09/26/12 V3I39 by South Florida Gay News

Singer Brandon Hilton Brings ‘Frozen Heart Tour’ to Drive Health Expo for Women of Color at Pride Center PAGE 5

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September 26, 2012 • Volume 3 • Issue 39

PINK PANIC! Miami Beach Says ‘No Pinks Allowed‘

AHF President Michael Weinstein

PAGE 14

Broward county school district first in nation to recognize LGBT History month PAGE 17 INSIDE THIS ISSUE

page

Activism at FAU

page

CFA Still AntiGay?

page

A Month in Wilton Manors

page

LGBT Film Fest

stonewall censorship debate continues w/national group PAGE 24

WEBbites

By Sergio Candido, sergio.candido@sfgn.com September 26, 2012 • Volume 3 • Issue 39

The Most Talked About Stories on SFGN.com

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

Norm Kent Publisher norm.kent@sfgn.com Pier Angelo Guidugli

Chief Executive Officer Editorial Editor in Chief. . . . . . . . . . . Jason Parsley jason.parsley@sfgn.com Managing Editor . . . . . . . . . Gideon Grudo gideon.grudo@sfgn.com Online Website Director . . . Dennis Jozefowicz Graphic Designer. . . . . . . . . Mark Pauciullo Online News Director . . . . . Sergio N. Candido sergio.candido@sfgn.com Arts/Entertainment Editor . . JW Arnold jw@prdconline.com International Travel Editor. . Joey Amato Business Editor . . . . . . . . . . Richard Gary Rapper Lil Wayne

Frank Ocean

Rapper Lil Wayne Slams Gay Frank Ocean

he gay rapper wars are on. The latest artillery comes from Lil Wayne, who’s dropping his poetry bombs on recently out R&B singer Frank Ocean. Wayne raps over a remixed version of Future’s new single “Turn On The Lights:” “Tell her I skate/ I ain’t got no worries/ No Frank Ocean, I’m straight.” The lyrics are a clear reference to Ocean, who broke rap stereotypes earlier this year when he publicly came out saying his first love had been a man.According to the Gay Star News, Lil Wayne also used anti-gay slurs in his song Georgia Bush, where he says: “Got money out the ass/no homo but I’m rich.” Some in the industry like hip hop demigods Russell Simmons and J-Zay have supported Ocean’s coming out. But the sentiment is still mostly negative among other black artists. Chris Brown declined to comment on Ocean’s sexuality, allegedly saying: “Man, no homo!” the Gay Star News reported. Stevie Wonder had also come out earlier this month commenting that Ocean was “confused” about his sexuality. Wonder later apologized about his words. “No one has been a greater advocate for the power of love in this word than I; both in my life and in my music. Clearly, love is love,” he told MTV.

Asexual Who Cooked, Served Own Genitals Could be Jailed

n asexual Tokyo artist who earlier this year cooked and served his own genitals could now face up to two years in prison and a $32,000 fine, the Japan Daily Press reports. Mao Sugiyama, 23, has been charged with indecent exposure more than two months after preparing the cannibalistic meal, which a group of people paid $250 each to consume, according to News On Japan. Huffington Post describes how Sugiyama prepared the meal: “Before turning 22, Sugiyama underwent elective genital-removal surgery.The severed penis, testicles, and scrotal skin were divided up and garnished with button mushrooms and Italian parsley. The dinner was designed to raise awareness about “sexual minorities, x-gender, asexual people,” Sugiyama said. There are no laws in Japan banning cannibalism. However, indecent exposure is a punishable crime. Indecent exposure in Japan is described as displaying any obscene objects, according to the Japan Daily Press.

Senior Features Correspondents . . . . . . . . . . T ony Adams Jesse Monteagudo

Paris HIlton

Paris Hilton Apologizes for Saying Most Gay Men ‘Probably Have AIDS’

Coming Out F Hong Kong elects first openly gay legislator F Report: Latino and African-American Media are Pro-Gay

Contributing Columnists. . . Wayne Besen

Brian McNaught

Victoria Michaels aris Hilton has made a career out of Dana Rudolph being a dumb blonde, but her recent David Webb comments regarding gay men might have just Health Columnist. . . . . . . . . Peter Jackson crossed the line. Radar Online reports that a Finance Columnist. . . . . . . . Ric Reily Trans News Editor. . . . . . . . Victoria Michaels taxi driver recorded the 31-year-old socialite during a taxi drive in New York City. During the recorded conversation, the hotel heiress Calendar Editor. . . . . . . . . . Brian Swinford talks to a friend about Grindr, the popular Editorial Cartoonists. . . . . . . Karl Hampe Darryl Smith hook up app for gay men, and that’s when she says, “Gay guys are the horniest people Staff Photographer. . . . . . . . Dani Justice in the world...they’re disgusting. Dude, most Sales of them probably have AIDS.” And she went Marketing Director. . . . . . . . John Fugate on: “I would be so scared if I was a gay guy... Sales Manager. . . . . . . . . . . . Mike Trottier Sales Associates . . . . . . . . . . . Edwin Neimann you’ll, like, die of AIDS,” Hilton said.A publicist Justin Wyse Ryan Dixon for the reality TV star came out later that day saying the conversation had been taken National Sales Representative . . . . . . . Rivendell Media out of context. Now Hilton has released todd@rivendellmedia.com her official apology through Gay and Lesbian Distribution Manager. . . . . . .JR Davis Alliance Against Defamation and Twitter. “I South Florida Gay News.com is published weekly on Wednesdays. Our paper is a member of the Associated Press. want to say how sorry I am. I can’t fit the The views and opinions expressed within this publication, in whole apology about the cab recording here, bylined columns, stories, and letters to the editor are those of the writers expressing them. They do not represent the opinions of so please read it at @glaad,” she tweeted. South Florida Gay News.com, Inc., or the Publisher. They are

Don’t be left out of the conversation next time. Read our daily stories at SFGN.com You can also find us on Facebook: SouthFloridaGayNews.com Twitter: @soflagaynews.

Other Headlines at SFGN.com F Chicago Gay Bar Fire Investigation Continues Amid Rumors F Gyms Disassociate from Gold’s Brand Due to Anti-Gay Donations F Two New Campaigns to Prevent Gay Teen Suicide F Gay German Soccer Player talks About the Pressures of

Correspondents. . . . . . . . . . D onald Cavanaugh Andrea Dulanto Dylan Bouscher

COLUMNS: F Taxes Are Spending – and Gays Often Pay More F Philadelphia LGBT Community Mourns, Investigation Continues in Transgender Murder Case F Gay Marine Answers Questions on Reddit for DADT Repeal Anniversary F Gay Teen Helps Lead Phoenix’s Anti-Bullying Initiative

included to promote free speech and diversity of thought. You should not presume the sexual orientation of individuals based on their names or pictorial representations in SFGN, and it would be careless to do so. For the sake of readable newswriting, the word “gay” in SFGN should, when relevant, be interpreted to be inclusive of the entire gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgendered community. All of the material that appears in SFGN, both online at www. southfloridagaynews.com, and in our print edition, including articles used in conjunction with our contract with the Associated Press and our columnists, is protected under federal copyright and intellectual property laws, and is jealously guarded by the newspaper. Thus, nothing published may be reprinted in whole or part without getting written consent from the Publisher of SFGN,Norm Kent, at his law office, Kent & Cormican, P.A., 12 SE 7th St., Suite 709, Fort Lauderdale, Fl 33301 SFGN, as a private corporation, reserves the right to enforce its own standards regarding the suitability of advertising copy, illustrations and photographs. Copyright©2012 South Florida Gay News.com, Inc.

Associated Press Florida Press Association National Gay and Lesbian Journalists Association

September 26, 2012 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

BREAKING NEWS

Supreme Court Ignores Prop 8... For Now By Sergio N. Candido

hatever happens next week in the U.S. Supreme Court could have a huge impact on the lives of gay couples in California. For now, the U.S. Supreme Court has not listed the case challenging California’s Proposition 8 for its Fall session, The Advocatereports. The justices are set to release the list of cases that they won’t be hearing next week, on Monday Oct. 1. If the Supreme Court decides not to hear Perry v. Brown, Proposition 8, which bans

gay marriages in California, will be upheld. If that were to happen, Adam Umhoefer, executive director of Americans for Equal Rights, said the attorneys working for the LGBT rights group will still fight to try to get gay Californians equal rights. “Some have speculated that the Supreme Court may wait to consider our case until later this fall when the Justices will decide whether to grant review in several cases challenging the so-called Defense of Marriage Act,” Umhoefer said in message on AFER’s website. File Photo

MORE WEBites New Hate Crime at McDonald’s

he list of anti-gay attacks at McDonald’s restaurants keeps growing. The latest incident involves a 350-pound man who berated a 22-year-old using gay slurs and then pulled out a razor, cutting the victims face, neck, back and elbow. On Sept. 19, a large 5 foot-10-inch tall black man made fun of the victim and then attacked him inside a McDonald’s in Greenwich Village, the New York Daily News reports. Police are still searching for the suspect. The victim was treated at Bellevue Hospital. Last year, Damian Furtch was dining with a friend at that same McDonald’s in Greenwich Village when two Hispanic men approached him in regard to his pink shoelaces.The two men called Furtch anti-gay slurs and started punching him in the face several times. He had to be taken to a local hospital, according to WPIX Channel 11. Furtch posted photos of his face after the attack on Facebook, which showed two very swollen black eyes and a cut in his nose.

Gay Parties Bad for Feng Shui?

now-closed West Village restaurant in New York is being sued because the owner allegedly canceled a gay wedding rehearsal dinner on the basis that gay parties are bad for “feng shui,” according to a lawsuit cited by the New York Daily News. According to the lawsuit, the son of the restaurant’s owner pulled the plug on the scheduled dinner when he found out about the couple’s sexual orientation. He also allegedly fired the person who booked the event. Fong Lin, manager at the Amber Village restaurant, told the New York Post that the accusations are “ridiculous,” and added that the reservation was canceled because the restaurant was moving to a new location.The term feng shui refers to a series of elements that have to be position in a

certain manner to create positive energy.

Man Gets 3-Month Jail Sentence for Gay Sex

Nigerian actor was sentenced to three months in jail after pleading guilty to having engaged in “homosexual acts,” the Premium Times reports. Chuckwuemeka, a 28 year-old actor, had originally pleaded not guilty when he was first charged, arguing the gay sex had been a mix up because he was drunk. “‘I came back drunk from the nightclub and thought I was sleeping on the same bed with my girl-friend and I started romancing her,” he said according to Premium Times. He later told the court: “I am guilty of the charge against me. I was under the influence of alcohol and I want the court to temper justice with mercy,” he said. Senior Magistrate Nafisatu Buba, who sentenced the man to imprisonment without an option of fine said “This would serve as warning to other youths who hide under the influence of alcohol to commit crimes.” Section 284 of Nigeria’s Penal Code for its northern states clarifies that “Whoever has carnal intercourse against the order of nature with any man, woman or animal shall be punished with imprisonment for a term which may extend to fourteen years and shall also be liable to fine.”

September 26, 2012 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

Continued on page 34

LOCAL NEWS

How to Join

Three Decades of LGBT Campus Activism

FAU’s chapter of Lambda United welcomes any student to join.

FAU’s Lambda United Trucks On

“If they know about the club, they can come to meetings and we’ll make them join,” said Guevara. “Add us on Facebook, or the collegiate link.”

Photo and Story By Dylan Bouscher

for FAU to add “sexual orientation” and “gender identity” language to the university’s anti-discrimination policy. Changing one university’s policy in those days required approval from the Florida legislature, which was uncooperative at the time, according to FAU’s Lambda website. Lambda’s symbol — the lowercase version of the 11th letter in the Greek alphabet — was originally chosen by the Gay Activists Alliance of New York in 1970. Then in December 1974 the International Gay Rights Congress met in Edinburgh, Scotland and declared the lambda an international symbol for gay and lesbian rights, according to Lambda’s national website. “The people who are against the LGBT community don’t understand why,” said Dani Guevara. “The people who are ignorant on the subject will stay ignorant.” Last November, however, the university’s Board of Trustees voted unanimously to add sexual orientation to the antidiscrimination policy. But the board stopped short of adding gender identity as well. “By not including gender identity we are again specifically keeping a group out that is protected at other universities, including both the flagship schools, UF and FSU,” said Boris Bastidas, FAU alumnus. “We do need that,” said Guevara. “It can’t just be on paper, it has to be in peoples’ minds.” Back in the Lambda United meeting, the group is still choosing what to do with the plain white door for their Coming Out day event. “What are we painting the door color-wise?” Padgett asks. “Rainbow,” Guevara and the rest of Lambda say in unison. “I’ll be the doorman,” Padgett said.

Facebook: http://on.fb.me/SgXCBP Collegiate: http://bit.ly/Sf3bfz “It’s a great way to get active in the community and make a change, a positive change,” said Matthew Vega, a sophomore English major and Lambda’s secretary. You do not need to be a student or affiliated with FAU to be a member of Lambda’s Facebook Group. “If you want to attend one of Lambda’s events, make sure you get yourself invited by an FAU student,” the group warns on its Facebook group page.

Upcoming LGBTQA History Month Events The following events take place on FAU’s Boca Raton campus. 777 Glades Rd. Boca Raton, FL 33431 Oct. 3: LGBTQA History Month Kickoff - When: 11:30 to 1 p.m. - Where: LGBTQA Resource Center

Oct. 11: National Coming Out Day - When: 7 to 9 p.m. - Where: Live Oak Pavilion (behind the Student Union)

Photo By Dylan Bouscher

t’s 6:42 p.m. and Lambda United, Florida Atlantic University’s Gay/Straight Alliance, is debating what color to paint a door laying against a wall in the LGBTQA Resource Center for the upcoming National Coming Out day. They’re also going over events Lambda is hosting next month. “October is going to be the most obnoxious month ever because it’s my birthday,” said Rory Padgett, a senior film major and Lambda’s vice president. Next month is also LGBTQA history month,the national bullying prevention month, and the domestic violence awareness month. “October is going to be packed,” said Emily Calfo,the LGBTQA Resource Center Specialist. The gay rights movement has maintained an active presence at FAU since the 1970s. Back then, the student organization wasn’t called Lambda United, it was called the Gay Academic Union.And even though Lambda just hosted the “2nd annual” drag show on Sept. 14, FAU alumnus Mark Silber said otherwise. “The first Drag Show sponsored by an FAU LGBT group (‘The Gay Academic Union’) was way back in 1975,” Silber wrote on Lambda’s facebook group page. “It was held at the Boca Raton Unitarian/Universalist Church.” Dani Guevara, a junior psychology major and Lambda’s president, wore a fake mustache, over sized white T-shirt and baseball cap to this year’s drag show before stripping down to a corset on the runway. “When we first started out we weren’t on campus, the members had to go to apartments off-campus,” said Padgett. “The school didn’t allow us to meet on campus because it was gays in the 1970s.” Eventually, the Gay Academic Union became known as Lambda United. Then in the 1990s Lambda unsuccessfully lobbied

From left to right: Lambda United Treasurer Alex Joseph, Public Relations Officer Gena Rumble,Vice President Rory Padgett, and President Daniela Guevara.

September 26, 2012 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

P e r s o n a l I n j u ry • f r e e c o n s u ltat I o n

LOCAL NEWS

Expo for LBT Women of Color By Andrea Dulanto “The ambiance of our event adds a very positive energy,” said Van Den Bergh. In terms of health issues, women of color are concerned with insurance. “They are less likely to be able to afford health care insurance,” shared Van Den Bergh. A recent report from the National Women’s Law Center confirms “AfricanAmerican women [make] only 62 cents, and Hispanic women only 54 cents, for every dollar earned by white, non-Hispanic men.” Despite the barriers for LBT women of color, the WOC Health Expo endeavors to not only provide a day focused on health, but to build a lasting bridge that connects communities to the services they need. For example, ARROW provides yearround training for health practitioners as well as programs for LBT women seeking health care. Dr. Greenwood offers a We d n e s d ay e v e n i n g program on women’s h e a l t h . V a n Den Bergh affirmed her hope for the WOC Health Expo: “By hosting a health promotion event that is upbeat, positive and motivating, this will serve as an impetus for LBT women of color to more actively engage in establishing a healthy lifestyle including accessing primary care and health screenings.” File Photo

y womb is not a football for you,” sings Sinead O’Connor in “Red Football” on her 1994 album Universal Mother. It’s a lyric that could apply to the current political climate for women’s health. From access to affordable contraception, laws requiring ultrasounds before abortion, to the irrational concept of “legitimate rape”— women’s health has confronted many obstacles. But when the presidential campaign is over, women will continue to confront the dilemma of health care. Women of color are especially at risk, particularly lesbian, bisexual and transgender women. Heart disease and cancer are issues that disproportionally affect the community. You can take action by attending the Women of Color Health Expo for lesbian, bisexual and transgender women on S a t u r d ay, September 29, 2012 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at The Pride Center in Wilton Manors. The event is open to all women. Presented by ARROW and Rainbow Ladies- Our Space, Inc. and sponsored by Susan G. Komen for the Cure, this is the WOC Health Expo’s second year. In 2011, the WOC Health Expo had a strong start with almost 150 attendees. According to Dr. Nan Van Den Bergh, Ph.D., LCSW and founder of ARROW, last year’s free clinical breast exams detected lumps in two women — one woman was MTF and had not visited a primary health care provider in two decades. She was referred to Care Resource for a mammography, where her transition was also facilitated. Free clinical breast exams will be offered again as well as blood sugar and cholesterol screenings, and HIV tests. Participating organizations include the Broward County Department of Health, Memorial Regional Hospital, and Holy Cross Hospital. Information about breast and other cancers, cardio-vascular disease and diabetes will be available. Specific questions can receive a response duringAsk a Nurse with Dr.Maureen Greenwood, DNP, FNP-C, of Care Resource. Attendees can learn about alternative and complementary medicine, take free Zumba and yoga classes, or enjoy the food truck fare. Entertainment will be provided by emcee Jill Tracey from HOT 105FM, spoken word artists, vocalists, and a DJ. One can even register to vote.

For more information visit www.arrowlbt.org or www.rainbowladiesourspaceinc.org

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September 26, 2012 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

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LOCAL NEWS

SFGN Lawsuit against ‘Rock’ Film Gets Green Light Judge says ‘significant public interests’ are involved By Richard Gary

s the hit Broadway production of Rock of Ages returns to the Miami stage, an entirely unrelated lawsuit by SFGN against the Fort Lauderdale police, alleging their negligence while protecting a Tom Cruise film production of the musical, has been ordered to go forward by a Broward County judge. Last Spring, a civil suit was filed against the city of Fort Lauderdale, alleging the city violated the constitutional rights of the public and members of the press, when it prohibited photography where the movie Rock of Ages was filming. SouthFloridaGayNews.com and the Society of Professional Journalists alleged in Circuit Court that their photographers and reporters were denied access to public venues. The organizations charge that while trying to protect the privacy of actors and secrecy in filming, the police denied reporters’ fundamental first amendment access to city streets, parking lots, and sidewalks.

As part of the movie filming, the city had placed several yellow “no trespassing,” signs about and around the club Revolution Live, on Second Street in downtown Fort Lauderdale. The signs read photography in the area is “strictly prohibited.” The lawsuit, filed by SFGN Publisher Norm Kent, and his law partner, Russell Cormican, also claimed the city unjustly impeded the first amendment rights of the public, interfered with those standing outside the “no trespassing” area, while “illegally and unconstitutionally” stopping people from taking photos of those involved in the filming of the rock-’n’-roll movie. The film, released last fall, starred Tom Cruise, Russell Brand and Catherine Zeta-Jones. It was a box-office bust. The stage musical, on the other hand, has been a continuing success. “Meanwhile,” Cormican stated, “we have been given a judicial green light to go forward with our case against the city of Fort Lauderdale.”

Ordering that the suit may proceed to trial, Judge Michelle Tobin Singer denied the city of Fort Lauderdale’s motion to dismiss, filed by attorney Robert Schwartz. Judge Singer ruled that “First Amendment protections represented a significant public interest which have to be protected, and the claims have a right to be heard.” Applauding the decision, Cormican stated, “the court ruled that the First Amendment rights of journalists must be guarded.” Given twenty days to answer the suit, the city then filed a general denial of all allegations last week. The next stage in the litigation, Cormican noted, will be taking the depositions of officers and policy makers he alleges acted irresponsibly. “We firmly believe that the witnesses on behalf of SFGN and SPJ will demonstratively show beyond a preponderance of the evidence that instead of being guardians of the public interest, the Fort Lauderdale police allowed themselves to become tools of a movie studio.”

Totally unrelated to the lawsuit, the stage production of the Rock of Ages, enormously successful both on Broadway, and its national tours, returns to South Florida on October 9 for a 6-day run at the Adrienne Arscht Center in Miami. Details about the production are available in the SFGN.com arts section.

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By David Breen and Jason Garcia, Orlando Sentinel Editor’s Note: This story is printed with permission. The Miami Herald’s coverage of this event, however, added that “the prostitution ring included prostitutes catering to gay clients.” The Herald’s sources on this are anonymous, but listed as coming from Democratic and Republican offices.

tate Rep. Mike Horner of Kissimmee, in the case came as a shock in Osceola a leading Osceola County Republican County, where he has received numerous and a rising star in state GOP circles, awards for community involvement. abruptly ended his re-election “I’m stunned,” said Jim Cook, a member campaign Monday after he was named as a of the Osceola County Republican client in a prostitution and racketeering case. Executive Committee. “I know Mike Horner, a two-term member of the state Horner really well. He’s a nice guy.” House, has not been charged or arrested in There was no immediate word about the the case. Nor is he a target of the investigation, status of Horner’s job with the chamber. Calls according to a law-enforcement source to the organization were unanswered Monday. who is knowledgeable about the case. Horner’s exit from the House campaign The source said he was named on a client has transformed what had been a safe GOP list in a case brought by the Orange- seat into a potentially wide-open race. Osceola State Attorney’s Office against “Obviously, the dynamics have changed,” Mark Risner, who is accused of running a said Christian Ulvert, a political consultant brothel out of an east Orange County home. helping to direct House campaigns for Horner, 44, released a statement the Florida Democratic Party. “We’re Monday saying he was looking at it very closely.” ending his re-election bid. The Democratic nominee “I deeply regret decisions in the district is the littleI made that are causing my known Game, a Polk County family unjustifiable pain business owner who has and embarrassment …,” raised only about $6,000 from Horner said. “My family contributors but also loaned still deserves better from her campaign $10,300. Game’s me, as do all my friends, campaign did not return supporters and constituents.” calls requesting comment. He did not respond to “She went from a nobody to requests for an interview. a somebody in 20 seconds,” Horner is also president acknowledged Danny Sexton, Rep. Mike Horner of the Kissimmee/Osceola the chairman of the Osceola Chamber of Commerce. He County Republican Party, which was in the midst of a re-election campaign along with the Polk County GOP will choose a against Democrat Eileen Game for state candidate to run against Game. Party leaders House District 42, a race he was expected will need to do so within the next five days. to win easily Nov. 6. The district straddles Whoever they select faces major obstacles. Osceola and Polk counties and includes A new Republican candidate will have to pull St. Cloud, Lake Wales and Frostproof. a campaign together from scratch, raising Risner, 55, was arrested in August and was money and reaching out to voters in less formally charged earlier this month. He faces than two months. And whoever runs will 13 charges, including a first-degree felony have do so under Horner’s name: by state under the state’s Racketeer Influenced and law, his name must remain on the ballot. Corrupt Organization Act, known as RICO. “It does present some challenges. You Risner, who is free on bond, did not respond to would be a fool to say it doesn’t,” Sexton said. a call seeking comment. He does not yet have “There are certainly going to be some voters an attorney, the State Attorney’s Office said. upset over whatever happened. ... And you’ve Florida Department of Law Enforcement got to run a campaign that says, ‘I’m not Mike records show that the arrest is Risner’s first Horner. This is what I believe in. But when in Florida. He is scheduled to appear in court you vote, you’ve got to vote for Mike Horner.’ ‘’ next month. According to military records, Horner seemed to have a bright political Risner served 20 years in the U.S. Navy. future. He was active with state Reps. Details about the alleged prostitution Chris Dorworth of Lake Mary and Jason operation have not been made public because Brodeur of Sanford in raising money prosecutors are not required to disclose for Republican legislators through evidence until it’s requested by the defense. Citizens for an Enterprising Democracy. Horner, who served in the Florida Dorworth is scheduled to become Army National Guard, is married and has speaker of the Florida House in 2014. a young son. News of his involvement

September 26, 2012 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

NATIONAL NEWS NEWS NATIONAL

Has Chick-fil-A Turned Gay-Friendly? Not Really By Sergio N. Candido

hat made Chick-fil-A head The LGBT community and its allies Dan Cathy change his instead chose to do protests outside mind on the company’s Chick-fil-A restaurants and buy stance regarding gays? products from pro-gay companies. That’s still not clear, but the company has Human Rights Campaign, however, now come out affirming it will stop donating dismissed the memo as a publicity stunt. money to anti-gay groups. Well, kind of. “CfA offers their LGBT employees nothing The Civil Rights Agenda, a Chicago- but platitudes; they certainly don’t offer based LGBT group, reports in a press them any benefits or protections,” HRC release that Chick-fil-A has agreed to spokesman Fred Sainz told the Advocate. cut funds for religious, conservative “Their statements are completely empty groups that lobbied against gay marriage. unless they back them up with actions.” TCRA served as adviser to Chicago To make things worse, on Sept. 18, Alderman Joe Moreno during the Chick-fil-A President Dan Cathy tweeted negotiation of these concessions with the a photo from the 2012 WinShape Ride for executives at Chick-fil-A; exactly what those the Family. The photo showed a group of negotiations were about remains unclear. bikers and said: “WinShape Ride for the But the LGBT group says the friend Family bikers locked and loaded for 200 chicken company has declared in an mile ride to Wilmington out of Charleston.” internal document that The event was in it “will treat every person essence a fundraiser equally, regardless of for the Marriage and sexual orientation.” Family Foundation, “We are very pleased an organization that’s with this outcome and against gay marriage. thank Alderman Moreno The Marriage and Family for his work on this Foundation, formerly issue,” Anthony Martinez, known as the Marriage executive director of TCRA, and Family Legacy Fund, said in the statement. received donations of over “I think the most $2 million dollars in 2009 substantive part of this and 2012 from Chick-fil-A. outcome is that Chick-fil-A In total, the company has ceased donating to has donated about $5 organizations that promote million to anti-gay groups. discrimination, specifically Registrations forms against LGBT civil rights. for the event asked that It has taken months of checks be sent, not to the discussion, both with our WinShape Foundation Dan Cathy - President of Chick-fil-A organization and with the that Chick-fil-A operates, Alderman, for Chick-fil-A to come forward but directly to the Marriage and Family with these concessions and we feel this is a Foundation, according to the Advocate. strong step forward for Chick-fil-A and the Rick Garcia, policy advisor for TCRA, LGBT community, although it is only a step.” hopes that the next step for the company This past summer, Chick-fil-A and would be to adopt an anti-discrimination the company’s president, Dan Cathy, policy for its employees to prove that were at the center of a media storm it really is willing to be gay-friendly. when Cathy declared himself “guilty as “As we have heard from gay employees charged” of supporting anti-gay causes that work for Chick-fil-A, there is a culture with millions of dollars in donations. of discrimination within the company and The issue divided the nation and we would like to ensure that employees can sparked protests all over. Those backing speak out and call attention to those practices “traditional family values” supported the without fear of reprisal,” Garcia said. company by consuming its products on “It takes time to change the culture of Aug. 1 during “Chick-fil-A Appreciation any institution and steps like a corporate Day,” an event spearheaded by former policy ensure that progress is made.” presidential candidate Mike Huckabee.

September 26, 2012 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

www.lgbtHistoryMonth.com

September 26, 2012 â&#x20AC;˘ SouthFloridaGayNews.com

NATIONAL NEWS

Man Spent $30,000 in Exorcisms to ‘Cure’ Himself of Being Gay By Sergio N. Candido

eterson Toscano, a 47-year-old man from New York, said in an interview with the BBC that it took him 17 years and $30,000 spent on “ex-gay” conversion therapy to finally accept his sexuality. During that time, Toscano participated in three different conversion therapy treatments. In his last attempt he even traveled overseas to England to undergo a failed exorcism in the West Midlands. It was the last attempt, he said, to strip away the “gay demons” from his body. “I was doing something spiritually and morally wrong that I would be punished for in the afterlife. And so there was a lot of fear and terrible desperation.” Toscano, who grew up in a devout Christian family and attended an evangelical school, told the BBC. He now calls himself an “ex-gay therapy survivor” and says he’s against the treatment. “That sort of teaching is psychologically damaging, especially to young people,” he said. Gay cures are being banned worldwide. California recently approved a law banning

parents from subjecting their children to such therapy, according to the Gay Star News. Also, part of World Health Organization has condemned “gay cures” as dangerous and lacking medical justification.

September 26, 2012 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

Congregation Etz Chaim 5700 NW 94th Ave. Tamarac, FL 33321

954-564-9232 info@etzchaimflorida.org

•

www.EtzChaimFlorida.org

Bring in the New Year with a Fabulous Event! Join us for our

Grand Opening Saturday, Sept. 29 at 7pm At our new location on the campus of Temple Beth Torah

5700 NW 94th Ave. Tamarac Special Guest Speaker

Debbie Wasserman Schultz Entertainment by the Ensemble of the Gay Men’s Chorus of S. Florida Light refreshments will be served The event is free and all are welcome!

Jesse’s Journal

Justin Hernandez: Adventures Inside the Vortex

By Jesse Monteagudo

ative New Yorker Justin Hernandez is author of the blog Naked in New York City (www. n a ke d i n n ew yo r k c i t y. c o m ) , where he chronicles “life and dating in the Big Apple, with the occasional commentary on gay culture.” According to Justin, “Naked in New York City is a blog about my search for love in one of the most exciting cities in the world. I’m a former stripper, so the title is partially a thinly veiled, tongue in cheek reference to that time. I sometimes mix it up by writing about different aspects of gay culture that I find intriguing because I don’t want to be a one‑note blogger. In the past, some of the subjects I’ve addressed have ranged from my observations regarding the bareback sex community, to quickie encounters between men at the gym (or as I like to refer to them, steam room bunnies). I strive to write as honestly as possible, because it took me so long to get to the point where I embrace honesty as opposed to hiding from it.” The success of Hernandez’s blog inspired him to write about his life pre-Naked in New York City. Inside the Vortex (CreateSpace; $13.95), a prequel to the blog, chronicles the foundations of a life “based on abuse, denial, cover ups, and secrecy.” Inside the Vortex follows Hernandez’s life from his dysfunctional boyhood in the Bronx to a career as a dancer (erotic and otherwise) in Los Angeles; along with addictions and failed love affairs. “Here are all the highs and all the lows, told through the perspective of a person who is older and definitely wiser. I’m not a martyr. I’m just someone who has learned from the situations I’ve been in. My journey is far from over. It was never my plan to write about my past when I began the blog. I was in a really good place in life when I began Naked in New York City, and I just wanted to write about all the great things I was experiencing,” Hernandez said. “However, as the blog progressed, I realized that there were still some issues

from the ‘old days’ that were occasionally popping up. I alluded to them, and as a result people became curious. I decided a book would be the best way to address the past and show people how I got to the place of honesty that led me to create the blog.” Hernandez continued: “I don’t think my story should be considered a blueprint of what not to do. We all have our own paths to follow. What is amazing about the journey in life is that all the roads, both good and bad, lead us to different places. What happens next depends on what you learn from your experiences. I think my memoir shows that you can walk away from even the most horrific of circumstances and become a better person in the process.” In spite of it all, Hernandez has no regrets. “If anything about my life had played out differently, I might be a completely different person today.” Inside the Vortex is brutally honest about Hernandez’s family, friends, and ex‑lovers. Has there been a reaction from the people Hernandez wrote about? “My best friend Ray is very proud of me, as are my parents. I haven’t heard anything from my exes, although I did reach out to one of them shortly after the book was published only because I did disclose his HIV status,” he said. “But I’m not worried though. The truth sets everyone free, and it’s not like I went off on some bashing tirade. I aired all of my unsavory moments with them, so I don’t come off looking so great either. Besides, with the exception of one, I changed all of their first names and I didn’t use their last names.” Outside of Hernandez’s own circle of family and friends, the reaction to Inside the Vortex “has been amazing. I’m proud of what I wrote, but as with anything that becomes available for public consumption, I had to be prepared for the possibility that not everyone will love it. So far though, the public response has been favorable. The best has been the messages I have received

from outside of the LGBT community. I wrote this book with my target audience in mind, and the fact that somehow this book has wound up on the radar of some heterosexual readers has been incredible.” Will there be a sequel to Inside the Vortex? “Yes there will be, but I would like a few years to pass before I consider a direct follow-up. I’m seeing things through a completely different point of view than I did during my twenties and a good portion

of my thirties,” Hernandez says. “I equate it to someone who has been in a coma for a long period of time, and then wakes up. I was in an emotional coma for 27 years, and as a result, some things are foreign and feel like brand new experiences. Even things that I took for granted in the past are now exciting to me. So no immediate sequel, but I’m going to keep writing because I absolutely love it! I have plans for two other non-fiction books, and of course, I’ll keep blogging.”

September 26, 2012 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

NATIONAL NEWS

Reality Star Launches Website For HIV+ Gay Men By Sergio Candido Sergio.Candido@sfgn.com

rindr has made it easier for incorporate features like forums and blogs gay men all over the world to that will strengthen a sense of community find a hot date, but for HIV- and acceptance,” Mackenroth said. positive gay men it can be more While the site targets HIV-positive gay men,it difficult as they may face discrimination. will not ask members to clarify their HIV status. Here comes Volttage.com, a new Mackenroth explains: “We take the stance social networking that everyone should assume website that hopes to their partner is HIV positive strip away that stigma. and proceed accordingly. According to Instinct, Asking someone their status the new hook up website is rather pointless, as people is set to launch on Oct. 1. may not know or even lie Its creator, AIDS activist about it to avoid rejection. and former Project Runway We encourage members contestant Jack Mackenroth, to be out and proud but said he hopes to create we understand that the not only a forum where stigma can be prohibitive so gay HIV-positive men can members control all of their meet, but also a database own content. I hope that the of information, support sense of community will help and resources for thel members ‘come out’ about HIV-positive community. their status over time.” Jack Mackenroth – Reality star and founder of Volttage.com, a dating site for “Sex sells, but we are Website features will HIV-postive gay men much more than a hookup very much resemble site. We provide an alternative for HIV+ those of Grindr. The company will also men who often feel stigmatized and employ a staff physician who will be discriminated against on the other sites. available to answer health questions. Vist Volttage.com for more information. As the site develops and grows, we will

September 26, 2012 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

Pretty in Pink? COVER STORY

Miami Beach Rejects AHF Color Scheme for Thrift Store

By Elliot Joseph Photos by Mitchell Zachs

he President of the AIDS Healthcare Foundation, Michael Weinstein, has accused the city of Miami Beach as being ‘vindictive’ and singling his non-profit out for special treatment by failing to get approval of the color scheme for their pink building before painting it. The ‘Out of the Closet’ thrift store chain executive held a press conference on Tuesday, September 25, to decry the city officials’ recent rejection of the store’s request to allow approval for the paint color of the chain’s trademark magenta pink exterior facade. Throughout the city appeals process, AHF officials claim they were told repeatedly by city officials that Miami Beach does not approve pink buildings. AHF must now launch another appeal to the city’s Planning Department, but claim the process is hypocritical, as numerous buildings in the city match their own design and color, and have previously been routinely approved without question. Aaron Vinson, of Hollingsworth

Architects and Planners, who served as a design consultant for AHF on the store disputed the city’s claims. “I did research around town identifying other pink buildings and some buildings that aren’t pink, but are much more ‘intense’ than the color charts—so the Planning Committee has approved much more intense colors,” Vinson said. Architect Vinson showed pictures of numerous other buildings in the city with “intense” color figurations, including the deep blues and reds at 500 Southpointe Drive. Earlier this year, officials from the city’s Planning Department issued compliance citations to the store—which also houses an AHF Pharmacy and a free HIV testing facility, after AHF painted the Out of the Closet storefront the same standard magenta pink its other 21 store locations in Florida, California and Amsterdam are painted. However, the color was apparently not on the Planning Department’s list of approved colors on the city’s “official reference color

AHF’s Out of the Closet store in Miami Beach.

chart,” which prompted an initial citation and AHF’s subsequent appeals process. “Every indication we have from Miami Beach officials throughout this process suggests that we are being singled out for punitive measures because we had the temerity to paint our South Beach business our standard colors without first having gotten the blessing of city planning officials,” Weinstein said . “What city officials are now doing seems vindictive and contrary to the standards that other businesses in the city are being held to,” he said. “Miami Beach has a rich and colorful architectural and art palette—from its Art Deco architecture in the 1930s to ‘Miami Vice’ in the 1980s.” Indeed, the city has become known internationally for its vast and splendid array of colorful art deco buildings. Only a block away from AHF, a Pollo Tropical screams out in mustard yellow and lime green. That was the main point of AHF’s July appeal to the Planning committee.

Vinson noted that AHF’s “pink color was the primary component of AHF’s national branding for ‘Out of the Closet,’ which was extremely important, not for sales, but as part of the campaign for people to be tested for HIV….we also told the Planning Committee that this color was important to create a cheerful environment for those possibly receiving news on their HIV status and those refilling their medications at the AHF Pharmacy.” But Vinson pointed out that during the approval process, “there was a comment from a board member that the color would never be approved in Miami Beach and our appeal was a waste of the board’s time…” It was then that Vinson toured the city and took a number of photographs of many other pink buildings in the city, which were pink. Reviewing the city’s color chart, he found their approach inconsistent, finding that many of the other approved structures were even more intense in color than AHF’s magenta façade. “We are proud to have opened this ‘Out of the Closet’ store and HIV testing site in South Beach, something that offered the chance to make a real difference in the community,” said Michael Kahane, Bureau Chief, Southern Region for AIDS Healthcare Foundation. Still, Kahane lamented the city’s intransigence over this seemingly foolish issue: “We are saddened that the city seems to be so blindingly bureaucratic on this… the community’s use of this facility helps ensure that people living with HIV/AIDS receive the medical care and services they need. It’s maddening that city officials have arbitrary targeted us and that we have had to spend so much time fighting for the color of our storefront.” At the press conference on Tuesday, Kahane was more specific, stating that it was his belief that the City of Miami Beach was “targeting AHF….because they don’t want an HIV testing center in a highlyvisible, well-trafficked tourist community.” SFGN reached out to the City of Miami Beach for comment but as of press time they have not responded.

September 26, 2012 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

September 26, 2012 â&#x20AC;˘ SouthFloridaGayNews.com

Wayne’s World

CFA Will No Longer Fund Anti-Gay Political Orgs

Wayne Besen

ruth Wins Out called on Chickfil-A executives to very publicly announce its allege divorce from anti-gay organizations and confirm its new pledge not to fund homophobic political groups though its Winshape Foundation. This is important because when TWO attended the Values Voter Summit in Washington last week, “Chick-filA” had become a code phrase for anti-gay activists disapproval of LGBT equality. “Chick-fil-A is now viewed by the extreme right as its Alamo – a defiant fortress against corporate America’s widespread embrace of LGBT equality,” said Truth Wins Out’s Executive Director Wayne Besen. “It is a big victory if the company is no longer holding the banner of intolerance and is back in the business of poultry instead of anti-gay politics.” According to reports, Chicago Ald. Proco “Joe” Moreno has struck a deal with Chick-fil-A that will allow the chain to open in his ward, after months of controversy that started with anti-gay comments made by the restaurant’s chief operating officer, Dan Cathy. According to Moreno and The Civil Rights Agenda (TCRA), the company will no longer donate money to anti-gay organizations and has issued a memo about respectful treatment of LGBT employees and customers. Recently, Chick-fil-A’s Cathy created a furor when he claimed that those who support marriage equality for same sex couples are “inviting God’s judgment on our nation.” The com-

ments caused several mayors of major cities, such as Boston, Chicago, and Washington, DC to express their contempt for the food chain. The issue reached its apogee when polarizing political figures, such as Mike Huckabee and Sarah Palin, sponsored Chick-fil-A Appreciation Day. While the corporation had a single day of huge sales, the controversy badly tarnished the brand and turned the product radioactive in America’s major metropolitan regions. This controversy extends beyond Cathy’s comments and includes his more than $5 million in donations to anti-gay organizations such as The Family Research Council. His Winshape Foundation has also contributed to Exodus International, which has worked in the past to help people “pray away the gay.” “The only way for Chick-fil-A to save the long-term viability of its brand is to publicly declare its divorce from anti-gay extremists,” added Besen. “Today’s announcement that it won’t be funding flagrantly anti-gay organizations is a good start and we hope to see more of a commitment to fairness in the future.” Truth Wins Out is a nonprofit organization that fights anti-LGBT extremism. TWO specializes in turning information into action by organizing, advocating and fighting for LGBT equality. Visit www.truthwinsout.org for more information.

September 26, 2012 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

McNaught’s Notes

that the primary drive in all living things is self-preservation, and that we create alliances that facilitate that goal. Sometimes the terms are clear, and there are no expectations beyond what has been stated and agreed upon. The Axis and Allied forces during World War II didn’t assume friendship. Not everyone tries to become friends Brian McNaught with their real estate agent, their sex partner, their dog, people who share their agenda, or an angel. It is perhaps my stronger need person stopped me on the street a couple for a sense of belonging that prompts me to of days ago and introduced himself. make friends with everyone. It feels good. “We’re friends on Facebook,” he told But it’s not as real as I’d like to imagine. me. I pretended to remember because Jesus imagined that Judas and Peter I didn’t want to hurt his feelings. were better friends than they turned out Sometimes, even the people to whom to be. They may have imagined that Jesus we thought we were close, such as spouses, would better meet their needs to feel safe siblings, neighbors, and valued. I think it’s and colleagues, among normal and natural to “Our imagination is a priceless gift of others, represent a fantasy want more in someone friendship. The person perspective that allows us to create or something than we is real enough, but our worlds in which we feel safe and valued.” get, or is even possible. relationship is nowhere It’s the nature of our near as real as we imagine. needs. And ultimately, it Many of us have had the his cell area have created a community. He is doesn’t matter if our friendships aren’t what experience of enjoying what we imagined the oldest of the group, and is watched over we imagined. Accepting this reality makes it were close friendships with trades people, by the younger inmates. There is intimacy, less likely we’ll be disappointed, and more such as housekeepers, decorators, real estate agents, or contractors. We laugh with but no one should imagine that if one of likely that we’ll feel okay about talking to an them, tell them our secrets, and take great them is released he will visit the others. angel or a saint that may or may not exist. Members of minority groups can be Likewise, despite our lowered expectations comfort in having someone in our lives imaginary friends. Those of us who have of what is real, sometimes we’re delightfully that cares about how we feel. Then, the job taken active roles in the civil rights struggles surprised by the depth of some friendships is done and our imaginary friendship ends. of other minority groups, assume that all of we didn’t imagine would endure. I’m People who have sex with strangers the members of their group are our friends currently playing an on-line Scrabble are adults with imaginary friends. They search the Internet for intimacy and because we share the common enemy game with my college girlfriend, and the generally can’t remember the other person’s of inequality, and we need each other’s connection feels real and wonderful. Friendships are what both people choose name, if they even asked for it. Often, support to succeed. But not every black person is an ally to gay people, and vice them to be. their name is as fake as the relationship. versa. It was our need not to feel so alone The compulsion with which these Brian McNaught was named “the godfather of gay men seek out fulfillment is energy that encouraged our imagination to assume diversity training” by The New York Times. He works taken away from the people in their that there was more to the friendship than with corporate executives globally, is the author of lives who could be real friends. there was. Gay and transgender people six books, and is featured in seven educational DVDs. Sometimes, we assume friendship with often have the same type of friendship. Visit Brian-McNaught.com for more information. There’s nothing wrong with acknowledging

Imaginary Friends

aving imaginary friends as children is considered normal, but when you do so as an adult, your sanity can be questioned by others. As a child, a favorite nephew of ours had two imaginary friends who worked for him in his imaginary company. He’s now an adult on Wall Street, and his best friend is his wife, who is very real. Many of us recall clapping as children to keep Tinker Bell alive. Responding to Peter Pan’s plea, we yelled, “I do believe in fairies.” Television programs today have adults talking to their dead wives and to other incarnations, but always hiding their conversations from others. Catholic children were taught that we had Guardian Angels with whom we were encouraged to have conversations in the form of a rhyming prayer. Millions of adult Catholics throughout the world talked to St. Christopher each time they traveled. We wore chains with the image of St. Christopher around our necks, and had miniature plastic statues of him on the dashboards of our cars, so that we didn’t get into an accident. Then the Vatican admitted that there was no St. Christopher. But that doesn’t stop some adults from still asking him for help, as well as other saints who may or may not have lived. Facebook creates imaginary friends. I have nearly two thousand. I say “yes” to almost everyone who wants to be my friend. But our friendship is imaginary. A

horses, dogs, and cats. We imagine they feel the same way about us as we do about them. Like the gay and straight men who save their passionate kisses for strangers, people who save their sweet talk for pets often never have enough time to create true friendships with other human beings. I know a guy who has an imaginary relationship with his motorcycle. Sometimes we even name our cars and motorcycles. My bike is called “Barney.” Our imagination is a priceless gift of perspective that allows us to create worlds in which we feel safe and valued. Young children have tea parties with dolls and stuffed rabbits because it allows them to feel less alone. Imaginary friends meet a need, ours or theirs. Recently, Ray and I sat with a longtime friend of ours in prison. He and the others in

September 26, 2012 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

Catching My Breath

One Month in Wilton Manors I

’m a Seattle boy who spent the past two years living in Anchorage, Alaska and finally realized I was done with the cold and snow and decided to give South Florida a try. So on August 14 I boarded a plane to Fort Lauderdale to see what all the hype was about. I’ve been here a month and I’ve made some observations, some good, some bad and some just bizarre. Here’s my story of a month in Wilton Manors. It’s a lot older than I imagined. I know that the average age in Florida is higher, because it’s a retirement haven, but I didn’t realize that also applied to the gay men. I went to Alibi my second night here, it was a Wednesday and the place was packed. I was the youngest guy in the joint by far, and I’m 31. I thought to myself, “It’s a week night, I’m sure the young ones are out on the weekend.” Well I was right, the young ones do come out on the weekend, but there’s not very many of them and most of

Jeromy Cartpenter them drive from Boca or Miami, where the colleges are located. So I wandered over to Boom with my friend to do a little dancing and I was immediately assaulted by a nasty cloud of cigarette smoke. Mind you, I smoke sometimes when I drink, but most places in the country haven’t allowed smoking indoors since I was 21. So I gave it a shot, I tried drinking and dancing there but only lasted about an hour before I had to leave. It was too smoky and it was 1 in the morning, so I called a cab to take me back to the beach. The next day I was interviewing for jobs and within two weeks I had an apartment in Wilton Manors that I found on Craigslist. It’s a little bit of a walk to “The Drive” as it’s called here but I like it. It’s on a quiet little street and I kinda felt like one of the Golden Girls, pulling up into the driveway with all the tropical plants around. There was no concern about getting mugged, as I’d heard from some people who have lived in the

area before. I took most of the negative warnings about Wilton Manors with a grain of salt, because I figured the only people stupid enough to get mugged are the ones stumbling home drunk with their iPhone waving in the air for everyone to see. And I was right. I never had any trouble. I also didn’t have any trouble getting laid. It was like slipping on the sidewalk around here. Cock and ass everywhere, sometimes bobbing around in public, like at the Cabanas, where my friends were staying. It’s a clothing optional resort in Wilton Manors, in case you’ve never heard of it. Apparently there are many of those around here. I did, however, start to notice a little bit of a trend. Among the younger guys in the area, there were some pretty bitchy, entitled, whiny little boys who seemed to think that everyone else should serve and protect them, like they’re some kind of royalty. Well maybe

around here where they’re outnumbered by men twice their age by a ratio of six to one, they are royalty. But where I come from, Seattle, they’re a dime a dozen. All in all, it was a fantastic month-long vacation, and that’s it. I’d love to come back in the winter and see what the busy season is like, especially once it starts to get down into the 30’s in New York. But as for living here, I can now safely say that it’s not for me. It’s too hot in the summer and I sweat my balls off just sitting on the couch, let alone walking around in the mid day heat. There’s no real public transportation, and I’m not the kind of guy who likes to drive all over the country. The beaches are beautiful and the water is warm. The clubs are fun and the nightlife is vibrant every day of the week. I’ll definitely recommend it to any of my friends needing a sunny, gay escape. Thank you Wilton Manors. It’s been a blast!

September 26, 2012 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

Publisher’s Editorial

Pro Sports Coming out of the closet

n 1975, David Kopay, three years after retiring from professional football, acknowledged in a Washington Star interview that he was a gay man. At the time, 37 years ago, he was the first NFL player to come out. His voice resonated nationally, but homophobia in sports still exists today as it did yesterday. It takes courageous people to stand naked against the cannon in order to stop the hate which has come our way. David Kopay was such a man. Last week, we ran with the story of a major league baseball player who published a gay slur on his eye black. In past years, we have covered stories of major leaguers, coaches, and managers denigrating gay fans and people living with HIV. Thankfully, in the more enlightened world we live in, those derogatory remarks are often met with sanctions and suspensions. Not just the public, but management, has come to recognize that it is not socially acceptable or professionally tolerable to countenance bullying and name calling. Gay fans have money too, and outreach matters. This is why a San Francisco Giants coach was sent for sensitivity training after berating gays with public slurs. It’s why the

Norm Kent, Publisher NBA fined Kobe Bryant a cool 50 grand for calling a ref making a bad call a ‘faggot.’ This year, SFGN is partnering with the You Can Play Project and Florida Panthers to conduct a charitable fund raising night at the BB&T Center in Sunrise. We are not only going to have the Fort Lauderdale Gay Men’s Chorus sing the National Anthem, we are hoping to put a few thousand LGBT people in the stands. We matter, we count, and we are a part of the social fabric, not apart from it. Two years ago, SFGN featured Hudson Taylor in a back page story. He is the founder and executive director of Athlete Ally, a group promoting acceptance of gay men and women in the world of sports. A straight man who now coaches wrestling at Columbia University, Hudson has said that “Homophobic language is the tool used to diminish a player’s masculinity.” Few people cover the issue better than Outsports.com, run and managed by Cyd Zeigler, whose stories shed light every day on the widespread, but ever so discreet world within which gay athletes keep their sexual orientation hidden. Zeigler acknowledges that the fear of the unknown has inhibited the forthrightness

September 26, 2012 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

he would like to see come forth. Professional sports are still a bastion of unrelenting homophobia, an arena where talented athletes still fight and resist openness about sexuality. It is obvious, if not transparent, that hundreds, if not thousands, of professional athletes have been gay. No one reveals it while they are playing. An athlete’s job is to play a game well on the field, not to talk about who they are doing off of it. Billy Bean, a gay South Florida real estate agent, who has recently relocated to Southern California, where he played professional baseball for teams such as the Dodgers, recently said it best: “Unless your primary goal as an athlete is to be an ambassador for gay rights, you’re bound to pause before creating such a distraction.” Sooner, rather than later, a star professional athlete on a major team sport in a major league city will open up about his personal life. As more and more stories emerge about homosexuality and sports, the revelation is inevitable. Athletes like to stay focused on the game at hand rather than a social cause which needs an advocate. They don’t want their identity to become a distraction and inhibit a stellar performance. In that respect, we have a lot of Anderson Coopers at shortstop or on the defensive line. At the right time, in the right place, they will find their moment. Kevin McClatchy did so last Saturday on the op-ed page of the New York Times. When he was named the General Manager of the Pittsburgh Pirates at age 33 in 1994, he was one of the youngest executives in the sport. Now the chairman of a Board which publishes more than two dozen newspapers, including the Miami Herald, he shared with Times columnist Frank Bruni intimate details of his personal, homosexual life, concealed for decades as a ‘community icon.’ “I think, with everybody, there’s a time that feels right, and for me this was a time. My hope is that it’s going to be able to help younger kids that want to get into professional sports

Kevin McClatchy

and feel there are still great barriers. But I think, more important than that, it needs to create a dialogue about major league sports and sort of the void obviously that exists. Rick Welts graced the front page of the New York Times last year, when, as the president and chief executive officer of the Phoenix Suns basketball, team, revealed he’s gay. His revelation came with the tale that his relationship of 14 years was coming apart because his partner rejected continuing a shadowed life. “This is one of the last industries where the subject is off limits,” said Welts, at the time. “Nobody’s comfortable in engaging in a conversation.” If we are going to put an end to homophobia and bullying and brutalizing of young gay men and women, what better time than today, Yom Kippur, the Day of Atonement, to say “If not now, when?” Earlier this month, Chris Kluwe, a Baltimore Ravens linebacker said that he supports gay marriage, and stirred controversy. Some moron in the Maryland legislature tried to censure him. But it was the legislator who met with approbation, disdain and contrition. The world is evolving, and the time has come where the first out athlete will be met with praise for his courage rather than a bean ball meant for his head. Having spent most of my adult life on playing fields, interacting with athletes, I have concluded all they really care about is winning- and playing with teammates who bust their tail and give their all to make it happen. Whose tail they are busting with no one will ever care about if you throw the winning pass or get the walk off base hit.

LGBT History Month

South Florida Makes History, Literally LGBT History Month official in Broward County By Gideon Grudo

Not enough? Here’s more: It’s the first county in the nation to do so. Not enough? Here’s more: The Sept. 19 vote was unanimous. Emotions ran high as the vote came at 12:51 p.m. — it was preceded by a dozen or so speeches, both from public officials and private civilians, like 18-yearold Leo Washington, a Hollywood Hills High School student. “I’m 18. I’m a Christian. I’m an African-American. I’m an actor. I’m a model. I’m a varsity football player. I’m a team captain. I’m a club president. I’m all of those things,” Washington’s speech notes read. He choked up reading it all. “And I’m also gay. I’m here today to ask the school board to recognize LGBT History Month.” Washington said he knows of at least 30 people in his school who are LGBT but afraid to come out as such. “There’s a lot of people out there that come to me and tell me they can’t come out. It can be really bad,” he said. “All we want is to recognize them for who they are so we can recognize ourselves for who we are. That’s what I want for every student in every school.” One of the influential community leaders who pushed this measure and was recognized by the board as having done so was Michael Rajner, a local LGBT activist. “There’s some amazing staff at the district,” Rajner told SFGN. “We have a school board now, unlike previous years, that has amazing support to protect equal opportunity for all students.” Board Member Laurie Levinson presented the resolution and read it in its entirety (see sidebar) before moderating the various speakers. “It’s the first step to equality for LGBT people in our schools,” she said. “Knowing more about these individuals can be an asset.” Board Member Robin Bartleman told the various student speakers

that they have made history, too. “You’re going to be the individuals that students will read about in future LGBT history months,” she said. “Every child deserves to feel safe — not just in their school, but in their own skin.” The resolution does not set a curriculum or force any teachers into anything, but rather opens the door for teachers to create curriculums surrounding LGBT history and teach another segment in school that may have been overlooked up until now. In California, the Fair, Accurate, Inclusive

Over time, we have updated our educational standards to be more factual and inclusive of the roles of women and members of other racial, ethnic and cultural groups,” he wrote. “All students benefit when we provide them with an education that is factual and reflects the diversity of the human experience.” But that’s in California. Does the school board vote mean that South Florida will also be home to curriculums including LGBT subjects and topics? For now, it’s only by teachers’ choice. Macolm Lazin, executive director of Equality Forum, which was largely pushing this measure forward, said that this is a “groundbreaking change” for the U.S.’s sixth largest school district. “We’ve traditionally said the LGBT community is the only minority worldwide whose history is not taught in schools,” he said. “LGBT History month and its recognition is important. Step two is education. This is where one gets real pride. Through knowledge that one builds self-esteem and community.” To this end, Equality Forum has been providing a website (www. LGBThistorymonth.com) helping educators and legislators understand how significant LGBT history can be. Read about it on page 18. “It’s not that long ago that we were invisible. That’s why having those educational resources and teaching them is important,” Lazin said, adding that he thinks it’s just a matter of time before South Florida adopts a California model of LGBT education. “This is a giant first step in that effort,” he said. Professor and long-time South Florida LGBT historian Fred Fejes said that it’s important to remember that “history is a messy thing” when assessing the significance of the school district vote. “As a gay man, I think it’s great. As a historian, I’m very aware that history’s put to a lot of uses. There is often a tendency to create a very cosmetic celebratory history of a movement, a people, or a race.” He said, adding that Fort Lauderdale, for example, excludes its racist history when celebrating its history. There are other examples, too, Fejes said, like the Tea Party using the Declaration of Independence to legitimate itself. He emphasized that he’s not demeaning Photo By: Michael Rajner

he Broward County School Board officially recognizes October as LGBT History Month.

leo washington and laurie levinson

and Respectful (FAIR) Act passed in the summer of 2011, requiring that textbooks and curriculums introduce LGBT history to its students. The bill came from Senator Mark Leno, who on Sept. 20 (a day after the vote) wrote an op-ed for the Bay Times, an LGBT paper in San Francisco. “For far too long, our history lessons have left out the contributions of many groups.

negatively portraying the vote. “This type of vote is one more step in terms of a great normalization of the LGBT community. It may lead to something and it may not,” Fejes said. Historically, significant social change often comes when a leader (like the president) comes out supporting something, like Obama supporting same-sex marriage. Such a leader can provide cover for a lot of other legislators to support same-sex marriage. Lyndon Johnson had a similar effect with civil rights. “A lot of this stuff you can only evaluate in retrospect. If Obama gets defeated in the election, for example, his support for samesex marriage is no longer as significant as we thought,” Fejes said. “This is more like an incremental acknowledgement of the lesbian and gay community. I remember back in the 80s when people were rally excited when Reagan said the word AIDS — it was like, ‘Oh my god, things are going to change.’ But that didn’t happen.” It’s the radical cultural changes that are happening within professional sports that are really at the fore front of the LGBT movement, Fejes maintained, and will have a bigger impact than items like the school board’s vote. But that’s not to say Fejes isn’t optimistic and sees the vote as positive step forward. Rajner whole-heartedly agreed. “Over the last several years, we’ve had wonderful progress— we often criticize an entity such as the school board for not doing things for the community,” Rajner said. “But lately, there’s been a wonderful partnership between the school board and community leaders to really figure out what we need.”

Watch history as it happened To see the entire (almost 40-minute) discussion and vote, follow these steps: 1. Go to www.becon.tv 2. Using the buttons on the top, hover over Schedules, then hover over Becon TV, then click on Becon on Demand 3. In the middle column, click on School Board Meetings and Select file M_9_19_2012 This item comes on from minute 118:50 to minutes 157:20.

September 26, 2012 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

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LGBTMonth History

An “iconic” project that will feature LGBT role models

By Lisa Lucas

n school, children are taught history. Pictures of presidents, composers, authors, poets are hung in the halls and plastered in text books. In church, children are taught about saints and apostles whose images appear in paintings and statues. At camp, children are taught about athletic heroes, their photos traded on baseball cards and sportswear. But there is no place that children are taught about people who are “different.” There is no Hall of Fame for LGBT heroes where gays and lesbians can learn about the people who have made an impact on their community. So Malcolm Lazin, a prominent Philadelphia attorney who is executive director of EqualityForum. com, decided to build one…virtually. “This is a breakthrough year for LGBT history month and our

1. Roberta Achtenberg 2. Gloria Anzaldua 3. Ann Bannon 4. Katharine Lee Bates 5. Mary Bonauto 6. Glenn Burke 7. Paul Cadmus 8. Truman Capote 9. Chris Colfer 10. Kate Clinton 11. Ramon Cortines 12. Marlene Dietrich 13. Jodie Foster 14. Jean Paul Gaultier 15. Henry Gerber

community,” Lazin said. “In the past we’ve said the LGBT community is the only minority not taught it’s history at home, in public schools or religious institutions. But with the Broward Florida School District and L.A. School District embracing LGBT history month that is no longer the case.” Lazin though has been trying to educate people since 2006, when he launched LGBThistorymonth. com on EqualityForum.com – an LGBT activism website. Equality Forum, an international LGBT civil rights organization with an educational focus, coordinates LGBT History Month worldwide and produces documentaries, undertakes high-impact initiatives and presents the largest national and international LGBT civil rights summit annually. Every day in October featured on their website will be an “icon” – someone who has distinguished

students to learn about LGBT history. “I don’t know if we had any direct inf luence on that decision but I know themselves as making we are reaching more and significant contributions more people everyday,” to LGBT rights. There’s Lazin said. And according also going to be a video, to statistics he is right. biography, bibliography, And just last week downloadable images the Broward County and other educational School District passed a resources, available as well. resolution recognizing Part of the goal of the October as LGBT History project is to encourage Month and encouraging high schools, colleges teachers to add it to Malcolm Lazin - Founder and community centers their curriculum. to download the “Broward and L.A. materials and create exhibits. represent a giant step. They are two In 2010, the federal government of the largest school districts in the recognized the project with Secretary nation,” Lazin said. “Students will Arne Duncan launching LGBT finally learn about the important History Month ceremonies at the contributions of the LGBT community U.S. Department of Education. Lazin through LGBT history month.” believes this is a major accomplishment. Visit LGBTHistoryMonth.com or In some places though LGBT history EqualityForum.com download materials or is starting to be taught in school. for more information. Last year the FAIR Education Act in California was passed and will require

October 2012 LGBT History Month Icons

Don Lemon –CNN Anchor

Chris Colfer – Actor

Mary Kay Henry – Activist

RuPual – Entertainer

Jodie Foster – Actress

Holly Near –Singer/Activist

Chris Hughes – Entrepreneur

Irshad Manji – Muslim Activist

16. Billy Haines 17. Mary Kay Henry 18. Chris Hughes 19. Christine Jorgensen 20. Arthur Laurents 21. Don Lemon 22. Federico Garcia Lorca 23. Irshad Manji 24. Katherine Miller 25. Holly Near 26. RuPaul 27. Pierre Seel 28. Billy Strayhorn 29. Jon Stryker 30. Tom Waddell 31. Rev. Robert Wood

September 26, 2012 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

LGBTMonth History

Roberta Achtenberg Government b. July 20, 1950 “The ability to be in public life has been enormously positive to our movement.”

oberta Achtenberg serves as a commissioner of the U.S. Commission on Civil Rights. She is the first openly gay presidential appointee confirmed by the Senate. Achtenberg was born in Los Angeles. Her father emigrated from the Soviet Union and her mother from Canada. The family owned a neighborhood grocery store. Achtenberg earned a bachelor’s degree from the University of California, Berkeley, where she met her future husband. The couple moved to Salt Lake City, where Achtenberg earned a law degree from the University of Utah. In 1979, after divorcing, Achtenberg met Mary Morgan, an attorney later appointed to a judgeship in the San Francisco Municipal Court. The couple became partners and had a son. Achtenberg was first elected to public office on the San Francisco Board of Supervisors. As an out lesbian elected official, she garnered national attention. During the Clinton administration she served as Assistant Secretary for Fair Housing and Equal Opportunity. In 1993, she was appointed Assistant Secretary of the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). Despite Senator Jesse Helms’s vocal refusal to vote for “that damned lesbian,” Achtenberg became the first out appointee confirmed by the Senate. Despite Ku Klux Klan opposition, she developed an integrated public housing project in a previously all- white Texas town. In 2011, President Obama named Achtenberg to the U.S. Commission on Civil Rights. She serves as a corporate advisor in community development to the Lennar Corporation and is a director of the software company AJWI. Previously, she was a staff attorney for the Lesbian Rights Project of Equal Rights Advocates. She is a cofounder of the National Center for Lesbian Rights. Achtenberg received a GLAAD Visibility Award and was recognized by the San Francisco Business Times as one of the Bay Area’s “Most Influential Businesswomen.”

Glen Burke

Mary Bonauto

Athlete b. November 16, 1955 d. May 30, 1995

Lawyer b. June 8, 1961

“They can’t ever say now that a gay man can’t play in the majors, because I’m a gay man and I made it.”

lenn Burke was the first Major League Baseball player to come out to his teammates and managers during his career. Born in California, Burke attended Berkeley High School, where he excelled in multiple sports. He briefly attended University of Nevada on a basketball scholarship before the Los Angeles Dodgers drafted him. Burke played minor league baseball for four years until his major league debut in 1976. Burke is known as the originator of the “high five.” After Dusty Baker hit his 30th home run of the season, Burke greeted his teammate at home plate with an open palm. “His hand was up in the air, and he was arching way back so I reached up and hit his hand,” Baker said. “It seemed like the thing to do.” While with the Dodgers, Burke began to openly express his sexual orientation. The Dodgers manager offered the outfielder a bonus to marry a woman, which Burke declined. “Glenn was comfortable with who he was,” said a childhood friend. “Baseball was not comfortable with who he was.” In 1977, the Dodgers traded Burke to the Oakland Athletics. Many of his teammates believed that Burke was traded because of his sexual orientation. In 1980, while playing for the A’s, he faced similar discrimination and retired. In 1982, Burke publicly came out in an Inside Sports article, titled “The Double Life of a Dodger.” After leaving baseball,Burke worked odd jobs.He became homeless and began using drugs. In 1988, he served a 16-month jail sentence for grand theft and drug possession. In 1995, Burke died from AIDS-related complications. A documentary about his life, “Out. The Glenn Burke Story” (2010), aired on sports channels.

“It’s not about me, it’s about the people in the lawsuits, the plaintiffs and their stories.”

or more than two decades, Mary Bonauto has served as the civil rights project director at Gay & Lesbian Advocates & Defenders (GLAD). Regarded by The Advocate as “the country’s most powerful lawyer in the marriage equality fight,” Bonauto was lead counsel in legalizing same-sex marriage in Massachusetts and in overturning key provisions of the Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA). Born into a strict Catholic family in Newburgh, New York, Bonauto graduated from Hamilton College and the Northeastern University School of Law. In 1987, when she joined a small firm in Maine, Bonauto was only one of three openly gay lawyers in private practice in the state. In 1989, she went to work for GLAD. She helped enforce Massachusetts’s new law protecting gays and lesbians from discrimination in employment, housing and public accommodations. Bonauto was involved in litigation, lobbying and public education throughout New England. She served as co-counsel in Baker v. Vermont, which challenged the state’s prohibition of same-sex marriage. The landmark 1999 ruling mandated in Vermont the country’s first civil unions with legal benefits similar to marriage. Bonauto was lead counsel in Goodridge v. Department of Public Health, the litigation for marriage equality in Massachusetts. In 2003, the state’s highest court became the first in the nation to legalize same-sex marriage. Bonauto led GLAD’s successful challenge to overturn DOMA in Gill v. Office of Personnel Management. In a 3-0 decision, the lower court ruling was upheld by the United States Court of Appeals, laying the groundwork for review by the United States Supreme Court. In 2011, Boston Magazine named Bonauto one of the city’s “50 Most Powerful Women.” She was awardedYale University’s Brudner prize for her contributions to the LGBT community. She has served as co-chair of the Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity Committee of the American Bar Association. Bonauto lives in Portland, Maine, with her partner of 23 years and their twin daughters.

For More LGBT Icons Visit: LGBTHistoryMonth.com

September 26, 2012 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

STONEwALLED, Pt. 2 Censorship controversy continues

The saga of the censored exhibit enrages more

By Gideon Grudo

t really becomes censorship when the National Coalition Against Censorship (NCAC) writes you a letter with a question like, “How is cultural understanding to be built, if the Museum caters to the very prejudices it seeks to oppose?” That’s what happened to the Stonewall National Museum and Archives after it decided to take down an art exhibit that upset some visitors. SFGN covered the incident in its Sept. 19 issue. Days later, Svetlana Mintcheva penned the above quoted letter to Tom Tabor, chair of the Stonewall board. She wrote that the group is “deeply concerned” over the removal of Jeff Larson’s exhibit “Men in Living Rooms.” The exhibit, which was allowed to run its course through opening night on Sept. 12, was subsequently cancelled. It depicted, as its name implies, the looks of living rooms where gay men live. None of the pictures depicted explicit nudity — clothes or body parts covered all genital areas. “Given the various multi-uses by different groups in the limited space at Stonewall, it was determined by the Chair, Tom Tabor, to cancel the remaining period of the exhibit to October,” Tabor wrote in an official statement to SFGN. Tabor explained in the statement that the Museum has been working extensively with nearby schools, which raised its concerns over the exhibit since it didn’t to risk an “overreach” that would endanger this “opportunity. “The museum, library and archives have thousands of wonderful, provocative and explicit pieces and Stonewall is proud to share and exhibit them,” Tabor wrote. “The issue is how best to do so, and also best work to contribute to student LGBT education.” But Svetlana Mintcheva disagrees with this sentiment in her letter, claiming there’s nothing in the photos is inappropriate for children. “Not only are they not explicitly sexual, but they don’t even display full frontal nudity (the genitalia are covered),” she wrote. “School groups can see much more explicit nudity in a regular art museum.” SFGN reached out to Tom Tabor for comment on the letter from NCAC, but he hasn’t responded as of press time.

Men In Living Rooms #680

Men In Living Rooms #983

the letters While a picture may be worth a thousand words, four pictures are worth 1,128 words, in the form of two letters. Below are Stonewall National Museum and Archives’ Board Chair Tom Tabor’s official statement regarding the exhibition and the letter he received from Svetlana Mintcheva of the National Coalition Against Censorship.

From Tom Tabor Stonewall National Museum & Archives Today Like many private museums and libraries across America, Stonewall has had to create new programs and activities to earn financial support to survive. In response to the demand in classrooms for a greater understanding and tolerance on LGBT issues for all students to help stem the tide of bullying, homelessness, and teen suicide, Stonewall has joined with school districts in partnership to make available LGBT history education. Many national gay organizations including GLSEN, Human Rights Campaign, Victory Fund, Equality Florida, Lambda Legal and others along with the American Federation of Teachers and the National Education Association advocate

Men In Living Rooms #882

for this education effort. Stonewall National Museum & Archives, as the largest gay and lesbian museum in America, can serve as a major resource to develop LGBT education materials. In creating new programs and activities, the limited space in the Stonewall Museum serves multipurposes; as a library, museum, archives, business office, meeting space, theatre, and for exhibits and receptions. Plans to expand Stonewall’s space to include a “gallery” site and retail store in Wilton Manors and possibly a library branch location within Equality Park are in preliminary discussion stages. The possibility to expand education services is being explored across the country. Artist Jeff Larson’s exhibit produced by ArtsUnited opened Wednesday evening for one night. Given the various multi-uses by different groups in the limited space at Stonewall, it was determined by the Chair, Tom Tabor, to cancel the remaining period of the exhibit to October. With our current new outreach in working with schools in response to the demand for LGBT history education, Stonewall did not want to

limit this opportunity by an overreach now that schools have been in. The museum, library and archives have thousands of wonderful, provocative and explicit pieces and Stonewall is proud to share and exhibit them. The issue is how best to do so, and also best work to contribute to student LGBT education. Actually, very little daily traffic comes into Stonewall to see any exhibit other than during specially promoted receptions. Rather, the great majority of traffic to Stonewall is for library services and business purposes each day. This has been a transition for Stonewall in recognition of all its responsibilities and opportunities ahead and Stonewall looks forward to continuing to serve the entire community well.

From NCAC

Dear Mr. Tabor, As a group uniting over 50 organizations dedicated to promoting the First Amendment right to free speech, the National Coalition Against Censorship is deeply concerned about the cancellation of Jeff Larson’s Men In Living Rooms exhibition at the National Stonewall Museum and Archives. We have been joined in our concern by a number of organizaMen In Living Rooms #942 tions and individuals working in the sphere of art and GLBT rights, including Visual AIDA an the Leslie Lohman Museum of Gay and Lesbian Art. We strongly urge you to reverse your decision and return the photographs to display for the scheduled duration of the show as well

The kinky exhibit — corrected In SFGN’s Sept. 19 issue, coverage of the censored exhibition, five photos were printed, three of which were not part of the exhibit. In fact, the exhibit totaled four photos. The large photo was not printed last week, the two small photos to the right were. The photo in the copy served as our cover last week. These four photos make up the exhibit, according to artist Jeff Larson. We regret the error.

September 26, 2012 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

as to develop a clear exhibitions policy with specific criteria as to what can be shown at the Museum. Our understanding is that Men In Living Rooms was pre-approved by the Board of the Museum, put on display as scheduled in early September and, subsequently, taken down in response to complaints, some of which were voiced by Broward Stonewall Education Project Committee members. The exhibition was, hence, only seen for the duration of the opening reception on September 11th. In cancelling a scheduled – and pre-approved – show because some people may have found it inappropriate for school groups coming into the Museum, you open the door to expectations that programming at the Museum will be modified to suit the arbitrary judgment of individuals who subjectively consider some content inappropriate for children. While we laud your initiative to work with the Broward County School District and to educate students about LGBT history, that project should not lead to compromising the mission of the Stonewall Museum and Archives by forcing the institution to steer clear of aspects of the LGBT community that some parents or teachers feel uncomfortable about. Such a policy would very likely lead to wholesale self-censorship on the part of your institution. As you are probably aware, LGBT material is regularly censored in school systems because of claims that it is inappropriate: just in the last few months, complaints over the use of Todd Parr’s The Family Book and other materials endorsed by GLSEN in an anti-bullying curriculum sparked censorship in the school district of Erie, Illinois. As it stands, all GLSEN materials and books on GLSEN reading lists are banned in Erie and teachers must direct any and all questions about non-traditional families or sexuality to a child’s parents. North of Salt Lake City, Utah, a parent’s complaint led to a book about anon-traditional family, Patricia Polacco’s In Our Mothers’ House, to be put under restricted access in school libraries. The book, which had been purchased specifically because the schools have students with two moms or two dads, can now only be accessed with a parental permission slip – if anyone knows it is even there. There have been incidents even at the college level: a few years ago, for instance, staged photographs of Ken and G. I. Joe dolls holding hands were removed from the photo gallery of Shelton State Community College (Tuscaloosa, AL) at the direction of the President who claimed that the images “created a negative impression” and were “offensive” and “controversial” because they might be interpreted as endorsing homosexuality. While none of the examples above are as provocative as Jeff Larson’s photographs, they demonstrate how broadly some groups

in our society understand what is “inappropriate” for children and how ready they are to call for censorship of even the most “innocent” material. If the Stonewall Museum begins to cave to such complaints, where will it be able to draw the line? Jeff Larson’s photographs are unquestionably legal as to minors: not only are they not explicitly sexual, but they don’t even display full frontal nudity (the genitalia are covered). School groups can see much more explicit nudity in a regular art museum. The cancellation of Jeff Larson’s show thus raises the question whether, in deference to the often conservative, and even homophobic, sensitivities of the culture at large, the Stonewall National Museum & Archives will head down the slippery slope of censoring material that could be considered controversial by some and thus compromise its mission as “an epicenter of enlightenment for [theLGBT] community” which plays “a significant role in building bridges of cultural understanding in theLGBT community and beyond.” How is cultural understanding to be built, if the Museum caters to thevery prejudices it seeks to oppose?

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September 26, 2012 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

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LGBT YOUTH

LGBT Teens Get Half a Million Dollars Donation Comes From Queer Youth Fund By Sergio Candido

he Queer Youth Fund, a branch of the Liberty Hill Foundation, has recently announced it’ll donate $500,000 to be distributed among five LGBT community organizations nationwide. Founded in 2002, The Queer Youth Fund gives multi-year grants to small youth-led organizations that promote equality and justice for LGBT community members under 24. So far, $4.4 million has been awarded to groups in 21 states and Canada since the foundation was started. “Each year, I am awed by the extraordinary courage and abilities of the young people in organizations awarded Queer Youth Fund grants,” said Weston Milliken, Queer Youth Fund co-founder. “These young leaders are helping to advance full equality for all Americans and it is an honor to support their passion for social justice work.”

Each grant paid out over

is $100,000 and three to five years.

Here’s a list of the 2012 grantees: Organization: Asian & Pacific Islander Wellness Center Website: www.apiwellness.org Grant Amount: $100,000 Asian & Pacific Islander Wellness Center received $100,000 over three years to coordinate program activities for gender variant, transgender and questioning youth, aged 13-24 for the purpose of empowerment, community and self-esteem building, leadership development and inclusiveness. Youth leaders will implement a mentorship program and leadership academy for this at-risk population and promote social justice involvement

in their community of San Francisco. Organization: Idaho Human Rights Education Center Website: www.idaho-humanrights.org Grant Amount: $100,000 Idaho Human Rights Education Center received $100,000 over four years to ensure school safety for Idaho’s GLBTQQ youth and their allies through a variety of statewide program delivery and community organizing strategies including youth leadership development, networking of high school gaystraight alliances and human rights clubs, regional youth-led conferences to eliminate anti-GLBTQQ bias in schools, teacher training and curriculum development, community education, creation and release of an Idaho School Climate Report and use of the latter to influence policy makers.

Youth Program which provides and cultivates safe and empowering spaces for GLBTQQ youth. It will expand its after-school dropin program and support the development of youth leadership programs including an Orange County GSA Hub and recruiting and training additional Rainbow Youth Advocates to engage in social justice work. Organization: Life Foundation, Inc. Website: http://gsahawaii.org/ Grant Amount: $100,000 Life Foundation, Inc. received $100,000 over three years to hire a part-time coordinator for its GSA Hawaii project, which provides support, advocacy and community for GLBTQQ youth in Hawaii. The coordinator will be responsible for organizing the activities, programs and projects of GSA Hawaii and ensuring goals are met and the program is properly evaluated. Organization: Out Now, Inc. Website: http://outnowyouth.org Grant Amount: $100,000

Organization: The Gay & Lesbian Community Services Center of Orange County Website: http://www.thecenteroc.org Grant Amount: $100,000 The Gay & Lesbian Community Services Center of Orange County received $100,000 over three years to enhance its Rainbow

Out Now, Inc. received $100,000 over three years to support youth leadership in the QuEST project, including developing youth organizers’ leadership and capacity, centering youth voices and work in Springfield Pride and community organizing efforts to stop individual and systemic homophobia and racism in the community and building grassroots power among GLBTQQ youth in Springfield.

September 26, 2012 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

ENJOY

THE BENEFITS of Bio-Identical Hormone Therapy ’

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September 26, 2012 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

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September 26, 2012 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

A&E

Popcorn & Rainbows Gay and lesbian film festival back in town

By J.W. Arnold

ore than 40 feature films, shorts and documentaries will be screened at the Classic Gateway theatre when the Fort Lauderdale Gay and Lesbian Film Festival (FLGLFF) returns for its fourth year, Oct. 4 to 7. “Our mission is to bring the entire LGBT community together through film, so it’s crucial that we present movies that are as diverse in appeal as the community itself,” said Franc Castro, FLGLFF’s executive director. “Our lineup this year represents comedies, dramas and documentaries … films that will entertain as well as stimulate conversation.” With a history that spans 60 years, the Gateway is the perfect home for the festival, said organizers. Already popular with LGBT and art film audiences, the Gateway brings a vintage flavor to the festival and, for the first time, audiences will be able to purchase cocktails to enjoy during all screenings. The festival opens on Thursday, Oct. 4 with Tom Fitzgerald’s Cloudburst, starring Olympia Dukakis and Brenda Fricker as an older lesbian couple who must respond when Fricker’s character is committed to a nursing home by a meddling granddaughter. The couple then flees on a road trip to Canada a la “Thelma and Louise” to be married and have their 31-year relationship

legally recognized. In addition to movie screenings, the festival includes several special events, including an exclusive VIP soiree and jazz brunch featuring transgender bassist Jennifer Leitham. The internationallyacclaimed musician, who has performed with Mel Torme and Doc Severinson, is the subject of a documentary by Andrea Meyerson, I Stand Corrected, scheduled to be screened on Oct. 7 at 3 p.m. The closing night film, Bear City 2: the Proposal, will be followed by a pool party on Sunday, Oct. 7, produced by Bear Nation and hosted by Tony Lima at the Royal Palms Resort and Spa on Fort Lauderdale Beach. A full schedule is available and individual tickets are already on sale for $7-10, depending on show times, at FLGLFF.com or by calling 800-927-0939. Discounts are available for festival members.

Reel Bites Jobriath A.D. Friday, Oct. 5, 5 p.m.

It’s not unusual for people to reinvent themselves, especially for young LGBT people coming out of the closet and expressing their true feelings for the first

September 26, 2012 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

time. Bruce Wayne Campbell, a young gay performer from Philadelphia, reinvented himself many times, first as a charismatic cast member in the Broadway musical, Hair, and later as “Jobriath,” the first openly gay singer to be signed to a major record label. Jobriath was going to be the gay American David Bowie, an unapologetic “True Fairy” of glam rock in the ‘70s, his promoters believed. Unfortunately, critics and audiences rejected his flamboyant style, stopping what could have been a major turning point for gay culture in the mainstream music industry. Director Kieran Turner’s fascinating film traces Jobriath’s journey from childhood with a wealth of archival footage and dozens of interviews with family and friends who knew him best. The talented musician’s star finally dimmed in 1983 when he died of AIDS in the Chelsea Hotel in Manhattan, practically forgotten. Thanks to Turner, he will be remembered as a pioneer who paved the way for contemporary artists from Freddie Mercury to Adam Lambert.

The Men Next Door Friday, Oct. 5, 8 p.m.

What happens when a handsome, 40-year-old gay man realizes the two men he’s casually dating are father and son? That’s the premise for Rob Williams’ fast-

paced comedy, The Men Next Door. Were it not for some totally gratuitous full-frontal nudity, the silly story could probably find a home on broadcast television now that viewers have been introduced to Modern Family and The New Normal. Eric Dean stars as Doug, a Pilates studio owner who must choose between 50-year-old Jacob (a charming Michael Nicklin) and 30-yearold son Colton (an equally hunky Benjamin Lutz). There are plenty of close calls until father and son finally confront Doug and demand he make a choice. Throw in a “Jack” and “Karen” (Mark Cirillo and Heidi Rhodes) and all the sitcom requisites are in place. Williams’ dialogue is witty and carefully avoids the usual clichés, (Hear that, Ryan Murphy?) and the acting is consistent all around.

The Invisible Men Saturday, Oct. 6, 4:30 p.m.

Life in the Palestinian territories is challenging enough for young Arab men, but for three gay Muslims, each day is an exercise in survival as they must conceal their sexuality and avoid the disdain and physical abuse of “shamed” family members. Yariv Mozer’s disturbing film follows the lives of three men. The first is Louie, whose face was maimed with a knife by his father Continued on pg. 34

September 26, 2012 â&#x20AC;˘ SouthFloridaGayNews.com

MORE WEBites Students Newspaper in Kentucky Wins LGBT Award

t is no new news that Kentucky isn’t one of the most progressive states when it comes to LGBT rights and tolerance, but one group of journalism students went against the current and for that, they’ve been honored by the Student Press Law Center. When the students at duPont Manual High School in Louisville, Ky. were censored for writing about gay issues, they decided to start their own “underground” student newspaper. The students formed “The Red Pen” and raised money to publish the newspaper. They were recently awarded the Courage in Student Journalism Award by the Student Press Law Center for sticking to their convictions instead of giving in to administrative pressure. “The Red Pen is simply one of the highest quality ‘underground’ publications you will ever see,” Frank LoMonte, the executive director of the SPLC, said. “Through their determination, these students conclusively proved three things. First, they proved that you can give a student audience uncensored news about topical issues without the sky falling. Second, they proved that censorship always fails, because it’s impossible in the 21st century to keep information under wraps. And third, they proved that students are often more mature and blessed with

Continued from page 3

better judgment than the people in charge of their schools.” James Yoakley, a Tennessee teacher and former newspaper adviser at Lenoir City High School, was also honored for printing an op-ed by a gay students telling his experience coming out.

October 13-14, 2012

Gays Smoke More Than General Population

new report by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention shows the LGBT community smokes more than the U.S. general population. According to data from the 2009-2010 National Adult Tobacco Survey published in the American Journal of Public Health 32.8 percent of LGBT people nationally smoke cigarettes, compared to 19.5 percent for the general population. “These data provide the first national benchmark of adult LGBT tobacco use and we applaud the Office of Smoking and Health at CDC for their leadership in LGBT integration and data collection,” comments Dr. Scout, director of The Network for LGBT Health Equity. “Unfortunately, these findings confirm the bad news that LGBT people smoke cigarettes at rates 68 percent higher than the general population and that our overall tobacco use is 50 percent higher.” Scout added: “It’s clearer than ever that tobacco use is one of the largest single health burdens on the LGBT community.”

September 26, 2012 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

Nova Southeastern University Arena Ft. Lauderdale, FL

The Ultimate All-Chocolate Shopping, Interactive and Educational Event Featuring the Region’s Best Chocolate & Confection Companies

• • • • • •

Cocoa Couture Fashion Show Demonstrations by Award Winning Chefs Chocolate World Record Challenge Ice Cream Eating and Cookie Stacking Contests Chocolate Game Show Stage Live Professional Chef Chocolate Competitions

For Tickets, Class Registration & Schedule of Events www.FestivalofChocolate.com

September 26, 2012 â&#x20AC;˘ SouthFloridaGayNews.com

Views of the News

Gold Coast Derby Girls Defeat Texas Hell Marys Story and Photos By Dani Justice

ell has no fury like the Gold Coast Derby Grrls bouncing back from a losing streak. After some pretty bad losses at the FrankyPanky in Tampa, they put on quite a show for their audience back at home. The bout took place Sept. 17 at the War Memorial Auditorium in Fort Lauderdale, and if you purchased special “Suicide Seating” tickets (18+ only) you got to see what a fight it really was. They took on the Texas Hell Marys, an originating team for modern flat track derby. The game was neck and neck throughout, with Tackle Me Elmo bringing it home as one of the second half’s pointracking lead jammers. Baller Shot Caller, another one of the Grrls, was awarded MVP Blocker. The buzzer ended the madness, with our local Gold Coast Derby Grrls winning with a thirty point lead.

September 26, 2012 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

the team sets up their game plan

derby girls pose after a long awaited victory

pre-game pep boost

A&E

Continued from pg. 29

and who has been hiding in Tel-Aviv for eight years. Then there’s Abdu, who was exposed as gay, accused of espionage and tortured by Palestinian security forces in Ramallah. Finally there’s Faris, who escaped to the West Bank after his family tried to kill him. Each is forced to exist in the shadows, secretly longing to return to their families and culture, but knowing the only hope for life—and love—lies with asylum in some faraway land. Mozer exposes a vibrant gay life in Tel Aviv’s Arab neighborhood and also proves that the shared experiences of gay men can transcend the Palestinian-Israeli hostilities that dominate the headlines in the Middle East.

Naked as We Came Saturday, Oct. 6, 9:30 p.m.

Richard LeMay’s film, Naked As We Came, explores love and loss as siblings Elliott (Ryan Vigilant) and Laura (Karmine Alers) are called to the family’s country estate after receiving a mysterious phone call in the middle of the night. They arrive to find their mother, Lilly (S. Lue McWilliams), losing her battle with cancer and a mysterious, handsome stranger living with her. Quickly, Elliott and Ted (Benjamin Weaver) complicate the tenuous situation after a one-night romp between the sheets. And the specter of long-gone dad, a successful businessman and popular politician looms over all. In her waning days, Lilly hopes to inspire her children to leave their messy family history behind and finally pursue their own dreams. While these truths come through loud and clear throughout the beautifully filmed movie, it’s McWilliams who steals the show, caricaturized into a modern day Gloria Swanson, resplendent in her turban and fur stole.

BearCity2: The Proposal Sunday, Oct. 7, 8 p.m.

There’s something for everyone at the FLGLFF, even the bear crowd! It would be easy to call Douglas Langway’s sequel a bunch of fluff, but in deference to our hairy friends, let’s just say its fuzzy. Described as a “hirsuite Sex and the City,” the film follows a group of friends to Provincetown for a gay wedding, conveniently coinciding with Bear Week. Roger (Gerald McCullouch) and his cub Tyler (Joe Conti) find themselves questioning love and commitment when flung into the tantalizing mix of muscle bears and ex-boyfriends. Meanwhile, their friends find their own relationships challenged with issues of jealousy and a silly subplot involving the making of a documentary about the party. Kathy Najimy makes a heartwarming appearance as the mother of one of the pals and Richard Riehle, as the father of the groom, learns a whole new meaning to the word, “Daddy!” Also, keep your eyes peeled for some well-timed walkons by Lt. Dan Choi, celebrity photographer Mike Ruiz and Varla Jean Merman.

If You Go What: Fort Lauderdale Gay & Lesbian Film Fest When: October 4 through 7 Where: Gateway Theatre,1820 East Sunrise Blvd. Fort Lauderdale, 33304 How Much:Varies ($7 and up) More Info: www.flglff.com Special Events: Opening night after party Thurs. Oct. 4. Open at 10 p.m. Live performances by Beach Day and Chick Habit. At Green Room, 109 SW 2nd Ave. in Fort Lauderadale.

September 26, 2012 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

Red Party Sees Green

Photo By: JR Davis

NIGHTLIFE

Fort Lauderdale Fundraiser Big Hit

By Ryan Dixon Chic Optique sponsored a fashion show that was followed by a swimwear auction. All funds raised from the Fort Lauderdale event will go to support Team Live Free Be Strong in their fundraising efforts for The SMART Ride 9. The team has already raised over $12,000. The SMART Ride, taking place November 16-17, is a two day-165 mile bike ride from Miami to Key West. For the past eight years, The SMART Ride has raised over $3.3 million for HIV and AIDS charities all over the State of Florida. To find out how you can help, please visit www.smartride.org.

Joe Posa as Joan Rivers (Left) with Dennis Dean from Live Free Be Strong

Photos Courtesy of Key West Business Guild

Sunday, Sept. 23, was billed as a “Sunday Funday like no other” as the Royal Palms played host to Red Party. Andy Lauer and Live Free Be Strong, an organization that focuses on community issues like bullying and teen suicide, presented the event. For their $20 door cover, party supporters were treated to an hour long open bar sponsored by Budweiser and Bacardi. Joe Posa as Joan Rivers (that’s his name) hosted the Red Carpet, and DJ Maximus 300 from Miami and Atlanta’s DJ Martin Fry kept the crowd dancing. Miami resident and Billboard recording artist Cee Vox was also on hand to entertain. Ruff Riders, Pride Factory and

September 26, 2012 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

A&E

Gender F*cked

Play challenges gender stereotypes with a song and dance

n just two seasons, Thinking Cap Theatre has gained a reputation in the region as a scrappy little company that’s not afraid to tackle controversial, even downright risky plays like Sarah Kane’s Cleansed. And Artistic Director Nicole Stodard isn’t changing a thing as the company opens its third season at Fort Lauderdale’s Empire Stage next week with The All-American Genderf*ck Cabaret. Stodard admitted the title can be “a little intimidating or maybe even exciting,” with the term “genderf*ck” going back to at least 1979, when an article by Christopher Lonc entitled “Genderf*ck and Its Delights” appeared in the magazine Gay Sunshine. She explained, “In recent decades the term has gained credibility through gender studies in academia. It’s a legitimate term for people who don’t fit cleanly into the pink and blue boxes that society has created.” But audiences will find the play, written by Mariah MacCarthy, to be a very fun

and funny piece of theater, Stodard says. “The play explores and explodes stereotypes in a way that is mostly disarming,” she explained, noting part of the company’s mission statement includes addressing issues related to gender and identity. With a cast of nine actors, the show is her largest production to date and includes several large ensemble dance numbers that proved challenging in the intimate Empire Stage space Thinking Cap has shared with several other small companies. “The nice thing about working in a space on an ongoing basis — especially a small space — is that it makes some of the decisions for you. Our choreographers had to make things work,” said Stodard. Chaz Collins drew on the cabaret theme for her set design, even though the show is not a cabaret in the original sense. Stodard also encourages audiences to look for a breakout performance by Noah Levine as Taylor, the “MC” of the show. Levine’s character is present throughout

most of the play, and while he is incredibly talented, she promises “you won’t miss him … for reasons other than just his talent.” Dressed in colorful, androgynous costumes, he serves as the linchpin for MacCarthy’s exercise in “genderf*cking” the audience. Stodard described his character as “a young David Bowie meets Shane from The L Word.” Above all, Stodard praised MacCarthy’s play as a thought-provoking work that is “not so high brow that people can’t connect. Art cannot exist in a vacuum. It’s entertaining and smart and meaningful and so now in 2012.”

Photo By: Nicole Stodard

By J.W. Arnold

If You Go TheAll-American Genderf*ck Cabaret When: Sept.27 – Oct. 13, nights vary, 8 p.m. Where: Thinking Cap Theatre at Empire Stage 1140 N. Flagler Dr., Fort Lauderdale How much: Tickets $25 at ThinkingCapTheatre.com or call 954-678-149

Left to Right, Gwen (Andrea Bovino) and Taylor (Noah Levine)

September 26, 2012 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

SPOTLIGHT: The Arts By Brian Swinford

By J.W. Arnold Photo By: Colony Hotel

Have an event you want to list? If so send me an email at Calendar@sfgn.com.

* Denotes new listing

Palm Beach County Romeo and Juliet

Palm Beach State College¹s theatre department will be presenting Romeo and Juliet on October 17-20 times varies. Tickets are $12 for general and $5 for students with ID. This play will take place at Duncan Theatre, which is located at Palm Beach State College. Visit Palmbeachstate.edu/theatre/ duncan-theatre

Jake Shimabukuro

Renowned for lightning-fast fingers and revolutionary playing techniques, this ukulele sensation’s concerts – featuring an array of genres including jazz, blues, funk, classical, bluegrass, folk, flamenco and rock – are a high-energy, jaw-dropping musical treat not to be missed. Jake Shimabukuro will be at the Alexander W. Dreyfoos, Jr. Concert Hall at the Kravis Center on Nov. 2 at 8 p.m. Tickets start at $15. Visit Kravis.org

Miami-Dade *ArcAttack

Creators of the original musical tesla coils, ArcAttack takes the stage on Sunday, Oct. 7 at Miramar Culture Center from 1 and 4 p.m. as part of the Family Theater Series presented by WastePro. This high-energy concert mixes science and the arts to create an electrifying performance. As seen on the popular TV show America’s Got Talent, ArcAttack’s six members use high tech wizardry, Tesla coils and robotic drums to produce rock, electronica, indie and punk music. Individual tickets are $15 with subscriptions offering savings of up to 15 percent. Visit Miramarculturalcenter.org

*Otherwise Known as Sheila the Great

Judy Blume’s best-selling book Otherwise Known as Sheila the Great from the Fudge series of books comes to life on Saturday, Oct. 13 at 11:30 a.m. and 1 p.m. as part of the Family Theater Series presented by WastePro. Sheila Tubman learns how to face her fear of dogs, swimming, spiders and more in this poignant coming-of-age musical. Individual tickets are $15 with subscriptions offering savings of up to 15 percent. Visit Miramarculturalcenter.org

*An Encounter with Simone Weil

The life of the French philosopher and political activist Simone Weil brings to light profound questions of moral responsibility in the film An Encounter with Simone Weil on Thursday, October 11 at 7:30 p.m., which will be screened as part of the Southern Circuit Independent Film Series. From the battlefields of the Spanish Civil War to anti-war protests in Washington D.C., from intimate exchanges between the filmmaker and her older brother, to captivating interviews with people who knew Weil, the film takes viewers on an unforgettable journey into the heart of what it means to be a compassionate human being. Tickets are $15. Visit Miramarculturalcenter.org

Rock of Ages

Rock of Ages, an arena-rock love story told through the mind blowing, face-melting hits of Journey, Night Ranger, Styx, Reo Speedwagon, Pat Benetar, Twisted Sister, Poison, Asia, and Whitesnakeand. Don’t miss this awesomely good time about dreaming big, playing loud and partying on! Oct. 9-14 at the Ziff Ballet Opera House at the Adrienne Arsht Center. Visit Arshtcenter.org

Idle Warship: Talib Kweli & Res

Talib Kweli’s buzzworthy duo act Idle Warship, with singer/ songwriter RES, will make its anticipated Florida debut at the Center’s Knight Concert Hall on Oct. 19. In 2009, the famed rapper joined longtime collaborator RES to form Idle Warship. The hip-hop/electro group released their first official album, Habits of the Heart, in November 2011. Visit Arshtcenter.org

Lenine For his Arsht Center debut on Oct. 26, Lenine will perform hits from his highly-acclaimed career, including award-winning favorites “Ninguém Faz Idéia” and “Martelo Bigorna,” as well as new songs from his tenth album, Chão (Ground in English), produced by Bruno Giorgi, JR.Tostoi and LENINE himself. Chão consists of ten songs marked by intriguing, unconventional sounds like a canary’s chirp, a kettle’s whistle, a child’s heartbeat, waterfalls and a hypnotic digital pingpong noise courtesy of a Facebook chat. Visit Arshtcenter.org

Light/The Project

Holocaust

Humanity

Through Nov. 4, at the Arsht Center is convening community organizations, in partnership with the Anti-Defamation League, in a county-wide calendar of performances, activities, education programs and public forums. This program will be a three-month, county-wide human rights collaboration that will focus attention on the work that is being done in Miami-Dade County toward the protection of human rights against bigotry and hate. Visit ArshtCenter.org

Broadway in Miami 2012-13

This season Ziff Ballet Opera House on Oct. 9 to May 12 will hold the Broadway In Miami spectacle. Experience the return of the world’s greatest musical spectacle - Les Misérables - in its lavish new 25th anniversary production, along with the Miami premieres of Broadway’s biggest fun-filled hits - including the high-stepping Mary Poppins, the outlandishly colorful Priscilla, Queen of the Desert, the awesomely cool Rock of Ages, and - the 2010 Tony Award Winner for Best Musical Memphis, a triumph of explosive dancing and powerhouse songs. Visit Arshtcenter.org

Community Calendar Broward County *Pride Center Hosts Senior Health Expo

The Pride Center’s third annual LGBT Senior Health Expo will be held from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 20 at The Pride Center, 2040 North Dixie Highway in Wilton Manors. The Expo will again provide Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender (LGBT) seniors with a unique, comprehensive overview of available healthcare services. Over fifty LGBT-friendly medical, professional, support and financial providers in the fields of healthcare, aging and geriatrics will showcase their services and products through this popular event. Contact: Kristofer Fegenbush, Pride Center Deputy Director at 954-4639005 ext. 111

*Fort Lauderdale Zombie Walk

Fort Lauderdale Zombie Walk is an annual event that encourages the community to dress up like zombies and march around downtown Ft Lauderdale This event will take place Oct. 12. Doors at Green Room open at 6 p.m. for an all ages crowd. Make-up will be provided by Body Art By Keegan and an army of make-up artists inside Green Room from 6 to 10 p.m. (costs TBA). Entertainment throughout, including carnival-style games, DJs, live entertainment, and an art show. Visit Zombieftl.com

*Fort Lauderdale Gay and Lesbian Film Festival

For the fourth annual Ft. Lauderdale Gay and Lesbian Film Festival (FLGLFF), Oct. 4 through 7, the schedule of films showcased will expand to nearly 40 films, including a mix of men’s and women’s interest screenings, short films and documentaries, including a special documentary, “I Stand Corrected,” on transgender jazz bassist Jennifer Leitham, who has performed with Mel Torme and Doc Severinsen among others. Visit Flglff.com or call 305-751-6305

September 26, 2012 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

Avery Summers

Life is a Cabaret

ucky Palm Beach County residents have their pick when it comes to top notch cabaret. At the popular ArtsGarage in Delray Beach, Alice Day takes the stage this Saturday, Sept. 29 for one night only. Affectionately called Florida’s “First Lady of Jazz,” Day’s performances are well known for her candid presentations of lesserknown and unusual tunes, all delivered with emotional, heartfelt interpretations. Manalapan Theatre Launches Weekend Cabaret Shows. Tickets are $20-30 in advance at www. ArtsGarage.org or $25-35 at the door. The Plaza Theatre in Manalapan has added three weekends of cabaret performances to its fall calendar. Located in the intimate shopping center space formerly occupied by Florida Stage, Plaza Theatre has been creating buzz with a series of musical reviews that have had its audiences’ toes tapping. On Sept. 29 and 30, Julie Kleiner, Bryan Ortega, Leah Sessa and Barry Tarrallo will sing a program of familiar Broadway showtunes. All four are new to the Plaza. The following weekend, Oct. 6 to 7, Missy McArdle will perform a tribute to the ultimate diva of stage and screen, Ethel Merman. Finally,

Bruno Bernard/World Erotic Art Museum

Theater

Mia Matthews will be featured on Oct. 13 to 14 in “Diamonds are a Girl’s Best Friend,” a collection of movie tunes made famous by Marilyn Monroe, Rita Hayworth, Mae West, Carmen Miranda and Madonna. Saturday shows begin at 7:30 p.m. with Sunday matinees beginning at 2 p.m.Tickets are $30 for individual shows or $75 for the series. Plaza Theatre is located at Plaza del Mar, 262 S. Ocean Blvd. Bruno Bernard, the man who “discovered” tickets will or more goshow to www. Marilyn For Monroe, haveinformation, his work on at ThePlazaTheatre.net. the World Erotic Art Museum from Sept. 12 to Nov. 30.

And, of course, we can’t talk cabaret without mentioning the world famous Royal Room at Palm Beach’s Colony Hotel. This week, the hotel announced local favorite Avery Sommers will be returning this fall for her sixth engagement since debuting four years ago. A veteran of Broadway, Sommers is still remembered for her roles in Ain’t Misbehavin’, Showboat and South Pacific. She will launch the fall cabaret season over Thanksgiving weekend, with additional performances on Nov. 30, Dec. 1 and Dec. 7-8. For more information or reservations, go to www.TheColonyPalmBeach.com or call 561-6598100.

By Brian Swinford

Have an event you want to list? If so send me an email at Calendar@sfgn.com.

*The South Florida Gay Flag Football League

Boys and Girls of South Florida, are you ready to play some football? The South Florida Gay Flag Football League (SFGFFL) http://sfgffa.com/FallSeason is right around the corner! South Florida’s most exciting and social sports league will hold mandatory new player clinics for all new and returning players on Saturday, Sept. 29 at Noon to 2 p.m. The SFGFL welcomes players from every skill level. As an inclusive league, we welcome all players regardless of their gender or sexual orientation. Visit Facebook.com/groups/286707928027779

*Fort Lauderdale Garden Club Presents “Gardening in South Florida”

Learn about gardens and gardening in South Florida. Garden club members will be available to answer your questions. On Oct. 5 at the Garden Center at Hugh Taylor Birch State Park with Coffee at 9:30 a.m. and the program starts at 10 a.m. Contact Donna Parker at 954-464-3928.

Adventure Bears - Fall 2012 Caribbean Cruise

Adventure Bears offers a truly unique travel experience where you can relax/recharge from a stressful job or be social with other like-minded traveler -- all while being pampered on one of the finest cruise lines in the world, Princess Cruise newest ship, the Ruby Princess. Call or email Paul B. Stalbaum at paul@crusiedesignstravel.com or 954-566-3377

Breast Cancer “PINKOUT”

Join Gallery 101 as they host another Great Fashion and Art Exibit for a Wonderful Cause. Gallery 101 has had a Breast Cancer event for the past 2 years. One which included a Full Runway Fashion Show with Breast Cancer Heros. They will again revisit this Tradition as we Present “PINKOUT.” Live Singing Proformances By Florida Opera Tenor Rolando Polo and special guest. Sept. 29, 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. Visit Rapunzelproject.org/OurStory.aspx

Broward House presents Wanda Sykes, A World AIDS Day Benefit Concert

Sykes will make her only South Florida appearance in 201213 in this one-night only engagement during World AID Days weekend on Dec 2, at 8 p.m. at the Broward Center Au Rene Theater as a benefit for Broward House, Broward County’s oldest and largest HIV/AIDS community service organization. Wanda Sykes is considered “one of the funniest stand up comics” by her peers and ranks among Entertainment Weekly’s 25 Funniest People in America. Visit BrowardCenter.org

Pozitive Attitudes Topic driven Peer lead support group for gay and bisexual men who are infected or affected by HIV/AIDS. Meets every Wednesday 7-9 p.m. at the Pride Center 204 N.Dixie Hwy Room 204. Refreshments, no charge, open meeting. PAHereandNow@aol.com www.PozitiveAttitudes.com

Queer Youth Friday Nights

LGBTQ and allied youth group for people13-21. This Is a drop in group anytime from 6 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. This youth group will be SunServe building on 1480 SW 9th Ave on the second floor. A Safe Space to be yourself! Queer Themed Movie showing at 7 p.m. on Friday nights. This group is a safe hangout to meet new friends, free Wi-Fi to bring your laptop or your iPad, plus board games that you can bring or play the ones that they provide at the group. Visit Sunserve.org/youth/index.htm

GLBX Business Advantage Referral Group

GLBX Business Advantage Referral Group will be held at the chamber offices on the 1st and 3rd Wednesday of the month from 8 to 9 a.m. The leads group is looking for additional members. If you are interested joining, please contact Ken Stollar at Kenneth.Stolar@sci-us.com to see if your category is open and to attend as a guest. Visit Ftlchamber.com/index. php?src=gendocs&ref=GLBX_home&category=GLBX

Queer Youth Nights

LGBTQ & allied youth 13-21 are welcome any time after 6 p.m. at the SunServe building on Wilton Drive for a great place to meet new friends, play board games and a Queer Themed Movie at 7 p.m. Email Afrosch@sunServe.org

Latinos Salud’s programs

Multiple programs and groups for bi/gay Latino guys. Latinos Salud’s SOMOS program is for guys 18 to 30. All proceeds will benefit Latinos Salud in our efforts to educate on HIV Prevention and testing. Every Thursday night at 7 p.m. join the Core Group, and help plan alternative activities. Also offers Popular Opinion Leader group for guys ages 25 to 44 and a Life Coaching program for guys ages 18 to 44. Come by Monday through Friday 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. for free one-on-one life coaching with certified CRCS coaches. Located at 2330 Wilton Drive. Call 954-533-8681 or visit Latinossalud.org

Man2Man Discussion

Man2Man Discussion Group meets at the Pride Center on Mondays from 7 until 8:30 p.m. Any subject may be discussed. Members regularly reassemble afterwards for ‘repast’ at The Courtyard, PeterPan Diner. Visit Glccsf.org

Meditation After Work

On Mondays from 6-6:30 p.m. there will be Guided meditation w/ western Buddhist teacher Gui Passow. Looking for a way to rest and re-charge before starting your evening? Come in for a free guided meditation to clear your mind at the end of the day. This class is free at Drolma Buddhist Center. Call 954-537-9191 or visit meditationinfortlauderdale.org

Buddhist Meditation Classes

All the happiness there is in the world arises from wishing others to be happy. By abandoning self-centered thoughts and replacing them with the belief that others are important, we will overcome our suffering and find true happiness inside our own hearts. $10/class or $30/series includes vegetarian food after class. Call The Drolma Buddhist Center at 954-537-9191.

Dream Car Classic

Every Sunday of the month from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Pre-1980s classic cars, modern classics and custom cars from 1981-2012 will be showcased. $10 car registration from 8 a.m. to 10 a.m. (Show Car Entrance: 20th Avenue & Tyler Street). People’s Choice Award - 2 Classes; Top Ten Vehicles Award. Call 954214-2457

Living Healthy

Fusion in Wilton Manors will be having a free workshop on healthy choices, and healthy living on Tuesdays from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. This workshop provides interactive learning, practice and mastery techniques for a healthier and more active life, and positive changes for quality of life. Call 954-630-1655

Life Coaching

Latinos Salud’s Life Coaching program is for Latino gay/bi guys ages 18-44. Come by Monday through Friday 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. for free one-on-one life coaching with certified CRCS coaches. Set your goals, and meet action steps to make them come true. 2330 Wilton Drive. Call 954-765-6239. Visit Latinossalud.org

Sex & Love Anonymous

S.L.A.A. believes that sex and love addiction is a progressive illness which cannot be cured but which, like many illnesses, can be arrested. It may take several forms -- including, but not limited to, a compulsive need for sex, extreme dependency on one or many people, or a chronic pre-occupation with romance, intrigue, or fantasy. Meets at The Pride Center at Equality Park in Bldg A, Room 200 Fridays 7 p.m. to 8 p.m. Visit Slaafws.org

Sunday Jazz Brunch

First Sunday of every month. An ideal way to relax and enjoy Fort Lauderdale’s scenic Riverwalk. Live, outdoor concert series bringing the area’s best local jazz artists. Listen to the soulful sounds on four different stages. Well-behaved, leashed pets welcome. Plenty of room for chairs, blankets and picnic baskets.

Young Adult GLBT

A social group open to all LGBT people ages 18-35. Meets Fridays at the Pride Center in Wilton Manors from 7:15-9 p.m. Meeting starts with a discussion on current events followed by introductions and then a group activity. Visit PrideCenterFlorida.org/contact-us

Boardwalk Friday Fest

Come out to Hollywood Beach Theatre East of A1A at Johnson St and the ocean. Admission: Free every Friday of every month. Live jazz, blues, pop and everything in between along Hollywood’s signature 2.5 mile boardwalk. Charming oceanfront cafes and restaurants serve up delicious innovative cuisine while you enjoy the best array of live music and tropical ocean breezes. Visit Hollywoodfl.org or call 954-924-2980

Toastmasters

Most Toastmasters meetings are comprised of about 20 people who meet weekly for an hour or so. Participants practice and learn skills by filling a meeting role, ranging from giving a prepared speech or an impromptu one to serving as timer, evaluator or grammarian. Toastmasters meet at the GLCC/ Pride Center Monday at 7:15 p.m. Call Ted Verdone at 954-5662074 or email: Tedverdone@comcast.net

Tuesday Night Eatin Meeting

Tuesday Night Eatin’ Meeting will be held at The Alternative MC Clubhouse at 4322 NE 5th Ave in Oakland Park. Fun, food, and fellowship. There will be hamburgers, hotdogs, all the fixins, cold drinks, desserts, and snacks. Meeting begins at 8 p.m. and ends at 9 p.m. Visit Alternativemc.com/events/ florida-events

Gay Male Empowerment

Topic discussions include issues and concerns about being a gay man in South Florida. Meets Thursdays at the Pride Center from 7 - 8:30 p.m. Call 954-353-9155

PFLAG

Meets on the 2nd and 4th Tues. of the month at the Sunshine Cathedral at 1480 SW 9th Avenue to support the parents of LGBTQ youth in Broward. No charge. Visit Community.pflag.org/ pflagfortlauderdale

SunServe Therapy Groups

Provided for the LGBT community at SunServe on a regular basis. Call the Intake Coordinator at 954-764-5150 to learn which therapy groups have openings. Groups Include a Gay Men’s HIV+ Long Time Survivors’ Group, a Safe “T” support group for gender variant adults, an Intimate Partner Abuse group and others. Visit SunServe.org

Fusion Wilton Manors - Connections

Gay men’s group discussion. Different subject every week. Dr. David Fawcett, a gay therapist, who has been in private practice in Fort Lauderdale for the last ten years, leads the event. No charge. Starts at 7 p.m. Call 954-630-1655.

Women4Women Support

*Palm Beach Food & Wine Festival

Foodies have a reason to celebrate as a flood of epicurean talent descends upon the area for the Palm Beach Food & Wine Festival 2012. Award-winning chefs and culinary personalities, authors, winemakers, journalists, and mixologists are creating a culinary event of a magnitude never before seen on the illustrious island and beyond. This sixth anniversary year of the Festival includes an expanded lineup, growing from five nights of culinary delights to nearly a dozen events with both day and evening programming, including a star chef golf tournament and trade-only panel discussion. On Dec7-11 at various locations. Visit Pbfoodwinefest.com

*Palm Beaches Marathon & Run Fest

December in Florida and striding through tropics. Now that will impress your friends and family. Palm Beaches Marathon & Run Fest isn’t just a race or a way to keep in shape before the holiday parties and cheer; it’s a vacation onto itself. This event will start and finish on Flagler drive on Nov 20-Dec 2. Visit Runpalmbeaches.com

*Oktoberfest

Next to the Christmas tree, Oktoberfest is the most popular custom Germany (actually Bavaria) has ever exported to the rest of the world. The American German Club of the Palm Beaches proudly hosts its time-honored Oktoberfest on the second and third weekends of October. A yearly celebration of beer and good times held on ten acres of ground, under pavilion and massive tent; making this “Original Oktoberfest” one of the largest in the country. Visit Americangermanclub.org/ oktoberfest.html

Lake Worth Bike Night

The Lake Worth bike night is fun, and it’s for a cause. Join loads of people in downtown Lake Worth every Thursday from 7 p.m.-10 p.m.. The event is free and open to bikers and nonbikers. Visit Lakeworthbikenight.com

Alternative Life Style Show Featured guests contribute to the community. All are welcomed to call in. Many give aways and prizes including a contest for free buffets at Isle Capri Casino in Pompano. You can also listen by adding W4CYRADIO to SKYPE or call in at 561-623-9429. Up coming spotlights on parties of interest and special events.

PFLAG

PFLAG is a monthly support, coming out and rap groups for families of & for Gay, Lesbian, Bi, and Transgender people. Meeting in Palm Beach County is at 6:30 on the third Wednesday of the month. Call or email Carol at 561-716-9464 Pflag@ pobox.com

New Alternatives

Social group with regular outings and social mixers for LGBTQ ages 18 to 30. This meeting will take place at The Gay & Lesbian Community Center of Palm Beach County. Email matthew@ compassglcc.com or Visit Compassglcc.com.

Sober Sisters AA

Support group is dedicated for lesbians who are recovering from alcoholism. Meeting happens every Monday at 7 p.m. at Lambda North Clubhouse. Visit LambdaNorth.net

PBC Gender Support

A safe and loving place to explore all the concerns and topics raised by group members. This open drop-in meeting is held Wednesdays at 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at the New Sun Serve Building at 2312 Wilton Drive in Wilton Manors. Call 954-764-5150

All ages support group dedicated for transgender individuals. This meeting happens the 1st and 3rd Thursday of every month at 7:30 p.m. These meeting will take place at The Gay & Lesbian Community Center of Palm Beach County. Visit Compassglcc.com

A Survivor Support Group is being held on the first and third Wednesday of each month at the 211 Community Center, 250 NE 33rd Street, in Oakland Park. The Florida Initiative for Suicide Prevention (FISP) is sponsoring this free support group and is open to all family members and friends of those who have died by suicide. Call 954-384-0344 to register. Meets from 7-8:30 p.m. Visit Fisponline.org.

Man2Man Discussion

Good Orderly AA

Eating Disorder Support

*Flavor Palm Beach

Survivor Support

Meets Friday evenings from 6 p.m. - 7:30 p.m. At Sun Serve’s Wilton Manors location at 2123 Wilton Drive, second floor. A “drop-in” psycho-educational support group. Free. No registration required. Donations welcome. Call 954-764-5150

Man-2-Man talk is an informal discussion group of gay men, with all age ranges and backgrounds welcomed. Bldg A, Room 206. Visit Glccsf.org/calendar/

Palm Beach County Savor the best of local dining from Sept. 1 to 30 with Flavor Palm Beach as it showcases the culinary delights found throughout The Palm Beaches and Boca Raton. From surf and turf to burgers and fries, Flavor Palm Beach along with local restaurants invites you to enjoy a three-course lunch for $20 and/or dinner for $30 or $35 per person. Visit Flavorpb.com

These meetings now take place at Lambda North at 18 S. J Street, and geared toward recovering alcoholics. Every Tues. and Thurs. at 7 p.m. and on Sat. at 5:30 p.m. These meetings will help recovering alcoholics cope with the stress of everyday life without the use of alcohol. Email tcamie@aol.com

Seniors vs. Crime

Seniors vs. Crime is a free service that provides help to seniors who have been victimized by businesses or service providers and need assistance. This event will take place at Mae Volen Senior Center at 1515 W. Palmetto Park Road. By appointment only so call 561-736-3820 or 561-395-8920.

Yoga On The Waterfront

Lake Pavilion at 101 S. Flagler Drive, West Palm Beach, FL / Yoga On The Waterfront in downtown West Palm Beach on Wednesday Evenings at 5:45 p.m. Residents $40 per 8 week session, Non-Residents $50 per 8 week session, Drop-ins $10 per class. To register, please call 561-804-4902.

September 26, 2012 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

By Brian Swinford

Have an event you want to list? If so send me an email at Calendar@sfgn.com.

YOGA Among the Orchids

It’s time for Yoga Among the Orchids at the American Orchid Society, 16700 AOS Lane, Delray Beach. Relax and replenish the flower inside with an hour of breathing exercises, toning, and yoga poses under a canopy of lush orchids. Classes are Wed. at 9 a.m. Cost is $20 and RSVP is suggested. Call 561404-2011. Visit OrchidWeb.org

Jazz on the Palm

Jazz on the Palm - Downtown West Palm Beach Waterfront - Gather with friends and family to enjoy the diverse vibrant sounds of jazz under the stars every 3rd Friday of month at the new Downtown West Palm Beach waterfront concert series. Free and open to the public. Guests are encouraged to bring blankets and chairs. From 8 p.m. to 10 p.m. Visit Wpbgo. com/2010/06/jazz-on-the-palm

Sunday on the Waterfront

Sunday on the Waterfront is a free concert series, which takes place the third Sunday of most months in the beautiful downtown West Palm Beach waterfront area. Bring blankets, chairs, and coolers or purchase treats at the concert. Free parking in all city lots and at city meters. 4:30 p.m. to 7 p.m. May through October. Visit OnTheWaterFront.com

BrothasSpeak

This group is a black gay men’s discussion group that is held at the Compass in West Palm Beach. Every Wednesday from 7 p.m. to 8 p.m. this group will be directed toward issues for and about black men. Visit Compassglcc.com

Paths

Paths is a social/discussion group held at Compass in Lake Worth. This men’s group takes place every Monday from 7:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. Paths men’s group will be discussing relationships, coming out, safer sex issues and more. Visit Compassglcc.com

Yoga

Yoga with Deborah will change your life. Bring a mat and get ready to stretch the stress away every Tuesday at The GLCC in Palm Beach from 6 to 7 p.m. This yoga experience will uplift and transform your life. $6 Entry Fee. You must bring your own mat. Visit Compassglcc.com

Living Buddhism

On the 2nd Tuesday of every month at 7 p.m. Compass in Lake Worth will be holding a discussion group for overcoming obstacles and obtaining happiness. This group is great for getting internal enlightenment. Release your inner stress, and become free. Visit Compassglcc.com

Miami-Dade *Aqua Affair

The whole community is invited to Aqua Affair at the sultry red room in the Shore Club on Sat Sept. 29 from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. This event is to celebrate our scholarship recipients and to bis on one of the best silent auctions ever. This event will have open bar, light fare and sexy sounds. Sponsored by Grey Goose Cherry Noir and Bacardi. Email robin@aquafoundation. org

*Hispanic Art Expressions Exhibit 2012

Dolphin Mall will showcase the 13th year of the Hispanic Art Expressions Exhibit on Sept. 28 from 8:30 p.m. to 10:30 p.m., which includes the work of 35 local Hispanic artists, representing various countries. The Hispanic Art Expressions Exhibit aims to raise awareness of visual art as a form of Hispanic culture and help Miami-Dade citizens foster a better understanding of each other’s roots and cultures. Visit Shopdolphinmall.com.

Drag Queens at Sea

Join ALandCHUCK.travel and CRUISE on Dec 1, with the largest gathering of Drag Stars ever! Join nearly 40 stars along with Celebrity Hostess Michelle Visage for an incredible 8 day cruise with cocktail parties, drag performances, comedy shows, Q&A panels and so much more. Visit Facebook.com/ events/148246971907863/

ORGULLO Festival

nightlife Broward County 321-Slammer

Mona’s

502 E. Sunrise Boulevard, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33304, (954) 5256662. The eclectic décor and a friendly staff makes. Mona’s a great place to have fun in Fort Lauderdale. Thursday’s College Boy’s Night 8 p.m. Enjoy College Boy’s Choice 2 for 1

Monkey Business

Bathhouse. 321 W Sunrise Blvd, Fort Lauderdale, Florida, 33311. Slammer sex club the best place to cruise for the hottest gay men. Thursday’s is leather night, Friday and Saturday night live DJs. Monday & Tuesday -- $9 entry fee

2740 North Andrews Ave, Wilton Manors, FL 33311. (954) 514-7819. The Monkey Business Bar is a Small Outdoor Bar Among The Shops Just off Marina Blvd. No Frills But Comfortable and a Great Place to Stop and Meet Good People. Happy Hour 8 a.m. to 9 p.m.

Atomic Boom

Naked Grape Wine Bar

2232 Wilton Drive, Wilton Manors, FL 33305, (954) 630-3556 Best Sound & Light Show in Broward County. Mondays “porn bingo” with Desiree Dubois. $3 Margaritas, $1 Draft

Bill’s Filling Station

2039 Wilton Drive, Wilton Manors, FL 33305. (954) 563-5631. A Casual, Hip, Fun Experience and if You Have a Taste for Deliciously Unique Wines, You Need to Make This Your Next Stop! Happy Hour All Night on Thursday

The world-wide Hispanic LGBT community will gather in Miami Beach on October 6th for the Celebrate ORGULLO Festival. The event is the first of its kind in the U.S. and showcases the community during the month of October, Hispanic Heritage Month. Miami Beach is world renowned for their gayfriendly atmosphere that city organizations such as the Miami Beach Visitor and Convention Authority help cultivate through services like the Pink Flamingo Program and the LGBT Welcome Center on Miami Beach. More information on the festival can be found at Unitycoalition.org.

2209 Wilton Drive, Wilton Manors, FL 33305, (954) 567-5978. Large bar/ nightclub, amazing drink specials in Wilton Manors! Wednesday’s after 9 p.m. $10 Miller Lite Beer Bust

Pool-room/game room on one side and a bar/strip club on the other. Mondays $3 Well & Dom, after 9 p.m. $3 U-Call-It Shots

924 North Flagler Drive, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33304, (954) 533-0257. One of The Most Diverse Bars in Fort Lauderdale. $2 Drinks Every Wednesday, Spades Every Thursday

Fiona Apple at The Fillmore

The Club Fort Lauderdale

Ramrod

The Fillmore in Miami Beach will have Fiona Apple performing Fiona Apple is an American singer-songwriter and pianist. Apple garnered international acclaim for her 1996 debut album, Tidal, which was a critical and commercial success. She received a Grammy Award for Best Female Rock Vocal Performance for the single “Criminal” from that album in 1998. Sept. 30. Fillmore in Miami Beach. Visit Fillmoremb.com

Ransom Mondays

Need an excuse to keep partying well after the weekend is over? The Monday-night party at the recently renovated Collins Park lounge. This amazing party will take place at Mokai in Miami Beach. The party, hosted by Mark Lehmkuhl, sort of takes now-defunct Bella Rose’s Black Sunday murder mystery theme but gives it a Patty Hearst twist. Every week, some prominent nightlife fixture gets held for ransom, and the only way it gets returned is if you party your ass off. Only $20 to attend. Visit Mokaimiami.com

Rainbow Circle

Rainbow Circle is a peer-led LGBTQ support & discussion group. Topics covered often include coming out, relationships, bullying, peer pressure, drugs & alcohol, depression and self-esteem. You pick and develop discussion topics and are able to express your thoughts and feelings without fear in a safe and supportive environment. This group will take place every Monday from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the University of Miami, Flipse Building #302. Visit Pridelines.org

Sex Talk

Sex Talk: Peer Health Educators are young LGBTQ adults who learn how to talk to other young adults about sex, sexuality and HIV/STD prevention. You’ll conduct outreach events, record video messages, participate in a series of performances and organize special events with a purpose. This event takes place the second and fourth Thursday every month at Pridelines Headquarters located at 9526 NE 2nd Ave #104 In Miami Shores from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Visit Pridelines.org

AIDS Quilt Panel Workshops

Miami Beach Community Health Center’s “Making Memories” will assist those interested in creating an AIDS Quilt panel as a way to pay tribute to a life lost to AIDS. Workshops are held the fourth Saturday of every month through October. 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. Workshops are free. Visit Miamibeachhealth. org or 305-538-8835 or 1-800-393-1290

Lambda Dade Clubhouse

A meeting place for the Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual & Transgender communities and friends in recovery. Hosts Alcoholics Anonymous (AA), Al-Anon, Crystal Meth Anonymous (CMA), Debtors Anonymous (DA), Narcotics Anonymous (NA), and Sex & Love Addicts Anonymous (SLAA), meetings. (305) 573-9608. 212 NE 24th Street. Miami. Visit Lambdadadeclubhouse.org

September 26, 2012 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

Boardwalk

1721 N. Andrews Ave, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33311. (954) 463-6969. A Cute Little Hangout in Fort Lauderdale.

Bathhouse. 110 NW 5th Ave., Fort Lauderdale, FL, (954) 5253344 Good. Clean. Fun. 1/2 price rooms...Tuesday Nights and 1/2 price Lockers. Thursdays Nights. Always busy.

Clubhouse II

New Moon

2440 Wilton Drive, Wilton Manors, FL 33305, (954) 563-7660. Your neighborhood lesbian bar in the heart of Fort Lauderdale and just minutes from Fort. Lauderdale Beach. Wednesday All the fun, half the price 2-4-1 All Day, All Night

PJ’s Corner Pocket

1508 NE 4th Ave, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33304, (954) 763-8219. South Florida’s Leading Levi, Leather and Uniform Bar/Club. Every night is Bear Night. Bear Happy. Hour Every Thursday. Caged Hunks Sat Night

Bathhouse. 2650 E. Oakland Park Blvd, Fort Lauderdale, Florida (954) 566-6750. A Private Club for Bi/Gay men. “bear and cub” Thursday $4 Off For Bear & Cub. Tuesday leather night - $4.off wear any type of leather.

Rosie’s Bar and Grill

Corner Pub Bar

Scandals Country Western Bar

2449 Wilton Drive, Wilton Manors, FL 33305, (954) 567-1320. Wilton Manor’s Best Burger in Town. Try the Fat Elvis. Happy Hour 5 p.m. to 9 p.m.

1915 N. Andrews Ave, Wilton Manors, FL 33311, (954) 564-7335. Redefining what a bar should be. Thursday’s margarita madness $4, Monday’s “Underwear Night. 2 for 1” until 9:30 p.m.

Oakland Park, FL 3334, (954) 567-2432. Scandals Gay and Lesbian Country Western. Dance Bar in Wilton Manors. Tuesdays Pool League, and Free Dance Lessons

Cubby Hole

2031 Wilton Drive, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33305, (954) 563-8001. Sidelines Sports Bar and Billiards is a unique, friendly, and accepting place to relax with a cold beer, great drinks and Martinis. Happy Hour M-F 4 p.m. to 2 a.m.

823 N. Federal Highway, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33304, (954) 728-9001. The Cubby Hole is one of Fort Lauderdale’s most unique and popular Neighborhood bar for men. Underwear Wednesday’s. “Boxers n’ Briefs” get 2 for 1 drinks 9 p.m. to close

The Depot Cabana Bar and Grill

2935 N. Federal Hwy, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33304, (954) 5377076. Voted the “Friendliest” Gay Bar in Fort Lauderdale. Monday’s $1.99 Drinks and $.50 wings open to close

Dudes Bar

3270 NE 33rd St Fort Lauderdale FL 954-568-7777. Sexy hot men starting to shake the booty daily from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. On Sundays enjoy karaoke with Peter Petrucci. Great drink specials every Monday with $1 well drinks from 9 p.m. to 2 a.m.

Sidelines Sports Bar

Smarty Pants

3038 North Federal Hwy, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33306, (954) 561-1724. Great Local Hangout in Fort Lauderdale with Great Drink Specials. Saturday’s Free Breakfast to Order – 8 a.m.

The Stable

205 East Oakland Park Blvd., Oakland Park, FL 33334, (954) 565-4506 A neighborhood bar with a different theme every night, from drag shows and bingos, to bears and underwear.

Torpedo

Georgie’s Alibi

2829 W. Broward Blvd., Fort Lauderdale, FL 33312, (954) 587-2500. Your Dance Destination Till Dawn. Open Late for You To Devour The Night. Open 7 nights a week till 4 a.m.

Johnny’s

Palm Beach County

2266 Wilton Drive, Wilton Manors, FL 33305, (954) 5652526. Fort Lauderdale’s best & longest happy hour. Wednesdays $2 Domestics & $1 Schnapps after 9 p.m. 1116 W. Broward Blvd., Fort Lauderdale, FL 33312, (954) 5225931. Monday Dragon with TP Lords, Daisy D. and DJ Rob Sky Some of the hottest guys around with great happy hour drink specials. Bring all your friends to this sexy Bar.

The Cottage (Tea-Dance Sundays)

The Manor

Fort Dix

2345 Wilton Drive, Wilton Manors, FL 33305 (954) 626 0082 - Come Dine, Dance, Drink, Mingle and of course Relax. 2 for 1 happy hour Tues-Friday 3 to 9 p.m. Indoor/Outdoor Dining. Dance the night away Thursday through Sunday. Live music Wed., Fri., Sat., Sun. Visit themanorcomplex.com

Matty’s on the Drive

2426 Wilton Drive, Wilton Manors, FL 33305 (954) 564-1799. Matty’s is one of the few bars in Wilton Manors that’s just that –a bar. Wild Wednesday’s $.75 Drinks, 13 Drinks for less than $10. 5 p.m.

522 Lucerne Ave, Lake Worth, Fl, 33414. (561) 586-0080 Great Service, Great Food, Full Stocked Bar, Great Professional Tea-Dance every Sunday 6205 Georgia Ave, West Palm Beach, Florida 33405 Directions, (561) 533-5355. Mostly local crowd looking to mingle and relax. Place rocks with a Fabulous DJ on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sunday T-Dance.

H.G. Rooster

823 BELVEDERE ROAD, WEST PALM BEACH FLORIDA 33405, (561)-832-9119. H.G. Roosters is West Palms oldest gay club. Sunday’s Complimentary BBQ 5 p.m., Hot Male Dancers 6 p.m., Karaoke 11 p.m.

By Brian Swinford

Have an event you want to list? If so send me an email at Calendar@sfgn.com. Mara (Thurs-Sat)

1132 North Dixie Highway, Lake Worth FL $3 Drinks. No Cover. Open till 5 a.m. Ladies night on Thursdays and Karaoke on Fridays.

The Mad Hatter

1532 North Dixie Hwy ,Lake Worth, FL 33460. (561) 547-8860. Cheap drinks, friendly bartenders, and free pool SundayThursday. Stop by and relax at this no-attitude haunt.

The Bar Lake Worth

2211 North Dixie Highway Lake Worth. (561) 370-3954 Thebarlakeworth.com. Men and women share this mostly-locals space as a calm and friendly watering hole. The bar often features live music which can be a nice break from thumping bass.

Tag Bar

25 Northeast 2nd Avenue, Delray Beach, FL 33483 954-801-3247. Delray Beach’s only gay bar. Mon - Sun: 4 p.m. - 2 a.m. Awesome Drink Specials.

Miami-Dade Club Space

34 NE 11th St ,Miami ,Florida, 33132,(305) 350-1956 Space Miami Voted Best U.S Club IDMA 2011. The go-to venue for any nightlife enthusiast in the nation, the club is proudly marching on into its second decade of operation.

Club Sugar

Discotekka

950 NE 2nd Ave, Downtown Miami, Florida 33132,(305) 3509084. One of the best night clubs In Miami. Every Saturday the hottest DJ’s from the top performers. Drink Special Every Saturday

Johnny’s Miami 62 NE 14 Street Downtown Miami Florida (305) 640-8749. Open Wed. through Sun. The hottest men in the universe strip shows nightly from 6 p.m. sexy from wall to wall. Free entrance. Free parking. Free VIP rooms. Featuring the Hottest Male Dancers and The Best VIP ROOMS and always $5 Drinks. Full Lineup at ed at

http://www.Facebook.com/JohnnysMiami Score

727 Lincoln Rd, Miami Beach, Florida, 33139. (305) 561-5521. Score is located in the heart of South Beach in the thriving and infamous promenade, Lincoln Road. Bigger Saturday’s sexy male dolls.

Swinging Richards

17450 Biscayne Blvd, N Miami Beach, Fl 33160 954-357-2532 Tuesdays-Saturdays from 6 p.m. to 6 a.m. Come and enjoy fully nude guys dancing to the best music in South Florida.

Twist

1057 Washington Ave, Miami Beach, Fl, 33139. (305) 538-9478. Never a Cover…Always a Groove. Resident star DJ Mika spins tribal. Every Saturday TWIST is full of the hottest men in Miami. Muscle boy dancers taking it off in the Bungalow Bar.

2301 SW 32nd Ave, Miami, Florida, 33145, (305) 443-7657. All the sweetness you’ll need in one club. Every Thursday “drag wars” with TP Lords. $5 house drinks & $4 Domestic beers all night.

Key West 801 Bar

801 Duval St., Key West, Florida,(305) 294-4737. Cabaret shows upstairs with nightly performances by famed performers Sushi, Kylie, RV Beaumont, Margo, and others. Happy hour specials daily from 11 a.m.- 8 p.m.

The Bourbon St. Pub

724 Duval St. (305) 296-1992. Key West’s premier video bar with LIVE DJ’S nightly. A taste of N’Awlins in the heart of Old Town – Enjoy Key West’s hottest music videos on the large screen while the boys entertain on the bar. No Cover.

La Te Da

1125 Duval St. 305-296-6706 Fun Gay-Friendly atmosphere. Cabaret entertainment during season including Randy Roberts and Chris Peterson. Enjoy great live music Tuesday thru Sunday with Lenore Troia. Cover charge may apply. Great outside bar if you just want to enjoy a cocktail and chat while people watching on Duval Street.

Club Aqua

711 Duval St.,Key West, Florida,(305) 294-0555. Monday’s Dueling Bartenders. Your Bartender’s sing, shake, and stir their way through happy hour 5:30 p.m. - 8:30 p.m.

Kwest

705 Duval St. , Key West, Florida,(305) 292-8500. Key West AllMale Strip Club. Daily Happy Hour from 3-8 p.m. And a piano sing-a-long every Wednesday night.

Pearl’s Patio Bar

525 United Street, Key West, FL(305) 293-9805 ext. 156. Pearl’s Patio is a great place to enjoy a drink and relax. Happy Hour – every weekday from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. Friday’s are Extended Happy Hour 5 p.m. - 9 p.m.

NIGHTLIFE

Brandon Hilton Melts Hearts on the Drive

Rising star to perform following Get Out The Vote Bar Crawl By Ryan Dixon

“It freaked me out at first, because he election of the 45th President of the United States is turning all I did was create an account, post a out to be a tightly contested picture, and then bam!” said Brandon. In 2007, Brandon released event. Many have seen the need to have his first single, “I Wunna Meet You,” on MySpace every vote counted and that garnered him a cult fan have come together for following and a YouTube hit the Wilton Manors Get with over 2 million views. Out The Vote Bar Crawl. The Crawl Starts at 2 p.m. In July 2010, just shy of his 23rd birthday, Brandon on Sept. 30 at Sidelines and concludes at Matty’s released his debut album, “Dirty On The Dance Floor.” at the opposite end of the The album would eventually Drive. Crawlers will be make it to number ten on the treated to a performance electronic/dance charts. 2011 by rising star and Internet sensation Brandon Hilton would prove to be his breakout Brandon Hilton year with his second album, as his Frozen Heart Tour stops in South Florida. “Nocturnal,” peaking at a career high 63 Brandon Hilton, born Brandon James, on iTunes’ pop charts. Brandon now has 17 is the epitome of an Internet sensation. tracks, 4 singles, 3 music videos, accumulated He stated as a model at the age of 14 over 4 million YouTube views, over 150,000 with ad campaigns for designers and MySpace fans, over 40,000 twitter followers department stores. At 18, like many his and over 15,000 likes on Facebook. 2012 will mark the release of his second age, Brandon started a MySpace page that launched him into Internet stardom. studio album and third album overall. He

pre-released two singles, “One” and most recently “Set Fire to the Night,” to a very pleased crowd of listeners. The currently untitled album is slated to be his best yet with tracks co-produced by producers who’ve also worked with Foster the People, Britney Spears, and many others. Brandon has called the album “a dance floor killer” and his “masterpiece of pop music!” Be sure to catch Brandon, his voice and his beats this Sunday at Matty’s On The Drive. And if you haven’t registered to vote or updated your information, workers will be on hand to assist you take care of all of that so that come November, just like Brandon, your voice is heard.

If You Go When: Sunday, Sept. 30, 2 p.m. Where: Matty’s on the Drive 2426 Wilton Drive Wilton Manors, FL 33305 How Much: Free

September 26, 2012 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

The

Fitness Guy

EXERCISE OF THE WEEK The hinge German Seoane, the lead personal trainer at Push Fitness , demonstrates The Hinge which is a great exercise to work the abdominal muscles . Sitting on an exercise mat with your hands on the floor , lean

back to a 45-degree angle with your legs extended and your feet raised off the floor . Pull your knees in toward your chest. Hold, then return to the starting position and repeat.

By Peter Jackson, CPT

Is Greek yogurt really better?

Q: Whatever happened to plain old yogurt? Everything now seems to be Greek yogurt which costs close to twice as much as my store-brand. What’s the difference? A: There are many differences ranging from how each is made to texture and nutritional value – and yes, Greek yogurt wins hands down. Let’s compare a 6 oz. container of Chobani brand (my favorite) Plain Greek Yogurt to the Publix brand equivalent. Both have about the same amount of calories (Chobani, 100; Publix 110) and neither has saturated or Trans fats. But the Greek yogurt has almost half the sodium (80 mg versus 140mg), fewer carbs (7g versus 19g), fewer sugars (7 g versus 12g) and, best of all, twice as much protein (18g versus 9g). The Greek brand loses in one category: it has less calcium – 20% of the daily recommended amount versus 30% in the store brand.Greek yogurt is thicker because it is strained more during processing and so liquid is removed. This makes it creamier and a perfect replacement for recipes which call for unhealthy mayonnaise or cream cheese. You can also use Greek yogurt as a dip for fruit and veggies.

Brown rice: A healthier choice over white rice?

Q: I was at Chipotle recently and the guy in front of me asked for brown rice. The server said they had a batch coming up in a few min-

September 26, 2012 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

➊ German Seoane

demonstrates the hinge .

utes but did he want the white rice instead as “it’s all the same thing.” That got me thinking…what IS the difference between white and brown rice? A: The short answer is that brown rice is a whole, natural grain which loses vital nutrients when the hull is removed to convert it to white rice. Both have similar amounts of calories and carbohydrates, but white rice is sadly lacking in a long list of essential nutrients – including magnesium, vitamin B6, vitamin E, zinc, thiamin and iron. Most significantly though, is that brown rice has three times the fiber than white rice (3.5 g versus 1 g per cup). We need 25 to 38g of fiber in our diets every day, but many Americans fall short of that.

How much do you sweat?

Q: I’m training for my first marathon and find I sweat buckets compared to other runners. Is there a way to calculate my sweat rate? A: Yes, it’s very simple.You will need three facts for the for-

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mula: your pre-exercise weight (in underwear), the number of fluid ounces of water or sports drink you consume during your training (16 oz. = 1 pound), and your post exercise weight (in underwear). Here’s the calculation: Sweat Rate = [Pre-exercise weight – Post-exercise weight] + Fluids consumed / Time (hours). Remember to rehydrate with more fluid than you lost in sweat.

TIP OF THE WEEK

ADD ALMONDS TO YOUR DIET Add a handful of sliced almonds to your oatmeal, bran cereal, salads or steamed vegetables. Almonds are rich in minerals such as zinc, magnesium and phosphorus and are one of the best sources of alphatocopherol vitamin E. This is important for fitness buffs because vitamin E is a potent cancer-fighting antioxidant that prevents free radical damage after heavy workouts, helping your muscles to recover faster. Almonds contain unsaturated fat, the “good” fat, and there is no cholesterol. One or two handfuls a day are reccomended.

Peter Jackson is the owner of Push Fitness, a private, full-service personal training gym in Oakland Park which offers cutting-edge fitness programs for individuals, couples and small groups. His columns are syndicated and published in newspapers across the USA and Canada. Peter welcomes your questions at peter@PushFitnessFTL.com or visit him online at www.PushFitnessFTL.com.

September 26, 2012 â&#x20AC;˘ SouthFloridaGayNews.com