01/23/12 V4I4 by South Florida Gay News

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JANUARY 23, 2013 • Volume 4 • Issue 4

She’s Back! ‘Funny Girl’ Barbra Streisand returns to the big screen page

President Obama is Official, and He’s Already Talking LGBT Cho’s Gay Fighting INSIDE Eric Johnson THIS Scavenger page Showing to Donate page page page doesn’t stop ISSUE Hunt! up Blood

page 5

Boca Raton Officials Are Lying about LGBT Discrimination page 9

Top 3 on SFGN.com By Sergio N. Candido

Last week’s hottest items that couldn’t wait to be printed

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

Publisher Norm Kent

Whoopi Goldberg Honored for LGBT Support

norm.kent@sfgn.com

Chief Executive Officer Pier Angelo Guidugli

The current co-host of The View will received an award from the HRC O s c a r- w i n n i n g actress and the current co-host of The View, Whoopi Goldberg will be awarded the “Ally For Equality Award” by the Humans Rights Campaign for her longtime support of the LGBT community. The ceremony is set to take place on Feb. 2 during the

12th Annual Greater New York Human Rights Campaign Gala. According to the HRC, the award is “given to allies outside the LGBT community who stand up on behalf of equality for all Americans.” “We are proud to honor Whoopi Goldberg with the Ally for Equality Award for her commitment to the LGBT community through her public support of marriage equality, including taking part in

our successful New Yorkers for Marriage Equality video campaign in 2011,” Chad Griffin, HRC’s president, said in a statement. “Whoopi is always willing to stand up for our community and is a longtime friend of HRC.” Goldberg’s support for gay rights goes as far back as 1987, when she spoke at the March on Washington for gay rights.

$3 Million Green-Lighted for DOMA Legal Defense

Editorial

Editor in Chief Jason Parsley jason.parsley@sfgn.com

Managing Editor Gideon Grudo gideon.grudo@sfgn.com

Website Director Dennis Jozefowicz

Online News Director Sergio N. Candido sergio.candido@sfgn.com

Graphic Designer Mark Pauciullo

Arts/Entertainment Editor JW Arnold jw@prdconline.com

International Travel Editor Joey Amato

Business Editor Richard Gary

Sports Editor Ryan Dixon ryan.dixon@sfgn.com

Senior Features Correspondents

House Republicans approved more money to pay lawyers for a court defense

Rep. Candice Miller (R-Mich.), House Administration Committee chair, has signed a revised contract to spend $3 million on an outside legal firm to defend the Defense of Marriage Act in court, according to a contract obtained by The Huffington Post and dated Jan. 4.

Tony Adams Jesse Monteagudo

couples of the rights and privileges granted to heterosexual couples. Last December, some of the most influential LGBT organizations in the country, including the Human Rights Campaign, wrote a letter to Boehner urging him to stop spending tax money on lawyers to defend DOMA. The Supreme Court is set to take on DOMA challenges in March.

Republican House Speaker John Boehner stepped in to defend DOMA in court after the Obama administration said it would no longer defend it. House Republicans previously approved a $500,000 increase to the $1.5 million contract with Bancroft, the law firm hired to defend the statute. DOMA is a 1996 law that defines marriage as a union between a man and a woman, thus depriving gay

Italian Prime Minister Opposes Gay Marriage

Correspondents Donald Cavanaugh Andrea Dulanto Dylan Bouscher

Contributing Columnists

Wayne Besen Brian McNaught Dana Rudolph David Webb Ric Reily Victoria Michaels Calendar Editor Brian Swinford Editorial Cartoonists Karl Hampe Darryl Smith Staff Photographers J.R. Davis Pompano Bill Steven Shires

PM Mario Monti said he thinks a family should be a man and a woman

For the first time since taking over Silvio Berlusconi 14 months ago, Italian Prime Minister Mario Monti talked about social issues, voicing his opposition to legalizing gay marriage in the European peninsula.

“My thought is that the family should be made up of one man and one woman, and I consider it necessary that children should grow up with a mother and a father,” Monti told a television interviewer late on Jan. 16, according to Reuters. “Parliament can find other solutions for other kinds of unions and cohabitations.” This is reportedly the first time Monti discusses social issues; he had confined himself to addressing

the economic situation and trying to steer the country away from a Greece-like economic meltdown. His comment comes on the heels of a national debate after Italy’s highest court rejected an appeal by a father who wanted custody of his son on grounds that the mother and her female partner would not be able to give the child a “balanced” upbringing.

& • Three More Quickies to Wake You Up Actor Victor Garber Comes Out as Gay

The “Titanic” actor has publicly confirmed that he is gay and in a long-term relationship

•British Catholics Fear Persecution if England Approves Gay Marriage Over 1,000 priests signed a letter saying gay marriage would tread on religious freedoms

• Gay Candidate Starts Campaign for Jacksonville City Council Seat

An openly gay candidate has announced his bid for Jacksonville City Council District 7 seat

January 23 2013 • Volume 4 • Issue 4

ck Sti ith W s! U Read our daily stories at SFGN.com You can also find us on Facebook: SouthFloridaGayNews Twitter: @soflagaynews.

Sales & Marketing

Community Outreach Coordinator John Fugate Advertising Sales Manager Mike Trottier Assistant Sales Manager Justin Wyse Classifieds Sales Associate Adrian Evans Advertising Sales Associates Edwin Neimann Mark Schram National Sales Representative Rivendell Media todd@rivendellmedia.com

Accounting Services by CG Bookkeeping South Florida Gay News.com is published weekly. The opinions expressed in columns, stories, and letters to the editor are those of the writers. They do not represent the opinions of South Florida Gay News.com, Inc., or the Publisher. You should not presume the sexual orientation of individuals based on their names or pictorial representations in SFGN. Furthermore the word “gay” in SFGN should be interpreted to be inclusive of the entire LGBT community. All of the material that appears in SFGN, both online at www. southfloridagaynews.com, and in our print edition, including articles used in conjunction with the Associated Press and our columnists, 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 of SFGN, 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©2013 South Florida Gay News.com, Inc.

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January 23 2013 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

NEWS HIGHLIGHT

Australia Close to Finding AIDS Cure By Sergio N. Candido

ustralian researchers have found a way to turn HIV against itself — potentially putting an end to the deadly virus. The Queensland Institute of Medical Research announced on Jan. 17 a group of its scientists has been able to modify a protein in HIV, so that instead of replicating in the human body, the modified protein protects human cells from the immune deficiency virus, ABC Australia reports. “I consider that this is fighting fire with

fire,” Associate Professor David Harrich, one of the researchers involved in the breakthrough, told ABC. “What we’ve actually done is taken a normal virus protein that the virus needs to grow, and we’ve changed this protein, so that instead of assisting the virus, it actually impedes virus replication and does it quite strongly.” While HIV would still be contagious, this would allow the immune system of infected people to function normally, eliminating any of the current risks of living with the virus. Harrich said that animal trials are scheduled to start this year. A treatment could be available in about a decade. “I think what people are looking for is basically a means to go on and live happy and productive lives with as little intrusion as possible,” he said. “You either have to eliminate the virus infection or alternatively you have to eliminate the disease process and that’s what this could do, potentially for a very long time.”

January 23, 2013 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

s w s e N ief r B By Sergio N. Candido

Pinellas County Approves Domestic Partner Registry

Pinellas County joins the list of Florida cities and counties that have approved domestic partner registries. On Jan. 15, county commissioners voted 6-1 to approve the measure, which will give gay couples, among others, legal recognition of their relationships, the Tampa Bay Times reported. While the domestic partner registry doesn’t equate marriage rights, gay couples who register would be able to make decisions for one another regarding health care or funeral services. The registry takes effect in 10 days, but couples won’t be able to register until about 90 days because the county is still working to set up a database, according to the Times. Registration is expected to cost $50. Broward, Miami-Dade, Orange, Palm Beach, and Volusia counties, along with several cities, already offer domestic registries in Florida. Some Pinellas C o u n t y commissioners believe this recognition could help build enough momentum to pressure the Florida Legislature to pass a statewide domestic partner registry ordinance. “Would I prefer that the Florida legislature take the lead and do this? Yeah,” Commissioner Charlie Justice told the Times. Sen. Eleanor Sobel, D-Hollywood, recently introduced a bill that would allow LGBT Floridians to enter into a domestic partnership no matter what county laws say about such a union. A Dec. 2012 poll shows that attitudes toward gay marriage in Florida seem to be slowly changing. The survey by Quinnipiac University of 1,261 registered voters found that 45 percent oppose gay marriage while 43 percent support it. In May of the same year 50 percent opposed same-sex marriage.

Florida Fifth-Grader Brings Knife to School to Defend Against Bullies

Officials at an elementary school in Winter Haven, Florida, alerted police after they found a student was carrying a knife allegedly to defend himself from gay bullying, his family said. An 11-year-old boy attending Inwood Elementary School reportedly took an 8-inch-long kitchen knife to school on Monday, Jan. 14, according to Bay News 9. The boy’s family maintains that they’ve notified school administrators about the bullying, but that no action was ever taken. The school and police told ABC Action News that there are no records of this claim. A tweet from ABC Action News assignment editor Micah Grimes asserts family members believed the kid took the knife to school to defend himself against bullies who were teasing him because of his “gay tendencies.” The incident is under investigation, in the meantime, the student has been criminally charged. “Right now, he’s charged with possession of a weapon on school grounds,” Capt. David Brannan of Winter Haven police told Fox13 Tampa Bay. “It’s a third-degree felony and that would be for any person, whether they’re a student, an adult on campus, or anything.”

Florida Family Association Flies AntiGay Ad Over Lady Gaga Concert

A Tampa-based conservative group hired a plane to fly over a Lady Gaga concert in Washington for hours displaying an antigay message to protest the singer’s LGBT advocacy. The Florida Family Association dished out $1,900 to fly a banner reading “Not born this way,” for four hours over the singer’s concert in Tacoma on Jan. 14, according to FFA’s website. The ad is a play on words on Lady Gaga’s tour, the Born This Way Ball, and her Born This Way Foundation, which helps LGBT youth gain acceptance. Thousands of fans attending a preconcert tailgate saw the banner, the News Tribune reports. “It’s disheartening, but it’s their right,” Brittney Blankenship, who was attending the concert, told the News Tribune. “As much as we want to have this pride, they have the right to feel how they do too.” According to FFA, the stunt was part of an effort to fight Lady Gaga’s “campaign to persuade kids to accept the homosexual lifestyle.” “Florida Family Association would like to fly more banners to counter Gaga’s hedonistic, Godless message at more concerts … The goal is not to fly banners at every concert but at enough concerts to make a difference,” the

group wrote on its website. This isn’t the first time FFA used planes to publicize its anti-gay messages. Last June, they flew a plane over Orlando’s Disney World that read: “Warning: Gay Pride Day at Disney Saturday,” in reference to the park’s annual “Gay Days” celebration.

Openly Gay Veteran Co-Chairs President Obama’s Inauguration

An openly gay veteran who was honorably discharged while “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” was still in place was among the eight citizen cochairs for President Obama’s inauguration. The Presidential Inauguration Committee announced on Jan. 17 that David Hall, a former Air Force sergeant, was going to be one of eight people selected to “help highlight Obama’s first-term accomplishments,” according to The Advocate. Hall currently works as director of development for OutServe-SLDN, an organization that fights for the rights of LGBT service members and veterans. “This is certainly the honor of a lifetime, and I am grateful to President Obama for his leadership in repealing ‘don’t ask, don’t tell’ so that no qualified American who wants to serve this country in uniform will ever again be denied that right simply because they are gay or lesbian,” Hall said. He was set to participate in a series of events surrounding the inauguration, including riding on a parade float under the theme of “Our People: Our Future. Obama’s swearing-in ceremony is scheduled for Jan. 21. Windy City Times writes that the other seven co-chairs included “a nurse, a wind energy businessman, a woman fighting a brain tumor, a Purple Heart veteran of Afghanistan, a single mother, a woman who regained her job after 13 months of unemployment, and the co-founder of a home rebuilding effort in post-Katrina New Orleans.”

Transgender Woman Becomes First Elected to Democratic National Committee

achievements under her belt including serving on the Hillary Clinton National LGBT Steering Committee and then working as a member of the Obama National Policy and Finance Committee. New Jersey activist Barbra Casbar Siperstein was the first trans DNC member, however, she was appointed to her position, not elected, the Statesman clarifies.

South African Christian School Offers Rehab to Cure Homosexuality

A Christian arts academy in South Africa is open to gay and lesbian students, but there’s a catch: They must submit to treatment to cure their homosexuality, or else they would be expelled. As part of its curriculum, Creare Training Centre, located in the city of Bloemfontein, mandates that its gay students be “discipled” to become heterosexuals, a practice that could be illegal in the African country, according to the Gay Star News. “We believe in the principle of relationship fundamental to personal sexual orientation being founded on that of heterosexuality. Therefore any person wanting to pursue a lifestyle contrary and is not willing to be discipled in this regard, will not be permitted to continue further studies or lecture,” the prospectus reads. “Not only is this blatant discrimination under the South African Law, ‘Promotion of Equality and Prevention of Unfair Discrimination Act of 2006,’ but worse is Heyningen’s assertion that gays can be ‘cured’,” South African LGBT rights advocate Melanie Nathan told the GSN in reference to Cornelius can Heyningen, the founder of the school. For his part, Heyningen denied the school discriminates in any way and compared their conversion therapy to a drug rehabilitation program. “We are catering for those who say ‘I want to change as a homosexual.’ That’s not saying no homosexuals are allowed,” he told the South African Sunday Times.

Transgender activist Laura Calvo has just made history by becoming the first transgender woman elected to the Democratic National Committee, Oregon’s Statesman Journal reports. “Everyone who’s worked with Laura Calvo knows what I know – she’s a superstar,” Chair of the Democratic Party of Oregon Meredith Wood Smith said in a statement. “We couldn’t be prouder to have her represent the Democratic Party of Oregon as a member of the Democratic National Committee.” Calvo, the treasurer of the Democratic Party of Oregon, has a long list of

January 23 2013 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

NATIONAL NEWS

Obama’s Inaugural Speech President addresses LGBT community, gay marriage

By Lisa Keen, Keen News Service near the White House that the Obama family attends, urged that “prejudice and rancor” not be allowed to rule our hearts but that, instead, all citizens hold each other in “mutual regard” no matter what their race or gender or immigrant status, and whether “gay or straight, rich or poor.” Press reports prior to the inaugural ceremony characterized Leon as a “gayaffirming” clergyman at Saint John’s Church, which also celebrates marriage ceremonies

We, the people, declare today that the most evident of truths – that all of us are created equal – is the star that guides us still; just as it guided our forebears through Seneca Falls, and Selma, and Stonewall. It is now our generation’s task to carry on what [our nation’s] pioneers began. Our journey is not complete until our gay brothers and sisters are treated like anyone else under the law – for if we are truly created equal, then surely the love we commit to one another must be equal as well. for same-sex couples. Leon replaced Atlanta pastor Louie Giglio who was initially invited to deliver the benediction but who withdrew from the ceremony after criticism surfaced about remarks he made in a sermon in the 1990s. In that sermon, Giglio called homosexualiy “probably the greatest addiction” and said that marriage between same-sex partners is “absolutely undermining the whole order of our society.” An openly gay man, Richard Blanco of Bethel, Maine, presented a poem as part of the inaugural ceremony. Drawing from common images of Americans in all walks of life, Blanco’s poem spoke of the nation’s oneness. “One sun rose on us today,” he noted. “… one light waking up rooftops, under each one a story….my face, your face, millions of faces in morning’s mirrors.” He spoke of sights common to all, of the rows of colorful fruits and vegetables at markets, as “rainbows begging our praise.” And he spoke of “carrying our lives without prejudice”

January 23, 2013 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

and “giving thanks for a love that loves you ever in an inaugural parade and, because its back.” members are comprised of 37 groups from Myrlie Evers-Williams, who delivered around the world, its first rehearsal for this the invocation at the inaugural ceremony, year’s event took place Saturday. The Civil did not mention LGBT people specifically, Rights Float is described by the Presidential but repeatedly referred to the importance Inaugural Committee as featuring “images of diversity in the nation’s people and in representing historic struggles of many of the principle “everyone is included.” In an the civil rights movements in our country,” interview with Urban Christian News a few including the LGBT movement. days before the event, she was asked how Monday night, the Human Rights she felt about the Giglio controversy: “I’m Campaign’s “LGBT Out for Equality simply delighted that I was not Inaugural Ball” will boast a posh address so controversial that I would step just a few blocks from the White House down,” said Evers-Williams, “or be –the Mayflower Hotel. Entertainment asked to step down.” will be provided by Cyndi Lauper, Audra If there was any mar to the McDonald, and Will Swenson. Tickets were historic inauguration day, it was a still available at $375 each. tiny display of hostile signs along the motorcade route to the U.S. Capitol Monday morning. According to a pool reporter for White House, a small number of people held up signs saying, “God hates fags” and “God hates Obama.” The messages were typical of a Kansas pastor and his follower who have acquired considerable media attention by displaying hatefilled messages at gays during various high-profile events. During the inaugural parade Monday afternoon, the Lesbian and Gay Band Association will appear in the third of five divisions of parade contingents, each division led by a different branch of the armed services. The Third Division will be led by the U.S. Navy. After the several Navy bands and marching units, a float about Martin Luther King Jr., and several other parade entries, the Lesbian and Gay Band will appear behind the “Civil Rights Float” and in front of the “Native American Women Warriors” contingent from Colorado. This is the Openly gay poet, Richard Blanco of Bethel, Maine, presented a poem as part of the inaugural ceremony Band’s second appearance photos courtesy of richard blanco

resident Obama, in his second inaugural address, emphasized the nation’s principle of equality for all and, in doing so, specifically included the struggles of LGBT Americans to achieve equality. “We, the people, declare today that the most evident of truths – that all of us are created equal – is the star that guides us still; just as it guided our forebears through Seneca Falls, and Selma, and Stonewall; just as it guided all those men and women, sung and unsung, who left footprints along this great Mall, to hear a preacher say that we cannot walk alone; to hear a King proclaim that our individual freedom is inextricably bound to the freedom of every soul on Earth. “It is now our generation’s task to carry on what [our nation’s] pioneers began. For our journey is not complete until our wives, our mothers, and daughters can earn a living equal to their efforts. Our journey is not complete until our gay brothers and sisters are treated like anyone else under the law – for if we are truly created equal, then surely the love we commit to one another must be equal as well,” said Obama. Our generation’s task, he said, is to “make these words, these rights, these values – of Life, and Liberty, and the Pursuit of Happiness – real for every American.” In his first inaugural address, President Obama emphasized unity, and did not refer to LGBT citizens directly or indirectly. Some last-minute inclusion of gay people in various venues of the inaugural were generally unpublicized and unseen. Instead, the highprofile inclusion of a California evangelist Rick Warren had shone attention on the support for a voter-passed Proposition 8 in California just two months earlier, banning marriage for same-sex couples. This time, however, there was positive and visible inclusion of LGBT people throughout the inaugural ceremony. Delivering the benediction on the inaugural podium Monday, the Rev. Luis Leon, the pastor of an Episcopal church

LOCAL NEWS

Be a Wilton Manors Master

Participate in the first Wilton Manors Scavenger Hunt

By Dori Zinn

hink you know Wilton Manors, or just want to learn about it? The inaugural Wilton Manors Scavenger Hunt on Jan. 26 in Hagen Park will show you everything from unknown landmarks to quirky facts about the city. Teams of no more than three to four people can participate in the hunt, starting at 1 p.m. Adrienne Foland, membership chair of the Wilton Manors Historical Society, said she wanted to put on a fundraising event while educating residents and having fun at the same time. “I live in Wilton Manors and wanted to expose people to the businesses [and] historical sites in our little wonderful city,” Foland said. Proceeds from ticket sales will go to the Wilton Manors Historical Society, who is hosting the hunt, and the Development Alliance. To win, players need to answer all of the clues that are given to them by the

orientation team. According to the scavenger hunt website, clues will be mostly involving Five Points to Richardson Historic Park on Wilton Drive. In the event of a tie, the team

with the fastest time wins. “You have to get on your feet and really use your observation skills,” Foland says

about the contest. “You have fun working together with your friends.” Foland has been on the board of the Historical Society for a year, a volunteer, non-profit organization. She got the idea from a scavenger hunt she attended in San Francisco. Her team didn’t win, but she loved how much fun she had. Despite being its first year, Foland said people have already told her how they have formulated plans and checked out the surrounding areas to get a head start. “We hope participants will take notice of historic sites in the City of Wilton Manors that previously they had just walked by during a night out.” For more information, visit the scavenger hunt website, www. WiltonManorsScavengerHunt.com.

If You Go Where: Hagen Park Community Center 1975 Northeast 15th Avenue, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33305 When: Jan. 26, 1 to 3 p.m. Registration opens at 12:30 p.m. How Much: $10 for one ticket, $7.50 for two or more.

January 23 2013 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

LOCAL NEWS

Bloody Wednesday Miami Beach tells FDA to let gays donate blood By Gideon Grudo

t was all very easy — getting Miami Beach commissioners to stand behind an official urging the FDA, asking it to reconsider its 30-year-old ban on gays donating blood. At least that’s what Walker Burttschell

photos courtesy of Walker Burttschel

said. He’s the Florida International University student who concocted the idea while doing what students do — writing a paper. “I always knew about the ban,” the 30-year-old political science major said. “They always ask you for blood, but turn you down when they find out you’re gay.” Shortly after he submitted his paper, Burttschell was sitting at a meeting of the Miami Beach Human Rights Committee, when a complaint came in from a resident who alleged discrimination at a blood bank. “The conversation came up, and we decided to draft a resolution,” Burttschell said, adding that the HRC voted on it unanimously. A friend of the board, Miami Beach Vice Mayor Michael Gongora, took the resolution to Miami Beach, who voted it through on Wednesday, Jan. 16. As of press time, SFGN has not been able to contact Gongora for comment. “There wasn’t a huge effort behind this. The city is very progressive. It was a very easy thing to do,” Burttschell said. “I think other, local cities here — Fort Lauderdale and Miami — should do the same thing. I think there should be a movement to get all cities to do this.” In the U.S., any man who has had sex with another man since 1977 is banned for life from donating blood. The federal policy was enacted in the 1985, when the risk of AIDS from transfusion was first recognized. Last December Mexico Walker Burttschell is most well known for fighting for the repeal of DADT, and now he’s made more waves by actively pushing against became the first country in the the

Eastern Hemisphere to allow gays to donate blood. Argentina could also lift the ban this year, and Canada could modify the ban and instead allow gay men who haven’t had sex with another man for the last five years to donate blood. An online petition has been started on the White House’s website, urging the government to take action and repeal the gay blood ban. It was started by no other than Burttshcell. It’s gathered 69 signatures as of publication. It needs 99,931 by Feb. 14 for the White House to issue an official response on the issue. This isn’t Burttschell’s first brush with

infamy. In 2010, he was among the first to shake Obama’s hand after the president signed the repeal of ‘Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell.’ He was discharged from the military in 2003 after someone hacked his email account and figured out he was gay, leading to years of activism toward the repeal itself. “It was hard work. 40 hours a week. Calling everyone you could think of. This was just a conversation. One reason is that it’s such an obvious issue,” Burttschell said about the resolution. “It’s a very basic issue that everybody gets. All blood is fully screened, including for HIV, so why should we have a ban on gay people?”

FDA’s ban on gays donating blood.

January 23, 2013 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

LOCAL NEWS

Pride Center Hosts Second Annual Fundraiser Local LGBT non-profit throws Evening in Paradise auction in Richardson Park By Dylan Bouscher

them dressed up — as an incarnation of the seven deadly sins — for the Pride Center’s second annual fundraiser as one hundred people turned out to bid on local businesses and raise money. Jonathan May, an Assistant Director for Student Affairs at Nova Southeastern

University, enjoyed the party’s Garden of Eden theme. “It’s amazing, the stage, and the decorations, and the whole theme is just brilliant,” May said. “And the people dressed up in their costumes, beautiful.” May also appreciated his company at the event. “What’s great is the networking opportunity here with all these amazing professionals,” May said. “The folks that are here are pretty high-caliber gay, lesbian professionals in our community.” Ken Keechl, the first openly gay mayor elected in Broward County and a former county commissioner, was one of the highcaliber professionals at the event. “Last year was phenomenal,” Keechl said. “There’s so many programs that we need, that this is a great fusion of cash that we need.” Of the local businesses being auctioned at the fundraiser, Keechl bid on five different companies, including Rosie’s Bar and Grill on Wilton Drive. “I’m the one that’s knocking all the prices up, going over there, writing my name down

so people will bid and get the numbers up,” Keechl said. “It’s really about money, you can’t run the Pride Center without having lots of money, you can’t do these programs without money,” Keechl said. “We made a lot of money last year, we’re going to make a lot of money this year, it’s going to be an annual thing.” This year, the fundraiser’s costs were covered by its sponsors: Wells Fargo, AHF Pharmacy, Panache Style, Wilton Manors Rehabilitation, Greystone Healthcare Management, Dunham Insurance Services, Fab2Go, Paul Rubenstein, Southern Wine and Spirits, Steven Shires Photography, and The Manor. Last year, the Pride Center raised $50,000 at its first annual fundraiser, which was the most money ever raised for the Pride Center at one event, according to the Vice Chair of the Pride Center’s Board of Directors Jim Walker. “We’re trying to top that,” Walker said the night of the fundraiser. “We’re close.” For more information, visit www. pridecenterflorida.org/ photos courtesy of steven shires

nger stood still in a box enveloped by flames, while Pride leaned against his own with a crown on his head. Seven men and women stood in boxes littering the lawn at Richardson Park from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. Saturday January 19. Each of

photos courtesy of steven shires

Ronnie Pryor, Dustin Cranor, Ellen Krider, John Kissee, Jay Oreman, Ed Krider

Bill Linehan, Alex Thornberry, Anya Thornberry, Rob Eldredge, Kristofer Fegenbush

January 23 2013 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

LOCAL NEWS

Is Boca City Staff Lying to Officials?

Staff ’s research is riddled with inaccuracies over other city’s LGBT records

By Dylan Bouscher

hile residents of Boca Raton were celebrating Martin Luther King Jr.’s accomplishments with speakers, local dancers, choirs, martial artists, and free food, city staff was potentially lying to city officials about the accomplishments of other city’s records on LGBT rights. SFGN found at least two instances where a recent research paper detailing LGBT rights and benefits in cities across South Florida were wrong. Among the “errors” made, Human Resources Director Mark Buckingham claimed Boynton Beach was another city in Palm Beach County without LGBT protections in its non-discrimination policy. Except there’s one problem – it’s just not true. Boynton’s Personnel Policy manual states Boynton is an “Equal Opportunity Employer and prohibits discrimination because of race, color, creed, religion, national origin, sex, age, political affiliation, disability (except where such factor is a bona fide occupational qualification or is required by State and/or Federal law), sexual orientation, marital status, veteran status, and/or other protected class status in all aspects of its personnel policies, programs, practices, recruitment, examination, appointment, training, promotion, retention, or any other actions and operations.” Palm Beach County Human Rights Council (PBCHRC) President Rand Hoch was shocked by the city’s findings. “Since you have a longstanding

reputation in the human resources community for being very thorough in your work, I was astonished at the sheer number of inaccuracies in the memorandum,” Hoch wrote in a letter to Buckingham. On the same chart city officials created, they also reported that Delray Beach did not protect its LGBT employees. But like Boynton, Delray’s Equal Opportunity Policy does in fact prohibit discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation. The chart also claims the city of West Palm Beach does not provide domestic partner benefits to its employees. Hoch, who worked with the city to establish these benefits, was again shocked. “Those policies, which I developed, have been in effect for over twenty years,” Hoch wrote. “Moreover, I don’t know how this

error could have slipped by the City of Boca Raton’s Legal Department, since it employs two former assistant city attorneys from West Palm Beach who worked on domestic partner issues during their tenures there.” It took Buckingham a month and half to compile his “research” of the nondiscrimination policies of nearby cities. “I challenged the city staff repeatedly to support the garbage research the city is giving its elected officials” Hoch said. SFGN contacted Boca City Manager Leif Ahnell, who the inaccurate research was sent to, for comment. But as of publication time, Ahnell could not be reached. Despite the inaccuracies of the report, Hoch is confident progress will be made in Boca. “They’re all in denial on the city staff. Or trying to cover something up. Or both,”

Hoch said. “[But] I’m still convinced the elected officials will do the right thing.” Hoch first asked the Boca city council for more information on its policy last September. But the city council didn’t consider updating its policy until after Hoch started a “Boca Bigots Run City Hall” campaign and openly gay 17-year-old Tyler Morrison blasted the council for its antiquated policy in November. Because there are no state and federal laws protecting LGBT people from discrimination, most counties and cities adopt their own policies that include these classifications. When Palm Beach County expanded LGBT rights in its Equal Employment Ordinance, Boca became the only city in the county to opt-out of these expanded rights by passing Ordinance 5161 in 2011.

This information was compiled from the Palm Beach County Human Rights Council

Full Charge Bookkeeping Services

January 23, 2013 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

LOCAL NEWS

Chili Cook Off a Hot Success By Jason Parsley

he Bar Lake Worth hosted a chili cook off to raise funds for Compass Gay & Lesbian Community Center’s youth group. More than 400 people attended the inaugural fundraiser, raising more than $3,000. Because of its success, they’re already looking to do it again next year. “We all set out to raise funds for the Compass Youth Group, but the day was truly a success in more ways than one,” said Penny Johnson, co-owner of the lesbian bar, The Bar Lake Worth. “We have never heard of a Gay Chili cook off, so we thought it would be fun. This is the first time that all of the bars came together, men and women, to do something great for the community.” Some of the bars that participated include The Mad Hatter Lounge, H.G. Rooster’s, Fort Dix, and all the way from Wilton Manors, New Moon. The event featured 15 chili cooks, and performances from 10 drag queens.

The winners included:

photos courtesy of April Braun

•Hottest Chili – Elaine Sayward and Michele Sweitzer •Most Unique Chili – Anie Velazquez •Best Overall Champion – Island Chili (Cindi Brunot and Jen Johnson)

Anie Velazquez (right) took home the plaque for “Most Unique Chili” at The Bar Lake Worth’s first annual chili cook off.

photos courtesy of April Braun

“There is nothing more inspirational than seeing how easily, and how enthusiastically, our community comes together to support our youth,” said Executive Director of Compass Tony Plakas. “What is unique about Palm Beach County isn’t Compass Community Center. What is unique is the will to see the center thrive for generations of youth who flourish by having an affirming space to grow.”

The chili cook off raised more than $3,000 for Compass Gay & Lesbian Community Center’s youth group. Compass staff pictured above.

January 23 2013 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

PASSAGES

Recovery Community Mourns Loss By SFGN Staff ack Wayman was born and raised in the Jacksonville area. He was born Nov. 30, 1947. He passed away peacefully surrounded by loved ones on Jan. 9, 2013. He was 65. He died of complications after a lung collapse. He was an only child. His father was a judge. He came out young in the 1960s. He lived in Fort Lauderdale during much of the 1970s and worked a variety of jobs including being a bouncer at the now closed gay club, Copa. He met his life partner Lynn Nestle on Dec. 6, 1977. They moved to Key West where they lived until the late 1980s. In 1989 they bought a home in Victoria Park. Jack was clean and involved in the 12-step recovery community for more than twenty-five years. He worked at the stationary store on Las Olas for a decade. In the last fifteen years, he bought and sold antiques having booths at several malls in Broward and Palm Beach Counties. A celebration of life service will be held Sunday, Jan. 27 from 1 to 4 p.m. at First Congregational church, 2501 NE 30 street in Fort Lauderdale. Contact Bill Scwartzbach at 954-551-5120 for more information.

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January 23, 2013 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

Opinion

Steve Stagon Proposes An AIDS Museum For Wilton Manors

Story and Photos By Tony Adams

t a Jan. 17 unveiling at Wilton Station in Wilton Manors, Steve Stagon surprised and delighted his longtime skeptics by announcing the creation of a World AIDS Museum & Educational Center. At the celebratory event (hosted by Jimmy Cunningham and Tom Stravecky with food by Jason King of the AIDS Healthcare Foundation, wine by Michael Iacino, and flowers by Bobby Kyser of Panache) Stagon, who was diagnosed with HIV 23 years ago, displayed his significant progress at turning his longtime dream for an AIDS museum into a reality for Wilton Manors.

Having managed the complex challenges of 501c3 incorporation, and having enlisted the support, partnership and funding of community leaders, Stagon led an enthusiastic crowd through a sampling of proposed displays, and through an outline of the structure and purpose of the museum. In his speech, he noted that Fort Lauderdale has eleven museums, but Wilton Manors has none. He made a convincing argument for finding a Wilton Manors location for the project—ideally on Wilton Drive within the cluster of gay shops, bars and restaurants— citing demographics and tourism numbers (a million annual gay tourists spending $1.2 billion). Although it might be difficult to find anyone in south Florida whose life has not been touched by the disease and who might need convincing (Broward County has the highest new infection rate in the country,) Stagon offered statistics that support the need for an AIDS Museum. “Since 1980, 60 million people have contracted HIV and 25 million people have died of AIDS worldwide,” he said. “Since 1980, more than 600,000 Americans have died from AIDS complications making it a worse killer than World Wars I and II and Vietnam combined. AIDS is still a crisis. People become complacent about it but every year 17,000 people die of AIDS.” The mission of the museum is to increase awareness and decrease the stigma of AIDS by documenting the history of HIV/AIDS, memorializing those who have suffered from the disease, educating about the Steve Stagon President of the World Aids Museum with Ed Sparan’s sculpture people made of ten years of HIV pill bottles disease, enlightening

people about the continuation and spread of the epidemic, and empowering its survivors. These five parts of the museum’s mission would be presented as five galleries. The first gallery would contain a chronological timeline of events that would tell the story of AIDS in a way that would make the visitor relive the impact of the disease or experience it deeply for the first time. One of the sample displays unveiled at the announcement was a collection of magazine covers about HIV/AIDS. This gallery would emphasize the importance of telling the history of AIDS honestly rather than through the discolored words of antigay religious leaders such as Pat Buchanan and Jerry Fallwell. The second gallery would accomplish the task of turning the numbers into names with the inclusion of the stories of celebrities including Rock Hudson, Liberace, Freddie Mercury and allies Elizabeth Taylor and Princess Diana. New locally made panels for the NAMES Project AIDS Memorial Quilt would be displayed at the museum before being added to the quilt, and recorded personal vocal histories might be an interactive aspect of this gallery. The third gallery would provide the visitor with medical information about the disease. The fourth gallery would enlighten the visitor about the stigma, criminalization and negative stereotypes of the disease. A sample exhibit for this gallery on display at the announcement was a sculpture by

Ed Sparan titled 10 Year Ribbon composed entirely of pill bottles representing ten years of HIV medications taken daily. The fifth gallery would provide information about ways to bring people living with HIV/AIDS back into society and restore them to productive and satisfying lives. Stagon knows his museum is starting small, but he offered examples of other local organizations that had similar beginnings and have grown beyond the imagining of their founders. These include Tuesday’s Angels, The Pride Center, Broward House and The SMART Ride. Stagon’s allies and supporters include experienced local activists from those groups. What does Stagon need now? A 1,0002,500 square foot location for the museum, volunteers of all kinds and funding beyond the contributions of the founding members including Stagon, Jeff Banning, Hugh Beswick, Dr. Elie Schochet, Thomas Sheaffer, The SMART Ride, John Ramos and Bruce Walther. To become a part of this project, please visit www.WorldAIDSMuseum.com or send a donation to PO. BOX 7311, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33338 or call 954 649-7095. For more about Steve Stagon and the weekly POZitive Attitudes meetings at the Pride Center, go to SFGN online at http://bit. ly/10zqXfX

January 23 2013 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

Youth Leadership Retreat By Ryan Dixon

pending Martin Luther King Day weekend in a six-by-three bunk with a young gay man above me that snored wasn’t how I expected to have one of the most enlightening and inspiring moments of my entire life. Miami-based Pridelines Youth Services has been dedicated to educating and empowering South Florida’s LGBT youth and their straight allies in a safe and diverse environment for over 30 years. This year marks the third year the organization has hosted their CampOUT weekend in Fort Lauderdale. The three-night event was filled with fun, learning and growing experiences for everyone, this writer included.

photos courtesy ofRyan Dixon

unclaimed. All of the counselors are involved with Pridelines in one way or another, with several of the counselors being former campers themselves. At the opening ceremonial campfire that first night, everyone introduced himself or herself one by one. When it came to my turn, I told everyone that I was a writer for South Florida Gay News and that I was there to do a story about Pridelines and CampOUT. I told them if they saw me sitting around looking at them and writing things down that I wasn’t being that creepy guy at camp, I was just writing my observations down. I told them that I wanted to maybe sit down with a couple of them and talk about their experiences, but as I learned, all I had to do was watch as the magic of out-and-proud youth made this man a believer in where my community is going. I never had gay youth groups or anything like CampOUT when I was 14 years old, the age of the youngest camper there this weekend. I had two gay friends and they were the only other gay kids in my school. What I first thought was people dividing off into cliques, turned out to be friends saying hello before they went their own ways to find new friends. All of the workshops for the weekend were centered on strengthening the LGBT community, safer sex and self-empowerment. Campers learn about the local endangered wildlife with The most intriguing and inspirational Ranger Mark workshop for me was one on the transgender community. Jessica Lam, Shortly after arriving to the Elk’s Lodge whose story of gender reassignment surgery Youth Camp in Hugh Taylor Birch State Park, after fathering two sons gained national I noticed that I was one of the first campers attention and airtime with Larry King, made to arrive. There was a counselor from a presentation on the umbrella of being Pridelines there that greeted me, showed transgender and what falls under it. After me where I’d be staying, and gave me the lay her slide show, there was a six-person Q&A of the land. The campsite consisted of six panel. All of the panelists were transgender 12-person cabins, a fire pit, trails and a mess individuals, three of whom were between hall. I sat at one of six picnic tables waiting 16 and 18 years old. To hear a young person for the arrival of more than 50 LGBT youth describe how they’re just starting hormones ready for what many of them called the or how their grandmother has pledged to pay highlight of their year. for half of their mastectomy is something After the bus arrived and I helped pull I’ve never heard of. luggage off the bus they rolled in on, name Youth these days, even with all the tags complete with a mini flashlight were stories of bullying and suicide that have handed out and campers were ushered been sensationalized in the media, have to their cabins. Being a veteran of school it so much better and so much easier than campouts, I selected a bottom bunk near generations past. I applaud the parents of the bathroom and by a window. I couldn’t these kids who know who they are and are help but smile as beds were claimed, then willing to help give their child the best life

January 23, 2013 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

possible. I have to admit, I am a bit jealous of the three of them. I also have to admire the brashness and the eagerness to learn these kids have. I wore a tank top to breakfast on Saturday morning, and I had several campers ask me about the red ribbon and dates I have tattooed on my left shoulder. When I explained one date was the date of my HIV diagnosis and the other was the date I lost my first friend to AIDS, they were taken back, yet wanted to know more. I had one camper grill me for two hours on how I contracted it to what it’s like to live with it. Word got around I was positive and more kids came up to literally just hug me Breakfast was the kick-off to every morning at CampOUT and say they were sorry. The fun came to an end them and told them that I have their back I Sunday night with a bonfire and drum circle. would have. I’m looking down at my wrist right now at I went to CampOUT on assignment. I the rainbow bracelet I’m wearing from that went with the goal of writing about what we night and I’m on the verge of tears. The can teach the youth of today. But roles were thoughts, memories and confessions that reversed. were made that night are some I will not Instead of thinking of ways we can teach soon forget. others, take a moment to see what you can Towards the end of the bonfire, one kid actually learn from them. When you do that, broke down sobbing, sharing that he was I hope you can find the blessing that I did. so happy to have a place where he could be himself for a change. If I could have hugged every single one of photos courtesy ofRyan Dixon

Opinion

Publisher’s Editorial

A Moment in History

By Norm Kent

he record will reflect that the inaugural address of President Barack Obama on January 21, 2013 was only 20 minutes long, but its reach and breadth will forever be recorded centuries hence in the history of gay and lesbian America. Equating the human rights of gay and lesbians in the same breath as that of women and African Americans was a statement of incalculable magnitude and astounding fortitude. In front of the justices who will in two months vote on the issue of gay marriage, the President said we are all brothers and sisters. Linking Seneca Falls and Selma and Stonewall, Barack Obama brought tears to my eyes and a cheer to my heart. It was an astounding and long overdue recognition, from the leader of the free world, that we matter, we count, we care. Yes, and we bleed and cry too. Our President spoke to the emerging majority in America, a true melting pot of diversity, from Hispanics to immigrants to the LGBT community. He reminded of us the victories we have won with the sword, and the disgrace we have absorbed with the lash. Most of all, Obama reminded the world that ‘we, the people’ are ultimately the governors of our country, the creators of our destiny, and the champions of our freedom. For any of you that dared to vote for Mitt Romney, ask yourself whether you would have heard those words from the podium of the nation’s Capitol on January 21, 2013, had he won the election for the presidency in November. For all of us that embraced Obama, we can find comfort and grace that he has embraced us back, from his call for universal equality to his selection of a gay Latin American poet to close out the inaugural ceremony. For all of gay and lesbian America, this was a defining moment in history that will survive us all. It invites us to go back to those dark nights when our lives were closeted and closed from public view. It is testimony to pioneers no

longer with us, from Leonard Matlovich to Pedro Zamora to Frank Kameny. It is a tribute to all those who have had the courage to help pave the path and make this day happen. It is a tribute to gay and lesbian Americans who understood that for all the risks, coming out of the closet and defining our lives was the proud and proper thing to do. The courage it may have taken, the pain you may have endured has been tempered and tamed by the recognition we were right and our cause was just, our claim universal. By doing so, one day and one person at a time, we have set forth a powerful wave that has rippled the tides of history and fate in our favor for now and forevermore. For millions of Americans, being who you are became a lot easier yesterday. We have been formally asked to bask in the glow of freedom we were always entitled to. A rainbow came to Washington, D.C., and it has illuminated our lives and this country for eternity. It was the greatest inaugural address of our lifetimes, and I dare say, for many to come.

January 23 2013 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

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January 23, 2013 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

Opinion

Sharp Razors and Trust in Gay Wilton Manors

had an opportunity to wonder if there is a more intimate relationship than the one between you and your barber; second of course to the one with whom you sleep. Your barber has the opportunity once a month to hold a straight edge razor to your neck and stroke without hesitation or complaint; that act has to top the trust list. Men’s haircutting has made more turns

By Ric Reily than the Kangamangus Highway and no matter where it goes in art or business in the end it’s simply a haircut. Yes you can be soaped, scrubbed, sprayed, snipped, sheared, buzzed, shorn, feathered, layered, shaved, trimmed and cut, but in the end it’s a haircut. And in another month you get to be subjected to it once again. I am a loyal haircut customer. Once I find

the person who cuts my hair the way I like I’m hooked and religiously revisit them monthly until some event precipitated either by my moving or their moving separates us. Then the hunt begins anew with my bugging friends with good cuts to divulge their secret stylist or dropping in unannounced at the neighborhood salon hoping for the best. No matter how I find the barber the result remains a mystery until they are done. Sometimes the good news is that the only difference between a good haircut and a bad haircut is two weeks; other times I strut out of there with a whole new attitude. Like a restaurant meal, you just can’t know until it’s served. After moving home to Wilton Manors some months ago I found myself forced to find a new barber. There were choices of course; those who have cut my hair before or find someone new. Being at a particularly adventurous place in life I opted for the latter. That latter led me to Mojo’s, The Men’s Room on Wilton Drive while on a walk at high noon because that day I woke up realizing I had an event that night and looked like I had been sleeping in a cave. A friendly ‘Walk In’s Welcome’ sign beckoned, so I did and without hesitation was greeted, seated and shorn. That first visit was interesting. I never had a barber with sharp instruments snipping about my head dancing like he still had last night’s gay disco running in his head. Yet, in the end he did a quite serviceable job and I left happy. I made an appointment the second time with a friend of a gay friend. After waiting a few minutes for the reserved barber to finish with his customer I was seated, ignored and received the haircut he thought I should have with little to no attention paid to what I requested. Again, in the end it was not a disaster though I knew I would not specifically request him again. As the Holidays approached I again marched to Mojo’s. In I walked, as a walkin, to be graciously greeted as usual. I was assigned to Francis, who reached out his hand to shake mine and lead me to his chair; that is how it started, with a handshake. As usual I proceeded to tell him what I would like with little to no expectation that I should be provided with that request. It seems barbers have a style and that is what you get. When lucky enough to find the barber whose style coincides with your desire, there is a marriage made in heaven. Francis, who is not gay and has a six month

old son, actually listened and proceeded. Surprisingly enough I began to see it come together; I thought to myself, this guy is obviously a pro. He worked the clippers till I thought they would overheat. Then he dug a smaller one from the drawer and began again. Lo and behold he dug a straight razor from the tall jar of blue water, changed the blade, lathered different points on my neck and face and began to shave. Just a touch here and there and a long run down the hair lines on the back of the neck. All gentle, controlled and flawless. Now I began to smile. Never was there even an intimation of hurry; always

was he quietly competent. No matter what one does in life I appreciate competence. It does not matter to me your station; just do it well, with meaning and skill. Let me know you are very good, or the best, at what you do. I appreciate that. Francis is competent and proves that all good haircutters are not gay. And, when he was finally finished, having blown and then brushed all the little hairs from my face and neck, he thanked me for coming and led me to the register. There I paid him and could not resist over tipping Francis, for Francis is a real professional and the Holiday season was upon me. As I turned to leave he rang the big brass bell over the register and all the other barbers looked up. I have no idea what the bell is for though that was the first time I have heard it rung. Upon my arrival that day the one who had been recommended by my gay friend and had previously ignored my requests and cut my hair in silence to his choice, caught my eye in tacit recognition. The bell rang recognition into his brain. For a moment I knew he knew he had missed an opportunity to create a regular recurring customer. Then he returned to his own world and Francis is my man.

January 23 2013 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

The Rare Reporter

Texan Blogger Who Exposed Sex Crimes; Now Convicted of Sex Crime By David Webb

Photo courtesey of David Webb

fter sitting through a surreal, the sexual activity, and that he came from six-day child sexual assault trial a broken, troubled home that probably recently I came away with the contributed to him being alone late at knowledge that the least likely of night drinking with an adult 12 years older people can fall victim to disaster if they are than him. Nor does it matter that the crime foolish enough to consume alcohol with a occurred in 2007, six years ago, when Dauben minor who legally cannot give consent to was 26. In Texas, there is no statute of sexually activity. limitations on the The outcome of the crime of child trial of Joey Dauben, a sexual assault, former Texas blogger who which legally specialized in rooting defines any out and uncovering child person younger pornography rings and than 17 as a child. sexual predators, left me The age of dazed. For a year after his consent varies indictment I believed he from state-towould be acquitted, but two state, and it days into the trial I began to is incumbent experience a sinking feeling upon the adult that Dauben, 31, harbored to be sure that an ugly secret that would the person is of soon send him to prison as legal age. When a sexual offender. a teenager is It seemed impossible traveling, the age that the youthful, charming of consent is 18, Dauben who came from no matter what a humble background Texas blogger, Joey Dauben, was recently conthe legal age is in and seemed so driven victed of having sex with a 14-year-old boy at a their home state. church camping retreat. to be someone someday In Texas, it is also could succumb to a fate so illegal to provide sinister that it would destroy his life. But he alcohol to a minor under the age of 21. apparently did, and nothing will ever erase The Texas youth did not make an “outcry” the stigma he must now carry for the rest of about the sexual contact with Dauben until his life as a registered sex offender. Certainly, the summer of 2008, a year after it happened, he will never achieve his goal of attaining an when he told a friend, who told a pastor, elected office, a goal he had unsuccessfully who told the youth’s father. Then after that, sought several times before his arrest. it still took until the summer of 2011 for an The most shocking part of the crime was active investigation to get underway led by that it involved a 14-year-old male teenager the Texas Rangers and the Navarro County attending a church camping trip that Dauben Sheriff’s Department of Corsicana, Texas. helped chaperone. It took the seven-man, After his arrest and indictment in five-woman jury only two hours to convict December 2011, Dauben declared his Dauben and only slightly longer to sentence innocence and alleged that he was the victim him to four 10-year stints in state prison of a conspiracy orchestrated by the political with only one sentence to be probated. establishment he regularly criticized on his To the best of my knowledge Dauben was blog the EllisCountyObserver.com. I found straight, but apparently anything can happen the thought of a political conspiracy a little late at night when two people are drinking far-fetched, but I considered the possibility alcohol alone. The once-promising writer that law enforcement officials had put a little who started off in high school as a sports extra effort in investigating an allegation reporter for a small town Texas newspaper against someone who rankled them. an hour out of Dallas acknowledged to me During the trial, the youth’s mother after the verdict he was highly intoxicated testified she made numerous phone on the night of the crime. calls over many months’ time before she It didn’t matter that the teenager, now convinced a Texas Ranger to act on her 20, testified he willingly participated in complaint.

January 23, 2013 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

Another peculiar element of the saga determine whether the three 10-yearemerged when I learned a sizable number sentences he received will be stacked or if he of people had complained that the blogger will be allowed to serve them concurrently. unfairly and unjustly accused them of sexual Depending on the decision, the earliest date assault and other crimes and improprieties. he will be eligible for parole will be after A group of people went so far as to start serving five years or 15 years. a blog where they could support each In addition to the four felonies of which other and vent their rage about Dauben’s he was convicted in connection with the outrageous reporting. child sexual assault, Dauben was convicted Oddly, many other people Dauben of a fifth felony in November 2012 for befriended viewed him as “good-hearted” fraudulent use of identifying information and a champion for them against in connection with a story he wrote falsely government oppression. They could not accusing a man of sexually assaulting his believe he committed the crime of which he own child. That conviction led to a five-year was accused. probated sentence. It all came to a head in a district state It’s hard to make sense of Dauben’s court recently, and a made-for-television relentless, reckless pursuit of villains unless movie could not have proved more heart- his fear about being discovered led him wrenching. On one hand, the jury heard from to it in an effort to divert suspicion from the victim, his himself. In turn, the They could not believe he brother, and his subjects of his reports committed the crime of which he mother. They and others in the was accused. heard about community probably the confusion became fearful of him, and distress and even the physical pain the leading to complaints to law enforcement victim felt after engaging in sex with Dauben. authorities and the Ellis County charges. The victim, whose sexual orientation is It became a vicious cycle that eventually unclear, also testified he received suggestive ensnared Dauben. electronic messages that made him feel The former blogger, who once said in uneasy from Dauben after the assault. an interview in a Dallas newspaper that he On the other hand, Dauben’s anguished hoped one day to run for and be elected mother testified on his behalf in the President of the United States now faces the evidentiary phase of the trial, and friends prospect of spending what could have been whom he had helped took the stand for him the most productive years of his life in the during the punishment phase of the trial. hell of an Texas prison. When Dauben took the stand against his Some of the last words Dauben said to me lawyer’s advice, the jury obviously saw a in the courtroom before the bailiff led him deeply troubled man who might be suffering off in handcuffs were, “I’m going to take from paranoid delusions and denial. He responsibility for this.” repeatedly broke down and cried on the In the end, one night of reckless abandon stand. It was unclear whether Dauben’s ruined two people’s lives – one a young mental problems began prior to the crime teenager, the other a young adult -- and he committed six years ago or if they began neither one will ever be quite what they later, slowly festering afterwards as fear might have been had they not lingered enveloped him about the crime. inappropriately on the shore of a Texas lake I later learned Dauben, whose lawyer one sultry night drinking alcohol six years described him to the jury as “small and not ago. strong,” had himself suffered molestation David Webb is a veteran journalist who from older boys and possibly an adult when has covered all phases of the news for the he was young, according to him. mainstream and alternative media for more Now, Dauben is sitting in the Navarro than three decades. County Jail waiting for the judge to

Opinion

Trans Panic Violence in Lost Girl By Diana O’Brien

yFy Channel’s program Lost Girl has received a lot of attention for its sexually charged plot lines and positive portrayal of lesbian and bisexual characters. Even the Gay and Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation has taken notice of the show, promoting it in The GLAAD Wrap and What to Watch. But the season premiere, “Caged Fae,” broadcast on Jan. 14 2013, sparked outrage amongst the LGBT community. The episode introduced its villain of the week, a beautiful but sadistic and sexually abusive women’s prison warden and female leader of the amazon women prison guards. The evil warden violates the inmates and secretly impregnates them to sell their babies. The climax of the plot twists when the warden is discovered to be an anatomically male “trickster”. The show’s heroine Bo “outs” the warden when she notices beard stubble during a kiss. When the men-hating

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watchdog GLAAD (the Gay and Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation) to address this incident. After nearly two days of silence on the issue, GLAAD posted a response on its blog. After speaking with GLAAD, the producers of Lost Girl apologized for the offense, and stated: “Lost Girl prides itself on being open and accepting of everyone, and are enthusiastic supporters of the GLBT community. We want to encourage a society in which everyone can feel comfortable to express and be who they are without judgment… We strive to create three dimensional characters, who empower all viewers regardless of sexuality or gender.” GLAAD also took to heart the outrage of the transgender community and the disappointment with their slow response. Their analysis of the episode in the context

prison guards forcefully grab the warden’s genitals, trans panic violence ensues. The amazon guards scream and attack the warden hand-to-hand and with night sticks, while the warden cries out, “My mother was an amazon! I am one of you!” The guards beat the warden (off-screen) and leave her for dead. In the show wrap-up, it is revealed that the warden survived, yet still identified as one of the amazon women. The character of the warden was viewed by many as an egregious false stereotype of trans women as male sexual predators that want into women-only facilities to “trap” and violate women. Furthermore, the violent “justice” that she received bore an unmistakable resemblance to real-life instances of trans panic violence, and evoked images of the murder of Angie Zapata. Zapata was brutally beaten to death by her new boyfriend in 2008. During the trial, the defendant claimed temporary insanity due to the “trans panic” that occurred when he discovered her Jan. 14 premiere of Lost Girl sparked national controversy over portrayal of genitalia was male. This transsexual. defense was refuted. The murderer was found guilty and sentenced to life without parole. of a recent defamatory editorial in The “Caged Fae” was perceived as a shameful Observer was absolutely spot on. This exploitation which justified this kind of editorial claimed that “transgender women trans panic violence. are ‘tricking’ their way into female-only This incident was especially disturbing for places for perverted or criminal purposes.” its transphobic stereotyping and violence, as It was a poignant backdrop to the Lost Girl well as similarity to the real-life perils that controversy. transgender people face. It is worthy of note It must also be acknowledged that however, that it was a teachable moment. alternative media blogs like Bilerico.com The show’s producers have publicly taken and Planetransgender.blogspot.com played a stand in support of the entire LGBT an important role in raising immediate community. awareness of the offensive episode and need Outcry over this episode was heard by for public accountability. many leaders in the transgender community, Public pressure from this exposure as well as and a campaign was started to hold Lost Girl privately voiced concerns by many influential producer Prodigy Pictures, SyFy Channel members of the transgender community and parent company NBC Universal, resulted in a stunning victory for the fair accountable. This included appeals to media depiction of transgender persons in the media

January 23 2013 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

January 23, 2013 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

Gideon’s Gauntlet

The Rusty Side of the Coin

By Gideon Grudo, Managing Editor

e’re all wrong about the sometimes even persuading ourselves we shooting in Connecticut know everything there is to know. that left 20 children without One side says more guns on campus. futures, without first-evers Another side says more guns to the people. and without unforgettable moments. One side of the coin says government We’re wrong, not because our ideas are intervention – the other side says populist wrong, but because we’re talking about the intervention. There are more sides, like wrong thing. minorities questioning I realized this after reading the umpteenth the Sandy Hook story about the shooting and what incident itself and lawmakers, pundits and celebrities have whether we have all the to say about it. Just on Jan. 22, a shooter details on it. Those sides in Texas went wild. As of press time, I of the argument get didn’t have enough credible information to shunned and ostracized mention it here. immediately. Stick to the These stories — and Facebook posts and beaten path of the bicameral conversation, tweets — promote a limited dialogue. A and you’ll be alright. dialogue based almost solely on reacting to This all sound familiar? It is. We’ve something that’s happened, and nothing been having the same conversation in this more. country since it became one over 200 years A reactive society tends to focus on the ago. It’s the same conversation that keeps symptom of any given problem, rather than us occupied, allowing us to be slacktivists the problem itself. Most of the proposed online and indifferent in real life. And it’s solutions, therefore, focus on how to keep a conversation that focuses on symptoms 20 children from being shot up again, which rather than problems. is a symptom. I contacted the National Rifle Association, The problem itself isn’t as easily but they haven’t responded to me as of press discernible. It requires research and time. introspection, trend But I got this, from analysis and historical NRA’s website: perspective. In other “No foreign words, it’s not the influence has ‘how’ that we need to jurisdiction over fix. It’s the ‘why.’ We the freedoms our tend to blur the lines Founding Fathers between the two all guaranteed to us,” too often. says NRA Chief Armed guards Executive Officer won’t solve this and Executive Vice problem, nor will President Wayne more easily accessible LaPierre during an healthcare. And not address at the U.N. because those are bad Arms Trade Treaty things, necessarily, Stuart Gaffney, media director of Marriage Equal- Conference in New ity, U.S.A., has been together with his husband but because we don’t John “Without Lewis for 25 years. The couple was one of the York. even know what the plaintiff couples in the California case for marriage apology, the NRA equality in 2008. problem is. wants no part of any That ignorance is treaty that infringes alright. But only as long as we accept it and on the precious right of lawful Americans to face it, that “50 percent of solving a problem” keep and bear arms.” ideal. I also tried to reach someone at the Brady “Here’s something we don’t know,” we Campaign to Prevent Gun Violence, and no should say and scratch our heads, “Let’s one responded as of press time. dig into it and figure it out.” This is what From its website, this coming from Galileo did. What Darwin did. What Einstein Dan Gross, the campaign’s president: did. Instead, we veer the conversation into “We will work with the Administration easily understood shades of black and over the coming days to give voice to the white, ignoring what we don’t know and American public who so strongly support

common sense legislative policies that can immediately prevent gun violence, such as universal background checks. We also reaffirm the Brady Campaign’s commitment to lead the way toward better public health and safety education programs regarding the almost 300 million guns already in the hands of mostly law-abiding citizens.” This is what the dialogue is. I suggest it should be something else: Why did the Newtown maniac turn maniac. Why does our society breed these maniacs? That’s a scary thing to ask. It implies that our society may be doing something wrong. It implies that we’re volatile. But most importantly, it implies that we have a lot of work to do. Work that supersedes political terms. Work that may not have a clear hero, a clear doer, a clear party label.

a nationwide grassroots organization working for full, civil marriage equality. “The movement for marriage equality is one part of a broader part for full LGBT equality. It’s a very important piece, but it is by no means the only piece in the puzzle that gives us equal rights and equal citizenship,” he told me. Gaffney’s parents were an interracial couple. Once all 50 states legalized their marriage, he said, their legal struggle ended, but their social struggle was still running. “At that time, polls showed between 80 and 90 percent thought [the decision to legalize inter racial marriages] was wrong,” he said. “Sometimes civil rights laws lead popular attitudes.” Both Besen and Gaffney mentioned employment discrimination issues, public accommodations, and transgender issues as just a few examples of matters that need resolution. “[These issues] keep people from coming out of the closet,” Besen concluded. Here are more examples: What isn’t scary is dumbing the Gays still can’t donate blood, as they’re conversation down to its most basic and subjected to an ‘80s law based on a nowNeanderthal form: More tribal power versus defunct fear of HIV. Same-sex adoptions less tribal power. are still hard to come by and are privy It makes for easy water cooler arguments, to discrimination. The socially accepted complete with easy Facebook posts and make-up of a “manly” man is so deformed catchy one-liners. And it’s not the only issue that even heterosexuals don’t know what it we treat this way. means. Same thing goes for a “proper” lady. Should gay marriage be legal or not? The What does that mean? Is Kardashian the role two sides argue various dimensions to the model? Is Tom Cruise? Am I? Are you? issue, but all focus on marriage, a symptom Your arm hurts when you break it. of a bigger problem. And simply put: Fixing Drugs can make the pain go away (or fix the symptom of illegal gay marriage will the symptom), but surgery is necessary to not fix the problem of fix the problem (broken discrimination based on bones). Guns are the orientation and identity. morphine in this I consulted Wayne elementary metaphor, Besen on this. He’s the as is healthcare. Surgery executive director of Truth signifies something Wins Out, a nonprofit that beyond my understanding zealously battles the “exin the metaphor. I’m too gay” myth. I asked him ignorant to know what to what would happen if the do here. federal government were But I’m smart enough to hypothetically force to know something needs every state to legalize to be done. same-sex marriage It’s time we face the tomorrow. Would that fix ugly side of the coin. all the problems plaguing The side we neglect so Wayne Besen, executive director of Truth Wins Out the LGBT community? He much none of us could responded with a quick recognize it if it fell on “no.” the sidewalk beside us. It’s time we question “You can’t legislate attitudes. Laws are ourselves and our norms, our daily routines only half the battle. I do think it would put and our annual priorities. us on equal footing in many respects and it It’s time we question the American way. would be a great leap forward, but there’d be It may not be all it’s cracked up to be. And more work to do,” he said. “There are many before you color me Red, remember Howard places in this country still where people Zinn’s words on dissent. who are openly gay are treated as outcasts. To fix something, we must first accept that That large stigma is not going to go away it’s broken. Ignore that or deny it, and we’ll overnight.” definitely fail because we won’t even try. Then I spoke with Stuart Gaffney, the It’s time we face our shortcomings as a media director for Marriage Equality U.S.A., society.

Photo Courtesy of Stuart Gaffney

A reactive society tends to focus on the symptom of any given problem, rather than the problem itself.

January 23 2013 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

Jesse’s Journal

The SAGE Generation

By Jesse Monteagudo — now Services & Advocacy for GLBT [sic] Elders — works with LGBT elder adults and aging service providers to address and overcome the challenges of discrimination in elder adult service settings. Locally, SAGE of South Florida was founded in 1994 by LGBT seniors who were active in chapters in New York City or other cities. Unlike the national organization, SAGE of South Florida kept its original name and its focus is social rather than political. According to its Mission Statement, “SAGE of South Florida is a non-profit organization for Senior Action in a Gay Environment to enrich the lives of the [LGBT] senior community through membership inclusive of age, gender, race, nationality and religion. We believe this can be accomplished by sponsoring social alternatives. To provide personal interaction, offering educational opportunities to deal with the special needs of aging, and promoting contact with the isolated and homebound persons of our community.” Though SAGE’s demographics range far and wide, most of its members are of retirement age. (Still in my fifties, I am one of the South Florida chapter’s youngest members.) SAGE of South Florida’s social events and programs provide its members with a wide range of activities (Visit www.sagewebsite.org for details). They include monthly dinners, a monthly “Lunch & Learn,” a monthly SAGE Women’s Lunch at the Golden Corral in Tamarac, a weekly Men’s Drop-In at the Pride Center at Equality Park, a single men’s group, a SAGE Book Club at Stonewall National Museum and Archives, a SAGE Computer Club, a SAGE on the Border/ Alternatives in Boca Raton, an annual sea

Luncheon gave us the opportunity to connect with friends we have not seen since the last SAGE event. The LGBT community, like society as a whole, is youth-oriented. Groups like SAGE, Prime Timers and A Celebration of Friends (among others) provide needed services and opportunities to a growing segment of our population. I joined SAGE over a year ago, after accepting the fact that I was not getting any younger and that I needed a social group that reflected that fact. Though SAGE is not the sum total of my social life, I enjoy many of its activities as well as the women and men who make them possible. This is the first of a series that I plan to write about SAGE, as well as Prime Timers, A Celebration of Friends, and other community organizations by and for LGBT seniors. If there is a group of people, organizations or events that you think I should write about, please contact me through SFGN or at jessemonteagudo@comcast.net.

Photo courtesey of SAGE & Dave Sanders

enior Action in a Gay Environment (the original SAGE) was founded in New York City in 1978 to improve the lives of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender older adults. According to the national mission statement (in www.sageusa.org), “SAGE has pioneered programs and services for the aging LGBT community, provided technical assistance and training to expand opportunities for LGBT older people across the country, and provided a national voice on LGBT aging issues.” SAGE focuses on advocacy at both local and national levels, as well as activities, groups and programs that encourage LGBT older adults to stay connected with each other and with the community. Led by Executive Director Michael Adams, SAGE

cruise and a series of quickly sold-out theater parties. Many of the SAGE events are held on weekdays, which is convenient for retirees but not for those of us who still have day jobs. Even so, SAGE has something for everyone. I recently attended SAGE’s Milestone Luncheon, held at the Pride Center at Equality Park. Over a hundred SAGE members and guests joined to honor the birthdays of SAGE’s most senior members, who have reached the ages of 90, 85, 80 or 75 years. The Milestone Luncheon was a festive affair, with an Invocation by Rabbi Noah Kitty of Congregation Etz Chaim, a special performance by the Fort Lauderdale Gay Men’s Chorus under the direction of Dr. Gary Keating (now back at the helm of the Chorus he founded over 26 years ago). The Luncheon was catered by Chef Giacomo Dresseno of Primavera Restaurant, a SAGE favorite. And of course there was birthday cake. Most importantly, SAGE’s Milestone

Michael Adams, SAGE Executive Director

January 23, 2013 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

COVER STORY

Barbra Streisand: The ‘Funny Girl’ Returns Legend talks screen comeback, being a gay icon and her own guilt trip By Chris Azzopardi

arbra Streisand takes center stage, but she’s not busting out “The Way We Were.” Not today, anyway. The legend is promoting her first major film in 16 years at the Four Seasons Los Angeles. Her hair is perfectly coiffed and – dressed in her usual all-black attire – she’s got the off-the-shoulder look going on. Hello, gorgeous, indeed. Not long into the interview, a makeup artist waiting in the wings pats any remnants of forehead sweat. You don’t let a legend perspire – and Barbra Streisand is the epitome of an American treasure: a consummate singer with a timeless mezzo-soprano; an Emmy, Oscar and Grammy award winner; and the woman who stole hearts in A Star is Born. To us, a gay icon. After a short stint of recent sold-out shows, Streisand returns to starring-role status in The Guilt Trip alongside goofball Seth Rogen – for real: Babs with the Zack and Miri Make a Porno actor as a mother-son duo that goes road-tripping together and gets into all sorts of shenanigans. If it weren’t for director Anne Fletcher (The Proposal), who would only do the film with Babs, there’d be no movie – and, worse, no Barbra. Streisand, along with Rogen and Fletcher, sat down to chat about the reason she finally gave in (thank her own gay son for that), what she thinks of being a gay icon and how she’s managed to stay successful for nearly six decades.

Q+A

What are you two like off set? S: The way we talk in real life is not

B - Barbra Streisand S - Seth Rogen A - Anne Fletcher

entirely different than our rapport in the movie. It’s a lot of me trying to explain things to her about modern times and her trying to feed me shit I don’t want to eat.

B: I was the one with the iPhone. S: She had an iPhone before me. I was like, “I gotta get myself one of these. If Barbra can work an iPhone, it’s gotta be fun.”

B: Yesterday he asked me if I had a Twitter account. I said, “I don’t know.”

S: I showed her that she did! I change her clocks during daylight savings and all that stuff.

You must know a lot of gay people are going to see this movie – B: We hope so. Because Seth is such a huge gay icon.

S:Sarcastically) I’m a gay icon? Do gay people like Barbra, too? I didn’t know that.

Barbra, how do you feel about the label of “gay icon” and do you think your own son, Jason Gould, thinks of you as one? B: He doesn’t see me as an icon. He sees me as his mother who touches his hair too much. No – I love being an icon to anybody. Equal rights, you know!

s: Yeah. Me too. (Laughs)

Barbra, how much contact did you and Jason have when you were considering the role? B: He actually was very important in my decision to make the movie. He was recovering from back surgery, so he was in bed for a few days after, and I brought the script over and we read it out loud. It was interesting, actually. His father was in the room, too. Isn’t that funny? We were both coddling our son, so he became the audience and Jason was reading the parts with me and he said, “I think you should do it, Mom.” I really trust his integrity and his opinion. He has great taste in whatever he chooses to do. And he clinched the deal.

A: I was with you all over the world, but I love that Jason just one night says, “Yes, Mom, do it.” (I said that) for a whole year!

B: Well, he’s my son. (Laughs) Who is another gay icon you want to work with, Anne? a: I don’t really like the “gay icons,” by the way. I don’t really respond to them very well. I think Barbra is so grounded in many different things, but there’s some of them – I’m really insulting gay sensibility. (Laughs) But Liza Minnelli. I do love Liza.

What did your gay friends think when you told them you were working with Barbra? a: Everyone in my life is gay, but I have one best friend who has been obsessed with her since he was a child. His entire childhood was saved because of Barbra – with her music and her movies. His mom had just died four or five years ago, so for him to meet her on the movie – and her and I having such a relationship – was just full circle.

Barbra, what’s your beauty secret? B: God, what is my secret? S: Sitting next to me helps. B: (Laughs) He is so funny. If you knew all my self-doubt, my god – I don’t know. Maybe I’m slightly childish.

A: Your spirit is youthful. B: Yeah. I kind of like the child part of me.

What was harder for you, Barbra: the drama or the comedy elements of the film? B: Eating steak! That was the hardest thing, I think. But no, they’re both the same. I don’t think there’s a distinction between how you play drama or comedy, if it’s based in truth.

A: This woman may not like steak, but she’s a foodie. You’ve never met a foodie in your whole life until you’ve been with Barbra Streisand. This woman loves food more than anything – and she will eat it! She’s a bottomless pit. We had many discussions about that steak scene. From Barbra’s side it was, “Does it have to be that? It seems a little gross.”

January 23 2013 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

What about reading it with your son sealed the deal? B: Mothers develop guilt trips. I feel guilty as a parent that I couldn’t pick up my son every day from school and bake him cookies. I know that feeling. I know that feeling a lot. Having a famous parent is an odd thing. I thought it was interesting to investigate trying to be my son’s friend versus a mother. It was a true story. It’s (writer) Dan (Fogelman) and his mother. She was a fan of mine, and Dan wrote this lovely script. It just felt like it was meant to be. Meant for me to come back to work in a starring role. It was time to challenge myself again. Of course, I made it very difficult for them to hire me, because I kept wanting an out: “I really don’t wanna schlep to Paramount. It’s two hours each way, so would you, like, rent a warehouse and build the sets in the Valley no more than 45 minutes from my house?” They said yes. A: I wasn’t gonna do this movie without these two. There wasn’t backup. If Seth said no, there was no replacement; if Barbra said no, there was no replacement. It was them, or I wasn’t gonna make the movie. B: I said to Anne, “Would you make the movie without me?” And she said no. And I felt bad! Another guilt trip, right? S: I was open to Shirley MacLaine. (Laughs) No, it’s not true. I only would’ve done it if Barbra was doing it. B: It was great to feel wanted.

I imagine directing a legend like Barbra Streisand would be intimidating. Was it? Did she call the shots? a: It’s not intimidating. She comes to work as an actor, as an artist, and she’s been doing it for so long that all the pieces fall back into place exactly how they were. We’re all there for the common good, so she would come to work as any other actor. She’s a legend, so that’s a little different. But it was never intimidating, because she’s just so genuine. She had my back, and the support I had from her was extraordinary.

So no diva moments?

A: Never. I know we’ve all heard the stories about her endlessly throughout all these years, but I can’t say whether they’re true or false. I just know from my experience I had an unbelievable experience with her, and I would do it again. She works harder than anyone. And her brain never shuts off. That’s the only thing I would complain about! Like, “Please stop thinking for just five minutes – because I’m tired.” (Laughs) Even if people think of her as a diva, this role really takes you out of that mindset. You never think of Barbra Streisand, “the diva.”That’s the best compliment. I’m glad you say that. This was part of our conversation: “If we’re gonna win the audience, you have to be every mother. You have to capture the essence of moms now. You can’t be glamorous-beautiful. You have to be every mom for us to tell the story the right way.”

Anne, did Barbra ever break into song? A: Never. Barbra will not sing. I sang an

You can sing, act, produce, write and direct. What can’t you do well?

awful lot to her. But she will not sing. There’s a thing that she did in the movie that we cut out where she’d go, “Hmm, hmm, hmm.” She would do rhythmic things that she does with her voice that only Barbra can do – and I would take that as singing. But she would never do it. Never. She’s so rude. (Laughs) Give us a free concert, Barbra. She’s like, “Pay for it!”

B: I can’t cook at all. I mean, I would not know how to make coffee. I took cooking classes. I know how to make chocolate soufflé. Just ask me if I want to make it. I’d rather have somebody else make the chocolate soufflé – and I eat it. When I tried to cook, put it this way: It was never appetizing to eat. And the hands! So filthy with the stuff. And then cleaning up – no, I don’t like that part.

What do you want audiences to take away from the film? B: I want them to be moved and I want them to see themselves in the movie. I want them to get closer to their children. A lot of things. It’s a transformative kind of movie. They start at one point and are both kind of tragically alone, not finding a mate, and then at the end there are many more possibilities. Horizons open. He took me out of my shell. It’s about love. I always say it’s a different kind of love story.

S: Which to me sounds gross. B: See where your mind goes? Always to the sexual. S: Right in the gutter. Chris Azzopardi is the editor of Q Syndicate, the international LGBT wire service. Reach him via his website at www. chris-azzopardi.com.

Barbra, you must see a lot of scripts, right? B: I don’t. You see, everybody thinks like you. Meanwhile, I go, “Where are the scripts?” (Laughs) It’s not the same as when I last made a film. They’re not interested in love stories. It’s a different time. I don’t like it as much.

What’s the secret to your success? B: BS: Oh my god. I don’t make that many movies and I don’t make that many appearances so I ...

S: ... leave them wanting more. B: Less is more. Maybe that keeps a little mystery or something.

January 23, 2013 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

What is STRIBILD? STRIBILD is a prescription medicine used to treat HIV-1 in adults who have never taken HIV-1 medicines before. It combines 4 medicines into 1 pill to be taken once a day with food. STRIBILD is a complete single-tablet regimen and should not be used with other HIV-1 medicines. STRIBILD does not cure HIV-1 infection or AIDS. To control HIV-1 infection and decrease HIV-related illnesses you must keep taking STRIBILD. Ask your healthcare provider if you have questions about how to reduce the risk of passing HIV-1 to others. Always practice safer sex and use condoms to lower the chance of sexual contact with body fluids. Never reuse or share needles or other items that have body fluids on them.

IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION What is the most important information I should know about STRIBILD? STRIBILD can cause serious side effects: • Build-up of an acid in your blood (lactic acidosis), which is a serious medical emergency. Symptoms of lactic acidosis include feeling very weak or tired, unusual (not normal) muscle pain, trouble breathing, stomach pain with nausea or vomiting, feeling cold especially in your arms and legs, feeling dizzy or lightheaded, and/or a fast or irregular heartbeat. • Serious liver problems. The liver may become large (hepatomegaly) and fatty (steatosis). Symptoms of liver problems include your skin or the white part of your eyes turns yellow (jaundice), dark “tea-colored” urine, light-colored bowel movements (stools), loss of appetite for several days or longer, nausea, and/or stomach pain. • You may be more likely to get lactic acidosis or serious liver problems if you are female, very overweight (obese), or have been taking STRIBILD for a long time. In some cases, these serious conditions have led to death. Call your healthcare provider right away if you have any symptoms of these conditions.

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PALIO Date: 01.4.13 • Client: Gilead • Product: Stribild • File Name: 2484_pgiqdp_South_FL_Gay_news_Brian_lo2.indd

Brian

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PALIO Date: 01.4.13 • Client: Gilead • Product: Stribild • File Name: 2484_pgiqdp_South_FL_Gay_news_Brian_lo2.indd

Bria

THE FITNESS GUY

Working With Kettlebells By Michael Verdugo & Frankie Watson

ettlebells have become a standard piece of equipment in most gyms these days. The reason being that they provide a versatile workout and simply put, they’re fun. You can plan an entire hour workout routine just using kettlebells. They allow you to workout every muscle group and offer cardiovascular benefits as well. They are ideal for interval training; which focuses on bringing your heart rate up and down; allowing for muscle confusion. Not only is it important to change up your workout routine but also how you workout those same muscle groups. This prevents your body from plateauing and provides you with continued results. Add kettlebells to your current workout and you will be amazed at the difference you see and feel. Kettlebells are a Russian Military invention dating back to the 1700’s to train and condition their soldiers with the intention of increases stamina, strength and flexibility. Although kettlebells have come a long way since then; they still keep their original design and fitness philosophy. It’s 2013 and they come in pink and a variety of other colors now! Speaking of 2013, how are those New Year’s resolutions coming along? Bodytek is a new and revolutionary total body workout program which is scientifically designed to significantly improve your fitness level through interval cardio and strength training. At Bodytek we provide our clients with group personal training. Group personal training will make achieving your fitness goals more enjoyable and motivating than you ever thought possible. Visit bodytekfitness. com for more information. Two Locations: Wilton Manors (Recently Expanded) and Davie. Classes offered: Total Body, Abs Core & Cardio, Spinning, Yoga and Pilates. Mike Verdugo Owner/Trainer www. bodytekfitness.com Two Locations, 2216 N Dixie HWY, Wilton Manors, FL 33305 & 7020 SW 22nd CT, Davie, FL 33317

Reverse Lunge with Pass Through Stand straight up with one kettlebell in hand, knees slightly bent. Whichever leg you start with lunge it back so that your knee is just barely touching the floor. Pass the kettlebell from one hand to the other through your legs. Hold the lunge and continue to pass the kettlebell up over your supporting leg and back under your legs passing it from hand to hand. Back up in starting position repeat with the other leg lunging back. Once you get the form down, the movement should be one fluid motion; lunging back, holding the position and passing the kettlebell through. Complete three sets of ten to twelve reps on each leg.

Deadlift Upright Row

Stand straight up with one kettlebell in hand, knees slightly bent. Working each arm’s tricep individually, position the kettlebell behind your head with your elbow bent at a ninety-degree angle. Extend your arm up and back down to starting position maintaining the ninety-degree angle. Keep your elbow up and locked so that you are isolating your tricep. All the motion should begin at your elbow; pressing the kettlebell up and back down. Alternate arms completing three sets of twelve to fifteen reps.

Overhead Tricep Extension Starting position: Knees bent, back straight and a kettlebell in each hand. It helps to stand in front of a mirror so that you can monitor your stance. Keep your weight in your heels and use your legs to stand upright. Pull the kettlebells up to chest level with your elbows pointing away from your body. In a controlled motion bring the kettlebells back down your waist and bend down to work out your legs. Repeat this exercise in three sets of twelve to fifteen reps.

2 January 23 2013 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

Views of the News

Terry DeCarlo’s Wedding Reception

Director of Development of Broward House Terry DeCarlo (right) feeds his husband Bill Huelsman (left) wedding cake at their reception here in South Florida. The couple was recently married New York, Dec. 15 under the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree by Reverend Annie Lawrence. They’ve been together for 17 years.

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January 23, 2013 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

January 23 2013 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

FEATURE

Moving on up After running Patrick Murphy’s campaign and spending 26 years in politics, Eric Johnson isn’t stopping anytime soon By Regina Kaza

ric Johnson remembers making Ronald Reagan and George Bush posters in 1984. He was in the fourth grade. “I was always interested in politics when I was younger,” he said. But it wasn’t until he graduated Boca High School that Johnson would switch to the democratic party and work on campaigns for Florida Congressman Robert Wexler and most recently, Patrick Murphy. When Johnson was in the third grade, his parents moved the family to Seattle, Wash. Johnson tried to get involved in school politics but had little luck. “I was not a popular kid,” Johnson said. “I had tried to be involved in student government in my middle school and didn’t

Photo Courtesy of Eric Johnson

school’s student council all four years, always supporting the Republican party. It wasn’t until Johnson finished high school at 19 years old that he switched his views. “I graduated high school and I started becoming more in touch with my sexuality,” he said. “Being pro choice and pro rights it didn’t feel like home. It was feeling more hostile than what I was learning to identify with. Looking back it’s so odd, I can’t imagine running a campaign for the Republican Party.” Fresh out of high school, Johnson ran for the Palm Beach County school board. He lost but went on to volunteer and work on Democratic campaigns. Some of his biggest accomplishments have been working as Wexler’s chief of staff and campaigning with congressman Ted Deutch. Turning 42 this year, Johnson has been working in politics for about 26 years. His friend of 16 years and currently Deutch’s chief of staff, Joshua Rubin, said he learned the ropes of running campaigns from Johnson. “If you want to get anywhere in politics you need to be loyal,” Rubin said. “And Eric [Johnson] definitely taught me that loyalty means everything in politics.” Johnson helped Murphy win Fla. District 18 and beat Congressman Allen West by 0.65 percent votes. Johnson said it was his most difficult race, but one he’s most proud of. “He’s not shy,” Rubin said Patrick Murphy’s campaign manager, Eric Johnson pictured with Presiabout Johnson. “He tells the dent Barack Obama. Johnson switched political parties when he was truth whether it’s comfortable 19 years old and has worked on Democratic campaigns for Florida congressmen like Robert Wexler and Ted Deutch. or not and that benefits members of congress and do very well.” candidates whether they like it or not.” After living in Seattle for about six years, And even though Johnson doesn’t plan to Johnson’s family moved back to Boca Raton stop campaigning any time soon, he hopes where he started his freshman year of high people will remember him for electing the school — politics were still on his mind. right people into office and running hard “Freshman year they announced school hitting campaigns. elections and I thought ‘Nobody knows me “If I could, when it’s all said and done, say here,’” Johnson recalled. “It was a clean slate that I helped elect even one quality good so I decided to run for president.” hearted person to office,” he said. “I’d be He won and stayed involved in his high happy.”

January 23, 2013 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

Views of the News

SFGN Donates to Stonewall Library By SFGN Staff

orm Kent, center, SFGN publisher, recently donated more than 100 books and videotapes to the Stonewall National Museum, accepted by the Honorable Robert Lee (right), Broward County Court Judge, and Stonewall’s Chief Librarian, along with Tom Tabor (left), Chair of the Stonewall Board of Directors. “The books and tapes come to us routinely for reviews, and they include author’s notes as well. We are glad the SFGN Community Foundation can turn them over to such a good cause that will leave a legacy for posterity,” Kent said. To learn more about how you can donate and contribute to the Stonewall Library, which is also featuring a new exhibit this week, go to http:// stonewallnationalmuseum.org

January 23 2013 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

Views of the News

Gay Chamber Welcomes Richard Gray By SFGN Staff

Photo courtesey of steven shires

ecently the Greater Fort Lauderdale Gay & Lesbian Chamber of Commerce – GFLGLCC hosted its largest event to date. More than 150 people showed up to Chill Wine Lounge to celebrate the Greater Fort Lauderdale Convention & Visitors Bureau’s decision to create the first LGBT-specific Managing Director position. Richard Gray, founder of the original Royal Palms, was appointed to fill that position. “We look forward to partnering with Richard the CVB for many more years,” said Keith Blackburn, President of the GFLGLCC and Rainbow Hospitality Alliance. “We’ve already seen increased interest in LGBT tourism to Greater Fort Lauderdale as a result.”

Colleen Fitzgibbons and long time LGBT community volunteer of Pride South Florida Roger Handevidt

Anthony Verrico of HotSpots (left) and Kip Reynolds (right) attend the Rolling out of the red carpet for CVB ‘s Richard Gray presented by the GFLGLCC.

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January 23, 2013 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

VIEWS OF THE NEWS

World Outgames Committee Visits Miami The international sporting event may come to South Florida in 2017 Photo By JR Davis

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January 23 2013 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

SFGNITES

F O R

T H E

W E E K

O F

J A N U A R Y

2 4 - 3 0 ,

2 0 1 2

W W W . S F G N . C O M

By J.W. Arnold ENTERTAINMENT

1/24

Photo by Joan Marcus

THUR

ne of the treasures of old Fort Lauderdale is the Bonnet House, located on the beach, just south of Sunrise Boulevard. The historic mansion, built by artist Frederic Clay Bartlett and his second wife, Helen Louise Birch, is set on 35 lush acres and provides the perfect setting for concerts. Tonight, the Bonnet House Young Artist Series features the Lynn Chamber Trio, a group of talented musicians from Lynn University. Enjoy the performance on the veranda from 7 to 9 p.m. and enjoy complimentary wine, dessert and coffee. Tickets are $35 to $40 at BonnetHouse.org. The South Florida Fair is back and continues everyday through Feb. 3 at the West Palm Beach fair grounds. Bring the whole family out for rides, animals, and some good old-fashioned funnel cakes. Tickets are $15 at the gate. Visit SouthFloridaFair.com for more information.

THEATER

1/25

Photo by Scott Suchman

FRI

Jeanna de Waal as Glinda and Christine Dwyer as Elphaba

onty Python’s Spamalot, the Tony-winning Broadway musical “lovingly ripped off” from the film classic Monty Python and the Holy Grail returns to Fort Lauderdale’s Broward Center tonight and Saturday for a short run. Sing along with King Arthur and his Knights of the Round Table as they embark on their hilarious quest for the Holy Grail. Remember, “Look on the Bright Side of Life,” “The Songs That Goes Like This” and “How to Succeed on Broadway,” and you’ll be howling at the Lady of the Lake — in her full Cher getup — and her Laker Girls, too. Tickets are $39 to $109 at BrowardCenter.org

SAT THEATER

The Cast of Spamalot

1/26 SUN

he Magic Flute, Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart’s operatic masterpiece, opens tonight at the Arsht Center in Miami courtesy of Florida Grand Opera. Some of the genre’s most beloved characters take the stage to play out the timeless drama of good versus evil. Jeanette Vecchione makes her FGO debut as the vengeful Queen of the Night with Jonathan G. Michie starring as Papageno. A lot has changed since the opera premiered in 1791, but Mozart’s memorable melodies still charm audiences. Tickets are $25 to $254 at FGO.org or ArshtCenter.org. The production moves to the Broward Center, Feb. 21 and 23.

MUSIC

1/27 MON

hanticleer, the Grammy Award-winning male a cappella ensemble, performs in concert tonight at 7 p.m. at the First Presbyterian Church of Fort Lauderdale, 401 SE 15th Ave. The 12 professional singers have become known around the world as “an orchestra of voices” for the seamless blend from tenor to bass and original interpretations of the vocal repertoire. They sing everything from Renaissance madrigals to jazz and gospel. Tickets are $20 for adults and $10 for students and may be reserved by calling the church at 954-462-6200 or at the door on the night of the performance.

January 23, 2013 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

MUSEUM

WED THEATER

t’s back! Wicked, the box office smash that tells the story of Oz before Dorothy dropped in, returns to the Broward Center for another extended run. Relive the early friendship between Elphaba and Glinda, long before they were forced to become the Wicked Witch of the West and Glinda the Good Witch of the North. We know the audience will be packed with screaming ‘tweens, so this might be a good night to check out the Broward Center’s swanky new Club Level. Swig down that cosmo as you sing about defying gravity. Tickets start at $34.50 at BrowardCenter. org.

1/28 TUE

t’s not too late to head over to the Museum of Art Fort Lauderdale, 1 E. Las Olas, for “Warhol and Cars,” a fascinating exhibition that chronicles the famous pop artist’s fascination with the automobiles of his time. There may be a big difference between a Chevy and a can of Campbell’s soup, but for Warhol, both were products of American consumer society. The exhibit includes prints, photographs and other archival material spanning Warhol’s career. The museum is open daily, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. with extended hours on Thursdays until 7 p.m. On Sundays, the museum opens at 12 noon. Admission is $10. The Warhol exhibit is scheduled to close Feb. 10.

1/30

THEATER

1/29

t a Jolly Holiday with Mary”—Mary Poppins, that is. The musical adaptation of the popular Disney film starring Julie Andrews and Dick Van Dyke rolls in to the Kravis Center in West Palm Beach through Feb. 3. Don’t expect dancing penguins, but the artists at Disney have just about everything else figured out—sending chimney sweep Burt dancing upside down above the stage and Mary Poppins floating above the London skyline. It’s also a more adult story, exploring women’s rights and the frustrations of middle age. But that’s okay because we’ll all still learn to spell the longest word in the English language! Tickets start at $25 at Kravis.org.

A&E

Drowsy Chaperone An Odd Show that Will Keep You Laughing By Jason Parsley

Continuing Arts Education

Lunch & Learn Chairs: Lee Wolf and Steven Caras

Authors AlAn shAyne & normAn sunshine on Double life: A love Story from broADwAy to HollywooD Interviewed by Lee Wolf

Monday, February 11 at 11:30 am Cohen Pavilion • Tickets $75

Mr. Shayne, a retired president of Warner Brothers Television, where he shepherded such hit shows as Alice and The Dukes of Hazard and Mr. Sunshine, an internationally renowned artist, illustrator and sculptor, tell their own power couple story of how gay relationships have slowly become more accepted in the last half century. They’ll share intimate, inside stories from film, television and print about stars from a young Marlon Brando, to an emotional Liza Minnelli, to a generous Rock Hudson.

in it was just fantastic. I cannot believe how talented the actors are, and they don’t even get paid. They just do this because they like to do it. The bride [Janet] was definitely a stand out. She was phenomenal, was extremely talented, and did many things on stage besides singing.”

If You Go Where: Lake Worth Playhouse, 713 Lake Ave, Lake Worth When: Through Feb. 3 How Much: $26 and $30 For More Info: 561-586-6410 www.LakeWorthPlayhouse. org photos courtesy of lake worth playhouse

Tw 0+ Ye o Gentlem ar Lo e ve St n. ory!

One 5

he Drowsy Chaperone isn’t your typical musical, it’s an actually a musical within a comedy. Not sure what that means? Neither did I. Simply put the show follows the story of a middle-aged musical theater fan, who’s explaining his favorite musical the Drowsy Chaperone, while playing it on a record. The narrative of the show is known only as the Man in the Chair and is played by Lake Worth Playhouse regular Tom Cooch (Music Man, Little Shop of Horrors). While the actual musical numbers are solid, fun, and certainly enjoyable, few of them are memorable. It’s Cooch that carries the show with his one-liners and comedic routine. He keeps the audience laughing and engaged as he brings them in and out of the fantasy musical taking place in his apartment. Adding to the hilarity of the show are two gangsters, within the musical, both of which are disguised as pastry chefs, an alcoholic chaperone, a self proclaimed Latin lover and a wedding that’s on-again/off-again. “I saw the show a couple of years ago at Kravis Center and I did not like it. I did like it this production though because I think that the show is more geared to a more intimate audience,” said Jeff Wolmetz. “Everybody

Copies of Double Life will be available for purchase at the conclusion of the lecture. Admission includes lunch prepared by Catering by The Breakers at the Kravis Center. A Kravis Center Cultural Society Event

Sponsored by Leona F. Chanin

To order tickets, visit kravis.org or call 561-832-7469 or 1-800-572-8471 Groups: 561-651-4304 or 561-651-4438 On the go? Access kravis.org from your mobile phone. Yours. Truly.

Raymond F. Kravis Center for the Performing Arts • 701 Okeechobee Boulevard • West Palm Beach, FL 33401

Shenise Nunez plays Janet Van De Graaff in the Lake Worth Playhouse’s production of the Drowsy Chaperone. Nunez’s past credits include Shelly in “Hairspray,” Chiffon in “Little Shop of Horrors” and Lipshitz in “Chicago.” Her current role of Janet though is her first lead role at LWP.

January 23 2013 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

A&E

Margaret Cho’s On Her Way Mother’s Day comes early for South Florida By Ryan Dixon

her mother and LGBT issues and humor. Cho has been married to Al Ridenour since 2003. Their “unconventional” relationship (with her being gay and acting on her desires openly) has allowed Cho to be a mother herself, but in a different way. “It is so weird, my life, because I’m like a mother to people,” Cho said. “I see kids and people rejected and thrown out by their families; I’ve come to parent them, to be like a mother to them.” Cho believes it is really important for adults to develop parenting qualities. “Gay kids get kicked out and I end up parenting by default,” she said. “If we could tackle this problem, I think things could be a whole hell of a lot better.” MOTHER continues Cho’s long string off success in comedy on screen and stage. In 1994, Cho won the American Comedy Award for Best Female Comedian. Her most recent role was playing paralegal assistant Teri Lee on Lifetime Network’s Drop Dead Diva. The show was recently canceled by the network. When asked about it, Cho replied that it “is but it isn’t.” “There are other things in play that we (the cast) don’t know about,” she said. “The entertainment media is often skewed or wrong. Entertainment is constantly changing so there’s no way to really tell what’s going on.” Showtime on Sunday is 8 p.m. Tickets are available online at Kravis.org. Photo courtesey of Austin Young

argaret Cho is hitting the road again, and South Florida is in her sights. The comedian makes a triumphant return to the area on Jan. 27 at the Kravis Center in West Palm Beach. Cho, who was just nominated for a Grammy Award for Best Comedy Album, is set to bring her signature wit and home grown comedy in her new stand up show, MOTHER. This her second trip to the area in the last year. She last performed at the Parker Playhouse in a fundraiser for Broward House on World AIDS Day in 2011. Cho said she’s excited to return. “I’m coming back with a whole bunch of new material,” Cho said. “This community is special and we’re going to have an exciting time.” MOTHER is probably Cho’s edgiest show to date, filled with observations on race, drugs and sexuality. Whether you’re gay, straight or anything in between, Cho’s take on celebrities, culture and politics leaves nothing sacred untouched. Cho said that this show would revolve around a long-suffering and staple in her show, her mother. “I’ve been talking about her for a long time now,” Cho said. “I’ve come to the realization now that I’m older and it’s time to give her a show.” Cho’s shows tend to be very liberal and political in content, with Cho focusing on

Margaret Cho performs Jan. 27 at the Kravis Center in West Palm.

January 23, 2013 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

A&E

“Live theatre to die for”

Gay Adoption, Big Screen New film illuminates couple’s struggle to adopt in late ‘70s California By J.W. Arnold

Zev Buffman

returns with the Premiere of a new thriller

Starring

Gary Sandy Amy Walker Phil Proctor

as Detective Poirot

Melinda Peterson

as Agatha Christie

Original Songs by Rupert Holmes Adapted by

Judith Walcutt & David Ossman

NOW - FEBRUARY 3

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Riverside Hotel 75 Years of Tradition

he LGBT community has made great strides towards equality in recent years. From the ballot box victories last November, the recognition of same-sex marriage by the New York state legislature in 2011, and even the overturning of a ban on gay adoptions here in Florida in 2010, change is coming swiftly. But, it wasn’t that long ago that the mere suspicion of being gay or lesbian could justify being fired or evicted — even in progressive bastions of liberal thought like Los Angeles or New York. Sadly, in many states this is still the law. The long fight for equal rights is the subject of writer/producer/director Travis Fine’s film, Any Day Now, the story of a gay couple living in West Hollywood, circa 1979, who petition the courts to adopt an abused Down syndrome child, Marco (Isaac Leyva). The couple, drag performer Rudy (Alan Cumming) and closeted assistant district attorney Paul (Garret Dillahunt), barely consummated their new relationship when they take in the boy, who was abandoned by his drug-addicted mother after she was arrested and sentenced for prostitution. Together, they are forced to tackle a legal system that seems stacked against them, despite the fact the couple are the only ones who demonstrate any true concern for the child. They persuade the mother to grant temporary custody during her incarceration, but when Paul’s boss puts two and two together, he fires the young D.A. and helps the state remove Marco to an institution. The couple enlists a tough, jive-talking African-American attorney (Don Franklin) to handle their appeal leading to the most truthful exchange in the film after their defeat: “There is no justice, is there?” sighs Paul, eliciting this response from his attorney, “You went to law school… I’m surprised that’s not the first thing they taught you. But that don’t mean we stop fighting for what’s right.” Any Day Now follows every gimmick in the Lifetime movie playbook — it’s a touching emotional rollercoaster that will have audiences smiling then crying — and earning the film audience awards at 10 regional film festivals. The film was one of

the audience favorites of the Fort Lauderdale International Film Festival last November. Despite a shoestring budget, Fine constructs a film that is incredibly authentic on the screen. He keeps his shots tight and gritty and attention to almost every detail is apparent from costumes to set decorating. Dillahunt (Raising Hope) and Leyva are both charming in their respective roles, but it’s Cumming’s abrasive, passionate Rudy who drives the movie, delivering not only a strong acting performance but also brassy vocals, especially a jazzy, balladic Come to Me. Unfortunately, he’s never convincing as a professional drag performer and, while I hate to quibble, any working “girl” would

A still from new fil ‘Any Other Day’

have to agree. (Even in 1979, the queens shaved their armpits and forearms. I’m not even going to comment on the makeup.) It’s important to note, there are several members of the production team with South Florida connections: Co-writer George Arthur Bloom resides in Palm Beach County and executive producers Wayne LaRue Smith and Dan Skahen live in Key West. Smith and Skahen challenged Florida’s ban on gay adoption in the courts, but have fostered many youth and are now the parents of two adopted teens. Co-producer Steven Kozlowski, a Miami attorney who handles LGBT issues, has also challenged Florida’s ban. Check local listings for showtimes. For more information, go to AnyDayNowMovie. com.Any Day Now Opening Jan. 25 Find it at: Regal South Beach 18, Miami Beach; The Classic Gateway Theatre, Fort Lauderdale; Regal Delray Beach 18, Delray Beach; Lake Worth Playhouse, Lake Worth; M’os Art, Lake Park.

January 23 2013 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

January 23, 2013 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

*The Ultimate Elvis Show

By Brian Swinford

Have an event you want to list? If so send me an email at Calendar@sfgn.com.

*denotes new listing

Theater Broward County *The BBC Murders

Agatha Christie’s Classic Mystery Series The BBC Murders continuing through Sunday, Feb. 3. Four Agatha Christie classics, Three Blind Mice, Yellow Iris, Butter in a Lordly Dish and Personal Call have been adapted for the stage by Judith Walcutt and David Ossman from lost BBC radio scripts. Tickets range in price from $26.50 to $66.50. Showtimes vary. Visit ParkerPlayhouse.com

The Broward Center presents Blue Suede Shoes - Love Me Tender: The Ultimate Elvis Show featuring Scot Bruce and Mike Albert Sunday, Feb. 17 at 7 p.m. Bruce who pays tribute to a young Elvis, is joined by Albert, who is acclaimed around the globe as “the world’s finest Elvis impressionist” for his performances with the Big “E” Band. Tickets are $27.50 and $37.50 Visit ParkerPlayhouse.com

*Alan Parsons Live Project

Gold Coast Jazz Society presents a performance from Canadian pianist Michael Kaeshammer in Going to the Mardi Gras on Friday, Feb. 8 at 7:45 p.m. Tickets are $40. Visit ParkerPlayhouse.com

Alan Parsons Live Project on Monday, Feb. 18 at 7 p.m. as part of Parson’s Greatest Hits Tour 2013. The British rock pioneer began his musical career as a sound engineer working with The Beatles, Al Stewart, Cockney Rebel and Pilo, but solidified his reputation through his work on Pink Floyd’s iconic album Dark Side of the Moon.. Tickets are $45.50 and $65.50. Visit ParkerPlayhouse.com

*New Shanghai Circus

*Looped

*Michael Kaeshammer

New Shanghai Circus will be presented as a Smart Stage Matinee on Friday, Feb.15 at 10 a.m. The Circus features acrobats, jugglers and contortionists who defy gravity. Tickets are $6 for individual seats, $5.50 for groups of 10 or more and $3 for lap seats for infants 12 months and under. Visit ParkerPlayhouse.com

Valerie Harper returns to Fort Lauderdale in the National Tour of Matthew Lombardo’s madcap comedy Looped from Tuesday, Feb. 26 – Sunday, March 3. Based on a true story, Looped takes place in the summer of 1965, when an inebriated Tallulah Bankhead (Harper) stumbled into a sound studio to re-record (or “loop”) one line of dialogue for her last movie Die, Die, My Darling. Showtimes are Tuesday, February 26 – Friday, March 1 at 8 p.m.; Saturday, March 2 at 2 and 8 p.m.; and Sunday, March 3 at 1 and 7 p.m. Ticket prices are $28, $46.50 and $66.50. Visit ParkerPlayhouse.com

*Wicked

Wicked from Wednesday, Jan. 30 through Sunday, Feb. 17 in the Au-Rene Theater. Long before Dorothy drops in, two other girls meet in the land of Oz. One, born with emerald green skin, is smart, fiery and misunderstood. The other is beautiful, ambitious and very popular. How these two grow to become the Wicked Witch of the West and Glinda the Good makes for “the most complete - and completely satisfying - new musical in a long time” (USA Today). Showtimes Vary. Tickets range in price from $34.50 to $154.50, with Club Level seats available for139.50. Visit BrowardCenter.org

*No Bullies Allowed!

Presented as Smart Stage Matinees, No Bullies Allowed! comes to the Amaturo Theater on Friday, February 1 at 10 and 11:30 a.m. Incorporating anti-bullying lessons and solutionoriented messages into famous fairy tales, the story takes place at Enchanted Elementary where the Big Bad Wolf bullies the Three Pigs, Little Red, Jack, Cinderella and Ugly Duckling. Tickets are $6 for individual seats, $5.50 for groups of 10 or more and $3 lap seats are available for infants 12 months and under. Visit BrowardCenter.org

*Barbershop Harmony Salutes Disney

The Sunrise, Fla. chapter of the Barbershop Harmony Society presents Barbershop Harmony Salutes Disney on Saturday, Feb. 2 at 2 and 7 p.m. Favorite songs from Disney’s most beloved films of all time will be performed in the all-American style of a cappella singing. The concert will include songs from such movies as The Lion King, Mary Poppins, Dumbo, Beauty and the Beast and more. Tickets are $15. Visit BrowardCenter.org

*Sunday Jazz Brunch

The SunTrust Sunday Jazz Brunch takes place Sunday, Feb. 3 from 10:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. The SunTrust Sunday Jazz Brunch offers free music from Riverside Dixieland Band on the Peck Courtyard stage at the Broward Center for the Performing Arts, Christina Sichta on the Esplanade Stage and Pieces of Work in the Connie Hoffman Gazebo. Visit BrowardCenter.org

*Just Imagine

Just Imagine starring Tim Piper as John Lennon effortlessly transports the audience to an imaginary world where John Lennon comes alive once again on Sunday, Feb. 10 at 3 and 7 p.m. in the Amaturo Theater. Offering insights into Lennon’s past, philosophies, dreams, regrets and inspirations, the Los Angeles theatrical hit features many of the best-loved hits by the famous Beatle. Tickets are $45 and $35. Visit BrowardCenter.org

*Songwriter’s Showcase

Chrystal Hartigan presents Songwriter’s Showcase on Monday, Feb. 11 at 8 p.m. in the intimate setting of the Abdo New River Room. Return to the days of 1960s Greenwich Village coffeehouses as musicians from around the world perform while an open mic segment lets hopefuls try out material in front of a welcoming audience. Admission is $10 at the door and a cash bar is available. Visit BrowardCenter. org

*Melanie

Singer-songwriter Melanie will perform in the Amaturo Theater on Thursday, Feb. 21 at 8 p.m. With guitar in hand and a talent that combines amazing vocal equipment, disarming humor and a vibrant engagement with life, she has created hits including “Beautiful People,” Brand New Key,” “Ruby Tuesday,” “What Have They Done To My Song Ma” and “Lay Down (Candles In The Rain).” Tickets are $25 and $35. Visit BrowardCenter.org

*I Love You, You’re Perfect, Now Change

I Love You, You’re Perfect, Now Change comes to the Amaturo Theater Wednesday, Feb. 13 through Saturday, Feb.16 as a presentation of the Broward Center 2012-13 Off Broadway Series. This long-running off Broadway musical hit features a collection of scenes and songs scaling the full spectrum of male/female relationships, including lampoons of first dates, pre-marital jitters, post-marital complaints, divorces and all the trials and tribulations of dealing with the opposite sex. Showtime’s are Wednesday, February 13 through Friday, February 15 at 7:30 p.m. and Saturday, February 16 at 3 and 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $35. Visit BrowardCenter.org

*Tony Bennett

Music icon Tony Bennett returns to South Florida with a concert in the Au-Rene Theater on Wednesday, Feb. 27 at 8 p.m. A living legend and winner of 17 Grammy Awards, Bennett introduced a multitude of songs into the Great American Songbook that have since become pop music standards. His hits include the Grammy-winning “I Left My Heart in San Francisco,” as well as Top 40 hits “I Wanna Be Around,” “The Good Life” and “Who Can I Turn To (When Nobody Needs Me).” Tickets are $51, $76, $101, $126 and $151, with Club Level seats available for $161. Visit BrowardCenter.org

*Harriet Tubman and the Underground Railroad Harriet Tubman and the Underground Railroad is a tribute to the great American who freed herself and hundreds of her people from the bonds of slavery. This musical drama will be presented as a part of the Smart Stage Matinee Series on Friday, Feb. 22 at 10 and 11:30 a.m. in the Amaturo Theater. Tickets are $6 for individual seats, $5.50 for groups of 10 or more and $3 lap seats are available for infants 12 months and under. Visit BrowardCenter.org

*The Magic Flute

The Florida Grand Opera presents Mozart’s operatic masterpiece The Magic Flute on Thursday, Feb. 21 at 7:30 p.m. and Saturday, Feb. 23 at 8 p.m. in the Au-Rene Theater. In this allegorical representation of the timeless struggle between good and evil, the handsome prince Tamino is charged by the Queen of the Night with the rescue of her daughter, the lovely Pamina, from the hands of Sarastro. As his quest alongside the bird catcher Papageno nears its end, Tamino begins to realize who the real villain is in this story. Tickets are $21, $46, $60, $79, $89, $125 and $200, with Club Level seats available for $149. Visit BrowardCenter.org

*Russian National Orchestra

The Russian National Orchestra will perform on Tuesday, Feb. 26 at 8 p.m. in the Au-Rene Theater. Vasily Petrenko leads the Orchestra in a program which features Barry Douglas on piano and includes: Rimsky-Korsakov’s “Capriccio Espagnol Op.34;” Tchaikovsky’s “Piano Concerto No. 1 No. 2 in B-flat minor, Op.23;” and Rachmaninoff’s “Symphonic Dances, Op.45.” Tickets are $35, $50, $65, $80 and $95, with Club Level seats available for $125. Visit BrowardCenter.org

Eating Alabama

The Southern Circuit Independent Film Series continues with Eating Alabama on Thursday, Feb. 21 at 7:30 p.m. A thoughtful and often funny look at community and sustainability, the documentary follows a young couple who set out to eat locally and seasonally, the way their grandparents did, yet they soon realize that nearly everything about the food system has changed. Following the screening, the film’s director and producer Andrew Grace and the audience will engage in a discussion about the film and his work as a filmmaker. Tickets are $15 with subscription packages available. Visit Miramarculturalcenter.org

Tosca

The Miramar Cultural Center and Teatro Lirica D’Europa presents Puccini’s Tosca on Tuesday, Feb. 26 at 7:30 p.m. as part of the Opera Series. This opera is a sizzling drama of love, death-defying loyalty and villainous deceit. Sponsored by Novus Realty, LLC, the performance features a live orchestra and is sung in Italian with English projected subtitles. Tickets are $40 and $45 with subscription packages available. Call 954-602-4500 or visit Miramarculturalcenter.org

Marriage of Figaro

The Opera Series at the Miramar Cultural Center | ArtsPark kicks off with Teatro Lirica D’Europa’s presentation of The Marriage of Figaro on Tuesday, Jan. 29 at 7:30 p.m. This witty yet profound tale of love, betrayal and forgiveness follows the mayhem that ensues as a wedding party tries to get to church on time. The performance features a live orchestra and is sung in Italian with English projected subtitles. Tickets are $40 and $45. Call 954-602-4500 or visit Miramarculturalcenter. org

January 23 2013 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

Pig Tale – An Urban Faerie Story

For anyone who’s ever found themselves staring at their partner – wondering what in the world happened to that hot, handsome man they first started dating – playwright Chris Weikel is happy to explain it in his own twisted bedtime story. Set in the wilds of New York’s East Village, Chris Weikel’s Pig Tale explores some of our worst dating fears. The ticket price is $30. Through February 2. Call 954-678-1496 or visit Islandcitystage.org, Empirestage.com or Smarttix.com or call Smarttix at 212-868-4444.

Ars Flores Symphony Orchestra

An innovative program of musical genres selected by audiences through surveys and Facebook suggestions during the past year. Selections range from Mozart, Vivaldi, Gershwin and tangos to original works performed by string quartets and rhythm sections with Spoken Word artists. At the Rose and Alfred Miniaci Theater on Jan. 26. Visit ArsFlores.com

Monty Python’s Spamalot

At the Au-Rene Theater at the Broward Center for the Performing Arts on Friday and Saturday, January 25 and 26 at 8 p.m. Lovingly ripped off from the classic film comedy, Monty Python and the Holy Grail, Spamalot tells the legendary tale of King Arthur and his Knights of the Round Table and features a bevy of beautiful showgirls, not to mention cows, killer rabbits and French people. Tickets start at $25, $39, $49, $59 and $65 with Club Level seats available for $109. Call 954-462-0222

Laffing Matterz

Laffing Matterz at the Broward Center continues in the Abdo New River Room Thursdays and Fridays at 7:30 p.m., Saturdays at 8:30 p.m. and selected Sundays throughout the season at 4:30 p.m. Taking on the latest scandal, social media, current events and everything in-between, Laffing Matterz at the Broward Center combines the best of dinner theater with the hilarity of topical satire. Admission is $59 and $65 and includes the show and a dinner with house salad, a choice of entrée and warm sourdough bread. Visit BrowardCenter.org

Palm Beach County A Raisin in the Sun

In this powerful, classic drama, a substantial insurance payment could have life-changing consequences for a poor black family living on Chicago’s South Side in the 1950s. This play is directed by Seret Scott and produced by Calla & Ralph Guild. At the Palm Beach Dramaworks on Feb 1- Mar 3. Visit Palmbeachdramaworks.org

*Sister Robert Anne’s Cabaret Class

The City of Aventura presents Sister Robert Anne’s Cabaret Class from Thursday, Feb. 7 through Sunday, Feb. 10. Christine Mild stars as Sister Robert Anne, a “one-nun” tour-de-force created by Dan Goggin as part of the “Nunsense” series of musical comedies. Performances are: Thursday, February 7 at 8 p.m.; Friday, February 8 at 8 p.m.; Saturday, February 9 at 2 and 8 p.m.; and Sunday, February 10 at 2 p.m. Tickets are $36.50. Visit AventuraCenter.org

*Ellis Island: Gateway to a Dream

The high-spirited musical journey Ellis Island: Gateway to a Dream will be presented as Smart Stage Matinees on Monday, Feb. 11 at 10 and 11:30 a.m. The show follows a group of immigrants whose experiences are typical of the many thousands who came to America in the early 1900’s. Celebrating the multi-cultural foundations of our nation, Ellis Island is about courage, hope and the challenges of the immigration experience. Tickets are $10 for individual seats and $3 for lap seats for infants 12 months and under. Visit AventuraCenter.org

*The Well Digger’s Daughter

The Aventura Foreign Film Series continues with The Well Digger’s Daughter on Tuesday, Feb. 12 at 7 p.m. In preWorld War II France, a father is torn between his sense of honor and his deep love for his saintly daughter when she gets in trouble with the wealthy son of a shopkeeper. This film is shown in French with English subtitles and there will be a post-screening discussion. Tickets are $10. Visit AventuraCenter.org

*Canciones de Broadway

The City of Aventura presents Canciones de Broadway with Carla Bordonada on Friday, Feb. 15 at 8 p.m. and Saturday, Feb. 16 at 8 p.m. Now, Puerto Rican born cabaret star Carla Bordonada performs “Somewhere,” “Don’t Cry for Me Argentina”, “Impossible Dream” and more. Tickets are $34.50. Visit AventuraCenter.org

*Stories of a Seared Childhood

The City of Aventura’s First Person Singular: Adventures in Solo Storytelling Series continues with Where There’s Smoke, There’s Dinner: Stories of a Seared Childhood Featuring Regi Carpenter on Thursday, Feb. 19 at 7 p.m. St. Lawrence River rat and award-winning storyteller Carpenter gleans stories from four generations of her eccentric family and her roots in Clayton, N.Y. that are equally original, poignant, heartbreaking and side-splitting. Tickets are $25. Visit AventuraCenter.org

Singing in the rain

This high-energy romantic comedy overflows with splashy song-and-dance numbers, including glorious songs such as “Good Morning,” “Make ‘Em Laugh” and the show-stopping title number, “Singin’ In the Rain.” The golden age of movie musicals comes alive as we follow silent movie actor Don Lockwood’s journey into the talkies of the late 1920s. At Maltz Jupiter Theatre through Jan. 27. Visit www.JupiterTheatre. org/

Miami-Dade *Growing up Grodin

The Aventura Comedy Series, presented by Low Brow Entertainment Comedy, continues with comedian Marion Grodin in Growing up Grodin on Saturday, Feb. 2 at 8 p.m. The daughter of comedy actor Charles Grodin gives audiences a behind the scenes look at how growing up around her eccentric and colorful family made her who she is today. Grodin has opened for Lewis Black and has appeared on The Conan O’Brien Show, The Joy Behar Show and The View. Tickets are $31.50 and $36.50. Visit AventuraCenter.org

*Sijing Ye in Prodigies & Masters of Tomorrow

The Miami International Piano Festival’s Aventura Cultural Series presents pianist Sijing Ye in Prodigies & Masters of Tomorrow on Sunday, Feb. 3 at 5 p.m. In this journey into Chopin & Liszt’s repertoire, Ye performs Chopin’s favorite mazurkas, waltzes, nocturnes, ballades, the great “Sonata No. 2,” as well as Liszt’s “Rhapsodie Espagnole.” Tickets are $30, with half price tickets available at the box office for students age 22 and under with valid I.D. Visit AventuraCenter.org

*No Bullies Allowed!

No Bullies Allowed! will be presented as Smart Stage Matinees on Monday, Feb. 4 at 10 and 11:30 a.m. Incorporating anti-bullying lessons and solution-oriented messages into famous fairy tales, the story takes place at Enchanted Elementary where the Big Bad Wolf bullies the Three Pigs, Little Red Riding Hood, Jack, Cinderella and Ugly Duckling. Individual tickets are $10 and $3 lap seats are available for infants 12 months and under. Visit AventuraCenter.org

January 23, 2013 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

Floral Designs for the Holidays

“Flower Designs for the Holidays”. Janice Hamlin, Master Flower Show Judge from the Manatee River Garden Club in Bradenton, Florida will inspire us by demonstrating the creation of flower designs for the holidays. Call 954-561-8475. Visit FLGardenClub@gmail.com

Have an event you want to list? If so send me an email at Calendar@sfgn.com.

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Broadway in Miami 2012-13 *Jazz Around the World

Zameru Investment presents Jazz Around the World on Friday, February 22 at 8:30 p.m. This musical journey through the world of jazz features swing, Latin jazz, tango jazz, bossa nova and blues evoking artists such as Nat King Cole, Frank Sinatra, Louis Armstrong, Cole Porter and Ella Fitzgerald. The concert incorporates jazz of various eras and countries, as well as jazz adaptations of other musical genres. Tickets are $35 with $50 V.I.P. tickets which include a post-show champagne toast with the company. Visit AventuraCenter.org

*Hal Linden

The City of Aventura presents a performance by Tony Awardwinner Hal Linden on Thursday, Feb. 28 at 8 p.m. Linden presents an entertaining combination of songs, ranging from classic pop to jazz standards, Broadway and feature film tunes, standards from the American and theatrical musings highlighting memorable moments from his life and career. Tickets are $36.50 and $41.50. Visit AventuraCenter.org

Story Pirates

Local students are the playwrights of the hilarious and interactive performance by Story Pirates on Saturday, Feb. 2 at 11 a.m. as the final show in the Family Theater Series. Every show is unique as teaching artists and performers also take suggestions from the audience to create stories on the spot. Tickets are $15 visit Miramarculturalcenter.org

Harlem Gospel Choir

Made up of the finest singers and musicians from various churches in Harlem, N.Y., the Harlem Gospel Choir will perform on Saturday, Feb. 9 at 8 p.m. as part of the Signature Series. The choir performs songs of inspiration that touch the depths of the soul and raises spirits to angelic heights. Tickets are $35, $40 and $45 with subscription packages available. Visit Miramarculturalcenter.org

This season Ziff Ballet Opera House through May 12 will hold the Broadway In Miami spectacle. Experience the return of the world’s greatest musical spectacle - Les Misérables - in its lavish new 25th anniversary production, along with the Miami premieres of Broadway’s biggest fun-filled hits - including the high-stepping Mary Poppins, the outlandishly colorful Priscilla, Queen of the Desert, the awesomely cool Rock of Ages, and - the 2010 Tony Award Winner for Best Musical - Memphis, a triumph of explosive dancing and powerhouse songs. Visit Arshtcenter.org

Community Calendar Broward County 2013 Anti-Bullying Summit

HRC South Florida is proud to announce its 2013 AntiBullying Summit being held at Sunrise Middle School in Fort Lauderdale. This Summit is in partnership with Broward County Public Schools and Sunrise Middle School. The goal of the Summit is to educate students, faculty, administrators, legislators and our local community about the dangers of bullying and identifying ways to prevent it in our community. This is a free, community event and takes place January 23 at 6:30 p.m.

Water, Sports and Travel Festival

The first-ever Water, Sports & Travel Festival, presented by leading water sports organizations will be held at the Greater Fort Lauderdale/Broward County Convention Center and several locations throughout Greater Fort Lauderdale from April 26-28. The Festival exhibition will feature four co-located shows including “The Board Show”, “The Dive Show”, “The Boating & Water Toys Show”, and “The Travel Show.” Visit Wstfest.com

LGBT Quit Smoking Groups - Free Nicotine Patches

Did you know that LGBT people are more likely to smoke than most any other population group in the United States? Being around other Smokers can make it more difficult for people in our communities to quit. But many of us are trying, and the Quit Smoking Now Program in Wilton Manors is here to show us how to quit and stay without smoking. Visit My.vcita.com/myquitcoach QuitsmokingWM. com or call 305-942-6378

The 6th Annual I Care I Cure…I Run 5K

The 6th Annual I Care I Cure…I Run 5K and Family Fun Day! is on Sunday, Feb. 10 at 7:30 a.m. at the BB&T Center (formerly BankAtlantic Center), 1 Panther Parkway, Sunrise, Florida. Register online at: www.icareicure.org, Adults $25 and Children $20. The I Care I Cure Childhood Cancer Foundation supports the development of, and raises public awareness about, cutting-edge research for targeted therapies for childhood cancer. Contact Sue Trilling at 800-807-8013

Island City-Wide Yard Sale

Annual Island city-wide yard sale. The Yard Sales are held at Hagen Park, 2020 Wilton Drive, on the second Saturday of the month through April 2013 from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. The City Yard Sales spaces will be available to purchase. February 9. Last year, the yard sales hosted from 60 to 90 vendors, so register early while there is still space. More info call the Leisure Services Department at 954-390-2115 or 954-390-2130.

The Four Noble Truths

We all have certain things that feel to us like true sources of happiness, but which in reality have caused us no end of suffering, time and time again. It is our mind of attachment that continues to deceive us, causing us to relate to these things in mistaken ways, and leading us straight into problems and misfortune. Learn how to break this cycle. $10/class or $30/ series includes vegetarian food after class, members free. Visit MeditationInFortLauderdale.org

Pozitive Attitudes Topic driven Peer lead support group for gay and bisexual men who are infected or affected by HIV/AIDS. Meets every Wednesday 7-9 p.m. at the Pride Center 204 N.Dixie Hwy Room 204. Refreshments, no charge, open meeting. PAHereandNow@aol.com www.PozitiveAttitudes.com

Queer Youth Friday Nights

LGBTQ and allied youth group for people13-21. This Is a drop in group anytime from 6 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. This youth group will be SunServe building on 1480 SW 9th Ave on the second floor. A Safe Space to be yourself! Queer Themed Movie showing at 7 p.m. on Friday nights. This group is a safe hangout to meet new friends, free Wi-Fi to bring your laptop or your iPad, plus board games that you can bring or play the ones that they provide at the group. Visit Sunserve.org/youth/index.htm

GLBX Business Advantage Referral Group

GLBX Business Advantage Referral Group will be held at the chamber offices on the 1st and 3rd Wednesday of the month from 8 to 9 a.m. The leads group is looking for additional members. If you are interested joining, please contact Ken Stollar at Kenneth.Stolar@sci-us.com to see if your category is open and to attend as a guest. Visit Ftlchamber.com/index. php?src=gendocs&ref=GLBX_home&category=GLBX

Queer Youth Nights

LGBTQ & allied youth 13-21 are welcome any time after 6 p.m. at the SunServe building on Wilton Drive for a great place to meet new friends, play board games and a Queer Themed Movie at 7 p.m. Email Afrosch@sunServe.org

Latinos Salud’s programs

Multiple programs and groups for bi/gay Latino guys. Latinos Salud’s SOMOS program is for guys 18 to 30. All proceeds will benefit Latinos Salud in our efforts to educate on HIV Prevention and testing. Every Thursday night at 7 p.m. join the Core Group, and help plan alternative activities. Also offers Popular Opinion Leader group for guys ages 25 to 44 and a Life Coaching program for guys ages 18 to 44. Come by Monday through Friday 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. for free one-on-one life coaching with certified CRCS coaches. Located at 2330 Wilton Drive. Call 954-533-8681 or visit Latinossalud.org

January 23 2013 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

Man2Man Discussion

Man2Man Discussion Group meets at the Pride Center on Mondays from 7 until 8:30 p.m. Any subject may be discussed. Members regularly reassemble afterwards for ‘repast’ at The Courtyard, PeterPan Diner. Visit Glccsf.org

Meditation After Work

On Mondays from 6-6:30 p.m. there will be Guided meditation w/ western Buddhist teacher Gui Passow. Looking for a way to rest and re-charge before starting your evening? Come in for a free guided meditation to clear your mind at the end of the day. This class is free at Drolma Buddhist Center. Call 954-537-9191 or visit meditationinfortlauderdale.org

Buddhist Meditation Classes

All the happiness there is in the world arises from wishing others to be happy. By abandoning self-centered thoughts and replacing them with the belief that others are important, we will overcome our suffering and find true happiness inside our own hearts. $10/class or $30/series includes vegetarian food after class. Call The Drolma Buddhist Center at 954-537-9191.

Dream Car Classic

Every Sunday of the month from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Pre-1980s classic cars, modern classics and custom cars from 1981-2012 will be showcased. $10 car registration from 8 a.m. to 10 a.m. (Show Car Entrance: 20th Avenue & Tyler Street). People’s Choice Award - 2 Classes; Top Ten Vehicles Award. Call 954214-2457

Living Healthy

Fusion in Wilton Manors will be having a free workshop on healthy choices, and healthy living on Tuesdays from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. This workshop provides interactive learning, practice and mastery techniques for a healthier and more active life, and positive changes for quality of life. Call 954-630-1655

Life Coaching

Latinos Salud’s Life Coaching program is for Latino gay/bi guys ages 18-44. Come by Monday through Friday 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. for free one-on-one life coaching with certified CRCS coaches. Set your goals, and meet action steps to make them come true. 2330 Wilton Drive. Call 954-765-6239. Visit Latinossalud. org

Sex & Love Anonymous

S.L.A.A. believes that sex and love addiction is a progressive illness which cannot be cured but which, like many illnesses, can be arrested. It may take several forms -- including, but not limited to, a compulsive need for sex, extreme dependency on one or many people, or a chronic pre-occupation with romance, intrigue, or fantasy. Meets at The Pride Center at Equality Park in Bldg A, Room 200 Fridays 7 p.m. to 8 p.m. Visit Slaafws.org

Survivor Support

A Survivor Support Group is being held on the first and third Wednesday of each month at the 211 Community Center, 250 NE 33rd Street, in Oakland Park. The Florida Initiative for Suicide Prevention (FISP) is sponsoring this free support group and is open to all family members and friends of those who have died by suicide. Call 954-384-0344 to register. Meets from 7-8:30 p.m. Visit Fisponline.org.

Eating Disorder Support

Meets Friday evenings from 6 p.m. - 7:30 p.m. At Sun Serve’s Wilton Manors location at 2123 Wilton Drive, second floor. A “drop-in” psycho-educational support group. Free. No registration required. Donations welcome. Call 954-764-5150

Sunday Jazz Brunch

First Sunday of every month. An ideal way to relax and enjoy Fort Lauderdale’s scenic Riverwalk. Live, outdoor concert series bringing the area’s best local jazz artists. Listen to the soulful sounds on four different stages. Well-behaved, leashed pets welcome. Plenty of room for chairs, blankets and picnic baskets.

Young Adult GLBT

A social group open to all LGBT people ages 18-35. Meets Fridays at the Pride Center in Wilton Manors from 7:15-9 p.m. Meeting starts with a discussion on current events followed by introductions and then a group activity. Visit PrideCenterFlorida.org/contact-us

Boardwalk Friday Fest

Come out to Hollywood Beach Theatre East of A1A at Johnson St and the ocean. Admission: Free every Friday of every month. Live jazz, blues, pop and everything in between along Hollywood’s signature 2.5 mile boardwalk. Charming oceanfront cafes and restaurants serve up delicious innovative cuisine while you enjoy the best array of live music and tropical ocean breezes. Visit Hollywoodfl.org or call 954924-2980

Toastmasters

Most Toastmasters meetings are comprised of about 20 people who meet weekly for an hour or so. Participants practice and learn skills by filling a meeting role, ranging from giving a prepared speech or an impromptu one to serving as timer, evaluator or grammarian. Toastmasters meet at the GLCC/ Pride Center Monday at 7:15 p.m. Call Ted Verdone at 954-5662074 or email: Tedverdone@comcast.net

Tuesday Night Eatin Meeting

Tuesday Night Eatin’ Meeting will be held at The Alternative MC Clubhouse at 4322 NE 5th Ave in Oakland Park. Fun, food, and fellowship. There will be hamburgers, hotdogs, all the fixins, cold drinks, desserts, and snacks. Meeting begins at 8 p.m. and ends at 9 p.m. Visit Alternativemc.com/events/ florida-events

Gay Male Empowerment

Topic discussions include issues and concerns about being a gay man in South Florida. Meets Thursdays at the Pride Center from 7 - 8:30 p.m. Call 954-353-9155

PFLAG

Meets on the 2nd and 4th Tues. of the month at the Sunshine Cathedral at 1480 SW 9th Avenue to support the parents of LGBTQ youth in Broward. No charge. Visit Community.pflag. org/pflagfortlauderdale

New Alternatives

Social group with regular outings and social mixers for LGBTQ ages 18 to 30. This meeting will take place at The Gay & Lesbian Community Center of Palm Beach County. Email matthew@compassglcc.com or Visit Compassglcc.com.

Sober Sisters AA

Support group is dedicated for lesbians who are recovering from alcoholism. Meeting happens every Monday at 7 p.m. at Lambda North Clubhouse. Visit LambdaNorth.net

PBC Gender Support

All ages support group dedicated for transgender individuals. This meeting happens the 1st and 3rd Thursday of every month at 7:30 p.m. These meeting will take place at The Gay & Lesbian Community Center of Palm Beach County. Visit Compassglcc.com

Good Orderly AA

These meetings now take place at Lambda North at 18 S. J Street, and geared toward recovering alcoholics. Every Tues. and Thurs. at 7 p.m. and on Sat. at 5:30 p.m. These meetings will help recovering alcoholics cope with the stress of everyday life without the use of alcohol. Email tcamie@aol. com

Seniors vs. Crime

Seniors vs. Crime is a free service that provides help to seniors who have been victimized by businesses or service providers and need assistance. This event will take place at Mae Volen Senior Center at 1515 W. Palmetto Park Road. By appointment only so call 561-736-3820 or 561-395-8920.

Yoga On The Waterfront

Lake Pavilion at 101 S. Flagler Drive, West Palm Beach, FL / Yoga On The Waterfront in downtown West Palm Beach on Wednesday Evenings at 5:45 p.m. Residents $40 per 8 week session, Non-Residents $50 per 8 week session, Drop-ins $10 per class. To register, please call 561-804-4902.

YOGA Among the Orchids

It’s time for Yoga Among the Orchids at the American Orchid Society, 16700 AOS Lane, Delray Beach. Relax and replenish the flower inside with an hour of breathing exercises, toning, and yoga poses under a canopy of lush orchids. Classes are Wed. at 9 a.m. Cost is $20 and RSVP is suggested. Call 561-4042011. Visit OrchidWeb.org

SunServe Therapy Groups

Provided for the LGBT community at SunServe on a regular basis. Call the Intake Coordinator at 954-764-5150 to learn which therapy groups have openings. Groups Include a Gay Men’s HIV+ Long Time Survivors’ Group, a Safe “T” support group for gender variant adults, an Intimate Partner Abuse group and others. Visit SunServe.org

Fusion Wilton Manors - Connections

Gay men’s group discussion. Different subject every week. Dr. David Fawcett, a gay therapist, who has been in private practice in Fort Lauderdale for the last ten years, leads the event. No charge. Starts at 7 p.m. Call 954-630-1655.

Women4Women Support

A safe and loving place to explore all the concerns and topics raised by group members. This open drop-in meeting is held Wednesdays at 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at the New Sun Serve Building at 2312 Wilton Drive in Wilton Manors. Call 954-7645150

Man2Man Discussion

Man-2-Man talk is an informal discussion group of gay men, with all age ranges and backgrounds welcomed. Bldg A, Room 206. Visit Glccsf.org/calendar/

Palm Beach County “We Got Love!”

Hot ’n horny hookups.

Extend your Valentine celebration with 25 men who have been in, through, and over love, way too many times! Classic love songs, beautiful melodies, and just a touch of sarcasm! Post-concert reception featuring wine and sweet treats (and some savory treats, too!) This concert will be performed by the best chorus group around, The Gay Men’s Chorus of the Palm Beaches. This event will be on Feb. 17 from 4 p.m to 5:30 p.m. at the St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church in Lake Worth. Call 561- 582-6609 or email SAEpiscopal@aol.com

Coming Out Support Group

Coming Out Support Group for all ages, men and women. Meets every Thursday evening at Compass, GLCC of the Palm Beaches , 201 N. Dixie Highway, Lake Worth, Florida from 6:30 to 8 p.m. Call Forrest @561-479-8313

South Florida Fair

The South Florida Fair is back and better than 18-Feb 3 at the West Palm Beach fair grounds. Bring the whole family out for rides, animals, and some good old fashioned funnel cakes. Tickets are $15 at the gate and kid get in free that are under 5. Visit Southfloridafair.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=home.main

Lake Worth Bike Night

The Lake Worth bike night is fun, and it’s for a cause. Join loads of people in downtown Lake Worth every Thursday from 7 p.m.-10 p.m.. The event is free and open to bikers and nonbikers. Visit Lakeworthbikenight.com

Alternative Life Style Show Featured guests contribute to the community. All are welcomed to call in. Many give aways and prizes including a contest for free buffets at Isle Capri Casino in Pompano. You can also listen by adding W4CYRADIO to SKYPE or call in at 561-623-9429. Up coming spotlights on parties of interest and special events.

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PFLAG

PFLAG is a monthly support, coming out and rap groups for families of & for Gay, Lesbian, Bi, and Transgender people. Meeting in Palm Beach County is at 6:30 on the third Wednesday of the month. Call or email Carol at 561-716-9464 Pflag@pobox.com

January 23, 2013 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

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Have an event you want to list? If so send me an email at Calendar@sfgn.com.

Jazz on the Palm

Kart Racing Tour

BrothasSpeak

Ransom Mondays

Jazz on the Palm - Downtown West Palm Beach Waterfront - Gather with friends and family to enjoy the diverse vibrant sounds of jazz under the stars every 3rd Friday of month at the new Downtown West Palm Beach waterfront concert series. Free and open to the public. Guests are encouraged to bring blankets and chairs. From 8 p.m. to 10 p.m. Visit Wpbgo. com/2010/06/jazz-on-the-palm This group is a black gay men’s discussion group that is held at the Compass in West Palm Beach. Every Wednesday from 7 p.m. to 8 p.m. this group will be directed toward issues for and about black men. Visit Compassglcc.com

Paths

Paths is a social/discussion group held at Compass in Lake Worth. This men’s group takes place every Monday from 7:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. Paths men’s group will be discussing relationships, coming out, safer sex issues and more. Visit Compassglcc.com

Yoga

Yoga with Deborah will change your life. Bring a mat and get ready to stretch the stress away every Tuesday at The GLCC in Palm Beach from 6 to 7 p.m. This yoga experience will uplift and transform your life. $6 Entry Fee. You must bring your own mat. Visit Compassglcc.com

Living Buddhism

On the 2nd Tuesday of every month at 7 p.m. Compass in Lake Worth will be holding a discussion group for overcoming obstacles and obtaining happiness. This group is great for getting internal enlightenment. Release your inner stress, and become free. Visit Compassglcc.com

Miami-Dade *New Worship Service

Biscayne Unitarian will begin worship service on Sunday, Feb. 3, at 4 p.m., at the Pelican Harbor Marina Conference Center, 1275 NE 79th St, Miami. A social hour with refreshments will follow the service. Rev. Dr. Kenneth Claus, minister of All Souls Miami UU of South Miami, will lead this family-friendly service. Visit www.uua.org. Call: David Traupman, davidtraupman@ comcast.net, 305-758-3067

*15th annual Grantees on Parade

Citizens Interested in Arts (CIA) presents the 15th annual Grantees on Parade on Sunday, Feb. 17 at 1:30 p.m. The event is emceed by Broadway star David McBride with television, recording and cabaret artist Judy Scott as a featured guest. CIA Grants Committee members Dr. Dorothy Koreman, CIA Founder Gloria Muroff, Florence Werner and President Emeritus Lenore Toby-Simmons will award grants to 30 South Florida artistic organizations. Tickets are $50 and $75 with VIP seats available for $100. All tickets include admission to the pre-show brunch at 11:30 a.m. Visit AventuraCenter.org

*Winter Party Festival 2013

If “Dancing With the Stars” isn’t exactly your gig, volunteer your groove thing to be a go-go boy – or go-go girl – as visual entertainment for one of the signature dance events at this year’s 20th Edition Winter Party Festival, March 6 – 11, 2013. Dancers at Winter Party Festival are among the hundreds of volunteers who help make the six-day event a success. While there is no monetary compensation, free tickets to events are provided to those who volunteer their time. Costumes will be provided. Visit Winterparty.com.

4th Annual Pride Cruise

From Ocean Drive to the ocean waves, Miami Beach Gay Pride 2013 is setting sail once again with Source Events for the “Miami Beach Pride Cruise” immediately following all the Miami Beach Gay Pride festivities. The Pride Cruise takes place from Monday, April 15 to Friday, April 19. Visit SourceEvents.com

South Miami Rotary Art Festival

Held in the vibrant downtown area of South Miami on Sunset Drive between U.S. 1 and Red Road, the show offers a weekend of exhibition by 148 exhibitors of fine arts and crafts. Free admission for patrons and ample garage and street parking are available in this exciting area filled with historic buildings, trendy restaurants and unique shops. Come and support your local arts community on Feb. 23 at 10 a.m. and Sunday, Feb. 24, 6 p.m. Visit SouthMiamiArtsFest.org

*Denotes new listing

On Feb. 8-10, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. enjoy The Florida Winter Tour which is one of the world’s largest, and longest running kart racing programs. In 2012 the FWT featured over 400 drivers from 28 countries and all six karting continents, and for the 5th consecutive year was the world’s largest official Rotax Max Challenge series and event. General admission viewing is free. Pit passes are $10. Call 305-469-6188 Need an excuse to keep partying well after the weekend is over? The Monday-night party at the recently renovated Collins Park lounge. This amazing party will take place at Mokai in Miami Beach. The party, hosted by Mark Lehmkuhl, sort of takes now-defunct Bella Rose’s Black Sunday murder mystery theme but gives it a Patty Hearst twist. Every week, some prominent nightlife fixture gets held for ransom, and the only way it gets returned is if you party your ass off. Only $20 to attend. Visit Mokaimiami.com

Rainbow Circle

Rainbow Circle is a peer-led LGBTQ support & discussion group. Topics covered often include coming out, relationships, bullying, peer pressure, drugs & alcohol, depression and selfesteem. You pick and develop discussion topics and are able to express your thoughts and feelings without fear in a safe and supportive environment. This group will take place every Monday from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the University of Miami, Flipse Building #302. Visit Pridelines.org

Sex Talk

Sex Talk: Peer Health Educators are young LGBTQ adults who learn how to talk to other young adults about sex, sexuality and HIV/STD prevention. You’ll conduct outreach events, record video messages, participate in a series of performances and organize special events with a purpose. This event takes place the second and fourth Thursday every month at Pridelines Headquarters located at 9526 NE 2nd Ave #104 In Miami Shores from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Visit Pridelines.org

Lambda Dade Clubhouse

A meeting place for the Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual & Transgender communities and friends in recovery. Hosts Alcoholics Anonymous (AA), Al-Anon, Crystal Meth Anonymous (CMA), Debtors Anonymous (DA), Narcotics Anonymous (NA), and Sex & Love Addicts Anonymous (SLAA), meetings. (305) 5739608. 212 NE 24th Street. Miami. Visit Lambdadadeclubhouse. org

Key West 19th Annual Master Chef’s Classic

The 19th Annual Master Chefs Classic, held at the Westin Resort & Marina on Jan. 27 from 4 to 7 p.m. and is the premier culinary tasting and competition of the Lower Keys. This is a fundraiser for MARC (Monroe Association of ReMARCable Citizens). Attendees are treated to amazing culinary creations in appetizer, entree and dessert categories. Awards are given from a judging panel as well as the People’s Choice Award decided on by you, as one of the lucky attendees. This event has sold out in advance for the past three years, tickets will be available at: Keystix.com. Call 305-294-9526 ext. 25

The 48th Annual Old Island Days Art Festival

The Old Island Days Art Festival is a two-day juried outdoor fine art festival. That will take place on Feb. 23-24. The show, which is in its 48th year, is sponsored by the Key West Art Center, and was originally held to raise money for the renovation of the building at 301 Front Street. This show will be filled all sorts of beautiful art from a lot of locals in Key West. Visit KeyWestArtCenter.com/festival.html

nightlife Broward County 321-Slammer

Bathhouse. 321 W Sunrise Blvd, Fort Lauderdale, Florida, 33311. Slammer sex club the best place to cruise for the hottest gay men. Thursday’s is leather night, Friday and Saturday night live DJs. Monday & Tuesday -- $9 entry fee

January 23 2013 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

W S , N E

S T R A I G H T

F A C

CLASSIFIEDS 954.530.4970

TO PLACE AN AD CALL OUT CLASSIFIEDS DEPARTMENT OR VISIT SOUTHFLORIDAGAYNEWS.COM/GETLISTED

ACCOMMODATIONS 15th ANNIVERSARY JANUARY SPECIAL RATES From $99/Night & $595/Week. Beautiful Studio, 1 & 2 BR Apts. with Full Kitchens. Clothing optional heated pool, laundry, parking. Close to Gay Dania & Nude Haulover Beaches. Incl. Cable, Tel. & Wi-Fi Internet. Pets Always Welcome. Call (954) 927-0090 or visit www. LibertySuites.com

ATTORNIES

COMPUTERS

ELECTRICIAN

3 LGBT SFL DOMAINS FOR SALE GayFLL.com GayPBI.com and GayMIA.com. Perfect for anyone serving the LGBT market in SFL. Real estate, tourism, promotions, endless possibilities. Take all 3/$1500! Credit cards/paypal accepted. Contact dennis@ hamstercheese.com -------------------------------------------------------------COMPLETE COMPUTER REPAIR FREE ESTIMATES - no extra charge for in-home. FREE Computer tune-up with any service. Replacement of laptop screen & keyboard. Viruses, spyware, data recovery, lockouts & more. SAME DAY SERVICE - LOWEST PRICE GUARANTEE Call Ernesto: 754-234-5598 -----------------------------------------------------------------HATE WINDOWS 8?We can bring back the look and feel of windows. Same day service. Call 954-986-1316 www.gaycomputerwiz.com

COUNSELING/PSYCHOTHERAPY

HANDYMAN EXCELLENT HANDYMAN WORK Very experienced worker, roofing, trimming, drywall, remodeling, painting, landscaping, tile work, doors, electrician. For further information contact Shawn at 954-549-8243 ---------------------------------------------------------------THINGS YOU NEED TO ACCOMPLISH? Minds at ease, A+ handyman service. Prompt, Reliable & Honest. Call Keldon Keller 954-551-3127 krkeller@aol.com

INSURANCE SERVICES GAY FRIENDLY INSURANCE We represent 50 companies for all your auto, home, health, life and business needs. We offer affordable rates and free quotes. Available nights and weekends 24/7. dlanders@kirsteininsurance.com Diamond Landers 954-665-3375

EMPLOYMENT SIDELINES SPORTS BAR POSITIONS AVAILABLE Bartenders and bar backs. Now accepting applications and resumes. Mon-Fri from 3-6PM. No Phone calls please!

ENTERTAINMENT

LANDSCAPING IRRIGATION SYSTEM REPAIR AND MAINTENANCE 19 years experience, excellent work, referrals upon request. Call Roberto 954383-8980

CLEANING SERVICES HEAVENLY HOUSE CLEANER Upscale service that’s out of this world. Trustworthy & reliable. 10 years exp, references, not an agency, pet friendly, call Nina 954-601-6141 -------------------------------------------------------------CLEAN IT RIGHT The best cleaning for your buck. 1BD $50, 2BD $60, 3BD $70. Excellent rates & references. 10 years in business. Serving Broward, North Miami Dade & S. Palm Beach. Call Manny 954-560-4443 -------------------------------------------------------------NEED SERVICE? Here to help you with cleaning, shopping or errands. Honest, mature, meticulous service for you and your home. Call Dave 561512-6286. Serving gay men in Lake Worth & Palm Beach.

AIR CONDITIONING HONEST, RELIABLE AIR CONDITIONING & HEATING SERVICES Gay owned and operated company, Eiland Air, Inc. 24 hour service. Reasonable prices. Licensed & Insured #CAC1817222 Call Mike 786-247-6022

January 23, 2013 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

LANDSCAPING

LICENSED MASSAGE THE BRITISH POUND John Maroussas LMT Sports Massage, Deep Tissue, Neuromuscular, Trigger Point, Swedish, Salt or Sugar Scrubs. Private Studio w/ Shower. Wilton Manors Location near Bill’s Lic#MA51123 954-999-2240AFFORDABLE, --------------------------------------------------------------AWESOME MASSAGE BY JIM Offering Swedish, Deep Tissue, Sports and Lomi Lomi Massage; All in a very comfortable, relaxed and Private Massage Studio conveniently located on the SE corner of Oakland Park Blvd and Federal Highway. Nationally Certified & Licensed. Call Jim Libonati at 954-600-5843. info@ massagebyjim.com #MM22293 SPECIAL: First Time Client Rates ---------------------------------------------------------RECESSION RELIEF $40 per 90 MIN - Out calls higher. Swedish, Deep Tissue, Specialty Back, Lower Body & Feet. Couples Discounts. Seniors Welcome. Delray Beach. 16 years experience. MA18563 Dennis (561) 502-2628 --------------------------------------------------------------WILTON MANORS MASSAGE Swedish, Deep Tissue, Sports. $59 Swedish Hour. call or Text Chris Tunkus 954-258-8779 1322 NE 4th Avenue Fort Lauderdale, FL www. WiltonManorsMassage.com --------------------------------------------------------------NEW CLIENTS GET $10 OFF ANY SERVICE Located in a very nice, private & comfortable massage studio. Nice linens, music, oils, hot towels and more. SPECIALS: Swedish, Integrative or Sports Massage 60 Minures $60, 90 Minures $85, 105 Minures $95 www. schedulenow.info Call 954-816-7260 Keith Angel, LMT MA62951 MM27048

Dog Walking: $10.00 starting at Pet Sitting: $40.00 In House Pet Sitting: $45.00 Training: $10.00 starting per visit Pet Taxi (FTL Area): $20.00 Dependable • Reliable Service Delivered with Love and Respect

954-297-5336

PSYCHIC SERVICES CHRISTIAN PSYCHIC READER AND ADVISOR BY SHAWN Reunite you with loved ones or family. Will guide you for success. Tell past, present and destiny to come. For further information call Shawn at 954-549-8243

REAL ESTATE SERVICES

www.greendogpetservices.com

Lic# 11000106488

PROPERTY MANAGEMENT

PET SERVICES

LICENSED MASSAGE EXP. MATURE MALE WPB MASSEUR In-calls only, private studio setting by Belvedere/SR7 in quiet area. Highly skilled, intuitive theraputic bodywork by friendly LMT. Affordable rates but cash only. Early to late, 7 days. Call (561) 2548065 for appt. or walk-in OK. RELIEVE STRESS & TENSION WITH MAGICAL HANDS PRO MASSAGE (FL: MA51008) --------------------------------------------------------------MASSAGE IN WILTON MANORS Have a great Swedish, Deep Tissue, Reflexology or Sports Massage in a quiet private atmosphere. 1 hr $50 for any massage. Call Steve 954-565-1996 LIC# MA16988

RENT/LEASE • FORT LAUDERDALE MIDDLE RIVER TERRACE Walk to Wilton Drive, large 2BD/2BA, extra large kitchen w/ dishwasher, central a/c, LR, DR, tile floors, parking, dog friendly. $1,200/mo. + Security. Call 954-815-2550

January 23 2013 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

SALON

RENT/LEASE • FORT LAUDERDALE MIDDLE RIVER TERRACE 1/1 efficency $675/mo. Or $165/week, 6 mos or 1 year lease. Large 3BD house $1,250, carport, office, and all tile. Pay your first month’s rent with an approved application and you’re in. Water & electric included* Call for details. 954-527-9225 ---------------------------------------------------------------VICTORIA PARK - LARGE 1BD/1BA Completely renovated. Torazo floors, new kitchen apps, Walk-in closet, new paint, A/C, shared W/D. Quite 5 unit bldg in safe area. $800/Mo. Call 954-763-3222 --------------------------------------------------------HUGE 2/2 POOL DUPLEX - POMPANO BEACH Updated, Lushly Landscaped, East of Fed Hwy 1 Mile to Beach, D/R, Sep. Laundry W/D, Fab Lrg Pool, New Central AC, Tile Floors, Small Dog or Cat ok. $1390, Available 2/1/13 Call Tim: 754-235-2911 --------------------------------------------------------1BD APARTMENT UPSTAIRS 1142 NE 4th Avenue, Fort Lauderdale $700/Mo. Yearly Call 954-764-0212 or 954-581-2573 ---------------------------------------------------------------DUPLEX APT. CORAL RIDGE ISLES ( close to Holy Cross Hosp. and shopping ) Newly remodeled and landscaped 2B/2B ( each bedroom with adjoining bathroom) ideal for roommates. Spacious rooms with plenty of closet space, upgraded kitchen with micro, D/W. Your own laundry room with new W/D.Huge back yard and screened-in back porch. Small pet allowed $1250/month call 561-362-6104 or 954-2542499 --------------------------------------------------------------$700 DOWNTOWN / SAILBOAT BEND Quiet, small complex. 1BD/1BA. Large walk-in closet, brand new carpet. Living room, dining area, kitchen, FREE hot water, NEW A/C, LOW electric bills, assigned parking, “””MOVE-IN SPECIAL””” $700/MO. Call 954-566-6251 --------------------------------------------------------------2 ROOMS FOR RENT 1BD/1BA new carpet, kitchenette, $1,200/Mo. will reduce to $775 for experienced handyman. Also 1BD $700/Mo. will reduce to $400 for experienced handyman. No pets allowed. Preferably young and strong male. Contact John 954-549-8243 for more info.

SPIRITUALITY MIAMI –DADE NEW THOUGHT Spirituality group has counseling , coaching to help you get past what challenges you the most. Success in any area is possible. Call us and discuss your goals . Many of our activities are low or no cost. Inspirational gatherings every Sunday 11am, group work / classes in Broward- Dade. 1:1 counseling (phone or in person.) email us with your requests info@miamicsl.org or ask to receive our E- letter (bi weekly) packed full information to change your life. www.Miamicsl. org text or message or contact us at (305) 993 9018

RENT/LEASE • WILTON MANORS 1414 NE 5TH TER. LARGE 2BD/1BA Open gourmet kitchen w/ smooth top stove, D/W, crisp white cabinets, tile floors, central AC, private patio, onsite laundry, pets OK. $1,180/Mo. F/S. Owner/Licensee. Call 954-448-9811

RENT/LEASE • WEST PALM BEACH PB COUNTY-LAKE PARK 2/1 CONDO 2nd Floor Corner - Next to Kelsey Park across from Intracoastal Great Locations. $750 per month - 1 year Lease • No Pets • No Smoking • 1st & Security Call 561-310-0615

ROOMMATES MALE ROOMMATE WANTED Male roommate wanted for 2/1/13. Beautiful WPB 2BD/2BA apt to share $650/Mo. Water, Elect, Waste Mgt included. Deposit + 1st. mo. Required. Call 561-316-7236

January 23, 2013 • SouthFloridaGayNews.com

wicked is flying back to ft. lauderdale.

“Divas anD Romance anD ThRills: oh my!”

– Time ouT new yoRk

January 30 - February 17 broward Center For the PerForminG arts beGins wednesday browardcenter.org or 954-462-0222, Groups 15+ 954-626-7814 or 954-462-0222