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January 12, 2011 • Volume 2 • Issue 2

Behind the Lens & Music of Kyle Poffenbarger PAGE 26 INSIDE THIS ISSUE

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Report on LGBT Suicide

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Memorial for Gay Couple

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Gay Hero in Tucson

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Pompano Bill Turns 85

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January 12, 2011 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

Health

New Vaccine to Prevent Anal Cancer

January 12, 2011 • Volume 2 • Issue 2

Editorial Offices 2520 N. Dixie Highway • Wilton Manors, FL 33305 Phone: 954-530-4970 FAX: 954-530-7943

Norm Kent Publisher and Editor in Chief publishernorm@southfloridagaynews.com

Will Have Significant Health Implications for HIV+ Men

Pier Angelo Guidugli

Chief Executive Officer Creative Director. . . . . . . . . George Dauphin george.dauphin@southfloridagaynews.com Online Website Director. . . . . Dennis Jozefowicz

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Editorial

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n December 22 the Food & Drug Administration (FDA) approved the human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine, Gardasil, for the prevention of anal cancer in people between the ages of 9 and 26. The National Minority AIDS Council (NMAC) applauds the FDA’s decision, believing it will have a significant impact on the health of both HIV patients and HIVnegative men who have sex with men.

While anal cancer is relatively rare, it affects men who have sex with men and

Managing Editor . . . . . . . . . . Joey Amato joey.amato@southfloridagaynews.com Lifestyle & Features Editor. . . A. Sebastian Fortino sebastian.fortino@southfloridagaynews.com

Political Affairs Editor . . . . . . Jarrett Terrill jarrett.t@southfloridagaynews.com

people living with HIV at a significantly higher rate than the general public. According to researchers at the University of California, San Francisco, gay and bisexual men are about 20 times more likely to be diagnosed with anal cancer than the general population, while that likelihood is almost 40 times higher for men living HIV.

What’s more, while anal cancer affects women at a higher rate than men, health outcomes are considerably poorer for men, particularly African American men. According to the National Cancer Institute, the 5-year survival rate among white women is approximately 71 percent, compared to only about 62 for white men. Among African American men, that number drops significantly to roughly 51 percent.

“The FDA’s decision to approve Gardasil for the prevention of anal cancer is a promising step for public health, particularly for the HIV community,” said Paul Kawata, executive director of NMAC. “Anal cancer disproportionately affects men who have sex with men, and people living with HIV. The use of this vaccine could have a significant impact on both comorbidities and potential treatment costs within these populations.”

Arts/Entertainment Editor . . . Mary Damiano marysfgn@gmail.com SFGNites Editor. . . . . . . . . . . JW Arnold Business Editor . . . . . . . . . . . Richard Gary Senior Features Correspondents . . . . . . . . . . J esse Monteagudo Tony Adams Correspondents. . . . . . . . . . . P enn Bullock Alex Escobar Steve Fritz Jason Shutts Contributing Columnists. . . . W ayne Besen AJ Cross Susan Estrich Brian McNaught Leslie Robinson Editorial Cartoonists. . . . . . . S teve Sack Darryl Smith Calendar Editor. . . . . . . . . . . Matthew Clark

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SFGN, as a private corporation, reserves the right to enforce its own standards regarding the suitability of advertising copy, illustrations and photographs.

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January 12, 2011 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

New Report Focuses on LGBT Suicide Calls for Broad Action to Address Knowledge and Prevention Gaps

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the authors found limited emn expert panel of 26 pirical evidence of higher rates of leading researchers, clisuicide deaths in LGBT people, nicians, educators and mostly because sexual orientapolicy experts have released a comtion and gender identity are not prehensive report on the prevalence indicated on death records in the and underlying causes of suicidal U.S. and most other countries. behavior in LGBT adolescents and • Although multiple studies adults. The report will be published Ann Haas point to elevated rates of depresonline in a special edition of the sion, anxiety and substance abuse among Journal of Homosexuality on January 5.

Titled “Suicide and Suicide Risk in Les- sexual minority people, the panel found that bian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender Popu- these problems, by themselves, do not aclations: Review and Recommendations” the count for the higher rates of suicide attempts report makes sweeping recommendations that have been reported by LGBT people.

Thus, the consensus report identified for closing knowledge gaps in what is known and not known about LGBT suicide behav- stigma and discrimination as playing a iors and calls for making LGBT suicide pre- key role especially acts such as rejection vention a national priority. This is especially or abuse by family members or peers, bultimely in light of multiple suicide deaths lying and harassment, denunciation from religious communities and individual disamong LGBT youth in recent months.

Despite four decades of research pointing crimination. The report also highlighted to elevated rates of suicide attempts among evidence that discriminatory laws and pubLGBT people, national suicide prevention lic policies have a profound negative impact initiatives, including the 2001 U.S. National on the mental health of gay adults.

• In a series of recommendations, the Strategy for Suicide Prevention, have given scant attention to suicide risk in sexual mi- consensus panel called on LGBT organizations to lead efforts to encourage early idennority persons.

“With this report and recommendations, tification of depression, anxiety, substance we hope to move LGBT suicide prevention abuse and other mental disorders among squarely onto the national agenda and pro- LGBT people, and push for the developvide a framework for actions aimed at reduc- ment and testing of a wider range of culturing suicidal behavior in these populations,” ally-appropriate mental health treatments said Ann Haas, PhD, lead author and Direc- and suicide prevention initiatives.

• The consensus panel called for revision tor of Prevention Projects for the American of diagnoses pertaining to transgender Foundation for Suicide Prevention.

Haas adds: “It’s time for the federal gov- people in the 5th edition of the Diagnostic ernment, suicide prevention agencies, men- and Statistical Manual (due out in 2013) to tal health professionals, policy makers and affirm that gender identity, expression and LGBT organizations to join together to behavior that differ from birth sex is not inbring this problem out of the closet and dicative of a mental disorder.

• Other recommendations focus on imwork toward effective solutions.” proving information about LGBT people by measuring sexual orientation and genKey Findings and der identity in all national health surveys Recommendations: • The report cites strong research evi- in which respondents’ privacy can be addence of significantly elevated rates of life- equately protected, and encouraging retime reported suicide attempts among LGBT searchers to include such measures in genadolescents and adults, compared to compa- eral population studies related to suicide rably aged heterosexual persons. However, and mental health.

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January 12, 2011 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

Local News

photo courtesy of AHF

AHF’s ‘Out of the Closet’ Thrift Opens in South Beach

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IDS Healthcare Foundation (AHF) opened its newest ‘Out of the Closet’ thrift store location in South Beach with a grand opening event on-site at 1510 Alton Road last Saturday, January 8. The festive opening offered shoppers the chance to discover the unique finds and hidden treasures for which ‘Out of the Closet’ is famous.

During the day long event, free HIV testing was offered. In fact, free HIV testing hours at Out of the Closet will be every Saturday & Sunday from 12-5PM and Monday - Friday 2-7PM. With twenty other locations throughout California and Florida, AIDS Healthcare Foundation’s popular and award winning ‘Out of the Closet’ thrift store chain is the nation’s largest retail fundraising vehicle for HIV/AIDS medical care and research.

The new South Beach location is the third ‘Out of the Closet’ to open in Florida. Other Florida stores are in Wilton Manors and on Biscayne Boulevard in Miami.

Later this spring, the South Beach site will also be home to an ‘AHF Pharmacy,’ a fullservice facility staffed with pharmacists who specialize in HIV/AIDS medications as well as the location of an ‘AHF Healthcare Center’ providing a full spectrum of HIV medical care, providing clients with access to the

additional specialists, medications and services they need to be as healthy as possible.

“AHF is pleased to be opening its newest ‘Out of the Closet’ thrift store in the heart of Miami’s South Beach,” said Michael Weinstein, President of AIDS Healthcare Foundation. “Ninety-six cents of every dollar raised through our new South Beach store will benefit AIDS Healthcare Foundation’s HIV/ AIDS prevention and education programs in Miami-Dade County and statewide.”

“I am so excited,” said one of the shoppers, Mark Arkine, a UM student seeking to furnish his dorm room, “I got myself a new dresser for my books for $20.” Other consumers waded through an assortment of clothes, appliances, and inexpensive furniture.

“The state of Florida is third highest in the nation as far as cumulative AIDS cases, and there remains an urgent and ongoing need for effective and sustained HIV prevention and education measures,” said James Vellequette Associate Director, Public Health Division for the Southern Bureau for AIDS Healthcare Foundation. “AHF is glad to be a contributing partner in the effort to address the region’s epidemic by offering free HIV testing at our new South Beach ‘Out of the Closet’ store in this convenient, community-based setting.”

January 12, 2011 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

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January 12, 2011 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

SFGN BRIEFS Navy Officer Removed From Post From Advocate.com The Navy officer behind a series of videos featuring simulated sex and antigay slurs has been permanently removed from his post as commander of the USS Enterprise, according to ABC News.

ABC reported that he had been temporarily relieved of duty pending an investigation. Admiral John C. Harvey Jr., commander of Fleet Forces Command in Norfolk,Va., said Honors’s “profound lack of good judgment and professionalism while previously serving as executive officer on Enterprise calls into question his character and completely undermines his credibility to continue to serve effectively in command.”

Honors will be replaced by Capt. Dee Mewbourne, who most recently commanded the carrier USS Dwight D. Eisenhower.

The videos, produced by Honors and shown to the crew of the aircraft carrier in 2006 and 2007 while he was second in command, were first posted Saturday by The Virginian-Pilot.

The videos feature two female sailors

standing in a shower stall aboard the aircraft Chick-fil-A Drops carrier, pretending to wash each other. In Antigay Event other skits, the newspaper reported, “sailors The Chick-fil-A name has been removed parade in drag, use anti-gay slurs, and simufrom banner ads promoting a marriage late masturbation and a rectal exam. Another event sponsored by the antigay Pennsylvania scene implies that an officer is having sex in Family Institute. his stateroom with a donkey.”

The company tweeted that it was “looking Actor Glenn Close into the issue” on Tuesis deeply offended by day but has yet to issue her appearance in a an official statement. raunchy video. Close Chick-fil-A had been issued the following listed as a sponsor for statement to The February’s “The Art of Washington Post: Marriage” event, spon“I am distraught sored by the conservathat my image has tive, antigay group. been used to perpetThis isn’t the first time uate something that the restaurant chain has I abhor. The cynical, been taken to task for Chick-fil-A: hard to ‘swallow’ unauthorized use of its support of antigay my image in this video is deeply offensive and groups. In 2009, Change.org reported Chickinsulting, and was the result of a seemingly Fil-A had supported Focus on the Family. innocent request of me during a visit to the That group, founded by the Reverend James aircraft carrier over four years ago.”

Dobson, endorses so-called reparative therClose appears near the end of the video apy programs in efforts to turn gays straight while holding a stuffed parrot directly follow- and has donated hundreds of thousands of ing a shot of condoms and lube. dollars in support of antigay legislation.

Marriage Equality in R.I.?

Energized by the support of newly sworn in Gov. Lincoln Chafee (pictured), gay rights advocates reintroduced a bill in Rhode Island’s House last week to legalize marriage equality.

Rep. Arthur Handy said in an interview Wednesday he has already lined up 27 co-sponsors and was hopeful he could get more. He said he would reintroduce the bill regardless of the number of supporters he had in his corner.

Openly gay House Speaker Gordon D. Fox is the bill’s other lead sponsor. He said he hopes the House will vote early in the session before budget concerns take priority.

Handy says the bill is identical to legislation he introduced last year.

Chafee declared his support for marriage equality while being sworn in last week.

“When marriage equality is the law in Rhode Island, we honor our forefathers who risked their lives and fortune in the pursuit of human equality,” Chafee said during his speech.

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January 12, 2011 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

SFGN BRIEFS Lesbian Priests Tie the Knot

Figure skater Weir comes out

The Rev. Mally Lloyd and the Rev. Katherine Ragsdale, two high-level Episcopal priests, married in Massachusetts on New Year’s Day. According to LGBTQ Nation, which reported via the Patriot-Ledger, “The Rev. Lloyd and the Rev. Ragsdale were married in a ceremony at the Cathedral Church of St. Paul in Boston, with about 400 guests attending. Bishop M. Thomas Shaw, the state’s highest ranking Episcopal official, presided.”

Rev. Lloyd is a ranking official of the Episcopal Diocese of Massachusetts. Rev. Ragsdale is dean and president of the Episcopal Divinity School in Cambridge.

LGBTQ Nation reports that while the Episcopal Church’s canons state that marriage is between a man and a woman, the church at its General Convention in 2009 passed a resolution that says, “bishops, particularly those in dioceses within civil jurisdictions where same-gender marriage, civil unions or domestic partnerships are legal, may provide generous pastoral response to meet the needs of members of this church.”

U.S. figure skater Johnny Weir came out of the closet as gay Thursday confirming long-running speculation about his sexual orientation.

The 26-year-old had previously declined to discuss the matter but finally addresses it in a new memoir, “Welcome to My World,” which People magazine is excerpting in its Jan. 17 edition. The book drops Tuesday.

“I’m not ashamed to be me,” Weir writes. “more than anyone else I know, I love my life and accept myself. What’s wrong with being unique? I am proud of everything that I am and will become.”

Weir says he realized he was gay at age 6 when he wanted to kiss Richard Gere after seeing “Pretty Woman.”

Weir is a three-time U.S. national figure skating champion. He has never medaled at the Olympics but many observers say he should have placed higher at last year’s Olympics – he finished sixth.

Weir, a graceful, fluid skater, is known for his over-the-top costumes and theatrical choreography.

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January 12, 2011 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

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January 12, 2011 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

Memorials Held for Gay Couple Murdered in Manors

By Norm Kent

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memorial service was held last Saturday, January 8, at the Pride Center at Equality Park to celebrate the lives of Stephen Duane Adams, 52, and his partner, Kevin Mark Powell, 47, the Wilton Manors gay couple who police now believe were shot and killed in their home on Christmas Eve. Powell’s family was represented at the noon service by his mother, brother and sister, Jean, Anthony, and Crystal Kicklighter. Powell’s sister remarked that the couple were together “longer than Adam and Eve,” and that “their love was the kind most people never embrace.” Powell was an interior designer whose work was featured in trade magazines.

Meanwhile, in Youngstown, Ohio, the family of Stephen Duane Adams also conducted a memorial service, with a number of nurses from the Cleveland Clinic in Ohio attending. Stephen and Kevin had lived in

Stephen Duane Adams

Cleveland for over 20 years, before relocating to South Florida in 2000. Adams had earned a Bachelor of Science degree in nursing from

Bowling Green State University.

The moving service in Wilton Manors included the release of two white doves by Kicklighter and her brother to commemorate the life of the couple that met in Cleveland at a gay pride event 29 years ago.

Another friend, Mark Grassini of Fort Lauderdale, brought two palm trees to plant at the Pride Center, along with some plants.

Speakers at the intimate memorial service included Wilton Manors Mayor, Gary Resnick, and City Commissioner Julie Carson. Words of comfort were also offered by Rev. Tita Calzada from Unity Church of Fort Lauderdale.

Said another family friend, Anna Tousey-Johnson, of the couple: “Their lives impacted many and radiated the love that they so graciously gave.”

Friends of Kevin Powell and Stephen

Duane Adams also posted their memories on Facebook. One touching comment came from Andy Wirth, a lifelong friend from Wyoming, where Powell had grown up: “A kind and gentle soul...with an incredible smile and infectious laugh. We had a ton of fun growing up and living in the ‘hills’. From ballet to running through the sagebrush.”

Stephen was the oldest of four Adams children. Added Marci Craig, his sister, “Stephen and Kevin were so kind and compassionate. Stephen would never hurt a soul,” she said.

“All three of us agreed that he was the confidant and was a good listener. He could find the positive in any situation,” she said.

Craig said her brother originally planned to go into the business field and attended what is now the Mahoning County Career and Technical Center before deciding to enter nursing.

The suspect in the killings, Peter Serge Avsenew, 26, was arrested a few days after the murder in upstate Florida, in possession of the victims’ stolen car and some of their personal items. While in jail on a no bond hold for probation violations, a grand jury has not yet indicted him for first degree murder in the slayings.

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January 12, 2011 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

LBT Women Art Expressions, at the Pride Center at Equality Park

By A. Sebastian Fortino

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n January 13, from 6 to 9 p.m., the Pride Center will showcase the work of eight local women artists. An eclectic collection of watercolors, oils, photographs and sculptures will be displayed while complementary champagne will flow during the reception.

“This art show is just the beginning of the Pride Center’s effort and commitment to raising the profile of women in our community,” said Donna Woessner,Women and Senior Services Coordinator. “The Pride Center recognizes the increasing need for more social, educational and health-based programming for women.”

“We are very excited to excited to provide a safe, nurturing space for women to share their creative spirit,” added Paul Hyman, Executive Director of the Pride Center.

For more information, please visit PrideCenterFlorida.org

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January 12, 2011 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

Kristofer Fegenbush to Be Deputy Director at the Pride Center

By Richard Gary

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he Pride Center stands poised for expanded, enriched service to the community. To fulfill this goal, the Center recently appointed Kristofer Fegenbush, MSW as Deputy Director.

An established local HIV programming manager, Kristofer will oversee programs, operations, marketing, facilities and various administrative functions at the Center. By providing quality leadership internally, the new Deputy Director role will allow Executive Director Paul Hyman and the Board of Directors to capitalize on opportunities for continued revenue and community development.

“We can do more. And we can do it better,” states Fegenbush. “Through program development and quality improvement, our staff and volunteers will deepen our impact in the community. Every day we evaluate how we can better support and assist our friends and neighbors in an inclusive manner. How can we better serve youth? How can we better serve women? How can we creatively, richly expand our advocacy and commitment for seniors, peoples of color, peoples of ethnic and linguistic diversity, transgen-

der persons or our straight allies? Trust me: we’re just getting started.”

Kristofer has served as PALS Project Manager at the Center for the past five years.

The PALS Project offers health education, wellness empowerment, risk-reduction counseling, service linkage and emotional and practical support to GBT men living

with HIV in South Florida. PALS helps people lead safer, richer lives.

“We must do a better job of telling the stories of the lives changed here every day,” says Fegenbush. “I’m excited to help spread the word about the people who our staff and volunteers impact with their passionate work and service. Good work happens daily. Our community needs to know.”

Assuming the PALS Project Manager role will be Frank Gurucharri. Frank enters his third year with the Center, as PALS Project Behavioral Health Specialist. He has a long history of effectively managing various programs and initiatives and is well-regarded by PALS Project clients, graduates, volunteers, staff and Health Department officials.

“Volunteers, members, staff, the Board and I are strong admirers of Kristofer’s commitment to high quality, solid management and down-toearth warmth. He is a gifted contributor and a valued partner. As Deputy Director, Kristofer will expand his legacy of effective community service” states Paul Hyman, Executive Director.

Fegenbush completed his Masters of Social Work at Florida International University in 2007. Before leading the PALS Project,

Kristofer Fegenbush worked for three-anda-half years at CenterOne/AIDS Project Florida. He served both as Assistant to the Executive Director and as a well-known, active Case Manager.

Kristofer graduated Summa Cum Laude from Washington and Lee University in Virginia, with degrees in Politics and Mass Communications. Uninspired by a future in politics, Kristofer spent three-and-a-half years in Mexico, working for a local, faithbased grassroots organization. His work alongside local leaders with street kids, churches, gang members and foreign nationals provided him with a deep love and respect for Latin culture and the Spanish language. This nonprofit work eventually led Kristofer to Miami, where he worked as Director of Recruiting for the Latin America Mission, an international nonprofit specializing in community development work.

A proud Kentucky native, Kristofer has lived in Florida for over a decade. He currently shares a home in Fort Lauderdale with his partner of 9 years, local realtor Robert Eldredge.

The Pride Center provides a welcoming, safe space—an inclusive home that celebrates, nurtures and empowers the LGBTQ communities and our friends and neighbors in South Florida.

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January 12, 2011 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

Foreclosure vs. Bankruptcy – Which Is Best for You? Jake Miller Explains the Pros and Cons

By Joey Amato

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any individuals still believe that filing for personal bankruptcy protection is like wearing a scarlet letter. However, Jake Miller, principle of Jake Miller Law is determined to clarify the advantages and disadvantages of filing for bankruptcy versus foreclosing on your home.

One of the main advantages in you will stop receiving collections calls. “As soon as a debtor files for bankruptcy, there is an automatic stay and most creditors must stop their collection efforts. Thus, the debtor can begin rebuilding his or her credit. Financially-speaking, the debtor can start over,” states Miller.

In addition, certain categories of property, mainly homestead or primary residences, may not be taken by creditors after a debtor files for bankruptcy. “This protection may also include motor vehicles up to a certain value, some clothing and household furnishings, life

insurance and portions of earned wages.”

Obligations to repay debts are erased through the discharge of the debts during the bankruptcy process. Therefore, the debtor is no longer legally liable for the debts, which will help a debtor’s ability to maintain a reasonable level of credit payment history over the course of the next ten years.

“On the contrary, there are some disadvantages to filing bankruptcy. Most importantly, it will affect your credit for at least 7-10 years,” Miller tells us. Other disadvantages include losing credit cards and nonessential possessions, the inability to obtain a mortgage and embarrassment, which Miller explains is always top of mind when people inquire about his services.

As a general rule, Miller advices anyone who has acquired more than $5,000 of credit card debt, and whose home value is upside down to file for bankruptcy instead of foreclosing on

their home. The Chapter 7 filing process takes approximately 90 days to complete.

“Individuals with debt under $5,000 are better off directly negotiating with creditors for settlement.”

Miller also explains, that bankruptcy doesn’t erase past due child support or alimony payments, and other debts resulting from divorce settlement agreements, student loans, income taxes that are less than three years past due or debts incurred by fraudulent means, such as writing a bad check or providing false information on a credit application. In a foreclosure case in Florida, the bank has up to five years to come after the borrower for the deficient amounts.

“One common problem after emerging from bankruptcy is that credit reports frequently show accounts as open and overdue, when in fact they were closed and the obligations wiped out as part of the bankruptcy,” states Miller.

They need to contact - themselves or with a credit repair company - the credit bureaus and insist that those accounts be properly reported as “included in bankruptcy.”

Miller also recommends obtaining a secured credit card, which generally gives a credit limit that’s equal to an amount they deposit at the issuing bank, typically $200 to $500. “They should not be charging more than 30 percent of the credit limit, and users need to pay the balance off in full each month,” he states. “Light, regular use of a credit card is what helps build up credit.”

To learn more about the services offered by Jake Miller Law, please visit Jakemillerlaw.com. Jake Miller will be conducting a seminar discussing various foreclosure defense strategies and bankruptcy techniques at the GLCC Pride Center on January 18 and 25. For information about the seminar, please see his ad on page 4.

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January 12, 2011 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

Northern Trust Reaches out to LGBT Community

management strategies for decades and have the experience to deal with unique legal, tax and wealth transfer challenges.The creation of this group will help ensure our strategic focus will be executed more broadly across our network.”

By Joey Amato Mark Braun has been named the orthern Trust, a leading pronational practice liaison focused on vider of financial services building relationships with LGBT individuals for individuals, families and institutions anand families, community organizations, and nounced today the formalization of a LGBT other advisors to ensure Northern Trust’s and Non-Traditional Family Practice. services and support are being delivered to The new practice will provide fiduciary the greatest benefit to clients. Braun had and wealth management services to help meet the unique needs of LGBT individuals previously served as a private banker to successful families and individuals. and non-traditional families.

Northern Trust has a longstanding comJohn McGowan has been named the national practice leader responsible for imple- mitment to the LGBT community. Over the menting the program in markets throughout years, the company has supported important LGBT initiatives, such as contributing generthe United States. McGowan has more than ously to the building campaign for Center on 24 years of industry experience. Previously, he served as a senior relationship manager in Halsted, the Midwest’s premier LGBT comNorthern Trust’s Wealth Management Group, munity center, and by becoming a national sponsor of Lambda Legal, the national orgaa specialized unit focused on addressing the nization devoted to bringing legal equality to complex financial needs of ultra high-net LGBT people. Northern Trust was also one worth families and their family offices. of the first financial services companies to “Northern Trust recognizes the definition begin offering domestic partnership benefits of family has evolved,” McGowan said.“We have been helping LGBT clients develop wealth to employees more than 13 years ago.

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January 12, 2011 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

Brian McNaught

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“We gotta

sking if Sarah Palin, and others who use inflammatory rhetoric, share blame for the attempted assassination of U.S. Rep. Gabrielle Giffords is like asking if spilling gasoline around a house had anything to do with its destruction by fire. Palin, Glenn Beck and Rush Limbaugh, among others, didn’t light the match, but they encouraged someone else to strike it, and despite their “shock” that anyone would look their way, they’re not without personal guilt. But neither are any of us who didn’t complain loudly that we smelled gas.

Anti-gay bullying by straight Jared Loughner and deeply-closeted sailors in the U.S. Navy can likewise be attributed to when something really bad happens? If we the homophobic rhetoric of Captain Owen smell gasoline, we need to say so.

Despite corporate rules, or state laws, Honors, chief officer on the U.S.S. Enterprise, who used anti-gay slurs in his video there are managers and high volume procommunication with his 5,600 crew mem- ducers in stores, offices, and manufacturing bers. He doused his sailors with gasoline, plant floors across America whose unchalbut no one, until the video was finally leaked lenged, hostile rhetoric creates havoc in the day-to-day lives of gay and lesbian people. to the media, spoke up about the fumes.

If the head of your political party places a People ask us gay and transgender people, target on someone and repeatedly uses the “Did you speak up?” “Did you complain?” terminology “lock and load,” and if your They’re good questions.

If we don’t speak up and complain commanding officer repeatedly refers to gay sailors as “fags,” there is an increased each time we hear an unwelcoming comlikelihood of violence. But don’t we all ment, we allow an inflammable agent to be share some blame if we had the ability to poured. But an equally good question is, “Did you?” Ending the vitriol is everyone’s speak up, and didn’t?

The violence in the Arizona parking mall, responsibility, not just that of the Demoand the offensive videos shown on board the crats, or of the gay man or woman.

A gay man with years of abusive experiNavy aircraft carrier, may seem far away and much removed from our lives, but we all live ence as a banker told me yesterday that he in the environment created by the rhetoric was recently asked why he didn’t complain of the cultural wars, and there is a Captain when his colleagues consistently called him Owen Honors in almost every place in the “Rainbow Man.” He said “I did. No one did country. When we fail to speak up in the anything about it.” What’s worse than not movie theater, the elevator, the grocery store, complaining is not doing anything about the family gathering, the ball park, the sub- it when you’re in a position of authority. way, the diner, the cab, or wherever we find Teachers complained to the college adminisourselves, how can we say, “Isn’t that awful?” continued on page 31

January 12, 2011 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

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16

January 12, 2011 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

SFGN Editorial

January 12, 2011

35 Years Later, A New Gay Hero in a Shooting Norm Kent, Publisher

I

t’s 35 years later, but a gay man has courts found, Sipple, and thus his sexual again apparently saved the life of a orientation, had become news.

Supposedly, Sipple’s reward for saving the federal official.

Daniel Hernandez ran into harm’s way life of the President of the United States was last Saturday to come to the aid of Con- that his mother never spoke to him again.

Daniel Hernandez, on the other hand, is gresswoman Giffords after she was shot by this lunatic kid Loughner, who clearly is a openly gay, a member of Tucson’s city commission on gay, lesbian, bisexual and transfew croutons short of a salad. gender issues. A 20-year-old It brings to mind the gay congressional college intern former marine, Oliver Sipwith only five days on the job, ple, who took down Sara his actions are being applauded Jane Moore outside the St. on gay blogs as well as in mainFrancis Hotel in San Franstream newspapers. cisco on Sept. 22, 1975, as In Arizona, legislators gave President Gerald Ford was him a standing ovation. Senaleaving the building. He Daniel Hernandez tor McCain did not say whethdisarmed the would be aser he could serve in the military or not. sassin after she got a shot off.

At the time, Sipple was not ‘out’ to his Actually, McCain and his VP choice, Sarah family or the world. The news coverage ‘shoot-em-in-the crosshairs’ Palin, are both which followed brought his sexuality into looking like fools now.

Shakespeare wrote that ‘To thine own self the news, and it compromised his life considerably. He was just not ready for the truth. be true, and it follows, as the night, the day, Sipple even sued the San Francisco thou canst not then be false to any man.’

Chronicle’s Herb Caen and several newspa- You never know when the sun is going to pers for invasion of privacy, but his case was shine on you and bring light to your life. dismissed. By taking the action he did, the It could be an illuminating glow which in-

spires others, or it may be a glare that shows you naked. Either way, you had best be ready for the moment.

On Saturday, January 8, 2011, a young gay man, Daniel Hernandez was up to the task, and he became a true hero, allowing America to see once again that you measure a man by what he does with his clothes on in the daytime, not who he does at night in the privacy of his bedroom.

Maybe as the National Gay and Lesbian Task Force plans its latest muscle beach party to line their coffers they will celebrate the lives of some gay men and women who have actually achieved something other than a pirouette on a skateboard.

Letters, We Got Letters Comments on: Double Murder in Manors DEAR EDITOR: Our prayers are with the families of the victims. The loss of these two men is more then a statistic of anti-gay crime. The victims memory will remain in our hearts forever and their contributions to our community will not be forgotten.

Each and everyone of us play a part in making our community safe and welcoming.

Let us join together and not hate, but teach our neighbors the wisdom of good judgement. While we wait for this story to unfold, we can start now by embracing our friends and teach others the good of mankind.

No victory or revelation harping on what is wrong or bad, we as a community can only make things right by educating each other, being mindful of our surroundings and positive that our contributions will in some small way shape our society. We have just one chance at life, let us restore our integrity and work toward making our community a better place.

Leadership, is about making a difference.

There is not a sol e who can walk in the shoes of another. We can only reach out to help a friend. The will to learn is in all of us, take advantage of the opportunity life offers and make the world a better place. We are on this journey together, let us make the best of it!

Michael DEAR EDITOR: South Florida is a toilet. I finally left because the crime had become so bad and the police aren’t interested in sending a message to the thugery that antigay violence won’t be tolerated.This is a sad story but I’m glad I left.

Daniel Hernandez comforts Congresswoman Giffords as she is wheeled into an ambulance after being shot.

Rocco

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January 12, 2011 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

Jarrett Terrill

Seeing Beyond the Fray Tucson Tragedy Highlights People of Great Character

W

e get to add two heroes to the honor roll this week, Daniel Hernandez, a gay intern who quite probably saved the life of Democratic Representative Giffords and Gabby Giffords herself. But the heroic qualities I speak of most certainly do not stop there. A great number of surgeons, nurses and staff at University Hospital have been working tirelessly to bring the congresswoman back from the brink of death. Even employees at the Safeway Grocery Store brought sterile absorbents from the deli counter out to treat the wounds of those shot in the tragedy on Saturday.

Both MSNBC and CNN reported on the brave and efficient actions of Daniel Hernandez without mention his sexuality, so Joe Jervis went ahead and disclosed that information on his blog.

Also, many people were curious to see just what kind of Representative Giffords was and if they happened to look at her voting record on the issues, they would find that she has supported every single piece of equality-based legislation that has gone before the House of Representatives. This includes the Mathew Shepard Act, DADT Repeal and even ENDA (Employment NonDiscrimination) which the Democratic ma-

Wayne Besen

The Bombast and the Body Count

W

hile the world focused on the tragic Arizona shootings, another horrific crime took place in New York City. The New York Post reported today that a Portuguese male model tortured and murdered his “sugar daddy” in a Manhattan hotel. For more than an hour, Renato Seabra, 20, beat Carlos Castro, 65, before he castrated the older fashion journalist with a wine corkscrew.

Seabra (pictured) said he murdered the journalist “to get rid of Castro’s homosexual demons”. The suspect then declared, “I’m not gay anymore!”

Like the Arizona assassin, Jared Loughner, there is no doubt that Renato Seabra is profoundly disturbed. However, that does not absolve those who placed the dangerous idea that homosexuality is attributable to demons in Seabra’s head. Where might he have gotten such a notion?

We can start with the “ex-gay” organiza-

resentative Giffords. She jority passed but still had just been elected to has not been passed by her school government the Senate. and was quite pleased to Mrs. Giffords is also be palling around with the wife of an astronaut her congresswoman. She whose twin brother is was also the only girl on also an astronaut and her school baseball team. she has four kids. She Gabby Giffords is still is befriended by Florilisted in critical condida’s own Debbie Wastion but doctors have serman-Schultz who is said that there is hope currently being sworn and she has been alert in for the new congresand shown signs of being sional session. Schultz able to communicate and had planned a press respond to stimulus. conference to discuss Congresswoman Giffords The persons who were Republican plans to regreeting a constituent killed in Saturday’s attack peal healthcare reform but sent out a cancellation due to recent in Tucson, Arizona were Christina Green events. GOP lawmakers in the House agreed (age 9), Gabriel Zimmerman (age 30), Fedto a temporary postponement of the repeal eral Justice John M. Roll (63), Dorothy Morris (76), Dorwan Stoddard (76), and Phyllis measure as well.

Perhaps most tragic during the attack in Schneck (79).

Tucson was the loss of a young school girl named Christina Taylor Green who attend- To learn more about the victims please visit the ed the small outdoor event as a guest of Rep- tinyurl.com/JoeJervisTucson

ality is evil and then offers a remedy, which is to “stand up” against the perceived evil spirits and not stand “idly by”.

In Jeff Sharlet’s latest book, “C Street: The Fundamentalist Threat to American Democracy”, a Ugandan man justifies supporting the death penalty for gay people because, “They” – the gays – “are trying to end the human race.”

His comments sound strikingly similar to Focus on the Family’s founder James Dob-

tion Exodus International, where its President, Alan Chambers, once wrote, “One of the many evils this world has to offer is the sin of homosexuality. Satan, the enemy, is using people to further his agenda to destroy the Kingdom of God and as many souls as he can.”

Chambers also told a crowd of social conservatives, “We have to stand up against an evil agenda. It is an evil agenda and it will take anyone captive that is willing, or that is standing idly by.”

Given this harsh rhetoric, it is understandable that an unbalanced individual distressed about his sexual orientation might resort to violence. After all, Chambers Renato Seabra, accused of murder clearly states that homosexu-

son, who once told The Daily Oklahoman newspaper that same-sex marriage will “destroy the earth.”

This week, Pentecostal preacher Cindy Jacobs warned that the repeal of Don’t Ask/ Don’t Tell has caused God’s wrath, including the “potential that there is something that actually happened in the land where a hundred thousand drum fish died and also where these birds just fell out of the air.”

It is irrelevant whether Sebra or Loughner were directly influenced by the “spiritual warfare” of these preachers or the Tea Party’s vitriol. What matters is that the constant demonizing of certain groups of people – whether minorities, liberals, or employees of the federal government – sets the stage for bloody reprisals.

Social conservatives would likely counter that sanguinary acts come from the hands of deranged individuals. Technically, this is true – however public figures generally understand that a small percentage of their audience is unhinged from reality. So, providing fiery rhetoric that can incite mentally ill people to take criminal actions is grossly irresponsible and an abdication of moral leadership.

A perfect example of this disconnect is Rush Limbaugh. Even as he defended right wing extremists today from accusations that continued on page 32

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January 12, 2011 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

Miami City Ballet Dazzles with Eclectic Program

By J.W. Arnold

F

or the second presentation of its 25th season, Miami City Ballet (MCB) offered an eclectic program that showcased the versatility, grace and athleticism of South Florida’s leading company.

Opening last Friday at Miami’s Arsht Center, MCB bookended the performance with works by legendary choreographer George Balanchine – artistic director Edward Villella’s mentor and the company’s bread and butter – “La Sonnambula” and “Western Symphony.”

For the former, a one-act ballet translated as “The Sleepwalker,” the stage of the Ziff Ballet and Opera House was transformed into an exotic European garden framed by lush greenery and flanked by an Italianate tower. Set at a masked ball, “La Sonnambula” features four main characters, a baron (Isanusi Garcia-Rodriguez), a coquette (Callie Manning), the poet (Carlos Miguel Guerra) and a sleepwalker (Jennifer Carlynn Kronenburg).

After charming the coquette, who is the baron’s mistress, the poet later becomes entranced by the sleepwalker, the baron’s

wife, and disappears into the tower with her after a beautiful pas de deux. When the jealous coquette informs the baron, he stabs the poet in a rage, but, the most shocking moment occurs when the sleepwalker reemerges and carries his body away.

“La Sonnanbula” is classic Balanchine, showcasing both the ensemble and soloists.

Manning and Guerra display incredible chemistry in their initial dance that is only marred

by Manning’s heavy, calf-length dress that obscures her beautiful form and technique like drapery blowing in the wind. And Kronenburg delivers a mesmerizing, almost haunting performance as the sleepwalker, gliding across the stage as if in a flawless trance.

Opening the second act was the company premiere of Twyla Tharp’s “Baker’s Dozen,” featuring exactly that, a dozen of the company’s dancers, performing vignettes in various groupings of twos, threes and more to the jazz piano music of Willie “The Lion” Smith, as performed by Francisco Renno.

The light-hearted music set the tone for the work, sometimes jazzy and other times suggesting ragtime and even tango and

Mary Carmen Catoya and Kleber Rebello in Diana and Actaeon.

Latin rhythms. Dancers, costumed in breezy crèmes, entered from the wings, sometimes interacting with each other, sometimes not, but each offering a whimsical, carefree statement that accompanied the music perfectly.

The second act concluded with “Diana and Actaeon,” a pas de duex danced by Mary Carmen Catoya and Kleber Rebello.

Based on the characters of classical Greek lore and set to the music of Romantic composer Riccardo Drigo, this short work was a perfect fit for Catoya and Rebello, who displayed grace and athleticism throughout with effortless leaps and turns that brought spontaneous applause from the audience.

While the empty stage seemed bare for a traditional ballet, especially after the lavish set for “La Sonnambula,” the couple utilized every inch of the stage for their powerful performance and all eyes were focused on the muscles of the dancers, which were freed from the constriction of tights.

The conventions of classical ballet take on the unbridled excitement of the frontier in Balanchine’s “Western Symphony,” a large, four-movement work set in the dusty

Choreography by George Balanchine © The George Balanchine Trust. Photo © Kyle Froman.

19

January 12, 2011 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

prairies of the Wild West and performed to a complex score based on familiar folks tunes like “Red River Valley.” With the men in cowboy hats and the women dressed as haughty saloon girls, the stylized caricatures of the 1950s—think “Davy Crockett” and “Gunsmoke” —are presented in a series of dances featuring a diverse cast of soloists and the entire corps de ballet.

While the dancers delivered an electrifying performance, particularly at the stunning ending, again classic Balanchine,Western Symphony also showcased the versatility of the accompanying orchestra, which returned for this season under the capable baton of Gary Sheldon. Both matrons and patrons alike were tapping their toes throughout the performance and jumped to their feet for the curtain calls.

Miami City Ballet brings “Program II” to the Broward Center for the Performing Arts in Fort Lauderdale, Jan. 14-16, and repeats the program at West Palm Beach’s Kravis Center for the Performing Arts from Jan. 28-30. For tickets or more information, go to MiamiCityBallet.org.

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January 12, 2011 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

Nightlife by J.W. Arnold

W O W N O iS riS N S e t E n i !

N i E s wES ’N t ! i L E h E i E gL a, R d E i F houE td id S R r n o e l i E F v E S uth F get aEOK So k! till K oo O k! SM L o o W M L E S NEW sh N

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The Architecture of a Great Weekend

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2031 Wilton Drive • Wilton Manors, FL • 954.563.8001

ach January, residents of Miami Beach (and most of the rest of South Florida, for that matter) converge on the city’s history Art Deco district for a weekend celebrating the area’s distinctive architecture.

Artists and crafters will be selling their wares, antique car aficionados displaying their autos, and food vendors hawking everything from cheesy arepas to syrupy snow cones.Tour guides will lead gaggles tourists to the landmark buildings on Ocean Dr. and Collins Ave. And, not to be forgotten, the beautiful people will be out in force (before sunset), exposing their pecs and abs for all to admire, making “people watching” the best activity of the weekend.

We’ll be taking the spectacle in from a bar stool at the epicenter of all the action, The Palace, 1200 Ocean Dr.The Palace will be offering up plenty of action of its own this weekend, too: On Friday, kick off the weekend with happy hour beginning at 3 p.m., but pace yourself because Sunset Dragness starts at 7 p.m. On Saturday, Drags Gone Wild starts at 7 p.m. and the big event on Sunday is Brunchic at 11 a.m.

For those of you who freak out at the mention of a crowd of tens of thousands crowding the streets (psychiatrists call it enochlophobia), here’s a look at some of the other highlights for the week ahead: Wednesday, Jan. 12

Y

ee Haw! If you like a little country fun, Lady Fancy is hosting her Country Jamboree tonight at Scandals Saloon, 3073 NE 6th Ave. in Wilton Manors. Lady Fancy presents her “stable” of country legends and don’t forget an opening monologue from Miss Minnie Pearl, too.

Thursday, Jan. 13

B

oom, the longtime popular nightclub in the Shoppes of Wilton Manors, celebrates its 10th anniversary this weekend and tonight is customer appreciation night. Enjoy the open bar from 8 to 10 p.m.

Later, slurp down $3 Long Island iced teas to the beat of DJ Paulie. What a way to celebrate this milestone of a gayborhood institution!

Friday, Jan. 14

T

rendy Lincoln Road in South Beach is always hopping on a Friday night and you’ll likely find the action at Score, 727 Lincoln Rd. DJ Mac is rolling back the clock to 1979 for a big Boogie Nights party featuring the Penny Back Boyz. Doors open at 10 p.m., so dig out those polyester leisure suits for a blast from the past.

Saturday, Jan. 15

P

lanning on dancing the night away? You’ll be welcoming Mr. Sunshine on Saturdays at Discotekka, downtown Miami’s late night club. Enjoy the action and shows, but pace yourself because the after hours party gets started at 4 a.m. with DJ Carlos G. Sunday, Jan. 16

B

adboy DJ Peter Rauhofer makes another South Florida appearance tonight at The Manor.There’s nothing like a long weekend—it’s MLK Jr. Day on Monday—to whoop it up on a Sunday night and this guy will certainly deliver as the popular Wilton Manors nightclub is transformed into the Haus of Ra Ra. Doors open at 10 p.m. and tickets are $15 before 11 p.m. and $20 after.The Manor is at 2345 Wilton Dr. in Wilton Manors.

21

January 12, 2011 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

Bobby Anderson Minding His Manors

By Jarrett Terrill

“E

By Karl Hampe

THE REGULARS

verything I need is within three blocks of my house,” Bobby Anderson says in defense of his decision to move to Wilton Manors after having sworn he wouldn’t.

He’s a transplant from Washington D.C. and comparatively, living in South Florida is “laid back”.

“It’s very peaceful here,” he smiles. “I like that you can go a mile east and there’s the beach… but if you need something more high energy, there’s always Miami.

People aren’t rushed here; they don’t knock you over trying to walk.”

Bobby needs this kind of relaxed atmosphere during his “down time” because his nights are anything but laid back. He works at The Manor as a waiter and VIP bottle host. It’s a job that requires an energetic personality and well, it can be exhausting. In fact, he only has so much time for interviews and photos because he needs to find and set aside 20 additional minutes in his routine just to lace up his new shoes for the evening – a pair of knee-high black leather converse all-stars. (Yes, they really make those.)

“We offer a VIP club experience,” he

tells me. “To get in on that, you would go to TheManorComplex.com and make a reservation and order your bottle of wine from our list. We have two different VIP areas, one is down at the dance floor and the other is elevated at the Mezzanine level.

I find that people tend toward the first one because they like to be in the middle of where all the action is.”

In his personal life, Bobby may not be much of a party animal but you wouldn’t know it when he shows his stripes at work.

“Panty hoes are really uncomfortable,” he explains, “and I don’t want to shave my face every day. That’s why I limit things like female impersonation to benefits and fundraisers.” He pauses for a moment and then says, “I like being a boy too much to make a job outta that…

But no, I’m good at it - people see me like that sometimes and they’re like ‘Dayaaamn!’”

When the work day is done, Bobby is content. He calms himself with “meditative shopping” (which he tells me is easier when things are on sale). He’s mostly interested in taking it easy these days and finds that Wilton Manors is perfect for that. “People see me flitting around at work, but that’s not me all the time… I’m not always ‘on’.

It’s very exhausting being me, so when I

have a chance to not be… well, that’s what I prefer to do – shopping and video games!”

“Yes, its ok if you want to mention my status,” he tells me, sensing that I was beating around the bush. “I’m very blessed that in today’s society, I don’t have to keep my HIV a secret. I don’t feel ashamed or dirty about it.” This is of course, a facet of Bobby’s personality that gives him an edge in life and gives me an edge in interviewing him – fresh honesty.

“I’ve grown up enough to make certain choices and so I’m grown up enough to deal with the consequences,” he explains… “These are just the consequences of my choices.”

“I’ve been on ADAP for three years,” he says, “I do everything I need to do – every six months - to reserve my place in that program. Now, the people who are

waiting for medication down here, hopefully something will get ironed out for them. HIV can be a very serious thing. I’m fortunate enough to be in good health, but for the people who suffer, I would like to see something get done. It should be made easier for them.”

This kind of open dialogue is what draws people to Bobby like moths to a flame. He can be sassy and fun but in an instant, he turns around and says something thoughtful and contemplative.

“You know, my favorite part of my job is the people, because my favorite part of life is people. We’re all different so getting a chance to relate to others at work and in my personal life is just really where I want to be right now. For instance, when it comes to Facebook addiction - on a scale of 1-10, I’m probably an 11.”

22

January 12, 2011 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

matt’s datebook To list your event in Matt’s Datebook, send all the information to Matt.Clark@SouthFloridaGayNews.com

January 15 – Saturday Free Family Fest Thomas Plaza for the Arts. . . 11:30 AM Knight Concert Hall 2:00 PM Comedy Planet

Whoopi Goldberg

Ziff Ballet Opera House. . . . . . 8:00 PM World Music

Bale Folclórico da Bahia

Knight Concert Hal. . . . . . . . . 8:00 PM

January 16 – Sunday Drumline Live Knight Concert Hall. . . . . . . . . 7:00 PM

January 25 – Tuesday Florida Grand Opera

The Tales of Hoffmann

Ziff Ballet Opera House. . . . . . 8:00 PM

January 28 – Friday Florida Grand Opera

The Tales of Hoffmann

Ziff Ballet Opera House. . . . . . 8:00 PM The Cleveland Orchestra

A Hero’s Life

Franz Welser-Möst, conductor Pierre-Laurent Aimard, pianist Knight Concert Hall. . . . . . . . . 8:00 PM

Dance, Close Up January 17 – Monday John S. and James L. Knight Masterworks Season Signature Pops

Michael Bolton

One World Love Tour Knight Concert Hall. . . . . . . . . 7:30 PM

Rosie Herrera Dance Company Various Stages of Drowning: A Cabaret and Pity Party Carnival Studio Theater (Ziff Ballet Opera House) . . . . 7:30 PM

January 29 – Saturday The Cleveland Orchestra

January 18 – Tuesday John S and James L. Knight Masterworks Season

Sanford and Dolores Ziff Classical Music

Joshua Bell

Knight Concert Hall. . . . . . . . . 8:00 PM

January 21 – Friday Jazz Roots

Keith Jarrett, Gary Peacock, Jack Dejohnette

Knight Concert Hall. . . . . . . . . 8:00 PM

January 22 – Saturday Florida Grand Opera

The Tales of Hoffmann

Ziff Ballet Opera House. . . . . . 7:00 PM

January 23 – Sunday The Miami Symphony Orchestra

An Evening in Vienna

Eduardo Marturet, conductor Knight Concert Hall. . . . . . . . . 8:00 PM

A Hero’s Life

Franz Welser-Möst, conductor Pierre-Laurent Aimard, pianist Knight Concert Hall. . . . . . . . . 8:00 PM Dance, Up Close

Rosie Herrera Dance Company

Various Stages of Drowning: A Cabaret and Pity Party Carnival Studio Theater (Ziff Ballet Opera House) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2:00 PM & 7:30 PM

January 30 – Sunday Florida Grand Opera

The Tales of Hoffmann

Ziff Ballet Opera House. . . . . . 2:00 PM Dance, Up Close

Rosie Herrera Dance Company

Various Stages of Drowning A Cabaret and Pity Party Carnival Studio Theater (Ziff Ballet Opera House) . . . . 5:00 PM

23

January 12, 2011 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

VIEWS OF THE NEWS On January 5 the Stonewall Library and Archives launched their latest exhibit, ‘The Other Gay 90’s’ which examines the opening up of gay life right before the Millennium.”

PHOTOS BY Jarrett Terrill

24

January 12, 2011 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

Pompano Bill’s Wild Ride!

ness in his life as gay man.

It was here that Bill met what would become the true love of his life while sunbathing on Chicago’s Oak Street Beach.

Peter became Bill’s partner for four years and the two were inseparable when Peter moved to during World War II. As he sat down and Los Angeles in 1957. Bill ordered a drink, his eyes slowly met with applied for a similar job the surrounding atmosphere of the estabtransfer to allow him to lishment. After coming to the not uncombe with Peter but was fortable realization that he was, indeed, in instead transferred to gay hustler bar, his eyes soon transfixed on IBM’s New York City another young man at the end of the bar. headquarters.

This handsome stranger’s name was Bud Pompano Bill turns 85 today, January 12.

Bill was ready to quit Porrman and it wasn’t long before he sidled In celebration of his birthday, the eternal photogdown the bar to join the officer for a drink. rapher’s profile from November 19, 2001 is lifted IBM at that point to move to California so The couple then went to the nearby Saint from the old Express Gay News.

Francis Hotel for drinks and a sumptuous The only thing different about Pompano Bill today he could be with Peter, dinner in the Fairmont Hotel. from ten years ago is he has taken more pictures. but Peter convinced him to stick with his chosen Both men were 21-years-old and solidicareer path. Though eventually they sepaMichigan in 1926. After graduating from fied their immediate connection with one rated romantically after Peter found a new high school in 1944, he entered the Navy another by making love after dinner in Porlover in 1961, the two have remained best where he was assigned as a radio operarman’s apartment. After one more date the friends ever since and have spent vacations tor on the U.S.S. Fentress bound for the following night – a romantic excursion to and holidays together every year. see the scintillating Rita Hayworth in Gilda – Phillipines.Young Bill, who so far had been a Moving to New York City’s bustling West self-proclaimed womanizer and had several the handsome officer returned to his home Village in 1958 opened up a new life for Bill. flings with women, eventually returned to state of Michigan to begin a new life.

Michigan after the War and enrolled at Farris The openness of downtown’s gay subculture Bud continued to write and pleaded with and such hotspots as Aldo’s, Mary’s and the State University in Big Rapids.

Calcaterra to return to San Francisco so that Bird Circuit brought Bill a series of lovers and While working for a degree in business they could begin a life together.The officer, still administration that he later received in 1951, a time that he now refers to as his ‘glory days.’ confused about the brief lifestyle he had enTwo years later, he moved to suburban tered, decided to remain in his home state and Bill drove into Detroit on weekends to White Plains, New York where he remained recapture some of the experience that he attend college. His darling Bud remained his with IBM until 1983. It was there that he first true gay love experience only in his mind had had in San Francisco. The 10/11 Bar on Farmer Street became a favorite hangout and began a torrid 19-year affair with a married and he never saw nor heard from him again. man who also had children.

Fifty-five years later, John William Calcaterra, Bill eventually moved down the street from The then 34-year-old Bill met 19-year-old known within the South Florida community as the bar upon graduation after accepting an construction worker Donald while leaving a Pompano Bill, still thinks about Bud from time administration job in IBM’s Detroit office. downtown bank. The two continued to see He worked in the same capacity for the to time with a tear in his eye.The experience each other once-a-week for evening sexual company until his retirement in 1987. His he had in 1946 started a life knowing love for various roles brought him to work for IBM in encounters. the local photographer and beloved commucities across the nation. nity figure. He boldly emanates warmth and This is only half of his story.

In 1953, Bill was promoted to work in openness to everyone who crosses his path.

For the complete article, go to: Chicago where he discovered a new openPompano Bill was born in Norway, sfgn.com/pompanobill

By Ian Drew

I

t was a quiet evening in June of 1946 when a striking young naval officer sauntered into the Old Crow Bar on a winding street in San Francisco. Officer Calcaterra was ready to relax after receiving an honorary discharge from the army upon his return from serving in the Phillipine Islands

michael murphy

The Lives and Loves of a Living Legend

25

January 12, 2011 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

THANK YOU BECAUSE OF YOUR SUPPORT, WE SAW UNPRECEDENTED PROGRESS FOR THE NATION’S LGBT COMMUNITY IN 2010.

www.hrc.org

PRESIDENT OBAMA SIGNED LEGISLATION THAT WILL REPEAL “DON’T ASK, DON’T TELL.” FROM LAUNCHING A NATIONAL VETERANS TOUR TO GENERATING MORE THAN 19 MILLION COMMUNICATIONS ABOUT REPEAL, HRC WORKED TO ENSURE THAT THIS UNJUST LAW WILL SOON BE PART OF THE DUSTBIN OF HISTORY. DADT REPEAL JOINS HATE CRIMES PROTECTIONS AS THE SECOND PIECE OF LANDMARK LEGISLATION FOR THE LGBT COMMUNITY PASSED IN THE LAST TWO YEARS.

SOME OTHER VICTORIES INCLUDE:  Worked closely with the Obama administration to extend hospital visitation rights for LGBT couples.

 Led the campaign to oust bigoted Arkansas school board member Clint McCance.

 Fought to bring marriage equality across the country. Led the effort to enact marriage equality in Washington, D.C., and organized the key religious voices in support of marriage.

 Launched an innovative program to empower transgender job seekers who are unemployed or underemployed by providing essential skills training to make the most of the job market.

 Launched a campaign to work to pass marriage equality legislation in New York and helped elect three new voices for marriage in the state Senate.  Launched NOMExposed.org to hold the National Organization for Marriage accountable for the misinformation and hate spread in its effort to thwart equality.  Developed the Countdown 2010 Grassroots Campaign calling for a fair and inclusive ENDA.

NONE OF THIS WOULD HAVE BEEN POSSIBLE WITHOUT YOUR SUPPORT AND LEADERSHIP.

 Deployed 39 staff to 17 states to work for pro-equality candidates and recruited more than 4,500 volunteers to support these candidates.  HRC’s Corporate Equality Index expanded with 337 employers reaching 100 percent scores, the most ever.  Signed 50 adoption agencies across the country to implement LGBT-inclusive policies and practices.  HRC is only LGBT national partner organization to join the national non-partisan citizenship and voter registration program Ya Es Hora. HRC mobilized more than 500 volunteers for 40 citizenship workshops in 20 communities.

 Led the call for Mormon leader Boyd Packer to renounce his discriminatory, homophobic remarks. Worked with the Joint Commission, which accredits most hospitals, to establish LGBT-specific accreditation standards to eliminate discriminatory policies in healthcare facilities.  In response to high profile anti-LGBT bullying and youth suicides, launched a new website to help address bullying in elementary schools.

 Formalized a partnership with National Education Association (NEA) to extend the reach of HRC’s Welcoming Schools program.  Successfully lobbied the Obama administration to issue guidance permitting employees to take federal family and medical leave to care for a same-sex partner’s child and extending federal domestic violence protections to include victims in same-sex relationships.

www.hrc.org/thanks

26

January 12, 2011 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

SFGN Profile

Kyle Poffenbarger Behind the Lens & Behind the Music

By Joey Amato

I

f anyone in South Florida was trying to describe someone who is young, hot and fabulous, Kyle Poffenbarger, a.k.a. K-Poff, is most likely the first person to come to mind. At 23 years old, Kyle has a lot going for him, especially since launching his photography studio and releasing his first single last year.

Born and raised in Broward County to a Jewish and German family, Kyle holds an Associate of Science degree in Film & Video Production from Full Sail University in Orlando, which he obtained at just 18 years of age.

“Ever since I was a little kid I’ve always had my eyes behind the lens,” Kyle tells SFGN. “Whether it was the family VHS camera, or an old Polaroid, I just had to shoot something that sparked my interest.”

To fulfill his love for the art, Kyle began taking TV Production and Photography classes at Cypress Bay High School in Weston.

“At that moment, I knew what I was going to be doing for the rest of my life.”

Kyle’s work is definitely not photography in its traditional form. In fact, he blends an element of digital design to his art to create a product which is truly unique. “This helps bring the images to life,” states Kyle. “I spend a lot of time thinking about the shot before I actually take the photos, to make sure I am getting the best photograph.” He describes his work as a mix between glamour, beauty, & abstract digital art.

In a short period of time, Kyle has accumulated an impressive client list which includes many respected corporations and publications. “I have done work for MTV Networks, MODE Lifestyle Magazine, Miami City Ballet, KENT Security, What’s Happening Magazine, & Revolution Nightclub. The rest of my work has all been for my own personal amusement.”

The transformation from a standard photograph into a K-Poff masterpiece is a multi-faceted process. “Before I even take

the photo, I always try to picture what I am seeing through the lens as my final product; pretending I could not edit it at all. That way, once I take the photo, it doesn’t need to be cropped or edited as much.”

After the photo is taken, Kyle begins post production. “I usually bring the photos into Aperture and begin with smoothing and retouching the model’s skin.” He then adjusts

Some of Kyle’s work

the lighting effects and settings, adding saturation, contrast, exposure and vignettes. “If I want to get a little fancy, I sometimes take the edited piece into Photoshop and add some digital effects to it.” One photograph

may take Kyle anywhere from 20 minutes to five hours to complete.

Aside from photography, Kyle is also pursuing his greatest passion, music. “I enjoy singing, writing songs, and I have even DJed a number of parties & weddings in the past.

I pretty much enjoy all aspects of media & technology. I’m a tech geek.”

Inspired by various electronic and dance artists, Kyle recently recorded his first single “Turn Me On” with songwriter/ producer Matthew Kurz. “Soon after the completion of the track, the owners of Living Room Nightclub heard it through the grapevine, and contacted me about performing live at their venue,” Kyle tells us. “Having never performed live, I was pretty nervous, but excited about the whole idea.” The show turned out to be a huge success, drawing over 500 people to the venue.

Kyle has since collaborated with Matthew on a few other tracks including the ex-

tremely catchy, “High-Tech,” Kyle’s first foray into songwriting. “We sat down and I told him basically what I wanted and it turned out to be even better than “Turn Me On”, in my opinion.” Another song, “Tonight” surfaced soon after. Kyle is in the process of talking with a record label for production and distribution but nothing has been made official yet If there was one person who Kyle would love to collaborate with in the future, it would be BT. “He is one of my all time favorite artists and biggest influence,” Kyle states. “BT is a technologist who sings, composes music, DJs, does graphic design and creates videos. He makes some of the most enchanting and touching music I’ve ever heard, and some of the most incredibly moving imagery to go along with it. He’s just an all around genius.”

So whether it’s professionally or for his own ‘personal amusement’, Kyle is surely on his way to becoming one of the most recognizable young individuals in the South Florida arts scene.

If you would like to hire Kyle for any work, please contact him via email at kpoffvids@ gmail.com or at 954-591-4089. To view his portfolio of work, please visit KPoff.com.

27

January 12, 2011 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

THE NEW 25TH ANNIVERSARY PRODUCTION

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28

January 12, 2011 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

Heard it on...

myself from the pack a She urged him to come little bit.” out publicly before she Griffin isn’t leaving died seven years ago, alBravo, however. The netthough she initially wanted work has contracted her him to keep the informafor four comedy specials tion to himself. to air quarterly in 2011.

“My mother and I had Over her six seaalready had the gay talk, sons on the air, Griffin during which she had Kathy Griffin Moves frequently used My Life told me that nothing had Off the “D-List” on the D-List to shine a changed, that she loved Kathy Griffin is no longer on the light on inequalities facing me, asked if I was seeing “D-List.” After six seasons, the comedian Elton Is Biological gay people, including an anybody, and so on,” writes announced she is ending her Bravo reality Father Steve Buckley episode which showed Buckley. “What she didn’t show so she can spread her wings Elton John is identified as her pounding the pavement and going door like was the idea of me coming out publicly; and show she’s “a little different the biological father on the to door campaigning for gay rights. she was of the opinion that it was really than Kate Gosselin.” birth certificate of his newGriffin also spoke often on the show in nobody’s business, and she worried that “It was a really tough decision born son, Zachary, reports support of repealing “don’t ask, don’t tell.” prejudice might disrupt my career. because I think of the D-List as website Pop Eater.

“But like an NFL referee, she had overpretty much my baby for the last “Elton really wanted the turned the original call. ‘Do it,’ she said. I six seasons and I also think it was child to have his genes,” a Sports Columnist really time to stop doing it,” Griffin Steve Buckley: I Am Gay thanked her. She smiled. And then I made friend of John and partner the biggest mistake of my life: With a vacatold People magazine. “Reality is David Furnish reveals to

By Advocate.com Editors tion lined up for the first week of Decemgreat, but I really didn’t set out to the website. “He has a Godnot Steve Buckley, the sports columnist ber, I told her I’d get to it when I returned be a reality star. So now it’s time to for the Boston Herald, announced in a given talent and wanted to Kate Gosselin to Boston – just before Christmas.” spread my wings and show that I’m column on Thursday that he is gay. pass that on to a child. And Buckley’s mother died shortly after he after years of discussion and thought, Elton a little different than Kate Gosselin.

Buckley said he wished he had written “I’m not saying better, but maybe separate the column while his mother was still alive. returned from vacation. and David decided together that Elton’s sperm would be used.”

The source also reveals that “Elton has already purchased a $2 million adjoining apartment in Los Angeles to turn into the perfect nursery. Elton’s son already has four round-the-clock nannies and his own chef.”

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29

January 12, 2011 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

SFGN Profile

David Korkoian “Change the way you look at things, and the things you look at change!”

By Richard Gary

D

avid Korkoian or ‘David K’ as he’s known at Keller Williams Realty Professionals has been selling real estate in South Florida since 2002.

When the market shifted in 2007, David dove head first into short sales and was one of the first South Florida Realtors to embrace this challenging aspect of real estate.

Having successfully closed currently over 60 short sales, his business model continues to grow and a large part of his business plan has always focused on helping homeowners that have been unsuccessful in the past.

“There are many homes that were listed for sale and failed to sell. Traditional approaches to selling real estate do not work in this market. That is why I designed an 89 point marketing plan which was created for these

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property’s,” Korkoian states. “This plan helps sell properties in the shortest amount of time, for the most amount of money.”

The marketing plan allows Korkoian to offer his clients an “easy exit” listing agreement. “If they aren’t happy with me or my team, they can fire us at anytime. We also have a 59 day guarantee that consists of selling your property in 59 Days, or we pay your mortgage until it sells.”

“My job is to market and sell properties. This is a tough environment and there are agents leaving the industry every day. It is my ‘out of box approach’ which has my business thriving.”

On a personal note, David and his life partner of 9 years, Juan Morales, will celebrate their one-year wedding anniversary January 16. Their son Dean is a sophomore at Broward College, recently earned his real estate license and is becoming a valuable member of The Korkoian Group. The three of them and as well as their dogs Buster and Boo Boo make up an incredibly happy 21st century family.

30

January 12, 2011 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

31

January 12, 2011 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

McNaught: If We Smell Gas wondering why no one complained. continued from page 14 Someone should have said that Jared Lee tration about the bizarre behavior of the Arizona gunman, Jared Lee Loughner. Why Loughner was a threat. Someone with a voice didn’t the administration contact his parents should have publicly condemned Sarah Paland the police? And if they did, why didn’t in’s rhetoric. “Have you no shame?” Some juthe police contact the FBI and Homeland Se- nior naval officer should have reported Capcurity? And if they did, why wasn’t Jared Lee tain Honors the first time a derogatory video of his aired throughout the ship. Someone Loughner hospitalized? “I smell gasoline.” should speak up about the anThe smell of gasoline perti-gay language of the guys on meates our society. Gay, lesbiWe all have the the trading floor in New York, an, bisexual, and transgender responsibility to or the plant manager in Mopeople work in hostile envispeak up. bile, or the Human Resources ronments, even when their manager in Dallas. corporation has a perfect score We all have the responsibility to speak up from the Human Rights Campaign. Middle managers defy corporate policy because and say, “I smell gasoline,” and “That’s unthey reason, as Captain Honors must have, acceptable behavior.”

What happened in the Arizona mall parkthat “no one is being hurt by these harmless comments.” Sometimes the managers ignore ing lot is a horrible tragedy, but it is not surthe anti-gay comments of their big produc- prising. Nor is it surprising that Captain Honers because they don’t want to upset them, ors felt comfortable broadcasting his bias, or and have them go work in another firm, or that my banking friend’s colleagues thought because they assume there are no gay people it was funny to call him “Rainbow Man.” present. So, gasoline is poured around the of- They’re all related. They’re all examples of fice either by the persons in charge, or with some people pouring gasoline, and of other their approval, and Human Resources keeps people acting as if they don’t smell it.

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January 12, 2011 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

Wayne Besen: Bombast continued from page 17

their rhetoric led to the Arizona massacre, blogger Jim Burroway provided a photograph of a Limbaugh promotional billboard in Tucson painted with bullet holes and the headline, “Straight Shooter”.

Such violent imagery was in line with Sarah Palin’s infamous graphic targeting vulnerable Democratic legislative districts with crosshairs. As we now know, critically wounded Rep. Gabrielle Giffords (D-AZ) was one of the legislators in Palin’s gun sights.

Unfortunately, the media tries to draw a moral equivalence between the rhetoric of the left and right, which is inaccurate and unhelpful. This bogus media attempt at “balance” obfuscates the reality that the vast majority of alarming rhetoric comes from Republicans and Tea Party adherents.

The root of the problem is people like Sarah Palin who say, “Don’t retreat – instead reload.” It is people like Gov. Rick Perry (RTX) that inflame old passions by hinting at secession. It is the Republican Party that wins power by attacking immigrants, bashing Muslims, and using anti-gay marriage

amendments to drive voters to the polls.

It is House Speaker John Boehner and Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell who allowed the healthcare bill to be portrayed as a step toward communism. It is former House Majority Leader Dick Armey who helped organize the bitter Town Hall healthcare meetings designed to intimidate legislators. It is the GOP that disrespects the office of the President by acting as though Bill Clinton and Barack Obama lack legitimacy.

My intent is not to say that most Republicans are bigots, nor are I implying that the names I’ve mentioned are directly responsible for causing deaths. However, they have soured the political climate in America by consistently catering to bigots, pandering to religious extremists, serving as apologists for militia kooks, and entertaining the wild fantasies of sick conspiracy theorists.

Instead of restoring sanity, they have treated these crackpots as if they were legitimate, even respected, constituencies.

It is time America stops living in denial and considers the possibility that over-thetop bombast may lead to a body count.

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January 12, 2011 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

A Royal Rental… in Philadelphia?

By A. Sebastian Fortino

M

ost of the time in Philadelphia plaques bear the fabled quote, “George Washington Slept Here.”

However, in one verdant, well-to-do section of Philadelphia there is a house that could rightly boast, “Princess Grace of Monaco Slept Here.”

High in the hills above the city, in the East Falls section stands the childhood home of Philadelphia’s Princess (not, as has been suggested my boyhood home in the same city, ahem) and a room in the early-twentieth Colonial Revival house is on the market for rent

for an astonishingly low $900! If you’re a Grace Kelly fan and are contemplating a long weekend in the City of Brotherly Love this might be a great hotel alternative.

The owners include all amenities – gas, electric, parking, water – and even comes furnished.

While a room rental is rather Spartan, the listing also includes two bathrooms!

What queen – or princess – wouldn’t want that amenity?

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January 12, 2011 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

Crossword Puzzle

Down 1 Heads up Across 2 Pentium producer 1 Judy’s daughter 3 Movie of 11-Down 5 Screen siren Garbo 4 Gave a heads-up to 10 In need of some South Beach rays 5 Club head?

14 Carbon compound 6 Where a sailor may hit bottom 15 Looks at a hottie in a bar 7 Suffix with musket 16 Jannings of old films 8 Like a muscle Mary’s waist 17 Where to look, in “Misty” 9 Cruising 18 Haunting 10 Goobers 19 Aid’s partner 11 Recently out actress 20 Take off your shorts?

12 Try to deceive 22 McKellen’s X-Men role 13 John of Aida fame 24 Narrow cuts 21 Muslim faith 25 One of the Great Lakes 23 Indian mountain passes 26 Catcher of phallic fish 27 Actor McCormack 29 Path through leaves of grass 28 Fix a sneaker, maybe 31 Richard Chamberlain’s Dr. role 29 “Zip it!”

33 Sexy buns?

30 Trials and tribulations 36 Doc’s org.

31 Bucks 37 Results of screwing up 32 Top’s betting phrase?

39 Taxing mo.

34 Acted like 40 Omar in The Mod Squad 35 Carhop’s carrier 42 Crotchety sorts 38 Leonardo’s thing 43 De Matteo of Desperate Housewives 41 R.E.M. neck attachment 44 Stop with 43 Cost of belonging 46 Tigers of the NCAA 45 Where they sing “Hello Dalai”?

47 One to hang with 47 Ho-hum 48 With 59-Across, movie of 11-Down 49 Put the kibosh on 51 Derek of Breaking the Code 50 Joe who played gay in JFK 54 Stands next to O’Keeffe 51 Cabaret actor Grey 58 “Put ___ Happy Face” 52 A girl named Frank 59 See 48-Across 53 La ___ aux Folles 63 Brewing tank 55 Green beginner?

64 Wilde’s tongue, for short 56 Placid, for example 65 Stamp of Priscilla 57 From A to B, to Debussy 66 Just make, with “out” 60 Aetna rival, for short 67 Jason of Chasing Amy 61 Gone With the Wind extra 68 Persian Gulf port 62 Bambi character that wasn’t horny?

69 Log Cabin member, for short Recently Out

See solution on page 35

35

January 12, 2011 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

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Solution to Crossword Puzzle on page 34

36

January 12, 2011 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

T R A V E L

Local Adventurer Makes Plans to Trek Through Gobi Desert

By A. Sebastian Fortino

M

ike Prehis is a retired airline pilot who makes his home in Wilton Manors, however he does not take his retirement lightly. His vacations do not involve midnight buffets and planned excursions, often times they seek to give back to the international community. In fact his entire vacations seem to be…excursions.

In May, Prehis will leave the comforts of home to join 12 other thrill seekers as they trek 1,000 miles across the Gobi Desert in Mongolia. They will also have an eight camel caravan to carry their gear.

The trek, in addition to offering “really bad dust and sandstorms, heat stroke, extreme temperature fluctuations, blizzards, equipment failure and injury” will benefit schools in Mongolia. Schools around the world are also invited to interact with Gobi2011.com so students can experience what life in an indigenous Mongolian village. Through the website, trekkers will blog about their once-

in a life time experience.

“We are raising funds with a charity called EduRelief.org to benefit school children in Mongolia,” said Prehis.“You can send a kid to school in Mongolia for as little as $20 per month.”

Trekkers must afford their own way, although through donations and the patronage of a Danish noble – The Countess Alexandra Christina of Frederiksborg – costs keep coming down for the team.

This is not the first time he has trekked for charity. In 2007 Prehis climbed Mt. Everest to raise money for orphans in Nepal.

Prehis has also climbed Mt. Kilimanjaro to raise money for children in Uganda.

“There were 12 of us who did that, it’s one of the schools that will be linked to the expedition,” said Prehis, who added that despite the anti-gay climate in Uganda he felt comfortable working in the country, which recently tried to ratify the death penalty for homosexuality. “I’m out, everybody knows, but in Uganda it never came into play. The people

we were with were fairly open-minded.”

If Prehis seems like a living gay Indiana Jones it will further interest you to know that he recently flew a single engine plane from Egypt back to the United States. He took a Northern Atlantic route, making stops in a wide arc every 1,000 miles or so.

Oh, this was after he lived in Egypt for a year launching a start-up airline.

“It was a sort of on demand airline, a taxi sort of. Clients would call asking to be picked up in Cairo, then flown out to see sites like Luxor,” said Prehis who has also been a yacht captain in the Mediterranean and in Fort Lauderdale as well.“But now I just enjoy being retired.”

The Gobi 2011 trek, which consists of an international group of adventure seekers, including a young woman who co-led an all-woman team up Mt. Everest, known British Desert Explorer Ripley Davenport, and French filmmaker Emmanuel Berthier who will document the trek, the interaction with local peoples as a means to educate

the modern world about groups “who have proudly continued their way of life regardless of climate change and globalization.”

Prehis does not seem deterred by all of the difficulties he and his team will encounter during their trek. The traditional home of nomads on the Gobi desert is the yurt, or ger in Mongolian. These are known to be primitive, yet comfortable, portable dwellings made of wood and lattice, and covered in layers of fabric, often boasting sumptuous carpets inside.

Perhaps the only aspect of the trek he seemed to lament is the cuisine.

“We will also be eating the local food,” said Prehis. “Mongolian food is known to have little vegetables, and a lot of people consider it to be really awful. When you meet locals, of course you have to accept their hospitality.

One of their specialties is fermented horse milk and well, we’re their guests.”

For more information on Prehis and his adventure, please visit Gobi2011.com