local name global coverage april 8, 2020 vol. 11 // issue 15
ONE TEAM PINK SUB AND FABSCOUT TEAM UP TO GIVE BACK PAGE 16
SOUTHFLORIDAGAYNEWS @SFGN SFGN.COM NEWS HIGHLIGHT Washington Blade courtesy of the National LGBTQ Media Association. SouthFloridaGayNews.com
@SFGN April 8, 2020 • Volume 11 • Issue 15 2520 N. Dixie Highway • Wilton Manors, FL 33305 Phone: 954-530-4970 Fax: 954-530-7943 LGBT PEOPLE URGED TO Publisher • Norm Kent [email protected] CEO • Pier Angelo Guidugli [email protected] Associate Publisher / Executive Editor • ‘GET COUNTED’ IN CENSUS Jason Parsley [email protected] Lou Chibbaro Jr. Editorial Washington Blade Art Director • Brendon Lies [email protected] Digital Content Director • Justin Musial he D.C.-based National LGBTQ Task [email protected] Force has announced it will celebrate Arts/Entertainment Editor • J.W. Arnold Census Day on April 1 by “mobilizing [email protected] T Social Media Manager • Paul Leary LGBT people across the country to get [email protected] counted in the 2020 Census.” Food/Travel Editor • Rick Karlin The Task Force is part of a coalition of Gazette News Editor • Sallie James HIV Editor • Sean McShee national civil rights and progressive advocacy Senior Photographer • J.R. Davis groups that launched the “Queer the Census” [email protected] campaign last year to encourage members Senior Features Correspondents of marginalized communities to make sure Jesse Monteagudo they are counted in this year’s Census. Correspondents “Starting today, the National LGBTQ Dori Zinn • Donald Cavanaugh Task Force will host a series of educational Christiana Lilly • John McDonald webinars, host office hours online where Denise Royal • David-Elijah Nahmod people can find answers to their questions, The staff of the National LGBTQ Task Force. Contributing Columnists Photo via Facebook. Brian McNaught • Terri Schlichenmeyer and work with volunteers to make thousands Dana Rudolph • Ric Reily of phone calls to LGBT people to make sure Associate Photographers they know how to fill out the Census,” the questionnaire explicitly asks couples living is working to change that, so that our Carina Mask • Steven Shires group said in a March 27 statement. together to define their relationship to their community can access the things it needs “The Census helps LGBTQ communities partners in a new way — as “same-sex” or most — dollars, democracy and justice.” Sales & Marketing access billions in federal funding for social “opposite sex” spouses or partners. Nick Morrow, a spokesperson for the For ad placement in SFGN, programs, helps us build political power and The 2000 and 2010 Census counted same- national LGBT advocacy organization contact 954-530-4970 helps us enforce civil rights protections,” sex couples indirectly through questions Human Rights Campaign, said HRC shares Sales Manager • Justin Wyse Meghan Maury, the Task Force’s policy [email protected] about gender and relationships. But the the Task Force’s view on the importance of Senior Advertising Associate • Edwin Neimann director, said in the statement. newly worded question in 2020 is expected the Census for LGBTQ people. [email protected] In a development that some LGBT activists to provide a more accurate count of the “It’s vitally important for all of us to be Distribution Services • Rocky Bowell view as a positive change, the 2020 Census number of same-sex couples in the United counted in the Census,” he said. “Critical Bernard Wisneski States. funding for programs that support our Sales Consultant • Charles A. Reid To the disappointment of LGBT advocacy communities, and LGBTQ people specifically, National Advertising organizations, Census officials under the are determined by the Census.” Rivendell Media 212-242-6863 “THE CENSUS HELPS LGBTQ Trump administration declined to include For the 2020 Census the U.S. Census [email protected] COMMUNITIES ACCESS BILLIONS in the 2020 questionnaire questions asking Bureau has or is in the process of mailing a Accounting Services by CG Bookkeeping about a person’s sexual orientation or gender letter to all U.S. households informing the Printing by Sun Coast Press IN FEDERAL FUNDING FOR identity so that non-coupled LGBT people resident or residents that they are required SOCIAL PROGRAMS, HELPS US could be counted. under U.S. law to complete a Census “While the Census doesn’t ask questions questionnaire. BUILD POLITICAL POWER AND about sexual orientation or gender identity, The letter urges residents to complete the HELPS US ENFORCE CIVIL RIGHTS it’s still vital for us to be counted,” Maury questionnaire online at my2020census.gov. said in the Task Force statement. “Like other The Task Force says details of its events of PROTECTIONS.” marginalized communities, LGBTQ people and activities related to its campaign to SFGN Winner have historically been undercounted on the promote LGBT participation in the Census & 5 Florida Press Club Awards - Meghan Maury And runner-up for TASK FORCE POLICY DIRECTOR Census,” Maury said. can be obtained at www.queerthecensus.org. “The ‘Queer the Census’ campaign NLGJA Journalist of the Year
South Florida Gay News is published weekly. The opinions expressed in columns, stories, and letters to the editor do not represent the opinions of SFGN, or the Publisher. You should not presume the sexual orientation of individuals based on their names Cover: Dan Michael volunteering with the Pink Sub. Photo credit: Carina Mask. or pictorial representations. Furthermore the word “gay” in SFGN should be interpreted to be inclusive of the entire LGBT community. All of the material/columns that appears in print and online, including articles used in conjunction with the AP, is protected under federal copyright and intellectual property laws, and is jealously guarded by the newspaper. Nothing published may be reprinted in whole or part without getting written consent from the Publisher, at his law office, at [email protected]. SFGN, as a private corporation, reserves the right to enforce its own standards regarding the Associated Press suitability of advertising copy, illustrations and photographs. Copyright © 2020 South Florida Gay News.com, Inc.
2 • 4.8.2020 NEWS LOCAL
Wilton Drive. Photo credit: Carina Mask.
31 CASES OF COVID-19 IN WILTON MANORS SO FAR Jason Parsley
ccording to the Florida Department of social distance,” she said. “These actions Health at least 31 people have tested will help the Island City flatten the curve.” Apositive for the coronavirus in Wilton In order to help mitigate the impact of the Manors as of Sunday. That’s up from 23 a shutdown Carson said the city has cancelled week ago and 10 two weeks ago. code enforcement fine accruals; parking fees As of Sunday, 1,886 have tested positive in in metered lots have been suspended, and Broward County up from 1,129 a week ago. online convenience fees have been waived. Looking at the four individual She also said there will be no zip codes that include some utility shut offs. portion of Wilton Manors 33305 “MOST ARE In comparison to Wilton has 14 cases; 33306 has five; RESPONSIBLY Manors there have been 442 33311 has 137 and 33334 has WEARING cases in Fort Lauderdale (up 34. All of the zip codes include from 290), and 29 in Oakland Dr. Cunningham and his office is available for portions of neighboring cities. PROTECTIVE MASKS Park (up from 21). Meanwhile “During this crisis, the AND/OR GLOVES there are 12,350 (up from 5,473) your needs during this crisis. Please call City is continuing to provide confirmed cases in Florida, or email at [email protected] essential services, and most AND KEEPING more than 350,000 in the U.S. City staff members are APPROPRIATE (up from 150,000), and more working remotely. Police are SOCIAL DISTANCE.” than 1.3 million globally (up patrolling the neighborhoods, from 740,000). So far there and the Community Services - Julie Carson have been 221 deaths in Florida Department is facilitating WILTON MANORS CITY (up from 63), 10,300 in the COMMISSIONER necessary building permits U.S. (up from 2,805) and more and property inspections than 72,600 globally (up from electronically, where possible,” Wilton 36,000). Manors commissioner Julie Carson said. Florida is now under a stay-at-home order “Residents are hunkered down for the next and in Broward only essential businesses are phase of this pandemic, leaving homes only allowed to operate. to walk the dog or make a trip to the grocery Carson also encouraged those that have or pharmacy.” the ability to donate money to give to the Carson said she believes the city’s GoFundMe page at GoFundMe.com/f/we- residents are taking the pandemic seriously. are-wilton set up to assist the employees “Most are responsibly wearing protective of Wilton Manors businesses. So far it has masks and/or gloves and keeping appropriate raised $3,400.
4.8.2020 • 3 NEWS LOCAL NEWS STATE
George Castrataro. Photo via George Castrataro, Facebook. WINTER PARTY VOLUNTEER DIES FROM CORONAVIRUS
Jason Parsley
on Rich, 65, a long-time volunteer for the Winter Party Festival, died from Rcomplications of the coronavirus over the weekend. “Ron was a familiar face to the guests who attended the Task Force Gala, Winter Party Festival and our Fort Lauderdale house parties over the past five years as his big smile and warmth had him mostly serving on our hospitality team,” a Facebook post from the Task Force read. “He will be missed. We extend our condolences to his family and friends.” FLORIDA SUPREME COURT Rich was an avid volunteer, who donated his time to other organizations as well, such as the OUTshine Film Festival. SUSPENDS PROMINENT “He was always there when we needed him, always wanted to help in any way possible, and didn’t worry about getting dirty to help out,” Ron Rich. Photo via Facebook. LOCAL GAY LAWYER said Victor Gimenez, Executive Director of George Castrataro has been held in contempt of court OUT-shine. “Ron didn’t wait to be asked what the Gay Men’s Chorus of South Florida, also to do but always took the initiative and asked recently died from the coronavirus. how he could help.” Vim Kruger, who considered Rich his best According to Gimenez, Rich’s illness and friend, is devastated. He said Rich had a big SFGN Staff death happened quickly. heart and was always willing to give back. “I was shocked when I found out he passed “He was just one of the kindest people I away so quickly after catching COVID-19. Ron eorge Castrataro has been held in court the Supreme Court also suspended knew. Personally, he was just always willing to was admitted to the hospital and diagnosed contempt of court by the Florida him from the further practice of law, and help out with whatever I needed,” Kruger said. with double pneumonia, tested for COVID-19, Supreme Court, and suspended from ordered him to pay $1,250 in fines. “He went above and beyond and never asked G three days later was informed he had it when for anything in return.” the practice of law. Castrataro has until May 6 to appeal the the results came back, and two days later he Castrataro’s suspension not only bars decision. Kruger said Rich dearly loved his four passed away,” Gimenez said. him from taking new cases immediately, The disciplinary sanctions being imposed children, Marc, Becky, Heather and Evan. The Winter Party is an annual event hosted it also says it will “remain in effect until originated from at least two separate “He was very close to them,” Kruger said. by the National LGBTQ Task Force that takes further order of this court.” complaints filed against Castrataro by “Not a day went by without him talking about place every year in Miami Beach. This year’s Castrataro told SFGN that former clients. They remain them.” festival took place about a week before many while he cannot comment confidential at this time. Kruger said he believed Rich to be healthy similar type events started announcing on any of the specifics of the Castrataro’s Fort Lauderdale and didn’t know of any underlying conditions postponements and cancellations. situation, “we intend to be CASTRATARO based law practice has been he may have had. According to the Centers Rich is the second gay man in South Florida proactive and are working to focused on bankruptcy and for Disease Control older individuals, and SFGN has written about who attended provide the requested details.” IS estate planning. He has those with other chronic conditions such as the Winter Party, and then died from the He added that “We are distinguished himself in the diabetes, lung disease and heart disease are coronavirus. A third gay man, a member of optimistic the matter can be CURRENTLY LGBT community by serving more likely to be hospitalized or die. resolved!” on the board of directors “He will be so missed. In my life there will Regardless of his optimism, BARRED of numerous charitable be a big space,” Kruger said. “But I am sure a the state’s highest court gave agencies, including Care “HE WAS ALWAYS lot of people will feel like that. He was liked by him 30 days “to close out FROM Resource. He also launched everybody.” his practice and protect the TAKING ON an unsuccessful bid for THERE WHEN WE Kruger said there wasn’t anything Rich interests of existing clients.” city commission in Fort wasn’t willing to try. Castrataro’s duty is now NEW CASES. Lauderdale two years ago. NEEDED HIM, ALWAYS “He was interested in everything. No matter to find another lawyer in A New York native, prior what you wanted to do he was willing to do it good standing to assume to opening his law practice in WANTED TO HELP IN with you,” he said. responsibility for all his cases, in order to 2006, he had previously worked extensively Recently Kruger formed a social group protect the interests of his present clients. in the public health field with the Florida ANY WAY POSSIBLE.” with Rich for gay men in their 60s to discuss He is barred from taking new ones. Department of Health and the American - Victor Gimenez topics like aging and sexuality. Kruger plans Besides holding him in contempt of Red Cross. EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF OUTSHINE on restarting the group once the threat of the coronavirus has passed.
4 • 4.8.2020 NEWS LOCAL
A past Stonewall Pride in Wilton Manors. Photo via the City of Wilton Manors, Facebook.
STONEWALL FESTIVAL IN JUNE CANCELLED
Sallie James ASK US ABOUT: ast year about 40,000 revelers packed said the huge event brings an infusion of Repeat Guest Discounts the streets of Wilton Manors to cash to the bars and restaurants in the city, Military & Veteran Discounts Lcelebrate the 50th anniversary of the and hopefully entices visitors to return. The Stonewall Riots. This year the streets will be long-term shutdown, however, leaves a lot Spa Specials & Memberships quiet thanks to the spread of the coronavirus. up in question. Florida Resident Discounts The popular Stonewall Pride Parade and “It’s no surprise. I just think it’s a natural Student Discounts Street celebration, planned for June, was following that Stonewall be postponed since postponed this week as Florida coronavirus the shutdown has been extended,” Rolli said. Call us at 1-800-818-1211 or cases continue to climb and social distancing “One thing I am concerned about is where guidelines were extended through mid- do we go from here? I expect property values visit grandresort.net for April. If rescheduled in December, it would will go down. We will have to look at where more information. be one day instead of two. we can cut.” “We don’t know what is going on because A 2017 study showed that most of it is hard to give a firm date,” said event Stonewall’s festival-goers come from organizer Jeffrey Sterling, CEO of the Wilton Broward, Miami-Dade, Palm Beach and Manors Entertainment Group. “Pride of Monroe counties, all areas with high Americas and South Beach Pride also got numbers of cases of the coronavirus. About postponed. We don’t know how this is going 5,000 people come from other areas, Sterling to affect Hialeah Pride.” said. The Stonewall Riots helped launched the The festival costs about $500,000 to run, modern LGBT rights movement. with approximately half coming from in- If social distancing restrictions are relaxed kind donations and half coming from cash, by the end of the year, other popular events Sterling said. The Broward Cultural Division could also be rescheduled. But too many recently awarded the festival a $40,000 grant events which share the same sponsors for 2020 and also for 2021, but where other scheduled for the last quarter of the year funds will come from is unclear because of could be problematic: the pot of sponsorship the economic uncertainty. funds is likely to be greatly reduced due to all The Wilton Manors Entertainment Group the required business closures. handles about 40 events a year for Wilton “Are we going to have less vendors? Manors, and so far, all events through April Probably. Everyone is going to have less have been canceled, with more cancellations money,” Sterling said. “It would be a lot anticipated. different if we didn’t share the same vendors Monthly cancelled events include Art and sponsors. That is why I’m assuming we Walk, the third Saturday of every month; are going to take a huge smack. Assume the Vibes on the Drive, the second Wednesday worst and design something that fits that of every month; and Pride Skate Nights, the model.We think attendance will be OK but third Wednesday of every month, at Xtreme we just think vendor-sponsor donations will Action Park. Other events include the Wilton be down.” Manors Business Association’s health fair Wilton Manors Commissioner Paul Rolli and Taste of the Island.
4.8.2020 • 5 NEWS NATIONAL Washington Blade courtesy of the National LGBTQ Media Association. FDA EASES BAN ON GAY BLOOD DONATIONS AMID CORONAVIRUS CRISIS
Chris Johnson SFGN file photo. Washington Blade
aced with tremendous pressure during the coronavirus crisis to lift its policy barring gay men from donating Fblood, the Food & Drug Administration announced on late last week it has eased the restrictions.
While the previous policy, established in transmission of Creutzfeldt-Jakob Disease or 2015, barred men who have had sex with men Variant Creutzfeldt-Jakob Disease. in the past 12 months from making a donation, White House Deputy Secretary Judd Deere the new policy shortens the deferral period, said via email to the Washington Blade requiring abstinence for only three months. the new policy is safe and consistent with The FDA indicated it would make a change President Trump’s vision for blood donations. in a notice to stakeholders on Thursday, saying “President Trump wants those who wish the decision was based on “evaluation of the to donate blood and for those who accept the totality of the scientific evidence available.” donations to be able to do so safely,” Deere “To help address this critical need and said. “Today’s decision is driven by health increase the number of donations, the FDA and science. The White House supports the is announcing today that based on recently Commissioner on this action.” completed studies and epidemiological data, The FDA issued the notice to stakeholders ensure blood collection organizations across period could be shortened more than three we have concluded that the current policies at the same time it published on its website a the country continue to meet patient needs months based on current science, but for regarding the eligibility of certain donors can 17-page official memo outlining the changes, throughout this pandemic and beyond.” the time being “it is important that people be modified without compromising the safety declaring they were made to address the In 1983, the FDA implemented a lifetime ban continue to abide by the rules that are place of the blood supply,” the notice shortage in the blood supply on blood donations from gay and bisexual men until we can convince the people determining says. amid the COVID-19 crisis and amid fears in the early days of the HIV/AIDS these policies to change the policies so that In addition changing the THE NEW therefore would not wait for a epidemic. During the Obama administration is really risk based and/or to shorten that recommended deferral period public comment period. in 2015, that policy was eased to a ban on deferral period.” for men who have had sex POLICY “As a result of this public donations from men who’ve had sex with men Prior to the FDA’s change, the LGBTQ media with men from 12 months to health emergency, there in the past year — but restrictions nonetheless watchdog GLAAD was engaged in a weeks long three months, the FDA informs SHORTENS is a significant shortage remained in place. campaign calling on the agency to lift the gay stakeholders of other changes. THE DEFERRAL in the supply of blood in The 2015 deferral policy had angered LGBT blood ban. A petition launched by GLAAD as Among them are easing ban the United States, which advocates for some time, but indignation of Thursday had more than 20,000 signatures. on donations for women who PERIOD, early implementation of became piqued during the blood supply Sarah Kate Ellis, CEO of GLAAD, said in a have had sex with men who, in REQUIRING the recommendations in during the coronavirus as U.S. Surgeon statement the FDA changes are good progress turn, previously have had sex this guidance may help to General Jerome Adams made an urgent plea and worth celebrating, but more needs to with a man. For these women, ABSTINENCE address [even though the for donations. change. the deferral period has similarly recommendations in this Among the reasons critics called the “This is a victory for all of us who raised our been changed from 12 months FOR ONLY guidance are broadly applicable previous outdated is the belief testing collective voices against the discriminatory to three months. THREE MONTHS. beyond the COVID-19 public procedures would catch any HIV in the blood ban on gay and bisexual men donating blood,” Further, the new policy health emergency],” the memo supply regardless of the donor. Ellis said. “We will keep fighting until the eases the 12 month deferral for says. Scott Schoettes, counsel and the HIV Project deferral period is lifted and gay and bi men, individuals with recent tattoos and piercings The three-month deferral period is Director at Lambda Legal, said in a conference and all LGBTQ people, are treated equal to to three months, and eases from an indefinite consistent with recommendations from call hosted by the Human Rights Campaign, others.” ban to a three month ban donations from the American Red Cross, which before the however, that isn’t true. In recent weeks, numerous members of people who have a past history of sex in coronavirus had called on the FDA to shorten “People believe that it catches all new cases Congress had called on FDA to change the exchange for money, or injection drug use. the deferral period. of HIV or new cases of Hepatitis B, Hepatitis C, policy in several letters to the agency. Among Other changes are implemented easing The American Red Cross, in an other blood borne infections,” Schoettes said. them were Sen. Tammy Baldwin (D-Wis.), who policy related to blood donors who have organizational statement, said the new “That is not the case. There are still a window led 17 senators in renewing the call for an end travelled to malaria-endemic areas, such as policy changes, including the three-month period during which that testing would not to the policy. Reps. Carolyn Maloney (D-N.Y.) countries in Africa, or to European countries deferral period for gay men, will “potentially uncover a newly acquired infection.” and Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-N.Y.) also where the donor faced potential risk of allow more individuals to donate and help Schoettes said Lambda believes the deferral signed a joint letter to the FDA.
6 • 4.8.2020 NEWS LOCAL NEWS LOCAL DAILY TRACKING OF COVID-19 IN SOUTH FLORIDA
Sean McSheeDaily Increase in Total Known Covid-19 Cases Daily Increasein Three in South Total FloridaKnown CountiesCovid-19 Cases in ThreeMar South 31 through Florida Apr Counties 6 Mar 31 through Apr 6 Daily Increase in Total Known Covid-19 Cases Daily Increase in Total Known Covid-19 Cases 4,671 in Three South Florida Counties Rate of Increase in Total Known Covid 19 cases 4,671 Mar 31 through Apr 6 from 3/31 to 4/6in Three South Florida Counties 4,146 Rate of Increase in Total Known Covid 19 cases 3,890 from 3/31 to 4/6 Mar 31 through Apr 6 4,146 Palm Beach = 1.0 3,890 4,671 Broward = 0.7 3,364 Photo via PxFuel. PalmRate Beachof Increase = 1.0 in Total Known Covid 19 cases Miami Dade =1.2 4,146 Browardfrom 3/31 = to 0.74/6 3,364 2,886 3,890 4,671 Miami Dade =1.2 Palm Beach = 1.0 2,886 Rate of Increase Browardin Total = 0.7 Known Covid 19 cases3,364 2,202 Miami2,123 Dade =1.2 4,146 from 3/31 to 4/6 2,886 2,075 2,202 3,890 1,886 2,123 1,765 2,075 1,598 FACEBOOK GROUP 1,481 1,886 2,202 Palm Beach = 1.0 2,123 1,348 1,765 1,219 1,598 2,075 1,481 3,364 1,886 1,082 Broward = 0.7 1,348 1,765 954 1,000 1,219 1,598858 Miami Dade =1.2 1,481737 1,082 6161,348 954 1,000 LAUNCHED TO HELP THOSE 551 1,219 2,886 858 1,082 737 954 1,000 616 858 551 737 551 616 3/312,202 4/1 4/2 4/3 4/4 4/5 4/6 IN NEED IN WILTON MANORS 2,123 2,075 3/313/31 4/14/1 4/2 4/2 4/3 4/3 4/4 4/4 4/5 4/51,8864/6 4/6 1,765 Palm Beach1,598 Broward Miami-Dade 1,481 Sallie James 1,348 PalmPalm Beach BeachBrowardBrowardMiami-DadeMiami-Dade 1,219 Source: Florida Dept. of Health. 1,082 954 1,000 858 eed help walking your dog, picking are seeking. Then Sanabria, the group’s 737 616 up prescriptions or doing the grocery moderator, finds someone in the group551 who shopping because you’re not feeling can help. N Celebrating our 10th well? “Things like shopping for others, cooking Your smile Year on Wilton Drive! A new Facebook group that targets the food, food delivery, walking a dog 3/31or 4/1 4/2 sh4/3ould leave4/4 4/5 4/6 LGBT community in Wilton Manors has been simply just a friendly phone call,” Sanabria created to direct help to those who need it explained. “When people are isolated we are a great New Patients during the COVID-19 pandemic. going to experience a lot of depression and Palm Beach imBrowardpressiMiami-Dadeon! “Wilton Manors COVID-19 Mutual Aid” anxiety.” went live on March 30 to help people who The site also includes a printable PDF that are sick in isolation and need assistance, said people can pass out in their neighborhoods, $69 site administrator Omar Sanabria, a former with detailed information about the ($312 Value) Wilton Manors resident who created the Facebook group, how to join and what sort Comprehensive Exam, group. of networking assistance it can offer. The Digital X-Rays & “The idea was to really involve the PDF includes a list of coronavirus symptoms, Cleaning* community. Luckily we have not been suggestions on when to call your doctor, *In the absense of gum disease. engulfed by the coronavirus like New York when to isolate yourself, and tips on how to Not applicable to insurance benefits. City or Miami. This is a great time to get the avoid spreading the coronavirus. word out there and really network so we One resident posted, “Love this! I’m able to can just help people,” Sanabria said. “We are help walk dogs, pick up prescriptions or help hoping to increase the members.” with grocery shopping for those in need.” General & Cosmetic Dentistry The Facebook group had 30 members Sanabria said that’s what the site is all shortly after its launch on March 30 and about. continues to grow. “We have two purposes: For people that Volunteers who can provide help do not need help and for people who are willing State of the Art Facilities • Most Insurances Accepted have to reside in Wilton Manors. to support those who are asking for help,” Always Plenty of Free Parking • Located Conveniently on Wilton Drive The Wilton Manors COVID-19 Mutual Sanabria said. “I will make sure we see Aid Facebook group is described as a “group through the requests and that someone in the where people in Wilton Manors can ask for community is helping that person.” 954-565-7666 help if they are sick or in isolation. Where He added, “You are basically matching the people who are well and willing to help can needs to local residents with the support Dr. David K. Warner, DDS, FAGD offer. Because we can all help each other.” of the community. This is not about asking Here’s how it works: for monetary donations. This is about 1946 Wilton Drive • Wilton Manors • FL 33305 A person in need goes to the group and connecting people who can help with people basically states what type of assistance they in need.” www.IslandCitySmiles.com
4.8.2020 • 7 NEWS LOCAL GAY BSO DEPUTY DIES FROM CORONAVIRUS Pictured below: Shannon Bennett. Photo via BSO.
Jason Parsley
deputy with the Broward Sheriff’s Department died from the coronavirus, the BSO announced Saturday. ADeputy Shannon Bennett, 39, worked for BSO for more than 12 years. A deputy with the Broward Sheriff’s School since January 2019. Department died from the coronavirus, the According to Tony, Bennett called out sick BSO announced Saturday. March 23 and checked into a hospital the Deputy Shannon Bennett, 39, worked for next day. He tested positive for COVID-19 BSO for more than 12 years. on March 27 and died before midnight “I ask that you keep Shannon’s family Friday, Tony said. members in your prayers, but keep Shannon Bennett was among 21 BSO employees within your heart. His legacy will be carried who have tested positive for COVID-19 as of on in our performance,” BSO Sheriff Gregory Saturday morning, most of them isolated at Tony said in a message on Facebook. home, Tony said. Bennett died Friday night. Bennett was an active member of the According to media outlets Tony said at a local LGBT softball league press conference Saturday morning, “This where he played on the is a reminder not only to this community team Shockers. BENNETT WAS AMONG 21 BSO but to us as first responders that we’re on Bennett was to marry his EMPLOYEES WHO HAVE TESTED POSITIVE the front lines with this, and that we’re partner Jonathan Frey in not immune to it, we can fall victim to it as December. FOR COVID-19 AS OF SATURDAY well.” Frey posted a goodbye MORNING, MOST OF THEM ISOLATED AT Bennett had been a school resource love letter to Bennet on HOME, TONY SAID. officer at Deerfield Beach Elementary Facebook.
“I will never have the words to describe how much you meant to me. You were my best friend, my soulmate, my lover, my everything. You would have gone to the end of the world and back for me — it was written all over your face in the way you looked at me. You’d wipe the tears from my face during movies. You’d give me our 20-second hugs because you knew how much it made me feel better Tim Martin, former Chairman of the South Florida after a hard day even though you’d roll your eyes and pretend to pull away. You were afraid to cook because you couldn’t see the pink Amateur Athletic Association, remembered Bennett in meats so instead you’d always put the dishes away after dinner. You introduced me to amazing people and I gained so, so, so many fondly. different, wonderful families. You made me laugh when I couldn’t contain the tears and you made me cry with your spattered bouts of "Shannon was a man who put family first, friends romanticism and adoration for me. You’d give me my own personal drag performances. You were a man that set the bar above all else. second, and himself last. For example, as a deputy I fell in love with you the first time I saw you seven years ago. I didn’t know it then, but our trains were to meet at the right time and it was officer for BSO, Shannon thought it was more important fate. God may have another plan for you, and although I am angry and I don’t understand it, I honor it. You were an angel that touched so many and I am so blessed and honored to have become your fiancé. I will eternally be proud of the person who you were and who to be on duty during Stonewall Pride than to be among you allowed me to see. It soothes my soul you’re with your father, without pain, and I will one day be reunited with you. the revelers,” he said. “This is a tremendous loss for the My last text to you was at 10:16 p.m. which was about 10 minutes prior to the call. I hope you knew I was with you in those last gay softball community as well, where he was a player moments. I’m so deeply sorry I was not able to hold your hand as you crossed over… for a number of years. “We will all miss him.” My heart has been forever torn into two. Please take the other half with you. After Bennett’s death The Broward Sheriff’s Advisory All my love, energy, and soul. I will miss you dearly.” Council announced they were launching the “COVID-19 Fund” in his memory to support the families of Broward County first responders, who die from the coronavirus. “We are all heartbroken by the tragic passing of one of Sadly SFGN has also learned of the passing of LGBT icon Henrietta Robinson. our dedicated deputies. This COVID-19 crisis is touching Read the story on SFGN.com all of us and is sure to claim even more victims,” said
8 • 4.8.2020 NEWS LOCAL
BSAC Chairman Edward Collins. “We want Pictured below: Sheriff Gregory Tony making a to make sure that Deputy Bennett’s death statement on the death of Shannon Bennett. Photo was not in vain and that we have sufficient via BSO. funds to provide essential financial support to families of these selfless community servants who risk their lives every day to protect us.” The BSAC is a nonprofit membership organization that raises funds to support first responders, and has been giving money to families of fallen officers, who have died in the line of duty, since 1985. As long as their agency says they died in the line of duty the families of first responders will be eligible for the “COVID-19 fund.” One-hundred percent of each donation will go to this new fund. “Every gift, no matter how small, will enable us to support the families of so many individuals who continue to serve on the frontlines in our community,” BSAC Executive Director Nancy Vaniman in a press release. Visit SheriffsAdvisoryCouncil.com/ covid-19-fund/ to donate. Last year as Pride Month ended the BSO shared Bennett’s coming out story on Facebook.
“Twelve amazing years ago, I began my career with BSO in the Department of Detention and Community Control. I am Deputy Shannon Bennett and I am an out and proud gay Law Enforcement Officer who serves the citizens of Broward County.
I’ve been out since I was 18 years old. When I decided to pursue a career in law enforcement at the age of 26, the anxiety of feeling I would be discriminated against due to my sexuality was extremely overwhelming. Additionally, I felt I would have to disguise my true character to be accepted. My brother, who joined agency five years prior, also with the Department of Detention, played a significant role supporting me through the process. He told me as long as I did my job, I would be respected and to not to worry about what people thought of me. This resonated with me daily.
The first year I kept a low profile which was hard because I am a very social guy. I went to work and accomplished my assignments. After a while, people began to see my work ethic and wanted to get to know Shannon the person. I was befriended by a Deputy who I consider a very good friend to this day. He approached me one night on shift and stated, “You know I know and it’s OK. A lot of us know and it’s OK.” I immediately knew what he meant and from there I felt I was a part of the team and was able to be a better deputy.
I wanted to further my career in Law Enforcement so I enrolled in the cross over academy from detention to law enforcement. After successful completion, I was transferred to the Department of Law Enforcement (Road patrol). It was here I realized that I had made the best decision, but again the anxiety of people knowing I was gay set in again. It was while working road patrol I met an openly gay deputy named Paul Auerbach. Through his friendship and guidance he helped me realize most of our co-workers did not care about my sexual orientation, they just wanted the mission of the job to be completed. Through my work ethic and loyalty I was welcomed with open arms and have made a second family with the men and women here at the Broward County Sheriff's Office.
Since transferring to road patrol I have been afforded the opportunity to use my platform as an openly gay Deputy to help my LGBTQ community bridge the gap with law enforcement. I have for the past 7 years worked and walked in the Stonewall Parade. I take pride each year in keeping my community safe and making them feel accepted so they can celebrate with pride.
What I want you to know about me is that I am a human being, I am sensitive, I have feelings, and I love the same way you love. As someone who prides themselves on being able to live their truth, my sexuality doesn’t define me as a person. When you see me in uniform I am there to protect and serve and will continue to keep all walks of life safe from harm. Happy Pride!”
4.8.2020 • 9 NEWS NATIONAL STATES WON’T COLLECT LGBT DATA ON COVID-19 Chris Johnson SFGN File Photo. Washington Blade
mid the coronavirus crisis, state health officials responsible for gathering data on COVID-19 are declining to collect and report whether or not patients identify as LGBT — a practice that angers ALGBT advocates who say those answers could yield important information to combat the disease.
The lack of data, advocates say, will essentially blind the fast spread of the virus and the extraordinary shortcomings the public to the coronavirus’ impact on LGBT people — a in the United States’ response to the pandemic.” population that may be particularly vulnerable to COVID-19 “Unfortunately, many of our pre-existing public health — as the epidemic continues to rise and health officials surveillance systems did not yet incorporate basic demographic warn the death toll in the United States will hit its peak in the data about LGBTQ people, and many health care institutions coming weeks. haven’t yet implemented this data collection in their patient An estimated 100,000 to 240,000 Americans may die as a record systems either,” Tobin said. “That’s inexcusable, but it’s result of the coronavirus epidemic, U.S. government health also not likely we’ll be able to correct those deficiencies in the advisers said this week. middle of a fast-moving global pandemic.” The deputy director of the National LGBT Cancer Network, Jurisdictions other than D.C. either didn’t respond to the who goes by the name Scout and has a Ph.D. in socio-medical Blade’s request to comment, or affirmed they didn’t collect sciences from Columbia University, said the lack of data on data on whether coronavirus patients identify as LGBT. the coronavirus’ impact on LGBT people reflects the absence In Michigan, where Detroit has become a new epicenter of LGBT data collection in medical surveys writ large. for the coronavirus epidemic, a spokesperson for the state “The common phenomenon of not collecting LGBTQ health department of health confirmed the LGBT status of patients surveillance data hurts us in so many ways. Now it will hurt isn’t asked by health officials. us by masking the impact of COVID-19 on our communities,” In New York, a spokesperson said the NY Department of Scout said. “Considering an estimated 3.3 million of us use Health is “not tracking COVID-19 cases by sexuality,” then receiving specific services at different rates, or having different tobacco products, and therefore have a higher risk of negative when asked why that was the case referred the Blade to recent outcomes.” outcomes if we get coronavirus, not collecting LGBTQ+ status remarks from Gov. Andrew Cuomo on COVID-19, who recently The lack of data collection on whether coronavirus patients in health surveillance data is horrible. We will mourn our said “This virus does not discriminate.” identify as LGBT appears to be the result of a general practice losses but never be able to measure them.” Privacy issues around asking COVID-19 patients whether as well as the official CDC form specific for COVID-19 data The Blade reached out to several states where they identify as LGBT were cited by one collection, which doesn’t include questions seeking to identify the confirmed cases of coronavirus infection are state contacted by the Blade about LGBT whether a patient is LGBT. at their highest and as of this week surpassed “WE WILL demographics on the epidemic. The CDC form seeks to obtain information on patients who 5,000 cases, according to data from the Centers The departments of health for New Jersey, tested positive for COVID-19 based on age, sex and ethnicity, for Disease Control & Prevention. Additionally, MOURN Maryland and Virginia didn’t respond to the but no where does it ask their sexual orientation. the Blade sought LGBT demographic information OUR LOSSES Blade’s request to comment, and the California For the query on sex, the form allows states to record the on the COVID-19 impact from jurisdictions local Department of Health referred the Blade to a patient’s answer as “male,” “female,” “none,” or “other.” to the D.C. region and states that have had greater BUT NEVER page on its website showing the information Although those options provide some flexibility to patients incident rates of COVID-19 cases. state officials record for COVID-19. (It doesn’t who are non-binary, it doesn’t explicitly seek to ascertain The only jurisdiction to report having collected BE ABLE TO include whether patients identify as LGBT.) whether a COVID-19 patient is transgender. data on whether COVID-19 patients identify as MEASURE Emphasizing changing forms to include The Centers for Disease Control didn’t respond to multiple LGBTQ was D.C., where the department of health LGBT questions amid a pandemic may not be requests from the Blade on whether it has information on affirmed Tuesday to the Blade that process was THEM.” realistic, Tobin cited several examples for why COVID-19’s impact on LGBT people, nor why its data collection underway. - Scout they would have been useful, including finding survey doesn’t ask patients if they identify as LGBT. “DC Health is collecting information about NATIONAL LGBT out whether LGBT people have particular health States and the CDC aren’t collecting data on whether LGBTQ+ status of coronavirus patients,” said CANCER NETWORK vulnerabilities and the right way to tailor public COVID-19 patients identify as LGBT despite a recent joint letter Alison Reeves, a D.C. Department of Health health messages. declaring LGBT people would be vulnerable to the epidemic. spokesperson. “However, that data is incomplete and will not “The health care system runs on data,” Tobin said. More than 150 advocates warned LGBT people would be be made public at this time.” “Collecting information in patient records helps promote disproportionately affected by the coronavirus because they Harper Jean Tobin, director of policy for the National Center honest communication between patients and staff to make smoke and suffer from cancer at higher rates; have high for Transgender Equality, said any reporting on COVID-19’s sure their health needs and concerns are addressed. It helps reported rates of discrimination in the health care system; and impact on LGBT people would likely be an undercount “due to us determine whether certain populations are seeking or are disproportionately affected by HIV/AIDS.
10 • 4.8.2020 PALM BEACH news CONVICTIONS Editorial Cartoon ONE VOTE DECIDES EDITORIAL CARTOON HAVERHILL RACE WITH By Mike Luckovich TWO OUT MEN
Jason Parsley
ONE VOTE. That’s all it took for Ray Caranci, a gay man, to unseat Daniel Sohn, a bisexual man, in a race for Haverhill’s Town Council. After all the votes were counted from the March 17 election Caranci led Sohn by one vote 153-152. But because it was so close there was an automatic recount, which turned up the same result later that week. At that point the race hinged on one potential uncounted ballot from overseas. As long as it was received by March 27 it would have been counted. Alas, it never Ray Caranci. Photo via Ray Caranci, Facebok. came. Sohn, 29, quickly conceded the election last Friday. Palm Beach as a landscape planner and “While this was not the outcome has lived in the town for 15 years. He’s many were hoping for, I take great pride been with his husband for 31 years. Grab a coffee, in the democratic process and want to Some of the issues Caranci wants to assure the people and organizations that focus on while in office include safety; supported my campaign that there are common sense code enforcement; takethe survey, still many paths forward for me and more neighborhood stability; responsible opportunities to represent you and the budgeting; long-term town planning; better issues you care about,” Sohn wrote in a information availability and bringing back make a difference. Facebook post. “It is with great humility town events. that I concede my re-election campaign “If there is one thing that I have found [...] and congratulate Mr. Caranci on his through the years is that we want dedicated Take the 14th Annual election.” invested home owners to lead our town LGBTQ Community Survey® In his Facebook post concession, Sohn government so we can feel secure they are Grab a coffee, said he would be stepping back from looking out for our interests, and can trust elected public service while taking pride in them to do their best in making thoughtful takethe survey, his two years on the council. and experienced decisions,” Caranci wrote “I can honestly say that ‘The People’ on his election Facebook page. LGBTQsurvey.com were the only special interest group I Sohn recently made history when he make a difference. represented. Each vote I made on the married his partner in the Florida Capitol LGBTQTake research the helps 14th non-profits, Annual universities dais was representative of the people that building in Tallahassee, the first time a and businesses better understand and elected me,” he said. “You can take that to same-sex marriage had been performed LGBTQ Community Survey® the bank.” there. serve our community. Caranci, 59, works for the City of West According to Sohn his time on the council hasn’t always been smooth sailing. Download survey results free of charge “I held my colleague’s feet to the fire LGBTQsurvey.com and they didn’t like that. I forced them to at cmi.info. become more active than they have been. LGBTQ research helps non-profits, universities I’ve challenged their way of thinking,” Sohn and businesses better understand and told SFGN before the election. “I’m not a serve our community. rubber stamp politician. I’m not a ‘yes’ man. I want to continue to be that lightning Download survey results free of charge rod for change.” at cmi.info. Haverhill is a small municipality in Palm Beach County located west of West Palm Beach near the Palm Beach International Airport. There are just 2,000 residents Proudly LGBTQ-Owned and -Operated living in the town. A pioneer in LGBTQ research since 1992. Your information is confidential, used for research purposes only. Daniel Sohn. Photo via You will not be contacted for marketing purposes. Daniel Sohn, Facebook.
Proudly LGBTQ-Owned and -Operated4.8.2020 • A pioneer in LGBTQ research since 1992. 11 Your information is confidential, used for research purposes only. You will not be contacted for marketing purposes. CONVICTIONS Publisher's Editorial FOX NEWS IS FIXED NEWS HOW THEIR NEGLIGENCE IS COSTING AMERICAN LIVES
x Norm Kent [email protected]
he Fox News team is a ray of sunshine corporate industrialist with a toxic political in these troubling times. Their anchors, agenda. We already know that Donald Tstaff and reporters light up a room like Trump can’t handle the truth. Rome could be a 15-watt bulb. burning, and he will tell you that nobody plays My grandmother used to teach me that the fiddle like he does. “half a truth is a whole lie.” Each hour and Too many Fox News hosts do not question every day, Fox News proves that it is the Fixed the president. They coronate him. That is News, delivering whole lies instead of hard not the duty of a newspaperman. You are not truths. supposed to be supplicant to authority and In one report last Sunday, a Fox news appease it. Your duty is to question it. reported that ‘8,600 Americans had recovered It is simply not okay to report that thousands from the corona virus’ They said nothing of Americans have recovered from the corona about the lives lost. Astounding virus without simultaneously stating that suing them is no easy task either, a court in so meaningless has now claimed 76,500 lives If the guys who ran this station were thousands more are dying from it. Washington will have a legitimate shot at globally, and over 11,000 in the United States captains of the Titanic, There are hospitals in New holding them accountable for their fake news. to date. The lies on Fox news air hourly. I they would go on the sound York City where refrigerated How is that for irony? What a double don’t care how much their hosts smile. It is system to tell the passengers trucks are lining up to carry whammy would it be if the first defendant with journalistically abominable. ‘we are making a brief stop to THE VIRUS THAT bodies away. You don’t cover a verdict entered against them for publishing One last thing, which probably won’t pick up ice.’ that up. You cover it. Fake News was Fox News? surprise you. Las month, Donald Trump The duplicity and FOX AND ITS Finally, someone is Why not? It can happen. became the first sitting president ever to file a deception poisoning the FRIENDS SAY WAS attempting to hold Fox If a group of jurors determined a station was suit against the New York Times. Fox Network is almost News accountable for its interested more in ratings than life, who knows At the start of this pandemic, he has filed a reminiscent of a North SO MEANINGLESS misleading representations. what kind of judgment they will render? Isn’t suit against the paper, claiming that it did not Korean news network There is a Washington state it about time Fox News paid the piper for being cover one of his rallies in Virginia fairly. This is praising the holiness of their HAS NOW based public interest group the president’s pimp? what the man cares about- himself, his whole leader. They have become CLAIMED 76,500 that has filed a suit against This is not just Norm Kent ranting. self, and nothing but himself. America’s state network. them for deception. Last month, 74 journalism professors and My legal opinion is that Trump’s suit is Ironically, even while LIVES GLOBALLY, The lawsuit claims journalists signed an open letter, addressed going nowhere. He won’t be able to meet the becoming the President’s Fox is repetitively airing to Rupert Murdoch, censuring the Fox news constitutional threshold that the paper acted toy box, he still criticizes AND OVER 11,000 false information that is network for its dangerous and deceptive with malice when publishing their report. any one of them if they fail IN THE UNITED endangering the public safety, coverage of the corona virus crisis. I won’t mislead you. That may protect Fox to tow his line. He measures and thereby negligently The plaintiff’s lawyers want a federal jurist to news, too. them not by integrity and STATES TO DATE. placing listeners and citizens enjoin them from telling bald-faced lies on the The standard for proving a newspaper independence, but allegiance of the state at risk. air. They stand a chance of winning. The state committed libel is you must show that the and loyalty. It’s frightening. The League for of Washington has a Consumer Protection paper knowingly presenting false information When a witness goes to take the stand in a Transparency and Ethics in Washington Act, which prohibits deceptive practices “in with a reckless disregard for the truth. I happen courtroom, they put their hand on the Bible state is seeking an injunction to prevent Fox the conduct of any trade or commerce.” to think Fox does that every day. Millions of and are asked to take an oath. They are asked News from “interfering with reasonable and The legal argument the plaintiffs are making Americans think not. Sadly, they are fixated by a simple question: “Do you promise to tell the necessary measures to contain the virus by is novel, but not unique. Think about all those the fixed news that is the Fox Network. truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the publishing false and deceptive comments.” tobacco companies getting sued for telling you The debate on public issues must be truth?” Ironically, it has been Mr. Trump himself cigarette smoking was just fine; that you have uninhibited, wide-open and robust, not Our courts and our constitution work who has spent the last three years demanding nothing to worry about. bowing to power. The Trump presidency and because we hope the witnesses are honest. If that the courts make it easier to sue journalists A few billion dollars’ worth of judgments his assault on the press poses a threat to our you swear to an oath and lie, it’s perjury. The and newspapers, calling for judges to “open up later, cigarette manufacturers were taught First Amendment freedoms. only reason some Fox hosts are not so charged the libel laws.” a lesson. There are warning labels on every Our government is here to serve us, not the is because they don’t swear to an oath before From the outset, Fox news hosts mocked carton of cigarettes you buy. Seat belts in every other way around. That is why 240 years ago they take the air. the coronavirus as a hoax. They treated the car, too. we fought a revolution against a king. We must Fox News instead swears to a Neanderthal potential pandemic as laughable. While The virus that Fox and its friends say was now do so again.
12 • 4.8.2020 Screening for Screening for COVID- COVID- FloridaHealth.gov/COVID- • Florida Department of Health FloridaHealth.gov/COVID- • Florida Department of Health
Are you experiencing symptoms? Are you experiencing symptoms? Symptoms may appear in – days after exposure to the virus. Symptoms may appear in – days after exposure to the virus.
101.4 101.4 FEVER COUGH SHORTNESS OF BREATH FEVER COUGH SHORTNESS OF BREATH
Have you returned from Have you returned from international travel or been on a international travel or been on a cruise within the last days? cruise within the last days?
Have you been around someone Have you been around someone diagnosed with COVID-? diagnosed with COVID-?
If you answered “yes” to any of the above questions, call your If you answered “yes” to any of the above questions, call your healthcare provider and the Florida Department of Health in healthcare provider and the Florida Department of Health in Broward County at (954) 412-7300 before visiting any healthcare Broward County at (954) 412-7300 before visiting any healthcare facility. facility. Guidance Guidance Self monitor for fever, cough, or other Wash hands often with soap and water for Self monitor for fever, cough, or other Wash hands often with soap and water for respiratory symptoms for days. at least seconds. respiratory symptoms for days. at least seconds. Avoid contact with sick people. Cover mouth and nose with a tissue or Avoid contact with sick people. Cover mouth and nose with a tissue or sleeve when coughing or sneezing. Throw sleeve when coughing or sneezing. Throw Delay any additional travel plans until no Delay any additional travel plans until no longer sick. the tissue in the trash. longer sick. the tissue in the trash.
Florida Health Office of Communications / / Florida Health Office of Communications / /
4.8.2020 • 13 DUE TO COVID-19, CLERGY ASK THAT YOU STAY Search - St Nicholas Episcopal Church SAFE AT HOME. PLEASE WATCH SERVICES ON & FACEBOOK AND/OR ONLINE. FIND DETAILS ON HOW TO WATCH ON OUR FACEBOOK PAGES Videos and Live Stream Sundays AND WEBSITES. THANK YOU AND BE WELL!
Sunday services SPIRITUALITY temporarily suspended.
Bingo & Thrift Shop SOUTHFLORIDAGAYNEWS.COM Dark for the short term.
www.stnicholasfl.org www.holygrill.org LISTINGS
ALL SOULS EPISCOPAL FOUNTAIN OF LOVE CHURCH MINISTRIES 4025 Pine Tree Drive. Miami Beach 5481 FL-7, Tamarac, FL 33319 Sundays at 8am and 10:30am. 954-486-5959 305-520-5410 | allsoulsmb.org fountainofloveonline.org Pastor Dallas Walker-Green The Criminal Defense law CenTer of souTh floriDa CONGREGATION Worship: Sunday Mornings at 11:00 am ETZ CHAIM 2038 N. Dixie Hwy (Pride Center Building OPEN HEART MEDITATION The Practice Of Law B), Wilton Manors Saturdays 3:30 - 5 p.m. 954-564-9232 - etzchaimflorida.org Pride Center - Room #200 Is No Practice. [email protected] www.heartofthemystery.com Friday Night Shabbat Service 8p.m. Four DecADes oF experience. ST. NICHOLAS EPISCOPAL A LiFetime oF trust. HOLY ANGELS CATHOLIC CHURCH COMMUNITY 1111 E. Sample Road, Pompano Beach 2917 NE 6th Avenue 954-942-5887 - stnicholasfl.org Wilton Manors [email protected] 954-633-2987 - HolyAngelsFL.net Sundays 8:00AM & 10:30AM (9:30AM only Sunday Mass at 11AM from Memorial Day through Labor Day)
CHRIST LUTHERAN CHURCH FIRST CONGREGATIONAL 1955 E. Oakland Park Blvd., UNITED CHURCH OF Ft. Lauderdale CHRIST (954) 564-7673 - christlutheranfl.org 1415 North K Street, Lake Worth [email protected] 561-582-6691 - fcclw.org Worship: Sunday 10:00am [email protected] Service Time: Sunday 10:30AM CHURCH OF OUR SAVIOR, 954.763.1900 MCC UNITED CHURCH OF CHRIST Russell Cormican Norman Elliott Kent Church of Our Savior, MCC FORT LAUDERDALE Attorney at Law Attorney at Law 2011 S. Federal Hwy. Boynton Beach. 2501 NE 30th Street, Fort Lauderdale 12 SE 7th St 2520 N. Dixie Hwy churchofoursaviormcc.org | 561-733-4000 (954)563-4271 - uccftl.org Fort Lauderdale, FL 33301 Wilton Manors, FL 33305 Sunday Service 10AM [email protected] Service Times: Thursdays 10:30AM (Elliot www.NormKent.com Hall) & Sundays 10:30AM (Sanctuary)
14 • 4.8.2020 FAITH & PRIDE SPIRITUALITY Join us on Facebook Live for our Shabbat service Friday night at 8pm
THE FIRST Please join us virtually until we can be together again, holding hands and singing our beautiful prayers EASTER Rev. Mark Andrew Jones St. Nicholas Episcopal Church Congregation Etz Chaim 2038 N. Dixie Hwy, Wilton Manors, FL 33305, on the Pride Center campus For more information: www.EtzChaimFlorida.org or 954-564-9232
Church of Our Savior, MCC 2011 s. Federal Hwy., “Love without judgement” Boynton Beach, FL Holy Angels 561-733-4000 National Catholic Church www,churchofoursaviormcc.org 2917 NE 6th Ave Wilton Manors, FL 33334 Until further notice: Due to the Facebook.com/HolyAngelsFL current COVID-19 pandemic, our www.HolyAngelsFL.org worship services are streamed on Facebook Live every Sunday at 954-633-2987 10 AM, rather than held at our church property. his Holy Week and Easter are like time.” But don’t despair. With a little care https://www.facebook.com/ nothing we’ve ever experienced. and compassion we’ll get by. We’ll not only ChurchofOurSaviorMCC. Visit our A home for your spirit. Services suspended and gatherings survive, we’ll thrive. T web site for more details & updates. Mass Schedule: Sabado 6:00 PM misa en español • of 10 or more prohibited. Normally, we seek to Pray and realize that science and medical Sunday 11:00 AM mass in English • All are welcome! liturgically participate in Jesus’ journey to the knowledge (as well as all that is derived from Cross and beyond; but this year’s prolonged the gift of reason) is part of the answer to Lenten journey is shrouded in a sense of real our prayers; so take prudent precautions. Due to COV-19, and palpable anxiety, maybe even fear: fear Listen to the advice of public health and Christ Lutheran Church of a world — and a virus — that we cannot medical experts. After all, Jesus walked Sunday Service control; a world that can become dark and among humanity as one who healed and is available at deadly. But don’t despair. With a little care analogized His ministry to that of the practice and compassion we’ll get by. We’ll not of medicine. www.christlutheranfl.org only survive, we’ll thrive. Also, maintain a sense of humor First, let’s use this existential and continue to live a life of Lenten experience to become gratitude, for we will get by; closer with God. Reflect on we will not only survive, we’ll what Jesus must have felt, thrive. We know how the particularly in those final story ends. God in Christ is Follow Christ Lutheran days when He faced death always with us, and God’s Church on Facebook amidst dark forces. Let’s love always triumphs in the reflect on the reality of His end. sacrifice for us. Think back to the first Let’s also offer up what we Easter. There were no crowded are feeling (the good, the bad, and churches back then. The disciples the ugly). Don’t think it inappropriate. had deserted Jesus at the Cross. Still, That’s the value of praying the Psalms. Every Easter came. Love triumphed over death. By human emotion (even the desire for revenge virtue of our baptism we are the Resurrection A LITTLE BIT OF FAITH — see, e.g., Psalm 137) are expressed in the People; we share in Christ’s victory. We share Psalms. Be yourself before God; for God prizes in the fact that love trumps death. AND authenticity. Let’s deepen a real, personal, We’re in this together. If we think of and honest relationship with Jesus Christ so one another, if we prudently act to protect PRIDE that our relationship with God might be all one another, if we really love our neighbor the more grace-filled and instructive for our and are willing to sacrifice convenience to SFGN is here for you, no matter who — or what lives. shelter-in-place, then lives will be saved and — keeps you going. Read our Spirituality Section This year we won’t be together for Easter the miracle of Easter celebrated all the more; to stay in touch with your local religious LGBT after 40 days of Lent. We might even need because love will have beaten death again. community. The only requirement? Be yourself. to shelter-in-place for 40 more days — the Be well, my friends, and may God continue equivalent in Jesus’ day of saying, “a long to bless you and your ministries. SEE MORE ONLINE AT SFGN.COM/TABLE/NEWS/RELIGION
4.8.2020 • 15 NEWS LOCAL PINK SUB AND FABSCOUT TEAM UP TO FEED SERVICE WORKERS Jason Parsley Photos by Carina Mask Howard Andrew (left), Dawn Holloway (center) and Dan Michael.
ink Sub and FabScout Entertainment teamed up last week to start giving away prepared Pmeals to service workers who have recently lost their job.
“It was a truly heartwarming thing to see people that needed food, get food,” said Howard Andrew, owner of FabScout. “I think more people need to reach out and help, and realize that Wilton Manors and the gay community is a community and people need to watch out for other people and not just themselves.” The next two giveaways will be at 6 p.m. in front of 2201 Wilton Drive (The Zig Zag Building) and in front of the Manor on Friday. Next week it will take place Tuesday and Friday, locations to be announced. During this time of crisis Dawn Holloway wanted to help in some way so she turned to the thing she knows best — feeding people. “One thing I can do is feed people like I’ve always done,” said Holloway, the owner of Pink Sub. “We are preparing meals for anyone that is in the service industry. They have waited on all of us. Put up with our shit. It’s time to take care of them. This was not their choice to not be able to work.” Holloway said some of her suppliers have donated vegetables, fruits and salad to the cause. “The community has always supported me and TO SEE I wanna cook for them,” Holloway continued. “We are not asking for anything in return other MANY MORE than please come get a meal and enjoy.” The first giveaway on Thursday was so PHOTOS, successful they immediately planned a second one Saturday that Oakland Park commissioner VISIT Jane Bolin sponsored. SFGN ON FACEBOOK. Call Howard Andrew at 954-290-6831 to volunteer or donate. One of many guests receives a free meal. Dawn Holloway offers a cookie.
16 • 4.8.2020 CONVICTIONS Off The Wall A MESSAGE FROM SFGN
MY 92-YEAR-OLD MOTHER During these difficult times, AND COVID-19 think positive thoughts.
Pier Angelo YOU ARE NOT STUCK AT HOME.
YOU ARE SAFE AT HOME.
Photo via Pixabay.
y 92-year-old mother in Italy lives and the US, I am sure they are buying alone and has been on lockdown for very cheap stocks everywhere. Visit SFGN.com and stay up to date on health alerts, event Msix weeks unable to see her other two schedules, and everything you need to know in our community. sons, grandchildren and friends. 3. Their economy is now booming She is very autonomous and sharp. with mass production of any type of Follows the news closely and tries to get as product and the infected world is forced much information about the state of the U.S. to buy from them, no competition, they since she is worried about me. are profiting from this invisible war. When this whole crisis started she was the They are laughing at your President’s one who was trying to give me strength. tariffs, something doesn’t add up son, The first thing she said was: “I lived and by the way: Bats have been around through WW2 for four years, this kind since the beginning of time, why did this of living is very familiar to me with a few kind of disease show up now? Could it differences: a) we had very little food, b) we be biological warfare? knew when the bombs were coming because an alarm would go off and we would run to And there are more observations that the bunkers or shelters, this virus is like I will not print because they might sound invisible bombs, c) after the raids were over preposterous but sometimes they keep me up we would go back home hoping it was still at night swirling in my brain in search of an standing and we could even socialize a bit. I answer that doesn’t come. survived, you will too.” I am not predisposed to paranoia, my We talk on the phone two or three times main concern is the incompetence of our a week and every time she comes up with government, the lies, the denial, the total something that makes me wonder. Here disregard for human suffering, the lack are some of the things she has said to of empathy, pettiness, inefficiency. It is a me in the last several weeks. It is almost despicable spectacle that makes a mockery of a sort of thinking out loud, a stream of the presidency. consciousness: It is almost criminal intent. The only thing we will be number 1 at is going to be the 1. The virus left Wuhan and spread number of deaths by the time this is over. worldwide but it did not reach Shanghai Going back to my mother the last thing nor Beijing, can you explain that? she said yesterday before hanging up was: And... it doesn’t seem to have afflicted “Complacency cripples. Hubris kills. And China’s allies North Korea or Russia blindness without guidance usually leads one much, strange. into the nearest wall if not hurtling down a flight of stairs.” 2. China’s stock market did not Stay home, stay safe, do your part and don’t collapse the same way it did in Europe expect help from the Insouciant in Chief.
4.8.2020 • 17 A&E FILM POPULAR GAY WEB SERIES, ‘EASTSIDERS’ DRAWS TO A CLOSE David-Elijah Nahmod
ince 2012 the dark comedy drama taken a paycheck because I wanted that money “EastSiders” has delighted audiences to go towards making the show the best it can Sand critics alike. A true labor of love, be.” “EastSiders’” first two episodes premiered on Williamson explained why he drew the show YouTube, which was followed by the series to a close, despite its popularity with viewers. being picked up by Logo TV’s website. People “I believe good stories have endings, loved it — “EastSiders” went on to receive and I didn’t want to constantly imperil the several Daytime Emmy Award nominations. characters’ relationships just to keep the story Thanks to the accolades and its growing going,” he said. popularity, “EastSiders” is now streaming The actor who plays Thom will be familiar worldwide on Netflix, where the fourth and to viewers of daytime TV. His portrayer, final season premiered in December 2019. Van Hansis, played Luke Snyder on the now The streaming giant carries the show’s entire cancelled soap opera “As the World Turns.” four season run. While Luke certainly wasn’t the first gay Openly gay Kit Williamson not only created character on afternoon television, he was the EastSiders, he also writes and directs it, and is first gay character to become part of what soap one of the stars. fans refer to as “supercouples” — Luke was “I wanted to depict queer characters involved in a romantic relationship with Noah with flaws and complexities,” (Jake Silbermann). Photo via Eastsiders, Facebook. Williamson said. “Back in Hansis described how he sees 2012 there was very little DRUNKEN Thom. Hansis noted that part of “EastSider’s” Halbach added that he felt it’s all been representation, and the OUTBURSTS FOLLOW “Over the course of the series, success comes from the onscreen chemistry he worth it, and that he was proud of what he and representation we did get wasn’t AS WILLIAMSON’S we see Thom, like all the central shares with Williamson. Williamson had accomplished. very substantive. I’ve drawn characters, stumble haphazardly “Kit’s a really wonderful person to work “I hope people can see some of themselves in inspiration from my life, my INSIGHTFUL SCRIPTS towards maturity,” Hansis said. opposite and he is such a great director,” he the stories we’ve told,” Halbach said. “I hope it friends and my neighborhood, FOLLOW THEIR “Thom is a writer and is Cal’s said. “He lets his actors do their thing and can serve as sort of a time capsule for life over but it isn’t an autobiographical ATTEMPTS TO FIX boyfriend. While there is a lot fully trusts them. We have just gotten really the last seven years. Since the show started the show.” of love between them, there comfortable with each other and there’s a level world has changed a lot, including marriage “EastSiders” tells the story of THE SOMETIMES SAD, are also a ton of issues. It’s not of trust there that makes it easy. Honestly, you equality becoming legalized, the arrival of Cal (Williamson) and Thom (Van SOMETIMES FUNNY that he’s not committed to Cal, can’t build chemistry — either it’s there or not. PrEP, and the election of Donald Trump. As the Hansis), a gay couple in the trendy MESS THEY’VE MADE but I think he sort of has code It’s up to the Gods.” real world changed, so did the world for our Los Angeles neighborhood of OF THEIR LIVES. of commitment, and often gets Also in the cast is John Halbach, real life characters.” Silver Lake. Cal and Thom are dazzled by all the shiny things husband of Williamson. Halbach plays Ian, an Halbach says that the ending of “EastSiders” struggling with the complexities around him. I think throughout allegedly straight guy whose been known to is bittersweet, and that he hopes they gave the of love and infidelity—Thom has a propensity the four seasons we see them intermittently fool around with guys now and again. Halbach characters and storylines satisfying endings. for cheating. grow together and apart and see how they can spoke of the challenges of working with and “I’ll mostly miss everyone getting together to Drunken outbursts follow as Williamson’s form a relationship that grows on their terms.” being directed by his own husband. celebrate a new season,” he said. “But we’re all insightful scripts follow their attempts to fix Hansis also spoke of the differences between “The challenge of making the show is that friends, so we’ll still see each other.” the sometimes sad, sometimes funny mess Thom and Luke. we literally take it home with us every day,” Williamson cannot speak highly enough of they’ve made of their lives. “Luke is about a decade younger than he said. “Thom and Cal’s apartment is our Netflix for picking up the show. Williamson said that it was the support of Thom,” he said. “He was around 21 or so when apartment, so we wake up on set every day, and “Being on Netflix brought the show to a the show’s fanbase which kept bringing it back World Turns ended, so I think he’s a lot more every day for the last seven years we’ve both worldwide audience,” he said. “We’re subtitled for additional seasons. immature than Thom is. Luke also has more of done something either to create or promote in over 30 languages now, and I get messages “Over the years we’ve raised nearly half a a sense of entitlement and is very headstrong the show. It’s a passion project and we love it, all the time from countries where it’s illegal million dollars through crowdfunding to make and knows what he wants. Thom has no clue but it’s also work with a capital W. Sometimes it or dangerous to be gay saying the show made the show,” said Williamson. “It’s incredible to what he wants and he tends to be very reactive would’ve been nice to take a break or have more them feel less alone. That’s been the most have the show backed by the fans. I’ve never to whatever is right in front of him.” resources.” rewarding thing.”
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