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March 29, 2010 • VOLUME 1 • ISSUE 10
THE REVOLUTION STARTS NOW! 13 23 46 6 Page 11
INSIDE THIS ISSUE
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Locals React to ObamaCare
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Lesbian Teen’s Rights Violated
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Business Profile: Michael Goodman
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Gay Polo Tourney Begins
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March 29 , 2010 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com
What’s New?
SFGN Lands ‘Q’ Syndicate Team for More News Content By Richard Gary
week,” Kent stated.“This week we are at 48 pages, nearly as large as any gay paper in America after only two months of publication.” ince Q Syndicate was founded in Last week, to go along with the Associ1995, more than 100 LGBT newspapers, magazines, newsletters and Web ated Press, SFGN added the nationally sites throughout distinguished Keen News Service, operated by the former editor in chief of the the world have Washington Blade, Lisa Keen. The owners run their columns, puzzles and and operators of Q Syndicates are Jan Stevenson, the CFO, and Susan Horowitz, cartoons. They have pro- the company’s president. Jan Stevenson is a long-time activvided gay related content to weekly ist, publisher and business owner. For 14 years she has been the co-publisher publications like of Michigan’s LGBT weekly newspaper, the Bay Area Jan Stevenson Reporter, San Diego Between The Lines. Prior to that she was executive director of the area’s LGBT Lesbian and Gay Times and the Dal- community center, and served on the las Voice. Now you board of the National Gay & Lesbian can add the South Task Force from 1993 to 1996. Stevenson holds Masters Degrees in both finance Florida Gay News. and music, graduating with degrees from com to the list. Yale University and Drexel University. Publisher Norm Born and raised in New York City, Susan Kent signed an Susan Horowitz exclusive contract Horowitz founded Pride Publishing, Inc., a graphic arts and publishing company. She with them last week. has been publisher of the New York City Pride “SFGN is expanding.We are growing with advertisers and we need to add content each Guide, and was the first executive director
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of the New Festival, New York’s annual gay and lesbian film festival. Susan was actively involved in the New York LGBT community in the 1980s and was the Grand Marshall of its Pride March in 1983. A third staffer of Q Syndicate is Chris Azzopardi, whose work has been featured in numerous gay/lesbian publications nationwide. He’s also a contributor to Out magazine. “Q Syndicate adds tremendous diversity to the paper,” Kent said, noting that it provides 14 separate features, including horoscopes, crossword puzzles, editorial cartoons, humor and nationally noted columnists including author and out sportswriter Dan Woog. A random selection began running in last week’s copy of SFGN, including Paul Berge’s editorial cartoon and a horoscope. More features coming your way will be the lesbian storyline created by Joan Hility in a cartoon entitled ‘Bitter Girl’ as well as an advice column by Steven Petrow, the well known gay author of ‘The Essential Book of Gay Manners and Etiquette.’ In the upcoming weeks, Romeo St.Vincente will also be writing pieces on ‘Inside Hollywood,’ and D’Anne Witkowski will be exposing homophobic politicians and right wing evangelists in her ‘Creep of the Week’ feature. A cross section of ‘Q’ features runs this week in SFGN and says Tommy Forcella, Domain Master,“you can go to www.southfloridagaynews.com and register your comments.
March 29 , 2010 • Volume 1 • Issue 10
Editorial Offices 2520 N. Dixie Highway • Wilton Manors, FL 33305 Phone: 954-530-4970 FAX: 954-530-7943
Norm Kent Publisher and Editor in Chief publishernorm@southfloridagaynews.com Piero Guidugli
Chief Executive Officer
Features Editor. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Joey Amato joey.amato@southfloridagaynews.com
Lifestyle Editor. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A. Sebastian Fortino sebastian.fortino@southfloridagaynews.com
Arts/Entertainment Editor . . . . . . Mary Damiano
SFGNites Editor. . . . . . . . . . . . . . JW Arnold
Health/HIV Editor . . . . . . . . . . . . Paul Gallotta Business Editor ........................... Richard Gary
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Contributing Columnists. . . . . . . Tony Adams, Wayne Besen, AJ Cross, Deb Price, Brian McNaught, Jennifer Vanasco
Creative Director . . . . . . . . . . . . . George Dauphin
Graphic Designer. . . . . . . . . . . . . Jarrett Terrill
Online Website Director (Master of Our Domain). . . . . . . . Tom Forcella tommy.forcella@southfloridagaynews.com
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Display & Internet Marketing Manager . . . . . . . . . . . Cliff Dunn cliff.dunn@southfloridagaynews.com
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Printing and Publication. . . . . . . . Miami Offset
South Florida Gay News.com is published weekly on Mondays. Our paper is a member of the Associated Press. The views and opinions expressed within this publication, in bylined columns, stories, and letters to the editor are those of the writers expressing them. They do not represent the opinions of South Florida Gay News.com, Inc., or the Publisher. They are included to promote free speech and diversity of thought. You should not presume the sexual orientation of individuals based on their names or pictorial representations in SFGN, and it would be careless to do so. For the sake of readable newswriting, the word “gay” in SFGN should, when relevant, be interpreted to be inclusive of the entire gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgendered community. All of the material that appears in SFGN, both online at www. southfloridagaynews.com, and in our print edition, including articles used in conjunction with our contract with the Associated Press and our columnists, is protected under federal copyright and intellectual property laws, and is jealously guarded by the newspaper. Thus, nothing published may be reprinted in whole or part without getting written consent from the Publisher of SFGN, at his law office, Kent & Cormican, P.A., 110 Southeast 6th Street, Suite 1970, Fort Lauderdale, Fl 33301. SFGN, as a private corporation, reserves the right to enforce its own standards regarding the suitability of advertising copy, illustrations and photographs. Copyright©2010 South Florida Gay News.com, Inc.
Associated Press
March 29 , 2010 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com
Jumping for Joy!
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‘Tiny Tina’ Celebrates as Ray Fetcho Wins State Nursing Exemption By Cliff Dunn
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n a surprisingly uncommon swift decision, the State of Florida’s Board of Nursing has ruled that Ray Fetcho— a/k/a Tiny Tina—will be granted an exemption and allowed to return to work as a licensed practical nurse (LPN). The decision took officials less than 30 days to publish—an unprecedented timeframe—and a ruling which is being hailed as “a victory for LGBT employment rights.” The story, first reported in SFGN, began unfolding in January when Fetcho, who had entertained South Florida audiences for decades as the irreverent and popular drag emcee Tiny Tina, was fired from a nursing job, after a routine background screening of the assisted living facility that employed him, found a decades-old arrest on his record. The arrest had occurred in 1976, while Tiny Tina was hosting a “Wet Jockey Shorts Contest” at The Copa, a popular Fort Lauderdale nightclub for over 30 years. Police had been doing an undercover operation looking for drugs that night and although no controlled substances were found on Fetcho, state alcohol agents nevertheless charged ‘Tiny’ with “promoting a lewd and lascivious act.” “That was during the Anita Bryant Era, a lifetime ago,” remembers John Castelli, who owned The Copa with his partner, the late Bill Bastiansen. Castelli believed – and still believes – that the arrest was out of line. “It was such an innocent situation,” Castelli says. “The boys always wore briefs, no one was exposed. It was comedy. Now the state made it into a tragedy.” After Fetcho contacted SFGN to report his dismissal, Fort Lauderdale-based attorneys Russell Cormican and Norm Kent— who is the Publisher of SFGN—volunteered to take the case pro bono, in hopes of securing an exemption from state officials to allow Fetcho to return to work. Said Cormican: “It’s clear that an injustice which occurred in a less enlightened time
had reared its head and we were fortunately given an opportunity to make matters right. The state responded as they should haveswiftly, affirmatively and justly.” Cormican and Kent had petitioned the Florida Department of Health to overturn AHCA’s ruling, which they did. “Employees seeking an exemption have the burden of setting forth sufficient evidence of rehabilitation, including the circumstances surrounding the criminal incident for which the exemption is sought,” Cormican said. An outpouring of support for Fetcho and Tiny Tina followed the disclosure of his unjust termination. Among those pledging their assistance were Paul Hugo and Brett Tannenbaum, co-owners of The Manor Restaurant and Lounge in Wilton Manors, who have offered to host a benefit in the entertainer’s honor. “Tiny Tina is a local treasure and a South Florida icon,” said Hugo. Unexpected relief also came from a surprising source: David Shomers, who headed the Florida Division of Alcoholic Beverages and Tobacco investigation of The Copa and is now a Lauderdale Lakes city commissioner. He told reporters “I think it’s an injustice and terrifically unfair for Mr. Fetcho to lose his position now over a misdemeanor over 30 years ago.” “It’s not as if he robbed a bank or beat somebody up,” Shomers told the Sun-Sentinel after the original story broke. On March 25, Florida Department of Health administrators informed Fetcho of their ruling. “It has been determined you have demonstrated clear and convincing evidence you will not present a danger if employed within the healthcare field,” the notice reinstating Fetcho read. “This exemption is granted.” The newly-reinstated nursing professional has plans to begin a new job working in Coconut Creek at Dayscape, a senior activity center. Fetcho says he is grateful for the community’s backing: “Thanks to all my friends and supporters for standing by me during
Ray Fetcho (insert) performs as Tiny Tina at an assisted living facility for the elderly
this troubling time.” His attorney, Cormican, was also pleased. “We have a victory in that a wrong has been righted. But the fact that this even was a case remains a cause for embarrassment and concern in this modern age.” A benefit- now a celebration- in honor of Fetcho is still scheduled for Tuesday night,
April 13, at The Manor in Wilton Manors, which will be emceed—of course—by Tiny Tina. There will be a Wet Jockey Shorts Contest featuring dancers from local bars. “I am humbled by the support and the response. And it’s nice to have another ’15 minutes’ of fame,” Fetcho added, a smile on his face and a song in his heart.
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March 29 , 2010 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com
Local News
More Victims of Patterson Come Forward Feature on ‘Dirty Larry’ Exposes Yet More Dirt A. Sebastian Fortino
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fter the publication of the expose’ of how would-be publisher Larry Patterson scammed a half dozen employees out of their pay, three more have come forward to SFGN with stories of employee abuse and his drug use. Sadly, the stories of woe repeat a pattern published on these pages last week. All the employees were taken in by a quick hire, the promise of pay, and nothing tangible ever reaching the desk. Patterson’s harassment did not limit itself to the men he described as “butch boys” and “fukin amazing” [sic]. A woman, Diana Morrison, was blown away by Patterson’s stunning conduct. Hired on the spot, after a five minute interview, Morrison was recruited as an Executive Assistant, only to come into work the next day to find out that she had been hired as a writer. “I told him I had no writing experience, though,” she said. “I have a background in TV advertising.” Morrison told SFGN that Patterson was “always talking about my
breasts,” so much so “I forced myself to wear a sweatshirt, a jacket, some type of “covering” because he was harassing me.” “This was not playful,” Morrison said, “No, I felt harassed, like the guys did. He was a dirty old man on another level.” Morrison says Patterson talked about being bisexual, often speaking of an ex wife to whom he claimed giving money after a recent settlement. “I was told I would be paid on February 26, Friday. When there was no paycheck then he promised a check on March 2. When there was no money again he swore that we would see money the next day.” It never happened. She was never paid. Once she began her two week stint with Patterson, Morrison found out she was also required to pick him up in the morning from the Hurricane Hotel and drop him off their at night. One of those drives brought about a startling revelation. “He pointed out a crack head then started talking about how he did crack and that you couldn’t tell the difference from when he smoked crack and was sober because he acted the same,” she said. Another employee also told SFGN that he
“Dirty Larry” Patterson
had to move crack pipes off the desks next to the computer at the Wilton Executive Suites. His former landlord at the hotel confirmed that the abandoned room was “populated with drug paraphernalia.” A complaint has now been filed against Patterson for living in the office building he may only rent. Code Enforcement for Wilton Manors is investigating the allegation, confirmed by five of his former employees. Morrison left her job on March 8 when her co-workers also decided not to go into work. She contacted the Department of Labor, now investigating the matter. Another short term victim was Francisco Andrade, an architect. When he told his would-be employer he was an architect, and had no experience as an Executive Assistant, Patterson said that was great. “He needed an architect to design some
spaces for him. I sent the resume and he called me back in 2 minutes, told me to come in that afternoon.” When Andrade arrived he met another architect in Francisco Andrade the lobby on his way to see Patterson. When they reached the offices of Wilton Drive Magazine a third architect awaited them. “He was going to take over the old Social Security headquarters in the Shoppes at Wilton Manors and redevelop it into his offices, a chiropractic office, and gym with pool.” Patterson wanted to give Island City Fitness —whom Andrade says Patterson described as “those fuckers”—some competition. “When we asked him how the office was supposed to function without what we needed, Patterson first said he was going to buy stuff,” Andrade added. “And when he did not he told the staff ‘If you can’t do a magazine with what I have, get the fuck out of here!’ Then I realized how unreal everything was and didn’t go back again.” Andrade has since found work as an architect and hopes Patterson has not violated anyone else by “hiring them.” On the SFGN website however, yet another young man posted a comment last Thursday about how he too, had relocated from Ohio, came down seeking a job, and found Patterson’s words “empty and hollow.” Another victim, sadly.
Student’s Gay Jesus Play Crucified in Texas
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performance of a play about a gay Christlike figure that has sparked protests has been canceled at Tarleton State University in Texas. Critics say the Terrence McNally play, “Corpus Christi,” which premiered in 1998 in New York, is blasphemous. The university said in a written statement Friday evening that the class’s professor had canceled the performance because of concerns about the students’ safety, “as well as the need to maintain an orderly academic environment.” The university’s president had said earlier Friday that he thought the play was “offensive, crude and irreverent.” But he said he
had made no effort to halt the production, because to do so would violate the principle of free expression.
Scene from Corpus Christi
“Like every citizen of the country, the student who chose to direct excerpts from the play enjoys his right to free speech,” President F. Dominic Dottavio wrote in a letter on the Tarleton State University Web site. “This right is protected by law even if the speech is offensive to others.” The play depicts a Christlike character in modern-day Texas. The Christ figure performs a marriage ceremony for two of his disciples, who are also gay. Performances were to be for students only and would not have been open to the public or the news media. “The play is a project for a class. It is not intended for the public any more than a stu-
dent’s math assignment,” Dottavio wrote. “I am both a Christian and gay,” John Otte, the producer, said in a video interview. “This play deals with that subject matter, I believe, in a tasteful way. ... I don’t believe in a God who hates me for who I am.” “Never did I choose this play to attack Christians,” he said. “I am one.” The play is routinely condemned by religious leaders whenever its production is announced, most recently two years ago in Sydney, Australia. When it opened 12 years ago at the Manhattan Theater Club, the playhouse received bomb scares, and its playwright, McNally, endured multiple death threats.
March 29 , 2010 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com
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March 29 , 2010 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com
Local Experts Say Health Coverage May Cost Gays More By Cliff Dunn
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Al Cicotte of American Tax & Insurance
he nation’s health care overhaul package does not include a provision which would help same-sex couples. The provision would have eliminated a tax on employer-provided domestic partner health coverage. The health care bill that originally passed in the House of Representatives in November 2009 contained language erasing the tax, which applies to the domestic part ners of employees with health insurance. But the provision wasn’t in the final version signed into law last week by
Local Citizens Chat About New Health Plan By A. Sebastian Fortino
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he March 22 passing of healthcare reform popularly knows as Obama Care was an exciting moment for many, although excitement is not always positive. For many Americans it was a great day, as it means we will have what every other developed nation offers its citizens. For others it brings our government one step closer to socialism. SFGN decided the best way to learn about how our readers feel about the legislation was to spend the early evening at Java Boys. We asked, “How do you feel about the passage of Obama Care?” The first person interviewed was Massimo Stinco originally of Bologna, Italy who is active in theater. “In Italy maybe the only good thing we have is healthcare,” he said. “We don’t need private insurance, we can go to the doctor and only pay a small fee. One weekend— soon after I arrive in Fort Lauderdale—I had to go to the emergency room. For them
to prescribe me 2 pills,” to make it over the weekend, “I was charged $500.” On Monday he went to a doctor who charged him $150 for the initial consultation to get a full prescription. Italian authorities will reimburse him for the expenditures. “Europeans think the private healthcare in the US is, well, uncomfortable. I think the conflicts of interest between drug, insurance companies and Washington DC is terrible for people that don’t have the money to pay for doctors. I hope he [Obama] does something good for all of you – and,” he added, “for me. I want to stay in America.” Many people were not as educated about the issue as Massimo. When asked how they felt about the historic decision several Java Boys clients declined an interview because they “don’t know much about it,” or “really don’t know enough to establish an opinion.” Peter George, of Wilton Manors, is a volunteer at The Green Hopper. He is very educated about Obama Care. “I’m delighted! This is a long time coming, a victory not only for the Democrats
President Obama. Currently, employer-provided health benefits that are offered to domestic partners are considered taxable income if the partner isn’t listed as a dependent. However, coverage that is extended to opposite-sex partners isn’t subject to the added tax. Al Cicotte, managing partner at American Tax and Insurance Services in Oakland Park, says that over the course of a lifetime, many same-sex couples incur lots of added costs. “Not surprisingly, health care expenses often top that list of extras paid out,” Cicotte says. Part of that reason, he points out, is that most employers don’t extend health coverage to domestic partners. “Only about a third of large companies which offer health benefits provide that coverage to same-sex partners,” says Cicotte.
Obama signs the bill
but the people of this country. I just wish they would go further and institute socialized healthcare like they have in Canada and Europe,” says George who admitted to having gone years without healthcare. Federal employee Ron Walsh of Fort Lauderdale works for the US Post Office. He already gets healthcare from the feds. “As a federal employee this doesn’t effect me at all, I have choices through the government. There are many plans. I chose the best, most expensive one because I suffer from chronic bronchitis. But, I think if federal employees have it so should all Americans.” Veteran Richard Gouge of Oakland Park was very down-to-earth in his thoughts on Obama Care. “Let me put it this way: it’s a beginning that we must have,” he said. To him having healthcare for all Americans is an issue of patriotism. “All the developed countries in the world have it, why shouldn’t we? We’re not a third world nation. As a vet personally I don’t need it, they pay for everything. Some vets would say no to it because it
“And even if employers do offer coverage, you’re still subject to the tax.” Still, the health care overhaul may make it easier for people who aren’t covered by their employers to get coverage, included uninsured LGBT persons. “Starting in 2014, people who have preexisting conditions can’t be denied coverage,” says Jim Rakvica of Correct Coverage Insurance in Fort Lauderdale. “And uninsured people will be able to buy individual coverage through new insurance exchanges. These have to include certain basic, essential benefits.” In addition, people with low-to-moderate incomes could be eligible for subsidized coverage. “Since they can’t file joint federal tax returns, their partners’ income wouldn’t increase their income to the point where they’re no longer eligible for subsidies,” Cicotte notes. Cicotte also points out that low-to-moderate income uninsured persons who don’t get coverage through their own employer or their partner’s, may still be eligible for subsidies on insurance premiums and other cost-sharing expenses such as deductibles and co-pays.
might affect their benefits.” When asked if he thought it smelled like socialism his reply was equally levelheaded. “Well, it does sound a little like socialism, but, if you dissect that word you can read anything [negative] you want into it,” Gouge said. “However, if it proves to be a system that works it’s a system that works. It’s in its infancy right now, so we should really wait and see.” Despite the optimism of the above, William Hitchings of Wilton Manors is currently unemployed yet is not in favor of Obama Care. “I am not a brilliant politician but what I do understand is that I will end up paying a lot of money for other people’s healthcare. Everyone should get insurance but pull it out of the taxes I already pay. I am unemployed as it is. I have Cobra for $130 a month, which—at that rate—I can easily take out of my own pocket. I mean I don’t think it’s right for people to be sick and not have healthcare. I know it’s selfish of me to say but with the cost of living so high in Florida I need every dollar I get.” Clearly, since Obama’s plan will not be fully implemented until 2014 we will have to watch and wait. The next four years promises to be packed with controversy from those that praise and those that despise the ratified bill.
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March 29 , 2010 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com
NewsBriefsNewsBriefsNewsBriefs
National News
Gates Unveils Interim Enforcement Changes in DADT Channing Reynolds
By Lisa Keen
Keen News Service
ALIBI Dog thief CAUGHT in Pennsylvania
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ast July, Brian Dortort celebrated a friend’s birthday party at Georgie’s Alibi in Wilton Manors. He went to the party with his real best friend, Hudson Hayward Hemingway, a chihuahua he adorned with pink earrings. The cute, cream colored dog was a hit at the party, no Dame Edna, but distinguished and notable. He was showing off the tiny puppy when one of the dog’s admirers grabbed it and disappeared, dog in tow. The theft infuriated many of the guests and Wilton Manors police officer David Jones. “You just don’t steal someone’s pet and expect to get away with it.” Identified in part by tattoos on his arm, the suspect in the case, Channing Reynolds has been arrested in Pennsylvania, albeit on unrelated charges. All signs indicate that Wilton Manors will prosecute the theft of Dortort’s dog, and they will be petitioning to extradite the alleged culprit to South Florida for arrest and prosecution. There is no happy ending yet, the dog has not been found, but Dortort has adopted another, Hudson Hayward Hemingway, II. We wish him luck and hope the accused person, if found guilty, finds himself in a dog pound all his own.
Film Bill Stripped of Antigay Language
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Florida bill that would have provided tax credits to movie producers while stipulating their films cannot contain “nontraditional family values” has been stripped of its contentious language. The “family-friendly” condition—seen to many as antigay and antichoice—was removed from senate version of the bill, which passed by the ways and means committee last week. A house version still contains the language, but according to Florida Together, a coalition of state equality organizations, several members of the
house expressed interest in stripping the proviso of their bill, as well. “Florida Together is delighted the discriminatory language was removed from the Senate bill,” Georg Ketelhohn, chair of Florida Together, said in a press release. “We thank the senate for working with us to craft a bill that can create jobs without discriminating against a segment of Florida’s families. But the work is not done yet, and we continue to work with the house to achieve similar progress on the house bill.”
Broward Co. OKs Safe Schools for LGBT Youth
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he School Board of Broward County, FL, voted unanimously to affirm its support for the National Day of Silence observed on April 16, 2010, one of the largest student-led actions in the country sponsored by the Gay, Lesbian and Straight Education Network (GLSEN). he purpose of the National Day of Silence is for students to silently and peacefully protest anti-lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) bullying, harassment, and name-calling. The Day of Silence represents a peaceful protest of a problem that affects all students no matter their sexual orientation or gender identity. The board resolution was sponsored by Broward County School Board Chairwoman Jennifer Gottlieb who stated “The resolution for the ‘National Day of Silence’ speaks to the importance of building a broader, critical, cultural norm in our school district..” Jeanne Jusevic and Michael Emanuel Rajner, who both serve on the District’s Diversity Committee, spoke in support of the resolution. Rajner spoke as an openly-gay man living with AIDS and urged for vigilant efforts to be implemented at the middle school level where data consistently shows an increased incidence and prevalence of bully and suicide of LGBT youth. According to the Florida Department of Health, Florida ranks third (3) in the nation, behind New York and California in the total number of HIV/AIDS cases.
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ecretary of Defense Robert Gates today (Thursday, March 25) unveiled the Pentagon’s plan for making enforcement of the current “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” policy “more humane and fair.” The new plan is “not a moratorium on enforcement” of the policy, said Gates. The existing policy bars openly gay people from the service unless they can swear they never have and never will engage in homosexual conduct. Instead, it stipulates that service members “who are involuntarily outed by a third party” can no longer be discharged, and discharges under “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” (DADT) must be approved by a high-ranking officer—a one-star general or higher. In a preliminary statement, the Servicemembers Legal Defense Network said this morning’s announcement is “another major step” in reducing the number of discharges under DADT. “The question on the table is how, not whether, to repeal the ban,” said SLDN Executive Director Aubrey Sarvis. “As welcome as these very helpful changes are, these interim steps are not a substitute for full repeal to reduce DADT discharges to zero. An unjust law still remains on the books and the harsh reality is service members will still be discharged under it every day until Congress musters the courage to act to bury the law once and for all.” Department of Defense General Counsel Jeh Johnson, in response to questions from reporters following Secretary Gates’ announcement, that third parties will still be able to offer information about someone’s sexual orientation but that the standards for those comments to trigger an investigation will be more stringent. The new regulations, he said, require that an officer determine the reliability of the informant and whether that person might have an ulterior motive in making a report. The regulations, said Johnson, “discour-
Secretary of Defense Robert Gates
age the use of hearsay or overheard conversations,” but “hearsay is not excluded under the revisions.” Johnson acknowledged that “most” of the 428 gay-related discharges last year were initiated by the service member’s own acknowledgement that he or she was gay. Asked whether a discharge proceeding would be triggered if one service member confronted another with a question, such as “Are you gay?” and the latter responded affirmatively, Johnson said that was an issue they had not yet addressed and “we’ll have to work that through.” For his part, Secretary Gates emphasized that he does not want the “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” policy to be repealed before his DADT working group hands in its report on December 1. “I do not recommend a change in the law before we have completed our study,” said Gates, at Thursday’s press briefing. He said he thinks it’s important the working group have time to elicit the views of service members and their families before proceeding. Gates said the changes announced today will take effect immediately, that they apply to “all open and future cases,” but that the services have 30 days to conform. Today’s announcement is in fulfillment of Gates’ statement to a Senate Judiciary Committee on February 2 that he would present a plan within 45 days to ensure that, “within existing law,” enforcement of the policy will be conducted “in a more humane and fair manner.”
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March 29 , 2010 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com
SFGN hosts ‘Reflections’ with pictures of our past from Pompano Bill. Recording the gay and lesbian history photographically for decades, each week we will reach back in time and celebrate the life of a local hero through Pompano’s photographs. Barnett “Karl” Clark, of Wilton Manors, Florida was one of a small group of people who founded Pride of Greater Fort Lauderdale. He was set to be its first paid Executive Director in May of 2001, when he passed away suddenly, from what was later classified as a ‘gastrointestinal hemorrhage.’ Clark had been an activist for the gay and lesbian community for many years before that. In addition to his work with PGFL, he was also a founder of PAC-PAC, which was responsible for LGBT equal rights legislation in Broward County. He formerly sat on the boards of the Dolphin Democratic Club (gay Democrats) and Gays United to Attack Repression and Discrimination (GUARD). At the time of his death PGFL co-chair, Terry Norman, said of Clark, “he was a behind-the-scenes-type of person who
shied away from the limelight and cameras. But whatever needed to be done, he did.” Reverend Grant Ford presided at his funeral, and many people made donations in Clark’s name to his favorite organization, Poverello. “He was a dear friend,” said Father Bill, “and a great champion of LGBT rights at a time when few were.”
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March 29 , 2010 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com
Adoption Training A GLAAD/ACLU Workshop to help us talk about the Florida adoption ban. By Tony Adams
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n Saturday March 20th, at the Hagen Park Community Center in Wilton Manors, the Gay and Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation (GLAAD) in partnership with the Ameri-
Justin Flippen (Left) and Daryl Hannah (Above)
I am an openly gay man, and I can’t adopt.” The attendees received an impromptu presentation from Martin Gill. He and his partner of eight years have been raising two foster children of the state since December 11, 2004. The Department of Children and Families (DCF) now says that it must take the boys from the only true home they have ever known to be placed with straight strangers. Mr. Gill spoke about a question raised in court by his lawyers. “Our lawyers asked if the court would, in the event that the ban is not overturned, allow our kids to remain with us, just as in California when gay marriage was overturned, those gay couples who got married could stay legally married. DCF said no, and that they would immediately call for the removal of the boys from our house and place them in
suitable homes. Had it just been a gay issue, I wouldn’t be here today. It’s my two kids who inspire me.” Mr. Hannah added that many individuals at DCF are actually advocates for adoption by LGBT people. “DCF admits that gay people and straight people make equally good parents. DCF admits that if a child is in foster care with gay foster parents and already adjusted to the placement and the family is meeting the child’s needs, it would be detrimental to the child to move him. DCF admits that the shortage of qualified adoptive parents is a serious problem, and based on the most recent data available from DCF, there are approximately 35,000 children in Florida’s foster care system waiting to be adopted. Florida’s blanket adoption ban costs taxpayers millions of dollars each year.” The workshop concluded with role-playing to test the participants’ understanding of the importance of words and images in one-to-one conversations, media interviews and public speaking. For more information, contact Daryl Hannah, Hannah@glaad.org, (646) 871-8012 or Brandon Hensler, bhensler@aclufl.org, (786) 363-2722.
Do you always need an attorney to represent you when you are injured in an automobile or other accident? can Civil Liberties Union of Florida’s LGBT Advocacy Project (ACLUFL) presented the four-hour workshop Adoption Training. The objective of the workshop was to create a core of people able to go out into their communities and speak fluently and convincingly about the need to end Florida’s ban on adoption by LGBT people. The presentation included an update about the campaign to end the 33 year-old ban. The state of Florida is appealing a Miami-Dade County judge’s November 2008 ruling that the state’s ban on adoption by LGBT parents is unconstitutional. Florida’s adoption ban is the only law in the country that completely excludes LGBT people from adopting. GLAAD Media Field Strategist Daryl Hannah led the workshop offering examples of effective language and messages to change the hearts and minds of that persuadable group labeled “The Moveable Middle”. He instructed the 25 attendees about how to tell their
personal stories in their communities in a winning way. Mr. Hannah provided strategies for staying on message, preparing and giving successful media interviews and writing effective Letters to the Editor and Op-eds. He provided the attendees with a central message that should guide all their words. “This is about what’s in the best interest of children. Opposing adoption by qualified parents hurts children and denies children permanent, stable and forever homes.” Justin L. Flippen, Vice-Mayor of Wilton Manors and candidate for State Representative for District 92, opened the workshop. Before the session, he spoke privately with SFGN. “We need to assemble strong allies and advocates for equality. Recently, the “Do you own a gun?” question was eliminated from the Florida adoption application process, but the question “Are you homosexual?” is still there and that needs to be removed. This issue is personal for me. My mother was adopted.
Even though I have over 30 years experience in representing people who have been injured dure to the negligence of others, the answer is NO. However, in order to make the decision on whether or not you need the services of an attorney, you need to be properly informed of your legal rights. For information which will allow you to make that informed decision, please contact me for a free consultation.
Robert L. Spector Personal Injury Trial Attorney
The hiring of a lawyer is an important decision that should not be based solely upon advertisement. Before you decide, ask the attorney to send you free written information about his or her qualifications and experience.
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March 29 , 2010 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com
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March 29 , 2010 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com
THE REVOLUTION STARTS NOW! GetEqual.org Mobilizes Gays
nity, ‘Get Equal’ promises to bring together people of every sex, gender, race, class, age, ability, look, religion, family status, or citizenship; those who can contribute in small ways, and those who are able to put themselves on the line. In just two days, over 2,500 young activists joined the group. Apparently, thousands more are signing up at getequal.org. You can too. Sign up for this new organization by going to the”Get Equal Facebook Page” or to their website. They also have an online store to generate revenue. The protests are loud and many, reminiscent of forty years ago, when Democratic activists turned against a Democratic president to help stop a foreign war. “We believe there are millions of Americans who are tired of waiting and are ready to act. Our goal is to serve and grow this constituency by helping them take strategic, coordinated, bold action to demand equality, and to hold accountable those who stand in the way,” wrote Williams on their website. Without a doubt it is one of the largest organizations to form outside the Beltway of Washington, DC. In their press release this past Monday they stated: “Emphasizing direct action and people power, the mission of GetEQUAL is to empower the LGBTQ community and its allies to take action to demand full legal and social equality and to hold accountable those who stand in the way. “All over the country we are under attack,” said McGehee. “From the recent actions of the Attorney General in Virginia to
Images
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receptive Congress and a supportive president suggested things were about to change. But with ENDA stalled, DADT postponed, and a barrage of hate campaigners belittling gay leaders as ‘fags,’ no one is saying that rally was not necessary now. The Co Chairs of that march, Kip Williams and Robin McGeehee, are taking the battle for gay civil rights to the streets, with the formation of a group called “Get Equal.” They have the complete support of this paper in every way possible. The talented organizers have spent months since the March on Washington, carefully putting together an effective national network of activists to battle for civil rights for the LGBT community. They have traveled across the country, held retreats with young leaders and worked with March participants to create an entity that will fill the vacuum of the absence of a ‘direct action’ organization in our movement. Seeking a broad and inclusive commu-
by Getty
There was talk last fall that the National Equality March on the steps of the Washington Monument was an unnecessary waste of LGBT energy. Not anymore.
strip away protections for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender people on college and university campuses to the young lesbian student in Mississippi who is being denied the right to take her date to the prom. Nearly, every day there is a new story, but the subject is always the same: we are being bullied. We are no longer willing to sit back and wait—we want change now.” A blog post on Qweerty said it best last week: “What HRC is engaged in is Inactive Activism. Lots of “pretty pleases” and “sir would you permit mes.” They commended Dan Choi for his chaining himself to the White House fence to Above: Lt. protest DADT. On co Dan Choi p rotes ver: c ting hainin Choi has spoken at a g him Califo self t rnia o th rally e Wh out against gay apathy, and last ite H Octob ouse gate er. overt passivity in the face of denying the last week . LGBT community its civil rights. He declared, or their parents’ ““Why not now? Within the gay community love to stand up for who so many leaders want acceptance from po- they are? I’m giving up my military rank, lite society. I think there’s been a betrayal of my unit—which to me is a family—my vetwhat is down inside of us in order to achieve erans’ benefits, my health care, so what are what looks popular, what look enviable. The you willing to sacrifice?” My analysis, based on history, is that we movement seems to be centered around how to become an elite… this shouldn’t be about are at the nadir of a new activist revolution, and the battle is going to be taken where it which group has better branding.” Choi commented to Newsweek: “There belongs, to the streets, and away from the is a tremor right now in every gay and trans- fancy cocktail parties. A younger generation gender youth that these groups are not grasp- of leaders is about to emerge and put an end ing. I would say to them—you do not repre- to the delays and denials and unjust postsent us if all you are looking for is a ladder ponement of civil rights we were always enin to elite society. .. what are you willing to titled to. And so it should be, and so should sacrifice? We are tired of being stereotyped you be with them. Put away the tuxedo, as privileged, bourgeois elites. Is someone ditch the cocktail, and grab a sign, joining willing to give up their career, their relation- the protests in front of the White Houses in ships with powerful people, their Rolodex, your community too. Photo
Analysis by Norm Kent
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March 29 , 2010 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com
Republicans Thwart Obama Nominee By Lisa Keen
Keen News Service
T
he Senate Judiciary Committee was squaring up for a showdown this week over President Obama’s most controversial judicial nominee to date, but that showdown has been indefinitely delayed, while Republicans use a parliamentary delaying tactic on the companion bill to the health care reform law. The nominee is Goodwin Liu, a professor of law at the University of California Berkeley School of Law. President Obama nominated him last month to a seat on the 9th Circuit U.S. Court of Appeals, which covers California and eight other western states. The American Bar Association gave him a “unanimously well-qualified” rating. But he also has a paper trail a mile wide and a mountain high. That trail reads like good news for the LGBT community, but it screams “liberal” to Republicans. Fox News
has reported that Republicans are “champing at the bit to grill Liu, who has described the Constitution as a living document, advocated for same-sex marriage and suggested health care is a right.” Fox says Liu’s nomination “is getting extra attention because conservatives are concerned that he could be on the fast track for the Supreme Court.” Liu is one of four people President Obama has named to federal appeals court positions since February 24. The other three—Ray Lohler Jr. and Robert Chatigny for the 2nd Circuit, and Scott Matheson for the 10th— have relatively quiet credentials. But Liu has been very much part of the public discourse on a number of civil rights issues, including Proposition 8, the initiative which voters in California passed in November 2008 to ban same-sex marriage. In one of many essays he has published in
Breaking News Update
Feldblum, an Out Lesbian, Acquires EEOC Seat By Lisa Keen
Keen News Service
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sing a constitutional provision known as a “recess appointment,” President Obama on Saturday appointed lesbian law professor Chai Feldblum and three others to positions on the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission. As reported in last week’s SFGN, Feldblum and the others had been approved by a Senate committee in early December but their confirmation vote was put on indefinite hold by a Senate Republican. In making the direct appointments for the EEOC, Obama also made 11 other recess appointments of nominees to “critical administration posts.” In a statement, the White House referred to “months of Republican obstruction” to nominees and noted that while the Senate has yet to approve 217
of President Obama’s nominees, President Bush had only 5 still pending at this point in his first term. Numerous right-wing groups voiced opposition to Feldblum shortly after she was nominated. The Traditional Values Coalition called Feldblum “yet another radical Obama nominee,” saying she would “use her power to strip nearly all First Amendment rights of freedom of expression/free exercise of religion from businesses.” Concerned Women for America said she “represents one of the most serious threats to religious freedom we have seen in a long time.” And The Family Research Council said Feldblum “openly admitted to supporting polygamy.” Some predicted that opposition would surface during her confirmation hearing in November. But it didn’t, at least in part because Tom Harkin, the chairman of the Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pen-
Chai Feldblum
various newspapers and publications, Liu told the Los Angeles Times, “there is no question that [Proposition 8] targets a historically vul nerable group and eliminates a very important right.” He has predicted that same-sex marriage will eventuGoodwin Liu ally “become an unremarkable thread of our social fabric” and that those opposing it now will eventually be viewed as a “narrow and ultimately temporary majority.” And he’s characterized U.S. Supreme Court Chief Justice John Roberts as a partisan and divisive figure who is “unfriendly to civil rights.” He signed onto a friend-of-the court brief, prepared by lesbian law scholar Kathleen Sullivan, in the same-sex marriage lawsuit before the California Supreme Court in 2008. The brief argued that the California constitution’s continued on page 47
here –a petition,” said Harkin, “…that you signed onto” that expresses support for “committed loving households in which there are more than one conjugal partner.” “That says polygamy to me,” said Harkin, noting that it is illegal in the United States and that, in the 20-plus years he has worked with her, he never knew she supported polygamy. “I do not support polygamy,” said Feldblum. “I am sorry I signed that document and I have asked that my name be removed.” A spokesperson for Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid said March 1 that Feldblum’s nomination, and that of the other EEOC nominees, had been put on hold by a Republican senator. Any senator can put any nominee on indefinite hold for a period of time without identifying himself or herself. While
sions Committee, which handled the nomination, met the controversy head on. “Something has come to our attention continued on page 40
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March 29 , 2010 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com
National News
Judge Rules Teen’s Rights Violated in Mississippi But Won’t Order School to Hold Prom By Shelia Byrd
hostility and comments from other students led her to miss school. She skipped class on Tuesday to go to the doctor and the fight is Mississippi school district vio- taking a toll, she said. “My nerves are shot,’’ she said. lated a lesbian student’s rights by District officials said in a statement that they banning her from bringing her were ready to get back to girlfriend to the prom, a educating students. federal judge ruled TuesDavidson said a private day, but he stopped short prom parents are planning of forcing the district to will serve the same purhold the event. pose as a school-sponsored U.S. District Judge one. He wrote that “requirGlen H. Davidson refused ing defendants to step back the American Civil Liberinto a sponsorship role at ties Union’s demand to this late date would only force the Itawamba Counconfuse and confound the ty school district to put on community on the issue.’’ the April 2 prom. HowevConstance McMillen McMillen first aper, he said canceling it did proached school officials violate 18-year-old Conabout bringing her girlstance McMillen’s rights friend in December, and and that he would hold a again in February. Sametrial on the issue. sex prom dates had been That would come too late for the prom to be salvaged at Itawamba banned in the past, but she had hoped school Agricultural High School. Still, Kristy Ben- officials would grant her request. “I thought maybe the policy had been in nett, ACLU Mississippi legal director, called place for a different reason,’’ McMillen testithe decision a victory. The American Civil Liberties Union sued fied at a hearing on the ACLU lawsuit. “I the district to force it to put on the prom wanted to let them know how it made me and allow McMillen to bring her girlfriend feel. I felt like I couldn’t go to the prom.’’ She was told two girls couldn’t attend toand wear a tuxedo. School officials said in U.S. District Court this week that they de- gether and she wouldn’t be allowed to wear cided to cancel it because McMillen’s chal- a tuxedo, court documents show. The ACLU issued a demand letter earlier this month lenge to the rules had caused disruptions. The judge noted that McMillen has been and the district responded by canceling the openly gay since she was in the eighth grade event. McMillen, who lives with her grandand that she intended to communicate a mother and has a 3.8 grade point average, message by wearing a tuxedo and escorting has kept her 16-year-old girlfriend out of the spotlight at the request of the girl’s parents. a same-sex date. District officials said they felt not host“The court finds this expression and communication falls squarely within the purview ing the prom was the best decision “after taking into consideration the education, of the First Amendment,’’ Davidson said. As for McMillen, she said she was happy safety and well being of our students.’’ Suabout the ruling but doesn’t know what to perintendent Teresa McNeece said it was “a expect when she returns to school. She at- no-win situation.’’ The 715-student high school is located tended classes a day after the March 10 decision to cancel the prom. But she said the in Fulton, a town of about 4,000 in rural,
Associated Press Writer
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north Mississippi. The entire county school district has 3,588 students. The case is typical of what’s happening in schools across the country, said Charles Haynes, senior scholar for The Freedom Forum First Amendment Center.
“This case is different because this is not just dress, it is a higher claim of personal identity,’’ Haynes said. “I think that if the student prevails in this case, it will send a message to school districts that they need to accommodate students now who are openly gay and lesbian and want to participate in student activities,’’ Haynes said. Her case has become a cause celebre. She has appeared on the “The Early Show,’’ “The Wanda Sykes Show’’ and “The Ellen DeGeneres Show’’ to talk about how she is fighting for tolerance. DeGeneres presented her with a $30,000 college scholarship from Tonic, a digital media company. A Facebook page set up by the ACLU for McMillen has over 400,000 fans.
READ WITH PRIDE
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March 29 , 2010 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com
Jesse’s Journal
with apologies to Thomas Nast
their success, the Dolphins have sucked the air out of Broward’s queer political life. There was a time when our community was led by independent, non-partisan political advocacy groups like the Broward County Coalition for Human Rights, the Tuesday Night Group, GUARD (Gays United to Attack Repression and Discrimination) and the PAC-PAC. Today the only alternatives we have to the Dolphins are the equally partisan (but less successful) Log Cabin Republicans and Sunshine Republicans. As a Democrat, I was proud to be part of a community and a state that helped elect
disgusting lack of will power. The long-awaited health care reform bill is a disaster; going from a concept that everyone favored, to a bill that everyone hates. Unemployment is still high, our men and women are still dying in Iraq and Afghanistan, and cap and trade is still a long way off. Obama and the Democratic Party have disillusioned their friends, energized their enemies, and alienated independents. The question right now is not if the Dems will lose seats in Congress come November but whether or not the Republicans will gain enough seats to retake the House and/or the Senate. The Republicans are evil but the Democrats are incompetent; and frankly I’d rather deal with evil than with incompetence. Like too many other progressives, LGBT activists are sick and tired of being taken for granted by a Democratic Party that takes our votes, our money and our volunteer work and gives us little in return. Admittedly, the Republicans (except for Miami Rep. Ileana RosLehtinen) have done nothing to win our support, being married as they are to homophobic, religious extremists. However, the fact that GOP is controlled by our enemies is besides the point; as is the fact that Democratic clubs like the Dolphins have done great things for our community. As LGBT activists, our priority is to win equal rights for lesbian women, gay men, bisexuals and transgender people and not to elect politicians of one particular party. If the Obama Administration and the Democrats in Congress want our support, they are going to have to earn it. I wrote this article before the U.S. House of Representatives approved the Senate’s Health Care Reform bill, giving President Obama and the Democrats a rare but decisive and well-deserved victory. However, I still believe that Obama could have gotten much better health care legislation last summer if he had displayed stronger leadership and some of the public relations skills that he so brilliantly displayed during the 2008 campaign. Instead, he left health care reform in the hands of an ineffective Congress and allowed the Republicans and the Tea Baggers to dominate the debate. I hope he learned his lesson.
The Danger of Getting Behind the Donkey By Jesse Monteagudo
T
he Dolphin Democrats are South Florida’s oldest, largest and most successful LGBT political organization. Founded in 1982 by Karl Clark, Tom Bradshaw, Jamie Bloodworth and other activists, the Dolphins have made Broward County the most gay-friendly county in a still-homophobic state. Thanks to Dolphin leadership, Broward has both an LGBT-inclusive human rights ordinance and a domestic partners law. Friendly politicians on both the state and local levels owe their success to the votes, money and
volunteer labor of Dolphin members. Gay activist-politicians like Dean Trantalis, Ken Keechl and Justin Flippen have used the Dolphins as a launching pad for their political careers; and our community has been the better for it. I have been a member of the Dolphin Democrats since the early days and have nothing but affection and respect for people who lead that organization. Unquestionably, the Dolphin Democrats are a big success. In fact, the Dolphins are too successful; so successful in fact that it’s almost a given that any up-and-coming LGBT activist in Broward County would join the Dolphins as a matter of course. Thanks to
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Barack Obama President of the United States, along with a Democratic Congress. Just over a year later, Obama remains popular but he and his Congress have failed to deliver most of what they promised us. Though the Matthew Shepard and James Byrd, Jr. Hate Crimes Prevention Act is now the law of the land, the Employment Non-Discrimination Act (ENDA) is going nowhere and both Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell (DADT) and the socalled Defense Of Marriage Act (DOMA) promise to be around for a long time. The recent revelation that the White House really doesn’t want DADT repealed this year was the last straw for too many activists. Our community expects more from this President and this Congress than a few empty gestures or symbolic appointments. In all fairness, we are not alone. Each and every group that worked hard to elect Obama and a Democratic Congress in 2008—antiwar activists, civil libertarians, environmentalists, feminists, labor unions, racial and ethnic minorities has had its collective heart broken by the reality of an ineffective and incompetent Administration and Congress. Our president seems to do a better job hosting parties in the White House than pushing other Democrats to pass his agenda. For their part, the Dems have missed their opportunity to enact useful reforms because of Jesse Monteagudo (jesssemonteagudo@aol.com) is a their distressing inability to unite and their regular contributor to SFGN.
March 29 , 2010 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com
Homophobia in the Caribbean Explored at Symposium at NSU Social, cultural and religious aspects of the issue to be examined April 8-10
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symposium exploring homophobia in the Caribbean will be held at Nova Southeastern University (NSU) on April 8-10. The three-day symposium, featuring presentations, speakers and debates, will be held on NSU’s campus in the Health Professions Division’s Assembly Building at 3200 South University Drive. The event is free and open to the public. “Homophobia is a multifaceted phenomena that touches upon varying perceptions of nationalism, independence and civil rights,” said Jane Cross, director of the Caribbean law programs at NSU’s Shepard Broad Law Center and one of the organizers of the symposium. “Several Commonwealth Caribbean coun tries retain pre-independence sodomy laws, which remain in effect due to both constitutional provisions and social, cultural and religious attitudes. Over the last decade, discrimination and violence against gays have increasingly become a focus of human rights efforts in the region.” The schedule for the symposium is: Thursday, April 8 (7 to 9 p.m.):
Issue Identification Presentation and discussion on Caribbean history and attitudes toward homosexuals in the region. Panelists include: • Charlene Smith, executive director of the Inter-American Center for Human Rights • Jason Campbell, Ph.D., assistant professor in the Department of Conflict Analysis and Resolution at NSU • Jane Cross, program director of the IACHR, director of Caribbean law programs and associate professor of law at NSU • Kathy Gonzalez, an attorney from Trinidad and Tobago Friday, April 9 (7 to 9 p.m.):
Lyrical Assault
Camille Nelson, a visiting professor of law at Hofstra University, will give a presentation titled “Dancehall Music’s Role in Perpetuating Homophobia.” Nelson has written on Jamaican Dancehall music, which is similar to American hip-hop music and often includes homophobic lyrics.
Saturday, April 10 (11 a.m.):
Panel Discussion A panel discussion on homophobia in the Caribbean. Panelists include: • Rev. Robert Griffin, Minister at the Sunshine Cathedral in Fort Lauderdale • Maurice Tomlinson and Jason McFaralane, Jamaica Forum for Lesbians Allsexuals and Gays (J-FLAG) • Camille Nelson, visiting professor of law at Hofstra University • Shahabudeen Khan, critical skills instructor at NSU’s Shepard Broad Law Center • William Adams, dean of the Western University College of Law (moderator)
More information on the symposium is available by calling 954-262-6329.
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March 29 , 2010 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com
‘Gay’ Aging Tougher than ‘Straight’ Aging, Report Says Council Report Details Discrimination Against LGBT Elders By Joey Amato
W
hile many older adults suffer from health issue stemming from stig ma, isolation and unequal treatment, aging dilemmas for gay men are even compounded by other than just medical issues. According to a report by the National Council on Aging and the American Society on Aging in Chicago, Illinois, gay adults are not only more likely to be “poorer and sicker” in their old age when compared to their heterosexual peers, but present laws treat them unjustly. Many older LGBTs’ financial woes arguably can be traced to the fact that subtle discrimination meant thinner paychecks, limited access to health care, and fewer chances to build pensions. For some, it also meant smaller Social Security payments, the council report concluded. Citing a 2009 study, the report noted that lesbian couples’ Social Security benefits are typically 31.5 percent smaller and gay couples’ benefits are 17.8 percent smaller than are those of heterosexual couples, Family members provide about 80 percent of long-term care in the United States, but that’s not the case with LGBT elders, since they are more likely to be single, childless and estranged from their biological families, said the report. That’s just the beginning of the cycle of discrimination. The stunning report cited “official policies, laws and institutional regulations” that offer same-sex partners few of the resources afforded to spouses and biological family members. Stated Wilton Manors attorney Jeff Selzer, known for providing estate planning to the LGBT community, “these are many of the unique issues elder gays encounter. That is why wealth planning is essential to their future.” Selzer’s conclusion was echoed in the report, which noted that laws, programs and services either “don’t acknowledge or don’t
protect the partners” of LGBTs. Another Wilton Manors estate planning attorney agreed. Said Greg Kabel, “LGBT elders need to be forewarned about future problems because the laws do not and will not treat them fairly,” he said. The report cited a 2001 study by the U.S. Administration on Aging that found LGBT elderly are only a fifth as likely as heterosexuals to use such services as senior centers, housing assistance, meal programs, food stamps and other entitlements. “There’s a whole labyrinth of challenges and pitfalls for same-sex couples and LGBTs in general,” said Michael Adams, the executive director of Services & Advocacy for Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual & Transgender Elders, who helped write the report. The report cited these other inequalities as well: • Despite paying into Social Security, LGBT elders don’t get the same benefits that their heterosexual peers get, with the biggest difference being that same-sex couples are denied spousal and survivor benefits routinely provided to married heterosexual couples. • Similar disparities occur in Medicaid and long-term care programs. Medicaid
does not require a healthy partner to impoverish himself or herself to qualify a spouse for long-term care. But spousal impoverishment protections do not exist for same-sex couples and families of choice. • LGBT elders’ IRAs and other retirement plans have benefits that are unequal to those enjoyed by heterosexual couples. • Employer policies regarding pensions do not provide surviving partners of same-sex couples with the same financial protections that are accorded heterosexual couples, the report said. • Under federal tax law, employers can provide health insurance to the heterosexual spouse of a current or retired employee tax-free, but insurance benefits for partners in same-sex couples are taxable. • A surviving heterosexual spouse can inherit the couple’s assets without incurring a tax penalty, but federal and state law requires same-sex partners to pay inheritance taxes in some cases. • Heterosexual spouses of military veterans get federal benefits, including pensions for spouses of service members killed in combat, medical care and home-loan guarantees, none of which is available to same-
sex partners of veterans. • It is typically more complex and expensive for same-sex couples to navigate inheritance laws than it is for heterosexual couples. The disparities also extend to health care, with LGBT elders more likely to delay getting needed care and more likely to have HIV/AIDS and chronic mental and physical conditions, the report said. Even personnel at places that deliver health care may discriminate, it said. “These providers may be hostile, discriminatory, or simply unaware that LGBT elders exist,” it said. Nursing homes sometimes have staff who create unwelcome environments for LGBT elders and rules—such as visitation policies and medical decision-making laws—that exclude families of choice, it said. Social isolation can loom large as a quality-of-life issue among LGBT elders, who are more likely than others to live alone, the report said. Such isolation has been linked to higher rates of depression, poverty, re-hospitalization, delayed care-seeking, poor nutrition and premature death, the report said. Not only do LGBT elders lack support from many mainstream aging programs, including senior centers and places of worship, but elder LGBTs tend to lack support from and feel unwelcome in the broader LGBT community, it said. Finally, LGBT elders may face discrimination in connecting to their communities by being denied housing in mainstream retirement communities. “This discrimination may separate LGBT elders from loved friends or partners, or push them into homelessness,” it said, adding, “LGBT elders may also feel the need to re-enter or stay in the closet in order to obtain or maintain housing.” Adams expressed optimism that changes will occur, but slowly. “It’s taken decades and decades to build up this neglect, and we’re not going to solve it overnight,” he said. He said he was asking that the government apply “a neutral policy” to LGBT older people, according them the same protections and services accorded to heterosexuals. He cited the Social Security and Medicaid programs as discriminatory. The report was released in collaboration with the Movement Advancement Project and such mainstream groups as the National Senior Citizens Law Center and the Center for American Progress. The foreword to the 90-page report came from AARP.
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Care Resource Dines Out
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n a call to action, local non-profit organization Care Resource is asking restaurants for their participation in Dining Out For Life. This extraordinary one-day international fundraising event takes place in more than 50 metropolitan areas and benefits HIV/AIDS organizations in participating cities. Care Resource is once again the beneficiary of the event in South Florida. Restaurants can participate by making a donation to the agency and in return will be part of an extensive marketing campaign that drives traffic to their locations. The adver-
PHOTO COURTESY OF BOGART’S BAR & GRILLE
March 29 , 2010 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com
tising campaign for Dining Out For Life 2010 is estimated at more than 4,000,000 impressions in a two-month promotion. The campaign encompasses Miami-Dade, Broward, and Palm Beach counties and includes print, Internet, radio, and television. Participating in Dining Out For Life is a great way to drive new business while giving back to the local community. Care Resource is an HIV/AIDS community service organization which provides services including medical, dental, and psychosocial services, drug trials and a food bank. For more details, visit Diningoutforlife.com.
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March 29 , 2010 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com
Saluting ‘Midge’ Costanza and History Who Was There
SFGN Editorial 3/29/2010 Norm Kent Publisher
M
argaret “Midge” Costanza, 77, passed away last week, almost 33 years to the day she forged LGBT history in America. In lieu of a news story we commemorate her life in this editorial. The White House. 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue. Until Saturday, March 26, 1977, its doors had never been opened to lesbians and gay men and straight allies. But on that historic day, more than a dozen women and men entered the West Wing of the presidential residence to meet with Midge Costanza, the director of President Jimmy Carter’s Office of Public Liaison. Heads high and carrying briefing papers on topics of concern and interest to lesbians and gay men around the country, National Gay Task Force co-directors Bruce Voeller and Jean O’Leary led a delegation into the Roosevelt Room where a three-hour briefing of presidential staff got under way. Later, one
White House staffer noted that the group basis of sexual orientation in hiring, education presented the most thoroughly prepared is- and public accommodations. They included religious and family issues in their presentasue briefings he had ever heard. A press conference on the White House tions and spoke of the pain and suffering of lawn followed the meeting, at which O’Leary lesbians and gay men at the hands of church proudly proclaimed, “History was made to- leaders and family members. Following the historic meeting, day!” It surely was, and the Costanza arranged meetings bevictories we celebrate in city tween Task Force representatives commissions and state legand all of the agencies specifically islatures today evolve out of named by the delegation, except historic moments such as days the IRS. But by June 1977, the like this particular one- moIRS dropped its requirement that ments we must never forget lesbian and gay groups applying and always salute. for tax-exempt status agree not Members of the delegation to assert that homosexuality is as briefed their hosts on discrimiMargaret Costanza morally upright as heterosexunatory treatment of lesbians and gay men at the Internal Revenue Service, ality and not hold meetings at which homothe Departments of Defense, Housing and sexuals would gather and possibly violate state Urban Development, Health Education and sodomy laws. You see, 33 years ago, a gay and Welfare, the Federal Communications Com- lesbian community center could have been mission, the Bureau of Prisons and the Immi- civilly outlawed. The criticism of the Carter White House that gration and Naturalization Service. They pointed out that the U.S. Civil Rights followed the LGBT forum was intense. But Ms. Commission took no interest in discrimination Costanza, a petite, energetic woman who once and prejudice against our communities. The described herself as “a loud-mouthed, pushy noble group of courageous activists pushed for little broad,” was outspokenly committed to support of federal nondiscrimination legisla- women’s issues, gay rights and social justice tion that would prohibit discrimination on the for minority groups. She stood by us and our
Gay and lesbian leaders: Jean O’Leary, Co-Director, National Gay Task Force; Bruce Voeller, Co-Director, National Gay Task Force; Elaine Noble, Massachusetts State Representative, Boston; Bishop Troy Perry, Los Angeles*; Ray Hartman, Los Angeles; Myra Riddell, Los Angeles; Charlotte Spitzer, Los Angeles; Frank Kameny,Washington, D.C.*; Charles Brydon, Seattle*; George Raya, Sacramento; Betty Powell, Co-Chair Task Force Board of Directors, New York*; Charlotte Bunch, New York*; William Kelley, Chicago; Pokey Anderson, Houston
right to be part of the political process. The pressing needs of lesbians and gay men began to be responded to by our federal government—for the first time ever. Cancer claimed Costanza last week. Most recently, she had been a professor at San Diego State University, and was working in her last days to develop the Midge Costanza Institute, aimed at inspiring young people to become active in political and social causes. NGLTF Executive Director Rea Carey eulogized Costanza last week, noting that “she took a risk in working to ensure our voices were heard at the highest echelons of government. In this regard, she was a pioneer.” She surely was. Yes, it was a long time ago, but the battle activists engaged decades ago is still being fought by newer task forces and younger LGBT leaders. Our mission as a free community newspaper is to share those lives with you, and we can only do so with your continuing support and sponsorship. Thank you for helping make our first ten issues possible. The message of ‘Midge’ is that we can never let up, and we can all be pioneers. She was there for us when it counted, when few else were, and now she will be cherished by us forevermore. May we all live our lives to be so remembered.
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March 29 , 2010 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com
Off the Wall
by Piero Guidugli
we are far from being a united community. After all these years, we cannot even agree on what to call ourselves. Some object to gay, others to queer, some to homosexual. One reader invites us to find a new word to describe our community, while the next in line wants to bring back faggot, or ban it. “Variant” was proposed as an alternative together with “Nonhetero”. Readers are finding faults with each of the words, though a few of the comments were tongue and cheek, or so I hope. Wow! If so much energy and thought was put into fighting police brutality, police entrapment, gay bashing, bar raids, corruption and hate spewing churches we would be much closer to obtaining equality with our straight counterparts and the gay community would have a better sense of its own self worth. So why do we care? It doesn’t matter what name is used to describe who or what we are, as the ancient Romans used to say “Sumus quo Sumus” (made famous by “La Cage aux
Folles” opening number “We Are What We Are”). Each one of us should know who he is without the need for an approved moniker. Pick the one you like, use them interchangeably, wear them according to your moods, or just plain utter them to shock people. Be what you want to be. Find a name for all seasons. Embrace them and you will defuse their stronghold over you. Don’t worry about what people think. They don’t do it very often. A walk through the valley of most souls will barely leave your feet wet. It’s what you think that matters. Be proud and be comfortable with who you are. Call yourself what you want. Isn’t it nice to have such a big basket to choose from? I’m so comfortable with my identity that you can call me finocchio anytime. I couldn’t care less anymore. In fact, I kind of like it now. I even told my mother I love fennel and when she asks: “would you like a finocchio?,” my answer is “Oh absolutely mamma, bring a few home for dinner.”
policy. I didn’t support Obama in the primaries. I’m as worried as the next person about how we’re going to pay for it. But there is something I do understand and respect, and November. The politithat is principle and cal calculations tend to courage in politics. turn on which changes Obama and Nancy go into effect first and Pelosi have earned my whether people will see benefits—or costs—by The elephant as a symbol of obstruction respect and, I suspect, by the Republican Party, first used by the respect of many the time they vote in cartoonist Thomas Nast in 1874 others for displaying November. Will parents who can keep their kids on precisely those qualities under enormous their health insurance until they are 26 (a big- fire. Against the loud voices of naysayers, gie for the middle class) reward the president? against the drumbeat of polls, they did what What about the fact that kids can’t be exclud- they set out to do. People say they want politicians to have ed for pre-existing conditions? Those changes will happen quickly, while the additional the courage of their convictions, until they taxes on the wealthiest Americans will not go do. Pundits criticize political leaders for livinto effect until 2014. Will the president be ing by the polls, until they don’t. Obama ran blamed for higher premiums that were esca- for president on the promise to enact comlating before the bill’s passage, or will Demo- prehensive health care reform, and then he crats get credit for new incentives for small risked his presidency to do just that. Pelosi businesses to provide coverage? Time will tell. never backed down. Sure, there were back-room deals and promBut those are not the only factors to be ises and compromises. Politics was played in considered. There is, first of all, the question of con- Washington. In Las Vegas, they still gamble. viction. I’m not an expert on health care But at the end of the day, the sausage was made,
as promised. Whether or not you support this president and this bill, you have to admire the guts and determination of this president and this speaker. The president showed guts. In my book, he deserves the glory. Republicans showed no guts. Not a single Republican has had the courage to cross the aisle. Not a single Republican has been willing to do anything but “just say no.” “No” is not the answer to the health care crisis. “No” will not help parents of sick children; or parents of unemployed 20-somethings; or middle-class folks who can’t find the good jobs that bring health insurance and can’t afford the astronomical rates found in the individual market even for those without pre-existing conditions. Republicans took the easy way out, as they continue to do this week, playing procedural games in the hopes of accomplishing exactly nothing. As Democrats have scrambled to fix the bill, to meet objections, to compromise even on issues many of us hold near and dear (abortion, the public option, etc.), Republicans have been willing to compromise on nothing. And for this they expect to be rewarded by voters? I wouldn’t be so sure. No guts, no glory. As for me, I’ll take a party of conviction and courage over a bunch of naysayers and do-nothings any day.
Call Me ‘Finocchio’
‘F
inocchio’ is the most common word used in the Italian language to describe a male ho-
mosexual. You will, however, not find it in the dictionary with this caption. In the Italian vernacular it is the equivalent of ‘faggot’ or ‘fag.’ On the other hand, the dictionary will tell you that ‘finocchio’ is the vegetable ‘fennel.’ The dark and strange connection to homosexuality has its origins in medieval times, when people accused of witchcraft were burned at the stake. As the pyre was prepared, it was covered with fennel leaves. Why? Its aroma helped masking the smell of burning flesh. The word took on a life of its own and now, many centuries later, it is powerful as ever- the premier Italian slur for all things gay.
Susan Estrich
I grew up hearing the word describe anybody suspected of being queer. I was petrified of being called finocchio, to the point that I lied to my mother and told her I did not like fennel, hoping then she would not buy it—then the word finocchio would not be uttered at home. I had a fear that the mere mentioning of ‘finocchio’ in the house would unmask me in front of the whole family. That’s the power of words. They can be intimidating, oppressive, or self deprecating.They can also be liberating. As gays, at one time or another, we have been called Queers, Fags, Faggots, Homos, Poofs, Poofters,Queens, Fairies,plus a whole series of obscenities that cannot be printed without a warning. From the comments that have been posted on SFGN after the article “Who’s in the Soup” was published, I sadly realize that
Guts and Glory on the Hill
N
o Republicans supported Medicare in the House of Representatives until it reached the floor. It came out of the House Ways and Means and Rules committees on strict party-line votes. On the procedural vote that brought Medicare to a vote, exactly 10 Republicans voted for the bill. Only when it was clear that Democrats had the votes did it become a “bipartisan” bill, passing with the support of 70 Republicans and 237 Democrats. In the Senate, 13 Republicans voted for Medicare; the rest of the votes came from Democrats. Today, Medicare is the “third rail” in American politics. Republicans were, in a word, wrong—wrong on the policy and wrong on the politics. They remained the minority party in the House for the next three decades. Could the same thing happen with President Obama’s health care reform bill? I think it could. Everyone has been fixated on the risks to Democrats—whether or not it’s good politics, whether they will pay in
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March 29 , 2010 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com
Dutch Gay Soldiers Threaten Libel Lawsuit Against US General’s Homophobic Remarks
The ‘Pink Army’ Seeks your Donations By Richard Gary
O
ne week after a retired U.S. Marine general told a Senate panel that the Dutch military was ineffective because it allowed openly gay soldiers, a group of those soldiers announced that they are going to sue for libel. De Volkskrant, a national daily in the Netherlands, reported that gay Dutch soldiers are planning a lawsuit against Ret. Gen. John Sheehan, who caused an international storm of protest by blaming the presence of gay soldiers for the Dutch army’s failure to prevent the 1995 massacre in Srebrenica. The San Diego Gay and Lesbian Times broke the story. The Pink Army foundation is rounding up at least seven gay Dutch soldiers to join the class action lawsuit, which would be filed in a federal court in California, de Volkskrant reported. Pink Army will demand that Sheehan publish a full-page apology in the interna-
tional press—and attend a course in sensitivity training. Meanwhile, folks in the Netherlands are still furious over the outrageous comments. The Dutch government, various political parties and military leaders immediately expressed anger and disgust with Sheehan’s remarks. The Netherlands was the first country where gay soldiers could openly avow their homosexuality. Homosexuals are equal in every area and have the same rights, duties and capabilities as other citizens in the Netherlands. While the Pink Army wants to go to court with a lawsuit in California, they are seeking financial support to underwrite the expense. Contributors are encouraged to display the Pink Army logo on their Web site. Publisher Norm Kent said SFGN will do so. Immediate donations can be made via Paypal.com at account PinkArmy2010@rocketmail.com
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March 29 , 2010 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com
Deb Price
she told senators. “I expected negative responses. I got none. My open service had a positive impact on the ship’s morale. I was able to treat my shipmates like human beings, and we could interact on a personal level,” she said, asking to be allowed to return to duty. Kopfstein offered senators a peek into how being open can boost a military unit’s cohesion and morale. Senators got a different peek—into the ugly side of the policy—from Michael D. Almy, a decorated Air Force major: Discharge proceedings starte d against him after his Twelve veterans who were dismissed under the DADT policy asked personal emails, sent a federal court in 2007 to reinstate their lawsuit challenging the policy. Among them is Jenny L. Kopfstein.They are represented by C. while serving in Iraq, Dixon Osburn of the Servicemembers Legal Defense Network. were read during a rouby “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” and the core Navy tine search. That resulted in a commanding officer ordering an in-depth search of his emails values of honesty and integrity. After coming out, as she told the Sen- to see whether he violated “Don’t Ask.” Almy endured 16 “devastating” months ate Armed Services Committee on March 18, she won medals, a ship-handling con- as the military worked its way toward his test, and the respect and support of her ouster. In the end, he received half of what shipmates. Her two commanding officers his severance pay would have been under testified—futilely—against her being dis- normal circumstances. And, in what he described as a “final insult,” he was escorted off charged for being openly gay. “I had come out in my letter officially, and I his base by military police “as if I were a comcame out slowly over time to my shipmates,” mon criminal.”
Imagine No ‘Don’t Ask’
I
magine an America where an openly lesbian Navy officer is specifically reached out to by her ship’s commanding officer to ensure she knows she’s welcome to bring the guest of her choice to a party at his home, just like her shipmates. The lesbian officer brings her partner. And they’re warmly greeted by the ship’s commander and his wife. The lesbian couple comfortably mingles with the spouses and dates of the rest of the crew. In fact, the lesbian officer feels so overjoyed by the evening that she later recalls: “We were the life of the party! It was very normal. My shipmates were very supportive of me.” A John Lennon-esque utopian dream? Something far, far away? Hardly. This was the real-life experience of Jenny L. Kopfstein, a Naval Academy graduate who served openly in the Navy for more than two years before she was discharged as a lieutenant junior grade. Before coming out on the USS Shiloh, she had been upset by the conflict between the self-protective lies and half-truths required
Wayne Besen
Republicans Need to Rethink Rhetoric
I
n 1995, House Majority leader Dick Armey (R-Tex.) referred to Rep. Barney Frank (D-Mass) as “Barney Fag.” He quickly apologized calling his verbiage a “slip of the tongue.” Fifteen years later, the obstreperous Tea Party Tea Bagger movement that Armey is behind showed no such restraint, with members boldly calling Frank a “faggot” during the healthcare debate, while the crowd stood by and laughed. They also used the Nword to taunt civil rights hero, Rep. John Lewis (D-Ga.), as he entered the Capitol to vote. Can the media please stop pretending that the Tea Party is an amalgam of small government conservatives and anxious Americans concerned about their families? What we just witnessed was not spontaneous, nor was it a genuine outpouring of anger towards Wash-
ington. It was privileged D.C. Republicans shilling for the insurance industry while posing as populists. To obscure their genuine goals, they mobilized racists and riff raff to throw tyrannical tantrums in an effort to intimidate lawmakers. Watch almost any interview with Tea Baggers on the healthcare bill. They display a shocking lack of understanding about what they were actually protesting. Many condemn “socialized” medicine while not realizing that Medicare is a government program. These “good folks” have consistently regurgitated stale and misleading GOP talking points about “death panels” that they heard on FOX News. Sure, there are some Tea Baggers who don’t fit this unflattering description. But one
He told senators: “My greatest desire now is to return to the Air Force as an officer and a leader protecting the freedoms of a nation that I love, freedoms that I myself was not allowed to enjoy while I was serving in the military. This is my calling in life. I hope that you will allow this to happen.” The duo’s riveting testimony underscored the disgrace of this policy, which requires uniformed gays to stay closeted and celibate. Other recent pressure for change: • Shackles: Two gay Iraq veterans—Lt. Dan Choi, an Arabic linguist being kicked out of the National Guard, and already discharged Army Capt. James Pietrangelo— chained themselves to the White House fence March 18 to protest DADT. Both later appeared in court in leg irons and handcuffs. • Senate bill: Repeal legislation introduced March 3 by Sen. Joe Lieberman, the Military Readiness Enhancement Act of 2010, has 25 co-sponsors. • Vets survey: Vet Voice Foundation released a survey on March 15 of 510 veterans of the Iraq and Afghanistan wars. By three to one, the vets are “comfortable” with gays and would find it “acceptable” to serve with open gays. Former Navy officer Kopfstein told Congress that the “universal attitude” of her shipmates was that DADT was “dumb.” It’s getting easy to imagine a world without “Don’t Ask.”
couraged the mob from a would have to be intelsecond story balcony on lectually dishonest to the Capitol, as the emdeny the role extremists powered crowd yelled are playing in this moveslogans through bullment. It is also worth horns such as, “Nancy noting that those who Pelosi, you will burn in are reportedly not fringe hell for this.” These grossideologues are nonethely irresponsible lawmakers less eerily comfortable even encouraged anarchy protesting alongside the by cheering a protester more fanatical goons. who was ejected from The thuggish tacthe House chamber for tics—from the ugly Aua disruptive outburst. gust “town brawls” to In my view, Repubthe race-baiting rallies licans have crossed a on Capitol Hill—were dangerous line that grotesque and anti-demO ne of conservative A nn C oulter ’ s pro threatens the fabric and ocratic. Many of these vocative book titles, “Treason” cohesion of this nation. so-called “patriots” were not putting forth real arguments in the interest They are courting and catering to crazies of America—but simply arguing loudly to bul- and now call them a core constituency. ly opponents and drown out genuine debate. The GOP leadership is consistently comIt was disgusting to watch Republican municating in illogical, apocalyptic terms members of Congress egg on this unruly be- to reach “Values Voters” who are excitedly havior. Several grandstanding politicians en continued on page 46
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March 29 , 2010 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com
Jeffrey Seth Selzer, ESQ. • Scott A. Weiss, ESQ.
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egularly practicing yoga exercises may lower a number of compounds in the blood and reduce the level of inflammation that normally rises because of both normal aging and stress, a new study has shown. It can even help those living with HIV. The study, done by Ohio State University researchers and just reported in the journal Psychosomatic Medicine, showed that women who routinely practiced yoga had lower amounts of the cytokine interleukin-6 in their blood. The women also showed smaller increases in IL-6 after stressful experiences than did women who were the same age and weight but who were not yoga practitioners. IL-6 is an important part of the body’s inflammatory response and has been implicated in HIV disease, heart disease, stroke, type-2 diabetes, arthritis, and a host of other diseases. Reducing inflammation may provide substantial short- and long-term health benefits, the researchers suggest. “In addition to having lower levels of inflammation before they were stressed, we also saw lower inflammatory responses to stress among the expert yoga practitioners in the study,” explained Janice Kiecolt-Glaser, professor of psychiatry and psychology and lead author of the study.
“Hopefully, this means that people can eventually learn to respond less strongly to stressors in their everyday lives by using yoga and other stress-reducing modalities.” Ron Glaser, a coauthor and a professor of molecular virology, immunology, and medical genetics, said the study has some fairly clear implications for health. “We know that inflammation plays a major role in many diseases. Yoga appears to be a simple and enjoyable way to add an intervention that might reduce risks for developing heart disease, diabetes and other age-related diseases” he said. “This is an easy thing people can do to help reduce their risks of illness,” he added.
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23
March 29 , 2010 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com
Michael Goodman
BUSINESS
A Good Man for Public Relations
By Joey Amato
M
ichael Goodman is a man who I had heard of for many years, but had not yet had the opportunity to meet. His firm, Bitner Goodman is one of the largest and most respected full-service marketing companies in South Florida. A native of Spring Valley, NY, Goodman relocated to South Florida in 1972, when his parents decided to escape the harsh North eastern winters. After landing a part-time position at a PR agency, Goodman realized he had found his calling. “I started making $5 an hour to clip and paste news clips. I never imagined I would be the co-owner of one of the leading PR firms in South Florida.” Goodman has always been involved in some aspect of public relations. Prior to joining Bitner Goodman, he gained experience as a Special Events Manager for Macy’s and as the Communications/Development Manager at Broward House. “This job changed my life as it propelled my career with the opportunity to expose my passion and proFor more on Bitner Goodman, visit BitnerGoodman.com
remember my first gay bar experience at Backstreet on a Sunday night and pulsating throughout the club was the song “It’s Raining Men”. It has not stopped raining since.” The time when The Weather Girls ruled the pop charts was a different time. Being gay was not as socially accepted as it is today. “I recall being in meetings with community and business leaders and when the issue of the gay community would come up, it was a big joke and I felt powerless, Goodman recalls. “I feel very blessed. My openness as a gay man has ultimately allowed me to be more successful all areas of my life.” In addition, Goodman’s enjoys cooking for friends at his homes in Fort Lauderdale and Palm Springs. But when he is not in the kitchen, people may catch him dining at his
fessional abilities; and equally important, it personally brought me more in touch with the realities of HIV/AIDS.” When he was asked to join his agency in 1995, Sawgrass Mills was his first client. Today, Bitner Goodman sports an impressive roster of clients, including Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino, the Simon Property Group of malls, Winn-Dixie and the Florida Department of Transportation.The company currently employs 17 full-time staff in Fort Lauderdale, 4 in Orlando and is growing despite rough economic conditions. Goodman states, “One of the biggest challenges is finding the right talent to maintain our company’s respected image and balancing time and resources to make sure that every client is getting 200% of our attention.” Fifteen years after joining the firm, Goodman wouldn’t change a thing. “I love what I do. I say I am a matchmaker of sorts—I connect people with other people to pursue concepts, ideas and opportunities, which ultimately helps individuals and businesses reach their potential.” He continues, “It helps to have a business partner, Gary Bitner, who shares the same passions and respects my professional skills and life choices.” Business isn’t the only thing on Goodman’s mind. He is an avid traveler. “I love leisure travel, movies, theater, dining and credit card transactions…meaning I love to shop,” Goodman states. This past October, he enjoyed a leisurely three week cruise of the Mediterranean. Despite his active lifestyle, Goodman admits to being a homebody. “I hate to admit it, but I can be a real couch potato. I watch everything from Clean House and Law & Order SVU to RuPaul’s Drag Race and Roseanne.” Being an openly gay man has also impacted his life. Goodman stepped out of the closet in 1984 and has been an active member of the gay community ever since. “Coming out was a very liberating experience. I
two favorite restaurants, The Capital Grille and Trulucks at The Galleria Mall. Goodman’s work stretches beyond the conference room. He is actively involved with numerous local arts organizations. He is the immediate past Board Chair of ArtServe, immediate past Vice-Chair and honorary board member of the Art and Culture Center of Hollywood and Board Secretary of the Florida Theatrical Association. “The arts provide a wonderful way for people to communicate different thoughts and ideas—art creates the opportunity for dialogue about important issues and life-changing experiences.” Furthermore, Goodman supports AIDSrelated organizations such as Poverello Center, plans to do more in support of the fight against the disease. “HIV/AIDS has changed the world and especially the gay community; so I see the need for continued research and support, as well as compassion for those affected by this health challenge.”
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March 29 , 2010 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com
Humor
Q Scopes By Jack Fertig
Look wise, Virgo! Venus in Taurus, Mars in Leo and Jupiter in Pisces are all strong and happy but in discordant aspects, suggesting way too much of many good things. Slow down to enjoy them longer and better! ARIES (March 20 – April 19: Think twice before acting on playful urges.You’re in a stubborn mood, not likely to stop what you’ve started. Thoughtless advances are likely to offend others and can also leave you very open and vulnerable to embarrassment. TAURUS (April 20 – May 20): You can stand out now in community politics, but whatever you get into you are likely to bite off more than you can chew. Keep your vision focused and clear. Offer ideas and suggestions freely, but commit time and energy very carefully. GEMINI (May 21- June 20): Whatever you say and how well you keep secrets will influence your reputation. Keeping secrets is the hard part, and yours are especially open to exposure. Try to look wise and spiritual with patient ears and a very discreet mouth. CANCER (June 21- July 22): Arguments are hard to avoid. Try to keep them on a loftier plane. It’s too easy to squabble over money; better to debate about the economy. But about money… Any accounts that aren’t clear and honest are likely to be troublesome. LEO (July 23 – August 22): Be skeptical of any encouragement to push your already strong stardom, especially as a sexual idol, warrior or shaman. Good as you are, there’s a strong push to overreach. Remember Icarus, and beware of your own tendency to hubris. VIRGO (August 23 – September 22): If you’re looking for love, look wise and a little aloof. If you have love, address problems in a clean, factual way without arguing. It’s usually quite all right to say “Can we discuss this later?” and bring it back up next week. LIBRA (September 23 – October 22):You could look a little too sexy with friends egging you on to turn up the heat. Especially while working with others, whether on the job or in volunteer work, your erotic charge could make trouble. SCORPIO (October 23 – November 21): “Playing well with others” is good, but can be overdone. Creative efforts at morale building
with colleagues can easily be seen as disruptive, painting you as an instigator. Advance your ideas a bit more carefully. SAGITTARIUS (November 22 – December 20): Of course you have more important things to argue about than housework. For domestic tranquility – and really to save more energy in the long run – just be agreeable and go along with whatever your housemates ask. This can also be a learning experience! CAPRICORN (December 21 – January 19): Usually the soul of discretion, you’re being more open about your erotic games – or someone else’s.You may want to slow down and think about what will get back to whom, or what rumors will fly. AQUARIUS (January 20 – February 18): Domestic arguments could prove very costly. Not dealing with problems can get even more expensive. Be creative (but not too creative!) and open-minded. Finding common ground and solutions is more important than being right. PISCES (February 19 – March 19): A recent run of good luck could make you cocky, especially in your work. Humility and attention to detail will serve you better than active self-promotion. Let your work speak for itself! It’s a great time to start a plan to get fit and trim. Jack Fertig, a professional astrologer since 1977, is available for personal and business consultations in person in San Francisco, or online everywhere. He can be reached at 415-864-8302, through his Web site at www.starjack. com, and by e-mail at QScopes@qsyndicate.com.
Answers to Crossword Puzzle on page 42
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March 29 , 2010 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com
Blowing Kisses Reviving ‘Stop Kiss’ at Empire Stage page 28
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March 29 , 2010 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com
Entertainer of the Week
Nightlife by J.W. Arnold
“Thank you, Easter Bunny…”
I
’m dating myself a bit, but every year around this time I recall the 1982 M&Ms commercial.You know the one I’m talking about—in fact, you’ve probably posted it on your Facebook page or viewed it on YouTube—the commercial with all the little children discovering M&Ms in their Easter baskets and then thanking the Easter Bunny.The best part comes at the end, when two little boys dressed as a chicken and an egg offer their thanks, followed by a much imitated, “bawk, bawk.” While many of the local bars, clubs and destinations are saluting the Easter Bunny abstractly, in terms of “Alice in Wonderland” parties featuring the March Hare, we think the local queens may also draw inspiration from Irving Berlin’s classic film, “Easter Parade,” by donning their Easter bonnets for a stroll down the drive. We’re not talking your ordinary chapeaus, either, but over-the-top, campy headdresses that could only be inspired by a trip down the rabbit hole.
S
peaking of Bunnies Costume Diva drag queen Lady for Rocky Bunny was featured on the Horror Picture Thursday, March 25 S how Party episode of American Public Radio’s “Marketplace” program. No, she wasn’t projecting the resulting stimulus to the economy from her recent shopping spree, but rather was talking about the challenges of clubs and DJs to attract and hold younger audiences. Did you know she is also a celebrity DJ? Anyway, she noted that 80s tunes, once hip and retro, is so “yesterday” and 90s tunes are so “now”. I’m dating myself again, but I guess the sigh of relief I breathed when the Spice Girls disbanded was just a little premature! If you’re lucky enough to be on Spring Break or just looking to get out of the house, here are a few highlights of the week ahead in South Florida: Tuesday, March 30
D
udes, located just off Oakland Park Blvd. and Route A1A in Fort Lauderdale, goes retro tonight with DJ Jay. Enjoy the music and videos of the 70s, 80s and 90s and don’t miss the bar’s famous dancers.
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Wednesday, March 31
oardwalk concludes its month-long 25th anniversary celebration with one last blow-out! You can still get an invitation to the exclusive VIP party from 6 to 9 p.m., but even if you don’t, owner Victor Zepka promises the festivities will continue late into the night. Don’t miss your last chance to spin the wheel for fabulous prizes while Boardwalk’s hot dancers spin on the bar. Boardwalk is at 1721 N. Andrews Ave. in Fort Lauderdale. If you’re near the beach, Whiskey Blue in the swanky new W hotel has a new party for gay men and lesbians, Indulge Wednesdays, from 8 p.m. to 2 p.m. DJ Danny Stern will be in the booth spinning hump day tunes.The W is located at 401 N. Fort Lauderdale Beach Blvd. Thursday, April 1
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hursdays are a great night to relax and recharge before the weekend. Luce restaurant and bar in Hollywood has the answer, the cool jazz sounds of vocalist and guitarist Davis and Dow.The first show begins at 7 p.m. and drinks are two-for-one until 8 p.m. Friday, April 2
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here’s a new ladies night in Miami Beach —Rebel Fridays at Crème Lounge, 727 Lincoln Lane. Presented by Icandee Events and Lady admix, Rebel Fridays offer lots of drink specials—$3 Budweiser beer and $5 well drinks—but best of all are the sexy pole dancers for the ladies’ viewing pleasure. $6 cover until 12:30 a.m. Do the “Time Warp” at Manor tonight.The restaurant and entertainment complex hosts a Rocky Horror Picture Show party with DJ Daisy D. in the booth. Better yet, dress up in costume and get a free drink. No cover.The Manor is located at 2345 Wilton Dr. Friday, April 2 & Saturday, April 3
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ltra chic Fort Lauderdale nightclub Living Room and Miami’s Discotekka join forces again this weekend, this time with a pair of outrageous parties based on director Tim Burton’s wacky take on the immortal characters of Lewis Carroll. “Alice in Naughtyland” kicks off Friday at Living Room and continues Saturday at Discotekka.You won’t want to be late for this tea party!
SANDRA BERNHARD with her band, live in concert at the Parker Playhouse on Saturday, March 27. The performance was a benefit for Broward House. Photo by J.R. Davis
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March 29 , 2010 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com
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ony Kenny’s Celtic Nights A spirited celebration of the sights and sounds, the music, rhythms, the humor, the passion … the essence of Ireland.Tony Kenny, the Emerald Isle’s multi-talented favorite son, will have you singing, toetapping, cheering and laughing along with his all-star cast in this entertainment extravaganza that exudes Irish energy.The show will also feature the best in Irish humor from Joe Cuddy and The Dublin City Dancers. March 31 at the Kravis Center for the Performing Arts. Tickets start at $25. www.kravis.org.
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ill Cosby Legendary comedian, best-selling author, television star, educator – whatever the endeavor, Bill Cosby has touched the lives of millions of people around the world. His unique brand of storytelling humor, delivered with inimitable phrasing, always tickles the funny bone while warming the heart. April 1 at the Kravis Center for the Performing Arts.Tickets start at $15. www. kravis.org.
March 29 , 2010 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com
leader, came together to create one of the most powerful movements ever known to mankind. April 1 at the Broward Center for the Performing Arts. Tickets start at $25. www.browardcenter.org.
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he Blanks A cappella music is suddenly cool, hip and funny, thanks to “The Blanks,” best known as “Ted’s Band” on the long-running television comedy Scrubs. Whether it’s life imitating art, or art imitating life, their unique brand of “comapella” is winning over audiences everywhere with funny versions of pop covers and TV series title songs from “Charles in Charge” to the “Six Million Dollar Man,” plus skits, antics, choreography, costume changes and great entertainment for all ages. April 3 at the Broward Center for the Performing Arts. Tickets start at $25. www.browardcenter.org.
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amma Mia! Mamma Mia! is the ultimate feelgood show that has audiences coming back again and again to relive the thrill. Now it’s your turn to have the time of your life at this smash-hit musical that combines ABBA’s greatest hits, including “Dancing Queen,” “S.O.S.,” “Super Trouper,” “Take A Chance on Me” and “The Winner The ‘legendary’ Bill Cosby Takes It All,” with HE 12 an enchanting tale of love, laughter and This musical begins where Jesus friendship.Whether it’s your first visit or Christ Superstar leaves off and never your fourteenth, see the show that has the let’s go! It’s a high powered rock and roll whole world coming back for more. March concert that takes one of the least known 31 – April 4 at the Adrienne Arsht Center aspects of one of the greatest historical for the Performing Arts. Tickets start at events: how twelve ordinary individuals, torn apart by the unthinkable death of their $25. www.arshtcenter.org.
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Dining Review
WHERE: Bogart’s Bar & Grille 3200 Airport Road Boca Raton
561.544.3044
By Joey Amato
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have finally found the perfect date spot. A place where you can enjoy both a wonderful dinner, and a movie, all for under $100. Bogart’s Bar & Grille is connected to the Cinemark Palace 20 theatre, one of the only multiplexes in the state to offer Premier Level seating. The oversized seats offer more legroom than typical theaters and food selections include more than just popcorn and pretzels. Guests who would like to enjoy a wonderful pre or post movie dinner should consider dining at Bogart’s. The restaurant, owned by famed restaurateur Burt Rappaport offers a wonderful selection of items to fit all budgets and palates. The menu features over a dozen starters to choose from including Potstickers, Black Angus sliders and Macaroni and Cheese. I let our chef choose his favorites for my guest and I to sample. Within a few minutes, our server was carrying a platter of food to our table. Apparently they are used to quick service because most people have a movie to catch. Presented to us was an assortment of Signature Starters including Crispy Calamari with a yuzu-soy glaze, Wasabi Seared Sashimi Tuna with sweet ginger and Thai chili sauces, Chicken Spring Rolls and my favorite of the four, Crispy Shredded Duck Tacos with a chili-lime bbq sauce and Asian slaw. The calamari was only lightly fried, which we both enjoyed. The accompanying soy
glaze added the much needed flare to a dish that is so commonly served with marinara sauce. The tuna was perfectly cooked and the wasabi crust on the edges didn’t take away from the taste of the fish. By far the best of the starters were the duck tacos. Each miniature taco packed so much flavor that I thought I was eating at a BBQ restaurant. Also worth noting is Bogart’s creative array of burgers. The Brie & Pear Burger is prepared with brie cheese, poached pears, pancetta and honey mustard. Another interesting choice is the Texas Burger, a 10 oz. sirloin burger topped with bbq beef brisket, cheddar cheese and crispy onions. On my next visit, I will be sure to try one of those. For our entrees, my guest ordered the Dijon Crusted Chicken Milano with spinach, sweet potato raviolis and maple-dijon cream sauce. Two large breasts of chicken were served on top a bed of delicious raviolis, which were the highlight of the dish. The chicken was juicy and lightly battered. I opted for the Teriyaki Glazed Grilled Flank Steak with ginger rice, stir fried Asian vegetables and crispy carrots. My entrée wasn’t as good as my guest. The steak was slightly tough for my liking. However, the ginger rice and vegetables were flavorful and light. A nice contrast to the heaviness of the steak. Another entrée item of interest was the Key Lime Grilled Mahi Mahi with pineapple-coconut rice, sautéed spinach, citrus-butter sauce and crispy plantains. Our hostess kindly recommended we try the Warm Apple Cobbler served with homemade maple-walnut ice cream and caramel sauce for dessert. Both the ice cream and the cobbler were delicious on their own, but doubly delectable when tasted together.
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March 29 , 2010 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com
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The hilarious, fast-talking Tupperware Lady extraordinaire, Dixie Longate throws a party you won't forget. Free giveaways, audience participation, real Tupperware for sale, and loads of laughs pack the off-Broadway sensation that's "not your grandmother's Tupperware Party.”
954.462.0222 • www.BrowardCenter.org All programs, artists, dates and times are subject to change. All special offers cannot be combined with other discounts or previous purchases. Certain restrictions apply.
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Blowing Kisses
March 29 , 2010 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com
the theatre dark for a few months, Dalton and Holmes decided to produce a show. Diana Son’s Stop Kiss was first produced in New York City in 1998 and won the GLAAD Media Award for Best New York Production and was on the Top 10 Plays lists of the New York Times, New York Newsday, and the New York Daily News. The play tells the story of two women: Callie, a New York City traffic reporter, and Sara, a schoolteacher By Mary Damiano “Even the local theatres transplanted from St. Louis, who experience Arts Editor an unexpected attraction to each other. As that do gay plays, put on they begin to fall in love, their relationship new production company is shows which are mainly is impacted by a sudden act of homophobic reviving a lesbian-themed play for the guys,” says Holmes. violence. The story is told through 23 nonthat enjoyed great success when linear scenes in only 90 minutes. it was produced in South Florida in 2004. The decision to produce Stop Kiss was Erynn Dalton and Jeff Holmes, the found- at Sol. They were fixtures on the Sol stage twofold. and behind the scenes, and they’ve been ing members of Infinite Abyss Productions, “By launching our theatre company with writing partners for several years, workwill begin previews of their first theatrical Stop Kiss, we are paying homage to our roots ing together on plays and screenplays. Sol production, Stop Kiss, on April 1 at Empire and Sol’s loyal audience,” says Holmes. founders Robert Hooker and Tony Priddy Stage in Fort Lauderdale. They also wanted to produce a play speDalton and Holmes were long-time troupe sold the theatre last year and relocated to cifically for lesbian audiences, a group they the west coast of Florida. members of the now defunct Sol Theatre feel is underserved. “Even the local theatres “They left and we’re still here,” says Project, which produced shows for nearly a that do gay plays, put on shows which are Dalton, looking around the intimate decade in the theatre space now known as mainly for the guys,” says Holmes. performance space that once housed Sol’s Empire Stage. Sol had a wildly successful run Dalton recalls audience feedback when provocative brand of theatre. of Stop Kiss in 2004. Holmes, who played a Holmes now works as a stage manager at she was part of the cast of Sol’s lesbiancop in Sol’s original production, will direct the Empire Stage, whose debut production in the themed Why We Have a Body. “After the new production Stop Kiss. show women would come up to me and theatre was the recent Making Porn. With Dalton and Holmes met eight years ago
Two Former Sol Theatre Members Are Reviving Lesbian-Themed Stop Kiss
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Theatre Preview
LAY: Stop Kiss P HERE: Empire Stage W 1140 N. Flagler Dr, Fort Lauderdale WHEN: Stop Kiss has two preview performances on April 1 and 2, and officially opens April 3. It runs through April 25 at Empire Stage. Tickets are $30 and can be purchased online at www.empirestage.com or at the door.
say ‘When are you going to bring back Stop Kiss?’ So now we’re bringing it back.” Stop Kiss features Monica Garcia, Danielle Tabino and Sol Theatre member, Todd Bruno. It’s being underwritten in part by New Moon, a gay and lesbian bar in Wilton Manors. Unfortunately, the homophobia that existed when Stop Kiss was first produced 12 years is still common, making the play just as relevant. Holmes believes Stop Kiss is relatable on many different levels, because love and violence touches everyone’s lives. Dalton sees Stop Kiss as a play of selfdiscovery between two women. “It’s nice to do a show that reflects the violence but at the same time rises above it,” Dalton says. “There is an incident, but it’s really more about them falling in love.”
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March 29 , 2010 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com
Theatre Review
Paging Dr. Radio
LAY: Dr. Radio P HERE: Florida Stage W 262 S. Ocean Blvd., Manalapan
World Premiere Musical Could Use Surgery
WHEN: Through May 2 photos by Bruce Bennett
Call 561-585-3433 or visit FloridaStage.org.
By Mary Damiano Arts Editor
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new world premiere musical is now at Florida Stage, a show that pays homage to the golden age
of radio. Part wacky radio play, part poignant memory piece, Dr. Radio takes its audience inside the mind and radio of Benji Weitz (Wayne LeGette) owner of the Dr. Radio Repair Shop. The bulk of the play is set in 1949, just before radio began to be usurped by television as America’s dominant form of home entertainment. Benji’s favorite story from his past comes to life on stage, structured like one of his beloved radio plays and embellished to cartoonish proportions. The core of the story involves Benji’s unlikely romance with forward-thinking Kate (Margot Moreland) but also includes a Hungarian fortune teller (Elizabeth Dimon) and greedy bank president (Irene Adjan) and her Latin lover dance instructor (Nick Duckart). Dr. Radio boasts a stellar South Florida cast of four Carbonell Award-winning performers and one up and comer. Dimon plays the fortune teller to the hilt, while Adjan is the picture of hardhearted greed—she should really play the villain more often. Adjan also gets to wear all the best costumes, whimsically garish ensembles of pink, green and leopard by Mark Pirolo. Duckart, who has made a name for himself on South Florida stages mostly in serious dramas, is a revelation as Rudolpho, the amore-crazed, hip-swiveling dance teacher more than happy to be Adjan’s Latin lap dog. Duckart steals nearly every scene he’s in. LeGette and Moreland do a terrific job of playing it straight amid the wackiness that surrounds them. They both possess won-
Nicholas Mitchell Duckart and Elizabeth Dimon
The problems lie with Castellino’s book and Christopher McGovern’s score. The story and structure is overly cluttered and could use some streamlining and clarity. McGovern’s music is bouncy and light, and while the score includes some gorgeous harmonies, some of his lyrics are clunky and cumbersome. The exception is LeGette and Moreland’s lovely duet, “There’s Nothing Wrong with Things the Way Things Are,” a romantic winner. Dr. Radio is a world premiere, and according to comments in the opening night curtain speech, did not go through the typical process of readings and workshops before its debut. That process might have helped this musical fulfill its potential.There’s a lot of good stuff here, it’s just not quite there yet.
Wayne Legette
derful voices and deliver nuanced, realistic performances. The ensemble does wonders with what they have to work with, because Dr. Radio needs work. It’s a handsome production, with Tim Mackabee’s inventive and detailed set, and Bill Castellino’s staging, which includes quite a work-out for the theatre’s turntable stage.
Irene Adjan and Nicholas Mitchell Duckart
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March 29 , 2010 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com
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March 29 , 2010 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com
also welcomed Sophie B. Hawkins and Amy Ray of The Indigo Girls to the Lounge,” recalls Denise. Despite a growing fan base, Donna tells SFGN that getting people interested in the show has been the greatest challenge. “Some people are hesitant about technology, but, in the age of podcasting, a lot of people are starting to take their info with them on the road.” So, fortunately, if listeners can’t be online on Wednesday nights, they can download
the show to their iPod and listen whenever they please. This year has already proved to be pivotal for Denise and Donna, but the ladies have an active schedule ahead. Denise refers to her calendar. “We have been invited back to Spacecoast Pride in May for our 3rd year, and will we be in Orlando for Gay Days with Girls in Wonderland.” Furthermore, the girls are one of the hosts of WomenFest this September in Key West. In addition to those events, “You’ll see more of us at local events right here in our own backyard.” When they are off the air, Denise spends most of her free time writing comedy. She’s written the first lesbian comedy “audio” soap opera which premiered on The Lesbian Lounge. Denise also enjoys writing and performing stand-up comedy. Donna is more about music. She loves discovering up-and-coming indie artists, and introducing them to her listening audience. In addition, Donna is a committee member for Lavender Events for Women and is a teacher for children with special needs. Together, the ladies contribute a column to She Magazine.
the perfumes and spices of ancient bazaars. Santana was influenced not only by theories about Jesus and Judas but by theories about Isis and her son Horus. Indeed, many art historians cite images of Mary enthroned with the Christ child on her lap as being borrowed from the Egyptian goddess. We see in Marien an abused woman, yet one that puts herself into these positions, implying the masochism is something she wants. “I think she is strong,” says Santana, because you could read her character as being weak, manipulated by her seminarian then priest in Spain. “Whatever she allowed herself to do sexually it brought her great pleasure.” Santana started out as a marketing student. Writing came about purely by accident when he took a bilingual writing class in college at El Paso. The first short story he wrote as an assignment he handed in to his professor not realizing he was the editor of the University of Juarez literary journal. The assignment was published and Santana
switched from marketing to literature, in which he would ultimately receive his PhD. He wrote “The Marien Revelation” simultaneously in both Spanish and in English. While this may seem an arduous task Santana finds it to be a stimulating process. “The story is the same, but the images are different,” he added. The book—when still in manuscript form —already garnered the attention of literary critics and alternate theorists of the Jesus story. Kevin Cassell in his blog Transgender Jesus does not mean by this title that Jesus was a crossdresser, or transvestite. He means to say that Jesus frequently disengaged from normal, masculine roles during his lifetime. Sir Elton John also recently told Parade that he thinks “Jesus was a compassionate, super-intelligent gay man who understood human problems.” The debate continues and the book, so Santana hopes, will challenge the Christological norms we have all been raised with or are at least familiar. The book will launch April 1st at The Studio@620 in Saint Petersburg. On April 11 there will be a presentation and discussion of the book at Books & Books in Coral Gables. The book hits stores on April 2.
The Lesbian Lounge with Denise & Donna Bringing Girl Power to the Web By Joey Amato
D
enise Warner and Donna Woesnner are everywhere these days. When they are not on the radio hosting The Lesbian Lounge, these two fascinating women are attending numerous events, volunteering at local organizations and performing stand-up comedy. Their weekly talk show on MyLesbianRadio.com airs live every Wednesday evening at 9pm. It is also re-broadcast on Sunday afternoons at 12pm and available for download on iTiunes every Monday, free of charge. The show is a product of hard work and girl power. “Donna and I met at a local lesbian event called Sister Speak back in 2002 and clicked immediately. We’ve been friends ever since. Unlike most lesbian friendships, we’ve never slept together or dated one another’s exes,” stated Denise. Denise started in radio back when Party 93.1
had an early morning gay show called Issues over the Rainbow. The show focused mostly on male issues, but contained a brief segment called Chick Chat. After the radio station’s format changed, Denise discovered internet radio and worked on a straight, male oriented, foul-mouthed show before teaming with Donna and creating The Lesbian Lounge. Although their home base is South Florida, Denise & Donna have gained a sizable following throughout the state. Donna states, “We worked backwards when the show started taking off. We were doing events in Orlando, the Keys, Tampa/St. Pete for the first year or so.” The duo is now trying to focus locally. The Lesbian Lounge has hosted a variety of guests from film producers Lisa Thrasher and Stacy Codikow of POWER UP Films, to comedians, like Suzanne Westenhoefer, Dana Goldberg, and Sandra Valls. “We have
colony in Mexico where she was raised for a life of research in Spain. That the man who urinates in her mouth, and strangles The Marien Revelation her during sex is a Roman Catholic priest Alligator Press. Pages 208. Price is $15.95 is in itself a paradox and form of masochFor more information please visit ism. Miguelsantana.com She is a character for whom Santana has much affinity. “As a gay writer it is easy By A. Sebastian Fortino to relate to a female subject,” iami-based writer Miguel Santa- he said. Santana says there na asks in The Marien Revelation, is a lot of him in Marien and vice-versa. He recalled being “What if Jesus had been gay?” attracted to the local deacons Nineteenth-century German philosoof the Mormon Church as a phers theorized Jesus might have been a young Roman Catholic boy. schizophrenic. Dan Brown’s Da Vinci Code While the book is very suggests Christ had a wife and child. In Santana’s book the “one that Jesus loved,” Judas, much set in the present day— is cast as Christ’s lover. Even the bible has a highlighting church scandals, strange verse or two about Christ spending closeted politicians, and abortion—it also flashes back to Judea during time with a naked young man. the reign of Herod, where we meet Mary, the Santana—born in Juarez, Mexico and mother of Christ. raised in El Paso, TX—sat down to speak Santana is able to capture the taste of figs, with me about this, his second book. It follows the story of Marien as she turns 40 and the bustle of ancient Alexandria, and desert journeys not only through his lyrical writing deals with a complex pregnancy. but through ancient texts.We are treated to Marien is in an abusive, masochistic relationship that seems unlikely for a prim, passages from the Egyptian Book of the Dead, and other sources that flavor the pages like theological student who left the Mormon
Book Review
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Denise Warner and Donna Woesnner
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March 29 , 2010 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com
Photo by Pompano Bill
FACE THE S IN NEW S
Smiles of Saturday night’s ‘Bravissimo!’ event at the Sunshine Cathedral which benefited the Sunshine Community Foundation.
MORE AIDS WALK PHOTOS (continued from page 48) This time by photographer J.R. Davis and John Fugate.
SFGN salesmen John Fugate and Brian Swinford
Sunshine Community Foundation Founding President Robert Graham’s 90th Birthday was celebrated by his friends. Photo by Steven Shires
Darren Watson and writer A. Sebastian Fortino at the Champagne Reception. Concert photo on page 48.
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March 29 , 2010 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com
DVD Reviews
technique using synthetic sperm created from stem cells. While this might be a lesbian “The Baby Formula” couple’s fantasy, the humor from writer Rich“Boycrazy” ard Beattie goes downhill from there. Recommended Retail Price: $24.95 each One of the researchers explains to the www.WolfeVideo.com documentary producer (director Alison Reid), “We’re not making men obsolete, just unnecessary….. one day we’ll make women unnecessary, too.” Which elicits the following question and answer: “How do you get sperms from stem cells?” “It’s like growing By J.W. Arnold mushrooms…..” Angela Vint (Athena) s the spring gay and lesbian film and Megan Fahlenblock festival season approaches, two new DVDs released recently by (Lilith) deliver strong performances, but like Wolfe Film demonstrate how the LGBT a Guest film, it’s the film industry has matured over the past madcap assortment of two decades. supporting characters that make this film such a hoot. Laugh along “The Baby Formula” with spot-on performances by Jessica Booker Leave it to those crazy Canucks to take (Grandma Kate, who just doesn’t get what’s polarizing social issues like LGBT parentgoing on around her) and Matt Baram (lab ing and turn them into a mockumentary technician Jim). worthy of Christopher Guest. While the film may hold special appeal to Athena and Lilith (are those perfect names those lesbian couples looking for a solution for a liberated Lesbian couple, or what?) decide to make a baby. But instead of resort- to the sperm problem, “The Baby Formula” is certain to appeal to a much wider audiing to turkey basters, they become the test ence, gay and straight alike. couple for a groundbreaking new scientific
DVD Releases Put New Faces on LGBT Love, Lives
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Golden Girls Gone Wild!
You’ve Never Seen Them Like This By J.W. Arnold
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t’s no accident the Golden Girls have become icons,” argues Lenora Claire, curator of a new pop art exhibit celebrating the television show at the World Erotic Art Museum (WEAM) in Miami Beach. “One of the reasons this show resonated with audiences is because everyone has a slutty friend, a stupid friend and a crazy mother,” she explains. “But, more importantly, the show was progressive for its time, taking on issues of the day (i.e. homosexuality, AIDS, disabilities) head on. And the amazing thing is, when you watch the episodes, they don’t seem dated at all….well, except for the clothes.”
But, if the public has enduring images of Dorothy, Blanche, Rose and Sophia in their minds, they have never seen the Golden Girls through the eyes of the 20 artists whose works Claire assembled for this show. The Los Angeles-based artist and writer sought out artists who challenged the wholesome stereotypes of the show’s characters. “It all started years ago when I found a really racy oil portrait of Bea Arthur,” she recalls. But after hanging the painting over her bed, she discovered that her male
Golden Girls Gone Wild World Erotic Art Museum 1205 Washington Ave., Miami Beach Monday-Thursday, 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.; Friday and Saturday, 11 a.m. to 12 midnight. Tickets $15. No one under 18 admitted. For information, call (305) 5329336 or go to www.WEAM.com
“Boy Crazy”
Israel decides it’s time to do some catching For years, many of the short films to make up, with some unexpected results. Monge delivers a breakthrough perforthe circuit were the products of film school mance (if you can get past his hair) and students and, inevitably, the young gay and Krinsky’s film finally lays rest to the stereolesbian filmmakers, chose the seminal motypical coming out films that have become ment in their lives to serve as their subject, so boring and presents street-smart, sexucoming out. We’ve seen these stories so ally liberated gay teens. many times, they’ve “Fairies” is the 2001 short that got a become cliché: the awkward young gay boy major rework to become “Were the World with a starry-eyed crush Mine,” a hit on last year’s festival circuit. on the football jock who A modern day, “A Midsummer’s Night’s seems unattainable until Dream,” “Fairies” tells the story of Timothy (James McKay), a gay teen who is taunted at that magical moment his all-boys high school until a quirky literawhen they share a kiss ture teacher (Wendy Robie) inspires him to and fall deeply in love. Call me jaded, but gay imagine a magical, musical world in which he filmmakers have indeed fits in and love conquers all—especially his come a long way, as evi- homophobic classmates and coach. “Fairies” is rough, but fresh, although the denced by several films subsequent feature-length version benefits in Wolfe’s latest colfrom a recast (Robie stays on and gets quirkier) lection of shorts, “Boy and more time to develop Timothy’s fantasy. Crazy.” Two films that The DVD is rounded out with five other stand out in particular are Brian Krinsky’s shorts, including “Frequent Traveller,” the “Dish” and Tom Gustafson’s “Fairies.” story of an airline passenger’s crush on an Kids are coming out sooner and “Dish” airport security guard and the lengths he’ll introduces one of these teenagers, Israel go to get his man; “Teddy,” a sweet story (Mathew Monge), who seems comfortable about two former lovers and the bear one in his own skin, even if he is sexually inexperienced. He spends his days—like straight has recently entered into a relationship; and title film, “Boycrazy,” a musical comedy teenagers—constantly texting his friends about two exes who are pursuing the same and “dishing” on his classmates. When his friend boasts of his latest sexual encounter, guy in a musical chatroom.
partners were so “freaked out” they wouldn’t have sex. “Old people get it on, too,” she laughs. The unexpected reactions led Claire to seek out artists for her first show of Golden Girls art in 2007.The exhibition ended up being covered by TMZ, a Hollywood celebrity gossip Web site and television show, and soon her phone was ringing off the hook with requests for interviews from media outlets ranging from National Public Radio to the National Enquirer.The exhibit was called everything from “scandalous” to “mentally unbalanced,” but Claire ended up selling all but two works on opening night. For her WEAM show, Claire again assembled
a wide variety of interpretations of the famous foursome.The collection includes paintings, puppets and even a Tiffany-style stained glass lamp adorned with four flowers that “interpret” the vaginas of each of the characters. The deaths of Estelle Getty (Sophia) and Arthur (Dorothy), have also contributed to the recent nostalgia about the show. Claire points out similar artworks of any of the items that might sell can be commissioned from the participating artists. She notes a particularly striking painting of Arthur on black velvet and suggests an entire set could be commissioned by adoring fans. The Golden Girls are destined to live on the hearts of fans, but if Claire has her way, they can also occupy an honored place in fans’ homes.
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March 29 , 2010 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com
Heard it on...
By the Nite Owl Gay Sex Partner for Murder Plot Leads to Jail Talk about being displeased with your local psychic! TanPhillipe Zamora ya Nelson of Santa Ana, CA, was displeased with predictions delivered by Ha “Jade” Smith, a Vietnamese fortune-teller, who told Nelson that her lover, who had left her, would not return. Nelson went out, tracked Smith down, and killed him and his daughter. It happened five years ago, but she was convicted along with her accomplice, just last week. Now here’s the thing. Her accomplice was an older man, Phillipe Zamora, a bit lonely and in need of companionship. When asked why he chose to participate in the murder plot, Zamora told the
‘Straight’ winner Liza Minelli
police he was promised “repeated gay sex partners” by Nelson. Oh, the things we do for love. Zamora will have to settle for finding love for the next 25 years in the California State prison system. As for Ms. Nelson, the woman of many promises, the jury recommended death for her. /ASF
‘Straight for Equality’ Award to Liza Citing her outstanding contributions as an artist to advancing equality for all, PFLAG National announced that Academy Award-winning actress and iconic straight ally Liza Minnelli will be honored with the 2010 Straight for Equality in Entertainment award for her lifelong support of
LGBT people. The award will be presented at PFLAG’s second annual Straight for Equality Awards Gala on May 1 at the New York Marriott Marquis. Unknown if her former gay husbands will attend. “Liza Minnelli is the quintessential straight ally – she has been an outspoken supporter of equality for LGBT for her whole life, and her tremendous and ongoing philanthropy in the fight against AIDS has made her a very public advocate of the many individuals and their families who have been affected by the disease,” said Jody M. Huckaby, PFLAG National’s executive director. “As someone who has been supported and touched by the LGBT community for my entire life, I can’t imagine being anything but an out and proud straight ally who doesn’t fear speaking up to anyone,”
said Minnelli. The first award was presented in 2009 to actress Sigourney Weaver. Learn more about the 2010 Straight for Equality Awards Gala by visiting www.straightforequality.org.
KC & the Sunshine Band co-founder Finch accused in Ohio of having sex with teenage boys Associated Press
A music producer and co-founder of KC and the Sunshine Band responsible for such hits as “Shake Your Booty” and “Keep It Comin’ Love” has acknowledged having sex with teenage boys, police said Wednesday. Richard R. Finch, 56, was arrested Tuesday after a boy told authorities he’d had sexual contact with him at Finch’s home in Newark, the Licking County sheriff’s office said. The boy made the revelation last week. Finch, while being interviewed at the sheriff’s office, admitted he’d had sex with that boy and others ranging in age from 13 to 17, police said. Finch, a former bass player for the band and a seven-time Grammy Award KC and his Sunshine Band still ‘getting down’ winner, was being held today without Finch at the sheriff’s office on $250,000 bond. A message posted on the Web site of Richard Finch Productions Inc. said the allegations against the producer and song arranger were baseless. “We will let due process happen through the legal system,” it said, “and through that, we are sure Mr. Finch will be vindicated from these unfounded allegations.” No date had been set for Finch’s arraignment, said Sgt. Kevin Biller, who wouldn’t disclose the evidence that led to Finch’s arrest or the possible charges against him. Finch started KC and the Sunshine Band in the 1970s with Harry “KC” Casey, who was a record company stockroom clerk when they met. Their collaboration produced a slew of disco and funk hits including “Get Down Tonight,” “‘That’s the Way (I Like It)” and “I’m Your Boogie Man.”
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March 29 , 2010 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com
Weekend Getaways
Costa d’Este South Beach Flare Comes to Vero
By Joey Amato
I
n the first installment of Weekend Getaways, I chose an oceanfront resort within short driving distance of Fort Lauderdale that is owned by Gloria and Emilio Estefan. Its name is Costa d’Este, which loosely translated means “the only gay-friendly destination in Vero Beach”. The resort was opened by the Estefan’s in June 2008 and has become a pearl of the Treasure Coast. Costa d’Este provides an exclusive oceanfront oasis with 94 luxury guest rooms, a signature restaurant and bar, infinity-edge pool, full-service spa and fitness center. Costa d’Este exudes a comfortable elegance and urban sophistication. Sleek yet
cozy, the hotel’s design balances substance and style, without being indulgent. An oval reception desk composed of honey-toned teak and backlit onyx welcomes visitors as they enter the lobby. Modern accents adorn the walls, which becomes illuminated by candles in the evening. A far cry from any other resort in town. Our guestroom was as elegant as the lobby. As we entered, we caught a glimpse of the marvelous marble bathroom and oversized shower. Not to mention the stunning view of the Atlantic. Custom furnishings and backlit teak headboards created multiple accent points. Amenities included flat-screen television, i-Pod docking station and Egyptian-cotton linens. The bi-level Spa at Costa d’Este is
embellished with sea-grass and Mother of Pearl mosaic tile wall coverings, limestone surfaces, and marble—walnut furnishings. There are four treatment rooms, where guests can enjoy a variety of treatments and holistic products. As my boyfriend and I entered the treatment room for our couples massage, we were greeted by the soothing sounds of rippling water. In celebration of the Estefans’ heritage, the resort’s intimate 85-seat restaurant signature restaurant Oriente, features gourmet fare inspired by Cuba’s Oriente region. Oriente’s wine cellar is stocked with South American, Spanish and Californian selections, as well as French, South African and Australian vintages. For our starters, or what they call “little
plates”, we chose the Cuban Roll, which is a chilled sushi-like roll consisting of Beef Ropa Vieja, Coconut Rice, Plantain, Avocado, Piquillo Pepper Soy Chimichurri. The roll was very unique in presentation and although I was expecting a warm dish, was pleased with the taste. In addition, we enjoyed a portion of Sizzling Chori Gambas, seared shrimp and chorizo sausage with homemade sofrito. This dish had more of the flavors I am accustom to in traditional Cuban-style cuisine. Oriente offers a nice selection of entrees ranging from Arroz con Pollo to LeQuebecois Veal Chop Milanese. We opted for the Lamb Chop special and Oriente Paella. The lamb was definitely the better of the two dishes. The seasoning on the lamb, as well as its temperature was perfect. On the contrary, we found the paella under seasoned and the calamari tough. Guests at a neighboring table enjoyed the Ropa Vieja and recommended we try it on our next visit. The bar at Oriente features a customized cocktail menu with Cuban, Spanish and Caribbean favorites, plus sought-after micro brews and homemade sangria. Cuban coffee drinks are also served throughout the day and the hotel offers a complimentary daily mojito happy hour. For a memorable, yet relaxing weekend getaway, I highly recommend a visit to Costa d’Este.
Costa d’Este 3244 Ocean Drive Vero Beach, Florida 32963 772-562-9919 www.costadeste.com
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March 29 , 2010 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com Learn more about Ray and hear his music at sonicbids.com/rayboltz Information about Soulforce: soulforce.org
Ray Boltz True at Last
See Brian Schwarz’s review of Ray Boltz’s new album, True, in next week’s issue of SFGN.
By Tony Adams
A
s I was welcomed by Christian music star Ray Boltz into the Fort Lauderdale home he shares with his partner Franco, I was delighted to see that Ray has lost the mullet he wore in the Youtube videos of his older performances. Ray’s hairstyle is the smallest of the changes he has survived. Curious about his new, ready-forrelease album True, I sat down with a humble artist who has been tried by the fires of religion, music, love, family, Jesus and truth. Having raised four children with his wife Carol, and having sold 4.5 million Christian music records, Ray Boltz came out of the closet to his family at home In Indiana on December 26, 2004 as a tsunami struck the coast of Thailand. The comparison Ray
draws between those concurrent events is clear to anyone who has gone through the trauma of coming out to immediate family, but the results were opposites. That tsumani killed thousands, but Ray’s revelation? “We were all at home for Christmas, my wife, my four grown children. My son says ‘What’s going on with you, Dad? You just don’t seem to be yourself.’ And I said ‘Well if you really want to know, I’ll tell you. You all don’t know who I really am. I’m gay.’ “Their reaction was incredible. They affirmed me and told me they loved me. I am still very close to my wife Carol even though, in the counseling we received after I came out, we decided to lead separate lives. Carol’s greatest fear was that we wouldn’t have a family any more. But our family didn’t die. We are very close. Carol is wonderful. She is
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now on the board of Soulforce, working to end religious oppression of LGBTQ people. “It was not easy coming out, but it was good. I had grown up in the Bible Belt, and when I was 19, I went to a Christian music concert that changed my life, and yes, I had some gay sexual experience as a teenager and I thought it was sinful but…for the next 30 years I had this great family and career and after 30 years I said to myself ‘This just isn’t working.’ I had been in counseling and on anti-depressants and then I finally came out to them. I did not come out publically at the same time. That happened later. I knew this would be a problem and I didn’t want to come out of the closet and at the same time put my wife and kids into a closet, so they knew that they could talk about it with friends and family, and many people knew I was gay and then two years ago, I made it public. “I was very well known in the Christian music world when I came out. I had some people tell me to buy a gun and shoot myself. Other people demanded that I return the music awards I had received. Some people mailed my CDs back to me. They never bothered to understand that I wasn’t going out and picking up hustlers during all those years. Some people hunted me down here and knocked on the door to give me a piece of their mind. “I moved here to become unknown but
affirmed. I remember the first time I went to Bill’s Filling Station – the old one - I was amazed at the open affection of the men.” Does Ray Boltz still believe in God? “I don’t believe in a judgmental God, one with a flyswatter. And I can just hear the religious right scream as I say that, but I look at Jesus. He was so unconventional. He hung out with prostitutes. He didn’t seem to enjoy religious people. I believe I am accepted by a caring God who doesn’t love just my soul. He loves the whole me. Of course, I could show you twenty thousand emails I’ve received that say I am going to hell….” Ray’s new album, True, is about to be released. “My music is still very spiritual but not religious. My old stuff always had one foot in the church world. I’ve got a great producer, Joe Hogue, who also produced Ari Gold. I hope you will like the song Don’t Tell Me Who To Love. It’s about marriage equality. It’s being remixed as a dance track and I think it’s really cool to be branching out of ‘just religion’. “There’s another track on the album about Wilton Manors. It’s called American Queen….and there’s another song, Who Would Jesus Love? This song came in second in a Billboard Magazine contest in the Christian Music category. That was really crazy because there are many Christian radio stations that won’t even play my stuff, so it’s weird to get an award for it. I can still be recognized but I am still being judged. “I was unaware of the gay Christian community until I moved to Fort Lauderdale. When I perform for a gay Christian audience, I am very aware of how much these people have been hurt by religion. “There’s a song on True called God Knows I Tried. Some religious people say to me ‘You didn’t try hard enough’ or ‘You should have let Jesus try for you’. I spent all those years with a secret in my heart, thinking that if anyone knew it they’d be disgusted. Now I know that Jesus does not hate me.” With the true Ray Boltz, what’s not to love? And when all you Wilton Manors guys hear the song American Queen, I’ll bet you think this song is about you.
March 29 , 2010 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com
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March 29 , 2010 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com
Dan Pye on Retirement
Feldblum Acquires EEOC Seat continued from page 12
rules require that a senator must identify themselves within a few days, senators have been able to get around that rule by taking turns putting the hold in place. Feldblum is probably best known for her work on the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), which passed in 1990, prohibiting discrimination in employment, public accommodations, and other areas against people with disabilities. The law also covered people with HIV infection. She was also involved in last year’s bill that made amendments to the original law. But Feldblum is best known to the LGBT community as a key counsel on the drafting and negotiations over the Employment Non-Discrimination Act (ENDA). She also served for a time as legislative counsel for the American Civil Liberties Union in Washington, D.C. Feldblum served for a year as a law clerk to U.S. Supreme Court Justice
Harry Blackmun. She is currently a professor of law at Georgetown University and serves as co-director of the university’s Federal Legislation and Administrative Clinic. During her confirmation hearing, Feldblum made prominent mention of her affiliation with another Catholic institution, Catholic Charities USA. The Georgetown University Law School’s Federal Legislation Clinic, which Feldblum founded in 1993, worked for many years representing Catholic Charities. Feldblum assured the Committee that she is aware of and comfortable with the religious exemptions in Title VII of the Civil Rights Act and in ENDA. “I strongly support that exemption,” said Feldblum, “…and I would not have a problem at all enforcing that exemption.” Should ENDA pass, a position on the EEOC puts Feldblum in position to be one of five commissioners to develop regulations for its implementation.
OP Doctor Arrested On Meth Charges
Dr. John R. Habib
A
gay anesthesiologist working at Holy Cross Hospital was arrested last week on charges he purchased crystal meth from undercover investigators and had the amphetamine and the club drug GHB at his home, officials said. Dr. John R. Habib, 54, of Oakland Park, was charged with trafficking in methamphetamine, possession of methamphet-
amine and possession of GHB. The charges carry with them mandatory sentences of state prison time, if convicted. An undercover officer and confidential informant purportedly met the doctor at his house, where they allege they sold him 35 grams of crystal meth- for $1,800. Fort Lauderdale police also reported that a team of investigators searched his home and found more drugs inside. Habib has been a doctor in Florida since 2000 and has no disciplinary actions against him, state licensing records show. However, he did have a prior drug arrest in 2003. He got his medical degree from the University of Massachusetts in 1987 and did his residency in the Boston area. He has retained Keith Pierro with the Miami law offices of Joel Hirschorn to handle his defense. Dr. Habib does not work directly for Holy Cross. He works for Florida Atlantic Anesthesia, a Fort Lauderdale medical group hired to supply anesthesiologists for surgeries and other procedures at the hospital, Holy Cross officials said.
Saving for Gray and Gay Days
R
etirement…It’s NOT what you save, It’s what you keep. We’ve all heard it—“a penny saved is a penny earned.” Alan Greenspan said: “Anything that we can do to raise personal savings is very much in the interest of this country” According to the Federal Reserve Bank of St. Louis—using Data from the U.S. Department of Commerce: Bureau of Economic Analysis—in the mid 2000’s the personal savings rate dropped into negative territory for the first time since records started being kept in the mid 1950’s. The average American was spending more than they were earning at a rate of -2.5%. As we have seen throughout history, recessions bring change. The savings rate today, according to the same study, is now over 5%. So the question is, are YOU saving properly? What is the correct method of saving? Should you contribute to your 401k or IRA? It may be that you have an outdated retirement plan that is costing you money to maintain. Did you know that even if you are a W-2 employee, saving into a 401-k, if you have a side business you may be able to put away additional savings into another type of plan? You may have heard that starting in 2010; the IRS has lifted the $100,000-income gap that allows individuals to convert regular IRAs to Roth IRAs. What you may not be aware of is that you can spread the tax liability over two years. On the surface, this sounds like a great idea and op-
portunity. However, it does not make sense for everyone. You need to have an analysis done. Look at the numbers and work with your advisor and determine if this makes sense for you. A good retirement specialist should have the resources to work with you to analyze your various retirement plans and help you determine what the appropriate level of contributions are. They should also be able to work with you to try to implement strategies to minimize your tax liability. He or She should also run an analysis to determine the best way to take advantage of your retirement savings, and whether the Roth conversion makes sense for you. While doing this, your beneficiary designations should also be looked at, so that you and or your partner are fully protected and that the designations make the most sense for your legacy. Optimizing your savings and determining the best way to take advantage of your retirement fund is critical to helping you and your partner plan to live a long retirement that allows you to meet all of your goals. Your advisor and his team has to understand your personal situation. Have focus, develop the plan, implement it, and then monitor it regularly. Your plan is a living document, like a garden, it needs to be watered and cared for as things in your life and the world change. Dan Pye is a Vice President of Finance at Morgan Stanley.
Retirement in South Florida: reaping the rewards of a good savings plan
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March 29 , 2010 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com
Pride Announcement
Pride University Opens P
ride University at Equality Park began in the fall of 2009 with the goal of becoming a fully functioning adult education program. This program not only provides courses for life-long learners in a gay environment, but brings community members into the GLCC/Pride Center that are looking for more than program services. Pride U recognizes the importance of communication, and is committed to an environment which stresses open sharing of information and ideas, and values input from all people. With attention to the student as an individual, Pride U aims to provide all students with a supportive learning environment and offers opportunities for identifying personal needs, setting goals, and developing recreational and aesthetic interests and skills for daily living and leadership. The next quarter begins the week of April 5th. The course offerings include Beginning Ballroom Dance, Beginning Conversational Spanish, Beginning Mah Jong, Beginning Creative Watercolor and 12 Steps to Personal Success. According to Paul Hyman, Executive Director of the GLCC/Pride Center, “Pride University is an important step in the development of the Center. We strive to offer more things to more people in the community at large. We will create learning and teaching opportunities where we can all connect.” Please visit Glccsf.org or contact Linda Jain at 954-463-9005 for more information.
Express Gay News Back Online The South Florida Gay News.com announces that the Express Gay News, from Issue 1 on January 25, 2000, through Norm Kent’s sale of the paper, on February 16, 2004, is now online and accessible for your review. During the six years that Unite Media owned the rights to the website of the original Express, they regretfully chose to remove online access to the Internet for www.expressgaynews.com. After the bankruptcy of Unite Media last fall, Kent acquired the rights to the URL
and website back, in conjunction with a deal partnered with Peter Clark of Hotspots. The archives of the Express and South Florida Blade are now on hand at the Stonewall Library. The first four years of The Express are now visible for your review, with the entire search engine intact, at www.OriginalExpressGayNews.com. Go to the web tools link and drag down to the back issues to catch up on Florida’s LGBT heritage.
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March 29 , 2010 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com
Gay Wired
You Wanna’ Know What’s Wrong with You? No Really… By A. Sebastian Fortino
T
here is now a website that lets you learn what your friends really think of you. And, conversely, where you can tell your friend that last outfit sure was hip—tragically so! Failin.gs was developed by Danny Peck and Stephen Celis, two tech-savvy friends. Peck resides in Asheville, NC, and Celis in Chicago. The
EXCLUSIVE TO SFGN READERS Failin.gs is currently an invite only site. However, knowing how much our community loves to “critique” each other Peck kindly provided several hundred slots for our SFGN readers. Simply sign onto Failin. gs and enter promotional code SFGN2010, and soon, like it or not, you’ll learn what your friends have been dying to tell you.
Crossword Puzzle
Oscar Night Revelation Across
1 Streisand, for short 5 Price tag 9 R.E.M. frontman Michael 14 Queens stadium name 15 Island of Barrie’s land 16 Animal handler 17 Stadium level 18 Threaded fastener 19 Writer Saikaku 20 The Blind Side star 23 Bombay title 24 Heady stuff 25 Award won by 20-Across 31 Curved shape 34 Coastal recess 35 Features of Disney’s Dumbo 36 Carrier to Tel Aviv 37 Poet Kitty 38 Emcee’s opening 39 Fish dish 40 Go bad 41 Prefix with gravure, in “Easter Parade” 42 Big fruit of New York? 43 “You betcha!” 44 Nominee for 25-Across 46 It connects Dick to Dyke
name of their corporation is Two Awesome Dudes. So far the public’s response for the private beta has been overwhelming. People find the concept to be mean-spirited or see potential for Failin.gs to become a valuable tool. “We launched it on Valentine’s Day,” said Danny Peck. They certainly chose an excellent day to learn about personal shortcomings, especially for the single. “Since then we’ve been refining and adding on requested features,” Peck added. Let’s face it, we’d all love to anonymously tell friends, exes, and former bosses a thing or two about their faults. But all caddy, mean-spiritedness aside Two Awesome Dudes developed this website for reasons less superficial than that. “The inspiration behind this is that websites like Twitter and Facebook are ego-stroking platforms. We thought why not build a site that completely flips the model on its
47 Greeting to Maria 48 Award given by 20-Across to 44-Across 55 She had her hand up Lamb Chop 56 Wilson of Zoolander 57 Trudge through sludge 59 Gandhi, e.g. 60 By ___ of (owing to) 61 Cry of Dorothy 62 Lover of Henry and June 63 They crawl all over your mound 64 Thailand, once Down
1 Club for swingers 2 Just like you see it 3 Carla portrayer on Cheers 4 Composer Leonard 5 Like some fruit’s acid 6 Wife of Charlie Chaplin 7 Give the cold shoulder 8 Russian singing duo 9 Mapplethorpe pics, e.g. 10 Resort lake 11 Colorful computer 12 Employment extra 13 Bill written by Alice Paul 21 “Nuts!” 22 Wonder Woman weapon
head,” said Peck. “A site where people could say what they don’t like about you, and maybe grow as a person.” Two Awesome Dudes believes the site has the potential to go beyond telling your bestfriend they really should work out a little more before donning that skimpy tank top. They really want this to be a site where people can learn things about themselves. Celis and Peck have already learned the website is proving invaluable to people in ways they never imagined. “We have an artist that posts her paintings and drawings,” Peck told SFGN. “She then gets anonymous critiques of her art. We also know of a massage therapist who values the feedback on her services.” You can also challnenge what your critics think of you. Feedback can be categorized by Failin.gs members into “I agree,” or “I disagree.” Beyond being a social network the site’s developers would like to see it used by corporations. This could be to critique products and services, or for peer reviews. The site seeks to expand its membership through Twitter and Facebook, by allowing members to pull up friends via email recognition.
25 Teenie-weenie 26 Come after 27 Sucking sound 28 Opera guy 29 Tattered and torn 30 Swashbuckling Flynn 31 Run off to get hitched 32 Rimbaud’s room 33 Shuteye 36 Contents of tiny cups 38 Castle with many steps 42 Many P-town beach vehicles 44 Eric of Ugly Betty 45 Peter and Mary 46 Elton John wrote a musical on his Aida 48 Watered down 49 Mandlikova of tennis 50 Ingredient in highballs 51 One of the Brewer models 52 He got into Superman’s pants 53 Pertaining to most students 54 Caesar’s city 55 Doo-wop syllable 58 Muscle Mary’s place Answers on page 24
Grindr comes to BlackBerry By Joey Amato
T
he popular all-male “networking” service Grindr is ready to begin beta testing a new application for BlackBerry users. On the heels of their one-year anniversary, the company plans to introduce the popular app to millions of potential users, who currently do not own an iPhone. Grindr has currently signed up over half a million iPhone and iPod touch users over the course of the past year and plans to increase subscribers tremendously after the BlackBerry app is available. Initially, only 5,000 downloads of the new Grindr BlackBerry app will be made available for beta testing to BlackBerry users. Just as with the Grindr iPhone app, Grindr for BlackBerry uses GPS and cellular technologies to deliver the profiles, photos, and information of users. To sign up to beta test Grindr BlackBerry, go to www.GrindrBerry.com.
“Anonymity,” said Peck, “is still a main concern. People will be able to follow the link in your profile—but you still won’t have any idea who is who!”
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March 29 , 2010 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com
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For Sale
Help Wanted JOHNNY’S FORT LAUDERDALE IS NOW SEEKING: in shape, attractive BARTENDERS with min. 2 years exp. in high energy club environment. We are also Looking for Shot Boys,Cocktail boys, Cashiers, Security (must have G License) for interview contact AJ Cross 754-3676366 or email montrealboyinfl@aol.com or JohnnysBarFL@aol.com ---------------------------------------------------MALE DANCERS NEEDED Dudes on the Beach is now hiring Dancers. No House Fees. 7 days a week. 3270 NE 33rd Street, 954 568-7777. Apply in person.
---------------------------------------------------HELP WANTED - CAGED HUNKS RAMROD HOT, MUSCULAR, CAGED HUNKS WANTED FOR SATURDAY NIGHTS AT THE RAMROD. CASH PAY + TIPS. CALL 954-802-5190 AFTER 11 AM OR SEE KEVIN M-TH HAPPY HOURS AT THE BAR ---------------------------------------------------SLAMMER IS LOOKING FOR A FEW GOOD MEN! bartenders, locker....must be flexible and dependable....apply in person Monday nights 8 pm, no phone calls! ---------------------------------------------------COURTYARD CAFE IS LOOKING FOR SHORT ORDER COOKS All shifts. Must be able to cook breakfast. 2211 Wilton Drive, Wilton Manors. Please apply in person. NO PHONE CALLS ---------------------------------------------------LOOKING FOR EXPERIENCED BARTENDERS AND DANCERS FOR BUSY NIGHTCLUB IN WILTON MANORS Apply in person, at GAYMART, must bring photo. 2240 Wilton Drive 954-630-0360 ---------------------------------------------------JOIN OUR FAMILY! SUNSERVE’S NOBLE A. McARTOR SENIOR DAY CENTER THE WORLD’S FIRST & ONLY LGBT SENIOR DAY CENTER, IS LOOKING FOR AN ENERGETIC CNA TO WORK WITH FRAIL SENIORS. FT WITH COMPETITIVE SALARY AND FULL BENEFITS. EXPERIENCE WITH ELDERS REQUIRED. SEND RESUME TO McARTOR CENTER, 1480 S. W. 9TH AVENUE, FORT LAUDERDALE, FL 33315, FAX 954-764-5155 OR EMAIL TO MADLER@SUNSERVE.ORG. ---------------------------------------------------CLUBHOUSE II PART-TIME CLEANER NEEDED. MUST BE ABLE TO WORK FLEXIBLE HOURS. DRUG FREE. APPLY IN PERSON ONLY! NO PHONE CALLS PLEASE! 2650 E. Oakland Park Blvd. Fort Lauderdale ---------------------------------------------------LIVE-IN PERSONAL ASSISTANT/ COMAPNION Elderly gentleman looking for a live-in personal assistant /companion with medical background. Great home in Boca Raton; Food and car furnished. Job duties consist of light meal preparation, medication responsibilities, light housework, running errands, keeping house fun, etc. Some extensive travel may be required. MUST HAVE experience, VALID driver’s license, EXCELLENT references and knowledge of computers. QUALIFIED APPLICANT’S ONLY: Email/ fax resume, picture and desired salary to ralbre8968@al.com or 561-620-8579.
---------------------------------------------------OLDER DADDIES/GRANDPA’S (50-75) WANTED FOR XXX MOVIES. Please be handsome, well built and clean. You don’t have to have a perfect body, just a nice looking one. Belly is okay, hairy is great! Also looking for younger men (1835) WHO LIKE OLDER MEN (50-75) for XXX movies. Please be handsome, well built and clean. Contact Pedri 786-389-3311 ---------------------------------------------------MASCULINE DANCERS WANTED The Stable is hiring masculine male dancers. Please contact Howard at 954-296-9512 ---------------------------------------------------JUST FOR MEN BARBER SHOP Is now hiring experienced barbers. Please call 954-530-0202 ---------------------------------------------------WANTED: MALE DANCERS Must be over 21. NO house fees. Friday nights at The Depot. Please complete application and submit a picture to Marc at The Depot, 1243 NE 11th Avenue. Mon Friday 1 PM to midnight. ---------------------------------------------------HOME HEALTH CARE AID Seeking qualified (CNA or LPN) home health care aid(s) in Broward. Reply via email with resume to HitachiNYC@aol. com or call Brian at 917-873-4753.
Health/Fitness PRIVATE PERSONAL TRAINING GYM Rene Endara, World Champion Bodybuilder And Personal Trainer. Call for Free Consultation 954-394-6979 www.ReneEndara.com ---------------------------------------------------REMOVE THE HAIR FROM ANYWHERE European Speed Wax, European Hard Wax, Body Grooming. Don DiCarlo 954-734-5531 www.TheBeachSpa.com Lic. CL1183450 ---------------------------------------------------MOBILE TEETH WHITENING $49 Hotspots Special $69 Couples Special Call for Info & Appointment 954-583-0511 ---------------------------------------------------ROBINS CHIROPRACTIC Dr. Bruce Robins Quality Chiropractic Care From a Doctor you can Trust. Free Constultation & Exam 954-523-5336 701-D East Broward Blvd. Fort Lauderdale, FL
SFGN’S Classified SOAPBOx
Coffee House Gypsies Hold Tobacco Road Concert for AIDS Walk Miami
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n Wednesday, April 14, 2010 @ 9:00 PM the legendary TOBACCO ROAD will join forces once again with South Florida’s pop-rock band THE COFFEE HOUSE GYPSIES in collaboration with CARE RESOURCE for a concert event to raise awareness about HIV and AIDS. Taking place just three days before the 22nd AIDS Walk Miami, the concert will kick off the 2010 AIDS Walk Week. The event will feature live art with silent auction. All proceeds from artwork auctioned at the show will go to Care Resource. Admission for this show will be $10 at the door or $7 for advanced tickets and a portion of all door and ticket sales will go to Care Resource. You must be 21 or older to attend. Tobacco Road is located at 626 South Miami Avenue, 33130. The event will feature live art and cameo appearances by other local bands such as: phoenix/NEBULIN, For The Record, Pretty On Paper,Tony Cruz of The Bailouts and Zaida from Ego Band. The changing face of AIDS in this nation reflects a devastating number of people in South Florida. Fort Lauderdale ranks
third and Miami ranks fourth in AIDS rates among metropolitan areas in the nation. The 22nd Annual AIDS Walk Miami™ fundraiser is scheduled for Saturday, April 17th, 2010. Sign up for the Walk today and help fight HIV/AIDS in your community. The International One-day fundraiser Dining Out For Life is also back for a 5th exciting year on Thursday, April 29, 2010. Dine Out and Help to Save Lives. The ‘Gypsies’ have been active in Miami’s music scene since 1997 and they have performed in New York City and all over South Florida. They were the only band to-date to win nine Status QuO South Florida Live Music Awards with nominations in ten categories.
---------------------------------------------------CARE RESOURCE HIV RAPID TESTING BROWARD COUNTY 830 E. Oakland Park Blvd Oakland Park, FL 33334 For Info Call 954-567-7141 FREE and CONFIDENTIAL TESTING FROM 9:30 AM TO 5:00 PM www.CareResource.org/testinginfo.html ---------------------------------------------------HIV AND STD TESTING AT THE GLCC 2040 N. Dixie Highway Wilton Manors, FL 33305 For more details and info call: 954-463-9005 or visit www.GLCCSF.org ---------------------------------------------------RESEARCH STUDY EARN CASH Are you a sexually active gay/bi man? You may be eligible to participate in a paid research study! Call ROOM Project 954-566-8206
Real Estate THE GAYLE BORDEN REAL ESTATE GROUP www.GayleBorden.com Direct Office: 954-525-3355 Direct Mobile: 954-815-6233 Coldwell Banker ---------------------------------------------------RE/MAX PARTNERS LAS OLAS Joe Ando, PA Realtor ® Cell: 954-616-9655 Jim Cunningham, PA Realtor ®, ABR®, e-PRO® Cell: 954-854-3777 www.WereSellingParadise.com ---------------------------------------------------PRO-TEAM FLORIDA Mike Walters 954-608-3807 Barry Murac 954-296-7700 www.SunshineHomes4Sale.com ---------------------------------------------------BERGER REALTY GROUP, INC. Gary Katz 954-803-0885 heronbayagent@aol.com ---------------------------------------------------ATLANTIC PROPERTIES INTERNATIONAL Scott Rouda, Realtor®, GRI, TRC, ICREA 954-643-7077 www.ScottRouda.com ---------------------------------------------------CASTELLI REAL ESTATE SERVICES Steven Pizzuto 954-873-2830 www.CastelliHomes.com ---------------------------------------------------FOR SALE BY OWNER WILTON MANORS DUPLEX Two Units (2/2 w/ Florida Room & 1/1), 1700 Sq Ft, New Central Air/Heat, Large Fenced Yard, Accordian Hurricane Shutters,$269,900. Call Donna 954-234-9001 ---------------------------------------FT LAUDERDALE/LAUDER LAKES PRIMARILY GAY PARK Hurricane Ready 1,600sf 2BR/2BA 1 Yr Old, 32’ Party Deck overlooks huge Lake. Manufactured Home. Wood Cabinets & Granite Tops, Slate & Marble floors. Immaculate. Real Show Place! Pics @ www.twitpic.com/photos/ FLParadise4Sale Cost $205K+, Sell $149,900, Call 954.817.6233 -------------------------------------------------WILTON MANORS POOL HOME 3 bedrooms 2.5 baths almost 2000 sq ft beautifully renovated and rebuilt in 2008. New roof, new impact windows, new kitchen, new baths,new heated pool.Extra large corner lot. Walk to Wilton Drive. Asking $569,000. Call Glenn Smith Coastland Realty 954-873-4220 --------------------------------------------NORTH ANDREWS GARDENS 2BD/2BA Pool home with paver patio, 1 car garage with paver driveway, designer kitchen, new tile roof, new AC, new paint, baseboards, doors, etc. 81 NW 48th Court, $189,000. Gerrity Realty, Bill Gerrity 954-493-8836.
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March 29 , 2010 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com
CLASSIFIEDS@HOTSPOTSMAGAZINE.COM
Roommates Roommate sought, Middle River Terrace. 30 yr old professional in search of gay white male, age 25-35 to share spacious, clean, all tile apartment in Middle River Terrace! $450 per month, small dogs, OK. Rent/ Contact: 954-515-7185 ---------------------------------------------------ROOMMATE TO SHARE OAKLAND PARK POOL HOME Large 4BD/3BA ranch style house with screened in pool on the Lloyd Estate. Bedroom has walk-in closet and private bath. All utilities, internet and Direct TV included. Share with two guys and a cat. No smoking, drugs or additional pets. Please be responsible and employed. $700/Mo. Avail April 1st. Michael 954-540-3543 ---------------------------------------------------GM TO SHARE 2BR/1BA HOME OFF COMMERCIAL BLVD Cable, internet, community pool and golf. 4 to 5 miles to Wilton Manors. $550/month. +$300/sec. Call Mark 954-731-1543 ---------------------------------------------------PALM AIRE COUNTRY CLUB/ POMPANO Roommate needed to share my 2000 square foot condo on the golf course. Private bed/bath. Fully Furnished. W/D in unit. Beautiful pool/recreation area. Must be professional, clean, drug free. 700/ Mo.incl.all utilities & cable in bedroom + $700 sec.Call or email Chris. 203-232-7005 cbert30@aol.com ---------------------------------------------------PRIVATE GETAWAY Gated clothing optional Complex , 23 year old full time student/worker looking for Similar. No heavy substance abusers. Internet cable water and included. On site laundry , pool and bbq. Must have Job and Transportation. 600/mo + Security. Call 954330-6604 or Dontaviouslenard@gmail.com
---------------------------------------------------OAKLAND PARK 2BD/1BA Gated Complex, Mature male looking for same. Quiet, Clothes free Apt, clothing optional pool, laundry & BBQ. No Drunks/ Drugs. $550/mo. + dep. Iincl. elect., internet & cable in own room. Call 561-302-5218 after 6:30 PM
Rent/Lease 2 BEDROOM 1 BATH DUPLEX IN WILTON MANORS Walking distance to clubs and shops and in a nice neighborhood. Please call Clint at 954-445-7718 or 954-565-8437 for your move in special. ---------------------------------------------------1 BEDROOM 1 BATH IN WILTON MANORS. This unit has large closets and central heat and air. Walk to clubs and shops. Please call Clint at 954-4457718 or 954-565-8437 for your move in special. ---------------------------------------------------LAKEVIEW CLUB CONDOS 2/2 condo, fully furnished, all wood floors, alarm, WiFi Internet, $1,150/Mo. 2/2 condo, lakeview w/screened balcony. Unfurnished $1,050/mo. Full size washer/ dryer in units. Pets OK to 50lbs .State of the art gym, olympic size pool. Close to Downtown Ft. Ld. & only 5 miles to the beach. Call Robbie BH&G Rlty. 954-849-5223 ---------------------------------------------------2 BEDROOM 2 BATH ON LAS OLAS, this is a large unit and very spacious. You can walk to the nightlife of Las Olas and have gorgeous views. Unit available April 1st. Please Call Clint at 954-445-7718 or 954-565-8437 for your move in special. ---------------------------------------------------2 BEDROOM 1 BATH DUPLEX IN WILTON MANORS. Walking distance to clubs and shops and in a nice neighborhood. Please call Clint at 954-445-7718 or 954-565-8437 for your move in special.
--------------------------------------------------- 1 BEDROOM 1 BATH IN WILTON MANORS. This unit has large closets and central heat and air. Walk to clubs and shops. Please call Clint at 954-4457718 or 954-565-8437 for your move in special. --------------------------------------------------- 2 BEDROOM 2 BATH ON LAS OLAS, this is a large unit and very spacious. You can walk to the nightlife of Las Olas and have gorgeous views. Unit available April 1st. Please Call Clint at 954-445-7718 or 954-565-8437 for your move in special. ---------------------------------------------------1/1 CLOSE TO BEACH & GATEWAY Key West style 1/1, central AC, vaulted ceilings, DW, open floor plan, private fenced courtyard, pets OK. W/D on premises. $875, first/security. 954-914-9144 ---------------------------------------------------FORT LAUDERDALE - SOUTH MIDDLE RIVER Completely remodeled 3/2 house. All new appliances, fixtures, W/D, central AC, ceiling fans and wood floors throughout. $1,375/Mo. Call Brian 954-610-1320 ---------------------------------------------------CLEANEST APT IN TOWN 1BD/1BA completely remodeled, micro, patio, cent ac, tile, priv parking, W/D on prem., small complex only 4 units, drive by and see bldg 1645 N.Dixie Hwy, then Call Nick 954-805-1195 for showing. $795/Mo. will work w/ you on move-in costs. ---------------------------------------------------2BD/2BA IN OAKLAND PARK Sailboat Point Condos, 1st Floor, Lake Front, fresh paint, W/D in unit, Large Terrace, pool, fitness center, tennis court. $1,025/Mo. Call 516-459-1195 Avail. Immediately ---------------------------------------------------WILTON MANORS WATERFRONT ON THE PARK Waterfront 1BD/1BA, new kitchen, spacious apt. $875/Mo. Call 954-224-8768 ---------------------------------------------------PRIVATE TROPICAL NATURIST PARADISE Modern and private 2/2 fenced in gated compound with private naturist resort pool area. Tile flooring. Includes free water, cable and laundry facility. Pets allowed. 2nd BR has outside entrance, perfect for roommate. Near downtown. $1,200/mo. Call owner 954-557-4333.
---------------------------------------------------EAST FORT LAUDERDALE - ONE MINUTE TO WILTON DRIVE - 2/2 IN A TROPICAL PARK-LIKE SETTING Large, quiet 2BD/2 full bath unit. Totally renovated with porcelain tile, granite & stainless kitchen, granite in baths, dining room, central A/C, ceiling fans, D/W, W/D in unit & more. Charming, beautifully landscaped 5-plex close to beach. $1,175/ mo. Call Rick 954-253-1929 or email BoisTropicalHome@aol.com for photos.
---------------------------------------------------MIDDLE RIVER TERRACE Large 1BD/1BA in fourplex. Tile floors throughout, laundry facilities, parking, less than 1 mile to Wilton Drive. $750/Mo. Also 2/2, Extra large, Cent AC, fenced backyard, quiet, $950/Mo. Call 954-815-2550 ---------------------------------------------------MIDDLE RIVER TERRACE 2/1 Corner unit updated, central a.c, quiet, lots of windows, great location in quiet complex. $900/mo. F/L/S 954-270-0304
---------------------------------------------------HOLLYWOOD Studio apartment with seperate bedroom. Fully furnished, full kitchen, cable TV, utilities included. Close to beaches and downtown. $650/Mo. 954-929-2365 ---------------------------------------------------VICTORIA PARK UPDATED 1 BEDROOM Completely Renovated 1 bedroom, Central Air, Walk-In Closet, DW, Micro, Hurricane Windows/Doors. Walk to Gateway and Galleria. N/S. $850 mo. 954-270-0304 ---------------------------------------------------VICTORIA PARK CONDO 2BR/1BA fully furnished condo for rent. Central air & heat, pool, tile floors, D/W, balcony, parking space, secured building. No Pets. $950 per month plus electric, F/S. Call 954-565-2714. ---------------------------------------------------2/1 IN OAKLAND PARK 5-PLEX - GREAT NEIGHBORS Good size apartment, ideal floorplan for roommates. Living/dining room with open plan kitchen, dishwasher, fridge/freezer, Central air, tile floors, New paint, parking, small pets with approval. Clean and ready now. $895/Mo. Michael 954-540-3543 ---------------------------------------------------WILTON MANORS AREA APARTMENTS **$675 Large Studio with full bathroom, kitchen, and walk in closet with laundry facilities on site, and private locked courtyard. All utilities included. **$1,100 Large 2 bedroom, 2 full bathroom’s and walk in closet Apt. Newly remodeled with new cabinets and tile throughout the unit; and laundry facilities on site. Private locked courtyard. **$775. Large 1 bedroom & 1 1/2 bathrooms with pantry, and 6 Ft’ long closets. Also features tile floors (approx. 800 sq. ft’) with laundry facilities on site, and private locked courtyard. Includes W/S/G/L. **$800.00 Great Location In Wilton Manors 1 bedroom 1 bathroom in a triplex unit just south of Stork’s Bakery. Updated bathroom with tile throughout unit. **$875. 2BD/1.5BA, updated, tile throughout, newer kitchen/bath. Laundry on site. Call Melissa for info at 954-563-6672
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March 29 , 2010 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com ---------------------------------------------------CHARMING LAKE RIDGE 1/1 In a 5 plex. Garden setting. Close to shops, transport, etc. Clean & ready now. Cent AC, tile floors, ceiling fans, W/D on prem. Small pets ok w/approv. $760/Mo. Michael 954-540-3543
Professional Services LYONS SNYDER LAW GROUP Criminal Defense Attorneys 954-462-8035 www.LyonsSnyder.com ---------------------------------------------------LAW OFFICES OF GEORGE CASTRATARO Bankruptcy, Civil Litigation, Estate Planning/Wills, Foreclosure Defense & Negotiation, GLBT Issues, Small Business. 954-573-1444 www.LAWGC.com ---------------------------------------------------MAYERSOHN LAW GROUP P.A. State/Federal Criminal Defense & White Collar Crime 954-765-1900, 866-765-1900 www.MayersohnLaw.com ---------------------------------------------------DRUCKER LAW OFFICES Personal Injury, Auto Accidents,Wrongful Death, Slip/Trip & Falls, Defective Product Injuries, Workplace. Injuries. 954-755-2120 www.FloridaLawTeam.com ---------------------------------------------------LAW OFFICES OF CHRIS MANCINI, PA Criminal Defense, Civil Litigation Office: 954-522-2744 Cell: 305-219-6919 www.ChrisManciniEsq.com ---------------------------------------------------STEPHEN D. JEROME, ATTORNEY AT LAW, Bankruptcy, Mortgage Foreclosure Defense, Wills, Estate Planning & Probate, Real Estate, Closings, Domestic Partnership Agreements, 954-946-0916, SJerome_ Esq@bellsouth.net ---------------------------------------------------ATTORNEY ROBIN L. BODIFORD, JD, MSW, Wills & Trusts, Bankruptcy, Trust Admin, Probate,GLBT Issues, Incorporations, 954-630-2707, www. RobinBodifordLaw.com ---------------------------------------------------GREGORY W. KABEL ATTORNEY AT LAW, Wills & Trusts, Estate Planning, Probate, Domestic Agreements, Business Formation & Transactions, Real Estate. 2312 Wilton Drive, Wilton Manors, FL 33305 954-761-7770, gwkesq@bellsouth.net ---------------------------------------------------EXPERT CARPET, TILE & UPHOLSTERY CLEANING BY DESI $59.99 2 Rooms, Deep Steam Cleaning Carpet or Sofa, Free Deodorizer $99.00 Winter Special Tile & Grout Or 35 cents per sq.ft. 954-383-5054 ---------------------------------------------------ONE STOP SHOPPING AND ASSOCIATES HANDYMAN/REMODELING AND MORE WITH OVER 30 YEARS EXPERIENCE IN ALL PHASES OF... Home improvements, a/c, extensions, electrical, plumbing, painting, kitchen, baths, flooring/ trim, steel erector and fabricator. PGT Impact Windows at Factory Direct Prices. Former owner of a NY remodeling co. as well as a hands on worker, because I demand perfection in all I do. Please call Mitch for prompt honest and dependable service. Lic. CGC1514441, EC13001388 and insured. (954) 253-4650 ---------------------------------------------------“I SHOW UP” HANDYMAN 954-684-9277 Sean SeanHarrenFTL@mac.com ---------------------------------------------------BROWARD BOYS PAINTERS Residential & Commercial Interior & Exterior 954-720-9605 www.BrowardBoys.com ---------------------------------------------------THE PAINTING COMPANY Residential & Commercial, Solids, Faux Finishes, Murals, Color Coordination, Venetian Plaster, interior/Exterior. 954-2928219 PAINTandFAUX@aol.com ---------------------------------------------------CGR PROFESSIONAL PAINTING Broward, West Palm, Dade Residential/Commercial 786-419-1360 ---------------------------------------------------TOTAL MANAGEMENT SOLUTIONS, INC. Condo & HOA Management Bookkeeping, Tenant Screening Contractor/Employee Oversight 954-727-3833, www.TotalMSolutions.com
---------------------------------------------------PANE IN THE GLASS Window Tint Removal, Window Cleaning Power Washing, Screen Repairs Handyman, Painting. Call Scotty 954-566-4415, Lic. & Insured ---------------------------------------------------GREAT MASSAGE! GREAT RATES! PRIVATE STUDIO NOW OPEN! Great Massage, Great Rates. See my Display ad, or visit my website at www. massagebyjim.com Call Jim Libonati at 954-600-5843. Licensed, insured and nationally certified MA50898 ---------------------------------------------------A&A ROOFING AND GENERAL CONTRACTORS 954-274-9378 Licensed & Insured #93BS00177 ---------------------------------------------------EXPERT AIR ADVICE AIR CONDITIONING REPAIRS Cooling is what we do best. FPL rebates, insured, CACO 36862 FREE estimates on replacements $75 tune up, Call 954-764-1990 ---------------------------------------------------ONE CALL DOES IT ALL BY HOUSE! Carpet Cleaning, House Cleaning, Tile & Grout, Upholstery Air Ducts, Pressure Cleaning- Patios, sidewalks, & drive ways. Construction and Foreclosure Clean Up. Cell 954-515-7615 ---------------------------------------------------PLANNING A MOVE? At Cousins USA Moving & Storage, we want you to smile when you think of moving day, and we want you to tell a friend how pleasant your moving experience has been. For more info on about how we can make moving day a good day. Call toll-free at 1-888-300-MOVE, ask for Carlos. ---------------------------------------------------NEED A LAWYER ? Criminal Defense * DUI Traffic * Accidents * Injuries * Personal Injury * AAA Attorney Referral Service 24 Hours * 1-800-733-5342 ---------------------------------------------------RTS ELECTRIC 24 HOUR SERVICE Quality work at a reasonable price. Licensed & Insured #98-CME-1807-X. Contact 954-257-9509. Also, all size generator service and installation. ---------------------------------------------------DEREK’S 24 HR HANDYMAN SERVICE Introducing our new cabinet shop. For all your Custom Made Cabintetry, Countertops and Laminates. MUST SEE OUR WORK! JUST ASK OUR CLIENTS! All Electrical to code, any/all plumbing work, drywall finish work/repair, crown/ baseboard pro-install, int/ext painting, demo work, pressure washing, DECOR TILE Install, complete home up-dates. For large jobs, 4-man crew abailable. WE HANDLE IT ALL. Instant call back direct service response. No job is ever too small. Excellent references. Derek 954-825-5598 or email: DerekGallaway@att.net ---------------------------------------------------LANDSCAPING, LAWNMOWING & MAINTENENCE - WE DO IT ALL INTEGRITY LANSCAPING SERVICE & MAINT. No Job Too Small! Call Call John 954-812-5434 or 954-763-3340 ---------------------------------------------------DJ/PRODUCER FOR HIRE 15+ Years Experience. Worldwide Performances. Over 200,000 records sold. Available for private parties or corporate events. Call 954-295-2220 or E-Mail: DJJulian@aol.com ---------------------------------------------------GUYS AND DOLLIES Moving • Storage • Packing • Crating • Shipping. “A” Rated Member of the BBB. Registered Movers since 1976. Major Credit Cards accepted. For FREE price quote call 954-566-1270 ---------------------------------------------------RESPONSIBLE AND RELIABLE HOUSE CLEANER Available for Broward County Area. Great references. Please call Fabio at 508-7685104 or email maria113usa@hotmail.com ---------------------------------------------------CARPENTER FOR HIRE 35 Years Experience. Window and door replacement, trim & moldings, faux wood floors, cabinetry, expert painting. Call Mike 954-830-0536
---------------------------------------------------IRRIGATION SYSTEM REPAIR AND MAINTENANCE 19 yrs. experience, excellent work, referrals by request. Call Roberto at 954-383-8980 ---------------------------------------------------HANDY MAN SERVICE Professional, safe, reliable, painting, bathroom, tile and flooring. Repair or replace faucet fixture ,toilets, ceiling fans electrical outlets and dimmer switches, Install lighting fixtures. I work with Realtors home owners. Installing counter tops and cabinets. Free estimate call Eli for more info 954-638-7034. ---------------------------------------------------BRUCE ELECTRIC CORP. Fair rates/quality work. All electrical services. Repairs/upgrades. Generator sales/ installations. Prompt/reliable/dependable. State licensed & ins. EC13001903 954-748-6234 ---------------------------------------------------* EARLY BIRD CONSTRUCTION * ROOFING, CARPENTRY, TILE, PAINT. Honest and ON TIME! 954-274-9378 ---------------------------------------------------***CLEAN IT RITE*** THE BEST CLEANING FOR YOUR BUCK! 1BD $45, 2BD $55, 3BD $65. Excellent rates and references. 10 years in the business. Call Manny at 954-560-4443
Services ITALIAN BODYWORK Call me for your next great body rub! 954-494-5936 ---------------------------------------------------DEEP MUSCULAR MASSAGE If my massage isn’t one of the best you’ve ever had, you don’t have to pay me. Jamie G. 954-547-4872 ---------------------------------------------------RELAX IN A MAN’S HANDS Hot Rubs $70+ North Dade IN/OUT Pro Table Paul 305-903-3331 ---------------------------------------------------STEVE-JORDAN.COM Experience the ultimate in bodywork! 954-560-2542 ---------------------------------------------------A GREAT MASSAGE AWAITS! I offer excellent massage sessions consisting of Deep Tissue, Swedish and Sensual Touch. I can customize the session to your needs. Try adding a Shave-Trim / Saltscrub / Bodywash / Face Treatment & More! Me: 41, Hot Bear Cub with nice legs and butt. Clothing Optional. Hours 8am -Midnight. To book an appointment, Call David 954-8028128 http://davidrubnmassage.webs.com. DavidRubnMassage@aol.com ---------------------------------------------------USA BODYWORK Kenn Steed, Fort Lauderdale 954-683-3360 www.USABodywork.us ---------------------------------------------------MILITARY LOOKING AND HUNG 51,Tall, Muscular & Masculine. 8.5 x 6 cut. Deep muscle. COME and RELEASE your TENSION. IN/OUT calls 8 AM to 7PM EVERYDAY. Clean, STD Free, and discreet. 954-257-0782 or Mineis8.5X6@gmail.com
---------------------------------------------------***TOTAL BLISS**** If you overweight and over 60 you get my $60 special. Totally release every ounce of stress from your body by 43 yr old, 5’6”, 150lbs, moderately hairy, 8.5”, thick rugged hung nude dude. You will find it hard to get off the table when I’m through with you. Showers available. Ask about four hands! Call Steve 954-770-6117 or 954-661-4920 ---------------------------------------------------ITALIAN MAN MASSAGE Beefy Italian man 6’ 180# muscular hairy chest will give you a great deep tissue/ erotic massage on my table in my Wilton Manors studio from 9am to 9pm at a price you can afford Call Joe 954-270-0357 ---------------------------------------------------ORIENTAL WORK Full Body Deep Tissue work given by athletic, muscular, nice Asian guy, 5’7”, 130lbs. 954-548-5081 Lee ---------------------------------------------------I WILL RUB YOU RIGHT! Joe 954-270-0357 ---------------------------------------------------BODY & ENERGY WORK Offering 1 HR Full Body Massage To Release Stress and Tension. Licensed Massage Therapist from Provincetown. Wilton Manors $55 w/ Table. Call Keith 954-764-8478 10 AM to 8 PM Daily ---------------------------------------------------MAN OH MAN 34 yr old, Good looking, Muscular, Hot Body Guy. Available For Full Body Erotic Rubs. Sure To Please Every Aching Muscle. Mike 954-328-2321. www.rentboy.com ---------------------------------------------------SOUTH BEACH MAN 2 MAN MASSAGE A REAL Professional Massage By A Sexy, 5’8”, 170, Blond, Smooth, Mid-40’s, Muscular Fitness Trainer / CMT - Certified Massage Therapist. Call / Text 310-7392085 - 24/7 - For Info / Appointments ---------------------------------------------------LET ME SHAVE YOU NAKED! Sensual body shaving and intimate hair removal in the comfort of your own home. Friendly, no attitude, Broward only. $50.00 per session, call Michael at 954-581-4850 ---------------------------------------------------HUNG BISEXUAL LATIN GUY 28 YO, 5’10”, 175lbs, Smooth, Great Shape & Very Sexy, Honey Eyes, Masculine, 8 Inches, No Attitude - Let me relax you all the way! Call Luis 786-290-4796 ---------------------------------------------------TOP TO BOTTOM BODY RUB Offering a sensual rubdown by a 51 year old top, 5’9”, 175lbs, hung thick and long. $45/hour. Wilton Manors Location. Call Jason 954-551-0700 ---------------------------------------------------BODY RUB BY SEXY ASIAN Trained, skilled, open-minded with table and erotic finish. Cute and Slim. IN/OUT Call Kim anytime. 954-729-0226 ---------------------------------------------------BLACK GUY 4 EROTIC RUBS Experience the touch of a Caribbean black male. Masculine and discreet. In/Out. 24/7. Damian 786-270-7745
---------------------------------------------------BODY CARE SERVICES 4 Hand or Solo Massage. Master Haircuts, Body Trims, Private Shaves, Waxing Facials, Manicures, Pedicures, Personal Trainer, Pet Sitter. Daniel 954-260-5588 www.Masseurfinder.com/bodyspa Lic.# MA15163 ---------------------------------------------------BESTOFFLORIDAMASSAGE.COM 8AM – 8PM, 7 Days a week 954-356-9348 ---------------------------------------------------AWESOME BODYWORK BY PAUL www.PaulBunting.com/Yoga Escape Now! Experience Hands On Thai Yin Yoga Bodywork and Feel The ultimate enjoyment! 60 or 90 Minute sessions! 954-756-2615 ---------------------------------------------------HAIRY MASCULINE BODY RUB Friendly, Discreet, Professional, Sensual Rub $75+ Call Bo 954-880-7543. www. massagem4m.com/musclechest4xrub ---------------------------------------------------REAL MASSAGE WITH A SENSUAL EDGE. Experienced, Intuitive & Sensual Call Tommy, CMT 646-416-0800 www.masseurfinder.com/BodyworkByTommy
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March 29 , 2010 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com
Sports
Gay Polo Tourney Open to Public
Cheering section from a Gay Polo League Game
D
uring the 1st Annual International Gay Polo Tournament Presented by Credit Suisse there will be multiple events for the public to attend. Starting on Thursday April 1, 2010, there
will be Celebrity Bartending at the Player’s Club, from 6 to 8 pm. During the polo tournament there will be a competition for the best tailgate party, and the participants will be judged on three areas: the best decora-
Wayne Besen continued from page 21
awaiting Armageddon. The very strategy of today’s conservative movement is an affront to this nation. They incite their most fervent and fanatic followers by questioning the legitimacy of America’s leaders and institutions. They engage in legislative obstruction. Worse, many of these zealots believe that God commands them to rule, while anyone else is a usurper of the natural political order. Republicans are also fanning the flames of regionalism and trying to balkanize this nation for political gain. When asked if passing the bill would help democrats politically, Sen. Lamar Alexander (R-Tenn.) replied, “Someone at Harvard or in San Francisco may think that, but not the rest of the country.” This rhetoric mirrors that of Gov. Tim Pawlenty (R-Minn.) who spoke at the Conservative Political Action Conference last month and derided liberals for supposedly hanging out at “Chablis-drinking, Brie-eating parties in San Francisco.” At the anti-healthcare rally, cantankerous protesters yelled, “Kill the bill.” There
is legitimate concern that the overheated rhetoric will lead to the death of real people. Republicans and Tea Baggers can only shout “fire” in a crowded theatre for so long before an unbalanced individual moves decisively to extinguish the alleged conflagration. As far as the politics of healthcare, the GOP will suffer. Obama proved he can be tough and get things done in Washington - and everybody loves a winner. In the end, the public will appreciate their new benefits and the GOP is now in the position of trying to deny health insurance to people with preexisting conditions. Good luck on that. Finally, the gloom and doom scenarios painted by overwrought phonies, such as House Minority Leader John Boehner (ROhio), will not come to pass. This is no different than when social conservatives claimed that civil unions in Vermont and marriage equality in Massachusetts would destroy the world. Obviously, this did not happen. The sooner the public sees the sky is not falling, the faster the polling numbers will plummet for Republicans who voted on the wrong side of history.
tions, the best food, and the best overall presentation. The tournament is scheduled to begin at noon on April 3, 2010 at the Grand Champions Polo Club in Wellington, Florida. It will feature top polo players from the Gay Polo League (GPL), as well as high-goal professional polo players. Tickets for the VIP Club and Tailgate Spaces are available now, and General Admission will be available at the gate. After the tournament, an Asado and Cocktail Party will occur at the Mallet Grille Patio at the Palm Beach International Polo Club. The public are welcome to attend the post tournament party for $35 per person.
GPL is the sole international polo league to be primarily comprised of lesbian and gay players. Founded to enable gay men and women to share their interest in this unique sport, GPL has created a community of passionate, like-minded athletes. GPL’s mission is to provide the gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender (GLBT) community with the opportunity to develop and refine the necessary skills for participating in this exceptional sport. To achieve its mission, GPL continues to promote participation in amateur competitions and foster fellowship and goodwill among all members. Where: Grand Champions Polo Club Located at the corner of Lake Worth Road and South Shore Boulevard
When: Saturday, April 3, 2010
Time: 1:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m.
47
March 29 , 2010 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com
A.J. Cross
Nominee Thwarted
Sex in Our City continued from page 12
guarantee of equal protection required samesex couples have the same access to marriage licenses as straight couples. Keeping Faith with the Constitution, a book he co-authored with two others, praised the U.S. Supreme Court’s 2003 decision, Lawrence v. Texas, striking down sodomy laws. “In worrying that criminalization of private homosexual conduct invites public discrimination against homosexual persons,” said Keeping Faith, “the Court understood that the lives and identities of gay people transcend what they do in their bedrooms to encompass who they are in civil society. Protecting gay people’s choices within the intimacy of their homes serves essentially as a safeguard of their dignity in a more public sphere.” Liu also criticized the nomination of John Roberts Jr. to the Supreme Court, calling it a “seismic event that threatens to deepen the nation’s red-blue divide.” Roberts’ legal career, wrote Liu, “is studded with activities unfriendly to civil rights, abortion rights, and the environment.” Not surprisingly, Liu’s legal career has been studded with activities friendly to civil rights, abortion rights, and the environment. Liu clerked for U.S. Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg during the 2000 to 2001 session and was a member of the Obama-Biden transition team’s Education Policy Working Group. He’s also a board member of the ACLU-Northern California, the National Women’s Law Center, and the American Constitution Society. He graduated from Stanford University, won a Rhodes Scholarship to Oxford, was editor of the Yale Law Journal, and numerous other awards. His wife is a senior fellow at the Center for American Progress, a liberal think tank. Liu was scheduled to come before the Senate Judiciary Committee on Wednesday. But Republicans employed an obscure tactical maneuver to block almost all Senate committee hearings from taking place –including Liu’s confirmation hearing. Their purpose is purportedly to exert some leverage on the bill of “fixes” to the just signed health care reform bill. A spokesman for the Judiciary Committee said it’s impossible to predict when the Liu hearing will be able to proceed.
A Column by AJ Cross about Sex, Relationships, Love & Heartbreak
Finding Truth
W
hat happened to the truth? Where has it gone? It seems now more than ever that people simply have no interest in the truth. The truth about who they are, what they do or anything that truth should be attached to. People are staying in relationships pretending to be happy, because the alternative of loneliness or tragic break up is less appealing than remaining in the lie. People are creating realities to accommodate personal failure, such as making up jobs they don’t have or skills they have never acquired and passing this fiction on to the rest of society. People are lying about other people simply to give themselves some sense of underserved credibility. What happened to the days when a trash man was proud to say he was a trash man, because he was taking care of his family and paying the bills? What happened to the man that could look his lover right in the eyes and tell him that he was no longer in love with him? Why stay in something that is based on a lie. Our lives are so precious and the time is so limited, that we should spend it seeking and finding something that truly brings us happiness. We should not be so selfish as to keep someone imprisoned in a false truth simply because we think we are safeguarding their feelings. The old cliché that “the truth hurts” is in itself a truth. We do not want to hear that we are not qualified for the job, or that our personal hygiene could use some attention, because those around us can barely stomach the smell of us. We do not want to be told that what we just thought was the best sex of our lives was for the other person the most regretful two minutes of theirs. Even homeless people, who have nothing to
lose in being honest, find the need to lie displaying a sign on the neck of a dog with a broken leg stating that the money is to feed the dog. Wouldn’t it be refreshing to see a homeless person holding a sign that read “my life sucks-give me money so I can get drunk enough to forget who I am for a few hours.” It is as if we are as a society allergic to the truth. Some people will actually go into some kind of possessed, hyperventilating fit when faced with the truth, especially when it is directed at them. I can’t tell you how many times I have heard “how dare you” or a sentence prefaced with “honestly”. If it is an honest statement, then the truth in it should carry the statement without saying that you are being honest. The worse is when someone says “I heard” or “so and so told me” when they have no idea whether or not what they are repeating is the truth. It is despicable to continue a possible lie for gossips sake, especially when that lie could ultimately hurt someone. People spend the better portion of their hard earned money purchasing name brand glasses, clothing or a car for which they cannot afford, simply to project an image
that they feel is more acceptable to society, instead being smart and keeping the electric on in their home. I believe that finding the truth has become one of the most difficult endeavors of our time and this transcends all race, sexual orientation, financial status or sexuality. The next time that you feel the lie building up and about to exit your mouth, stop and consider the damage that it might do, or the consequences should someone look deeper or see past your lie. Think of how you feel when someone is dishonest with you. The whitest of lies can turn out to be dirty. The next time you think that you are being merciful and kind by not stating the truth, try believing that the truth may actually bring relief and salvation to an unhappy situation. You are who you are and you should never think that you need to be “accepted”. In fact if the person you are pretending to be is what those around you are introduced to, then you aren’t really being accepted anyway. I challenge you to stand up for truth and demand it at every moment in every situation. I challenge you to stand up for someone who is the beneficiary of lies. Stand up and stop the lie from continuing. Tell someone that is gossiping that you have no interest in what they are saying. I challenge you to question what you hear or read until you find the truth. The only way to find truth is to search for it and to make decisions and choices based on your personal experiences and gut. Intuition is so often ignored and such a powerful tool to finding truth. When you instinctually sense that something is off, or that something doesn’t make total sense, then it probably is off and you should make it known that you don’t believe it. Be proud of the person you are and don’t focus on what you do for a living, but the fact that in this economy you are simply working. There is nothing to prove, at least not to anyone other than you. The truth is out there and it is time for us all to allow it to breathe.
Where Business Comes to Succeed. For advertising opportunities, call Cliff Dunn: 954-530-4970
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March 29 , 2010 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com
BRAVISSIMO IN THE EVENING Saturday, March 27
Photos by Steven Shires More photos on page 34.
The Sunshine Community Foundation celebrated the artistry of music with its ‘Bravissimo’ concert, featuring the Symphony of the Americas on Saturday, March 27.
AIDS WALK IN THE MORNING Sunday, March 28
Thousands gathered at Huizenga Plaza in Fort Lauderdale for the Florida AIDS WALK, to help benefit AIDS Healthcare Foundation, the Pride Center at Equality Park, Broward House and the Children’s Diagnostic and Treatment Center.