06/28/10 V1I23 by South Florida Gay News

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June 28, 2010 • VOLUME 1 • ISSUE 23

Kylie T

Page 25

10 Gay Candidates

Shake Up Florida 13 15 20

Page 6

INSIDE THIS ISSUE

page

Gay Polo Video

page

Is McDonald’s Gay Friendly?

page Summer Getaways

Summer Reading

June 28, 2010 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

Local News

Pride Center at Equality Park Rebrands Introduces New Image and Website

June 28, 2010 • Volume 1 • Issue 23

Editorial Offices 2520 N. Dixie Highway • Wilton Manors, FL 33305 Phone: 954-530-4970 FAX: 954-530-7943

Norm Kent Publisher and Editor in Chief publishernorm@southfloridagaynews.com Pier Angelo Guidugli

By Joey Amato

Paul Hyman For further information, visit Pridecenterflorida.org.

fter months of meeting with local marketing and public relations executives, the Pride Center at Equality Park has unveiled its new look and website. In an effort to streamline its image and increase marketing initiatives, the organization decided to rebrand itself through an extensive campaign consisting of web and print advertising and public relations. The campaign will ensure the organization’s new image is consistent with its overall objectives. “We are strengthening our efforts to expand our reach into the local, regional and national communities,” says Paul Hyman, executive director of the Pride Center. Hyman hopes the new campaign will serve as a catalyst to increase financial support. “Our main goals are to increase traffic to our website and increase awareness of the Pride Center at Equality Park,” he says. The growth of these two

elements will hopefully lead to an increase in donors, volunteers and community awareness. “As the leading LGBT destination in the country, we feel that visitors as well as residents of Greater Fort Lauderdale need a place they can call home. The Pride Center at Equality Park will be home,” says Robert Boo, director of development for the organization. “In addition, we would like to become the region’s LGBT Visitors Center.” The center recently opened the second floor of its building and, additionally, is the new home to seven LGBT non-profit organizations, including Diplomat Pharmacy, CenterLink (the International Association of LGBT Community Centers), SunServe, Women in Network, SAGE, University of Delaware and Church of the Holy Spirit Song. “Additionally, more than 50 groups meet at the center each month, making our campus the epicenter for LGBT activity,” says Hyman.

Chief Executive Officer Vice President, Sales. . . . . . . Cliff Dunn cliff.dunn@southfloridagaynews.com Creative Director. . . . . . . . . George Dauphin george.dauphin@southfloridagaynews.com Online Website Director. . . . Dennis Jozefowicz

Editorial Managing Editor . . . . . . . . . Joey Amato joey.amato@southfloridagaynews.com Copy Editor. . . . . . . . . . . . . Penn Bullock penn.bullock@southfloridagaynews.com

News Editor. . . . . . . . . . . . . Jarrett Terrill jarrett.t@southfloridagaynews.com

Lifestyle & Features Editor. . A. Sebastian Fortino sebastian.fortino@southfloridagaynews.com Arts/Entertainment Editor . . Mary Damiano marysfgn@gmail.com SFGNites Editor. . . . . . . . . . JW Arnold Health/HIV Editor. . . . . . . . Paul Gallotta Business Editor . . . . . . . . . . Richard Gary Senior Feature Correspondent. . . . . . . . . . . Jesse Monteagudo Correspondent. . . . . . . . . . . Steve Fritz Contributing Columnists. . . Tony Adams, Wayne Besen, AJ Cross, Deb Price, Brian McNaught, Patricia Nell Warren

Sales Display Marketing Associates. Joyce Bluestein John Fugate Brian Swinford Classified Advertising. . . . . . Mike Trottier classifieds@hotspotsmagazine.com 954-928-1862 National Sales Representative. . . . . . . . Rivendell Media todd@rivendellmedia.com Distribution Manager. . . . . . John Fugate 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

June 28, 2010 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com Gay Rights

Gay Rights Activist Gets His Own Street By Penn Bullock

lenn Beck hasn’t thrown a fuss about it yet, but it’s probably only a matter of time. On June 11, leading figures in Washington D.C. renamed a downtown street in honor of Dr. Frank Kameny, one of America’s first gay-rights activists. Kameny was one of the original members of the Mattachine Society, a secretive gay group in the 1950s that modeled itself after Alcoholics Anonymous and the Communist Party. Indeed, many of its first cellmembers were communists, making them double renegades – gays weren’t welcome in the Communist Party anymore than they were in capitalist America. In 1956, Kameny was fired from the Army Map Center, where he worked as an astronomer, because it was illegal to stargaze for the government as a gay person. He

Dr. Frank Kameny

fought the dismissal all the way to the Supreme Court; it rejected his petition, but the case was historic as the first challenge to discrimination based on sexual orientation. His fight didn’t end there. Kameny remained a leading rabble-rouser for gay rights. His Supreme Court case in 1957 came full circle in 2009, when Dave Berry—who, as head of personnel in the federal government, is the highest-ranking LGBT official in the Obama Administration—apologized to Kameny for the firing. Berry was on hand to rename the downtown street Frank Kameny Way. It can’t be long before Glenn Beck senses a pinko conspiracy in it all.

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June 28, 2010 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

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June 28, 2010 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

Local News

Tuesday’s Angels Donates Over $100,000 Supports Children’s Diagnostic & Treatment Center By Joey Amato

uesday’s Angels continues its longstanding support of the Children’s Diagnostic & Treatment Center with over $100,000 in donations for the CDTC “Kids to Camp” program over the past ten years. Its $10,000 donation this year will assist in sending 50 children living with HIV/AIDS to Camp Hope in Houston, Texas. This special camp provides children with the opportunity to have a fun summer experience with other children living with the disease. The campers return with stories and memories that last them their lifetimes and with a renewed resolve to face the health challenges they live with every day. In addition, Tuesday’s Angels has provided much needed support throughout the years to CDTC’s clients living with HIV/ AIDS by assisting with a variety of expenses such as utility bills, transportation, rent and mortgage assistance, funerals, eyes glasses and other basic needs. “We are immensely grateful to Tuesday’s Angels for their steadfast support of our Comprehensive Family AIDS Program. With

our community being pulled in many directions to support so many worthy causes, it is reassuring to know that Tuesday’s Angels has made our Kids to Camp drive so dear to their hearts,” said Susan Widmayer, Ph.D., executive director of CDTC. According to Immediate Past President Chuck Nicholls, “Tuesday’s Angels takes exceptional pleasure in working with CDTC over the past decade. Our future depends on the opportunity our children are given today… In essence, we are investing in our youth. By sending the kids to summer camp we hope to expand their hopes and extend their horizons for a better tomorrow.” Tuesday’s Angels is a not-for-profit organization that provides assistance to children and women with HIV/AIDS. 100 percent of all money received goes to people living with HIV /AIDS, many of whom are often unable to work and are frequently hospitalized. Over three hundred “angels” comprise the organization, which hosts dinner meetings on the first Tuesday of each month. To learn more, visit Tuesdaysangels.org.

Dr. Susan Widmayer, Executive Director, CDTC; Mr. Chuck Nicholls, Immediate Past President, Tuesday’s Angels

June 28, 2010 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

CAMPAIGN

A N A LY S I S

B y J a r rett Terr ill

10 Gay Candidates

Shake Up South Florida

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Democrat Florida Senate Campaign Opponent Incumbent: Mel Martinez (R)

Democrat Congressional District 17 Opponent Incumbent: None (left open by

Kevin Burns

Kevin Burns, if elected, would be the first openly gay U.S. Senator. He is currently the mayor of North Miami and has been popular for his pro-education efforts and creating business opportunity in the area.

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Bob Kunst Independent Congressional District 20 Opponent Incumbent: Debbie Wasserman Schultz (D)

Bob Kunst is rather famous in the LGBT community for his long history of advocacy for gay and Jewish people. He staged the original boycott of Florida orange juice to protest Anita Bryant’s anti-gay efforts. Most recently, he led a campaign opposing Barack Obama over Hillary Clinton for the Democratic nomination.

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Donna Milo Republican Congressional District 20 Opponent Incumbent: Debbie Wasserman Schultz (D)

Scott Galvin

of local organizations including the Sierra Club, the NAACP, the Wilton Manors Historical Society and the Sunshine Cathedral (MCC). He is among the most active in the Dolphin Democrats, an organization which has helped many LGBT candidates run for office in South Florida.

Kendrick Meek)

Twice re-elected as city councilman for North Miami, he was the first sitting elected official in Florida to announce that he was gay. Galvin is on the board at AIDS Healthcare Foundation (AHF). With some irony, he will be running against Frederica Wilson, whose HIV-related town-hall discussion was covered in SFGN last week.

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Ken Keechl Democrat Broward County Commission – District 4 Current Incumbent

Ken Keechl is the current peer-elected county mayor in the Broward County Commission. He is an attorney with another degree in history and has sat on a number of local governmental advisory boards. He is a Founders Circle member of the Pride Center at Equality Park. His Republican opposition has been relentless in pursuing his seat on the commission.

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Justin Flippen

Donna Milo has the distinction of being the only transgender woman running for Congress in the U.S. so far. However, her candidacy is made controversial by her opposition to gay marriage and the heavily Democratic district she’s running in.

Democrat State House Representative – District 92 Opponent Incumbent: Gwyndolen Clarke-Reed (D)

Flippen is currently the Vice Mayor of Wilton Manors and is active in a number

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Tony Japour Republican State House Representative – District 107 Opponent Incumbent: Luis R. Garcia, Jr. (D)

A former researche r at Abbott Laboratories, Japour helped to develop drugs that combat HIV. He has an extensive medical background that includes emergency preparedness, infectious disease control and public policy/planning. Japour is also a patron of the arts and runs an internet-based business that deals privately in contemporary fine art.

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John Adornato

NPA Oakland Park City Commission – Seat 4 Opponent Incumbent: Layne Dallett Walls (NPA)

Treasurer of the North Andrews Neighborhood Association, Adornato was instrumental in the inclusion of North Andrews Gardens into the City of Oakland Park via annexation. He has a love for the environment, advocates green spaces and actively participates in the security of park preservation. Adornato is also a member of the Fort Lauderdale Frontrunners, a popular athletic running group.

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Lisa Porter NPA Circuit Court Judge Current Incumbent

Judge Lisa Porter has served for 22 years in her capacities as a judge and previously a prosecuting attorney for the state of Florida. As a state attorney she worked under the leadership of Generals Bob Butterworth, Charlie Crist and Bill McCollum. Porter aims to continue serving Broward County in the Dependency Division, where she presides over cases involving families with children who have been abused, abandoned or neglected. She is described as patient, fair and always courteous.

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Jim Jackson Democratic School Board – District 7 Opposing Incumbent: Mary Brown

A professor of psychology at St. Petersburg College and formerly at Miami-Dade College, Jackson is a member of the NAACP, Sierra Club, Habitat for Humanity and Stonewall of Pinellas County. Including at schools in Hawaii, Colorado and Florida, Jackson has been a teacher for over 33 years. He is also an avid gardener who spends his free time camping, hiking, snorkeling and spending time outdoors with his two dogs.

June 28, 2010 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

Gay Blood Ban Stays

Beck Starr

No 4th of July for Red Cross, LGBT Leaders

Rea Carey

By Rex Wockner

he U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ Advisory Committee on Blood Safety and Availability decided June 11 to retain the policy that bans blood donation by any man who has had sex with a man at any time, even once, since 1977. In a 9-6 vote, the committee cited a lack of research to support the notion that lifting the ban would not contaminate the blood supply. Incongruously, current policy allows people who have unsafe heterosexual sex with someone who has AIDS to donate blood after a one-year waiting period. Current HIV testing technology can identify a new infection with the virus within about 10 days of transmission. The committee acknowledged that current policy permits “some potentially highrisk donations while preventing some potentially low-risk donations.” It called this state of affairs “suboptimal” and suggested more research into the matter. “This decision is outrageous, irresponsible and archaic,” said Rea Carey, executive director of the National Gay and Lesbian Task Force. “We expect more out of this advisory committee and this administration than to uphold an unnecessarily discriminatory policy from another era.” She said all donors should be “screened appropriately and assessed based on actual behavioral risk independent of their sexual orientation.”

The Red Cross and American Civil Liberties Union agreed. “The American Red Cross is disappointed with the decision made by the (committee) not to recommend a change to the FDA policy of a lifetime deferral for men who have sex with other men,” the organization said. “While the Red Cross is obligated by law to follow the guidelines set forth by the FDA, we also strongly support the use of rational, scientifically based deferral periods that are applied fairly and consistently among donors who engage in similar risk activities.” “Eligibility for donating blood should be based on scientific evidence, not stigmatizing and outdated stereotypes,” added James Esseks, director of the ACLU LGBT & AIDS Project. “We know that many straight people have HIV. If the existing screening methods are sufficient to protect the blood supply from straight people with HIV, then the government needs a really good reason for having a different rule for gay and bisexual men. It’s not clear that it does.” A letter in favor of repeal had been sent to Arthur Bracey, chair of the advisory committee, signed by nine U.S. senators and 33 representatives. The effort was spearheaded by Sens. Mike Quigley (D-Ill.) and John Kerry (D-Mass.). “The safety of our blood supply is of the utmost importance,” the letter said. “With the advances in medicine over the course of the last three decades, we encourage you to look beyond blanket deferrals and consider screening based on real high risk behavior so we can update our blood donation policies from their early 1980s origins. By keeping discriminatory policies on the books and denying willing donors the opportunity to help others, we put the integrity of the blood donation system at risk.”

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June 28, 2010 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

SAVE Dade and YES Institute Celebrate Pride Month U.S. Customs and Border Protection Officers Attend Workshop By Joey Amato

czuk, YES education director: “Many people are fearful of discussore than 55 U.S. ing the topics of gender Customs and Bor and orientation, and der Protection law endo not know how to forcement officers and respond when people administrative personnel declare themselves to be attended a Pride Month gay, lesbian, bisexual, or Celebration workshop pre transgender. By distinsented by SAVE Dade and guishing common myths the Yes Institute at the and stereotypes about port of Miami. gender and orientation, “Over four decades people will have access since Stonewall, and the to making a positive targeting of LGBT individdifference for youth and uals for law enforcement families who may feel abuse remains an issue,” isolated and afraid.” said CJ Ortuno, executive CJ Ortuno Brittney Hoffman, pro director of SAVE Dade. “We are proud to be working with the CBP as gram coordinator at YES Institute, and Lorenzo Torres, a Miami Beach police ofthey celebrated Pride Month.” The purpose of the event was to “edu- ficer, shared how gender and orientation cate our officers and bring awareness of the have impacted their lives, and provided an LGBT community,” reported CPB Miami opportunity for participants to ask questions. CJ Ortuno provided an overview of Seaport Director Ruby Hogan. “Awareness of the LGBT community the inequalities that exist in Florida for will allow CBP to continue to provide pro- people who are lesbian, gay, bisexual, or fessional law enforcement services to all, transgender. Following the workshop, CBP employwhile accomplishing our mission of securing the homeland,” said the director of field ees had an opportunity to interact with LGBT organization representatives, view operations for Miami, Harold Woodward. According to Rachel Sottile, executive di- displays, and obtain information and edurector of YES Institute, and Joseph Zolob- cational materials.

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Jerry Chasen, Esq., LGBT Estate Planning Attorney

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June 28, 2010 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

Gay Youth Get Another Group

Passages

Don Hazlett, of Chardee’s Passes

Pompano Bill

By Penn Bullock

he Toledo Blade has reported that after many months in hospitals and extended care facilities, Donald Hazlett passed away at Hospice of Northwest Ohio on June 23. Born in Ypsilanti, MI on September 17, 1932, he moved to Toledo as a young boy and had lived in many places including Detroit, Imlay City, MI, New Jersey, Philadelphia, and most recently in Fort Lauderdale, before returning to Temperance, MI in 2009. Don was a member of St. Clement Church in Toledo and a supporter of the Police and Sheriff Departments in Ft. Lauderdale. He also belonged to the Knights of Columbus. As a young man, Don joined the Air Force. Upon discharge, he ventured into the hospitality business, opening nightclubs, restaurants and supper clubs in

Don Hazlett

Detroit, Puerto Rico and Fort Lauderdale. In South Florida, Don owned Chardee’s, which has become Bill’s Filling Station. Paul Hugo, co-owner of the Manor remembers Don. “Don was a great friend and a pillar in our community. A no-nonsense kinda guy that everybody loved. He will be sadly missed.”

new organization for youth is sprouting roots in Broward County. Started just over a month ago, the Youth Equality Extension Project (YEEP) aims to get young people involved in the campaign for LGBT rights. Rodigo Labbe, its creative director, is only 21. He’s majoring in political science at Broward College, where he’s the vice president of the Gay-Straight Alliance. This year, he’ll be campaigning to be GSA president—and he has wider ambitions to run for political office in the next few years. YEEP, he says, will focus on overturning the gay adoption ban and winning more antidiscrimination protections for gay workers. It’s in the process of filing for 501(c)(3) status so it can raise money. The group is also seeking federal permission to train members in professional lobbying. For more info, go to facebook.com and search for “The YEEProject.”

“We wanted creative ways to get youth involved,” Labbe says. “Instead of trying to create a social-services environment, we’re trying to create an environment for youth to fight for equality. We’re trying to be an active political movement.” The group is scouting for locations to hold educational skits in September, and hopes to partner with Rock the Vote and local political campaigns. It made its first splash at the Stonewall Street Festival in Wilton Manors, where members, who range in age from 18 to 30, struck up chants for gay rights. Labbe says the Dolphin Democrats have backed the group, and he’s working to hold bi-weekly meetings soon at Fusion on Wilton Drive. For now, get-togethers are held at members’ homes, and participation is growing. The next meeting is on July 14.

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June 28, 2010 â&#x20AC;˘ SouthFloridaGayNews.com

Health Care News

Ryan White Part A Case Management to Relocate

roward County Health Department announced on June 30, all Ryan White Part A Case Management and Mental Health Services currently at the Northwest Health Center will move to the Paul Hughes Health Center. The Paul Hughes Health Center is located at 205 Northwest 6th Avenue in Pompano Beach, 33060. Ryan White Part A Dental Services will remain at the Northwest Health Center. For more information on the Ryan White Part A program call (954) 788-6044. For information on programs and services at the Broward County Health Department visit BrowardCHD.org.

June 28, 2010 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

News Bite

New Federal Ruling Extends Medical Leave to Same Sex Couples

report from the Williams Institute estimates that as many as 100,000 children could be affected by a new federal ruling that extends the Family and Medical Leave Act to allow employees to take unpaid leave to care for children of a same-sex partner, even if the employee has not legally adopted the children. It was reported on Advocate.com last week by Julie Bochner. The stunning photograph of the lesbian family is from their web site, publishing daily updates you can subscribe to via email. According to a news release from the Williams Institute, as many as 100,000 newborn or sick children in 50,000 families will be able to access a second parent’s time to care for them as a result of the U.S. Labor

Department ruling announced Monday. However, the ruling does not allow employees to take time to care for a same-sex partner because the Defense of Marriage Act bans federal recognition of same-sex partners. “The report notes that revising the federal law to allow employees to take unpaid leave to care for their same-sex partners would affect 215,000 families,” says the news release. “Approximately 430,000 individuals would gain the ability to provide greater levels of care for their same-sex partners. The report uses data from the U.S. Census Bureau’s American Community Survey and the Bureau of Labor Statistics to calculate the numbers of families affected.”

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June 28, 2010 â&#x20AC;˘ SouthFloridaGayNews.com

Mental Health

Gay Polo Tourney Posts Online

Above: Introduction to Doctorleight.com

A Local Psychotherapist Offers Summer Seminars By A. Sebastian Fortino

ummer is often a time in which couples and individuals tackle projects around the house. While you might spend time in your own workshop at home, where your tools are kept, preparing to strip a desk or paint the guest room, it might be beneficial to “workshop yourself” during the summer. Dr. Arlen Leight, Ph.D, is a psychotherapist and board-certified clinical sexologist with a practice in Wilton Manors. This summer, he offers four workshops focusing on issues of interest to gay men, although he offers them during the rest of the year as well. “The goal,” Leight said, “is always about growth of the ‘authentic self.’ I work with men not to change who they are, but to help them let go of who they are not. As gay men, we are often pressured to wear so many masks in order to fit in that we end up disguising our true selves.” Workshop titles and focuses include “Authentic Dating 101: Weekend Intensive Workshop,” which Leight promises will discuss new ways to approach dating. He cautions that you must be very openminded. Too often in relationships people shutter themselves from information contrary to the ethics and boundaries they have developed with their partner. While Leight does not believe all gay couples need therapy to construct a positive, well-balanced relationship, he does believe that in some cases it is necessary. If your partner refuses—or is not interested in attending—it might be necessary to seek therapy or counseling to really see what’s not right about your relationship. “My ‘Authentic Dating’ workshop helps men understand what intimacy really is,

helps them get in touch with what they really want, and helps them learn to express their emotions and communicate openly and honestly to establish such a solid foundation for creativity and growth as the partnership unfolds,” Leight said. “Self-Image, Self-Awareness and Self-Actualization” is split into two parts. Section A meets on Thursday evenings from July 29 to September 2. Section B is open to any man who has worked with Dr. Leight before, and wishes to approach the work of selfdiscovery. This self-discovery will be in part met via the photography of Howard Zucker, who SFGN has interviewed before in terms of his “Self-Image Photography.” “At least 50 percent of the men in each group,” usually limited to eight men, “have some sort of breakthrough or major life change during the process,” Leight said. “These range from leaving a job or a relationship that is not working to starting a new passionate business or relationship. The workshop opens new doors that participants had unconsciously shut down, creating possibilities for growth and change.” “Expanding Possibilities” is a continuation of the “Confidence, Self-Esteem and Personal Empowerment Group,” designed as an opportunity for gay men who understand the basic process of establishing a good sense of self. It is open to any men who have worked with Leight before. “We need to get out of our own way,” he added, “to make our lives all they can be. I want for all my clients a life in which they can feel good about themselves and look back in years to come without regret. NOW is the time for action.” For more information, visit Doctorleight.com and click on the workshops tab.

he 1st Annual International Gay Polo League Tournament, which debuted in April at Wellington to cheering crowds and 1,500 spectators, is now available online. Featuring professional polo players, Jeff Blake, Juan Bollini, Joey Casey, and Nic Roldan, and top Gay Polo League players, you can now relive the excitement generated at the Grand Champions Polo Club in Wellington, Florida by heading to the Equestrian Life website. Ki-Juan Minors The 1st Annual International Gay Polo League Tournament was a very intense polo game that came down to the wire. Four teams competed for the title and the last two teams in the final round were Equestrian Life versus bluHorse. Equestrian Life, led by 6-goaler Juan Bollini, edged bluHorse 4-3 to win the championship game. Chip McKenney, founder of the Gay Polo League and Tournament Player explained, “For me, watching these videos bring the excitement, the energy, the power of the sport and the enthusiasm of the crowd all back! So very well done from beginning to end.” To view the video please visit Equestrianlife.com/videos/watch/996

Randi Muster

June 28, 2010 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

SFGN Editorial

6/28/2010

Norm Kent, Publisher

Celebrate the Fourth

ndre Gide once wrote that only those who have been touched by the wings of death will ever truly understand the flight of life. Ten years from the cancer that nearly stole me away from a decade of fantasy baseball and gay publishing, I look back as much as forward when it comes to July 4. Traditionally, I would spend my July 4ths in Big Sur or Provincetown, or an athletic destination where I could bicycle or camp. Now, my idea of camping is when room service is late. Whatever you do on the 4th, there should be a moment to celebrate your freedom as an American; to appreciate the gift of life, and how precious these moments under the sun but above the ground are. You turn 50 and then even 60, and there are lessons in life you want to share. So focus on the things that matter most. Care more about your friends and family than the stock market. Enjoy the pleasures of sunshine and the beauty of falling rain, but do not stand in either too long. Enjoy the experience of each day, treasure it dearly, and always stop to pick up a penny by the curb. Unless a speeding car is coming by. Avoid cheap wine and wicked women, and remember that while two wrongs do not make a right, three do. The good you do comes back to you. But watch yourself. So does the bad. Eat your Cheerios. Be aware that a walk through the valley of most souls will scarcely get your feet wet, but walk anyway. Life, you know, is not a dress rehearsal. But do not walk nude through the valley, or in your neighbor’s swimming pool if he has little children at home. Visit Mykonos, Ibiza, and your mom on Mother’s Day. Believe in the Lone Ranger. Use athlete’s foot powder. Excel whenever you can. Be kind to ex-lovers and experts because even

they can be right once in a blue moon. Occasionally, check in with God for advice, but remember Taylor Lautner is very busy these days. Avoid white bread, but eat your greens, though keep in mind more people died from bad spinach last year than from marijuana. Do not walk in Adam Lambert’s shoes, or bid for them on E-Bay. Buy disability insurance, because as young as you are, someday you may need it. Keep Anthrax out of your home but always store some Ben and Jerry’s ice cream in the freezer. Rotate your tires. Believe as much in the stock market as the psychic hot line. Avoid day traders and postal workers. Be wary of coaches who slap your butt too much. Remember that working out is not a life form. Sleep in more often.

Happy 4th of July As much as you believe in gay pride, do not place rainbow stickers on your car while driving through Mississippi. But gay is okay. If someone you know has a problem with this, let them go see the psychologist. See the movie the ‘Edge of Seventeen’ but try to date someone older. Adopt a pet. Give to charities but do not become one. Listen to music because life without music is not life.

And life without sunshine is, well, dark. What you spend years building may be destroyed overnight, but build anyway- preferably not with Lego’s, though. As beautiful as that home on the top of the mountain is, it is one mudslide away from collapsing. So it is with all of us. We are all not just day to day, but minute by minute. And the Book of Job is not an employment manual. Give the world the best you have, but keep a little for yourself. Don’t trust anyone over 30 sounded so good years ago, I felt I had to say it today again. All we were saying is give peace a chance. Was that so wrong? Learn yoga or Zen. Read Kerouac. Know yourself, but if you need help, call the FBI. Or just look up at that surveillance camera above your shoulder. Question authority. Plant flowers. Swim. Run. Particularly from anyone named Billy Joe Bob. Don’t let anyone tell you that your love is not real. Remember the Alamo, Stonewall, and your ATM password. Know what to kiss and when. Practice safer sex, though not on foggy runways. Ultimately, we are just renting time on this planet and your lease is not going to be renewed. So enjoy it while you can because whether you know it or not, the Universe is laughing behind your back. Keep a song in your hearts and a smile on your lips. Do not collect trick cards in your wallet or take chemotherapy

I F I T I S N O T I N H E R E , I T I S O N L I N E . M O R E G AY N E W S AT W W W . S O U T H F L O R I D A G AY N E W S . C O M

without a tootsie roll lollipop. Retain the ability to laugh at yourself and you will never cease to be amused. Have a lover’s quarrel with the world and not your lover. Learn how to make a life, not just a living. One day you will wake up and find out that you do not own your possessions. They own you. Remember: one tequila, two tequila, three tequila, floor. The chances are drugs will do you, more than you will do drugs. You don’t have to get high to be high on life. Age is not maturity. Don’t ask why me. Why not you? Who the hell do you think you are anyway? I don’t care how straight people act in private as long as they are gay in public. Closets are for clothes not people. You’re a civilian. You can ask and you can tell. Even if your country does not want you to serve in uniform, you can uniformly love your country on this fourth of July. And if that love is unfashionable, then you just live unfashionably.

Write to the Editor Please send your letters to: Letters to the Editor, SFGN 2520 N. Dixie Highway, Wilton Manors, FL 33305 OR EMAIL: editor@southfloridagaynews.com

June 28, 2010 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

Another Reason to Quit Fast Food McDonald’s Unwillingness to be Gay-Friendly By A. Sebastian Fortino

n response to my “McDonald’s, Francais et Gay,” which appeared in our June 7 issue, the National Gay and Lesbian Chamber of Commerce (NGLCC) shared a letter they sent to James Skinner, vice chairman and CEO of the McDonald’s Corporation. The controversial commercial features a young French man hiding his same-sex relationship from his father over a Big Mac. “It is the intention of this letter to inform you of the souring state of relations between our two organizations and express our utter dismay at the blatant geographic pandering to the LGBT community in the recently released TV ad in France, while McDonald’s has continued to distance itself from the LGBT segment in the United States. On behalf of the NGLCC we must share with you our sincere regret with the way McDonald’s has handled our honest outreach and sincere attempts at building a mutually beneficial relationship. Because we take so much pride in our more than 120 corporate partners, we feel it is our responsibility, if not duty to share feedback when warranted and hold companies accountable.” As reported in the piece we ran about the French ad, McDonald’s partnered with the NGLCC in 2008. In addition to membership, they made great strides in establishing

Letters, We Got Letters Comments On:

Stonewall street festival Living Equality? To the Editor: On June 20th our community celebrated the historic event at the Stonewall Bar in Greenwich Village that marked the beginning of the GLBT quest for freedom of expression and victory over political and institutional oppression.This is a great reason to celebrate, but we must be careful that the very freedom of expression and victory over oppression that we celebrate are not marred by acts of oppression that restrict the freedom of expression of ALL

themselves as a visibly gay-friendly corporate entity that year by appointing a vice president of communications, one Richard Ellis, to the NGLCC. They also co-sponsored the San Francisco gay pride parade that year. Then they pulled out when the American Family Association (AFA) boycotted McDonald’s. Clearly, McDonald’s feared the boycotting of their restaurants by conservatives in the United States. McDonald’s did, however, tell the NGLCC that they would partner with the DC-based group once more. “After numerous conversations and frustratingly unfulfilled promises by [the McDonald’s Corporation] to produce and share McDonald’s plan to engage in the LGBT segment we have still seen no plan. As such we have come to the conclusion that these individuals represent the real position that McDonald’s is not interested in doing business with the LGBT segment or engaging in any substantive dialogue.” An article in the Chicago Tribune, which interviewed Chief Operations Manager Don Thompson about the company’s future, mentioned the French ad. Thompson was quick to distance himself from the ad, because he’s a “Christian.” The subject of faith was not brought up by the relatively liberal publication. “It is an example that markets, cultures are very different around the world. (For inof the community that would celebrate. Since the inception of the Stonewall Street Festival, Church of the Holy SpiritSong has made its contribution to the celebration by performing songs of praise and worship to God and Jesus who we see as freedom, victory, refuge, hope, and a model for character building. We have each year purchased a booth from which we share the Good News of God’s grace to everyone, proclaiming that the Bible is an empty closet.We have done both every year, except this most recent celebration. We were told that expressions of God or Jesus would be offensive to some, so therefore we would not be allowed the freedom of expression using the name God or Jesus during our singing performance. For us, and multitudes of GLBT persons, Jesus represents freedom over oppression, victory over discrimination, a refuge from a hostile and angry world, a hope

Justin G. Nelson

stance), I’ve never shied away from the fact that I’m a Christian. I have my own personal beliefs and I don’t impose those on anybody else. I’ve been in countries where the majority of the people in the country don’t believe in a deity or they may be atheist. Or the majority of the country is Muslim. Or it may be the majority is much younger skewed. So when you look at all these differences, it’s not that I’m to be the judge or the jury relative to right or wrong. Having said that, at McDonald’s, there are core values we stand for and the world is getting much closer. So we have a lot of conversations. We’re going to make some mistakes at times… But, you’re right, that commercial won’t show in the United States.” Our readers may have asked: “What’s all the fuss? McDonald’s France is a separate entity from McDonald’s in the United States. They even told SFGN that marketing is—and has always been—a vernacular, localized affair. Right?” Wrong! According to Justin G. Nelson, for a brighter tomorrow, and a model on which our eternal character is built.We worship the Jesus of grace and mercy, not the Jesus of condemnation and anger portrayed by so much of modern religion and so readily bought by so many in our community.Those who buy that lie are the very ones who have denied the freedom of expression that effectually oppresses those who share the same goals, dreams, and aspirations as the rest of the GLBT community. We encourage those in leadership with the Stonewall Street Festival to live the life of equality and freedom represented by the events at Stonewall. If we want freedom and equality, we must live them as expressions in our own lives. After all, Church of the Holy SpiritSong is planted firmly on the campus of Equality Park, along with the Pride Center, as a place of refuge, victory, hope, and a model of character that is the ultimate expression of freedom. May

president and co-founder of the NGLCC: “McDonald’s is a global corporation. I think it is disingenuous for a company to turn its back on one part of the community then geographically pander to that segment of the community.” According to Nelson, as a global corporation, McDonald’s corporate offices in Oak Brook, Illinois, must sign off on everything, even ads created for foreign markets. SFGN contacted McDonald’s Corporation to confirm whether that is the case. The response McDonald’s gave was identical to what they told us in the June 7 piece. “The ad you’re referencing is one of a series of ads called ‘Come as You Are’ which recognizes the diversity of McDonald’s customers in France. This particular commercial was produced by McDonald’s France and is running only in France. Each of our 117 markets around the world determines their own path on advertising and marketing, which is nothing new at McDonald’s. Advertising has always varied around the world.” In sum, McDonald’s recognizes that there is diversity in France, but not on American shores. “Our issue was that it ran at all since their track record with the LGBT community has not been great at all. I have not heard anything as of yet from McDonald’s. I wrote the letter in anticipation of setting up a meeting with them in order to rectify this situation,” said Nelson. When asked, Nelson said he will not call for an LGBT boycott of the mega-corporation. “I can guarantee you that I won’t be eating at McDonald’s, but it’s not my job to tell the community what they can and cannot do.” freedom reign in our community! Pastor Tom Millner Senior Pastor, Church of the Holy SpiritSong

Reader Suggests Moving Pride to January To the Editor: Huge thanks and a big round of applause for the organizers of the Stonewall Street Festival. It came off beautifully, due to the massive efforts of the volunteers and the Directors of Pride of Greater Ft. Lauderdale. Our community enjoyed and benefited so much from their hard work. For the future, it is really time to reconsider having this event in the heat and rain of the summer months. This year the challenge was continued on page 34

June 28, 2010 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

Jesse’s Journal Gay Sex Among the Animals By Jesse

few years ago, the Zurich Zoo in Switzerland conducted guided tours that centered on homosexual behavior among the zoo animals. Unfortunately, the one-hour tours were held in the early evenings, at a time when most animals were asleep. But this did not stop the gay zoo tours from being a success. Though there was no same-sex activity in evidence, tour guide Myriam Schärz assured her tourists that same-sex behavior is a common part of animal life. “I don’t know of any species that is exclusively heterosexual,” Schärz told swissinfo, Switzerland’s news and information platform. “Right here in Zurich, we once had a gay flamingo couple who remained partners for life. In the Cologne Zoo, they have a pair of lesbian penguins who each year steal an egg from one of their neighbors and treat it as their own.” The last time I wrote about same-sex behavior among the so-called “lesser” species was in 1999. Later that year, the standard work on the topic, Biological Exuberance: Animal Homosexuality and Natural Diversity by Bruce Bagemihl, was published. “On every continent, animals of the same sex seek each other out and have probably been doing it for millions of years,” Bagemihl wrote. “They court each other, using intricate and beautiful mating dances that are

blowholes for sexual gratification.” Just last year a review paper by Nathan Bailey and Marlene Zuk of the Department of Biology at the University of California in Riverside concluded that “same-sex behavior is a nearly Monteagudo universal phenomenon in the animal kingdom, common across species, from worms to frogs to birds.” “Female western gulls sometimes pair the result of eons of Carlos and Fernando off for several years and mount each evolution. Males caress and kiss each other, showing tenderness other while incubating eggs,” Steve Hogan and affection toward one another rather and Lee Hudson wrote in Completely Queer: than just hostility and aggression. Females The Gay and Lesbian Encyclopedia. “Similar form long-lasting pair-bonds—or maybe behaviors have been documented among fejust meet briefly for sex, rolling in passion- male sage grouse, male mallard ducks, and female and male greylag geese and turkeys.” ate embraces or mounting one another. “Animals of the same sex build nests and According to the authors of Out in All Direchomes together, and many homosexual pairs tions: The Almanac of Gay and Lesbian Ameriraise young without members of the opposite ca, same-sex behavior has been documented sex. Other animals regularly have partners of in all kinds of animal species, including anteboth sexes, and some even live in commu- lope, bugs, butterflies, cats, cattle, cockroachnal groups where sexual activity is common es, crickets, dogs, donkeys, elephants, flies, among all members, male and female. Many geckos, guinea pigs, hamsters, horses, hycreatures are transgendered, crossing or enas, lions, martens, mice, moths, octopuses, combining characteristics of both males and orcas, porcupines, raccoons, rats and wasps. “In 1994,” according to the Almanac, females in their appearance or behavior.” According to Bagemihl, “Homosexual “two male flamingos in the Rotterdam Zoo behavior occurs in more than 450 different in the Netherlands got the nesting urge and kinds of animals worldwide, and is found set up a same-sex co-habitation. After the in every major geographic region and every two repeatedly sought to steal eggs from femajor animal group.” But we don’t need male flamingos to hatch them as their own, Bagemihl for anecdotal evidence. Hardly the zookeepers decided to provide them a week goes by that we don’t hear stories with a fertilized egg. The proud parents sucabout same-sex oriented otters or rabbits. cessfully hatched their own little chick, and You don’t have to go to the Zurich Zoo to remained faithfully by the side of the baby learn about “the indiscriminate and almost flamingo for a while.” The whole world knows about Roy and insatiable sexuality of bonobo apes” or “how gay male dolphins use their lovers’ Silo, two male chinstrap penguins at the

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Central Park Zoo in New York who lovingly hatched and raised an adopted chick, Tango. (The story of Tango and her two daddies appears in 2005’s often-censored children’s book, And Tango Makes Three, by Justin Richardson and Peter Parnell.) Gay animal behavior seems to alarm religious conservatives almost as much as the human variety, and they have tried their best to deny it. Those who do admit that samesex behavior exists in the animal kingdom try to explain it away as being playful antics or dominance behavior to assert hierarchy. “Some conservatives and religious groups now admit that homosexuality is common in the animal kingdom, but many of them have also put forward theories to explain the phenomenon,” said Myriam Schärz of the Zurich Zoo. “Some argue that homosexuality only occurs when animal populations become too large, or that animals only turn to homosexuality when they have no other alternative. But there is no evidence to back up the population theory, and there is plenty of proof against the harem argument. Dominant silverback gorillas, for instance, have frequently been seen engaging in homosexual activity and deliberately shunning available females.” “Humans seem to be the only species where homosexuals are not readily accepted in society,” Schärz said. “Animal societies tend to stay together and accept each other. Of course, animals do get excluded occasionally, but that tends to happen if they get injured or if they are not liked, rather than because of their sexuality.” Here is another instance where we humans could learn from the animals.

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June 28, 2010 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

General Gayety DADT: Truth and Sense Gone AWOL By Leslie Robinson

A couple of weeks later, AFA radio treated listeners to a history lesson. Host Bryan Fischer, as part of his discourse on DADT, declared that Hitler was “an active homosexual” who recruited gays to be Storm Troopers. “Hitler discovered that he could not get straight soldiers to be savage and brutal and vicious enough to carry out his orders, but that homosexual soldiers basically had no limits,” said Fischer. If he twisted history any farther he would decapitate it. The truth is that several leaders of the SA, the Nazi Party’s paramilitary, were gay. That Hitler was gay is unlikely. That Fischer chose to trot out a crazy picture of gay soldiers as vicious animals during the national DADT debate suggests he’s desperate and delusional, his head full of Brownshirts doing a Bavarian folkdance. That’s what the American Family Association offered to the debate. Not to be outdone, fellow social conservative group the Family Research Council stepped up to the fantasy plate at the same time. Senior Fellow for Policy Studies Peter Sprigg released what he said was the first study of “homosexual assault” in the military. The slippery slope of gays in the military: According to the TPM Web site, Liza Minnelli joins the Joint Chiefs of Staff and Sprigg told reporters that gays in the soldiers are forced to wear sequined pantsuits service “are three times more likely In May, Sen. James Inhofe, R-Okla., chatted to commit sexual assaults” than straights. His facts are about as trustworthy as BP’s. on American Family Association (AFA) radio Should DADT be repealed, said Sprigg, about DADT. “You have women, men, then you’d have a third group to deal with,” he said. the situation would become more dire. “The number of homosexuals would grow, A third group? What, Smurfs? Inhofe continued, “A military guy—I hap- the threat of discharge for homosexual bepen to be Army, and Army and Marines al- havior would be eliminated and protected ways feel that when we’re out there, we’re class status for homosexuals would make not doing it for the flag or for the country; victims hesitant to report assaults and make we’re doing it for the guy in the next foxhole. commanders hesitant to punish them for fear of appearing homophobic.” And that would dramatically change that.” And Liza Minnelli would join the Joint Apparently every straight soldier would forget his training and duty, emerge from Chiefs of Staff. Returning to politicians, consider Al Krieghis foxhole and announce to the enemy, “Stop shooting! There’s a faggot next to me er, the mayor of Yuma, Ariz., who supports DADT and whose remarks at a Memoso I’ve decided to just go home.” he things they say. Politicians and advocates opposed to the repeal of Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell (DADT) have provided a chain of ignorant remarks and fantastical claims. I suppose when fear is your main motivator, your lips come out swinging.

rial Day ceremony in a cemetery included, “I cannot believe that a bunch of lacydrawered, limp-wristed people could do what those men have done in the past.” What will it take for a person like Krieger to grasp that some of “those men” were gay? That some of them are now? He’s as ignorant as a head of cabbage. Krieger proved that again when he defended himself to TV station KYMA, saying, “We need solid strong men, not pacifists, to fight those battles.” Finally, in June, Rep. Ike Skelton, D-Mo.,

chairman of the House Armed Services Committee, said he thinks DADT should stay, in part because Congressional debate could force families to discuss homosexuality. “What do mommies and daddies say to their 7-year-old child?” Skelton asked media members. They say sometimes girls fall in love with girls, and boys fall in love with boys, you great big coward. Cue the irony--the congressman wants a policy of Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell on Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell.

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June 28, 2010 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

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Antonio Serrano Bringing Diversity to NSU By Joey Amato

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ntonio Serrano may not be one of the most recognizable names in town, but the 33-year-old Newburgh, N.Y., native has a lot going for him. His current position as the director of recruitment for adult and non-traditional students at Nova Southeastern University has given him the opportunity to reach out to the LGBT community and encourage them to further their education. Nova Southeastern is one of the area’s largest universities, employing over 4,000 individuals and enrolling 28,000 students. Serrano wasn’t always interested in working in education. As a teenager, he studied musical theater and vocal performance, two things that he still holds close to his heart today. It was during that time when Serrano also discovered his sexuality. “I came out a young age. I was 15 years old and I had my first boyfriend in grade 10,” Serrano says. “It was very easy to come out so young because I was surrounded by so many supportive people.” Being involved in his school’s theater groups was definitely influential. Although he came out in high school, Serrano didn’t inform his parents of his sexual orientation until his freshman year in college. “Everyone was very supportive. If I had one regret, I wish I would have told them sooner than later.” He felt as if he was hiding a piece of his life he should have been sharing. Serrano achieved his undergraduate degree in vocal performance from Ithica College. Shortly after graduation, he relocated to New York City and, for two years, lived what he calls “the bohemian life.” Serrano then moved to northeastern Pennsylvania to pursue a master’s degree from Misericordia University. Upon graduation, he packed his things and migrated south. He was hired as the associate director of admission for Lynn University in Boca Raton, where he stayed for three years. “I really liked being at Lynn, but I wanted

Antonio Serrano

to advance my career, so when a director position became available at Nova, I applied immediately.” His job title seemed a little vague to me, so I asked him exactly who he was targeting as non-traditional students. “Single parents, transfer students and people looking to change careers are some of the groups I reach out to,” says Serrrano. In addition, he has also begun an LGBT outreach program and promoted the school during this year’s PrideFest. “The gay community has to want more than just going to bars, clubs and partying.” Serrano believes that many LGBT individuals who did not complete college should go back to school to earn a degree. He encourages all people in the community who are interested to attend Nova’s adult education information reception on July 22 at their main campus in Davie. When he is not hard at work recruiting future graduates for the school, Serrano enjoys working out, relaxing by the pool and going to the beach. In the future, Serrano would like to work on his music career, although he is not sure which direction he will take within the industry. Furthermore, in the next year, he plans on beginning a doctorate program in education at Nova and would like to achieve a high-level position in administration. For more information about programs offered at Nova Southeastern University, visit Nova.edu/adult or call Antonio at 954-262-8000.

June 28, 2010 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

News Analysis

For a complete analysis, go to SFGN online and do a search for “Keen News Service”

Trial to Overturn Proposition 8 Is Over, Decision Forthcoming By A. Sebastian Fortino

or the past several months, the United States District Court in San Francisco has been embroiled in a trial that ultimately will uphold or overturn Proposition 8, the notorious Mormon-funded campaign that nullified gay marriage in California. The trial has been watched not only by Californians but people from both sides of the equality-in-marriage fence throughout the country. From the beginning the trial was controversial, even before the fact that Judge Vaughn Walker was outed in the San Francisco Chronicle after the trial began. Conservative groups, such as the National Organization for Marriage, a group created by the Mormon campaign to overturn gay marriage, said Walker’s presence on the bench would result in a biased trial, in favor of the gay cause. As SFGN contributor Jennifer Vanasco stated on February 22, “For one thing, a REALLY biased (for us) judge would have immediately issued a stay on Prop 8, allowing gay weddings to continue while the case was decided.” Walker, it should be noted, did not do this. The lawyer leading the defense of upholding Proposition 8, one Charles J. Cooper, said that overturning the ban on gay marriage would be the ruination of the fabric of society. “The marital relationship is fundamental to the existence and survival of the race. Without the marital relationship, your honor, society would come to an end,” Cooper argued. In sum, marriage is to produce children. If that is the case, should couples not be allowed to marry if they are unable to conceive?

Given that 60 percent of American marriages result in divorce, it doesn’t seem possible that society would fail. The impending, sure-to-be highly publicized divorce, between Al and Tipper Gore has not damaged Gore’s environmental activism, nor have social services and Congress ceased to function. Judge Walker is also—thankfully—aware that marriage is not for the benefit of society, as much as a bond between two partners. “Do people get married to benefit the community? When one enters into a marriage, you don’t say, ‘Oh boy, I’m going to benefit society’,” Walker countered. Theodore Olson, a conservative politician involved in the Bush v. Gore battle of 2000, is in favor of gay marriage and made arguments in support of it. “This case is about marriage and equality: the fundamental constitutional right to marry has been taken away from plaintiffs. Their state has rewritten its constitution in order to place them in a special disfavored category.” Olson stated, who also added that Proposition 8 deemed same-sex relationships as being “not valid, not recognized, and second rate,” although the LGBT community is already used to this kind of treatment. Outrage in this case comes from the fact that rights were granted, only to have those rights stripped unceremoniously without care and concern for those newly married. Now that final arguments were reached on June 16, the world will simply have to sit and wait for Judge Walker to make his decision in the case later this summer. While his witty response to Cooper seems to be an indication that he will decide in favor of overturning Proposition 8, don’t be too sure. Judge Walker has made legal decisions not in favor of the gay community before. According to the San Francisco Chronicle, Judge Walker “represented the U.S. Olympic Committee in a successful bid to keep San Francisco’s Gay Olympics from infringing on its name,” a decision which stirred the ire of the gay community in San Francisco.

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June 28, 2010 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

Summer Getaways IN THE USA & ABROAD

n the past few issues, SFGN has featured “Summer Staycations” and “Weekend Getaways.” For this issue, to celebrate Independence Day, we decided to travel

elsewhere; to places we either love or desire to visit. All of these cities are gay friendly and contain many cultural, dining and entertainment options for the LGBT community.

Fishing in Savannah By Brian Swinford

love fishing, especially in historic Savannah, Georgia. The water is warm in spring and summer, which is great for fishing! The fish come to the top of the water for the warmth of the sun. In terms of bait—it’s good to use topwater spinner bait for large-mouth bass. If you’re going to fish in the ocean, use a medium-sized shrimp that’s still alive and kicking to catch the big ones. A great spot for saltwater fishing is on picturesque Tybee Island Beach, which has clear water and white sand. On the way to the beach you’ll pass through beautiful Old Town Savannah and Savannah River, which is also good for freshwater fishing. While there, be sure to take one of the many scenic riverside boat tours. Savannah is a fun, relaxing, and gay-friendly summer get-away, whether you fish or not.

Washington, D.C. By John Fugate

ashington, D.C. is one of the most interesting places I’ve ever been to! This year I will be there for the Fourth of July! When I get off the plane at Dulles International, I’m heading to The Capital Hilton in downtown D.C. While there I like to visit Mount Vernon, & Arlington National Cemetery to visit John F. Kennedy’s gravesite. The real fun starts at night, with a twilight tour on a double-decker bus. All of the nation’s great wonders look even better when illuminated, especially the new ballpark, where the Nationals play. Then I head to Fur nightclub off of Patterson St, in northeastern D.C. It has a large dance floor with great music. After that I like to wind down at one of the city’s intimate cafes. Then I’ll head back to the beautiful hotel for a nice night’s sleep! What a wonderful city, with nice people and great attractions both – patriotic and gay!

Camp Mars By Dennis Jozefowicz

hough still in the state Florida, Camp Mars really is a getaway from the everyday local scene, without leaving the gay scene behind. Located in the city of Venus (you see where the name comes from), it’s a very wooded campground surrounded by nothing but farms and fields. Bring an RV, a tent, or rent a cabin, or a “yurt,” and enjoy the camaraderie of fellow men. The clubhouse and facilities are quite clean, and every weekend has a different theme with events and parties. The clothing-optional pool area is perfect for cooling off in the hot summer heat. Everyone is there to relax and get away, and you can be as quiet or as social as you want to be.The campground has a set of rules that everyone respects, so that everyone can feel comfortable.They cater to the bear and leather scene, but everyone is welcome, they let me in. For info, go to CampMars.com.

June 28, 2010 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

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Zürich: Go Natural

Switzerland

By A. Sebastian Fortino

hether you sip a beer along the Limmat River, attend a public concert on the Landesmuseum grounds, spend the day bathing in the Lake of Zürich, or sit high on an alpine peak, such as the Rothorn, listening to the never-ending reverberations of cowbells on the valley floor below, you will find that Switzerland is a gay friendly, perfectly natural summer retreat. Zürich, as it’s cosmopolitan, boasts efficient public transport, and its central location makes it an excellent place to visit Switzerland. Germany, and the gorgeous mouth of the Rhine, are less than two hours away, as is shopping destination Milan. Despite being so “chic,” the Swiss know their country is a majestic natural treasure. On any given weekend, it’s quite ordinary to rough it high on a mountain, and then return to Züri—as it’s affectionately known—for a gourmet meal and dancing in the Old Town. For more info, visit myswitzerland.com

London, Feel the Surge of Energy By Piero Guidugli

London

he weight of history gives authority even to the sleaziest streets here. The panorama never fails to enchant. Every spire, tower, building and park merges against the horizon, as if put there by the unseen hand of an artist sitting on the edge of the Thames. It’s an artifact, an ever-evolving watercolor canvas. London, is the gay “centre” of Europe and the beating heart of Cool Britannia. London rolled out the red carpet to the pink dollar long before it became fashionable. There are over 600 funloving gay watering holes, eateries, shops and guesthouses. Have a spot of lunch or high tea, at famed department store Harvey Nicks, where Patsy and Edina of Absolutely Fabulous spent most of their time. Explore the gay capital and you’ll find gay and lesbian film and arts festivals, all colorful outdoor celebrations of pride. Sense the familiar and the foreign. Experience the best of the past and the present, and take the London Underground wherever you wish to go!

Singapore By Penn Bullock

Singapore

s a destination for LGBT travelers, the Asian island city-state of Singapore isn’t an obvious pick. Male-on-male sex is a crime under its draconian colonial British law. But the prohibition is a formality: The government has continually reiterated its tolerance of homosexuality. The country reportedly has as many, if not more, gay men than London. If you peel back its conservative veneer, you’ll find a thriving, if understated, gay night-life teeming with lots of pretty men and women. Singapore abounds with luxurious gay bathhouses: One of the most gloriously seedy is Raw, a four-storey, 24-hour “gym” with a rooftop Jacuzzi, an underground spa, a labyrinth of private rooms, and regular Friday night foam parties. The swank clubs and bars are centered in Chinatown and usually have a nice mix of Western and Asian patrons. Make no mistake: Singapore is a first-world country and it’s got world-class shopping and hotels to prove it. It’s located at the center of Asia, so it’s only ever a short flight from hot spots elsewhere on the continent. For more info, visit www.utopia-asia.com, and click on the Singapore section.

Cindy Curtis at ‘Old Fashioned Fourth’ J.W. Arnold

or centuries after the founding of our nation, American composers continued to be influenced by the classical masters of Europe—until the Jazz Age. Jazz is the quintessential American musical form, and, this weekend, Fort Lauderdale singer Cindy Curtis and her band will be celebrating the nation’s birthday at the “Old Fashioned Fourth” at Flamingo Gardens with music by America’s greatest jazz composers. Curtis plans to showcase the music of Duke Ellington, Cole Porter and George Gershwin, as well as other legendary composers of the 1930s and ‘40s. “I grew up singing Carole King folksongs and lots of Peter, Paul and Mary, but as I got older, I discovered jazz,” she explains. As she explored the new idiom over the past 25 years, Curtis also began to embrace improvisation, the practice of composing and performing on the spot that is common in jazz performance. She also began writing her own lyrics to jazz instrumental tunes. “There are certain singers that inspired me—Cassandra Wilson, Al Jarreau, Mark Murphy—and as I started writing my own lyrics… I found myself expressing experiences of the heart, angst and desire and longing,” she says. “It’s such a great art form, and I’ve been lucky to work with some great musicians in South Florida.” At one time, the singer had hoped to make a full-time career of her music, but she continues to frequently perform at charity and private events across the region, including community festivals and ArtsUnited concerts. “I work as an account executive for Wells Fargo and they used to call me ‘the singing underwriter,’” Curtis says with a laugh. The mother of a 20-year-old son adds, “Music really helps me deal with the pressure of the working world.” As someone who came out fairly recently, Curtis also credits her music with providing an outlet for expression she never had: “Music is special that way. It’s always been there for me.” In addition to performances by Curtis and her jazz trio, the “Old Fashioned Fourth” at Flamingo Gardens will include a vintage If you go: Model A car-show on Satur“Old Fashioned Fourth” day, and barbecue on the lawn at Flamingo Gardens of the historic Wray home in July 3 & 4, 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Davie from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Admission: $8.50 adults, $4.25 Guests will be able to explore children under 12 the historic Wray house, 60-acre For more information, go to botanical gardens and wildlife FlamingoGardens.org sanctuary.. or call (954) 473-2955.

June 28, 2010 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

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Global Comes Local

Out in the Tropics Showcases International LGBT Talent Page 32

June 28, 2010 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

Nightlife by J.W. Arnold

of resident DJs Pride and FR8-0. Pelu Rivero will also be featured on the drums. The action is at 727 Lincoln Rd.

Fourth of July Fireworks W

everal local bars and clubs will be firing up their barbecues on Sunday to maintain this holiday tradition: Dudes, located just a few blocks from the beach at 3270 NE 33rd St. in Fort Lauderdale, offers a complimentary barbecue. The evening will really get hot as the bar’s sexy dancers take the stage later in the day. Just a few blocks east, Smarty Pants, the friendly neighborhood bar tucked away in a strip mall on Oakland Park Blvd. across from Target, serves up its complimentary buffet beginning at 3 p.m. Tiffany Ariegus presents an All-American Showcase beginning at 4 p.m. Drive just a little further south on Route 1 to Cubby Hole, 823 N. Federal Hwy., for a cookout beginning at 4 p.m. to benefit Tuesdays Angels. A $5 donation is requested. Mona’s on Sunrise Blvd. is celebrating the holiday with its annual fund drive in memory of patron “Pizza Hut” Dave. The Hot Diggity Dog cookout—featuring beer-soaked flame broiled hot dogs and sausage and peppers—starts at 2 p.m. and runs until 7 p.m. There will also be a fabulous auction beginning at 5 p.m. After the cookouts, cool off on the waters of the Intracoastal Waterway on Peter Burke’s Gay Fireworks Cruise from 7:30 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. Tickets are still available for the floating party that will put you in the best location to enjoy the fireworks on the Fourth. For more information, go to GayTeaCruise.com.

Friday, July 2

e usually associate the Independence Day holiday with wholesome Americana, picnics, apple pie and the like, but you won’t find any scenes from a Norman Rockwell painting at The Manor tonight, as the Epic nightclub, in conjunction with Fetish Factory, presents the Cross the Line Fetish Party. The club will be enforcing a strict dress code, so dig out anything latex, leather, Gothic, kinky drag, or cyber erotic or just stay home. Manor is located at 2345 Wilton Dr. in Wilton Manors. Saturday, July 3

he Ramrod will hold their 23rd Pig Dance. We doubt any of the pork at this party will end up on a barbecue on a Sunday, but it’s guaranteed to be a hot, hot event—even sizzling. Ramrod is located at 1508 NE 4th Ave. in Fort Lauderdale. Sunday, July 4

fter the fireworks are over, the party will just be getting started at Insomnia at Nocturnal, 50 NE 11th St. in downtown Miami. This new Miami holiday tradition begins at 10 p.m. and lasts “until you can’t dance anymore” to the music of DJ Abel. Best of all, you can party the night away, guilt-free, because Monday is a federal holiday.

Here is a look at some of the other highlights of the upcoming week: Thursday, July 1

ick off the holiday weekend tonight in South Beach at Score on trendy Lincoln Road for Crème & Sugar Thursdays. Enjoy $7 Three Olives vodka cocktail as you move to the beat

DJ Abel

June 28, 2010 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

Album Review

Kylie Minogue Aphrodite By Joey Amato

breast cancer and underwent breast surgery and chemotherapy as treatment. Her ylie Minogue is undoubtedly one cancer is now in remission, and she marked her return with a triumphant world tour. of the greatest pop musicians Last year, Kylie realized one of her most of our generation. Her career cherished ambitions by doing a one-off began in 1987, when she released her first exclusive tour for her US and Canadian fans single, “Locomotion.” The song hit No. 1 in who had never before had the opportunity Australia and remained in the top spot for to experience a live seven weeks, becoming the biggest Austraevent. The sold-out, lian single of the ’80s. critically acclaimed Since then she has released 10 studio tour included visits to albums, two live CDs, eight live concert San Francisco, Chicago, DVDs, plus greatest hits compilations, in addition to the release of almost 50 singles. New York and Toronto. The summer of Kylie has been the guest of royalty in Britain 2010 is ushering in a and Europe, received countless gold and new and exciting era in platinum discs, been honored with numerous prestigious awards, sold-out six record- Kylie’s incredible story, the era of the Aphrobreaking world tours and, in 2000, closed dite. Kylie’s 11th studio album, which will be the Sydney Olympics. released internationally on July 6, has been She’s graced the covers of Cosmopolitan, generating huge levels of excitement even Elle, Glamour, GQ, Harpers Bazaar and Rollbefore release, and the first single, “All the ing Stone and now has returned with her Lovers,” has been hailed as “one of the best latest album, titled Aphrodite. She strives Kylie songs ever” by News Of The World. to achieve the same success in the United Kylie kicks the album into high gear with States that she saw with the release of Fever. the chart-topping “All the Lovers,” a song When Kylie released her global smash that immediately made me believe that she hit “Can’t Get You Out Of My Head” in will recapture the success of Fever, which September 2001, “Kylie Fever” reached an she attained nearly a decade ago. The acall-time high. Her album Fever generated companying video to the track is a tribute three other smash hit singles, including “In Your Eyes” and “Love At First Sight.” The al- to her gay fans and is more sexually probum went on to sell over six million copies vocative than any other video she has made. The following tracks keep fans on the worldwide, and she won a Grammy Award dance floor. “Get Outta My Way” is reminisfor Best Dance Recording for “Come Into cent of Kylie’s earlier hits but incorporates My World”. modern sounds and production. Kylie chanKylie spent the summer of 2003 recordnels Donna Summer for the airy “Closer,” ing her ninth studio album, Body Language, which immediately reminded me of Sumwhich she released that November. It was preceded by the hypnotic single “Slow,” co- mer’s smash hit, “I Feel Love.” The Australian songstress finally takes a written by Kylie herself. The album achieved breath on “Everything is Beautiful,” which mediocre success in the U.S., but sold very is still playful but not as beat heavy as the well elsewhere in the world. opening tracks. In 2005, the pop star was diagnosed The tempo of the album picks up again with breast cancer. Initially misdiagnosed, on the title track “Aphrodite,” an introspecMinogue persisted in getting an accurate tive song about her struggle with breast diagnosis for the lump found in her breast. cancer and her endless power and triumph After getting subsequent medical opinions, over the disease. “Better Than Today” it was found she had an aggressive type of

catches listeners from the start of the first few notes and the spellbinding melody. By the time the bridge comes, you are enamored of the track—a great pop song that will surely be remixed for the clubs and, in my opinion, could be Kylie’s next single. The hook asks the audience: “What’s the point in livin’ if you don’t take a chance/What’s the point in livin’ if you don’t wanna dance?” The edgiest song on the album is definitely “Cupid Boy.” Kylie digs deep into love on the track. “Why don’t you thrill me like you

did before/Why don’t you give me a little bit more?” The track is not as techno-pop sounding as the rest of the album and has the potential to break through to mainstream U.S. audiences. “Can’t Beat the Feeling” is the perfect closing track to Kylie’s best album since Fever. And I have also been told, although dates have not been confirmed, that a U.S. tour is in the works. Let’s hope Kylie gives us a chance to experience the magic and excitement of her live show once again. For more information, visit Kylie.com.

Below: Scene from Kylie’s “All the Lovers” video

June 28, 2010 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

Art

Victor Hugo: Alive and Well in South Florida

tax revenues to be lost. Education will suffer. The decimated houses of Haiti could potentially happen here if the infrastructure is not addressed.” and Egypt. Rather than see the trip as an By A. Sebastian Fortino Vaca hopes that amazing educational opportunity, the nuns those who attended n Thursday, June 17, artist Victor threatened to hold him back a full year. the Modern Art His parents won out, and young Victor Hugo Vaca II held a Modern Music Movement got to see the marvels of the Holy Land. Art Music Movement event at After the U.S. Naval Academy, he came to event at Gelati MarGelato Martini Lounge on Wilton Drive tini Lounge on June South Florida in 1990. He settled in North and displayed some of his paintings. While Bay Village, and soon became the homeown- 17 were inspired to you may not have heard about the painter er’s representative at the Grandview Palace. contact their politidirectly, you may have spotted—or been cians to amend the “With 1,500 residents, that was a small shocked by—advertisements for the film situation in the Gulf town. I didn’t realize Crackhead Jesus. The of Mexico. The inspiration piece for the the level of power, film was advertised in being in charge of that evening was a Galliano T-shirt, in yellows Miami around Christand browns depicting newsprint. He then many residents,” said mastime this past Vaca. “That’s the high- created a painting as part of the evening’s year. The title was entertainments, accompanied by a saxoest constituency rate deemed so controfor North Bay Village.” phone that reinterpreted the music of his versial that Vaca was This rekindled Vaca’s film Crackhead Jesus, which played in the refused a copyright. interest in politics, but background. According to Vaca, he soon discovered Crackhead Jesus is not the only way he could meant to be an antifight his personal Christian slur. Crackhead Jesus was “Crackhead Jesus through art. It was is Bernie Madoff, his way of getting the Halliburton, and now building’s owners to the BP oil company. change, repair, and Corporate America is refurbish the property. Crackhead Jesus,” he Vaca at his easel The goal of the June said. “The people and 17 event was to create a dialogue through powers that are screwing up our country. art about the BP oil crisis.Vaca claims that He represents the modern evils in this many media outlets and journalists are bound world. He represents all the ills that are afby the mission, interests, and politics to fecting our lives right now.” Victor Hugo Vaca II, who admits his liter- which their editors or publishers subscribe. However, by having a journalist come view his ary family name has helped his work and work or to his events, the themes he works mission “go viral,” is a native to New York with will be discussed. City. Challenging society and the “powers He calls this brand of dispersing informathat be” began in his youth. His parents tion gonzo journalism, which he believes wished to pull young Victor out of paroallows journalists to not only entertain the chial school for a tour of the Middle East public but also allows for thought-provoking For more information, commentary. go to Crackheadjesus.com His two passions right now are the BP oil To see the show, crisis, which he fears will lead to black rain, visit Gelato Martini Lounge and the aftermath of the Haitian earthquake. 2037 Wilton Drive “The black rain is going to decimate the Wilton Manors, FL 33305 Floridian real-estate market, and make it (954) 537-7731 worse than it is. People will leave, causing

“The truth is hard to swallow,” said Vaca. “But when you do it with music and pretty colors you manage to get people’s attention.” In addition to the Wilton Manors exhibit, running through August 1, the artist will take his work on the road, and will even go to Haiti in addition to stops up and down the Eastern Seaboard.

June 28, 2010 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

Theatre Review

producer attempt to stop the wedding so Janet won’t leave the stage and cost The Drowsy Chaperone them all millions. The Drowsy Chaperone runs through July 25 Kelley’s Man in Chair has the required at the Stage Door Theatre, 8036 W. Sample wistfulness and enthusiasm, but ultimately Rd., Coral Springs. For more information, call he comes off as more bitter than endearing. 954-344-7765 or visit StageDoorTheatre.com. The show really comes to life with Oldham’s appearance, belting out the showstopping “Show Off.” Oldham sparkles in the role, even when everything around her falls flat. The other terrific show-making performance comes from Matt Ban as pudgy, over-the-hill Latin lover Aldolpho. Ban’s teeth marks are all over the scenery, which is perfect for his character. Two of his scenes—one in which he schemes with producer Feldzieg (Jonathan Van Dyke) to stop the wedding and another in which he seduces the titular chaperone (Eileen Faxas)—are two of the best scenes in the show. Faxas also shows she can belt with By Mary Damiano the best of them on her anthematic “As We Arts Editor Stumble Along.” Chrissi Ardito’s choreography adds dazzle to he Stage Door Theatre in the production, while the lighting and set deCoral Springs is currently sign by Ardean Landhuis are clever and evocastaging a handsome production tive. Kimberly Wick’s smart costume choices of the Tony-winning musical The Drowsy enrich the nostalgic mood of the show. Chaperone. The Stage Door theatre’s production of The Drowsy Chaperone is both modern The Drowsy Chaperone doesn’t always hit and nostalgic. Its innovative structure features a character known as Man in Chair, the mark on the sparkle meter, but it’s a pleasant and delightful diversion. played by the show’s director, Dan Kelley. Man in Chair is a reclusive, old-fashioned theatre lover who escapes from the real world by listening to his Broadway cast albums. As he listens to the album from an obscure musical from the 1920s, The Drowsy Chaperone, he serves as narrator and commentator as the show comes to life in his small apartment. The plot of the show-within-a-show is a fluffy farce involving the impending wedding of oil heir Robert Martin (Jeffrey Funaro) to Broadway star Janet Van De Graff (Laura Oldham). The wedding party and guests have assembled at a country estate, and hilarLaura Oldham as Janet Van De Graff in ity ensues when a couple The Drowsy Chaperone of mobsters and Janet’s

Drowsy is Delightful

Stage Door’s Latest Toe-Tapper is a Winner

June 28, 2010 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

Heard it on...

By the Night Owl

of the bars of justice. He appeared in court to face charges of sexual offenses, including raping another man, related to an incident in 2009.The police officer was charged with one rape, three sexual assaults, and an attempted sexual assault. The 27-year-old, who has been suspended from duty, was charged following an incident at the Etap hotel in Leeds on December 19, 2009. Guess you just gotta watch those men in uniform.

VOICE CANDY

This week’s cover of the Village Voice asked Jersey Shore’s Vinny Gaudagnino, Ronnie Ortiz-Magro, and Mike “The Situation” Sorrentino to strip down a bit. The popular NY alternative mag ran its Queer Issue this week, purportedly to celebrate NY gay pride. Word is that some of the cover boys may not have known they were posing shirtless for the cover of ‘The Queer Issue.’ Ronnie Mark Carter was of course the focus of controversy after he was shown getting into an OFFICER, IS THAT YOUR BILLY altercation with someone on the boardwalk CLUB, OR... As reported last week on Advocate.com, during a Jersey shore episode who was reportedly gay. a West Yorkshire, England, police officer Amongst the articles which appeared and winner of the 2006 Mr. Gay UK title in the Voice’s ‘Queer Issue,’ was a piece has been arrested himself. According to the BBC, Mark Carter was on the wrong side entitled ‘Gay Print Media on the Wane,’ citing the death of the Blades and Unite and Window Media. The off target reporting neglected to state the resurgence of the new publications, such as ours, in multiple venues like D.C., Atlanta, and Georgia. Another article was about ‘A Gay Man Joins the GOP,’ and we can’t tell yet whether the guy got hives.

Bill Clinton really happy to meet Carlos Bocanegra

Meanwhile, all the features are online at the villagevoice.com web site for your perusal.

Bill, Bocanegra and a Bud

Okay, usually you do not see former presidents looking real stoned and celebratROCK STAR HOOKED ON DRUGS!!! ing with a can of Bud. However, anyone watching the USA defeat AlgeGioia Bruno, the ria 1-0 last week at the World bisexual lead singer of Cup probably saw footage of 1980s pop group ExPresident Bill Clinton in posé, has been charged the stands enjoying the game. with trafficking methamAfter it was all over the Arkanphetamines. sas bred prez hooted it up like According to new reva real, hooter, downing a beer elations in Radar, Bruno with California bred Carlos was arrested in April Bocanegra, an American 2009 in Broward County, soccer star and modeling icon, Florida and received five and a man whose tattoos are years probation for the well-defined. felony crime. The case is Gioia Bruno now closed. Sources close to Bruno, who is 47, told GAYDIO IS GAY RADIO Radar that the singer has long struggled Britain’s first radio station for the gays with drugs. has debuted , and it promises to play more “Celebrity Rehab has called two years than just Madonna and Kylie.You can in a row to have her on,” a source told the even listen online, even if you don’t live in publication. “She needs to get sober, but she the U.K. Upon entering the site, I noticed refuses to admit she even has a problem,” the recent playlist, which included tracks by said the source. Outkast, Pink, George Michael and The Italian-born Bruno, who came out UK sensation, Will Young. Even classic as bisexual in 2006, toured with Exposé as songs like Salt N’ Pepa’s “Push It” and its lead singer in the Erasure’s “Blue Savannah” late 1980s. The group were on rotation. The stacreated hits including tion website also features “Tell Me Why,” “What a calendar of events which You Don’t Know,” “Let may spark interest to the Me Be The One,” and gay community. To listen, “Season’s Change.” visit Gaydio.co.uk.

June 28, 2010 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

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Iceland’s PM Marries Partner Iceland’s Prime Minister was among the first gay people to marry in her country, as its marriage equality law went into effect on Sunday. Johanna Sigurdardottir married her longtime partner, Jonina Leosdottir, when the couple requested that their 7-year civil union be transferred into a marriage, according to the Telegraph. The Icelandic parliament unanimously passed a marriage equality bill on June 12. Sigurdardottir took office in February 2009.

Abercrombie & Fitch Resurrects Its Magazine After a nearly sever year hiatus, Abercrombie & Fitch will publish their magazine once again. Some have described the publication as “soft core porn”, while others turn to it to see that latest fashion trends.

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June 28, 2010 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

Summer Reading

Had Me a Blast! By A. Sebastian Fortino

hen the summer humidity is so thick you can cut it with a knife, and the sun smiles joyously and brightly over bathing-suit-clad bodies, life slows down in South Florida. Or so I am told, as this will be my first summer in residence. With beaches now populated mostly by locals and life at a slower pace, I thought I would share with you some of my favorite books. To me this means books I have reread, recommended or given out as gifts.Yes, this is a biased piece, but hopefully acknowledging that to my readers makes it pardonable.

A Prayer for Owen Meany by John Irving As with all of Irving’s books, one of the main characters, Johnny Wheelwright is a fatherless child. His mother defies convention and has a child out of wedlock in a post-WWII New England, which is so vividly, lovingly described that a movie will never be able to capture Irving’s tableau. Owen Meany is Johnny’s best friend. He sees himself as “God’s Instrument on Earth,” and also vows to help Johnny find his father, which forever binds the two boys in a friendship that still makes me thankful for my best friend. The book will make you laugh out loud, grow angry at the injustices of the Vietnam War, and weep. I have read the book six times, since discovering it at 12. Owen, like the book, is a friend I turn to whenever my life goes through a major change.

to document social conditions at the time, without raising the eyebrows of the Czar. I do recommend reading this with an excellent martini, made with nearly frozen Russian vodka.

Brunalleschi’s Dome by Ross King

Admittedly, I am really biased with this one, as I studied art history in college and in Florence. While many people are correct in thinking that art history texts are dry works only of interest to those “in the field,” that stops here. In this beautifully illustrated book—pictures are a plus in terms of the art history genre—King relates how the great dome of Santa Maria dei Fiori in Florence was constructed. However, he does not merely reproduce charts and tell us how many tons of stone were used. Instead, with an approach not dissimilar to a novel, he recounts the construction anecdotally. We learn what fines the masons Ana Karenina and carpenters had to pay by Leo Tolstoy for urinating off the side of I do not recommend picking up War & Peace, as I can say from personal experience the massive construction site. We learn what melons that it’s not “beach reading.” However, to beat the heat, Ana Karenina is an ideal choice. the Florentines were given for free by the church in The book—with descriptions of grand parties in Russian winters—will certainly sweep honor of a saint’s feast day. We learn of Brunalleschi’s struggles as he you away to a grander time and cool you off. The beauty of Tolstoy is that he was able attempts to construct the dome that he not

only had to design, oversee, and build, but really invent. Previous dome constructing techniques were not deemed adequate for the great seat of the capricious de Medicis, who were— of course—involved in the dome’s construction. Be warned, though: If your passport is not current you might have to renew it halfway through the book, because you’ll want to go to Florence!

Gone With the Wind by Margaret Mitchell I don’t really know why Scarlett O’Hara and Vivien Leigh, the actress that played her, are not the gay icons that they should be. Perhaps it is because the movie, however faithful to the book, loses something. Namely, that Scarlett was, “frankly my dear,” a bitch. The movie does touch on that, but the book reveals that not only is she a woman in a man’s world, she is a woman in a world without men. Some women survive and go forward, as Scarlett does, while most of her peers sit by idly, waiting for the war to end and their men to come back. One hint of advice, don’t read the book then overwhelm your friends with references to laying out your “crinolines” when joining them by the pool or on the beach.

Me Talk Pretty One Day by David Sedaris He is my literary idol, I can say that with pride. David Sedaris is brilliantly, unassumingly funny. He turns things like a crystal meth addiction into high art, literally. We watch David as he fumbles through moving to France, is forced to learn the guitar to please his father, and a host of other ordinary situations that he elevates to comic escapades. Be careful where you read this book—if laughing out loud embarrasses you.

The Berlin Stories by Christopher Isherwood Isherwood is hot right now because of the Tom Ford adaptation of A Single Man. However, in The Berlin Stories we’re given a glimpse into a raucous, fantastic place and era known as Weimar Germany, in which Christopher, and “his kind” party and play openly and freely. In addition to being so beautifully written, the historical aspect of Germany in the 1930s comes largely into play. Isherwood documents a liberal Germany that, through firsthand accounts—he saw Hitler when he was considered largely to be Germany’s savior, not a heartless, bloodthirsty tyrant—changes into the Third Reich. This is a book I frequently give to European friends that want to improve their English.

Behind the Screen: How Gays & Lesbians Shaped Hollywood by William J. Mann This book chronicles gay life in Hollywood from 1910 through 1969.You might not think that in the post-Victorian world of the early 20th century Hollywood was ripe with gays and lesbians. However, in Mann’s book we are reminded that artists and actors have always been generally liberal, comfortable with “fringe groups,” and when vaudeville waned and Hollywoodtown beckoned, the actors went west. There, in what was still seen as a backwater, they could live their lives freely and openly while they created American cinema. Read this book with a pen and paper at your side.You will doubtlessly want to learn more about the personalities and movies Mann discusses.

June 28, 2010 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

Books with Gay Themes for Young Readers Take Off By Leanne Italie

House of Night vampire series he loves by the mother-daughter team P.C. and Kristin Cast. Associated Press “I see the characters trickling into the mainstream genres. I really like that,” Brent t his Kentucky elementary school, said. “It makes being gay feel natural, which it kids taunted Brent on the playis, of course. Books give you hope.” ground about being gay, whatever Reads that speak to lesbian, gay, bisexual, that was. By eighth grade, he realized what they meant and came out to a friend - and vice versa. transgender and questioning teens have She was an avid writer, he a voracious reader.They headed to their school library in search of stories that spoke to their lives: gay, gay in the South, gay and fearing stereotypes like “disgusting” and “worthless.” “There were tons of books about gangs and drugs and teen pregnancy and there were no LGBT books. I asked the librarian about it and she was like, ‘This is middle school. I can only have appropriate books here,’” said Brent, now 15 and heading into his sophomore year of senior high. So they went to their public library, where they discovered traveled light years since John Donovan’s plenty of romantic gay steam between covI’ll Get There. It Better be Worth the Trip led ers - for adults. “We weren’t complaining,” said Brent, who asked that his last name and the way in 1969, now long out of print. The book on the confused world of 13-year-old hometown not be used. Davy and the jock he kisses will be reisTurning next to bookstores, they finally sued in September from Flux, an imprint of found what they’d been looking for - a Llewellyn Worldwide. recent explosion in the publishing world “This book made Harper & Row (now of reads that speak to lesbian, gay, bisexual, HarperCollins) very nervous,” said Brian Fartransgender and questioning teens. rey, editor of the new edition. “They weren’t First came a gem, a book for young people that made them cry: Martin Wilson’s sure how people were going to take to it. It was the one that said it can be done for teens 2008 debut, What They Always Tell Us, set in Tuscaloosa, Ala. The story about a troubled and there won’t be people with pitchforks and torches waiting for you at the door. It year for two brothers, one of whom finds solace in a relationship with a boy, made him opened the closet to teens and said you are feel less like an “alien on your own planet.” not alone.” Well before gay characters began popA world of books followed. Brent read his way through Tom Dolby, Robin Reardon, ping up in the mainstream on TV and at the movies, librarians embraced “I’ll Get There,” Julie Ann Peters and David Levithan. He soon realized there were lots of coming out said Kathleen T. Horning, director of the Cooperative Children’s Book Center of stories but he also craved romance, fantasy and paranormal books with characters who the School of Education at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. Another important just happened to be gay, like Damien in the

forerunner was Nancy Garden’s 1982 Annie on My Mind and its unabashedly happy ending for two 17-year-old girls who fall in love. “Previous to that, there would be some awful car accident or one of the gay characters would die,” Horning said, acknowledging that thread in “I’ll Get There.” “There was a sense that the gay character had to be punished

somehow.They were kind of depressing.” Still, until now few LGBT titles became blockbusters. That changed with two boys named Will Grayson and a very large, very GLEE-ful linebacker named Tiny. Will Grayson, by Levithan and John Green, debuted on the New York Times children’s best-seller list and stayed there for three weeks after its April release. It’s a first for a young adult novel with major gay themes and has delighted hungry teen readers - fanboys and fangirls who were the likely reason the book became a trending topic on Twitter. Penguin has 60,000 copies in print. In alternating chapters, Green and Levithan write of two 16-year-old boys with little in common, living in separate Chicago suburbs. One’s depressed and struggling to come out and the other is straight with a flamboyantly gay friend in Tiny Cooper, a football star on the hunt for love - and stardom in musical theater. “I AM tiny,” said 20-year-old Andrew

Casasanta, an English major at George Mason University in Fairfax,Va. “It’s still very frustrating. I don’t think that there’s many characters out there that I can personally relate to and they’re generally more stereotypes. It’s important that this book, while having gay themes front and center, was written well.” It helps that Levithan is a prolific rock star in gay lit for young people with an acclaimed winner in 2003, Boy Meets Boy. It also helps that Green is revered as a writer for teens, including his “Paper Towns” in 2008, and by fans of the adrenaline-infused videos he posts regularly online. “Landing as high on the New York Times list as we did with ‘Will Grayson, Will Grayson’ made a big statement to the children’s publishing world that gay characters are not a commercial liability,” Green said. “This is an important statement to make.” As gay-straight alliances spread in schools and kids reared by gay parents have kids of their own, books remain important survival tools for all young people trying to figure out who they are, said Lynn Evarts, a high school librarian in the farm country of Sauk Prairie,Wis. “Kids have for the most part become ‘Will and Grace’-ified,” she said. “Oftentimes I’ll hand them a book that has a gay main character and tell them how funny it is, and they take it and like it. These are kids who wouldn’t normally touch anything like that. I live in the land of rednecks, but they like it because it’s funny and good.” Funny and good is well and good for kids with access to LGBT lit. What about readers like Brent who don’t have inclusive libraries, deep pockets or technology to download ebooks? Recent research in Texas, for instance, indicated a strong “I don’t serve those teens” attitude among librarians. “It’s the argument that drives me crazy,” said Teri Lesesne, who teaches young adult lit in the Department of Library Science at Sam Houston State University in Huntsville, Texas. “It’s like, ‘Yeah, you do.’ They might not be coming in and saying, ‘Hi, I’m gay or I’m bi or I’m transgender or I’m questioning my own identity,’ because they’re afraid,” she said. “But they’re there and they’re looking for these books.”

June 28, 2010 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

Global Comes Local Out in the Tropics Showcases International LGBT Talent By Mary Damiano

Francisco several years ago, the Tropics two years ago. and Obie-winning artist He saw a need because Taylor Mac, who tackles while other mainstream transgender issues in his arts groups, he says, oct’s always been important to performances. Both artists me that we create a high qual- casionally bring in LGBT are making their South artists, no one does so ity but South Florida-specific Florida debut at the festival. consistently. program,” says Robert Rosenberg, who, And Teatro Publico, a the“There’s so much out along with Fundarte, is launching the LGBT atre company from Cuba, festival Out in the Tropics, July 7-11, in Miami there that I found through will be making their U.S. Beach, featuring the United States debut of a research and my own debut at Out in the Tropics. knowledge, I thought it prominent Cuban theatre company. Teatro Publico was recwould be great to bring Rosenberg held a preview called a “Taste ommended to Rosenberg of Out in the Tropics” last November during a whole bunch of those Taylor Mac by Ever Chavez of Fundarte, the Sleepless Night event in Miami Beach. For artists here all at once,” a not-for-profit arts presenting group, which says Rosenberg. “Also, when you do it as that event, he presented a free concert by is presenting the festival along with Rosenthe rock group, Betty, at the Colony Theatre. a festival, you get that critical mass, that excitement, that energy that comes for the berg’s Tropical Wave Productions. Chavez Rosenberg has a history of fostering LGBT arts in South Florida. He co-founded community, for the artists and seeing things worked with Teatro Publico in Havana before moving to South Florida, and knew that they in a wider context.” the Miami Gay & Lesbian Film Festival and had a gay-oriented production that debuted Out in the Tropics features Sara Felder, served as its artistic director for several in Cuba last December, a cross-gender vera performance artist Rosenberg saw in San years. Rosenberg got the idea for Out in sion of Fassbinder’s film The Bitter Tears of Petra Von Kant, which tells of a lesbian love triangle in all its toxic and dramatic glory. “All the women are being played by men, so it’s like Charles Busch meets Cuba meets “We treat you like part of the family!” •Back Pain German craziness,” says Rosenberg. DR. TROY LOMASKY • Neck Pain Rosenberg is especially proud that Out Graduate, New York Chiropractic College • Auto Accidents in the Tropics will mark Teatro Publico’s U.S. debut. • Sports- & Work“It’s great because it makes our festival Related Injuries here in South Florida specific to our re• Pinched Nerves gion,” says Rosenberg. “This is the first time • Headaches the company has left Cuba and come to 2608 NE 16th Ave., Wilton Manors • Massage WALK-INS the United States. It took a long time to get Therapy EMERGENCIES FL LIC # MM13657 these visas. It makes the festival something

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Theatre Feature Out in the Tropics Runs July 7-11. All performances will take place at the Colony Thetare on Lincoln Road; the panel discussion will be held at the Shore Club Hotel. Tickets are available at the Colony box office, through TicketMaster, or by visiting Fundarte.us. For group sales, call 305-316-6165.

unique, so people don’t say that we’re just bringing in the same people who go everywhere else.” Out in the Tropics opens with a free panel discussion titled “Queer Culture, Global Culture.” The panelists are Felder; Mac; Carlos Diaz, founder of Teatro Publico; as well as South Florida favorite Beverly McClellan, who will also perform her own music during the post-panel reception. Rosenberg stresses that all of the talent performing at Out in the Tropics are awardwinning performers who do shows all over the world—making the festival global in that not only are these internationally-known artists, but also in that South Florida will get to experience the kind of alternative art familiar to other audiences in global cultural centers. Out in the Tropics also features a workshop for gay teens in conjunction with Pridelines. Felder and Mac will also conduct free master-class workshops for students and artists on Friday, July 9—Mac will teach the finer points of drag while Felder will demonstrate how to deliver a monologue and throw knives. “We realize these are unknown artists to the South Florida community,” says Rosenberg, “but I hope that the people who go to the Miami Gay & Lesbian Film Festival or who go to see one of the gay choruses in the region will decide to try these newfangled performing arts we haven’t seen as well.”

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June 28, 2010 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

Letters to the Editor continued from page 15 the oppressive heat, while in past years heavy rains have soaked the Drive on Stonewall Day. The broiling mid-day heat took alot of the enjoyment of a great event out of everyone... volunteers, paraders, entertainers, and spectators, alike. Notwithstanding the desire to have the event in the general time frame of other Pride events, just consider how much more pleasant the day could be in, say, late January, with moderate temperatures, little chance of rain, and lots of out of town visitors to look at as well! Or, maybe it could be in mid-February in conjunction with Mardi Gras. The hot summer months are not the right time to have a large street event like Stonewall, and POGFL should think about moving the date to January. Consider the possibilities. Fred Reissner Wilton Manros, FL 33334

Reader Appalled at Dogs at Stonewall To the Editor: I attended the Stonewall Street fair this past Sunday and was appalled at the shear stupidity of people who brought their dogs as well as the business owners who forced their dogs to walk in the parade. I did not see one owner who had a proper bowl to allow their dog to drink water. They only had bottles that they tried unsuccessfully to get them to drink out of. Every dog I saw was clearly miserable, panting profusely, literally “hopping” on the hot pave-

ment, and so exhausted that their owners were pulling them along or had to carry them. If these so called “animal lovers” took 30 seconds to place their own bare foot on the pavement, they would see how unbearably HOT it was. Some of these people are clearly ignorant and need a lesson in pet care, but that is no excuse.The dog related business owners should be even more ashamed of themselves as they should have known better.The complete incompetence of proper dog care that you displayed Sunday will hopefully be detrimental to your business. Lastly, to the owners who only brought their dogs to act as “dick magnets,” no one will ever be interested in you because you are extremely selfish individuals with no regard for your pet’s comfort. Everyone was disgusted by your behavior. If you keep treating your dog like that, it will soon be dead.You should all be reported to the ASPCA for animal cruelty and should consider giving your pets up for adoption. Maybe they will find a better and truly loving home. A note to organizers for next year, please ban all dogs. It is for their own safety! Bill Knowles Fort Lauderdale, fl

STONEWALL FESTIVAL GOING TO THE DOGS To the Editor: The Stonewall Street Festival was another success this year. However, once again, I was shocked and appalled by the number of clueless humans out and about with their dogs. Participants in the parade and observers alike, stupid people everywhere put their poor animals, helpless and panting out in the hot sun, walking

This cutie (we mean the dog) at the festival, was kept well-hydrated, off the pavement, in the shade and in the arms of loving owners. on hot pavement, in extreme danger. I saw a Great Dane and a yellow Lab marching in the parade on the hot pavement, pavement so hot that they kept lifting their burning paws up for a too brief cool off. I saw an observer with two gorgeous standard Poodles that we so uncomfortable to the point of being unruly, yet their owner tried in vain to keep them calm instead of taking them back to their air conditioned home. I saw a gorgeous blonde Afghan that was desperately gasping for cooling air while his/her idiot owner paraded him/her along the hot pavement, not a drop of water in sight for the poor thing. I watched numerous animal advocate groups marching in the parade with dozens of dogs out in the relentless sun. Two cute little dogs were even in a stroller,

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wrapped in blankets! We all know that these pet owners love their animals so much; they thought it appropriate to parade them around in public. Nevertheless, these folks are negligent and guilty of animal abuse. Moreover, not anywhere, in any local publication or on any website do I recall anyone urging people to keep their animals at home. Not a single staff member made any attempt to talk any sense to these oblivious people. Next year, let’s have another fabulous time at the Street Festival. Let’s get the parade started on time. My husband and I will remember our sunscreen. But to all those involved and concerned, let’s place extra emphasis on urging people to leave their pets at home. Dan Verity

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RE For Sale Broward THE BANYAN Privacy is yours in this naturist paradise “The Banyan” is a 1/2 acre estate. This 4/3 pool home w/ waterfall sits perfectly on this magical property and has upgrades that you would expect to find in this type of property. If it is privacy and tranquility that you seek “The Banyan” is now available as your private residence. Don Gilliland Coldwell Banker 954-5574333 dongilliland@comcast.net ------------------------------------------------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 UNIT APARTMENT BUILDING IN EAST PROGRESSO. $57K + Income. Near town and all East side amenities. Easy bike ride to Manors activities, beach, parks, restaurants, and shops. Greatly reduced for sale because of major family illness. For operational data and viewing information, go to the www. the1best.us and click 5th Avenue East. ------------------------------------------------8 UNIT APARTMENT BUILDING IN E WILTON MANORS. $73K+ Income. Directly across from the new Wilton Stations townhomes and close to the social center of town, this 8 unit has been greatly reduced for sale because of major family illness. Near shops, restaurants, parks, libraries and a bike ride to Ft. Lauderdale beaches. For operational data and viewing information, go to the www.the1best.us and click on Wilton Manors.

SFGN’s classified soapbox

RE Real Estate Agents WWW.GAYREALESTATE.COM Free On-Line Directory of the Top Gay & Lesbian Realtors in South Florida and the Nation. www.GayRealEstate. com or Toll Free 1.888.420.MOVE (6683).

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

REN Furnished Housing NEW IN TOWN? COMING TO WILTON MANORS SOON? FURNISHED 1/1 $295/ WEEK. Walk to Wilton Drive, bright comfy spotless nicely updated furnished (pots, pans, dishes, etc.) 1st floor corner 1 bdrm, cen a/c, $295 a week includes electric, water & cable, pet considered; call for details. Laundry on premises; 954-242-7566. ------------------------------------------------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 ------------------------------------------------DOWNTOWN FORT LAUDERDALE Relocation Rentals 2-6 Months. 1 & 2 bedroom apartments. $800 - $1,100/Mo. Fully Furnished. On bus line close to Las Olas and Riverfront. Call John Hart, Owner/Agent 954-764-3137

REN Rentals Broward Other SHARE A 3BD/2BA. LOOKING FOR TWO ROOMMATES IN MIRAMAR One bedroom $550/Mo., the other $600/ Mo. Furnished or unfurnished. All utilities included. Full use of house. Call 954-987-9382

REN Rentals Fort Lauderdale MELROSE STYLE BOUTIQUE BLDG. Lovely pool, fenced property, on-site mgr. 1 & 2 Bedrooms starting at $795. Great location - close to I-95 and downtown FTL. Call Lynn at 832-364-0302 ------------------------------------------------FT LAUDERDALE - MOVE IN SPECIAL 1BD/1BA $700/Mo. Small building. Tile floors. Corner Apt. Laundry. Water & Garbage included. Short & long term lease available. Call 954-467-2501

------------------------------------------------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 ------------------------------------------------JUST MINUTES TO WILTON DRIVE FROM $695!! Both 1/1’s, one in small private beautifully landscaped Middle River Terrace bldg! Fresh paint, ceramic tile thruout, updtd kitchen, big bdroom, extra lge walk-in closet, laundry on premises, good parking. Another 1/1 in Wilton Manors, 2nd floor, all tile, fresh paint, updates, walk to Wilton Drive, cat OK. 954-561-3332 or 954-242-7566. ------------------------------------------------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. ------------------------------------------------2/1 IN OAKLAND PARK 5-PLEX - GREAT NEIGHBORS Good size apartment, ideal floor plan for roommates. Living/dining room with open plan kitchen, dishwasher, fridge/freezer, Central air, tile floors, New paint, parking, small pets with approval. Clean and ready now. $895/Mo. Michael 954-540-3543 ------------------------------------------------VICTORIA PARK UPDATED 1 BEDROOM Completely Renovated 1 bedroom, Central Air, Walk-In Closet, DW, Micro, Hurricane Windows/Doors. Walk to Gateway and Galleria. N/S. $850 mo. 954-270-0304 ------------------------------------------------VICTORIA PARK CONDO 2BR/1BA fully furnished condo for rent. Central air & heat, pool, tile floors, D/W, balcony, parking space, secured building. No Pets. $900 per month plus electric, 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, small-quiet pets ok, coin laundry, $700/ Mo. Call James 305-213-3473 ------------------------------------------------FURNISHED/UNFURNISHED 1/1 FORT LAUDERDALE. New unit attached to home. Central AC, french doors, HW floors, fenced yard, hurricane windows, kitchenette w/ micro, fridge, no stove. $750/ Mo. includes electric, cable and internet. Reliable landlord. Non-smokers, 1 person occupancy. Very Nice. Call 954-707-0264

June 28, 2010 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

CLASSIFIEDS@HOTSPOTSMAGAZINE.COM ------------------------------------------------$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 $795/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 ------------------------------------------------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 ------------------------------------------------FORT LAUDERDALE - 2/2 CONDO IN IDEAL LOCATION 2 bedroom/2 bathroom condo in Rio Vista neighborhood, East Fort Lauderdale. Walk to shops and restaurants. Close to schools. 2 miles from the beach. Parking garage. Pet friendly. For more information: 954-465-6256 ------------------------------------------------FORT LAUDERDALE - 2/2 CONDO IN IDEAL LOCATION 2 bedroom/2 bathroom condo in Rio Vista neighborhood, East Fort Lauderdale. Walk to shops and restaurants. Close to schools. 2 miles from the beach. Parking garage. Pet friendly. For more information: 954-465-6256 ------------------------------------------------VICTORIA PARK STUDIO Furnished w/ private patio, parking for 2, coin laundry, $550/Mo. + F/S. Call 954-881-5167 ------------------------------------------------LAKE RIDGE. Amazing large Studio private patio, big pets ok, W/D in unit, updated kit, dishwasher, updated bath, $815/mo gets it! Call Joe Adcock 954882-2122 Ocean Shores Realty ------------------------------------------------LAKERIDGE COZY STUDIO/ROOM Private patio area. Full bath & kitchen. Hardwood floors, ceiling fan, tropical secluded pool & patio area. 1 mile to beach & Wilton drive. On-site laundry available. Partially furnished. No smoking/ no pets. For one quiet person only/ no drama. Electric, WiFi, Direct TV, water included. $600 a month. 954-636-9298 ------------------------------------------------CORAL RIDGE 1/1, BRIGHT, tile floors, POOL, W/D on site, Pets OK, Great Coral Ridge Location $850/mo. Ben Levine 954566-1900 Ocean Shores Realty ------------------------------------------------17ST CSWY 2/1/1 Waterfront & City Views, Plenty of Guest Parking, Secured Building, GORGEOUS view, close to 17th St. shopping/ restaurants, beach, 5th Floor Location $975/mo. Call Ben Levine 954-566-1900 Ocean Shores Realty ------------------------------------------------17St CSWY AREA-- POOL 1/1 on 2nd floor, updated, lg bath, walk in closet, 800sf large, W/D on site, walk to shopping/restaurants on 17th, 5 minutes to “The Drive” without the hassle!!! $800/mo! Hurry!! Joe Adcock 954-8822122 Ocean Shores Realty

------------------------------------------------DOWNTOWN MIA PRIVATE BR/BA MASTER BR WITH PRIVATE BA AVAILABLE NOW. FURISHED/ UNFURNISHED $800 INCLUDES ELECTRIC, CABLE AND WIRELESS INTERNET. CALL JUAN 305-898-5057.

REN Rentals Miami COTTAGE IN BISCAYNE PARK/MIAMI SHORES. Adorable 2 bed/ 1 bath. Wood Floors/ Private entrance/ washer dryer inc. $1100/ Month + Elect. Call Carlo 305431-1674 or email ckmercuri@aol.com

REN Rentals Oakland Park 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. 954-632-6662 ------------------------------------------------BRIGHT EFFICIENCY APT EAST OAKLAND PARK, MINUTES TO WILTON DRIVE Great neighborhood, safe, quiet, Private entrance, 4 large windows. Non-smoker, no pets $650/Mo. plus one month security 954-561-7174 ------------------------------------------------PRIVATE LARGE 1BD/1BA COTTAGE Large screened lani patio off bedroom, fenced yard, great location near Oakland & Dixie, pets are welcome, $850/ Mo. Call 512-963-6874

REN Rentals Palm Beach DELRAY BEACH DOWNTOWN 2BD/1BA, central air, fenced yard, parking, pets ok, $850/Mo. + utilities. F/S. Call 305-296-7744 ------------------------------------------------1/1 LAKE WORTH DOWNTOWN $750 Lg 1/1 in duplex, 2nd Ave South at South M Street, front porch, rear patio, gas/ water/partial electric included, walk to ICW and beach, NO SMOKING inside, SMALL pets considered, 1 year lease, $750/mo, F/S required. Available 5/31/2010. Call only: 561-315-3281

REN Rentals Wilton Manors MIDDLE RIVER TERRACE 1/1 Bright, corner, 1st floor - 1 Bdrm in small Bldg. Cent A/C, tile floors. Xtra clean, C. Fans, Laundry, small pet ok. Near 5 points. Hurricane windows. $725/mo. 954-552-5023 ------------------------------------------------1/1 COTTAGE STYLE WILTON MANORS AREA Private fenced yard, gated entrance Front/back patio tile throughout updated kitchen/bath. ALL pets considered $735/ Mo. 954-557-7447 ------------------------------------------------WILTON MANORS WATERFRONT ON THE PARK Waterfront 1BD/1BA, new kitchen, spacious apt. $799/Mo. Also 2BD/2BA avail August 1st $1,100/Mo. Call 954-224-8768 ------------------------------------------------WILTON MANORS Furnished efficiency near everything. Electricity, utilities, Cable TV, WI-FI included. $595/Mo. Call 954-563-7769 ------------------------------------------------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!

------------------------------------------------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. Call Melissa for info at 954-563-6672 ------------------------------------------------LARGE 1 BR APT AVAIL. JULY 1 Renovated 1 BR apartment with central air, updated kitchen with dishwasher, new 18” tile throughout. Tropical Setting - small Bldg. $700/Mo plus F/S. Call 954-907-8454 or 954-907-8462 ------------------------------------------------WATERFRONT CONDO W/ EXPANSIVE VIEW. Wilton Manors Area, large 1 BR with updated Bath & kitchen with DW. Mexican tile throughout, Private patio, cable TV included $850 per/mo plus F/S. Avail. July 1. 954-907-8454 ------------------------------------------------WILTON. 2/2 Roomie Special, 2 Master Bath Duplex features tile, W/D, bright and open, Lg closets, patio, large kitchen & living room. ONLY $895! READY NOW! Joe Adcock 954-882-2122 Ocean Shores Realty ------------------------------------------------WILTON AREA. 1/1 Private Cottage, Updated Kitchen, Private Fenced Yard, Large Pets OK $800 Hurry!!! Ben Levine 954-566-1900 Ocean Shores Realty

RM 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 ------------------------------------------------ROOMMATE TO SHARE OAKLAND PARK POOL HOME Large 4BD/3BA ranch style house with screened in pool on the Lloyd Estate. Bedroom has walk-in closet and private bath. All utilities, internet and Direct TV included. Share with two guys and a cat. No smoking, drugs or additional pets. Please be responsible and employed. $650/Mo. Avail July 1st. Michael 954-540-3543 ------------------------------------------------GAY PROF MALE LOOKING TO SHARE BEAUTIFUL 2BD/2BA IN CORAL RIDGE. Off Street Parking Cable and Internet ready. Washer and Dryer. Incredible location! Close to Wilton Manors, Beach, and Shopping Gay Friendly building Must like dogs have 2 small. Move in ready $600/ Mo. plus security Call 954-993-6531 ------------------------------------------------ROOM FOR RENT IN POOL HOME ON THE WATER. No security deposit. Utilities, cable and internet included. Share house, laundry and pool. No drugs, steady income required. $600/Mo. Contact Rob or Mark 954-792-1761 ------------------------------------------------CORAL RIDGE COUNTRY CLUB Gay couple seeking a prof. male 2 share a 4/2 pool home. 1 lg. common area (kitchen, great room, laundry, patio and private pool). Bedrooms on opposite sides of the house. Each w/ own bath for complete privacy. Must like animals (2 sm. dogs and 1 cat) $1,000/Mo. + 1/3 of utilities. Avail Aug. 1st. Call 954707-1428 ------------------------------------------------POINSETTIA HEIGHTS - GREAT LOCATION! Small furnished Studio with private entrance,patio area, bath, refrigerator, full size futon, flat screen TV w/dvd, all utilities included. One price of $580 one block to US1 near Whole Foods/ Barnes & Noble. Call 954-478-6307 or email groovytime@aol.com

RM Roommates Oakland Park ANDREWS GARDENS. Share large 3/2 w/pool, W/D, WiFi, utilities included $490/ mo. + Security. Employed. Available July 1, can view earlier. Call 954-881-2848

------------------------------------------------OAKLAND PARK NEAR SCANDALS 2/1 in a tropical gay complex, tile floors, DW, cent AC, clothing optional pool & patio w/ bar & laundry, fenced & gated. 572 NE 34th Street, $900/Mo. Small pets considered. 954-422-2080 Greg ------------------------------------------------LAUDERDALE LAKES/OAKLAND PARK $500/MO. 4 miles to Wilton Manors. No deposit, all utilities included! Gay professional couple looking to rent a UNFURNISHED room in 3br/2ba POOL HOME! Please be pet friendly. Avail July 9th. + Dep. Call Jacob 850-838-9592

RM Roommates Palm Beach SHARE A 2BD/2BA CONDO ON PALM BEACH ISLAND. With a friendly mature guy and 6yr old Jack Russel Terrier. Just 3 blocks from ocean and near Worth Avenue. Private room and bath, cable, WiFi, large terrace, pool, laundry, 6mo. minimum please. $595/Mo. + Sec. Call 561-248-5769

RM Roommates Wilton Manors WILTON MANORS - 1 MI. FROM ALIBI Share a 3/2 newer home with one professional, unfurnished room. No smoking, drugs, x-drinking. Must like quiet and be employed. $550/Mo. + $550 Sec. Call 954-540-1811 ------------------------------------------------WILTON MANORS/OAKLAND PK RESPONSIBLE ROOMMATE NEEDED Share 2BR/2BA furnished condo with private bath & POOL. WiFi, very clean, very quiet and great location. Utilities Included. Neg. deposit. 508-725-6969 Serious inquires only.

SER Body Rubs ****SENSUAL MASSAGE**** Indulge in relaxation and erotic stimulation with a full body Sensual Massage provided in the nude by a handsome mature man in a spa like environment. Gay-Bi-Straight welcomed. Convenient NE Ft. Lauderdale location. Discretion assured. Ryan 954-593-6637 www. RyanMassage.weebly.com ------------------------------------------------A GREAT MASSAGE AWAITS! I offer excellent massage sessions consisting of Deep Tissue, Swedish and Sensual Touch. I can customize the session to your needs. Try adding a ShaveTrim / Saltscrub / Bodywash / Face Treatment & More! Me: 41, Hot Bear Cub with nice legs and butt. Clothing Optional. Hours 8am -Midnight. To book an appointment, Call David 954-802-8128 DavidRubnMassage@aol.com www. davidrubnmassage.webs.com ------------------------------------------------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 ------------------------------------------------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 ------------------------------------------------THE EROTIC BODY SLIDE AND ULTIMATE BODY RUB This is a completely arousing and intensely erotic sensual experience which creates an intoxicating and aphrodisiac effect. It can alter the body’s consciousness and extend moments of ecstasy. This is a beloved lost art. You only live one live so enjoy it! OUT CALLS ONLY. Tony O. 954-200-5827

------------------------------------------------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 954-3282321. www.rentboy.com ------------------------------------------------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 ------------------------------------------------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 954-770-6117 or 954-661-4920 ------------------------------------------------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 ------------------------------------------------STRONG HANDED OPEN FUN FRIENDLY ITALIAN MUSCLE BOTTOM OFFERING Erotic fully nude hot oil deep tissue full body rub on table. Nude swimming/tanning. IN/OUT. Call 954-294-1576 or email musclebodyrubguy@aol.com Dog sitting also available. BEST RATES! ------------------------------------------------***MILITARY LOOKING AND HUNG*** 53, Tall, Muscular & Masculine. 8.5 x 6 cut. Deep muscle. COME and RELEASE your TENSION. IN/OUT calls 8 AM to 7PM - 7 DAYS A WEEK. Clean, STD Free, and discreet. 954-257-0782 or Mineis8.5X6@gmail.com ------------------------------------------------***TOTAL BLISS*** If you’re 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 ------------------------------------------------MASSAGE STUD xxx Massage & More xxx 786-385-9548 www.TORSCLUB.com ------------------------------------------------BODYWORK AND ENERGY-WORK Release stress and restore yourself. Workout stuck energy points. Call Keith 561-305-1105 Reasonable rates!

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June 28, 2010 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

Steven Petrow is the author of The Essential Book of Gay Manners & Etiquette. Find him on the web at www.gayandlesbianmanners.com

What about a gay pride “dress code”? Q: I’m looking forward to my city’s pride celebration later this month but wondering if you have some suggestions on a “dress code” for those in attendance. Here’s why I ask: On a day that our community gets so much attention from the news media and from straight people, I think it’s a shame that so many of my brothers and sisters don’t clean up their act, so to speak, so that we can present a more wholesome face to the country. I mean, why do so many gay men and lesbians need to show up in full drag or leather? A: I hope you’re not suggesting I ask Dykes on Bikes to refrain from kicking off pride parades in cities across the country. While they’re certainly front and center for logistical reasons (you wouldn’t want to march in front of them after all), there’s also another more important explanation: They are symbolic of the defiance, freedom and, yes, gay pride, that was birthed during the Stonewall Rebellion

in 1969. Ever since, they along with groups dressing in the particular styles you mention have been criticized for presenting a “face” of LGBT people to the world that’s too provocative. In the 90s, two gay Harvard intellectuals, one a psychologist and the other an ad man, proposed exactly what you are: that gays must portray themselves in a positive way to straight America if they are to win the battle for legal and social rights. I’d suggest that there is a time and place for everything. Pride festivities provide a brief moment every year to recall the birth of the modern LGBT civil rights movement, which we do happen to owe to a group of drag queens and trans people, among others. Even the marriage-equality movement is about inclusion and diversity. If the more mainstream parts of our community push the leather and drag communities to the side, literally and metaphorically, we’ll have erased the essence of gay pride. At the same time, I think the reason

I’m afraid using social networking sites this way is no replacement for direct, in-person conversations. In your case, I think it’s especially unwise because you say you’re having trouble speaking up offline about your sexuality. The first step in any successful coming out is getting comfortable enough to talk about it. Then, tell your closest friends, parents, siblings, and others you care about—in person. After that, it’s fine to note on your profile that you’re interested “in men” or “in women” and see where that leads you. One final note:You mention that you’re a college senior, so presumably you’ll be seeking a job upon graduation. RememDress code for Pride: the shoes must match the bag ber that anything you we have groups like the National Center post on a social networking site is forever. So for Lesbian Rights and the Human Rights it’s in your interest to think carefully about Campaign, is, indeed, to present a more who else may have access to whatever infor“wholesome” front—complete with suit and mation you post—today and down the road. tie—that is no doubt more effective in Congressional hearings and in state legislatures Can we charge our across the country. friends to come to our Not that I wouldn’t also like to see more wedding shower? variety of images in the media during our Q: My girlfriend and I are planning what pride celebrations. I think it’s a shame—per- we jokingly call a “lesbian couples shower” in haps laziness, if not homophobia—that most anticipation of our commitment ceremony cameras settle on the louder and racier later this year. Right now, we’re up to about scenes, and miss out on great stories about 40 friends and family on our guest list and lower-profile groups like the Trevor Projwe can’t really afford to throw such a big ect (a suicide prevention group for LGBT event. A couple of our friends suggested we people), as well as gay athletes, seniors, activ- ask our guests to help us cover the costs. ists, teen groups, and so on. Would that be bad lesbian manners? A: It would be bad manners, period. The problem is not that you are short on cash but Is it cool to come out that your guest list is too long. Besides, showon Facebook? ers need to be small enough for guests to get Q: I’ve wanted to come out for years, to know each other. I suggest that, instead of but I’m a senior in college now and haven’t thinking of your shower as one big meet-andfound the courage to tell anyone. Recently greet, you try and consider it a cozy, intimate I’ve been thinking about just updating my gathering of your nearest and dearest. Facebook profile before I tell my friends or As soon you get over the crazy idea of family. What do you think about that? charging people admission, cut your list way A: Coming out online has its benefits. down and sketch out a reasonable budget. Making your announcement to so many Or consider asking those friends who made people at once can be liberating, and you don’t have to go through the hassle of having the original suggestion to host your little party themselves. the same conversation a dozen times. But

FAST PRINTZ

Queeries by Steven Perow

June 28, 2010 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

Q Scopes By Jack Fertig

Be sensible, Cancer!

The Sun and Mercury are in Cancer and in conflict with Neptune and Chiron, both in Aquarius, aggravating clannishness and the worst of wellintentioned urges. Focus on your own goals and hard work. If you’re in a 12-step program, go to your meetings! ARIES (March 20 – April 19): Do your best to stop worrying about family and social problems. Focus instead on career challenges and your public reputation. Getting mucked up in others’ problems will only make you look like an incompetent meddler. TAURUS (April 20 – May 20): You are probably exaggerating the attention you are getting.While you’re not exactly invisible, neither are you the center of everyone’s attention. Keeping half an eye on details may be necessary, but keep your eye on the bigger picture. GEMINI (May 21- June 20):You can deal with your own fiscal problems better if you can take the long view and see how everyone is in the same boat. Political philosophies need real world grounding. For every idea, find a precedent. CANCER (June 21- July 22):The sexiest thing about you – especially now – is your ability to see the sexiness in others.That can be dangerous, tempting you to get more involved than you should with the wrong person(s).You can pick and choose. Be sensible! LEO (July 23 – August 22):The best things you can do for others may best be unobserved, although the right people will know. Discuss your plans with someone so as not to make any presumptuous errors. If you have to choose, “practical” is better than “nice.” VIRGO (August 23 – September 22): Plans made now will not go any better than those that are currently failing to be fulfilled. Get creative and practical, take the long view and save those ideas (some are quite good!) to be hashed over later.

Solution to Crossword Puzzle on page 33

LIBRA (September 23 – October 22): Getting a little too clever at work can backfire easily. Include your boss in any planning. Misunderstandings can be the first step to clarification. Don’t be scared to work it through. Building a strong foundation is most basic and important.

JARRETT’S SMART LIST By Jarrett Terrill

Whole Foods 62% of political donations went to Democrats in the last year. Spent $143,000 lobbying Congress At a glance, Whole Foods is an excellent company that promotes organic, healthy foods. But a deeper scratch of SCORPIO (October 23 – November 21): Lofty dreams and the surface reveals that every one of arguments are alluring, but your their claims to fame is a little tarnished. grand notions could be built on a For instance, they cover up the genetic house of cards. Ideas you’ve carried modifications on some of their foods all your life may be outdated. Keep and they even work with Walmart to your ears open to new perspectives, but stay focused on real-life bust up any union activity they see details, facts and figures. Costco among their employees. Their former 97% of political donaCEO was finally re-titled as a generic SAGITTARIUS (November tions went to Demoboard member because of his staunch 22 – December 20): Questions campaign against healthcare reform in about sexuality can cause confusion, crats in the last year. raising more questions, engenderSpent $0 lobbying 2009. But their treatment of gay and ing more confusion… It can be an Congress lesbian employees has been almost enjoyable merry-go-round if you Costco employees are among the perfect. Whole Foods has a written prefer the spin to solid answers. highest paid in the industry. Even non-discrimination policy covering all For the latter, stick to your own PETA has purchased stock in Costco. LGBT persons and offers insurance most basic values. They use solar panels for some of plans that cover domestic partners. CAPRICORN (December 21 their energy consumption. Costco has Whole Foods has also sponsored floats – January 19): Money is one of the a written non-discrimination policy and participation in many pride parades two biggest sources of conflict in covering all LGBT persons and offers across the country. relationships.While communicainsurance plans that cover domestic tions may seem very simpatico, financial questions lead more to partners. Their health insurance even Albertsons confusion and more questions. Self- covers some treatments for transgenOnly 7% of their poreliance is the key to this mess. der employees. litical donations went AQUARIUS (January 20 – February 18):Worries about your health are probably exaggerated, but not completely unfounded. Meditation and relaxation can help a great deal. So would a sensible review of your diet, but a check-up is never a bad idea. PISCES (February 19 – March 19): Quiet time alone will help bring out your more creative side. Keep a dream journal, meditate, and explore your worries, doubts, fantasies and ideals.What to do with all that material? Friends can help you focus it into something useful.

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.

his week the Smart List focuses on where we buy our food. I’ve also added a new feature to show how each company ranks on two scales— Democratic issues and LGBT issues, since those are no longer inseparable in today’s corporate/ political spheres. For the purposes of this list, you can assume that the companies are ranked in order of my personal approval.

Target Only 32% of their political donations went to Democrats but individual contributions from employees were much higher than that. Target spent less than 25% of what Walmart did on lobbying Congress ($2 million). Unfortunately, there have been some allegations of sweatshop labor being used, but this is to be expected from all low-price major retailers. Their inhouse food brands include an organic label, and the reviews of their food quality have been almost completely positive. Target has a written non-discrimination policy covering all LGBT persons and offers insurance plans that cover domestic partners.

ing congress. Even though their political donations are on par for a Democrat, their corporate practice leaves a bit to be desired. Winn-Dixie still has the ability to discriminate against transgender employees and they do not offer insurance that is inclusive of domestic partners. Publix A whopping 83% of their political donations went to Republicans last year. $0 were spent lobbying congress, but it’s untold how much influence they’ve had at local levels. Publix does not seem to rank as high as their competitors on employee satisfaction and has not seemed to do much for the community here in Wilton Manors. I expect a little more action from them considering the higher cost of their food. They still have the ability to discriminate against transgender people in their hiring practices and this resulted in at least one lawsuit here in Fort Lauderdale. It is also not known whether their insurance policies are inclusive of domestic partnerships.

Walmart A sizeable 58% of their political donations went to Republicans last year. That was over $1.3 million. There is also a known anti-Democratic political ideology in their corporate leadership. Over $10 million more was spent lobbying Congress to assist in their takeovers. Untold millions were also spent to Democrats in the on local takeover efforts, including the last year. placement of clones on city councils to They spent $0 lobbyfavor Walmart development practices. ing congress. Walmart is the industry leader in Have been relatively unfriendly to everything that’s wrong with America. union activity and have an obvious fondness for conservative values. They Foreign child-abusing sweatshops are the primary means of production for allow their pharmacists to refuse birth-control treatments to customers this hellacious company, which has even based on religious objection. That being allowed its Chinese security guards to murder a woman who was suspected said—Albertsons does have a diverse of theft and later proven innocent. staff and their prices are often times the lowest you can find in Fort Lauder- At one of their stores in the United States, security guards even abducted dale. Albertsons has a written nondiscrimination policy covering all LGBT the foster child of a gay couple and had persons and offers insurance plans that the couple arrested on false charges of shoplifting. Of course, they refuse any cover domestic partners. kind of inclusive insurance policies for LGBT persons and their efforts to creWinn-Dixie ate a non-discrimination policy are only 77% of political donanominal. Thousands of discriminationtions went to Demobased lawsuits have been filed. crats last year. They spent $0 lobby-

June 28, 2010 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

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