A Journalist's Story

LOCAL NAME GLOBAL COVERAGE FEBRUARY 11, 2021 VOL. 12 // ISSUE 6

SCOTT TRAVIS A JOURNALIST’S STORY — FROM PARKLAND TO PULITZER

PAGES 10

LGBT Rights Expanded PAGE 26 McNaught On ‘Saying Less’ PAGE 30 Chief On ‘Giving More’ GAZETTE, PAGE 4

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@SFGN February 11, 2021 • Volume 12 • Issue 6 2520 N. Dixie Highway • Wilton Manors, FL 33305 QUEER TEACHER BEHIND BERNIE SANDERS’ Phone: 954-530-4970 Fax: 954-530-7943 Publisher • Norm Kent [email protected] Associate Publisher / NOW FAMOUS MITTENS Executive Editor • Jason Parsley [email protected] Editorial Kim Swan Art Director • Brendon Lies [email protected] Webmaster • Kimberly Swan emember Bernie Sanders’ now famous [email protected] mittens from inauguration day? Turns Social Media Director • Christiana Lilly Arts/Entertainment Editor • J.W. Arnold Rout a queer school teacher from [email protected] Vermont is behind them. And now she’s Food/Travel Editor • Rick Karlin using her newfound fame to raise money for Gazette News Editor • John McDonald HIV Editor • Sean McShee summer camp for LGBT youth. Senior Photographer • J.R. Davis With the Bernie Sanders’ mitten meme [email protected] growing popular each day, Camp Outright Senior Feature Columnists came up with a way to earn money for LGBT Brian McNaught • Jesse Monteagudo youth to attend camp. Correspondents Perhaps one of the reasons why the meme Dori Zinn • Donald Cavanaugh is so popular is because rather than wear Christiana Lilly • John McDonald formal attire, Sanders wore a parka and a large Denise Royal • David-Elijah Nahmod pair of fluffy mittens. Contributing Columnists Pier Angelo • Terri Schlichenmeyer Sanders reacted to the memes by defending Dana Rudolph • Ric Reily his choice of clothing: “In Vermont we dress Associate Photographers warm. We know something about the cold, Carina Mask • Steven Shires and we’re not so concerned about good fashion. We want to keep warm, and that’s Sales & Marketing what I did [on that day],” he told CBS 8. For ad placement in SFGN, Another reason why the contact 954-530-4970 mittens went viral is because of Sales Manager • Justin Wyse the queer teacher who created ELLIS ADMITTED [email protected] them in the first place: Jen Ellis. Jen Ellis. Photo courtesy of Jen Ellis. Senior Advertising Associate • Edwin Neimann Ellis admitted to The TO THE [email protected] Advocate that she gave Sanders ADVOCATE Camp Outright is a place across the country in just six days, according Distribution Services • Noah Lebel the mittens when he lost the for LGBT youth to find a to the press release. Sales Consultant • Charles A. Reid election to Hillary Clinton in THAT SHE GAVE sense of belonging since they On Jan. 29, Outright held an auction National Advertising 2016. SANDERS THE face rejection and isolation with John Canning being the top bidder for Rivendell Media 212-242-6863 “I was just sad because even worldwide, therefore they mittens at $7,650. Being a longtime supporter [email protected] though I like Hillary, I’m also MITTENS WHEN are always looking for ways to of Outright, he donated the mittens back, Accounting Services by CG Bookkeeping super pro-Bernie, and as a HE LOST THE make the youth feel like they causing a second bidder to win them and Printing by Stuart Web Inc. public school teacher, I can ELECTION TO belong, according to the press raising a total of $14,850 that day, according to see every day how families release. the press release. are struggling. People are just HILLARY CLINTON The organization also Because of the success of the auction, trying to make ends meet and IN 2016. provides other programs such Canning came up with a challenge that if SFGN Winner of they need things like student as Friday Night Group, which Outright could raise an additional $10,000 & 5 Florida Press Club Awards loan forgiveness and free is a support group for self- by Feb. 5, Physician’s Computer Company will And runner-up for education and a lot of the things that Bernie identified queer, trans, and questioning youth match those gifts dollar for dollar. NLGJA Journalist of the Year is fighting for,” Ellis told The Advocate. “I ages 13-22, and another social group for kids To help support LGBT youth attend camp, sent him these mittens kind of as a shout- under 13 who their parents/caregivers can join you can donate to Mitten Magic Continues on SOUTH FLORIDA GAY NEWS.COM, INC. out to who he is, and I put a note in that said as well. the Outright website. — — something to the effect of ‘I hope you run By using the mittens to her advantage, Ellis In the wake of the pandemic, the camp will FOUNDED, DECEMBER, 2009 again.’” helped raise nearly $20,000 by people from be held virtually this year. BY PIER GUIDUGLI AND NORM KENT

South Florida Gay News is published weekly. The opinions expressed in columns, stories, and letters to the editor do not represent the opinions of SFGN, or the Publisher. You should not presume the sexual orientation of individuals based on their names SEE OUR COVER: Scott Travis posing with the Pulitzer Prize. Photo courtesy of Scott Travis. or pictorial representations. Furthermore the word “gay” in SFGN should be interpreted to be inclusive of the entire LGBT community. All of the material/columns that appears in print and online, including NEWS IN articles used in conjunction with the AP, is protected under federal copyright and intellectual property laws, and is jealously guarded VIDEO! by the newspaper. Nothing published may be reprinted in whole or part without getting written consent from the Publisher, at his law office, at [email protected]. SFGN, as a private corporation, reserves the right to enforce its own standards regarding the Online now! suitability of advertising copy, illustrations and photographs. Associated Press Copyright © 2021 South Florida Gay News.com, Inc.

2 • 2.11.2021 2.11.2021 • 3 NEWS INTERNATIONAL BY AVRAHAM FORREST

AROUND EXPLORING LGBT NEWS EVENTS ACROSS THE WORLD THE GLOBE CENTRAL EUROPE AFRICA

THREE COUNTRIES LEAVE PROJECT AFTER FOUR LGBT SHELTERS POLISH ANTI-LGBT RESOLUTION OPEN IN CAMEROON In Cameroon, four organizations have Norway, Iceland and Liechtenstein Carpathian Mountains, Poland. Credit: kallerna, via Wikipedia. A ribbon-cutting ceremony at the shelter run by Camfaids in opened shelters in response to violence, pulled out of a $2.25 million culture Yaoundé, Cameroon. Photo courtesy of Camfaids. and natural heritage project in Poland human rights abuses and family after the country passed an anti-LGBT rejections LGBT people have faced, resolution, Reuters reported. Erasing 76 Crimes reported. The decision became known on Feb. LGBT advocacy organizations 2, Reuters reported. The three nations Camfaids, 2HRC, Alcondoms and Colibri canceled a grant to Poland’s Carpathian run the shelters. Mountains in September. Shelters provide medical and Letters between Poland and Norway psychological assistance as well as officials posted by a Polish LGBT activist employment training, 76 Crimes reported. on his website revealed the decision, The U.S. President’s Emergency Plan Reuters reported. for AIDS Relief is funding the project, the Poland’s minister of funds and regional passed a resolution in 2019 which United States Agency for International policy said in a letter that the nation’s expressed opposition to the promotion Development is supervising and Care around 15 residents. LGBT-free zones, the subject of much of and affirmation of LGBT ideology, Cameroon’s Human Rights Grant Residents can stay in shelters between the uproar, are not discriminatory. The Reuters reported. In September, Norway program is supporting it. one and three months based on their letter was also published on the activist’s said it would not fund the Polish The shelters also provide bunk beds, circumstance. Each shelter comes with website. municipalities that have passed LGBT- bathrooms, kitchens and living rooms, a manager who monitors security, in Podkarpackie, a region in Poland, free resolutions, almost a 100 now. 76 Crimes reported. Each shelter can fit addition to other duties. EASTERN EUROPE NORTH AMERICA

GAY CHECHENS QUEBEC RULINGS MARK PROGRESS FACE DANGER FOR TRANS COMMUNITY A LGBT rights group said two gay men Photo via PxHere. A Quebec Superior Court judge Photo via Adobe. face danger in Chechnya after they were invalidated several Civil Code articles seized by near Moscow last week, the on Jan. 29, which included articles Agence France-Presse (AFP) reported. preventing the change of the legal sex The two men were detained for listed on individuals’ “act of birth” unknown reasons and sent back to documents, the CBC reported. Chechnya. A spokesman for the LGBT Also invalidated was a provision Network, a rights group, said the Federal requiring someone be an identified as Security Service domestic intelligence mother or father in birth documents, agency detained and sent back the two excluding non-binary options. The CBC men, AFP reported. reported Justice Gregory Moore gave the The two Chechen men attempted to province of Quebec until the end of 2021 flee to a region East of Moscow in June to make the amendments. of last year after they were tortured by Sophia D’Aoust, president of Gender Chechen special police in April, AFP Mosaic, a transgender social and reported. support group, told the CBC changing Spokesman Tim Bestsvet said the hearts or minds of society is another two men were initially arrested due to hurdle. their sexual orientation, AFP reported. operating an opposition Telegram, an “Society needs to be changed comprehension, support, acceptance Officially, the men were arrested for instant messaging service, channel. through education, understanding, and love,” D’Aoust told the CBC.

4 • 2.11.2021 2.11.2021 • 5 NEWS INTERNATIONAL BY ELLIOT RODRIGUEZ

THE KEEP UP WITH THE CELEBRITIES IN OUR GAY VINE COMMUNITY MUSIC DRAG OUT AT LAST BITCH PLEASE! COUNTRY SINGER T.J. OSBORNE IS GAY GINNY LEMON MAKES ‘HERSTORY’ IN ‘DRAG RACE UK’ T.J. Osborne, lead vocalist of the band Ginny Lemon, after appearing in the Ginny Lemon. Photo credit: RuPaul’s UK Drag Race. The Brother Osborne, opened up about T.J. Osborne. Photo via Facebook. bottom two in the competition, decided his sexuality in a recent article published to just walk out and not do a lip-sync by Time. battle. “I’m very comfortable being gay,” Pinknews UK said, “Not since Osborne told Time. He also noted, “I find BenDeLaChrist has a ‘Drag Race’ queen myself being guarded for not wanting to shook up proceedings quite like Ginny talk about something that I personally Lemon.” don’t have a problem with. That feels so Lemon was obviously not feeling a lip- strange.” sync battle, but she did fancy a cup of tea. Osborne may now just be telling the In an interview with Pinknews UK she the middle of the competition? Lemon public he’s gay; he’s been out to family said, “I’m making herstory, as they say. said it was a multitude of reasons, but the and close friends for a long time. is notorious for pushing a progressive Basically all I decided to do was go and biggest reason was that she had to go with It is understandable to see why Osborne agenda, the country has historically been have a cup of tea, and by the time I came her gut feeling. was a little hesitant over the years to go its counterpoint.” back all the lights were off. And as far as “It said to me ‘Ginny, they’re not buying public with his statement. Time notes, The brothers still plan on continuing I’m aware RuPaul has never said ‘Ginny what you’re selling.’ And there was no “Country music remains a bastion of their journey with music and plan on Lemon, sashay away,’ so I’m still in the way that I was going to go up against mainstream conservatism in American opening a wider horizon for new fans to competition, technically.” somebody I had such a blossoming arts and culture. If liberal Hollywood feel welcomed. What caused her to just leave during friendship with.” FILM

GERMANDIVERSITY ACTORS DEMAND REPRESENTATION German actors are calling for more directors, etc. — to keep quiet about viewing habits for film and TV series screen diversity. One hundred and our sexual orientations and gender are expanding and changing ... Diversity eighty-five out German actors have identities to avoid jeopardizing our has long been a lived social reality in taken it upon themselves to write a careers,” Queerty noted. Germany. Sadly, this fact is still hardly letter to the German entertainment The actors say that straight white reflected in our cultural narratives.” industry to resolve the issue. men dominate the television industry To go along with the manifesto The actors published an “#ActOut in Germany. written up by the German actors, manifesto” in the leading German German actors know that the Queerty said that the “Süddeutsche newspaper the Süddeutsche Zeitung, audience is changing, and is ready for Zeitung ran an article about how it came according to Queerty. diversity on screen. They refer to the to be created, including interviews with “Until now, we haven’t been able to advances that America has taken in some of the signatories.” be open about our private lives without recent years and the effort that they It looks like Germany and its fearing professional consequences. have put in to include more of the audience is ready to see some changes All too often, many of us have been LGBT community on screen. to the big screen; change seems to be Tom Keune, one of the 185 out German actors to add their name to the cautioned — be it by managers, casting Another actor said, “The experience right around the corner one brave step “#ActOut manifesto.” Photo via Tom Keune, Facebook. agents, colleagues, producers, editors, of the last few years has shown that the at a time.

6 • 2.11.2021 NEWS STATE WEEKLY TRACKING OF COVID-19 IN SOUTH FLORIDA

Sean McShee

CUMULATIVE KNOWN COVID-19 CASES IN CUMULATIVE KNOWN COVID-19 DEATHS THREECumulative SOUTH Known FLORIDA COVID- 19COUNTIES: Cases in IN THREE SOUTH FLORIDA COUNTIES: Three South Florida Counties: Cumulative KnownKnown COVIDCOVID--1919 Cases Deaths in in FEBRUARYFebruary 2 THROUGH 2 through FEBRUARYFebruary 8 8 FEBRUARYThreeThree South South 2 THROUGH Florida Florida Counties: Counties: FEBRUARY 8 FebruaryFebruary 2 2 through through February February 8 8 Percent Increase in cumulative COVID-19 cases from 2/2 to 2/8 Percent Increase in cumulative COVID-19 deaths from 2/2 to 2/8 Palm Beach 3.0%, Broward 2.9%, and Miami Dade 2.6% Percent Increase in cumulative COVID-19 cases from 2/2 to 2/8 PalmPalm Beach Beach 3.0%, 3.2%, Broward Broward 2.9%, 3.1%, and Miamiand Miami Dade Dade 2.6% 2.7%

384,971 376,552 377,999 380,716 382,186 383,601 375,322 383,601 384,9715,039 375,3224,907 376,5524,919 377,9994,942 380,7164,964 382,1864,979 5,011

176,144 177,319 178,116 178,948 179,745 174,679 175,306 176,144 177,319 2,250178,948 2,269179,745 174,6792,199 175,3062,212 2,238 2,249 178,1162,249 2,119 2,125 2,139 2,150 2,162 2,169 2,185 111,437 108,173 108,585 109,219 110,108 110,639 111,024 111,437 108,173 108,585 109,219 110,108 110,639 111,024

2/2 2/3 2/4 2/5 2/6 2/7 2/8 2/2 2/2 2/3 2/3 2/4 2/4 2/5 2/5 2/62/6 2/72/7 2/82/8 Palm Beach Broward Miami-Dade Palm Beach Palm Beach BrowardBroward Miami DadeMiami-DadeSource Fl DOH Dashboard Source Fl DOH Dashboard Source Fl DOH Dashboard Source: Florida DOH Dashboard. Source: Florida DOH Dashboard.

2.11.2021 • 7 IMPORTANT FACTS FOR BIKTARVY® This is only a brief summary of important information about BIKTARVY and does not replace (bik-TAR-vee) talking to your healthcare provider about your condition and your treatment.

MOST IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT BIKTARVY POSSIBLE SIDE EFFECTS OF BIKTARVY BIKTARVY may cause serious side eects, including: BIKTARVY may cause serious side eects, including:  Worsening of hepatitis B (HBV) infection. If you have  Those in the “Most Important Information About both HIV-1 and HBV, your HBV may suddenly get worse if BIKTARVY” section. you stop taking BIKTARVY. Do not stop taking BIKTARVY  Changes in your immune system. Your immune system without ﬁrst talking to your healthcare provider, as they may get stronger and begin to ﬁght infections. Tell your will need to check your health regularly for several months. healthcare provider if you have any new symptoms after you start taking BIKTARVY. ABOUT BIKTARVY  Kidney problems, including kidney failure. Your healthcare BIKTARVY is a complete, 1-pill, once-a-day prescription provider should do blood and urine tests to check your medicine used to treat HIV-1 in adults and children who kidneys. If you develop new or worse kidney problems, they weigh at least 55 pounds. It can either be used in people who may tell you to stop taking BIKTARVY. have never taken HIV-1 medicines before, or people who are  Too much lactic acid in your blood (lactic acidosis), which is replacing their current HIV-1 medicines and whose healthcare a serious but rare medical emergency that can lead to death. provider determines they meet certain requirements. Tell your healthcare provider right away if you get these symptoms: weakness or being more tired than usual, unusual BIKTARVY does not cure HIV-1 or AIDS. HIV-1 is the virus muscle pain, being short of breath or fast breathing, stomach that causes AIDS. pain with nausea and vomiting, cold or blue hands and feet, Do NOT take BIKTARVY if you also take a medicine that contains: feel dizzy or lightheaded, or a fast or abnormal heartbeat.  Severe liver problems, which in rare cases can lead to death. DIMITRI  dofetilide Tell your healthcare provider right away if you get these  rifampin symptoms: skin or the white part of your eyes turns yellow, LIVING WITH HIV SINCE 2018  any other medicines to treat HIV-1 dark “tea-colored” urine, light-colored stools, loss of appetite REAL BIKTARVY PATIENT for several days or longer, nausea, or stomach-area pain. BEFORE TAKING BIKTARVY  The most common side eects of BIKTARVY in clinical studies were diarrhea (6%), nausea (6%), and headache (5%). Tell your healthcare provider if you: These are not all the possible side eects of BIKTARVY.  Have or have had any kidney or liver problems, including Tell your healthcare provider right away if you have any hepatitis infection. new symptoms while taking BIKTARVY.  Have any other health problems. You are encouraged to report negative side eects of  Are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. It is not known if prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit www.FDA.gov/medwatch KEEP BIKTARVY can harm your unborn baby. Tell your healthcare or call 1-800-FDA-1088. provider if you become pregnant while taking BIKTARVY. Your healthcare provider will need to do tests to monitor your  Are breastfeeding (nursing) or plan to breastfeed. Do not health before and during treatment with BIKTARVY. breastfeed. HIV-1 can be passed to the baby in breast milk. ASPIRING. Tell your healthcare provider about all the medicines HOW TO TAKE BIKTARVY you take: Take BIKTARVY 1 time each day with or without food. Because HIV doesn’t change who you are.  Keep a list that includes all prescription and over-the-counter GET MORE INFORMATION medicines, antacids, laxatives, vitamins, and herbal supplements, and show it to your healthcare provider  This is only a brief summary of important information about BIKTARVY® is a complete, 1-pill, once-a-day prescription medicine used and pharmacist. BIKTARVY. Talk to your healthcare provider or pharmacist to learn more. to treat HIV-1 in certain adults. BIKTARVY does not cure HIV-1 or AIDS.  BIKTARVY and other medicines may aect each other. Ask your healthcare provider and pharmacist about  Go to BIKTARVY.com or call 1-800-GILEAD-5 Ask your healthcare provider if BIKTARVY is right for you. medicines that interact with BIKTARVY, and ask if it is  If you need help paying for your medicine, visit BIKTARVY.com safe to take BIKTARVY with all your other medicines. for program information. See Dimitri’s story at BIKTARVY.com. Featured patient compensated by Gilead.

Get HIV support by downloading a free app at BIKTARVY, the BIKTARVY Logo, DAILY CHARGE, the DAILY CHARGE Logo, KEEP ASPIRING, LOVE WHAT’S INSIDE, GILEAD, and the GILEAD Logo are trademarks of Gilead Sciences, Inc., or its related companies. Version date: February 2020 Please see Important Facts about BIKTARVY, including important MyDailyCharge.com © 2020 Gilead Sciences, Inc. All rights reserved. BVYC0218 04/20 warnings, on the previous page and visit BIKTARVY.com.

8 • 2.11.2021BVYC0218_BIKTARVY_B_10X10-75_SouthFloridaGayNews_Dimitri_r1v1jl.indd All Pages 4/13/20 4:57 PM IMPORTANT FACTS FOR BIKTARVY® This is only a brief summary of important information about BIKTARVY and does not replace (bik-TAR-vee) talking to your healthcare provider about your condition and your treatment.

BVYC0218_BIKTARVY_B_10X10-75_SouthFloridaGayNews_Dimitri_r1v1jl.indd All Pages 4/13/202.11.2021 4:57 PM • 9 NEWS STATE A STORY THAT SLOWS YOU DOWN GAY EDUCATION REPORTER CHANGED BY PARKLAND TRAGEDY

John McDonald

or Scott Travis, his career in journalism could be Fdescribed as a course in for better or for worse. What began with monitoring comics for gay content eventually led to writing for a Pulitzer Prize winning team. Feb. 14 marks the three-year anniversary of the Parkland shooting when a troubled teen walked into Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School with a semi-automatic rifle and killed 17 people. Travis was part of the Sun Sentinel’s reporting team that won the 2019 Pulitzer Prize in Public Service for exposing the failings by school and law enforcement officials in preventing the tragedy.

“I thought that winning a Pulitzer was an “Broward is better than most,” he said. “It’s incredible honor and an incredible outrage,” probably one of the most LGBTQ friendly Travis said. “It was an outrage because of the school districts in the country. As much fact that 17 people died, and if that hadn’t corruption, misspending and incompetence happened then we wouldn’t have won it. there has been, their heart seems to be in It was so preventable in all the reporting the right place when it comes to LGBTQ. that we did because all the warning signs It was one of the first school districts to do were there that this person was gonna do a proclamation for LGBT history month. something.” They’ve done a number of forums and Travis began working at the Sun Sentinel included LGBTQ views in a lot of their in 1999, where he covers education. He programming on vulnerable teens.” admits to being a thorn in the side of the Travis admits he was spared any sort of Broward County Public Schools. Recently, discrimination growing up in Alabama. He Travis’ reporting led to the indictment of the came out to his mother at 27, frustrated with School District’s Chief Information Officer her constant inquiries into his dating life. on charges of bribery and bid rigging. “She kept asking me over and over again “There’s a lot of problems with the school about what seemed like every woman I had district,” Travis said. “There are many ever met,” Travis said. concerns that it’s not run very well. They’re Over time, Travis said, his parents became the subject of a grand jury investigation right more accepting. now. Depending on what the outcome of that “Their generation just didn’t talk about it,” is, it makes everybody in the district’s future he said. uncertain if it turns out to be something real It was a gradual coming out process in his bad.” first reporting jobs in Mississippi and North In terms of equality and acceptance of Carolina. LGBT issues, Travis gave the district high “I wasn’t out at my first job in Natchez,” he Scott Travis posing with the Pulitzer Prize. marks. said. “”In Hattiesburg and Fayetteville most Photo courtesy of Scott Travis.

10 • 2.11.2021 NEWS STATE

of the reporters knew I was gay, some of the “It probably made me a lot more police reports and find out that a lot of stuff editors did but nobody ever treated me bad empathetic and in touch with reality,” he never got reported and nobody had any real because of it,” he said. added. “Before Parkland it was really easy for clue how safe their school was.” It was at Hattiesburg American in me to move from one story to the next and Nora Rupert was Chair of the School Board Mississippi where an editor asked Travis to not fully take in the grief I would see people when Parkland happened. She called Travis check the comic strips for gay subject matter. experiencing after the tragedy.” a consummate professional. “He wanted to know if it was there so he Brittany Wallman is one of Travis’ “I found him very funny, engaging and could be prepared,” Travis said. colleagues at the Sun Sentinel and was a extremely knowledgeable,” Rupert said. Later, while working at Fayetteville member of the Pulitzer Prize “What he doesn’t know, he Observer in North Carolina, Travis endured winning investigations team. finds out. He’s relentless in a demeaning company policy which refused She describes Travis as a asking for information even to recognize homosexuality as normal, did “truth warrior” with a great “BEFORE when people are trying to not encourage reporting on gay issues and sense of humor who works PARKLAND IT WAS shut him down.” advised against listing gay lovers in obituaries. long hours exposing cover Travis’ reporting “We have no interest in being a homosexual ups, trying to get information REALLY EASY FOR eventually drew retaliation bulletin board,” Travis recalled of the policy, leaked and staying in contact ME TO MOVE FROM measures. In December which is long gone. with sources. They worked of 2018, a public relations It was through NLGJA: The Association of together in the newspaper’s ONE STORY TO THE consultant hired by the LGBTQ Journalists that Travis got a fresh start Deerfield Beach offices. NEXT AND NOT district called Travis a in South Florida. He took a vacation day at the “I always teased him, ‘Do “skanky jerk” who was Fayetteville paper, traveled to Atlanta for the you live here? Where’s your FULLY TAKE IN THE “sloppy,” “reckless” and Photo courtesy of Scott Travis. annual NLGJA convention and was hired by pillow?” Wallman said. “He GRIEF I WOULD “smells bad.” the Sun Sentinel. Looking back, it was a covert was always at his desk every “He handled that so Meadow was killed, into the national move, Travis said. night before I left.” SEE PEOPLE gracefully,” recalls Wallman. spotlight and led to the election of two “I went on my own to the gay conference so Travis penned five of the EXPERIENCING “He was the bigger person. current board members — Debbi Hixon and I obviously didn’t feel comfortable about it,” Sun Sentinel’s Pulitzer Prize The best kind of people Lori Alhadeff — who lost family members in he said. winning articles. He said the AFTER THE are the ones who can smile the shooting. Nearly two decades later, with sexual big lie was that the school through adversity and not “It turned a sleepy community into a orientation disclosure issues behind him, was super safe and rarely TRAGEDY.” let the barbs get under catalyst for action,” Travis said. Travis had one of the country’s biggest stories had discipline issues. - Scott Travis your skin. Obviously in In the aftermath, when most of the erupt on his beat. Simply put, the Parkland “If you looked at the crime journalism, we have a lot of national and international media left, it was shooting changed him. stats of Stoneman Douglas haters.” up to local reporters to stay with the story “This was a story where there was no it looked like the safest school in the state With the anniversary approaching so too and hold those in power accountable. moving on,” he said. because every incident whether it was come the reminders of denial. There are “The Sun Sentinel put in a lot of time, Emotion, Travis said, is often lacking in guns, bullying, or trespassing, whatever, it people who float theories that Parkland was experience and manpower,” said Rupert. journalists who have death, destruction, would look like zero and it would look like staged and carried out by “crisis actors.” “I don’t know how they did it because they illness, and mishaps as daily assignments. everyone wanted to go there because this is a These conspiracy theorists are part of the were certainly getting quite thin. It was truly Parkland put a pause on the easy dismissal of safe school,” Travis said. “It turned out to all QAnon cult, promoted by the likes of newly a remarkable effort by the Sun Sentinel and bad news. be a lie because we were able to get copies of elected Congresswoman Marjorie Taylor for Scott because he led their reporting.” Greene of Georgia. A video recently surfaced As for his future, Travis said he misses showing Greene harassing Parkland survivor the newsroom. The COVID-19 pandemic David Hogg outside the U.S. Capitol building. required the Sun Sentinel to go remote. Greene has also called Hogg, now 20, a Travis, 50, is single and lives in Delray Beach. “coward,” “idiot” and “trained dog.” He enjoys singing karaoke, performing in “It’s horrible,” Travis said. “I covered a community theatre and is occasionally professor at FAU who was a Sandy Hook mistaken on Twitter for the hip-hop rapper denier. To see somebody do that really Travis Scott. angers me because it totally disregards the “It’s a little lonely, we’ve been remote since pain and the grief that so many people are the pandemic,” he said. “I like not having to having to go through. There’s nothing fake dress up and work from my couch, miss being about what happened. These people clearly around other reporters and collaboration died. I don’t understand why they do that. that goes on and the camaraderie that I don’t know what they get out of it. It just goes on. Reporters are sort of my people, seems like a mental illness when people start probably more so than gay people are. Being to say stuff like that.” a journalist is in my DNA.” Parkland, Travis said, was a wake-up call Ironically, the Parkland school is named for the system and some of the participants, in honor of award-winning journalist, like Hogg, Emma Gonzalez and Fred conservationist and woman’s suffrage Guttenberg, have become well-known advocate Marjory Stoneman Douglas. advocates for gun control and red flag laws. “I think it’s important to remember that as The tragedy also propelled conservative journalists we’re human too and we feel hurt figures like Andrew Pollack, whose daughter and suffering too,” Travis said. A memorial in Parkland. Photo courtesy of Scott Travis.

2.11.2021 • 11 LGBTQIA BITES BY KENDALL LITTLE IT’S NOT ALWAYS ABOUT THE G ... HERE’S WHAT ELSE IS HAPPENING IN THE LGBTQIA COMMUNITY Transgender T B Bisexual FORMER WWE WRESTLER BI ACTRESS NOMINATED COMES OUT AS TRANS FOR GOLDEN GLOBE

Retired WWE wrestler Gabbi Tuft, Sarah Paulson, best known for her work formerly known as Tyler Reks in the ring, in “American Horror Story,” has been has come out as transgender in an emotional nominated for a Golden Globe this year Instagram post. for her role in “Ratched.” She reflected on her journey saying, “The Paulson plays a young nurse named previous eight months have been some of Mildred Ratched who uses manipulation the darkest of my entire life. The emotional to gain power at the hospital that her turmoil of being transgender and having brother is locked up at. Ratched also to face the world has almost ended me on explores her sexuality throughout the multiple occasions.” first season, realizing that she is attracted Even though accepting herself has been to other women. difficult, Tuft says that she loves who she is. Gabbi Tuft. Photo via Instagram. In its first 28 days on Netflix “Ratched” “I am no longer afraid and I am no longer was watched by 48 million Netflix users, fearful. I can now say with confidence, that I accepting yourself is ignoring what others which made it the most successful season love myself for WHO I am,” she said. may say. 1 Netflix original for the year 2020. Tuft says that her family has been by her “The day I stopped caring about what The Golden Globes nominated Paulson Sarah Paulson. Photo via Facebook. side throughout her transition and that she other people thought was the day I truly for her leading role in the drama series is eternally grateful for them. became limitless and allowed my authentic along with Olivia Colman, Jodie Comer, The five women were nominated for Best She said that the key to coming out and self to come into the light,” Tuft said. Emma Corrin, and Laura Linney. Television Actress — Drama Series.

12 • 2.11.2021 LGBTQIA BITES L Lesbian NEW AMERICAN GIRL DOLL HAS LESBIAN AUNTS

This year’s American Girl Doll of the Year, Kira Bailey, has brought controversy for an unusual reason — she has lesbian aunts. The book that comes with the doll, titled “Kira Down Under,” explains that Kira travels to Australia to visit her aunts’ wildlife sanctuary. PinkNews says that “the book casually mentions that the two women got married after the law was changed to allow it.” This is the first time that there has been LGBT representation within the brand and “Kira Bailey.” Credit: American Girl. it has received mixed reviews. One Twitter user said, “AMERICAN company to scrap an LGBT storyline tied and GIRL DOLL MADE LESBIAN DOLLS IM SO to its 2021 Girl of the Year doll, urging the HAPPY IM BUYING ONE AAHHHH.” company to remain neutral in what they Another Twitter user said, “Wait how call a ‘culture war,’” says the Christian Post. do I buy this American girl doll with the Their reasoning? “As Christians, we lesbian aunts for my niece????” know that even though something is However, not all the reactions were as legalized doesn’t make it moral or right,” pleasant. said One Million Moms. “Over 20,000 people have backed an As of now, American Girl has not online petition asking The American Girl responded to the petition.

2.11.2021 • 13 NEWS LOCAL GAY MAN RECOVERING AFTER HIT-AND-RUN INCIDENT IN FORT LAUDERDALE

Christiana Lilly

lmost a month after being hit by a car and left on the side of the road, Matt AMasters is still recovering from his injuries — and wants to know who did it. “I just remember the headlights and the revving engine. I just couldn’t believe it, it just came out of nowhere,” he remembers. In the early morning hours of Jan. 16, Masters was walking his bicycle through a crosswalk after having dinner with friends. As he goes through the crosswalk at Northwest 16th Street and Northwest Seventh Avenue, a car sped through a stop sign and the crosswalk, sending Masters flying into the air and landing by the sidewalk. The car did not slow down or stop, and another car traveling at a high speed followed behind him. According to surveillance footage recovered by the Fort Lauderdale Police Department Matthew Masters. Screenshot via and shared with SFGN, Masters is seen slowly WPLG Local 10, YouTube. rolling closer to the sidewalk, as if to get away from the road. He says he doesn’t remember project manager for a construction company, anything after being hit — he’s not sure if he he hasn’t been able to go to site visits and blacked out or was in shock. His bicycle was does what he can working from home. cracked and bent, landing about 20 feet away “This case is currently listed as inactive,” from him. Fort Lauderdale Det. Ali Adamson said in a “I’m lucky I’m not dead,” he said. “I thought statement to SFGN. “At this time, all available I was unconscious, but from the video, I think leads have been exhausted and the case will I was more in shock. I wasn’t coherent of remain inactive pending any new follow-up where I was.” information.” Luckily, about 10 minutes later, a waste According to the police report, based on the management employee drove past and pieces of the car left behind, the vehicle was a stopped to check on Masters. He called the black Nissan. police, who arrived minutes later. Emergency “I explained to [Masters] that without medical services arrived and took him to something further to follow up on, this Broward Medical Center, where doctors investigation is complete,” the report reads. worked on his fractured pelvis, lacerations on Masters said he hopes the driver is found his knees, legs and on his side. He was given and “doesn’t hurt anybody else.” Just two stitches and sent home a few hours later. days before Masters was injured, a 59-year- However, it seemed he was released too old woman was killed in a hit and run quickly. Later that afternoon while recovering accident about 3 miles away in Oakland Park. at a friend’s home, he passed out on the lawn The Broward Sheriff’s Office hosted a press from the pain. He was taken to Coral Springs conference with the late woman’s daughter, Medical Center the next day. who asked for the driver to come forward. Today, Masters is undergoing physical “I would like to see something done about therapy twice a week with a home health aide. pedestrian-friendly roads and cracking He gets around using crutches and a walker, or down on speeding so nobody else gets hurt,” if he has further to go, he uses a wheelchair. A Masters said.

If you have any information, contact Broward Crime Stoppers at 954-493-TIPS (8477) or online at browardcrimestoppers.org.

14 • 2.11.2021 INT’L CONDOM DAY

SCAN FOR TICKETS

2.11.2021 • 15 NEWS LOCAL LATINOS SALUD ANNUAL GALA GOES VIRTUAL — WITH A TWIST John Hayden Photos courtesy of Latinos Salud.

or now, if you want to party, you need to bring the party to you. Latinos Salud is doing just that with their annual gala. FUsually the fun affair brings the South Florida community together in a huge ballroom with engaging hosts, eye-popping entertainment, and lots of surprises. The same is happening with this year’s event, minus the huge ballroom.

On Feb. 27, Latinos Salud will present From Social Bubbles to Community: A “Blended” Gala. Executive Director Stephen Fallon told SFGN that the virtual party will be nothing like the virtual events we’ve gotten used to over the past year. “While we won’t be able to dance and dine together in the same venue, this Gala will stand out from the screen-staring affairs that have turned viewers into Zoom-zombies. Latinos Salud’s Gala will innovate, by breaking through the virtual wall, and turning the camera around to share all the fun from safe watch parties taking place all over the region.” Latinos Salud wants everyone to organize small, safe parties at home. They will provide the party atmosphere. Before the event, a Benefit In A Box will appear at your place. Inside will be everything you need to feel the social connection we’re all missing these days. What’s inside the Benefit In A Box depends on what you sign up for. Like all good galas, you need a ticket. “Freemium” tickets get you online access to all the action and a box. Premium level features early access to the silent auction (and the ability to “buy it now”) and you may get to be featured on the gala’s feed. That means you need to be ready to strut your stuff and make a little noise. If you want to go big and be a VIP, you get all that plus the VIP Benefit In A Box, with supplies for up to four people. From the ticket upgrades to the silent auction to donations made during the party, the money is worth it. Latinos Salud has consistently LATINOS served the community despite the challenges and dangers posed by the SALUD HAS COVID-19 crisis. In fact, Fallon said they’ve done even more. “Latinos Salud stayed entirely open for all individual level services CONSISTENTLY during the pandemic. Because we were absorbing community members SERVED THE who found their usual place of service closed, we actually served more community members in 2020 than ever before, with over 5,500 HIV COMMUNITY tests, among other services.” DESPITE THE Once you join the party, which starts at 7 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 27, you’ll CHALLENGES barely be able to keep up. Videos from the community, along with live feeds from fellow partiers will hit the screen, along with surprise guest AND DANGERS artists. POSED BY THE COVID-19 For up-to-the-minute details and to register for tickets, CRISIS. visit their website, LatinosSalud.org

16 • 2.11.2021 THE GAZETTE VOLUME 8 • ISSUE 3 FEBRUARY 11, 2021 Wilton Manors & Oakland Park FACEBOOK.COM/GROUPS/WMGAZETTE

WILTON MANORS COMMUNITY Healing — One Brush Stroke At A Time Wilton Manors Parkland mural gets a much needed facelift

By John Hayden

It’s been three years since the school be expressed in a creative way instead of having shooting at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High those emotions push down inside. And when School (MSD) in Parkland. While the shock has they placed the tiles together, it was almost slowly faded, the pain remains for the survivors, electric.” the families of victims, and the South Florida This turned out to be a positive first step, but community. Now a place dedicated to healing, due to the scope of the tragedy, Dr. Busciolano reflection, and peace in Wilton knew more had to be done and Manors is getting some TLC, took a leap of faith. making sure it will be here for “... They could “I wanted more! And as I a long time to come. looked around I saw an empty The mural and MSD allow their raw wall in front of Lola’s Bazaar, Memorial Rock Garden outside emotions to be and without specific plan, Lola’s Bazaar Market was I called Evan Anthony, the created in the aftermath of the expressed in a owner, and said ‘Would you shooting. While many of the creative way instead give me that wall for the MSD student survivors made sure students?’” the world paid attention by of having those Anthony was happy to using their political leverage of provide the canvas. Now the the moment, others suffered in emotions push down project needed direction. Photo credit: Courtesy Dr. Julio Busciolano. silence. inside. And when Next Dr. Busciolano was Dr. Julio Busciolano is a able to meet Lauren Rosa, the setting up a booth at the bazaar, selling his From heavy rains to fading in the sun, South mental health therapist who they placed the tiles art teacher at MSD. Being able vinyl records. He watched as the students Florida weather is tough on outdoor art. worked with many of them, together, it was to work with someone who painted the eagle, then used portraits of the Viviana Werner, an MSD alum, started the and told SFGN about what he had an established physical victims to create their images on the wall. restoration, and is thankful to Kimberly Marie saw, and how he was inspired almost electric.” and emotional connection When you visit, you can’t help but be moved. from Holy Mackerel who donated the paint, to help them heal through art. - Dr. Julio Busciolano to the students helped bring Each picture is a lost member of our community, as well as the continued support from Wesley “I saw in these survivors everything together. memories kept alive by a community that cares Schultz and Evan Anthony at Lola’s Bazaar. an initial sense of confusion, “Meeting Lauren was a gift. and refuses to forget. Dr. Busciolano is glad the mural will continue related to PTSD symptoms: lack of sleep, An amazing and talented professional that “When you experience trauma, words are to be here for others. tendency to isolate, flashbacks, panic with led the project every weekend,” he said. “But insufficient,” he said. “Positive change happens “Throughout these three years I’ve seen noises, etc.,” he said. “Above all a sense of by the end of July she had to leave for her new when human beings can express themselves people stopping by and crying, praying, getting disconnection with self and others.” job at the Department of Defense in Tokyo. It through artwork, reframing feelings and I angry, struggling to make sense, and families In the days after the shooting, students were was difficult for the young artists but they were believe, mostly in this case, they produce a talking to their children,” he said. “A powerful given tiles and encouraged to express their resilient and continued to come on their own.” deliberate response to an experience.” moment: the day when a Sandy-Hook survivor feelings through art. Even though he isn’t a trained artist, Dr. Now, to mark the three year anniversary, the joined an MSD survivor at the mural and held “So they could allow their raw emotions to Busciolano stayed close to the project by mural is getting some much needed upkeep. hands.”

www.WMGAZETTE.com 2.11.2021 • 17 Still More to Give

WILTON MANORS OPINION THE Red Dot Technology is Not GAZETTE February 11, 2021 • Volume 8 • Issue 3 2520 N. Dixie Highway • Wilton Manors, FL 33305 Phone: 954-530-4970 Fax: 954-530-7943 the Best Use of Resources Publisher • Norm Kent [email protected] Associate publisher / Executive Editor • Preventing and deterring crime is a justified use of funds but there Jason Parsley [email protected] are other technologies that are more suited for the Island City Webmaster • Kimberly Swan [email protected] By Sal Torre Editorial Art Director • Brendon Lies [email protected] In a city the size of Wilton Manors, with Oakland Park Editor • Christiana Lilly limitations on funding for lofty ideas, the Wilton Manors Editor • John McDonald watchdog function of our City Commission Correspondents to question certain projects is ever more Christiana Lilly• Sal Torre • James Oaksun important. Unfortunately our City Commission Staff Photographers missed an opportunity this week to exercise this J.R. Davis • Carina Mask • Steven Shires important function of our local government. Sales & Marketing The Wilton Manors Police Department requested City Commission approval for the For ad placement in the Wilton Manors Gazette, use of funding from the State Forfeiture Fund contact 954-530-4970 to purchase what is called Red Dot technology Photo via Adobe. Sales Manager • Justin Wyse for patrol firearms. This technology retrofits [email protected] firearms with the ability to project a red dot to improve the accuracy, safety and efficiency Advertising Sales Associate • Edwin Neimann and to public safety. Many other crime with such technology just does not carry any [email protected] when a patrol officer needs to discharge their prevention methods could also have been paid merit, especially when you look at what such a firearm in the line of duty. for utilizing this funding source. Unfortunately program achieves. On the surface such technology sounds limited resources will now go to the purchase of Compare this to the purchase of much Accounting Services by CG Bookkeeping wonderful and useful. In reality here in Red Dot technology for patrol firearms. needed crime prevention technology which Wilton Manors, some might think this is as an I welcome the difference of opinions and the have measured success rates in the reduction South Florida Gay News is published weekly. The opinions expressed in columns, stories, and letters to the editor do not unnecessary expense, especially when other factual debate when arguing the pros and cons of criminal activity within a city’s boundaries represent the opinions of SFGN, or the Publisher. You should much-needed crime prevention technology and of certain projects before our City Commission. along with the increased apprehension of not presume the sexual orientation of individuals based on their names or pictorial representations. FurthermoreMEMBER the word “gay” in equipment are monetarily out of reach for our However, I was somewhat put off by the criminals looking to target residents, their SFGN should be interpreted to be inclusive of the entire LGBT small city. disingenuous response by police hierarchy in a homes and their vehicles. community. All of the material/columns that appears in print and online, including articles used in conjunction with the AP, is Use of State Forfeiture Funds response to City Commission To me the choice is clear. protected under federal copyright and intellectual property laws, are governed by state statute, inquiry on the need for such In a perfect world, where money is no object, and is jealously guarded by the newspaper. Nothing published may be reprinted in whole or part withoutMEMBER getting written consent which specifically states funds The need to equip Red Dot technology. and we can all have everything we want — then from the Publisher, at his law office, at [email protected]. be utilized for crime prevention, The response sited the recent perhaps we might be able to justify the cost and SFGN, as a private corporation, reserves the right to enforce its own standards regarding the suitability of advertising copy, safe neighborhoods, drug all our patrol killing of the FBI agents in the required training hours needed for Red Dot illustrations and photographs. abuse education and drug officers with City of Sunrise as a need for technology here in our small city. Unfortunately prevention programs. any technology that brings our we do not live in such a world and tough AssociatedMEMBER Press One would need to stretch such technology uniformed officers home safely decisions have to made every day on how best to the scope of this program to just does not to their families at night. use limited resources. This week, in my opinion, include Red Dot technology for The use of Red Dot our City Commission failed to make those tough firearms, along with the cost of carry any merit, technology would have done choices. MEMBER many hours of specific training nothing to save the lives of Being the eternal optimist that I am, I await Copyright © 2021 South Florida Gay News.com, Inc. of personnel, as a needed especially when those FBI agents. Perhaps laws promises from police brass that they have a program that represents the you look at what that prevent criminals from plan for the purchase of much demanded and best usage of such funding. purchasing armor piercing needed crime prevention technology such as Many in our community such a program bullets and having stricter gun the license plate scanners. Hopefully we will see affected by the increase in achieves. purchasing laws might have them quicker than other long-promised items criminal activity can rest easier made a difference, but Red Dot that keep getting pushed back year after year tonight knowing that our police equipped firearms would not. due to budgetary restraints. patrols will now be equipped with Red Dot There is no doubt that such technology Sometimes you have to accept the decisions technology for firearms rarely discharged in the benefits specific areas of law enforcement. Swat of others who might not share the same point line of duty. teams, sharp shooters, special trained forces are of view. Hopefully our city leaders have made Some might argue that technology such as definite areas where such technology is needed the right choice and my doubts tonight are license plate readers might be a more effective and justified. Our city relies on those services over blown. The ability to have a difference of and needed technology for our local police from the Broward County Sheriff’s Office to my opinion, to be able to question, to express one’s department. Criminals entering our city in a knowledge. doubts and beliefs are all part of what makes life A brown anole. stolen vehicle pose a real threat to our residents The need to equip all our patrol officers in Wilton Manors just better here… Photo via Pixabay. www.WMGAZETTE.com

18 • 2.11.2021 2 • FEBRUARY 11, 2021 WILTON MANORS LETTER TO THE EDITOR Slow Down on NE 26th Street I’m writing to ask you to run a public service blurb, once again, to alert tourists and snowbirds, heading for the warm fun and frolics of Wilton Manors, about the speed trap on NE 26th Street, perpetrating as a school zone. They will be looking to SFGN for information on what’s happening in the neighborhood and my hope is that, with your help, they’ll be patronizing local businesses rather than being forced to give inordinate amounts of money to the city. Despite poor markings and police just waiting to hugely capitalize on the situation, Photo via Adobe. tickets are issued when no students, buses or significant indications of a school building’s 26th Street, between Andrews Avenue and NE existence are in evidence. 6th Street. I’ve written to Vice Mayor Tom Green, Thanks! asking for improvements, and got no response. So, please be sure your readers know that they Steven Wilkinson should go less than 15 miles per hour on NE Stoughton, Massachusetts

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3 • FEBRUARY 11, 2021 2.11.2021 • 19 WILTON MANORS COMMUNITY WILTON MANORS GUEST COLUMN Wilton Manors After 44 Years Planning To Rein In Still More to Give By Paul O’Connell

Short-Term Rentals On April 2 I will retire from the Wilton Manors Police Department. By John McDonald It has been my privilege to serve as your Chief of Police for the past 10 years. My service Wilton Manors approved its legislative to the Wilton Manors community truly has action plan at Tuesday night’s commission been the highlight of my 44-year career in meeting with short-term rentals at the top of law enforcement. Gratitude only begins the list. to describe the feelings that I have for this Commissioners voted unanimously to experience and this community! When I support collaboration with the Florida think of our police department I think of one Department of Business and Professional word: family. Regulation to rein in short-term rental When I started in 2011 I changed our properties. Mission Statement to read as follows: Peter Nasca, a 12-year resident of the city, spoke against short-term rentals during POLICING WITH PASSION FOR OUR the public comments portion of the virtual PROFESSION AND COMPASSION FOR Zoom meeting. Nasca specifically singled THOSE WE SERVE out Airbnb, the San Francisco-based online lodging company. This mission statement was embedded into “What my wife and I are deeply concerned every aspect of our law enforcement work, about is a proliferation of Airbnb homes,” said especially as we trained our new hires. I Nasca, adding that three Airbnb homes are on know each member of our team, regardless his block with another likely on the way. of assignment, carries in their heart this “This is getting out of control,” Nasca said. policing philosophy. In a very real sense Police Chief Paul O’Connell. Nasca said with Airbnbs come noisy police officers throughout our country Photo credit: City of Wilton Manors. incidents and excess garbage. He carry the mission eloquently summarized recommended the city put a 30-day limit on in the words of Senator Ted Kennedy Please know that a central component Airbnb stays. (paraphrased) when, in June 1968, he of planning my exit is to ensure your Police “We gotta do something stated in his eulogy for his brother, Bobby: Department is in good hands with a strong Photo credit: Hector Falcon, about this,” Nasca said. “We foundation which entails strong ethics, steel via PxHere. don’t want Wilton Manors “To see wrong and try to right it; to see courage and visionary leadership. I assure to become an upscale flop “We gotta suffering and try to heal it; to see war (on you these traits are in place and ready to steer house.” do something could ruin the neighborhood. our streets) and try to stop it.” our ship into the future; steady Wilton Manors’ legislative about this,” “I moved here because I and true. action plan supports proper loved knowing my neighbors,” My friends, these words are I ask that As I take my final bow licensing, insurance and Nasca said. Newton said. “I don’t know the story of us, of who we are, allow me to use a quote from industry-accepted safety them anymore. Every week of what we do and why we do you rise with Ellen Goodman (final column, practices regarding short- “We don’t want there’s new people there.” it. We are the “guardians at 1/02/2010, Washington Post): term rentals. The city also Wilton Manors Newton said the short-term the gate” who are called upon me above the “I am told that there is a trick to supports legislation clarifying rental market is more concerned in moments of danger and distant noise and a graceful exit. It begins with that existing grandfathered to become an about money than people. The in times of grief. The media the vision to recognize when a municipal short-term rental upscale flop mayor went on to say he knows and some on our streets try to confusion and job, a life stage, a relationship ordinances can be amended of better behavior from halfway define us by the misdeeds of a is complete — and letting go. without penalty. house.” houses than short-term rentals. few. I will always define us by acknowledge It means leaving what is over “I’m certainly a big fan of “It disrupts the nice quiet the bravery of the many. the many acts without denying its validity cracking down on problem - Peter Nasca neighborhood,” Newton said. I ask that you rise with me or its importance in life. It vacation rentals,” said 12-year Resident Other legislative action above the distant noise and of courage and involves a sense of future and Commissioner Chris Caputo. items include the importance confusion and acknowledge a sense that for every exit Caputo said the city has of home rule, water quality the many acts of courage and kindness by our there is an entry.” software that can detect if vacation rentals improvements and alternative water supply kindness by our police officers. police officers. So, as I enter “retirement” I are operating unregulated and asked if city development, climate change strategies Winston Churchill was correct have been asked by friends, management could provide an update on and natural resource protection strategies, when he stated, “Making a “What will you do”? My violations at the next meeting. expansion of affordable broadband internet living is what you get. Making a life is what answer; I will do MORE because my search Mayor Scott Newton voiced his frustration access, cybersecurity enhancements, you give.” These words truly define our for social justice is a journey that has not yet with short-term rentals, saying there are three transportation funding, affordable housing profession and those who wear our badge of ended. Indeed, after 44 years I still have more on his street and if the trend continues it and sales tax fairness. honor. to give!

www.WMGAZETTE.com

20 • 2.11.2021 4 • FEBRUARY 11, 2021 5 • FEBRUARY 11, 2021 2.11.2021 • 21 WILTON MANORS COMMUNITY Defaced Mural Angers Artist and Locals A new mural will be painted in its place

By Christiana Lilly

t was the evening of Jan. 22 when artist Nara Rosa got a call that her mural had been defaced. A wall located at The Yard Iin Wilton Manors, what was once filled with paisley and floral prints was now covered over with silver bubble letters.

“I was speechless when I got the message,” year, a new life for everybody because of this Rosa said. pandemic, it’s time to change and life is like A man with a bag of spray paint cans came that. Sometimes you have bad stuff that you onto the property and started painting over her have to deal with,” she said. “I said, ‘I’m going work. When approached by management, he to repaint another one,’ and I’m glad I have said he thought it was an open wall — he was that inspiration to do that in this life. Problems asked to leave the property. appear and disappear and that’s it. It is in our But Rosa is as bubbly and optimistic as her mind to start over.” artwork. She took it as a sign that with the new The Yard, previously known year, she’s due for a new project. For the last as Eucalyptus Gardens, is week, she’s been back at it, creating two brand- owned and operated by Lazy new murals at The Yard. The artist is using her Lake Mayor Evan Anthony. The signature bright colors, flowers, and this time village is a collection of shops, is incorporating a rainbow into the piece. including a wine bar, farmers “I stopped and said, you know, it’s a new market, coffee shop, a clothing The Yard owner and Lazy Lake Mayor Evan Anthony paints over the store in a silver Airstream, vandalism on Nara Rosa’s mural. Photo courtesy of Nara Rosa. and the popular concrete “PROBLEMS walls that have been painted over with stunning artistry. APPEAR AND what were you thinking?’” asking the public if they knew who he was and There’s Frida Kahlo, a pink Anthony recounted. “I don’t to hold him accountable for painting over the spoonbill traipsing through DISAPPEAR even know what it says mural. water, a whimsical mandala, because I was so irate that The mural went up two years ago, a splash a tribute to the students killed AND THAT’S I asked them to leave the of bright paisley prints and flowers. Rosa at Marjory Stoneman Douglas property and the police came.” said it was inspired by psychedelic imagery High School, and more. IT. IT IS IN Wilton Manors Police from her “hippie times.” In the two months it That was before an created an incident report took her to complete the mural, she said she unknown man came onto the OUR MIND TO and told Anthony that they woke up every day excited to go back to The property the evening of Jan. 22 should put up signs to let the Yard to continue working on it. When it was and started spray painting over START OVER.” public know that the walls are completed, it became a popular, Instagram- Rosa’s work. Wesley Schultz, private. Since the vandalism, worthy backdrop for visitors. the manager of Lola’s Bazaar - Nara Rosa they have installed the signs. “I got lots of emails, a lot of Facebook at The Yard, caught him and LOCAL ARTIST “This guy just goes in there, messages,” Rosa said. “I have a lot of people called Anthony to come over. brazen, and paints right over,” who support me.” The man said he was doing an Anthony said. “If you’re an Rosa hopes to finish the mural before her advertisement and he thought it was an open artist — [he] told me [he’s] an artist — you birthday in March, when she hopes to have a wall. don’t do that. It’s a known fact.” glass of wine with a few friends in front of the “I said, ‘No you’re totally mistaken. You have A photo of the man who painted over the mural Photos were taken of the man and the finished piece. at The Yard. Photo courtesy of Nara Rosa. no authority to be here and you just desecrated vandalism, which Schultz and Rosa shared “It will be my own birthday gift to myself,” somebody’s hard, three months of painting, on social media. People spread the message, she laughed.

22 • 2.11.2021 6 • FEBRUARY 11, 2021 WILTON MANORS GUEST COLUMN QuickBooks Bookkeeping

Wilton Manors May Have • Retail • A/R, A/P, Financials • Restaurant • Monthly Reconciliations • Landscape • Quarterly Reviews 99 Problems, But Code • Professional Office • Payroll Services • Individuals • Sales Tax Filings Doug Turner EA, CPB Best Books & Taxes, LLC Compliance Is Probably #1 QuickBooks Advanced ProAdvisor 1881 NE 26th Street, Suite 202 bestbooksandtaxes.com Wilton Manors, FL 33305 By Chris Caputo Photo via the Wilton Manors Police Department, Facebook. Many residents in Wilton Manors received 954-565-1041 a legislative action alert request directly from the City, encouraging them to email their State Representatives with the statement that IM EHRMAN TTORNEY “short-term vacation rentals are bringing down K L , A property values, and in many cases, forcing I believe that good people deserve residents to put their home on the market.” This statement, sent from the city, does not a fresh start. reflect my values and beliefs as commissioner nor is it a factually accurate statement. (954) 385-3330 The goal of the legislative action alert was • 20+ Years South Florida Bankruptcy Experience to help convince our state representatives to support cities rights to regulate short-term • Personalized And Caring Service vacation rentals. I am a huge fan of keeping • Call For A Free Consultation the right to govern locally (home rule) and I • Ofﬁ ce located at Fed Hwy and NE 26th Street in firmly believe our city should have the right to Ft Lauderdale regulate what happens in our community. cities who pay employees more for the same I am, also, firmly against making inaccurate or less work.) statements about the effect of short-term This problem is manifesting not just in terms www.LehrmanLaw.com vacation rentals. Multiple studies have of short-term rentals, but for many different shown that vacation rentals are increasing types of code complaints as well. property values in our city and serve a key As a city, we need to work as efficiently as role in supporting LGBT tourism and our local possible to solve the problem for insufficient Celebrating our 11th Smile...and business community. code enforcement in our city. There are about Year on Wilton Drive! the whole It is important to know that state law currently a dozen vacation rental property owners in prevents us from banning vacation rentals. our city who are threatening the reputation New Patients world That’s an important basis for any conversation. for the community as a whole. We need code Also, know that I am firmly against problem compliance to rapidly begin fining these smiles vacation rentals in our community as well as problem property owners, and we need those back. an outspoken ambassador for properly run fines to escalate rapidly for repeated offenses so $69 vacation rentals. we can weed out the problem property owners. ($312 Value) There are countless vacation rentals that We also need our police force to be capable don’t allow fast turnovers and excessive guests of responding to noise violation complaints — Comprehensive Exam, (which can lead to unacceptable parties!) in whether they involve a short-term rental or a Digital X-Rays & favor of encouraging longer stays with a smaller resident exhibiting bad behavior — and be able Cleaning* number of guests. to turn that into a code violation without the *In the absense of gum disease. As city commissioner, I am here to accept onus being on our residents to come in and file Not applicable to insurance benefits. responsibility for the problem as I recognize more paperwork. it. Our Code Compliance department is not Our slow, ineffective delivery of code yet as effective as it needs to be. This isn’t the violations is threatening this key economic fault of our existing code compliance staff — driver keeping our city alive during COVID-19. they are working tirelessly and passionately A dozen bad apples, or less, who own short- General & Cosmetic Dentistry — but they are short-staffed. We lost Julio term rentals are putting all of our vacation Davila, our Code Compliance Supervisor, to a rentals at risk. We have to fix that. nearby city that paid more for a job with less State of the Art Facilities • Most Insurance Plans Accepted responsibilities. (One part of our problem as a — Chris Caputo Always Plenty of Free Parking • Located Conveniently on Wilton Drive city is that we continue to lose staff to nearby WILTON MANORS CITY COMMISSIONER

I invite your suggestions on how we can address problem vacation rentals in our city. 954-565-7666 You can reach me via email at [email protected]. Dr. David K. Warner, DDS, FAGD 1946 Wilton Drive • Wilton Manors • FL 33305

www.WMGAZETTE.com www.IslandCitySmiles.com

7 • FEBRUARY 11, 2021 2.11.2021 • 23 NEWS LOCAL

OF J.R.’s SNAPSHOTS THE WEEK From your life... into our pages! SFGN takes a special look at a community that has stood together through countless trials and victories in the past year alone. Photos by J.R. Davis

Hair By Victor Owner Victor Alarcon Owner of Gym Sports Bar Rick Schmutzler with with husband Albert Dastoli. Joe Chapin the GM.

Newly engaged Olympic boxer Orlando Cruz with Worthington Alcazar Resorts Owner Jim Durhan with his partner Kell Wynn. GM Dean Harberts and manager Dennis Wurch.

24 • 2.11.2021 LIGHT NSU Art Museum Fort Lauderdale THE NIGHT

MARCH 1-7 Spectacular 3D Video Displays Lighting Up Downtown Fort Lauderdale

For locations and details visit ArtsCalendar.com/LighttheNight Free and open to the public with social distancing maintained

Light The Night is presented by Broward Cultural Division

#LightTheNightBroward @BrowardArts

2.11.2021 • 25 NEWS LOCAL LGBT PROTECTIONS ENHANCED FLORIDA COMMISSION EMBRACES NEW DEM DIRECTION

Steve Rothaus X Special to SFGN

Monica Cepero, Broward’s deputy county administrator and a former SAVE LGBTQ board member. Photo courtesy of Monica Cepero.

26 • 2.11.2021 NEWS LOCAL

spotlight on the state of Florida,” Smith said. Smith and SAVE LGBTQ Executive Director Miami civil rights lawyer hopes his client — a butch lesbian Orlando Gonzales both say, however, it’s still evicted from her rental at a North Bay Village condominium necessary for Florida to pass a law that fully — is among the first vindicated through a recent decision protects queer people. A “The statewide nondiscrimination bill by the Florida Commission on Human Relations. is still very relevant,” said Gonzales, who describes the commission’s vote as “a tremendous milestone in the movement for “Civil rights laws in Florida have to mirror to prove gender nonconformance?” equality and equity.” the interpretation of federal civil rights laws,” Now, Dietz won’t have to. Since the court “But it is important that Florida law said attorney Matthew Dietz, who represents case is still ongoing, Dietz plans to update the is codified with the upcoming, hopeful, plaintiff Vanesa Daschuta. “My client was complaint to say Daschuta was discriminated passage of an equality act,” he added. essentially pushed out of her condo that she against because of her sexual orientation. In 1969, the Florida Legislature created the was renting.” “The most important thing is that people Florida Commission on Human Relations The U.S. Supreme Court last June ruled 6-3 understand they have the right to seek justice “to enforce the Florida Civil Rights Act that Title VII of the 1964 Civil Rights Act — and they can actually use the mechanism in and address discrimination issues through which bans most workplace discrimination place to safeguard their civil rights,” said education, outreach and partnerships,” on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, or Nadine Smith, executive director of Equality according to the FCHR website. “The Nadine Smith, executive director of Equality Florida. national origin — also protects workers Florida, which has long lobbied for LGBT Commission has investigated and closed Photo courtesy of Equality Florida. from being fired on the basis of their sexual nondiscrimination protections. more than 74,000 cases and has negotiated orientations or gender identities. After the commission published its ruling close to $13 million in settlement amounts “The FCHR accepts claims of sex Using that court decision as a base, on Jan. 28, Smith described it as “a huge win for more than 1,500 people through its discrimination based on gender identity Florida’s appointed Commission on Human and cause for celebration statewide.” mediation services.” or sexual orientation for investigation in Relations (FCHR) voted in January that in “No matter where you live in the state of Last July, Gov. Ron DeSantis appointed employment and public accommodations this state you can’t discriminate against Florida, if you experience discrimination Monica Cepero, Broward’s deputy county complaints. Furthermore, the FCHR LGBT people in areas of workplace, public based on sexual orientation or gender administrator, to a four-year term on the investigates housing discrimination under accommodations and housing. identity, you have the right to pursue justice commission. the Florida Fair Housing Act and Title Daschuta first rented the 14th floor unit through Florida’s civil rights laws,” Smith Cepero, a former SAVE LGBTQ board VIII, based upon race, color, national in 2008. Her landlord “loved her,” Dietz said. member, says her appointment came “as an origin, religion, sex, familial status, and said, but after a 2012 change in condo board Smith said that since word got out about openly gay woman who got married to her disability. The FCHR is committed to leadership, she was “highly scrutinized, the commission decision, “We have heard partner, Zenaida Cepero, in 2019.” investigating housing violations based upon harassed, and threatened with electronic overwhelming praise from a bipartisan cadre At her second FCHR meeting sex discrimination due to communications for warnings of minor of legislators who have made the [Florida on Sept. 17, Cepero “brought non-conformity with gender violations,” according to a court filing. Competitive Workforce Act] the most co- forward an agenda item, “THIS IS A stereotypes.” Eventually, in 2015, “My client was sponsored issue in Tallahassee year after ‘Supreme Court Guidance on STORY THAT Also on Jan. 21, Cepero essentially pushed out,” Dietz said. Daschuta year,” adding that support from the business Sex Discrimination.’” introduced a motion proposing filed a complaint with the Human Relations community and local elected leaders “has Cepero said the commission IS SHINING A that Florida pass a version Commission and also sued in Miami-Dade been resounding.” had “a conversation about of California’s 2019 CROWN Circuit Court. That case still hasn’t been “This is a story that is shining a favorable Bostock and I wanted to make FAVORABLE (Create a Respectful and Open settled. sure that we were following SPOTLIGHT ON Workplace for Natural Hair) Act, Then in June 2020 came the Supreme the letter of the law and the which prohibits discrimination Court ruling, led by Trump-appointed guidance of the Supreme Court. THE STATE OF based on hair style or hair Justice Neil Gorsuch, that under Title VII, It was unanimously approved.” FLORIDA.” texture. Clayton County, Georgia, illegally fired At the Jan. 21 meeting — a “Society’s bias has resulted Gerald Bostock, a juvenile-court employee, day after newly inaugurated - Nadine Smith in unfair judgment and because he is gay. President Joe Biden issued EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF discrimination against Black EQUALITY FLORIDA Until Gorsuch and five fellow justices an executive order citing women based on hair texture ruled that the word “sex” in Title VII covers Bostock to prohibit LGBT and protective hairstyles sexual orientation and gender identity, discrimination in the workplace, healthcare, including braids, locs, and twists that are Dietz was unable to simply say Daschuta housing and other areas — the commission inherent to their race,” according to Dove was discriminated against because she’s a voted to “embrace, endorse and support soap and shampoo, which lobbied for the lesbian. the contents and protections of the Florida California law. Instead, he wrote in the court filing, Competitive Workforce Act,” a bill long “Discrimination of any sort is just Daschuta was singled out because her supported by Equality Florida and many unacceptable,” Cepero said. “Part of what this “appearance and mannerism are not typical businesses throughout the state that would commission does are outreach and education. with traditional female gender stereotypes.” prohibit discrimination on the basis of This is an important step. We want to make “We had to file it under gender sexual orientation and gender identity. sure that everyone in Florida is aware of the nonconformance because she didn’t dress The commission posted on its website: protections that are afforded to them.” like a typical woman from the Miami Beach area,” Dietz said. And “How do you prove Journalist Steve Rothaus covered LGBT issues for 22 years at the Miami Herald. that somebody looks like a lesbian in order The Supreme Court of Florida. Photo via Adobe.

2.11.2021 • 27 CONVICTIONS Off The Wall BLACK HISTORY MONTH GAME & LIFE CHANGERS Pier Angelo

taly in the late ‘60s was a 99.9% white milestone of cosmic proportion. Something insular Catholic country, the only that taught me and inspired me to look at life Iexposure to Black people was limited and my life in a different way. to a few Black soccer players peppering the During their medal ceremony in the richest teams in the league. Black Brazilians Olympic Stadium in Mexico City on October with exotic names like Jair, Amarildo, and 16, 1968, two African-American athletes, Nene. Fantastic athletes, untouchable gods. Tommie Smith and John Carlos, each raised In those days America was the gold a black-gloved fist during the playing of the standard. We were taught that America was, U.S. national anthem. While on the podium, and it was, the liberator who had saved us Smith and Carlos, who had won gold and from the scourge and horrors of Nazism and bronze medals respectively in the 200-meter that it was the dreamland of milk and honey. running event, turned to face the U.S. flag We believed its streets were covered with and then kept their hands raised until the gold and could do no wrong. We really didn’t anthem had finished. In addition, Smith, know anything about its past or present. Carlos, and Australian silver medalist Peter They were just better than us or anybody Norman all wore human-rights badges on else. I was just a repressed ignorant scared their jackets. gay boy. Until the 1968 Mexico City Olympic The two U.S. athletes received their Games opened my eyes and changed my medals shoe less, but wearing black socks, to world forever. represent Black poverty. Smith wore a black Sports were my escape and I was glued scarf around his neck to represent Black to the then still black and white screen pride, Carlos had his tracksuit top unzipped watching athletes from all over the world to show solidarity with all-blue-collar competing in a great variety of categories, workers in the U.S. and wore a necklace of always rooting for the Italians, but amazed beads which he described “were for those by all. And then something extraordinary individuals that were lynched, or killed and Gold medalist Tommie Smith (center) and bronze medalist John Carlos (right) showing the raised fist on the and unexpected happened. A game changer that no-one said a prayer for, that were hung podium at the 1968 Summer Olympics; both wear Olympic Project for Human Rights badges. Peter Norman that forever took my life to a different level. A and tarred.” (silver medalist, left) from Australia also wears an OPHR badge in solidarity. Public Domain. Smith and Carlos delivered the salute with heads bowed, a gesture which became front- Carlos were subject to abuse, ostracized by surrounding Colin Kaepernick when he page news around the world. As they left the white America, and they and their families took a knee during the national anthem to EVEN THOUGH I KNEW podium they were booed by the crowd. received death threats. draw attention to the treatment of African NOTHING OF THE BLACK Smith later said, “If I win, I am American, I had never seeing anything like that or Americans. not a Black American. But if I did something completely understood what it meant at that Colin Kaepernick sacrificed his career AMERICAN EXPERIENCE I bad, then they would say I am a Negro. We moment but somehow I knew that it was a for what he believed back in 2017 with a are Black and we are proud of being Black. courageous, inspirational gesture with great gesture that today has become the symbol of SOMEHOW FELT I RELATED Black America will understand what we did consequences. respect for the lives of the oppressed. TO THEM AND THEY tonight.” I will always be grateful to them. People History and life are a spider’s web in which And even though I knew nothing of the can change the world for the better and one never knows when certain threads cross WERE ALSO SPEAKING Black American experience I somehow felt I many pay a high price for doing it, and we are and become entangled together to form the related to them and they were also speaking still at it, we don’t have to go back in history destiny of people and even of a country’s TO ME, TELLING ME NOT to me, telling me not to be afraid anymore by much as we all witnessed the controversy history. TO BE AFRAID ANYMORE and to stand up for myself. I still have the famous picture of the event taken by Pier Angelo was born in Italy, moved to England at the age of 17 and learned AND TO STAND UP FOR photographer John Dominis. English at the Nelson School of English. He attended college and graduate school Smith and Carlos were largely ostracized in Manhattan. In 2009 he founded SFGN with Norm Kent. Now he’s retired with his MYSELF. by the U.S. sporting establishment and they husband Tom and his Affenpinscher Cabbage. He still enjoys writing his column Off were subject to criticism. Both Smith and The Wall for SFGN.

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2.11.2021 • 29 LIFESTYLE TWO GUYS AND A DOG LEARNING TO SAY NOTHING Brian McNaught Photo via PxHere.

he secret to a happy marriage, said Ruth Bader Ginsburg, is sometimes being a little deaf. I’d add it’s also important Tto sometimes be a little mute. As one of my mentors used to muse, “Wisdom is knowing what to overlook.” This is true not just in happy marriages but in all successful interactions, be it with family members, neighbors, other drivers, and people at the deli counter. Some things, of course, can’t and shouldn’t be blocked out, and many times something must be said, but in order to create an environment that allows for my optimum awareness and satisfaction in life, I need to carefully choose what requires my attention, and what to overlook. My husband, Ray, and I daily decide how we’ll interact with the other. At our best, we’re mutually attentive, respectful, patient, supportive, kind, thoughtful, and forgiving, but, neither of us are always at our best. Why not? Maybe we didn’t sleep well, or we’re hungry, or we don’t feel good. If one of us is off, the other usually rises to the occasion, and plays deaf, or mute. If we’re both off, there’s a much greater risk of conflict. “This isn’t you who’s talking,” Ray, on occasion, has said to me. That means EVERY PERSON my current behavior is unlike the me he WHO HAS EVER knows and loves best. In those instances, I’ve given up trying to be in control of LIVED HAS FACED what I say, or how I say it. For Ray to call DAILY DECISIONS me on it, means that he’s given up playing deaf. It happens, not just with each other, ABOUT HOW TO but also with all others. On occasion, we INTERACT WITH might choose not to vibrate at our highest level with family, neighbors, other drivers, THEMSELVES, and people in the deli line. THEIR LOVED “Will you give it a rest? It’s always the and everything that happens impacts others, isn’t the me who’s writing, at least not the me I aspire to be. same with you.” ONES, STRANGERS, including the dog at home, children listening in Every person who has ever lived has faced daily decisions “Is that your car alarm that’s been going AND PERCEIVED at the other end of the telephone conversation, about how to interact with themselves, their loved ones, on for the past ten minutes?” other neighbors, other drivers, and the butcher. strangers, and perceived enemies. Our intention to operate “Asshole.” Honk. Honk. ENEMIES. Oftentimes, I’ll take a good amount of time, out of love, and our skill in maneuvering through the “Wait your turn. I’m next in line.” and thought, composing a Facebook post that challenges to “happy marriages,” are impacted by any Our ability sometimes to be a little deaf expresses my strong feelings about current events, number of factors, including our childhood “normal,” role often corresponds with our age, and our experience. Many particularly in politics and in religion. I’ll read and re-read modeling, exposure to options, values, health, and age. of us have learned that nothing is gained by engaging every the post to make sure it says clearly, and thoughtfully, what Ray’s and my nephews and nieces tell us that our unappreciated comment or behavior. It’s exhausting to be too I want to say about the congresswoman from Georgia, the relationship has provided them a role model for being a vigilant about what’s right, what’s fair, what’s a slight, what’s senator from Kentucky, the governor of Florida, or the loving couple. They see in us a mutual respect and kindness annoying. There’s wisdom to some of the old adages, such archbishop in Detroit, and, then, I’ll click on the “delete” they want for themselves. It doesn’t happen without effort. as, “A happy wife means a happy life.” (What rhymes with button. It’s often a challenge to let go of what I’ve seen or heard, and “husband?”) I ultimately decide that nothing is to be gained by my to bite my tongue. But, the quality of my life, of my marriage, I choose to be a little deaf, and a little mute, in the world joining in the fray. People who know me can accurately have benefitted greatly from my, and Ray’s, self-control, for a variety of good reasons, first of which is that I aspire to assume how I must feel about bad behavior, but, the post just ideals, and wisdom to know what to overlook. always be my best self. Doing so is its own reward. Second, I don’t really know the other person’s story, and what’s going on for them at that time. Third, I don’t like how conflict impacts me. Horn honking doesn’t calm me. Arguing about who’s next Brian McNaught has been a leading educator on LGBTQ issues globally since 1974. He has made his in line takes away the joy of selecting what I want. many books and DVDs available for free at Brian-McNaught.com. The New York Times named him “The Also, I embrace the belief that we’re all connected, Godfather of gay diversity training.”

30 • 2.11.2021

DUE TO COVID-19, CLERGY ASK THAT YOU STAY SAFE AT HOME. PLEASE WATCH SERVICES ON Shabbat service FACEBOOK AND/OR ONLINE. FIND DETAILS ON Friday 8pm HOW TO WATCH ON OUR FACEBOOK PAGES on our AND WEBSITES. THANK YOU AND BE WELL! YouTube channel Congregation Etz Chaim 2038 N. Dixie Hwy, Wilton Manors, FL 33305, on the Pride Center campus www.EtzChaimFlorida.org / RSVP HERE: [email protected]

Church of Our Savior, MCC Join us for masked, socially distanced in person worship. 11 AM Sundays. Services also LIVE-streamed on Facebook 2011 s. Federal Hwy., and posted on website for safe at home viewing. Boynton Beach, FL 561-733-4000 “Love without judgement” www,churchofoursaviormcc.org Holy Angels

Until further notice: Due to the National Catholic Church 1436 NE 26th Street current COVID-19 pandemic, our SPIRITUALITY Wilton Manors. 33305 worship services are streamed on Facebook.com/HolyAngelsFL Facebook Live every Sunday at www.HolyAngelsFL.org 10 AM, rather than held at our church property. 954-633-2987 https://www.facebook.com/ SOUTHFLORIDAGAYNEWS.COM ChurchofOurSaviorMCC. Visit our A home for your spirit. web site for more details & updates. Mass Schedule: Sabado 6:00 PM misa en español • Sunday Mass at 11 AM in English • All are welcome!

A LITTLE BIT OF FAITH AND LISTINGS PRIDE

ALL ARE WELCOME

SFGN is here for you, no CONGREGATION CHURCH OF OUR SAVIOR, matter who — or what — ETZ CHAIM MCC keeps you going. Check 2038 N. Dixie Hwy (Pride Center Building Church of Our Savior, MCC out the Spirituality Section B), Wilton Manors 2011 S. Federal Hwy. Boynton Beach. 954-564-9232 - etzchaimflorida.org churchofoursaviormcc.org | 561-733-4000 each week to stay in touch [email protected] Sunday Service 10AM with your local religious Friday Night Shabbat Service 8p.m. LGBT community. The only TEMPLE BAT YAM requirement? Be yourself. HOLY ANGELS CATHOLIC 5151 NE 14th Ter COMMUNITY Fort Lauderdale, FL 33334 2917 NE 6th Avenue 954-928-0410 Wilton Manors Friday Night & Saturday Morning SEE MORE ONLINE AT 954-633-2987 - HolyAngelsFL.net Streaming Online at templebatyam.org Sunday Mass at 11AM SFGN.COM/TABLE/NEWS/RELIGION

2.11.2021 • 31 LIFESTYLE FOOD TWO OF HEARTS Rick Karlin

ove conquers all, even COVID fears, or so hope these area eateries and hotels offering special deals for lovebirds looking Lfor a break from self-quarantine. Of course, to ensure that you will be able to celebrate for many Valentine’s Days to come, observe all safety protocols while celebrating your special day.

Whether you prefer to dine out or take your shrimp. Also on offer throughout Valentine’s meal home, TOOJAY’S has your Valentine’s Day weekend is the La Rosa Margarita, Hiatus meal covered with a special “Sweetheart Blanco tequila with grapefruit, rose-infused Dinner for Too,” for $25.99, available through simple syrup, rose petal, and a sea salt rim. Sunday, Feb. 14. It includes a choice of two Chinese New Year occurs the same weekend soups or salads, two entrées, two non- as Valentine’s Day this year, so you can make alcoholic beverages that can be upgraded your celebration a two-for. HAKKASAN, to wine or beer for an additional $3 each, in Miami’s Fountainbleu, will mark 2021 and a choice of one dessert to share. Guests Lunar New Year with a celebratory menu. are required to present a coupon (available The Year of the Ox prix-fixe menu is available online) before ordering. through Monday, Feb. 15. The A margarita at Lona Cocina & Tequileria. The theme at BONA $108 per person menu includes Photo credit: Lona Cocina & Tequileria. NEW COOKBOOK OFFERS ITALIAN is “Be who you a series of traditional dishes are, love who you love.” CHINESE NEW to bring prosperity and luck. A TASTE OF MIAMI Among the menu specials YEAR OCCURS Dishes include quail blossom pairing dinner starts with a 45-minute- Taste of Miami, the much-anticipated COVID- are shrimp bisque, basil puff paired with a seafood long wine tasting followed by a four-course relief cookbook, is now available featuring 50 and tomato salad atop a THE SAME dumpling; crispy kumquat dinner, offered on Feb. 24 and March 10 for recipes provided by some of Miami’s favorite goat cheese crostini and chicken; steamed scallop and $64.90 per person. Or go east for a four- restaurants. Celebrity Chef Yisus from Univision osso bucco. Reservations WEEKEND AS braised abalone and roasted course sake tasting dinner on Thursday, Network donated his time to prepare each dish are required, call 954-565- duck fried rice. Feb. 25 for $64.90 per person (prices for on camera and assist in organizing the recipes. VALENTINE’S The hip and colorful book offers an array of 7222. SISTRUNK MARKETPLACE both dinners include gratuity, but not tax). Miami staples that people have come to know Seminole Casino DAY THIS YEAR, & BREWERY and SHADY Book online at sistrunkmarketplace.com/ and love. The recipes in the book are the most Coconut Creek will DISTILLERY are offeringvalentines. popular dishes that people order in Miami area celebrate Valentine’s Day SO YOU CAN Valentine’s Day romance How about a staycation? Special restaurants, such as the Cap’n Crunch pancakes with dining specials at two with many exciting offers Valentine’s Day weekend rates at Le Méridien from Eating House, green curried mussels by of its restaurants, as well MAKE YOUR including pairing dinners, Dania Beach start at $379 per night and Phuc Yea, lomo saltado from 33 Kitchen, rabo as live entertainment. The art workshops, food tastings, include a tequila flight for two upon arrival encendido from Finka Table & Tap, and Abuela’s ham & chorizo Cuban macaroni from Sergio’s property’s NYY STEAK CELEBRATION A and distillery tours with live from the hotel’s popular LA BIBLIOTECA DE Restaurant, among many others. Eateries that have will offer dinner features TWO-FOR. music. How about a tour of TEQUILA; an upgraded room with breakfast been struggling through this pandemic will receive from 4 to 10 p.m. with Shady Distillery to learn the for two; and a five-course dinner for two at 100% of the profits. A digital version is available Ellison & Co. performing in basics of distilling vodka and TORO. Holiday celebrants not staying at the for $24.99 and a hardcover for $34.99 at the Legends Lounge beginning at 6 p.m. 1ST rum? The experience includes a tasting of hotel can also enjoy the prix-fixe dinner for www.cookbook.miami. STREET DELI, serving from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m., two signature Shady cocktails accompanied $125 per couple. will offer special luxury dishes such as shrimp by light bites. Available Feb. 12-14 from bisque, filet mignon, and lobster ravioli. 6-7 p.m. for $20 person. Or take a tour of LONA COCINA & TEQUILERIA is Sistrunk Marketplace with a cocktail with HUNGRY FOR MORE?  VISIT SFGN.COM/FOOD! celebrating with several specialty dishes by tasting stops at EMPANADA BODEGA, Chef Jorge Gutierrez and a featured cocktail, NELLIES SOUTHERN, and OSOM available from Friday, Feb. 12 through Sunday, CREPES on Friday, Feb. 12 from 5-7 p.m. for Rick Karlin is SFGN’s food editor. Feb. 14. The featured entrée will be a Mexican- $53.10 per person + tax. If you’d prefer a full Visit SFGN.com/Food to read his previous reviews. Have a culinary tip to style surf and turf with filet mignon and garlic meal, there are two options. An Italian wine share? Email Rick at [email protected].

32 • 2.11.2021 Full Charge Bookkeeping Services

2.11.2021 • 33 A&E FILM REMEMBERING BILL ELD

David-Elijah Nahmod

ill Eld (1945-1986) is not well-remembered today, but long ago he was a popular model in gay magazines Band adult films. Eld’s career began in 1970, just a year after films carefully to create a mood. His films Stonewall. It was a time when being gay was had full dialogue and stood out from the rest. not considered acceptable by the majority Ross serves as onscreen host and narrator of mainstream society, yet Eld unashamedly as he shares the story of Eld’s life. Ross did his shed his clothes and had sex with men on homework. He connected with a nephew of camera. Sometimes referred to as “Big” Bill Eld’s, who gave his blessing to the production. Eld, he became well-known for the size of his “He loved it,” Ross said of the nephew in penis, for his physique, and for his beautiful an email interview. “We connected when I face. made Toby Ross and the 70s and stayed in Eld was a star at a time when there were touch. He is really into his own family tree few gay porn stars. But his star didn’t last, and takes pride in studying it.” and Eld came to an early and sad demise in Early in the film Ross talks to the nephew his early 40s. on the phone. The nephew offers some Now, Eld’s life and career are remembered background information on Eld’s family and in “Bill Eld: American Pop Culture Icon,” a his childhood, which humanizes him. He new feature length documentary from gay becomes a real person, not just a nude model. porn auteur Toby Ross, who worked with The personable Ross, who clearly loves Eld back in the day and became well-known his subject, tells the story of Eld’s life, the in his own right for writing and directing good, the bad, and the ugly. He shares Toby Ross. Photo courtesy of Toby Ross. a series of artsy gay porn films. Ross lit his some fascinating and unexpected tidbits about Eld, such as the fact that he worked of Eld’s rise and fall. He tells the truth. He knew Eld, such as photographer John as a physical education teacher and a shoe does not shy away from the ugly side of Michael Cox, also share their memories. salesman before entering the porn world. Eld’s life, his half-hearted attempts to find Cox photographed Eld for a magazine, and Ross tells of how Eld first got into the employment outside of performing and during the shoot Eld claimed to be a married adult entertainment industry his descent into drugs. Eld straight man. Cox recalls seeing Eld at an and shows clips from several of ultimately emerges as a tragic adult theater sometime later working as a Eld’s films. Fans of today’s porn IT’S A BEAUTIFUL figure. janitor and remarks about how depressing films might be surprised when SHOT THAT “It’s not that I loved the this was. The star was on a downward spiral. they see this vintage footage. It person so much,” Ross said in “The only real male pinup whose career was a different era. During one COULD HAVE his interview. “He was difficult transcended his own botched porn career,” lengthy clip Eld and his scene APPEARED IN and unreachable but it’s that Ross said. “Sex in an overload abundance can partner don’t just have sex, A FASHION I was head over heels in love run amok and be a disadvantage without the they spend some time getting with the legend. Do you get mental capacity to manage it. His beauty was to know each other, and they MAGAZINE AND the difference? I also love one thing but then having that fat gorgeous smile. They act like real people IT UNDERSCORES stardom to the abyss stories dick was the extra gift that kept him in the and look like they’re enjoying a la Barbara Payton and Bill is rat race and possibly destroyed him, a pipe the sex. This further humanizes THE MAGNITUDE the quintessential prototype bomb, a torpedo aimed at his life. He was not Eld. OF ELD’S for this metaphor. No matter really a porn star, that is the uniqueness.” Further into the film Ross BEAUTY. how great you are or how sexy Ross wants people to know that Eld was shows a photo of a fully you look if your drug habit is very much a star. He spoke of what he hopes clothed Eld standing in front out of control you have bought people will take from the film. of a building. It’s a beautiful shot that could a one-way ticket for the train on its way to “The idea that in his own way he was an have appeared in a fashion magazine and it Loserville. It almost happened to me.” icon a ‘la Marilyn Monroe and Elvis not just underscores the magnitude of Eld’s beauty. Ross is not the only person in the film a gay icon a ‘la Al Parker,” Ross said. “He Ross’ love for his subject seems to shine who addresses the audience. Others who transcends the gay frame.” DVD box cover for “Bill Eld: through as he continues telling the tale American Pop Culture Icon.” Photo credit: Toby Ross. “Bill Eld: American Pop Culture Icon” is now available on Amazon.

34 • 2.11.2021 A&E THEATER LIFESTYLE PHOTOS LOCAL PERFORMING ARTS CENTERS ANNOUNCE BROADWAY SERIES

J.W. Arnold

he razzle dazzle of Broadway musicals may return to South Florida stages more Tthan 18 months after the COVID-19 pandemic shuttered Miami’s Arsht Center and the Broward Center in Fort Lauderdale. Broadway Across America, one of the largest presenters and producers of live theater, recently announced resumption of the popular series at both venues later RAINBOW this fall. The 2020-21 seasons had just been announced when the pandemic hit. Theaters SPORTS LEAGUE were shuttered and touring companies KICKBALL disbanded. On Jan. 30, the Rainbow Sports League hosted a kickball playoff at Sunset “We have been working diligently with Park. Shown here are Las Sucias, preparing the next strategy for their team. producers, booking agents, and national tour Photo credit: J.R. Davis. To see more, visit SFGN on Facebook. representatives to reschedule these shows,” said Susie Krajsa, Fort Lauderdale-based The Tony Award-winning musical “Hadestown” will president of Broadway Across America. “It’s open the Broadway in Miami series at the Arsht a complex jigsaw puzzle and all the pieces Center in late September. Credit: Charles Sykes. have to fit together in order to reopen.” Keep your eyes on Krajsa said her organization and partners back shows with the 2019 Tony Award- have attempted booking and rebooking the winning best musical “Hadestown,” Sept. seasons several times since last March based 28 — Oct. 3, a retelling of the ancient Greek South Florida on the changing forecasts from the Centers myth of Orpheus and Eurydice, set in a Pool & Hot Tub Service for Disease Control and local public health Depression-era Louisiana speakeasy. The Gay News agencies. season continues with “Hairspray,” Dec. 28 She is still cautiously optimistic: “That’s — Jan. 2; the Miami premieres of “Dear Evan the big question: Where are we going to Hanson,” Feb. 15 — 20, and “Anastasia,” be at the time we’re scheduled to reopen? March 22 — 27; and “Jesus Christ Superstar,” Originally, it was about temperature checks, March 31 — June 5. and then rapid testing, obviously masks, and The Broward Center season begins with now vaccinations,” she added. the poignant 9/11 story about passengers “Since we re-opened for limited events forced to land in a small Newfoundland in November 2020, the Arsht Center has town, “Come From Away,” Nov. 3 — 14, tested and implemented new measures and continuing with touring productions  CLEANING SERVICE for the safety and peace of mind of our of the newest Broadway shows before the  SHOCK A GREEN POOL guests, staff and artists. We will continue shutdown: “The Prom,” Dec. 14 — 19; gender- to work with medical advisors and officials bending comedy “Tootsie,” Jan. 11 — 23; and  POOL LIGHTS REPLACEMENT as conditions evolve to develop and share the Temptations’ jukebox musical, “Ain’t Too  new recommendations prior to Broadway’s Proud,” Feb. 8 — 20. The season concludes LEAK REPAIR AND DETECTION return,” said President and CEO Johann with the Disney blockbuster, “Frozen,”  EQUIPMENT REPLACEMENT Zietsman in a statement. March 9 — 20, which recently announced In Fort Lauderdale, the Cleveland Clinic, will not be reopening on Broadway when  COMPETE POOL RENOVATION originally a sponsor of the Broward Center shows resume. SFGN.com performances, has been consulting on health “We are so grateful for our subscribers, and safety measures since earlier in the who’ve stuck with us throughout this entire FREE Estimates pandemic, when the scope of the pandemic time,” noted Krajsa, “whether the news has @SoFlaGayNews was still unfolding, Krajsa said. been good or bad. We’re all hopeful and Licensed (cc#13-SP-17780-T) & Insured The Arsht Center will be first to welcome excited.” SouthFloridaGayNews 954-793-7206 | lacquaazzurra.com

For more information, go to ArshtCenter.org and BrowardCenter.org.

2.11.2021 • 35 A&E THEATER COCO PERU! ISLAND CITY WORLD World famous comedian and drag actor goes all out on air PREMIERE STRIKES A NERVE

J.W. Arnold The world-famous Miss t’s been a long time since I’ve left Coco Peru, the American a theater angry. It’s been an even actor, comedian and Ilonger time since I found myself still drag performer known fuming days later as I write a review. To say Hannah Manikowski’s world premiere for her role in the 1999 play “Compensation,” currently playing at independent film Trick Island City Stage, is a stinging gut punch to this white, middle-aged gay man is an and for her series of live understatement — and that’s exactly the theater performances, reaction she wanted. will be the featured guest Elliott (Israel Viñas) and Gabriel (Stephen Kaiser) are an affluent gay couple in their on the Norm Kent Show mid-30s who have toyed with the idea of next Monday, February starting a family. Elliott’s sister will supply the egg and presumably one of the men will 15, at 4 pm EST. be sperm donor. All they need is a surrogate to carry their baby to term. For 20 years Peru Unbeknownst to Gabriel, Elliott has engaged a promising candidate online. Tara Stephen Kaiser, Gaby Tortoledo and Israel Vinas has starred in various (Gaby Tortoledo) is an attractive 24-year- star in the world premiere of “Compensation,” “one-woman shows” old college student who becomes his BFF in currently playing at Island City Stage in Wilton almost no time. Elliott is giddy, while Gabriel Manors. Credit: Matt Tippins. across the US and other is cautious as subtle warning signs emerge countries, and hosted that this perfect arrangement may be fraught is NOT an attack on gay men per se, but a with complications. surprising catalyst for deep discussion about LGBT events. This may be somewhat of a spoiler, but gender, power and ethics. Many a straight the girl has some serious emotional issues couple have found themselves in similar and, weeks into the pregnancy, begins to situations. have misgivings about the whole thing The cast, which is self-quarantining after learning there might be complications between performances and tested for that would preclude her from COVID twice weekly, displays having a child of her own. a cohesive understanding of Never mind that she led Elliott BE CLEAR, the complicated characters and and Gabriel to believe she held “COMPENSATION” nuanced, constantly evolving Live at 4 ! no such desires. IS NOT AN relationships. Director Roy Despite the legal contract ATTACK ON GAY Abbott makes the most of Ad opportunities: and sizable payment she Manikowski’s smart dialogue MEN PER SE, BUT 954-661-3361 received, let alone the couple’s with a fairly fast-paced staging dashed dreams, this is an A SURPRISING of the 90-minute, one-act play. issue of a woman’s control of CATALYST FOR In pre-pandemic times, a her own body for Tara — and playwright often collaborates Manikowski, who is also 24 DEEP DISCUSSION onsite in the development and a lesbian who has been ABOUT GENDER, of the premiere production. considering her own plans for a POWER AND Zoom seems to have provided future family. an adequate substitute for Like a presumed majority of ETHICS. Manikowski, a Carnegie- 95.3 FM Island City’s gay male audience, Mellon directing graduate. Afternoon Drive... I’m biased in favor of the men, just as A professional produced video of the 96.9 FM local and LIVE. Manikowski plainly writes from a female production will be available for streaming 1470 AM perspective. But, to be clear, “Compensation” online through Feb. 28. hear past shows at www.normkentshow.com Island City Stage presents the world premiere of Hannah Manikowski’s “Compensation,” through Feb. 20 at Wilton Theater Factory, 2304 N. Dixie Hwy. in Wilton Manors. Tickets are $35 plus a $3 online processing fee at IslandCityStage.org. Note: Masks are required throughout the performance and social- Live streaming • wwnnradio.com distancing measures are in place at the theater.

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38 • 2.11.2021 FEATURE PETS

After having a home for five years, my owners got divorced YOU KNOW WHERE NOBODY and no one wanted me in the end. I thought I was part of TO FIND US... WANTED ME the family, but I guess I was wrong. My name is Shadow (ID 639053), I’m 5 years old and weigh 49 pounds. I’m a BUT WE MIGHT BE sweet fellow who is good with other dogs, I just will do best CLOSER THAN YOU THINK. in a home without cats. I’m potty-trained, know a few basic commands and am a good boy when left alone. I do pull on the leash when I get to go for walks, so a proper walking harness will be best for me. I enjoy the companionship of people of all SHADOW ages. Please, will you give me a INSIDE THE chance? PRIDE FACTORY

If you would like to meet a pet, please visit www.humanebroward.com. The banners rotate so click on the one that says 850 NE 13th St COVID-19 update adoptions and essential services update and scroll down a little bit. There you will find an application for Fort Lauderdale adoption and other pertinent information. Complete the application (even if you have adopted before) and submit it. Please be patient, as the shelter is getting lots of applications daily. Adoptions are being done by appointment only now. For more information call 954-989-3977 ext. 6 The vaccine clinic remains open Monday — Friday 9 AM — 4:30 PM no appointment necessary, credit cards only. FACE MASKS ARE REQUIRED WHEN COMING TO THE SHELTER.

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2.11.2021 • 39 is all Love you need

Why we love John Knox Village... We love JKV because it gives us an “ opportunity to move into a brand new state-of-the-art high-rise in an established community, offering a “wide range of exciting amenities!

Westlake Priority Depositors David Bose and Jay Shah

Do you have questions? Call 954-628-3768 today.

John Knox Village 651 SW 6th Street, Pompano Beach, FL 33060 Johnknoxvillage.com | jkvgrows.com

John Knox Village is committed to compliance with all federal, state and local fair housing laws. It is our policy to offer senior living to those that qualify without regard to race, color, national origin, religion, sex, sexual orientation, familial status, or handicap. The employees of John Knox Village have a legal obligation to treat each individual in a consistent and equally fair manner. In order to assist you with your decision on your new home, we are providing a list of guidelines used to qualify residents for tenancy in our community. Please note that this is our current rental/ownership criteria; nothing contained in these requirements shall constitute a guarantee or representation by John Knox Village that all residents and occupants currently residing at the community have met these requirements. There may be residents and occupants that have resided the community prior to these requirements going into effect. Additionally, our ability to verify whether these requirements have been met is limited to the information we receive from various credit and screening services used.