CHECK OUT THE latest
local name global coverage
Begins after page 10
november 20, 2019 vol. 10 // issue 47
WMG
This time, Terry needs
YOU Community rallies for terry DeCarlo page 6
SouthFloridaGayNews
@SFGN
f o t s e IT’S TIME! B 2019
SFGN.com
find out inside who you picked as your favorites this year
2
•
1 1 .20.2019
NEWS local SFGN File Photo.
Wednesday is the Transgender Day of Remembrance Check Out These Local Events
Denise Royal
O
n Wednesday, communities across South Florida will honor and remember the memory of the transgender lives taken due to anti-trans violence. According to a report released by the human rights monitoring group Transrespect versus Transphobia, at least 30 transgender people were killed in the United States this year. Two, Bee Love and Kiki Fantroy, were murdered in South Florida. They will be remembered during Transgender Day of Remembrance (TDOR) ceremonies. TDOR observances take place on Nov. 20. “TDOR is a day to memorialize those who are murdered as a result of transphobia,” said Tatiana Williams, Co-Director TransInclusive at the Pride Center. “It is a day to draw attention to the continued violence endured by the transgender community.”
The annual TDOR event begins at the Pride Center in Wilton Manors at 7 p.m. this Wednesday at the Schubert Building Main Auditorium. Barry University in Miami hosts its seventh annual Transgender Day of Remembrance and Resilience on Wednesday from 6 p.m. to 9 pm. Attendees are asked to RSVP on the Facebook events page, so organizers have an accurate headcount. You can find it here: https://www.facebook. com/events/559214261539848/ Barry University is located in Miami at11300 NE 2nd Avenue. The event takes place in Andreas 111 across the street from the Landon Hall parking lot.
Compass in Lake Worth is moving its TDOR ceremony to Belle Glade, where Bee Love lived. Love’s family will be part of the event. It runs from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the Dolly Hand Cultural Arts Center at1977 SW College Drive in Belle Glade. A bus to take those who cannot otherwise get out to Belle Glade will be leaving Compass at 4:30 p.m. sharp on Nov. 20. Seats are free, but they are limited. If you would like to take the bus, please go to CompassRemembers.eventbrite.com and register.
11.20.2019 •
3
NEWS highlight
SouthFloridaGayNews.com
Chick-fil-A Will No Longer Donate to Anti-LGBT Organizations Jordan Valinsky CNN Business
Cover: Terry DeCarlo. Photo via Facebook.
Associated Press
4
•
1 1 .20.2019
2520 N. Dixie Highway • Wilton Manors, FL 33305 Phone: 954-530-4970 Fax: 954-530-7943
Publisher • Norm Kent Norm.Kent@sfgn.com
CEO • Pier Angelo Guidugli piero@sfgn.com
Associate Publisher / Executive Editor • Jason Parsley Jason.Parsley@sfgn.com
Editorial
C
hick-fil-A is making major changes to its charitable foundation, ending donations to two organizations that have been criticized for being anti-LGBTQ. The fast food chain announced Monday that beginning next year it will only donate to a certain group of charities. That list no longer includes the Salvation Army and the Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA). Both organizations have taken controversial A kiss in front of Chick-Fil-A during a 2012 stands on homosexuality and same-sex protest. Photo credit: Elvert Barnes, via Flickr. marriage. In 2018, the Chick-fil-A foundation donated The organization said it believes it is $1.65 million to the FCA and $115,000 to The Salvation Army, the company revealed the largest provider of poverty relief to the LGBTQ+ population. Monday. “When misinformation is perpetuated The FCA writes in its employee application that “neither heterosexual sex outside of without fact, our ability to serve those marriage nor any homosexual act constitute in need, regardless of sexual orientation, an alternative lifestyle acceptable to God.” gender identity, religion or any other factor, It also states on its website that “marriage is is at risk,” the Salvation Army said. “We urge the public to seek the exclusively the union of one truth before rushing to illman and one woman.” FCA did “No informed judgment and greatly not respond to CNN Business’ appreciate those partners and request for comment. organization donors who ensure that anyone The Salvation Army has will be who needs our help feels safe said in the past that the Bible excluded and comfortable to come forbids sexual intimacy between through our doors.” from future members of the same sex, that Going forward, Chick-fil-A gay Christians should embrace consideration said it will work exclusively celibacy and that scripture — faith-based with organizations that focus does not support same-sex or non-faithon education, homelessness marriages, according to Snopes. and hunger. Those are Junior However, the Salvation Army based.” Achievement USA, Covenant says its services are available to - Tim Tassopoulos House International and all people, and the organization President of Chick-Fil-A donating $25,000 local food strongly refutes accusations that banks. it is anti-LGBTQ. “No organization will be excluded from “We’re saddened to learn that a corporate partner has felt it necessary to divert funding future consideration — faith-based or to other hunger, education and homelessness non-faith-based,” said Tim Tassopoulos, organizations — areas in which the Salvation president and chief operating officer of Army, as the largest social services provider Chick-fil-A, in a statement. But that leaves in the world, is already fully committed,” the open the opportunity that it could donate to foundations in the future that might hold Salvation Army said in a statement.
@SFGN
November 20, 2019 • Volume 10 • Issue 47
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
Senior Features Correspondents anti-LGBTQ views. Chick-fil-A’s donations and comments from its executives have sparked controversy over the past several years. CEO Dan Cathy said in 2012 that the company supports “the biblical definition of the family unit.” In a 2018 interview with a local Atlanta TV station, Cathy reiterated his position on same-sex marriage but said he’s not anti-gay. Gay rights organization GLAAD said in a statement that Chick-fil-A customers and employees should “greet today’s announcement with cautious optimism” but says the company still has a checkered policy when it comes to LGBTQ rights. “In addition to refraining from financially supporting anti-LGBTQ organizations, Chick-fil-A still lacks policies to ensure safe workplaces for LGBTQ employees and should unequivocally speak out against the anti-LGBTQ reputation that their brand represents,” said Drew Anderson, GLAAD’s director of campaigns and rapid response. The Georgia-based company is increasingly expanding into more liberal areas. It recently opened restaurants in New York City. Since it’s privately held, sales figures aren’t public but recent research found that Chick-fil-A generated $9 billion in sales in 2017. One estimate points to $10.5 billion in sales in 2018, according to Nation’s Restaurants News.
Jesse Monteagudo
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 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
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.
Hosted Group of LGBT Travelers
5 Nights - 19th Annual
from $1125 pp
Halloween Cruise
Oct 30, 2020 - Nov 4, 2020
VIRGIN VOYAGES - Scarlet Lady
Book by December 31, 2019 & receive up to $400 Shipboard Credit!
Departing Roundtrip from Miami, Florida. Visiting: Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic; The Beach Club on Bimini Island, & 2-days at sea More Aquafest Value! - 2 VIP Private Open Bar Cocktail Parties Private Halloween Contest With $1000 in Prizes - Guest Celebrity Entertainer Red, White, and Blue Theme Parties With Costume Prizes - Evening Social Gatherings Private Optional Excursion in Puerto Plata - Aquafest “A” Team Hosts
e Mor s: r Offe Kenya, Africa - South Africa - Burgundy/Provence - Christmas Markets
Danube - Egypt - Jordan - India - Japan - Machu Picchu - Amazon - Scandinavia
(800) 592-9058 - AquafestCruises.com 11.20.2019 •
5
NEWS local
Coming together as one LGBT community embraces terry decarlo Pulse Spokesman and advocate battles cancer diagnosis Damon Scott
T
he LGBT community came out in force to Wilton Manors Nov. 18 to raise money for Terry DeCarlo.
DeCarlo is the well-known former “We’re working our way through the executive director of the LGBT+ Center woods,” he said. “One day I’m up and Orlando who led the organization in the everything is great, the next day it’s wow all aftermath of the Pulse Nightclub tragedy. He of the sudden I’m losing hearing in my left left Orlando in 2018. ear. It’s been a roller coaster.” The 57-year-old activist and philanthropist His husband of 22 years, Bill Huelsman, is known outside of Orlando, too. He’s said he has “very good doctors” who said worked at Care Resource Community Health DeCarlo has a “very good outlook” with his Centers, assisting on events like the White forthcoming aggressive treatment. Party and AIDS Walk Miami and is the Meanwhile, all the time spent at Holy former development director Cross Hospital, the Memorial at Broward House. Cancer Institute and in DeCarlo is currently the various doctor’s offices has “He’s done so communications manager for increased health care much in the name meant Broward County Government, costs, time away from work but he hasn’t been able to and dwindling resources. of LGBTQ, in the work much lately. DeCarlo said while his name of HIV and DeCarlo was diagnosed employer has been very this year with stage four neck AIDS, in the name supportive, he’s quickly and face cancer. The cancer burning through his vacation of anything that was discovered after a trip days, sick days and family to the dentist, necessitated has to do with our leave time. when his mouth had started In addition, Huelsman said community.” bleeding after brushing his he’s been doing his best to teeth. Within weeks, DeCarlo keep a normal work schedule, - Nikki Adams was undergoing a 10-hour but that there have naturally Drag Queen surgery to remove the bulk of been missed work days for a tumor and start the process him as well. of rebuilding his face and jaw. Huelsman works at the Michael Murphy To complicate matters, DeCarlo had to photo studio in Fort Lauderdale. endure a second procedure for a ruptured intestine. It equaled two major surgeries Community response within a two week period. “I’ve been home for six days out of the past DeCarlo’s demeanor instantly brightens six weeks,” DeCarlo said. when he talks about how his friends and the He’s now facing recovery time, radiation community have responded to his situation. and recurring courses of chemotherapy. “They’ve really turned out and been DeCarlo said he has up days and down supportive … really rallying behind us,” he days. said.
For more, go to GoFundMe.com/f/terry-decarlo. 6
•
1 1 .20.2019
Shown: the fundraising effort for Terry DeCarlo at The Pub.
One of the couple’s friends, Brett Rose, recently started a GoFundMe page to help DeCarlo and Huelsman defray some expenses. As of press time, more than $10,000 had been raised out of a $50,000 goal. The Pub in Wilton Manors, located at 2283 Wilton Drive, stepped in and joined forces with venerable drag queen Nikki Adams for Nov. 18 recent fundraiser. Adams put together a line up of performers who donated their tips and Howard Andrew organized a silent auction with multiple donors who gave prizes, trips and more. As the emcee for the night, she kicked off the festivities with a performance of Journey’s song: “Don’t Stop Believing.” “We are here to raise some money for a very important person in our community,” Adams said. “He’s done so much in the name of LGBTQ, in the name of HIV and AIDS, in the name of anything that has to do with our community. He’s been a driving force behind it for many, many, many years.”
DeCarlo was not able to attend, but was broadcast on the venue’s TV screens via FaceTime. When he appeared the crowd cheered loudly. “Can you feel the love in the room Terry?” Adams said. “This one’s for you sweetie!” Huelsman said about $6,500 was raised at the event. Pulse memorial DeCarlo mentioned that he’s been able to stay connected with developments in Orlando through all the surgeries and treatment. He was able to recently look over the winning design for the National Pulse Memorial and Museum. “It’s absolutely beautiful – it’s something that will memorialize all 49 victims and the 53 who were injured,” he said. “When we’re not here 100 years from now, something needs to tell the story. This is it.”
11.20.2019 •
7
Palm beach datebook Art After Dark Fridays from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. at the Norton Museum of Art, 1450 S. Dixie Hwy, West Palm Beach View an exhibition, attend a talk, participate in an art activity, enjoy a performance, concert, or film, sip cocktails, and dine in the Museum’s elegant new bar and restaurant. Free admission. Visit Norton.org. 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. STD Testing and Flu Vaccinations First Thursdays from 3 to 6 p.m. at Compass GLCC, 201 N. Dixie Highway in Lake Worth The Department of Health comes monthly. Call 561-533-9699 or visit CompassGLCC.com. 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 561-243-7922 or visit DelrayArts.org. 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 at-tend, email joekolb@compassglcc.com fir details. Transcendence Meets at Compass GLCC, 201 N. Dixie Highway in Lake Worth A closed transgender youth support group for teens ages 12 to 19. For more information, email youth@ compassglcc.com.
8
•
1 1 .20.2019
P A LM B E A CH
news
Compass’ Photo Club
Hosts First Exhibition Deon C. Jefferson
Photo via Compass Photo Club, Facebook.
T
his year has brought several new programs and activities for Compass, the LGBT community center of the Palm Beaches, including the Photo Club’s first ever Click Photo Exhibition which was held last week in the Alfred Fiandaca Community Ballroom. This past year, Compass offered three Introduction to Photography classes and two master classes, which were all taught by Compass’ own photographer Wayne Lefkowitz. The exhibit hosted a “People’s Choice” competition, where attendees could vote on best overall artwork by paying a fee — the entirety of which went to Compass’ programming and services. “This photo class brought the community together for an event other than a memorial, a health expo, or even politics,” Lefkowitz said. “It furthers adult education and exposes more people to the arts.” The ballroom was decorated with photos from several members of the class. There were 14 photo submissions that were judged and an array of anonymous classroom assignments. West Palm Beach
The exhibit hosted a “People’s Choice” competition, where attendees could vote on best overall artwork by paying a fee — the entirety of which went to Compass’ programming and services.
artist Rolando Chang Barrero was the official judge. Members of the community as well as friends of Compass made up the class. The artwork included photos like “Threads of Pain” by DeDe Dehon, “Storm Warning” by Compass Chief Information Officer Claudia Harrison, “Pink Frills” by Riva Jimenez and “After the Dance” by James Baxter. Baxter walked away with an honorable mention, Alicia Lewis won second place and “People’s Choice.” Ashley Leibowitz was the first place winner while Joseph Kolb won “Best in Show,” which had over 45 entries. “I have to say: I was completely overwhelmed by the amount of people who came out to support my classmates, myself and Wayne’s Photography Classes’ Art Show,” said Palm Beach County native and attendee Alicia Lewis. “I’m still on a
high from being surrounded by all that love.” As the night closed, Lefkowitz had nothing but good things to say about his photography students. “In a way, I feel like … I’m sending my graduates into the real world,” he said. “I trust that they will remember everything I shared with them and to always trust what I call the ‘Holy Trinity’: the eyes, the brain, and the heart.” Students also talked about all the benefits they received from participating in Lefkowitz’s classes and entering their art for competition. “I was over the moon when I won second place.” Lewis said. “Then to win People’s Choice, that just blew me away. Wayne’s photography class at Compass is wonderful … I met people I didn’t know and became fast friends.”
NEWS local
Harvest Fest is a Thanksgiving Celebration for Trans Community at Pride Center TransInclusive at the Pride Center. Photo via TransInclusive, Facebook.
Denise Royal
I
t’s difficult to feel alone during the holidays. That’s especially true for transgender people who may be detached or separated from their families. If that sounds familiar, the Pride Center has a solution. Harvest Fest is a potluck dinner for transgender individuals and their allies who may not have a place to celebrate Thanksgiving or a family with whom to dine. It’s a safe space for those individuals to share and celebrate the holiday in the company of others like them. Allies, supportive friends, and family members are also welcome to have a seat at the table. “In honor of Thanksgiving, Transinclusive Group creates a safe and welcoming space for the LGBTQA community to break bread,” said Tatiana Williams, Co-Director
A/C RECHARGE
$3999
+ tax
Evacuate and recharge system. Up to 1 lb. of Freon. Most cars.
OIL CHANGE SPECIAL
BRAKE PADS & SHOES
$1495 $3999
$9999
+ tax
Full Synthetic Oil Change
(per axle)
+ tax
+ tax
Lifetime Parts Warranty, FREE Brake Inspections. Install New Wagner Thermo-Quiet Brake Pads. Most cars.
up to 5 quarts of oil. Most cars. Includes FREE Tire Rotation & Balance Check.
No Credit Check! Financing Available
954-462-7560
FT. LAUDERDALE
901 N. Andrews Ave.
www.meineke.com
We Believe You
TransInclusive at the Pride Center. “Our annual Harvest Fest is a time when the transgender/GNC community and allies come together and share space in solidarity and support.” Attendees are asked to bring a dish for sharing. If you cannot afford a dish, you are still welcome.
Harvest Fest takes place on Thursday, November 21 at 7 p.m. at the Pride Center in Building B. It’s the day after the Transgender Day of Remembrance. The Pride Center is located at 2040 N Dixie Highway, Wilton Manors, FL 33305.
Palm Beach County Victim Services & Certified Rape Crisis Center offers free and confidential services to all victims in a Safe environment. Regardless of your gender, gender identity, race, sexual orientation or whether you report or not, the following services are available: • 24 hour crisis response to hospitals, law enforcement agencies, and the crime scene • Certified Victim Advocates to support you • Criminal Justice advocacy and court accompaniment • Individual therapy and support groups • Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner (SANE) and forensic exam site- “The Butterfly House” • Information and referral to community resources
Call our 24-hour, free and confidential helpline:
Local: (561) 833-7273 Toll Free: (866) 891-7273
This project was supported by Grant No. 2017-WE-AX-0034 awarded by the Office of Violence Against Women, U.S. Department of Justice. The opinions, findings, conclusions, and recommendations expressed in this publication/program/exhibition are those of the author (s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of the Department of Justice, Office on Violence Against Women.
Medical • Surgical • Aesthetic Specialists
Same-day appointments reserved with Eric C. Wilkerson, MD, FAAD
1289 West Island Club Square Vero Beach, FL 32963
Board-Certified Dermatologist Fellowship-Trained Mohs Surgeon Fellowship-Trained Cosmetic Dermatologist
$825,000
Providing an exceptional patient experience to those seeking a distinctive level of dermatologic care.
• River and Intracoastal Views • 4 Bedroom plus Den, 3 ½ Bath • High Ceilings • Crown Moldings • Open Floor Plan • Huge Master Suite • Screened Pool and Spa • HOA Fees include lawn care tennis, 2 clubhouses, pools, fitness, day dock, deeded beach access
Billero & Billero Properties Gene Billero, Broker
20% off
all cosmetic procedures !* Expires 11/3 0/19
Skin Cancer Screenings • General Dermatology Botox • Chemical Peels • Fillers PRP Hair Restoration • Microneedling
Cell: 772-532-0011 BilleroProperties.com
FORT LAUDERDALE DERMATOLOGY DR. ERIC WILKERSON
954.546.3376
2021 E. Commercial Blvd., Suite 301 Fort Lauderdale, FL 33308
FORTLAUDERDALEDERM.COM *Does not apply to packages and cannot be combined.
THE PATIENT AND ANY OTHER PERSON RESPONSIBLE FOR PAYMENT HAS A RIGHT TO REFUSE TO PAY, CANCEL PAYMENT, OR BE REIMBURSED FOR PAYMENT FOR ANY OTHER SERVICE, EXAMINATION, OR TREATMENT THAT IS PERFORMED AS A RESULT OF AND WITHIN 72 HOURS OF RESPONDING TO THE ADVERTISEMENT FOR THE FREE, DISCOUNTED FEE, OR REDUCED FEE SERVICE, EXAMINATION, OR TREATMENT.
11.20.2019 •
9
NEWS white house watch
Governor In, Governor Out Democratic race fluid as Deval Patrick tests the waters
John McDonald
A
Your smile should leave a great impression!
Celebrating our 10th Year on Wilton Drive!
New Patients
$69 ($312 Value)
Comprehensive Exam, Digital X-Rays & Cleaning* *In the absense of gum disease. Not applicable to insurance benefits.
General & Cosmetic Dentistry State of the Art Facilities • Most Insurances Accepted Always Plenty of Free Parking • Located Conveniently on Wilton Drive
954-565-7666 Dr. David K. Warner, DDS, FAGD 1946 Wilton Drive • Wilton Manors • FL 33305 www.IslandCitySmiles.com 10
•
1 1.20.2019
former Massachusetts Governor jumped in and a former South Carolina Governor parachuted out. This week’s U.S. Presidential campaign continues to operate under the cloud of the impeachment hearings in Washington. The Democratic field welcomed another entry as Deval Patrick, Massachusetts Governor from 2007 to 2015, announced his intentions to seek the party’s nomination. “This time is more than about removing an unpopular and divisive leader, as important as that is, but about delivering instead for you,” Patrick said in his campaign announcement video released Nov. 14. U.S. Senator Cory Booker of New Jersey told the Boston Globe he sees the Democratic campaign as fluid. “This is America and I love my country and this is a competitive primary where people have every right to jump into the race,” said Booker who will take the debate stage in Atlanta on Wednesday with nine other Democratic contenders. Patrick’s entry makes 17 major Democratic candidates competing for the nomination three months before the first votes are cast in Iowa. A recent poll by CNN, Mediacom and the Des Moines Register showed South Bend, Indiana Mayor Pete Buttigieg with the lead in the Hawkeye state. Meanwhile, on Nov. 12, Mark Sanford, a former Congressman and Governor of South Carolina called off his campaign for the Republican party’s nomination. In a farewell speech in Charleston, S.C., Sanford said America is “sleepwalking our way into the most predictable financial crisis in the history of man” and conceded his campaign was a “long shot” to wrestle the GOP nomination away from President Donald Trump. Trump spent last week attacking former Ukrainian Ambassador Marie Yovanovitch on Twitter. Yovanovitch testified during last week’s impeachment hearings on Capitol Hill. New York Congressman Sean Maloney,
Deval Patrick. Photo via Facebook.
a gay man, thanked Yovanovitch for her service. “You were the first one through that stone wall that the President was trying to set up, and I just want to thank you for that because others have followed your example, and there’s an old expression that first person through the wall gets a little bit bloody,” Maloney said.
LGBT NOTES: SFGN caught up with Miami Beach Commission candidate Jonathan Welsh last week to get his reaction to the city’s elections. At last count, Welsh, a healthcare communications specialist, received 655 votes in the city’s group five commission election. A first-time candidate, Welsh said he is much more knowledgeable about Miami Beach because of the political process and enjoyed the meaningful conversations and authentic interactions he had on the campaign trail. Group 5 Commissioner Ricky Arriola and Racquel Pacheco advanced to this week’s run-off election. Also in Miami Beach, former Florida Representative David Richardson is in a run-off for the commission seat in group six. Results of the election were unavailable when this column went to press.
White House Watch is a weekly column taking a look at the state of the 2020 presidential election.
WMG Volume 6 • Issue 22 November 20, 2019
Wilton Manors Gazette Facebook.com/groups/WMGazette
community
Wilton Manors Shines Spotlight on Trans Community The proclamation names Nov. 20 as Transgender Remembrance Day By Sallie James When Rajee Narinesingh accepted a city proclamation declaring Nov. 20 as “Transgender Remembrance Day,” her voice cracked with emotion. The proclamation, presented at the Nov. 12 City Commission meeting, also pronounced Nov. 13-19 as Transgender Awareness Week. “My prayer is that what the (LGBT) flags represents is truly the reality for our community,” said Narinesingh, a transgender activist who was targeted and brutally beaten in 2002. “I am so thankful to God that I lived to see these better days. I’ve been able to see these better days for transgender people here in this county. We’ve come a long way but we have a long way to go.” The pink, blue and white transgender flag has been flying at Jaycee Park for the past week, and will continue flying through the Nov. 20.
The Transgender Day of Remembrance Service will be from 7 to 9 p.m. on Nov. 20 at the Schubert Building at the Pride Center, at 2040 N. Dixie Highway. The public is invited to attend. Twentytwo transgender people have been killed nationally in 2019 to date, Narinesingh said. According to the proclamation, the Transgender Day of Remembrance is set aside “to memorialize those who lost their lives due to anti-transgender hatred or prejudice and to help raise visibility of people who are transgender, gender nonconforming, and perceived to be transgender.” “It’s the day we honor our fallen. These trans people who were killed because of who they are paid the ultimate price,” Narinesingh said. “The trans community deals with so many injustices regarding employment, housing, healthcare, health
The pink, blue and white transgender flag has been flying at Jaycee Park for the past week, and will continue flying through the Nov. 20.
insurance and just maneuvering around our community.” Wednesday’s keynote speaker Tatiana Williams, a black trans woman, said events like the remembrance service offer an important chance for community members to share stories that highlight the risks faced by transgender people. Williams said a close transgender friend was fatally shot in 1999 in front of her. Her friend’s murder, along with the deaths of a few other acquaintances, were never solved, she said. “Nothing happened. Their deaths were not investigated. It was like their lives didn’t matter,” Williams said. “Things are a little better today. Now you can get an officer to at least look at the case.” Wilton Manors began flying the transgender flag on certain occasions in 2017. In March 2017, the City Commission voted unanimously to fly the transgender flag on International Transgender Day of Visibility (March 31), Transgender Flag Day (Aug. 19), Transgender Day of Remembrance (Nov. 20), and the week of the city’s Stonewall Festival in June. In her speech to the City Commission
on Nov. 12, Narinesingh noted that Wilton Manors has declined to fly the transgender flag year round. “I think it’s been two occasions where the request was turned down,” she said on Nov. 12. “I understand why. Because we have an LGBT flag, our rainbow flag, that represents the unification of our community. I’m one of the trans people in the community who understands why that flag is supposed to be enough for us.” WMG
• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • www.WMGAZETTE.com • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •1 1 11.20.2019 •
Opinion
WMG Comfortably Numb President Trump is Coming to Broward; Where Are the Protests?
2520 N. Dixie Highway • Wilton Manors, FL 33305 Phone: 954-530-4970 Fax: 954-530-7943
By Sal Torre Photo via Pixabay.
Hey you, out there in Broward County, can you hear me? Donald Trump is coming to the heart of Democratic Florida on Nov. 26 for a Homecoming Rally. Really? A Trump Homecoming Rally here in Broward County? This is not the Villages or some other Republican bastion in our state. This is Broward County, the Democratic stronghold of Florida. Yet I hear no talk of protest, demonstrations, or blocking streets to the BB&T Center. Perhaps we have all become comfortably numb, in some sort of drugged state of social media overload, no longer able to realize what is actually taking place in our community and in the world around us. Yellow Jackets in France, daily protests in Hong Kong, Lebanese families turning out to protest government corruption, all lending a view that there is a growing movement worldwide. People are starting to demand their fair share of what currently flows more and more only to the wealthy 1 percent. These County, and I hear no calls for action. Have we protests are demanding better services, retreated into a fantasy world where listening better education for their children, better to the Racheal Maddow Show or posting healthcare, higher wages, a better quality of opposition statements on social media offers a daily relief valve to the mounting insanity? life, and a better tomorrow. Many are baffled as to why there has not We might be fooling ourselves into thinking that if only we make it to the been a robust, organized next election, everything will and vocal protest be OK. I will be out movement here in the U.S. Have we somehow masked We see major grassroot in Sunrise on the trauma and pain of the support for leaders such as Tuesday, Nov. Trump presidency? Have we Elizabeth Warren, Bernie become comfortably numb, Sanders and Alexandria 26 to show no longer able to respond, Ocasio-Cortez. support with no longer able to see what is However, we see no happening, no longer able to massive demonstrations fellow South act? when this President Floridians that When Congressman Allen takes us out of the Paris West was invited to speak Donald Trump Agreement tossing years here in Wilton Manors years of work on global warming and his clan of ago, there was a very large, out the window, when bullies are not organized, and vocal response he tears up car emission from our community clearly guidelines, or has his welcome here. stating that such a divisive criminal associates go hatemonger and bigot was not around the world making illegal deals with oligarchs, plays with our welcome here in our community. Community military on a whim, locks up innocent leaders came together, mobilized and sent a children and criminalizes people looking strong message that our values, our beliefs, and our community would not be lessened for a better life. by such an individual. Yet where are the protests? Now we have a President who can be And now this. A Homecoming Event for Donald Trump right here in Broward described as Allen West on steroids. Trump’s
November 20, 2019 • Volume 6 • Issue 22
Publisher • Norm Kent norm.kent@sfgn.com Chief Executive Officer • Pier Angelo Guidugli piero@sfgn.com Associate publisher / Executive Editor • Jason Parsley jason.parsley@sfgn.com Copyeditor • Kerri Covington
Editorial
Art Director • Brendon Lies artwork@sfgn.com News Editor • Sallie James
Correspondents
Sal Torre • James Oaksun
Staff Photographers
J.R. Davis • Carina Mask • Steven Shires
Sales & Marketing For ad placement in the Wilton Manors Gazette, contact 954-530-4970
Sales Manager • Justin Wyse justin.wyse@sfgn.com Advertising Sales Associate • Edwin Neimann edwin.neimann@sfgn.com Advertising Sales Associate • Clark Rogers clark.rogers@sfgn.com
words, actions, criminal behavior and total disregard for decency make Allen West look like a sweetheart. This man is coming into our community here in South Florida to what his social media peddlers have called a Homecoming Event. A Homecoming implies the act of coming home, welcoming back someone by those who consider the person as one of their own, a cheerful and heartfelt outpouring of sentiment, a celebration. I am having a hard time believing that this is the message we want to send out to the world on Tuesday, November 26. The BB&T Center in Sunrise holds 19,000 people. We have the ability to demonstrate that Donald Trump is not welcome here in South Florida. Let us turn this so-called homecoming into a show of what the residents of Broward truly demand and want from our President and other elected officials. I will be out in Sunrise on Tuesday, Nov. 26 to show support with fellow South Floridians that Donald Trump and his clan of bullies are not welcome here. Hopefully, you will join us. Only by standing up for what we believe, ready to protect our values of decency and the rule of law, and to face down bullies shall we continue to make life just better here. WMG
Accounting Services by CG Bookkeeping 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. MEMBER
MEMBER
Associated Press MEMBER
MEMBER
Copyright © 2019 South Florida Gay News.com, Inc.
Photo via the City of Wilton Manors, Facebook.
• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • www.WMGAZETTE.com • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • 12
•
1 1.20.2019
2 •
November 20, 2019
Photos
Taste Of The Island By J.R. Davis
On Monday, November 18 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m., Richardson Historic Park was transformed into a food paradise as guests were treated to a chance to taste and celebrate the many delicacies found throughout Wilton Manors.
The Pub.
Ethos Greek Bistro.
To see more photos and news from WMG, join us at Facebook.com/groups/WMGazette
3 •
November 20, 2019
11.20.2019 •
13
All
FAITH & PRIDE spirituality
Souls’ Epi copal Church
All Are Welcome! SERVICES SUNDAY AT 8 A.M. & 10:30 A.M.
Souls’ Epi copal All
Church
GRATITUDE and GIVING Father Bob Caudill-Patton All Saints Catholic Mission
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. Rev. Rick Rhen-Sosbe, Pastor
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 The 2nd Saturday of every month $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
14
•
1 1.20.2019
H
ave you ever seen a woman sleeping on a park bench and wondered how did that happen? Have you ever seen a guy with a military jacket asking for a handout on the corner? Have you ever seen a tent in a park with children inside and wondered if they were living there? Have you ever seen a large parking lot with vehicles parked there all night? It’s homelessness. According to the National Alliance to End Homelessness, on any given night in 2018 there were approximately 552,830 people in the United States experiencing homelessness. And there are millions more who live paycheck to paycheck, just one emergency away from being homeless. It can happen in a moment. In one moment you can have a job and apartment, and then fall victim to an illness that wipes out your bank account and the extras you have. Without outside help you could be homeless, hungry and cut off. And
homelessness is so much more than just “doing without”. It is accompanied by deep loneliness, depression, fear and a feeling that no one cares. All Saints Catholic Mission Soup Kitchen was started by someone coming to my door late in the evening asking for food. I don’t cook but I can make a mean PBJ sandwich and a soda. The Soup Kitchen now feeds 100200 daily, and provides showers, clothes, shoes, medicines and temporary housing to those in need. It’s not a permanent fix, but it sure makes people feel that someone cares about them. Don’t kid yourself, some of our LGBT brothers and sisters also experience homelessness. This holiday season, please consider what you can do to help those in our community who are less fortunate. Think about all you have to be grateful for, and just give a little of your time or a little of your resources to help those in need. Put your gratitude into action!
All Saints Catholic Mission is located 3460 Powerline Road. The Soup Kitchen provides free meals every day from 2 – 3:30. Thanksgiving meals will be served from 10 - 3pm on BOTH Thanksgiving Day and Friday Nov. 29th. To donate food or clothing items contact Father Bob at 954-801-8283 or frbicc@aol.com
find out inside who you picked as your favorites this year
f o t s e B 2019
Read and share online! sfgn.com/bestof2019
Best Bar Best Restaurant Best Drag Queen Best NEIGHBORHOOD Best Burger And More!
Best Of 2019
INTRO
SouthFloridaGayNews.com
SFGN’s 2019 Best Of
Best Of South Florida • 2019 2520 N. Dixie Highway Wilton Manors, FL 33305 Phone: 954-530-4970 Fax: 954-530-7943
And the winners are... I
n September we asked our readers to vote for their favorite restaurants, hangouts, and charities — from your favorite burgers and desserts to the Best Attorney, Business and Realtor. We received more than 9,000 votes in more than 100 categories. The contest was a two-step process. The nominees were chosen by you and the staff in August and then in September you voted on the top 5 in each category. Each year we divide the contest up by county, giving our readers in Palm Beach County, Miami-Dade, and Key West a chance to vote for their local favorites and to showcase LGBT friendly establishments outside of
Publisher • Norm Kent
Norm.Kent@sfgn.com Chief Executive Officer Pier Angelo Guidugli Associate publisher / Executive Editor Jason Parsley jason.parsley@sfgn.com
Broward County and the Wilton Manors area. Remember folks these are your opinions — not ours. Don’t agree with the winners? Well then make sure to vote in next year’s contest. Only those votes that came with valid email addresses were counted and duplicates were discarded. Due the growth of the contest we’re no longer able to print all of the stories in the paper. Advertisers were given priority. But you can still read them online at SFGN.com/BestOf2019. So without any further ado here are this year’s winners…
Editorial Art Director Brendon Lies Artwork@sfgn.com Digital Content Director Justin Musial Webmaster@sfgn.com Arts/Entertainment Editor JW Arnold jw@prdconline.com Social Media Manager • Tucker Berardi tberardi@ufl.edu
Sales & Marketing Sales Manager Justin Wyse Justin@sfgn.com Senior Advertising Associate Edwin Neimann Edwin@sfgn.com
— Jason Parsley
Senior Advertising Associate Clark Rogers Clark@sfgn.com Office Assistant Nick Adkins Distribution Services Rocky Bowell Sales Consultant Charles A. Reid
f o t Bes 2019
National Advertising Rivendell Media 212-242-6863 sales@rivendellmedia.com Accounting Services by CG Bookkeeping Printing by Sun Coast Press Copyright © 2019 South Florida Gay News.com, Inc.
Thanks to all of our contributors for this special issue... Rick Karlin
Jesse Monteagudo
John McDonald
Kristen Grau
Sean McShee Denise Royal Damon Scott
John Porter Donald Cavanaugh
J.W. Arnold
Deon Jefferson
Justin Musial
Carina Mask
Photos via Facebook unless otherwise stated.
2
SFGN.COM // Best Of LGBT South Florida • Fall 2019
Be2s0t19of
Best Social Group Bes0t16of Bes0t17of Bes0t18of Bes0t19of 2
2
2
2
BEARS OF SOUTH FLORIDA
SOCIAL GATHERINGS WITH A
CHARITABLE PURPOSE Pool Parties • Special Events Dinners • Theater • Movies Bowling • Excursions Stonewall Pride
JOIN US!
BOSFL.ORG TheBearsOfSouthFlorida Be2s0t19of
Fall 2019 • Best Of LGBT South Florida // SFGN.COM
3
Best Of 2019
FOOD
broward county
Best Dessert & Coffee Shop Stork’s Bakery
6
time winner!
2505 NE 15th Ave, Wilton Manors
Sometimes the competition is not even a fair fight, such as in this category. How can any place else hope to win when Stork’s does desserts so perfectly? “Storks is home to my favorite cake in all of the land. The chocolate decadence cake. It is an amazing chocolate flourless cake that is extremely rich and will satisfy any chocolate lovers dream,” one reviewer on Yelp writes. No matter if you choose a hearty coffeecake, delicate layer cake or French pastry, it will be dome to perfection and served with the best coffee this side of heaven. “Unable to decide between the chocolate chip scone and the sticky bun...naturally I got them both. Their scones aren’t just good, they are the best I’ve ever had! And I’ve tried
storksbakery.com 954-567-3220
many,” another reviewer on Yelp wrote. “The sticky bun made me want to get up and dance and sing.” Storks has been a local Wilton Manors favorite since 1997. Those who think of it as “just a coffee shop” couldn’t be more wrong. While Stork’s features 8 types of coffee each day, as well as a vast array of teas, smoothies, cappuccinos and lattes, served iced or hot, it also offers breakfast, lunch and dinner items to eat in or take home. The food has Mediterranean flair. Stork’s also has a very successful catering department. Stork’s is also known for supporting several local non-profit organizations.
Stork's Bakery. Photo credit: Carina Mask.
- RK
Thank you SFGN READERS for voting Courtyard Cafe BEST DOWN HOME COOKING and BEST PLACE TO EAT AFTER MIDNIGHT
Best Ice/Gelato Wilton Creamery 2301 Wilton Dr # C4 Wilton Manors wiltoncreamery.com 954-565-1183 The beautiful loft space offers two levels as well as outdoor seating. The decor has an industrial-meets-50’s vibe. All of the ice creams, gelato and sorbet are chef curated, with seasonal and rotating flavors of ice cream such as pecan praline dulce, sea salt caramel, sweet cinnamon, strong coffee, triple rum raisin, Snickers adjacent, Christopher loves chocolate, and its most popular flavor “He’s Not Worth It” (you really must try Shampoo when it’s available). You won’t be disappointed by the wide variety of small batch artisanal offerings
4
SFGN.COM // Best Of LGBT South Florida • Fall 2019
Be2s0t19of
at our home-town favorite. There are dairy-free, sugar-free, vegan and even dog-friendly options. The only thing they could do to be more accommodating is to serve it to me in bed (just a suggestion, guys). - RK
Thank you
South Florida Gay News Readers
for voting Cabanas Guesthouse & Spa FORT LAUDERDALE’S BEST GAY GUESTHOUSE & SPA 2019 We are grateful to be part of South Florida’s Gay Community, hosting gay travelers from around the world since 1999.
954.564.7764 www.TheCabanasGuesthouse.com 2209 NE 26th Street Wilton Manors, FL 33305
Be2s0t19of
Fall 2019 • Best Of LGBT South Florida // SFGN.COM
5
Best Of 2019
FOOD
broward county
Best Kept Secret
Best Down Home Cooking & Place to Eat After Midnight
3
time winner!
Courtyard Cafe 2211 Wilton Dr, Wilton Manors wiltonmanorscourtyardcafe.com 954-563-2499
Le Patio 2401 NE 11th Ave Wilton Manors LePatioWiltonManors.com (954) 530-4641 Can it still be a secret after sweeping the same category for so many years? Apparently so! The tiny dining spot with its romantic
“Le Patio is hidden away off of Wilton Dr. where if you aren’t looking, you would walk right past.” - YElp Review 6
patio and French/Italian fusion fare chugs along like the little engine that could. “When you visit Le Patio, you’re in for a treat. Experience its famous French onion soup, house made Lasagna, shepherd’s pie and any of its other mouthwatering dishes,” the business owners write on Yelp. The escargot will win over even the most finicky eater. Vero and Jean are renowned for their creative combinations of spices and sauces. The warm and charming atmosphere will instantly relax you while they dote on you like two of your favorite aunts. “The ambiance outside is really nice with all the greenery and very low lighting,” one Yelp reviewer said. Another added: “Le Patio is hidden away off of Wilton Dr. where if you aren’t looking, you would walk right past. This makes it even more intriguing.” Maybe that’s why it’s still Wilton Manors’ Best Kept Secret even after all of these years. Weekly menu specials offer unique flavors and pairings, and the menu is vegetarian friendly.
Sometimes you just want a meal like Mom would have made, if she knew how to cook. Courtyard dishes up classic diner fare you want two eggs over easy and a side of bacon? No problem. You want a meatloaf dinner with lumpy mashed potatoes? They’ve got that too. Just about anything you might get in Mom’s kitchen you can order at Courtyard. Monday night is “Burger Madness” with free soda or iced teas with each burger,
- RK
SFGN.COM // Best Of LGBT South Florida • Fall 2019
Be2s0t19of
Just about anything you might get in Mom’s kitchen you can order at Courtyard.
and most of those burgers are priced less than $10, and that’s with a large amount of fries! That’s about $5 less than you’ll pay for a similar burger elsewhere on the drive. Other days features such enticements as 2 for 1 dinners, and package deals And you can get it late, after a night at the bars, Courtyard is open until 11 p.m. Monday through Wednesday, 24 hours on the weekend, until 3 in the morning Sunday. “I was amazed at how delicious their breakfast was. I ordered the bacon egg and cheese sandwich, as well as the breakfast quesadilla. The quesadilla was huge and I could only eat half of it. The food was cooked to order, came out piping hot, and was delicious,” wrote one reviewer on Yelp. “The owner stood at the counter the entire time and was extremely attentive checking on all of us constantly as we ate. You can really feel that they appreciate your business here, and you’re not just another customer.” - RK
Be2s0t19of
Fall 2019 • Best Of LGBT South Florida // SFGN.COM
7
Best Of 2019
BARS & CLUBS
broward county
Best Bar, Theme night, Karaoke & Business Owner 5
time winner!
Hunters
2232 Wilton Dr Fort Lauderdale huntersftlauderdale.com 954-630-3556
Hunters conquered the nightlife scene again. Hunter’s is a five-time champion in the “Best Bar” category. This year, the Fort Lauderdale nightclub took four awards: Best Bar, Best Karaoke, Best Theme Night and Best Business Owner. “Hunters Wilton Manors was voted best bar because we have the best customers in the world,” said co-owner Mark Hunter. “If it weren’t for them we wouldn’t be Hunters Wilton Manors. Also, we have an amazing team at Hunters Wilton Manors and as the saying goes……it takes a village. I want to recognize my co-owner Patrick Volkert, our general manager Bruce Howe and our
This year Hunter’s was the presenting sponsor of the Wicked Manors Halloween block party. Hunters. Photo credit: Carina Mask.
Hunters. Photo credit: Carina Mask.
8
SFGN.COM // Best Of LGBT South Florida • Fall 2019
Be2s0t19of
manager support team of Randy D’Agostino, Natasha Ribas and Kurtis Solomon. I also have to mention our stellar bar staff members. They are kind, efficient, friendly and are all great people. Electrum Branding is our new media company and they have been doing a great job in getting the word out. Thanks to all!” Mark, an accomplished ballroom dancer, and Patrick, a systems engineer, were a couple for many years, owning nightclubs in Chicago and California. Now just business partners, the men bought Hunters in 2013, ordered a complete renovation and built its street cred by helping local non-profits and sponsoring recreational teams. Mark travels back and forth from his Palm Springs club regularly. Hunter’s Palm Springs, located in the southern California desert, is highly regarded as well. SFGN readers also voted Mark as Best Business Owner in Broward County. The recognition comes as the nightclub installed new signage at its Fort Lauderdale location. Mark has been in the bar business for 37 years. This year Hunter’s was the presenting sponsor of the Wicked Manors Halloween block party. “There is no doubt that we should be supporting the community,” Mark told SFGN publisher Norm Kent on the Oct. 30 episode of The Norm Kent Show.
broward county
Best Of 2019
Mark Hunter. Photo credit: Carina Mask.
THANK YOU SFGN READERS FOR VOTING
Wilton Creamery
Best Ice Cream & Gelato! Mark said gay bars today are becoming more and more diverse and open to more lifestyles. What was once predominantly male occupied spaces has evolved in a gender fluid realm. Although there are many options for LGBT nightlife experiences in south Florida – particularly on Wilton Drive – Mark views the market as stable. “I don’t look at the other businesses as competitors, I look at them as compliments,” Mark said. “The bigger the pie, the bigger the piece. The more thriving businesses that we have on Wilton Drive the healthier the business atmosphere will be.” Hunter’s karaoke operation takes place on Monday and Tuesday nights. Sunday’s Tea Dance won for Best Theme Night. It’s a big night with DJ Richie Rich running sound. The dance floor section of the club has it all. Lights, fog, dancers, a big screen projector and music help to get your feet shuffling. Climb the stairs to get a glimpse of those sweaty dancers from Sal’s Starlight Lounge.
The lounge is named after the late Studio 54 bartender Sal DeFalco, who helped Hunters open. A visit to the lounge during high tea is one way to fulfill Hunters’ promise of “Spirits Elevated.” - JMD
2301 WILTON DRIVE
The dance floor section of the club has it all. Lights, fog, dancers, a big screen projector and music help to get your feet shuffling. Be2s0t19of
954-565-1183 WILTONCREAMERY.COM
Fall 2019 • Best Of LGBT South Florida // SFGN.COM
9
Best Of 2019
BUSINESS
broward county
Cabanas 2209 N.E. 26th Street Wilton Manors TheCabanasGuestHouse.com 954-565-2307
Best Guesthouse 5
time winner!
For the fifth year in a row, the Cabanas has won Best Guesthouse. John Dorry the owner of Cabanas credits his success to having the friendliest staff, being in the most amazing location, and the having best men’s amenities in Wilton Manors. The guesthouse’s close proximity to Wilton Manors makes it an ideal spot for vacationers. It’s a tropical setting with
Guests can relax in an allmale, clothing optional environment.
heated saltwater pools, 10-man hot tub, aromatherapy steam room, and canal access for kayakers and paddle-boarders. Guests can relax in an all-male, clothing optional environment. Locals can purchase day passes and make appointments for massages or pedicures at the spa. Tripadvisor awarded Cabanas its Certificate of Excellence in 2015. There are 18 rooms ranging from one and two bedroom suites to standard rooms with queen and king size beds. Guests enjoy a continental breakfast, DVD library, secured off-street parking and high-speed internet access. On holidays Cabanas goes all out with a full barbecue and DJ. Cabanas will be having a festive New Years’ Eve celebration Additionally the Cabanas Spa won for Best Spa. - JM
Best Pet Groomer Best Spa 6
Alan Aghazadian, Jodie Arrington and Josh Meneses. Photo credit: Carina Mask.
time winner!
2155 N Dixie Hwy Wilton Manors wiltonsmanor.com 754-223-4776
10
Cabanas 2209 N.E. 26th Street Wilton Manors TheCabanasGuestHouse.com 954-565-2307
Wilton’s Manor Doggie Daycare, Resort and Spa
If consistency is an accurate marker of success, then Alan Aghazadian and Josh Meneses have it in spades. The owners of Wilton’s Manor Doggie Day Care have won “Best Pet Groomer” for six years running. “It’s truly an honor that we never take for granted,” Aghazadian said. Add humbleness to their recipe of success. “We honestly wouldn’t be where we are today if not for our amazing groomer, Jodie Arrington. She has worked tirelessly for over six years [and] brings her
5
time winner!
extensive knowledge in different breeds and all their specific needs for a healthy and great looking groom,” he said. The business opened in Wilton Manors in 2011. “As for our countless customers and friends that have all taken the time out to vote for us, we couldn’t be more grateful. We strive to be better than we were last year. Woof!” Aghazadian said. - DS
SFGN.COM // Best Of LGBT South Florida • Fall 2019
Be2s0t19of
For the fifth year in a row, readers of SFGN awarded Best Spa to Cabanas Spa. Located in Wilton Manors, Cabanas Spa offers a wide array of packages and treatments from massages and facials to manicures and pedicures. Chaz, a spa employee said “Cabanas Spa is your own get away from this busy world, and is a destination for those who need a break.” They offer packages that bundle most treatments, and all spa treatments include an hour pass for the steam room, pools
and other amenities at Cabanas. Carlos Rodriguez, the new owner of Cabanas Day Spa wanted to thank everyone recognizing the Spa as an important part of the community. He credits their success to having a staff that loves what they do. Cabanas Spa will continue to give the best service possible, and build relationships both near and far. Next time you need a little you-time think of your local get away and make a reservation for the Cabanas Day Spa. - JM
broward county
Best Of 2019
Best Hair Salon
THREE Years In A Row!
Dick’s Service Station M
ORIGINAL
CA N Y D
3528 NE 12th Ave. Oakland Park dicks954.com 954-353-5507
S OR N A
OR ST
WILT ON
E
D
O
00
O
SE
0 7, R1
FR
OVE
OM
4
time winner!
Thank YOU SFGN readers for voting us Best Gift Store AND Best Business...
IF
FE
RE
NT ITE MS
TO
C
H
Dick's Service Station. Photo credit: Carina Mask.
What do you get when you combine a gas station and hair? A trendy and hip full service barber shop and hair salon, or more specifically Dick’s Service Station in Oakland Park. Those two concepts at first might not seem to go well together, but Dick’s pulls it together and makes it work. “We wanted a place that could be comfortable for guys to come into,” said co-owner Christian Santiago. “Salons, feel uncomfortable, maybe too feminine or too fancy.” Dick’s has won Best Hair Salon every
Much of the clientele is LGBT, a group the duo works to stay close with.
year since opening – this is their fourth award. In addition this year one of the barber’s Darren was voted in as Best Hair Stylist. Santiago and his husband Eric McKnight started the business in 2016. Their staff at the shop are a part of the “pit crew.” The designation is because the shop is modeled to look like an old fashioned 1950s vintage service station with antiques and artifacts from that era. Services range from skin fades to coloring, waxing, body trimming, beard trimming and more. Much of the clientele is LGBT, a group the duo works to stay close with. But for Santiago and McKnight it’s not just about hair. It’s also about community. “We are extremely involved. We support a lot of different charities that are local and community based within Oakland Park and Wilton Manors,” Santiago said. “We just want to thank community for their support. And for the community standing behind us and helping us make this a very successful shop.”
ALL in -New December Diamond Mermen! stock NOW -Largest Selection of Glass ornaments in state of Florida!
To the Moon
2205 Wilton Drive, Wilton Manors, FL 33305
(954) 564-2987
ToTheMoonMarketplace.com
- JEP
Be2s0t19of
Fall 2019 • Best Of LGBT South Florida // SFGN.COM
11
Best Of 2019
Shopping
broward county
Best Gift Store & Best Business To the Moon won in two categories: Best Gift Store and Best Business. When you first walk into the store, you notice that every square inch is filled with items. Most items measure less than three inches in height. The large number of small items looks like a cleaning nightmare, but the owner, Antonio Dumas said, “It moves so fast that that it doesn’t really have time to get filthy. We turn merchandise very quickly.” Dumas has an infectious enthusiasm for what he sells. He exclaimed, “There are so many wonderful products out there that I want to buy everything.
you’d be hard pressed to find any store as special and unique as this tucked away gift shop.
Best Adult Store & Best Clothing Store The Pride Factory won in two categories: the Best Adult Store and the Best Clothing Store. Lori Deak, Vice President of the Pride Factory credited her friendly and helpful staff for their success. She said the staff “are there to support the customers and help them find what they want to buy.” According to Deak, the Pride Factory strives for a niche market of unique quality goods. The store seeks out quality goods and “offers a wide variety in every department.” This depends on developing a relationship with customers. Deak said her customers are “always willing to provide input regarding the things they would like to see in our store.” The adult store features a variety of adult toys and lube. It also has non-leather harnesses and lots of sexy underwear. The adult section does not hide behind a “leather curtain,” but is in an open, well-lit area in the back.
12
Pride Factory
6
time winner!
850 NE 13th St Fort Lauderdale www.pridefactory.com 954-463-6600 The clothing store features beach and dance wear: shorts, tee-shirts, and tank tops. It has even more underwear. In addition, the store has, for lack of a better word, butch fanny packs. They also carry military style bags/briefcases. SFGN File Photo.
- SMS
SFGN.COM // Best Of LGBT South Florida • Fall 2019
Be2s0t19of
5
time winner!
To The Moon 2205 Wilton Drive Wilton Manors tothemoonmarketplace.com 954-564-2987
I want people to see everything that I think is wonderful. My challenge is to make it fit to make it work keeping it all organized.” To The Moon caries over 20,000 different items in a 1,200 square foot space. To The Moon has a very large and loyal customer base so its no wonder To The Moon also won Best Business. Plus you’d be hard pressed to find any store as special and unique as this tucked away gift shop. About four months ago, someone burglarized the store. Dumas described the outpouring from the community as just amazing. The store had videos of the burglary. Their customers shared those videos. According to Dumas, they went viral. That’s another measure of community support. - SMS
Stonewall-Museum.org Stonewall National Museum & Archives
Gala
Looking Back, Moving Forward Presented by
Mis
Sunday, February 23 Conrad Fort Lauderdale Beach 5:00 - 8:30 pm
ng uri
u r e P o s Coc
t fe a
tess Hos t e h T tha ! with g...extra n i eth som
Honoring: Mark Silber,
Stonewall National Museum & Archives Founder
$200 Regular / $250 VIP Tickets Earlybird pricing through 12/31/19
Stonewall National Museum & Archives
46th ANNIVERARY CELEBRATION! THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 21, 2019 7:00PM - 9:00PM Tickets $50 per person include: (2) Two Drink Tickets for Funky Buddha’s award winning craft beer, wine or soda and scrumptious hors d’oeuvres.
To purchase tickets or for more information visit
stonewall-musuem.org
or call Monique Force-Setlock at 754-206-3323.
Be2s0t19of
1201 NE 38TH ST OAKLAND PARK FL 33334 funkybuddhabrewery.com
Fall 2019 • Best Of LGBT South Florida // SFGN.COM
13
Best Of 2019
Best Group for Seniors 3
time winner!
8
time winner!
Bruce Williams, Active Aging Manager 954-463-9005; ext. 109
For the third year in a row, SFGN readers chose the Pride Center at Equality Park’s weekly “Coffee & Conversation” gettogethers as the best group for seniors. Every Tuesday morning literally hundreds of seniors (mostly men) and their friends gather at the main hall of the Pride Center for coffee, tea, chocolate, bagels, pastries and each other’s company. Those who are present at C&C, many of whom are shut-ins the rest of the week, learn about their community from Bruce Williams, the Pride Center’s Active Aging Manager, other representatives from the Center, local activists and politicians, and hear a special report from the event’s sponsors, usually health related. According to Bruce Williams, “human beings of all ages harbor a constant need for socialization and non-judgmental connection. In other gathering places there is often the fear of being too fat, too thin, too old, too tall, etc. At Coffee & Conversation, the only size that matters is the size of the donuts. Folks can relax, be themselves and simply enjoy being with
WomenInNetwork.com
Like advocating for women, with women? Women In Network has been working tirelessly for 32 years to bring LBT women and their allies together to network, advocate, and educate. “We are so honored to be chosen by SFGN’s readers as the Best Group for Women for the eighth time,” said Denise Spivak, President of Women in Network. “It is our mission to serve the LBT community of South Florida and to build a network that can be a benefit to everyone. We are proud of the work that WIN has done for over 30 years, and we’re excited to keep supporting South Florida’s LBT women, our partner agencies, and our allies.”
one another. By muting the microphone for the entire first hour, we have shifted the focus away from the presenters and to the attendees.” Coffee & Conversation is part of the Pride Center’s continuing outreach to LGBT seniors, which now includes the Residences at Equality Park, an affordable senior housing community currently under construction. “As the executive director of a large continuous care retirement for 25 years, I watched some 5,000 folks go through the final stages of their lives. The take away for me was that ‘a planned 2nd/50 years is an enhanced 2nd/50 years!’ Sadly, our society deals with aging issues primarily as a crisis arises. By having a different C&C sponsor each week, attendees are made aware of the plethora of community resources in our area. My goal is to bribe attendees with coffee and goodies and at the same time to have them walk away with at least one additional resource each week.” - JM
SFGN.COM // Best Of LGBT South Florida • Fall 2019
Best Group For Women Women in Network
Coffee & Conversation Pride Center at Equality Park 2040 North Dixie Highway Wilton Manors FL Tuesdays 10-11:30 a.m.
14
GROUPS
broward county
Be2s0t19of
According to the group’s website: “The WIN Community and Network is the cornerstone of our organization. WIN connects like-minded, career-driven women across multiple industries and generations. Through various events and initiatives, we continue to expand our broad network and provide a community where women can turn to for support, guidance, and inspiration.” - JEP
GROUPS
broward county
Best Of 2019
Best Social Group 5
Bears of South Florida
time winner!
bosfl.org
The Bears of South Florida (BOSFL), is consistently chosen as best social group. BOSFL raises funds by offering opportunities for social and fraternal interaction between its more than 1,800 members. The club strives for diversity and acceptance of any person who wishes to join. Membership within the club consists of bears, cubs and those who wish to socialize with such people. There is no political agenda for the group, its focus is to encourage friendships, a positive attitude and camaraderie both within the
group and in the community. Its goal is equal acceptance within the group regardless of any physical characteristic. “Our mission is to provide a safe and welcoming space for the Bear community of South Florida to socialize and engage in fundraising activities to benefit local LGBTQ organizations,” said Kevin Daft, President of BOSFL. “We’re an active group, sponsoring events like pool parties, bowling nights, theater and cultural events, movies, ‘meet-ups’ at local establishments, dinners, ‘Scare a Bear’ at Enigma Haunt, trips to Miami and Flamingo Gardens,
‘Bear-aoke’ nights and more.” But it’s not just about fun though. It’s also about giving back to the community. “We’ve had a lot of fun in 2019 and have raised a lot of money; we anticipate awarding grants totaling $12,000 to six local nonprofits at our holiday dinner in December,” Daft said. “This really is a very friendly and fun group of guys. If you’re looking to make some new friends through a variety of different social events, join us!” - RK
The Bears of South Florida. Photo credit: Carina Mask.
Be2s0t19of
Fall 2019 • Best Of LGBT South Florida // SFGN.COM
15
Best Of 2019
broward county
Best Group for Youth & Trans Sunserve 2312 Wilton Dr Wilton Manors sunserve.org 954-764-5150
SunServe is known for its social services groups so it’s no wonder they took home awards for Best Group for LGBT youth and Best Group for the Trans community. For LGBT youth, winding up homeless or in foster care because of unsupportive parents is a very real possibility. But in Fort Lauderdale, there’s a home for that population: SunServe.
Bertran estimated SunServe sees at least 250 youth per year utilizing their services.
SunServe is a social services center for LGBT people of all ages with locations in Fort Lauderdale and Wilton Manors. One of their specialties is serving marginalized youth and the economically disadvantaged. Director of Youth Services Tori Bertran said the basic life skills that SunServe teaches like cooking, opening bank accounts and doing laundry makes them different from most other LGBT youth organizations. “Our social events always keep people engaged,” Betran said. Some of those events are game and movie nights, roller blading, and youth proms. Along with basic life coaching, SunServe also hosts therapy, peer groups, and support groups including this year’s Best Group for Trans — Safe “T” Trans/Gender Non-Conforming Group that meets every Wednesday from 6:30 to 8 p.m. Bertran estimated SunServe sees at least 250 youth per year utilizing their services. With little exceptions, youth resources are free. - KG
16
SFGN.COM // Best Of LGBT South Florida • Fall 2019
Be2s0t19of
3
time winner!
Be2s0t19of
Fall 2019 • Best Of LGBT South Florida // SFGN.COM
17
Best Of 2019
PEOPLE
broward county
Best Local DJ
Best Trans Advocate
Richie Rich Hunters 2232 Wilton Dr Fort Lauderdale huntersftlauderdale.com 954-630-3556
Misty Eyez
facebook.com/ImaMistyEyezFan Photo courtesy of Misty Eyez.
Richie Rich won in the best local DJ category. Rich deejays for several local bars. Their packed dance floors, and parking lots testify to his skills. He has worked as a deejay since the late 70s. A good deejay knows how to read a dance floor to understand its mood and beat. They know what to put on next to take that mood and beat to the next level. They have to do this in a matter of minutes. It’s a unique skill set. A good deejay like Richie Rich learns how to “connect with
crowd and please them with the music they like to dance to.” Rich finds his biggest challenge in “trying to please everyone as people have different tastes.” Rich, however, loves a challenge. Some of his fans travel long distances to hear Richie Rich deejay. Rich knows his fans are loyal and he gives back with his skill in the deejay booth. - SMS
Best Barista Misty Eyez works as an educator and case manager at SunServe. What started as a part-time role has blossomed into a full-time professional passion. Misty’s responsibilities and aspirations continue to grow.
“Knowledge is power and we’re sharing as much knowledge as we can with as many people.” - Misty Eyez SunServe
18
“We’re doing more trainings with police officers and medical establishment students,” she said. “Knowledge is power and we’re sharing as much knowledge as we can with as many people. Our department is growing as well. We just hired two new case managers. I’m super excited just to see the potential that our department has and we’re already brainstorming and expanding our minds to see the new and outrageous things that we can do.” Misty is going back to school and hopes to earn her master’s degree in social work on her way to one day becoming a licensed clinical social worker. “I just love what I’m doing so much,” she said. What she’s doing is assisting trans people in many different ways. “It’s clientled wrap around case management,” she explained. “If you come in here and tells us you need help with something, we’re going to help you with it.” - DR
SFGN.COM // Best Of LGBT South Florida • Fall 2019
Daniel @ Storks
Daniel at Stork's. Photo credit: Carina Mask.
Stork’s Bakery 2505 NE 15th Ave, Wilton Manors storksbakery.com 954-567-3220 Daniel at Storks won in the Best Barista category. Daniel credits his success to developing relationships with his customers. His success involves both knowing both the business and his customers. He stressed listening to the customer to learn what they want. That way, he can provide them with the best possible service. Daniel said “It’s about patience, listening, and understanding.” It will make the customer happy and the business grow. Daniel feels that when dealing with
Be2s0t19of
people, everything is about relating to each other. When customers have special needs, it can present a challenge. Daniel works with the them to come up with something not on the standard menu. Daniel likes it when customers are direct and “tell him what they like.” He also likes it when they show gratitude. He likes it when, as a customer is leaving, they say “Daniel, thank you, The sandwich was great.” It doesn’t always involve money. - SMS
broward county
Best Of 2019
Best Hairstylist Darren Dick’s Service Station 3528 NE 12th Ave. Oakland Park 954-353-5507 Dicks954.com
Darren at Dick's Service Station. Photo credit: Carina Mask.
While Darren may have won the award for Best Hairstylist he considers himself a “Hairlusionist.” “I take what you have and make it look its best,” he said on his webpage. He added to SFGN, “I work really hard at listening to what the customer’s wants are and executing it.” Darren has been its Dick’s since the business started in 2016. “Darren is a great guy. We consulted with him on the business from the very
“He goes the extra mile inside and outside the shop with various charity events.” - Christian Santiago Co-owner of Dick’s Service Station
beginning,”said Christian Santiago, coowner of Dick’s. “He always goes above and beyond. He has a very strong loyal following of customers. He goes the extra mile inside and outside the shop with various charity events.” For Darren it’s not all about the hair though — it’s about community. “The whole intention for us is just pay it forward it,” he said. He points to one program of theirs called the Heaven Cent program. Their prices are set at the .99 cent level so they can collect pennies each quarter and donate the proceeds to a different charity such as the Pet Project, Humane Society and Poverello. Dick’s then matches the donation. Santiago said Darren is true joy to work with. “He is, in a very good way, the center of attention,” Santiago said. “He really makes the shop a pleasure for all of the crew pit members and customers. He just has a very fun personality.” It’s clear Darren loves his job. “I’m just the luckiest guy in town,” he said. “I can’t say that enough.” As for his win this year? “I’ve been on the list every year so I felt like Susan Lucci,” Darren said chuckling. - JEP
Be2s0t19of
Fall 2019 • Best Of LGBT South Florida // SFGN.COM
19
Best Of 2019
PEOPLE
broward county
Best Bartender (Guy) Frank at DrYnk Bar & Lounge DrYnk Bar & Lounge 2255 Wilton Dr Wilton Manors drynkftl.com 954-530-1800 DrYnk bartender Frank Ciliberti has won for the first time in this category. This isn’t a side gig; he considers bartending his true craft, with 32 years of experience under his belt. Ciliberti credits much of his success at DrYnk to the fresh ingredients and wide variety of spirits and liquors that are available at his fingertips. But to understand why he was tops in the very competitive category, let’s go to the social media comments. (There are lots of exclamation points). “Frank made my birthday extra special when one of my friends took me out for an afternoon celebration. He is always ‘on’ and when we ask for a suggestion for a new
Best Massage Therapist Roberto Nocifora grandresort.net
drink, he always has one on hand. His personality and drinkmaking abilities makes him a great bartender!” “Frank is beyond compare! Serving up the best in cocktails, banter and sarcasm ... Absolute perfection!” “Frank was amazing. This guy has a great personality, energetic as can be and makes a mean ass cocktail.” - DS
Best Local TV Personality Roberto Nocifora knows how to touch a man. That’s probably why he won this year’s award for Best Massage Therapist. “l really do love what I do for work, and it shows in my touch. Energy is everything,” Roberto explained. “On my own I do a range of modalities. I custom massages to a client’s needs.” Roberto specializes in everything from deep tissue and body scrubs to a light Swedish massage. Roberto works at the Grand Resort and Spa in Fort Lauderdale. This year the resort was nominated for Best Guesthouse and Best Spa. He’s been in the massage business for over 20 years and his clients range in age from 21 to 104.
Craig Stevens WSVN
The anchorman for WSVN, Craig Stevens, is a longtime South Florida newsman. “Very professional, very polished,” said one Miami Beach gay activist. “He’s been the AIDS Walk Master of Ceremonies before…has definitely paid his dues.” In his career Stevens, has covered an array remarkable events, notably the 1995 bombing of a federal building in downtown Oklahoma City, Okla. -- to this day the largest act of homegrown terrorism. He was on hand in Havana, Cuba as the Obama administration raised Old Glory for the first time since 1961 and has reported on Papal visits, the Versace murder and the mass shooting at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland. He’s had fun too – leading Pride parades, AIDS walks and hosting fundraisers for the Harvey Milk Foundation and Pride Center. At WSVN, a Fox affiliate, Stevens co-anchors the nightly news. He also teaches in an adjunct role for the University of Miami in Coral Gables. Stevens grew up in Massachusetts and graduated from American University in Washington, D.C. He started his
20
- JEP
journalism career in the mail room at NBC News and soon found himself working the assignment desk during the 1988 Presidential election. A bachelor, Stevens, 50, lives in Miami with his loyal pooch Parker.
SFGN.COM // Best Of LGBT South Florida • Fall 2019
- JMD
Be2s0t19of
Roberto specializes in everything from deep tissue and body scrubs to a light Swedish massage.
PEOPLE
broward county
Best Of 2019
Best Drag Queen
Best Realtor
5
Jimmy Cunningham
time winner!
Daisy Deadpetals Wilton Manors
RE/MAX Experience License #: 3220201 1103 NE 26th St, Wilton Manors 954-303-7380 Realtors are a special bunch – they memorize square footage, lot size, closing costs, amortization … you get the idea. Oh, and they are basically available to their clients seven days a week. So we salute Jimmy Cunningham of RE/ MAX Experience in Wilton Manors for taking top billing in the category this year. He’s won before, which makes it even more remarkable. He’s a ridiculously nice guy, too. “I have always believed in giving back to the community that I love and that has been so supportive,” Cunningham said.
“To that end, my partner and I contribute and participate in over 10 local charities and community organizations and regularly support, advertise and support those causes.” Those groups include the Pride Center, Equality Florida, Island City Stage, Latinos Salud, Gay Men’s Chorus of South Florida, Lambda Legal and the Pet Project. “I believe the top level of achievement is giving,” he said. - DS
For Daisy Deadpetals is good to be the queen. 2019 marks her fifth consecutive win in the Best Drag Queen category. Success has not gone to her head. She’s as sweet and humble as ever. “I’m so grateful for this honor,” she said. “It’s so wonderful to hear.” Thanks to her wardrobe, attitude, and hilarity that is equally intelligent and silly, Daisy Deadpetals is the picture of drag queenly perfection. Blondes may have more fun, but audience members watching Daisy have the most fun. Daisy’s done every look and done them well. (Madonna is a favorite!) And let’s face it, she looks great in just about everything and the highest of heels don’t get in the way of her dance moves.
Submitted photo.
Daisy knows how to work a crowd, and her staying power is a testament to all of her skills. When she’s not performing, Daisy stays busy writing. Her day job is working as a writer for Helix Studios and 8teenboy. You can catch Daisy Deadpetals entertaining performances at The Manor of Fridays, Lips on Saturdays, Camelot in West Palm Beach on Sundays, and once a month at The Pub for Show Girls. - DR
Proud to be named
BEST
NEIGHBORHOOD OF 2019
by South Florida Gay News 30+ Bars & Restaurants • 40+ Festivals & Events • 12 Art Galleries & 2 Museums • 20+ Boutiques & More!
(954) 390-2130 | wiltonmanors.com | Be2s0t19of
Fall 2019 • Best Of LGBT South Florida // SFGN.COM
21
Best Of 2019
PEOPLE
broward county
Best Local Politician, Activist and Attorney Dean Trantalis Mayor of Fort Lauderdale Attorney trantalislaw.com
He must be doing something right. For the second straight year, Fort Lauderdale Mayor Dean Trantalis has been voted “Best Local Politician” by SFGN readers. This year he’s also been voted Best Activist and Best Attorney. Trantalis has proved in short order to be deft on the issues that matter to Fort Lauderdale residents. He is notably, but not annoyingly, visible and accessible – and constituents find him very relatable. The ridiculously youthful 66-year-old is intimately involved with matters that affect the LGBT community. He was the first openly gay Fort Lauderdale city commissioner in 2003 and his landslide mayoral election in 2018 made him the first openly gay Fort Lauderdale mayor.
Photo via the City of Fort Lauderdale.
22
SFGN.COM // Best Of LGBT South Florida • Fall 2019
Trantalis also helped lead efforts toward samesex marriages in Florida and the passage of Broward’s domestic partnership law. Be2s0t19of
Trantalis immediately began work on infrastructure issues, and expertly handled communications regarding the crippling Fort Lauderdale water main break last summer. He’s also tackled the complex issues of development and homelessness and others that emerged, like how the city should handle the arrival of scooters to sidewalks and streets. And he manages to be a nice guy through it all. But he’s not just a politician, he’s also a noted local attorney as well. If you’ve ever been to Wilton Manors, you’ve likely seen the towering neon red letters: “Trantalis & Assoc.” at 2301 Wilton Drive. Law and politics have been intertwined for much of his life – starting with a political science degree at Boston University in 1975 and a law degree from Stetson University College of Law in Deland in 1979. Trantalis has practiced law in Broward County since 1982. Being a lawyer has helped him become an activist for the LGBT community as well. A taste of the issues he’s worked on include Broward’s efforts to pass a human rights ordinance; defeating a petition drive to enact a law that would have prevented enacting gay rights laws; and the defeat of a petition drive to overturn Broward’s human rights ordinance. Trantalis also helped lead efforts toward same-sex marriages in Florida and the passage of Broward’s domestic partnership law. Today, his firm primarily tackles real estate, wills and trusts, probating estates, bankruptcy, business brokering and landlord/tenant relationships. - DS
PEOPLE
broward county
Best Straight Ally Debbie Wasserman Schultz U.S. Congress
A longtime supporter of LGBT rights, Wasserman Schultz was first elected to the United States House of Representatives in 2004. She currently represents U.S. congressional district 23 (Broward & Miami-Dade) in Washington, D.C. “I am deeply humbled to receive this award, which means so much to me as an ally,” Wasserman Schultz said in a prepared statement. “While I’m encouraged that our nation has made tremendous progress with LGBT rights in recent years, the Trump administration and many state legislatures have made attacking LGBT folks – and especially transgender folks – one of their priorities.” She continued: “The LGBT community continues to face everyday violence and discrimination that no American should ever face,” Wasserman Schultz continued. “That is why we need to pass legislation like the Equality Act now. I am proud to stand at your side in this fight to make the United States a more just and equal nation, and I will never waver when it comes to defending LGBT rights wherever they are threatened.” Born in New York, Wasserman Schultz is a University of Florida graduate and married mother of three. In addition to her support for LGBT rights, Wasserman Schultz, 53, is an active member of the National Jewish Democratic Council and Planned Parenthood. - JM
Best Of 2019
BEST SERVER CHARLIE D. Alibi
Charlie De La Cruz (Charlie D.), who serves dinners on the patio at the Alibi, is a quiet, modest person and possibly the best server that you will ever meet. Part of the wait staff at the Alibi since 2007, Charlie describes the job as “60 percent job description (to serve meals and beverage) and the other 40 percent as the guest connection: to let the guests forget about their day for an hour and enjoy the food, music and laughs at the AlibiMonkey Bar.” Though grateful for the honor, Charlie is quick to acknowledge “my management team, supervisors and bar owners who keep all of our team motivated.” Among Charlie’s talents is knowing what each guest wants and needs. If you are a regular, Charlie knows how you want your burger cooked and what brand of beer you drink. Charlie’s guests know and appreciate this. To Ron Farago, “Charlie is the best waiter because he
Submitted photo.
knows that I am a Chocoholic who loves his chocolate cake, with fudge frosting.” To Bobby Pavlick, “it’s a pleasure dining with Charlie at the Alibi Monkey Bar. He always remembers your drink or the way you like your food ordered. Charlie’s service is always with a smile and Charlie will go out of the way to make everyone feel at home. The Alibi Monkey Bar with Charlie is like a home away from home!” - JM
BEST BARTENDER (FEMALE) BROOKE F.
Submitted photo.
Alibi
Brooke F. was hired by the Alibi as a bartender in 2011 and currently works happy hours at the Alibi’s patio bar. Brooke says her “everyday mission is to prepare beverages for our bar patrons, while interacting with the customers, taking their orders, and serving them their requested drinks. My top priority is to assess and remember our patron’s needs and preferences so that they feel welcomed, appreciated, and special, all at the same time. To me, bartending at the Alibi doesn’t feel like a job because, for the most part, I feel as though I am serving my friends and family.” Folks who remember the Alibi from the old days will be surprised to see a woman tending bar at the Alibi, traditionally a “men’s bar.” Brooke does not see it that way. “The Alibi welcomes everybody: gay, straight, bisexual, trans, drag queens, etc.” To our Ms. Brooke, working as a woman at the Alibi “is AMAZING because they let me be me behind the bar, which is very rare to come by.” To Alibi regulars, Brooke F. is a friend, not just a bartender. In the words of Alibi regular Juan, “I only come
Be2s0t19of
here for that girl (Brooke). Every time I see her I get a smile.” To Bobby Pavlick, “Brooke is the Alibi’s CocktailMixologist Supreme. You never wait long for a cocktail, great conversation and of course her fabulous hair. She’s the Queen of the Alibi Monkey Bar Patio Bar. Name your drink and she will make it with a smile.” - JM
Fall 2019 • Best Of LGBT South Florida // SFGN.COM
23
Best Of 2019
OTHER
broward county
BEST MUSEUM
Best Spiritual Center 7
Dr. Robert Griffin (left) and Durrell Watkins. Photo credit: Carina Mask.
time winner!
Sunshine Cathedral
3
time winner!
1480 SW 9th Ave. Fort Lauderdale SunshineCathedral.org 954-462-2004 God is good. And where better to form a connection with him than at Sunshine Cathedral, SFGN’s winner for Best Spiritual Center. Welcoming is the overwhelming vibe one gets at the Sunshine Cathedral. This church is known for spreading love, acceptance, peace, and joy. That must be they’ve been voted 7 times as Best Spiritual Center. Affiliated with Metropolitan Community Churches, Sunshine Cathedral is known for embracing diversity. Its primary constituency consists of same-gender loving and gender non-conforming people and their allies.
Durrell Watkins and his husband, Dr. Robert Griffin, lead Sunshine Cathedral’s ministry. Griffin, a U.S. Navy veteran, serves as executive minister. As noted in Watkins’ biography by SFGN in one of it’s Out 50 issue’s, Sunshine Cathedral is a “vibrant, thriving, progressive congregation that features blended worship, liberal theology, biblical exposition (likely in new ways that many aren’t used to) and a lot of unapologetic fun.” Sunday worship services are at 9 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. - SFGN Staff
Best Annual Event Wicked Manors
wickedmanors.org SFGN File Photo.
If you weren’t there, why weren’t you? Our readers said it was the top option. More than 30,000 people descended on Wilton Drive this Halloween for Wicked Manors – voted best Annual Event. Roger Roa of the host Pride Center said it was the largest weekday event attendance so far. “The event was a resounding success, and our community was able to gather for a safe, inclusive evening that was filled with celebration and incredible costumes,” he said. More than 120 Pride Center volunteers,
24
board members, staff, community organizations and sponsors pitched in to pull it off. Attendees loved the entertainment stages and more costume eye candy than a brain can process. Readers say this event is top notch for variety, diversity, safety and fun. “Wicked Manors 2020 will be another for the record books — a full moon and a Saturday night will align for a Halloween celebration like no other,” Roa said.
2157 Wilton Drive, Wilton Manors Open Thurs-Fri-Sat 11 a.m. - 8 p.m.; Sunday 11 a.m.-6 p.m. stonewall-museum.org 954-530-9337
Hunter O'Hanian, Executive Director. Photo credit: Carina Mask.
For the third year in a row, SFGN readers chose the Stonewall National Museum and Archives the Best Museum in Broward County, one that promotes “understanding through preserving and sharing the proud culture of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people and their significant role in American society.” According to Hunter O’Hanian, Stonewall’s newly-appointed Executive Director, “as the gay community has matured and found its voice over the past 50 or so years, people realize the importance of what they and others have endured. Of course, we all know that the struggle is not over. But people like that fact that our history is being preserved
“...people like that fact that our history is being preserved to prove we were here and help guide future generations.” - Hunter O’Hanian Stonewall Executive Director
- DS
SFGN.COM // Best Of LGBT South Florida • Fall 2019
STONEWALL NATIONAL MUSEUM AND ARCHIVES
Be2s0t19of
to prove we were here and help guide future generations.” “Over the past year, the SNMA has mounted some amazing exhibitions in Wilton Manors; they have lent objects to some significant LGBTQ themed exhibitions in other cities; run a very successful educational program aimed at helping queer kids nationwide; and enhanced our library and archival holdings.” The Museum’s most recent exhibit, “PULP: Erotic Paperbacks in Gay Male Culture,” celebrated gay male pulp fiction, “a key element in the evolution of a diverse gay male identity and self-expression in the United States.” Like physique magazines, gay pulps played an important role in LGBT culture of the 20th Century. What are the Stonewall Museum’s plans for the future? To O’Hanian, “we need to secure our organizational operations and broaden our reach in South Florida. We are one of the major cultural organizations here and we need to do a better job engaging residents and visitors. We need to be sure everyone feels welcome. I will be spending at lot of time getting our house in order, raising resources, diversity and inclusion and letting people know we are here. It seems like a lot of work, but it is all doable.” - JM
LOCAL NAME. GLOBAL COVERAGE.
SOUTHFLORIDAGAYNE WS.COM
BROWARD HOUSE THANKS YOU FOR CHOOSING US AS
SFGN’S BEST HIV/AIDS NON-PROFIT OF 2019 HOUSING
COUNSELING SUPPORT
Your Care Guides at Broward House CASE MANAGEMENT
WE ARE YOUR
[ ] ALLY G U IDE ADVOCATE SU PP ORT LISTE N E R
MEDICAL CARE
EDUCATION & PREVENTION
PEOPLE
WE HAVE YOUR PATH TO HEALTH
WE FOUND OUR
[
]
HOPE HE ALTH VALU E STRE NGTH PATH
PEOPLE
Group Client Photo placeholder
Broward House Success
LIVE YOUR BEST LIFE!
browardhouse.org | 954-568-7373 2800 N. Andrews Ave. Wilton Manors, FL 33311 HIV Primary Care | PrEP | Mental Health | Support Services Be2s0t19of
Fall 2019 • Best Of LGBT South Florida // SFGN.COM
25
Best Of 2019
OTHER
broward county
Best Neighborhood Central Wilton Manors wiltonmanors.com
This is SFGN’s first time offering up Best Neighborhood, which goes to Central Wilton Manors. It makes sense since this area includes the Drive so who wouldn’t
we presume it will only get hotter once Wilton Drive has been narrowed.
want to live in the heart of the gayborhood? And we presume it will only get hotter once Wilton Drive has been narrowed. “The Central Area Neighborhood Association has it all! Not only delicious restaurants and lively bars, but 3 parks (Hagen, Island City, and Richardson) along with a museum, art galleries, and intimate theaters,” said Adrienne Foland, a local real estate agent and Vice President of the Wilton Manors Historical Society. “Plus you can walk everywhere! I have lived here for 16 years and loved every weekend of it.” - JEP
Best Fundraiser
Best HIV/AIDS Non-Profit
3
Broward House
time winner!
Smart Ride
BrowardHouse.org
TheSmartRide.org
The true story of ‘Queer As Folks’ Liberty Ride may have been taken from this year’s best fundraiser. Glen Weinzimer was inspired to create a fundraiser that truly gave back 100 percent of it’s proceeds back to Florida, after seeing a similar fundraising bike ride put most of its proceeds to “expenses.” The Smart Ride gives 100 percent of what it makes back to Florida’s HIV community. Weinzimer explained that they do this by working with their community partners, and having amazing sponsors such as Gilead, CAN Community Health, and Merck. Every dollar raised, goes back to Florida! Smart Ride’s annual, two day, 165 mile, Miami-Key West Ride is now in it’s 16th year and has raised over $11 million to assist HIV related non-profits. Weinzimer’s favorite part of making this
26
happen is seeing everyone come together as a community, with no judgment in order to support one another. Doing this helps the community and keeps alive the memories of friends who have died of AIDS related complications. - JM
SFGN.COM // Best Of LGBT South Florida • Fall 2019
Seven Florida counties recently received $490,000 in funding for HIV/ AIDS prevention services. But one organization in Fort Lauderdale has been aiding the community long before that: Broward House. Broward House offers case management, testing and educational events surrounding HIV. The organization also partners with CAN Community Health, a nonprofit clinic group that has over 30 locations around Florida. South Florida has some of the highest HIV rates in the country, SFGN has previously reported — including Broward County. The organization participates in events all throughout the year to fundraise and spread awareness. They participate in these, and more: • The SMART Ride, an annual bike ride from Miami to Key West that raises money for HIV prevention organizations like Broward House
Be2s0t19of
• World AIDS Day vigil and remembrance walk • Dining Out For Life, a day where purchases from select restaurants go toward local prevention services
Broward House originated as a housing organization that provided medicine, food and mental health services for those who need it — and they still offer housing services with all those benefits. But now, they’ve expanded to provide extensive HIV services with the help of CAN Community Health. Those services include case management, peer support and on-site pharmacies. They also include PrEP, STI and Hep C testing. - KG
broward county
Best Of 2019
Best Production Company Slow Burn Theatre SlowBurnTheatre.org
Slow Burn Theatre Co.’s 10-year rise has been exactly that—a slow, calculated burn. The company’s founders, Patrick Fitzwater and Matthew Korinko, started small in a high school auditorium in West Boca Raton, tackling critically-acclaimed, but commercially unsuccessful musicals. The awards started coming and with them, the exciting opportunity to move to the Broward Center in Fort Lauderdale as a resident company four years ago. That was a risky decision for the plucky company, but it paid off. Audiences are regularly treated to high
quality, large cast Broadway musicals, but the spirit of that hopeful start-up in a modest school auditorium is never lost in the glitz and glamour of the performing arts center. Last season, the company took top honors at the Carbonell Awards for a high energy production of “Memphis” and the 2019-20 10th anniversary season is already off to a big start with productions of “Shrek the Musical” and “A Christmas Story.” - JWA
YOU THANKTIN G US!
FOR NOMINA
PRIDEFACTORY.COM Be2s0t19of
Fall 2019 • Best Of LGBT South Florida // SFGN.COM
27
Best Of 2019
OTHER
broward county
Best Non-Profit &Support group 8
time winner!
Pride Center at Equality Park 2040 North Dixie Highway Wilton Manors pridecenterflorida.org 954-463-9005
For the eighth year in a row, SFGN readers chose the Pride Center at Equality Park to be Broward County’s Best Non-profit organization. Led by Chief Executive Officer Robert Boo and a fine staff of professionals and volunteers, the Pride Center continues to fulfill its mission: to “provide a welcoming, safe space – an inclusive home that celebrates, nurtures and empowers the LGBTQ communities and our friends and neighbors in South Florida.” In 2019 the Pride Center made headlines as the site of the Residences at Equality Park, now under construction. Boo describes the Residences as “the first senior affordable and supportive housing with culturally proficient support programs for the LGBTQ+
“As the needs of the community change, the Pride Center’s programs and services will evolve.” - Robert Boo
Photo credit: Brendon Lies.
28
SFGN.COM // Best Of LGBT South Florida • Fall 2019
Chief Executive Officer of The Pride Center
Be2s0t19of
community. This has been a seven year long process to get to this point.” The Residences, along with the Center’s senior programs, “will give residents a permanent, safe space to live and support services they need to age in place.” The Residences are part of a trend of senior housing communities built in conjunction with LGBTQ centers, including those in Los Angeles, San Diego, Chicago and Philadelphia. But there’s more to the Pride Center than senior housing, of course. According to Boo, “we continue to look for gaps in service to our community. We strive not to duplicate a program or service that is already being provided by culturally proficient sister organizations. As the needs of the community change, the Pride Center’s programs and services will evolve. We continuously hear from the community, and it was also identified in our Master Plan process with the community, that they are looking for cultural, entertainment and educational activities with the Pride Center. We are planning for the future to meet that request and provide those opportunities on our campus.” Besides taking home the top prize for nonprofit the Alcoholics Anonymous meetings at the Pride Center won for Best Support Group. The success of those meetings can no doubt lend itself to the Pride Center’s open and diverse environment. Meetings are held regularly. Call the Center for times. - JM
broward county
Best Of 2019
Best Art Gallery & Best Artist Claudia castillo Claudia castillo art Studio 2215 Wilton Dr Wilton Manors claudiacastilloartstudio.com 954-274-7047
Claudia Castillo won in the Best Artist category. Her studio, the “Castillo Art Studio,” won In the Best Art Gallery categories. She said she likes “being an artist and enjoys meeting and welcoming people to my studio in Wilton Manors.” Her art boutique welcomes everyone. Once there, they can browse its selection of artwork, gifts, and jewelry. Castillo finds sharing her art to be very rewarding. She appreciates it when people connect with the emotions that inspired her art. Her customers give her love, warmth, and energy. When people place her art in their homes and businesses, she
feels honored. Her biggest regret is lacking the time to “explore, develop, and paint” all that inspires her. On her website, she describes her process as being emotionally inspired by nature. She depicted the outcome as “instinctive and spontaneous: simply colors and forms.” Her art includes bracelets, paintings, and sculptures. In a YouTube video, she portrayed her art as expressionist, emotional, and spontaneous. She “tries to bring joy and happiness to this world.” - SMS
Her biggest regret is lacking the time to “explore, develop, and paint” all that inspires her.
A LITTLE BIT OF FAITH AND
PRIDE
SFGN is here for you, no matter who — or what — keeps you going. Read our Spirituality Section to stay in touch with your local religious LGBT community. The only requirement? Be yourself.
SEE MORE ONLINE AT SFGN.COM/TABLE/NEWS/RELIGION
Be2s0t19of
Fall 2019 • Best Of LGBT South Florida // SFGN.COM
29
Best Of 2019
READER’S CHOICE
broward county
Best Cleaning Company Butlers in the Manor ButlersInTheManor.com
Few things are better than coming home to an immaculate house, especially when someone else cleans it. That’s part of what makes Butlers in the Manor so successful. Launched in 2011, Butlers in the Manor provides professional residential cleanings. The company uses a detailed checklist to ensure homes are thoroughly cleaned. Butlers in the Manor owner Andrew Durning recently started offering free cleanings to cancer patients and their caregivers. “I lost my husband of 20 years to cancer,” Durning said. “I know firsthand what the struggle is to keep everything under control. The importance of a clean
30
SFGN.COM // Best Of LGBT South Florida • Fall 2019
Be2s0t19of
environment when battling cancer is what drew me to Cleaning For A Reason.” For more information about this service visit CleaningForaReason.org/. Helping others is how Butlers in the Manor does business. “We want to give back to our community,” Durning said. “We donate to the Stonewall Gala and a couple of churches in the area. You kind of feel good that you’re doing something really good.” The company serves Wilton Manors and its surrounding towns including Oakland Park, Victoria Park and Poinsettia Heights. - DR
These advertisers won awards from the national LGBT media association for their ad campaogns.
Best Live Theater
Best Small Business Campaign
& Outstanding Local lgbt outreach
Broward Center
Nabu
5
201 SW 5th Ave Fort Lauderdale browardcenter.org 954-462-0222
3485 N Federal Hwy, Fort Lauderdale nabuamericanfusionbuffet.com
time winner!
The Broward Center for the Performing Arts (BCPA) remains the cultural center of Fort Lauderdale. With a range of performances including Hamilton, Fiddler on the Roof, Les Miserables to the Hip Hop Nutcracker, Trisha Yearwood, and much more, this is the place to see top entertainment in Broward County. “The Broward Center does an amazing job of bringing incredible shows to our area,” says theatergoer Jessica Barnes. “From the sound system to the knowledgeable ushers, BCPA is my favorite destination for experiencing live performances.” If you go, you should know that shows typically start on time and parking is convenient. There are plenty of places to dine in the area if you want to grab a bite before a show.
Best Of 2019
If you are a sushi lover NABU is the place for you. There’s a wide variety of sushi sashimi and nigiri. The rolls are fresh. The hibachi station offers options galore, including a cornucopia of seafood, abundant quantities of perfectly cooked crab legs (at dinner), oysters, cooked shrimp and two kinds of ceviche. The cooked bar also offers all the Asian classics, Chinese, Japanese and even some Thai options. The choices range from pepper beef, grilled fish, gyoza, shrimp tempura, all offered by the previous management. The NABU team has also added chicken curry, Japanese eggplant and sautéed long-beans. Soup options include miso, hot and sour and won ton among others. In addition to the spinach with sesame seeds marinated in a soy-mirin blend, also known as gomae, salad options include
The Broward Center for the Performing Arts is located in the Riverwalk Arts & Entertainment District at 201 SW Fifth Avenue in Fort Lauderdale. The Parker Playhouse, located in Holiday Park at 707 N.E. Eighth Street in Fort Lauderdale, is an affiliated venue of the Broward Center for the Performing Arts. For more information and a list of upcoming events and performances, visit BrowardCenter.org.
seaweed, cucumber and Caesar salads. For those into desserts Asian restaurants are usually a disappointment. Almond and fortune cookies in Chinese restaurants and red bean paste based treats in Japanese. NABU instead offers a wider variety, although most are more familiar to western palates: cheesecake, pecan pie, assorted pastries and an ice cream case featuring five western flavors, as well as green tea. For the price (weekday lunch is $12.95, dinner is $21.95; weekend lunch $13.95, dinner is $23.95) and variety, NABU can’t be beat. The restaurant is very LGBT friendly and a supporter of the community. - SFGN Staff
- DR
Outstanding International LGBT Support Wells Fargo’s support for the LGBT community has been unwavering for more than three decades. The company has scored a perfect 100 percent on the Human Rights Campaign’s Corporate Equality Index for each of the last 14 years. The financial institution’s pioneering efforts have helped model the definition of inclusivity and acceptance in the workplace. Mitchell Bloom the Branch Manager is also on the Board of Poverello and very active in the community. His mission and the mission of Wells Fargo is summarized below: • Customer service and advice. After listening to and understanding our customers and their financial goals, we want to provide exceptional service and guidance to help them succeed financially.
• Team member engagement. Our team members are our most valuable resource. We want to be the employer of choice — a place where people feel included, valued, and supported; everyone is respected; and we work as a team. • Innovation. Through innovative thinking, industry-leading technology, and a willingness to test and learn, we create lasting value for customers — and increased efficiency for our operations. • Risk management. While working to set the global standard in managing all forms of risk, we want to serve customers’ needs and protect their assets, information, and privacy. • Corporate citizenship. We make a positive contribution to communities through philanthropy, advancing diversity and inclusion, creating
Wells Fargo 2525 N DIXIE HWY WILTON MANORS 954-233-0468 economic opportunity, and promoting environmental sustainability. • Shareholder value. We want to deliver long-term value for shareholders through a balanced business model, strong risk discipline, efficient execution, and a world-class team. • Explore a journal of how we help customers succeed, help communities thrive, and live our vision, values, and goals every day
- SFGN Staff
Be2s0t19of
Fall 2019 • Best Of LGBT South Florida // SFGN.COM
31
Best Of 2019
Best Straight Bar
Best Vegan
Best Fine Dining
Best Bar for Lesbians
Flip Flops Dockside Eatery
Milk Money Bar & Kitchen 815 NE 13th Street, Fort Lauderdale
Kaluz
3300 E Commercial Blvd, Fort Lauderdale
Sound Bar Wilton Manors
Best Restaurant and Burger
Best Hot Dog
Best Bar for Bears & Best Leather Bar
Best Pizza
3051 NE 32nd Ave, Fort Lauderdale
Rosie’s Bar & Grill
Hot Dog Heaven
SoundBar-Wilton.com
2449 Wilton Dr, Wilton Manors
101 E Sunrise Blvd, Fort Lauderdale
1508 NE 4th Ave, Fort Lauderdale
Ramrod
Bona Italian Pizza
Best Fried Chicken
Best Thrift Store
Best Sports Team
Best New Restaurant
Publix
Out of the closet
The Pub Riptide
Tropics Grille
2633 N Dixie Hwy, Wilton Manors
outofthecloset.org
Best Sports League South Florida Armature Athletic Association SFAAAsoftball.com
32
more winners
broward county
SFGN.COM // Best Of LGBT South Florida • Fall 2019
bonaitalian.com
facebook.com/RiptideSoftballFLL
Best Business Group Wilton Manors Business Association facebook.com/ wiltonmanorsbusinessassociation
Be2s0t19of
2000 Wilton Drive, Wilton Manors
Best Place to Workout Crunch
3500 N Andrews Ave, Oakland Park
Best Of 2019
broward county
1470 AM
95.3 FM
Best Bar Staff
Best Musician & Local Celebrity
Scandals Saloon
Jennifer McClain
3073 NE 6th Ave, Fort Lauderdale
Artist, musician
Afternoon Drive... local and LIVE. Call-in line: 888-565-1470
2-4 P.M. MONDAY - FRIDAY
See past shows on youtube at
Best Chef
bit.ly/2OzWjlI
Josie Smith-Malave
Live streaming • wwnnradio.com
Bubbles
OUT NOW!! ON A RED RACK NEAR YOU
Best Drink and Best Happy Hour
Best Ethnic Food
DrYnk Bar & Lounge
Ethos
Smokey Old Fashioned
S O U T H
F L O R I D A
G A Y
MENT
ARTS & ENTERTAIN
N E W S
Vol. 8 Issue 4 • September - October 2019
W E I V PRE
2055 Wilton Dr, Wilton Manors
Be2s0t19of
Y OMED C M O FR D .. TER. RTAINE A E H NTE TO T
To read about these winners, visit
EE
SFGN.com/BestOF2019
ALL READ IT ONLINE AT THEMIRRORMAG.COM
Be2s0t19of
EED
Y
N OU
B TO
PICTURED: ANDY COHEN AND ANDERSON COOPER. PHOTO VIA TWITTER.
Fall 2019 • Best Of LGBT South Florida // SFGN.COM
33
34
SFGN.COM // Best Of LGBT South Florida • Fall 2019
Be2s0t19of
Be2s0t19of
Fall 2019 • Best Of LGBT South Florida // SFGN.COM
35
Best Of 2019
Miami-dade County
Miami-dade county
Best Bar, Best Business, Best Kept Secret & Best Activist Hôtel Gaythering 1409 Lincoln Rd Miami Beach Gaythering.com
How can the same place be the Best Bar and Best Business and still be a secret? Your guess is as good as ours, but Hôtel Gathering somehow pulled it off winning 6 Best Of awards — Best Bar, Best Business, Best Kept Secret, plus three of its staff won for Best Drag Queen, Best Bartender and Best Activist. Hôtel Gaythering is nestled at the end of Lincoln Road in a quiet residential neighborhood in Miami Beach. This eclectic gathering spot is a boutique hotel, bar and men’s sauna. It’s an adults only playground for locals and visitors alike. The bar is the anchor of activity at this thriving Miami Beach hotel. Each day is programmed with themed nights and activities to keep the fun flowing. With spacious rooms, an onsite clothing optional sauna and a free shuttle to the famous Haulover nude beach, it is unsurprising that Hôtel Gaythering continues to be a premiere hotel destination for LGBT vacation goers visiting Miami Beach. “Hôtel Gaythering is a special place to our patrons and especially to me. I like to call our bar/hotel our community center because, it is a safe space where you can come to be yourself and just enjoy the company of others,” said Zach R., winner of the Best Bartender award. “It’s also pretty neat to watch how our hotel guests blend in with our locals and by the end of their stay, built strong friendships and relationships that last a lifetime.”
36
The Hôtel Gaythering has a space for every kind of patron. Whether you’re there for Trivia Wednesday’s or enjoying a day pass to the clothing optional Sauna, this friendly and inviting boutique Hotel provides a safe space for LGBT locals and travelers to enjoy some fun in the sun. The bar brings to Miami Beach the comfortability of a local small-town gay bar. Void of the thundering sounds of Washington Avenue and Ocean Drive, this cozy watering hole provides an environment for more than just gyrating glittersoaked bodies. There is always something to do like karaoke, boozie bingo, and Bear’s & Hare’s each week. “We have theme nights almost every night, community outreach events, access to free and private STI screenings, and much more, so there is always something to do,” Zach said. Maybe you will connect with love of your life or maybe you’ll connect with the love of your night, either way you’re sure to enjoy your time at the Hôtel Gaythering and all of its wonders. In addition owner Alex Guerra won for Best Activist. He’s also the founder the annual art show, Art Gaysel, a five day event that runs during Art Basel, the international art fair that takes place in Miami Beach every year. - JP
SFGN.COM // Best Of LGBT South Florida • Fall 2019
Be2s0t19of
Miami-dade County
broward county
Best Drag Queen & Best Theme Night
Best Of 2019
Best Bartender
Blamie Forret
Zach R.
Hôtel Gaythering
HÔtel Gaythering 1409 Lincoln Rd. Miami Beach 786-284-1176 Gaythering.com
Blamie Forret might be new to the drag scene, but she sure has already made a splash and quite a name for herself. “I still can’t believe I was nominated and won these awards with only doing drag for a year,” she said. “I have to give so many thanks to Rome Frost, Alex Guerra, the staff at Gaythering, and all the people that come to my Bingo night/events and support me.” Blamie had quite the resume before becoming a drag queen. “I’ve worked about 47 different jobs,” she said. “I’ve been a dog trainer, soccer coach, account executive, waiter, and pool boy. I currently work full time at Gaythering doing the front desk, weekend supervisor, and various other things here.” But she’s always had an inner queen inside and said she’s always wanted to do
“Because of the unique ‘comedy queen’ I have grown to be, it has become a huge success.” - Blamie Forret Drag Queen
drag as long as she can remember. “I played around with makeup and watched hundreds of YouTube videos to teach myself how to do makeup,” she said. But it wasn’t until she saw a job posting to drive a shuttle at Hôtel Gaythering that her drag career took off. “Other bars and clubs in Miami told me ‘you don’t wanna do drag, don’t bother,’” she said. “Gaythering was the only place that didn’t automatically shut me down. So in the application I said ‘hey you want an amateur drag queen as well as a shuttle driver?” They said yes — obviously. Blamie also won for her weekly drag bingo, Blamie’s Boozie Bingo, for Best Theme Night at Hôtel Gaythering. She said doesn’t focus on “death drops” and “splits” to impress people at the bar. Instead she said, “I spend hours hosting, talking to people, getting to know each individual at an event, cracking jokes, and after events I go out with the people I met, which creates a very intimate, unique, and fun experience.” Her drag bingo night was suggested to her by the hotel’s owner, Alex Guerra. It started just 8 months ago. “Because of the unique ‘comedy queen’ I have grown to be, it has become a huge success,” Blamie said. “Almost every night is packed.” Make sure you catch Blamie on Thursday nights at 9 p.m. for drag bingo at Hôtel Gaythering. - JEP
For 4 and half years Zach has been serving up drinks (and facial expressions) for locals at the Hôtel Gaythering in Miami Beach. This year he wins SFGN’s award for Best Bartender. “I truly give 100 percent when I am behind the bar and care about consistency, quality and efficiency. Every time you come to get a drink from me it should and will taste the same as the last,” Zach said. “I will also add, my facial expressions while interacting with guests can be quite entertaining from what I have been told.” Zach loves bartending. For him it’s not all about the drink though. “Bartending for me is not only about the craft alone but about the relationships you build with your guests and coworkers,” he said. “I love the flexibility it gives me to travel the world and it allows me to share these experiences with my patrons.” If you happen to catch Zach bartending make sure you order an Old Fashioned or Manhattan. “I always tell my guests who are trying one of my cocktails for the first time that the key to getting a good Old Fashioned is to order from an Old Fashioned drinker,” Zach said. For Zach the Gaythering isn’t just a job it’s truly a home away from home.
Be2s0t19of
“It’s a special place to our patrons and especially to me,” he said. “On nights I am not working you will probably see me here anyways catching up with friends or just interacting with our guests.” Make sure you stop by the Gaythering Wednesdays through Saturdays to catch Zach working. The hotel offers happy hour from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. every single day with daily drink specials that run all night long. - JEP
“Bartending for me is not only about the craft alone but about the relationships you build with your guests and coworkers.” - Zach R.
Hôtel Gaythering
Fall 2019 • Best Of LGBT South Florida // SFGN.COM
37
Best Of 2019
Miami-dade County
Miami-dade county
Best DJ
Best Artist/ Musician
DJ Hottpants
facebook.com/djhottpantsmiami
Photo courtesy of DJ Hottpants. Credit: RadSkillz.
Robbie Elias
Instagram: @RobbieEliasOfficial Singer song writer Robbie Elias has built an impressive Grammy Award winning career within the music industry as an emerging singer song writer and backup vocalist for some of the biggest names in Latin Pop music. Throughout a now robust and growing career, Robbie has pulled from his Latin roots but says his sound has evolved over the years into a blend of many genres’ representative of the cultural melting pot he grew up in as South Florida native. Born in Miami to a Cuban guitarist/ songwriter father and a professional vocalist mother, Robbie said he has always been fortunate to have supportive parents. Whether it was the dreams he pursued or the gender of his heart’s attraction, his parents were always front row as his number one fans.
As a proud gay artist, Robbie said he hopes his representation in the Latin Pop industry will inspire young fans to “take the risk and reach for their dream, no matter how big.” Currently on tour with Puerto Rican super star Daddy Yankee, Robbie’s professional life continues to climb to new heights. With new music on the way and a busy touring schedule ahead, Robbie has cemented his place in Latin Pop Music for years to come.
His name may be DJ Hottpants but he’s more than willing to take his music into the cold — this year he traveled to Alaska to DJ at Anchorage Pride. “It was my first visit to Alaska,” he said. “I had such a fantastic time this past year. I was honored to DJ at Miami Beach Pride, and Wynwood Pride.” You can catch Hottpants at Gramps in Wynwood every Thursday night for
- JP
Double Stubble. “Being active in the queer community and helping connect people to the amazing non-profits and other organizations doing great work in South Florida is such a gift,” he said. “Most of all, thanks for shaking your booty with me... in front of, or behind, the decks.” - JEP
Best Non-Profit and Best Annual Event Miami Beach Pride miamibeachpride.com
Miami Beach Pride is a show stopping annual social event of the South Florida LGBT community. Each year the festival welcomes droves of travelers and locals to the sun and sand filled beaches to enjoy the now nine-day festival of fun and celebration. Kicked off with a Pride Flag raising ceremony, the parade and festival have continued to grow, including 90-plus parade contingencies, 30-plus floats and over 3,000 participants. With the expansion of the festival from a week-long event to a nine-day celebration, Miami Beach Pride 2020 is slated to be an even larger and more vibrant event than before. Saturday and Sunday feature two stages with world-class DJs, entertainers, and
38
celebrity entertainers along with 125-plus vendor booths, food and cocktail options. The festival also includes the Pridelines Youth District and Safe Zone, Lambda Living Lounge, BB&T Food Pavilion, “The Garden of Eve” Women’s tent, and many family friendly activities. Now in its twelfth year, the hugely successful event has grown from 15,000 attendees in 2009, to a staggering 145,000 people. It all began in 2008, spearheaded by then Mayor of Miami Beach, Matti Bower as an initiative of the Miami Beach Gay Business Development Council. This annual event has earned the distinction of “Top 100 Events of the Year” for the fifth year in a
SFGN.COM // Best Of LGBT South Florida • Fall 2019
row by BizBash Magazine. The organization also recently named a new Executive Director, Rich Walczak. “Miami Beach Pride breaks attendance records every year,” said, Bruce Horwich, chairman of the board. “As our community grows and becomes more diverse, it’s our duty to develop programming celebrating
Be2s0t19of
all facets of our LGBTQ+ community here in Miami Beach and beyond. Rich Walczak brings the LGBTQ+ and international event management experience we need to achieve our goals in providing more inclusive and educational programming.” - JP
Best Of 2019
MIAMI-DADE
more winners Best Burger
Best Restaurant
BurgerFi
R House
BurgerFI.com
RhouseWynwood.com
Best Activity For Tourist Palace Drag Brunch PalaceSouthBeach.com
Best Pizza
Best Live Theater
Steve’s Pizza
Villain Theater
StevesPizzas.net
VillainTheater.com
Be2s0t19of To read about these winners, visit
SFGN.com/BestOF2019 Be2s0t19of
Fall 2019 • Best Of LGBT South Florida // SFGN.COM
39
Best Of 2019
PALM BEACH County
PALM BEACH COUNTY
Best Bar, Business & Theme Night (Karaoke) With 35 years of continuous operation, H.G. Rooster’s is the oldest gay bar in Palm Beach County. A short distance from I-95 there’s easy access from north and south. The bar is well maintained and the staff is always welcoming at any time Sunday through Thursday from 3 p.m. to 3 a.m.; Friday and Saturday 3 p.m. to 4 a.m. Happy Hour runs every day from 3 to 9 and features $2.50 wells and domestics. “There are entertainments every night from Monday Bingo to Throwback Thursday and all the nights between,” said Manager David Kazen. This includes this year’s Best Theme Night, Rooster’s Sunday Night Karaoke with Jeremy. It’s been on Sunday nights for about 20 years and runs from 11 p.m. to 2 a.m. Off Key Karaoke Inc. runs the show. It’s owned by Jared Scott. Jeremy works for the company. “It’s always been a winner,” said Kazen. “That’s why it’s run for so long. It has relaxed vibe with some pretty amazing singers, locals and others touring at near by playhouses.” This is the 6th year Rooster has won the Best of Bar. It also won for Best Business and Best of Theme Night. Additionally long time bartender Phillip won for this year’s Best Bartender.
H. G. Rooster’s 823 Belvedere Rd West Palm Beach 561-832-9119 “The Roosters family is thrilled to receive so much recognition and love from all of our customers and the Palm Beach County community. Our staff and our customers are the heart and soul of our business. This year we celebrated our 35th anniversary and we look forward to being with and being part of the community for many years to come,” added owner AJ Wasson. “A special shout out to our bartender Phillip on his best bartender win, and to our Sunday night karaoke crew. Sunday night karaoke has been a part of Roosters for 25 plus years.” Submitted photo.
- DC
Best Neighborhood
Best Restaurant & Burger Howleys Restaurant
6
Northwood Village
time winner!
northwoodvillage.com
4700 S Dixie Hwy West Palm Beach This is the sixth time Howley’s has won Best Restaurant. It is also the first year the restaurant took the award for Best Burger. While observing landmark dates, it should be noted that the restaurant celebrated 69 years since it was first opened by Patrick Howley in August, 1950. Finally, fifteen years ago, the Subculture Group restored and updated the restaurant with inside and outside seating and a diner countertop with high stools for those inclined to enjoy the nostalgia of watching a short order cook prepare a number of dishes according to Howley’s original marketing pitch, “Cooked in
40
sight… So it must be right.” “We have an eclectic menu,” said Nicole Nichols, manager. “We try to offer something for everyone so you can have meat, fish, vegetarian and vegan meals. We also have a full bar and a variety of other beverages and desserts.” The Howley Burger is half a pound of pure ground beef grilled to your taste and topped with “anything” on the menu, according to Nichols. - DC
SFGN.COM // Best Of LGBT South Florida • Fall 2019
According to Palm Beach Illustrated, the West Palm Beach gem, Northwood Village is reminiscent of northern California or bohemian European capitals, where walking is encouraged and boutique doors are open and inviting. They also describe it as a place where hipsters, fashionistas, foodies, and designers gather. “Northwood has a variety of small shops, restaurants, and art galleries that allow visitors and locals to enjoy a night out while also being located in a quiet historic neighborhood,” said Ernie Gonzalez Center Operations Director for Compass and Northwood resident. “It’s a nice blend of old fashioned and modern which makes it accessible to all.” Some of the more notable businesses include Leo’s Crab Shack, Melanies’ Thrift and Things, Jai Bella Boutique Hair Salon,
Be2s0t19of
and The Youth Concept Gallery. One of the biggest events hosted in Northwood is the annual Northwoodstock. In addition to winning Best Neighborhood, NWV has also been voted one of the top 10 best instagrammable places in Palm Beach County. - DCJ
PALM BEACH County
Best Nonprofit Compass Community Center
Best Activist
6
time winner!
5
time winner!
201 North Dixie Lake Worth Beach CompassGLCC.com According to the website, Compass’ mission is “To engage, empower and enrich the lives of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer (LGBTQ) people and those impacted by HIV and AIDS.” “That’s what we do,” said Julie Seaver, Executive Director. “We’ve expanded the board with new members eager to increase our ability to fulfill our mission.” Some of the steps Seaver has taken to extend Compass’ services since she was hired last year include: hiring three bilingual staff members to better serve our expanding diverse populations; supporting a monthly
Best Of 2019
PALM BEACH COUNTY
Julie Seaver Compass 201 N Dixie Hwy Lake Worth Beach
coffee clatch to encourage LGBT seniors to make use of Compass’ facilities; and developing a program for trans children ages 3 to 12 and their families called Authentically YOUth. Seaver has 25 staff members supported by hundreds of volunteers. She increases the Center’s reach further by opening the facilities to LGBT organizations who then call Compass home. This is the sixth year Compass has won this award. - DC
Best Drag Queen Melissa St. John
Submitted photo.
6
H.G. Rooster’s 823 Belvedere Rd. West Palm Beach RoostersWPB.com 561-832-9119 When thinking of drag queens in West Palm Beach, Melissa St. John is always top of mind. This is the sixth consecutive year SFGN readers named her Best Drag Queen! Her reaction was sincere, “Who-Hoo! #BreakingRecords!” But it’s how she does it that’s important. Melissa St. John’s trailblazing influence extends way beyond the stage. She is the official host of Palm Beach County’s PrideFest, she’s the entertainment director at Rooster’s, and she is affectionately known as the First Lady of the Palm Beaches. Glamour combined with wit is Melissa St. John’s signature. She is both a thoroughly entertaining performer and a fantastic host. Melissa draws crowds in with her expressive
time winner!
performances. No matter whom she’s working with, Melissa’s personality simultaneously stands out and complements others. Around South Florida, Melissa is known as much for philanthropy as she is for performing. Throughout her career, she’s helped those in need by raising money for organizations that help fighting hunger, HIV/AIDS, and other issues that affect the LGBT community. Melissa performs in the upcoming Divas Holiday Party on Dec. 6 at the Lake Worth Playhouse.
Twenty years ago, Julie Seaver found Compass and Forrest Shearin’s weekly coming out group while she searched for help in understanding what was happening in her life. She started attending the coming out group regularly and soon became a volunteer at the agency. Subsequently, she was hired to work on development and fund raising for the Center. She held a number of positions and in 2018 she became interim executive director and then full time executive director. “I used to think that being an activist meant you had to be angry all the time but have come to know so many activists who go calmly about their work helping others with love and passion,” Seaver said. “I am honored to receive this award and gladly share it with all the activists who help make Palm Beach a safer place for all.” - DC
- DR
Be2s0t19of
“I used to think that being an activist meant you had to be angry all the time but have come to know so many activists who go calmly about their work helping others with love and passion.” - Julie Seaver
Executive Director of Compass
Fall 2019 • Best Of LGBT South Florida // SFGN.COM
41
Best Of 2019
PALM BEACH County
PALM BEACH COUNTY
Best Bartender
Best Politician 4
Phillip Parks
time winner!
Rep. Lois Frankel
Rooster’s 823 Belvedere Rd West Palm Beach
frankel.house.gov
Rep Lois Frankel has held a number of elected positions during her long career in politics. She is currently representing Florida residents in the 21st District of the U.S. House of Representatives. She is a proud original cosponsor of the Equality Act. When she was in Palm Beach at the beginning of October, she made it a point to visit Compass’ Coffee Clatch for senior LGBT people mingling with the group of around 50 people. She sent the following, “I’m honored to be recognized by your readers. It is truly a privilege to stand with the LGBTQ+ community and fight for equality for all in the United States Congress, especially
during a time when so many wish to take us backwards.” This is the 4th time Rep. Frankel has won the Best Palm Beach Politician. - DC
Want to meet the Best Bartender in Palm Beach County? Stop by Roosters on Wednesdays through Sundays from 9 p.m. to closing and shake hands with Phillip Parks, a Louisiana native who joined Roosters eight years ago having moved to South Florida some 16 years prior. Roosters is involved in a number of nonprofit fundraising projects and Parks said he likes working on them. In fact, he rode in the last four Smart Rides – the 165 mile bicycle ride from Miami to Key West to raise funds for HIV/AIDS organizations. He admits hat he is taking a “me break” this year. He will attend the event but not participate on a bike. Parks is 41 and not married although he is in a relationship. He loves working at Rooster’s.
Best Social Group Their twice weekly tunning events can take many different routes through downtown West Palm Beach and across the Intracoastal to Palm Beach Island.
42
Every Monday and Thursday night at 8 p.m., Night Runners meets up at Howard Park at 1302 Parker Avenue (Parker & Okeechobee at the parking lot next to the basketball courts). Night Runners was founded as a MeetUp group on Dec. 1, 2016 and has grown to more than 500 members over the intervening 3 years organizing 232 events as of mid-November 2019. Their twice weekly tunning events can take many different routes through downtown West Palm Beach and across the Intracoastal to Palm Beach Island. One of the members posted the following: “A great welcoming group. I always have a lot of fun running with them. The course varies but it’s always interesting and very scenic.” Although everyone is welcome, the group has a queer flavor with many of its members from the local LGBT community. This is the first time Night Runners has won a Best Of. - DC
SFGN.COM // Best Of LGBT South Florida • Fall 2019
Be2s0t19of
“The customers, staff and management make it a pleasure to come to work,” he said. - DC
Night Runners 1302 Parker Avenue West Palm Beach MeetUp.com/Night-Runners-WPB
PALM BEACH COUNTY
Best Of 2019
Best Gallery
3
time winner!
The Box Gallery 811 Belvedere Rd West Palm Beach theboxgallery.info For the second year in a row The Box Gallery has won Best Gallery in Palm Beach County. The Box Gallery has become one of the premier galleries in West Palm Beach, not to mention, it’s only been established for three years. Their exhibitions have proven to be informative, thought-provoking, and inspiring. Although Rolando Chang Barrero is an openly gay artist, he works tirelessly to make sure his gallery is all inclusive. This past March gallery owner Rolando Chang Barrero contributed to Palm Beach Pride in a memorable way. He created panels in recognition of influential LGBT advocates in the community, like Melissa St.John and Andy Amoroso, just to name a few.
“Im very proud to lead the way for arts advocacy and community development,” said Chang Barrero, gallery curator and owner. “The gallery has become the place where to view and engage in deeper dialogue about trends and directions of the contemporary art scene. Our success has been due to our spirit of community embracing everyone from our furry friends and radical fairies to the academics and affluent. - DCJ
Be2s0t19of
Fall 2019 • Best Of LGBT South Florida // SFGN.COM
43
DAY WITH (OUT) ART
THE BOX GALLERY
Best Of 2019
VISUAL AIDS
811 BELVEDERE ROAD WPB
COMPASS AT THE BOX GALLERY DECEMBER 1, 2019 | 3-9 PM
GET TESTED FOR HIV AND FIND OUT ABOUT PREP!
THE BOX GALLERY
H.G. ROOSTERS
811 BELVEDERE ROAD | WEST PALM BEACH
WWW.THEBOXGALLERY.INFO
#knowyourstatus
Get tested. Get PrEP. Get treatment.
PALM BEACH
more winners Best Kept Secret
Best Straight Bar
The Book Cellar
801 Lake Avenue, Lake Worth Beach
Foster’s, Respectibles, and Revelry West Palm Beach
Best Theater Lake Worth Playhouse 713 Lake Ave, Lake Worth
now offering #knowyourstatus #knowyourstatus #knowyourstatus #knowyourstatus
SAME DAY PrEP Get tested, Get PrEP or get treatment Get treatment. Gettested. tested.Get Get PrEP. PrEP. Get Get treatment. at Midway Specialty Care Center with At Midway Specialty Care Center with Dr. Howard A. Grossman Dr. Howard A. Grossman now offering
At Midway Specialty Care Center we are “InSAME a world where I DAY could be anything, I chose a todos. Come as you are. PrEP able to“Bienvenidos start almost everyone on same day to be kind. I became a medical assistant so We speak Spanish, Portuguese, and that I can play aand part inwithout caring for people. PrEP, those with insurance. At Midway Specialty Care Center we are English to provide comprehensive HIV Health and happiness are noton privileges, able to start same day care andalmost PrEP toeveryone our community.” they are a human right. ” PrEP, those with and without insurance.
Best Place to Workout Planet Fitness PlanetFitness.com
Best Pizza Pizza Girls
114 S Clematis Street, West Palm Beach
Of f ice Supervisor,
Nelson Rodriguez, HOWARD A, GROSSMAN Christine Gonzalez Assistant HOWARD A,Medical GROSSMAN MD MD NOW ACCEPTING JONATHAN ALBERS PA-CPA-C JONATHAN ALBERS NOW NEW PATIENTS.
ACCEPTING NOW ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS. CALL TODAY! NEW PATIENTS. NOW ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS. CALL TODAY! CALL TODAY!
CALL TODAY! 954-530-8357
954-530-8357 2500 NE 15th Ave | Wilton Manors, FL 33305
954-530-8357 954-530-8357 2500 NE 15th Ave | Wilton Manors, FL 33305
2500 NE 15th Ave | Wilton Manors, FL 33305 44
2500 NE 15th Ave | Wilton Manors, FL 33305 Best of SFGN.COM // Best Of LGBT South Florida • Fall 2019 2019
Be2s0t19of To read about these winners, visit
SFGN.com/BestOF2019
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
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 Be2s0t19of
Fall 2019 • Best Of LGBT South Florida // SFGN.COM
45
Best Of 2019 3
time winner!
KEY WEST
KEY WEST
Best Bar Aqua 711 Duval St Key West AquaKeyWest.com 305-294-0555
Aqua has won Best Bar and much of that, if not all, seems owed to the popularity of its drag shows. This is the third time Aqua has won for Best Bar. Aqua holds two inside bars for watching the drag shows and occasional karaoke, then there is the Side Bar, which features the latest dance music and videos, and an outside bar in the back for the more quiet cocktails. In other words, there is always a perfect space for just your mood. “The owners and staff at Aqua are excited to be recognized as Key West’s premier club. Throughout the complex we have nightly drag shows at Aqua and the best dance club atmosphere and DJs in the Keys at Sidebar,” said Kimball Ingram, owner of Aqua. “We love everyone because we believe the best nights are inclusive
Best Drag Queen
Submitted photo.
Maya Montana Aqua Nightclub
nights. Thank you to everyone who has visited and who voted for us!” Aqua’s drag ensemble is made up of six performers, known as the Aquanettes. There’s a nightly performance, usually featuring three Aquanettes at a time. Aqua describes it as “fun, raucous and a quintessential part of Key West life.” One yelp reviewer writes “Amazing night here. High quality, professional show, great costumes and music, all around fabulous time!” - NA
For 25 years Maya Montana has been entertaining crowds with her drag performances. And she’s not slowing down any time soon! She is thrilled to have been name this year’s Best Drag Queen in Key West. “I am so humbled and grateful that people think I’m deserving of this honor. I’ve been doing this art form of female impersonation for 25 years and I genuinely love what I do and I will continue to do my best to entertain people and work as hard as possible to deserve this great honor,” she said.
You can Maya at Aqua Nightclub in Key West. The bar has shows 7 nights a week. “Thank you once again for all of those that voted for me,” she said. “Me love you long time!” - JEP
Best Activist & Bartender Ryan Acker Bourbon Street Pub
In Key West Ryan Acker is known as the “King of Fundraising” and he attributes that to him being named as Best Activist. This year he also named King of Fantasy Fest because of his fundraising abilities. All of those who were nominated for that title raised a total of $130,000. “I really like everything that I do. I orchestrate these things. But it takes the people in the community to make these things happen. It’s really a team effort all of the way around. I appreciate everyone voted for me. It’s cool.” Ryan also won for Best Bartender,
46
which surprised him. “I don’t think it was because of my bartending,” he said. “I just have a huge following. People like to be involved with the various things I do. We are a tight knit community here in Key West.” He’s worked at the Bourbon Street Pub full time for the past two years. His specialty? Peanut Butter and Jelly shots, which consists of raspberry Stoli, amaretto, Frangelico, and cranberry juice. “People love them,” he said. People love them, but they also love him. - JEP
SFGN.COM // Best Of LGBT South Florida • Fall 2019
Submitted photo.
Be2s0t19of
Fall 2019 • Best Of LGBT South Florida // SFGN.COM
47
Best Of 2019
KEY WEST
KEY WEST
Best Annual Event Key West comes alive as a veritable playground during this raucous festival of debauchery for the LGBT community.
Fantasy Fest fantasyfest.com
No annual event pushes the boundaries of creativity or freedom of expression quite like Fantasy Fest, the annual Halloween spectacular held each year in Key West. Fantasy Fest goers revel in the opportunity to share their over the top costumes while enjoying the dazzling parade and street side parties along Duval Street. With tributes to musical icons, skimpy costumes and a parade of no shame artistic and personal expression, this is the most thrilling Halloween experience of the year. Key West comes alive as a veritable playground during this raucous festival of debauchery for the LGBT community. Guest Houses throughout Key West
host parties for every kink and culture, ensuring festival goers will enjoy the experience of a lifetime. Florida Keys tourism officials say Fantasy Fest brings approximately $30 million in revenues to the island chain each year with festival goers enjoying the many local business and clothing optional guest houses. Harness your inner Gatsby and prepare to enjoy another epic Halloween celebration when Fantasy Fest kicks off its 40th Anniversary celebration with its theme “Roaring 20-20’s and Future Fictions” from Oct. 16-25, 2020. - JP
3
Best NonProfit
time winner!
AH Monroe AHmonroe.org
Three decades ago, a group of Key West locals gathered on a back porch to pool their limited resources to confront their shared frustration at the growing loss of life in their community to HIV/AIDS. With hope and very little resources, five founding board members set out to create an agency on the island that could help make a difference in the lives of their neighbors, friends and loved ones who were traversing the dark early years of the AIDS crisis. In those trying times, Key West became a natural landing space for those suffering from the disease. Many of whom whose diagnosis had ostracized them from their families, communities and occupations. AIDS Help (now A.H. Monroe County, Inc.) began with a simple shared mission, “to help people in their community live to see another day.” In the years that followed, A.H. would grow to become more than a helping
48
SFGN.COM // Best Of LGBT South Florida • Fall 2019
Be2s0t19of
hand in the darkest of times. Over its thirty-year span, A.H. has served over three thousand clients and continues to be an anchor of hope for the Key West community. The Agency hosts a wide variety of charitable work; including case management services, affordable housing, counseling, testing, educational outreach and more. Their mission of helping people see another day has evolved into a variety of support services which continue to help neighbors, friends and loved ones living with HIV in the Key West community lead long full lives. - JP
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.
Be2s0t19of
Fall 2019 • Best Of LGBT South Florida // SFGN.COM
49
Best Of 2019
KEY WEST
more winners Best Pizza
Best Key Lime Pie Kermit’s Key West Key Lime Shoppe KeyLimeShop.com
Mr. Z’s Pizza
501 Southard St. at Duval, Key West
Best Restaurant Santiago’s Bodega 207 Petronia St., Key West
Best Kept Secret & Best Burger Moondog Cafe Key West
Best Activity for Tourists Key West Butterfly & Nature Conservatory
823 Whitehead St, Key West
1316 Duval Street, Key West
Be2s0t19of To read about these winners, visit
SFGN.com/BestOF2019 50
SFGN.COM // Best Of LGBT South Florida • Fall 2019
Be2s0t19of
Nite Club Law
Join us on Friday Nov 22 from 6-9 p.m. for our
If you drink, don’t drive. If you drive, don’t drink. If you do both, call us.
Grand Opening Celebration. AFTER 75 YEARS, NEW YORK’S ICONIC BOUTIQUE IS HERE IN FORT LAUDERDALE.
Criminal Defense Law Center
Join us for food, drinks, music and surprises Everyone will receive a bag of Boyd’s goodies to take home
954.763.1900 Norman Elliott Kent
Russell Cormican
2520 N Dixie Hwy Wilton Manors, FL 33305
12 S.E. 7th Street, Suite 700 Fort Lauderdale, FL 33301
MEN’S GROOMING • GIFTS • COSMETICS
BOYD’S
www.NormKent.com
MADISON AVENUE
L u x u r y b e a u t y p ro d u c t s s i n c e 1 9 4 0
Be2s0t19of
2412 N. DIXIE HIGHWAY WILTON MANORS, FL 33305 954-990-4698 BOYDSMADISONAVE.COM
Fall 2019 • Best Of LGBT South Florida // SFGN.COM
51
HIVcare.org
Rebekka, AHF Client
AHF HEALTHCARE CENTERS
52
KINDER (SOUTH MIAMI) 3661 S MIAMI AVE, STE 806 (786) 497-4000
MIAMI (JACKSON NORTH) 100 NW 170TH ST, STE 208 (305) 405-0045
OAKLAND PARK 1164 E OAKLAND PARK BLVD, 3RD FL (954) 561-6900
SOUTH BEACH 4308 ALTON RD, STE 950 (305) 538-1400
NORTHPOINT 6405 N FEDERAL HWY, STE 205 (954) 772-2411
DOWNTOWN FORT LAUDERDALE 700 SE 3RD AVE, STE 301 (954) 767-0887
SFGN.COM // Best Of LGBT South Florida • Fall 2019
Be2s0t19of
in memoriam
In loving memory
SUNDAY EUCHARIST
James Lawrence Case
8 AM and 10:30 AM HEALING SERVICE 10:00 AM Thursday
SFGN Staff
BINGO Thursday 1-4 PM (doors open at Noon) Sundays 2-5 PM (doors open at 1 PM) THRIFT SHOP Tuesday - Saturday 10 AM - 1PM Come As You Are - As One Loved By GOD Absolutely All Welcome We Are Pet Friendly!
www.stnicholasfl.org www.holygrill.org
July 30, 1944 - October 27, 2019
SOUP KITCHEN Of all SaINTS 3460 POwErlINE rd fOOd, ClOTHES, SHOwErS, mEdICINES, TEmP HOUSINg SINCE 1990, OPEN TO all PEOPlE. Call faTHEr bOb TO vOlUNTEEr Or dONaTE 954-801-8283 EvEry day 2Pm
Thanksgiving Day 10aM-3:30PM Day afTer Thanksgiving 10-3:30PM
11.20.2019 •
67
THU
11/21
SFGNITES
concert The Boca Symphonia, South Florida’s world-class chamber orchestra, presents a “Symphony of the Senses” tonight at 6 p.m. in the Cornell Art Museum at Old School Square in Delray Beach. Enjoy great art, gourmet bites and beverages, aromatherapy and, of course, wonderful music from women composers and performers to stir all your senses at this one-of-a-kind event. Tickets are $50 at TheSymphonia.org.
FRI
11/22
F O R T HE W EE K O F N O V E M B ER 2 1 , 2 0 1 9 - N O V E M B ER 2 6 , 2 0 1 9 J.W. Arnold
jw@prdconline.com
Books, Books and More Books
theater MNM Theatre Co. presents Stephen Sondheim’s light, fast-paced, witty, irreverent, and completely politically incorrect musical, “A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum,” tonight through Dec. 8 at the Kravis Center in West Palm Beach. Pseudolus, a crafty slave, struggles to win the hand of a beautiful, but slow-witted, courtesan for his master in exchange for freedom. Tickets start at $39 at Kravis.org.
SAT
11/23
theater GableStage in the Biltmore Hotel, 1200 Anastasia Ave. in Coral Gables, presents the world premiere of James Grippando’s “Watson,” tonight and running through Dec. 22. Based on the life of IBM founder Thomas J. Watson, Sr., this is the story of the Nazis’ use of IBM’s pre-computer technology and the world’s first “personal information” campaign – the systematic identification of Jews. Tickets are $50 at GableStage.org.
saturday
11/23
festival
The biggest literary event of the year, Miami Book Fair International, returns to Miami-Dade College’s downtown campus this weekend. Peruse thousands of new titles at the street fair on Saturday and Sunday. Several LGBTQ authors will be reading from their books this afternoon, including Olympic figure skater and “Dancing with the Stars” champ Adam Rippon, who just penned a sassy new memoir, “Beautiful on the Outside.” For more information, go to MiamiBookFair. Photo Credit: Miami-Dade College.
SAT
11/23
SUN
11/24
MON
11/25
TUE
11/26
theater
opera
film
film
Life can be a real headache…when you forget that you’re gay. That’s the premise for the play, “Gay Amnesia,” the first production of the Epiphany Theatre, opening this weekend at Elliott Hall at the United Church of Christ, 2501 N.E. 30th St. in Fort Lauderdale. Ed Sparan directs Jerry Radloff’s comedy about a gay couple’s ordeal after one suffers a head injury. Tickets are $25 at Eventbrite. com/GayAmnesia.
Florida Grand Opera presents Mozart’s masterpiece, “Don Giovanni,” today at 2 p.m. at the Arsht Center in Miami. The cautionary story of the world’s greatest lover and lustful lothario then moves to the Broward Center in Fort Lauderdale on Thursday, Dec. 5 and Saturday, Dec. 7 at 7:30 p.m. Canadian baritone Elliot Madore stars as Don Juan in this production directed by Mo Zhou. Tickets and more info at FGO.org.
Calling LGBTQ Disney fans: Avoid all the screaming little princesses at the cineplex this weekend and join us for “Frozen 2” on Movie Monday. Idina Menzel, Kristen Bell, Josh Gad and Jonathan Groff return as Elsa, Anna, Olaf and Kristoff head into the frozen arctic on another magical adventure. Sure, it’s a sequel, but we hear this film is still pretty spectacular. “Let it Go!” Check local listings for theaters and show times.
The hilarious Peabody Award-winning hit TV comedy “Mystery Science Theater 3000” is coming to the Kravis Center in West Palm Beach tonight at 8 p.m. on the “Great Cheesy Movie Circus Tour.” Join show creator and original host Joel Hodgson and the world’s only movieriffing robots, Tom Servo, Crow and Gypsy, for some of the cheesiest horror films ever made. Tickets start at $32 at Kravis.org.
68
•
1 1.20.2019
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
a fort lauderdale tradition
GAY MEN’S CHORUS OF SOUTH FLORIDA
DECEMBER 15, 2019 7PM AT
WITH
JORDIN SPARKS For more info
Hosted by
|
GM CS F.O RG
11.20.2019 •
69
SAME OWNERS SINCE '96! ALL NEW STAFF!
PEACE PIPE YOUR FRIENDLY NEIGHBORHOOD VAPE AND SMOKE SHOP
LARGEST SELECTION IN TOWN! AND GREAT PRICES TOO!
A&E theater
New Theater Company Opens with Gay Comedy
VAPORIZERS • E-LIQUIDS • HOOKAHS • CBD
MENTION SFGN FOR 30% OFF YOUR PURCHASE! EXCLUDING TOBACCO. EXP. NOVEMBER 30, 2019.
OPEN MON - SAT: 10AM - 9PM • SUN: 12 - 6 PM
EVERYTHING YOU NEED! MORE THAN YOU EXPECT!
15 Minutes From The Beach or I-95 954-267-9005 754-779-7007
4800 N. Dixie HigHway, Fort LauDerDaLe Just soutH oF CommerCiaL BLvD
Two Locations!
FACEBOOK.COM/PEACEPIPEFL
821 N. FeDeraL Hwy., Fort LauDerDaLe Just soutH oF sears towN Next to CuBBy HoLe @PEACEPIPEFORTLAUDERDALE
J.W. Arnold
F
amed circus promoter P.T. Barnum once said, “No one ever made a difference by being like everybody
else.” That’s a philosophy Epiphany Theatre founder Ed Sparan has embraced, but there are other parallels between the longtime South Florida resident and the bigger-thanlife impresario. Like Barnum, Sparan was raised in Bridgeport, Conn., and, as a teenager, left for New York City to pursue his passion, theater. During the 1980s, Sparan acted in cabarets and gay plays, eventually landing the role of Gregory Gardner in “A Chorus Line” on Broadway. He eventually realized his talents were writing and directing and so he left New York a decade later for San Francisco, where he became artistic director of the PWA (People with AIDS) Theatre. “(They were) a unique group doing support groups and, from those stories, creating realistic theatre,” recalled Sparan. In 1993, Sparan moved to South Florida, where he became immersed in many different communities: As a former Mr. Drummer, Sparan has served as an educator and has produced many events, including Mr. and Ms. Florida Leather and the Black Heart Ball. In the HIV community, he has been a PrEP coordinator for the Pride Center and operations manager for the World AIDS Museum and Educational Center. Most recently, Sparan has been providing HIV education in high schools for the Lynn Warrick Institute. But, Sparan never abandoned his love of the stage. He has been active with the former Public Theatre of South Florida and the TRUCK Theatre, and was more recently seen in “Musclebears the Musical” and “Die, Mommie Die” at Empire Stage. As a playwright, his latest work, “Forever Hard,” about the 1977 Everhard bathhouse fire, won the Playwrights Sanctuary Award for outstanding LGBTQ theater. And now, Sparan is launching Epiphany Theatre in Elliott Hall at the Fort Lauderdale United Church of Christ. “When you come to our shows, you
isbert Heuer and Daryl Hackbart start in Epiphany Theatre’s inaugural production, “Gay Amnesia,” opening Nov. 22. Credit: Epiphany Theatre.
will have an epiphany,” Sparan explained, referring to the “moment of sudden or great revelation or realization.” The new company’s first show, “Gay Amnesia,” opens Nov. 15. In Jerry Radloff’s comedy, Zack and Blair’s six-year relationship gets upended after Zack gets hit in the head and forgets that he is gay. Zack attempts to date the couple’s real estate agent, Roberta, while Blair is comforted through the difficult time by his mother and gay best friend, Bruno. Other upcoming shows include “Nunsense Amen,” opening in January and featuring an all-male cast including Peter Bisuito as Mother Superior; the British comedy “Stepping Out,” scheduled for April; and a summer production of “Forgotten, Unforgettable Broadway,” a musical review of well-known songs from unsuccessful shows. Next fall, Sparan plans “Bert’s Big Bed,” a comedy set in a San Francisco leather bar about a man winds up playing “Cyrano de Bergerac” to an acquaintance who must break some difficult news to his lover, and Kander and Ebb’s musical, “The Rink,” which will involve transforming Elliott Hall into an actual roller skating rink. One of P.T. Barnum’s other quotes is, “The noblest art is that of making other happy.” Sparan has taken that one to heart, also, as he prepares the first production for his new company.
Epiphany Theatre presents “Gay Amnesa,” Nov. 22 – Dec. 8 in Elliott Hall at the United Church of Christ, 2501 N.E. 30th St. in Fort Lauderdale. Tickets are $25 at Eventbrite.com/ GayAmnesia or call 754-213-7125.
70
•
1 1.20.2019
A&E theater
Vanessa Elise and Corey Rose star in the world premiere of Lane Stanley’s “Lipstick� at Island City Stage in Wilton Manors. Credit: George Wentzler.
Review: ‘Lipstick’ is Predictably Hilarious
W
screaming at the slightest incursion. And, let’s just agree dildos are multipurpose tools. Stanley’s farce evokes memories of “The Three Stooges� or even a relatively more recent “Three’s Company� episode. For the more cosmopolitan theater-goer, think “Boeing Boeing.� While nearly every laugh is obviously set up, there are a few surprises along the way. Cara’s wedding dress is a virtual utilikilt—she pulls everything but the proverbial kitchen sink out of the pocket (which should excite Hank), but since when do wedding dresses have pockets? Then, there’s the clever rap number in which Anna and Cara explain the ins and outs of lesbianism to a questioning Kelly. Who knew that women were like spaghetti, straight until they get a little wet? The funniest moments occur when Mal’s dates, “The Bandit Man� (Dean Nigro), appear at the door in rapid succession, requiring complete, split-second costume changes. There should be an award for the superhuman dressers who pull that miracle off. Silver Palm Awards judges take note! While the writing isn’t particularly groundbreaking, artistic director Andy Rogow’s commitment and fast-paced direction make this comedy work. There are no deep insights to be gained (except possibly the spaghetti thing?), but “Lipstick� is fun and the mostly older gay male audience at Wilton Theatre Factory responded with lots of laughs. Ultimately, that’s the measure of a hit for Island City Stage.
Island City Stage presents the world premiere of Lane Michael Stanley’s “Lipstick� through Dec. 15 at Wilton Theater Factory, 2304 N. Dixie Hwy. in Wilton Manors. Tickets are $41 at IslandCityStage.org.
n Ma ilto nor
Han
s
hat could possibly go wrong on an innocent “first date?� In Lane Michael Stanley’s silly comedy, “Lipstick,� receiving its world premiere at Island City Stage, well, just about everything. Anna (Vanessa Elise) nervously awaits the arrival of Kelly (Abby Nigro), a friend from yoga class, for a dinner date at her New York City apartment. The only problem is Anna’s gaydar isn’t quite fine-tuned and she’s unsure if Kelly is actually a lesbian. She wrings her hands in anticipation with flighty gay pal Mal (Corey Rose), who is anticipating a hook-up of his own, thanks to a Grindr-like app, Bandit. In the meantime, Kelly’s ex Cara (Rachel Gil de Gibaja) shows up, prepared to proclaim her devotion to Kelly. She’s just skipped out on her wedding to a man, still dressed in her wedding gown. Mal’s mother, Vanessa (Christina N. Alexander), also arrives unexpectedly on the scene, determined to squeeze every Manhattan tourist attraction in an afternoon’s visit. There’s also the landlord, Hank (Peter Bisuito), who makes an inconvenient appearance to snake some pipe in the bathroom. Stanley’s plot then takes more than a few predictable twists: When Kelly does finally arrive, all the guests wind up hidden in bedrooms and closets (get ready to groan at a few coming out of the closet jokes). Over the next 65 minutes, doors slam as the characters make hurried, yet surprisingly unnoticed entrances and exits, hurling one-line sex jokes galore and
W
J.W. Arnold
dy mEn
954-302-1913
LOVE WHERE YOU LIVE Â Â?
@wiltonmanorshandymen www.wiltonmanorshandymen.com 11.20.2019 •
71
Thirteen Years Serving the CommUNITY
A&E arts
DOCTOR ALWAYS ON PREMISES
PHOTO FACIALS • LASER SKIN REJUVENATION LASER HAIR REMOVAL • BOTOX® / DYSPORT® XEOMIN • SCULPTRA® • RADIESSE® / BELOTERO® RESTYLANE® / JUVEDERM® / VOLUMA® / KYBELLA • PLASMA PEN SKIN TIGHTENING • PRP HAIR RESTORATION
INJECTABLES* NEWTOX $11
Get a $75 e-gift card when 30 units or more are injected (while codes last)
DYSPORT $3.75 A UNIT
Save an instant $75 when 100 units or more are injected.
RESTYLANE DERMAL FILLER OFFER:
Sexy cirque troupe AirOtic returns to the Sunshine Cathedral this winter as part of the Outlandish Performance Series. Credit: AirOtic.
Outlandish Producer Announces 2020 Series at Sunshine Cathedral
Buy two 1ml Restylane Lyft and receive one 1ml Restylane FREE ($550 savings) PROMOTIONS EXPIRE 11/30/19
For Your Convenience, We Are Open Saturdays
954.462.7455 www.thesilklasercentre.com
924 N. Federal Hwy Fort Lauderdale, FL 33304
owned & operated by J.A. Astaphan MD
J.W. Arnold
L
ogo TV founder Matt Farber is bringing his Outlandish performance series back to South Florida this winter for a fourth season at the Sunshine Cathedral in Fort Lauderdale. The LGBT-friendly series includes iconic comedians, cabaret superstars, drag legends and the return of the acrobatic cirque-style show AirOtic. “I am very excited about the diversity of this year’s lineup,” said Farber in press materials. “Alan Cumming and NPR’s Ari Shapiro will premiere their new cabaret show, ‘RuPaul’s Drag Race’ icons will star in a musical parody of campy films and our fan favorites will return with all-new shows” The series opens on Saturday, Jan. 18 with Varla Jean Merman in “A Star is Bored.” After 25 years in the industry, Merman seeks inspiration from the drag queens who came before her and looks to a new generation of “RuPaul’s Drag Race” stars to find the strength to carry on with a modern approach. Comedian Margaret Cho makes her Outlandish debut on Saturday, Jan. 25, lending a diverse voice and perspective to the series, the producer said. Farber will once again have an extensive steel scaffolding erected inside the Sunshine Cathedral for the extended residency of the sexy cirque troupe AirOtic, Jan. 31 – Feb. 14. The new show will once again feature daring performers soaring high above the audience. Actress Jackie Hoffman, best known for making an award-worthy scene after
losing the Emmy for “Feud: Bette and Joan,” continues her public downward spiral into oblivion with her new show, “Themeless,” Feb. 29. Miss Richfield 1981 is coming out swinging and she’s ready for a fight in her all-new show, “Below the Belt,” Saturday, March 7. Never shying away from a challenge, Miss Richfield 1981 will honor the fighting spirit that makes America great with new music, videos and costumes. Starring recent “RuPaul’s Drag Race” season 11 stars Brooke Lynn Hytes and Nina West, along with Varla Jean Merman and Peaches Christ, “The First Wives Fight Club,” Saturday, March 21, is a campy mashup of the iconic films “The First Wives Club” and “Fight Club.” To conclude the season, Alan Cumming (“The Good Wife,” “Cabaret”) and Ari Shapiro (NPR’s “All Things Considered”) bring their new cabaret show, “Och and Oy! A Considered Cabaret,” to South Florida, April 3 - 4. Both are well-known as engaging storytellers and this show alternates their tales with entertaining musical numbers. “As I have said, there’s literally something for everybody this year,” said Farber, who also programs an Outlandish series in Palm Springs each fall and produces performances in Provincetown during the summer season. Tickets for the 2020 Outlandish Performance Series go on sale Thursday, November 21. Discounted full series passes to see all shows will be available, as well as a new “pick 4” option to see any four shows.
For tickets and more information, go to OutlandishFL.com.
72
•
1 1.20.2019
Marilyn Lamkay
Our Fund’s mission is to promote responsible philanthropy in order to make South Florida the most livable community in the country for LGBT people.
Everyday Philanthropist As South Florida’s only LGBT community foundation, Our Fund Foundation improves peoples’ lives by providing various ways to give, and supporting causes within the LGBT community. As South Florida’s only LGBT community foundation, Our Fund Foundation improves people’s lives by providing various ways to give and supporting causes within the LGBT community. Every month we will feature a local philanthropist and ask them about what inspires them to give, hopefully inspiring new everyday philanthropy. Marilyn Lamkay, another committed supporter, talks about what inspires her to give to South Florida causes:
Where are you from, and where do you consider home? I am originally from New York City. I moved here to Ft. Lauderdale just about two years ago. When did you first begin giving, and what inspired you to do so? What was the first organization you gave to? I began to be politically conscious at the end of 1970 and began my first donation to the National Gay Task Force (now National LGBTQ Task Force) at a time when there was no “L” in their name. My strong sense of community began with the East End Gay Organization EEGO on the East End of Long Island. Which causes and organizations do you support with your time and resources? Subsequent to that awakening I began to financially support NYC’s community center, Lambda, SAGE, GLAAD and lots of often more local community based gay and lesbian organizations. I also began to give my time there as well; first with the Task Force, and then community building activities centered around New York City. What do you find most rewarding about giving to the causes you care about?
LEGACY GIVING AGENCY FUNDS DONOR-ADVISED FUNDS BUSINESS PARTNERSHIPS
OUR FUND FOUNDATION supports projects that serve the LGBT community in a number of different fields:
I gave both time and money because it’s all about my life. I couldn’t just sit on the sidelines while I was being treated like a second class citizen. The sense of well-being I experienced when I do the right thing exceeds the time and money I expend. What sort of guidance would you give to someone considering giving back to their community? It seems to me that there is no greater sense of well-being than when you take care of yourself and the world you live in. It’s great medicine. Get involved with groups that help give you a sense of community and that you really believe in. It will be most effective and rewarding for yourself and for the community.
YOUTH ELDERS WOMEN TRANSGENDER HIV/AIDS ARTS & CULTURE SOCIAL JUSTICE
To learn more about how you can support Our Fund’s mission to support agencies advancing LGBT causes in South Florida, visit us at www.Our-Fund.org or call us at (954) 565-1090
11.20.2019 •
73
and
74
•
1 1.20.2019
Feature pets
second chance
Samantha
Lovely Samantha (ID 481599) hopes you’ll take her home. Sadly her owner passed away and now she is all alone. Samantha is a six-yearyoung, plump gal (at 15 pounds) who is mellow, good with other animals and will talk to you with soft meows. She might be a little shy at first, but enjoys being pet and hopes you’ll take her home soon. She has been waiting since early September for someone to fall in love with her and is one of more than 100 cats waiting to be adopted.
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.
Aaron’ s
Low Cost Cremation & Funeral Exceptionally High Quality at Low Prices Complete Direct Cremation
$555*
Graveside Burial
$1855
Includes Basic Casket
We Operate Our Own Off-Site Crematory
2201 Wilton Drive | Wilton Manors
833.227.6671
AaronsCremation.com * Death Certificates Additional
Free Notary Services
WE’RE HERE FOR ALL YOUR
FINANCIAL NEEDS Taxes IRS Issues Accounting
Bookkeeping Small Business Advising
954-667-9829 ACCOUNTING@STERLINGACCOUNTING.COM
2435 North Dixie Highway • Wilton Manors, FL 33305
FLOPPYROOSTERFL.COM
INFO@FLOPPYROOSTER.COM
11.20.2019 •
75
76
•
1 1.20.2019
! SWAP SHOP SFGN's
Hookups =
Call our sales team at 954.530.4970 for rent fort lauderdale FT LAUDERDALE AND WILTON RENTALS • Wilton Manors - 2/1 $1,290 includes cable. water and community pool • Lake Ridge - Efficiency $990 All tile, water included. Pet ok. • Lake Ridge - 1/1 $1040 Fenced yard, water included. Pet ok. 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.
www.sfgn.guide
employment wanted SPECIAL HIRE NEEDED - Earn $45,000 per year. Experienced, self-motivated professional salesman needed. Work competitively in a highly flexible and relaxed LGBT-friendly environment. Fax resume to 954-530-7943.
www.sfgn.guide
health insurance DENTAL INSURANCE - from Physicians Mutual Insurance Company. NOT just a discount plan, REAL coverage for 350 procedures. Call 1-888-533-8349 for details. www.dental50plus.com/SouthFL6118-0219
for rent wilton manors Furnished 1 bed 1 bath apartment - Great Neighborhood, short walk to Wilton Drive. $1300 a month First and Security, 1-year lease. Fully furnished Contact Mike or Lee at 561-254-8125.
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
Classified Advertising Works!
954.530.4970 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. Broward & Palm Beach counties. 617-306-5694 | gmanbenn44@gmail.com
now hiring Club Fort Lauderdale Now Hiring Now Hiring Full time team members for a Private Men’s Club. Customer / Hospitality experience is a plus. We are open 24/7, so you must have a flexible schedule. We are looking for reliable, dependable team members. The position requires cleaning during your shift. We offer competitive wages. Submit application and resume to the front desk. 110 NW 5th Ave. Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33311. 954-525-3344 www.clubftl.com
954-849-0280
TopDogMobile.net
Visit www.squirt.org to hook up today piano
notary Mobile Notary Services - affidavits, documents in support of disability claims, wills, medical directives and officiant services. Call 954.804.3854
now hiring 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. Email a resume to spa.director@hotmail.com.
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.
Looking for a better roommate? Place an ad here... we won't ask.
954.530.4970
DON’T MISS A
TASTE.
FEELING THE HUNGER?
Premium Shampoos and f ine conditioners Blow dry Full brushing out Nail trimming
Comfort and convenience at your door! Serving the Ft. Lauderdale area since 2005!
Ear cleaning Sanitary trimming Expression of glands (if desired) Full haircut
Read SFGN’s weekly food column for an exclusive bite on local bars, restaurants, and seasonal flavors.
SFGN.COM/FOOD 11.20.2019 •
77
HOME | AUTO | BUSINESS
We know Insurance, because We Insure Florida.
Document. Remember. Empower. CONSTANTINE PATSIMAS cpatsimas@weinsuregroup.com
HIV is Still here. Broward County is #1 in new HIV cases #itsnotoveryet
KIM COLQUITT
kim.colquitt@weinsuregroup.com
ALEJANDRO KALAF III
alejandro.kalaf@weinsuregroup.com
HOME • FLOOD • AUTO • BUSINESS UMBRELLA • RVs BOATs • JETSKIs • MOTORCYCLE
954.903.7519
3415 Galt Ocean Drive Fort Lauderdale, FL 33308 www.WeInsureFTLaud.com
78
•
1 1.20.2019
/worldaidsmuseum
1201 NE 26th St #111, Wilton Manors, FL 33305 (954) 390-0550 | worldaidsmuseum.org
HIV Oral Histor y Project star ts with you. To add your stor y contact us today.
SUPPORT! VISIT! STOP STIGMA!
A BIGGER, BETTER YOU in 2019!
PENILE GIRTH ENLARGEMENT AND SCROTAL ENHANCEMENT WITH THE RENOWNED PLATINUM TECHNIQUE!
Contact Loria Medical for a confidential consultation with renowned Physician Dr. Victor Loria, pioneer in Male Enhancement Techniques.
1-877-Dr-Loria www.loriamedical.com 11.20.2019 •
79