Rainbow Pages 2022

BUSINESS & RESOURCE GUIDE 2022

SUPPORT

EQUALITY INCLUSION UNITY IN SOUTHWEST FLORIDA

INSIDE:

Business Directory Nonprofit Listings Events/Things to Do

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

Inside

News................................................4-6 Business Directory......................... 7-12 Legal............................................ 14-17 Higher Education........................ 18-19 Resources Guide......................... 20-24 Groups & Clubs................................ 25 Entertainment................................... 26 Things to Do................................ 27-28 Pride Events..................................... 29 Faith/Spirituality............................... 30

Contact Us

About the Rainbow Pages The Rainbow Pages features a business directory, nonprofit directory, events, information and resources that promote and support equality.

Print copies are mailed to subscribers and are made available at locations throughout Southwest Florida.

In addition to the print publication, there is an app for iPhone & Android, a website and a monthly newsletter. Businesses and nonprofit agencies are invited to share events on the Rainbow Pages website, which are also available in the app and are promoted in the newsletter.

A portion of the Rainbow Pages profit supports nonprofit organizations and events that support equality.

The Rainbow Pages is published by Rainbow Pages/MLH Creative Concepts. For more information, visit rainbowpagesswfl.com, email info@ rainbowpagesswfl.com or call 239-234-2420.

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Call: 239-234-2420 Email: info@Rainbowpagesswfl.com

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PUBLISHER............................................. Michelle Hudson

ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER...................... Derrick Selvey Shaw GENERAL MANAGER..................................... Michele Reno

GRAPHIC DESIGNER...............................Annelese Adames

To subscribe Visit our website at rainbowpagesswfl.com/subscribe

Copyright Rainbow Pages 2022 RAINBOW PAGES

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FROM THE PUBLISHER: NEWS OF NOTE

Keep moral compass pointed toward equality despite obstacles Equality, inclusion, and unity are strong values most of us share. No matter the path life takes us, our moral compass points to equality and respect.

In fact, within these pages you’ll find many local businesses and organizations that are proud to let everyone know they support eqaulity. They do not discriminate against anyone.

But, unfortunately, not everyone feels the same way.

This year we’ve faced some serious setbacks to LGBTQ+ rights in Southwest Florida, the state, and the nation. From “don’t say gay” to protests at Pride events, the Sunshine State has been in the national spotlight.

This negative attention has an impact on our quality of life and our local economy.

People are questioning whether they want to visit or move to Florida at all.

At the Rainbow Pages, we’ve seen a significant increase in calls from people who are looking to relocate to our area. They want to know if Southwest Florida is a gay-friendly place to live.

Although we always tell people this is a great place to live, we can understand their concern. We only hope that soon our state and our community will be known for its inclusiveness and not its divisiveness.

Our community can be paradise for all of us if our compass is always pointed toward equality.

Here is a brief look at some of the things that have happened this year to impact equality, inclusiveness and unity.

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‘Don’t Say Gay’ bill becomes law

In March, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis signed the “Parental Rights in Education” bill, which has been called the “Don’t Say Gay” bill.

It took effect July 1, and was the only state to have such a bill.

The law bans lessons, books, and materials on sexual orientation and gender identity in kindergarten through third grade.

In upper grades, it restricts what teachers can say to what is developmentally appropriate, without saying what that is.

Educators, school officials and opponents of the law have all expressed concern over what could be deemed inappropriate. It isn’t exactly clear.

The law also invites parents to file lawsuits against districts with inappropriate material.

The White House encouraged Floridians to challenge the law, saying it is part of a disturbing trend to discriminate against the LGBTQ+ community.

In a statement, the White House said in part: “This is not an issue of ‘parents’ rights.’ This is discrimination, plain and simple. It’s part of a disturbing and dangerous nationwide trend of right-wing politicians cynically targeting LGBTQI+ students, educators, and individuals to score political points. It encourages bullying and threatens students’ mental health, physical safety, and well-being. It censors dedicated teachers and educators who want to do the right thing and support their students. And it must stop.”

NEWS OF NOTE

Inaugural Youth Pride Conference Protested

One of the most positive things to happen in our community this year was the inaugural Youth Pride Conference hosted by GLSEN (Gay, Lesbian & Straight Education Network). It was designed to empower and educate LGBTQ kids ages 12 to 18 on topics such as mental health, inclusive sex education and other issues they are likely to face.

Daniel Selvey Shaw, who serves on the GLSEN Collier County board, said the event was so successful they are planning another one for next year. They want it to become an annual event.

During the conference, which had about 50 youth attending, protests took place outside. Although some protestors had to be removed from the premises, there was no violence or injuries.

Group Opposes Drag Shows

A group of people attended a Collier County Commissioners meeting following this year’s Naples Pride to complain about the drag shows at the event. They called the performances inappropriate for kids.

Naples Pride was held at Cambier Park in July this year after having to postpone due to weather in June.

It included drag queen performances, the same as it has every year.

The performances are also at most other Pride events.

A group of people upset with what they called “lewd performances inappropriate for kids,” took their complaints to the county and voiced them during an open meeting. However, the county commission had nothing to do with the event and isn’t even the entity responsible for approving permits for the event. The Naples City Council

gave the green light for the event and only received 1 complaint.

Despite the small number of complaints, it became a story that made it into the news far beyond Southwest Florida.

Schools Decline to Recognize LGBTQ+ History Month

On the other side of the state, the Miami-Dade School Board voted in September against recognizing October as LGBTQ+ History Month.

Part of the recognition would have included teaching 12th graders about two Supreme Court cases that impacted the LGBTQ community.

Last year, the board recognized LGBTQ History month but did not discuss the Supreme Court cases.

Other months are recognized to teach students about history including, Hispanic Heritage, Black history and women’s history.

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IN REMEMBRANCE

Community loses an advocate The Southwest Florida community lost a strong advocate this year with the recent passing of Ron Penn. He was truly a kind person who led by example and worked hard to make a difference.

He believed everyone should be treated with respect and he did all he could to fight for fairness and equality not only in Southwest Florida but also other states. Anywhere he lived, he got involved and made a difference.

Ron passed away at the end of July.

In 2018, the Rainbow Pages named Ron Penn as Advocate of the Year. He received the award in at Naples Pride.

Ron was one of the founding members of the LGBT Fund at the

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Southwest Florida Community Foundation. The Fund provides grants that support issues facing the LGBTQ community.

He was also a founding member of the Southwest Florida Harmony Chamber.

Ron had recently retired from the Southwest Florida Community Foundation, where he worked as the Chief Financial Officer and Chief Operating Officer for more than 10 years. He came to the Foundation after a 30-year career in the banking industry in Colorado and five years

as Chief Financial Officer and Chief Administrative Officer of a nonprofit in Hilo, Hawaii.

He served as a member of the Board of Directors of The Alexander Foundation, a charitable organization serving the LGBTQ community in Denver, Colorado. During that time served as President, Vice President for Fundraising and Vice President and Treasurer.

He also served as a member of the Board of the Historic Hilo Preservation Association, a 501(c) (3) charitable organization in Hilo, Hawaii renovating a historic theater, and served as Chief Financial and Administrative Officer for The Arc of Hilo, a 501(c) (3) nonprofit organization in Hilo, Hawaii serving developmentally disabled persons.

BUSINESS DIRECTORY

Supporting Equality, Inclusion & Unity

SWFL Businesses Accounting

Henderson Franklin Starnes & Holt, PA

Leslea Ellis, LLC CPA, Certified Fraud Examiner

Serving Fort Myers, Bonita Springs, Naples & Sarasota (by appointment only)

6326 Presidential Ct., Suite 2 Fort Myers, FL 33919 239-690-6500 lesleaellis.com Page 8

Advertising ActiveData Digital Marketing 1004 Collier Center Way, Suite 206 Naples, FL 34110 239-465-0310 activedatadigital.com Page 9

Attorneys CKing Justice Law, LLC

1400 Colonial Blvd., Suite 202 Fort Myers, FL 33907 239-362-1406 ckingjusticelaw.com Pages 14-15

1715 Monroe St. Fort Myers, FL 33902 239-344-1100 henlaw.com Pages 16-17

Attractions Butterfly Estates 1815 Fowler St. Fort Myers, FL 33901 239-690-2359 thebutterflyestates.com Page 11

Colleges & Universities Hodges University Campuses in Fort Myers & Naples pathways.hodges.edu 888-920-3035 Pages 18-19 RAINBOW PAGES

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BUSINESS DIRECTORY

Hodges University 4501 Colonial Blvd.

Fort Myers, FL 33966 239-482-0019

Naples Campus: 2647 Professional Circle Naples, FL 34119 239-513-1122

Dentists

Entertainment Bambusa Bar & Grill 600 Goodlette-Frank Road Naples, FL 34102 239-649-5657 bambusaonline.com

Broadway Palm Dinner Theater

Deborah Ruddell, DDS, PA 49 Barkley Circle Fort Myers, FL 33907 239-936-8616 ruddelldental.com Page 32

1380 Colonial Blvd.

Fort Myers, FL 33907 239-278-4422 broadwaypalm.com Page 26, 27

Our clients ... Can you see the difference? ... Neither do we

Supporting diversity and equality

Leslea Ellis, LLC

Certified Public Accountant  Certified Fraud Examiner (239) 690-6500 www.LesleaEllis.com 6326 Presidential Court  Suite 2  Fort Myers, FL 33919 8 • RAINBOW PAGES

BUSINESS DIRECTORY

Financial

Health & Wellness

Brad Jessen, Edward Jones

Cederquist Medical Wellness Center

Financial Advisor 12016 Matlacha Blvd., Suite C Matlacha Isles, FL 33991 239-283-2582 edwardjones.com Page 13

Fitness Increase the Peach Health & Fitness Studio

7181 College Parkway, Suite 10 Fort Myers, FL 33907 239-888-3720 increasethepeach.com

1575 Pine Ridge Rd, #19 Naples, FL 34109 239-593-0663 cederquistmedical.com Page 21

Hotels Inn at Pelican Bay

800 Vanderbilt Beach Road Naples, FL 34108 239-597-8777 800-597-8770 innatpelicanbay.com Page 28

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BUSINESS DIRECTORY

Jewelers Dunkin’s Diamonds 877-343-4883 dunkinsdiamonds.com Page 10

• Fort Myers: 11500 S Cleveland Ave. Fort Myers, FL 33907 239-277-1011 • Gulf Coast Town Center: 9918 Gulf Coast Main St.

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Fort Myers, FL 33913 239-267-4547 • Mercato: 9118 Strada Place, Suite 8120 Naples, FL 34108 239-431-6807

• Port Charlotte: 1441 Tamiami Trail Port Charlotte, FL 33948 941-255-1999

BUSINESS DIRECTORY

Leather Repair

Real Estate

Leather Medic

Todd Swaney, Realtor®

Lee & Collier Counties 239-482-2027 leathermedic.com Page 6

Berkshire Hathaway 6700 Daniels Parkway, Suite 4 Fort Myers, FL 33912 239-470-2973 ToddSwaney.com Page 31

Pet Care

Shoes

The Dogwash: It’s All About the Bath

New Balance Naples

939 Pondella Rd. North Fort Myers, FL 33903 239-574-9274

8799 N. Tamiami Trail, Suite 101 Naples, FL 34108 239-596-8788 Page 22

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BUSINESS DIRECTORY

Spirits Captiva Spirits

239-236-1007 captivaspirits.com Page 12

• Naples: 5811 Pelican Bay Blvd., #201 Naples, FL 34108 • Bonita Springs: 3960 Via Del Rey Bonita Springs, FL 34134

Travel Preferred Travel of Naples 239-261-1177 800-523-3716 preferrednaples.com Page 2

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To advertise your business in the Rainbow Pages, visit the website at rainbowpagesswfl.com, email us at info@rainbowpagesswfl.com or call 239234-2420.

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LEGAL

Setting up your business the right way is key to success The greater Fort Myers area has seen a tremendous amount of growth, both in terms of population and in infrastructure, over the last few years. As more and more people begin to call this area home, the demand and opportunities for business ownership is at an all-time high. It has literally never been a better time to make your dreams of owning your own business come true!

What is the first step of starting your own business? VISION! Every business owner once had a thought of starting their own business and went from there. Thinking of what types of goods or services you will offer, where your business will be located, what you want to name your business, what your space will look like, who your target client is, what a basic business plan might look like - those are all basic steps toward forming your own business.

When do I need help and who should help me?

If you have created a vision for yourself of what your business offers, where it will be located, and are ready to start exploring spaces and offering goods or services, you are likely ready to consult with a business attorney and take some concrete steps toward opening your business.

A business attorney is best suited to help you meet the legal requirements of starting a business and guide you through other parts of the start-up process, including: Incorporation: This is a vital and important part of the business start-up process. Understanding the different types of corporate business structures (Limited Liabil-

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Attorney Christine King (center) and Roxanne Janecki (right) meet with a client.

ity Company vs. Corporation) and the reasons for selecting a specific type of business structure for your unique business is crucial. Different business structures have different protections for the business owner, different tax benefits, and other differences that will impact your businesses, either positively or negatively, over the lifetime of your business. Choosing the most appropriate way to incorporate, and having an attorney assist you with the paperwork necessary to file at the state, federal, and local level, will set you up to reap the most benefits as an entrepreneur!

Contracts: As a business owner, you will have multiple moments where drafting a contract or reviewing a contract presented to you is a necessity. By and large, approaching contracts should be seen as a positive thing. Contracts govern so many aspects of business ownership, from your lease agreement to agreements with vendors/ supplies/contractors, to licensing agreements, franchise agreements,

and even the sale of your business.

Selecting a Florida business attorney to help you review and draft contracts can help you best protect your interests and avoid potential pitfalls.

Networking: No business owner makes it alone. One of the keys to success is understanding that your focus needs to be on the day to day aspects of running and enjoying your business. Hiring and aligning with experts to help you with things like marketing, insurance, legal issues, and tax preparation are smart ideas that will save you time and generate abundance in the long term. A good business attorney will help point you toward the people and services that can best support your business. ­— By Christine E. King, Esq. Christine King is the founder of CKing Justice Law, LLC, a local Fort Myers law firm helping new businesses flourish. She may be reached at 239-362-1406 or service@ckingjusticelaw.com.

Helping Businesses Make Their Mark WE CAN HELP GET YOUR BUSINESS STARTED THE RIGHT WAY!

Business Law Services: Business Start-Up Business Consultation Trademark Mediation

OUR MISSION The mission of the CKing Justice Law firm is to provide exceptional legal services to its clients. We believe communication is the key to happy clients and strive to provide updates and keep our clients informed of how their cases are progressing.

Copyright Contracts CALL FOR A FREE CONSULTATION!

239.362.1406 Ckingjusticelaw.com | 1400 Colonial Blvd, Ste 202, Fort Myers, FL 33907 RAINBOW PAGES

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LEGAL

Family Law & Lesbian Parental Rights In the divorce of a lesbian couple, can a family court judge deny parental rights to one partner of a child born during the marriage?

According to an Oklahoma family court decision, the “non-gestational” partner has no parental rights if she failed to adopt the parties’ child, notwithstanding that the child was born during the parties’ marriage, and the parties co-parented the child since his birth.

With the stroke of a pen, the family court judge ruled that the non-gestational partner’s name should be removed from the child’s birth certificate, and the parent should be treated as a stranger to the child she helped raise.

Oklahoma Divorce Proceeding This case involved a same-sex couple who married in 2019. They decided to have a child together using one of the partner’s eggs, fertilized by a sperm donor, and implanted in the gestational partner’s womb. Both partners’ names were listed on the birth certificate.

Both partners lived together and co-parented their baby until they separated and filed for divorce two years later A child custody dispute arose when they not agree on a holiday time-sharing schedule. As a result, the case went from a dispute about holidays to a court decision that found the non-gestational parent had no parental rights, denied her any custody or visitation with the child, and ordered her name to be removed from the birth certificate.

Rehearing Granted The non-gestational partner filed a motion to reconsider. Finding in favor of the non-gestational partner, the Oklahoma judge reversed her

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Beth T. Vogelsang

previous order which found that the non-gestational partner would have to adopt her baby boy to have legal standing as a mother. The judge’s recent order ultimately restored the non-gestational partner to the status of “legal mother” alongside her partner.

Florida Divorce and Gay Rights Florida legally recognized samesex marriage on January 6, 2015, giving same-sex couples the same rights as heterosexual couples with regard to divorce, parenting, and time-sharing. Same-sex couples can file joint tax returns, adopt children, and enter into prenuptial agreements before marriage.

Nevertheless, same-sex couples confront unique challenges in divorce. For example, if a same-sex couple lived together -- before they were able to legally marry in 2015 -- and accumulated assets together, under Florida law, the family law court is under no obligation to consider anything that happened prior

to the couple’s legal marriage.

The length of the couple’s marriage for purposes of alimony is calculated from the date of their actual marriage, even if they were in a long-term committed relationship prior to marrying. As with any divorcing couple, same-sex partners can overcome these challenges by proceeding on an uncontested basis and resolving their divorce with a written marital settlement agreement.

While Florida law is clear that a child born or conceived during a heterosexual marriage is a legitimate child of the mother and the “man to who she is married,” it is less clear whether this principle applies to same-sex marriages.

At least one Florida appellate court has applied the presumption of legitimacy in a same-sex marriage case. That court held that the non-biological spouse may enforce her parental rights with respect to children born prior to the date of the parties’ marriage where the parties married after the children were born, based upon Section 742.091, Florida Statutes, which provides that if the mother of any child born out of wedlock and the “reputed father” subsequently marry, the child is deemed to be the child of the husband and wife. McGovern v. Clark, 298 So. 3d 1244 (Fla. 5th DCA 2020). Since this is the only reported Florida appellate decision on the issue, it is an area of law that should be closely watched.

— By Beth T. Vogelsang, a stockholder at Henderson, Franklin, Starnes & Holt, P.A. She is a Florida Bar Board Certified expert in Divorce, Marital and Family law. Beth may be reached at beth.vogelsang@henlaw.com.

SCAN WITH YOUR PHONE TO LEARN MORE.

When It Comes to Legal Matters That Affect You, Your Spouse and Your Family, We Understand.

Henderson Franklin’s attorneys assist the LGBTQ community in Southwest Florida with: • Wills, Trust and Estate Planning • Prenuptial and Postnuptial Agreements • Adoptions and Surrogacy

• Real Estate • Homestead Exemptions

A FULL-SERVICE LAW FIRM SINCE 1924

Where Tradition Meets the Future.

Named one of the “2022 Best Law Firms”

by U.S. News & World Report and Best Lawyers in America©

henlaw.com • 239.344.1100 Fort Myers • Bonita Springs • Naples • Sarasota*

®

BUSINESS & TA X • BUSINESS LITIGATION • CONSTRUCTION • DIVORCE, MARITAL & FAMILY • EMPLOYMENT HEALTH CARE • INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY • LAND USE, ZONING & ENVIRONMENTAL • MERGERS & ACQUISITIONS R E AL ESTATE • TORT & INSU R ANCE • WILL S , TRUST & ESTATE PL ANNING • WOR K ER S’ COMPENSATION *By appointment only

©2022 Henderson Franklin Starnes & Holt, P.A.

HIGHER EDUCATION

What’s New at Hodges U? One of the many advantages of being a private, non-profit university is our ability to respond quickly to the workforce needs of our region. By constantly working with area organizations, both profit and non-profit, we build programs, both degree and non-degree, that provide the education and training that organizations want, and our students need.

It’s common knowledge that the demand for healthcare professionals will only continue to grow in our region.

Our newest program is the bacheDr. John Meyer lor’s degree in dental hygiene, the first and only of its type in Florida. Other programs are at the associate degree level. Why did we do this? Our students will have the added advantage of a bachelor’s degree, which opens even more professional doors and pathways for them. Starting in January 2023, we will open our community dental clinic, which features 20 treatment rooms, x-ray machines, and consultation space. Our dental hygiene students will perform oral mouth health screenings, take dental x-rays, and perform dental cleanings for patients – all for a low cost.

The students will be overseen by the program faculty who are experienced professionals in the field, and area dentists.

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Hodges University also has a quick-training path. One is a seven-week course to become an Emergency Medical Technician (EMT). Another is a six-week course to learn the foundations for dental assisting. If a student is a Lee County resident, he or she can potentially qualify through ARPA to take either program at no cost. There is a high demand for EMTs and dental assistants.

There is always a need for organizational managers. We’ve re-introduced The Wheel program. Students that bring previously earned credits from a college, university or the military can apply them towards a bachelor’s degree in organizational management, and can graduate in as little as one year. Classes are once a week on campus or in Port Charlotte. More to come!

We also see an increased need for Certified Public Accountants (CPA).

We developed a master’s in accountancy that can be completed in one year. It also includes two years of

the Becker Review, the gold standard in CPA exam preparation.

Our average student is 33 years old, the majority are female, and identify as Hispanic. Additionally, about 15 percent of the student body are military veterans. Hodges University was established in 1990 and now has over 14,000 alumni making a difference locally, regionally, nationally and internationally.

The University’s faculty are masters at teaching online, which has been available for students since 1995.

As the first designated Hispanic Serving Institution in the region, Hodges University has been teaching English as a Second Language (ESL) to students for over 20 years.

We continue listening to the needs of our region so that we can educate and train the professionals our community needs to thrive.

— By Dr. John Meyer, President, Hodges University

Realized.

YOUR DREAMS You have DREAMS. You have GOALS.

It’s that moment when you close your eyes and imagine your life.

A brighter future for you and your children.

Treasured time with family and friends.

Vacations. A home.

That car you’ve always wanted. A career you love.

TO GET THERE,START HERE. Admissions@Hodges.edu www.hodges.edu 239-938-7700 | Hablamos Español Hodges University is an equal access, equal opportunity organization.

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RESOURCES/ORGANIZATIONS

Supporting Equality, Inclusion & Unity

SWFL Nonprofits Abuse Counseling & Treatment (ACT)

ACT offers a 24-hour helpline, 3 safe shelters, children’s program, counseling, financial and health literacy, life skills education, job skills evaluation and training along with GED assistance and ESOL. 24-Hour Helpline: 239-939-3112 Administration: 239-939-2553 Website: actabuse.com

ACLU Collier County Chapter

The American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) works daily in courts, legislatures and communities to defend and preserve the individual rights and liberties guaranteed to all people in this country by the Constitution and laws.

Address: PMB 194, 6017 Pine Ridge Rd, Naples, FL 34119 Phone: 941-270-3907 Email: collieraclu@gmail.com Website: collier.aclufl.org

After the Rain

After the Rain of SW Florida Inc. provides housing for women recovering from substance abuse, homelessness and domestic violence. The mission is to help women develop healthy character in order to succeed in all areas of life through supportive services.

Phone: 239-333-8947 Email: atrswfl@gmail.com Website: aftertherainofswfl.org

Alliance for the Arts

The Alliance for the Arts is a nonprofit visual and performing arts center with year-round events, including gallery exhibitions, inspiring art classes and stimulating theatre productions. The Alliance is a creative space that spurs and supports self-expression, imagination and equity.

Address: 10091 McGregor Blvd., Fort Myers, FL 33919 Phone: 239-939-2787 Website: artinlee.org

Avow Hospice

Avow provides comfort, care, understanding and dignity to those who are seriously ill and their caregivers, as well as those mourning a loved one’s passing. The LGBT bereavement support program provides a safe, compassionate environment to share thoughts and feelings, receive sup-

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port and embrace healing. Avow also provides education and outreach to elder care facilities, care givers and others concerning eldercare issues facing the LGBT community.

Address: 1095 Whippoorwill Lane, Naples, FL 34105 Phone: 888-484-AVOW Email: info@avowcares.org Website: avowcares.org

Center for Progress and Excellence

It provides social and behavioral health services to the Southwest Florida region, in order to promote self-sufficiency and personal progress throughout the community, regardless of race, religion, gender, nationality, sexual orientation and economic status.

Address: 6360 Techster Boulevard, Fort Myers, FL 33966 Phone: 239-223-2751 Website: progressandexcellence.com

Collier Resource Center

The Center helps families and adults in need obtain assistance and navigate their way through the maze of health and human service organizations in Collier County. Utilizing Collier 211 line and other resources, the organization is able to provide personalized information and referrals.

Address: 2355 Stanford Court #701, Naples, FL 34112 Phone: 239-434-2030 Email: info@collierresourcecenter.org Website: collierresourcecenter.org

Collier Freedom

The Collier Freedom Movement is a grassroots nonpartisan organization based in Naples. Its mission is to create an inclusive community for a common vision of freedom, equality and social justice.

Address: P.O. Box 7392, Naples, FL 34101 Website: collierfreedom.org

David Lawrence Center

The center provides innovative, comprehensive inpatient, outpatient, residential and community-based prevention and treatment services for children and adults who experience mental health, emotional, psychological and substance abuse challenges.

Address: 6075 Bathey Lane, Naples, FL 34116 Phone: 239-572-9070 Website: davidlawrencecenter.org

RESOURCES/ORGANIZATIONS Deputy Dogs

The Deputy Dogs program, founded by Carmine Dell Aquila, provides children’s education and awareness on topics such as safety, health, proper treatment of animals, crime prevention, and other issues. Education programs include books, coloring books, posters, and other materials.

Website: deputydogs.com

Equality Florida

Consists of two organizations - Equality Florida Institute, Inc., a 501(c)(3) educational charity and Equality Florida Action, Inc., a 501(c)(4) advocacy organization.

Website: eqfl.org

Gender Equality Trust Network Foundation

The GET Network provides support and education for transgender individuals and their families. The organization’s mission is to empower, inspire, and facilitate trust and equality for everyone regardless of gender assigned at birth.

Phone: 239-443-6385 Email: info@get-it.network Website: get-it.network

GLSEN Collier County, PMB #8

GLSEN was formed to improve an education system that too frequently allows its lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender,

queer and questioning students to be bullied, discriminated against, or fall through the cracks.

Phone: 786-671-2390 Email: CollierCounty@Chapters.GLSEN.org Website: glsen.org

Hope Hospice

With specialized knowledge in pain and symptom management, a hospice team of professionals assists an individual and their family when a cure is no longer possible.

Address: 9470 HealthPark Circle, Fort Myers, FL 33908 Phone: 855-454-3104 Website: hopehospice.org

Laboratory Theater of FL

The Theater is dedicated to the promotion of the performing arts, through live performance, education, community outreach, experimentation and ensemble work.

Address: 1634 Woodford Ave., Fort Myers, FL 33901 Phone: 239-218-0481 Website: laboratorytheaterflorida.com

Lee County Legal Aid Society

They assist Lee County residents by providing legal representation while promoting financial and emotional stability.

Address: 2211 Widman Way, Fort Myers, FL 33901 Website: leecountylegalaid.org

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RESOURCES/ORGANIZATIONS Legal Aid Service of Collier County

This private nonprofit law firm provides free civil legal services to Collier County residents facing matters of life-changing significance, allowing them to protect their livelihoods, their health, and their families.

Address: 4436 Tamiami Trail East, Naples, FL 34112 Phone: 239-775-4555 Website: collierlegalaid.org

LGBT Community Fund of Southwest FL This is a fund of the Southwest Florida Community Foundation that engages like-minded individuals and organizations to increase philanthropic support for the LGBTQ community.

Address: Collaboratory, 31 Jackson St., Fort Myers, FL 33901 Phone: 239-274-5900 Website: lgbtswfl.com

McGregor Clinic

The McGregor Clinic, Inc. is a nonprofit providing a holistic approach to health care for those living with HIV. In addition to primary medical care, the clinic provides case management services, food and clothing assistance, mental health counseling and prevention education and testing.

Address: 3487 Broadway, Fort Myers, FL 33901 Phone: 239-334-9555 Website: mcgregorclinic.org

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My Autism Connection, Inc.

The organization assists individuals with Asperger’s Syndrome and Autism Spectrum Disorder with building friendships through social interaction while developing skills that promote productivity, employment and independence within the community.

Address: 8359 Beacon Blvd., Suite 311, Fort Myers, FL 33907 Phone: 239-201-8133 Website: myautismconnection.net

NAMI

The National Alliance on Mental Illness provides advocacy, education, support and public awareness so that all individuals and families affected by mental illness can build better lives. NAMI offers a variety of programs and resources, including support groups and peer-to-peer programs.

NAMI Collier County

Address: 6216 Trail Blvd., Naples, FL 34108 Phone: 239-260-7300 Website: namicollier.org

NAMI Lee, Charlotte & Hendry Counties

Address: 7275 Concourse Dr., Suite 300, Fort Myers, FL 33908 Phone: 239-337-9024 Website: namilee.org

Mr. D’s

DEPUTY DOGS Founded by Carmine Dell Aquila

We are passionate about educating youth about health and safety.

USA YOUR STREET

ELLY

Lieutenant Bosco

Gunner

Educational books | Posters | FREE coloring pages | Safety tips | Pet safety tips | And a Lot More...

Visit our website at deputydogs.com RAINBOW PAGES

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RESOURCES/ORGANIZATIONS Naples Pride

Naples Pride is a volunteer based grassroots 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that started in 2017. The organization operates The Center, a safe, supportive space for the inclusive LQBTQ+ community to gather, unite and create change. Through support and social groups, the Pride Center helps people empower one another, so they live to their full potential, all while educating the larger community.

Address: 2248 Airport-Pulling Rd. South, Naples, FL 34112 Website: naplespride.org

Naples Vet Center

The mission of Naples Vet Center is to welcome home and honor those who served, those still serving, and their families by providing them with quality readjustment counseling.

Address: 2705 Horseshoe Dr. S., #204, Naples, FL 34104 Phone: 239-403-2377

PFLAG

Parents, Families, and Friends of Lesbians and Gays (PFLAG) works to make sure all people who are lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer are not only valued by society, but take pride in and value themselves.

PFLAG‚ Fort Myers Website: pflagftmyers.com

PFLAG‚ Naples Meets at the Pride Center Website: pflagnaples.org

Planned Parenthood

Planned Parenthood provides LGBTQ information, education and services.

Website: plannedparenthood.org

Naples

Address: 1425 Creech Road, Naples, FL 34103 Phone: 239-262-0301

Fort Myers

Address: 6418 Commerce Park Dr., Fort Myers, FL 33966 Phone: 239-481-9999

Pride SWFL

The organization plans the annual Pride Fest in Fort Myers.

The mission is to provide the citizenry of Southwest Florida with a positive image of gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender people and to create functions and events promoting educational, civic, and cultural activities.

Email: info@prideswfl.org Website: prideswfl.com

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Project Help

A state-certified Sexual Assault and Rape Recovery Crisis Center in Collier County. The agency also works with the Collier County Medical Examiner’s Office to quickly identify families and children that are affected by sudden death.

Counselors work with clients on a mostly individual basis, but also provide family and couples counseling.

Phone: 239-262-7227 Website: projecthelpnaples.wordpress.com

SalusCare

A Fort Myers-based not-for-profit mental health and substance abuse service provider, SalusCare has seven locations throughout Southwest Florida. Fees are affordable and may be adjusted to the means of patients.

Address: 3763 Evans Ave., Fort Myers, FL 33901 Phone: 239-275-3222 Website: saluscareflorida.org 24/7 Emergency Care: 239-275-4242

Shelter for Abused Women & Children

Leading and collaborating with the community to prevent, protect and prevail over domestic violence and human trafficking through advocacy, empowerment and social change.

Phone: 239-775-3862 Email: info@naplesshelter.org Website: naplesshelter.org

United Way of Collier County

A volunteer-driven organization, they partner with hundreds of volunteers and more than 40 local charities to provide hundreds of human service programs. They also run Collier 211, a free 24-hour non-emergency human services helpline available by dialing 211, or text your zip code to 898-211.

Address: 9015 Strada Stell Court, Suite 204, Naples 34109 Phone: 239-261-7112 Website: unitedwayofcolliercounty.org

United Way of Lee, Hendry, and Glades The organization is a partnership of more than 100 agencies providing services for the community. United Way can help put people in contact with the right resources. To get help, dial 2-1-1.

Address: 7273 Concourse Dr., Fort Myers, FL 33908 Phone: 239-433-2000 Website: unitedwaylee.org

Visuality

The mission of Visuality is to enhance and sustain the health and well-being of the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer plus by providing activities, programs, educational events and services.

Website: visualityflorida.org

GROUPS/CLUBS

Nonprofit Groups & Clubs Flamingo Auto Group Gulf Coast

The members of this nonprofit organization share a common interest in automobiles but ownership of a classic car is not required. The Flamingo Auto Group Gulf Coast is a chapter of Lambda Car Club International. The group plans trips to car events, hosts a chapter car show and takes road trips. Founded in 1982, LCCI now boasts more than 3,000 members in more than 35 local chapters in the United States and Canada.

Website: lambdacarclub.com

Gay Social Network of Southwest Florida

Since 1994 The Gay Social Network has provided Southwest Florida’s gays and lesbians with a neighborly outlet for making friends and socializing. Activities include, monthly

socials, often at private clubhouses; weekly cocktail hour at local establishments; dining at the area’s fine restaurants; and bowling.

Phone: 239-434-1612 Website: gaysocialnetwork.com

Southwest Florida Gay & Lesbian Chorus

The Southwest Florida Gay and Lesbian Chorus, formed in 1993, is a member of GALA Choruses. GALA is a nonprofit that supports LGBTQ choruses to change our world through song. Every four years, GALA has a festival in which Gala Choruses across the world gather for a week of music, workshops and reaffirming their vision of the future.

Phone: 239-410-2025 Email: swflgaychorus@gmail.com Website: gaychorus.org

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ENTERTAINMENT

Broadway Palm Celebrates 30th Anniversary Season Located in Fort Myers, Broadway Palm is Florida’s Premier Dinner Theatre and currently celebrating its 30th Anniversary Season!

The theatre is open year-round and features nationally selected performers, dazzling sets and costumes, and a live orchestra.The show is just part of the package, as the chef puts his talent to work creating a delicious menu that changes with each production.

Broadway Palm’s main stage features the best of Broadway combining your favorite shows of the past along with the most recent musical hit sensations.

The smaller Off Broadway Palm Theatre showcases comedies and small musicals. In addition, Broadway Palm features four children’s theatre productions each season, an annual concert series, and special events throughout the year.

Broadway Palm is part of Prather Productions which also includes Dutch Apple Dinner Theatre in Lancaster, PA, now in its 36th season, along with an international and national touring company.

The entire company entertains a half a million guests each year and employs over 300 people.

Prather Productions’ mission is “Providing exceptional entertainment and customer service that creates a fun and memorable experience while enriching the communities we serve.”

—Submitted by Broadway Palm

26 • RAINBOW PAGES

Sister Act is one of the upcoming shows at Broadway Palm. You can see it starting April 14, 2023.

UPCOMING SHOWS

Here are a few of the upcoming shows at Broadway Palm, 1380 Colonial Blvd., Fort Myers, FL 33907.

For all shows and to buy tickets, visit broadwaypalm.com. Call the Box Office at 239-278-4422.

Show times

Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat Jan. 6-Feb 11, 2023 Jersey Boys Feb. 17 – April 9, 2023 Sister Act

Matinee: 11:30 Lunch, 1:00 Show April 14 – May 20, 2023 Evening: 5:30 Dinner, 7:30 Show Twilight: 5:30 Dinner, 7:00 Show

A Chorus Line Nov. 18 – Dec. 30 Irving Berlin’s White Christmas Oct. 7 – Nov. 12

Footloose May 26 –­ July 1

The Little Mermaid July 7 – August 12, 2023

EVENTS/THINGS TO DO

More at Broadway Palm: Off Broadway Palm Theatre Here are some of the upcoming shows at Off Broadway Palm Theatre, 1380 Colonial Blvd., Fort Myers, FL 33907. For information, visit broadwaypalm.com. Call the Box Office at 239-278-4422.

Not Now, Darling

This madcap farce features mistresses, minks, mobsters, mistaken identities, misguided shoppers, suspicious wives, and scantily clad women hiding in cupboards. A London fur salon owner sells his new mistress’ husband a fur coat for an extremely low price in order to win her affection, but things go array when the husband decides to give the coat to his own mistress!

Sept. 22 - Nov. 5

HA! HA! HO! The Holiday Show

Celebrate the season with this ha, ha, ho holiday revue! Enjoy lots of laughs and traditional holiday favorites you know and love. Join Santa, his elves,

a few reindeer and maybe even an Elvis or two!

Nov. 10 - Dec. 25

Just Desserts: A Musical Bake-Off

It’s sweet. It’s savory. It’s five strangers putting their hearts, reputations, and baking skills on the line to become the crème de la crème of bakers at a county fair. There’s a little mystery, a little romance, some potential cheating, and some back-stabbing and the results are deliciously satisfying!

Jan. 12 - Feb. 18, 2023

Doublewide, Texas

In this hilarious, fast-paced comedy, the inhabitants of one of the smallest trailer parks in Texas are thrown for a loop when they realize the nearby town of Tugaloo is determined to annex them.

Watch these colorful residents work on various ways to save their little community.

Feb. 23 - April 9, 2023

Proudly Celebrating 30 Years Of Entertainment!

Irving Berlin’s

WHI TE CHRISTMAS OCT 7 - NOV 12

NOV 18 - DEC 30

JAN 6 - FEB 11

JERSEY BOYS FEB 17 - APR 9

Subscribe AND SAVE!

APR 14 - MAY 20

MAY 26 - JUL 1

JUL 7 - AUG 12

Purchase tickets to five or more productions on the Main Stage, Off Broadway Palm or Concert Series and save $20 per ticket!

FLORIDA’S PREMIER DINNER THEATRE 1380 Colonial Boulevard, Fort Myers 239.278.4422・BroadwayPalm.com RAINBOW PAGES

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EVENTS/THINGS TO DO Cape Coral Oktoberfest

WHEN: Oct. 21-23 & 28-30 WHERE: German-American Social Club, 2101 SW Pine Island Rd., Cape Coral, FL 33991 INFO: capecoraloktoberfest.com

Bell Tower Car Show

Corvette and Open Car & Truck Show WHEN: Oct. 15, 8 am – 4 pm WHERE: Bell Tower Shops, 13499 S Cleveland Ave, Fort Myers, FL 33907 INFO: premiumcarshows.com

JEEP-O-WEEN

WHEN: Oct. 8, 4-10 pm WHERE: Millenial Brewing Company, 1811 Royal Palm Ave., Fort Myers, FL 33901 INFO: millennialbrewing.com

ney & Berne Davis Art Center, 2301 First Street, Fort Myers, FL 33901 INFO: sbdac.com

Arts and Ends Holiday Craft Show

WHEN: Dec. 3, 9 am – 1 pm WHERE: Alliance for the Arts, 10091 McGregor Blvd., Fort Myers, FL 33919 INFO: artinlee.org/event/artsale

MORE EVENTS More events are available on the Rainbow Pages app and online at RainbowPagesSWFL.com. You can also register online for our monthly newsletter to keep up on upcoming events.

SUBMIT EVENTS Submit your events at RainbowPagesSWFL.com.

Trunk or Treat

WHEN: Oct. 31, 5-8 pm WHERE: Alliance for the Arts, 10091 McGregor Blvd., Fort Myers, FL 33919 INFO: artinlee.org/event/trunk-or-treat

Rooftop Halloween Party

WHEN: Oct. 28, 8-11 pm WHERE: Sidney’s Rooftop Sculture Garden, Sidney & Berne Davis Art Center, 2301 First Street, Fort Myers, FL 33901 INFO: sbdac.com

Taste of the Town

WHEN: Nov. 5, 2022, 11 am - 6 pm & Nov. 6, 2022, 11 am - 6 pm WHERE Centennial Park, 2000 W First St, Fort Myers, FL 33901

(239) 597-8777

InnAtPelicayBay.com

Retro Rooftop Dance Party

WHEN: Nov. 25, 8-11 pm WHERE: Sidney’s Rooftop Sculture Garden, Sid28 • RAINBOW PAGES

800 Vanderbilt Beach Road Naples, FL 34108 Phone: (239) 597-8777 | Toll Free: (800) 597-8770 | InnAtPelicanBay.com

THINGS TO DO: PRIDE EVENTS

Pride Celebrations Around the State SOUTHWEST FLORIDA FORT MYERS

Pride Southwest Florida was scheduled for Oct. 1, but has been postponed until 2023.

INFO: prideswfl.com

CAPE CORAL

Pride Cape Coral WHEN: March 2023 WHERE: 909 SE 47th Terrace INFO: pridecapecoral.com

NAPLES

Naples Pride WHEN: June 2023 WHERE: Cambier Park, Naples INFO: naplespride.org

FORT LAUDERDALE

Pride of the Americas WHEN: February 10-12, 2023 WHERE: Fort Lauderdale Beach Park INFO: pridefortlauderdale.org

HOLLYWOOD

My Hollywood Pride WHEN: Jan. 29, 2023 WHERE: Downtown Hollywood INFO: myhollywoodpride.com

ORLANDO

Come Out with Pride WHEN: Oct. 15 (Events Oct. 1016) WHERE: Lake Eola Park, 512 E. Washington St., Orlando, FL 32801 INFO: comeoutwithpride.org

MELBOURNE

Space Coast Pride WHEN: Sept. 2023 WHERE: Downtown Melbourne INFO: spacecoastpride.org

MIAMI BEACH

Miami Beach Pride

WHEN: April 15-16, 2023 WHERE: Various event locations INFO: miamibeachpride.com

WHEN: March 25, 2023 WHERE: Historic Ybor City INFO: tampapride.org

PUNTA GORDA

VENICE

TAMPA

For more events, visit rainbowpagesswfl.com.

Peace River Pride WHEN: Feb 25, 2023; Noon - 7 pm WHERE: Gilchrist Park, 400 W. Retta Esplanade, Punta Gorda, FL 33950 INFO: allrainbowandalliedyouth.org

Tampa Pride Street Festival & Diversity Parade

Venice Pride Annual Community Festival WHEN: November 12, 2022; 11 am – 4 pm WHERE: Centennial Park, downtown Venice INFO: veniceflpride.com

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FAITH/SPIRITUALITY All Faiths Unitarian Congregation

Redeemer Lutheran Church, ELCA

Fort Myers Congregational United Church of Christ

Saint John the Apostle Metropolitan Community Church (MCC)

Iona-Hope Episcopal Church

United Church of Christ in Naples

Naples Alliance Church

Unitarian Universalist Church of Fort Myers

• Address: 2756 McGregor Blvd., Fort Myers, FL 33901 • Phone: 239-226-0900 • Website: allfaiths-uc.org

• Address: 8210 College Parkway, Fort Myers, FL 33919 • Phone: 239-482-3133 • Website: fmcucc.org

• Address: 9650 Gladiolus Drive, Fort Myers, FL 33908 • Phone: 239-454-4778 • Website: ionahope.org

• Address: 2504 Estey Ave., Naples, FL 34104 • Phone: 239-774-0320 • Website: naplesalliancechurch.org

Naples Jewish Congregation

Meets at the Laboratory Theater in Fort Myers.

• Address: 1634 Woodford Ave., Fort Myers, FL 33901 • Website: redeemerfortmyers.org

• Address: 3049 McGregor Blvd., Fort Myers, FL 33901 • Phone: 239-344-0012 • Website: sjamcc.com

• Address: 5200 Crayton Road, Naples, FL 34103 • Phone: 239-261-5469 • Website: naplesucc.org

• Address: 13411 Shire Lane, Fort Myers, FL 33912 • Phone: 239-561-2700 • Website: uucfm.org

Meets at Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Greater Naples • Address: 6340 Napa Woods Way, Naples, FL 34116 • Phone: 239-431-3858 • Website: naplesjewishcongregation.org

Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Greater Naples

New Day Metropolitan Community Church of Naples

Unity Church of Bonita Springs

• Address: 975 Imperial Golf Course Blvd., Suite 111, Naples, FL 34110 • Phone: 239-529-3977 • Website: gowiththecurrent.org/new-day-mcc 30 • RAINBOW PAGES

• Address: 6340 Napa Woods Way, Naples, FL 34116 • Phone: 239-455-6553 • Website: uunaples.org

• Address: 28285 Imperial Parkway, Naples, FL 34135 • Phone: 239-947-3100 • Website: unitybonita.org

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