Pride Issue - Microsoft · of Havi Schanz. Havi was born in Argentina, lives in Miami Beach and has almost 30 years combined experience as an artist, architect, interior and graphic

WE

AR

E A

UN

IFIE

D G

RO

UP

OF

SO

UT

H F

LO

RID

A L

EA

DE

RS

WO

RK

ING

FO

R T

HE

AD

VA

NC

EM

EN

T O

F T

HE

LG

BT

Q C

OM

MU

NIT

Y T

HR

OU

GH

PR

OB

LE

M S

OLV

ING

, S

OC

IAL I

NN

OV

AT

ION

, A

ND

ME

AN

ING

FU

L D

IALO

GU

E,

WH

ILE

CO

MM

ITT

ING

TO

TH

E G

RO

WT

H A

ND

SU

PP

OR

T O

F E

AC

H O

TH

ER

AN

D O

UR

OR

GA

NIZ

AT

ION

S.

{ APRIL – JUNE 2014 }

ISS

UE

# 2

6

Th

e

Pri

de

Is

sue

MIA

MI-

DA

DE

GA

Y &

LE

SB

IAN

CH

AM

BE

R O

F C

OM

ME

RC

E B

US

INE

SS

MA

GA

ZIN

EM

IAM

I-D

AD

E G

AY

& L

ES

BIA

N C

HA

MB

ER

OF

CO

MM

ER

CE

BU

SIN

ES

S M

AG

AZ

INE

0004732_BACARDI Mar 26, 2014GG Fly Beyond Clarity GGAD 10360004732_Clarity_GGAD1036

BACARDIGrey GooseGGAD-1036

TRIM: 8.5” X 11”SAFETY: 8” X 10.5”

PUB: Clarity Magazine

SIP RESPONSIBLYWWW.GREYGOOSE.COM I FACEBOOK.COM/GREYGOOSE©2014. GREY GOOSE, THE GEESE DEVICE AND TRADE DRESS ARE TRADEMARKS.IMPORTED BY GREY GOOSE IMPORTING COMPANY, CORAL GABLES, FL. VODKA 40% ALC. BY VOL.

All we’ve added to France’s finest wheat and spring water is the vision of our creator

and cellar master, Francois Thibault.

MADE WITH JUST TWO INGREDIENTS AND ONE AMBITION. TO MAKE THE

WORLD’S BEST TASTING VODKA.

April – June ‘14 | CLARITY [ 3

President’s Message

In this Issue:

April is PRIDE month in south Florida and we are pleased

that this 6th year of Clarity Magazine coincides with the

6th year of Miami Beach Gay Pride. Both organizations

work tirelessly to ensure our LGBT community is not only

well-represented, but that we can take PRIDE in the work

that they do and product that each puts forth. In this issue

of Clarity we have asked some of our members to: Take

Pride. Great Pride. Your Pride — Tell your business story and

how “equality is good business.” So, as you read through

this quarter’s Clarity we encourage you to support our

advertisers and take PRIDE in all we have accomplished

as a community celebrating what our members have

to share with you.

With PRIDE,

Steve Adkins

Pride in What We Are { page 9 }

Cocktail { page 12 }

Upcoming Events { page 17 }

More Than Luck { page 14 }

Emerald Gala { page 15 }

Good Business { page 17 }

Gaythering { page 4 }

MDGLCC Event Photos { page 11 }

Modern Pride { page 12 }

Legal Advice { page 6 }

Visitor’s Center { page 4 }

Testimonial { page 9 }

Sherry Roberts { page 18 }

Community Advancement { page 21 }

Testimonial { page 21 }

4 ] ClarityMag.com | GoGayMiami.com | GayBizMiami.comREAD US VISIT US JOIN US

Owners, Stephan Ginez and Alex Guerra, proudly support the LGBT community with opening of their new hotel located in the heart of Miami Beach.

Located on the west side of Lin-coln Road, the three story Mimo building was completely gutted and behind its original facade — nothing has been spared to provide a unique experience. The amenities reflect the fact that luxury is no longer about spend-ing the most money. It is about getting the best value and being made to feel special.

It is a place where relationships can organically unfold thus creat-ing a sense of community within the hotel. The Coffee Shop, Lounge and Library serve as incubators for productive minds, as well as casual communal experiences. The hotel promotes ‘gaythering’ and socializing with activities and curated programming.

Stephan and Alex define ‘gaythering’ as to nurture impactful experi-ences and relationships for the LGBT community… and others.

As we celebrate pride, it is a time for us to look back and see how much we have moved forward in terms of rights and recognition. A recent post in a blog helped us define what the wonderful and positive attitude of the hotel:

We welcome all to gather with great pride!

Stephan Ginez and Alex Guerra Hôtel Gaythering 1409 Lincoln Road, Miami Beach, FL 33139 786.284.1176 www.gaythering.com MDGLCC BUSINESS MEMBER

The Name Says It All

“ The LGBT community is made up of a group of people who are fighting for more rights because we have been neglected and stepped on for so many years, however, within our own community we aren’t always very nice to each other. Being kind is so much easier than being a bi*ch. It is time to restart thinking about our next generation of gay men, the ones who are desperately hoping for a better tomorrow and show them that it really does get better and a hell of a lot nicer”

— BY MARK ROSENBERG

Hôtel Gaythering LGBT VISITOR CENTERProud to Be The First of Its Kind

Did you know that the LGBT Visitors Center is available to rent for meetings, seminars, receptions, job fairs and many other types of activities? The space is absolutely beautiful and the possibilities for gatherings are endless. The LGBT Visitor Center is funded and operated by the MDGLCC Foundation, Inc., the non-profit Foundation of the Miami-Dade Gay & Lesbian Chamber of Commerce.

Our LGBT Visitor Center was the first of its kind and remains one of only two in the country. This community gem welcomes LGBT visitors from around

the world every day. You can help support the LGBT Visitor Center by scheduling your next event with us.

The LGBT Visitor Center displays through the year artwork by LGBT artists. Currently in display until the end of April is the work of Havi Schanz. Havi was born in Argentina, lives in Miami Beach and has almost 30 years combined experience as an artist, architect, interior and graphic designer. His vision of art is reflected in a poetic way as his brushstrokes capture people’s feelings and emotions.

For space rental rates and further information please feel free

to call us at 305-397-8914, visit us online at www.gogaymiami.com

or you can email Lori at [email protected].

Please stop by and visit us, make use of the

Michael Anthony Lukacs Computer Center or our free WiFi.

HOURS OF OPERATION: MONDAY – FRIDAY 9:00 A.M. – 6:00 P.M.

SATURDAYS & SUNDAYS 11:00 A.M. – 4:00 P.M.


The total U.S. buying power of adult LGBT individuals has been projected to be $790 billion.* For the LGBT Community we are faced with the decision of how to show our pride every time we decide where and with whom to exercise our portion of this buying power. Nowhere is this more essential than in the selection process of estate planning attorneys, insur-ance agents and wealth advisors.

It is immediately evident when you walk into an office of a profes-sional advisor that knows “Equal-ity is Good Business;” not just a market to increase office revenue.

Allowing you to show your pride for the individual that you are, positive attitudes, open conversation under-scored by the drive of your advisor to maintain excellence in their chosen field are in place for your benefit.

It is advised to employ profes-sionals for whom working in the LGBT Community is not a new attitude simply because discussions about same-sex marriage, gender equality and identity are now sweeping the nation and they see profit in our community, rather, because the pro-

fessionals have always found “Equal-ity” to be sound business. “(E)qual-ity is not just the right thing to do, it is sound business practice.” Deena Fidas, Director HRC Workplace Equal-ity Program, in talking about year 2013 attitude change in big business.†

With wealth comes responsibility and opportunity. Attorney J. Bryan Nugen says “Not only is Equality Good Business for our LGBT clients it is the only type of business in which to engage. Members of the LGBT community need a law firm committed to creating an environment where open and honest discussion is easily held. LGBT client’s wealth is generated over a lifetime. For any law firm to create a legacy for clients, their loved ones and their community an in-depth inquiry and well thought-out estate plan is required. Planning in a moment of crisis creates unnecessary ex-pense, payment of taxes that may be avoided or reduced, delayed distribu-tion of assets and money potentially going to unconnected family members.”

Peggy Hollander, Managing Partner of The Succession Group, an insurance consulting and brokerage firm, stressed the importance of active listening to each LGBT client response when inquiring, “Do you know exactly what would happen to your loved ones if you died or were incapacitated tonight? Perhaps equally or more important, do your loved ones know what would happen if you died tonight? Is there a charitable institution that you deeply care for which you would like to leave a meaningful legacy? Is there sufficient liquidity on your death for both family and loved ones and/or the imposi-tion of estate taxation? Is a life insurance benefit appropriate in your short or long range planning?” She continues, “As-suring to ‘hear’ an LGBT client enables Equality and allows thoughtful crafting of a goal based plan. Often it is not just about money, it is the passing of values.”

Gene C. Sulzberger, JD, CFP® and TEP, a Miami registered investment advisor,

echoes Bryan and Peggy’s sentiments. “A comfort level to discuss his or her personal life story and goals is important in any professional advisor relationship for an LGBT person, of whatever net worth. Planning a person’s financial life plan means understanding where the cli-ent came from, where they are now, and where they are going with their lives. A professional advisor needs not only to be a good listener, but needs to have an un-derstanding of what the client finds his or her highest priorities. In the LGBT com-munity that can involve a very different

understanding of what family is. Investment is a vital part of that overall discussion.”††

The estate planning attorneys, insurance and financial advi-

sors with whom you work not only need to be willing to recognize that Equality is Good Business, but also to imple-ment the attitude. You are encouraged to show your pride when speaking with your advisors about how they implement equality in their practice. The members of the Miami Gay and Lesbian Chamber of Commerce are a great place to start. Member estate planning attorneys, insurance agents and wealth advisors understand and implement “Equality is Good Business” for the right reasons.

* Witeck Communications, “America’s LGBT 2012 Buying Power Projected at $790 Billion” (2012)

† Corporate America Champions LGBT Equality in Record Numbers, December 9, 2013, Human Rights Campaign Press Release. www.hrc.org/cei

†† Gene Sulzberger, 1550 Brickell Avenue, #204B, Miami, FL, 33129; 305-335-7612

Bryan Nugen & Peggy Hollander

Nugen Law www.nugenlaw.com MDGLCC BUSINESS MEMBER

The Succession Group www.succession-group.com MDGLCC BUSINESS MEMBER

Legal Advice From Bryan Nugen & Peggy Hollander

Create an environment where open and honest discussion is easily held.

YOU DON’T HAVE TO GO FAR AWAY TO GET AWAYOceanfront on Miami Beach • 631 spacious rooms and suites across our Legendary and Ocean Towers

Four exclusive pools • First and only Elle Spa & Wellness Center by Elle magazine with 18 treatment rooms

15 Steps signature farm-to-table restaurant • Iconic Lobby Bar • The Cabana Beach Club, light fare dining

On property Starbucks

Hashtag: #EdenRocMB Twitter & Instagram: @EdenRocMB Facebook: EdenRocMiamiResort fee not included, complimentary WiFi and access to the 24-hour fitness center at Elle Spa & Wellness Center by Elle Magazine. Subject to availability. Must show Florida ID at check in.

For reservations visit edenroc.com, call 1.855.433.3676 or email [email protected] and use code LGBT.

4525 Collins Avenue , Miami Beach, Florida 33140. 1.305.531.0000

A member of Destination Hotels & Resorts Collection

EXCLUSIVELY FOR OUR FLORIDA NEIGHBORS

20% off, complimentary breakfast for two and valet parking included.

305.234.3846 • [email protected] • www.originalimpressions.com

Tr a n s f o r m i n g

your brand from one stage to the next

Your Marketing Communications Partner®

As South Florida’s premier marketing communications partner, we transform your ideas into successful projects. The advantage of working with us is that we streamline the creative and production processes into one timeline – and complement it with a portfolio of fully-integrated services.

154189 OI Clarity Ad 8.5x11_butterfly.indd 1 3/21/14 2:13 PM


When is the last time you looked at yourself in the mirror? Not just when you’re brushing your teeth or fixing your hair. I mean really looking at yourself in the mirror? Like what you see? Do you have PRIDE in who you are? Come on take

10 minutes and go in front of the mirror take it all off and take a good long look at yourself front and back…

You are beautiful! Taking pride in ones self is the foun-dation for allowing all other positive influences in your life

to contribute to your overall life experience. Having

pride in who you are, where you

came from, what you have gone through whether good or not so great allows you to open yourself to love and sex in a more profound level of intimacy.

What would you say if I were to tell you that pride in yourself could allow you to give and receive sexual energy

more passionately and intensely? This is because if we have pride in all that we are from the inside and out we are more able to look past faults in others and ourselves and look to the beauty of each of us. This allows us to give more deeply and receive more freely. We are not all perfect!

Pride in who you are can also lead to better com-munication in intimate relationships. It can foster the ability to discuss needs, wants, dreams, and desires. We engage openly and are able to hear openly as well. Rather than hearing criticism we hear concerns from our loved one. We are more will-ing to address those concerns because we are looking at those statements not as an attack on us but as a need from our loved one to engage with them. It’s a request to engage in finding a resolution for the concern. This can help maintain sex and intimacy between each person.

Lastly, when we have pride in who we are, that pride can help us take pride in our over-all life experience. It allows us to see someone we may have overlooked and this not only benefits us as people but our employer’s benefit, our business benefit, our families as well. So if you have not taken those 10 minutes yet to look at yourself in the mirror. Do it! If there is something that you are not just raving about then start your journey to developing more pride in yourself by seeking out help to get you to seeing what has always been inside of you.

Gabriela Galvan de Antillon MS, LMHC, CAP, CST, CSOTS Licensed Psychotherapist

Certified Sex Therapist Blue Pearl Therapeutic 1000 Ponce De Leon Blvd., Suite 212 Coral Gables, Florida 786.383.2738 www.BluePearlTherapeutic.com

MDGLCC BUSINESS MEMBER

Pride In All That We Are

“Pride in who you are can also lead to better communication

in intimate relationships. It can foster the ability to discuss needs,

wants, dreams, and desires.”

“ No other South Florida group offers the opportunities, support and organization that the Miami-Dade Gay & Lesbian Chamber of Commerce offers the LGBTQ community. Unity Coalition|Coalición Unida has been a proud member of the MDGLCC for many years, has partnered in various workshops and community initiatives, and hope to do so for many years to come. The Chamber is the perfect partner for us — helping UC|CU expand our reach, programming and message to the Latino|Hispanic|LGBTQ community and beyond”

— Herb Sosa Unity Coalition| Coalición Unida www.unitycoalition.org MDGLCC NON-PROFIT MEMBER

HOTBOX Member Testimonial

Health Care ForEvery Kind Of Family

Use on ads larger than 8.5x11 inches.

Use on ads smaller than 8.5x11 inches.

In our lifetimes, we’ll face different healthcare challenges – both for

ourselves and for our children. Fortunately, we have access to Jackson

Health System and specialists who can help us at every step.

And that’s access for every member of your family. Jackson respects the

unique nature of your rights with an open visitation policy. If they’re

family to you, they’re family to us. We can also help you with the

appropriate form to designate a healthcare surrogate if the need arises.

It’s no wonder we’ve been recognized by the

Human Rights Campaign as a “Leader In LGBT

Healthcare Equality” for three years running.

Learn more at

JacksonHealth.org/LGBTLeader.asp.

Jackson Memorial Hospital • Jackson North Medical Center • Jackson South Community HospitalHoltz Children’s Hospital • Jackson Behavioral Health Hospital • Jackson Rehabilitation Hospital

JHS0968-Clarity-Ad.qxp 3/24/14 4:21 PM Page 1


Recent Networking Events// MDGLCC NETWORKING EVENTS //Dale Carnegie Training at Soyka Restaurant

Spotlight Mega-Mixer at “15th & Vine Kitchen and Bar” at Viceroy Miami Hotel

“State of Our Community” at Jungle Island

Women’s Empowerment Luncheon at Biltmore Hotel

Health Care ForEvery Kind Of Family

Use on ads larger than 8.5x11 inches.

Use on ads smaller than 8.5x11 inches.

In our lifetimes, we’ll face different healthcare challenges – both for

ourselves and for our children. Fortunately, we have access to Jackson

Health System and specialists who can help us at every step.

And that’s access for every member of your family. Jackson respects the

unique nature of your rights with an open visitation policy. If they’re

family to you, they’re family to us. We can also help you with the

appropriate form to designate a healthcare surrogate if the need arises.

It’s no wonder we’ve been recognized by the

Human Rights Campaign as a “Leader In LGBT

Healthcare Equality” for three years running.

Learn more at

JacksonHealth.org/LGBTLeader.asp.

Jackson Memorial Hospital • Jackson North Medical Center • Jackson South Community HospitalHoltz Children’s Hospital • Jackson Behavioral Health Hospital • Jackson Rehabilitation Hospital

JHS0968-Clarity-Ad.qxp 3/24/14 4:21 PM Page 1


Cocktail of the Season GREY GOOSE® CAPE L’ORANGE SPARKLING PRIDE

Bacardi www.bacardi.com MDGLCC CORPORATE PARTNER MEMBER

Legendary architect Morris Lapidus, champion of Miami Modern “MiMo” architecture, once declared “why be exotic in private?” in reference to his work. Lapidus took great pride in designing venues, like the Eden Roc Miami Beach and Lincoln Road Mall, boldly infused with his cinematic signature style. Character-ized by dramatic curving walls and ceilings punctuated by whimsical cutouts, Lapidus helped form an architec-

tural style that continues to deliver a “banquet of de-light and joy” to residents, tourists and celebrities.

The words of Morris Lapidus, “why be exotic in private?” could also easily be used to celebrate the dynamic emer-gence of the Miami metropoli-tan area onto the world stage as a global capital of art, fashion and design. In modern Miami, you can start to feel a growing sense of pride

developing toward the city as the rest of the world begins to discover what makes Miami so magical. From the opening of leading-edge cultural institu-tions, like the Pérez Art Muse-um Miami, to record breaking events like Miami Beach Gay Pride 2013, which attracted over 80,000 people from all walks of life, a renewed and exhilarating energy is starting to sweep through our area.

“It’s So Miami” has now be-

come a compelling adjective highlighting a worldwide mar-keting campaign to attract vis-itors to experience our famous culinary fare and immersive natural wonders. Upon arrival to Miami, passengers transit-ing through Miami Internation-al Airport are welcomed by captivating images of Miami’s diverse natural and cultural landscape. These colorful visuals only begin to paint the picture of all the things that Miami holds proud and true.

Pride can take many forms and be displayed in many ways. As recognition of what makes Miami so unique and special grows internationally, there are multiple opportuni-ties locally to take pride in our community. As the screenplay of the modern Miami pride story continues to be written, the next chapter could very well take a cue from another famous Morris Lapidus quote “too much is never enough”.

Modern Miami Pride

Kevin Walsh National Sales Manager Eden Roc Miami Beach www.edenrocmiami.com MDGLCC CORPORATE MEMBER

INGREDIENTS

2 Parts GREY GOOSE® L’Orange

2 ½ Parts Cranberry Juice

2/3 parts Lime Juice

1 Lime Wheel Garnish

1 Orange Wheel Garnish

PREPARATION

1. Build ingredients in a highball glass.

2. Add cubed ice and stir.

3. Garnish with a lime and orange wheel.

© Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau – The Official Destination Marketing Organization for Greater Miami and the Beaches.

So someone tried to describe to you how Miami’s so different, so exciting and so party perfect. Know this. No tweet, snapshot or posting will ever be enough. You so have to visit to get it. MiamiLGBT.com

LGBT Visitor Center - 1130 Washington Avenue, Miami Beach MiamiLGBT.com

Winter Party – March | Miami Beach Gay Pride – April | Miami Gay & Lesbian Film Festival – April / May Aqua Girl – May | Sizzle Miami – May | Miami Beach Bruthaz Conference – July | Orgullo – October | White Party – November

01408-CT-Clarity Ad-Jun 2014.indd 1 3/14/14 10:31 AM


Lucky Strike has a long history of chari-table work and has supported various philanthropic causes since the company’s inception over 10 years ago. Specifi-cally, the brand has worked with cancer-related charities and causes, including an excellent relationship

with BreastCancer.org, which is dedicated to providing the most reliable, complete and up-to-date information about breast cancer. Lucky Strike has hosted several fundraising events for BreastCan-cer.org over the past few years, in which more than $1.8 million was raised and Lucky Strike’s partner-

ship with them continues to grow.

This year, Lucky Strike is not only ramping up its philanthropic efforts, it is also focused on reaching out to the LGBT community and showing Lucky Strike’s support of human rights in general. Lucky Strike plans on hosting events for the LGBT community in its venues, whether it’s a networking mixer for professionals, a venue for organizational meetings, speaker events or charity events.

Lucky Strike is a welcoming place for those from any background, and guests can feel comfortable being themselves whether they’re coming in to bowl, eat, drink or play billiards. Fans are encouraged to reach out to the brand with any ideas for hosting LGBT events or to discuss potential initiatives to take place at Lucky Strike venues.

Cindi George Lucky Strike Lanes www.bowlluckystrike.com MDGLCC CORPORATE MEMBER

More Than Luck


The Miami-Dade Gay & Lesbian Chamber Of Commerce (MDGLCC) will honor corporate and individual supporters of the Miami-Dade LGBT community at “The Emerald Gala” its 14th Annual Gala Awards Celebration on Saturday, June 21, at the Hilton Miami Downtown Hotel, 1601 Biscayne Blvd., Miami starting at 6:00 p.m.

Over 600 + guests are expected to be in attendance to pay trib-ute to the honorees selected for their long-term commitment to fostering diversity, as well as for their efforts in contributing to the overall well-being and quality of life in south Florida. While at its core, the gala is a networking event, the evening will have many surprises to make it a fun and a memorable evening.

JOIN US FOR THE

OFFICE DEPOT FOUNDATION (Business of the Year)

CRAIG SMITH FOUNDER AND OWNER OF SOURCE EVENTS

(Business Person of the Year)

NATIONAL GAY & LESBIAN TASK FORCE (Non-Profit Organization of the Year)

THE 2014 HONOREES

This annual event, MDGLCC’s principal fundraising effort of the year, helps sustain operations and the ever-increasing demand to expand programming.

“The Emerald Gala” will consist of a fabulous silent auction followed by dinner, awards ceremony, and dancing. Tickets are $2,000 for tables of 10 or $200 individual tickets.

Each admission includes reserved seating, grand buffet, open bar (featuring Bacardi brands, GREY GOOSE® vodka, wine, beer, non-alcoholic beverages), gift bag, parking, drawing par-ticipation, and complimentary access to the “After Soiree” for dancing & entertainment.

Tickets are available at www.gaybizmiami.com or by calling (305) 673-4440 or emailing [email protected].

The event is produced by the MDGLCC. Major event spon-sors include Global Spectrum, David Bromstad, Wells Fargo Bank...other sponsors include Bacardi / GREY GOOSE® Vodka, Barefoot Wine, AT&T, Morgan Stanley, Regions Bank, Prestige AV & Creative Services, GMCVB, Port of Miami, Hilton Miami Downtown, American Airlines, Williamson Cadillac Buick-GMC, Resorts World Miami, and The Murry Agency.

JUNE 21SATURDAY

Proudly Serving South Florida and The Keys

Paul L. Orshan, Esq. and his law firm offer a debt healing approach

to insolvency and bankruptcy.

Bankruptcy, Litigation and Tax: Practice areas include business and consumer bankruptcy (Chapters 7, 11 and 13), creditor and lender representation, trustee representation, work-outs, receivership, commercial and civil litigation, Assignments for the Benefit of Creditors, and tax controversy.

Marcia Pereira, Esq., fluent in Portuguese and Spanish, specializes in consumer bankruptcy and tax.

150 Alhambra Circle, Suite 1150 Coral Gables, Florida 33134

305-858-0220

Satellite Office on Duval Street in Key West

305-735-2380

Dedicated * Dependable * Diverse

www.ORSHANPA.com

An MDGLCC Corporate Member

Wells Fargo Advisors is the trade name used by two separate registered broker-dealers: Wells Fargo Advisors, LLC, and Wells Fargo Advisors Financial Network, LLC, Members SIPC, non-bank affiliates of Wells Fargo & Company. Accredited Domestic Partnership AdvisorSM and ADPASM are service marks of the College for Financial Planning®. © 2014 Wells Fargo Advisors, LLC, Member SIPC. All rights reserved. (1177144_11324)

The recent Supreme Court ruling on the Defense of Marriage Act led Greg and Peter to take a serious look at their investment planning needs. The rapidly changing legal landscape meant it was crucial that they worked with someone who was knowledgeable, so they turned to Wells Fargo Advisors. Our Financial Advisors who have the Accredited Domestic Partnership Advisor℠ (ADPA®) designation are well-versed on the current set of challenges, so Greg and Peter walked away with a solid plan and confidence in the future.Let’s talk about your long-term investment planning needs. Because when people talk, great things happen. To find one of our ADPA-certified Financial Advisors in your area, visit wellsfargoadvisors. com/adpa today.

Changing laws changed their lives

1177144_11324

Trim: 8.75x11.25

Live: 8.5x11

4c

1177144_11324 8.75x11.25 4c.indd 1 2/26/14 1:52 PM


Florida has passed more than 125 local ordinances banning discrimination and recogniz-ing our families, yet we remain one of 29 states in which it is still legal under state law to discriminate against job appli-cants and employees because of their sexual orientation. In 33 states, including Florida, it is still legal to discriminate based on gender identity.

“Openness to diversity is a driving factor in decisions

about where people choose to live and where corpora-tions choose to relocate or expand their operations,” said Stratton Pollitzer, Deputy Director of Equality Florida. “Business leaders today are not only taking a closer look at their internal policies, they also are looking at the quality of life in the communities in which their increasingly diverse workforce must live.”

According to a recent survey conducted by the nonpartisan Public Religion Research Insti-tute, more than 70% of Ameri-cans strongly support laws that would protect gay and lesbian people in the work-place. In spite of the fact that there is no federal protection, 75% mistakenly believe that it is already illegal to fire or re-fuse to hire someone because of their sexual orientation.

With an international reputa-tion as an LGBT-friendly des-tination, as well as being the “Gateway to Latin America,” South Florida must lead the way in advocating for inclusive-ness in the corporate culture.

Equality Florida formed Equal-ity Means Business (www.EqualityMeansBusiness.org) in 2010 to spotlight and support major employers in Florida that have adopted comprehen-sive non-discrimination poli-cies and have demonstrated their commitment to valuing,

and proactively including, all em-ployees. The or-ganization’s goal is to improve Florida’s national and international reputation as a welcoming and inclusive place to live, work and visit.

On Tuesday, May 13th join Miami Dade Gay & Lesbian Chamber of Commerce and Equality Florida for an “Equal-ity Means Business Round-table” luncheon at Jungle Island. The panel will feature a ground-breaking dialogue about how practices that fos-ter inclusion and diversity in the workplace can transform and strengthen our economy.

For further information, please contact Stratton Pollitzer, Equality Florida [email protected] 954.682.6094 MDGLCC NON-PROFIT MEMBER

Equality Means Good Business WWW.EQUALITYMEANSBUSINESS.ORG

(A PROJECT OF EQUALITY FLORIDA INSTITUTE)

EQUALITY MEANS BUSINESS

ROUNDTABLE

TUESDAY

MAY 13

MDGLCC’s Upcoming Events 2ND QUARTER 2014APRIL / MAY / JUNE

Go to GAYBIZMIAMI.COM for updates and details

Corporations have long understood that pro-equality policies are good for business, and the numbers are irrefutable. The more successful a business is in the United States, the more likely it is to embrace equality.

This is why a grow-ing coalition of 15 of Florida’s largest em-ployers is now actively pushing state lawmak-ers to ban anti-LGBT discrimination state-wide, including Florida Blue, Wells Fargo, Winn Dixie Stores, Disney, CSX and others.

At this historic moment in the LGBT civil rights movement, Florida is on the front line of Southern states in achieving LGBT equality, and the business community is helping to lead the way.

“Maximizing your Membership Benefits” Networking Breakfast (monthly)

“Leveraging gaybizmiami.com to attract new customers & build your brand” (monthly)

GALLA Luncheons (or) Networker Mixer (monthly)

Big Networking Luncheon & Expo (bimonthly)

Spotlight Mega Mixer (bimonthly)

Gay & Lesbian Tour of South Beach (monthly)

Support Our Cultural Arts Members (quarterly)

Educational Seminar (quarterly)

Women’s Empowerment Luncheon (quarterly)

Gala Awards Celebration (yearly)


Tell us a bit about yourself. Have you

always lived in Miami?It is always interesting to try to tell a “bit” about myself. I am known to be slightly loquacious with an enormous amount of energy so I will try to focus on a “bit”. Seriously, I have been a life partner with Alice, the love of my life, for the last

31 years and as of March 20, 2014 I am now her spouse. I am mother to our three sons, David, Matthew and Lance who are wonderful and successful young men in loving and committed relationships with Sean, Terry and Traci. I am grandmother to Tanner, Tristan, Bethany and Carolyn. I have recently become the favorite play toy of our 5-month-old toy poodle puppy, Maggie, and am aspiring to convince her that I am the alpha in this relationship. My greatest joys are the times I spend with my family. I am a Real Estate Broker and own South Beach Boutique Realty on Lincoln Road. I am a Jewish woman, a lesbian, an activist in Miami Beach, an advocate for health care justice and marriage equality, an employer, and a boater.

To answer the second part of your question, I have not always lived in Miami Beach. I love this city and chose to make it my home. I have held Florida residency for over 13 years. Originally from Ohio where I still vacation occasionally with my family, my heart, my energy, my business and my activism are firmly based in Miami Beach. I am a member of many community organizations including SaveDade, Equality Florida, Lambda Legal, Miami-Dade Gay and Lesbian Chamber of Commerce and the Miami Beach Chamber of Commerce (Executive Board) as well as Miami Beach United and Miami Design Preservation League.

The theme of this quarter’s CLARITY is PRIDE. What does PRIDE represent to you?

PRIDE is not just a weekend or a festival. PRIDE is a state of mind and a self-concept that defines our satisfaction in our abilities, accomplishments and equality. In answering the first question I listed many roles and accomplishments and

An Interview with Sherry Roberts A CORPORATE MEMBER


no single one of these defines me. The essence of any person should be the sum total of attributes, values and contributions. Members of the LGBT community, just as many other minority groups have been marginalized, judged and discriminated against based only on the one attribute, their orientation. PRIDE is our community’s collective and public statement that rejects the prejudice and oppression. PRIDE highlights our diversity and accomplishments as members of our community.

You and your partner Alice are one of the “Legacy Couples” in the Miami Beach Gay

Pride Parade. Please tell us about that and, about what makes you proud to be part of this important community of couples?Alice and I got together when her sons were 8 and 13 and my son was 12. We were both business owners, very involved mothers and interested in the women’s movement. As we look back we now see that we were pioneers but at the time we were just doing what our children, community and businesses needed. We were open in our relationship and our sons called us “The Moms” recognizing that were co-parents long before it was vogue to have two mommies. We blended our family through puberty, driver training, band practice, sports, colleges, graduate schools, and two weddings. We are now very excited to be involved in the plans for another wedding. Next year, our son David will be marrying his partner of 7 years, Sean in New York.

And we are thrilled to this year to participate not only as a legacy couple but also as newlyweds.

We have been sponsors and participants of PRIDE since the beginning and were astounded at the thousands of people who lined Ocean Drive and we were particularly moved by the young women who told us that they did not know other women who had been in a long-term relationship. How very humbling to be role models and how thrilling for it to be other lesbian couples.

I am currently actively supporting the organizations and courageous couples who are fighting in court for marriage equality in Florida.

You have run for political office in Miami Beach. What is it about community service that inspires you?

I love Miami Beach for the vibrant culture, beautiful beaches, and diversity of residents, business opportunities and quality of life for families. I have a successful business in Miami Beach and have reaped many benefits because the past leaders had a vision and worked for Miami Beach. I have a vision of Miami Beach that thrives with a balance of prosperous businesses and an exception-al quality of life for residents while preserving our history. I believe in giving back and paving the way forward. I have had leadership positions, served on Miami Beach Committees and Boards and understand the complex issues facing the city. Also I have a view of the world that is shaped by my experiences including being a small businesswoman and an open lesbian. I believe that the city is richer when the leaders bring business skills and an apprecia-tion of diversity. I work to be one of those leaders.

Thank you for the opportunity to share my perspective on PRIDE and for recognizing Alice and me as a legacy couple.

You have a history of supporting the LGBT community. What makes MDLGCC worthy

of that support?I believe in the power of the free market and we in the LGBT community represent a powerful market share. Businesses are the lifeblood of our Miami Beach and the creativity and entrepre-neurship of our membership keeps this organization vibrant and exciting. Also advocacy is based on a belief that there needs to be special attention to leveling the playing field. For any movement to move out of the fringes and into the mainstream it requires the support of it own members. Our diversity is not always visible and it has not always been beneficial or comfortable to be out. MDLGCC provides members with the benefits. IT educates mem-bers about the services that are available by other members and promotes to the general public our collective presence and voice.

South Beach Boutique Realty www.southbeachboutiquerealty.com MDGLCC CORPORATE MEMBER

Last summer, the Supreme Court overturned the federal law that limited marriage to a man and a woman (Defense of Marriage Act), creating a civil rights victory for same-sex couples by giving them the same benefits that heterosexual couples receive.

Now, as the first tax year since DOMA’s repeal passes, we look forward to 2014 financial and tax planning for same-sex couples and the prospect of recognition at the Florida state level.

Karl Schwartz CPA, CFP®Member of Miami-Dade Gay & Lesbian Chamber of [email protected] Brickell Avenue, Suite 2350Miami, Florida 33131

WhAt You ShouLD KnoW About SAMe-Sex FinAnCiAL PLAnninG

Hewins Financial Advisors, LLC ( “Hewins”) is an investment adviser registered with the Securities and Exchange Commission under the Investment Advisers Act of 1940. The information provided by any third-party resource is not owned or controlled by Hewins, and Hewins does not guarantee the accuracy or reliability of any such information. Citations to any third-party resource are provided as a courtesy for reference only and are not intended to be, and do not act as, an endorsement by Hewins of third party or any of its content or use of its content. The standard information provided in this article is for general educational purposes only and should not be construed as, or used as a substitute for, financial, investment, or other professional advice. If you have questions regarding your financial situation you should consult your financial planner, investment advisor, attorney or other professional. A copy of Hewins’ current ADV Part 2A discussing Hewins’ investment advisory and financial planning services and fees is available for review upon request or at www.adviserinfo.sec.gov. Visual Interactive Planning is a trademark of ScenarioNow, Inc.1NCLR, “Case Summary & History: Pareto v. Ruvin,” National Center For Lesbian Rights, http://www.nclrights.org/cases-and-policy/cases-and-advocacy/pareto_v_ruvin/, accessed March 2014.2Linda Stern, “Stern Advice,” Reuters, June 20, 2013, http://www.reuters.com/article/2013/06/20/us-column-stern-advice-idUSBRE95J14420130620, accessed March 2014.3Gary J. Gates and Abigail M. Cooke, “Florida Census Snapshot: 2010,” The Williams Institute, UCLA School of Law, http://williamsinstitute.law.ucla.edu/wp-content/uploads/Census2010Snapshot_Florida_v2.pdf, accessed March 2014.4Tom Jensen et al., “Florida Survey Results: January 16-21, 2014,” Public Policy Polling (January 2014), Public Policy Polling, http://www.publicpolicypolling.com/pdf/2014/PPP_Release_FL_122.pdf, accessed March 2014.)

Consider your options. See the opportunities through Visual interactive Planning™

ReCoGnition At the StAte LeVeL

2008Anti-marriage constitutional amendment excludes same-sex couples from marriage or attaining legal family status.

21 January 21, 2014 – Six same-sex couples filed a lawsuit in Florida state court. Pareto v. Ruvin, seeking same-sex couples’ right to marry.1

beneFitS FRoM ReCoGnition

>1,100New spousal benefits available to married same-sex couples in states that recognizefederal marriage.2

You CAn Get StARteD toDAY:3 Consider whether amending the last three years’ federal income tax returns and filing jointly would be beneficial3 Review how federal and potential state recognition affects estate plans3 Explore how changes in liquidity may alter your investment strategies

48,496 2010 Census:

Same-sex couples living

in Florida3

47% plurality

Percentage of Florida voters

in support of same-sex

marriage4


Our group is just a small representation of people that take great PRIDE in the work they do to impact others. There are many other leaders and great LGBTQ community organizations that exist in our community. While this group currently consists of people of diverse cultures and background plus some diversity in gender identity it is not representative of the entire spectrum. We look forward to welcoming more diversity as composition of leadership in our organizations change over time.

Last October the group participated in a transformative day followed by bi-monthly retreats facilitated by Thea Sommer, principal of the consulting firm Beyond Ten. These sessions helped us realize the potential we have as a unified team working to address issues of importance within our community. Through the generosity of an anonymous donor, we

have been meeting monthly to strengthen the collaborative voice of our community for the betterment of the lives of LGBTQ people in South Florida and beyond.

In our first eight months, members of our group have worked together on programs such as assisting LGBTQ homeless youth, organizing a rally on the day of the U.S. Supreme Court’s landmark decisions overturning DOMA and California’s Proposition 8, and strategizing to mobilize community

support for the county commission on adding “gender identity and gender expression” to Miami-Dade County’s non-discrimination policy. We are excited and inspired by what we can accomplish in the months and years to come.

LGBTQ Leaders Collaborate for COMMUNITY ADVANCEMENTFor several years, some Executive Directors and other leaders of a variety of organizations serving the LGBTQ community in Miami-Dade County have met on a monthly basis with four core goals: to update each other on the activities of their respective organizations, to strengthen the lines of communication between our organizations, to avoid scheduling conflicts of each other’s events, and to talk about issues impacting the LGBTQ community.

“ Torres Protection Group has been a member and proud supporter of the MDGLCC for a short period, but has already benefitted from the support offered by the amazing chamber team. We have been associated with different chambers in the past, but have yet to experience the sense of community offered by the MDGLCC. I’m confident our relationship with the chamber will continue to grow, and I would encourage any discerning business owner to support the MDGLCC.”

— Rafael Torres, President, Torres Protection Group www.torresprotectiongroup.com MDGLCC CORPORATE MEMBER

HOTBOX

FROM THE COVER

Member Testimonial

Saint Martha – YamahaPaul Posnak, Founding Artistic Director

Get Ready For The2014-15 Season!

Emmet Cohen Jazz Quartet Rumbarroco

Axiom Brass QuintetBasham / Harbaugh / Posnak Trio

Elizabeth Caballero

Tickets available at SaintMartha.tix.com,Parish office, at the door or call

1-800-595-4849Questions? Call 305-458-0111 or 305-751-0005

or email [email protected]


MIAMI-DADE GAY & LESBIAN CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

Clarity Business Magazine is a quarterly publication of the MDGLCC. Each issue has a theme, as well as subsequent information relevant to current interests and activities. Content is provided by members with the unique perspective of the community.

Acceptance of articles is based on availability.

The Voice of LGBT Business & its Allies in Miami-Dade

1130 Washington Avenue 1st Floor North Miami Beach, FL 33139

T: 305.673.4440 F: 305.673.8883 [email protected] www.gaybizmiami.com

Steven N. Adkins President / CEO

Jorge Richa Marketing + Programming Director

Michael Aller Board Member

Marty Davis Board Member

George Neary Board Member

Scott Bader Membership Chair + Web Master

Organizational Listing MDGLCC

Joe Robertson, EDITOR Clarity Business Magazine & ClarityMag.com [email protected]

Tana Martin Llinás, CREATIVE DIRECTOR

Pho

to b

y M

arta

Nei

ra

Support Our Members Always

As a community chamber (versus a civic chamber), we encour-age both our gay and gay-friendly family to support those who support us. One of the benefits of membership in MDGLCC is the knowledge that a $6 billion local LGBT market searches our roster of members first when making purchase decisions about goods and services. With a list of over 500 companies compris-ing our membership, more likely than not you will find what you are looking for.

As corporate America looks to diversify its revenue stream, the LGBT market is increasingly being looked to for growth. The best way we can make the greatest impact is to speak with our pocketbooks and use Chamber Members whenever possible.

PHOTOGRAPHER:

Juan Saco Mironoff, Miami Gay Blog, www.Miami-Gay-Blog.com

FROM LEFT TO RIGHT: Victor Diaz-Herman (Pridelines Youth Services), Ivan Cano (Miami Beach Gay Pride), Robert Loupo (Safe Schools of South Florida), Robin Schwartz (Aqua Foundation for Women), Catherine Penrod (Switchboard of Miami), Michael Bath (National Gay & Lesbian Task Force), Rick Hill (for Stratton Pollitzer - Equality Florida), Cindy Brown (Miami Beach Botanical Garden), Herb Sosa (Unity Coalition|Coalición Unida), Tony Lima (SAVE Dade), Steve Adkins (Miami-Dade Gay & Lesbian Chamber of Commerce/LGBT Visitor Center), Thea Sommer (Beyond Ten), Carla Silva (The Alliance for LGBTQ Youth), Jorge Richa (Miami-Dade Gay & Lesbian Chamber of Commerce/LGBT Visitor Center), Rick Siclari (Care Resource). Not pictured: Daniel Tilley (American Civil Liberties Union of Florida)

Shot on location at the Miami Beach Botanical Garden

HOTBOX COVER STORY: Pride Powerhouse

LOOKING FOR PROFESSIONAL SPACE?You can rent space for events, meetings, etc.

at your Chamber’s office!CALL LORI AT 305-397-8914

You run your business with respect for everyone. That’s how we run ours too.

© 2014 Regions Bank.

Visit regions.com/socialresponsibilityPut People First | Do What Is Right | Focus On Your Customer | Reach Higher | Enjoy Life

At Regions, we are committed to being inclusive of all individuals in the

communities we serve. We take pride in helping all kinds of business

owners achieve their goals and grow their businesses. After all, it’s

our individuality that makes each of us unique. And being unique is

something we believe makes life better.

Regions Bank proudly supports the Miami-Dade Gay and Lesbian

Chamber of Commerce and its members.

Documents

Pride Issue - Microsoft · of Havi Schanz. Havi was born in Argentina, lives in Miami Beach and has almost 30 years combined experience as an artist, architect, interior and graphic