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JANUARY 30, 2013 • Volume 4 • Issue 5

Bathhouse Betty ‘Miss M’ talks gay fans, bullying and her ‘bittersweet’ bathhouse days page 24

‘MEN ONLY’ DEBATE STIRS ROYAL CONTROVERSY AT ROYAL PALMS page 10 The Black Leather INSIDE Ending THIS Magic History page Legend page page page AIDS ISSUE Flute Passes Month

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Check Out SFGN’s ‘Fabulous Fridays’

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Top 3 on SFGN.com

By Sergio N. Candido

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Last week’s hottest items that couldn’t wait to be printed

norm.kent@sfgn.com

Evans agreed to undergo 60 Narcotics Anonymous meetings to avoid jail time buy cocaine from an undercover police officer, according to TMZ. Scott agreed to attend 60 Narcotics Anonymous meetings, and if he completes all meetings within six months a judge is likely to dismiss the case, the actor’s lawyer said.

Evans was busted on Dec. 4 late in the afternoon in Los Angeles for attempt to possess a controlled substance. He was out on $10,000

bail that same night at 12:30 a.m.

The celebrity gossip site says Evans posted a comment on his Facebook page about the arrest: “Most ridiculous night of my life in LA so far. At least I made it a year before getting arrested,” he wrote.

The 29-year-old soap opera actor is best known for playing Officer Oliver Fish on ABC’s “One Life To Live.”

Prop 8 Backers Submit Briefs to Supreme Court

Chief Executive Officer Pier Angelo Guidugli

Editorial

The Supreme Court battle over gay rights in California has begun, with supporters of the state’s ban on gay marriage already submitting their opening briefs with the justices.

Proposition 8 backers are trying to convince justices to uphold the vote that banned same-sex

marriage in the state in 2008. They argue that the state’s constitution doesn’t “mandate the traditional gendered definition of marriage, but neither does our Constitution condemn it.This Court, accordingly, should allow the public debate regarding marriage to continue through the democratic process, both in California and throughout the Nation,” according to the court document acquired by Buzzfeed.

Opponents to the gay marriage ban in California still haven’t filed

Website Director Dennis Jozefowicz Online News Director Sergio N. Candido sergio.candido@sfgn.com

spotlight for spearheading a White House petition to deport anti-guns British journalist Piers Morgan, have surfaced where he makes the conspiracy claims.

He says that the government is “encouraging homosexuality with chemicals so that people don’t have children.” The proof? In one clip Jones cuts open a juice box to show the plastic membrane supposedly filled with the gay chemicals.

Arts/Entertainment Editor JW Arnold jw@prdconline.com

International Travel Editor Joey Amato

Business Editor Richard Gary

Sports Editor Ryan Dixon ryan.dixon@sfgn.com

Senior Features Correspondents Tony Adams Jesse Monteagudo

Correspondents Donald Cavanaugh Andrea Dulanto Dylan Bouscher

Contributing Columnists

Wayne Besen Brian McNaught Dana Rudolph David Webb Ric Reily Victoria Michaels Calendar Editor Brian Swinford Editorial Cartoonists Karl Hampe Darryl Smith Staff Photographers J.R. Davis Pompano Bill Steven Shires

He concludes of the plastic: “After [little boys] are done drinking your juices, [they’re] ready to go out and have a baby... [they’re] ready to put together a garden of roses... [they’re] ready to go put lipstick on...”

In another clip he says that chemicals are seeping into water ways and turning male frogs into female frogs, but there is no proof that it has the same effects on humans.

Gay Alabama Man Allegedly Victim of a Hate Crime

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Read our daily stories at SFGN.com You can also find us on •Florida’s Hillsborough County Votes Down Domestic Partner Registry Facebook: Hillsborough County Commissioners voted 4-3 to deny a domestic partnership registry SouthFloridaGayNews • India Bans Gay Couples from Seeking Surrogate Mothers in the Country Twitter: @soflagaynews.

The country banned foreign single parents and LGBT couples from seeking surrogate mothers Richie Covington was on his way to a pick up groceries when a man physically assaulted him

Graphic Designer Mark Pauciullo

Sales & Marketing

Argues chemicals in government-engineered juice boxes make people gay The orange juice you drink in the morning is probably the reason why you’re gay, says radio host and Second Amendment champion Alex Jones.

Video clips of Jones, who recently came into the

Managing Editor Gideon Grudo gideon.grudo@sfgn.com

their opening briefs.

According to the American Foundation for Equal Rights, the court will hear the oral argument in Hollingsworth v. Perry, the federal constitutional challenge to California’s Proposition 8, on Tuesday, March 26. The Supreme Court also indicated it will hear oral arguments in United States v. Windsor, a challenge to the Defense of Marriage Act, on Wednesday, March 27.

Radio Host Says Juice Boxes Make You Gay

Editor in Chief Jason Parsley jason.parsley@sfgn.com

Supporters of California’s ban on gay marriage submitted briefs to justices

&• Three More Quickies to Wake You Up 2

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

Publisher Norm Kent

Captain America’s Brother Guilty of Drug Charges Scott Evans, an openly gay soap opera actor and brother of Captain America actor Chris Evans, has pleaded guilty to attempted possession of cocaine after being busted by Los Angeles Police last December.

The actor was arrested in early December after he tried to

January 30 2013 • Volume 4 • Issue 5

Community Outreach Coordinator John Fugate Advertising Sales Manager Mike Trottier Assistant Sales Manager Justin Wyse Classifieds Sales Associate Adrian Evans Advertising Sales Associates Edwin Neimann Mark Schram National Sales Representative Rivendell Media todd@rivendellmedia.com

Accounting Services by CG Bookkeeping South Florida Gay News.com is published weekly.

The opinions expressed in columns, stories, and letters to the editor are those of the writers. They do not represent the opinions of South Florida Gay News. com, Inc., or the Publisher. You should not presume the sexual orientation of individuals based on their names or pictorial representations in SFGN. Furthermore the word “gay” in SFGN should be interpreted to be inclusive of the entire LGBT 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 the Associated Press and our columnists, is protected under federal copyright and intellectual property laws, and is jealously guarded by the newspaper. Nothing published may be reprinted in whole or part without getting written consent from the Publisher of SFGN, at his law office, at Norm@NormKent.com. SFGN, as a private corporation, reserves the right to enforce its own standards regarding the suitability of advertising copy, illustrations and photographs. Copyright©2013 South Florida Gay News.com, Inc.

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January 30, 2013 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

NATIONAL NEWS

Boy Scouts To Consider Dropping Gay Ban

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new policy that would leave it up to local Boy Scout of America chapters to decide whether or not to accept gays is currently under discussion at the top levels of the private organization, according to scouting officials.

“The chartered organizations that oversee and deliver scouting would accept membership and select leaders consistent with their organization’s mission, principles or religious beliefs,” Deron Smith, a spokesman for the Boy Scouts’ national organization, told NBC News.

A decision on the current, decades-long national ban could come as early as next week. If approved, the new policy would eliminate the national ban altogether.

Last year, the BSA voted to reaffirm the policy banning gay scout members and scout leaders after a two-year examination.

Back in 2000, the Supreme Court found that it was part of the organization’s first First Amendment right of free expression to allow only “morally straight” people to join its ranks.

SFGN will continue to follow the progress of this story.

January 30, 2013 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

Photo courtesey of fort meade

By Sergio N. Candido

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By Sergio N. Candido

Daniel Radcliffe on Gay Sex Scenes: ‘I’m Just Happy It’s a Well-Done Scene’ Harry Potter star Daniel Radcliffe is surprised that the conversation about his latest film “Kill Your Darlings” centered around his gay sex scenes.

“What weirded me out the most last night was people were asking me all these questions about the gay sex scenes,” Radcliffe told MTV after the premiere on Jan. 18.

Radcliffe played writer Allen Ginsberg in an indie drama about the Beat Generation and the people at the forefront of the youth subculture, including William S. Burroughs and Jack Kerouac.

In the movie, his character has sex with Lucien Carr, played by Dane DeHaan.

He recently told Esquire the gay sex scenes didn’t bother him at all, and he was pleased with the results: “I’m just happy that it’s a well-done scene,” he told Esquire. “[Director] John [Krokidas] had never seen the version of that scene that he wanted: Gay sex in a film that felt very real. He wanted to achieve that and he did.”

According to Huffington Post writer Michael Hogan, Radcliffe’s commitment to acting in this movie felt very real.

“Plenty of male actors have passionately kissed male co-stars in films, as Radcliffe and the excellent Dane DeHaan do here, but it’s hard to recall a Hollywood star as famous as this one simulating the act of homosexual lovemaking this explicitly — knees in the air, lover on top of him — or this vulnerably,” he wrote.

Goodbye Lord Voldemort, Harry Potter just grew up.

South Florida Man Pressured To Move Rainbow Pride Flag Out of Property Front Big, star-spangled American flags are a staple at the porches of many homes, but

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when one gay man decided to display his pride with the rainbow flag, neighbors did not seem to like the sight of it.

Dave Armstrong, who lives with his partner at a trailer park in Boynton Beach, said the pride flag he was displaying on the front of his home was removed by someone.

He’s calling it discrimination.

“I think we’re being discriminated against because we’re a gay couple [who] live there,” Armstrong told WPBF. So he decided to contact his landlord: “I said, ‘Listen, everybody else has an American flag on the front of their property, so why can’t I have my pride flag right out here?’”

But the landlord actually sided with the neighbors, and asked Armstrong to display any pride flag in the back of the property after the residents complained. The landlord, who preferred to remain anonymous, told WPBF that Armstrong is just trying to disrupt the community by creating a fuss about the incident.

For his part, Armstrong said he plans to get legal assistance.

Girl Writes Letter in Response to Obama’s Omission of Trans People in Speech The gay community applauded President Obama for mentioning them during his inaugural speech, but for transgender people, the meaning of Obama’s words was left open for interpretation.

Did he mean “LGBT” when he said “gay”?

An 11-year-old transgender girl wondered why the president didn’t include the t-community in his speech. So Sadie, as she’s called, decided to write her own speech: “Transgender people are not allowed the freedom to do things everyone else does, like go to the doctor, go to school, get a job, and even make friends,” she wrote in part of her letter.

“When they grow up, transgender adults have a hard time getting a job because the boss thinks the customers will be scared away.”

Sadie’s mother, Sage, told the Huffington Post that her daughter started transitioning from male to female when she was still in kindergarten.

She’s currently attending a public school and is very open about who she is.

“I’m always ‘on’ when we go out because I never know

when she’ll strike up a conversation with the person in front of her in line at Trader Joe’s.

When she chats with people, she introduces herself as, “Hi, I’m Sadie, my favorite color is pink, I’m vegan, and I’m transgender. Who are you?’” she said.

Sage told HuffPost supported her daughter’s idea to write the letter because she thought “it might help empower her and overcome any feelings of oppression.”

Poll: Gay Men Using Grindr, Other Hookup Apps Likely to Have Unprotected Sex About half of all men who have sex with other men and use apps like Grindr, Manhunt, and Scruff to hook up have unprotected sex, according to a recent survey.

The study, named “Zero Feet Away: Perspective on HIV/AIDS and Unprotected Sex in Men Who Have Sex with Men Utilizing Location-based Mobile Apps,” and carried out by New York nonprofit Community Health Care Network found that although 80 percent of respondents said they knew about the dangers of HIV and how the virus is transmitted, 46.4 percent admitted to not using condoms “always, often or sometimes.”

Researchers polled 725 gay and bisexual men from Australia, South America, Europe, the United Kingdom, Canada and the U.S. The reasons for going bareback? At the top of the list was the argument that “with condoms, [sex] does not feel the same.” In second placed was “impulsive sexual behaviors.”

“The survey findings show a clear disconnect between the reasons why men engage in unprotected anal intercourse and the way prevention initiatives attempt to address risk behaviors,” said Renato Barucco, transgender program manager at CHN and co-author of the study.

Gay Kentucky Baptist Minister Arrested For Protesting In Support Of Gay Marriage Rev. Maurice Blanchard, an openly gay Baptist minister in Louisville, Kentucky, was arrested with his partner for refusing to leave the county clerk’s office after applying for a marriage license as a form of protest.

“If we don’t act, we are

accomplices in our own discrimination,” Blanchard told the Louisville CourierJournal. “We have to resist.”

While gay marriage is illegal in the state, the 34-year-old preacher decided to go with his partner, Dominique James, and ask for a marriage license because they felt a “spiritual obligation” and to show that gay couples will not be “silent accomplices to our own discrimination.”

The two were arrested on trespassing charges on Jan. 22 after refusing to leave the Jefferson County Clerk’s Office.

Blanchard and James got married in a Unitarian Church six years ago.

“It is important that the place we have our home and where we worship allows us the same civil rights that others have,” Blanchard said. “We love where we are from.”

Boeing Agrees to Offer Gay Employees Pension Benefits After using the Defense of Marriage Act as excuse to deny partner benefits for gay couples in November, aircraft maker Boeing has agreed to grant Washington State gays pension benefits.

Boeing Co. told union workers at the Society of Professional Engineering Employees in Aerospace it would give its gay employees based out of Washington equal survivor pension benefits, according to The Stranger.

The exact contract read: “Recognizing Boeing’s commitment to equality without regard to sexual orientation, Boeing will extend pension survivor benefits to all spouses, as defined under either State or Federal law whichever defines the same sex person as a spouse.”

In November, Boeing had denied equal benefits for gay couples arguing that even though gay marriage is legal in Washington, the federal government does not recognize same-sex unions under DOMA. DOMA is a 1996 law that defines marriage as a union between a man and a woman, thus depriving gay couples of the rights and privileges granted to heterosexual couples, like filing tax returns together and maintaining estate rights after widowing.

“We are satisfied that this language protects same-sex spouses,” Ray Goforth, executive director of SPEEA’s IFPTE Local 2001, told The Stranger.

The local union represents 23,000 Boeing employees, most of them engineers and technical workers who live in Washington.

January 30, 2013 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

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January 30, 2013 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

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INTERNATIONAL NEWS

Britain Introduces Same-Sex Marriage Bill

Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, David Cameron

By Jill Lawless, Associated Press

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he British government published a bill to legalize same-sex marriage Friday, and said lawmakers will get their first vote on it in Parliament next month.

The Marriage (Same Sex Couples) Bill extends marriage to gay couples but excludes clergy in the Church of England the country’s official faith - from having to carry out the ceremonies.

That is intended to placate religious opponents of same-sex unions - though it has not stopped criticism of the bill from religious leaders.

“We feel that marriage is a good thing and we should be supporting more couples to marry and that is exactly what the proposals being brought forward today do,” Equalities Minister Maria Miller told BBC radio.

But she said the bill offered “protections ... for churches who feel that this isn’t appropriate for their particular beliefs.”

The bill is likely to become law because it is supported by Conservative Prime Minister David Cameron, many members of

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his Cabinet and most Liberal Democrat and Labour lawmakers.

But some traditionalist Conservative lawmakers say they will vote against it. The first debate and vote are scheduled for Feb 5.

Church of England clergy - and those in the equivalent Church in Wales - have a legal duty to marry parishioners that does not apply to other religions.

Miller said that “to protect them from legal challenge ... the bill makes clear that this duty does not extend to same-sex couples.”

The bill allows for other religious groups who wish to conduct same-sex ceremonies such as Quakers and liberal Jews - to do so if their governing bodies approve.

Since 2005, gay couples in Britain have been able to form civil partnerships, which give them the same legal protection, adoption and inheritance rights as heterosexual married partners - but not the label of marriage.

Polls suggest a majority of Britons support extending marriage to same-sex couples, but the issue remains divisive.

January 30, 2013 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

NATIONAL NEWS

Photo courtesey of thibous

NFL’s Brendon Ayanbadejo Promotes Gay Rights

Brendon Ayanbadejo at Ravens M&T Bank Stadium practice in August 2012

By Sergio N. Candido

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altimore Ravens’ Brendon Ayanbadejo, one of the most vocal players supporting gay rights in the NFL, is looking for ways to promote marriage equality using the Super Bowl media attention his team is getting.

In a recent interview with the New York Times, the football player said he had a sort of epiphany one night around 3 a.m., which made him realize he had to use the opportunity to promote equality.

His team is set to go head to head with the San Francisco 49ers on Feb. 2 for the Super Bowl.

“It’s one of those times when you’re really passionate and in your zone. And I got to thinking about all kinds of things, and I thought: How can we get our message out there?” he told the Times.

So he sent an email to LGBT advocate Brian Ellner, and Michael Skolnik, political director for hip-hop demigod Russell Simmons, to explore ways to promote the cause.

Ayanbadejo and Minnesota Vikings punter Chris Kluwe are two of the most vocal advocates for gay rights in the sport.

The Ravens player said that his appreciation for the gay community started at an early age, when his stepfather was the resident director of an LGBT dorm at the University of California at Santa Cruz.

Ayanbadejo and his family lived there.

“I was raised around gay people in a very liberal society,” he said. “Discrimination was never allowed.”

He hasn’t revealed any plans to promote LGBT rights during the Super Bowl yet.

January 30, 2013 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

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NATIONAL NEWS

Another Marriage Victory

Rhode Island House easily passes gay marriage bill

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ROVIDENCE, R.I. (AP) — The Rhode Island House of Representatives on Thursday overwhelmingly passed legislation to allow gays and lesbians to marry in the only New England state where they can’t.

The House voted 51-19 after an often emotional debate that touched on civil rights, religion and the nature of marriage.

The bill now moves to the Senate, where both supporters and opponents of gay marriage say it is difficult to predict the bill’s fate.

“This has been a long journey,” said House Speaker Gordon Fox, who is gay and supported same-sex legislation when it was first introduced in 1997. “Today is a great day.

Today … we stand for equality, we stand for justice.”

Thursday’s vote posed the most significant challenge yet for gay marriage in Rhode Island. While the five other New England states already allow gay couples to marry, attempts have fallen flat in this heavily Catholic state.

“I wanted to be here to see it,” said

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70-year-old Warwick resident Ken Fish, who is gay. Fish showed up at the Statehouse hours early to ensure he had a seat in the crowded viewing gallery. “Go back 10 years, even five years, and I wasn’t sure we’d ever get here. We’re not done yet, but this is a big one.”

Nine states and the District of Columbia now allow gay and lesbian couples to marry.

Gay marriage opponents vow to press their case in the Senate, where Senate President Teresa Paiva Weed, D-Newport, remains opposed to the legislation. Chris Plante, director of the state chapter of the National Institute for Marriage, said he believes state leaders who support gay marriage aren’t reflecting public sentiment.

“Rhode Islanders care about marriage, and they don’t want to see it redefined,” he said.

Some opponents have suggested placing gay marriage on the ballot as a referendum, but the idea is a nonstarter with Fox and independent Gov. Lincoln Chafee, a gay marriage supporter.

A handful of lawmakers rose during

Photo courtesey of Jose Antonio Navas

By David Klepper, Associated Press

the debate to criticize gay marriage as a dangerous social experiment. Rep. Arthur Corvese, D-North Providence, warned lawmakers that same-sex marriage was an “irrevocable societal game-changer” that would redefine “the fundamental building block of our community” and could lead to the legalization of polygamy or plural marriages.

“Truth must not be sacrificed on the altar of political correctness,” he said. “Is this the vision you want for Rhode Island’s future? Is this the future you want for America?”

Supporters in Rhode Island are hoping to build on national momentum after votes to approve gay marriage in Maine, Maryland and Washington. Meanwhile, in Minnesota, voters rejected a proposed state constitutional amendment that would have prohibited gay marriage, the first time such a ballot question has failed in the United States.

Lawmakers who argued in favor of

allowing gays to marry warned their colleagues they could wind up on the wrong side of history if they cast a no vote.

“Your grandchildren someday will ask you… ‘How did you vote on marriage equality?’” said Rep. John Edwards, D-Tiverton. “Hopefully you’ll be able to say the right thing.”

Passage in the House was expected, as 42 of the 75 House members signed on as sponsors.

Two years ago, Fox dropped gay marriage legislation after he concluded the bill would not pass the Senate. Instead, lawmakers passed civil unions for same-sex couples.

But there has been little interest in the state.

In the year since civil unions were first offered, only 68 couples obtained civil union licenses.

Last year, Chafee signed an executive order recognizing same-sex marriages performed in other states.

January 30, 2013 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

NATIONAL NEWS

Pride On Ice

Ohio State skates against Irish in gay pride hockey night

By Ryan Dixon Dame. Notre Dame is a Catholic college steeped in its religious beliefs. The college has come under fire for not including LGBT protecting or acceptance in university documents and for denying an LGBT student organization 15 times.

January 30, 2013 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

This past December, after a fivemonth review process, Notre Dame President Rev. John I. Jenkins accepted the recommendations of the Office of Student Affairs to expand and enhance the support of and services for students who identify as

LGBT, including the creation of a universityrecognized student organization.

In his pastoral plan, Father Jenkins said he could appreciate the careful and thoughtful work of the review that considered both the needs of his students and the teachings of the Catholic Church.

“As articulated in the University’s ‘Spirit of Inclusion’ statement, Notre Dame’s goal remains to create and sustain a welcoming and inclusive environment for all students,” Jenkins said. “I am confident that this multifaceted, pastoral approach represents the next step in advancing our efforts toward this aspiration for our LGBTQ students.”

SFGN contacted the office of the Most Rev. Kevin C. Rhoades, Bishop of the Diocese of Fort Wayne-South Bend.

Diocese Communications Director Sean McBride said that Bishop Rhoades is very impressed by Notre Dame’s decision and plan outline.

“Bishop Rhoades recognizes it took a lot of time and hard work to make this plan,” McBride said. “Catholic teachings tell us to respect and love human beings, and being welcoming to all falls in line with that.”

When asked if Bishop Rhoades himself approves of Father Jenkins decision, McBride said, “Father Jenkins is a wonderful pastor and Bishop Rhoades is completely behind him and the University.”

For more information on the You Can Play Project please visit Youcanplayproject.org.

Photo courtesey of Ohio State University

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n what is believed to be a first of its kind night in NCAA Division 1 men’s hockey, The Ohio State University Buckeyes will host the University of Notre Dame Fighting Irish on Feb 1, 2013 – a night that has been dubbed “Pride Night” by OSU athletics.

Chris Schneider, senior associate athletics director for sport administration at Ohio State and men’s hockey spokesperson, said this night is a culmination of the support of gay hockey fans and the university wanting to reach the LGBT market.

“Columbus Gay Hockey has always brought groups to our games and reached out to OSU fan experience about the night,” Schneider said. “We asked ourselves how we could make it bigger and decided to bring You Can Play on Board.”

The OSU men’s hockey team will be debuting a You Can Play video that night featuring players and head coach Mark Osiecki. Schneider said that having an organization that promotes acceptance and tolerance in sports, like You Can Play, was a major component of the night.

“We (Ohio State University) believe strongly in supporting the LGBT community,” Schneider said. “Our players are excited as well. Some of the guys didn’t even know what You Can Play was all about so this was an opportunity to educate them and hopefully our fans as well.”

The interesting twist in this night is their opponent, the University of Notre

Ohio State University plays the University of Notre Dame on Feb.1 Pride Night.

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LOCAL NEWS

Photo courtesey of Mark’s List

Royal Pains

Men only debate stirs palms flurry; resort alters policy

Party goers at a SMART Ride event at the Royal Palms

By Ryan Dixon

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ichelle Stonelake was excited to get to hang out with her friends on Sunday in late January, at the popular gay resort on Fort Lauderdale beach. Her hopes were dashed when Royal Palms resort employees told her no girls are allowed on the property.

“For as many times as I have been to your space for multiple fund raisers, it was an absolute shock to get turned away this afternoon from meeting up with friends at your [resort] because I am a girl,” Stonelake said in a post on the Royal Palms’ Facebook page. “REALLY....it is 2013 RIGHT,” she continued.

Women are allowed to participate in fundraisers at the resort. But on Sundays, the Royal Palms hosts two different Sunday afternoon parties, a T-Dance where women are included, and a Sunday “Funday” where they are not.

Don Bishop, who is one of the friends Stonelake intended to meet at that Sunday “Funday” party, said in a post on the Royal Palms’ Facebook page that he was “completely outraged” when he found out she was turned away because of her gender.

“I fully understand you are a gay, clothing optional male resort,” Bishop said in that same post. “But I urge you to rethink your policy denying entry to women during this now weekly, approximately four hour event.”

Bishop again told SFGN that he understands that the Royal Palms is a private,

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Comment instantly in the SFGN debate: bit.ly/Vnl6FR

men’s only resort, but that the resort chose to make that day’s event public by sending out invites on Facebook.

“The Facebook invite said to invite your friends, so I did,” Bishop said. “I thought it would be okay to invite her. It’s not like they’re hosting a sex party.”

Bishop admits that by inviting a female friend he was trying to incite change to end what he believed was gender discrimination.

“I was trying to stir the pot,” Bishop told SFGN. “If a private men’s resort decides to make it a public event (on Facebook) and encourage you to invite all of your friends, then they should let women in.”

And he did spark change.

Royal Palms Assistant General Manager Phillip Lafond confirmed that the resort changed its policies about women attending its Sunday events due in part to Bishop’s post, but said the resort had been toying with the idea of opening up to women for some time now.

“Traditionally most guest houses are old fashioned in their ways,” Lafond said. “But we’re exploring our options to better cater to a new generation that is more comfortable being around women. Those options including becoming more hetero-friendly.”

No matter what Bishop’s intention may have been, attorney Neil Kolner, vice president of the Gay and Lesbian Lawyers Network, said Bishop’s claim of discrimination may be unsubstantiated.

“My guess is that given the theme of the resort that is specifically billed as a clothing optional, men-only club, the decision to not allow women may not be deemed discriminatory,” Kolner said.

According to Bobby Raborn, general manager of the Coral Reef guest house in Fort Lauderdale, including women in gayfriendly, men’s only resorts seems to be a growing trend.

“We as a community used to be just gay, but now we segregate ourselves,” Raborn said. “You now have bears and twinks, tops and bottoms; we need to all just come together.”

“I’ve had women call who say they’ve seen us on Google. When I tell them that we’re all male they don’t seem to mind. When I say clothing optional, they usually say ‘thank you’ and say they’ll look elsewhere.”

Lafond said that the owners of the Royal Palms, an investor group led by Sweden’s Par Sanda, are testing the new policy with their Sunday “Funday” parties.

“It’s a tough line to cross with our customers,” Lafond said. “When you pay upwards of $200 a night at a men’s resort, you expect just men. We’re stuck in a tough spot but we’re still going to give it a shot.”

Bishop said he was pleased that the Royal Palms changed its mind and are allowing his female friends to come party with him.

“I think they did a great job in their response,” Bishop said. “I applaud that.”

January 30, 2013 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

LOCAL NEWS

Our Allies

Aqua Foundation presents Aqua Ally Awards 2013

By Andrea Dulanto

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y now, you’ve probably heard President Obama’s inaugural speech — the references to Seneca Falls, Selma and Stonewall, each representing the history of political movements for women, African Americans and LGBT individuals in the United States.

We were asked to think of these movements as our journey. So whether or not we are women, African Americans and/ or LGBT—if we really want equality, we need to think of ourselves as allies within all of these movements.

The Aqua Foundation for Women honors its own allies during the second annual Aqua Ally Awards on Thursday, Feb. 7, 2013 from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. at the Bacardi Building in Coral Gables.

In a statement from the Aqua Foundation, the reason for the awards is “to honor allies of the LGBT community because without them our victories would be slower to come and our ultimate equality would be harder to achieve. With them our burden is lightened…”

Furthermore, as Executive Director of the Aqua Foundation Robin Schwartz shared with SFGN: “When leaders such as President Obama and the NAACP publicly support gay marriage, it leads the way for others to follow.”

She also added that the Aqua Foundation “felt it was important to show our gratitude to those who support our community. This is our way of saying ‘thanks.’ ” Among the honorees at the Aqua Ally Awards is the aforementioned NAACP, television journalist Cristina Saralegui, and South Florida philanthropists Charles Million and Tim Nardi.

Accepting on behalf of the NAACP will be Adora Obi Nweze, President of the Florida State Conference of the NAACP. This past June, Nweze spoke at the 2012 annual Pride Seder at Temple Israel of Greater Miami about why the NAACP supports the LGBT community: “If there is discrimination in this country anywhere, it is wrong. Any time we see people who are being discriminated against, we must speak up and speak out.”

Cristina Saralegui is known as the “Latin Oprah.” The Aqua Foundation statement discusses Saralegui’s work as an LGBT ally: “She has used her fame and her television show to help start a conversation about HIV/AIDs in the Hispanic community. Her foundation, Arriba la Vida/Up with Life

Foundation, does vital work, educating about AIDs and supporting research.”

Local couple Charles Million and Tim Nardi will also be honored at the Aqua Ally Awards. “Tim and Charlie make it possible for community organizations like the Task Force and Aqua to hold fundraisers which provide needed funding for programming,” said Schwartz. According to the Aqua Foundation statement about the Aqua Ally Awards, one of million and Nardi’s many contributions was when they found “the venue for Aqua Affair and donat[ed] the appetizers for the event.”

For allies who would like to follow the example of these honorees, Schwartz discussed opportunities: “We welcome our allies to join our grants or scholarship committees, volunteer at our events and support our work by donating.”

Attending the Aqua Ally Awards is also a way for LGBT allies to start supporting the Aqua Foundation for Women.

Aqua Board and Founders

If You Go What: Aqua Ally Awards 2013 Where: Bacardi Building 2701 Le Jeune Road Coral Gables, FL When: Thursday, Feb. 7, 2013 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.

How Much: $75 - $95 To purchase tickets, visit www.aquafoundation.org For more information: Call 305-576-2782 or visit www.aquafoundation.org

January 30, 2013 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

11

PASSAGES

LeatherWerks Co-Founder Loses Battle with Cancer

By R Todd Schwing

12

a David Award for outstanding volunteer, and the humanitarian award from the Miss Miami Beach Pageant committee. Never one to rest on his laurels, Eric continued giving to his community in innumerable ways with an emphasis on the needs of the Leather Community and AIDS Service Organizations including: President of NLA Florida, President of FFA Florida Gold Coast, founding member of Leather University, Director of Living in Leather XIV, Chair of the 2000 Black Heart Ball, founding board member and President of the Leather Masked Ball and most recently as President of the revived Black Heart Ball.

To further support his community Eric has been a judge for countless local Leather Contests, Mr. Florida Drummer, Mr. New York Eagle, and Eric was invited to serve as a judge for the 2009 International Mister Leather contest.

Eric has also devoted untold hours as a teacher, facilitator and coach of those persons seeing to more fully enjoy their adult sexuality.

Again, Eric has taught extensively throughout South Florida as well as in Toronto, Ontario, Canada, Dallas, Texas, and Portland, Oregon.

Eric’s ongoing service to the community has recently been recognized with the 2007 Chuck Renslow President’s Award from the Leather Archives and Museum of Chicago, Illinois, and The Leather Journal’s 2008 Pantheon of Leather President’s Award.

A memorial service and celebration of life was held Sunday January 27 at Unitarian Universalist Church of Fort Lauderdale.

In lieu of flowers Ira and Eileen request contributions be made to the Black Heart Ball, 1226 NE 4th Avenue, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33304. Contributions to the Black Heart Ball are tax deductible.

Photo courtesey of pompono bill

E

ric Lawrence, a fixture of the Fort Lauderdale Gay and Leather Communities, and co-founder of LeatherWerks left life surrounded by friends and family peacefully after a long, courageous and graceful battle with cancer.

He was 68.

Born Larry Gene Troutfetter on October 10, 1944 in Cedar Rapids, Iowa son of Frances and Russell Troutfetter, Eric is survived by his husband Ira C. Smith, his step-mother Eileen Troutfetter of Hobe Sound, Florida, brothers William of Des Moines, Iowa and Gary of Bell Plain Minnesota, aunt Ruby Parker of Des Moines, Iowa and countless friends he made part of his family.

Eric called Fort Lauderdale home for decades and he has been a leader in the Gay and Leather Communities in Fort Lauderdale since 1981 long before anyone ever conceived that Gay was not inclusive enough for the LGBTQIA people of this world. Eric joined the South Florida Gay Pride Committee in response to Anita Bryant’s continuing attacks on gay civil rights. Eric’s first high profile roll as a community leader came nearly 30 years ago when he became president of the South Florida Gay Pride Committee in 1984. The following year Eric continued as President of South Florida Gay Pride and brought the 1985 Gay Pride Coordinators Conference to Fort Lauderdale. Held at the famous Marlin Beach Hotel, during that meeting the Gay Pride Coordinators Conference became the International Coordinators Conference which, after several interim re-brandings, exists today as InterPride.

In 1985 Eric received the first three of his countless community service awards: the South Florida Gay Community Award,

January 30, 2013 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

LOCAL NEWS

Seventeen Years of Pride Photo courtesey of Dennis Dean

Pride Factory Celebrates birthday with prizes throughout February

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A wealthplan planthat that isis thoughtfully constructed can help A wealth thoughtfully constructed can help you provide for those you love.

For same-sex partners, you provide for those you love. For same-sex partners,

The Pride Factory celebrates 17 years in business with a giveaway a day throughout February.

By Dori Zinn

I

f there was anything better than a birthday, it would be a birth month.

And there is no better teenager milking their birthday more than 17-year-old Pride Factory, who is celebrating the entire month of February.

The gay retail store is giving away goodies every day throughout February, with bigger prizes drawn every week and a grand prize on Feb. 28.

The Pride Factory had two prior locations — and two previous owners — before settling in at their current location on NE 13th street in Fort Lauderdale six years ago.

Rocky Bowell, the store’s general manager, said they don’t plan on moving anytime soon.

“We’ve had many offers to move, but we like it here,” Bowell says. “At our former location, we had a lot of trouble with parking and had a smaller store. Here, we have 8,300 sq. feet, great parking, and we’re just outside of Wilton Manors.”

Bowell, 33, has been working for the Pride Factory for 14 out of the 17 years. He got the job offer to be a shift manager at 19 while living in Ohio. He moved down and has been here ever since.

The store sells everything from clothing and bathing suits to adult toys and videos.

They are the self-proclaimed “largest gay

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Shaun Orcinolo For same-sex partners, a wealth plan has Shaun Orcinolo account of specific federal and state Astake Morgan Stanley Financial we have Family Wealth Director AstoMorgan Stanley FinancialAdvisors, Advisors, we the have the Family Wealth Director that knowledge can haveandmaterial Senior Vice President laws experience, resources toimpact assist youon your Senior Vice President experience, knowledge and resources to assist you Financial Advisor financial well being.

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retail store in South Florida.”

There are other stores around that sell to an even smaller niche market, but the Pride Factory is warehouse-like. Their in preparing for the future. Together, we can choose in preparing for the future. Together, we can choose former location was 6,800 sq. feet. Bowell strategies for planning, saving and investing that are most said the move allowed them to expand their Daniel Pye strategies for planning, saving and investing that are most Daniel Pye clothing and accessories, which accounts for appropriate for you, your partner and your family. Please Vice President appropriate more than half of their sales. He explained for you, your partner and your family. Please Vice President that the adult industry as a whole isn’t as Wealth Advisor call us to arrange a convenient time to meet.

Wealth Advisor call us to arrange a convenient time to meet. popular as it used to be, due to the increase in streaming and internet services, but their 2400 East Commercial Blvd. apparel is a driving force in bringing in new 2400 East Commercial Blvd. and returning customers.

Suite 1200 Suite 1200 And it’s those customers that Bowell and Fort Lauderdale, FL 33308 Pride Factory are toasting to all month long. Fort Lauderdale, FL 33308 800-669-7262 To enter the contest, fill out a form at the 800-669-7262 store and you’re automatically entered into shaun.b.orcinolo@morganstanley.com daily, weekly and the grand prize drawings. shaun.b.orcinolo@morganstanley.com daniel.pye@morganstanley.com Prizes include gift cards, DVD, lube baskets, daniel.pye@morganstanley.com sandals, sunglasses by Body Glove and Anarchy, clothing by Andrew Christian and Pistol Pete, plus much more. Store vendors were more than generous about donating goods for the prizes, Bowell says.

The appropriateness of a particular investment or strategy will depend on an investor’s individual circumstances On Thursday, Feb. 28, the store willThe have a appropriateness of a particular investment or strategy will depend on an investor’s individual circumstan and objectives. celebration with cake and door prizes while and objectives.

Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC, its affiliates and will Morgan Stanley Financial individual Advisorscircumstances do not provide taxobjectives. or legal announcing the grand prize winner, with The appropriateness of a particular or strategy depend on an investor’s Barney LLC, itsinvestment affiliates and for Morgan doand notand provide tax or le advice.Smith Individuals should consult their tax advisor mattersStanley involvingFinancial taxation andAdvisors tax planning their attorney merchandise valued at over $500. Morgan Stanley Morgan Stanley Smith Barneytheir LLC, itstax affiliates and Morgan Stanley Financial Advisors do notand provide tax or legal advice. advice.

Individuals should consult advisor for matters involving taxation tax planning and their attor for mattersshould involving trust othertaxation legal matters.

Shop online or find out more information Individuals consult theirand tax estate advisor planning for matterand involving and tax planning and their attorney for matter involving for matters involving trust and estate planning and other legal matters. trust and estate planning and other legal matters. about the store at pridefactory.myshopify. ©©2013 2013Morgan MorganStanley Stanley Smith Barney Member CRC402653 7307971 LGBT002 09/12 Smith Barney LLC.LLC. Member SIPC SIPC. com. © 2013 Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC. Member SIPC. CRC402653 7307971 LGBT002 09

January 30, 2013 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

As Morgan Stanley financial advisors, we have the experience, knowledge and resources to assist you in preparing for the future. Together, we can choose strategies for planning, saving and investing that are most appropriate for you, your partner and your family. Please call us to arrange a convenient time to meet.

13

LOCAL NEWS

Gay Rights Group Threatens Lawsuit Against Boca Raton

By Dylan Bouscher

I

n his crusade for equal rights, one man may have caught Boca Raton’s elected officials breaking laws, according to a first amendment lawyer.

Rand Hoch, President of the Palm Beach County Human Rights Council (PBCHRC), has persistently asked the Boca City Council to update a non-discrimination policy from 1966 and extend benefits to city employees’ domestic partners and their children for the last five months.

Since last September, Hoch has also requested several records from city officials.

Then on Jan. 23, after waiting 54 days on one of those requests, Hoch’s attorney Trent Steele gave Boca City Attorney Diana Grub Frieser an ultimatum.

“My client has authorized this firm to file suit against the City if the documents are not made available for inspection by 5 p.m. on Monday, January 28, 2013,” Steele wrote in his letter to Frieser. Despite that threat no lawsuit has been filed as of press time Tuesday, January 29.

The PBCHRC has also met with State Attorney Dave Aronberg to discuss investigating the city for violating public

14

records laws, according to Steele’s letter. a letter threatening litigation doesn’t negate The basis for law breaking is the time it took the fact that it may have violated the law by to respond to Hoch’s request, which Steele taking so long to produce the records.” calls an “unjustifiable” or “unreasonable” Boca’s Assistant City Manager Mike delay in his letter.

Woika, who compared Hoch’s attorney is protecting LGBTs from not alone in thinking discrimination to Boca’s officials have protecting pet lovers violated a law either. from discrimination Barbara Petersen, last fall, claims the city President of Florida’s responded to Hoch’s First Amendment request sooner than Foundation, agrees 54 days later. with Steele.

When SFGN “I would argue 54 requested comment days is unreasonable. from Woika and a copy Hoch is seeking of the city’s response, records that should be Woika refused to easily obtained and comment and sent the readily available, and response. which would contain After Hoch saw the little, if any, exempt response Woika sent, information,” Petersen he wondered why the wrote SFGN in an city could not send email. “The fact that him the same record. the City produced the “I firmly believe Rand Hoch, President of the Palm Beach records after receiving the November 29, County Human Rights Council (PBCHRC)

2012 letter is a complete -- and recent -fabrication,” Hoch told SFGN in an email.

“If Woika can’t produce the e-mail that transmitted it to me, my belief will be even stronger. Moreover, it establishes that the City did not adequately (or timely) comply with public records request #1.”

City Manager Leif Ahnell also hasn’t responded to several calls and messages from SFGN. The battle between gay rights activists and the City of Boca erupted last fall when LGBT leaders found out that in January 2011 Boca opted-out of Palm Beach County’s Equal Employment Ordinance – the only city in the county to do so. Hoch said that by passing Ordinance 5161, Boca was preserving its right to discriminate against LGBT employees if they wish.

Since then the PBCHRC launched the “Boca Bigots Run City Hall” campaign to shine a spotlight on LGBT rights in the city.

PBCHRC has since ceased the campaign because the city’s elected officials seemed to warming up to idea of updating their nondiscrimination policy.

January 30, 2013 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

The Regulars

By Karl Hampe

January 30, 2013 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

15

Health

Acupuncture for a Healthy Life

T

By Danielle Kassin Strauss from various infections, allergies, or the common cold, acupuncture is beneficial in strengthening the body’s immunity.

Whether the body is compromised by stress, depression or side effects from other treatments such as chemotherapy or medication, acupuncture treatments assist the body to regain balance and fight against strong pathogenic factors.

Once the type of the imbalance has been determined, a tailored plan of action can be created for the patient. The treatment often includes acupuncture as well as herbal therapy, cupping and moxibustion (heat therapy). Diet and lifestyle suggestions are habitually talked about also. With treatments, patients report more energy, a tranquil mind, a relaxed and blissful body, and improved immunity.

About Danielle Kassin Strauss:

Danielle Kassin Strauss was born in Miami and is a licensed acupuncturist and a board certified herbalist. She holds a Master’s of Science in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) from The Acupuncture and Massage College in Miami, Florida. As a practitioner of Chinese medicine, she is qualified to practice acupuncture, Chinese herbal medicine, cupping, moxibustion (heat therapy), and Chinese medical massage (gua sha, tui na) among other modalities.

Photo courtesey of Lars plougmann

o treat disease that has already developed is comparable to the behavior of those persons who begin to dig a well after they have become thirsty, and of those who begin to cast weapons after they have already engaged in battle. Would these actions not be too late?” –Huangdi Neijing (The fundamental doctrinal source text for Chinese Medicine) Traditional Chinese medical theory is biased toward keeping patients healthy rather than treating developed disease.

Unfortunately however, most Americans only seek medical attention when they feel sick, have a serious ailment or a severe pain.

Actually, years before something can be detected in an MRI or CAT scan, biochemical and energetic imbalances present as warning signs in the body.

These imbalances may present as subtle pain, insomnia, depression, irregular digestion, fatigue, headaches, and much more. Through a series of questions evaluating these subtle physical signs as well as a person’s emotional state, practitioners of acupuncture and Chinese medicine can perceive health problems in their earliest stages, before a person becomes critically ill. Chinese medicine can also be used to strengthen the immune system and increase energy.

For patients who frequently suffer

16

January 30, 2013 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

ChamberChat Monthly Column From The GLBX

W

ow, it feels that we just finished celebrating the holidays and the New Year and it’s already end of January.

President Obama remains the president for the next four years. The President delivered a very progressive speech during his Inauguration. By now, everyone heard his words during his Inauguration speech.

Words such as “Stonewall” were mentioned and he quoted that, “Our journey is not

from the Bliss Spa (thanks Micheal Wilson!).

Last but not least, the Riverside Hotel showed their commitment to the LGBT community - not only by continuing to do business with the LGBT community but by officially displaying the rainbow flag right on Las Olas Boulevard. Since the GLBX event December 13, the rainbow flag flies high and proud, with equal relevance and importance next to all the international flags (and at the main entrance also), to greet their guests

Tidbits and Tidings from the GLBX grow at an accelerated pace with a keen focus on being a conduit for business growth across its participants.

These are only a few highlights of 2012 there are certainly many more to mention.

Michael Faerber, Realtor with the D’Angelo Realty Group, was leading GLBX as their Chairman in 2012. Due to time restraints in 2013, he decided to step down as the Chair.

Faerber stated “It was such an honor and privilege to serve our business community in 2012. GLBX will continue the lead, in bridging various businesses, gay or straight, within our community-at-large. For decades we have fought for equality within society - GLBX members show that the ‘equality process’ happens continuously within our business community in the Greater Fort Lauderdale area.” Faerber continues to serve on the GLBX Board through-out 2013.

The newly elected GLBX Chair for 2013 is Jaime Yordán-Frau, a GLBX board member since 2012 and owner of Integro Success Unlimited.

“Jaime is very well qualified to take this leadership role and represent our business community within our community-at-large,

the Greater Fort Lauderdale Chamber of Commerce and Broward County,” Faerber said. “Jaime has my and the boards full support in his new role.”

He will be supported in his new role by Geph Scarr, partner of Scarr Insurance Group, and Chad Thilborger, who just launched his cook book “A Whole Heap of Goodness,” as well as by the entire board of the GLBX.

Save The Date Thursday February 21, 2013 – 11:30am - Hilton Fort Lauderdale Marina - and make plans to attend the Chamber’s 103rd Annual Meeting--presented by BB&T. Keynote speaker will be the Chairman and CEO of BB&T, Kelly King.

For further information and events check out the Chamber’s website at www. ftlchamber.com and don’t forget to “Like” GLBX on Facebook (GLBX – Gay Lesbian Business eXchange).

Jaime Yordán-Frau - Integro Success Unlimited – GLBX Chair 2013, Heiko Dobrikow – General Manager, Riverside Hotel, Michael Faerber – D’Angelo Realty Group – GLBX Chair 2012

complete until our gay brothers and sisters are treated like anyone else under the law.

For if we are truly created equal then surely the love we commit to one another must be equal as well.”

Welcome to 2013!

Quick recap of a great year for our community:

GLBX (Gay Lesbian Business eXchange) celebrated its four-year anniversary December 13 at the wonderful Riverside Hotel. In attendance were over 120 members and their guests - the Mayor of Broward County, Kristin Jacobs, Sherriff Al Lamberti and Dan Lindblade, CEO & President of the Greater Fort Lauderdale Chamber of Commerce (GFLCC) also showed their support.

Both the Mayor and Sherriff congratulated GLBX for achieving four successful years in operations. In Mayor Jacobs’ speech, she not only pointed out that GLBX is a very integral part of today’s business networking but announced also that 2013 will be “The Year of the Neighbor” and in keeping with this vision, 2013 will bring many expansive and business-building activities. Guests enjoyed a fabulous catering from the Riverside Hotel (Thanks Heiko Dobrikow & Mark Semple!) and went home with an awesome goodie bag

from close and far. If you haven’t been on Las Olas Boulevard and the Riverside Hotel in a while, you should. Not only does it feel great to see the rainbow flag flying high and proud right on Las Olas Boulevard, but their food and service are great. (FYI - Having guests in town? The hotel offers a specific LGBT rack rate and more things are going to come - Stay tuned!) GLBX was and is an integral part that the LGBT community has a strong visibility on Las Olas Boulevard (again).

What else happened in 2012?

GLBX delivered 21 successful networking events in the form of business-after-hours and luncheons in various local businesses such as some of our members’ professional offices, hotels, and restaurants. GLBX won the 2012 SFGN Award in the category “Best Business Networking Group.” This annual award is given by their readership. Thank you to all of you who voted for GLBX! GLBX facilitated that various businesses are committing themselves to serve and cater more to the LGBT community. The most visible member was certainly the famous Riverside Hotel, on Las Olas Boulevard.

GLBX re-organized & re-structured its leads group, which is a “members only” event and happens every first and third Tuesday every month. They continue to

January 30, 2013 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

17

The Q-word, the N-word, and the F-word

By Brian McNaught

S

ome high school and college-age students want to be called “queer,” despite the feelings of many older gay men and lesbians who find the word offensive.

Additionally, they’d like the LGBT acronym to be expanded to LGBTQIA. The newest letters stand for “queer” and/ or “questioning,” “intersex,” and “allies.”

Intersex people don’t see themselves as transgender, just as many lesbians don’t see themselves as “gay.” Nor do bisexuals like the G or L words. Many young people also like the terms “gender-queer” and “bigender.”

Though I strongly caution against selfdescribing as “queer” in today’s corporate world, if you see LGB as a white, gay, male acronym, and you’re wanting to name yourself outside of those categories, why shouldn’t you?

My generation did. At one time we were called inverts.

Without self-destructing, national movement organizations in my lifetime have survived changing their names and/or their focus from “homophile” to “gay,” to “gay and lesbian,” to “gay, lesbian, and bisexual,” and then to “lesbian (ladies first), gay, bisexual, and transgender.”

We’ve come to refer to ourselves in shorthand as “LGBT,” which I’ve always felt was unhelpful, because most heterosexuals don’t know what the letters stand for, and no one comes out by saying, “Mom and Dad, I’m an LGBT.” But it looks as if LGBT is here to stay, so, what’s wrong with adding a few more letters? If heterosexuals and older homosexuals are confused by the new acronym LGBTQIA, our job is to educate them to what the new letters mean, and why they needed to be added.

But we have to educate others with patience and a good sense of humor.

Insisting on political correctness with our own language, and with that of others,

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18

tends to make us overly zealous, and can cause unnecessary stress. I’ve wasted a lot of energy in my life arguing against gay men referring to themselves with effeminate names like “fairy,” with national leaders using the acronyms “LGBT” in a speech, or with professors using the word “queer” in the title of their college course.

Oversensitivity on the part of some gay people has led other people, including straight journalists, to use the phrase, “the F-word” rather than saying or writing the word “faggot.”

They agree that if it’s not okay to say “nigger,” why should it be okay to say “faggot?” I’ve come to think that the whole fear of words is nonsensical.

There’s a lot of controversy today about the film Django Unchained.

The word “nigger” is uttered over one hundred times. Spike Lee refuses to see the film. When a white journalist asked one of the film’s black stars, Samuel Jackson, what he thought about “the use of the N-word,” Jackson refused to answer his question unless the reporter actually said the word “nigger,” which the writer refused to do.

So, Jackson, who thinks the controversy is silly, wouldn’t answer his question.

I’ve never been able to get my arms around the phrase, “the N-word.” Is there any other word in the English language that we’re not allowed to utter? Words are just sounds that communicate images.

Sometimes, the images are unpleasant or disturbing, like those which come up for me with the words “Pope Benedict XVI.” But, I don’t want others to protect my feelings by using the phrase “the PBS-words.” Say his name, please, despite the awful thoughts that come to mind.

I try to accommodate people and groups with the names and words they prefer.

For instance, some family members have changed their first names to something more comfortable for them, such as going from Tommy to Tom, or Peggy to Maggie.

That’s an easy accommodation.

I usually try to ask what name people would like to be called by, because I tend to shorten everyone’s first name as an indication of affection. That has backfired. I recall the response from one woman whom I called “Deb” at our first meeting. She looked at me with exasperation, and said slowly, and emphatically, “My name is De-bor-ah.”

Her manner of telling me this scared rather than educated me, so I started avoiding her.

Because I don’t want other people to avoid me, I try to educate them about preferred language with patience and good humor.

If you tell me, “Please don’t ever say the word ‘nigger’ in front of me, regardless of the context,” I will do whatever makes you comfortable. But I’m not going to assume that everyone feels the same as you. It’s just a word. When I say it, there is no malice intended. I need to keep that in mind about others when they say the words “queer” and “faggot.”

If a younger gay person uses the word “queer” in front of me, he or she isn’t doing

Photo courtesey of pinguino k

McNaught’s Notes

Samuel L Jackson

it with ill will. I have had bad experiences with the word, such as when the guidance counselor of my high school said to my senior class, “You can come in and tell me you’ve screwed a chick, and we’ll talk, but if you tell me you’re queer, I’ll kick you out of my office.” The LGBTQIA person using the term “queer” today doesn’t know about my bad experience, and even if he or she did, they still have the right to name themselves as they wish.

It’s best if we keep it simple. Tell me what to call you, and I will. Tell me what not to call you, and I won’t. I’ll try to do the same for you. But let’s not be afraid to say words such as “nigger,” “queer,” or “faggot” if no offense is intended. They’re just words, or letters in an acronym. If we give them too much importance, we create our own misery.

Brian McNaught was named “the godfather of gay diversity training” by The New York Times. He works with corporate executives globally, is the author of six books, and is featured in seven educational DVDs. He and his spouse Ray Struble divide their year between Ft. Lauderdale and Provincetown.

Visit Brian-McNaught.com for more information.

January 30, 2013 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

All We Are Saying Is: ‘Give Pot a Chance’

M

ore and more prudent politicians, thoughtful columnists, and fiscally responsible legislators are rethinking outdated marijuana laws. It is long overdue, and thoroughly welcome.

The mainstream view is to now decriminalize marijuana entirely, or allow for its distribution to adults legally. In fact, more than 70 percent of Americans support, at the very least, legalizing medical marijuana.

Last year, citizens both in Colorado and the state of Washington voted for legalization. It is amazing what can happen when you close the curtain in that voting booth. We are developing a national recognition that the ‘drug war’ has been a failure.

For decades, politicians running on ‘law and order’ campaigns were afraid to speak out about unjust drug laws, for fear of being perceived as ‘soft on crime.’ Consequently, they supported sending people to the joint for smoking joints. Florida is one of the more archaic states. Just a little more than a half an ounce of marijuana is still a felony, which can cost you not just your freedom, but expose you to losing a job, college scholarships and having your car forfeited.

That is ludicrous.

In Florida this year, though, medical marijuana initiatives will be presented to the state legislature for consideration. Last week, in the Sun Sentinel, even conservative columnist Kingsley Guy suggested our nation’s drug laws be reconsidered.

Leonard Pitts did so last year in the Herald.

Encouraging and responsible voices for decriminalization are emerging everywhere.

Statistics for national marijuana arrests are kept by the FBI. In its last report, for 2011, 757,969 arrests for marijuana were reported nationwide- and over 663,000 of them were for simple possession. But in progressive states, where dispensaries are allowed and decriminalization has been advanced, arrests are down and society is not compromised. The trains still run on time and the world has not crumbled.

Three decades of harsh drug laws have done little more than institutionalize racism into our justice system. Statistically, minorities have always been incarcerated at a drastically higher rate than their Caucasian counterparts. But if you think Americans love guns, we love jails more. In fact, we put people in jail at 5 to 10 times the rate of most countries in the world, including all the democracies in Western Europe. But locking

By Norm Kent people up for smoking a joint is asinine, and must come to an end.

Last week, an appellate court stupidly refused to reschedule marijuana, maintaining its classification as a harmful drug with no respected medical uses. The decision is foreign to logic and common sense, and will be used as a tool for continued repression and arrest. It should be vaporized. Forty years ago, a Presidential commission recommended decriminalizing marijuana. Instead, our nation launched an unconscionable drug war against innocent citizens that has inexcusably compromised our civil liberties.

None of this makes any sense in terms of public safety, health or fiscal policy.

Federal crackdowns have not curtailed the ever-growing and omnipresent trade in marijuana. However, legalizing marijuana, or even allowing for medical dispensaries, will enhance urban and rural tax bases, and provide medical marijuana to those who need it. The federal government should defer to those states now doing so, allowing them a chance to see if this new approach won’t work successfully. If it can save lives, cut prison costs, generate tax revenues, and expand our essential freedoms, we ought to ‘give pot a chance.’

It is time for courageous community leaders and politicians to speak out against unjust marijuana laws, especially since most of them have smoked pot themselves. And lookthey have grown up to become respected realtors, entrepreneurs and even educators. Let’s get real about pot. If you are a member of a local city commission, you should be directing your police agency to make pot arrests their lowest priority.

If Republicans really want to espouse core values such as individual liberty and states’ rights, along with economic opportunity, they should join in the emerging common sense approach to decriminalizing marijuana.

If Democrats want to stand up for equality for all classes of citizens, and ending social

January 30, 2013 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

injustice, they should also be proposing laws for responsible adult use of marijuana.

The decriminalization and legalization of marijuana is and has always been a cultural and political struggle.

The laws against public legal consumption were never in the public interest. They have been tools to silence dissidents, minorities, and young people living outside the mainstream.

The federal government has always been the bully. Well, it is time we started passing antibullying laws.

The gay community should be especially concerned as well.

Informal polling in the LGBT community shows not only 80 percent support decriminalization, but routine use and social acceptance, from age 22 to 82. In case you think it can’t happen here, less than a month ago in Wilton Manors a 75-year-old retired college professor was taken to jail for smoking a joint in his living room. The laws would be a joke if they did not fashion such an injustice.

Gay men and women should actively join in the movement for marijuana legalization.

You ought to be able to put into your body what you want, whether it’s a partner’s

Photo courtesey of Torben Hansen

THE SFGN EDITORIAL

private part or a joint you rolled. In the end, there is a sphere of civil liberties beyond government control. That is the fundamental premise of our constitution, and it is one we should always fight for. It is not about the pot. It is about your right to choose. As gay men and women, we should always choose free choice as our governor.

Norm Kent serves on the national board of directors of the National Organization for the Reform of Marijuana Laws. For more information, visit www.norml.com.

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January 30, 2013 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

January 30, 2013 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

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CompassPoints… biweekly column from compass in lake worth

National Black HIV/AIDS Awareness Day

O

By Marsharee Chronicle, Health Services Director

bserved each year on February 7, National Black HIV/AIDS Awareness Day (NBHAAD) is a day to promote HIV testing and raise awareness of the impact of HIV/AIDS in the Black community—one of the communities hardest hit by the disease. This year’s NBHAAD theme, “I am my brother/sister’s keeper: Fight HIV/AIDS,” reminds us that to effectuate change in any movement, we must work together for the collective good and sometimes this work requires us to put up a good fight.

The spirit of this theme is reflected in the 2013 Academy Award nominated documentary film, “How to Survive a Plague” about the history of AIDS activism in the 1980s and ‘90s. Nominated for an Academy Award for Best Documentary Feature, the film shows how two groups, ACT UP and Total Action Group (TAG), helped shape the country’s response to the AIDS crisis.

During a time of little hope, this diverse group of men and women put all they had on the line to make sure that the nation listened and responded to their need for a national treatment strategy for the disease. Armed with their voices and fueled by their anger and passions, they stormed government buildings, pharmaceutical companies, political events, and churches chanting the message “Act up, Fight Back, Fight AIDS.” They fought hard and people listened. Sadly, many of these heroes died without getting to see the fruits of their labor—advances in the treatment of the disease that allows people living with HIV/ AIDS to live longer lives.

Despite the gains made as a result of such bold, in-your-face activism, the struggle continues and certain communities are more adversely affected than others. More than any other racial/ethnic minority group, the Black community, and Black gay men in particular, continue to be disproportionately affected by this disease. In young, Black gay men, the numbers are especially staggering with approximately 1 in 4 new HIV infections occurring among this group according to the CDC. Several factors drive this disparity and it is time for us to not just talk about it

22

but to also take action. While some are seeing the possibilities of an AIDS free generation, we cannot get there until we address these things. The stigma of HIV coupled with homophobia, is one of those factors that continues to contribute to the slow response to addressing the HIV in the Black community. Until we can have real conversations about the issues that divide us, we will continue to lose this battle.

Furthermore, the absence of one clear, unifying leader in this movement continues to hinder any effective strategy to combat the problem.

It is time for us to stop looking for that one person to organize us. The late anthropologist Margaret Meade is credited with saying, “Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, concerned citizens can change the world. Indeed it is the only thing that ever has.”

Whether it starts with a small group or a large group, it is important that we continue the work started by groups like ACT UP and TAG so that the stories and lessons are not forgotten. Those of us who have the privilege of learning about these stories also have a responsibility to carry on the legacy, because as the saying goes, “those who do not learn from their history are doomed to repeat it.”

This year, for NBHAAD, think about what you can do to Act Up. Fight Back. Fight AIDS. Marsharee Chronicle is Compass’ Health Services Director and can be reached at marsharee@compassglcc.com Compass will be hosting activities throughout the day and showing the film”How to Survive a Plague” on February 7th.

January 30, 2013 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

FEATURE

SFGN Celebrates Black History Month

Alvin Ailey Choreographer

Alice Walker

Bill Jones

Author and Feminist

Dancer and choreographer

1/5/1931 - 12/1/1989

2/9/1944 -

2/15/1952 -

“I am trying to show the world that we are all human beings and that color is not important. What is important is the quality of our work.”

“The truest and most enduring impulse I have is simply to write.”.”

“Living and dying is not the big issue. The big issue is what you’re going to do with your time while you are here.”

A

lvin Ailey Jr. was an internationally acclaimed dancer and choreographer. He founded the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater, a dance company hailed as an ambassador of American culture. Ailey formed a multiracial company and revolutionized dance, incorporating elements of ballet and jazz, along with modern and African dance, into his work.

Ailey grew up in Rogers, Texas, the son of a young, struggling single mother. His father abandoned the family when Ailey was six months old. In 1941, the family moved to Los Angeles, where Ailey met Lester Horton, who ran the first multiracial dance school.

Horton took Ailey under his wing, teaching him a variety of dance styles and techniques. In 1953, Ailey joined Horton’s company. Later that year, he was named artistic director.

In 1954, Ailey made his Broadway debut dancing in “House of Flowers.” He also performed in “Sing, Man, Sing” with Harry Belafonte and in “Jamaica” with Lena Horne.

In 1957, Ailey established the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater. The company’s premiere performance, “Blues Suite”—a riveting work reflecting the AfricanAmerican emotional experience—defined Ailey’s theatrical and eclectic style.

A prolific choreographer, Ailey created 79 original works for his company.

“Revelations” (1960), recognized as his signature piece, is touted as the most-watched work of modern dance. “Cry” (1971), one of Ailey’s most successful works, was dedicated to his mother and AfricanAmerican women.

In 1979, Ailey received the Springarn Medal for outstanding achievement from the NAACP. In 1988, he was recognized with a Kennedy Center Honors Award.

Ailey died at age 58 from complications of AIDS. In his memory, a section of West 61st Street in New York was named “Alvin Ailey Way.”

January 30, 2013 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

A

lice Walker is an award-winning writer, activist and self-proclaimed “Womanist”—a term she coined in her book “In Search of Our Mother’s Gardens” (1974) to describe black feminists. The voices she brings to life in her novels, short stories and poems helped educate and inspire readers.

Walker was raised in Eatonton, Georgia, during segregation. She was the youngest of eight children born to poor sharecroppers.

Walker received her B.A. from Sarah Lawrence College in 1965. She moved back to the South to pursue civil rights work and met Mel Leventhal. Walker and Leventhal, a Jewish civil rights lawyer, were the first interracial couple to be legally married in Mississippi.

Walker had her only child during the marriage. The couple divorced in 1976.

Walker began teaching at Wellesley College in 1972. Her course, dedicated to the study of AfricanAmerican women writers, was the first of its kind.

Her most famous novel, “The Color Purple” (1983), won a National Book Award and made Walker the first African-American woman to receive a Pulitzer Prize for Fiction. In 1985, the novel was made into a movie directed by Steven Spielberg, starring Oprah Winfrey, Whoopi Goldberg and Danny Glover. The film earned 11 Oscar nominations. In 2005, “The Color Purple” was adapted as a Broadway musical, with Winfrey as the lead financial backer.

Walker’s awards include a Guggenheim Foundation Grant, an American Book Award, a Lillian Smith Award and an O’Henry Award. She was inducted into the Georgia Writer’s Hall of Fame and the California Hall of Fame. In 1997, Walker was named Humanist of the Year by the American Humanist Association.

These profiles are used with permission from the LGBT History Month Project. Visit www. lgbthistorymonth.com for more information.

B

ill T. Jones is a dancer and avant-garde choreographer who has created masterpieces about race, sexuality, life and loss. He is known for his extraordinary ability to translate human emotion and experience into the language of dance and theater.

The 10th of 12 children, William Tass Jones was born in Florida, the son of migrant farm workers, and raised in Wayland, New York. As one of the only blacks at his public school, Jones believes the experience of living by white norms at school and black norms at home encouraged his self-expression.

Jones attended the State University of New York, where he studied classical ballet and modern dance. It was there that he met his lover of 17 years, Arnie Zane.

The two danced and choreographed together. As an openly gay interracial couple they pushed the envelope and challenged their audiences’ preconceived notions about gender, race and sexuality. In 1982, they cofounded the Bill T. Jones/Arnie Zane Dance Company.

In 1986, Zane was diagnosed with AIDS, which claimed his life two years later. Watching his life partner die gave Jones a new sense of passion and urgency.

In his 1994 piece “Still/Here,” Jones took the experiences of people living with life-threatening illnesses and transformed them into a beautiful piece about life and confronting death. HIV-positive himself, Jones wanted to teach those living under the constant threat of death how to express themselves through movement. Jones’s work also draws from existing material.

Jones has won many awards, including a Tony Award, the Samuel H. Scripps American Dance Festival Award for Lifetime Achievement and a Harlem Renaissance Award. In 2007, he was inducted into the Hall of Fame of the National Museum of Dance. He is the recipient of five honorary doctorates.

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Cover Story

Bette Midler:

The Showgirl Goes On

By Chris Azzopardi

‘Miss M’ talks boys in heels, bullying & ‘bittersweet’ bathhouse days

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M

ore than 30 years have passed since Bette Midler made her screen debut as a rocker with a selfdestructive drug habit. The film, 1979’s “The Rose,” turned the Hawaii native’s dreams, and her nights performing for half-naked gay men at a New York City bathhouse, into a legendary and undeniably influential career in music – the title song is one of her biggest hits – and in film.

Later roles would include parts in “Beaches,” “Hocus Pocus” and “The First Wives Club,” all of which go down as gay cult classics. A star of the stage, screen and recording studio, with numerous Grammys, Golden Globes and Emmys to her name – even the moniker “The Divine Miss M” doesn’t quite do her justice.

But now that the curtain’s closed on her two-year Las Vegas spectacle – “The Showgirl Must Go On” wrapped in 2010 – she returns as a leading lady in her first major picture in more than a decade. In “Parental Guidance,” the 67-year-old plays a grandparent alongside Billy Crystal, who both “try” to navigate modern-day parenting conundrums when they’re stuck watching their daughter’s three kids.

In this chat with Midler, she talked about “Parental Guidance” – including the film’s stance on bullying – and the “bittersweet” beginning of her career.

January 30, 2013 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

Q: You share some similarities with your

character, Diane Decker, in “Parental Guidance”. One thing I’d like to believe you don’t have in common with her, though, is when one of the kids dresses up as a girl. You would have let that boy wear those high heels, wouldn’t you have?

A: I haven’t seen it. I wasn’t in that scene.

Q: The part where you and Billy Crystal won’t let the youngest boy go to school in those heels – that wasn’t you?

A: (Laughs) Oh, yes – that’s right.

“

“

I remember that I had a lot of friends in the gay world.

Unfortunately, a lot of those people are gone, and I think about them often. They would’ve just been hitting their stride at this point. It’s very bittersweet.

know? Sometimes children who are a little bit different are not considered – and they have to be! Everybody has to be considered and treated fairly. It’s just unacceptable.

Q: You must’ve appreciated that “Parental Guidance” spotlighted that issue, right?

A: Oh, you know, Billy’s a guy with a pretty big heart, and he’s a fair-minded guy and I’m sure that was something he never even thought of “not” putting in. Of course he’d be a fan of doing the right thing.

Q: Your career started in the ’70s when you performed with Barry Manilow at the Continental Baths in Manhattan, where you got your nickname “Bathhouse Bette.” Do you have any good stories or memories from those days?

A: To tell you the truth, it’s in the dim, dark recess of time. I remember I had a wonderful time. I remember I made a great mark. I remember that I had a lot of friends in the gay world. I mean, I remember friends more than I remember instances. Unfortunately, a lot of those people are gone, and I think about them often. They would’ve just been hitting their stride at this point. It’s very bittersweet.

Q: You mention having lots of gay friends then, but I’m sure there’s no shortage of them in your life now.

A: Of course I have a lot of gay friends. I’m in show business!

Q: Do you still keep in touch with anyone from those bathhouse days?

A: Actually, most of them have passed. I hear from a couple of people. My old assistant from those days is still in my life, and so is my costumer. We’re still in touch and I see a couple of the girls, The Harlots, from time to time. But honestly, it’s a big, big life and a big world, and people go off on their own and do what they do. Everyone tries to do the best they can.

I will say that in the old days when all of this was all so underground, the excitement in the gay community now about gay marriage and coming above the ground, older people (must) think, “Wow, look how far the gay community has come by sticking together and toughing it out.” You know, gay marriage, being able to adopt children, being part of the mainstream as opposed to always being sub rosa – it must be so fascinating and such a strong validation.

Q: Who came up with the singing bits Q: You would have let him wear those, in the film? You and Billy?

Q: You’ve really seen the evolution of right?

A: It was his idea. We had been singing to the the gay rights movement.

A: What are you trying to get at? kids to keep them entertained for a week or A: I certainly have.

We had a big tornado scare and everyone Q: That you’re a gay icon. I could see two. was in the basement at one time, so we were Q: You were at the forefront of it when you being OK with him in heels. entertaining kids. It just sort of happened you got your start, so where do you A: I sort of try to avoid encouraging kids to that we werethesinging these doo-wop novelty be hustlers.

Q: The movie also takes a stand against bullying. It suggests standing up for yourself and fighting back. Is that what you would tell a kid? What would your advice be?

A: I would tell them to tell someone immediately. Tell a grown-up. Tell an older person immediately that this is happening.

Say, “Please help me stop this.” You shouldn’t keep it a secret. I would encourage a child not to keep it a secret and to get help as quick as they can, and if they don’t get help in one place, try to get help in another place.

It’s completely unacceptable. It’s a big country and there are so many different kinds of people in this country now – and everybody doesn’t raise their kids the right way, you

songs, and the kids seemed to like them. They had never heard any of this stuff before, so it just sort of fell into place and seemed like a fun addition to the movie.

Q: Which songs were you singing?

A: “Get a Job,” “Yakety Yak” and “Poison

Ivy” – the old Leiber and Stoller catalog. Both of us are around the same age, so that’s our childhood music. We’re very steeped in it.

It was cool to see Marc Shaiman’s name on the project too, because you’ve worked together before. What was it like having him work on “Parental Guidance,” as well?

He’s a dear friend of Billy’s and a dear friend of mine, so when they needed someone to score the picture, Billy brought him up because he has such a great sense of humor.

January 30, 2013 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

think – or where do you hope – the gay movement is headed?

A: I’m not gay so it’s kind of hard for me to answer that question. I watch and I’m fascinated and I’m interested. And I’m enthusiastic. I’m all those things. I try to help where I can. I just think it’s just fantastic for the gay community. Just fantastic. And I know they’re happy. I know there’s a lot of joy in the community. I know there are a lot of people who are very, very excited about the change that all this acceptance has given them. I know it’s a real thrill. At the same time, there’s also the part that was exciting because there was nothing that they were allowed to do. There was all this stuff about doing things under the radar that was also exciting in a whole other way. So it’s interesting to watch. Very interesting to watch. And I’m happy for those who are happy. I really am.

Q: Have you heard of this documentary that Malcolm Ingram is working on about the Continental Baths that you performed at? I read that he was trying to get you involved.

A: No, I have not. This is the first I’ve heard of it.

Q: Where do you stand on the new wave of gay icons? Do you follow them?

A: No, I don’t. I have to say I don’t. I think

that the gay community has always liked a certain type, and there are plenty of those around. But no, I don’t follow it. I do my work; I keep my head down. I have my family, and I do – it’s all fascinating and it’s all wonderful, and it’s a big river of life and people get on on one bank and wind up in another place. There are new people all the time. Paul Simon said it best when he said, “Every generation throws a hero up the pop charts.” So I’m used to the idea that people come and go, and it’s always fun to watch. It makes life glittery and fun.

And that’s what we’re looking for.

Q:

But Adele is now considered a gay icon, and I’ve heard you’re a fan of hers.

A: I do love Adele. I adore Adele. I think she’s a really good singer and a terrific songwriter.

Her voice is such a beautiful voice. And she’s funny and she’s warm and she’s all the things you want a performer to be. I mean, outside of who her fan base is, I think just as a human being she stands out. I’m really happy that she’s around. I’m really happy that she’s made it and that people adore her. She’s going to have a long, long career.

Q:

Now that you’ve made your screen return, will we be seeing more of you soon? A new studio album? Maybe a tour?

A: You know, I’m listening to music. Every day I pick something out of the pot to listen to. I do keep very active with that part – in the songwriting world – and I’m studying the guitar just because I love music. So I’m very interested in music just as an art form, not necessarily to have records or to have hits or anything – just to make music. That’s never left me. I’ve always loved that and I’ve always loved people who are actual musicians. I love the singers and the musicians, too. So I’m always interested in what people have to express and the way in which they choose to express what they have to say. So that part of me – the art part – will never leave. I do keep busy with that.

Q: But you know how much we’d love to hear a new album, right?

A: Oh, you’re very kind. I’ll do my best to deliver it … before the afternoon is up!

Chris Azzopardi is the editor of Q Syndicate, the international LGBT wire service. Reach him via his website at www.chris-azzopardi.com.

25

TRAVEL

OUT DESTINATION: ROAD TRIP

By Joey Amato

I

n the past year, I’ve traveled around the country, everywhere from Fort Lauderdale to Seattle, Chicago to St. Louis, but the one thing I’ve never done before is go on a road trip. Well folks, it’s time. Pack your bags, fuel up your tank and get ready to head out on the most exciting gay adventures you can imagine…well kinda!

I decided to take a ride on Interstate 40 from Nashville to Las Vegas and stop in a variety of cities along the way. Driving through Memphis, I recalled my time at the Peabody Hotel and sipping cocktails on Beale Street as I crossed the mighty Mississippi River into Arkansas.

I wasn’t planning on stopping in Arkansas, but as I was Googling and driving (no, I do not encourage that), I discovered that Fort Smith, Arkansas had a small gay scene so I decided to check it out. It’s not Fort Lauderdale or San Francisco, but there were a few gay bars, most notably, Club Kinkead’s. I actually met a really cool guy who was willing to show me the highlights of the city which included a lookout point, owned by the military set high upon a hilltop overlooking Fort Smith.

Not too far away are the towns of Fayetteville and Hot Springs, two destinations better known for vibrant gay nightlife, but unfortunately they were located too far off I-40, so I didn’t have the chance to visit them.

The next day, I packed up my suitcase and headed back out on the open road, next stop, Oklahoma City. OKC as the locals call it, is not a destination one would initially think would be very gay friendly, however after doing a bit of research, I actually found a gay resort fairly close to the interstate.

Habana Inn is the largest gay resort in the Southwest and offers visitors 170 hotel rooms, two swimming pools, two nightclubs, a restaurant, piano bar, and gift shop, all conveniently located within the same complex. After checking into my room, I decided to go for dinner at Gushers, the hotel’s restaurant. I opted for a soup and salad combo, however the restaurant is known for their prime rib dinner, which has been called the best in the city.

After speaking with some members of the staff and other patrons, I was pleasantly surprised by the array of bars, clubs and

26

other attractions within Oklahoma City, including a gay-owned and operated coffee house and community center.

The nightlife options in and around Habana Inn are plentiful, from the venues on property to nearly half-dozen other establishments located within walking distance.

My first stop was a small neighborhood bar called The Boom,

attractions in Amarillo. Cadillac Ranch is a public art installation and sculpture park which was created in 1974 by Chip Lord, Hudson Marquez and Doug Michels, and consists of junk Cadillac automobiles, representing a number of evolutions of the car line most notably the birth and death of the defining feature of mid twentieth century Cadillac’s, the tailfins.

The

Oklahoma City Skyline

Cadillac Ranch

which served up inexpensive cocktails and provided a welcoming environment.

Directly across the street are Angles, Tramps and Phoenix Rising. But if you choose to stay at the hotel, I suggest visiting The Copa for dancing and great drag performances or Finishline if you are looking to kick off your boots and enjoy some beers and country music.

Further on up the road is Amarillo, located in the heart of the Texas Panhandle. Since I did a little too much partying in OKC the night before, I decided to visit some cultural

Zarkana

automobiles, which were produced between 1949 and 1963, are all half-buried nose-first in the ground, at an angle corresponding to that of the Great Pyramid of Giza in Egypt.

Everything is bigger in Texas and visitors to Amarillo must stop at The Big Texan.

The iconic restaurant, located along the historic Route 66, is a legend within its own right. The restaurant and lodging complex has been featured on major cable television networks and has even been the target of Adam Richman’s “Man vs. Food” for its 72-ounce steak challenge.

A few hours further west is Albuquerque, New Mexico. The Nob Hill neighborhood, located on the old Route 66 site, is the local gayborhood. There you will find a strip of gay clubs and bars, perfect for dancing, barhopping or people watching.

Although listed as a private club, the Albuquerque Social Club is a fun, friendly venue with live DJ’s and regularly scheduled drag shows. Guests can enjoy a game of pool, while sipping on some of the cheapest cocktails in town.

Not too far away is Sidewinders, Albuquerque’s best dance bar. Serving the LGBT community for two decades, Sidewinders features one of the state’s largest dance floors. The venue also offers nightly entertainment including karaoke, pool tournaments and dance lessons.

Last stop on my road trip is Las Vegas.

On previous visits, I stayed at luxurious hotels on the strip, however this time I wanted to experience something different, so I chose the wonderful Blue Moon Hotel.

The boutique property boasts 45 rooms and suites and is a clothing optional hotel complete with a Jacuzzi grotto, perfect for the cool Vegas nights.

My two-room suite was beautifully appointed with luxurious linens, a modern seating area, walk-in closet and unobstructed views of the pool and sun deck.

Blue Moon also features a full steam room, video room, complimentary continental breakfast and Wi-Fi in addition to a spa, which offers a variety of skin care and waxing treatments.

The atmosphere at Blue Moon is vibrant and fun, however if you are looking to hit up a show on the strip, I recommend Cirque du Soleil’s Zarkana, performing at the Aria Resort & Casino. Zarkana has been described as an “acrobatic rock experience that blends circus arts with the surreal to create a world where physical virtuosity rubs shoulders with the strange.”

The show was the perfect way to end a fabulous trip across America, one, which I will surely never forget. Be sure to keep a look out for a new all-male revue show named “Men of the Strip”, opening in Vegas, later this year.

January 30, 2013 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

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27

FEATURE

Ending AIDS

By Sean McShee

S

uddenly, people have begun to talk seriously about ending the global HIV epidemic.

Medical breakthroughs have changed the global HIV landscape. These new developments include the following: Microbicides, treatment as prevention, PrEP, voluntary male circumcision, and preventing mother-to-child transmission.

These new developments can neither stand alone nor replace condom usage.

Researchers and providers now favor mixing these new developments with each other, and with condoms. As condoms have low cost and multiple uses, they will remain a key component of HIV prevention for a long time. Condoms not only prevent transmitting HIV, but they also prevent transmitting syphilis, gonorrhea, chlamydia, and significantly reduce the risk for HPV and herpes.

Recent Developments

Microbicides are chemical mixtures applied vaginally or anally to kill the virus before it enters the body. When researchers announced the results of the first successful microbicide study at the Vienna AIDS conference, the audience gave the results a standing ovation. It should be possible to develop microbicidal mixtures that could also prevent transmitting other STIs as well as HIV.

Preventing Mother-to-Child Transmission occurs when a pregnant

HIV-positive woman takes AntiRetroviral Therapy (ART, the class of drugs that changed HIV from a fatal disease to a manageable one) to make her viral load undetectable and to prevent transmitting HIV to her child. Last year in Broward, only 2 babies were born with HIV. Globally, 570,000 children became newly infected with HIV in 2003. Eight years later that number had decreased to 330,000 children newly infected with HIV, a 42 percent decrease.

If treatment could prevent a HIV positive pregnant woman from passing the virus to her children, then a positive person with an undetectable viral load might not transmit the virus to their sexual partners.

One study (HPTN052) that examined this supposition, now called “treatment as prevention”, found that an undetectable viral load reduced HIV transmission in mixed HIV status couples by 96 percent.

28

This development, however, has raised ethical concerns about treating positive people to protect negative people rather than to improve their own health.

Among all these developments, the most controversial has been PreExposure Prophylaxis (PrEP), providing ART to HIV negatives to prevent them from becoming infected. As the number of negative people far exceeds the number of positive people, PrEP would be too expensive as a prevention tool for all those who are negative.

While we know what happens to positive people when they lack access to ART, we have no idea how long-term use of ART will affect negative people. ART involves new and powerful drugs that affect basic biologic processes. Other people have proposed giving PrEP to people in abusive relationships to give the abused partner more control. This promises to be a major controversy over the next few years and we had all better become familiar with it.

Voluntary male circumcision has

been shown to be effective in reducing female-to-male vaginal transmission.

No evidence currently shows it to be effective for reducing anal transmission.

It will have a greater impact in those areas with high rates of male-female sexual transmission and low rates of circumcision than those areas with low rates of male-female sexual transmission and high rates of circumcision. As most gay/bi men have no doubt literally observed, most males in the U.S. have been circumcised. In addition, most HIV infections in the U.S. occur through male/ male anal intercourse. Consequently, this development will have minimal effect in the U.S. As a result of these breakthroughs, people and organizations are now developing coherent plans to end the HIV epidemic.

Recent Global Breakthroughs in Global HIV Treatment and Prevention 10% of pregnant HIV positive women on Anti-Retroviral Therapy (ART).

New HIV infections drop below 3 million for the first time since 1993 .

Since then new infections have continually decreased.

2004 12% of pregnant HIV positive women on ART. AIDS deaths peak at 2.2 2005 million and have continued to decline since then.

15% of pregnant HIV positive women on ART. Voluntary Male Circumcifound to reduce female-to-male HIV transmission by 60%. World 2006 sion Health Organization issues guidelines on ART and Preventing Mother to Child Transmission.

2007 33% of pregnant HIV positive women on ART. 2008 45% of pregnant HIV positive women on ART .

WHO changes guidelines for initiation of ART to start treatment earlier.

2009 Thai vaccine study show promise, first vaccine study to do so.

2010

48% of pregnant HIV positive women on ART. Multi-country trial finds daily oral PrEP reduces risk of HIV infection in men who have sex with men and transwomen.

2011

Treatment as Prevention: HPTN052 shows 96% transmission reduction in mixed status couples. For the first time domestic contributions by low and middle income countries accounted for majority of resources available in 2011.

Sources: http://www.avac.org/ht/a, GetDocumentAction/i/44984, http://www.avac.org/ht/a, GetDocumentAction/i/47321, www.avac.org, www./amfar.org, www.cdc.gov

Sources:

http://aidsaccountability.org Main portal for action agenda http://endingaids.org/ Quarterly reports about the action agenda http://www.avac.org/ht/a/ GetDocumentAction/i/47321 The Action Agenda to End AIDS http://www.avac.org/ht/a/ GetDocumentAction/i/44984 www.avac.org www.amfar.org

bit.ly/WlSFJA

January 30, 2013 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

January 30, 2013 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

29

FEATURE

A Survivor’s Tale of Twelve Tins

Donna Mae DePola shares her heartbreaking story of abuse and recovery

By Donald Cavanaugh

Photos courtesy Donna Mae DePola

“You mean you don’t have sex with your she was able to prove to the world and to father?” asked Donna Mae DePola of some herself that her father had done these things childhood friends. Fortunately for her, they and no one had protected her.

Understandably, the constant sexual all laughed and she was able to cover it up, abuse from such an but as she pointed out, “I early age took its just thought it was normal toll in the form of for fathers to have sex the addictions she with their children.” acquired to ease her “And why not?” she childhood pain. asked. “If that’s what your “I started using father teaches you in the drugs around age 9,” guise of loving parent, she said.

“They did how do you know any what I needed.

They better?” masked the pain of And that was what all that trauma.

We her father taught her know why many practically every day of people abuse drugs. her life under his roof They seem to work – from the time she was five if only for a little bit.” until she moved out at 17.

“When I finally Her father died in 1987. stopped using them Shortly after his death, I had to deal with she opened a stash he the traumas I was kept above a drop ceiling chemically blocking in their home. In addition from my awareness, Donna Mae Depola to guns and ammunition, ultimately to the there were twelve ‘reel-totune of a $4,000 a reel’ movie canisters. week habit.”

When she saw them, she suspected what “Even though I was using a lot of drugs, was on them, but didn’t know for sure until I was able to pass,” she said. “I was able to she could find an old fashioned projector. function, do my work, and people didn’t “It’s amazing that he was able to tape all know I was using anything.” this stuff,” said DePola. “That old movie Donna Mae DePola is in her early sixties. equipment was complex and needed a lot She is an out and open lesbian living and of light and space so it must have taken him working with the love-of-her-life, Dona Rae sometime to set it up and take it down. I Pagan. honestly don’t remember.”

“People often ask me, ‘Are you gay because When she finally found an old projector

Salon 51 Oakland Park

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you had trouble with men?’ If that were the case, millions of women would be gay.”

“I did not necessarily want to be ‘gay,’” she said. “I had no choice. I was born gay; it just took me until I was fifty-six to embrace it.”

DePola is a successful addictions specialist and a recognized, award-winning leader in the field of substance abuse and substance abuse education. She has worked in the field of addiction for over twenty-five years.

She is the founder of The Resource Training Center (TRTC) with five locations in New York. TRTC, the largest school of its kind, provides the training required to become a credentialed alcohol and substance abuse counselor (CASC) in New York. They also provide the mandated New York State Drinking Driver Program required of people convicted of driving under the influence.

DePola is also a survivor. She survived 12 years of sexual abuse; she survived over 25 years of addiction and wild living; she survived a drug-induced stay in a psychiatric hospital and she has survived breast cancer.

She is most recently an author. “I hadn’t intended to write an autobiography,” she said. “I thought no one would believe it anyway.”

But then there were the twelve tins: twelve testimonials to the abuse she suffered at her father’s hands; twelve reasons to write the book people now could believe.

Twelve Tins can be purchased in a self-published paperback for $32.00 at donnamaedepola.com. It is also available from the Kindle store on amazon.com.

Photos courtesy Donna Mae DePola

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Book Cover

January 30, 2013 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

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January 30, 2013 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

31

#LOVEWINS

let's celebrate the month of love , together!

Throughout February SFGN will be gathering photos of LGBT couples to showcase online and in print. Send them via Facebook, Twitter or email with the hashtag #LoveWins.

Remem ber to Like u on fac s ebook and Follo w us on tw itter !

/SouthFloridaGayNews @SOflagaynews email: Jason.Parsley@sfgn.comH

G

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S T R A I G H T

F A C

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January 30, 2013 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

January 30, 2013 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

33

SFGNITES T H E

By J.W. Arnold

THUR COMEDY

W E E K

O F

J A N U A R Y

1/31 SAT MUSIC

Y

3 1 - F E B R U A R Y

FAIR

ENTERTAINMENT

T

D

espite small budgets and limited runs Slow Burn Theatre in Boca Raton has been consistently praised for their high quality productions. Expect no less from their latest, “Side Show,” a musical based on the lives of Daisy and Violet Hilton, a circus act of Siamese twins who became famous stage performers in the 1930s.

Runs through Feb. 10, tickets are $20-$35. Visit SlowBurnTheatre.org.

Music Director Franz Welser-Most savors a moment in his performance with the Cleveland Orchestra at Miami’s Arsht Center.

2/1

Photo by justin Namon

THEATER

T

he latest production at Palm Beach Dramaworks, Lorraine Hansberry’s A Raisin in the Sun, opens tonight at the Don and Ann Brown Theatre, 201 Clematis St. in West Palm Beach. Considered by many to be one of the greatest plays of the 20th century, this tale about the life-changing consequences of an insurance payout to a poor South Side Chicago family in the ‘50s is based on events experienced

by Hansberry’s family. Seret Scott directs and the production features an all-star cast. The play runs through March 3 and all tickets are $55 at PalmBeachDramaworks.org.

THEATER

2/3

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Y

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SUN

his weekend, Parade Productions presents a series of gay playwright Michael McKeever’s most popular short plays, all bundled together as The Whole Caboodle. From Stephen Sondheim and Abe Lincoln to the Munchkins, ambivalent lesbians, and even Grant Wood’s American Gothic, nothing is sacred as the award-winning playwright takes apart these revered icons and reassembles them into a series of lovably flawed characters. The show plays Thursday through Saturday evenings at 7:30 p.m. and Sundays at 3 p.m. through Feb. 24 at the Studio Theatre at Mizner Park, 201 Plaza Real in Boca Raton. Tickets are $35 and $40 at ParadeProductions.com.

Runs through Feb. 10, tickets are $20-$35. Visit SlowBurnTheatre.org.

THEATER ou’ll be delighted and laughing throughout The Drowsy Chaperone, through Feb. 3 at the Lake Worth Playhouse. The show follows the story of a middle-aged musical theater fan, who’s explaining his favorite musical, the Drowsy Chaperone, while playing it on a record. Adding to the hilarity of the show are two gangsters, within the musical, both of which are disguised as pastry chefs, an alcoholic chaperone, a self proclaimed Latin lover and a wedding that’s on-again/ off-again. Tickets are $26 and $30. Visit www.

LakeWorthPlayhouse.org.

W W W . S F G N . C O M

T

he Cleveland Orchestra, in the second concert of its Miami residency, opens tonight in the Knight Concert Hall at the Arsht Center with virtuoso Garrick Ohlsson performing Beethoven’s Piano Concerto No. 4. Then, Maestro Franz Welser-Most will lead the orchestra in Hector Berlioz’s massive musical tale of an artist sent into desperation in an opium-induced delirium, Symphonie Fantastique. This program will also be presented on Friday, Feb. 1. Both performances begin at 8 p.m. and tickets start at $37 at ArshtCenter.org.

FRI

2 0 1 3

2/2

ou’ll be on the laugh track in comedian Judy Gold’s hilarious new show, “The Judy Show: My Life as a Sitcom,” Jan. 31 – Feb. 3 at the Kravis Center in West Palm Beach. This production, the two-time Emmy-winner’s homage to the family sitcoms of the ‘70s, ‘80s and ‘90s, takes real life events from Gold’s life and sets them on stage. Don’t touch that dial or you might miss the clever songs and skits based on some of TV’s most beloved families. Join the fun Thursday through Saturday nights at 7:30 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday at 1:30 p.m. Tickets are $34 at Kravis.org.

his is the last weekend to visit the South Florida Fair, which continues everyday through Feb. 3 at the West Palm Beach fair grounds.

Bring the whole family out for rides, animals, and some good old-fashioned funnel cakes. Tickets are $15 at the gate. Visit SouthFloridaFair.com.

6 ,

Photo by Roger Mastroianni

F O R

The cast of The Whole Caboodle have a little fun with playwright Michael McKeever, center.

January 30, 2013 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

MON FAIR

2/4 TUE MUSIC

T

he largest indoor antique show in the world happens right here in South Florida, Jan. 31 – Feb. 4, at the Miami Beach Convention Center. The Original Miami Beach Antique Show will feature hundreds of dealers, as well as free appraisal sessions and charity events to benefit Paws 4 You. Free workshops on decorating, jewelry, antique clocks and the basics of antique collecting will also be offered throughout the show. Tickets are $20 and good for the entire show. Hours are 12 – 8 p.m. , Thursday through Sunday, and 12 – 6 p.m. on Monday. Visit OriginalMiamiBeachAntiqueShow.com.

2/5

I

t’s a big week in South Florida for orchestral music fans. One of the world’s most acclaimed symphonies, the Philadelphia Orchestra takes the Dreyfoos Concert Hall stage at West Palm Beach’s Kravis Center for a program of music by the Romantics: Liszt, Beethoven and Brahms. Andre Watts will be featured in Beethoven’s “Emperor” Piano Concerto No. 5, one of the master’s greatest works, accompanied by Liszt’s Symphonic Poem No. 3 “Les Preludes” and the Symphony No. 1 by Brahms. The concert begins at 8 p.m. Tickets start at $35 at Kravis.org.

Check out the winners of this year’s SFGN’s “Best of Gay Friendly South Florida” here at

SFGN.com/BestOf2012

WED MUSIC

W

2/6

e all know “do-re-mi” are the musical building blocks of songs, thanks to The Sound of Music. Tonight, Elisabeth Von Trapp, the real life granddaughter of the singing nun, Maria, who inspired the story, performs at

St. Christopher’s-by-the-Sea Episcopal Church, 95 Harbor Dr. in Key Biscayne, at 7 p.m. Like the other members of her famous family, Von Trapp began singing at an early age but developed her signature sound, ethereal yet earthy, delicate but powerful. A $15 donation is requested and a free will offering will be taken. Visit StChrisKB.org.

January 30, 2013 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

In November we asked you, our readers, to vote for your favorite restaurants, hangouts, and charities – from your favorite Gay Friendly Social Network and favorite Barber to who you think serves the best pizza in town. We received hundreds of votes.

These are your opinions – not ours. Don’t agree with the winners? Well then make sure you vote in next year’s contest.

35

A&E

A Musical Reunion

Legendary Singer Returns to Royal Room

By J.W. Arnold

F

or the cabaret performers who return each year to the Colony Hotel’s Royal Room, the engagements can turn into reunions with adoring fans.

When Marilyn Maye makes the trip back, it’s much more than a reunion for one Fort Lauderdale man and his partner.

Mark Hess, a well-known bartender at the Alibi in Wilton Manors, first met the legendary singer more than 35 years ago as a teen waiting tables in a supper club at a lake resort in Iowa.

It was inevitable their paths would eventually cross: Hess, whose family has owned a vacation cabin on Lake Okoboji since 1922, took a job at The Inn at Lake Okoboji, where Maye had been performing every summer since the mid-1950s.

“Everybody knows everybody,” she said with a laugh during a recent phone interview. “I’ve watched four generations grow up — parents, their kids, their kids and now their kids. They’re friends.”

Even in 1977, when Hess took the job, the guests at the supper club revered Maye. She

Singer Marilyn Maye performs her cabaret act at New York’s

held the record for the most performances (76) by a singer on The Johnny Carson Show and provided the vocals for a popular Lincoln Mercury television commercial that ran for four years.

Sister

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36

That first summer, Hess recalled, Maye had blue T-shirts printed with her picture and declaring, “Marilyn Maye is a friend of mine.”

“I still have that shirt in my closet,” said Hess.

He left the job seven years later, but he was destined to cross paths with the singer again. About 20 years ago, Hess took his longtime partner, Gary Wentzel, also an Alibi bartender, on vacation to visit family in Iowa and suggested they catch Maye’s show.

“I thought he would like her,” Hess recalled, but Wentzel fell in love with the singer’s brassy voice and Marilyn Maye gained another “friend.”

The couple has seen Maye several times over the years and they even caught the singer’s cabaret act two years ago in Manhattan at the famed Metropolitan Room.

Maye has been in demand, particularly in New York City, not only as a performer, but as a coach and teacher. She has been working with aspiring singers to replicate her signature sound and interpret the standards from the American Songbook, the songs by Cole Porter, Johnny Mercer, Harold Arlen and others.

“That music has become hip again,” Maye explained.

This winter, Maye was named a “Living Legend” by the New York Nightlife Critics Association, along with fellow singer Leslie Uggams, at Town Hall. Just a couple of years ago, she received the organization’s Lifetime Achievement Award.

Always gracious and self-deprecating, the singer joked, “I’m a legend in my own mind.”

Actually, according to Maye, the secret of her success over seven decades has been to always have fun.

“It’s a party when I work and I make the audience the stars,” explained Maye.

Whether she’s performing at Lake Okoboji or the swanky Royal Room, the fans keep coming back to enjoy the music of the amazing entertainer.

If You Go What: Marilyn Maye When: Feb. 5-9 Where: The Royal Room at the Colony Hotel 155 Hammon Ave., Palm Beach How Much: Tickets are $60-70 for show, or $120-130 for dinner and show For More Info: Call 561-659-8100 for reservations

January 30, 2013 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

A&E

The Magic Flute

Rock concert from a different era

By J.W. Arnold

I

suppose it was presumptuous to assume the traffic jamming I-395 in downtown Miami approaching the Arsht Center was all headed to see opening night of the Florida Grand Opera’s production of Mozart’s last opera, The Magic Flute.

After all, I received an email on Friday warning me the performing arts center was expecting a busy night. But, after flying down I-95 only to then sit on the highway for another 15 minutes before finally exiting — well, that was a jam caused by more than a few thousand people headed to the opera.

I knew the Cleveland Orchestra was performing in the Arsht concert hall. Maybe the Heat were in town. As I finally pulled into the adjacent parking lot, I was told by

Photo by Gaston de Cardenas

seat those patrons—especially those who shelled out $229 for their tickets—late or not.) Don’t be late! Thank goodness for those monitors.

Mozart’s The Magic Flute is a departure from the formal genre of the day written for the nobles of the court. Unlike the traditional Italian, this form, called singspiel, is sung in the vernacular German and the story is advanced with spoken dialogue, rather than strict recitatives accompanied by basso continuo.

Based on a libretto by Emanuel Schikaneder and debuted in the writer’s Vienna theater in 1791, The Magic Flute is a fanciful tale of a young man, Tamino, and his struggles to win his true love, Pamina.

Accompanied by his bumbling bird-like companion, Papageno, the journey is complicated by the plotting of the evil Sarastro and Pamina’s mother, the Queen of the Night.

Both Schikaneder and Mozart were Masons, and the story seems to reference by Freemasonry and the emerging Enlightenment movement.

The use of magical flutes and bells to engage fanciful creatures certainly appealed to the imaginations of the common folk who Andrew Bidlack as Tamino in FGO’s production of The Magic Flute frequented the Vienna theater. the attendant all of Miami was jammed up FGO’s production, originally staged by the by the tens of thousands of ‘tweens being New York City Opera and directed by Jeffrey driven to see Justin Bieber at the American Marc Buchman, cleverly reimagines the Airlines Center. So much for my hopeful story, along the lines of fantasy films The fantasy of an opera renaissance in Miami.

Princess Bride or The Never Ending Story.

Needless to say, I had arrived just minutes Tamino is a little boy who is being read late and would be forced to wait for the from the storybook The Magic Flute at first opportunity to be seated. The center bedtime and as he drifts to sleep, the broadcasts the action on the stage on large fantasy unfolds in his dreams. His father flat screen monitors, so I didn’t miss any of becomes the evil Sarastro and the toys the action, but I would be forced to hang my in his ‘50s bedroom come to life in the head in shame when I was finally escorted unfolding adventure. Costume designer into the theater. Unfortunately, there was no Thierry Bosquet and wig and makeup break and I—along with 50 others who were designer Christopher Diamantides merge caught in the traffic—were forced to wait the elements of Tamino’s conscious and through the entire first act. (Surely there unconscious worlds with clever boldness. could have been an earlier opportunity to While the dream scenes, set in the dark

January 30, 2013 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

temple, and costumes of the priests are conventional, their Elvis Presley-inspired Papageno (complete with pompadour and accompanying dance moves) is brilliant.

Fifty-thousand screaming girls may have packed the AA Arena for Justin Bieber, but the real singer was at the Arsht. Andrew Bidlack (Tamino) not only has the pop singer’s boyishly good looks beat, he has a soaring tenor voice that could out-sing the “Biebs” any day. Jonathan G. Michie’s Papageno may have provided comic relief, but his singing was serious, especially during the character’s signature aria, Ein Mädchen oder Weibchen. Jeanette Vechionne dazzled the audience with the crisp coloratura arias of the Queen of the Night, some of the most difficult in the repertoire, and drawing cheers from the audience.

All those girls may dream of Justin Bieber for months to come, but I’ll be dreaming about this wonderful production from the Florida Grand Opera.

If You Go What: The Magic Flute By Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart When & Where: Feb. 1,5, 10 and 18 at Arsht Center, Miami Feb. 21 and 23 at Broward Center, Fort Lauderdale For tickets and show times, go to FGO.org

Tw 0+ Ye o Gentlem ar Lo e ve St n. ory!

One 5 Continuing Arts Education

Lunch & Learn Chairs: Lee Wolf and Steven Caras

Authors AlAn shAyne & normAn sunshine on Double life: A love Story from broADwAy to HollywooD Interviewed by Lee Wolf

Monday, February 11 at 11:30 am Cohen Pavilion • Tickets $75

Mr. Shayne, a retired president of Warner Brothers Television, where he shepherded such hit shows as Alice and The Dukes of Hazard and Mr. Sunshine, an internationally renowned artist, illustrator and sculptor, tell their own power couple story of how gay relationships have slowly become more accepted in the last half century. They’ll share intimate, inside stories from film, television and print about stars from a young Marlon Brando, to an emotional Liza Minnelli, to a generous Rock Hudson.

Copies of Double Life will be available for purchase at the conclusion of the lecture.

Admission includes lunch prepared by Catering by The Breakers at the Kravis Center.

A Kravis Center Cultural Society Event

Sponsored by Leona F. Chanin

To order tickets, visit kravis.org or call 561-832-7469 or 1-800-572-8471 Groups: 561-651-4304 or 561-651-4438 On the go? Access kravis.org from your mobile phone.

Yours. Truly.

Raymond F. Kravis Center for the Performing Arts • 701 Okeechobee Boulevard • West Palm Beach, FL 33401

37

A&E

Artists Square Off ArtServe hosts annual exhibit featuring local LGBT artists

By Regina Kaza

A

Photos courtesy of Byron Swart

rtServe in Fort Lauderdale will be Plantation Art Guild. hosting the sixth annual Twelve x The concept behind the exhibit was to give 12 exhibit where visitors can take artists an opportunity to create smaller and pieces off the wall and bring them more affordable pieces. Swart hopes people home that night. will choose pieces that will help them create The exhibit runs from Feb. 7 to March 1 and their own collage of paintings. displays 12-foot by 12-foot canvas paintings “They can pick their piece,” he said. “Take from local artists and organizations. All it off the wall and take it home that night.” paintings are priced at $200, $150 of which Frank Crowley, artist for Arts United, a gay goes to the artist. and lesbian non-profit arts organization, has Last year’s exhibit carried over 300 pieces from over 100 artists, according to co-founder Byron Swart. This year, he’s expecting even more.

Six local organizations are showcasing work in this year’s exhibit including Artists with Autism, Arts United, Broward Art Guild, Gold Coast Watercolor Society and Plantation Twelve x 12 features over 300 pieces by local artists and organizations at Art Guild.

ArtServe in Fort Lauderdale “We saw the need to find art that is affordable,” Swart said. made pieces for Twelve x 12 every year since “So that people could just like a piece and it started in 2007. purchase it for $200.”

“I do it every year, I love the show,” The exhibit has the paintings lined up Crowley said. “It’s fun and it always comes according to color. Swart says the show is out great with the work all the same size.” designed for visitors to step back and look Crowley said he has sold more pieces that at the wall of color first as a whole and then at are 12-foot by 12-foot than larger paintings. look at the individual pieces, then simply His Twelve by 12 paintings are mostly mixed take it off the wall and buy it. Artists can media collages. Last year, he used crayons, display any topics and any genre of art, just pencils, glue and paper to bring together his as long as it fits the size requirements that abstract paintings, which were mostly dark are enforced by the selection committee. yellows with a touch of pinks and purples.

“It’s a very visual exhibit,” Swart said.

“It’s stimulating creatively to work on “When these paintings come through, it’s these small pieces,” he said. “I’ll have less of a mass of images and color that hits your a plan when I start a twelve by twelve and eyes.” just see where it goes.”

Six local organizations are showcasing ArtServe is located at 1350 E. Sunrise work in this year’s exhibit including Artists Blvd., in Fort Lauderdale. Gallery hours are with Autism, Arts United, Broward Art 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday through Friday.

Guild, Gold Coast Watercolor Society and On Thursday Feb. 7, ArtServe is hosting the opening reception for Twelve x 12 from 6 to 8 p.m. Light snacks will be served and a DJ will play lounge music throughout the night.

Byron Swart, co-founder of Twelve by 12 said this year they’re organizing a people’s choice award for the exhibit. Visitors will choose their top 12 favorite pieces out of over 300. Those pieces will then be collaborated into a calendar for 2014.

Frank Crowley, artist for Arts United, a gay and lesbian non-profit arts organization, said the reception is a good way to mingle with other organizations and meet new people.

“I think it has all the people,” he said. “They can meet and see all the organizations that will be represented at the show.”

38

January 30, 2013 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

Community Annoucement

SunServe Announces Opening of Case Management Department Photo courtesy of gary hensley

From SunServe

entire

S

Fabulou s Frid ay s

Case Management department Joe Leonardo, Gary S. Hensley & Tiffany Arieagus

unServe is proud to announce the opening of their Case Management department at the 2312 Wilton Drive Wilton Manors, FL 33305 location (954) 764-5150. The group will begin by offering Intensive Housing Case Management services.

SunServe is a model 501(c)(3) nonprofit social service agency serving the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, and Questioning (LGBTQ) community in South Florida. It provides high quality, compassionate, and progressive care for all, including those in financial need, minorities, youth, seniors, families, and those with life-challenging physical or emotional conditions. It also performs numerous education and outreach projects.

The goals of SunServe’s HOPWA program will be to develop a long-term relationship with clients in order to develop trust and an open dialog regarding the barriers that arise to long term and stable housing for PLWH/A. The Director of Case Management is Gary S. Hensley, who has worked in the HIV/AIDS field since the early 90’s. He became involved when three very close friends passed away from AIDS related illnesses. He has served on the HIV/AIDS Planning Council, The Board of Directors of Friends Alliance & the PWA Coalition. He was honored to receive both the Life Preserver Award & Footsteps in the Sand Outstanding Leadership Award in 2008. His goal in life is to be remembered as someone who strived to help as many people as possible to improve their quality of life.

Also joining is Tiffany Arieagus — Case Manager, Advocate and Community Liaison.

She has worked in the HIV/AIDS Arena for about 13 years. She joined the staff at SunServe after being the Lead Housing Specialist for the TBRV Program at Broward House for the past 4 years. She was a 2005 Stars of the Rainbow Honoree for her contributions to the community. She is a member of the Community Advocacy Board and the Consumer Medical Board for the Florida State Health Department.

She is a tireless fundraiser and promoter of Cultural Competency for her clients and her community. She loves being involved and giving back to her community.

Joe Leonardo, case manager for the housing program serving the HIV/AIDS population at SunServe in Wilton Manors.

He first started working with the HIV/ AIDS population as a buddy volunteer in the Buddy Program in Providence, RI. He then accepted the position as the Buddy Program Coordinator and soon moved into case management. He then moved on to work with various populations in the social services field for the next several years. He is pleased to be back working with the HIV/ AIDS population at SunServe.

You are invited to be a part of the mission and outreach as the agency evolves and grows. Information about volunteering and financial support can be found at WWW. SunServe.org. If you choose to make a contribution to SunServe, 91 cents of every dollar goes directly into client programs.

SunServe is grateful for the support from the community.

Contact Gary S. Hensley (954) 764-5150 Ext.109

January 30, 2013 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

Make sure to check SFGN’s Facebook page every Friday.

Find and ‘Share’ the Fabulous Fridays post -- you’ll be entered to win fabulous prizes! www.facebook.com/SouthFloridaGayNews 39

*No Bullies Allowed!

By Brian Swinford

Have an event you want to list?

If so send me an email at Calendar@sfgn.com.

Presented as Smart Stage Matinees, No Bullies Allowed! comes to the Amaturo Theater on Friday, February 1 at 10 and 11:30 a.m. Incorporating anti-bullying lessons and solutionoriented messages into famous fairy tales, the story takes place at Enchanted Elementary where the Big Bad Wolf bullies the Three Pigs, Little Red, Jack, Cinderella and Ugly Duckling. Tickets are $6 for individual seats, $5.50 for groups of 10 or more and $3 lap seats are available for infants 12 months and under. Visit BrowardCenter.org

*Barbershop Harmony Salutes Disney *denotes new listing

Theater Broward County *The BBC Murders

Agatha Christie’s Classic Mystery Series The BBC Murders continuing through Sunday, Feb. 3. Four Agatha Christie classics, Three Blind Mice, Yellow Iris, Butter in a Lordly Dish and Personal Call have been adapted for the stage by Judith Walcutt and David Ossman from lost BBC radio scripts.

Tickets range in price from $26.50 to $66.50. Showtimes vary.

Visit ParkerPlayhouse.com

*Michael Kaeshammer

Gold Coast Jazz Society presents a performance from Canadian pianist Michael Kaeshammer in Going to the Mardi Gras on Friday, Feb. 8 at 7:45 p.m. Tickets are $40. Visit ParkerPlayhouse.com

*New Shanghai Circus

New Shanghai Circus will be presented as a Smart Stage Matinee on Friday, Feb.15 at 10 a.m. The Circus features acrobats, jugglers and contortionists who defy gravity.

Tickets are $6 for individual seats, $5.50 for groups of 10 or more and $3 for lap seats for infants 12 months and under.

Visit ParkerPlayhouse.com

*The Ultimate Elvis Show

The Broward Center presents Blue Suede Shoes - Love Me Tender: The Ultimate Elvis Show featuring Scot Bruce and Mike Albert Sunday, Feb. 17 at 7 p.m. Bruce who pays tribute to a young Elvis, is joined by Albert, who is acclaimed around the globe as “the world’s finest Elvis impressionist” for his performances with the Big “E” Band. Tickets are $27.50 and $37.50 Visit ParkerPlayhouse.com

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*Alan Parsons Live Project

Alan Parsons Live Project on Monday, Feb. 18 at 7 p.m. as part of Parson’s Greatest Hits Tour 2013. The British rock pioneer began his musical career as a sound engineer working with The Beatles, Al Stewart, Cockney Rebel and Pilo, but solidified his reputation through his work on Pink Floyd’s iconic album Dark Side of the Moon.. Tickets are $45.50 and $65.50. Visit ParkerPlayhouse.com

*Looped

Valerie Harper returns to Fort Lauderdale in the National Tour of Matthew Lombardo’s madcap comedy Looped from Tuesday, Feb. 26 – Sunday, March 3. Based on a true story, Looped takes place in the summer of 1965, when an inebriated Tallulah Bankhead (Harper) stumbled into a sound studio to re-record (or “loop”) one line of dialogue for her last movie Die, Die, My Darling. Showtimes are Tuesday, February 26 – Friday, March 1 at 8 p.m.; Saturday, March 2 at 2 and 8 p.m.; and Sunday, March 3 at 1 and 7 p.m. Ticket prices are $28, $46.50 and $66.50. Visit ParkerPlayhouse.com

*Wicked

Wicked now through Sunday, Feb. 17 in the Au-Rene Theater.

Long before Dorothy drops in, two other girls meet in the land of Oz. One, born with emerald green skin, is smart, fiery and misunderstood. The other is beautiful, ambitious and very popular. How these two grow to become the Wicked Witch of the West and Glinda the Good makes for “the most complete - and completely satisfying - new musical in a long time” (USA Today). Showtimes Vary. Tickets range in price from $34.50 to $154.50, with Club Level seats available for139.50.

Visit BrowardCenter.org

The Sunrise, Fla. chapter of the Barbershop Harmony Society presents Barbershop Harmony Salutes Disney on Saturday, Feb. 2 at 2 and 7 p.m. Favorite songs from Disney’s most beloved films of all time will be performed in the all-American style of a cappella singing. The concert will include songs from such movies as The Lion King, Mary Poppins, Dumbo, Beauty and the Beast and more. Tickets are $15. Visit BrowardCenter.org

*Sunday Jazz Brunch

The SunTrust Sunday Jazz Brunch takes place Sunday, Feb. 3 from 10:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. The SunTrust Sunday Jazz Brunch offers free music from Riverside Dixieland Band on the Peck Courtyard stage at the Broward Center for the Performing Arts, Christina Sichta on the Esplanade Stage and Pieces of Work in the Connie Hoffman Gazebo. Visit BrowardCenter.org

*Just Imagine

Just Imagine starring Tim Piper as John Lennon effortlessly transports the audience to an imaginary world where John Lennon comes alive once again on Sunday, Feb. 10 at 3 and 7 p.m. in the Amaturo Theater. Offering insights into Lennon’s past, philosophies, dreams, regrets and inspirations, the Los Angeles theatrical hit features many of the best-loved hits by the famous Beatle. Tickets are $45 and $35. Visit BrowardCenter.org

*Songwriter’s Showcase

Chrystal Hartigan presents Songwriter’s Showcase on Monday, Feb. 11 at 8 p.m. in the intimate setting of the Abdo New River Room. Return to the days of 1960s Greenwich Village coffeehouses as musicians from around the world perform while an open mic segment lets hopefuls try out material in front of a welcoming audience. Admission is $10 at the door and a cash bar is available. Visit BrowardCenter. org

January 30, 2013 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

*I Love You, You’re Perfect, Now Change

I Love You, You’re Perfect, Now Change comes to the Amaturo Theater Wednesday, Feb. 13 through Saturday, Feb.16 as a presentation of the Broward Center 2012-13 Off Broadway Series. This long-running off Broadway musical hit features a collection of scenes and songs scaling the full spectrum of male/female relationships, including lampoons of first dates, pre-marital jitters, post-marital complaints, divorces and all the trials and tribulations of dealing with the opposite sex. Showtime’s are Wednesday, February 13 through Friday, February 15 at 7:30 p.m. and Saturday, February 16 at 3 and 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $35. Visit BrowardCenter.org

*Tony Bennett

Music icon Tony Bennett returns to South Florida with a concert in the Au-Rene Theater on Wednesday, Feb. 27 at 8 p.m. A living legend and winner of 17 Grammy Awards, Bennett introduced a multitude of songs into the Great American Songbook that have since become pop music standards. His hits include the Grammy-winning “I Left My Heart in San Francisco,” as well as Top 40 hits “I Wanna Be Around,” “The Good Life” and “Who Can I Turn To (When Nobody Needs Me).” Tickets are $51, $76, $101, $126 and $151, with Club Level seats available for $161. Visit BrowardCenter.org

*Melanie

Singer-songwriter Melanie will perform in the Amaturo Theater on Thursday, Feb. 21 at 8 p.m. With guitar in hand and a talent that combines amazing vocal equipment, disarming humor and a vibrant engagement with life, she has created hits including “Beautiful People,” Brand New Key,” “Ruby Tuesday,” “What Have They Done To My Song Ma” and “Lay Down (Candles In The Rain).” Tickets are $25 and $35. Visit BrowardCenter.org

*Harriet Tubman and the Underground Railroad Harriet Tubman and the Underground Railroad is a tribute to the great American who freed herself and hundreds of her people from the bonds of slavery. This musical drama will be presented as a part of the Smart Stage Matinee Series on Friday, Feb. 22 at 10 and 11:30 a.m. in the Amaturo Theater.

Tickets are $6 for individual seats, $5.50 for groups of 10 or more and $3 lap seats are available for infants 12 months and under. Visit BrowardCenter.org

*The Magic Flute

The Florida Grand Opera presents Mozart’s operatic masterpiece The Magic Flute on Thursday, Feb. 21 at 7:30 p.m. and Saturday, Feb. 23 at 8 p.m. in the Au-Rene Theater. In this allegorical representation of the timeless struggle between good and evil, the handsome prince Tamino is charged by the Queen of the Night with the rescue of her daughter, the lovely Pamina, from the hands of Sarastro. As his quest alongside the bird catcher Papageno nears its end, Tamino begins to realize who the real villain is in this story. Tickets are $21, $46, $60, $79, $89, $125 and $200, with Club Level seats available for $149. Visit BrowardCenter.org

*Russian National Orchestra

The Russian National Orchestra will perform on Tuesday, Feb. 26 at 8 p.m. in the Au-Rene Theater. Vasily Petrenko leads the Orchestra in a program which features Barry Douglas on piano and includes: Rimsky-Korsakov’s “Capriccio Espagnol Op.34;” Tchaikovsky’s “Piano Concerto No. 1 No. 2 in B-flat minor, Op.23;” and Rachmaninoff’s “Symphonic Dances, Op.45.” Tickets are $35, $50, $65, $80 and $95, with Club Level seats available for $125. Visit BrowardCenter.org

Eating Alabama

The Southern Circuit Independent Film Series continues with Eating Alabama on Thursday, Feb. 21 at 7:30 p.m. A thoughtful and often funny look at community and sustainability, the documentary follows a young couple who set out to eat locally and seasonally, the way their grandparents did, yet they soon realize that nearly everything about the food system has changed. Following the screening, the film’s director and producer Andrew Grace and the audience will engage in a discussion about the film and his work as a filmmaker. Tickets are $15 with subscription packages available. Visit Miramarculturalcenter.org

Tosca

The Miramar Cultural Center and Teatro Lirica D’Europa presents Puccini’s Tosca on Tuesday, Feb. 26 at 7:30 p.m. as part of the Opera Series. This opera is a sizzling drama of love, death-defying loyalty and villainous deceit. Sponsored

by Novus Realty, LLC, the performance features a live orchestra and is sung in Italian with English projected subtitles. Tickets are $40 and $45 with subscription packages available. Call 954-602-4500 or visit Miramarculturalcenter.org

Pig Tale – An Urban Faerie Story

For anyone who’s ever found themselves staring at their partner – wondering what in the world happened to that hot, handsome man they first started dating – playwright Chris Weikel is happy to explain it in his own twisted bedtime story.

Set in the wilds of New York’s East Village, Chris Weikel’s Pig Tale explores some of our worst dating fears. The ticket price is $30. Through February 2. Call 954-678-1496 or visit Islandcitystage.org, Empirestage.com or Smarttix.com or call Smarttix at 212-868-4444.

Laffing Matterz

Laffing Matterz at the Broward Center continues in the Abdo New River Room Thursdays and Fridays at 7:30 p.m., Saturdays at 8:30 p.m. and selected Sundays throughout the season at 4:30 p.m. Taking on the latest scandal, social media, current events and everything in-between, Laffing Matterz at the Broward Center combines the best of dinner theater with the hilarity of topical satire. Admission is $59 and $65 and includes the show and a dinner with house salad, a choice of entrée and warm sourdough bread. Visit BrowardCenter.org

Palm Beach County A Raisin in the Sun

In this powerful, classic drama, a substantial insurance payment could have life-changing consequences for a poor black family living on Chicago’s South Side in the 1950s. This play is directed by Seret Scott and produced by Calla & Ralph Guild. At the Palm Beach Dramaworks on Feb 1- Mar 3. Visit Palmbeachdramaworks.org

Miami-Dade *Growing up Grodin

The Aventura Comedy Series, presented by Low Brow Entertainment Comedy, continues with comedian Marion Grodin in Growing up Grodin on Saturday, Feb. 2 at 8 p.m. The daughter of comedy actor Charles Grodin gives audiences a behind the scenes look at how growing up around her eccentric and colorful family made her who she is today.

Grodin has opened for Lewis Black and has appeared on The Conan O’Brien Show, The Joy Behar Show and The View.

Tickets are $31.50 and $36.50. Visit AventuraCenter.org

*Sijing Ye in Prodigies & Masters of Tomorrow

The Miami International Piano Festival’s Aventura Cultural Series presents pianist Sijing Ye in Prodigies & Masters of Tomorrow on Sunday, Feb. 3 at 5 p.m. In this journey into Chopin & Liszt’s repertoire, Ye performs Chopin’s favorite mazurkas, waltzes, nocturnes, ballades, the great “Sonata No. 2,” as well as Liszt’s “Rhapsodie Espagnole.”

Tickets are $30, with half price tickets available at the box office for students age 22 and under with valid I.D. Visit AventuraCenter.org

*No Bullies Allowed!

No Bullies Allowed! will be presented as Smart Stage Matinees on Monday, Feb. 4 at 10 and 11:30 a.m.

Incorporating anti-bullying lessons and solution-oriented messages into famous fairy tales, the story takes place at Enchanted Elementary where the Big Bad Wolf bullies the Three Pigs, Little Red Riding Hood, Jack, Cinderella and Ugly Duckling. Individual tickets are $10 and $3 lap seats are available for infants 12 months and under. Visit AventuraCenter.org

*Sister Robert Anne’s Cabaret Class

The City of Aventura presents Sister Robert Anne’s Cabaret Class from Thursday, Feb. 7 through Sunday, Feb. 10. Christine Mild stars as Sister Robert Anne, a “one-nun” tour-de-force created by Dan Goggin as part of the “Nunsense” series of musical comedies. Performances are: Thursday, February 7 at 8 p.m.; Friday, February 8 at 8 p.m.; Saturday, February 9 at 2 and 8 p.m.; and Sunday, February 10 at 2 p.m. Tickets are $36.50. Visit AventuraCenter.org

*Ellis Island: Gateway to a Dream

The high-spirited musical journey Ellis Island: Gateway to a Dream will be presented as Smart Stage Matinees on Monday, Feb. 11 at 10 and 11:30 a.m. The show follows a group of immigrants whose experiences are typical of the many thousands who came to America in the early 1900’s.

Celebrating the multi-cultural foundations of our nation, Ellis Island is about courage, hope and the challenges of the immigration experience. Tickets are $10 for individual seats and $3 for lap seats for infants 12 months and under. Visit AventuraCenter.org

*The Well Digger’s Daughter

The Aventura Foreign Film Series continues with The Well Digger’s Daughter on Tuesday, Feb. 12 at 7 p.m. In preWorld War II France, a father is torn between his sense of honor and his deep love for his saintly daughter when she gets in trouble with the wealthy son of a shopkeeper. This film is shown in French with English subtitles and there will be a post-screening discussion. Tickets are $10. Visit AventuraCenter.org

January 30, 2013 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

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*Hal Linden

Have an event you want to list?

If so send me an email at Calendar@sfgn.com. *Canciones de Broadway

The City of Aventura presents Canciones de Broadway with Carla Bordonada on Friday, Feb. 15 at 8 p.m. and Saturday, Feb. 16 at 8 p.m. Now, Puerto Rican born cabaret star Carla Bordonada performs “Somewhere,” “Don’t Cry for Me Argentina”, “Impossible Dream” and more. Tickets are $34.50.

Visit AventuraCenter.org

*Stories of a Seared Childhood

The City of Aventura’s First Person Singular: Adventures in Solo Storytelling Series continues with Where There’s Smoke, There’s Dinner: Stories of a Seared Childhood Featuring Regi Carpenter on Thursday, Feb. 19 at 7 p.m. St. Lawrence River rat and award-winning storyteller Carpenter gleans stories from four generations of her eccentric family and her roots in Clayton, N.Y. that are equally original, poignant, heartbreaking and side-splitting. Tickets are $25. Visit AventuraCenter.org

*Denotes new listing

The City of Aventura presents a performance by Tony Awardwinner Hal Linden on Thursday, Feb. 28 at 8 p.m. Linden presents an entertaining combination of songs, ranging from classic pop to jazz standards, Broadway and feature film tunes, standards from the American and theatrical musings highlighting memorable moments from his life and career.

Tickets are $36.50 and $41.50. Visit AventuraCenter.org

Island City-Wide Yard Sale

Annual Island city-wide yard sale. The Yard Sales are held at Hagen Park, 2020 Wilton Drive, on the second Saturday of the month through April 2013 from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. The City Yard Sales spaces will be available to purchase. February 9. Last year, the yard sales hosted from 60 to 90 vendors, so register early while there is still space. More info call the Leisure Services Department at 954-390-2115 or 954-390-2130.

*Jazz Around the World

Zameru Investment presents Jazz Around the World on Friday, February 22 at 8:30 p.m. This musical journey through the world of jazz features swing, Latin jazz, tango jazz, bossa nova and blues evoking artists such as Nat King Cole, Frank Sinatra, Louis Armstrong, Cole Porter and Ella Fitzgerald. The concert incorporates jazz of various eras and countries, as well as jazz adaptations of other musical genres. Tickets are $35 with $50 V.I.P. tickets which include a post-show champagne toast with the company. Visit AventuraCenter.org

The cast of The Whole Caboodle, see page 34

Story Pirates

Local students are the playwrights of the hilarious and interactive performance by Story Pirates on Saturday, Feb. 2 at 11 a.m. as the final show in the Family Theater Series. Every show is unique as teaching artists and performers also take suggestions from the audience to create stories on the spot.

Tickets are $15 visit Miramarculturalcenter.org

Harlem Gospel Choir

Made up of the finest singers and musicians from various churches in Harlem, N.Y., the Harlem Gospel Choir will perform on Saturday, Feb. 9 at 8 p.m. as part of the Signature Series.

The choir performs songs of inspiration that touch the depths of the soul and raises spirits to angelic heights. Tickets are $35, $40 and $45 with subscription packages available. Visit Miramarculturalcenter.org

The Four Noble Truths

We all have certain things that feel to us like true sources of happiness, but which in reality have caused us no end of suffering, time and time again. It is our mind of attachment that continues to deceive us, causing us to relate to these things in mistaken ways, and leading us straight into problems and misfortune. Learn how to break this cycle. $10/class or $30/ series includes vegetarian food after class, members free.

Visit MeditationInFortLauderdale.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 Broadway in Miami 2012-13

This season Ziff Ballet Opera House through 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

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

Water, Sports and Travel Festival

The first-ever Water, Sports & Travel Festival, presented by leading water sports organizations will be held at the Greater Fort Lauderdale/Broward County Convention Center and several locations throughout Greater Fort Lauderdale from April 26-28. The Festival exhibition will feature four co-located shows including “The Board Show”, “The Dive Show”, “The Boating & Water Toys Show”, and “The Travel Show.” Visit Wstfest.com

Floral Designs for the Holidays

“Flower Designs for the Holidays”. Janice Hamlin, Master Flower Show Judge from the Manatee River Garden Club in Bradenton, Florida will inspire us by demonstrating the creation of flower designs for the holidays. Call 954-561-8475.

Visit FLGardenClub@gmail.com

LGBT Quit Smoking Groups - Free Nicotine Patches

Did you know that LGBT people are more likely to smoke than most any other population group in the United States? Being around other Smokers can make it more difficult for people in our communities to quit. But many of us are trying, and the Quit Smoking Now Program in Wilton Manors is here to show us how to quit and stay without smoking. Visit My.vcita.com/myquitcoach QuitsmokingWM. com or call 305-942-6378

The 6th Annual I Care I Cure…I Run 5K

The 6th Annual I Care I Cure…I Run 5K and Family Fun Day! is on Sunday, Feb. 10 at 7:30 a.m. at the BB&T Center (formerly BankAtlantic Center), 1 Panther Parkway, Sunrise, Florida.

Register online at: www.icareicure.org, Adults $25 and Children $20. The I Care I Cure Childhood Cancer Foundation supports the development of, and raises public awareness about, cutting-edge research for targeted therapies for childhood cancer. Contact Sue Trilling at 800-807-8013

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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

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.

January 30, 2013 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

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

Survivor Support

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.

Eating Disorder 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

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-u

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 954924-2980

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@comc​ast.net

Tuesday Night Eatin Meeting

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

Women4Women Support

YOGA Among the Orchids

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 954-7645150

Man2Man Discussion

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 561-4042011. 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

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

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 “We Got Love!”

Extend your Valentine celebration with 25 men who have been in, through, and over love, way too many times! Classic love songs, beautiful melodies, and just a touch of sarcasm!

Post-concert reception featuring wine and sweet treats (and some savory treats, too!) This concert will be performed by the best chorus group around, The Gay Men’s Chorus of the Palm Beaches. This event will be on Feb. 17 from 4 p.m to 5:30 p.m. at the St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church in Lake Worth. Call 561582-6609 or email SAEpiscopal@aol.com

Coming Out Support Group

Coming Out Support Group for all ages, men and women.

Meets every Thursday evening at Compass, GLCC of the Palm Beaches , 201 N. Dixie Highway, Lake Worth, Florida from 6:30 to 8 p.m. Call Forrest @561-479-8313

South Florida Fair

The South Florida Fair is back and better than 18-Feb 3 at the West Palm Beach fair grounds. Bring the whole family out for rides, animals, and some good old fashioned funnel cakes.

Tickets are $15 at the gate and kid get in free that are under 5.

Visit Southfloridafair.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=home.main

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

Gay Male Empowerment

Good Orderly AA

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

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.

PBC Gender Support

PFLAG

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.

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.

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 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

Seniors vs. Crime

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 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

January 30, 2013 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

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Have an event you want to list?

If so send me an email at Calendar@sfgn.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 *New Worship Service

Biscayne Unitarian will begin worship service on Sunday, Feb. 3, at 4 p.m., at the Pelican Harbor Marina Conference Center, 1275 NE 79th St, Miami. A social hour with refreshments will follow the service. Rev. Dr. Kenneth Claus, minister of All Souls Miami UU of South Miami, will lead this family-friendly service.

Visit www.uua.org. Call: David Traupman, davidtraupman@ comcast.net, 305-758-3067

*15th annual Grantees on Parade

Citizens Interested in Arts (CIA) presents the 15th annual Grantees on Parade on Sunday, Feb. 17 at 1:30 p.m. The event is emceed by Broadway star David McBride with television, recording and cabaret artist Judy Scott as a featured guest.

CIA Grants Committee members Dr. Dorothy Koreman, CIA Founder Gloria Muroff, Florence Werner and President Emeritus Lenore Toby-Simmons will award grants to 30 South Florida artistic organizations. Tickets are $50 and $75 with VIP seats available for $100. All tickets include admission to the pre-show brunch at 11:30 a.m. Visit AventuraCenter.org

*Winter Party Festival 2013

*Denotes new listing

Kart Racing Tour

On Feb. 8-10, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. enjoy The Florida Winter Tour which is one of the world’s largest, and longest running kart racing programs. In 2012 the FWT featured over 400 drivers from 28 countries and all six karting continents, and for the 5th consecutive year was the world’s largest official Rotax Max Challenge series and event. General admission viewing is free.

Pit passes are $10. Call 305-469-6188

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 selfesteem. 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

If “Dancing With the Stars” isn’t exactly your gig, volunteer your groove thing to be a go-go boy – or go-go girl – as visual entertainment for one of the signature dance events at this year’s 20th Edition Winter Party Festival, March 6 – 11, 2013.

Dancers at Winter Party Festival are among the hundreds of volunteers who help make the six-day event a success. While there is no monetary compensation, free tickets to events are provided to those who volunteer their time. Costumes will be provided. Visit Winterparty.com.

Lambda Dade Clubhouse

4th Annual Pride Cruise

Key West

From Ocean Drive to the ocean waves, Miami Beach Gay Pride 2013 is setting sail once again with Source Events for the “Miami Beach Pride Cruise” immediately following all the Miami Beach Gay Pride festivities. The Pride Cruise takes place from Monday, April 15 to Friday, April 19. Visit SourceEvents.com

South Miami Rotary Art FestivalHeld in the vibrant downtown area of South Miami on Sunset Drive between U.S. 1 and Red Road, the show offers a weekend of exhibition by 148 exhibitors of fine arts and crafts. Free admission for patrons and ample garage and street parking are available in this exciting area filled with historic buildings, trendy restaurants and unique shops. Come and support your local arts community on Feb. 23 at 10 a.m. and Sunday, Feb. 24, 6 p.m. Visit SouthMiamiArtsFest.org

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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) 5739608. 212 NE 24th Street. Miami. Visit Lambdadadeclubhouse. org

The 48th Annual Old Island Days Art Festival

The Old Island Days Art Festival is a two-day juried outdoor fine art festival. That will take place on Feb. 23-24. The show, which is in its 48th year, is sponsored by the Key West Art Center, and was originally held to raise money for the renovation of the building at 301 Front Street. This show will be filled all sorts of beautiful art from a lot of locals in Key West.

Visit KeyWestArtCenter.com/festival.html

January 30, 2013 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

G

AY

W S , N E

S T R A I G H T

F A C

T

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CLASSIFIEDS 954.530.4970

TO PLACE AN AD CALL OUT CLASSIFIEDS DEPARTMENT OR VISIT SOUTHFLORIDAGAYNEWS.COM/GETLISTED

ENTERTAINMENT

ATTORNEYS

ACCOMMODATIONS 15th ANNIVERSARY JANUARY SPECIAL RATES From $99/Night & $595/Week. Beautiful Studio, 1 & 2 BR Apts. with Full Kitchens.

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ANNOUNCEMENTS

CLEANING SERVICES HEAVENLY HOUSE CLEANER Upscale service that’s out of this world. Trustworthy & reliable. 10 years exp, references, not an agency, pet friendly, call Nina 954-601-6141 -------------------------------------------------------------CLEAN IT RIGHT The best cleaning for your buck. 1BD $50, 2BD $60, 3BD $70. Excellent rates & references. 10 years in business. Serving Broward, North Miami Dade & S. Palm Beach.

Call Manny 954-560-4443 -------------------------------------------------------------NEED SERVICE? Here to help you with cleaning, shopping or errands. Honest, mature, meticulous service for you and your home. Call Dave 561512-6286. Serving gay men in Lake Worth & Palm Beach.

COMPUTERS 3 LGBT SFL DOMAINS FOR SALE GayFLL.com GayPBI.com and GayMIA.com.

Perfect for anyone serving the LGBT market in SFL. Real estate, tourism, promotions, endless possibilities. Take all 3/$1500! Credit cards/paypal accepted. Contact dennis@ hamstercheese.com -------------------------------------------------------------COMPLETE COMPUTER REPAIR FREE ESTIMATES - no extra charge for in-home.

FREE Computer tune-up with any service.

Replacement of laptop screen & keyboard.

Viruses, spyware, data recovery, lockouts & more. SAME DAY SERVICE - LOWEST PRICE GUARANTEE Call Ernesto: 754-234-5598 -----------------------------------------------------------------HATE WINDOWS 8?We can bring back the look and feel of windows. Same day service. Call 954-986-1316 www.gaycomputerwiz.com

ELECTRICIAN

COUNSELING/PSYCHOTHERAPY

INSURANCE SERVICES

TERRY DAVIS, LCSW, LLC #SW1079 Supportive male therapist, specializes in LGBT issues, HIV/AIDS,addictions, etc. Affordable, sliding scale. Eves/weekend. TdavisLCSW.com* (954) 731-5505

GAY FRIENDLY INSURANCE We represent 50 companies for all your auto, home, health, life and business needs. We offer affordable rates and free quotes. Available nights and weekends 24/7. dlanders@kirsteininsurance.com Diamond Landers 954-665-3375

AIR CONDITIONING

LANDSCAPING

HONEST, RELIABLE AIR CONDITIONING & HEATING SERVICES Gay owned and operated company, Eiland Air, Inc. 24 hour service. Reasonable prices. Licensed & Insured #CAC1817222 Call Mike 786-247-6022

IRRIGATION SYSTEM REPAIR AND MAINTENANCE 19 years experience, excellent work, referrals upon request. Call Roberto 954383-8980

EMPLOYMENT EXPERIENCED GROOMER? Looking for a P/T experienced groomer with good scissoring skills to work on all breeds of dogs & cats.Only serious candidates apply. References will be varied. No drama!! 954-530-7216 ---------------------------------------------------------------SIDELINES SPORTS BAR POSITIONS AVAILABLE Bartenders and bar backs. Now accepting applications and resumes. Mon-Fri from 3-6PM. No Phone calls please!

January 30, 2013 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

HANDYMAN THINGS YOU NEED TO ACCOMPLISH? Minds at ease, A+ handyman service. Prompt, Reliable & Honest. Call Keldon Keller 954-551-3127 krkeller@aol.com

TO PLACE A CLASSIFIED AD CALL 954-530-4970 AND ASK FOR ADRAIN 45

PET SERVICES

LANDSCAPING

PROPERTY MANAGEMENT

LICENSED MASSAGE EXP. MATURE MALE WPB MASSEUR In-calls only, private studio setting by Belvedere/SR7 in quiet area. Highly skilled, intuitive theraputic bodywork by friendly LMT. Affordable rates but cash only. Early to late, 7 days. Call (561) 2548065 for appt. or walk-in OK. RELIEVE STRESS & TENSION WITH MAGICAL HANDS PRO MASSAGE (FL: MA51008) --------------------------------------------------------------MASSAGE IN WILTON MANORS Have a great Swedish, Deep Tissue, Reflexology or Sports Massage in a quiet private atmosphere.

1 hr $50 for any massage. Call Steve 954-5651996 LIC# MA16988 --------------------------------------------------------------THE BRITISH POUND John Maroussas LMT Sports Massage, Deep Tissue, Neuromuscular, Trigger Point, Swedish, Salt or Sugar Scrubs. Private Studio w/ Shower.

Wilton Manors Location near Bill’s Lic#MA51123 954-999-2240 --------------------------------------------------------------RECESSION RELIEF $40 per 90 MIN - Out calls higher. Swedish, Deep Tissue, Specialty Back, Lower Body & Feet. Couples Discounts. Seniors Welcome. Delray Beach. 16 years experience.

MA18563 Dennis (561) 502-2628 -------------------------------------------------------------NEW CLIENTS GET $10 OFF ANY SERVICE Located in a very nice, private & comfortable massage studio. Nice linens, music, oils, hot towels and more. SPECIALS: Swedish, Integrative or Sports Massage 60 Minures $60, 90 Minures $85, 105 Minures $95 www. schedulenow.info Call 954-816-7260 Keith Angel, LMT MA62951 MM27048 --------------------------------------------------------------WILTON MANORS MASSAGE Swedish, Deep Tissue, Sports. $59 Swedish Hour. call or Text Chris Tunkus 954-258-8779 1322 NE 4th Avenue Fort Lauderdale, FL www.WiltonManorsMassage. com

Dog Walking: $10.00 starting at Pet Sitting: $40.00 In House Pet Sitting: $45.00 Training: $10.00 starting per visit Pet Taxi (FTL Area): $20.00 Dependable • Reliable Service Delivered with Love and Respect

954-297-5336

www.greendogpetservices.com

Lic# 11000106488

PSYCHIC SERVICES CHRISTIAN PSYCHIC READER AND ADVISOR

BY SHAWN Reunite you with loved ones or family. Will guide you for success. Tell past, present and destiny to come. For further information call Shawn at 954-549-8243

TO PLACE A CLASSIFIED AD CALL 954-530-4970 AND ASK FOR ADRAIN 46

RENT/LEASE • FORT LAUDERDALE MIDCENTURY STUNNER WON’T LAST! Newly restored 3 bed/1 bath. New Floors, Stainless Appliances, Granite, New bath, Fresh Paints Garage, 2 Screened Patios, W/D . Landscaped.

Walk to shops, Bars, Resturants. Just Reduced $1390 Youtube.com/watch?v=GMcdMZmhfRo ----------------------------------------------------------------LAKERIDGE FURN. GARDEN STUDIO Central to beach/downtown/Wilton Drive.Clean newly ren. 1 rm and bath. Lg. private fenced courtyard.private entry with parking,laundry onsite, water and electric included. $765/mo.

1st and security with lease. Avail March 1st call 941-548-7989

January 30, 2013 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

RENT/LEASE • FORT LAUDERDALE REAL ESTATE SERVICES MIDDLE RIVER TERRACE Walk to Wilton Drive, large 2BD/2BA, extra large kitchen w/ dishwasher, central a/c, LR, DR, tile floors, parking, dog friendly. $1,200/mo. + Security. Call 954-815-2550 ---------------------------------------------------------------MIDDLE RIVER TERRACE 1/1 efficency $675/mo. Or $165/week, 6 mos or 1 year lease. Large 3BD house $1,250, carport, office, and all tile. Pay your first month’s rent with an approved application and you’re in. Water & electric included* Call for details. 954-527-9225 ---------------------------------------------------------------VICTORIA PARK - LARGE 1BD/1BA Completely renovated. Torazo floors, new kitchen apps, Walk-in closet, new paint, A/C, shared W/D. Quite 5 unit bldg in safe area. $800/Mo. Call 954-763-3222 ---------------------------------------------------------------HUGE 2/2 POOL DUPLEX - POMPANO BEACH Updated, Lushly Landscaped, East of Fed Hwy 1 Mile to Beach, D/R, Sep. Laundry W/D, Fab Lrg Pool, New Central AC, Tile Floors, Small Dog or Cat ok. $1390, Available 2/1/13 Call Tim: 754-235-2911 ---------------------------------------------------------------1BD APARTMENT UPSTAIRS 1142 NE 4th Avenue, Fort Lauderdale $700/Mo. Yearly Call 954-764-0212 or 954-581-2573 ---------------------------------------------------------------DUPLEX APT. CORAL RIDGE ISLES ( close to Holy Cross Hosp. and shopping ) Newly remodeled and landscaped 2B/2B ( each bedroom with adjoining bathroom) ideal for roommates. Spacious rooms with plenty of closet space, upgraded kitchen with micro, D/W. Your own laundry room with new W/D.Huge back yard and screened-in back porch. Small pet allowed $1250/month call 561-362-6104 or 954-2542499 --------------------------------------------------------------$700 DOWNTOWN / SAILBOAT BEND Quiet, small complex. 1BD/1BA. Large walk-in closet, brand new carpet. Living room, dining area, kitchen, FREE hot water, NEW A/C, LOW electric bills, assigned parking, “””MOVE-IN SPECIAL””” $700/MO. Call 954-566-6251 --------------------------------------------------------------2 ROOMS FOR RENT 1BD/1BA new carpet, kitchenette, $1,200/Mo. will reduce to $775 for experienced handyman. Also 1BD $700/Mo. will reduce to $400 for experienced handyman. No pets allowed. Preferably young and strong male.

Contact John 954-549-8243 for more info.

RENT/LEASE • WILTON MANORS 1414 NE 5TH TER. LARGE 2BD/1BA Open gourmet kitchen w/ smooth top stove, D/W, crisp white cabinets, tile floors, central AC, private patio, onsite laundry, pets OK. $1,180/Mo. F/S. Owner/Licensee. Call 954-448-9811

Big Al & Kevin

Our clients are the most important people in the world to us. We care deeply that your needs and goals for a safe and secure retirement are met and completely understood. Whether you are getting ready to enter retirement or you are already retired, our representatives are here to make certain you have the retirement future you have always dreamed of.

Services: Estate & Tax Planning • Legacy & Wealth Preservation Call All Cicotte or Kevin Palombo Today!

954-302-3228 2929 East Commercial Blvd, 8th Floor • Penthouse D Fort Lauderdale, FL 33308 www.americantaxandinsurance.com

SPIRITUALITY

SALON

MIAMI –DADE NEW THOUGHT Spirituality group has counseling , coaching to help you get past what challenges you the most. Success in any area is possible. Call us and discuss your goals . Many of our activities are low or no cost. Inspirational gatherings every Sunday 11am, group work / classes in Broward- Dade.

1:1 counseling (phone or in person.) email us with your requests info@miamicsl.org or ask to receive our E- letter (bi weekly) packed full information to change your life. www.Miamicsl. org text or message or contact us at (305) 993 9018

RENT/LEASE • WEST PALM BEACH PB COUNTY-LAKE PARK 2/1 CONDO 2nd Floor Corner - Next to Kelsey Park across from Intracoastal Great Locations. $750 per month - 1 year Lease • No Pets • No Smoking • 1st & Security Call 561-310-0615

ROOMMATES

Full Charge Bookkeeping Services

MALE ROOMMATE WANTED Male roommate wanted for 2/1/13. Beautiful WPB 2BD/2BA apt to share $650/Mo. Water, Elect, Waste Mgt included. Deposit + 1st. mo. Required.

Call 561-316-7236

January 30, 2013 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

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