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Gay Lawyers Guilty of Kindness Page 4

February 15, 2010 • VOLUME 1 • ISSUE 4

SFGN EXCLUSIVE

‘Ex-Gay’ Icon is ex-con

‘Pride House’ Debuts at Olympics

Page 5

Page 9

Did Gay Chorus Sell Out?

page

INSIDE THIS ISSUE

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page

‘Lock Up Gays’ Says Family Spokesman

17

Page 3

Pet Project Supports HIV Patients

page

28

Speed Dating at Java Boys

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43

Stock Car Announcer Races Out of Closet

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February 15, 2010 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

Celebrations

Poverello’s Father Bill Turns 79

February 15, 2010 • Volume 1 • Issue 4

To be Honored at “An Evening with the Stars”

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

By Joey Amato

O

n Friday February 19, 2010, the community will come together for a very special Birthday Celebration: Father William Collins, founder of the Poverello Center and Food Bank will turn 79 years old.

The event will be marked by a very special program titled “An Evening With The Stars”. Hosted by the “First Lady” of Poverello, Nicolette, the evening will also include special performances by Joe “Joan Rivers” Posa, Cashetta, Dame Edna, Nikki Adams, Shardee Ross, Charleze Angel, and many other surprise entertainers. “An Evening With The Stars” serves as a tribute to the Father Bill’s unwavering work to feed thousands of men, women and children infected or affected by HIV/AIDS. “An Evening With The Stars” also includes a selection of gourmet appetizers, a cash bar, silent auction, raffles and many surprises for Father Bill. The event will be held at the Italian-American Civic League located at 2310 NE 7 Avenue,Wilton Manors. Cocktails begin at 7:00pm with entertainment beginning at 8:00pm.

Dale Madison, Fundraising Coordinator for the Poverello Center has known Father Bill for over 20 years. He told SFGN that tickets are almost sold out for the event. “Father Bill is an amazing individual and has helped so many people over the years.” Madison also just received word that Broward County is planning a Golden Jubilee celebration for Father Bill on June 26, which celebrates his 50 years in the priesthood.

Father Bill founded the Poverello Center and Food Bank in 1987, operating out of the trunk of his car and used much of his pension to open the first thrift store. 100% of all donations received by the center will go directly to benefit their cause.The Center currently serves over 3,500 people and provides 735,000

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

meals per year for people in need.

Advance tickets to “An Evening With The Stars” are $45.00 and currently on sale at the Poverello Office at 2292 Wilton Drive,Wilton Manors, Fl. or online at www.poverello.org.

Features Editor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Joey Amato joey.amato@southfloridagaynews.com

Lifestyle Editor. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A. Sebastian Fortino sebastian.fortino@southfloridagaynews.com

Arts/Entertainment Editor. . . . . . Mary Damiano

SFGNites Editor. . . . . . . . . . . . . . JW Arnold

Health/HIV Editor. . . . . . . . . . . . Paul Gallotta

Correspondents. . . . . . . . . . . . . . Robert Cherin, . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Steve Fritz . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Jesse Monteagudo

Contributing Columnists. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Creative Director. . . . . . . . . . . . . George Dauphin

Online Website Director (Master of Our Domain) . . . . . . . Tom Forcella tommy.forcella@southfloridagaynews.com

NationalGayNews.com Webmaster. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Bill Meyers

Display Marketing Associates. . . . Robert Brown, . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Brian Swinford . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . John Fugate

Display & Internet Marketing Manager. . . . . . . . . . . Cliff Dunn cliff.dunn@southfloridagaynews.com

Classified Advertising . . . . . . . . . Mike Trottier classifieds@hotspotsmagazine.com 954-928-1862

National Sales Representative. . . . Rivendell Media todd@rivendellmedia.com

Distributor. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . C harles Braun Enterprises

Printing and Publication . . . . . . . Miami Offset

Wayne Besen AJ Cross Piero Guidugli Deb Price Jennifer Vanasco Brian McNaught

South Florida Gay News.com is published weekly on Mondays.

Our paper is a member of the Associated Press.

The views and opinions expressed within this publication, in bylined columns, stories, and letters to the editor are those of the writers expressing them. They do not represent the opinions of South Florida Gay News.com, Inc., or the Publisher. They are included to promote free speech and diversity of thought.

You should not presume the sexual orientation of individuals based on their names or pictorial representations in SFGN, and it would be careless to do so. For the sake of readable newswriting, the word “gay” in SFGN should, when relevant, be interpreted to be inclusive of the entire gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgendered community.

All of the material that appears in SFGN, both online at www. southfloridagaynews.com, and in our print edition, including articles used in conjunction with our contract with the Associated Press and our columnists, is protected under federal copyright and intellectual property laws, and is jealously guarded by the newspaper. Thus, nothing published may be reprinted in whole or part without getting written consent from the Publisher of SFGN, at his law office, Kent & Cormican, P.A., 110 Southeast 6th Street, Suite 1970, Fort Lauderdale, Fl 33301.

SFGN, as a private corporation, reserves the right to enforce its own standards regarding the suitability of advertising copy, illustrations and photographs.

Copyright©2010 South Florida Gay News.com, Inc.

Associated Press

3

February 15, 2010 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

Gay Men’s Chorus Sells its ‘Brave Soul’ for Free Ads

By Cliff Dunn

T

his past week, the nationally published Arts and Entertainment Editor of SFGN, Mary Damiano, contacted Bradley Bush, the Administrator of the Fort Lauderdale Gay Men’s Chorus, and indicated that she wanted to do write about the organization and its upcoming season.

Damiano, however, was told by Bush that the “chorus is forbidden from sending press releases to SFGN or print publications or outlets other than The Agenda or Mark’s List,” and that an exclusivity contract had been approved by the Board of Directors to further that goal.

Contacted later by Features Editor Joey Amato, Bush then confirmed that no other gay publications could receive information, news releases, or advertising from the Gay Men’s Chorus, “that only mainstream publications could.”

Outraged by the information, SFGN Publisher Norm Kent immediately contacted Todd Wiley, the Director of the FTLGMC in order to verify the story.

Photos courtesy of Steven Shires

Wiley indicated that in fact the chorus had contracted last year with the Blade and 411 for exclusivity, as a means of saving the cash-strapped group advertising expenditures.

“We had given Hot Spots the same offer,” Wiley said.

Stated Wiley, “the magazine was going to give us in kind advertising for our group in exchange for us giving them exclusivity in promoting and sponsoring the chorus. We felt it could save us thousands of dollars.”

When asked whether that exclusivity went beyond advertising but included news and information, Wiley stated that he thought “Bush misinterpreted the agreement; that he would be allowed to send out news releases to gay and mainstream publications.”

Bush promised to produce the agreement and the news releases for SFGN’s review prior to the newspaper’s deadline on Saturday, but failed to do so “The advertising limitation was a decision made by the Board and its officers,” Wiley explained.

Wiley said the arrangement continued with Mark’s List and The Agenda after the bankruptcy of 411 and the Blade. continued on page 6

Wiley: band ad gagged

4

February 15, 2010 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

Gay, Lesbian Lawyers’ Network Find Counselors Guilty of Kindness

By Cliff Dunn

“O

ne of the things that drives this organization is the quality of its members,” says Lea Krauss, criminal defense attorney and co-chair of the Gay & Lesbian Lawyers Network (GLLN).

GLLN is composed of South Florida legal and allied professionals, with a stated mission of providing a social network through which gay, lesbian and gay-friendly lawyers can develop their practices through friendships, referral relationships and professional development.

Krauss’ co-chair and GLNN’s founder, Richard Stoll, says that when he came to South Florida, there wasn’t a resource for gays and lesbians that addressed the fine old art of practice-building.

“Many of the groups like Lambda Legal and Broward Human Rights Initiative that exist for GLBT attorneys are primarily service organizations. We applaud their good works, and many if not most of our members belong to one or more of them,” says Stoll.

“But in terms of actually networking with other gay lawyers who are interested in building their practices and marketing their businesses, it wasn’t there.”

Krauss says that GLLN’s purpose is to build a true business and social networking apparatus that lets its participating members support each other in their practices, as well as promote themselves within their firms, and generally offering a helping hand to each other when it’s needed.

Tanya Simpson, for example, shared her expertise at one meeting, conducting a

OK Resident Sues for ‘IM GAY’ License Plate

By Cliff Dunn

O

klahoma resident Keith Kimmel is suing his local government because it won’t let him acquire a personalized license plate with the words “IM GAY” on its face.

The Oklahoma Tax Commission, which controls the disbursement of license tags, has ruled that the phrase is “too sexual,” and therefore objectionable. It has prohibited its publication.

First reported on Qweerty.com last November, Kimmel has now retained an attorney and filed a formal declaratory judgment action asking a court to rule that the Tax Commission’s determination is an unconstitutional inhibition on his First Amendment rights.

“Under our state Constitution, all Oklahomans enjoy the right to freedom of speech and an equal opportunity to express their viewpoints,” Kimmel claimed in a TV interview promoting his case.

“Previous testimony in the administrative proceedings held on this matter has shown that the Commission is selectively granting and denying applications based on Commission employees’ own personal prejudices and viewpoints,” he said.

Stated Fort Lauderdale constitutional rights lawyer Russell Cormican, who has argued samesex civil rights cases, “The Constitution requires that state rules are viewpoint neutral, with an objective standard that puts the taxpayer on notice of what is legal and what is not. Mr. Kimmel may have a very valid argument that the Commission is improperly extending its authority.”

Kimmel said that the suit is not frivolous, but very much intended “to put an end to the Tax Commission’s unconstitutional practice of subjecting taxpayers to the whim of individual employees.”

Oklahoma authorities have not yet formally replied to the suit.

has been asked to participate in the “Out In Practice” event at Nova Law School sponsored and hosted by Lambda United, a GLBT organization for law students.

“Out in Practice” is a program which allows GLBT law students to interact with licensed attorneys and judges who are openly gay and well-respected in the legal community.

Stated Krauss, an attorney with ten years experience, “This event will consist of a panel of attorneys and judges talking to the students about our experiences as gay practitioners and professionals.”

It is scheduled to be held at Nova Southeastern University Law School on Friday, February 19th from 6 to 8 p.m.

In addition to networking and supporting its own members with marketing and Richard Stoll, founded Lawyers’ Networking Group practice-building, GLLN will ease access for members of the seminar on domestic partnership law. In GLBT community to find gay lawyers to fit another seminar, which can be used by the their own needs.

Says Stoll, a former prosecutor with the lawyers to fulfill continuing legal education requirements, attorney Arthur Smith may Manhattan District Attorney’s Office: “There are many instances when a gay or lesbian cliaddress probate issues for single men.

Stoll says that unlike service organiza- ent may feel more comfortable working with tions in which members donate money or an attorney who is sensitive to the client’s time to a cause, such as legal services to specific needs as a gay or lesbian person. the poor, GLLN’s members are cultivating These clients don’t have to feel self-conscious a group which can eventually be a resource when they speak with a lawyer who recognizes and understands their circumstances.” for the GLBT community collectively.

Krauss, a private prac“Many gay and lestitioner and former Brobian attorneys feel that “A gay or lesbian ward County assistant they don’t have the clout working with client may feel more state attorney, credits larger firms. GLNN is a comfortable working the group’s members for its growth and success vehicle to interact with with an attorney over the past two years. the local legal power who is sensitive Stoll is more specific structures,” Stoll obin his praise. “This orserved. “When they get to the client’s ganization would not to network with gay specific needs...” be what it is today lawyers and judges who have been here for a long time, and who without Lea’s hard work,” he offers, praising know how the South Florida courts and his co-chair. “She has her hand in a lot of players work, it gives you credibility and a our success.”

The group itself is generating business for base from which to enhance a practice.”

“So many of us get marginalized as practi- businesses. Some of its more recent events tioners because we don’t fit into the corporate have filled Rosie’s for a luncheon, The Towenvironment in all circumstances,” he noted. er Club for a dinner, and Smith and Jones on East Las Olas for a brunch. Two weeks “Our group creates strength in numbers.”

The organization clearly sees the wisdom ago, more than a dozen GLNN lawyers in getting its message out early to hopeful gathered for a wine tasting at the Seventh members of the bar. Krauss says that GLLN Street Wine Factory.

5

February 15, 2010 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

SFGN EXCLUSIVE

National Anti Gay Leader Is a Convicted Felon, Con Man

By Norm Kent Publisher

A

Arthur ‘don’t call him abba’ Goldberg

joint investigation by the organization Truth Wins Out and the SouthFloridaGayNews.com has revealed that the spokesperson for a New Jersey based national religious group seeking to ‘cure’ homosexuals is a convicted felon who has been hiding his past.

The leader of JONAH, Jews Offering New Alternatives to Homosexuality, Arthur Abba Goldberg, is now also serving as President of his Jersey City temple. He was sent to federal prison 20 years ago for a conspiracy to defraud the United States of America.

Additionally, Goldberg is presently the Executive Secretary of NARTH- the

National Association for the Research and Therapy of Homosexuality. The group hopes to heal “unwanted homosexuality” through “therapeutic care.”

One more group he supervises is PATH-

Positive Alternatives to Homosexuality- a coalition of religious, ministerial, and ex-gay groups promoting “non-gay alternatives to homosexual lifestyles.” He is their President.

Goldberg, who reinvented himself in 2000 as the founder of JONAH, was found guilty in 1989 of numerous felonies in multiple jurisdictions. The charges ranged from federal mail and wire fraud to conspiracy counts as a result of a bogus bond writing scheme.

Goldberg was sentenced to eighteen months imprisonment in the Central District of California, which he served concurrently continued on page 6

6

Anti Gay Leader continued from page 5

with a an Illinois sentence imposed at the same time. It was followed by five years of supervised probation and a $100,000 fine, eventually paid on November 24, 1999.

K. William O’Connor, the U.S. attorney who put him away, said at his sentencing that Goldberg was “a man who habitually took advantage of people who were economically dependent upon him; that he did not hesitate to lie or cheat or cover up to achieve his criminal aim. His greed has cause incalculable harm...”

Goldberg’s arrest and conviction rocked Wall Street when it went down two decades ago.

A purported whiz kid and investment guru, he had been often referred to on the Street as “Abba Dabba Do” and “Abba Cadabra.”

Those names and that past were all secreted when Goldberg founded JONAH after getting out of prison. Abandoning the conspicuously identifiable middle name of ‘Abba’, Goldberg authored a book for Red Heifer Press under the name of ‘Arthur Goldberg.’

Titled “Light in the Closet: Torah, Homosexuality, and the Power to Change,” Goldberg re-created himself as an author and spiritual leader, purporting to help individuals

Gay Men’s Chorus continued from page 3

“They called us,” he said, and “indicated they were the same people, and they were going to maintain the agreement we had with 411. So we said okay again.”

Wiley stated no representatives from Mark’s List ever indicated that they had formed a new corporation with new owners which had no legal ties to 411 or the Blade.

When Wiley was informed that neither the Agenda nor Mark’s List had any legal right to enforce the agreements of the defunct entities, he became perturbed.

“This changes the picture considerably,” he said, “We may have been misled.”

Yet, only hours later Wiley sent an email to SFGN Publisher Norm Kent reaffirming his organization’s commitment to maintaining “exclusivity in advertising and promotionsolely with Mark’s List and The Agenda for the remainder of the season.”

February 15, 2010 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com struggling with their sexual identity, telling gays “you can change.” He certainly did.

“We have long considered Arthur Goldberg a con-artist, but our investigation shows he is also an ex-con,” said Wayne Besen, Executive Director of Truth Wins Out.

concluded, “and Goldberg has now delivered us a book of lies.”

Born in 1940, Arthur Abba Goldberg identified himself his entire life by using all three of his names, at least until he got out of prison and started JONAH.

Goldberg is now president of his Temple Sinai congregation in Jersey City

“His diabolical past mirrors his dishonest present-day work with JONAH. Whether it was shady deals on Wall Street or shading the truth on gay issues, Goldberg is someone who lacks credibility and can’t be trusted,” said Besen.

“The Torah is the Book of Truth,” Besen

The TWO and SFGN investigation into his past revealed that when he authored articles for the American University Eagle in 1961 as an undergraduate, his byline was ‘Arthur Abba Goldberg.’

When he received his bachelor’s degree from American University in 1962 and his law

Clark pointed out They remain the only that last year a similar media sponsors on the arrangement inhibited choral group’s website. him from promoting an Asked whether marAIDS walk. keting the chorus to a Clark stated “that singular for profit pubthese agreements dilication, which serves minish the very purthe financial interests poses we are trying to of a private corporasupport and serve.” tion, when The Gay SFGN Publisher Men’s Chorus is a not Norm Kent has also for profit serving the posted his comments entire community, Bush regarding the situation had earlier admitted in his editorial today.

“SFGN is raising a valHe called the exid question. We may According to the Gay Men’s Chorus, SFGN is not allowed to publish this ad clusivity arrangement have to rethink this an “embarrassment to the Gay Men’s Choentire issue.”

For his part, Hot Spots publisher Peter rus and a disgrace to Mark’s List.”

Amongst the events the chorus has Clark found this type of arrangement “unconscionable... We are supposed to be trying to planned next month is a ‘Swing into Spring!” build a community amongst our businesses, not jazz fest, slated for Saturday, March 6, at the Sunshine Cathedral in Fort Lauderdale. tearing it down,” he said.

degree in 1965 from Cornell University, the diplomas were given to ‘Arthur Abba Goldberg.’

When he authored land use articles for the Urban Law Journal in the early 1970’s as a young lawyer it was under the name of ‘Arthur Abba Goldberg.’

It was also under the name ‘Arthur Abba Goldberg’ that he was admitted to the New Jersey and Connecticut Bar Associations, and it was under that name he served as the executive vice president directing Matthews & Wright, Inc., a New York underwriting firm, in which he was a major stockholder.

It was in the capacity as shareholder and vice president that Goldberg orchestrated a scheme of selling $2 billion in fraudulent municipal bonds for communities ranging from the impoverished city of East St. Louis to Chester, Pennsylvania, to the West Pacific U.S. territory of Guam.

The stories of his criminal acts were methodically detailed in the Philadelphia Inquirer, a paper based near the Chester community scammed severely by the fraud.

It was under the name of ‘Arthur Abba Goldberg’ that a United States grand jury on Guam indicted him in late 1987 on 52 counts of bribery, fraud, and conspiracy.

On September 26, 1989, ‘Arthur Abba Goldberg’ pled guilty in the U.S. District Court for the Central District of California to three counts of mail fraud. He was sentenced to 18 months as part of a plea bargain.

The trial had actually been moved to Calicontinued on page 42

A second event two weeks later will be a cantata drawing on the inspirational works and words of Gandhi, Jesus, Mother Teresa, and the Dalai Lama. That event is being billed as a night of “Brave Souls & Dreamers.”

Under the terms of the exclusivity agreement, if SFGN wanted to run a free full page advertisement promoting the Fort Lauderdale Gay Men’s Chorus concert next month at the Cathedral, it would violate their contract with The Agenda and Mark’s List.

Stated Damiano, who has covered the Fort Lauderdale Gay Men’s Chorus for the past nine years in three different publications, including The Express, the Independent and Miami Artzine.com: “I am hurt and disappointed that they would enter into an agreement which prohibits me from covering them. I have probably done more stories about them than any other writer in South Florida. This is a foolish move on their part.”

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February 15, 2010 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

Charitable Contributions Decline Sharply in ’09 Organizations Get Creative for 2010

By Joey Amato Features Editor

W

hile many local non-profit organizations have seen charitable contributions decrease sharply in 2009, local development directors are getting creative in 2010 by thinking out of the box.

Faced with a diminution in revenues due to a downturn in the economy, many nonprofit organizations be­gan cutting back expenditures in an effort to achieve their fiscal goals. But they are also planning creatively.

Norm Wedderburn, President and CEO of the South Florida chapter of the MakeA-Wish Foundation, reported a decline in revenue of 17% but is being inventive with their 2010 fundraising initiatives. “We are creating partnerships with local corporations to reach out to their customer bases.

ing these grants to donate the money to us.”

Mark Adler, SunServe’s Executive Director stated that “By July 2009, charitable contributions to SunServe were down 30% from 2008 while at the same time, the demand for services increased by 30% and clients were less able to pay for the services they received.”

Mark Bode of Florida AIDS Walk froze their yearly fundraising goal instead of increasing it. Bode states, “Based on the economic climate and that fact that many corporations have either eliminated not only financial support, but also in-kind support, we froze, rather than increased our goal of raising $400,000 this year with the Florida AIDS Walk”.

Riders in the SMART Ride Event

Furthermore, Make-A-Wish has begun applying for grants.”

Currently, grants comprise 5% of MakeA-Wish revenue, but Wedderburn hopes to increase that percentage this year. “All we need to do is convince the people oversee-

To compensate for the loss of sponsorship dollars, the organization has built coalitions and broad network bases with other community nonprofits to raise awareness of their cause in South Florida.

Bode states, “To continue to provide the

much needed and valuable services in the South Florida region, the Florida AIDS Walk will try to expand the number of walkers in this awareness and fundraising campaign, and encourage participants to meet and/or exceed the requested minimum of $25 in sponsorships.”

Sports, auction, and art seems to be a popular theme for fundraising. The Make-

Catholic Charities USA, which operates a Wilton Manors church and was one of the first local charities to aid in the Haitian relief effort, reported their donations jumped 21% in December 2009, as compared with 2008.

Patricia Hvidston, Senior Vice President of Catholic Charities, attributed the increase “in part to advertising in magazines and in New York’s Times Square.”

Norm Wedderburn, Sandra Bernhard, Chad Thilborger and Don Shula

A-Wish is promoting its next fundraiser as “The Ultimate Sports Extravaganza”, calendared for February 25 at the Westin Diplomat. This past weekend, the Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital sponsored the Tour de Broward, a run, ride, and walk for kids.

Wedderburn is bringing in a South Florida icon as a special guest. The events will be hosted by Don Shula, the former Miami Dolphins coach, who led the team to a perfect season and Super Bowl championship in 1972.

Broward House, another local AIDS service agency, fresh off the heels of its successful SMART ride, is bringing comedienne Sarah Bernhard to the Broward Center for the Performing Arts this month. In April, they are resurrecting the once incredibly popular ‘Art for AIDS’ auction at the Signature Grand Mansion, hosted

by Center One. According to the Chro­nicle of Philanthropy, which documents cha­ ritable fundraising nationwide, December brought mixed results for most groups.

Non profits generally reported significant drops in their revenues. Fiscal managers suggest that this will lead to spending restraints in the months ahead. Not every agency suffered, however.

The Chronicle of Philanthropy also suggested that donors are willing to still give, but just may be waiting longer to do so. A third of the nearly 400 nonprofit groups polled said donations last November were higher than they had been at the same time in 2008.

Economic downtown or not, local companies are still finding ways to give back to their community. FastPrintz, a South Florida-based printing company, has spent the last few months working closely with the Stonewall Library & Archives, developing money saving techniques.

The President of FastPrintz, Victor Flores, stated, “In combination with saving Stonewall money on their print, direct mail, sign and graphics needs, we would like to further support our community by preserving our history.” Flores noted, “We believe that a community is as strong as what its members put into it.”

Chad Thilborger, Development Manager of the Stonewall Library lauded their efforts, calling FastPrintz “exceptional.” To help meet the fiscal crunch for the Stonewall Library, Thilborger has also partnered with national corporations such as State Farm, American Express and Comcast. In addition, the Stonewall Library currently has five touring exhibitions, which will help generate revenue this year.

The main goal of the Stonewall Library and exhibitions is to educate today’s LGBT youth. “In order to get future generations involved in our community, we need to educate them,” states Thilborger. “What we do is not sexy, but it’s critical.”

And whether you are raising money to save books, or children’s lives, those efforts take money to achieve their goals.

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February 15, 2010 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

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he magazine, the longest-running magazine for GLBT women in South Florida, celebrated its 11th anniversary Thursday, Feb. 11, at a local venue on Wilton Drive.

The event featured DJ Sapphire from Chicago and a performance

by Drag It Out. She has been publishing insightful features, anchoring its unique niche in GLBT publications, since its inception. The ladies at She have interviewed major figures in the GLBT community and beyond, including Janet Reno, Melissa Etheridge, Indigo Girls, Lea Delaria, Cyndi Lauper, Lea Delaria and Sandra Bernhard. They have also produced provocotive features about women in the military, transsexuals, and breast cancer. She is primarily produced by the tight team of Tina Sordelini and Maria Espinal, along with a deicated cadre of contributing writers and columnists. The current issue features indie music darlings Tegan and Sara, who are slated to perform in South Florida later this month.

NAKED MEN PLAY BALL IN CONGRESS THE SHOT — A mural, painted in the late 19th century by Frederick C. Martin, that hangs in the Great Hall of the Library of Congress, and shows a nine naked men playing baseball. According to Library staffer Susan Reyburn, the mural has been there since the building opened in 1897, and is “one of about five images depicting ancient games, showing the Olympic ideal.” Except, as Asylum notes, “they didn’t play baseball in ancient Greece. Nor did they play American football, another anachronistic ceiling mural found in the Great Hall.”

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February 15, 2010 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

Gay Community Finds ‘Pride’ In Vancouver

T

he LGBT community certainly will have a proud presence at the 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games in Vancouver, even if there are not any openly gay athletes.

The first-ever Olympic Pride House is located in the boutique hotel known as ‘The Pan Pacific Whistler Village Centre,’ marking the first time in Olympic history that gay athletes will have a dedicated place to relax with family, friends and fans.

The Pride house was coordinated by GayWhistler.com, whose WinterPride gay ski week has been named the number-one gay-ski event in the world by Gay.com and PlanetOut. Pride House opened February 8 and will remain available through March 24, for three events: The Olympics, WinterPRIDE and the Paralympics.

“This is a very exciting time for the resort of Whistler, and I am thrilled to be able to contribute in making these games one of the most inclusive to date,” said Dean Nelson, 40, of Whistler, who is the CEO/executive producer of GayWhistler.com and Pride House. “There is a lot of excitement and energy around what we are creating with Pride House. It has never really been done before, and that is giving people a new reason to be excited about the Olympics,” he said.

“The local annual Gay & Lesbian ski week, WinterPRIDE, normally happens the first week of February. With the 2010 Olympics scheduled the week following, we needed to look at how we could work with our local community, tourism bureau and the Games producer in finding a time slot that would work for everyone. We determined that the transition period of March 1-8 in between the Olympics and the Paralympics would work best for everyone. Once we had secured the festival’s week we began working on a strategy to be part of the Olympics by creating a venue that would be a fun and celebratory place while creating a dialogue on homophobia within sport and beyond.”

Nelson said the only expectation for Pride House is “to create a warm, welcoming environment where like-minded individuals can come and cheer on their favorite athletes, meet people from around the world, and to create a dialogue on homophobia within sport by having this diversity pavilion part of the Games.”

Pride House has several events planned, including special movie screenings of Training

Rules, presented by CAAWS, the Canadian Association for Advancement of Women in Sports & Physical Activity; and Beyond Gay: The Politics of Pride, presented by PFLAG Canada (Parents & Friends of Lesbians & Gays). Both screenings will include special postscreening panel discussions featuring Canadian Olympic gold medalist Mark Tewksbury as emcee.

Plus, there will be a special presentation by Pride House artists Edmund Haa­ koson and Jeff Sheng.

“Our primary goal for Pride House is based on awareness and creating dialogue on homophobia within sports and at the community at large,” said Nelson, who has lived in the skiing mecca of Whis-

tler for 15 years. “Therefore, our goal is not determined by [ the ] number of visitors.

We know that people will be curious about the pavilion and will want to come and experience the pavilion and see some of the art exhibitions we will have on display, watch the Olympics, hang out and meet interesting people from around the world.”

We are privileged to run this piece by Ross Forman courtesy of the Windy City Media Group. The full and most excellent story is online at their superb website: http://www.windycitymediagroup.com/gay/lesbian/news/ ARTICLE.php?AID=25107 They are the only regional gay media group in the U.S. with multi-media projects, including an online podcast, two weekly publications, one monthly ethnic online magazine, and an online resource guide.

Men Go Online at Olympics

T

here are a couple of amateur but fun spots you can get some “gay” Olympics video this week.

One is over at Olympicsorbust.com, where Charlie and Tyler are posting regular updates from Vancouver. The two gay men are devout Olympics fans, and this is their second Olympics trip together. The videos they post are essentially personal experiences, so don’t expect interviews with gold medalists. But they are just happy to be there, and both Charlie and Tyler are very knowledgeable about the games and moderately entertaining.

You can also catch them at OurSceneTV.com, where their first video features lots of gay men and women who know absolutely nothing about sports or the Olympics (who knew toboggan was an Olympic sport). Thankfully interviewees Ryan Quinn and Mike Holtz picked up the slack.

10

February 15, 2010 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

National News

“Lock Up Gays,” Says ‘Family’ Leader Family Research Council Rep Wants You Jailed

FRC’s Peter Sprigg

By Cliff Dunn

A

senior representative of the Family Research Council went on national television last week and called for all men who engage in homosexual acts to be locked up.

Peter Sprigg, a senior fellow for the FRC, had been debating gays in the military when he ran into a hardball from MSNBC host Chris Matthews.

“So you think we should outlaw gay behavior,” Matthews asked.

“Yes,” Sprigg replied, adding ““I think that the Supreme Court decision in Lawrence v. Texas, which overturned the sodomy laws in this country, was wrongly decided. I think there would be a place for criminal sanctions against homosexual behavior.”

Sprigg is a policy maker and think tank rep for FRC, whose position papers and talking points are routinely adopted and disseminated by representatives of the religious right, and endorsed by their spokespersons on the Hill.

His answers to questions by Matthews evolved out of a discussion on why gays and lesbians should be prohibited from servicing in the armed forces.

“The presence of homosexuals in the military,” Sprigg replied, “is incompatible with good order, morale, discipline, and unit cohesion.” Then he threw in the part about locking us all up.

The disturbing endorsement came during the February 2 segment of “Hardball,” while Sprigg debated Aubrey Sarvis, executive director of the Servicemembers Legal Defense Network (SLDN), an organization which defends GLBT servicemen and women discharged under Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell (DADT).

This was too much for Sarvis, the for-

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mer chief counsel for the Senate Commerce Committee and a U.S. Army veteran.

“There is no data, there is no evidence, there is no study whatsoever that you can point to which supports that outrageous statement,” Sarvis responded.

During the “Hardball” broadcast, SLDN’s Sarvis challenged Sprigg’s data-less assertions. “I would also suggest to you that 79% of Americans today support gays and lesbians being able to serve their country openly,” Sarvis said.

Replying to Sprigg’s biblical arguments supporting anti-sodomy laws, Sarvis reminded Matthews’ viewers of the latest Gallup polling which states that “61% of weekly churchgoers support gays and lesbians being able to serve openly.”

In South Florida, American Veterans for Equal Rights (AVER) spokesman Andy Eddy was spooked by the stunning remarks of Sprigg. Said Eddy, “Gay and straight service members should be bound by the same limitations covered under the Uniform Code of Military Justice. We often hear of the argument against gays as being prone to unacceptable sexual misconduct while little, if anything, is ever mentioned about heterosexuals on the same playing field.”

11

February 15, 2010 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

HRC Names Worst Companies for GLBT Employees

By Cliff Dunn

A

ccording to the latest numbers from the Human Rights Campaign (HRC) Foundation, an unprecedented number of U.S.-based businesses have earned the organization’s top ranking as “Employers with Corporate Equality Index rating.”

HRC, the nation’s largest lobbying and political action organization for GLBT rights, lists in its just-released 2010 rankings 305 major U.S. businesses that earned the top rating of 100%.

That number is up from 260 in 2009, in spite of the nation’s continuing economic downturn.

HRC calls the Index “the premier benchmark for businesses to gauge their success on LGBT inclusion against competitors.”

The yearly survey looks at corporate treatment of GLBT individuals employed at hundreds of the nation’s largest companies.

Criteria for the Index’s evaluations include whether discrimination is prohibited on the basis of sexual and gender identity, and whether same-sex partners are eligible for health insurance benefits.

Also considered are diversity training, inhouse resource groups for GLBT workers as well as a company’s advertising and marketing campaigns.

Gay business leaders say the numbers reflect shifts in attitudes and economics.

“I have seen a lot of changes in the industry,” said David Feinberg, Senior Vice President and South Florida District Manager for Northwest Savings Bank. “Banks would have never placed ads in gay publications 20 years ago,” he said. Times have changed.

“Our financial institution is very active in the GLBT community.”

This year’s record 305 businesses employ over 9.3-million full-time employees; each one earned perfect scores.

At the GLCC opening this past Friday at Equality Park, Wachovia and Wells Fargo Banks were primary sponsors.

Not every company included in the survey demonstrated high degrees of inclusiveness or fairness, and many placed low—way low—in Index scoring.

Auto parts giant AutoZone placed ninthworst, another company that lost major

points for not providing health coverage to same-sex partners or prohibiting discrimination based on gender identity or expression.

Burlington Northern Santa Fe Railway, recently purchased by billionaire Warren Buffett, tied for fourth worst with an equality index score of 20. The company lost points by not extending health benefits to same-sex partners and not prohibiting discrimination based on gender identity.

Restaurant and freeway tradition Cracker

Barrel was third worst with a score of 15.

The chain does not provide partner benefits, require diversity training that includes sexual orientation, or prohibit discrimination based upon gender. (This may help to explain in part the origin of the name “Cracker” Barrel.)

And the world’s arguably most evil company, Exxon Mobil, tied for worst with an Index score of 0. The mega-corporation neither provides health benefits to same-sex partners nor does it prohibit discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender.

George Castrataro, a Wilton Manors-based attorney who helped establish the Broward Human Rights Initiative and who remains active in cases involving sexual orientation discrimination, says the Index is a reminder that there’s still a long way to go.

“I believe that while the Index is a very valuable tool in offering insight as to those companies that have policies favorable to the GLBT community, we must also understand that GLBT individuals across the country continue to face discrimination, harassment, retaliatory conduct in even the most progressive workplaces,” Castrataro says.

He adds that, “we are making enormous progress however, strong, proactive anti-discrimination legislation at the county, state, and federal level is essential in our journey toward equality in the workplace.”

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February 15, 2010 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

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Leafs’ GM Shares Grief Over Gay Son’s Death Associated Press-St. Louis Toronto Maple Leafs general manager Brian Burke made his first public comments Friday about son Brendan’s death last week in a car accident.

Brendan, a senior at Miami University and advocate for gay rights, was killed Feb. 5 in Indiana after his car slid sideways into the path of another car on a snowy road. Burke’s friend, 18-year-old Mark Reedy, also died in the accident.

“Obviously, last week’s been incredibly sad and difficult,” Burke, also the U.S. Olympic team GM, said before the Maple Leafs played the Blues. “I’ve been working all day trying to get through this without breaking down too much.

“You get the call you never want. It’s not supposed to be this way. Your kids are supposed to bury you. It was compounded by the fact that Brendan was a special kid. Not too many 21-year-olds had blazed a trail like that. He had a huge heart, had a great future in it, and I promised that his message will live on.

“It was also compounded by the fact that another young man, Mark Reedy, was also involved in the accident, it was compounded by the fact that it was a sudden death. It’s been a very difficult week, a very incredibly sad time.”

Burke was scheduled to travel to Vancouver on Saturday for the Olympics. He said his decision to skip the opening ceremonies was easy.

“I wanted to thank the (Leafs) players. I wanted to be here and I met with the players individually and thanked them and the coaches,” Burke said. “I felt I should be here.

I shouldn’t be celebrating the start of the Olympics. We’ll start worrying about the Olympics tomorrow. I didn’t have it in me. It would have been too tough to do. As proud as I would have been to be there, it would have been an impostor’s act. It would have been a person there that’s not focused at all.”

13

February 15, 2010 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

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February 15, 2010 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

Prop 8 Judge Is Gay! Religious Groups Want Him Tossed

A

fter a columnist for The San Fran­ cisco Chronicle claimed that Judge Vaughn Walker is gay, some religious groups are clamoring that he recuse himself from presiding over the federal trial for Proposition 8.

Several groups opposed to gay rights have issued statements that a homosexual justice constitutes an unacceptable bias in a case over California’s ban on gay marriage.

“The revelation that Judge Walker apparently chooses to engage in homosexual conduct, if true, would explain much of his bizarre behavior throughout this trial,” said Matt Barber in a press release from Liberty Counsel, a non-profit religious and political organization.

Barber referred to Walker’s decision to broadcast video from the trial online as an example of the “circus-like atmosphere” he

has created, though that decision was overturned later.

Walker has declined to talk about anything involving the Prop. 8 case outside court, and he wouldn’t comment to the San Francisco Chronicle when he was asked whether his sexual orientation was “relevant” to the lawsuit.

Ironically, Judge Walker is not popular amongst the San Francisco gay community, but rather held in contempt. What many religious groups are unaware of is that as a private attorney, Walker represented the U.S. Olympic Committee in a successful bid to keep San Francisco’s Gay Olympics from infringing on its name.

“Life is full of irony,” the judge replied when he was reminded him about that episode.

“There is nothing about Walker as a judge to indicate that his sexual orientation, other

‘We Are Everywhere’ Site Captures ‘Coming Out’ Stories ‘I’m from Driftwood.com’ Evokes Activism of Harvey Milk

By A. Sebastian Fortino

N

athan Manske sat in a theater last winter, watching the biopic “Milk,” starring Sean Penn.

Moved by Harvey Milk’s battle cry of “I’m from Woodmere, NY, and I am here to recruit you”, Manske came up with a unique idea.

Manske would chronicle the experiences of gays and lesbians in a website. All he would do is have them post where they are from. Manske’s premise was simple.

On his website, anyone can upload a story about their own personal experiences as a GLBT person. The stories are not limited to coming out stories. Instead, there are a host of varied experiences. A website of stories containing “Mom, pass me the cranberry sauce.

To read, or better yet, share stories go to www.imfromdriftwood. com and give hope to the hopeless by letting them know that we are everywhere.

I’m gay,” would tire out quickly.

The stories he collects are about our experiences as gay people. They range from witty to sad. The website boasts writers as young as fifteen, to people in their sixties and seventies.

“My main mission is to help and mentor gay kids so they don’t feel so alone,” Manske says. It is a sad fact that many GLBT teens often consider suicide. “I connected with Harvey Milk’s sign because I’m from Driftwood, another small town. I feel that saying where we’re from gets the message out, that we’re everywhere,” Nathan said from his home in Brooklyn.

Submitting writers simply insert the name of their town after “I’m From…”

This is a decidedly modern take on “Out of the closet and into the streets” of which Harvey Milk would doubtlessly approve.

“One of my latest favorite stories is about self-realization. Not just the author realiz-

than being an interesting factor, will in any way bias his view,” said Kate Kendell, head of the National Center for Lesbian Rights, which

Judge Vaughn Walker

ing he’s gay, but realizing it’s okay. He’s now looking forward to living an open, honest life. It’s an optimistic story that relays the message to gay people that it’s not only okay to be gay, but accepting yourself for who you are, is something to look forward to,” he said when asked about a favorite entry.

With over 350 stories from 25 countries, his website has become an international

Sample story

and YouTube video from

I’m from Driftwood website

resource for coming out stories and personal anecdotes.

“It was crazy,” he says, “how quickly things came into place.” He saw Milk on a Wednesday, thought of the idea on Thursday,

is supporting the lawsuit to overturn Prop. 8.

As evidence, she cites the judge’s conservative—albeit libertarian—reputation, and says, “There wasn’t anyone who thought (overturning Prop. 8) was a cakewalk given his sexual orientation.”

State Sen. Mark Leno, D-San Francisco, who has sponsored two bills to authorize same-sex marriage that were vetoed by Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger, said that as far as he’s concerned, Walker’s background is a nonissue.

“It seems curious to me,” he said, that when the state Supreme Court heard a challenge to Prop. 8, the justices’ sexual orientation “was never discussed.”

Leno added, “I have great respect for Judge Walker, professionally and personally.” But the Liberty Counsel does not. /NK and lost his job on Friday. He decided to use his unemployment proactively and launched the site. It has taken off worldwide, beyond his wildest dreams.

He now gets thank you emails from younger readers all the time. Older readers are glad the site helps people struggling with their sexuality, and wish they had a source like this when they were younger.

“This is a sign,” says Manske, “that I am on the right path.”

Launching the website out-of-pocket, Manske decided word of mouth – via emailing every GLBT blog that he could find—would be the most effective method of promotion.

“It worked, people were willing to help me promote it just because they were intrigued with the concept,” he said.

Last summer, when I met him at the First Person Arts Festival in Philadelphia he spoke about the possibility of a film. Now he talks of a book, putting together all the stories on his site.

“Making the book something other than a hard copy form of the website,” he feels, “will be the harder challenge.”

Manske does plan to do a tour throughout the US, visiting some of the small towns, and recording video of stories firsthand. He dreams of speaking at gay youth centers and high schools, where he hopes to gather more stories for the site.

15

February 15, 2010 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

America’s Youngest Gay Mayor

“Sometimes,” he said, “more than being gay, being young has presented obstacles in politics.”

But now the young man has be­ come the town’s new mayor. The youngest ever. And he will ou might not even handle the keys to notice Evan Low the city while workwalking down the streets ing towards a master’s of Campbell, California, degree from San Jose a suburban community State University. of 40,000 in the heart On top of that, eyeof Silicon Valley, where ing a future political Asian-Americans are career at a higher level, the second-most popuLow will maintain his lous demographic.

Mayor Evan Low duties as the senior Home to high-tech megaliths eBay and Netflix, Campbell is also district representative to State Assemblyone of the youngest cities in the Bay Area— man Paul Fong.

On a personal level, Low has remained the average age of residents is about 35.

Evan Low, however, is no ordinary sub- ambiguous about whether he is single or in a urbanite. Low, 23, made history in 2006 relationship. He says his ideal travel companwhen he became the first Chinese-Ameri- ion would be “Someone adventurous with can, openly gay, and youngest person to be high energy, willing to explore, and a night owl. Early risers are definitely a no-no!” elected to Campbell’s city council.

Y

Gay RI Mayor Runs for Congress

P

rovidence Mayor David Cicilline, 48, after succeeding former Mayor Vincent ``Buddy’’ Cianci, who was who was the first open­ convicted and imprisoned ly gay man elected to the during a federal probe into mayor’s seat in Providence, City Hall corruption.

Rhode Island, has announced The popular mayor frehis candidacy to succeed De­ quently vacations in South mocratic Congressman PatFlorida and has previously rick Kennedy, who is not been featured locally in The seeking re-election.

Express Gay News.

Cicilline declared his canFormer Democratic Party didacy on Saturday, claimMayor David Cicilline chairman Bill Lynch also ing that politicians in Washington hadn’t figured out their top priority formally declared himself a candidate for Kennedy’s seat on Saturday. It promises to should be creating and retaining jobs.

Cicilline is completing his second term, be a closely watched race.

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February 15, 2010 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

Lt. Dan Choi Drills with Guard Unit G Couples in a domestic partnership require smart wealth planning. Learn how we can help.

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Please join us at our informative seminar, “Wealth Planning for Domestic Partners,” which will examine these and other important topics: • Challenges facing domestic partners • The importance of wealth planning • Basic and advanced planning techniques • Gifting techniques Dates: Tuesday, February 23, 2010 Time: 9:30 A.M.

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ay rights advocate and ‘Don’t Ask, under DADT,” he said.

“The paperwork has been floating Don’t Tell’ (DADT) repeal poster boy Army Lieutenant Dan Choi returned to drill around the Pentagon very slowly,” Choi duty last weekend for the first time since said. “Usually people wait six or seven days for their discharge. Mean­ June 2009, when a while, I’m waiting for military review board months to hear back.” recommended he be In any case, he is staydischarged from miliing busy. On the night tary service for violatbefore he headed back ing the DADT policy. to duty, he headed to Choi reported that network after network, he felt welcomed back appearing on CBS, ABC, by his fellow guardsMSNBC, CNN, BBC, and men in his infantry al-Jazeera. unit. According to In one of his comChoi, his commandments to the media, ing officer and unit has Choi said. “We all have been highly supporta responsibility to honor ive of him, even after our soldiers and restore he was recommended Choi: still fighting discharge integrity by demanding for discharge.

Choi says that although he is back with the full repeal of military discrimination.”

“Do not accept compromise,” Choi said. his unit, drilling and preparing for a possible deployment, his discharge is still “Our American values have been compropending. “Any day I could still be fired mised for too long.”

17

February 15, 2010 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

Partnering Pets and People with Permanence Pet Project Helps Those Living with HIV

By A. Sebastian Fortino

V

ery quietly, for nearly a decade, a unique organization has been assisting persons living with HIV and dibilitating diseases to maintain a partnership with their best friends.

The group is called the ‘Pet Project’, and it is a non-profit organization committed to making sure that people can retain their pets

Rescued, saved and adopted

in the face of medical adversity.

The organization provides low-cost food, basic veterinary service, and transportation for those with limited mobility, to vets.

They administer vaccinations, and offer foster care when pet owners are hospitalized. They make it so sick people can worry about their health, and cultivate a support system allowing them to keep their animals.

Executive Director, Sue Martino, is proud to say that the organization maintains over 400 animals in the area. “We started out in 2002 with a grant from Robert DeBenedictis. He is basically the founder and each year we receive another grant from the R. N. DeBenedictis Foundation which allows us to cover our administrative costs.”

The organization’s mission was to fill a void left in the lives of people suffering

from illnesses. “Our inspiration was to help animals, and fill a need that falls through the cracks. If you have an illness there are social programs and outreach groups. But, there are no programs for people suffering from financial hardships due to medical problems to help their pets out.”

The organization does not place the pets with owners, except when the owner of a pet passes away. “Then,” says Martino, “we foster them and eventually find them a good home. We do adoption when needed.”

Just as important, studies have shown that a pet can add years to a person’s life. If you are elderly or ill, they can motivate and stimulate your mind and body. “Absolutely,” says Martino, “a pet can reduce stress, your blood pressure, and improve your health.”

Martino finds her work to be rewarding, because not only is she helping to maintain the wellbeing of an animal, but through the pets, helps out their owners.

“When you’re sick sometimes the only thing to get you out of bed in the morning is to feed the cat or play with the dog.”

Working with animals is supposed to be fun. Therefore The Pet Project has some unique events scheduled to benefit their cause.

You can support The Pet Project and work out a little bit while you’re at it! On the last Saturday of each month Get Firm Bootcamp will collect $20.00 from attendees and donate it to The Pet Project.

If working out is not your thing you can play Bingo for a worthy cause every third Thursday of the month at The Depot Bar at 1243 NE 11th Avenue, Fort Lauderdale.

Pets, of course, are welcome.

Sue is very excited about all of these events but promises that there are more to come. “We have many ideas for future events but none are solid yet.” To learn more about the organization, to donate, volunteer or track their events, please visit their website. www.petprojectforpets.org

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18

February 15, 2010 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

Letters, We Got Letters

As far back as 2002 in the express, mary damiano routinely covered the gay men’s chorus and their concerts

SFGN Editorial

2/15/2010

Norm Kent, Publisher

OUTRAGE!

Gay Men’s Chorus Taken Hostage by a Bar Guide

T

his week our newspaper learned that the Fort Lauderdale Men’s Chorus, in an effort to save money and secure advertising and promotion for their concerts, signed an exclusive contract last fall, with the now defunct 411 Magazine and South Florida Blade.

The terms and conditions of that secret agreement provided that the chorus would not be allowed to advertise their concerts in any gay publications other than those two venues.

In addition, the Administrator of the chorus interpreted that agreement to mean it included a covenant and restriction barring him from sending out news releases or doing interviews about the concerts to any other gay publications.

Consequently, when Mary Damiano, the nationally published Arts and Entertainment Editor of SFGN contacted the chorus this week for a story, she was turned down. All we were going to do was promote the Spring Concert season in picture and in print, distributing 13,000 copies to 350 locations in 3 counties.

The gay mens’ chorale groups in this town have properly won respect and stature in both ours and the heterosexual community. The group has even appeared at Florida Marlins’ games singing our national anthem, not one owned by a bar guide.

The Fort Lauderdale Gay Men’s Chorus is this community’s cherished chorale group, and not the property of Mark’s List, the South Florida Blade, or any other media entity.

The days of petty publications extorting not for

profits in exchange for free advertising have come to an end. Right here, right now, this moment, and never again. Every one of those deals will be exposed in this paper.

The South Florida Gay News.com will play on a ball yard called Equality Park.

Mark’s List and the Agenda, or their abandoned predecessors, the 411 and the Blade, will no longer pull this crap and get away with it. They have disgraced themselves.

The Fort Lauderdale Gay Men’s Chorus entered into this unholy alliance and unspeakable relationship because it was terribly convenient and financially expedient. In other words, they sold their soul to be hostage to one publication that would shower them with love and attention and in kind advertisements.

Our gay history is littered with gay media entities fashioning schemes to enrich themselves while hurting their competitors. It is not enough that they succeed. They want others to fail. This is horrendous, and must not stand.

What if a not for profit AIDS agency was having a free day of testing and could only advertise it in Hot Spots?

What if the GLCC was hosting a day on dealing with domestic violence at home and could only promote it in the Agenda?

How dare any Board of Directors subject themselves to any such restriction for any reason?

How dare any newspaper or magazine subject a charitable not for profit, belonging to our entire community, to such a limitation?

How dare any of us remain silent in the face of this transparent injustice which serves no one and hurts everyone?

When a not for profit opens it heart and soul to our community, we must all be there for them.

These charitable and community wide ventures must be promoted equally and in every magazine and in every newspaper; on every online site and on every blogger’s site.

The love and support must be unconditional, without any pecuniary restriction self-imposed by some childish publisher seeking to gain a pecuniary advantage over another competitor. Make no mistake about it. Those days are over!

SFGN COMPLIMENTED Dear Publisher I want to congratulate you on the SFGN! I just finished reading issue # 2 and feel very enthusiastic about the new and informative publication that will indeed have a great impact on the South Florida Gay community.

The easy to read format and timely informative articles will indeed be appreciated by those, like myself, who have been waiting for such an outstanding publication to come along.

Keep up the good work.

My best wishes for your continued success.

Sincerely,

Chuck Nicholls

Tuesday’s Angels

Fort Lauderdale

Dear Publisher, I’m very pleased to hear the launch of the South Florida Gay News publication.

I hope its success will venture north to Central Florida to launch a Central Florida Gay News publication.

Perhaps, if both readerships are strong -an aggregate of news content could lead to a Florida Gay News publication, but I’m always thinking forward, and sometimes not ahead.

But I’m always positive that there’s a lot of news in the Gay Community that’s either worth reporting, or exposing.

Much luck!

Scott L. Hamlin

Orlando

SUPER BOWL STEW

To the editor: I appreciate your coverage in the February 1, 2010, edition of SFGN about CBS rejecting a Super Bowl ad by the gay dating website ManCrunch.com, presumably because the ad features two guys kissing. However, CBS has previously allowed at least one other Super Bowl ad which showed two men kissing.

In a Snickers ad which aired on CBS during the 2007 Super Bowl, two men are working on cars in a garage. One man pulls out a Snickers bar and starts eating it from one end. The second man starts eating the same Snickers bar from the opposite end. The two men accidentally kiss as they finish eating the candy bar and as their lips meet in the middle. Then, Dear Publisher, to show how homophobic they are, the Congratulations on your new publicatwo men rip open their shirts and pull tion! My partner and I both find it to be out their own chest hair. The message very informative, interesting, and up to was that if straight men accidentally kiss, date. We look forward to enjoying many then they must do some violent act on more future issues! themselves as punishment.

Best Regards, So it appears that CBS does allow

Michael Stonier, Super Bowl ads which show two men

Oakland Park kissing, but only when those two men are extremely homophobic and hurt themselves afterward as punishment. CBS’s Dear Publisher “high moral standards”, on the other What! hand, ban pro-gay ads which show two A South Florida gay newspaper that consenting men kissing each other, withrequires more than a third grade literacy out the violence, but rather because those level and takes more than 30 seconds men actually enjoy kissing one another. to read!

CBS hates gay people.

Come on Norm, you and your staff Sincerely, are making life hard for us.

George Hampton Seriously, I’m very impressed by the first

Pompano Beach, FL issue, a sign that the gay press is not dead.

Keep it up.

Fred Fejes

Fort Lauderdale

19

February 15, 2010 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

Brian McNaught

Will They Believe Us When We Cry “Wolf”?

T

he Aesop fable about “The Boy Who Cried ‘Wolf’,” is wise counsel for anyone in the gay and transgender community tempted to cry “hate crime,” “homophobia,” or “transphobia.”

As the villagers admonished the bored shepherd boy who kept fooling them with his false alarms, “Save your frightened song for when there is really something wrong!

Don’t cry ‘wolf’ when there is NO wolf!”

It is not only social conservatives who reacted angrily to every charge of sexism or racism that has been uttered in the past forty years. Reasonable people committed to human rights also grew weary of the large number of minority people who claimed that injustice lurked behind every word and action directed toward them.

A white male friend of mine resigned his post as Human Resources Director at a ma-

jor university because he got worn down by the numerous daily charges of racism lodged by black employees who were being called on for sloppy work. Liberal male advocates of women’s rights scratched their head in confusion when labeled as sexist by a woman because they used the word “history” rather than “herstory.”

The shepherd boy in the Catholic Church is a 62-year-old white male named William Donohoe who claims defamation against the Vatican anytime anyone questions the behavior of church clerics. As the head of the Catholic League for Religious and Civil Rights, he has about as much credibility as

Deb Price

House of Cards Collapsing on Opponents of Gay Soldiers

T

he absolute worst nightmare of diehard defenders of Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell has become reality: They’re now fighting the Pentagon, including the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff.

“Speaking for myself and myself only, it is my personal belief that allowing gays and lesbians to serve openly would be the right thing to do,” Adm. Mike Mullen said in riveting, military-man eloquent testimony Feb. 2 before the Senate Armed Services Committee.

“No matter how I look at this issue,” the chairman of the Joint Chiefs continued, “I cannot escape being troubled by the fact that we have in place a policy which forces young men and women to lie about who they are in order to defend their fellow citizens. For me personally, it comes down to integrity—theirs as individuals and ours as an institution.”

The nation’s highest-ranking military officer concluded: “I also believe that the great young men and women of our military can

and would accommodate such a change. I never underestimate their ability to adapt.”

Game over.

Now, of course, the losing team can’t be expected to look at the one-sided score and just walk off the field.

Sen. John McCain—the Arizona Republican who in 2006 said if military leaders ever told him DADT should be repealed “we ought to consider seriously changing it”— peevishly lectured Mullen and the Defense Secretary Robert Gates, who also testified “I fully support” repeal: “Well, I’m happy to say that we still have a Congress of the United States that would have to pass a law to repeal Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell, despite your efforts to repeal it, in many respects by fiat,” McCain told them.

Further weakening opponents, Colin Powell, who as chairman of the Joint Chiefs in 1993 was the top gun against President Bill Clinton’s attempt to allow gay Ameri-

Pat Robertson as a spokesperson for what God’s will is. His “frightened song” no longer carries much weight.

Recently, a local headline stated, “Attack at condo was hate crime, police say.”

When I read the account, it didn’t sound

like an anti-gay attack to me, but rather an altercation between tenants during which the word “faggot” was used. If the man in question had been victimized because he was a homosexual, it would be a hate crime. But to call a person a “faggot” because he asks you to turn down your music doesn’t sound like there was cans to serve openly, declared that “attitudes and circumstances have changed” and “I fully support” the drive toward repeal.

Another former chairman of the Joint Chiefs, Gen. John Shalikashvili, had already advocated repeal, saying a nation founded on the ideal of equality “should recognize and welcome change that will build a more cohesive military.”

Here’s what to watch for next: • More hearings: A blizzard postponed Senate DADT hearings set for Feb. 11. When the heads of the Army, Navy, Air Force and Marines testify in coming weeks about their budgets, what will they say about DADT? • Pentagon preparations: A first-of-itskind Pentagon-conducted “implementation plan,” as Gates calls it, will include a study of the views of troops and their families.

While disturbing at first blush, if done right, it could help ease the transition.

“The question before us,” Gates testified, “is not whether the military prepares to make this change but... how we best prepare for it.”

• Legislative advances: Senate Armed Services Committee Chairman Carl Levin left open the possibility of inserting into the Defense authorization bill a moratorium on discharges during the study year, or even a full repeal.

“If there were a moratorium on it, then

as much hate as annoyance that anyone would dare ask for more quiet. Even when the woman tenant pepper sprayed the gay neighbor, accompanied by the word “faggot,” she did so when she saw him writing down the license plate of her brother-in-law.

She shouldn’t have sprayed him but did she do so because he was gay or because he was doing something that annoyed her? She may be homophobic, but was her crime motivated by hate?

If everything is a hate crime, nothing is a hate crime. If everything said about blacks, Latinos, Asians, and Native Americans is racist, then nothing said about them is racist. Every joke that involves a transsexual is not transphobic. Every gay or lesbian person disciplined at work is not done so because they are homosexual. Sometimes they’re incompetent or are not team players.

None of this is to say that there isn’t systemic racism, sexism, homophobia, transphobia, ageism, heterosexism, and other forms of exaggerated feelings of fear expressed by insecure people with inferiority complexes.

Racial profiling is a reality, but some black people are guilty whether or not the glove continued on page 39

Sec. of Defense Robert Gates

what I consider to be a slow pace then would be practical, more fair,” Levin told reporters after the hearing.

Meanwhile, Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand, DN.Y., proposes de-fanging DADT by forbidding the use of federal funds to enforce it.

• House work: House Armed Services Committee Chairman Ike Skelton opposes repeal. That puts him in a Sumo wrestling ring against a mighty big heavyweight, Speaker Nancy Pelosi. Need I say more?

At least for now, this debate will be missing the voices of the gay men, lesbians and bisexuals currently risking their lives for our country. That they are forbidden to speak up says everything about why this un-American ban must end.

Deb Price of The Detroit News writes the first nationally syndicated column on gay issues.

20

February 15, 2010 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

Dan Pye on Finance

Pictured: The Palms of Manasota, a gay and lesbian retirement community in Palmetto.

Retirement

More Traveling, More Golf…Then What?

W

ith as much anticipation as we all have for the day we retire, many people do not have much of a plan. With so much free time in retirement, things can get quite expensive.

Therefore, it is important to think about what retirement really could look like for you.

An effective approach to this issue can be a Lifestyle Review, involving the four basic building blocks to address in the correct order with your partner or individually and a financial advisor.

First, start thinking realistically about your everyday living. What will it cost to maintain the essential pieces of your lifestyle? Look at your fixed needs: housing, food, transportation, insurance, etc. This should be your primary concern. Comparing your needs with your sources for income will do wonders for your peace of mind.

Second, plan for the unexpected. Look at

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the potential for event risks separate from the market. Events like fire, storms, declining health, aging parents. How can you be prepared if your partners Mother had to move in or go to a nursing facility?

Third, is a more fun topic, discussing your wish list. Once you have evaluated your basic needs and potential trap doors you are much better prepared to discuss the possibilities for doing the things you have put off.

What are your future goals and ambitions?

How can your resources be maximized to give you the opportunity to realize them?

The final piece is your legacy. How important is it for you to set aside assets for your partner, family, friends, and favorite charities? This area is particularly important in planning because of our situation as members of the LGBT community and the unique planning challenges we face. What strategies are available to maximize you estate in a tax-efficient manner?

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Each of these concerns can have a significant impact on your retirement, both financially and emotionally. Develop a strategy, listen and communicate with a professional.

Dan Pye is a Vice President with Morgan Stanley Smith Barney in Fort Lauderdale. Previously the Finance Columnist for The Express, he specializes in working with the GLBT community, and can be reached at Daniel.Pye@mssb.com.

GLBT Elders Centers Gets Federal Funding

HHS

Secretary Kathleen Sebelius efforts to work with specific minority populatoday announced an award tions that are traditionally underserved,” said Kathy Greenlee, Assistant Sectotaling $900,000 over three retary for Aging who heads the years to Services and AdHHS Administration on Aging vocacy for GLBT Elders (AoA). “AoA has traditionally (SAGE) to establish the nafunded national organizations tion’s first national resource to provide technical assistance center to assist communities on providing supports and across the country in their services to African Americans, efforts to provide services Hispanic Americans, Asian and supports for older lesand Pacific Islander Ameribian, gay, bisexual and transcans and Native Americans. gender (LGBT) individuals.

Sec. Kathleen Sebelius LGBT older adults represent “The Resource Center will a community with unique provide information, assistance and resources for both mainstream ag- needs that also must be addressed.”

Among other tools, SAGE plans to develop ing organizations and LGBT organizations and will provide assistance to LGBT individuals a comprehensive, web-based clearinghouse as they plan for future long-term care needs,” which will include diverse resources, social networking tools, an “Ask the Experts” service, said Secretary Sebelius.

SAGE is the nation’s oldest and largest orga- web-based trainings and other features. nization serving LGBT older adults. In creating FOR MORE the Resource Center, SAGE will forge a partnerINFORMATION ship with 10 organizations with expertise in a About the National Resource wide range of areas including mainstream aging, Center, please contact: LGBT aging, culture change and competency Greg.Case@aoa.hhs.gov and program evaluation. The Resource Center will engage, empower and support mainstream About SAGE, please visit: aging providers, LGBT providers and LGBT http://www.sageusa.org/inolder adults to ensure that LGBT elders have dex.cfm the necessary and culturally appropriate supAbout the Administration on ports and services to successfully age in place.

Aging and its programs and services, “AoA frequently turns to national organiplease visit: zations to support our national network of www.aoa.gov community-based aging organizations in their

21

February 15, 2010 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

Susan Estrich

The Value of Diversity

D

iversity is not just a nice thing. It isn’t just about fairness or equal opportunity. Diversity is good business, essential business, especially for companies that market to women—or are covered by them.

The iPad and the men of Apple who promote it

If you have any doubt, consider the iPad. Is there a woman in America who did not laugh, or at least roll her eyes, the minute she heard that the newest, hottest tablet computer from one of America’s most ingenuous companies was going to sound like a feminine hygiene product? The iKotex is what most people I know are calling it, with apologies to Kotex.

So where were those women? The short answer is that, plainly, they were not in the room.

Go to Apple’s home page and look at the pictures and bios of key executives. I’ll tell you who you’ll find: Steve, Timothy, Scott, Jonathan, Ron, Bob, Peter, Mark, Philip, Bertrand and Bruce. All white, all men. If there is a “top” woman at Apple, at best she’s No. 12.

The video released by Apple to trumpet the genius of the iPad (it really does) is equally undiverse. Only men use the iPad. Only men talk about the iPad. It’s almost as bad as the name.

That might work if you were selling jock straps. It doesn’t work if you want American consumers—half of whom are women—to buy your product. Even car companies, notoriously male at the top, use women in their promotional campaigns. Did they really think we wouldn’t notice?

This is not a new issue at Apple. Every year in my law school class on gender discrimination, we review the latest Catalyst survey of Fortune 500 and Fortune 1000 companies in America that still have no women on their boards of directors, or no women among the top earners.

Every year, Apple showed up on both lists.

Finally, in 2008, Apple announced that Andrea Jung, the CEO of Avon (a very un-Applelike company that is full of women who sell to women, starting at the top), was joining Steve Jobs, Bill Campbell, Millard Drexler, Al Gore, Arthur D. Levinson, Eric Schmidt and Jerry York on its board of directors. Google’s Schmidt has since left the board, leaving Andrea and the guys.

I am sure that each and every one of the men who serves in a key position at Apple is more than qualified for his position.

But qualifications need to be defined more broadly if they are to reflect accurately what the business really needs. If half of your busi-

ness depends on women, then there is something wrong with any definition of qualifications that doesn’t take account of diversity.

I am absolutely certain that no one at Apple sat down and decided that women should be excluded from all the top positions. My guess is that the issue just never came up.

That’s the problem. These days, most discrimination is so totally unconscious that the people involved don’t even know they’re discriminating. It’s just that when they think about who the most qualified person is, they think of someone just like themselves. And when they’re sitting in a room full of people who look just like them, it doesn’t occur to them that someone is missing.

I know a lot of women who spend their days in front of Apple computers who are almost embarrassed that the company they so

love and admire could frankly be so blind and stupid. And finding out why doesn’t make it better. This is Apple’s chance to change.

Some years ago, a friend was having dinner with a group of male movie executives and agents, when George Burns stopped at their table. He looked at the group, shook his head, and in that special way laughed and said: “Get a dame.”

George had Gracie. Apple needs to find some dames. They will make a great company better.

To find out more about Susan Estrich and read features by other Creators Syndicate writers and cartoonists, visit the Creators Syndicate website at www.creators.com.

Charity Event

Mix on the Drive Holds Benefit for Haiti

O

n February 20th Wilton Manors will host a benefit to support earthquake victims in Haiti. Local performer Rayda Melendez will both host and sing at the event. Her brother, Freddy “The Karaoke Guy” Torres, will also co-host.

Locally, the talented siblings have performed at previous events with the Fraternal Order of Eagles. With local talent and experience by their side, it promises to be a wonderful evening.

“When the earthquake hit Haiti I felt the pain. I had to do something more than just donate a couple of dollars,” said Melendez. “I have been in the entertainment industry for quite some time. I thought it would be a great idea to put together a benefit utilizing local talent to raise money for the Haitian Relief Fund.”

This being Wilton Manors, not to mention Southern Florida, what a better way to raise money than a party?

Melendez approached The Mix on the Drive and co-owner Sharon Pickard enthusiastically supported the concept.

According to Melendez, Sharon and The

Mix wondered why there have been no local events to raise funds for the devastated country yet.

The show’s cast will include piano player Ivan Borak, “Side Show” host Jennifer McClain, female impersonator and diva Kennedy Davenport of the Voodoo Lounge. Peter Orlando, Christine Starke and Michael Elder have also signed on to donate their time.

Others names will surely join the lineup to support Haiti.

The doors will open at The Mix at 6:00 pm. At 6:30 pm raffle tickets will be sold.

Freddy Torres’ services as a DJ or Karaoke host will be awarded to the person with the lucky number. He promises to work the raffle winner’s Saturday night event.

So on Friday, February 20, make sure you clear your calendar to support Haiti.

WHERE: The Mix on the Drive 2283 Wilton Drive

Wilton Manors, Florida

WHEN:

954-630-1511 February 20 at 6pm

22

February 15, 2010 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

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23

February 15, 2010 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

Health

Dr. Will’s Five Steps to Great Skin

By Will Richardson, MD

➊

Of course at the top is: use Sunblock. Notice, that personally, I prefer sunblock, not a sunscreen. Most sunblocks provide a broad spectrum of coverage for the skin against the two types of harmful ultraviolet rays (UVR)—UVA and UVB. UVA has been most closely correlated to the development of melanoma skin cancer and age related changes of the skin, such as age spots (liver spots) and wrinkles. UVB on the other hand causes delayed tanning changes and non-melanoma type skin cancers such as basal cell and squamous cell cancer.

➋

Use mild soap cleansers. No matter what skin type you are, oily, dry, in between, you should choose a soap that is mild and non-abrasive to your skin to preserve the natural pH of the skin which is around 5.4. Excessive scrubbing, astringent

use, and over-cleansing the skin are a huge cause of hard to control complexions. Soaps that have a higher or lower pH can change the natural milieu of oils and bacteria found on our skin causing acne and excessive dryness that result in inflammation of the skin (irritant dermatitis).

➌

Moisturize daily. Applying the proper moisturizer to your skin will keep the luster high resulting in beautiful skin with great tone. Finding a moisturizer that works best for your skin can be challenging. In brief, if you have oily skin, go with a lighter lotion moisturizer, while for those of you with dryer skin truly need a cream-based moisturizer. The greatest secret of all—some of the best moisturizers have generic equivalents available right in your pharmacy on the bottom shelf and not at some highend make-up counter.

Staff of Natura Dermatology

➍

Get on board with an anti-aging cosmeceutical. Retinols, peptide complexes and antioxidants are a few of my favorite things right now to look for to assist with the battle against time. Most importantly is to use these sparingly and routinely.

Patience is a virtue for the optimum results.

Most of the effects of these compounds are not observable until six months or so.

➎

Regularly exfoliate your skin. Our skin is composed of several layers of cells, the outermost of which is a dead skin cell layer that holds in moisture, but at the same time, reduces our skins appealing texture. Most exfoliating products and techniques utilize a variety of fruit acids or artificial glycolic, lactic, salicylic, or trichloroace-

Pill Shocker! weigh its risks. Videx capsules prevent HIV from multiplying and are used in combination with other virus-fighting drugs in adults and children.

The agency added warnings to the drug’s label about the signs and symptoms of the liver disorder. According to the new labeling, patients “should be monitored for early signs of portal hypertension during routine medical visits.’’

New York-based Bristol Myers Squibb said the FDA is also requiring the company to design a medication guide for patients that details Videx’s risks. “`As with all our medicines, we work closely with the FDA to monitor safety events,’’ the company said in a statement.

Dr. Richardson currently practices in Fort Lauderdale, FL. Visit their website at www.NaturaDermatology.com

CUSTOM ALARM

US Issues VIDEX Warning for HIV Patients WASHINGTON (AP) — U.S. government health officials said Monday that patients taking a Bristol-Myers Squibb drug for HIV are at risk of a rare, but potentially fatal, liver disorder.

The Food and Drug Administration said it has received 42 reports of the disorder since Videx was approved in 1991. Four patients died from bleeding or liver failure after developing the problem, known as non-cirrhotic portal hypertension.

The problem involves dangerously slow blood flow though the liver, which can cause veins in the esophagus to swell.

These veins are thin and can cause burst, causing potentially deadly bleeding.

FDA says it is keeping the drug on the market because its benefits to patients out-

tic acids. Mechanical modalities have been reviewed and include microdermabrasion or aggressive resurfacing with lasers. Routine use of simple over the counter exfoliants will facilitate the regenerative process beneath the skin surface causing youthful collagen to develop time after time. Be careful to use these products as directed by the companies, or only have the “advanced” procedures done under direct supervision of a Board Certified Dermatologist to avoid potential unwanted side effects including scarring. In the long run it may cost more out of pocket, but the end result is beautiful every time.

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24

February 15, 2010 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

Humor BEST COMEBACK RESPONSE OF THE YEAR If you ever testify in court, you might wish you could have been as sharp as this policeman. He was being cross-examined by a defense attorney during a felony trial. The lawyer was trying to undermine the policeman’s credibility...

Q: ‘Officer -- did you see my client fleeing the scene?’

A: ‘No sir. But I subsequently observed a person matching the description of the offender, running several blocks away.’

Q: ‘Officer -- who provided this description?’

A: ‘The officer who responded to the scene.’

Q: ‘A fellow officer provided the description of this socalled offender. Do you trust your fellow officers?’

A: ‘Yes, sir. With my life.’

Q: ‘With your life? Let me ask you this then officer. Do you have a room where you change your clothes in preparation for your daily duties?’

A: ‘Yes sir, we do!’

Q: ‘And do you have a locker in the room?’

A: ‘Yes sir, I do.’

Q: ‘And do you have a lock on your locker?’

A: ‘Yes sir.’

Q: ‘Now why is it, officer, if you trust your fellow officers with your life, you find it necessary to lock your locker in a room you share with these same officers?’

A: ‘You see, sir -- we share the building with the court complex, and sometimes lawyers have been known to walk through that room.’

The courtroom EXPLODED with laughter, and a prompt recess was called.

25

February 15, 2010 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

By Mary Damiano Arts Editor

K

ate Clinton loves to make people laugh, if it causes embarrassment or injury.

“Whenever food has passed through someone’s nose or mouth, I’m happy. When someone says to me after a show, ‘I pulled a muscle,’ I’m happy,” says Clinton, who will bring her Lady HaHa Tour to Broward Center in Fort Lauderdale on Feb. 20, the finale of the two-week GLBT arts festival, Art Explosion.

Clinton has been a stand-up comic for more than 30 years. Her first foray into the world of comedy came about because while Clinton had always talked about trying stand-up, she never took that next step. A friend who was sick of hearing her talk the talk but not walk the walk signed her up to perform at a club. That first show in her home town went great, because the house was packed with friends. Her second show in front of strangers in Boston?

Not so much.

“Because I had taught high school English, I knew to keep going,” says Clinton, who describes her teaching career as “eight years in front of a hostile audience.”

“I love to make people laugh, and I don’t mind having people think about things,” Clinton says. “I actually think that’s the job of a comic. We’re all inundated with information, but we don’t have a place where it’s synthesized. I think that’s my job. That and making people blow food through their noses or hurt themselves laughing. All mascara should be under the eyes.”

Clinton will perform with Lily Tomlin later this year. The gig came about at a fundraiser when Clinton was auctioning

Kate the Great Queen of Comedy Kate Clinton Coming to Broward Center

PHOTO BY Rory Gevis

off a lunch with herself for charity. The bidding had reached $1,000. Tomlin, who had received an award at the event, said she would come to lunch dressed as her character Ernestine, the telephone operator. Onstage, Clinton says, Tomlin became Ernestine and Clinton morphed into her butch protector. The final bid for the lunch was $7,000

Over the years, Clinton has established herself as an activist for gay rights. The many facets of her career, as a writer, a speaker, and a performer, all have roots in Clinton’s original profession as a teacher.

“My job will be done when a young gay person’s next thought isn’t, ‘Oh my god, I’m going to get creamed at school and I’m going to commit suicide.’”

Clinton recently performed in Missouri, where members of the infamous Westboro Baptist Church protested her.

“They didn’t even change the signs,” Clinton says. “There was a room full of lesbians and the signs said ‘God Hates Fags.’”

Right now, Clinton is watching the trials regarding gay marriage in California.

“I think it’s only fair that if we have a show trial on same-sex marriage we have a trial on same-old-sex marriage,” Clinton says.

Clinton does see a day when gay and lesbian people are not treated like second class citizens.

“I think some of the gray-haired guys have got to die off,” says Clinton, who sees tolerance in her young nieces. “I think as young people move up, the level of tolerance will increase.”

Clinton has many anecdotes of women telling her that she made it easier to come out, that seeing her perform or on TV helped a young woman feel less alone.

“We all want to have an impact,” says Clinton. “I know that I’ve touched a couple of people, and that’s amazing.”

Clinton does have one goal she’s hoping will be achieved at some point in her life.

“I would like to have my name in the New York Times Sunday crossword puzzle,” she says. “I think that would fabulous. I actually call people when they’re in the crossword puzzle. Margaret Cho—how hard is that? Margaret blank: three letters. I got nothing. But it’s a goal.”

Kate Clinton will perform at Broward Center’s Amaturo Theatre in Fort Lauderdale Saturday, Feb. 20, part of Art Explosion. For tickets and more information, call 954-462-0222 or visit www.browardcenter.org or www.artsunitedonline.org.

26

February 15, 2010 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

FACE THE S IN NEW S

Dining Review

WHERE: Truluck’s

584-A East Sunrise Blvd.

2 Fort Lauderdale 954-396-5656

By Joey Amato Florida AIDS Walk Team Captain Reception at the W Hotel Sponsored by the AIDS Healthcare Foundation Celebrants dressed regally for the GLCC ribbon cutting. See more photos of the event on www.SouthFloridaGay News.com

Pompano Bill captured this smiling photograph of the late Allan H. Terl during a Pride Festival at Holiday Park in 1992. Allan was a Fort Lauderdale lawyer, volunteering for the ACLU, whose pioneering work on behalf of AIDS patients set national precedents that AIDS was a condition within the meaning of civil rights laws to protect the disabled. In an era and age when the cause was neither popular or accepted, he endured hate calls and threats on a daily basis.

Allan served on and chaired virtually every community AIDS task force and eventually authored ‘AIDS and the Law: A Guide for the Non Lawyer.’ Counseling those living with HIV on a pro bono basis, he was awarded the Lifetime Advocacy of Human Rights Award from the Dolphin Democratic Club in 1990. He fought to provide AIDS awareness and education as a professor and political activist, leaving a mark and measure in our community eclipsed others.

Less known of Allan was his passion for gaming, and he became one the few national experts on contests, sweepstakes, and lotter-

Glenn Douglas Packard & boyfriend Daniel Miagany at the Kardashian’s Leather & Lace Super Bowl Party in Miami

ies, serving as the first legal advisor to the Maryland State Lottery, eventually writing a book on ‘Winning Ways in Contests.’ Boy, did he ever win them from radio stations and local promoters, taking home cars, furniture, and television sets and a wealth of prizes, then often donating them to those serving and living in hospices with HIV.

T

hose who haven’t had the opportunity to experience Truluck’s, at the Galleria Mall, should take the time to visit this fine seafood, steak and crab house. The restaurant is divided into two distinct areas, the main dining room and a piano bar. The bar comes alive during Cocktail Hour (4-7pm), when all martinis and appetizers are half-price. The friendly and knowledgeable bartenders are eager to attend to your every need.

As I sipped my delicious Paradise Martini made with Bacardi Coco Rum, my guest looked over Truluck’s extensive wine menu. After settling on a glass of pinot grigio, our wonderful host Martin brought over a large silver platter containing all of the fresh fish selections for the evening. Incapable of making a decision, we asked Martin to prepare an assortment of chilled seafood for us to sample.

After a few minutes, we were presented with an iced serving tray consisting of Canada Cup and Shiny Sea oysters, chilled jumbo shrimp and Florida stone crab claws.

The jumbo shrimp was fresh and although I wasn’t a huge fan of the stone crab as I prefer the sweetness of Alaskan King Crab, I loved the oysters, which arrive daily from Prince Edward Island.

Along with our selection of seafood, we ordered the Sautéed Superlump Crabcake.

I think my lack of words after the first mouthful said it all. The cake contained 98% lump crabmeat and was absolutely delightful. The sauce accompanying the dish was also a testament to Truluck’s dedication to providing the highest quality seafood.

To quench our palate after our seafood feast, we decided to sample a bowl of Gulf Coast Gumbo. Although it was a little too

spicy for my taste, my guest seemed to enjoy it tremendously, as not a grain of rice remained in his bowl. Those opting for a salad should try the Knife & Fork Caesar, consisting of romaine, anchovies, shaved pecorino and creamy dressing.

By the time our dinner arrived, the restaurant and bar had filled with liveliness. We could hear the chorus of Elton John’s “Your Song” in the piano bar. There was not one empty table in the entire restaurant.

For our entrees, I decided on Beef Oscar, an 8oz Filet Mignon topped with fresh blue crab claw meat, shaved asparagus and jalapeno béarnaise. In addition, our host recommended that I try the Nigerian King Shrimp as well.

The beef was cooked perfectly and the blue crab was delightful. However, the King Shrimp was slightly overcooked and tough.

My guest ordered the Miso-Glazed Seabass, a South Georgia Chilean seabass served with crab fried rice and chilled cucumber slaw. Everything about this dish was flawless. From the texture of the fish, to the tasty rice,Truluck’s got it right and I would highly recommend this entrée.

And if that

weren’t enough, Martin insisted that we sample some of the restaurants homemade desserts. He neglected to mention that each dessert could feed an entire army.We ultimately decided on the Carrot Cake with candied pecans, topped with warm butterscotch sauce and the Layered Espresso Ice Cream with crumbled Oreo cookies, crème en glaze, roasted pecans and chocolate sauce.

The towers of delectableness were a bit overwhelming, but we enjoyed every minute we had, trying to put a dent in the selections.

In the battle of Man vs. Dessert, dessert won!

The next time you’re in the mood for great seafood or half-priced cocktails, stop

by Truluck’s.

27

February 15, 2010 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

Theatre Review

PLAY:

The 39 Steps

Runs through February 28 Parker Playhouse, 707 NE 8 St., Fort Lauderdale.

For tickets and more information, call 954-462-0222 or visit www. parkerplayhouse.com.

The 39 Steps Is 2 Hours of Fun Classic Hitchcock film is brought to life on stage

IT’S BROADWAY AT ITS BEST WHEN

and Scott Parkinson marvelously play everyone else—spies, detectives, innkeepers—even rocks and shrubbery.

Part of the fun is watching the lightning quick character changes, which often involve nothing more than an actor whirling around and changing a hat, or just adapting a different accent or body language.

Deasy is picture-perfect as a man on the run, whose dry wit shines through even when his life is in jeopardy. Brownell plays her three roles—as a femme fatale spy, a cowed farm wife and as a savvy partner in espionage—with aplomb. But as good as they

Patti LuPone TAKES THE STAGE!

TUESDAY FEBRUARY 23 AT 8PM Tony Award-winning Broadway star Patti LuPone, fresh off her triumphant run as Mama Rose in Gypsy, takes us on a high-spirited tour of songs from her colorful life both on and off the stage, including selections from Gypsy, Anything Goes, and other Broadway classics in her acclaimed new one-woman concert, "The Gypsy in My Soul."

By Mary Damiano Arts Editor

F

asten your seatbelts—The 39 Steps is one wild ride.

The 39 Steps, on stage at Parker Playhouse through February 28, begins as so many stories do: a bored man is swept up into a world of intrigue when a gorgeous spy entrusts him with the fate of his country before she is mysteriously murdered in his flat. He goes on the run, not only to prove his innocence but also to save the world.

The 1935 film, directed by Alfred Hitch-

For Tickets and Group Discounts call 954.462.0222 or

www.BrowardCenter.org

The cast of The 39 Steps.

are, the show belongs to Hissom and Parkinson. You never know how they’ll pull off their next quick change or who they’ll show up as next. Occasionally they’re just a sight gag, but more often than not they create a new character out of nowhere.

For a theatrical production, The 39 Steps is gloriously cinematic, with a lush score and inventive lighting by Kevin Adams and sound design by Mic Pool. The chase sequences are both action-packed and comical, including a thrilling chase across the top of a moving train and an hysterical flight through the Scottish countryside done in silhouette.

The 39 Steps has its tongue firmly planted in its cheek. It calls attention to itself as a play on sevEric Hissom chases Ted Deasy across the top of eral occasions. It’s also an homa moving train in The 39 Steps. age to the great Alfred Hitchcock, cock, starred Robert Donat and Madeleine and finds away to drop about half a dozen Carroll. The unique part of the stage play Hitchcock film titles into the dialogue and recis that four actors play all the roles in The reates several iconic Hitchcock movie scenes.

39 Steps. Actually it’s more correct to say Hitchcock even makes one of his trademark that Ted Deasy plays the wrongly accused cameo appearances in The 39 Steps.

The 39 Steps is a don’t miss show, a real main character Richard Hannay, leading lady Claire Brownell plays three charac- treat for both theatre lovers and movie ters, and the other two actors, Eric Hissom lovers.

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

All special offers cannot be combined with other discounts or previous purchases. Certain restrictions apply.

The Golden Gays “Outrageous, uproarious and over the top!”

– L.A. Weekly.

“A fast-paced bitchy good time!”

– L.A. Splash

East Coast Premiere!

Co-sponsored by MiamiBeachGayPride.com

This new musical spoof on “The Golden Girls” explores the world of four older gay men who are obsessed with the Famous Foursome. Thanks to their equally dysfunctional therapist, they are able to indulge their obsession through a novel new therapy, which involves them all moving in together to live as the Golden Girls. A sell-out in Los Angeles.

Friday Feb. 26 (at 8pm), Saturday Feb. 27 (at 8pm) & Sunday Feb 28 (at 6pm).

The Colony Theatre on Lincoln Road At the Colony Box Office or at our website: www.thegoldengaysflorida.com (No service fee) Also: www.ticketmaster.com (Service fee applies)

28

Melting into One Gay Couple Is at the Heart of Miami Play

By Mary Damiano

at Gusman Hall in downtown Miami last year, giving away 900 seats to students who not typically get to the theatre. That niting South Florida one scene evening was so successful that some busiat a time—that’s the tagline of ness leaders decided to produce Melt again Melt, a play by Davie-based under the tagline one community, one play.

Melt is directed by McKeever’s partner, playwright Michael McKeever, which will open a two-week run Actors’ Playhouse in director Stuart Meltzer. The men live together and have been a couple for six years.

Coral Gables on Friday, Feb. 19.

Melt is only the second time the couple has worked together; Meltzer directed McKeever in a production of Kiss of the Spider Woman.

Meltzer has been involved in every aspect of Melt. He acted in the world premiere production, he’s directed the play, and he was the inspiration for the character of the gay teacher. McKeever sees Director Stuart Meltzer and playwright Michael McKeever: the gay relationship partners in real life and in Melt. in Melt as the next Melt premiered at New Theatre in 2007 step in the evolution of how gay men are and won the Carbonell Award, South Flori- portrayed on stage.

“Back in the 1970s, gay plays were all about da’s award for theatrical excellence, for Best New Work. The play deals with the melt- self-loathing and abusing ourselves, then in ing pot of Miami—a black family, a Jewish the 1980s, all gay plays were about AIDS, family, and a Cuban family—and different and then in the 1990s they became about kinds of families, specifically those we’re naked guys on stage,” says McKeever. “I’m born with and those we create. One of the tired of that. With this play what I tried to relationships at the heart of Melt is that do is show a really well-rounded interracial of an interracial gay couple—an African- gay couple living with the problems that American male nurse, and his partner, a gay couple have. In this situation, why do white, Jewish, teacher—in the beginning you adopt a child? Do you do it because you want to raise a child or are you doing it for stages of adopting a child.

Leadership Miami, an off-shoot of the militant or political reasons?”

McKeever used the conversations he Greater Miami Chamber of Commerce, produced Melt for a one-night-only run and Meltzer have had regarding adoption as a starting point for the adoption quesMelt runs Feb. 18-28 at the upstairs theatre tion in Melt. In real life, Meltzer is more at Actors’ Playhouse, 280 Miracle Mile, ready to adopt a child that McKeever, and Coral Gables. For ticketys and more inforthe names have already been chosen for an mation, call 305-444-9293 or visit www. addition to the family. actorsplayhouse.org. For more information “I’m at a position in my life where about Melt, visit www.meltmiami.com.

I’m itchin’ in the kitchen,” Meltzer

Arts Editor

U

February 15, 2010 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

says with a laugh.

“My kitchen is closed,” jokes McKeever.

But the adoption question brings up another important issue for the couple: marriage, which, like adoption, is not legal for gay people in Florida.

“What’s more important for us is that we would love to be legally bound,” says Meltzer. “I get very, very angry that those rights are not there for me.”

“In every single way that’s important— except for the legal way—we’re married,” says McKeever.

Meltzer believes that Melt is the play that’s closest to their relationship in real life, and believes that a lot of gay couples will see themselves reflected in the play.

“The gay couple in the play is not a fantasy couple,” Meltzer says. “It’s an honest, true-to-life, modern gay couple just trying to make sense of their life together.”

“One of my favorite comments from the original production is that a gay couple came me and said, ‘You know us,’” says McKeever. “That was a real compliment.”

Speed Ring Intercepted in Wilton Manors

By A. Sebastian Fortino

F

ear not, by speed ring I mean Speed Dating. On February 10, the Java Boys Café in Wilton Manors hosted 18 single—or so they claimed—men hoping to find a little romance before D Day. Well, V Day, as in St. Valentine.

The event was hosted by Nicki, owner of Java Boys, and Ken Gesel, a pharmaceutical representative and Java Boys devotee. Michael, who assisted at the event, was effervescent in his selfdescribed role as Vanna White for the evening.

“Nicki and Steve are just great folks. They had hosted one before, last summer and I asked to assist. It was so much fun that I just asked if I could emcee. Last night was my second time in that role,” Ken said of the event.

The event was a success. Ken was happy to have a few new faces and two matches were made. “I think everyone had a good time. Even if people didn’t get a new mate they might have a new friend which is a good thing as well.”

Speed Dating, if you’re not familiar, involves an even number of contestants.

I say contestants because in addition to walking away with a human prize, gift certificates to local businesses, such as Tropics, and the Courtyard Café were awarded to the most popular gents. Contestants

have three minutes to get to know the other person. After three minutes, in which you take notes to remember that person, you are asked to move down and talk with the other participants.

Out of the 12 bachelors I spoke with only 4 of them tried speed dating before.

The ages, looks, and occupations of the guys were all varied. They represented a nice cross-section of local gay singles.

Michael, Nicki and Ken

“This is a fun, different way to socialize,” said barista Kenny, who served Love Potion Number 9 coffee drinks. “It’s a lot more relaxed than a bar.”

In order to keep things fresh, one must keep encourage spontaneity. Therefore, Java Boys owner Nicki will always surprise us with something new and innovative.

So, if you went last night and are looking for more speed dating, or even a long-term relationship with a Scrabble Game, let Nicki know your interest!

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February 15, 2010 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

Mark Corbett Walks Along a New River Magazine Publisher Involved in Businesses and Charities

By Joey Amato

B

orn and raised in Montebello, California, Go Riverwalk Magazine publisher Mark Corbett has lived a not-so-traditional life. A father of three, Corbett began his publishing career in New York City serving as Associate Publisher of Lesbian & Gay New York (LGNY), a bi-monthly newspaper. “I then became National Advertising Sales Manager for Columbia FunMaps,” Corbett tells SFGN.

The Business Leader Upon arriving in Florida, Corbett began publishing a local neighborhood newsletter which caught the attention of The Riverwalk Trust, an organization created to raise capital for ongoing Riverwalk promotions and improvements.

Go Riverwalk Magazine began as a newsletter in 2004 and was transformed to its current magazine format in 2005. “My vision from day-one was to serve the people that live, work, and play in our great city with current information and features on the arts, our urban lifestyle, city business, dining and a slice of everything and anything Fort Lauderdale.”

As with many other industries, publishing has been hurt tremendously by the recession, but Corbett remains optimistic for the coming year. “2010 looks to be a very promising year. My mantra for most of last year was “creative solutions for challenging times.” It worked and got us to where we are today. This year our mantra is a bit simpler but equally powerful: “creativity, prosperity, and happiness are all states of mind.”

Go Riverwalk Magazine currently works with a team of about 25 highly talented individuals to produce each issue. “Our publishing team at New River Design consists of a core group of six. Riverwalk Trust

“Coming out late in life accomplished a couple of things for me. I knew, at the age of 40, there was no turning back, at least not for me.”

- Mark Corbett

accounts for another three in editorial, and we work with numerous contributing writers, designers and photographers.”

In addition to serving the business community, Corbett also contributes heavily to many area non-profit organizations including Broward House, the Pride Center at Equality Park, Miami City Ballet and South Florida Symphony Orchestra.

The Father Before becoming publisher of Go Riverwalk, Corbett was involved in a 13 year marriage and had three children. “Coming out late in life accomplished a couple of things for me. I knew, at the age of 40, there was no turning back, at least not for me.”

Ending his marriage was not exactly easy. “Conventional divorces can get ugly enough. My ex-wife decided to grant interviews with local and national media and appeared on a television show which featured wo­men claiming their lives were in ruins because of marrying gay men.”

Within three months following the divorce, Corbett was marching in New York’s Gay Pride Parade with the Gay Fathers Forum. “After all, I was a dad, and I would not allow anyone to take that away from me. Today, my children are my biggest fans and an amazing support group.”

Some people may not understand Corbett’s life, but he is quick to explain, “It’s not that difficult to understand – I have an ex-wife, three grown children, a grandson, an ex-husband, and two ex-boyfriends.”

grateful for all the difficult people, too. They have mostly become my greatest teachers and a few have earned the title of Buddha.”

Corbett has become somewhat of a role model for the younger gay community in Fort Lauderdale. “I’m openly gay and very active in our business community. That alone should offer some encouragement and incentive for others to follow.”

After struggling with his sexuality for years, Corbett is an advocate for equal rights. “Be yourself…responsibly and with passion. Coming out at any age can be productive and liberating to the spirit. Most will find the so called monsters created are within our minds.”

“Most people really don’t care if you’re gay or straight. We set up the roadblocks to our own successes. Let go and live your life to the fullest, each and every day.”

The Spiritualist “I could not be happier with my life. I wake every morning with extreme gratitude for all the wonderful people and the impermanent material objects that make my life so much easier.” He continues, “I’m even

The Lover Corbett describes his relationship with his former lover Carl, “We were together for a long time. We lived the “Ozzie & Harriet” life here in beautiful Fort Lauderdale before breaking up three years ago. Time moves

on, people change and gravitate to opposing belief systems, then people move on. It’s a way of life, the way of the Universe.”

When asked what he was searching for out of life, Corbett answered with two simple words, “Eternal happiness.”

Many gay men struggle to find love but Corbett is convinced, “Love is everywhere.”

And yes, he has found it. “Most people associate love with the quality of their bed partners and if they return text messages within a reasonable period of time. I find love in the most amazing places.” Corbett enjoys the more spiritual side of love.

“Sitting on top of a mountain under a starlit canopy, observing the journey of a falling raindrop, connecting with an opening flower or listening to a symphony of crickets… love is within us all, it’s up to us to connect. And connecting with that bed partner, is so much more intense when you start from within.”

To learn more about Mark Corbett and Go Riverwalk Magazine, please visit www. newriverdesigngroup.com.

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February 15, 2010 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

A. Sebastian Fortino

I watched the DVD of the Broadway prowith my newfound theatrical enthusiasm.

I said while I’d only done drag at par- duction starring Cynthia Nixon religiously. ties, my enunciation was perfect. “I took Then, I was cast. No, not as the vindictive Sylvia Fowler but as voice and speech Little Mary, the tentherapy classes beyear-old daughter of cause I was born deaf the play’s main charin one ear,” I added.

I had to be Sylvia acter, Mary Haines.

‘Catching My Breath’ is a personal reflections column about gay life. This week’s column was My imitations of BetFowler, the fastI was completely written by A. Sebastian Fortino. If you want to ‘catch our breath,’ submit your stories to editor@ te Davis were deadwrong about the on. “I’m so happy southfloridagaynews.com’ talking, malicious, production. It was you’re happy,” I quoted “All About Eve.” I best-dressed woman not a mere assemblage of boys who was virtually unemin New York. wanted to wear ployed. “I have lots dresses. Everyone in of free time.” the cast was a proHow would he cast me? I had to be Sylvia Fowler, the fast- fessional, or seasoned drag performer.

I was cast to fall flat on my face. To furtalking, malicious, best-dressed woman in ast spring my twenties were end- one’s stage. I would bring my thespian en- New York. Surely I was Sylvia. After all, I ther taint matters, the assistant director was once lived in Manhattan. Furthermore, I someone I once dated. I would fail miserergy to another production. ing. Was life over?

Then, a miracle. My friend Mark was was the best-dressed homosexual in Phila- ably before someone who’d seen me naked.

As it rained consistently from I took a deep breath and read Little Mary April through mid-June, I felt even the directing an all male version of “The Wom- delphia. Well, in my mind, at least.

Why, I had acted before. Well, I had at during our initial read. The looks from the heavens mourned this strange passage. I en.” Rather than email directly, I stalked cast were strange. Then, transformed in a needed something to get my mind off of it. him. Then, at an event, I nearly raped him least rehearsed!

1950’s party dress, Goldilocks wig and the I joined a gym, and went every day for sweetest expression rendered in make-up, two hours. I quit smoking, and gave up I took to the stage. carbohydrates. I went from my preppie Little Mary is regarded by most fans of haircut to a quiff. My stylist said it made the show as annoying. However, as she me “look just like a young Morrisey.” is a chief nemesis to Crystal, her father’s When I refused a glass of wine at my mistress and eventual second wife, some friend Heather’s—because of the caloof her lines are quite memorable. ries—she had enough. The gym, and the I played her as a lesbian, sexually atpatch amused her, but refusing wine? “Get tracted to her mother. a hobby,” she said, “and a grip.”

Through the first act I noticed unsetMost freelance writers tend to have tling looks aimed at me by the director, plenty of time on their hands. While going his assistant whom I dated, and the drag to the gym certainly employed my time, queens. With each scene and each word there still were many hours of ennui. Most I put everything I had into the part. The people told me to get a job, not a hobby. looks were disheartening. I was failing, a There was one thing I had not done in laughing stock, not worthy of the yards of my twenty-nine years that seemed oddly vintage fabric that made me a Little Mary. lacking. I had never acted. I, about whom During intermission I scurried to the friends have said, “It must take so much enbathroom. The criticism of the real drag ergy to be you Sebastian. Do you ever stop queens would be too much to bear. Finto breathe?”—had never been a thespian. gers, tipped in fake nails were pointing, Then, like many of my adventures bestabbing at me. gin, the phone rang. A friend of mine I didn’t make it to the little girl’s room. wanted to cast me in his production of Gloved hands were placed on my shoulTerrence McNally’s, “The Ritz” as Claude, ders. “You little liar,” said my “mother.” a main character.

“Mark said you’ve never done this. Even We rehearsed three nights a week. Our today he was nervous putting you against dedication: dogged. Our outlooks: zealus. You’ve done this before, am I right?” ously hopeful. Our director: delusional, an Not knowing what to say I merely curtalcoholic, who never booked a venue. We seyed. “Thank you, mother darling,” I said. were a cast without a theater.

Norma Shearer, Joan Crawford and Rosalind Russell Thirty, I decided with this triumph, was As I had invested so much time rehearsin a publicity shot for the 1939 movie version of The Women. hardly a final curtain. ing “The Ritz,” I vowed to appear on some-

Catching My Breath

30 Is a Drag

L

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February 15, 2010 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

2010 Boca Raton Concours d’Elegance With Performamce by Comedian Dennis Miller

Florida’s most premier eateries. In addition to fine foods, guests can also indulge in an array of premium wines, paired suhe fourth annual 2010 Boca premely to complement the faire before them. Once the palate and Raton Concours appetite of guests are fully d’ El­egance will satisfied, they can peruse a be held from Februfine selection of exotic auary 19 through 21, at tomobiles and private jets. the Boca Raton Resort Guests will also enjoy live & Club in Boca Raton, entertainment.

Florida. A series of exSaturday, February 20th travagant and luxurious features the black-tie opevents will span over tional gala dinner with a live three days. This is all performance by five-time to benefit the Boys & Emmy award-winner DenGirls Clubs of Broward Dennis Miller nis Miller. In previous years, County, including a stellar performance by comedian and famed comedian Jay Leno, Bill Cosby and Howie Mandel graced the stage at the gala. This late-night television host Dennis Miller.

The Concours d’ Elegance festivi- year’s performance by star Dennis Miller ties begin Friday, February 19 with the is sure to be just as phenomenal, deliverduPont Registry Live! Hangar Party at ing an amazing performance for a night to Boca Raton Airport Hangar, from 6:00- remember.

The black-tie optional gala will begin at 8:00pm. This year’s Concours will bring back the exciting Friday Night Live! 5:30pm with a cocktail hour and extensive event, which will offer guests a chance silent auction. Guests will be welcomed to to experience select tastings from South take their seats in the Gala ball room at

By Joey Amato

T

AutoNation CEO, Mike Jackson. Jackson has shown dedication to the automobile world and is known for his decades of commitment in the Mike Jackson automotive business arena as well as his media-appointed role as national spokesperson for all of the auto dealers nationwide.

The Concours d’ Elegance Automobile and Motorcycle Exhibition begins Sunday, February 21st at 10:00am and is open to the public with tickets at $50 per person.

Car and motorcycle fanatics from around the world will get to experience an automotive showcase featuring cars and motorcycles from a wide range of time periods. Jam packed with three days of 7:00pm and enjoy a fine dinner and one fabulous events, this year’s Concours d’ Elof the most outrageous live auctions, Den- egance promises to be unforgettable. nis Miller takes the stage for a live performance at 9:00pm. Auction items include the all new 2011 Audi R8 V10 Spyder Visit the Boca Raton Concours Cabriolet Convertible, Ferrari 458 Italia, d’ Elegance website at www.

Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG, and Hyundai bocaratonconcours.com or call Equus. All proceeds will benefit the Boys 954-537-1010 for more informa& Girls Clubs of Broward County. tion or to purchase tickets.

In addition, the Automotive Lifetime Achievement Award will be presented to one of America’s automotive legends,

32

February 15, 2010 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

A Cutting-Edge

Barber

Photos courtesy of Florida Grand Opera

Gay Couple Applies 21st Century Technology to 18th Century Story

Completing Barbe’s thought—the two are partners both on stage and off—Doucet adds, “Ten (opera) companies have closed in the U.S. this year and some were major, but Robert (Heuer) decided to think outside the box.”

And think outside the box, the couple did. The Barber of Seville is one of the most popular operas, repeated regularly because of the familiar music and the engaging tale of young love, buffoon’s schemes and mistaken identities as Figaro, the town’s barber and jack-of-all-trades attempts to save the marriage of Rosina and Count Almaviva, while foiling the plots of Dr. Bartolo.

Doucet and Barbe turned to technology, collaborating with a local design studio to create elaborate interactive computer generated animations to serve as the setting for the story.

The pair charged Miami’s Lava Studios to create the animations, which are historically true to the 18th century setting of the opera, but retain the creative license that has made the pair so popular.

Doucet is emphatic. “We are in the 21st century and it made sense to employ the technology of the day to stretch the budget, but technology should not be a toy,

Soprano Sarah Coburn sings the role of Rosina in Florida Grand Opera’s production of Rossini’s The Barber of Seville, opening this weekend at Miami’s Arsht Center.

By J.W. Arnold Nightlife Editor

W

ith the country mired in the worst economic downturn since the Great Depression, arts organizations have been hit particularly hard as donations dried up and endowments plunged in the stock market.

The Florida Grand Opera (FGO) turned to Renaud Doucet and Andre Barbe for an innovative new approach to opera that wouldn’t bust the budget and those efforts will be unveiled this weekend at the Arsht Center as FGO presents Giaccomo Rossini’s masterpiece, The Barber of Seville.

The pair—Doucet André Barbe, left, and Renaud Doucet, partners both professionally is a French director and personally are part of the team bringing Rossini’s opera, The Barber of Seville, to life at Florida Grand Opera. and Barbe a Canadian designer—have been in demand around the globe for nearly but rather serve the piece.”

Doucet and Barbe conceived black two decades for their fresh and innovative interpretations of the opera repertoire. Doucet and white animations in the style of the and Barbe were tapped by FGO General “silhouette” that would be contrasted by Manager and CEO Robert Heuer to direct bright, colorful costumes on the cast.

“I created my own images in the spirit of all four of the company’s productions.

“These are difficult times because of the the 18th century,” Barbe says. “Everything financial crisis.” Barbe explains. “We had will blend together. We often work with done a few shows in the past (for FGO) projection in opera, but never to the level and the offer came. It has been quite a we are doing it here. The world of opera is challenge. We’re doing four operas, but we used to traditional productions and this is definitely something new.” have the budget to do two.”

“And we think the audience will be engaged with the results, gaining a new perspective on such a historic art form,” Doucet adds.

Already several other opera companies around the world are interested in the cutting-edge production of the Rossini opera, enhancing FGO’s standing in the opera world.

While technology will be center stage, the duo reminds that the singers are still the stars of the show and FGO has again assembled a world class cast for this production.

Bruno Pratico, as Dr. Bartolo, is considered one of the best singers in the world of that role. And soprano Sarah Coburn will bring unusual color to a role that is often sung by mezzo sopranos.

As for their relationship off the stage, the couple of 20 years says it makes them stronger on stage.

“It is the easiest thing and the most difficult thing because we know each other so well,” Doucet says. “We know what the other is able to do, so we don’t accept any compromise. We expect the best, so this is really the challenge, I would say. But the good thing is that we don’t mix our professional life with our personal life.”

Barbe adds, “Fortunately, we do like living and working together. That doesn’t mean it’s always easy. It’s like this big experience that is following us all the time. We are extremely demanding of each other as artists. During the job we can make the difference between the work and the personal life. We’re always preparing some production.”

And, when The Barber of Seville closes its South Florida performances, the couple will jet to Europe—they spend up to eight months a year on the road—to begin work on another production before returning for FGO’s closing production of Bizet’s Carmen.

“Wherever we are, it’s home” says Barbe.

“If you really want to work in opera, there is no way to survive in only one city—that’s the great thing about doing this together.”

The Barber of Seville Florida Grand Opera Feb. 20 – 28 at the Arsht Center for the Performing Arts, Miami March 4 and 6 at the Broward Center for the Performing Arts, Fort Lauderdale For tickets and more information, visit www.fgo.org.

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February 15, 2010 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

Nightlife

Fun in the Sun as Northeast Digs Out Monday, Feb. 15 If Valentine’s Day didn’t yield any romance, here’s a way to get your balls off—literally. Atomic Boom in The Shoppes of Wilton Manors kicks off its Monday Porn Bingo games tonight. Desiree DuBois hosts in the video lounge.The outrageous fun begins at 8 p.m. and you could be the big winner after all!

Tuesday, Feb. 16 It’s Fat Tuesday and Georgie’s Alibi celebrates Mardi Gras with mouth watering Cajun creations from the kitchen and drink specials all day long. No telling what you have to do to get some beads, but a night out at the Alibi is always lots of fun.The Alibi is located in the Shoppes of Wilton Manors.

Winter Party

By J.W. Arnold Anticipation Mounting for Winter Party Festival s our neighbors to the north continue to dig out from the series of blizzards not so affectionately known as “snowpocalypse” and “snowmageddon,” excitement is growing in Miami for the week-long party that doesn’t involve snow and ice: Winter Party Festival.

The festival, which was conceived as a one-time event in 1994, has grown into one of the most popular fundraising events of the year, benefitting the National Gay and Lesbian Task Force and dozens of local LGBT charities and organizations. Crowds in excess of 10,000 are expected again for 2010 festival, especially as northerners seek refuge from the long, cold winter.

Tickets and passes are on sale for many of the parties, but organizers emphasize that the festival includes a wide variety of events beginning Wednesday, March 3 and continuing through March 8, including family, arts and spiritual programs.

The cown jewel, of course, is Sunday’s Beach Party on 12th

A

Wednesday, Feb. 17

Street off Ocean Drive.

For a complete schedule and to purchase tickets, go to www. winterpartyfestival.org.

Can’t wait until the Winter Party to get your groove on?

Here are few picks for the upcoming week:

Wednesdays are College Night at Miami Beach hotspot Mova, 1625 Michigan Ave. Formerly known as Halo Lounge, Mova is one of the coolest destinations in town, just off Lincoln Road.

DJ George Figares is in the booth spinning and bartenders will be pouring $3 Finlandia vodka all night long.

Mova

Mask for Mardi Gras

Thursday, Feb. 18

Saturday, Feb. 20

Happy Hour has gone to the dogs. Mutts & Martinis, Fort Lauderdale’s dog friendly happy hour group, hosts a “Yappy Hour” fundraiser from 6 to 9 p.m. at America’s Barkyard—er, America’s Backyard, 200 W. Broward Blvd in Ft. Lauderdale. The party, which benefits Best Friends Animal Rescue, will feature cocktails, appetizers, music and dog-friendly activities, like paw-dicures, doggie massages. A donation of $20 includes two drinks. RSVP to callie@muttsnmartinis.org.

Saturdays are always bigger at Score and this weekend is no exception. DJ/Producer Paulo takes to the booth at the Lincoln Road club in Miami Beach. Michael Stanley is your host for the evening. Score is located at 727 Lincoln Road.

Miami Beach

Friday, Feb. 19 The stars will be out tonight at “An Evening with the Stars,” a fundraiser for The Poverello Center, which provides food and services to people living with HIV/AIDS. Nikki Adams, Dame Edna, Nicolette and Cashetta will be among the local performers saluting Poverello founder Father Bill on his birthday at the Italian American Civic League, 2310 NE 7th Ave. in Wilton Manors. The evening gets under way at 7 p.m. with hors d’oeuvres and a cash bar. Show begins at 8 p.m. Tickets are $45 in advance at www.poverello.org.

Sunday, Feb. 21 Take to the streets this Sunday as The Shoppes of Wilton Manors celebrates Island City Fest from 12 noon to 3 p.m. Enjoy live music, artists and vendors, food, and store discounts from the businesses in South Florida’s “gay strip mall.” Afterwards, head over to one of the many popular tea dances: the Jackhammer tea dance at Atomic Boom in the shopping center or the Sea Monster and Voo Doo Lounge in downtown Fort Lauderdale.

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February 15, 2010 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

Celine Dion

Celine:Through the Eyes of the World

By Joey Amato

C

eline Dion has touched the lives and hearts of millions of people around the world through her music and philanthropy.

After spending a three-year residency at Caesars Palace in Las Vegas performing “A New Day”, Celine embarked on the highly successful “Taking Chances” tour.

Celine, the best-selling female artist of all time, toured the world and now, beginning February 17, she will let audiences follow her on that journey. For a limited engagement, fans will get a glimpse into the on-stage and behind-the-scenes magic of Celine’s “Taking Chances World Tour”.

This special motion picture event gives fans who attended the extremely popular tour—which placed Celine second only to Madonna in ticket sales in 2008—another

n Celine Dio

They’re so Excited Pointer Sisters to Play Broward Center

By J.W. Arnold

chance to experience the momentous event. This time from a vantage point unparalleled by any ticket.

Join Celine as she travels to five continents and 25 countries, putting on show-stopping performances of some of her biggest hits. However, this world tour is different as Celine is traveling with extended family. Intercutting concert performances with behind the scenes footage, audiences will get the chance to really know Celine, as well as those fans that she meets and performs for around the world.

Celine: Through the Eyes of the World opens in theaters for a limited engagement beginning February 17.

of our music education, as we found where we fit in.

ANITA: It’s free school. Well, church is not really free, but wouldn’t it be nice if you could pay for college by just passing around the bucket? We definitely paid the tuition.

SFGN: I imagine that working so closely with family can be an advantage and a challenge.

ANITA: I think we’re lucky that we’re family. If we weren’t, we wouldn’t exist.

We’ve tried to The Pointer Sisters work without people and it Sunday, Feb. 21, 7 p.m. was a horrible Broward Center for the Perexperience. forming Arts RUTH: You Au-Rene Theater aren’t kidding!

Tickets $25-$55 at www.broI also think that wardcenter.org as a family, our voices naturally blend. From the very beginning, we’ve been told our harmony was tight, along with the way we enunciate words and blend our styles. We were all connected at the hip vocally. Now, we’re singing with my granddaughter (Johnson), and Anita’s

your start singing in your father’s church.

What is it about churches that seem to cultivate performers?

RUTH: I think it’s the fact that you have a built-in audience. We got experience early in learning the different ranges of music. We sang in the choir and that was the beginning

Nightlife Editor

A

mong the A-list celebrities who flocked to South Florida for the Super Bowl festivities were legendary singers The Pointer Sisters. But while the public wasn’t allowed at their exclusive performance for NFL team owners, the singers who made “I’m So Excited” and “Jump (For My Love)” hits will be returning to the Broward Center on Sunday, Feb. 21 for a musical celebration of a career that spans four decades.

Anita and Ruth Pointer, along with Sadako Johnson, Ruth’s granddaughter who is currently touring with the group, sat down with South Florida Gay News to discuss their careers and the upcoming show in Fort Lauderdale: SFGN: Like so many singers, you got

Inspirational, moving, honest and surprisingly funny, Celine: Through the Eyes of the World captures Celine’s skillful balance between the demands of an elaborate and extensive year-long worldwide tour and her top priority—caring for and enjoying time with her family.

Having sold more than 200 million albums around the world, Celine Dion is one of the most recognized, widely respected and successful performers in pop music history. During her spectacular career, Celine has been honored with over 1000 awards. She is a 5 time Grammy Award winner, 2 time Academy Awards winner and 7 time American Music Award winner. Not to mention, she has earned 20 Juno Awards (Canada) and an astonishing 40 Felix Awards (Quebec).

In 2004, Celine received the Diamond award at the World Music Awards recognizing her status as the best-selling female artist of all time. In 2007 she was honored with the Legend Award at World Music Awards in recognition of her global success and outstanding contribution to the music industry.

The Pointer Sisters (from left, Sadako Johnson, Anita Pointer, and Ruth Pointer) will sing their hits at the Broward Center on Sunday, Feb. 21.

continued on page 41

February 15, 2010 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

no one quite like Joan Rivers, an Emmy Award-winning comedian, author, actress, playwright, talk show host, fashion commentator and winner of Donald Trump’s atercolors — Fort Lauderdale Celebrity Apprentice. The opening act is by Broadway singer James Naughton.

International Film Festival will February 17 at 8PM, Alexander W. Dreypresent the film Watercolors as part of foos, Jr. Concert Hall. Tickets start at $20.

ArtExplosion 10. Featuring Tye Olson and Kyle Clare as the romantic leads with www.kravis.org.

Karen Black and Greg Louganis in supporting roles, Watercolors is the story of ate Clinton — ArtsUnited a gifted, young artist, Danny (Olson) as is proud to present legendary he arrives at the opening of his first New comedian Kate Clinton, in her new York exhibition. His show “The Lady erotic paintings trigger HaHa Tour,” as the memories of his first final performance of love, Carter (Clare) ArtExplosion LGBT a troubled athlete Arts Festival. See whose depression Kate perform her and self-denial led world-famous burto suicide. Through a lesque Bubble Wrap series of flashbacks we Dance. All material see Danny and Carter fully digitalized and struggle with their gorgeously styled mutual attraction. Febby the Haus of Ha. ruary 18 at 7:00PM, One of the first out Cinema Paradiso. Tickgay comedians in the Gladys Knight ets start at $9. www.

US, Kate Clinton has FLIFF.com performed nationally since 1981. She has received numerous ladys Knight awards and honors — She has including a Lifetime been described in Achievement Award many ways during from the National her luminous 50-year Gay and Lesbian career: GrammyTask Force, and the winning recording star, Pioneer Award a member of the Rock from GLAAD Media and Roll Hall of Fame, Awards. February 20 nightclub and concert at 8:00PM, Broward hall headliner, film and Center for the Pertelevision star—but Joan Rivers forming Arts. Tickets to her millions of fans start $25. www.browardcenter.org.

Gladys Knight will always be the Empress of Soul. Her numerous hits include “Midnight Train to Georgia,” “Neither lamenco Festival — Rocio One of Us (Wants to be the First to Molina mesmerized festival audiSay Goodbye” and “Best Thing that Ever ences two years ago with her blazing Happened to Me.” February 16 at 8PM, performance in “Mujeres”. Winner of Alexander W. Dreyfoos, Jr. Concert Hall. the Best Dancer Award at the Flamenco Tickets start at $20. www.kravis.org.

Bienal of Seville, Molina returns with her company for the Miami premiere of her new show Oro Viejo (Ancient Gold), an oan Rivers — “Can we talk?”

From network television to the silver intense evening of Flamenco that wowed audiences throughout Spain. February 17 screen, from Chicago’s Second City to at 8PM, Knight Concert Hall. Tickets start the lights of Broadway, from Caesars at $35. www.arshtcenter.org.

Palace to the Kravis Center, there is

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February 15, 2010 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

Heard it on...

Streisand Says “No” To $100 Million Vegas Offer Megastar singer Barbra Streisand is reportedly turning her prominent GLBT-friendly nose up at a $100 million offer to move to Sin City.

Babs

By the Nite Owl 55 Million Condoms for Carnival Brazilian health officials have kicked off an AIDS awareness campaign and will hand out 55 million condoms during the annual Carnival festival that begins next week.

No word yet whether Connie Francis will be appearing at the annual South American festival with Matthew Rush.

A new television ad features a talking

New protection for Rio’s Carnival

condom that loudly reminds young people to take him along when they go out to party.

We will try to get it for you on our daily website, www.southfloridagaynews.com Health Minister Jose Temporao said Saturday that this year’s campaign is focusing on educating young women and young gay men to use protection.

The slogan is: ``The condom. For love, passion or just sex. Always use it.’’

Last year the government distributed nearly 500 million free condoms throughout Brazil, or an average 2.6 condoms for every citizen.

PopEater.com and JAM! Music both reported last week the singer said ‘oy vey, no way’ to The Nine Figure Offer to sign a contract with a Las Vegas promoter.

Instead, the 67-year-old vocalist – who has held onto mega-success through five decades—has opted for a touring schedule this summer, which would make this La Streisand’s Farewell Tour, Part LVI. Said a source to PopEater.com: “After Celine Dion left Las Vegas, no one has been able to replace her. Bette Midler failed; Cher is trying; only Barbra is guaranteed to succeed.”

But walking away from $100 million? The source told PopEater.com that, “money has never been a deciding factor in her career.”

Fabscout Lands New Manager Adult Male Talent Management giant, FabScout Entertainment has announced the addition of Rocco Giovanni to its corporate headquarters in Florida. In his new role with the Company, Rocco will oversee the day-to-day logistics of model bookings, contracts, travel, and live event bookings.

Rocco will re-locate to Florida his cur-

rent home in Ohio where he has worked for the past several years as a Group Fitness Instructor and an Administrative Assistant. In the adult and mainstream entertainment world, Rocco has enjoyed success as a model and entertainer. As such, he will continue working as a model and entertainer alongside his new job duties.

“Rocco is a very level-headed and intelligent guy who will add tremendous value to our team at FabScout. I have been looking for the right fit talent to handle the in and outs of this business, and Rocco fits the bill perfectly.

Our entire team is excited to have him as part of our family” stated Howard Andrew, President.

Perez Hilton

John Mayer Tongues Perez HIlton FabScout’s new ‘logistics engineer’ Rocco Giovanni

America’s not-so-favorite gay icon, Perez Hilton, seems to be stirring Hollywood up again lately.

First, there was the incident with Black Eyed Peas manager Liborio Molina, who reportedly punched Hilton in a Toronto nightclub last year after Hilton called the bands’ leader will.i.am, a faggot.

The disgruntled Hilton filed a civil suit against Molina, which was recently dismissed after attorneys for both parties announced they had reached a settlement.

Molina apologized for punching Hilton as part of an agreement to drop the assault charges brought against him.

In other news, John Mayer wanted to “outgay” Hilton. As Hilton was flamboyantly mingling with partygoers, Mayer grabbed him and slipped his tongue down Hilton’s throat.

Mayer states, “The only man I’ve kissed is Perez Hilton... I was dating Jessica [Simpson] at the time, and I remember seeing Perez Hilton flitting about this club and acting as though he had just invented homosexuality.”

The Grammy Award-Winning singer-songwriter adds, “All of a sudden I thought, I can ‘outgay’ this guy. I grabbed him and gave him the dirtiest, tongue-iest kiss I have ever put on anybody ... almost as if I hated fags.

I don’t think my mouth was even touching when I was tongue kissing him, that’s how disgusting this kiss was.”

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February 15, 2010 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

Federal Court Hears Indecency Case Against Cher & Nicole Richie

That FCC ruling came after two live televised broadcasts of the Billboard Music Awards which aired on the network.

During the 2002 broadcast of the A federal appeals court in New York is program, singer hearing arguments Cher said of over the whether her critics the Federal Com“Fuck ‘em.” The munications Comfollowing year, mission (FCC) on that same violated the First show, Nicole Amendment when Richie – reit ruled that the inforcing her excited utterplace in pop ances of Cher culture as a (“fuck”) and less-than-deepNicole Richie thinker – asked (“shit”) during “Have you ever televised awards tried to get shows were cow shit out of indecent. a Prada purse?

On January 13, It’s not so fuckthe three-judge Cher ing simple.” panel of the 2nd (Also in 2003, but not related to this case, U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals heard arguU2 front man Bono said on the Golden ments by attorneys from the FCC and Globes awards that his receiving an honor FOX Television, which is challenging a was “fucking brilliant.”)

2006 ruling by commissioners.

The 2006 commission ruling called both incidents legally indecent, although the commissioners imposed no fines or sanctions.

Fox challenged the FCC ruling. The federal appeals court initially found the FCC’s reasoning inadequate, but the U.S. Supreme Court reversed the decision last year in a 5-to-4 ruling. The high court DID, however, leave open the door to a constitutional challenge on First Amendment grounds.

During the hearing, the three judge federal panel endured a debate peppered with obscene four letter words which were offered as a means of making legal points. The very words they may fine people for using on the air, they were using freely in court. Huh? In 2004, the FCC threw out its longstanding policy of granting immunity in instances of so-called “fleeting expletives.” Now FOX is challenging the commission on free speech grounds.

South Florida’s HOTTEST new Contemporary, Professionally Trained, Gorgeous Dance Group

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February 15, 2010 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

Jeffrey A. Kasky, Esq.

The Legislature Can’t Write, or Why the Ban on Gays Adopting Is Unconstitutional

F

lorida is the only state in the country with an express ban on “homosexuals” adopting children.

Florida Statute §63.042(3) states that, “No person eligible to adopt under this statute may adopt if that person is a homosexual.”

The ban is controversial, to say the least.

Homosexuals feel they are being discriminated against by government intrusion upon what would otherwise be their right to adopt a child. Some of those who oppose the ban point to the children’s rights to be adopted by the best possible family. They suggest that this ban not only infringes upon the rights of the homosexuals, but is unfair to children who could be raised by loving families regardless of sexual orientation.

To simplify, the attack on the constitutionality of the law is based on ‘equal protection.’ Those seeking to have this law declared unconstitutional claim that homo-

sexuals are a class of citizens who deserve ‘equal’ protection under the law, and that there is no rational basis for this ban. Opponents, of course, routinely argue that homosexuals are seeking ‘special’ rights.

I want to suggest in this article that you don’t have to get to the merits of the ban to prove how it is unconstitutional. Here’s why: The very first question you ask yourself when determining whether a statute is constitutional is evaluating whether that statute is vague. I am telling you, regardless of whether you believe the ban is good or bad, as the legislature has written it, the law is ‘vague’. How do we know this?

The U.S. Supreme Court has determined that a statute is vague if “men of common intelligence must necessarily guess at its meaning.” If a law does not make clear sense to a person of average intelligence, it is vague. You can’t be expected to live by a

Do you always need an attorney to represent you when you are injured in an automobile or other accident?

Even though I have over 30 years experience in representing people who have been injured dure to the negligence of others, the answer is NO. However, in order to make the decision on whether or not you need the services of an attorney, you need to be properly informed of your legal rights. For information which will allow you to make that informed decision, please contact me for a free consultation.

law that you don’t understand.

I’m a reasonably intelligent guy. I have been to college and law school. As a lawyer, I’m better trained than the average citizen in reading and interpreting statutes and legalese. Despite all this, I don’t know what they mean when they refer to “a homosexual.”

A visit to www.dictionary.com comes back with the following definitions for the noun “homosexual:” First, a homosexual person; second, a gay man or a lesbian, and third, “a homosexual individual and especially a male.”

By placing the word “a” before the word “homosexual,” the legislature was clearly using the word “homosexual” as a noun.

There is a problem with that.

As noted at Dictionary.com, many people now avoid using ‘homosexual’ because of the emphasis this term places on sexuality. Indeed, the words gay and lesbian, which stress cultural and social matters over sex, are frequently better choices.

Dictionary.com goes as far as to say: ‘Homosexual is most objectionable when used as a noun.’

In addition to the technical problems with the term, there are problems from a practical perspective.

Exactly who or what is “a homosexual”?

What if a guy is married to a woman but prefers sex with men over sex with his female spouse?

What if he prefers sex with his female spouse but has occasional sexual encounters with a single man or various men? Does this make him a homosexual, disqualifying him from adopting? Or is he just a straight guy who fools around?

What about the woman who is married to a man, has kids, is sexually monogamous, but had a same-sex relationship in college? continued on page 39

The practice of law is no practice.

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February 15, 2010 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

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BRAD KANE REALTOR® STEVE SHUMAN REALTOR®

Jeffrey A. Kasky

Brian McNaught

continued from previous page

continued from page 19

What if she and her husband occasionally engage in threesomes at a local swingers club?

What if a guy is solely attracted to other guys, but is 100% celibate? What if he does not act upon his homosexuality? Is he a “homosexual”?

There are a thousand variations on the above-mentioned scenarios.

You may be thinking that the players in these scenarios are not homosexual but bisexual. If the statute in question is meant to ban “homosexuals” from adopting, should it also apply to “bisexuals?”

If so, then what exactly is a “bisexual,” and why isn’t that specifically listed as a prohibition in the statute? Since it is not, how can the state ban a ‘bisexual’ from adopting?

As part of every adoption, adoptive families must sign a document called the Florida Adoptive Home Application. Item ‘G’ on page four of this five-page document requires the family to truthfully state, under penalty of criminal prosecution, whether they are homosexual or bisexual.

Why is it relevant if they are “bisexual”?

Even if that term could be clearly and easily defined, where in the law does it say that it’s relevant? It does not. Thus, the statute confuses multiple issues, lacks clarity, and creates what we lawyers call ‘vagueness.’

In summary, forgetting the right or wrong of the ban, you can effectively argue that the law is unconstitutional as written because it is vague and imprecise.

Attacks on this law based upon equal protection or similar grounds cannot be effectively made until the group being targeted with discrimination can be clearly identified.

fits. Sexism is rampant, and it will take a long, long time for women to be as esteemed as men are, but progress requires patience and a sense of humor more than it does a clenched fist and a super-sensitivity to everything that comes out of a man’s mouth.

Women are often more victimized by other women, just as gay men are often more victimized by other gay men, and transgender people are more victimized by other transsexuals or cross-dressers. We generally don’t label discrimination among ourselves as an “ism” or a phobia because it’s politically incorrect to further victimize a minority person. But that doesn’t make it right, anymore than the police calling a crime hate motivated when it’s not.

When I say that something is homophobic, heterosexist, or that it constitutes a hate crime, I want to be taken seriously. But if I do so in the wake of others who use the terms as if they were engaged in by everyone other than us at all times, I won’t be taken seriously.

After crying “wolf” twice and making the townspeople angry, the shepherd boy spotted a real wolf that prowled among the sheep. No one took him seriously when he asked for help because they knew he was a liar. When they later found him crying and he complained that no one came to his aid, an elderly man took him under wing and said, “We’ll help you look for the lost sheep in the morning. Nobody believes a liar, even when he is telling the truth!”

Jeffrey A. Kasky, Esquire is a partner at Kasky Mediation Group located in Deerfield Beach.

Brian McNaught is a local author and educator on the issues facing GLBT people, who has, since 1974, been teaching gays to acknowledge, affirm, and integrate our sexual orientation into our family and faith.

O ver 25 Years of Service

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

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February 15, 2010 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

International News/Analysis

Uganda: Why We Shouldn’t Limit Our Outrage

By A. Sebastian Fortino

U

ganda is only one of two African countries where life in prison is punishment for homosexuality.

The recent media attention brought about by the October 2009 proposed Anti-Homosexuality Bill in Uganda has incited protest around the world. If passed, the bill would initiate the death sentence for repeat offenders and the HIV-positive.

However, of the 38 African countries where homosexuality is outlawed, four of them authorize the death penalty. Uganda would become one of 5 if the bill passes.

Some might argue that life in prison is on par with the death penalty. Yet many of the countries in which it is enforced are under the direction of unstable governments. A regime change might grant imprisoned homosexuals freedom and their rights. Yet, when regimes and times change things becoming “better” is not always a guarantee.

Although Uganda is not undergoing internal conflicts the proposed bill is a prime example of the future not always getting better for sexual minorities. Our own Proposition 8 is another example of things retrograding.

On the African continent there are 11 countries where homosexuality is tolerated.

Off the continent, Reunion does permit equilateral LGBT Rights. Yet this is not necessarily the vox populi as the island nation is an overseas territory of France.

The nearby Seychelles Islands and Mauritius for instance forbid homosexuality. Currently, however, there is some debate on the ban in Mauritius, via UN intercession.

South Africa, which allows gays full freedoms is the only country on the continent to do so. But perhaps this is owed to the liberal stance of the Anglican Communion and spiritual leader Archbishop Desmond Tutu.

“I have spoken against the injustice of apartheid, and racism, where people were penalized for something about which they could do nothing, their ethnicity. I therefore could not keep quiet, it was impossible, when people were hounded for something they did

Above: President and Mrs. Obama pose for a photo during a reception at the Metropolitan Museum in New York with Ugandan President H.E.Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, and Mrs. Museveni.

Bottom: Recent newspaper coverage of Ugandan government anti-gay policies.

not choose, their sexual orientation.”

A Bishop of Sudan, however, led a split from the Anglican Communion in reaction to what he regards as the denomination’s failure to condemn homosexuality. Sudan is a predominantly Islamic country. Under Sharia law, homosexuals may be whipped for the first offense, by the third offense they are killed.

Demographically Uganda is interesting in its decision to advocate the death penalty for homosexuality. In terms of religion 84% identify as Christians, the Roman Catholic and Anglican Churches claim most of the congregants. Islam, which is largely consistent with the death penalty as a punishment for homosexuality, is not as major a part of the population.

Why then is Uganda going forward to strengthen their ban on homosexuality?

The Anti-Homosexuality Bill, announced in October 2009, does not seem to fit in a primarily Christian country. Homosexuality may not be desirable by Christians but execution and life imprisonment is certainly not a standard reaction.

When Christian leaders – even conservative Rick Warren of the Saddleback Church

—are speaking out against Uganda’s proposed bill, clearly intercession must prevent its ratification.

However, Uganda’s 14-year sentence for homosexual misconduct actually stems from its once being under British Colonial control. The sentence is the same one that sent Oscar Wilde to jail at the turn of the last century.

“In a lot of instances the legislation you see is derived from colonial legislation. Especially countries under the British sodomy laws,” Ryan Thoreson, of the International Gay & Lesbian Human Rights Commission said.

Francophone countries were governed under Napoleonic Code, which by 1791 had decriminalized sodomy. Countries where there is a lot of Evangelistic Christian presence, like Uganda, also wish to suppress LGBT rights.

It is interesting to look at the countries bordering Uganda in terms of religion. The Democratic Republic of Congo, Kenya, Rwanda, and Tanzania are all predominantly Christian. Sudan, however, has since 1983 operated under Islamic law. They are the only country bordering Uganda where execution is penalization for homosexuality.

The influence of other countries does not seem to be the modus operandi for the Anti-Homosexual Bill. Neither does AIDS, which due to openness about the disease has proved beneficial in keeping numbers of the infected down in Uganda. However, if the bill passes people testing positive will be executed to—ostensibly—prevent the spread of the disease.

“The UN HIV envoy has stated passing this bill into legislation would be really detrimental to the way HIV is treated in the country,” added Thoreson.

Oddly, Rwanda with no specific laws against homosexuality, almost took influence from Uganda. However their proposed version of the Anti-Homosexuality Bill did not gain favor in December 2009. Tharcisse Karugarama, Rwanda Minister of Justice, spoke words similar to Archbishop Tutu.

“The government I serve and speak for… cannot and will not in any way criminalize homosexuality; sexual orientation is a private matter and each individual has his or her own orientation - this is not a State matter at all,” said Karugarama.

The Equality Forum is the largest annual national and international GLBT civil rights forum in North America. They chose Africa as their focus this year.

“Each year our board selects a country or region to be highlighted at the annual Equality Forum. With the importance of Africa and GLBT rights and challenges from a progressive South Africa to a repressive Uganda, our board felt it was important to focus on Africa at Equality Forum 2010,” said Malcolm Lazin, Equality Forum’s Executive Director.

“We are our brother and sister’s keepers.

Particularly in countries that are regressive, it is important that we let those regimes know that the world is watching, concerned and committed to holding regimes accountable,” said Lazin.

While we can only hope the situation in Uganda is not placed into legislation the attention it has received from the world community is proof that gay rights are human rights and as such, should not be violated.

February 15, 2010 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

Pointer Sisters continued from page 34

daughter, (who is taking time off from touring during pregnancy).

SFGN: A question for Sadako. What’s it like to be touring with the Pointer Sisters and working with your grandmother and great aunt?

SADAKO: I feel so lucky. I’ve learned a lot with them. At first it was hard and a lot of pressure, but I got more comfortable. They’re my family and on stage (Ruth and Anita) are so cool. They’re not nervous and I felt that.

This is such an important opportunity in my own career.

SFGN: The industry has changed since you hit the scene, with reality shows like “American Idol” making singers into stars. How do you feel about these changes?

RUTH: It’s scary. Thank God, we didn’t have to do (“American Idol”)!

ANITA: We had to do other things, like playing clubs, back-up singing and stuff like that before we hit TV and those were variety shows. Everybody has a reality show now, it seems like.

SFGN: Would you ever consider doing a Pointer Sisters reality show?

ANITA: I don’t know…..I won’t say “no.”

RUTH: There could have been one, back in the day. Remember that whole Lionel Ritchie tour. Oh, Lord!

SFGN: How does it feel to hear covers of your songs by new performers?

RUTH: I think it’s great. It’s just a thrill to have someone want to do our music.

SFGN: Is there anything that you haven’t tried that you like to get to?

ANITA: See the Taj Mahal. No, actually, I’m very curious to hear what we would sound like with a (hip-hop) producer like Timbaland. Maybe a movie would be fun, too. (She laughs) We could do a remake of Car Wash!

SFGN: Good luck with your Super Bowl performance tonight. I know your fans are eagerly awaiting your return later this month.

ANITA: You know, we did the very first Super Bowl show. It was the first time they decided to do a big blowout and (the game) was here at the Orange Bowl. It was us, Burt Reynolds, O.J. Simpson, Dinah Shore, and K.C. and the Sunshine Band. I’ll never forget the fans chasing O.J. and he jumped in our car!

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February 15, 2010 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

Anti Gay Leader Hides Past continued from page 6

fornia because so many residents of Guam had been financially harmed by the bogus investment scheme it was thought a fair trial in that venue was impossible.

Goldberg and others also indicted at Matthews & Wright had knowingly conspired together to enter into a fraudulent scheme to sell fake bond issues but take commissions on them anyway. They arranged to bribe officials, deceive investors, and issue bogus checks to non existent parties.

In exchange for underwriting $300 million in bogus deals, Goldberg and his investment firm, Matthews & Wright, received a fee of $10.5 million. They created the impression these bonds would be used to help construct desperately needed single family housing in Guam and elsewhere.

Separately, Goldberg also pleaded guilty in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Illinois to one count of conspiracy to defraud the United States in another falsified bond-writing scheme. In that matter, Goldberg participated in a conspiracy to ensure that the bonds were deemed prematurely to take advantage of a favorable tax law relating to transactions.

The 900 page presentence report prepared by prosecutors prior to his sentencing was scathing. It indicated that Goldberg’s conduct was “knowingly and willfully dishonest and fraudulent.”

K. William O’Connor described Goldberg as having engineered “a conspiratorial fraud of spectacular scope,” which purposefully duped “unsophisticated Pacific Islanders.” One witness against Goldberg said he treated the citizens of Guam as if “they were cannibals.”

O’Connor said that Goldberg’s deceitfulness crippled Guam’s economy, crushed investors, undermined public confidence in the bond industry, and cost the U.S. Treasury millions in lost taxes.

U.S. District Judge Jesse W. Curtis, Jr. then sentenced ‘Arthur Abba Goldberg’ to 18 months in prison, allowing both the Illinois and California sentences to run together. He imposed fines and restitution totaling $400,000, an amount later reduced by an appellate court.

In a separate civil proceeding, the Disciplinary Review Board of the New Jersey State Bar Association recommended taking away his law license. They found “Goldberg’s criminal convictions clearly and convincing-

homosexuality is normal, not aberrational.

NARTH advocates the doctrine that homosexuality is a ‘developmental disorder’ and a ‘treatable condition.’

The ‘Jewish State’ is a central New Jersey newsweekly that Goldberg gave an interview to in 2007. He identified himself as a former deputy attorney general and Connecticut law professor, telling the reporter that “gays have been led astray in terms of your authenticity to yourself.” Meanwhile, he failed to disclose his criminal past.

“People are not born gay; there’s no such thing as a gay gene,” he added, complimenting that remark with the statement all gays “can rethe mount sinai congregation in jersey. do they know their adapt” from “their genpresident was convicted of a felony 21 years ago? der deficiency.” He then New Jersey’s highest court even noted that said homosexual children should be treated “We are aware of respondent’s active involve- the same way as “if a child was addicted to ment in community service and his efforts drugs or alcohol.”

Goldberg is presently living conspicuously to resettle numerous immigrants from the former Soviet Union and Eastern Europe.” as the President of Congregation Mount SiBut, they concluded, “Goldberg’s conscious nai in Jersey City. The temple offers itself out participation in the illegal activities leading as a “welcoming environment for all people to his criminal convictions outweighs these to express, deepen and rediscover their Jewish heritage.” mitigating factors.”

Last year, as a guest in the audience at the In his capacity as the Director of JONAH, Goldberg formed and serves as a director of end of a Montel Williams show discussing a tax exempt 501(c)(3) charitable corpora- ex-gays, he shouted from the audience at the tion, whose website promises that it is “offer- host, interrupting the show, to say gays needing hope, compassion, direction and vitally ed help. You can see it on You Tube.

“I’ve always been one to try to help the unneeded information to gay strugglers, their families, friends, and surrounding commu- derdog,” he said.

But that is not what Judge Curtis concluded at nity.” He formed the group using the name Arthur Goldberg, sans Abba, one month after Goldberg’s sentencing on September 26, 1989.

“I find,” the court stated, “that, Arthur getting his federal supervision of five years’ Abba Goldberg, you have openly conspired probation concluded.

In a 2001 interview not long after he be- against the United States by knowingly and gan his religious crusade, Goldberg told the recklessly engaging indifferently in a series of Herald News in Paterson, New Jersey, that dishonest acts of considerable magnitude.”

JONAH’s website brags that it teaches that homosexuality is the result of “psychological trauma.’ And that “six months to three years ‘homosexual strugglers can journey away of weekly therapy and prayer can cure it.” from homosexuality with psychological and He did not say anything about whether 18 spiritual help, peer support, and personal empowerment.’ months in a federal prison might also help.

In 2007, JONAH established a separate Today, on the NARTH website, despite his conviction and disbarment, Goldberg division, The Jonah Institute for Gender Afproudly holds himself out as a ‘doctor of firmation, to provide research and clinical jurisprudence,’ displaying the title of ‘J.D.’ strategies for “growth out of homosexuality.”

Maybe Arthur Abba Goldberg should adjacent to his listing.

NARTH is one of the country’s most vo- have started a peer group for “growth out of cal critics of the American Psychological As- felonies.” His days of failing to own up to sociation’s position paper concluding that his are over. ly demonstrated his participation in activities that reflected adversely on his honesty, trustworthiness, and fitness as a lawyer.”

The New Jersey Supreme Court then disbarred Goldberg on November 9, 1995, citing his criminal convictions and his “reckless indifference to a conspiracy of considerable magnitude.”

43

February 15, 2010 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

Sports

Gay Stock Car Announcer Gains National Exposure, Breaks Stereotypes

By Michael K. Lavers

T

roy Germain has literally spent most of his life around the track.

The Lancaster, N.H., native began to go to stock car races with his parents when he was five. A small track in nearby Groveton hired him and a local radio disk jockey in 1991 to announce their weekly races; but Germain took over after managers fired the DJ. The American Canadian Tour hired him to announce their races in 2001—the same year he came out to his now ex-wife.

“As I’ve come out and become more comfortable with who I am, I’ve become less afraid and more comfortable being myself around the officials,” Germain told EDGE in a recent interview.

Nearly two decades later, Germain’s life continues to revolve around cars and the sport he loves. He currently works at a car dealership in St. Johnsbury, Vt., but he spends almost every weekend from April through October at tracks across New England, New York and Ontario and Québec in Canada.

“In most cases, I feel like I’m just walking up to and chatting with a friend of mine to see what’s new, to see the latest developments in their lives, in their careers,” Germain said.

Germain has also begun to announce races on the national level. He announced the ACT’s inaugural race at the New Hampshire International Speedway last September in front of 40,000 people. Germain also announced a nationally broadcast NASCAR race at the Texas Motor Speedway in 2007.

“I’m looking to expand what I do into more national exposure,” he said.

Germain came out to the ACT in 2003.

He conceded it remains tough to be the only openly gay man on the circuit. He said there are others about whom he knows, but they

Troy Germain

remain closeted. Germain said an e-mail Darla Hartt, vice president and general manager of the ACT, gave him the strength to come out to his colleagues. It read be yourself; be who you are and don’t be afraid; just be.

Germain’s dates and even boyfriends have become fixtures at ACT races, banquets and other events. Hartt told EDGE from her Waterbury, Vt., office Germain’s experience on the tour is far different from that of a closeted gay man with whom she once worked.

She categorized her interactions with her former boss as an “egg shell kind of experience,” because he was afraid of how his colleagues would react to his sexual orientation if they found out about it.

“I’m really proud and happy for Troy to be comfortable with whom he is; a Red Sox fan, a gay man or a race car announcer,” she said.

Hartt added she has never heard of anyone on the tour reacting negatively to Germain.

“In the kind of work we do... we’re all very busy and focused on the task at hand,” she said.

Dave Moody, the host of Sirius Speedway who is also one of the Motor Racing Network’s senior broadcasters, echoed Hartt.

Germain succeeded him when he left the ACT in 2001. And Moody said Germain continues to garner the respect of the drivers and others with whom he works on the track.

“Troy is Troy,” Moody said. “Our business is performance driven. The only thing that matters is if you can or can’t do his job. Troy is really good at his job.”

Stereotypes continue to influence the way the public views stock car racing and motor sports in general. Moody said people continue to feel it is “kind of a red neck sport that evolved from moonshine runners...” and “an intolerant hillbilly sport.” He said Germain’s presence alone dispels them.

“The misconception is that it is kind of a Southern redneck, boot culture, conservative... culture, and it’s really not,” Moody said as he further discussed Germain’s presence on the tour.

“He’s kind of like the rest of us.”

Vermont state Sen. Phil Scott [R-Montpelier] is a multiple ACT race winner who races at the tour’s home track in Barre.

Hartt noted carpenters and others are among those who are commonly found on tour.

“We make weekend heroes out of ordinary people,” she said. “We got somebody from every walk of life. It’s like a religion almost; it’s like being a Red Sox fan. It’s just a good group of friends who travel from town to town on weekends and have a really good time.”

Brian Hoar, a six-time ACT champion, conceded to EDGE he did not know Germain is gay until a year ago. He stressed, however, his sexual orientation remains a non-issue.

“Troy is just one of the guys and a great human being,” Hoar said.

Germain himself seems comfortable with the lack of attention his sexual orientation receives while on the track. He concedes some gay men react curiously about his work with questions and comments that include “That’s butch” or “How can you be out in such a straight industry?” Germain simply laughs.

“I’m respect for who I am and what I do, without regard to my sexual orientation,” he said. “I’m just one of the guys.”

Michael K. Lavers has written for the Advocate, the Fire Island News, the Village Voice, WNYC and other media outlets. He blogs at Boy in Bushwick [www. boyinbushwick.blogspot.com] This piece is courtesy of EDGE publications, for whom he did the interview of Germain.

44

February 15, 2010 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

Gaming/Technology

Gay Sex Scene in Video Game Stirs Christian Furor

By Norm Kent

T

he gay sex scene debate about the acclaimed new video game Dragon Age: Origins continues to stir online controversy, months after its Christmas release.

The video game, developed by BioWare and published by Electronic Arts stirred a whirlwind of publicity during the holidays last December. Political and cultural bloggers, along with gaming sites and the New York Times, weighed in on the appropriateness of a “secret” scene in which a man and an elf have gay sex.

Yes, an elf. Be nice to him.

Players of the fantasy video game can only access the purportedly objectionable and arguably steamy footage by seducing the warrior elf, Zevran, with the correct combination of come-ons and innuendos.

In a clip posted online, the gamer-controlled human character opens with the old favorite “I want to discuss something personal”—one of four dialogue options available.

He then makes his intentions explicit with “Can you join me in my tent?” before pressing home the point, with the unequivocally flirty “I bet you’re good at a lot of things”.

The action then cuts to the two characters in a state of undress enjoying what is euphemistically referred to as a passionate embrace.

Our dear friends in the Christian right are not feeling very good about all this.

At WorldNet Daily, one headline ran: “Players Have Dirty ‘Gay’ Sex in Hit Game.”

The author, Chelsea Schilling, then derogatorily opined that Dragon Age “depicts two

men in various sex positions in a secret scene of homosexual seduction.”

Schilling then goes on to vividly describe the acts of the two male partners, elf and human, as “dirty” and “naked.”

Censuring the game, he points out that the characters are shown “nestling together and gazing into one another’s eyes.”

They might be upset, but at gaygamers. net, a popular gaming site for those who ride on Brokeback Mountain, one blogger wrote: “Gay geeks rejoice, all your gaming fantasies have come true.” Another posting referred to the game as “shining equality on gay love.”

As a general rule, homosexual characters and themes are scarce in the video game industry, which draws much of its income from macho, violent titles.

In this Dragons game, however, there’s choreography, tenderness, humor and even an element of sexual politics.

BioWare, the game studio in Edmonton, Alberta, that created Dragon Age: Origins, said the inclusion of the gay sex scene, as well as other romantic interludes, was not meant to incite arguments or bolster any social causes, but to provide players with an immersive gaming experience.

“This isn’t a product about controversy,” Mike Laidlaw, the game’s lead designer, told the New York Times last month.

Instead, Mr. Laidlaw said, the game “is designed to celebrate player choice and create a story that is reactive to the way you choose to play it.”

The key to creating a believable game experience, he said, “is telling a good story.”

He added, “Among the tools that we have as storytellers, I see romance as being one of the principal ones.” In this case, gay romance.

Zevran, to the chagrin of WorldNetDaily, the Christian website, admits, after taking his male partner for a private rendezvous in a tent, “I was raised to take my pleasures where they could be found.” Yes, indeed.

‘Dragon Age: Origins’ was released for PlayStation 3, Xbox 360 and PC.

45

February 15, 2010 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

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SFGN’S Classified SOAPBOX

Father of 4 (three dogs and one cat) seeks your help in finding housing/employment.

By George Dauphin SFGN Creative Director My friend is looking for any type of employment and/or housing situation in order to hold on to his pets.

Here’s the situation: about a year ago, my buddy lost his house. I was able to get him a “job” as a caregiver in Hollywood with a straight man who is disabled and has mental issues—caregiving, cooking and cleaning in exchange for housing. My friend lives there now with his 3 Old English Sheepdogs and a cat. It seemed a perfect solution at first, until summer came around and the disabled man refused to turn on the AC. This man likes the heat, which is dangerous for the dogs because they have a very heavy coat. During the course of the summer last year, they got very sick and almost died. At times they refused to eat for days.

We need to get them out of there before summer comes again. My friend has a little bit of money saved up for a deposit on an apartment or trailer. If he can find employment—even if it’s part-time— this would enable him to find housing.

About my buddy: he is a kind, thoughtful, caring man, who loves his pets more than his own life. He has a gift for taking care of the sick, making artisan pizza, and ravioli from scratch. He likes to cook, clean, and be a part of the gay community. He loves Wilma, but of course will consider other locations. He’s not asking for a hand-out.

He is a “straight-acting” Italian/Irish man who comes with his own Streisand CD—54 years old, 6ft 195lb.

He wasn’t always in this situation. Just a year ago, he owned a beautiful home in Fort Lauderdale. He just got caught in the downhill cycle of the real estate market while trying to settle down in South Florida after many years of taking care of his mom up North. A successful and responsible individual, he has always owned a house in his adult life.

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46

February 15, 2010 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

CLASSIFIEDS@HOTSPOTSMAGAZINE.COM

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-----------------------------------------------GEORGOUS TOWNHOUSE FOR RENT IN WILTON MANORS 2BD/2.5BA, 2 story townhouse, $1,450/ Mo. Tile floors, central air, W/D, DW, screened in portch, community pool, sits on fingertip canal. In heart and soul of Wilton Manors. Walk to restaurants, shops, nightlife. Can be furnished for $1,550/Mo. Approx 1,200 sqft. One small pet allowed. Call Anthony 215-715-0494 -----------------------------------------------VICTORIA PARK CONDO 2BR/1BA fully furnished condo for rent.

Central air & heat, pool, tile floors, D/W, balcony, parking space, secured building. No Pets. $950 per month plus electric, F/S. Call 954-565-2714.

-----------------------------------------------COLONIAL MANOR 1/1.5 Completely remodeled, walk to Galleria Mall, bike to beach. Steve Pizzuto 954873-2830 Castelli RE Services -----------------------------------------------NEAR THE BEACH 2BD/2BA $1,195/Mo. and 2BD/1BA $1,095/Mo., window treatments, tile, carpet, large private fenced back yard, laundry on premisis, F/S 954-914-9144 -----------------------------------------------1BD/1BA CLOSE TO WILTON DRIVE 550sq ft. apt., newly renovated with granite countertops, European style cabinets, built in W/D, private back yard/covered patio. $850/Mo. Call 954-533-1240 -----------------------------------------------POINSETTIA HEIGHTS Large 3/2 Duplex Apartment for Rent. Tile floors throughout. Eat in Kitchen, W/D, Guest Bedroom with Private Entrance. $1,100/Mo. + utilities. F/S. Call 954-565-2714.

-----------------------------------------------4 BLOCKS TO WILTON DRIVE AND 2 BLOCKS TO THE NEW GLCC 1BD/1BA, large, walk-in closet, bright, clean, quiet, safe, 1 yr. lease. Furnished or Unfurnished $750/Mo. Call 954-934-8360 -----------------------------------------------PALMAIRE AREA Incrediblle 2/2 Condo in Cypress Bend near Cypress Creek Rd & I-95 Updated with bamboo wood floors large state of the art granite kitchen, huge screened balcony with beautiful 5th floor views of water & sunrise, W/D. Minutes to I-5 and Turnpike. Beautiful complex with pool tennis courts, jogging trail & exercise room Secure and Quiet. Must see… $1,150.00 per month. Call 954-614-9285

-----------------------------------------------WESTSIDE WILTON MANORS 1BR/1BA located off 21st Court. Quite location walking distance to Wilton Drive.

Updated unit, Laundry on property. $795/Mo. 1st, Sec. Avail NOW Call Ron 954-415-8273 -----------------------------------------------1BD/1BA LOCATED IN HEART OF UPCOMING AREA NEXT TO WILTON MANORS Fully tiled, eat-in kitchen, use of washer/ dryer, ample parking, pets allowed, $650/ Mo. Call 954-557-8088 -----------------------------------------------LAKERIDGE COZY STUDIO/ROOM Private entrance w/ patio. Full bath & kitchen. Hardwood floors; Tropical, secluded pool & patio area. Elec, WiFi, cable, & water included. On-site laundry available. ONE person only, no smoking/ pets. 1 mile to Wilton drive & the beach. $600 a month. 954-636-9298 -----------------------------------------------SECRET GARDEN Large 1BD/1BA, tile floors, granite kitchen, on-site laundry, newer everything, 1st floor w/large patio, $825/Mo. F/S Lakeridge. Call 954-448-9811 -----------------------------------------------DROP-DEAD-GORGEOUS Supersized 1BD/1BA, All New!, open granite kit w/island, D/W, 15’x20’ Bdrm, central air, 1 yr. lease $915/Mo. F/S. Middle River Ter. Call 954-448-9811 -----------------------------------------------LAKERIDGE RENTAL 3BD/2BA house close to Wilton Manors, beach and shopping, tile floors throughout, fenced front and back yards, small pets considered, PRICE REDUCED $1,300/MO. + L/S. Call Randy for appt. 954-347-1016 -----------------------------------------------1414 NE 5TH TERRACE LARGE 2BD/1BA Open, peninsula kitchen w/ smooth-top stive, crisp white cabinets, D/W, tile floors, on-site laundry. C/A, private patio. $1,050/Mo. F/S. Call 954-448-9811 -----------------------------------------------WILTON MANORS WATERFRONT ON THE PARK Waterfront 2BD/2BA Corner Unit, Large Open living areas, W/D in unit, $1,200/ Mo. Waterfront 1BD/1BA, new kitchen, spacious apt. $875/Mo. Spacious STUDIO apartment, private entrance, tile floors, galley kitchen, full size refrigerator, updated bathroom, wall of closets $575/Mo. Call 954-224-8768

-----------------------------------------------1/1 APARTMENT MINUTES TO WILTON DRIVE $725/MO. Private 1/1, cent a/c, all tile, french door to large patio/fenced yard & laundry, cats & most dogs okay 954-849-4944 -----------------------------------------------NE FT. LAUDERDALE - WILTON MANOR AREA - AVAILABLE NOW Lovely, IMMACULATE, 1/1’s, private patios, newer kitchens, lg. BR, walk-n closet, tile floors, a/c, washer/dyer, cable ready, Quiet, all gay complex. Cat considered. $680-$700. By appt. 954-592-3772 -----------------------------------------------PALM ISLAND VILLAS Brand New Tri-Level 3/3.5 Townhouse, walk to “The Drive”, $1,850/Mo. Steve Pizzuto 954-873-2830 Castelli RE Services -----------------------------------------------727 NW 1ST AVE-OFF OF ANDREWS AVE. Completely Remodeled 2BR/1BA on beautiful street lined with new townhouses. Large totally fenced yard, very quet, private laudry on premises, parking.

Central AC $850/mo + 1/mo security. Pets OK. Gino 954-551-3621 -----------------------------------------------2 MIN TO WILTON DRIVE Small quiet lushly landscaped bldg, 1/1, 1st floor, all tile, big bedroom, w/i closet, updtd kitchen, freshly painted, laundry on premises, some pets considered, $725/ Mo. 954-849-4944 or 954-242-7566.

-----------------------------------------------LARGE EFFICIENCY & YARD MINUTES TO WILTON DRIVE - $650/MO. Efficiency w/high ceilings, kitchen sink, cabinets, refrig, large closet, all tile floors, electric & water included; no stove! 954-242-7566 or 954-849-4944.

Pets considered.

-----------------------------------------------GAY RIVERSIDE Cute, charming, clean, comfortable NEWLY RENOVATED 2/1 Apt. Tile/carpet, ceiling fans, central air. Beautifully landscaped fenced-in yard, laundry facility, pool, barbecue, gazebo, off-street parking. In gay/mixed complex. $900.00/mo.

Great deal. MUST SEE! 954-205-7872.

-----------------------------------------------$750 BEHIND GALLERIA ($50 OFF FIRST MONTH) 1BD/1BA, 800 sqft w/ pool, no pets please. Call 954-802-5059 or trmman@ comcast.net

-----------------------------------------------VICTORIA PARK TOWNHOUSE 2BD/2.5BA, Large Bedrooms. large Closets. newer fully equipped kitchen , newer appliances, WD, Courtyard, Pets OK, Hurricane Shutters, Fast Flexible Move In for Feb 1st. Owner/Agent $1,375/ Mo. 954-661-4481 -----------------------------------------------WALK TO WILTON DRIVE RESTAURANTS AND CLUBS 2BR/1BA - Central AC, freshly painted, renovated kitchen, built in micro, D/W, tile floor. Only $875/Mo. 30 lb pet limit.

Call David at 917-710-8852, 407-491-1353 -----------------------------------------------VILLAGE PARK AT OAKLAND On SALE! Only $750/mo for 2/1 second floor apt. Pool, tennis, exercise room, laundry. New carpet, paint, xtra clean.

Commercial Blvd East of 95 at NE 6 Ave. Adjacent Publix/Bally’s, 1 mile to beach.

954-552-5023. Blueboy1st@hotmail.com Southcore Realty.

-----------------------------------------------OAKLAND & FEDERAL -REMODELED Second Floor, corner 1/1. Brand new appliances, counter top, ceiling fans, light fixtures, flooring and more. Laundry, cat okay.

Small bldg, extra clean. By Coral Ridge Mall, close to beaches. $695/Mo. Owner/ Agent. 954-552-5023. zinger8@aol.com -----------------------------------------------1129 NE 5TH TERRACE 1BD/1BA Full kitchen, bathroom, Beautiful Yard completely fenced in. Move In Conditon.

Laundry on premisis. Of off 13th Street.

Pets OK. $700/mo. Gino 954-551-3621 -----------------------------------------------FT LAUDERDALE - MIDDLE RIVER AREA LOW MOVE IN /EASY TERMS* 1BD/1BA in 4 unit bldg. $700/Mo. or $175/ Wk*. W/D on premisis. 6 or 12 Mo. Lease.

954-527-9225 -----------------------------------------------VICTORIA PARK VERY LARGE 1 BEDROOM Large 1 bedroom, pool, updated, Walk to Gateway and Galleria. N/S. $1,000/Mo. Call 954-270-0304 -----------------------------------------------MIDDLE RIVER TERRACE TOWNHOUSES Large 2/1½ unit townhouse style. Tile, Central A/C, D/W, microwave, great location in quiet complex. $900/Mo. F/L/S 954-270-0304 -----------------------------------------------MIDDLE RIVER TERRACE DUPLEX Large 1 Bedroom Apt. AC, Tile, Fenced Yard, Washer/Dryer, Private Parking, Pet OK. Call 954-463-6791 -----------------------------------------------MIDDLE RIVER TERRACE Large 1BD/1BA in fourplex. Tile floors throughout, laundry facilities, parking, less than 1 mile to Wilton Drive. $750/Mo. Call 954-815-2550 -----------------------------------------------WALK TO ALIBI Large 2/1 for rent with central A/C, dishwasher, pool, 2 pvt car spaces. Corner unit w/ lots of windows $995/ month Call Ron 917-734-9118 -----------------------------------------------WILTON VILLAGE CONDO Large 2/1 Remodeled, Corner, Next to Pool. Heart of Wilton Manors, 26th Street & 8th Ave. New Kitchen, Bathroom, Tile Floors, Central A/C, 2 Parking Spaces.

F/L/S $890.00 Mo. (954)732-2438 -----------------------------------------------EAST OAKLAND PARK - WALK TO SCANDALS 2/2 corner unit, clean condo, w/pool, laudry room, cent. A/C, all tile, great location, ample paking, small pet ok. 2nd floor. $950/mo. 954-486-2621 -----------------------------------------------1BD/1BA IN FORT LAUDERDALE Conviently located near 95, 595 and Turnpike. Quiet gay complex with private deck and yard. Small pet OK. $750/Mo. Call James 305-213-3473

Professional Services LYONS SNYDER LAW GROUP Criminal Defense Attorneys 954-462-8035 www.LyonsSnyder.com

47

February 15, 2010 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com -----------------------------------------------LAW OFFICES OF GEORGE CASTRATARO Bankruptcy, Civil Litigation, Estate Planning/Wills, Foreclosure Defense & Negotiation, GLBT Issues, Small Business. 954-573-1444 www.LAWGC.com -----------------------------------------------MAYERSOHN LAW GROUP P.A. State/Federal Criminal Defense & White Collar Crime 954-765-1900, 866-765-1900 www.MayersohnLaw.com -----------------------------------------------DRUCKER LAW OFFICES Personal Injury, Auto Accidents, Wrongful Death, Slip/Trip & Falls, Defective Product Injuries, Workplace Injuries. 954-755-2120 www.FloridaLawTeam.com -----------------------------------------------LAW OFFICES OF CHRIS MANCINI, PA Criminal Defense, Civil Litigation Office: 954-522-2744 Cell: 305-219-6919 www.ChrisManciniEsq.com -----------------------------------------------STEPHEN D. JEROME ATTORNEY AT LAW Bankruptcy, Mortgage Foreclosure Defense, Wills, Estate Planning & Probate, Real Estate Closings, Domestic Partneship Agreements 954-946-0916, SJerome_Esq@bellsouth.net -----------------------------------------------ATTORNEY ROBIN L. BODIFORD, JD, MSW Wills & Trusts, Bankruptcy, Trust Admin, Probate, GLBT Issues, Incorporations 954-630-2707, www.RobinBodifordLaw.com -----------------------------------------------GREGORY W. KABEL ATTORNEY AT LAW Wills & Trusts, Estate Planning, Probate, Domestic Agreements, Business Formation & Transactions, Real Estate. 2312 Wilton Drive, Wilton Manors, FL 33305 954-761-7770, gwkesq@bellsouth.net -----------------------------------------------EMERGENCY SERVICES 24, INC. Complete Plumbing Services 24 Hour Water Removal 305-557-8998, 561-818-1171 www.WaterDamage24.com -----------------------------------------------EXPERT CARPET, TILE & UPHOLSTERY CLEANING BY DESI $59.99 2 Rooms, Deep Steam Cleaning Carpet or Sofa, Free Deodorizer $99.00 Winter Special Tile & Grout Or 35 cents per sq.ft.

954-383-5054 -----------------------------------------------A&A ROOFING AND GENERAL CONTRACTORS 954-274-9378 Licensed & Insured #93BS00177 -----------------------------------------------“I SHOW UP” HANDYMAN 954-684-9277 Sean SeanHarrenFTL@mac.com -----------------------------------------------BROWARD BOYS PAINTERS Residential & Commercial Interior & Exterior 954-720-9605 www.BrowardBoys.com -----------------------------------------------THE PAINTING COMPANY Residential & Commercial Solids, Faux Finishes, Murals, Color Coordination, Venetian Plaster, Interior/Exterior. 954-292-8219 PAINTandFAUX@aol.com -----------------------------------------------CGR PROFESSIONAL PAINTING Broward, West Palm, Dade Residential/Commercial 786-419-1360 -----------------------------------------------BROWARD PET CARE PROFESSIONALS Pet Sitting, Dog Walking, Day Care, Pet Taxi 954-612-2278, www.BrowardPetCarePros.com Certified, Bonded and Insured -----------------------------------------------TOTAL MANAGEMENT SOLUTIONS, INC. Condo & HOA Management Bookkeeping, Tenant Screening Contractor/Employee Oversight 954-727-3833, www.TotalMSolutions.com -----------------------------------------------HOME SOLUTIONS PROPERTY MANAGEMENT 954-545-3027 Office www.RentSoon.com

-----------------------------------------------PANE IN THE GLASS Window Tint Removal, Window Cleaning Power Washing, Screen Repairs Handyman, Painting. Call Scotty 954-566-4415, Lic. & Insured -----------------------------------------------LICENSED CONTRACTOR Carports to Garages, Kitchen & Bath Remodeling, Home Additions, Complete Roofs, Rotted Facia and More…

Call 561-577-3017, Lic#CGC151692 -----------------------------------------------DINKLE DOG GROOMING WILTON MANORS Small to Medium Dogs 954-562-2278, DinkleDogs@aol.com -----------------------------------------------MY BREAKFAST IN BED AS SEEN ON TV…instead of sending flowers, Send a breakfast in bed! For menus and to order Online: www.mybreakfastinbed.com Karl’s Catering 305-829-5607 -----------------------------------------------PLANNING A MOVE? At Cousins USA Moving & Storage, we want you to smile when you think of moving day, and we want you to tell a friend how pleasant your moving experience has been. For more info on about how we can make moving day a good day. Call toll-free at 1-888-300-MOVE, ask for Carlos.

-----------------------------------------------IRRIGATION SYSTEM REPAIR AND MAINTENANCE 19 yrs. experience, excellent work, referrals by request. Call Roberto at 954-383-8980 -----------------------------------------------ONE STOP SHOPPING AND ASSOCIATES HANDYMAN/ REMODELING AND MORE WITH OVER 30 YEARS EXPERIENCE IN ALL PHASES OF...

Home improvements, a/c, extensions, electrical, plumbing, painting, kitchen, baths, flooring/ trim, steel erector and fabricator. PGT Impact Windows at Factory Direct Prices. Former owner of a NY remodeling co. as well as a hands on worker, because I demand perfection in all I do. Please call Mitch for prompt honest and dependable service. Lic. CGC1514441, EC13001388 and insured. (954) 253-4650 -----------------------------------------------GREAT MASSAGE! GREAT RATES! PRIVATE STUDIO NOW OPEN! Great Massage, Great Rates. See my Display ad, or visit my website at www. massagebyjim.com Call Jim Libonati at 954-600-5843. Licensed, insured and nationally certified MA50898 -----------------------------------------------THE ELECTRICIAN Ceiling fans, outlets, water heaters, service increases, pools, Jacuzzi, pumps, timers, photocells, 220 fuse box, yard lights. 954-522-3357, 561-274-7446 or 305534-1551. Licensed/Insured.

-----------------------------------------------EXPERT AIR ADVICE AIR CONDITIONING REPAIRS Cooling is what we do best. FPL rebates, insured, CACO 36862. FREE estimates on replacements. $75 tune up, Call 954-764-1990 -----------------------------------------------***CLEAN IT RITE*** THE BEST CLEANING FOR YOUR BUCK! 1BD $45, 2BD $55, 3BD $65.

Excellent rates and references. 10 years in the business. Call Manny at 954-560-4443 -----------------------------------------------HOME REMODELING/REPAIR From Small Repairs to High End Remodeling. Specializing in Kitchens and Baths.

Exceptional work ethic. Carpentry, plumbing ,electrical, etc. 20 Years Experience. Atelier Development. Call 954-612-7795 for free estimate.

-----------------------------------------------WWW. EMERALDIRISHCLEANING.COM SPECIALS • SPECIALS English Speaking, Hand Scrubbed Floors, Staff Fingerprinted, Detailed, 3 hours $55, 4 hours $65. Call 954-524-3161. Serving the community for 20 years.

-----------------------------------------------ONE CALL DOES IT ALL BY HOUSE! Carpet Cleaning, House Cleaning, Tile & Grout, Upholstery Air Ducts, Pressure Cleaning- Patios, sidewalks, & drive ways. Construction and Foreclosure Clean Up. Cell 954-515-7615

-----------------------------------------------NEED A LAWYER ?

Criminal Defense * DUI Traffic * Accidents * Injuries * Personal Injury * AAA Attorney Referral Service 24 Hours * 1-800-733-5342 -----------------------------------------------RTS ELECTRIC 24 HOUR SERVICE Quality work at a reasonable price.

Licensed & Insured #98-CME-1807-X. Contact 954-257-9509. Also, all size generator service and installation.

-----------------------------------------------DEREK’S 24 HR HANDYMAN SERVICE Introducing our new cabinet shop.

For all your Custom Made Cabintetry, Countertops and Laminates. MUST SEE OUR WORK! JUST ASK OUR CLIENTS! All Electrical to code, any/all plumbing work, drywall finish work/repair, crown/baseboard pro-install, int/ext painting, demo work, pressure washing, DECOR TILE Install, complete home up-dates. For large jobs, 4-man crew abailable. WE HANDLE IT ALL. Instant call back direct service response. No job is ever too small. Excellent references. Derek 954-825-5598 or email: DerekGallaway@att.net -----------------------------------------------BRUCE ELECTRIC CORP. Fair rates/quality work. All electrical services. Repairs/upgrades. Generator sales/ installations. Prompt/reliable/ dependable. State licensed & ins.

EC13001903 954-748-6234 -----------------------------------------------EARLY BIRD CONSTRUCTION ROOFING, CARPENTRY, TILE, PAINT. Honest and ON TIME! 954-274-9378 -----------------------------------------------HANDY MAN SERVICE Professional, safe, reliable, painting, bathroom, tile and flooring Repair or replace faucet fixture ,toilets, ceiling fans electrical outlets and dimmer switches, Install lighting fixtures. I work with Realtors home owners. Installing counter tops and cabinets. Free estimate call Eli for more info 954-638-7034.

Services KFIR MOYAL PROFESSIONAL BODYWORK www.KfirMoyal.com, 404-966-1036 -----------------------------------------------ITALIAN BODYWORK Call me for your next great body rub!

954-494-5936 -----------------------------------------------DEEP MUSCULAR MASSAGE If my massage isn’t one of the best you’ve ever had, you don’t have to pay me.

Jamie G. 954-547-4872 -----------------------------------------------BESTOFFLORIDAMASSAGE.COM 8AM – 8PM, 7 Days a week 954-356-9348 -----------------------------------------------RELAX IN A MAN’S HANDS Hot Rubs $70+ North Dade IN/OUT Pro Table Paul 305-903-3331 -----------------------------------------------I WILL RUB YOU RIGHT! Joe 954-270-0357 -----------------------------------------------STEVE-JORDAN.COM Experience the ultimate in bodywork!

954-560-2542 -----------------------------------------------USA BODYWORK Kenn Steed, Fort Lauderdale 954-683-3360 www.USABodywork.us -----------------------------------------------EXTRAORDINARY MASSAGE Through Healing Spiritual Touch Shark 954-478-6728 -----------------------------------------------ASIAN INDIAN BOY 30 years old Handsome Boy for erotic rub down. Tantric work too Call 954-394-4150 for apt. anytime.

In & Out. -----------------------------------------------***TOTAL BLISS**** If you overweight and over 60 you get my $60 special. Totally release every ounce of stress from your body by 43 yr old, 5’6”, 150lbs, moderately hairy, 8.5”, thick rugged hung nude dude. You will find it hard to get off the table when I’m through with you.

Showers available. Ask about four hands!

Call Steve 954-770-6117 or 954-661-4920

-----------------------------------------------DADDY’S HOME! It’s been a long day and I am looking to unwind by spending some “quality” with my boy. Your dad is handsome, late 40’s, masculine, fit, salt & pepper hair, hairy chest and 9 X 6 uncut. I will arrive at your door dressed in my work suit and tie or jeans and work boots. Either way, I am ready for some “daddy and me” time with you. West Palm Beach to North Broward in or out calls. Why wait another minute? Call me now…10:00 AM - 9:00 PM Dino 561-333-0115 -----------------------------------------------BODY & ENERGY WORK Offering 1 HR Full Body Massage To Release Stress and Tension. Licensed Massage Therapist from Provincetown.

Wilton Manors $55 w/ Table. Call Keith 954-764-8478 10 AM to 8 PM Daily -----------------------------------------------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 -----------------------------------------------SENSUAL MASSAGE Indulge yourself in relaxation, revitalization; and, stimulation with a totally relaxing full body Sensual Massage. Provided in the nude by a handsome mature man in an intimate spa like environment. GayBi-Straight men welcomed. Convenient NE Ft. Lauderdale location. Privacy and absolute discretion assured. Call Ryan @ 954-593-6637 -----------------------------------------------LET ME SHAVE YOU NAKED! Sensual body shaving and intimate hair removal in the comfort of your own home. Friendly, no attitude, Broward only. $50.00 per session, call Michael at 954-581-4850 -----------------------------------------------A GREAT MASSAGE AWAITS! I offer excellent massage sessions consisting of Deep Tissue, Swedish and Sensual Touch. I can customize the session to your needs. Try adding a Shave-Trim / Saltscrub / Bodywash / Face Treatment & More! Me: 41, Hot Bear Cub with nice legs and butt. Clothing Optional. Hours 8am -Midnight. To book an appointment, Call David 954-802-8128 http://davidrubnmassage.webs.com DavidRubnMassage@aol.com -----------------------------------------------HUNG BISEXUAL LATIN GUY 28 YO, 5’10”, 170lbs, Smooth, Great Shape & Very Sexy, Honey Eyes, Masculine, 8 Inches, No Attitude - Very Funny, Let me relax you all the way! Call Luis 786290-4796 -----------------------------------------------ORIENTAL WORK Full Body Deep Tissue work given by athletic, muscular, nice Asian guy, 5’7”, 130lbs. 954-548-5081 Lee -----------------------------------------------REAL ASIAN HANDS Trained, skilled, open-minded with table and erotic finish-cute and slim.

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Deep muscle. COME and RELEASE your TENSION. IN/OUT calls 8 AM to 7PM EVERYDAY. Clean, STD Free, and discreet.

954-257-0782 or Mineis8.5X6@gmail.com -----------------------------------------------ITALIAN SENSUAL BODY RUB in Fort Lauderdale! I’ m 41, naked, sweet, smiling, very soft hands. Relax your body and your spirit! Max bavierino@hotmail. it 954-401-5662 -----------------------------------------------MAN OH MAN 34 yr old, Good looking, Muscular, Hot Body Guy. Available For Full Body Erotic Rubs. Sure To Please Every Aching Muscle. Mike 954-328-2321. www. rentboy.com -----------------------------------------------PRO MASSAGE Straight looking, 29yo, 5’11”, 180lbs, short brown hair, brown eyes, 8in cut. In shape, great legs, all around great looking. More than one person available. OUT ONLY $100-$150. Call Josh 954-446-3187

-----------------------------------------------WWW.HOTMUSCLEMASSAGE.COM Hot Muscles, Massages & More! Call 786-352-0430 or visit www.hotmusclemassage.com -----------------------------------------------SENSUAL RUBDOWN Full body rubdown by hairy guy in the ‘buff’. Very relaxing, happy ending.

Discreet. $40. Gregory 954-254-0927 -----------------------------------------------BODY CARE SERVICES 4 Hand or Solo Massage Master Haircuts, Body Trims Private Shaves, Waxing, Facials, Manicures, Pedicures, Personal Trainer, Pet Sitter, Daniel 954-260-5588 www.Masseurfinder.com/bodyspa Lic.# MA15163 -----------------------------------------------AWESOME BODYWORK BY PAUL www.PaulBunting.com/Yoga Escape Now! Experience Hands On Thai Yin Yoga Bodywork and Feel The ultimate enjoyment! 60 or 90 Minute sessions! 954-756-2615 -----------------------------------------------HAIRY MASCULINE BODY RUB Friendly, Discreet, Professional Sensual Rub $75+ Call Bo 954-880-7543 www.massagem4m.com/musclechest4xrub -----------------------------------------------REAL MASSAGE WITH A SENSUAL EDGE Experienced, Intuitive & Sensual Call Tommy, CMT 646-416-0800 www.masseurfinder.com/BodyworkByTommy

Models CARLOS 305-812-5085 27YO, Cuban, 5’7”, 140lbs., Green Eyes, Vers. Top, Passionate, Clean Location Miami Beach -----------------------------------------------DANIEL 754-214-3164 Available for Body Rubs & Companionship 6’2”, 215lbs FTL, WPB, Miami -----------------------------------------------HAVE ME ON YOUR DOORSTEP IN 30 MINUTES! TREAT YOURSELF! Alex, 27YO, Cuban American, 5’8”, 160lbs, Masculine No Attitude, Very Well Hung & Versatile. 786-319-7665 -----------------------------------------------YOUR DESIRES IN TOTAL RAPTURE Gay black male, 6’2”, 190 lbs., athletic build, 9” thick cut, TOP GUY. Achieve your climax experience. Wendell 954-646-6222, 24 hrs., discreet. Specializing in body rubs, hair trimming, shaving and waxing.

ONLY SERIOUS INQUIRIES PLEASE. -----------------------------------------------10 IN VERSATILE TATTOOED JOCK 24yo, 5’10, 160lbs, blonde hair, green eyes, smooth/shaved everywhere, 13 tattoos, 10 in cut, big balls, pink hole, versatile, lean/muscular. Friendly/affectionate. Into anything from vanilla to kink. 3-somes available with my 18 y/o blonde brother.

954-462-3394. www.mattsapartment.com -----------------------------------------------BLACK AMERICAN TOP Handsome, very hard muscular body. 9” cut. ANYTHING GOES, LOVE TO PLEASE. 6’1”, 189lbs, 32”W. Call 24/7. In/Out. Dosn’t matter how you look. Buddy Available. Call Travis. 954-461-8161

-----------------------------------------------ASSAHOLIC 100% Dominican! Smoking hot Latino, with dark hair, and bubble butt. Well hung, and always hard!!! . 33, 155pds, 40” chest, 30” waist. Male couples, Bruthaz, Bi-curios, and first timers a plus! CALL TONY 305781-1711 (OK to Text) No private numbers.

-----------------------------------------------COLLEGE STUDENT 27 YO Cuban American, 5’7” 158lbs, Beautiful Face, Tan Skin, Light Eyes, HARD Muscular Body, BIG DICK, No Attitude, Versatile. 30 Min to MIA, SoBe, FTL. $150 IN/OUT 24/7. Couples Welcome & Hotels.

Call Alex 786-319-7665 -----------------------------------------------ENJOY THE COMPANY OF A HOT, SEXY, DISCREET, LATIN STUD! MUY CALIENTE! Hi! Thank you for checking my ad. I’m 5’10, 32 waist, 175 lbs, muscular and smooth. Great skin and body. In/out. 24/7.

ALL TYPES welcome. Call Tony 954- 6043980. Very friendly and easy to talk to.

-----------------------------------------------CHIPPENDALE, GQ-HOT BODYBUILDER / ESCORT Hi, I’m Rock. I’ve been featured in Chippendale Calendars. 6’, 210lbs of rock hard lean throbbing muscle. Very Masculine, black hair, blue eyes. Role Play, Fantasies, Body Rubs, etc. Call Rock 24/7 954-865-7412 -----------------------------------------------HAKEEM IS IN TOWN! Black Male Power Top, 180lbs., 6’, smooth body, great shape, always horny, 10” cut. In/Out calls. Satisfaction Guaranteed. Call 24/7 305-761-6818, Vers. buddy available.

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PERSONALS HENRY FLOREZ Please call Ed. I have $5,000 for you. Call 863-618-7460

PJ’s Private Club

For membership, call: 954-533-0257

48

February 15, 2010 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

GLCC Ribbon Cutting Brings Friends and Memories to Equality Park

By Cliff Dunn

Also in attendance were Wilton Manors Chief of Police Rick Perez and Fort Lauderdale Police Chief Frank Adderly, as well as the n a spectacular event that evoked at times a similar ceremony held ten years organization’s board of directors and staff.

The Pride Center at Equality Park was ago, gay and lesbian business and comfounded in 1993 as the Gay and Lesbian munity leaders celebrated the Pride Center Community Center of South Florida. at Equality Park’s official ribbon cutting on Over the years, the Center has provided Friday, February 12.

Said Robert Boo, Development Director for a variety of services to the GLBT community, including telephone crisis counseling, the Pride Center: “The response was overwhelmingly positive.We are so encouraged to suicide prevention, information and referral have so many tireless and engaged supporters.” services, as well as HIV testing and medical Gay and gay-friendly elected and municipal study groups.

For many, the ceremony brought to mind officials joined hundreds of activists and local the June 2000 ribbon cutting for the original GLBT South Floridians to commemorate the contributions and efforts of the Center’s GLCC, a 16,000 square foot facility at 1717 North Andrews Avenue. That building was staff, directors, and benefactors. also the site of the Stonewall Library, one Those attending included some of the of the nation’s largest collections of GLBT most influential members of South Florida’s GLBT community, including Broward County literature. The Stonewall Library has also since moved, to East Sunrise Boulevard in Mayor Ken Keechl, the nation’s second Fort Lauderdale. highest-ranking gay elected official, Wilton Resnick, who issued a proclamation on Manors Mayor Gary Resnick, and Oakland behalf of the City of Wilton Manors, was one Park Vice Mayor Anthony Niedwiecki.

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What you don’t read here, READ HERE: www.SouthFloridaGayNews.com 2520 N. Dixie Highway Wilton Manors, FL 954-530-4970

the

2010 glcc ribbon cutting ceremony last friday afternoon

of those present at the GLCC ribbon cutting 10 years ago.

For many, the most striking part of the ceremony was the large group who attended.

“Love it,” said Al Cicotte, managing partner at American Tax and Investment in Wilton Manors. “This is representative of the economic clout represented in this population.”

Christopher Dunham, president of Dunham Insurance Services in Fort Lauderdale, agreed.

“Even in a tough economic recovery, you can see professionals in this community are committing their resources to important

projects like this,” Dunham said.

“We are grateful for the quality of our benefactors and board members,” says the Pride Center’s Boo. “All of the people who have been involved—both financially and operationally—have left an indelible mark on what we do here.”

Even the sudden downpour at the ceremony’s conclusion didn’t dampen the spirits of the crowd. As he was leaving, Dan Pye, an investment vice president with Morgan Stanley, said “they should all be very proud of the turnout and the level of support.”