V10iss48

local name global coverage november 27, 2019 vol. 10 // issue 48

25 years

later Pedro Zamora remembered on World Aids Day Spirit Section Page 22

SouthFloridaGayNews

@SFGN

SFGN.com

NEWS highlight

SouthFloridaGayNews.com

Bear Drive Collects Toys for Children at Hunters L

Associate Publisher / Executive Editor • Jason Parsley Jason.Parsley@sfgn.com

Correspondents

Dori Zinn • Donald Cavanaugh • Christiana Lilly • Denise Royal • David-Elijah Nahmod

Contributing Columnists

Dana Rudolph • Ric Reily • Terri Schlichenmeyer

Associate Photographers Carina Mask • Steven Shires

Sales & Marketing

For ad placement in SFGN, contact 954-530-4970 Sales Manager • Justin Wyse Justin@sfgn.com Senior Advertising Associate • Edwin Neimann Edwin@sfgn.com Senior Advertising Associate • Clark Rogers Clark@sfgn.com

Arthur Wood III, Associate Editor at OutClique, donating to the Bear Drive. Photo courtesy of Denise Royal.

teddy bear or a $5 donation will receive a complimentary Blue Ice Vodka cocktail or a beer!

“The Bears of South Florida really enjoy and take pride in our involvement with the bear drive each year,” said Kevin Daft, President of BOSF. “When we combine the bears collected at our annual holiday dinner the with all the bears the Gay Men’s Chorus of South Florida collects, the numbers are

truly impressive. It’s always heartwarming to deliver hundreds of bears to the hospital and see the appreciation on the staff’s faces. They know firsthand the joy these bears bring to sick and injured children throughout the year.”

GMCSF has two upcoming holiday events—Holidays at Sunshine Cathedral on Dec. 14 and Holidays at Hard Rock Live with Jordin Sparks on Dec. 15.

Distribution Services • Rocky Bowell Sales Consultant • Charles A. Reid National Advertising Rivendell Media 212-242-6863 sales@rivendellmedia.com Accounting Services by CG Bookkeeping Printing by Sun Coast Press

SFGN Winner of & 5 Florida Press Club Awards And runner-up for

Cover: Pedro Zamora. Photo via Judd Winick (@JuddWinick), Twitter.

Associated Press 1 1 .27.2019

piero@sfgn.com

Jesse Monteagudo

Visit www.gmcsf.org to buy tickets and get additional information.

•

Norm.Kent@sfgn.com

CEO • Pier Angelo Guidugli

Senior Features Correspondents

GMCSF Executive Director

2

Publisher • Norm Kent

Editorial

ooking to spread some holiday cheer this season?

Consider donating teddy bears to the 10th annual toy drive organized by the Gay Men’s Chorus of South Florida (GMCSF) and the Bears of South Florida (BOSF). This year’s event happens on Friday, Nov. 29 from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. at Hunters Nightclub in Wilton Manors.

Each year, GMCSF joins forces with the Bears of South Florida to collect thousands of stuffed bears to be delivered to the children in the Broward Health System.

“What makes the annual bear drive so powerful is that it is a true collaboration by the Gay Men’s Chorus of South Florida, the Bears of South Florida, Hunters Nightclub and Broward Health,” said GMCSF Executive Director Mark Kent. “It is a great example of how we can all work together to do something really meaningful. And the public brings their energy and their generosity to the mix, putting this effort over the top!”

Anyone who contributes either a stuffed

- Mark Kent

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

Art Director • Brendon Lies Artwork@sfgn.com Digital Content Director • Justin Musial Webmaster@sfgn.com Graphic Designer • Char Pratt Arts/Entertainment Editor • JW Arnold JW@prdconline.com Social Media Manager • Tucker Berardi tberardi@ufl.edu Food/Travel Editor • Rick Karlin Gazette News Editor • Sallie James HIV Editor • Sean McShee Senior Photographer • J.R. Davis JRDavis12000@hotmail.com

Denise Royal

“It is a great example of how we can all work together to do something really meaningful.”

@SFGN

November 27, 2019 • Volume 10 • Issue 48

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

Copyright © 2019 South Florida Gay News.com, Inc.

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11.27.2019 •

3

NEWS local

14th Annual Judy Shepherd Toy Drive Underway

The Hurricane Showdown Softball Tournament. Photo credit: Brick Channing, via Justin Musial.

Denise Royal

I

t’s Toy Drive Time!

The Pride Center is collecting new and unwrapped children’s toys as part of the annual Judy Shepherd Toy Drive. Organizers need toys with a minimum value of $10.

“We are looking for toys that cost $10 and up,” said organizer Jeannette Cohen. “So, nothing from a dollar store. We’re looking to collect a toy or gift card — something that the kids might enjoy.”

The recipients are students at Thurgood Marshall Elementary School in Lauderhill.

It’s a Title I school, meaning that the majority of its students receive free or reduced-price lunches.

The toy drive is named for Judy Shepherd, who was incredibly active at the Pride Center and initiated the initial toy drive. She passed away a few years ago.

Gay Softball Tournament Celebrates 25 Years Hurricane Showdown returns this weekend

Justin Musial

Photo via PxHere.

If you’re interested in participating, you can drop your donation off at the Pride Center. It’s located at 2040 N Dixie Hwy, Wilton Manors. Donations are collected through Dec. 17.

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his Thanksgiving marks the 25th Association) is bringing an all new focus anniversary of the Hurricane on the player experience. All brackets, and Showdown Gay Softball Tournament. schedules will be digital.”

The annual double elimination gay The app that the Hurricane Showdown softball tournament brings together teams will be using is called Tourney Machine. from the U.S. and Canada with After you download it, just the goal of promoting diversity, search November softball “It’s nice to inclusion, and fun. events in Florida, and click on This year more than 60 teams the Hurricane Showdown. You come together from Nashville, Tennessee can follow all of your favorite as a team, and (Force), to Toronto, Ontario teams.

(Leslieville Royals). That also Paulo Gerard who is playing traveling away includes local leagues like Fort on Tailgaters from Orlando from your home is coming down here to see Lauderdale (SFAAA), Tampa city to have (SSL), and Orlando (CFSL). friends, have fun, and to meet This year’s tournament new people. some fun, can director Jon Anderson said, “It’s nice to come together as help do that.” “this is an exciting year. For the a team, and traveling away from first time ever SFAAA (South your home city to have some - Paulo Gerard Florida Amateur Athletic fun, can help do that,” Gerard Tailgaters, Orlando said.

This year’s event starts on Wednesday with a Pub Crawl in Wilton Manors. Actual play starts Friday, with the championship games taking place Sunday Dec. 1.

“I am excited to see this years event,” said Donald DeSormoux, membership coordinator for SFAAA and the tournament.

“It is nice to see everyone meeting new people from around North America, making friends, and seeing our community come together and embrace healthy competition.”

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5

FEATURE local

NOSTALGIC ERS K C STI BUMPER BACK IN FAVOR

to get involved le op pe e or m ts an w r Hollywood teache by purchasing his ns ig pa m ca l ca ti li po ’s in next year mper stickers invention: magnetic bu

Pictured below: Gary McCarthy.

Photo courtesy of Gary McCarthy.

AND ER STICK Y

NO LONG

Martin Gould

S

ometime after the highly contentious 2000 Presidential election, made so famous by Floridians and hanging chads, Gary McCarthy pulled up behind a car and saw an “Al Gore for President” bumper sticker. McCarthy’s first thought? “The election’s over! That guy should change his bumper sticker!”

Political bumper stickers have always McCarthy’s newfangled magnetic bumper had an unofficial expiration date of sorts. sticker is made from metal with a plastic Voters who picked the winning candidate case. often kept their stickers in full display to Customers print or purchase an insert that show they picked a winner. Some of course fits into the case and the message or image attempted the impossible task of scraping off can be changed, replacing whatever message the old sticker. was in there before.

As McCarthy was studying that “With social media, people expired Gore sticker, he came love to create their own up with an idea: make a sticker content and make posts “You can that could be easily removed regularly. This can display change and changed with a new a more specific message. message.

You can control your own e g a your im “I sat on the idea for 20 narrative whenever you r u o y years. I made a prototype…and change the sticker.” d n a it bombed!” But that did not But McCarthy is doing message. It’s deter McCarthy. He continued more than just becoming to ponder his challenge. “A lot another entrepreneurial like a status of people want to put stickers on startup. He thinks of his update for their cars but don’t want to make invention in much broader a commitment like that to just terms. .” r a c your one message.”

“I want to use my rthy a cC M That’s when the idea came to invention to serve a ry a G Hollywood him: a magnetic bumper sticker. greater good. I first “It serves such a great purpose. thought of this idea You can change your image and looking at a Presidential campaign your message. It’s like a status update for sticker, so, it’s fitting that I allow for its first your car. You can have as many messages usage to be one that promotes education, as you want.” He calls the new product artistic creativity, freedom of speech, and “Bmprgrm” (pronounced “Bumpergram” voting.” minus the vowels).

McCarthy set up a Kickstarter campaign

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1 1 .27.2019

online and received more than $5,000 in contributions in just over a month from nearly 100 people, about 40 percent of the total amount of money he needs to launch.

And, he’s already taking the first steps towards a larger expansion of Bmprgrm: “I met someone at Amazon called the ‘Treasure Truck.’”

Like a pop-up store within Amazon.

“They’re trying to get some eyeballs and energy on it.”

As a teacher for more than 10 years, McCarthy is finding other ways to market his

magnets, like fundraising for school clubs and student activities.

He also thinks “Bmprgrm” can be translated to different types of industries.

The magnetic stickers are priced at $10 but McCarthy thinks they can be manufactured at a much lower cost.

“Magnetic stickers with a cute logo on it on a college campus normally go for $5.”

Given the 2020 campaign is right around the corner, it appears the timing for Gary McCarthy’s new invention couldn’t be better.

MORE INFORMATION:

Online: www.bmprgrm.com Email: gary@bmprgrm.com Phone: 954-369-0578 Kickstarter program: wevotebecause.com

NEWS white house watch

Bloomberg Makes Late Entry Mayor Pete & Tulsi Tangle at Dems Debate

John McDonald

F

ormer New York City Mayor Michael R. Bloomberg entered the U.S. Presidential campaign on Friday, sending waves through a crowded political marketplace.

“I am running for president to defeat Donald Trump and rebuild America,” Bloomberg tweeted on Nov. 24. “I believe my unique set of experiences in business, government and philanthropy will enable me to win and lead.”

Bloomberg, 77, won the New York Mayor’s campaign in 2002, following Rudy Giuliani into office to lead a city devastated by the terrorist attacks on Sept. 11, 2001. He is cofounder of Bloomberg, L.P., a company with its own Manhattan tower specializing in finance, data, software and media.

Bloomberg is an uber wealthy global citizen with a net worth of more than $55 billion. That wealth has already come under attack by one of the leading contenders for the Democratic party nomination.

“I’m disgusted by the idea that Michael Bloomberg or any billionaire thinks they can circumvent the political process and spend tens of millions of dollars to buy elections,” tweeted U.S. Senator Bernie Sanders of Vermont on Nov. 22. “If you can’t build grassroots support for your candidacy, you have no business running for president.”

Sanders, U.S. Sens. Elizabeth Warren of Massachusetts, Kamala Harris of California and Amy Klobuchar of Minnesota, South Bend, Indiana Mayor Pete Buttigieg and former Vice President Joe Biden have qualified for the party’s next round of debates, Dec. 19, in Los Angeles.

Meanwhile, Miramar, Florida Mayor Wayne Messam suspended his campaign last week, but vowed to “be a factor to mobilize our state for the Democratic Party nominee.”

Messam’s exit from the stage leaves 17 major Democrats competing for the nomination.

At last week’s debates in Atlanta, Buttigieg and U.S. Representative Tulsi Gabbard of Hawaii had a tense exchange over national security and foreign policy. Gabbard accused Buttigieg of making a “careless statement” in regards to sending American troops to Mexico to fight drug cartels.

Buttigieg, the 37-year-old gay married Afghanistan war veteran, countered that Gabbard had poor judgment, citing her

Michael R. Bloomberg. Photo credit: Rubenstein, via Flickr.

meeting with Syrian President Bashar alAssad.

“I have, in my experience, such as it is -- whether you think it counts or not since it wasn’t accumulated in Washington -enough judgment that I would have not sat down with a murderous dictator like that,” Buttigieg said.

Buttigieg said his remarks about Mexico pertained to alliance building and security cooperation.

LGBT Notes: WHW interviewed in-coming SAVE Dade Executive Director Orlando Gonzales after the Miami Beach elections. Gonzales said his LGBT service organization was “very excited” with last week’s results. He noted Miami Beach now has two openly gay commissioners: (Michael Góngora and David Richardson) on the city’s dais. Gonzales went on to say Miami Beach has high scores on the Human Rights Campaign Equality Index. SAVE, Gonzales said, has a large swath of volunteers it calls upon for field work and door knocking during campaigns. Gonzales relocated from Washington, D.C. this year to replace Tony Lima as Executive Director at SAVE (Safeguarding American Values for Everyone), established in 1993.

Gonzales said SAVE has not endorsed a presidential candidate.

White House Watch is a weekly column taking a look at the state of the 2020 presidential election.

11.27.2019 •

7

IMPORTANT FACTS FOR BIKTARVY®

This is only a brief summary of important information about BIKTARVY and does not replace talking to your healthcare provider about your condition and your treatment.

MOST IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT BIKTARVY BIKTARVY may cause serious side effects, including: } Worsening of Hepatitis B (HBV) infection. If you have both HIV-1 and HBV, your HBV may suddenly get worse if you stop taking BIKTARVY. Do not stop taking BIKTARVY without first talking to your healthcare provider, as they will need to check your health regularly for several months.

ABOUT BIKTARVY BIKTARVY is a complete, 1-pill, once-a-day prescription medicine used to treat HIV-1 in adults. It can either be used in people who have never taken HIV-1 medicines before, or people who are replacing their current HIV-1 medicines and whose healthcare provider determines they meet certain requirements.

BIKTARVY does not cure HIV-1 or AIDS. HIV-1 is the virus that causes AIDS. Do NOT take BIKTARVY if you also take a medicine that contains: } dofetilide } rifampin } any other medicines to treat HIV-1

BEFORE TAKING BIKTARVY Tell your healthcare provider if you: } Have or have had any kidney or liver problems, including hepatitis infection. } Have any other health problems. } Are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. It is not known if BIKTARVY can harm your unborn baby. Tell your healthcare provider if you become pregnant while taking BIKTARVY. } Are breastfeeding (nursing) or plan to breastfeed. Do not breastfeed. HIV-1 can be passed to the baby in breast milk.

Tell your healthcare provider about all the medicines you take: } Keep a list that includes all prescription and over-the-counter medicines, antacids, laxatives, vitamins, and herbal supplements, and show it to your healthcare provider and pharmacist. } BIKTARVY and other medicines may affect each other. Ask your healthcare provider and pharmacist about medicines that interact with BIKTARVY, and ask if it is safe to take BIKTARVY with all your other medicines.

Get HIV support by downloading a free app at

MyDailyCharge.com

8

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BVYC0103_BIKTARVY_B_10x10-75_SouthFloridaGayNews_KeepLoving_DR4_r1v1jl.indd All Pages 1 1 .27.2019

(bik-TAR-vee)

POSSIBLE SIDE EFFECTS OF BIKTARVY BIKTARVY may cause serious side effects, including: } Those in the “Most Important Information About BIKTARVY” section. } Changes in your immune system. Your immune system may get stronger and begin to fight infections. Tell your healthcare provider if you have any new symptoms after you start taking BIKTARVY. } Kidney problems, including kidney failure. Your healthcare provider should do blood and urine tests to check your kidneys. If you develop new or worse kidney problems, they may tell you to stop taking BIKTARVY. } Too much lactic acid in your blood (lactic acidosis), which is a serious but rare medical emergency that can lead to death. Tell your healthcare provider right away if you get these symptoms: weakness or being more tired than usual, unusual muscle pain, being short of breath or fast breathing, stomach pain with nausea and vomiting, cold or blue hands and feet, feel dizzy or lightheaded, or a fast or abnormal heartbeat. } Severe liver problems, which in rare cases can lead to death.

Tell your healthcare provider right away if you get these symptoms: skin or the white part of your eyes turns yellow, dark “tea-colored” urine, light-colored stools, loss of appetite for several days or longer, nausea, or stomach-area pain. } The most common side effects of BIKTARVY in clinical studies were diarrhea (6%), nausea (6%), and headache (5%).

These are not all the possible side effects of BIKTARVY. Tell your healthcare provider right away if you have any new symptoms while taking BIKTARVY. You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit www.FDA.gov/medwatch, or call 1-800-FDA-1088.

Your healthcare provider will need to do tests to monitor your health before and during treatment with BIKTARVY. HOW TO TAKE BIKTARVY Take BIKTARVY 1 time each day with or without food.

GET MORE INFORMATION } This is only a brief summary of important information about BIKTARVY. Talk to your healthcare provider or pharmacist to learn more. } Go to BIKTARVY.com or call 1-800-GILEAD-5. } If you need help paying for your medicine, visit BIKTARVY.com for program information.

BIKTARVY, the BIKTARVY Logo, DAILY CHARGE, the DAILY CHARGE Logo, KEEP LOVING, LOVE WHAT’S INSIDE, GILEAD, and the GILEAD Logo are trademarks of Gilead Sciences, Inc., or its related companies.

Version date: December 2018 © 2019 Gilead Sciences, Inc. All rights reserved. BVYC0103 02/19

KEEP LOVING.

Because HIV doesn’t change who you are.

BIKTARVY® is a complete, 1-pill, once-a-day prescription medicine used to treat HIV-1 in certain adults. BIKTARVY does not cure HIV-1 or AIDS.

Ask your healthcare provider if BIKTARVY is right for you. To learn more, visit BIKTARVY.com.

Please see Important Facts about BIKTARVY, including important warnings, on the previous page and visit BIKTARVY.com.

5/13/19 10:54 AM• 11.27.2019

9

Let’s Get Piggy

NEWS local

Pig Week Squeals its Way to Broward venues Psycho Circus Party Debuts Damon Scott

We’ll do our best to avoid the puns and double entendres from this point on.

Pig Week events begin across 18 different venues in Broward County Nov. 29 – at leatherthemed bed and breakfasts, guest houses, bars and clubs – most are located in Wilton Manors and Fort Lauderdale.

This is the sixth Pig Week, which was started by Chad Bush – the main thrust behind the week and also a longtime (12 years and running) bartender at Ramrod.

The venerable gay leather bar with different theme nights, DJs and parties serves as host to many of the week’s festivities.

“You’re looking at seven parties a day at major venues – everybody takes part,” he said.

Bush said almost 34,000 attended a Pig Week event in 2018.

New this year, is the Psycho Circus Party – “kind of cray, huge party,” Bush said. (The location had not yet been announced at press time).

After being “in this town for a long time” and going to bear parties and being involved in leather charities and leather events, Bush decided he’d “start [his] own deal.”

Ideas came easy as Ramrod had been

“The sexual revolution is back.

People are no longer afraid.”

- Chad Bush Organizer

10

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1 1.27.2019

hosting its Pig Dance around the time of the Thanksgiving holiday since time immemorial.

But Bush wanted to offer people options to extend the weekend into a week; to give gay men a week-long buffet of things to do.

“The weekend is always very, very big – so the thought process was: How do we get people to stay in Broward County?” he said.

And Bush wants gays to know that all men are pigs. This is an inclusive event.

“People say: ‘I’d love to come, but I don’t identify as a bear; I don’t identify as a leather guy,’” he said.

Bush said events are open to leather men, bears, jocks, twinks, regular Joes, bodybuilders and gay men of all varieties.

About 70 percent of registrations come from outside of Florida and 50 percent of those are from outside of the country, Bush said.

“It’s been an odyssey,” he said. “All the bars work together and everyone has been so great over the years.”

For Bush, there’s also a macroview of Pig Week that he stays connected with.

“For years and years, people stifled their sexuality,” he said. “And here we are in the age of PrEP and people are starting to free themselves and relax their brain about what turns them on and what makes them a pig.

The sexual revolution is back. People are no longer afraid. The mindset about how men think about their sexuality is not constrained by fear anymore – [Pig Week has] opened up a whole world for people.”

Pig Week runs through Dec. 8. The best way to stay connected with all the parties, options and pricing is at PigWeek.com.

Chad Bush (right) with Paul Sullivan promoting Pig Week in 2016. Photo via Facebook.

Leather Masked Ball It’s promoted as part of Pig Week festivities, but is an event that stands on its own, too.

The Leather Masked Ball is described by organizers as “South Florida’s premier annual charity dance party centered around the leather community.”

No convincing needed.

The Lambda Men’s Brotherhood is once again the host, in this, the 14th year.

DJ Herbie James will spin tunes and there will be bondage demonstrations by the South Florida Minotaurs.

Of course there will be leather men and exotic dancers everywhere you look.

Mr. Ramrod 2019 is expected to make an appearance as well.

If that’s not enough, you can feast your eyes on various jocks in athletic gear, doms in uniform and puppies and furries.

All the ticket proceeds benefit the group’s grant recipients – Tertium Quid, the Leather Archives and Museum and Gilda’s Club South Florida.

Since 2006, the event has raised more than $215,000 for nonprofits like Care Resource, Pridelines, the Pet Project for Pets, Tuesday’s Angels, the Stonewall National Museum & Archives, the Pride Center, Equality Florida and the OneOrlando Fund.

Tickets are $35 in advance or $40 at the door. The event will be held at Scandals, located at 3073 NE 6th Ave. in Wilton Manors.

Note:

Pig Week registration does not include a ticket to the Leather Masked Ball. Go to lmbftl.org for more information.

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NEWS local

We Want You

NEWS international

A Day in LGBT South Florida Submit your photos to us from Nov. 30

SFGN Staff

Photo via Adobe.

J

oin SFGN on Saturday, Nov 30 in capturing one day in the life of LGBT South Floridians.

We want to capture all of the diversity here in our local LGBT community.

We’re looking for normal LGBT folks doing everyday activities, whether it’s brushing your teeth, taking a jog in the park, walking your dogs, sun tanning on the beach or dancing the night away.

Submit your photos to Jason Parsley at Jason.

Parsley@sfgn.com with the subject “LGBT South Florida.” Please include the time, city, complete names, and a short description of what’s taking place.

We’re looking for local photographers to take part as well, so feel free to contact us.

Curious about what we’ve done in the past? Take a look at one of our past issues at issuu.com/sfgnissues/docs/v5i53

Photo via Adobe.

Latin American Human Rights Lawyers Join Forces for LGBT Rights Andrew Dier

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n a gathering in Bogota, Colombia on Organizers say that over the past five Nov. 19, 40 human rights lawyers from years, there have been at least 1,300 murders across Latin America launched an of LGBT persons in Latin America. That innovative “Red Litigio LGBT” – an LGBT translates to four each day.

Litigation Network – in order to guarantee This group of legal experts has an ambitious the rights of LGBT persons in agenda. They have identified 13 Latin American countries: the following goals for the Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, Chile, member countries: ensuring Organizers Colombia, Costa Rica, Ecuador, that LGBT relationships are say that over Honduras, Mexico, Panama, decriminalized, allowing for the past five Paraguay, Peru and Venezuela. public displays of affection Despite many legal victories, among same-sex couples, full years, there especially in terms of marriage and adoption rights, have been at recognition of same-sex couples gender identity protection laws least 1,300 rights such as in Argentina and and combatting impunity in in Colombia, much work is homicide cases. murders of needed throughout the Latin There are plans to expand LGBT persons American world. the scope to a further eight In Bolivia, Paraguay and Latin American countries in in Latin Venezuela there is little to no the near future.

America. recognition of LGBT rights with This initiative is the work governments advocating to of four organizations in restrict rights, while activists in countries the region: Colombia Diversa, Promsex, such as Brazil with LGBT rights on the books Cattrachas and Dejusticia and the initial fear a chipping away of rights and an increase meeting was supported by ARCUS, the on anti-LGBT violence under the presidency Ford Foundation and the Open Society anti-gay president Jair Bolsonaro.

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NEWS local

AHF Launches Media Campaign For Lauderdale Housing Project Distributes sfgn editorial in marketing initiative

SFGN Staff

T

he AIDS Healthcare Foundation has launched a media campaign to garner public support for its downtown Fort Lauderdale, low-cost affordable housing project.

Last Sunday, they purchased a full-page advertisement in the Sun Sentinel, republishing an editorial that appeared in SFGN last September.

Subsequently, on Monday, AHF furthered its public advocacy for the initiative by sending thousands of city residents a glossy mailer with the same op-ed, highlighting prominent bullet points to make its case.

Like the newspaper ad, the mailer was also paid for and sent out on its own by AHF. The issue is further addressed by Publisher Norm Kent in his editorial today on page 30.

The proposed AHF campus. Courtesy Glavovic Studio.

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Smart Ride Raises $1.3 Million Jason Parsley

T

his year’s Smart Ride continued its record breaking streak raising more than $1.3 million dollars.

“After 16 years it still overwhelms me to see our community come together and be so selfless and caring, whether it’s helping a friend change a tire, or a donation you receive from an old high school friend you haven’t heard from in decades,” said Smart Ride founder Glen Weinzimer.

The annual two-day 165-mile bicycle ride from Miami to Key West ride launched in 2003. Since then the event has raised more than $12 million for HIV-related nonprofits.

This year’s ride took place Nov. 15 and 16. The Smart Ride is the second largest AIDS bicycle ride in the country and the only one of its size to give back 100 percent.

Last year the fundraiser broke its record raising $1.167 million.

“One-hundred percent of it went to help not just the 7 principle benefiting agencies, but the thousands across the state that will benefit from your hard work,” Weinzimer said at the closing ceremonies.

This year’s 7 major beneficiaries include Broward House, Children’s Diagnostic & Treatment Centers, Metro Inclusive Health, Pridelines, AIDS Help, Miracle of Love and Compass.

Top Fundraisers Individuals 1. Donald Dotzauer — $35,000 2. Joseph Locke — $31,425 3. Juan Benitez — $16,400 4. Bobbie Cotton — $13,000 5. Ed Pascoe — $12,105 6. Kevin Dickinson — $10,200 7. Timothy Hart — $9,848 8. Ryan Fuller — $9,280 9. John Labus — $8,863 10. Kevin O’Connor — $8,646

Teams 1. Key West Mile Markers — $187,688 2. What What — $115,402 3. Prideliners — $70,966 4. Bikesexuals — $60,910 5. LOVE ALWAYS WINS — $57,384 6. Wheeling Warriors — $51,232 7. Broward House Give A Shift — $48,712 8. Team Miracle of Love — $48,348 9. CDTC Cyclones — $43,013 10. Tampa Bay Area Cyclists — $42,171

Visit TheSmartRide.org for more information.

NEWS miami-dade

Give Miami Day Raises $14.4 Million for Local Non-Profits Photo via The Miami Foundation, Facebook.

Jason Parsley

T

he Miami Foundation’s Give Miami Day set another annual fundraising record on Nov. 21 when it raised more than $14.4 million in a 24-hour period.

“Today, we celebrate a record-breaking year in every way – a record number of dollars raised for a record number of nonprofits,” said Joe Fernandez, interim president and CEO of The Miami Foundation. “We are astounded and grateful for the generosity of Miamians. Once again, the outpouring of support around Give Miami Day proves there is a collective community understanding that the transformative work produced by local nonprofits has tremendous impact on the quality of life in Greater Miami.”

More than 39,000 donations were made to 834 local non-profits. Give Miami Day is held annually on the Thursday before Thanksgiving. Since 2012 the fundraising

event has raised more than $47 million.

All types of non-profits benefited from the major fundraising event from those focused on science and animals, to civic engagement and housing. The LGBT community was represented as well. The Harvey Milk Foundation was one of beneficiaries raising $34,298. Another one was The Alliance for GLBTQ Youth, which raised more than $5,000.

Visit GiveMiamiDay.org for more information.

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news PA L M B E A C H 2019 Transgender Day of Remembrance Held in Belle Glade

Local trans woman Bee Love Slater remembered at event

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On November 20, 2019, more than 200 people gathered in the auditorium of the Palm Beach State College Dolly Hand Cultural Arts Center in Belle Glade to observe the annual Transgender Day of Remembrance.

This year’s observance was made more poignant by the brutal murder of Palm Beach County resident and trans woman, Bee Love Slater, 23. There have been no arrests and local authorities have not determined whether or not it was a hate crime.

So far this year, 22 known transgender women have been killed because of who they were.

“We are partnering with organizations across the state to bring this tragedy, and all the other victims of senseless violence, into the light as we call for acceptance of transgender people everywhere and the recognition that they are equal members of our society,” said a Compass representative when the venue was announced.

Compass’ co-sponsors included: PBCHRC (Palm Beach County Human Rights Council); MCC (Metropolitan Community Church) of the Palm Beaches; the Rusty Gordon LGBTQ Democratic Caucus of the Palm Beaches; PFLAG (Parents, Families and Friends of Lesbians and Gays - Palm Beach; Equality Florida; PBSO (Palm Beach Sheriff’s Office); and Palm Beach County Victim Services.

Compass provided a bus to take guests to and from Belle Glade. The tone in the vehicle was low key in both directions.

Michael Riordan from Compass moderated the event setting the theme with: “Anti-Transgender violence needs to stop. All violence needs to stop. When any of us are marginalized we are all marginalized. When any of us are targeted with hate speech and hateful actions, we all become less.”

Prior to the program, Compass chief information officer Claudia Harrison played a somber solo on her violin. She played

Prior to the program, Compass chief information officer Claudia Harrison played a somber solo on her violin.

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Julie Seaver speaking at the event.

Photo courtesy of Donald Cavanaugh.

again during the reading of the names of the 22 victims.

Guest speakers in order of presentation were: Nik Harris, LGBTQ consumer advocate with Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services – the first and so far only state cabinet with specific protections for LGBTQ residents; renowned Palm Beach County entertainer Velvet Lenore – who shared her own experience with an assailant in Wilton Manors; Rev. Marie Alford-Harkey, pastor at MCC of the Palm Beaches – gave an invocation prior to the reading of the names of those killed this year; members of the Compass Youth Department who read the names; and Julie Seaver, Executive Director at Compass - who made closing remarks and confirmed her agency’s commitment to continue to reach out to transgender people and to all members of the LGBT community in Palm Beach County.

Event planners had been told that Bee Love’s family was unable to attend the observance but her grandmother, Cookie, arrived unannounced until she cried out with grief during the invocation. After the names, she was brought to the podium where she shared her pain and thanked the gathering for their support.

Julie Seaver closed the event with the following: “I am sad and angry for this day, for those we have lost, and for their surviving family members. I wish we didn’t have to stand here on a national day of remembrance for those murdered for the simple fact of their very existence. Tonight, what gives us hope is each of you and the legacy that you choose to carry forward.

What can we do? Stand up for one another, see something — say something. We have to do better. We have to be better.”

November 2019 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com • Vol. 9 Issue 1

the

More AIDS stories online!

S pirit

SFGN’s HIV/AIDS News Source

South Florida To Mark

World AIDS Day Denise Royal

W

orld AIDS Day is Sunday, Dec. 1. It’s recognized locally, nationally and worldwide to remember the HIV epidemic is ongoing.

World AIDS Day is an opportunity for South Florida to bring attention to the HIV epidemic and the efforts to end it.

The theme for the 2019 observance is “Ending the The World AIDS Day walk and vigil on Wilton Drive in 2018.

SFGN file photo.

HIV/AIDS Epidemic: Community by Community.” “The building of our most important relationships begins with the community,” said Lorenzo Lowe, Director of Prevention at Compass, the LGBT community center in Lake Worth Beach.

“We have to show up for one another and speak about hard truths.”

Some of those hard truths can be seen in Florida’s HIV

statistics. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), more than 115,000 people in Florida live with HIV. That’s more than 12 percent of all the cases in the U.S. In 2018, Florida reported 4,906 new HIV diagnoses, a 3 percent increase from 2017.

This year marks the thirty-second anniversary of World AIDS Day. “As the years continue to pass, the echoed messages of education, access to care, equality, and equity are continued areas of concern for many communities and service providers in South Florida,” Lowe said.

The CDC recommends that everyone between the ages of 13 and 64 get tested for HIV at least once as part of routine health care. For those with specific risk factors, the CDC recommends getting tested at least once a year.

So again why is World AIDS Day important?

The fight against HIV/AIDS is a daily ritual in some capacity. Everyone has an important role in ending this epidemic - even if it means making changes to social systems that negatively impacts disproportionate amounts of people of color.

This is also a time for those to leverage their resources, privileges and skills to bring awareness and increase its access to everyone in need.

Organizations in South Florida will host several events.

Turn the page for an event schedule.

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World AIDS Day

SFGN's HIV/AIDS News Source

South Florida To Mark

World AIDS Day continued from previous page

A few of the events happening this month:

A World AIDS Day vigil. Photo credit: Elvert Barnes, via Flickr.

Sunday, Dec. 1 Faith-Based Response to AIDS Partnership The Pride Center partners with Fountain of Love Ministries on World AIDS Day - Sunday, Dec. 1st from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. for fellowship, giveaways, and FREE HIV Testing.

Fountain of Love Ministries is located at 5481 North SR 7, Tamarac, FL 33319. For more information please contact Lorenzo Robertson at LRobertson@PrideCenterFlorida.org or call 954-463-9005 ext. 306

World AIDS Day Open House The staff and volunteers at the Pride Center’s HIV Prevention Programs hosts an open house at the Pride Center from 5 p.m. to 6:15 p.m. Attendees can learn about the programs and services the Pride Center offers. The Center will serve light refreshments.

World AIDS Day Vigil and Remembrance Walk On Sunday, Dec. 1st at 6:30 p.m., the Pride Center invites our community to come together for a World AIDS Day Vigil and Remembrance Walk. Participants will meet at Hagen Park and walk down Wilton Drive united in memory, healing, and love.

The candlelit walk will culminate at The Pride Center for a few words of respectful remembrance, support, and continued vigilance. We invite the community to join us at Hagen Park to strengthen this tradition of hope and healing.

Monday, Dec. 2, 6 p.m. to 8 p.m.

Opening Ceremony AIDS Memorial Quilt To honor those we have lost to AIDS, Compass will observe World AIDS Day on Dec. 2. This year the display will include 30 Blocks of the Memorial AIDS Quilt. In addition, all panels on display will be requests from our community members. The AIDS Memorial Quilt Open to Public from Dec. 2 - Dec. 12.

Compass is located at 201 North Dixie Highway, Lake Worth Beach 33460.

The Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence at a past World AIDS Day Vigil in Wilton Manors.

SFGN File Photo.

Wednesday, Dec. 4, 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.

Hidden Truths of HIV and AIDS History Compass’ Health Services Team is partnering with the World AIDS Museum for a unique Community Education Event. You’re invited to learn about the true history of the origins of HIV. Requel Lopes, Executive Director of the World AIDS Museum in Ft. Lauderdale will present. Dinner will be provided.

Attendees may tour 22 panels of the Names Project Quilt following the presentation.

Food will be served. Register for free: https://hivhiddentruths.eventbrite.com

Saturday, Dec. 7, 8:00 pm to 11:00 pm AHF Concert AIDS Healthcare Foundation commemorates World AIDS Day every year to remind the global community that the fight to end HIV is far from over. This year’s show takes place at the Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts of Miami Dade County. It features performances by singer/ songwriterIndia, multi-talented musician Amara La Negra and singer/songwriter Todrick Hall.

Staff and volunteers from the organization will set up at the show to offer free HIV testing, interactive sessions to raise awareness of HIV/AIDS, and more.

Knight Center Hall at The Arsht Center is located at 1300 Biscayne Boulevard, Miami 33132.

You can learn more about HIV testing sites and other events planned for World AIDS Day by visiting www.AIDS.gov.

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SFGN's HIV/AIDS News Source

Guest Column

On World AIDS Day CAN + Community = Health Alexis Howard

Director of Marketing

W

orld AIDS Day is a time when CAN CAN Community Health has continued Community Health joins the global to expand nationwide by partnering with community to show support for community-based organizations to better those living with and affected serve those most impacted

by HIV, remembering those

by HIV, Hepatitis C, STDs CAN we’ve lost, and raising HIV and other diseases. Through Community awareness to end HIV stigma. our strategic community Health CAN Community Health has partnerships with Broward served the HIV community in House and Pridelines, CAN provides HIV Florida since 1991, and now Community Health focuses specialty on the unique needs of nationwide. We are a private, care by the LGBTQ community by not-for-profit organization boardoffering education, assistance, dedicated to the treatment, and support. Together with care, and continual wellness certified our partners, we are raising of people living with HIV, Infectious awareness, overcoming barriers Hepatitis C, STDs and other Disease to care and fighting to end HIV diseases. Some of our locations trained stigma. also provide dental, behavioral In South Florida, CAN health, and lifestyle counseling physicians.

Community Health has to all patients, regardless partnered with Pridelines of their financial situation, insurance status, or ability to pay. CAN and Broward House. Together, we provide Community Health provides HIV specialty PrEP services, HIV education and treatment, care by board-certified Infectious Disease specialized wellness support and resources to the LGBTQ community and local support trained physicians.

South Florida CAN Community Health locations: CAN Community Health, North Miami: 13936 NW 7th Avenue, Miami, FL 33168.

(786) 800-5631 CAN Community Health, South Beach: 427 Washington Ave, Miami Beach, FL 33139.

(305) 514-0813 CAN Community Health, at Pridelines: 6400 N.E. 4th Ct., Miami, FL 33138.

(305) 571-9601

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Broward: CAN Community Health at Broward House, Ft. Lauderdale: 1726 SE 3rd Ave., Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33316.

(754) 701-6920 CAN Community Health at Broward House, Plantation: 4101 NW 3rd Court, Suite 9, Plantation, FL 33317.

(754) 701-6911

to community events like Miami Beach and Ft. Lauderdale Pride.

On Tuesday, November 12, 2019, CAN Community Health celebrated the Grand Opening of our newest clinic located at 427 Washington Ave, Miami Beach, FL 33139. Dr. Amy Wecker and her team, together with Pridelines, offer an array of services including Age Management, HIV & STDs testing and treatment, Hepatitis C treatment, PrEP services, vaccinations and transportation services. We are also proud to provide our South Beach clients with a personalized plan of care through support from our own on-site Patient Care Coordinator and PrEP Navigator.

On this World AIDS Day, CAN Community Health welcomes you help raise awareness for communities impacted by HIV and to know your status. If you have been or are sexually active you can visit www. cancommunityhealth.org to learn more about our services and locations.

11.27.2019 •

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Column

SFGN's HIV/AIDS News Source

Pedro Zamora

25 Years Later His activism and story touched America

Jesse Monteagudo

Pedro Zamora.

Photo via Facebook.

T

he National LGBTQ Wall of Honor is a memorial wall created as part of the Stonewall National Monument.

Fifty inaugural LGBT “pioneers, trailblazers, and heroes” were inducted into the Wall of Honor as part of this year’s Stonewall 50 festivities. The youngest of these was Pedro Pablo Zamora (February 29, 1972 - November 11, 1994), a Cuban-American AIDS activist, educator and, most famously, reality television star.

Though he was only 22 when he passed away 25 years ago, Zamora did more for AIDS education and LGBT rights than most people who enjoyed much longer lives.

Zamora was a cast member of the MTV reality show The Real World: San Francisco, which was televised between June and November of 1994. By that time Zamora already had years of experience as an AIDS educator, working with minorities and young people.

His appearance on The Real World only expanded his outreach. MTV, which already broke barriers during the first two seasons of The Real World, broke a few more when it hired a cast member who was not only gay but also a minority member and a Person Living With AIDS. The show’s mostly youthful audience became acquainted with a man their age who, though living with the consequences of HIV, enjoyed a productive life.

Zamora’s onscreen relationship with Sean Sasser culminated in a commitment ceremony between the two men, another television first. Sadly, Zamora’s health declined while he was filming The Real World and he died on Nov. 11, 1994, only hours after the last episode was aired.

Pedro Zamora was born on the outskirts of Havana on Leap Year Day, 1972. In 1980 the 8-year-old Zamora and his family fled Cuba during the Mariel Boatlift. His beloved mother Zoraida died of skin cancer when Pedro was just 13.

He coped with his grief by excelling in school: He was an honor student and president of the Science Club. Though he was openly gay at an early age, the young Zamora

His AIDS work took him around the world.

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was uneducated about safe sex and AIDS prevention.

Zamora tested positive for HIV when he was just 17. Graduating from high school (1990) Zamora joined Miami’s Body Positive Center and soon became a full-time AIDS educator. His AIDS work took him around the world, appearing before the U.S. Congress, at international AIDS conferences and on the Phil Donahue and Oprah Winfrey television

shows.

“If you want to reach me as a young man, especially a young gay man of color, then you need to give me information in a language and vocabulary I can understand and relate to,” he said.

Learning that MTV was casting an HIV positive person for the 1994 season of The Real World, Zamora auditioned,

winning the part out of 25,000 applicants.

After his death, Zamora was honored for his work educating people, on TV and elsewhere, about AIDS and LGBT issues.

Zamora was praised by folks in all walks of life, including then-President Bill Clinton: “Over the past few years, Pedro became a member of all our families. Now, no one in America can say they’ve never known someone who’s living with AIDS,” Clinton said. “Pedro is a role model for all of us. He’s shown the courage and strength to move beyond himself, reaching out to others while struggling with his own illness.

The challenge to each of us is to do something about it and to continue Pedro’s fight.”

Though the lives of LGBT people and People Living With AIDS have improved over the past quarter of a century, the fight is not over. Pedro Zamora’s life and death only encourages us to go on.

Jesse Monteagudo is a freelance writer and journalist. He has been an active member of South Florida's LGBT community for more than four decades and has served in various community organizations.

and Present:

World AIDS Day Vigil & Remembrance Walk

Join our Community

Sun., December 1st, 2019 Hagen Park 2020 Wilton Drive Gather: 6:30 pm Walk Step-off: 7:00 pm Ending with a vigil at 2040 N Dixie Hwy - Wilton Manors, FL

https://browardhouse.org/events/upcoming-events/world-aids-day

11.27.2019 •

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the

S pirit

The Eyes of History

SFGN's HIV/AIDS News Source

The Eyes of History A look at some magazines and faces of the aids crisis... History’s

"

first draft

HIV does not make people dangerous to know, so you can shake their hands and give them a hug: Heaven knows they need it.¨

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column letters to the editor

SFGN Should Recognize Don Casteel and His

Local Karaoke Nights Photo via Don Casteel, Facebook.

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I love your paper, and enjoyed taking part in voting for Fort Lauderdale and Wilton Manors Bests, with only one exception.

In the category of Best Karaoke, Rumors, Hunters and The Pub were nominated, Hunters winning. However, all three venues are hosted

by Don Casteel and I certainly feel he deserves credit, or at least an honorable mention.

He brings his own touch screen equipment, stocked with about 30,000 titles (just a rough guess) and is endlessly helpful, even to the most baleful, woebegone, soused or obnoxious singer.

Until recently he was hosting the show 7 nights a week. Please consider honoring him as well as the venue in the future.

Thanks, and keep up the good work. You are important to our community.

Kurt Giesemann

Let your voice be heard!  Submit your own letter to Jason.Parsley@sfgn.com

11.27.2019 •

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LISTINGS

ALL-INCLUSIVE... AS NEWS

SHOULD BE AS DIVERSE AS EVER

Whether you are in the bisexual or transgender communities, are asexual, gender-fluid, pansexual, or maybe you still aren’t sure, SFGN is proudly here to connect you with the rest of our colorful community.

www.SFGN.com

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SouthFloridaGayNews.com

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Christ Lutheran Church 1955 E. Oakland Park Blvd., Ft. Lauderdale (954) 564-7673 - christlutheranfl.org pastordeborah@christlutheranfl.org Worship: Sunday 10:00am Church of our Savior, MCC Church of Our Savior, MCC 2011 S. Federal Hwy. Boynton Beach. churchofoursaviormcc.org | 561-733-4000 Sunday Service 10AM

DARSHAN CENTER FOR SPIRITUAL EVOLUTION 1410 NE 26th Street Wilton Manors, Fl 33305 917-579-3750 www. darshancenterwiltonmanors.org RevDrGTelesco@gmail.com Interfaith Spiritual Services on Sundays 6:30PM Spiritual Study Group Thursdays 7PM St. Nicholas Episcopal Church 1111 E. Sample Road, Pompano Beach (954)942-5887 - stnicholasfl.org office@stnicholasfl.org Sundays 8:00AM & 10:30AM (9:30AM only from Memorial Day through Labor Day) First Congregational United Church of Christ 1415 North K Street, Lake Worth 561-582-6691 - fcclw.org office@lakeworthchurch.org Service Time: Sunday 10:30AM United Church of Christ Fort Lauderdale 2501 NE 30th Street, Fort Lauderdale (954)563-4271 - uccftl.org revpatrickrogers@gmail.com Service Times: Thursdays 10:30AM (Elliot Hall) & Sundays 10:30AM (Sanctuary)

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Souls’ Epi copal All

Church

4025 PINE TREE DRIVE, MIAMI BEACH 305-520-5410

| ALLSOULSMB.ORG

CHURCH OF OUR SAVIOR, MCC 2011 S. Federal Highway, Boynton Beach, FL 33435

Christ Lutheran Church 1955 East Oakland Park Blvd.

Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33306 www.christlutheranfl.org

Sunday Service @ 10am

Wherever You Are On God’s LGBTQIA Rainbow, You Are Welcome...

Fellowship after Service

SUNDAY SERVICE 10 A.M.

I

explained in a previous article it is best to understand the Bible as two broad, over-arching stories – the first being the ugly account of humanity filled with murder, lust, adultery, greed, incest, rape, pillage, and loads of violence (all of which is in the Bible) and the second as God’s story of love, forgiveness, acceptance, peace and joy. To avoid projecting an ugly caricature of humanity as God, one must read the Bible not from beginning to end like other books but through the lens of Christ – with love incarnate. As our Presiding Bishop often says: If it’s not about love, it’s not about God. Christcentered love is the LifeGiving Way and the Truth for finding the scriptural path to God; and for this we can be profoundly grateful on Thanksgiving.

I will illustrate some of the wonderful revelations in Holy Scripture using the two biblical creation stories. Yes, there are two creation stories. The first spans Genesis 1-2:3 and the second spans Genesis 2:4-25.

They are distinct in many ways. The first is the familiar story of God creating in six days and resting on the seventh. Humanity is not created until the last act of the sixth day, after animals, birds, and sea creatures exist.

God saw all that he created as good, but then “God created humankind in his image, … male and female he created them” (1:27); and then the created order is described as not just good but “very good.”

The sequence of creation is very different

Rev. Rick Rhen-Sosbe, Pastor

in the second story. Adam is created first, followed by fish, birds, and other beasts.

Whereas there is no mention of the physical body’s creation in the first story, in the second Adam is created from the dust of the earth. Further, while God repeatedly says everything is good in the first account, in the second God says, “It’s not good that … man should be alone” (2:18). Instead of being created simultaneously, woman is created from Adam’s rib in the second account.

The people who compiled what we now know as the Bible were not sophisticated. They didn’t have iPhones, iPads, and the like; but they weren’t stupid either. They knew they were laying two different stories side-by-side. One need not (and shouldn’t) read the Bible as a history or science book. Instead, consider the underlying truths conveyed by the stories. All that God creates is good. We – you and me – are good just as we are. Thanks be to God! Further, humanity is not only the culmination of creation but also created in the image of God – sharing something with God and each other. Do unto others as you would have them do unto you.

Importantly, it is not good for us to be alone. We are made to be in relationship – with God and with each other – in loving relationships; for God is love and we are created in God’s image. Happy Thanksgiving!

Next month – the real St. Nicholas: sailors, prostitutes, and children.

561-733-4000

www.ChurchOfOurSaviorMCC.org MCC, Transforming Ourselves as We Transform The World

“Love without judgement” Holy Angels National Catholic Church 2917 NE 6th Ave Wilton Manors, FL 33334 Facebook.com/HolyAngelsFL www.HolyAngelsFL.org

954-633-2987

A home for your spirit.

Mass Schedule: Sabado 6:00 PM misa en español • Sunday 11:00 AM mass in English • All are welcome!

Join us for Shabbat service Every Friday night at 8pm Saturday, December 14th

$15 Door includes 7 games Specials 3 cards for $1 Food available for purchase: Hot dogs, drinks, chips Doors open 6:30pm/Play starts 7pm Cash only please

Learn more about our many programs & events www.EtzChaimFlorida.org

Congregation Etz Chaim

2038 N. Dixie Hwy, Wilton Manors, FL 33305, on the Pride Center campus For more information: www.EtzChaimFlorida.org or 954Ͳ564Ͳ9232 11.27.2019 •

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Publisher's Editorial

Convictions

Hope is Forever …but a home won’t hurt

x

Norm Kent

Photo courtesy of Norm Kent.

norm.kent@sfgn.com

O

n June 5, 1981, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, published a report describing cases of a rare lung infection in five young, previously healthy, gay men in Los Angeles.

Within days, doctors from across the U.S. shared stories of seemingly similar reports within their own communities.

By the end of the calendar year, a cumulative total of 270 cases had been reported. A total of 121 men had died, of a severe and unidentifiable immune deficiency.

America initially came to know the illness as a gay related immune deficiency. For many, gay men were paying a price for their lewd and licentious lifestyles. The powerful and the prosperous looked the other way.

From pulpits to political leaders, it was not unheard of to hear people say, ‘Fags are getting what they deserve.’ We were social pariahs, modern day lepers.

In South Florida, on January 16, 1981, the Ku Klux Klan was still meeting in Davie. Only whites need apply. It was a different world, then. Now, they can only meet in the White House.

How scared was America of homosexuals as they learned this virus was spreading?

In Fort Lauderdale, an HIV positive gay librarian, Todd Shuttleworth, was fired from his job at the Main Library on East Broward Boulevard.

Officials were so frightened of the emerging plague they thought he could possibly pass on the virus to others just by handing out books.

In 1984, a small group of 8 gay community leaders would gather at its signature hospitality establishment, the Marlin Beach Hotel on A1A in Fort Lauderdale.

These courageous pioneers would start the first group to raise the consciousness of our

community, hoping to tame the spread of this disease. It did not work, not here or anywhere else.

In the U.S. today, 1.2 million live with an HIV infection, and while, thank God, deaths have declined precipitously, gay and bisexual men, along with African Americans and Latinos, remain disproportionately affected and infected.

In greater Fort Lauderdale, according to recent data and statistics, nearly 20,000 persons are living in Fort Lauderdale with the virus. We must do better. It’s on us. The tools are at our disposal.

Our communities are blessed with social service agencies, treatment facilities, prophylactic programs, and volunteers offering aid and assistance where and when required.

As we approach World AIDS Day in 2019, SFGN salutes all of you.

Our pages are too limited to praise all those so deserving of honor. They are accomplishments probably more deserving of recognition than we give them.

“There is too much apathy in the gay community about AIDS today, one comedian jokes, but who cares?” he said. We do. It is still a serious journey we cannot ignore, but must necessarily illuminate, and not just on Dec. 1, each year.

Most recently, we salute the Smart Riders who pedaled from Miami to Key West, raising with their teams over a million dollars in just three days to promote HIV advocacy programs.

The 21st century challenge to HIV requires innovative new undertakings, from funding and founding healthy housing programs to holistic healing centers.

We have learned that addressing HIV and AIDS over decades has required more than taking drug cocktails, protease inhibitors, or the current pill du jour, Truvada. We must

In 1984, a small group of 8 gay community leaders would gather at its signature hospitality establishment, the Marlin Beach Hotel on A1A in Fort Lauderdale.

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create newer remedies.

On Dixie Highway in Wilton Manors, you can see the Pride Center at Equality Park’s formula for a new future, creating housing for people in need.

In Fort Lauderdale, the AIDS Healthcare Foundation has an even bolder and bigger project, a seven story 500-unit low cost, affordable housing facility for downtown. It has met obstacles in city circles.

In a September editorial, we asked city commissioners to create the conditions enabling the project to move forth expeditiously and open quickly. We stand by that hope today.

Last weekend, AHF initiated and paid for a visible and public media campaign to further their effort by re-publishing our editorial in Sun Sentinel advertisements and local community mailers. Like Ronald Reagan said, they paid for the microphone. Good for them,

and better for all of us. Let their message be heard by many more than just our pages can reach.

AHF understands that ending AIDS tomorrow means creating conditions today where people can find a place to be healthy now. AHF has always been willing to buck the tide and tackle the titans. They are more likely to partner with the poor than the prosperous.

It was 25 years ago last month that we buried Pedro Zamora. Here in the real world, in South Florida, while deaths are diminishing, new infections still spiral in the wrong direction.

We have lost too many for too long to the HIV. Let’s work towards celebrating a cure and not an anniversary.

To remember the legacy of those lost, we must still fight like hell for the living. Our duty is to find new ways to health and healing. Safe and affordable housing is a good start, don’t you think?

S AV E T H E D AT E , B E C O M E A PA R T O F

LGBT HISTORY!

ANY TIME OF DAY OR NIGHT ON SATURDAY, NOV. 30 DA N C IN G • JO GGI N G • L AU GH IN G • SLE E PIN G • S WIMMIN G • TANNIN G • S IN G IN G

Send SFGN your EVERY DAY PHOTO and

celebrate with us

in capturing one day in the life of LGBT South Floridians.

Submit photos taken on Nov. 30 to Jason Parsley at Jason.Parsley@sfgn.com. Please include the time that the photo was taken, complete names of all people, city you live in and a short description of what’s taking place.

11.27.2019 •

31

Jesse’s Journal

Convictions

The Perfect Trumper Jesse Monteagudo

W

hen Donald Trump promised to “Make America Great Again” millions of Americans followed him to the White House and beyond.

To them Trump was the leader who would bring the U.S. back to the good old days, albeit a largely imaginary one where women obeyed their menfolks, minorities knew their place, queer people stayed in their closets, and immigrants were white.

To Trump’s followers, politics became a matter of good versus evil and Trump is the Messiah who will surely vanquish evil in the name of God, guns and the nuclear family. Any proof to the contrary is just fake news concocted by the liberal media and other political enemies.

Hoyt Deau Hutchinson is a Perfect Trumper. A white, working class male with a high school education, the 32-year-old Hutchinson fits the profile of the typical Trump supporter.

Hutchinson’s politics are unsurprisingly conservative: He once posted an article titled “10 Reasons Why Homosexual ‘Marriage’ Is Harmful and Must Be Opposed.”

Hutchinson keeps up with politics by watching Fox News, especially his favorite TV personalities, Tucker Carlson and Sean Hannity.

And Hutchinson takes his politics seriously.

On Nov. 9 the president visited Tuscaloosa, Alabama - definitely Trump country - to watch the University of Alabama play Louisiana State University at Bryant-Denny Stadium. (LSU won 46-41). Also present was “Baby Trump,” a 20-foot tall balloon that anti-Trump protesters use to mock the president wherever he might be.

“Baby Trump” is a joke, but Hoyt Hutchinson was not laughing. Instead, he “was shaking with anger” when he saw Baby Trump near Bryant-Denny Stadium and vowed to “pop this balloon,” according to his Facebook post.

Hutchinson yelled at the protesters but worried that they might see him so he bought an Alabama shirt to blend into the crowd. Approaching Baby Trump under the pretext of wanting to photograph it, Hutchinson used a material cuter with a sharp razor to cut an 8-foot long gash in the balloon.

“Hoyt made sure our beloved President didn’t have to see this disrespectful balloon on the streets of T-town today,” said the GoFundMe page that Hutchinson started to raise money for legal fees.

Though Hutchinson tried to get away, he was arrested

By his violent rhetoric, at campaign rallies and elsewhere, Trump encourages his followers to commit acts of violence.

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Photo credit: Ted Eytan, via Flickr.

and charged with criminal mischief. “Trump 2020” Hutchinson cried, as he was led away.

Hutchinson soon became a hero to the MAGA crowd. Supporters and well-wishers sent him messages of congratulations and his GoFundMe page raised over $45,000 in just a few days.

Hutchinson posted bail and two days later he called the syndicated radio program “Rick & Bubba Show” to express his views.

“I get so mad about people not taking a stand. The left wants to use religion against you like you shouldn’t act like this and stuff but I’ll tell you this - the Devil knows the Bible as good as we do,” he said. “We don’t have two parties anymore.

We have good versus evil. When you got one party that says it’s OK to kill babies and, by the way, this is the first time I’ve ever seen a liberal get mad about chopping up a baby.”

When asked if his slashing was similar to Jesus driving the money changers from the Temple, Hutchinson agreed.

Sadly, Hutchinson is not alone. There are many Perfect Trumpers out there, especially in Tuscaloosa where Trump was cheered by his supporters at the Alabama/LSU game.

By his violent rhetoric, at campaign rallies and elsewhere, Trump encourages his followers to commit acts of violence.

Hutchinson’s act only damaged a balloon.

Future Hutchinsons might go further, killing reporters, political progressives and minority members alike in the name of Donald Trump.

Jesse Monteagudo is a freelance writer and journalist. He has been an active member of South Florida's LGBT community for more than four decades and has served in various community organizations.

11.27.2019 •

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Convictions

Trans Talk

The Power of Friendship Two transmasculine people having a conversation. Photo via The Gender Spectrum Collection, VICE.

Atticus Ranck

W

hen I got my top surgery in February 2015, the thing that made me the most nervous was the recovery. It wasn’t the pain that worried me, it was, “Who was going to help take care of me if I need it?”

I was single and I didn’t have what I had three years later when I had my hysterectomy and metoidioplasty – a wife. Being married to the woman I’m married to means that I always have someone to be there for me – for boring Friday nights, for Saturday morning coffee and HGTV shows, for arguing over what’s for dinner (again).

But it also means that she’s there for my health, too. After my hysterectomy and metoidioplasty in May 2018, she took off work, drove me to the hospital, anxiously waited for six-and-a-half hours while I was in surgery, slept on and off in a chair next to me in the hospital for a night, and then took care of me at home, making sure I was comfortable and following the post-surgery recovery instructions. Even recently, I had LASIK eye surgery and she drove me to the center, watched the 10-minute surgery through a glass wall, drove me home, put me to bed, and then made sure I took my eye drops every hour for the next three days.

While I think my wife is exceptional, many people who are married have someone like my wife, who can be there for them through their health issues. There are even multiple research studies that suggest that married men are healthier than single men.

But when I had my top surgery, I didn’t have a wife.

Who was going to take me to the hospital for my surgery? Who would drive me home? Would someone be there for me when I woke up? Who would care?

I spoke to my therapist about my fears and she suggested I ask my friends for help. I didn’t want to.

I wasn’t good at asking for help and I felt like I would burden them. She suggested I come up with a schedule so that the tasks were divided between my friends – one friend could drive me to the hospital, one could be

I wrote up a schedule and then did the hard thing and asked my friends to be there for me. And they were. They all showed up.

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there when I woke up to drive me home, one could stay with me overnight, etc. In this way, it wasn’t too much to ask of any one friend.

So I followed her advice. I asked my friends to take shifts with me so that I had at least one person with me at all times for the first 24 hours.

I wrote up a schedule and then did the hard thing and asked my friends to be there for me. And they were. They all showed up. They were even excited to have been asked. I had a friend who drove me to the hospital, one who picked me up, a few friends who took turns sitting with me at my apartment following my surgery, another friend who slept the night on the couch next to me. They all stepped up in big ways and it was truly humbling and I never properly thanked them for making me feel so loved and taken care of.

At that time, I was living far away from my family and I didn’t have a partner. I just had my friends. It’s not uncommon for many LGBT people to be in the position I was in. When people experience health issues or undergo surgery, often it’s the family and spouses who step up.

But for many queer people who may be ostracized from their family or don’t have children or a spouse, who can step up? It’s really hard to ask for help. I was so fortunate that I had my therapist to encourage me to ask and that my friends came together for me. When LGBT people are less likely to have strong connections with their family and much less likely to have adult children who can be there for them, it’s why friendship is so important and why we often call our friends “Chosen Family.”

So take care of your friends and don’t be afraid to ask for help. Your friends want to be there for you.

Atticus Ranck develops LGBTQ+ educational and training curriculum and resides in Albany, NY. Prior to this, he has worked at two different LGBTQ nonprofits, including as the Director of Transgender Services at SunServe.

Convictions

Editorial Cartoon

Editorial Cartoon

By Mike Luckovich

11.27.2019 •

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Matt Colunga, Wyoming Johnsons

Mark Hunter, Maryland Hunters Nightclub

Jimmy Cohen, Tennessee Jimmy Cohen’s Day Spa

Misty Eyez, Alaska Christian Gemignani, Conn.

Sun Serve

Casey Koslowski, Wisconsin Grand Resort and Spa

David Jobin, Ohio Our Fund

Brittany Wallman, Iowa Sun Sentinel Journalist

Michael Kahane, AIDS Healthcare Foundation

Mark Segal, New York Publisher, Philadelphia Gay News

Lee Rubin, Pennsylvania Citrix Systems

Gordon Weekes, Florida Assistant Public Defender

Rod Stafford Hagwood, Virginia Sun Sentinel

Andy Rogow, Illinois The Island City Stage

Mark Ketchum, Tiffany Arieagus, Georgia Sun Serve

Rafael Olmeda, NY Sun Sentinel Journalist

Julie Carson, Wisconsin Wilton Manors Commissioner

Steve Greenberg LGBTQ Freedom Fund

Glen Weinzimer, Pennsylvania Smart Ride

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Live streaming • wwnnradio.com

1470 AM

95.3 FM

Afternoon Drive... local and LIVE.

2-4 p.m.

Monday - Friday

Beginning Dec. 2nd: 3-5 p.m.

John Castelli, Illinois Amy Marzotti Castelli Real Estate Services

Row Eliescu, Canada Equality Florida

Mark Kent, Michael Valdez, James Smith, Gay Men’s Chorus of South Florida

Jeff Sterling, Indiana Wilton Manors Entertainment Group

Brandon Wolf, Oregon Equality Florida Media Director

J.W. Arnold, Missouri SFGN

Howard Finkelstein, Florida Broward County Public Defender

David Goldyn, Ellie Moss Theatrical Group

Richard Vitale, Adrian Vargas, AHF Impulse

Jorge Rodriguez The Neil Rogers Show

Ronnie Larsen, California Wilton Manors Theater Factory

Michael Mayo Sun Sentinel Food Critic

Dr. Howard Cunningham, New York Oakland Park Dental

Justin Flippen, Florida Mayor, Coconut Creek

Sarahnell Murphy, Candidate, Broward County State Attorney

Mitch Caesar, New York Candidate, Supervisor of Elections

Joseph La Praeda, Parker Smith Pallant Insurance Associates

Scott Israel, New York Candidate for Sheriff, Broward County

See past shows on youtube at

bit.ly/2OzWjlI

MEET THE GUESTS Recognize any of these faces?

One of them could be you!

My thanks to all of you.

May you have a blessed and bountiful Thanksgiving.

- Norm Kent Publisher, SFGN

facebook.com/normkentshow

11.27.2019 •

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SFGNITES

F O R THE W EE K O F N o v e m b e r 2 8 , 2 0 1 9 - D e c e m b e r 3 , 2 0 1 9 J.W. Arnold

All Aboard!

jw@prdconline.com

THU

11/28

holiday It’s Turkey Day and we’ll be tuned into the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, a holiday tradition. Word is city officials may ground the big balloons due to predicted nasty wind conditions, but we still love the marching bands and the lipsynced musical performances. After the turkey coma subsides, you’ll find us on Wilton Drive giving thanks for the two-fer drinks that fuel the Wilton Manors economy.

FRI

11/29

theater You’re gonna find trouble in River City—well, Boca Raton! Meredith Willson’s beloved flim-flam man, Prof. Harold Hill, comes to the Wick Theatre and Costume Museum, 7901 N. Federal Hwy. in Boca Raton, through Dec. 28. The 1957 Tony Award-winner, “The Music Man,” includes “Til There was You,” “76 Trombones,” “The Wells Fargo Wagon” and other favorites. Tickets are $85 at TheWick.org.

Sunday 12/1

theater

Whether you’re a parent or just aiming for the “guncle of the year” award (that’s short for “gay uncle”), book tickets for the little ones in your life aboard “The Polar Express.” Relive the magical 1987 children’s story aboard the Brightline, departing from Fort Lauderdale station through Dec. 29. The crew sing and dance, serve hot cocoa and snickerdoodles, and there’s even a surprise visit from Santa during the one-hour trip. Oh, and don’t lose that special bell!

Credit: South Florida Gay News.

Photo Credit: SFGN File Photo.

SAT

11/30

SUN

12/1

MON

12/2

TUE

12/3

concert

activism

comedy

comedy

Christmas music will fill the Kravis Center in West Palm Beach tonight at 8 p.m. as saxophonist and ninetime Grammy nominee Dave Koz takes the stage in an evening of smooth jazz holiday favorites. He’ll be joined by Melissa Manchester, Michael Lington, Jonathan Butler and Chris Butler. We can’t think of a better way to ring in the holidays this weekend. Tickets start at $29 at Kravis.org.

The festive holiday season may now be in full swing, but tonight, we’ll be remembering all those who fought— and continue to fight—the battle with HIV/AIDS. Broward House and CAN Community Health are sponsoring the World AIDS Day vigil and remembrance walk from Hagen Park in Wilton Manors. Gather at 6:30 p.m. and the walk will depart at 7 p.m. for the Pride Center, 2020 Wilton Dr.

Legendary filmmaker and author John Waters, best known for directing the cult films “Pink Flamingos,” “Hairspray,” “Cry-Baby,” “Serial Mom” and more, will return to South Florida with his hilarious annual holiday rant, tonight at 8 p.m. at the Kravis Center in West Palm Beach. No holiday tradition is sacred to the sharp-tongued “Pope of Trash” from Baltimore. Tickets start at $25 at Kravis.org.

Join best-selling author and NPR contributor David Sedaris tonight at 7:30 p.m. at the Parker Playhouse, 707 N.E. 8th St. in Fort Lauderdale, for an evening featuring all-new stories from his new book, “Calypso.”

An audience Q&A will follow. With sardonic wit and incisive social critiques, Sedaris has become one of America’s pre-eminent humor writers. Tickets start at $76.49 at ParkerPlayhouse.com.

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SOCIAL MEDIA

NEWSLETTER

Join us in celebrating 10 years of illuminating the lives and loves of our LGBT community Benefitting

January 15, 2020 6 p.m. - 8:30 p.m.

1333 N. Federal Hwy Fort Lauderdale, FL 33304

SOUTH FLORIDA GAY NEWS

Dress: Business Casual Awards Presentation: 7 p.m.

Hosted by Grieco Ford of Fort Lauderdale

Event Emcee: Miss Bryan

Music by VJ Cliff R.

Free Entry • Ticketed Event • Free Parking Silent Auction • 50/50 Raffle • Food • Entertainment Reserve Anniversary Party Tickets Online: bit.ly/2Q0hZbq 11.27.2019 •

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A&E cabaret Tori Scott brings her one-woman act to the Broward Center on Saturday, Nov. 30.

Credit: Submitted photo.

‘Next Bette Midler’ Doesn’t Feel the Pressure J.W. Arnold

C

abaret artist Tori Scott has been called “the Bette Midler of the new millennium,” but she’s not letting it go to her head.

“I’ve told people I’m going to put that on my grave,” Scott said from a New York airport, waiting for a flight to New York City.

She’s bringing her new one-woman act, “Vodka is the Reason for the Season,” to the Broward Center this weekend to kick off the holidays.

But what would the divine Miss M. think about that?

“I would hope she would love the fact she influenced a whole new generation of performers,” Scott said. “They always say you should never meet your heroes, but I’d definitely like to meet her.”

Like Midler during her “Bathhouse Betty” days, Scott cultivated a gay male following early in her career.

“I like to say I was raised by gay men. I got my start in community theater,” she pointed out. “I’m kind of like their girlfriend on stage. I try for a fun, relatable vibe and I can be a bit naughty about things.”

Her Christmas show is certainly not for children. Scott promised plenty of funny holiday stories and some Christmas songs, but not necessarily the ones audiences

might expect. She fine-tuned the show over the years in New York City at Joe’s Pub and acknowledges that the holiday season is simply not easy for many people to endure.

Scott still gets giddy as she recalls that bear cruise that earned her bona fide LGBT creds. She’s never performed in South Florida, but knows there are plenty of “cruise ships out there.” On her last trip, she did a little reconnaissance in the gayborhood, Wilton Manors.

“Not to limit the people I perform for, but performing for gay men is such a treat.

They get so excited and show you they enjoy what they are watching, and I really need the positive reinforcement, I guess,” Scott said.

As for that vodka she references in her show title, Scott hedges her bets: Tom of Finland vodka—yes, that Tom of Finland—sponsors her shows in Europe. She loves the iconic Touko Laaksonen illustrations on the label and isn’t afraid to throw out a “shameless” plug. Unfortunately, it isn’t available in the U.S. But, like many of her gay fans, she’s perfectly happy with Tito’s, too.

“I’m usually a Tito’s girl…a dry Tito’s martini, just a little dirty,” she admitted, just like her show.

Her Christmas show is certainly not for children.

Tori Scott appears in “Vodka is the Reason for the Season” at the Broward Center in Fort Lauderdale on Saturday, Nov. 30 at 8 p.m. Tickets start at $35 at BrowardCenter.org.

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A&E theater

NOVA SINGERS HOLIDAY CONCERTS

Irene Adjan stars in “The Cake” opening Dec. 5 at the Arsht Center in Miami.

Credit: Justin Namon.

Glad Tidings FEATURING

Magnificat Kevin Memley’s Contemporary

‘The Cake’ is Fully-Baked Comedy Ripped from Headlines

FOR CHORUS WITH BRASS ENSEMBLE PLUS THE SOUNDS OF THE SEASON:

J.W. Arnold

H

ow does that old adage go? “Life imitates art,” or is it “Art imitates life.”

In the case of Bekah Brunstetter’s Off Broadway hit comedy “The Cake,” opening Dec. 5 at the Arsht Center in Miami, it’s definitely the latter, as she literally ripped the premise from the headlines.

Life is sweet for Della. Her North Carolina bakery is legendary and she’s just been cast on her favorite television baking competition. When Jen, her late best friend’s daughter, comes home from New York with the news she’s getting married, it seems only natural Della should make her wedding cake.

But then, Della learns Jen’s fiancé is actually a fiancée, and Della’s fear of change becomes the main ingredient threatening to spoil everyone’s happily ever after.

Yes, this is a story about a baker with “deeply held religious beliefs” who must make a life-changing decision when confronted with a moral dilemma.

“That court case involved two gay men in Colorado and this play takes place in North Carolina with a lesbian couple,” noted Margaret Ledford, artistic director of City Theatre. “It personalizes the story in a very different way.”

Ledford, a Carbonell Award-winner, pointed out that in Brunstetter’s telling, the story takes a very different twist.

“This play has so much heart and humanity. It presents both sides of the issue in a compelling way. In this polarizing world of memes, as it were, where you’re right or

wrong, hopefully, we can remember how much more alike we are than different,” she said.

Ledford tapped Irene Adjan, also a veteran, award-winning South Florida veteran, for the role of Della. While Adjan may not share the conflicted personal convictions of her character, she has one important skill to prepare her for the role. She is a culinary school trained pastry chef.

“What are the odds?” she asked, in between rehearsals.

Adjan added, “The characters are consistent, and I like that Della is willing to try, which is a big theme in the play.

We’ve talked in rehearsal that we’re in a climate right now where we don’t have conversations. You’re right or I’m right.

Everything is black and white. If you don’t agree with me, you’re my enemy. This play does a nice job of forcing these characters to talk to each other.”

Surprisingly, Brunstetter’s play came under some criticism from audiences in New York, who, like their right-wing counterparts, objected to the characters’ willingness to consider both sides of the issue.

“Because (Brunstetter) has written it this way, I’ll be interested to see how people on both sides of this issue (in Miami) will recognize people on both sides. I feel like every one of these people in the play are genuinely good people, they’re just products of their upbringing and environment. That’s what makes the play so good,” she said.

City Theatre of Miami presents the southeast regional premiere of Bekah Brunstetter’s “The Cake,” Dec. 5 – 22 in the Carnival Studio Theatre at the Arsht Center in Miami. Tickets start at $45 at ArshtCenter.org.

Jingle Bell Rock • African Noel Light The Candles Silver Bells • Frosty the Snowman Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer Santa Claus is Coming to Town And the Season’s Glorious Choral Sounds of Ave Maria • O Nata Lux Hodie Christus Natus Est “Gloria” from “Masque of Angels”

Chuck Stanley, Artistic Director Anthony Ciotti, Accompanist

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SEASON

DECEMBER 8, 2019 DECEMBER 6, 2019 SUNDAY 4:00 pm FRIDAY 8:00 pm ST PAUL LUTHERAN ST MATTHEW CATHOLIC 701 W Palmetto Park Rd 542 Blue Heron Dr Boca Raton 33486 Hallandale Beach 33009 DECEMBER 10, 2019 DECEMBER 13, 2019 TUESDAY 7:30 pm FRIDAY 8:00 pm ST SEBASTIAN CATHOLIC SUNSHINE CATHEDRAL 2000 Marietta Dr 1480 SW 9th Ave Fort Lauderdale 33316 Fort Lauderdale 33315 All performances: $15/Advance Ticket $20/Ticket on Concert Day Children 12 & Under free Students (any age) free with School I.D. Tickets at www.nova.edu/novasingers

P R E S E N T E D

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A&E Film

A Film About Meth Users in Recovery to

Screen at Pride Center Sean McShee

L

ocal gay therapist, David Fawcett According to Crawford, Kristian wanted and Terrence Crawford have made a people to see “that not only is [Kristian] documentary about recovery from overwhelmingly resilient but that he’s crystal meth. in control of his destiny, that all of the It will screen at the Pride Center on Dec consequences [that] he faces are of his 5. The film follows about a dozen gay men own making and that he can meet those in various stages of recovery from meth challenges head on and victoriously.” addiction. About a third of the men appear People may dispute that assessment, but to be black or Latino.

Crawford admires Kristian for his resilience.

The film differs from most documentaries Crawford felt that, while difficult, these about recovery. First, it shows one of the scenes of Kristian using meth were necessary major characters, Kristian, as an active user to show the harm that meth can cause. throughout the film. Rather than pathetic or demonic, he appears as a complex, relatable Why is meth such a problem character. among the LGBT communities?

Second, some recovery stories focus on one person’s recovery. This film focuses According to Fawcett meth use has on recovery as a social process. Crawford increased among the following LGBT feels that recovery requires a communities: supportive social network.

Fawcett Fawcett appears in the film to 1) Black and Latinx gay and provide a clinical perspective. bi men cautioned Crawford directed the film. This that people in film has professional quality 2) Transgender women, early recovery camera work, sound, and particularly sex workers could benefit editing.

This film opens with Kristian 3) Gay men in middle/ from seeing putting crystal meth up his older age this film, but nose. The film has other scenes “it would have 4) Long-term HIV survivors. of guys smoking, snorting, and shooting meth. People in early to be balanced recovery might find those scenes Fawcett said that meth use with the risk of triggering. Fawcett cautioned has remained relatively constant activation.” that people in early recovery among white gay men. could benefit from seeing this Like all other minorities, film, but “it would have to be balanced with LGBT people experience minority stress. the risk of activation.”

That type of stress results from the stigma, Crawford became friends with Kristian in prejudice, harassment, and fear of violence a 12-step program. Then Kristian went back linked to minority status. Minority stress to using. According to Crawford, Kristian can lead to a variety of mental health and chose to take part “because he felt forgotten. physical problems.

He felt people pitied him and looked down According to government data, 1,887 on him because of his life choices. He’s a very people overdosed on methamphetamine in intelligent, kind and creative person. Yet, all 2011 or 4.6% of all fatal overdoses. By 2016, anyone ever saw when they looked at him that number had risen to 6,762 or 10.6% of was either a hopeless case or a sex object.” all fatal overdoses.

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Chemsex The British Medical Journal describes “chemsex” as the intentional use of psychoactive drugs to facilitate marathon sex sessions with multiple partners. Crystal Meth forms the basis of “chemsex.” Some people into chemsex use it to manage negative feelings related to minority stress.

Crawford described the theme of the film

as redemptive, “with an uplifting tone.”

While Crawford advocates abstinence from meth, he believes that “It’s best to meet each person where they are at in their recovery and not to shame them if they are unable to maintain sobriety.”

Crawford and Fawcett wanted to show drug users, both current and in recovery, with respect, dignity, and understanding.

A

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Group and non-profit rates available.

All performances at Wilton Theater Factory, Main Stage, 2304 N Dixie HWY, Wilton Manors, FL 33305

NOV 14 - DEC 15, 2019 Tickets and Flexpasses are available online at www.islandcitystage.org or by calling 954-928-9800

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Datebook

Theater

November 27 - December 3

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Calendar@SFGN.com

* Denotes New Listing

broward county Gay Amnesia

November 15 to December 8 at Elliot Hall, 2501 NE 30th St., Ft. Lauderdale.

Relationships are tough, but when your partner forgets that he is gay, your life and love can be a real big headache. Tickets $25.

Visit Eventbrite.com for details.

West Side Story

November 4 to December 1 at the Lauderhill Performing Arts Center, 3800 NW 11th Pl, Lauderhill. West Side Story re-imagines Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet in 1950’s New York City. A bitter rivalry between gangs is forever altered by a forbidden love affair between the young couple Tony and Maria.

Tickets at LPACFL.com.

Friday Night Sound Waves Music Series

Fridays from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. at The Hub, Las Olas Boulevard and A1A in Fort Lauderdale. Enjoy live, outdoor music spanning genres and tributes every Friday evening through November. Free. Visit FridayNightSoundWaves.com

palm beach county *6th Annual Lynn Chamber Music Competition Finals

Thursday, December 5 at the AmarnickGoldstein Concert Hall, Lynn University.

Lynn’s chamber music program has gained national recognition through its partnership with the Lyric Chamber Music Society of New York, which presents the winning group of Lynn’s annual Chamber Music Competition in a New York debut recital at the Kosciuszko Foundation. Free to attend.

*17th Annual Gingerbread Holiday Concert

Sunday, December 8 at 3 p.m. at the Boca Raton Resort and Hotel, 501 E. Camino Real.

This concert attracts parents, grandparents and kids of all ages to enjoy holiday classics performed by the Lynn Philharmonia. The annual event raises scholarship funds for the Conservatory’s deserving and talented student musicians from all over the world.

Tickets $35.

Ordinary Americans

December 6 to December 29 at the Don & Ann Brown Theatre, 201 Clematis St, West

Some of the guests at a previous Friday Night Sound Waves Music Series enjoy free live outdoor music on the A1A in Fort Lauderdale. Visit FridayNightSoundWaves.com for more information. Photo via Friday Night Sound Waves, Facebook.

Palm Beach. Ordinary Americans pays tribute to an extraordinarily talented, innovative, and courageous artist and businesswoman, Gertrude Berg. Her television show fostered the idea that, regardless of who we are, where we come from, or how we worship, people are basically the same and fundamentally good. But then she and her wonderful, bighearted ensemble are threatened by the Red Scare, and life is never quite the same.

Tickets $52 to $92. Visit palmbeachdramaworks. org.

Free Friday Concerts

Fridays at 7:30 p.m. at the Delray Beach Center for the Arts, 51 N. Swinton Ave. in Delray Beach. Enjoy live music from the comfort of your picnic blanket or lawn chair every week, for free! Returns in October. Call 561-2437922 or visit DelrayArts. org.

miami-dade county

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Outdoor Music Series

Third Thursdays at the Perez Art Museum Miami, 101 W. Flagler St. in Miami. Come out for live music from DJs and musicians by the bay.

Drink specials available.

Free with museum admission. Call 305-3753000 or visit PAMM.org.

The Big Show

Fridays and Saturdays at 9 p.m. at Just the Funny Theater, 3119 Coral Way in Miami.

A collection of comedy mixing the likes of improvisation and sketches. Tickets $12. Call 305-693-8669 or visit JustTheFunny.com.

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If you want a really big dog, Gus (623366) is waiting to meet you. He is a 112 pound mastiff mix, who is all smiles and might drool a bit, but he wants a home to call his own. While Gus’s history is a bit of a mystery, we do know he will do best as an only furchild. Can this big fellow be part of your family?

The adoption fee for dogs over 6 months is $100 and felines over 6 months are $30. When you adopt from the Humane Society of Broward County the dogs and cats are spayed or neutered, microchipped, receive preliminary vaccinations, cats are feline leukemia tested, and dogs over 7 months are tested for heartworm. They also receive a flea/tick preventative, a 10-day limited health care plan from VCA Animal Hospitals, 30 days of Trupanion Pet Insurance and a bag of Purina ONE pet food. The HSBC opens daily at 10:30 and is located at 2070 Griffin Road, a block west of I-95. For more details call 954-989-3977 ext. 6. To see who else is looking for a home visit www.humanebroward.com.

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Call Now Michael Tublin, URG 561-703-5533 or miketherentalguy@aol.com Efficiency Apartment - Pvt Entrance, Patio, Parking, Dixie &14th Ct., A/C, Pet Considered, 1st, Last & Sec. $900. Inc Utilities. Call 954 629 4400 Fort Lauderdale 1/1 Rental - Updated 1 Bed/1 Bath, 2 blocks from Wilton Drive on NE 15th Street, Quiet 4-plex, New Kitchen with Granite Counter, Tile floors thru-out, Mini-split A/C in bedroom, Off street parking, Laundry, $1100/month, First, Last and Security to move-in, 954-815-2550.

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help wanted TIRED OF PUNCHING A CLOCK? - Yellow Cab of Broward has gently used hybrid vehicles waiting for you to drive. Earn between $1,500 - $2,000 per week. Be your own boss! Call us at: 954-727-7191

handyman HUSBAND FOR RENT - Is he procrastinating home repairs? He says he will do it tomorrow?? After the football game?? We fit right in - in the house or the yard, small or big jobs: tile, dry wall, paint, plumbing, roof leaks, broken furniture, irrigation, fences, and more! It doesn't cost to hassle us to see the work - so why wait? Neat, clean work for a reasonable price.

Call Haim at 954-398-3676, sidnalll@yahoo.com GREGG’S PAINTING - Interior/Exterior. Free estimates, great rates! Detail-oriented, friendly, reliable, punctual and neat! No job too small.

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piano WANT TO LEARN HOW TO PLAY THE PIANO? Learn from an experienced teacher. All levels and ages welcome. Learn to play classical, popular, jazz, or show tunes. Visit www.edwinchad.com or call 954826-9555 for more information.

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954-525-3344 www.clubftl.com Help Wanted!!! - Full-time Housekeeper at The Grand Resort and Spa. No Phone Calls Please!

Seeking a Full-time Housekeeper for an all-male, clothing optional resort. Must work weekends and holidays and have hotel/resort experience and references. Candidates should be efficient, detailed and dependable. Send resumes to jobs@grandresort.net GRAND RESORT AND SPA - The Spa at The Grand Resort is looking for a Licensed Massage Therapist for our day spa. Also looking for a Licensed Full Specialist. Waxing, nails (no fills, acrylic) simply buff or clear coat and a variety of facials. We’ll train you on our products and services. The right therapist and specialists can do well in our spa. We’ve been in business for 18 years and have received many awards. All equipment and materials are provided.

We receive guests from the resort we are located in, along with clients from neighboring hotels and guesthouses.

Commission and 100% of your gratuity. 3-4 days available for the right candidates.

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personals Seeking Relationship - Single White Male, 54, decent, nice appearance, seeks educated healthy mature black male top. Call or text Jeff @ 305.781.2122. Broward County area.

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954.530.4970 11.27.2019 •

49

Datebook

November 27 - December 3

Community Tucker Berardi

Calendar@SFGN.com

Broward Support Services PFLAG

Tuesdays in Fort Lauderdale, Coral Springs and Southwest Ranches. A support group for parents of LGBT youth 13 to 21. Free. Visit SunServeYouth.com for dates and locations.

SunServe Youth Group

Tuesdays and Thursdays in Fort Lauderdale, Southwest Ranches, Coral Springs and Hollywood. A support group and night of fun for LGBT youth 13 to 21. Free. Visit SunServeYouth.com for dates and times.

Survivor Support

First and third Wednesdays from 7 to 8:30 p.m. at the Broward Health Imperial Point Hospital cafeteria, 6401 N. Federal Highway in Fort Lauderdale. Find support from counselors and peers who have lost loved ones to suicide. Call the Florida Initiative for Suicide Prevention at 954-384-0344 or visit FISPOnline.org.

broward county *GLLN Holiday Party

Thursday, December 5 from 6 to 9 p.m. at Spencer’s Corner Bar, 2390 Wilton Dr, Wilton Manors. Enjoy free drink tickets and appetizers as well as some amazing prizes for ugliest holiday outfit/sweater. Get ready for a good festive time!

*Art of Wine and Food Series

Thursday, December 5 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the NSU Art Museum. Join us in a tasting of multiple sparkling wines to celebrate the holidays, with each wine being paired perfectly with small bites. And don’t forget to arrive early for a tour of your favorite exhibits!

Tickets $40, $30 for museum members.

Art After Stonewall

Sunday, November 30 at 11 a.m. at Florida International University, Please join SNMA Executive Director Hunter O’Hanian for a walk-through with the Chief Curator of the Patricia and Phillip Frost Art Museum, Amy Galpin, of FIU’s Art After Stonewall 1969 -1989. On exhibition until Sunday January 5, 2020. Limited spots, call 954-763-8565x1106 for details.

Safe T Support Group

Every Wednesday from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at SunServe, 2312 Wilton Dr, Wilton Manors. SunServe Mental Health Services & Midway Specialty Care Center Presents: SAFE T — a weekly drop in group for anyone

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who identifies as transgender and or gender variant. Visit SunServe.org/SafeT for details.

Nonbinary and Gender Variant Support Group

Every Thursday from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. at SunServe, 2312 Wilton Dr, Wilton Manors.

A group limited to self-identified gender marginalized & gender questioning peoples.

Gender marginalized includes cis-women, womxn, femmes, nonbinary, gender nonconforming, genderqueer, agender, trans & gender questioning. Learn more at SunServe. org/ENBY.

Trans-Scend Trans and Allies Spiritual Group

First Tuesday of every month from 8 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. at 1419 E Commercial Blvd, Ste B, Oakland Park. Enjoy spirituality, uplifting music, food, drinks and community!

palm beach *Diva’s Holiday Party

December 6, 2019 at the Lake Worth Playhouse, 713 Lake Avenue, Lake Worth.

Join your favorite Queens dressed as your favorite holiday divas performing songs, skits and more! Tickets available at lakeworthplayhouse.org.

Opening Ceremony of the AIDS Memorial Quilt

December 2 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the Compass Community Center, 201 N. Dixie

Hwy, Lake Worth Beach. This year’s theme is COMMUNITY as we recognize our role in ending the AIDS epidemic. To honor those we have lost to AIDS, Compass will observe World AIDS Day on Monday, December 2.

This year our display will include 30 Blocks of the Memorial AIDS Quilt. In addition, all panels on display will be requests from our community members.

Palm Beaches Prime Timers

Second Saturdays at 3 p.m. at Compass GLCC, 201 N. Dixie Highway in Lake Worth. An active fraternal and social organization dedicated to bring together mature gay and bisexual men for friendship, activities, support, and personal growth for the best times of our lives. Free. Call 561- 533-9699 or visit CompassGLCC.com.

Coffee Clatch at Compass

First Monday of each month from 10 a.m. to noon at Compass, 201 N. Dixie Hwy, Lake Worth. A social group focusing on the mature LGBT+ community in Palm Beach County, providing a relaxed environment for meeting friends, discussing interesting topics, and engaging in community projects. Free to attend, email joekolb@compassglcc.com for details.

Bisexual Support Group

Tuesdays from 6:30 to 8 p.m. at the Compass GLCC, 201 N. Dixie Highway in Lake Worth.

Share your thoughts with other members of the bisexual community, discuss issues, and address concerns in a safe environment.

Email marissa@compassglcc.com or visit CompassGLCC.com.

miami-dade Arsht Center Farmers Market

Mondays from 4 to 8 p.m. at the Parker and Vann Thomson Plaza for the Arts, 1300 Biscayne Blvd. in Miami. Purchase fresh food from local farmers, including fruits, vegetables, meats, prepared foods, as well as chefs, live music, and cooking demonstrations. Tickets $45 to $75. Free.

Visit ArshtCenter.org/en/Visit/Dining.

HIV Support Group

Wednesdays from 7 to 9 p.m. at South Beach AIDS Project, 1234 Washington Ave. Ste. 200 in Miami Beach. A support group for those

who are HIV positive. Free. Call 305-5354733, ext. 301 or email support@sobeaids.org.

Free Rapid HIV Testing

Mondays, Thursdays, and Fridays from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. at Latinos Salud, 555 Washington Ave. Suite 235 in Miami Beach.

Receive the results of your free, confidential HIV test in minutes. Call 305-397-8967 or visit LatinosSalud.org

key west The Tea Dance After Party

Sundays from 7 p.m. until close at Mangoes, 700 Duval St. Upstairs Ricky Ricardo Room.

Boogie the night away with a little help from delicious drinks, great music and free admission.

Comedy Key West

Thursday and Friday at 8:30 pm at the Bottlecap’s Blue Room, 1128 Simonton Street, Key West. Come enjoy drinks and jokes at the weekly comedy nights! Local talent sure to get you laughing is showcased each week.

Tickets $15 at the door. Visit comedykeywest. com

* Denotes New Listing

A LITTLE BIT OF FAITH AND

PRIDE ALL ARE WELCOME SFGN is here for you, no matter who — or what — keeps you going. Check out the Spirituality Section each week to stay in touch with your local religious LGBT community. The only requirement? Be yourself.

SEE MORE ONLINE AT SFGN.COM/TABLE/NEWS/RELIGION SFGN-postevent_4.875x5.45.pdf

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2:43 PM

PATRICIA & PHILLIP FROST ART MUSEUM FIU September 14, 2019 — January 5, 2020

C

M

Y

M

Y

Y

MY

K

Diana Davies, Untitled (Marsha P. Johnson Hands Out Flyers for Support of Gay Students At N.Y.U.), C. 1970, Digital print, 11 x 14 inches, Photo by Diana Davies/© The New York Public Library/Art Resource, NY

10975 SW 17th St., Miami, FL 33199 | frost.fiu.edu | 305.348.2890

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