How George Castrataro Became an Accused Criminal

LOCAL NAME MAY 27, 2021 GLOBAL COVERAGE VOL. 12 // ISSUE 21 DISGRACED HOW GEORGE CASTRATARO BECAME AN ACCUSED CRIMINAL

PAGES 12 - 13

Latinos Salud Unveils New Home PAGE 10 Jesse Monteagudo Speaks on Florida PAGE 32 History of LGBT Military Bans PAGE 39

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@SFGN May 27, 2021 • Volume 12 • Issue 21 2520 N. Dixie Highway • Wilton Manors, FL 33305 Phone: 954-530-4970 Fax: 954-530-7943 FORT LAUDERDALE TO HOST Publisher • Norm Kent [email protected] Associate Publisher / Executive Editor • Jason Parsley 44TH ANNUAL PRIDE FESTIVAL [email protected] Editorial Everitt Rosen Art Director • Brendon Lies [email protected] Webmaster • Kimberly Swan fter a long and difficult year and with [email protected] Social Media Director • Christiana Lilly all the damage that the COVID-19 Arts/Entertainment Editor • J.W. Arnold pandemic has brought to large [email protected] A Food/Travel Editor • Rick Karlin gatherings and festivals, Fort Lauderdale has Gazette News Editor • John McDonald announced that it will be hosting its 2021 HIV Editor • Sean McShee Pride Festival Nov. 20-21 on Fort Lauderdale’s Senior Photographer • J.R. Davis beach. [email protected] In the announcement of the return of Fort Senior Feature Columnists Lauderdale Pride, they have announced that Brian McNaught • Jesse Monteagudo Pride Fort Lauderdale 2021’s theme will be Special to SFGN “Glitter and Gratitude.” Steve Rothaus “As we enter our 44th year as Floridas’ Correspondents first LGBTQ Pride festival, we are reminded Donald Cavanaugh • John McDonald Deon Jefferson • David-Elijah Nahmod of how far we’ve come and how much we Denise Royal • John Hayden • Elliot Rodriguez have to be grateful for,” said the president Kendall Little • Everitt Rosen • Corey Rose of Pride Fort Lauderdale, Miik Martorell, Contributing Columnists in a press release. “The LGBTQ community Pier Angelo • Terri Schlichenmeyer has seen significant changes in our Rick Karlin • Dana Rudolph • Ric Reily community and in society and this year’s Associate Photographers theme, Glitter and Gratitude, honors those A past Pride Fort Lauderdale. Photo via Facebook. Carina Mask • Steven Shires accomplishments.” Sales & Marketing With hundreds of gay-owned and operated On Nov. 18, Pride will present the Pride resources. This year, the festival will focus For ad placement in SFGN, businesses and the highest concentration Runway Fashion Show at The Seminole Hard on highlighting local trans programs and contact 954-530-4970 of same-sex households in the country, Rock Hotel & Casino, which will include services that can assist the LGBT community Sales Manager • Justin Wyse Fort Lauderdale welcomes 1.5 million LGBT designs by alumni from Bravo’s Project in recovering from the pandemic. [email protected] visitors annually. This tourism brings in a Runway along with local designers. “While we still have the work to do making Senior Advertising Associate • Edwin Neimann large amount of revenue for Greater Fort On Nov. 20-21, Pride 2021 will be an epic sure our trans and BIPOC [Black, Indigenous [email protected] Lauderdale, with an average of $1.5 billion. two-day beach festival that will include a and people of color] communities are Sales Consultant • Charles A. Reid Greater Fort Lauderdale is Florida’s LGBT street parade down A1A, three stages of included and represented, our past National Advertising capital, with one of the country’s main Pride entertainment, 150 vendors, headlining accomplishments prove that we can do Rivendell Media 212-242-6863 Centers, the world’s first AIDS museum, performances, and sunset concerts. Pride anything when we work together with love [email protected] the International Gay & Lesbian Travel 2021 has also partnered with AIDS Healthcare and sincerity,” said Martorell. Accounting Services by CG Bookkeeping Association’s (IGLTA) global headquarters, Foundation to feature an Afro Pride stage for The opening ceremonies will be held on Printing by Stuart Web Inc. and the Stonewall Museum, one of the performances during the weekend. Monday, Nov. 15, in collaboration with the country’s few permanent spaces dedicated Trans Pride is a celebration within Pride City of Fort Lauderdale, and will include to exhibits related to LGBT heritage and Fort Lauderdale’s festival that will feature the lifting of the rainbow flag high over our culture. local trans-led organizations, businesses and famed beach at Las Olas Boulevard. SFGN Winner of & 5 Florida Press Club Awards THERE’S MORE WILTON MANORS HIRES ASSISTANT POLICE And runner-up for CHIEF, CODE COMPLIANCE SUPERVISOR NLGJA Journalist of the Year ONLINE! Read SFGN.com to find out more. SOUTH FLORIDA GAY NEWS.COM, INC. — — FOUNDED, DECEMBER, 2009 Support our advertisers in the pages of SFGN! Their support helps make our journalism possible. BY PIER GUIDUGLI AND NORM KENT

South Florida Gay News is published weekly. The opinions expressed in columns, stories, and letters to the editor do not represent the opinions of SFGN, or the Publisher. You should not presume the sexual orientation or gender identity of individuals based on their names or pictorial SEE OUR COVER: George Castrataro. Photo via Facebook, edited by Brendon Lies. representations in SFGN. SFGN contracts with independent entities for stock images. Furthermore the word “gay” in SFGN should be interpreted to be inclusive of the entire LGBT community. All of the material/columns NEWS IN that appears in print and online, including articles used in conjunction with the AP, is protected under federal copyright and intellectual property VIDEO! 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 Online now! suitability of advertising copy, illustrations and photographs. Associated Press Copyright © 2021 South Florida Gay News.com, Inc.

2 • 5.27.2021 5.27.2021 • 3 NEWS LOCAL

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

Husbands Chris Ambs and Scott Clearwater. Sunserve Board Members Chair Victor Warren and Dr. Julio Capo.

Husbands Mark Turner and Chuck Nicholls from Engineer Ozzie Ogur and partner Dr. David Vega. Equality Garden Club and Tuesday’s Angels.

4 • 5.27.2021 NEWS LOCAL COMMUNITY OUTL K

JJ, a popular waiter at the Courtyard Cafe, on Wilton Drive, showcases one of the many delivery spots for SFGN and the Mirror, near the outdoor patio. Sean’s Courtyard Cafe is known for its hospitality and late night dining, along with its Applewood Maple Bacon and eggs. :-)

Photo credit: SFGN.

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5.27.2021 • 5 NEWS NATIONAL BY COREY ROSE

ACROSS COVERING LGBT NEWS SWEEPING THE COUNTRY THE NATION PENNSYLVANIA INDIANA

EX-FRAT MEMBERS ATTACK STUDENT LAUNCHES PETITION AFTER LGBT SAFE HOUSE SCHOOL BANS PRIDE FLAGS Students at Bucknell University are Over 4,380 people have signed a change. Bucknell University. Photo via Facebook. Photo via PxHere. calling on their administration to take org petition to allow Indiana teachers to permanent action after a physical attack on fly the pride flag in their classrooms after the campus LGBT affinity house earlier this three teachers at Pendleton Heights High month. School were reportedly told to take down Fran’s House Residential Adviser Tyler the symbols in their classrooms. Luong wrote in a letter that residents were Pendleton Heights Principal Connie preparing for finals as members of Tau Rickert told the Herald-Bulletin, Kappa Epsilon, a fraternity that was banned night’s transgression against the students “Teachers are legally obligated to maintain by the university in 2018 for violating of Fran’s House and, implicitly, many viewpoint neutrality during their official hazing policies, surrounded the house, others, but we can commit to addressing it duties to ensure all students can focus on LGBT students in the district sounded off. beating on doors and windows, urinating in a way that protects LGBTQ Bucknellians learning and we can maintain educational Bryce Axel-Adams, who started the on the porch, and demanding that the and better ensures their safety in the activities and school operations.” online petition, told the Indy Star, “We’re students let them in. He also described future.” The pride flag is widely seen as a way tired of having so little representation. how the campus Public Safety department The university has banned the seniors for both closeted and LGBT youth to We’re tired of having people act like our arrived late, ignored the residents of the who participated in the attack from the know they are in a safe, affirming space. feelings don’t matter, like our mental house and shook hands with the offenders. school’s graduation ceremony, but Fran’s After South Madison Board of Trustees health doesn’t matter.” In a May 14 letter sent to students, House residents said they want to see the President Bill Hutton inaccurately drew The petition, Axel-Adams said, will Bravman wrote, “We cannot erase the house become a permanent LGBT safe comparisons between the pride flag and continue until the flags are allowed in ugliness and subsequent trauma of last house. flags that represent white supremacy, classes once again. ILLINOIS NEW YORK

MAYOR LIMITS INTERVIEWS COPS UN-BANNED, THEN RE-BANNED TO POC JOURNALISTS FROM NYC PRIDE Chicago Mayor Lori Lightfoot drew Chicago Mayor Lori Lightfoot. Photo via Facebook. Just days after Heritage of Pride NYC Police. Photo via PublicDomainPictures.net. mixed reactions after her unique organizers announced that uniformed decision to limit coverage of her two- NYPD officers were banned from NYC year anniversary as mayor to one-on- pride until 2025, members voted to allow one interviews with Black and Brown the Gay Officers Action League (GOAL) to reporters. march in uniform. Lightfoot, the city’s first Black woman Shortly after, the executive board voted mayor and first openly gay mayor, to overturn the decision, standing in their the intersections of these identities.” expressed disappointment in the lack of initial ruling to keep armed and uniformed GOAL President Brian Downey told Gay diversity among the press corps in a May offices out of the parade “in an effort to City News, “We are still disappointed with 19 statement. Medill School of Journalism at be mindful and focus on our mission the executive leadership of Heritage of “There is almost no one in the Northwestern University Dean Charles of creating safe space for marginalized Pride and their stance on our participation.” editorial boardrooms or in the City Hall Whitaker told the Chicago Tribune, “I communities,” according to a letter sent to The first pride marches were protests press corps who have themselves lived don’t necessarily know that it is the best HOP membership. in response to violent attacks by NYPD the experience of a woman of color in way. We would never, ever in a million The board wrote, “The NYPD, and officers on queer communities of color, and the city of Chicago,” Lightfoot wrote. years allow that of a white politician. policing across America, is fundamentally the board said the abuse hasn’t stopped, “It is impossible for this glaring lack in And so it’s dangerous now to say we are flawed. These are institutions that started citing 2020 attacks on queer protestors last diversity to not be reflected in the daily going to allow that of a Black politician as slave patrols, and continue to oppress summer following George Floyd’s death. coverage of government, politics, and simply to make a point about the historic Black, Brown, Indigenous, POC, LGBTQ The board plans to schedule another city life.” inequities in the media.” individuals, and individuals who stand at meeting to discuss the issue.

6 • 5.27.2021 NEWS INTERNATIONAL BY EVERITT ROSEN

AROUND EXPLORING LGBT NEWS EVENTS ACROSS THE WORLD THE GLOBE ASIA EUROPE

LGBT CAMPAIGNERS ACCUSE JAPANESE ACTIVISTS URGE ITALY TO ADOPT LAWMAKERS OF VIOLATING OLYMPIC SPIRIT ANTI-HOMOPHOBIA LAW Rights campaigners have accused Photo via PublicDomainPictures.net. A law proposed by Alessandro Zan, Alessandro Zan. Photo via Facebook. Japan’s leading politicians of betraying a Member of Parliament with the the Olympic spirit by making Democratic party, has been passed by homophobic comments such as same- the lower house and will go to the Senate sex marriages “resist the preservation of for approval. the species.” This law would punish discrimination Channel News Asia reported that, and hate crimes against LGBT and according to Jiji Press, at the closed-door disabled people as well as misogyny. conference, Liberal Democratic Party According to Euronews, both the member Eriko Yamatani also slammed church and extreme right politicians transgender athletes. Athlete Ally, a U.S.-based advocacy have opposed the measure, making “Some people have stated an opinion organization, Pride House Tokyo, a claims that it will suppress opinion and that they have a male body but they cultural center formally recognized as religious beliefs. “This government will be in office only are women. Therefore, they should be part of the Olympic program, slammed While the Italian Bishops Conference for another year and a half. There is not allowed to use the women’s restroom. the remarks. has previously cautioned that the much time left, if the proposed law will Or they participate in women’s sports “These comments, if true, are in proposed bill could “suffocate’’ those be modified, it has to be sent back to the and win medals. A number of ridiculous violation of the spirit of the Olympics who hold more conservative values, its lower house for approval,” said Claudio things are happening,” she reportedly and Paralympics which Tokyo is hoping president has encouraged policymakers Mazzella, president of the Circolo Mario said. to host,” they said, according to Channel to amend the legislation rather than Mieli project, according to Euronews. In a joint statement issued with News Asia. repeal it. AFRICA SOUTH AMERICA

POLICE IN GHANA ARREST TRANS BRAZILIAN COUNCILWOMAN 21 LGBT ACTIVISTS FORCED TO EXILE AFTER DEATH THREATS Ghanaian police announced Friday A police car in Accra, Ghana. Photo via Gkbediako, Wikipedia. On May 13, it was announced that Benny Briolly. Photo via Facebook. that they had arrested 21 people for Benny Briolly, the first transgender allegedly pushing an LGBT agenda at an woman elected to the City Council of illegal assembly in Ho, in the country’s Nitero in Rio de Janeiro, had fled her southeast. homeland after receiving death threats. According to the police press release, According to the U.S. Network for the 16 women and five men were Democracy in Brazil, Briolly, a Black arrested May 20 at a hotel for nurses and supporter of Brazil’s PSOL (Socialism midwives, where they allegedly met to and Liberty Party), won the most votes promote LGBT events with books and among the women elected to the city leaflets titled “Coming Out” and “All council in the 2020 municipal elections. about Trans.” Her election was seen by many as According to Reuters, all detainees will a clear challenge to the oppressive, appear before a court June 4. misogynistic, and homophobic Brazilian The group convened to exchange state. The threats that she has received information about how to register and include everything from threats to bodily and international human rights groups, report human rights abuse faced by LGBT injury to death threats, and others have as well as reporting the attacks to law Ghanaians, according to Rightify Ghana. taking images, took their belongings, even included her home address. enforcement for investigation. Briolly “The press teamed up with the police and arrested them,” the rights group said The councilwoman confirmed that she will continue to serve as a councilwoman to storm the meeting location, started in a post on Twitter. has filed formal charges with national virtually.

5.27.2021 • 7 LGBTQIA BITES BY KENDALL LITTLE IT’S NOT ALWAYS ABOUT THE G ... HERE’S WHAT ELSE IS HAPPENING IN THE LGBTQIA COMMUNITY Non-Binary NB T Transgender DEMI LOVATO COMES OUT TYLER TITUS ON TRACK ON BECOMING THE AS NONBINARY FIRST TRANS COUNTY EXECUTIVE

Pop icon Demi Lovato came out as Tyler Titus won the Democratic primary nonbinary May 19 through a Twitter video. for county executive in Erie County of They also announced that they are updating Pennsylvania. If they win the election, they their pronouns to they/them. will be the first out transgender person to “I feel that this best represents the fluidity hold such a position in the United States. I feel in my gender expression, and allows me “My name may have been on the ballot to feel most authentic and true to the person today, but this victory is ours,” Titus said I both know I am and still am discovering,” to Go Erie. “This victory belongs to the Lovato said. working people of Erie County. This victory Fans flocked to Twitter to show their belongs to those who want new leadership, support for the singer. who believe in Erie’s future.” “I see you, Demi. Congrats, hope you feel Demi Lovato. Photo via Facebook. They prioritize healthcare for all, a lot more free now that you can be true to education, and economic justice, according Tyler Titus. Photo via Facebook. yourself as a non-binary person. Good luck today Revolving hearts Here are a few great to their website. with your journey of discovery!” one Twitter organizations and leaders who actively “Growing up in rural poverty, I who have been left behind.” user wrote. offer education and support Rightwards experienced first-hand what it means to In November, Titus will compete against Lovato also linked informative profiles for arrow @glaad @HRC @TrevorProject have an economy that only works for those Republican opponent Brenton Davis to their followers to look into. @LALGBTCenter @alokvmenon @mattxiv at the top,” Titus said. “That’s why I’ve secure the position of county executive. “Thank you for your love & support @them,” they tweeted. dedicated my career to working with those

8 • 5.27.2021 LGBTQIA BITES Q Queer QUEER TV FESTIVAL TO PREMIERE JUNE 4

To celebrate Pride month, LGBT film festival Outfest is hosting a free panel discussion featuring stars, writers, producers, and directors of iconic queer TV shows. The OutFronts launch June 4, with five days of digital panels on shows like “Love, Victor,” “It’s a Sin,” “L Word: Generation Q,” and more according to the Advocate. The panel will discuss how feminism, race, HIV, and disabilities are shown on TV and the importance of representation. “More often now it’s on television, streaming and digital content, making it much more accessible to various audiences,” Outfest Executive Director Damien S. Navarro said in a statement. “Instead of fitting these shows into one of our film festivals, we recognized that fans should have the opportunity to come together and celebrate these stories as well as our filmmakers, alumni, “L Word: Generation Q” will be one of the and industry partners.” shows featured. Image via Outfest, Facebook.

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5.27.2021 • 9 NEWS LOCAL LATINOS SALUD GIVES SNEAK PEEK OF NEW WILTON MANORS LOCATION

John Hayden

A peek at the new location. Photo via Latinos Salud, Facebook.

he first goal of Latinos Salud has always was becoming evident. been to make you feel at home and not “We’re able to serve walk-in clients faster Tat a clinic. Now they have a new home than most clinics or agencies can serve their themselves. clients who have appointments,” he said. “But After years of growth in community and we have noticed our times are getting a bit need for services, they outgrew their spot on longer than we’d like. We simply haven’t had Wilton Drive and on May 19 took the public enough rooms, or enough staff, to keep up with on a tour of their new location at 1401 NE 26th the demand for HIV testing, STD screening, Street. and now our free PrEP services.” “Our grand opening was an amazing The new location doubles the number opportunity to re-engage in person as a of rooms to see clients, and across all their group,” Executive Director Stephen Fallon locations they are expanding staff by 25%. said. “We saw friends from our early days on As recognition of their efforts, the Wilton through to our newest members. Several staff Manors Community Affairs Advisory Board members mentioned afterward how much honored them with the Community Spirit they felt reinvigorated, feeling that bond to the Award for Organization of the Year and named community again.” May 5 as Latinos Salud Day. Despite the pandemic Latinos Salud Latinos Salud has been around for about 12 continued its mission of serving the latinx years and has grown from a small “clubhouse” community by providing full services where Ethos restaurant now has its kitchen, including STD/HIV testing and counseling in a to a large iconic building. When they opened comfortable and timely manner. their Wellness Clinic last year they knew a But Fallon said the strain on their facilities larger space would be needed sooner rather than later. In addition to helping more people WE ARE A FACTORY CERTIFIED REPAIR FACILITY FOR free of charge, the clinic also made Latinos HONDA, CHRYSLER, NISSAN, ACURA, FORD, HYUNDAI, Salud eligible for more federal grants. That INFINITI, GM, KIA AND FIAT “SEVERAL STAFF MEMBERS money was able to help secure the new 26th Street space without taking money set aside MENTIONED AFTERWARD for helping clients. HOW MUCH THEY FELT “Over one-third of our clients come to us because of a referral from a friend who told F All insurance claims accepted C REINVIGORATED, FEELING them that this is a safe space, where they’ll be F Over 40 years of experience treated right,” Fallon said. C THAT BOND TO THE Latinos Salud’s new home means clients will 4561 NW 8TH AVENUE feel right at home now more than ever. COMMUNITY AGAIN.” “When community members come through OAKLAND PARK, FL 33309 - Stephen Fallon our door, whether off the bus, out of their cars, or walking in, we want everyone to feel right at EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF LATINOS SALUD home, like they’re meeting a trusted friend for (954) 491-3904 advice and connections,” he said. Body Shop Manager FRAN REGNO FTLCOLLISION.COM To learn more about Latinos Salud, check out their website at latinossalud.org.

10 • 5.27.2021 5.27.2021 • 11 NEWS LOCAL GEORGE CASTRATARO ONE YEAR LATER HOW A PROMINENT GAY ATTORNEY BECAME AN ACCUSED CRIMINAL

Jason Parsley

George Castrataro. Photo via Facebook, edited by Brendon Lies.

12 • 5.27.2021 NEWS LOCAL

argued that he had “inadvertently” missed The Florida Bar investigated these the hearing, thinking it was at a different improprieties and found Castrataro guilty hen George Castrataro told Bill Roddy the post office lost time. of unlawfully misappropriating his funds. Castrataro told SFGN yesterday that he “[My brother] really wanted to leave my all the inheritance checks supposedly mailed to family, believes his current predicament is just a big brothers and I something and this happens. friends, and charities, Roddy sensed something was fishy. misunderstanding. It’s terrible,” said Nunes, 74. W “I regret that given the pending case I am Her brother Robert, 93, died in March of very limited in what I am able to say. This 2019. year has been difficult,” Castrataro told “I’ve never really had time to grieve,” she Roddy, who lives in North Carolina, had including his father and sister, Jan Blanton. SFGN. said. hired Castrataro and his law office to oversee To this day, they have not received a He added, “I believe that the things Castrataro owes her family $92,537. his deceased son’s estate. penny of it. that have been alleged and reported are “[Castrataro] went through all of this Everything seemed to be going smoothly The ceiling crashed down on Castrataro inaccurate. I am confident that once the schooling, then decides to do this and throw with the case until September of 2019, when one year ago this month, when he was matter is resolved, I will be able to clear my his life away,” she said. “It’s such a shame. Roddy, 84, and his family, failed to receive arrested by the Fort Lauderdale Police name.” Florida has so many different crooks.” the proceeds of their son’s will. Department for defrauding multiple clients Currently out of jail on a $32,500 A Broward Circuit Court had ordered the out of hundreds of thousands of dollars. bond, Castrataro faces first degree felony SUMMARY funds be distributed to them weeks before. In November of 2020, based on a series of charges and is accused of stealing nearly When the money never arrived, Castrataro complaints by a host of victims, the Florida $600,000.00 from the inheritances of his The 2020 probable cause warrant for his first told them that all the checks were lost Bar disbarred Castrataro, taking away his law clients’ estates. arrest stated that Castrataro “engaged in a in the mail. license forever. The charging documents accuse systematic and ongoing unlawful scheme … Subsequently, Roddy pressed Wayne Roddy’s sister Jan Castrataro of failing to pay heirs, but with the intent to defraud” lawful heirs out Castrataro for answers and “I’M NOT A Blanton, said she believes it instead keeping the proceeds of the estates of their property. his inheritance. Castrataro YOUNGSTER was her family’s complaints to for himself and his own use. The State of Florida claims that many of followed through and sent the Florida Bar that initiated Since other potential victims are not the clients who were allegedly Castrataro’s Roddy a $12,000 check for AND IT’S TAKEN the investigation that wound included in these criminal charges, the real victims were and are elderly, and relied on his portion of the estate. He A TOLL ON ME, up costing Castrataro his law amount of Castrataro’s alleged thefts could his false representations that the estates promptly deposited the check. license — and may cost him prove to be even greater. were still open and being litigated. The following day, when ESPECIALLY his freedom, if he’s found The Florida Bar called that a lie and Roddy attempted to draw upon WHEN SOMEBODY guilty. MORE VICTIMS COME FORWARD prosecuted Castrataro for the fraud. While those funds, by using his debit STEALS YOUR Blanton does not believe she Castrataro resigned from the Florida Bar card at Walmart, to his surprise will ever see any money from For example, Donna Nunes, 74, who lives initially last summer, the Bar conducted the card was declined. He SON’S ESTATE.” Castrataro, so now her only in California, has also accused Castrataro of a further investigation and proved he rushed over to his bank, where option to get what is owed to ripping her off. continued to practice law without a license, - Bill Roddy he discovered Castrataro had her would be to make a claim Castrataro handled her brother’s estate. prompting his permanent disbarment. FORMER CLIENT placed a stop payment on his through the Florida Bar’s She told SFGN a story similar to that of Bill For Castrataro, not practicing law check. Clients Security Fund. Roddy and Jan Blanton. When Nunes didn’t anymore could be the least of his many Roddy and his banker called Castrataro, This fund helps compensate people who receive her funds, Castrataro used the same problems. who gave yet another excuse and promised have suffered a loss of money or property excuse that checks were lost in the mail. If convicted of all the felonies he is to overnight a cashier’s check. due to misappropriation or embezzlement When Nunes and her brothers finally presently charged with, Castrataro is It never happened, and that was the last by an attorney. However, the reimbursement received her checks, they all bounced as looking at a mandatory prison term of at he ever heard from Castrataro. But it was is minimal compared to the loss. well. least 42 months in jail. the beginning of exposing a series of lies and deceptions that has led to Castrataro’s CASTRATARO’S DOWNFALL arrest and disbarment. Before his arrest, Castrataro was a well- THE TOLL ON THE VICTIMS known and reputable gay attorney, who had served on multiple nonprofit LGBT boards, Bill Roddy’s son Wayne died in 2019 from including Care Resource. He also launched pancreatic cancer. He was 57. Wayne had an unsuccessful bid for the city commission been a yoga and dance teacher. According in Fort Lauderdale four years ago. to his family, he also had background as a Castrataro’s criminal case has repeatedly paralegal. Thus, before he died, he made sure been postponed for a year due to the all of his affairs were in order. pandemic, deferring prosecutions for The simple estate should have been months. smooth sailing for an experienced lawyer to This month Castrataro was finally set for probate. It wasn’t. an arraignment, where he pleaded not guilty “I mean that’s what we’ve had to go to the charges, but not without incident. through so far,” Bill said. “I’m not a youngster Castrataro actually missed his court date and it’s taken a toll on me, especially when two weeks ago, and the judge issued a new somebody steals your son’s estate.” warrant for his arrest. However, last week the George Castrataro’s mugshot. Photo via the Broward Sheriff’s Office. Wayne had left $49,111 to 12 beneficiaries court dismissed the warrant after Castrataro

5.27.2021 • 13 NEWS LOCAL Don’t miss a tastE Feeling the hunger? Read SFGN’s weekly food column for an exclusive bite on local bars, restaurants, and seasonal flavors. sFGn.com/FooD

Kevin Hirsh (left) with his partner. Photo by Santy Martinez, courtesy of Kevin Hirsh. LOCAL MAN TO APPEAR ON ‘JEOPARDY’ MONDAY

John Hayden

he answer is: what it takes to be he said. “It doesn’t matter if you have all a contestant on “Jeopardy!” The the knowledge if you’re not good with the Tquestion: what is a lot of knowledge buzzer.” and a little luck? He also studied how the clues are revealed. Kevin Hirsh is living the quiz show dream “The thing about ‘Jeopardy’ clues is that as a contestant on the show. they’re written in such a way that they give “I used to watch ‘Jeopardy’ a lot as a kid. It you a lot of hints as to how to answer them was a family bonding activity that I used to properly,” he said. “The writers have a certain do with my dad in particular,” he said. way of writing clues that if you watch the Hirsh said it’s been a long-time dream of show enough times you can figure out their his to be on the game show. line of thinking and you can probably figure Getting past the first round is hard enough. out what the answer to the question is.” Hirsh took the computer test several times The guest host next week will be Mayim before he got called for a regional audition. Bialik from “The Big Bang Theory” and That doesn’t mean it took that long to get a “Blossom.” good score, it just means it took that long to “I found her to be a wonderful host,” Hirsh get lucky. said. “She did a really good job of keeping Thousands do well on the test each year. the pace going with the game. She was very From that group the show randomly chooses approachable, very friendly. She took the who moves on. He got the call nearly two time to get to know us when cameras weren’t years ago and was set to be a contestant in rolling. She was really lovely and a very sweet February 2020. Because of the pandemic, person. I really loved having her as my host.” the set of “Jeopardy” shut down before Hirsh Hirsh is an attorney who was born and could do his shoot. Finally, he got his chance. raised in Miami Beach, and moved to the “A year passes and I figure I’ll email the Wilton Manors area last year with his fiancé, producers and see what’s going on, and that’s Eric Scheiner. His very proud mother bought when they scheduled me for this taping,” a new television and borrowed a projector Hirsh said. for an optimal viewing experience. Hirsh spent his evenings watching old “My mother is so excited about the whole episodes using a pen for a buzzer. thing,” he said. “She’s organizing a watch “It was easy to watch two or three episodes party at her house. She’s having the whole MEDICARE AND PRIVATE INSURANCE ACCEPTED a night and practice with a pen for the thing catered, she’s really outdoing herself.” buzzer. That’s what’s important ultimately,”

You can catch Hirsh on “Jeopardy” Monday, May 31 at 7:30 p.m. on WPLG channel 10.

14 • 5.27.2021 and

5.27.2021 • 15 NEWS LOCAL CONSERVATIVE SLAMS THE PALACE AFTER CHILDREN DANCED WITH DRAG QUEENS Christiana Lilly

alace South Beach came under attack after a video from April Pposted by a right-wing influencer surfaced of children dancing with a drag queen and collecting money from the crowd.

Angela Stanton-King, who was famously Her followers applauded her, saying she pardoned by former President Donald Trump exposed child abuse, child trafficking, and and has 300,000 followers on Instagram, proclaimed that this is “Biden’s America.” In posted the video during a visit to the club on another post, she called on the Palace to “ban April 15 and claimed that the children were children from your x-rated establishment.” being sexually exploited. Later, she shared that she is in need of an “What is the difference between these attorney and is in an “undisclosed location” two girls taking a photo and frolicking because her physical safety had been around fashion show runway style with a threatened. She shared her CashApp name drag queen or two girls being for donations and said that called on stage at Disney and reporter Christian De La dancing around with Elsa or Rosa, who reported the story Snow White? Homophobia “THE for Local 10, the station, and Screenshots of the post. Photo via @theangelastanton, Instagram. and transphobia,” Anthony Palace “need to be sued for Michael, the director of HORRENDOUS Defamation and Slander.” platform was prison reform, anti-abortion, Stanton-King has a transgender daughter, operations at Palace, wrote in She has “EXPOSE CHILD and uplifting the Black community. who she continually misgenders. She an email. COMMENTS TRAFFICKING” on her “She came there with an agenda,” appeared on the “Dr. Phil” show on April 5, On her Instagram, she Instagram bio, and she Michael continued in his email. “She is a where she said, “I won’t accept my son as a shared two videos from her AND has posted numbers of convicted criminal who was pardoned not woman.” However, she wasn’t happy with trip to Palace — the first homophobic, transphobic, for innocence but for her rallying support how her interview went and dragged the talk with the two sets of young EMAILS AND anti-vaxxer and anti-mask of former President Trump. She was never show host on Twitter, which led to the social girls dancing with the drag posts, as well as other QAnon rehabilitated but [came up] with a new media platform suspending her account. queen outside and taking REMARKS conspiracy theories such method of stealing money very similar to “Twitter suspended my account because money from customers who as Melinda Gates being a the phone scams we receive — she finds a I’m BLACK,” she wrote on Instagram. were seated. The Ocean HAVE PUT man. A popular QAnon topic and creates lies and a scandal to raise Michael criticized Instagram for not Drive drag bar has been in EVERYONE theory grew over the Trump Venmo and cash app monies. She preys on doing the same when Stanton-King’s posts business for more than 30 presidency that politicians other right-wing extremists to help broaden lead Palace’s account to be inundated years with larger-than-life ON UNEASY and Hollywood celebrities her agenda.” with spam and hate, including one person drag performers and dancers. are part of an underground On social media, she continually shares commenting, “I hope y’all end up like Drawing a crowd every day, GROUND.” child trafficking ring; SFGN homophobic and transphobic news stories Pulse,” referring to the 2016 shooting at the the performances often are reported on the Save the and memes. In March 2020, she tweeted Pulse nightclub in Orlando that killed 49 standing-room-only. - Anthony Michael Children movement last year. that the LGBT community is “confusion, guests. But Stanton-King was not DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS Stanton-King is an author, pedophilia and sexual exploitation wrapped “Why would she come to a famously known impressed by what she saw AT PALACE television personality, and up in acceptance.” On May 18, she posted LGBT restaurant bar with [transgender] during her visit — the two the founder of the American a photo on Instagram of 13-year-old Zaya and drag entertainers, when she has a well- sets of girls joined the drag King Foundation; she is the Wade, the daughter of retired NBA basketball known hatred for our community?” Michael queen for a matter of seconds and took bills goddaughter of Alveda King, the niece of player Dwyane Wade, who recently came out asked. “The horrendous comments and from customers. One child gave the money the late Martin Luther King, Jr. She went to as trans. She wrote, “They’re letting us know emails and remarks have put everyone on to the performer. According to Local 10, the prison for more than two years from a 2004 what their agenda is. IDC what y’all say, it’s uneasy ground. Our community has endured children were with their parents. federal conviction for her involvement in a not right. This is a man child.” She also shared so much over the past century, but I can “I feel very offended and disrespected by stolen car ring and was pardoned by Trump a screenshot of a tweet from President Joe assure you that we will always rise up and being a survivor of sexual abuse,” Stanton- in February 2020. She was an outspoken Biden showing his support for International defend ourselves, we are no longer allowing King told an employee in a second video, supporter of his and a 2020 Republican Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia and anyone to make us victims. We deserve our likening it to the children being at a strip candidate for Georgia’s 5th congressional Biphobia, in which she asked, “Why do they place at the table and we will have our voices club. district, challenging the late John Lewis. Her keep leaving out heterophobia?” heard.”

16 • 5.27.2021 5.27.2021 • 17 REMEMBERING PULSE | FIVE YEARS LATER PULSE ‘REMEMBRANCE WEEK’ EVENTS TO BE IN-PERSON, VIRTUAL Damon Scott

fficials at the onePULSE Foundation have released the lineup of activities that will Omark five years since the Pulse Nightclub shooting in Orlando on June 12, 2016.

Unlike last year, the community-wide them a space to remember their loved ones “Remembrance Week” events will be held in peace. in-person, but with many virtual options The ceremony also honors all who as well. The weeks’ worth of activities run survived as well as the first responders from June 5 to June 12. and trauma teams who were involved. The The week begins with the annual 4.9K ceremony takes place at the Pulse interim CommUNITY Rainbow Run at Wadeview memorial for a limited, invitation-only Park. The distance is representative of the audience. 49 lives that were lost in the tragedy. To However, the public is invited to watch register for the in-person or virtual option, a live stream of the ceremony at the front go to communityrainbowrun.com. lawn of the Dr. Phillips Center for the The week concludes with a remembrance Performing Arts. More information is ceremony June 12. Organizers said it is at drphillipscenter.org. The ceremony designed to bring together the families of will also be accessible on the onePULSE Photo via the onePULSE Foundation, Facebook. those whose lives were taken and provide Facebook page and on its YouTube channel. OTHER HIGHLIGHTS OF THE WEEK INCLUDE:

Straight Men Real Makeup benefit – June 6 at 6 p.m. at the HÄOS on Church restaurant. Eight straight men will step out of their comfort zone and individually perform a choreographed routine to a song of their choice while dressed in full drag. For tickets, go to https://bit.ly/2RQgUFW.

An Evening of Reflection and Promise – June 7 at 7 p.m. at the Dr. Phillips Center. The One Orlando Alliance is hosting an interfaith opportunity to name the effects of the religiously based discrimination on the LGBT community and create pathways for healing, featuring a panel of LGBT people of diverse faith and thought backgrounds. Information is at oneorlandoalliance.org.

My Portraits of Pulse – An Orlando United Story – June 8 at 7:30 p.m. at the Dr. Phillips Center. J.D. Casto, a professional photographer, captured thousands of images in the weeks and months after the Pulse tragedy, experiencing events like no other person. This is the story of Pulse as told through his eyes. More is at drphillipscenter.org.

49 Bells – June 12 at noon at the First United Methodist Church of Orlando. More is at firstchurchorlando.org.

Pulse Remembrance by DeLand Pride – June 12 at 2 p.m. at the Abbey Bar. Gathering begins at 2 p.m. From there the group will walk down to the corner of New York Ave. and Woodland Blvd. to read the names of the Angels lost and honor all those affected by the shooting at the Pulse nightclub. Participants are encouraged to bring signs and rainbow flags.

FOR A COMPLETE LIST OF IN-PERSON AND VIRTUAL ACTIVITIES, GO TO ONEPULSEFOUNDATION.ORG. A past annual 4.9K CommUNITY Rainbow Run. Photo via Facebook.

18 • 5.27.2021 THE GAZETTE VOLUME 8 • ISSUE 11 MAY 27, 2021 FACEBOOK.COM/GROUPS/WMGAZETTE

OAKLAND PARK COMMUNITY Oakland Park Returning to Normal As COVID Cases Decline By Christiana Lilly

The coronavirus pandemic may not be over the cities of Fort Lauderdale and Wilton yet, but Oakland Park residents can see the Manors and largely staffed by city employees light at the end of the tunnel. on a volunteer basis. Hebert said staff have During the city commission’s May 18 been sharing resources to attendees of other meeting, City Manager David Hebert made places they can get assistance. his final coronavirus presentation as well as The city’s vaccination pod at Collins announced updates on city Community Center is no programming. longer open; many locations “I just really want to say have closed as the demand for thank you to everyone,” Mayor The city’s vaccinations has decreased. Jane Bolin said. “I’m glad that vaccination Some programs will continue, this is our last presentation; however, including rental it really highlights how pod at Collins assistance, water bill payment we really stepped up as options, and help with Comcast a team from some really Community Center bills. remarkable leadership is no longer open; “I think we’re just at the from this commission, the precipice of what’s going to city manager, and senior many locations impact our most vulnerable leadership.” communities in Oakland Park,” For over a year, Hebert have closed as Bolin said. has made a presentation Hebert announced that to the commission at each the demand for the city’s Parade of Orchids meeting to update them on vaccinations has program surpassed its $10,000; Oakland Park. Photo via Facebook. coronavirus numbers locally residents have the opportunity and at the state level, as well decreased. to adopt an orchid to be planted as information about the at Stunson Nature Trail Park for Hebert also told the commission that we rolled back on our operations.” city’s outreach programs. just $5 as a thank you to people the city will be opening up its summer After the presentation, the commissioners As numbers continue to decline, he will no who have gone above and beyond during programming for kids, including childcare, gave a special thanks to city staffers who have longer be giving these presentations but will the pandemic. The first 100 orchids were but in limited numbers. Some adult activities volunteered their time and worked overtime still keep tabs on the virus. planted last summer by the Fort Lauderdale will also be opening back up. to get the city through the pandemic. The city will also be discontinuing its Orchid Club and Fairchild Botanical Gardens. “This rollout is being done cautiously and Commissioners gave a special thank you to weekly drive-through food distribution Proceeds from the fundraiser go to the Urban strategically until we get to a point where Commissioner Matthew Sparks, who served events at Mills Pond Park in Fort Lauderdale Farming Institute, the city’s community we get more comfortable,” he said. “We will as mayor at the beginning of the pandemic, on May 27. The events are a partnership with garden. learn as we go as we did on the front end as and Bolin.

www.WMGAZETTE.com 5.27.2021 • 19 OPINION THE WILTON MANORS GAZETTE

May 27, 2021 • Volume 8 • Issue 11 WTF 2520 N. Dixie Highway • Wilton Manors, FL 33305 Marc Martorana’s outlandish claims on vacation rentals are absurd and laughable Phone: 954-530-4970 Fax: 954-530-7943 Publisher • Norm Kent By Sal Torre [email protected] Associate publisher / Executive Editor • Jason Parsley [email protected] A recent Letter to the Editor titled, “Stop Attacking Tourism Here in Wilton Manors,” by Webmaster • Kimberly Swan [email protected] local resident Marc Martorana has left me a bit perturbed and in need to respond. Editorial Let me first say that I have always welcomed Art Director • Brendon Lies differences of opinion, encouraged dialogue [email protected] between members of our community and Oakland Park Editor • Christiana Lilly always open to listen and learn. Wilton Manors Editor • John McDonald If we all had the same opinions and beliefs, Correspondents life would be pretty boring here in our Island Christiana Lilly• Sal Torre • James Oaksun City. However, my patience for misinformation, Staff Photographers condescending attitudes, and adult hissy fits J.R. Davis • Carina Mask • Steven Shires has run a bit thin over the past few years. Photo via Pixabay. Marc’s main accusation is that those who Sales & Marketing oppose short-term rentals in residential all the other profit making business owners for and to deal with such issues all hours of the day For ad placement in the Wilton Manors Gazette, neighborhoods are anti-tourism and anti- paying their fair share of taxes in our society. and night, one begins to understand the gravity contact 954-530-4970 LGBT. Typical of the privileged few, amongst us less of the situation. I am a gay man, living in a predominately fortunate ones, to feel a sense of superiority The second part of Marc’s letter was an Sales Manager • Justin Wyse gay neighborhood, in a predominately gay and high-mindedness on what they contribute attack on both Commissioners Paul Rolli and [email protected] city. Most of my friends, acquaintances, and to society. Gary Resnick – well the main take on this is Advertising Sales Associate • Edwin Neimann neighbors also identify as LGBT. Most, if Sorry to burst your bubble Marc, but many that Commissioner Chris Caputo better start [email protected] not all, are opposed to operating businesses choose different ways to contribute to the watching his back. such as short-term rentals in our residential betterment of our community than just turning Marc heavily supported the election of Accounting Services by CG Bookkeeping neighborhoods. How can all these LGBT a profit on their investment properties. But Resnick when he ran for mayor in 2016. In people be anti-LGBT? Marc’s comments heck, you’re making money and life is good, so 2018, Marc heavily supported Rolli for election South Florida Gay News is published weekly. The opinions stop all the complaining. as City Commissioner. Then in 2020 it was expressed in columns, stories, and letters to the editor do not lack any awareness of all those who have a represent the opinions of SFGN, or the Publisher. You should difference of opinion other than his own. Recent City Commission discussions Caputo’s turn. not presume the sexual orientation of individuals based on their acknowledged the high cost Fundraisers, financial support, campaign names or pictorial representations. FurthermoreMEMBER the word “gay” in Now on to the anti-tourism SFGN should be interpreted to be inclusive of the entire LGBT claim. and budgetary demands assistance and much more, Marc was right community. All of the material/columns that appears in print Many in our community that short-term rentals pose there. Along the way Commissioners Rolli and online, including articles used in conjunction with the AP, is Typical of the protected under federal copyright and intellectual property laws, including myself have voiced for our city. The cost of and Resnick stopped marching in step to the and is jealously guarded by the newspaper. Nothing published additional code enforcement, same tune Marc was listening to and now may be reprinted in whole or part withoutMEMBER getting written consent strong support and worked privileged few, from the Publisher, at his law office, at [email protected]. very hard over the years for attorney fees, research, city both are vilified and attacked regularly by Mr. SFGN, as a private corporation, reserves the right to enforce amongst us less staff hours, inspections,Martorana. its own standards regarding the suitability of advertising copy, our Arts & Entertainment illustrations and photographs. District; voiced support for magistrate hearings, and police If history is any indication, and if I were Mr. fortunate ones, department use up limited Caputo, I would be concerned when might the a hotel; special designated AssociatedMEMBER Press districts for Bed & Breakfast to feel a sense of resources and all add up to tables turn on me next. Not to worry, your day establishments; and so many a substantial drain our city’s will come. There seems to be a pretty consistent other pro-tourism initiatives superiority and budget. track record here on how Marc treats those he here in our Island City. high-mindedness Perhaps Marc’s higher taxes supports and calls friends. Many of these same people are not covering the true cost Looking to end on a higher happier note, MEMBER Copyright © 2021 South Florida Gay News.com, Inc. are solidly opposed to vacation on what they of his business ventures here life here in our Island City seemed almost a home rentals in residential contribute to in our Island City, rather all city return to normalcy once again this past City neighborhoods. residents’ tax bills tell a much Commission meeting. Once again, the operation of society. more truthful story. Resident Paul Kuta was back in the short-term rental businesses in This week’s Public Commission chambers giving his public our residential neighborhoods Comments at our City comments at the lectern for the first time in has nothing to do with being anti-tourism or Commission meeting were dominated by the over a year. We thank the City Commission, we anti-LGBT — it has to do with preserving the unsettling tales of the problems and concerns thank Paul Kuta and we thank all residents for nature of our residential neighborhoods. that short-term vacation rentals have on our participating here in our Island City. Now on to the next bizarre statement in daily lives and quality of life in our residential This wondrous community we call Wilton Marc’s claims, that short-term rentals are neighborhoods. Add to those complaints the Manors is what makes life just better here… subsidizing the lower taxes that I and others demands placed on city resources to respond are benefiting from. As with other individuals who contribute to The Gazette or SFGN, the views and opinions of columnists are Wow, where does one start with this one… exclusively their own, for purposes of discussion, debate and dissent, and do not in any way represent the opinions A brown anole. Well I guess I should be grateful to Marc and of The Gazette or South Florida Gay News, its staff or management. Photo via Pixabay. www.WMGAZETTE.com

20 • 5.27.2021 2 • MAY 27, 2021 WILTON MANORS OPINION Rep. DuBose Brushes Aside Calls For Resignation By John McDonald

Representative Bobby DuBose is staying in at the same time. However, the resignation is individuals that will represent … say District his lane. not imminent. 94,” DuBose said. Florida’s House Democratic Minority “We resign effective January 11,” DuBose The death of longtime Congressman Alcee Leader brushed aside calls for his resignation. said. “If I resign prematurely it leaves the Hastings caused a cascade of intentions in “There’s more to it,” DuBose told SFGN in district without representation. So there’s CD-20. DuBose, Senator Perry Thurston, a telephone call from Tallahassee last week. still work to be done. For example we’re Representative Omari Hardy and Broward “I guess the political theater sounds good just finishing up a special session. If I resign County Commissioners Dale Holness and but technically there’s a structure of how this prematurely there will be no one there. There Barbara Sharief are all in the running for the whole thing is set up.” are still constituent services to do. They’ll Democratic nomination. DeSantis has set the DuBose (D-Fort Lauderdale) has announced still be committee weeks before the date special primary election for Nov. 2 with the plans to campaign for the open seat in U.S. is set. There’ll be deadlines to get bills in, general election scheduled for Jan. 11. Congressional District 20. That decision has appropriations and stuff like that we still have Manley said DeSantis is moving slowly those seeking to follow his trail to Tallahassee to represent.” leaving parts of Broward and Palm Beach asking for DuBose to resign as District 94 DuBose said a special election does not Counties without representation in Representative. guarantee representation, noting the case of Washington, D.C. for nine months. He “Due to Florida’s resign to run laws, all House District 97 when Jared Moskowitz was wanted DuBose’s resignation effective at the elected officials who will be running for tapped by Governor Ron DeSantis to direct conclusion of this month’s special session, the vacant congressional seat must submit the Division of Emergency Management. effective May 21. irrevocable resignations at the time of Moskowitz’s successor, Representative Dan DuBose, who defeated Manley in the 2020 qualifying,” reads a letter penned by Oakland Daley was not seated by the Speaker of the Democratic primary, said he intends to fulfill Rep. Bobby DuBose. Photo via Facebook. Park Vice Mayor Michael Carn, Elijah Manley House until after the 2019 session. his state duties, applying the same procedure and Roderick Kemp, three candidates vying “Once the election is held then it will that he did when he left the Fort Lauderdale for the house seat. The letter was circulated shift from the governor to the Speaker of Commission for Tallahassee in 2014. signed up for,” DuBose said. “Whether or not widely on social media Wednesday. the House as well as the senate president on “I plan to give the district as much there’s someone seated in the session it’s not DuBose said his resignation is a mere these special elections and it’s within their representation as I can because when I ran necessarily in my power, that will be up to the formality because no one can hold two offices discretion whether they’re going to seat the for office initially in this cycle that’s what I Speaker of the House.”

OAKLAND PARK NEWS Human Remains Found In Oakland Park By Christiana Lilly

Human remains were found in Oakland Park, and the Broward Sheriff’s Office and the Federal Bureau of Investigation are hoping the public can help identify the body. In a release sent out by BSO May 19, the remains were found in the 4200 block of North Dixie Highway. “Investigators believe the person’s death and burial took place sometime between 2014 and 2015. At that time, the area was undeveloped land,” according to the release. The remains are being examined and an Photo via BrowardCrimeStoppers.org. autopsy is being performed with hopes of identifying the body as well as the manner of a backhoe along the canal. Cheers were heard death. when articles of clothing were found. According to NBC6, the search began last This story will be updated as details are week and reporters saw law enforcement use released.

Anyone with information should contact BSO Homicide Detective Andrew Gianino at 954-321-4376. To remain anonymous, contact Broward County Crime Stoppers at 954-493-TIPS (8477) or browardcrimestoppers.org.

3 • MAY 27, 2021 5.27.2021 • 21 OAKLAND PARK NEWS WILTON MANORS LETTER TO THE EDITOR Oakland Park Wilton Manors is Taking Action Commissioners Discuss Against Problematic Vacation Rentals

Alcee Hastings Avenue Proposal As an LGBT tourism destination that lacks Photo via PxHere. sufficient hotel beds to serve the number of By Christiana Lilly tourists we welcome, properly run vacation rentals play a critical role in supporting our local business community and the residents The Oakland Park City Commission they employ. discussed a proposal to rename part of 21st On the other hand, mismanaged and Avenue to Alcee Hastings Avenue in honor of improperly run vacation rentals have no the late Congressman Alcee Hastings. business being in our city. They are on notice; The idea was proposed by Vice Mayor they are not welcome here! Michael Carn, who is also running for As a commissioner, I have worked a position in the Florida House. He aggressively to increase enforcement on recommended renaming the stretch of street problem vacation rentals. I have made this from Prospect Road to Northwest 26th Street, a regular agenda item, under new business, then asking Fort Lauderdale to get on board since February (https://bit.ly/3wF0wY7) when to continue the name north to Commercial I demanded a plan from our city staff on how Boulevard and south to Sunrise Boulevard. they would identify unregistered vacation Commissioners Aisha Gordon and Mitch rentals and address them. Rosenwald were both in favor of the renaming. Those who regularly attend our commission This is not an exhaustive list of all that we “As a representative, he had an meetings will recall that I petitioned my have done, and I certainly remain open to any extraordinary career,” Rosenwald said during The late Congressman Alcee Hastings. Photo public domain. fellow commissioners to change our code to additional measures we can legally take as a the discussion. require all short-term rentals be registered city to address problem vacation rentals. As Hastings served in the Florida House of with the city, and not just those that are not a commission, we have asked our city staff Representatives from 1993 until his death until after the fact that such a settlement was homesteaded. and city attorney to evaluate our short-term from pancreatic cancer on April 6, 2021. He made,” he said in a statement. “I am outraged At our most recent commission meeting, rental ordinances and ensure we are doing first represented the 23th District, then the that any taxpayer dollars were needlessly paid I requested that vacation rentals be made absolutely everything we legally can. 20th District. He also served as a judge of the to Ms. Packer.” a recurring part of our reports from the While there were a number of suggestions 17th Judicial Court of Florida from 1977 to Commissioners said they did receive emails city manager and/or police department recently from residents on how we might 1979, then was nominated by former President from residents who were not in favor of the during each commission meeting so we approach this problem, our city attorney Jimmy Carter in 1979 as a judge of the U.S. resolution. can understand the progress being made to reminded us that a number of them would District Court for the Southern District of “Everybody has a past,” Carn said. “You go address the problem vacation rentals that still potentially be against Florida law and result Florida. That nomination made him the first through the courts and you have your day exist in our city. in our city being sued. Miami-Beach recently Black federal judge in Florida. in court to get done what you get done, but Here’s a few of the actions we’ve taken lost a very expensive lawsuit for trying to As a judge and a representative, he stood by society is a society of redemption.” recently: implement fines and regulations that were not the LGBT community, voting to prohibit job Gordon agreed, saying his good deeds as a allowable within Florida state laws. discrimination based on sexual orientation, judge and congressmen outweighed possible • Our police department has been trained on I want to reiterate that I do support properly voting against banning gay adoption, and impropriety. new procedures for handling code complaints run vacation rentals. I have publicly disclosed voting against defining marriage as only Mayor Jane Bolin and Commissioner like noise, too many cars, etc. The new that I manage a short-term rental. It is for between a man and a woman, among others. Matthew Sparks said that while they admire procedures ensure that owners of short-term that reason that I proactively reviewed my In fact, he issued a congressional proclamation the legacy that Hastings left behind, they rentals will receive a notice of violation, and, public statements and votes with the Florida celebrating the first issue of SFGN. wondered if it was appropriate to rename a with the magistrate’s support, the maximum fine Commission of Ethics to ensure I was acting “When HIV patients needed an advocate, street in Oakland Park after him since he was allowable by Florida law. These fines quickly ethically in my duties as a City Commissioner. or AIDS agencies needed a voice, he would be not local. escalate for repeat offenders. I believe in transparency in governance, and there, as the man who could stand up and be “I guess what I want us all to be thinking therefore, I will continue to seek their opinion heard, fearless in his advocacy, demanding the about is when we think about renaming in • Our code compliance department is nearly anytime I have input (positive or negative) government do more than the government Oakland Park, one of the things that came complete with the review I requested at the about short-term rentals. had done,” SFGN publisher Norm Kent wrote to me was we do that for residents — people February 23 commission meeting, resulting If you are experiencing a problem with a in a tribute to Hastings. who came from Oakland Park,” Bolin said. “I in many unregistered vacation rentals being vacation rental in your neighborhood, you However, his career did not come without know he’s done a lot and brought a lot to our identified and brought into compliance. Some can contact the police department or code controversy. In 2009, he was accused of community and that isn’t to be ignored.” of these unregistered short-term rentals have compliance for immediate action. A small spending more than $24,000 in taxpayer Because of the late hour, the commission already had to appear in front of the special number of problem vacation rentals exist money to lease a Lexus, although the decided to table the discussion and continue magistrate. and I am confident we can work together as a expenditure was found to be legal. He was it at a future meeting. City Manager David city to ensure they come into compliance and also accused of sexual harassment in 2011 by Hebert said he would investigate the cost of • We have hired a new code compliance change ownership for the better. As always, a Winsome Packer, a former staff member, renaming a street, but he didn’t think it would supervisor and part time code officer. Our you can email me your thoughts at ccaputo@ a claim he vehemently denied. In 2017, be high. code compliance team has been woefully wiltonmanors.com.. the federal government paid a $220,000 Rosenwald’s proposal for an affordable understaffed, and this additional staff will settlement, a move that Hastings disapproved housing/workforce housing plan was also hopefully provide our residents with much of. moved to another meeting for a longer — Chris Caputo needed relief. WILTON MANORS CITY COMMISSIONER “At no time was I consulted, nor did I know discussion.

www.WMGAZETTE.com

22 • 5.27.2021 4 • MAY 27, 2021 WILTON MANORS NEWS Wilton Manors to Identify, Regulate Vacation Rentals in the City

By John McDonald

The slow march to reign in vacation rentals the state constitution. has begun. Police Chief Gary Blocker said 13 Long a thorny issue for public officials to applications are in the department’s queue, navigate, Wilton Manors has taken steps to which increases compliance to 43%. identify vacation rentals operating in the The big knock-on vacation rentals are the city. At the May 11 commission meeting, Kim impact on quality of life for full-time residents. Holinko, acting code compliance supervisor, Commissioner Chris Caputo said it’s a few gave a presentation on the department’s bad apples spoiling the party. To mitigate regulatory efforts. those bad apples, Blocker proposed training Holinko said the city’s software program on noise ordinances and parking regulations examined 359 properties, and of those with proper routing of road reports from numbers, 152 properties were not operating as officers in the field. a vacation rental. Holinko said 207 properties Blocker said complaints are often required further research while 76 properties anonymous and it is important for those were licensed with the city and 43 properties negatively impacted to give their contact were registered as long-term rentals. information to officers for a follow-up Four properties were multi- investigation. family/business dwellings. “It’s beneficial to our On May 5, three properties investigation if they ask for were cited by a special “I think a lot the officers to contact them magistrate for not registering so we can interview them and as vacation rentals. Holinko of people don’t see how these VHR operations said 75 properties remain at these homes are negatively under investigation and understand impacting their quality of notices have been sent to the what you can life and a lot of times their owners. Owners have 30 days testimony is key to fulfilling to comply or contest once put or cannot do the elements of an ordinance on notice by the city. violation,” Blocker said. If the owners live at the when you Blocker said anonymous Photo via Pixabay. vacation rental property, no reports can spur action on registration with the city is homestead capacity limits and parking properties with half involving a disturbance. represents District 94 in Tallahassee, which required. That was found in six violations, but if it’s a matter That’s roughly 13 noise complaints per month. includes the westside of Wilton Manors. instances, said Holinko. your home.” of a loud party, then witnesses The Gazette reached out for data from “Fort Lauderdale is the Venice of America so Holinko said 21 properties must give their name to code Airbnb, one of the travel industry’s leading the marine industry has short-term rentals. have been licensed as vacation - Scott Newton compliance officers. vacation rentals companies, for more It’s one of those things, I come from the local rentals bringing the city’s Mayor of Wilton Manors Peter Nasca is one resident information. Samuel Randall, public affairs government, I believe in home rule but I’m total to 97, a 28% increase in who has consistently spokesman for Airbnb, referenced the not going to say, hey it’s all or nothing because compliance since outreach complained about vacation company’s guidelines for hosting but declined when I come up here in session sometimes the efforts began. rentals in his neighborhood. Nasca has to share data on the number of Airbnb hosts places I can find are short-term rentals.” Holinko described her efforts as very labor said the issue could potentially turn Wilton in Wilton Manors. Bills in both the House and Senate to give intensive as the department is short two Manors into an “upscale flop house” and Wilton Manors resident Marc Martorana the state greater control over vacation rentals employees. proposes limiting stays for vacation rentals. warned cracking down on vacation rentals died in committees this past session. The bills Mayor Scott Newton advocated bringing “My wife, son and I have lived in Wilton would have negative revenue consequences were largely seen as preemptions of local in a representative from Broward County Manors for almost 13 years,” Nasca wrote in a for the city. authority. Property Appraiser Marty Kiar’s office to shed letter to the Gazette. “We love it here but this “If these tourism rentals chose to leave our “I understand the desire for them, but light on the topic, particularly when it comes vacation [party] rental issue is out of control. city, taxes for year-round homeowners would we have to make sure we keep all the to homesteaded properties. I realize that the city has limited control over skyrocket and be unaffordable for many of stakeholders at the table, hopefully moving “I think a lot of people don’t understand the issue but something needs to be done. We our residents,” Martorana said. forward it can pick up where they left off and what you can or cannot do when you don’t oppose vacation rentals, but they need Florida Representative Bobby DuBose has really get something across the finish line,” homestead your home,” Newton said. to have a minimum stay requirement like in seen the vacation rentals controversy play out DuBose said. “I get it people arguing about the Commissioner Gary Resnick suggested the the Keys.” before. quality of life. I’m a home rule guy. It’s not an city send its vacation rentals list to Kiar’s office Blocker said since January 2020, police “It was an issue when I was on the Fort easy thing. Next session, the issue will still be to continue the investigation as required by received 157 calls for service at vacation home Lauderdale Commission,” said DuBose, who here.” www.WMGAZETTE.com

5 • MAY 27, 2021 5.27.2021 • 23 WILTON MANORS LETTER TO THE EDITOR We Love Candy Hearts and Orange Slices The Progress of Public Art in Wilton Manors

In your May 13 edition of the Gazette, you As a member of the Wilton Manors gave a platform to a malcontent named Thomas Community Affairs Advisory Board, I raised Paul Severino, a self-proclaimed author, who the concept of Sculpture Walk to that Board, proceeded to express his disagreement with the and the Board funded the project with an initial existing public art efforts being made in Wilton $1,000 contribution which helped to launch Manors in his article “Candy Hearts, Orange the program sponsored by Art Walk Wilton Slices, and a Rainbow Bridge.” Manors. By further raising funds through citizen I must say that Mr. Severino shows skills in donations and working with business owners writing fiction, but no skills in public art, and who gave consent to displaying a sculpture on it is incumbent upon me to correct the record. their property, we were able to by-pass the City’s Rather than express his support for the new complacency with the status quo and move public art efforts, he chose to cast aspersions, quickly to install eight sculptures, despite a making light of a few sculptures such as “Slices pandemic, in location along Wilton Drive. of Heaven” and “Sweet Hearts” placed on Wilton The first two sculptures, “Talking Tubes” and Drive as well as others such as the painting of the “Slices of Heaven,” installed in March of 2020, Rainbow Bridge. served as our proof of concept, and following Those like Mr. Severino have posed one of their installation, we received an overwhelming the biggest obstacles to progress here in Wilton amount of support and praise. This project Manors, by setting lofty goals that are too high also fits perfectly within the goals of the Wilton and unattainable with no practical, realistic Manors Business Association which has held solutions. workshops on how to generate For decades, there has been more consumer traffic to “talk” of public art in Wilton support our businesses. Manors, but no action to For decades, What Mr. Severino also fails “Slices Of Heaven” by Craig Berube-Gray. Photo via Sculpture Walk Wilton Manors, Facebook. back it up. The City of Wilton to comprehend is the model we Manors itself had not made there has are using to achieve this success. Under this model, the choices are not as permit sculptures to be placed on City-owned any concerted efforts towards Based upon a template used expansive as we would like, since we need to properties such as City Hall and the parks. This placing public art around the been “talk” in several cities, a non-profit find artists who create public art sculptures, are is a major breakthrough and a next step towards City. Rather, it has been left to undertakes a “lease, loan or willing to lease their art for one-year terms and further progress. private 501(c)(3)’s to promulgate of public art in donate” plan for acquiring the assume liability for the art. Ultimately, I agree that the City of Wilton projects within the City. Wilton Manors, art. Thus, rather than having While we have endeavored to find local Manors needs to take on a public art program. An example would be the to raise a massive amount of artists, this has been a challenge and we are Mr. Severino may also not be aware that I Wilton Art projects such as “Art but no action to funds for any one piece (such as always welcoming of these artists. If Mr. submitted a comprehensive Public Art Policy in the Air” and “Art Sign.” Other the “Charging Bull” which Mr. Severino is aware of any, we would love to get to the City Commission to act upon, that would examples would be the murals back it up. Severino so adores at the New that information. I doubt he does. We have recognize a public art committee and seek to done by Claudia Castillo and the York Stock Exchange), which been combing the country looking for artists fund public art of all kinds. folks at Island City Art Advisory. could cost tens of thousands interested in our model and so far, have been Just recently, and most likely largely as a To my amazement, as with many, for a City with of dollars, we are able to lease sculptures for a successful in finding several who have given result of the popularity of the public art projects such an abundance of creative residents, the nominal amount for one-year terms. Such a plan us wonderful sculptures that the residents of recently launched, the City Commission, with dearth of public art is shocking and is something makes a Sculpture Walk much more affordable Wilton Manors have loved and embraced. the support of Commissioner Caputo, is taking that needed to be corrected. and much easier by which to raised funds for As to the meaning behind each piece or the steps to engage itself more in this realm. Many of our neighboring cities have made so multiple pieces. As such, with a budget of only suitability of the piece for Wilton Manors, that is However, until such time as the City buys into much more progress