5/28/14 V5i22

Page 1

ONE MAGICAL WEEKEND AT GAY DAYS • 22 - 23

NATION CELEBRATES HARVEY MILK STAMP • 23

local name, global coverage

May 28, 2014 // vol. 5 // issue 22

COMPASS BATHROOMS GO GENDER NEUTRAL • 15

SFGN.COM

//

KEY WEST PRIDE CELEBRATES INCLUSION & DIVERSITY • 16

SOFLAGAYNEWS

//

SOUTHFLORIDAGAYNEWS

G O A L L O U T a t t h e ye a r ’s m os t i n c l u s ive s p o r t i ng event www. 20 1 4 G ay G a m e s .co m


SouthFloridaGayNews.com

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

Compiled by Nicole Wiesenthal

Gay Eagle Scout Asks Amazon.com to Stop Donations to Boy Scouts

1 2 3

A gay Eagle Scout from Maryland, a Seattle Scoutmaster who was fired for his sexual orientation and their supporters presented a petition Wednesday at Amazon. com’s headquarters urging the company to suspend donations to the Boy Scouts of America. Pascal Tessier, 17, of Kensington, Md., and

Geoff McGrath, 49, say donations through the AmazonSmile program should be suspended until the Boy Scouts lifts its ban on gay leaders. They said they had 125,000 signatures gathered through Change.org in the boxes they delivered to Amazon. From the Associated Press.

RuPaul Responds to Criticism of Transphobia

RuPaul and his popular reality show “RuPaul’s Drag Race” has come under fire this season for using anti-trans language, like “tranny” and “she-mail,” which offended some. Now the iconic drag queen has responded to the controversy in a new interview with comedian Marc Maron. RuPaul explained on Maron’s WTF Podcast that he is not bothered by the word “tranny” and that he loves the word. Maron

said that a number of people in the trans community are offended by the use of the word and Ru explained his views on the language. Ru also talked about the producer’s decision to re-edit most of the recentlyended season to cut out the host saying the word “she-mail” in every episode. From our media partner Edge.

Gay Customer Called Slur, Beaten in Store A man is charged with aggravated assault after a gay slur escalated into a violent attack inside an East Nashville convenience store. William Eugene Massey was arrested after the May 18 incident at the Z-Mart on Dickerson Pike. According to a Davidson County affidavit, Massey was holding beer while waiting in line at the register. Another man asked him “Where’s the party at?” and

Massey allegedly responded with a gay slur. Massey allegedly went back to his car and told another person to help him “handle that.” The pair went back inside the market and punched the victim in the head and face, causing the man to lose consciousness, police said. The victim needed 13 stitches on his face. From our media partner CNN.

MAY 28, 2014 • VOLUME 5 • ISSUE 22

2520 N. DIXIE HIGHWAY • WILTON MANORS, FL 33305 PHONE: 954-530-4970 FAX: 954-530-7943

PUBLISHER • NORM KENT NORM.KENT@SFGN.COM

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER • PIER ANGELO GUIDUGLI

ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER • JASON PARSLEY JASON.PARSLEY@SFGN.COM

Editorial

ART DIRECTOR • DAVE GRIFFITHS ARTWORK@SFGN.COM ONLINE PRODUCER • DENNIS JOZEFOWICZ DENNIS.JOZEFOWICZ@SFGN.COM SOCIAL MEDIA DIRECTOR • SERGIO CANDIDO SERGIO.CANDIDO@SFGN.COM ARTS/ENTERTAINMENT EDITOR • JW ARNOLD JW@PRDCONLINE.COM NEWS EDITOR • JOHN MCDONALD JEANMICHELMCDONALD@GMAIL.COM NEWS INTERN • NICOLE WIESENTHAL

Senior Features Correspondents

JESSE MONTEAGUDO • TONY ADAMS

Correspondents

ANDREA RICHARD • DONALD CAVANAUGH CHRISTIANA LILLY • DENISE ROYAL • SEAN MCSHEE DORI ZINN • GARY KRAMER • DAVID-ELIJAH NAHMOD

Contributing Columnists

BRIAN MCNAUGHT • DANA RUDOLPH • WAYNE BESEN RIC REILY • STEVE SILER • BIL BROWNING TERRI SCHLICHENMEYER

Staff Photographers

J.R. DAVIS • POMPANO BILL • STEVEN SHIRES

Sales & Marketing

DIRECTOR OF SALES & MARKETING • MIKE TROTTIER MIKE.TROTTIER@SFGN.COM SALES MANAGER • JUSTIN WYSE JUSTIN.WYSE@SFGN.COM ADVERTISING SALES ASSOCIATE • EDWIN NEIMANN EDWIN.NEIMANN@SFGN.COM SALES ASSISTANT • JASON GONZALES JASON.GONZALES@SFGN.COM DISTRIBUTION SERVICES • BRIAN SWINFORD NATIONAL ADVERTISING RIVENDELL MEDIA 212-242-6863 SALES@RIVENDELLMEDIA.COM ACCOUNTING SERVICES BY CG BOOKKEEPING

Cover:

HIV Criminalization in the Military Photo: Wikipedia

South Florida Gay News is published weekly. The opinions expressed in columns, stories, and letters to the editor do not represent the opinions of SFGN, or the Publisher. You should not presume the sexual orientation of individuals based on their names or pictorial representations. Furthermore the word “gay” in SFGN should be interpreted to be inclusive of the entire LGBT community. All of the material/columns that appears in print and online, including articles used in conjunction with the AP, is protected under federal copyright and intellectual property laws, and is jealously guarded by the newspaper. Nothing published may be reprinted in whole or part without getting written consent from the Publisher, at his law office, at Norm@NormKent.com. SFGN, as a private corporation, reserves the right to enforce its own standards regarding the suitability of advertising copy, illustrations and photographs.

Associated Press

Copyright © 2014 South Florida Gay News.com, Inc.

2

// 5.28.2014 // SFGN.com //

soflagaynews //

SouthFloridaGayNews


Before the sweet nothings, whisper something that can keep him safe.

Protect yourself and your partner. Talk about testing, your status, condoms, and new options like medicines that prevent and treat HIV. Get the facts and tips on how to start the conversation at cdc.gov/ActAgainstAIDS/StartTalking

Follow us online at:

facebook.com/StartTalkingHIV soflagaynews //

@TalkHIV

SouthFloridaGayNews // SFGN.com // 5.28.2014 //

3


news highlight

Michigan Kills LGBT Ordinance Councilman compares LGBT and allies to Nazi youth Nicole Wiesenthal On May 21, in small town Saginaw, Michigan, the city council struck down a nondiscrimination ordinance act, voting 9-0 against it. During the conference, supporters of the bill argued that it would be good for local business to end discrimination, showing support for LGBT and ally entrepreneurs, according to the Huffington Post. According to Michigan Live, during the conference, in an argument against supporters, Councilman Dan Fitzpatrick compared gays and LGBT allies to Nazis. Fitzpatrick said, “Most people know my position. What I’m totally amazed at is a number of people I’ve talked to or heard from say, ‘Come on, just pass this thing.’ Find out what it means later. Well how does that sound? Doesn’t matter if it’s bad, fix it. Fix it later. It’s going to happen eventually; just get with it. Be progressive. In about 1933 there was a real big youth movement in Germany called the party of national socialists. A lot of people said, ‘you know, I don’t like them. I don’t know; I don’t understand. But, man, they’re good for business.”

4

// 5.28.2014 // SFGN.com //

soflagaynews //

SouthFloridaGayNews

Fitzpatrick’s comments sparked controversy. According to Michigan Live, Fitzpatrick tried to fix what he said, stating that he wasn’t comparing gays to Nazis. Fitzpatrick said he was comparing what is happening now to what happened back then. “Just the idea that just because something comes from the youth community, or a small subculture of youth or a subculture of our community, it doesn’t mean it’s necessarily good,” said Fitzpatrick.


soflagaynews //

SouthFloridaGayNews // SFGN.com // 5.28.2014 //

5


News Briefs Compiled by Nicole Wiesenthal

Andrew Garfield, aka The Amazing Spiderman, dressed in drag for the new music video for the Grammy Award-winning indie band Arcade Fire, but the transgender leader of the punk band Against Me! is taking issue with the clip. As Pitchfork reports, Garfield, who stars in “The Amazing SpiderMan,” dresses in women’s clothes, is attacked in a bar and dances around in what appears to be Arcade Fire’s Coachella set from the band’s video for “We Exist,” off their 2013 album “Reflektor.” “Our film follows the story of a young person’s struggle with gender identity,” the video’s description

A

ndrew Garfield stars in the new Summer film, ‘The Amazing Spiderman II’

F

A

The Common Core State Standards Initiative is being attacked by anti-gay groups as being too gay-friendly. CCSSI is an educational initiative that spells out what K-12 students should know in mathematics and language arts at the end of each grade. According to the CCSSI website the initiative aims to provide “clear and consistent learning goals to help prepare students for college, career, and life.” A group of Florida lawmakers disagree with CCSSI’s definition of its purpose. At an anti-CCSSI event in March, Florida State Rep. Charles Van Zant (R) spoke against Common Core, claiming it promotes the LGBT Agenda and that it will turn our children gay. At the event, Zant said in a video posted by ThinkProgress that CCSSI “will promote double-mindedness in state education and attract every one of your children to become as homosexual as they possibly can.” Others have also spoken against the CCSSI including Alabama Tea Party leader Terry Batton who called the test “a Trojan horse at the gate of our educational system.” The extreme negative responses address the American Institutes for Research, a behavior and social science research and evaluation organization, according to the Washington Post. The organization has listed on its website a program called LGBTQI2-S Learning Community which provides an “opportunity for individuals and organizations in the behavioral health, child welfare, juvenile justice, and education systems to learn about strategies for delivering services that can enhance the wellbeing of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, questioning, intersex, or two-spirit (LGBTQI2-S) youth and their families.”

American anti-gay pastor Lou Engle, known for his anti-gay rhetoric planned on visiting Geneva Switzerland as a guest at TheCall, Geneva, an event where people pray, fast, repent and participate in sacrificial worship. Engle was scheduled to speak in Geneva for the event as founder of the original movement in Washington D.C. He cancelled his trip following a campaign by All Out, a 2-million member movement for global equality. “Lou Engle and Scott Lively represent the anti-gay fringe of the U.S. evangelical movement,” said Andres Banks, Executive Director and co-founder of All Out, a 2 million-member global movement for love and equality.” Engle created the original TheCall in Washington D.C. after a woman came to him with $100,000 to “start something with the youth in prayer that’s going to change the destiny of the nation,” Engle said in a video. Engle has been known for his support of Uganda’s ‘Kill the Gays’ bill, which included the death penalty. He also said gays can choose to be heterosexual. Engle is also known for being anti-Muslim. TheCall engages participants in a full day of worship with bands, singers and preachers, according to TheCall website. The participants are also asked to fast for 12 hours. “This anti-gay strategy has worked in the past, and vulnerable LGBT populations have paid the highest price,” Banks said. “We will continue to work with fair-minded citizens across the globe to challenge violent rhetoric with a forceful message of love and equality.”

lorida Legislator: Common Core Will Turn Kids Gay

6

// 5.28.2014 // SFGN.com //

nti-Gay Pastor Cancels Swiss Appearance After Protests

soflagaynews //

Trans Punk Singer Takes Issue with Arcade Fire’s New Music Video

I

ndiana GOP Debates Gay Marriage Line For Platform

As lawmakers continue pushing to ban gay weddings under the Indiana Constitution, state Republicans are debating whether to define marriage as between a man and a woman — a clause removed from the party platform two years ago. The Indiana GOP’s platform committee this week voted to reinsert the language in the document, which serves as an official statement of the party’s values and typically includes sweeping statements such as support for fiscal responsibility. The last platform approved at the party’s 2012 convention did not address gay marriage. But when Republican delegates gather in Fort Wayne next month, they’ll have to decide the party’s official position. Republican delegate Megan Robertson said the fight is divisive. Robertson, who led the lobbying campaign against a proposed marriage ban this year, said the issue “drives a wedge” in the party. “This is an issue where there are a variety of opinions within the Republican Party, so the platform should not take sides on that,” she said. Robertson is counting on a battle at the convention when the roughly 1,700 delegates are asked to take up the measure. Terre Haute lawyer Jim Bopp, perhaps best known for his national efforts to fight campaign finance limits, offered the proposal last week at a meeting of the party’s platform committee. He noted that the language had been in the state party platform through 2010 but was somehow removed in 2012, the last time the platform was altered.

SouthFloridaGayNews

reads on YouTube. But Laura Jane Grace, the lead singer of the popular punk band Against Me!, called out the clip’s direction on Twitter. “Dear @arcadefire, maybe when making a video for a song called ’We Exist’ you should get an actual ‘Trans’ actor instead of Spider-Man?” Grace tweeted Thursday. Against Me!’s newest album “Transgender Dysphoria Blues,” came out earlier this year and deals with Grace’s struggle with gender identity. Grace came out as transgender two years ago. From the Associated Press

W

NBA to Market to LGBT Community

The WNBA is launching a campaign to market specifically to the LGBT community, a move that makes it the first pro league to specifically recruit LGBT fans to its games. With the campaign, the WNBA is capitalizing on what it has known for years: The community makes up a significant portion of its fan base. The difference now is that the league is talking about it publicly and making it a deliberate part of its marketing strategy. The effort, which begins with the launch of a website Wednesday, includes having teams participate in local pride festivals and parades, working with advocacy groups to raise awareness of inclusion through grassroots events, and advertising with lesbian media. A nationally televised pride game will take place between Tulsa and Chicago on Sunday, June 22. All 12 teams will also have some sort of pride initiative over the course of the season. “For us it’s a celebration of diversity and inclusion and recognition of an audience that has been with us very passionately,” WNBA President Laurel Richie said. “This is one of those moments in the ‘W’ where everybody comes together.” It’s taken the league 18 years to take the step, though it had discussions about the possibility previously. Teams have done some promotion locally, sponsoring booths at gay pride events and hosting groups at games.


Home Owners

Hurricane

Flood

LOWEST PREMIUM! FRIENDLY CUSTOMER SERVICE! QUICK QUOTES! 954.522.3800

soflagaynews //

SouthFloridaGayNews // SFGN.com // 5.28.2014 //

7


8

// 5.28.2014 // SFGN.com //

soflagaynews //

SouthFloridaGayNews


soflagaynews //

SouthFloridaGayNews // SFGN.com // 5.28.2014 //

9


10

// 5.28.2014 // SFGN.com //

soflagaynews //

SouthFloridaGayNews


soflagaynews //

SouthFloridaGayNews // SFGN.com // 5.28.2014 //

11


news bites

AMERICAN TAX & INSUR ANCE

Y

Transfer Your Money to a Guaranteed Return Fixed Annuity

F

“e safe return of your money is our top priority.”

Immediate First Year Bonus Interest Rate

by Nicole Wiesenthal

u Sworn Into State Supreme Court

(AP) King County Superior Court Judge Mary Yu was sworn in on May 21 as the newest member of the Washington state Supreme Court, marking the first time the high court has had an openly gay justice. Yu, whose mother is from Mexico and father is from China, is also the first Asian American and first female Hispanic member of the court. Once she is sworn in Tuesday, she will be the sixth woman on the current nine-member court and the second ethnic minority.

acebook Accidentally Suspends User Over Lesbian Kiss Photo

A woman in Italy had her Facebook account suspended after posting a photograph of two women kissing. According to Pink News, Carlotta Trevisan, a 28-year-old mother, posted the stock photograph on Facebook in support of International Day Against Homophobia and Transphobia (IDAHOT). Soon after she had posted it, she began to receive criticism and complaints from Facebook friends, according to Metro. Facebook contacted her with a message stating that she had violated Facebook’s rules regarding “nudity and pornography,” according to the Independent. Trevisan refused to take down the photo, and her account was suspended. Facebook recently apologized for its mistake and unsuspended the account.

T

opeka Approves Same Sex Partner Registry

Photo: Facebook

Photo: Facebook

(AP) The Topeka City Council approved two ordinances aimed at reducing discrimination against LGBT people, after hearing emotional testimony from both sides of the issue. The council on Tuesday approved establishing a city domestic partnership registry for same-sex and opposite-sex couples who are not married. It approved a second ordinance that would ban the city from discriminating in employment and hiring based on gender identity. That measure also requires the city to make a good faith effort to provide health coverage for any city employees registered as part of a domestic partnership, The Topeka Capital-Journal reported.

G

ay Iraq War Veteran Named KW Pride Grand Marshal

* R ATES EFFECTIVE 3/15/2014 SUBJECT TO CHANGE.

12

// 5.28.2014 // SFGN.com //

soflagaynews //

(SFGN) Gay Iraq war veteran, author and LGBT activist Rob Smith will serve as the Grand Marshal for 2014 Key West Pride during multiple events starting on June 11 and culminating in the Pride Parade on June 15. Smith served in the army for five years as an openly gay soldier. He wrote the number 1 bestselling memoir “Closets, Combat and Coming Out: Coming of Age as a Gay Man in the ‘Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell’” era, which is the first Iraq war memoir written by an African-American author. In 2010, Smith was arrested at the White House with 12 other LGBT activists in protest of the “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” law. Since then he has spoken at universities and conferences as an LGBT activist.

SouthFloridaGayNews

Photo: Twitter


news analysis

A Travesty of Justice?

Conviction of HIV positive Army Colonel could have larger implications on HIV criminalization in America Jeromy Carpenter Lieutenant Colonel Kenneth Pinkela of the U.S. Army was sentenced to one year in military prison and recommend for dismissal from service on charges of exposing a younger lieutenant to HIV. Problem is the case is riddled is holes and prosecutors, it doesn’t appear, ever did their due diligence when investigating the charges. Gross miscarriage of justice? Even one former president thinks so. Pinkela’s accuser, who remains anonymous until the appeals process is over, claims that he and Pinkela had consensual sex and that he was exposed to HIV at that time. Pinkela was brought before a military general court martial after several years of waiting for the court to hear his case. He was denied a lawyer, which is against all accepted legal practices in the U.S. Even terror suspects housed in Guantanamo Bay are allowed military legal counsel. According to Pinkela, a Marine Corps captain called him out of the blue in 2008 and asked him if he could mentor a new lieutenant who was nervous about being deployed to Iraq. Pinkela volunteered to mentor the lieutenant and met with them at the Silver Diner in Arlington, Va., not far from where Pinkela worked at the Pentagon. They communicated by email using their military email addresses and by cell phone from that point forward. The calls mostly centered on the young man’s military commander and how much he hated him. Then one September night the young man “drunk dialed” Pinkela and made racist remarks about President Obama, at which point Pinkela cut him off and stopped answering calls from the young lieutenant. Three months later, in December of 2008, Pinkela was in his home with both of his parents when the young man contacted him, claiming he had nowhere to go for New Year’s Eve and was going to be deploying in the next month or two. He then asked if he could come up to Pinkela’s place. According to Pinkela, the man showed up around 8 p.m. but then left to see a friend. According to both Pinkela and his mother’s testimony, there were three dogs in the house who barked at the drop of a pin, and who all slept upstairs with Pinkela or his parents when they met for the holidays. Pinkela didn’t see the young man again until the next morning when he was found sleeping on the couch by Pinkela and his mother as they got up to feed the dogs. After breakfast, they invited the lieutenant to go sightseeing at the war memorials but he declined. In his testimony, the young man says he went to the gym at this time. When Pinkela and his parents returned home that night, the young man declined their invitation to stay for dinner and then left. Several years later, the young man claimed that Pinkela exposed him to HIV and that he contracted the virus as a result. He stated that he came up the stairs in the middle of the night, without waking the dogs, and that he used Pinkela’s shower, which is adjacent to the room where Pinkela’s parents sleep, without his mother hearing and despite the very thin walls in the home. He contends that Pinkela came into the shower with him to assist him in using a “douche hose” which

Pinkela claims didn’t exist. The accuser further claims that he was in physical pain from the hose, but that he proceeded with his preparations for sex anyway. The accuser alluded to their having sex, but never actually confirmed the act. In her testimony, Pinkela’s mother stated that the bathroom walls are so thin that she could “hear Pinkela fart” when he used the bathroom. In his own testimony, the young man said that he made a lot of noise during the douche process because it was very painful. Apparently, there has been no investigation on the part of the prosecution into the factual basis of these allegations. They didn’t search Pinkela’s home to see if he actually had a douche nozzle on his showerhead; they didn’t verify whether or not sounds could be heard through the walls and they have not met the dogs. “In my case there is no testimony or evidence that I actually touched him in any way that could have even ‘exposed’ him to any virus regardless of HIV,” Pinkela said. “That to me is a huge part of these cases. They are medically and evidentially lacking.” Despite his claim, and the testimony of his mother — who was present and heard nothing — the court appears to have believed every claim of the accuser based entirely on faith. Even after receiving thirty letters submitted in Pinkela’s defense, including one from former President Carter, the court still seems to have turned a blind eye. As a possible motive for the allegations, Pinkela proposes that the young man contracted HIV well before meeting him and is attempting to use him as a scapegoat for his own promiscuous behavior likely leading to his contracting HIV. The young man is the son of two high ranking Army officials who are presumably not open minded about homosexuality and not keen on knowing that their son is HIV positive. However, because of regular sexually transmitted infection screenings in the military, it would become public knowledge eventually. Court records show that the lieutenant knew of Pinkela’s HIV status months prior to ever meeting him. Pinkela and his appellate attorneys believe this is the reason the young man came to Pinkela in the first place. When he finally did report his positive status to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, he listed his sex partners as “TNTC” which is an abbreviation for “too numerous to count.” In his testimony to the prosecutor, the young man admitted to several prior occasions of dishonesty. He admits to hacking into Pinkela’s personal email and altering messages sent between he and Pinkela. He also admits to lying to the prosecution at one point. Even knowing this, prosecutors still soflagaynews //

proceeded with the case without investigating. So, why would the military judge that tried Pinkela so willingly accept the testimony of his accuser without any evidence? It’s Pinkela’s theory that the recent scrutiny of the military regarding sexual assaults may have something to do with the gross mishandling of his case. At the time that these allegations were made, there were a number of high profile and very public cases of sexual assault in the military that were cited as being mishandled and at least one theory is that they railroaded Pinkela’s case, with little or no evidence, into a guilty verdict, which will result in his being dismissed from the military with no pension, no health insurance and no compensation for the year that he spent in jail and the subsequent year that he has spent fighting this case, all the while unemployed. Pinkela’s now losing his home in Virginia due to the two years of missed work and the cost of fighting the case — which is currently undergoing the appeals process. Three judges will have an opportunity to review the details and decide whether or not to overturn the original guilty verdict. That Pinkela had no legal counsel, and didn’t even have the opportunity for discovery of evidence from the prosecution has sparked outrage among some. Unfortunately, so many years have passed since the original accusations took place that discovering anything new in the case will be difficult, if not impossible. Critics feel this case is about more than just Pinkela, but rather, about the future of HIV criminalization in America and, while there are different rules for military tribunals than civilian court, upholding Pinkela’s conviction could be a dangerous step in the direction of criminalizing HIV. Indeed, if Pinkela’s case is any indication of the evolving legal precedent on the matter, it could result in countless more cases being perpetrated against those living with HIV in America today. Originally published at hivster.com on May 7th, 2014

SouthFloridaGayNews // SFGN.com // 5.28.2014 // 13


news national

Trans Shelter Opening in California What about Florida? David-Elijah Nahmod The transgender community of the San Francisco is hopeful that the proposed shelter for transwomen will become a reality in the near future. The project is the brainchild of Clair Farley, a transwoman who serves as the associate director of economic development at the San Francisco LGBT Center. Farley told SFGN that 70 percent of transgender people in the Bay Area are unemployed, while 30 percent of the city’s homeless population identifies as LGBT — a sizable number of whom are transgender. “Due to harassment, abuse and neglect they have encountered in shelters, transgender people have been forced to live on the streets,” Farley said in a press release. “Transgender women are specifically impacted by the lack of safe or affordable housing, while experiencing high rates of discrimination in employment and education.” Farley is working on getting the Queens Cottage Shelter and Transition House off the ground so that transgender people will have

14

// 5.28.2014 // SFGN.com //

a safe place to go. It’s hoped that Queen’s Cottage will find a suitable location in Oakland, across the Bay from San Francisco, where rents tend to be cheaper. As of May 19, an Indiegogo campaign for Queens Cottage and Transition House has raised $12,800, that’s more than $7,000 above its original goal of $5,000. Farley now hopes to raise a total of $20,000 by June 5 for this one of a kind project, which will provide transgender people with shelter and more. Food and connections to local resources will be among the services offered. The San Francisco LGBT Center’s Trans Employment Program is partnering with the project. Arianna Lint, director of transgender services at SunServe in Wilton Manors, told SFGN that South Florida’s trans community faces many of the same challenges as their Bay Area counterparts. “Our transgender population shows that 65 percent is homeless and fall below the poverty level of $10,000 or less per

soflagaynews //

year,” she said. Lint explained that on many occasions, transgender people are placed into housing situations that assign shelter based on biological gender. “Eighty percent of the U.S. population claim they know at least one gay or lesbian person, but only 8 percent of the population expresses that they know a transgender individual,” Lint said. “Gender identity and transgender issues need to be on the forefront of any regulations regarding LGBTQ persons.” Lint said that Broward County included transgender people in the county-wide employment non-discrimination policy, and that Wilton Manors has expressed interest

SouthFloridaGayNews

in being the pilot and role model for these regulations. According to Lint, there is a trans-inclusive shelter in Miami, but not in Wilton Manors. Visit www.SunServe.org for more information on its services.


news local Compass Goes Gender Neutral

LGBT community center takes lead on trans friendly bathrooms Nicole Wiesenthal Compass Gay and Lesbian Community Center in Lake Worth is trying to alleviate the stress that comes with being forced to choose a gendered restroom. The center officially went gender neutral in April and attached a sign to each of their bathrooms explaining their decision. “This bathroom is for everyone. There are real impacts when bathrooms are labeled for women or men only,” the sign reads. “Trans & Gender Non-Conforming people often face discrimination, harassment, arrest or violence in bathrooms! We realize sharing a bathroom could feel new and different. We appreciate your understanding.” Ryanmarie Rice, Youth Services Coordinator at Compass, is hoping to create a safe space for everyone at the center. “A lot of people feel harassment in public bathrooms. We use this to reflect something that we’ve always had in place,” Rice said. “I want them to know that it’s a safe place.” Rice says that the changing of the signs was necessary to the center’s vision. “We have an influx of gender

nonconforming and transgender youth,” Rice said. “It’s a sense of relief for people who have anxiety or who worry about safety, harassment or scrutiny to walk into Compass and see the gender neural bathrooms.” Rice said gender-neutral bathroom signs are just one way that Compass is trying to help transgender people feel more comfortable at their center. Compass also started a youth group specifically for transgender people. “We’re enhancing our services,” Rice said. “Things will continue to change and evolve down the line, and we’re willing to adapt as needed.” Julie Seaver, the COO of Compass, said the staff at the center had been talking about going gender neutral for almost a year, but it wasn’t until they attended this year’s National Gay and Lesbian Task Force’s Creating Change

Conference in February that they finally made the decision to officially do it. “There were makeshift signs on every single bathroom in the hotel” proclaiming their gender neutral status at the conference, Seaver said. Those signs were the inspiration behind Compass’ signs. Seaver said it makes sense for an LGBT center to take the lead on something like this. “If we can’t do that here, then where can we?”

WIN YOUR OWN MEDAL in 2014! Register NOW! SAVE $30 on general regstration by 28 February (general registration discount code*: SFGN. Must be used at checkout.)

T H E WO R L D W I L L C O M E TO G E T H E R I N O H I O

TO G E T H E R , W E W I L L M A K E H I STO RY.

P H OTO C O U RT E S Y L A R RY H I G H B AU G H J R .

Male or female bathroom? For most that isn’t a big decision but for transgender people it can be an uncomfortable, overwhelming and even scary one. “I know a lot of people don’t appreciate how scary or how much a nuisance it could be when you’re not welcome in another bathroom,” said Brendon Lies, a 23-Year-Old Florida Atlantic University student, who’s transitioning from female to male. “There’s an actual fear that either you’re going to be yelled at by girls or beaten up by guys. There’s still a lot of rationality behind these fears.” Lies understands how difficult it can be to choose between a male and female restroom. He recalls one experience he had while transitioning. “At the beginning of my transition, I was starting to dress more butch, and I had actually started testosterone a few days prior, and I went in the women’s room because I was still not quite passing as a man, and a woman entered,” Lies said. “I panicked and thought she’d judge me so I literally ran out and hid somewhere until she was gone.”

O N YO U R M A R K ...

G E T S E T...

GAMES. 9 -16 AU G U ST 2014 35+ sports & cultural events Plus festivals, ceremonies performances, parties and more

www.GG9CLE.com soflagaynews //

SouthFloridaGayNews // SFGN.com // 5.28.2014 // 15


community announcement

2014 Key West Pride Inclusive to Whole Community Key West Pride

PEACE

PIPE

T

he Conch Republic shows off it’s diversity at Key West Pride from Wednesday, June 11 to Sunday, June 15

4800 N. DIXIE HIGHWAY, FORT LAUDERDALE JUST SOUTH OF COMMERCIAL BLVD.

Full Charge Bookkeeping Services

16

// 5.28.2014 // SFGN.com //

soflagaynews //

Key West does PRIDE with splashy pool parties, on-the-water adventures, beach parties, late-night dance parties, a race for tutu-wearing competitors, an intriguing film premiere and a lively community, hometown parade. Set for Wednesday through Sunday, June 11-15, the festival spotlights the allaccepting diversity that has helped make Key West an internationally renowned gay and lesbian vacation spot. Key West Pride is to kick off with an allwelcome “Bow Ties & Bubbly” bash set for 5 p.m. Wednesday, June 11, at the acclaimed Island House Resort, 1129 Fleming St. Throughout the week of the festival, attendees can vie for the titles of Mr., Ms. and Miss Key West Pride at evening pageants take advantage of discounts during the Coconut Pride Shop Crawl, or dress in a tutu to race in a wacky 10k relay. Other festival attractions include an acclaimed trolley tour showcasing Key West’s LGBT heritage and hotspots, a marriage equality “meet and greet,” daytime and late-night parties at local clubs and resorts, a “Ghosts & Gravestones” tour spotlighting the island’s spookiest sites, drag shows, a street fair on Key West’s famed Duval Street, a shopping soiree and on-the-water activities ranging from snorkeling to paddle boarding. This year Key West Pride welcomes Rob Smith as its Parade Grand Marshall. Rob is an Iraq war veteran, author, public speaker, and LGBT activist. Rob was one of the activists arrested during a DADT protest at the White House. He was guest of President Obama at the legislation signing ceremony repealing

SouthFloridaGayNews

DADT. His memoir, Closets, Combat, and Coming Out: Coming of Age as a Gay Man in the “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” Army, was released in January 2014. Key West Pride attendees will have the opportunity to personally meet Rob at a book reading/signing event. Among scheduled highlights is the Key West premiere of a film by activist Erin Davies. After her Volkswagen Beetle was defaced with anti-gay graffiti because of its rainbow sticker, she turned the negative act into an inspiring odyssey and filmed her “fag bug’s” journey to all 50 United States. Pride attendees can view the resulting documentary, “Fag Bug Nation,” meet Davies and learn how her rainbow vehicle has become a catalyst for equality. Events are set for 8 p.m. Saturday, June 14, poolside at Alexander’s Guesthouse, 1118 Fleming St and 1 p.m. Sunday, June 15 at Unity of the Keys Spiritual Center. The festival’s culmination is to be the Key West Pride Parade down Duval Street, scheduled at 5 p.m. Sunday, June 15. Master of Ceremony Police Chief Donie Lee will once again escort the parade down Duval Street. This year, for the first time, Chief Lee will be joined by a Joint Military Color Guard. The procession typically features walking groups, a 100-foot rainbow flag, lavishly decorated floats and more. Everyone is invited to participate — whether gay, lesbian, bisexual, straight or transgendered — to celebrate Key West’s enthusiastic diversity. For event information, visit www. keywestpride.org and for Gay Key West visitor information, visit www.gaykeywestfl. com, or call 305.294.4603.


soflagaynews //

SouthFloridaGayNews // SFGN.com // 5.28.2014 // 17


column bil of rights

Do As I Say; Not As I Do

The religious right is a pack of wild-eyed hypocrites Bil Browning Hypocritical religious leaders are hardly a new breed. In the Bible, Jesus reserved his harshest words for Pharisees — the equivalent of modern day religious right ministers and organizational leaders combined with governmental authorities. Christ condemned them as “snakes,” “blind guides,” and a “brood of vipers” for using their influence to castigate and condemn instead of teaching peace and love. Instead of lifting others up, they chose to make life difficult for the poor, women, and minority groups. In Matthew 23, he is quoted as saying, “Woe to you, teachers of the law and Pharisees, you hypocrites! You are like whitewashed tombs, which look beautiful on the outside but on the inside are full of the bones of the dead and everything unclean. In the same way, on the outside you appear to people as righteous but on the inside you are full of hypocrisy and wickedness.” Religious right leaders like Tony Perkins, Bryan Fischer, and Matt Barber have picked up the Pharisees sandals over the past couple of decades and, sadly, they seem to have missed most of the lessons taught by the savior they claim to worship. In all reality, the Jesus described in the Bible would likely not recognize them as followers since they refuse to listen to his teachings. Barber, head of the Liberty Counsel, urged governors of states that have had their antimarriage equality laws overturned in the courts to defy the rulings, saying, “It’s time for governors to reject these opinions, and that’s what they are. [They need to] say ‘No thank you, we are a sovereign state and we are going to adhere to our constitution in this state.’” Barber’s organization is a legal group and yet he’s literally advocating that politicians ignore the rule of law. Fischer, a talk radio host and bigwig at the American Family Association has gone down a similar route. Following the court ruling that overturned Idaho’s constitutional amendment, he tweeted, “Governor should ignore unconstitutional ruling. Overthrow of federal tyranny can begin today in Idaho if governor orders clerks not to issue same-sex marriage licenses.” In the New Testament, Israel had been conquered by the Roman Empire during Jesus’ time. Many of his followers urged him to defy the government and set up his own faith-based regime. After all, how can you lose

18

// 5.28.2014 // SFGN.com //

soflagaynews //

SouthFloridaGayNews

when you’re the Son of God? Christ, however, wasn’t interested. He instructed his followers to pay their taxes, follow the law, and respect authority. Perkins, head of the Family Research Council and a regular talking head on television news programs, takes things a step further. His organization has been designated a “hate group” by the Southern Poverty Law

Center and he has long-standing ties to the Ku Klux Klan. Speaking on the radio, Perkins proclaimed that pro-gay Christians shouldn’t have the same religious rights that conservatives do because “true religious freedom” only applies to “orthodox religious viewpoints.” Not only does Perkins want to deprive secular Americans of their freedoms, now any Christians outside of his own far right circle are suspect. Christ, however, even went so far as to tell his followers to respect the authorities of his day and follow the secular law — while ignoring their obvious religious hypocrisy. “The teachers of the law and the Pharisees sit in Moses’ seat. So you must be careful to do everything they tell you. But do not do what they do, for they do not practice what they preach. They tie up heavy, cumbersome loads and put them on other people’s shoulders, but they themselves are not willing to lift a finger to move them.” Maybe it’s time for these puffed up Puritans to take a dose of their own medicine.


column our words

uGIVE? iGIVE

The art of giving.. together Anthony Timiraos, CEO/President, Our Fund, Inc. atimiraos@our-fund.org

Social investment networking also known as “crowdsourcing” is a form of shared giving that helps provide donors with significant impact from their gifts and includes them in a network of like-minded members who care about their community. The impact of their gift is created by soliciting contributions from a large group of people thereby providing larger more impactful grants to organizations who focus on specific issues in their community. The concept of shared giving is not new — raising money from many donors during a weather disaster to help those in a specific community who are in need is one of many examples. There are approximately 400 Giving Circles documented nationwide focusing mostly on local community needs. Today’s donors view their gifts as an investment in their community. In exchange for their gifts, just like an investment in a business or in the stock market, donors want to see “returns” and in philanthropy, that means “impact.” What did their gift accomplish? How did they make a difference in the lives of other members in their community? How efficiently was their investment managed? Organizations that provide the right answers to these questions usually have a higher percentage of repeat donors. How do we continue to increase philanthropic giving and create greater impact in South Florida’s LGBT community? It’s easy — encourage more donors to join us at the table. How do we get them to respond to the invitation? Not so easy — but introducing them to giving circles focused on our local LGBT community that provides communications describing the impact of their gifts is a good start. Our Fund has now created new giving programs targeting two distinct donor markets. The first program is called “iGIVE Society” and targets a select group of philanthropists who make a significant minimum annual personal commitment of $1,500. Their support provides specific general grants for non-profit organizations serving the LGBT community in South Florida and funding for the program activity and operations of Our Fund.

Members are considered an integral part of Our Fund, provide feedback in our work and are recognized at Our Fund events, in our annual report, receive invitations to exclusive donor receptions and become part of a charitable society that increases the effectiveness and impact of their gifts. The second new gift-giving program is called “iGIVE Network” which targets new and younger donors and introduces them to local philanthropy. Members of this giving program can make a credit card gift of $10 to $120 per month into a pooled Fund administered by Our Fund that also supports organizations serving the LGBT community in South Florida and the programs and operations of Our Fund. Grant recommendations will be coordinated by a leadership team of donors in this program selected by our Board of Directors and the members will be recognized at special events, in our annual report, and receive invitations to exclusive quarterly iGIVE Network receptions, where they can get to know each other and learn more about our community’s needs and the organizations that this group will support. The operating support you provide directly to your favorite non-profit organization is crucial to their success and as long as they are accomplishing your charitable goals, their work is deserving of your continued support. Helping our LGBT community through a giftgiving program like iGIVE, provides Our Fund with the flexibility to shift financial support where it is needed the most and creates a stronger impact. Both strategies should be included as part of your philanthropic plans. For more information about iGIVE, visit www.our-fund.org/igive. Our Fund is a tax-exempt non-profit organization with a mission to promote a culture of philanthropy by uniting donors with organizations supporting the LGBT community. Focused on expanding philanthropy in South Florida and working to develop stronger nonprofit organizations, South Florida’s only LGBT community foundation has been established to help build endowments that support donor’s charitable interests including organizations providing services throughout the LGBT community. soflagaynews //

SouthFloridaGayNews // SFGN.com // 5.28.2014 // 19


column by the bi

Bisexual Legends

Recalling important moments in bisexual history from the 60’s and 70’s Faith Cheltenham thefayth@gmail.com

A new LGBT history museum exhibit, “Biconic Flashpoints: 4 Decades of Bay Area Bisexual Politics,” opening in San Francisco, explores some of the important points of bisexual history from the last 40 years. In honor of this amazing exhibit, here are some more major moments in bisexual history.

S

tephen Donaldson

Photo: Robert Giard

M

argo Rila, left, and Maggie Rubenstein

Photo: Ms. Magazine

1966 - Bisexual activist and bi icon Stephen Donaldson, or “Donny the Punk” as he was better known, founded the Student Homophile League at Columbia University and New York University; the first gay student group. A former lover of gay rights icon Frank Kameny, Donaldson fell in love with a woman and wrote that he, “took a lot of flak from the leaders of other homophile organizations for being bi.” Before dying of AIDS in 1996, Donaldson was active in the bisexual, pacifist, veterans and prisoners rights movements. 1967 – Margo Rila and Frank Esposito established the Sexual Freedom League, a rap group for bisexuals in San Francisco. 1968 – Bi Alliance begins at the University of Minnesota. It offers groups for women, for men and a newsletter. 1969 – In New York City, Brenda Howard (known as the ‘Mother of Pride’) conceived and coordinated the first anniversary of the Stonewall riots. The annual New York City Pride march then spawned Pride marches around the country and the world.

Brenda Howard

Photo: LGBT Nation

1972 – Bill Beasley, veteran of black civil rights movement was the core organizer of the first Los Angeles Gay Pride March and is active with Gay Liberation Front. In 1994, board members of the San Francisco Gay and Lesbian Freedom Day Parade, bisexual leaders Matthew L. Le Grant and Bill Beasley succeed in changing the organization’s name to include bisexual and transgender. 1973 – Woody Glenn is interviewed as an out bi activist on a National Organization for Women radio program on WICC in Bridgeport, Conn.

B

ill Beasley

Photo: SF Pride/Chris Boyd

20

// 5.28.2014 // SFGN.com //

1974 – Dr. Fritz Klein co-founded the Bi Forum in New York City with his friend Chuck. Klein later founded the American Institute of Bisexuality, created the Journal of Bisexuality soflagaynews //

and introduced the Klein Sexual Orientation Grid in his book, “The bisexual option: A concept of onehundred percent intimacy. 1975 – Jeff Davidson founds the Bisexual Group in Philadelphia. 1975 – Activist Carol Queen comes out as bi and organizes GAYouth in Eugene, Ore. 1976 – Harriet Levi and Maggi Rubenstein found the San Francisco Bisexual Center. The Center offers social events, counseling services, a newsletter, speakers bureau and sponsors a bisexual contingent in the annual San Francisco Gay Pride march. Rubenstein goes on to co-found three major sex education institutions in San Francisco including the Glide Memorial Church’s National Sex Forum, the San Francisco Sex Information Hotline and the Institute for the Advanced Study of Human Sexuality. 1977 – Latino Bisexual activist Alexei Guren founds the Gay Teen Task Force (now known as Pridelines Youth Services) in Miami as a response to Anita Bryant’s antigay “Save Our Children” campaign.

Fritz Dr.Klein

Photo: San Francisco Chronicle

Carol Queen

Photo: Charles Haynes/Wikipedia

1978 – A. Billy S. Jones co-founds the National Coalition of Black Lesbians and Gays in Washington, D.C. Bisexual and transgender people are included in its bylaws, mission and outreach. 1978 – Scott Bartell and Gary Lingen found the group One to Five, a social and support group in Minneapolis/St. Paul. Grassroots bisexual communities grow with Midwest support groups, including Bi Married Men (Detroit suburbs) and Chicago’s Bi Ways. 1979 – Abilly S. Jones-Hennin, serves as logistics coordinator for the first National March on Washington for Lesbian and Gay Rights.

Alexei Guren

Photo: BiNet USA

Oct. 14, 1979 – On the same weekend, Jones-Hennin co-organizes the Third World Conference to draw attention to LGBT people of color. Audre Lorde delivers the keynote speech. Special thanks to Lani Ka’ahumanu, Bialogue, and the New York Area Bisexual Network for data collection.

SouthFloridaGayNews

Billy S. A.Jones-Hennin Photo: Metro Weekly


letters to the editor

Charlie Crist Did Not Leave GOP Because of Racism and Homophobia Dear Editor: Your article highlighting Charlie Crist’s phony excuse for leaving the Republican Party because of racism and homophobia is very disappointing and quite frankly, irresponsible at best. South Florida Gay News is a well respected LGBT publication with a large statewide and national readership. I feel it is my duty, as a self identified, gay, libertarian Republican, to offer a rebuttal against these outrageous and false claims made by Former Governor Crist, all in an attempt to bait and divide Floridians. Where shall I begin? As an egotistical, career politician, Charlie Crist registered in three parties in three years. First he is a conservative “Ronald Reagan” Republican, then an Independent, now, a self professed “Pro-Life” Democrat. Frankly, many of my gay Democrat friends silently find “compassionate” Charlie Crist despicably opportunistic, and untrustworthy. Many are also enraged over

his continued refusal to debate a qualified, and loyal Democrat, Sen. Nan Rich, of Weston, who has a consistent record of progressive accomplishments while serving in the State Senate. Charlie Crist cites racism for leaving the GOP, really?? Charlie Crist was defeated by a Hispanic Republican, Marco Rubio, and the African American Democrat, Kendrick Meek, faced pressure from Crist, and his cronies, to drop out of the race. So much for showing respect to the first African American to run for a Senate seat in Florida. The bottom line is Crist couldn’t win a primary against Rubio, so he became an Independent. Then, he couldn’t win in a three way race as an Independent, so, he goes to work for the richest trial lawyer in the Southeast, John Morgan, and the re-invention of chameleon Charlie to the Democratic Party begins. Homophobia? Please. Charlie Crist is the Governor who gave us Amendment 2, in 2008, which defines marriage as a union between one

soflagaynews //

man and one woman. Charlie Crist, as recently as the 2010 Senate campaign, said the following: “I support the traditional definition of marriage and I believe marriage is a sacred institution between one man and one woman” How soon some in the Democratic Party forget considering we all now have to live with this discriminatory ban. Many LGBT voters do not trust Charlie Crist for the huge 4 billion budget deficit he left Florida with while he tried to skip town, and head to Washington as a Senator for another career politician pension. As a long-time reader of your publication, going forward, please consider providing us election coverage that does not assume we are all gullible, naive, bubble heads buying into the contrived headlines of racism and homophobia. I expect more from a publication that has a very large and diverse readership. A Faithful reader, Shane Pagano, Orlando, Florida

SouthFloridaGayNews // SFGN.com // 5.28.2014 // 21


DJ Danny Verde By Denise Royal

DJ Andy Ajar

DJ Brett Henrichsen

Twisted Dee Martello DJ Sr. Edu

The happiest place on earth will become one of the gayest places on earth when One Magical Weekend takes over Disney World in Orlando. The event attracts more than 160,000 people from around the world to the central Florida area. The festivities generate more than $600 million in economic benefits. One Magical Weekend is one of the premier parties in the LGBT circuit and of the annual Gay Days week in Orlando. It features DJ’s from all over the country including the acclaimed Twisted Dee and Brett Henrichsen. The highlight of the weekend is RipTide, at Disney’s Lagoon Waterpark. It’s an aquatic spectacle featuring spirits, splash and celebration! Come witness 6,000 people screaming down the water ride and surfing the tidal wave at the 52acre world-class waterpark. The party goes on from 7 p.m. to 2 a.m. Former Fort Lauderdale resident Mark Rowe now lives in Los Angeles. He had so much fun at past weekends in Orlando, that he’s flying across the country to attend this year. “The traditional red shirt let’s you see who is celebrating a sort of Pride in the Magic Kingdom, but the spirit is contagious, and I love the reaction by straight guests... many who I chatted with who said they had a blast and said everyone was incredibly fun. There’s a lot more interaction with everyone in the park that day. The celebration brings people together no matter what their orientation,” said Rowe. Ticket prices for One Magical Weekend start at $30 (although you’ll probably want to pay more than that.) For so much fun that’s just a few hours away, how can you go wrong? Put on a red t-shirt and head 250 miles north! And remember, what happens in Orlando, stays in Orlando! For more details on One Magical Weekend, visitwww.onemagicalweekend.com SFGN, is a proud sponsor of One Magical Weekend

Weekend Highlights

Friday Riptide at Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon Waterpark Saturday Wear your red shirts to Magic Kingdom Saturday Night WE Party: Vogue at Epcot’s World Showplace Sunday Drink Around the World and E-Tea Dance at Epcot’s World Showplace

22

// 5.28.2014 // SFGN.com //

soflagaynews //

SouthFloridaGayNews


soflagaynews //

SouthFloridaGayNews // SFGN.com // 5.28.2014 //23


news feature

From Sea to Shining Sea:

Nation Celebrates Harvey Milk Stamp

Ceremonies held at the White House and in San Francisco Respected political leaders gathered at the White House last Thursday to unveil a new U.S. postage stamp commemorating slain gay rights leader Harvey Milk, while on the same day political leaders, activists and celebrities gathered on the other side of the country in San Fran for the same purpose. The first-day-of-issue dedication took place on what would have been Milk’s 84th birthday. The “forever” stamp bears an iconic image of Milk taken in 1977 in front of Castro Street Camera in San Francisco. In San Fran an enthusiastic crowd of about one hundred gathered at Harvey Milk Plaza in the heart of the city’s gay neighborhood “The Castro.” Forty-two years earlier, Milk gave his first political speech only a few feet away from where the group stood. It was the second year in a row the White House held a ceremony for Harvey Milk Day, which takes place annually on May 22. Last year, it recognized the achievements of elected and appointed lesbian and gay officials across the country. Last week’s White House event featured many speakers, including Stuart Milk, cofounder of the Harvey Milk Foundation and Harvey’s nephew, and House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi (D-San Francisco). “He said his victory signaled a green light to all those who feel disenfranchised, a green light to move forward and that the doors are open to everyone,” Pelosi said. “Thanks to Harvey, our society is better forever. Together, we’ll finish the work Harvey started.” While in San Fran the man that now holds Milk’s former council seat, openly gay Supervisor Scott Wiener, said “The unveiling wouldn’t be complete if we didn’t have a down home celebration in the Castro. It’s where Harvey is from. We’ve made so much progress: marriage equality, repeal of Don’t Ask Don’t Tell,

it’s so important to have visibility.” Rep. John Lewis (D-Georgia), a veteran of the civil rights movement, noted at the White House that Milk’s activism came during one of the last social revolutions in American history. “The tiny ripples that began more than 40 years ago began a tidal wave that swept through the Supreme Court and the nation, liberating gay couples in states around the country,” Lewis said. “So, thank you, Harvey Milk.” Perhaps the most engaging talk at the White House was delivered by the United States Ambassador to the United Nations, Samantha Powers, echoing the theme Milk himself became known for, ‘ hope and change.’ Cleve Jones, a long time activist and personal friend of Milk’s, and screenwriter Dustin Lance Black also showed up to the San Fran ceremony. “Happy Birthday Harvey!” Jones proclaimed, with his fist in the air. In a nod to Milk’s activism Jones and Black spent that morning at the post office giving out postcards to bring awareness to the situation in Brunei where Sharia law was recently enacted and calls for the death of homosexuals. The Sultan of Brunei happens to be one of the owners of the Beverly Hills Hotel in Beverly Hills, Cali., and activists have called for boycotts of the hotel. “Change your laws or sell your hotel!” reads the card. “I was invited to go to Washington D.C. to be at the White House unveiling,” Black told SFGN. “After giving it some thought, I went back to ‘what would Harvey do?’” Black felt that staying in town and taking a stand against the Sultan was what he had to do. Congresswoman Debbie WassermanSchultz also attended the White House ceremony, along with Rea Carey, the Executive Director of the National Gay and Lesbian Task Force. Gay publishers Norm Kent from South Florida Gay News and Tom Dyer from Orlando’s

Staff Reports

Watermark were also participants in the event, which included separate receptions at the Lithuanian embassy to celebrate Milk’s heritage and the foundation’s global outreach. Milk’s former colleague Anne Kronenberg added one moment of levity, at the otherwise solemn ceremony at the White House. “It is pretty ironic that Harvey is on a postage stamp. When we ran his campaign in 1977, we did not have enough money to even mail out his brochure. We had no money for postage.” The final ceremony included a reception sponsored by the Victory Institute at Washington’s Columbia Club, where Daniel Nicoletta, the stamp’s photographer, autographed the first day issue. Postal officials indicated the stamp was selling “briskly.” Broadcast live on the Internet, the program was received well internationally. It culminated with a performance of ‘Same Love’ by lesbian artist Mary Lambert, recently seen at the Grammys. For San Fran tourist Michael Frost, who lives in a small conservative town, attending the unveiling was especially meaningful. “I’m only recently out in the last five years,” said Frost, 41. “Many people in the town are closeted because it’s rural. I’m here to see where my peeps are, and this is a wonderful surprise. I’m overjoyed! It’s bringing me to tears.” Branton Burke, editor of California Stamp News, reports that the Castro post office sold out it’s stock of 10,000 Milk stamps in less than three hours. Milk became the first openly gay public official in California when he won a seat on the San Francisco Board of Supervisors in 1977. He was assassinated a year later alongside then-Mayor George Moscone on Nov. 27, 1978. SFGN San Francisco correspondent David Nahmod contributed to this report.

Agree or Disagree? Nominate your own choices for 2015’s OUT 50 at www.SFGN.com/out50Nominations 24

// 5.28.2014 // SFGN.com //

soflagaynews //

SouthFloridaGayNews


column jesse’s journal

Hit-and-Runs in the Sunshine State Jesse Monteagudo

In my recent article about the crimes, follies and misfortunes in “FloriDUH” I pointed out that the Sunshine State’s car culture is just as deadly as its out of control firearms. A car, van, truck or motorcycle – like any other weapon – often heightens the owner’s sense of power and lower the inhibitions. Pedestrians often take our lives in our hands when we go out for a walk in our car-happy suburbs. I take long walks for exercise: and when I cross a street I make sure to use a crosswalk, look in both directions and wait for the light to change. This is not enough to keep some anxious motorists from looking at me as if I was intruding onto their territory. Even when the signal favors me I have to watch out for drivers who insist on going through, against the light and at my expense. Though drive-by shootings lead television news programs, Florida’s most deadly vehicle related crimes are hit-andrun accidents. According to a 2009 study by the nonprofit group Transportation for America, four of the top 10 cities with the highest rates of pedestrian fatalities are in Florida: Miami, Orlando, Tampa and Jacksonville. According to the Florida Highway Patrol, in 2012 there were nearly 70,000 hit-and-run crashes in the Sunshine State, in which nearly 17,000 people were injured and 166 people died. Three out of every five fatalities in 2012 were pedestrians struck in hit-and-run crashes. According to the Sun-Sentinel, “in Broward, Palm Beach and Miami-Dade Counties, a hit-andrun fatality occurs weekly. Statewide, an average of 3.2 people are killed every week by a hit-andrun driver.” Even when the victims survive, the effect of the hit-and-run crashes on their lives and careers are devastating. Just a few recent examples of hit-and-run death and injury will suffice. On March 26 in Miramar a tractor-trailer fatally struck Diana Gonzalez’s wheelchair and dragged her for at least a block. The driver, Eric Ramsey, did not realize what he had done until he was flagged down by other motorists. On April 2 in Hallandale Beach, Fla., Gerard Roderick Hood was charged with leaving the scene of an accident after he fatally struck a man driving a motorized bicycle. On April 6 in Weston a hit-and-run driver struck and seriously injured a pedestrian. Then on April 10 in the Orlando area Robert Corchado rammed his Dodge Durango into the back of a Toyota Solara driven by Albert Dean Campbell, sending Campbell’s car crashing into a KinderCare day care center full of children. A dozen children were hospitalized and one, four-year old, Lily Quintus, subsequently died. Needless to say, Corchado didn’t stay behind

to witness the mayhem he caused. Why are there are so many hit-and-runs? According to the Florida Car Accident Lawyer Blog, there are three main reasons: 1) Drivers who have something to hide. Drivers who are driving unlicensed or uninsured typically want to avoid taking responsibility for an accident because they fear jail time. Many of them also have police records. Though only 28, Corchado already has a string of arrests ranging from battery in 1999 to marijuana possession, resisting arrest, disorderly conduct and probation violations. 2) Design flaws. According to Transportation for America, hit-and-run car accidents in Miami and other cities result in part from poor city planning and design. According to the group, the focus over the years has been on suburban and urban sprawl, leaving few safe spaces for walkers and bicycles. This, of course, does not excuse the guilty motorist from leaving the scene of the crime. 3) Distracted driving. When drivers are distracted due to mobile phones, passengers, pets, or for some other reason, they may not notice pedestrians in time. Distracted driving can easily lead to a pedestrian accident in Miami or another community. To those reasons we should also add the use of alcohol or drugs while driving; not to mention the fact that many motorists are here illegally, temporarily or on vacation. And while Florida makes it illegal to leave the scene of an accident without offering assistance and without exchanging contact information with the other driver, too many motorists do just that, afraid that things would be worse for them if they stayed. A drunk driver who stays behind to help gets four years in jail. If the driver leaves the accident she or he has an opportunity to get sober and possibly avoid a jail sentence. “The law should not make it easier on you because you left the scene,” said Florida State Senator Miguel Diaz de la Portilla, R-Miami. Bowing to popular demand, Diaz de la Portilla and other state legislators have worked on a law that would increase the minimum sentences for hit-and-run accidents. Named the Aaron Cohen Life Protection Act after a bicyclist who was killed in a 2012 hit-and-run on the Rickenbacker Causeway, this is a “tough-on-crime” bill that would stiffen mandatory sentences for those who flee the scene of an accident with fatal injuries. The Aaron Cohen Act will not do away with hit-and-run crashes in Florida. But it should make some folks think twice before leaving the scene of an accident. soflagaynews //

SouthFloridaGayNews // SFGN.com // 5.28.2014 //25


lifestyle the book worm

“Frog Music”

A novel by Emma Donoghue Terri Schlichenmeyer Once, it was the most natural question in the world: why? With a child’s usual curiosity, you asked it incessantly. Why are dogs black? Why’s the sun hot? Why do birds fly away? Why? You drove your mother nuts. But as you aged, answers came easier and “Why?” grew faint. You didn’t need to ask “why” so much - except, as in the new novel “Frog Music” by Emma Donoghue, you needed the reason for a tragedy. Long after Jenny Bonnet was dead, Blanche Beunon wondered if it was truly an accident that Bonnet ran her over with a penny farthing. She said she hadn’t meant it, but she’d known fully well who Beunon was; Bonnet had seen her dance at the House of Mirrors, which made Beunon oddly embarrassed. So was it really an accident that a wandering woman in men’s clothing became acquainted with a burlesque dancer? That was just one of the things Beunon pondered as she ran. Though she’d only

26

// 5.28.2014 // SFGN.com //

known Bonnet for a few days, they’d become fast friends. Even Arthur, Beunon’s amour since she was just 15, seemed amused by Bonnet’s devil-may-care attitude and by the gun she casually carried in the pocket of her trousers. Arthur’s friend, Ernest wasn’t quite as taken with Bonnet – but Beunon wondered if that was because Bonnet’s presence seemed to affect their ménage à trois. Then again, Ernest was an odd duck, ever since their circus days. He’d been Arthur’s protégé, his best friend. Once Beunon became part of the Le Cirque d’Hiver, it was just the three of them and Ernest never seemed to mind. Until P’tit was born. Until Jenny entered the picture. Those were the things Beunon considered as she wandered the streets of Chinatown, nearly melting from the heat, avoiding buildings quarantined for smallpox. Were things falling apart before she brought P’tit home? Or was it, as Ernest claimed, all because of Bonnet and her strange life?

soflagaynews //

How much did Beunon really know about Bonnet? Or Arthur, for that matter? She wondered, as she tried to find ways to get money to live, and as she remembered the sight of Jenny’s bloody body lying on a bed. With its bounce-around, “Pulp Fiction”-like format, “Frog Music” is confusing at first. It begins with a spectacularly bloody murder and proceeds with the heroine looking for the man she’s sure killed her friend. But did he? Author Donoghue keeps her readers guessing, but we’re not merely caught up in a murder mystery. No, Beunon herself, is just as much an enigma as the crime she’s trying to solve. I briefly even wondered if the character was imagining her surroundings,

SouthFloridaGayNews

so ethereal is Donoghue’s writing at times. And that brings me to the best part: it’s not entirely imagined. This tale is wound around the real unsolved murder of Jenny Bonnet, killed near San Francisco in 1876. That authenticity, a Donoghue signature, lends definite richness to “Frog Music,” making it a book I don’t think you should miss. Why would you?


lifestyle gay car geek

Drive This, Not That 2014 BMW 650i Gran Coupe vs. 2014 Audi S7 – Battle of the ‘Ballers’ Steve Siler

Winner: 2014 Audi S7 Like most gays, I love BMWs. And the saucy, muscular 650i Gran Coupe is the BMW equivalent of speedo-clad Joe Manganiello emerging from a tropical lagoon… yeah, I wouldn’t kick it out of bed for eatin’ crackers. But the Audi S7 wins this matchup for a number of reasons: the S7 is arguably just as good-looking as the 650i, albeit in more of a refined, Ryan Gosling sort of way.

to the 650i xDrive’s 445-hp V-8 in the in terms of forward thrust and handling, thanks to a bit less overall vehicle weight, something that also improves fuel economy. Factor in the S7’s base price, which is more than $12K lower than that of an all-wheeldrive 650i xDrive, and it’s “Audios,” BMW, this one goes to the S7. 2014 AUDI S7

It’s also more practical—by a bunch— with a hatchback body that doesn’t sacrifice a shred of style while gaining added utility. The back seat is larger, too, in case you get to take the real Ryan Gosling (or a reasonable facsimile thereof) for a “ride,” and the material quality is simply spectacular, especially if you get the black wood with inlaid aluminum pinstripes. Its sonorous 420-hp V8 and all-wheel drive give nothing

2014 BMW 650i GRAN COUPE Steve Siler has turned his life-long love of cars into an enthusiastic career traveling the world to report on new automobiles as they are introduced. He is a regular contributor to Car and Driver Magazine, AutoTrader.com, AOL Autos, Yahoo! Autos, and the New York Daily News. You can follow his musings @silerroad on Twitter.

soflagaynews //

SouthFloridaGayNews // SFGN.com // 5.28.2014 //27


column

What’s an important story this week that should be noted?

This week SFGN launches “Speak OUT” a weekly feature giving a regular voice to South Florida LGBT leaders. This week we asked them for their thoughts on an important news story this week. Below are some of their answers:

“Our community should care about those who find themselves homeless. The LGBTQ population is disproportionately represented and our current system is not fully prepared to provide the support needed.” — Robin Schwartz, Executive Director of Aqua Foundation for Women “The new President of the Boy Scouts, Robert Gates, said he would have allowed gay men to become Scoutmasters last year when openly gay boys were admitted for the first time. Young gay scouts need gay role models. Excluding them from serving as Scoutmasters themselves when they become 21 sends the wrong messages to them.” — Ken Keechl, noted trial attorney and candidate for Broward County Commission “The release of the Harvey Milk commemorative stamp is an extraordinary public acknowledgement of the many contributions of this gay, Jewish man, including his work on rent control, development, senior rights, in addition to his groundbreaking work on behalf of LGBT people. He was assassinated for who he was — a gay, Jewish man. May we continue to be inspired by his life and his passions, and never forget the many sacrifices of all of the heroes of our movement.” — Noah Kitty, Rabbi and Executive Director of Congregation Etz Chaim “ChemSex Is Becoming More Common Among Young Gay Men. For most, experimenting with chem sex the fear of being judged by your sex partner can be wiped away, but with that comes an incredible loss of inhibition which makes unprotected sex and possible exposure to STDs higher, with rates rising in the younger demographic it’s something the community should be educated on. Visit us at Facebook.com/impulseFTL for the full article.” — A.J. Alegria, President of Impulse Group — Fort Lauderdale Visit SFGN.com/SpeakOut to see more of this week’s responses. Send an Email to Jason.Parsley@sfgn.com if you know of a LGBT community leader that should be or wants to be a part of this list.

28

// 5.28.2014 // SFGN.com //

soflagaynews //

SouthFloridaGayNews


lifestyle history This Week in Gay History May 28 - June 3 Quistapp.com

C

hristopher Marlowe, English Poet & Playwright

May 28,1989 — Leather Pride Flag Debuted

May 31, 2012 — Samesex Marriage Approved by Conservative Jewish Movement

The Committee on Jewish Law and Standards issues a ruling to allow clergy to perform same-sex marriages. Two model The flag was designed by Tony DeBlase. He wedding ceremonies are approved, in first presented the design at the International addition to guidelines for a same-sex divorce. Mister Leather event in Chicago, Illinois.

May 29, 2008 — N.Y. Becomes 1st State to Recognize Out-of-State Gay Marriages

As a result of the ruling in Martinez v Monroe County, Governor David Paterson signs an executive order mandating that state agencies recognize same-sex marriages performed in other US states equally under the law.

May 30, 1593 — Christopher Marlowe, English Poet & Playwright, Killed in Bar Fight

Christopher Marlowe is famous for writing works such as Doctor Faustus and Edward II, the latter of which dealt with the life of an English king who was rumored to be gay. At twenty-nine, Marlowe was accused of writing papers supporting atheism, a charge Frances Kett, a Cambridge graduate student, had recently been burned for in 1589. At a tavern in Deptford, he got in a fight with Ingram Friezer, and Marlowe died from a blow to the skull.

June 1, 2003 — Same-sex Marriage Legalized in Belgium

Belgium becomes the second country to allow same-sex marriages in 2003 (after the Netherlands). Same-sex couples have the same rights as opposite-sex couples.

June 2, 2000 — Gay & Lesbian Pride Month Declared by President

President Bill Clinton issues a proclamation recognizing the lasting contributions, and continuing struggles, of gay and lesbian people. He also calls on Congress to pass hate crimes legislation.

June 3, 2007 — Wedding of Kanako Otsuji

The first openly lesbian politician in Japan holds a public ceremony with her partner of four years, Maki Kimura, despite the lack of legal recognition in Japan. The ceremony is held the month before Otsuji will face reelection. The public wedding took place in a park during an HIV prevention festival in front of 1,000 people.

All of the information above has been reprinted with permission from Quist, an LGBT mobile history app that can be found on iOS and Android devices. Visit QuistApp.com for more information. The app was created by Sarah Prager and launched in July of 2013. soflagaynews //

SouthFloridaGayNews // SFGN.com // 5.28.2014 //29


outeats

Special Advertising Section

Siam Cuisine

Exotic & Fine Siamese Cuisine SFGN Staff

Whether you’ve been in Wilton Manors for 20 minutes or 20 years, you’ve seen Siam Cuisine. Siam has been planted on Wilton Drive since 1980 – the first Thai restaurant in Fort Lauderdale. You can wander around greater Fort Lauderdale all you want, but you’d be hard-pressed to find a more authentic Thai restaurant than the legendary Siam Cuisine. Regulars come in constantly. They order take-out, where Tony, the owner, inquires about other family members not with the delegated pick-up person. Or they sit at a table – each one with a single pink rose atop – deciding between the night’s specials. The waiter touts the seafood pumpkin curry (we’ll get to that later). They order wine, as they do on all of their visits. They hug Tony, welcoming him to the conversation. It’s hard to walk into a Thai restaurant and not order the traditional pad Thai. That’d be like going to a baseball game and not getting a hot dog. But if you walk in to Siam Cuisine, it’s fine to get the pad Thai. But you’ll pinch yourself later for not trying anything else. For drinks, try the sake, even if it’s your first time. Variations come in hot or cold – Nigori being one of the best among the chilled options ($15). Even an organic option is available. Start with the chicken and shrimp dumplings ($6.95), topped with sliced green onions and served with soy sauce. Or grab the shrimp wontons ($6.95) served with a semi-spicy chili sauce, topped with peanuts. If the sauce isn’t spicy enough (or maybe too much), be sure to tell your server, as they can adjust the level of hotness to your liking. If you’re looking for just a main course, yes, the pad Thai is delicious. Get the shrimp and chicken ($17.95) since it’s the most popular. If you’re going out for pad Thai, Siam Cuisine will be your best option for it. But if you’re going out for all sorts of Thai cuisine, definitely consider branching out. For the next few months, Siam is featuring a seafood pumpkin curry. With a mixture of shrimp, zucchini, red pepper, and restaurant-

30

// 5.28.2014 // SFGN.com //

soflagaynews //

SouthFloridaGayNews

grown basil, chunks of pumpkin are pureed into the coconut milk curry mixture. It’s not overpowering; it actually gives it a subtle sweetness to an otherwise fairly spicy dish. Spoon it over rice. It’s insanely good. Ask about the whole red snapper since you won’t find it on the menu. It’s a filleted snapper broken into chunks, breaded and deep-fried, then tossed in a spicy tamarind chili sauce and placed back on the snapper bones. Don’t be alarmed at the fish head; it’s merely for presentation. Scoop the snapper chunks on to rice, add some of the red and green peppers and chili sauce, and dig in. If you can handle the heat, chances are you can finish the meal. But you may want to take home some leftovers, just so you can make room for the Thai doughnut. Any preconceived notions you had about Thai doughnuts end when you eat this one from Siam Cuisine. Only because it’s nothing like a Thai doughnut. For one, it resembles more of an American doughnut, not a large doughnut hole. It’s lightly fried and topped with honey, powdered sugar and sesame seeds. If you’ve made it this far, request chocolate syrup in place of the honey. No one will judge finger licking. It’s practically encouraged. At this point, you will never look at fried dough the same way ever again. It doesn’t matter if you’re visiting the drive for the afternoon or you’re practically a resident. If you haven’t been to Siam Cuisine, you are missing out on truly authentic (and legendary) Thai food. Siam Cuisine is located at 2010 Wilton Drive, in Wilton Manors. Call ahead for pickup at 954-564-3411 or visit siamcuisine.com for more information.


soflagaynews //

SouthFloridaGayNews // SFGN.com // 5.28.2014 // 31


F O R

SFGNITES

T H E

J.W. Arnold

jw@prdconline.com

THUR FILM

W E E K

5/29

Angelina Jolie stars in “Maleficent,” the untold story of Disney’s most iconic villain from the classic film, “Sleeping Beauty.” In the same way “Wicked” shed some light on the back story of L. Frank Baum’s Wicked Witch of the West, this film explores the betrayal that turned a queen’s pure heart to stone and fired her burning hatred for the innocent and beautiful Princess Aurora. Any bets on what the hot costume is going to be next Halloween? Check local listings for theaters and show times.

FRI

THEATER

O F

M A Y

2 8

-

J U N E

3 ,

2 0 1 4

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

A

ngelina Jolie stars in “Maleficent,” the untold story of Disney’s most iconic villain from the classic film, “Sleeping Beauty,” opening this weekend in local theaters.

5/30

Area Stage presents a unique and quirky play that follows the creative whirlwind and surreal struggle of a writer and composer as they attempt — and succeed — in concocting a hit Broadway show. The production, directed by multiple Carbonell winner John Rodaz and starring Broadway actress Jodie Lnagel (“Les Miserables,” “Evita,” “Cats”), runs Friday and Saturday evenings at 8 p.m. and Sundays at 7 p.m. through May 23 at the company’s 1560 S. Dixie Hwy. space in Coral Springs. Tickets are $25 – 45 at AreaStageCompany.com.

SAT MUSIC

5/31 SUN

The Miami Gay Men’s Chorus is celebrating its 15th anniversary a Quinces party and those girls wants their cake…and their tiaras, too! You can join in the fun at the anniversary concert, #NotSoTraditional, at the Colony Theatre, 1040 Lincoln Rd. in Miami Beach, Friday, May 30 and tonight at 8 p.m. and tomorrow, June 1, at 3 p.m. If you’ve never attended a Miami Gay Men’s Chorus concert before, they are dramatic events and sure to please, so expect to be entertained. Tickets are $30 – 40 at MiamiGayChorus.com

32

Photo: Walt Disney Pictures

// 5.28.2014 // SFGN.com //

ART

6/1 MON

The World Erotic Art Museum, 1205 Washington Ave. in Miami Beach, presents the provocative prints and drawings of French illustrator Tomi Ungerer. The Strasbourg-born artist got his start creating award-winning children’s picture books, but later began creating iconic images for books about adult sexuality. Stop by for the opening reception tonight at 6 p.m. The exhibit will be on display for three months. Admission is $15 for adults; no one under the age of 18 will be admitted. For more information and museum hours, go to WEAM.com. soflagaynews //

THEATER

6/2 TUE

Mondays are no longer dark in professional theaters across South Florida. Every Monday, beginning tonight through Aug. 25, the South Florida Theatre League presents Summer Theatre Fest, free readings of new plays by local playwrights at member companies. Tonight, experience “Finding Mona Lisa” by multiple Carbonell Award-winner Michael McKeever. The reading is hosted by Zoetic Stage at the Carnival Studio Theater in Miami’s Arsht Center. The reading begins at 8 p.m. For more information and a complete list of Theatre Fest play readings, go to SouthFloridaTheatre.com.

SouthFloridaGayNews

EXHIBIT

6/3

ArtsUnited presents “We Do, Too,” a collection of more than 30 images of LGBT couples who left the state of Florida to get married. The exhibition was born out of discussion two years ago after a member entered a photograph of her niece being married in the United & Proud show. “We Do, Too” opens tonight at Gallery 6 in the Broward County Main Library, 100 S. Andrews Ave. in Fort Lauderdale and will be on display through June 30 to coincide with Gay Pride Month. For more information, go to ArtsUnited.org.


June 21st, 2014 | 6pm - 10pm Hilton Downtown 1601 Biscayne Boulevard, Miami

Regions Bank Business of the Year Award Office Depot Foundation

Morgan Stanley Business Person of the Year Award Craig Smith, Source Events

AT&T Non-Profit of the Year Award National Gay and Lesbian Task Force

TICKETS: $200 Individual or $2,000 Table of Ten RSVP: at GayBizGala.com; 305-673-4440 Sponsors:

soflagaynews //

SouthFloridaGayNews // SFGN.com // 5.28.2014 //33


a&e film On DVD: New Gay Films Challenge Stereotypes David-Elijah Nahmod

‘Hot Guys With Guns’

Film imagines if Bogie and Bacall were both guys Someone’s robbing Hollywood’s sex parties! A plethora of gays are looking to have a good time with tons of hot guys around. But when the party’s over, the revelers find themselves ripped off of their valuables. No one talks because if they did, careers and marriages would be destroyed. Would you want to tell the police or, worse, your spouse that you had gone to an orgy? Never fear, though. Ex-boyfriends Danny and Pip have come to save the day. Pip is a victim of one of these robberies. Danny is a method actor, studying to be a private detective in preparation for a role he hopes to get. Amidst much witty banter reminiscent of romantic comedies and crime thrillers of the ‘30s and ‘40s, “Hot Guys With Guns” is an homage to the black and white forefathers of cinema. thrillers (Hot Guys

is sprinkled with reference to it’s Black and White cinema forefathers) Danny and Pip are the film’s interracial couple that set out to save the day. “Hot Guys With Guns” is the work of writer/director/actor Doug Spearman. He recently spoke with SFGN about his life as an openly gay African American artist living and working in Hollywood’s entertainment industry.

They’re based on me and my ex. Pip is passionate and Danny is fearless. How hard is it to finance a film like this?

We made [the movie] the lint in my pocket. Sometimes I was my own clapper. But we had access to great sets. We raided my closet and my costume designer’s closet. We brought everything we could to the set, including love and time. We “Hot Guys With Guns” is not what we wanted to do the best we could with the usually see in gay cinema. How’s it been technology that’s available. It was a great received so far? set; there was a lot of love. It depends on the person. People aged 35Is it difficult getting work as a black 80 love the movie. The older you are, the more actor in Hollywood? movies you’ve seen and the more you’ll love We understand that when they say it. Our film was inspired by “The Thin Man” ‘urban’ they mean ‘black.’ I was up for a series from the 30s, and film noir. Those films shoe product commercial. They said “we very much featured back and forth dialogue want you to black it up a bit.” I faxed the as our film does. We watched every film noir president of the shoe company. There are we could. The lines in our movie that come times when I didn’t want to do that. from other movies play well with the audience Looking at your IMDB page, you because they want to see an adult film. were on “Noah’s Arc,” the gay African What was the inspiration for your lead American series on Logo. What inspired characters? you to take that role?

It was extraordinary and revolutionary. Viewers had never before seen two black men raising a child together.

‘Straight and Butch’

Can you talk about the fact that Danny is white and Pip is black? We don’t see many interracial relationships in gay films.

In “Straight and Butch” openly gay filmmaker Butch Cordora, who hosts a long-running gay chat show in suburban Philadelphia, documents his attempt to create a nude calendar. In each of the calendar’s twelve photos, Cordora will pose intimately and nakedly with a straight male model. In this film Cordora questions the importance of labels. We know who’s gay and who’s not because the models tell us. But once the clothes come off, once they’re nude and posing, there’s nothing to indicate their stated sexual preferences. The fascination in watching “Straight and Butch” comes from seeing Cordora pursue his artistic vision as he attempts to recreate iconic images of popular culture. The famous “Abbey Road” album cover of John Lennon and Yoko Ono in the nude is only one example of his use of models to depict iconic imagery. Models “drop their drawers” in all kinds of places — even in the middle of a suburban neighborhood. Corodora’s joy and enthusiasm for the project is infectious. “Straight and Butch” is now available on DVD.

We tend to make movies all “black” or all “white.” This doesn’t reflect our world. My partner is white. My job as a storyteller and as

34

// 5.28.2014 // SFGN.com //

soflagaynews //

an actor is to reflect who we are. I want to get black and white men into the same theater…I want to integrate the audience. “Hot Guys With Guns” is available on DVD.

SouthFloridaGayNews


a&e gallery

Portraits of Marriage Equality Andrea Richard

Got married in another state or country? Have friends who recently did and you want to commemorate? It’s time to celebrate in the name of love. That’s right. ArtsUnited, a Fort Lauderdale nonprofit LGBT group, presents a celebratory reception in honor of same-sex marriage on Wednesday, June 4. The evening will bring together artists, marriage equality advocates, friends and recently married gay couples to toast and mingle. In conjunction with Gay Pride Month, the event will feature “We Do, Too,” a photography exhibition consisting of more than 30 images of LGBT couples who took the plunge and said their ‘I dos.’ The show reflects on that special bond between two individuals. But since Florida defines marriage as a union between one man and one woman, as it was voted on

Amendment 2 in 2008, the “We Do, Too” project was inspired to bring light to the issue. All the couples captured in the images are Florida residents who had to leave the state to get married elsewhere. The photographs are accompanied with statements from the couples. “Our goal is through pictures and words to showcase how important marriage equality is to the LGBT community,” wrote Guy Le Houx of ArtsUnited in press materials. “The pictures are interesting and the words are moving.” Wednesday’s gathering is open to the public and will include appetizers, drinks, dessert and live entertainment. Learn more about ArtsUnited by visiting artsunitedflorida.com.

“We Do, Too” show runs from June 3 through June 30. The art and social reception takes place 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Wednesday, June 4 at Gallery Six on the sixth floor inside the Broward County Main Library, 100 South Andrews Ave., Fort Lauderdale. No cover. soflagaynews //

SouthFloridaGayNews // SFGN.com // 5.28.2014 //35


a&e theater

Island City Stage Presents Poignant Reminder Just How Far We’ve Come J.W. Arnold

In just the last decade, we’ve witnessed a momentous shift in public attitudes towards homosexuality and marriage equality. But, opinions were much more steadfast in the decades before, as demonstrated by “The Pride,” Alexi Kaye Campell’s 2008 Olivier Award-winning drama receiving its regional premiere at Island City Stage. Set in London, “The Pride” focuses on three characters in 1958 and three different characters in 2008, all living in London and sharing the same names. In 1958, children’s book author Oliver (Michael McKeever) stops by the flat shared by his illustrator, Sylvia (Faiza Cherie), and her husband, Philip (Bruce Linzer), for a quick cocktail before dinner. An almostunnoticed connection occurs between Oliver and Philip and soon the men are engaged in an emotional affair. While Oliver seeks an authentic existence and an accompanying relationship, Philip cannot reconcile the “perversion” of their acts and pursues horrific chemical aversion therapy. Fifty years later, Oliver, a magazine journalist, and Philip are two seemingly happy partners whose relationship falls apart because of Oliver’s penchant for anonymous sex in public parks. Sylvia is Oliver’s confidant, a friend who wants to see her friends work out the kinks in an otherwise perfect relationship. Honestly, there’s nothing terribly original about either storyline. Most of the older gay men in the audience have experienced one or both types of relationships firsthand. But, Campbell’s London setting, punctuated with well-crafted, often witty dialogue (delivered with competent British accents), puts a fresh spin on tired tales. And did I mention that she alternately weaves the stories together, emphasizing the concurrent themes of sexual identity and self-esteem? This presents a technical challenge for director Andy Rogow, but with the help

36

// 5.28.2014 // SFGN.com //

soflagaynews //

SouthFloridaGayNews

of costume designer Peter Lovello, lighting designer Eric Cantrell and set designer Michael McClain, the adept cast instantly navigate the twists and turns throughout the two-act play. Credit McClain with an especially clever visual cue for the audience: A manual typewriter is flipped over to reveal a laptop whenever the calendar advances to 2008. McKeever and Cherie both give solid performances in both timeframes, but it is Linser, as the 1950s Philip, who is most moving, his character visibly and painfully struggling with the insurmountable feelings of self-loathing. One of the most unnerving moments comes as Philip meets with the doctor prior to aversion therapy, which involves looking at gay pornography in a locked room before undergoing chemical injections that will induce severe nausea. He asks to bring a picture of Oliver into the room in the hopes of erasing any pleasant memories of their emotional bonds. Sean Dorazio offers a pleasant distraction from the heady drama in multiple roles, first as a Nazi-uniformed rent boy who comforts the 2008 Oliver after his breakup and later as Philip’s disturbing doctor and Oliver’s cheeky magazine editor. Cliches aside, the play’s biggest weakness is the length. Clocking in at nearly two and a half hours (with 15 minute intermission) it’s a long show to endure in the seats at Empire Stage. Considering “The Pride” is really two plays in one, with some edits, the sum would still certainly outweigh its parts. That said, it’s still a good reminder why the LGBT community celebrates Pride in June. “The Pride” by Alexi Kaye Campbell produced by Island City Stage at Empire Stage, 1140 N. Flagler Dr. in Fort Lauderdale. Thursday and Saturday at 8 p.m. and Sunday at 5 p.m. through June 22. Tickets $30 at IslandCityStage.org.


a&e theater

Outre Thrills and Chills in Murder Musical J.W. Arnold

Young love can be uplifting and empowering, but for Nathan Leopold and Richard Loeb, two Chicago teens growing up in the 1920s, their romance would become twisted, a tale of domination and submission and ultimately, murder. “Thrill Me: The Leopold and Loeb Story,” which opened last week in a production by Outre Theatre Company at the Cutural Arts Center in Boca Raton’s Mizner Park, is based on the true story of these men, the so-called “thrill killers” who murdered a young boy in 1924 in order to commit the “perfect crime.” A 2003 chamber musical with a book, lyrics and contemporary score by Stephen Dolginoff, the story is told in a series of flashbacks, beginning with Leopold’s fifth parole hearing in 1958. Leopold is seated on a dark, sparsely decorated set dominated by black flats and boxes that will later be reconfigured. As the bright spot comes up on Leopold (Mike Westrich), the parole board (the voices of Oscar Cheda and Sabrina Gore) quizzes the convict. Once again, he lays out the facts of his crime, but the parole board seeks the deeper motivations for participating in “the crime of the century.” But, then it dawns him, this time he could reveal more, perhaps leading to the parole he has sought so many times before. He recalls reuniting with his childhood friend, Richard Loeb (Conor Walton). Despite the fact they shared an adolescent romance, the Nietzsche reading Loeb, has matured into a cold, calculating sociopath, eager to manipulate his willing acolyte to participate in ever escalating crimes. Loeb only offers his physical affection after Leopold signs a contract — they both ironically dreamed of becoming lawyers — in blood. The price is his contrition, first as they burn a warehouse, later rob a home while the owners sleep and then plot Loeb’s ultimate crime, murder. Whether unconsciously or not, Leopold loses his glasses at the crime scene and, of course, the expensive imported frames lead the police right to the men. Despite Loeb’s threats, Leopold eventually gives in to the police interrogators and the duo land in the Joliet Prison, surprisingly spared the death penalty, thanks to the cunning strategy of their lawyer, Clarence Darrow. Westrich first gained widespread notice as the gay prison camp inmate in Island City Stage’s multiple Carbonell Awardwinning production of Dan Clancy’s “The Timekeepers” last fall. Again, he offers a nuanced performance, struggling with the moral compromises he is forced to make in order to win Loeb’s approval. Walton, a veteran of many critically

acclaimed Slow Burn Theatre productions, gives a chilling performance as Loeb, perhaps the best of his career. The audience rightly squirms in their seats as each of his increasingly evil plots is hatched with Walton’s sly grin and piercing gaze. Both are at their best while singing Dolginoff’s alternately soaring and searing melodies. Under the music direction of Kristen Long, who also accompanies on the piano, their voices blend perfectly as Loeb pulls Leopold into each escalating emotional transaction. Director Skye Whitcomb’s intimate staging is further accentuated by the stark lighting design by Stefanie Howard. Howard brilliantly sets the stage for the flashbacks as Loeb appears in a flash only to disappear into foggy memories. She also recreates the headlights of Loeb’s Packard coupe, putting the audience into the eyes of the bewildered child who would later be murdered and mutilated. “Thrill Me” is a disturbing show about disturbing subject matter, but in the hands of Westrich, Walton, Whitcomb and the Outre team, it’s also a powerful piece of musical theater that sheds light on a heinous crime that should not be forgotten. “Thrill Me: The Leopold and Loeb Story” will run through June 8 at the Mizner Park Cultural Arts Center, 201 Plaza Real (2nd Floor) in Boca Raton. Performances are Thursday, Friday, and Saturday evenings at 8 pm, and Sundays at 2 pm. Tickets can be purchased by calling 954.300.2149, or online at www.outretheatrecompany.com. soflagaynews //

SouthFloridaGayNews // SFGN.com // 5.28.2014 //37


Datebook

Theater Christiana Lilly

Calendar@SFGN.com BROWARD COUNTY broward county

Classical and Romantic Gala

May 30 and June 6 at the Broward Center, 201 SW Fifth Ave. in Fort Lauderdale. Principal dancers from the San Francisco, Joffrey, Boston and San Jose dance companies come together for a mesmerizing performance with the Florida Classical Ballet. Tickets $30 to $50. Call 954-4620222 or visit BrowardCenter.org.

A

hot dog

50 year-old love triangle; ‘The Pride’ comes to the Empire Stage through June 22

May 15 to June 1 at NSU’s Black Box Theatre, 3301 College Ave. in David. Dog lives next door to her daughter, Maryanne, and son-in-law, who are both tired of having to take care of her. Tickets $35. Visit ThinkingCapTheatre.com.

* Caribbean Jazz Matazz

June 8 at 7 p.m. at the Broward Center, 201 SW Fifth Ave. in Fort Lauderdale. A night mixing together the genres of jazz, reggae and calypso, including performances by Myrna Hague and Richie Stephens. Tickets $40. Call 954-462-0222 or visit BrowardCenter.org.

The Pride

Through June 22 at Empire Stage, 1140 N. Flagler Drive in Fort Lauderdale. Oliver, Philip and Sylvia are in a love triangle that spans 50 years -- with a pseudo-Nazi sex partner, gay aversion therapist, and a magazine editor thrown into the mix. Tickets $30. Call 954-519-2533 or visit IslandCityStage.org. PALM BEACH county palm beach

* Standardized Living

May 31 at 2 and 7 p.m. at the Kravis Center, 701 Okeechobee Blvd. in West Palm Beach. To the tune of “The Breakfast Club,” “Lord of the Flies” and “Hamlet,” this play goes through the life of a teenager and being a statistic.Tickets $20. Call 561-82-7469 or visit Kravis.org.

Doubt

Photo: Island City Stage

miami-dade MIAMI DADE county * Scott and Hem LGBT Pre-Show Social

May 29 from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. at the Actors Playhouse, 280 Miracle Mile in Coral Gables. An LGBT pre-show social before the play depicting the friendship and literary rivalry between authors F. Scott Fitzgerald and Ernest Hemingway in 1937. Tickets $35, including a drink. Call 305-444-9293 or visit ActorsPlayhouse.org.

* Romeo Santos

May 31 at 8:30 p.m. at the AmericanAirlines Arena, 601 Biscayne Blvd. in Miami. Since leaving bachata boy band Aventura in 2011, Santos has made a name for himself as a solo artist. Tickets $35.10 to $201.45. Call 786-777-1000 or visit AAArena.com.

May 24 to June 8 at the Delray Beach Playhouse, 950 NW Ninth St. in Delray Beach. At a prestigious Catholic boys school, Sister Aloysius suspects that Father Flynn may be having an inappropriate relationship with a young black student. Tickets $30. Call 561-272-1281, ext. 4 or visit DelrayBeachPlayhouse.com.

Through June 8 at the Don & Ann Brown Theatre, 201 Clematis St. in West Palm Beach. George Love weds and beds unsuspecting women before running off with their money -- until he tries to scam Adelaide Pinchin. Tickets $60. Call 561-514-4042 or visit PalmBeachDramaworks.org.

Free Friday Concerts

Fridays at 7:30 p.m. at the Delray Beach Center for the Arts, 51 N. Swinton Ave. in Delray Beach. Enjoy live music from the comfort of your picnic blanket or lawn chair every week, for free! Call 561-243-7922 or visit DelrayArts.org. // 5.28.2014 // SFGN.com //

May 31 at 8 p.m. at the Arsht Center, 1300 Biscayne Blvd. in Miami. The former frontman for The SMiths performs hits from his 30-year career from the band as well as his own original tunes. Tickets $59.50 to $99.50. Call 305-949-6722 or visit ArshtCenter.org.

Evita

Through June 1 at the Arsht Center, 1300 Biscayne Blvd. in Miami. Eva Peron rose through the society and was adored by her people as the First Lady. However, power and greed during a tumultuous time in history would change all that. Tickets $26 to $96. Call 305-949-6722 or visit ArshtCenter.org.

Everybody Drinks the Same Water

Through June 1 at the Miami Theater Center, 9806 NE Second Ave. in Miami Shores. Three teens of different religious backgrounds come together to solve a murder caused by someone poisoning their water supply in Cordoba, Spain. Tickets $25 to $35. Call 305-751-9550 or visit MTCMiami.org.

to the surface. Tickets $45. Call 305-949-6722 or visit ArshtCenter.org.

Gidion’s Knot

Through June 15 at the South Miami-Dade Cultural Arts Center, 10950 SW 211st St. in Cutler Bay. When fifth grader Gidion is suspended from school, his mother confronts his teacher during a parent teacher conference and uncovers a world of bullying and the failing school system. Tickets $26 to $31. Call 786573-5300 or visit SMDCAC.org.

* Vanya and Sonia and Masha and Spike

Through June 15 at the GableStage, 1200 Anastasia Ave. in Coral Gables. Siblings living in Bucks County, Penn. get a visit from their movie star sister and her latest fling. Tickets $45 to $55. Call 305-446-1116 or visit GableStage.org.

Everybody Drinks the Same Water

Through June 1 at the Miami Theater Center, 9806 NE Second Ave. in Miami Shores. Three teens of different religious backgrounds come together to * Ballet Hispanico solve a murder caused by someone poisoning their June 6 and 7 at the Arsht Center, 1300 Biscayne Blvd. in Miami. For more than 30 years, the dance company water supply in Cordoba, Spain. Tickets $25 to $35. Call 305-751-9550 or visit MTCMiami.org. has melded together the everchanging Latin culture with traditional ballet. Tickets are $30 - $90. Call PAMM Outdoor Music Series 305-949-6722 or visit ArshtCenter.org. Third Thursdays at the Perez Art Museum Miami, 101 W. Flagler St. in Miami. Come out for live music * Scott and Hem Through June 8 at the Actors Playhouse, 280 Miracle from DJs and musicians by the bay. Drink specials available. Free with museum admission. Call 305-375Mile in Coral Gables. A play depicting the friendship 3000 or visit PAMM.org. and literary rivalry between authors F. Scott Fitzgerald and Ernest Hemingway in 1937. Tickets The Big Show $45. Call 305-444-9293 or visit ActorsPlayhouse.org. Fridays and Saturdays at 9 p.m. at Just the Funny Theater, 3119 Coral Way in Miami. A collection The Great God Pan of comedy mixing the likes of improvisation and Through June 8 at the Arsht Center, 1300 Biscayne sketches. Tickets $12. Call 305-693-8669 or visit Blvd. in Miami. Jamie’s perfect life in Brooklyn is turned upside down when a childhood trauma comes JustTheFunny.com.

Tryst

38

Morrissey

* Denotes New Listing soflagaynews //

SouthFloridaGayNews


Datebook

Community Christiana Lilly Calendar@SFGN.com

broward county

BROWARD COUNTY

* Fit and Fabulous

Mondays 6 to 6:30 p.m. at the Drolma Kadampa Buddhist Center, 140 W. Prospect Road in Fort Lauderdale. Join a guided meditation and instruction with Western Buddhist teacher, Jay Radin. Free. Visit MeditationinFortLauderdale.com.

Tuesdays from 5 to 6 p.m. through June 3 at the Lake Worth Playhouse, 713 Lake Ave. in Lake Worth. A 10week acting class for amateur adults wanting to learn the craft of scene study and monologues. Cost $150. Call 561-586-6410 or email Shonna Rash at shonna@ lakeworthplayhouse.org.

Man2Man Discussion

Sober Sisters AA Lesbian Group

Mondays 7 to 8:30 p.m. at the Pride Center, 2040 N. Dixie Highway in Wilton Manors. A weekly informal discussion group among gay men of all backgrounds. Contact John Beuscher at 954-202-4469 or email johnnybushwick@aol.com.

May 28 from 7 to 8:30 p.m. at the Pride Center, 2040 N. Dixie Highway in Wilton Manors. LGBT women are invited to learn about incorporating exercise and healthy eating habits in a busy life. Bring comfortable clothes! Call 954-463-9005, ext. 108 or visit PrideCenterFlorida.org.

Gender Bender Youth Group

Tequila Chopped

SunServe Youth Group

May 29 at 7 p.m. at Cantina Laredo, 501 Silks Run in Hallandale Beach. Mixologists from III Forks Prime Steakhouse and Cantina Laredo will battle it out behind the bar to become the 2014 Cocktail Master. Event benefits The Buoniconti Fund to Cure Paralysis. Call Rhonda Gibson at 561-201-4877 or email southfloridaevents@croinc.com.

* Research & Development: Concerning Belonging

Mondays from 7 to 8:30 p.m. at SunServe Campus, 1480 SW Ninth Ave. in Fort Lauderdale. A group for LGBT youth 13 to 21 to discuss gender, gender expression, binary systems, friendship, family and whatever else comes up! Free. Visit SunServeYouth.com Tuesdays and Thursdays in Fort Lauderdale, Southwest Ranches, Coral Springs and Hollywood. A support group and night of fun for LGBT youth 13 to 21. Free. Visit SunServeYouth.com for dates and times.

PFLAG

Tuesdays in Fort Lauderdale, Coral Springs and Southwest Ranches. A support group for parents of LGBT youth 13 to 21. Free. Visit SunServeYouth.com for dates and locations.

June 1 to September 14 at the Museum of Art Fort Lauderdale, One E. Las Olas Blvd. in Fort Lauderdale. Student artists from NSU address homelessness and belonging in this exhibit. Call 954-525-5500 or visit MOAFL.org.

GayWrites

* Turtle Walks

Survivor Support

June 3 through July 10 at 9 p.m. at the Museum of Discovery and Science, 401 SW Second St. in Fort Lauderdale. Join the museum for a short presentation on Loggerhead turtles before heading to the beach for a nighttime walk to watch turtles emerge from the water to lay their eggs. Note, it is not guaranteed that turtles will be seen every night. Tickets $18 for members, $20 for nonmembers. Call 954-713-0930 or visit MODS.org.

* “The Day it Snowed in Miami” Screening and Fundraiser

June 5 at 7 p.m. at the Classic Gateway Theatre, 1820 E. Sunrise Blvd. in Fort Lauderdale. A documentary of the days of being LGBT during the time of Anita Bryant. Tickets $25 in advance and $30 at the door to benefit Stonewall National Museum & Archives and SAVE (formerly SAVE Dade). A VIP reception will be held at 5 p.m. at the Chill Wine Lounge, 1828 E. Sunrise Blvd. in Fort Lauderdale for $75, including a glass of wine, light bites, and a movie ticket. Visit Stonewall-Museum.org.

* Days Without Sunshine: Anita Bryant’s Anti-Gay Crusade

June 9 to July 31 at Stonewall National Museum Wilton Manors Gallery, 2157 Wilton Drive in Wilton Manors. An exhibit of memorabilia from the days of fighting for LGBT rights in South Florida, including the battle against Anita Bryant. Visit StonewallMuseum.org.

Pride Center Flea Market

First Saturdays from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. at The Pride Center, 2040 N. Dixie Highway in Wilton Manors. Scour through arts and crafts from area vendors every month. Call 954-463-9005.

Adult Acting Class

Introduction to Modern Buddhism

Wednesdays at 5:30 p.m. at the Stonewall Library, 1300 E. Sunrise Blvd. in Fort Lauderdale. Come join us and write your memoir, poem, blog, novel or short story. Free. Email garri1@earthlink.net First and third Wednesdays from 7 to 8:30 p.m. at the Broward Health Imperial Point Hospital cafeteria, 6401 N. Federal Highway in Fort Lauderdale. Find support from counselors and peers who have lost loved ones to suicide. Call the Florida Initiative for Suicide Prevention at 954-384-0344 or visit FISPOnline.org.

Women4Women Support

Wednesdays from 6 to 7:30 p.m. at SunServe, 2312 Wilton Drive in Wilton Manors. An open meeting and discussion group of all topics brought up by participants. Call 954-764-5150.

POZitive Attitudes

Wednesdays 7 to 9 p.m. at the Pride Center, 2040 N. Dixie Highway in Wilton Manors. A support group for gay and bisexual men who are infected or impacted by HIV/AIDS. Visit PozitiveAttitudes.com PALM BEACH palm beach county

* “Ruthie & Connie: Every Room in the House” Screening

June 10 at 7 p.m. at the Mandel JCC Boynton Beach, 8500 Jog Road in Boynton Beach and June 11 at Mandel JCC Palm Beach Gardens, 5221 Hood Road in Palm Beach Gardens. The story of Ruthie Berman and Connie Kurtz, partners for 35 years, including new footage of their marriage in 2011 in New York City. Tickets $8. Call 561-736-7527 or visit JCCOnline.com

Sober Sisters

Mondays at 6:15 p.m. at Lambda North, 18 S. J St. in Lake Worth. A support and discussion group for female recovering alcoholics. Visit LambdaNorth.net.

* Out of the Closet NA Group

Mondays at 7 p.m. at Lambda North, 18 S. J St. in Lake Worth. A support and discussion group for LGBT recovering addicts. Visit LambdaNorth.net.

Mondays at 7 p.m. at Lambda North, 18 S. J St. in Lake Worth. A support group for recovering alcoholics. Visit LambdaNorth.net.

Yoga with Deborah

Tuesdays from 6 to 7 p.m. at Compass GLCC, 201 N. Dixie Highway in Lake Worth. Learn to control your breathing and find peace with this ancient exercise. Must bring your own mat. Class $6. Visit CompassGLCC.com.

Yoga on the Waterfront

Wednesdays at 5:45 p.m. at Lake Pavilion, 101 S. Flagler Drive in West Palm Beach. Take a day out of the week to center yourself on the yoga mat. $10 per class or residents $40 for eight weeks, nonresidents $50 for eight weeks. Call 561-804-4902.

BrothasSpeak

Wednesdays at 7 p.m. at Compass GLCC, 201 N. Dixie Highway in Lake Worth. A discussion group dedicated to gay black men. Call 561-533-9699 or visit CompassGLCC.com.

Voices of Pride

Wednesdays at 7 p.m. at Compass GLCC, 201 N. Dixie Highway in Lake Worth. Join the Gay Men’s Chorus as they practice every week. Free. Call 561-533-9699 or visit CompassGLCC.com

Overeater’s Anonymous

Wednesdays from 7 to 8:30 p.m. at Compass GLCC, 201 N. Dixie Highway in Lake Worth. A safe place to discuss their eating habits and goals. Free. Call 561533-9699 or visit CompassGLCC.com

Coming Out Support Group

Thursdays from 6:30 to 8 p.m. a Compass GLCC of the Palm Beaches, 201 N. Dixie Highway in Lake Worth. Get support as you explore your sexual identity and be your true self. Call Forrest at 561-479-8313.

Queer Alternatives

Fridays from 5 to 7 p.m. at Compass GLCC, 201 N. Dixie Highway in Lake Worth. An all encompassing social group, those 18 to 29 who consider themselves to be lesbian, gay, transgender, bisexual, questioning, or anything in between are welcome to join! Free. Call 561-533-9699 or visit CompassGLCC.com.

Green Market

Saturdays 9 a.m. to noon at West Palm Beach Waterfront, 101 S. Flagler Drive in West Palm Beach. A relaxing morning of shopping through green vendors and live entertainment. Contact Katrina Resch 561822-1520 or KResch@wpb.org.

PFLAG

Third Wednesdays from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. at Temple Shaarei, 9085 Hagen Ranch Road in Boynton Beach. A support group for friends and family of LGBT youth. Call Carole 561-716-9464 or Joyce 561-292-3273.

Boynton Beach Art Walk

Fourth Thursdays from 7 to 11 p.m. at the Boynton Beach Art District, 404-422 W. Industrial Ave. in Boynton Beach. Art studios will be open for the public to view, as well as food, music, dancers and live performances. Call 786-521-1199.

Palm Beach Prime Timers

Second Saturdays at 2:30 p.m. at Compass GLCC,

soflagaynews //

201 N. Dixie Highway in Lake Worth. Mature gay men meet monthly for diverse social, cultural and educational activities. Visit PrimeTimerSWW.com/ PalmBeaches.

Peer Navigation

Third Thursdays from 5 to 6 p.m. at Compass GLCC, 201 N. Dixie Highway in Lake Worth. Meet others who are HIV positive for discussion topics and meet new friends. Free. Contact Danielle@compassglcc.com. MIAMI miami-dade county

* Miami Log Cabin Republicans May 28 at 7:15 p.m. at Casa Larios, 7705 W. Flagler St. in Miami. Mayor Ed MacDougall, running for Congress, and Marco Antonio Valdes, running for county commissioner, will be talking about their upcoming elections. Visit LogCabin.org/chapter/ florida-miami.

Blue Water Fishing Classic

May 29 to June 1 at all six Miami-Dade marinas. Join other fishermen vying to catch the three largest fish, as well as a captain’s party, silent auction, awards ceremony, and live entertainment. Registration $400 per boat. Call 305-665-5475 or visit BlueWaterFishingClassic.com.

Rainbow Circle

Mondays from 6 to 8 p.m. at the University of Miami Flipse Building #302, 5665 Ponce de Leon Drive in Coral Gables. An open discussion about coming out, relationships, peer pressure, bullying, depression and more. Free. Visit Pridelines.org.

HIV Support Group

Wednesdays from 7 to 9 p.m. at South Beach AIDS Project, 1234 Washington Ave. Ste. 200 in Miami Beach. A support group for those who are HIV positive. Free. Call 305-535-4733, ext. 301 or email support@ sobeaids.org.

Modern Buddhist Meditation

Mondays and Tuesdays at the Drolma Kadampa Buddhist Center, 1273 Coral Way in Miami. Find inner peace with instruction on meditation with Buddhist monk, Gen Kelsang Nurbu. Cost $10 and $5 per class. Call 786-529-7137.

Book Study

Wednesdays from 7 to 9 p.m. at the Drolma Kadampa Buddhist Center, 1273 Coral Way in Miami. Buddhist monk, Gen Kelsang Nurbu, will lead classes on learning the foundations of Buddhism. Call 786-529-7137.

Prayers For World Peace

Sundays from 10 a.m. to noon at he Drolma Kadampa Buddhist Center, 1273 Coral Way in Miami. Buddhist teacher, Todd Ellenberg will lead prayers and meditation. Cost $10. Call 786-529-7137.

Community Yoga Series

Third Wednesdays at 6:15 p.m. at jugofresh Wynwood Walls, 222 NW 26th St. in Miami. Yoga instructor Dawn B. Feinberg leads a monthly yoga class in the middle of Miami’s art district. Mats are available, but yogis are encouraged to bring their own. Free. Call 786-472-2552.

Sex Talk

Second and fourth Thursdays at Pridelines, 9525 NE Second Ave. #401 in Miami Shores. Conduct outreach events, record video messages, participate in a series of performances, and organize special events with a purpose. Free. Visit Pridelines.org.

* Denotes New Listing

SouthFloridaGayNews // SFGN.com // 5.28.2014 //39


ClassiďŹ ed$

To place an ad call 954.530.4970 or visit SFGN.com cleaning services attorneys

EL SHADDAI CONSULTING, INC IMMIGRATION LEGAL SERVICES by Licensed Attorneys representation before immigration services & immigration court. Assist with applications, waivers, motions, appeal and prosecutorial discretion cases. Call 305-407-9397 for free consultation/appointment

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

computers

COMPLETE COMPUTER REPAIR FREE ESTIMATES - No extra charge for in-home. FREE Computer tune-up with any service. Replacement of laptop screen & key board. Viruses, spyware, data recovery, lockouts & more. SAME DAY SERVICE - LOWEST PRICE GUARANTEE Call Ernesto: 754-234-5598 www.CCrepairservices.com HATE WINDOWS 8? We can bring back the look and feel of windows. Same day service. Call 954-986-1316 www.gaycomputerwiz.com

employment/jobs TRAVEL AGENT PART TIME Full service travel agency located on Wilton Drive seeks experienced part time travel professional. Must have good internet and communication skills. Ability to assist clients with airline, hotel, cruise, and tour package reservations. Call 954-5652345 for an initial phone interview. NUTRITIONIST FULL-TIME: Poverello is seeking a full-time nutritionist to provide nutrition education and counseling to individuals living with HIV/AIDS. For more information go to: http://www. poverello.org/portal/job-opportunities. Fax resume to (954) 566-7868, ATTN: Nutritionist. COMPANION FOR ELDERLY GENTLEMAN WANTED - In-home care. Patient suffers from mild dementia. Position is part time to start. Exceptional working environment and conditions. Must have clean background check, mature, good natured and in good health need apply. Submit resume with cover letter, including references and pay requirements to: P.O. Box 2213, Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33303

business consulting

SWINGING RICHARDS NOW HIRING Quality Male Dancers & Waiters. Full nudity/upscale club environment with great income potential. Please text (865)385-9568 or email photos/info to jthoppy@gmail.com PERSONAL ASSISTANTS WANTED We are currently recruiting for Personal Assistants to organize and help. You must be fun, caring, and passionate about working as a personal assistant. Basic computer skills needed and must be good with organization. Salary/Weekly Rate: $582, Interested persons should contact for more info: frank.lafollette147@hotmail.com

models/casting $$$ MODELS NEEDED $$$ Wrestling Company in South Florida is seeking athletic models for planned video shoots in our new facility. Wrestling and/or performing experience is helpful but not necessary. Good pay. Contact us at TheBoss@bgeast.com for more information!

To place an ad in the ClassiďŹ eds call 954.530.4970 or visit SFGN.com 40

// 5.28.2014 // SFGN.com //

soflagaynews //

SouthFloridaGayNews


furniture repair AAA FURNITURE HOSPITAL We specialize in gluing and clamping of “broken and loose” tables, chairs and occasional pieces. Other services include repair of cigarette burns, perfume stains, dog bites, water damage,recliner and sofa bed repairs. Free estimates 954-493-5221

home health care

home & garden ELECTRICAL CONTRACTING BY MARSON Replacing breakers and panels, service upgrades, repairing code violations, installing fans and fixtures, repairs, rewiring, remodeling, surge protection and lightning damage repairs. No job too big or small. Serving Palm Beach & Broward. Licensed & insured. 561-367-1556 or 954-784-7992 marson23@aol.com

licensed massage INCREDIBLY AWESOME BODYWORK IN WPB In-calls at a private studio 15 minutes west of PBIA. Intuitive, experienced licensed massage therapist offers affordable rates 7 days, early to late. SUMMER SPECIAL for new clients only, $40 for 1 hour! Calls only 561254-8065 for the very best massage experience you can get HANDS DOWN! #MA51008

pets/supplies Dependable Reliable Ser vice Delivered with Love and Respect

psychic readings

Psychic Gallery

• Does he love me? • Is he being faithful? • Am I heading in the right direction? All readings confidential. Where others have failed, I have succeeded!

CALL FOR AN APPOINTMENT

754.223.3366

LGBT Senior Home Care

2530 N. Federal Hwy. Fort Lauderdale, FL

PRIVATE DUTY

Home Health Aide Personal Assistant

Established over 20 years

real estate for sale

FOR AN APPOINTMENT PLEASE CALL...

Kevin Fenn

954-256-1600

ultracarefl@gmail.com

EVANS HOME CARE Home Health Care - Free consultation. Certified and insured professional. Assistance with day to day activities, experience in disability, Alzheimer’s. Assistance with shopping, cleaning, doctor visits, bathing/shaving. Anything you need I can help! Call or email Jamie 561-685-5254 jamiejeep37@gmail.com

home & garden Angler Lawn & Landscape, Inc. Monthly Lawn Service

Install Hedges

Hedge Trimming & Removal

Install Trees

Debris Removal

Install Grass

Tree Trimming & Removal

Install Rocks & Stones

Stump Grinding

Install Mulch

Sprinkler Repair

Outdoor Lighting

Fence Repair

Fertilize Grass

Licensed and Insured

BEAUTIFUL WILTON MANORS CONDO 2/2 completely renovated corner unit. Lots of amenities and centrally located. Sale $145K, negotiable. Pool, laundry, bike path, clubhouse and BBQ. Call 561-654-8708 for more details. HUSBAND FOR RENT! Is he procrastinating home repairs? He says he will do it tomorrow?? After the football game?? We fit right in - in the house or the yard, small or big jobs: tile, dry wall, paint, plumbing, roof leaks, broken furniture, irrigation, fences, and more!It doesn’t cost to hassle us to see the work - so why wait? Neat, clean work for a reasonable price. Call Haim at 954-275-0952, sidnalll@yahoo.com

rent/lease fort lauderdale NEWLY RENOVATED HOUSE FOR RENT Middle River Terrace - available June 1st - 2/2 house with den, huge fenced back yard with deck, brand new energy efficient appliances/ central air, led lighting, impact windows & doors. Close to downtown Wilton Manors and minutes to Fort Lauderdale Beach. Must be clean, nonsmoker, pets OK with deposit, background check required. $1900/month, call Lee at 561-483-6724

INTERIOR PAINTING No job too small! We offer great competitive rates. Call Gregg @ 617-306-5694 or Tom @ 352-322-7139. We are reliable and honest with references!

licensed massage LIC # 11000106488

COMPLETELY RENOVATED: Super Large Fully Furnished One Bedroom With Den Facing An Amazing Butterfly Garden. Granite Counter Top, King Size Bed. Price Included Internet Cable TV Water And Electricity Great Central Location Min To Wilton Manors Night Life The Beaches. $1500 A Month Eli 954-638-7034 COMPLETELY RENOVATED: Studio Fully Furnished With A Full Kitchen, Granite Counter Top, Stand Up Shower, Gorgeous View Of The Butterfly Garden. Price Included Internet Cable TV Water And Electricity Great Central Location Min Drive To Wilton Manors Night Life The Beaches. $900 a Month 954-638-7034

misc.

Free Lawn Analysis

954-448-6394 www.wiltonmanorslandscaping.com Serving The Greater Fort Lauderale Area Since 1995

SWEDISH MASSAGE $50 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 www.massagebydennis.net AFFORDABLE AWESOME MASSAGE BY JIM Offering Swedish, Deep Tissue, Sports and LomiLomi Massage for Men; in a very comfortable, relaxed and Private Massage Studio, NOW conveniently located in Wilton Manors on NE 26th Street, with plenty of free parking. Same Day appointments are welcome; please call Jim, 954-600-5843 email: info@massagebyjim.com or visit my website for testimonials, rates and more. GREAT OPENING SPECIAL NOW AVAILABLE! www.massagebyjim.com Licensed and Certified MM22293

piano lessons WANT TO LEARN HOW TO PLAY THE PIANO? Learn from an experienced teacher. All levels and ages welcome. Learn to play classical, popular, jazz, or show tunes. Visit www.edwinchad.com or call 954-826-9555 for more information.

spiritual DIVINE MERCY CHAPEL - A Special place to grow spiritually! 2749 NE 10TH Ave., Wilton Manors FL, 33334. 954-567-1930, Divinemercychapel.com www.facebook.com/divinemercychapel

soflagaynews //

SouthFloridaGayNews // SFGN.com // 5.28.2014 // 41


42

// 5.28.2014 // SFGN.com //

soflagaynews //

SouthFloridaGayNews


soflagaynews //

SouthFloridaGayNews // SFGN.com // 5.28.2014 //43


// SFGN.com //

soflagaynews //

SouthFloridaGayNews


Turn static files into dynamic content formats.

Create a flipbook
Issuu converts static files into: digital portfolios, online yearbooks, online catalogs, digital photo albums and more. Sign up and create your flipbook.