OutSFL Vol. 1, Issue 4

JUNE 22, 2023 VOL. 1 • ISSUE 4 VISIT US ONLINE AT OUTSFL.COM OUTSFL @OUT_SFL @OUTSFL SERVING WILTON MANORS AND OAKLAND PARK BEGINS IN CENTER PAGE 10 WE'RE HERE. WE'RE QUEER. GET USED TO IT

2 • 6.22.2023 Photo Illustration by JR Davis and Julie Palmer. June 22, 2023 • Volume 1 • Issue 4 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 © 2023 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 ENTERTAINMENT EDITOR J.W. Arnold [email protected] FOOD/TRAVEL EDITOR Rick Karlin COMMUNITY EDITOR John Hayden [email protected] PHOTOGRAPHERS J.R. Davis • Carina Mask COLUMNISTS Brian McNaught • Jesse Monteagudo • Sabrina Haake SPECIAL TO OUTSFL Steve Rothaus CORRESPONDENTS John McDonald • Sean Conklin • Deon Jefferson David-Elijah Nahmod • Aurora Dominguez Denise Royal • Mary Rasura • Christian Walden Terri Schlichenmeyer • Gregg Shapiro Kennedy McKinney • Michael Anguille PUBLISHING CONSULTANT Pier Angelo SALES & MARKETING For ad placement, call 954-530-4970 SALES MANAGERS Edwin Neimann [email protected] Silvio Carvana [email protected] Cory Livengood [email protected] DISTRIBUTION SERVICES Richie Wilson & Johnathan Rey NATIONAL ADVERTISING Rivendell Media 212-242-6863 MIAMI MAYOR LAUNCHES UNICORN CAMPAIGN FOR PRESIDENT T he new kid in class wants you to know he’s not as mean as the others. That is essentially Francis Suarez’s message to LGBT voters as the Miami mayor enters a crowded Republican presidential race. In an interview with NBC News, Suarez drew a distinction between his views and that of Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis when it comes to education. “I think we need to make sure that, you know, young adults do get sex education training,” Suarez told correspondent Hallie Jackson in a June 16 interview. Calling the recent expansion of Florida’s notorious “Don’t Say Gay” law, “excessive” Suarez said there is room for debate on how issues of sexuality and gender are addressed in public schools. “We need to make sure that our children can grow up in an environment where they can make good choices, but I don’t think it should be indoctrination. And I think that’s where — where there can be a debate,” Suarez said. Suarez and DeSantis were on the same page when the initial parental rights bill, that banned classroom instruction on gender and sexual orientation in kindergarten through third grade, passed last year. In April, however, the Florida Board of Education, at DeSantis’ request, expanded the law to cover all grades. Meanwhile, Suarez launched his long shot presidential campaign June 15, becoming the third high-profile candidate from Florida — behind DeSantis and ex-President Donald Trump — to seek the Republican nomination. He is the first and only Hispanic candidate in the race. “I’m the biggest threat to the Democratic Party, a Hispanic, conservative, Republican from a big city — the unicorn of all unicorns,” Suarez told Fox News. “It destroys their entire narrative, so they’re threatened, and they’re Miami Mayor Francis Suarez. Photo via Facebook. NEWS HIGHLIGHT coming at me with everything they can. But I don’t apologize for my success.” The 45-year-old attorney and cryptocurrency enthusiast is a two-term Miami mayor, whose father also served as mayor, but was removed from office for election fraud. The younger Suarez is reportedly the subject of an active FBI investigation into allegations he took bribes from a developer to fast-track a Coconut Grove project. When asked about Suarez’s presidential aspirations, Florida Congressman Carlos Gimenez, a former Miami-Dade County mayor, did not pull any punches. “I’ll never support Francis Suarez, I think he’s a complete fraud,” Gimenez told Fox News. No mayor has ever been elected president, leaving MSNBC analyst Tim Miller to wonder just what is the Suarez endgame. “A 2018 Andrew Gillum voter has entered the field,” Miller tweeted. “Party realignment, grifting or both?” Responding to Miller’s question, Eric Jotkoff, a communications strategist for the National Education Association and former Barack Obama adviser, said Suarez has no chance. “Suarez’s campaign is a mix of grift and ego,” Jotkoff tweeted. “But Miami’s Matt Gaetz has no shot in the race because he has more baggage than MIA.” And then there was longtime Trump confidant Roger Stone piling on with this tweet: “Your dad was a nut job and sadly, so are you,” Stone tweeted. “By the way, soliciting bitcoin contributions from foreign nationals is highly illegal.” In the face of such harsh words, Suarez is forging ahead with his campaign, seeking to amass 40,000 individual donations to make it onto the debate stage. He believes he can get there, citing his ability to communicate better than DeSantis. “The governor is not particularly a relationship guy,” Suarez said during an appearance on Fox & Friends, adding DeSantis has lost endorsements from elected leaders in his own state because, “he doesn’t call people and try to build a relationship.” John McDonald CAN’T WAIT FOR PRINT? FOLLOW US ONLINE. OUTSFL.COM outsfl.com/donate SUPPORT OUR JOURNALISM

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6 • 6.22.2023 OUT AND ABOUT NEWS OUT AND ABOUT Wilton Manors Mayor Scott Newton with honoree Craig Stevens News Anchor at WSVN attending History Fort Lauderdale’s Take PRIDE! event at Galleria Fort Lauderdale. Photo by JR Davis Donations to the Norm Kent LGBTQ Newsmaker Fund can be made here: rb.gy/2s1c8. 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

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8 • 6.22.2023 OUR OUT & PROUD LIST REVEALED L ast week Out South Florida released its first ever Out & Proud issue – a list of local LGBTQ individuals. More than 50 people were chosen – some for their activism; some of their leadership; some for their business acumen and others for their involvement in the LGBTQ community. “These folks are making a difference in our community and/or their respective professional fields,” said Publisher Jason Parsley. “They’re having an impact. We’re delighted to share them with all of our readers.” Profiles of the honorees are on stands now in OutSFL’s first high glossy magazine. Each person has a story in the magazine. The many writers who worked to put this together include Denise Royal, Kim Swan, John McDonald, John Hayden, Mary Rasura, Amancio Paradela, Sean Conklin, Deon Jefferson, JW Arnold and Jesse Monteagudo. “This will be an annual list,” Parsley said. “We’re already looking forward to next year, when we chose 50 more out and proud LGBTQ members.” Nominations are already open and will be open through early 2024. See it online at outsfl.com. Staff MEDICARE AND PRIVATE INSURANCE ACCEPTED 1164 E Oakland Park Blvd, Suite 201 Oakland Park, FL 33334 Dr. Macek is double board certifi ed in Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine by the American Board of Anesthesiology. Dr. Macek is fellowship trained in Pain Medicine at the University of Washington Medical Center in Seattle, the birthplace and leading program of modern pain management in the United States. TREATMENT FOR: ▶ BACK PAIN • NECK PAIN ▶ JOINT DISEASE • HIV NEUROPATHY ▶ HEADACHES • SHINGLES ▶ CANCER PAIN PROCEDURES OFFERED: ▶ STEM CELL THERAPY ▶ PLASMA RICH PROTEIN THERAPY ▶ EPIDURAL STEROID INJECTIONS ▶ JOINT INJECTIONS ▶ SPINAL CORD STIMULATION ▶ MIGRAINES ▶ BACK BRACES ▶ RADIO FREQUENCY ABLATION T: 954.866.5555 | F: 954.938.2127 DRTOMMACEK.COM TOM MACEK, MD Board Certifi ed in: ANESTHESIOLOGY, PAIN MANAGEMENT A PEX SPINE & PAIN OVER 20 YEARS EXPERIENCE CHUCK MURABITO P.A. REALTOR® 954-629-5525 [email protected] EQUAL HOUSING OPPORTUNITY REALTOR Donations to the Norm Kent LGBTQ Newsmaker Fund can be made here: rb.gy/2s1c8. INSIDE THE NEWSROOM

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10 • 6.22.2023 LOUD, PROUD, AND DRENCHED STONEWALL PRIDE MARCHES ON W hile political storm clouds gathered around the Stonewall Pride Parade and Street Festival for months, literal storm clouds gathered over Wilton Manors on June 17. Neither were able to stop the party and protest from happening. While some may have stayed away due to uneasy feelings around the political climate, the intermittent-yet-frequent thunderstorms are likely the reason attendance was drastically down from last year. In 2022, people were nine deep or more along the parade route. This year, you could come and go at will and get right up to the barricades lining the route. The parade started about 15-30 minutes late, mostly due to safety concerns related to the weather. Lightning and gusty winds made it unsafe at times. But around 8:30 p.m., about halfway through the parade, the rain finally stopped. Stonewall Pride CEO Jeff Sterling says organizers are very happy with the length of the parade and how it pretty much went on as scheduled. The political issues were front and center all day. A new law defining “adult entertainment” in Florida is very vague, but is being construed by many to ban drag entertainment in public. After much debate and consternation, drag was present. But the role of drag was more protest than entertainment. Many queens stood defiantly on floats to the cheers of onlookers. Many people dressed in drag to show support for the community. “WE WANT TO WISH EVERYONE HAPPY PRIDE, REGARDLESS OF WHO YOU ARE AND WHERE YOU’RE FROM. EVERYONE’S WELCOME AT THE PUB. LET’S ENJOY!” - MIKE CONNELL OWNER OF PUB ON THE DRIVE Photo by JR Davis. However, a check of the seven outdoor stages up and down Wilton Drive found more DJs and fewer queens serving as entertainers. Al Ferguson and FayWhat?! of Happening Out Television and Hotspots Magazine broadcast the parade from the main stage. Afterward, Ferguson told OutSFL that the anger and protest was palpable. “Perhaps the most important story of Stonewall Pride was the underlying anger. While broadcasting on Apple TV from the main stage, I heard hundreds of people shout anger and slurs about [Ron] DeSantis. That was a reflection of deep protest.” It’s assumed that supporters of DeSantis were in the crowd, looking for any “gotcha” moment. It will be days or weeks before we know if any formal complaints are filed in relation to the event. However, Wilton Manors Mayor Scott Newton is very happy with the weekend. “Wilton Manors’ annual Stonewall Pride Parade Festival was a huge success. Despite rainy weather, thousands came out to Wilton Drive to celebrate pride.” INCLUSION IS KEY The attack on the drag and trans communities magnified the need for unity. “It’s more important than ever, given that we’re being attacked left and right,” SunServe CEO Tony Lima said. “We want to show that we’re here and we’re queer and we want to be respected, loved, and uplifted.” That’s on point for their mission, which serves trans, youth, seniors and more. “We wanted to show representation of what our community really looks like. We’re all types of types, all in the name of love.” Mike Connell, owner of Pub On the Drive, echoed those sentiments. “We want to wish everyone happy Pride, regardless of who you are and where you’re from. Everyone’s welcome at The Pub. Let’s enjoy!” The trans community also came together, with Transinclusive Group and Arianna’s Center teaming up for a fabulous float. “The trans community wants to send a message to the whole LGBT community that we can be united,” Arianna Lint, Executive Director of Arianna’s Center, said. “It’s important to show up and be present.” Nic Zantop of Transinclusive Group, said showing up is more important than ever. “Rain or sun, our trans community has always been here and we’re always going to be here. There are a lot of folks in the state of Florida that would like to see us erased. But our existence can’t be erased.” “Our Pride event was especially significant this year and was a unifying moment for our community,” Newton said. GOOD FOR BUSINESS Despite politics and precipitation, the event was a boon for businesses on The Drive. Bars, restaurants, and stores OutSFL talked with are thrilled with the turnout. Eagle Wilton Manors, generally a late-night bar, had a line out the dowor before 6 p.m. Owner Chuck King said he was seeing a lot of new faces. “Tons and tons of new faces. Lots of people we’ve never seen before. It’s clear that a lot of people have traveled to town for this event.” Celebrity Chef Josie Smith Malave owns Bubbles & Pearls. She took a moment between customers and running the Women’s Stage, to marvel at who was in the crowd. She said there were lots of new diners popping in for a little celebration drink and food. Even pups were getting in on the action. Carlos Kiyatake, the manager at Wag Pride, said he too was seeing a wave of new people. “Right now it’s nonstop. We’ve seen fifty new customers signing up for the loyalty program, which is good.” SAFE & SECURE Law enforcement from Wilton Manors and other departments worked the parade. WMPD Chief Gary Blocker said there were no arrests related to the event and no reports of violations of the new anti-drag law. Blocker went on to say the safety plan, months in the making, worked well, from boots on the ground to drones in the air to tech support behind keyboards. Unofficial estimates put attendance at 40,000. Final attendance numbers and revenue totals are expected to be released later. NEWS LOCAL John Hayden

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12 • 6.22.2023 FEATURING ACTIVISTS, BUSINESS LEADERS, ORGANIZERS, AND OTHERS WHO ARE OUT AND PROUD MEMBERS OF OUR LOCAL LGBTQ COMMUNITY Out South Florida published the first issue of its first magazine last week. The 80-page high glossy edition features OutSFL’s Out and Proud – a list of more than 50 movers and shakers in the local LGBTQ community. The issue will be on stands through the summer giving readers plenty of time to pick it up. It’s the perfect coffee table magazine. The cover features Nadege Green, one of the members of the Out & Proud, known locally as a writer, community historian, researcher, and editor. “We couldn’t be more proud of our first issue of the magazine,” said Publisher Jason Parsley. “It’s a beautifully designed masterpiece.” The first edition also includes interviews with Gary Bremen, a local retired park ranger and Amy Ray, a musician. Other features include a travel piece featuring gay ski week in Switzerland; a review of the Acura Integra; and a book review of Me and Mister Preston. The second issue comes out in early Fall and will feature a searson preview of our local arts and entertainment taking place in the Fall. “Out South Florida is committed to covering our local arts community and we’ll do a damn good job,” Parsley said. “Our Fall guide will simply be the most thorough of any local publication.” Staff “OUT SOUTH FLORIDA IS COMMITTED TO COVERING OUR LOCAL ARTS COMMUNITY AND WE’LL DO A DAMN GOOD JOB.” - JASON PARSLEY PUBLISHER ON STANDS NOW! INSIDE THE NEWSROOM SCAN HERE TO VIEW THE ISSUE ONLINE SCAN HERE TO ADVERTISE IN THE NEXT ISSUE

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14 • 6.22.2023 www.vivagenhealth.com [email protected] 954-372-2756 *generic semaglutide Ozempic* (Semaglutide) Medication assisted weight loss! CALL TODAY FOR FREE TELEMEDICINE OR IN PERSON CONSULTATION NO INSURANCE APPROVAL NEEDED CUSTOM PROGRAMS FOR YOUR GOALS OUT NATION By Mary Rasura GOV VETOES BILL RESTRICTING BATHROOM ACCESS FOR TRANS STUDENTS ARIZONA A rizona Gov. Katie Hobbs vetoed a bill on June 8 that sought to create restrictions on public school bathrooms for trans students, according to the Associated Press. The bill would have required Arizona public schools to create other accommodations for students who refused to use a shared restroom or changing area of the sex they were assigned at birth. The bill also refers to sleeping accommodations on overnight school field trips. Republicans pushing the legislation argued that it would protect children. Hobbs has earlier said she would not support legislation that focuses on LGBT youth. Arizona Gov. Katie Hobbs via wikipedia.com. LONGEST RUNNING LGBT RADIO SHOW REACHES 45TH ANNIVERSARY MINNESOTA A ccording to FOX 9, a radio show that uplifts LGBT voices called Fresh Fruit has been on the air for 45 years, making it the longest running LGBT radio show in the country. Every week since 1978 the show has been broadcast from the KFAI studios in Minneapolis. “A young person told me that before they came out – before they had the words to say to their parents and friends – they would listen to Fresh Fruit at night, under the pillow, on their handheld radio so no one would know – and that gave them a safe place to learn and explore,” DJ Rox Anderson said. VETERAN WHO SUBDUED CLUB Q SHOOTER TO LEAD PRIDE PARADE COLORADO A ccording to NBC News, Colorado Springs will see its first Pride parade this year since the mass shooting that took place in November 2022 at Club Q, an LGBT club. Richard Fierro, army veteran and one of two people who disarmed the Club Q shooter, will be leading the Colorado Springs Pikes Peak Pride. “I’m humbled beyond belief to be accepted into the community and asked as a straight dude to grand marshal their parade,” Fierro said. “And to me, that’s a signal of something that we all need to take, take light in.” Fierro’s daughter’s boyfriend was among those who died in the shooting. “Those families are going to be hurting for forever and always changed. And that’s important for us to continue to acknowledge,” Fierro said. Richard Fierro via Atrevida Beer Co. QUEER STORIES ACROSS THE COUNTRY Photo via Fresh Fruit on KFAI - 90.3 FM HD Minneapolis, Facebook.

6.22.2023 • 15 By Kennedy McKinney OUT ABROAD MAN ACCUSED OF ANTI-TRANS HATE BANNED FROM SCHOOL SPORTS CANADA A Canadian man was banned from elementary school sports after he allegedly shouted at a 9-year-old girl and asked if she was transgender. The girl’s mother, Kari Starr, told the Guardian that her daughter was preparing for a shot-put competition when Josef Tesar tried to stop the competition and said Starr’s daughter was either a boy or transgender. The child, who is not transgender, began hysterically crying and was unable to compete in the shot-put final. Tesar denies the allegations that he confronted the 9-year-old. “This is where anti-trans hate will lead us. A 9-year-old was verbally assaulted, humiliated, and left in tears by an adult,” said Jagmeet Singh, the federal New Democratic Party leader. Josef Tesar screenshot via Castanet News. WOMEN TO GET GAY-CONVICTION PARDONS IN ENGLAND UNITED KINGDOM Women who have been convicted of offenses relating to being gay can now have their convictions removed. This comes after the government expanded the 2012 Disregards and Pardons Scheme that, up until this point, only applied to men. Homosexuality was decriminalized in 1967 in the UK but people who were punished for same-sex activity still carried the conviction on their record. According to the BBC, only 208 people have successfully applied for a pardon, meaning their conviction has been deleted from official records, and they are no longer required to disclose them during court proceedings or during job applications. “We firmly believe people should not have to apply to have their record wiped of things that are quite rightly no longer offenses,” said Jo Easton, chief executive of Unlock, a charity for people with criminal records. Sarah Dines, a safeguarding minister, hopes it will help “right the wrongs of the past.” Image by Victoria_Regen via Pixabay. DEPUTY MAYOR PROTESTS OPPOSITION TO DRAG QUEEN STORY TIME IN DRAG SWEDEN S tockholm Deputy Mayor Jan Jönsson, a Liberal party politician, teamed up with a professional drag queen to dress up in high drag in an effort to support drag queen story time. “What I found out was that it really hurts to be a drag queen,” Jönsson told Euronews. According to EuroNews, drag performers have been under fire for hosting reading events at Swedish capital’s public libraries. “We have seen a worsening situation for LGBTQ persons in general, but against [trans] people specifically. And I think the right-wing movement is trying to use these drag queen story hours to get to the entire LGBTQ community,” said Jönsson. Jan Jönsson. Copyright Robin Bäckman. THE RAINBOW REVOLUTION AROUND THE WORLD injectable PrEP! 1 SHOT every 2 MONTHS protects you from HIV. Get your Rx at our in-house pharmacy. Call today to see the experts in HIV care and prevention! Dr. Schumann, MD Dr. Bolivar, MD João Rodrigues, APRN 954.530.8357 2608 NE 16th Ave. | Wilton Manors, FL 33334

16 • 6.22.2023 POVERELLO CONTINUES DELIVERY SERVICE DESPITE FUNDING WOES THE ORGANIZATION COULD BE FORCED TO SCALE-BACK IF THEY LOSE MORE FUNDING T he ordering is simple. He picks whatever he likes from a user-friendly online portal. Burgers, cheese, milk, chicken. The avocados are the Hass variety. The “good kind.” Six days and a host of update notifications and text messages later, there’s a knock at his door. So much food he has to share with a neighbor (also a member of a food bank; he reciprocates when he gets his orders). He has enough, still, for weeks of eating. Which he does, despite his ailments: HIV (he’s been positive since 2006), chronic hypertension. Lymphoma. Such is the good fortune — all things considered — of Rick Jesus, 60, of Dania Beach. And it’s all thanks to Poverello, a non-profit whose mission, per its website, is to feed “individuals living with critical and chronic illnesses, including HIV.” It’s a service they extend to nearly 3,000 people in the tri-county area. But one which could be in jeopardy if funding continues to dwindle for its already cash-strapped food delivery program. PARTNERSHIP IN PERIL Poverello has been delivering to its clients since 2006 thanks to funding secured by the local help and information service 211. “They contracted DoorDash to do all the deliveries,” said Thomas Pietrogallo, managing director of Poverello. “We never had to pay a thing.” The DoorDash program allowed Poverello FEATURE Michael Anguille POVERELLO IS LOCATED AT 2056 N. DIXIE HIGHWAY IN WILTON MANORS. IN ADDITION TO DISTRIBUTING FOOD, THEY HOST EVENTS, PROVIDE AN ARRAY OF MEDICAL AND WELLNESS SERVICES, AND OPERATE A THRIFT STORE. FOR MORE INFORMATION, OR TO DONATE, PLEASE VISIT WWW.POVERELLO.ORG OR CALL (954) 561-3663. the unique opportunity to extend aid to clients who were immobile and/or lived a significant distance from its distribution center in Wilton Manors. But in May of this year the 211 funding ran out. “We found out in a Zoom call,” Pietrogallo said of the depletion of the 211 funds. Poverello was forced to immediately find other means to keep the partnership with DoorDash afloat. They pay $4.95 per delivery and are barely scraping by. “We do get donations,” Pietrogallo said, “but it won’t be enough that we can keep delivering to all of our clients if we lose federal funding.” FEDERAL FUNDS AND THE FIGHT TO FEED While Poverello’s focus is undoubtedly the sick, they “try not to refuse anyone” who needs the help, according to Petrigallo. About a third of their clients are homeless or otherwise disadvantaged (rather than sick). Nevertheless, Poverello still receives federal funding from programs like Ryan White. Per its website, Ryan White allocates $2 billion annually for assisting people with HIV/AIDS throughout the U.S. It’s these very funds, along with internal donations, which have allowed for the continuation of the DoorDash delivery program. But recently, Petrigallo said, Ryan White has pushed back against providing further donations for food-bank services, preferring instead to focus on what it deems “necessities,” like medical care. This despite the existence of what Petrigallo said is a significant, feasible alternative for providing such care: “I’ve tried to impress upon [the decision makers at Ryan White] that helping people sign up for Obamacare would make more sense than giving them money for medical services,” Pietrogallo said with a hint of irony. (The Affordable Care Act, also known as Obamacare, is, after all, a federal program aimed at ensuring the underprivileged receive medical care.) “This way they can continue to provide for other services that are necessities, too. Like food banks.” For the time being, Pietrogallo’s efforts appear to have been successful. At least in so much that Ryan White has not stopped contributing to Poverello’s efforts. Petrigallo adds, however, that should they cut funding in the future, Poverello would have to prioritize which of its clients receive deliveries. “We’d have no choice but to deliver to those with HIV/AIDS first,” Petrigallo said. And that’d mean everyone else – namely the thousand or so homeless or otherwise needy individuals who benefit from Poverello’s deliveries – would likely be left out. LOOKING TO THE FUTURE “Of course we’d love to obtain further donations,” Pietrogallo said when asked of his goals for the future. “It’d help ensure we can continue to serve as diverse a group of clients as possible, and not just focus on those that are sick. We really aim to help everyone that needs it.” For his part, Jesus said, he’d get by without Poverello deliveries — should they ever cease despite his HIV based need — because he’s a survivor. But that doesn’t mean he’d enjoy it. Or that it wouldn’t be difficult. “This helps me in so many ways. Not just that I’m sick and don’t have money,” Jesus said. “I don’t drive. Don’t have a car. And even if I did, I don’t like shopping and being around people like that. This really makes it easy for someone like me to live like a normal person.” Not to mention, he adds, “The vegetables are always fresh.” POVERELLO HAS BEEN DELIVERING TO ITS CLIENTS SINCE 2006 THANKS TO FUNDING SECURED BY THE LOCAL HELP AND INFORMATION SERVICE 211. Photo via Poverello, Facebook.

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6.22.2023 • 21 WHY I DRESSED IN DRAG SERVING WILTON MANORS AND OAKLAND PARK JUNE 22, 2023 VOLUME 1 • ISSUE 1 FACEBOOK.COM/GROUPS/WMGAZETTE WILTON MANORS OPINION Despite the rain this past weekend, our city enjoyed a successful Stonewall Pride Street Festival & Parade. Many thousands of visitors joined our residents in celebrating this critically important marker of LGBTQ civil rights history. Just as the parade was about to begin, rain gave way to beautiful rainbows – a sign from the universe that we must march on despite the anti-LGBTQ legislation we are being subjected to in Florida. I had the distinct honor of riding with Fort Lauderdale Mayor Dean Trantalis (see photo) during the parade, driven by my partner Roger Posey. I dressed in drag – not because I love wearing heels or blonde wigs (I don’t!), but in an effort to test the constitutionality of Gov. Ron DeSantis's misguided Anti-Drag law. The law contains a provision for recalling elected officials, and I viewed potentially being recall from my position as Commissioner as the shortest path to the court system so this law can be tested by an objective judicial process. The inspiration for this act of resistance came from the recent legal victory in Tennessee, where a similar law was struck down by the courts. By challenging Governor DeSantis directly, I aimed to bring attention to the discriminatory nature of this legislation and pave the way for its ultimate downfall. It is notable (and frustrating!) that has not initiated a recall process against me. I firmly believe this is because he is aware of the law's inherent unenforceability and the embarrassment that would follow a defeat in court as he pursues his Presidential aspirations. While his inaction may be seen as a small victory for the LGBTQ community, it is crucial that we continue our fight against this regressive legislation. The very existence of the law, untested yet by the courts, is used as a political weapon to push our community and our culture back into the closet for fear of persecution. The Anti-Drag law not only threatens the vibrant spirit of self-expression that defines our diverse community but also undermines the principles of equality and freedom that our nation stands for. It is incumbent upon us, as elected officials and engaged citizens, to challenge unjust laws and protect the rights of all individuals. The process works: here in Florida, a Federal judge recently blocked Florida’s ban of gender-affirming care. Though Pride is now behind us, much work is clearly still in front of us. There are a number of bills that attack our trans community and youth that we must now amplify our efforts on. Let us join our voices, engage in constructive dialogue, and work towards legal avenues that will definitely strike down all of the recently passed Anti-LGBTQ legislation. Together, we can foster an environment that celebrates diversity, respects individuality, and ensures equal rights for every member of our community. It is through our collective strength and unwavering resolve that we will create a society where justice and inclusivity prevail. If you have thoughts on the recent antiLGBTQ legislation, or ideas on how we can work to combat it, I welcome your emails at [email protected] or texts at (954) 557-2801 . CHRIS CAPUTO WILTON MANORS CITY COMMISSIONER WWW.WMGAZETTE.COM Mayor Dean Trantalis and Chis Caputo at Stonewall Pride 2023.. Photo courtesy of Chris Caputo.

22 • 6.22.2023 There have been lots of starts and stops in the quest to bring new development to Wilton Manors. The highest profile and controversial project remains in “stop” mode. There was essentially one thing on the agenda for the city’s planning and zoning board’s meeting on June 12: discussion of redevelopment of Shoppes of Wilton Manors (aka Alibi Plaza). Shortly before the meeting, developers asked for another delay. Sources at the meeting told OutSFL that developers are still working on parking issues and want to have a workable agreement before they come to the board for variances. The question is: when is that going to happen? The board adjourned without assigning it to a future agenda. Setting it for their regular July meeting is problematic because multiple board members have vacation plans or other conflicts, making it possible a quorum may not be achieved. That issue aside, they want as many members to be present for such an impactful discussion. Kicking it to August felt like too long a delay. They could still add it to the July or August agenda, or call a special meeting. HURRY UP AND WAIT This issue was set to be discussed in April, then in May, then again later in June. The delays, requested by developers, are beginning to frustrate board members. Board member Rudy Molinet expressed frustration, but it was determined nothing can be done to speed up the process. The plan calls for the back building of the plaza, the one with the gym, paint store and more, to be demolished and become a parking lot (size of parking spaces is said to be one of the sticking points). Where the parking lot is now would become a mixed use building with retail on the ground floor, and about 252 apartments above. The building that houses Alibi and Hunters is not part of the plan. 2520 N. Dixie Highway • Wilton Manors, FL 33305 May 18, 2023 • Volume 10 • Issue 10 Publisher/Editor Jason Parsley CEO Justin Wyse 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 Staff Photographers J.R. Davis • Carina Mask Sales & Marketing For ad placement in The Gazette, contact 954-530-4970 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 MORE DELAYS, FRUSTRATION OVER WILTON DRIVE DEVELOPMENT WILTON MANORS The plan calls for the back building of the plaza, the one with the gym, paint store and more, would be demolished and become a parking lot (size of parking spaces is said to be one of the sticking points). 2 • JUNE 22, 2023 • WWW.WMGAZETTE.COM Wilton Drive. Photo by John Hayden. By John Hayden THE NEWSLETTER YOU NEED. outsfl.com/newsletter THE ISLANDER A WILTON MANORS NEWSLETTER

6.22.2023 • 23 Follow Us on Social Media & Stay Connected facebook.com/OutSFL @out_sfl @outsfl Donations to the Norm Kent LGBTQ Newsmaker Fund can be made here: rb.gy/2s1c8. NEW FACES ON WILTON MANORS BOARDS COMMUNITY RALLIES AROUND VANDALIZED ART WILTON MANORS WILTON MANORS WWW.WMGAZETTE.COM • JUNE 22, 2023 • 3 Wilton Manors’ Planning and Zoning Board (P&Z) will be making big decisions soon regarding the city’s future. After making several new appointments in April, two more were made during the city commission meeting on June 13. Technically, there was only one vacancy, which was created by Jude Bellinger. He resigned due to a possible conflict of interest, stemming from his involvement with a community group representing businesses on Wilton Drive. As the board’s alternate, Scott McCoy has been participating until the commission could appoint a new full member. During the meeting, the commission voted to have him finish Bellanger’s term, creating a new vacancy for the alternate position. Remaining candidates, who had applied for the original job, were considered for the alternate. Louis Izquierdo was chosen over William Hayden and Mike Sansevero. The quirky-yet-mouthwatering Ice Pops sculpture at Rachel Richardson park will not be melting away, thanks to the work of the local community. The art installation at NE 21st Ct. and Andrews Ave. was vandalized in late May. Mike Sansevero started a Facebook page to collect donations. “Art expresses the heart and soul of a community,” he told OutSFL. “As the vandalism of the Ice Pops sculpture goes to show, it can bring a community together to defeat negative influences and support the positive aspects of their environment.” The sculpture is part of Sculpture Walk Wilton Manors and is operated by Wilton Manors Entertainment Group (WMEG). According to the fundraising page, it will cost about $1,000 to repair Ice Pops. At the time of this writing, it was close to reaching its goal of $1,500. “I am very heartened by the outpouring of support for the restoration of Ice Pops,” Sansevero said on Facebook. Derek Modrok is charged with the crime. Wilton Manors Police Department (WMPD) says he confessed a few days later, when being interrogated about damage to the new Thunderbunny sculpture in Flippen Park. Modrok is charged in both cases, and is out on bond. By John Hayden By John Hayden PARKS AND RECREATION The commission also filled four scheduled vacancies on the Parks and Recreation board. Because only four candidates applied, all four were chosen to fill the positions. The new members are Roger Cruttenden, George DeFrance, Charles Higgins, and Dylan Salem. None of the members on expiring terms reapplied. Wilton Manors City Hall. Photo by Carina Mask. Photos via Facebook.

244 • • JUNE 22, 2023 6.22.2023 • WWW.WMGAZETTE.COM WILTON MANORS RECOGNIZES PRIDE WILTON MANORS Recognizing struggles and celebrating success. Wilton Manors has officially recognized Pride Month. During the city commission meeting, Mayor Scott Newton read a proclamation recognizing the struggles of the LGBT+ community, which reads, “...unfortunately, many places around the globe are not as open-hearted, as LGBTQ+ people face ridicule, persecution, arrest, and punishment as extreme as death.” It also lauds Wilton Manors’ progressive history, which includes action to prevent bullying, being the first city to permanently display the Pride flag, electing the first allLGBTQ city commission, and recognizing Harvey Milk Day each May. As CEO of the Pride Center, Robert Boo accepted the proclamation saying, “This year, it seems really different. Our community is under attack by our own elected officials.” Boo continued, “I applaud, commend, and By John Hayden am grateful that this government is standing up for the LGBTQ+ community.” Also recognized is a poster designed for this year’s Pride and Stonewall celebrations. Wilton Art and Equality Florida commissioned artist Enrique Cirino to create the artwork for this year’s Pride. “When they first called me to do this poster, the first thing I wanted was to tell a story that is a celebration,” he told the assembly. The art is a colorful expression of Pride, struggles, and passions. The original is on display at Pride Corner Gallery. You can purchase one there for $20.. Photo by Sophie Emeny, via Unsplash. REP GIVES UPDATE ON TALLAHASSEE WILTON MANORS After two brutal legislative sessions in Tallahassee, South Florida’s LGBT community is still trying to understand what happened and figure out what’s next. State Rep. Daryl Campbell serves District 99, covering Wilton Manors and surrounding areas. He came to Hagen Park to give constituents a post-session briefing. “I want to update the people on what we’ve been doing in Tallahassee and what we can do going forward with the new legislation,” he said. This year saw an expansion of “Don’t Say Gay,” medical care for all LGBT, as well as attacks on drag entertainment plus trans youth and adults. Campbell was frank in his assessment. “We have all these social bills that are limiting people’s rights and we want to make sure people have the information and the knowledge they need to combat that.” He also promoted services, such as 211, that are available but underutilized. He also pointed out that Medicaid rolls are being systematically purged. “We’re here to talk about some of the tough issues, the good and the bad. We’re also promoting the resources out here to let people know they are here to help folks in this new state of Florida that we’re coming into.” “We have the immigration bill. We have countless LGBTQ bans. We have the medical conscience bill. There are other bills that don’t favor the community, and we want to make sure that people are aware of what’s in the law and what they can do to combat.” LOOKING AHEAD Next year’s elections will be tough in Florida. After getting trounced at every level, Democrats are going through a painful rebuilding process. One of the key goals is ending Republican-fascist super majorities in Tallahassee. “Absolutely, I think it’s doable.” Campbell says he and party leaders are busy recruiting candidates that can win in their districts. He also believes there are independents and others that can be reasonable and reclaim a center that’s been commandeered by the far right. “We have a lot of work to do. We’re on the ground recruiting folks to come aboard and pay attention to what’s really going on in Tallahassee.” Photo via Representative Daryl Campbell, Facebook. OUT THERE. CALL US AT 954.514.7095 YOUR AD COULD BE HERE. DON’T WAIT, GET YOUR BUSINESS By John Hayden

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26 • 6.22.2023 TRUMP ATTACKS THE RULE OF LAW RATHER THAN BEND TO IT F or the first time in U.S. history, a former commander-in-chief has been charged under the Espionage Act with jeopardizing national security. Equally dangerous, he is working to erode the rule of law rather than bend to it. Before the contents of the indictment were known or unsealed, Trump supporters raced to discredit it. Attacking the FBI and the DOJ for pursuing a “witch hunt,” they disregarded the government’s year and a half long struggle to reclaim boxes with material containing highly sensitive military defense secrets, including defense and weapons capabilities, nuclear capacities, war schematics, plans for military responses in the event of attack, maps, and U.S. allied defense vulnerabilities. Trump’s defenders ignore the exhaustive shell game he employed to conceal the subpoenaed documents, which included directing his employees to move and scatter boxes to various rooms at Mar-a-Lago, hiding many boxes from his own attorneys, and suggesting Evan Corcoran simply lie about or destroy damning documents rather than turn them over to the FBI, saying, “I don’t want you looking through my boxes … Wouldn’t it be better if we just told them we don’t have anything here?” DEFENDING THE INDEFENSIBLE Trump orchestrated the political response weeks before the indictment was issued, much the way he claimed the 2020 election was rigged before the votes were in. Trump used the indictment to supercharge his fundraising, referring to his re-election apocalyptically as an imperative “final battle,” and vowing to devote his second term to retribution. Untroubled by the risks posed to national security, House Republicans competed in their zeal to defend Trump. Jim Jordan of Ohio says Trump had the “right” to keep nuclear weapons secrets in a high traffic area, while Marjorie Taylor Greene of Georgia called the indictment a “stain on our nation” from a “corrupt” FBI and DOJ. Kevin McCarthy, indulging extremists who threaten his speakership, tweeted, “It is unconscionable for [Biden] to indict the leading candidate opposing him.” Never mind that a grand jury composed of 23 Florida residents chosen at random - not Biden - voted to indict. Andy Biggs of Arizona now calls for dismantling the FBI, and an “eye for an eye” in a “war phase.” Meanwhile Matt Gaetz of Florida predicted that Biden would be imprisoned, Kari Lake reminded the country that Trump supporters were heavily armed, and Ron DeSantis, expert in political weaponization, tweeted without irony that the “DeSantis administration will … excise political bias and end weaponizations once and for all.” WE HAVE NOT BEEN HERE BEFORE Trump’s acolytes trek in false equivalencies, but each act of indicted conduct occurred after the subpoena was issued. It wasn’t about Trump having the documents, but refusing to return them. Although both Biden and Pence discovered documents in their possession, they immediately notified the federal government, turned over the documents, and cooperated with thorough FBI searches of their homes and offices. They did not orchestrate an 18-month cat and mouse game to evade the law. When presidents Clinton and Nixon faced legal jeopardy, they respected the process. They did not attack the entire legal system to defend themselves; they did not call the FBI “thugs.” BILL BARR, TY COBB COULD PULL THE GOP BACK FROM THE BRINK Trump has once again brought America to a perilous and unprecedented crossroad; the wrong turn is a path of existential threat. His unrelenting and searing contempt for the rule of law, echoed by extremist members of Congress, incites anarchy. Photo by Gage Skidmore, via Wikimedia Commons. Either the GOP’s better angels will pivot back to the rule of law - and soon - or a major cohort of Americans will renounce the legal system altogether, convinced by Trump that it is partisan and rigged. Bill Barr, Trump’s attorney general, sees the gravity of a moment he helped create. Discussing Trump’s latest indictment on Fox News, Barr said he was shocked by both the degree of sensitivity of the national security documents and the number of them, calling the Espionage Act evidence “very, very damning.” Scolding House Republicans for their blind defense, Barr said, “This idea of presenting Trump as a victim here, a victim of a witch hunt, is ridiculous. He’s not a victim … Those documents are among the most sensitive secrets the country has … There is no excuse for what he did here.” Ty Cobb, Trump’s former lawyer, echoes the sentiment. Cobb previously said he believed Trump faced prison time under the Espionage Act. He reiterated his prediction after the recording surfaced of Trump discussing military material with witnesses and a reporter who had no security clearance, while acknowledging that the document remained classified. Cobb told CNN, “I think Trump is in an enormous amount of trouble. This indictment is about as carefully structured and evidentially supported as any indictment in history.” Perhaps it was inevitable that Trump would scorn the rule of law, since the most damning evidence and arguments against him come from his own hired guns - Michael Cohen, Bill Barr, and Ty Cobb. They’ve seen Trump attack institutions of government, recklessly inviting his rage-pumped base, again, to attempt to overthrow it. To their great and enduring credit, these fallible men have recoiled from the monster they helped create, assenting to his restraint rather than let him destroy our republic. VIEWPOINT OPINION OPINION Sabrina Haake THE HAAKE TAKE Sabrina Haake is a 25-year litigator specializing in 1st and 14th Amendment defense. Her columns appear in Out South Florida, Chicago Tribune, State Affairs, and Howey Politics. She and her wife split their time between South Florida and Chicago.

28 • 6.22.2023 STEPHANIE BEATRIZ OPENS UP ABOUT HER SEXUAL IDENTITY S tephanie Beatriz attended Tribeca’s Film Festival and admitted she chose to keep her bisexuality “hidden for a really long time” due to fear of backlash in her career. “I thought, ‘Oh it may affect my career, it might have an effect on some of my relationships.’ And it did, and probably does,” Beatriz told Page Six. Beatriz has talked about how marrying a man doesn’t limit or change her sexuality. “I’m choosing to get married because this particular person brings out the best in me … I’m still bi,” said Beatriz in an essay for GQ. Today, Beatriz is focused on being proud of her identity and sharing the struggles the bisexual community face, especially during Pride. Stephanie Beatriz via Instagram. OUT AND LOUD CULTURE OUT AND LOUD BISEXUAL By Christian “CJ” Walden LGBT CELEBRITY WATCH MIRIAM MARGOLYES MAKES DEBUT VOGUE COVER B ritish Actress and “Harry Potter” star Miriam Margolyes opened up to Vogue about her lesbian identity at the age of 82. Margolyes made shocking revelations in her Vogue interview. From being out when homosexuality was illegal in the U.K. in 1966 to losing 34 friends during the AIDS epidemic, she has stressed that she had no desire to be straight. “I knew it [being gay] wasn’t criminal because it was me. I couldn’t be criminal,” said Margolyes. Margolyes expressed great worry over current U.K. politics, which are increasingly becoming anti-LGBT similar to Florida and Texas state policies. “I just think England has become a s**t-hole…,” said Margolyes. LESBIAN Miriam Margolyes via Twitter.

6.22.2023 • 29 STARS RECEIVE TONY AWARDS T he Broadway community seized the night when Alex Newell and J. Harrison Ghee became the first non-binary people to win Tony Awards for acting amid a strike that left the ceremony without a script. “Thank you for the humanity. Thank you for my incredible company who raised me up every single day,” said Ghee. Every winner’s speech was done without a teleprompter. “Thank you for seeing me, Broadway. I should not be up here as a queer, non-binary, fat, Black little baby from Massachusetts. And to anyone that thinks that they can’t do it, I’m going to look you dead in your face that you can do anything you put your mind to,” said Newell. Alex Newell and J. Harrison Ghee at the Tony Awards. Photos via Twitter. CULTURE OUT AND LOUD NON-BINARY and and and

30 • 6.22.2023 OUR PAGES YOUR VOICE Send us your letters [email protected] CAN’T WAIT FOR PRINT? FOLLOW US ONLINE. OUTSFL.COM SCI-FI BECOMING REALITY In 1978, as a sophomore in college, I was assigned to read Fahrenheit 451 by Ray Bradbury and then write an essay for the English class. Fahrenheit 451 was written in 1953; it presents an American society where books have been personified and outlawed and “firemen” burn any that are found. The novel follows Guy Montag, a fireman who becomes disillusioned with his role of censoring literature and destroying knowledge, eventually quitting his job and committing himself to the preservation of literary and cultural writings. I remember that I closed my essay by saying, “It is a great, scary, science fiction book, but luckily it will never happen here.” How wrong I was. Recently passed state and local legislation is dictating what schools may or may not teach and what students may or may not read. Over 3,000 different titles were banned or censored by school districts so far. Nearly 60% of those bans were aimed at classrooms and school libraries, and most of the targeted books were by or about racial minorities or LGBTQ people. Broad, vaguely defined prohibitions on teaching “critical race theory” and other allegedly divisive topics in classrooms have compelled many teachers to alter their curricula or quit. In Florida, a textbook publisher even Book cover images via Amazon. had to completely remove a purely factual passage on George Floyd’s murder and the subsequent Black Lives Matter protests. In a dozen states, teachers and school librarians now face potential prison time for violating the bans. It isn’t just individual books being “removed, restricted, suppressed in public schools” anymore, said Kasey Meehan of the PEN America foundation. “It’s a set of ideas, it’s themes, it’s identities, it’s knowledge on the history of our country.” Even poems are getting banned. Florida did away with “The Hill We Climb” written by Amanda Gorman for the 2021 Presidential Inauguration. The poem contains one of the most moving lines ever written about our country following the Jan. 6 attack on the Capitol: “Somehow we weathered and witnessed a nation that isn’t broken, but simply unfinished.” Apparently our state’s politicians think that printed words are more dangerous than bullets. But people are fighting back. The irony? A Utah school district has banned the Bible for elementary and middle school students after it was determined to be “too vulgar” and “too violent” for younger readers. The move came after a parent in the district grew frustrated by other efforts to ban books in schools. We are heading toward a “1984” Orwellian reality. The book, written in 1949, is a cautionary tale that centers on the consequences of totalitarianism, mass surveillance and repressive regimentation of people and behaviors within society. The novel examines the role of truth and facts within societies and the ways in which they can be manipulated. Through the Ministry of Truth, the Party engages in omnipresent government surveillance, historical negationism, and constant propaganda to persecute individuality and independent thinking. Sounds familiar? In 1999 The Advocate listed the 100 Best Lesbian and Gay novels selected by the Publishing Triangle. For now I will only list the 5 books that had a great impact on my life: 1) Giovanni’s Room by James Baldwin 2) Dancer from the Dance by Andrew Holleran 3) The Front Runner by Patricia Nell Warren 4) A Single Man by Christopher Isherwood 5) The Boys of Boise by John Gerassi You can probably find them all at the Stonewall Library in Fort Lauderdale. These books must be preserved and treasured to make sure the LGBTQ community is not erased from society. CULTURE HISTORY Pier Angelo HOMO HISTORY Pier Angelo was born in Italy, moved to England at the age of 17 and learned English at the Nelson School of English. He attended college and graduate school in Manhattan. In 2009 he co-founded SFGN with Norm Kent. Now he’s retired with his husband Tom and his Affenpinscher Cabbage. WE ARE HEADING TOWARD A “1984” ORWELLIAN REALITY.

6.22.2023 • 31 CHORUS CELEBRATES DISNEY THIS WEEKEND F lip through the channels or scroll down your social media feeds and it’s hard to miss the latest headlines about Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis’ longtime feud with Disney. In the 15 months since the entertainment giant – and Florida’s largest private employer – spoke out against the anti-LGBT “Don’t Say Gay” bill, DeSantis has threatened and targeted Disney. On June 24 and 25, the Gay Men’s Chorus of South Florida (GMCSF) will celebrate the timeless music from Disney films at the Parker Playhouse with the regional premiere of “Disney PRIDE in Concert” – and they’re not going to let politics get in the way. “When I chose to do this program, it was more than a year and a half ago, before all the legislation happened,” explained Gabe Salazar, GMCSF artistic director. “Florida is the home of Disney and we’re standing our ground. There’s never been a thought to change [the concert]. We’ve only received positive press.” GMCSF is the first organization in the region to perform the program, which was created by arranger Chad Weirick and writers Bill Casey and Tom Choinski, in close collaboration with Disney. Weirick is the accompanist and arranger for the Boston Gay Men’s Chorus, who gave the premiere in June 2022 at Boston Symphony Hall. The music includes selections from the animated films “Mary Poppins,” “The Little Mermaid,” “The Lion King,” “Coco,” “Zootopia,” “Wreck-It Ralph,” and the musical “soundtracks” from Disney Parks. The songs are arranged around themes including “It Gets Better,” Black Lives Matter, life, love and coming out as members and allies of the LGBT community. Members of the chorus will share personal stories and reflections throughout, and clips from the Disney films will accompany the music. In the program notes, GMCSF founding member Jim Lopresti explained the lasting impact of Walt Disney’s work: “Yes, Disney’s is a world of fantastic stories filled with heroes, magic, and heartwarming romance meant to bring delight to children. And all that will be visible on stage when the curtain opens on GMCSF’s Disney Pride. Yet, Walt Disney once said, ‘I do not make films Members of the Gay Men’s Chorus of South Florida rehearsing. Photo Courtesy of Gay Men’s Chorus of South Florida. ENTERTAINMENT MUSIC J.W. Arnold THE GAY MEN’S CHORUS OF SOUTH FLORIDA PRESENTS “DISNEY PRIDE IN CONCERT,” JUNE 24 AT 8 P.M. AND JUNE 25 AT 3 P.M. AT THE PARKER, 707 N.E. 8TH ST. IN FORT LAUDERDALE. TICKETS START AT $31.50 AT PARKERPLAYHOUSE.COM. primarily for children. I make them for the child in all of us, whether we be 6 or 60.’ “Hearing Disney stories and songs from films like ‘Peter Pan’ (‘You Can Fly’) or ‘The Princess and the Frog’ (‘Dig a Little Deeper’) and classics from Disney World (‘It’s a Small World’) has the power to awaken soulcleansing imagination. That is if we heed Walt Disney’s advice: ‘Never stop dreaming; never stop wishing.’ “It is time again to recall what it is like to ‘wish upon a star… and do as dreamers do.’ To dig deep and believe it ‘makes no difference who you are’ … And take to heart the timeless message that ‘there’s so much that we share, that it’s time we’re aware it’s a small world after all.” In keeping with the appeal of Disney’s music to audiences of all ages, the Sunday afternoon performance will include special pre-concert entertainment for younger audience members who may be attending their first GMCSF concert. GMCSF marketing director Edward Otto Zielke expects still many adults to take advantage of the face painting, glitter tattoos and photo booths, too. “It’s going to be a lot of fun for everyone,” he promised. “It’s all about celebrating Disney and families – no matter what your families look like.” Salazar echoed Zielke, saying, “This is a show for everyone. Our shows have always been for everyone – gay, straight, bi, anywhere on the spectrum. The show demonstrates we are all the same and we celebrate together.” 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. CONGREGATION ETZ CHAIM 2038 N. Dixie Hwy (Pride Center Building B), Wilton Manors 954-564-9232 - etzchaimflorida.org [email protected] Friday Night Shabbat Service 8p.m. CHURCH OF OUR SAVIOR, MCC Church of Our Savior, MCC 2011 S. Federal Hwy. Boynton Beach. churchofoursaviormcc.org | 561-733-4000 Sunday Service 10AM HOLY ANGELS CATHOLIC COMMUNITY 1436 NE 26th St Wilton Manors, FL 33305 954-633-2987 - HolyAngelsFL.net Sunday Mass at 11AM ST. NICHOLAS EPISCOPAL CHURCH 1111 E. Sample Road Pompano Beach, FL 33064 954-942-5887 | StNicholasFL.org Sunday Service 9:30AM SAINT MARK'S EPISCOPAL CHURCH AND SCHOOL 1750 East Oakland Park Blvd Fort Lauderdale, FL 33334 954-563-5155 | www.saintmarksftl.com Worship Sundays @ 8am and 10:30am SPIRITUALITY LISTINGS “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. Join us for in-person worship at 10 AM Sunday, or live streamed on Facebook www.facebook.com/ChruchofOurSaviorMCC 2011 South Federal Hwy. Boynton Beach, FL 561-733-4000 www.churchofoursaviormcc.org Church of Our Savior MCC

32 • 6.22.2023 OUT THOU ARTS Slow Burn Theatre Co.’s production of “Disney’s Newsies” at the Broward Center features a young cast of high energy performers, dancers and acrobats. Photo by Larry Marano. ENTERTAINMENT THEATER J.W. Arnold LAST CHANCE FOR THESE HOT TICKETS CLOSING JUNE 25 ‘DISNEY’S NEWSIES,’ SLOW BURN THEATRE CO. “Disney’s Newsies,” a 1999 live action film documenting the Newsboy Strike of 1899, got the Broadway treatment just over a decade ago, with a book by Harvey Fierstein, score by Alan Menken and lyrics by Jack Feldman. Slow Burn Theatre Co. at the Broward Center, the regional company to earn the trust of Disney for regional premieres, presents a high-flying, high energy production with stunning choreography by Artistic Director Patrick Fitzwater. The young men in the cast (there’s really only one female role) quickly captivate the audience, playing American ragamuffins who scrape together a living selling competing newspapers on the streets of New York. Don’t miss this show! Tickets start at $49 at BrowardCenter.org. ‘SUMMER SHORTS,’ CITY THEATRE City Theatre’s “Summer Shorts” festival, an always entertaining collection of short 10-minute plays that usually attracts new works from across the country gets a distinctively Miami voice in 2023. Titled “Homegrown Edition,” the company stages shorts written and performed by BIPOC and Latinx artists, reflecting the city’s diverse and multicultural community. Many of the eight plays are comedies and several explore LGBT themes or characters. True to previous years, the cast is versatile and the format exudes an improv vibe. If sitting through a two-act, two hour-long play can be a challenge, “Summer Shorts” might offer an engaging alternative for the attention span-challenged. Tickets start at $50 at ArshtCenter.org. ‘BEETLEJUICE,’ BROADWAY IN FORT LAUDERDALE If you loved the 1988 Tim Burton film, you might be wondering how could they turn it into a Broadway musical: you either stick closely to the original or you make big changes. The team behind this recent Broadway hit chose the latter. Boy, did they choose the latter! Beetlejuice is still crazy and creepy – and a little gay – and Lydia is a brooding teenage mess. Justin Collette is definitely up to the challenge as his Beetlejuice is now the narrator and the jokes frequently change to address the political issues of the day. And Isabella Esler’s Lydia may dress in black, but she shines with a soaring voice. Tickets start at $35.75 at BrowardCenter. org. CLOSING JULY 2 ‘SIX DANCE LESSONS IN SIX WEEKS,’ EMPIRE STAGE You have an extra weekend to catch the Artbuzz Theatrics production of “Six Dance Lessons in Six Weeks” at the intimate Empire Stage in Fort Lauderdale. In Richard Alfieri’s comedy/drama: Lily (Lory Reyes), an aging but formidable retiree, hires Michael (Larry Buzzeo), an acerbic dance instructor, to give her dance lessons in her condo in St. Petersburg Beach. Antagonism between a gay man and the wife of a Southern Baptist minister gives way to profound compatibility as they swing dance, tango, foxtrot and cha-cha while sharing barbs and intimacies along with the dance steps. During the sixth lesson, Lily reveals a closely guarded secret and Michael shares his greatest gifts. Tickets start at $30 at EmpireStage.com. ON STANDS NOW!!! Pick Up Your Copy Throughout South Florida Today! VISIT US ONLINE: OUTSFL.COM

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6.22.2023 • 35 Welcome Aboard! Your beautiful vintage Captain Bruce Magnolia Grace Adventures trawler awaits. (352) 220-1016 / MagnoliaGraceAdventures.com • Intracoastal Day Trips • Pampering Weekends • Hourly Rentals • Fireworks EXPERIENCES: • 2-3 day Miami Skyline • Special Occasions • Airshow Viewing • Boat Parade