2/25/15 V6i8 by South Florida Gay News

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February 25, 2015 // vol. 6 // issue 8

BLACK ACTIVISM

SFGN celebrates local black heroes and national allies PAGES 20-21 Rajindra Narinesingh

• Winter Party

PAGE 22-23

• Alan Turing

PAGE 26

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

Palm Beach Scientists Make HIV Breakthrough

A scientific study out of Jupiter, Fla. details how a molecule has been engineered to block the Human Immunodeficiency Virus. Tests were conducted on four rhesus monkeys with results published in the Journal of Nature. “This innovation research holds promise

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HUNGARY FACES A HISTORIC STRUGGLE

SEX POSITIVE CULTURE CHALLENGES ETHICS

‘FIRST COMES LOVE’ PHOTO FEATURE Kristina Grant Inﬁniti

ON STANDS NOW!

Check out

The Mirror

Winter 2015

Transgender Community Rallies in Miami Hundreds of people came together for a candlelight vigil at the Torch of Friendship Monument in Miami last week to raise awareness of the recent spike in the number of murders of transgender people. The death of 46-year-old Kristina Grant Infiniti, a Miami resident, is the sixth reported death of a trans woman

WINTER 2015 • Vol. 3 Issue

this year in what the National Coalition of Anti-Violence Programs is calling an “alarming epidemic.” On Feb. 15, Miami Police found Grant Infiniti, formerly Gomez Reinwald, unresponsive at her home in the 2000 block of Southwest 58th Court.

CPAC bans Log Cabin Republicans The Conservative Political Action Committee has banned the Log Cabin Republicans from sponsorship opportunities at this year’s CPAC Conference. The conference is organized by the American Conservative Union, whose tactics in changing sponsorship

for moving us toward two important goals: achieving long-term protection from HIV infection and putting HIV into sustained remission in chronically infected people,” said Anthony Fauci, director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases.

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rules have moved LCR National Executive Director Gregory T. Angelo to state: “The only conclusion that can be made is that the organizers of CPAC do not feel MEMBER gay people can be conservative.” The conference is Feb. 25-28 in Washington, D.C.

Winter Arts Guide Edition GUIdE bEGINS ON PAGE 21

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‘FIRST COMES LOVE’ PHOTO FEATURE SEX POSITIVE CULTURE CHALLENGES ETHICS HUNGARY FACES A HISTORIC STRUGGLE themirrormag.com

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FEBRUARY 25, 2015 • VOLUME 6 • ISSUE 8 2520 N. DIXIE HIGHWAY • WILTON MANORS, FL 33305 PHONE: 954-530-4970 FAX: 954-530-7943

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Covers: Local Black Heroes and National Allies are honored by SFGN. Alan Turing movie inspires Oscar winner speech. 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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Oscar Winning Writer Reveals Troubled Teen Life John McDonald In accepting his Academy Award for best adapted screenplay, Graham Moore brought the audience to their feet with a personal story of his suicide attempt. “When I was 16 years old I tried to kill myself because I felt weird and I felt different and I felt like I did not belong,” Moore said, his voice trembling with the disclosure. Moore, 33, won an Oscar for his work on “The Imitation Game,” a historical feature film of British computer pioneer Alan Turning and the Bletchley Park codebreakers. Turing, whose work at Bletchley Park helped defeat the Nazis and propel the Allies to victory in World War II, was eventually prosecuted for homosexual acts and lost his security clearance. Being gay in Britain, at that time, was a crime. Turing committed suicide in 1954 at the age of 41. From the stage inside the Dolby Theatre, Graham encouraged those who are different to not despair. “I would like for this moment to be for that kid out there who feels like she’s weird or

Graham Moore.

she’s different or she doesn’t fit in anywhere,” Graham said. “Yes you do. I promise you do. You do. Stay weird. Stay different. And then, when it’s your turn and you are standing on the stage, please pass the same message to the next person who comes along.” The audience at the 87th annual awards show gave Graham a standing ovation for his speech. Backstage, Graham told reporters he was “not gay” and had suffered bouts of depression.

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News Briefs

Photo: user Stefan, Wikipedia.

Chef Art Smith Hosts Mass Gay Wedding On Miami Beach (AP) With a mix of elegance and irreverence, only celebrity chef Art Smith could round up his famous chef buddies, a sea of white orchids and a drag queen DJ to pull off a wedding ceremony Saturday for more than two dozen same-sex couples on Miami Beach. Smith, a Florida native and former chef to Oprah Winfrey and Gov. Bob Graham, is revered by fellow chefs and those in the gay and lesbian community, known as the chef with a big Southern accent and an even bigger heart. When Smith heard that Florida judges had lifted the state's ban on same-sex marriage last month, he set out to throw an over the top-wedding officiated by chef Guy Fieri, with a stunning cake from Duff Goldman, and a dance party spun by local star Chi Chi LaRue. He invited the first 101 couples to participate in the free wedding,

noting he chose the number after the movie “101 Dalmatians” to shame Florida Attorney General Pam Bondi, who has ardently fought to keep same-sex marriage from becoming legal. “We have our own Cruella De Vil, Pam Bondi. She was determined that she was going to prevent equality from coming to Florida,” Smith said. Many couples said they became emotional when Diners, DriveIns and Dives host Fieri, a chef with spiky hair, tattoos and a love for Southern BBQ, officiated the ceremony in honor of his late sister who was a lesbian. The couples were showered with white rose petals thrown from the balconies and then treated to a feast of fried chicken, grilled lamb, crab-stuffed avocadoes, empanadas and a seven-tier gold and silver cake from Goldman, star of Food Network's reality show Ace of Cakes.

ederal lawsuit ﬁled against Georgia DOC on behalf of transgender inmate

Photo: Michael Cary/CNN.

Attorney General Argues Gay Couple's Marriage Is Void Texas

(AP) As a newlywed lesbian couple in Texas celebrate defying a statewide ban on gay marriage, the state's Republican attorney general is preparing to tell a court Friday why it should rule their nuptials invalid. The marriage license given to two Austin women - who succeeded by seizing on a ruling this week in an unrelated estate squabble - thrust Texas back into the national spotlight over gay marriage but didn't send same-sex couples rushing to courthouses. The Texas Supreme Court acted quickly after an appeal from Attorney General Ken Paxton to block other potential gay marriages, making the nuptials somewhat bittersweet for Suzanne Bryant and Sarah Goodfriend. Friends and Democratic lawmakers toasted Bryant and Goodfriend, who have been together 30 years and have two teenage daughters, at a downtown Austin bar Tuesday night after county officials obeyed a judicial order to wed the couple. Goodfriend, 58, has ovarian cancer. A state district judge raised the "severity and uncertainty" of her condition in granting the women permission to marry, sending the couple scrambling through a Travis County clerk building in case state Republican leaders got wind and intervened. Within hours, the Texas Supreme Court had blocked other gay couples from getting married under similar special exceptions but didn't address the women's marriage, which Paxton said he considered void.

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(GA Voice) The Southern Poverty Law Center has filed a federal lawsuit against the Georgia Department of Corrections on behalf of a transgender inmate who attorneys allege has been denied medical treatment and has been sexually assaulted by other inmates at her men’s prison. The SPLC says prison officials have denied Ashley Diamond the female hormones she had been receiving for the previous 17 years since she entered the prison three years ago for a nonviolent offense. The attorneys also claim prison officials have ignored pleas for Diamond’s safety and that she has been the victim of multiple sexual assaults by prisoners. “Ashley Diamond was not sentenced to sexual assault and a gender change when she was imprisoned for a parole violation,” said Chinyere Ezie, SPLC staff attorney, in a press release.

The lawsuit also claims that Valdosta State Prison official referred to Diamond as a “he-she-thing” in front of inmates and prison personnel. When Diamond filed a complaint, it was allegedly rejected by prison system officials on the grounds that Diamond was “clearly a man, not a woman.” The lawsuit, filed in the U.S. District Court for the Middle District of Georgia, demands that prison officials provide safe placement and hormone therapy. The suit also seeks an end to prison policies that deny transgender inmates such medical treatment.

City Council Updates Dallas Deﬁnition Of Spouse

“Tragically, the state of Georgia is forcing Ashley to transition from female to male by denying her the protection and medical care she needs. Transgender inmates like Ashley have a right to be kept safe and to receive medically necessary treatment, including hormones.” The attorneys claim Diamond’s facial hair has started growing and her body is reverting to a masculine state, and that the issue has led her to attempt suicide and self-castration. “It is amazing how a minor brush with the law has turned into a death sentence,” Diamond said. “This is about more than just hormone treatment. This is about gross human rights violations. Three years of torture is enough.”

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(Dallas Voice) The Dallas City Council amended the definition of “spouse” at its Feb. 18 meeting for the purpose of bringing the Employee Retirement Fund into compliance with IRS regulations that went into effect on Jan. 1. Three council members — Vonciel Jones Hill, Sheffie Kadane and Rick Callahan — voted against the change. The IRS ruled pension plans that allow pre-tax contributions had to offer equal benefits by the beginning of the year, but could begin the process of changing bylaws, statutes or other legal documents at the first board meeting of the new year. Dallas council members Lee Kleinman and Carolyn Davis sit on the ERF pension board. The change of wording was a compromise worked out after a five-hour meeting the previous week. Previous wording read “Spouse means the husband or wife of a member.” New wording reads, “Spouse means the person to whom the member, inactive member or retiree is married, as evidenced by the last marriage certificate or declaration of common-law marriage on file with the retirement fund and verified by the fund to be valid in the jurisdiction in which the marriage was celebrated.”

news briefs

Continued

Accused of Coercing Sexual Favors Ex-deputy, From Immigrants, Enters Guilty Plea Broward Sheriff's OfďŹ ce

Rafael Olmeda Sun Sentinel

No one was looking forward to putting Jonathan Bleiweiss on trial, lawyers admitted Thursday. Prosecutors felt their case was crippled by reluctant victims and witnesses who could no longer be found. The defense was worried that Bleiweiss would be tried seven times, risking a life sentence each time. Bleiweiss, 34, the former Broward Sheriff's deputy accused of intimidating undocumented immigrants into performing sex acts with him, cut a deal sending him to prison for just five years, without having the stain of a sex-offender status following him the rest of his life. The deal was entered Thursday morning. Bleiweiss pleaded guilty to 14 counts of armed false imprisonment, 15 counts of battery and four counts of stalking. He will also serve 10 years of probation and have to undergo a psycho-sexual evaluation, Broward Circuit Judge Michael Robinson ordered. Dressed in a black suit and white sneakers, he was handcuffed, fingerprinted and sent to jail. Bleiweiss was arrested in 2009 after reports circulated among immigrants who are not in the country legally. A deputy since 2002, Bleiweiss was named Employee of the Year in his Oakland Park district in 2008. In Broward's gay community, he was known as someone who would take a stand against discrimination in the agency. But his accusers, about 20 men who were in the country illegally, told investigators Bleiweiss preyed on their vulnerability, fondling them while patting them down during traffic stops. According to court records, they told investigators that Bleiweiss would ask for their phone numbers, and they felt powerless to refuse. The incidents began in August 2008. A few months later, Bleiweiss' picture was posted in an Oakland Park soup kitchen, with a warning to stay away from him. The Sheriff's Office removed him from road patrol in July 2009. He was arrested the following month. Victims and charges were added over the

course of several weeks. In all, he faced more than 70 charges, many accusing him of sexual battery. A conviction on all charges in any one of the cases would have sent him to prison for decades, if not life. This dishonourable, disreputable cop used his state-granted police powers to intimidate vulnerable men to submit to his deviant sexual crimes, yet he is allowed to avoid being branded a sex offender. He committed sex crimes under the colour of law. "... liberty and justice for all" is... As the case wound its way through the court system, Bleiweiss was allowed to move to Oregon, where he stayed between 2010 and 2013. He then moved to San Francisco. Lawsuits were filed in state and federal court. Some were settled. Some were dismissed. One is pending, said defense lawyer Alvin Entin, but Bleiweiss has not been served with it. The resolution of the civil cases put a damper on the Broward State Attorney's Office plans to bring Bleiweiss to justice, said prosecutor Neva Smith. "They didn't want to testify," she said. "They wanted to put it behind them." In addition to the seven named victims, prosecutors had planned to call a dozen men who also claimed to have been sexually abused by Bleiweiss. "Most of those victims have since been deported," Smith said. Reluctant victims and missing witnesses made a plea deal attractive to prosecutors, who had planned to try the cases separately. Entin said seven back-to-back trials would have given prosecutors repeated opportunities to refine and perfect their arguments. The stakes, life in prison, were too high for his client to risk. "Clarence Darrow couldn't win seven cases in a row," Entin said. All sex-related charges were dropped. Aside from answering questions from the judge, usually with the word "guilty," Bleiweiss did not speak during Thursday's plea hearing. A single victim attended the hearing. He declined to comment. SFGN and Sun Sentinel are media partners. soflagaynews //

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Photo: user Wt90401, Wikipedia.

Wal-Mart Opposes Arkansas Law Some See as Allowing LGBT Bias (AP) Wal-Mart Stores Inc. says it opposes a new law in its home state of Arkansas to ban cities and counties from expanding anti-discrimination protections to include sexual orientation and gender identity. A spokesman for the world's largest retailer on Monday said the proposal that became law earlier in the day runs counter to its beliefs and "sends the wrong message about Arkansas." Wal-Mart is based in Bentonville in northwest Arkansas.

Photo: Twp.

ox Anchor Calls Lady Gaga's Oscars Performance 'Jigaboo Music'

cott Lively Warns Gay Marriage Will Cause Sodom's Fire, Noah's Flood

(Edge Media) According to pastor Scott "don't call me 'antigay'" Lively, 2015 might be a good year to take out extra home owner's insurance. In an opinion piece published on 端ber right-wing pundit Matt Barber's website Barb Wire, Scott Lively, the anti-gay pastor who has been charged with committing crimes against humanity for his involvement with the passage of Uganda's "kill the gays" law, is warning divine retribution not seen since the days of the Old Testament if the United States Supreme Court rules in favor of same-sex marriage this term. Citing scriptural "blood moons" set to take place in 2015, Lively said that the "official endorsement of 'gay marriage' by the most powerful and influential nation on earth, and more importantly the only nation in the history of the world (other than ancient Israel) to be established on a Biblical foundation, is an act of rebellion against God not seen since Noah's Flood." Lively further warns of "a growing army of self-righteous political activists claiming to represent Christ in a campaign to declare good evil and evil good. They and their unique brand of apostasy are clearly described in the last-days prophecy of 2 Peter 2:1-10, which specifically invokes Sodom."

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The measure, which takes effect later this year, bans local governments from expanding anti-discrimination ordinances beyond state law, which doesn't include sexual orientation or gender identity. Republican Gov. Asa Hutchinson allowed the legislation to become law without his signature after citing concerns about it infringing on local control. Opponents of it had urged Wal-Mart to speak out against the measure.

(Edge Media) Julie Andrews, star of the beloved movie musical "The Sound of Music," may have added Lady Gaga's medley of songs from the iconic film at Sunday night's Oscars telecast to her list of favorite things, but a Cleveland anchor at a local Fox affiliate had a different take on Mother Monster's performance which she used the racist epithet "jigaboo" to describe, Raw Story reports. "Lady Gaga, surprising a lot of people last night with this tribute to 'Sound of Music'," said Cleveland Fox 8's AfricanAmerican anchor Wayne Dawson on Monday's edition of WJW News in the Morning. Dawson's co-anchor Kristin Capel, a former Miss USA contestant from Missouri, had a different take on Gaga's performance that Julie Andrews herself called "wonderful." "It's hard to really hear her voice with all the jigaboo music whatever you want to call it - jigaboo!" Capel said. Dictionary.com defines "Jigaboo" as an "extremely disparaging and offensive" term for black people." Raw Story notes that after several viewers complained to Capel via Twitter, the former beauty queen cut and pasted the same explanation to each of them. "I apologize if I offended you, I had no idea it was a word or what it meant. Thank you for watching." Lady Gaga. CNN.

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regon Panel Considers Bill Banning 'Gay Conversion Therapy'

(AP) An Oregon gay rights group is asking the state Legislature to outlaw therapy that seeks to change the sexual orientation or gender identity of young people. A state House panel heard testimony on the measure Monday. It's promoted by Basic Rights Oregon, a nonprofit gay and transgender advocacy group from Portland. The measure is part of a national push to prevent mental health care providers from practicing so-called conversion therapy. A dozen other states are pushing for similar legislation, which already exists in New Jersey, California and Washington, D.C. Proponents of the measure say there is no scientific basis the therapy is effective in changing a person's sexual orientation or gender identity. They also say it often leads to feelings of depression, suicidal thoughts or anxiety in children. SouthFloridaGayNews

news briefs John McDonald

Continued

Photo: U.S. Consulate General, Amsterdam / Facebook

Secretary of State John Kerry named veteran diplomat Randy Berry as the United States’ international envoy to LGBT (lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender) rights on Monday. Berry currently serves as consul general in the Netherlands. As a foreign service officer, Berry has been posted in Uganda, Bangladesh, Egypt and South Africa. He speaks English,

.S. State Department Names LGBT Envoy

Spanish and Arabic. Jessica Stern, executive director of the International Human Rights Commission, said the newly created position has much work to do globally. “The U.S. envoy can contribute to a new era in which the conscience of governments everywhere can be focused on the destabilizing impact of prejudice and abuse that inflicts suffering on millions worldwide,” Stern said in a statement. “Human rights should be a priority for every government in both domestic and foreign policy.” As consul general in Amsterdam, Berry excelled and was a voice of clarity and conviction on human rights issues, said Kerry. “I’m confident that Randy’s leadership as our new Special Envoy will significantly advance efforts underway to move to a world free from violence and discrimination against LGBT persons,” Kerry said in a press release. However, not all greeted the news of Berry’s appointment with warm words. As the State Department announced the new envoy on its Facebook page, some commenters reacted negatively. “You’ve got to be kidding,” commented Chris Richardson. “Spreading abominations against God, huh?” Joanne Nelson commented. Noland Bell, whose Facebook profile says he works at the Georgia Army National Guard, commented the State Department’s post was “Moronic, so stupid and immoral.”

“Wish there was a don’t like button,” commented Daniel Friend, a self-identified Christian from Oklahoma. Such reaction only proves that position is needed, said a former State Dept. diplomat, who declined to be identified for this article. Similar sentiment is what Berry faces in more than 75 countries the U.S. recognizes that have criminalized consensual same-sex activity. “Too often, in too many countries, LGBT persons are threatened, jailed and prosecuted because of who they are or who they love,” Kerry said. “Too many governments have proposed or enacted laws that aim to curb freedom of expression, association, religion and peaceful protest.” Stern said the timing is ripe for progress on gay rights with agencies and NGOs going through budget negotiations. “Currently, the governments of the world are seized with the development of the forthcoming United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, which, in follow-up to the Millennium Development Goals, will be a global framework for addressing progress toward human development from 2015 to 2030,” Stern said. “The goal of the Sustainable Development Goals must be to leave no one behind --- not LGBTI people, people who are gender non-conforming, the old, the young -- or anyone.” Also on Monday, newly confirmed U.S. Defense Secretary Ash Carter stated his openness for lifting a ban on transgender service members. Carter made the remarks at a town hall in Kandahar, Afghanistan.

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news bites

(954) 368-9100

by John McDonald

international

hinese Short Film About Homosexuality Goes Viral

A short film is making a big impact for gay rights in China. “Coming Home,” a six-minute documentary of one family’s coming to terms with their son’s homosexuality, has received over 100 million views on QQ, a popular video streaming site. While homosexuality has been legal for twenty years in China, same-sex marriage remains forbidden. “Coming Home” is sponsored by PFLAG China, a gay rights organization named after the U.S. based Parents, Friends and Families of Lesbians and Gays and the gay dating app Blued, which claims to have more than 15 million users, primarily in Beijing, China’s capital city.

Credit: Youtube

national

Book Explores Loving, New Longtime Male Relationships

Tim Clausen is a jazz pianist and historian who interviewed same-sex male couples about their lasting relationships. His stories are found in a new book titled “Love Together: Longtime Male Couples on Healthy Intimacy and Communication.” Clausen is hoping his book will inspire single gay men seeking a long term relationship. “Love Together,” Clausen says, presents two dozen couples in healthy, loving, long-term relationships. Among the couples featured in the book are Gary and Dan Ross, the first same-sex military couple in America to legally marry. Clausen, who is single, lives in Wisconsin with his cat Pepper. For more information, visit www. lovetogetherbook.com.

state

Man Refuses Jury Duty Gayin Jacksonville

(954) 368-9100

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*Not valid for those with gum disease

In response to the Duval County Clerk of Courts refusal to perform same-sex marriage ceremonies, a gay man is refusing jury duty in the northeast Florida county. Chuck Chapman, 63, told a Duval County judge that he did not feel comfortable in a court where the clerk, Ronnie Fussell, halted wedding ceremonies. Fussell said he and his staff did not feel comfortable performing same-sex weddings and, consequently stopped all weddings. Chapman says there were 1,900 weddings performed in the courthouse’s chapel and Fussell’s decision to end the practice has interrupted a revenue stream. Chapman was dismissed from jury duty without charge.

local Beach Approves LGBTBoynton Inclusive Rights Ordinance

Boynton Beach City Commissioners unanimously voted, on first reading, to adopt a civil rights ordinance that opposes discrimination based on race, color, national origin, religion, sex, gender identity or expression, genetic information, sexual orientation, disability, marital status, pregnancy, familial status or age. “This strong and unified voice sends a clear message that the city of Boynton Beach is a community where everyone is welcome to establish a business, buy a home and otherwise enjoy all the amenities the city has to offer,” said Rand Hoch, President of the Palm Beach County Human Rights Council. A final vote is scheduled for March 3.

THE BEST IN TOWN 2517 NE 9TH AVE. WILTON MANORS, FL 33305 12

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Ronnie Fussel, Circuit Court Clerk

news election 2016 White House Watch:

Bobby Jindal

Freedom and commitment go hand in hand.

John McDonald

the capital city of Baton Rouge to Indian immigrants and served in the U.S. House of Representatives for four years – during a time when New Orleans, one of America’s great cities, was ravaged by the effects of Hurricane Katrina. As a 2016 hopeful, Jindal has created America Next, a conservative policy group. According to its website mission statement, America Next claims that “conservatives have failed to articulate and sell a national policy agenda to the country.” On his Twitter account, Jindal, a Republican, is shown posing with members of the cast from the television show “Duck Dynasty.”

Louisiana Governor Bobby Jindal is in the crosshairs of SFGN’s White House Watch this week. Jindal purportedly holds U.S. Presidential aspirations. His candidacy would be hard for the LGBT community and its allies to stomach. Jindal recently stated Louisiana would continue to reject same-sex marriage. He has publicly stated his preference to have the U.S. Supreme Court stay out of state affairs. “My faith teaches me that marriage is between a man and woman,” Jindal told CNN. “I don’t believe in discrimination against anybody. I’m not for changing the definition of marriage and that’s why I hope the Supreme Court decides not to overturn what the states have decided. In Louisiana it’s our state constitution. My hope is that the Supreme Court will respect what state legislators and states have already decided.” Louisiana joins Mississippi and Texas in the 5th Circuit U.S. Court of Appeals. Piyush “Bobby” Jindal, 43, has governed the small Southern state since 2008. He was born in

ISL KEY W EST

BIG PINE KEY & THE LOWER KEYS

MARA

THO

With same-sex marriage in Florida now as welcomed and natural as your devotion to each other, there’s nothing to stop you from walking down the isle of Key West. Truth is, from barefoot beach weddings to more formal affairs, Key West is more open than ever. fla-keys.com/keywest/weddings 305.294.4603 soflagaynews //

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MCTKW-9963 South FL Gay News LO1 • 2/25/15

feature

Photo: Lisa Ganser

San Fran Trans Community Stands and "Dies" Against Violence David-Elijah Nahmod

Dozens of transgender people, and allies, gathered in front of San Francisco City Hall earlier this month to protest the rising tide of violence against trans women of color. The event, called Trans Liberation Tuesday, was sparked by the February 1 murder of Taja DeJesus, a 36-year-old transgender woman, who was stabbed multiple times in the City's Bayview neighborhood. James Hayes, the 49-year-old suspect in DeJesus' death, was later found hanging in an apparent suicide. As protesters arrived to participate, they were told that they would not be permitted to gather on the steps of City Hall, but instead must hold their action on the sidewalk in front of the building. Supervisor David Campos, an openly gay man who represents San Francisco's District 9, came outside to tell the crowd how ashamed he was that the community was not being allowed to express their grief on City Hall property. John Gavin, representing City Hall's building management office, explained to SFGN why this decision was made. "On Monday, February 9, a step-use request was made by Supervisor Campos' office for February 10 from 1:30-2:30 p.m.," Gavin said. "City Hall Building Management advised that the steps were unavailable at that time but were available for use at any other time. The group was permitted to enter City Hall and engage in the public process at the Board of Supervisors meeting by speaking during public comment." The action commenced on the sidewalk with Breanna Sinclaire, a transwoman who holds a Master's Degree from the San Francisco Conservatory of Music, moving the crowd to tears with her operatic rendition of Amazing Grace. Sinclaire, and several speakers, were allowed to stand on the City Hall steps as they faced the crowd. Local activist Janetta Johnson asked trans women of color to step to the front of the crowd for a three minute "die-in" as a stand against the escalating violence against the community. Johnson specifically requested that only trans women of color participate in

the die-in "because they are most impacted at this time." The rest of the participants remained respectfully quiet as around 3 dozen transwomen lay on the sidewalk in front of City Hall. A series of speakers followed, all of whom called for an end to the violence, as well as equal access to jobs, housing and health care for the trans community. "Transphobic ignorance continues," Danielle Castro said. "Even here in this city we're being murdered, harassed, cast aside." "If you're trans, gay or lesbian, you're a person," Sadaisha Shimmers said. "If you kill us, we will come for you!" The crowd cheered each of the speakers. Inside City Hall, David Campos addressed the action taking place on the street as the City's weekly Board of Supervisors meeting convened. He also paid tribute to Taja DeJesus. "She came to San Francisco to become part of the trans community and to get support," Campos said. "She was active in her church and in her local food pantry. She worked hard and never hesitated to give money to other people." The Supervisor noted that 60 percent of trans Latinas felt unsafe in their own neighborhoods, as opposed to 12 percent of gays and lesbians. "We are dealing with a crisis," he said, pointing out that there have been five trans women of color murdered in the U.S. this past month. He also addressed the building manager's decision to disallow the protest from taking place on the steps of City Hall. â&#x20AC;&#x153;This was disrespectful and painful for the community," he said. "I don't think we can be proud of how management treated the community today." Campos called for the Board of Supervisors to hold a hearing to address the escalating violence against the transgender community. His motion was supported by Supervisor Scott Wiener, who is also gay, and by Supervisors Jane Kim and Eric Mar, who are straight.

David-Elijah Nahmod is SFGNâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s San Francisco correspondent. 14

// 2.25.2015 // SFGN.com //

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news local Wilton Manors to Celebrate First Caribbean LGBT Pride Festival Jillian Melero

The first Caribbean LGBT Pride Festival will be held in Eucalyptus Gardens on Saturday, March 7, according to Bryan Wilson, administrative director of SunServe. Wilson described the event as a family friendly block party, for which Eucalyptus Gardens, with its outdoor space and multiple shops, is a perfect environment. The celebration will feature a team of dancers organized by SunServe member Richard Forbes, a variety of local vendors, and reggae music courtesy of DJ Biscuit and Superior Sounds. There will also be a children’s area with clowns, face painting and caricature artists, sponsored by CommCare specialty pharmacy. The festival “aims to celebrate myriad Caribbean cultures, their influence on South Florida, and, of course, the LGBTQ Caribbean people and their allies,” said Wilson. Wilson said he was most surprised by the overwhelmingly positive amount of feedback, and the excitement of the community to build the celebration from a small event to a full on festival. Eucalyptus Gardens owner, Deanna Allen, offered use of the gardens free of charge. Allen is also of Jamaican heritage. SunServe is a nonprofit that supports the LGBTQ community. Their mission statement includes providing “high quality, culturally relevant care for all with an emphasis on those in financial need, minorities, youth, seniors, HIV plus

persons, and those with life-challenging physical or emotional conditions.” Wilson said the idea for the Caribbean festival began about seven months ago after SunServe received a call about an incident of violence that occurred against an LGBT Jamaican family and their guest during a Jamaican Independence Day celebration in Pembroke Pines. A lesbian couple and their daughter, brought a gay friend with them to the celebration. At some point a small crowd began to pelt their guest with beer bottles, calling him by the derogatory term “bati boy.” “SunServe immediately recognized the need for more safe spaces wherein all individuals of Caribbean Island descent and heritage may celebrate their culture in a venue affirming of the LGBTQ community,” Wilson said. Wilson said the caller originally asked SunServe if they could host an LGBT friendly Jamaican Independence Day party in Kingston. While Jamaica might be a little outside of SunServe’s range, the more broadly encompassing Caribbean festival is building up to be a much welcomed event here in Broward County. The Caribbean LGBT Pride Festival will take place Saturday March 7 from 4 p.m. – 10 p.m. at Wilton Manors’ Eucalyptus Gardens. There will a $5 cover. Check out SunServe’s event page at SunServe.org/Events for details.

The Eucalyptus Gardens are located at 2430 Northeast 13th Avenue in Wilton Manors. Call 786) 399-7422 or visit www.eucalyptus-gardens.com for more information.

// 2.25.2015 // SFGN.com //

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Aging and Addiction A growing problem for seniors

John McDonald

The Good Soldiers and Baby Boomers are of very different mindsets and yet both generations are confronted with the daily challenges of aging and addiction. An engaged crowd listened to a program Thursday morning inside Wilton Manors’ Pride Center that dealt with important issues faced by everyday seniors – aging and addiction. “The problem is the medication issue. They can’t manage their medicine,” said Patrick E. Cavanaugh, a certified prevention specialist in Broward County Elderly and Veterans Services Division. Cavanaugh cited statistics that twentyfive percent of new enrollees in assisted care facilities were the direct result of medication mismanagement. He introduced John Byden from the Hanley Center at Origins as the program’s guest speaker, who made the case that America’s health care system is broken. “Our health care system is broken,” Dyben said. “It is built to give doctors minutes with patients. Are they social workers or are they physicians?” Dyben works in Origins, a West Palm Beach clinic for recovery, where he directs the baby boomer and older adult care. Dyben spoke of the issues he sees with patients over the age of 55. There are two generations in this group – baby boomers who are just entering their entitlement years and good soldiers who are from what has often been termed the greatest generation because of their involvement in World War II. Dyben said Good Soldiers are more often prone to “suck it up” and refuse multiple medications for their need. Baby Boomers,

on the other hand, come from the sex, love and anything goes era, which embraced experimental drug usage. “The generation you grew up in is a gigantic influencer,” Dyben said. Dyben also stated that approximately five million people over the age of 65 had used an illicit drug. And prescriptions, for senior citizens, are much easier to obtain. “A 25-year-old kid is going to have a much harder time getting Xanax (Alhprazolam) than you guys are,” Dyben remarked. The audience was stunned and soon began asking questions and relaying stories of their battles with aging and addiction. One man said after his recent open-heart surgery he was told to take 45 different medications. “How do you do that?” he asked. Another man, James Senior, a Fort Lauderdale financial advisor said he routinely sees guys who move down to South Florida from the North getting “sucked into the vortex” of problems. Dyben, who travels the nation to lecture about addiction treatment, said everyone has an addiction to a mood altering substances whether it’s abstinence, beer with your pizza, or wine with your dinner. For some people it is no problem to their health, but for others it causes disability. “They cannot stop,” Dyden said. “And right now there is an epidemic of substance abuse and addiction in the older adult American population.” Dyden has worked for 10 years for Hanley Center at Origins. He said the West Palm Beach recovery treatment facility was opened in 1986 by former U.S. First Lady Betty Ford.

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SouthFloridaGayNews // SFGN.com // 2.25.2015 //

news local

Internet Sex Ads, HIV infections, and Invisibility Sean McShee

February News From SFAN Sean McShee The South Florida AIDS Network (SFAN) functions as the networking/advisory body for the Ryan White Care (RWC), Part B grant in Broward County. Its monthly meetings are open to the public. The meeting discussed four topics: 1. Transitioning RWC clients into the Affordable Care Act (ACA) marketplaces 2. ACA enrollment in Florida 3. Florida HIV/LGBT legislative issues 4. A new Jansen one-pill a day anti-retroviral.

In early February, Newsweek reported on Jason Chan and Anindya Ghose’s study that claimed ads for casual sexual partners on Craigslist.org resulted in large numbers of new HIV infections. When the mainstream press covers a research study about hot button issues, a good study can have unintended negative consequence, and a bad study can become the basis of policy. This study has serious problems in design, assumptions and in its citations that reduce its credibility. Gay/bi and other men who have sex with men became invisible in this study of the Internet and HIV transmission. The Management Information Systems Quarterly published this epidemiological study. Sometimes an outside perspective can uncover something new. Other times an outside perspective can just be strange, and not in the good sense. HIV does not spread randomly in the population like the flu. It spreads in certain social groups and not in others. Gay/bisexual men accounted for 53.2 percent of all new positive HIV tests in 2012, exceeding all other groups. Yet these researchers managed to discuss increases in HIV infections without once using the words “gay,” ‘bisexual,” “man who has sex with men” or “MSM” in the text. The number and content of ads for Man-Seeking-Men on Craigslist should be critical variables for this study to examine, but they were not. On page 7 of their study, the authors describe the problem driving increases in HIV infections as a choice between having casual sex and enjoying “STD/HIV free status via abstinence.” This false dichotomy ignores the increasing number of prevention choices that people have. Chan and Gross charge that HIV infected men either withhold or misrepresent their HIV status to on-line sex partners, thereby driving

new infections. This scapegoating of the Aware Infected ignores the dangers of the Unaware Infected. They can be either people who have never tested or people who have become HIVinfected after their last negative HIV test, but have not yet re-tested for HIV. The latter can honestly disclose an incorrect HIV status. The authors cite two studies to support their claim of HIV positive culpability. Only one study (Moskowitz and Seal 2010) has been posted online. This study did not focus on HIV itself, but a psychological theory in the context of HIV. Moskowitz surveyed men in multiple countries who had placed internet ads seeking casual male sexual partners, and had a low response rate (1015 percent). The low response rate and the global reach make it difficult to generalize from these results to trends in the US. Men with HIV infection did report less disclosure and less condom use than did men without, but Moskowitz defined “disclosure” as discussing HIV status with a partner. Moskowitz did not report whether the respondents considered information posted in the ad as part of a “discussion.” Chan and Ghose also cite McFarlane et al 2000 to support their statement “Irresponsible and risky behavior of having sexual contact with online partners prior to HIV testing is also observed.” McFarlane collected the data as part of a HIV test. The study collected data on behavior in the six months prior to the HIV test. As a result, all encounters would be prior to this this HIV test. McFarlane did not report how many prior HIV tests each subject had, or if this was their first HIV test. These problems mar this study and its truncated Newsweek “incarnation.” In the tradition of HIV as “punishment for transgressing sexual norms,” this study fails to clarify how the Internet affects HIV transmission.

To read the Chan and Ghose article visit papers.ssrn.com/sol3/papers.cfm?abstract-id=2035585 .

// 2.25.2015 // SFGN.com //

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Transitioning RWC clients into the Affordable Care Act (ACA) marketplaces Cliff Eserman raised the issue of potential tax liabilities in tax year 2015 for people transitioning from RWC to the ACA marketplace health plans. These potential tax liabilities result from differences in eligibility calculations between ADAP and ACA plans. In order to calculate eligibility, ADAP uses individual income. The ACA uses household income. At tax time in 2016, the IRS will compare actual income, reported income, and recalculate the ACA subsidies. It will then reconcile the recalculated subsidy with the paid subsidy. At present RWC legally cannot resolve any subsidy overpayments, leaving the client potentially liable for any overpayment. Joey Wynn, SFAN Chair, responded that the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid (CMS) are considering allowing RWC to pay for certain liabilities. According to Wynn, “these rules are being rewritten as we speak.” Wynn promised to hold a public forum to discuss this and other issues. ACA enrollment in Florida

Gursimran Reen of the Broward Regional Health Planning Council reported on ACA enrollment in the Federal Marketplace. As of early February this year, 1,393,068 Floridians and, 661,917 residents of Miami, Broward, and Palm Beach County had signed up for ACA plans. Florida HIV/LGBT legislative issues

Jason King and David Poole, both from AIDS Healthcare Foundation reported on relevant

Florida legislative issues. House and Senate members have introduced two HIV bills and two LGBT bills. Each bill in the legislature has one name for the House with the prefix “HB” and another one for the Senate, with the prefix “SB.” HB 0321/SB 521 would allow spoken consent to HIV testing in clinical settings to routinize HIV testing with the goal of earlier detection. HB 0475/SB 1040 would allow the University of Miami to establish a privately funded needle exchange program. It would also remove legal barriers to that needle exchange program. HB 33/SB56 would add the categories of sexual orientation and gender identity to Florida antidiscrimination law. HB83/SB204 would prohibit therapists and counselors from attempting to “cure” homosexuality in minors. These bills first have to go through a series of committees before a full vote by either the House or the Senate. New Jansen one-pill a day anti-retroviral

Donna Sabatino and Yvonne Wind-Vasquez reported on a new Janssen once-a-day antiretroviral (ARV) drug, Prezcobix, a combination of two other ARVs, Prezista ® (Darunavir) and Tybost ® (Cobicistat). Janssen now has a zerodollar copay and covers the deductible up to $7,500 per year for Prezcobix. As of press time, ADAP has not yet added Prezcobix to its approved drugs, but its approval process has begun. Other AICP News: On February 13, Loraine Wells, ADAP State Program Director, announced that the Health Council of South Florida would no longer administer the AIDS Insurance Continuation Program (AICP) as of March 31, 2015.

Miami-Dade, Broward and Palm Beach Counties and the ACA Enrollment These three south Florida counties have almost as many ACA enrollees as the rest of Florida. South Florida enrollees represent 8.5 percent of all enrollees in the entire Federal ACA Marketplace. According to the Miami Herald, about 6.5 percent of all Floridians have signed up for an ACA plan. Prior to the ACA, Florida ranked third among states in the number of uninsured residents (3.8 million). In 2013, about 13 percent of the U.S. population lacked health insurance. Prior to the ACA, about 32 percent of the population of Miami lacked health insurance, as did 26 percent of the population of Broward. Zip Code 33012 in Hialeah and Zip Code 33313 in Fort Lauderdale have, respectively, the highest and third highest ACA enrollment of any zip code in the Federal ACA Marketplace. And yet Florida has been among the most ACA resistant states.

Next SFAN Meeting: Thursday, March 5 at 6:00 p.m., at the Holy Cross Healthplex, 1000 NE 56th Street, Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33334. Newcomers are encouraged to attend. SouthFloridaGayNews

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Porn Star Killian James Talks Barebacking and PrEP

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once a day regimen of Truvada to prevent HIV. “The maker of the drug says to use Truvada one way, while the porn producers are saying to use it another way,” James said. When reached by SFGN, Lucas declined to discuss James at any length. He did acknowledge that James had contacted Lucas Entertainment seeking work. “He was not up to our standards so we turned him down,” Lucas said. Lucas sent SFGN a link to an interview he gave to the gay news blog Queerty in which he discussed recent decision to bareback Silk LaserhisCenter . “HIV treatments can now reduce viral loads QTY: / MEDIA: Photopaper to 1the point where,SUBSTRATE as far as we can tell, they 60”Wlittle x 24H” to no risk N/A SIZE: FINISHING: pose of transmission,” the adult auteur told Queerty. Lucas also said that he was currently in a relationship with an HIV positive man. (x1) 60”W x 24H” Photopaper print Though they have barebacked privately, he remains disease free with the help of preventative medications. Lucas stated that all Lucas Entertainment models must submit to a comprehensive STD test prior to filming and that results must show that they’ve been clean for at least ten days. “I personally think that condom free porn is hotter,” Lucas said. “Porn is a fantasy, and no one fantasizes about condoms.” Porn’s purpose, Lucas said, is simple. “I’m not a messenger, I just make movies. I don’t think that men go to porn for life lessons. They just want to get off, and we want to help them. I don’t think bareback porn has driven gay men to bareback sex.” Killian James isn’t convinced. “People mimic what they see,” he said. “It’s like me buying a BMW and wanting to drag race at 150 miles per hour.”

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“The Best Bottoms Make the Best Tops” states New York City resident Killian James’ page at Rentboy.com. James was voted Best Bottom 2014 at the Hookies, the International Escort Awards. A former accountant, James is immensely proud of the recognition. He told SFGN that he was doing quite well for himself, and that he might go into real estate after his time in the sex trade was up. James has also performed in porn. He is now speaking up about the rise in bareback film production, which he says is putting the lives of models at risk. Barebacking —anal sex without condoms — is said to be one of the primary ways to spread HIV, the virus which causes AIDS. Yet the popularity and production of bareback films has increased. “I have two friends in the industry who’ve been diagnosed with HIV this past summer,” James told SFGN by telephone. He pointed out that while HIV has become “manageable”, the cost of maintaining one’s health after an HIV infection could amount to $30,000 per year, and that many HIV drugs come with highly unpleasant side effects. “This is all common sense,” James said. “When you’re too politically correct you can’t say things that need to be said.” James said that he would not bareback under any circumstances. In addition to HIV, he pointed out, bareback sex could lead to other sexually transmitted diseases such as syphilis. If left untreated, syphilis can cause permanent brain damage. On the other side of the spectrum stands gay porn superstar and producer Michael Lucas. Once a staunch advocate for on-camera condoms, Lucas now produces bareback films. Lucas encourages his models to use PrEP, a

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feature black history

s U t r o Supp

Black Leaders Who David-Elijah Nahmod

The African American community has often been accused of not supporting LGBT equality. These claims may have been greatly exaggerated. Many leaders and celebrities from with the Black community have in fact been staunch LGBT allies. While this list is by no means complete, here are a few friends of ours from the Black community:

Maya Angelou (1928-2014) Maya Angelou’s storied life included prostitution (which she spoke about openly during her later years), nightclub singer, film actress, legendary poet and civil rights activist. In 1998 she spoke of the importance of coming out at HRC’s annual dinner. In 2009 she publicly expressed her support for marriage equality.

Magic Johnson Basketball superstar Earvin “Magic” Johnson stunned the sports world when he came out as HIV positive in 1991 — Johnson is not gay and helped to dispel the myth that AIDS is a “gay disease.” Soon after the announcement, he formed the Magic Johnson Foundation to combat AIDS. In 1992 he resigned from the National Commission on AIDS, citing then President Bush’s ignoring of commission recommendations, which included universal healthcare and the expansion of Medicaid. In 2013, Johnson publicly expressed his support and unconditional love for EJ, his gay son.

The talk show queen turned TV network owner is one of the most successful and powerful women in show business history. Her support for LGBT people has been unparalleled. Many episodes of The Oprah Winfrey Show gave LGBT people a voice, with Oprah’s own voice raising awareness to the more conservative portions of her sizable fan base. In 1988, The Oprah Show observed National Coming Out Day. She has since given a platform to anti-bullying campaigns, HIV awareness and marriage equality. Her OWN Network has continued this tradition, with Winfrey personally supporting groundbreaking LGBT documentaries such as “Becoming Chaz” and “Bridegroom” --both films captured the attention of the media after Oprah premiered them on OWN with a great deal of fanfare. In 1997, Oprah appeared on “The Puppy Episode,” the groundbreaking episode of “The Ellen Show” in which Ellen DeGeneres said the words I’m gay to 39 million viewers. At the time, Winfrey said she wanted to be part of what she considered to be an historic television event // 2.25.2015 // SFGN.com //

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Martin Luther King’s widow was a class act every step of the way. Mrs. King outlived her legendary and courageous spouse by 38 years. She was a lady in the old fashioned sense, but she also a strong woman who continued fighting the good fight for equality and justice. As early as 1983, she urged that the Civil Rights Act, one of her husband’s legacies, be amended to include gays and lesbians as a protected class. In 2003 she addressed the Creating Change Conference, an annual event organized by the National Gay and Lesbian Task Force. She linked the Civil Rights movement to LGBT equality, subsequently taking heat from Black pastors. She said that her critics were “misinformed” and expressed her support for marriage equality the following year.

Eartha Kitt (1927-2008) An iconic recording artist and Broadway star, Kitt titillated audiences with her sexy, naughty purr. Her 1950s hits included then daringly erotic songs such as Santa Baby and C’est Si Bon. During the 1960s she brought some genuine sex appeal to the Batman TV series, in which she was seen as a very seductive Catwoman. Her career was nearly destroyed when she spoke out against the Vietnam War during a 1968 White House visit, but Kitt bounced back. Kitt continued her anti-war activism, among many other causes. In her later years she publicly supported marriage equality, which she said was “a civil right.” She appeared at many LGBT events, explaining in 1992 why she supported the LGBT community. “I am a rejected, oppressed person, so I understand them,” she said.

Cory Booker

Oprah Winfrey

Coretta Scott King (1927-2006)

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The former mayor of Newark NJ is now a Senator, representing New Jersey. Always outspoken, Booker has never hesitated to call out the hypocrisy of the religious right. He says what he means. Booker strongly supports marriage equality. Before samesex marriage became law in New Jersey, Booker said that the state’s Civil Unions law was bigoted, pointing out that it denied LGBT couples federal marriage rights. On the very day same-sex marriage became legal in New Jersey, Booker performed wedding ceremonies for gay couples. He has since co-sponsored the Employment Non-Discrimination Act.

Whoopi Goldberg The Oscar winning film star and talk show host never minces words when expressing her sometimes controversial opinions. She has made it clear that she doesn’t care what people think, and proudly walks to the beat of her own drum. In 1987 she participated in the March on Washington, the largest rally, up to that time, for LGBT equality. In 2010 she joined Cyndi Lauper’s Give A Damn campaign, which seeks to bring wider awareness to anti-LGBT discrimination.

feature black history

Local Black LGBT Activists SFGN Staff

Black history month is a time to remember important people in African American history. It is also a time to set aside and honor the achievements of black men and women throughout history. As our country and community continue to evolve, it is important that we highlight the accomplishments of

those who are paving a new path and fighting the good fight to improve life for all of us. That’s what Lorenzo Lowe, Aryah Lester, Listron Mannix, and Rajindra Narinesingh do every day. That’s why this Black history month, it’s important to focus on their contributions to our community.

Aryah Lester

Living in Two Communities

Lorenzo Lowe

• Denise Royal The transgender-rights movement is having its moment. A bright spotlight is on the trans community as it increases its legal protections and visibility in the mass media. But, if you think it’s easy to be black and trans, guess again. Aryah Lester knows this all too well. She is the current chair for the State of Florida Health Department's Transgender Work Group and is a member of the Transgender Networking Group. Lester founded the Trans-Miami Center, as well as continuing the network of her National Alliance of Transgender Advocates and Leaders (NATAL). Despite her incredible advocacy, she still faces systematic prejudice. “Being both black and transgender, it is difficult for me to distinguish the two: to decide which of the two is the root of the hateful looks I regularly receive,” Lester said. She continued, “Both issues, my color and my gender identity, would greatly affect my life if either were changed. Either could get me shot or stabbed, but being transgender could attract violence from the same people of color I struggle with. Lack of empathy and education keeps society treating trans individuals like we did with blacks centuries ago, even in large cities like Miami. The work of civil rights leaders is undermined every time a trans woman of color is killed without mercy or justice,” she told SFGN. While many strides have been made, there is still a lot of work to be done. “It is difficult for me to walk the public streets, not knowing if intent brewed from hate will end my life. Only through resilience

and audacity am I able to leave my home and fight for the right to be treated as human,” Lester said.

People Person & Poet

Listron Mannix • John McDonald Listron Mannix, 29, is making a difference daily in the lives of Floridians. As a HIV testing manager for the Pride Center, Mannix is on the front lines of educational and awareness efforts in the battle to eradicate new AIDS cases. “We do very traditional outreach,” Mannix said. “It’s face-to-face providing information about testing.” And if that means going into low-income neighborhoods and government housing projects, so be it. Mannix is not afraid. “Working at the Pride Center has certainly allowed me to fulfill my goal to work in the field of HIV/AIDS and to be a part of a vehicle for change,” Mannix said. Born in Bronx, N.Y. and raised in Toronto, Canada and on the Caribbean island of Antigua, Mannix came to Florida to further his education. He received his Bachelors in psychology and Masters in social work from Florida Atlantic University and is currently putting together his dissertation for a Ph.D in clinical sexology. For inspiration he looks to U.S. President Barack Obama, who Mannix believes “has shown people of color, especially men, that anything is possible no matter the color of our skin. I hope to follow suit and have a positive impact on the lives I come in contact with.” Mannix lives in Fort Lauderdale with his partner of four years, Scott Belding.

• Denise Royal Lorenzo Lowe always wanted to be an advocate for others. As the HIV Prevention Coordinator for Compass, The Gay and Lesbian Community Center of the Palm Beaches, he helps people everyday. This month, Lowe celebrates his four-year anniversary at Compass. He’s optimistic that one day HIV will eradicated. “Some of the greatest achievements in our history started with hope and a belief that something could be done to create change. Great strides have led to better medications, longer lifespans, and undetectable viral loads. As long as we all continue to do our part in fighting stigma, and promoting awareness there will be an end on the horizon,” said Lowe. When he’s not working, Lowe writes and performs poetry. “Art comes in many forms and I love all of them. I have 16 different journals that are filled with poems, 5 of which have been published,” he said. Lowe has a long list of black heroes, who run the gamut from civil rights leaders to Hollywood. “ Some are unconventional while others include poet, activist, and educator Nikki Giovanni and Whoopi Goldberg,” he said. But perhaps his biggest hero was his father. “My father was the first and only person in his family to graduate from college. From him I learned unconditional love. My grandparents never graduated from high school but went on to become business owners and pillars to their community. I learned that you must define success for yourself,” Lowe told SFGN.

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Rajindra Narinesingh • John McDonald She goes by “Rajee” and is on a lifetime journey to true beauty. Rajindra Narinesingh, 47, was born in Brooklyn, N.Y. and raised in Philadelphia. Her story is one of suffering as Rajee was the victim of horrible bullying, and in some cases, severe beatings. “We happen to be targeted more in discrimination and violence,” said Rajee, a transwoman. Rajee said she was an effeminate boy growing up and was often called “faggot.” After living androgynously for years, she finally owned up to being a woman. Sadly, fortune dealt her another tough hand when she was injected with cement and other toxic materials during a black market cosmetic surgery gone wrong. And yet she carries on and seeks justice for her transgender brothers and sisters. “When I die, I do not want to be on my death bed and not having done anything for my community,” said Rajee, who lives in Hollywood, Fla. A published author, Rajee says she gains her inspiration from legendary civil rights leader Martin Luther King, Jr. as well as famed negro writer Langston Hughes. “I’m an artist and an actor,” Rajee said. “You do not always have to do advocacy through picketing and protests.”

SouthFloridaGayNews // SFGN.com // 2.25.2015 //

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Submitted photos.

Winter Party Returns turns to Miami March 4-9

Christiana Lilly

Drinks, dancing, DJs — Winter Party Festival is back, and there’s a new face at the helm. Justin Bell, the new chairman of the festival, served as vice chairman under Victor Diaz-Herman last year. Bell is the founder and CEO of Arc+Arrow Creative Group in Miami’s Wynwood neighborhood. The festival, thrown by the National Gay and Lesbian Task Force, is from March 4 to 9 and will be hosted in various venues in Miami, Miami Beach, and Wilton Manors. Bell has also volunteered his marketing chops for the Miami Recognition Dinner, another event hosted by the Task Force. “It’s a party with a purpose and I believe in the purpose that the Task Force is striving to achieve,” Bell said of his new role. The Winter Party Festival, in its 21st

// 2.25.2015 // SFGN.com //

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year, is a fun-filled long weekend of nonstop parties and social gatherings, all raising money for local LGBT organizations and the Task Force. This year, the party returns to the Shelborne Wyndham Grand South Beach after it underwent a massive renovation. One of the festival's most highly anticipated events, the Under One Sun pool party, will be hosted there. The most popular is the beach party, which draws more than 6,000 revelers. There’s also lots of new items on the schedule. New activities include a partnership with the Miami International Film Festival, which runs the same weekend. The two organizations are teaming up for the world premiere of the Chilean gay film, “In the Grayscale.” It will be shown in Spanish with English subtitles. “We’re bringing together these

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synergies to provide additional programming for people that might not be interested in going out to a club or going out to a music-oriented event,” Bell said. Also, Winter Party is celebrating Bacardi, the Task Force’s national partner. In its 15th year, the company’s “Bacardi By Night” ads from 1998 will be on display at Cameo nightclub. The ads showcase young, sexy people being their real selves at night. Also, Joe Plana, Bacardi’s special events manager, is being honored at a VIP cocktail reception at a local Miami Beach mansion. While the event is by invitation, those who would like to attend can with a $100 donation. “We’re expecting sold out crowds once again this year, which is going to make for a great event,” Bell said. “I’m excited to see the smiles of our festival goers and our volunteers.”

feature

Winter Party Festival 2015 Schedule Wednesday, March 4 7 to 9:30 p.m. Spark!

The official start to the festivities, the hotel hosts a welcome reception and press launch with free bites and cocktails. Suggested donation $10 to The Gay & Lesbian Task Force. Gale South Beach and Regent Hotel, 1690 Collins Ave. in Miami Beach

Thursday, March 5 7 to 11 p.m.

ArtScape

Lovers of art will be treated to works by local artists, using the theme “Just Be...” for their inspiration, with a beautiful backdrop of the gardens. Enjoy hors d’oeuvres, cocktails, and a silent auction. Tickets $30 in advance and $40 at the door. Miami Beach Botanical Garden, 2000 Convention Center Drive in Miami Beach

10 p.m. to 5 a.m. Ignite

It’s not Winter Party without a raucous night of dancing! DJ Dan Slater of Australia and DJ Dani Toro from Spain will be working the turntables until the wee hours of the morning. Tickets $35. Cameo Nightclub, 1445 Washington Ave. in Miami Beach

Friday, March 6 2 to 8 p.m.

Elevate

A newly added event to the Winter Party line up, head to the rooftop of the hotel for music by DJs Carlos Rojas and Jailil Z with the ocean as your early party backdrop. Tickets $20. Hotel Victor, 1144 Ocean Drive in Miami Beach

7:30 to 10 p.m.

VIP Cocktail Reception

Joe Plana of Bacardi is being honored by the Taskforce at this special reception, with music, hors d’oeuvres, and Grey Goose open bar. Minimum donation $100. Bercu residence, 4475 N. Meridian Ave. in Miami Beach

9 p.m. to 3 a.m.

10 p.m. to 3 a.m.

PA’ELLA

Sweat

It’s all about the ladies at this party to kick off the weekend. Latin Grammy nominee, Leslie Cartaya, will be performing and DJ Inai Jimenez will work the turntables with addictive beats that’ll have you moving your hips all night long. Hush, 1661 Pennsylvania Ave. in Miami Beach

10 p.m. to 7 a.m. Pulse

Take over the club with DJs Abel and Ralphi Rosario, aka Rosabel, working the Space Terrace while DJs Power Infiniti and Nina Flowers, aka Flower Power, taking control of the Basement. Tickets $80. Club Space, 34 NE 11th St. in Miami

Saturday, March 7 Noon to 6 p.m.

Under One Sun

It’s not a Miami party until you’ve spent hours soaking in the sun. Lounge by the pool or splash around in the water while DJ Brett Henrichsen sets the tone for the afternoon. Tickets $75 to $2,000. Shelborne Wyndham Grand South Beach, 1801 Collins Ave. in Miami Beach

6:30 to 8:30 p.m.

“In the Grayscale” Film Screening

Winter Party coincides with the Miami International Film Festival -- catch a screening of this Chilean film about Bruno, who is separated from his wife, when he falls in love with his gay co worker. Film is in Spanish with English subtitles. Tickets $13. Regal Cinemas South Beach, 1120 Lincoln Road in Miami Beach.

8 to 10 p.m.

Kiehls 20/20

The skincare company is hosting a special shopping event with products 20 percent off and 20 percent of proceeds going to the Winter Party. Plus, Grey Goose cocktails, free healthy skin checks, art by VANDER, and other surprises. Kiehls, 540 Lincoln Road in Miami Beach

Head up to Broward for a night of raunchy, leather fun with DJ John LePage. Free. Hunters, 2232 Wilton Drive in Fort Lauderdale

10 p.m. to 3 a.m. Industry

The festival’s signature ladies event, DJ Crush will take care of the music -- it’s up to you to chat up that sexy single. Tickets $15. Cafeina, 297 NW 23rd St. in Miami

10 p.m. to 8 a.m. Energy

Voted the best nightclub in Miami-Dade by SFGN’s readers, Score hosts a night of fun with DJs Alain Jackinsky and Isaac Escalante in the main room and DJ Erez Ben Ishay in the downstairs dance floor. Tickets $85. Score, 1437 Washington Ave. in Miami Beach

Sunday, March 8 Noon to 7 p.m.

Beach Party

The most highly anticipated event of the entire festival, more than 6,000 people hit the beach for sun, dancing, and music by DJs Seth Cooper and Phil Romano. Tickets $110 to $5,000. Sands of South Beach at Lummus Park, 12th Street and Ocean Avenue in Miami Beach

10 p.m. to 5 a.m.

WE PARTY: Attacks

It’s intergalactic fun at the club with DJs Alyson Calagna and Micky Friedman -- think shirtless guys gyrating to the bass in this event that sells out every year. Tickets $90 to $1,000.

Monday, March 9 5 a.m. to Noon After Glow

Not enough partying for you? Say goodbye to Winter Party and head to the after party at Mekka for seven more hours of dancing and music before you call it quits. Tickets $50. Mekka Nightclub, 950 NE Second Ave. in Miami.

For more information on the Winter Party Festival, visit WinterParty.com. soflagaynews //

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column jesse’s journal

The Incredible Dolly Parton Jesse Monteagudo

f all musical genres, country music is the one that seems most willing to accommodate female stars. The greatest of them are the stuff that country dreams are made of: Patsy Cline, Loretta Lynn, Tammy Wynette and Reba McEntire. Though a case could be made for any of these ladies, in my opinion Dolly Parton is the greatest of them all. “Dolly Parton is the most famous, most universally beloved, and most widely respected woman who has ever emerged from country music, a role model not only for other singers and songwriters, but for working women everywhere,” wrote Mary A. Bufwack and Robert K. Oermann in “Finding Her Voice,” the definitive study of women in country music. “Hers is a true Horatio Alger, up-by-your-bootstraps success story - Daisy Mae Yokum of Dogpatch who turned into Mae West of Hollywood, a mountain butterfly who soared with eagles.” Like country music itself, Parton’s career is a balancing act between her down-home roots and her mainstream aspirations, between Daisy Mae Yokum and Mae West. Bufwack and Oermann described her public image as ‘possum-stew-and-Dom-Perignon,” while Parton herself called it “burlap and satin.” Her famous looks, which influenced her career as much as her music did, were a deliberate ploy to win attention from a general public that viewed country singers as illiterate hillbillies. Dolly wants to be heard, and if it takes a big blond wig and big tits to do it so be it: “It costs a lot to make a person look this cheap,” she famously said. Parton’s Southern floozy

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look also satisfies a deep-seated need to famously, “I Will Always Love You” (1974). be wildly extravagant, born perhaps of By 1977, Parton was ready to take off. She dropped Wagoner the singer’s childhood poverty. “If I were like a hot potato, hired the openly-gay Sandy Gallin as her a man I would have been a drag queen,” personal manager, and “went Hollywood” with the pop tune she added. “Here You Come Again.” Though Parton protested that “I Still, there’s more to Dolly Parton than am not leaving country music. All I want is a chance to do meets the eye. “Parton’s appeal came everything I want to do in life,” her down-home country fans through a fortuitous combination of found it hard to forgive. Though Parton had two number physical attractiveness, singing talent, one pop hits in the 1980's – “9 to 5” in 1981 and “Islands in and a genius for song composition,” wrote the Stream” (a duet with Kenny Rogers) in 1983, never again Bill C. Malone in his classic text “Country would she dominate the country charts the way she did Music U.S.A.” Her distinctive, “clear as a during the 1970's. bell” soprano combines with a unique gift In spite of her blowzy public persona, Parton is reticent for writing songs to make Parton a musical about her private life. Though she is still married to the force to be reckoned with. And while reclusive Carl Dean, the two lived apart for most of their Parton’s busty blonde looks are definitely union, and they have no children. When Parton moved to pre-feminist, she rightly became a role Hollywood in 1977 she left Dean in Tennessee and took her model for women during the early days of “best friend” Judy Ogle, which started rumors of lesbianism. the women’s movement. Though Parton denies that she is a lesbian, she is very “In contrast to the often tragic and gay friendly. Last year, in an interview for Britain’s Event always exhausting lives of so many female magazine, Parton expressed her support for marriage country singers, Dolly Parton somehow equality: “I think everyone should be with who they love. I always retained an impression of being don’t want to be controversial or stir up a bunch of trouble mistress of her own destiny, adapting, but people are going to love who they are going to love. I but never compromising, her style and think gay couples should be allowed to marry. They should material to suit the demands made of her,” suffer just like us heterosexuals.” Charlie Gillett wrote in “The Sound of the City.” Cline, Lynn Later last year, she spoke to Billboard about her gay and Wynette all had to endure drunk, abusive and unfaithful followers: “They know that I completely love and accept husbands. Parton’s husband, on the other hand, is Carl Dean, them, as I do all people. I’ve struggled enough in my life to who keeps to himself and lets his wife lead her own life. be appreciated and understood. I’ve had to go against all No matter how far away she gets, Parton always returns to kinds of people through the years just to be myself. I think her “Tennessee mountain home.” She was born on January everybody should be allowed to be who they are, and to 19, 1946, in a proverbial log cabin near Sevierville, the fourth love who they love.” At Dollywood, Parton’s theme park in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, same-sex couples and Southern of twelve children. While still a child, Parton began singing in churches and local theaters and (in 1959) fundamentalists come together in their mutual love for on Knoxville radio. In 1964 she graduated from high the country star. school - the first in her family to do so - and moved “Once upon a time and far, far away, back in the to Nashville. By 1966 she had married Carl Dean, hollers at the foothills of the great Smoky Mountains signed with Monument Records, and had her first of East Tennessee there lived a little girl with yellow hit (the ironically-titled “Dumb Blonde”). She also hair, blue-green eyes, fair skin, and freckles. She loved caught the eye of established country singer Porter Wagoner, to read almost as much as she loved to dream. She read who hired her to replace Norma Jean as the “girl singer” on everything she could get her hands on, but mostly she loved his syndicated TV show. As part of her partnership with fairy tales. So I grew up to be a fairy princess of a sort, more Wagoner, Parton signed with his record label, RCA, in 1967. of a Cinderella story, the rags to riches kind.” Though she In 1969 she joined the Grand Ole Opry. no longer rules the country charts, Parton has retained the The years of the Wagoner-Parton partnership, which public’s love and respect. In 1999 she was inducted into the she insists was platonic but which he claims had a sexual Country Music Hall of Fame and continues to please fans dimension, were also her most productive. In addition to a and critics alike with her music, concerts, television and string of duets with Porter, Dolly ruled the country charts movie appearances. Whatever her ups and downs, Parton’s with a series of songs she wrote that pushed the boundaries career is not over yet. of country music: “Just Because I’m a Woman” Jesse Monteagudo is a freelance writer and journalist. He has been an active member (1967), ”Joshua” (1971), “Coat of South Florida’s LGBT community for more than four decades and has served in of Many Colors” (1972), various community organizations. “Jolene” (1973) and, most

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SouthFloridaGayNews // SFGN.com // 2.25.2015 //

column publisher’s editorial

Norm Kent

‘The Imitation Game’ Writer Mirrors Real Life

norm.kent@sfgn.com

Ah, Hollywood! The Oscars! The excitement, the drama, the competition- and that’s just trying to find a parking space within six blocks of the Red Carpet. Winning an Oscar gives an artist sixty seconds to make a political statement in the international spotlight. Sunday was such an evening, with calls for racial equality, pay parity for women, raised awareness for Alzheimer’s, and one young man’s riveting and emotional call to help end teen suicides. Screenwriter Graham Moore captured the hearts of the Academy during his acceptance speech for penning the Best Adapted Screenplay for the film ‘The Imitation Game.’ He used his moment to address young men and women who feel isolated and alone, who feel like they are outsiders. He told them they all would eventually be OK. It was his selfgenerated version of an “It Gets Better” speech, and it hit a home run at the Oscars. Moore began in a brutally honest way, saying he attempted suicide when he was 16 because he felt “weird” and “different,” adding “I would like for this moment to be for that kid out there who feels like she’s weird or she’s different or she doesn’t fit in anywhere.” To a standing ovation, he concluded: “Yes, you do. I promise you do. Stay weird, stay different.” Someday, he said, that same outcast would have a stage of their own. The LGBT community was once an outcast, even in Hollywood. Many in the audience related well to his talk. In the media crush that followed, Moore, 34, told interviewers that he has lived with ‘depression’ almost every day of his life. The young man, who attended the awards ceremony with his mother, also clarified later to Buzzfeed: “I’m not gay, but I’ve never talked publicly about depression before or any of that, and that was so much of what the movie was about, and it was one of the things that drew me to Alan Turing so much. I think we all feel like weirdos for different reasons. Alan had his share of them and I had my own, and that’s what always moved me so much about his story.” Whatever. Moore, who grew up in a very middle class environment as the son of divorced Chicago lawyers told Access Hollywood he was obsessed with the story of Alan Turing “ever since he was a teenager.” Regardless, Moore, standing in the Governor’s Ball at the close of the Oscar ceremony, told reporters “Turing was a tremendous hero of mine. Alan always seemed like the outsider’s outsider in his own time for so many reasons. Because he was the smartest man in every room that he entered. Because he was a gay man at a time when that was not simply frowned upon, but also illegal. And then, because he was keeping all these secrets for the government.” Moore then added that he admired Turing because “he was a guy who was apart from society for so many different reasons, but because he was apart from society he was able to see the world in a way that no one else had, and I found that incredibly inspirational.” Who was Alan Turing then? He was a pioneering British computer scientist, logician, mathematician, and

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a remarkable cryptanalyst who developed a machine that deciphered a Nazi code. His discovery and persistence are today celebrated as a critical factor in enabling Allied Forces to defeat Hitler’s army. He was not always so appreciated. In 1952, Turing was prosecuted in Great Britain for engaging in homosexual acts. It was still a crime, and as an alternative to prison, he accepted chemical castration as a penalty. Along with electro shock therapy, those kinds of penalties were routine. In 1954, at age 41, he committed suicide. As Graham Moore stated in his acceptance speech, Turing never got a stage to speak on; never a medal to hold. ‘The Imitation Game’ is a powerful movie chronicling the achievements of Alan Turing during his lifetime. Everyone in the LGBT community should see and appreciate the film. Like so many others, Turing lived as a gay man in the shadows, winning credibility for what he did with his clothes on in the daytime. He was not rewarded for whom he slept with at night. Turing was pardoned for his crimes only two years ago, in 2013, by Queen Elizabeth II. A compelling Hollywood movie will now forever give life to his name. Moore’s used his speech to briefly shine a light on teen suicide, depression and bullying. For that, we should all be grateful. That is also a Hollywood moment that will live for ages. Regardless of Moore’s sexuality he brought international attention to young and frightened LGBT youth who still struggle daily with alienation and isolation. It should not be that way. We don’t want it to be that way. We hope in the future it won’t be that way. Look at Neil Patrick Harris, the popular and first openly gay male Oscar host. It does not have to be that way. Being unique, weird, or different should be a cause for celebration. Diversity is the essence of life; to understand that the rubber band expands to include everyone — not to tie out anyone. You don’t have to fit in. You just need to be as good as you can be. The America we must work for applauds differences and celebrates all the colors of the rainbow. We respect individuality and foster differences. We don’t control or contain them. We create and countenance freedom of the spirit. Being different does not mean you are weird. It means you are you, and nothing can be healthier. What we have in common is that we are all unique. “This above all,” Shakespeare wrote in Hamlet, “to thine ownself be true, and it must follow, as the night the day, thou canst not be false to any man.”

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Graham Moore

Alan Turing

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column transforming gender

The Edge of the Knife Rebecca Juro

rjuroshow@gmail.com

Before I came out and began living as a woman almost 18 years ago, I never really gave much serious thought to whether or not I wanted Gender Realignment Surgery (GRS). I was working in retail and getting by, but not so well that coming up with twenty thousand dollars or more to get my genitalia refurbished seemed like a realistic possibility. I don’t need surgery to be who I am, I told myself, I’m a woman no matter what’s between my legs. My gender identity and sense of selfworth don’t depend upon the configuration of my genitalia, but rather upon the configuration of my mind. I told myself these things, and I believed them. In all honesty, I still do. And yet, for me all of these undeniable truths still added up to a lie. A little over a year ago, I came into some money. The GRS that had seemed like a pipe dream to me for so long had suddenly become affordable. Knowing that completely rocked my world. Many trans people in my position would have rushed to schedule a surgery date, but I didn’t. I’d spent the last 17 years telling anyone who would listen that I’d be just fine without GRS, but now that I had the money it was the first thing I thought about spending it on. What did that say about me? About everything I believed about myself and the kind of woman I am? About my entire belief system regarding what it is to be trans? Am I really, in my heart of hearts, one of those people who equates the legitimacy of trans identity with the surgical status of the body? I couldn’t help asking myself those questions, and it took a long time to find the answers. In addition, I had to answer one more key question, the one upon which all the other answers depend: Is GRS for me a want or a need? Was I right when I claimed I didn’t need GRS to live a happy life as a woman? Or was my instinct right when the first thing I thought about after coming into that money was spending a significant chunk of it on GRS? I was forced to reexamine everything, in some ways my entire personal rationale of who I am and what I want out of life. It took me over

a year to work it all out, but here’s what I came up with: It’s not a matter of legitimacy, it’s a matter of comfort and happiness, of self-care. It’s not about qualifying under someone else’s definition of what it is to be a woman, it’s about what I want for myself and how close to that ideal I’m able to come. It’s also about realizing that I’m almost 53 years old, and I want the rest of my life to be the very best it can possibly be. I think I’ve earned that. I had to admit to myself that it’s OK to be selfish in this, to want the best for myself. I also had to come to the understanding that I can’t be at my very best in other aspects of my life if I deny myself happiness and make excuses for not taking care of my own needs to the best of my ability. Yes, I said “needs.” Could I survive without GRS for the rest of my life? Yes. I’ve done it for 18 years as an out trans woman and for many years previously while still in the closet. I could do it, but that’s not the real issue. The real issue is could I be happy knowing I could get GRS if I wanted it but didn’t take advantage of the opportunity to make it happen? The answer to that question was the one that took me over a year figure out and it’s a resounding “No!” Yes, I could live and survive as a non-op, just as I have all these years, but it would always be a lesser happiness, an almost-but-not-quitethere happiness, the kind of happiness that feels warm to the touch but never comforts me as fully and completely as I know it could. As a trans community activist and media maker, I spend a lot of time thinking about what I can do to help make things better for other trans people. I’ve had to realign my thinking and realize that in order to be a good activist and advocate for others, sometimes it’s necessary to take care of myself first. And so, I’ve put the wheels in motion toward scheduling a GRS date sometime this spring. There will be medical tests and all kinds of notso-fun things culminating in lots of pain. I feel warmer already.

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

// 2.25.2015 // SFGN.com //

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lifestyle history

HOMO HISTORY 101 BLACK HISTORY MONTH

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Josephine Baker (1906 –1975) was an African-American dancer, singer, and actress who came to be known in various circles as the "Black Pearl," "Bronze Venus" and even the "Creole Goddess.” Born Freda Josephine McDonald in St. Louis, Missouri, she became a citizen of France in 1937. In Paris, she was an instant success for her erotic dancing and for appearing practically nude on stage. After a successful tour of Europe, she returned to France to star at the Folies Bergère, setting the standard for her future acts. Baker was married four times. During Baker's work with the Civil Rights Movement she began adopting children, forming a family she often referred to as “The Rainbow Tribe.” Josephine wanted to prove that "children of different ethnicities and religions could still be brothers. Her adopted son Jean-Claude Baker describes his mother as a bisexual, having had relationships with men and women. Sahara Davenport (born Antoine Ashley, 1984 –2012) was an African-American drag

queen, singer, a reality television personality and a classically trained dancer. He was best known as a contestant on the second season of RuPaul's Drag Race. A native of Dallas, Davenport began his drag career while attending Southern Methodist University. After earning a Bachelor of Fine Arts in dance, he relocated to NYC, where he began performing regularly at many gay bars and nightclubs throughout the city. Davenport died in 2012 of heart failure. He was 27. Prior to his death he lived in NY with his boyfriend Karl Westerberg (Manila Luzon), who was a contestant and runner-up on the third season of RuPaul's Drag Race.

Jason Barlett served for two years as the country's only openly gay, black legislator. He also worked for the National Black Justice Coalition.

Angela Davis (January 26, 1944) is an African-American political activist, scholar, and author. She emerged as a prominent counterculture activist and radical in the 1960s as a leader of the Communist Party USA, and had close relations with the Black Panther Party through her involvement in the Civil Rights Movement. She founded Critical Resistance, an organization working to abolish the prisonindustrial complex. She is a retired professor with the History of Consciousness Department at the University of California, Santa Cruz, and a former director of the university's Feminist Studies department. The Rolling Stones song "Sweet Black Angel" released in 1972 is dedicated to Davis and is one of the band's few overtly political releases. John Lennon recorded "Angela" on the 1972 album Some Time in New York City . She came out as a lesbian in 1997. The Lady Chablis (March 11, 1957) is an African-American drag queen entertainer. Chablis became famous in the early 1990s when she was featured as one of Savannah’s colorful characters in John Berendt’s book “Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil,” based on a true crime story. In the book, Chablis and her larger-than-life adventures provided a counterbalance to the darker narrative of murder that was central to the book. Chablis played herself in the 1997 movie of the same title, directed by Clint Eastwood and starring Kevin Spacey and John Cusack. Chablis made several appearances on talk shows when the book and the movie were released. She still performs at her "home" the Club One in Savannah and continues to travel the U.S. performing at various venues including The Alibi in Wilton Manors, special events, and gay pride gatherings.

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bassist, and vocalist. Her music incorporates a wide variety of influences, including funk, soul, jazz, hip-hop, reggae and rock. She has had ten career Grammy Award nominations and has been credited for having “sparked the neo-soul movement.” Ndegeocello is bisexual and previously had a relationship with feminist author Rebecca Walker. 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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Meshell Ndegeocello (August 29, 1968) is an African-American singer-songwriter, rapper,

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lifestyle photojournalism

Cheyenne Jackson

A star strikes South Florida with a stunning performance J. R. Davis

Below: Bria

Seth Rudetsky

nt (left) an

d Axel

Cheyenne Jackson soflagaynews //

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lifestyle food

Top 5

Bagels 101

Rick Karlin Let’s be clear about a couple of things; true bagels are not those hockey pucks you buy frozen at the grocery stores. Nor do they come in Frankenbagel flavors such as maple-pumpkin, blueberry or pomegranate. Those flavors are fine for doughnuts, but bagels tend to be savory (the one exception is cinnamon-raisin-but even that’s pushing it). Many who come to South Florida from a northern city with a sizable Jewish population bemoan the fact that there aren’t any good bagels down here. They just don’t where to look. The bagels will be slightly different in each area of the country due to the quality of the water, even though the basic

bagel recipe may be the same. Bagels are primarily made from flour, water and after rising, the bagel is then boiled before it is baked. The two-step method of cooking gives a bagel its distinctive glossy surface and chewy texture. A true bagel also uses malt barley syrup in its recipe which is what give a bagel its, well there’s no other word than “bagelness.” In the end what matters is how the bagel tastes and while no bagel here is exactly the same as in NYC or Chicago, that doesn’t mean that there aren’t terrific bagels to be found. I’ve sampled bagels from all over South Florida and these are among the best:

Brooklyn Water Bagel 2878 Stirling Rd. Hollywood (multiple locations) 954-965-5920 BrooklynWaterBagels.com

Sage Bagel & Appetizer Shop 800 E Hallandale Beach Blvd. Hallandale Beach 954-456-7499 SageBagelAndDeli.com

These folks use a proprietary water treatment system called “Brooklyn Water Works” which the company claims enables them to replicate the “natural composition of the water that flows from the Catskill Mountains in upstate New York into the homes of Brooklyn residents.” I don’t know how true that is, but the bagels sure taste like NYC bagels! That water also makes for some pretty terrific coffee. There are about a dozen locations including Boca, Boynton Beach, Delray and Palm Beach Gardens, but the Stirling location offers the opportunity to watch the bagels being prepared.

Started 40 years ago, Sage is still in a single location and everything is made from scratch. This is a true Mom and Pop organization, founded and run by Milton and Iris Fuerst. As they’ve gotten older the couple may not be as active in the day to day operations, but the kids and grandkids have stepped in so Sage is always supervised by a family member. Breakfast and lunch are served daily and the deli counter is open until 6 p.m. There are a variety of bagel platters and the lox version is a deal at less than $16 (with enough for two if you order an extra bagel.) The whitefish salad is out of this world.

Bagel Boyz 11300 Legacy Ave. Palm Beach Gardens (multiple locations) 561-296-2917 Bagel-Boyz.com What started as a family-owned storefront has evolved into a mini-chain (there are also stores in Jupiter and West Palm Beach). While I’m always suspicious of a Jewish deli that offers a BLT, much less spells “boyz” in such a trendy manner, I have to admit the bagels are pretty terrific. The lox and cream cheese are very good as well. And, how could you not love a place that also makes doggie bagels?

Pomperdale New York Style Deli, 3055 E. Commercial Blvd. Fort Lauderdale 954-771-9830 PomperdaleDeli.us About as close as you can get to an authentic New York Jewish deli (the counter folks are just a tad too pleasant to pass for New Yorkers). The lox is hand sliced, the chicken soup tastes better than my mother’s. The kugel and the knishes are to die for.

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Bagel Snack 1237 Powerline Rd. Pompano Beach 954-974-4564 BagelSnack.com This isn’t the slickest place. To quote the web site “We offer a selection of fresh baked pastries, rolls, cakes and of coarse (sic) fresh bagels every day. All baking done on premise.” But, it’s those last five words that matter, even if the grammar and spelling are wrong. The bagels are usually warm, fresh out of the oven and always fresh and perfectly made. It’s only open until 3 p.m., so don’t dawdle. If you decide to dine in at this reasonably priced, oldschool deli/restaurant, the waitresses (certainly not something as fancy as “servers”) might call you “Honey.” If you order after 11 a.m., you’ll get a complimentary bowl of “healthy salad” (cole slaw with a sweet and sour vinegar base) and pickles.

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sen? who will bAnenualcOUhT o 50 Issue Find out in SFGN's th , 2015 4 ch r ma

Photo by Stephen Shires. Don't ask him, he's not telling who they are.

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A UNIQUE PROGRAM TO HELP THOSE NEWLY DIAGNOSED WITH

HIV/AIDS OR HAVE FALLEN OUT OF CARE

Care Resource’s Patient Connector program supports those clients in South Florida who are newly diagnosed with HIV/ AIDS, have fallen out of medical care or are facing obstacles to engage in medical care, such as language barriers, literacy, mental health, substance abuse, financial issues, homelessness and relocation. This program not only provides these clients with the resources to meet their needs and to decrease those barriers, but it provides them with a supportive system focused on empowerment, self-sufficiency and a healthy/productive lifestyle. This program is part of a national effort called “High Impact Prevention.” The objective is to utilize treatment and adherence to medical treatment to improve the lives of those infected with HIV/AIDs and to reduce the possibility that someone who’s infected with will pass it on to someone else. Those whose viral loads are undetectable are far less likely to transmit the HIV virus to anyone else. Treatment works, we want to make sure that anyone who wants treatment can get it. High Impact Prevention is one strategy Care Resource is using in conjunction with the Broward County Health Department to reduce the infection rates in Broward County. Strict adherence to HIV medications is key to sustained HIV suppression, reduced risk of drug resistance, improved overall health, quality of life, and survival as well

as decreased risk of HIV transmission. Conversely, poor adherence is the major cause of therapeutic failure. Achieving adherence is a critical determinant of long-term outcome in HIV infected patients. If a client is homeless, the Patient Connector program can help them receive assistance from HOPWA (Housing Opportunities for Persons With AIDS). This program provides clients with resources towards permanent housing. In case of emergencies, Care Resource’s Patient Connector staff can form partnerships with local providers to help a client be placed in a safe environment. Clients in need of medical assistance can be assisted with documentation, insurance coverage/eligibility (Ryan White), medical appointments and medication assistance. According to Patricia Gustafsson, Clinical Counselor with Care Resource, “Many minority groups in Broward county struggle to find resources available to them. They face language barriers, stigma, lack of information regarding HIV diagnosis and its resources. Fortunately, the peers within this program have the resources to aid these groups. In fact, services are even available for those with HIV/AIDS who are not permanent residents or American citizens.” In addition to medical assistance, clients in the program can receive counseling when it comes to mental health and substance abuse. “

According to statistics from the Department of Health, in 2013, the population of HIV positive individuals in Florida is identified as:

43% African American 30% Caucasian

26% Hispanic 1% multi-races

In Florida, the number of HIV-related deaths in 2013 decreased by78% since the peak year in 1995, yet increased by 1.3% from the previous year. Since 2007, deaths have maintained a downward trend. However, in Florida as of 2013, African Americans still constitute a majority of HIV-related deaths (58%, 540 of 935 deaths). Meanwhile, Hispanics constitute a lower proportion of HIV-related deaths (12%, 116 of 935 deaths). The five leading counties in Florida reporting the highest number of HIV cases in 2013 were:

1. 2. 3.

Miami-Dade (N=1,436) Broward (N=1,044) Orange (N=470)

4. 5.

Palm Beach (N=414) Hillsborough (N=403)

Broward County was the 2nd leading county with newly diagnosed HIV/AIDS cases in 2013. These bleak numbers do not have to be a reality as the Patient Connector program can provide the local resources like medical care, medication management and case management that can assist clients. For more information regarding Care Resource’s Patient Connector program, contact Patricia Gustafsson at (954) 567-7141 Ext 128 or Ext 108. Email: pgustafsson@careresource.org

ABOUT CARE RESOURCE Care Resource is a Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC) that provides comprehensive primary medical and preventive care, including health, oral and mental health/substance abuse services to all individuals in our community. For more information visit, www.careresource.org.

// 2.25.2015 // SFGN.com //

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This content was paid for by Care Resource.

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lifestyle dating

Your Guide to LGBTQAA

Dating in College

Nicole Wiesenthal

After years of attending all of those other weddings...

Photo: JAG Studios www.jagstudios.net

it is finally time for you to say

On your big day – be it a wedding, black-tie gala, or corporate event – I DO, Custom Events is your gay owned-and-operated, boutique event planner, here in Fort Lauderdale or at the fabulous destination of your dreams. You do you, and we do the rest. . www.IDOcustomevents.com (954) 626-0131 36

// 2.25.2015 // SFGN.com //

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College is tough. Throw dating into the mix and college life can get especially complicated, especially if you identify as transgender, agender (not identifying as any gender), asexual (not sexually attracted to any gender) or another sexual minority. There are many ways you can find love and your potential partner on a college campus. Below are a few tips. Joining an advocacy group can make it easier to find someone who’s attracted to you. You can find people who accept you in discussion groups, at LGBT-oriented bars and on the Internet. Most colleges offer discussion groups for transgender people, queer women and LGBT students who are new to the school, says LB Hannahs, the director of the University of Florida LGBT Affairs office. Students can find people like themselves, learn about safe dating and sex and, most importantly, feel comfortable being themselves. But Reilly Clemens, a transgender women’s studies student at UF, suggests finding someone online. “If you put a message on your page and forge carefully, almost any site will work,” she says. Most sites don’t let users specify trans status, which Elizabeth Brosseau, a 19-yearold biomedical engineering major at the University of Southern California, found out quickly. She heard her friend complaining about the lack of bisexual options on JDate and looked up the profile options for the 15 most popular dating sites. Her results showed that only three sites had options for bisexuals (OKCupid, Badoo and HowAboutWe). Only OKCupid offered gender options outside of male or female, she found. None of the sites had options for

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romantic asexuals, which would allow users to specify whether or not they were interested in a sexual relationship. Clemens doesn’t see the lack of options as a problem. She suggests using settings, which allow you to regulate who can view your profile. “A trick is to go ahead and make sure that it’s on your page if you’re only seeking people who accept you,” she says. “It’s a very safe place to be vehemently out, especially because you can put a picture of a flower and control access to people identifying you with that trans status.” Clemens also says it’s safer to talk to people online for a while before meeting them and to meet them in a crowded place during the day. If dating sites aren’t your thing, Clemens says she’s able to meet a lot of people in everyday life just by being confident and comfortable with herself. “The number one thing to do to meet someone who’s accepting of you as a person,” she says, “is to be yourself, work on being comfortable with yourself and be proud of who you are regardless of where you are.” Hannahs says it’s also important to know what you want. “Be honest with yourself and really know where you’re at and what you want out of a relationship and partnership,” she said, “and don’t feel pressured to date someone or to be to a certain stereotype.” Morgann Ramirez, a romantic asexual from USC, says understanding her needs was key to her happiness in college. “I used to think I was broken and other people could see it and avoided me,” she said. “But then I realized my brain just didn’t process sexuality the way other people did. I decided that I would only have a relationship with someone who could understand that.”

lifestyle books 'Soldier of Change: From the Closet to the Forefront of the Gay Rights Movement' By: Stephen Snyder-Hill, foreword by George Takei

Terri Schlichenmeyer

$22.95 / higher in Canada 198 pages c.2014, Potomac Books

The phone call began another very long day. It arrived approximately ten seconds after you walked to your desk, the first of that kind of interruption, followed by dozens of urgent (to the sender) emails and six cubicle drop-bys. Alas, you didn’t get much done that day. Sometimes, you just want to be left alone to do your work and live your life. Other times, as in the new book “Soldier of Change” by Stephen Snyder-Hill, you need to stand up and speak out. Growing up in small-town Ohio , Stephen Snyder-Hill says he’d always felt “this darkness I couldn’t understand.” His mother also noticed it, but he couldn’t explain to her that he loathed himself. “When people say that being gay is a choice,” he says, “I always remember trying to unchoose it.” That didn’t work, though he spent his teen years trying to be like other guys, trying to work through the shame he felt. Nearing graduation, he started thinking about joining the military; he came from a long line of soldiers and enlisting seemed like a good way to pay for college. He was first stationed in Germany, then went to Iraq as a “fire support specialist.” That was where he started journaling and where, following a friendly-fire near-miss, he decided that he was “going to finally start living my life for myself.” That included embracing his sexuality. After leaving the army, Snyder-Hill began the slow process of coming out and he started “feeling like maybe… my purpose on this earth was to be exactly who I am.” He graduated from college and, realizing that he missed the military, he re-upped – just

before “Don’t Ask Don’t Tell” went into “full effect…” Knowing that the military would, in essence, force him to become a “professional liar,” Snyder-Hill kept quiet about his sexuality. He endured indirect taunts from fellow soldiers and he learned to hide his love of and marriage to another man. Finally, fed up and coincidentally presented with a chance to ask a question of the 2012 Republican candidates in a national debate, he crafted a query he thought might change things. And, he says, “I hit send.” I liked “Soldier of Change,” but not just because of what author Stephen SnyderHill says. I liked the way he says it. Reading this book is kind of like having a beer with a buddy. It’s chatty rather than stuffy with a bit of brevity sprinkled here and there, yet Snyder-Hill’s outrage comes through loud and clear as he takes his story further, writing about life as a gay man during DADT days, his activism, and the work he’s done on behalf of gay and lesbian soldiers. This book is genuine, and I liked that, too. I think this is an important story to read if you need to know where LGBT rights have been and who’s brought them forward. It’s also one to enjoy if you want an informal, easy-to-like memoir. Even in this postDADT time, “Soldier of Change” is a book to call for.

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F O R

SFGNITES

T H E

J.W. Arnold

jw@prdconline.com

THU

THEATER

W E E K

O F

2/26

F E B R U A R Y

2 6

M A R C H

3 ,

2 0 1 4

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

Cheyenne Jackson and Gena Rowlands star in a touching story of unexpected friendship in “Six Dance Lessons in Six Weeks,” opening this weekend at local theaters.

Slow Burn Theatre Co. opens its second show of the season in the Broward Center’s Abdo New River Room, with the charming musical “The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee,” tonight through April 19. No matter how you spell it, this Tony winner is H-I-L-A-R-I-O-U-S. Arrive early and enjoy tasty a la carte small plates and cocktails. This is the perfect show to take the company seeking to escape the winter up north with a visit to South Florida. Tickets are $45 at BrowardCenter.org.

FRI FILM

2/27

It’s date night, so take your special someone to see “Six Dance Lessons in Six Weeks” at the Classic Gateway in Fort Lauderdale, Cinema Paradiso – Hollywood and Living Room theaters in Delray and Lake Worth. Hollywood legend Gena Rowlands stars as a crusty Florida retiree who unexpectedly develops a surprising relationship with her dance partner, a younger gay man portrayed by Cheyenne Jackson, in a heartwarming tale of friendship. Check local listings for show times.

SAT

COMEDY

2/28 SUN

Wanda Sykes has been called "one of the funniest stand-up comics" by her peers and ranks among the “Entertainment Weekly” Funniest People in America. Her smartwitted stand up bites and we still love her performances on “The New Adventures of Old Christine.” Sykes brings her jokes to South Florida for one performance, Saturday, Feb. 28 at 8 p.m. at the Olympia Theater at the Gusman Center, 174 E. Flagler St. in Miami. Tickets are $39.50 - $95 at OlympiaTheater. org.

Photography by Ian L. Sitren. Credit: Dada Films

// 2.25.2015 // SFGN.com //

CONCERT

3/1 MON

CONCERT

Saturday at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday at 4 p.m., Broadway legend Tommy Tune takes the stage at the Wold Performing Arts Center at Lynn University in Boca Raton. Performing in Libby Dodson’s popular Live at Lynn theater series, the multiple Tony Award winner will entertain in his signature style and get audiences tapping their toes and humming along to popular show tunes from the Great American Songbook. Tickets are $45 - $65 at Event.Lynn.edu.

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3/2 TUE

The U.S. Navy Band’s Sea Chanters will have you standing and saluting with a concert of traditional works for mixed chorus, as well as patriotic numbers, tonight at 7:30 p.m. in the Coral Springs Center for the Arts, 2855 Coral Springs Drive. The Sea Chanters, the official chorus of the Navy, will also be performing in Hollywood on March 1 at the Arts Park Amphitheater. Both performances are free and open to the public. Call 954-344-5999 or go to CoralSpringsCenterForTheArts.org for tickets.

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CABARET

3/3

A musical legend, Mary Wilson, returns to the Royal Room cabaret at the Colony Hotel, 155 Hamman Ave. in Palm Beach. With an unprecedented 12 number-one hits, including “Where Did Our Love Go,” “Baby Love” and “Stop, In The Name Of Love,” The Supremes set the precedent for success. But, Wilson is a star in her own right and a vibrant performer on the stage. There is a $90 - $110 cover charge, plus food and beverage minimum. For reservations, go to TheColonyHotel.com.

Timeless

Join us on March 13, 2015 for a look into Thirteen.Three An art installation about suicide and it’s collateral damage.

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

Vip Opening 3. 13. 2015 8 p.m. to 11:30 p.m. By Invitation Only

Open to the Public March 14 to April 12th 2015

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

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a&e film

James Franco Gets Kinky Gay friendly actor/director produces documentary on Kink.com

David-Elijah Nahmod

James Franco, the producer of “Kink,” admitted in several interviews that it was his visit to a porn/fetish set which inspired the making of the film “Kink.” Franco, an acclaimed actor who has lent his name to a number of gay themed films, said that the most fascinating aspect of his peek inside the studios of fetish auteurs Kink.com was how similar the onset dynamics were to what he saw back stage when he hosted Saturday Night Live. Everyone Franco met at Kink.com's San Francisco headquarters was there to produce the best possible product. Though models were often tied up and beaten on camera, they were all there by choice — this was what they wanted to do. All scenes were discussed and carefully rehearsed prior to filming — models were questioned as to what they were comfortable with and which acts they were willing to perform. Franco soon returned to the Kink studios with a documentary film crew in tow. Kink.com is one of the porn world's most popular and successful producers of fetish porn. The company is headquartered in one of San Francisco's most historic buildings —the 100 year old Armory, which was once the home of the SF National Guard. Playboy Magazine reports that the Armory has also served as a sound stage for some of Star Wars' interior shots.

James Franco

“Kink,” the film, is graphic, and may shock people who aren't into the fetish lifestyle. During one sequence, a model is hung upside down via chains, her legs "forcibly" spread wide apart. But, as we soon see, her director is quite attentive of her needs and of her well being — she is asked in between shots if she's OK. She and other models can call cut at any time. Director Christina Voros moves between gay and straight fetish sets. On both sides, the atmosphere is laid back and respectful. Some of the models speak about their choices: a gay model hopes to become a Yoga instructor. A straight female model speaks lovingly about her three school-aged children. Throughout the proceedings, all the models make it clear that they are there because they want to be there. They can walk out the door at any time. Tomcat, a female-to male transgender director, speaks eloquently about the misguided notion that models need to be “protected.” Voros offers no judgements, but simply shows what is. When Kink CEO Peter Ackworth takes Voros on a tour of the building, or when Voros points her camera at a production meeting, we see that Kink is first and foremost a business, run like any other. Yet the S&M stigma remains. "If this were high school, we'd be the Goth kids," observes one director.

Kink is now available on DVD. 42

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a&e theater

From Cats Lady to Cowgirl Tony-winner Betty Buckley brings her ‘Voice of Broadway’ to Miami Beach

Mary Damiano Betty Buckley’s career is the stuff Broadway musicals are made of. On her very first day in New York City in 1969, the Texas native was cast in the very first role for which she auditioned, originating Martha Jefferson in the Broadway musical “1776.” Since then, Buckley has forged a career across the genres. Some people know her as kind step-mom Abby Bradford from “Eight is Enough.” Others recognize her from her work on the HBO prison drama “Oz,” or for her film work, which includes “Tender Mercies and Carrie.” Broadway fans know her for starring as silent screen star Norma Desmond in “Sunset Boulevard” and her Tony-winning performance of glamorous Grizabella in “Cats,” in which she sang the haunting “Memory.” “People say it’s my signature song. I’m fortunate to even have a signature song, but that its ‘Memory’ is great. I’ve never grown tired of it.” Fans can experience a different aspect of this multi-talented performer, who has been dubbed ‘The Voice of Broadway,’ when Buckley performs at The Colony Theatre in Miami Beach Feb. 27 and 28, part of The Colony’s South Beach Broadway Series. Buckley’s concert at the Colony will feature songs from her latest CD, “Ghostlight,” which was produced by the legendary T Bone Burnett. The two grew up together in Texas, and Burnett made the first recording of Buckley’s voice when she was 19. They made an archive tape of that recording which was released in 2007 with the title “Betty Buckley 1967.” “They called it the first record I never had,” Buckley says. Burnett wanted to make another record, so he and Buckley teamed up for “Ghostlight,” a collection of standards and Broadway songs as well as contemporary pieces, including “Blue Skies, If You Go Away, Body and Soul,” and a haunting rendition of “This Nearly Was Mine” from South Pacific. Buckley’s live performances include guest appearances with several gay men’s choruses, including those in Dallas and San Francisco. “I’ve been very blessed by the attentions of my gay audience and friends. They’ve supported me tremendously throughout my career.” Buckley was living in New York City on Sept. 11, 2001. She says that in the aftermath

Betty Buckley. Submitted Photo.

of that tragedy she felt lost for the first time in her life, and found that nothing inspired her. She found new inspiration in horses, rediscovering her childhood dream of owning her own horse. She connected with a trainer who helped her find and buy a cutting horse, and then commuted between New York and Texas. “It changed my life, and I realized one night after I came home from teaching in New York that I needed to live where my horse lives,” she says. Now Buckley lives on a ranch near Fort Worth, which she shares with her four horses, a donkey and a collection of rescue animals. “I know I need to always live with horses,” she says. “They soothe my soul. When I’m conflicted I go out to the barn and it calms me right down. I didn’t have that for years. Everything was work, work, work. Now I work so I can do this.” But Buckley, who is 67, has no plans of giving up her performance career. She tells of giving a pep talk to an actress friend, who was thinking about retiring. “I want to work as long as I can work,” Buckley says. “We’re so afraid of our aging process. Life is very interesting at every stage of life, and every stage of life has its own blessing and the potential for inspiration, if you allow it to be that way.”

Betty Buckley will perform at The Colony Theatre, 1040 Lincoln Road, February 27 and 28, part of the South Beach Broadway Series. For tickets and more information, call 305434-7091 or visit ColonyTheatreMiamiBeach.com. soflagaynews //

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a&e theater

Play Looks Back at Seedy Side of the Big Apple J.W. Arnold

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Larsen reworked the book, cut some characters and a more manageable set was designed. The cast includes familiar South Florida actors, along with several fresh faces. A friend of Larsen, a Los Angeles-based casting director, actually cast many of the actors via Internet. “I really like the cast. All the strippers are kind of novices, but they’re like their characters in the play,” he said, pointing out there is full frontal nudity in the show. Not all the performers are gay, either, just like many real life sex workers who are “gay for pay.” In addition to “All-Male Peep Show,” Larsen is also bringing “The Penis Talk Show” to Empire Stage for two performances on Wednesdays, March 11 and 18. Unlike the play, this show is largely improvised and Larsen serves as the “emcee.” Three men will be seated naked on the stage with a curtain that covers their faces and protects their anonymity. The audience is then invited to ask the men just about anything. “They’re not actors, just regular guys,” he explained. “Nothing is scripted and I can’t believe the shit people ask. Eventually, the audience ends up divulging their secrets, too.” In Empire Stage’s intimate space, there’s nowhere to hide, but he promises the show is always funny. Just don’t be too shy.

Ronnie Larsen’s “All-Male Peep Show” will be presented March 5 – April 12 at Empire Stage, 1140 N. Flagler Dr. in Fort Lauderdale. Tickets are $30 at EmpireStage.com.

Nationally Accredited Treatment Center

Anyone who has visited Times Square in New York City can attest to the power of corporate America. Disney reigns at the Broadway box office as busloads of tourists crowd “The Lion King” and “Aladdin.” Giant flashing billboards advertise big brands like Sony and Calvin Klein. Retailers from The Gap to Toys R Us operate mobbed flagship stores. Turn back the clock just a few years and Times Square was a very different place, lined with seedy movie theaters where prostitutes worked the corners as nervous tourists hurried through to the theater district. This was the New York City playwright Ronnie Larsen discovered as a young college student in the late ‘80s. It was also the New York City he quickly grew to love and immortalized in his play, “All-Male Peep Show,” opening next weekend at Empire Stage. “New York used to be crazy. It was very exciting. I think it’s sad all that stuff went away. It was exciting to be harassed by the hookers. (Mayor Rudy) Giuliani took a piece out of New York when he shut all that down,” Larsen recalled. “How do I say that without sounding creepy?” Larsen is best known for his play, “Making Porn,” a satirical look at the porn industry that has been produced around the world, including South Florida. But it was a chance encounter with a woman who “performed” behind the glass in one of those Times Square peep shows that inspired this rarely produced play. “She was so glamorous, sitting there behind the glass taking these men’s money. It wasn’t like ‘Magic Mike,’ there was no art to it at all, but I was fascinated by the people who worked in these sex shops,” he said. The original version featured female characters, but soon Larsen began to question whether he was reaching the right audience. He rewrote the play with a cast of male characters and had a hit, especially after he cast porn legend Jeff Stryker. “You couldn’t get a ticket,” boasted Larsen. Unlike “Making Porn,” “All-Male Peep Show” had a relatively large cast and cumbersome set, making it impractical to tour the play. According to Larsen, the play sat for nearly 10 years when Empire Stage producer and friend David Gordon suggested the play be revived in Fort Lauderdale.

Playwright Ronnie Larsen. Submitted Photo.

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a&e theater

Winter is No Joke for Comedian Judy Gold Mary Damiano

Comedian Judy Gold brings her stand-up act to Coral Springs this weekend. Submitted Photo.

After a seemingly endless winter, lesbian comedian and actress Judy Gold is looking forward to escaping to sunny South Florida. “Now I see why people move to Florida,” Gold admitted over the phone in between the snowstorms that have buried the Northeast. “It’s unbelievable—the black ice—I walk one inch at a time. It’s freezing and my arthritis is killing me.” Gold is bringing her stand-up act, “If You Only Knew the Agony,” to the Rrazz Room at the Coral Springs Center for the Arts, this Saturday, Feb. 28. “Now that I’m 52, it’s not looking too bad,” she said of the retiree lifestyle, albeit with a caveat, “I’ll be the one driving 400 miles an hour and honking and screaming,” and not the stereotypical geriatric driver inching along I-95 at a snail’s pace while peering over the top of the steering wheel. The Emmy Award-winner has lots to talk about when she takes the stage: “I do speak about my kids, of course, even though they hate it,” and her son Henry has threatened on several occasions to hire a lawyer to send her a cease and desist letter, the mother of two said with a chuckle. She also devotes time to the plight of women in American society. “If I see another Cialis or Viagra commercial, I’m gonna scream,” Gold said. “Is it really the most important issue in this country when you turn on the television and see (endless commercials) for erectile dysfunction? I don’t want to hear about blood flow and the need to be ‘ready when the time is right’!” Gold gets pissed about a lot of things. She

is currently working on a new podcast called, “Kill Me Now,” that features interviews with celebrities who talk about what upsets them most. There’s going to be lots of material generated for her routine from that venture, she expects. She also plans to address the social media phenomenon. “Just because you can write clever quips at 140 characters doesn’t mean you can stand on a stage for an hour and entertain an audience,” she warned. Some clubs admittedly hire comedians based on the number of Twitter followers they might boast. Gold also bristles at the notion someone in the audience might record her performances on a smart phone and post the video on YouTube. Sometimes a new act takes time to perfect. While Gold knows the Internet has made life easier in many ways, she feels the younger generation is seeking instant gratification. “This generation will never know what it’s like to smoke a joint and go to Tower Records and look through albums for hours and hours. The kids are always on their phones,” Gold lamented. “There’s no anticipation anymore. I still get a newspaper. I want to hold it.” She added, “There’s this guy in my mother’s nursing home who can’t lift his head up. That’s the way people are all going to be,” after spending so much time looking down at their phones. As for Gold, she’s not afraid of aging as long as she can continue to share some of her agony with audiences.

Judy Gold brings her comedy act, “If You Only Knew the Agony” to the Rrazz Room at the Coral Springs Center for the Arts, 2855 Coral Springs Dr., on Saturday, Feb. 28 at 7:30 p.m. Tickets start at $33.92 at CoralSpringsCenterForTheArts.com. soflagaynews //

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Datebook

Theater Christiana Lilly

Calendar@SFGN.com

* An Evening With Ghaleb and Chamber * Capitol Steps: How to Succeed in * Fate and Freedom Feb. 27 and 28 at the Arsht Center, 1300 Biscayne Orchestra Congress Without Really Lying Feb. 28 at 8 p.m. at the Parker Playhouse, 707 NE Eighth St. in Fort Lauderdale. The tenor sings with his flamenco guitar and is joined by violinist Pablo Rivera and the Chamber Orchestra. Tickets $19 to $39. Call 954-462-0222 or visit ParkerPlayhouse. com.

Feb. 28 to March 15 at the Kravis Center for the Performing Arts, 701 Okeechobee Blvd. in West Palm Beach. The comedy troupe has been spoofing the madness of Washington, D.C. politics for more than 30 years. Tickets $40. Call 561-832-7469 or visit Kravis.org.

Octopus

Les Liaisons Dangereuses

Through March 1 at Empire Stage, 1140 N. Flagler Road in Fort Lauderdale. Island City Stage presents play of a younger gay couple that tries to keep broward county the up with an older, more experienced crowd during a night that challenges the core of their relationship. The Doobie Brothers Contains nudity. Tickets $30. Call 954-519-2533 or Feb. 25 from 7:30 to 10 p.m. at the Pompano visit IslandCityStage.org. Beach Amphitheater, in Pompano Beach. The rock band boasts 14 golf albums, seven platinum, * Ronnie Milsap and three multiplatinum. Tickets $39 to $79. Visit March 5 at 7:30 p.m. at the Parker Playhouse, 707 PompanoBeachArts.org. NE Eighth St. in Fort Lauderdale. After 40 years and 40 number one hits, Milsap tours for the last From Broadway to Opera time. Tickets $46.50 to $66.50. Call 954-462-0222 Feb. 26 at 7:30 p.m. at the Miramar Cultural Center, or visit ParkerPlayhouse.com. 2400 Civic Center Place in Miramar. Performed by Teatro Lirico D’Europa, a two-hour concert of Motown: The Musical Broadway hits, Italian songs, and operatic delights. Through March 8 at the Broward Center for Tickets $40 to $65. Call 954-602-4500 or visit the Performing Arts, 201 SW Fifth Ave. in Fort MiramarCulturalCenter.org. Lauderdale. The story of Motown begins with boxer Berry Gordy, who decides to turn his life in a * Jason Alexander and His Hair new direction and found a musical label, launching Feb. 26 at 8 p.m. at the Coral Springs Center the careers of Diana Ross, Michael Jackson, for the Performing Arts, 2855 Coral Springs Smokey Robinson, and other musical legends. Drive in Coral Springs. The “Seinfeld” funny Tickets $34.75 to $105. Call 954-462-0222 or visit man takes the stage for an evening of laughs. BrowardCenter.org. Tickets $52 to $202. Call 954-344-5990 or visit CoralSpringsCenterfortheArts.com.

The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee

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Feb. 26 to April 19 at the Broward Center for the Performing Arts, 201 SW Fifth Ave. in Fort Lauderdale. Six awkward adolescents compete in a spelling bee in this play that will have the audience roaring with laughter. Tickets $45. Call 954-4620222 or visit BrowardCenter.org.

Ramsey Lewis and His Electric Band

* The Fab Faux

* Rene Marie: I Wanna Be Evil (With Love to Eartha Kitt)

Feb. 27 at 8 p.m. at Parker Playhouse, 707 NE Eighth St. in Fort Lauderdale. A night of comedy from Richard lewis and Kevin Pollack to benefit the Catskill Resort Museum project. Tickets $51.50 to $126.50. Call 954-462-0222 or visit ParkerPlayhouse.com.

* Jerry Seinfeld

Feb. 27 and 28 at the Hard Rock Live, One Seminole Way in Hollywood. The stand up comedian, known from the sitcom “Seinfeld,” heads to South Florida for a two-night engagement. Tickets $79 to $169. Visit SeminoleHardRockHollywood.com

* Game of Scones

Feb. 27 to March 22 at the Coral Springs Center for the Arts, 2855 Coral Springs Drive in Coral Springs. Very, very loosely based on the hit series, Sonny is found murdered in his scones cafe, sending his friends, family and employees on a rampage for control of the store. Tickets $39.22. Call 954-3445990 or visit CoralSpringsCenterfortheArts.com.

Feb. 25 at 8 p.m. at the Kravis Center for the Performing Arts, 701 Okeechobee Blvd. in West Palm Beach. Lewis is joined by Philip Bailey of Earth, Wind & Fire. Tickets $25 to $100. Call 561832-7469 or visit Kravis.org.

Feb. 26 at 7:30 p.m. at the Kravis Center for the Performing Arts, 701 Okeechobee Blvd. in West Palm Beach. The performer brings Eartha Kitt’s heart and soul to the stage. Tickets $35. Call 561832-7469 or visit Kravis.org.

* Arsenic & Old Lace

Feb. 26 to March 15 at the Lake Worth Playhouse, 713 Lake Ave. in Lake Worth. Out of the goodness of their hearts, the Brewster sisters serve poisoned drinks to elderly men to give them a peaceful death in this raucous comedy. Tickets $29 to $70. Call 561-586-6410 or visit LakeWorthPlayhouse. org.

* The Country Mile

Feb. 27 at 7 p.m. at the Delray Center for the Arts, 51 N. Swinton Ave. in Delray Beach. Country rockers, Parmalee, will be joined on stage by Amber Leigh. Tickets $30 to $40. Call 561-243-7922 or visit DelrayCenterfortheArts.org.

* Judy Gold: If You Only Knew the Agony * Passion and Grace Feb. 28 at 7:30 p.m. at the Coral Springs Center for the Arts, 2855 Coral Springs Drive in Coral Springs. The Emmy Award-winning actress and comedienne has been nominated twice for funniest comedian. Call 954-344-5990 or visit CoralSpringsCenterfortheArts.com.

Feb. 27 to March 1 at the Kravis Center for the Performing Arts, 701 Okeechobee Blvd. in West Palm Beach. The Miami City Ballet performs excerpts from “Carmen,” “Sweet Fields,” and “Allegro Brillante.” Tickets $20 to $175. Call 561832-7469 or visit Kravis.org.

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Blvd. in Miami. The Cleveland Orchestra plays works by Beethoven and Shostakovich. Tickets $41 to $180. Call 305-949-6722 or visit ArshtCenter.org.

* Peter Fogel and Johnny Lombardi

Feb. 28 at 8 p.m. at the Aventura Arts & Cultural Center, 3385 NE 188th St. in Aventura. Coming from different upbringings and in different neighborhoods in New York City, the stand up comedians joke about being a cannoli and a macaroon. Tickets $34.50 to $39.50. Call 800-7453000 or visit AventuraCenter.org.

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 561-514-4042 or visit * The Martin Bejerano Trio ft. Vivian PalmBeachDramaworks.org. Sessoms Feb. 28 at 7:30 and 9:30 p.m. at the South MiamiShenandoah Dade Cultural Arts Center, 10950 SW 211st St. Through March 1 at the Delray Square Performing in Cutler Bay. The jazz pianist, composer, and Arts, 4809 W. Atlantic Ave. in Delray Beach. recording artist is joined by singer Sessoms in this A Virginia farmer struggles to keep his family cabaret performance. Tickets $25 in advance, $30 together and alive during the throes of the Civil at the door. Call 786-573-5300 or visit SMDAC.org. War in the American answer to “Fiddler on the Roof.” Tickets $37.50. Call 561-880-0319 or visit * Mummenschanz DelraySquareArts.com. Feb. 28 to March 1 at the South Miami-Dade Cultural Arts Center, 10950 SW 211st St. in Cutler Bay. Everytime items come to life in this unique March 2 at 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. at the Kravis Center for the Performing Arts, 701 Okeechobee Blvd. performance. Tickets $20 to $30. Call 786-573-5300 in West Palm Beach. The British swing band, Jive or visit SMDAC.org. Aces, perform music from the golden age of Swing to the Rat Pack era. Tickets $28. Call 561-832-7469 * The Pearl Fishers Feb. 28 to March 7 at the Arsht Center, 1300 or visit Kravis.org. Biscayne Blvd. in Miami. Set in British colony of Ceylon, a love triangle is formed between two pearl * Dresden Philharmonic Orchestra March 2 and 3 at the Kravis Center for the fishermen and a priestess. Tickets $16 to $139. Call Performing Arts, 701 Okeechobee Blvd. in West 305-949-6722 or visit ArshtCenter.org. Palm Beach. One of Germany’s oldest orchestra, they play Tchaikovsky, Williams, and Brahms. * Judy Gold: If You Only Knew the Agony Tickets $30 to $105. Call 561-832-7469 or visit March 1 at 7 p.m. at the South Miami-Dade Cultural Arts Center, 10950 SW 211st St. in Cutler Bay. The Kravis.org. actress and comedienne has two off Broadway shows. Tickets $40. Call 786-573-5300 or visit * Paul Anka March 4 at 8 p.m. at the Kravis Center for the SMDAC.org. Performing Arts, 701 Okeechobee Blvd. in West Palm Beach. The singer/songwriter has given us Rude Mechs hits like “Diana,” “You Are My Destiny,” and “My Through March 1 at The Light Box, 404 NW 26th St. Way.” Tickets $35 and up. Call 561-832-7469 or visit in Miami. Games and science come together in this Kravis.org. theatrical performance of natural selection. Tickets $25. Visit MCDLiveArts.org or MiamiLightProject. Stars of David com. Through March 15 at the Kravis Center for the Performing Arts, 701 Okeechobee Blvd. in West * The Cleveland Orchestra Palm Beach. A musical performance of Jewish March 4 at 8 p.m. at the South Miami-Dade Cultural identity of famous Americans.Tickets $26 to $46. Arts Center, 10950 SW 211st St. in Cutler Bay. Free, Call 561-832-7469 or visit Kravis.org. but must have a ticket for a spot. Call 786-573-5300 or visit SMDAC.org.

* Swingtime

Free Friday Concerts

Fridays at 7:30 p.m. at the Delray Beach Center for the Arts, 51 N. Swinton Ave. in Delray Beach. Enjoy live music from the comfort of your picnic blanket or lawn chair every week, for free! Call 561-2437922 or visit DelrayArts.org.

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The Seven Year Itch

Through March 22 at the Miami Theater Center, 9806 NE Second Ave. in Miami Shores. The inspiration for the film, Richard Sherman is at odds after seven years of marriage to his wife when another woman catches his eye. Tickets $35. Call 305-751-9550 or visit MTCMiami.org.

* Peter and Will Anderson Trio

PAMM Outdoor Music Series

* Ricardo Arjona

The Big Show

Feb. 27 at 8 p.m. at the South Miami-Dade Cultural Arts Center, 10950 SW 211st St. in Cutler Bay. Playing the clarinet and saxophone, an impressive jazz performance. Tickets $25 in advance, $30 at the door. Call 786-573-5300 or visit SMDAC.org. Feb. 27 at 9 p.m. at the AmericanAirlines Arena, 601 Biscayne Blvd. in Miami. Considered one of the most respected Latin American singersongwriters, Arjona performs in support of his Viaje Tour. Tickets $60 to $100. Call 786-777-1000 or visit AAArena.com.

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Third Thursdays at the Perez Art Museum Miami, 101 W. Flagler St. in Miami. Come out for live music from DJs and musicians by the bay. Drink specials available. Free with museum admission. Call 305375-3000 or visit PAMM.org. Fridays and Saturdays at 9 p.m. at Just the Funny Theater, 3119 Coral Way in Miami. A collection of comedy mixing the likes of improvisation and sketches. Tickets $12. Call 305-693-8669 or visit JustTheFunny.com. * Denotes New Listing

ON STANDS NOW! Check out

The Mirror

Winter 2015

WINTER 2015 • Vol. 3

Issue 4

Winter Arts Guide Editi GUIdE bEGINS ON PAGE 21

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

HUNGARY FACES A HISTORIC STRUGGLE

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GUIdE bEGINS ON PAGE 21

Winter Arts Guid soflagaynews //

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Datebook

Community Christiana Lilly Calendar@SFGN.com

broward county * The Art of Erotic Romance

Feb. 26 at 7 p.m. at the Stonewall Museum -- Wilton Manors Gallery, 2157 Wilton Drive in Wilton Manors. Novelist Johnny Miles will read his works of gay erotic fiction as well as discuss the topic. Free. Call 954-763-8565 or visit Stonewall-Museum.org.

* Kahlo, Rivera & Mexican Modern Art

Feb. 26 to May 31 at the NSU Art Museum Fort Lauderdale, One E. Las Olas in Fort Lauderdale. Mexican artists Frida Kahlo and Diego Rivera created a new genre of Mexican artwork that is still influential today. Call 954-525-5500 or visit NSUArtMuseum.org.

* How Climate Change Impacts Our Lives

Feb. 28 from 10 a.m. to noon at the Deerfield Century Village East activities center, 3501 West Drive in Deerfield Beach. Caroline Lewis, an environmental activist, will discuss climate change. Suggested donation $5. Call 917-344-0798 or visit DeerfieldProgressiveForum.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.

* 38th Annual Waterway Cleanup

March 7 from 9 a.m. to noon at Colohatchee Boat Ramp,1975 NE 15th Ave. in Wilton Manors. Help beautiful your neighborhood with a spring cleaning event to clear trash and debris from local waterways. Free. Register to WaterwayCleanUp.org. Call 954-390-2130, email ccooper@wiltonmanors. com, or visit WaterwayCleanUp.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 Parks, 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.

BRAIN: The World Inside Your Head

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

Life Coaching

Monday through Friday 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. at Latinos Salud Clubhouse, 2300 Wilton Drive in Wilton

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Manors. Get one-on-one life coaching from certified CRCS coaches. Free. Call 954-765-6239 or visit LatinosSalud.org.

Introduction to Modern Buddhism

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

Man2Man Discussion

Mondays 7 to 8:30 p.m. at the Pride Center, 2040 N. Dixie Highway in Wilton Manors. A weekly informal discussion group among gay men of all backgrounds. Contact John Beuscher at 954-3194292 or email johnnybushwick@aol.com.

Gender Bender Youth Group

Mondays from 7 to 8:30 p.m. at SunServe Campus, 1480 SW Ninth Ave. in Fort Lauderdale. A group for LGBT youth 13 to 21 to discuss gender, gender expression, binary systems, friendship, family and whatever else comes up! Free. Visit SunServeYouth. com

Toastmasters

Mondays 7 to 9 p.m. at the Pride Center, 2040 N. Dixie Highway in Wilton Manors. Learn the art of public speaking with positive reinforcement and encouragement from your peers. Call Ted Verdone at 954-566-2074 or email tedverdone@comcast. net.

Come on GET HAPPY!

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 Advantage Group

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.

palm beach county * Palm Beach Fine Craft Show

Mondays from 7 to 8:30 p.m. at SunServe North, 2312 Wilton Drive in Wilton Manors. It’s hard to keep a smile on your face sometimes, this group works on emotional balance and stability. Call 954764-5150 or visit SunServe.org.

Feb. 27 to March 1 at the Palm Beach County Convention Center, 650 Okeechobee Blvd. in West Palm Beach. Collectors and appreciators of art alike will enjoy a three-day show of work from more than 135 artists from around the country. Tickets $15. Visit CraftsAmericaShows.com

PFLAG

* Grunge & Glamour

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

Food Truck Invasion

Tuesdays from 5:30 to 9:30 p.m. at Plantation Heritage Park, 1100 S. Fig Tree Lane in Plantation. The whole family is invited to the park for dinner with the food trucks and live music. Visit FoodTruckInvasion.com

L.I.F.E. Project

Tuesdays from 7 to 9 p.m. at the Pride Center, 2040 N. Dixie Highway in Wilton Manors. Get the tools you need to treat your HIV positive diagnosis and live a full, productive life. Free. Call 954-463-9005 or visit PrideCenterFlorida.org.

Tuesday Night Eatin’ Meeting

Tuesdays 8 to 9 p.m. at the Alternative MC Clubhouse, 4322 NE Fifth Ave. in Oakland Park. Fun and fellowship with plenty of food to go around. Visit AlternativeMC.com/events/floridaevents.

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 954-6301655 or visit S-Men.org.

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 soflagaynews //

Feb. 28 at 7 p.m. at Arts Garage, 180 NE First St. in Delray Beach. It’s time to go retro with a night of old school fashion and music. Enjoy bites and sips and dance to the music of Toots Lorraine & The Traffic. Don’t forget to enter the raffle, you might win a guitar signed by Steven Tyler! Tickets $100. Call 561-450-6357 or visit ArtsGarage.org.

* Women’s Expo 2015

Feb. 28 and March 1 at the Palm Beach County Convention Center, 650 Okeechobee Blvd. in West Palm Beach. A celebration of women, enjoy seminars, health screenings, fitness, fashion, beauty, and free pampering. Free. Tickets Call 203571-8850 or visit WomensExpoPalmBeach.com.

* Get Hooked!

March 5 from 6 to 10 p.m. at The Breakers, One S. County Road in Palm Beach. A gala for the South Florida Science Center and Aquarium, “River Monsters” star and fishing expert Jeremy Wade will talk about his adventures in rivers around the world. Call Marcy Hoffman at 561-370-7738 or visit SFScienceCenter.org/gala.

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.

Zumba Fitness

Mondays at 6 p.m. at Compass GLCC, 201 N. Dixie Highway in Lake Worth. Get moving with a certificated Zumba instructor for an infusion of

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exercise and dance moves. Donation of $5 or more. Call 561-324-1626 or visit CompassGLCC.com.

Out of the Closet, Into the Light

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

Voices of Pride

Mondays at 7 p.m. at Compass GLCC, 201 N. Dixie Highway in Lake Worth. Join the Gay Men’s Chorus as they practice every week. Free. Call 561-5339699 or visit CompassGLCC.com

miami-dade county Spotlight Mega-Mixer on board the Lady Windridge Yacht

Feb. 25 from 6 to 9 p.m. at the Hard Rock Bayside, 301 Biscayne Blvd. in Miami. Hop aboard the Lady Windridge with more than 200 other business leaders to mingle, network, win prizes, enjoy sips and bites, and music by DJ Vertigo. Tickets $10 members, $20 nonmembers. RSVP to GayBizMiami.com, rsvp@gaybizmiami.com or 305-673-4440.

* DNA Tour

Feb. 27 from 7 to 10 p.m. at Zoo Miami, One Zoo Blvd. in Miami. A night with the dinosaurs! Eat some prehistoric pizza then head out into the night with flashlights for animal encounters. Tickets $15 members, $20 non-members. Call 305-251-0400 or visit ZooMiami.org.

* RuPaul’s Drag Race Premiere Party

March 1 at 8 p.m. at Mansion, 1236 Washington Ave. in Miami Beach. Meet the queens of season seven as they strut their stuff on stage before a screening of the season premiere. Tickets $40. Visit VossEvents.com/Edison.

Xu Bing: Writing Between Heaven and Earth

Through May 24 at the Frost Art Museum, 10975 SW 17th St. in Miami. The Chinese artist took four years to create a 5,000 square foot exhibit of writing and text, showcasing communication through the ages -- the piece is so large it can only be exhibited in select museums. Free. Visit TheFrost.FIU.edu.

Arsht Center Farmers Market

Mondays from 4 to 8 p.m. at the Parker and Vann Thomson Plaza for the Arts, 1300 Biscayne Blvd. in Miami. Purchase fresh food from local farmers, including fruits, vegetables, meats, prepared foods, as well as chefs, live music, and cooking demonstrations. Free. Visit ArshtCenter.org/en/ Visit/Dining.

key west * Key West Follies

Feb. 27 at 8 p.m. at the Tennessee Williams Theatre, 5901 College Road in Key West. A variety show featuring and best and worst of Key West theater, followed by a mixer with the cast. Tickets $20 to $100. Call 305-295-767 or visit TennesseeWilliamsTheatre.com.

Next Fall

Through Feb. 28 at 8 p.m. at Waterfront Playhouse in Key West. Luke, a devout Christian, and Adam, an atheist, must make it work with their families when they experience an accident. Tickets $20 to $50. Call 305-294-5015 or visit WaterfrontPlayhouse. org.

* Denotes New Listing

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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

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

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

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 // 2.25.2015 // SFGN.com //

Addiction Coach

PARIS AUTO REPAIR

BECOMING MLM

Couples/Relationship Coach

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.

Serving Broward Since 1999

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

Reiki/Energy/Chakra Healer

954-522-3310

www.pdpHomeWatch.com pdpHomeWatch@gmail.com

FREE!

business opportunity

Coach and Minister

PARIS AUTO REPAIR 1801 NW 1st Ct Boca Raton, FL 33432 soflagaynews //

SouthFloridaGayNews

561-395-7765 Ask for John (“Curly”)

air conditioning FAST A/C REPAIRS Licensed and insured, CAC057837. A & H A/C.954-392-1301. We focus on repairs, not selling you any new equipment.24 Hour Service. Evening Appointments Available.

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

roommates oakland park

Place an ad in SFGN’s Classiﬁeds

954.530.4970 pets/supplies

LOOKING FOR 1 BEDROOM APARTMENT: Single Gay Male, 60+, Looking For One Bedroom Unfurnished Apartment, No Pets... Prefer N. Andrews Gardens or Nearby. Call Doug 954.261.9073 or Email dtrncon@aol.com

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LGBT MARRIAGES Your Way Where and When Do You Want To get Married? Ordained and Gay Myself

Randy Strickland

954.588.8109 Proudly Serving our Community

piano lessons

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

real estate broward county CONDO IN IDEAL FT.LAUDERDALE BEACH LOCATION - Just steps to Beach Place.On A1A between Las Olas and Sunrise Blvd.Amazing balcony views of beach and intercoastal.Water taxi stops at the end of side street.2 br(converted to 1 br)2 full baths.Small pet friendly building.Garage parking.24 hour security guard on duty. $399k Call Dr. Bruce Brynes at 954-609-6666 DrBruceFL@ gmail.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.

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

SouthFloridaGayNews // SFGN.com // 2.25.2015 //

// 2.25.2015 // SFGN.com //

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