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Poverello’s team in 2016. Photo: Poverello, Facebook.
June 7, 2017 • Volume 8 • Issue 23
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
Editorial
Poverello’s 30-year History is One of Challenges and Growth
Michael d’Oliveira
Art Director • Brendon Lies Artwork@sfgn.com Designer • Max Kagno Digital Content Director • Brittany Ferrendi Webmaster@sfgn.com Associate Editor • Jillian Melero JillianMelero@gmail.com Copyeditor • Kerri Covington Arts/Entertainment Editor • JW Arnold JW@prdconline.com Social Media Manager • Tucker Berardi TBerardi2014@fau.edu Food/Travel Editor • Rick Karlin Gazette News Editor • Michael d'Oliveira HIV Editor • Sean McShee Senior Photographer • J.R. Davis JRDavis12000@hotmail.com
Senior Features Correspondents
A
According to a Sun Sentinel article s Poverello turns 30 years old and gets ready to celebrate by holding its 30th published October 23, 1991, Poverello received Anniversary Open House, Sale & Party an eviction notice two weeks previous from on June 12, it’s a year that will see a return to the owner of Pompano Plaza, the shopping center where Poverello leased 10,000 square the organization’s roots – Pompano Beach. feet of space. In about four months, Collins told the Sun Sentinel Poverello expects to open a that he didn’t know why second thrift store [9,800 square “[Collins] Poverello was being asked to feet] in the Save-A-Lot shopping was not only leave. The organization had center at Powerline Road and a good relationship with its Atlantic Boulevard in Pompano a friend, neighbors. But he did know he Beach. he was my had to find a new home. Not Founded by Father Bill Collins long after that, he found it in the who died last month at the age mentor. He Shoppes of Wilton Manors in of 86, the organization was had a dream 15,000 square feet of storefront started with meals delivered to formerly occupied by the Piggly individuals with HIV/AIDS out and that Wiggly supermarket which of the back of Collins’ car. closed in 1988. Since then, Poverello has dream caught home would not helped feed and support on with me.” beButthea new last thing Poverello thousands of individuals, many scrambled to find. of whom had nowhere else to - Mario Rosario Just as many unfortunate turn for help. But although the individuals depend on the organization has grown – from its number of volunteers to its number of charity of Poverello, Poverello depends on clients to the size of its thrift store – it hasn’t the charity of donors and its volunteers to MEMBER keep its doors open. According to a 1997 always been easy. In October of 1991, Poverello, which focuses Sun Sentinel article, Poverello had to find on helping people with nowhere else to go, alternative sources of funding when it lost $300,000 in federal grants. “I’ve been begging had to find somewhere else to go. MEMBER
all over Hell’s Half Acre. I’ve become fluent in words I didn’t think I knew,” Collins told the Sun Sentinel. In 2000, Collins and Poverello faced another financial hardship when the organization lost one of its delivery trucks and $10,000 worth of food in a fire and was forced to borrow $28,000 to buy a new truck. In 2007, the Sun Sentinel also reported that Poverello was forced to temporarily stop receiving clients because of the loss of $100,000 in grants. Mario Rosario, Poverello’s thrift store and facilities manager, who started with Poverello as a truck driver in 1993, said there’s no secret to the organization’s success. “The great customers we have and the great people who are associated with this place are why we were able to pull through. I’ve been blessed and honored to be involved with Poverello. [Collins] was not only a friend, he was my mentor. He had a dream and that dream caught on with me.” Poverello’s anniversary celebration will be held from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. on June 12. There will be an open house with tours at the top of each hour, 50 percent off sale in the thrift store, lunch from 11:30 to 1 p.m., Italian dinner and happy hour from 5 to 7 p.m. For more information, visit poverello.org
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South Florida Gay News is published weekly. The opinions expressed in columns, stories, and letters to the editor do not represent the opinions of SFGN, or the Publisher. You should not presume the sexual orientation of individuals based on their names or pictorial representations. Furthermore the word “gay” in SFGN should be interpreted to be inclusive of the entire LGBT community. All of the material/columns that appears in print and online, including articles used in conjunction with the AP, is protected under federal copyright and intellectual property laws, and is jealously guarded by the newspaper. Nothing published may be reprinted in whole or part without getting written consent from the Publisher, at his law office, at Norm@NormKent.com. SFGN, as a private corporation, reserves the right to enforce its own standards regarding the suitability of advertising copy, illustrations and photographs. Copyright © 2017 South Florida Gay News.com, Inc.
sports football
NFL Teams Make History by Sponsoring LGBT Pride Event Brittany Ferrendi
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he Los Angeles Rams and the Los Angeles Chargers sponsored this weekend’s Venice Pride Event in Venice Beach, California. The Rams were the first NFL team in history to sponsor an LGBT pride event. “It opens a place for our community within the NFL,” Venice Pride Executive Director Grant Turck told the LA Times. “The ultimate message
is: inclusion wins. If you choose to be inclusive, that’s the more prosperous approach, not just for the LGBTQ community but for everybody.” Both teams sponsored a letter in the historic VENICE sign, which was lit up in rainbow colors in the name of equality. The Rams sponsored the blue lights in the letter C, while the Chargers will sponsor the letter N.
“We are proud to work with Venice Pride and to stand in alignment with the LGBT community that is such an important part of the fabric of Los Angeles,” LA Rams Vice President of Community Affairs Molly Higgins told PinkNews when the Rams announced their sponsorship in May. “Inclusion has always been a valued part of our organization and we see this as a unique way to publicly celebrate the diversity that makes this community so special.” The Rams drafted openly gay athlete Michael Sam in 2015 — currently the only openly gay NFL player in history. “Equity, diversity and inclusion are as fundamental to our organization as bumpand-run coverage, the three-step drop and gap technique,” said Kimberly Layton, vice president
of external affairs for corporate, community and governmental relations of the Chargers. “We could not be more excited to partner with Venice Pride and support our LGBTQ community.”
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NEWS state Volunteers with Polk Pride. Photo: Polk Pride, Facebook.
Pride in Polk
Conservative area PrideFest hopes to change hearts and minds Denise Royal
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t’s Pride Time in Polk County, with a full weekend of events planned from June 14 to June 17. The third annual gathering is happening in Lakeland, Florida, about 215 miles northwest of Fort Lauderdale. The events for Polk Pride include events for youth, events for people of all religious denominations, the pride festival and a pride closing party. All of the event times and locations are as follows, and they are subject to change: • Pride for Youth, June 14, 7 p.m., St David’s Episcopal Church • Pride in Faith, June 15, 7 p.m., Beacon Hill Fellowship • Fortune Feimster, June 16, 7 p.m., Lkld TV • Pride in the Park, June 17, 10 a.m., Munn Park • Pride after Dark June 17, 9 p.m., Lkld TV One of the weekend’s highlights is a performance by comedian Fortune Feimster. She’s the Southern comic who hails from North Carolina, most known for her work as a full-time performer and writer on E!’s hit show “Chelsea Lately,” and Hulu’s “The Mindy Project.” “If you’re a fan of hers, this is going to be a great opportunity to see her and a fun show,” said Polk Pride’s Dustin Shay. “Tickets are only $29.” Saturday is Polk Pride in the Park. There will be entertainment, food trucks, vendors, community organizations and familyfriendly activities. The event kicks off at 10 a.m. and offers something for the entire
family. It is a free community event and opened to the public. “This is a family-friendly event,” said Shay. “I know a lot of the Pride events throughout Florid—in Tampa, Orlando, Miami—are very adult occasions. Ours is family-oriented. It’s a very different vibe for people who have children.” Polk Pride is an event dedicated to the awareness and acceptance of the LGBT community in Polk County, Florida. “Polk County is not exactly a metropolis,” Shay said. “We sometimes have to go to Tampa or Orlando for LGBT events and activities. Being an LGBT person in Lakeland as a human is great. I love our community, including our LGBT community. One of the things we’re trying to do with this Pride event is show the entire area there are things the LGBT community can do here without having to go to other cities. That’s one of the goals we’re trying to accomplish.” Polk County is also a bit of a conservative area. “It’s probably a little more religious than other big Florida cities,” Shay said. “But we’ve actually received a lot of support for our LGBT events and community. Almost all the major cities in our county have issued Pride Proclamations for our week of pride, by vote of the city councils. We hope to get a proclamation from Polk County as well this year.” Polk Pride is hosted by a joint effort from the Lakeland Youth Alliance (LYA), and Parents, Family and Friends of Lesbians and Gays (PFLAG) of Polk County.
For more information, visit PolkPrideFL.com. 4
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NEWS local
Equality Rallies Planned for South Florida Fort Lauderdale and West Palm to hold events
Michael d’Oliveira
W
hen the South Florida Equality Rally for Unity and Pride in Fort Lauderdale was first announced, pro-LGBT, prowomen, and pro-human rights organizations in Palm Beach County planned on attending. Now, they have their own rally at West Palm Beach City Hall, 401 Clematis St., on Sunday, June 11 from 1 to 3 p.m. It’s just one of several rallies in Florida and many more across the nation and the world, including in Florida Naples, Fort Lauderdale, and Key West and elsewhere in New York, Boston, Australia, Ontario, and Zurich. The marches are planned to coincide with the national Equality March on Sunday, June 11 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. in Washington, D.C. Information on all rallies being organized can be found at EqualityMarch2017.org. Traveling from South Florida to D.C. will be some protesters and the “Sacred Cloth Project,” the world’s longest [1.25 miles] Rainbow Flag, sewn in Key West, which was created in 2003 by Gilbert Baker to commemorate the 25th anniversary of his creation of the first Rainbow Flag. After D.C., the flag will be brought back to Florida to be used in “Orlando United Day” on June 12 as part of the one-year observance of the Pulse Nightclub attack which occurred June 12, 2016. The flag is being delivered to the event by Hope Unity & Global Equality. “We needed something in Palm Beach County,” said Julie Seaver, center operations director at the LGBT Compass Community Center, one of the organizations involved in planning the West Palm Beach march. “The people want a march here in Palm Beach.” Other organizations include the Palm Beach County Human Rights Council, National Organization for Women, Planned Parenthood, MCC of the Palm Beaches, Lambda Legal Palm
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Beach, and the ACLU. The goal, said Seaver, was to include as many organizations possible, including religious groups. “This is a march for unity and pride for all social justice causes. It’s not an anti-Trump rally but we do have to recognize that Trump is in our backyard,” said Seaver, referring to Trump’s winter White House at Mar-a-Lago. “West Palm Beach has been at the forefront, not just of LGBT rights but of social justice rights. It makes perfect sense [to have it there].” Marianne Baker isn’t gay but she wants to support her friends in the LGBT community by marching. She’s also afraid that federal resources for individuals like herself, who are HIV positive, will shrink under Trump. “I’m surrounded with it all the time and I’m sick and tired of seeing the unfair way that people are treated, especially with someone like Trump coming in now,” said Baker, who lives in Lake Worth. “Considering the way he is trying to gut the Affordable Healthcare Act... I think I’m scared of what he’s going to take away.” Seaver said multiple locations were considered for the march but didn’t work out for various reasons. Luckily, she said, the City of West Palm Beach provided the public plaza at city hall for free and without the need for permits, which made organizing the event virtually free of cost. Unfortunately for the Equality Rally in Fort Lauderdale, held on Sunday, June 11 from 4 to 6 p.m. at Huizenga Plaza, 1 E Las Olas Blvd., fundraising is a necessity. To help pay for police officers to provide security and to control the crowd, rent the facility, pay for insurance, and other expenses, a GoFundMe page has been set up – GoFundMe.com/EqualityRallyFTL. As of June 5, $4,925 of the $10,000 goal has been raised.
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NEWS national Gilbert Baker.
Gilbert Baker to Be Honored on Flag Day Celebrations will be held in San Fran and NYC
Denise Royal
Y
ou may not know Gilbert Baker’s name, but you definitely know his creations. In 1978, Baker sewed together eight pieces of vibrant colors to create the iconic rainbow flag—an enduring symbol of gay pride. Baker passed away at his home in New York City on March 31st. He was 65 years old. To celebrate his life and legacy, Baker’s friends and associates are planning two memorial events–one in New York City, the other in San Francisco. Baker’s mother and sister wanted them held on June 14th, Flag Day. “Gilbert loved Flag Day so much, it was as important to him as Gay Pride Day,” said Baker’s longtime friend Charley Beal. Shortly after his death, Baker’s friends decided his service shouldn’t be a somber memorial in a church. “Instead, we decided on a rally and march because Gilbert was a street activist, not a country club activist.” Baker was also a visionary. His rainbow flag was unfurled at a time when the gay rights movement was thriving in New York City and San Francisco. Both cities will honor him. The New York memorial takes place on Flag Day. A celebration of Baker’s life is planned for Thurs., June 8 at 7 p.m. at the Castro Theatre. The event is free and open to the public. The celebration includes a multimedia celebration of all stages of Baker’s life and work, including music, visual art, video, film and photography. Baker’s flag was unveiled at a time when the gay rights movement was thriving in New York City and San Francisco. He called both cities home at different times in his life, when he was busy marching, demonstrating and creating. “Gilbert created art every day,” Beal said. His original rainbow flag had eight colors, each stripe carrying its own significance: pink
for sex, red for life, orange for healing, yellow for sun, green for nature, turquoise for magic, blue for peace and purple for spirit. Pink was later removed and turquoise and blue were combined into one color, royal blue. Since its introduction, the rainbow flag has become a universal symbol for peace and love. It is the symbol for LGBT rights. After the United States Supreme Court legalized gay marriage in 2015, more than 26 million people on Facebook changed their profile photos to include the flag, created by Baker. Wilton Manors is one town of many nowadays where the rainbow flag is ubiquitous. Beal said after Stonewall 25, in 1994, Baker would become annoyed seeing the rainbow flag as a series of tchotchkes, but his feelings eventually changed. “I think within a few years, he had a 180 degree turnaround and he grew to embrace it all,” Beal said. “Gilbert came to realize how important it was and how this thing he created had gotten much bigger than him. Whether it was on the White House, Eiffel Tower, a coffee mug or keychain, he came to love it all and it was a great compliment to him.” Shortly before his passing, Baker had finished creating 39 nine-color flags — the eight original colors, plus lavender to represent diversity — to commemorate the 39th anniversary of the first rainbow flag. The June 14 memorial for Baker in New York City begins at 6 p.m. at the Stonewall Inn on Christopher Street and continues to the Christopher Street Pier. They will raise a Rainbow Flag and call for a rededication to progressive and radical activism, completing the tribute at 9 p.m. Members of Baker’s family, as well as other LGBT activists, will be speaking.
More information about both events can be found at Facebook.com/gilbertbakermemorial For people who cannot attend the events in San Francisco or New York, Beal hopes that people all over the world will wear or raise a rainbow flag in Baker’s honor. You can read more about Baker and his work at GilbertBaker.com
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news local
SFGN’S OutSocial gathering in May. Photo: J.R. Davis.
SFGN Launches Mixer The networking event, OutSocial, will be held monthly
Michael d’Oliveira
M
ost of the networking events Rob Bullock attends are very specific in who they’re tailored for. That’s why Bullock said he goes to SFGN’s OutSocial.club Monthly Networking Mixer. Bullock, director of development for Broward House, said OutSocial.club provides an opportunity to network with a wide variety of individuals. Most of the networking events he’s been to are for a specific non-profit or are businessorientated. “It’s got a much wider appeal.” He compared it to the former Mack Mixer. “I’m glad to see SFGN pick up the ball. I think it’s important to bring people together.” Marcia Chaves Tyndall, owner of Lirios Massage, said OutSocial.club is more laid back than other chamber and networking events she attends. “I’ve met a lot of people that I’ve never seen before . . . Just come, relax, and meet somebody.” Mike Trottier, director of sales and marketing, said the purpose of OutSocial. club, which is held every third or fourth Thursday of the month at different locations,
is to “try and bring our advertisers together with our readers.” There is no cost to attend. The first one was held in April at Bull Market in Fort Lauderdale. The May event was held at Rumors Bar & Grill in Wilton Manors. It’s also an opportunity for each host restaurant or bar to network through its culinary offerings. “We try to showcase their food,” said Trottier. “This is always an opportunity . . . it lets people come in here and try new things,” said Robyn Almodovar, chef at Rumors. Almodovar, who owns the food truck Palate Party, has won the Food Network’s “Chopped” and “Cutthroat Kitchen” reality TV shows and was a finalist on Fox’s “Hell’s Kitchen.” Almodovar, who donated appetizers for OutSocial.club, also considers it part of her goal of giving back to the community and supporting events that bring people together. “I always want to make sure I put something positive out there.”
event will be The next OutSocial.club
Thursday, June 22 from 5:30 to 8 p.m. at use, Himmarshee Public Ho 201 SW 2 St., Fort Lauderdale.
For more information, visit OutSocial.club on Facebook or OutSocial.club.
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Convictions
Publisher's Editorial
The Pulse of Our Lives
Norm Kent
norm.kent@sfgn.com Photo Credit: Jason Parsley.
T
hey were mostly gay kids dancing in suspected that events and hatred in the a nightclub, and their dreams, their Mideast would shorten their lives or shape futures, and their lives were snuffed their destinies. But then neither did the out in an instant. thousands who went to work in the World They will never know why and most not Trade Center on September, 11, 2001. Our even how. challenges come without It has been a year- a year warning. next Monday, and there are We would all prefer to You don’t still not adequate words to have a bolder purpose. We have to make explain the Pulse massacre. would prefer to spend our There never will be. In this headlines. days working for good rather world of ours, some things than fighting against bad. You just never make sense. But that’s our challenge. have to make There is beauty and We have to get out of bed brutality; temperance and each day and still care. And headway. terror, long life and sudden we have to act, within our Do your death. There is inequality capacity, to seek a newer part locally and injustice everywhere, world. but we wake each day with We don’t live in a peaceful and save hope and optimism. There world. We live in a fearful the world is no other way. Those of us one. We live in an era where globally. whose lives have trespassed balance and order are decades live daily with this threatened. Random acts of harsh reality. violence and terror influence Still, kids who grew up playing soccer our lives and shake our foundations. Push in Kissimmee could not have reasonably yourself out of bed anyway. There are many
wrongs to right. You can’t change it all, but you can still make a difference, somewhere and in some small way. Tomorrow may be beyond your vision, but it is not beyond your control. You don’t have to make headlines. You just have to make headway. Do your part locally and save the world globally. Help a friend. Rescue a pet. Save your planet. Protect the environment. Eat healthy. Grow your own. Laugh when others want to make you cry. Defy the status quo. This Sunday, a community of your peers will celebrate LGBT rights by marching for equality in Washington, D.C. Locally, organizers are presenting a rally in Fort Lauderdale at Huizenga Park on East Las Olas Boulevard from 4 to 6 p.m. Representing a cross section of activists from many perspectives, it’s an opportunity to attend a gathering of people who won’t give up; who still care enough to care about the world around us. Attend the rally and you will hear the Gay Men’s Chorus on one hand, but from women too, and a host of people who believe
Earthlings need to have regard for our planet. You see, that’s why people still bother. In the face of death and evil, there are people who still choose life and inspiration. It comes in small steps, supporting cancer clinics or AIDS walks, volunteering in a hospice or coaching a little league team. You have to go to bat somewhere. Why not make a hit in your hometown? In a world that is too violent, find virtue in fulfilling your dreams. Spread love without limitation, decency without discrimination and righteousness without indignation. It’s a message not just for gay pride, but for your heart, your soul, and your life. Yes, building a sand castle on the beach can take all day. One wave can wash it away. Build it anyway. Besides, you can put it on Facebook forever. Create your forevers by each and every thing you do everyday. No matter how senseless the world seems, from London to Orlando, while you are here, enjoy the ride, buck the tide, and make your own waves. The future may be measured in short moments or by long stretches. Make today matter.
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One Year Later The cover of "Love Is Love." Submitted photo.
‘Love is Love’ Comic Benefits Pulse Victims One Year Later Brittany Ferrendi
I
mmediately after the mass-shooting at the Pulse nightclub in Orlando, the comic book industry came together to raise money for victims. One year later, their work raised over $200,000 — and growing. “The morning after it happened, I felt horrible about what I saw. So I just posted on Facebook that as the comics community we should do something, we should do a fundraiser and I’ll organize it,” said Marc Andreyko, “Love is Love” comic anthology creator. “It was sort of a reflexive reaction. So many people said they wanted to be in it. The Tuesday after it happened, we had DC comics and IDW on board. Six months later we have New York Time’s best-selling book and we raised a ton of money.” Andreyko joined together with some of the biggest names in comics, like writer/ illustrator George Perez and comic artist Cat Staggs, to contribute to the 144-page - Marc “Love is Love” anthology in December of last year. It was created as a joint effort between DC Comics and IDW Publishing — known for publishing big-name titles including Star Trek and Doctor Who. Writers, artists and creators from around the globe created the comic book to celebrate love and honor the victims, survivors and their families.
All proceeds from the anthology go to Equality Florida, an organization that focuses on bringing equality and justice to Florida’s LGBT community. “The book has taken a life of its own and every penny generated will go towards different LGBT charities over the years,” he said. According to Andreyko, a new charity will be designated every year following the fifth printing of the book. The next will be The Trevor Project, “a hotline for LGBT adolescents who may not have an outlet to help them,” as he explained. Since the comic’s launch last year, survivors and victims’ families have approached Andreyko to thank him for his contributions. “It’s kind of overwhelming to hear from parents who have lost children Andreyko or from people who have lost siblings. Having them thank me feels … I don’t know how to respond because of the losses they have suffered. I did this as an instinctive reaction. To be able to have given people who suffered horrifying awful losses any sort of modicum of piece of peace, even if it’s momentary from this book, is a real privilege.”
“Living your life, having a life and contributing positively is the best way to honor your loved one.”
For those dealing with the tragedy one year later, Andreyko offered some advice. “This first anniversary is going to be the toughest for a lot of the people who were affected by it,” he said. “When you come to the first anniversary you realize over the past year there were a couple of days that you didn’t think about the horror and then you feel guilty. There were days that you didn’t think about it and that becomes really hard to deal with because you feel like you might be starting to forget about the person you lost and that’s a natural reaction.” He hopes that people dealing with the tragedy will realize that they are allowed to have days of peace. “Living your life, having a life and contributing positively is the best way to honor your loved one. None of us would want anyone we love to feel horrible pain for the rest of their lives. We don’t want to be remembered that way … You honor them more by celebrating life than being paralyzed by your grief.” As for the future of the book, Andreyko has plans to expand globally for its fifth anniversary. “We have some foreign publishers who are interested in doing editions of the book with additional pages from their local artists for money towards LGBT charities in those countries,” he said. “We’re planning for the fifth anniversary on doing a special edition with every single piece in one collection for the first time.”
The anthology is sold on IDW’s website at IDWPublishing.com/product/loveislove. The digital version contains 20 bonus pages that were not included in the original printing. The book is also available on Amazon and at comic book stores around the country. 16
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One Year Later
A Year After Pulse, Activists Launch
#HonorThemWithAction Michael d’Oliveira
I
t’s a social media campaign designed to inspire people to do more than just use social media. Equality Florida has launched #HonorThemWithAction to mark the date, June 12, 2016, that has passed since the LGBT night club Pulse was attacked on “Latin Night” and 49 people from the LGBT and Latinx communities were murdered. “In the days that followed the Pulse massacre, shock and disbelief turned to grief and anger,” stated Nadine Smith, executive director for Equality Florida, in a press release. “At a moment when some sought to meet fear with fear and hate with hate, we saw a community pull together across difference and unite in a commitment to challenge bigotry and hatred, not nourish it. #HonorThemWithAction is a reminder and a pledge to uproot hatred and bigotry of all kinds and make the world a different, better, and more equal for all of us.” Campaign organizers want individuals and organizations to take action to support the LGBT community, such as attending a rally or vigil, and volunteering. For those who can’t take action, organizers want individuals to use #HonorThemWithAction in social media posts to raise awareness about anti-LGBT hate crimes and bigotry. “The Pulse massacre was a shooting in a popular gay nightclub on Latin night in the middle of pride month, and the victims
were overwhelmingly LGBTQ and Latinx young people,” stated Hannah Willard, public policy director with Equality Florida, in a press release. “We have to name the communities that were attacked and we must ensure the lasting memorial is the real change of uprooting anti-LGBTQ hatred, discrimination, and violence in our culture.” The social media campaign is already being used across the country to highlight LGBT events and causes. On Facebook, Benjamin Newbern, executive director of Equality Project of the Shoals, an Alabama-based organization that provides community resources for the LGBT community, posted about the June 11 Equality March to commemorate Pulse. “On June 11, we march! This event will also mark the one-year anniversary of the #Pulse tragedy in #Orlando. #Equality #EqualityMarch #HonorThemWithAction.” “As we draw near to the one year mark of the Pulse Nightclub tragedy in Orlando, FL., San Angelo PRIDE invites you to join us in a candlelight vigil on June 12, 2017 at 8pm at the Lone Wolf Bridge. Once the vigil has concluded, please stay and watch as the bridge will be illuminated in the rainbow colors and remain lit for 2 nights in memory of those lives who were lost… #HonorThemWithAction #WeRemember #UnitedWithOrlando,” wrote Deric Valdez, from West Texas, on Facebook.
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One Year Later
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More Than $30 Million Raised After Pulse
Jason Parsley
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lmost $2 million was raised in one day after ($100,000); Darden Restaurants ($500,000); and Mears the Pulse shooting from a GoFundMe page, ($50,000). becoming the site’s fastest Another fund, Pulse of Orlando, was growing campaign in its history. created to provide some immediate “The campaign shattered all GoFundMe help to victims including employees “Central Florida records raising $9,5 million from over of the nightclub, who were suddenly Foundation 100,000 donors from more than 100 out of a job. The OneOrlando, for countries, and every penny, even the instance, wasn’t meant to provide continues to interest earned on the funds was given to immediate financial aid. assess the needs victims,” said Stratton Pollitzer, deputy The Pulse of Orlando fund was director of Equality Florida. created by the owner of the Pulse and gaps in our Equality Florida set up the page just nightclub, Barbara Poma, and community one hours after the shooting. eventually raised $325,000 before year after the The campaign would go on to raise shutting down. $9.5 million before being merged with Today there are only 3 major funds Pulse tragedy.” the OneOrlando Fund that the Mayor of left that are collecting money in the Orlando Buddy Dyer launched after the name of Pulse. - Rachel Calderon shooting. The LGBT community center of The onePulseFoundation is raising Central Florida Orlando raised $750,000 before it merged money to fund a memorial at the site Foundation with OneOrlando as well. of the nightclub. Spokesperson In total the OneOrlando fund would The Contigo Fund supports the go on to disburse $31,665,931. The underdeveloped non-profit structure major contributors included the Walt Disney Company in Central Florida that would be charged with healing ($1,000,000); The Orlando Magic ($100,000); JetBlue the intersection of communities most affected by the
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shooting - LGBT and Latinx. This fund was brought together by the Arcus Foundation, who selected Our Fund in Fort Lauderdale to manage the money. So far they’ve raised $1.5 million. Lastly the Better Together fund, launched by the Central Florida Foundation, will support four areas: gaps in the support nonprofits are providing to survivors and families; LGBTQ, Latino, faith and other affected communities; Underlying causes of the tragedy; and other needs that cannot be anticipated. So far they’ve raised $1.1 million. Some recent grants they’ve given out include $30,000 to Equality Florida to hire a Central Florida Safe and Healthy Schools Coordinator and $25,000 to provide educational scholarships. “Central Florida Foundation continues to assess the needs and gaps in our community one year after the Pulse tragedy. The Better Together Fund has worked to improve the local mental health care system, strengthen the LGBTQ, Latino, and faith communities, among other investments, to build a resilient community,” spokesperson Rachel Calderon. “The Foundation is committed to supporting our community in the longterm healing process.”
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One Year Later x Sit-In for the 49 was organized by a diverse group of activists in Orlando to honor the 49 people killed in the Pulse shooting.
Patti Brigham, the co-founder of the Florida Coalition Against Gun Violence, right, participated in a round table discussion in Tampa with Congresswoman Gabrielle Giffords, left, about gun violence in Florida.
Photos courtesy of the Florida Coalition Against Gun Violence.
Florida LGBT Community Embraces Gun Control Legislation After Pulse Christiana Lilly
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une 12, 2016 -- a night that the LGBT community will never forget, a night that the lives of 49 people partying at Pulse nightclub in Orlando were ended. The community sprung into action, creating GoFundMe pages to raise money for the victims’ families and survivors of the shooting, and others got to work on legislation. This included the League of Women Voters of Florida, which had been active in gun control activism. Patti Brigham, the first vice president of the league, became the co-chair of the Florida Coalition to Prevent Gun Violence. Within days, 40 groups in Florida joined the coalition and today there are more than 125 nonpartisan groups listed as members. A handful of LGBT organizations have signed up as partners including Key West Business Guild, The Pride Center, Pridelines, and SunServe, “You never think it’s going to happen in your own hometown, even though you know it can. So when it did, I think just like many people, I was in a state of shock and devastated,” Brigham said. “When the Pulse shooting occurred, we knew it was time to widen what we were doing and start going on the offensive.” Equality Florida is another LGBT group to join the coalition in a stance against gun violence. “Even before the police reports arrive, even before a suspect is apprehended, when these mass shootings — these tragedies — happen, almost inevitably it is an angry young man of whatever ideology, whatever religious stripe
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with access to weapons of mass slaughter,” said Nadine Smith, the co-founder and CEO of Equality Florida. “We understand that hate violence disproportionately impacts the LGBT community and that access to rational gun laws are a part of addressing the carnage that has become far too normalized.” According to Mass Shooting Tracker, which uses crowdsourced information, Florida had the most mass shootings in the country last year, with 92 killed and 194 wounded. This year, the Sunshine State is on track to lead the charts again. “Mass shooting” was defined as four or more gunshot victims in a single incident. Kicking off 2017, five people were killed by a shooter at the Fort Lauderdale airport. Ten days later eight were
“You never think it’s going to happen in your own hometown, even though you know it can.” - Patti Brigham
Vice president, league of women voters of Florida
wounded at a Martin Luther King Day event in Miami. The coalition does not want to allow college students to be able to bring guns on campus because of the high suicide rates among the age group and students are “often away from home for the first time experiencing drugs and alcohol.” The group also doesn’t want open-carry laws in the state “that’s economically dependent on tourism to allow people to walk around public places with firearms exposed.” “That’s not something that really fits into a ‘family friendly environment,’” she said. The coalition has had backlash from groups who want more lax laws for gun owners, including the National Rifle Association, Florida Carry, and Students For Concealed Carry. “We’re not surprised. I mean their agenda is really guns everywhere, that is not our agenda,” Brigham said. “We certainly don’t want to take anyone’s guns. We believe in responsible gun ownership.” Smith agrees. “I’m from the rural south. I grew up with folks who drove to school with a hunting rifle in the back of the truck,” she said. “It’s about having gun laws that recognize that the Second Amendment is not about unfettered access at all times under all circumstances to military style weapons capable of mass destruction, and it is irrational to behave as though any commonsense regulation on which weapons
One Year Later and where they can be had is tantamount to taking away guns from anyone under any circumstance.” The Florida legislature has also been divided on gun laws. This past legislative session, 27 gun-related bills were introduced, 11 of which were from Republican State Sen. Greg Steube. He managed to get one through, but was blocked by fellow Republican, State Sen. Anitere Flores in the Florida Judiciary Committee, the first stop for the gun laws. She said outright that she would not vote for any of the other 10 bills Steube put forward, and her down vote essentially killed the bills’ chances to advance. “He and I do not see eye-to-eye on probably any of the other gun bills,” said Flores, according to the Herald-Tribune. “I do not support having guns on campus, I do not support having guns in airports, I do not support having guns in school zones. I don’t support those things and Sen. Steube feels differently and that’s fine but this is where we are this year.” The coalition was thrilled by the unlikely ally.
“She proved to be very courageous standing up to the gun lobby and to Sen. Steube,” Brigham said. “Of course we’re not happy that our bills weren’t heard, but we’re bringing them back next session…and feeling good that the bad bills were once again defeated.” Some of the bills that wanted to make gun laws stricter included increasing penalties for shooters that had more than one magazine on them, ending the “gun-show loophole,” allowing the FDLE to ask gun buyers about their criminal history, and adding a requirement for mental health screenings for those wanting a concealed carry license. Even though the session wasn’t a roaring success for the coalition and its supporters, Smith of Equality Florida says the LGBT community isn’t deterred. “One of the things about the LGBT movement is that we have to take the long view,” she said. “We organized in a state where Anita Bryant put hate on the map, so we’ve always had to believe that educating people, telling our stories has an impact short term and long term.”
Quotes From Community Leaders Here at the Key West Business Guild it’s our mission to market Key West to the LGBT community and part of that marking is to show it’s a safe community, so it goes hand in hand there, trying to do whatever we can do to end this gun violence. As we approach the year anniversary of Pulse it’s a shame not much has been done yet.
– Matt Hon, executive director of the Key West Business Guild Equality Park is a weapons-free campus. The Center supports a wide array of public health and prevention approaches to protect and enhance the lives of our community members. One year ago, LGBTQ plus individuals were targeted and murdered at Pulse nightclub on Latin night during pride month in the deadliest mass shooting by a single gunman in U.S. history. We have a responsibility as a community center to work towards ensuring welcoming, safe, inclusive spaces for our community. This isn’t about politics. It’s about common sense steps to end gun deaths and save lives in our community.
– Kristofer Fegenbush, COO of The Pride Center at Equality Park “We want responsible gun laws to keep everyone safe.”
– Mark Ketcham, Executive Director of SunServe
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One Year Later
‘Because A Madman Had
Hate In His Heart’ After the Pulse shooting the LGBT community became ground zero in Orlando. Meet, Terry DeCarlo, the man who runs The Center.
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Terry DeCarlo. Submitted photo.
John McDonald
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n October of 2014, Terry DeCarlo started work as Executive Director of the GLBT Center in Orlando. Two years later, DeCarlo found himself in the middle of one of the worst tragedies in American history. DeCarlo, 53, is a married gay man, New York native and U.S. Air Force veteran. He took time out of his incredibly busy schedule to answer seven questions from the South Florida Gay News on the eve of the one year remembrance of the Pulse Nightclub Massacre. 1. What life experiences prepared you for that moment? There is nothing in the world that could have prepared us for this tragedy. I was in the military, you are trained to deal with certain situations, to deal with conflict, but even that could not have prepared me for what happened here in Orlando, plus the onslaught of events and the outpouring of love from around the world that followed. 2. What advice would you give the next guy that faces it? Stay calm, think things through (as hard as that sounds because things are happening so fast and your head is spinning), and make sure you are getting the correct information from higher ups including Mayors, Chiefs of Police, and Sheriff’s in order to disseminate. The public will want to see a familiar and friendly face giving them information and you need to make sure the information you are giving out is correct. On The Center side, have a team you can rely on and trust, you are going to be pulled in a million different directions and the ability to delegate down to, hopefully, make sure nothing falls through the cracks is crucial. The community is looking to you for leadership, and you will need a good team to make that happen and free you up to do what you need to do.
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3. How has dealing with this changed you? The Pulse tragedy completely changed my life, my way of thinking, and my overall outlook on things. I find myself, when we do go out, not venturing more than 10-20 feet away from a door when inside a club, I find myself always needing to know who is around, I scan the room, I look for security, I look for exits, I jump when a glass is dropped, but on another more positive note, I have learned to not take things so seriously, to make more time for my family, and one of the most important lessons I learned, and this goes for everyone, never, ever forget to tell your friends and/or loved ones how much they mean to you and never leave the house without saying I love you because you never know what might happen in an instant. 4. Who alerted you to this tragedy and who did you turn to for moral support? Our phones started going off immediately a little after the shooting began, they wouldn’t stop. We, Bill and I, got right down to the club where we were met by the police who escorted our car to an area about 3 blocks from the site. Bill, my husband of 21 years, was my rock, my savior, my confidant, and the person who was there to pick me up when I would turn to jello and just want to sit and cry. He is an incredible person and my love for him is endless. Patty Sheehan, our Orlando City Commissioner was another rock, we did so much work together that week that I now consider her my work wife, we held each other up and were able to cry together but at the same time get some amazing things done quickly, add to these two individuals to the many community members, center executive directors, and people from around the world who flooded my cell
phone with messages of love and support that it truly was overwhelming, but such a heartwarming feeling to know help and guidance would just be a phone call away from so many. 5. Did you feel let down and/or disappointed in the government’s response? I don’t think I felt let down or disappointed, I felt angry at times because of all the red tape that things needed to go through. That being said, I know there are procedures and they must be followed, but in the time of a crisis situation like this, you want things to be able to happen at the drop of a hat and when that doesn’t happen you feel angry, but that dissipates quickly when you take a second, calm down and really think about it.
6. Why did this happen? Eight little words “Because a madman had hate in his heart” 7. How can we make sure it never happens again? We cannot….this is going to happen again, I wish I had a crystal ball so I could tell you where and when, but I don’t which is why we all need to be aware of our surroundings and if you hear something, say something. You never know if something you hear might be the catalyst to stopping [something] significant like this from happening. But again, this is going to happen again, which is why I reiterate my point above, let your loved ones and friends know how much you care about them and remember to say I love you. You never know when something might happen in an instant.
One Year Later GLAAD, Facebook.
Legislature passes Pulse Remembrance Day resolution Michael d’Oliveira
T
he passage of the Pulse Remembrance Day resolution in the Florida legislature is mostly a symbolic victory. But the author of the resolution, HR 8077, Rep. Carlos Guillermo Smith, considers it a victory nonetheless. “It’s more symbolic than anything. I was a little surprised that there was not any pushback because the makeup of the legislature is very conservative. It was unanimous and it was approved by the Republican leadership. I am so proud.” In the House, resolutions pass when no one objects to them. Although the resolution was symbolic, Smith called it “a promising sign” in regard to how conservative and republican legislatures view the LGBT community. Passed on April 27, the resolution marks June 12, the oneyear anniversary of the attack which killed 49 people at the LGBT Pulse nightclub in Orlando. Along with the impact on the LGBT community, the resolution highlights the fact that the attack happened on “Latin Night” and impacted that community as well. “The attack at Pulse nightclub has been recognized as the deadliest mass shooting by a single individual, the most lethal incident of violence against the LGBTQ+ community in United States history and the largest terrorist attack in the country since 9/11,” reads a portion of the bill. Smith, a Democrat who represents Orlando and is one of only two openly-gay Florida legislators, said he wanted to make sure the resolution directly addressed who was targeted that night. “It’s important that we documented what happened . . . but in a
way that did not rewrite history. This is not just an act of terror. It’s the worst hate crime in the history of the LGBT community. It’s important to acknowledge that in a way that future generations could understand.” Terry DeCarlo, executive director of the GLBT Community Center of Central Florida, said he hopes Smith’s resolution is the start of something that will eventually become a national day of remembrance. “It started here and let’s hope it goes on further,” said DeCarlo. Smith invited others to take up the mantle and build on what he’s done. “There’s an opportunity to bring this to Congress, so I would encourage people to do that. But the most important thing is to stand in solidarity with each other. People are still struggling to rebuild their lives,” said Smith. There are also other issues that need to be addressed, according to Smith. One of them is getting more LGBT individuals elected to the legislature. “It’s frustrating. The LGBT community is underrepresented in the legislature. We need more diversity.” For his efforts in the legislature, Smith was named as one of the “winners” of the 2017 Legislative Session by FloridaPolitics.com. The website lauded Smith and said “he regularly took to the floor to ask members smart questions about their bills, continues to fight for the survivors of the 2016 attack at the Pulse nightclub, and was key to forming the Legislative Progressive Caucus. There’s a reason he was selected as one of INFLUENCE Magazine’s “freshmen to watch,” and we expect this could be just the beginning of big things to come.” 6.7.2017 •
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One Year Later Photo: Gays Against Guns New Jersey, Facebook.
GAYS Against GUNS How the Pulse tragedy launched a new movement Dori Zinn
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hat started out as a Facebook discussion morphed into an entire movement. Last Summer, as Kevin Hertzog and his friends were mourning the Pulse shooting in Orlando, it was a simple conversation that kicked off what would eventually become Gays Against Guns, or GAG. “A friend [on Facebook] had said, ‘this is awful’ and I said, ‘we should do something about this,’” Hertzog, 52, said. His friend, Brian Worth, jumped into the conversation. “Brian said, ‘we should get together,’” and then, they just did. “I just felt very upset and I could tell other people did as well,” Hertzog said of the Pulse nightclub shootings on June 12, 2016 — the deadliest mass shooting in U.S. history. “It didn’t seem appropriate to me to just change my profile picture, wait a week, and move on. There was such a profound injustice in play that it demanded more attention.” GAG started the day after the Pulse shooting in an effort to not only bring awareness to the violence against the LGBT community, but also prevent it from happening again. “Rallies weren’t enough from politicians,” Hertzog said. “We needed a community response. [Pulse] happened, we can’t change that, but what can we do to make sure it doesn’t happen again?”
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Gays Against Guns is direct action activism. Communications Manager Terry Roethlein said there are other gun prevention groups that are doing great work trying to change legislation, but their angle is a little bit more upfront. “’Direct action is when we went right up to the doorstep of the organization that we are shaming,” Roethlein said. “Last Summer we went to BlackRock’s office in midtown and held a major demonstration outside their office by holding a die-in, then went inside, chanted and disrupted them.” The Guardian reported last summer that BlackRock, an
“In this environment with an NRA president, it will be difficult but we will keep on pushing.” - Terry Roethlein
Communications ManaGER
investment firm based in New York City, has the largest share of corporate shareholders of gun companies’ stocks. The die-in and other direct action activism is meant to disrupt daily business as much as possible to showcase the real harm being done by these companies. “We’re continuing to apply pressure,” Roethlein said. “In this environment with an NRA president, it will be difficult but we will keep on pushing.” The National Rifle Association put more than $50 million toward political races in the 2016 election, the Center for Responsive Politics reported in November. President Donald Trump alone was more than $30 million of that investment. Direct action means being loud and somewhat confrontational. Roethlein said they haven’t broken the law or done anything illegal, but “it’s on our menu as a possibility.” “We’re not afraid to be out there, flashy, eye-catching,” Roethlein said. “We bring a visual, gay sensibility. We want to get [people] interested in our cause.” Sometimes at demonstrations, there will be 49 people dressed in white, wearing white veils, holding plaques with names on them to represent each of the 49 people who died in the Pulse shooting. “Most actions we do have human beings with us,” he said. “It shows people actual people who are dead from
One Year Later “[Pulse] happened, we can’t change that, but what can we do to make sure it doesn’t happen again?” - Kevin Hertzog Founder
the terrible gun laws in this country.” One of the biggest success stories was helping to unseat Kelly Ayotte, a former New Hampshire Republican senator. GAG went to her office in October, wearing white costumes and carrying signs that read “first she voted, then she lied, Kelly is guilty of homicide.” Ayotte lost her re-election bid for the Senate in November, and Roethlein believed GAG had a big part in that. Last Summer, the group protested and shut down two different Reebok locations in New York City over the judgment to award Glock handguns as prizes in the CrossFit games. Reebok, the title sponsor of the games, holds CrossFit classes. The Games took down the mention of Glocks as prizes on their website, but Roethlein is anxious to see if they keep the prizes for this year. With direct action activism comes the very real prospect of direct confrontation. So has the group ever experienced pushback or violence from their work? At a rally in Washington D.C. last Summer, the group partnered with the American Federation of Teachers and National Action Network for a march from the Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial to the Lincoln Memorial — both were victims of gun violence. At the
end of the march at the Lincoln Memorial, GAG did a die-in. Some people weren’t happy with the group’s demonstrations. “One Iraq veteran was open about disagreement [with us],” Roethlein said. “There are a lot of people in America [who] agree with him, that the best protection against gun violence was having a gun themselves.” The roughly 100 active members in New York City meet every other week to plan events, programs, and yes, more die-ins. There are some other chapters — in New Jersey, Washington D.C., Massachusetts — but New York is the central hub for GAG. There’s been some interest, in cities like Baltimore, Minnesota, and Austin, but those aren’t as active as some of the others. There’s no restriction to join and it’s free to be members. They make some money from organizations that have donated, but for the most part, people donate their time and materials when they can. Regardless of who is on hand to help, the goal is always the same. “We want universal background checks, a federal ban of assault weapons, and to drastically decrease the amount of violence that people of color and marginalized groups are experiencing every year from gun violence,” Roethlein said.
Kevin Hertzog joins others in GAG New Jersey to remind new gun owners of the lives lost during the Pulse shooting. Facebook. 6.7.2017 •
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One Year Later
Pulse Points
On June 1, The World OutGames featured an "experiential memorial" to celebrate LIFE, EQUALITY and COMPASSION. It featured 49 artists to remember the 49 victims of the pulse massacre. Performances ranged from poetry to song. Photos by Carina Mask
Orlando Gay Chorus.
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One Year Later
Poetry performance by Curt Chambers.
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One Year Later
Portraits Pay Tribute to
Pulse Nightclub Shooting Victims “Jason Benjamin Josaphat”
“Amanda Alvear” Kaci Beeler, gouache on paper, Austin, TX, 2016.
“ Luis Omar Ocasio-Capo” Rob Hessler, pen and marker on bristol, Savannah, GA, 2016.
Lauren Pallota, gouache and charcoal on paper, Atlanta, GA, 2016.
Denise Royal
A
s the first anniversary of the Pulse Nightclub shooting in Orlando approaches, there is a new memorial paying tribute to the massacre’s victims. The 49 Portraits Project was created out of a need to respond in a meaningful, respectful and loving way to the tragic events at the LGBT Pulse nightclub on June 12, 2016. The 49 Portraits Project is made up of a group of 49 artists across the country who created portraits to honor the deceased Pulse nightclub victims and to give as gifts to their families. All 49 portraits will be on view at Orlando City Hall’s Terrace Gallery until June 14. “We’ve had such a great response thus far from the Orlando community, City of Orlando officials and beyond,” said Francesca Ascione,
Marketing & Graphic Design Coordinator of The Mennello Museum of American Art & Public Art. “The exhibition is incredibly moving and beautifully installed.” The project was started by Georgia art professor Mia Merlin, who was inspired by a similar portrait project for the families of the nine victims of the June 2015 shootings at the Emanuel African Methodist Episcopal Church in Charleston, South Carolina. Merlin shared her impassioned vision for the “49 Portraits Project” in a Facebook prompt. Word quickly spread and artists from all over the country expressed interest in participating. “As an artist, the ability to make a portrait for someone is one of the most clear and powerful ways I have to give. I knew that other artists would feel the same way,” Merlin
said in a press release. “And the portraits offer that same gift to all viewers, to see more fully and to feel more acutely what a life means. The portraits allow us to see each life shine, to process loss, and maybe over time to start to heal. For the families, I hope that the portraits help them feel connected to their loved ones. But the portraits also allow for the living to connect with each other here and now. This connection has happened between the project artists, between the artists and the families, and with the help of this exhibit, it will extend out into the community and world. These portraits transcend politics, and strip away everything but what is essential. Each of us is so grateful to be able to make this offering, and to have it received by each of you.”
For more information please visit 49Portraits.com or CityofOrlando.net/art/49portraits. Terrace Gallery. Photo Credit: Keith Beasley.
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One Year Later
Spreading Love, Not Hate in Dear Friends: the Aftermath of Tragedy One year after our community was irrevocably changed by the Pulse tragedy Denise Royal in Orlando, The School of Social Work and Campus Ministry invite you to gather together with us to remember, to stand collected, and to offer our services, and through services this for nonyouth arry University’s Center forfor Human thoughts and reflections healing.drop-in We come together Rights and Social Justice is working to experiencing homelessness. denominational remember“As those thosethis who lostweloved we who reflectdied, on Pulse year, must spread a message gathering of love andtosupport remember that not all hate crimes are as visible in the aftermath of all lastthose year’s massacre at Pulse. ones, and shaken by the tragedy.
B
The center has the launched the Spread Love as Pulse was,” said Landon (LJ) Woolston, Not Hate Campaign, an initiative designed to Homeless Youth Programs and Services raise awareness about and 12, support for LGBT Manager at Pridelines. “The crisis of LGBTQ Monday June 2017 youth who are homeless or have unstable youth homelessness is an ongoing national 2:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m. tragedy, one that is also firmly rooted in antihousing in South Florida. The Landon communityStudent is being asked to donate LGBTQ sentiment. Pridelines is grateful that Union ready-to-eat “street snacks” for LGBT youth Barry University’s ‘Spread Love Not Hate’ Room 110 Items in need include campaign has given us the opportunity to not living on the streets. non-perishable items (shelf life of at least six only educate Barry students on the topic of Barry University months) such as cannednd goods, dry pastas/rice, LGBTQ youth homelessness, but also to inspire Avenue instant students to take action by contributing to a 2 mac-n-cheese, instant11300 noodles, NE instant potatoes, chips, crackers, Miami Shores,cookies, FL PB&J, trail donation drive to benefit local LGBTQ youth. mix, etc. Items can be dropped off at Powers Sadly, we cannot bring back the beautiful Hall, room 126, on Barry’s campus in Miami people we lost in the Pulse nightclub shooting, but we can #HonorThemWithAction. While it Shores. “We were thinking about this horrible tragedy is our sincere hope that Barry students will take For tragedy more information pleaseout contactpart Yvonne at yalonso@barry.edu in Alonso the effort to effect change through the and the idea that this was born of hate,” said Ashley Austin, Director, Center ‘Spread Love Not Hate’ campaign, we also hope for Human Rights and Social Justice, Ellen that they will become personally invested in Whiteside McDonald School of Social Work at creating safer and more inclusive communities Barry University. “This tragedy marked really as they leave Barry and venture into their extreme and egregious violence towards LGBT careers.” Barry’s Office of Student Services is handing people, but certainly not an isolated experience for LGBT people. LGBT people, especially out yellow ribbons to be worn as show of support young LGBT people, are faced with all kinds of for our LGBTQ community. Additionally, the hate, stigma and violence, often in their own community is also being asked to write notes homes and in their schools. We know LGBT of support, affirmations and hope that will be youth are going hungry and aren’t safe in their delivered to LGBTQ youth in our community to schools and restrooms. When we decided how remind them that they are important, loved and to approach this, we wanted to highlight our not alone. “We want the student body to think about the amazing community partner Pridelines.” Pridelines is Miami’s LGBTQ Community needs of LGBT young people,” Austin said. “We Center and South Florida’s oldest LGBTQ direct want them to know they matter.” The notes will be placed in the bags along service agency. It provides health services for people living with HIV/AIDS, youth programs with food and other items and given to and services including psychosocial groups, Pridelines. The campaign runs through June 12. On that day, Barry University will also host a remembrance for the victims and survivors of the Pulse shooting. It will be held from 2 p.m. to 3 p.m. and will be an interactive experience using poetry, reflections and providing a way to give voice to their collective pain.
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6.7.2017 •
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One Year Later
Photo Credit: Michael Rivera
Blood Donations Saved Many Lives the Night of Pulse Denise Royal
I
After the tragedy OneBlood partnered with five survivors
n the immediate aftermath of the Pulse shooting, the staff at OneBlood sprang into action. OneBlood is a not-for-profit organization responsible for providing safe, available and affordable blood to more than 200 hospital partners and their patients throughout most of Florida, parts of Georgia, Alabama and South Carolina. That blood was in demand immediately after the shooting. According to the Orlando Sentinel, 372 pints of blood were used to help shooting victims in the first 24 hours. One victim required 214 pints of blood, platelets or plasma. Typical volume for a Sunday is about 25 or 30 pints. Over the next two weeks, 109 pints were used for shooting victims. “On the morning of June 12, the need for ready blood supply was never more apparent,” said Susan Forbes, Vice President, Marketing and Communications at OneBlood. “What most don’t realize is blood has to be donated in advance of when it’s needed. It takes time to be tested. In most cases, a person who donates today, their blood will be sent to a hospital in two or three days.” OneBlood is a 24/7 operation. When the overnight distribution shift heard what had happened, it began sending blood to Orlando Regional Medical Center. “We were able to meet the need,” Forbes said. “We were rushing in blood from all over our service area and getting it here. It was an unprecedented event.” When the world woke up to the news of the massacre,
many around Orlando wanted to help. The response was During the midst of the crisis, OneBlood learned that overwhelming. In the week after the attack, OneBlood one of its employees, Rodolfo Ayala-Ayala was among the took in more 28,500 pints of blood; more than double the 49 dead. He was a supervisor in the platelet room at the agency’s average weekly volume. blood center. At the height of the aftermath, OneBlood also had to “He was a very loved team member here,” Forbes said. issue a news release in an attempt to “He was very outgoing and a tremendous stop a rumor that sexually active gay leader. His team appreciated him so much men were being allowed to donate and loved working with him. He made the “What most blood in the emergency. The rumor was job a lot of fun for everybody. He was a splashed across 24-hour cable TV and great motivator and great leader. We still don’t realize the Internet. cry over this loss. It was devastating to is blood has to The FDA bans any men who had sex learn that one of the victims was someone with men in the past year from donating who dedicated so much of his life to saving be donated in blood, as an extra line of precaution advance of when lives.” to prevent HIV infection through While still mourning Ayala-Ayala’s transfusion. death, OneBlood remains focused on it’s needed. It “We had to squash those rumors. All saving lives. It recently paired with five takes time to be blood centers are regulated by the Food Pulse survivors, Jeff Xcentric, Ilka Reyes, tested.” and Drug Administration (FDA),” Forbes Bryan Carabello, Tony Marrero and Angel said. “As a regulated agency, OneBlood Colon to encourage others to donate - Susan Forbes is required by law to follow all rules, blood. guidelines and to follow policies put “Blood donors saved many lives that forth by the FDA. We don’t make the night,” Forbes said. “It was the donors who rules, we have to follow them.” came in when there was no tragedy. It is the people who OneBlood employees were all hands on deck on Sunday came in during the days and weeks before the shooting. It and Monday, taking in donations from the long lines of was their blood that was on hand to use that night. So the donors and making sure all hospitals in its coverage area message really is, if you are eligible to donate blood, please had sufficient blood. don’t wait for a tragedy to do so.”
You can read more about the Pulse survivors’ stories here: www.oneblood.org/i-am-oneblood/testimonials/pulse-survivors.stml 30
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One Year Later 2016 Stonewall Pride. Photo Credit: Brendon Lies.
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T
he Pulse Nightclub attack in June of last year left an immeasurable impact on the lives of the family and friends of the 49 individuals who were murdered that night. But the impact on LGBT events and festivals in the wake of the worst LGBT hate crime in modern-American history is measurable in the increased dollars organizations have spent and will continue to spend on security – even when no credible threats present themselves. “As the saying goes, we prepare for the worst and hope for the best,” said Wilton Manors Police Chief Paul O’Connell. For the upcoming Stonewall Street Festival in Wilton Manors, O’Connell said the bigger threat, as compared with a possible Pulsestyle shooting attack, is someone driving a vehicle into the crowd, similar to the attacks in London and Nice. O’Connell said there won’t be as many law enforcement personnel as last year’s Stonewall, which occurred a week after Pulse, but that there would be an increased police presence. That increased presence, along with barricades and other safety measures, have resulted in a doubling of security costs for Stonewall – about $42,000. Working with Wilton Manors police will be the Fort Lauderdale Police Department, the Broward Sheriff’s Office, FBI, and Homeland Security. “This is the new reality that Wilton Manors [which requires uniformed officers] has placed on us,” said Jeff Sterling, CEO of
the Wilton Manors Entertainment Group [WMEG], which is working with the city to organize the event. Sterling said the added security costs meant that WMEG couldn’t afford to do some things it wanted to do, including adding more entertainment. But, he said, it’s not something that will hold WMEG back forever. “It will be twice as large as it is now. So, one more year is not the end of the world.” The increased security costs almost meant the end of last year’s Wicked Manors, or at least the involvement of the Pride Center, the event’s organizers. The organization had to spend three times what it spent in 2015 – from $9,000 to $27,000. A combination of increased financial assistance from the city and help from sponsors covered the additional security costs. Miik Martorell, president of Pride Fort Lauderdale, said his organization has been relatively lucky so far. Last year’s Pride only required about $5,000 in security costs. But it was still a doubling in expenses over the previous year’s festival. The nature of Pride Fort Lauderdale, which is contained to one area and doesn’t include a parade like Stonewall, means that less extensive security measures are needed. Fort Lauderdale is also less stringent than Wilton Manors when it comes to who can be hired to provide security, said Martorell. But, he added, the fear and nervousness over another possible attack is the same everywhere. 6.7.2017 •
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One Year Later
Lives That Mattered * O RL A N D O *
Associated Press
Forever in our minds
On June 12, 2016, a gunman wielding an assault-type rifle and a handgun opened fire inside Pulse, a crowded gay nightclub in Orlando, Florida, leaving 49 people dead in the worst mass shooting in modern U.S. history. Here are stories of the victims.
Paul Terrell Henry
Cory James Connell
Martin Benitez Torres
Paul Terrell Henry, 41, was a caring father of two who loved to dance, play piano and sing, according to his friends and his boyfriend. Francisco Hernandez, Henry's boyfriend, told the Orlando Sentinel the Chicago native's main priority was to make sure his kids were taken care of. “Such a loving spirit. I'll always have him in my heart," said Hernandez, who added that he will most remember Henry for his smile. Bettye Edwards, of Oviedo, told the newspaper that she and Henry started a church briefly and that Henry had a master's degree in business from Florida State University and a theological degree. Henry never took a lesson, Edwards said, but he was a talented musician who sang and played the organ and piano. Danielle Biggers, of Orlando, said she worked with Henry as a sales representative at a resort company. "He always would make sure he would say hello," she said. "He just was over the top and made everybody smile."
Cory James Connell, 21, was his family's superhero, his brother Ryan said in a Facebook post. According to the Orlando Sentinel, friends and even a former middle school teacher posted to Facebook remembering Connell. "I've taught almost 1,700 kids at Lee. He was so special," said Shelley Klein, a science teacher at Lee Middle School. "All of his teachers at Lee adored him. We describe him as our all-time favorite." Nancy Robbinson, a member of the Orange County School Board, remembered the smiles and hugs Connell greeted her with when she saw him at Publix where he worked. "Every time I saw him, he greeted me with a warm, inviting smile and a cheery, 'Hey, Mrs. Robbinson,' and sometimes I was even blessed to get a hug," she wrote. "I just saw him at Publix a week ago and got one of those great hugs.
Martin Benitez Torres, 33, had recently moved to Orlando and was working to become a pharmacy technician. Benitez was a student at a Tampa satellite campus of the Ana G. Mendez University System, based in Puerto Rico, where he was born. In a university statement, one of his professors called him a "diligent and extremely hardworking student." Benitez was "thankful for the opportunity to advance his career and hopeful to make his dreams a reality," said Carla Zayas, a Spanish professor. He posted several photos and videos on his Facebook page in the days before the shooting, including one in the kitchen cooking with family members. The cover photo on his Facebook profile includes a quote in Spanish: "If God takes away my eyesight, it's because I've been allowed to see everything that's beautiful in the world."
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One Year Later Juan Chavez Martinez
Jerald Arthur Wright
Jason Josaphat
Juan Chavez Martinez, 25, was a beloved boss and friend, friends and co-workers told the Orlando Sentinel. Friends said Martinez came to the U.S. from Huichapan, Mexico, and worked as a housekeeping supervisor for a hospitality service company. "He was extremely friendly, very dedicated to his family, to his co-workers . It is very difficult. Everybody loved him," said Alicia Amarro, chief financial officer for the company, APDC Services. Jose Crisantos used to work with Martinez at Reunion Resorts and also remembered Martinez's kindness. "He was very well known among us as very kind and loving," Crisantos said. "There was nobody else like him. It is a devastating loss."
Jerald Arthur Wright, 31, was quiet but knew how to treat guests at Walt Disney World, where he worked as a seasonal employee, a former co-worker said. "He was one of the kindest people you could meet," co-worker Kenneth Berrios told the Orlando Sentinel. "We had students from the London program . and Jerry was always willing to give rides to them and show them around town." Wright "was a great guy to work with," former coworker Scott Dickison said. "He was quiet but really wonderful with all the guests. He always had a smile on his face." Dickison said Wright had worked most recently in merchandising on Main Street in the Magic Kingdom, but also had worked in Tomorrowland and at Universal Studios in Orlando.
Jason Josaphat, 19, called his mother as a gunman opened fire to ask for help, his aunt and uncle said. She stayed on the line with him and could hear gunshots in the background, but tried to calm him down as he hid in the bathroom, Jimmy and Myrleine Inelus told KPNX-TV in Arizona, where Josaphat went to high school. His mother then didn't hear anything for as many as 20 seconds. "It was dead silence on the phone ... I think that's when the gunman finally made his way into the bathroom," Jimmy Inelus said. Josaphat moved to Orlando after graduating from high school in 2014. A childhood friend, Messiah McMillian, told KNXV-TV in Phoenix that he was one of the first people whom Josaphat told he was gay. "When I found out, I never judged him," McMillian said. "I never looked at him any differently. He was always my friend."
Eric Ivan Ortiz-Rivera Javier Jorge-Reyes
Javier Jorge-Reyes, 40, was known as "Javi" by his friends and as "Harvey George-Kings" on Facebook — a literal English translation of his name. But his Facebook profile name belied a deep pride in his Latino heritage, friends told the Orlando Sentinel. "He was proud to be Latino, super proud," friend Jose Diaz told the newspaper, adding: "He was always positive. He was very humble. He was a lovely friend." Diaz recalled being sold a wallet by Jorge-Reyes, who worked at a Gucci store at an Orlando mall. Another friend, Edith Colon of Miami, said Jorge-Reyes was a top salesman and makeup artist.
Christopher Joseph Sanfeliz
Eric Ivan Ortiz-Rivera, 36, followed the crowd from a housewarming party to Pulse, according to former roommate Abismael Colon Gomez. "I am really in shock that he was in the club, because he was not usually a club-scene person," Colon Gomez told the Orlando Sentinel. Ortiz-Rivera worked in merchandise management and had earned a degree in communications from a university in Puerto Rico. He left behind his husband of a year, Ivan Dominguez; they were married June 26, the day the U.S. Supreme Court gave same-sex couples the right to marry in all 50 states. "It was a big and happy coincidence," Dominguez, 30, told The Associated Press. Dominguez is grieving, but said he still feels connected to his husband. He was not at the nightclub because he was supposed to work the next day. Another friend posted on Ortiz-Rivera's Facebook page after learning of his death: "God just gained one funny and caring angel today."
Christopher Joseph Sanfeliz, 24, was always friendly and outgoing, "the most positive guy I've ever known," friend Josh Palange said. They became friends during middle school, and in high school, took honors classes and band together — Sanfeliz on trumpet. Though they didn't see each other much after graduating in 2010, "we stayed friends on Facebook," Palange told the Tampa Bay Times. Sanfeliz's family moved there from Cuba in the 1960s, family friend Mike Wallace said. Sanfeliz took business classes at a community college and was hired as a bank teller and worked his way up to become a personal banker, Wallace said. "He (was) a wonderful person and this is such a tragedy," said Wallace. "He was cut down in his prime."
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One Year Later Brenda Lee Marquez McCool
Frank Hernandez
Franky Jimmy De Jesus Velazquez
Brenda Lee Marquez McCool, 49, loved to dance, so much so that she'd go to nightclubs with her 21-year-old son. They were both at Pulse. She was killed, son Isaiah Henderson survived, her oldest daughter, Khalisha Pressley, told NBC News. "She was always really cool, but really a mom at the end of the day ... the sweetest lovingest person in the world," Pressley said of her mother, a two-time cancer survivor who had 11 children. "She was a fighter," lifelong friend Noreen Vaquer told the Orlando Sentinel. "She doesn't take nothing from nobody." Vaquer, who met McCool when they were kindergartners in Brooklyn, New York, said her friend gave good advice, backed up by life experience. "She's smart," Vaquer said. "She'll put you right."
Frank Hernandez, 27, loved fashion and lived to purchase the finest pieces of clothing at Calvin Klein or Armani. "He had the best of everything, the most expensive," said Jessica Leal, 19, one of his five siblings. "He liked the good stuff. And he worked hard for it." A manager at a Calvin Klein store in Orlando, Hernandez grew up in Texas' Rio Grande Valley, near the U.S.-Mexico border, and had lived in Central Florida for three years. Hernandez also loved Beyonce and going out to dance, and he frequented Pulse, Leal said. According to media reports, Hernandez's boyfriend was able to escape, but lost track of Hernandez in the chaos. His sister has planned a fitting tribute: She'll wear Calvin Klein at his funeral. "I'm pretty sure he'd love it if he saw it," she said.
Franky Jimmy De Jesus Velazquez, 50, worked as a visual merchandiser, designing displays for an Orlando clothing store, according to his Facebook page. He posted inspirational and funny messages on his page, including a T-shirt that read: "Never underestimate an old man who is also a visual merchandiser." On a list of victims with an average age of 29 years old, Velazquez was the oldest. But age never became a barrier for Velazquez, former co-worker Bret Werner said. "He was a very outgoing, friendly person," said Werner, who worked with him at a clothing store in Miami. "Everyone wanted to be around him." Among family and friends in his native Puerto Rico, Velazquez was known for Jibaro folk dancing, said his sister, Shiela De Jesus. "He was a very loved person."
Luis Daniel WilsonLeon
Jean Carlos Mendez Perez
Capt. Antonio Davon Brown
Luis Daniel Wilson-Leon, 37, barely spoke English when he moved from Puerto Rico to Florida in 2004, but he wasn't deterred by the language barrier. He quickly learned English, got a job and eventually met his partner, Jean Carlos Mendez Perez, 35, who also died. "(Wilson-Leon) walked into the room and all eyes were on him because of his positive energy, just what he radiated ... I'm heartbroken," said his cousin, Laly Santiago-Leon, adding that the couple frequented Pulse and loved Latin Night. Longtime friend Daniel Gmys-Casiano described Wilson-Leon as a protector and confidante. The two grew up in the same small town, and when Gmys-Casiano moved to the U.S., Wilson-Leon gave him a job in a shoe store. "He was my hero," Gmys-Casiano told the Orlando Sentinel. Even though Wilson-Leon had been bullied for his sexuality, Gmys-Casiano said, "he never retaliated with hate. ... He would stand to protect his friends."
Jean Carlos Mendez Perez, 35, had a humor and warmth that made him a great salesman — and helped him find love, a co-worker said. "He laughed with the people and would make jokes," said Claudia Agudelo, who worked with Perez at a perfume store. "He was always happy." Mendez Perez met his longtime partner, Luis Daniel Wilson-Leon, about a decade ago when he sold him the fragrance Declaration by Cartier, Agudelo told the Orlando Sentinel. Wilson-Leon also died in the nightclub shooting. Mendez Perez moved to the U.S. from Puerto Rico when he was a teenager, and made friends quickly, father Angel Mendez said. "He was a real dynamic kid," he said. Sister-in-law Katia Mendez said Mendez Perez also was a fun-loving and doting uncle who would buy her three children candy and ice cream. "He was like a little kid when he was with them," she said.
Capt. Antonio Davon Brown, 29, served in the Army Reserve and deployed to Kuwait for nearly a year. Brown graduated in 2008 from Florida A&M, where he majored in criminal justice and participated in the ROTC program. Lt. Col. Kelvin Scott, a ROTC instructor, remembered Brown's positive attitude and sense of humor. "He kept a smile on his face," Scott told the Tallahassee Democrat newspaper. "He was willing to work very hard to earn his commission." Devonta White, a friend of Brown's, said Brown was known in their dorm for waking up early for drills and becoming close friends with his fellow trainees, but also making friends outside of ROTC. "He had a car so when he went to Wal-Mart, I would ride with him," White said. "We just became good friends over time. He helped me more than he knows." An Army service record shows Brown deployed to Kuwait from April 2010 to March 2011.
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One Year Later Darryl Roman Burt II
Darryl Roman Burt II, 29, worked as a financial aid officer for Keiser University's Jacksonville, Florida, campus. As a volunteer, he co-chaired a clothing drive for the homeless for the Jacksonville Jaycees, a nonprofit organization. "Darryl was very passionate about working in the community and wasn't afraid to take the lead," Jacksonville Jaycees President Shawn DeVries told the Indianapolis Star. "If someone needed anything, he'd usually just ask for the details: where, when and what are the deadlines." Burt left behind family in central Indiana, and recently earned a degree in human resources management. Keiser University's chancellor, Arthur Keiser, called Burt "a highly respected member of the KU team" on the school's website, and the school was providing grief counselors to help Burt's colleagues.
Akyra Murray
Akyra Murray, 18, recently graduated third in her high school class of 42 students, had scored 1,000 points on the basketball team and had signed a letter of intent to play basketball at Mercyhurst University. "She was very loving, caring, out to help anybody," recalled her mother, Natalie Murray. To celebrate her graduation, Akyra Murray, her parents and her 4-year-old sister traveled to Orlando. Murray wanted to party in downtown Orlando, and her parents dropped her off at Pulse at 11:30 p.m. About 2 a.m., Murray sent a text message, saying that she and her cousins wanted to be picked up and there'd been a shooting. Moments later, the phone rang. "... (S)he was screaming, saying she was losing a lot of blood," Natalie Murray said. She was hiding in a bathroom stall, her arm bleeding for hours with no medical treatment. Akyra Murray told her mother to call police. They never spoke again.
Simon Adrian CarrilloFernandez
Oscar A. AracenaMontero
Simon Adrian Carrillo-Fernandez, 31, loved to travel and "worked to be able to enjoy his life," co-worker Ivonne Irizarry said. A manager at McDonald's, Carillo-Fernandez had traveled to the Dominican Republic, Puerto Rico and Mexico and went on cruises, Irizarry said. He and his partner, Oscar Aracena-Montero, who also was killed at the nightclub, had just returned from Niagara Falls, Irizarry told the Orlando Sentinel. Carillo-Fernandez never forgot a birthday, she said, and would bring in cakes for his McDonald's co-workers. Colleagues said Carrillo-Fernandez's attention to detail was a trademark of his leadership style. "He had to be the best, that was his thing. I cook the best, I clean the best, I work the best," she said of him.
Oscar A. Aracena-Montero, 26, lived with his partner, Simon Adrian Carillo-Fernandez, and three Chihuahuas in a home they bought last year, a friend, Andrea Herrera, told the Orlando Sentinel. Yamilka Pimentel, a cousin, said AracenoMontero moved with his father from the Dominican Republic to Central Florida as a child. "Oscar was a very sweet guy. Very sweet to everybody," Pimentel told the newspaper. "Every time he met somebody they would like him a lot. He was the type of guy who goes along with anybody."
Leroy Valentin Fernandez
Xavier Emmanuel Serrano Rosado
Leroy Valentin Fernandez, 25, recently had found a job as a leasing agent for an Orlando apartment complex, said his friend, Jennifer Rodriguez. "He had finally found something he liked. He was taking care of his mom," she said of Fernandez, who was also her hair stylist and one of her best friends. "He was like a brother," she said. "He was just really very spirited and always happy, you know?" Fernandez recently had been dating an older man, a dancer known by the stage name Eman Valentino, who also died in the shooting.
Xavier Emmanuel Serrano Rosado, 35, went by Eman Valentino on the stage. He dressed elegantly in a top hat, tie and gloves, collecting tips from the audience between high kicks and spins, according to a YouTube video. Off the stage, Rosado had a young son who had graduated from pre-kindergarten. "I have no words to express how proud and happy I am of my little boy," Rosado wrote on Facebook recently about his son. Yemil Royce, a friend, described Rosado as hardworking, talkative and friendly: "He was a lovely friend, brother and father."
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One Year Later Mercedez Marisol Flores
Amanda Alvear
Luis Omar Ocasio-Capo
Mercedez Marisol Flores, 26, went to Pulse nightclub almost every weekend, often with her best friend, Amanda Alvear. "She was very outgoing," her sister-in-law, Nancy Flores, said. "She had lots of friends." Mercedez Flores worked at Target, studied at a local community college and wanted to become a party planner so she could coordinate events with her two older brothers, who are both DJs. Flores' family spent hours waiting at Orlando Regional Medical Center, then a staging area at a nearby hotel. Someone read the names of victims still hospitalized or being released, and her name wasn't on the list. Her father got a call early the next day from the sheriff's office that his daughter had died, Nancy Flores said.
Amanda Alvear, 25, and Mercedez Flores posted on Snapchat from the nightclub before the shooting. Alvear's friend Sandy Marte said one of Alvear's Snapchats showed a packed club full of revelers. Another, a selfie video of Alvear with a series of gunshots in the background. Marte and Alvear bonded over breakups and health problems. "She was loving, she was caring, she always had an open ear, she always wanted to help people," Marte said. "She had an amazing heart." Marte said he understands what it's like to be at a nightclub during a shooting. He was at the Glitz Ultra Lounge in Orlando in February when two people were killed, and said he froze in place from the shock of it.
Luis Omar Ocasio-Capo, 20, wanted to be a star. "He was one of the most amazing dancers," his sister, Belinette Ocasio-Capo, said. "He would always call me and say, 'I'm going to be the next Hollywood star.' He really did want to make it and be known. "Now his name ended up being all around the world, like he wanted — just not this way," she said of her brother, a dancer who was working at a Starbucks while studying theater. Omar, as he was known to family and friends, at first seemed brash to 70-year-old Claudia Mason, a co-worker, but after getting to know him, she said, "I realized he had a very outgoing personality." "His sense of humor was definitely his defining personality trait," she said. "Omar got along with everyone. Young, old, male, female, gay, or straight, it didn't matter to Omar."
Eddie Jamoldroy Justice
Eddie Jamoldroy Justice, 30, tapped out a series of chilling text messages to his mother from a bathroom at Pulse, a 45-minute exchange that began with a message of love. "Mommy I love you," the first message to Mina Justice said at 2:06 a.m. The messages became more frantic as he told her the shooter was in the bathroom where he was hiding. "He's a terror," her son wrote. Eddie Justice normally was a homebody who liked to eat, work out and make everyone laugh, his mother said. He worked as an accountant. "Lives in a sky house, like the Jeffersons," his mother said she liked to say of his condominium.
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Shane Tomlinson Miguel Honorato
Shane Tomlinson, 33, had a passion for singing, and had been the lead vocalist with "The Frequency Band" at a nightclub before going to Pulse, according to the Orlando Sentinel. "He was destined for a grand stage and he was doing exactly what he wanted to do," said Dr. Lathan Turner, associate director of student transitions at East Carolina University, where Tomlinson graduated in 2003 with a degree in communication. Tomlinson was a vibrant and charismatic lead vocalist, friends said. "I've never met anyone like him," said Carey Sobel, an Orlando resident who hired Tomlinson's band to play for his upcoming wedding. "He was really special." Tarrick Cox, an adviser for East Carolina's gospel choir who worked with Tomlinson, remembers his contagious personality and the laughter that surrounded him. "He was gifted and creative. He was a go-getter," Cox said in a statement from the university.
Miguel Honorato, 30, was a father of three who managed four restaurants in central Florida along with a side catering business. He was always the one to drop everything to help out his family, which included seven siblings. His brother, Jose Honorato, wrote a simple, heartfelt message on his brother's Facebook page: "Come home bro, I'm waiting for you." "He was my mentor and my supporter. He helped very much in my parents' house and work," Honorato said. Even though Miguel was younger, he gave sage advice about the family business, his brother said. Jose Honorato changed his Facebook photo Monday to one of the two brothers smiling over a charcoal grill, one of many happy memories cooking together.
One Year Later Juan Ramon Guerrero
Jonathan Camuy Peter O. Gonzalez-Cruz
Jonathan Camuy, 25, moved to Central Florida from Puerto Rico to work for the Spanish-language television network Telemundo. He was on the production team for "La Voz Kids," a talent show for young singers in its fourth season. "Jonathan was an extremely hard-working individual, full of life, enthusiastic and with a great personality," the network said in a statement. "He will be missed dearly." Camuy was also active in the National Association of Hispanic Journalists, which called him "one of our own" in a statement about his death.
Peter O. Gonzalez-Cruz, 22, known among family and friends as "Ommy," was always the life of the party. "Peter makes a difference everywhere he goes. He was a happy person. If Peter is not at the party, no one wants to go," his aunt, Sonia Cruz, said. Gonzalez-Cruz, who worked at UPS, went to Pulse with his best friend, 25-year-old Gilberto Ramon Silva Menendez. After news of the mass shooting emerged, Sonia Cruz said she held out hope for hours that her nephew would turn up in a hospital bed. The family was later told he and Menendez were among those killed.
Edward Sotomayor Gilberto Ramon Silva Menendez
Edward Sotomayor, 34, was a caring, energetic man known for wearing a silly top hat on cruises, according to David Sotomayor, who said the two discovered they were cousins after meeting at Orlando's annual Gay Days festival around a decade ago. Edward worked for a company that held gay cruises and often traveled to promote the company's events, said David Sotomayor. "He was just always part of the fun," David Sotomayor said. David Sotomayor is a drag queen who appeared on a season of the reality show "RuPaul's Drag Race" using the name "Jade." The two texted regularly and kept in touch via Facebook messages, last seeing each other this year at a filming of the reality show. They last exchanged messages late last week. "You never think that's going to be the last time you speak to him," Sotomayor said. "It's just heartbreaking to know it just can happen anytime."
Gilberto Ramon Silva Menendez, 25, moved to Orlando a few years ago, his cousin, Irma Silva-Lauer, told the Orlando Sentinel. He was an only child and "the light and the life of all the family gatherings," Silva-Lauer said.
Juan Ramon Guerrero, 22, told his cousin, Robert Guerrero, that he was gay about two years ago. But he was worried about how the rest of his family would react, and did not tell them until just before the beginning of this year. "They were very accepting," said Robert Guerrero, 19. "As long as he was happy, they were OK with it." He got concerned after hearing of the shooting at Pulse, where he knew his cousin would go to every once in a while. Juan Guerrero was a telemarketer, in recent months he started attending college at the University of Central Florida and was in a relationship with someone his relatives regarded as part of the family, Robert Guerrero said. "... (H)e was like a big brother to me," he said. "He was never the type to go out to parties, would rather stay home and care for his niece and nephew."
Tevin Eugene Crosby
Tevin Eugene Crosby, 25, had a drive for success, which was reflected in his inspirational Facebook posts — "2016 will be the best year ever." "Whatever goal he had in mind, he worked hard. Whether alone or on a team, he worked on that goal," Chavis Crosby told the Orlando Sentinel. Tevin Crosby was director of operations for a Michigan marketing firm who'd recently visited family in Statesville, North Carolina, to watch several nieces and nephews graduate. Then, he traveled to Orlando after passing along some brotherly advice about business and setting goals. He loved to travel for work and fun, Chavis Crosby said. "He was definitely a good person and a good brother to me," he said.
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One Year Later Stanley Almodovar III
Stanley Almodovar III, 23, had tomato-and-cheese dip prepared by his mother to eat when he came home from his night out. Instead, Rosalie Ramos was awakened by a call telling her something had happened. Ramos told the Orlando Sentinel that her son, a pharmacy technician, posted a Snapchat video of himself singing and laughing on his way to Pulse nightclub. "I wish I had that (video) to remember him forever," she told the newspaper. A friend, Hazel Ramirez, told the Washington Post she also saw a video from Almodovar on Snapchat. She described Almodovar as "kind, but sassy," and someone who was comfortable with his sexual identity. "He was so proud of who he was," she told the Post. "He would do his makeup better than anyone else. It was so easy to be myself with him."
Anthony Luis Laureano Disla
Anthony Luis Laureano Disla, 25, started dancing at the age of 10 and was comfortable with any number of styles, from salsa to ballroom, his cousin Ana Figueroa said. Figueroa told the Orlando Sentinel that Laureano Disla invited her out for a night of dancing at Pulse nightclub, but she told him she was too tired. He was out with two roommates, both of whom were injured in the shooting, she said. The newspaper did not identify the roommates. Born in Puerto Rico, Laureano Disla moved to Orlando about three years ago to become a dancer and choreographer, Figueroa said. "I want people to remember Anthony as someone who was very happy and very kind," Figueroa said. "This is just devastating for our family and his friends."
Christopher Leinonen
Luis Vielma
Luis Vielma, 22, was well-loved and worked at Universal Studios, friends said. High school friend Eddi Anderson told the Tampa Bay Times that Vielma loved his job at the Wizarding World of Harry Potter and was known for his pleasant attitude and warm demeanor. J.K. Rowling, the author of the Harry Potter books that spawned the movies and section of the theme park, tweeted a picture of Vielma in a Hogwarts school tie, and said: "I can't stop crying." "He was always a friend you could call. He was always open and available, Josh Boesch, who worked with Vielma, told the Orlando Sentinel. Vielma "just wanted to make people smile," said another co-worker, Olga Glomba.
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Kimberly "KJ" Morris
Kimberly "KJ" Morris, 37, moved to Orlando months ago and worked at Pulse as a bouncer, the Orlando Sentinel reported. "She was so excited," ex-girlfriend Starr Shelton told the newspaper. "She'd just started working there and told me how she was thrilled to get more involved in the LGBT community there." Narvell Benning met Morris when they were in college at Post University, where they both played basketball. "I can't think of a time when I did not see a smile on her face," Benning told the Sentinel. "I'm so thankful of the good memories I have of her." Liz Lamoureux told The Associated Press in a statement that Morris was one of her sister's best friends and a true friend to her entire family: "What did KJ die for? Being gay and going to work? It just makes no sense — her life amounts to so much more than that."
Enrique Rios
Christopher Leinonen, 32, was a Pulse with his friend Brandon Wolf, who sent a text to Leinonen's mother to say a shooting had occurred and her son was missing. Christine Leinonen drove to Orlando at 4 a.m. from Polk County, southwest of the city. When she arrived, she began checking emergency rooms to find her son. She never did. "These are nonsensical killings of our children," she said, sobbing. "They're killing our babies!" She said Wolf survived by hiding in a bathroom and running out as the bullets flew.
Enrique Rios, 25, had come from Brooklyn to Orlando to celebrate a friend's birthday. Even though his mother, Gertrude Merced, says that her heart is broken, she has already forgiven the gunman. "I'm not angry at the gunman. I'm angry about the situation. I'm going to forever miss my son ... but I still have the hope that I'm going to see him again one day," Merced told reporters as she packed her bags outside her New York apartment and headed to Florida. Rios' Facebook page says he worked with a home health care agency, and his mother said he had a heart for helping the elderly. He was studying social work. Family and friends said he was determined, always helping others and had a heart of gold.
One Year Later Angel CandelarioPadro
Joel Rayon Paniagua
Alejandro Barrios Martinez
Angel Candelario-Padro, 28, moved to Orlando from Chicago in January to be closer to family. The nurse and National Guard member soon found a new job and a new love. "He was a humble boy, a good student. He liked to work and wasn't too much into partying," his aunt Leticia Padro told Univision. Candelario-Padro's boyfriend, who was shot several times, told her that after hearing several shots he turned to Candelario-Padro and asked if he was OK. "He told him he was OK, but in that instant he fell to the floor," Padro said. Candelario-Padro loved music and had played the clarinet in a band in his hometown of Guanica, Puerto Rico, according to uncle Efrain Padro. "We're waiting for his body to be brought home," he said, "We will welcome him with music."
Joel Rayon Paniagua, 32, moved to Florida from Mexico in the early 2000s in search of a better life. He went back to his home state of Veracruz for several years but returned to Tampa less than a year ago, relatives and friends said. "We came because here in the United States there are many opportunities here and because we were fleeing because in our country there was a lot of crime, violence and death ... and we expect it should be more peaceful here," his cousin Jose Paniagua told Newsday. The construction worker was looking forward to meeting friends at Pulse for another night of dancing — something he loved to do, friend Lorena Barragan told the Orlando Sentinel. "He was the best," said Barragan, who met Rayon Paniagua at church. "He was loyal. He was always trying to do stuff to make you feel better."
Alejandro Barrios Martinez, 21, had recently moved to Florida from Cuba and was still trying to master English, according to a friend. Sarai Torres told the Orlando Sentinel she met Martinez last year, and he "always had a smile on his face." "Every interaction I had with him was totally positive," she said, adding that she remembers Martinez as an outgoing person who introduced her to his other friends. "He's the type of person (who would) see you in a parking lot and he'd have a whole conversation with you." Torres, 30, said she saw Martinez several times at Pulse nightclub, which she described as a good place to meet new people. She was not at the club during the shooting.
Luis Daniel Conde
Luis Daniel Conde, 39, ran a beauty salon in Kissimmee with another victim of the shooting at Pulse, Juan Pablo Rivera Velasquez, his longtime partner. "Everyone knows about this beauty salon," Irene Rivera told the Orlando Sentinel. She spoke of the couple's work on the Belleza Latina pageant. Tania Mercador was in tears as she described how she was supposed to have joined Conde and Velasquez at Pulse the night they died. "I used GPS and got lost," she said. "It kept sending me to the wrong address."
Rodolfo Ayala-Ayala
Rodolfo Ayala-Ayala, 33, was a biologics supervisor at the OneBlood donation center, according to the Orlando Sentinel. "He's alive in the people's lives that he saved," said Mat Simons, who worked under Ayala-Ayala and said his supervisor was also a blood donor. Ayala-Ayala had bought a car and a house within the past year. Wednesday would have been his one-year anniversary of home-ownership.
Juan Pablo Rivera Velazquez
Juan Pablo Rivera Velazquez, 37, worked at Alta Peluqueria D'Magazine salon in Kissimmee with Conde. Client Alexandra Ale told the Orlando Sentinel the salon would often be filled with clients who were there just to see the Velazquez and Conde. Ale said the salon would often provide free services to women who had been victims of domestic abuse. "They would take the shirt off their back to help others," said Jocelyn De Leon, another client. Messages were left in chalk on the sidewalk outside their salon. "We will always thank you for making us feel beautiful," one message read.
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One Year Later Deonka Deidra Drayton
Jean Carlos Nieves Rodriguez
Yilmary Rodriguez Solivan, 24
Deonka Deidra Drayton, 32, was quick to tell someone off if she thought they were in the wrong, but it was her way of showing she cared, an ex-girlfriend said. Drayton had been in legal trouble involving drugs, but Ashleigh Alleyne told the Orlando Sentinel Drayton was changing after they had been arrested together a couple years ago. "She was actually putting in effort, because we both hit rock bottom at the same time," Alleyne said. "She pushed me to get through her issues, and I always tried to do the same for her."
Jean Carlos Nieves Rodriguez, 27, was remembered by family and friends as a kind man and a hard worker. Nieves Rodriguez, originally from Puerto Rico, had worked as manager of a McDonald's and a checkcashing store and bought his first house a month and a half ago, the Orlando Sentinel reported. "He wanted to be the best at what he did, and he would work very hard to achieve that. ... That's why whatever job he went to, he became a manager," friend Ivonne Irizarry told the newspaper. His sister Valeria Monroig said he "cared more about others than about himself."
Yilmary Rodriguez Solivan, 24, was out for a night of dancing with her brother-in law and a friend, and posed for a photo before a gunman opened fire. Known as "Mary" to family and friends, Rodriguez Solivan was married to race car driver Juan Borges and had two children, the Orlando Sentinel reported. Her friend, Jonathan Antonio Camuy, also died. Her brother-in-law, William Sabad Borges, was shot twice, but the injuries were not serious, the newspaper reported. "I swear, my heart has a ladder tall enough to reach you both," Sabad Borges wrote on Facebook. "Mary, you leave me with a pain that I never thought I would feel."
Geraldo OrtizJimenez, 25
Geraldo Ortiz-Jimenez, 25, was known to friends and on Facebook as Drake. He was proud of his Dominican heritage, posing with a flag of the Dominican Republic in celebration of a Dominican model winning Nuestra Belleza Latina 2016. The photo, posted on Facebook, included Spanish-language hashtags that translate as #proud #Dominican. Ortiz-Jimenez graduated from J.P. McCaskey High School in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, in 2010, school district spokeswoman Kelly Burkholder told The Associated Press. He was living in Puerto Rico, according to his social media accounts, and studying at Universidad del Este in Carolina, Puerto Rico. Kevin Ortiz, a friend from college, described him as a humble man who was always concerned about staying fit and working toward fulfilling his dream of being a dancer. Messages were left in chalk on the sidewalk outside their salon. "We will always thank you for making us feel beautiful," one message read.
Merchant reported from Dallas and Webber and Johnson from Chicago. Associated Press reporters Danica Coto in San Juan, Puerto Rico; Thomas Peipert in Denver; Olga Rodriguez in San Francisco; Alina Hartounian in Phoenix; Jason Dearen in Orlando, Florida; Kelli Kennedy in Fort Lauderdale, Florida; Errin Haines Whack in Philadelphia; Caleb Jones in Honolulu; and Don Babwin in Chicago contributed to this report.
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One Year Later Photo Credit: CycleWard, Facebook.
Charity Ride to Remember Victims Denise Royal
T
he 49 victims of the Pulse nightclub shooting will be remembered during a special charity ride on June 10. CycleWard Studio in Fort Lauderdale will host the event– just two days prior to the one-year anniversary of the tragedy. CycleWard Studio is located at 6161 North Federal Highway in the Imperial Point Plaza in Fort Lauderdale. The Pulse Pride Ride will take place from 11:30 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. It will be a dual-ride led by CycleWard instructors Nick Tofini and his partner, Brian Varela, who conceptualized the fundraising initiative. Space is limited so interested riders are encouraged to register and reserve their spot in advance at CycleWardStudio.com. “When Nick and Brian approached me with the idea, I immediately embraced it,” said CycleWard owner Lisa Anderson, in a statement. “The shooting at Pulse nightclub was a heartbreaking, horrific and senseless act of violence against the LGBT community and humanity overall. CycleWard is proud to be able to honor the victims and all those impacted with this ride—celebrating life, acceptance, and embracing the simple notion that love is love—while raising funds and awareness for such a deserving organization as Equality Florida.” In the same statement Tofini added,
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“This is obviously a cause that is very near to our hearts. Realizing the one-year anniversary of the Pulse shooting was approaching, Brian and I felt compelled to do something that would memorialize the victims in a meaningful way, no matter how big or small. We came up with the idea of leading a dual ride together with 49 bikes—49 riders which so perfectly represent the 49 victims—all to benefit an organization dedicated to fighting for the rights of the LGBT community here in Florida. We invite the local community to come out and join us as a rider, friend or supporter for this truly special event.” The cost to participate is $40 per person, limited to 49 bikes in honor of the victims, and includes a free shirt and complimentary drink coupon for the after-party at Rosie’s Bar & Grill in Wilton Manors. All proceeds from the ride will be donated to Equality Florida— the state’s largest civil rights organization dedicated to securing full equality for the LGBT community. As the one year anniversary of the tragedy approaches, Equality Florida has launched the #HonorThemWithAction Campaign, a nationwide commemoration of the Pulse massacre that calls on individuals and organizations to honor those killed by taking action to uproot the hatred that feeds bullying, harassment, discrimination, and violence.
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One Year Later President Barack Obama walks away from the lectern with Vice President Joe Biden after making a statement about the mass shooting in Orlando, Fla., June 16, 2016. Official White House Photo by Pete Souza.
Pulse in the Media, the Good and the Bad
How We Handle Representation and Notoriety Jillian Melero
W
e will never forget the events that took place in the early hours of June 12 at Pulse nightclub in Orlando Florida. Breaking news reports were broadcast and rebroadcast as new details emerged about the shooting, those we lost, and those who survived. Yet within those same hours we saw Orlando come together. We heard stories of heroics, of club goers acting to save lives, and to offer each other comfort during and after the events at Pulse. People donated blood to OneBlood, faith leaders shared messages of unity, and organizers and activists repeated the call for improved gun legislation. The Orlando Sentinel won a Pulitzer prize for its coverage of the events which took place on and around Pulse and the Orlando community. “Without question, it was one of the toughest situations to see a staff in,” said Orlando Sentinel Publisher and Editor-inChief Avido Khahaifa told a fellow Sentinel reporter after receiving the award. Khahaifa said the reporters, editors, and photographers in the Orlando newsroom that Sunday were checking in on their
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own loved ones. “It was the first time in my career as an editor that I worked with HR to remind people we have an employee assistance program if anybody needs to talk.” As the story broke, the Sentinel began its reports at 3:21 am. In the first day, the Sentinel published 40 articles and 31 videos online as well as eight extra pages of coverage in print. And as details were first revealed about the nightclub shooter, the shooter’s history, background, and alleged affiliations, the Sentinel shared those details. But after the initial reports, and in the weeks after, the Sentinel’s coverage took notoriety away from the shooter, and focused the story on the lives of the victims and those affected. The BBC produced a documentary including interviews with Pulse survivors, it does not name the shooter, and focuses instead on first person accounts, using animated renderings of the club interior. VIDEO BBC DOCUMENTARY WATCH bit.ly/2s0XnEr
The Newsroom Pizza Chain
x
As journalists continue to cover terrorism, violence and other local stories they wish they didn’t have to, fellow journos show their support with small gestures, like food. A newsroom pizza chain recently made its way to Manchester. ▶ Boston (Globe) to Baltimore (Sun), Freddie Gray Protests, April 2015 ▶ Baltimore (Sun) to Charleston (Post and Courier), Charleston Church Shootings, June 2015 ▶ the country to Orlando(Sentinel), Pulse Shootings, June 2016 ▶ Orlando and the country to Dallas (Morning News), Dallas Sniper Attack, July 2016 ▶ Dallas (Morning News) to Miami(Herald), Death of Fidel Castro, December 2016 ▶ Boston (Globe) to Manchester (Evening News) – Manchester Bombing, May 2017
Florida’s Governor Rick Scott, addressed the community of Orlando in his State of the State address in March of this year:
Since I last stood here to address you, Florida has endured many heartbreaks. I have prayed for families around our state who have been impacted by tragedy, and my own heart has been broken for their losses. Our state has been rocked by the gruesome terrorist attack at the Pulse Nightclub, in Orlando Nothing could have prepared me for the horror we saw on June 12, 2016 when a terrorist inspired by ISIS stormed into Pulse and senselessly killed 49 innocent people. This was a terrorist attack and 49 brothers, sisters, mothers, fathers, friends and spouses were murdered. The days I spent in Orlando following the shooting will always be with me. I talked to many parents who lost their children…” Equality Florida, the civil rights advocacy and action group, criticized Scott for not acknowledging the victims of Pulse as LGBTQ. “While we are glad the governor spotlighted the Pulse tragedy, we are deeply disappointed that when talking about the worst anti-LGBTQ attack in our nation’s history, our governor failed to acknowledge the LGBTQ community in any way,” Equality Florida public policy director Hannah Willard said in a statement.
“Gov. Scott spoke about the horror our state experienced in the wake of the attack, the heroism of Orlando’s first responders, and the pain of families who lost loved ones. What we didn’t hear was any mention of the LGBTQ community targeted in this murderous rampage which occurred on Latin night.” While Equality Florida took the opportunity to rally around efforts to pass HB 623/SB 666, which add sexual orientation and gender identity as a protected class in Florida’s civil rights law, some have taken the argument for representation in another direction. In January the Orlando Sentinel reported that local Aleksander Sagrav, had plans to produce a 13-episode Spanish-language drama called “Pulso 360” to be filmed entirely in Orlando and air on Telemundo over the summer. Sagrav said the series would combine true events and fiction, using actors playing characters inspired by people whose lives were affected by the Pulse shooting. The series was never confirmed by Telemundo. In February, the Sentinel reported that Spanish-language station Univision made the controversial choice of airing a reenactment of the June 12th events during a weekend news show “Crónicas De Sábado” (Saturday Chronicles) the segment, titled “Baño De Sangre” (Blood Bath) was heavily criticized for its sensationalism and graphic content.
WMG Volume 4 • Issue 10 June 7, 2017
Wilton Manors Gazette
Community
Crime Increasing in Wilton Manors Police Chief says “first four months have not been pretty” By Michael d’Oliveira In early May, the Wilton Manors Police from 14 to 8, vehicle burglaries were down Department arrested a man fleeing a crime from 15 to 13, vehicle theft was down from scene who jumped the fence into the police 9 to 3, and robberies were up from 0 to 4. compound at city hall. It was an easy arrest The total number of arrests in CANA was of a man Chief Paul O’Connell described as 116. In the Westside Association of Wilton “not the brightest bulb.” Unfortunately, the chief also said it was part of an increase in Manors [WAWM], residential burglaries were up from 10 to 11, vehicular burglaries certain types of crimes in the city. “Unfortunately, the first four months were up from 4 to 5, vehicle theft was up from 1 to 4, and robberies have not been pretty,” were up from 2 to 3. The total O’Connell told attendees number of arrests in WAWM of a Central Area was 68. Neighborhood Association Sal Torre, president [CANA] meeting in May. He of WAWM, said he’s not was referring to statistics surprised by the increase. the police department “Here in Broward County, released of reported seeing an increase in drugcrimes – vehicle burglaries related crimes due to the and theft, robberies, and growing opioid epidemic, residential burglaries. along with growing homeless In the statistics, which population and stagnant low cover Jan. 1 to March 31 wages, there should be no and broken down by the surprise that we are seeing a geographical area of each slight increase in the crime neighborhood association, stats for our neighborhoods crime rates varied. Total here in Wilton Manors. Our arrests in the entire city - Sal Torre WMPD has done a great job in were up from 139 to 209. reaching out to neighborhood In the East Neighborhood Association [ENA], associations and residents warning to residential burglaries were up from 2 to stay vigilant and to report any suspicious 3 from 2016 to 2017. Vehicular burglaries activity. Recent arrests around the city were down from 6 to 5, vehicle theft was show the rewards of residents working up from 0 to 1, and robberies were up from together with the WMPD.” To help combat crime, police are urging 0 to 3. The total number of arrests in ENA residents to communicate more with police was 25. CANA residential burglaries were down and report suspicious behavior.
“Recent arrests around the city show the rewards of residents working together with the WMPD.”
“Let us know,” said Commander Gary Blocker. On May 31, according to police, one resident responded to that request and called to report two suspicious subjects in Manor Grove Village, located at Andrews Avenue and Northeast 21 Court. The two men were burglarizing a vehicle and were eventually arrested. The police department touted the arrests as a successful example of “See Something – Say Something.”
Police also want residents to be more cautious by locking their cars. Blocker said that 85 percent vehicles of that are burglarized are left unlocked. WMG
To remind residents to lock their vehicles, the police department has initiated its “Lock It. Or Lose It.” campaign and is encouraging motorists to lock their cars, hide their valuables or take them with you.
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Opinion
2017: Already One Hell of A Ride By Sal Torre
WMG June 7, 2017 • Volume 4 • Issue 10 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 Copyeditor • Kerri Covington
2017
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
So far, 2017 has been one hell of a ride. June is already here, which means that it is time to get moving on my “To Do List” for 2017. Almost half a year is gone, and the second half has a habit of going by at a much faster pace. The arrival of June also reminds me to take some time out to celebrate the Summer Solstice later this month, making a Midsummer Night’s Dream by stirring up some merriment and awakening the spirit of mirth. There are a couple items swirling around my head this week that I want to mention. The first is the May 10 “SFGN” issue, reporting on the Diversity Honors Award Ceremony, specifically the comment by Stuart Milk, Executive Chair of the Harvey Milk Foundation. “We made a statement this year that LGBT is not just a liberal issue. We set the tone with some conservative speakers.” Wow, really? No longer just a liberal issue? Pretty easy for the conservatives and the rest of the closeted queens of years gone by to claim the spotlight now that all the fighting, sacrificing, and dirty work has been done. By mere definition of the word “liberal,” LGBT issues can be nothing but liberal. Where were these Conservatives in the early days of the movement? Where were they when LGBT lives were being ruined, attacked, and arrested for speaking out for equality, justice, funding for HIV/AIDS research? Disgraced Congressmen like Mark Foley and Dennis Hastert, apparently felt a need to play with underaged boys instead, while the “liberals” were marching for equality in San Francisco, New York, and other urban centers where the LGBT movement took hold and blossomed into a national movement. No problem for Stuart Milk though. “I prefer to think about the 99.5 percent of the people who enjoyed the event and don’t even know who Mark Foley is.” That deserves another Wow! Really? I can guarantee that most of the attendees at the Diversity Honors know exactly who Mark Foley is. Looking past the controversy of the awards ceremony, the Harvey Milk Foundation and Stuart Milk have done tremendous work in the worldwide fight for LGBT equality. Hopefully next year’s event will honor regional leaders and leave the divisive speakers, such as Nancy Brinker and her guest Mark Foley, off the speaker list.
Another topic on my mind is a “Tale of Two Islands.” As someone who grew up during the aftermath of the Cuban missile crisis, the Cold War, and the Mariel Boatlift that overtook Miami, I am somewhat amazed at the comparisons of two islands very close to one another--Cuba and Puerto Rico. When 125,000 Cuban refugees where flooding into South Florida in 1980, the national news outlets covered it around the clock. However, there was little media coverage when in 2014, more than 140,000 people left Puerto Rico for the mainland, followed in 2015 by even greater numbers, with the exodus continuing as their economy falters. Fellow citizens forced to leave family and their homes in search of jobs, education for their children and economic security. Little or no media coverage on what might be one of the largest population displacements ever seen outside of a war. One would think that it should be the other way around. Puerto Rico, a commonwealth of the richest nation in the world, should not be bankrupt, should not have such a high poverty rate, should not have so many citizens fleeing its shores. Cuba, an island that has endured a trade embargo for 60 years and imposed Communist rule, should be the one suffering such a fate. Perhaps the lesson to be learned here is that both systems have their faults when left unchecked. A totalitarian regime that limits the freedoms ztof its people and an unchecked free market system that saddles its people with huge debt burdens, both leave a lot to be desired. Returning to the shores of our own island, Wilton Manors, the summer heat is rising, the humidity is rising, and so are my FPL bills. The 2017 Hurricane Season has begun, so take some time to make a plan of action, bulk up on supplies, and get acquainted with the helpful information on the Wilton Manors and Broward County websites. It’s always best to heed the Boy Scout motto of “Be Prepared” so we can get over whatever hurdles we may face this Hurricane Season. Being ready for what might head our way will make it easier to say afterwards, “Life is just better here….” WMG
By mere definition of the word “liberal,” LGBT issues can be nothing but liberal.
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J.R. Davis • Pompano Bill • Steven Shires
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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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Business Owners Glad to Finally Have Parking Lot Improved By Michael d’Oliveira After years of potholes, cracked asphalt, and faded parking stripes, the parking lot of the shopping center where Old Florida Seafood was located has been resealed, restriped, and landscaped. Located on Northeast 26 Street, the once-dilapidated parking lot was considered an eyesore by city officials, and business owners felt it was hurting their bottom line. “It’s 100 percent better,” said John Yang, owner of Lotus Chinese Kitchen. Yang said business has increased since the improvements because he said some people thought the parking lot’s condition meant the shopping center was about to be demolished or redeveloped. “Any improvement is better than no improvement,” Yang added. “It’s a major improvement. It’s about time,” said Richard Stetler, owner of The Best Cellar. Lori Cobb, property manager for the shopping plaza, said that signage will be
added and additional painting will be done. She said the owners are also trying to get tenants to fill Old Florida Seafood and the other empty storefronts, such as where Jimmie’s Chocolates and J M Designs was located. “We’re open to any type of business, from art to retail to restaurant,” said Cobb. Commissioner Julie Carson and Commissioner Tom Green also praised the improvements. “It certainly looks a lot better,” said Carson, who called the parking lot “horrible” before. “This is an example of improvement in the city,” said Green. In April of 2015, Mayor Gary Resnick called the parking lot an eyesore which was discouraging businesses from coming into the city. Commissioner Scott Newton disagreed on the impact the parking lot was having but agreed it needed to be fixed. At a recent commission meeting, the mayor spoke about another unsightly property at the corner of Andrews Avenue and Oakland Park Boulevard and the
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Business importance of code enforcement as a tool to get property owners to maintain their properties. “Strong code enforcement is the greatest contributor to [high] property values.” Despite the improvements to the shopping center on Northeast 26 Street, itts days may be numbered. At least in its current form. In October of last year, Fort Lauderdale Commissioner and Wilton Manors attorney Dean Trantalis, who represents the owner of the plaza, which is located at Northeast 15
June 7, 2017
Street and Northeast 26 Street, said his client plans on demolishing the existing structures and building a mixed-use development that would include condos, retail space, and possibly a boutique hotel and parking garage. In October, he also said his client is working to attract joint venture partners for the project. An application for development could be submitted within the next 24 to 36 months. Any proposed development would have to be approved by the city commission. WMG Submitted photo.
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City
16 Townhomes Planned for Northeast 21 Court By Michael d’Oliveira Developer New Urban Communities wants to build 16 townhomes at 549 NE 21 Court, across from Hagen Park and behind Gables Wilton Park. Tim Hernandez, co-founder of New Urban Communities, which built the Bell Isle development on Wilton Drive, said he would put the application together in the next 30 days and hopes to get city approval sometime this year. If approved, he estimated it would take about 18 months to build the units. Currently, there are singlefamily homes on the site. “We haven’t figured out the exact architecture yet,” said Hernandez. But, he added, it will look similar to the Coda development that New Urban Communities built in Delray Beach. The units will feature two-car garages and a small pool and courtyard will be built in the center of the development. Hernandez estimated they would sell
If approved, the new development in Wilton Manors on Northeast 21 Court will look similar to New Urban Communities’ Coda development (pictured above) in Delray Beach.
in the $400,000 and $500,000 range. Hernandez said his company takes “great pride” in its projects and wants to be an asset to the city. WMG
Community
Manners Chosen as Town Manager of Biscayne Park By Michael d’Oliveira Krishan Manners, the former president of the Wilton Manors Development Alliance, has been chosen as village manager of the Village of Biscayne Park. Manners, who served as the interim village manager before being given the permanent position in May, joked that his hiring was like auditioning for a part in a movie or television show that he was already in. “I ran five departments . . . it gave me a leg up [in the hiring process].” After getting the job, he said his first challenge was to “staff up,” including the hiring of a new police chief and finance director. Located 25 miles south of Wilton Manors and incorporated in 1931, Biscayne Park is located in Miami-Dade County. One of the smallest municipalities in Florida, it has a population of 3,055 and is 0.6 square miles in size. Manners said Biscayne Park is similar to Wilton Manors in a lot of ways, such as being a small town with its own police department. The main difference though is that there are no businesses in Biscayne Park and there’s no
main street similar to Wilton Drive. “It’s a small, entirely residential community . . . middle class homes, lovely trees.” Before becoming village manager, Manners worked for Anthony LoGrande, owner of the Zig Zag Building in Wilton Manors. “I’m so sorry to have lost him. He worked for me for over a year. He was very instrumental in helping me rebrand the building, finding clients. [Becoming village manager] really matches his skill set,” LoGrande said. WMG
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Community
New Crosswalk Expected to be Finished by August By Michael d’Oliveira
Multiple residents and business owners have long demanded that Wilton Manors install a stop light and cross walk at Wilton Drive and Northeast 20 Street. In 2015, one man even threatened to block Wilton Drive if it wasn’t installed. Now, he and others have gotten their wish. The Florida Department of Transportation [FDOT], which owns Wilton Drive, will install a stop light and crosswalk at the intersection. The current stop light and crosswalk in front of city hall will remain in place and functional. It’s estimated that the new stoplight will be operational in August. Its instillation was announced in July of 2015, one day after Wilton Manors resident Greg Futchi, 68, a member of the Gay Men’s Chorus of South Florida, was killed crossing Wilton Drive near Northeast 20 Street. According to police, Futchi was not using a crosswalk when he was hit by a driver going southbound. Other accidents on Wilton Drive also involved pedestrians not using crosswalks.
Futchi’s death sparked a rally outside city hall organized by people who demanded that state and city officials make Wilton Drive safer. “We need the State to intervene,” Bill Spinosa, a Gay Men’s Chorus of South Florida member, told SFGN at the rally. “Too many people are dying. Something must be done to protect them.” “It should significantly increase pedestrian safety there at that intersection,” said Finance Director Bob Mays about the planned stop light. Wilton Drive and Northeast 20 Street is where commissioners wanted the current stop light located but FDOT officials placed it in front of city hall, they said, because they thought it would be the spot where a crosswalk would be most used by pedestrians. Asked if the second stop light would negatively impact traffic flow, Mays said “my understanding is there will be coordination between the two lights.” WMG
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Community
News
Check out what’s happening
Around Town
Officials Will address Fort Lauderdale Water Infrastructure Concerns By Michael d’Oliveira Photo Credit: City of Fort Lauderdale.
By Michael d’Oliveira
Water Chlorination The City of Fort Lauderdale will begin chlorinating the water system starting at 9 a.m. on Tuesday, June 20 and will continue through 9 a.m. on Tuesday, July 25. The chlorination will impact residents in Fort Lauderdale, Wilton Manors, and Oakland Park. WMG
Shred-A-Thon and Medication Disposal The Broward Sheriff’s Office will hold its monthly Shred-A-Thon and Operation Medicine Cabinet events on Saturday, June 10 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Oakland Park City Hall, 3650 NE 12 Ave. People who donate unused prescription medication will receive a $5 gift card. Sensitive documents can also be droppedoff and will be shredded for free. Call 954-831-8902 for more information. WMG
REACTION Exhibit Opens The opening reception of the exhibit REACTION will be Saturday, June 17 from 6 to 9 p.m. at the da Fonseca Contemporanea Gallery, 2201 Wilton Drive, Wilton Manors. The exhibit will feature photographs by Angelika Rinnhofer and Michael Gellatly. Visit dafonsecacontemporanea.com for more information. WMG
Kiwanis Safety Night The Kiwanis Club of Wilton Manors will hold its Safety Night event on Thursday, June 22 from 7 to 9 p.m. at its clubhouse, 2749 NE 14 Ave., Wilton Manors. The free event will include the “State of the City,” cyber safety tips presented by the Wilton Manors Police Department, zika prevention tips by Turner & Taylor Pest Control, and information on Sal’s Towing Save A Life program. Those who would like to attend are asked to RSVP by emailing kiwaniswm@gmail.com or call 954-2609797 or 954-729-0837. WMG
In response to concerns about Fort has been waiting for the report in order Lauderdale’s drinking water and sewage to prioritize repairs and come up with a pipe infrastructure, Wilton Manors plan. He said he’ll work with a new city officials said they would address them infrastructure board, then recommend a way forward. City commissioners with Fort Lauderdale officials. will decide how quickly, At the May 23 and at what cost, the commission meeting, Sal improvements will be Torre, president of the made.” Westside Association of “The city’s water and Wilton Manors, said he sewer customers have was concerned about seen their bills rise each a May 14 Sun Sentinel year. But money that article which stated that could have been spent of “The city’s system to repairs has been removed deliver drinking water from the system and from the tap, and to carry spent on other things like away what’s flushed, parks, public safety and has aging parts that other general expenses. could fail at any time, an The city is redirecting independent study of the approximately $20 million water and sewer system a year collected from . . . found.” water and sewer bills to The system serves - Sal Torre cover other city expenses,” hundreds of thousands President of Westisde reads the Sun Sentinel of residents, including Association of Wilton article. people who live in Manors “This should be Wilton Manors and frightening to everyone,” Oakland Park. Detailed in the article were incidents of burst Torre said. Mayor Gary Resnick said Wilton water mains and pools of raw sewage flooding various neighborhoods in Fort Manors officials are aware of the problem Lauderdale. According to the report, $1.4 and that they’ve already met with officials billion is needed over 20 years to fully from other cities which get their water from Fort Lauderdale. Their concerns, address the problem. “I think in the long run we’ll probably he said, would be addressed to Fort end up with a fairly large bond issue,” said Lauderdale. “There’s got to be a plan,” said Resnick. Fort Lauderdale Public Works Director Paul Berg in the article. “Berg said the city WMG
“The city’s system... has aging parts that could fail at any time, an independent study of the water and sewer system found.”
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COLUMN speak out
Speak
UT
June 12 will mark one year since the Pulse shooting in Orlando. What would you like to say about the tragedy or its aftermath? SFGN’s “Speak OUT” is a weekly feature giving a regular voice to South Florida LGBT leaders. SFGN Staff
“
It’s hard to believe it’s been a year. Sad that just recently the body camera footage was released. This has been one of too many shootings in America. Much like Sept 11 we’ve seen increased security in venues not usually targets. I feel this has brought us, an LGBTQI community together, too. A common scene of community has been felt.”
— R. J. Hadley, community activist
“
In 2015, Florida with 2,559 deaths was third after California with 3,095 and Texas with 3,203 in firearm related deaths. That’s not just numbers. Those are people. We need to be outraged. We need to fight! We need an end to grandstanding around the issues of gun violence. Instead we need real legislation of gun control and a logical reasoning behind the “need” for one. Only then, will the lives of our Pulse Brothers and Sisters not be in vain.”
— Meredith L Ockman, community activist and a director of NOW
Photo Credit: Jason Parsley.
“
A year later after the Pulse massacre, my heart still grieves for the victims and their families. I am forever grateful for the response of the Greater Orlando community and their friends from law enforcement and hospital staff to sports professionals and local residents who showed support for and solidarity with the LGBT community and everyone impacted by the massacre. Looking beyond Orlando and the local level, our nation no longer has a president advocating for sensible responsible gun safety or properly acknowledging the LGBT community within national policies or even with a basic Pride Month proclamation. The Republican-controlled Congress and the Trump White House has ignored us and how the Pulse tragedy targeted the LGBT community. Our national leaders are leaderless on this, so I remain proud to stand with those officials and activists who continue to advocate, resist, persist, and enlist for the needed change we must have. Just like with the killing of Matthew Sheppard in Laramie, Wyoming, we must work on all levels from politics to community outreach and education to make sure the Pulse victims in Orlando, Florida, not have died in vain.”
“
There is no making sense, or getting our arms and hearts around the mass murder of our family in Pulse. We know that it can, and probably will happen again in some other manifestation of fear and hatred, here or somewhere else. We must never forget, and we must dance with abandon.”
— Brian McNaught, noted columnist, author and LGBT activist
“Never Again!”
— Ruth Berman, LGBT activist
— Justin Flippen, Vice Mayor of Wilton Manors
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The Pulse massacre was a painful reminder that LGBTQ people are still demonized and dehumanized by many and the rhetoric of hate leads to actions of violence. It remains imperative that we affirm the inherent dignity of all people.”
“
This terrible tragedy and aftermath have brought about a stronger sense of community, pride and an imperative sense that we should love, respect and protect each other more than ever.”
— Tony Lima, Executive Director of SAVE
— Rev. Dr. Durrell Watkins, Senior Minister of Sunshine Cathedral, Fort Lauderdale
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Visit SFGN.com/SpeakOut to see more of this week’s responses. Send an Email to Jason.Parsley@sfgn.com if you know of an LGBT community leader that should be or wants to be a part of this list.
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OutGames red flags
Could OUTGames collapse
Been Avoided?
Two local organizers knew the organization was “shady”
Jason Parsley
W
hen the World OutGames canceled their 10day sports festival on the opening day it left thousands of athletes shocked, bewildered and
a tournament is eight. To put that in perspective their local annual tournament has 60 teams each year. “They came out for one final push and even agreed to angry. waive some fees,” Martin said. But that did nothing to How could something this big collapse on day one? With persuade him. no warning? If they had overcome the cost and location, they would Turns out there were plenty of warning signs and red have gotten to the next level of discussions flags leading up to the event. It’s still unclear why no where they would have run into a third one paid more attention to them. problem. Martin explained there are “They didn’t SFGN interviewed several local organizers to other long standing gay softball seem to care about tournaments that take place Memorial find out if there were any misgivings prior to opening day. There were plenty. Day weekend in other parts of the pulling teams away “It seemed shady from beginning to country. An OutGames tournament from other cities even end,” said Tim Martin, Chairman of would have potentially pulled teams when we told them that the South Florida Amateur Athletic away from them, causing a rift between bothered us greatly.” Association, the local LGBT softball himself and other leagues. league. “They didn’t seem to care about pulling - Tim Martin Martin told SFGN, OutGames teams away from other cities even when we South Florida Amateur Athletic Association approached him a year and a half ago told them that bothered us greatly,” Martin said. about organizing a softball tournament “As a league, we feel like we dodged a big bullet.” on their behalf. Eventually negotiations Martin wasn’t the only one SFGN interviewed who called between Martin and OutGames fell apart. World OutGames shady. The two biggest obstacles for Martin were that the fees “I thought they were shady from the get go,” said Kirk were too expensive, and they wanted the tournament held Arthur, a former captain of the Nadadores, the LGBT swim in Miami. Martin, who is familiar with Fort Lauderdale, team in Miami. “I refused to deal with them and passed the wasn’t willing to go down there and start from scratch. opportunity off to John [Grzeszczak].” “The fees for this would have been more expensive than OutGames initially approached Arthur to organize the our World Series,” he said, saying OutGames wanted about aquatics events, which includes swimming and water polo. $200 per person. Each team has between 13 and 18 players. “We made the OutGames pay up front for all our venues A typical tournament charges per team, not player. and events,” Arthur said. “We had no trust in their ability to OutGames organizers were persistent though, even execute something as complex as this meet.” approaching Martin one last time just two months before Grzeszczak, who is captain of the Hammerheads in Fort the event, telling him they had secured two teams from Lauderdale, was the next person in charge of organizing the California. Martin said the smallest number needed to host aquatics portion of the sporting festival.
And then everything fell apart. “There were problems from day one when they couldn’t even get control of their website,” he remembers. “These guys thought everybody was going to roll over and give them everything.” The last straw for Grzeszczak was one week after the early registrations had ended in September of 2016 and the aquatics venues needed to be paid. OutGames missed the payment. In response Grzeszczak quickly bowed out. “At that time I vowed not to do anything with the meet,” Grzeszczak said. “Every meet has hiccups. These hiccups were so much worse.” Once Grzeszczak quit, the Nadadores stepped in and took over the event. “Unfortunately, OutGames were responsible for a number of important things we had to do without, including transportation, essential equipment, volunteers, and even medals,” said Evan Matthew Cobb, Secretary, IGLA International LGBTQ+ Aquatics. Despite those issues most swimmers and organizers SFGN interviewed agreed the aquatics events went smoothly. “I think the Nadadores did a great job,” Grzeszczak said. “They did good job with a bad situation.” Arthur agreed. “The team had everything pretty well organized so even if OutGames didn’t deliver, the event would go on,” he said. And it did. “Thanks to [the Nadadores] efforts, we had all the essentials - pools, officials, and some great social events so we had a successful championship and 30th anniversary celebration,” Cobb said. “We welcomed over 600 athletes from more than 20 countries, and we’re also grateful for their patience, flexibility and understanding.”
During the Human Rights Conference at the OutGames. Photo Credit: Carina Mask.
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OutGames athletes
Basketball Players Rebound From
OutGames Fiasco
T
John McDonald
he Wilton Warriors will live on to play another day says team captain Chris Manning. Manning spoke with SFGN by telephone last week. He said was disappointed in the OutGames collapse. “We are not participating,” Manning said. “I wish there had been more communication.” For the Warriors, scheduling conflicts resulted in the team’s decision to not participate. “We all have job commitments,” Manning said. “The days they (OutGames) had us rescheduled to play just did not work.” Manning said the Warriors, however, are not deterred by the OutGames fiasco. He said the Warriors will continue to practice at Holiday Park Gym in Fort Lauderdale and are considering joining a local league. Manning played junior college basketball in his native Texas and was a member of the National Gay Basketball Association’s
Photo: Carina Mask.
Dallas ThunderCats. He said the Warriors are developing “A” and “B” teams for future competitions. The organization, he added, is eying a tournament this fall in Minnesota. While he acknowledges the disappointment some are feeling about the OutGames, Manning took to his personal Facebook page to offer words of encouragement. “Disappointment is an understatement,” Manning posted. “To my teammates I love every last one of you and our hard work and dedication will not go unnoticed. We will overcome this, the Warriors are here to stay! Much love and hugs men!”
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OutGames human rights
On the ground at
World OutGames Jillian Melero
T
he World OutGames Miami opened with its ‘Global LGBTQI Human Rights Conference’ Friday morning, May 26 at the Loews Hotel in Miami Beach. But by Friday afternoon, the conference was overshadowed by an email from WOG organizers that the sports programming and related ceremonies, scheduled to begin Saturday had been cancelled due to “financial challenges. The email also informed visitors that the human rights conference, and the cultural arts programs would continue as scheduled. Those programs were directed and organized by Lynare Robbins and Carol Coombes. Robbins said she was hired as an independent contractor to organize the human rights programming. “The women really stepped up and did their parts. They did what they were supposed to do,” Cindy Brown, former OutGames Board member, told SFGN. Brown was also part of the Miami Welcome Team that greeted conference goers on Friday. Arriving at the Loews, Friday morning, visitors with cars were asked to pay a $40 valet fee -- $25 after validation from the conference, at the hotel or park at a nearby public garage. During check-in, on the second floor,
Dan Oates, Miami Beach Chief of Police, briefs guests to expect heavy crowds and traffic during the busy Memorial Day weekend at the Human Rights Conference of the World OutGames Miami. Credit: Carina Mask
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Human Rights and Cultural Pillars Stand Strong While City Braces Sports Collapse
Robbins greeted guests with a smile and a handshake and their struggles, stories, and resources over the three-day thanked them for coming. conference. After a continental breakfast, Robbins and OutGames Brown lauded the efforts of Robbins, and of former volunteers brought visitors into the Americana Ballroom OutGames co-director Jim Wilets, for keeping the where they were greeted by the Miami Welcome Team, international focus on the conference. the first panel of the morning, at 8 a.m. Brown, along with former Miami In addition to Cindy Brown, the team included Beach Mayor Matti Herrera Bower, Tony Lima of SAVE, Robin Schwartz chairman were part of the core group who “What I want to of the LGBT Advisory Committee for Miami attended the games in Antwerp in do is focus all my Beach, and Lori Lynch Executive Director 2013 to make the bid for Miami. energy on human of the Miami-Dade Gay and Lesbian The first indication to visitors rights and put together Chamber of Commerce (MDGLCC). that the Memorial Day weekend Brown welcomed early morning might present a challenge came a conference that conference goers to the city, and during a brief safety and security really addresses the emphasized the focus of the presentation from Detective Juan issues that we all face conference – global and international Sanchez, LGBT Liaison and Dan Oates internationally.” efforts toward human rights. Chief of Police for Miami Beach. “From the beginning when I was “We want to tell you, it’s an unusual - Cindy Brown asked to participate I said my interest weekend for us, for those who don’t know was in the human rights conference, Miami Beach, the Memorial Day weekend is culture is great, sports [are] great, but what I traditionally the busiest weekend for the year in terms of want to do is focus all my energy on human rights and put visitors, in fact it is such a busy weekend, that we actually together a conference that really addresses the issues that borrow police officers from around the county to help we all face internationally,” police South Beach,” Oates said. Brown said. “The other thing that’s going on this weekend and this Guest speakers included is brand new for us is the Air & Sea Show. They’re going to Moninne Griffith, who be flying from noon on Saturday to 3:30, and on Sunday, discussed the struggles of so if you’re sitting here in the conference you may hear LGBT youth and bullying some interesting noises -- they’re actually going to be in Catholic Ireland. Tamara practicing later this afternoon –- that is a new event for Adrian who talked about her Miami Beach, we don’t know how many people we’re fight to pass LGBTQI equality going to get, we could get a 100,000 people on the beach, laws in the Venezuelan so it’s an unusual weekend for us.” National Assembly. Nadine That afternoon, after practice for the Air & Sea show Smith of Equality Florida started, guest speakers in the second-floor salons who touched upon gun were occasionally interrupted by the sound of aerial culture and gun violence maneuvers. in the wake of Pulse. Shane In addition to outside interference, there seemed Ortega who talked about his to be a lack of volunteers to set up audio and video for fight for LGBT soldiers to be guest speakers. Many presenters dealt with sound issues, recognized and serve openly malfunctioning microphones, too much reverberation in in the U.S. armed forces. And the large empty salons, or no microphones at all. many others who shared Conference-goers, shouted their assistance to guest
OutGames human rights
Robin Schwartz, Chairman of the LGBT Advisory Committee for Miami Beach sits on the welcome team for the Human Rights Conference at the World OutGames Miami. May 26, 2017. Photo Credit: Carina Mask
speakers from across the ballrooms. “Hold the microphone to your mouth and keep it there!” Herrera Bower said to Shane Ortega. “You need to enunciate; we can’t understand you!” another attendee advised Tamara Adrian. The situation was almost comical, until the email announcing the sports cancellations went out to registrants Friday at noon. There was no announcement made regarding the cancellation on the OutGames website or on social media until a Facebook post Monday, May 26 at noon. OutGames organizers estimated 2,000 athletes would be arriving from more than 60 countries, along with more than 40,000 spectators. What the final numbers were have yet to be confirmed at time of publication. Many of the athletes had flown into Fort Lauderdale and Miami on Thursday, or were arriving at advertised host hotels in the area Friday. They had all submitted registration fees in various amounts months in advance. “For the board to cancel everything on the first day of the actual event is unforgivable,” Colin Bodels, registered to race in the half marathon, told SFGN via email. “I have friends in the air over the Atlantic flying in from Sweden, Belgium, the UK and elsewhere. This is unconscionable and smacks of not (disorganization) but greed and reading more and more like a scam to get money. I’m looking forward to seeing/hearing how they respond to requests for refunds or fraud.” Friday night the opening ceremony for the human rights conference, originally scheduled at the National hotel, was instead held at the Loews, without announcement. A memo from Miami Beach City manager Jimmy Morales on Thursday night detailed, among other financial challenges, that OutGames organizers owed the National $57,000, the Miami Herald reported. The Miami Beach police, and the Florida State Attorney’s office announced they would be investigating OutGames organizers over misappropriation of funds. Saturday starting at 7 a.m. with the Air & Sea show and Urban Beach Week in full swing, the Memorial Day weekend traffic plan also went into effect. Ocean Drive was closed to all vehicular traffic, Collins Avenue became one-way northbound, and Washington Avenue became one-way southbound. Law enforcement resources, already stretched thin, redirected traffic along the intersections, making movement among the different venues difficult for conference goers, guest speakers, and still arriving athletes. Congestion was so heavy, Uber waived cancellation fees apologizing for delays in the area. Athletes who had previously been told that main registration would be at the National Hotel, were also
being slowly rerouted to the Loews. By Friday afternoon most of the athletes had followed the series of “OutGames registration relocated” signs through the first and second floors of the Loews, to the “New York” rooms, to find out that their events had been cancelled. Reporters from the Miami Herald captured Facebook live video of OutGames athletes asking Cano for answers in the relocated offices before Cano quietly closes the door on reporters. Robbins told SFGN she had no prior notice that the sports programming would be cancelled, but after the announcement she resigned from her position, but continued on as a volunteer to help with rescheduling events and assisting international travelers. Throughout the weekend, the cultural arts programming and human rights conference continued. In addition to Robbins, Brown said the volunteer efforts of Tori Bertran, Melba de Leon, Augusta Zimmerman, and Jennifer Love, who all helped with the conference, also deserved to be recognized. Sunday morning the closing brunch for the human rights conference, changed from a back patio outdoor affair at the Loews, to an indoor brunch. But the evening concluded with a happy hour at the poolside lounge. On Monday, an OutGames Facebook post reiterated that the sports programming had been cancelled, but 24 hours later another post announced that volunteer efforts to
reschedule and host the sporting events were underway. The City of Miami Beach along with the Greater Miami Convention and Visitors Bureau (GMCVB) and the Miami Dade Gay and Lesbian Chamber of Commerce (MDGLCC) collaborated with organizers to reschedule the week’s events throughout Miami. Chairman of the LGBT Advisory Committee for Miami Beach Robin Schwartz also recognized the efforts of the GMCVB in making the best out of the situation. “I don’t know what caused the failure of the WOG Miami organization to deliver what they promised. I do know that I am extremely proud to have been a part of the LGBTQ community pulling together to make lemonade out of lemons,” Schwartz said. “I know everyone wants to know what happened to cause the last-minute cancellation. I believe we need to wait for the investigation to be complete to get that answer. For now, we do know that despite everyone’s shock over the last-minute cancellations, we all stayed focused on doing what was possible to give the athletes sporting events in which to compete, spaces to celebrate and show that the City of Miami Beach and the community here welcome them with open arms.” If you’d like to recognize an individual or organization who helped host events, or assist international travelers, let us know by sending an email to webmaster@sfgn.com.
The Board of Directors for the Miami Beach LGBT Sports and Cultural League Inc. (World OutGames) includes: • Bruce Townsend, President • Ivan Cano, Vice President, • Keith Hart, Treasurer,
• Jerry Torres, Secretary, • George Neary • Nick Tierno
The website lists Cano as Chief Executive Officer, Hart as Chief Operating Officer, and Jordan Selders as Director of Sports. The Facebook page also lists Marc Brown. The office address is 1210 Washington Ave, Suite 220, MB. The phone number is
786-276-9559. 6.7.2017 •
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Feature pets
Tails of Legend
Four-year-old Squeakers (ID 576041) sadly was given up because someone developed allergies. This 15-pound gal is described as being quite the princess. She loves to be held and will even perch herself on your shoulder while you sit on the couch. Squeakers enjoys using a scratching post, likes running water from the faucet and she gets along with calm dogs. Oh, and one other thing… she likes to tell you stories, so be sure you’re ready to listen.
Squeakers
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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‘
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Under New Management Daily Lunch Specials 2045 WILTON DRIVE • WILTON MANORS, FL 33305 • 754.223.2172 6.7.2017 •
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J.W. Arnold
jw@prdconline.com
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In Remembrance
film Hunky Tom Cruise is back on the big screen this weekend in the latest reboot of “The Mummy.” The chiseled action star, who first captivated us as a teen with his underwear clad performance in “Risky Business,” battles a buxom ancient Egyptian queen (Sofia Boutella) who was unjustly entombed. She is unexpectedly awakened from eternal slumber to exact her revenge. Check local listings for theaters and show times.
FRI
6/9
drag The Ultimate Miami competitions are back at Magic City Casino, 450 NW 37th Ave. in Miami. In addition to finding the ultimate comedian and bartender, the judges will crown Miami’s top drag queen tonight at 9 p.m. Sharon Needles and Jinxx Monsoon are your hostesses with the moistest for the cutthroat competition that will feature many of the region’s most talented female impersonators. Tickets start at $25 at TheUltimateMiami.com.
Friday
6/12
Community
The Pride Center at Equality Park, 2040 N. Dixie Hwy. in Wilton Manors, commemorates the one-year anniversary of the Pulse attack with a flag hanging ceremony. A framed flag that flew over the U.S. Capitol on June 12, 2016 will be placed on display at 6 p.m. in the main hall of the Shubert building on the LGBT community center campus. Free, the public is invited. More information at PrideCenterFlorida.org. Photo Credit: Wikipedia.
SAT
6/10 SUN
6/11 MON
6/12 TUE
6/13
concert
event
nightlife
theater
The South Florida Pride Wind Ensemble, Jazz Ensemble and Steel Drum Band celebrate Pride month with a concert of music by LGBT composers tonight at 7 p.m. at the Broward Center in Fort Lauderdale. The program, conducted by artistic director Dan Bassett, includes classical and contemporary works by Aaron Copland, Leonard Bernstein, Samuel Barber, Benjamin Britten and more. Tickets are $30 at BrowardCenter.org.
To commemorate the one-year anniversary of the Pulse shootings in Orlando, the Arsht Center in Miami hosts the Communi-Tea Dance this afternoon at 4 p.m. on the Thomson Plaza for the Arts, outside the Ziff Ballet Opera House. DJ Hottpants and Deejay Smeejay will spin, with performances by Tiffany T Fantasia, Queef Latina, Ann Atomic, Jupiter Velvet, Kat Wilderness and The State Of. Free, more information at ArshtCenter.org.
“Turnabout” is an annual tradition at Georgie’s Alibi in the Shoppes of Wilton Manors, 2266 Wilton Dr. The popular bar’s staff all don genderbending costumes and perform on stage for their patrons. This year’s theme is “Gays in Space” and is sure to be out of this world as the staff boldly go where no drag queen has gone before. Proceeds benefit Safe Schools South Florida. For more information, go to AlibiWiltonManors.com.
The Broadway Across America season at the Broward Center in Fort Lauderdale concludes this week with “Finding Neverland,” running through June 19. The optimistic musical, directed by Tony winner Diane Paulus, tells the story of “Peter Pan” creator J.M. Barrie, along with the life-changing events and people who shaped the tale of a magical boy who refused to grow up on the island of Neverland. Tickets at BrowardCenter.org.
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PAID content
Top 4 Reasons For Teeth Whitening This Summer Due to its many benefits, teeth whitening is becoming increasingly more and more popular across the nation. Because tooth whitening being so easily accessible and affordable, it has become one of the fastest cosmetic procedures to date. Now that summer has arrived, it may be a good time to begin whitening if you haven’t done so already. You want your smile looking flawless when taking those endless family vacation photos or those nights out with friends. Let’s take a look at the top 4 reasons why it might be a good idea to begin tooth whitening this summer:
1. Bye, bye tooth stains No matter how well you brush, tooth discolouration can still occur and is more common than what many people tend to think. For most, teeth staining is due to the following factors: ▶ smoking ▶ drinking coffee and wine ▶ drinking canned beverages and soft drinks ▶ eating foods like berries, curry, pasta sauce ▶ not properly brushing for a long time. With one single treatment, teeth whitening can improve your teeth up to 8 shades whiter! To reduce tooth discoloration when drinking these beverages, try using a straw instead. This will prevent the liquid from coating the surrounding enamel of your teeth.
2. Confidence Boost Can teeth whitening actually increase a person’s confidence? The answer is, absolutely it can! A lot of people will intentionally smile with their mouths closed due to many factors but one being that their teeth may not look as white as they want. Teeth whitening can help solve this issue and boost confidence to face the world with a bold and beautiful smile. Teeth whitening may be just what you need to give you the confidence to face any social gathering with ease.
3. Age-is it really just a number? Teeth whitening can actually help with the aging effect. According to the dentist association, stained teeth can make someone look up to 10 years older. Diet does play a big role in how quickly your teeth yellow. However, people do not consider this when you smile. You will be amazed at how much younger you will look by applying a simple tooth whitening treatment.
4. Say cheese! Lastly, summer is of course picture season. With events like birthday parties, weddings, bachelor and bachelorette parties, graduations, eating out, etc, you want to make sure your smile is nothing less than perfect. Tooth whitening can make sure you are picture ready for any occasion. It’s more than likely these pictures will be see by lots of people whether it’s on social media, in a photo album, or just browsing through a smartphone. No matter the celebration, you want to have peace of mind that you can smile confidently with no fear of discolouration. Give tooth whitening a try to see the difference in all 4 areas mentioned above. We believe it will make all the difference and mostly importantly, you will feel that much better about yourself. Call Premiere Smile Center at (954) 566-7479 if you have any further questions about tooth whitening treatment. Let us help you make the important decision to make sure you have the whitest smile possible this summer.
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A&E theater
“The Legend of Georgia McBride” cast includes, left to right: Clay Cartland, Sean Patrick Doyle, Tom Wahl and Dave Corey. Photo Credit: George Schiavone.
Review: ‘Legend of Georgia McBride’ is No Drag
J.W. Arnold
L
et’s clarify that headline just a bit: “The Legend of Georgia McBride” at GableStage in Coral Gables IS a play about drag AND the feel-good hit of the summer, guaranteed to provide a welcome respite from global warming. GableStage’s politically minded artistic director Joseph Adler was quick to point both out in his curtain speech, noting the sandbags piled around the entrance to the theater located in the tony Biltmore Hotel. Current events were quickly forgotten as the lights rose for Matthew Lopez’s comedy: Casey (Clay Cartland) is an Elvis impersonator struggling to eek out a living at Cleo’s, a beachfront Panama City honky tonk. When his wife, Jo (Jade Wheeler), announces she is pregnant, the financial implications are hardly his foremost concern—until his boss Eddie (Dave Corey) announces that he is replacing Casey’s Elvis act with a drag show. Eddie’s cousin, Miss Tracy Mills (Tom Wahl), will headline the act, backed up by her bitter, inebriated sidekick, Miss Annarexia “Rexie” Nervosa (Sean Patrick Doyle). If the father-to-be wants to keep a job at the club, he’ll have to serve drinks behind the bar. When “Rexie” becomes incapacitated on opening night, Casey faces a choice to don heels and wig or take a walk. His reluctant decision sends him on a journey of self-discovery. That’s really all you need to know about the play. Lopez’s story is not completely original, drawing inspiration from some of the best moments of “La Cage aux Folles,” “Torch Song Trilogy,” “To Wong Fu…” and “The Birdcage” with a little sprinkling of “RuPaul’s Drag Race” shade thrown in for good measure. Yes, there are the obligatory references to the drag queens who incited the Stonewall Riots and
the continuing abuse many LGBT people face every day, lessons not lost on the older, mostly “straight, not narrow” audience at the Sunday matinee. And, Jo’s surprise revelation that her husband is supporting the couple by dressing up and performing as a woman is completely predictable and telegraphed from the earliest scenes. Cartland is immediately likeable as the everoptimistic Casey. The Carbonell Award-winner is known for his unique brand of physical comedy, showcased especially in the drag lessons conducted under the patient tutelage of Tracy. He fumbles with falsies and stumbles around in stilettos and delivers hilarious moments of high camp drag in outrageous costumes by Ellis Tillman. The funniest scene involves the evolution of his first drag persona, gay icon Edith Piaf singing “Padam, Padam.” Cartland had the audience giggling as he adapted the tricks of the trade to the mannerisms of the quirky French chanteuse. “Whenever you don’t know the lyrics, just repeat ‘watermelon, motherfucker’,” Tracy explains. Wahl is a confident and knowing “drag mother” throughout the entire transformation, always believable, empathetic and sincere, and does a credible job himself performing as Barbra, Judy and Cher. Doyle (who also does double duty as Casey’s landlord Jason) provides comic relief, delivers the moving history lesson and later performs the best drag performance of the show as Cyndi Lauper. Not to be overlooked, Lyle Baskin’s multilayered set takes advantage of the theater’s unconventional, wide performance space, quickly and effectively transforming between the couple’s apartment, the dressing room and nightclub stage.
GableStage presents Matthew Lopez’s “The Legend of Georgia McBride” through June 25 inside the Biltmore Hotel, 1200 Anastasia Ave. in Coral Gables. Tickets are $60 at GableStage.org.
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June 7 - June 14
Datebook
Theater Christiana Lilly
Calendar@SFGN.com
Top
Picks
South Florida Pride Wind Ensemble: Celebration
* Girls Only: The Secret Comedy of Women
June 14 to 25 at the Broward Center, 201 SW Fifth Ave. in Fort Lauderdale. After going through their girlhood diaries, the creators put together a show with sketch comedy, improv, songs, videos, and audience participation. Tickets $35 to $45. Call 954462-0222 or visit BrowardCenter.org.
* The Goldberg Variations
June 10 at 7 p.m. at the Broward Center, 201 SW Fifth Ave. in Fort Lauderdale. The ensemble is joined by the Jazz Ensemble and Steel Drum Band to celebrate gay and lesbian composers. Tickets $30. Call 954-462-0222 or visit BrowardCenter.org.
June 15 to July 16 at Island City Stage, 2304 N. Dixie Highway in Wilton Manors. The Goldberg family throws a party every year in honor of their late grandmother’s birthday, but when Caleb tries to switch things up, his boyfriend and family spin the event out of control. Tickets $35. Call 954-519-2533 or visit IslandCityStage.org.
Gipsy Kings
Proof
June 11 at 8 p.m. at the Kravis Center, 701 Okeechobee Blvd in West Palm Beach. For decades the band has infused Spanish flamenco, gypsy, and salsa funk. Tickets $29 and up. Call 561-8327469 or visit Kravis.org.
LAST CHANCE: It Shoulda Been You
Through June 11 at the Actors’ Playhouse at the Miracle Theatre, 280 Miracle Mile in Coral Gables. A bride and groom from completely different backgrounds are set to marry, until the bride’s exboyfriend unleashes some surprising news about who the bride is really into! Tickets $57 to $64. Call 305-444-9293 or visit ActorsPlayHouse.org.
* Denotes New Listing
broward county Ann Wilson of Heart
June 8 at Parker Playhouse, 707 NE Eighth St.in Fort Lauderdale. The lead of ‘80s band Heart, Wilson performs favorites like “Barracuda,” “Alone,” “Crazy on You,” and “What About Love.” Tickets $47.50 to $97.50. Call 954-462-0222 or visit ParkerPlayhouse. com.
* Finding Neverland
June 13 to 25 at the Broward Center, 201 SW Fifth Ave. in Fort Lauderdale. A playwright is at a dead end creating his new play, until he meets four young brothers who inspire Peter Pan. Tickets $29.85 and up. Call 954-4620222 or visit BrowardCenter.org.
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Through June 18 at Empire Stage, 1140 N. Flagler Drive in Fort Lauderdale. Catherine is caring for her aging father, a brilliant mathematician. She comes across an old notebook that gives her more questions of her father’s past and her future. Tickets $35. Call 954-650-5938 or visit NewCityPlayers.org.
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 * Dierks Bentley, Cole Swindell and Jon Pardi
June 17 at 7 p.m. at Perfect Vodka Amphitheatre, 601-7 Sansburys Way in West Palm Beach. Dierks Bentley hits the road for his What the Hell Tour with Cole Swindell and Jon Pardi. Tickets $40 and up. Call 561-795-8883 or visit WestPalmBeachAmphitheatre.com.
Free Friday Concerts
Fridays at 7:30 p.m. at the Delray Beach Center for the Arts, 51 N. Swinton Ave. in Delray Beach. Enjoy live music from the comfort of your picnic blanket or lawn chair every week, for free! Returns in October. Call 561-243-7922 or visit DelrayArts.org.
miami-dade county Daryl Hall & John Oates and Tears for Fears
June 7 at 7 p.m. at AmericanAirlines Arena, 601 Biscayne Blvd. in Miami. The ‘80s soft rock duo goes on tour with Tears for Fears in
a 29-city North American tour. Tickets $31 to $125. Call 786-777-1000 or visit AAArena. com.
including Lin-Manuel Miranda’s “21 Chump Street.” Tickets $39. Call 305-949-6722 or visit ArshtCenter.org.
Volcanic
Outdoor Music Series
Through June 10 at the Miami Theater Center, 9806 NE Second Ave. in Miami Shores. A part of the “Mujeres” Sandbox Series, a dance solo by Carlota Pradera personifying the collision of earth, fire, and ice to give rise to a heroine. Tickets $25. Call 305-751-9550 or visit MTCMiami.org.
Summer Shorts
Through July 12 at the Arsht Center, 1300 Biscayne Blvd in Miami. The annual short play festival presents a brand-new line of 10-minute plays and mini-musicals,
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.
ALL-INCLUSIVE... AS NEWS
SHOULD BE AS DIVERSE AS EVER
Whether you are in the bisexual or transgender communities, are asexual, gender-fluid, pansexual, or maybe you still aren’t sure, SFGN is proudly here to connect you with the rest of our colorful community.
www.SFGN.com
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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
attorney law office of Gregory Kabel 1 East Broward Blvd #700, Fort Lauderdale, 33301 954.761.7770 gwkesq@bellsouth.net
counseling Complimentary copy of
Sex Happens: The Gay Man’s Guide to Creative Intimacy by Dr. Arlen Keith Leight
call us to reserve space!
a&e Ft Lauderdale Gay Men's Chorus PO Box 9772, Ft Lauderdale, FL 33310-9772 954-832-0060 www.theftlgmc.org Gay Men’s Chorus of South Florida PO Box 39617, Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33339 954-763-2266 Gaymenschorusofsouthflorida.org
For A Limited Time Only Hurry While Supplies Last To claim your complimentary book go to: www.MarriageCounselingForMen.org/contact
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Florida Cannabis Consultants Everything you wanted to know about opening a dispensary but were afraid to ask.
954.763.2900 68
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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
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
financial services
professional 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
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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
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VOTED pest control
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William D. Turner taylorandturner@yahoo.com 2520 North Dixie Hwy Wilton Manors, FL 33305
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Tennis Lessons at Hagen Park in Wilton Manors. Individual or group lessons. Call Robert 732-604-0362 for more information.
2 bedroom/2 bath condos
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Fort Lauderdale, Wilton Manors & Oakland Park REMODELED homes:
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The Parish of Sts. Francis and Clare
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Realtor
954.205.5275
SFGN Classified$ To place a Classified Ad, call Tim Higgins at 954.530.4970 or email at Tim.Higgins@sfgn.com
arrangements
piano
HISTORIC EVERGREEN CEMETERY - AVAILABLE: 2 Prime Spaces at Historic Evergreen Cemetery. Fort Lauderdale’s unique and beautiful resting place located near the Rio Vista neighborhood. Generous discounted price. Call 954-937-1610
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.
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
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
electrician
employment wanted
Wilton Manors on Drive (Gay Bar) Experience Bar Staff Needed, Immediate Openings Available • Cook: Part & Full Time (Small Menu & Finger Food) • Bar Backs: 2 Part Time • Bartender: 1 Full Time & 2 Part Time. For Application Apply at office (Mon - Fri 9am-5pm) 3500 Powerline Rd. Oakland Park, FL 33309. Interviews will be scheduled to discuss to details at bar.
furnished housing SHORT TERM APARTMENT RENTALS
PERFECT FOR RELOCATION - Fully furnished & equipped Studio & One Bedroom Available for 3 to 6 month lease, all inclusive of Utilities, Premium cable, Wi-Fi & Taxes from $1400 to $1600/month. First & Last month rent plus Security required. Weekly vacation stays also welcome. Pets Welcomed. Gay Owned & Operated. Call 954-927-0090.
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
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
painting
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=$1190.00 cable included. Credit & Income Requirements-Pets okay with restrictions Call for Details Mike 561- 703-5533 or miketherentalguy@ aol.com Quiet Residential Neighborhood - Wilton Manors 1/1. Tile floors, laundry room on premises, A/C’s, ceiling fans, hurricane shutters, parking. Small pet ok. F/L/S 850.00 Call John for more details 954-560-2971
sfgn.com real estate wilton manors WALK TO WILTON DRIVE - Large 2/2, New Kitchen, Updated Baths, Tile Floors, Central A/C, Laundry, Private Backyard, walk-in Closets, $1500/month ,First & Security to move in. Call 954-815-2550 for more info.
real estate new construction
UNITED REALTY GROUP - Building in Hollywood, Coconut Creek, and Lauderdale Lakes. Staring in the 200’s, 2 & 3 Bedrooms, 1 & 2 Garages available with building incentives. Call for details Michael 561-703-5533 or email mkltub@aol.com for more info.
professional services
BAJJ Storm Protection, Inc. Hurricane Impact Windows & Storm Shutters - Residential & Commercial
Family Owned & Operated 20 + Years Experience Licensed & Insured References Senior & Veteran Discounts
FINANCING AVAILABLE Call JOE - Operations Manager cell: (954) 494-0366 Office: (954) 927-8108 Schedule a FREE Project Quote
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