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Police Video Contained AntiGay Language Fort Lauderdale Commissioner Dean Trantalis, who is gay, said Monday night that an offensive video produced by a former city police officer contained the word “faggot.” The video, titled “The Hoods,” was produced by Alex Alvarez, 22, who resigned last week amid an

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Former BYU Student Settles Lawsuit against Landlord A former BYU student, who claimed to have been evicted from his university contracted apartment complex because of a same-sex attraction, has settled his case. Terms of the agreement between Andrew David White and The Village at

South Campus in Provo, Utah were not disclosed. In White’s eviction notice, the landlord stated he had violated Brigham Young University’s honor code by revealing his feelings of same-sex attraction.

Apple CEO Giving Fortune to Charity Tim Cook, the openly gay chief executive officer for Apple, announced last week he is giving millions of his fortune to charity. Details as to which philanthropic projects would receive Cook’s donations have yet to be revealed.

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According to regulatory filings, Cook’s salary at Apple last year was $9.2 million. Before giving his fortune away, Cook told CNN he intends to pay for his nephew’s MEMBER college education.

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internal probe into police misconduct. Attending an event sponsored by Pride South Florida, Trantalis, the newly reelected commissioner in district two, said he did not feel the video was overall targeting the gay community.

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South Florida Gay News is published weekly. The opinions expressed in columns, stories, and letters to the editor do not represent the opinions of SFGN, or the Publisher. You should not presume the sexual orientation of individuals based on their names or pictorial representations. Furthermore the word “gay” in SFGN should be interpreted to be inclusive of the entire LGBT community. All of the material/columns that appears in print and online, including articles used in conjunction with the AP, is protected under federal copyright and intellectual property laws, and is jealously guarded by the newspaper. Nothing published may be reprinted in whole or part without getting written consent from the Publisher, at his law ofﬁce, at Norm@NormKent.com. SFGN, as a private corporation, reserves the right to enforce its own standards regarding the suitability of advertising copy, illustrations and photographs. Copyright © 2014 South Florida Gay News.com, Inc.

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Gay Jews Getting Ready To Party John McDonald

After Passover there’s the Shvitz. Gay Jews are getting together for a weekend of fun in the South Florida sun, April 24-26. Shvitz! – a Yiddish word meaning sweat – is the title of a new event designed to bring gay Jewish guys and their admirers together. “Our crowd is the husband hunting crowd,” said Jayson Littman, who described himself as the official Shvitz! Yenta. Advertised as the “He’bro Destination for Gay Jews and Those Who Love Us,” Shvitz! is modeled after similar parties that Littman has thrown in New York during High Holy Days. He said his He’bro brand started in 2008 on Christmas eve and, thanks to Facebook, grew into a popular and eagerly anticipated party. The Marriott Pompano Beach Resort and Spa is the host hotel for Shvitz! and hotel rooms and weekend passes can be purchased at www.shvitzweekend.com The Greater Fort Lauderdale Convention & Visitors Bureau is one of the event’s sponsors. Richard Gray, managing director for the CVB’s LGBT market, said hosting

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this He’bro gathering was a score for the destination. “Their attendees are pretty much from the New York area and generally choose Miami over Fort Lauderdale so Shvitz is a perfect opportunity for us to showcase and promote our extraordinary diversity here in Broward County,” Gray said. Activities for Jew boys and bagel chasers include a Friday night dinner in white attire, a beach outing on Saturday capped off with a Saturday night dance party at The Manor Nightclub in Wilton Manors.

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News Briefs

Sen. Josh McKoon

Georgia 'Religious Freedom' Bill Stalls in House Committee (AP) A divisive religious freedom bill stalled Thursday in a Georgia House committee after a Republican member of the panel successfully added anti-discrimination language to the proposal. Members of the Judiciary Committee voted to table the bill immediately after nine lawmakers on the panel supported the addition from Rep. Mike Jacobs, R-Brookhaven. Two other Republicans also voted in favor. Supporters of the bill said the change swallows the legal protection it is intended to provide for people acting on their religious beliefs. Opponents of the measure from Sen. Josh McKoon, R-Columbus, have pushed for anti-discrimination language to ensure the bill could not be used as legal cover for such treatment of gays and transgender people. Jacobs said the majority of emails he's received from his

Photo: Facebook.

over Jamie Foxx's Jenner Outrage joke at iHeartRadio Music Awards

(CNN) -- Some viewers of the iHeartRadio Music Awards on Sunday night took to social media to vent about the opening monologue, saying one controversial joke by Jamie Foxx crossed the line. Foxx, the actor and musician who won an Oscar for his portrayal of Ray Charles, hosted the second annual awards show in Los Angeles. "We got some groundbreaking performances, here too, tonight," Foxx said. "We got Bruce Jenner, who will be doing some musical performances. He's doing a his-and-her duet all by himself." There have been reports that Jenner, an Olympic gold medalist, plans to transition from male to female. However, Jenner has not spoken publicly about any such possibility. Many television viewers took to social media to complain that the joke was offensive to people struggling with issues of gender and sexual identity. The hashtag #iHeartRadioMusicAwards remained a top trend Monday. "Jamie Foxx just made a terrible, disgusting joke about Bruce Jenner's rumored transition on this trash awards

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metro Atlanta district were from people opposed to the bill. McKoon's bill would forbid government from infringing on a person's religious beliefs unless the government can prove a compelling interest and would cover individuals and closely held corporations. Critics say such measures are being considered in 13 states as the U.S. Supreme Court prepares for a possible ruling legalizing same-sex marriage nationwide. Some Georgia business interests made their strongest negative comments yet on the bill Thursday, while other opponents pointed to Indiana companies and convention organizers warning of economic harm in that state following Gov. Mike Pence signing a similar measure. Committees can resume debate on tabled bills, but lawmakers plan to wrap up the 40-day session by midnight of April 2.

show," tweeted @laurennostro. "Seriously #JamieFoxx? #BruceJenner jokes?" wrote @ AngelaPquigley. "You're disgusting, that's not ok. It wasn't funny, just mean spirited and lazy." In his monologue, Foxx also took potshots at the "Blurred Lines" copyright-infringement battle and the health of a famous 1990s record executive. Those jokes found more acceptance than the Jenner quip. "Marvin Gaye just made $7.4 million just last week. He's making beats in heaven. It's crazy," he joked. "He might be dead, but he ain't dead broke." The crowd laughed again when Foxx turned to Death Row Records founder Marion "Suge" Knight, who has been charged with murder in the hit-and-run death of a man run over by a truck. "He will not be here tonight," Foxx said of Knight. "He founded Tha Dogg Pound, Snoop Dogg, Nate Dogg, and now he needs a seeing-eye dog." Knight collapsed in court recently, as a result of ongoing health issues, after a judge set his bail at $25 million in the murder case. He hit his head during the fall, knocking himself out.

A spokesperson was unsure of the full extent of the fire's damage, but said that many buildings including the Ice Palace nightclub, Cherry Grove Beach and Holly House were engulfed in the blaze that was affecting "the entire downtown business district" near Holly and Bayview Walks. Two firefighters suffered minor injuries in the blaze and were taken to a hospital, the spokesperson said. The Ice Palace nightclub is a social institution in the Cherry Grove, one of two gay communities on Fire Island. It is the site of promoter Daniel Nardicio's annual summer series that includes his weekly underwear parties and cabaret series. In recent years, its stage has played host to some of the biggest gay icons in the business including Lady Gaga, Liza Minnelli, Carol Channing, Chita Rivera, John Waters and Justin Vivian Bond. With its lack of roads and narrow wooden boardwalks, fires are particularly devastating on Fire Island. Off-season, when the island's communities are deserted, they can be catastrophic. In November of 2011, a fire that took 400 local firefighters to battle destroyed the Pavilion and Sip 'N Twirl nightclubs in neighboring gay community Fire Island Pines. Both businesses have since been rebuilt.

Engulfs Businesses in Inferno Cherry Grove, Fire Island

(Edge) A huge fire that sparked overnight has done extensive damage to the gay vacation destination of Cherry Grove on Fire Island. The legendary Ice Palace nightclub and Cherry Grove Beach Hotel are among the victims of the blaze. Long Island News 12.com reports. The fire was first reported around 1:30 AM, at which time numerous fire departments from Fire Island were called to battle the flames. Fire companies Sayville, West Sayville and seven other mainland fire departments and ambulance companies on Long Island travelled by boat across the Great South Bay to fight the inferno. According to PIX 11 News, of 5:45 AM the fire was still burning.

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News Briefs Indiana Backlash

Photo: CNN.

Pence's Struggles Illustrate Gay Rights Challenge Facing GOP (CNN) -- Indiana Gov. Mike Pence got five cracks at answering the question that has triggered intense backlash against his state's new "religious freedom" law. The law allows individuals to assert in court that state laws and local ordinances violate their religious beliefs. That, opponents fret, could put LGBT Hoosiers at increased risk of discrimination. ABC host George Stephanopoulos said all he wanted Sunday was a yes or a no: "Do you think it should be legal in the state of Indiana to discriminate against gays or lesbians?" Each time, the Republican governor and potential 2016 White House contender deflected. His struggle illustrated the difficulties Republicans could face headed into the 2016 election -- pulled between a base that supports "religious freedom" bills like Indiana's and the broader electorate -- in a country increasingly intolerant of politicians who oppose gay rights. And it highlights the potential for a rift the issue poses for Republicans torn between social conservatives whose support they need and Big Business, a traditional bigmoney constituency that has broken in a big way with

ndiana Plans Language to 'Clarify' Religious Objections Law

(AP) Republican legislative leaders in Indiana say they are working on adding language to a new state law to make it clear that it doesn't allow discrimination against gays and lesbians. The move comes amid widespread outcry over the measure that prohibits state laws that "substantially burden" a person's ability to follow his or her religious beliefs. House Speaker Brian Bosma said at a news conference Monday that the law was meant to promote a message of inclusion but has instead led to one of exclusion. He blamed the fallout on a "mischaracterization" of the legislation. Indiana Gov. Mike Pence signed the measure last week. He defended it during a television appearance Sunday but did not directly answer questions about whether it allowed discrimination against gays and lesbians. Photo: WXIN.

CAA Says It Will Monitor Impacts of Indiana Religious Law

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(AP) With the Final Four a week away from shining a spotlight on Indianapolis, NCAA President Mark Emmert said Thursday that the governing body for college sports is concerned about an Indiana law that could allow businesses to discriminate against gay people. The law would prohibit state and local laws that "substantially burden" the ability of people - including businesses and associations - to follow their religious beliefs. The NCAA offices are located in Indianapolis, and Emmert

the party when GOP-led statehouses have advanced measures perceived as anti-LGBT. On Sunday, Pence seemed puzzled that Indiana's new law has become so controversial when the federal government and 18 other state legislatures had adopted similar ones over the last 20 years. Indiana's situation is different. Unlike other states like Illinois, where then-state Sen. Barack Obama supported a similar measure, it doesn't also have a law prohibiting discrimination based on sexual orientation. And while the debates in those states were typically focused on ensuring the rights of minority groups, Indiana's push was driven by social conservatives who'd just lost a bid to amend a ban on same-sex marriage into the state's constitution a year earlier. But the bigger difference is the sea change in voter attitudes toward gay rights -- and the reality that many, starting in Indiana, have come to view the push for "religious freedom" bills as a coded rebellion against a flood of legislative actions and judicial decisions legalizing same-sex marriage, with the biggest one yet, from the Supreme Court, expected in June.

said the organization was concerned about how it might impact student athletes and employees. His terse statement also suggested the NCAA might consider moving future events out of Indianapolis. The conflict arises as thousands of college basketball fans prepare to converge on the city for the conclusion of the NCAA Tournament, an economic behemoth in college sports. The 14year television contract alone for the event is worth $10.8 billion. The NCAA has been a mainstay in downtown Indianapolis since 1999, when it relocated from its Kansas location in part because of a rich public-private investment deal from the city to establish the headquarters. But the new law could put the association in a difficult position. While it has a close relationship with Indiana's capital city, college sports have been at the forefront of several breakthroughs for gay rights in the last two years, and the young adults and college students the NCAA represents have generally been supportive of those changes. An online push for the NCAA to react to the bill began a couple of days ago with the hashtag (hash)Final4Fairness. Former professional basketball player Jason Collins, the first openly gay athlete to play in the NBA, tweeted: "(at)GovPenceIN, is it going to be legal for someone to discriminate against me & others when we come to the (hash)FinalFour?" The LGBT Sports Coalition also called for the NCAA, the Big Ten, the NFL and USA Diving and USA Gymnastics to pull events from Indianapolis over the next 16 months.

backlash: Opposition to Indiana anti-gay law grows

(CNN) Add Angie's List to the roster of companies and business interests taking a stand against Indiana's new antigay law. CEO Bill Oesterle announced Saturday that the company had put its proposed campus expansion project in Indianapolis "on hold" following the passage of the Religious Freedom Restoration Act.

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Other businesses have also spoken out against the law saying, it will make it harder to attract employees and customers. They note that Indiana doesn't currently have any laws prohibiting discrimination against gay people. NBA, WNBA, Indiana Pacers and Indiana Fever: "The game of basketball is grounded in long established principles of inclusion and mutual respect. We will continue to ensure that all fans, players and employees feel welcome at all NBA and WNBA events in Indiana and elsewhere." Apple: CEO Tim Cook tweeted that "Apple is open for everyone. We are deeply disappointed in Indiana's new law... Around the world, we strive to treat every customer the same â&#x20AC;&#x201D; regardless of where they come from, how they worship or who they love." Indiana Chamber of Commerce: "In our eyes, the law is entirely unnecessary. Passing the law was always going to bring the state unwanted attention." Eli Lilly: "We certainly understand the implications this legislation has on our ability to attract and retain employees. Simply put, we believe discriminatory legislation is bad for Indiana and for business." Gen Con, the video game convention: The law would "factor into our decision making on hosting the convention in the state of Indiana in future years." Salesforce: CEO Marc Benioff said on Twitter that his company will "dramatically reduce our investments" in Indiana, calling the law an "outrage." Benioff called on other CEOs in the tech industry to follow suit. Yelp: CEO Jeremy Stoppelman said the company will "make every effort" to expand its corporate operations in states that do not have such laws on the books. "These laws set a terrible precedent that will likely harm the broader economic health of the states where they have been adopted, the businesses currently operating in those states and, most importantly, the consumers who could be victimized under these laws."

news briefs

Continued

irst American Injured In Iraq War To Lead Pledge At LGBT Ceremony

alifornia Attorney General Moves to End Anti-Gay Initiative

Gregg Canes/CNN.

Photo: CNN.

(AP) The organizers of the 50th Anniversary Celebration of the LGBT civil rights movement today announced that Staff Sergeant Eric Fidelis Alva, the first American seriously injured in the Iraq War on March 21, 2003, will lead the Pledge of Allegiance at the July 4th ceremony at Independence Mall. Alva was in charge of 11 Marines in a supply unit when he stepped on a land mine and lost his right leg and was one of many openly gay service members demanding the repeal of the “Don’t Ask Don’t Tell” policy. "To me, history means telling the stories of our lives in this country - all of our lives,” said Alva, “I am honored and humbled to lead the Pledge of Allegiance at the 50th anniversary

ceremony as someone who served this country as a Marine with pride and distinction. When I say ‘with liberty and justice for all’ it is with the knowledge that every day we get a step closer to that being true for all LGBT people, and also with a great deal of pride that we are recognizing the legacy of pioneers like Frank Kameny and Barbara Gittings upon whose shoulders we stand,” concluded Alva. Alva recently completed a Masters Degree in Social Work, sits on his local commission for Veteran Affairs and is a board member of Fiesta Youth, an organization that works with LGBT youth. For more information, visit www.lgbt50th. org and www.gaypioneers.com.

(AP) — California Attorney General Kamala Harris asked a state court on Wednesday for permission to reject a proposed ballot initiative stipulating that anyone who engages in gay sex be killed. Harris issued a statement saying she was making the unusual request to stop the measure filed by a Southern California lawyer late last month. The initiative seeks to amend the California penal code to make sex with a person of the same gender an offense punishable by "bullets to the head or by any other convenient method." The distribution of gay "propaganda" would be punishable by a $1 million fine or banishment from the state. Matthew McLaughlin, the Orange County lawyer who paid $200 to submit the initiative, did not respond to a telephone call seeking comment. A Democratic state senator, Ricardo Lara, has asked the California bar to investigate whether McLaughlin's actions make him unfit to practice law.

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University of California, Davis law professor Floyd Feeney, an expert on California's initiative process, said Harris alone cannot impede the proposed law. And despite the numerous legal problems with McLaughlin's proposal, Feeney said he was not convinced a court would agree to halt it at this stage. "The courts, rightly or wrongly, treat the initiative as sort of the citizen right and they are reluctant to get involved in trying to get rid of it, at least in advance, by using the law to keep something from being presented to the electorate," he said. On Wednesday, a Southern California real estate agent, Charlotte Laws, countered the so-called "Sodomite Suppression Act" with an initiative of her own. Titled the Intolerant Jackass Act, it would require anyone who proposes an initiative calling for the killing of gays and lesbians to attend sensitivity training and make a $5,000 donation to a pro-LGBT group.

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news briefs

Continued

he Rainbow Heritage Network and the National Park Service Ask You to Get Involved with the LGBTQ Heritage Initiative

1920's NY drag show.

The National park Service’s LGBTQ initiative aims to “identify places and events associated with the story of LGBTQ Americans for inclusion in the parks and programs of the National Park Service. Secretary Jewell made the announcement outside the Stonewall Inn in New York City. The theme study is part of the broader heritage initiative with the following goals: engaging scholars, preservationists and community members to identify, research, and tell the stories of LGBTQ associated properties; encouraging national parks, national heritage areas, and other affiliated areas to interpret LGBTQ stories associated with them; identifying, documenting, and nominating LGBTQ-associated sites as national historic landmarks; increasing the number of listings of LGBTQ-associated properties in the National Register of Historic Places.”

DC funds HIV Prevention Efforts For MSM

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention announced Tuesday it would be allocating $185 million to HIV prevention efforts for men who have sex with men (MSM) and transgender people. In a news release, the CDC disclosed plans to award $125 million to state and local health departments. The agency also announced a focus on African Americans and Latinos with new programs designed to promote pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) for HIV negative people along with on-going care and antiretroviral treatment for HIV positive people to prevent transmission to others. “By harnessing the power of recent scientific breakthroughs, we can change the course of the epidemic among MSM and transgender people – who continue to face the highest risk for infection in this country,”

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“Public involvement in the National Park Service LGBTQ heritage initiative is critical to its success. The National Park Service has just released a document that brings together the many ways that people across America, regardless of identity, location, or how much time they have, can participate and engage with the Initiative. These include sharing information about places important to your community, spreading the word, visiting historic places, and writing nominations or nomination amendments for the National Register of Historic Places or National Historic Landmarks programs. Suggestions include links to supporting information and examples,” said Megan Springate, prime consultant for the LGBTQ Heritage Initiative and co-founder of the Rainbow Heritage Network. The listing of ways to get involved can be found at nps.gov/history/heritageinitiatives/ LGBThistory/GetInvolved.pdf.

said Jonathan Mermin, M.D., the director for the CDC’s National Center for HIV/AIDS. The CDC estimates more than half of the 1.2 million people living with HIV in the U.S. are men who have sex with men. PrEP, a treatment strategy of taking one pill of Truvada or Stribild, daily, has been widely praised for its success in blocking the virus that causes AIDS. “Science tells us that increasing PrEP access and engaging more HIV positive people in care and treatment could prevent tens of thousands of new HIV infections, but these strategies remain underused,” said Kevin McCray, M.D., director of the CDC’s Division of HIV Prevention. “This new funding will drive wider adoption where it’s urgently needed and provide lessons on how to improve uptake nationally.”

news election 2016 White House Watch:

Chris Christie

John McDonald

New Jersey Governor Chris James Christie lands in SFGN’s White House Watch this week as speculation begins to swirl as to if the head of the Republican Governors Association will mount a campaign for the Oval Office. Christie, New Jersey Governor since 2010, is often mentioned as a candidate in the large GOP field. He gave the party’s keynote speech during the 2012 national convention in Tampa. Later that year, he inserted himself into the general election campaign by meeting U.S. President Barack Obama in New Jersey to deal with the natural disaster known as Hurricane Super storm Sandy. This move angered the Mitt Romney campaign and some analysts believe it cost Romney the election. Christie, 51, is a lifelong resident of New Jersey and has served as the U.S. Attorney for the District of New Jersey since 2002. He is a graduate of Seton Hall School of Law, is married to wife Mary Pat and has four children.SFGN_Florida_House2.pdf 1 3/4/2015 1:52:50 PM

If he decides to run for U.S. President, Christie would be one of the more qualified candidates although he would be faced with questions concerning his role in shutting down a bridge to Fort Lee, a blunt style of public interaction and a propensity to solve problems in big government fashion. In terms of gay and lesbian issues, Christie is a moderate. He has banned conversion therapy programs in New Jersey, recognizing that being gay is innate. As a Catholic, Christie believes marriage is between one man and one woman and he vetoed legislation to enact same-sex marriage in New Jersey, preferring the state offer civil unions instead.

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news bites

by John McDonald

lesbian ongressional Black Caucus Fund Lands Victory CEO Position

Aisha C. Moodie-Mills has been tapped to become the new President and CEO of the Gay & Lesbian Victory Fund, a Washington, D.C. organization. Moodie-Mills is a married woman and the first lesbian to lead the national organization whose mission is to elect openly LGBT leaders to public office. U.S. Senator Tammy Baldwin (D-Wisconsin) said MoodieMills “will bring a smart, inclusive and experienced brand of leadership to the job.” Moodie-Mills is well known in D.C. circles as a successful fundraiser for six U.S. Senators and the Congressional Black Caucus. She most recently launched the FIRE initiative at the Center for American Progress.

Aisha C. Moodie-Mills. Photo: americanprogress.org

gay

ll-American Wrestler Grapples with Decision to Come Out

Mike Pucillo, a former collegiate championship wrestler, disclosed he is gay. Pucillo, 26, was an All-American and National Champion at Ohio State University in Columbus, Ohio. In an interview with Jason Bryant of the Open Mat, Pucillo had a difficult time saying he is gay. “You’ve been told that (homosexuality) is a bad thing your entire life,” Pucillo said of his resistance to be public about his sexual orientation. Pucillo attended a private Catholic college preparatory school before enrolling at Ohio State where he was a three-time AllAmerican and 2008 National Champion. Wrestling fans can follow Pucillo on Twitter via the handle @MPucillo84.

Mike Pucillo

bisexual

i Man Beats Gay Man

Investigators believe a closeted bisexual man brutally beat a gay man in the town of Cornith, Mississippi. According to Corinth Police Chief Ralph Dance, the victim is 26-year-old Deven Norman who suffered a broken cheekbone at the hands of 23-year-old James David Scott. Both men are Mississippians. They met at a Wal-Mart parking lot after a contentious posting on Facebook. That’s where Scott allegedly threw Norman to the ground and kicked him several times in the face. “We’ve heard from several people, including the victim, that the suspect beat him up because he’s homosexual,” Dance told WTVA, a Tupelo, Miss. television station.

transgender

irth Certiﬁcate Bill Advances in Colorado

A Colorado House committee advanced a bill last week which would allow transgender people to make changes to their birth certificates. Passed on an 8-5 vote, the legislation would ease requirements such as undergoing gender reassignment surgery or going before a judge in order to make a change to one’s birth certificate. The bill would put Colorado in line with federal regulations for changing passports. “This has been an eye-opening day,” said Lois Landgraf, a state representative from Fountain, Colo. and the lone Republican to vote for the bill. Opponents voiced concern of rewriting “historical and biological facts.”

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James David Scott. Corinth Police Dept.

news local

Pride Fort Lauderdale Honors City Commissioner Dean Trantalis Staff Report

Pride Fort Lauderdale held its inaugural event of 2015 Monday evening, March 30, at the Pride Center, honoring Fort Lauderdale City Commissioner Dean Trantalis with its ‘Pridehonors’ series Medallion Award. First elected to the City Commission in 2002, Trantalis, an attorney, was given the award for “forty years of meritorious service on behalf of the cause of LGBT human rights.” And he promptly delivered a stern warning to the audience of over 100 persons that the fight is not over. “While I am ever so grateful for the award,” he said, “we must all be ever so vigilant against the continuing encroachments on our freedoms, as we are seeing in Indiana this week.” Trantalis reminded the crowd early Pride marches years ago were protest rallies to protect LGBT rights, and that there “are still battles to be won, and we can’t let up.” The ceremony honored Trantalis, but promoted the two-day festival slated for

Holiday Park in Fort Lauderdale on October 10 and 11 this year. Norm Kent, the Chair of the newly renamed Pride Fort Lauderdale, announced that the event’s theme would be “We’re Coming Out,” tying in to National Coming Out Day, which is October 11. PFL also announced at the meeting that the next Medallion Awards Ceremony in the ‘Pridehonors’ series would be going to Broward County Court jurists Robert Lee and Lisa Porter, a gay man and gay woman, who presided over same sex weddings earlier this year, hours after they were declared legal in a court opinion. “Our goal this year in the ‘Pridehonors’ series is to honor and acknowledge all the good people who have been helping our community for years,” said John Fugate, the Event Chair. Earlier this year, Pride South Florida changed its legal corporate name from Pride One of Broward County to Greater Fort

Lauderdale Pride, Inc., and adopted a new name and logo, operating under the new moniker of Pride Fort Lauderdale. A silent auction with gift baskets donated by local businesses raised a few hundred dollars to fund the festival. Dignity Memorial Network sponsored Monday's event, with Catering Solutions providing hot hors d'oeuvres. The AIDS Healthcare Foundation will be the presenting sponsor for the October festival, joined with support from the Greater Fort Lauderdale Convention and Visitors Bureau. The event will also partner with the Fort Lauderdale Gay and Lesbian Film Festival to showcase LGBT films. Will McKell, Pride Fort Lauderdale’s newly appointed office manager and program specialist stated the group was looking for volunteers to help coordinate a series of upcoming events. “Pride Fort Lauderdale,” he noted, “is one of the 501(c)3 groups you can even volunteer

soflagaynews //

Dean Trantalis. Photo: J.R. Davis.

for to fulfill judicially ordered community service hours.” He can be reached at 954-5612020.

SouthFloridaGayNews // SFGN.com // 4 .1.2015 //

news local Bunnies on the Drive comes to Richardson Historic Park Saturday Photos: Facebook.com (left) Wiltonmanors.com (right)

Jillian Melero

It started with a garden party. Lori Parrish estimates there are more than a thousand varieties of orchid in her garden in west Davie. So when three years ago, Mark Ketcham, executive director at SunServe, approached Parrish about holding a benefit in her honor, she instead offered to host a charity to benefit SunServe. She thought her garden would be the perfect place. “It was all very British; tea and crumpets… well spiked tea. With vodka,” said garden party guest and SunServe administrative director, Bryan Wilson. Now, the garden party that began in 2012 among Parrish’s extensive array of orchids, has bloomed into its own, full on festival, benefitting SunServe and now Share-A-Pet. Share-A-Pet is a nonprofit that provides free pet assisted therapy to hospitals, nursing homes, and children’s centers. SunServe is a local LGBTQ social service agency. Parrish served as a member of the Broward County Commission from 1988 until leaving in 2004 to run for Broward County Property Appraiser, the office she holds now. Parrish is listed in SunServe’s Guardian Circle as a silver level contributor. “I have been a longtime supporter of the LGBT community, and they have been supportive of me,” said Parrish. While the fundraiser was a continued success over the next few years, Parrish and Wilson noted that the group of guests had remained at the same core of about 60 people. Wanting to expand, they decided it was time to move the event to a more accessible location, Wilton Manors’ Richardson Park, in the hopes of gathering new attendees. The new and improved fundraiser, now called Bunnies on the Drive, will feature at least one carry over from the original

garden party, the bonnet contest, judged by fellow local philanthropist Rita Case, of Rick Case Automotive Group. “Rita always wears these great hats, so we thought she’d be perfect,” said Parrish. What are the criteria for judging? “Outrageousness,” said Wilson, who had previously garnered second place in the competition. “I had a bird, not a real one, in a cage on my bonnet, and I promised to release it and set it free in the spirit of the LGBT community if I placed.” A new feature in the garden party lineup will be the Gym Bunny competition, sponsored by the Village Pub. Contestants are encouraged to show up and show out in their best gym bunny outfits, but are also asked to keep things “kid friendly” as this will be a family friendly event. Children and their families can enter contests like the water balloon race, and the bunny toss. Contestants will attempt to win prizes by tossing toy bunnies from the second story balcony of the Richardson Family Manor, into gift baskets donated by the various sponsors. Wilson thinks the new choice of location will help add to the sense of common ground and community that he and other members of SunServe work to foster. And the inclusion of Share-A-Pet as a new beneficiary will help diversify the group of contributors to that cause. “People tend to think that sharing an event with another nonprofit sort of narrows the pool of donors, but it doesn’t. It broadens it. There are people who will come for SunServe that may never have heard of Share-A-Pet and vice versa,” said Wilson. While the event is free for everyone, there is a suggested donation of 10 dollars.

The first annual Bunnies on the Drive will take place in Richardson Historic Park and Nature Preserve, 1937 Wilton Drive, Wilton Manors, on Saturday April 4from 1 p.m. – 6 p.m.

// 4.1.2015 // SFGN.com //

soflagaynews //

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SouthFloridaGayNews // SFGN.com // 4 .1.2015 //

news NATIONAL

LGBT Journalists Gather for Philly Conference Chuck Colbert A select group of LGBT media professionals, including journalists and bloggers, who cover “our” community gathered recently for a weekend forum concerning a range of LGBT community issues and media-related concerns. Sponsored by the National Lesbian and Gay Journalists Association (NLGJA) and funded by the Evelyn and Walter Haas Jr. Fund, the 6th annual LGBT Media Journalists Convening was held March 13 – 15 at Radisson Blu Warwick. A private family foundation based in San Francisco, the Haas fund “promotes equal rights and opportunities with an emphasis on immigrants and gays and lesbians,” according to its mission statement. NLGJA is an “organization of journalists, media professionals, educators and students working from within the news industry to foster fair and accurate coverage of LGBT issues,” according to its website. NLGJA board member Bil Browning, founder and publisher of the Bilerico Project blog, organized the weekend forum. Also representing Bilerico was its editor in chief John Becker, who wrote about the gathering. “The purpose of the invitation-only conference is to bring a diverse group of LGBT media personalities together to discuss issues related to queer media,” wrote Becker in a preview piece. “The theme of this year’s Convening is ‘Now What?,’ and the sessions ... focus[ed] on exploring what happens in the LGBT civil rights movement beyond marriage and employment equality. For example, Saturday’s panel discussions and break out sessions addressed the latest Right Wing push to legalize discrimination based on religious liberty, reporting of HIV, media coverage of bisexuality and bisexuals, and the intersection between LGBT rights and full equality and struggles for racial and gender equality. The Rev. William Barber, president of the North Carolina NAACP and a prime mover in the state’s Moral Monday movement, delivered the opening keynote address on Friday evening. An assistant district attorney for the City of Philadelphia announced that Mayor Michael A. Nutter proclaimed March 14, “LGBT Media Journalism Day.” The Convening’s host committee included, in addition to Browning, The Source Weekly’s associate editor Erin Rook, NLGJA’s vice president for print and digital media Sarah Blazucki, transgender rights advocate and freelance writer Brynn Tannehill, AfterEllen.com’s editor-inchief Trish Bendix, Mark King of the My Fabulous Disease blog, Faith Cheltenham of the BiNet USA blog, and Haas Foundation’s senior program director Matt Foreman.

// 4.1.2015 // SFGN.com //

Photo: LGBT Media Journalists Convening Facebook Page

Panel Discussion at the 2015 National Lesbian & Gay Journalists Association “Convening” Conference in Philadelphia The Convening received other preview press coverage by LGBT outlets Browning told The Source Weekly: “For journalists focused on the LGBT beat, an invitation has become quite the status symbol for being recognized as a valuable community reporter.” He went on to say, that, because it’s not uncommon for writers to cover a variety of issues pertaining to diversity, the conference seeks to reflect the diversity of the community in its attendees and presenters. “We specifically aim to bring in not only the LGBT state/local newspapers and large audience bloggers, but we also search for up-and-coming voices and try to lift up the voices of people of color, trans folk, and women.”

“For journalists focused on the LGBT beat, an invitation has become quite the status symbol for being recognized as a valuable community reporter.” Bil Browning, NLGJA Board Member

In the same piece, associate editor Rook spoke to the value of attending the annual gathering. “The lessons I take away from these conferences have a broader impact than simply sharpening my reportage on LGBTQ issues,” he wrote. “Participating in the convening makes me a better, all-around journalist by teaching me how to better cover diverse communities of all types and how to dig deep for new stories and new angles. Spending the weekend with 75 professionals and experts gets the gears turning about ways I can better serve my community as a journalist. And I always leave with new perspectives—and tools—to do my job better. South Florida Gay News also did a preview piece in which Browning spoke to the issue of diversity: “Many of the larger outlets are still run soflagaynews //

by cisgender white men so we try to also reflect the diversity that is our community — especially in online journalism. Often these journalists are the only ones reporting in any depth on issues like race, class, and gender. The intersectionality of our community and how we can translate LGBT-specific needs into broader issues is the focus of this year’s Convening.” Other attendees offered their impressions and observations. Zack Ford, LGBT editor, ThinkProgress.org, Center for American Progress Action Fund, offered his perspective. “Those of us who write about LGBT topics may sometimes compete for traffic on our websites, but we’re largely still a team working together to raise visibility and awareness about issues affecting the queer community,” he said in email correspondence. “Conferences like this are the perfect opportunity for us to connect with each other, learn from each other’s expertise and experience, and find new ways to lift up each other’s work and build off of it. I relish the opportunity to put handshakes to Twitter profiles and establish new partnerships as we all continue doing this important work.” For her part, host committee member Tannehill said in an email, “I think my favorite part of the conference was meeting Spectra Asala. She was amazing, and after her panel I spoke with her at length. I learned a lot about the intersection of colonialism, and the growth of homophobia and transphobia in West Africa. I learned a bit about her home country as well, and it was so new to me that it was mind blowing.” Asala, an award-winning Nigerian writer, and women’s rights activist, served on a panel “What Happens When the dog Catches the Car?” The focus was on the future of LGBTQ media coverage in a post-marriage equality landscape. Other panelists included GLAAD senior media strategist of national news Tiq Milan and activist and author Urvashi Vaid. Associate editor Rook served as moderator. First time Convening attendee Tammye Nash,

SouthFloridaGayNews

Dallas Voice managing editor, said in email, “Getting to meet other LGBT journalists and bloggers actually working in LGBT media, rather than in the mainstream, was certainly one of the highlights of the weekend for me. Talking to them about the issues we all face and ways that maybe we can address those issues made the whole weekend worthwhile. “I also enjoyed listening to the panelists and hearing their points of view. I can’t say I agreed with everything everyone said. But it was all certainly food for thought. It made me think about things from points of view I had not considered before. “Rev. Barber’s address on Friday night was amazing, one of the most powerful I have heard in a long time. I totally agree with his points about a fusion movement, something that was echoed repeatedly throughout the weekend when people spoke of intersectionality and working with allies. And Tiq Milan’s comment about how LGBTQs really aren’t one community but instead a coalition of communities really hit home.” For Rebecca Juro, freelance journalist and columnist for South Florida Gay News and Windy City Times, two highlights were Rev. Barber’s keynote and the panel “Naming and the LGBTQ Community” moderated by Brynn Tannehill. “It was the best trans-relevant discussion of the day,” she said in email. “I liked the way trans issues were handled very much,” Juro added. “It felt to me like trans people and issues are fully integrated in this event, and that feels really good. Trans people can be an afterthought in politics and in straight media much of the time, but that’s not the case here, and it shows in just about every way.” For Juro, “The best part of the Convening is the networking and comparing notes with other LGBT journalists,” she said. “I always learn so much from that, and it definitely helps inform the opinions I express in my columns and op-eds.”

news local

Notes from SFAN AIDS network holds monthly meeting Sean McShee Next SFAN Meeting: Friday, April 3 at 10:00 a.m., at the Holy Cross Healthplex, 1000 NE 56th Street, Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33334. Newcomers are encouraged to attend. Joshua Rodriguez, Broward Department of Health, reported on changes in the AIDS Insurance Continuation Program (AICP), and on the transition of AIDS Drug Assistance Program (ADAP) clients to the Affordable Care Act (ACA) marketplace plans. As of March 31, 2015, the Health Council of South Florida will cease to administer AICP. Local ADAP offices will administer AICP thereafter. The Health Council will process payments through April 30. AICP clients should contact their local ADAP office by March 31 to begin this transition. If anyone has questions, they should call the Health Council of South Florida, 1-855-659-7072 or their local ADAP office. A total of 399 ADAP clients have successfully moved from ADAP to ACA marketplace plans. According to Joey Wynn, Chair of SFAN, ADAP clients have received confusing messages about the eligibility to use pharmacies other than CVS, the Pharmacy Benefits Manager for ADAP. Jimmy R, Lleque of the ADAP Unit issued a statement on February 16, 2015 to clarify the issue of pharmacy choice. ADAP will pay pharmacies other than CVS to fill prescriptions, but using other pharmacies makes monitoring client use difficult. CVS’s computerized system automatically provides this monitoring. If an ADAP client wants to use a pharmacy other than CVS, they should contact their local ADAP office to work out an alternative system. If someone tells an ADAP/AICP client that they must use CVS for prescriptions, they should call (954) 467-4700 ext. 5669. Janet Vargas, Broward County Ryan White Care, reported on the Health Insurance Continuation Program (HICP). Unlike AICP, HICP serves HIV infected people eligible for an ACA plan, but with incomes too high to qualify for the subsidies. HICP provides these clients with funds to pay for an ACA marketplace plan. It has moved 175 RWC clients into ACA marketplace plans. Vargas also reported on a TV ad campaign to encourage out-of-treatment HIV positives

to return to HIV treatment. Scripted “infomercials” and banner messages began to run the week of March 9, 2015. While many people enter care after testing positive, a large number drop out (see chart “Number of Floridians in 2013 Missing from HIV Care at Each Point in the Continuum of Care”). If you have dropped out of HIV care, but would like to return to HIV care, call (954) 357-9797. Wynn announced that the ADAP Advocacy Association will host an ADAP Regional Summit on April 10, 2015 in Atlanta, GA. This conference will focus on current issues affecting ADAP. For more information, please visit www.adapadvocacyassociation.org/events. html#rs15 and look for “ADAP Advocacy Association Regional Summit – Atlanta.” This Summit has no registration fee but preregistration is required. Wynn also reported that the Patient Access Network (PAN) Foundation has expanded its eligibility criteria for financial assistance for PrEP. Patients need to meet the following eligibility criteria: 1. Be HIV uninfected but at high risk of becoming infected 2. Have some form of primary insurance 3. Reside and receive treatment in the U.S., (citizenship not required); and 4. Have a household income less than 500 percent of U.S. poverty level, (about $58, 850 for single person). For those eligible and enrolled, PAN fund will cover out-of-pocket costs associated with PrEP. For more information, please visit PanFoundation.org/hiv-treatment-andprevention.

Next SFAN Meeting: Friday, April 3 at 10:00 a.m., at the Holy Cross Healthplex, 1000 NE 56th Street, Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33334. Newcomers are encouraged to attend. soflagaynews //

SouthFloridaGayNews // SFGN.com // 4 .1.2015 //

feature passages

The Magical Cashetta An All Star Farewell

Michael Cook

I vividly recall the first time I saw Cashetta. Cigarette in hand (it was the 90's) I walked into the Barracuda in New York City's Chelsea neighborhood with a close friend and we watched her host "Star Search.” Cashetta kept the contestants on their toes and the audience laughing. Even after so many other bars opened or closed, visiting Cashetta on our city trips was then, a necessity. I made her shows in Fort Lauderdale a must see, and when she moved full time to Rehoboth Beach, I got to get to know Scott, the man behind (Cashetta) more intimately. I interviewed him and found a kindred spirit with a biting humor and sarcasm to spare; two qualities that are essential to me. I will miss his shows, his smiles, and our chats; everything about Scott and about Cashetta…was simply magical. I knew so many performers; close friends and colleagues would want to share their warmest and most magical memories as well.

Roxy Overbrooke

(Rehoboth Beach DE, Blue Moon Spotlight Cast Member ) Scott/ Cashetta was one of the most talented, hilarious , real, and kind people I have ever had the pleasure to call friend! While we are deeply saddened by his sudden passing, I know Scott left such a positive mark on everyone he came in touch with. He leaves us with a legacy of Love and Laughter to last us an eternity.

Anthony LaMont

(New York City Drag Performer) An amazing artist/entertainer that has made an inspirational, memorable mark in the entertainment industry! This world was blessed to have Cashetta on this earth and now has moved on to a Greater Spot Light. Thank God for Sharing you Cashetta!

Robin Byrd

Gusty Winds

(Drag Entertainer) The most important family of all, is the one that you choose for yourself, Cashetta is my family and she will always be one of my "chosen.”

Mona Lotts

(Rehoboth Beach DE, Blue Moon hostess) To try and reduce someone's life to one sentence or one word is very difficult, but the one word to me that describes Scott is "REAL"! Scott was the same huge personality on the stage and off the stage. What you saw both on and off the stage is what you got!

Scott Nevins

("The People's Couch," Bravo) Cashetta befriended me when I was in college and would drive down from Westchester into the city to attend Star Search at Barracuda. On my last night of college/first night living in NYC, she asked if I would direct her cabaret show (which featured a then budding, talented queen named Pepper Mint). The crazy experience with this show sealed our friendship forever and I've adored her ever since. The last time we worked together was on RSVP cruises and it was as if no time had passed since we last saw one another. Scott was truly one of the nicest people in the world, and such a supportive and generous performer. There are A LOT of performers out there who lost a champion and a friend.

Jiggly Caliente

(RuPaul's Drag Race Season 4 contestant) Cashetta, sweet as pie introduced me on how to network on drag. She introduced me to one person that helped me boost my career in NYC, Laritza Dumont. For that my dear, I am in debt to you for life; for your kindness and willingness to help a babydrag out.

// 4.1.2015 // SFGN.com //

(The Robin Byrd Show) Sending STRENGTH and blessings to all who knew Cashetta and encountered her talents over the years of her life. She will always be remembered as one of a kind .She is now another one of our angels looking down on us from the rainbow bridge. R.I.P.

Jennifer McLain

(Fort Lauderdale Entertainer) Cashetta actually gave me my first show at Alibi. She was traveling every so often with the cruises and such, and was having difficulty finding acceptable replacements for her shows there. And by acceptable I mean she told me that every time she'd go away, all of her fans would email and message her about how they missed her and the replacement wasn't her, etc, etc. When she came back from the cruise, she told me it was one of the first times nobody complained LOL! When she went to Vegas the first time, I was hired full time and have been there ever since. So I've always been thankful that her audiences didn't hate me!

Barry Browder

(Wilton Manors VJ) Everyone loved Cashetta, Thousands of us got to see her perform her amazing acts live, lots of us got to spend time with her, a handful select got to know Scott. I am grateful that I could call Scott my friend. I miss you Kermen.

Misty Eyez

(Fort Lauderdale FL Drag Performer) Not only was Cashetta a legend but she was also a sister a friend - and an inspiration! She will be greatly missed.

soflagaynews //

SouthFloridaGayNews

Scott Cirlin

(Scott's best friend of thirty years and Cashetta's biggest fan) A lot of people know Cashetta, but a much smaller group of people knew Scott. He lost his mother at 12 years old, pretty devastating for any gay kid. We lost his father when we turned 17. My family became his and the clothes in the basement my mom saved for the cleaning lady, became the foundation of Cashetta’s wardrobe. If anyone had a right to complain about getting a raw deal early in life, it was Scott. But he never wallowed in sadness, or said woe is me. Humor was his oxygen, and it got him through every day. Over 29 years, we circled the globe, sometimes living in the same city, sometimes on total opposite sides of the country, but no matter where we physically were, we were always close. I’ll miss Cashetta the entertainer, but most of all, I’ll miss my best friend, Scott Weston. And my mother is still not over the time he wore her wedding dress to the Tunnel Club. To read more from Cashetta's friends and admirers, go to sfgn.com/cashetta.

CashettaPaloozaFTL

Georgie's Alibi, Wilton Manors FL Wednesday, April 1 at 9 p.m.

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SouthFloridaGayNews // SFGN.com // 4 .1.2015 3/25/15//3:5717 PM

sfgn exclusive: capitol cover story

FIVE Gay Ambassadors Host DC Forum at Newseum Event benefits the Harvey Milk Foundation

Norm Kent

norm.kent@sfgn.com

Stuart Milk. Credit Brook Pifer.

The Obama administration's commitment to administrative diversity was highlighted on Tuesday, March 24, in the nation’s Capitol when five openly gay U.S. ambassadors held a panel discussion that was simulcast on MSNBC.com. Chad Griffin, the Chair of the DC-based Human Rights Campaign, himself once a foreign service officer, kicked off the evening by remarking that it was "historic. There was a time that being a gay envoy required you to be in the closet because it made you a target." Today, however, Griffin noted that the LGBT community was able to "celebrate" the appointment of men like Randy Berry, the State Department's first ever envoy for LGBT rights. He called it a "powerful statement to the world that LGBT rights are human rights." Introducing Stuart Milk, Griffin went on to say that the foundation thrives today because Stuart has "a mission and legacy that began four decades ago with his uncle, Harvey, in San Francisco." The beneficiary of the event, the all-volunteer Milk Foundation is run out of Wilton Manors, guided by South Florida copyright attorney Miriam Richter, who introduced Tuesday night's program, which also featured senior representatives from the Gay and Lesbians in Foreign Affairs Agencies (GLIFFA), including its president, Selim Ariturk. His message was that “you have to stand up for your own.” Amongst the guests at the event were Judy and Dennis Shepherd, who together, years after the murder of her son, Matthew, in Wyoming, travel the globe speaking out about LGBT Equality. Randy Berry, the newly appointed special U.S. envoy to promote global LGBT rights, was also present. Stuart Milk, the program moderator, galvanized the crowd by stating "We have to have LGBT people at the table, visible, and out, even in difficult places,” and acknowledged that the Obama administration has led the way “in fostering human rights abroad by selecting ‘out’ ambassadors who are spokespersons for equality.” Still, even Milk remarked that “we have a ways to go,” noting the panelists were all white men, and that the “ ‘L,’ ‘B,’ and ‘T’ of our own populations needs to be administratively enhanced in the foreign service. The program allowed each of the gay ambassadors

// 4.1.2015 // SFGN.com //

to share personal experiences, and Ted Osius, the U.S. ambassador to Vietnam, related that he met his husband, Clayton Bond, in the foreign service while in Africa. “Years ago, being out meant you lost your security clearance. Today, being out lets you be who you are,” he remarked. Rufus Gifford, who had been President Obama’s Finance Director for his 2012 re-election campaign, echoed one of Harvey Milk’s most important themes. “Being out matters,” he said, “Everything you say matters and your personal story matters.” “It’s not just about negotiating trade deals and the standard diplomacy,” added Gifford. “It’s who you are too.” An avid runner, cyclist, and sailor, Ambassador Gifford stated that he was focused on the preservation of human rights around the globe, even fighting the effects of climate change, and speaking for the preservation of wildlife. He lives with his partner, veterinarian Dr. Stephen DeVincent. Daniel Baer, the ambassador for the office of Security and Cooperation of Europe, warned about present day dangers for the LGBT community. “We are seeing backsliding in Europe and bad things in Russia, too.” But he held out hope that “we are winning in other places,” referring to Vienna, for example, where he and his partner, Brian Walsh, married. Baer, who had previously taught Business Ethics at Georgetown, explained that he subscribed to the “Gandhi course of persistence.” Ambassador John Berry of Australia also echoed the importance of being visible, paying homage to the legacy of the late Frank Kameny, who devoted his life to fighting for the equal rights of gay American servicemen. Once the White House head of the Office of Personnel Management, Berry told a moving story that has emerged from a Sydney terror attack a few months ago. As a gunman moved through a coffee shop randomly shooting citizens, the manager of the restaurant confronted him, struggling to disarm the assassin. “He failed, and died in the struggle,” Berry said, “but as his story was told Australia learned he was a gay man who had been partnered for ten years, but could not marry. His courage, his legacy, like Mark Bingham, on 9/11, has helped change minds.”

soflagaynews //

SouthFloridaGayNews

Wally Brewster, the gay ambassador assigned to the Dominican Republic met with a challenge on his job immediately. A prominent Chicago businessman and gay rights activist, who owned property in the DR, religious groups and high profile church leaders immediately challenged his appointment as “an insult.” "President Obama has not considered the particularities of our people. The United States is trying to impose on us marriage between gays and lesbians as well as adoption by these couples," said Father Luis Rosario, director of youth ministries for the church. A major fundraiser for Obama’s campaigns, Brewster rebuked the onslaught. “That’s not who the Dominican people were as a whole,” but besides, he added, “no one is going to say God does not love me,” he asserted. Brewster then passionately added, “I have been with my husband, Bob Satawake, for the past 27 years, living with very Christian values of love, tolerance and a strong belief in God.” A one-time member of the national board of directors for the Human Rights Campaign, Brewster even said that the debate over his appointment had a hidden benefit, since “it forced the DR to confront homophobia. And today, we see light at the end of the tunnel, and hope down the road.” In Spain, James Costos, a former HBO executive, admitted he did not have to deal with the issues facing Brewster. “ I was appointed to serve in a country which is very supportive of gay rights but even with that, there is still discrimination in the workplace and bullying in schools. So there is work to do even there. What we can do is give us hope that things will continue to get better.” The sentiment echoed by all the ambassadors emulated the very vision of Harvey Milk, and the importance of coming out. “What we can do as ambassadors is give people a voice,” said Costos, “and foster equality by our very presence.” South Florida was represented at the event by a number of people, including Hot Spots Media Group President, Peter Clark and Fort Lauderdale city commissioner Dean Trantalis.

column guest

Gay Man in a Straight Sex Ed Class What I Didn’t Learn: Ignoring the Needs of Gay men

Christopher Katis BeforePlay.org Contributor There used to be this independent book store in Salt Lake that all the hip college students, granola hippies, pot heads and other “alternative” types would frequent. In high school my buddies and I were pretty regular customers. Back then, I thought my friends believed I had an intense interest in Indians. As soon as we walked through the Cosmic Aeroplane’s doors, I’d make a beeline for the Native American Studies section. But we all knew I was there for a different reason. Right across from the shelves housing books like “Bury My Heart at Wounded Knee” and “The Sacred” sat titles such as “Loving Someone Gay,” “The Joy of Gay Sex,” and “Lesbian Nation.” I really didn’t know where else to turn. When I was in high school, our sex ed component in health class literally consisted of labeling the various names of the genitalia on a hand-drawn mimeograph. There was this rough draft of a penis and one of a vagina, with lines jetting out from different parts labeling what they were. Here’s the glans! Over there’s the vulva! Come test day, we filled in the blank lines. That was the extent of my sexual education. Well almost. As we wrapped up, our teacher – a lovely young woman maybe 10 years older than us – added this tidbit. She told us that hymens are quite easily broken. They could bust while doing mundane activities like horseback riding or strenuous aerobics. Now besides teaching health, this particular woman was also the jazz dance coach. Her statement led every guy in the room to visualize hers exploding while doing a high kick. If that wasn’t weird enough, she gave us some advice: she told the boys, on our wedding night, if we looked “down there” and the person we married didn’t have a hymen, it didn’t mean they weren’t a virgin. Most of the guys laughed, I puked in my mouth a little. A lack of comprehensive sex ed in general can be dangerous. Ignoring the needs of gay men in particular can be downright deadly. I think part of that stems from the very bizarre notion that somehow learning about gay sex will make someone gay. I also think there’s a certain degree of what I like to call the “ick” factor. Two guys getting it on is “gross” to people. Yeah, well, the thought of what straight people do isn’t any less nasty to gay men! The issue with not having a real sex ed curriculum available is that it ignores a fundamental truth: society’s views about sexuality have never reflected biological reality. Preaching abstinence is great but not necessarily realistic. I mean my parents talked of abstinence

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but not one of their sons was a virgin on our wedding nights – not their 4 straight sons, nor me. Look, males are programmed to have sex. For the straight male the stumbling block to 24/7 intercourse is that females aren’t wired the same way. But, when you have two dudes, both of whom are thinking about getting laid every 7 seconds, it’s a sexual triumph! Add websites like Craigslist and Manhunt, and it’s every flavor of gay sex that you can imagine, right at your fingertips. But this convenience also means we don’t always think before we leap. And there’s a lot of nasty bugs going around. When I was coming out, AIDS was rampant. Thanks to a concerted effort to use condoms, the tide turned. But younger dudes didn’t live through the pandemic, they didn’t bear witness to once vibrant, strong men finally succumbing to some rare funky fungus after slowly withering away. Today, HIV is deemed manageable, and thank God it’s not the death sentence it used to be. But this also means the use of condoms doesn’t seem to be as prevalent as it once was. Just take a glance at Craigslist to see how many guys are willing to go bareback. There are also a myriad of new forms of antibiotic-resistant STDs to contend with. So we have to take matters into our own hands, which is always a fun alternative, and educate ourselves. Here are some important steps you can take.

To see inventory

Decades Jerry Chafﬁ

• First, get tested. Knowledge is power. If you’ve picked something up from someone you picked up, get treated. • Secondly, talk openly and honestly with every single sex partner. Yeah, in the heat of the moment, “the talk” can be a buzz kill, but your life is worth it. • Thirdly, educate yourself, and assess your risk level. Call a gay health line, they’re anonymous and there to help. • Fourthly, always use a condom. • Finally, forgive yourself if you mess up…and get tested. I wish schools and others taught these matters as we grow up, but they don’t. So it’s up to you to protect yourself while you celebrate your sexuality. Honestly, I shouldn’t be too hard on my health teacher. I mean after all, on my wedding night, when I looked down there, I didn’t see a hymen. But thanks to her, I knew it didn’t mean he wasn’t a virgin!

Christopher Katis is principal of Alethia Consulting a perception management consultancy based in Salt Lake City. He is also the award-winning columnist of Who’s Your Daddy featured in QSaltLake. Email Christopher at chris@alethiaconsulting.com. soflagaynews //

SouthFloridaGayNews // SFGN.com // 4 .1.2015 //

column publisher’s editorial

No Patience For Pence Norm Kent

norm.kent@sfgn.com

Last week Mike Pence, the Governor of Indiana signed into law the Religious Freedom Restoration Act, a shameful, disgraceful piece of legislation that sets its state back a century in time. This is America’s version of the Defense of Marriage Act for the year 2015. It is a regurgitation of a repudiated consciousness that fails to understand the separation of church and state is the fundamental principle upon which the melting pot of America is built. We come together as a society not to restrict the rights of any, but rather to secure the rights of all. We build a country based on inclusion and reaching out to each other, not by turning one group against another. Governor Pence made a fool of himself by signing the bill, and hard as it may seem, made himself look worse when he tried to defend himself against ABC’s George Stephanopoulos hard interrogation last Sunday on a talk show. Pence refused to state the law could or would unjustly discriminate against not only the LGBT community, but also anyone that someone believed to be gay. That’s right — that is what the law does. If a bakery owner says he does not want to serve two men walking in to a shop together because he perceives them to be lovers instead of brothers, his refusal would be constitutionally defensible in the Hoosier state. That’s no state for an American to be in. The Constitution of the U.S. provides absolute protection for freedom of religion, and there is no state law that can make those protections stronger. There are state laws, like this one, that can take the fulcrum and throw it off balance. This is a law for Fox news watchers who are being falsely told every day that their faith and religion is under attack by the federal government. It is a lie they buy into. Let’s not play word games. The law creates a license to discriminate. The law is not about protecting beliefs. It countenances bigotry. It is constitutionally vague and just too impermissibly broad to fairly enforce. Educated jurists will throw it out, and it looks like many will get the chance. If you want to turn your stomach, it appears at least a dozen state legislatures have similar laws pending. The measure, which takes effect in July, prohibits state laws that "substantially burden" a person's ability to follow his or her religious beliefs. The definition of "person" includes religious institutions, for profit businesses and associations. This new and offensive law creates a power allowing a person or business to claim a religious basis to discriminate, including on the basis of sexual orientation and gender identity. It’s unconscionable. Riddle me this. When was the last time church-going friends of yours came up to you and said he could not pray freely or practice his religion without restriction? Now tell me this. When was the last time you heard the story of a gay teenager bullied? The new legislation has horrified local chambers of commerce in the state. They correctly perceive that it will

// 4.1.2015 // SFGN.com //

adverse Indiana’s economy and compromise them politically. It most certainly will, and the governor knows it. That is why he told CNN yesterday that he wanted to introduce remedial legislation to ‘fix’ the law. Please. There is no fix for this. You nullify it, revoke it, kill it, and bury it, like Arizona did last year. The protest growing out of the law has justifiably gone viral. Companies from Apple to pharmaceutical giant Eli Lilly took to social media to express reservations about the law. Angie’s List, a business rating website, publicly announced they were pulling their plans for expansion. Marc Benioff, the chief executive of Salesforce.com, a technology company with a major presence in Indiana, announced that he would cancel all company events in the state. West Palm Beach Mayor Jeri Muoio yesterday announced she has banned city-funded trips to Indiana in response to the new law, calling it "legally sanctioned discrimination." In an interview with SFGN yesterday, the actor, Alan Cumming, who will be appearing at Parker Playhouse in Fort Lauderdale next week, stated that he thought the law was “horrendous.” Freedom of religion is sacred under the U.S. constitution, and has never been legislatively compromised. It is guarded jealously by federal and state constitutional guarantees, but freedom to indiscriminately discriminate is not. This law is a renaissance day for people who enjoyed ‘colored’ water fountains. It is racism against gays, legislatively protected by governors who are the reincarnation of George Corley Wallace, standing on the capitol steps and saying ‘Segregation now, segregation forever.’ It is saying YOU- and other gay people, and other people who are perceived to be gay- may not be served. There is no room at the inn. If you are not outraged, you should be. This is right wing retaliation against gay marriage equality and equal rights for the LGBT community. They say they are just trying to protect

soflagaynews //

SouthFloridaGayNews

‘their’ rights. No, they are trying to deny you yours. Be angry. This law is not about whether some bakery in Elkhorn, Indiana, or Glendale, Arizona, has the right to refuse to bake a gay wedding cake. It is about whether a gay customer walking into a bakery has the same right to buy the same cake that a Christian couple does. You can’t allow an owner to say he won’t serve someone wearing a Jewish star or rainbow ring. Life can’t work that way today, not that it ever should have in the past. The business bakes goods with electricity the city supplies and everyone’s taxes pay for. It is on a public street using public utilities that we all contribute to. It is using water we all share and together communally underwrite with homeowner and business taxes. We must honor and recognize diversity, not impose limits on its soul. A business operating in the community marketplace cannot independently decide whom it will and won’t serve based on some vague concept that the service might infringe on their beliefs. No one is doing so. Everyone is free to pray where they want and how they want and to whom they want. We are also equally free not to pray. If a local hardware store wants you to sign an affidavit that you believe in God before you buy a gallon of paint, will it be legal? What if the storeowner says he does not want to sell paint to a gay couple to use on their home? Will he have that right? He certainly will now have a legal argument in court. The governor gave him that, but the 21st century won’t stand for it. The Religious Freedom Restoration Act is not only fundamentally unconstitutional, it is frankly unfair, offensive not only to the gays and lesbians it targets, but the society we aspire to live in. A governor who signs it, a community that supports it, is our enemy. Our duty is to stand up and be heard.

news local

‘Diversity Honors’ Dinner Will Beneﬁt Pride Center, Milk Foundation May 9 Gala will feature Judy Shepard

ON STANDS NOW!

Norm Kent

Check out

The Mirror

Winter 2015

WINTER 2015 • Vol. 3

Issue 4

Winter Arts Guide Editi GUIdE bEGINS ON PAGE 21

‘FIRST COMES LOVE’ PHOTO FEATURE SEX POSITIVE CULTURE CHALLENGES ETHICS

HUNGARY FACES A HISTORIC STRUGGLE

themirrormag.com

GUIdE bEGINS ON PAGE 21 Photo: pridecenterﬂorida.org

Winter Arts Guid ‘Diversity Honors’ is the theme for an evening that is likely to become one of the most successful fundraisers for both the Pride Center at Equality Park and the Harvey Milk Foundation. If you are interested, get your tickets soon. The event is little more than a month away, in the ballroom of the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel. A meeting of table captains was hosted last Thursday at the W Hotel by Peter Clark, president of the Hotspots Media Group, who will serve on the host committee, along with some other distinguished persons, including Rand Hoch of the Palm Beach County Human Rights Council. Michael Goodman, the well-known publicist, who is also on the host committee, has volunteered to do all the public relations for the evening’s gala. It will feature and honor Judy Shepard, the president of the Matthew Shepard Foundation. Already announced as honorary hosts for the event are Congresspersons Debbie Wasserman Schultz and Ileana Ros-Lehtinen. Expect other prominent politicians to line up to support the Harvey Milk Foundation, which has gained international acclaim and stature under the aegis of Milk’s nephew, Wilton Manors resident Stuart Milk. Sponsorship opportunities are plentiful, but need to be acted on quickly. While a

corporate table for ten may be acquired for as little as $2,500, the group’s aspirations are much higher. They are hoping for major and regional presenting sponsors to come in at the $75,000 and $50,000 level. Stated Robert Boo, the Executive Director of the Pride Center at Equality Park, “Stuart Milk and his foundation have been truly inspirational. He has spoken out for LGBT rights in more than 40 states and over 20 countries on 6 continents.” It’s the hope of both Stuart Milk and Boo that the joint effort will be the nascent days of a dream which will one day bring a Harvey Milk Conference Center onto the campus of the Pride Center. The South Florida event, labeled ‘Diversity Honors,’ is an extension of the Milk Foundation’s ‘Diversity Breakfasts,’ successful events now held annually in San Diego and Orlando. While they started small, they have grown into regional gatherings of diverse political and geographical LGBT groups, crossing over politics and personalities. “Sponsorship opportunities provide a unique chance for companies to engage and connect with LGBTQ leaders and allies in an inspiring atmosphere,” remarked Event committee co-chair Miriam Richter, a Wilton Manors attorney who provides pro bono legal services for the Milk Foundation.

CMY

For more information, call the Pride Center at Equality Park at 954-463-9005. soflagaynews //

SouthFloridaGayNews // SFGN.com // 4 .1.2015 //

column chamber chat

Stop By Miami’s LGBT Visitor Center Lori Lynch

Executive Director of the LGBT Visitor Center

The LGBT Visitor Center in Miami Beach, at 1130 Washington Avenue opens its door with Pride to thousands of tourists from around the globe each year and now we are also much, much more! It’s our vibrant local community that makes Miami Beach one of the top LGBT destinations in the world! Our community deserves a “home base” where everyone can feel safe and welcomed. As Executive Director, I knew I wanted this to be my mission. The LGBT Visitor Center is the perfect site for a multitude of local programming. We’ve added weekly support groups including Narcotics Anonymous and Smart Recovery, Yoga and Dance classes, Educational Workshops and an array of Social Events to the calendar. The scheduled workshops include topics such as Gay Women’s Health, Financial Planning, LGBT Family Building, Gay Guide to Legal Marriage and Transgender – “The Life of the Third Gender.”

Each facilitator is an impressive professional in their field of expertise. Make sure to Save the Dates! April 23: The LGBT Visitor Center invites you to a social mixer at the fabulous Epic Hotel. Experience the open-air oasis on the sixteenthfloor pool terrace. DJ Citizen Jane will be spinning her magic as you sip cocktails and drink in the glorious views. Nibble on sumptuous passed hors d’oeuvres as you mingle with your friends and meet new ones! Don’t miss the 3rd Annual Pink Flamingo Awards, September 24 at the Miami Beach

Convention Center. Join us for what is sure to be another entertainment extravaganza as we honor people, places and organizations that have demonstrated an extraordinary level of excellence throughout the year.

For a complete listing of events, please visit our website www.gogaymiami.com, or email lori@gogaymiami.com.

// 4.1.2015 // SFGN.com //

soflagaynews //

SouthFloridaGayNews

column transforming gender

My Experience At This Year’s Convening Rebecca Juro

rjuroshow@gmail.com

Every year in the waning weeks of winter, LGBT journalists and media makers come together for a weekend. Sponsored by the Evelyn and Walter Haas Jr. Fund, hosted by NLGJA, and organized by Bilerico Project Publisher Bil Browning, the annual LGBT Media Journalists Convening features speakers, panels, and topic-driven discussions focusing on issues and stories of key concern and interest to the LGBT community in general, and to LGBT people working in media in particular. It’s always a great weekend with presentations, attendees can learn a lot from, but that’s not the only reason why this annual invitation-only event is such a hot ticket. For a few days, those of us working in this business get to connect with each other and share stories and information, learn from each other, reconnect with friends and colleagues, and interact with each other in a friendly and personal group setting which cell phones and the Internet simply can’t match. As not only an LGBT journalist but also a trans journalist who most often writes on topics and issues of direct concern to trans people, for me this event distinguishes itself from others of its kind in another way as well. Trans journalists and media makers are well represented and that’s by design, but it’s more than just that. Nowadays we are welcome to attend, and participate in, many events of this type. But this event is unique in my experience because trans people and issues, aren’t just included, we’re prioritized. We’re included in the planning as members of the host committee. There’s always at least one session that takes on an important trans-relevant issue directly. We’re not only welcome at the Convening, we’re an essential and core part of what this event is all about. This matters and it matters a lot. When I first started doing this work, I made a few attempts at joining similar professional groups. What I quickly discovered was that trans-identified journalists weren’t taken seriously. These groups often used the “LGBT” acronym for inclusivity cred but the people in charge rarely,

Photo: Facebook.

if ever, looked beyond the first two letters in the acronym. These organizations and events were organized mainly by cis gays and lesbians for cis gays and lesbians. And while we were often allowed to be present and even participate it was usually as little more than uninvolved observers of groups and events which were run by and intended for gays and lesbians exclusively. We were allowed in the room, but always with the clear understanding that it wasn’t about us or about the issues that mattered to our own audiences because it wasn’t intended to be. Recently, trans people and issues have become more and more a focus of the media spotlight, but we still have a long way to go before we can say that we’re getting the kind of attention we deserve in mainstream media. LGBT media outlets, on the other hand, have been leading the way in putting our issues front and center. I believe that a big reason why that’s the case is because the gay and lesbian editors and publishers who run these outlets are not only better informed on our issues than they used to be, but also because they’ve come to know and respect the work of trans journalists. They know that we represent and cover the issues, which are most important to one of the fastest growing segments of the LGBT community. Not only is it good policy from a social and political perspective, it’s good business as well. Thanks in large part to events like the Convening, LGBT media is now setting a higher standard for trans inclusion than it ever has before and the positive results are increasingly evident for all to see. Journalists of all stripes are finally coming to understand that “LGBT” has four letters in it, not two, and each of those letters matters. Events like the Convening help us set that bar higher and open doors, which were once closed to us, and those are the most important benefits of all. To read more about this year’s Convening see page 14.

Rebecca Juro is a nationally-published freelance journalist and radio talk show host who is the Media Correspondent for The Advocate website. Her work has appeared in the Huffington Post, the Washington Blade, Gay City News, the Albany Times Union, and The Advocate magazine, among others. Rebecca lives in central New Jersey and shares her life with a somewhat antisocial cat. Email: rjuroshow@gmail.com Twitter: @beckyjuro soflagaynews //

SouthFloridaGayNews // SFGN.com // 4 .1.2015 //

column guest

10 Remaining States Provide Tax Filing Guidance to Same-Sex Married Taxpayers Joseph Henchman TaxFoundation.org

After the IRS decision to allow gay and lesbian married couples to file joint federal tax returns, we noted that a number of states would have to provide guidance because they require two contradictory things: file a joint federal return, you must file a 1.Ifjointyoustate return and; Same-sex married couples cannot file jointly. 2. Nearly all states that have a state income tax reference the federal tax code at some point to minimize taxpayers’ calculation, record keeping, and compliance burdens. Thirty states and the District of Columbia start with federal adjusted gross income, six states start with federal taxable income, and only five states do not reference the federal tax code at all. In the 2014 filing season, we successfully communicated with officials in the 22 states where this was an issue, urging them to provide clarifying guidance to same-sex couple taxpayers. We also urged states not to “decouple” from the federal tax system as a measure of defiance, as doing so would impose huge compliance costs on nearly all state taxpayers and would be disproportionate since other viable options are available. These other options, which all the states adopted, include allowing joint filing, providing a worksheet to allocate income and deductions from the joint federal return to two single state returns, instructing taxpayers to prepare “pro forma” or dummy single federal tax returns to use for state filing, or instructing taxpayers to divide their deductions in half or by their income ratio. This year, because many more states recognize samesex marriage, the number of states that present this dilemma to taxpayers has dwindled to 10 states. (The legality of same-sex marriage in Alabama, Kansas, and Missouri is currently legally complicated, so we include these three states in our list.) Consequently, revenue officials in these states have a responsibility to provide guidance of some kind to taxpayers. Here is the current guidance provided to taxpayers in those ten states:

// 4.1.2015 // SFGN.com //

Alabama: This is the tricky one. A federal court legalized same-sex marriage and licenses were issued for a time, but the state supreme court has issued a conflicting order, causing uncertainty. Last year, Alabama taxpayers were instructed to apportion federal tax onto two single returns, using the ratio of each taxpayer’s federal AGI to the couple’s federal AGI. However, that guidance has been removed from the Alabama Department of Revenue website. There is no guidance in the individual income tax instruction booklet nor on the Department’s website. We reached out to the Department of Revenue, who explained that the guidance from last year is still valid, and that they “took it down because it was generating more questions than it was answering.” Georgia: Same-sex taxpayers must complete pro forma federal single returns and use that information for the state returns. Kansas: While Kansas jurisdictions are issuing marriage licenses, the state government does not recognize same-sex marriage. Same-sex taxpayers must allocate income to two single returns using a stateprovided worksheet (Kansas Allocation of Income Worksheet). Kentucky: Same-sex taxpayers must complete pro forma federal single returns and use that information for the state returns. Louisiana: Same-sex taxpayers must complete pro forma federal single returns and use that information for the state returns. Michigan: Same-sex taxpayers must complete pro forma federal single returns and use that information for the state returns. Missouri: Same-sex couples may file jointly. Nebraska: Same-sex taxpayers must complete pro forma federal single returns and use that information for the state returns.

soflagaynews //

SouthFloridaGayNews

North Dakota: Same-sex taxpayers must allocate income to two single returns using a state-provided schedule (ND-1S). Ohio: Same-sex taxpayers must allocate income to two single returns using a state-provided schedule (Schedule IT S). Additionally, five other states do not recognize samesex marriage but either have no income tax (South Dakota and Texas) or do not require taxpayers to follow federal rules when filing (Arkansas, Mississippi, Tennessee). In the remaining 35 states and the District of Columbia, the state currently recognizes same-sex marriage and couples are able to file joint state tax returns (if the state has an income tax, that is). The states where same-sex marriage is currently legal are Alaska, Arizona, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Florida, Hawaii, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Minnesota, Montana, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, North Carolina, Oklahoma, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Carolina, Utah, Vermont, Virginia, Washington, West Virginia, Wisconsin, Wyoming, and the District of Columbia. While tax administration is not at the forefront of those advocating for or against same-sex marriage, it is of crucial importance to taxpayers who need to file their taxes in a way that conforms to state law. In these ten states where state law directs taxpayers to do two contradictory things, it is incumbent on tax and revenue officials to provide guidance on resolving that contradiction. We acknowledge this may put tax administrators in awkward positions with respect to their state’s public policy, but the options outlined here address compliance issues without violating state statutory or constitutional provisions on same-sex marriage. We further acknowledge the hard work of tax administrators in every state in providing exactly that guidance to their taxpayers. The Tax Foundation is a non-partisan research think tank, based in Washington, DC.

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SouthFloridaGayNews // SFGN.com // 4 .1.2015 //

A day you canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t miss....

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Experience Holy Week & Easter

Yo Come As u Are - One Loved By God

Multicultural Maundy Thursday Eucharist with Foot-Washing Thursday, April 2nd, 7:30 p.m.

Good Friday Multilingual Public Procession of the Cross Friday, April 3rd, 3:00 p.m.

Good Friday English Liturgy with Communion Friday, April 3rd, 6:00 p.m.

Good Friday Spanish Liturgy with Communion

Spanish Easter Vigil Eucharist Saturday, April 4th, 7:30 p.m.

The Great Vigil of Easter English Eucharist Sunday, April 5th, 6:00 a.m.

Service will be followed by a Champagne Toast in the Parish Hall

Festive Choral English Eucharist

Sunday, April 5th, 10:30 a.m.

Spanish Easter Eucharist

Sunday, April 5th, 12:30 p.m.

Brazilian Portuguese Easter Eucharist

Friday, April 3rd, 7:30 p.m.

Sunday April 5th, 7:00 p.m.

Conveniently Located One Mile East of I-95 St. Nicholas Episcopal Church 1111 E. Sample Road Pompano Beach, FL 33064 (954) 942-5887 www.stnicholasfl.org

// 4.1.2015 // SFGN.com //

soflagaynews //

SouthFloridaGayNews

Gazette Wilton Manors

Volume 2 • Issue 7 April 1, 2015

Twice-Monthly Neighborhood Outlook

Page 2 Springtime Events

Page 4 Police Car Investment

Page 5 Information Mishap

Page 6 Water Costs

Page 8 Calendar

The Price To Pay When Living in Wilton Manors The Real Estate Geek begins an investigation into costs Page 3

Mickel Field Receives Loan Page 7

• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • www.WMGAZETTE.com • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • 1 •soflagaynews April 1, 2015//

SouthFloridaGayNews // SFGN.com // 4 .1.2015 //

Opinion

Gazette Springtime In Wilton Manors

Wilton Manors

By Sal Torre

APRIL 1, 2015 • VOLUME 2 • ISSUE 7

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

PUBLISHER • NORM KENT NORM.KENT@SFGN.COM CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER • PIER ANGELO GUIDUGLI ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER / EXECUTIVE EDITOR • JASON PARSLEY JASON.PARSLEY@SFGN.COM

Editorial

ART DIRECTOR • BRENDON LIES ARTWORK@SFGN.COM ONLINE PRODUCER • DENNIS JOZEFOWICZ DENNIS.JOZEFOWICZ@SFGN.COM EDITORIAL ASSISTANT • JILLIAN MELERO JILLIANMELERO@GMAIL.COM

Correspondents

MICHAEL D’OLIVEIRA • CHRISTIANA LILLY • DENISE ROYAL • NATALYA JONES • JOHN MCDONALD • JAMES OAKSUN • DAVID REPLOGLE

So much is happening this spring. Wilton Manors will soon join such cities as Atlanta, Charlotte, and Salt Lake City that will get a taste of Google’s all-fiber network for high-speed internet and TV services. This service starts with a connection that is up to 1,000 megabits per second, with instant downloads, TV like no other, and endless possibilities. Residents who have had to endure the constant interruptions of Comcast, the lack of availability of U-verse in areas of our city, and just a poor selection of fast, reliable internet services are thrilled to hear of Google’s recent announcement. Our Mayor, who serves on the Federal Communication Commission, and fellow City Commissioners all expressed their enthusiasm on Wilton Manors being selected by Google as the first city in South Florida to gain such a wonderful service and tech advantage. Our city will also enjoy a new municipal parking garage at Hagen Park, designed by leading architect Zaha Hadid. Mayor Resnick stated that the city is pleased to work with Ms. Hadid and delighted with her contemporary and brilliant design. The main city lot, which is the existing ground parking lot at Hagen, will remain open during the construction of the new parking garage so there will be no disruption and loss of parking for our vital business community along Wilton Drive and the Arts and Entertainment District. Once completed on the corner of Wilton Drive and NE 21st Court, this state-of-the art parking facility will free up the existing ground parking lot for open space and park expansion, without the need to purchase additional properties on the opposite end of the park. AND, in another bold move, our City Commission has requested that our Police Department initiate residency requirements for all new officers. This decision is part of an

overall Community Policing Model that the Commission has embraced and is now requesting that our Chief of Police implement. One key element of the Community Policing Model involves integrating the police into the community culture, working together to control and prevent crime. City leaders believe that requiring officers to actually live, work, and play here in Wilton Manors will be the best way to bring about a Police Department that is part of our community, working together with fellow residents to make our city the safest and best place to live in Broward County. According to one city official, this action will also save taxpayers an enormous amount of money since take-home police vehicles will not travel outside the city limits, thus cutting way down on mileage, maintenance, and gas expenses. Sounds too good to be true? April Fools! My apologies, I could not resist the temptation of April Fool’s Day, BUT … We can dream and hope for some of the above to come true in the near future, or we can work toward making our dreams a reality. Seeds of such dreams can be planted now by your involvement in the community, serving on a city board, contacting elected officials, and by letting your voice be heard. The upcoming Goals and Objectives Workshop on April 7 is the beginning of the budget process for our city government and the perfect time to get a pulse on what city department heads and officials are looking to include in the FY 2015/2016 budget that will eventually be adopted in September. The Public Comments segment at such meetings is the perfect time for you to express what your goals and objectives are for our city. WMG

Staff Photographers

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Associated Press

The Goals and Objectives Workshop begins at 6:30 pm on April 7. Meetings are held in the Commission Chambers at City Hall, and all are welcome to attend. Parking is free during all city meetings.

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Can I Afford This Place In The Sun?

Real Estate Geek

By James Oaksun

How affordable is it to buy a house or condo here in South Florida? The answer to this question is, I think, more complicated than it appears. The market here, at least in some neighborhoods, operates on different standards than one might expect. For example, many buyers here are coming “from away,” as we used to say in Maine. Not to say they are totally price insensitive, but they are often coming as cash buyers or with large down payments from places where real estate is more expensive than it is here. Or they are coming from outside the U.S. and have additional motivating factors beyond price. Because my focus is on value, I always counsel my buyers to shop carefully. (Still, when people know what they want and are price insensitive, they can be helped too, and gladly.) To a degree, this will put upward pressure on prices in a way that other parts of the country may not fully experience. So where does that leave us “natives,” living here, working? Is home ownership out of our reach? The short answer is of course “no.” The traditional measure of affordability is to look at the median sale price in an area, and compare that with the median household income, and then ask whether that median income could support the financing for the median house. Now, in Broward County, the median household income where the adult householders are between 25 and 64, is about $57,000. (Two income households would be higher; one income median would be lower.) (This per the U.S. Census.) I would argue that another measure might be better, given the number of outside buyers. Perhaps it would be better to consider whether the median income could afford to buy in a neighborhood at an entry level, perhaps at the 25th as opposed to the 50th percentile. The first thing we need to do, is look at prices in various neighborhoods at the 25th percentile. (Hmm, ask that question of just about any Realtor and see the response. LOL.) Fortunately I have performed those

calculations for my fellow Realtors' convenience. So they don't have to. The table included here is a sampling of neighborhoods/property types where the actual sales prices at the 25th percentile might surprise you. But can you afford it? As a very rough rule of thumb, when you add in real estate taxes, insurances, and condo/HOA dues, generally you can start by figuring you could probably support a mortgage of up to roughly 2.5 times your qualifying annual income. (No this is not a prequalification from the International Bank of James, which does not exist. Only a mortgage professional can give the absolute answer and it depends on a variety of factors.) Add to this a down payment and that's a very ballparky idea. Think of it as “horseshoes and hand grenades,” not “commitment to lend.” So what does it all mean? Yes, it is possible for a two-income household, or a single person with a pretty strong income, to afford a place of their own in Broward County, just not always in the cities and neighborhoods that first come to mind. No, I don't think everyone has a divine right to live in Wilton Manors. But as a Realtor I do believe that property ownership generally makes for a more stable and prosperous society. As I see it there are two options. First, investigate nearby areas that are more affordable and might be poised for price appreciation above the market average. Second, buy properties that need updating and invest your “sweat equity” in making certain improvements that will increase the property value by more than the cost of the improvements. I will explore both of these options in more detail in coming columns. WMG James Oaksun, Broward's Real Estate GeekSM, is a Realtor with the Wilton Manors office of RE/ MAX Preferred. In addition to having degrees from Dartmouth and Cornell, he is a graduate of the Realtors Institute (GRI).

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Community

Commission Debates “Buy American” Mayor says commission shouldn’t “car shop” for police department By Michael d’Oliveira

A police request to purchase eight new vehicles took a patriotic turn at the March 24 commission meeting when Commissioner Julie Carson asked why two were made by foreign companies. The eight vehicle order, ultimately approved by commissioners, is comprised of three Ford Interceptor sedans, two Ford Interceptor SUVs, one Chevrolet Impala, one Nissan Altima and one Toyota Camry hybrid. Eight aging vehicles will be replaced and sold at auction at a later date. Russell Hanstein, administrative manager for the police department, the current vehicles cost more to maintain. “Why two non-American cars?” she asked. Chief Paul O’Connel said the vehicles were chosen because they best fit the needs of his department. The SUVs, he added, will give the police a bigger presence when in use. “It’s a Japanese car made in America,” Mayor Gary Resnick said.

Inside of a current Broward County police Challenger.

“I understand that, mayor,” said Carson, who added that foreign car companies don’t pay as much in taxes as domestic manufacturers. Commissioner Tom Green also echoed Carson, saying that foreign plants are not unionized and wages are lower. According to the Bureau of Labor and Statistics, union jobs provide better wages than non-union jobs in all sectors of employment. According to Edmunds.com, a site dedicated to researching automobiles and the automotive industry, foreign carmakers don’t pay as much in federal and state taxes but their tax bill is roughly equal to their market share. The 2014 Kogod Made In America Index, compiled by the Kogod School of Business at American University, examines the production of automobiles by foreign and domestic manufacturers. Kogod takes a look at where the company is headquartered, where the vehicle is assembled, where the engine and transmission are produced, where the body, interior, chassis and other parts are produced and what the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s “Domestic Content” score is. The higher the index score, the greater the percentage of the vehicle was made in the U.S. The Nissan Altima, ranked 31st highest in domestic production out of 86 cars, got an index score of 64. The Toyota Camry Hybrid ranked 53 overall and had an index score of 37.5. The Chevrolet Impala was ranked the fourth overall with an index score of 83. The Ford Interceptor sedans and SUVs were not included in the Kogod study. Mayor Gary Resnick questioned why commissioners were delving into a decision on what kind of vehicles to buy for the police. “I’m not going car shopping for the City of

Photo: Christopher Ziemnowicz

Wilton Manors. That sounds like what we’re doing here.” Resident Paul Kuta also accused the commission of “micromanaging” the police department. “It was ridiculous. I thought [the police] were bending over backwards to have a variety of vehicles. They’ve put some thought into that.” Carson said she was just trying to make sure everyone was “on the same page.” City officials set a budget for the vehicles at $295,150. The final cost, including money set aside to alter the vehicles to the needs of the police, was under budget at $243,000. Five of the vehicles will be marked and three will be unmarked, allowing them to be used for undercover work and administrative functions. WMG

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City Produced Sponsorship Packet Highlights Police Chief’s Racist Emails City Commissioner calls embarrassing snafu an “honest mistake” By Michael d’Oliveira

A promotional packet for this year’s Stonewall Festival highlighted two recent racial incidents within Wilton Manors and incorrectly stated that property values were on the decline. The packet’s creator, Stonewall Entertainment Committee Manager Corrie Boyd, also copied, without permission, large portions of the sponsorship packet produced by Pride South Florida, last year’s event organizers. Included were Pride South Florida’s name and phone number. The packet which was distributed to banks and other local businesses before it was recalled, points to two negative

episodes: racist emails distributed by former police chief Richard Perez in 2010 and former city commissioner Ted Galatis’ use of the n-word during an incident with three African Americans in 2014 in front of his home. Perez apologized and was suspended for the emails but was later fired after it was discovered he took payment for hours he did not work. Galatis apologized and said he only used the n-word because he felt threatened. The pamphlet also stated city “real estate values have followed the national downward trend” and that the city’s attempt at economic revitalization has

Community

Corrie Boyd

only met with “partial success.” Last year, city property values jumped 10.1 percent, the second highest in the county. Property values also rose the year before. Jeff Sterling, executive manager of the Entertainment Committee, said Boyd acted alone and was not authorized to print or distribute the packet. A new packet has since been drafted and distributed. City officials also said they were unaware Boyd had created or distributed the packet. Mayor Gary Resnick praised Boyd as someone who has done a good job helping to organize Stonewall in the past. “I’ll talk to him,” Resnick said. Norm Kent, co-chair of Pride South Florida, recently renamed Pride Fort Lauderdale, and publisher of SFGN and The Gazette, criticized the commission and City Manager Joseph Gallegos as “inept and careless” for appointing Boyd to the Stonewall Entertainment Committee. Pride Fort Lauderdale expressed an interest in running the event again but the commission decided the city would do it this year. “This is a typically reckless and irresponsible action by Corrie Boyd. Which explains why Pride South Florida wanted nothing to do with him,” Kent said. He praised Sterling for immediately moving to remove the packets from the community. Commissioner Julie Carson, who called the packet inappropriate,

said the entire commission and city manager shouldn’t be judged for one incident. “People make mistakes. And from what I understand, it's an honest mistake,” Vice Mayor Scott Newton said. City Manager Joseph Gallegos said there would be “bumps” the first time the city’s committee organized the event. “But I’m sure it’s going to be a wonderful event.” According to an SFGN article published last year, Boyd resigned from the Pride South Florida board in July of 2014. “John Fugate, a fellow board member and former employee of South Florida Gay News, alleged that Boyd ‘broke the agency’s bylaws when he signed contracts for the musical acts at the event that only the board president could sign,’” wrote SFGN reporter Christiana Lilly. Boyd resigned after the board meeting during which the accusations were made. He claimed Fugate never brought up the issue before then. “It’s in my budget,” Boyd told SFGN at the time. “Every time I tried to get in touch with the people that claimed that they should have signed it . . . they’re not available.” An email and phone message left with Boyd was not returned in time for publication. At their March 24 meeting, commissioners voted to reduce the number of festival days from two days to one. WMG

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Business

City Water Rates Down For Some, Up For Others

By Michael d’Oliveira

ADVERTISE IN THE

GAZETTE AS LITTLE AS $75

EACH ISSUE!

Starting April 1, Wilton Manors residents with 1 inch water meters will save $38.98 in water and sewer base charges per month. Residents with 5/8 inch meters will pay an additional $2.48 per month in base charges. Commissioners unanimously approved the billing adjustment on March 24. They said they made the change in the rate in response to resident complaints. “I always like when I can make good on a campaign promise,” Commissioner Justin Flippen said. Commissioner Julie Carson said she got nothing but positive feedback from residents when the commission announced last month its intentions to change the rate

Originally, 1 inch customers paid $84.10 in water base rates and $36.01 in sewer base rates. 5/8 inch meter customers paid $13.86 for sewer and $32.34 before the change. Other types of customers, including multifamily and commercial, will not see a change in the rate. The reason for the rate difference is the assumption that customers with smaller size meters will put less of a demand on the system; 5/8-inch meters can handle up to 15 gallons of water per minute and 1-inch meters can handle up to 25 gallons per minute. “I’ve always thought, it’s how much water you use, not how fast you get it,” Commissioner Tom Green said. WMG

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Business

Commission Approves Loan for Mickel Field By Michael d’Oliveira

ADVERTISE IN THE

GAZETTE AS LITTLE AS $75

As the saying goes, you’ve got to spend money to make money. And in their plan to redevelop Mickel Field as a driver of economic development along Powerline Road, Wilton Manors commissioners have voted to borrow $744,000 through a 10-year loan. In a 3-0 vote on March 10, commissioners approved the loan from STI Institutional & Government, Inc., a subsidiary of SunTrust Bank. According to Bob Mays, finance director, that was the only firm to respond to the bid request. Mayor Gary Resnick, whose law firm represents SunTrust, recused himself. Commissioner Tom Green was attending a National League of Cities meeting in Washington, D.C. and was absent. The city won’t spend the loan for about six to eight weeks but it will begin earning some interest while the loan is deposited. “We’re earning a little interest too,” Mays said. The interest cost of the loan will be about $93,000 for the first year and $88,000 every year after that until the term of the loan expires. The money is about half of the planned $1.5 million in improvements for the park, formerly known as Mickel Field. The other portion will come from a combination of general funds, impact fees and grants.

The improvements include a walking trail, estate-style fencing, pavilion, concert performance area, volleyball court, additional bathroom, fitness equipment stations and shade canopies. Officials also want to convert the concession stand into a police substation and community meeting space. The small baseball field will be removed to make room for the new amenities but the large one will remain. Security cameras will also be installed and will be funded through $83,000 in federal forfeiture funds. City Manager Joseph Gallegos said the camera feeds would be routed into the police station and information would also be stored there on a cloud storage system. If commissioners approve cameras for other city parks and facilities in the future, Operations Commander Gary Blocker said all the cameras would be integrated. When asked by Resnick who would monitor the cameras, Blocker cited security concerns and declined to answer during the public meeting. “We can talk about that offline, mayor,” Gallegos said. The redevelopment is expected to be completed in July. WMG

EACH ISSUE!

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Calendar of Events

Compiled from the Wilton Manors website

"Tip a (WMPD) Cop" at Courtyard Cafe to Beneﬁt Special Olympics April 3, 5:30 p.m. - 9:30 p.m. Shawn and Nick's Courtyard Café hosts Wilton Manors Police Officers as celebrity waiters to benefit the Special Olympics Florida in their "tip-a-cop" fundraising drive. Join our amazing Officers as they give new meaning to "protect and serve"!

Free Tax Assistance April 4, 11 10 a.m. - 12 p.m. at Richard C. Sullivan Public Library

Wilton Manors Green Market April 4, 5 & 11, 12 & 18, 19 & 25, 26 — 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Wilton Manors City Hall / Hagen Park

Wilton Manors Green Market every Saturday and Sunday from 9 a.m.– 2 p.m. in the Wilton Manors City Hall / Hagen Park parking lot. The Market features Organic Produce, Regular Produce, International Baked Goods, specialty items, spices & herbs, soups, cheeses, coffees & tea, bagels, Nuts & dried fruits, baked goods, and various other international and local vendors. The Market gives residents and visitors to Wilton Manors an exciting shopping alternative and a chance to view, sample and purchase products. For more information on The Market or to become a vendor, visit GreenWilton.com or contact Frank and Ron at 954-531-5363.

Free face-to-face tax help for those of low to moderate income from the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance and Tax Counseling for the Elderly programs.

Island City Foundation - Entertainment Committee Meeting April 4, 11, 18 2 p.m. - 4 p.m. at Sterling Tax and Accounting Services, Inc. The Island City Foundation Entertainment Committee will meet to discuss planning of the Stonewall Parade and Street Festival.

Westside Association of Wilton Manors (WAWM) Annual Meeting April 9, 7 p.m. - 8 p.m. at Hagen Park Community Center

Friends of the Library Book Tent Event April 11, 8 a.m. - 2 p.m. at Hagen Park At the Friends’ Book Tent Event, part of the monthly City Yard Sale, you’ll find used books, CDs, audio books, DVDs, and videos in exchange for a small donation. Top sellers range from books-on-tape to children’s DVDs, from cookbooks to gardening manuals. All donations benefit the Richard C. Sullivan Public Library of Wilton Manors. The Friends will also take your donations of books and audio and video materials.

Island City Yard Sale April 11, 8 a.m. - 2 p.m. at Hagen Park / City Hall The City of Wilton Manors sponsors seven City-Wide Yard Sales each year at Hagen Park, 2020 Wilton Drive, on the second Saturday of November 2014 – May 2015. For space reservations at Hagen Park and information, please call the Leisure Services Department at 954-390-2115 or 954-390-2130. Each yard sale is free to the public.

City Commission Meeting April 14, 7 p.m. at City Hall Commission Chambers 2020 Wilton Drive

Economic Development Task Force April 15, 5:30 p.m. at City Hall Commission Chambers 2020 Wilton Drive Wilton Manors, FL 33305

Central Area Neighborhood Association (CANA) Meeting April 15, 7 p.m. at Hagen Park Community Center

Wilton Manors Historical Society April 16, 7 p.m. at City Commission Chambers

Photo: J.R. Davis

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column

This week’s question:

What’s next for gay rights?

Name one issue the community will, or should, focus on after (presumably) the Supreme Court rules in our favor. SFGN Staff SFGN’s “Speak OUT” is a weekly feature giving a regular voice to South Florida LGBT leaders. Below are some of their answers:

“

Social Equality! My perspective: after observing the night scene and life style, South Florida is segregated...it's maddening to see the inequity, the dislike displayed within our community. Although, not a major issue because we tend to sweep it under and not speak; but, how can we rise when we're seeking fault in each other? Yes, social equality is the next focus area. Under the rainbow everyone is equal."

— Sonja Pressley, BLAST Assistant Organizer

“

Although marriage equality may come via the federal SCOTUS, it's still a patchwork quilt when it comes to actual anti-discrimination legislation. In many locations, we could marry on Saturday and get fired Monday, with no legal recourse. It'll be a tough, ongoing fight at state and local levels to secure full equal rights. We all need to investigate the laws that affect us - not assume we're safe."

— Toni Armstrong, Founder/ Director of BLAST Women of WPB

“

That answer seems very different than it might have been otherwise in the wake of the Indiana decision to legalize discrimination. The victories those fighting for LGBT equality have enjoyed in elections and judicial decisions have enflamed the crazed right wing to come at us using the errant Hobby Lobby religious discrimination as a weapon. It’s a completely ridiculous and unfounded argument and we need to work through the courts and legislators to stop it from expanding. Indiana (and Arkansas, if it gets signed into law) will probably step back these laws because of the enormous financial blow that will be dealt them. But laws need to be in place from having it ever happen again." — David Jobin, executive director of The Stonewall National Museum & Archives

“

I believe one of the foremost issues our community needs to address is the reality of homelessness among LGBT young people - even here, even in 2015. It is a complex reality that has no easy answers, but we must take care of the most vulnerable in our own community. It is too easy as we get older to forget how terrifying it can be to be a teenager, let alone LGBT and homeless." — Lea Brown, Senior Pastor, MCC of the Palm Beaches

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.

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SouthFloridaGayNews

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column opinion

If You Could Read My Mind: A PTSD Diary, #6 David-Elijah Nahmod

Photo Credit: Pixabay

Open your hearts for Michael and Lee

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One of the things I hope to achieve with this column is to help others. So many LGBT people have noted the frustrating lack of support from the community and from the organizations which claim to represent us. Scores of gay bloggers routinely post inflammatory, hurtful rants directed at other LGBT people. Where then can people turn in their time of need? If you identify as LGBT and suffer from any kind of a mental health issue, you can come here. As a gay man who’s lived with PTSD for the better part of forty years, I hear you. I understand what you’re going through. And that’s why I’m asking you to open your hearts to Michael Schwarz and Lee Brister, a gay couple based in South Florida. Lee lives with PTSD. He also has epilepsy, which makes it impossible for him to hold down a job. Michael and Lee are now living apart. Michael remains in their Florida home, which he owns and where he has a job. Lee moved to Arizona in order to get proper treatment for his illness, which Florida Medicaid does not cover, and which Michael cannot afford to pay for. They’re hoping to be reunited in a year. “It’s been extremely difficult,” Michael told me. “We miss each other so much. I couldn’t move because I own a house and have a career here in Florida -- there are no jobs available for what I do in Arizona.” Michael described Lee’s epileptic condition. “Lee has had seizures for years,” he said. “He has been trying for months to get a neurologist, thanks to Florida Medicaid. His psychiatrist made matters worse by constantly upping his medication when they were having no effect.” Lee’s PTSD, according to Michael, was caused by physical, emotional and sexual abuse at the hands of his stepfather, a preacher named Brian Andrews. “This man of God

SouthFloridaGayNews

abused Lee between the ages of five and six,” Michael said. “Every night, Brian would come into Lee’s room and rape him. It got so bad towards the end, Lee took to sleeping in the back of his closet just to hide from Brian.” After Brian and Lee’s mother split up, the police came to their house to show them a sketch of a man who was wanted for molesting young boys in the area. It was Brian. Years later, Lee was raped again, this time by a police officer. He attempted suicide, and was in a coma for several weeks. Though he survived, it appears that he suffered brain damage, which led to his epileptic seizures. Michael and Lee love each other deeply. “We found out that we are almost identical and perfectly match,” Michael said. “We both love pagans, dragons and even have the same birthday. We’ve been inseparable since the first day.” But now they are separated by thousands of miles so Lee can get his medical treatment --Michael says he worked 18 hour days but still fell behind in the bills. I hope that readers of this column will consider helping Michael and Lee. If they can raise funds to cover Lee’s medical expenses then Lee can move back to Florida sooner rather than later. Please think about making a donation to their Go Fund Me page so that Michael and Lee can be reunited in the home where their hearts are: www.gofundme.com/k1fnr8?pc=mb_em

If we don’t stand up for each other, then who will stand up for us? “I’m Lee’s support system and he is my soul,” said Michael.

opinion jesse's journal

The Islamic State Prejudice and Power

Jesse Monteagudo

The Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant, also known as ISIS or ISIL, is an anachronism to those who believe in human progress. It is a throwback to the seventh and eighth centuries, a time when Darul Islam (the House of Islam) was the greatest civilization on earth, outside China. It seeks to resume the “holy wars” of the twelfth and thirteenth centuries, when Crusaders and Jihadists fought for control of the Holy Land (now Israel and the Palestinian territories). It is a continuation of a centuries-old Muslim civil war between Sunnis and Shiites. Though friends and foes alike search through the Koran in an attempt to make sense out of it, ISIS is best described by a Roman philosopher who lived seven centuries before Mohammed, Lucretius, who in De Rerum Natura (On the Nature of Things) spelled out the reason behind ISIS and so many like it: “to so many evils religion has persuaded men.” That the Islamic State does great evil in the name of religion there is no doubt. That it uses its power to promote its prejudices is equally evident. Its goal is world domination. On June 29, 2014 ISIS proclaimed itself to be a worldwide caliphate and named its leader Abu Bakr alBaghdadi as caliph, the first person to hold that title since the fall of the Ottoman Empire (1922). ISIS claims religious, political and military authority over all Muslims everywhere; adding that “the legality of all emirates, groups, states and organizations becomes null by the expansion of the caliphate’s authority and arrival of its troops to their areas.” It took advantage of the Syrian civil war and the withdrawal of American troops from Iraq to seize territory in Syria and Iraq. ISIS also gained the allegiance of the Nigerian terrorist group Boko Haram and of western sympathizers who traveled to the Middle East to join the cause. The Islamic State uses modern technology and social media to promote its medieval goals. It carries Muslim ideology to an extreme and threatens dire consequences to those it considers to be apostates or infidels; in other words, the vast majority of the human race. Among ISIS’s crimes against humanity are its violent persecution of

religious and ethnic minorities - Jews, Christians, Kurds, Assyrians, Yazidis; its mistreatment of women; its beheading of western journalists and aid workers; and its destruction of historical and cultural artifacts, most notably the bulldozing of the ancient Assyrian city of Nimrud. Not surprisingly, LGBT people are part of the Islamic State’s ever-increasing enemies list. ISIS believes homosexuals are a danger to the public, the “worst of all creatures” on par with pedophiles. When ISIS recently threatened the city of Rome (the “Crusader capital”) with conquest and the establishment of Shariah law there, it added that it will “use your leaning tower of pizza [sic] to throw off homosexuals.” Not since the Roman gladiatorial games have executions been such crowd pleasers. Though ISIS has used the religiouslysanctioned method of stoning, it prefers to throw “gay” men to their dooms from a roof or a tower, often for the entertainment of their supporters. At times the public execution of “gay” men is accompanied by the deaths of other so-called criminals, such as adulterous women who are stoned or thieves who are crucified. One man, who was thrown from the top of a seven-story building, survived the fall, only to be stoned to death by the ISIS-inspired mob. Like other media, I use the word “gay” in italics, since it might not be correct to use such a “western” word to describe same-sex loving men who live in Darul Islam and other non-western cultures. There is also the possibility that some of the victims are heterosexual; and that ISIS used their alleged homosexuality as an excuse to execute them. Lucretius was right. Though religion can inspire good, it can also lead to great evil. The Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant subverts Islam to promote its hatred and lust for power. Not since the Nazi Party is a group of humans as universally or as deservingly hated as is ISIS. Their rise to power is proof that, in spite of our advances in technology, our species is as morally lacking today as we were thousands of years ago, when Jesus and Mohammed and Buddha walked the earth.

Jesse Monteagudo is a freelance writer and journalist. He has been an active member of South Florida's LGBT community for more than four decades and has served in various community organizations. soflagaynews //

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column letter from the editor

S is for 'Spineless' SPJ ignores Indiana controversy

Jason Parsley

A Gala Dinner. A Night to Remember. In the ballroom of The Seminole Hard Rock Hotel and Casino

Honoring Judy Shepard

President, the Matthew Shepard Foundation

Benefitting The Pride Center at Equality Park The Harvey Milk Foundation

Featuring Stuart Milk

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When the NCAA, which is headquartered in Indianapolis, came out against the religious freedom bill in Indiana it sent a powerful message to lawmakers. This is a sports organization calling into question a bill about discrimination and religious liberties. Not your typical LGBT rights group. There’s a group that I belong to that’s also headquartered in Indiana — The Society of Professional Journalists. I am currently the past president of our state chapter in Florida and I have thrown my name in the hat to run for the national board. So when the Indiana governor signed this discriminatory bill into law I reached out to SPJ national to see how they were going to respond? To my extreme disappointment they came back with a generic response. “While we personally disagree with the intent and language of the legislation, it is a freedom of religion issue which does not fall under SPJ's purview,” President Dana Neuts wrote. “To my knowledge, we have not spoken out about such issues in the past, and I don't believe we should now.” I didn’t realize the NCAA was an organization that typically deals with religious freedom. Oh right — they’re not — they’re a sports organization. Simply saying this is a “freedom of religion issue,” is short sighted at best. This is not a freedom of religion issue. This is a moral and ethical issue. Freedom of religion doesn’t give anyone the freedom to discriminate – or it shouldn’t. When I read SPJ’s response one word came to mind: spineless. Justice. Civil Rights. These topics of our day should be addressed by everyone, not just your run of the mill LGBT rights groups. A multitude of non civil rights organizations have come out against such bills this time around and in the past. The Superbowl threatened to pull out of Arizona when a similar bill in that state was up for discussion. In Indiana multiple groups and businesses have spoken out against the law. Furthermore one of SPJ’s highest awards is the “Eugene S. Pulliam First Amendment Award.” Not the freedom of speech award, or the freedom of press award — it’s the “First Amendment” award. No where on the page does it even mention the word “press.” Instead it says it’s intended to “honor a person or persons who have fought to protect and preserve one or more of the rights guaranteed by the First Amendment.” Freedom of religion falls under the First Amendment and so does freedom of expression, freedom of speech, and freedom of the press. All of these freedoms go hand in hand. And sometimes they’re hard to separate.

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“Thanks for your concern and for taking the time to reach out. I personally find this action appalling - in Indiana and any other jurisdiction that feels this behavior is acceptable,” Neuts wrote. Personally being against something isn’t enough. SPJ represents 8,000 journalists, some of which, like myself, are LGBT. They should know that their organization backs them up. Not just personally — but as an organization. Neuts did say she would add this discussion to their upcoming board meeting on April 18 in Indianapolis. No one will care in a month what SPJ thinks, even if they decide to issue some watered down press release saying how much they love and respect everybody. But I shouldn’t be surprised. This is an organization that didn’t even officially include the LGBT community in its diversity scholarship program until 2011. I remember when a fellow local board member, in 2010, suggested I apply. I visited the eligibility page and was disappointed to learn that SPJ’s definition of diversity did not include sexual and gender minorities. “It is an important and sensitive issue, but it is not a journalism issue and does not fall within the scope of SPJ's mission,” Neuts wrote. So what is SPJ’s mission? Well it includes this: “To encourage diversity in journalism.” Yet they won’t stand up diversity? And what about this part? “To encourage a climate in which journalism can be practiced freely.” Laws like these in Indiana promote and foster a climate of fear and discrimination and hatred. What about those LGBT journalists that live and work in Indiana? What about employees of SPJ that work in Indiana? How can they live up to their commitment of being an “equal opportunity/ affirmative action employer and encourages applications from all qualified individuals including women, people of color, persons with disabilities, and lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender individuals”? Even SPJ’s code of ethics include these powerful statements about diversity and minorities: “Boldly tell the story of the diversity and magnitude of the human experience. Seek sources whose voices we seldom hear.” And… “Give voice to the voiceless.” Those words inspire me as a journalist. I wish the national board could live up to them. There’s a reason journalists often quote people saying “no comment” or that person “did not respond” because silence is a statement unto itself. And SPJ’s silence, speaks volumes.

column guest

Trans Access to Bathrooms is a Reproductive Justice Issue By Gabriel Garcia-Vera

Florida Latina Advocacy Network Field Coordinator for the National Latina Institute for Reproductive Health

It seems like the most basic of human rights: to be able to use a public bathroom without feeling unsafe. Yet if conservative lawmakers in Florida have their way, bathrooms will soon become hostile territory for many trans and gender nonconforming Floridians. A bill that is moving through committee in the Florida legislature (HB 583) would make it a second-degree misdemeanor to “knowingly and willfully” enter a public facility, such as a bathroom or locker room, that is restricted to members “of the other biological sex.” Maximum penalties would be 60 days in jail and a $500 fine. The bill would also penalize businesses who fail to police their bathrooms in compliance with the rule. The House Government Operations Subcommittee recently approved the measure by a vote of 7-4, mostly along party lines. There is so much wrong with this bill it’s hard to know where to begin. First, the bill is based on scaremongering and misinformation by antiLGBTQ conservatives intended to sow fear that trans people using public bathrooms poses a threat to public health and safety. This could not be further from the truth. In reality, we know that trans people are far more at risk than a threat—whether in public bathrooms or in other public places. Across the country, trans people frequently face physical attacks, threats, bullying, police harassment, and even arrest just for trying to use the restroom where they feel the safest and most comfortable. As the DC Trans Coalition points out: “The idea that trans people are more likely to commit such crimes is only a harmful, bigoted stereotype. Further, even if trans people are allowed to use the bathroom that is consistent with our gender identity, there are already laws against sexual assault. Allowing us to pee in peace won’t change that, or make it easier for anyone to break those existing laws.” Forcing trans people to use a bathroom in which they feel unsafe, and are likely to be targeted, “outed,” or even assaulted is inhumane. The consequences of such a bill becoming law would no doubt include increased violence against trans and gender nonconforming (GNC) Floridians and further marginalize communities that already face unacceptably high levels of police and interpersonal violence and discrimination in employment and healthcare, which in turn cause and exacerbate poverty, un-insurance, and

homelessness. The obstacles are even greater for trans Latinas and other women of color. Despite these clear and compelling facts, conservative legislators continue to push reactionary and bigoted proposals like this one. The bill’s supporters have truly shown their ignorance as they’ve pushed the bill forward: trotting out tired transphobic stereotypes and casually dismissing the very real threat to trans people’s lives posed by this bill as mere: “discomfort, inconvenience and awkwardness.” It’s hard to tell where the lack of understanding of trans people’s lived experience ends and the willful disrespect begins. While this bill is clearly an attack on trans and GNC people, and that is reason enough to oppose it, the consequences could be even more far-reaching. Because the bill would penalize businesses that fail to adequately police their bathrooms, this means that business owners would now be responsible for trying to guess the “biological sex” of anyone using the restroom, a policy that beyond being conceptually incoherent would be impossible to enforce without severe invasions of privacy. Anyone who is deemed to be suspicious could be singled out or refused service. The entire premise is dehumanizing. As a queer person and reproductive justice advocate, it’s crystal clear to me that this bill is a violation of human rights, dignity, and self-determination. Being able to address your basic human needs-like using a public restroom--is about bodily autonomy, health, and safety. On the other hand, forcing business to collude with government to police the so-called "biological sex" of anyone using a bathroom would be ludicrous if the potential harms weren't so deadly serious. That's why I’m going to keep fighting it every step of the way. Trans people—trans women in particular— already face violence, discrimination, and harassment simply for stepping outside their homes. This bill would only add to that toxic culture that denies trans people their humanity and forces some to fear the simple act of going outside. Floridians need policies that respect the human rights of all our communities, and the last thing we need is the Sex Police patrolling public bathrooms. It's time for FL legislators to take this discriminatory, unworkable bathroom bill--and flush it. soflagaynews //

SouthFloridaGayNews // SFGN.com // 4 .1.2015 //

lifestyle photos

5 1 0 2 J.R. Davis Team SAVE with Tony Lima

AHF Raises over $1 million at its Annual Awareness Fundraiser & Concert Team SFGN with Mike, Jim, Tommy, and Karlo.

eryl James Salt n Pepa's ChDenton and Sandra

e con

Costum

th fairie test too

Team Happy Hineys and Nate Klar Raphael feld

AHF Founder Michael Weinstein, Fort Lauderdale Commissioner Dean Trantalis, Robert of the Wellness Center, AJ from Impulse Group, and Kevin from Poverello.

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lifestyle history

HOMO HISTORY 101 Pier Angelo

he Virginia Colony passed the earliest American sodomy law in 1610, and was soon followed by other nearby colonies.

Leonardo da Vinci (1452 –1519)

was an Italian polymath, painter, sculptor, architect, musician, mathematician, engineer, inventor, anatomist, geologist, cartographer, botanist, and writer. He is widely considered to be one of the greatest painters of all time and perhaps the most diversely talented person ever to have lived. His genius, perhaps more than that of any other figure, epitomized the Renaissance humanist ideal. Leonardo has often been described as the archetype of the Renaissance Man, a man of "unquenchable curiosity" and "feverishly inventive imagination.” Among his works, the Mona Lisa is the most famous and most parodied portrait and The Last Supper the most reproduced religious painting of all time. Leonardo's drawing of the Vitruvian Man is also regarded as a cultural icon, being reproduced on items as varied as the euro coin, textbooks, and T-shirts. Leonardo is revered for his technological ingenuity. He conceptualized flying machines, an armored vehicle, concentrated solar power, an adding machine, and the double hull, also outlining a rudimentary theory of plate tectonics.

Dusty Springﬁeld OBE (1939 –1999) was an English pop singer and record

producer whose career extended from the late 1950s to the 1990s. With her distinctive sensual sound, she was an important blue-eyed soul singer and at her peak was one of the most successful British female performers, with six top 20 singles on the United States Billboard Hot 100 and sixteen on the United Kingdom Singles Chart from 1963 to 1989. Among the hits were "Wishin' and Hopin,'" "I Just Don't Know What to Do with Myself" "You Don't Have to Say You Love Me.” In the mid-1990s, owing to the inclusion of "Son of a Preacher Man" on the Pulp Fiction soundtrack, interest in her early output was revived. From mid-1966 to the early 1970s Springfield lived in a domestic partnership with fellow singer Norma Tanega. In the 1970s and 1980s, Springfield became involved in several romantic relationships with women in Canada and the U.S. that were not kept secret from the gay and lesbian community. From late 1972 to 1978, Springfield had an "off and on" domestic relationship with Faye Harris, a U.S. photo journalist. In 1981 she had a six-month love affair with singer-musician Carole Pope of the rock band Rough Trade. In 1982 Springfield met an American actress, Teda Bracci, at an AA meeting – in April 1983 the pair moved in together and seven months later they exchanged vows at a wedding ceremony which

was not legally recognized under California law. The pair had a "tempestuous" relationship and separated within two years.

1610: The Virginia Colony passes the earliest American sodomy law, dictating the death penalty for offenders. The law does not include women as potential sodomites. 1636: In the Massachusetts Bay Colony, Rev. John Cotton proposes the death penalty for sixteen crimes, including sodomy, which he calls “unnatural filthiness” defined as ‘carnal fellowship of man with man, or woman with woman.’ In 1641 The Bay Colony adopts the proposed law and makes sodomy a capital crime. In 1642 Connecticut follows suit. In 1647 Rhode Island passes the same law so does New Jersey in 1668, New Hampshire in 1680, Pennsylvania in 1718, Delaware in 1719. 1665: Conquered by the English in 1664, New Netherland becomes a proprietary colony of the Duke of York. The following year representatives from several towns enact laws that include the death penalty for sodomy between men over the age of fourteen. 1848: The first Women’s Rights Convention in Seneca Falls, NY, passes the “Declaration of Sentiments and Resolutions.” This convention launches several lesbians and bisexual women into the national limelight, most notably Susan B. Anthony. 1897: Havelock Ellis writes his famous ‘ Sexual Inversion’ about the great prevalence of sexual inversion in American cities. His book is the first to treat homosexuality impartially, but his observations are limited to men. 1914: In Portland, Oregon, a dictionary of criminal slang is published, in which the first printed use of the word ‘faggot’ referring to male homosexuals appears. If you want to learn more about your gay heritage and those who paved the way, through activism, sacrifice, courage and civil disobedience to give us a better and freer life you can visit The Stonewall Museum & Archives in Wilton Manors. We should all know who our gay heroes are and be thankful for what they did on our behalf. soflagaynews //

SouthFloridaGayNews // SFGN.com // 4 .1.2015 //

lifestyle food

Farm to Table Dining Rick Karlin

Photos: Facebook

The concept behind a farm to table restaurant (FTTR) makes it extremely difficult to review. Since FTTRs use only what is the freshest available from local farmers, the menu is unlikely to be the same on any given night. For example, the protein in an entrée may remain constant; say a roasted

// 4.1.2015 // SFGN.com //

Watermelon Patch, a combination of fresh watermelon juice, Svedka Clementine Vodka, ginger liqueur and lemon juice. It was just like biting into a spiked melon. From the starters menu we sampled the deviled eggs with truffle sea salt, which were delish, but could have used a few more grains of salt. Goat cheese croquettes were so yummy we didn’t need the overly sweet red chili-guava jelly. A salad of local heirloom tomatoes featured grilled houlumi “croutons.” The small plates, while really not so small, included a perfectly grilled Akaushi flat iron steak served with yummy crispy fingerling potato skins. Although gnocchi is one of my husband’s favorites, I’m usually not a fan; the dumplings too often tend to be gummy. Not at Max’s Harvest. The giant dumplings made with local ricotta managed to combine a cloud-like interior with a crisp exterior and, were almost like pot-stickers. A crisp Parmesan risotto cake was perfectly fine, but what could follow those gnocchi? I still dream of them. Desserts included made to order doughnuts and doughnut holes and, perhaps the best invention in the world; a wedge of Key Lime flavored cheesecake topped with a sugar bruleé. Max’s also serves brunch on Saturday and Sundays until 2:30 p.m. and offers an unlimited interactive Bloody Mary bar and champagne cocktails for$15 per person.

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Market 17 1850 SE. 17th St. Ft. Lauderdale 954-835-5507 market17.net

The owners of Market 17 are Kirsta and Aaron Grauberger, a brother and sister team of sommeliers that have created a FTT organic restaurant serving "wine country cuisine." Appetizers are in the $10 to $15 range and might include ceviche, beef tartare, flatbread and a variety of salads. One recent evening the salad offerings included a roasted beet salad and a kale salad with fresh strawberries. Entrees are available in tasting portions, priced from $15 to $25, or as full-sized entrees, priced from $20 to $45. On that same night the options included

Max’s Harvest 169 NE 2nd Avenue Delray Beach 561-381-9970 maxsharvest.com

Delray’s Max’s Table is a true FTTR and one of my favorite restaurants and I’m not alone in that opinion. Just check out Max’s Harvest’s ratings on Yelp, it looks like a cheering section. That’s not a surprise since Max’s Harvest dishes up some truly mouth-watering fare, in chic and comfy surroundings with marvelously attentive service. Max’s uses meat from animals that were raised humanely and free of steroids, growth hormones & antibiotics. The seafood is caught or raised without damaging the ecosystem and the produce comes from farmers from Delray, Boynton and Loxahatchee, as well as many other vegetable and fruit farmers throughout the state. The beef is Akaushi (related to the Japanese Wagyu) from a ranch in Clewiston, a rancher from Deland raises grass fed lamb and the pork comes from a farmer in Avon Park who raises Hereford pigs, a heritage breed. That’s all well and good, but the important thing is that at Max’s Harvest, they treat the products responsibly and prepare them in delicious ways that will amaze you. You’ll pay a bit more at a FTTR, but the quality is worth it. Max’s Harvest serves small plates, although there are a few entrees for those who demand that sort of thing. We started with small plates and were so full that we had to make a choice entrée or dessert? Desserts always win. I started with a crafted cocktail, the

chicken, since most animals, except for some seafood, are available no matter what the season. However, the side dishes usually vary on a weekly, if not daily basis. In the Fort Lauderdale area, we have a few FTTRs that are undeniably excellent examples of farm to table dining.

seared Florida wahoo served with coconut basmati rice, bok choy, glazed shiitake mushrooms, ginger crème fraiche and fennel chutney. Other fish options were black grouper, shrimp and cheddar grits. Meat eaters had the option of beef tenderloin, grilled antelope loin, pork tenderloin, duck or pan roasted free range chicken served with creamy wheat berry risotto, roasted broccoli, butternut squash and pearl onions. The vegan offering for that evening was smoked tofu with sautéed kohlrabi, rutabaga, pickled pearl onions, grilled greens and roasted beet puree.

Swank Table Swank Produce in Loxahatchee Groves 561-202-5648 swankspecialtyproduce.com

For the ultimate in FTT dining, check out Swank Produce, in Loxahatchee Groves. After a tour of the farm’s hydroponic growing houses, guests gather at a table in the fields for al fresco dinners prepared by local and nationally

known chefs. Last season, Swank Produce hosted seven such dinners, donating a portion of the proceeds for each dinner to local charities. The season for these dinners is roughly October through April.

Sublime Restaurant & Bar 1431 North Federal Highway 954-615-1431 sublimerestaurant.com

While not technically a FTT restaurant, Sublime, the vegan/vegetarian restaurant, must be included for its innovative vegan dining, which has been known to win over even the most ardent carnivores. It is often named as among the best restaurants in Fort Lauderdale, not the best vegetarian or best healthy, just the best. Not only is it nationally renowned and a favorite

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stop for vegan celebrities such as Paul McCartney, it is reasonably priced, with apps, soups and salads in the $7 to $12 range and entrees priced between $15 and $20. As an indication of the restaurant owner's dedication to animal welfare and the vegan lifestyle she gives 100 percent of her profits to organizations that promote both causes.

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SouthFloridaGayNews // SFGN.com // 4 .1.2015 //

food

M a rch 25 Co r re c t i o n Steaking A Claim

4Capital Grille Rick Karlin

J.W. Arnold Submitted Photo

FREE glass of house wine with dinner purchase must present coupon Expiration: April 22nd, 2015

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This steakhouse is known for dry-aged steaks, chops and fresh seafood. Start with the pan-fried calamari with cherry peppers, it’s unusual and has just the right kickoff heat. The asparagus soup is also delightful and something unique. The Delmonico with a porcini mushroom crust and an aged Balsamic glaze is Capital’s signature steak. Citrus glazed salmon, served over haricots verts, fresh asparagus and roasted cippolini onions is an alternative for the meat eater. Unlike many steakhouses, many of Capital’s entrees come with side dishes, but don’t

pass on the grilled asparagus or lobster mac and cheese, which is as decadent as you might imagine. Desserts aren’t especially imaginative or memorable. Service is exceptional, especially if you alert them of a special event, such as a birthday or anniversary. There’s a lively cocktail hour and the bar menu is quite nice, offering beef tenderloin sandwiches and miniature lobster and crab as well as the calamari mentioned previously. There’s an $18 lunch special for those wanting to experience the luxury on a budget.

Capital Grille 2430 E. Sunrise Blvd. (in The Galleria) 954-446-2000 www.thecapitalgrille.com In SFGN's March 25 issue we mistakenly repeated two of the steak house reviews twice and omitted the Capital Grille review. We regret the error.

DON’T MISS THE 2015 HONOREES!

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F O R

SFGNITES

T H E

J.W. Arnold

jw@prdconline.com

THU ART

W E E K

O F

A P R I L

7 ,

2 0 1 4

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

4/2

In conjunction with the week long Palm Beach Pride celebration and presented by the Pride Business Alliance, check out Erotica 2015, a new exhibit in Lake Worth featuring a fascinating and diverse collection of photography, sculpture and paintings by Joanne Urban, Ali Miranda, Allison Kotzig and Orlando Chiang. The exhibit is on display at Rolando Chang Barrero Fine Art Gallery, 711 Lucerne Ave. in Lake Worth. For more information, go to RCB.ArtGalleryPalmBeach.org.

FRI

THEATER

4/3

“There’s Magic to Do” at the Broward Center as the Tony Award-winning revival of “Pippin” comes to town for a two-week run. This ‘70s musical from Stephen Schwartz (“Wicked”) and reimagined by Diane Paulus (“Hair,” “The Gershwins’ Porgy & Bess”) updates the story of Pippin, the son of Holy Roman Emperor Charlemagne, with the magic of cirque-style acrobatic performances. Catch the crowd-pleasing show through April 12. Tickets start at $34.50 at BrowardCenter.org.

SAT ART

Credit: Steven Shires Photography

4/4 SUN

Photographer Barbara Proud will be in Fort Lauderdale for a book signing party tonight from 5 to 7 p.m. at Mojo, 4140 N. Federal Highway. Her new book, “First Comes Love,” features artistic photographs of long-time LGBTQ couples, including chef/artist Domenick Falcione and Anthony DeMaio, owners of the popular restaurant and nightspot. With more than 20 years of experience, Proud has turned her work toward social documentary. For more information, go to FirstComesLove.org.

The Gay Men’s Chorus of South Florida teams up with the Symphony of the Americas on Tuesday, April 7 and Sunday, April 12 for “Why We Sing” at the Broward Center.

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NIGHTLIFE

4/5 MON

CULTURE

It’s Easter Sunday and you need to get out and celebrate. After that morning egg hunt and brunch, don that Easter bonnet and head down to Wilton Drive. Yes, make like Judy Garland and start your own “Easter Parade.” Bars and restaurants along the drive are offering holiday specials and we have a feeling you won’t be the only ones strutting down the street in your holiday finest. So, get out those hot glue guns and get to work on your creation before Peter Cottontail comes hopping down the bunny trail! soflagaynews //

4/6 TUE

Broadway legend Tommy Tune, the Tonywinning singer, dancer, choreographer and director, will be the guest of honor at the Palm Beach Cultural Council’s Culture & Cocktails program, tonight at 5:45 p.m. at the Colony Hotel, 144 Hammon Ave. in Palm Beach. Rob Russell, entertainment director for the hotel’s Royal Room cabaret, will interview Tune and discuss his storied career on the Great White Way. Tickets are $60 in advance and $75 at the door. For information, go to PalmBeachCulture. com/Cocktails.

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MUSIC

4/7

The 200-voice Gay Men’s Chorus of South Florida teams up with the Symphony of the Americas for “Why We Sing,” an evening of powerful orchestral and choral music, at the Amaturo Theater at the Broward Center tonight at 7:30 p.m. Experience the power of lush strings and male voices in a program of both classics and pops selections conducted by Gordon Roberts and James Brooks-Bruzzese. The program will be repeated on April 12. For tickets, go to BrowardCenter.org.

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SouthFloridaGayNews // SFGN.com // 4 .1.2015 //

a&e dance Announcing the

Marriage of ...

Miami City Ballet Offers Passionate Performance in West Palm Beach J.W. Arnold

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Miami City Ballet artistic director Lourdes Lopez titled the final program of the 2014-15 season, “Points of Departure,” a nod to the world and company premieres on the program. If I were to title the opening performance at West Palm Beach’s Kravis Center last weekend, I would have chosen, “The Joy of Dance.” From the opening downbeat from Opus One Orchestra conductor Gary Sheldon to the final curtain call, the dancers and musicians offered a performance marked by passion and sheer exuberance. The program opened with George Balanchine’s “Raymonda Variations,” vignettes set to selections from Russian composer Alexander Glazunov’s late 19th-century ballet, “Raymonda.” Unlike the cathartic scores of his czarist era contemporaries, Glazunov’s score is lilting and trite, pleasant to listen to and punctuated with the sounds of glockenspiel and harp. Balanchine’s ballet, which debuted in 1961, bookends various solos and pas de deux with large ensemble dances featuring the corps du ballet in his signature style, architectural, almost engineered movements as the ballerinas pass through human chains and form rotating pinwheels and gates. Principal dancer Kleber Rebello and soloist Jennifer Lauren were the featured couple, dancing as one in the pas de deux, while astonishing the audience with their effortless leaps and turns in the solo movements. The West Palm Beach audience rewarded their efforts with multiple ovations. Had Balanchine been born a century later, he might have created “Heatscape,” the world premiere ballet commissioned by 28-year-old wunderkind Justin Peck. Peck set his ballet to early 20th century Czech composer Bohuslav Martinů’s Piano Concerto No. 1 (performed flawlessly by Francisco Rennó). It was an appropriate match for Peck’s choreography:

both music and dance were firmly rooted in the classical form, but occasionally ventured into contemporary harmonies and movements. The work was also inspired by a dramatic mural created by artist Shepard Fairey, whose work was discovered by Peck during an outing to the famous Wynwood walls. A giant sun dominates the mural, which stylistically implies Indian, Art Deco and street art influences. The ballet at first suggests youthful games on a playground as the dancers playfully interact with each other, alternating classical technique with running and jumping. Regardless, all three movements were danced with passion and an almost reckless abandon. The program concluded with a company premiere, “The Concert (or, The Perils of Everybody)” by Jerome Robbins. A comedic ballet set at an outdoor concert featured many familiar solo piano works—polonaises, mazurkas, waltzes and preludes—by Frederic Chopin. Arranged as a sort of concerto with orchestral accompaniment, Rennó is placed on stage and must perform double duty as a character in the scene. The laughs begin almost immediately as Rennó takes his place at the piano and the assorted band of audience members arrive. They engage in romantic trysts and even a little intrigue in the clever “charade.” Chopin’s famous “Raindrop” prelude is punctuated with umbrellas and inventive props play key roles in the other scenes. Not only did the company master the challenging choreography—it was MUCH more complicated than it looked—but they immersed themselves in their roles, again earning thunderous applause and shouts to conclude the program. After nearly 10 seasons following Miami City Ballet, I can say “Points of Departure” is one of my favorite programs and should not be missed.

Miami City Ballet repeats Program IV: “Points of Departure” at the Arsht Center in Miami, April 10 – 12, and at the Broward Center in Fort Lauderdale, April 17-19. For tickets and show times, go to MiamiCityBallet.org.

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a&e news

New Art Exhibit Shines ALAN CUMMING Uncut Light on Suicide ‘Thirteen Three’ on display through April 8

With Special Guest Dina Martina

Denise Royal

Every thirteen minutes and three seconds, in Henrique’s art gallery,” Dunham said. someone in America commits suicide. On What you see on display is the range of January 10, 1998, Roger Dunham was one of emotions people go through before taking those people. But to his son, Christopher, their own lives. According to Dunham’s that act was much more than just a simple vision, the exhibit transports the participant statistic. Christopher Dunham was forever on a journey into the last minutes of a changed by his father’s suicide. chaotic mind, one “that chooses to end the “The guilt, the isolation, the anger, the living hell in which it finds itself.” nightmares each night for years, me being The installations also touch upon the lives diagnosed with PTSD I did not have the tools and the emotional toll that suicide plays on to overcome all this at once. I did not ask for those left behind. Even if you have not been this but it was my journey. Therefore, I dealt personally impacted by suicide, it’s difficult with it in a very self-destructive behavior not to get choked up as you walk through by sinking into my dark demons of drugs, the gallery. This powerful project has helped alcohol, self-hate,” Dunham said. Dunham heal. It took years of work, but Dunham, a “The art has been cathartic. It has given successful businessman and former pro me a chance to forgive my father and myself baseball player, started on a long journey in the process. Yet, at the same time to bring to come to terms with such a taboo subject his father’s suicide. He to at least a discussion pours his feelings out or awareness and into an installation art hopefully I’m able to exhibit titled “Thirteen touch someone in a Three” now on display positive way or at least at the House of Art help them release their gallery in Wynwood. pain that I had endured “My dream was to put all these years,” he tells this together several SFGN. years ago but I simply The response to was not strong enough the show has been mentally or spiritually. overwhelming. Looking "Repercussions" - the devastating So, in the beginning ahead, Dunham is impact that bullying contributes to of 2014 my heart considering taking the suicide rates. was extremely heavy exhibit on the road. Photo by Tony Brown Photography. and something was “I want to impact yearning inside me to get this done, when all lives,” he said. ‘Thirteen Three’ is definitely of a sudden my good friend Henrique Souza impactful – and it keeps the memories of opened up his art gallery and invited us to his father close by. “My father used to have one of his openings. When I walked in that a saying,” Dunham remembered. “It’s what evening to support my friend the floodgates you do with adversity that counts.” opened up with all the visions I had been Roger Dunham would be proud. thinking about for years and how it could fit

IF YOU GO: Thirteen.Three Art Installation. House of Art Gallery, 415B NW 26th St. Miami, Through April 8, 2015

APRIL 11 TICKETS at ParkerPlayhouse.com

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a&e theater Carbonell Awards Recognize Excellence in Regional Theater J.W. Arnold

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The South Florida theater community gathered Monday, April 30 at the Amaturo Theater at the Broward Center for the 39th annual Carbonell Awards, affectionately known as “theater prom.” Unlike previous years, no individual theater or production swept the awards. GableStage in Coral Gables took home four trophies for three productions, Best Actress in a Play, Natalia Coego, and Best Supporting Actor in a Play, Mark Della Ventura, for “Bad Jews,” Best Supporting Actress in a Play, Arielle Hoffman, “The Whale,” and Best Sound Design, Matt Corey, “The Mountaintop.” Zoetic Stage, in residence at the Arsht Center, came into the evening with the most nominations, 16, and earned three awards, including Best New Work, Michael McKeever, and Best Director of a Play, Stuart Meltzer for “Clark Gable Slept Here,” and Best Production of a Musical, Stephen Sondheim’s “Assassins.” Maltz Jupiter Theatre took Best Production of a Play honors for “The Foreigner,” while Marcia Milgrom Dodge won Best Director of a Musical, for “The King and I.” Leon Weibers won Best Costume Design, also for “The King and I.” The edgy rock and roll musical, “Murder Ballad,” also earned Actors Playhouse in Coral Gables three trophies, Chris Crawford, Best Supporting Actor in a Musical; Mariand Torres, Best Supporting Actress in a Musical; and Best Ensemble.

Credit: George Wentzler

Choreographer Ron Hutchins was one of the big winners Monday night at the 39th Carbonell Awards for his work on “42nd Street” at The Wick Theatre. Slow Burn Theatre, in its second year of eligibility, won in two categories: Best Musical Direction, Emmanuel Schvartzman, and Best Actress in a Musical, Ann Marie Olson, both for “Parade.” Winning one Carbonell each were The Theater at Arts Garage in Delray Beach, Best Actor in a Musical, Clay Cartland, “The Trouble with Doug,” and The Wick in Boca Raton, Ron Hutchins, Best Choreography, for “42nd Street.” Broward County theaters were shut out, including Island City Stage, which swept the awards last year with its powerful production of Dan Clancy’s “The Timekeepers.” The company, which focuses on LGBTQ-themed plays, was nominated for two new works, Josh Mesnick’s “Have I Got a Girl for You” and Michael Aman’s “Poz,” and Best Supporting Actress, Christina Groom in “Have I Got a Girl for You.” In addition to theatrical awards, three local students were presented with scholarships and Iris Acker, actress, author and host of “Spotlight on the Arts” on BECON-TV, was presented with Howard Kleinberg Award for her longtime support of the South Florida theater community.

For a complete list of winners and photographs from the awards ceremony, go to CarbonellAwards.org.

SouthFloridaGayNews

Thirteen.Three An art installation about suicide and it’s collateral damage.

“Every Thirteen minutes and Three seconds someone commits suicide in America Thirteen.Three is a journey into the last minutes of a chaotic mind, choosing to remove themselves from the living hell in which they reside. However, the residual effects felt by the survivor(s) who must now contend with their own living hell; so their journey to ﬁnd enlightenment is just beginning, as the chaotic one leaves us.” Christopher Dunham

Open to the Public March 14 to April 12th 2015 soflagaynews //

415B NW 26TH ST WYNWOOD 33127 Concept : Christopher Dunham Creative Director: Henrique Souza

SouthFloridaGayNews // SFGN.com // 4 .1.2015 //

Datebook

Theater Christiana Lilly

Calendar@SFGN.com

broward county * Gabriel Alegria Afro-Peruvian Sextet

April 4 at 8 p.m. at the Miramar Cultural Center, 2400 Civic Center Place in Miramar. Alegria mixes the inspirations of American jazz with Peruvian music influenced by African culture. Tickets $35 to $45. Call 954602-4500 or visit MiramarCulturalCenter. org.

* Why We Sing

April 7 and 12 at the Broward Center for the Performing Arts, 201 SW Fifth Ave. in Fort Lauderdale. A performance by the 150-man Gay Men’s Chorus of South Florida. Tickets $62 to $85. Call 954-462-0222 or visit BrowardCenter.org.

* Dr. Lonnie Smith Trio

April 8 at 7:45 p.m. at the Broward Center for the Performing Arts, 201 SW Fifth Ave. in Fort Lauderdale. Smith is a master of the Hammond B-3 organ and has been featured on more than 70 jazz albums. Tickets $45. Call 954-462-0222 or visit BrowardCenter. org.

* Tom Paxton & Janis Ian

April 8 at 7:30 p.m. at the Broward Center for the Performing Arts, 201 SW Fifth Ave. in Fort Lauderdale. The two first performed together in 1964 and have put thought-provoking shows ever since. Tickets $45 to $69. Call 954-462-0222 or visit BrowardCenter.org.

Pippin

Through April 12 at the Broward Center for the Performing Arts, 201 SW Fifth Ave. in Fort Lauderdale. A young prince goes on the adventure of a lifetime to find his purpose. Tickets $34.75 and up. Call 954-462-0222 or visit BrowardCenter.org.

palm beach county An Evening With Groucho

April 1 at 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. at the Kravis Center for the Performing Arts, 701 Okeechobee Blvd. in West Palm Beach. Frank Ferrante is considered the best impersonator of Groucho Marx. Tickets $28. Call 561-832-7469 or visit Kravis.org.

* Menopause the Musical

April 1 to 19 at the Kravis Center for the Performing Arts, 701 Okeechobee Blvd. in West Palm Beach. Four menopausal ladies meet at a lingerie sale and bond over hot flashes, night

// 4.1.2015 // SFGN.com //

sweats, and sex. Tickets $43. Call 561-832-7469 or visit Kravis.org.

* Pilobolus

April 2 at 8 p.m.at the Kravis Center for the Performing Arts, 701 Okeechobee Blvd. in West Palm Beach. The dance company brings a oneof-a-kind show. Tickets $20 to $59. Call 561832-7469 or visit Kravis.org.

* The Temptations & The Four Tops

April 4 at 8 p.m. at the Kravis Center for the Performing Arts, 701 Okeechobee Blvd. in West Palm Beach. The Motown legends perform on the stage together for favorites that shot them through the music charts since the ‘60s. Tickets $25 to $120. Call 561-832-7469 or visit Kravis.org.

* Diana Krall

April 6 at 8 p.m. at the Kravis Center for the Performing Arts, 701 Okeechobee Blvd. in West Palm Beach. As a singer, songwriter, and pianist the jazz sensation is truly a triple threat. Tickets $35 to $150. Call 561-832-7469 or visit Kravis.org.

* Memphis

April 7 to 12 at the Kravis Center for the Performing Arts, 701 Okeechobee Blvd. in West Palm Beach. It’s 1950s Memphis and a radio DJ crosses paths with an aspiring singer. Tickets $25 to $66. Call 561-832-7469 or visit Kravis. org.

* Jimmy Buffett

April 9 at 7 p.m. at the Cruzan Amphitheatre, 601-7 Sansburys Way in West Palm Beach. It always feels like the Keys when Buffett is in town with hits like “It’s Five O’Clock Somewhere” and “Cheeseburger in Paradise.” Tickets $37 to $946. Call 561-795-8883 or visit CruzanAmphitheatre.net.

* Cabaret

April 9 to 26 at the Lake Worth Playhouse, 713 Lake Ave. in Lake Worth. At a Berlin nightclub in the 1930s, an American writer finds a bond with an English performer. Tickets $29 to $70. Call 561-586-6410 or visit LakeWorthPlayhouse.org.

They’re Playing Our Song

Through April 12 at the Delray Beach Playhouse, 950 NW Ninth St. in Delray Beach. Inspired by the relationship between Marvin Hamlish and Carole Bayer Sager, young Sonia and Vernon are aspiring songwriters living in New York, working to make it to the top. Tickets $30. Call 561-272-1281, ext. 4 or visit DelrayBeachPlayhouse.com.

* Buried Child

Through April 26 at Palm Beach Dramaworks, 201 Clematis St. in West Palm Beach. A dramedy by Sam Shepard about a young man who returns to what he remembers as his idyllic Midwestern hometown, but instead he’s met by dysfunctional family. Tickets $62. Call 561514-4042 or visit PalmBeachDramaworks.org. soflagaynews //

Tom Paxton & Janis Ian are “Together At Last” at Gosman Amphitheatre Sunday, April 12 at 7 pm. The pair ﬁrst played together at the Village Gate in NYC in 1967. Photo: Facebook

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.

miami-dade county * Tribe

April 2-5, Miami Dade County Auditorium, 2901 W. Flagler St. in Miami. The story of the homeless in Miami is told through movement and visuals in this unique performance by the Bistoury Physical Theatre. Tickets $17. Call 305-547-5415 or visit Bistoury.org.

* Stephen Guerra with the Studio Jazz Band

April 10 at 8:30 p.m. at the South MiamiDade Cultural Arts Center, 10950 SW 211st St. in Cutler Bay. UM’s Frost Studio Jazz Band is lead by Guerra. Tickets $25 in advance, $30 at the door. Call 786-573-5300 or visit SMDAC.org.

* Points of Departure

April 10 to 12 at the Arsht Center, 1300 Biscayne Blvd. in Miami. The Miami City Ballet takes a different direction with new, joyous pieces. Tickets $20 to $97. Call 305949-6722 or visit ArshtCenter.org.

New Jerusalem

April 3 to 26 at New Theatre, 8567 Coral Way #355 in Miami. To be, or not to be? A cast of female actresses tackle the age old question. Tickets $26. Call 305-443-5905 or visit NewTheatre.org.

Through April 26 at GableStage at the Biltmore Hotel, 1200 Anastasia Ave. in Coral Gables. It’s Amsterdam in 1656, and when a young philosopher is accused of atheism, he is shuttled into a synagogue amongst elders to defend himself. Call 305-445-1119 or visit GableStage.org.

* South Beach Comedy Festival

PAMM Outdoor Music Series

* The Magniﬁcents

The Big Show

* Women Playing Hamlet

April 8 to 11 at the Fillmore Miami Beach, 1700 Washington Ave. in Miami Beach. Comedy from the likes of Dave Chappelle, Bill Burr, Michael Yo, Patton Oswalt, Mad Cat Theatre Company, and many more. Visit SouthBeachComedyFestival.com. April 8 to May 3 at the Arsht Center, 1300 Biscayne Blvd., Miami. As fame wanes for a family of magicians, the star of the show takes a young boy under his wing to carry on the tradition. Tickets $45. Call 305-949-6722 or visit ArshtCenter.org.

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Third Thursdays at the Perez Art Museum Miami, 101 W. Flagler St. in Miami. Come out for live music from DJs and musicians by the bay. Drink specials available. Free with museum admission. Call 305-375-3000 or visit PAMM.org. Fridays and Saturdays at 9 p.m. at Just the Funny Theater, 3119 Coral Way in Miami. A collection of comedy mixing the likes of improvisation and sketches. Tickets $12. Call 305-693-8669 or visit JustTheFunny.com. * Denotes New Listing

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SouthFloridaGayNews // SFGN.com // 4 .1.2015 //

Datebook

Community Christiana Lilly Calendar@SFGN.com

broward county

* Bunnies on the Drive

April 4 from 1 to 6 p.m. at the Richardson Historic Park, 1937 Wilton Manors Drive in Wilton Manors. A bonnet and garden party with games and prizes. Tickets $10 benefitting SunServe and Share-A-Pet. Visit SunServe.org.

* “First Comes Love” Book Signing

April 4 from 5 to 7 p.m. at Mojo, 4140 N. Federal Highway in Fort Lauderdale. The photographer behind “First Comes Love,” a collection of beautiful portraits of LGBTQ relationships, will be signing copies during happy hour. Visit FirstComesLove.org.

art = antidote to hate

Through April 10 at ArtServe, 1350 E. Sunrise Blvd. in Fort Lauderdale. A multimedia exhibition of work tackles themes of gender bias, bullying, political persecution, abuse, and racial and religious discrimination. Free. Call 954-462-8190, email information@ artserve.org, or visit ArtServe.org.

* Sage Book Discussion Group: “Gaysia”

April 11 from 11 a.m. to noon at the Stonewall National Museum & Archives, 1300 E. Sunrise Blvd. in Fort Lauderdale. Australian autor, Benjamin Law, shares his book chronicling gay lives in seven Asian countries. Free. Call Philip at 443-614-7135 or Alan at 561- 499-2913.

* From Sanford to Ferguson: #AllLivesMatter March 31 at 7 p.m. at the Pride Center, 2040 N. Dixie Highway in Wilton Manors. A conversation about racial injustice in the LGBT community. Free. Call SF MakalaniMaHee at 954-463-9005, ext. 205 or email smakalani-mahee@pridecenterflorida.org.

Safe “T” Transgender/Gender Variant Group

Wednesdays from 6:30 to 8 p.m. at SunServe South, 2312 Wilton Drive in Wilton Manors. Those who consider themselves to be transgender, transsexual or gender queer are invited to join this drop in support group. Call 954-764-5150 or visit SunServe.org. TransMen’s Group meets once per month on Wednesday evenings at SunServe, and potential participants can call SunServe at 954-764-5150, x110 for the next date.

“As Seen on TV: An Exploration of LGBT Characters: 1954-1979” Exhibit Opening - Through April 26 at

// 4.1.2015 // SFGN.com //

Stonewall Museum – Wilton Manors Gallery, 2157 Wilton Drive in Wilton Manors. The exhibit explores gay characters in American network drama and comedy programs. Free. Call 954-763-8565 or visit StonewallMuseum.org.

Gender Bender Youth Group

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

Survivor Support

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.

palm beach county Cesar Millan Live!

Out of the Closet, Into the Light

Mondays from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. at MCC of the Palm Beaches, 4857 Northlake Blvd. in Palm Beach Gardens. AA for the LGBT community. Free. Call 561-775-5900 or visit MCCPalmBeach.org.

miami-dade county Miss Miami Beach Gay Pride

April 1 at 10 p.m. at Score Nightclub, 1437 Washington Ave. in Miami Beach. Who will be crowned queen? A pageant with presentation, swimwear, evening gown, and talent. The winner will be ride in this year’s Miami Beach Gay Pride Parade, as well as be showered with other prizes. Tickets $15 to $180. Contact Peter Morales at 786- 368-8374 or moralpt@gmail.com.

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.

April 1 at the Kravis CEnter for the Performing Arts, 701 Okeechobee Blvd. in West Palm Beach. The canine guru talks about training techniques and some of his secrets when dealing with difficult dogs. Please leave pets at home. Tickets $25 to $100. Call 561-8327469 or visit Kravis.org.

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Tournees French Film Festival

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“The Age of Ancient Weaponry” Opening

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PFLAG

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.

SunServe Youth Group

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.

GLBX Business Advantage Referral Group

First and third Wednesdays from 8 t 9 a.m. at the Greater Fort Lauderdale Chamber of Commerce, 512 NE Third Ave. in Fort Lauderdale. Call 954-462-6000, extension 8775

The Art of Pop & Comics

Through May 23 at the Coral Springs Museum of Art, 2855 Coral Springs Drive in Coral Springs. An exhibition of works by more than 30 artists known for their contributions to comics such as “Superman,” “Batman,” “The Transformers,” as well as pop art. Artistrepcetion is March 5 at 8 p.m. Admission $6. Call 954-340-5000 or visit CoralSpringsMuseum.org.

BRAIN: The World Inside Your Head

Through May 3 at the Museum of Discovery and Science, 401 SW Second St. in Fort Lauderdale. Learn more about our mysterious brain, from how it works to disorders, with special effects displays. Entry $19 adults. Call 954-467-6637 or visit MODS.org.

Kahlo, Rivera & Mexican Modern Art

Through May 31 at the NSU Art Museum Fort Lauderdale, One E. Las Olas in Fort Lauderdale. Mexican artists Frida Kahlo and Diego Rivera created a new genre of Mexican artwork that is still influential today. Call 954-525-5500 or visit NSUArtMuseum.org. soflagaynews //

Through April 6 at FAU’s Performing Arts building, room 101, 777 Glades Road in Boca Raton. Indulge in a month of French films (with English subtitles) such as “Bastards,” “Berlin 1885: The Division of Africa,” “The Grand Illusion,” and others. FAU faculty will lead discussions after the showing. Contact Roderick Cooke at 561-297-0341 or cooker@ fau.edu.

Through April 9 at the Griffin Gallery Ancient Art, 608 Banyan Trail in Boca Raton. Weapons from the age of the Patriarchs, Moses, and King David, including three bronze swords from the Holy Land. Call 561994-0811 or visit GriffinGallery.net.

* Delray Affair

April 10 to 12 in downtown Delray Beach. Twelve blocks of arts and crafts by artists from 30 states and 12 countries. Visit DelrayAffairs.com.

Afterlife: Tombs and Treasures of Ancient Egypt

Through April 18 at South Florida Science Museum, 4801 Dreher Trail North in West Palm Beach. Explore the world of the afterlife with a screening of “The Mummy,” activities, a mummy wrapping contest, and more. Tickets $20. Call 561-832-1988 or visit SFScienceCenter.org.

Zumba Fitness

Mondays at 6 p.m. at Compass GLCC, 201 N. Dixie Highway in Lake Worth. Get moving with a certificated Zumba instructor for an infusion of exercise and dance moves. Donation of $5 or more. Call 561-324-1626 or visit CompassGLCC.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.

SouthFloridaGayNews

April 2 from 10 to 11 a.m. at the LGBT Visitor Center, 1130 Washington Ave. in Miami Beach. Join the Miami-Dade Gay & Lesbian Chamber of Commerce for a networking breakfast and to learn more about the organization. Free. RSVP to 305-673-4440, rsvp@gaybizmiami.com, or GayBizMiami. com.

April 2 from 11 a.m. to noon at the LGBT Visitor Center, 1130 Washington Ave. in Miami Beach. Learn about the tools availalbe on GayBizMiami.com to benefit your business. Free. RSVP to 305-673-4440, scott@ gaybizmiami.com, or GayBizMiami.com.

* Spotlight Mega-Mixer

April 7 from 6 to 9 p.m. at the Shore Club Hotel, 1901 Collins Ave. in Miami Beach. Kick off Miami Beach Gay Pride mixing and mingling at the pool with members, guests, and visitors with music by DJ Maximus 3000. Great prizes, like a Pride event pass. Free Bacardi and Grey Goose cocktails, cash bar for all others. Tickets $10 for members, $20 others. RSVP to 305-673-4440, rsvp@ gaybizmiami.com, or GayBizMiami.com.

* GALLA Luncheon

April 8 at 11:30 a.m. at City Hall the Restaurant, 2004 Biscayne Blvd. in Miami. Monthly networking program for attorneys, judges, and legal professionals with a discussion on immigration. Limited to 50 people. $35 for members, $45 for nonmembers. RSVP to 305-673-4440, rsvp@gaybizmiami.com, or GayBizMiami.com.

* MTC AfterHours Gala

April 9 at 8:30 p.m. at Miami Theater Center, in Miami Shores. A celebration of 10 years of MTC with a samba show by Mano Santa and Broadway hits by Tonya Pinkins. Tickets $75. Visit MTCMiami.org.

* Denotes New Listing

Datebook

Nightlife Christiana Lilly

Calendar@SFGN.com

Alibi

broward county

2266 Wilton Drive in Wilton Manors. Best and longest happy hour; Wednesdays $2 domestics and $1 Schnapps after 9 p.m. Call 954-565-2526 or visit GeorgiesAlibi.com.

Bill’s Filling Station

2209 Wilton Drive in Wilton Manors. Check out this huge bar and nightclub with drink specials to boot. Karaoke Tuesdays, GROWL Fridays, DILF Saturdays, and happy hour prices until 9 p.m. every day. Call 954-567-6969 or visit BillsFillingStation.com.

Cubby Hole

823 N. Federal Highway in Fort Lauderdale. A unique butch bar for men. Underwear Wednesdays get 2-for-1 drinks from 9 p.m. until close. Call 954-728-9001 or visit TheCubbyHole. com.

Mona’s

502 Sunrise Blvd. in Fort Lauderdale. An eclectic bar with décor that will keep you entertained for hours. Thursdays is “In The Biz”. Call 954-5256662 or visit MonasBar.com.

Naked Grape Wine Bar & Tapas

2163 Wilton Drive in Wilton Manors. A casual, hip bar to try out all sort of wines. Happy Hour all night on Thursdays. Call 954-563-5631 or visit NakedGrapeWineBar.com.

Ramrod

1508 NE Fourth Ave. in Fort Lauderdale. The region’s leading Levi, leather and uniform bar and club. Every night if bear night and caged hunks on Saturdays. Call 954-763-8219 or visit RamroadBar.com.

Rumors Bar & Grill

2426 Wilton Drive in Wilton Manors. Come check out Rumors Bar & Grill. Call 954.565.8851 or visit rumorsbarwm.com

Scandals

3073 NE Sixth Ave. in Wilton Manors. Gay and lesbian country western bar for a night of dancing to your favorite country tunes. Call 954567-2432 or visit ScandalsFla.com.

Sidelines Sports & Video Bar

2031 Wilton Drive in Wilton Manors. Relax with a cold beer for some friendly competition on the pool table. Call 954-563-8001 or visit SidelinesSports.com.

Village Pub Wilton Manors

2283 Wilton Drive in Wilton Manors. Never miss out on a happy hour, as the pub is serving up two-for-one drinks Mondays through Saturdays from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. On Saturdays and Sundays, hit the dance floor with world class VJs. Call 754200-5244.

palm beach county

Fort Dix

6205 Georgia Ave. in West Palm Beach. A great place to mingle and relax with DJs on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays. Call 561-533-5355.

H.G. Roosters

823 Belvedere Road in West Palm Beach. The city’s oldest gay club, with hot male dancer, free BBQ and karaoke. Call 561-832-9119.

The Mad Hatter

1532 N. Dixie Highway in Lake Worth. Cheap drinks, friendly bartenders and free pool from Sunday to Thursday. Call 561-547-8860.

The Palm Lounge

131 E. Palmetto Park Road in Boca Raton. Tuesday country night, Wednesday karaoke, singers or tribute artists on the weekends. Call 561-672-7561 or visit PalmLoungeBoca.com.

Vita Ultra Lounge Saturdays

1225 Belvedere Road in West Palm Beach. LGBT Saturdays with the best drag queens around. Call 561-835-8482 or visit VitaUltraLounge.com.

miami-dade county

Azucar

2301 SW 32nd Ave. in Miami. Jock night Wednesdays, drag Thursdays, girls night Fridays and more. Call 305-443-7657 or visit AzucarMiami.com

Club Space

34 NE 11th St. in Miami. Come out for a night at the infamous nightclub known for crazy all-

soflagaynews //

nighters to the best live electronic dance music. Call 305-350-1956 or visit ClubSpace.com.

Discotekka

950 NE Second Ave. in Miami. Come on Saturday nights for some of the best DJs around. Call 305350-9084 or visit Discotekka.com.

Eros Lounge

8201 Biscayne Blvd. in Miami. Bingo Tuesdays and Born to be a Drag Fridays. Call 305-754-3444 or visit ErosLoungeMiami.com.

Mova Lounge

401 SW Third Ave. in Miami. For a night of dancing and cocktails made by the best mixologists around. Call 305-534-8181 or visit MovaLoungeMiami.com.

Score

1437 Washington Ave. in Miami Beach. Located in the heart of South Beach with hot male dancers, Pop Fever Thursdays and Filthy Gorgeous parties Fridays. Call 305-535-1111 or visit ScoreBar.net.

Therapy

60 NE 11th St in Miami. An all-nude male cabaret, party it up with Latin Wednesdays, college night Thursdays, bear nights on Friday, men hitting the dancing poles on Saturday, and sophisticated Sundays with $9 martinis. Call 305-316-7150 or visit TherapyCabaret.com.

Twist South Beach

1057 Washington Ave. in Miami Beach. Multiple rooms to give you the music you want, muscle boy dancers, and never a cover. Call 305- 5389478 or visit TwistSoBe.com.

SouthFloridaGayNews // SFGN.com // 4 .1.2015 //

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Serving Broward Since 1999

Call for a free estimate: 954-367-7007 Web: www.skimmerspools.com Email: skimmerspoolservice@gmail.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. ASK ABOUT WEEKLY SPECIALS!Calls only 561-2548065 for the very best massage experience you can get HANDS DOWN! #MA51008 MASSAGE BY DENNIS $50/90 MIN (DELRAY BEACH) I give a fantastic Swedish massage for $50/90 min, out calls higher. 20 years experience, all clients are welcome including seniors, as human beings we all need to be touched in a therapeutic, loving, and nurturing way. I do body work without the attitude. Please call me at 561-502-2628.

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PARIS AUTO REPAIR Honest, Genuine Auto Maintenance and Repair Complete in-house service Foreign & domestic including classic cars Same location since 1985 ONLY 4 BLOCKS from FAU main campus PARIS AUTO REPAIR

SouthFloridaGayNews

1801 NW 1st Ct Boca Raton, FL 33432

561-395-7765 Ask for John (“Curly”)

personal trainer

pets/supplies

COACH BILL FOR LIFE Holistic Health, Wellness & Spiritual Coach

Having an outdoor event? Want to protect your guests?

CERTIFIED HYPNOTIST Holistic Life and Nutrition Coach Personal Trainer Spiritual Life Coach and Minister Reiki/Energy/Chakra Healer

HUGH TURNER

Couples/Relationship Coach Addiction Coach

established 1988

954.641.8315 • WWW.COACHBILLFORLIFE.COM

painting GREGG'S PAINTING - Interior/exterior,great rates, friendliness, reliability, neatness. No job too small. Call Gregg at 617-306-5694 or 954-870-5972

plumber

AAA BLOUNT PLUMBING Kitchen & Bathroom remodeling, sewers, plugged drains, new construction and underground leaks. Over 30 years of experience. 24 HR Service. Call Dan 954-980-7499 Lic# CFCO22525

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.

PEST CONTROL

◊ Pest management ◊ Lawn & Ornamental ◊ Termite

Cindy Curtis at

rentals MIKE THE RENTAL GUY NE Lauderdale/Wilton Manors/Oakland/Victoria Park-1/1 from $885 2/1 from $1090. Credit & Income Requirements-Pets okay with restrictions. Call for Details Mike 561-703-5533

rentals furnished housing

840 NW 33 Street Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33309

◊ Marine ◊ Whiteﬂy ◊ Mosquito O [954] 564-0037 F [954] 537-6003

HughTurnerPestControl.com

*PERFECT LOCATION RENTALS* 4 WEEK + SPECIAL FROM $395/WEEK - Intimate 7 unit Liberty Garden Suites offering all the comforts of home. Beautifully Furnished & Full Equipped Studio & One BR Apts. with Full Kitchens, in lush tropical resort setting. 5 Min south of Airport in Dania Beach. Central to Haulover Nude Beach & Wilton Manors. Incl. WI-Fi, laundry,private parking, utilities, cable, tel. Gay Owned & Operated. Longer term Monthly rates available for 3 months + Stays. Pets Always Welcome. Celebrating Our 18th Year. Call Joe or Jack at 954-927-0090 or visit www. LibertySuites.com

spirituality

954.567.1930 2749 NE 10th Ave, Wilton Manors 33334

tax prep HAROLD J BLOTCHER,EA Tax Preparation and Representation for Individuals and Small Business. Help with Same Sex Marriage Issues. Call 781-363-5519 or 561-429-3592 or visit our website at www.haroldjblotchertaxes.com soflagaynews //

SouthFloridaGayNews // SFGN.com // 4 .1.2015 //

// 4.1.2015 // SFGN.com //

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