local name global coverage April 27, 2016 vol. 7 // issue 17 south florida gay news

Out of closet, out of home

DOCUMENTARY ON HOMELESS LGBT PagES 16, 22, 26

GAY EDITOR MURDERED • Page 3 MISS VICKY PASSES • PagE 5 TRUTH WINS OUT • PagE 12 SOUTHFLORIDAGAYNEWS SOFLAGAYNEWS SFGN.COM SouthFloridaGayNews.com Comments from SFGN’s online outlets APRIL 27, 2016 • VOLUME 7 • ISSUE 17 THE OPENING LINE Compiled by John McDonald 2520 N. DIXIE HIGHWAY • WILTON MANORS, FL 33305 PHONE: 954-530-4970 FAX: 954-530-7943

Photos: Facebook. P UBLISHER • NORM KENT [email protected] CHRISTIAN WOMEN’S GROUP DECLINES TO TIP CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER • PIER ANGELO GUIDUGLI UTAH DECLARES PORN A ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER / EXECUTIVE EDITOR • JASON PARSLEY PUBLIC HEALTH HAZARD GAY WAITRESS; LEAVES BIBLE VERSE INSTEAD [email protected] Jayson Ross Jay – Editorial Hey, I’m a fellow Christian and ART DIRECTOR • BRENDON LIES [email protected] I watch porn. To be perfectly Tiffany Fandl – DESIGNER • CHARLES PRATT blunt, straightforward, and to EDITORIAL ASSISTANT • JILLIAN MELERO the point, I do not even consider That’s why I discriminate [email protected] it to be cheating. To hell with Utah. INTERNET ASSISTANT • [email protected] against religious folks. Cordial ARTS/ENTERTAINMENT EDITOR • JW ARNOLD [email protected] accommodation is the most NEWS EDITOR • JOHN MCDONALD Tom Menninger – [email protected] Their patrons are the biggest they get from me. MIAMI-DADE REPORTER • ANTHONY BEVEN hypocrites. They should mind FOOD/TRAVEL EDITOR • RICK KARLIN their own freakin’ business. GAZETTE NEWS EDITOR • MICHAEL D'OLIVEIRA SENIOR PHOTOGRAPHER • J.R. DAVIS [email protected] – Luimar Zibetti – Joseph Green Steve Johnson – Senior Features Correspondents Garza oh you old coots.... Post their pic from the security ah self-righteousness. JESSE MONTEAGUDO • TONY ADAMS cameras and let it go viral....yeah yer just bored silly with your How we love it. Correspondents lives that you have to impose [teach] those bitches a lesson DORI ZINN • ANDREA RICHARD • DONALD CAVANAUGH upon others. What all those CHRISTIANA LILLY • DENISE ROYAL • SEAN MCSHEE ALEX ADAMS • GARY KRAMER • DAVID-ELIJAH NAHMOD Mormons confessing that they can’t break away from the porn in bishop meeting after Contributing Columnists bishop meeting? First you put your nose in BRIAN MCNAUGHT • DANA RUDOLPH • WAYNE BESEN RIC REILY • STEVE SILER • BIL BROWNING Prop 8, then you call the LGBT community TERRI SCHLICHENMEYER quite the “abomination” (no less than what FAG ON A CAKE?? WHOLE FOODS those jihadists are doing) and now you’re Associate Photographers POMPANO BILL • STEVEN SHIRES gonna be Papa Smurf and “forbid” people from watching porn. Yer perverts ya know... STORY A MYSTERY Sales & Marketing just idiotic, mind numbing perverts. DIRECTOR OF SALES & MARKETING • MIKE TROTTIER [email protected] Greg Phelps – SALES MANAGER • JUSTIN WYSE I have to question why this man even took the cake home if he noticed it in the parking [email protected] lot…why wouldn’t he have taken it back immediately and asked to speak to the manager in ADVERTISING SALES ASSOCIATE • EDWIN NEIMANN person? Not saying he isn’t telling the truth, but by leaving the premises and allowing time [email protected] ADVERTISING SALES ASSOCIATE • CINDY CURTIS to pass, he opens himself up to doubt. [email protected] ADVERTISING SALES ASSOCIATE • JIM ALBRIGHT [email protected] SALES ASSISTANT • DEVON WOODS Will Portalatin – [email protected] DISTRIBUTION SERVICES • BRIAN SWINFORD All I am saying is that if he is fabricating this story then it would be such a huge disappointment and insult to those who fought for our rights of equality and love. If he NATIONAL ADVERTISING isn’t then a shame to Whole Foods but this surveillance footage is really not making this RIVENDELL MEDIA 212-242-6863 customer look good at the moment. [email protected] ACCOUNTING SERVICES BY CG BOOKKEEPING

PRINTING BY SUN COAST PRESS

MEMBER Paul Castilonia – Whole Foods from what I’ve seen is very LGBT friendly. In Memoriam DENNIS JOZEFOWICZ INTERNET DIRECTOR 2010 - 2016 MEMBER

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 SFGNWINNER of of individuals based on their names 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 & FLORIDA PRESS CLUB Awards appears in print and online, including articles used in conjunction with the MEMBER 3 AP, is protected under federal copyright and intellectual property laws, and is jealously guarded by the newspaper. Nothing published may And runner-up for be reprinted in whole or part without getting written consent from the Publisher, at his law offi ce, at [email protected]. SFGN, as a private corporation, reserves the right to enforce its own standards regarding the NLGJA Journalist of the Year suitability of advertising copy, illustrations and photographs. Associated Press Copyright © 2016 South Florida Gay News.com, Inc.

2 • 4.27.2016 MEMBER news highlight

GAY MAGAZINE EDITOR HACKED John McDonald TO DEATH

ulhaz Mannan is being described in Kerry, in a news release. the press as a person with heart and In addition to his editing duties, Mannan Xcourage. worked for the United States Agency for “He was the kind of person willing to International Development. He was a fi ght for what he believed, someone ready local hire, State Department offi cials said, to stand up for his own rights and the rights employed at the U.S. embassy in Dhaka. of others,” said USAID administrator Gayle The Associated Press is reporting the Smith. militant group Ansar al-Islam is claiming The international diplomatic community responsibility for the attacks, motivated by is in mourning this week amid the horrifi c Mannan’s LGBT activism. Ansar al-Islam, news of Mannan’s killing. Editor of the only which has been linked to the global terrorist LGBT magazine in the Asian country of organization al-Qaeda, told the AP the attack Bangladesh, Mannan, 35, was murdered by was motivated by “pioneers of practicing and members of a militant terrorist group with promotiong homosexuality in Bangladesh.” ties to al-Qaeda. Meanwhile, the U.S. is seeking justice and Police in the Bangladesh capital city of remains committed to human rights for all. Dhaka, said the slaying occurred on Monday. “We off er our full support to the Attackers, reportedly, ambushed Mannan government of Bangladesh as they and his friend, Tanay Mojumder, in his investigate these murders and bring the second story apartment. perpetrators to justice. We remain committed “We are profoundly saddened by the to the principles that were so important to loss of one of our own in such a senseless Xulhaz, and we promise to support all those act of violence, and we extend our deepest who work on behalf of tolerance and human condolences to Xulhaz’s family and loved rights in Bangladesh and around the world,” ones,” said U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry said.

4.27.2016 • 3 news local Submitted Photo news passages FORT LAUDERDALE CHURCH STUDIES Submitted Photo. HUMAN TRAFFICKING John McDonald

recent United Nations report estimated 1.2 million globally become victims of Ahuman trafficking annually. Another study, conducted by UNICEF (United Nations Children’s Fund) discovers one in three juvenile runaways is solicited for sex within 48 hours of of “modern slavery.” Six workshops are also leaving home. UNICEF also estimates human scheduled to examine the topic, including an trafficking to generate $150 million in profits LGBTQ angle. every year with states such as California, Texas, On its website, Love146.org president and co- New York and Florida having the highest rates. founder Rob Morris shares a story of a mission to PAM DOTO REMEMBERED AS EDITOR WHO EXTENDED This weekend one church in Fort Lauderdale southeast Asia that resulted in a raid of a brothel is facilitating a conference to better understand where children were being sold for sex. FAITH AND FRIENDSHIP TO HER REPORTERS and deal with this alarming topic. United The number 146 represents one of the girls Church of Christ Fort Lauderdale, 2501 N.E. Morris and his team of investigators witnessed at Michael d’Oliveira 30th Street, is hosting a spring gathering, April the brothel. 29-30, in which 84 UCC churches from across “Her number was 146,” Morris writes. “She was Florida are scheduled to participate. looking beyond the glass. She was staring out at he Forum newsroom under Pam Doto fun and meaningful as possible, and she did. Keynote speaker is Dr. Stephanie Goins, us with a piercing gaze. There was still fight left was part journalism, part episode of The She gave me my first column. Who does that executive program director for Love146.org. in her eyes. There was still life left in this girl….” TOffice. with someone fresh out of college?” asked Abbi Dr. Goins is expected to speak about the face Doto, 53, vice president of editorial at Forum Schorr Perry, former columnist for the Jewish Publishing Group since 2001, died on April 16 Journal. “And she let this kid write every month? at Holy Cross Hospital in Fort Lauderdale. Her She had faith in all her employees.” To register for the conference, visit www.uccfla.org or call (954) 563-4271. partner of 14 years, Jennifer Mellichamp, cited “She cared. She just cared about everyone complications from intestinal failure as the that worked for her. I think she realized the cause of death. key to having good people, that stick around, Jennifer Boehm, former page designer is you had to make it worth it to them,” said at Forum, remembers chicken wing eating Elissa Rosen, former page designer at Forum. contests, office chair races and Halloween “Pam was one of the coolest ladies I ever knew. costumes. “She knew that the newspaper She always wore business suits to work but she industry was a tough industry to be in. While was probably the most fun person I’ve ever met. she wanted us to work hard and obviously get She used to skateboard. She played the drums. the news reported, she knew it was important Every now and then she would reveal a piece of for us to have fun in the office and that it would herself.” bring us closer together as a group.” “Pam learned how to play the drums at the “It was fun, hijinks, chaos. It was planned age of 10. Self-taught. She played the keyboard chaos. She liked that silliness that people and bass. She could pick up instruments and brought,” said Laura Kokus, former editor at know how to play songs. It was just amazing Forum and the Sun Sentinel. “We did some to see her play the drums,” Mellichamp said. crazy things there. We turned her office into a “She just knew music inside and out. That garden with mulch and a pathway. That’s what would have probably been an alternate career she brought out in us. A lot of creative chaos. I’m for her. She was just really a good musician. It so heartbroken I don’t know what to say.” was amazing to see that side of her as opposed And like any good editor, Doto knew how to to this more assertive journalist type.” listen. That side also included a love of animals and “You could go in and talk to her about any camping. “She loved to go camping. Pam knew problems, whether it was work or your personal how to survive. She had very good survival life. She really had great advice. She wasn’t just a instincts. She was very industrious. I think boss. She was also a friend,” said Boehm. one time Howard Saltz called her MacGyver,” Before joining Forum in 2001, Doto was the Mellichamp said. managing editor of the Tonawanda News in Most of all, she loved her staff. Buffalo, city editor of The Key West Citizen and “Up until the end, she was thinking about her associate editor of the Solares Hill Newspaper staff. Her last words really were about her staff. in Key West. She got her start in journalism as ‘Tell my staff I love them.’” a reporter at the Anchorage Daily News in 1990. Doto is survived by her sister and brother- Along with her partner and family, Doto in-law, Stephanie and Mike Behrent, and her leaves behind numerous reporters and ex- niece and nephew, Nicole and Nathan Behrent. reporters who say she gave them their start in Services were held on Saturday at St. Paul the journalism. Apostle Catholic Church in Lighthouse Point. “Pam was so supportive of anything I wanted Interment will be at St. James Cemetery in to do. She wanted to make coming to work as Westfield, New York.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Big Dog Ranch Rescue at BDRR.org.

4 • 4.27.2016 VICKY KELLER Longtime Pride Committee Member Dead At 90

John McDonald

ivien Keller, a woman often about order and respect to what were characterized as putting others’ often contentious meetings. Vinterests ahead of her own, “She didn’t get involved in the politics passed on Sunday, April 24. She was 90. and evilness of it,” Martorell said. “For Known to her friends as simply, board members who were stressed out “Miss Vicky,” Keller was active in it was good to hear her talk.” several South Florida organizations, The wisdom Keller off ered was adding input as a straight ally as well as returned with gratitude when she fell performing as an actor and musician. on hard times last year. Through the “You can name a bar in the ‘80s and help of a GoFundMe account, nearly ‘90s that was open in Fort Lauderdale $10,000 was raised to help Fischer and Vicky played it,” said Jodi Fischer, manage Keller’s care after her rent was a longtime friend, who served as unexpectedly raised. Keller’s care giver during her fi nal Over the weekend, Keller was moved years. “She always had her fi nger on to Holy Cross hospice, Fischer said, the pulse of what was happening in the where she lived her fi nal days. community.” “A community icon…rest in peace, Keller helped launch two important sleep well and wake up smiling,” wrote organizations – AIDS Center One and Jodi Reichman on SFGN’s Facebook Womynsong Lesbian Chorus. For many page. “You deserve a great ride to years she lent her talents in a leadership your next location where you will be role for Pride South Florida. welcomed with open arms.” “It was never about her,” said Miik Congregation Etz Chaim is hosting Martorell, a Pride Fort Lauderdale team a memorial service for Keller on May 3 member. “It was always about what at 7 p.m. inside building B at the Pride she could do for someone else…for the Center at Equality Park. Martorell community.” said he expects the service to be an Martorell said Keller’s presence at emotional one as “Miss Vicky touched Pride board meetings typically brought so many people.”

4.27.2016 • 5 I refuse to let HIV get in the way of my busy schedule. I even have a cell phone app that reminds me to take my HIV meds. When I’m not working, I keep busy with boot camp, swimming, weight lifting, meditation, traveling and — oh yeah — karaoke. I know that the more control I have over my HIV, the less power I give to the virus. I take control by taking my HIV medication every day.

6 • 4.27.2016 “Think you can slow me down, HIV? Not in this lifetime.” Yuri - Miami, FL Living with HIV.

HIV TREATMENT WORKS

I refuse to let HIV get in the way of my busy schedule. I even have a cell phone app that reminds me to take my HIV Get in care. Stay in care. Live well. meds. When I’m not working, I keep busy with boot camp, swimming, weight lifting, meditation, traveling and — oh yeah — karaoke. I know that the more control I have over my HIV, the less power I give to the virus. I take control by taking my HIV medication every day. cdc.gov/HIVTreatmentWorks

4.27.2016 • 7 Compiled by Jillian Melero

Fort Lauderdale Visitors Bureau Committed to LGBT Rights

(Fort Lauderdale CVB) The Greater Fort the unlawful discrimination in public Lauderdale Convention & Visitors Bureau in accommodations that includes denying, Broward County is reaffirming its commitment withholding or refusing an individual or group to the human rights of gay couples, gay families the full and equal enjoyment of goods, services and transgender residents and travelers or facilities that may occur in a place of public following recent laws that discriminate against accommodations or establishment. the LGBTQ community in some U.S. states. “It is evident the practices Broward County put “We fought and won this debate more than 20 in place more than two decades ago have made years ago when we expanded the Broward County Greater Fort Lauderdale successful and a leader Human Rights Act to include sexual orientation in LGBT rights. We have and will continue to set as a protected classification in 1995,” said Nicki a standard for other destinations to follow,” said E. Grossman, president and CEO, Greater Fort Gray. Lauderdale Convention & Visitors Bureau. Broward County enforces a local ordinance For more information, please visit to protect the LGBTQ community, including www.sunny.org/lgbt.

ethodist Bishop & Pastor Risk allies for, Against House Bill 2 Set on lue Man Group Latest to Cancel NC Jobs, Marry Gay Couple in NC Session’s First Day Dates Over Anti-LGBT Law M(EDGE) North Carolina continued to be a hotbed of LGBT R(AP) North Carolina legislators returning for their annual work B(AP) The Blue Man Group is the latest musical act to controversy this weekend when two Methodist clergymen, in session will hear loud and clear from supporters and opponents cancel shows in North Carolina after the state’s passage of defiance of church policy, risked their jobs by officiating the of a law they approved last month addressing bathroom use by a law limiting anti-discrimination protections for the LGBT marriage of a gay couple. transgender people and limiting government protections for LGBT community. “The ultimate action would be removal of my order,” citizens. The group was scheduled to perform June 17 through June Bishop Melvin Talbert told BuzzFeed News, acknowledging Christian conservatives and other backers of the law known as 19 in Charlotte but issued a statement Friday that it was the risks for himself and Pastor Val Rosenquist. “I would no House Bill 2 scheduled a midday rally Monday - the fi rst day of the canceling the shows. longer be a bishop.” session - near the Legislative Building in Raleigh. Later civil rights The statement said the group values “every individual’s The wedding of gay couple Jim Wilborne and John Romano groups led by the state NAACP will rally to oppose Republican right to live a dignified, vibrant life in full color. As such, we was intentionally timed to coincide with a vote next month policies like the law approved in a special session last month. They are joining the growing list of entertainment professionals in of the United Methodist Church’s voting body to repeal the also plan a “mass sit-in” inside the Legislative Building. protest of North Carolina’s HB2 law.” ban on clergy marrying same-sex couples. Previous attempts Earlier Monday, representatives of gay-rights groups will present Other artists who have cancelled North Carolina to overturn the ban failed in 2008 and 2012. Talbert is hoping a petition to Gov. Pat McCrory’s offi ce asking he seek the law’s appearances in the wake of the law’s passage include Bruce that the wedding could help sway church delegates. repeal. Springsteen, Ringo Starr, Ani DiFranco, Pearl Jam and Boston. “If the delegates are open-minded, this could have a positive impact,” Talbert told BuzzFeed. Talbert is no stranger to civil rights activists. In 1960 he Charlotte, N.C. was arrested with Dr. Martin Luther King in the Atlanta sit- chool Board Seeks Review of ins. He says that marrying the gay couple is “an act of civil Transgender Bathroom Ruling disobedience. The only difference is we are giving it another S(AP) A Virginia school board will ask the full 4th U.S. name in calling it biblical obedience.” He has previously Circuit Court of Appeals to review the court’s ruling that a defied church policy by marrying same-sex couples. high school discriminated against a transgender teen by “Discrimination is discrimination no matter where it forbidding him from using the boys’ restroom. is,” he added. “It was race discrimination then, and it is In a statement presented at the Gloucester County School discrimination based on sexual orientation now.” Board meeting Thursday night, Chairman Troy Andersen “My congregation has worked for decades to include said the board decided unanimously to file a petition for an the LGBTQ community,” Talbert’s co-officiant Pastor Val en banc hearing before the court. Rosenquist of the First Methodist Church of North Carolina A three-judge panel ruled Tuesday that the policy in Charlotte said. According to UMC.org, in August, the is discriminatory. A federal judge had rejected a sex congregation voted to allow any adult member of the church discrimination claim by Gloucester High School student to marry there. Gavin Grimm, who was born female but identifies as male. “The United Methodist Church has upheld what I consider After complaints, the school board adopted a policy requiring to be incredibly discriminatory and unjust legislation for too students to use public restrooms corresponding with their long,” Rosenquist said. biological gender.

8 • 4.27.2016 News Briefs continued ayors Urge Tennessee Gov to Veto bama Says Anti-LGBT Laws Should Counseling Exemption Bill Be Overturned M O(AP) President Barack Obama called on Friday for the overturning of a Knoxville, Tenn. North Carolina law that requires transgender people to use public bathrooms President Obama conforming to the sex on their birth certifi cates and restricts protections for LGBT people. Obama criticized the state law and others targeting LGBT people during a news conference Friday in London. The United Kingdom had put out a travel advisory Friday warning British citizens about possible discrimination if they travel to certain U.S. states. Obama said he wanted the British to know that people in North Carolina and other states that have pursued similar legislation are “wonderful people” and (AP) D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser and her note that the broadly-written nature of the that British citizens should feel free to come and enjoy themselves. He said he fellow big-city mayors are rallying to the bill could potentially lead to other forms of believes they’ll be treated with “extraordinary hospitality.” defense of Tennessee’s LGBT community. discrimination, such as a therapist refusing “I also think the laws that have been passed there are wrong and should be Bowser is a member of Mayors Against to treat a veteran. overturned,” Obama said. Discrimination, a coalition of city In addition to Bowser, other signatories The president explained that he believed the laws were in response to executives from major metropolitan areas of the letter are San Francisco Mayor Edwin “politics, in part,” as well as to “some strong emotions that are generated by who support LGBT rights and oppose any Lee; New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio; people.” actions intended to restrict freedoms for Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti; Seattle Obama also emphasized that some of the law’s proponents are “good people.” that vulnerable community. On Tuesday, Mayor Ed Murray; Philadelphia Mayor Jim “Although I respect their diff erent viewpoints, I think it’s very important for the coalition sent a letter to Tennessee Gov. Kenney; Kitty Piercy, the mayor of Eugene, us not to send signals that anybody is treated diff erently,” Obama said. Bill Haslam (R) urging him to veto a bill Ore.; Javier Gonzales, the mayor of Santa North Carolina’s so-called bathroom law, among other things, requires that would allow counselors and therapists Fe; and Jim Ellison, the mayor of Royal Oak, transgender people to use bathrooms corresponding to the gender on their to refuse service to LGBT clients by citing Mich. birth certifi cate in state government buildings as well as public schools and personal objections - including those that “[The bill] sets a dangerous precedent of universities. are not based on religious beliefs or moral intolerance for LGBT and other minority North Carolina state Senate leader Phil Berger, a Republican, and one of the most vocal supporters of the law, responded to Obama’s comments in a press principles. communities and will specifi cally impact TV. Photo Credit: HOST The coalition estimates that nearly one- already vulnerable individuals seeking release stating that “not every father has the luxury of secret service agents quarter of Tennessee’s 6.5 million residents mental health services,” the mayors’ letter protecting his daughters’ right to privacy in the girls’ bathroom.” live in rural areas, meaning they have fewer continues. “We ask for your veto to prevent Berger has said the law protects women and girls from men using the false mental health professionals from whom this misguided bill from becoming law.” pretense of being transgender to enter women’s restrooms and locker rooms. they may seek treatment. The mayors also

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4.27.2016 • 9 LOWEST PRICES • LARGEST SELECTION GUARANTEED • continued YOUR ONE STOP SHOP FOR News Briefs PEACE PIPE ALL YOUR VAPOR NEEDS! Over 1,000 SQ FT. LARGEST elinda Carlisle to Take Part in Candlelight GLASSROOM! SELECTION BVigil to Protest Mississippi Anti-LGBT Law HOOKAHS • SHISHA • ROLLING PAPERS DIESEL • LEFT COAST • MEDICALI • (EDGE) While comic Tracy Morgan and • VAPORIZERS • ELECTRIC CIGARETTES ROOR • GRAV LABS • SILIKA • PULSE • • ELIQUIDS • ZIPPOS • TOBACCO rocker Bryan Adams have cancelled dates in TSUNAMI & MORE! ACCESSORIES Mississippi over the recent passage of anti- LGBT legislation, former Go-Go, Belinda INCENSE + CANDLES + TAPESTRIES • ASHTRAYS • TORCH LIGHTERS • Carlisle is saying “on with the show” -- with a FLASKS • BODY JEWELRY • GAMES • ROLLING TOBACCO • POSTERS • peaceful protest to follow. STATUES • FIGURINES • T-SHIRTS • LOTS MORE! The 80s pop icon will take part in a OPEN MON - SAT: 10AM - 9PM • SUN: 12 - 6 PM “candlelight vigil” at the IP Casino in Biloxi, Mississippi on Saturday night as a peaceful EVERYTHING YOU NEED! MORE THAN YOU EXPECT! protest to the anti-LGBT “religious freedom” law recently signed into action by Gov. Phil The Best Since 1996 15 Minutes From The Beach or I-95 Bryant, The Sun Herald reports. Two “We’re calling it a candlelight vigil, but 954-267-9005 Locations! 754-779-7007 4800 N. DIXIE HIGHWAY, FORT LAUDERDALE 821 N. FEDERAL HWY., FORT LAUDERDALE you can’t actually burn candles inside Studio JUST SOUTH OF COMMERCIAL BLVD JUST SOUTH OF SEARS TOWN NEXT TO CUBBY HOLE A at the IP,” organizer Brandiilyne Dear of FACEBOOK.COM/PEACEPIPEFL @PEACEPIPEFORTLAUDERDALE Hattiesburg told the Sun Herald. “So, we are giving out glow sticks to those that want to attend.” Photo Credit: Phil King. Carlisle, who is mother to a gay son and activist is expected to speak at the vigil. The peaceful protest will follow Carlisle’s they contacted me about getting something scheduled performance at the IP. According to together. We only had 10 days to get this the Sun Herald, the “Heaven on Earth” singer together and the IP has been very helpful in and former member of the Go-Go’s initially allowing us to do this.” thought of cancelling her concert in response Dear said she has invited some Coast to the law. mayors to attend the ceremony. A petition will “Belinda contacted some friends in the be circulated that encourages state lawmakers LGBT community,” Dear said of the vigil, “and to repeal the bill. hange in NC Law Needed for All-Star in CCharlotte NBA Commissioner Adam Silver Presser Photo: CNN.

(AP) Commissioner Adam Silver believes would see a change in the law. They weren’t the NBA has been “crystal clear” that the guaranteeing it and I think which was 2017 All-Star Game only stays in Charlotte why my response was the event still is 10 if a North Carolina law goes. months from now, we don’t need to make a Political and business leaders he’s decision yet,” Silver said Thursday during a spoken with in the state believe it will, meeting of Associated Press Sports Editors. so he’s holding off for now on setting any “We’ve been, I think, crystal clear that we deadlines for when the NBA might act. believe a change in the law is necessary for Silver said last week that the law that us to play in the kind of environment that limits anti-discrimination protections we think is appropriate for a celebratory for lesbian, gay and transgender people NBA event, but that we did have some time was “problematic” for the league, but he and that if the view of the people who were believed dialogue was more useful than allied with us in terms of a change, if their ultimatums at this point, so has continued view, the people on the ground in North discussions with North Carolina officials. Carolina, was that the situation would “The sense was that if the NBA could best be served by us not setting a deadline, give us some time, they in the community we would not set a deadline at this time.” of North Carolina were optimistic they

10 • 4.27.2016 news national Everyone’s Talking About NC’s Anti- LGBT Law --Except NC’s Lawmakers Associated Press

While the whole country is talking about the Several sought to quickly get off the phone. North Carolina law that limits protections for Reached at home, Rep. John M. Blust answered gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender people, a question No. 1 by saying: “I’m not looking at new survey shows one group that largely refuses doing that right now.” to discuss it: the lawmakers who passed it. “Can I put you down as a ‘no’?” a reporter Less than a third of the state’s legislators asked. answered in a statewide survey whether they’d The Republican, who voted for the state law, prefer to amend the law or leave it as-is when said he had no more time to talk because he was their session starts Monday. A couple cited an mired in work on his campaign for U.S. Congress impending Rotary meeting or preparations to in North Carolina’s 13th District. run for Congress as reasons why they had no Republican Rep. Josh Dobson, who also time to answer, while another simply hung up voted for the legislation, said: “I usually refer on a reporter in between questions. everything to the Speaker’s offi ce,” then hung up The survey, conducted by reporters from before a reporter could ask a follow-up question. seven newspapers and The Associated Press Rep. Pat Hurley politely said she was preparing since April 13, consisted of three questions posed for a Rotary meeting and asked a reporter to call to all 168 current senators and representatives. back around 2 p.m. She didn’t answer the second Seeking a yes-or-no answer, the fi rst asked: call. “Do you support revisiting House Bill 2 to Of 41 lawmakers on AP’s portion of the possibly amend it during the regular session?” list, a handful responded promptly. Twenty- The second asked which parts they wanted eight never returned calls and emails to their to address, while the third sought any further legislative offi ces, followed by messages on comments. home, mobile or business numbers. Here’s what one Republican who voted for Democratic Sen. Floyd McKissick of the legislation, Rep. William Brawley, thought Durham, who wants the law repealed and left of the survey: “We read your questionnaire and in protest when it passed, suggested some may believed it was a trap and I would not respond.” be unwilling to talk out of embarrassment or Overall, 41 lawmakers - mostly Democrats - loyalty to the Republican caucus. said they favor revisiting the law. That’s several “I’ve spoken to two that were not really happy more than the group - also mostly Democrats with the bill to start with, but the pressure of the - who voted against it or left their chamber in caucus to stick together is very strong,” he said. protest the day it passed during a March special “But none of them would ever speak publicly session. against their caucus.” The law says that in government buildings One lawmaker not afraid to discuss his as well as public schools and universities, support for the bill is Sen. Jerry Tillman, who transgender people must use bathrooms speaks with a frankness sharpened over seven corresponding with the gender on their terms in the chamber. birth certifi cate. It also excludes sexual “I would not be for amending it,” he said by orientation and gender identity from statewide phone. “We passed a good bill, and I’m ready to antidiscrimination protections and overrules stand on that bill.” local nondiscrimination ordinances. He added, “Right now I don’t even feel like the The law has drawn widespread criticism from mood is there to do any changes.” equality advocates and business leaders and Hours later, Senate leader Phil Berger echoed even rock icons such as Bruce Springsteen, who that sentiment. canceled a concert. While Berger didn’t respond to the survey, Eleven survey respondents said they weren’t he discussed the likelihood of any changes with in favor of changing the law. Another 17 either reporters Wednesday: “I don’t know that I would declined to comment or off ered an equivocal at any point be ready to say we are going to make answer. The rest simply didn’t answer their any changes. I just don’t see the need for it.” phones or return messages or emails.

4.27.2016 • 11 feature profile Truth Wins Out CELEBRATES 10 YEARS

Christiana Lilly

ayne Besen was 18 years old when he fi rst their own work. Much of this experienced an attempt to rid him of his is done through TWOCARE, Whomosexuality. It was 1988 and his parents bought the organization’s Center him a self-help tape called “Gay and Unhappy,” which claims Against religious Extremism. to use “self hypnosis” and “subliminal persuasion” to turn In 2007, TWO made waves someone straight. when it exposed reparative Decades later, he would use this experience to help fi ght all therapy going on in the clinic forms of conversion therapy. of Marcus Bachmann, the “Instead of my parents dealing with the issue, that was the husband of Congresswoman fi rst thing they turned to when they saw that in the store, Michele Bachmann. TWO sent this tape,” he said. “So I understood intuitively how this in an undercover “patient” works, how that dynamic works within families, because it armed with a hidden camera happened to me.” and recorded multiple sessions Besen is the founder and executive director of Truth Wins where he was told that no one Out (TWO), celebrating its 10th anniversary this year. It was is born gay and that he could be when former President George W. Bush invited the leaders of cured. Exodus International, a religious conversion therapy group, Love in Action ended its camp, to the White House that Besen saw that work needed to be Refuge, in 2007 and started done. He had published the book “Anything but Straight: the Family Freedom Intensive, Unmasking the Scandals and Lies Behind the Ex-Gay Myth” another camp for adults and in 2003 and was already in advocacy work. their children, a month later. While legislation to illegalize the practice for minors is “That was a very dangerous message to send young Love Won Out was sold from Focus on the Family to Exodus underway in multiple states, religious freedom has made it people,” Besen said of Bush’s guests. “This whole ex-gay International, which disbanded in June 2013. hard to ban it for adults. Besen believes it should be illegalized message has found its way into the highest offi ce of the land, In the summer of 2015, JONAH was at the center of the completely because of consumer fraud, but admits that and that has to be countered because it’s a very insidious lie, nation’s fi rst trial on conversion therapy. The Southern TWO’s energy is best spent on helping youngsters forced into being one of the worst around.” Poverty Law Center claimed that not only was their work conversion therapy. “It denies people their very existence and it’s very eff ective, unethical, but it was also consumer fraud. “Make no mistake, it’s extraordinarily damaging when too. It allows people to believe that their own child can pray “I call it malpractice because every respected medical people are put under this practice at any age,” he said. “I away the gay, therefore they don’t have to accept them. It’s and mental health organization says it doesn't work and gay think we should just focus right now on youth. You can’t stop something of a temporary phase, so why go for acceptance if people aren't mentally ill,” Besen explained. “[These groups] everybody from being harmed, but we certainly though can you can start that process?” start talking about what they do and how they do it and even protect our kids.” So he founded TWO in 2006, pouring his savings into the conservatives aren't buying it. I mean that’s how you beat Also, with the internet, TWO putting out its research cause and receiving generous donations from other LGBT them: the question of how. That’s when people see it for the and Besen’s books -- he wrote “Bashing Back” in 2007 -- the activists. The group identifi ed its “foes” as Focus on the fraud it is, for the danger it truly is, and for the deceptive priority is helping those considering therapy to not enter, or Family’s Love Won Out program, Exodus International, Love practice that should be banned. It’s really a con artist’s game.” for those who are already in it, to leave. in Action, Jews Off ering New Alternatives to Homosexuality, The jury found that JONAH was guilty of misrepresentation “If someone stays in it for two years instead of 10, that’s a now for Healing (JONAH) and other conversion therapy and the courts required that it pay $72,400 in damages and victory and we've helped them enormously,” he said. groups. $3.5 million in legal fees, according to Slate. In December Today, Besen is also taking his message to the airwaves as Conversion therapy and the ex-gay movement are 2015, it was ordered that the group disband and could no the host of “The Wayne Besen Show” on Chicago’s Progressive practices, typically rooted in religious belief, that one’s longer practice conversion therapy in the state of New Jersey. Talk. TWO continues working with other groups working to homosexuality can be removed through prayer, fasting, “I think we’ve been enormously successful even beyond ban conversion therapy, sharing its expertise and research on reading scripture, and even going as far as torture and what I had hoped and expected given the results of how the topic. In fact, because of the success of TWO, every year exorcism. The therapies are performed at houses of worship, that movement is now in tatters,” Besen said. “They're all they have evaluated whether it is needed any longer. therapist's offi ces, and camps. gone now and we’re still standing, and that’s exactly what I “At this point, we’ve put most of these groups out,” he said. TWO’s mission was to conduct research into groups, promised… we pound(ed) them relentlessly for a decade into “We always assess, is there more we can do? Are we needed? which helped scholars, lawyers, and other LGBT groups with oblivion.” And then go from there.”

12 • 4.27.2016 news key west politics out on the trail Submitted photos. MIKE SATZ LAUNCHES CAMPAIGN FOR RE-ELECTION John McDonald

The law offi ces of George Castrataro hosted a fundraiser for State Attorney Mike Satz (light blue shirt) last week at a coffee shop in Fort Lauderdale. Photo: John McDonald.

CONCH REPUBLIC OFF TO THE RACES Drag Races and Bed Races mark annual celebration

Andrew Printer

f you have ever visited Key West then local authorities declared independence. you will be familiar with the conch. The This was untenable and the city quickly Iword is pretty much everywhere, found surrendered (they also immediately applied in a variety of contexts. for one billion dollars in foreign aid, which Queen conchs (pronounced “konk”) are it did not get) but a crucial message was soft-bodied animals (mollusks) recognizable received loud and clear and the roadblocks by their spiral shapes and glossy pink or stopped. orange interiors. This most majestic variety Now, the creation of the Conch Republic has been a protected species since 1992. is heralded as a signifi cant moment in Meanwhile, the meat of lesser varieties is Keys lore when a small mouse roared consumed throughout the Caribbean, most and government listened. If you fl y into notably in the form of deep fried fritters. Key West a banner will welcome you to A conch is also how many inhabitants of the Conch Republic. A local offi ce will Key West are defi ned. “Saltwater Conchs” issue you a souvenir passport. Each year describe locals who were born in Key West the Fringe Theatre closes its season with while a “Freshwater Conch” refers to a Conch Republic (the Musical). And each resident not born in Key West but who has year Duval Street closes for two Saturdays lived in Key West for seven or more years. in a row, the fi rst for drag races (men in The designation is a big deal for a heels not men in cars), the second for bed destination city where people come and go races. and there is a real pride in local roots and This year marks the 34th anniversary ancestry. Traced back to its origin, however, of the Conch Republic celebrations and a a conch was originally a slang term for schedule of events runs from April 22-30. native Bahamians of European descent. Last weekend 12 men, some notable local Despite the loosening of the 19th century drag performers, others hardy volunteers defi nition, the descriptor has stuck, lured from the crowd (including a seventy- becoming even more symbolic thanks to a fi ve year old man and a an excessively brouhaha that resulted in the secession of enthusiastic visitor from Canada) ran a the city of Key West from the U.S. on April gauntlet of obstacles in the noonday sun. 23, 1982. The gesture was tongue-in-cheek The anticipation was milked for a good at the time and a tourist attraction now, hour, then the wigs began to fl y and the but the creation of the Conch Republic was contenders winnowed down until a sweaty initiated by a very real problem. winner was anointed. This year young Key West is essentially connected to Omar Gallagos claimed victory. mainland Florida by a few slim roads. In an Where the drag race is an homage to attempt to stem the fl ow of narcotics and Bourbon Street Pub Complex’ attempt to illegal immigrants the U.S. Border patrol stimulate business during Key West’s 1982 routinely ran road-blocks on these roads stand-off the popular bar’s Red Ribbon Bed which also inconvenienced tourists making Race happening on Saturday, April 30 will their way to and from the beaches and bars. benefi t AIDS Help. The event is Bourbon This in turn hurt the Keys’ vital tourism Street Pub’s oldest and most famous event industry. and, according to Joey Schroeder the Pub’s When the city’s complaints went owner “the most fun you can have in bed…. unanswered and an injunction failed, with your clothes on.”

Visit ConchRepiublic .com for the full schedule.

4.27.2016 • 13 lgbtqia bites Compiled by Jillian Melero L Lesbian B Bisexual LESBIAN DENIED SERVICE AT LA. FORMER US SENATOR TALKS OF 2 LOVES - DOLLAR STORE CLARE AND MATTHEW

Former U.S. Sen. Harris Wofford

(EDGE) A New Orleans Family Dollar Store In a cell phone video of the incident, the Photo Credit: CNN. was the site of anti-LGBT discrimination on cashier can be heard saying, “I’m not serving Friday when a cashier refused to serve a them two.” [Langford] is then heard in the customer because she is gay. video saying, “She won’t serve me because “The cashier was just loudly stating her I’m gay and because he doesn’t like anti-gay opinion on her disdain for gay people,” people.” Melissa Langford told CBS affi liate WWLTV. WWL notes that when Langford asked (AP) Former U.S. Sen. Harris Woff ord pinning them on the wall - straight, gay or “Eventually I spoke up because I couldn’t to speak to the manager, she got no results. talks tenderly of his two loves - his late in between.” take it anymore.” This led to a shouting match between the wife Clare and his soon-to-be spouse Woff ord refl ects on his life with his wife “Excuse me, I happen to be very, very gay, cashier and customer who supported her. Matthew Charlton - in a New York Times of 48 years - they had three children - and and you’re really off ending me,” Langford Langford captured the incident on social opinion piece. how he unexpectedly fell in love with said according to NOLA.com. media, which drew local broadcast media The 90-year-old Pennsylvania Charlton fi ve years after her death. Langford’s altercation with the cashier attention. When WWL’s Eyewitness News statesman says in the Sunday piece it’s The former adviser to President John F. drew support from another customer at contacted the store to get their side of the been his good fortune to pair love with Kennedy and Martin Luther King Jr. says the store, who was also denied service for story, the manager on duty claimed to know a best friend twice in life. He says “too he and the 40-year-old Charlton plan to standing by her. nothing about it. often, our society seeks to label people by marry April 30.

14 • 4.27.2016 lgbtqia bites continued Transgender T TRANS TEEN SAYS HE WAS BOOTED FROM CRUZ RALLY IN MD.

James Van Kuilenburg Photo Credit: Facebook.

(EDGE) A transgender high school James told Jezebel, “I wanted them to see student said he was forced to leave a Ted that Cruz’s words can hurt people like me. Cruz campaign rally in Frederick, Maryland I wasn’t there to protest him; I wanted the Thursday, the Frederick News-Post reports. mostly Republican people in the audience James Van Kuilenburg, 16, was draped in the to see who I am, and know I am not a transgender fl ag and entered the Weinberg predator, or dangerous, or a freak,” he told Center for the Arts for the rally last week. But the website. “Before he even came on stage, he and his mother Nicola Van Kuilenburg said I was forcibly removed without a reason by they were kicked out by campaign staff , who a security guy and a local cop. They refused told them they were asked to leave because they to give me a reason and told me that the were with peaceful protesters outside the rally campaign didn’t want me present. I was earlier. Because it was a private event, they could wearing a trans pride fl ag and a t-shirt from be asked to leave, Nicola told the newspaper. NCTE.”

4.27.2016 • 15 community announcement news national DINING OUT FOR LIFE APRIL 28 Ocean Morisset Photography. elp make a diff erence by simply enjoying a Volunteer spokespeople include Ted Allen, host meal with family or friends during Dining of Food Network's Chopped, actor Pam Grier (Foxy HOut For Life hosted by Subaru, a delicious Brown, Jackie Brown), designer Mondo Guerra, event held on Thursday, April 28th. The annual winner of Lifetime's Project Runway All-Stars, and event is magnifi cent in its simplicity: Dine at one chef Daisy Martinez from Food Network's of the 3,000 participating restaurants in nearly 60 Viva Daisy! "I love working with (Dining Out For cities across North America and that restaurant will Life) because it's just such a cool, very low overhead donate a generous portion of the day's proceeds operation that raises more than $4 million for Clients at the Ali Forney Center. to fund HIV/AIDS care, prevention, American HIV and AIDS service education, testing, counseling and organizations in a single day…It other essential services in their city. also helps restaurants and chefs get 2016 marks the fourth new people coming in to try what consecutive year that Broward they're doing. It just seems like such ALI FORNEY CENTER RAISING MONEY House will be the local host/ a win-win-win for everybody," says benefi ciary organization. Broward Ted Allen (HIV Plus Magazine, April TO OPEN HOMELESS SHELTER IN NYC County’s longest-serving and largest 2015). HIV/ AIDS service organization, "We have been the host sponsor Christiana Lilly Broward House had more than of Dining Out For Life for a decade; 8,000 contacts with individuals however, the struggle to fi ght the through their prevention/education, testing, case HIV/AIDS epidemic continues on. Subaru is proud to management, assisted and independent living be part of an event that spreads awareness for such a n the Harlem neighborhood of New educate youth and even hand out condoms programs and their counseling and substance worthy cause and also encourages people to support York City, the Atlah World Missionary to drug dealers. Sadly, at 18 he was shot in abuse treatment programs. those who need it most in their local communities." IChurch is known for creating the head in front of a housing project. He Broward House President and CEO Stacy Hyde said Alan Bethke, vice president of marketing, controversy. Shining from its marquee, was the third transgender person killed in states, “in 2015 we had 17 participating restaurants Subaru of America, Inc. hanging over the front entry, the pastor puts the neighborhood in 18 months. in Broward County and our team is hard at work to up homophobic messages such as, “Obama Siciliano founded the center for homeless increase the number in 2016. We invite everyone To see the full list visit: has released the homo demons on the black LGBT youth ages 16 to 24, where they get help to go out and eat at one of our generous restaurant www.DiningOutForLife.com/ man. Look out black woman. A white homo from 10 housing sites and a drop in center partners on April 28th and support our mission to BrowardCounty/restaurants/ may take your man.” that provides medical care, mental health provide care and prevent HIV.” But in a strange twist of fate, an LGBT care, hormone placement, job training, and youth center might be buying the church more. One-third of those who use AFC’s with hopes to turn it into a shelter. services are gender nonconforming. ‘‘ A GENUINE The Ali Forney Center (AFC), founded “These kids are desperate on the streets,” CROWD-PLEASER in 2002, sees about 1,400 homeless LGBT Siciliano said. “Their lives are extremely THAT PACKS AN EMOTIONAL WALLOP. Director Breathnach achieves a triumph with the actors.’’ Stephen Farber, THE HOLLYWOOD REPORTER youth through its doors every single year brutal and hard and they’re terrifi ed … and through its #HarlemNoHate campaign many of them choose to sleep out on the ‘‘AN EMOTION- is hoping to acquire the building. streets and the subways.” With the church facing foreclosure, Just like Forney did in the ‘90s, when FILLEDthat uncovers an DRAMAauthentic Cuba.’’ Gary Kramer, INDIEWIRE an auction date will be set pending the he would often sleep on a hill at Marcus outcome of a hearing on April 26. So far, the Garvey Park -- just one block east of the “VIVID center has raised $330,000 and hopes that Atlah church. AND FRESH. if they win the bid, it will be enough to put a Siciliano said that for years the church The other star of the fi lm is Havana itself.” down payment on the property, which has a has put up odd messages, such as claiming Casper Llewellyn Smith, THE GUARDIAN lien of $1.02 million. Obama was a Muslim, but it was more of a “About half of the young people who freedom of speech issue. Later, the pastor come into AFC have been thrown out started putting up “virulently homophobic because of the religious beliefs of their signs” and messages calling for violence families,” said Carl Siciliano, the founder against LGBT people. With their namesake and executive director of the center. “Even being an activist who was shot in the head,

VFINDI YOURV VOICEA though [these signs seem] really out there, and a transgender woman, Islan Nettles, unfortunately there are lot of parents in beaten to death in Harlem in 2013, violence this country who are lead to believe things against LGBT people is a real fear. like this.” Community activists lead the charge, The center is named for activist Ali protesting in front of the church as well Forney, who used to sleep on the grounds as raising funds for LGBT teens. Siciliano of Marcus Garvey Park. Homeless since he brought the kids from his shelters to see was 13, the gender non-conforming teen how everyone was standing up for them. lived on the streets and got by on survival “I just see it as very dangerous and sex and drugs. However, at the age of 17 he [inciting] to call for violence against lgbt STARTS FRIDAY, APRIL 29 started to turn his life around when he went people and I feel like it really puts our young FORT LAUDERDALE MIAMI THE CLASSIC GATEWAY THEATRE O CINEMA WYNWOOD to Siciliano’s Safe Space drop-in center. He people at a great deal of risk,” Siciliano said. 1820 E Sunrise Blvd (954) 763-7994 90 NW 29th St (305) 571-9970 AVENTURA MIAMI BEACH AMC AVENTURA 24 REGAL SOUTH BEACH STADIUM 18 went back out on the streets, this time to 19501 Biscayne Blvd amctheatres.com 1120 Lincoln Rd (844) 462-7342 #198 MIAMI MIAMI LAKES COBB DOLPHIN 19 COBB MIAMI LAKES 17 11471 NW 12th St (305) 591-0785 6711 Main St (305) 558-3810 To donate and learn more about the Ali Forney Center, visit AliForneyCenter.org. MIAMI SOUTH MIAMI MDC TOWER THEATER AMC SUNSET PLACE 24 1508 SW 8th St (305) 237-2463 5701 Sunset Dr amctheatres.com

16 • 4.27.2016

2.375" X 5.25" WED 4/27 FT. LAUDERDALE - S FLA GAY NEWS DUE FRI 12PM ET

Artist: (circle one:) AE: (circle one:) ART APPROVED Emmett Heather Carrie Jane Josh AE APPROVED Ronnie Steve MariaTim CLIENT APPROVED

Con rmation #: news miami-dade

Photos: Facbeook.

GAY ADVOCATE REP. RICHARDSON HOSTS TOWN HALL Anthony Beven

n what he called an opportunity to exchange services sourced in these states until the laws ideas and get feedback on the issues most are repealed or declared unconstitutional by Iimportant to the community, state rep. the court system. David Richardson held an open forum town hall Richardson said that he reminds his meeting at the Miami Beach Golf Club on the colleagues of situations like this around the evening of April 14. country to keep anti-LGBT bills from becoming Richardson, an openly gay Democrat, began law. the meeting with a re-cap of the most recent “The Miami Beach ordinance is exactly legislative session in Tallahassee. “Let’s talk about the kind of message that we need to send to some things that happened, and didn’t happen,” Tallahassee,” he said. he said, noting that an $82.3 billion budget was Other hot-topics brought up during the town passed – the largest ever in Florida. hall included: Gov. Rick Scott, a Republican, did not get the $1 CLASS SIZE LIMITS. Richardson said billion in tax cuts he hoped for, Richardson said. there wasn’t enough conversation on it this “We can’t aff ord it,” he said, adding that the tax past session but said it’s an important one to cuts were around $120 million – less than $400- be had. He said 90 percent of the schools in $500 million in previous years. Miami-Dade are exempt from class size limit Scott also didn’t get his wish for $250 million due to the way they are currently classifi ed. tax incentives for businesses to move to Florida. EXPRESS LANES AT I-95 AND 41ST “We’re paying people to move here, but not doing STREET. Commissioner Michael Grieco of anything to keep businesses already here. It’s not Miami Beach said it’s been deemed unsafe fair,” Richardson said. due to drivers switching back and forth. On the LGBT front, Richardson said Richardson said he’s spoken to constituents congressional and state senate re-districting will for it and against. FDOT, he said, is looking at a create more of a balance of power by allowing solution, but it will be costly and result in major either pro-equality or openly gay politicians to construction. take offi ce throughout the state. STATE OF THE BEACH. One resident “We’re within striking distance,” he said, said, “It looks like an ashtray.” Richardson adding that the other benefi t is some far-right said due to lobbying from tobacco companies Republicans are moving to more moderate it’s unlikely there will be a ban on smoking at stances on progressive issues to align with the the beach. He added that the incoming speaker views of their constituencies to keep their seats. owns a cigar company and actively works When Richardson asked for questions, Miami against any public smoking bans. Beach resident Owen Carhart asked him, “Are we SEA-LEVEL RISING. “At the state level going to see the re-introduction of ‘bathroom’ or is anyone acknowledging we have the most ‘religious freedom’ bills?” to lose?” one resident asked Richardson. He He said that one House member is trying to said that through sales tax, South Beach is push through a bathroom bill currently, but does the top-third contributor to the state but re- not have a sponsor in the Senate. Until he does, distributing the wealth to address issues like the bill won’t move forward to be voted on. this is a big challenge. “They don’t want to touch it with a 10-foot UBER. Another resident expressed her pole,” Richardson said, applauding the City of concerns to Richardson about the ride-share Miami Beach’s recently passed ordinance that service. This included holding Uber to the bans travel to North Carolina and Mississippi same standards as taxi cab companies, as well after both states passed LGBT discriminatory safety and liability issues. Richardson said laws. they are working on bills, but added, “They are Also banned is the purchase of goods or spending a lot of money on lobbyists.”

Anthony Martinez Beven covers Miami-Dade County for SFGN. He can be reached at [email protected].

4.27.2016 • 17 news national Photo: Nigel Parry for CNN.

CLINTON, TRUMP TAKE NEW YORK Lisa Keen Keen News Service A closer look at how the LGBT community voted

ed Cruz suffered the consequences and Matthew Titone; New York City mayoral Ultra-conservative commentator Glenn of deriding “New York values,” John candidate Christine Quinn. She was also ‘PEOPLE LIKE THAT’ Beck tried to soften Cruz’s harsh edges, TKasich won a little support while endorsed by openly LGBT New York City too. He quoted Cruz as saying he “chewed speaking out against anti-gay laws, and Councilmembers Daniel Dromm, Corey What made the run-up to the New York my staff out” for booking the candidate Donald Trump raked in nearly all the Johnson, Rosie Mendez, Jimmy Van Bramer, primary particularly interesting was all the on the same stage with virulently anti-gay chips from Tuesday’s New York primary by and James Vacca. And she also won the talk about gay issues on the Republican side. speaker Kevin Swanson early in the contest. keeping a mostly muddled middle ground endorsement of the Stonewall Democratic In a town hall forum with CNN’s Anderson Swanson told the audience that gays should on rights for LGBT people. Club of NYC. Cooper April 13, Cruz tried to redefine what be executed. In the Democratic primary, where both A New York Times map of how various he criticized in January as “New York values.” Beck said he and his daughter were candidates have long-standing records of New York City neighborhoods voted, Many groups had taken offense at Cruz’s use meeting with Cruz when his daughter asked respecting LGBT people, Hillary Clinton showed Clinton taking 68 percent of the vote of the term, including LGBT people who read Cruz why he appeared on the same stage such held nearly all the backing from LGBT in heavily gay Chelsea, compared to Sanders’ it as code for acceptance of LGBT people and a man. Beck said Cruz told his daughter that leaders. She, too, trounced her opponent, 32 percent. She got 66 percent, versus their equality under the law. he considered that speaker “reprehensible,” Bernie Sanders. Sanders’ 34 percent, in the West Village But Cruz told Cooper he was only “bigoted,” and “despicable.” With big wins in the New York primary, and SoHo. (By comparison Clinton won 79 repeating the phrase Trump had used in “I want nothing to do with him or any Clinton and Trump have significantly percent of the vote in Wilton Manors). 1999 in regards to partial birth abortion. kind of alliances to people like that,” Beck tightened their grip on their parties’ Even an untidy, self-selected survey of Cruz said he used the term to describe said Cruz told him and his daughter. presidential nominations. men in New York using a gay dating app “liberal Democrats who have been, frankly, Two days before the primary, appearing on Former Secretary of State Clinton now found that most were supporting Clinton. hurting the people of New York over and ABC’s Good Morning America, Cruz tackled has 80 percent of the 2,383 delegates she The “data” collected by Scruff showed that, over again.” a question from a man in the television needs to secure the Democratic presidential of 765 men who responded, 57 percent said He then shifted his defense of the audience who said he was leaning toward nomination; U.S. Senator Sanders has 52 they would be voting for Clinton, 32 percent term onto an Hispanic African American voting for Trump. The man, Todd Calongne, percent. for Sanders, four percent “undecided” but pastor and state senator, Ruben Diaz. He identified himself as being married to his Real estate titan Trump has 68 percent voting for a Democrat, and four percent for paraphrased Diaz as telling him in Spanish husband for two years. of the 1,237 delegates he needs to win the Trump. Almost two percent said they would that he understood what Cruz was trying to Calongne said he noticed “religious Republican nomination; U.S. Senator Cruz vote for Kasich. Less than one percent (three say. freedom laws” and institutionalized has 45 percent; Ohio Governor Kasich has 12 people) backed Cruz. “He said, ‘I know exactly what you mean discrimination” laws around the country. percent. At an LGBT fundraiser in New York City by New York values because,’ he said, ‘I’m “What would you do as president Clinton boasted the endorsement of March 30, openly gay actors Guillermo a Democrat… and my Democratic governor, to protect me and my husband from most well-known LGBT leaders in the state, Díaz and Cynthia Nixon were on hand to Andrew Cuomo, said if you are pro-life, if institutionalized discrimination?” including State Senator Brad Hoylman, New welcome the candidate. you believe in traditional marriage, if you “When it comes to religious liberty,” York State Assembly members Deborah Former State Senator Tom Duance believe in the Second Amendment, you have said Cruz, “religious liberty is something Glick, Daniel O’Donnell, Harry Bronson, endorsed Sanders. no place in the state of New York’.” that protects everyone. …All of us, we want

18 • 4.27.2016 news national to live in a world where we don’t have happened in Indiana,” Georgia, and the government dictating our beliefs, Mississippi –states that have passed laws dictating how we live. We have a right to to allow discrimination against LGBT live according to our faith, according to our people. conscience, and that freedom ultimately “In my state, fi rst of all, I want no protects each and every one of us. And discrimination against anybody. I’m not MARCH ISSUE we shouldn’t have the right to force others in favor of discrimination, period, end of to knuckle under and give up their faith story,” said Kasich. and give up their belief. And for me, I “Secondly, the Supreme Court ruled, have spent my entire adult life fi ghting to you know, in favor of gay marriage. I’m defend religious liberty, fi ghting to defend a traditional marriage guy. But the court the right of every one of us to seek out ruled. I’m allowing a court ruling to stand. and worship God. And I think keeping I’m not looking for some constitutional government out of the way of your lives amendment. It’s done.” protects the freedom of everyone of us.” “Now, our religious institution should There was a scattering of applause be protected. They should be able to do VISIT SFGN.COM TO SEE but show co-host Robin Roberts, who is the things they want,” continued Kasich. WHERE TO FIND YOUR COPY openly gay, jumped in. The town hall audience interrupted with “But when you talk about freedom,” applause, but Kasich quieted them to she said, reminding Cruz that Calongne add the rest of his thought –concerning has a husband, “a lot of people would say, discrimination by commercial entities. ‘Doesn’t everybody have “Let’s say I’m running a the freedom to be treated cupcake store. Somebody equally?’” “In my state, comes in, they want to buy “Of course we do,” cupcake,” said Kasich. “Sell said Cruz, “and the First fi rst of all, them a cupcake! OK?!” Amendment protects I want no “Secondly, though, if JOIN US! everyone equally.” He then discrimination I’m a photographer and leapt into a discussion of you want me to go to your GGAYAY & LELESBIANSBIAN BUBUSINESSSINESS EXCHANGEEXCHANGE kosher delis. against wedding and I don’t want This time, co-host anybody. I’m to, you know, then, go fi nd George Stephanopoulos not in favor of another photographer, entered the fray. He noted okay?” that Cruz supports eff orts discrimination, Kasich said he thought to repeal the U.S. Supreme period, end of “things were going along Court’s ruling against quite well after the state bans on marriage for story.” Supreme Court decision” same-sex couples. - John Kasich against state bans on “What would that mean marriage for same-sex for couples like Todd and couples but that some his husband who already are married?” he people “were using… this to some degree asked. as a wedge issue.” “Well, look, I’m a constitutionalist,” “Now, if in my state, I fi nd that we have said Cruz, “and under the constitution, a problem -- I mean a real problem; not marriage is a question for the states. …So a case here and a case there, but a real if somebody wants to change the marriage problem where things are coming apart-- laws, I don’t think fi ve unelected lawyers of course, we have to do something about down in Washington dictating that. … that,” said Kasich. He did not suggest what If you want to change the marriage laws, kind of “something” he might consider AFTER HOURS NETWORKING convince your fellow citizens to change but he suggested he would be inclined to the laws.” “Number one, to respect the position of Thursday May 12, 2016 RIVA On the other end of the Republican those in the gay community, and secondly, 5:30 pm - 7:00 pm 1200 East Las Olas Blvd. candidates’ political spectrum, at least to try to fi gure out what you do about Fort Lauderdale 33301 as far as it concerns LGBT people, Kasich religious liberty.” Free valet will be provided. was continuing his double mantra of “I’m “But I have to tell you,” concluded Admission for traditional marriage” and “I want no Kasich, “when you get in the middle of SPONSORED BY: Members: Complimentary discrimination against anybody.” that, there’s no easy answer. So you know Non-members: $10 At town meeting campaign event April what I kind of think? Let it go. …Respect 11, carried by ABC News, an audience people -- that they are diff erent than we Register at www.ftlchamber.com member asked Kasich “As president of are because that’s just the way it is. And to the United States, what would you do to get into these business of ‘I’m not gonna For phone registration or general information call Event Coordinator protect our lesbian, gay, bisexual, and serve you because you’re a certain [audio Doug Frens - 954 462 2570 - [email protected] transgender youth?” not clear], c’mon folks. We have to live MEDIA SUPPORT Kasich acknowledged “what’s together….How about a little bit more LOCAL NAME. GLOBAL COVERAGE. happening in North Carolina, what tolerance, a little bit more respect.” SOUTHFLORIDAGAYNEWS.COM

4.27.2016 • 19 news national AMERICA’S TOP GAY DIPLOMAT GIVES STATUS REPORT John McDonald

andy Berry, special envoy for the human rights of LGBTI persons, updated Rreporters on the status of his office’s mission, saying he’s engaged in “challenging Positive developments, mentioned by conversations with foreign government Berry, included the decriminalization of adult officials.” same-sex behavior by the African country of Berry, the U.S. State Department’s point Mozambique, a meeting with the Secretariat man on persons who identify as lesbian, gay, of State at the Vatican and the addition of bisexual, transgender or intersex, said those Argentina as the 12th partner in the Global challenging talks centered on discriminatory Equality Fund. legislation, stigma and violence. Nearly 80 The Global Equality Fund, Berry said, is a countries criminalize LGBTI status or conduct, multi-stakeholder fund to support civil society Berry said. Of special danger is Saudi Arabia, organizations to advance LGBTI rights. Berry, a which still imposes the death penalty for LGBTI foreign service officer since 1993, was appointed persons. to his special envoy position by U.S. President The governments in Nigeria and Russia, Barack Obama and Secretary of State John Kerry Berry said, are moving in a hostile direction by in April of 2015. passing draconian laws that “undermine human “I am confident that our collective efforts rights for all people, not just LGBTI individuals.” will help support a world in which everyone Berry’s remarks were delivered at a United is afforded the dignity, the freedom and the Nations press conference last week in Geneva, equality they rightfully deserve,” Berry said. Switzerland.

Now Open

20 • 4.27.2016 4.27.2016 • 21 CONVICTIONS Publisher's Editorial

RUNAWAYS ON A ROAD TO NOWHERE Norm Kent [email protected]

rove by the beach on the way to work and expose it to public review. Community a comprehensive guide for advocates, policy at the stars and stripes, we can’t forget about all today. leaders- happy to say I was one of them- came makers, service providers, and funders working those people still stuck in spider webs here on D Nice breeze, blue oceans, clear skies, together to fi ght for a runaway shelter on the to end homelessness among LGBT youth. the sands, where every turn becomes another and beautiful hotels now gracing the skyline of Fort Lauderdale Beach. Though there was lots The fi rst-of-its-kind online publication trap. Let’s not worry so much about trade deals Fort Lauderdale. But what I am overlooking? of opposition from local businesses afraid the highlights innovative approaches to supporting with China. Let’s worry about getting America’s This week, SFGN correspondent Christiana sharks would scare off tourists, we got our way. youth experiencing homelessness, provides children security and safety here at home. Lilly has a featured piece on a new documentary, Eventually, Covenant House opened for case studies of replicable and successful models, Find some time to watch the documentary “A Road to Home,” taking a look at LGBT runaway youths on the Fort Lauderdale Beach. as well as concrete solutions to ending LGBT ‘A Road to Home’ this week. The fi lm recently homelessness. Sadly, it’s a story that has been Today, their facility still stands under the youth homelessness. won the monthly fi lm contest at the Miami told year in and year out, for decades and shadow of new and spectacular rising hotels. “Close to 40 percent of youth that experience Independent Film Festival. It’s not just a fi lm, decades. The beach survived. Many kids homelessness identify as LGBTQ,” said Meghan though. It’s about life, full of scars and strife, and Years ago, South Florida have not. Maury, National LGBTQ Task Force’s Criminal maybe on the side of the shore we don’t always beaches were populated The sun that tans also burns. and Economic Justice Project Director. “There see. with runaway kids, living Kids that cruise the beach often are many factors that in bushes with no place to The wind up not on surfboards, but contribute to LGBTQ go. The story drew national wandering aimlessly with no youth homelessness, attention. In the 1970s, problems purpose. Many LGBT youth fi nd including family Editorial Cartoon By Andy Marlette Geraldo Rivera even did a themselves so situated. It is not a rejection, abuse, aging national feature on ABC’s we faced pretty picture. For them, the beach out of foster care, ‘Nightline’ about homeless is full of blisters not sunbathers. economic hardship, youth in Fort Lauderdale. yesterday The problems we faced bullying and school WSVN Television, even a yesterday we face again today. harassment,” she added. powerhouse back then, won we face As Joni Mitchell says in her song, Our beach is beautiful. a Green Eyeshades Award ‘life is a circle game, and the Palm trees sway back for outstanding journalism again seasons, they go round and round.’ and forth in the breeze, by featuring an outstanding Sometimes, the sun blinds you but so too do lives segment on the issue, put today. to what is really happening, but hang in the balance together by Carmel Cafi ero, the issues of teenage prostitution, for homeless LGBT today still a top journalist homelessness, and runaways youth. In a month or so, and consumer aff airs reporter. It illuminated are recurring. We simply provide salve on the hundreds of thousands the truth that many of the runaways were wounds. There is always more to be done. of tourists and South homosexual youths staying alive by selling their To its credit, this week, the National Florida residents will bodies on street corners. LGBTQ Task Force and the True Colors Fund crowd the beach for our Congressman Alcee Hastings, even then a launched a collaborative resource for advocates spectacular air and sea progressive juvenile court judge, conducted working to support LGBT youth experiencing show. It’s an amazing public hearings in the Broward County homelessness. visual tour of American Courthouse, coordinated with child advocacy “At the Intersections,” is a new online power and might. groups, in order to get a handle on the problem, resource guide written by 47 contributors. It is As we are looking up

22 • 4.27.2016 4.27.2016 • 23 CONVICTIONS Transforming Gender

CHANGING THE NARRATIVE Rebecca Juro [email protected] Trans United Fund launches to give Trans people a voice

t was a very diff erent world for the national When we’re attacked and mistreated, at least to get trans people involved in the political the Empire State Pride Agenda have ended trans equality movement when I came out some people care and even take action. process as well as endorse candidates who up underserved and underfunded as issues Iin 1997, and it wasn’t just about media Of course, there’s a dark side to all this support the equality and fair treatment of on the wish list of wealthy gay donors have or politics. Trans people of my generation progress, too. We’ve become political targets. trans people and initiatives of importance been given precedence over those of the trans who were politically active understood that With same-sex marriage now the law of the to trans people dealing with issues such community. socially, politically, and culturally, we were land, a signifi cant portion of those who once as homelessness, anti-trans violence, HIV- Hayden Mora, one of the leaders of the virtually invisible as a minority interest. The formed the LGBT community donor base AIDS, and the treatment of trans people in Trans United Fund, told us “Trans United disadvantages of that reality were obvious, have abandoned the working class, with trans immigrant detention. Fund includes one of the most diverse arrays but there were advantages people in particular left behind This organization will be staff ed and of Trans leaders assembled for any national as well. Bob Dylan was right: to take the brunt of bigoted right- run entirely by trans people, and focused organization including the likes of NTAC When you’ve got nothing, wing attacks. exclusively on trans people and relevant veteran Monica Roberts, CEO and President you’ve nothing got to lose. Despite all that progress, in issues, setting it apart from the vast majority of the Trans Latina Coalition Bamby Salcedo, Our political organizations Despite some ways very little has changed. of previous transgender advocacy eff orts. longtime political operative Andrea Jenkins, and activists struggled to Many wealthy cisgender gays With the singular exception of the National military veteran Brynn Tannehill and others.” be heard in a cultural and all that and lesbians who feel they now Transgender Advocacy Coalition, which “More and more, we’ve heard from major political environment that progress, have what they need and can buy focuses on federal issues and public education, organizations that they care about our lives, really didn’t consider us their way out of any remaining the Trans United Fund is the only organization as we step into this new moment, now is the relevant or worth fi ghting in some discrimination they may face of national scope that focuses exclusively on time we need them to make good on that for. Pretty much everything apparently feel little or no the trans community and the only one run commitment.” added trans immigration was organized online, with ways very inclination to support those in our exclusively by trans people, by our community activist Bamby Salcedo. only the end results of that community’s working class who for our community. A new organization, created to help lead a organizing taking place in little has are still fi ghting for fair and equal While that last point may seem a bit petty new generation of trans advocacy. The cause the offl ine world. treatment. Even before Obergefell, to some, it matters. Too often in the past, is right, the people are right, and the timing Sometimes, I really miss changed. it’s a story we’ve seen play out eff orts at promoting the interests of trans is downright perfect. It’s time to put aside the those days. over and over in states like New people by organizations with a broader LGBT acrimony of the past, unite as a community, Today, it’s not so easy. Hampshire, Connecticut, and focus like the Human Rights Campaign or and fi nally get the job done. We can’t operate like that even New York. anymore, and for good reason. It’s now almost Finally, a new national organization has Rebecca Juro is a nationally-published freelance journalist and radio talk a generation later, and after a lot of hard work surfaced to help break this cycle. Enter the show host who is the Media Correspondent for The Advocate website. Her the trans community is in a diff erent place. Trans United Fund, a new 501(c)(4), formed in work has appeared in the Huffi ngton Post, the Washington Blade, Gay City We’re political players now. Politicians legislate the wake of the passage of the virulently anti- News, the Albany Times Union, and The Advocate magazine, among others. with us in mind. When trans people speak, at trans Public Facilities Privacy and Security Act Rebecca lives in central New Jersey and shares her life with a somewhat least some people who matter actually listen. which is now the law in North Carolina, aims antisocial cat. Email: [email protected] Twitter: @beckyjuro

24 • 4.27.2016 community announcement

THE BIG GREEN ‘X’ Joe Imbrogno

f you haven’t noticed, The Greater Fort Inclusive Council” stand on their own in Lauderdale Chamber of Commerce’s intent and meaning. They also exemplify IGay and Lesbian Business Exchange the welcoming nature of the group and Council (GLBX) has a new logo. It builds on encourage people from all walks of life — the “parent” logo of the overall Chamber whatever their sexual orientation — to maintaining the general theme by using engage with the group for the betterment the same colors and complementary fonts. of all. In fact, the distinguishing elements of the But what about that big green “X” which GLBX Council were simply added to the underpins the overall Chamber’s logo? On base logo without tainting the original or a very basic level, it’s simply an element detracting from it. of visual continuity — think Apple, the Like every good logo, our goal with stylized Playstation “PS,” the Nike swoosh, the new GLBX emblem is to ensure it is the Jaguar jaguar, the Starbucks mermaid. unique, distinct; memorable, and instantly Over time, all of these symbols have recognized. We also hope that it is timeless, become synonymous with the brands they relevant, versatile, scalable and, most represent. No words necessary. They stand importantly, that it is meaningful! on their own. When you see them, you OK, at this point, you might be thinking, know what they are, what they represent, “Blah, blah, blah! Who cares?” what emotions they evoke. Fair enough. While all of the above is And so it will be true of our big green “X”! true, the real depth of the logo is visible Very bold and visually prominent, only once you look beneath the surface at this big green “X” also implies a very those things that require a second, third or fundamental connection between the fourth glance and a little more thought. LGBT business community and the Greater The GLBX Council is in the midst of a Fort Lauderdale community at large. It is a transformation, reinventing itself in 2016 connection that we expect to expand and as it evolves to meet the changing needs strengthen, building on the efforts of past of our community. With new leadership, a GLBX leaders and members. new vision, a new mission, and new goals, But it doesn’t begin and end there. the change in the logo is both symbolic and Perhaps most importantly, this big green necessary. “X” further substantiates the all-inclusive With a primary focus on bringing people nature of the group. Think of Algebra together, on creating bridges between the equations. Solve for x. Depending on the LGBT community and our allies, it is the equation, x could be anything—two, 10, Council’s vision to foster an environment 1,000 or 423,957. Yes, anything! that promotes connections, relationships, In our case, x means transgender and solutions and, ultimately, business. straight and me and ... YOU! After all, that’s really what a chamber of But don’t stop at our logo. Experience commerce is all about. the GLBX for yourself! Join our next event And the new logo perfectly exemplifies at Seawatch on the Ocean, located at 6002 that focus. North Ocean Boulevard on April 14 from For instance, the words “The All 5:30 p.m. to 7 p.m.

Follow the GLBX on Facebook www.facebook.com/fortlauderdaleglbx/ or contact the GLBX Council Chair, Karen Prescod at [email protected] to obtain more information on how to become a member.

4.27.2016 • 25 feature documentary Photos Courtesy of Lumiere Productions. ‘A ROAD TO HOME’ New documentary takes a look LGBT youth homelessness Christiana Lilly

alking to Penn Station to visit family in hit rock bottom, Skaggs showcases their resilience and He would shoot little by little, raising money to fund the New Jersey, Cal Skaggs always saw groups dreams for the future. project. of teenagers hanging around. Armed with The documentary recently won the monthly fi lm contest “Youth is full of scars … it’s been rough in many ways Wbackpacks and wandering around seemingly aimlessly, with the Miami Independent Film Festival. It’s now in the and being gay is the last strike. In other words you’re poor, Skaggs wondered what their story was. running to be a part of the 2017 contest edition. you’re a person of color, and you’re gay too, and it’s the last The answer came in 2012 when he saw an interview When the fi lmmaker approached Siciliano about strike and you’re out,” Skaggs said of the teens he came on a local cable station with Carl Siciliano, the founder of the project, he was skeptical at fi rst -- many people across. the Ali Forney Center, a homeless shelter for young LGBT have approached him with ambitious goals to make a “They have hopes and dreams just the same way we do, people. He explained that New York City alone has more documentary. The two met multiple times to go over and those dreams and hopes have not been destroyed by than 40,000 homeless kids -- a large percentage of them Skaggs’ vision for the documentary and discuss his past having to live on the street or the subway.” are LGBT. works -- including “With God on Our Side: The Rise of He encountered many moving moments talking with Moved by the statistic and the fact that he had walked by the Religious Right in America,” which received approval and fi lming the six teens (a seventh had committed to these kids so many times, Skaggs, the founder of Lumiere from viewers on both sides of the aisle -- Skaggs was able fi lming, then ran away unexpectedly), but the most was Productions decided to spread the word by making a to convince him that he would tell the kids’ stories fairly. with a young man named Benjamin. After a year of talking documentary -- “A Road to Home.” “I appreciated the humility of how he allows the subjects with Skaggs, he revealed an experience the fi lmmaker was “They come from families that get rid of them,” Skaggs of his documentaries to tell their own stories with minimal surprised he never brought up beforehand. explained. “What drew me to a deeper and deeper narration,” Siciliano said. “I believed he had the sensitivity For Siciliano, the fi lm captured the center’s hard times -- immersion in this subject and these people was they’re just and skill to convey the complexity of the struggles of our it lost a lot of federal funding due to the sequestration and like you and me. They have the same needs that we do for young people, and I trusted that he would portray them in a transgender client, Islan Nettles, was beaten to death. love and security.” terms of their common humanity, rather than objectifying “The fi lm does a wonderful job of showing the resilience “A Road to Home” follows the stories of six homeless some of the more lurid aspects of youth homelessness.” and hope of our young people in the face of very challenging LGBT teens. Thrown out of their homes, they get by on the From there, Skaggs started hanging out at the Ali Forney circumstances, as well as showing the beauty of the work streets and utilizing services from the Ali Forney Center, Center’s drop in locations, as well as where the teens would of helping these young people rebuild their lives,” he said. an LGBT homeless shelter. Even though they seem to have hang out, such as parks and the pier on the Hudson River. “Youth is full of scars … it’s been rough in many ways and being gay is the last strike. In other words you’re poor, you’re a person of color, and you’re gay too, and it’s the last strike and you’re out.” - Cal Skaggs

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4.27.2016 • 27 lifestyle retiring gay

UNDERSTANDING THE REAL COST OF YOUR RETIREMENT PLAN Ric Reily

This multi-part series, Retiring Gay, primarily considers the fi nancial steps to successful retirement. However, preparing emotionally for retirement is equally important to a happy, fulfi lling and successful retirement. Planning for retirement is your opportunity to reconsider day to day living. Insurance, investments, spending, savings, socializing, residence and many other considerations change. Reaching retirement with a well executed plan makes your transition to a post work life easier and more fulfi lling.

hen it comes to how much you pay in fees and lost returns during 40 years of saving. fees in your employer sponsored 401K Even plans at large companies may have fees WPlan, the company you work for makes that add up to major expenses. For example, let’s all the diff erence. Over the course of your 40 year say you work for large Company A while your career, you can pay tens of thousands of dollars in husband works for small Company B. You are the fees and reduced earnings, an amount that can be same age 25, have the same salary $55,000, same more than double the cost at other companies; all annual wage growth 3 percent, and you both put Celebrating our these fees being hidden from view and diffi cult to 10 percent your salaries in your employer’s 401K 6th Year on discern. plan each year. Wilton Drive! Each year, 401K plan participants pay After 40 years, you might have an account a percentage of their account balance for balance of about $830,000, while your husband New Patients administrative and investment management fees. would start retirement with a nest egg of about As your account balance grows, so do the fees you $740,000, $90,000 less. Your husband would pay. When starting in your company sponsored have to work an additional fi ve or six years just to retirement plan you will likely pay less than $100 catch up. in fees a year while your balance is low, but when Employees with plans charging high 401K fees $69 your account balance reaches $50,000, annual aren’t necessarily out of luck. Many plans will ($295 Value) Your smile fees can more than triple. By the time you retire, have a few low cost options. Participants should should the fees can be several thousand dollars a year. review all the plan’s investments to make sure Comprehensive leave a Some employees may face additional costs, they are getting the most cost eff ective funds. Exam, great including trading fees, particularly at smaller What some employees fail to realize is that you Digital X-Rays & companies. In addition to all of these fees are can save yourself a great deal of money in fees just Cleaning* impression! the earnings you could have realized had you by picking the right funds in your 401K. not been paying so much; because the fees are New federal rules were recently rolled out that stripped out of your account balance you lose the require plan providers to be more transparent opportunity to earn on the amount taken as fees. about the 401K fees they charge. But the A typical two-earner household can pay about increased fee disclosures have done little to $150,000 in fees and lost returns over a 40-year increase awareness among retirement savers. General & Cosmetic Dentistry career. The highest fees are typically at small Half of plan participants don’t know how much companies where managers have less power to they pay in annual fees, the same percentage that New, State of the Art Facilities•Most Insurances Accepted negotiate with fi nancial fi rms that provide 401K were in the dark before the increased disclosures plans. went into eff ect. Always Plenty of Free Parking•Located Conveniently on Wilton In these smaller company plans, average Many people think that just because they’re expense ratios are as high as 1.5% and can not writing a check for their 401K fees they don’t 954-565-7666 consume more than $200,000 in savings over exist. 401K plan providers do all they can to mask the course of 40 years. In contrast, a participant the true cost of your retirement plan and it is in the Thrift Savings Plan, a 401K style plan for incumbent upon you to do all you can to know Dr. David K. Warner, DDS, FAGD federal employees that charges fees of around as much as you can to keep more of your savings Fellow, Academy of General Dentistry 0.03 percent will likely pay less than $10,000 in working for you, not the plan manager.

1946 Wilton Drive •Wilton Manors • FL 33305 Missed a week? Don’t worry. Catch up at SFGN.com/RetiringGay to follow the series online. Ric Reily is the author of two books, Money Is The Root Of All - Skip The Debt Habit, and Gregory’s Hero. www.IslandCitySmiles.com You can reach him at [email protected] *In the absense of gum disease. Not applicable to insurance benefits.

28 • 4.27.2016 lifestyle tech addict

THREE APPS YOU CAN HOOKUP ON AND DIDN’T KNOW IT Chris Ayala

he list of dating apps has grown diffi cult to just do... a... simple... hookup. signifi cantly since 2009 when Nothing against the men interested in TGrindr fi rst made its debut. more than sex of course, but this is about Then the “Honey, I thought it was an skipping the awkward appetizer talk and app about making coff ee!” lies began. Now, getting straight to the meaty entree. Here the list of hookup apps is spreading worse are three apps (both iPhone and Android) than the Macarena craze. But I’ve noticed a that you may not be aware are great for trend in these new up-and-cumming (pun those desirable quickies. But remember... intended) apps where it’s becoming more always be safe!

Though not intentionally for hookups, this app has worked well for me. The whole premise BRO.is centered around making friends and fi nding “bromance.” Bromance is a term the straight guys made up so they can still fl irt with other men and tell their girlfriends it’s perfectly OK to touch another man’s crotch. The graphics interface is done quite well with the red plastic cups from the college drinking game called Beer Pong, where players try to land balls in their drinks (not the kind of balls I thought when I fi rst played). You start the app by logging in with Facebook then you decide what type of “Bro” you are like: Jock Bro, Brogrammer, and Preppy Bro. Yes, these may seem cheesy but I enjoyed that an app attempted to add fl avor to the stale repetition of dating UIs. You can fi ll out more in your bio like body type (Huskular, Jacked, etc) and what you’re looking for (Long-Term Bromance, Whatever Bro, etc). Then the app takes you to a list of locals where you can also see daily men who share similar interests. Even though I assume a lot of these men may be straight, there has been an abundance of them in that questioning phase which I’m glad to answer. Happy hunting, bro!

What sounds like some strange foreign way to cook a steak is actually the popular app Tinder.called Tinder. Login with your Facebook account and the app does the rest. It uploads your profi le pictures from Facebook, then starts you off with a list of local men. What makes this app unique is it’s easy to learn and fi nds the matches for you, so the more information in your profi le... the better. Swipe the picture left if the guy isn’t a match, or swipe right if he is. Doing this repeatedly will eventually fi nd those sexy matches and let the conversation begin. My only gripe was I found it annoying that the app shows men WAY outside of my area, even though location services is turned on. I suggest reading the profi le fi rst before you ask “Looking?”

We live in a digital age where advertisements stalk us, just like our High School Badoo.fag hags. “How do you know you won’t like it unless you try it?” Badoo is a good example of that trying-too-hard persistence, but it doesn’t hurt to make friends. Like the other apps in this list, create a profi le and get mingling with the local horny studs. I did like the access to the abundance of common interests because who wants to hookup with someone into Furries and Barbie Collecting? Have fun, but be careful where you touch or it may ask for some money, just like our High School fag hags.

Chris Ayala studied screenwriting and worked in television in Los Angeles before pursing his dream of writing novels. He currently resides in Fort Lauderdale where he’s published two series: the fantasy saga “The Last Days” and the gay concentration camp novella “Confinement.”

4.27.2016 • 29 feature personal stories

Per sonal Stor ies P r oject Christiana Lilly Share yours today

ne group is using the power of storytelling in the The second incident was when a friend’s daughter out. In fact, he remembers watching television with his battle for LGBT equality. messaged him on Facebook, telling him how good it made grandmother at age 12 when a gay character came on the O For just over two years, the Personal Stories her feel when she came out to her mother, who told her screen. Project has been a place for LGBT people to share their about Chan Massey. “My grandmother got up, walked over to the TV -- we stories, good and bad, to show that LGBT people are just “It still took [my mom] a while to become okay with me didn’t have remote controls in those days -- and changed that -- people. being gay but I feel like if she hadn’t known you, she would the channel,” he remembered. “I can’t be sure, but I’d say “I’m a strong believer in the power of the personal story,” still be holding back to this day,” her message read. that experience pushed me further into the closet for a said Charles Chan Massey, co-founder and executive These two experiences moved him and showed him how while. Even if I didn’t exactly know what it meant to be gay director. “Stories can change hearts and minds. Stories can powerful LGBT people telling their stories could impact at the time, I knew there was something diff erent about me start wars. Or stop them. Stories can change lives. I know somebody. In December 2013, Chan Massey founded and that reaction to a television character made me feel this to be true because they’ve changed mine.” the Personal Stories Project with friend, Sara Stevenson that whatever it was I was bad.” On the group’s site, people can read the fi rst-person Christie. After two years of sharing stories, the Personal Stories accounts of coming out, the ups and downs of teenage The group reached out to friends to share their stories of Project offi cially received its nonprofi t status. years, fi nding love, and LGBT allies showing support for coming out, what LGBT groups they were involved in, how “It’s a documented fact that personal stories helped loved ones. their family reacted, and and call to action of how others Justice Kennedy make his decision in the Obergefell v. The beginnings of the Personal Stories Project can be could help. Allies and parents of LGBT children also shared Hodges marriage equality case,” Chan Massey said. “In his traced to two moments. One, when Chan Massey watched a their own stories of loving an LGBT person. An 18-year-old opinion, he said that we deserved equal dignity in the eyes video telling the story of a man’s death and how his partner high school student, Morgan, shared how she was shunned of the law and that the constitution grants us that right. It had no rights, since they were not recognized as a couple in by her community when she decorated her locker in was because of personal stories that he was able to form the eyes of the law -- he realized how “sick and tired” he was support of gay marriage. that opinion.” of being treated like a “second-class citizen,” and he also Chan Massey has shared his own story as well, growing questioned what could happen to him and his own partner up as a gay man in the South without any LGBT role models Want to share your story? should either of them pass. and only hearing negative things about people who were Visit PersonalStoriesProject.org.

30 • 4.27.2016 LIFESAVER

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4.27.2016 • 31 lifestyle photos miami beaCh gaY PRiDe J.R. Davis a CeLebRation oF aCComPLishments both Past anD PResent

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32 • 4.27.2016 lifestyle photos

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4.27.2016 • 33 lifestyle books

SOUL SERENADE by Rashod Ollison Terry Schlichenmeyer

inyl is making a comeback. Those are fi ve words that put a smile $25.95 / $30.00 Canada Von a music afi cionado’s face. A CD isn’t the same, they say. An MP3 is nowhere near 230 pages as good. You don’t get the right sound unless c.2016, Beacon Press you’re spinning a record, so vinyl is coming back – but, for people like Rashod Ollison in “Soul Serenade,” it never really left. ignore that he was gay. There was once a time when “Dusty” School, by then, had joined music as a Ollison’s parents were happy. thing of refuge; Ollison excelled at his lessons, He knows it’s true; he has evidence of it, in achieved good grades, made friends, and the form of a picture taken at the beginning expanded his playlist. As he grew, he also of their marriage, which lasted thirteen wondered about his father sometimes but was years. When they split, he was old enough to largely indiff erent, even as the man lay dying. witness but too young to understand, having And then an aunt told Ollison something become inured to the fi ghts, the cheating, that made him change his tune. and the drinking at his home near Hot “Soul Serenade” starts where many good Springs, Arkansas. memoirs do: with a faded After Ollison’s father fl ed picture of a time that barely his family – leaving Ollison’s seems possible. From there, mother with a ‘tween and He denied we’re surprised by a death two small children – he rarely that promises to taint much of returned. But he left a gift feminine what’s to come, all wrapped in behind: stacks of vinyl. gestures family lore. Ollison says he remembers But don’t get complacent. poking around music stores and a Author Rashod Ollison doesn’t with his father, ogling covers, tender allow any lingering. Soon eager for approval of his heart. enough, his story becomes taste in performers. Chaka angry yelling, a smack upside Khan, Bobby Womack, Stevie the head, profanity, TV-as- Wonder, Ollison recalls babysitter, fi sts and sore fascination with their record labels spinning feet. We’re taken from neighborhood to on the turntable. Michael Jackson gave him neighborhood as the lights are shut off , the comfort, Aretha was a mood barometer, they rent isn’t paid, and he’s taunted with words all taught him about grown-up love through that his sister has to explain. It’s chaos – but lyrics. With his mother working two full-time it’s also a darn good tale that it doesn’t dissolve jobs to keep food on the table, Ollison counted into whining or poor-me-ing, testament to on music to anchor him. It was his means of Ollison’s storytelling skills. escape as his oldest sister took her rage out on “Soul Serenade” is one of those books that him, as his family moved repeatedly, as he was sticks in your brain – not only for the suggested bullied in school for “actin’ like a woman.” music, but because the memoir itself leaves its He denied feminine gestures and a tender mark. And if that sounds like solid gold to you, heart, but by age thirteen, he could no longer then give this book a spin.

34 • 4.27.2016 4.27.2016 • 35 lifestyle food Photos: Facebook

Bona 2468 Wilton Dr., Wilton Manors (954) 565-7222 bonaitalianrestaurant.com A BONA-FIED LANDMARK Rick Karlin

ona, the Italian restaurant that has Italian combo, tuna and provolone and just plentiful, featuring; eggplant rollatini, fried And that brings me to my major complaints been perched near the north end about any combination of meat and cheese calamari and mussels marinara as well as about Bona, the unpolished service and Bof Wilton Drive since 1979, isn’t you can imagine Caesar and antipasto salads. To tell you the lack of ambiance. Look, I don’t expect the a fancy place, and that’s Lunch specials, many truth, portions are big here and all dinners kind of service you’d get at a fine dining perfectly fine by me. Don’t classic pasta dishes such as come with a choice of soup or salad, so I restaurant, but when a diner shows you a get me wrong, I like upscale baked ziti, lasagna, stuffed never order appetizers. The same goes for dish swimming in water, you apologize and gourmet Italian as much as Who doesn’t like shells, manicotti (both with dessert, and I still end up taking home more take it back to the kitchen. Even if they had the next Guiseppi, but there a choice of cheese or spinach than enough for a second meal. just poured the water off and re-plated the are times when you want an afternoon stuffing) and spaghetti, For dinner service, you’ll find just about dish that would have been an improvement. to have a relaxed evening, delight are served with a choice of every classic Italian-American pasta Don’t get me wrong, the servers are friendly, with familiar dishes without soup or salad and priced variation possible on the menu, all available just not as efficient or polished as they breaking the bank. If that’s featuring a nice less than $10. Eggplant and with the addition of meatballs, sausage or should be. The same goes for the ambiance what you’re looking for, then piece of meat? chicken parm entrees are grilled chicken. Deciding to be adventurous, in the dining room. It’s perfectly fine, but it’s time to get Bona-fied! a tad more, but both come a friend recently ordered the boneless without warmth, character. It’s just not as Stop in at lunch-time with pasta as well. For your chicken breast; sauteed in white wine with polished as it could be. It lacks the charm for a real bargain. Who first course, your best bet spinach onions and mushrooms. The dish that makes a good neighborhood restaurant doesn’t like an afternoon delight featuring is the soup – fresh and made in house. The was pleasant tasting and the food fresh, but into a fantastic one. a nice piece of meat? If you’re looking for salads are rather lackluster, and every time it was marred by the fact that it was standing I dine at Bona because it’s cheap and something to grab with both hands, the subs I’ve visited, they seemed to have been in the in a pool of water. When we pointed this out convenient, especially when I’m going to and Stromboli are all amply portioned (and fridge about a day too long. The meals come to the server, she responded with, “Oh that’s Island City Stage around the corner, but in a if you don’t want meat, there are vegetarian with Bona’s amazing garlic rolls, although if not water it’s the wine sauce.” Since we were town with dozens of other places competing options). For a hot sub, consider the you’re headed back to work, ask for the rolls pressed for time, he let it go. We tasted the for your business, you’ve got to step things meatball, veal, chicken, eggplant or sausage without garlic-they’re so good you won’t liquid on his plate and let me tell you, even up a notch. parm, steak and onions with provolone or miss it. Jesus couldn’t have turned that much water a Cajun chicken. Cold options include an At dinner the starter options are more into wine sauce.

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4.27.2016 • 37 38 • 4.27.2016 4.27.2016 • 39 FOR THE SFGWEEK OF APR IL 28 - NMA Y 3, I2016TES WWW.SFGN.COM

J.W. Arnold [email protected] THU 4/28 HISTORY The World AIDS Museum and Educational Center hosts the opening night reception for “Saving Grace: A Multimedia Exhibit Confronting the HIV/AIDS Epidemic in the Black Community,” tonight at 6:30 p.m. at the Old Dillard Museum, 1009 NW 4th St. in Fort Lauderdale. Five leaders of the local black HIV/AIDS community will also be honored at the reception. $5 donation requested. Info at WorldAIDSMuseum.org. FRI 4/29 CONCERT The Master Chorale of South Florida, under the direction of Brett Karlin, performs Franz Joseph Haydn’s masterpiece, the “Lord Nelson” Mass, tonight at 8 p.m. at Coral Ridge Presbyterian Church, 5555 N. Federal Highway in Fort Lauderdale. The performance will also be repeated Saturday in Miami What if homosexuality was the norm in society and heterosexuality was treated as and Sunday in Boca Raton. Tickets are a sin? That’s the premises behind “Love Is All You Need,” one of the featured films at $30 in advance and $35 at the door at MasterChoraleofSouthFlorida.org. the MiFo LGBT Film Festival, closing this weekend in Miami Beach. Submitted photo. SAT 4/30 SUN 5/1 MON 5/2 TUE 5/3 FILM ART THEATER COMMUNITY Head to the Albion Hotel, 1650 James “Familiars,” an exhibition of the The Miller Center, 5202 University The Pride Center, 2040 N. Dixie Ave. in Miami Beach, tonight at 9:30 evocative contemporary paintings Drive on the campus of the University Highway in Wilton Manors, hosts p.m. for the MiFo LGBT Film Festival of Jean-Paul Mallozzi, is currently of Miami, and GableStage host a “Hear their Stories: Learning for closing party after the screening of on display at the Art and Culture special reading from Andre Schwarz- LGBT Seniors’ Life Experiences,” “Love is All You Need” at 7:30 p.m. Center of Hollywood, 1650 Harrison Bart’s moving novel, “The Last of tonight at 7 p.m. in the main hall. The at the Colony Theater, 1040 Lincoln St. in Hollywood. Mallozi, who was the Just.” The award-winning book, event, cosponsored by SAGE and Road. Meet the filmmakers and born and raised in Queens, New published in 1959, follows the men of Our Fund, will include eight videos actors and enjoy music and light bites. York, explores the broad spectrum of the Levy family over eight centuries, featuring lessons of resilience, strength The festival, one of the largest in the the human condition while revealing culminating with the death of the last and hope. The interactive session country, closes on Sunday, May 1. the concept that emotions are in the holocaust. The reading begins combines digital storytelling with a For tickets and a full festival schedule, amorphous, emitting color. More info at 7:30 p.m. More info at Miami.edu/ compelling panel discussion. More info go to MiFoFilm.com. at JeanPaulMallozzi.com. Miller-Center. at PrideCenterFlorida.org.

40 • 4.27.2016 “The event of the year” Friday, May 13 • 7 pm Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Cocktail Reception • Seated Dinner • Live Entertainment • Black Tie Optional Tickets $175 per person available at diversityhonors.com

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4.27.2016 • 41 a&e television BRAVO SETS SAIL AGAIN, DISHING UP DRAMA, LGBT CAST MEMBER J.W. Arnold

ravo’s unscripted series, “Below Deck” Jen Riservato is one of the new cast sets sail again next week with new and members embarking on Bravo’s “Below Breturning crew and an itinerary that Deck Mediterranean” next Tuesday. promises plenty of drama on the high seas. Joining the crew is Jen Riservato, an openly gay deck hand, who has spent plenty of time in South Florida in between her tours of duty on the yachts of the megawealthy. The native New Yorker promises a thrilling season for dedicated viewers of the series. “Oh, God, it’s pretty exciting,” said the 28-year-old about the seven week gig. “Living with people on a yacht is like living Credit: Bravo. with people in a trailer, it’s stressful.” Riservato admitted that the latest season, set in the Mediterranean Sea, will not disappoint. “There are a few things that we’ve all done that we’re not proud of, whether it’s a fi ght or we got pissed off at someone,” she said. For Riservato, who as a deck hand is working in a job traditionally held by men, there was an added challenge—she was the only LGBT crewmember on the luxury Robinson was pleased to be cast in the new yacht. series and feels “Below Deck Mediterranean” “I wouldn’t say it’s hard because the is the best yet. people in the yachting industry are pretty “I was the veteran and, with that, I think open minded, but I don’t see that many gays that it kind of empowered me and I became and lesbians,” she explained. “I was pretty more responsible in terms of having crew out from day one, but I’ll just leave it at that.” members under my wings. I liked that Riservato was tight-lipped about any position. I like being the mediator and trying sparks that might fl y during the upcoming to instill confi dence in people,” he explained. season. The centrally-located ship’s galley is a “There’s romance on the show, but I didn’t natural place for the drama to “cook.” tell you that,” she said with a slight chuckle. “It doesn’t diff er with many households Like viewers, she’s eagerly waiting to see where the kitchen is the hearth of the what scenes survived the editing room. household. The action and the smells Riservato would even consider fi lming are very alluring, but I would also say, another season. locationally, the kitchen is in the middle “I’d defi nitely consider another season, of the boat with proximity to the crew but for now I’m taking a little break,” she quarters,” said Robinson. “That’s how I lure said. them into the kitchen.” The only returning cast member from the Robinson, who is home again in Fort previous seasons in the Caribbean is chef Lauderdale, is currently operating his own Ben Robinson. catering company and cooking for a variety Viewers remember when he was called in of private events across the country thanks last season following a feud between chief to his new fame. He’s also eyeing other steward Kate Chastain and chef Leon Walker opportunities to return to television. that ended when Walker abruptly stormed “I’ve spoken to my peers and my producers off the boat. and everyone feels my place should be on “I had been in touch with Kate, who made television, whether it’s an entirely new spin- it clear the relationship was tumultuous,” he off away from the boat or my own cooking recalled. show,” the 30-year-old said.

“Below Deck Mediterranean” premieres on Tuesday, May 3 at 9 p.m. EDT on Bravo. Check local listings for channels.

42 • 4.27.2016 a&e theater

Playwright David Dillon Submitted photo.

TWO DECADES LATER, PLAY STILL SPEAKS TO LGBT LIVES J.W. Arnold

t’s been two decades since the Off feelings of love, lust, guilt and regret. Broadway premiere of David Dillon’s play, At the time, The Advocate called the play I“Party,” but the story about a group of gay “one of the most uplifting and affi rming friends still rings true. representations of gay life on any stage ever.” Dillon, who was active as a director at that The play will receive its fi rst production in time in Chicago, had been looking for a new more than 13 years this spring at Empire Stage gay-themed play. in Fort Lauderdale. “All of the plays that were out there dealt “I think now it’s a bit of a period piece. with the dark side of being gay—death, I didn’t realize it at the time, but (the play) AIDS, homophobia, bashing,” he recalled. “I was fi rmly rooted in the early ‘90s. I actually thought, wow, is this really the perspective stopped approving productions in 2003,” these writers have on gay life?” Dillon said. In 1992, the LGBT community had begun He added, “Not enough time had passed emerging from “a horribly dark decade,” for it to ring true. It’s not so much that there Dillon admitted. Sex had changed from are events in the play that are specifi c to the “a celebration into something that was time, but it’s very much a sensibility of a place dangerous. Never before had sex and death in history.” been so closely related.” Last fall, Dillon pulled the play out for a The playwright decided to draft his own reading and realized the time was fi nally story based on his own circle of friends, right. Coincidentally, fellow playwright absent the homosexual self-loathing of Ronnie Larsen (“Making Porn”) approached Mart Crowley’s “Boys in the Band” or the him about reviving the show in South Florida. sobering view of gay life in the era of AIDS “I’m actually excited about the portrayed in Terence McNally’s “Love! Valor! collaboration,” said Dillon. “Ronnie saw the Compassion!” original production and there’s something for “My friends were well-adjusted, happy me about the fact that here we are so many people. I wanted to show the fl ip side of what years later and Ronnie is passionate about everybody else was writing about,” he said. doing it.” “The kinds of problems we faced were human Larsen tapped Los Angeles-based director problems, not gay problems.” and actor Nic Arnzen, who performed in Dillon came up with a story about a party the original production, to direct his new attended by six middle-class gay men. They production with a cast of local actors. discuss show tunes and sex until a variation “We have a very strong history and I know on the game, “Truth or Dare,” has them slowly Nic gets it,” said Dillon. “I have all the faith in removing articles of clothing. They ultimately the world with him. I don’t have to be there reveal not only their bodies, but deep-seated looking over his shoulder.”

David Dillon’s “Party” will be presented May 6 - June 12 at Empire Stage, 1140 N. Flagler Drive in Fort Lauderdale. Show times are Wednesdays through Fridays at 8 p.m. and Saturdays and Sundays at 4 p.m. and 7 p.m. Tickets are $35 for general admission and $50 for preferred seating at RonnieLarsen.com.

4.27.2016 • 43 Datebook APR. 27 TO MAY. 3 * The Blind Boys of Alabama comfort of your picnic blanket or lawn rooftop party, which brings a host of odd Theater and Mavis Staples chair every week, for free! Call 561-243- characters. Tickets $41. Call 786-573-5300 Christiana Lilly May 4 at 7:30 p.m. at the Broward Center 7922 or visit DelrayArts.org. or visit SMDCAC.org. [email protected] for the Performing Arts, 201 SW Fifth Ave. in Fort Lauderdale. Gospel singer Mavis miami-dade county The Hammer Trinity Staples opens the show for the Blind Boys Through May 8 at the Adrienne Arsht Center, 1300 Biscayne Blvd. in Miami. of Alabama to perform spiritual songs * The Smashing Pumpkins - from across time. Tickets $50 to $125. Call Casper Kent discovers he is in line to the In Plainsong throne and must defend the precious Top Picks 954-462-0222 or visit BrowardCenter.org. May 1 at 7:30 p.m. at the Aventura Center, hammer from pirates. The three-part play 3385 NE 188th St. in Aventura. The band is performed over 6.5 hours. Tickets $150. Them Beaux hits the road with Liz Phair. Tickets April 29 to May 13 at the Miami Friday Night Sound Waves Call 305-949-6722 or visit ArshtCenter.org. Theater Center, 9806 NE Second Ave. Music Series $49.50 to $325. Call 305-466-8002 or visit in Miami Shores. A reinterpretation Fridays from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. at The AventuraCenter.org. Hub, Las Olas Boulevard and A1A in Fort * Stage Kiss of “The Beaux,” a play set in the Deep Through May 15 at Main Street Players, South with con men, hijinks, love, Lauderdale. Enjoy live, outdoor music * The Last of the Just spanning genres and tributes every Friday 6766 Main St. in Miami Lakes. Former and deception. Tickets $25. Call 305- May 2 at 7:30 p.m. at UM’s Miller Center lovers, She and He head back into show 751-9550 or visit MTCMiami.org. evening through November. Free. Visit Auditorium, 5202 University Drive Merrick FridayNightSoundWaves.com business after a two-decade hiatus and, 119 in Coral Gables. A reading from “The unbeknownst to them, are cast in the A Kid Like Jake Last of the Just,” a book chronicling a leading roles. Tickets $25. Call 305-558- Through May 1 at the Lake Worth palm beach county family of “just men” and ending with 3737 or visit MainStreetPlayers.com. Playhouse, 713 Lake Ave. in Lake the last, killed in Auschwitz, in honor of Worth. As Alex and Greg wait to find * The Navy Band Southeast Holocaust Remembrance Day. Free. Visit out if their son, Jake, is accepted into Wind Ensemble GableStage.org. PAMM Outdoor Music Series May 1 at 7 p.m. at the Sunset Cove Third Thursdays at the Perez Art Museum a Manhattan private school, they Amphitheater at Burt Aaronson Miami, 101 W. Flagler St. in Miami. Come become concerned with his behavior * Don Pasquale South County Regional Park, 20405 out for live music from DJs and musicians as he becomes more obsessed with May 7 to 14 at the Adrienne Arsht Center, Amphitheater Circle at Boca Raton. The by the bay. Drink specials available. Free dressing up and princesses. Tickets 1300 Biscayne Blvd. in Miami. Don 25-piece ensemble performs Broadway with museum admission. Call 305-375- $20. All 561-586-6410 or visit Pasquale fears that his nephew Ernesto tunes, patriotic music, classical pieces, 3000 or visit PAMM.org. LakeWorthPlayhouse.org. will steal his fortune, so he seeks to find and more. Free. Visit Facebook.com/ a woman to marry, which only causes his SunsetCoveAmphitheater. problems to get worse. Tickets $25 to $229. The Big Show The Submission Fridays and Saturdays at 9 p.m. at Just the Through May 8 at Island City Stage, 2304 Call 305-949-6722 or visit ArshtCenter.org. The Bridges of Madison Funny Theater, 3119 Coral Way in Miami. N. Dixie Highway in Wilton Manors. A collection of comedy mixing the likes of Danny, a gay playwright, is elated that County -- The Musical Roof! improvisation and sketches. Tickets $12. his play is chosen to be performed at a Through May 1 at the Kravis Center for the Through May 8 at the South Miami-Dade Performing Arts,701 Okeechobee Blvd. in Cultural Arts Center, 10950 SW 211 St. Call 305-693-8669 or visit JustTheFunny. festival -- but he turned it in under the com. pen name of a black woman. He hires West Palm Beach. Based on the book by in Cutler Bay. Vic and Adam throw a a black actress to fi ll in for him, but it Robert James Waller, Francesca Johnson only makes things more complicated. leads a mundane life as a housewife in Iowa Tickets $35. Call 954-519-2533 or visit until she meets traveling photographer, IslandCityStage.org. Robert Kincaid. Tickets $27 and up. Call 561-832-7469 or visit Kravis.org.

* Denotes New Listing * Gyorgy Lakatos, the Gypsy broward county Guitar King May 5 at 7 p.m. at the Kravis Center for the * Frank Caliendo Performing Arts, 701 Okeechobee Blvd. in April 28 at 8 p.m. at Parker Playhouse, West Palm Beach. The Hungarian guitar 707 NE Eighth St. in Fort Lauderdale. The virtuoso performs his own works from the comedian is known for her impressions, “Back to the Roots” tour. Tickets $35. Call from George W. Bush and Bill Clinton 561-832-7469 or visit Kravis.org. to John Madden and Jim Rome. Tickets $37.50 to $47.50. Call 954-462-0222 or visit * Short Cuts 6 ParkerPlayhouse.com. May 6 to 15 at Willow Theatre at Sugar Sand Park, 300 S. Military Trail in Boca * Chris Isaak Raton. Enjoy eight, 10-minute shorts April 29 to 30 at the Broward Center for the from the best South Florida playwrights. Performing Arts, 201 SW Fifth Ave. in Fort Tickets $25. Call 561-347-3948 or visit Lauderdale. You know him for “Wicked WillowTheatre.org. Game,” now hear music from “First Comes Photo: Facebook the Night,” his newest album in six years. Free Friday Concerts Tickets $45 to $120. Call 954-462-0222 or Fridays at 7:30 p.m. at the Delray Beach visit BrowardCenter.org. Center for the Arts, 51 N. Swinton Ave. in The Submission Through May 8 at Island City Stage, 2304 N. Delray Beach. Enjoy live music from the Dixie Highway in Wilton Manors.

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4.27.2016 • 45 Datebook APR. 27 TO MAY. 3 Broward Support community during one of these classes, with options to book a longer session miami-dade county Community Services for staff. RSVP to Bruce Williams at 954- Christiana Lilly 463-9005, ext. 109 or email BWilliams@ * Conservation Conversations: Gender Bender Youth Group [email protected] PrideCenterFlorida.org. 96 Elephants Mondays from 7 to 8:30 p.m. at SunServe May 5 at 7:30 p.m. at SapientNitro offices, Campus, 1480 SW Ninth Ave. in Fort 2911 Grand Ave. in Miami. John Calvelli Lauderdale. A group for LGBT youth 13 to * Proud Speakers Mondays from 7:15 to 9 p.m. at The Pride from the Wildlife Conservation Society 21 to discuss gender, gender expression, will discuss the fact that 96 elephants binary systems, friendship, family and Center, 2040 N. Dixie Highway in Wilton Top Picks Manors. Join the Toastmasters to work on are killed every day. Tickets $10. Visit whatever else comes up! Free. Visit ZooMiami.org. SunServeYouth.com your communication and leadership skills. Young Professionals Call Jose Antigua at 954-594-0634 or visit Brewery Night PFLAG 2266.toastmastersclubs.org. Arsht Center Farmers Market April 28 at 9 p.m. at The Fieldhouse Mondays from 4 to 8 p.m. at the Parker Tuesdays in Fort Lauderdale, Coral Springs and Vann Thomson Plaza for the Arts, at Old School Square, 51 N. Swinton and Southwest Ranches. A support group palm beach county Ave. in Delray Beach. Enjoy specialty 1300 Biscayne Blvd. in Miami. Purchase for parents of LGBT youth 13 to 21. Free. fresh food from local farmers, including brews and music from Hillside Spirit Visit SunServeYouth.com for dates and *Silent Disco First Thursdays at 9 p.m. at The Fieldhouse fruits, vegetables, meats, prepared foods, Revival. Tickets $10. Call 561-243- locations. 7922 or visit OldSchoolSquare.org. at Old School Square, 51 N. Swinton Ave. as well as chefs, live music, and cooking in Delray Beach. Dance to music by the DJ demonstrations. Free. Visit ArshtCenter. GayWrites through wireless headphones for a unique org/en/Visit/Dining. The Underline Cycling Wednesdays at 5:30 p.m. at the Stonewall night out. Tickets $20. Call 561-243-7922 Club Library, 1300 E. Sunrise Blvd. in Fort or visit OldSchoolSquare.org. May 1 at 10 a.m. at the Coconut Grove Lauderdale. Come join us and write your Rainbow Circle Mondays from 6 to 8 p.m. at the University Metrorail Station, 2780 SW 27th Ave. memoir, poem, blog, novel or short story. of Miami Flipse Building #302, 5665 in Coconut Grove. Cyclists 12 and * Food Truck Invasion Free. Email Jay Asher at [email protected]. Ponce de Leon Drive in Coral Gables. older are invited to ride the Underline Second and fourth Wednesdays at 5 An open discussion about coming out, from Coconut Grove to Dadeland p.m at the Seabreeze Theater at Carlin SunServe Youth Group Park, 400 S. SR A1A in Jupiter. Enjoy relationships, peer pressure, bullying, North. Free. Visit TheUnderline.org. Tuesdays and Thursdays in Fort Lauderdale, a night of food trucks and live music depression and more. Free. Visit Pridelines. Southwest Ranches, Coral Springs and twice a month. Free. Visit Facebook.com/ org. Hear Their Stories: Hollywood. A support group and night of fun for LGBT youth 13 to 21. Free. Visit seabreezeamphitheater. Learning From LGBT SunServeYouth.com for dates and times. Yoga Seniors’ Life Experience Tuesdays from 6 to 7:15 p.m. at Jose Marti May 3 from 7 to 8:30 p.m. at the Transcendence Meets at Compass GLCC, 201 N. Dixie Park, 362 SW Fourth Ave. in Miami. Yogis Pride Center, 2040 N. Dixie Highway Survivor Support Highway in Lake Worth. A closed 18 and older of all levels are invited to in Wilton Manors. Seniors share First and third Wednesdays from 7 to 8:30 p.m. at the Broward Health Imperial Point transgender youth support group for teens a practice lead by a certified instructor. their stories with SAGE USA’s digital Hospital cafeteria, 6401 N. Federal Highway ages 12 to 19. For more information, email Bring your own yoga mat, water, and history project. Free. Call Christopher in Fort Lauderdale. Find support from [email protected]. towel. Free. Call 305-358-7550 or visit Matthews at 954-463-9005, ext. 113 counselors and peers who have lost loved BayfrontParkMiami.com/Yoga.html. or visit PrideCenterFlorida.org. ones to suicide. Call the Florida Initiative for Suicide Prevention at 954-384-0344 or visit Zumba Fitness Mondays at 6 p.m. at Compass GLCC, 201 N. FISPOnline.org. HIV Support Group Dixie Highway in Lake Worth. Get moving Wednesdays from 7 to 9 p.m. at South with a certificated Zumba instructor for Beach AIDS Project, 1234 Washington Ave. Wilton Drive in Wilton Manors. Three an infusion of exercise and dance moves. Ste. 200 in Miami Beach. A support group broward county photographers explore the life of LGBT Donation of $5 or more. Call 561-324-1626 for those who are HIV positive. Free. Call people across the United States and how * March for Babies Annual Walk or visit CompassGLCC.com. 305-535-4733, ext. 301 or email support@ April 30 at 7 a.m. at Nova Southeastern this generation is redefining itself. Free. sobeaids.org. Visit Stonewall-Museum.org. University, 3301 College Ave. in Davie. Sober Sisters Join the walk to raise money for the Mondays at 6:15 p.m. at Lambda North, Book Study March of Dimes, which supports prenatal The Art of Tyce Marshall 18 S. J St. in Lake Worth. A support and Wednesdays from 7 to 9 p.m. at the Drolma wellness programs, research grants, Through May 6 at Art Gallery 21 at the discussion group for female recovering Kadampa Buddhist Center, 1273 Coral Way support programs, and advocacy efforts Woman’s Club of Wilton Manors, 600 NE alcoholics. Visit LambdaNorth.net. in Miami. Buddhist monk, Gen Kelsang for stronger, healthier babies. Free. Visit 21st Court in Wilton Manors. Experience Nurbu, will lead classes on learning the MarchofDimes.org/Florida. the work of Tyce Marshall, inspired foundations of Buddhism. Call 786-529- by seascapes, as well as the artwork Trans Youth Group First and third Fridays at 5 p.m. at Compass 7137. of artists Mark Baker, Patti Maceri, GLCC, 201 N. Dixie Highway in Lake Worth. * Pet Project Block Party Pamela Moloboado, Carl Phillips and Pat April 30 from 2 to 7 p.m. from 1206 to 1214 A support group for transgender youth 12 Wahl. Free. Call 954-661-4740 or visit Capoeira NE Fourth Avenue in Fort Lauderdale. to 19 years old. Email Katherine Murphy at Saturdays from 10:30 a.m. to noon at ArtGallery21.org. Enjoy a day filled with art, music, beer and [email protected]. Bayfront Park’s Tina Hills Pavilion, more with local businesses. Bring your 1075 Biscayne Blvd. in Miami. Learn the pup! Purchases benefit the Pet Project. LGBT Senior Cultural Jazz on the Palm Brazilian art of capoeira, a mix of dance Competency 101 Third Fridays from 8 to 10 p.m. at the and martial arts, with Mestre Ze Com Here & Now: Queer Geographies May 19, and June 15 from 9 to 11 a.m. at downtown West Palm Beach waterfront. Fome. Free. Call 305-989-6628 or visit in Contemporary Photography the Pride Center, 2040 N. Dixie Highway Relax on the water to the sounds of jazz mestrezeomfome.com. Through May 1 at Stonewall National in Wilton Manors. Learn how your with the family. Free. Visit WPBGo.com. Museum - Wilton Manors Gallery, 2157 business can better serve the LGBT senior * Denotes New Listing

46 • 4.27.2016 SFGN_Florida_House3_Top_WP.pdf 1 4/22/2015 10:44:34 AM Where People Get Better We treat the chemical dependency and the underlying issues that contribute to drug and alcohol addiction. Whether you are a professional, a parent, or a student, now you can get better. All calls are 100% confidential. Detox I Residential l OutpatientPM l Aftercare

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