OutSFL Vol. 2, Issue 5

VISIT US ONLINE AT OUTSFL.COM OUTSFL FEBRUARY 1, 2024 VOL. 2 • ISSUE 5 VISIT US ONLINE AT OUTSFL.COM OUTSFL @OUTSFL PAGES 4 & 16 5K PRIDE CENTER'S RAINBOW RUN SERVING WILTON MANORS AND OAKLAND PARK BEGINS IN CENTER

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4 • 2.1.2024 COVER: Rainbow 5K 2023. Photo courtesy of The Pride Center. February 1, 2024 • Volume 2• Issue 5 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 SOCIAL MEDIA DIRECTOR Christiana Lilly 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 CAN’T WAIT FOR PRINT? FOLLOW US ONLINE. OUTSFL.COM HERSHII LIQCOUR-JETÉ ON HER ‘DRAG RACE’ EXPERIENCE & GIVING A CASE OF ‘WHIPLASH’ Spot an error? Let us know at [email protected] “It’s time to step out in your most eyepopping joggers and splashiest running shorts. Make the rainbow jealous with your spectacularly colorful walk/run gear! Help raise funds, awareness, and support for The Pride Center at Equality Park!” L ace up your shoes, stretch your calves, and set an early alarm! The Pride Center’s eighth annual Rainbow 5k Run/Walk returns Feb. 4. The fastpaced event is part of their health initiative programs. Entry fee is $45 and can be filled out on their website. Check in starts at 6:45 a.m. at Holiday Park in Fort Lauderdale, and the starting gun goes off at 7:30 a.m. Challenge Fitness will start warmups at 7:15. The 5k (3.1mi) route runs through Fort Lauderdale’s Holiday Park, and proceeds raised support the Pride Center’s services and programs for the LGBTQ community. Pick out your most attention-grabbing fitness gear. This race is about standing out. “Forget subtlety,” The Pride Center said. READY TO RUN NEWS HIGHLIGHT John Hayden THE PRIDE CENTER HOLDS RAINBOW 5K FEB. 4 ‘BLACK ART AWAKENING’ TO SHOWCASE ARTISTS AT THE PRIDE CENTER B lack LGBTQ artists will have their talents on full display next month in Wilton Manors. It’s the fifth year of the “Black Art Awakening” exhibit. The public is invited to experience this wealth of artistic expression on Feb. 1 at the Pride Center at Equality Park. It will be an evening of culture, cuisine, and cocktails. Ten artists will have their creativity showcased. The Ujima Men’s Collective is collaborating to produce the exhibit. “‘Black Art Awakening’ is a celebration of Black artists to commemorate Black History Month and National Black HIV/ AIDS Awareness Day,” Lorenzo Robertson, Executive Director of Ujima Men’s Collective, said. “We wanted to add some cultural relevance to the day and focus on culture.” National Black HIV/AIDS Awareness Day is Feb. 7. It is a day set aside to acknowledge how HIV disproportionately affects Black people and commemorate the progress Black communities have made in reducing HIV. Denise Brown Rainbow 5K 2023. Photo courtesy of The Pride Center. Lorenzo Robertson, Executive Director of Ujima Men’s Collective. Photo via Facebook.

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6 • 2.1.2024 LAST WEEK'S COVER FROM THE NEWSROOM - TAYLOR SWIFT DURING HER RECENT CONCERT IN CHICAGO SCAN HERE TO VIEW THE ISSUE ONLINE LGBTQUOTEABLE QUOTE OF THE WEEK “You can’t build your campaign on the backs of hate, discrimination, and ‛WOKE’ and expect to win over the country. America just responded and said they DO NOT want to be Florida.” - FLORIDA STATE SENATOR, SHEVRIN JONES Photo via Shevrin Jones, Facebook.

2.1.2024 • 7 THE RESULTS ARE IN FIND OUT IF YOUR FAVORITES WON OUTSFL.COM/YCA2023 OUTSFL'S YOUR CHOICE AWARDS ARE PRESENTED BY

8 • 2.1.2024 OUT AND ABOUT PHOTO OF THE WEEK Husbands Douglas Leib, office manager at Gay Men's Chorus of South Florida, and Tony Corrente, GMCSL's president, attending their annual gala at the Westin Fort Lauderdale Beach Resort. Photos by JR Davis Robert Hadley, care guide at Broward House, Deacon at Holy Angels Catholic Church and event specialist with Wilton Manors Entertainment Group, with partner Carvelle Estriplet owner, CEO and founder of Carvelle Bikes.

2.1.2024 • 9 Welcome to truly immersive encounters Experience the wonders of Greater Fort Lauderdale, from Butterfly World, the world’s largest butterfly park, to an airboat ride in the Everglades. Explore miles of golden beaches, enjoy a sunset cruise or dive into a magical underwater world. Your beach playground awaits with things you’ve never seen and moments you’ll never forget. Plan Your Adventure at VisitLauderdale.com/lgbt

10 • 2.1.2024 By Kennedy McKinney OUT ABROAD META URGED TO MAKE PLATFORMS SAFER FOR LGBTQ USERS AFRICA Human Rights Watch, Social Media Exchange, and other groups started the #SecureOurSocials campaign which calls for Meta, the parent company of Facebook and Instagram, to improve the safety of LGBTQ people on its platforms. According to the Washington Blade, the campaign is inspired by a 2023 report released by Human Rights Watch. This report documents the digital threats to the LGBTQ community that are fueled by these apps. “Governments and tech companies share the responsibility for protecting human rights, especially for LGBT individuals,” said Rasha Younes, the LGBTQ rights deputy director at HRW, in an interview with the Blade. The campaign asks Meta to address harmful content, be more responsive to user complaints, and enforce policies on a consistent basis. Image via Facebook. HUNGARY PM SPEAKS ON LGBTQ ‘PROPAGANDA’ EUROPE V iktor Orbán, Hungary’s Prime Minister, said that “no money in the world” would make him accept, what he calls, LGBTQ “propaganda.” This comes after the EU took legal action against Hungary by freezing funding to the country out of concern for LGBTQ rights, the asylum system, academic freedoms and more. According to Pink News, on Jan. 17, Ursula von der Leyen, the European Commission president, said those funds “will remain blocked until Hungary fulfills all the necessary conditions,” which includes changing LGBTQ policies. One of those policies is a law that Hungary passed in 2022 that banned the discussion of LGBTQ people in schools and in the media. This law has been compared to Russia’s “antipropaganda” bill. This announcement did not appear to influence the PM as he took to X saying, “There is not enough money in the world to force us to let migrants in, and there is not enough money in the world for which we would put our children or grandchildren in the hands of LGBTQ+ activists.” The Prime Minister’s Chief of Staff followed this video, saying that changing Hungary’s policies on LGBTQ rights would contradict the will of voters. Viktor Orbán, Hungary’s Prime Minister. Photo by Vlada Republike Slovenije, via Wikimedia Commons. TRANS KILLINGS SPARK PROTESTS BY LGBTQ COMMUNITY NORTH AMERICA A t least three trans people were killed in the first two weeks of 2024 in Mexico. According to AP, these killings have led to protests by the LGBTQ community. On Jan. 15, around 100 people marched carrying signs that said “your hate speech kills.” Another group spray-painted “trans lives matter” on the walls of Mexico’s National Palace. “We are scared, but with that fear we’re going to keep fighting. We’re going to do everything in our power, so the next generations won’t have to live in fear,” Paulina Carrazco, a 41-year-old trans woman, told the AP. Human rights group Letra S says at least 513 targeted killings of LGBTQ+ people have occurred in the past six years. Photo via Adobe. THE RAINBOW REVOLUTION AROUND THE WORLD 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

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12 • 2.1.2024 MY HOLLYWOOD PRIDE CELEBRATES PERFECTION (AGAIN!) Husbands held hands. Wives corralled their kids. Kids ate pizza and chilled by the stage. For the third year in a row, My Hollywood Pride (MHP) reached its goal: improve life for LGBTQ in the city and hold a family event downtown. Over the weekend, the Hollywood LGBTQ Council celebrated continued strides in the city. Festivities kicked off Friday with Circle of Pride Networking Event at Sunset Club. Saturday was the Pride 100 Brunch at Redwood Bar & Kitchen. The “100” celebrates the city’s commitment to achieving a 100 score on HRC’s Municipal Equality Index. This is the third year in a row the city has achieved the milestone. Franchesca D’Amore was given the Trailblazer Award. The trans activist has been with MHP since its inception in 2022, and served as entertainment director this year. The brunch was followed by a raising of NEWS LOCAL John Hayden Photo by JR Davis. the Pride flag. The highlight of the weekend came Sunday, when thousands poured into downtown for a quaint, family friendly party and Pride. Craig Stevens of 7News and FayWhat?! of The FayWhat?! Show and Queer News Tonight hosted the stage and an all-star headliner, Janice Robinson, playing her hits and other disco classics she’s written over the past thirty years. She told an ecstatic audience what the LGBTQ community means to her. “It’s important you know who you are to me, to my daughters who are here. I wanted to sing a song to this beautiful community here.” She then performed Love Is In the Atmosphere and had the crowd wrapped around her finger. Robinson is filming a documentary about her life, and her appearance at MHP will be part of the story. Others entertaining the crowd included Miss Bouvèé, Matthew Darren, Ellie Lei and more. The street party wrapped up around 6 p.m., but the after-party was just getting started. Karma Lounge, which hosted the VIP during the day, hosted the tea dance. Other entertainment incorporated into the weekend came from OutShine Film Festival. They hosted a slate of five LGBTQ films at Cinema Paradiso. The night before, the theater hosted Queer Comedy Night, featuring queer and allied comics. THE HIGHLIGHT OF THE WEEKEND CAME SUNDAY, WHEN THOUSANDS POURED INTO DOWNTOWN FOR A QUAINT, FAMILY FRIENDLY PARTY AND PRIDE. TRANS ICON PROMOTES NEW REALITY SHOW T elevision star, singer, and overall role model for everything fabulous, Candis Cayne embodies some of the best of what makes the community special. Last week, she did a whirlwind tour through Wilton Manors. The entire trip was to promote her new reality show, “Candis Cayne’s Secret Garden”, which is on Advocate Channel. The seeds of the show were planted during the pandemic when, out of boredom, Cayne started a garden. In a year, her thumb was thoroughly green, and she wanted to share with the world. She produces the show with her best friend, Danna Davis, who said the only thing better than a lush garden is a lush garden with magical creatures. “It’s a combination of Martha Stewart Living and Pee-Wee’s Playhouse,” Cayne said. “It’s a fun how-to where you also get to meet all these magical creatures.” To promote the show, she had a party at NO Manors, where she hung out with fans and did a couple numbers. The crowd was so adoring, she could have stayed up there all night. While she was in town, Cayne worked with Davis on a commercial spoof, as well as a new project featuring LGBTQ medical personnel from South Florida. Cayne has many acting credits on her CV, the biggest of which is her role in “Dirty Sexy Money” on ABC, where she played Carmelita. She was also best friends with Caitlyn Jenner, and they were featured together on a show about Jenner’s transition. Jenner, despite being trans, is an outspoken conservative who often backs candidates that are openly hostile to the LGBTQ community. The two no longer talk, and Cayne says it was just too difficult to justify Jenner’s beliefs. That said, Cayne says if Jenner’s number shows up on caller ID, she’ll take the call. NEWS LOCAL John Hayden Photo via Candis Cayne, Facebook.

2.1.2024 • 13 THE NOH8 CAMPAIGN COMES TO SOUTH FLORIDA T he NOH8 Campaign will be coming to South Florida in February for a series of photo shoots. The campaign is known for its iconic images of people in white shirts, duct taped mouths, and a face marking that reads “NOH8.” Starting in California, NOH8 has become a symbol of silent protest for the LGBTQ community. In 2008, California Proposition 8, banning same-sex marriage, was passed. In response, NOH8 was formed. Since the legalization of same-sex marriage in 2016, NOH8 has continues to be a symbol of LGBTQ protest, embraced by many around the country. NOH8 uses still photos of people in white shirts and duct tape on their mouth, symbolizing the silencing of LGBTQ voices. These photos are taken in photo shoots at various places around the country. In February, NOH8 will be coming to multiple South Florida cities, including Lake Worth Beach, Fort Lauderdale, and Miami. In addition to south Florida, NOH8 will also host shoots in St. Petersburg, Orlando, Tallahassee, and Jacksonville. To participate in the campaign, go to the shooting location on the day and time of the shoot. Come to the shot “photo ready” wearing a clean white tee and any cosmetic you want in the photo. To get a solo photo, the cost is $40. To get a group photo, the cost is $25 per person in the photo. NEWS LOCAL Sean Conklin BELOW IS THE DATE, TIME, AND LOCATION FOR EACH SHOOT: LAKE WORTH BEACH: FEB. 17, 12-2 P.M. AT COMPASS COMMUNITY CENTER FORT LAUDERDALE: FEB. 17, 6-8 P.M. AT HAMPTON INN FT. LAUDERDALE/PLANTATION MIAMI: FEB. 18, 1-6 P.M. AT BAY 13 BREWERY AND KITCHEN SOLO PHOTOS: $40 | GROUP PHOTOS: $25/PERSON Photo via NOH8 Campaign, Facebook. OUR PAGES YOUR VOICE Send us your letters [email protected] CAN’T WAIT FOR PRINT? FOLLOW US ONLINE. OUTSFL.COM

14 • 2.1.2024 I t started with transgender athletes, then gender-affirming care – now Florida’s war on the trans community is moving to driver’s licenses. On Jan. 26, the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles published a memo that rescinds a policy allowing transgender Floridians to update the gender marker on their driver’s licenses or IDs. Activists believe this is just another attempt to erase the transgender community from public life. “Instead of fixing real problems faced by Floridians, like soaring homeowners’ insurance prices and failing public schools, they are focused on legislating away our freedoms and rights to bodily autonomy,” said Morgan Mayfaire, founder of TransSOCIAL. “Wake up, Florida! Don’t give in to panic and find a way to get involved in resisting these attacks. This new directive is just another attempt by [Gov. Ron] DeSantis to erase trans people from public life.” The memo was first reported by Erin in the Morning – a blog covering the trans community. The memo attempts to frame this as a security issue. “Permitting an individual to alter his or her license to reflect an internal sense of gender role or identity, which is neither immutable nor objectively verifiable, undermines the purpose of an identification record and can frustrate the state’s ability to enforce its laws,” the memo reads. Nadine Smith of Equality Florida also slammed DeSantis in a statement Jan. 30. DRIVING WHILE TRANS “I’VE BUILT MY LIFE ON THIS GENDER MARKER. MY CAREER, MY SOCIAL LIFE, MY SENSE OF SECURITY. THE THOUGHT THAT IT COULD BE CONSIDERED FRAUD, OR EVEN TAKEN AWAY SO MANY YEARS LATER, SEEMS IMPOSSIBLE. BUT HERE WE ARE.” - BRENDON LIES Photo via Adobe. NEWS STATE Jason Parsley DESANTIS ADMINISTRATION GOES AFTER DRIVER’S LICENSES; ATTEMPTS TO CRIMINALIZE BEING TRANS “The DeSantis administration’s obsession with scapegoating transgender Floridians has escalated into an outrageous attack that further erodes freedom and liberty in our state,” Smith wrote. “The cruelty of this kind of government overreach and intrusion should alarm every Floridian. These reckless and hateful policies are intended to make the transgender community feel unsafe and unwelcome in Florida and to bully them out of public life entirely.” There appears to be some confusion around the new policy in regards to how it will affect the trans community. Initial statements from activists suggested it would apply to any trans person with a license. But in a statement to OutSFL, the FDHSMV suggested otherwise, saying it only applies to those people seeking to update their gender on their license. “The Department has rescinded IR08 Gender Requirements, and the rescission pertains solely to replacement license requests,” Molly Best, Director of Communications, told OutSFL. “No changes have been made to the process of establishing gender on a newly issued Florida credential, governed by s. 322.08, F.S.” That point may soon be moot anyway if a bill that has been introduced becomes law, which would prohibit transgender people from obtaining a new license. Erin Reed sums it up as such: “In one of the most extreme bills of the last decade targeting transgender individuals, a new bill [...] seeks to end all legal recognition of transgender people and mandates mass biological sex affidavits for both transgender and cisgender Floridians. These affidavits would be necessary at the DMV for license renewals, enabling the state to gather records of the biological sex of all individuals in Florida who apply for driver’s licenses.” Reed adds: “Additionally, the bill would impact every law in Florida that references sex, effectively removing all legal recognition of transgender people in the state.” As if it couldn’t get worse, the FDHSMV memo makes it clear “misrepresenting” one’s gender on a driver’s license constitutes fraud. “Furthermore, misrepresenting one’s gender, understood as sex, on a driver license constitutes fraud [...] and subjects an offender to criminal and civil penalties, including cancellation, suspension, or revocation of his or her driver license,” the memo reads. Brendon Lies, a 32-year-old trans man, is thankful he left the state in 2020. “I’ve built my life on this gender marker. My career, my social life, my sense of security,” he said. “The thought that it could be considered fraud, or even taken away so many years later, seems impossible. But here we are.” Ximena Dipietro, a student activist at Florida Atlantic University who is trans, added: “The new policy is a dangerous overreach by the state government that needlessly targets and harms transgender people. I’m constantly worried about what’s the next step in the Florida government’s systemic attack on queer and trans Floridians, and this new policy only confirms this worry.” Dipietro has a right to be concerned. According to Translegislation.com, there are at least nine anti-trans bills that have been introduced in Florida so far this legislative session. There have been 402 bills across 37 states that have been introduced. “This cruel policy threatens transgender Floridians with civil and criminal penalties and blocks them from obtaining the critical government-issued identification necessary to continue their daily lives,” Smith wrote. “In Florida, tens of thousands of people have legally updated their gender marker on their driver’s license or ID. They carefully followed the rules to ensure their identification accurately reflects who they are, and they trusted this process. Now, an abrupt policy reversal has thrown their lives into chaos.” Another such bill would allow people who have been labeled as transphobic to sue for defamation. If found liable, the defendant could be fined at least $35,000. “There are a number of constitutional issues with this type of law, some of which are rooted in the fact that it appears to be content-based and treats expression differently based on the viewpoint being expressed,” said Russell Cormican, a criminal defense attorney in Fort Lauderdale. “The First Amendment does not generally permit content-based limits on speech. Hopefully, the 2024 version of this bill meets the same fate as its predecessor and is voted down. But it’s Florida, after all, so don’t hold your breath.” Rep. Anna V. Eskamani (D-Orlando) also slammed the executive branch in a post on X (formerly Twitter). “This is another gross example of how every state agency has been weaponized to attack trans people,” she wrote. “Instead of addressing the property insurance crisis, this is what our state is doing. Shameful.”

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16 • 2.1.2024 SHOW OFF YOUR TRUE COLORS AT THE PRIDE CENTER'S 8TH ANNUAL RAINBOW 5K RUN/WALK! F orget blending in – it's time to stand out and shine at The Pride Center's Rainbow 5K on Sunday, February 4, 2024, at the beautiful Holiday Park in Fort Lauderdale. This event is not just a fundraiser; it's a technicolor extravaganza of fun, fitness, and fabulousness! Whether you're a seasoned runner or just enjoy a leisurely stroll, our 3.1 mile/5K course offers breathtaking views and a welcoming atmosphere. The race starts at the main entrance of Holiday Park, ensuring a memorable experience for every participant. "Health and wellness are the cornerstones of a vibrant community. The Rainbow 5K is not just a run; it's a celebration of unity, diversity, and the pursuit of a healthier, happier life," says Robert Boo, CEO of The Pride Center at Equality Park. The Rainbow 5K is more than just a race; it's a key element of The Pride Center's commitment to wellness and health. Join the Rainbow 5K at 7:15 AM for a warm-up session courtesy of Challenge Fitness, with the race kicking off at 7:30 AM sharp. Invite your friends, family, and furry companions to join the festivities. Let's make this Rainbow 5K a celebration of love, support, and unity. Registration is a steal at just $45 for adults, and the first 300 participants receive an exclusive Rainbow 5K Run t-shirt and a dazzling medal. Your registration fee goes directly towards supporting the vital services and programs of The Pride Center at Equality Park. Join The Pride Center at Equality Park and sponsors including AHF, FIU, Peak Fitness, BSO, Challenge Fitness, FrontRunners, Seminole Hard Rock Hotel and Casino Hollywood, MODS, Visit Lauderdale, & Hunters Wilton Manors for an unforgettable morning of vibrant colors, positive energy, and a sense of community like no other. The Rainbow 5K is your chance to make a difference, one radiant step at a time. Don't miss out on this opportunity to showcase your true colors and contribute to the wellbeing of our community. Rainbow 5K 2023. Photo courtesy of The Pride Center. COMMUNITY The Pride Center VISIT WWW.PRIDECENTERFLORIDA.ORG/EVENT/RAINBOW-5K TO REGISTER AND LEARN MORE. LET'S RUN, WALK, AND CELEBRATE DIVERSITY TOGETHER! More than 50 federal hate crime violations have been tacked on to charges against the perpetrator of the Club Q shooting in Colorado Springs, Colorado. Anderson Lee Aldrich, 23, pleaded guilty to state murder charges last year and was sentenced to more than 2,000 years in prison. On Nov. 19, 2022, Aldrich entered the LGBTQ nightclub armed with a semiautomatic rifle and opened fire, killing five people and injuring 19 others. The Justice Department announced the additional hate crime charges on Jan. 16, stopping short of seeking the death penalty. “The United States is not seeking the death penalty in this case,” court documents read. “The parties have agreed that multiple concurrent life sentences plus a consecutive sentence of 190 years imprisonment is sufficient but not greater than necessary to achieve the goals of criminal justice.” The FBI said the shooting was “deliberate, malicious and premeditated” and victims were targeted due to their actual or perceived sexual orientation and gender identity. The attack ended when Aldrich, wearing a tactical vest with ballistic plates, was forcibly stopped by three patrons — a Navy officer, an Army veteran and a transgender woman. The trio disarmed and held the shooter until Colorado Springs police arrived. In court documents, Aldrich is identified as nonbinary and uses they/them pronouns, although the sincerity of this statement has been questioned. Aldrich was moved to a Wyoming prison last year due to threats against them. Five months after the tragedy, Colorado Gov. Jared Polis signed four new gun control bills into law. The new laws raised the minimum age to purchase a firearm from 18 to 21, imposed a three-day waiting period for purchases, expanded the state’s Extreme Risk Protection Order law and simplified the process for gun violence survivors to sue the gun industry. CLUB Q SHOOTER SPARED DEATH PENALTY THE FBI SAID THE SHOOTING WAS “DELIBERATE, MALICIOUS AND PREMEDITATED” AND VICTIMS WERE TARGETED DUE TO THEIR ACTUAL OR PERCEIVED SEXUAL ORIENTATION AND GENDER IDENTITY. A vigil for the victims of the Club Q shooting in Colorado. Photo via Club Q Colorado Springs, Facebook. NEWS NATIONAL John McDonald

2.1.2024 • 17 SERVING WILTON MANORS AND OAKLAND PARK FEBRUARY 1, 2024 VOLUME 2 • ISSUE 2 FACEBOOK.COM/GROUPS/WMGAZETTE NEW OWNER OF THE WELL SHARES PLANS FOR RESTAURANT WILTON MANORS Local community spirit meets international flavor. That’s the goal of the owner of The Well, the new restaurant/bar taking over the space that was, until Jan. 18, Hamburger Mary’s. John Ribson bought the space and Jason Basilico has left Scandals Saloon to be the general manager. Ribson has four The Well bars in Ontario and has 45 Wendy’s franchises. The day after closing on the deal, Ribson sat down with OutSFL to talk about the new motif, menu, and keeping a local vibe. “I thought, wouldn’t it be nice to have international branding?” He started in the bar business because he wanted to create LGBTQ safe spaces in smaller towns. His vision grew, and he is opening two more Canadian locations this year. Ribson didn’t just stumble across the By John Hayden location. He’s been a snowbird for six years and plans to retire here. “I’ve been here for six years. Three years ago, I upgraded from a condo to a house. I will be here.” He’s very familiar with the local entertainment scene and plans to continue with theme nights, local drag entertainers, and DJs. Exactly how the schedule will look is still being determined. Ribson is also keeping the staff. But, that wasn’t the original plan. “We were gonna close the place down and do some [cosmetic] work. Then reopen after a week or two.” But Ribson and Basilico seized on the opportunity to prove their commitment to community from, literally, day one. “The day before closing, we were told there were big events planned for [after the closing]. They would have to cancel. Also, this way we can keep all the staff and give them an opportunity to see if they fit in with our branding.” As for the food, Mary is out, Canadian Cuisine is in. “We’ll revamp the menu. It will be The Well menu, and we’re extending it right now.” The Well serves upscale bar fare that generally has good reviews online. Ribson is importing the Canadian classic: poutine. This north of the border delicacy is fries, topped with cheese curds and slathered in gravy. The changes will be fairly quick. A new sign will be installed any day, and revamping the inside will be done quickly. Eventually, they plan to expand their hours to include mid-afternoon and happy hour. WWW.WMGAZETTE.COM John Ribson. Photo via Facebook. HE STARTED IN THE BAR BUSINESS BECAUSE HE WANTED TO CREATE LGBTQ SAFE SPACES IN SMALLER TOWNS. HIS VISION GREW, AND HE IS OPENING TWO MORE CANADIAN LOCATIONS THIS YEAR.

18 • 2.1.2024 “You’re the first one I’ve publicly said this to,” Scott Newton said after telling OutSFL he will run for another term as Wilton Manors’ mayor. “We need to make sure the growth in Wilton Manors is stable, the stability of our infrastructure, the stability of our sea level rise. It’s not finished yet.” Newton sat down for an extensive interview to discuss immediate and long-term challenges facing the city. He just got back from Tallahassee, where he met with lawmakers who decide which projects get approved and how much the state will pay. He got a first-hand look at the numbers legislators are working with, and there are a lot of cities looking for big pieces of small pies. Lobbying for the city is nothing new for the mayor. But numbers rule more than ever. Not just the partisan numbers, but the bottom line of projects. The mayor remembers when there were more outside activities, like pickleball games before or after work. Opportunities to get to know lawmakers and teach them about your city are fading. Wilton Manors is going to need those funds. All infrastructure is in constant need of maintenance. The water/sewage system, which is reliant on Fort Lauderdale, has been a big problem in recent years. While the new pipe liners are working well, the joints and seals don’t last as long. Issues of backflow into the streets has been a problem for years, often turning Five Points into a sewage lake. “We have a company that runs cameras through the lines of the entire city. Many have been camera’d, lined, and fixed.” Water that seeps into the lines goes back to Fort Lauderdale, which charges for processing MAYOR NEWTON RUNS FOR RE-ELECTION WILTON MANORS By John Hayden Photo via Scott Newton Mayor of Wilton Manors, Facebook. “We need to make sure the growth in Wilton Manors is stable, the stability of our infrastructure, the stability of our sea level rise. It’s not finished yet.” - Scott Newton MAYOR OF WILTON MANORS 2 • FEBRUARY 1, 2024 • WWW.WMGAZETTE.COM 2520 N. Dixie Highway • Wilton Manors, FL 33305 WWW.WMGAZETTE.COM HAVE YOU JOINED THE GAZETTE’S FACEBOOK GROUP? Come join the discussion. The Gazette welcomes feedback. Email [email protected] with comments, suggestions, etc. Facebook.com/groups/WMGazette Assistant to the Editor Kimberly Swan Graphic Designers Julie Palmer Kyle Willis Craig Tuggle Graphic Design Consultant Brendon Lies Oakland Park Editor Christiana Lilly Wilton Manors Editor John Hayden Correspondents John McDonald • Rick Karlin • Aaron Kinchen Staff Photographers J.R. Davis • Carina Mask Sales & Marketing For ad placement in The Gazette, contact 954-514-7095 Publisher/Editor Jason Parsley CEO Justin Wyse Spot an error? Let us know at [email protected] it back. He also sees a very large, very expensive upgrade on the horizon: sea walls. “We have to put sea walls along every single entire spot. You only have to have one break at one or two houses, and it’s going to go everywhere.” That will be a state and federal project along with the city. Wilton is, literally, an island city and protecting it from rising seas is an allor-nothing proposition. If one section is left unfinished, devastating floods will rush in. The city has already received a sea level report that projects decades into the future. But the time and money that needs to be spent is massive, and there is an urgent need to get started. Newton is also bullish on the city’s business future. Major projects at Alibi Plaza and on 24th St. by the Metropolitan were just approved. A hotel on Dixie Hwy. is likely to get approved this year. That could mean three major projects simultaneously, all within a half mile of each other. Newton and past commissions revamped the city code and TOCs (transit-oriented corridors) to encourage new development. Newton says it shouldn’t be a problem. “I think they’re far enough away that it won’t cause too much [congestion/safety issues]. They’re never gonna close down Wilton Drive. I just want to make sure developers are mindful of the neighbors. They’re the ones who spent their money years ago.” While these will be luxury units, Newton wants people who work here to be able to live here. “We need workforce housing.” As for his political future, he wants to stay on and make sure the projects have a good start. “As a mayor, you only get two years. You get in, you get a year gone, and people start talking about what you’re going to run for again.” Vice Mayor Mike Bracchi and Commissioner Chris Caputo’s terms are up this year, and neither have announced their plans. Newton hopes they stay. “If they run, I will support them. This commission is running very well right now.” And, despite saying something similar two years ago, Newton says this is his last dance. “I’m going to finish what I think needs to be finished. I can’t do that in the next six months. I’m sure I can get it done in the next two and a half years. If I can’t, I’m gonna still stop running. I’ll be done.” THE NEWSLETTER YOU NEED. outsfl.com/newsletter THE ISLANDER A WILTON MANORS NEWSLETTER EXCLUSIVE

WWW.WMGAZETTE.COM • FEBRUARY 1, 2024 2.1.2024 • • 19 3 HARE TODAY, HARE TOMORROW COOKOUT CELEBRATES BLACK HISTORY MONTH WILTON MANORS He’s big, blue, and the perfect symbol of Wilton Manors’ commitment to public art. Thunderbunny, the art installation in Justin Flippen Park, is here to stay. On Jan. 25, the city officially held a ribbon cutting ceremony to welcome TB to Wilton Drive. “The community of Wilton Manors made this happen,” artist Hunt Slonem said after the ceremony. “I’m for art being in public places where it’s seen. It shouldn’t be in just art fairs or private collections.” Thunderbunny was installed last year and was originally on loan to the city. Its popularity, height, and quirkiness made it an instant hit with residents and viewers. “We’ve received an overwhelmingly positive response to this public art installation,” Mayor Scott Newton said. “Our residents and visitors love to stop and take pictures of Thunderbunny and share it with others, which is what public art is all about. Thunderbunny is bright, colorful, and stands out, just like our Island City.” The blue, 13-foot, glass mosaic bunny rises Comfort food that takes you back, picnic games that bring smiles, and an afternoon of community. The Cookout: A Black History Celebration, kicks off Black History Month in Wilton Manors with a day at Mickel Park on Feb. 3, from 1-6 p.m. Now in its third year of celebrating Black Cultural and Black Excellence in the LGBTQ community, the event helps people focus on the importance of Black history to shape a better future. Everything for the event; food, parking, entranced, is free. The only exception is drinks. One hundred percent of proceeds go to this year’s beneficiary, New Era Lodge No. 69, a Fort Lauderdale Chapter of the Prince Hall Masonic Origin. It is the first of the 300-year-old Prince Hall Masonry to have an openly gay and Black Worshipful Master, Ederick Johnson, also the youngest of leaders. The chapter’s mission is dedicated By John Hayden By John Hayden from ground level and appears to be keeping an eye on the shenanigans of Wilton Drive. It’s the latest of many public art displays in the city. Slonem has created rabbit-based art for years. It is his sign in the Chinese zodiac, and he paints about eight hours a day. At one point, he decided he wanted to make threedimensional versions. “The rabbit has so much connected to it from Alice in Wonderland and other great literary references,” Slonem said. to the work of HIV Prevention, Orphans, and the Black Community. There will be a Spades tournament and a Dominoes tournament, each comes with a $150 prize. Also, for the first time, there will be a special Kids Zone, sponsored by IKEA. Sponsors for the event include CAN Community Health, Pub On the Drive, Sysco, and LIT Bar. Photo by Carina Mask. Photo via Pexels. THUNDERBUNNY IS HERE TO STAY

204 • • FEBRUARY 1, 2024 2.1.2024 • WWW.WMGAZETTE.COM WILTON ART WALK TURNS THE CORNER WILTON MANORS Crafts, cocktails, quilts and more. Every month during the season, hundreds walk Wilton Drive on the third Saturday of the month. From cool bracelets to stunning paintings to books, the best of local art is on display and on sale. But get to the end of Wilton Drive at Five Points, and the party continues. In January, for the first time, the art walk made the hairpin turn on to Dixie Hwy. This stretch of the road has quickly gone from a burgeoning arts district to an artistic destination. At least three new art galleries have opened in the area over the past year. Jacki Rosen, of Rosen Fine Art, hung up her sign last year and is emblematic of how welcoming the community is. “I’m what is called an ‘outsider artist,’ someone who doesn’t have formal training.” You wouldn’t know it when you pop into her gallery. The works are thought-provoking and professional. Rosen also teaches a class By John Hayden Photo via Joe Picasso's, Facebook. in her studio and relishes working with beginners. Next door, Fierce Art Gallery Studio, Sherman Yee celebrated his first art walk and showcased queer narratives. “The exhibit changes every month, but the concept with the artists and queer art stays. There’s a lot of people who want this type of art, but it’s not in a lot of galleries.” Across the street at Hotspots! Happening Out Art Gallery with Dennis Dean curates exhibits to fit the time of year. October featured art of breast cancer survivors, November was trans artists. “The location is great for neighbors to walk over. The quality of the art gets the buzz out.” If you work up an appetite with all the walking, food is abundant. Union Kitchen sits in the heart of Dixie developments. A new gifting shop, Delizioso, stays open late and keeps the party rocking. A guitarist played outside, and the owners offered samples of Italian wines, cheeses, and appetizers. SUPPORT OUR JOURNALISM donations to OutSFL can be made here: outsfl.com/donate

2.1.2024 • 21 The 8th Annual DIVERSITY HONORS Cocktail Reception • Seated Dinner & Awards • Live Music Stoli After-Party at The Guitar Hotel Tickets: DiversityHonors.org Honoring those who are transforming lives by living authentically and advancing inclusiveness. Benefitting These Organizations: Presenting Sponsor Platinum Sponsor Saturday, March 9 • 7pm Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Hollywood Grand Ballroom Don’t Miss the Event of the Year! 2024 HONOREES Belinda Carlisle Harvey Milk Medal Spencer Battiest Harvey Milk Medal Mark Hunter Seymour The Pride Center at Equality Park Alan Schubert Award Tatiana Williams Diversity Honors Award Gay Men’s Chorus of South Florida Diversity Honors Award Special Guest Performer Debby Holiday

22 • 2.1.2024 AUTHENTIC CONNECTIONS DATING CAN FEEL LIKE A MINEFIELD. BETWEEN GRAPPLING WITH MY OWN IDENTITY AND FINDING SOMEONE WHO TRULY GETS ME, I’M OFTEN LEFT FEELING OVERWHELMED. WHAT ARE SOME REAL, DOWN-TO-EARTH STRATEGIES FOR QUEER FOLKS LIKE ME WHO ARE TRYING TO NAVIGATE THE COMPLEXITIES OF DATING AND FIND MEANINGFUL CONNECTIONS? Navigating the dating pool as a queer individual can be both exhilarating and daunting, especially in a world with so many options and opportunities. Dating can be filled with diverse experiences and finding meaningful connections requires not just vulnerability but an understanding of what your wants and needs are as an individual. As a queer sex therapist, I’ve worked with many individuals who are navigating the dating scene and need some tips. In fact, I have a whole webinar about dating and early-stage relationships on Eroticacademy.net. But let’s delve into some tips that are not just practical but can truly impact your dating game. Like I said it’s important to understand your wants and needs as an individual, so that starts with embracing who you are. Your queer identity is a beautiful part of your story. Owning this identity is empowering and sets the foundation for relationships built on authenticity. When you’re true to yourself, you attract people who value you for who you are, creating a space for genuine connections. Knowing yourself is also knowing your wants and boundaries. Clarity about what you’re looking for in a relationship is crucial. This clarity helps you navigate the dating world more effectively, aligning you with people who share your relationship goals. Similarly, understanding and communicating your boundaries is key to maintaining respect and consent in your interactions. It seems that most dating happens these days through dating apps, and using the right dating platform can make a significant difference. Opt for LGBTQ-friendly apps and websites that offer a safer and more inclusive space. This can enhance your chances of meeting likeminded individuals and reduce the likelihood of encountering discrimination. Talk to friends and see what apps they use and where they have found success. When you’re at the stage of dating where you are ready to meet the individual in person, remember to prioritize your safety, even in Photo via Adobe. Kelly Ghweinem, LCSW CST VIEWPOINTS OPINION Kelly Ghweinem, LCSW CST is a queer-affirming therapist & business owner who champions the LGBTQ+ community through activism & advocacy utilizing a queer, feminist, anti-racist lens. A University at Buffalo graduate, Kelly came to Fort Lauderdale in 2022. Visit velvetcollective.org. Contact Kelly at [email protected]. places or spaces you feel are queer-friendly. Prioritizing your safety is non-negotiable. This includes practical steps like meeting in public places and informing a friend about your plans. It also means listening to your instincts and removing yourself from situations that feel unsafe. So, once you’re on a date, how do you make it a positive experience? Approach first dates with a sense of adventure and openness. Whether it’s a simple coffee meet-up or a walk in the park, choose activities that encourage conversation and mutual understanding. When you’re on dates, ask questions about your date, be curious about them and actually listen to what they say so you can get to know them as a person and not rely on the idea of who they are based on assumptions. Remember, first impressions are important, but they’re not everything. Developing a meaningful connection takes time. Focus on cultivating a relationship based on shared interests, mutual respect, and emotional compatibility. This slow and steady approach can lead to more lasting and fulfilling relationships. Effective communication is the bedrock of any relationship and starts from the very first date. It will look different as you get to know each other and feel more comfortable opening up, but this type of communication involves expressing your feelings, desires, and concerns openly. This two-way communication fosters deeper understanding and connection. In all interactions, respect and consent are essential. This not only ensures a positive dating experience but also builds a foundation of trust and safety for a healthy relationship. Rejection, while never pleasant, is an inevitable part of dating. It’s important to view rejection as a natural process rather than a reflection of your worth. Learning to handle rejection with grace can lead you closer to finding a compatible partner. The queer dating landscape can come with its unique set QUEERLY BELOVED 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. QUEER DATING IN A COMPLEX WORLD of challenges, including societal prejudices and misunderstandings. Being mentally prepared for these challenges and having strategies to cope with them is important. If you are struggling to cope with rejection or the challenges of dating, rely on your support system for help. Reach out to friends, family, or even a therapist to build your dating skills. There are also support groups for dating, especially if you are new to queer dating and don’t really know the rules of the road. These tips are designed to guide you through the complexities and joys of queer dating. By embracing your identity, prioritizing safety and communication, and enjoying the journey, you can navigate the dating world in a way that is true to yourself and open to the possibilities of love and connection. And if you’re eager to dive deeper into the world of dating and early-stage relationships, I’ll be co-hosting a webinar that covers even more ground on these topics. It’s a fantastic opportunity to explore more strategies, share experiences, and ask questions in a supportive environment. You can find out more and register for the webinar at www.eroticacademy. net. OUR COLUMNISTS ONLINE! JESSE'S JOURNAL by Jesse Monteagudo ASK JOHN PORTER by John Porter HOT DISH by Rick Karlin READ MORE AT OUTSFL.COM SCREEN QUEEN by Gregg Shapiro BETWEEN THE COVERS by Terri Schlichenmeyer

2.1.2024 • 23

24 • 2.1.2024 LAST WEEK'S TOP 5 ONLINE STORIES NEW OWNER BUYS HAMBURGER MARY’S; TRANSFORMS IT INTO THE WELL by John Hayden DELOSER: DESANTIS DROPS OUT OF PRESIDENTIAL RACE by John McDonald 3 PARKING GARAGE AND NEW COMPLEX COMING TO ALIBI PLAZA by John Hayden 4 ANOTHER EAGLE EYES SOUTH FLORIDA by John Hayden 5 SUNSHINE PRIDE HOUSE HELPING LGBTQ YOUTH by John Hayden READ MORE AT OUTSFL.COM ADJUDICATED RAPIST BRINGS TRUMPED-UP CLAIMS AGAINST FANI WILLIS Michael Roman, an indicted criminal co-defendant in Donald Trump’s Georgia election interference case, has filed a 127-page motion to dismiss and disqualify Fulton County DA Fani Willis, her outside counsel Nathan Wade, and the entire Fulton County prosecutors’ office from the case on the grounds that Willis and Wade are having a consensual affair. Roman, Trump’s former Director of Election Day operations, was indicted along with Trump and others on a full range of election felonies, including impersonating public government officials, forgery, pressuring officials to lie, and supporting false electors to falsify Georgia’s election results. Roman’s motion is defeated by its own attached exhibits. Trump, whose trial counsel struggles with exhibits in general, has now joined the motion. It appears Attorney Alina Habba can’t read exhibits either. A TRUMPED-UP CLAIM THAT WADE WAS HIRED WITHOUT COUNTY AUTHORITY Roman devotes the bulk of real estate in his motion to the claim that Willis hired Wade without authorization from Fulton County. Exhibit C, attached to his motion to disqualify, is a fully executed Fulton County document titled, “A resolution authorizing funding for additional personnel for the office of Fulton County District Attorney personnel,” the exact authorization Roman claims is lacking. Two months after the Fulton County commissioners passed it, Willis retained Wade. The signed county authorization says no fewer than four times that Fulton County authorized the appropriation to help Ms. Willis to address Georgia’s rising crime rate, which would include any type of felony, including election felonies. MAINSTREET MEDIA ISN’T HELPING When Roman’s filing hit the court, main street media pounced. Headlines claimed that Willis and Wade were taking “lavish vacations” at “taxpayers’ expense.” Details about their luxurious vacations swirled on the front pages of nearly every major publisher. It seems no one in the media bothered to read the brief before co-opting someone else’s headline. If it isn’t obvious, any employee or contractor who works for county government, including Photo via Fani Willis, Facebook. prosecutors and outside counsel, are always paid with taxpayer funds. Roman’s claim that Willis and Wade were “profiting” and “vacationing” at “taxpayer expense” just means they got paid from tax dollars for doing the job they were hired to do. They can spend their income however they choose; they can spend it on Skittles and kittens if they want. WHERE IS THE CONFLICT OF INTEREST, ANYWAY? MSM headlines keep repeating Roman’s unexamined claim that Willis has a “conflict of interest.” A romantic affair with someone on the same team doesn’t create a conflict of interest, nor does traveling together. Indictment-adjacent, the “conflict” claim just gives Fox News and right-wing pundits a plausible substitution to avoid discussing hard evidence against Trump. The motion waxes on about Willis’ alleged attempt to “defraud the public” by personally benefiting “from an undisclosed conflict of interest” without identifying exactly where Willis’ conflict of interest lies. Georgia’s Rules of Professional Conduct instruct that a lawyer shall not represent a client “if there is a significant risk that the lawyer’s own interests … will materially and adversely affect the representation of the client.” But the client here is Fulton County, not Roman. The county’s interest is in securing a just conviction for Trump and his coconspirators if that is where the facts and law lead. Willis and Wade want the same thing their client wants; they don’t have their own interests which conflict with their client’s interest. There is no “conflict” where attorneys and their client want the same outcome. WADE WAS WILLIS’ THIRD CHOICE The motive presented in the disqualification motion is that Willis hired Wade because they were involved romantically, and she wanted to benefit from his hourly compensation. It’s a sloppy and unsupported theory. VIEWPOINTS OPINION Sabrina Haake THE HAAKE TAKE Read more from Sabrina Haake is a 25-year litigator specializing in 1st this author here and 14th Amendment defense. Her columns also appear in RawStory, Chicago Tribune, Salon, State Affairs, and Howey Politics. She and her wife split their time between South Florida and Chicago. Follow her on Substack. Willis tried to hire two other outside and prominent attorneys before she offered the work to Wade. Willis first asked former Georgia Gov. Roy Barnes, but Barnes declined. Gabe Banks, a former federal prosecutor, was next, and also turned Willis down. Both men were concerned about safety, with Barnes asking, “Hypothetically speaking, do you want a bodyguard following you around for the rest of your life?” The fact that Willis only hired Wade after two other prominent attorneys turned her down wholly defeats Roman’s “defraud the public” by “hiring her boyfriend” claim. A PARTING SHOT AT THE GLARING DOUBLE STANDARD Last summer, a jury found Trump liable for sexual assault, the legal equivalent of rape, yet Republicans still consider him qualified to serve as President of the United States. Under Trump ethos, a man can rape a woman, and brag about grabbing her genitalia without permission, and still occupy the highest office in the nation. But a woman in a consensual affair with outside counsel is disqualified from service as a county prosecutor. Got it. Sabrina Haake discusses the motion to disqualify Fani Willis on the Thom Hartmann show on YouTube.

2.1.2024 • 25 and and RESPECTING THE DEAD Hello and good morning. I wanted to commend you and express my gratitude to you for writing such a thoughtful and intriguing depiction about Jason Marous. You managed to convey the impact he made in his life, the sense of despair and tragedy that has been left in the wake of his passing, and why his story matters. I sincerely appreciate that you immersed yourself into this story. The words you weaved together to share his family and friends’ testament about Jason demonstrated that you cared and were absolutely the best person to write this piece about Jason. Please send my warm regards and my sincerest gratitude to your editor Jason Parsley as well for taking my initial request to take and tell this story. - JEFF ROBERTSON VIEWPOINTS LETTER TO THE EDITOR Jason Marous (left) with his father, Chip Marous. Courtesy of Chip Marous. PBCHRC HOSTS ANNUAL WINTER FÊTE T he Palm Beach County Human Rights Council, Florida’s oldest non-partisan LGBTQ+ advocacy group, hosted its annual Winter Fête fundraiser on Jan. 13. The fundraiser was held in the home of two PBCHRC donors in Boca Raton. The event boasted appearances by most of Palm Beach County’s elected officials and included a series of performances from a local troupe. The organization hosts two fundraisers each year: The Winter Fête and the Summer Soirée. Each event is held in a beautiful location and gives attendees an opportunity to mingle with elected officials. This year’s event had notable appearances from Rep. Lois Frankel; Mayor Keith James of West Palm Beach; Mayor Ty Penserga from Boynton Beach; Mayor Betty Resch from Lake Worth Beach; Commissioner Gregg Weiss from the Palm Beach County Board of County Commissioners, and other city elected officials and government appointees. The event also boasted a performance group. This group provided entertainment throughout the night with different performances. While one member was performing a dance with a flaming torch, others were greeting guests and taking photos in extravagant dresses reminiscent of beautiful birds. Till further, performers danced atop a ring, balancing and hanging with acrobatic precision. PBCHRC was founded in 1988 with the goals of ending discrimination abused on gender and sexuality. Since its inception, it has been responsible for the implementation of pro-LGBTQ+ policies across the 39 cities in PBC. NEWS PALM BEACH Sean Conklin Some of the PBCHRC Board at the Winter Fête 2024. Photo via Facebook.

26 • 2.1.2024 TO-DO LIST CULTURE FOOD HEART TO HEART L ooking to impress your Valentine? Look no further than THE KATHERINE, which will be offering heart-pumping Valentine’s Day specials. Options will include a chef’s selection of libido oysters with bleeding pomegranate mignonette; truffledusted tuna crispy rice with spicy mayo and eel sauce; and spiced wild mushroom and duck lasagna. VIZCAYA MUSEUM AND GARDENS invites couples to an unforgettable evening under the stars with “Musical Vizcaya with FIU’s Symphony Orchestra” featuring film scores performed by the 50-piece FIU Symphony Orchestra. The best part? Tickets are only $15 per person at vizcaya.org. Pack a picnic dinner for a perfect romantic evening. LE COLONIAL is known for its elegant ambiance, romantic cocktails, and upscale French-Vietnamese cuisine. For the Valentine’s Day special, guests can select one small plate or raw bar item, one large plate, and one dessert for a prix fixe of $115. Have a “Lady and the Tramp” moment with ELISABETTA’S featured Valentine’s menu item, Caccio e Pepe. The traditional Roman pasta dish features spaghetti chitarra, pecorino Romano, and freshly cracked black pepper, served at both locations, Delray, and West Palm Beach. WILD THYME in the Atlantic Hotel on the 5th-floor pool terrace will host dinner under the stars four-course prix fixe menu with two seatings at 6 and 8:15 p.m. for $99 at wildthymeoceanside.com. Sushi-loving couples should stop by SAIKO in Boca Raton to sample its Valentine’s Day special, spicy tuna biscuit. Because nothing says love like spicy tuna, fresh jalapeno, wasabi mayo, and eel sauce, on top of a crispy rice cracker. LOUIE BOSSI’S Valentine’s special is tagliolini al Limone; fresh cut pasta, Meyer lemon, mascarpone, yellow tomatoes, parmigiana, chopped pistachios, and basil. It will make you pucker up for a kiss. CITY OYSTER & SUSHI BAR is celebrating Valentine’s Day with a special of lobster risotto, served with a demi-bottle of PiperHeidsieck Champagne for $68. Have Valentine’s Day your way at FLEMING’S STEAKHOUSE. The upscale chain is offering a three-course prix fixe menu for two featuring a prime surf & turf that includes a shareable 28 oz. prime bone-in New York strip, 6 oz filet mignon, crabstuffed lobster tails, and mushroom sauté. The menu also features oysters Rockefeller and shrimp cocktail, along with a dark chocolate torte. For two guests, it’s $230. If your palate prefers its own journey, they have entrée options such as filet mignon & crab-stuffed shrimp or Chilean Sea Bass. An event advertised on the LGBT Meet Up app invited couples only to a romantic Valentine’s Day dinner at LA VERANDAItalian restaurant in Pompano Beach, although the restaurant’s website shows nothing about the event. As always, best to call first. Rick Karlin HOT DISH 10 WAYS TO TREAT YOUR VALENTINE 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]. SIDE DISH A TASTE OF ASIA AT MORIKAMI GARDENS The Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens in Delray Beach will host an evening under the stars as it presents “A Taste of Asia: A Culinary and Cultural Experience” on Saturday, Feb. 17. Relish the vibrant flavors and rich traditions of Asian culinary culture in a Japanese garden setting during this special inaugural event. Guests will be given a culinary “passport” they can use to savor Asian-inspired cuisine from celebrated South Florida restaurants while enjoying fine wine, sake, and whiskey. PARTICIPATING RESTAURANTS INCLUDE: COCO SUSHI LOUNGE & BAR CORNELL CAFÉ GAIJIN TAIYAKI ITO EN KAPOW NOODLE BAR KEN ROSE CATERING LEMONGRASS ASIAN BISTRO NIIGATA SAKE SELECTIONS NOBU MIAMI PALM BEACH MEATS PHAT BOY SUSHI KITCHEN RAMEN LAB EATERY SUSHI YASU TANAKA SUSHI BY BOŪ THE SEA KITCHEN YAKITORI SUSHI HOUSE WINEBOW The proceeds from the evening benefit Morikami’s Education, Exhibitions, Expansion, and Emotional well-being programs. Tickets are $200 per person and can be purchased at morikami.org/taste-of-asia. Photo via Le Colonial Delray Beach, Facebook. Photo via Fleming's Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar, Facebook. Photo via Nobu Miami, Facebook. TO-DO LIST [email protected] Compiled by Rick Karlin GRUMPY OLD MEN GLOW Delray Beach Playhouse debuts “Grumpy Old Men” tonight running through Feb. 25 and The Eagle in Wilton Manors is all aglow with “Radiance” featuring DJ Drew. FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 2 NUNS, PORK & DANCING BOYS Slow Burn Theatre Company opens “Sister Act,” running through Feb.18. Ramrod holds Pig Dance at Ramrod with DJ Hukill, while Le Boy celebrates its ninth anniversary. SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 3 DEAR STEVE, Aventura Arts Center hosts “Sincerely, Sondheim: A Musical Love Letter to Stephen Sondheim,” featuring Nicholas Rodriguez, direct from his performance in the Tony Award-winning revival of Sondheim’s “Company.” SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 4 PLAYERS WILL BE PLAYIN’ Euchre players meet every Monday at 7 p.m. at Scandals. A $10 buy-in offers a chance at prizes and contributions go towards Wilton Manors’ Pet Project. MONDAY, FEBRUARY 5 RIB TICKLING GOOD It’s prime rib night at Tropics Grille where $24.99 gets you a big ol’ slab of meat. Speaking of slabs of meat. There’ll be some hotties at Lit Trivia Tuesdays now that it’s combined with their “ITB Night,” where those in the hospitality get half-off drinks after 8 p.m. TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 6 DANCE 10, LOOKS 10 “Dance Edie Dance” at Hunters. Edie is best known from Cirque du Soleil’s hit show Zumanity where she starred as the emcee, the “Mistress of Sensuality.” Before that, she was a fixture in New York City where she racked up a bevy of awards including Best Drag Queen and Entertainer of the Year at the Glammy Awards. THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 1 [email protected] LEPAIGE V LEPAIGE At Monkey Bar-Alibi, try your hand at karaoke and then “Strip for a Tip,” both hosted by Missy Meyakie Lepaige. Meanwhile, the similarly named Jaxson Lepaige, hosts open mic at Wilton Manors’ newest bar, The Well, with $4 Tito’s for liquid courage. WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 7

2.1.2024 • 27 “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. NICHOLAS EPISCOPAL CHURCH 1111 E. Sample Road, Pompano Beach 954-942-5887 | StNicholasFL.org Sunday Service 9:30AM 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 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. 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 WONDERING WHERE YOU FIT IN? Holy Grill Mobile Feeding Ministry BINGO! Sundays 2pm Thursdays 1pm

28 • 2.1.2024 WILTON DRIVE THE HEART AND SOUL OF WILTON MANORS Wilton Drive is a one-mile segment of State Road 811 within the city of Wilton Manors. It begins at Five Points and ends at the Fort Lauderdale border, just north of Fort Lauderdale High School. I first visited Wilton Drive in 1980, while I was living at SIR Apartments in nearby Dixie Highway. I washed my clothes in a laundromat at 2365 Wilton Drive, an address now occupied by Wilton Collective. Other than some restaurants, and shops here and there, the Drive did not make much of an impression on me. Then things changed. During the four decades since 1980, this magnificent mile has become a center of social life, entertainment, commerce, and tourism, and not just for LGBT people. Cynthia Thuma wrote about those changes in her 2005 Images of America book “Wilton Manors”: “A 1998 cover story in City Link magazine declared to the outside world what most Wilton Manors residents already knew: the city was becoming increasingly attractive to gay people looking for a quiet, tolerant community to settle in. One of the pioneers at the front of the influx was George Kessinger, who, in April 1997, opened Georgie’s Alibi, a restaurant, sports bar, and meeting spot for the gay community.” Meanwhile, “entrepreneur Tony Dee bought Chardee’s in 1990, refurbished it, and bought in live entertainment nightly.” Soon the Drive attracted other LGBT-owned or friendly bars, restaurants, shops, and professional offices like Dean Trantalis’s law firm. The Wilton Drive Improvement District (wiltondrive.org) describes the Drive as “One Mile. Endless Possibilities.” “Wilton Drive has come a long way from its days as a sleeping small town road. It’s now a bustling destination renowned for its diverse entertainment, arts, shopping, and dining.” It has 118 LGBTQ-owned or friendly businesses, including bars, eateries, art galleries, shops, boutiques, day spas, etc. As the heart and soul of Wilton Manors, the Drive is the center of one of America’s leading gayborhoods, despite being part of an increasingly homophobic State of Florida. If Wilton Manors is “a second hometown” for South Florida’s LGBT community, it is also a tourist magnet for queer people from around the world. Many of the folks who stay at Wilton Drive’s guest houses, eat at its restaurants, drink or dance at its pubs or clubs, shop at its stores, admire its private or public art or participate in its activities do not live in the Island City, or even in the United States. Outcoast.com praised the Drive’s LGBT-owned businesses as “a must-visit for your visit. See drag shows, mingle with other gay travelers, and visit some of the most established and celebrated gayfriendly restaurants in the city.” VisitFlorida. com, another travel site, said that Wilton “offers a small-town feel coupled with bigcity fun.” It’s no wonder that the Drive was voted Broward’s Best Attraction, for residents and tourists alike. Wilton Drive. Photo by Carina Mask. Jesse Monteagudo JESSE’S JOURNAL CULTURE OPINION Read more from this author here Jesse Monteagudo is a freelance writer and journalist. He has been an active member of South Florida’s LGBT community for more than four decades and has served in various community organizations. SUPPORT OUR JOURNALISM donations to OutSFL can be made here: outsfl.com/donate

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30 • 2.1.2024 BRÉVO THEATRE ANNOUNCES 2024 SEASON ‘THE PURSUIT OF HAPPINESS’ The cast of volunteers who make every Brévo Production a memorable one. Photo via brevotheatre.org. ENTERTAINMENT THEATER Rick Karlin Since its first production “Between Two Worlds” in 2021, Brévo Theatre has made an impression on South Florida’s theater scene. Its first fully booked season offers numerous interesting productions. The season kicks off with “T.M. PRIDE’S: EMANCIPATION BLUES” written, directed, and choreographed by Brévo cofounder Terrence “TM” Pride at the Pompano Beach Cultural Center on Feb. 11. “Emancipation Blues” is a ballet that celebrates blues music and the trials and triumphs of America’s journey to freedom. Sounds of jazz underscore the African American pursuit of liberty and justice, from the civil rights movement to Black Lives Matter. Featuring West African, modern, jazz, tap, and hip-hop movements, dancers will traverse through historical moments in history with poetic narration. “TALES IN LIVING COLOR” directed by Lowell Williams at the OurFund Foundation Hall as part of its “Freshly Rooted” series, for World Theatre Day, March 27, is slated to amplify the voices of new and seasoned LGBTQ playwrights and actors in the community by highlighting new works in workshop productions. “FROM US WITH LOVE” at Green Art Gallery at Green Library FIU on May 2, combines the lost art of letter writing with community engagement in a visual and emotionally conscious display of love letters. A workshop production of “ME & MY MIAMI” written by Patdro Harris will be held on May 18 at the African Heritage Cultural Arts Center. In this play, Rosa, Fuquan, and Thomas speak their truth from their perspective, about family and Miami. All the families learn something about themselves and the importance of their words. “INTIMATE,” written, directed, and choreographed by Terrence “TM” Pride will be performed at the Pompano Beach Cultural Center on June 7 as part of the company’s “Dans Le Avant-Garde” series, featuring choreopoems about male vulnerability and intimacy, which explores the complexities of male emotional, mental, and physical capacities through three states of being. Men embody Fatherhood, Manhood, and Brotherhood, challenging societal norms of how men are supposed to appear. “DISSONANCE” written by Marci J. Duncan and Kerri Sandell and directed by Dr. James Webb will be performed from June 14-16 at Arts Garage in Delray and Broward College. “Dissonance” asks the question, can a Black woman and a White woman have an honest, civil, and candid conversation about race? Can a friendship survive the brutal honesty of differing experiences? Angela and Lauren have been friends for more than 20 years. They met in graduate school, became godmothers to each other’s children, and are now starting a new business. As they open their coffee cafe in a historic Black neighborhood in Pensacola, Florida, they uncover deeply held perceptions that threaten to dismantle their friendship. Dissonance is a heart-warming conversation that explores the national hurt following George Floyd’s murder and how it impacts both Black and white American women. “YOUNG, GIFTED & BRAVE – THEATRE FOR YOUTH” at Broward College on July 26-27 brings together a diverse multicultural cast of performers, the majority of whom are currently in high school or recently graduated, displaying their talents after completing Brévo Theatre’s summer program dedicated to cultivating young professional artists. “BLACK NATIVITY” by Langston Hughes, from Dec. 5-8, directed and choreographed by Terrence “TM” Pride, at Miami’s Sandrell Rivers Theater, is an African American telling of the nativity story, based on the son-play written by Langston Hughes. The show recreates the journey of Mary and Joseph, resplendent in African costumes, to Bethlehem, accompanied by a rousing repertoire of spirituals. The combined African American viewpoint and gospel music make “Black Nativity” a truly unique and entertaining theatrical experience. FOR MORE INFORMATION GO TO BREVOTHEATRE.ORG. DEAR STEPHEN Aventura Arts Center hosts “Sincerely, Sondheim: A Musical Love Letter to Stephen Sondheim” on Feb. 4 at 7 p.m., featuring Nicholas Rodriguez, direct from his performance in the Tony Award-winning revival of Sondheim’s “Company.” The evening celebrates the lyrical and musical genius of the late composer of “Sunday in the Park with George,” “Into the Woods,” and who also wrote lyrics to such classics as “Gypsy” and “West Side Story.” In addition to singing selections from Sondheim’s shows, Rodriguez pulls from the thousands of handwritten letters to fans and colleagues to use Sondheim’s own words to explore the composer’s fascinating relationships with legends such as Oscar Hammerstein. Buy tickets at aventuracenter.org. TRIPLE A Alvin Ailey at Arsht Center kicks off Black History Month on Feb. 2 celebrating the African American cultural experience through a pre-show activation on the plaza in partnership with BOMA (Black Owned Media Alliance). Beginning at 6 p.m., Step Into Dance – A Tribute to Black History Month will feature a Revelations Celebration workshop where the community can learn choreography from the masterpiece followed by performances from the Florida Memorial University marching band, dance, and step teams. Admission to the pre-show activation is free with a ticket to that evening’s performance. POP ART David LaChapelle: Happy Together,” will be on display at VISU Contemporary Art Gallery through March 2. In this new exhibition, his first-ever solo exhibition in Miami Beach, LaChapelle, known for his Day-Glo-hued, semi-surrealist, visual bacchanals, reflects on his wild journey from New York City street kid to pop-art icon. LaChapelle has photographed some of the most recognizable figures in film, music, art, politics, and sports, including Aaliyah, Amy Winehouse, Andy Warhol, Britney Spears, Cher, Christina Aguilera, David Beckham, David Bowie, Doja Cat, Dolly Parton, Dua Lipa, Lady Gaga, Muhammad Ali, Naomi Campbell, Nicki Minaj, Tupac Shakur, Whitney Houston, and many others. UPCOMING CONCERTS, THEATER SHOWS, & PRIDE TOURS. OH, MY! Nicholas Rodriguez in “Sincerely, Sondheim". Photo via aventuracenter.org. Rick Karlin ENTERTAINMENT CULTURE CORNER OLD CHESTNUTS & NEW WORKS Maltz Jupiter Theatre announced its new season and it’s an interesting mixture of old favorites with some interesting new pieces. They kick off with “Deceived,” an adaptation of the psychological thriller, “Gaslight.” Then comes “Once,” “Frozen,” and “The Lehman Trilogy,” Maltz closes the season with an old favorite, “Guys & Dolls.” Buy tickets at jupitertheatre.org. STEP INTO MY TIME MACHINE An immersive “Stonewall IN Stonewall” experience will be kicking off Pride Month in a time machine of sorts. The first-of-its-kind immersive, interactive experience will see the Stonewall National Museum, Archives, and Library transformed into the gritty, historic Stonewall Inn in New York City with “The Stonewall New York Experience” this summer. Every day, visitors to the interactive experience will be transported to June 28, 1969, in the hours before the historic Stonewall Riots, the galvanizing force sparking the LGBTQ human rights movement across the globe. As visitors enter, they will walk across the “smoky” Stonewall Inn to the iconic bar as number one hits of 1969, such as “Aquarius” play from the jukebox. As they pull up a seat at the bar, a virtual bartender in 1969 drag will chat about the goings-on of Christopher Street that day. Visitors can then stroll over to shoot some pool and listen to a virtual, videorecorded bar patron vent about the challenges and frustrations of the gay community during 1969, and the sanctuary provided by bars such as the Stonewall Inn. Visitors will have photo ops, such as alongside a Stonewall New York neon sign. More details will be announced closer to the launch. The waitlist sign-up will open on March 15. After the launch in Fort Lauderdale, the plan is to have the Stonewall Experience travel to all 50 states. Find out more at stonewall-museum.org.

2.1.2024 • 31Photo by Carina Mask. I n a complex and competitive field, Jimmy Cunningham rises to the top. Cunningham is your choice for best realtor in Broward County. “I’m very grateful to our community for trusting me with their real estate needs for almost 15 years,” said Cunningham, a licensed Florida real estate agent since 2009. Cunningham works for RE/MAX and, in 2018 was inducted into the company’s hall of fame. In 2022, Cunningham received the Legacy Award from the Fort Lauderdale Chamber of Commerce. “Now more than ever, it is necessary to work with a seasoned realtor that is able to navigate this constantly changing market,” Cunningham said. Currently, the market is somewhat in limbo with low inventory and flat pricing, Cunningham said. “I see that trend continuing with so much uncertainty in the United States, and the rest of the world.” South Florida’s desirable status is the upside, Cunningham said. “Our location is a world-class destination which will continue to attract new purchasers and new investment.” John McDonald FROM THE NEWSROOM RUNNER-UP: ANDREW VERDI OUTSFL.COM/YCA2023 JIMMY CUNNINGHAM BEST REALTOR IN BROWARD COUNTY Best Restaurants Best Fine Dining Best Breakfast Best Kept Secret Best Dessert Best BBQ Best Asian Best Vegetarian Best Menu Item Best Bar for Country Music Best Drink Best Brewery Best Workout Best Local Attraction Best Farmer's Market Best Adult Store Best Local Celebrity Best Local Straight Ally Best Local Actor Best Local DJ Best Bartenders Best Servers Best Business Owners Best Local Chef Best Local Entertainers Best Bartisa Best Date Night Spot Best HIV Related Nonprofit YOUR CHOICE AWARDS ONLINE CHECK OUT THE FULL LIST OF WINNERS FROM BROWARD, PALM BEACH, MIAMI-DADE, AND THE KEYS ON STANDS NOW Vol. 1 Issue 3 • DECEMBER 2023 - JANUARY 2024 • OUTSFL.COM YOUR CHOICE AWARDS Fort Lauderdale PRESENTED BY OUTSFL YOUR CHOICE AWARDS

32 • 2.1.2024 I sland City’s Stage’s production of “Which Way to the Stage” features four flawless performances by seasoned actors, but the show belongs to the two leads, Matthew Buffalo and Sofia Porcel, as the obsessedwith-Idina-Menzel-not-quite-making-it-asactors, Jeff and Judy. The first act flies by with lots of inside theater jokes and campy, bitchy dialogue that keeps the audience laughing. Clay Cartland (maturing from young hottie to hot daddy nicely) makes an appearance mid-act one as Mark, another actor Judy meets at an audition, who puts the moves on her. Gaby Tortoledo is also in this scene as a bimbo, who is not all she seems, in one of the numerous roles she brings to life throughout the show. Judy takes Mark to see Jeff’s drag show, where he is debuting his tribute to Idina Menzel, and suddenly we begin to question whether Mark is as straight as we thought he was. He’s certainly into Jeff’s act; a campy medley of Idina’s greatest hits that brings down the house for the first act closer. It’s to playwright Ana Nogueira’s and director Michael Leeds’ credit that the first act zips by. In the second act, things get messy, plotwise. It’s after the show, Mark and Jeff are hanging out in the bar after-hours. Judy left in the middle of Jeff’s show (which because of the way the show is staged, I completely missed). The drag act takes place stage left, and Mark and Judy are sitting stage right. Since your focus is stage left, many on that side of the theater don’t notice her leaving. Mark kisses Jeff, who kisses him back before stopping him. The next scene, in which Judy and Jeff wait in the alley for Idina’s autograph, yet again, shows the awkwardness between them. When things finally erupt, Judy has a terrific speech about how drag can be seen as an affront to women, and Porcel delivers it beautifully. It reminded me of America Ferrara’s speech in the “Barbie” movie. In any other audience, it would have gotten a round of applause, but not in a room filled with gay men. I wanted to applaud but felt intimidated because even though I’ve done drag, I got her point. Hopefully, other men in the audience sat on their hands only because they too felt intimidated. We should have stood and cheered, for she was right. However, Jeff’s response was also correct, drag also celebrates women. That’s the thing, it does both. The show is not without its problems. It’s as if Nogueira didn’t know how to end it. After their blow-up Judy storms out, and you know she and Jeff will no longer be friends, nor will she be seeing Mark. That could have been the last scene. Then Jeff and Mark run into each other at an audition. It turns out Mark has been pursuing Jeff. Jeff has been ignoring him. It looks like they’ll become a couple, but no, in a roller coaster of a scene, they’re planning a future and then break up. That could also have been the last scene, but no. We return to the nightclub where Jeff holds his drag show. He comes out in a robe and a bad Barbra wig, no make-up (why?), and announces a guest star. Surprise, it’s Judy, all sexed up and lip-syncing to Patti Lupone rendition of “Rose’s Turn.” It’s a joke from early in the show, but is so counter to the character that I just sat there thinking, “Why?” It completely contradicts the character’s great monologue and the fact that she is supposed to have a killer singing voice. Except for the last 10 minutes, this is a great show. ISLAND CITY STAGE’S ‘WHICH WAY TO THE STAGE’ FEATURES FLAWLESS PERFORMANCES Sophia Porcel, Clay Cartland and Gaby Tortoledo in the "Drunk Bride to be" scene at the local drag bar in "Which Way to the Stage". Photo via Island City Rick Karlin Stage, Facebook. “WHICH WAY TO THE STAGE” ISLAND CITY STAGE 2304 N DIXIE HWY. 954-928-9800 ISLANDCITYSTAGE.ORG ENTERTAINMENT ONE ON THE AISLE ‘SCHARTT$ CREEK’ NO HONEYMOON IN WILTON MANORS 1140 N. FLAGLER DR., FORT LAUDERDALE 954-678-1496 EMPIRESTAGE.COM “Schartt$ Creek: Honeymoon in Wilton Manors” is written by Jamie Morris, also behind the brilliantly titled “Mommie Queerest,” “The Silence of the Clams,” and “Gilligan’s Fire Island.” It runs 75 minutes without intermission, but it feels like two hours. If only the script was as witty as his titles. But there is barely a laugh in this tedious slog-fest. Supposedly, this play ran for months in Provincetown and was a huge hit. A blurb from Provincetown Magazine on the cover of the playbill boasts, “The laughter begins upon arrival and doesn’t subside the entire show.” I wonder what show they saw because it certainly wasn’t this one. The plot, what there is of it, is thin and mostly serves to allow for the cast to ham up with some impersonations of the characters from the popular television show it parodies. Jonathan Joseph Peters is engaging in his parody of Dan Levy, but it grows tiresome after only a few minutes. Eric Maul in the role of Alexis/Stevie is equally annoying and ineffective in both roles. Jamie Morris has, of course, saved the best role, Moira, for himself, and he does a respectable job with it. The only one who brings his characters to life is local actor Benjamin Shaevitz as Bea, Cecil, and a commercial director, each a distinct character, and the only actor with charisma in the entire show. The production team thought that they could throw in some clips of local Wilton Manors landmarks and that would be enough to transfer the show from its Provincetown setting. However, we don’t refer to the people who live here as “townies,” nor are they likely to be of Portuguese heritage. Just more examples of the laziness of this adaptation. I’ve seen some of Morris’ other shows and this one, well, smells like some sharted! Rick Karlin Jonathan Joseph Peters & Jamie Morris. Photo via Jamie Morris, Facebook. ENTERTAINMENT ONE ON THE AISLE

2.1.2024 • 33 CHO CHOPIN AND RACHMANINOFF FEB 2 – 3 at Adrienne Arsht Center Tickets at arshtcenter.org BF23-AD-Chopin and Rachmaninoff-OUT South Florida-10x5.3.indd 1 10/27/23 11:44 AM KRAVIS CENTER - DREYFOOS HALL FEBRUARY 18 BUY TICKETS NOW!

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