Wire Magazine SP2.2019 Miami Beach Pride

SPECIAL ISSUE # 02 | 04.04.19 DISPLAY UNTIL 04.10.19

PRIDE INTERVIEWS: + JUDY & DENNIS SHEPARD ALLY GRAND MARSHALS + JUAN SANCHEZ ADVOCATE GRAND MARSHAL + ICONA POP PRIDE HEADLINER + AMANDA LEPORE URGE SPEKTRUM PRIDE EVENTS SCHEDULE: EVERYTHING YOU CAN DO DINING DELICIOUS: LINCOLN EATERY HEALTH & WELLNESS: JACKSON HEART SURGERY INSTITUTE

MIAMI BEACH PRIDE 2019

TABLE OF CONTENTS: 8. DINING DELICIOUS: LINCOLN EATERY

Diners have some delicious new dining options with the opening of this modern food hall.

12. COVER STORY: MIAMI BEACH PRIDE GRAND MARSHALS INTERVIEWS

16. COVER STORY: MIAMI BEACH PRIDE EVENTS

SCHEDULE

Wire Magazine brings you the most comprehensive schedule of all official and unofficial Miami Beach Pride events and parties.

20. COVER STORY: ICONA POP WILL HEADLINE

MIAMI BEACH PRIDE

Icona Pop, the Swedish electro-pop duo, sat down for a chat with us about headlining Pride.

22. HEALTH & WELLNESS: JACKSON HEART SURGERY INSTITUTE

Cardiothoracic surgeon Dr. Romualdo J. Segurola, Jr. brings his world-class expertise to Jackson.

26. OUT & ABOUT: URGE SPEKTRUM

LGBTQ icon Amanda Lepore is heading to Miami Beach Pride to host the Urge Spektrum Saturday night Pride event.

WIREMAG.COM: GOING OUT

Visit wiremag.com/goingout to plan your nightlife, dining, and cultural events outings!

PHOTO BY J.R. DAVIS

Read our interviews of Ally Grand Marshals Judy and Dennis Shepard, and Advocate Grand Marshal Juan Sรกnchez.

Publisher/Editor in Chief Rafa Carvajal Associate Publisher/Editor Michael Bustamante Design & Production True Ink Designs L.L.C. | trueinkdesigns.com Columnists Joey Amato Alfredo Barrios Alyn Darnay Anthony Reyes Michael W. Sasser Jesse Walker Official Photography Studio Photo Studio Miami Staff Photographer J.R. Davis Local Advertising advertising@wiremag.com

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Distributed in print in Miami, The Beaches, and Fort Lauderdale, and digitally worldwide through wiremag.com The views, opinions or positions expressed by contributors to and interview subjects of Wire Magazine are theirs alone and do not necessarily reflect the views, opinions or positions of Wire Magazine, its staff or publisher.

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PUBLISHER'S CORNER LET'S CELEBRATE MIAMI BEACH PRIDE 2019!

Miami Beach Pride started in 2009 as a neighborhood event. Today, it is a multi-day celebration recognized on the world stage, which has included celebrities such as Gloria Estefan, Ross Mathews, Mario Lopez and Gus Kenworthy as Grand Marshals; and performers such as Adam Lambert, Taylor Dayne, Betty Who, Thelma Houston and Jordin Sparks as headliner entertainers. Attendance has grown from an estimated 15,000 spectators for the first Pride Parade to approximately 145,000 attendees last year.

Local residents and visitors from around the world now enjoy our Pride with us every year.

The Pride Parade on Ocean Drive has also grown to over 70 parade contingencies, 35 floats and 3,000 participants in 2018; and last year the Pride Festival featured over 100 LGBTQ-friendly vendors and businesses, lots of refreshments, diverse entertainment and headliners on two stages, a family-friendly play area, and beautiful fireworks. Miami Beach Pride was also named one of the "Top 100 Events of the Year" for the fifth year in a row by BizBash magazine.

This week, we are delighted to bring you our annual Wire Magazine Miami Beach Pride Special Issue with in-depth interviews of Ally Grand Marshals Judy and Dennis Shepard, parents of Matthew Shepard and founders of the Matthew Shepard Foundation, who will be helping kick off this year's 11th annual Pride celebration. We also interview Advocate Grand Marshal Juan Sánchez, a beloved LGBTQ community champion and 31year veteran of the Miami Beach Police Department, who has been part of Miami Beach Pride in one way or another since the beginning.

In addition to sitting down with the 2019 Grand Marshals, we also preview some of the great upcoming Pride entertainment with our interviews of Swedish electro-pop duo Icona Pop, headlining Miami Beach Pride on Sunday, April 7, at the Celebrity Cruises stage; and LGBTQ icon Amanda Lepore, coming to Miami Beach Pride to host Urge Spektrum, the official Pride Saturday night event featuring world-renowned DJs Abel and Nacho Chapado. Emily Estefan, whose musical career has included writing, producing and performing music – in the footsteps of her music legend parents Emilio and Gloria Estefan – will also headline at Pride on Saturday, April 6.

In addition, this Special Issue includes Wire Magazine's annual Miami Beach Pride Events Schedule – the most comprehensive guide to all official and unofficial Pride events and parties. Check it out to plan your festivities.

There is a lot to do at the 11th annual Miami Beach Pride and a little planning will allow you to enjoy it as much as possible. For additional information, you can also visit miamibeachpride.com.

See you at Miami Beach Pride!

Cheers, Rafa Carvajal Publisher & Editor in Chief rafa@wiremag.com

"EVERY DAY OF YOUR LIVES YOU HAVE A CHANCE SOMETIME DURING THAT DAY TO STAND UP FOR LOVE, ACCEPTANCE AND UNDERSTANDING, AND AGAINST HATE, DISCRIMINATION AND IGNORANCE. USE THOSE MOMENTS. DON'T LET THEM JUST PASS YOU BY." - JUDY & DENNIS SHEPARD 6 WIREMAG.COM | SPECIAL ISSUE #02 2019

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DINING DELICIOUS

By Rafa Carvajal

A CURATED SELECTION OF INTERNATIONAL CULINARY CONCEPTS UNDER ONE ROOF

Developed by Terranova Corporation and designed by Arquitectonica, the Lincoln Eatery encompasses 9,600 square feet of street level culinary space located at the intersection of Lincoln Lane and Meridian Avenue in Miami Beach – with flexible indoor/outdoor seating for over 200 people. Stephen Bittel, Terranova's founder and chairman, noted that "We're extending Lincoln Road's footprint north with the development of the Lincoln Eatery as the anchor. Our goal with the Eatery is to work with local and national culinary entrepreneurs, providing the support and infrastructure they need to be successful; in turn offering an exciting, affordable new dining experience that will be authentic and new to the area. All of the Eatery's tenants will be unique from one another, offering something for every palate. We are thrilled with the creative and delicious mix of cuisines and concepts that are joining forces with us."

8 WIREMAG.COM | SPECIAL ISSUE #02 2019

PHOTOS PROVIDED BY LINCOLN EATERY

he culinary landscape of Lincoln Road has changed over the last few years as many of the eateries that once existed there have closed. Fortunately, diners now have some delicious new dining options with the opening of the Lincoln Eatery, located adjacent to Lincoln Road and open daily 8 a.m. to 11 p.m. This modern food hall, part of a growing global culinary trend, provides locals and tourists with a diverse, curated selection of 13 delightful dining and drinking options to choose from under one roof.

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• Cake Thai Kitchen: A modern interpretation of Thai street food using only high-quality fresh ingredients.

• Gaijin by Cake: A Japanese style gastropub from the owners of Cake Thai featuring Japanese comfort food that includes ramen, yakitori, dumplings and Japanese fried dishes.

• ChillN: A South Florida-based ice cream shop serving scrumptious ice cream flash-frozen with liquid nitrogen and a variety of fresh ingredients and toppings.

• Fresh Garden Bowls: A healthy fast-food alternative with vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free menu items featuring made-to-order salads, wraps and freshly squeezed juices.

• Manhattan Paletas: The first South Florida location for a Mexican-based brand which has been serving all natural frozen paletas made from fruits and other flavors for over 50 years.

• Marble & Rye: A modern take on a traditional New York kosher delicatessen featuring high-quality old world deli • Necessary Purveyor: An expert curator of fine foods staples with a contemporary twist based on handcrafted focused on artisanal dishes inspired by the South; commitrecipes passed down from generation to generation. ted to supporting local, small-scale and artisan producers to incorporate the very best local ingredients in their menu items.

• Patagonia Flavors: A great place to indulge on Argentinian pastries and sweets, including enticing empanadas and medialunas baked fresh daily.

• The Crafted Burger: This eatery serves a mouth-watering variety of burgers with options ranging from 100% prime Angus beef with no fillers to their vegetarian burger, plus a variety of milkshakes and freshly made sweet and savory sides.

• The Tavern Bar: The "Drinkery" is located in the center of Lincoln Eatery, so you can enjoy craft beers, wine and handcrafted cocktails with your favorite food.

• Toast & More: A French bakery with a large selection of savory and sweet tartines, French pastries, quiches and more dishes that you can have for breakfast, lunch or dinner.

• TYO Sushi: A distinctive sushi alternative which takes Japan's signature and time-honored sushi roots and spices them up with today's modern flavors.

• XO Espresso Bar: This specialty coffee bar serves quality coffee, wellness drinks, organic teas and a wide range of small bites and pastries.

It is nice to know that we have an array of new delicious dining alternatives in the heart of Miami Beach. The second phase of Lincoln Eatery, planned for late this year, will be a spacious rooftop terrace with beautiful views of South Beach offering new dining, drinking, special events and lounging options to the public.

Lincoln Eatery. 723 Lincoln Lane, Miami Beach 10 WIREMAG.COM | SPECIAL ISSUE #02 2019

PHOTOS PROVIDED BY LINCOLN EATERY

I recently had the opportunity of sampling the delectable food and cocktails from all the Lincoln Eatery tenants, which include:

MIAMI BEACH PRIDE ALLY GRAND MARSHALS JUDY AND DENNIS SHEPARD:

A MISSION OF LOVE, UNDERSTANDING, COMPASSION AND ACCEPTANCE

By Rafa Carvajal

Photo provided by The Shepard Foundation

"WE WANT PEOPLE TO BE INSPIRED BY WHAT MATT COULD HAVE BEEN, TO DO SOME OF THE WORK WE DO AND THAT MATT WOULD BE DOING." - JUDY & DENNIS SHEPARD

12 WIREMAG.COM | SPECIAL ISSUE #02 2019

iami Beach Pride Ally Grand Marshals Judy and Dennis Shepard, parents of Matthew Shepard and founders of the Matthew Shepard Foundation, will be helping kick off this year's 11th annual Pride celebration. The Matthew Shepard Foundation empowers individuals to embrace human dignity and diversity through outreach, advocacy and resource programs. According to Bruce Horwich, Chairman of Miami Beach Pride, "We are incredibly honored to have Judy and Dennis Shepard be our Miami Beach Pride Ally Marshals this year, and to honor them for their unwavering support and tireless work in the LGBTQ community," while adding that "Their dedication to increasing safety, visibility, and inclusiveness for the LGBTQ community has affected positive change and improved the lives of many LGBTQ youth."

Wire Magazine sat down with Judy and Dennis Shepard to discuss their advocacy work on behalf of the LGBTQ community, and how they feel about being this year's Miami Beach Pride Ally Grand Marshals.

Rafa Carvajal: How do you feel about being this year's Miami Beach Pride Ally Grand Marshals?

Judy & Dennis Shepard: We are always grateful and feel honored to be invited to participate in Pride festivals and events.

The LGBTQ community has come a long way since these events were originally pro-

tests against unequal treatment, so we are always mindful that it took a long time for them to become celebrations. Even now, marching for equality is a dangerous and worrisome act of bravery in many parts of the world we've visited – frankly, in parts of our country, too. It's never far from our minds how much Matt would have appreciated the progress to this point and how far there is still to go.

RC: What would you say to a young person being bullied for being gay?

J&DS: First and foremost, do what you can to stay safe and not get hurt by others or by yourself. Find someone you can trust to share what you are going through, whether that's a friend, a teacher, a counselor, a parent, or someone else caring in the community who can offer a safe space. Explore what services and support are available in your community, or nationally, such as hotlines, websites and LGBTQ and school safety nonprofits. Remember you are loved, you are valuable, and you are not alone.

RC: What is the mission of the Matthew Shepard Foundation?

J&DS: The Foundation's mission is to erase hate and ignorance and replace them with understanding, compassion, and acceptance. We do that through outreach to schools, workplaces and community groups, through hate crime prevention, training police and prosecutors, and members of minority communities, through resources for

young people on matthewsplace.com, and by supporting productions of The Laramie Project and other performances and works of art that tell Matt's story and provoke dialogue.

RC: What can parents do to protect LGBTQ children and young adults from discrimination and violence?

J&DS: Most importantly of all, parents need to provide safe spaces for their kids (and their friends' kids, sometimes) to be open and authentic as their true selves. Too many parents throw their LGBTQ kids away, literally, and that needs to stop, and loving support needs to be provided for those young people independently of their families. Second, be involved in your kids' schools and activities, whether that's through the PTA, through coaching sports, or by communicating with their teachers and administrators and school districts. Finally: vote. Vote as if your kids' well-being depends on it because it very much does.

RC: Tell our readers about your advocacy work on behalf of the LGBTQ community.

J&DS: We have spoken at just under 1,000 schools, community organizations, workplaces, legislative hearings, and media outlets since the work began in earnest 20 years ago. We've been on Ellen and Oprah, but also a lot of Channel 5s and Channel 12s around the country. We've visited close to 30 countries and met with community members, government officials and civil rights advocates, a lot of them in places like Russia, Jamaica or El Salvador, where being LGBTQ is extremely challenging and even frightening. We've kind of lost count, but the Foundation staff figures we must have had at least three to four million people hear our message at some point along the way, if not more. It's a lot of time in airports, it's a lot of nights in hotels, but we have met the most extraordinary, brave, dedicated people in that time, and we are so humbled and grateful that we have played some small part in making their journeys more positive and hopeful.

RC: Tell us about the Matthew Shepard and James Byrd, Jr. Hate Crimes Prevention Act. J&DS: The Shepard-Byrd Act is literally the first piece of federal legislation that identified LGBTQ people for some kind of protection instead of some kind of inequality, so it sent a message 10 years ago when it passed that things might be about to change for the better. And they did. It has allowed charges to be brought and justice obtained in almost 50 cases where local authorities couldn't, or wouldn't, obtain an appropriate

"IT'S NEVER FAR FROM OUR MINDS HOW MUCH MATT WOULD HAVE APPRECIATED THE PROGRESS TO THIS POINT AND HOW FAR THERE IS STILL TO GO." - JUDY & DENNIS SHEPARD Photo provided by The Shepard Foundation

legal outcome in hate crimes against lesbian, gay, and trans people, as well as disabled people. It's literally changing lives for victims, survivors and their loved ones. It needs to be strengthened, and there needs to be better law enforcement transparency and reporting, and more states need to follow the federal lead in their own state laws, but it has provided a platform from which we can try to make those improvements.

RC: How would you like people to remember your son Matthew?

J&DS: It's important to us that people remember Matt as a whole person, someone who in a fair and just world would be alive today and doing all the normal things -- being in love, doing great work, not experiencing discrimination or violence, who knows, maybe being married, maybe having a kid or two. Certainly, we think he would have been doing work in support of human rights and he would be as upset and driven as we are to change this climate of hate and division we seem to be living in. He can't do those things because somewhere along the way, two young men who learned how to hate and hurt people fell through the cracks of our society. We want people to be inspired by what Matt could have been, to do some of the work we do and that Matt would be doing.

RC: Is there anything else you'd like to share with Wire Magazine readers?

J&DS: Every day of your lives you have a chance sometime during that day to stand up for love, acceptance and understanding, and against hate, discrimination and ignorance. Use those moments. Don't let them just pass you by. We each have a lot of power to inspire the people close to us to live better, more constructive lives, but a lot of the time we don't use it. Please use it.

SPECIAL ISSUE #02 2019 | WIREMAG.COM 13

nator, helping where I could with these types of crimes. This was aside from my day to day job, which was as a special victims detective.

Photo by Rene Pimental

MIAMI BEACH PRIDE ADVOCATE GRAND MARSHAL JUAN Sร NCHEZ: A CAREER ADVOCATING FOR THE LGBTQ COMMUNITY One of the best things about being the owner and publisher of Wire Magazine is meeting many interesting people from all walks of life. One of those people is Juan Sรกnchez, this year's Miami Beach Pride Advocate Grand Marshal. I thought I knew a lot about Juan. It turns out that I learned much more about him and his career when we sat down to discuss what he has done for the LGBTQ community over his 31-years with the Miami Beach Police Department, what being a gay police officer was like at the beginning of Juan's career and how it evolved over time.

Rafa Carvajal: How does it feel to be this year's Miami Beach Pride Advocate Grand Marshal?

Juan Sรกnchez: To say that I am honored is not enough. I have been part of this parade in one way or another since the beginning. It never crossed my mind that one day I would be a Grand Marshal. I am truly blessed to be able to be part of this event. I can't wait to have fun with my family and friends, and truly partake in my first Miami Beach Pride as a regular Joe. RC: Tell our readers about your local advocacy work for the LGBTQ community in Miami Beach.

JS: In 2010, I was appointed as the LGBTQ liaison between the police department and the LGBTQ community. This position serves as a key advisor to the chief of police and his staff on LGBTQ needs. I identified a potential conflict between the police department and the LGBTQ community, bringing it to the attention of the chief and his staff. It was my job to conciliate, mediate, facilitate, train and/or refer services, depending on the needs of the department. I built partnerships to address tension and offer suggestions for resolution. I also served as an unofficial hate crimes coordi14 WIREMAG.COM | SPECIAL ISSUE #02 2019

RC: What were your most important duties and top 3 accomplishments as the Miami Beach Police Department's LGBTQ liaison?

JS: I believe my most important duty was fostering a positive relationship between the community and the police department. My top 3 accomplishments are: a) I developed the department's hate crimes reporting training module, which was taught to all members of the organization. This training was crucial because the proper reporting process assists the Miami-Dade State Attorney's Office in filing the proper charges related to hate crimes. b) I was very fortunate to serve as the department's ambassador in a series of meetings at the Department of Justice (DOJ) in Washington, D.C. I had the opportunity to help develop their law enforcement and the transgender community training. This training led me to develop the department's transgender interactions standard operating procedure. I was also asked to assist the DOJ in presenting their training throughout Florida and Atlanta, GA. c) An email written by a 17-year-old male was referred to me. This young man, who was openly gay, was in a panic because his family was threatening to "kick him out of the house" upon graduating from school because of his sexuality. I was able to put him into contact with Pridelines and get him much necessary assistance. I remember thinking how incredibly sad and how courageous this young man really was.

"I THOUGHT ABOUT A GOOD SAYING TO BRIEFLY DESCRIBE YOU AND WHAT CAME TO MIND WAS THE MILITARY'S 'DON'T ASK, DON'T TELL' POLICY AND, IN MY OPINION, YOU SINGLEHANDEDLY MADE OUR DEPARTMENT AND OUR CITY EMBRACE A POLICY OF 'ASK, TELL, ACCEPT, AND MOVE ON!'" - LIEUTENANT STEVE FELDMAN

RC: Tell us about your work with the Department of Justice to help develop a transgender training program that was rolled out to police departments across the U.S. JS: This was a once in a lifetime opportunity. To be able to come together with police agencies and LGBTQ organizations from across the country with one common goal was surreal to me. So much was accomplished to help out my law enforcement brothers and sisters better understand the transgender community and vice versa.

When I was asked to help roll out the training, I admit I was a little apprehensive. I didn't know how the training would be accepted by my peers. I was very pleased to see how many officers were receptive to the information presented and how many really did not want to offend anyone in the transgender community. It was a clear sign that times were changing for the better, that the transgender community should no longer fear the police and, instead, see them as allies. It paved the way for the department to be one of the first in Florida to have a standard operating procedure detailing how to interact with the transgender community.

This same policy was used by many departments across the U.S. as a model policy for their own agencies. I would be remiss if I didn't give credit to the Center for Transgender Equality in Washington, D.C. for their help and guidance with the creation of the Miami Beach policy.

RC: How did being a gay man in the Miami Beach Police Department change over your 31-year career?

JS: I was terrified of anyone finding out. I struggled with how to fit in. I wanted to be me, but I also loved being a police officer. I remember being at TWIST with friends and asking them to go outside ahead of me, when leaving, to make sure no one from the police department was outside. I finally became brave enough and came out to two colleagues, Officer Robert Silvagni and Howard Bennett. Their reactions gave me the courage to come out to everyone else. After the fact, I realized I had nothing to worry about. All my law enforcement family cared about was that I was there when they needed me and that I did my part. When I retired, I received a beautiful email from Lieutenant Steve Feldman, a great police officer and an equally great friend. He closed out his email with, "I thought about a good saying to briefly describe you and what came to mind was the military's 'Don't ask, don't tell' policy and,

Photo by SRL Media, Inc.

Photo by J.R. Davis

in my opinion, you single-handedly made our department and our city embrace a policy of 'Ask, tell, accept, and move on!'" It still brings tears to my eyes. It has sort of become my mantra. This is a prime example as to how far police departments have come. And yes, Steve, we need to put this on a shirt.

RC: Is there anything else you'd like to share with Wire Magazine readers?

JS: Thank you for taking the time to read this article, and thank you to the good people in Miami Beach for allowing me to serve with respect and dignity in the community I grew up in.

Visit wiremag.com to read the extended version of these interviews.

SPECIAL ISSUE #02 2019 | WIREMAG.COM 15

MIAMI BEACH PRIDE 2019

EVENTS SCHEDULE *Official Miami Beach Pride Event

Photo by SRL Media, Inc.

THURSDAY, APRIL 4, 2019

FRIDAY, APRIL 5, 2019

PAMM FREE COMMUNITY NIGHT* Perez Art Museum Miami 1103 Biscayne Blvd., Miami 7-11 p.m.

Admission: Free

SUNNY-SIDE-UP BRUNCH + ONE LOVE T-DANCE Palace 1052 Ocean Dr., Miami Beach 5 p.m.

SALVATION PROUD Treehouse 323 23rd St., Miami Beach 10 p.m. - 5 a.m.

Admission: $30 advance tickets

Join in for a Miami Beach Pride celebration like no other on the waterfront terrace of the Pérez Art Museum Miami with live music, drink specials, drag performances and more.

Get your drag brunch on at Palace, hosted

by Tiffany Fantasia 12-4 p.m. Then, at 5 p.m., Party at the One Love T-Dance hosted

by TP Lords with music by DJ Cesar Hernandez.

Start your Pride weekend in style at Salvation Proud. Dance to the beats of DJ Isaac Escalante and DJ Rafael Barreto. Tickets available at urgemiami.com.

DOLL BRAWL TWIST 1057 Washington Ave., Miami Beach 1 p.m. - 5 a.m.

Admission: Free

A SUNSET PRIDE CELEBRATION* The Standard Spa 40 Island Ave., Miami Beach 5:30-8:30 p.m.

Admission: $35

Pride kicks off with a new round of Doll Brawl competition on Thursday. Athena Dion referees and hosts this weekly event, pitting contestants against the reigning doll.

The show starts at midnight. Music by DJ Aulden Brown. "Never a cover… Always a groove."

A Sunset Pride Celebration is an opportunity for the staff of the It Gets Better Project to connect with influential members of the LGBTQ community, and to advocate for the important, often life-saving work the Project and its affiliates are doing on a daily basis on behalf of LGBTQ youth. Complimentary transportation will be given to attendees going to the Miami Beach Pride VIP Gala.

Photo by J.R. Davis

MIAMI BEACH PRIDE VIP GALA* Emanuel Luxury Venue 1723 Washington Ave., Miami Beach 7:30-10:30 p.m.

Admission: $125 Join in for an unforgettable VIP Gala evening complete with live entertainment, an open bar and delicious hors d'oeuvres.

Meet the 2019 Ally Grand Marshals, Judy and Dennis Shepard, while enjoying music

by Beth Ann Sacks. Dress code is cocktail attire.

16 WIREMAG.COM | SPECIAL ISSUE #02 2019

PRIDE KICK-OFF PARTY* Basement at Edition Hotel 2901 Collins Ave., Miami Beach 11 p.m. - 5 a.m.

Admission: $29 advance tickets. $49 VIP presale Kick-off your Pride weekend with DJ Anne Louise, DJ De Felipe, Deejay Smeejay, and DJ Theresa at Basement – with a nightclub, bowling alley, ice-skating rink, and award-winning sound and lighting. Put on your gear, have no fear and get ready to go underground.

ALWAYS PACKED TWIST 1057 Washington Ave., Miami Beach 1 p.m. - 5 a.m.

Admission: Free Get ready for superstar DJ Bill Hallquist as he packs the room with sexy men dancing into the morning hours. Arrive early to avoid the lines. "Never a cover… Always a groove."

SATURDAY, APRIL 6, 2019 SATURDAY BRUNCH EXTRAVAGANZA Palace 1052 Ocean Dr., Miami Beach 11:30 a.m. or 2 p.m.

Enjoy delicious food and fabulous drag queens! Hosted by Noel Leon with music

by DJ Josh Riptide. Serving two seatings, 11:30 a.m. and 2 p.m.

PRIDELINES YOUTH DISTRICT & SAFE ZONE SPONSORED BY THE MIAMI MARLINS* Lummus Park On the grass between 11th St. & 12th St. off of Ocean Drive 12-8 p.m.

Admission: Free

The Pridelines Youth District & Safe Zone sponsored by the Miami Marlins is a fun, interactive Pride zone dedicated just to HEAT - THE MIAMI BEACH PRIDE LGBTQ young people and their allies, ages POOL PARTY* 14-20. The District is a safe space packed The Clevelander with activities and surprises, including fanta12-8 p.m. sy makeup, special Miami Marlins guests, 1020 Ocean Dr., Miami Beach selfie opportunities with Miami's top drag Admission: $29 presale ticket, $49 VIP queens, neon dance parties, a graffiti wall, contests, prizes, and more. Enjoy free food, Get ready to party with some of Miami's hottest guys at a sexy pool party with state- round-the-clock snacks, non-alcoholic beverages, and a place to charge your devices. of-the-art lights, sound and LEDs. Enjoy beats by DJ Dan Slater and DJ Dani Brasil.

LAMBDA LIVING LOUNGE VIP tickets include 2 free vodka drinks SPONSORED BY TRULIEVE* before 2 p.m., express entry, and access to Lummus Park the private lounge.

12-10 p.m.

PRIDE FESTIVAL VILLAGE* Enjoy the Lambda Living Lounge sponsored Lummus Park

by Trulieve for the "more experienced" 1116 Ocean Dr., Miami Beach Pride-goers. Stop by to get out of the sun, 12-10PM relax and enjoy healthy snacks and surprisAdmission: Free es.

Nowhere is the spirit of Pride and enAHF NORTH VIP LOUNGE & thusiasm more apparent than during the extraordinary two-day Festival on Saturday CELEBRITY CRUISES VIP LOUNGE* Lummus Park and Sunday, featuring two stages with 2-10 p.m. world-class DJs, performers, and celebrity Admission: $150 entertainers. Enjoy special performances throughout the day, along with 125 vendor Enjoy front-row VIP status for the Miami booths, food, and cocktails. The Festival Beach Pride Festival from two exclusive VIP also includes the Pridelines Youth District Lounges, the AHF Lounge and the Celebrity and Safe Zone, Lambda Living Lounge, Cruises Lounge, located next to the two BB&T Food Pavilion, "The Garden of Eve" Women's tent and many family-friendly ac- main stages. Get complimentary cocktails tivities. Emily Estefan will headline Saturday. and delicious food at both VIP lounges as you watch the entertainment and browse through the Festival attractions. You will J.R. Davis Photo by also have exclusive meet-and-greet opportunities with Pride VIPs, celebrities and performers.

DIVERSITY T-DANCE Palace 1052 Ocean Dr., Miami Beach 5 p.m.

Party with Tiffany Fantasia at Palace's Diversity T-Dance. Enjoy beats by DJ TonYYnoT from New York.

ABSOLUT OPULENCE Hôtel Gaythering 1409 Lincoln Road, Miami Beach 8 p.m. - midnight Hôtel Gaythering and Absolut join forces to embrace the community and celebrate taking Pride in Diversity 365 with an Absolut takeover of Gaythering featuring complimentary Absolut drinks from 8 p.m. to midnight.

URGE SPEKTRUM* The Loft 11 p.m. - 7 a.m.

1439 Washington Ave., Miami Beach Admission: $40 advance tickets Celebrate Pride at Urge Spektrum, the official Saturday night party at The Loft (previously known as Score). Party all night long with the legendary Amanda Lepore and music by DJ Abel and DJ Nacho Chapado.

MUSCLE BOY SATURDAYS TWIST 1057 Washington Ave., Miami Beach 1 p.m. - 7 a.m.

Admission: Free Enjoy VJ Nathan's videos all night in the Video Room, where they'll keep you dancing all night. Get there before midnight because it will get very packed and you might not get in. Music by DJ Mika spinning deep house all night in the main room until 7 a.m.

"Never a cover… Always a groove." jal Photo by Rafa Carva

Photo by J.R

. Davis

SPECIAL ISSUE #02 2019 | WIREMAG.COM 17

SUNDAY, APRIL 7, 2019 ACTION!* The Hangar 60 NE 11th Street, Miami 6-11 a.m.

Party with world-renowned DJ/producer Ivan Gomez from Spain, plus an opening set by Colombia's rising star DJ Musso and LPN resident DJ Carlos G. Hosted by Enchantress Valeria Coutier and her hot dancers! Tickets available at lpnparty.com THE OFFICIAL VIEWING BRUNCH Palace 1052 Ocean Dr., Miami Beach 11:30 a.m. - 2 p.m.

Admission: $80/per person Get front row seats to the Miami Beach Pride Parade while enjoying delicious food at Palace. Hosted by TP Lords and Missy Meyakie. Featuring Joanna James and Elishaly D'Witshes. Music by DJ Josh Riptide.

Serving one seating from 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m.

11TH ANNUAL MIAMI BEACH PRIDE PARADE* 12-2 p.m.

Ocean Drive Admission: Free For the 11th year in a row, the Parade will be one of the highlights of a full week of Pride events. The length of Ocean Drive along the Art Deco district will be closed to traffic and open wide to our proud South Florida LGBTQ families, friends, co-workers, allies, Pride sponsor organizations, groups, and businesses. Please refrain from bringing backpacks and large bags. If you must bring these types of items, you must use a see-through bag.

PRIDE FESTIVAL VILLAGE Lummus Park 12-10 p.m.

Admission: Free

PRIDE 2019 DISCO BALL T-DANCE TWIST 1057 Washington Ave., Miami Beach 1 p.m. - 5 a.m.

Nowhere is the spirit of Pride and enTWIST opens at 1 p.m. for a rocking happy thusiasm more apparent than during the hour; then, join in at 6 p.m. for the Disco extraordinary two-day Festival on Saturday Ball T Dance with the infamous DJ Lady and Sunday that features two stages with Bunny taking the decks in Bar 5. Do not world-class DJs, entertainers, and celebrity miss this party! Lady Bunny will keep the entertainers. Enjoy special surprise perground floor of TWIST dancing and sashayformances throughout the day, with 125 ing. The entire upstairs opens at 10 p.m. vendor booths, food, and cocktails.

Arrive early to avoid the long line. DJ Paulie will continue the party until 5 a.m.

LAMBDA LIVING LOUNGE SPONSORED BY TRULIEVE* PRIDE NATION T-DANCE Lummus Park Palace 12-10 p.m.

1052 Ocean Dr., Miami Beach 5 p.m.

Enjoy the Lambda Living Lounge sponsored

by Trulieve for the "more experienced" Continue the festivities at Palace during the Pride-goers. Stop by to get out of the sun, Pride Nation T-Dance with a very special relax and enjoy healthy snacks guest DJ and hot go-go dancers. and surprises.

SUNDAY HEADLINER AHF NORTH VIP LOUNGE & PERFORMANCE: ICONA POP* CELEBRITY CRUISES VIP LOUNGE* Celebrity Cruises Stage Lummus Park Lummus Park, Miami Beach 2-10 p.m.

9-9:30 p.m.

Admission: $150 Electropop duo Icona Pop, whose breakout Enjoy front-row VIP status for the Miami hit "I Love It" topped charts worldwide in Beach Pride Festival from two exclusive VIP 2013, will perform at Miami Beach Pride Lounges, the AHF Lounge and the Celebrity as the headlining act.

Cruises Lounge, located next to the two main stages. Get complimentary cocktails FIREWORKS* and delicious food at both VIP lounges as Over the ocean off of 11th street you watch the entertainment and browse 10 p.m. through the Festival attractions. You will also have exclusive meet-and-greet opEnjoy the beautiful Pride fireworks show portunities with Pride VIPs, celebrities and over the ocean from the sands of South performers.

Beach.

CLIMAX PRIDE: TRIBAL EDITION* The Loft 1439 Washington Ave., Miami Beach 10 p.m. - 5 a.m.

Admission: $39.99 for early tickets The official event for Sunday night Miami Beach Pride will feature RuPaul's Drag Race: All-Stars' DJ Nina Flowers, and Climax resident DJ Jerac. Hosted by the Legendary Alan T. Featuring Enchantress Valeria Coutier and her hot muscle dancers.

Tickets available at climaxmiami.com.

Photo by SRL Media, Inc.

18 WIREMAG.COM | SPECIAL ISSUE #02 2019

ICONA POP

WILL HEADLINE MIAMI BEACH PRIDE 2019

By Michael Bustamante

cona Pop, the Swedish electro-pop duo comprised of Caroline Hjelt and Aino Jawo, is set to headline Miami Beach Pride on Sunday, April 7, with an energetic performance at the Celebrity Cruises stage at 9 p.m. The triple-platinum winning duo will take Pride-goers on an interstellar adventure of love below the Miami Beach sky. They will be playing some of their biggest hits, including "I Love It," "Girlfriend" and "All Night."

Michael Bustamante: How did you become involved with Miami Beach Pride 2019?

Icona Pop: We´ve always done Pride festivals all around the world and this year we got a request from Miami Beach, one of our favorite places. We are all about expressing yourself and the equality movement and, for us, it's a very important statement to be a part of this.

MB: How does it feel to be the headlining act this year?

IP: We feel proud and excited. It's the first show of the summer so it's gonna be insane. MB: What is your favorite part about performing?

IP: We love the feeling when you become one with the audience. It's like we are having a concert together with them. It's like nothing outside that space exists. We give so MB: What does Pride mean to you?

IP: It means coming together, celebrating much on stage but we get so much back from our beautiful fans. and spreading the message of love. It's also a place where everyone can express MB: Where do you see yourselves in five years? themselves freely and be proud of who you IP: In five years, we see ourselves doing what we do now but a little bit bigger and a are, who you love. It's happiness, freedom, little better, and hopefully we are a little bit wiser, hehe. people, cultures, and music all in the same MB: What would you be doing if you weren't making music? place.

Aino: I would be an astronaut or a superhero.

MB: What would you like to say to fans who Caroline: Haha, well then I would be Aino's little puppy and travel with her to space will be celebrating Miami Beach Pride with with an endless supply of treats and cuddles. you on April 7?

IP: We would love to promise our fans MB: Is there anything else you'd like to share with Wire Magazine readers? a dance party, so they better put on their IP: First of all, thank you for being absolutely the best fans ever. We are so excited and honored to be a part of Pride this year and many more to come. A lot of new dancing shoes. music is in the pipeline and we can't wait to show it to you all.

20 WIREMAG.COM | SPECIAL ISSUE #02 2019

PHOTO PROVIDED BY ICONA POP

Wire Magazine sat down with Icona Pop to preview their Miami Beach Pride headlining performance.

HEALTH & WELLNESS

By Rafa Carvajal

CARDIOTHORACIC SURGEON BRINGS WORLD-CLASS EXPERTISE ackson Health System is proud to welcome Romualdo J. Segurola, Jr., MD, a world-renowned surgeon in minimally invasive cardiothoracic surgery, to its comprehensive heart team. Dr. Segurola, who joined the Jackson Medical Group in April 2019, is chief of cardiac surgery for Jackson and will be leading the new Jackson Heart Surgery Institute, which brings together two of the most trusted names in the community to form the region's most comprehensive heart team. During his 15-year career, Dr. Segurola has performed more than 6,000 cardiac procedures and 4,000 thoracic procedures.

In recent years, he transitioned his practice to focus on minimally invasive heart surgery and percutaneous valve replacement, which lead to higher success outcomes and shorter recovery periods for patients.

Photo provided by Jackson Health System

PHOTO CREDIT: Š DEPOSITPHOTOS.COM | SYDA_PRODUCTIONS

TO THE JACKSON HEART SURGERY INSTITUTE

Jackson is committed to the LGBTQ community and was recognized as a "Leader in LGBTQ Healthcare Equality" by the Human Rights Campaign (HRC) Foundation.

Wire Magazine sat down with Dr. Segurola to learn more about his career, his new role at Jackson, and why patients should choose the Jackson Heart Surgery Institute.

Rafa Carvajal: How do you feel about joining Jackson Health System, one of the largest healthcare systems in the country, and one that has been acknowledged year after year as a leader in LGBTQ healthcare equality by the Human Rights Campaign Foundation?

Dr. Segurola: It's an honor and privilege to join Jackson, one of the largest public hospital systems in the country, one of the most important teaching hospitals in Florida, and one of the most respected institutions in Miami-Dade County. Most people in our community know someone who has relied on Jackson to save their life. While Jackson is large and can be intimidating, it is a friendly and welcoming place for everyone — regardless of their socioeconomic status, their gender identity, their sexual orientation, their religion, or their race. And Jackson is proud of its mission to serve all residents of Miami-Dade County regardless of their ability to pay.

22 WIREMAG.COM | SPECIAL ISSUE #02 2019

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Hours of operation: M-F: 6:30 am - 6:30 pm PST, Sat: 8:00 am - 2:30 pm PST, Closed Sun

Proof of Jackson's commitment to the LGBTQ community is its recognition as a "Leader in LGBTQ Healthcare Equality" by the Human Rights Campaign (HRC) Foundation. Jackson has repeatedly earned top marks for its policies and practices related to lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender patients and their families, visitors, and employees. I take great pride in ensuring that we provide an environment that supports the individual and family needs of our LGBTQ population as part of Jackson's mission.

RC: What is one of the most rewarding aspects of your career?

DS: I enjoy spending time with local medical students, interns, and residents during their rotation at the hospital – something I've done since August 2011, when I was appointed the chief of the division of cardiothoracic surgery and associate professor of surgery for the Department of Surgery at Nova Southeastern University. Introducing them to the operating room theater and mentoring them to select a surgical specialty is an absolute honor. I also frequently mentor high school students and invite them to watch open heart surgery. Their facial expressions as they see a heart beating for the first time are priceless and so rewarding. By giving them this experience, I hope it will have an impact on their future education.

RC: Describe your new role.

DS: As the chief of cardiac surgery, I bring expertise in cardiac, thoracic, minimally invasive and percutaneous catheter valve replacement procedures to Jackson. Additionally, I will be the director for the Percutaneous Valve Replacement Program (also known as TAVR) and the Mitral Clip Program.

RC: What services are available at the Jackson Heart Surgery Institute?

DS: The center is a comprehensive, integrated care system that will provide anything from minimally invasive cardiac surgery to highly specialized cardiac procedures to life-saving heart transplants for adult and pediatric patients. There is nothing we can't do at Jackson. With our multidisciplinary team of numerous specialists trained to treat patients of all ages, Miami heart care is much stronger.

24 WIREMAG.COM | SPECIAL ISSUE #02 2019

Photo provided by Jackson Health System

Romualdo Jose Segurola, Jr., MD, is board-certified and chief cardiac surgeon for the Jackson Heart Surgery Institute at Jackson Health System. He is also part of the Jackson Medical Group, a team of expert specialists. For more information or to make an appointment, call 305.585.4564 or visit miamiheartleader.org.

PHOTO CREDIT: Š DEPOSITPHOTOS.COM | TONODIAZ

RC: What do you want the community to know about you when it comes to the care of their loved ones, particularly with members of the LGBTQ community?

As someone who grew up in Miami, I am DS: Jackson is the health system for everyone. And it is the best of the best. We don't excited about this new chapter in my career discriminate against anyone. Over the last century, Jackson has grown to become working at this incredible institution. one of the most respected institutions in Miami-Dade County. Everyone who walks through our doors receives world-class care and we're sensitive to the unique needs RC: Tell us about the team that will be join- of every individual in our diverse community. ing you at Jackson.

DS: Along with my two partners, Dr. Alfre- RC: What should someone look for when choosing a heart doctor? do Rego and Dr. Efren Buitrago, we estab- DS: The most important thing when choosing a doctor can be summarized in one balished the South Florida Heart & Lung Insti- sic principle: find a doctor who cares and who has a proven track record of success. tute, which became the largest freestanding cardiovascular and thoracic practice in Miami-Dade and Broward counties. Dr. Rego and I started and developed the last two open-heart surgery programs in Miami-Dade at Aventura Hospital and Palmetto General Hospital. My team hopes to exemplify this same type of leadership at Jackson to serve this community, be the hospital of choice for patients in need of cardiac services, and be part of the miracles that occur throughout Jackson every day. I look forward to incorporating a multidisciplinary team of experts that will work closely with my team to make the Jackson Heart Surgery Institute the best center for heart care in the region.

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OUT & ABOUT

By Michael Bustamante

URGE SPEKTRUM THE OFFICIAL MIAMI BEACH PRIDE SATURDAY NIGHT EVENT

iving icon Amanda Lepore is heading to Miami Beach Pride for Urge Spektrum, the official Pride Saturday night event. The former Club Kid turned celebrity, singer, and performance artist will be partying all night with attendees at The Loft (formerly known as Score) located at 1439 Washington Avenue in Miami Beach. The Pride celebration will feature world-renowned DJs Abel and Nacho Chapado.

The Loft will open at 11 p.m. and remain open for special extended hours until 7 a.m. Get your tickets at urgemiami.com and purchase them early because prices will rise on a tiered scale.

Wire Magazine sat down with Amanda Lepore to discuss what Pride means to her, and preview the Urge Spektrum party and her new EP, Lepore.

Michael Bustamante: Tell us about your life as a living icon, and your involvement with Miami Beach Pride 2019.

Amanda Lepore: I'm very lucky and I love what I do. I really appreciate that people think of me as an icon and I don't take it for granted.

I'm excited to be in Miami during Miami Beach Pride this year.

MB: What does Pride mean to you?

AL: A celebration of everyone coming together in support of equal rights.

MB: What do you love most about being in Miami Beach?

AL: I love the Miami nightlife and warm weather.

MB: What projects are you currently working on?

AL: I have been working on music videos from my EP, Lepore. In January, I released my tribute to David Bowie on his birthday of "The Jean Genie," and newly released is the video for "Buckle Up!" MB: Is there anything else you'd like to share with Wire Magazine readers?

AL: I love you all, and can't wait to party with you in Miami!

To learn more about Amanda Lepore, visit amandalepore.net, and follow her on Instagram @amandalepore.

26 WIREMAG.COM | SPECIAL ISSUE #02 2019

PHOTO BY VIJAT MOHINDRA

MB: What should we expect from the Urge Spektrum party?

AL: A celebration of Pride! It's going to be a blast that you won't want to miss!

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FAMILY-CENTERED INCLUSIVE COMPASSION UNDERSTANDING LEADING EXPERT A CULTURE OF INCLUSION At Jackson Health System, we are committed to the diverse communities we serve, as well as providing expert health care. We respect the unique nature of care for LGBTQ patients, families, and friends — keeping an open visitation policy and providing assistance with healthcare surrogacy. Our staff is trained in LGBTQ patient-centered care, ensuring an inclusive and supportive environment to all who walk through our doors. From the moment you arrive — to the time you are treated and ready to leave — you’ll feel welcomed by your Jackson family.

Jackson Health System is proud to be recognized as an “LGBTQ Healthcare Equality Leader” by the Human Rights Campaign (HRC) Foundation.

Visit LGBTQHealthLeader.org to learn more about our leading role in LGBTQ health care.