2/11/15 V6i6 by South Florida Gay News

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February 11, 2015 // vol. 6 // issue 6

Cruise Calamity? Page 10 Sean David: Starting Over Page 16

Love is Love Michael Turchin

Fort Lauderdale Couples Tie Beachside Knots â&#x20AC;˘ PAGES 11, 22, 25

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Michael Bass

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See what news is breaking across the internet Compiled by John McDonald

Florida Court Mulling With Definition of Sex The Florida Supreme Court is weighing the definition of sexual intercourse in the case of a man charged with not disclosing his HIV positive status to his partner. “In the history of Florida law, the specific term sexual intercourse has always been interpreted to mean reproductive

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HUNGARY FACES A HISTORIC STRUGGLE

SEX POSITIVE CULTURE CHALLENGES ETHICS

sexual conduct,” Brian Ellison, attorney for defendant Gary Debaun, told the Associated Press. Debaun is charged with violating a 1986 law requiring HIV positive people to disclose their status to sex partners.

Theatre are in Spanish and all shows have sold out. Nederlander Worldwide Entertainment is producing the musical through March in collaboration with the Cuban National Council of Performing Arts. General admission tickets cost 50 cents.

Gay Man Suing Lowe’s For Harassment

‘FIRST COMES LOVE’ PHOTO FEATURE

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Adam Haimowitz, a gay man, is suing Lowe’s Home Improvement, a North Carolina based appliance retailer, for wrongful termination and enduring a long period of sexual harassment. Haimowitz filed his suit in federal court in New York citing several examples of a

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“frat house mentality” at Lowe’s where he worked for 11 years. Haimowitz was terminated in August after he testified against the company in another sexual MEMBER harassment case involving an employee at the Orangeburg, N.Y. store.

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‘Rent’ Takes Up Successful Residence in Cuba American rock musical “Rent” is enjoying a successful run in Cuba. Director Andy Señor Jr. told the Sun-Sentinel audiences have responded favorably in Havana and everyone is excited to be a part of the first joint American-Cuban Broadway collaboration. Performances of “Rent” at Havana’s Bertolt Brecht

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Cover: Despite rain, mass marriage ceremony in Ft. Lauderdale summons a bright future for many. Photo by J.R. Davis.

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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news highlight Breakup Leads to Breakthrough for Sam Smith

Freedom and commitment go hand in hand.

John McDonald

Sam Smith. Photo: CNN, POOL

Smith recently dedicated his new music video, “Lay Me Down” to the LGBT community. On his Instagram account, Smith wrote the video “shows my dreams that one day gay men and women and transgendered men and women all over the world, like all our straight families and friends, will be able to get married under any roof, in any city, in any town, in any village, in any country.”

Sam Smith, the 22-year-old British singer, took home four Grammys at Sunday’s annual music awards show. Smith is openly gay. He has publicly stated his songs were inspired by a relationship gone wrong. “I want to thank the man who this record is about who I fell in love with last year. Thank you so much for breaking my heart because you got me four Grammys,” Smith said from the stage at Staples Center in Los Angeles. Smith won Grammys for Best New Artist, Song of the Year, Best Pop Vocal Album and Record of the Year. Smith is first openly gay winner of the Grammy Award for Best Pop Vocal Album and Record of the Year. The record -- “Stay With Me” -- is a love torn ballad on the Capitol label which has received heavy airplay via pop radio stations. At the Grammys, Smith performed a soulful duet of “Stay With Me” with American pop singer Mary J. Blige. “This is the best night of my life,” Smith told the audience.

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News Briefs Compiled by John McDonald

Denver Community Mourns Teenage Lesbian Killed By Police

(AP) Mourners filled the pews at Saturday’s funeral for Jessica Hernandez at Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Westminster, a northern suburb of Denver where she grew up. The mass was held in Spanish, with English translation for the crowd that spilled beyond the church’s doors. The Rev. Richard Nakvasil remembered Hernandez as a devoted sister to her five siblings and as an empathetic teenager who tried to help the homeless. But he relied mostly on her own words, reading a poem she wrote in which she tried to summarize her complicated nature. “I seem to be a fighter, someone who doesn’t like connections,” Nakvasil read, speaking into a microphone so those standing in the back could hear. “It seems I don’t want peace. But really I am outgoing … But really I do want peace. Where there is no violence. I really don’t want to fight.” Police have said Hernandez was shot Jan. 26 after she drove a stolen car toward an officer in a residential alley in Denver. Police Chief Robert White has said officers repeatedly told her and four other teens to get out of the car before two officers opened fire.

Court Clears Way for Alabama Same-Sex Marriages Supreme

(CNN) The Supreme Court on Monday cleared the way for gay marriages to commence in Alabama. Luther Strange, Alabama's Attorney General had asked the justices to block gay marriages --- set to commence Monday morning --- from going forward while the Justices consider a challenge to state gay marriage bans in four states. But the Supreme Court issued an order holding the "application for stay presented to Justice Thomas and by him referred to the Court is denied." Late last month, a federal district judge struck down Alabama's laws prohibiting same sex marriage but stayed the order until Monday. Justice Clarence Thomas joined by Justice Antonin Scalia would have granted the stay. Thomas wrote, "In this case, the Court refuses even to grant a temporary stay when it will resolve the issue at hand in several months." Thomas said he "I would have shown the people of Alabama the respect they deserve and preserved the status quo while the Court resolves this important Constitutional question." Thomas said the court's acquiescence "may well be seen as a signal of the Court's intended resolution" of the pending question. Meanwhile, Sunday night Roy Moore, the controversial Chief Justice of the Alabama Supreme Court sent out an order holding that "effective immediately no Probate Judge of the State of Alabama" should issue or recognize a marriage license that is inconsistent with the State constitution. In the order, Moore says that the opinions of the United States District Court for the Southern District of Alabama do "not bind the state courts of Alabama and only serve as persuasive authority."

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A passenger in the car has disputed the police account, saying Hernandez lost control of the vehicle because she had already been shot and was unconscious. The shooting, which remains under investigation, sparked angry protests and came amid a national debate about police use of force fueled by racially charged episodes in Ferguson, Missouri, and New York City. Hernandez’s family and others have called for an outside prosecutor to investigate what happened. The Colorado Latino Forum has said conflicting police accounts of the incident are raising more questions. It said that because Hernandez was young, Latina and gay, she “carried three identities that have often suffered discrimination at the hands of law enforcement.” Last week Denver Mayor Michael Hancock canceled a speech at a gay rights conference because of protests at the event over the shooting. But even as questions swirled about her death, Hernandez’s life was in focus Saturday. Her friends wore red sweat shirts emblazoned with a picture

of her wide smile. Cars in the parking lot had “Justice for Jessie” scrawled on their windshields. Nakvasil said he understood that for many in the crowd, grief was compounded by questions about Hernandez’s death.

In 2003, Moore was removed from the court by a state ethics panel after he refused to remove a monument to the Ten Commandments in the court building. Moore was re-elected in 2012. The Southern Poverty Law Center has launched another complaint against Moore and said in a statement last night that Moore has no authority to tell the probate judges to disregard the ruling of a federal district Court Judge. "It's outrageous," SPLC President Richard Cohen said in a statement. "We urge the probate judges to follow the Constitution of the United States and issue marriage licenses when their offices open in the morning. Chief Justice Moore has no authority to tell them otherwise."

of religious bigotry said. "They're going to push and there will come a point [where] there will be pushback." Comments like these are par for the course for Perkins, who according to Right Wing Watch recently likened looking at photos of gay people on Facebook to anti-Christian persecution. In June 2014, Perkins drew a comparison between "forcing" Christians to make cakes for gays to sending Jews into boxcars to be sent to concentration camps. "I think we're getting close to the point if they move to continue to force Christians to engage in behavior that violates their moral conscience and convictions - it's almost like involuntary servitude," Perkins said during Tuesday's broadcast of FRC Radio's Washington Watch program in reaction to the case of the Oregon baking company recently found in violation of the state's non-discrimination law for refusing service to a lesbian couple.

Drop for HIV Positive Deaths African Americans

Tony Perkins

Group Leader Urges Civil Hate Disobedience

(EDGE) According to Right Wing Watch, Tony Perkins, head of the Southern Poverty Law Center designated anti-gay hate group Family Research Council, warned followers last week that compliance with anti-discrimination ordinances (for instance, baking a cake for a gay wedding) was tantamount to "involuntary servitude." Perkins called on followers to engage in "civil disobedience" to fight for their right to discriminate. "Maybe we're coming to the point of civil disobedience, of saying, 'no, we won't go,'" the self-styled modern day Nat Turner

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A report released last week by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention found an 18 percent drop in the number of deaths among African-Americans infected with HIV from 2008 to 2012. That is a consistent and promising decline, and yet it still means 8,165 African-American HIV patients lost their lives in 2012, a marked disparity that accounts for nearly half of the 17,166 teens and adults with HIV who died in total that year. Most black HIV patients who died were men who contracted the virus through sexual contact with other men. "We cannot drop our guard," Dr. Eugene McCray, director of the CDC's division of HIV/AIDS prevention, said in a statement. "HIV is still a serious crisis in our communities. Even though we represent only 12% of the population, more than a third of people living with HIV in the United States are black. And new infections among young, gay black men are increasing at an alarming rate." While HIV testing is increasing among African-Americans, new infections are still diagnosed less frequently in blacks compared with whites, the CDC said. The agency also said black HIV patients are less likely to be linked to medical care than any other race. McCray said providing that care and treatment could do more than anything else to keep HIV patients alive and prevent new infections.

news bites

by John McDonald

international

rench Politician Condemns Tunisia on Twitter

French politician Jean-Luc Romero took to Twitter to denounce the Tunisian government for incarcerating a homosexual Swedish man. Romero, 55, a Socialist from the Ile-de-France region tweeted France must fight for universal decriminalization of homosexuality. Several European news agencies are reporting a gay man from Sweden has be arrested and jailed in the tiny mostly Islamic North African country for the crime of homosexual acts. The man has yet to be named. Under Tunisian law, homosexuality is a crime punishable with a maximum two year prison sentence. Romero, a married gay man, is a longtime advocate for HIV/AIDS services.

Photo: twitter.

national

ordon Playing Well For UMass Basketball Team

University of Massachusetts guard Derrick Gordon is having a solid junior season for the school’s men’s basketball team. Gordon, made headlines last year when he announced he is gay. He’s averaging 10 points per game, second best in assists and leading the team in steals. UMass (14-9 overall, 7-3 Atlantic 10) was riding a four-game winning streak into Wednesday night’s game at Saint Bonaventure. The 6-foot3 Gordon scored 17 points and grabbed 13 rebounds as UMass defeated Fordham last week. UMass coach Derek Kellogg told the Associated Press the game was Gordon’s best “in a UMass uniform in a long time.”

Credit: Bryan Horowitz.

state

Dems Caucus Changes Florida Name To Be More Inclusive

Members of a caucus within the Florida Democratic Party elected new officers and reaffirmed its name change at a meeting Saturday in Gainesville. Inside the Bayard Rustin Community Meeting Room of the Pride Center of North Central Florida, the FDP’s LGBTA Democratic Caucus was born with a mission to educate, advocate, support and elect. Terry Fleming, of Alachua County, is the Caucus President. The group was formerly known as the Florida GLBT Democratic Caucus. Sally Phillips, membership coordinator, said the “A” in the title stands for allies. “We have allies everywhere and this is to show we are inclusive.”

local

oater Raising Awareness of HIV/AIDS in Miami

A rower seeking to raise funds for HIV/AIDS awareness will have his boat on display at the Miami International Boat Show. Victor Mooney recently completed a row across the Atlantic Ocean in honor of his departed brother. “Gay and bisexual men are more severely affected by HIV than any other group in the United States,” said Mooney. Mooney’s boat will be at the Miami Beach Convention Center for this weekend’s show. He is halfway to raising the $20,000 he needs to repair the boat and set sail for New York. Mooney says his boat was damaged by pirates off the coast of Haiti.

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news election 2016 White House Watch:

Rand Paul

He’s the son of a popular Libertarian politician who represented Texas for many years in the United States Congress. But Rand Paul is indeed his own man. Randal Howard Paul, 52, is the junior U.S. senator from the Commonwealth of Kentucky and a leading candidate for the Republican nomination for U.S President. Paul is following in the footsteps of his father, U.S. Congressman Ron Paul, who campaigned for the Presidency in 2008 and 2012. The younger Paul is a medical doctor specializing in ophthalmology. He is featured in SFGN’s White House Watch this week after allegations surfaced that Paul was once a member of a fringe medical group, the Association of American Physicians and Surgeons (AAPS), which among other radical theories, has promoted AIDS denialism. On same sex marriage, Paul has never been a vocal supporter of gay couples, although he has not shouted opposition as loud as other Republican hopefuls. In

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magazine interviews, Paul has signaled his acceptance of gay people while preferring to reform the U.S. tax code to remove the mention of marriage all together. Paul told CNN last year he is “old fashioned and a traditionalist” who “believes in old fashioned traditional marriage.” Paul has stated several times the issue of marriage should be decided at the state level. Paul recently skipped the Steve King organized Freedom Summit in Iowa, signaling his intentions to run a more center right campaign. Paul is married to Kelley Ashby. The couple of 24 years have three sons.

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news local

Lake Worth Hosts Flash Mob for Women’s Rights Natalya Jones

GalleriaMGroup@gmail.com 997 E. Oakland Park Blvd Oakland Park, FL 33334 8

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Lake Worth is having a Valentine's Day event, but it won't be filled with the usual teddy bear, chocolate, pink overloaded celebration. Instead, it will be a stand against domestic violence and a call to recognize basic human rights. At 2 p.m. in the Lake Worth Cultural Plaza, on Valentine’s Day, members of Empty Closet Women's Theater and One Billion Rising will partake in a flash mob. The event is not just occurring in Lake Worth, but is happening around the world. The statistics of violence again women are staggering and appalling. “According to the World Health Organization, globally 35 percent of women experience sexual violence in their life time. That is more than a billion human beings,” said Mildred Smith, founder of the Empty Closet Women’s Theater. One Billion is classified as “the biggest mass action in human history.” It is a campaign that first took place on Valentine’s Day in 2012 and was started due to the horrifying statistic that 1 in 3 women on the planet will be either raped or beaten in her life. According to Smith, it was crystal clear that One Billion and Empty Closet Women's Theater should be combined to combat this. “Our mission is to provide women with a forum to explore, develop and express their creativity,” she said. “From the beginning of our history, women have chosen to fulfill this mission by bringing awareness of social issues to the forefront

through theatrical performances. Empty Closet Women's Theater is an all women volunteer organization. One Billion Rising is a women's issue, a women's cause. It made sense for us to join our voices with others involved in One billion Rising.” Smith became aware of One Billion as she was registering to manage a production of The Vagina Monologues. She discovered that Eve Ensler and her association had combined The Vagina Monologues and One Billion Rising solely as one campaign. According to Smith, creating a One Billion Rising event was not required. “I saw it as an opportunity to further increase awareness of the issue of violence against women and girls, as does a production of The Vagina Monologues,” she said. “One Billion rising broadens our reach in raising awareness.” Smith calls the women who participate in Empty Closet Women's Theater “nothing less than amazing.” She adds, “Each production has brought with it laughter and tears, forged new friendships help women to grow and heal, and delivered a message that needs to be heard to a broader audience of women and men. One Billion Rising and The Vagina Monologues is doing no less. We hope that people come out to see an amazing group of women perform this year. More importantly we hope that our audiences walk away with a better understanding and awareness of the need to stop the violence against women and girls.”

Visit OneBillionRising.org for more information on the movement or EmptyClosetWomensTheater.com for information the theater.

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news local

Gay Cruise Returns to Port Rumors of overdoses abound

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‘FIRST COMES LOVE’ PHOTO FEATURE

SEX POSITIVE CULTURE CHALLENGES ETHICS

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A gay cruise returned to Miami after two people required medical emergency attention. The RSVP Vacations Cruise had been out to sea for one day before reversing course and returning to port in Miami to offload two as yet unidentified men. According to eye witness reports, the ship was closely followed by helicopters with the U.S. Coast Guard and local news teams. Passengers aboard the Regal Princess were told the ship was returning to Miami due to “medical emergencies.” Roy Gorin, a retired orthopedic surgeon, spoke to SFGN via telephone from the Regal Princess. “It’s an all gay cruise and they’re all drunk,” Gorin said. Gorin said the cruise was scheduled to arrive in Cozumel, Mexico. There is no official word as to what medical emergency caused the ship to return to Miami, although speculation swirls around drug activity.

“There’s three thousand gay men on this boat,” Gorin said. “You know what that means. There’s a lot of high risk activity associated with that.” Calls to the Miami Port Public Affairs Office were not immediately returned Tuesday afternoon. The ship set sail from Fort Lauderdale on Feb. 8 in a special sailing celebrating RSVP’s 30th anniversary. The ship was expected to continue its trip to Mexico and Grand Caymen after dropping off the two passengers.

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news local Wilton Manors to Host ‘We Do’ Ceremony on Valentine’s Day Mike d’Oliveira On Valentine’s Day, the City of Wilton Manors will host “We Do,” a mass wedding ceremony of 50 couples. The day will be divided into four ceremonies: 4:30 p.m., 5 p.m., 5:30 p.m. and 6 p.m. Vows will be made inside the city commission chambers at city hall. Afterwards, marriage toasts will be given inside the Hagen Park Community Center. A deejay will provide music and gift bags will be given to participants. Partnering with the city is Petals Panache, which will provide decorations, and Broward 100, the county’s centennial celebration committee; the number of people married, 100, was chosen to commemorate the 100th anniversary. Wilton Manors Mayor Gary Resnick will officiate. “For years, we have sent Resolutions to the Florida Legislature, filed briefs in court actions, worked with other cities and taken measures within our own boundaries to voice our support of legalizing same sex

marriage, and now it will all pay off,” Resnick said. The city has been preparing, in anticipation of the legalization of same sex marriage, for months. In addition to purchasing new software to better keep track of rentals and special events at city parks and facilities, the city has also invested money in new kitchen equipment at its parks to make them more attractive to possible renters. Last August, the city also hosted “Gay Nuptials A Wedding Showcase” at Hagen Park. Organized by Bobby Keyser, owner of Petals Panache, the event featured wedding planners, photographers, hoteliers and others who are part of the wedding industry. A similar event will be held on Sunday, March 22 from 1 to 4 p.m. at Hagen Park. “We want everyone to think of Wilton Manors for gay weddings,” Keyser said. “We’re going to be a heartwarming and welcoming reception from all over the world.”

The deadline to participate in the group ceremony has already passed. 10

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cover story Tying Knots by the Tides: Bass and Mass Wedding

Pop star serves as ‘Love Is Love’ ambassador

John McDonald

Photo: J.R. Davis

Read more about Love is Love on pages 22 & 25. The Living Room at the W Fort Lauderdale was packed. Stars, every day people, friends and family, workers, tourists, media, clergy and most importantly newlyweds gathered at the oceanfront hotel last Thursday morning. “Look how far we’ve come,” said Lance Bass as he addressed the room. Bass, former members of the boy band ‘N Sync, has grown up and married the man of his dreams, Michael Turchin of Miami. The couple broadcast their commitment in a nationally televised special last week called “Lance Loves Michael.” “This is what it’s all about,” Bass said. “We have to be so visible right now and everyone is doing such an amazing job.” Bass and Turchin met in Palm Springs, California. Bass, now 35, was a 1990s heartthrob as a member teenage pop star. He knew Turchin, an artist and model, was one for him after traveling together. “That’s when you get to know someone,” he said. People got to know each other as stormy weather chased the event inside the Fort Lauderdale Beach hi-rise. A mass wedding had been planned on the beach, hosted by the Greater Fort Lauderdale Convention and Visitor’s Bureau under the theme, “Love Is Love.” The plan called for preparations to be made in the W’s Whiskey Bar on ground level in conjunction with the hotel and when conditions outside deteriorated, the event was moved to the Living Room. Couples – both gay and straight – were able to say and renew their wedding vows inside the W, a longtime leader in progressive and legendary hospitality.

“We are super excited,” said Mary Louise Fitzgibbon, General Manager at the W Fort Lauderdale. “We’ve been working on this for over a year and we’re thrilled it’s here.” Marriage equality was a long hard fought battle in Florida as Attorney General Pam Bondi mounted a vigorous defense of the state’s ban on same-sex marriages. A federal judge’s overturning of the ban finally paved the way for same-sex couples like Bass and Turchin to tie the knot. “We’ve waited a long time to celebrate with our friends and supporters of this hotel,” Fitzgibbon said. “Fort Lauderdale is a destination that is very inclusive. Love is Love. Everyone, straight and gay, can feel comfortable here.” The scene at the W was indeed one of peace and harmony as 100 couples said “I do.” “Michael and I are both from the South,” said Bass, who was born in Mississippi. “Marriage equality is something we both feel strongly about because it means family and togetherness.” Cathy Kellerman, Broward County Courts Operations Manager, said more than 600 same-sex couples have been issued a marriage license in the one month since same-sex marriage became legal in Florida. In that same time span, nearly 11,000 straight couples, in Broward County, were issued a marriage license. At the “Love is Love” event, Fort Lauderdale showcased its pioneering status as a gay friendly destination, said Richard Gray, LGBT marketing director for the Greater Fort Lauderdale Convention and Visitors Bureau. “I cannot wait to have my second home here,” Bass said. soflagaynews //

SouthFloridaGayNews // SFGN.com // 2.11.2015 //

news local

Broward House to Host Spirit of Hope Reception Denise Royal

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On Thursday, Feb. 12, Broward House will host its quarterly Spirit of Hope Reception from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Greenbar and Kitchen. It’s located at 1075 SE 17th Street in Fort Lauderdale. “The Broward House Spirit of Hope receptions are quarterly, free of charge, evening events with food, wine and music. They are sponsored by local restaurants to help Broward House raise money for our HIV/AIDS programs, community network, Spirit of Hope memberships and donors. The money goes directly to gaps in funding like electricity for our buildings, supplies and transportation to get our clients to essential medical appointments, to name a few,” said Lisa Keeler-Kravitz, Director of Development at Broward House. Broward House is a community-centered health organization with several locations, designed to meet the needs of people living with HIV/AIDS in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. Since 1988, it has grown to provide a full array of quality services to those living with and at risk for HIV and other health issues. Broward House serves

over 6,000 women, children, men and families living with or at risk for HIV/AIDS. “The Spirit of Hope receptions are great opportunities for individuals, families, or businesses to network with like minds and eat and drink, free of cost. At these receptions people sign up to be a Spirit of Hope member to support the care and service Broward House provides to the community through an annual contribution commitment. These tax deductible contributions may be submitted monthly, quarterly, or annually,” Keeler-Kravitz said. As an ultimate tribute to its Spirit of Hope partners, Broward House is creating a permanent Spirit of Hope monument. It will be constructed in the entrance of their service centers commemorating partners for their support and belief in their mission and to honor the memory of loved ones. Broward House’s Spirit of Hope Reception takes place Thursday, Feb. 12 at Greenbar and Kitchen from 6 p.m. – 8 p.m.

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news local

Florida Bill Would Invalidate Transgender Protections John McDonald

A bill filed in the Florida House of Representatives would strip away protections for the transgender community. State Rep. Frank Artiles (R-Miami) filed HB 583 last week in Tallahassee. The bill is titled “Single-Sex Public Facilities.” The proposed one sentence law reads as follows: “Single-Sex Public Facilities: Requires that use of single-sex facilities be restricted to persons of sex for which facility is designated; prohibits knowingly and willfully entering single-sex public facility designated for or restricted to persons of other biological sex; provides exemptions; provides private cause of action against violators; provides for preemption.” Artiles told the Miami Herald, “my No. 1 concern is public safety” and that his motivation for filing the bill was the recent ordinance passed by Miami-Dade County prohibiting discrimination on the basis of gender identity and expression. Broward and Monroe Counties have similar ordinances, which Artiles maintains provides a giant

loophole to criminals and sexual predators. Terry Fleming, President of the Florida Democratic Party’s LGBTA (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Allies) Caucus, said the bill interferes with local government home rule authority. “This harmful bill is just the latest example of Republicans using the power of government to humiliate and harass people they view as second class citizens,” Fleming said.

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SouthFloridaGayNews // SFGN.com // 2.11.2015 //

news local

Major Jeweler Signs Presenting Sponsor Deal with AIDS Organization

By Sasha Razumikhin

Three year partnership will involve sponsorship of 27 amfAR events

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In mid-January, Harry Winston, Inc. announced its new partnership with the Foundation for AIDS Research, which will include “direct financial support and inkind donations.” This is a big deal because, according to the fine jeweler, the agreement is the first of its kind coming from amfAR, which has never had a company as a “presenting sponsor.” The next three years, through which the partnership is agreed upon, will include 27 events for Harry Winston to present. And it all ends just two years of shy of 2020, by which amfAR hopes to complete its Countdown to a Cure initiative, which is aimed at developing the scientific basis for a cure for HIV/AIDS by 2020. “Harry Winston has long looked to the glamour of Hollywood and the allure of its most famous and important gemstones, as a way to raise awareness and funds for local charitable causes,” said Nayla Hayek, CEO of Harry Winston, Inc. “amfAR’s history of hosting some of the world’s most prominent charity events to drive support for its pioneering work towards finding a cure for AIDS, mirrors the same philanthropic principles and beliefs the Harry Winston brand was founded upon. Through amfAR, we are proud to not only continue our commitment to bringing more healthy and brilliant futures to all, but also to support the organization’s mission to ending a global epidemic, which continues to impact more than 35 million people worldwide.” So why would some jewelry maker throw money at amfAR, you ask? Well, Harry Winston’s a pretty big deal and gets its product hanging off of many important and famous necks. Among them at the recent 72nd Annual Golden Globe Awards

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were Gwyneth Paltrow, Amal Clooney, Robin Wright, Jessica Lange and Cindy Crawford, who all dazzled in Harry Winston at the 72nd Annual Golden Globe Awards, according to Forbes. “We are tremendously grateful to Harry Winston for making a commitment to amfAR and our mission that is truly unprecedented,” said amfAR Chairman Kenneth Cole. “It represents a long-term partnership with us in working to end the gravest public health threat of our time, and it’s a shining example of genuine corporate responsibility and vision that we hope others will follow.” The first event sponsored by Harry Winston will take place on Feb. 11 in New York City. To learn more about amfAR’s initiative and the new partnership, go to www.amfar. org.

news local

AHF Group Hosts PrEP Discussion

Young men discuss the new HIV preventative pill John McDonald

On the lawn of a waterfront million dollar home in Hollywood an HIV prevention group gathered to talk about sex. The panel discussion, organized by Impulse Group South Florida, featured physicians, health care lobbyists and social workers – all on hand to speak about the controversial issue of pre-exposure prophylaxis or what is commonly referred to as “PrEP.” “PrEP has become a major topic in our community,” said Impulse Group South Florida President A.J. Alegria. “We see a lot of opinions, a lot of debate about whether it’s the right thing to do socially and medically.” Alegria, who moderated the panel, said Impulse Group, an outreach arm of the AIDS Healthcare Foundation, was neither for or against PrEP, but by hosting this event, was seeking to educate the sexually active South Florida community. PrEP involves taking a pill called Truvada in order to prevent being infected with the HIV virus. Panelists discussed those taking the medication, which some in the gay community have labeled “Truvada Whores,” as well as a number of topics involving men who have sex with men. The panel included Kishi Martin, a community outreach educator for Care Resources, Inc.; Mike Williams, a medical doctor completing his internal medicine residency at Mount Sinai Hospital; Steven Santiago, a medical doctor for Care Resources, Inc. and Jason King, manager of advocacy affairs for the AIDS Healthcare Foundation Southern Bureau. King described PrEP as “another tool in the tool box” for patients who want to mitigate the risk of contracting HIV. Truvada, King said, is a drug made by Gilead Sciences, Inc. and is widely prescribed in North America. Santiago said Truvada is prescribed for “high risk individuals” and must come with counseling from a health care provider. Care Resources, Inc., South Florida’s largest and oldest HIV/AIDS service organization, has endorsed PrEP as a treatment option. Before the panel discussion, young men drank mimosas poolside while others mingled inside the house. Those attending were asked

Valentine’s Day Charity Event To Benefit The Poverello Food Pantry

to complete a survey of questions of their sexual habits and HIV status. Panelists often cited statistics from various agencies, including the Centers for Disease Control, which has endorsed PrEP as a prevention method against HIV, but King stated believing statistics is another story. “All of these statistics are based on self reporting and self reporting is notoriously unreliable,” King said. King was also skeptical of the counseling requirement that comes with a Truvada prescription. “In the real world, people do not go to frequent counseling,” King said. As an alternative to Truvada, Williams stated Stribild is also being prescribed for PrEP purposes. The Food and Drug Administration has yet to approve Stribild as a treatment for PrEP and Santiago noted the risk for recreational drug users taking Stribild as well. “The problem with Stribild is since it has a booster that can create problems for someone who uses crystal meth or ecstasy,” Santiago said. “It can increase the drug’s effect and become pretty dangerous.” The discussion went on for almost two hours and jumped from topics such as adherence, to access to self-esteem. Williams said there are clinical studies on-going examining if less than a once-a-day dose of Truvada will still be as effective. Early results point in that direction. “This is a backup plan,” Williams said of PrEP. “This should not be taken as a primary method of preventing HIV.” Williams also said there is a whole “laundry list” of diseases one could catch that PrEP is not able to prevent. Martin, who is HIV negative, stressed the importance of getting tested regularly and to take greater control of safe sex practices. “Whenever you are having sex you have to do what works for you,” Martin said. “But at the same time you have to be comfortable enough to assert protection and get tested and be confident and comfortable enough to stand by that choice.”

“Come dance, donate and help replenish Poverello’s food pantry!” Date: Saturday February 14th, 2015 Time: 1:00 p.m. - 3:30 p.m. Doors open: 12:30. Includes classes at 1:00 & 2:30. Participants welcome to 1 or both. Cost: $12.00 (Suggested donation or non-perishable food items.) Location: The Pride Center at Equality Park 2040 N. Dixie Highway (Rear Building) Wilton Manors

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“Classes filling fast. Call to guarantee your place!” To register call: 954-561-3663 Ext. 122

Poverello Thrift Store Valentine & Presidents Day Sale Saturday 2/14/15 through Monday 2/16/15.

(Items over $1.00)

SouthFloridaGayNews // SFGN.com // 2.11.2015 //

publisher`s editorial

Starting Over

LeBoy lights up Middle River

Norm Kent

norm.kent@sfgn.com

Greater Fort Lauderdale has a great new neighborhood bar that almost did not happen. It's there because its owner, Sean David, had a vision and would not be deterred or defeated. Le Boy, at 1243 Northeast 11th Avenue, is everything a friendly, local bar should be. Once it was a dirty little place by the railroad tracks, called The Depot. It's been closed for the past four years, but anyone driving by could have easily seen the large banner sign reading 'Bar for Rent.' But no one wanted to touch the place. Parking was lousy, it was too close to residences, and the location was unappealing. To boot, the place looked like crap. Here is where determination kicks in. Most people saw obstacles. Sean David saw opportunity. The owner of Johnny's on West Broward Boulevard, David saw that the boys' strip club model just was not working anymore. He was competing against the Internet, Grindr, Manhunt and every new gay social media app in an undeveloped and unattractive venue. He wanted to build a bar that had an upscale look with a neighborhood feel. He has.

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Still, there is always a story behind the story. When David announced he was moving a gay bar in, he diligently went about his business and acquired the necessary zoning licenses and building permits. He checked with city commissioner Dean Trantalis, whose district the bar was in, to make sure everything was kosher and up to code. It was, legally, right down to a 'grandfather' provision that overrode the impediment of the place being empty for four years. He was good to go- or so he thought. Unfortunately, David’s announcement was met with jeers, not cheers. Suddenly, the neighborhood association mobilized against him. Wait, they said: "we have been down this road before. We don't want drunks throwing up in our yards at night. We don't need hookers cruising the streets." You could almost envision opening night met by angry residents holding up protest signs while a TV crew from Channel 7 interviewed them. Then came the city, with its official letterheads. Wait, they said. "We think we made a mistake. We are revoking your permit. Seems that you are not zoned for this. Seems you are too close to another place serving wine." Wait, they said, maybe "you don't have enough parking spaces."

Sean David (left), with SFGN publisher Norm Kent.

They threatened to shut him down before he opened his doors. It was a spurious attempt to turn David away. But he would not be denied. A lot of people might have closed up shop and headed home. Who wants to take on city hall? Well, me- his lawyer. “Sue the bastards," I said. “They can't do that. We will kick their ass in court." That was probably bad advice. If we did that, we would probably still be waiting for a judge to give us a hearing instead of having Le Boy's patrons waiting in line by the patio for a drink. David, who is in the hospitality business after all, decided to work the crowd. The Israeli peacemaker in him emerged. "We will talk to the neighbors, the code inspectors. We will show them we are going to bring class, not ass, to the city." So sit down we did. Quietly, Sean demonstrated to the city and the Middle River neighborhood association his structural upgrades and modest modernization. He laid out his plans for shows, entertainers, and comedians. He promised valet parking and enhanced security. He built a coalition of cooperating partners, and with some cosmetic refurbishing, new mica bars, and a few coats of paint, he fulfilled his promises. The bar is open and everyone loves the place. Le Boy has a handsome staff that wears

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dress jeans and suspenders. Its outdoor patio serves charcoal grilled hot dogs and cold beers. Its indoor stage has featured a nationally known gay comedian, and next week a well known performer who appears weekly on the E! Channel from Vegas will be showcased live on stage. Valet parking provides safety and prevents congestion. Electra has already livened the place up, appearing as Lucille Ball one night and Elton John the next. Plans for a charity event to promote Fort Lauderdale Pride in Holiday Park are under way. Next week, I will probably be asked to appear in the Thursday night 'Hot Bod' contest. Until that happens though, no one is protesting anything anymore. Everyone is happily pouring drinks. Neighbors have a gay bar they can walk to. Fear, foolish fear, made city officials worry about what this little neighborhood bar might become. Those same ungrounded fears made the city nearly create specious obstacles that would have been legally unsupportable and led to a contentious court battle. Instead, a business worked in partnership with a group of neighbors and residents. The bureaucracy backed off, and the results are a blooming and bountiful enterprise. It's a message we should all take to heart.

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SouthFloridaGayNews // SFGN.com // 2.11.2015 //

column off the wall

LIFE, LIBERTY AND THE PURSUIT OF A PEACEFUL END

Pier Angelo

This past week the Supreme Court of Canada struck down the ban on providing a doctor-assisted death. The groundbreaking decision from the country's top court sweeps away the existing law and gives Parliament a year to draft new legislation that recognizes the right of clearly consenting adults who are enduring intolerable irremediable suffering — physical or mental — to seek medical help ending their lives. The judgment, which is unsigned to reflect the unanimous institutional weight of the court, says the current ban infringes on life, liberty and security of person provisions in Section 7 of the Charter of Rights and Freedoms. Once again Canada proves to be light years ahead of the U.S. where a Gallup opinion poll released a couple of years ago found that the most divisive social issue was doctor- assisted suicide. Forty-five percent said they found it morally acceptable and 48 percent said the opposite, and this, in a survey that included questions on gay marriage and cloning. Assisted suicide is the common term for actions by which an individual helps another person voluntarily bring about their own death. "Assistance" may mean providing one with the means (drugs or equipment) to end their own lives, but may extend to other actions. The current waves of global public debate have been ongoing for decades, centering on legal, bioethical, religious, and moral conceptions of "suicide" and a personal right to death. Legally speaking, the practice may be legal, illegal, or undecided depending on the culture or jurisdiction. The American godfather of assisted suicide, Dr. Jack Kevorkian, died June 3, 2011. Many described him as a crank and a publicity hog, and he was often referred to as "Dr. Death." But he was also a hero to a large number of the American people and in particular to those suffering slow and undignified deaths. Kevorkian's cause was the right of people with extremely painful illnesses to end their suffering in the only way possible. It took the courts five attempts to convict him. He did not care he had to spend eight years in jail, he believed it was his mission to push the issue to the forefront of public opinion and open a debate that, in time, will lead to the legalization of assisted suicide. It is frustrating watching the U.S.'s confounding of law with Christianity. We are more inclined to end lives by the indiscriminate proliferation of guns. We put Kevorkian in prison but let the NRA run wild. Here at home it is legal in Oregon, Washington, Vermont and Montana with some provisions. On Feb. 6, 1997 Charles Hall, a Florida man with AIDS, became the only American with the legal right to physician-assisted suicide when a Florida judge lifted the stay on a previous court ruling affirming his right to obtain such assistance from his doctor.

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Despite its strict Roman Catholic history, in May 1997, end to their pain and indignity, it is cruel and inhumane to Colombian courts allowed for the euthanasia of sick refuse their pleas. Compassion demands that we comply patients who requested to end their lives. In 2006, Belgium and cooperate. legalized euthanasia with certain regulations. In France a We certainly have that compassion toward our beloved new legislation was passed which states that when medicine pets when their time comes. Why not the same respect serves "no other purpose than the artificial support of life" and consideration, and love, for our friends and family they can be "suspended or not undertaken.” Euthanasia members? The dangers of legalizing assisted suicide cannot and assisted suicide were legalized in Luxemburg in April be dismissed, especially the threat of possible undue 2009, while in the Netherlands physician-assisted suicide pressure on old and sick people or the emergence of a social is legal under the same conditions as euthanasia since 2001. norm that would make it a routine or prescribed method of Switzerland has legislatively permitted assisted suicide dying. But at the same time, in a free country, it should be since 1942 an option. In some religious contexts, while a "suicide" is considered Furthermore, nobody's life should be dictated by a to be an offense made out of unknowing, confusion, or Church, a Government, or by a majority vote of the Supreme despair, assisted suicides are ostensibly actions made in Court. The issue requires no consensus. People should faith, with no expectation of incurred sin or such that would decide for themselves. It will still take us some time but less bar transcendence to an afterlife. In several denominations, now that Canada has taken the step. For the time being I am particularly the Catholic Church, suicides are considered going to check if I can border cross when “it's time.” a serious sin, and thus many Catholics oppose the practice of assisted suicide. Hinduism, on the other hand, accepts the right to die for those who are tormented by terminal diseases or those who have OFFICIANT no desire, ambition or no responsibilities remaining, • it allows death through the non-violent practice of fasting to the point of Relax and enjoy your personally starvation. designed wedding ceremony by The point is that Lowell, whose only concern is we ourselves have an obligation to relieve the your happiness. suffering of our fellow men and to respect their dignity. • There are thousands of people afflicted with #LOVEISLOVE excruciatingly painful and terminal conditions weddingsbylowell.com and diseases, that have left them permanently incapable of functioning 954-240-1944 in any dignified human @weddings by Lowell fashion, lying in hospitals beds every day. They can only look forward • to lives filled with more suffering, humiliation, and deterioration. When such PALM BEACH • BROWARD • DAD people beg for a merciful

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WEDDINGS BY LOWELL

SouthFloridaGayNews

column jesse’s journal

N O W

Bush 45?

C E R T I F I E D

LAW ENFORCEMENT

Jesse Monteagudo

On the day that the State of Florida celebrated its first same-sex marriages, former Governor John Ellis “Jeb” Bush realized that marriage equality was now the law of the land. “We live in a democracy, and regardless of our disagreements, we have to respect the rule of law,” Bush admitted in a statement he sent to the New York Times. “I hope that we can show respect for the good people on all sides of the gay and lesbian marriage issue - including couples making lifetime commitments to each other who are seeking greater legal protections and those of us who believe marriage is a sacrament and want to safeguard religious liberty.” Bush’s statement was interpreted by many to mean that the former Governor is a “moderate” on social issues, at least in comparison to other Republican presidential hopefuls. In fact, Bush’s views have not changed at all. The day before he released his “moderate” statement to the Times, Bush told the Miami Herald that marriage equality “ought be a local decision. I mean, a state decision. The state decided,” he added, referring to the 2008 election that placed a ban on same-sex marriage in the Florida State Constitution. “The people of the state decided. But it’s been overturned by the courts, I guess.” Delighted Log Cabin Republicans will point out that Bush has “evolved” on the issue of marriage equality, the way that Democratic politicians Barack Obama and Hillary Clinton “evolved.” But if you read Bush’s Times statement carefully, you will see that nothing has changed. (We don’t want “greater legal protections.” We want equal rights.) As in other issues, Bush tries to appear “moderate” to the voting majority while at the same time assuring the tea baggers and religious extremists who control the GOP primaries that he is really on their side. It is an interesting fact that every President of the United States (POTUS) since 1993 (all three of them) has daughters but no sons. This is probably a good idea. Presidential families with sons - like the Adamses, the Harrisons, or the Roosevelts - are likely to form political dynasties, while presidential families with daughters do not. (The Clintons might break that mold, with former First Lady Hillary Clinton and, later, her daughter Chelsea.) George H. W. Bush (Bush 41) started a political dynasty that led to George W. Bush (Bush 43). Do we want a Bush 45 (Jeb)? The Holy Roman Empire of the German Nation had elected emperors (chosen by electors) that eventually became hereditary in the Hapsburg

H I R I N G

family. Do we want the American empire to become virtually hereditary in the Bush family? I do not. The idea that the Republican Party can only elect a POTUS if there is a Bush on the ticket, while superstitious, seems to be confirmed by the facts: Bush 41 was Ronald Reagan’s Vice President before he himself became President. Then Bush lost his bid for re-election, leading to eight years of Bill Clinton before Bush 43 won (some say stole) the election of 2000. Except for Bush 41’s failed re-election bid, the only times the GOP lost presidential elections since 1980 was when there was no Bush on the ticket: in 1996, 2008 and 2012. (These were also the only times since 1976 that a Democrat carried Florida, but I digress.) Having won the Senate, the House of Representatives and most state governments, all that the Republicans need for total control is the Presidency, and Jeb Bush promises to deliver it to them. Like Hillary Clinton, Jeb Bush has been hemming and hawing about his presidential intentions. Lately, however, Bush has made it increasingly clear that he will run for President in 2016. He has the support of major Republican donors, which puts him ahead of the pack as far as money is concerned, and he also has the backing of the powerful Bush political machine. He delighted right-wing Cuban-Americans, a powerful bloc in the swing state of Florida, with his strong support of the Cuban embargo and his opposition to President Obama’s new relations with Cuba’s revolutionary government. Bush is married to a Mexican-American woman and speaks fluent Spanish, which is a plus to a GOP that desperately needs to win over Latinos. (The fact that GOP Senators Ted Cruz and Marco Rubio are both Cuban-Americans does not seem to help their own presidential aspirations) On January 6, Bush filed the paperwork to start a political action committee, Right to Rise, which will raise money for conservative candidates, Jeb Bush being one. Make no mistake, Jeb Bush is a conservative. In many ways, the former Florida Governor is more conservative than his father and his older brother, and even more conservative than failed GOP presidential candidates John McCain and Mitt Romney. Bush is only a “moderate” when you compare him to the right-wing extremists, the tea baggers and the religious zealots who have hijacked the Republican Party. LGBT Americans and our friends, of any party, should be careful about supporting such a man for the highest office in the land.

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.

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SouthFloridaGayNews // SFGN.com // 2.11.2015 //

column chamber chat

“Cruising for Business” By Jorge Richa

(Marketing & Programming Director; Miami-Dade Gay & Lesbian Chamber of Commerce (MDGLCC))

There recent passing of the law that allows for same sex marriages in Florida will for sure positively impact our local economy. Businesses, both gay and allied, are eager to offer their products and / or services to those who will soon join their loved ones in matrimony. Many wedding preparations are on their way and businesses are cruising full steam ahead in aiding these couples in their journey. The Miami-Dade Gay & Lesbian Chamber of Commerce (MDGLCC) is also Cruising for Business as it presents its Spotlight Mega-Mixer Networker on Wednesday, February 25 from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. on board the spectacular “Lady Windridge” yacht. Cocktails will be served courtesy of Bacardi & Grey Goose Vodka. Complimentary wine and food will also be served courtesy of our hosts Chamber Corporate member Windridge Yacht Charters. At this fun and social networker over 200 Chamber members, guests and the community at large will take leverage of the “Business Cards Bulletin Board” and Chamber Ambassadors will be present to answer inquiries and make introductions / connections. There will be a free drawing of great prizes courtesy of various chamber members, spinning by DJ Vertigo, and photographs taken by Juan Saco Mironoff of Miami-Gay-Blog.com.

The yacht will be docked behind the Hard Rock Cafe at Bayside Marketplace at 301 Biscayne Boulevard, Miami. From 6 p.m. – 8 p.m. the yacht will remain in dock and at 8 p.m. it will embark on a short cruise returning to the dock at 9 p.m. Admission for Chamber Members is only $10 and for Non-Chamber Members is $20. To RSVP for the “Spotlight Mega-Mixer” onboard the Lady Windridge Yacht or to learn more about the MDGLCC, please visit www.gaybizmiami.com or reach us at info@ gaybizmiami.com / 305-673-4440.

Spotlight MegaMixer Networker

February 25th 6:00 p.m. www.gaybizmiami.com

PHOTO: FACEBOOK

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SFGNâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Money I$$ue Nine Ways to Get Richer Tips for Retirement Socially Responsible Investing ...and more!

On Stands Feb. 18 local name, global coverage

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lifestyle tony`s talk

ON STANDS NOW! Check out

The Mirror

Winter 2015

WINTER 2015 • Vol. 3

‘Love is Love’

Issue 4

Fort Lauderdale’s Mass Wedding Goes On Despite Torrential Rain

Winter Arts Guide Editi GUIdE bEGINS ON PAGE 21

Photo: J.R. Davis

Tony Adams

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

HUNGARY FACES A HISTORIC STRUGGLE

themirrormag.com

Read more about Love is Love on pages 11 & 25.

Winter 22

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They say that rain on your wedding day means good luck. If that’s so, the 100 couples exchanging vows and rings in a joyful mass wedding ceremony, dubbed “Love is Love,” should enjoy decades of wedded bliss. The event took place at sunrise on Feb. 5 and was hosted by the Greater Fort Lauderdale Convention and Visitors Bureau. Torrential rain and high winds forced the ceremony off of the beach and into the welcoming and well-prepared W Hotel, a cosponsor of the event. The wedding featured 100 LGBT and straight couples from 18 states, Europe and South America. Even though they chose a wide variety of original outfits, they all had in common the special radiance and dazzling smiles seen only on the faces of couples about to marry. There were cheers and tears as an interdenominational group of local clergy pronounced the couples married. Reverend Dr. Durrell Watkins, senior minister of the Sunshine Cathedral, presided over the ceremony. At the final blessing, the newlyweds tossed beach balls overhead and the staff of the W rushed forward with champagne. The ceremony was meant to celebrate the recent legalization of same-sex marriage in Florida. In a show of welcome by the local business community, an array of gifts and specials was offered to the newlyweds. Jetblue had a table of gift-wrapped discounts for the couples. “We’re the ‘something blue’,” a representative explained, referring to the traditional requirement that a bride should always carry “something old, something new, something borrowed, something blue.” The wedding cakes and cupcakes were provided by Cooper City based Elite Cake Creations. The treats were both “something new” and delectable, demonstrating that while elsewhere in the U.S. some bakeries refuse to serve LGBT couples seeking wedding cake, here in South Florida, there are bakeries who SouthFloridaGayNews

will gladly help LGBT couples eat cake. Pop singer and former 'N Sync member Lance Bass spoke to the assembly as the official “Love is Love” ambassador. With him was his husband Michael Turchin. Their December 2014 wedding was televised later in the day on an E! special “Lance Loves Michael: The Lance Bass Wedding.” They became the first gay couple to wed on reality TV. Bass said that the couple is seeking a second home in Fort Lauderdale. Fort Lauderdale’s popular gay city councilman for the beach, Dean Trantalis, was introduced as “single.” In his welcoming words, he joked that he was indeed hoping to “pick up a stray” at the event. Bam Rung of Thailand and Donald Zeger of Fort Lauderdale, wearing brilliant scarlet shirts with fiery rose boutonnières, said they met on a Carnival Cruise (their employer) nine and a half years ago. They have an immigration interview scheduled and they are delighted that marriage equality will allow Bam Rung to establish legal residence in the U.S. with his husband. They got married in New York City on Sept. 19, 2014 never dreaming that marriage equality would come to Florida in the near future. They were one of the several married couples renewing their vows at the celebration. Wearing intricate ecru lace over black, Dawn and Nikkie Maddox from Denver, North Carolina, were among the more recent pairs, having been together for four years. Many of the couples had been together for decades. Though the successful event was boisterous, crowded and swarmed with paparazzi and bright TV lights, when the newlyweds turned to face each other for the exchange of vows and rings, their brimming eyes disclosed that they had stepped out of the public moment and into that private place that lovers share. The efforts of the Greater Fort Lauderdale Convention & Visitors Bureau made that moment possible and allowed the business community of South Florida to support it.

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SouthFloridaGayNews // SFGN.com // 2.11.2015 //

lifestyle music

All American Boy Visits Fort Lauderdale Steve Grand delights fans in Sunshine Cathedral performance

John McDonald

Steve Grand, the openly gay up and coming country music artist, performed last Saturday before a spirited audience at Fort Lauderdale’s Sunshine Cathedral. Grand, a fresh face on the music scene, played the piano and sang numbers (originals and covers) much to the delight of fans, a large number of whom were young men and teenage boys. “There are some kids here born in the 2000s,” said Grand in between songs. “I thought I was special because I was born in the Nineties.” Marcos Alexander, 15, came up from North Miami Beach to hear Grand’s show. He said he discovered Grand on the Internet, stumbling across his video “All American Boy” which currently has more than three million views on YouTube. The song and video deal with Grand’s same-sex attractions. “It’s about a straight best friend crush,” Alexander said. “And we all have had that one.” Grand opened his solo show with “All American Boy” on the piano, speaking afterwards to SFGN of his love for music. “I’ve just have always been into music,” Grand said. “It is something that has always spoken to me since I was five. It’s been a way that I felt I could be heard.” This was Grand’s second performance at Sunshine Cathedral, said Robert Griffin, executive minister at the Metropolitan Community Church on Fort Lauderdale’s south side. And the crowd eagerly responded as Grand, 25, covered Neil Young, Bruce Springsteen, Journey and Elton John.

“I listened to Neil Young a lot growing up,” Grand said. “I just love all of his records, especially ‘After The Gold Rush,’ … that’s a really underrated record.” The 5-foot-11, athletically built Grand posed for photographs with fans both before and after the show. His life is unpredictable now, much to the success of “All American Boy.” “I don’t know what my life is going to look like in six months,” Grand said. “I’m just taking it one day at a time.” Grand calls Chicago home now and said he was grateful for the impact of “All American Boy.” “It felt so rewarding that something I did resonated with so many people on such a deep level,” Grand said. “It was good for me.” A steady soldier of the equality movement, Grand has partnered with the Human Rights Campaign, GLSEN Respect Awards, Out and Equal Workplace Advocates, Anti-Violence Project and Chicago area Catholic Charities. His first full-length album is scheduled to be released this year. Visit SteveGrand.com for more information about the artist.

Photos by J.R. Davis

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lifestyle photojournalism

Marriage By The Sea

Fort Lauderdale hosts a mass wedding for couples in love

J. R. Davis

Read more about Love is Love on pages 11 & 22. soflagaynews //

SouthFloridaGayNews // SFGN.com // 2.11.2015 //

lifestyle history

HOMO HISTORY 101 BLACK HISTORY MONTH

Pier Angelo

Alvin Ailey (1931 –1989) was an African-American choreographer and activist who founded the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater in New York City. He is credited with popularizing modern dance and revolutionizing African-American participation in 20th-century concert dance. His company gained the nickname "Cultural Ambassador to the World" because of its extensive international touring.. In 1977, Ailey was awarded the Spingarn Medal from the NAACP He received the Kennedy Center Honors in 1988, just one year before his death. In 2014, President Barack Obama selected Ailey to be a posthumous recipient of the Presidential Medal of Freedom. William "Billy" Preston (1946 –2006) was an American musician whose work included R&B, rock, soul, funk and gospel. A virtuoso keyboardist, Preston was recognized as a top session musician in the 1960s, during which he backed artists such as Little Richard, Sam Cooke, Ray Charles and the Beatles. In addition, Preston co-wrote "You Are So Beautiful,” which became a number 5 hit for Joe Cocker. Preston continued to record and perform with other artists, notably George Harrison after the Beatles' break-up, and Eric Clapton, and he played keyboards for the Rolling Stones on many of the group's albums and tours during the 1970s. Alongside Tony Sheridan, Preston was the only other musician to be credited on a Beatles recording: the artists on the number-one hit "Get Back" are given as "The Beatles with Billy Preston.” Since Sheridan was labeled alongside "The Beat Brothers,” Preston is, strictly speaking, the only artist to be labeled explicitly with "The Beatles.” Preston was openly gay but did not speak publicly about his sexuality.

Little Richard is a recording artist, songwriter, and musician. He has been an inﬂuential ﬁgure for more than six decades. Mojo magazine described him as a "bisexual alien."

Little Richard (December 5, 1932), is an American recording artist, songwriter, and musician. He has been an influential figure in popular music and culture for more than six decades. His most celebrated work dates from the mid-1950s where his dynamic music and charismatic showmanship laid the foundation for rock and roll. His music also had a pivotal impact on the formation of other popular music genres, including soul and funk. He influenced numerous singers and musicians across musical genres from rock to rap. In 1984, while he noted that he felt homosexuality was "unnatural" and "contagious,” he would tell Charles White that he was "omnisexual" after he was asked about his sex life. In 1995, he told Penthouse that he always knew he was gay. In 2007, Mojo magazine described him as a "bisexual alien.” Felicia Pearson (May 18, 1980) is an American actress,

author, and rapper. She is best known for playing a character of the same name, on “The Wire.” She wrote a memoir titled “Grace After Midnight” detailing her troubled childhood and time spent in prison for second-degree murder. "The Wire" aired on HBO between 2002 and 2008, the Baltimore-based actress was plucked out of a club for a role she fit perfectly — a butch lesbian criminal with a strong accent and a hard look.

Billie Holiday (1915 –1959) It is widely known that the Jazz singer had affairs with women. Bessie Smith (1894 –1937) This blues singer was also known to have had love affairs with women.

Ru Paul (November 17, 1960), This legendary drag performer became famous in the 1990s as an actress and singer. Sheryl Swoopes (March 25, 1971) was the first woman to be signed in the WNBA when it was created. She has won three Olympic Gold medals and is a three-time WNBA MVP. In October 2005, with her announcement that she was gay, Swoopes became one of the highest profile athletes in a team sport to do so publicly. Her partner is former basketball player and Houston Comets assistant coach, Alisa Scott. 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.

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SouthFloridaGayNews

business spotlight

Selzer & Weiss

(954) 368-9100

C ELEBRATES 30 TH A NNIVERSARY

Natalya Jones

South Florida law firm Selzer & Weiss is celebrating their 30th anniversary this year. The firm is known for practicing two specific areas of law probate, estate planning, trust administration/litigation and personal injury. As of now, Selzer & Weiss is striving to grow its personal injury division to its full capability. Attorney Keith Strunan had been at the firm since about April 2012, when he was still an intern and was concurrently in law

school. After getting his license in May of 2013, he began practicing at Selzer & Weiss. “With respect to personal injury, our greatest distinction is the personal attention given to all of our clients. Many PI firms are mills that rely on a high volume of (frequently low merit) cases, the result of which is the clients often don't even speak to or meet their actual attorney,” Strunan said. “They're given a client number, assigned to support staff for case management, and don't hear from their attorney's office for months. At Selzer & Weiss, all of our clients' needs are handled by myself, Jeffrey Selzer, and our support staff as a team.” Strunan also called the firm a “highly collaborative work environment” where the legal team collaborates to better know their clients and cases. He stresses that doing so allows the team to construct the best claim and arguments possible for clients. “We have an open door policy with our clients and maintain proactive open communication with them throughout the process,” Strunan added. “We consistently get outstanding results.” The firm will not be hosting an event for their 30th anniversary. However, they will be hosting a Pride Center Founder's Circle event at their office on March 19. Selzer & Weiss is located at 1515 NE 26th Street in Fort Lauderdale.

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SouthFloridaGayNews // SFGN.com // 2.11.2015 //

lifestyle books

'This is a Book for Parents of Gay Kids' by Dannielle Owens-Reid & Kristin Russo

Terri Schlichenmeyer

$18.95 / $22.95 Canada 240 pages c.2014, Chronicle Books

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soflagaynews //

You didn’t know what to expect. When your child told you he’s gay, it came as a bit of a shock even though you kinda knew already. As he was telling you, though, he was nervous, you were nervous, but the conversation went well. You love your gay son or daughter– but you have about a thousand questions. So maybe the next thing to do is to read “This is a Book for Parents of Gay Kids” by Dannielle OwensReid & Kristin Russo. Who would’ve thought that two little words – “I’m gay” – would cause so much confusion? That’s what you’ve felt ever since your son or daughter came out to you and that’s “completely normal.” Working through this journey will undoubtedly be something new – but then again, aren’t there always a lot of firsts in parenthood? It’s possible that this may be new to your child, too. He may’ve only recently understood that he’s gay and talking about it “can sometimes be scary!” Patience is key here, as is having a home environment that’s accepting. And yes, you can gently (and calmly) ask respectful questions; you are, in fact, encouraged to do so. It’s the only way you can understand your child better. Knowing that your child is gay is not license to broadcast it, however. Telling others largely depends on many factors and situations, and it’s really up the feelings of you and your child. Again, communication is important so you’re both clear on who to tell, and when. It’s also important to understand that this is a process for loved ones, as well as for you, and that you’ll need to “give some room” for their responses. Expect changes in your child, but remember that she’s still the same kid. Know your child’s rights in schools, restrooms, and bullying issues. Talk to your child about sex, and be firm on house rules – especially for

SouthFloridaGayNews

sleepovers. Keep a close eye out for any signs of depression or suicide. Be patient; strive for understanding, and talk, talk, talk. And when it comes to your faith, remember this: “Nearly every religion hinges on love” and you love your child. Isn’t that what matters? Maybe you knew. Or maybe the news had you totally gob smacked. Either way, you’ve got questions and “This is a Book for Parents of Gay Kids” has answers. Springing from the website that authors Dannielle Owens-Reid & Kristin Russo created (everyoneisgay.com), this book offers succinct advice, sensible comfort, and a glossary of terms that the authors encourage parents to know. I liked that it’s comprehensive and not overwritten, and that it’s browse-able and not necessarily meant for cover-to-cover reading. That’s helpful, because the questions you may ask now are “very different from the questions you may have a year from now.” If your child has just come out – or if you suspect she might – then this book may be the best information you can have. Find “This is a Book for Parents of Gay Kids” and you’ll know more of what to expect.

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SouthFloridaGayNews // SFGN.com // 2.11.2015 //

outeats

Special Advertising Section

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With a hand-crafted cocktail paired with a 28-day aged Certified Angus Beef steak, the only time you’ll be disappointed during your J. Mark’s experience is when you don’t save room for dessert. Whether you sit in the dining room, grab a seat in the lounge, or opt for a patio spot, J. Mark’s in Fort Lauderdale looks and feels comfortable and welcoming. Start off your meal with one of the restaurant’s signature drinks like the J. Mark’s Mojito — Malibu and Bacardi rums, fresh muddled lime, mint, simple syrup and house-made limeade in a sugarrimmed glass. Be sure to begin your meal with one of J. Mark’s signature appetizers, including guest favorites like the Jamaican grilled wings — six jumbo chicken wings tossed in a mix of Jamaican spices and grilled, not fried, to a crispy golden perfection. You can also enjoy the calamari — lightly battered and fried, and served with not one but three house-made sauces: Marinara, basil pesto and garlic aioli. While J. Mark’s has many greats, it’s hard to top the succulent steaks. Certified Angus Beef ensures the highest quality of meat, with everything from aged prime rib to the classic New York strip. But don’t ignore the Hawaiian rib-eye — marinated in a soy pineapple marinade for 48 hours. Fish lovers can rejoice as well! With a fresh catch featured every day, look out for a miso-glazed Chilean sea bass on the weekends or opt for the lemon-herb swordfish — lightly seasoned and grilled to perfection.

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// 2.11.2015 // SFGN.com //

soflagaynews //

SouthFloridaGayNews

Don’t forget to make time for the happy hour, 2-6 p.m. daily, featuring halfoff specialty cocktails like the J. Mark’s Mojito. During weekend brunch, sip on $3 Bloody Marys and Mimosas. While you’re sure to fill up from appetizers and entrees, be sure to save room for dessert. J. Mark’s serves up the best key lime pie you’ll ever taste, made in-house with their own graham crackerpecan crust. For the indulger, try the red velvet cake, made by local Fort Lauderdale bakery Sweeter Days Bake Shop: Four layers of cake in between thick spreads of cream cheese frosting. The 7-layer homemade carrot cake is also a big guest favorite. For private parties and intimate events, inquire about the large outdoor patio — great for everything from business meetings to birthdays. With J. Mark’s extensive cocktail menu, signature steaks, and delicious desserts, there’s nothing stopping you from your new favorite dining experience.

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VisitHollywoodFL.org soflagaynews //

SouthFloridaGayNews // SFGN.com // 2.11.2015 //

F O R

T H E

J.W. Arnold

SFGNITES

jw@prdconline.com

THU ART

W E E K

O F

2/12

F E B R U A R Y

1 2

F E B R U A R Y

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2 0 1 4

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

Travel back in time to a world of knights and knaves at the Florida Renaissance Festival at Quiet Waters Park in Deerﬁeld Beach weekends through March 15.

Tonight is the opening reception for Art Explosion 2015, beginning at 6:30 p.m. at ArtServe, 1330 Sunrise Blvd. in Fort Lauderdale. Art Explosion is the largest annual exhibition of LGBT art and features a variety of works by local artists including Jeff Larson, Steve Shires, Mark Caldaron, Angel Giraldo Rodriguez and Frank Papandrea. The reception will include live performances, refreshments by Courtyard Café and a silent auction. A $10 donation at the door is suggested and proceeds benefit ArtsUnited programs. For more information, go to ArtsUnited.org.

FRI

DANCE

2/13

Miami City Ballet premieres Program III: “Passion and Grace” tonight at 8 p.m. at the Arsht Center in Miami. The varied program includes Richard Alston’s “Carmen,” a flamenco-fueled, modernist interpretation of the classic Iberian love story; Twyla Tharp’s “Sweet Fields;” and George Balanchine’s “Allegro Brillante,” set to the music of Tchaikovsky. Performances also on Saturday at 8 p.m. and Sunday at 2 p.m. Tickets start at $25 at MiamiCityBallet.org. The program will be repeated at the Kravis Center, Feb. 27 – March 1, and the Broward Center, March 20 – 22.

SAT

NIGHTLIFE

2/14 SUN

It’s Valentine’s Day and if you’re not celebrating with a special someone, maybe you’ll meet him tonight at le Boy, 1243 NE 11th Ave. in Fort Lauderdale. Tonight, celebrity choreographer Glenn Douglas Packard and dancer Joel, stars of E! Entertainment Television’s “Men of the Strip” will be appearing, live in the flesh, at the new club, which features some of South Florida’s sexiest dancers. DJ Miik will be in the booth and be sure to stick around for the star search contest at 11 p.m. You just might wind up on TV! For more information, go to LeBoyTonight.com.

Submitted photo.

// 2.11.2015 // SFGN.com //

CONCERT

2/15 MON

FESTIVAL

More than 80 talented tri-county high school musicians will take the Amaturo Theater stage at the Broward Center tonight at 7 p.m. to perform with the Youth Pride Band. The honor band, formed to help combat anti-gay bullying through music, is a program of the South Florida Pride Wind Ensemble, the region’s LGBT and allies’ concert band and has grown considerably over the past four years. Internationally acclaimed composer Frank Ticheli will conduct the program. Tickets are $30 and are available at BrowardCenter.org. soflagaynews //

2/16 TUE

Here’s a fantastic staycation for the long President’s Day holiday weekend: Visit the Florida Renaissance Festival at Quiet Waters Park in Deerfield Beach. Time travel is the theme for the weekend and on Monday, guests are invited to join the cosplay. The village opens itself up to time travelling pioneers, aliens, Browncoats, Federations and Empires, and yes, even superheroes and anime characters. Take in a performance on one of the 10 stages and don’t forget to chow down on a giant turkey leg, too. Admission is $21 for adults. For more information, go to Ren-Fest.com.

SouthFloridaGayNews

CINEMA

2/17

There’s always something happening at the Pride Center at Equality Park, 2040 N. Dixie Highway in Wilton Manors. Tonight at 7 p.m., the Women with Pride host a screening of “Appropriate Behavior,” the story of an Iranian-American bisexual Brooklynite who must pick up the pieces after breaking up with her girlfriend. A discussion will follow the movie in the main hall of the center’s Schubert building. The screening is free. For more information about the film and other events, go to PrideCenterFlorida.org.

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SouthFloridaGayNews // SFGN.com // 2.11.2015 //

a&e film

CHEYENNE JACKSON

'Six Dance Lessons in Six Weeks'

Gary M. Kramer In “Six Dance Lessons in Six Weeks,” the film adaptation of Richard Alfieri’s play, out actor Cheyenne Jackson plays gay dance instructor Michael Minetti. As he comes week after week to teach the uptight Mrs. Lily Harrison (Gena Rowlands), the lessons are more about tolerance than tango. Jackson spoke with SFGN about making the film, being comfortable in his own skin, and getting his ass grabbed. Where and how did you learn to dance? I guess from my mom. I just did it. I started working on Broadway in 2002 and you hit the ground running. I did a tap show and I had to take lessons. I faked it ‘til I made it. This role was different because I had to talk about the dances. How did you get involved in Six Dance Lessons? Were you familiar with the play? No I wasn’t. It was never on my radar. I had to do some quick homework. Your character Michael tries to be charming, but gets off on the wrong foot with Lily Harrison. How do you become comfortable in your own skin? As an actor, it’s so up and down. You can be in situations where you are trying too hard, or telling a joke that’s too blue. But you find your way. It took me a while to get there. I had an advantage because I started late. I had perspective. What makes me confident is my family, my husband, my dog, and my parents. Acting isn’t the end of the world, the be all and end all, but I stopped hanging so much on things. It’s a joy to do it and make a living at it, but it’s not everything. Do you feel pressure to carry a ﬁlm like “Six Dance Lessons” rather than be in a supporting role? I’d be lying if I didn’t feel pressure. But I go into it to make every moment real. I made this with an acting legend. I had to be confident and make choices and stand by them and verbally spar with her.

Cheyenne Jackson Brings Broadway to South Florida for Valentine’s Day J.W. Arnold Multi-talented singer and actor Cheyenne Jackson will return to his Broadway roots with a special Valentine’s Day performance on Feb. 14 at the Parker Playhouse. Guest host Seth Rudetsky, a regular contributor on Sirius XM’s Broadway and OutQ channels, will join Jackson for the evening of conversation and music, and yes, a little bit of showbiz gossip. “I’ve known Seth for a decade, so it’s going to be fun,” promised Jackson. “With Seth, you can plan what you’re going to do, but he’s so unpredictable.” The openly gay singer is preparing a program of Broadway and pop songs, and will revisit the early

// 2.11.2015 // SFGN.com //

What can you say about working with the incomparable Gena Rowlands? Luckily she’s gracious and generous. When you start any job you are nervous and excited. I needed to be believable calling her a big stupid cow within five minutes of meeting her, so I had to get my worship out of the way. She was willing to share secrets and techniques, and talk about Cassavetes and that was the best thing I got out of this film--my relationship with her.

There is a scene in which Michael ‘comes out’ to Lily. Can you talk about your coming out and any bias you’ve had from someone with tolerance issues? Every single one of us judges all the time. We see someone and size them up: this is who they are, what they do, and where they are coming from. Michael’s arrogance is that he’s doing the same thing toward Lily-she’s a white woman, a pastor’s wife. They learn about themselves through each other. In contrast, you have some broad comic scenes with another client, Irene (Jackie Weaver), who grabs your ass. How are you with people being handsy? Because of the roles I’ve done--the Elvis show--it was trial by fire with women at the stage door feeling carte blanche to just grab me. People see me as approachable so they pinch and grab. But you’re married now. What can you say about your current romantic situation? I am the happiest I’ve ever been. I love being married. It works. Life is about ups and downs, and I’m in a great place right now. The ﬁlm imparts lessons that are more about honesty and integrity, aging, sexuality and loneliness. What are your thoughts on those topics? I think the same as most people. I’m on the road a lot, and tour a lot and managing time and having enough time for my family, and trying to do it all. Do you have a new CD coming out soon? What can you say about that? I’m working on a second album. I’m writing it right now. Hopefully later this year.

years of his career in New York City. Audiences could be serenaded by numbers from his hit shows, including “Damn Yankees,” “Xanadu,” “Thoroughly Modern Millie,” and “All Shook Up,” or ballads from his album, “The Power of Two,” recorded with five-time Grammy winner Michael Feinstein. “It’s going to be a surprise for all of us,” Jackson said, “kind of like ‘Actors Studio’ meets a recital.” The newlywed recently concluded a sold out run at the Café Carlyle in New York City and will revisit many of the cabaret standards that had audiences returning night after night, as well as romantic ballads appropriate for the couples at the Parker Playhouse— and his own husband.

soflagaynews //

SouthFloridaGayNews

Tickets are $51.50 to $126.50 at ParkerPlayhouse.org. The Stonewall National Museum and Archives is also hosting a gala reception with Jackson, including open bar, heavy hors d’oeuvres and silent auction before the performance at 6 p.m. Tickets for the fundraiser are $100 or $200 including VIP seating at StonewallNationalMuseum.org.

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soflagaynews //

SouthFloridaGayNews // SFGN.com // 2.11.2015 //

a&e music

Young Conductor Makes His Musical Mark J.W. Arnold

Brett Karlin. Submitted photo.

At 28, artistic director Brett Karlin is among the youngest musicians in the Master Chorale of South Florida, a semi-professional chorus that performs the great standards of the repertoire in Miami-Dade, Broward and Palm Beach Counties. But don’t let his age deceive you; he is a serious—and equally accomplished— musician, who is also in his first year as the chorus master of the Florida Grand Opera and an instructor at the Miami Choral Academy. “It works for me and against me,” he said of his relative youth. “In the beginning stages of anyone’s career, there is a little trepidation. Do I know what I’m doing? But, it also works to my advantage being the youngest guy in the room,” especially when most of the 90 singers are at least 40 - 45 years old, many with professional musical careers ranging from 20 - 50 years. He cites the opportunity to offer “new perspectives from the way we’ve always done things. That’s the most dangerous phrase for any organization, particularly in the arts.” Karlin auditioned for the position after teaching at Hillsborough Community College in Tampa, where he doubled the college choir. Education remains one of his professional priorities, especially on the faculty at the Miami Choral Academy, which introduces music to some of the city’s most underprivileged youth. “I love to get young people excited by music,” Karlin said, “but there is nothing like conducting a professional chorus.” In two seasons, Karlin has expanded the chorale’s repertoire to include pop works— the Chorale will accompany tenor Andrea Bocelli at Hard Rock Live on Valentine’s Day weekend—as well as an incredibly popular “Messiah” sing-a-long that attracted nearly 800 participants last December.

// 2.11.2015 // SFGN.com //

soflagaynews //

SouthFloridaGayNews

“Master Chorale is a world-class ensemble of stellar musicians, but we are also South Florida’s voice. It’s made up of our audience members’ friends and families, their realtors and their doctors. Together, we make the experience that is the Master Chorale,” he explained. Tim Peterson, a chorale board member, thinks Karlin is a natural talent, “Clearly he is such a gifted musician and when you see him conduct, you recognize it immediately. I just hope we can keep him.” When he’s not conducting or teaching, Karlin has many of the same interests as other 20-somethings: The Sailboat Bend resident loves to kayak around the Middle River and spot manatees, runs regularly, reads scifi and fantasy novels and also enjoys an occasional glass of wine at the Naked Grape. (“In my ongoing quest for husband material,” he says.) Oh, and he likes to tune and repair harpsichords, too, maybe not the most common hobby for most gay 28-year-olds. If the last two years are any indication, Karlin, who discovered the classics as a boy in Boca Raton, will be making music in South Florida for a long time to come. The Master Chorale will perform with Andrea Bocelli on Thursday, Feb. 12, Saturday, Feb. 14 and Sunday, Feb. 15 at Hard Rock Live at the Seminole Paradise at Hard Rock Hotel and Casino in Hollywood. Tickets are available at MyHRL.com. The chorale will also sing Carl Orff’s classic oratorio, “Carmina Burana,” Friday, Feb. 20 at First Presbyterian Church in Pompano Beach, Saturday, Feb. 21 at Trinity Episcopal Cathedral in Miami, and Sunday, Feb. 22 at the Wold Performing Arts Center on the campus of Lynn University in Boca Raton. For tickets and more information, go to MasterChoraleOfSouthFlorida.com.

Rack ‘em Up Would you like your business to be a distribution center for SFGN? We have acquired 50 new racks to house all our productions. Contact Norm.Kent@sfgn.com if you want to cleanly and neatly display our publications. SFG

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SouthFloridaGayNews // SFGN.com // 2.11.2015 //

business profiles

Sound Bite Q

Norm Kent

Welcome to Sound Bite Q, the column that thanks advertisers who support SFGN. We invite you to support them, because without their outreach to us, we would not be here to reach out to you. More importantly, local papers only survive in our busy world because we are all connected to each other. For me, this column does more than encourage you to patronize one of SFGN’s advertisers. It lets you know a little more about our friends and enables you to feel a little more comfortable using their services with the limited dollars you have.

norm.kent@sfgn.com

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// 2.11.2015 // SFGN.com //

soflagaynews //

SouthFloridaGayNews

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SouthFloridaGayNews // SFGN.com // 2.11.2015 //

a&e theatre

Shock Pop Comic Con Features Icons from

Cult Classics & Horror Films Submitted photos.

Andrea Dulanto

This Valentine’s Day weekend, celebrate your love for the wonderfully weird with Shock Pop Comic Con at the Fort Lauderdale Convention Center from Friday, Feb. 13 to Sunday, Feb. 15. On Saturday, filmmaker and author John Waters performs his updated one-man show This Filthy World: Filthier and Dirtier followed by an autograph session for his book, “Carsick: John Waters Hitchhikes Across America.” Other Shock Pop media guests include Elvira, Naomi Grossman (Pepper in “American Horror Story”), Rutanya Alda (Carol Ann in “Mommie Dearest”), as well as actors from “Friday the 13th”, “A Nightmare on Elm Street 2,” “Demons,” “Gremlins,” and “Karate Kid.” Events are also scheduled with actors from “Sons of Anarchy,” “Dr. Who,” “Buffy the Vampire Slayer,” “Angel,” and “The Brady Bunch.” Shock Pop organizer Mark Heller is a selfdescribed “lifelong comic collector and pop culture enthusiast” who shared in an email to SFGN that he has been attending and participating in comic cons since the mid eighties. One of his motivations for creating Shock Pop was “to address issues with homophobia, racism, and bullying” and “to create an inclusive fan experience.” “It was my hope to not only create this huge convention with a broad spectrum of pop culture and comic guests but also to break down barriers within the fan community, and establish a safe haven for everyone to enjoy pop culture.” Shock Pop commemorates the 30th

If you go to Shock Pop Comic Con: When:

Friday, February 13 2 p.m. -10 p.m. Saturday, February 14 10 a.m. – 8 p.m. Sunday, February 15 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Where:

Fort Lauderdale Convention Center 1950 Eisenhower Blvd Fort Lauderdale, FL. 33316

anniversary of “A Nightmare on Elm Street 2,” a film with “a unique history in the LGBT community,” Heller noted. This chapter of the Freddy Krueger franchise was viewed as controversial throughout the decades due to its gay subtext. In an emailed response to SFGN, Mark Patton who played the lead character, Jesse Walsh, observed that the film’s “subject matter resounds well with today’s audience although some men and women are still terrified of anyone stepping outside very tightly controlled gender models.” “As I am playing the part traditionally played by a woman, many people have trouble with the film and at times have become quite hateful,” Patton said. However, he loves the film and the fans. Patton is optimistic about the current representation of LGBT characters and storylines in Hollywood. “I am happy to see that the times have changed and continue to change.” Shock Pop also features Bob Schreck, editor-in-chief at Legendary Comics. In 2001, Schreck was an editor with DC Comics when he introduced Terry Berg, a gay character in the Green Lantern series. Schreck responded to an SFGN email on his view of LGBT characters in comic books. “Our society has become more open and understanding of the LGBT community…so the inclusion and acceptance of these characters will only grow with time,” Schreck said. “I hope they continue to become less and less of an event and are eventually viewed as natural and commonplace as our community.”

How much: Friday Only Ticket • $30 Saturday Only Ticket • $30 Sunday Only Ticket • $25 Weekend Pass • $60 Children 12 and Under when accompanied by a paying adult. (Limit 2 per paying Adult) • Free John Waters This Filthy World Saturday Feb 14 • $75 Elvira Photo Op, Saturday February 14 only • $55 Friday The 13th Ultimate Fan Experience Friday Feb 13 • $300

For a complete schedule of events and to purchase tickets, visit ShockPopComicCon.com. For more information, contact: shockpopcc@gmail.com

// 2.11.2015 // SFGN.com //

soflagaynews //

SouthFloridaGayNews

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You don’t have to be able to read music. Just be able to carry a tune in a handbasket. Join us Tuesdays, 7:30 pm at St. Mark’s Episcopal School, in the Music Suite behind the gymnasium. 1750 East Oakland Park Blvd., just east of 15th Ave. 954.832.0060 www.theftlgmc.org www.facebook.com/theftlgmc soflagaynews //

And for anyone who’s looking for a good time, save the date for the Chorus’s spring show:

Lounge-array 8 p.m., Saturday, March 14 at the Museum of Art, Fort Lauderdale

Special Thanks to our media sponsor:

SouthFloridaGayNews // SFGN.com // 2.11.2015 //

Lauderdale. Setti performs Italian classics as well as A Night with Harry Connick, Jr. newer top 40 hits. Tickets $39 to $59. Call 954-462- Feb. 11 at 8 p.m. at the Kravis Center for the 0222 or visit BrowardCenter.org. Performing Arts, 701 Okeechobee Blvd. in West Palm Beach. The Grammy Award winner is a wiz on the * Serenade on Broadway stage and in front of the camera in his music and Feb. 14 at 8 p.m. at the Coral Springs Center for the acting career. Tickets $39 and up. Call 561-832-7469 Arts, 2855 Coral Springs Drive in Coral Springs. or visit Kravis.org. Todd Wagner leads a night of Broadway favorites. Tickets $39.22 to $48.82. Call 954-344-5990 or visit Gospel Gala ft. The Clark Sisters Christiana Lilly CoralSpringsCenterfortheArts.com. Feb. 12 at 7 p.m. at the Kravis Center for the Calendar@SFGN.com Performing Arts, 701 Okeechobee Blvd. in West Palm * Buddy: The Buddy Holly Story Beach. The four sisters are joined by an opening Feb. 14 at 6:30 p.m. at the Coral Springs Center for the act by the Port Salerno Church of God Celebration Arts, 2855 Coral Springs Drive in Coral Springs. The Choir. Tickets $15 to $55. Call 561-832-7469 or visit jukebox musical tells the story of the iconic Holly. Kravis.org. Chris Brown with Trey Songz ft. Tyga Tickets $37.10 to $68.90. Call 954-344-5990 or visit Feb. 12 at 7:30 p.m. at the BB&T Center, One Panther CoralSpringsCenterfortheArts.com. * An Intimate Evening with Livingston Parkway in Sunrise. The three heavy hitters of hip Taylor hop and R&B tunes perform together in the Between * Dancing Pros the Sheets Tour. Tickets $55.50 to $121.50. Call 954- Feb. 15 at 7 p.m. at the Broward Center for the Feb. 13 at 8 p.m. at the Delray Beach Center for the 835-7000 or visit TheBBTCenter.com. Performing Arts, 201 SW Fifth Ave. in Fort Arts, 51 N. Swinton Ave. in Delray Beach. In support Lauderdale. The professional dancers from “So You of his 14th album, Taylor tours with his songs of Aaron Neville Think You Can Dance” and “Dancing With the Stars” country, folk, and bluegrass. Tickets $49 to $65. Call Feb. 12 at 8 p.m. at the Broward Center for the come together on stage, along with Karina Smirnoff, 561-243-7922 or visit DelrayArts.org. Performing Arts, 201 SW Fifth Ave. in Fort Lauderdale. Alan Thicke and Edyta Sliwinska. Tickets $39 to $69. * Les Ballets Trockadero de Monte Carlo The performer is recognized by the Louisiana Music Call 954-462-0222 or visit BrowardCenter.org. Feb. 13 at 8 p.m. at the Kravis Center for the Hall of Fame and has performed solo and with the Performing Arts, 701 Okeechobee Blvd. in West Palm Neville Brothers. Tickets $37.50 to $67.50. Call 954- * Youth Pride Band of South Florida 462-0222 or visit BrowardCenter.org. Feb. 15 at 7 p.m. at the Broward Center for the Beach. An all-male ballet company with dancers Performing Arts, 201 SW Fifth Ave. in Fort squeezed into tutus and pointe shoes. Tickets $20 to Andrea Bocelli Lauderdale. Hosted by the South Florida Pride Wind $59. Call 561-832-7469 or visit Kravis.org. Feb. 12, 14 and 15 at the Hard Rock Live, One Ensemble, the youngsters will perform songs from Seminole Way in Hollywood. The king of romance, Frank Ticheli. Tickets $30. Call 954-462-0222 or * Tony Bennett the Italian singer comes to South Florida almost visit BrowardCenter.org. Feb. 14 at 8 p.m. at the Kravis Center for the every year in time for a Valentine’s Day. $204 to $554. Performing Arts, 701 Okeechobee Blvd. in West Visit SeminoleHardRockHollywood.com Palm Beach. After getting his break from Bob Hope * Gordon Lightfoot Feb. 15 at 8 p.m. at Parker Playhouse, 707 NE Eighth in 1949, he’s wowed the world for decades with his Cosi Fan Tutte St. in Fort Lauderdale. For decades the singer and music. Tickets $36 and up. Call 561-832-7469 or visit Feb. 12 and 14 at 7:30 p.m. at the the Broward Center guitarist has entranced listeners with “The Wreck Kravis.org. for the Performing Arts, 201 SW Fifth Ave. in Fort of the Edmund Fitzgerald,” “Rainy Day People” and Lauderdale. In Mozart’s comic opera, two military other favorites. Tickets $37.50 to $57.50. Call 954- * Black Girl officers test the faithfulness of their fiancees by 462-0222 or visit ParkerPlayhouse.com. Feb. 14 and 15 at 7:30 p.m. at the Kravis Center for the dressing in disguise. Tickets $21 to $200. Call 954Performing Arts, 701 Okeechobee Blvd. in West Palm 462-0222 or visit BrowardCenter.org. * Dennis DeYoung: The Music of Styx Beach. The image of black women is explored by the with Rock Symphony Camille A. Brown & Dancers company. Tickets $30. Tony n’ Tina’s Wedding Feb. 17 at 7:30 p.m. at the Broward Center for Call 561-832-7469 or visit Kravis.org. Feb. 12 to 22 at the Broward Center for the Performing the Performing Arts, 201 SW Fifth Ave. in Fort Arts, 201 SW Fifth Ave. in Fort Lauderdale. The Lauderdale. DeYoung, lead singer of the iconic band, * A Celebration of Marvin Hamlisch madness of an Italian American wedding comes to is joined by a six-piece band and full orchestra to Feb. 15 at 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. at the Kravis Center the stage in New York’s longest running comedy -- perform hits from the ‘70s and ‘80s band. Tickets $39 for the Performing Arts, 701 Okeechobee Blvd. in you’re a guest at the fete too, with dinner, cake, and a to $135. Call 954-462-0222 or visit BrowardCenter. West Palm Beach. Broadway stars come together to champagne toast! Tickets $65. Call 954-462-0222 or org. perform the music of Marvin Hamlisch. Tickets $28. visit BrowardCenter.org. Call 561-832-7469 or visit Kravis.org.

Datebook

Theater

broward county

* Rex Smith: Confessions of a Teen Idol

* Alice Cooper

Feb. 18 at 8 p.m. at the Hard Rock Live, One Seminole Feb. 13 at 7:30 p.m. at the Coral Springs Center for the Way in Hollywood. With a career spanning decades, Arts, 2855 Coral Springs Drive in Coral Springs. Smith the rocker is known for hits like “School’s Out.” Tickets presents a musical autobiography. Call 954-344-5990 $34 to $54. Visit SeminoleHardRockHollywood.com or visit CoralSpringsCenterfortheArts.com.

* An Evening with Arturo Sandoval

Feb. 13 at 7:45 p.m. at the Broward Center for the Performing Arts, 201 SW Fifth Ave. in Fort Lauderdale. Cuban American music is celebrated by the trumpeter. Tickets $50. Call 954-462-0222 or visit BrowardCenter.org.

* Michael Amante

* Diana Ross

Feb. 19 at 8 p.m. at the Hard Rock Live, One Seminole Way in Hollywood. Ross has enchanted us with her vocals since the ‘70s with “Ain’t No Mountain High Enough.” Tickets $65 to $85. Visit SeminoleHardRockHollywood.com

Octopus

palm beach county

// 2.11.2015 // SFGN.com //

soflagaynews //

Feb. 17 to March 15 at the Kravis Center for the Performing Arts, 701 Okeechobee Blvd. in West Palm Beach. A musical performance of Jewish identity of famous Americans. Tickets $26 to $46. Call 561-8327469 or visit Kravis.org.

* Yesterday and Today: The Interactive Beatles Experience

Feb. 18 at 8 p.m. at the Delray Beach Center for the Arts, 51 N. Swinton Ave. in Delray Beach. Hailing from Chicago, the pianist has been tickling the ivories since he was a child. Tickets $25. Call 561-243-7922 or visit DelrayArts.org.

Les Liaisons Dangereuses

Through March 1 at the Don & Ann Brown Theatre, 201 Clematis St. in West Palm Beach. Set in Paris just before the French Revolution, two ex-lovers trapse throughout the city causing havoc on other people’s lives for their own amusement. Tickets $62. Call 561514-4042 or visit PalmBeachDramaworks.org.

miami-dade county New World School of the Arts Symphony Orchestra

Feb. 11 at 7:30 p.m. at the Arsht Center, 1300 Biscayne Blvd. in Miami. The orchestra performs works by Wagner, Barber, and Prokofiev. Tickets $20. Call 305949-6722 or visit ArshtCenter.org.

Bonnie & Clyde

Feb. 12 to 15 at the Aventura Arts & Cultural Center, 3385 NE 188th St. in Aventura. The legendary tale of two lovers and their historic robbery and killing spree during the Great Depression. Tickets $40 and $45. Call 800-745-3000 or visit AventuraCenter.org.

* Passion and Grace

Feb. 13 to 15 at the Arsht Center, 1300 Biscayne Blvd. in Miami. The Miami City Ballet performs excerpts from “Carmen,” “Sweet Fields,” and “Allegro Brillante.” Tickets $20 to $97. Call 305-949-6722 or visit ArshtCenter.org.

* 9 Mile Music Festival

Feb. 14 from 12:30 to 11 p.m. at the Miami-Dade County Fairgrounds, 10901 Coral Way in Miami. In its 22nd year, the festival celebrating reggae music and Caribbean culture will be chock full of acts, including Stephen, Damien, Julian, and Jo Mersa Marley, Soja, * Danish National Symphony Orchestra and other big names. Tickets $52.83 and four cans of Feb. 15 at 8 p.m. at the Kravis Center for the food. Visit 9milemusicfestival.com. Performing Arts, 701 Okeechobee Blvd. in West Palm Beach. The orchestra pays tribute to the works * Tony Bennett of composers Sibelius and Nielsen. Tickets $30 to Feb. 13 at 8 p.m. at the Arsht Center, 1300 Biscayne Blvd. in Miami. After getting his break from Bob Hope $105. Call 561-832-7469 or visit Kravis.org. in 1949, he’s wowed the world for decades with his music. He’s joined in this special performance with Other People’s Money Through Feb. 15 at the Delray Beach Playhouse, 950 Antonia Bennett. Tickets $66 to $176. Call 305-949NW Ninth St. in Delray Beach. Lawrence Garfinkle 6722 or visit ArshtCenter.org. decides to save himself during the 2005 housing bubble, even if it means taking other people * Danish National Symphony Orchestra down. Tickets $30. Call 561-272-1281, ext. or visit Feb. 14 at 8 p.m. at the Arsht Center, 1300 Biscayne Blvd. in Miami. The orchestra pays tribute to the DelrayBeachPlayhouse.com. works of composers Sibelius and Nielsen. Tickets $30 * Yesterday and Today: The Interactive to $105. Call 305-949-6722 or visit ArshtCenter.org.

Through March 1 at Empire Stage, 1140 N. Flagler Road in Fort Lauderdale. Island City Stage presents the play of a younger gay couple that tries to keep up with an older, more experienced crowd during a night that challenges the core of their relationship. Beatles Experience Contains nudity. Tickets $30. Call 954-519-2533 or Feb. 17 at 8 p.m. at the Delray Beach Center for the Arts, 51 N. Swinton Ave. in Delray Beach. Everyone visit IslandCityStage.org. has a favorite Beatles song, and in this unique concert, the audience directs the show. Tickets $39. * Cheyenne Jackson Call 561-243-7922 or visit DelrayArts.org. Feb. 14 at 6 p.m. Parker Playhouse, 707 NE Eighth St. in Fort Lauderdale. The performer, who has sold out Carnegie Hall twice, is joined by pianist Rudetsky The Improvised Shakespeare Company Shenandoah in this gala fundraiser for the Stonewall National Feb. 11 at 7:30 p.m. at the Kravis Center for the Through March 1 at the Delray Square Performing Museum & Archives. Tickets $100. Call 954-462- Performing Arts, 701 Okeechobee Blvd. in West Palm Arts, 4809 W. Atlantic Ave. in Delray Beach. A 0222 or visit ParkerPlayhouse.com. Beach. Working with suggestions from the audience, Virginia farmer struggles to keep his family together the theater company puts together a Shakespearean and alive during the throes of the Civil War in the * Matteo Setti play on the spot. Tickets $28. Call 561-832-7469 or American answer to “Fiddler on the Roof.” Tickets Feb. 14 at 8 p.m. at the Broward Center for the visit Kravis.org. $37.50. Call 561-880-0319 or visit DelraySquareArts. Performing Arts, 201 SW Fifth Ave. in Fort com Feb. 14 at 7:30 p.m. at the Coral Springs Center for the Arts, 2855 Coral Springs Drive in Coral Springs. Spend your Valentine’s Day with this handsome tenor, making waves in Broadway and mainstream. Call 954-344-5990 or visit CoralSpringsCenterfortheArts. com.

* Stars of David

SouthFloridaGayNews

* Your Valentine Date

Feb. 14 at 6 p.m. at the South Miami-Dade Cultural Arts Center, 10950 SW 211st St. in Cutler Bay. The Miami Symphony Orchestra performs works by Prokofiev, Bernstein, and Marquez. Tickets $22 to $66. Call 786-573-5300 or visit SMDAC.org.

* The Improvised Shakespeare Company

Feb. 14 at 7:30 and 9:30 p.m. at the South Miami-Dade Cultural Arts Center, 10950 SW 211st St. in Cutler Bay. Shakespeare comes to life with the suggestions from the audience -- how do you stack up against the Bard? Tickets $15. Call 786-573-5300 or visit SMDAC.org.

* Denotes New Listing

and The City of Aventura present

Bonnie & Clyde “This feels like a Broadway production. More important, it looks and sounds like one.” – Rod Hagwood, SouthFlorida.com

Feb 12 - 15

Photo Credit: Gemma Bramham

RENT

“A rock musical following a year in the life of a small group of impoverished artists.”

April 30 - May 3 Tickets at aventuracenter.org Ticketmaster 877.311.7469 Groups 954.660.6307

#aventuracenter

All programs, artists, dates and times are subject to change.

Let’s talk about a contingency basis.

www.kenkeechllaw.com soflagaynews //

The hiring of a lawyer is an important decision that should not be based solely upon advertisments. Before you decide, ask the lawyer to send you free written information about the lawyers qualifications and experience.

SouthFloridaGayNews // SFGN.com // 2.11.2015 //

Datebook

Community Christiana Lilly Calendar@SFGN.com

broward county

* Art Talk with Hank Willis Thomas

Feb. 14 at 2 p.m. at the Museum of Art Fort Lauderdale, One E. Las Olas Blvd. in Fort Lauderdale. The artist will discuss how photography and issues of race and identity intersect in pop culture and advertising. Free with museum admission. RSVP to moareservations@moafl.org or call 954-262-0204.

* Dog Bowl

Feb. 15 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at T.Y. (Topeekeegee Yugnee) Park, 3300 N. Park Road in Hollywood. A special day for dog breeds of all kinds! Being out your furry friend for games, contests, a raffle, and pet vendors. Park admission is $1.50 per human. Call 954-646-3786 or email Info@BoxerFriends.org.

* Retro Disco Tea Dance

Feb. 15 from 4 to 8 p.m. at the New River, 540 SE Fifth Ave. in Fort Lauderdale. An evening on the water with host Kitty Meow, DJ Robbie Leslie, and starring Mia Patricyk. Tickets $30 and up. Visit GayTeaCruiseFL.org.

* “Appropriate Behavior”

Feb. 17 at 7 p.m. at the Pride Center, 2040 N. Dixie Highway in Wilton Manors. A screening of the film about an Iranian-American, bisexual woman in Brooklyn whose life is turned upside down after a break up with her girlfriend. Free. Call 954-4639005, ext. 108 or visit PrideCenterFlorida.org.

* “Out in the Dark”

Feb. 19 at 7 p.m. at the Stonewall National Museum & Archives, 1300 E. Sunrise Blvd. in Fort Lauderdale. Nimer is a Palestinian student in the West Bank who falls in love with an Israeli lawyer, Roy, one night in Tel Aviv. Free. Call 954-763-8565 or visit StonewallMuseum.org.

Black Art

Through Feb. 28 at the Pride Center, 2040 N. Dixie Highway in Wilton Manors. Celebrate Black History Month with an art exhibit, with a special reception on Feb. 12 from 7 to 9 p.m. for Black Gay Pride South Florida Day. Free. Call 954-463-9005 or visit PrideCenterFlorida.org. From Under the Mattress to the Museum Wall

Through March 8 at the Stonewall National Museum - Wilton Manors Gallery, 2157 Wilton Drive in Wilton Manors. “Stroke” and collections from the Leslie-Lohman Museum of Gay and Lesbian Art in New York City. Free. Call 954-763-8565 or visit Stonewall-Museum.org.

* Renaissance Festival

Through March 16 at Quiet Waters Park, 401 S. Powerline Road in Deerfield Beach. Take a trip back in time to the days of gypsies, knights, damsels in distress, jesters, and faeries with a special theme each weekend. Tickets $21. Call 954-776-1642 or visit Ren-Fest.com.

Personal Best: Overcoming Labels to Find the Real Me

Overcome the label of HIV/AIDS with different discussion topics every week, such as body image, disclosure, self esteem and more. Call 954-630-1655 or visit S-Men.org.

// 2.11.2015 // SFGN.com //

GayWrites

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

Movie Night

Fourth Mondays at 7 p.m. the Pride Center, 2040 N. Dixie Highway in Wilton Manors. Enjoy a movie and snacks every month with friends. Call 954-3539155 or visit PrideCenterFlorida.org.

Open Mic Tuesdays

Fourth Tuesdays at 7:30 p.m. at ArtServe, 1350 E. Sunrise Blvd. in Fort Lauderdale. The first of the monthly series, artists of all kinds are invited to showcase their work on the fourth Tuesday of the month. Tickets $5. Call 954-462-8190, email information@artserve.org, or visit ArtServe.org.

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 Group

Advantage

Referral

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. Contact Ken Stolar at Kenneth.Stolar@sci-usa.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. Love in the air at Holy Angels Catholic Community in Wilton Manors. On Sunday, February 15th at 11:00 AM the church will be hosting a Mass Wedding and Renewal of Wedding Vows during their Sunday Service. All couples are welcome to attend, and there is no charge. The ceremony will be followed by refreshments. Come celebrate marriage equality and all our loving couples. Holy Angels is located at 2917 NE 6th Avenue, Wilton Manors, FL 33334, and we can be reached at 954-633-2987. www.holyangelsfl.org holyangelsfl@gmail.com

palm beach county The Five Stages of Andrew Brawley

Feb. 11 at 5 p.m. at Compass GLCC, 201 N. Dixie Highway in Lake Worth. Former Compass youth group member, Shaun David Hutchinson, will be reviewing and signing copies of his book “The Five Stages of Andrew Brawley.” Free. Call 561-533-9699 or email events@compassglcc.com.

* Michael Reagan Lecture

Feb. 12 at 2 p.m. at the Delray Beach Center for the Arts, 51 N. Swinton Ave. in Delray Beach. The eldest son of the late President Ronald Reagan will talk about his public service, philanthropy, and continuing the conservative American vision. Tickets $30 and $45. Call 561-243-7922 or visit DelrayArts.org soflagaynews //

* Guardians of Society

Feb. 12 from 5 to 7 p.m. at the Griffin Gallery of Ancient Art, 608 Banyan Trail in Boca Raton. The opening of the exhibit showcasing art from the Ivory Coast and Mali, including a Senufo wooden bird sculpture. The exhibit runs through March 11. Free. Call 561-994-0811 or visit GriffinGallery.net

PinkSlip - Feelin’ Groovy: The Life and Sounds of Simon & Garfunkel Feb. 12 from 7 to 8:30 p.m. at FAU’s Rosenthal Complex, 5353 Parkside Drive in Jupiter. Learn more about the band as well as sing along to live music. Tickets $25 members, $35 nonmembers, an extra $5 at the door. Hosted by FAU’s Jupiter Lifelong Learning Society. Call 561-799-8547.

* One Billion Rising

Feb. 14 from 2 to 3:15 p.m. at the Lake Worth Cultural Plaza, 414 Lake Ave. in Lake Worth. Empty Closet Women’s Theater is bringing the revolution to South Florida to end violence against women, with a peaceful protest and a production of “The Vagina Monologues” at Compass GLCC. Visit Facebook.com/VDayLakeWorth.

Coming Into Fashion: A Century of Photography at Conde Nast

Through Feb. 15 at the Norton Museum of Art, 1451 S. Olive Ave. in West Palm Beach. From the publishing house that prints famed magazines Vogue, Glamour, W, and Vanity Fair are 150 images from 80 of the world’s best fashion photographers. Admission $12. Call 561-832-5196 or visit Norton. org.

* Truman’s Presidency and World War II at 70

Feb. 18 at 3:30 p.m. at FAU’s Student Union, 777 Glades Road in Boca Raton. David McCullough will lecture on the 70th anniversary of the end of World War II and President Truman’s role in American history. McCullough is the author of “Truman,” “John Adams, “1776” and “The Greater Journey: American in Paris.” Tickets $35. Call 1-800-5649539 or visit FAUevents.

Afterlife: Tombs Ancient Egypt

and

Treasures

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.

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miami-dade county

* Fine Art Auctions Miami

Feb. 12 to 16 at SPACEBY3 in Miami. Street art is the focus of this annual art auction and exhibit, including works by Banksy, Keith Haring, Shepard Fairey and other artists. Visit FAAMiami.com.

* Sex and the Animals

Feb. 14 at 8:30 p.m. at Zoo Miami, 12400 SW 152nd St. in Miami. The zoo’s popular Ron Magill will discuss love in the animal kingdom after a wine and cheese reception. Tickets $35 or VIP $85. Visit ZooMiami.org.

#101GayWeddings

Feb. 21 at 3:30 p.m. at The James Royal Palm, 1545 Collins Ave. in Miami Beach. Be a part of 101 samesex couples celebrating their wedding during the South Beach Wine & Food Festival, with a cocktail reception, champagne toast by Moet, and a specially made cake by celebrity chef Duff Goldman. Participate in the social media campaign to be a part of it! Tweet to @ChefArtSmith or visit SOBEFest.com.

* Being Nicer

Feb. 22 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Miami Beach Botanical Gardens, 2000 Convention Center Drive in Miami Beach. Learn about being nicer to yourself, your body, those you love, and the planet with Rigoberto Ng, a nutritional consultant.Tickets $30. Visit UnityCoalition.org

key west Aqua Idol

Tuesdays from 6:30 to 8 p.m. at Aqua Key West, 711 Duval St. in Key West. Support your local artists and vote for your favorite! Benefits Waterfront Playhouse. Call 305-294-0555 or visit AquaKeyWest.com.

Hot Naked Hump Days

Wednesdays from 5 to 8 p.m. at the Island House, 1129 Fleming St. in Key West. Relax in the middle of the week with two-for-one drinks, free shots, videos and music, giveaways, and naked boys at the pool. Call 305-294-6284 or visit IslandHouseKeyWest. com

Gay Key West Trolley Tours

Saturdays at 4 p.m. meeting at 628 Duval St. See the gay side of Key West on this trolley tour. Tickets $25. Call 800-535-7797 or visit GayKeyWestFL.com.

* Denotes New Listing

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SFGN Classiﬁed$ To place a Classiﬁed Ad, call Cindy Curtis at 954.530.4970 or visit SFGN.com

assistance

home & garden

home care

POOL SERVICE Mention this ad and receive your ﬁrst month

furniture

MATTRESSES & FURNITURE FOR SALE - Mattress Set: King $200, Queen $150, Full $130, Twin $100; 7 Piece Bedroom set: Q/F $549 includes mattress & box. Call Chris at 954-465-6498 www.bedsbestbargain.com

life coach

FREE!

COACH BILL FOR LIFE

some restrictions apply

Holistic Health, Wellness & Spiritual Coach

CERTIFIED HYPNOTIST Holistic Life and Nutrition Coach

Serving Broward Since 1999

Call for a free estimate: 954-367-7007 Web: www.skimmerspools.com Email: skimmerspoolservice@gmail.com

attorneys

Contact us for your free in-home evaluation today Phone: 561-685-5254 Email: gratitudehomecare@gmail.com http://gratitudehomecare.yolasite.com

home improvement PHANTOM SCREENS - Allows full ventilation. Maintains décor and view. Expands your living space. Protects against UV rays and insects. Call Sydney Levit @305931-5399 slevit@aol.com

licensed massage

Personal Trainer Spiritual Life Coach and Minister Reiki/Energy/Chakra Healer Couples/Relationship Coach Addiction Coach

954.641.8315 • WWW.COACHBILLFORLIFE.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.

cleaning services CLEAN IT RIGHT! The best cleaning for your buck. 1BD $60, 2BD $70, 3BD $80 and up. Excellent rates & references. 10 years in business. Serving Broward, North Miami-Dade & S. Palm Beach. Call Manny 954560-4443

electrician

Place an ad in SFGN’s Classiﬁeds

954.530.4970 home care

HARRY’S ELECTRIC RESIDENTIAL & COMMERCIAL - Additions, renovations, service upgrades, breaker panels,FPL undergrounds, code violations, A/C wiring, ceiling fans, recessed, security & landscaping, lighting, pools, pumps, Jacuzzis, water heaters, FREE PHONE ESTIMATES 954-522-3357 Lic & Ins. www. harryelectrician.com

HOME WATCH

help wanted - full time

Peace of mind while you are away

CITY OF WILTON MANORS - FIRE CHIEF / EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT COORDINATOR - Under executive direction, the position performs highly responsible administrative and supervisory work involving the overall management of the City’s ﬁre services contract, in-house ﬁre inspections and plan review, and emergency management operations. For a full position description and application information, visit www.wiltonamanors.com and follow the CAREERS link.

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Professional

Property Management

Peter D. Petrucci Licensed - Bonded - Insured Highly Trained and Experienced Since 1987

"I personally watch over your home"

954-522-3310 pdpHomeWatch@gmail.com

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

moving / storage

B & M MOVING AND CLEANING We do moving, cleaning, trash removal. Also available for your needs:Packing, storage,upholstery and carpet cleaning. We do both commercial and residential. We move local and/or long distance. Broward:754-244-2033 Dade: 305-812-3217 pbusigo@yahoo.com 10% off if you mention this ad and storage ﬁrst month free when you sign agreement.

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

pets/supplies

professional services THIRD GENERATION PAINTING: Quality work by an experienced, reliable professional. Fully insured, free estimates, excellent references. Painting, plastering, wallpaper removal, color coordinating and more. Call Steve at 954-804-6026 or email twilopainter@aol.com

rentals fort lauderdale BEAUTIFUL, UPDATED 2/1 NEAR WILTON MANORS Everything new in this 2 bedroom apartment near Wilton Manors. New ﬂooring, new hurricane proof windows & door, new AC,new kitchen & bathroom.New laundry facilities. Assigned parking space. Small dogs under 25 lbs.$1300 a month.Contact Tommy Forcella, Wolfe Real Estate Group 954-632-5100.

rentals wilton manors

"FILL THE VACANCY RATES" Sunday - Thursday. Need a last minute room? Take advantage of our $89 dollar rates at the NEW Calypso Inn, Wilton Manors. Not good for reservations. Good for one night only. Valid major credit card required. Phone Wes Leigh at 954.605.3561 to see if there is a vacancy.

spiritual

piano lessons

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

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.

1801 NW 1st Ct Boca Raton, FL 33432

561-395-7765 Ask for John (“Curly”)

real estate - other

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

vacation rentals

DAYTONA BEACH Beach side, elegant 1929 Historic Spanish Mansion, private walled pool area. four blocks to beach. Near boardwalk, shops, bars and restaurants 386-248-2020. www. thevillabb.com soflagaynews //

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