Naugle “Apologizes” For Gay Gaffe
Jim Naugle pulled a gay bait and switch yesterday in Fort Lauderdale.
The Mayor – who angered his queer constituents after proposing robo-toilets to curb gay public sex – seemed poised to apologize for his homophobic remarks, but only made matters worse when he called for “responsible homosexuals” to join his crusade against cruising: “I’m asking the homosexual community to join with me, to cease this activity for the benefit of the children and the parents of the community.” As we’ve mentioned, Naugle refuses to use the word “gay” because he doesn’t believe gay people can be “happy”. The contentious politico also apologized to for not acting sooner.
There certainly aren’t many happy homos in Fort Lauderdale. The Flush Naugle campaign picked up even more steam yesterday. And got even more vocal advocates. Deputy mayor Carlton Moore took a stand against his superior, telling angry voters, “We, as a community, must unite. We must unite against all hatred.”
Meanwhile, gay group Unite are calling for Naugle to resign and refer to him as “an embarrassment”. Honestly, nearly everything about this story’s embarrassing.
I hope he used the toilet tissue I sent him to wipe his ass, and then his mouth!
Hello,
I’m writing from The Greater Fort Lauderdale Convention & Visitors Bureau.
I wish to reassure you and your readers that Greater Fort Lauderdale is a warmly welcoming destination to all travelers. We stand united and proud that our destination has long been enjoyed by gay visitors and supported by the local gay community.
It is important for you to know that the long-standing and positive reputation in the hospitality industry, and the actions of our community, speak far louder than the words of any one individual. Our tourism industry long ago rolled out the Rainbow Carpet and we are committed to providing SUNsational Service to all visitors—straight and gay. Our community is very proud of the diversity of our residents and our visitors.
The Greater Fort Lauderdale Convention & Visitors Bureau has aggressively promoted the destination to the gay travel market for more than ten years and will continue to do so. As home to the International Gay and Lesbian Travel Association, and with more than 100 gay-owned establishments including 30 gay guesthouses, plus restaurants and bars and the second largest Metropolitan Community Church, we invite your readers to personally come and experience our diversity.
We look forward to welcoming readers of this blog to our sunny beaches and appreciate your continued support of Greater Fort Lauderdale.
Thank you.
Nicki E. Grossman
President
Greater Fort Lauderdale Convention & Visitors Bureau