OutSFL Vol. 2, Issue 20

OUR PAGES YOUR VOICE MAY 16, 2024 VOL. 2 • ISSUE 20 VISIT US ONLINE AT OUTSFL.COM OUTSFL @OUTSFL GET TICKETS! OUR QUEEN OF QUEENS STORIES BY JOHN HAYDEN | PAGES 2 & 20 STORY BY ROBERT COLE & ELLEN DOOLEY | PAGE 18 MELISSA ST. JOHN AT MZ OUTSFL PAGEANT RAISES SCHOLARSHIP FUNDS

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4 • 5.16.2024 COVER: Melissa St. John. Photo by Michael Murphy. May 16, 2024 • Volume 2 • Issue 20 2520 N. Dixie Highway • Wilton Manors, FL 33305 OutSFL newspaper is published on a weekly schedule. You should not presume the sexual orientation or gender identity of any featured individuals solely based on their names, appearance, or inclusion within this publication. Any opinions shared within stories, columns, graphics, or letters to the editor should not be assumed to represent the opinions of OutSFL, its Publisher, or its co-founder. Any stories or content, either in print or online, and also including any articles that are featured in conjunction with any media partners, are protected under federal copyright and intellectual property laws, and this ownership is carefully and jealously guarded by this media group. Nothing that is published may be reprinted, either in whole or in part, without first receiving written consent from the Publisher, Jason Parsley. OutSFL is owned by Jason Parsley and Justin Wyse, and is represented legally by Russell Cormican. As a private corporation, OutSFL reserves the right to enforce its own standards regarding the suitability of advertising copy, illustrations, and photographs. Copyright © 2024 J&J Media Group. PUBLISHER Jason Parsley [email protected] CEO Justin Wyse [email protected] EDITORIAL ASSISTANT TO THE EDITOR Kimberly Swan ART DIRECTOR Julie Palmer GRAPHIC DESIGNERS Kyle Willis • Craig Tuggle GRAPHIC DESIGN CONSULTANT Brendon Lies ARTS & CULTURE EDITOR Rick Karlin [email protected] COMMUNITY EDITOR John Hayden [email protected] PHOTOGRAPHERS J.R. Davis • Carina Mask COLUMNISTS Brian McNaught • Jesse Monteagudo Sabrina Haake • Fred Fejes John Porter • Kelly Ghweinem SPECIAL TO OUTSFL Steve Rothaus • J.W. Arnold CORRESPONDENTS John McDonald • Sean Conklin Deon Jefferson • Aurora Dominguez Denise Brown • Mary Rasura Terri Schlichenmeyer • Gregg Shapiro Kennedy McKinney • Michael Anguille Robert DeDominic • Aaron Kinchen Tessa Becker • Christopher Flores PUBLISHING CONSULTANT Pier Angelo SALES & MARKETING For ad placement, call 954-514-7095 SALES MANAGERS Edwin Neimann [email protected] Silvio Carvana [email protected] Andrew LaRochelle [email protected] DISTRIBUTION SERVICES Richie Wilson • Johnathan Rey • Tyler Brayton NATIONAL ADVERTISING Rivendell Media 212-242-6863 Spot an error? Let us know at [email protected] CAN’T WAIT FOR PRINT? FOLLOW US ONLINE. OUTSFL.COM PLANE JANE IS CLEARED FOR LANDING & READY TO TAKE THE WORLD BY STORM more than $2 million for various causes, and OutSFL’s pageant will raise money for scholarships. Wyse says honoring and contributing to her work is an easy decision. “Choosing a Queen of Queens, which is our tribute and honor of the scholarship fund in their name, is a very difficult task as there are many legends throughout South Florida.” She will be feted by some of her most high profile peers, including Tiffany Fantasia, Athena Dion, Darcel Stevens, and Serena ChaCha. Co-hosting the night will be Eagle Wilton Manors proprietor, Chuck King. “I feel it’s important to show I support the art of drag, as well as Eagle Wilton Manors. I’m proud to represent, and close the gap for the entire LGBTQ community.” In all, at least $20,000 will be given out in cash and prizes. The night begins at 5:30 with a VIP reception. Doors are at 6:15 with the pageant OUTSFL PRESENTS PAGEANT CELEBRATES LOCAL DRAG COMMUNITY MAY 18 Drag entertainment and a free press are both under attack in Florida. One year ago, OutSFL was a fledgling operation and queens were being hidden behind covered fences and blacked out windows. Now the corner has been turned, and the two powerful entities are joining forces to create a fabulous night and impact lives. The Inaugural Mz OutSFL Pageant is Saturday, May 18, at Sunshine Cathedral, and will be more than a night of top entertainers, it will make a difference in the lives of the next generation of LGBTQ youth. “The main purpose of the event is to raise scholarship funds for LGBTQ students in South Florida,” OutSFL CEO Justin Wyse said. “The main goal of focusing the fundraising around a pageant is to highlight the drag artist community.” Queen of Queens Melissa St. John is hosting the night, and the event will benefit the fund. Over the course of her fabulous 40 plus year career, she has raised NEWS • HIGHLIGHT John Hayden Hosts, Melissa St. John (left), courtesy photo, and Chuck King, courtesy photo. starting off at 7:00. Tickets start at $20 for general admission. Premium seating is $50, VIP seats are $90, and Champagne Tables are $500 for four, or $125 per person. “We hope to raise money to provide three scholarships annually. Our goals are to help bring future leaders to our community through education while creating strong philanthropic values at a young age,” Wyse said. As co-host, King says he will have the best seat in the house. “I’m most looking forward to seeing the queens’ performances to compete for the title, as well as entertain the audience between contestants. It will be an incredibly fun evening!” “WE HOPE TO RAISE MONEY TO PROVIDE THREE SCHOLARSHIPS ANNUALLY. OUR GOALS ARE TO HELP BRING FUTURE LEADERS TO OUR COMMUNITY THROUGH EDUCATION WHILE CREATING STRONG PHILANTHROPIC VALUES AT A YOUNG AGE.” - JUSTIN WYSE OUTSFL CEO TICKETS ARE AVAILABLE HERE

5.16.2024 • 5 In Greater Fort Lauderdale, we’re excited about welcoming everyone under the sun and providing access for all, from beach wheelchairs and accessible pathways to the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Program at FLL airport. Learn more about local resources and plan your trip at VisitLauderdale.com/Accessibility. Welcome to accessibility for everyone

6 • 5.16.2024 LAST WEEK'S COVER FROM THE NEWSROOM - TAYLOR SWIFT DURING HER RECENT CONCERT IN CHICAGO SCAN HERE TO VIEW THE ISSUE ONLINE CARTOON OF THE WEEK Larry Printz EDITORIAL CARTOON

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8 • 5.16.2024 OUT AND ABOUT PHOTO OF THE WEEK Husbands Ira Baer, CFO at Baer’s Furniture who supports Our Fund, SAVE, Equality Florida, and A Wider Bridge, and Drew Tabatchnick, vice chair of the Jewish Federation, attending the SAVE Gala. Photo by JR Davis OUTFAU'S COVER FROM THE NEWSROOM - TAYLOR SWIFT DURING HER RECENT CONCERT IN CHICAGO SCAN HERE TO VIEW THE ISSUE ONLINE

10 • 5.16.2024 KENT’S QUIPS FROM THE NEWSROOM TO MAKE A DONATION TO THE NORM KENT LGBTQ NEWSMAKER FUND GO TO OUR-FUND.ORG/NORMKENTFUND “If you cry about losing the sun, your tears will prevent you from seeing the stars. Look beyond the rainbow.” Courtesy photo. - NORM KENT Waterfront Landing • 109 S Flager Dr. West Palm Beach Jan 1 - Mar 1 $40 | Mar 2 - May 1 $45 | May 2 - Jun 8 $50 JUNE 8 6:30p Pride 5K www.NightRunnersWPB.com $40 $45 $50 R u n / W alk 2 0 2 4 Charity Partner: 4th Annual Limited Edition Shirt | Finisher Medal | Awards (Male, Female, & Non-Binary)

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12 • 5.16.2024 By Kennedy McKinney OUT ABROAD UGANDAN ACTIVIST ASKS FOR ASYLUM IN CANADA AFRICA S teven Kabuye, a prominent Ugandan activist, sought asylum in Canada after he was stabbed earlier this year in Uganda. Rainbow Railroad, a group that works with LGBTQ and intersex refugees, got Kabuye “away from the dangers” in Kenya and Uganda. “The Ugandan government fails to get the culprits who wanted to end my life,” said Kabuye in an interview with the Blade. “Every time I come up and demand for the police to act out, they end up calling the colleagues of mine that remain in Uganda and intimidate them so they can scare me off.” For now, Kabuye continues his advocacy for LGBTQ Ugandans from Canada. “They’ve [Rainbow Railroad] still given me a chance to continue my advocacy. Steven Kabuye. Photo via X (formerly Twitter). COUNCIL BANS SAME-SEX PARENTING BOOKS AUSTRALIA A city council near Sydney voted to ban same-sex parenting books from local libraries. According to The Guardian, the amendment was put forward by Steve Christou, the former mayor and current councilor. “We’re going to make it clear tonight that … these kinds of books, same-sex parents books, don’t find their way to our kids,” said Christou during the floor debate. “Our kids shouldn’t be sexualized.” John Graham, the NSW arts minister, said this is censorship and may affect the library’s government funding. “When civilizations turn to burning books or banning books, it is a very bad sign. That is equally true for local councils,” said Graham. During the meeting, Christou referenced a book called “Same-Sex Parents” by Holly Duhig that was originally published in the U.K. He said that he received “really disturbing” complaints about the book and some parents were “distraught” to see the book in the children’s section of the library. Christou told Guardian Australia that the move is not meant to be targeted towards the LGBTQ community, but towards any books that promote “sexualization.” “We are a deeply religious community with deep family values,” he said. “I’m only representing the wishes of my community.” Photo via worldwidesurrogacy.org. PROPOSAL TO BAN GENDER-NEUTRAL TOILETS IN UK EUROPE E ngland is proposing to end the propagation of gender-neutral bathrooms. One of the reasons given by the government is that young women are afraid of developing UTIs because they won’t use the bathroom. She offered no actual case where this happened. The conservative government’s website declares the law will “halt the march of gender-neutral toilets.” This comes after a ‘crackdown’ on unisex toilets last summer. A YouGov poll finds 87% of UK residents want gender-specific toilets and changing rooms, but 35% believe unisex spaces should be an option. New construction of restaurants, shopping centers, and offices would be affected. Photo by Kaldari, via Wikimedia Commons. THE RAINBOW REVOLUTION AROUND THE WORLD

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14 • 5.16.2024 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 CRAIG JUNGWIRTH SKIPS ARRAIGNMENT, WARRANT ISSUED T he Hon. Melinda Brown and her court staff were in room 5165 of the Broward County Courthouse early Monday afternoon. So were BSO deputies, representatives from the prosecutor’s office, and alleged crime victims. The accused? Nowhere to be found. Craig Jungwirth was scheduled to be arraigned on stalking charges in Broward County on May 13. To the surprise of very few, he did not show up. Brown revoked his bond and issued a warrant for his arrest. If he is captured, Jungwirth will be held without bail. He has a long history of run-ins with the law and of people accusing him of violence and harassment. The judge said they had notified all of his known addresses, and says that fulfills the legal requirement that he be notified. Jungwirth was arrested last month in Okeechobee County, but was released on bond. No one has seen him since, but his presence is felt. Almost immediately upon release, he was accused of going back to his harassing behavior. NEWS • LOCAL John Hayden EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT CRAIG JUNGWIRTH “My mental health has gone down the tubes,” one victim, who asked to remain anonymous, told OutSFL after Monday’s hearing. “I’m in mental health therapy and on anti-anxiety medication.” Jungwirth’s harassment has been going on for years. He is accused of using online booking systems to inhibit a person from doing their job, creating fake websites that look similar to legitimate websites, and scamming people for money, and making slanderous posts on social media. One of his victims was terrified to go to court on Monday, but bravely faced his fears. “While at court, I felt like I couldn’t breathe. I was absolutely terrified of seeing that man in person, not knowing if he was going to show up or not.” OutSFL is told the bail bondsman in Okeechobee County has been notified that Jungwirth skipped court. If you see him or know where he is, investigators say you should call Broward County Crime Stoppers at 954-493-TIPS. Callers may choose to remain anonymous. Photo courtesy of Okeechobee County Sheriff’s Office. IF YOU SEE HIM OR KNOW WHERE HE IS, INVESTIGATORS SAY YOU SHOULD CALL BROWARD COUNTY CRIME STOPPERS AT 954-493-TIPS.

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16 • 5.16.2024 I t was a mic-drop moment. Literally. When “Dancing With the South Florida Stars” judge Gary Santis praised the performance of Velvet Lenore and Tony Lima, he noted the pair brought in a “ringer,” and only gave them a seven (out of 10). Lenore was having none of it. She gave Santis a piece of her mind and then some. The crowd was 100% there for it and erupted when she dropped the very expensive microphone to the ground. It was, without a doubt, the most electric moment of the night. Brian Neal and Bobby Blair brought the event back after a year’s long hiatus and are thrilled with the results. “The evening went incredible,” Blair said moments after the pageant. “Bringing the community together and recognizing our trailblazers and game changers has always been our vision. Supporting such a worthy charity was inspiring to everyone. The support was incredible.” The pageant was at The Venue in Wilton Manors, and the packed ballroom was a who’s who LGBTQ leaders and allies. They were there to watch local luminaries dance with entertainment professionals. The pairs were: Rolly Villaverde and Alyson Thomas representing Hotspots and Ms. Florida; Steven Edgar Ross Dybask and Vauz Allen for Equal Pride, Out.com and Advocate.com; Scott Szeker and Jessica Channing for Scandals; Jess Wolverton and Chris Caputo for Peak Fitness; Patrik Gallineaux and Jennifer McClain for Tropics Bar & Grille; and Tony Lima and Velvet Lenore for SunServe and Lips. The night was also a moment to recognize trailblazers in the community. Business honorees were John Manzi, George Kessinger, Victor Zepka, and Michael Murphy. Entertainment honorees were a trio of legends: Electra, Tiffany Ariegus, and Nikki Adams. The most touching and poignant moment of the night was the tribute to the late Deja Devonier. Devonier had been in each of the previous DWTSFLS events. Velvet Lenore and Nicole T. Phillips did a Dreamgirls performance while clips played on the screen. Blair says preliminary totals show the event raised between $7,000 and $10,000. BACK TO THE DRAMA Lima and Lenore were the final pairing of the night and had the crowd whipped into a frenzy, a frenzy that quickly turned on the judging panel, Santis in particular. Until his score was revealed, they had four 10s and were on the precipice of beating McClain and Gallineaux, who had a solid 48 (out of 50). But Lenore and Lima would have not only the last dance, but the last laugh. The top three teams were brought forward, and the winner was determined by applause. Lenore had that crowd in the palm of her wellmanicured hand and took the title. Any hard feelings? You’ll have to wait until next year to find out. RHUMBA FOR IMPROVEMENT Not everything went according to plan. First, there was no food. Originally planned as a three-course dinner, food was nowhere to be found. Blair said the decision was made weeks ago and guests were informed. However, many say they only found out Monday evening via texts from friends. Many people in fancy dress were spotted in nearby restaurants, including Spencer’s. Also, there were no same-sex couples dancing. Yes, some men danced with drag queens, but there were no male-presenting male-presenting or female-presenting female-presenting pairs. Blair says the teams formed on their own, and he had no say in the decisions. Third, the event didn’t seem to have an identity. While a dancing competition in name, some performances were more suited for a drag pageant, while others lip-synched. Many in the crowd weren’t sure which performance aspects and criteria were being judged. The morning after, Blair was already planning for DWTSFLS in 2025 and working on improvements. But, he’s very happy with how the return went. “I’m not quite sure there’s been a moment in our history where change makers and trailblazers come together on one stage.” ‘DANCING WITH THE SOUTH FLORIDA STARS’ BRINGS THE DRAMA Screenshot via OutSFL Live, YouTube. NEWS • LOCAL John Hayden

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18 • 5.16.2024 ALL HAIL THE QUEEN OF QUEENS MELISSA ST. JOHN Robert Cole & Ellen Dooley While award-winning female illusionist Melissa St. John has spent more than 40 years advocating on behalf of the LGBTQ community through both her artistry and tenacity when it comes to supporting those in need, she is quick to point out that there is still much to do in the battle for equality. Most recently, the drag community has come under fire through political grandstanding that has attempted to silence the performers who draw their very livelihoods from the art form. St. John was the Palm Beach County Coordinator for the 2023 Drag Queen March on Tallahassee that was spearheaded by her friend, activist and fellow drag performer, Darcel Stevens. St. John is quick to praise Stevens for uniting the drag artists throughout Florida, while pointing out that, “Drag is not a crime. It’s a crime to not support drag.” Without question, St. John reigns supreme as a drag icon in South Florida, but what audiences may not know is that she is also a civil rights activist, LGBTQ defender and ordained minister. She follows in the footsteps of her great-grandfather, Will Coleman, who was the President of the NAACP in Andalusia, Alabama, and a deacon in his church. The family’s dedication to community service and helping those less fortunate also extends to St. John’s aunt, Edith Bush, known for her leadership in establishing the Martin Luther King, Jr. Landmark Memorial in West Palm Beach, Florida’s, Currie Park. As a community leader, St. John has championed civil rights, anti-violence initiatives, marriage equality and has also lent her talents to a multitude of other community fundraisers over the last four decades. In 1987, St. John was a founding member of the Mother’s Cupboard charity and led its travelling troupe of drag queens across Palm Beach and Broward Counties. Mother’s Cupboard was instrumental in its efforts to raise funds through the gratuities given to the performers at each drag show. Photo by Arnauld Sylvain.

5.16.2024 • 19 These donations went to support and care for individuals impacted by HIV/AIDS. “It goes without saying that living with HIV/AIDS in the 1980s was far different than it is in 2024,” St. John says. “Like many people, I lost too many friends to AIDS. I remember watching the film ‘Longtime Companion.’ I cried so much during the movie. It was beautiful and heartbreaking at the same time. I felt as though I knew the characters and, in some ways, I did in my own life.” “I remember thinking that someday there will be a cure,” she adds. “But at least there have been medical advances and treatments. If only they could have come sooner. So many, many lives would have been saved.” St. John excuses herself for a few minutes and then returns to the interview. “I’m sorry for that. I just needed a moment.” “And to be cliché, the show must go on, right? Like I always say, if you can’t let your hair down, just take it off!” And indeed, the show has gone on for St. John. Her accolades are many and include being honored as OutSFL’s first Queen of Queens. The Court of Queens was created by OutSFL as a way to recognize the efforts of female illusionists who mentor the next generation of drag performers as both entertainers and LGBTQ community leaders. The recognition included launching the Melissa St. John LGBTQ College Student Scholarship Fund in her honor. She’s effusive as she discusses the Queen of Queens tribute bestowed upon her. “It was like Christmas morning when I heard the news. I cannot thank everyone at Out South Florida Newspaper and Magazine enough for this tremendous honor. I am truly humbled,” she says. “To be able to help LGBTQ college students is a dream come true. They are our future. It is our responsibility to help them succeed. For me, drag is magic. It has been a privilege to share the stage with so many iconic performers – each deserving of this honor in their own right.” St. John was born and raised in West Palm Beach. After flirting with a career as a flight attendant, she eventually went on to become a banker and successful business owner, but fate had more flamboyant ideas for the native Floridian. While working by day with amortization tables, St. John was also busy building a second career as a female impersonator. Invited to her first drag show by a co-worker, St. John was amazed by what she saw. “I was like, ‘Oh my God, this is so cool!’” And a couple of months after that, an actor friend invited St. John to be in a production of ‘Dreamgirls.’” St. John also started entering talent contests and winning. She is a former Miss South Florida Illusion Classic and recently pulled off the hat trick of being voted Palm Beach County’s Best Drag Performer, Best Entertainer and Best Artist in OutSFL’s inaugural Reader’s Choice Awards 2023. “It all really started at a bar called Kismet, and the first song I ever performed publicly was ‘Fame.’” St. John went from Kismet to Kevin’s, then on to Club Malibu and Heartbreakers. “That’s where everybody started knowing who I was, right around ‘90- ’91. Heartbreakers is where I built a big following.” Long hailed as The First Lady of the Palm Beaches, a better title for St. John, however, may well be Miss Congeniality. St. John’s contemporaries and fans have nothing but praise and admiration for the charismatic performer. Of special note, as part of the Ruby Royale tribute show held in February honoring St. John’s 40 years of community service, Palm Beach County Commissioner Gregg Weiss recognized St. John with a proclamation that chronicled her humanitarian efforts. With only a few days before the inaugural Mz OutSFL Pageant, where St. John will serve as co-host with Eagle Wilton Manors Owner Chuck King, she muses about presiding over the festivities as the Queen of Queens. “Rest assured, I’ll be wearing a crown. It is going to be an amazing pageant. And what makes it even more special is that proceeds benefit the LGBTQ college student scholarship,” she says. “I am so grateful to the contestants, sponsors, and everyone who will be in attendance.” As a pageant winner herself, St. John is asked one final question: What is the one most important thing our society needs? St. John smiles. “More drag queens,” she says. “And world peace.” FROM THE NEWSROOM THE MZ OUTSFL PAGEANT WILL BE HELD ON SATURDAY, MAY 18 AT THE SUNSHINE CATHEDRAL CENTER FOR PERFORMING ARTS LOCATED AT 1480 SW 9TH AVENUE IN FORT LAUDERDALE. TICKETS ARE AVAILABLE AT FLOCKFESTEVENTS.ORG. DOORS OPEN AT 6:15 P.M. PROCEEDS FROM TICKET SALES BENEFIT THE MELISSA ST. JOHN LGBTQ COLLEGE STUDENT SCHOLARSHIP FUND. Photo by Michael Murphy.

20 • 5.16.2024 Real heroes aren’t identified by costumes and capes. Real heroes are identified by their smile and their attitude. John Michael Gordon is one of them. He loves his community and, since moving here 17 years ago, Gordon has worked to improve himself and South Florida’s LGBTQ community. In addition to being one of the most sought after massage therapists around, the LMT is frequently seen at events: helping set up, take tickets, tear down, and anything needed in between. “The past year and a half has been learning about myself by giving back,” he said. “Volunteering has been a blessing and a classroom.” Events like community concerts, fundraisers, and parties don’t just happen. They require an army of volunteers. Gordon is constantly looking for ways to be a part of them, and always goes about his work with determined optimism. Recently, he publicly talked about a sizable donation he made to an event that never happened. He knew he wouldn’t get his money back, and he wasn’t motivated by anger. Gordon wanted to make sure others didn’t get duped. “Through volunteering, I’ve learned about commitment, patience, and loyalty. Giving back to others has also helped me give back to myself.” SINGING THE PRAISES OF UNSUNG HEROES FEATURE Julie Seaver is a force of nature. That’s what it takes to lead the fight for LGBTQ rights, health, and wellness in Palm Beach County. As CEO of Compass, she fights the day-to-day battles while also charting a course for a better tomorrow for LGBTQ people. Choosing her as the recipient for OutSFL’s Community Leadership Award was not a difficult decision. “I was so surprised and then felt incredibly honored to hear I was receiving Out South Florida’s Inaugural Community Leadership Award! I recognize that I don’t do this work alone, and have the privilege of standing on the shoulders of those who came before me years ago,” Seaver said. It helps to know her team has her back. “I have no doubt that Julie’s leadership will continue to drive Compass’ success,” Compass board chair Nicholas Coppala said. “We are all grateful to have the opportunity to work alongside such a remarkable leader. Congratulations Julie on this well-deserved award!” Compass organizes Pride every year in Lake Worth Beach, offers HIV testing, youth programs, and mental health services. Seaver and her team serve PBC one day at a time, and the LGBTQ community is better off for it. “Surrounded by an amazing and dedicated team of staff, volunteers and board members, it’s my honor to support Compass in forwarding our mission in saving lives every single day.” HERO AWARD JOHN MICHAEL GORDON COMMUNITY LEADERSHIP AWARD JULIE SEAVER Covering LGBTQ South Florida is an honor, a privilege, and a heavy responsibility. From our sales team to our webmaster and design teams to our reporters on the street, the OutSFL staff is deeply involved in every part of our community. When we decided to create the Mz OutSFL Pageant, we wanted to not only honor our drag entertainers and the Queen of Queens, Melissa St. John, but also the people who make our community function every day. Julie Seaver, John Michael Gordon, and Pridelines all work in the background. Whether it’s HIV testing, physically setting up an event, or offering a safe space when friends, family, or the world in general become hostile. We invite you to take a moment and learn about our honorees that come from all parts of South Florida. Our community is better because of them. You will be better and, perhaps, inspired by learning about their work. John Hayden Photo via LinkedIn. Photo via Facebook. From location changes to shifting political ground, Pridelines has faced daunting, nearexistential crises over the past few years. But they persevered and now are well into a resurgence led by first year executive director, Edward Summers. Now, the venerable organization is honored with OutSFL’s Community Impact Award. “We are deeply humbled by this honor. For more than 42 years, Pridelines have focused on being a supportive resource for the LGBTQ+ community,” Summers said. Pridelines is Miami-Dade’s LGBTQ community center, and there is much work to do. In addition to being a hot spot for new HIV infections, there are still deep cultural divides in the county. Their Project SAFE program helps homeless LGBTQ youth. They help people get on PrEP/PEP, offer mental health services, HIV testing and more. Their impact is far-reaching, even though often they don’t get the praises they deserve. “We believe in keeping our heads down and doing the important work of providing wraparound services for those most vulnerable while also engaging individuals who are in a position to give back or who are looking to build community and enhance their network in South Florida,” Summers said. This award allows them to take a step back and, for a moment, feel the gratitude of an entire community. “We are grateful for this recognition and acknowledge that we still have a tremendous amount of work to accomplish in supporting and empowering our community.” COMMUNITY IMPACT AWARD PRIDELINES

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22 • 5.16.2024 and and JUDY SHEPARD AWARDED PRESIDENTIAL MEDAL OF FREEDOM J udy Shepard, who has fought to erase hate in the memory of her slain gay son, was honored with the highest civilian award in the United States. Shepard, 71, received the Presidential Medal of Freedom in a ceremony at the White House. “This unexpected honor has been very humbling for me, Dennis and our family. What makes us proud is knowing our president and our nation share our lifelong commitment to making this world a safer, more loving, more respectful and more peaceful place for all,” Shepard said. Shepard was one of 19 recipients of the award. President Joe Biden called the group “incredible people whose relentlessly, curiosity, inventiveness, ingenuity and hope have kept the faith in a better tomorrow.” Shepard started the Matthew Shepard Foundation following the brutal murder of her 21-year-old son in 1998. Together with her husband Dennis, the Shepards have tirelessly advocated for enhanced Judy Shepard. Photo via Matthew Shepard Foundation, Facebook. crime fighting measures that cover sexual orientation and gender identity. In 2009, their hard work paid off when then President Barack Obama signed the Matthew Shepard and James Byrd, Jr. Hate Crimes Prevention Act into law. In an article published in the Human Rights Campaign Equality magazine, Shepard wrote, “Matthew’s legacy is not about hate. Matthew’s legacy is about understanding, compassion, acceptance and love.” NEWS • NATIONAL John McDonald

5.16.2024 • 23 Kathy LAST WEEK’S TOP 5 ONLINE STORIES JORGE MURSULI, FORMER SAVE CHAIRMAN, DIES AT 63 by John McDonald 5 MOTHER’S DAY DINING OPTIONS by Rick Karlin MARLINS HOLD PRIDE DAY; R HOUSE TURNS 10 & MORE by Rick Karlin 3 WIT, PRIDE, COMMUNITY, AND STICKY BUSINESS by Rick Karlin 4 NOMINATIONS NOW OPEN FOR OUT & PROUD 50 by Staff READ MORE AT OUTSFL.COM

24 • 5.16.2024 A POST-ROE MOTHER’S DAY WISH My mom died from COVID four years ago, just after Mother’s Day. I couldn’t write about it until I could be honest about who she was, a feat complicated by my thenpending Congressional race, which I lost in spectacular fashion. Apparently climate change isn’t at the top of voters’ concerns. Yet. The worst part of my mom’s death was that she — like most COVID patients — died alone in a sterile hospital room, with no family allowed to visit. Every time I tried to write this Mother’s Day column, my simmering anger at how Donald Trump mismanaged and lied to the country about the coronavirus percolated into a full boil that scalded my best intentions. Instead of honoring my mother’s truth without deflection or self-pity, I kept churning out bitter screeds about how elections have consequences, and our democracy wouldn’t be on the brink if only — if only — everyone who cares actually bothered to vote. My mother was extraordinary in many ways, including her oft-repeated 1960s disdain for a woman’s “fate” to be stuck in the house, raising children, while men got to “see the world.” The man whose ticket out of Southern Indiana she co-opted — my father’s — would buy her passage to the west coast, where he served in the Navy in Oahu, Hawaii. It was also where he brutalized her, us, and anything that moved, repeatedly, with impunity, and without regard to audience. Because of my father’s predilection for extreme violence, I became my mother’s caretaker from a very early age. After the final episode, complete with burst capillaries from her near-complete asphyxiation, we went into foster care. When my mom eventually got out of the hospital and rehab (wtf can be done, anyway, to “rehab” someone who was oxygen-deprived long enough for tiny red capillaries to burst all over their face?), we moved back to southern Indiana. My mother was so afraid my father would return from the Vietnam War and finish the job, she never sought child support, which meant years of dire poverty on top of whatever brain damage she sustained from the burst capillaries incident. Even in her compromised state, my mother knew that when a man promises to finish you off, he will keep his promise if given half the chance. So we moved to Huntingburg, Indiana, to live with my mom’s equally poor sister, Aunt Maggie. My mom and her sister Margaret were apparent small-town lookers whose beauty and ambition attracted the same kind of husband — one who needs to capture, then own and cage, a beautiful thing. Aunt Maggie was making her way as a newly single mother as well, and for the same reason. Shortly after we all moved in together, Aunt Maggie’s escape — and her life — ended abruptly. Her story and violent ending would upstage even my mother’s. Maggie’s death was a continuation of an unending rotation, a locked cycle of poverty and trauma. It was the same story played out across the country in the nightly news, only the names have been changed. In case anyone is unschooled in the ways of poverty, poverty causes trauma causes poverty causes trauma. After some years stuck on this decidedly American treadmill with one tragedy following the next, my mom eventually remarried a wonderful man, my stepfather Bob Hyde, who would stop to help a struggling beetle. While we were fortunate to have a kind benefactor in our lives, neither of my siblings overcame their early origins. You hear that formative childhood years — one through five — pretty much set the tone, and I guess that’s true enough in our case. I’m pretty sure the only reason I became “successful” (whatever VIEWPOINTS • OPINION Sabrina Haake THE HAAKE TAKE that means, here I mean financially) while my siblings floundered, was because my mom tapped me to take care of her, which meant early financial responsibility and an unusual work ethic. I started earning at 11, never stopped, and financially supported my mom and sister all my adult life. My brother Curtis, meanwhile, started his own povertytrauma treadmill, probably because it was what he knew, and today he runs on it still. My mother’s situation left her entirely dependent on me, and over the years, her dependence developed into raging neediness over all things, large and small. I’ll never know whether my mother’s mental health challenges were organic, or caused by extreme domestic violence. On the campaign trail, when I spoke about growing up with the effects of untreated substance abuse and domestic violence, I was talking about my father. When I spoke about growing up with untreated mental illness, I was talking about my mother. For sure, all three things in our household were interrelated, as they are in most every tragic, sad headline running in the evening news. The only Mother’s Day gift I can offer up now is full honesty and ownership of a story all too common in America. It’s a reality of extreme domestic violence, substance abuse, and untreated mental illness. It’s the American struggle of single moms so afraid of their abusers they live in poverty instead of seeking child support. It’s an American story that plays across racial lines, geography, and culture, one that state-forced births will only exacerbate, trapping more vulnerable women with their murderous abusers. My tribute to my mother is a siren of agency and honesty, so kids and mothers in the same situation know they are not alone. Stigma, and societal judgment, only make tragedies worse, which is why we should spare no time for them. Instead, we should salute the women and children who survive. I miss my mother. She was a stone around my neck, but she was my heavy necklace. It took me a minute to write this because the real tragedy wasn’t in how the country failed her at her death. The real tragedy is how our laws and our system failed to protect her — and hundreds of thousands of women like her — in life. So I guess my screed survives, after all. Stripped of angst, anger, regret and sorrow, it boils down to one simple word: vote. Sabrina Haake is a columnist and 25 year litigator specializing in 1st and 14th Amendment defense. Her Substack, The Haake, is free. Follow Sabrina Haake on substack Photo via Adobe. I MISS MY MOTHER. SHE WAS A STONE AROUND MY NECK, BUT SHE WAS MY HEAVY NECKLACE.

5.16.2024 • 25 “Love without judgement” A home for your spirit. Holy Angels National Catholic Church 1436 NE 26th Street Wilton Manors. 33305 Facebook.com/HolyAngelsFL www.HolyAngelsFL.org 954-633-2987 Mass Schedule: Sabado 6:00 PM misa en español • Sunday Mass at 11 AM in English • All are welcome! Join us for masked, socially distanced in person worship. 11 AM Sundays. Services also LIVE-streamed on Facebook and posted on website for safe at home viewing. Donate Your Car Imagine the Di erence You Can Make • Every donated vehicle will be properly recycled, reducing waste and harmful emissions. • Vehicle donations are fully tax-deductible and the proceeds help provide services to help the blind and visually impaired. Help Prevent Blindness Get A Vision Screening Annually FREE TOWING & TAX DEDUCTIBLE When you donate your car, you’ll receive: Donate Your Car • Every donated vehicle will be properly recycled, reducing waste and harmful emissions. FREE • Vehicle donations are fully tax-deductible and Call 1-855-758-0975 ✔ a $200 restaurant voucher ✔ a 2-night, 3-day hotel stay at one of 50 locations CONGREGATION ETZ CHAIM 2038 N. Dixie Hwy, Wilton Manors (Pride Center Building B) 954-564-9232 | etzchaimflorida.org [email protected] Friday Night Shabbat Service 8p.m. HOLY ANGELS CATHOLIC COMMUNITY 1436 NE 26th St, Wilton Manors 954-633-2987 - HolyAngelsFL.net Sunday Mass at 11AM ST. MARY MAGDALENE & ST. MARTIN EPISCOPAL CHURCH 1400 Riverside Dr, Coral Springs 954-753-1400 | www.stmmcs.net Sunday Worship 8:30am, 10:30am, 12:30pm (Spanish) ST. NICHOLAS EPISCOPAL CHURCH 1111 E. Sample Road, Pompano Beach 954-942-5887 | StNicholasFL.org Sunday Service 9:30AM SPIRITUALITY LISTINGS PLEASE CHECK EACH LOCATION'S SOCIAL MEDIA FOR THE MOST UP-TO-DATE INFORMATION REGARDING DATES, IN-PERSON ATTENDANCE FOR SERVICES, OR OPTIONS FOR VIRTUAL ATTENDANCE. STS FRANCIS AND CLARE CHURCH 2300 NW 9th Ave. (Powerline Rd.) WIlton Manors 954-731-8173 | stsfrancisandclare.org Sunday: 10:30 AM. Watch LIVE @ facebook.com/stsfrancisandclare UNITARIAN UNIVERSALIST FELLOWSHIP OF BOCA RATON 2601 St Andrews Blvd. in Boca Raton (just off Glades Rd., next to University Woodlands Park) (561) 482-2001 | www.uufbr.org Sunday service at 10:30 AM Eastern. Zoom Meeting ID: 914 8201 7108 Passcode: 952914 Join Us! 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

26 • 5.16.2024 CULTURE • FOOD NEW PLACES TO CHECK OUT Photo courtesy of The Federal. T his started as a round-up of new places to check out, but then my hubby and I went out with our friends Jeff and Mark and accidentally picked a place that was in the middle of their opening week. I don’t usually review places until they’ve been open for at least three months, so let’s just call this a preview. The Federal, inside the Panthers’ new Baptist Health IcePlex practice facility in Holiday Park, is a burgersand-beers spot with a sports bent. THE FEDERAL IN HOLIDAY PARK 800 NE EIGHTH ST., FORT LAUDERDALE 954-901-6412 THEFEDERALFTL.COM The dining areas look warm and relaxing with butcher-block tables and leather banquettes, although there are way too many TV sets for my taste. I can see having them in the bar section, but not in the dining room. The bar area overlooks the ice rink, and the pickleball courts, and the expansive patio also overlooks the pickleball courts, appropriate for a sports bar. The 200-seat venue will operate independently of the IcePlex. The restaurant may be accessed through the IcePlex, but patrons also can use a separate entrance on the opposite side of the building. Lunch and dinner starters include fish dip, guacamole, calamari, and poutine. The calamari was good and included fried peppers. The fish dip tasted as if it had been scooped from a container, and the Old Bay crackers listed as an accompaniment were just plain old Pepperidge Farm. The BBQ Burger is a good deal at just $18, with fries, as is the Cali-Burger, made with ground turkey and topped with avocado. Chicken Milanese was a little dry, but the accompanying arugula salad was well prepared. The star dish of the evening was Bang Bang Bowl, tempura shrimp over rice with pickled red onion, avocado, and Bang Bang sauce. It was a bit of a skimpy serving and could have easily been plumped up with some more rice to make it more substantial. Wine and beer were reasonably priced and there were some interesting mocktails. I look forward to seeing how The Federal develops. My one caveat is the number of children. We were there after a children’s ice hockey game so the number of kids may have been unusually high. Maybe later in the evening would be better if you don’t like little ones scampering around while you eat. TASTE OF BOYNTON BEACH TASTE OF BOYNTON BEACH, Thursday, May 16, will bring together restaurants, food trucks, vendors, artisans, and bands at Centennial Park from 6 to 10 p.m. Admission is free (the VIP Grand Tasting experience is already sold out). Attendees will find $5 items from more than 15 food trucks and vendors from Boynton Beach and surrounding areas including G’s Hibachi, Kona Ice of Boynton Beach, Poblano South, Rusty’s Caribbean Cuisine, TMI Food Truck, Awesome Empanadas, Kobschie’s Ice Rolls, and Island Smash Bahamian Cuisine. For more information, go to boynton-beach.org. RECENTLY OPENED WISEGUY PIZZA, 401 E Las Olas Blvd., Fort Lauderdale offers New York-style pizzas baked in stone-deck ovens. Go to wiseguypizza.com. B&D TRAP BBQ, 1551 NW 6 St., Fort Lauderdale has slow-cooked Texas barbecue on the menu. It also offers brisket and smoked turkey by the pound, full racks of ribs, chicken, crispy smoked wings, and Rick Karlin HOT DISH SIDE DISH Photo courtesy of B&D Trap BBQ. 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]. pulled pork. Go to bdtrap.com for more information. JARANA, part of the Esplanade at Aventura, is designed to reflect the lively, festive nature of a traditional Peruvian jarana, a celebration marked by abundant food, soulful music, and spirited libations. Watch for my review in the next issue of our magazine. Go to jaranarestaurant.com for more information. VAL+TINO at 620 S. Federal Hwy., in Rio Vista’s iconic 620 building, from chefs Giovanni Rocchio and Jake Abbott, is a celebration of Italian and Mediterranean flavors. Check out valandtino.com. TO-DO LIST [email protected] QUEENS & SHOPPING The Parker offers One Night of Queen, a tribute to the ultimate glam-rock stadium band, while Equality Park holds its After Dark Market Plaza. Decisions! Decisions! THURSDAY, MAY 16 COME ON, SHAKE YOUR BODY. BABY, DO THE CONGA I know you can’t control yourself any longer; Feel the rhythm of the music getting stronger; Don’t you fight it till you’ve tried it do the conga beat. It’s Candela Sundays at Le Boy with Latin Beats all night long. SUNDAY, MAY 19 MONDAYS DON’T GET ME DOWN I just go to Tropics for the 50% off dinner menu specials and entertainment by Jennifer McClain and suddenly, it’s the best day of the week. And, if I do have any concerns, I head over to the Pride Center for the Man 2 Man discussion group. MONDAY, MAY 20 HELLO, IT’S HIM The Parker welcomes Todd Rundgren. WEDNESDAY, MAY 22 [email protected] | Compiled by Rick Karlin BRING ON THE FUNNY (AND THE SEXY) Dania Beach Improv Comedy Club welcomes host Aniela McGuiness, guest Channing Crowder, and headliner Katherine Blanford. The Parker features the delightful mix of comedy and magic that is Michael Carbonaro’s forte, in his new show, “Lies on Stage.” Michael’s also very handsome, so he provides a wonderful transition to the sexy part of this section. The Eagle’s “Seduction” night with music by Joshua Ruiz and Broward Center welcomes the sexy same-sex couples of Dance Now! Miami: Pop. FRIDAY, MAY 17 THE DOGS WILL BE BARKING At the Pub on the Drive’s monthly Yappy Hour from 2-5, when you can bring your pup. After the Mz OutSFL Pageant at Sunshine Cathedral, hosted by Melissa St. John, when the girls take of their pumps, their dogs will be barkin’. Meanwhile, they’ll be “Jammin at the Pride Center” with Jesse Jones. SATURDAY, MAY 18 WINE, WOMEN & TRIVIA South Florida Bears host a Golden Girls wine dinner, with Golden Girls trivia, $60 plus gratuity. Tickets at Eventbrite. Coffee & Conversation for Seniors and Brothaspeak are both at the Pride Center. TUESDAY, MAY 21

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28 • 5.16.2024 STONEWALL PRIDE PARADE, THE KRAVIS CENTER’S 16TH SEASON, & NOVA SINGERS’ CONCERT Photo courtesy of Nova Singers. Rick Karlin THE GAYEST SEASON OF ALL The Kravis Center announced its 16th season of Kravis On Broadway season and it’s brimming with Tony Award-winning hits. The eight-show subscription series includes six West Palm Beach premieres. The season kicks off with “Mrs. Doubtfire,” running Oct. 29-Nov. 3. That’s followed by the ultimate holiday gift, “The Cher Show,” Jan. 7-12, and then “Funny Girl,” from Jan. 28-Feb. 2. Just when you thought the winter couldn’t get any gayer, along comes “Peter Pan” from Feb. 12-16, followed by “The Book of Mormon” from March 11-16, and then “Moulin Rouge! The Musical” from March 25-30. The season concludes with “Les Misérables,” running April 22-27. I may just have to move into MarA-Lago with Uncle Donnie, assuming he’s not in prison. BROADWAY TO HOLLYWOOD The Nova Singers will celebrate American composers (and a popular British friend) in their upcoming concert series “Blue Skies and Jubilant Songs.” The program will explore the variety of music, from Broadway to Hollywood to the American Songbook to spirituals. The concert will be performed three times, in three different venues: Friday, May 17, at Taft Street Baptist Church in Pembroke Pines, Sunday, May 19, at First Presbyterian Church in Delray Beach, and Tuesday, May 21, at St. Paul’s Lutheran in Weston. Tickets are $20 in advance and $25 at the door. Children 12 and younger, plus students of any age with school ID, are admitted free. For ticket information go to nova.edu/novasingers/. REMEMBERING MATTHEW SHEPARD The Master Chorale of South Florida will perform Craig Hella Johnson’s “Considering Matthew Shepard” on May 31 and June 1 at Sunshine Cathedral in collaboration with the Our Fund Foundation, a portion of ticket proceeds will directly support SunServe’s youth programs. “Considering Matthew Shepard” is a poignant three-part oratorio honoring the life and legacy of Matthew Shepard, a gay college student whose tragic murder 25 years ago ignited a global outcry against hate crimes. It is a fusion of musical genres, seamlessly blending classical, R&B, and country ballads to create a deeply moving and immersive experience. Tickets can be purchased at masterchoraleofsouthflorida.org. OFF THE BEATEN PATH Are you looking for a vacation off the beaten path? GoQueer has suggested five cities that are often overlooked as LGBTQ destinations, perfect for a getaway that’s not overflowing with tourists. Montreal, Canada, our northern neighbor’s second-biggest city, does stand out as a gem for LGBTQ travelers. It feels very European, the heart of the LGBTQ scene is the Gay Village. Santa Fe, New Mexico, the oldest state capital in America offers southwestern charm on a friendly, intimate scale. It’s also a haven for older LGBTQ folks, and with its rich history of art and nature, it’s the perfect place to visit. The city’s historic Plaza area serves as a focal point for exploration, surrounded by adobe buildings housing galleries, boutiques, and cafes. Osaka is Japan’s third-largest city. The beating heart of Osaka’s LGBTQ scene thrives in the Doyama district. Hvar, Croatia is an easy boat ride from Split or Dubrovnik. Hvar isn’t a big city, so there’s no “gay district,” but it’s just a five-minute boat ride from Jerolim Island, a rocky island with a nude beach with a gay section. Finally, Medellín is Colombia’s second-largest city and boasts a vibrant LGBTQ community. I call it South America’s answer to San Francisco. Zona Rosa, the lively gay nightlife hub. During Pride weekend in late June and early July, the city erupts with colorful celebrations, featuring parades, music, and joyous festivities. SHINING STAR BrightStar Credit Union is sponsoring this year’s Wilton Manors Stonewall Pride Parade and Street Festival, taking place on Saturday, June 15, in Wilton Manors. The festival is back with a variety of entertainment across seven stages, a block party festival, the popular Glow Night parade, a marketplace, and more. The festival runs from 3 to 11 p.m. and admission is $10 for pre-sale tickets ($13 at the door). ENTERTAINMENT • CULTURE CORNER HERE’S YOUR ENTERTAINMENT ROUND-UP

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30 • 5.16.2024 Our Services: • Roof Repair • Roof Replacement • Preventative Maintenance • Inspections FREE Quote 954-737-3520 Tile Shingle Metal In need of a repair or replacement? Contact our team Since 2002 Locally Owned Woman-Owned Owens Corning Platinum Preferred We are proudly S ummer is up and coming! With warmer temperatures, incoming Prides, an increase of pool parties also comes festival season. With Kirbiicon already behind us, we now have OtakuFest on May 17–19 to look forward to. OtakuFest, which is held at the Miami Beach Convention Center, is a celebration of Nerd & Geek culture which includes animation (both foreign and domestic, all ages and adult themed), cosplay, gaming (video and tabletop), comics, music, events, panels, and other celebrations of geek culture. One of the shows being highlighted is A24’s “Hazbin Hotel” created by Vivienne Medrano. A24 you might recognize as the production house that brought us the wildly successful “Everything, Everywhere, All At Once” and even the sillier “Dicks: The Musical.” This adult themed, animated, musical series focuses on Charlie Morningstar, daughter of Lucifer & Lillith, in her attempts to redeem and rehabilitate the sinners of Hell. One of those sinners is the porn demon Angel Dust, voiced by bisexual Broward up-and-comer Blake Roman. OutSFL had a chance to sit down with Roman to discuss his role in “Hazbin Hotel” its reception, and the transformation to go from mild-mannered Blake to ostentatious, freespirit Angel Dust. WHAT’S BEEN YOUR FAMILY’S RECEPTION TO THIS PROJECT, ESPECIALLY THE MORE RISQUÉ LINES? It’s been great! My immediate family loves it. My extended family had less appreciation for it. DID YOUR THOUGHTS CHANGE ON DOING VOICE OVER WORK AFTER YOUR EXPERIENCE WITH HAZBIN? I’d love to do voice over work again! I’ve been a big fan ever since I was younger. BLAKE ROMAN COMES TO OTAKUFEST Blake Roman at GalaxyCon Richmond in 2024. Photo by Super Festivals, via Wikimedia Commons. ENTERTAINMENT • ART Christopher Flores IS THERE ANYONE YOU WERE ESPECIALLY INTERESTED IN MEETING, CAST-WISE? I grew up playing video games. Getting to meet Keith David, who voiced the Arbiter in Halo was definitely a highlight of the premier. SPEAKING OF THE PREMIER, WHAT WAS YOUR FAVORITE BIT OF FAN ART YOU’VE SEEN? At the premier, someone had drawn all the characters in the cast’s clothes that we wore for that night. It was great! Since then, there’s just been such an outpouring of fanart that it’s hard to qualify which I like best. YOU HAD SOME ROUGH SCENES TO ACT OUT, SPECIFICALLY ONES INVOLVING SA. HOW WILL THAT INFLUENCE YOUR PERFORMANCE GOING FORWARD? I’m just trying to follow the character’s arc, rather than be in his head about it. LASTLY, ARE YOU LOOKING FORWARD TO DOING ANYTHING WHILE YOU’RE IN SOUTH FLORIDA? HAVE YOU BEEN HERE BEFORE? I’ve never been to South Florida before! The things I’m most looking forward to are being on the beach, drinking a blended drink, and soaking in some sun. THANK YOU VERY MUCH FOR YOUR TIME, AND I LOOK FORWARD TO SEEING YOU AT OTAKUFEST! Thank you as well. I’VE NEVER BEEN TO SOUTH FLORIDA BEFORE! THE THINGS I’M MOST LOOKING FORWARD TO ARE BEING ON THE BEACH, DRINKING A BLENDED DRINK, AND SOAKING IN SOME SUN.

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32 • 5.16.2024 We have much to be thankful for when it comes to illusionist Michael Carbonaro. For example, as an out gay man, he made sleight of hand safe for queer people. His comic chops are not only on display in his live stage shows but also in his acclaimed (and greatly missed) hidden camera show “The Carbonaro Effect,” as well as in “Another Gay Movie.” His appeal, including that dazzling smile and hot movie star looks, allow him to charm family and queer audiences alike. If you’ve never had the chance to experience the legendary Carbonaro effect yourself, now’s your chance as he brings his well-received stage his show at The Parker on May 17. GREGG SHAPIRO: ON AVERAGE, MICHAEL, HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE FOR ONE OF YOUR ILLUSIONS TO GO FROM CONCEPT TO PERFORMANCE? MICHAEL CARBONARO: I was just thinking about this the other day. We recently did a weekend of shows, and I was thinking to myself how much this tour that I’m doing right now, “Carbonaro: Lies on Stage,” has really gotten great. It’s not that it wasn’t good when I first started. But, man, getting to do dozens of performances of it, night after night in front of people, it just starts to really find a groove. It’s hard to say that it ever ends. I would say that if it’s a new routine, I’ll just jump up at a little club unannounced here in L.A. Maybe The Magic Castle or Black Rabbit Rose and throw in a new trick between two tricks that I already know. If it flops, you’re bookended with some solid stuff. I start breaking them in a little bit like that. The beauty of magic is that sometimes, as long as the plot happens, the person selects the card from you and then you find the card, as long as that part happens, you’re pretty much in the clear [laughs]. But as far as all the fun, and the jokes, and the routine, and what’s really going on, and the silliness, all of that takes time to develop. GS: I’M GLAD YOU MENTIONED JOKES, BECAUSE COMEDY AND HUMOR ARE RECURRING ELEMENTS IN YOUR STAGE SHOW. HOW IMPORTANT IS IT FOR YOU TO INCLUDE THAT IN YOUR ACT? MC: I think it’s just the fabric of who I am. I’m more about having an overall experience with my audience. It’s not an intellectual show where you’re like, “How did that trick work?” It’s not really about that. I like to have those moments of amazement, but it’s really all about the whole experience together, of having a fun, playful time. I think that comedy, much like horror movies, if done correctly, comedy with magic is a potent tool to make the magic stronger. It’s an arresting thing. It gets people off balance. You laugh, and then you’re like, “Whoa, how did that happen?” You kind of go back and forth from amazement to laughing and smiling and then you start not caring how the trick worked because you’re just having a good time. A lot of magic we see on television is in the realm of competition shows like “America’s Got Talent,” these people are really talented folks, but the danger of the format can be that people are learning how to do 30 seconds of something that looks really great for TV. If you were to go to a whole evening, that note gets old. Where’s the showmanship? It needs to be an overall theatrical experience. GS: WHEN YOU’VE PREVIOUSLY PERFORMED IN SOUTH FLORIDA, YOU WERE AT THE CORAL SPRINGS CENTER FOR THE ARTS. YOUR NEW TOUR BRINGS YOU TO THE PARKER IN FORT LAUDERDALE, A STONE’S THROW FROM THE GAY MECCA OF WILTON MANORS. WILL YOU HAVE TIME TO CHECK OUT THE SCENE ON WILTON DRIVE WHILE YOU ARE IN THE AREA? MC: We are going to try. We’re usually bouncing around like crazy. It’s a lot of stage lights and drives and hotel rooms. We don’t usually get to explore the town too much, but I will absolutely try. THE BEAUTY OF MAGIC Photo courtesy of Michael Carbonaro. ENTERTAINMENT • MAGIC Gregg Shapiro AN INTERVIEW WITH MICHAEL CARBONARO READ THE FULL STORY AT OUTSFL.COM.

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