The Pride LA - Jun 2023

Celebrate Pride: Official LA Pride Events This June

By Susan Payne

Los Angeles’ annual celebration of Pride Month is coming soon. Since 1970, the LA Pride Parade has garnered hundreds of thousands of people in support of the LGBTQ+ community and this year, the festivities continue!

Here’s a list of official Pride events and details:

LA Pride Salon Series @ The Getty — Queering the Lens is an evening of conversation and celebration kicking off celebration for LA Pride weekend. Starting at 6 p.m. on June 7, three Los Angeles-based photographers — Rick Castro, Amina Cruz and Texas Isaiah — will discuss powerful artwork that spotlights and celebrates underrepresented LGBTQ+ communities.

They’ll discuss the varied subcultures and personal relationships explored in their work and reflect on how these subjects have forget their art practices. Following the talk, join a

celebration to kick off LA Pride weekend in the courtyard of the Getty Museum, view the exhibition Tim Walker: Wonderful Things, and enjoy complimentary bites, a hosted bar and music by DJ Daisy O’Dell. Tickets can be purchased here.

Pride is Universal — An LA Pride fan favorite, Universal Studios Hollywood is hosting an after-hours theme park experience open to all ages June 8 from 9 p.m. to 1 a.m. including Super Nintendo World. The event features live DJs, Universal character meetand-greets, photo ops, musical guests and drag performers. VIP ticket options include earlier access to the park at 2 p.m., Universal Express access to the park’s attractions, premium viewing areas at the main stage and exclusive access to the LA Pride VIP lounge.

Tickets can be purchased here

LA Pride in the Park — On June 9 and 10, LA Pride in the Park will be headlined by Megan Thee Stallion and Mariah Carey and

featuring other guests such as Fletcher, King Princess, Symone, Gigi Goode, Dorian Electra, G Flip the Scarlet Opera and more!

The event will run from 3 p.m. to 11 p.m. that Friday and 1 p.m. to 11 p.m. on that Saturday at the LA State Historic Park, 1245 Spring St.

To purchase single-day tickets or Weekend Passes, go to lapride.org. General admission and VIP options are available for either day.

Charging lockers will be available for rent, a place for you and your friends to store merch and other times, and charge your phone in between sets. Pride in the Park tickets can be purchased here.

LA Pride Parade — The 53rd annual LA Pride Parade hosts nearly 145,000 attendees cheering on a procession of music, performance and surprises. The parade starts at 11 a.m. on June 11. Adjacent to the Parade route in Hollywood, Pride Village will host a number of booths, activities, food, live performances and more!

LGBT Night at Dodger Stadium — The Dodgers are hosting their annual LGBTQ+ Pride Night at Dodger Stadium on Friday, June 16 at 7 p.m. Ticket packages include a game ticket and an exclusive Dodgers LGBTQ+ jersey. That night, the Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence will receive the Community Hero Award during the pre-game ceremony. Pregame starts at 5 p.m. Tickets can be purchased here

LGBTQ Night at Cinespia — .Watch the Rocky Horror Picture Show at the LA State Historic Park Saturday, June 24 from 9-11 p.m. Tickets are sold out, but attendees can shiver with anticipation for the sweet transvestite who sizzles and struts with anarchic glee. Information on this event can be found here.

WeHo Welcomes Pride Revelers to Celebrate Pride Month

By Susan Payne

Excitement is brewing for all things Pride in Los Angeles for the month of June and there are so many events and activities planned to help you celebrate.

Here are details of some of the events happening in West Hollywood:

WEHO ARTS FESTIVAL

West Hollywood kicked off its annual WeHo Pride event on Harvey Milk Day, May 22, with the start of a 40-day WeHo Pride Arts Festival that lasts through the end of June. Formerly known as the One City One Pride LGBTQ Arts Festival, WeHo Pride Arts Festival is a culmination of more than 15 events and artist receptions that give full representation to LGBTQ artist culture and experiences.

Angelic Troublemakers Exhibition — an

exhibition of digital drawings and photographs relating to theme of LGBTQIA+ Pride at the West Hollywood Library, June 1 through August 24, 2023. This exhibition is free to visit and open during regular library hours.

My Own Private Rodeo by Coyote Park — an exhibition of new works by Coyote Park at ONE Gallery, 626 N. Robertson Blvd., from June 1 through June 30, Friday through Sunday from noon to 5 p.m. These works move through feelings of grief, mourning, loss, pride, redemption and play. Coyote asks, “What does it mean for myself to exist in a way that my elders weren’t allowed to?” It is in the deepest place of isolation where Park finds a site where they are a personal spectator of their own pain and their own transformation.

Rainbows, Wigs and Shades — a Pridethemed installation and celebration of

diversity not only of the community but also of the diverse sides within each of us, playing dress up with items like wigs and glasses to express our various alter egos by artist Dustin Gimbel, open from June 1 to June 30. Artist reception is Thursday June 1 from 6-8 p.m. at 8624 W. Sunset Blvd.

WeHo Reads: Shining Like Beacons — a reading presented in collaboration with Lambda Literary that features Kamden Hillard, K-Mind Chang, Golden and Natalie Wee online Wednesday June 14 from 7-8:30 p.m. RSVPs are encouraged here.

Beautiful Things Craft Market — a craft market by local LGBTQIA+ artisans and craft makers both indoor and outdoor with a curated selection of ceramics, fiber and textile crafts, handmade jewelry and more on Saturday June 17 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. On the same day in

Plummer Park, there is an LGBTQ Comic Con presented by arts grantee Prism Comics and a casual day in the park organized by Women’s Freedom Festival.

Q Con — an LGBTQ+ comic con celebrating the diversity of LGBTQ+ comics, games and popular media. Cosplay and join the fun at Plummer Park, 1166 N. Vista St on Saturday, June 17 from 10 to 5 p.m.

Drag Story Hour — presented in partnership Pride Month, see page 4

Mariah Carey and Megan Thee Stallion to Headline LA Pride in the Park

By Susan Payne

Global superstars and Grammy awardwinning artists Mariah Carey and Megan Thee Stallion will headline LA Pride’s 2023 LA Pride in the Park on June 9 and 10 at the Los Angeles State Historic Park.

LA Pride, produced by Christopher Street West Association (CSW), will hold LA Pride in the Park, a two-day festival celebrating pride and the LGBTQIA+ community in southern California, headlined by these global superstars. Across 32 acres and with a capacity for 25,000, LA Pride in the Park is one of the most sought after and largest Official Pride concerts in the country. Additionally, the official theme for this year’s Pride season is “All Out with Pride,” which celebrates the LGBTQIA+ community’s diversity, resilience, and joy.

Mariah Carey is a multi-hyphenate force, achieving success as a singer, songwriter, record producer, actor, and a New York Times bestselling author. Referred to as the “Songbird Supreme” by Guinness World Records, she is noted for her five-octave vocal range, melismatic singing style, improvisation skills, her signature use of the whistle register, and songwriting. Carey has been credited with helping to revitalize the music industry in the 1990s and is considered one of the most influential female singers of all time. She has sold over 200 million records worldwide and is one of the best-selling music artists of all time. Carey has won five GRAMMY Awards, 19 World Music Awards, and 14 American Music Awards. She is also the

first artist to have a number-one single in the United States in each of the 1990s, 2000s, and 2010s. Carey has been a longtime ally of the LGBTQIA+ community and has spoken out in support of equality and acceptance.

In 2016, she received the Ally Award at the GLAAD Media Awards for her work to advance LGBTQIA+ rights. In addition to her advocacy work, Carey has also been a vocal supporter of LGBTQIA+ artists and creatives.

“I’m thrilled and honored to be a part of LA Pride 2023,” said Carey. “I am happy to be back in person celebrating with the LGBTQIA+ community here in Southern California and throughout all of the lands!!! Let’s come together to celebrate love, inclusion, and Pride.”

Megan Thee Stallion is a three-time GRAMMY-winning recording artist, philanthropist and entrepreneur. From earning two Billboard Hot 100 No. 1 hits with the “Savage (Remix)” featuring Beyoncé, and “WAP” with Cardi B to releasing her dynamic album “Traumazine,” Megan has proven unstoppable. Megan has been recognized for her musical achievements, including three GRAMMY wins, nine BET Awards and back-to-back Billboard Music Awards for Top Rap Female Artist. Additionally, she has been honored for her advocacy efforts, having received the 2022 Special Achievement Award at The Webby Awards and the Trailblazer Award at the iHeartRadio Music Awards.

as one of TIME’s 100 Most Influential People of 2020 after publishing her monumental “Why I Speak Up For Black Women” op-ed for The New York Times. Megan’s philanthropic work was heralded by Houston Mayor Sylvester Turner, who presented her with the key to the city of Houston and a proclamation that officially designated May 2, 2022 as Megan Thee Stallion Day in her hometown.

and celebrate the phenomenal LGBTQIA+ community,” said Megan. “This incredible event advocates for diversity, inclusivity and equality, so I’m honored to perform and have a blast with all of the Hotties in attendance.”

Early Bird Single Day and Weekend passes are sold out. General Single Day ($69) and Weekend ($119) as well as VIP Single Day ($299) and VIP Weekend ($549) are now available to purchase at lapride.org.

Pride Month,

From page 1

Gay Men’s Chorus of Los Angeles — favorite songs from the chorus’ recent concerts in an outdoor event at West Hollywood Park, 647 N. San Vicente Blvd., on June 17 from 7 to 8:30 p.m.

The rest of the WeHo Pride Arts Festival itinerary can be found on wehopride.com/ artsfestival.

WEHO PRIDE PARADE

An imaginative and colorful annual tradition, the WeHo Pride parade along the Santa Monica Boulevard embraces LGBTQ+ representation, inclusions and progress. This year, the icons for the WeHo Pride Parade will be RuPaul’s Drag Race Laith Ashley, Niecey Nash-Betts and Jessica Betts, and Melissa McCarthy. These trailblazers and allies will be honored for their work in bringing LGBTQ community and social justice issues to the forefront.

Starting at 12 p.m. on Saturday, June 4 at N. Crescent Heights Boulevard at Santa Monica

Most recently, Megan made history in Nov. 2022, becoming the first Black woman to appear on the cover of Forbes’ prestigious Under 30 issue. She was previously recognized

In 2021, Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee awarded Megan the 18th Congressional District Hero Award in Houston for her humanitarian initiatives. out against the intolerance of the LGBTQIA+ community within the hip-hop genre. She told People magazine in a 2021 interview that, “Representation is important, and it is really crucial for us all to have compassion and acceptance of every human.”

“I can’t wait to headline LA Pride in the Park

Boulevard, the parade will travel westbound along the boulevard into the heart of City’s Rainbow District to N. Robertson Boulevard. For those unable to attend in person, tunein for WeHo Pride Parade coverage on KTLA 5, the official broadcast partner of the 2023 WeHo Pride Parade.

WEHO PRIDE STREET FAIR

On Saturday, June 3 and Sunday, June 4, the WeHo Pride Street Fair will celebrate Pride with diverse participation of LGBTQ+ community groups and allied organizations as part of visibility and expression. The Street Fair is free, featuring a vibrant variety of exhibitors along Santa Monica Boulevard between Hancock Ave. and La Peer Drive.

WOMEN’S FREEDOM FESTIVAL

At the WeHo Pride Street Fair community stage, watch live emerging LGBTQ and BIPOC women and nonbinary musicians, comedians, poets and activists perform, hosted by Jackie Steele and Stevi Shari. Guest speakers include Queen Chela, Jayla Baxter and Liana Georgi on Saturday, June 3 from 12 to 6 p.m.

DYKE MARCH

Following the Women’s Freedom Festival, the Dyke March will take place at the WeHo Pride Street Fair community stage Saturday,

June 3 from 6-7 p.m. This annual celebration features speakers, community activists and the March, led by a motorcycle contingent.

OUTLOUD at WEHO PRIDE

Although RSVPs are no longer being accepted, WeHo Pride Presents Friday Night at OUTLOUD will take place Friday, June 2 at 6 p.m. at West Hollywood Park, 647 N. San Vicente Boulevard.

OUTLOUD Weekend and WeHo Pride pass holders will be guaranteed access to this event, featuring top talent with headlines Grace Jones on Saturday and Carly Rae Jepsen on Sunday. The full weekend line-up includes performances by Passion Pit, Orville Peck, Santigold, Princess Nokia, Yung Bae, La Roux, Meet Me @ The Alter, Jodie Harsch, Rubio, Cub Sports and Black Belt Eagle Scout. For more information on these events and many more, visit www.wehopride.com/ calendar.

West Hollywood has been home to the one of the largest annual Pride celebrations in the United States, drawing hundreds of thousands of revelers every June.

Home to the “Rainbow District” along Santa Monica Boulevard, which features a concentration of historic LGBTQ clubs,

restaurants, and retail shops, West Hollywood consistently tops lists of “most LGBTQ friendly cities” in the nation. More than 40 percent of residents in West Hollywood identify as LGBTQ.

“Mariah Carey and Megan Thee Stallion are the perfect artists to headline LA Pride in the Park this year as we expand to two days,” said Gerald Garth, board president of LA Pride. “These empowering and iconic women are sure to take the stage by storm to celebrate the LGBTQIA+ community and will undoubtedly make this year’s LA Pride in the Park an unforgettable experience.” with the staff at West Hollywood Library, this story hour will be read by Amber Crane on Saturday, June 17 at 11 a.m.

Pride is deeply rooted part of West Hollywood’s history and culture. Pride events have taken place in West Hollywood since 1979, five years before the City of West Hollywood was incorporated as a municipality in 1984. Historically, Pride in West Hollywood was produced by the nonprofit organization Christopher Street West (CSW), which formed in 1970 to organize a parade in commemoration of the 1969 Stonewall riots.

In 2022, the City of West Hollywood inaugurated WeHo Pride with programming that represents a diverse array of LGBTQ community groups as part of visibility, expression, and celebration, including continuing to support partners’ Pride events. West Hollywood is a community of choice for LGBTQ people from throughout the region, the state, the nation, and the globe and WeHo Pride embraces a source of deep connection for its unique LGBTQ history and culture.

EVERY DAY SAFE

June 1-30

SMPride.com

Santa Monica Pier, Downtown Santa Monica, and Santa Monica Place, in collaboration with the City of Santa Monica and Santa Monica Travel and Tourism, present

SaMo PRIDE: an entire month of festivities to raise awareness and celebrate the LGBTQ+ community, individuality, inclusiveness and acceptance.

Trio of LA Pride Grand Marshals Will Set Stage

By Susan Payne

A trio of grand marshals will take this year’s LA Pride Parade to another level Sunday, June 11 at its original historic location in Hollywood.

The Icon Grand Marshal is comedian, actor and activist Margaret Cho, who has achieved major milestones with their career and industry. The Community Grand Marshal, which celebrates a group or individual who has had a powerful influence through their work and dedication to and for the LGBTQ community is the ACLU of Southern California.

New this year, is the posthumous tribute to Emmy-winner Leslie Jordan as the Legacy Grand Marshal, in honor of Jordan’s everlasting impact on the community.

“I’m thrilled and incredibly honored to be the Icon Grand Marshal,” said Cho, in a news release from Christopher Street West Association (CSW). “We need this Pride more than ever. I have been attending Pride celebrations since 1978 and this time around the need to celebrate as well as unite is more urgent than it has ever been. Our love is greater than their hate.”

“On behalf of Leslie Jordan, we are overjoyed by Christopher Street West’s

heartfelt recognition to name Leslie as LA Pride’s Legacy Grand Marshal,” said Jana “Cricket” Jordan. “This honor further solidifies the positive impact he made in the world, but more importantly for the LGBTQ+ community. His spirit continues to bring love and light.”

“For a century, we’ve been on the front lines fighting for people to be their true, authentic selves,” said Hector Villagra, executive director of the ACLU SoCal. “We’re honored to be the Community Grand Marshal and proud to love, live among, and protect LGBTQ Californians.”

THE GRAND MARSHALS:

Multi-hyphenate artisan and activist Cho is a five-time GRAMMY and Emmy nominee. Cho staunchly supports the causes that are important to her: antiracism, anti-bullying, gay rights, all while fulfilling her successful creative side with a legendary stand-up career that has yielded 10-plus comedy tours. Her recent television appearances include Season 2 of The Flight Attendant (HBO Max), Season 2 of Hacks (HBO Max), and two Netflix is a Joke comedy specials: Stand Out: An LGBTQ+ Celebration and Jane Fonda & Lily Tomlin: Ladies Night Live. Her most recent feature Grand Marshals, see page 19

WESTSIDE GETAWAY GUIDE 2023

Champagne Yacht: A One-of-a Kind Charter Experience

By Susan Payne

This summer, elevate a special occasion by taking it on the water — yacht style.

Charter off the San Diego harbor and have a one-of-a-kind birthday, corporate event, celebration of life/burial, engagement, family reunion or other special occasion on Champagne, a private luxury motor yacht certified, licensed and insured for up to 49 passengers.

Built in Florida in 1983, the Bertram motor yacht owner David Levkowitz completely remodeled Champagne to add a full gourmet kitchen, household-sized appliances, two bars, two guest bathrooms and professional sound system.

“Everything inside was replaced so that our yacht guests can have the time of their lives. We cater to special occasions, milestones and events you want to remember, lifetime experiences,” Levkowitz said. “We’ve been officially licensed for charter since 2019.”

Under the amazing San Diego skyline, a private setting and customizable options, Champagne Yacht is ready to help you create a one-of-a-kind lifetime experience with your friends or family or workplace.

“Private rentals on Champagne are so fun and full of life, no one ever regrets investing in a private celebration, you are creating lasting memories. Some of my favorite moments are when guests are amazed at the skyline or sunsets that we can see from the yacht,” said Levkowitz. “Champagne helps elevate the

celebration even more. Guaranteed the best time for you and your guests.”

The yacht departs and returns from Point Loma Sport Fishing in San Diego. For additional fees, groups may board at the Marriott/Hyatt marina in downtown San Diego. Charters are scheduled in four-hour increments from 12-4 p.m. or 5-9 p.m. On select weekends, 10 p.m. night cruises are available.

“We’re the only private yacht in San Diego that has a commercial license, and we love hosting groups of all sizes up to forty for any occasion,” Levkowitz said.

Champagne cruises downtown, the Super Yacht dock, past the USS Midway, under the famous Coronado bridge, by the Hotel Del then anchors near the Coronado Golf Course in the scenic Glorietta Bay so guests can swim, play on the floaties, drink, dance and lounge in the boat.

A licensed captain, bartender and deckhand is included on the boat to ensure a safe voyage and excellent service. Champagne Yacht has a wide range of catering options for events, but guests are welcome to bring their own food and beverage items, Levkowitz said.

“Anytime you book a private yacht, especially Champagne, you’re planning to have the time of your life. It’s a special, unique way of celebrating those milestones.” said Levkowitz.

Charters start as low as $3,500 for a threehour cruise Monday through Thursday, or $4,500 for a four-hour cruise Friday through Sunday, excluding holidays, peak summer

weekends and special events.

Arrangements for your special occasion such as a DJ, saxophonist, catering, private chefs, specialty cakes, balloon decorations, party buses or limousine transportation, photographers and videographers are available for booking, as well.

“We’ve had guests propose to their significant other surrounding loved ones and friends on Champagne and we’ve had some celebrate 75th and 90th birthdays, the possibilities are limitless. We’re here to help make your celebration that much more special,” said Levkowitz. “A party on

Champagne is one you’ll never forget.”

Champagne hosts corporate events, team building activities, birthdays, wedding celebrations, anniversary parties, family reunions, graduation parties, proposals and celebration of life/burials at sea and more upon request.

Champagne Yacht reservations for the summer season are filling quickly. More information and vibrant photos from Champagne parties can be seen here. Reservations can be made here.

By Susan Payne

Learning a new language can be difficult, but with the right tools, it can be a complete learning adventure.

ChidoLingo Language School combines private online lessons with cultural experiences, founded by Uriel Benitez of Mexico City and Ryan Brown of Los Angeles, who believe the best language learning techniques are one-onone lessons with a native teacher, coupled with immersion excursion abroad.

With ChidoLingo’s private online tutoring and personalized lessons, the programs give you individual attention and exposure to a variety of accents and styles of conversation.

“We both know the struggles of learning a new language, so we get how hard it can be. We’ve built ChidoLingo from the ground up with a focus on understanding and relating to students’ needs,” said Brown. “You can learn at your own speed and get instant feedback, which helps you understand faster.”

Most students start with private online tutoring. ChidoLingo offers a free 30-minute Spanish trial class in which you will meet the teachers ahead of your private lessons — experienced, qualified native-level speakers who love to teach.

Lessons focus on language competencies

By Susan Payne

For all your travel and exploration needs, H. Savinar Luggage Co. is a dealer you can trust.

Serving Los Angeles with two brick and mortar locations, H. Savinar has been helping generations of family find brand name, quality luggage since its inception in 1916 — over 100 years ago — and is one of the oldest luggage stores in the United States.

Whether you are looking for luggage with multi-terrain maneuverability or security and durability for peace of mind while traveling, your next destination should be an H. Savinar Luggage Co. in either Culver City, which opened in February of this year, or Canoga Park.

“Our warehouse is filled with one of the largest selections of nationally advertised brands of luggage, briefcases, laptop cases and travel accessories at the guaranteed lowest prices,” said Joey Diamond, owner of H. Savinar.

Diamond has had a 39-year relationship with the company, starting out as a monogrammer, then moving into sales, and eventual ownership of the company in 2016, after the 2010 passing

including speaking, conversational skills, grammar, vocabulary, reading and writing. With these skills, Spanish learners are able to speak confidently in any situation, understand native speakers from across the globe and feel comfortable building simple to complex sentence structures.

As you progress, you’ll delve into more advanced topics like ser, personal pronouns, nouns, adjectives, prepositions, verbs and conjugations. Beginner, intermediate and advanced courses are available.

For those who like a challenge, ChidoLingo has a challenge course that exposes students to a variety of different accents and styles of conversations within a three-month time period, packed with 36 different lessons and three different teachers. As a bonus, if you complete your classes in under three months, ChidoLingo offers a 30% refund.

Through ChidoLingo, students can sign up for an Immersion Excursion — a trip to Mexico City where you put your new language skills to the test in a real-life environment. Each day is packed with learning opportunities, personalized Spanish lessons and activities and tours designed to show you the Mexican culture.

“By immersing yourself in the vibrant Mexican culture, you’ll not only gain a deeper

understanding of Spanish, but also experience an incredible opportunity of a lifetime,” Brown said. We don’t just teach you the language, we open the door to the amazing and vibrant Mexican culture.”

Immersion Excursion is a safe and fun experience that includes a private teacher to guide you as you learn about the culture while practicing Spanish. You’ll visit places like Frida Kahlo Museum, Xochimilco, Chapultepec Castle and more.

ChidoLingo’s affordable and accessible classes gives students the freedom to customize their study plan, schedule classes at their convenience and access 24/7 virtual tutoring.

“We believe that learning Spanish is the key

Online Program Invites Spanish Learners to Dive Into Culture A Favorite Among Frequent Travelers: H. Savinar Luggage Co

of Lewis Savinar, son of former owners Hyman and Harold.

“I quickly jumped into Lewis’s shoes to keep the business running. This was especially difficult because of how close we were. Lewis treated me like a son, and he was widely respected in the industry. Not easy to fill those shoes,” Diamond said.

H. Savinar carries most major brands such as Briggs & Riley, Victorinox, Bric’s, Samsonite, Delsey,Travel Pro, Pacsafe, High Sierra, McKlein, Roncato and Swiss Army, and is an authorized dealer for every line.

“We have the lowest prices in the industry. Whatever your travel needs are, we have the right bag at the right price and we’re here to service it if anything goes wrong,” Diamond said.

Throughout H. Savinar’s 106 years of business, the company has forged excellent relations with a number of manufacturers and customers, giving you the best options for luggage that fit your need.

“We treat customers like family here. This is one of those stores that right when you walk in, you know you’re going to have a good experience. We don’t just try to sell you a piece

of luggage. We find out your traveling habits and needs to find you the right bag. Once we find it, we’ll make sure you know all the features,” said Diamond.

Before a piece of luggage leaves H. Savinar’s warehouse, each item is inspected for quality. The company is also an authorized repair center for many manufacturers.

“We’ve seen a lot of changes in the 106 years we’ve been in business, but one thing that hasn’t changed is our dedication to our loyal customers,” Diamond said.

MONGRAMMING AND CORPORATE SALES

In addition to a numerous selection of luggage, H. Savinar offers personalized monogramming and embroidery services — initials, names or company logos. For luggage, this is essential in differentiating your personal belongings from another while traveling.

to appreciating our wonderful mouthwatering food, incredible music, diverse traditions and super friendly people,” said Brown. “We’re excited to be your partners on this incredible Spanish-learning adventure. Let’s go amigo!”

Class packages for adults and children start at $17 per hour. Each class lasts 60 minutes and most students progress through ChidoLingo’s levels at around 40 hours.

ChidoLingo is designed to push your learning boundaries, but many former ChidoLingo students have testified that the effort in learning Spanish is it worth it for language skills.

You can become a ChidoLingo student — learning Spanish or English in a fast and effective way — by registering online.

For companies looking to treat their employees, H. Savinar offers company logo monogramming or embroidery and individual labeling and shipping direct to your customers.

H. Savinar Luggage can be found in Culver City at 10730 Washington Boulevard (323-9382501), open Monday through Friday, 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. and Saturday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Canoga Park at 6931 Topanga Cyn Boulevard (818-703-1313), open Monday through Saturday 10:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

More information can be found on savinarluggage.com.

Explore Pacific Ocean Views and Recreation at Ventura Harbor Village

By Susan Payne

Getaway to scenic Ventura Harbor Village and enjoy breathtaking views of the Pacific Coast nestled in Ventura, just an hour up the coast from Malibu and Los Angeles and right off Highway 101/1.

Come seek your “seaside state of mind” this summer at Ventura Harbor Village to unwind and relax on the water, land, or mix of both for the weekend.

“We are thrilled to welcome in guests this summer to enjoy our sandy beaches just steps from the vibrant waterfront attraction of Ventura Harbor Village and the wonderful Channel Islands National Park Visitor Center,” said Santa Monica native Jennifer Talt Lundin, the marketing manager at Ventura Harbor and Ventura Harbor Village.

Whether with family, friends, or a galcation, so much to choose from between casual and sit-down waterfront dining options at 15 restaurants to savor American, Cuban, French, Greek, and Mexican cuisines. Ventura Harbor Village is known best for fresh seafood markets and seafood dishes with a variety of choices from mouth-watering Fish N’ Chips, fish tacos, handcrafted clam chowders, oysters, ceviche, salmon salads, and much more!

Plus, fun boardwalk style sweet treats await like FishZookie ice cream cones, the famous Dole Whips, personalized chocolate bars, cupcakery, and colorful cocktails by the sea. Check out Wild Local Seafood’s brick & mortar store at Ventura Harbor Village to take home fresh sustainable catch! You can find them weekly at several of the local Farmers Markets.

This coastal seaside playground gives guests the opportunity to shop one-of-kind coastal boutiques, artisan spaces, galleries, and specialty stores. Ventura Harbor Village is the perfect getaway for waterfront relaxation.

WHAT

Deep Sea Wine Tasting: This new wine room offers wine lovers to toast the coast with unique blends of reds and whites, each produced in small bath production. Daily tastings offer a selection of both Conway and Deep Sea wines from Santa Barbara and compliment a variety of palates. Overlooking the boats, Deep Sea Wine Tasting Room also hosts weekly special activities.

On The Alley: “OTA” is the more casual sister-venue to popular Brophy Bros. Restaurant & Clam Bar in Ventura Harbor Village, boasting wonderful harbor view seating, outdoor patios, surf videos and photography artwork that showcases the local landscape. Stop by OTA for a quick, casualfriendly breakfast line up including smoothies, breakfast burritos, bowls and French toast sticks. Lunch and dinner menus are available for casual favorites like Fried Avocado Taco, burgers, and seafood dishes and make sure to try Brophy’s award-winning Bloody Mary.

Ventura Boat Rentals: It’s summer, so why not spend time on the water! Rent kayaks, electric boats, stand up paddle boards, or a mix of character pedal boats that include ducks, swans, flamingos, and dragons in a selection of colors of the rainbow at Ventura Harbor Village.

Andria’s Seafood Restaurant & Market: Visitors come from miles away weekly for Andria’s Seafood Restaurant & Market’s famous Fish N’ Chips, seafood dishes, stacked onion rings, warm clam chowder in sourdough bowl, and so much more! Such generous portions and so delicious!

Island Packers: Cruise all five of the islands that make up the Channel Islands National Park and National Marine Sanctuary. From half and full day trips, camping, kayaking, and hiking, Island Packers suits all ages and interests. This summer, one-hour evening harbor cruises are available on select Saturdays in June, July, and August, thru October, and catch a glimpse

of whales in the channel with summer whale watching excursions.

Ventura Harbor Village has an abundance of activities to choose from including The Ultimate Escape Room, Frenchies Modern Nail Care, beach volleyball courts, scuba dive lessons and trips via Ventura Dive and Sport, live music from Rock N’ Roll to Bluegrass, nighttime entertainment like comedy or dancing. Pro-tip : Weekdays in the summer are great too for ease, peace, and relaxation!

UPCOMING SUMMERTIME FUN

Weekends in July & August feature the summer tunes with a live DJ from Noon to 3 p.m. every Saturday on the Promenade Stage. On Sundays, be whisked away on a tropical

Family-Friendly Business Provides Sport Fishing in Marina Del Rey

The Company Offers Whale Watching, Open Party Fishing Trips and More.

By Zach Armstrong

Serving the coastal edge of Los Angeles since 1965, Marina Del Rey Sportfishing Inc. provides all walks of life from around the world the experience of sport fishing in the

Pacific Ocean.

The company offers whale watching, bait dock and dock fishing, open party fishing trips, and more. Most trips happen within a 20-mile radius of Marina Del Rey. The types of fish caught depend on the season, such as Halibut or Sea Bass in the Spring and Red Snapper, Grouper or Lingcod in the Winter.

“Fishing is great in this area and really consistent. People can really enjoy a nice experience on any one of our boats, whether it’s a half day or three-quarter day public trips, our rock cod red snapper trip, or one

of our many private charters that we run,” said Rick Oefinger, president of Marina Del Rey Sportfishing. “We’re the legitimate sport fishing company of Marina Del Rey.”

Private business will often book with the company for fishing events either for celebrations or business trips. Private birthday parties often take place with Marina Del Rey Sportfishing as well, with smaller fish being caught for those at younger ages.

The company has been under the management of Captain Oefinger since 1990. Working on boats and running sportfishing is

vacay with the smooth sounds of steel drums on the water in July & August.

Relax, sit back, and watch an outdoor movie under the summertime sky on the last Saturday of the month - June, July and August -at sunset. “Jaws,” “Goonies” and “Moana” are all in the line up! Grab dinner here seaside and join in the pre-movie fun! (Bring chairs and blankets) Seek the good vibes this summer with a day trip up the coast to Ventura Harbor Village. Complimentary parking and admission. Unwind, connect & SEA.

For visitor info & updates visit www. VenturaHarborVillage.com or follow @ VenturaHarbor. Ventura Harbor Village is located at 1583 Spinnaker Drive in Ventura.

something Rick says he’s done his whole life since the age of 14. Rick distinguishes Marina Del Rey Sportfishing from other similar businesses by being safe, affordable and family-friendly.

Paddle Pub Offers New Sightseeing Experience in Marina Del Rey

“Experience the Marina Like Never Before: Paddle Pub Introduces Pedal-Powered Boat Tours”

Paddle Pub is thrilled to announce the highly anticipated grand opening of Paddle Pub Marina Del Rey, set to take place in June 2023. As the largest man-made harbor in the United States, Marina Del Rey provides the perfect backdrop for this exciting new venture.

Paddle Pub Marina Del Rey offers 26-passenger pedal-powered boat tours that allow guests to bring their own beverages and snacks while immersing themselves in the beauty and sights the area has to offer. Lasting approximately two hours, these tours provide ample opportunities for sightseeing, observing sea life, admiring magnificent vessels, and even dancing, among other experiences.

One of the key features of Paddle Pub Marina Del Rey is the presence of a Licensed Captain and an event host aboard the Duchess Pub. The Captain ensures the vessel keeps moving when

guests grow tired of pedaling, while the host ensures a memorable time for all.

“Paddle Pub has dedicated over a year to meticulously planning our launch in Marina Del Rey, and we are thrilled to finally hit the water and offer both locals and tourists a unique way to celebrate,” remarked Paddle Pub Management.

Paddle Pub Marina Del Rey will be conveniently located at 13645 Fiji Way, Marina Del Rey, CA 90292, providing easy access for visitors.

About Paddle Pub: Paddle Pub is a one-ofa-kind 26-passenger pedal-powered pontoon boat, designed to create the ultimate party on the water. Complete with a state-of-the-art sound system, 12 pedaling stations, a spacious backbench, and vibrant party lighting, Paddle Pub allows guests to pack a cooler with snacks and drinks while pedaling their way through the renowned Marina Del Rey Harbor.

With its upcoming opening, Paddle Pub

Your Surprise Guide to Quintessential California Road Trips

By Susan Payne

If creating memorable travel experiences is on your bucket list for 2023, One California Day, a sustainably minded experiential travel company based in Los Angeles, should be your first destination.

Boasting a handful of curated surprise daytrip itineraries to California’s most alluring and lesser known destinations, founder Trina Hendry created One California Day as a road trip reimagined.

One California Day is as easy as choosing a themed trip, receiving an itinerary through the mail or digital download and then heading out on your adventure.

“People are looking for reasons to get out of the house and these curated one-day trips make it so easy to do just that,” Hendry said. “Planning a trip, even a day outing, takes personal time and research, which is something we are all running short on these days. At One California Day, we’ve done the legwork, handpicked and vetted each location, and crafted self-guided itineraries that lead you to many of California’s best destinations, one surprise stop at a time.

Working with travel influencers and by the grace of her own travel experiences, Hendry releases a series of trip highlights and destinations on her website but doesn’t reveal the individual stops until you have purchased the mailed packet ($75) or downloadable PDF ($55).

== Trips departing from Los Angeles explore the most stunning themed destinations. They include:

Joshua Tree Area: Desert Oddities and Curiosities — a 10-hour excursion to unexpected places in the most unforgiving environment, the desert.

Ojai: A Taste of California Sun — an eighthour day to the southern edge of a national forest, showcasing culinary delights native to California.

Santa Barbara: Hot Springs, History & Healing — hiking to hot springs and cultural, culinary and mindful experiences in a 10- hour day.

Santa Ynez Valley: “S” is For Sideways — the beauty and serenity of the region made famous in the cult wine movie, Sideways, in a 10-hour day.

Santa Ynez Valley: A Day in the “Old West” — a glimpse into the past exploring native art in a 10-hour day.

Carlsbad/Encinitas: Sushi, Self-Realization & Sunset Sips — historic beach towns known for fresh seafood, craft beer and wine, and stunning sunsets in a 10-hour day.

Malibu: Where the Sky is More Blue — a quick jaunt up and down the Pacific Coast Highway discovering iconic landmarks, local beaches and fresh catches.

In addition to surprise road trips, Hendry also provides trip planning services and ways to give back through her company’s products.

To offset as many emissions as possible created by your automobile during these excursions, One California Day donates 1% of its annual revenue to 1% For the Planet, a certification given to businesses that meet high-bar commitment in donating 1% to environmental causes. Printable materials are also responsibly sourced. One-dollar donations are also available at checkout to plant trees in your name with One Tree Planted.

“Our mission is to showcase the splendor of California through well-crafted road trip itineraries that highlight unique attractions, support local businesses, encourage responsible and sustainable travel, and ultimately spread joy,” Hendry said.

Digital gift cards are available for the

One California Day surprise guides, and the itineraries make unique corporate gifts. Each itinerary via mail comes with a series of four sealed envelopes that you open as you go to reveal the stops, which could include attractions, restaurants and other local activities; a keepsake; and a curated list of local hotels in the area of your choice. For those who don’t like surprises, the downloadable PDF reveals the entire itinerary instantaneously. Additional costs associated with your trip, reservations and hotel accommodations are not included but can be arranged by One California Day’s trip-planning service.

Trips from San Diego and San Francisco can also be purchased. For more information, visit www.onecaliforniaday.co/

Save the Date for SaMo PRIDE Festival and Events

By Susan Payne

Santa Monica Pier and downtown Santa Monica are ready to celebrate Pride month with a festival on Saturday, June 3, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.

SaMo PRIDE, in collaboration with the city of Santa Monica and Santa Monica Travel and Tourism, is a month focused on events and activities for all ages that celebrate inclusivity and diversity. The festival focuses on art, events for people of all ages and community connection, supports the LGBTQ+ community and pays tribute to love in every color.

Downtown, from the Third Street Promenade through Santa Monica Place to the Santa Monica Pier, is designated as a Pride zone where all ages are welcome to enjoy live musical performances, Priderelated treats, free swag, games, and more.

“Colors of PRIDE” photobooth installations, designed by LGBTQ+ artists, will be placed throughout the SaMo PRIDE Festival with fun, interactive props. Photos from the installations will be assembled to create a photographic mosaic, bringing the three districts together in a rainbow of colors that make up the LGBTQ+ Progress PRIDE flag.

The City’s PRIDE proclamation was signed on May 23, recognizing June as LGBTQ+ Pride Month in Santa Monica and serving as a powerful declaration of the city’s support for the LGBTQ+ community, its commitment to promoting equality and inclusion and its dedication to creating a safe and welcoming environment for all individuals.

Other Santa Monica Pride events include:

Trapeze School NY: LA Pride Show 2023 —  flying trapeze artists soar over the historic Santa Monica Pier and aerialists will dazzle on the hammock, silks and lyra on the deck on Saturday, June 3 from 4-5 p.m.

Made with PRIDE Marketplace — a unique retail pop-up hosted every Friday through Sunday in June at Santa Monica Place on Level One from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. The marketplace showcases over a dozen LGBTQ+ business owners, highlighting their stories and featuring local goods and services made, conceived and curated in Southern California.

SORORITY: WAVES — a celebration of music, theatre and dance at the Annenberg

Community Beach House Sunday, June 4 from 5:30 p.m. to 7 p.m. Tickets can be reserved here.

Rainbow Family Storytime at the Main Library — an inclusive story time for LGBTQ+ families at the Santa Monica Public Library, Tuesday, June 6 from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m.

10 Women Gallery – Pride Celebration

— a celebration of pride at the 10 Women Gallery on Tuesday, June 6 from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. featuring rainbow-themed art, appetizers, sweets and wine.

AIDS/LifeCycle Finish Line Festival

— cyclists, roadies, food trucks, entertainment, celebration and many surprises will be held at the AIDS/LifeCycle Finish Line along the Santa Monica Beach from 11:30 to 12:30 p.m. on Saturday, June 10.

I Gotta Crow PRIDE Comedy Show

— the funniest LGBTQIA+ comedians will stand up and deliver non-stop laughs and unique insights on life, love and randomness in between on Saturday, June 10 from 8 to 9 p.m. at the Cros. Tickets can be purchased here.

Generation Comedy Smackdown with Judy Carter: PRIDE VERSION — a standup comedy event ending in a game show shakedown where the audience asks questions and decides who the best generation is: lesbian Millennials, gay Boomers, or the gay Gen-zers! Tickets can be purchased here.

Queer Prom at the Santa Monica Bay Women’s Club — for LGBTQ+ and allies ages 16-20, Monday, June 12 from 6:30 to 9 p.m. at the Santa Monica Bay Women’s Club.

PRIDE Sunset Swim — hosted at the Annenberg Community Beach House Friday, June 23 from 6-9 p.m. Fabulous floaties and s’mores included!

Sapphic Icons: Poetry Masterclass and Workshop — hosted by Joshua Jennifer Espinoza and Eileen Elizabeth Espinoza at the Annenberg Community Beach House Saturday, June 24 from 2-5 p.m.

Party with a Purpose! Trans Equity Fundraiser — a happy hour dedicated to raising money for trans equity at The Victorian Thursday, June 29 from 5-7 p.m.

For more information on these events and Santa Monica Pride, visit smpride.com/ events.

YOU FEEL THE LOVE?

Grand Marshals, From page 10

film role includes the well-reviewed Fire Island.

Leslie Jordan was one of the most consistently recognizable faces in popular entertainment. His journey towards stardom provided one of the quirkier, impressive, and varied career trajectories of the past few decades. Through it all, Jordan remained constant, relevant and – above all – funny! His ability to take it all in stride kept him moving onward, upward but never straight. Jordan received an Emmy in 2006 for his role in Will & Grace and was most recently seen on Fox’s comedy series “Call Me Kat”. He conquered the international stage and remained an in-demand mainstay as a performer, voice-over artist, fundraiser, spokesperson, out artist, equal rights activist, and all-around Southern Baptist celebutante.

The ACLU Foundation of Southern California (ACLU SoCal) works to defend the civil liberties of all people as enshrined in the U.S. Constitution and the Bill of Rights through litigation, policy advocacy, media advocacy, and organizing. Founded in 1923, the ACLU SoCal is one of the largest affiliates in the country with over 100 staff members across the southland. For 100 years, the ACLU SoCal has fought to expand and protect the civil rights of all people — women, youth, people of

color, LGBTQ people, immigrants and refugees, members of minority religions, disabled people, people experiencing poverty or houselessness, and people who are incarcerated. In 1970, the ACLU SoCal joined CSW in a lawsuit against the Los Angeles Police Commissioner to obtain a parade permit to commemorate the one year anniversary of the Stonewall Riots in New York City. The case was won in California Supreme Court, enabling CSW to hold the first permitted gay parade in the world.

PARADE VILLAGE DETAILS

This year’s LA Pride Parade, on Sunday, June 11, starting at 11 a.m., will feature a special drag performance presented by the ACLU SoCAl and staged by Morgan Michaels to music by 14-time Oscar nominee Diane Warren, and will air live on long-time LA Pride broadcasting partner KABC/ABC7.

The parade will also air nationally on ABC News Live and Hulu, and wherever viewers stream ABC7 including abc7.com and the ABC7LA mobile app. Anchor Ellen Leyva and reporter Christiane Cordero from ABC7 Eyewitness News will co-host the ABC7 broadcast.

Beginning at Sunset Boulevard and Highland Ave, the parade will head north, then east onto Hollywood Boulevard, then south onto Cahuenga Boulevard, ending at Sunset Boulevard and Cahuenga Boulevard.

SPONSORS

This year’s LA Pride Parade partners include our Icon Sponsors: Corona Extra,

Corona Hard Seltzer and SVEDKA Vodka: Hero Sponsors: Toyota Mirai, TikTok and H&M; Activist Sponsors: Delta Air Lines – the Official Airline of LA Pride, The Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority (Metro) - Official Transit Partner of LA Pride, Glamazon, Kim Crawford Wines, L.A. Care Health Plan, Los Angeles Tourism, Nordstrom, Optum, Sony Pictures Entertainment; Advocate Sponsors: AEG, including the LA Kings, LA Galaxy, and AEG Presents, Albertsons/ Vons/Pavilions, Coca-Cola, Grindr, Honda, LADWP, LVMH, Rare Beauty, UCLA Health, Warner Bros. Discovery and Kenvue CARE WITH PRIDEⓇ; Ally Sponsors: Activision Blizzard, the Dream Hollywood hotel, FOX Pride, Moxy/AC Marriott, NBCUniversal, Target, Tiffany & Co., as well as returning television and digital broadcast partner ABC7, and official radio partner iHeartMedia Los Angeles and PRIDE RADIO on the iHeartRadio app. A&CO (www.aubryandco.com) serves as LA Pride’s official partnership agency of record.

Additionally, The Hollywood Partnership, the non-profit organization that oversees the public realm in the Hollywood Business Improvement District (BID), has once again partnered with LA Pride to bring the LA Pride Village back to Hollywood Blvd. LA Pride Village is the official place to be after the LA Pride Parade, with festivities taking place from 12:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., just steps from the

official parade route. When the iconic LA Pride Parade returned home to Hollywood Blvd last year after more than four decades, it prompted the start of new traditions and celebrations in Hollywood, including LA Pride Village, a free and open to the public street festival. The second annual LA Pride Village celebration promises to be even bigger and better, with a new location on Hollywood Blvd, between Vine St. and Gower St., to make room for more booths featuring local vendors and non-profits, an expanded beer garden, delicious food trucks, two performance stages for twice the entertainment, and more comfortable crowd space for dancing. All details can be found here: https://lapridevillage.com/do/ la-pride-2023.

Sponsors of LA Pride Village include Princess Cruises and Royal-bud.com.

TRANSPORTATION

Public transit and ride share services to LA Pride Parade and Village are strongly encouraged. For the Parade, connect to the L.A. Metro B (Red) Line and exit Hollywood/Highland or Hollywood/Vine Station. Metro has many Park & Ride lots servicing the county – parking is just $3.00 per day, payable onsite. If selfdriving to LA Pride Parade and Village, vehicles can access parking and the event site via Vine Street or Gower Street. For additional information about parking and transportation, please visit https:// lapridevillage.com/about/parking-andtransit.

Skin Laundry Laser Focuses On Rejuvenating Skin

Facials don’t have to be invasive.

That’s why Skin Laundry has taken a revolutionary approach to skincare technology, making the practice more accessible and less invasive.

Skin Laundry facials rejuvenate skin cells, boost collagen production and improve clarity for transformative results through the use of advanced medical-grade laser and energybased devices.

“Skincare is healthcare, it shouldn’t cost a lot or hurt to get a facial. The skin is the biggest organ on your body and it’s what you face the world in,” said Mina Chun, Director of Clinical Innovation and Education, BSN, RN. “Much like health and working out, skincare requires a routine in order to maintain clean, bright, and healthy skin.”

Over the last 10 years, Skin Laundry has evolved and expanded to 35 clinics in the United States and nearly 50 worldwide, founded on a mission to make advanced skincare technology accessible, efficacious and less invasive with little to no downtime.

Skin Laundry experts are made up of Registered Nurses, Nurse Practitioners,

Physician Associates overseen by boardcertified dermatologists, to create custom treatment plans that determine what types and how often you should have facials done to achieve your personal skin goals, which can be executed through Skin Laundry memberships. Skin Laundry facials treat most common skin concerns, including acne, Post Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation(PIH), acne scarring, texture, hyperpigmentation, melasma, sun spots, fine lines and wrinkles, rosacea, and more.

“We are laser-focused on facials — we don’t do anything else. “We are committed to bringing you the best results in improving your skin quality and health,” Chun said. “Our treatments are designed to restructure the skin from within. Not only do our treatments target what you want to correct, but they also prevent and improve the quality of your skin over time.” We’re treating and rejuvenating your skin to get rid of damaged cells,” Venturi said. “Damaged cells are what produce hyperpigmentation or clogged or enlarged pores. We strive to balance the production of collagen and elastin so you can see the strongest results. Our protocols and procedures are dictated by our team of medical doctors and skin lasercare experts so that you get the results you want and that process is

safe for all skin tones.

“We designed our clinics to resemble a California beach bungalow, a vast departure from a regular dermatologists’ office. Although the vibes are relaxed and friendly, the service is medical grade,” said Mina Chun, Director of Clinical Innovation and Education, BSN, RN. Three membership levels are available, designed to help you reach your skin goals. During your first visit, Skin Laundry medical professionals will create a customized treatment plan with recommendations of which membership would best suit you.

“All of our treatments are performed by Registered Nurses and Nurse practitioners. During your consultation, we work to understand the current state of your skin and come up with treatment recommendations tailored to your skin goal. a plan based on technology and what your skin can withstand,” Chun said.

For $150 a month, members can receive one Signature Laser facial. The next level is $250 a month, and members receive one Power Signature or Power Signature+ facial or two Signature Laser or two Thermo Fractional facials. The third level, called Rejuvenate, is the most powerful treatment with one Power Duo facial or three Signature Laser or three

Thermo Fractional facials.

“We do this through membership because taking care of one’s skin health is a commitment and journey, and being able to adjust what technology and skincare products we use is important in the process. We want our technology to be accessible,” said Chun. “Through membership we are reinforcing that consistency.”

In addition to facial treatments, Skin Laundry sells offers a medical-grade skincare line that addresses a comprehensive array of skincare needs, balancing the benefits of potent active ingredients and ultimate hydration to support radiant, healthy skin.

“We want to see results and be with you in that journey,” said Chun. “We want to make sure the skin you’re seeing in the mirror is the healthiest.”

Skin Laundry has 18 locations in California including Brentwood and Santa Monica. For more information or to find a location near you visit https://www.skinlaundry.com.

Academy Museum of Motion Pictures Celebrates Pride Month with Exciting Lineup of Events and Programs

Pride Month celebrations at Academy Museum feature parade participation, illuminations, drag tours, and workshops

The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences and Academy Museum of Motion Pictures celebrate Pride Month with an array of programming, events, in-gallery conversations, digital content, family workshops, and merchandise offerings throughout June.

In solidarity with the LGBTQIA+ community in Los Angeles and worldwide, leadership and staff from the Academy and Academy Museum will participate in the Los Angeles Pride Parade on Sunday, June 11, for the second year. Academy marchers will be accompanied by a giant Oscar statue, an LED truck with music and a twosided video screen highlighting clips from LGBTQIA+ films.

For the first time, the Academy Museum will light the glass dome over the Dolby Family Terrace in the rainbow pride flag colors every evening in June.

The Academy Museum will host Drop-In Tours: Stories of PRIDE led by drag artists

Pickle, Landon Cider, Vander Von Odd, and Amber Crane on Fridays through June and a Drop-In Workshop for Teens with drag queen Pickle, who will give a Drag 101 class discussing the influence of drag culture in media and representation in film.

The museum has also partnered with the Bob Baker Marionette Theater to host Drop-In Workshops for Families with marionette shows Saturdays through June. The shows celebrate love, selfacceptance, and community through a musical marionette lineup of proud puppets performing a confection of medleys from LGBTQIA+ icons, queer history, and more. Merchandise supporting the Bob Baker Marionette Theater will also be available at the Academy Museum Store.

The Los Angeles LGBT Center will host a conversation and book signing with Tre’vell Anderson on June 23 about LGBTQIA+ history and portrayal in cinema. The conversation will explore films, identity, and representation throughout the Academy Museum and film history. Tre’vell’s book We See Each Other: A Black, Trans Journey Through TV and Film is available at the Academy Museum Store.

The Academy Museum Store and the Academy have also collaborated on a PRIDE collection , including original

merchandise featuring artwork created by artist Shanée Benjamin . You can also preorder the museum’s catalogue on filmmaker John Waters, the subject of the upcoming exhibition John Waters: Pope of Trash (opening September 17), and purchase Pedro Almodóvar: Installation/Instalación, the accompanying bi-lingual catalogue for the immersive installation created by Almodóvar now on view at the Academy Museum.

A.frame, the Academy’s digital magazine, will celebrate the LGBTQIA+ films and filmmakers you know and love this month. Check out watchlists, exclusive interviews, and more queer movie content on A.frame’s Pride hub.

Special guests include Pickle; Landon Cider winner of Dragula Season 3; Vander Von Odd , winner of Dragula Season 1; Amber Crane; and Tre’vell Anderson.

PRIDE celebrations begin on Friday, June 2 and run through June. Schedule is as follows:

Fri, Jun 2 | 1:15pm | Drop-In Tours: Stories of PRIDE with Pickle

Fri, Jun 2 | 2–8pm | Summer Jam with free museum admission 4–8pm Sat, Jun 3 | 12:30pm | Drop-In Workshops for Families: Puppets and PRIDE!

Fri, Jun 9 | 1:15pm | Drop-In Tours: Stories of PRIDE with Landon Cider Fri, Jun 9 | 7:30pm | Cabaret film screening

Sat, Jun 10 | 12:30pm | Drop-In Workshops for Families: Puppets and PRIDE!

Sun, Jun 11 | 11am | LA Pride Parade

Fri, Jun 16 | 1:15pm | Drop-In Tours: Stories of PRIDE with Vander Von Odd Fri, Jun 16 | 4:30–6:30pm| Drop-In Workshop for Teens: Drag 101 with Pickle

Sat, Jun 17 | 12:30pm | Drop-In Workshops for Families: Puppets and PRIDE!

Fri, Jun 23 | 7:30pm | Gallery Conversation with the Los Angeles LGBT Center

Fri, Jun 30 | 1:30pm | Drop-In Tours:

Stories of PRIDE with Amber Crane For more info go to: www. academymuseum.org/en/Pride2023

Gay Men’s Chorus of Los Angeles to Host 2023

GALA Celebrating LGBTQ+ Community and Honoring Mayor Karen Bass and Disney Concerts

LOS ANGELES (AP) — The Gay Men’s Chorus of Los Angeles (GMCLA) is excited to announce the upcoming 2023 GALA, set to take place on Sunday, June 25 at the prestigious Walt Disney Concert Hall. The event will follow the matinee performance of Disney PRIDE in Concert, a captivating multimedia musical celebration featuring GMCLA’s 200 singers, a 25-piece orchestra, and stunning video projections. With nearly 50 songs from over 20 beloved Disney films and Disney Parks, the event promises to be a delightful experience for all attendees.

One of the highlights of the GALA is GMCLA’s Voice Award, an honor bestowed upon exceptional individuals, companies, and institutions. This year, Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass will be presented with GMCLA’s Civic Voice Award for her enduring commitment to the LGBTQIA community as an advocate and leader. Bass has been a staunch supporter of LGBTQIA rights, including her vote in favor of the Equality Act in 2019, which seeks to eradicate discrimination against

LGBTQIA individuals. Throughout her career, Bass has actively worked to advance civil rights, justice, and equality, and she played a pivotal role in opposing Proposition 8, the ban on same-sex marriage in California. Her dedication to the cause has been recognized at both the state and national levels, solidifying her reputation as a champion for the LGBTQ+ community.

Additionally, Disney Concerts will receive GMCLA’s Artistic Voice Award, honoring their immense contributions to the performing arts world. For years, Disney Concerts has brought the enchantment of Disney’s music and artistry to stages and concert halls around the globe. Their collaboration with the LGBTQIA community of choruses has been groundbreaking, as they chose to embark on their choral journey with these groups. GMCLA is thrilled to perform Disney PRIDE in Concert at the GALA dinner, creating a momentous occasion to celebrate Disney’s 100th anniversary and Pride Month.

The GALA will feature a glamorous

reception and dinner event, hosted by television host and journalist Melvin Robert, known for his role as the senior correspondent on “Extra” and the anchor of Fox’s “Good Day L.A.” Guests will have the opportunity to participate in a silent and live auction, with proceeds going towards GMCLA’s Alive Music Project in schools and various free public concert events.

The evening will commence with gala attendees walking the signature pink carpet, followed by the silent auction and an open bar and hors d’oeuvres reception. The Frank Gehry-designed event space at Walt Disney Concert Hall will serve as the backdrop for this spectacular affair. A three-course dinner, prepared by The Music Center’s exclusive catering arm, Hope & Grand Events, will be served at 6:30 p.m. The highlight of the night will be the presentation of the Voice Awards, celebrating the achievements of Disney Concerts and Mayor Karen Bass.

The 2023 GALA has garnered support from various sponsors, including Amazon, AT&T,

Disney

The Perenchio Foundation also provides significant sponsorship for GMCLA’s entire season. Individual tickets for the GALA are available for $750 and $1,250, while table sponsorships can be purchased for 10 guests at $7,500, $12,500, and $25,000.

To secure gala tickets or inquire about table sponsorships, interested parties can visit www. GMCLA.org/gala or contact Brian Tillis at brian@GMCLA.org or 424.453.3990.

Meeting Mental Health Needs: Mind MD Now Accepts Variety of Insurance Plans

By Susan Payne

Across the United States, wait time for mental health care appointments can take months, but that’s an issue that Mind MD in Los Angeles is looking to solve locally with its urgent outpatient services.

Launched over a year ago, Mind MD is a mental health and addiction urgent care center located at 8500 Wilshire Boulevard in Beverly Hills serving the surrounding areas of Culver City, West Hollywood, Hollywood, Santa Monica and Venice.

Mind MD offers outpatient services for residents in Los Angeles, giving people access to urgent mental health and transitional services with its sooner-rather-than-later approach to medical care.

After careful and conscientious evaluation, the Mind MD wellness team develops an individualized care plan to match patient needs including outpatient detox, crisis care, medication management or psychotherapy and options for group, family, individual and couple therapy.

“Mental health is urgent until you have a steadier plan and support in place. The important part is having access to that care,” said Mind MD chief executive officer Ari Hirt. If someone is discharging or finishing one level of care in a program or hospital, there’s usually a gap period, and that’s where Mind MD can fill in.

“Access, support and case management is what we provide,” Hirt said.

Experienced mental health professional and crisis responders at Mind MD are prepared to help patients upon arrival and provide comprehensive psychiatric evaluations or medication management for each new client. Although walk-in services are available, patients who make an appointment can be seen within days, typically. Some patients use these transitional services until their providers or next level of care providers, sometimes months out, are available.

“Make that first appointment with us and in a six-week period, we’ll make sure they are stable and safe, and initiate treatment for when your provider has you scheduled,” Hirt said.

Mind MD does not provide long-term services but is careful when creating shortterm treatment plans.

“If someone has deep trauma from childhood, for example, we won’t start therapy and then in two or three months refer them to another provider,” said Hirt. “There’s no steadfast rule, everything is case-by-case.”

Because Mind MD is disciplined to the gap period, the medical office is able to collaborate with community constituents without competitiveness.

“We’re trying to make everything work for everyone. If a program discharged someone, they can be referred to Mind MD and get the immediate support they need for the next stage of care,” Hirt said.

Mind MD offers telehealth services, hybridmodel services and in-person services.

“We encourage first appointments to be inperson, and then people transition to telehealth depending on the case,” Hirt said. “We take pride in that we can offer both solutions, that’s really important to us.”

As of October, the health center is now able to accept a variety of insurance including Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield, Magellan Blue Shiel, Aetna, Optum United Health Group and Medicare.

“If someone doesn’t have insurance, we priced our cash prices for initial evaluations very reasonable,” Hirt said. “Our goal is to make mental health care as accessible

as possible in terms of appointments and affordability.”

Recently, Mind MD has started offering ketamine infusions for treatment-resistant forms of depression and anxiety.

Mind MD is working toward breaking the stigma of mental health with its central location, street-level welcoming office space. For more information on the wellness center, visit https://www.mindmdwellness.com/ or call 424-307-9504 to make an appointment. For individuals going through crisis or danger, find the closest emergency department near you, call 9-1-1 or call the suicide and crisis lifeline at 9-8-8.

Concerts, Royal Bank of Canada, U.S. Bank, the Vyas Family, Greg Weaver & Haig Youredjian, and Richard & Carol Weaver.

Culver City Gears Up for an Exciting LGBTQ+ Pride Ride & Rally Celebration

are set to take place on Saturday, June 3rd, offering participants the opportunity to come together as a community.

Culver City is getting ready to celebrate LGBTQ+ Pride with an electrifying lineup of events that promise an unforgettable experience. The Pride Ride and Pride Rally

The Pride Ride, happening from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m., will kick off at Syd Kronenthal Park. This ride will take participants through a scenic 6-mile route across Culver City neighborhoods. Whether you scoot, skate, or cycle, bring your friends, family, and neighbors as you pedal towards a brighter

future. Best of all, participation is absolutely free, but an RSVP is required to secure your spot. To RSVP, go here. But what if you don’t have wheels? Fret not! The organizers have partnered with Bird and Metro Bike to ensure everyone can join in on the ride. Bird is offering free e-scooters,

while Metro Bike provides 30 minutes of free ride time, with only $1.75 charged for every additional 30 minutes. Simply meet at Syd Kronenthal Park at 4:00 p.m. to claim your ride and be part of this exciting event.

Following the Pride Ride, the festivities continue with the Pride Rally on Main Street in Downtown Culver City from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. Prepare for a block party like no other, filled with delectable food, captivating performances, and an array of engaging activities. The lineup includes drag queens and kings, cool speakers, thrilling catwalk contests, face painting, raffles, delicious food, refreshing drinks, and an opportunity to dance your heart out. This vibrant celebration is open to all, and no RSVP is required to attend.

Culver City Pride Ride and Pride Rally serve as a testament to the community’s commitment to inclusivity, acceptance, and celebration of diversity. Come join the festivities, meet new friends, and create lasting memories while embracing the true spirit of LGBTQ+ Pride. For more information, you can visit the Culver Pride website.

Culver City Pride has announced these helpful tips to help your celebration go more smoothly:

TIPS FOR A SMOOTH PRIDE RIDE DAY!

Here are a few tips to help make the day run smoothly for you and your fellow pride riders.

1. Register early (no time like now) at culvercitypride.org/#ride to speed up the check-in process on the day of.

2. Arrive early. The check-in line can get pretty long. We recommend arriving at 3:30 PM to make sure you get checked in before the crowds show up.

3. Check your bike(s) this week to make sure it’s all set. Hit up a local bike shop for a tune-up if needed.

4. Need minor bike adjustments? Arrive by 3:30 for a quick tune-up by Walk n Rollers before you get on the road.

Photo: Facebook

Kingsley

-resident John H.

Stonewall Riots: A Historic Catalyst for Pride Month

As Pride Month kicks off, it is essential to reflect on the significant event that sparked the modern LGBTQ+ rights movement: the Stonewall Riots. The events of June 1969, at the Stonewall Inn in New York City, marked a turning point in the fight for LGBTQ+ rights and became a symbol of resilience, activism, and pride. Understanding the history of the Stonewall Riots is crucial to appreciating the significance of Pride Month and its continued importance today.

Prior to the Stonewall Riots, LGBTQ+ individuals faced widespread discrimination, persecution, and social marginalization. Homosexuality was considered illegal in most parts of the United States, and raids on gay bars were common. However, the Stonewall Inn, a popular gathering place for LGBTQ+ people, became the backdrop for a defining moment in the struggle for equality.

In the early hours of June 28, 1969, a routine police raid at the Stonewall Inn ignited a spontaneous uprising. The patrons of the bar, tired of enduring constant harassment and oppression, decided to resist. The ensuing protests, which lasted for several days, brought together a diverse range of individuals from the LGBTQ+ community and allies.

Marsha P. Johnson, a Black transgender woman, and Sylvia Rivera, a transgender activist, were among the key figures leading the resistance. Their courageous actions and the collective defiance demonstrated during the riots helped galvanize the LGBTQ+ community, sparking a wave of activism across the country.

The Stonewall Riots ignited a flame of empowerment and solidarity that was previously unseen. They marked a shift in the perception and treatment of LGBTQ+ individuals, as the community refused to be silenced any longer. The riots inspired the formation of numerous LGBTQ+ advocacy organizations, such as the Gay Liberation Front and the Gay Activists Alliance, which fought for equal rights and an end to discrimination.

The events at Stonewall served as a catalyst for Pride parades and demonstrations held worldwide. These events became an annual celebration of LGBTQ+ identity, visibility, and progress. Today, Pride Month is an opportunity to honor the bravery of those who fought for LGBTQ+ rights, remember the struggles they faced, and acknowledge the ongoing work needed to achieve full equality.

Pride Month has evolved into a time to recognize and celebrate the diverse contributions of the LGBTQ+ community to society. It serves as a reminder of the progress made since the Stonewall Riots, as well as the challenges that still exist. It is a month of advocacy, education, and support for LGBTQ+ individuals and their rights, as well as an opportunity for allies to show solidarity and help create a more inclusive world.

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The importance of the Stonewall Riots to Pride Month cannot be overstated. They serve as a reminder of the power of collective action, the resilience of marginalized communities, and the ongoing fight for justice and equality. The legacy of the Stonewall Riots lives on in the continued struggle for LGBTQ+ rights, and Pride Month stands as a testament to the progress made and the work yet to be done. As we celebrate Pride Month, let us remember the bravery of those who fought at Stonewall and honor their legacy by continuing to advocate for a world where every individual is free to be their authentic self, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity.

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