OutSFL Vol. 2, Issue 17

APRIL 25, 2024 VOL. 2 • ISSUE 17 OUR PAGES YOUR VOICE VISIT US ONLINE AT OUTSFL.COM OUTSFL @OUTSFL GIFTED TONGUES STORY BY MARY RASURA | STARTS ON PAGE 12 Trey Rhone Troy Benjamin Arnaldo Batista Caridad Moro-Gronlier Jubi Arriola-Headley Rani Ruado OUTSFL SPOTLIGHTS SIX POETS FOR NATIONAL POETRY MONTH

2 • 4.25.2024 COVER: Main photo: Troy Benjamin, photo by Chantal Lawrie. Inset photos from top to bottom: Trey Rhone, photo courtesy of Trey Rhone; Arnaldo Batista, photo courtesy of Arnaldo Batista; Caridad Moro-Gronlier, photo by O, Miami; Jubi Arriola-Headley, photo by Beowulf Sheehan; Rani Ruado, photo courtesy of Rani Ruado. April 25, 2024 • Volume 2• Issue 17 2520 N. Dixie Highway • Wilton Manors, FL 33305 OutSFL newspaper is published on a weekly schedule. You should not presume the sexual orientation or gender identity of any featured individuals solely based on their names, appearance, or inclusion within this publication. Any opinions shared within stories, columns, graphics, or letters to the editor should not be assumed to represent the opinions of OutSFL, its Publisher, or its co-founder. Any stories or content, either in print or online, and also including any articles that are featured in conjunction with any media partners, are protected under federal copyright and intellectual property laws, and this ownership is carefully and jealously guarded by this media group. Nothing that is published may be reprinted, either in whole or in part, without first receiving written consent from the Publisher, Jason Parsley. OutSFL is owned by Jason Parsley and Justin Wyse, and is represented legally by Russell Cormican. As a private corporation, OutSFL reserves the right to enforce its own standards regarding the suitability of advertising copy, illustrations, and photographs. Copyright © 2024 J&J Media Group. PUBLISHER Jason Parsley [email protected] CEO Justin Wyse [email protected] EDITORIAL ASSISTANT TO THE EDITOR Kimberly Swan ART DIRECTOR Julie Palmer GRAPHIC DESIGNERS Kyle Willis • Craig Tuggle GRAPHIC DESIGN CONSULTANT Brendon Lies ARTS & CULTURE EDITOR Rick Karlin [email protected] COMMUNITY EDITOR John Hayden [email protected] PHOTOGRAPHERS J.R. Davis • Carina Mask COLUMNISTS Brian McNaught • Jesse Monteagudo Sabrina Haake • Fred Fejes John Porter • Kelly Ghweinem SPECIAL TO OUTSFL Steve Rothaus • J.W. Arnold CORRESPONDENTS John McDonald • Sean Conklin Deon Jefferson • Aurora Dominguez Denise Brown • Mary Rasura Terri Schlichenmeyer • Gregg Shapiro Kennedy McKinney • Michael Anguille Robert DeDominic • Aaron Kinchen Tessa Becker • Christopher Flores PUBLISHING CONSULTANT Pier Angelo SALES & MARKETING For ad placement, call 954-514-7095 SALES MANAGERS Edwin Neimann [email protected] Silvio Carvana [email protected] Andrew LaRochelle [email protected] DISTRIBUTION SERVICES Richie Wilson • Johnathan Rey • Tyler Brayton NATIONAL ADVERTISING Rivendell Media 212-242-6863 Spot an error? Let us know at [email protected] website nearly inoperable. FlockFest is also a victim. Organizers accuse him of creating media materials that look similar to their event and selling tickets. It’s almost impossible for people to tell the difference and even harder for FlockFest to keep up. “We shut down one site, he opens another,” one member of FlockFest told OutSFL. Eventually, people will show up with bogus passes for the beach party and, presumably, Jungwirth will have the money while continuing to lurk in the shadows. MAJOR PAIN, MINOR CRIME Despite being a nuisance, Jungwirth isn’t, and hasn’t been, charged with any felonies. His current charge is a misdemeanor. If he skips court dates or violates restraining orders, charges could be bumped up. The most serious crime Jungwirth has been investigated for was threatening a Pulse-like massacre in Wilton Manors. Investigators held him as long as they could but eventually released him dropping all charges, citing a lack of evidence. ARRAIGNMENT DATE SET FOR CRAIG JUNGWIRTH A n arraignment date has been set for Craig Jungwirth on a misdemeanor stalking charge. After spending nearly a week in an Okeechobee County, jail he bonded out April 15, where he made his way to the Wilton Manors area. Allegedly, he has since left the area. He is set to be in a Fort Lauderdale courtroom on May 13 at 1:30 p.m. People can watch on Zoom. In a separate case a hearing to continue or end an existing restraining order was set for Thursday, April 25. Of course, for any of this to be effective, he needs to show up to court. Jungwirth’s past history says there’s a good chance that won’t happen voluntarily. Jungwirth has been deft at avoiding people trying to serve him with civil papers, and it appears he has no regard for the criminal charge of stalking. Evidence shows he almost immediately began harassing victims as soon as he left Okeechobee County’s jail. A local barber, who claims years of harassment by Jungwirth, had his business’s booking NEWS • HIGHLIGHT John Hayden A past mugshot of Craig Jungwirth. Photo courtesy of Seminole County Sheriff’s Office. CAN’T WAIT FOR PRINT? FOLLOW US ONLINE. OUTSFL.COM Q Stitches Together Her Post ‘Drag Race’ Life & Looks Back On A Stunning Run JUNGWIRTH HAS BEEN DEFT AT AVOIDING PEOPLE TRYING TO SERVE HIM WITH CIVIL PAPERS, AND IT APPEARS HE HAS NO REGARD FOR THE CRIMINAL CHARGE OF STALKING.

4.25.2024 • 3 In Greater Fort Lauderdale, we’re excited about welcoming everyone under the sun and providing access for all, from beach wheelchairs and accessible pathways to the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Program at FLL airport. Learn more about local resources and plan your trip at VisitLauderdale.com/Accessibility. Welcome to accessibility for everyone

4 • 4.25.2024 LAST WEEK'S COVER FROM THE NEWSROOM - TAYLOR SWIFT DURING HER RECENT CONCERT IN CHICAGO SCAN HERE TO VIEW THE ISSUE ONLINE OUT AND ABOUT PHOTO OF THE WEEK Husbands and 39 years together, Ric Katz, Funding Arts Broward member, community activist, and SAVE 1992 Member of the Year with husband of 39 years, Steve Rothaus, who pioneered mainstream news coverage of LGBTQ issues, attending the Latino’s Salud Broward Gala. Photo by JR Davis

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6 • 4.25.2024 LGBTQUOTABLE QUOTE OF THE WEEK Photo by President.gov.ua, via Wikimedia Commons. “While I have never denied my sexuality, I haven’t publicly acknowledged it either, until now. So let me be clear: I’m proud to be gay, and I consider being gay among the greatest gifts God has given me.” - TIM COOK, APPLE’S CEO, SAID IN 2014 OUTFAU'S COVER FROM THE NEWSROOM - TAYLOR SWIFT DURING HER RECENT CONCERT IN CHICAGO SCAN HERE TO VIEW THE ISSUE ONLINE SAT APRIL 27 RALPHI ROSARIO MUSIC BY TRUE BLUE MONDAYS JOCKSTRAP NIGHT TUESDAYS CODE HANKY NIGHT WEDNESDAYS UNDERWEAR NIGHT THURSDAYS CIGAR NIGHT THURSDAYS HARNESS NIGHT SUNDAYS LET’S HAVE A KIKI (954) 533-8248 eaglebarwm.com 2209 Wilton Drive Wilton Manors FL 33305

4.25.2024 • 7 Waterfront Landing • 109 S Flager Dr. West Palm Beach Jan 1 - Mar 1 $40 | Mar 2 - May 1 $45 | May 2 - Jun 8 $50 JUNE 8 6:30p Pride 5K www.NightRunnersWPB.com $40 $45 $50 R u n / W alk 2 0 2 4 Charity Partner: 4th Annual Limited Edition Shirt | Finisher Medal | Awards (Male, Female, & Non-Binary)

8 • 4.25.2024 General & Cosmetic Dentistry 954-565-7666 Always Plenty of Free Parking • Conveniently Located on Wilton Drive Dr. David K. Warner, DDS, FAGD State of the Art Facilities • Most Insurance Plans Accepted 1946 Wilton Drive Wilton Manors • FL 33305 www.IslandCitySmiles.com Dr. Stephen T. Scoglio, DMD Your smile should leave a great impression. Comprehensive Exam, Digital X-Rays & Cleaning* $69 New Patients ($312 Value) *In the absense of gum disease. Not applicable to insurance benefits. Welcoming By Kennedy McKinney OUT ABROAD ‘DRAG RACE’ CROWNS FIRST TAIWANESE-AMERICAN QUEEN ASIA “RuPaul’s Drag Race” crowned Nymphia Wind, the show’s first Taiwanese-American drag queen. According to NBC News, Wind is known for her obsession with the color yellow and for her couture-like design talent. “All I said to myself was, I’m here to break the Asian curse. I am not going to be out early on,” said Wind in her exit-interview on “Whatcha Packin’.” She expressed that she felt she had a responsibility to do well in the competition for the Asian American community. Wind grew up in between Taipei, Taiwan, and Hong Kong. In 2022, she moved to Brooklyn, NY. “I just wanted to come here and show a rich, rich Asian culture in my drag.” Nymphia Wind. Photo courtesy of Wold of Wonder/MTV. WOMEN-ONLY APP SUED BY TRANS WOMAN AUSTRALIA S all Grover, the founder of the women-only social networking app, Giggle for Girls, is being sued after denying services to a trans woman. Grover says she didn’t think twice about denying Roxanne Tickle, a transgender woman, according to Al Jazeera. “It did not register, as we get men trying to enter all the time. Mr. Tickle [sic] passed our AI facial recognition test, which was deliberately set at 94% accuracy, meaning that some men will get through,” said Grover. “The rest we remove manually.” When Tickle contacted Grover about being removed, she hung up on Tickle. According to Al Jazeera, Grover refuses to refer to transgender women as women and has purposely made her app open to cisgender women only. Tickle argues that she is legally entitled to use services meant for women and is relying on Australia’s Anti-Discrimination Act and a 2013 amendment to show that she has been discriminated against on the basis of gender identity. A judge is expected to hand down his decision in this matter in the next three to six months. This is a highly watched decision as it will have to decide sex and gender and what it means to be a woman in Australia. Sall Grover. Photo by Puck1234, via Wikimedia Commons. LAWSUIT CLAIMS GRINDR SHARED USERS’ HIV STATUS EUROPE Hundreds of users allege that Grindr, which claims to be the world’s largest dating app for LGBTQ people, has shared highly sensitive personal information, including their HIV status, with advertising companies. According to The Guardian, the law firm Austen Hays is set to file a claim in London’s high court alleging that the U.S. owner of the app breached British data protection laws. “Our clients have experienced significant distress over their highly sensitive and private information being shared without their consent, and many have suffered feelings of fear, embarrassment, and anxiety as a result,” said Chaya Hanoomanjee, managing director of Austen Hays, The Guardian reported. Six hundred and seventy people have signed up to the claim. Photo via Grindr, Facebook. THE RAINBOW REVOLUTION AROUND THE WORLD

4.25.2024 • 9 facebook.com/OutSFL @out_sfl @outsfl Follow Us on Social Media & Stay Connected MIX & MINGLE JOIN US EVERY FRIDAY @ 6:30!! Complimentary beverage and snack Live entertainment every 2nd friday of each month "Mix and Mingle Grand Opening and Afterparty on April 26th" CALL ME FOR A FREE TOUR 1414 on NE 26th Street, Wilton Manors, FL For availability contact: [email protected] Event & Meeting Space: 3,000+ sq feet available for your next gathering, live event or entertainment needs. www.jfoy.org Booking now for spring/summer/fall events. (954) 594-3473 “please leave a message” NEW LOCATION

10 • 4.25.2024 Our Services: • Roof Repair • Roof Replacement • Preventative Maintenance • Inspections FREE Quote 954-737-3520 Tile Shingle Metal In need of a repair or replacement? Contact our team Since 2002 Locally Owned Woman-Owned Owens Corning Platinum Preferred We are proudly MARY RASURA NAMED FIRST RECIPIENT OF NORM KENT LGBTQ NEWSMAKER FUND Mary Rasura, editor of OutFAU, will be the first recipient of the Norm Kent LGBTQ Newsmaker Fund. The $750 scholarship also includes an internship with OutSFL. Rasura was the founding editor of OutFAU when it launched in January. OutFAU is OutSFL’s supplemental publication for the queer community on the campus of Florida Atlantic University. “I am very honored to receive this scholarship,” Rasura said. “Starting OutFAU this year has been challenging and exciting. I’m thankful for the support to consider pursuing my education.” The monthly newspaper is currently, as far as we can tell, one of its kind in the country on a university campus. The publication will go on hiatus after its May issue, resuming once the Fall semester starts. OutFAU recently won third place in the Apple awards at the College Media Association’s annual awards. The Norm Kent LGBTQ Newsmaker Fund is administered by the Our Fund Foundation and was launched in memory of Kent, who died in April 2023. “Norm Kent’s voice and journalistic activism are especially missed in our current fight with anti-LGBTQ forces,” said David Jobin, CEO of Our Fund. “To have a fund that helps find and elevate future generations of LGBTQ journalists is a fitting legacy to Norm for all that he fought for on our behalf.” Kent was the co-founder and publisher of South Florida Gay News and before that he had founded Express Gay News. Kent was also a noted criminal defense attorney. He dedicated his life to standing up for the LGBTQ community, the First Amendment, and marijuana legalization. The fund is currently accepting donations to make sure the scholarship can continue for years to come. “Launching a newspaper is no easy feat in this day and age, so Mary deserves lots of kudos. Being in charge of a publication comes with great responsibility, and Mary has faced both praise and criticism for her work. She’s taken it all in stride and has grown from it. I know it’s been quite a learning experience for her,” said OutSFL Publisher Jason Parsley. “Meanwhile, OutFAU has given our readers a little insight into campus life under Gov. Ron DeSantis’ oppressive administration. We hope to keep it going for as long as possible.” Staff FROM THE NEWSROOM Photo courtesy of Mary Rasura. TO MAKE A DONATION TO THE NORM KENT LGBTQ NEWSMAKER FUND GO TO OUR-FUND.ORG/NORMKENTFUND

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12 • 4.25.2024 6 QUEER POETS FEATURE S ince 1996, April has marked National Poetry Month, an initiative launched by the Academy of American Poets. For this year’s Poetry Month, we’d like to introduce you to six queer South Florida poets. Poetry has always been a powerful medium for exploring identity, challenging societal norms, and giving voice to marginalized experiences. These poets have explored themes ranging from death, love, vulnerability, pop culture, and water. Join us as we delve into the rich and diverse world of queer South Florida poetry — celebrating the artistry, creativity, and resilience of these six remarkable poets. Mary Rasura FOR NATIONAL POETRY MONTH, OUTSFL PROFILES THESE LOCAL BARDS

4.25.2024 • 13 CONTINUE READING ON NEXT PAGE ⊲ CARIDAD MORO-GRONLIER POET LAUREATE OF MIAMI-DADE Caridad Moro-Gronlier was named Poet Laureate of MiamiDade County on April 1, the first day of National Poetry Month. “I feel honored and grateful for the post, and I look forward to bringing more poetry to, for and from our community,” Moro-Gronlier said. Her responsibilities will include public readings, community projects, and outreach. Her collection of poems “Tortillera” invokes the reclamation of the word tortillera, which means lesbian in Spanish and is considered a slur in some Cuban-American households. “So I realized in order to tackle my own preconceived notions regarding that word in the homophobic testament that it was, I was just going to wear the T-shirt,” Moro-Gronlier said. “You know what I mean? I was going to claim the word, I was going to reframe it, and as a result, do away with the shame associated with the word.” Moro-Gronlier grew up in Los Angeles before moving to Miami when she was nine. She reflects on the queerness of her childhood, spending time at backyard parties with her family instead of going to slumber parties with her peers. She said that when she went to college, the world opened its doors for her and she started investigating her life experiences. “My background, growing up, what were the expectations? I was the firstborn daughter to Cuban immigrants, there were a lot of expectations,” Moro-Gronlier said. “But within those expectations, there wasn’t a lot of freedom. I was expected to go to college and get a nice career, but the underlying expectation was that I would, of course, marry, have children, live the traditional heterosexual paradigm which I did, but then rejected. So I did what they wanted until I realized that pattern just did not, could not, contain me. So you know, I smashed it and built another one.” Photo by Beowulf Sheehan. Photo by Chantal Lawrie. JUBI ARRIOLA-HEADLEY EXPLORING MANHOOD, VULNERABILITY & JOY B lack. Queer. Kinky. Kilted. That’s how Jubi Arriola-Headley describes himself in his Instagram bio. He’s a nationally recognized poet, first generation American, and published author. Some themes Arriola-Headley explores through his poetry are manhood, vulnerability, and joy. “When you are othered in the world, meaning you are not necessarily a white heterosexual male, one of the traps that we get caught in is that people expect us — and there’s a lot of it, to be fair — to talk about our trauma and the difficulties we have in the world,” Arriola-Headley said. “And that’s valid and fair and necessary, but also we’re living, breathing humans who experience pleasure and joy. We like the taste of chocolate. We like to have orgasms. We like to feel the sun on our skin.” Arriola-Headley credits the poem “Sorrow Is Not My Name” by Ross Gay for inspiring him to rethink the themes he is willing to give time and space to in his writing. “Yes, I will absolutely write about the challenges of being black and being queer and being fat, etcetera,” Arriola-Headley said. “But I’ll also write about how it feels to lay in the sun. Or how it feels like to wear a kilt, or how I enjoy Chunky Monkey ice cream. I mean, all of those are valid things to write about, and I just needed to learn to give myself permission for the joy as well as the pain.” Arriola-Headley recently published his second poetry collection, “Bound.” It’s available for order from Persea Books.

14 • 4.25.2024 RANI RUADO CONNECTING THROUGH POETRY WITH READERS R ani Ruado likes his poetry short and sweet. “I appreciate shorter works,” Ruado said. “With poetry, I feel like brevity is such an important skill to have — no offense to people who could write novels or book length essays, but that isn’t really my style.” He graduated from the Florida International University MFA program in 2023. A theme he frequently explores throughout his work is death. “Like Emily Dickinson, almost. In addition to that, I write about the opposite of death too, like trying to survive and sort of the ways that we distract ourselves or make do with what we have, especially during the crazy times that we’re living in,” Ruado said. “And then I write a lot about identity as well, trying to be an open book to people who might find my work so that they can learn a little bit more about me and that I can be a beacon to someone who goes through similar things or feels similarly about certain things.” Mental health issues, queer identities, feelings of inferiority or confusion in one’s life path are experiences that Ruado hopes his readers can feel connected to him through. Ruado said that he began seriously pursuing writing in undergrad after connecting with mentors and professors in creative writing classes. Looking back at his life, he can remember his early connections with poetry. “So it’s interesting, because I’m sure writers say this all the time, but they didn’t realize that they were a poet or a writer, even though they’ve been writing throughout their entire life. And I feel that because I look back, and I see I would always be writing little stories in class, or I would be scribbling in the margins of my math notebook which I now realize were probably poems that were trying to form.” ARNALDO BATISTA EXPLORING QUEER IDENTITY A rnaldo Batista recently defended his master’s thesis for the Florida International University MFA program, with his thesis topic being focused on “queer identity and love.” “Yeah, it was gonna be something else because I write a lot about being Brazilian and how I had to grow up with a machismo kind of ideology,” Batista said. “But that’s still somehow made it through the book, and it’s just how it informs my idea of what love means.” Batista started writing when he was a teenager. He was very inspired by Sylvia Plath and attended Miami Arts Charter, where one of his teachers, Florida-based food critic and poet Jen Karetnick, encouraged him to continue working on his writing. His sister, who he calls his “soulmate,” was also a poet who encouraged him to join the FIU MFA program that they were able to go through together. Batista explores themes of water throughout his work, which he attributes to growing up in Miami and coming from a Brazilian family as a first generation American. He also explores what queer life is or what it could be. “I talk a lot about drag queens and gay bars and leather bars,” Batista said. “Just trying to bring it to the more mainstream kind of lens, because I feel like a lot of queer life is secret or secretive. One of my goals is to show people how beautiful it could be, you know?” ⊳ C ONTINUED FROM PREVIOUS PAGE Photo courtesy of Arnaldo Batista. Photo courtesy of Rani Ruado.

4.25.2024 • 15 TROY BENJAMIN COMBINING POETRY AND MODELING T roy Benjamin says that he finds writing therapeutic because the paper is not going to speak back. “The paper is not going to talk back to me,” Benjamin said. “It’s not going to tell me that I’m stupid. It’s not going to tell me that I’m wrong. The paper is just going to be there. And I can write whatever I want to, whether it makes sense, whether it looks good, whether it sounds good, or whatever I think good is, it doesn’t matter. I can just write anything that comes to mind and just spill it on the page.” Benjamin is a poet and model who has been working on projects that combine these two passions. “Modeling is a more visual medium and poetry is more auditory,” Benjamin said. “So I was like, ‘How can I merge these two together? Like, how can I give visuals but also give the message through sound?’ So I’ve been working with a vocal coach and vocal producer to have some recordings of the pieces that I’ve written and then create visuals that go along with them.” He finds himself exploring what confidence looks like through his writing. “I used to think confidence was just when you walk into a room and walk with pride and stride confidently, but I realized that confidence stems from actually trusting yourself. And there [are] a lot of situations in life that kind of teach you what that really means.” One of these situations for Benjamin was coming into his queer identity while growing up in a religious family. “It was hard because it’s family, so of course you never want to go against that,” Benjamin said. “But I was like, I’m not really going against family if I’m really going for myself, if that makes sense. Sometimes you do have to go against something that doesn’t work for you in order to stand up for yourself.” Photo courtesy of Trey Rhone. Photo by Chantal Lawrie. TREY RHONE EMBRACING THE OBSESSIONS WITH MUSIC & POP CULTURE T rey Rhone says one of his ongoing inspirations for poetry comes from pop culture. One of his published poems, “I Want to Shoot the Shit with Kurt Cobain Before We Pull the Trigger,” expresses a desire to connect with the musician while also exploring what suicidal ideation can look like. “I feel like pop culture is something that sticks with us because, one of my professors said that we always have our obsessions, and that’s what we bring into our writings, our obsessions, and you’ll constantly write about that for the rest of your life,” Rhone said. “And so music and pop culture is just really one of those obsessions for me, so that’s why I wrote about Kurt Cobain.” He is a poet and educator who came from Georgia to South Florida to attend the MFA program at Florida International University, which he graduated from in 2023. He completed his bachelor’s at Georgia Southern University. Rhone was originally an English major in undergrad, but after winning a prize for $500 for a poetry competition and encouragement from one of his mentors, he became a writing major. Rhone said that throughout undergrad, he wrote a lot of autobiographical works centered around his identity of being queer and black. “And my writing just kept on changing. My topics didn’t really change, I think it just became more queer focused,” Rhone said. “And then it became more central because I noticed that you can write about the body, you can write about sex, you can write about whatever, and it will still be accepted in the poetry world.”

16 • 4.25.2024 MIAMI BEACH PRIDE SHOWS FLORIDA IS STILL OPEN FOR BUSINESS I n Florida’s never ending culture wars, Miami Beach Pride is an outlier. The 2024 edition saw record attendance and sales, said Pride Board Chairman Bruce Horwich. “It was the best Pride ever,” Horwich said. “Our entertainment lineup was superb, the weather was fantastic, and people from all walks of life came out to show their support.” Miami Beach Pride’s successful showing came as a new report, conducted by the International Gay and Lesbian Travel Association (IGLTA) Foundation, found there are still considerable obstacles to LGBTQ tourism in the Sunshine State. Photo by JR Davis. NEWS • MIAMI The study, titled “State Policy Impact on LGBTQ Tourism,” found an astonishing 80% of respondents perceive Florida as somewhat or very unwelcoming. Furthermore, half of planners surveyed indicated hesitancy or outright refusal to book meetings in the state. IGLTA President/CEO John Tanzella said travel destinations worldwide should view the report as a cautionary tale. “While this report arose from the negative legislative actions in Florida, the takeaways are applicable globally, to any destination facing governmental challenges that impact its ability to attract LGBTQ+ travelers,” said Tanzella, in a prepared statement. Horwich told OutSFL that efforts from activist organizations to discourage LGBTQ travelers from visiting Florida is not a workable solution. “I don’t agree with the concept that people should stay away,” Horwich said. “I feel just the opposite. We need to rally our people and get them to vote. By staying away, [you’re] letting them win the battle.” Horwich pointed to actor Billy Porter as an example. Porter, the parade’s grand marshal, urged the LGBTQ community to come together to “fight the forces of evil that are trying to destroy us.” The “Pose” star made those comments while receiving the Key to the City from Commissioner Alex Fernandez. “His artistry, activism and unwavering commitment to equality inspire us,” said Fernandez. PORTER, THE PARADE’S GRAND MARSHAL, URGED THE LGBTQ COMMUNITY TO COME TOGETHER TO “FIGHT THE FORCES OF EVIL THAT ARE TRYING TO DESTROY US.” John McDonald IT’S LESBIAN VISIBILITY WEEK THESE LOCAL ORGS UPLIFT THE ‘L’ YEAR-ROUND A pril 22–28 is Lesbian Visibility Week: a celebration of queer women’s achievements and a call to action. Lesbians have remained perennially underrepresented and underserved, but this holiday and increased lesbian-focused programming in South Florida suggest progress. Founded in 2010, the OUR FUND FOUNDATION is a lifeline for South Florida nonprofits that serve the LGBTQ+ community. Under the leadership of President/CEO David Jobin since 2015, the Our Fund Foundation has fostered programming by and for queer women by awarding grants to queer woman-led and focused organizations, including Thinking Cap Theatre (TCT), Thou Art Woman (TAW)/ Black LGBTQ+ Liberation, Inc (Blinc), and Lesbian Thespians. TCT, a professional theatre company, prioritizes gender and sexual equality in main stage programming every season, ensuring that 50% of the plays produced are women or LGBTQ+ authored. In June 2019, with the Our Fund Foundation’s support, TCT piloted “I’m Coming: A Performance Project,” which partnered professional theatre artists with local queer women to help them transform their coming out stories into original plays for public performance. TCT will soon launch a reading salon for queer women, and “I’m Coming” will return in early 2025. Cast photo of “Pulp.” Photo by Matthew Tippins. TAW and BLINC are must-know queer woman-led organizations founded by visionaries Nik Harris and G Wright. Founded in 2014, TAW is an event series that honors and unites LGBTQ+ women through the visual and performing arts. TAW’s most recent open mic and performance event, “Love & Lust,” was a joyous, sold-out success. Blinc, founded in 2021, provides programming and guidance to the BIPOC LGBTQ+ community on health and wellness and financial literacy. LESBIAN THESPIANS, a community group led by Artistic Director Carol Wartenberg, has garnered a significant following with its eclectic programming, including notable plays, story slams, concerts, and tea dances. Catch their next production, “The Boxes We Keep,” in July. There’s also Ronnie Larsen’s WOMEN OF WILTON (WOW), which launched in August 2023 with a critically acclaimed run of the landmark lesbian work, “Last Summer at Bluefish Cove.” Recently, WOW produced Bayla Travis’ comedic fantasy, “The Dyke and the Porn Star.” Look for a possible revival this June. Enhancing its history of diverse LGBTQ+ programming, Island City Stage is presenting “Pulp,” a play with music inspired by 1950s lesbian novels and old Hollywood style. It runs through May 5. For tickets, visit https:// www.islandcitystage.org/ or call 954-928- 9800. Nicole Stodard FEATURE

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18 • 4.25.2024 FIDEL GARCIA T he Gay Men’s Chorus of South Florida (GMCSF) is thrilled to announce the appointment of Fidel Garcia as its new Development Manager. Garcia will spearhead the organization’s fundraising efforts and cultivate relationships with donors to support the chorus’s mission and programming. He brings a wealth of experience in nonprofit development and a passion for the arts to his new position. With a background in fundraising and a commitment to LGBTQ+ advocacy, he is poised to make significant contributions to the growth and sustainability of GMCSF. Mark B. Kent, Executive Director of the Gay Men’s Chorus of South Florida, expressed his excitement about Garcia’s appointment. “We are delighted to welcome Fidel to the GMCSF family,” said Kent. “His experience in development and his dedication to our community make him the perfect fit for this crucial position. We are confident that Fidel will play a key role in advancing our mission and ensuring the continued success of our chorus.” Before joining GMCSF, Fidel was the Director of Development and Communication at SAGE Eldercare in Summit, New Jersey. He achieved increased revenue during his tenure, while per-donor revenue and donor retention rates saw significant improvements. His professional journey began in telecommunications with Verizon (formerly NYNEX) from 1993 to 1997, where he excelled in bilingual sales and customer Photo by Pombo Photography. COMMUNITY Gay Men’s Chorus of South Florida service roles. In 1997, Fidel transitioned into the pharmaceutical industry, initially specializing in advertising with agency subsidiaries of Interpublic Group (IPG) and Wire and Plastic Products (WPP) until 2005. Fidel further honed his skills in organizational communications during his tenure at Janssen Pharmaceutical Companies of Johnson & Johnson from 2005 to 2021. “I am honored to join the Gay Men’s Chorus of South Florida as Development Manager,” said Garcia. “I have long admired the chorus’s artistic talent and advocacy for LGBTQ+ rights and visibility. I look forward to working with the incredible team at GMCSF to inspire audiences and build bridges with the community to realize a diverse world united.” Garcia’s appointment comes at an exciting time as the Chorus prepares for its June concert, Pride: Then, Now, and Forever, and its trip to Minneapolis in July for the GALA Choruses Festival. Fidel holds a Master of Business Administration (MBA) in Management and a Bachelor of Arts in Marketing (BA) from Iona University. His passion for making a difference in the world is matched only by his love for South Florida, where he looks forward to settling down with his beloved Biewer Terrier, Ricky, and continuing his mission of creating positive change in his new community. NEW DEVELOPMENT MANAGER JOINS GAY MEN’S CHORUS OF SOUTH FLORIDA “I AM HONORED TO JOIN THE GAY MEN’S CHORUS OF SOUTH FLORIDA AS DEVELOPMENT MANAGER. I HAVE LONG ADMIRED THE CHORUS’S ARTISTIC TALENT AND ADVOCACY FOR LGBTQ+ RIGHTS AND VISIBILITY.” - FIDEL GARCIA DEVELOPMENT MANAGER OF THE GAY MEN’S CHORUS OF SOUTH FLORIDA

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20 • 4.25.2024 CRAIG JUNGWIRTH PROMOTES BESTIALITY; FACEBOOK, GROWLR IGNORE HARASSMENT C raig Jungwirth is a deranged psychopath. And our legal system has failed his many victims over and over again. Jungwirth has been charged with stalking, a misdemeanor, and was recently arrested but quickly bonded out. His arraignment is now set for May 13. So I hope this letter makes its way to Judge Melinda Brown, and she takes the case of Jungwirth seriously. This letter is to help her understand his reign of terror and what he’s done and doing to the LGBTQ community. It’s been eight years since Jungwirth appeared in Wilton Manors and was accused of threatening to blow up the city. The FBI investigated him and later dropped the charges because they were unable to definitively connect him to his reported 57 fake Facebook profiles. So a few fake profiles online were able to stump the FBI? That sure inspires confidence. Since then, Jungwirth has started many years-long harassment campaigns against dozens of members of the LGBTQ community around the country – now including myself. This weekend he started harassing my husband, and the husband of my business partner. He recently sent me a screenshot of my mother’s Facebook profile, telling me she has nice hair. Creepy doesn’t begin to describe his weird antics. His latest form of harassment is texting people and posting all over social media about an upcoming “bestiality” event for Beach Bear Weekend. We’ve continuously reported these posts to Facebook, only for the social media company to ignore us. I reached out to the press team – no response. These fake profiles have been allowed to proliferate because Facebook has refused to shut them down. He’s also created fake Growlr profiles using my photo. I’ve received numerous messages from people I’ve never met informing me of these fake profiles. I don’t have a profile on Growlr, so I reached out to their press team, who have also ignored me. If bestiality doesn’t violate their terms of service of these social media companies, then what does? These posts also include the website BeachBearWeekend.com and are selling tickets to a fake event for $169, making it look like it’s partnering with FlockFest. It’s a scam. Do not VIEWPOINTS • PUBLISHER’S CORNER Jason Parsley Jason Parsley is publisher of OutSFL. He worked for South Florida Gay News from 2011-23. He’s a member of the Society of Professional Journalists and NLGJA - the Association of LGBTQ Journalists. In his spare time he’s an avid baker, and runner. Follow @parsleypastries on Instagram or email [email protected]. AN OPEN LETTER TO JUDGE MELINDA BROWN buy the tickets. His continued intimidation tactics have worked. I woke up in the middle of the night thinking someone was at my door. Another victim sleeps with a gun next to his bed. add sentence: These stories are just a tiny sample of his harassment. Craig Jungwirth is a menace to society. Our justice system failed. Recently, an authority figure told a victim that being annoying isn’t illegal. For any person to simply think this is “annoying” is trivializing it and is insulting. Let’s recap, Jungwirth set up a fake website selling tickets to a fake event. That’s fraud. He was once accused of threatening to blow up a city. That’s terrorism. He effectively shut down one victim’s business by booking hundreds of fake appointments. That’s harassment. Now he’s promoting bestiality. I don’t know if that’s illegal – but it’s fucking sick. Yet, Jungwirth has been able to thwart our legal system over and over again. For example, several of his victims over the years have filed restraining orders. The judge was sympathetic, but because Jungwirth was never legally notified of these proceedings, the judge had to dismiss the case. That’s because Jungwirth evaded the process servers, allowing him to escape justice. Is our legal system that easily manipulated? I hope not. So please Judge Brown, I implore you to take this case seriously. READ MORE: CRAIG JUNGWIRTH IS BACK - THE KING OF CHAOS CONTINUES HIS REIGN OF HARASSMENT AND SCAMS OUR COLUMNISTS ONLINE! READ MORE AT OUTSFL.COM READING RAINBOW by Aurora Dominguez MOMBIAN by Dana Rudolph QUEERLY BELOVED by Kelly Ghweinem THE WISE SNOWY OWL by Brian McNaught THE HAAKE TAKE by Sabrina Haake Screenshot of messages that Craig Jungwirth had been messaging and posting on social media. Inset photo courtesy of the Broward County Sheriff’s office.

4.25.2024 • 21 SB 184 ALLOWS POLICE TO EVADE ACCOUNTABILITY “Love without judgement” A home for your spirit. Holy Angels National Catholic Church 1436 NE 26th Street Wilton Manors. 33305 Facebook.com/HolyAngelsFL www.HolyAngelsFL.org 954-633-2987 Mass Schedule: Sabado 6:00 PM misa en español • Sunday Mass at 11 AM in English • All are welcome! Join us for masked, socially distanced in person worship. 11 AM Sundays. Services also LIVE-streamed on Facebook and posted on website for safe at home viewing. Donate Your Car Imagine the Di erence You Can Make • Every donated vehicle will be properly recycled, reducing waste and harmful emissions. • Vehicle donations are fully tax-deductible and the proceeds help provide services to help the blind and visually impaired. Help Prevent Blindness Get A Vision Screening Annually FREE TOWING & TAX DEDUCTIBLE When you donate your car, you’ll receive: Donate Your Car • Every donated vehicle will be properly recycled, reducing waste and harmful emissions. FREE • Vehicle donations are fully tax-deductible and Call 1-855-758-0975 ✔ a $200 restaurant voucher ✔ a 2-night, 3-day hotel stay at one of 50 locations CONGREGATION ETZ CHAIM 2038 N. Dixie Hwy, Wilton Manors (Pride Center Building B) 954-564-9232 | etzchaimflorida.org [email protected] Friday Night Shabbat Service 8p.m. HOLY ANGELS CATHOLIC COMMUNITY 1436 NE 26th St, Wilton Manors 954-633-2987 - HolyAngelsFL.net Sunday Mass at 11AM ST. MARY MAGDALENE & ST. MARTIN EPISCOPAL CHURCH 1400 Riverside Dr, Coral Springs 954-753-1400 | www.stmmcs.net Sunday Worship 8:30am, 10:30am, 12:30pm (Spanish) ST. NICHOLAS EPISCOPAL CHURCH 1111 E. Sample Road, Pompano Beach 954-942-5887 | StNicholasFL.org Sunday Service 9:30AM SPIRITUALITY LISTINGS PLEASE CHECK EACH LOCATION'S SOCIAL MEDIA FOR THE MOST UP-TO-DATE INFORMATION REGARDING DATES, IN-PERSON ATTENDANCE FOR SERVICES, OR OPTIONS FOR VIRTUAL ATTENDANCE. STS FRANCIS AND CLARE CHURCH 2300 NW 9th Ave. (Powerline Rd.) WIlton Manors 954-731-8173 | stsfrancisandclare.org Sunday: 10:30 AM. Watch LIVE @ facebook.com/stsfrancisandclare UNITARIAN UNIVERSALIST FELLOWSHIP OF BOCA RATON 2601 St Andrews Blvd. in Boca Raton (just off Glades Rd., next to University Woodlands Park) (561) 482-2001 | www.uufbr.org Sunday service at 10:30 AM Eastern. Zoom Meeting ID: 914 8201 7108 Passcode: 952914 DESANTIS HAS NO RESPECT FOR THE FIRST AMENDMENT Gov. Ron DeSantis is continuing his assault on the First Amendment by signing into law SB 184 that creates a buffer zone around first responders – supposedly to keep harassers away. As one judge recently said in a ruling in another case: “Once again, the State of Florida has a First Amendment problem.” Meanwhile, First Amendment advocates, like the First Amendment Foundation and ACLU, have raised alarms over the buffer law. “We appreciate the importance of protecting first responders but are concerned that the bill prevents citizens from going near or filming first responders within 25 feet if told not to approach,” the First Amendment Foundation wrote. “This bill would undermine citizen journalists and could allow for undocumented police misconduct.” Without proper checks and balances in place first responders, especially police, will inevitably end up abusing their positions of power. We’ve seen it time and time again. Documenting their behavior is not harassment. It’s a public right. The ACLU wrote: “SB 184 would grant police the unchecked power to prevent the public, including the media, from being able to be close enough to observe and record instances of law enforcement excessive use of force. The bill includes no exceptions for media or bystanders engaged in the nonconfrontational recording of law enforcement, verbal attempts to deescalate an officer’s excessive use of force in order to save lives, or attempts to render aid and medical assistance to an already defenseless injured individual from further unnecessary violent actions by law enforcement. This bill would make it harder to hold police accountable for their actions, would shield police from public scrutiny, and would criminalize individuals for bearing witness.” One of the best examples of citizen journalism was Darnella Frazier’s recording of former Minneapolis police officer Derek Chauvin’s murder of George Floyd. Imagine if there had been a buffer law – giving police the ability to accuse her of harassment, or order her to stop filming, or even arrest her. Frazier was later awarded an honorary Pulitzer Prize VIEWPOINTS • PUBLISHER’S CORNER Jason Parsley Jason Parsley is publisher of OutSFL. He worked for South Florida Gay News from 2011-23. He’s a member of the Society of Professional Journalists and NLGJA - the Association of LGBTQ Journalists. In his spare time he’s an avid baker, and runner. Follow @parsleypastries on Instagram or email [email protected]. for the recording. Russell Cormican, a First Amendment attorney, in Fort Lauderdale explains that the constitution allows for some restrictions on expression, but this one may go too far. “You don’t have the first amendment right to scream at the judge in a courtroom and disrupt the proceedings,” Cormican said. “However, these restrictions must be content-neutral, not overly restrictive, and there must be alternative avenues for the expression to take place. So, it is possible that this bill may be going too far in creating such a large buffer zone that it no longer serves the purpose of protecting police officers but rather is simply being used to stifle criticism of police conduct.” Of course this law is an overreach. That’s what DeSantis does best. He isn’t concerned with crafting meaningful and nuanced laws that will withstand legal scrutiny. He wants to rile up his base. For someone who proclaims himself to be a law and order politician he’s actually an authoritarian who has little regard for the constitution. DeSantis has a long history of restricting our Freedom of Speech, whether that’s through the “Don’t Say Gay” laws; the book bans; his “antiwoke” law; or his war against diversity, equity and inclusion on college campuses. Some of these laws have been rolled back or blocked by courts. “Once again, the State of Florida has a First Amendment problem,” Chief U.S. District Judge Mark Walker wrote about DeSantis’ anti-pronoun law. “Of late, it has happened so frequently, some might say you can set your clock by it.” Photo by Gage Skidmore, via Wikimedia Commons.

22 • 4.25.2024 LAST WEEK’S TOP 5 ONLINE STORIES WASHINGTON STRIPPERS LAW SPARKS DEEPER CONVERSATION ON GENDER EQUITY by Hunter Houston CRAIG JUNGWIRTH OUT ON BOND by John Hayden 3 ‘HERE WE GO AGAIN’ - LONG-LOST LOVE by Terri Schlichenmeyer 4 PALM BEACH REALTOR HOSTS CLOTHING DRIVE APRIL 18 by Sean Conklin 5 UNIVERSITY OF FLORIDA’S ATTACK ON DEI IS DEGRADING EDUCATION AND DEVALUING OUR DEGREES | OPINION by Wayne Besen READ MORE AT OUTSFL.COM CLIMATE JUSTICE HAS BEGUN I n a historic ruling that could change the trajectory of a rapidly heating planet, a court of law with binding jurisdiction over most of Europe has ruled that governments can be held liable for inadequate responses to climate change. The European Court of Human Rights determined that rising temperatures in Switzerland caused direct and tangible health consequences among Swiss citizens, and that governments failing to take adequate steps to mitigate and reduce carbon emissions could owe damages to people hurt by their inaction. EUROPE COULD TAKE CLIMATE CASES IN A NEW DIRECTION The ECHR ruling is unprecedented in several respects, beginning with its reliance on principles of human rights. The Court ruled that governments failing to do enough to address climate change were violating the European Convention on Human Rights, which holds as its first tenet that, “Everyone’s right to life shall be protected by law.” By failing to meet its own climate targets, the court held, the Swiss government injured citizens’ fundamental right to life. The plaintiffs themselves were also unique. In climate cases pending around the world, including in the U.S., the vast majority of plaintiffs are young people worried about how they will survive on a burning planet with rapidly disappearing habitats and resources. The ECHR case, in contrast, was brought by elderly plaintiffs, most of whom were women in their 70s who alleged that their elderly years and gender made them particularly vulnerable to health risks linked to climate change. Heatwaves, in particular, can be deadly for the elderly as excessive heat triggers a strained cardiovascular response. Cognizant of their own time limitations, these women sued to benefit the next generation. One plaintiff told the BBC, “We know statistically that in 10 years we will be gone. So whatever we do now, we are not doing for ourselves, but for the sake of our children and our children’s children.” The ECHR ruling could directly and immediately shape industrial policies throughout the industrialized economies of Europe. Although it falls to Switzerland to comply with the ruling, its precedent is legally binding on all 46 member states Photo by Markus Spiske on Unsplash. including Germany, the U.K., France and Italy, all fuel-burning heavy hitters. CLIMATE CHALLENGES IN THE U.S. The European Court ruled that Switzerland’s efforts to reduce carbon emissions had been “woefully inadequate.” Although the ruling isn’t binding on U.S. courts, the domestic fossil fuel industry will be directly affected by it, since the U.S. has recently become the biggest supplier of crude oil to the European Union Climate litigants in the U.S. have followed a different strategy. State and local governments are now suing fossil fuel companies and the American Petroleum Institute for damages caused by climate change, astronomical damages that fall to states, cities, and towns that can’t afford to pay for them. These climate cases name private fossil fuel companies as defendants, seeking to hold for-profit industries including BP, Chevron, ConocoPhillips, ExxonMobil and Shell responsible for increasing carbon dioxide and methane emissions caused by their products. BIG OIL’S CAMPAIGN OF DECEPTION Legal claims and allegations pending in the U.S. focus largely on big oil’s deceptive practices. Like the tobacco disinformation cases from the 1990s, these cases allege fraud, nuisance, conspiracy, and negligence arising from the industry’s long-standing public disinformation campaigns. Congress has conducted numerous investigations into big oil’s pattern of deception. Despite clear, written evidence that oil executives have long known the causal connection between fossil fuels and climate change, industry executives have consistently lied about it to protect their profits. Nearly 10 years ago, Democratic members of Congress addressed a report by the Union of Concerned Scientists concluding that “there was a coordinated campaign VIEWPOINTS • OPINION Sabrina Haake THE HAAKE TAKE Sabrina Haake is a columnist and 25 year litigator specializing in 1st and 14th Amendment defense. Follow her on Substack. of deception” on climate science by ExxonMobil, Chevron, ConocoPhillips, BP, Shell, Peabody Energy and other members of the fossil fuel industry. Big oil’s targeted acts of deception over a decades-long campaign included “forged letters to Congress,” secret funding of allegedly independent but industry-controlled scientists, creating “fake grassroots organizations” to influence policy, and multiple, ongoing, and in-depth “efforts to deliberately manufacture uncertainty about climate science.” A YOUNG PERSON’S LAMENT Climate activists should be uplifted and encouraged by the ECHR decision, as its effects begin to ripple through the fossil fuel industry, industrialized economies and reluctant courts. It won’t change the prognosis or the immediate future — today’s youth will still live through the worst effects of climate destruction, even though they had nothing to do with the policies that caused it. But one major, outcome-determinative weapon remains: the right to vote. As enraging as it is for young Americans to hear oil-financed politicians deny climate change (“Drill baby, drill!”), we could fund the transition to clean energy — including an upgraded, nationwide grid of sufficient capacity — if every young adult simply voted. Follow Sabrina Haake on substack

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24 • 4.25.2024 Dear John, My husband and I have been married for eight years. He works in the military, and I work in insurance. He was recently deployed to Egypt for a year, leaving me to hold down the house and our three children alone. We talked while he was away, and he would check in on the kids, but as the time went on it felt like the talks between us became more and more transactional. It left me feeling isolated and alone. When he finally arrived back home, it wasn’t the homecoming I was hoping for. He was distant and aloof, but I tried to give him space given that he was coming back from a long deployment. Over the months that followed, he just got further and further away and even began to become distant from our children and our shared family life. We live in the same house, we raise our children, and we work, but we are not connected anymore. We have had sex once since he has been home. I have tried to talk and suggest counseling, but he won’t even have that conversation. I feel like my family is falling apart, but it’s not a loud explosion, it’s a silent implosion. How do I get through this? Mike – Homestead, FL Dear Military Malaise Mike, The one thing I know for sure is that you will absolutely get through this. Whether getting through this means repairing your marriage or moving on, you will get through it. It will be hard no matter which path your marriage takes, and it will likely have a lot of hurting to come, but you will get through it and there is a new chapter on the other side. Being a gay military family is already very difficult but adding a deployment of that length and a house full of kids would be a stressor on any relationship. Something has shifted in your partner while he was away, but if he isn’t willing to talk about it with you, you are limited in what you can do to move forward. I’m not a fan of ultimatums, but John Porter ASK JOHN PORTER CULTURE • OPINION I FEEL ISOLATED AND ALONE. HELP! Submit your John Porter is an entrepreneur and founding questions here. partner at Oasis Asset Management. He has served as a political organizer and strategist within the Democratic party, as well as serving as an executive board member for the Miami Yacht Club. The advice offered in this column is intended for informational purposes only. Use of this column is not intended to replace or substitute any financial, medical, legal, or other professional advice. Photo via Pexels. in this case, where you have children, I think it’s fair to set the boundary that this must be talked about. As a parent you have an obligation to your children to clear the air and make sure they’re in a healthy environment. If it’s possible, suggest a getaway for the two of you. If he’s not there yet, then maybe a walk together. Make it clear that you intend to have the hard talk and are willing to do that in any space that makes him comfortable. If he won’t take a step toward you, even the smallest step, then it’s time to think about a new chapter for your family.

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26 • 4.25.2024 Terry Dyer, an award-winning author and activist, raises HIV/ AIDS awareness, develops community programs and grants, fosters LGBTQ+ engagement, and engages in athletics. He wrote “Letters to a GAY BLACK BOY,” sparking discussions on racism, homophobia, mental health, family, and love. Rev. Skip Jennings, an author, podcaster, transformational coach, and yoga/meditation teacher. He is a New Thought Minister and his notable work, “The Little Book for Transformation,” inspires change and living an authentic spiritual life. THE ESSENCE OF DIVERSITY & INCLUSION A JOURNEY TOWARDS EMPOWERMENT AND UNDERSTANDING I n the radiant scale of humanity, diversity and inclusion stand as beacons of hope, guiding us towards a world where every voice is heard, every identity celebrated, and every heart recognized. As we navigate the complexities of our times, the essence of our collective journey leans heavily on acceptance, resilience, and the unyielding power of queer empowerment. It is within this realm that we find our true strength, drawing from the rich experiences that define the LGBTQ community and its allies. Diversity and inclusion go beyond mere words or box checking; they are the embodiment of action, understanding, and love. In the heart of every individual lies the potential for greatness, a potential that flourishes in environments that embrace gender fluidity, queer advancement, and the rights of trans individuals. It’s a world where “love is love” is not just a slogan for T-shirts but a lived reality, where safe spaces become sanctuaries of growth, and intersectional diversity nurtures the soul of communities. The journey of Black queer individuals is one of profound resilience and unapologetic authenticity. It’s a narrative steeped in the richness of Afro-queer identities, a testament to the enduring spirit of those who navigate the intersection of race, sexual orientation, and gender identity. In celebrating Black queer pride, we honor the lived experiences of those who have battled against the twin specters of racism and homophobia, forging a path of intersectional justice and cultural affirmation. Allyship is not a badge of honor to be worn but a commitment to be lived, preferably out loud and proud. It’s a journey of unlearning, relearning, and standing in solidarity with marginalized communities. True allyship involves dismantling the structures of oppression that permeate our societies, advocating for equality, and fostering a sense of belonging. It’s about empowering Black trans voices, supporting queer individuals in their quest for visibility and representation, and embracing all intersections of identity with respectful open hearts and minds. As we stand at the crossroads of history, the call to action has never been clearer. It’s time to engage in honest conversations about diversity, inclusivity, and the role each of us plays in creating a more equitable world. Here are 10 steps to ignite this crucial dialogue: 1. EDUCATE YOURSELF: Dive deep into the experiences of LGBTQ individuals, especially those from marginalized communities. Understanding their journeys is the first step towards meaningful allyship. 2. SPEAK UP: Challenge homophobia, transphobia, and racism in your circles. Silence often implies consent; your voice can make a difference. 3. CREATE SAFE SPACES: Ensure environments where individuals can express their authentic selves without fear. Whether in the workplace, schools, or within families, safe spaces are crucial for growth and acceptance. 4. CELEBRATE DIVERSITY: Acknowledge and honor the myriad of identities and experiences within the LGBTQ community. Each story is unique and adds to the rich fabric of our society. 5. LISTEN AND LEARN: Give space to marginalized voices, understanding that their experiences offer invaluable insights. Active listening is a profound act of respect and empathy. 6. ADVOCATE FOR POLICIES: Support laws and policies that protect LGBTQ rights and promote equality. Political engagement is key to societal change. Terry Dyer and Rev. Skip Jennings GRITZ AND GLITTER CULTURE • OPINION 7. FOSTER BELONGING: Make inclusivity a cornerstone of your interactions, recognizing the value of each individual. Belonging is a fundamental human need. 8. CHALLENGE TOKENISM: Move beyond superficial inclusion to meaningful engagement with diverse perspectives. Genuine inclusivity involves valuing individuals for their contributions, not just their identities. 9. SUPPORT LGBTQ BUSINESSES: Amplify queer-owned enterprises and creators. Economic empowerment is a powerful tool for community building. 10. BE AN ACTIVE ALLY: Stand with the LGBTQ community, not just in words but in deeds. Allyship requires action and commitment. The essence of diversity and inclusion is not a distant dream but a living, breathing movement – one that we’re all a part of, contributing to a tapestry as diverse and beautiful as humanity itself. This movement transcends the barriers of race, gender, sexuality, and all forms of discrimination, uniting us in our shared humanity and our quest for a world where everyone, irrespective of whom they love or how they identify, finds a place to belong, thrive, and shine. Let us move forward with love, understanding, and an unwavering commitment to justice. Our actions today will pave the way for future generations, creating a legacy of inclusion and empowerment that will resonate for years to come. Together, we can make a difference. You can also listen to Terry and Rev Skip’s conversion on their new podcast Gritz and Glitter The Pod: https://gritzandglitter. transistor.fm/. Connect on Socials Instagram: @gritzandglitterthepod and Facebook: Gritz and Glitter. Photo via Pexels.

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28 • 4.25.2024 TO-DO LIST [email protected] Compiled by Rick Karlin [email protected] CULTURE • FOOD SIDE DISHES Photo courtesy of Arc Culinary. BURGER TIME Plane Jane may have made the “burger finger” a thing on “RuPaul’s Drag Race” but did you know that May is National Burger Month? Did you even know burgers had their own month? Visit Fort Lauderdale is jumping on the Burger bandwagon (or is that bun?) with 954 Burger Month, a collaborative effort organized by the Burger Beast and the Visit Lauderdale Food & Wine Festival, to shine a spotlight on the incredible world of tasty and creative burgers, crafted by talented burger folks spanning from Coral Springs to Hallandale Beach, Miramar to Pompano Beach, and everywhere in between. The month will feature pop-up events around Broward beginning on May 1, from 6-9 p.m. (or until sold out) at LAUDERALE BREWERY with BURGER BEAST and BMC SMASH BURGERS participating. Special guest Luchadough will also be in attendance slinging some of the best donuts around and the featured burger will be The Frita Cubana. Visit 954Burgermonth.com for more information. DOING GOOD WHILE EATING WELL Arc Culinary is a mission-driven social enterprise of Arc Broward that is reshaping the culinary landscape by providing realworld experience and training for adults with disabilities through its nationally accredited Entry-Level Culinary Arts Certificate Program and the state-of-the-art Emeril Lagasse Foundation Innovation Kitchen that serves more than 1,200 people annually. In time for Cinco de Mayo, the four-course “Tacos & Tequila Fiesta” on Friday, May 3 at 7 p.m. will feature tequila-based drinks paired with a menu featuring the flavors of Mexico, including red lentil tacos in a fresh yuca tortilla, taco pollo al pastor, taco de birria, and a dessert trio of concha, flan, and lime paleta. Go to arcculinary.com for more information on this and other events. DINING ON THE WATER A floating open-air food court will be at the center of MARINA VILLAGE AT BAHIA MAR, scheduled to open in early May. The man behind the beverages is David Cardaci, who also operates Holly Blue and Mexican chain The Whole Enchilada. The food vendors include TACO VIBEZ, SUSHI SONG, MASON’S FAMOUS LOBSTER ROLLS, YIP, QUORE GELATO, BLUE STEEL PIZZA CO., FRESH GARDEN BOWLS, and BURGERS & SHAKES. When Marina Village opens in May, roughly half of the food vendors are expected to be open. The vendor lineup was winnowed down from a pool of 50 vendors who applied. NEW AND RECENTLY OPENED There’s never a shortage of new places in South Florida. Here are just a few places that are recently opened, just opened or about to open. MITCH’S, familiar to those for his Fort Lauderdale deli has a new Hallandale location at 601 N. Federal Hwy. Also opening next to Mitch’s will be Drunken Dragon, a Korean barbecue spot touting tiki-themed cocktails and Asian tapas. JERK AND LIME AT NICOLE’S HOUSE, owner Nicole Myers’ long-in-the-works Caribbean restaurant plans to open west of downtown Delray Beach. BLACK JACK’S RUM BAR & GRILLE, the folks behind Drunken Taco chain and Giovanni’s Coal Fire Pizza are with this American pub that’s expected to debut in Davie this Spring. Rick Karlin HOT DISH Read more from Rick Karlin is OutSFL’s arts & culture editor, but the this author here views and opinions he expresses in his columns are solely his own and do not represent the official viewpoint of OutSFL. Have a culinary tip to share? Email Rick at [email protected]. CHECK OUT THIS FOOD NEWS YOU CAN SINK YOUR TEETH INTO “YOU’D SHOOT THESE LOVELIES?” Miami City Ballet presents Alexei Ratmansky’s Swan Lake, through the 26th at The Broward Center. Rosie’s has $4 Stoli cocktails and $6 martinis starting at 7 p.m. tonight. THURSDAY, APRIL 25 FAMILY AND SUPERHEROES ArtBuzz Theatrics’ opens “Falsettos,” the Tony-Award-winning sung-through musical about family, relationships, and AIDS at Empire Stage. The Eagle has “Bang,” which judging from the ads is some sort of superhero fetish/fantasy. FRIDAY, APRIL 26 SKIRTING THE ISSUE, AND SO MANY QUESTIONS There’s a launch party for Skirt Magazine at Hunters from 6-9 p.m., with a screening of Tello Films’ lesbian travel series (“Around the World in A U-Haul”?). Alibi has Noche Loka, Latin dancing in the Monkey Bar (when don’t they have Latins dancing?). Ralphi Rosario is spinning at The Eagle for True Blue (Madonna or Babe the Blue Ox). The Pub on the Drive kicks off Drag Roulette hosted by Vauz Allen with special guests Arika Norell and Treisha Jones. (How many drag queens does it take to spin a wheel?) SATURDAY, APRIL 27 THE BRUNCH BUNCH Stop by The Pub on the Drive for a great brunch and entertainment by Matthew Darren. You can hardly walk down the Drive without stumbling into a brunch: Rosie’s, Alibi, Spencer’s, Tropics, Myth Gastro Pub, Sardi, Violet’s & Zen’s, Ethos, Apt. 9F, Tulio’s, Bubbles & Pearls, and The Well. SUNDAY, APRIL 28 AREN’T THEY ALL? Claudia Castillo ART Studio presents “Faceless Men” by Robert Jaso through May 10. MONDAY, APRIL 29 MUSIC MEN The Parker welcomes Kenny G and The Kravis presents “Rain – A Tribute to The Beatles: Musical Mystery Tour.” TUESDAY, APRIL 30 THE BIGGEST WHAT? Johnsons website states “The biggest drinks on the drive!” I misread that third word at first, but I’m certain my original interpretation is true as well. No cover before 8 p.m. and only $5 after that. WEDNESDAY, MAY 1

4.25.2024 • 29 CALL ME FOR A FREE TOUR 1414 on NE 26th Street, Wilton Manors, FL For availability contact: [email protected] Event & Meeting Space: 3,000+ sq feet available for your next gathering, live event or entertainment needs. www.jfoy.org Booking now for spring/summer/fall events. (954) 594-3473 “please leave a message” NEW LOCATION and and

30 • 4.25.2024 T hree-quarters of the all-female Utahnative band The Aces are queer. It’s not four of a kind, but it’s pretty good odds, regardless. The Aces’ 2023 album “I’ve Loved You For So Long” (Red Bull Records) features some of the catchiest and queerest songs you are likely to hear. In other words, there’s no question that these are samegender love (and love lost) songs, beginning with the title track, featuring the lines, “You’re taking me back babe to where it all started/Wearing your hair up in your New York apartment.” When lead vocalist Cristal Ramirez sings “I don’t know when I fell/She doesn’t know as well,” there’s no doubt about what she’s singing about on “Girls Make Me Wanna Die.” That same openness is found on “Not The Same,” “Person,” “Suburban Blues,” and “Attention.” Sonically, The Aces’ pop style could qualify them as a queer Haim. In 2024, The Aces are embarking on a multi-city tour beginning with a set at the West Palm Beach music festival on May 4 at SunFest and continuing through the year. Cristal generously made time for an interview in advance of the tour dates. GREGG SHAPIRO: CRISTAL, FOR THOSE NOT IN THE KNOW, PLEASE SAY A FEW WORDS ABOUT THE FORMATION OF THE BAND THE ACES. CRISTAL RAMIREZ: The Aces are a four-piece band from Orem, Utah. All women. Three of the four of us are queer. We make indie pop rock music, I would say. We started together when we were really young. I’m 28 now, we started when I was like 10 years old. We grew up and went to school together. We started playing music in our small suburban town because we were drawn to it individually. We’ve been playing together for almost two decades. GS: WHAT ARE THE BEST AND WORST PARTS ABOUT BEING IN A BAND WITH YOUR SISTER ALISA? CR: [Laughs] I think the best part is that we’re so close. The difference in our ages is barely even a year and a half. We’ve grown up inseparably. It feels like we’re almost twins, in a way. We understand each other better than anybody in the world. That synergy between each other aids the way we write music, the way we play, how we show up in the band. It’s like we can read each other’s minds, which CRISTAL RAMIREZ AND THE ACES HOLD ALL THE CARDS Cristal Ramirez (left) and The Aces. Photo by Julian Burgueño. ENTERTAINMENT • MUSIC Gregg Shapiro is an amazing quality to have in a creative partner. The downside of that is that it’s your sister. We can drive each other a little crazy sometimes. But there’s comfortability, although sometimes that comfortability can be a little smothering. I think we’ve done a good job together at learning how to navigate times where maybe our relationship is a little more strained. GS: WHAT IS THE STORY BEHIND THE BAND’S NAME? CR: There’s really not a great story. As I said, we were young, 10 years old. We had booked this show in our community, probably at a flea market or something, and we needed a name really bad. Originally, it was The Blue Aces, and then it turned into The Aces, years later. I thought it sounded like a rock and roll band. We needed a name for that show, and then it just stuck. GS: WHO ARE YOUR TOP THREE MUSICAL INFLUENCES AND HOW DO YOUR INFLUENCES ALIGN WITH THE OTHER BAND MEMBERS? CR: I think band influences are different than personal influences. Alisa and I, being sisters, grew up in the same household, so a lot of our influences were the music our parents listened to growing up. A lot of ‘80s pop, disco, and feel-good music that you wanted to dance to: Whitney Houston and The Pointer Sisters. Also, our dad is Honduran, and so there’s the Latin influence like Selena and Marc Anthony. We grew up dancing a lot. Our relationship to music was influenced by dance music and disco. Katie (Henderson) and McKenna (Petty) grew up with classic rock and ‘80s new wave and alternative bands. I think the marriage of those influences is what The Aces are: disco indie pop. You hear a lot of disco influence across much of our music but paired with alternative influences like The Cure and Depeche Mode. GS: THE ACE’S SONGWRITING IS CREDITED TO THE BAND AND KEITH VARON, WHO ALSO CO-PRODUCED AND PLAYS ON THE BAND’S MOST RECENT ALBUM “I’VE LOVED YOU FOR SO LONG.” HOW DOES THE SONGWRITING PROCESS WORK? CR: It changes. We’ve made three albums and each album has a different approach. “I’ve Loved You For So Long” was just the four of us and one main collaborator. We’d go in and write songs together, and he’d mainly produce. A song like “Suburban Blues” was written in a room and played, like we did when we were kids. Then there’s other songs where maybe Keith had a guitar idea and we started writing on that. We’re very involved in our writing and we write everything that we put out. GS: AS YOU MENTIONED, 3/4 OF THE ACES’ MEMBERS IDENTIFY AS PART OF THE LGBTQ COMMUNITY, AND SONGS SUCH AS THE TITLE CUT, “GIRLS MAKE ME WANNA DIE,” “SUBURBAN BLUES,” AND “NOT THE SAME,” TO MENTION A FEW DIRECTLY ADDRESS QUEERNESS. HOW IMPORTANT IS IT TO YOU TO INCLUDE THAT CONTENT IN YOUR SONGS? CR: It’s kind of innate in a way. At the end of the day, it’s really who we are. It’s a part of our lives and how we identify, how we show up in the world within a romantic relationship. It’s a massive part of what we’re inspired to write about: our relationships, and love, and romance. At the same time, I think it’s super important to be out and show up as our authentic selves because I think that saves lives. I think the more visibility you have, and the more vulnerable and brave you can be in sharing every part of yourself, that’s the part of you that society might deem less commercial, less sellable. That’s a very big aspect in the music industry. That’s the reason why we’ve been able to create such a strong fan base and a strong culture around our band. I think that that authenticity really resonates. The people that really get our band: it’s a deep connection to the music and to the artistry and to who we are as people. I think visibility is super important because visibility saved my life as a young kid in suburban Utah. Getting on YouTube and getting on the Internet and trying to find people that look like me, talk like me, and love like me. That was so crucial in life as a person and as an artist. I hope that our band can do that for other people. GS: HAS THE ACES EVER PLAYED ANY PRIDE FESTS? CR: Oh, yeah! We did a whole Pride tour in 2022. We played eight different Pride Fests across the country. GS: THE ACES ARE PERFORMING AS PART OF THE AMAZING LINE-UP AT SUNFEST IN WEST PALM BEACH IN MAY. ARE THERE ANY BANDS YOU’RE ESPECIALLY EXCITED ABOUT HEARING? CR: I think the lineup, in general, is exciting for us. But more than anything, we just love our fans in Florida. It’s been a place we’ve wanted to come back to more frequently because it feels like the fan base in Florida is so passionate. We just did a show in Orlando. It was one of my favorite shows on the entire tour. More than anything, I’m excited to expand our market. It feels like the queer audience in Florida is so dedicated and enthusiastic. GS: IN SEPTEMBER AND OCTOBER, THE ACES WILL BE ON TOUR WITH GOTH BABE. WHAT ARE YOU MOST LOOKING FORWARD TO ABOUT THOSE SHOWS? CR: Goth Babe is a good friend of ours. We met him at a festival a few years ago in Iowa, I think. He’s been supportive and sweet. He’s so kind to bring us out on tour with him. We’re really looking forward to playing Red Rocks. I’m excited for all the venues we’re playing with him. Some of them are truly iconic. GS: HAVE THE ACES STARTED WRITING SONGS FOR THE FOLLOW-UP TO “I’VE LOVED YOU FOR SO LONG?” CR: Yes, we have. I’m about to go into a session today. We haven’t stopped writing since we came back from Japan and Australia in November. We immediately started writing again. I’m excited about the direction we’re taking and the kind of music we’re making. Yes, more music is in the works.

4.25.2024 • 31 5MAY 7MAY Symphony of the Americas See you at the Symphony! Get tickets at sota.org Broward Center for the Performing Arts Pablo Mielgo Artistic Director & Principal Conductor PINCHAS ZUKERMAN Symphonic Finale Brahms - Debussy - Ravel

32 • 4.25.2024 ICONS BY THE SCORE Melissa Etheridge. Photo courtesy of Hard Rock Live at Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino, Hollywood. Rick Karlin ARTBUZZ TACKLES TONY WINNER ArtBuzz Theatrics presents the Tony Awardwinning musical “Falsettos,” April 26 through May 19 at Empire Stage in Fort Lauderdale. A “sung through” musical with a book by William Finn and James Lapine, and music and lyrics by William Finn, Falsettos revolves around the life of a charming, intelligent, neurotic gay man named Marvin, his wife, his lover, his aboutto-be-Bar-Mitzvahed son, their psychiatrist, and the lesbians next door. Falsettos was nominated for seven Tony Awards and won two – for Best Book and Best Original Score. “After seeing a touring production of Falsettos – I believe in the early ‘90s, this show became an instant favorite,” says ArtBuzz Theatrics Producer and Founder Larry Buzzeo in a press release. “The score is beautiful – ranging from energetic Sondheimish patter songs to beautiful and poignant ballads. There are no villains or heroes, and the show accurately presents people with much humor.” Performances are on Fridays and Saturdays at 8 p.m. and Sundays at 5 p.m. KIDS, IT’S JUST A STAGE Broward Center has become one of the foremost creative laboratories for the creation of musicals that have been truncated and made age-appropriate adaptations of classic Broadway show, usually for production by children’s theater groups and schools, such as “Beetlejuice Jr.,” “Matilda Jr.,” “Something Rotten, Jr.!” and “Best of Broadway Jr. Revue.” The Broward Center for the Performing Arts has been selected by Musicw Theater International to be among the first in the country to produce DreamWorks Theatricals “Trolls the Musical Jr.,” a brand-new original musical prior to its official release. The musical will be presented in the Amaturo Theater at 7 p.m. on Thursday, May 23 and Friday, May 24. A special sensory-inclusive performance will take place on Saturday, May 25 at 10:30 a.m. ENTERTAINMENT • CULTURE CORNER ICONS AT WORK Hard Rock Live has become the place to go to see legendary acts. Among the artists booked to perform in the next few months are Diana Ross (May 8), Santana and Counting Crows (June 13), Red Hot Chili Peppers (June 23), KC and The Sunshine Band (July 5), Donny Osmond (July 24), Jewel and Melissa Etheridge (Sept. 24), and capping it all off by combining forces in a show called “An Evening of Icons,” The Commodores and The Pointer Sisters limited run tour (Nov. 15). Tickets for all shows are at Hard Rock’s website myHRL.com. MEN WITHOUT FACES Claudia Castillo ART Studio presents “Faceless Men” by Robert Jaso through May 10. AND THE AWARD GOES TO… The 47th Carbonell Awards, South Florida’s Theatre & Arts ceremony will be held on Nov. 11 at the Lauderhill Performing Arts Center. Hundreds of actors, musicians, performers, technicians, writers, and theater fans are expected to attend the glittery, entertainment-packed event that is South Florida’s version of Broadway’s Tony Awards. Carbonell Awards will be presented in 20 competitive categories, along with up to seven Special Awards including the prestigious George Abbott Award for Outstanding Achievement in the Arts. Tickets for the 2024 Carbonell Awards Ceremony will be $40 each (including a $7 service charge) and are available at carbonellawards.org. “Faceless Men.” Photo courtesy of Claudia Castillo ART Studio. P alm Beach Pride hit a few bumps in the road when its first day washed out - literally (after a flash flood). But it came roaring back on Sunday with its parade, festival and rising out country star Brooke Eden. OutSFL caught up with this year’s Grand Marshal, Chris Rhoades, for a brief interview. CHRIS, CAN YOU TELL OUR READERS A LITTLE ABOUT YOURSELF? My name is Chris Rhoades, but most know me by Chris “Ab Fab” named after my favorite British comedic TV show “Absolutely Fabulous.” I was born and grew up in New Jersey and after graduating from LaSalle University in Philadelphia, I moved to Charlotte, N.C. for two years and then have found the rest of my life here in beautiful West Palm Beach. I am most known for having produced the drag shows at the Tea dances at Camelot nightclub in downtown WPB. Since COVID, I have been producing drag shows all over Palm Beach County, a majority for Subculture Group, EVERY FRIDAY NIGHT WITH HIGH HEELS AT HULLABALOO, but also out in Wellington during equestrian season for Maxwell’s Plum as well as pop up Pride events in Delray Beach and Northwood. WHAT MESSAGE DO YOU HAVE FOR THOSE WHO MAY STILL BE STRUGGLING WITH THEIR LGBTQ IDENTITY? Coming to grips with one’s LGBTQIA+ identity is not always easy or a walk in the park. My advice to the youth or adults also struggling is just to worry less about what others think, and just blaze a path for yourself. I have always been very certain of who I am, but in my environment growing up, it was less than accepted and practically frowned upon. So I had to blaze a path the hell out of there so I could live my life as my true, authentic self. AN INTERVIEW WITH PALM BEACH PRIDE’S GRAND MARSHAL “MY ADVICE TO THE YOUTH OR ADULTS ALSO STRUGGLING IS JUST TO WORRY LESS ABOUT WHAT OTHERS THINK, AND JUST BLAZE A PATH FOR YOURSELF.” - CHRIS RHOADES PALM BEACH PRIDE GRAND MARSHAL 2024 Photo by JR Davis. ENTERTAINMENT • ART Andrew LaRochelle WHAT WAS THE MOST MEMORABLE MOMENT OF THIS YEAR’S PALM BEACH PRIDE? The entire day, start to finish, was so memorable as Grand Marshal of this year’s PB Pride. If I had to focus on something, it would be the outpouring of love and support for me and the queens. I guess I never realized just how many people were “paying attention” to what I was doing. I think if you just go about what you are doing with a true, genuine heart behind it, and not out for any “said recognition,” I think you end up accomplishing more and catching the attention of so many more individuals. WHAT WOULD BE YOUR TOP THREE PICKS FOR NEXT YEAR’S GRAND MARSHAL OF PALM BEACH PRIDE 2025? Toughest question of all, my top three picks for next year’s Grand Marshal of Pride? I say that jokingly, because when I received my beautiful letter from Julie Seaver, announcing my recognition, my first reaction was they have the wrong guy/girl. So to answer your question, it takes a lot of consideration. Last year, right around this time, is when I ended up taking a much more passionate stake into the drag community. New laws were unfairly being passed against our community, and someone had to act. Before that, I couldn’t have predicted that I would have become as much of a strong voice for the drag community. So I know you want names, so my three names are Seaver, Adrienne Percival, and Michael Riordan. Go ahead and try to argue any one of those names!

4.25.2024 • 33 A mélie Wen Zhao was inspired by Chinese mythology and history, so she wrote “Song of Silver, Flame Like Night.” WHAT WAS YOUR INSPIRATION BEHIND YOUR MOST RECENT BOOK? WHAT CAN READERS EXPECT FROM IT? “Song of Silver, Flame Like Night” was inspired by Chinese mythology and history, and is a celebration of the Chinese people’s resilience across turbulent histories as well as our cultural traditions. Readers can expect to enter a world steeped in the legends, folklore, and magic that I grew up with in Beijing, a smart-talking sunshine heroine with a grumpy hero, and a star-crossed romance meant to last across lifetimes. “READING RAINBOW” IS A COLUMN THAT REPRESENTS ALL WRITERS, THEIR STORIES, AND THEIR BACKGROUND. WHY DO YOU FEEL DIVERSE REPRESENTATION IS SO IMPORTANT IN BOOKS? We learn from the world around us, especially as children, so it’s important to see ourselves in the media and stories that are treasured within our communities. I grew up in a different corner of the world and strongly believe in accessing stories from all around the world to broaden our perspectives. More than ever, we need authentic voices of different backgrounds telling our stories. What we see in the media in each country tends to sensationalize events from around the world, so having authors telling stories of our lived experiences humanizes us and our people. WHAT INSPIRES YOUR WRITING STYLE AND STORIES? ARE THERE ANY AUTHORS THAT YOU LOOK UP TO? More and more, I’m experimenting with bringing Chinese storytelling into the English and global publication world — different takes on the myths and legends that inspire our fantasies, and different methods of telling those stories. I always look up to authors who bring new, rich perspectives into publishing, especially those from marginalized backgrounds. WHAT’S UP NEXT FOR YOU THAT YOU CAN SHARE? The sequel to the “Song of the Last Kingdom” duology is out on January 2, 2024; after that, I’ll be entering my dark Chinese romantasy era. Excited to share more! ‘SONG OF SILVER, FLAME LIKE NIGHT’ ENTERTAINMENT • BOOKS Aurora Dominguez THE READING RAINBOW A WORLD OF LEGENDS, FOLKLORE AND MAGIC Photos via ameliezhao.com.

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