05/31/10 V1I19

DADT Goes to Senate

Vote Expected this Week Page 5

May 31, 2010 • VOLUME 1 • Issue 19

Leonard Matlovich

The Original Dan Choi Page 14

INSIDE THIS ISSUE

5

page

Rainbow Business Coalition

19

page

The Fairy Tale Life of Charles L. Ross

25

page

Healthy Summer Wines

40

page

F.A.G.S. and Their Rides

2

May 31 , 2010 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

Local News

Wilton Manors City Hall Gives Go-Ahead to a Main Street

By A. Sebastian Fortino

Blevins’ group to enter into negotiations with the city council almost immediately.

He expects that the actual transformation can begin in as soon as six months.

May 31 , 2010 • Volume 1 • Issue 19 In effect, the drive will be taken back from the State of Florida, specifically the Editorial Offices 2520 N. Dixie Highway • Wilton Manors, FL 33305 Florida Department of Transportation.

Phone: 954-530-4970 FAX: 954-530-7943 With an operating budget under $25 milNorm Kent lion, the city’s finances were argued as a Publisher and Editor in Chief reason not to “take back the drive.” publishernorm@southfloridagaynews.com A few opponents were as passionately Piero Guidugli against changing the Drive as those whom Chief Executive Officer were in favor of it. But it appears that the Vice President, Sales. . . . . . . Cliff Dunn cliff.dunn@southfloridagaynews.com Drive’s importance as a shopping, entertainment, and dining destination won out. Creative Director. . . . . . . . . George Dauphin george.dauphin@southfloridagaynews.com “We are very excited that the commu Online Website Director. . . . Dennis Jozefowicz nity has come together,” said Tom Tabor, Editorial Director and Committee Chairman of Managing Editor . . . . . . . . . Joey Amato Wilton Manors Main Street, Inc. “Personally, joey.amato@southfloridagaynews.com I am more excited about this, the second Copy Editor. . . . . . . . . . . . . Penn Bullock penn.bullock@southfloridagaynews.com vote, which was a unanimous move to News Editor. . . . . . . . . . . . . Jarrett Terrill forward and help improve the drive.” jarrett.t@southfloridagaynews.com He also says that this is just the begin Lifestyle & Features Editor. . A. Sebastian Fortino ning. Their initial plans will further develop sebastian.fortino@southfloridagaynews.com Arts/Entertainment Editor . . Mary Damiano with public involvement in refining the plan. marysfgn@gmail.com “Cyclists, pedestrians, locals, residents, SFGNites Editor. . . . . . . . . . JW Arnold employee can all have input,” said Tabor.“And Health/HIV Editor. . . . . . . . Paul Gallotta even visitors that frequent the Drive.”

Business Editor . . . . . . . . . . Richard Gary Senior Feature Tabor has researched small com Correspondent. . . . . . . . . . . Jesse Monteagudo munities throughout the U.S. that have Correspondent. . . . . . . . . . . Steve Fritz developed their main streets into hot, Contributing Columnists. . . Tony Adams, Wayne Besen, safe, destinations. Locally, Lauderdale by AJ Cross, Deb Price, Brian McNaught, the Sea and Hollywood have “taken back” Patricia Nell Warren their main drags with wonderful success. Sales Former City Council President Diane Display Marketing Associates. Joyce Bluestein John Fugate Cline was also present at the meeting and Jay Shadden spoke in favor of taking back the drive. The Brian Swinford self-described “strong-willed Irish woman” Classified Advertising. . . . . . Mike Trottier

ness, and Ordinance 962 was debated.

Ordinance 962 is an initiative that will give Wilton Manors the hallmark indicatain Street,” a shaded, ing a small town, namely a Main Street. tree-lined thoroughWilton Manors Main Street, Inc. has fare banked with cafes, small stores, and eateries, is the small-town been working on developing a Main Street for a few years now.

“This has been in the works since 2004,” said Doug Blevins, President of Wilton Manors Main Street, Inc. He feels that reworking the drive into a two-lane roadway has become even more viable since then.

“Since 2006 there have been eight pedestrians struck by vehicles—three of which died,” Blevins added.“Clearly this is the most important reason for this initiative.”

Hollywood’s main street The City Commission meeting brought about a victory by voting against American version of the piazza or square. taking the issue to the ballots. Presenting it to And at the May 25 Wilton Manors City voters, while democratic, could have pushed Commission meeting, the room was filled the negotiations back another year. Speakers with all the nuances of a small town. at the meeting stated that lives, and liveliA Kiwanis Club representative hoods, could not wait another year. spoke about an initiative to supply A 70-word referendum on the ballot, food to impoverished school children, people argued, would mislead voters. a local resident thanked city services for helping her through her mental ill- Taking it away from the voters will allow continued on page 38

“M

classifieds@hotspotsmagazine.com

954-928-1862

National Sales Representative. . . . . . . . Rivendell Media todd@rivendellmedia.com Distribution Manager. . . . . . John Fugate Delivery Services. . . . . . . . . Charles Braun 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

3

May 31 , 2010 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

Office of the Mayor City of Wilton Manors Proclamation WHEREAS, Harvey Bernard Milk was the first openly gay man to be elected to public office in California, serving on the San Francisco Board of Supervisors from 1977 until his life abruptly ended on November 22, 1978; and WHEREAS, during his time in office he was responsible for passing the first gay rights ordinance for the City of San Francisco; and WHEREAS, Harvey Milk is considered a “martyr for gay rights” and whereas Former Mayor of San Francisco Dianne Feinstein accurately expressed that “he believed no sacrifice was too great a price to pay for the cause of human rights”; and WHEREAS, Harvey Milk strongly believed that neighborhoods promote unity and should welcome all members of society, just as Wilton Manors believes in their neighborhoods; and WHEREAS, Milk was one of Time’s 100 Heroes and Icons of the 20th Century and was recently posthumously awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom by President Barack Obama in 2009 at which time the Presidents stated “he fought discrimination with visionary courage and conviction”; and WHEREAS, I, Mayor Resnick, on behalf of the City Commission of the City of Wilton Manors is honored to proclaim May 22nd, Harvey Milk’s Birthday, as

HARVEY MILK DAY in the City of Wilton Manors

L. Synalovski C.B.C., Inc. Where Environmental Building Is Second Nature

954-804-3516 lisasynalovski@gmail.com Green Building Practices, and Sustainable Solutions for all of your Project Needs • Remodeling: Kitchens and Baths • Fire, Flood, Hurricane Damage Repair • Room Additions • Cabanas • Outdoor Living Environments • New Home Construction

License # C.B.C.1257478

4

May 31 , 2010 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

Local News

ALERT Health Reaches the Surface

By Joey Amato

T

his week, ALERT Health will present its latest project, Reaching the Surface, a blend of contemporary dance, spoken word and live music, to increase awareness of the impact of the HIV/AIDS stigma. Artists both affected and infected by HIV will entertain and educate guests through a series of compelling and relatable stories.

Pioneer Winter, Artistic Director of Reaching the Surface, hopes the events will “ignite a greater understanding and compassion for those touched by HIV. Reaching the Surface was created because there is an increasing need to reach people on their own terms. We

are not trying to change minds; we only seek to share an alternate view, a fresh perspective.”

The events, produced by Winter himself, will take place in North Miami at the Museum of Contemporary Art Plaza on June 4, with a second performance at the Little Haiti Cultural Center on June 5.

Both performances, which begin at 8 p.m., are free and open to the public. “The shows will spark raw emotions, inspire new beliefs, and hopefully begin a healing for all,” says Winter.

At age 22, Winter is ambitious. “Reaching the Surface is just my first attempt at creating something with substance—the arts being used as an instrument of social

Raquel Glottman

Two Local Events Will Educate Community on HIV/AIDS

Reaching the Surface cast members London Porras and Michelle Miller

change, not just for its aesthetic.”

In addition to North Miami Mayor Andre Pierre, who will be speaking at both showings, Senator Federica Wilson and Commissioner Audrey Edmonson have already confirmed their attendance. Invitations have gone out to other key community leaders

Just Don’t Call It a ‘Death Panel’

as well, and Winter is optimistic on the outcome. “We are hoping for around 300 audience members per event.”

Winter is passionate about the project and encourages people to become advocates for victims of the disease. “Reaching the Surface was not created for those with HIV, though it impacts them,” states Winter.

Winter would like to increase the number of advocates promoting awareness of HIV. “For those who believe you must be HIV positive to be an advocate, they are missing the point of Reaching the Surface. There are dancers and musicians, including myself, who are not HIV positive, but still believe in the cause of reducing stigma.”

Founded in 1997, ALERT Health’s mission is to improve the health and quality of life for people at risk of chronic illness, by providing accessible, integrated, preventive care.

ALERT serves more than 5,000 of North Miami’s young adults each year with an integrated roster of preventive services.

For more information on Alert Health and Reaching the Surface, visit Alerthealth.org.

HIV/AIDS Healthcare Desperately Needs Funding in Florida.

By Jarrett Terrill

T

he Obama Administration seems to have a back-log of gay-related legislative issues to tackle. Most recently emerging is the call to increase ADAP funding. ADAP stands for The AIDS Drug Assistance Program – a means for low-income persons to obtain life-saving HIV medications.

Because ADAP funding has remained constant but the number of persons seeking assistance has grown by 25%, there are shortages in coverage. According to Tom Liberti, Chief of the Bureau of HIV/AIDS at the Department of Health in Florida, “the 2011 health care reforms should benefit and help us tremendously but we’re not there yet and we can’t gauge exactly how significant those changes will be.”

Worrisome news is floating around about those states which have introduced an

ADAP waiting list. This is one method of restricting services that the state of Florida will be implementing on June 1. South Carolina, which already had a waiting list for ADAP recipients has been slashing the state’s contributions to the program. The House of Representatives in South Carolina even tried to push a complete cut of all state funding to ADAP but this “solution” to S.C.’s budget problems was denied by the Senate on Tuesday the 26. This would have represented a hostile “drop dead” approach to dealing with HIV/AIDS patients and the pervasive fear is that some legislators in Florida might find that appealing as well.

The example of South Carolina, where people have already died waiting for lifesaving medication is being seen by some as a bellwether for Florida, which cut state contributions by $1 million last year. Liberti disagrees – he says that he “[doesn’t] expect

Jarrett terrill

As Florida Announces ADAP Waiting List, Heat Turns Up on Obama Admin

anyone to go without treatment.”

“There are all kinds of situations in which we would not deny someone their treatment,” says Liberti, “For instance, if you are a pregnant woman or a pediatric/adolescent patient or you’re undergoing chemotherapy.”

Liberti says that “you can’t just look at the fact that someone died while on an ADAP waiting list in another state and draw too many conclusions from something like that. Perhaps they were in advanced stages of the disease or continued on page 7

5

May 31 , 2010 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

Sen. Carl Levin

House Vote Advances End to Ban on Gays in Military

By Jim Abrams

Associated Press Writer WASHINGTON (AP)—The House on Friday passed a defense bill that paves the way for gays to serve openly in the military for the first time, but advocates on both sides geared up for a fight in the Senate.

Normally, defense bills pass by wider margins than Friday’s 229-186 vote, but many Republicans and a few conservative Democrats said they would vote against it because of the gay ban, which was added to the $700 billion bill in a 234-194 vote late Thursday.

House approval of the “don’t ask, don’t tell” repeal was a victory for President Barack Obama, who has pledged to change the policy, and for gay rights groups, who have made it their top priority this year.

The bill would give the Pentagon the rest of the year to study the issue before the repeal would take effect.

Defense Secretary Robert Gates appealed to the military Friday not to be distracted by the political debate over gays in uniform. In an unusual direct address to troops, Gates said he wanted to assure them that their views on the divisive question still matter.

The Senate is expected to take up the defense bill this summer. Supporters likely

will need the votes of 60 of the 100 senators to prevent opponents from blocking it.

And while supportive overall, the White House on Thursday issued a veto threat because the House version includes $485 million for an alternative engine for the new F-35 Joint Strike Fighter.

Gates has sought to eliminate the second engine program, saying it is wasteful. Supporters, in addition to protecting jobs in their districts, say that the competition will save money over the life cycle of the $100 billion project.

The second engine would be built

by General Electric Co. and RollsRoyce in Ohio, Indiana and other states. The main F-35 engine is built in Connecticut by Pratt & Whitney, a division of United Technologies Corp.

Sen. Carl Levin, D-Mich., chairman of the Senate Armed Services Committee and a chief backer of changing the law, said at a news conference Friday most senators support ending the gay ban.

“I believe a majority of the Senate, just like a majority of the country ... favor changing this policy,” he said. “It is a discriminatory policy.”

He predicted that it would be hard for opponents to filibuster the defense bill over the gay rights issue because “there’s so much in here for our troops.” That includes money for security projects in Afghanistan and Pakistan, anti-terrorism programs, billions for new ships, planes and mine-resistant ambush protected vehicles and money for ballistic missile defense. The House bill has a 1.9 percent pay raise for military personnel; the Senate bill 1.4 percent.

Levin’s committee on Thursday approved an amendment repealing “don’t ask, don’t tell” on a 16-12 vote. One Republican, Susan Collins of Maine, voted for it while one Democrat, Jim Webb of Virginia, opposed it.

Webb said he agreed with Gates and the chiefs of the four military services, who have urged Congress to put off votes until after the military review is completed in December.

The House and Senate amendments stipulate that the repeal would not become law until after the study is completed and until the president, the defense secretary and the Joint Chiefs of Staff certify that it will not have negative effects on the military’s fighting ability. The military would also have to first change its rules to comply with the law. .

Rainbow Business Coalition Launches Website and Selects Interim Chairmen Lori Deak and Reece Darham to Lead the Organization

Reece Darham

Lori Deak

By Joey Amato

A

fter months of planning, the Rainbow Business Coalition of Greater Fort Lauderdale (RBC), a group of business owners in the region, has launched their Web site, RainbowBusinessCoalition.com, product of months of research and design.

Tommy Forcella, webmaster of the RBC, highlights the site’s features: “The Web site was designed as an informational tool and will be accessible to RBC members to be used in a business-to-business manner.”

Furthermore, the Web site has a Community Calendar that can be utilized by both members and the general public to post non-profit and educational events benefitting the LGBT community.

In addition to the site launch, Lori Deak of The Pride Factory and Reece Darham of Island City Health & Fitness have been selected as interim co-chairs of the organization. Founders Peter Clark, Jennifer Morales and Terry DeCarlo will now lead the organization’s advisory board.

“We are all proud to have played our part in the development of the RBC. I have been inspired by the leadership and determination of the group thus far in recognizing the potential that exists in Greater Fort Lauderdale’s LGBT business community,” states Clark.

Morales adds: “I am confident that our new leadership team will continue to advance the RBC’s mission for growth and unity.”

The Rainbow Business Coalition is an association of representatives of LGBT businesses and community leaders that serves both resi-

dents and visitors. The primary mission of the Coalition is to unite the LGBT community by leadership and advocacy.

Lori Deak, who initially became involved with RBC earlier this year, is looking forward to challenges that lie ahead.

“I’m very anxious to continue working with all the members of RBC. I sincerely believe that together we will achieve amazing results—far greater than those possible by individual efforts.”

RBC’s priorities include focusing on communications and networking, promoting new business opportunities, driving sustainable economic growth , and expanding market reach and share for the overall benefit of the LGBT community of Greater Fort Lauderdale.

For more information, visit RainbowBusinessCoalition.com.

Mon 9-5, Tues 8-4, Wed 9-4 Thur 9-3, Fri 9-2

6

May 31 , 2010 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com UNDERSTANDING YOUR OPTIONS Our mission is to ensure that all who want and desire a family should be able to avail themselves to the assisted reproductive technologies and its corresponding treatments.

The Surrogacy & Egg Donation Center™ consistently remains on the forefront of assisting single males, gay male couples, single females, and lesbian couples in becoming biological parents. We have helped facilitate hundreds of these arrangements, and we remain committed to helping you achieve your dream of a family.

Find out at the 2nd Annual International

Surrogacy & Egg Donation Seminar at the Four Seasons Miami • July 17 and July 18

Miami • San Diego • Los Angeles

RegisteR now: www.surrogacy-eggDonation.com ...or call 305.913.8638 Surrogate MotherS • Surrogacy agencieS • Surrogate DatabaSe • Surrogacy coStS • gay Surrogacy • geStational Surrogacy • intenDeD ParentS • Surrogate MotherS • egg DonorS

Expert european AUTO Repair SERVICE

t...

I o t n re I t More o M t u We P.So You Gfe It .. Out O

master certified

automotive service excellence

authorized

service

954 - 565 - 2000 PERSONAL SERVICES PersonalAUTOMOTIVE Automotive Service

4031 NE 6th Avenue Oakland Park FL 33334

Providing the Personal Service & Quality Repairs You Deserve - Since 1997

7

May 31 , 2010 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

Just Don’t Call It a ‘Death Panel’ continued from page 4

died from other health complications. They didn’t necessarily die from a lack of treatment.”

When asked if the possibility for discrimination against gay men was a possibility, Liberti didn’t seem to think so. “There is no discrimination in the Florida Department of Health. We have been advocating and caring for people without prejudice for many, many years. I work with a number of gay people in my department,” Liberti affirms. However, there is no official nondiscrimination policy in the department.

“But there are always people who fall through the cracks in situations like this,” says Michael Rajner, South Florida’s leading independent HIV/AIDS advocate. “There are people who can’t make their appointments or don’t have the resources available to them to seek other services that the state provides.”

Some patients feel that the government and its myriad of federal and local agencies are naïve when it comes to understanding how easily they can fall through those cracks.

One anonymous patient says “It’s been difficult to work or do anything else with my life since I spend so much time waiting to fill out forms and apply for various services just to get the medication I need. And what they don’t tell you is that you are punished for missing an appointment by being put on the back burner. We’re also expected to keep perfect records and have all the necessary documentation for everything. It’s a headache to say the least.”

“If any additional funds could help me get my medication faster so I can get back to work,” the patient continues, “then we need to tell Obama, or Congress or whoever that South Florida really needs

those funds… like, yesterday…”

“The biggest problem”, says Rajner, “is that there doesn’t seem to be any method of disseminating information to these patients about what’s going on at the State and National levels. People need to be pro-active and know where to go and what their options are, but the State of Florida and the Department of Health have never set up a channel of communication with patients at the local level. There is a major disconnect there that I’ve been advocating for a solution to.”

“But there are also reasons to keep some optimism,” says Rajner, “there are some really dedicated, caring people who are coming together to find solutions and local AIDS service providers are working extremely hard during this crisis to link individuals in need to medications”.

One such helpful group of locals is the South Florida AIDS Network (SFAN) who will be hosting a special presentation at Holy Cross Hospital on Friday, June 4 at 10AM. Major pharmaceutical companies which provide HIV-related medications will present an alternative for patients to access their necessary medications. This presentation will be open to the public.

Patient Assistance Programs (PAP) When: Friday, June 4, 2010 Time:

10am

Where: Holy Cross Hospital - Auditorium 4725 North Federal Highway Fort Lauderdale, FL 33308 Meeting is open to the public

Sex Scandal Brings Down Anti-Gay G.O.P. Congressman Indiana ‘Family Values’ Evangelical Resigns Amidst Storm of Personal Hypocrisy

By Cliff Dunn

increases in HIV/AIDS funding, and equal employment protections for LGBT persons.

Last November, during a committee sesnnouncing that he “sinned against God, [his] wife, and [his] fam- sion to discuss language for the Domestic ily,” Indiana Congressman Mark Partner Benefits and Obligations Act, which would provide health and Souder resigned his seat other benefits to samein the U.S. House of Repsex partners of federal resentatives on May 18; employees, Souder railed the resignation followed against the legislation. a political storm after his “I do believe that as a admission to having an moral country, as a counextramarital affair. try that was founded on Souder, 59, who had [Christian] values, we been seeking a ninth term have always paid tribute in Congress, disclosed to these values of tradithat he had an extramaritional marriage and that tal affair with a part-time the thrust of this bill, staffer, and said that he which a number of these would leave Congress by amendments have tried the end of last week.

Congressman Mark Souder to address, have high“In the poisonous environment of Washington D.C., any per- lighted what is clearly a deep cultural divide sonal failing is seized upon, often twisted, in this country. And that when it’s thrust at for political gain,” Souder offered in ap- us, we’re going to defend it,” Souder ranted.

The bill passed in the House Oversight parent half-hearted apology to his constituents. “I am resigning rather than to put and Government Reform Committee on a my family through that painful, drawn- party line vote of 23 to 12, but has yet to be voted upon by the full House. out process.”

Souder had faced attacks within his own Souder, an evangelical Christian who was elected to the House in 1994 during Republican Party for his votes in support of the “Republican Revolution,” has scored the bailouts of Wall Street and the auto comzero on every Human Rights Campaign panies. Indiana Governor Mitch Daniels, a (HRC) equality scorecard since he entered Republican, will now decide on setting a Congress, consistently voted against hate- special election to determine who will serve crimes laws, rights for same-sex couples, out the remainder of Souder’s term.

A

DiMillo law offices “We treat you like part of the family!”

•Back Pain

DR. TROY LOMASKY

• Neck Pain

Graduate, New York Chiropractic College

Coast Chiropractic Injury & Wellness Center 954.463.3036

WALK-INS EMERGENCIES

2608 NE 16th Ave., Wilton Manors FL LIC # MM13657

• Auto Accidents • Sports- & WorkRelated Injuries • Pinched Nerves • Headaches • Massage Therapy

Civil Litigation • Administrative Law Misdemeanors • Foreclosure Defense Loan Modification • Small Business Contracts • Wills and Estate Planning

anthony s. DiMillo Attorney at Law 110 S.E. 6th Street Suite 1970 Fort Lauderdale, FL 33301

Anthony@DiMilloLaw.com P: 954.651.9060 F: 954.651.9059

8

May 31 , 2010 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

A worldwide research study is now underway to test an investigational treatment for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease COPD, also known as smoker’s cough, chronic bronchitis, or emphysema.

You may be eligible to participate in this study if you: • Are 40 years of age or older • Have a diagnosis of COPD • Are a current smoker or were a smoker in the past In addition to receiving studyrelated physical exams and laboratory services at no charge, participants will receive study medication and will be monitored by a medical team, including the study physician.

Ask your doctor if this study is right for you.

For information and to schedule an appointment, contact Verne Appleby, R.N. at The Medical Offices of

May 31 , 2010 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

The Frontlines for Gay Rights

9

The Long March

A Former Marine Walks the Walk

By Penn Bullock

L

ast week, Walker Burttschell—an aptlynamed Miami resident—walked 250 miles from Norfolk, Virginia, to Washington D.C. He wasn’t in it for the exercise.

Burttschell made the grueling trek in support of repealing “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell,” the homophobic policy that claimed his military career eight years ago.

Burttschell is the ultimate patriot. On September 12, 2001, he dropped out of college and enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corps— spurred to action by the attack on America.

But his love of country afforded no protection when, a year later, a snooping fellow Marine at his base in North Carolina discovered Burttschell’s secret.

“A friend of one of my roommates was using my computer,” Burttschell recounts.

“Either I had left my email up or he hacked into it. He found an email I’d sent to a boyfriend at the time. When I got back, [the Marine] threatened to out me to my commanding officer and also to my family.”

Burttschell went into a tailspin: “I became really depressed and I was hospitalized a few weeks later… I thought I was at a safe place at the hospital because most guys in the Navy are pretty gay,” he laughs. “But no,

I mean, really—a lot of people that work in the hospitals in the Navy are pretty open about their sexuality. And then I confided in my psychiatrist.”

That was a mis­take. The psychiatrist reported Burttschell’s coming-out to his commanding officer. That Burttschell had pledged his life to America a day after the 9/11 attacks made no difference to the military. He was honorably discharged for being gay.

Burtschell, who grew up on Florida’s Panhandle, is now a real-estate developer in Miami. He spoke to SFGN on his walk last Tuesday, just days before Congress voted to strike down “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell.”

The former Marine threw himself into activism with the Human Rights Campaign two months ago, as the repeal neared. Criss-crossing the state, he lobbied Florida Senator Bill Nelson. “We had reached out to Nelson every way we could. I wasn’t getting the answer I wanted to hear… Between him and Senator Jim Webb of Virigina, we need two votes to pass this and those are our best shots.”

So Burttschell turned his attention to Webb. An idea came to him: “I thought if I walked through Virginia on to D.C., I could gather Virginia veterans and meet with Webb’s office throughout his state. Try to motivate him to vote in our favor.”

Arriving in Virginia on May 19, Burttschell says he was apprehensive of the state’s conservatism.

“The first day people were like, ‘What are you doing?’ I had a military pack on and they thought I was training,” he says. “I told them I was walking to D.C. They would just at look at me like, ‘You’re crazy.’ And then I’d tell them why—that I’m going up there to ask Senator Webb to support the repeal of ‘Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell.’”

The reaction surprised him. “They were super-excited and ecstatic about my doing

it. That evening, it was all over the news in Virginia. That night, people started recognizing me on the street. People would blow their horn and wave and pull over and shake my hand. Not one person has said anything bad. Not one person has come out against it. Since last Thursday to now, it’s been 100% support. Not one single incident of anyone being rude or nasty.”

Last Wednesday, after meetings with Webb staffers and a week of walking through small towns and along railroad tracks and highways, Burttschell and a fellow walker, Jarrod Chlapowski, a former Army specialist also discharged for being gay, arrived in

Washington and met with U.S. Rep. Ileana Ros-Lehtinen (R-Miami). A day later, the House voted to repeal “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell,” and the Senate followed suit. Senator Nelson voted aye; but Senator Webb, whom Burttschell had tried to so hard to win over, became the only Democrat to vote no. And the repeal is not a final victory. The president and the Pentagon will have to approve it later this year.

For Burttschell and the estimated 13,000 service members expelled under “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell,” the repeal comes as a longawaited, late-arriving justice—but justice nonetheless.

Malawi Couple Pardoned President Calls for Release, but Says Homosexuality Still Illegal

By Joey Amato

O

n Saturday, May 29, Malawi president Bingu wa Mutharika pardoned a gay couple who had been sentenced to 14 years in prison and ordered their release. Remaining stern to his belief, Mutharika insisted that homosexuality was still illegal in the conservative African nation.

Tiwonge Chimbalanga and Steven Monjeza were pardoned on “humanitarian grounds only” during a press conference with U.N. Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon in the Malawi capital of Lilongwe.

“These boys committed a crime against our culture, against our religion, and against our laws,” Mutharika said. “However, as head of state, I hereby pardon them and therefore order their immediate release without any conditions.”

Mutharika added, “We don’t condone marriages of this nature. It’s unheard of in Malawi and it’s illegal.”

Malawi had faced international condemnation for the conviction and harsh sentencing of Chimbalanga and Monjeza, who were arrested in December, a day after celebrating

their engagement.

After the pardon, activists were searching for a safe house for the couple, fearing they could be attacked upon release.

U.N. Secretary-General Ban praised Mutharika’s decision but said “laws that criminalize sexuality should be repealed.”

White House spokesman Robert Gibbs also praised the move, urging an end to “the persecution and criminalization” of sexual orientation and gender identity.

Earlier this week, the top U.N. AIDS official and the head of an international donor organization met with Mutharika and expressed concern that criminalizing homosexuality would keep a vulnerable group from seeking AIDS treatment.

Human Rights Watch representative Joseph Amon said the president was responding to the international outcry.

“I hope that other leaders of African countries with anti-gay laws see that this is just not acceptable in the international community,” Amon told The Associated Press by telephone from New York.

Malawi is among 37 African countries with anti-gay laws.

10

May 31 , 2010 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

Trends

Formspring: Social Networking, Taliban-Style

By Cliff Dunn

I

n the virtual universe that is the Internet, it’s the equivalent of a bathroom wall, with all the taste and concern for social convention associated with that venerable institution. It’s also anonymous.

One of the newer social networking sites online, Formspring has grown to become a clearinghouse for opinions, insults and other public verbal flaying for Generation Next.

For the most part, Formspring is simply the most recent place for teens and others to chill and dish the dirt: something kids—and everyone else—have done since time out of mind.

Still new enough that it hasn’t fallen under the scrutiny of many parents and educators, the site has become Ground Zero for thousands of teenagers and their comments over the past few months.

Like other social networking sites, users set up a Formspring account, which they can link to their Twitter, Facebook, or Tumblr accounts; young people can then invite their friends to post comments or ask ques-

Al Cicotte & Kevin Palombo American Tax & Insurance Services 2881 E. Oakland Park Blvd., Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33306

tions. But the anonymity of posters means that the conversation is often raw.

Comments are sent to a private mailbox.

Only comments that are answered get posted publicly. Many who view the posts are teenagers who haven’t set up their own Formspring accounts, but want to check their friends’ pages to see if they are mentioned.

Although users have the option to not accept anonymous comments or questions, most young people apparently choose to accept them. Some Formspring users say the negative comments are what drive them to the site.

The site went online in late November.

Over 28 million people visit the site each month, 14 million of those in the U.S. Formspring was started in Indianapolis by John Wechsler and Ade Olonoh. It recently raised $2.5 million and relocated to San Francisco. According to the company, over three million questions have been asked and answered on its site. Olonoh told The New York Times that the company does not know what percentage of its users are teenagers.

For more information, visit Formspring.me

“The safe return of your money is our top priority”

Guaranteed Return Fixed Annuity 1st Year BONUS Interest Rate

10.00%

954.302.3228 Rates effective 03/19/10 subject to change.

Minimum deposit $5,000.

Company rated A+ Superior by A.M. Best.

• 10% Interest bonus added to all 1st, 2nd & 3rd year deposits • Principal & interest guaranteed • No up-front fees or charges • Interest grows tax deferred • Interest available monthly • Representing 60 top rated companies

May 31 , 2010 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

Obama to GetEqual: ‘Get a Newspaper’

By Jarrett Terrill

he should also “pick up a newspaper.”

The admonishment was a sharp criticism etEqual—the gay activist net- at the way GetEqual has seemingly ignored work that has been chaining the members of congress who are against themselves to fences, interrupt- repeal of DADT in favor of more outlandish ing press conferences and being a general protests and yelling against those in governsort of thorn in the side of the Obama ment who do, in fact, support the repeal of administration—has finally earned them- Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell.

One such member of Congress that GetEqual has not given as much of their attention to is Senator John McCain. According to a recent call-to-action blog post by local politico Ron Mills, “John McCain will without a doubt support an unprecedented filibuster of the entire defense budget to stop the repeal of DADT if the bill comes to the floor of the full Senate.”

“It gets worse,” Mills continues, “According to the New York Times, McCain also solicited letters from the Joint Chiefs of Staff—the chiefs of the Army, Navy, Air Force and Marines—that object to the repeal amendment supported Kip Williams

by President Obama, Defense selves a terse response from the Com- Secretary Robert Gates and Joint Chiefs Chairman Mike Mullen.” mander in Chief.

GetEqual’s website makes no mention of Kip Williams, a co-founder of GetEqual, has come a long way since writing about John McCain but repeatedly asks the LGBT gay characters in his favorite soap opera for community to join them in protesting President Obama and Nancy Pelosi. the Huffington Post.

If you would like to call Williams tends to operate Williams was arrested for your Senator and ask them under the false belief that shouting at President Obama to support the Repeal President Obama can end during a speech in San FranAmendment against DADT with a stroke of his cisco on Wednesday. Obama DADT, the number to do pen. “President Obama has was trying to raise funds for that is: the power to act NOW to Barbara Boxer but Williams Senate Switchboard: end discharges of lesbian and was trying to protest the (202) 224-3121 gay servicemembers,” his rePresident’s perceived inaccent press release exclaims. tion on repealing Don’t Ask, If you would like to email GetEqual and tell them But this is exactly the Don’t Tell. to “get a newspaper”, the sort of naïveté that PresiBut Kip wasn’t just aremail address to do that is: dent Obama was referring rested, he was also publicly to when he heckled Wilshamed by the President info@getEqual.org liams because it negates the and told that he should “buy a ticket to go demonstrate against somebody fact that DADT was an act of Congress and who doesn’t share his point of view” and that not an Executive Order.

G

11

12

May 31 , 2010 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

Franken Applauded by ACLU and GLSEN Introduces Student Non-Discrimination Act

By Jarrett Terrill

G

LSEN (The Gay and Lesbian Student Education Network) and the ACLU (American Civil Liberties Union) both welcome the introduction of the Student Non-Discrimination Act by Senator Al Franken and 22 co-sponsors as an important step toward ensuring that all students are valued and respected and can learn in an environment free from harassment and discrimination.

The Senate version is a companion bill to H.R. 4530, introduced by Rep. Jared Polis in the House early this year, which would prohibit discrimination in schools on the basis of sexual orientation and gender identity/ expression. Rep. Polis’s bill currently has the support of over 100 representatives.

“The Student Non-Discrimination Act is an answer to a persistent problem,” says Laura Murphy, Director of the ACLU Washington Legislative Office. “As we have seen recently in Constance McMillen’s case, LGBT students continue to face harassment and intolerance every day. Under the Student Non-Discrimination Act, McMillen and LGBT students like her would have a

federal statute to protect them. Our public schools should be a safe harbor for our students, not a place of exclusion and ridicule. The Student Non-Discrimination Act will go a long way toward protecting our students and will promote both equality in schools and a safer learning environment.

We urge the both the House and Senate to make this bill a priority.”

“GLSEN thanks Senator Franken and SNDA’s 22 Senate cosponsors for making a commitment to ensuring that LGBT students can learn without the fear of being discriminated against simply for who they are,” GLSEN Executive Director Eliza Byard said.

“SNDA will send a clear message to schools that they must address the hostile environment many LGBT students face in schools.”

Nearly 9 out of 10 LGBT students (86.2%) experience harassment at school because of their sexual orientation, and 60.8% feel unsafe at school because of their sexual orientation, according to GLSEN’s 2007 National School Climate Survey.

The harassment clearly affects students’ ability to learn. A third of LGBT students (32.7%) missed a day of school in the past month because of feeling unsafe, five times

dren under the law.”

The ACLU is currently involved in a case that underscores the need for the SNDA. In April, the ACLU filed a complaint with the Itawamba County School District in Fulton, Mississippi urging the school district to reverse its decision to forbid a lesbian student from attending a prom with her girlfriend and from wearing a tuxedo to the prom. After school Senator Al Franken (D) officials canceled the higher than a national sample of all students. prom altogether rather than allow Con“It’s time that we extend the protections stance McMillen to attend the dance in a of our nations’ civil right laws to lesbian, tuxedo with her girlfriend, the ACLU then gay, bisexual and transgender students filed a federal lawsuit. In a preliminary rulacross the country,” Franken said. “No stu- ing in April, the court found that Itawamba dent should be subjected to the ridicule and County School District officials violated physical violence that LGBT students so McMillen’s First Amendment right to freeoften experience in school. It’s time we de- dom of expression, and the case is expected manded equal treatment for all of our chil- to go to trial.

Testimony: Equality on Trial

By A. Sebastian Fortino

O

n May 13 in San Francisco, the Courage Campaign launched Testimony: Equality on Trial, which takes transcripts from the Perry v. Schwarzenegger and stages them. This comes as the Proposition 8 trial in California prepares its final arguments on June 16.

“The historic federal trial over Prop 8 has already destroyed the lies and hollow arguments used to deceive voters into taking away basic freedoms from their neighbors,” said Rick Jacobs, Founder and Chair of the Courage Campaign.

Testimony is supported by the California chapter of the Southern Christian Leadership Conference (SCLC), the Mexican American Legal Defense and Educational

Marisa Tomei

Fund (MALDEF), Academy award winning actress and friend to the LGBT community Marisa Tomei, and former Republican congressman Michael Huffington.

“The event began with SCLC president Rev. Eric Lee, who gave a stirring oration about the need for religious institutions to support equality or remain silent on the subject,” Jacobs told SFGN. On Union Square the reenactments began, with the testimony of Ryan Kendall.

Passersby stopped to watch what was a very moving, tearful defense of our right to marry.

In addition to the San Francisco reenactment; North Carolina, Wisconsin, New Mexico, Texas, and New York all staged their own reenactments. So far, 30 reenactments are scheduled on the groups website.

“By merging time-honored organizing tactics and cutting-edge technology, Testimony will bring the heart of this trial—the essence of fairness and decency—out of the courtroom and into the public square,” said Cleve Jones, a close friend of the late Harvey Milk and founder of the Aids Memorial Quilt. His choice of words surely, knowingly echoes Milk’s battle cry of, “Out of the closet and into the streets.”

The Testimony phase, described by the group as “Guerilla Theater” seeks to invite all Americans to share their stories of prejudice or joy into the public arena. Jacobs hopes it will “change minds in this country among average people as well as the elected and appointed leaders.”

Even Laura Bush, perhaps an unlikely advocate for equality in marriage, has now implied that equality is inevitable. The efforts to stop it are cynical and based on fanning the flames of prejudice.

For more information please visit Couragecampaign.org

13

May 31 , 2010 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

Dreaming of a new home?

Wilton Manors

Just Listed

Ideal location! Impressive 4 beautiful bedroom 3 bath home $199,000

Here is your pool home in Coral Ridge! Well maintained 3/3 nicely landscaped! $549,000

Wilton Manors

Fort Lauderdale

You’ll love this new 3/3.5 townhouse Palm Island Villas pool, courtyards & more! $275,000

The Tower at Port Royale Enjoy the views! Gated community.

Ammenities galore! $165,000

Protection.

Financial protection begins with a plan.

Call us for a complimentary consultation.

Daniel M. Pye

Vice President Wealth Management, MSSB 2400 E. Commercial Blvd. Suite 1200

Direct: 954-267-5683 Daniel.Pye@MSSB.com

Fort LauderdaLe | WiLton Manors | LauderdaLe BeaCh GaLt oCean MiLe | West PaLM BeaCh | Port st. LuiCe

954.465.4991 John Castelli

Jason Johnson

full listings @

WWW.CASTELLIHOMES.COM

While financial planning is important to anyone, for gay and lesbians and their partners, it can be crucial.

We at Morgan Stanley innately understand your needs, and can help you develop a plan that works for you. > Protect yourself, your partner, your family and/or business > Take advantage of a thorough financial plan > Develop a strategy based on your specific goals ©2009 Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC. Member SIPC.

14

May 31 , 2010 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

SFGN Editorial 5/31/2010 Norm Kent, Publisher

Leonard Matlovich: The Original Dan Choi

H

e was first of all, a soldier, on the battlefield in Vietnam, and then in the battle for gay civil rights in America.

In the 1970’s, my friend Leonard Matlovich was perhaps the best-known openly gay man in America next to Harvey Milk.

His fight to stay in the United States Air Force after coming out of the closet became a cause célèbre around which the gay community rallied. His case resulted in articles in newspapers and magazines throughout the country, numerous television interviews, and a television movie on NBC. His photograph appeared on the cover of the September 8, 1975, issue of Time magazine, making him a symbol for thousands of gay and lesbian service members and the gay community in general.

During his September 1975 administrative discharge hearing, an Air Force attorney asked him if he would sign a document pledging to “never practice homosexuality again” in exchange for being allowed to remain in the Air Force. Matlovich refused.

Despite his exemplary military record, tours of duty in Vietnam, and high performance

evaluations, the panel ruled Matlovich unfit for service and he was recommended for a General, or Less than Honorable, discharge.

The base commander recommended that it be upgraded to Honorable and the Secretary of the Air Force agreed, confirming Matlovich’s discharge in October 1975.

Matlovich stayed the course, and was here in Miami in June of 1977 when Anita Bryant was beating us down. He was repeatedly called upon by gay groups also challenging John Briggs’ attempt to ban gay teachers in California. Sometimes he was criticized by individuals more to the left than he had become. “I think many gays are forced into liberal camps only because that’s where they can find the kind of support they need to function in society” Matlovich once noted.

Yes, we proudly celebrated Dan Choi’s courage in chaining himself to the White House fence earlier this year, but look at the picture on this page of Leonard Matlovich in handcuffs, protesting President Reagan’s neglect of AIDS patients in the 1980’s. Matlovich himself would die of the disease in 1988, only 44 years old.

A unique man, persistent and provident,

Matlovich personally designed his internationally known tombstone, incorporating the same kind of reflective granite that was used in the construction of the historic Vietnam Veterans Memorial Wall in D.C. The stone does not bear his name, inset instead with pink triangles referencing the emblem used to mark gays in Nazi concentration. Matlovich’s last name is inscribed at the foot of the border. It was to be the only indication that the grave was his. He wanted the stone itself to serve as a memorial to all gay veterans, and so it has been, marked by a quote that sends chills down your spine: It reads, “When I was in the military, they gave me a medal for killing two men and a discharge for loving one.”

Ironically, Matlovich’s tombstone in the Congressional Cemetery is on the same row as that of FBI Director J. Edgar Hoover.

In a tribute no one anticipated, a growing number of other out gays, including veterans, have since chosen to be buried

in the same once obscure graveyard. And at his graveside every Veterans Day, Capt.

Mike Rankin USN (RET) conducts a memorial service for all gay veterans who have passed—just as Leonard dreamed.

Leonard Matlovich, a true gay American hero.

Addressing a Gay Pride Week rally in New York in June of 1975, Matlovich broke down and cried. Said he years later: “I found myself, little nobody me, standing up in front of tens of thousands of gay people. And just two years ago I thought I was the only gay in the world. It was a mixture of joy and sadness. It was just great pride to be an American, to know I’m oppressed but able to stand up there and say so. They were very beautiful people out there.”

15

May 31 , 2010 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

GENERAL GAYETY

A Well-Earned Comeuppance

By Leslie Robinson

S

ince entering Congress in 1994, Indiana Republican Mark Souder focused on changing America’s moral direction.

Now we know whose moral direction got changed.

The eight-term congressman, a pillar of family values, recently resigned his seat, saying that he had “sinned against God, my wife and my family by having a mutual relationship with a part-time member of my staff.”

Why did he bother to say she’s part-time?

Does that make it only a part-time sin?

Souder’s paramour, Tracy Meadows Jackson, is also married. The affair started after she joined Souder’s district staff in 2004.

Jackson hosted audio and video productions that featured the congressman discussing conservative concerns.

A video in which Souder sounds off about a 2008 House hearing on abstinence education became a YouTube hit following his con-

fession. The congressman and his mistress made a pro-abstinence video. If I’d made that up, you wouldn’t have bought it.

In the past, noted The Wall Street Journal, Souder has said that he’s “most defined by the fact that I’m an evangelical Christian.” As a staunch social conservative, Souder made George W. Bush look like a hippie.

In a 2004 PBS interview, Souder said, “I believe people can have a propensity to alcoholism. I believe they can have a propensity to look at pornography on [the] Internet. I believe they can have a propensity to be homosexual. But I believe that it’s wrong and it’s controllable.”

I believe I’m glad he’s gone.

Two weeks before his fall from grace, Souder won his primary race. In a campaign radio ad, he trumpeted his efforts to prevent Hoosier schools from being forced to employ “transvestite teachers.”

Paul Gallotta

Let It Bleed

N

o one wakes up in the morning and thinks ‘What a great day to wrap my car around a utility pole.’ When was the last time you composed a ‘to do’ list that read ‘Go to the gym, pick up dry cleaning, have a massive cerebral hemorrhage, record ‘Jersey Shore.’

No one leaves their home in the morning thinking they’ll end the day on a gurney in an emergency room. But shift happens.

Over 70 percent of the people reading this will need someone else’s blood at some point in their lives. No one likes to think about the possibility that someday they’ll need an emergency transfusion, and that when that moment occurs, there might not be any blood available.

Even in the best of times, there’s always a shortage of blood. And this ain’t the best of times. Synthetic blood has yet to be per-

fected; scientists have yet to replicate hemoglobin, the oxygen-carrying component of blood. So for now, we’re stuck utilizing the limited resources available, i.e. volume expanders like 0.9% normal saline which can prevent hypovolemic shock or dehydration, but won’t do much else, or blood donors.

Back in 1983, the Food and Drug Administration enacted a “deferment” on blood donations from any man who admits to having had sex with another man since 1977. The ban was an attempt to forestall the spread of the then little-known Human Immunodeficiency Virus. At the time, somewhere between 10,000 to 15,000 people, mostly hemophiliacs, were exposed to tainted blood products because there was no foolproof way to screen the supply.

Last month 18 Senators (17 Democrats, one independent--Bernard Sanders from

Fanning the family-values fires in Fort Wayne. Phooey.

In committee, Souder led the opposition against the Employment Non-Discrimination Act (ENDA) of 2007, declaring, “In their quest to grant special rights to homosexuals, Democrats are trampling on the religious freedoms of all Americans.”

Souder said he has gay friends—and a masochistic bunch they must be--but be-

The other morality: Tracy Jackson

cause of the clarity of the Bible on homosexuality, “there just isn’t much room to compromise.”

So where in the Bible does it say thou shalt diddle thy part-time staffer?

With such hard-line views and votes, the self-described “ultra-conservative” has taken an ultra fall.

“I think the people who get treated the Vermont) sent a letter to the FDA to consider replacing the ban with the same deferral policy that applies to “at risk” heterosexuals— people could donate blood if they hadn’t had sex with a man in the past 12 months.

Don’t snicker, it’s progress.

“Healthy blood donors are turned away ever day due to an antiquated policy,” stated Senator John Kerry (D-Mass) in the letter to Food and Drug Administration Commissioner Margaret Hamburg. “We live in a

worst are the ones who preach the most, are the most pious. Nobody loves a hypocrite,” said Rutgers University political science professor Ross Baker to The Associated Press.

Said Baker, “There are some people who have kind of a malicious delight at a downfall like that.”

Guilty.

Okay, I might not be delighted but I certainly am pleased by Mark Souder’s collapse.

The reason is simple: He made it his life’s work to keep me and mine second-class or lower. He thumped that Bible and his breast and insisted he walked with God while others of us walked with Bozo.

Apparently LGBT people aren’t the only ones fed up with politicians like Souder.

“There is a growing intolerance for hypocritical behavior,” political expert Andrew Downs told The Indianapolis Star. “If you want to run as a pro-family candidate, don’t have an affair.”

Six months ago Souder and Jackson were caught in a parked car in a nature preserve, the former congressman told the Fort Wayne Journal Gazette. “Subconsciously, was I wanting to get caught? Or was God so frustrated with me he said, ‘I’ve had it. You’re so stupid here I’m going to, in effect, out you.’”

God “outed” the adamantly anti-gay congressman. God has a wicked sense of humor. very different country than we did in 1983.”

New York City’s Gay Men’s Health Crisis, one of the country’s oldest and largest AIDS Service Organizations issued a statement paper citing that with modern technology, the risk of issuing contaminated blood is virtually non-existent. According to the Centers for Disease Control, the last known case of transfusion transmission occurred in 2002, a year in which there were over 13.5 million transfusions.

“We don’t want to increase the risk to the nation’s blood supply,” explained Joseph Wardenski, the author of GMHC’s report. “We would like to reduce discrimination and we would like a blood donor pool that’s large enough to ensure that there’s a safe and sufficient blood supply, particularly in times of emergency.”

Most blood banks, The continued on page 19

16

May 31 , 2010 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

Off the Wall

Dreaming of the Azzurri

By Piero Guidugli

Bill Shankly, a Scottish coach, once said : “Some people believe soccer is a matter of life and death. I can assure you it is much, much more important than that.”

B

y the time this column goes to print there will be approximately three weeks left before the 2010 FIFA WORLD CUP kicks off on June 11.The single biggest sporting event on earth.

More than 715 million people watched the final game in 2006.

That’s almost ten times the number that watched the Super Bowl that same year.

Two hundred and four nations tried to qualify for one of the thirty two spots in the final round.

Consider this: there are 192 countries in the United Nations.

Only the US stubbornly refuses to embrace the Beautiful Game.

When World Cup Soccer starts, world-wide productivity stalls. From Lisbon to Tokyo workers begin calling in sick. The epidemic is often referred to as the World Cup Flu. Imagine the Super Bowl and the World Series played on a weekday afternoon, every day for a month. The WC goes beyond sports. During these thirty days, it’s an allconsuming affair for the fans.

It takes the form of a ‘lingua franca’ or a global religion. I’m one of those worshipping loonies.

I remember when The Azzurri (Italy’s nickname because of their legendary sky

blue shirts) lost the 1970 final to Brazil in Mexico City, I was crushed, ashamed; a shattered teenager on the verge of tears. The feeling was total devastation. My friends, me, we were all silent, saddened. It was truly as if someone had died- a personal and national tragedy.

O ver 25 Years of Service

1600 So. Federal Highway #801 Pompano Beach, FL 33062 Telephone: 954.946.0916 Fax: 954.782.3909 E-mail: sjerome_Esq@Bellsouth.net

For the first time in its history, this year the WC will be held on the African Continent. South Africa is the host country. New roads, stadiums, infrastructures, hotels, airports have been built, to the tune of $ 4.6 billion, in preparation for the biggest welcoming party on the planet.

“The Rainbow Nation”, as Archbishop Tutu calls it, is ready for the big event.

South Africa is the first country hosting a World Cup where gay marriage is legal and sanctioned by its young constitution. That’s small consolation, however, on a continent where homosexuals are persecuted, jailed and often executed. In Africa, homosexuality is illegal in at least 37 countries out of 54, from Egypt to Uganda to Nigeria to Malawi.

Africa’s gays are caught in the ideological battle waged in the U.S.by conservative Christian preachers who, through their extensive African communications networks, warn of the dangers posed by homosexuals and present themselves as the true stewards of US Evangelicalism. They feel most of the western world has discarded their anti-gay rhetoric and are therefore seeking fertile new soil to spread their crusades of hate.

As much as I love the game I also know that, like all other major team sports, it has its own homophobic undercurrents. FIFA, the governing body of world soccer, is dragging its heels in tackling homophobia.

As in American sports, there is a very poor record of tolerating openly gay players. Several true stories of gay male athletes have been collected in the book “Jocks” by Dan Woog. Otherwise, there is a complete lack of willingness to tell the gay athletes’ side. Also, sports has their own unwritten “don’t ask, don’t tell” policy. There is also a lack of courage on the parts of the athletes themselves to come out of the closet. Teams are alpha-male dominated and players do not want to show any signs of what is perceived as a “weakness”.

Justin Fashanu, who killed himself in 1998, is the only prominent professional soccer player to have come out and endure viral homophobic abuse from the opposing terraces.

WORLD CUP WINNERS; 5 times Brazil : 1958 -62 -70 - 94 - 02.

4 times Italy : 1934 - 38- 82 -06 3 times Germany : 1954 - 74 - 90 2 times Argentina : 1978 - 86 Uruguay : 1930 - 50 1 time England : 1966 France : 1998

Slowly but surely things are changing.

Two years ago The Justin Fashanu Campaign was founded in his hometown, Norwich CityEngland, to fight homophobia in soccer.

They have been joined by ‘Kick It Out’ and The Gay Football Supporters Network in petitioning FIFA, to institute, among other things, sanctions for clubs that fail to tackle homophobia in their stands or their boardrooms. While attitudes have changed and gays have been accepted in just about every facet of European life the fact that no other professional player has come out shows there is still a lot of work to be done.

Sadly soccer is still in the dark ages and homophobia remains an ugly stain on the Beautiful Game.

Sports have a big impact on the mindset of others.The majority of fans at matches will continue to hear - and some engage in -anti-gay abuse. Now, at last, groups like ‘Kick it Out’ are starting to mobilize and they are becoming a vocal movement. Whereas in the past homophobia was also in the closet, now it is being spoken about. It is small comfort for sure but it is a step in the right direction.

In the meantime the show must go on.

Come June 11, I’m taking off from work, I’m taking off from activism, I will not answer the phone or tweet, and my social and personal life will be put on hold until the winner lifts the cup on July 11.

Italy, my Azzurri, are the reigning world champions. It will be extremely difficult to retain the title and win a fifth one but let me dream for a few more weeks or until they are eliminated.

If and when that happens don’t talk to me, don’t call me, don’t come looking for me- unless you have an extra large supply of Xanax in your gay bag and a Blue Ray copy of “Bend it Like Beckham.”

17

May 31 , 2010 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

Greg Walker Providing Dynamic IT Solutions to Companies in Need

By Joey Amato

A

nn Arbor, Michigan native Greg Walker is one of a series of young IT professionals taking South Flo­ rida by storm. Walker, who incorporated his business as a teenager, is as busy as ever and is looking to expand his company over the next year, a rare occurrence in a recession.

Walker was studying business management and entrepreneurship at Eastern Michigan University when he was forced to dropout to meet the demand of his growing business, Dynamix United Solutions. “I’ve maintained some clients for over 10 years,” Walker proudly states.

Currently based in Wilton Manors, Dynamix targets small to midsize businesses in the manufacturing, legal, and publishing industries, among others. In today’s virtual society, Walker’s company offers customers a clear solution. “We create a network around

the needs of each individual business and not the physical office,” states Walker.

Dynamix, which currently employs 8 individuals, was founded by Walker because he realized businesses were struggling to deal with multiple vendors for their IT solutions. “We deal with the entire picture.” Dynamix connects computer, phone, email, and special applications in one network. The company, which has grown mostly by word-of-mouth, plans to hire additional technicians and sales people later this year.

With plans to open offices in San Francisco and Washington D.C., Walker is confident in the future of his company. “We already have clients in these locations, so it makes sense to have a presence there as well. Additionally, we tend to work with companies which have multiple office locations, whether locally or nationally.”

Dan Pye on retirement

Retirement…

Review Your Risks Dan Pye is Vice President at Morgan Stanley

D

id you know that if you have a detached garage or other structure on your property it might not be covered by your homeowner’s insurance policy? Did you know that average damages for negligence are a few million dollars? In relation to this, there is no law that says jury awards must have a cap at your net worth.

Therefore, the Question now is, have you and/or your partner factored these types of events into your plan. Without separate safeguards in place, your exposure to risk can leave you with a mountain of expenses that could jeopardize your retirement plans.

Remember a priority in retirement is plan-

ning for the unexpected.

Risk management and insurance goes way beyond determining if you have adequate life insurance or disability insurance through your employer. Chances are there are other areas in your life that you may have exposure to but do not even know it. I will now discuss some of these potential risks.

Longevity Risk—what if you only have enough resources to get you to a certain age and you out live your money. Proper planning for your income in retirement can avoid this.

Inflation Risk—inflation has significant impacts on spending. The value of the dollar through inflation will continue to de-

Greg Walker

Walker treasures his company’s dedication to providing superior customer service. “If a company is in need of assistance, Dynamix can access their internal computer systems in less than 60 seconds. Dynamix is dedi-

cline. Selecting appropriate investment choices to minimize the effects of inflation risk will preserve you purchasing power over time.

Market Risk— the first few years of retirement, when you are no longer earning, but are now relying on your investments for your income, can make or break your plans.

Those who retire into a bear market that do not have their assets sequenced may never be able to recover.

Health Care Cost— according to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, National Clearing House for Long Term Care Information, as of 2008 over 70% of people over age 65 will need some type of long-term care. Annual costs for longterm care are on the rise and average over

cated to providing reliable, highly effective, and up-to-date services at an affordable cost.”

In addition, the organization combines advanced technology, innovative design, and industry-leading talent to create web applications that provide clients with an impressive online presence. “We are also trained in many areas of infrastructure expertise and LAN/WAN solutions that will cater around your business’s needs. From start to finish, we can provide your system with the setup, planning, and support that it needs to ensure your company’s success,” Walker said.

When he is not busy at work, you may find Walker at the gym, enjoying Fort Lauderdale’s spectacular beaches or dining at Todd English’s fabulous restaurant, da Campo Osteria, located inside il Lugano hotel.

For further information on Walker, please visit Dynamixunified.com.

100,000 dollars a year now. If not addressed in your plan now, this can have a devastating effect on your retirement.

Family Responsibilities—Many “baby

boomers” are part of the “sandwich generation”. They are taking care of their own children, as well as providing care for their own parents. This can be a huge burden. There are several products and strategies that can help minimize your out of pocket costs and allow you to use these funds in retirement.

Part of my job as a wealth advisor is to help my clients identify and review their risk exposures. Please make sure that who ever you work with understands your risks and the solutions for them.

SFGN_qtr_pg

18

5/20/10

11:27 AM

Page 1

Miami-Dade Gay & Lesbian Chamber of Commerce Proudly Presents

May 31 , 2010 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

NCE

IN A BLUE MOON — A VERY SPECIAL EVENING.

THE

THE 9TH ANNUAL GALA AWA R D S C E L E B R AT I O N

HILTON MIAMI DOWNTOWN HOTEL 1601 BISCAYNE BOULEVARD, MIAM I

Saturday June 26, 2010

TICKETS, $95 | VIP TABLES/10, $1500*

SUGGESTED ATTIRE:

T H I S

TO ORDER: CALL 305.673.4440 OR EMAIL TO

A Shade of Blue Y E A R ’ S

A W A R D

AT&T

Business of the Year Award Morgans Hotel Group Hilton Miami Downtown

Non-Profit Organization of the Year Award

Wachovia

(A Wells Fargo Company)

Steve Rothaus

Grey Goose

(A Bacardi Brand)

Blue Diamond Award

presenting sponsors

GREY GOOSE VODKA, A BACARDI BRAND

A Not-For-Profit Corporation

R E C I P I E N T S

Business Person of the Year Award

Safe Schools South Florida produced by

mdglcc@bellsouth.net

* Complimentary valet parking for VIP Tables of 10

George Neary royal blue sponsors

TIFFANY & CO. fvr-group.com

The only gay-owned and operated stone & tile superstore in South Florida!

19

May 31 , 2010 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

Tony Adams

The Fairy Tale Life of Charles L. Ross

C

harles L. Ross is the innovative art director responsible for the current style and texture of highend shelter magazines. Even though he has been retired for many years, when you thumb through Architectural Digest or Veranda, Chuck Ross is the man you should thank for the look and feel of your dreams of more stately mansions. I visited the dazzling Charles L. Ross Gallery in Fort Lauderdale’s Stonewall Library to interview the rather private man who created, endowed and now directs it, but Chuck Ross had his own vision of our time together. He sat me down for a master class in the conception and design of a life in commercial art. Take notes, all you young and aspiring graphic artists and designers.

Chuck Ross did not know what he wanted to be while growing up in Michigan. Looking through the catalogue of the University of Michigan, he circled psychiatry and art. He chose art because it did not require the expense of medical school. “After graduation, I went into advertising even though I hated it because

I didn’t want to be poor. I grew up poor.”

Doing his research, making a selection and solving a problem became a successfully repeated pattern for Chuck Ross throughout his life.

His first job was at an art studio in Michigan. Ad agencies would bring their concepts to the studio where the artists translated them into pictures. One client, Dow Pharmaceuticals, needed a campaign for a medication to treat violent schizophrenics. Chuck was one of the artists chosen to prepare an ad using an animal in the workout of the concept. “I was given fish as my animal. I drew a fish with fangs and paisley instead of scales. They gave the drawings to psychiatrists for review before final selection. We were sitting in the back of the room when the Dow people asked them ‘Could you tell us about the artist who drew this fish?’ One said ‘This person is nonviolent but a latent homosexual.’ I shouted ‘There ain’t nothing latent about me!’”

Chuck went to San Francisco for a vacation. He returned home to find that his agency had folded. “I had loved San Fran-

Paul Gallotta continued from page 15

American Red Cross, America’s Blood Centers and The AABB (formerly known as the American Association of Blood Banks) all are amenable to lifting the ban. Two years ago, the American Medical Association agreed. In fact the major road block comes in the form of the hemophiliac lobby.

According to World Federation of Hemophilia President Mark Skinner, “One hundred percent of the risk is borne by the recipient” and none by the donor.

Himself a person living with AIDs contracted through a contaminated transfusion, Skinner accepts that donor deferral measures are in fact discriminatory. But he also notes that the ban was grounded in science, not the demagoguery that was so prevalent back in the Reagan era. He also points out that gay and bisexual men still constitute the largest number of new HIV infections and continue to have higher than

average rates for other STD infections including syphilis and Hepatitis B. In this issue both sides have the moral high ground. A blanket ban on gay and bisexual men (lesbians get to sit this one out) is prejudicial and punitive. But lifting the ban on this basis alone would be a mistake.

According to one computer model from an FDA workshop conducted by Dr Andrew l. Dayton in March of 2006, if the lifetime deferment was changed to five years about 1,430 contaminated units would enter the blood supply in the first year. If it were reduced to a single year, the number would effectively double to 2,780.

I’m not a big believer in statistics; any fool can manipulate them to serve whatever ends they choose. But factor in the all too human capacity to look for short cuts, fall asleep at the switch or just plain make a mistake, that seems like a pretty high price to get some justice.

cisco so I decided to use all my savings to move there. $1000! I thought that would be enough. This was in 1971. I could not get a job there. Everyone said go to LA. I didn’t like LA. But I went.”

For several months, Chuck remained out of work in Los Angeles. “After hating cars, and coming from a car culture in Michigan, I finally got a job as an assistant art director at Motor Trend magazine. Ironic but I loved it! I worked there for several years. I heard Architectural Digest was looking for an art director and I did a mock-up of what I thought their magazine should look like. The publisher didn’t hire me, but he liked my stuff, so he told the new art director to hire me which he did.

That was his mistake. I had seen All About Eve… “Paige Rense who is still the editor-in-chief became my advocate. Eventually I was designing the whole issue for her but I wanted the title that I had been denied. She agreed, and my boss got set aside and I became art director. My first issue was March 1979.”

Chuck wanted his magazine to stand out from the competition that routinely featured panoramic views of lavishly furnished rooms. “I thought God, they must use very tall photographers. When I proposed a single close-up shot of just a vase or art object, Paige hesitated but I got my way and that was the start of a new look that all the other magazines have copied. I was at AD for ten years. Eight fun ones and two horrible ones.”

The horrible ones were the result of Paige Rense’s being told that “Chuck runs the magazine.” His professional marriage with a strongwilled woman became a protracted divorce in which he walked away with a large settlement but no job. Another strong-willed woman, Lisa Newsom, convinced him to move to Atlanta to help her launch Veranda, eventually eclipsing Architectural Digest. Chuck asked for and received a percentage of ownership, and became the highest paid art director/editor in the country. When the Hearst Corporation purchased Veranda, Chuck cashed out and settled in Fort Lauderdale.

“I had been retired for five years. It was fun for a while. The thing I missed most was designing. I went to a site called ‘Volunteer

For information about the current exhibit at Chuck’s gallery: http://www.stonewall-library. org/pdf/2010_05.pdf

Broward’. I narrowed it down to two things: helping the Stonewall Library or ushering at the Center For Performing Arts. The ushering schedule was too demanding.”

Chuck says he learned how to handle strong-willed women at an early age. His grandmother was a powerful matriarch. “I think that’s why I get along so well with

Charles L. Ross

Jack”, he said referring to his good friend Jack Rutland who is Stonewall’s executive director. “Jack wanted a museum and I wanted to create one.”

This thought reminded Chuck of his theory that each of us eventually fulfills his favorite fairy tale. “My favorite was Little Black Sambo which is no longer popular because of its racial depictions but it’s really about a boy who talks a tiger out of eating him. He solves the problem that is threatening him. That’s me.”

Today, Chuck Ross is busy solving problems of his own creation that include finding a publisher for the two books he has written. The fact that he has not had a boyfriend since 1981 is not a problem for him.

“I’ve had three lovers. The most I could deal with today would be a pilot because he’d be away so often.”

I hope Sleeping Beauty will be the fairy tale ending for Charles L. Ross.

20

May 31 , 2010 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com Island City Center • 2550 Northeast 15th Avenue • Wilton Manors, Florida 33305

Jeffrey Seth Selzer, ESQ. • Scott A. Weiss, ESQ.

Let us review your present documents at no charge!

FREE disk of your executed documents in PDF format.

Saturday appointments now available.

(954) 567-4444 Become a client for life • Last Will and Testament • Living Will • Health Care Power of Attorney with Hippa Release • Durable Financial Power of Attorney

399.00

$

The hiring of a lawyer is an important decision that should not be based solely upon advertisements.

Before you decide, ask us to send you free written information about our qualifications and experience.

Affordable Estate Planning Packages From Your Neighborhood Law Firm

21

May 31 , 2010 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

The Art of Pride

Artists Strut Their Stuff at United & Proud

By Mary Damiano

United & Proud still have time to sign up and become members of Arts United, says Keith Clark, executive director of ArtsUnited. Art Intake is Saturday June 5. For more ome of South Florida’s most talented artists will exhibit their work information, contact Clark by e-mailing at United & Proud, the annual Pride Keith@artsunitedonline.org.

United & Proud has evolved over the Month celebration of art, presented by years to include more than just the ArtsUnited. intended artist segment.

This is the 10th anniverIt’s not exclusively gay and sary of United & Proud, lesbian,” say Clark. “We ArtsUnited’s yearly have a lot of straight members-only exhibimembers now.” tion. More than 60 The straight segment artists will display has surged in recent their best work at years, as ArtsUnited Gallery 6, on the sixth diversifies its memberfloor of the Broward ship.

County Main Library “We’ve been courtin Downtown Fort ing a wider memberLauderdale. The show ship beyond gay and is free. lesbian visual artists,” This is not a juried says Clark. “We’re trying show, but the artwork will Luscious by to get performing artists, aube judged by Vee Corallo, Jennifer Maria thors, writers, as well as people curator for ArtServe GalCordoba who just support the arts.” lery and curator for numerous Clark says the benefits of the $30 yearly avante-garde art shows in New York’s East Village in the 1980’s, including Andy Warhol, membership are numerous. Artists get to participate in ArtsUnited events, includKeith Herring, and Jean-Michel Basquiat. ing monthly solo shows at the Stonewall Prizes will be awarded for Best in Show, Library and Stork’s, as well as Art Explosion Best in Class for Painting, Photography, and other annual events. There are benefits Mixed Media/ 3-D and Drawing/Print, and Judges Recognitions. There is also a People’s for non-artist members as well, such as free Choice Award, voted on by those attending or discounted tickets to ArtsUnited’s 30-40 the special Artist Reception on Wednesday, events throughout the year, such as their annual two-week arts festival, Art Explosion.

June 9. Refreshments will be provided by ArtsUnited has increased programming the show’s sponsor at the reception. in the past two years, adding the GALLA Artists who would like to participate in

Arts Editor

S

literary Festival and their Performing Arts Series, which brought in nationally-known singers and musicians for intimate, cabaretstyle concerts. This year’s roster included Rachael Sage, Tom Goss, and Matt Alber.

Clark says there are about 200 members now. The goal is to increase this to 300 by the end of the year.

ArtsUnited has also stepped up their community outreach, partnering with various non-gay organizations. In February they organized Art Books for Children, and collected books of all disciplines for children’s organizations, including SOS Children’s Village, the Richard C. Sullivan Library in Wilton Manors, Unity for Kids, JAFCO Children’s Foundation, and several local chapters of the Boys and Girls Club.

They’re also working on projects with Women in Distress.

“We’re trying to partner with and reach out to a lot of other organizations,” says

Relax by artist Tuta Veloso

Clark. “Part of our mission statement is to present a positive image of the gay community and build relationships with other diverse communities in South Florida.”

Clark sees a benefit to ArtsUnited’s increase in non-gay membership and the work they are doing with organizations outside the gay community.

“Maybe one day we won’t need to have gay groups at all, because we’ll be so integrated as a society,” says Clark. “Ultimately, when we’ve fulfilled our mission and we’re not needed to encourage support of gay programming and gay community, that’s kind of the ultimate success story.”

United & Proud runs June 7-25, with the Artists Reception to be held on Wednesday, June 9, from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m., at Gallery 6 of the Broward Library, located on the 6th floor at 100 S. Andrews Ave in Fort Lauderdale. Both the exhibit and reception are free and open to the public. For more information visit ArtsUnitedOnline.org.

22

May 31 , 2010 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

Nightlife by J.W. Arnold

DJ Tony Moran Stratosphere

appearing at the

tles of beer and wine lying around decided to name their band “Signal 2,” meaning “drunk people in police code.” The Depot is located at 1243 NE 11th Ave. in Fort Lauderdale.

Wednesday, June 2

I

Valerie Tyson Band

The Perfect Storm?

It’s that Time of Year

S

urprise, surprise—it’s June and another hurricane season is upon us.

Once again, state officials warn that Floridians are not seriously heeding predictions of an overly active season. Never mind the fact we haven’t had a major storm since Wilma created havoc in 2005 despite similar warnings, but we still think some of our friends are actually eagerly anticipating a big storm.

If you recall the aftermath of Wilma, much of South Florida was without power and running water for nearly two weeks.

Practically every traffic sign and light in the county was blown out to sea making a trip across town a nightmare. Most businesses were shut down with millions of residents stuck in the autumn heat.

While our straight neighbors were searching for blue vinyl tarps to cover their damaged roofs, the gays flocked to gayborhood bars and clubs to pass the time until life eventually returned to normal. Now, we’re not hoping for a storm—and neither should you—but we’re definitely thinking back nostalgically to a few wild and crazy nights at the Alibi, the old Jackhammer and some other neighborhood haunts.

Bring it on, Mother Nature, we’ll be ready!

Until that big storm comes, here are a few highlights of the upcoming week: Tuesday, June 1

T

his summer, The Depot is presenting live music on the first Tuesday of each month at 8 p.m. at Signal 2.You’ll like the ladies of Signal 2, who, after one of their first rehearsals noticed all the empty bot-

f live music is your thing, there’s plenty in Broward County this week. Tonight, enjoy the sounds of the Valerie Tyson Band beginning at 8:30 p.m.Valerie brings together R&B, jazz, disco, classic rock, reggae and calypso styles for powerful show. Stop in a little early for the 2-4-1 happy hour drink special and $5 tapas menu. The Manor is located at 2345 Wilton Drive.

Thursday, June 3

E

dison Farrow’s SoBe Social Club presents Simple Life Thursdays each week at the Buck15 Lounge just off trendy Lincoln Rd. at 707 Lincoln Ln. in Miami Beach. With a cool New York lounge vibe, South Beach socialites regularly pack the upstairs bar to mingle and enjoy the music of DJ Daisy D. Friday, June 4

S

outh Florida’s popular leather and levi bar, Ramrod, hosts Muscle Bear Fridays tonight. If hot, sweaty, muscled men are your thing, then you’re likely to find more than a few here. The $1 Bear Hug shots are the special of the night.

Saturday, June 5

W

e’ve all got those happy hour 2-4-1 drink tokens sitting around our houses, but unfortunately, they’re no good on the weekends. Well, Sidelines Sports Bar on Wilton Dr. has extended its 2-4-1 happy hour special on Saturdays through June. The best part of this deal? They’ve also extended the hours, so you can drink cheap most of the night.

Sunday, June 6

C

alling all those night owls who don’t have to be at work bright and early Monday morning: Ebonee Excell performs live at South Beach’s Twist at 1 a.m. in the cabaret lounge.Twist is located at 1059 Washington Ave.

Taking Back the Night Mark Baker is back with Wonderland Orlando

By Ray Bach

lanta and so many other great gay events over the years.”

So he resolved to step back in, with a ince 1997, night time dance parThursday night party at the House of Blues ties have been a staple—and a big (“Grind”), a Sunday night showcase once draw—for Gay Days Weekend. again at Hard Rock Live (“Fasscination”), Pulling in as many as 6,000 per event to and late night weekend parties at Arabian attractions like Typhoon Lagoon, Disney’s Nights. Knowing that Saturday night was key, Hollywood Studios, Universal Studios he worked with Watermark—original proFlorida and Hard Rock Live, these unprecducers of Beach Ball at Typhoon Lagoon—to edented parties earned an international reputation as among the best LGBT events create Stratosphere Party at Universal Studios Florida. Ticket prices have been reof the year.

One promoter responsible for raising the duced, but Baker promises a ‘heart-pounding 360 degree experience’ at all of his parties. bar was Orlando local Mark Baker, whose “The technology has improved so Colosseum Party and Stars Party became legendary for introducing cutting-edge sound, much,” he says. “I can’t wait to blow people away again.” lighting and special effects to the weekend.

For the first time Baker has also commanBaker turned his lineup of events—including popular late-night parties at Arabian nights— deered a host hotel—the freshly remodeled over to Johnny Chisholm in 2004, and moved Holiday Inn-Walt Disney World—that will with his partner to Atlanta with no thoughts be the site for a series of pool parties. He’s rebranded the whole lineup “Wonderland of returning. But when Chisholm imploded Orlando” to distinguish the past from what last year, moving parties out of theme park venues at the last minute due to unpaid bills, he sees as a bright future.

“We want people to say, ‘This is an amazBaker took notice. ing weekend. This is something I want to do “I think what we created in the late 90s was unique—a world class event,” he says. “I every year,’” Baker says. hated to see it come crashing down. And I was afraid that, without the big parties, Gay Editor’s note: Ray Bach is a reporter with the WaDays would kind of fade away—like Hottermark and this article is used with permission.

S

May 31 , 2010 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

Thom Vernon Book Reading

Immigration a Matter of Life and Love for Author

By J.W. Arnold

T

hey say art imitates life, but the lines are definitely blurred when it comes to Thom Vernon. The Arkansas native boasts a long list of TV credits as an actor on hit shows such as General Hospital, Seinfeld, and The Fugitive. And just a few years ago, he and his Zimbabwean-born partner left the United States for self-imposed “exile” in Canada after his partner was denied residency. All of these experiences have influenced his new novel, The Drifts.

Vernon’s novel follows an unhappily expectant mom, a man in love with a cow, a woman built like a refrigerator, and a transsexual father, as they navigate life in smalltown Arkansas in the middle of a blizzard.

Though not autobiographical, he sees his own experiences through his characters: “In terms of their lives, the main four people are experiencing internal exile, trying to find

their way ‘home’ to a life for themselves. It’s no different from anyone else, and also the life that we imagine for ourselves and our families,” he says.

Vernon will be reading from his new book at Books & Books in Coral Gables on Tuesday, June 1 at 8 p.m. In addition to the reading,Vernon will be discussing the immigration challenges faced by same-sex couples with an international partner.

“My family was heartbroken and so were we when we had to leave the country just to be together,” he explains. “If I had a dollar for every time I’ve heard, ‘Why don’t you just go to Massachusetts?’ They just don’t understand. It’s important that I try to help others who are in the same predicament.”

Thom Vernon Reading from The Drifts Tuesday, June 1, 8 p.m.

Books & Books 265 Aragon Ave., Coral Gables

23

24

May 31 , 2010 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

SFGN Profile: John Tanasychuk

He is proud to share that he spends 30 minutes every morning exercising to shed the extra pounds he may tack on during his reviews. Furthermore, Tanayschuk maintains a mostly vegetarian diet when dining at home.

Tanasychuk and Levin live on ents both worked in Detroit, my father as a so I gave up my job the Oleta River with three cats bartender, my mother as a registered nurse. at the Free Press which they took in, Mr. Silverman, When you grow up in Windsor, the United to be with him.”

Brisket and Toby. If he has it his Despite his wonStates is a big influence.” That proximity way, future retirement plans inderful position at would soon come into play.

John Tanasychuk clude spending half the year in his the Sentinel, he is The Windsor, Ontario native, who only native Canada and the other half in South not jaded. “I still enjoy an Egg McMuffin from became a United States citizen two years Florida. For now though, let’s look forward ago, began his career as a food writer when McDonalds,” he laughs. to reading about his latest ventures in the Tanasychuk has reviewed everything he was hired by the Detroit Free Press.

Throughout his 10 year employment at the from local mom and pops to superstar chef culinary world of South Florida.

Emeril Lagasse’s flagship Miami Beach respublication, Tanasychuk held a variety of John’s Choices: writing and editing posts, ultimately becom- taurant, Emeril’s. “I tend to be easier with the smaller restaurants because they don’t ing assistant features editor.

Best Breakfast – The Front Porch, have the million dollar budgets that the It was during his tenure in Detroit that 1418 Ocean Drive, Miami Beach celebrities do. I enjoy the dining experience Best Lunch – Charcuterie Too, 100 S. Tanasychuk met his partner Steve Levin. more at small establishments.”

“We met where every gay man meets his Andrews Avenue, Fort Lauderdale A resident of North Miami Beach,Tanasypartner…in a bar,” he says with a smile.

Best Dinner – Chez Jean-Pierre, 132 chuk spends a lot of time reading, cooking Tanasychuk’s relocation to South Florida North County Road, Palm Beach was a result of Levin. “Steve opened a home and listening to music. “Growing up near Best Dessert – Michael’s Genuine Detroit, music has been a big part of my life,” furnishings company down here and we Food & Drink, 130 Northeast 40th Street, he states. “I love listening to R&B artists like tried maintaining a long-term relationship Miami for about a year. That didn’t work very well, Aretha Franklin, Missy Elliot and Mary J. Blige.”

Sun-Sentinel Foodie Dishes on Life, Love and Food

By Joey Amato

R

ecently, I had the pleasure to sit down with John Tanasychuk, the man behind most of the dining reviews in the Sun-Sentinel. Since I conduct many reviews for this paper, I was really looking forward to meeting the man that most restaurants fear….or love.

Tanasychuk earned a bachelor’s degree in English from the University of Windsor.

“My first journalism job was at my hometown newspaper, The Windsor Star, where I worked weekend midnights as a copy boy.” He quickly climbed the ladder and was eventually offered a position working weekend nights as a reporter. “I covered everything from car accidents to baby contests. It was a small paper, remember.”

Many people don’t realize Windsor is actually south of Detroit and just a five minute drive to the United States. “My par-

Expedia & IGLTA Launch LGBT Travel Site

By A. Sebastian Fortino

E

xpedia.com is the world’s leading online travel agency. Recently, they announced that they have added a travel site catering to the LGBT community.

They have partnered with Fort Lauderdalebased International Gay & Lesbian Travel As-

sociation (IGLTA), which is the leading global organization dedicated to our travel needs.

“At Expedia.com, this is in keeping with our mission to be the best place to book travel,” said Tim MacDonald, senior vice president and general manager, of Expedia. com. “This page will simplify and improve the shopping and booking experience for

Where Business Comes to Succeed.

For advertising opportunities, call Cliff Dunn: 954-530-4970

LGBT customers. It was based on research illustrating the difficulty in finding LGBTwelcoming hotels, and our solution was vetted by a group of LGBT professionals at Expedia® and a roundtable of gay travel community members.

IGLTA helped us determine the hotels that populate the store.”

If you have ever gone through the experience of looking for a hotel, especially in a foreign country whose language you do not speak, you know the difficulty in finding a gay friendly hotel, inn, or guesthouse. Would-be travelers often consult with friends, look for things like gay pride flags or smiling gay couples on website photo galleries.

The Expedia & IGLTA initiative will certainly streamline the search.

“Our goal is to be the best place to book your travel. Expedia chose to partner with

IGLTA because of their strong reputation and international scope,” said Janet Lichtenwald, of Expedia. “They have been great partners and have provided us with solid advice and guidance. We look forward to growing our partnership.”

Currently, there are 10 domestic destinations – including Canada – and five international. Of course, our beloved South Florida is on the list! The website also lists LGBT events and festivals. The June calendar is currently posted and lists gay pride celebrations from Oslo to LA. Although, one has to wonder – given that since most gay individuals and couples have more disposable income than their straight peers, why has it taken so long for this development?

For more information please visit Expedia.com/ daily/gaytravel

25

May 31 , 2010 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

Healthy Wines for Summer

league are products like Gallo’s Livingston Cellars Red Rosé. But be careful of massproduced wines—the extraordinarily high levels of preservatives in these products may cancel out any health benefit the wine may have. (More on that in future articles.)

Looking for a chilled red to go with food?

Sparkling Shiraz fits the bill perfectly. It’s my favorite wine for Thanksgiving. Light and 55-58 degrees Fahrenheit.

By George Dauphin fruity reds so prevalent in local American Here is some advice to keep red wine vineyards serve just as well as a chilled he health benefits of red wine have from overheating. It begins in the parking accompaniment for food. Some of the best been widely reported in the media. lot where you purchase your wine. Keep come from New York State. In fact, the Pinot your car in a cool spot. Once you place the Studies by the University of CaliNoirs of the Finger Lakes have been proven wine in your cool car, take it home. Don’t fornia in Davis have proven that such wines to have the highest concentracontain antioxidant and anti-cholesterol tion of resveratrol. One such agents, the main one being resveratrol.

French Sangria Ingredients 2 ounces cognac vineyard is Dr. Konstantin Cornell University has studied resveBy A. Sebastian Fortino

2 ounces port Frank. Both their regular Pinot ratrol in red wine and found that it S angria, while most associated with 2 ounces Cointreau and the lighter Fleur de Pinot not only prevents bad cholesterol, but Spain, is also a favorite summer cock- 1 bottle of red wine such as it also breaks down plaque build up in tail in the South of France. French Beaujolais, Syrah, Red Zinfandel, etc. Noir have recently become available in Florida. the arteries.The University of CA in Sangria is, however, different from its 1/4 cup sugar Iberian cousin. The French remove 1 orange, sliced Summer may be too earBerkeley has studied quercetin, another the fruit after letting the wine absorb 1 cup of red grapes ly for Beaujolais Nouveau, component shown to prevent cancer. the flavors overnight, so it is much 1 apple, cubed but any Beaujolais can and As summer approaches, we tend to

neater to enjoy. should be chilled. stay away from the warmer, heavier Simply pour all of the liquid into an atTo make use of the fruit try puttractive glass pitcher and put into the Healthy components, such as red wines. So, how do we keep getting ting it over a plain piece of white or refrigerator overnight.

Before serving pound cake. resveratrol, can also be found the same antioxidants that reds such strain the fruit. A nice presentation is

as non-alcoholic supplements as Cabernets and Merlots offer? an orange slice on each chilled glass. at the drug store. But what’s Let’s first address some misinformathe fun in that? When you meet tion regarding red wine. The common someone at a bar, the standard line is, “Can do any harm.You can tell anyone who dismake stops along the way, leaving your wisdom is that we are supposed to drink a I buy you a glass of wine?” Somehow, “Can wine to cook in an overheated car.You may agrees what you have learned about “room red wine at “room temperature.” But does I buy you resveratrol in pill form at CVS?” temperature” in this article. consider putting a portable cooler in your mean that if you’re at a garden party in doesn’t seem to have the same ring to it.

Other options for getting your antioxitrunk for just for the trip. Otherwise, the South Beach where the temperature is 90 So, go to your local wine tasting bar, find dants while staying cool are red wines that floor behind the driver’s seat may be the degrees, the wine in your hand should also out what works for you, and stay healthy! can be chilled below room temperature best spot for your purchase. be 90 degrees? I hope not.

Buy from a merchant who knows how to or served with ice, contrary to what most The myth comes from a misunderstandsophisticated wine drinkers believe. These store wine. Make sure his wines are preing of what the French refer to as “room George Dauphin is SFGN’s Creative. He is also a sented with the bottle lying down, in a cool include Lambrusco, a light to deep red, temperature.” French winemakers prefer Certified Sommelier through the Sommelier Society slightly-sparkling varietal that is very popular of America. But he is not a doctor. With any issues their reds at the temperature of the tasting place, away from direct sunlight, away from in Italy. Try to find one from a producer oth- regarding your health, always consult and follow the front door, where it can be affected by rooms in the cellars where their wines are er than the conventional brands. In the same the advice of your personal physician. sampled and aged. That temperature is about blasts of heat.

T

The same rules apply for home storage.

Purchasing a wine cooler may be worth looking into, considering the unique climate of South Florida. Connoisseurs have a number of options, from built-in climate control units, to off-site storage, including Cat. 5 hurricane resistant vaults. If you are serious about your wine, such a vault will ensure the safety of your wine, although your house might be gone. However, for most of us, the 6-bottle mini-fridge will do.

If a guest brings a bottle of red that is warm to the touch, a 5-minute cool-off in a regular refrigerator before opening will not

26

May 31 , 2010 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

SEX IN OUR CITY

By A.J. Cross

Where the Honeysuckle Grow A Column about Sex, Relationships, Love & Heartbreak

T

oday as I was walking along an old dilapidated building in my town, I passed a small unkempt garden and the strong aroma of honeysuckle growing wild on the faintly painted white fence surrounding the garden captured my senses. The scent was so strong that I simply stood by the fence taking deep sniffs of the sweet smell of the honeysuckle and it took me back to my earlier days.

At the age of ten, I lived in a small group home in Montreal, Quebec and every morning I walked along a dirt road to the bus stop. There was a small patch of honeysuckle that I would pass and I would always stop to smell them and to pull the small white stem and eat the sweet nectar produced by the beautiful flower. It was a daily treat that seemed to always start my day off well.

My days were hard back then, and would be spent simply being as invisible as I could be. I became a talented chameleon blending into my entire environment as to not be noticed by teachers, students, the local bullies or the seventeen other boys who lived in my group home. I was small, weak and fragile then and had often times suffered unprovoked beatings at the hands of my fellow housemates.

Occasionally one of the adult male staff members would be kind enough to teach me about the birds and the bees. I learned all about what my penis should be

used for and Michael, the thirty-something year old group home supervisor found it to be as tasty as my honeysuckle nectar. Of course being ten years old, I didn’t know that his occasional taste-testing was not normal or acceptable.

I just thought everyone else got the same “special” treatment as he would call it.

Being that I was so special I thought it only fair to share what I had learned with some of the other boys in the group home, so sometimes late at night I would meet one or two of the boys and take them into the community shower room and show them what I had learned about the birds and the bees. I didn’t mind showing them so much except for the nectar that came from them was not as sweet or tasty to me as that of my precious honeysuckle, but instead typically more bitter.

These encounters had gone on for many years in my group home, but it wasn’t until my twelfth birthday that I was to receive a very special gift from Michael.

After the cake was eaten and the music died and everyone started to head to

their bedrooms, Michael grabbed my hand and told me that he had a secret present for me. I walked with him outside and down the back path to the lake. He took me into the boathouse on the lake and it was so cold out that I imagined I was a dragon breathing fire as the misty haze formed from my breath.

As we entered the usually dark boat

house, the room had a soft orange and yellow ambient glow and I saw candles all over the room. On the floor laid a small grey sleeping bag. A small radio played Motown oldies. He told me that he wanted to give me a part of him that I could have forever.

I remember being oddly calm as he laid me down on the sleeping blanket. His hands were like ice against my skin.

He started to kiss my neck and took my shirt off over my head and continued kissing my neck and my chest and stomach.

He was breathing heavily as he began to move down my body. I began to watch the shapes made on the walls which were created by the flickering candlelight. As he kissed and touched the small frame of my body, I watched the dancing lights battle with the shadows against the ceiling.

It was just a few moments before I could feel the warmth of his mouth envelope my penis and he panted like a dog that was eating for the first time in days. Michael

told me to turn over and to be still and that it was almost time for my special gift. I was excited as I flipped over on the sleeping bag and I couldn’t stop smiling in anticipation of what was to come. Was it a bicycle or a railroad set? Maybe it was it was the Return of the Jedi, Darth Vader figure that I wanted.

By the time the image of Darth Vader fully entered by head, I felt the strangest wet sensation on my butt. He began to lick that part me that I usually used for sitting on. He went into some kind of wild frenzy and he raised me onto my knees and started to force his tongue deep inside of me, and the sensation was bizarre and wet and oddly pleasing.

I could not see what he was doing, but I heard the buckle of his belt start to chime as he began to take his belt off, and I then heard his pants being unzipped. Within moments I felt something large and very hard gliding across my butt. I could feel him rub the head of his penis across the middle of my butt and without any notice of any kind; he pushed himself hard and deep into me. I had no idea that the nerves in my ass were connected to my eyes, but I was sure that my eyes were going to pop right out of my head. An intense burn made its way through my body and darkness quickly surrounded me.

My eyes opened slowly and the room was full of light from the sun coming through the window. The candles were all blown out and I was alone. My body ached and I could barely move enough to pull up my underwear and put my pants back on.

As I rose from the floor I noticed dry red blood on the grey sleeping bag. I opened the door to the boathouse and carefully looked around to ensure that no one was around before leaving. I carefully and slowly walked back to the house and was able to make it to my room unnoticed.

That morning as I painfully walked the path to the school bus, it was the first time that I did not stop to smell and taste my precious honeysuckle. It was the last time actually, until today that I had done so.

27

May 31 , 2010 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

Martha Walker

Drawing with Metal

By A. Sebastian Fortino

M

artha Walker is a sculptor based in Brooklyn, NY, but like many residents of Gotham she has a connection to South Florida. The artist went to Miami Beach High School, and graduated from there in 1971.

“In those days,” said Walker from her home in Park Slope, Brooklyn, “Miami was a decrepit old folks home. In those days, we couldn’t wait to get out. It’s amazing that is has become such a hot spot in the past 20 years.”

When asked if she took art classes in high school, Walker surprisingly responded no. While interested in art she did not take any classes in the field until her senior year. Her art teacher was immediately impressed with her work. One day he told her she had to go to an interview with recruiters from the Pratt Institute in ‘Birth’ New York.

“I actually worked through high school, and I didn’t think I could afford art school. Resentfully,” she added with a laugh given how art has become her career, “I went to this Pratt interview. I was resentful because ‘T’Kiyyah’ I had to spend $20, in those days, to have them review my portfolio and transcripts.”

The recruiters, however, were very impressed. Pratt awarded her a partial scholarship. Once in New York, as a freshman, she felt intimidated by other young artists who had more of a structured background than she did, artistically. The museums in New York intrigued her, especially the sculptures. Walker claimed sculpture as her major the next year.

“There are a number of ways to create

sculpture,” said Walker. “Carving, modeling, casting from a wax model, and direct metal, in which you weld sheets, or pipes together.”

She was immediately intrigued by this final approach to sculpture as it allowed her to “draw with metal.”

She has a further connection to South Florida, other than her love of Key West, and high school. The Boca Resort recently installed two of her metal sculptures in a new wing of the hotel. “Birth,” is a 7 foot tall piece in the lobby, as in many of her pieces there is an aquatic, microbiological feel to the pebbled steel. Walker is able to make the solidity of metal seem to take on a fluidity of an amoeba or a jellyfish.

She is quite in demand. When the resort asked for another piece, she had to decline, as it was already housed in a museum. However, she promised them a similar piece. “Venus,” is reminiscent of the center of a flower. The technical ability of her blowtorch renders the steel basket-like, with an air of whimsy to it that recalls a Tim Burton creation.

Her work has also been featured on Gossip Girl. This was after someone involved

with the show’s creative team saw some of her work on a website.

“What was really interesting, to me, is that one of the characters on the show visited the gallery and took pictures of my sculpture on the show,” she added fondly.

In addition to the Boca Resort, and having her work on national ‘Venus’ television, she is also represented by the Elaine Baker Gallery of Boca, which discovered Walker’s work there via an annex they have at the resort.

“Elaine Baker tracked me down and has since shipped down “T’kiyyah,” that is the sound the Shofar makes,” Walker added.

“While I am not religious, I am culturally Jewish and love the feminine look of the shofar.”

The shofar is a horn, traditionally made of a ram’s horn. It has a serpentine curviness to it. However, Walker captures the shape of the sound, not the horn itself. There is something reminiscent of an ear in this piece, as if it is not only the sound, but the heard sound.

“Sculpture, said Walker, “as most artistic fields is dominated by men. Part of it is the physicality, women can be intimidated by sculpture, when it comes to the use of tools that have been traditionally associated with men. Yet, I think carpentry is very similar to sowing, because it’s a lot of measuring, sowing, and cutting. Art is sort of where and what you allow yourself in terms of what you can or cannot do.”

This is true of Walker’s life, as well. In the 1980s she and her partner were the first gay couple to be married at their synagogue in Brooklyn, and in 1985 they were one of the first couples to conceive using artificial insemination. She now has two children, a 25- year-old son, a graduate of the Columbia School of Journalism and a daughter who at 16 leads up her school’s gay straight alliance. Her children, she says, are both straight but they feel that “our community is their community.”

Of her rarified spirit, and commitment to her craft, despite sculpture being a male dominated field: “I once spoke to a class of kids about bigotry. Sometimes you have no idea when you are being discriminated against. No one will call you a dyke or a faggot,” she said, “but they might feel it. So, for that reason I find that it’s best not to focus on it. If you focus on what people say you can’t do, it can push you back. Some times you need blinders to do what you want to accomplish.”

28

May 31 , 2010 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

29

May 31 , 2010 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

Dining Review

The ingredients worked extremely well together and would definitely be complimented by a glass of cabernet.

1032 East Las Olas Blvd.

Following the pizza, our very knowledgeFort Lauderdale able server brought us the chef’s special, 954-357-2616 Fried Mozzarella, prepared with a garlic butter, caper and tomato sauce. Both my guest and I thought the dish was a little oily, but were impressed by the quality of the fresh mozzarella used.

For our pasta selection, the chef recommended we try the Shells Buon Gusto.

The pasta was prepared with smoked bacon, caramelized red onions and mushroom pomodoro sauce. This dish exemplified traditional Southern Italian cooking at its finest. No fancy ingredients or creams were used in its preparation. The dish relies on the smokiness of the bacon and savory pomodoro sauce for flavor. Definitely a favorite and equally

By Joey Amato as enjoyable the day after… Yes, I took this to go! ince we began publishing South SoLita doesn’t offer a large selection of Florida Gay News, we have never entrées, but the dishes offered are plenticonducted a dining review of an establishment on Las Olas Boulevard. Well, ful and delicious. The first entrée to arrive was the Yellow Tail Snapper with peppers, that is about to change. For the past two onions and mushrooms in a light tomato months, I have been hearing about a new restaurant called SoLita. Some reviews were sauce. The fish was very flavorful and pergood, some bad, so I decided it was time to fectly cooked.

Our second entrée was the Veal Chop experience the restaurant for myself.

SoLita, which means South of Little Italy, prepared with smoked bacon and mushrooms, braised in white wine and veal is in a wonderful corner location on the boulevard. As guests enter the restaurant, stock. The veal was very tender and, to my surprise, worked well with the smoked they are overwhelmed by the attention to bacon. In addition to the entrées, we also detail given to the décor and layout. The venue is divided into two sections, a formal enjoyed a side of Crispy Brussel Sprouts, which contained slightly too much lemon dining room and an ultra-lounge, although for my liking, but were tasty. there is not a distinct partition between And if you still have room for dessert, the two. Guests who come to SoLita can I highly recommend the Drunken Berries. either enjoy a complete dinner or grab a The name says it all: a combination of bercocktail and perhaps a pizza in the lounge. ries soaked in different liquors and topped Speaking of pizza, the first item we with homemade whipped cream. This was sampled on our recent visit to the restauthe highlight of my evening. I absolutely rant was the Meat Pizza. Pizza specialties loved this dessert. It was light yet flavorful, change daily, but on our visit we got the and the berries were fresh and sweet. pleasure of enjoying a pizza made with If you haven’t had the chance to stop by prosciutto, mascarpone cheese, arugula SoLita, I would definitely make an effort to and aged balsamic – definitely not your traditional pizza, but delicious nonetheless. in the near future, if only for a pizza.

WHERE: SoLita

S

2(x)ist or Not 2(x)ist

National Magazines Hold Back ‘Racy’ Ad

By Joey Amato

T

wo major men’s publications have rejected the latest advertisement from underwear company 2(x)ist because it’s “too racy.” Both Details and Men’s Health refused to place the advertisement featuring a man in a thong that exposes his bottom.

Brazilian model Andre Ziehe is shown in three poses, but the “racy” one in question shows Ziehe’s bare cheeks in a “Y”-back thong. Michael Goodman, partner at Bitner Goodman, a full-service advertisement and public relations company based in Fort Lauderdale, says: “It is possible that if they ran this ad it might set a precedent for other advertisers to submit similar creative concepts.”

The advertisement “has the potential to have a negative impact on a core group of their loyal readers and perhaps even other advertisers,” he says.

Out Magazine, however, has gone ahead and placed the ad in their current issue, whose cover features Christina Aguilera.

Allison Keane, a representative of Men’s Health, is quick to clarify her company’s stance on the issue: “2(x)ist only presented us with one creative option for our current issue instead of the standard two.”

Keane also mentions that a “more conservative” ad from the company will run in their July/August issue, which hits newsstands mid-June.

John Castelli of Castelli Real Estate Services doesn’t see anything wrong with the thong ad. “I would advertise my business in any magazine that ran this ad. It is this kind of ad that grabs attention,” says Castelli. “Also, remember that ‘the medium is the message’ so where the ad runs has a great deal to do with audience acceptance. This is no different than a Victoria’s Secret ad.”

A Musical about Male Prostitutes with and photographs of male escorts. First staged in South Florida at Rising Escorts, the Docu-Musical Wed., June 2—Sun., June 6 Action two years ago, Leddick and composer Andrew Sargent retooled the show, Rising Action Theatre which presents the stories of nearly a dozen 840 E. Oakland Park Blvd., Fort Lauderdale escorts—including Mike Jones, the man who Tickets $25-$30 For tickets, call 1-800-838-3006 outed evangelist Ted Haggard.

“We’ve tightened the show and developed a relationship between one of the escorts and his client,” Leddick explains.“What a lot of people

By J.W. Arnold wanted was more of a thread of a story beavid Leddick has been called a lot tween the characters.We added two new songs of things over his career, but don’t and dropped a song.We’re also really pleased to have some performers who can really sing and call him dull. The colorful Miami Beach author, playwright and actor will again that made an enormous difference.”

One of the attractions of the show, Ledbe in the spotlight when his latest musical, Escorts, is restaged at Rising Action Theater dick feels, is the taboo nature of the topic: “It really exposes an underbelly aspect of our this weekend. culture, sort of like The Threepenny Opera— Dubbed a “docu-musical,” the show which was almost pornographic in England is based on Leddick’s most recent book, a century ago—and we’re bringing it to the Escorts … Forty Profiles with Photographs of Men Who Sell Sex, which contains interviews public’s attention.”

Theatre Feature

D

May 31 , 2010 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com Current events also seem to help the writer sell tickets.

When the first production premiered, the Ted Haggard scandal was in the news; this time, it’s the George Rekers escort scandal.

“Thank God we have public officials and figures who continue to promote our concept,” Leddick says with a laugh.

“I really do think the psychology is fascinating.

These men have a compulsion to get caught; they feel guilty about their hidden gayness.”

The author of the definitive book on the subject, The Secret Lives of Married Men, Leddick has become an expert on the topic and, whenever such a scandal arises, he finds his phone ringing off the hook with reporters seeking comment.

“It’s the only book that’s been written on the subject,” he says. “The funny thing is that book has been criticized for being dull. That’s a new criticism for me, being attacked for being dull.”

Escorts is anything but, he insists, and he can prove it—three different theater companies on the West Coast have plans to mount the show this year and backers have been attracted for a run in New York City next spring.

show card photo by Tom Bianchi. right photo by Robert Figueroa

30

31

May 31 , 2010 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

Miami Artists Take Over Toronto

By A. Sebastian Fortino

A

rts collective FriendsWithYou (FWY), based in Miami’s Design District, is much more interactive than traditional galleries. Samuel Borkson and Arturo Sandoval III started FWY handcrafting fantastic toys. Roughly seven years ago they created their toys from that longforgotten medium for play: wood. Based on the simple ideals of “magic, friendship and luck,” their art is both synonymous with and the antithesis of the videogame generation in which the founders were raised.

The statement “art is for everyone” can easily become lost in the elite design and gallery districts of American cities. This is not the case with FWY, where a collectible toy priced at less than ten dollars sits not far from

Chancellor of Information at FWY. “We plan on giant inflatable pieces throughout the park. These range from 30 – 50 feet high,” says Chiarra. “We have giant totems, bounce houses, inflatable costumes, and a lot of fun running throughout.”

They will also have a solo exhibition at Toronto’s Narwhal Art Projects called “Day Dreamers.” There, FWY founders’ Borkson and Sandoval’s rarely-seen fine art, consisting of flat pieces and sculptures, will be featured.

In addition to their work bringing childlike play and fun into the world of adults, the group lent their work to Manifest Equality in March. A piece of fine art, “Rainbow City,” was donated to their festival and ultimately sold – the funds donated to the Los Angeles-based non-profit group that fights for equal rights.

The group would like to work again with an event or non-profit organization that promotes equality.

They are happy that Toronto, one of the world’s most diverse and liberal cities, will feature their art. This is because much of their work fosters an ideal world, where enchanted creatures and special friends help each other through life’s journey.

Works of art like “Farmers” depict humanoid, videogame-inspired forms that work, weave, and play across a pink background in a harmonious world.

“Once Upon A Time” shows the journey of a little bourgeois figure as he makes his way to a mountain on the other side of his realm. He meets smiling clouds, trees that guide him on his journey, and a fox-king whose crowns float above his head.

FWY does much more than invite you into a playful realm of characters. The group encourage adults to not forget their childhood, and children to see the art in even their playthings. If you’re unable to get to the Luminato Festival, make sure to stop into their Miami location.

Be sure, however, to leave your adult concerns at the door, and count FriendsWithYou among your own. Chances are your innerchild won’t let you leave empty-handed.

a sculpture costing thousands.

In addition to their boutique-cum-gallery on NE 2nd Avenue in Miami, the group focuses on large-scale installations that allow people to interact through the concept of play. For the past year, FWY has worked to develop Toronto’s 2010 Luminato Festival, running from June 10-20. They call their involvement the “Wish Come True Festival.”

The biggest artistic installation for Luminato will take over Toronto’s famous Queen’s Park in the form of “Rainbow City.”

There, the Rainbow King will transform the green space into his own kingdom of “magic, luck and friendship.”

“Luminato approached us about developing ‘Rainbow City.’ The event is an annual finearts and creativity festival. They approached us based on our installation at Scope during Art Basel 2008. We have been developing this for a year now,” says Nathaly Chiarra, the For more information, visit Friendswithyou.com

• Experts in County Foreclosure Auctions—once we own the property we resell to the Public at STEEP DISCOUNTS • No Wait for Short Sale Approvals or Approvals on Bank-owned Properties • Five-day closings for cash-buyers • We can wait for you to arrange financing and then close when funds are available • Short Sale Process on Properties where the Loan is Higher than Current Value—with 90 day closings in most cases • RENTALS and PROPERTY MANAGEMENT Services Available PRI CED AT $ 169 ,000

Not Short Sale or REO! Quick closing! 2/1 and 2/1 Poinsettia Heights duplex, close to Wilton Manors, shopping, beaches. Great investment opportunity! Sold AS IS. Big backyard. Previous bank foreclosure. Live in one, rent the other for $900/month.

PRI CED AT

COMING ATTRACTIONS • 2/2 COTTAGE, CENTRAL A/C, GARAGE, LARGE MANICURED YARD. LAVENDER HILL. $109,000 • 2/1 PRIVATE SINGLE-FAMILY HOME. OVERSIZED LOT FOR YOUR OWN OASIS! MIDDLE RIVER TERRACE. $149,000

PRI C SAL ED AT E PE $59 NDI 5,00 NG! 0

$87 5,00 0

Not Short Sale or REO! Quick closing!

New Construction Home, Custom-built in 2007.

25’ foyer entrance. 3,200 Sq Ft. Master Suite with cabana bath on the 1st Floor. 3 Bedrooms upstairs, including Master Suite with terraces, in-suite fireplace. Celebrity walk-in closet, complete with water views! Heated Pool, Spa, Tiki Hut. Spiral staircase to 900 Sq Ft, 360 degree rooftop terrace! 88’ of Waterfrontage!

Not Short Sale or REO! Quick closing!

100 Feet on the Water, 11’ high Fixed Bridge.

2 minute boat ride to Intracoastal Waterway.

3 Bedroom, 3 full bath. Hardwood floors. Large patio. Beautiful pool. Water view.

Lowest-priced house in The Landings.

OFFERED BY VINCENT CLANCY 954-993-1745 AND DALIA BACIULYTE 954-600-2373

2364 Wilton Drive, Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33305

Phone: 954.993.1745 • Fax: 954.337.0882 • www.DaVinciRealtyGroup.com

32

May 31 , 2010 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

Crossword Puzzle

58 Nannies’ cries 59 Showbiz drama with a charAcross acter based on 36-Across, 1 Gals of guys with big shooters for short 6 “Lesbians ignite!” e.g.

61 Slips up 11 ___ Afraid of Virginia Woolf 62 As You Like It forest 15 Swell place 63 Lorca’s “Later” 16 Harold and Maude screen64 Legal suspension writer Higgins 65 Broadway prompter’s job 17 Banjoist Scruggs 66 “Try someone else” 18 TV political drama 20 Bread for Madonna’s ancestors Down 21 Baseball, informally 1 It may bite your shorts 22 Husband of a Duke 2 Lorca’s eight 23 Off-the-wall 3 Cruise obnoxiously 24 With 47-Across,TV fantasy 4 Congressional output comedy 5 “Bless you” preceder 26 Titanic sinker 6 Crisp activity 30 Took care of 7 Far from chic 31 Irene of Fame fame 8 What Washington couldn’t tell 32 Electronics giant 9 Part of a pink lady 36 Actress who played in 10 Part of the U.K. 18-Across and 24/47-Across 11 Like the Ladies of Llangollen 41 Reward for reruns 12 Cole Porter’s “Katie Went 42 Victim of Jacob’s tricks to ___” 43 St. Paul’s state 13 Utah’s Hatch 44 Green light 14 Phat, for example 47 See 24-Across 19 Author Rednour 51 Petty of A League of Their Own 22 Elroy Jetson stroked him 52 One that sucks some sap 24 Best of the Beatles 53 Giant star 25 Second word of fairy tales Pro-family Christian

26 “Yecch!”

27 Singer Vikki 28 Canal traveled by New York ferries 29 Bigmouth, e.g.

30 German statesman Helmut 32 Big name in shoes 33 Is in the hole 34 Suffix with Congo 35 ___ all-time high 37 Still in the closet, perhaps 38 Falco of Nurse Jackie 39 Women who don’t have sex with men 40 Hermit’s home 44 Having an orgasm 45 Bite it 46 Maxima maker 47 Edna and others 48 Like unhappy lovers, maybe 49 Samurai writer Saikaku 50 Pantywaist 51 Weighed down 53 Dench of Notes on a Scandal 54 Queen of Carthage 55 Come out 56 Exotica director Egoyan 57 Wall St. group 59 Baudelaire’s bag 60 Broadway bio Solution on page 39

LESBIAN, GAY, BISEXUAL, & TRANSGENDER PRIDE MONTH, 2010

security they deserve in their time of need, including the ability to choose someone other than an immediate family member to visit them and make medical decisions.

In other areas, the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) announced a series of proposals to enals have achieved success and prominence in sure core housing programs are open to By the President every discipline.They are our mothers and fa- everyone, regardless of sexual orientation of the United States of America thers, our sons and daughters, and our friends or gender identity. HUD also announced the and neighbors. Across my Administration, first-ever national study of discrimination A PROCLAMATION openly LGBT employees are serving at every against members of the LGBT community s Americans, it is our birthright level.Thanks to those who came before us in the rental and sale of housing. Additionthat all people are created equal —the brave men and women who marched, ally, the Department of Health and Human and deserve the same rights, stood up to injustice, and brought change Services has created a National Resource privileges, and opportunities. Since our earlithrough acts of compassion or defiance—we Center for LGBT Elders. est days of independence, our Nation has have made enormous progress and continue Much work remains to fulfill our Nastriven to fulfill that promise. An important to strive for a more perfect union. tion’s promise of equal justice under law chapter in our great, unfinished story is My Administration has advanced our for LGBT Americans. That is why we must the movement for fairness and equality journey by signing into law the Matthew give committed gay couples the same rights on behalf of the lesbian, gay, bisexual, and Shepard and James Byrd, Jr., Hate Crimes and responsibilities afforded to any married transgender (LGBT) community. This month, Prevention Act, which strengthens Federal couple, and repeal the Defense of Marriage as we recognize the immeasurable contribuprotections against crimes based on gender Act. We must protect the rights of LGBT tions of LGBT Americans, we renew our identity or sexual orientation. We renewed families by securing their adoption rights, commitment to the struggle for equal rights the Ryan White CARE Act, which provides ending employment discrimination against for LGBT Americans and to ending prejulife-saving medical services and support to LGBT Americans, and ensuring Federal dice and injustice wherever it exists.

Americans living with HIV/AIDS, and finally employees receive equal benefits. We must LGBT Americans have enriched and eliminated the HIV entry ban. I also signed a create safer schools so all our children may strengthened the fabric of our national life.

Presidential Memorandum directing hospilearn in a supportive environment. I am also From business leaders and professors to tals receiving Medicare and Medicaid funds committed to ending “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” athletes and first responders, LGBT individuto give LGBT patients the compassion and so patriotic LGBT Americans can serve

A

openly in our military, and I am working with the Congress and our military leadership to accomplish that goal.

As we honor the LGBT Americans who have given so much to our Nation, let us remember that if one of us is unable to realize full equality, we all fall short of our founding principles. Our Nation draws its strength from our diversity, with each of us contributing to the greater whole. By affirming these rights and values, each American benefits from the further advancement of liberty and justice for all.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, BARACK OBAMA, President of the United States of America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and the laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim June 2010 as Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender Pride Month. I call upon all Americans to observe this month by fighting prejudice and discrimination in their own lives and everywhere it exists.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this twenty-eighth day of May, in the year of our Lord two thousand ten, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirty-fourth.

BARACK OBAMA

33

May 31 , 2010 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

City of Miami Beach Takes Pride on the Road Becomes Sponsor of NY Pride Fest

By Joey Amato

T

he City of Miami Beach, still beaming with pride after a hugely successful Miami Beach Gay Pride event two weeks ago, is packing its rainbow flag and heading to the Big Apple as one of the sponsors of NYC Pride on June 27.

Sometimes considered Manhattan’s “sixth borough,” Miami Beach intends to show New Yorkers that visitors need an extra hour each day of the week to experience one of the most accepting and diverse cities in the world. That’s the message behind the city’s “Miami Beach Proud 25/7” NYC Pride theme.

“In addition to our white powder beaches, world-class shopping, non-stop nightclubs and five-star dining, Miami Beach has a long and strong history of acceptance and progressive attitudes toward the LGBT community,” said City Manager Jorge M. Gonzalez. “We’re proud of our reputation

as a top destination for LGBT travelers, and we’re also proud of our nearly two-decade history of supporting LGBT residents and businesses—including our domestic partnership registry, a Gay Business Development

Committee, and one of the strongest humanrights ordinances on record of any city.”

For the NYC Pride parade, Gonzalez said the city will participate by fielding a street team, led by legendary drag diva Miss Elaine Lancaster, and complete with a large banner and body-painted marchers harnessed to gi-

designed to remind the expected 1.5 million spectators that there’s so much shopping, dining, staying, playing and discovering in Miami Beach, they’ll need an extra hour each day when they visit.

One of those spectators will be Miami Beach resident James Keith Buehner, who won the “Proud 25/7” drawing at the Miami Beach Pride Expo tent. In addition to round-trip airfare, Buehner and his guest will be treated to VIP status at NYC Pride’s “Dance on the Pier” immediately following the parade.

Finally, for those who want to share their favorite “Proud 25/7 moment”—whether from New York or Miami Beach—the city is hosting a Facebook photo contest where the winner will receive a two-night stay and spa treatments from the Shore Club.

To enter the photo contest, log onto Miamibeach25-7.com, click on the Facebook link at the bottom of the page, and upload a photo to the Miami Beach 25/7 fan page.

ant “Miami Beach Proud 25/7” balloons.

Members of the street team will also interact with spectators along the parade route and distribute “Proud 25/7” fans, temporary tattoos and sunscreen samples, all For more information on NYC Pride, visit nycpride.org.

34

May 31 , 2010 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

Marketplace

GRAPHIC DESIGN

TRANSPORTATION

TAILOR

BEAUTY

BAIL BONDS

HEALTH

TIRES

CAR DETAILING

HEALTH

CLEANING

INSURANCE

CONSTRUCTION

BEDDING

LAWYERS

GRAPHIC DESIGN

ASPHALT

ANIMAL CARE

LAWYERS

COMPUTERS

REAL ESTATE

COFFEE

LAWYERS

LANDSCAPING

Brandy Bail Bonds, inc.

WAYNE SPATH 916 South Andrews Ave. • Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33316 Broward (954) 463-4333 Dade (305) 945-9944 Keys (305) 296-2245 Fax (954) 462-3954 • www.brandybailbonds.com

35

May 31 , 2010 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

JARRETT’S SMART LIST

By Jarrett Terrill “Jarrett’s Smart List” is a new feature for SFGN where Jarrett Terrill will be giving his advice on the best (and worst) businesses to support based on their business practices, politics, hiring policies, and contributions to the gay community.

Thumbs Up Shell Gas Stations, Jiffy Lube, Firestone/Bridgestone Tires Royal Dutch/Shell Group • Royal Dutch/Shell Group • 48% of Political contributions went to Democrats • Lobbying expenses were only 15% of what Exxon spent.

• Shell has a FULL Non-Discrimination hir-

ing policy which includes Gays, Lesbians, Bisexual and Transgender people.

• Shell also has Full Domestic Partner Benefits and Health which even includes certain Transgender medical treatments.

Jiffy Lube • 48% of Political contributions went to Democrats • Jiffy Lube spent $0 on lobbying congress.

• Jiffy Lube has a FULL Non-Discrimination hiring policy which includes Gays, Lesbians, Bisexual and Transgender people.

• Jiffy Lube also has Full Domestic Partner Benefits and Health which even includes certain Transgender medical treatments.

Firestone/Bridgestone Tires • 49%

of Political contributions went to Democrats • Lobbying

expenses were half of what their nearest competitor spent (Goodyear).

• Firestone/Bridgestone

has a FULL Non-Discrimination hiring policy which includes Gays, Lesbians, Bisexual and Transgender people.

• Firestone/Bridgestone also has Full Domestic Partner Benefits and Health which is available to transgender employees but certain treatments relating to that are not yet covered.

Thumbs Down Exxon/Mobil Gas Stations, PepBoys, Meineke/DrivenBrands Exxon/Mobil Corporation • 76% of Political contributions went to Republicans

• Lobbying expenses were 9.5 times as much as any other oil/gas company.

• Exxon/Mobil discriminates against LGBT’s in hiring practices.

• Exxon/Mobil has NO Domestic Partner Benefits and NO healthcare benefits for LGBT’s either...

Meineke • 65% of political contributions went to Republicans.

• Lobbying expenses were $0.

• Meineke/Driven Brands does not interfere with the hiring policies of their individual franchises (some of which may have protections for LGBT persons), but at the corporate level their equal-opportunity policy does not cover sexual orientation.

Meineke/Driven Brands does, however, have an anti-harassment policy that covers sexual orientation.

PepBoys Automotive •M inimal Political Donations • Lobbying expenses were $0.

•P epBoys has no protections or benefits for LGBT employees or domestic partners.

Marketplace AUTOMOBILES

PETS

CAR CARE

INTERIOR DESIGN

LAWYERS

WEB DESIGN

REAL ESTATE

For All Your Real Estate Needs REOs, Foreclosures, Short Sales Rentals and Property Management ser vices available LEISURE

Seeking serious, well-capitalized investor(s) for partnership in purchasing/rehab/flip of single family homes (distress, foreclosure).

PUBLISHING

Marketplace ads as little as $75/week.

Call 954-530-4970

Eli Halali

Realtor 954.638.7034 EliHalali@gmail.com

castelli

real estate services 2 2 2 7 W i l t o n D r i v e Wilton Manors Florida 33305

Classifieds: Call Mike 954-928-1862 Help Wanted Full Time WANT TO JOIN THE HI-LIFE CAFE FAMILY? Looking for experienced waiters and bartenders. Please call 954-563-1395 for an appt.

------------------------------------------------FULL TIME REGISTERED LICENSED BARBER CALL 954-564-7383 ------------------------------------------------SMARTY PANTS BAR is looking for 3 experienced bartenders.

Are you up beat with a positive attitude?

Then this is an opportunity for you. Full time and part time positions available for the right person. Accepting resumes or applications Mon - Fri before noon.

------------------------------------------------HOMBRE IS HIRING Hombre is Hiring.. All positions apply on-line, www.HombreBar.com ------------------------------------------------SALES/CUSTOMER SERVICE Sales Position- Freelance Graphic Designer looking for a person to take business to the next level. Make great commissions selling printing and graphics. Call 954-867-6765

Help Wanted Part Time 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 ------------------------------------------------MASCULINE DANCERS WANTED The Stable is hiring masculine male dancers. Please contact Howard at 954-296-9512

Help Wanted Other OLDERMEN WANTED FOR CAM WORK Attention all daddies and Grampas: Great opportunity to work from home AND MAKE $$$$$. Requirements: computer literate , knowledge of webcam use and a DSl/cable. We are the largest older men website online for over 12 years older4me.com info@daddylive.com

Counseling JOHN W. DORAN , LCSW Serving the community for 19+ years, specializing in gay/lesbian/bisexual issues, addictions, relationship issues, HIV/AIDS, anger management, co-dependency, loss/ bereavement. Providing individual/couple/ family/group. Most insurance accepted, Wilton Manors location, 954-253-4060 ------------------------------------------------EFFECTIVE & AFFORDABLE $365 for One Year of Therapy!* **LIFE COUNSELING** • Low Self Image/Esteem • Anger/Resentment Issues • Relationship/Commitment Issues •Weight Control • Self-Sabatoging Behavior • Stop Smoking • Drug & Alcohol • Pain Management, Dependence, etc...

LIFESTYLES, LLC 954-683-8546 ------------------------------------------------GROW FROM LIFE’S CHALLENGES Addictions, relationships, depression, co-dependency & support. Sensitive & Caring Gay Therapist-WM Office.

Kurt Robbins, LMFT 954-604-7893 www.SouthFloridaTherapy.com

Home Health Care PERSONAL AT-HOME CARE GIVER AVAILABLE I am a young and experienced care giver; available to help with daily chores, companionship, driving, etc. in the NE Broward or SE Palm Beach areas. Call me. 954-224-5056

Attorney

Electrical

Handyman

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.

------------------------------------------------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 ------------------------------------------------ELECTRICAL WORK, REMODELING, SERVICE UPGRADES,ETC..

OUR PRICES WONT SHOCK YOU! Gay owned and operated. Fair prices and quality work done to N.E.C. codes.

Licensed & Insured. Call 954-822-6082.

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 ------------------------------------------------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 custom design fabricator. Pressure cleaning & power washing service. 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 and insured. 954-253-4650

Cleaning Services

Disclaimer The following advertisers listed under the category “Licensed Massage” are state licensed in Florida and provide therapeutic massage services.

------------------------------------------------YL- MASSAGE BY A NICE JEWISH GUY Let me work my massage magic.

Aventura a specialty. David 305-936-2551 MA15197 ------------------------------------------------MASSAGE BY MARK $40 SPECIAL Soothe your gay nerves, 1 HOUR of therapeutic massage done in the privacy of your home. Call 954-463-6791 or Cell 954-895-2265 MA0016739 (Non-Sexual) ------------------------------------------------MAGIC HANDS PRO MASSAGE NCBTMB Certified, FL Lic. MA51008 Very reasonable IN Call Studio rates by mature, experienced LMT. In West Central Palm Beaches. Early/Late OK 561-254-8065

FREE HOUSE OR OFFICE CLEANING! Call H&H Best Cleaners today for a FREE cleaning analysis. After two cleaning services, the third is FREE! 954-242-5044 ------------------------------------------------***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 ------------------------------------------------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 ------------------------------------------------AFFORDABLE HOME CLEANING Dependable, friendly, honest...providing quality work with great rates. Let us give you a quote today. Call JUDITH 954-548-5532 ------------------------------------------------SUMMERS CLEANING - WHERE CLEANING IS PERFECTION! Bruce’s mission is to provide professional, friendly and quality service. Give Bruce a call 513-490-7906 Licensed and Insured.

Hair Removal

Computers

AFFORDABLE LASER HAIR REMOVAL IN MIAMI BEACH $125 Bikini-Underarm laser hair removal!

LaserGirl, located in Miami Beach, and catering to the LGBT community in the Greater Miami area. Providing laser hair removal for men and women at extremely competitive and affordable prices. Look beautiful for less. For more info, visit our website at http://www.lasergirl.biz.

DALE THE COMPUTER WIZ In Home/Office On Site Service. Vista/XP, Hardware/Software, FIX-IT-NOW Remote Service/Tune Up Starting at $30.00. 11 Years Experience. 954-579-7587 www.

GayComputerWiz.com ------------------------------------------------GEEK PATROL COMPUTER SERVICES On-Site & Remote Support Located in Wilton Manors - Windows & Mac (OS X) security, virus & spyware removal, repairs upgrades, wired & wireless networking - gay owned www.

FLTechSupport.com 954-453-9574 ------------------------------------------------**OPTIMA** COMPUTER REPAIR COMPLETE IN HOME SERVICE. *Get the BEST performance, protection & value from your computer investment. *A+ Hardware & OS CERTIFIED. *Friendly, professional, RELIABLE service.

Reasonable rates. Call: Mike 954-817-3883

Licensed Massage

For Sale STREISAND MEMORABILIA 13 autographed Streisand photos, including the vinyl record The Way We Were, Funny Girl photo, Streisand and Redford The Way We Were photo. Original art work of Streisand and Warhol like paintings, also sofa used on stage in the concert-prices $199.00 to $2,000.00 WPB 561-512-6584

Graphics/Printing GRAPHICS WC We help businesses create their image and spread the word about their services. Our services include: Logo Creation, Digital Graphics, Banners, Flyer & PostcardDesign, Magnetic Signs, Vehicle Graphics & Lettering, Store Front Graphics & Lettering, Real Estate Signs & More! Call us today!

954-696-4829

Home Improvement * EARLY BIRD CONSTRUCTION * ROOFING, CARPENTRY, TILE, PAINT. Honest and ON TIME! 954-274-9378

Lawn Maintenance /Irrigation IRRIGATION SYSTEM REPAIR AND MAINTENANCE 19 yrs. experience, excellent work, referrals by request. Call Roberto at 954-383-8980 ------------------------------------------------LANDSCAPING, LAWNMOWING & MAINTENENCE - WE DO IT ALL INTEGRITY LANSCAPING SERVICE & MAINT. No Job Too Small! Also install tile/marble and clean windows! Call Call John 954-812-5434 or 954-763-3340

SFGN’S Classified SOAPBOx

Magic Johnson AIDS Foundation

Moving/Storage 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 ------------------------------------------------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.

Real Estate For Sale 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

------------------------------------------------8 INCOME UNITS FOR SALE - FORT LAUDERDALE Located between Wilton Manors & downtown FtL., this property is fenced, gated & nicely landscaped.

Receive nearly $65,000 rent a year. $399,950. Illness forces sale. Reduced nearly $200,000. Call Floyd, owner/broker, at JOY Real Estate, 954 254-7613

Vacation Rentals ASHEVILLE ANYONE? Brand new 1BD/1BA Apartment for rent in Asheville, North Carolina for weekly rental. 5 minutes to downtown and Biltmore House. Close to Beaver Lake.

Overlooks pond, beautiful country setting w/ 2 patios. Call Joey 828-505-2220

Furnished Housing PERFECT RELOCATION RENTALS - 3-6 MONTHS. From $250/week & $1,000/ month. Beautiful Studio, 1 & 2 BR Apts.

Turn key, fully furnished & equipped, clothing optional pool, laundry, parking.

Close to Gay & Nude Beaches. Pets Welcome. Incl. utilities, cable, tel., Wi-Fi Internet. 954-927-0090 or visit www.

LibertySuites.com

Rentals Fort Lauderdale FT LAUDERDALE - MIDDLE RIVER AREA LOW MOVE IN /EASY TERMS* 1BD/1BA in 4 unit bldg. All Tile $690/Mo. or $175/Wk*. W/D on premises. 6 or 12 Mo. Lease. 954-527-9225 ------------------------------------------------MIDDLE RIVER TERRACE - MINUTES TO WILTON DRIVE - IMMACULATE EFFICIENCY & 1/1’S With your own PRIVATE backyard or patio, tile floors, large closets, tile floors, newer kit/bath, water/garbage/pest cont incl., cable ready, W/D avail, QUIET all gay complex. No pets. $575-$700/Mo. Will work w/ you on move-in costs. Call 954-592-3772 ------------------------------------------------3 MINUTES TO WILTON DRIVE!!

Large bright 1st floor corner 1BD/1BA in small private beautifully landscaped building! Freshly painted, ceramic tile throughout, lots of windows, updated kitchen, extra lrg walk-in closet, laundry on premises, good parking, small pet considered! $750/ month. 954-849-4944 or 954-242-7566.

------------------------------------------------WILTON MANORS AREA Large 1BD/1BA in quiet complex. Tile floors throughout, laundry facilities, parking, close to Wilton Drive. $750/Mo. Call 954-815-2550 ------------------------------------------------LET ME FIND THAT PERFECT RENTAL At no cost to you, we review hundreds of properties in Fort Lauderdale and Wilton Manor areas to meet your specifications and price range. We will even review and prepare the final lease to insure your protection. Call Dick at 954-616-7662 or our office 954-764-6061 East Side Realty Group.

------------------------------------------------SLEEPING ROOM Private entrance, private parking, $150/week + 4WK Sec. No Pets. 954-465-4859 Leave message.

------------------------------------------------MIDDLE RIVER TERRACE 2/2 plus den. Less than 1 mile from Wilton Drive. Recent paint, new flooring, fenced tropical yard, pool. Off-street parking.

W/D on premises. $1,200/Mo. Call David, 954-806-8520 ------------------------------------------------MIDDLE RIVER TERRACE 1/1 Minutes to Wilton Drive, 2 miles to the beach. Nicely landscaped fourplex. All tile, central ac, new kit/bath, walk-in closet, french door off kit to priv 20x20 yard w/ privacy fence, laundry on prem, parking, pets ok, $750/Mo. 954-849-4944 ------------------------------------------------EAST FORT LAUDERDALE EFFICIENCY WITH LARGE PRIVATE YARD Full size fridge, walk in closet, laundry on premises, 20 x 20 private fenced yard with table and chairs, parking spot right outside unit, water/electric included.

There is no stove in unit $525/month. Call 954-849-4944

37

May 31 , 2010 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

CLASSIFIEDS@HOTSPOTSMAGAZINE.COM ------------------------------------------------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 PK 2BR/2BA W/POOL - $795/MO Beautiful gated gay complex, private tropical setting, minutes to beaches and Galleria. AC, ceiling fans, skylight, laundry facil, private covered porches. Perfect for roommates. 954-524-5188 ------------------------------------------------POINSETTIA HEIGHTS Large 3/2 Duplex Apartment for Rent. Tile floors throughout. Eat in Kitchen, W/D, Guest Bedroom with Private Entrance. $1,100/Mo. + utilities. F/S. Call 954-565-2714.

------------------------------------------------FORT LAUDERDALE EAST OF I-95 Great location 1BD/1BA w/ extra large walk-in closet, french doors lead to private deck and yard, built-in desk looks onto central courtyard, tile floors, smallquiet pets ok, coin laundry, $700/Mo. Call James 305-213-3473 ------------------------------------------------FURNISHED/UNFURNISHED 1/1 FORT LAUDERDALE Quiet unit attached to home w/ sperate entrance, central AC, french doors, HW floors, fenced yard, hurricane windows, kitchennette w/ micro, fridge, no stove. $750/Mo. includes electric, cable and internet. Non-smokers, 1 person occupancy. Call 954-707-0264 ------------------------------------------------$700 DOWNTOWN / SAILBOAT BEND Quiet, small complex. 1BD/1BA. Large walk-in closet, fully carpeted (new 2009).

Living room, dining area, kitchen, FREE hot water, NEW A/C, LOW electricity bills, assigned parking, **MOVE-IN SPECIAL** $700/Mo. 954-249-0874 or 513-257-1760 ------------------------------------------------WILTON MANORS AREA 1BR/1BA Cottage with Private Fenced Yard in Gay Complex. Ceramic Tile Throughout, New Kitchen, Pet’s OK. F/L/S $895/Mo. Call Frank 954-816-2566 ------------------------------------------------NE FTL APARTMENTS AVAILABLE - EFFICIENCIES, STUDIOS & 1BDS FURNISHED/UNFURNISHED Walk/bike to beach, shopping, downtown.

Pets OK. On-site laundry facility, private patio areas & plenty of off-street parking. $625-$850/Mo. All utilities included. Call 954-520-2353 ------------------------------------------------NORTH ANDREWS TERRACE 2BD/1BA HOUSE Central AC, kitchen equipped, W/D hookup, carport, pets ok, fenced back yard, $1,000/Mo. + Sec., 1yr. lease.

Call 954-383-0359 ------------------------------------------------LAKERIDGE- NICE QUIET 1/1 GARDEN APT. Newly remodeled. Close to Wilton Manors, downtown and beach. Includes utilities, premier cable and hi-speed internet.

Available weekly or monthly. Call Jeff 954-593-6833 ------------------------------------------------SAILBOAT BEND - DOWNTOWN NEAR RIVERWALK Large 1BD/1BA, tile floors, AC, ceiling fans, walk-in closet, laundry room, $725/ Mo. Call 410-251-0061 ------------------------------------------------STUNNING 3BD/2.5BA ON DEEP WATER IN PRIME CORAL RIDGE Ultra contemporary bungalow, high-end finishes, approx 2,300sqft., arcitectual details, oversized master bathroom w/ double jaccusi, steamroom, W/D, heated pool, 90’ dock, ocean access. $3,500/Mo. Includes lawn/pool maint. Utilities extra.

Call 954-336-8043

------------------------------------------------MIDDLE RIVER HOMES CONDO RENTAL Furnished 2 bedroom 2 bath with washer/ dryer in unit. Pet friendly, completely furnished and move in ready ! $1,200 per month. 3 month minimum commitment.

Call Jimmy Cunningham Licensed Real Estate Agent Castelli RE Services 953.303.7380.

Rentals Broward Other Rentals Oakland Park 1BD/1BA IN OAKLAND PARK - 1 MILE FROM WILTON DRIVE Central AC, W/D, ceiling fan, eat-in kitchen, dishwasher, $750/Mo. Call 954-818-9422 ------------------------------------------------EAST OAKLAND PARK 1BR/1BA Duplex with nice private patio, tropical landscaping, enclosed yard with pets, near Wilton Manors and beach.

East of Dixie Highway. Lots of charm.

Pets welcome with approval. Satelite, water, garbage included $795/mo. 954632-6662 ------------------------------------------------EFFICIENCY APT EAST OAKLAND PARK, MINUTES TO WILTON DRIVE Great neighborhood, safe, quiet, Private entrance, 4 large windows. Non-smoker, no pets $700/Mo. plus one month security 954-561-7174 ------------------------------------------------CONVENIENT OAKLAND PARK LOCATION Large bright 1BD/1BA with enclosed yard! Freshly painted, ceramic tile throughout. Near Wilton Manors and beaches. Central heating and air, laundry on premises, 2 parking spaces, pet welcome with approval! $750/ mo. Water, garbage included 404-401-7042.

Rentals Palm Beach DELRAY BEACH DOWNTOWN 2BD/1BA, central air, fenced yard, parking, pets ok, $850/Mo. + utilities. F/S. Call 305-296-7744

Rentals Wilton Manors WILTON MANORS - $1,095/MO. + TWO (2) FREE MONTHS! Large 2BD/1BA on NE 16th Street: Central AC! W/D, Kitchen w/ big fridge and DW. Nice backyard. No Pool. No Dogs. Please call Yoshi at 954-854-7711. Thanks!

------------------------------------------------MANOR GROVE APT. 1BD/1BA w/ huge bedroom and large living room, laminated floors, bathroom: brand new vanity and medicine cabinet, refurbished shower/tub, new tile floors, very large walk-in closet, kitchen, dining area: brand new micro and stove, pantry, new countertops & hardware. Lots of cabinets. Central air, laundry, park, pool, clubhouse, locker room. Newly painted throughout. 12th month FREE. $750/Mo. Call 414-331-4017 ------------------------------------------------2 AND 1 BEDROOM APTS NEAR SHOPPES OF WILTON MANORS Huge 2 Bedroom ~ 2 Full Baths~2 Large Walk-in Closets~ Over 1,000 sf of Fully Tiled Living Space~Dishwasher~New Cabinets~Onsite Laundry~Gated Private Complex~Gay Friendly~Small Private Yard~$1,000 Per Month~Wilton Manors 1 Bedroom Apt~Tile Throughout~Conveniently Located near Stork’s or GLCC. Starting at $775 ------------------------------------------------2BD/2BA IN MANOR GROVE Brand new kitchen w/ stainless appliances and granite counter tops and new wood floors, updated bathrooms, available either June 1st or July 1st. $1,250/ Mo. Unfurnished (furnished avail). Call 954-812-8121 ------------------------------------------------WILTON MANORS RENOVATED STUDIO Nice full kitchen w/ stove, nice bathroom, A/C, tile, W/D, private & fenced. Walk to shops, clubs and park. $500/Mo. $800 moves you in. All utilities paid. 954-3251591 Jason

HOLLYWOOD Private house has 2 rooms for rent.

Larger is $550, smaller is $500 per month, plus 1/2 month for deposit. Must share bathroom. Located off N. Park Road between Taft and Johnson Sts. Men and women are welcome to inquire. Please call Joe at 401.473.7859 or email at Jleon76486@aol.com. Available now.

Roommates Broward Other 55+ COMMUNITY IN POMPANO Retired gentleman looking for rommmate, non-smoker, no drugs, discreet lifestyle, credit check, $350/Mo. Call 954-941-3192 ------------------------------------------------HOLLYWOOD YOUNGER GAY ROOMMATE WANTED Share a 3BD house with hot tub, full use of house. Close to downtown. $400/Mo. Including Utilities. Sal 954-536-6901

Roommates Fort Lauderdale FORT LAUDERDALE/A1A Ocean view. Share luxury accommodations. 2BD/2BA condo. $600/Mo. Includes TV, Utilities, Internet Connection, Pool.

LOW MOVE IN. NS/DDF. Call 954-907-9564 ------------------------------------------------FURNISHED ROOM, IN HOUSE, ON THE WATER Includes all utilities, internet and cable, use of pool and kitchen, W/D, $600/Mo. Contact Rob or Mark 954-792-1761

Roommates Oakland Park 2BD/1BA - PRIVATE COMPLEX - OAKLAND PARK Gay male to share w/same. Your private room has cable and internet. Quiet complex has a clothing optional pool, laundry facilities, BBQ, close to I-95 & Wilton Manor. $575/mo incl.Util. 561-302-5218 ------------------------------------------------OAKLAND PARK CONDO SHARE Private BR/BA, walk-in closet, internet, HDTV, W/D, 3 pools, gym. Parking, minutes to Wilton Manors. Non-smoker/ drugs. $500/Mo. Bob 954-717-9906

Roommates Palm Beach SHARE A 2BD/2.5BA CONDO IN LANTANA On the intercoastal, gated community w/ pool, tennis, fishing dock, sauna. Looking for a mature person, drug-free, smoking allowed, furnished room, $600/Mo. + Sec. Call 561-281-5012

Roommates Wilton Manors ROOMATE WANTED FOR CLOTHING OPTIONAL POOL HOME IN WILTON MANORS 3BD/2BA. Must be dog friendly. Access to laundry facilities. Furnished Bedroom $600/Mo. per month includes maid service twice a month. Please call Robert at 954-401-1726.

------------------------------------------------LOOKING FOR ROOMMATE to share a 1BD apt. Must have drivers license and work reference.

Call 954-537-2616

Body Rubs SENSUAL MASSAGE Indulge yourself in relaxation and stimulation with a full body Sensual Massage.

Provided in the nude by a handsome mature man in an intimate spa like environment. Gay-Bi-Straight men welcomed.

Convenient NE Ft. Lauderdale location.

Discretion assured. Ryan 954-593-6637 www.RyanMassage.weebly.com ------------------------------------------------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 ------------------------------------------------***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 ------------------------------------------------SORRY I MISSED YOUR CALL! I was out of town but now I’m back in Palm Beach County and ready to rub, sooth, relax and release your stress away. Handsome, fit, hairy-chested, mature man with salt and pepper hair and a winning smile. 6’1” 180lbs and 9 X 6 uncut. A true nice guy with NO attitude.

What are you waiting for? Satisfaction is only a call away. 561-333-0115 IN calls: $75. 10AM - 9PM, out calls $100 in the West Palm Beach area ONLY. ------------------------------------------------BLACK GUY 4 EROTIC RUBS Experience the touch of a Caribbean black male. Masculine and discreet. In/ Out. 24/7. Damian 786-270-7745 ------------------------------------------------DAD FOR YOUR PLEASURE Tony Studonne, 65 YO Handsome Dad, Stocky Italian w/ silver hair, 7.5” Uncut & Thick! A Rub To Remember! $60 - 10AM 3PM ONLY. Call and ask for Tony 954-7706117 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 ------------------------------------------------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 ------------------------------------------------TOP TO BOTTOM BODY RUB Offering a sensual rubdown by a 51 year old top, 5’9”, 175lbs, hung thick and long. $50/hour. Wilton Manors Location. Call Jason 954-551-0700 ------------------------------------------------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 ------------------------------------------------GOT STRESS? GET TANTRIC! Experience a stimulative & sensual, bare naked full bodyrub that promises relief.

Me: 37y/o, smooth slender dude with nice butt. Reasonable rates! contact.

Tucker 754-779-8911 or 954-647-0485 ------------------------------------------------ASIAN INDIAN BOY 30 years old Handsome Boy for erotic rub down. Tantric work too Call 954-394-4150 for apt. anytime. In & Out. ------------------------------------------------GET RUBBED RIGHT Wilton Manors Full body work from head to toe Therapeutic, Swedish, Lite-Med-Deep Tissue randy4massage@aol.com masseurfinder.com/Randy 954-471-2211 ------------------------------------------------RELAXATION Treat yourself to a professional massage by a strong, attractive, masculine man.

Erik. Outcalls only. WBP to Ft. Laud. 561533-9415 LIC#MA27154

------------------------------------------------***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 ------------------------------------------------BACK FROM NEW YORK Massage soothes and relaxes tension.

Danish male with great legs! Coral Springs location. Toys available. Call Kurt 561-202-7880 ------------------------------------------------BODYWORK BY TOMMY C.M.T.-REAL MASSAGE WITH AN EDGE TRAINED, EXPERIENCED, INTUITIVE, THERAPEUTIC/SENSUAL, CERTIFIED MASSAGE. TABLE, SWEDISH, SPORTS, DEEP. 10AM-11PM. $100 HR PALM BEACH, BROWARD AND MIAMI. MORE INFO, PICS, REVIEWS HERE: WWW.MASSEURFINDER.COM/BODYWORKBYTOMMY ------------------------------------------------BLACK EROTIC MASSEUR VISITING! 25yo, 6ft 1in, 175lbs Brown and smooth all over. Available for Erotic massage sessions. Specialize in Swedish/Deep tissue massage. Call Avon to arrange appt.

443-801-6438

Body Shaving & Trimming 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 ------------------------------------------------MANSCAPING SPECIALIST - TAKING CARE OF ALL THE HARD PARTS That you can’t take care of yourself.

Trimming and shaving. $50/Hour. Wilton Manors. Jason 954-551-0700 ------------------------------------------------MANHOLE MANSCAPING Intimate hair grooming and shaving.

Stimulating, sensual and safe. Call Jim 954-258-2584 Manscaping@live.com ------------------------------------------------LEE IS BACK IN WILTON MANORS! A great body rub. $50/hour. Body waxing and/or shaving, $1/minute. Men’s hair cuts $25. Ladies hair cuts $45. All types of hair coloring starting at $65. All in the privacy of my home. Call Lee 954-566-8381

MODELS DISCRETION GUARANTEED Hot, Sexy, Handsome, Masculine, Latin stud available. 5’’10, 175 lbs. 32 waist.

Great Smooth skin and Muscular physique.

Great companion. ALL TYPES WELCOME. All scenes considered. Fetishes, kink, couples,straight, first timers welcome.

Safe only! In / Out. Call Tony 954-604-3980 ------------------------------------------------BATMAN Hot, ripped TOP, masculine, muscular, lean machine will exceed your expectations. Zero body fat, 6’1”, 191lbs, 32” waist. Call 24/7. IN/OUT. Friend available.

Call Travis 954-461-8161

------------------------------------------------THICK LATIN TOOL Naturally smooth, well built 5’ 10”, 155lbs, 7.5 x 6.5 beautiful thick cut tool big shaved nuts. Daily runner, strong legs, tight ass. exxtrathick@hotmail.com Marcus @ 305-772-2099 or 954-463-7685.

------------------------------------------------YOUR DESIRES IN TOTAL RAPTURE Gay black male, 6’2”, 190 lbs., athletic build, 9” thick cut, TOP GUY. Achieve your climax experience. Wendell 954-646-6222, 24 hrs., discreet. Specializing in body rubs, hair trimming, shaving and waxing.

ONLY SERIOUS INQUIRIES PLEASE. ------------------------------------------------10 IN VERSATILE TATTOOED JOCK 24yo, 5’10, 160lbs, blonde hair, green eyes, smooth/shaved everywhere, 13 tattoos, 10 in cut, big balls, pink hole, versatile, lean/muscular. Friendly/affectionate. Into anything from vanilla to kink.

3-somes available with my 18 y/o blonde brother. 954-462-3394. www.mattsapartment.com ------------------------------------------------I AM A 5’8” 170LBS, YOUNG MILITARY DUDE! 28yo Cuban-Puertorrican, strong top, tan skin, light eyes, straight looking, no attitude, very good looking face, awesome body, BIG DICK! Discreet! Have a boyfriend experience. I go 2 gym 5 days a week for you! Couples welcome (gay or str8) Miami, Fort Lauderdale, West Palm Beach. $150 IN/OUT 24/7. Hotels & Fetishes OK. Call Alex, I always answer.

786-319-7665

Adult Phone Lines STRICTLY SEX! 18+ Use Ad # 3211 305-651-0051 954-587-6050 561-689-5700 772-293-9125 407-895-0003 ------------------------------------------------WHERE HOT MEN HOOKUP! Call: 786-364-7728 or 800-777-8000 FREE w/ CODE 9954 www.InteractiveMale.com ------------------------------------------------CALL HARDLINE AND TRY IT FOR FREE NOW! 18+ Hot, Horny, Hung, Bi Studs Ripped Muscle Jocks Big Daddy Musclebears Bi College Fratboy’s 305-455-6969 954-334-5555 Other cities: 1-877-510-3344

Adult Websites WHO’S YOUR DADDY? Go to www.DateADaddy.com and find out! A Place For Mature Gay Men & Their Younger Admirers. Free online dating & community site, Sign Up Now! Customercare@DateADaddy.com

38

May 31 , 2010 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

Wilton Manors Main Street continued from page 2

has been in Wilton Manors since 1977. She is currently a president of the Wilton Manors Historical Society and a vice-president of Wilton Manors Main Street, Inc. She has worked with Tabor and Blevins since the beginning.

Her speech was emotional, but this did not get in the way of her careful, thought-out words.

“Trees don’t kill, cars and speed do,” she said to cheers from the crowd at City Hall.

She reflected on the initial widening of the Drive in 1983.

“I was president of city council then. We had meetings with property and business owners and residents. The $1 million dollar cost was to be shared by property, business owners and the city,” Cline stated. “By befriending a state legislator at that time, the state gave us a million dollars.”

The money turned out to be a Trojan horse. After giving the funds to Wilton Manors, the state then “dictated every nuance of how the drive was to look.”

She said that, 12 years later, after the initial islands went on the drive, the city “swept in” and uprooted the shade trees that made the drive a cool, attractive place to walk at

midday. She is happy the City Council has decided to rejuvenate the Drive.

Maciel Cantelmo and Tommy LaFashia, who own Gallery XO on Wilton Drive, were also present and feel that taking back the drive is a step in the right direction for reasons of safety, appearance and increasing pedestrian foottraffic, which will allow businesses to grow.

“As property owners and residents of Wilton Manors it’s exciting to see our city commission step up to the plate and do what’s right for all of us,” said Cantelmo and LaFaschia. “We look forward to working closely with the city, Main Street group and a task force to evaluate a proper way to take the drive back. Wilton Manors is on the verge of becoming an even greater and more exciting city to live and work in.”

Readers who wish to contribute to the civic welfare of the city by giving their input to the Main Street initiative can do so by attending a town hall meeting on June 15, arranged by the city to discuss the plan and other items of interest to the city.

For more information, visit Wiltonmanorsmainstreet.org

39

May 31 , 2010 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

Q Scopes By Jack Fertig

JESSE’S JOURNAL

Get out of town, Libra!

The Evolution of Rabbi Greg Kanter

With Mercury entering Gemini, you could get some rational insight into current epochal shifts to articulate the necessary changes. As arguments heat up, try to keep calm with an open mind and heart.You could learn something important from opponents. That won’t be easy!

ARIES (March 20 – April 19): Open arguments in order to learn.

If you can let your opponents do most of the talking, you may give them lots of rope or learn better how to advance your own position.

TAURUS (April 20 – May 20): Write down a short play about your banker and your boss for clues about the work you need to do to get your affairs and career in order. Trust your intuition for information; think twice before acting on it.

GEMINI (May 21- June 20): Revisit family histories.Your spiritual growth since childhood will give fresh perspectives to those old stories. Listen to friends with daring ideas for your career. Take those as diamonds in the rough and polish them up.

LIBRA (September 23 – October 22): Get out of town. Find a serene, meditative place where you can assess your situation in solitude. A new acquaintance – a masseur or a healer? – can help you to work out problems both physical and spiritual.

SCORPIO (October 23 – November 21): Your critical observations of your family or community will upset some people. That’s better than letting problems fester, but try to be tactful and foresightful when you raise tough issues. New approaches to work and exercise will also improve your outlook.

SAGITTARIUS (November 22 – December 20): Your efforts to talk with your partner and colleagues can come off way too strongly. Go easy and remember to listen carefully. Play in a sport you’re not familiar with to learn a little humility and gain other insights.

CANCER (June 21- July 22): Turn worries into concrete actions – and if you can’t do anything about it, meditate on acceptance.

A terrific opportunity may seem too good to be true. Don’t pass it CAPRICORN (December 21 up, but see if you might approach it – January 19): Picky little details – from a different angle. and others who work with them – can really jangle your nerves.You’d LEO (July 23 – August 22):Your rather focus on the big picture, but social schedule is overburdened, you need to deal with the minuforcing you to pick and choose. tiae. A big surprise from home will It’s not just about having fun. Sit help you think in new directions. and think about which events are important and will serve you. Be AQUARIUS (January 20 – Febpragmatic and take a long view. ruary 18): Playful banter can cross lines too easily. Hang out with VIRGO (August 23 – September friends who have thick skins and 22): Rational logic points the way raunchy humor. If you are shocked you need to go, but intuition and by their responses, follow those meditation show you the steps lines of thought to better undernecessary now. A very annoying standing of your own sexuality. colleague now may have your interest at heart or not, but pay PISCES (February 19 – March attention and learn something 19): Hiding out from domestic important. stress solves nothing. Be charitable and empathetic. Those are your strong suits! A financial shock could be a blessing in disguise, Solution to Crossword teaching you strength you didn’t Puzzle on page 32 know you had and a better sense of who your friends really are.

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 website at www.starjack.com, and by e-mail at QScopes@qsyndicate.com.

By Jesse Monteagudo

I

n South Florida’s transient LGBT community, a person may be a leader one day and gone the next day. A decade ago, our community’s most important religious leaders were the Right Rev. Grant Lynn Ford, Senior Pastor of the Sunshine Cathedral Metropolitan Community Church, and Rabbi Greg Kanter of Congregation Etz Chaim.

Next week I will follow Rev. Ford’s personal and spiritual odyssey from Fort Lauderdale to Jacksonville. This week I discuss Rabbi Kanter’s new career as the spiritual leader of a “mainstream” South Florida synagogue.

Rabbi Gregory J. Kanter served Congregation Etz Chaim as its rabbi from 1995 to 2002. After he left Etz Chaim, Rabbi Kanter founded and led Jewish Light, a now-defunct chavurah [Jewish prayer group] with an outreach to interfaith households, families, singles and couples regardless of sexual orientation.

Kanter also conducted weddings and funerals and performed other services for Jewish individuals and South Florida synagogues. Among those synagogues was Temple Sinai of Palm Beach County, a Reform congregation in Delray Beach founded in 1978: “Temple Sinai hired me to lead a Passover Seder at a time when they were between rabbis,” Kanter says. “It worked out very well and they kept asking me back to lead services on a part-time basis. Eventually, they invited me for an interview when they were ready to consider hiring full-time again.”

The interview turned out well and Kanter was installed as rabbi on November 14, 2008.

With over 500 members, Temple Sinai is a “mainstream” synagogue, with mostly straight members. Has Rabbi Kanter’s sexual orientation ever been an is-

sue? “Not really,” he assures me.

“I am completely out and I made sure it was on the table in my interview, and they were quite clear that they already knew and that it wasn’t a big deal. I pushed and made

Rabbi Greg Kanter

sure they knew that it was important that my partner was completely welcomed and we planned to start a family that I want to be a part of the synagogue and they couldn’t have been more thrilled. My office has pictures of my entire family on display and, if anything, they wish the kids would come around more often. It’s like they have a few hundred bubbes [grandmothers]!”

“Interestingly,” Kanter continues, “my ‘mainstream’ synagogue is completely welcoming of everyone, while my previous LGBT congregation made membership a priority for LGBT people and was more reluctant to the idea of being more welcoming to a larger ‘mainstream’ membership. Temple Sinai added a pride flag to their home page with a welcoming message and

encourages me to partner with Compass, the Gay and Lesbian Community Center of the Palm Beaches. I loved the other congregations I served and I love Temple Sinai. They’re all different and that’s OK. Every synagogue is a little different and people just need to find the place that’s best for their needs, just like rabbis do. At this point in my life, Temple Sinai is the best place in the world for me and my family.”

On the other hand, Kanter does not think Temple Sinai’s LGBT members chose that synagogue because it has a gay Rabbi. “Members at any temple just want to know that their Rabbi cares. Other things may be important to different people, but it all comes down to the same thing. I love Temple Sinai.”

Now residing in Delray Beach, Rabbi Kanter shares a home with his partner, Mike, and two beautiful children.

“When I am not working, I spend every moment I can with my family. My family and Temple Sinai are my priorities. My kids are little, so since I work full-time, I like to be there for as much of their growing-up as I can. Being their father is the biggest adventure of my lifetime and I want to do it right. Honestly, between Temple Sinai and my family by the end of the day, I am happy and I am lucky if there’s time or energy for anything else.”

Rabbi Kanter’s love for the congregation that he leads is obvious to everyone who encounters it. As he expressed on the Temple Sinai Web site (Templesinaipbc.org): “It has been my privilege to officiate and counsel in a way that brings education, healing and comfort to communities and individuals. I seek to share my love of Torah, Am Yisrael [the People of Israel] and Tikkun Olam [repairing the world] with the entire community.”

Rabbi Kanter’s devotion to Temple Sinai (and vice versa) is one that is sure to endure for many years to come.

Jesse Monteagudo (jessemonteagudo@aol. com) is SFGN’s Senior Feature Correspondent.

40

May 31 , 2010 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

F lorida

A uto

G roup

S outh

F.A.G.S and Their Classic Rides

By A. Sebastian Fortino

with the Stonewall Pride celebration.

F.A.G.S. is a local our car says a lot about you, or chapter of the so I’m told.When it comes to members of Florida Auto Group Lambda Car Club International, and it South—with will supply clasits playful sic cars for acronym, the StoneF.A.G.S.— wall parade. their rides “Whatever say they they ask for we are classic-car provide, mostly,” enthusiasts.

F.A.G.S. President Adam Walder took over Walder says. “We supply convertibles for dignitaries and the position this past January. “I have been local celebrities. But it’s a very big mix of with them for seven years. Somebody approached me when I was with my ’85 Cadillac cars and guys.”

Car enthusiasts in the group have everyEl Dorado, telling me about the group. Now I thing, including classic cars from the 1950s, have an ’85 Gucci edition Cadillac Seville.”

The coach hood of the deluxe white car such as Packards and “beautiful old Caddys.”

Paul Guzenscki, is indeed framed a resident of Palm with the famed Beach County, joined interlocking Gucci in 2003 after seeing logo. This beats the a F.A.G.S. auto show distinction of wearin the parking lot in ing a pair of Gucci front of Georgie’s loafers and cerAlibi. While he was tainly trumps toting unable to stop and one of their bags. ogle, he did some research online and The group’s tenth anniversary on the signed up to be part of their next show. weekend from June 18-20 will coincide

Y

“I bought this old Ford,” said Guznescki.

“The one I had at the time was a ‘73 Ford LTD, named Barnaby. I name all my cars.

This one was named Barnaby, after the TV show Barnaby Jones.”

The car is so named because it is identical to the car that the title character, played by Buddy Epson, drove in the show. “I also have a white, with blue coach top, ’89 Lincoln Towncar, named Gayelle,” he added wryly.

Guzenscki tries to attend all of the group’s events. He cites the warmth of the other members and their mutual classic-car enthusiasm as incentives to join. The events at gay resorts, to which members surely drive their favorite autos, are a big plus for Guzenscki, a CPA for Palm Beach County government.

The group’s website boasts events listings, and perhaps

most important, a photo gallery showing off members and their swanky automobiles. Their next event, coinciding with Stonewall and their tenth anniversary, will be hosted at the Schubert Hotel, with a dinner that Friday, June 18, at La Bamba, and a car display on Saturday at the host hotel. Then, of course, some of the cars will join the procession at the Stonewall Parade.

Walder says his mission is to make the group even more fun for members and enthusiasts.

“We needed to make some changes, to freshen things up a little bit by adding new events to attract new members. An important factor about the group is that you don’t have to own a classic car to join.You just have to admire vintage and classic cars.”

For more information, visit FlamingoAutoGroupSouth.com