SFGN 5/18/23 V14iss20

MEAN GIRL

WHY ARE YOU SO OBSESSED WITH US?

OUR FUND FOUNDATION SUPPORTS NORM KENT JOURNALISM FUND

Our Fund Foundation launched the Norm Kent LGBTQ Newsmaker Fund in the longtime attorney’s memory.

“It is especially meaningful for The Our Fund Foundation to hold the Norm Kent LGBTQ Newsmaker Fund because Norm’s values and hopes for South Florida align with ours. He was a force for good in our region, and we hope to follow in his path.”

Kent was the publisher of South Florida Gay News and before that the Express Gay News in the early 2000s. He was a passionate defender of the First Amendment.

Kent died April 13. He was 73. Here’s an excerpt from the SFGN obituary.

In 1999, Kent took on a new title: newspaper publisher. He launched the Express Gay News, which covered all aspects of queer life in South Florida.

Kent sold the paper four years later to Window Media, a national LGBT media group that renamed it the South Florida Blade. Window Media went bankrupt in November 2009 and quickly shut down the Blade. Most of the staff of the Blade reorganized and launched the Florida Agenda, which shut down in 2016.

In January of 2010 Kent launched a new newspaper and website called South Florida Gay News, along with a new business partner Piero Guidugli, who stayed with the company until 2020.

Celebrating 400 issues of SFGN in 2018, Kent and Guidugli highlighted a few of their most compelling stories, including:

– A five-year long program of entrapment by two West Palm Beach policemen who had entrapped more than 300 men.

– Hollywood police fired officer Mikey Verdugo in 2010 after the department learned he had appeared in a 15-minute gay porn

– The 2010 firing of licensed practical nurse Ray Fetcho AKA drag queen Tiny Tina, when it came out that 35 years earlier Fetcho had been charged with a lewd act for hosting a wet jockey shorts contest at the old Copa nightclub in Fort Lauderdale. (Fetcho died at 68 of cancer and diabetes in 2015.)

In 2016, Kent wrote in a publisher’s column about the last of the big gay bar raids in Broward County, when in 1991 then-Sheriff Nick Navarro created a media spectacle arresting men at the Copa and at Club 21 in Hallandale Beach.

“Sheriff Navarro orchestrated the raid as if he were hosting a Hollywood opening,” Kent wrote. “As the news report by Steve Rothaus indicates, the Sheriff turned the

raid into a media event, placing the entire LGBT community in a false light. Navarro arrived on the scene, believe it or not, in a helicopter, accompanied by his wife, dressed in an evening gown. Reporters were shocked by the crass celebration, amazingly accompanied by foreign Russian dignitaries to show off for.”

Kent said he never regretted publishing a story, even if it got him into hot water with local power figures, including activists and elected officials.

“It’s the newspaper. It’s what editorial cartoons are all about,” he said. “It’s not for the politician to be thin skinned. It’s for the politician to go naked before the canon and accept the fact that he, too, can be criticized no matter how good they think they

@SFGN

May 18, 2023 • Volume 14 • Issue 20 2520 N. Dixie Highway • Wilton Manors, FL 33305 Phone: 954-530-4970 Fax: 954-530-7943

Publisher/Editor • Jason Parsley Jason.Parsley@sfgn.com

Associate Publisher • Justin Wyse Justin@sfgn.com

Editorial

Assistant to the Editor • Kimberly Swan Webmaster@sfgn.com

Social Media Director • Christiana Lilly

Graphic Designers • Julie Palmer Kyle Willis • Craig Tuggle Design Consultant • Brendon Lies Artwork@sfgn.com

Arts/Entertainment Editor • J.W. Arnold JW@prdconline.com

Food/Travel Editor • Rick Karlin Community Editor • John Hayden john.jmhcreative@gmail.com

Senior Photographer • J.R. Davis JRDavis12000@hotmail.com

Senior Feature Columnists

Brian McNaught • Jesse Monteagudo Special to SFGN Steve Rothaus

Correspondents

John McDonald • Sean Conklin • Deon Jefferson

David-Elijah Nahmod • Aurora Dominguez

Denise Royal • Austen Erblat • Kennedy McKinney

Mary Rasura • Christian Walden • Christopher Flores

Contributing Columnists

Pier Angelo • Terri Schlichenmeyer Gregg Shapiro • Dana Rudolph

Associate Photographers Carina Mask • Steven Shires Sales & Marketing For ad placement in SFGN, contact 954-530-4970

Director Justin Wyse Justin@sfgn.com

Senior Advertising Associate Edwin Neimann Edwin@sfgn.com

Distribution Services

Richie Wilson & Johnathan Rey National Advertising Rivendell Media 212-242-6863 sales@rivendellmedia.com

Accounting Services by CG Bookkeeping Printing by Stuart Web Inc.

Co-Founders Norm Kent • Pier Angelo

SOUTH FLORIDA GAY NEWS.COM, INC.

FOUNDED, DECEMBER, 2009 BY PIER GUIDUGLI AND NORM KENT

online, including articles used in conjunction with the AP, is protected under federal copyright and intellectual property laws, and is jealously guarded by the newspaper. Nothing published may be reprinted in whole or part without getting written consent from the Publisher, Jason Parsley at Jason.Parsley@SFGN.com. SFGN is owned by Norm Kent and represented legally by Russell Cormican. SFGN, as a private corporation, reserves the right to enforce its own standards regarding the suitability of advertising copy, illustrations and photographs. Copyright © 2023 South Florida Gay News.com, Inc.

that appears in print

SFGN Staff

SFGN co-founder Norm Kent. Courtesy photo. scene 14 years earlier. (Verdugo now owns Bodytek Fitness in Davie and Wilton Manors.)

Photo by J.R. Davis

Tony Corrente, president, and Edward Otto Zielke, director of marketing and sponsorship of the Gay Men's Chorus of South Florida, at Hunters for the GMCSF and Bears SF Sing-Along.

IML SENDOFF PARTY FOR MR. RAMROD MAY 21

John Hayden

"I’m ready for all of it!” You can hear the excitement in his voice. Jacob James is Mr. Ramrod 2023 and he is ready for the most important week of his reign: representing the Ramrod at International Mr. Leather (IML) in Chicago.

But before he goes, James is holding a massive sendoff party to raise some money and feel the love from his friends inside and outside of the leather community. This Sunday, May 21, from 9 p.m. to midnight, Ramrod is hosting his IML sendoff party with an Enforced Dress Code Night.

Boots, plus two pieces of leather, or fetish wear are required to enter the back patio area for Enforced Dress Code. A raffle and silent auction will be inside the bar in the pool room. Items include gift baskets from places like Apt 9F, Leatherwerks, Pride Factory, Alibi, and more.

Support from inside the leather community is a given, it’s the support he’s receiving from

Welcoming

the broader community that truly movies him.

“It’s so overwhelming,” he said. “I cannot believe the support I have as a South Florida leather leader. It’s been so heartwarming.”

James has competed in IML before and is originally from Chicago, so he has an inside track on many of the contestants. But he says he’s not competing against them, he’s only competing against himself.

“I’m going to have a fun time, bond and create friendships that are unbreakable with the other 55 men competing with me.”

DOLPHIN DEMS TO PARTY AND RALLY MAY 20

John Hayden

Democrats have taken it on the chin at the ballot box and LGBT has suffered at everyturn as a result. Now the Dolphin Democrats, South Florida’s LGBT Democratic club, is picking itself up, wiping away the sludge dumped on them by the GOP supermajority in Tallahassee, and preparing for the next fights.

They’re holding their annual gala May 20 at the Westin in Fort Lauderdale. The event begins with a cocktail reception at 6 p.m. followed by dinner and the program at 7 p.m., with the dress being smart business or cocktail attire.

The evening’s theme is Stronger Together. Dolphin Dems president, Todd Delmay, told SFGN that despite tough times, it’s important

for the community to come together.

“There are those that might say that a gala is not how we should be reacting to the horrors that have been inflicted on us in Tallahassee this session. But this moment is temporary, and the fever-pitched attacks on us have come and gone before, so why would we let them ruin our annual traditions too? Each time we have gone through waves of attacks, we have come out the other side stronger than ever.”

Goals for the next 18 months and the 2024 general election include supporting candidates, fundraising, and building coalitions. Clawing back seats in the state legislature and ending the GOP supermajority is a key goal, as well as attempting to unseat first term Sen. Rick Scott.

As new president of Dolphin Dems, Delmay’s job is to focus on members and the party.

“As Democrats, we've been so busy putting out fires and fighting for our lives and rights.

As the largest Democratic Caucus in Broward, and the largest LGBTQ+ Caucus affiliate in the state, we have a responsibility to be leaders.”

- Todd Delmay

The organization will honor several community activists, including Carlos Guillermo-Smith, who was targeted by Gov. Ron DeSantis and lost his seat last year, and Ashley and Morgan Mayfaire. Gifted singer Anthony Nunziata will provide musical entertainment.

Jacob James. Photo via Facebook.

Todd Delmay, president of the Dolphin Dems. Photo via Facebook.

“EACH TIME WE HAVE GONE THROUGH WAVES OF ATTACKS, WE HAVE COME OUT THE OTHER SIDE STRONGER THAN EVER.”

DOLPHIN DEMS PRESIDENT

Tickets are $225 for the cocktail reception and dinner by visiting dolphindems.org.

EXPLORING LGBT NEWS EVENTS ACROSS THE GLOBE

AUSTRALIA RUSSIA

FOOTBALL PLAYERS MAY BE ALLOWED TO WEAR RAINBOW ARMBANDS

Players for Football Australia may be allowed to wear rainbow armbands at the Women’s World Cup.

James Johnson, the chief executive of Football Australia, told the Observer that there had been “meaningful dialogue” between the hosts and football’s governing body. Part of the discussions include a plan to allow players to wear armbands to represent certain issues.

“We’re in the middle of that process and we’re pretty confident and optimistic that we’ll end up in a good place: a place where players have the ability to express themselves in certain areas, which keeps the players happy, it keeps the host nation happy and also Fifa happy as well. So I do think there’ll be a resolution ahead of the Women’s World Cup.”

When asked directly if Johnson expects

to see players wearing rainbow armbands at the tournament, he said he thinks there will be.

UNITED KINGDOM

COUNTRY FINES GOOGLE OVER ‘LGBT PROPAGANDA’ AND ‘FALSE INFORMATION’

A Russian court fined Alphabet’s Google three million roubles for failing to delete YouTube videos that, they said, promoted “LGBT propaganda” and “false information” about Russia’s military campaign.

Over the last year, dozens of fines have been filed from Moscow against Western tech companies as part of a mission to control what Russian internet users see online.

Under a new law, Russia classifies any action or the spreading of any information that is considered an attempt to promote homosexuality in public, online, or in films, books or advertising, as “LGBT propaganda” and can result in a heavy fine.

It is not clear if Google plans on paying or resisting the order.

Now, a formal complaint has been filed over the behavior of the Metropolitan Police Officers for their behavior. A councilor for Lewisham said police were slow to intervene during the protest.

“I observed a number of concerning things during the policing of the protest,” said the councilor who preferred to remain anonymous. “TPUK protesters were allowed to walk up to people outside the pub and film them. Later, several officers, including those from territorial support group [TSG] units, were seen

pushing crowds back aggressively and we’ve had reports of serious injuries, including a cracked rib,” they said.

According to the Observer, Damien Egan, the mayor of Lewisham, has also raised concerns over their policing tactics

Police in London are being accused of “siding” with a right-wing group during a violent protest organized by Turning Point UK about a drag act’s performance at a south London pub.

COUNCILS CALL OFF DRAG STORYTIME IN VICTORIA AFTER FAR-RIGHT THREATS

Photo via Leah Williamson, Facebook.

BY KENNEDY MCKINNEY

THE AROUNDWORLD

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LOCATIONS IN SOUTH FLORIDA

FORT LAUDERDALE

315 SE 14th St. Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33316 (754) 701-6920

PLANTATION

4101 NW 3rd Court, # 9 Plantation, Fl 33317 (754) 701-6911

LAKE WORTH

201 N Dixie Hwy. Lake Worth, FL 33460 (561) 867-9991

SOUTH BEACH

427 Washington Ave. Miami Beach, FL 33139 (305) 514-0813

MIAMI GARDENS

18360 NW 47th Ave. Miami, FL 33055 (786) 800-5631

OAKLAND PARK

1421 E. Oakland Park Blvd. #101 Oakland Park, FL 33334 (941) 366-0134

DR. MICHAEL SENSION

DR. AMY WECKER

DRAG QUEENS WILL BE AT STONEWALL FEST

DRAG PERFORMANCES MAY NOT BE

John Hayden

In the week since Wilton Manors’ city commission voted unanimously to amend the permit for the Stonewall Pride Parade & Street Festival, people on both sides of the issue on whether or not to comply with drag laws have lashed out.

The amendment ensures event producers follow all laws, including ones passed since the permit was issued in February. The practical effect is to comply with the new law that appears to classify all live drag entertainment, regardless of content, as adult entertainment, and prevent drag performances on outdoor stages that will be set up all along Wilton Drive for the June 17 party.

It appears people in drag will be allowed into the event and to participate in the parade. However, performing in the parade or on any exterior stage is likely to be prohibited due to being labeled adult entertainment. Producers of the event haven’t finalized standards for admission and participation, but have said there will be a “dress code” applying to all participants, vendors, attendees, and performers.

BETRAYAL & BACKLASH

Many in the community are livid that the city and event producers will acquiesce to the law for now under the theory that it’s better to live to fight another day. Scott Galvin, the executive director of Safe Schools South Florida, posted on social media, “I’ve been saying for months that raids of gay bars are near. We need our club owners to stand with us.”

Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis has said the law is needed to protect children and recognize parental rights. Kevin Quinlan, a concerned resident, pointed out this actually infringes on a parent’s rights.

“Families live in the community and love bringing their kids to Wilton Manors. It’s the parents’ responsibility, not the government, to decide what their children are introduced to seeing and viewing.”

Many are calling for outright defiance. But officials and organizers say to do that would win the day but not the fight. Open violation could lead to the governor exercising his authority to remove elected officials and city employees.

Wilton Manors Commissioner Chris

Caputo reluctantly voted for the amendment, saying it’s unfair for city employees to get caught up in politics

“While it’s one thing for an elected official like myself to be removed from office, it’s not fair to ask our city staff to potentially lose their job and ability to get hired by any other Florida municipality,” he said. “The addition of the statement releases liability from city staff in the event a violation occurs and protects their livelihood and their families. If the Governor has someone removed for breaking a law, we can’t ‘block’ that. You’ve seen he has done that already. While it’s conceivable a lawsuit could be filed, it will take years to get through the courts, and the person would be without a job. I can’t ask a city employee to take that risk.”

While it is true that the new law doesn’t change any entertainment plans, that’s mainly because entertainment hasn’t been booked or announced. In previous years, drag entertainment has been a main feature of the main stage and other performance venues.

Caputo says he intends to show up at Stonewall in drag and encourages others to follow suit. There is less than a month until the event and plans, activities, and rules are still forming and could change.

SFGN will continue to follow all the developments and talk with planners, officials, and the entertainers who are affected by the hateful bill coming from the increasingly fascist GOP party in Florida.

Photo by JR Davis.

SUNSERVE FOCUSES ON MENTAL HEALTH WITH ‘WHOLE PERSON HEALTH’ EVENT

John Hayden

"Smile, you’ll feel better.”

“It is what it is.”

And worst of all: “Don’t worry, be happy.”

The world is filled with platitudes that, at best, gloss over and minimize the real mental health struggles millions deal with every day. The problem is magnified for LGBT people, who also face state sponsored attacks from the legislature to school boards

While SunServe helps many segments of the community, their focus on mental health is second to none in South Florida. As part of Mental Health Awareness Month, they are hosting Whole Person Health: Strengthening Your Inner Core, on May 25 at Hagen Park Community Center at 6:30 p.m.

“The emotional inner core of a human is the deepest, most fundamental essence of who they are,” SunServe’s Director of Communications John Marler said. “It is composed of their feelings, emotions, desires, hopes, fears, and values. It is the part of a person that determines how they think, feel,

behave, and interact with others in the world.”

Mental health is hard for people to view as a “real” illness because, unlike a broken bone or cancer, outwardly visible symptoms are uncommon. Because of that, it’s easy for people to ignore their own problems.

The event will help people develop a better understanding of self-care and why it’s important, as well as techniques to incorporate it into their daily lives. Benefits can include better mental health, lower stress, and feel better overall. Mental health professionals will also be on hand to answer individual questions.

FEDS DROP REMAINING CHARGES AGAINST ANDREW GILLUM

The political persecution of Andrew Gillum is over.

Federal prosecutors dropped the remaining charges against the ex-Tallahassee mayor, a week after a jury acquitted him of lying to the FBI.

In a tweet on May 15, Gillum thanked God while sharing the government’s decision to dismiss corruption charges against him and his mentor, Sharon Lettman-Hicks.

Friends and supporters called it justice delayed and painful.

“No doubt this ‘investigation’ and its well-timed leaks cost @AndrewGillum the election. Worse, it cost him and his family so much more personally,” tweeted veteran Florida political operative Kevin Cate, who ran Nikki Fried’s 2022 gubernatorial campaign for the Democratic nomination.

Gillum, campaigning to become Florida’s first Black governor, came oh so close to defeating Ron DeSantis in the 2018 election. The former CNN analyst was the target of a federal probe into improper use of campaign

funds, which included a ticket to the Broadway hit musical, Hamilton.

In the election’s aftermath, Gillum revealed his personal struggles with alcohol and depression and came out as bisexual. A photo surfaced, allegedly circulated by gay alt-right blogger Jacob Engels, purported to be Gillum passed out in a Miami Beach hotel room.

Gillum denied using drugs on the night in question, but in an interview said he was “suffering in silence” with his addictions while “perfecting what it meant to wear the mask.”

Photo via Adobe.

NEWS STATE

John McDonald

Photo via Andrew Gillum, Facebook.

GAZETTE

WILTON MANORS

HUNT SLONEM’S ‘THUNDERBUNNY’ LANDS IN WILTON MANORS

By Christiana Lilly

Standing at nearly 14 feet tall and covered with 6,500 pieces of bright blue glass, a new Instagrammable moment has made its way to the Island City.

Hunt Slonem’s “Thunderbunny” is on loan from New River Fine Art in Fort Lauderdale and will reside at Justin Flippen Park for the next year.

“This sculpture, born from an early mosaic piece I created for a West Palm Beach building, has been years in the making, with its Floridian origins lending it a profound connection,” Slonem said in a statement. “I’m thrilled by the perfect fit my work finds in Florida, and the sheer ecstasy I feel knowing it will grace Wilton Manors in monumental scale.”

Lisa Burgess, president and founder of New River Fine Art, explained that “Thunderbunny” first made its way down to South Florida for the Palm Beach Modern + Contemporary art fair in 2022. When she discovered that it wasn’t immediately needed by the artist until Spring 2024, she asked Slonem if he would agree to loan it to Wilton Manors. The world renowned artist enthusiastically agreed, and after the OK from the Wilton Manors City Commission, New River Fine Art and Art Gallery 21 helped put up funds to support the display.

“I was very excited because I couldn’t think

of a better place for it to go,” Burgess said.

She explained that the main thoroughfare at Five Points would give “Thunderbunny” great visibility, and she was also impressed with the city’s efforts to expand its public art. Around town, one can partake in the Sculpture Walk, including melting popsicles, oversized orange slices, candy hearts, and countless other pieces to enjoy.

Slonem is an American artist known for his paintings of butterflies, bunnies and tropical birds; his work has been on display in more than 250 museum exhibitions as well as 60 permanent collections, including the lauded Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City.

“I just smile every time I look at it,” Burgess said of Thunderbunny. “We want it to bring culture, happiness and joy to anybody who sees it. That’s one of the purposes of public art.”

And with a concrete pad now in place at the park, she hopes it opens opportunities for more public art to be on display there.

An official unveiling ceremony for “Thunderbunny” is planned for the future; a date has not yet been announced. In the meantime, visitors are encouraged to take a photo with “Thunderbunny” and include the hashtag #thunderbunnyWiltonManors when sharing on social media.

Photo by Carina Mask.

WILTON MANORS DISCUSSES GROWING SAFETY CONCERNS

By John Hayden

With state sanctioned oppression and rising vigilante threats, the definition of what constitutes safety and a safe environment is in flux for the LGBT community.

On May 8, HotSpots! held HotTopics!: Town Hall What Is Safety? at Island City

Rogers asked if the survey collected data such as racial demographics. Blocker said it did not, but acknowledged it was a good idea and would consider it when the survey goes out again in this autumn.

Stage.

Jasmine Rogers and Jameer Baptiste moderated the panel of community servants and activists. They include Wilton Manors Commissioner Chris Caputo, Assistant Police Chief Darren Broadsky, Police Chief Gary Blocker, Carvelle Estriplet, a trans woman and business owner, World AIDS Museum Executive Director Terry Dyer, and Equality Florida field manager Mary EakinsDurand.

All shared their experiences interacting in and around Greater Wilton Manors. Each had a unique perspective and story to share. Dyer talked about being attacked while walking home from The Drive. The incident left him shaken.

The packed house listened to each story

and statistic, then submitted their questions in written form.

Baptiste and Rogers kept the forum moving, while also stopping at key points to ask follow up questions. At one point, Chief Blocker was discussing the quality-of-life survey the city puts out to gauge feelings about WMPD.

Rogers asked if the survey collected data such as racial demographics. Blocker said it did not, but acknowledged it was a good idea and would consider it when the survey goes out again in this autumn.

After several topics, action points were noted and benchmarks for success were discussed.

You can watch the entire forum online at hotspotsmagazine.com.

May 18, 2023 • Volume 10 • Issue 10

2520 N. Dixie Highway • Wilton Manors, FL 33305

Phone: 954-530-4970 Fax: 954-530-7943

Publisher/Editor • Jason Parsley jason.parsley@sfgn.com

Associate Publisher•Justin Wyse justin.wyse@sfgn.com

Assistant to the Editor • Kimberly Swan webmaster@sfgn.com

Editorial Graphic Designers

Julie Palmer•Kyle Willis•Craig Tuggle artwork@sfgn.com

Oakland Park Editor • Christiana Lilly Wilton Manors Editor •John Hayden john.jmhcreative@gmail.com

Correspondents

Sal Torre • James Oaksun • John McDonald

Staff Photographers J.R. Davis • Carina Mask • Steven Shires

Sales & Marketing

For ad placement in the Wilton Manors Gazette, contact 954-530-4970

Advertising Sales Associate • Edwin Neimann edwin.neimann@sfgn.com

Co-founders• Norm Kent & Piero Guidugli

Accounting Services by CG Bookkeeping Associated Press

South Florida Gay News is published weekly. The opinions expressed in columns, stories, and letters to the editor do not represent the opinions of SFGN, or the Publisher. You should not presume the sexual orientation of individuals based on their names or pictorial representations. Furthermore the word “gay” in SFGN should be interpreted to be inclusive of the entire LGBT community. All of the material/columns that appears in print and online, including articles used in conjunction with the AP, is protected under federal copyright and intellectual property laws, and is jealously guarded by the newspaper. Nothing published may be reprinted in whole or part without getting written consent from the Publisher, at his law office, at Norm@NormKent.com. SFGN, as a private corporation, reserves the right to enforce its own standards regarding the suitability of advertising copy, illustrations and photographs. nlgja logo 6

Copyright © 2023 South Florida Gay News.com, Inc.

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Wilton Drive.

Photo by Carina Mask.

WILTON MANORS WRESTLES WITH BUNNY BOOM

By John Hayden

Rabbit sightings in Jenada Isle are becoming more frequent by the day. It’s believed the recent bunny boom began with a few domesticated rabbits being abandoned or released a couple of months ago. As City Manager Leigh Ann Henderson said, “Bunnies are gonna do what bunnies do,” and they have.

Estimates in early May show about 60 are roaming the neighborhood and the problem is, literally, growing every day. City commissioners have discussed the issue at a couple of meetings. Since initial cost projections are low enough to come from discretionary spending without needing specific allocation from the commission, responsibility for dealing with the problem was delegated to Henderson.

It leaves her in a no-win situation.

Unlike pythons or iguanas (which are deemed “wild”), the rabbits are considered domesticated and can’t be hunted. A trapping

firm is being brought in to humanely trap them. But since it’s highly unlikely homes will be able to be found for all the rabbits, there’s a good chance some will need to be euthanized.

Residents want the problem eliminated, but shrink at the thought of them being killed.

A Facebook page dedicated to Jenada Isle posted, “Save the Bunnies! These domesticated bunnies deserve the chance for a happy life as a companion pet, instead of being dumped on the street, trapped and killed. Please help the Bunnies in any way you can.” It went on to give links to animal rescue and adoption information. There are also several links to videos of the Jenada Isle Bunnies being adorable.

Nearby communities are worried that they won’t remain Jenada Isle Bunnies. They reproduce so rapidly it’s a sure thing that the population will soon spread beyond the

so. This article reflects the latest information possible from social media and discussions at

Photo by Carina Mask.

picturesque enclave. SFGN and Henderson both tried to connect several times but were unable to do

City Commission.

COMMISSIONER: DRAG QUEENS ALLOWED AT STONEWALL PRIDE

NEW OWNERS AT COURTYARD CAFÉ

By John Hayden

It has been a busy week clarifying the facts about Stonewall and drag. I understand, in retrospect, how the recent amendment was interpreted by members of our community as a ban on drag. I hope this letter clearly states my position and the facts.

WMEG, the event producer, handles the selection of entertainment and performances. Let me be clear: drag queens are allowed at Stonewall and we have not told WMEG that drag queens are prohibited from being a part of the event. We’ve not asked WMEG to set an age requirement for entry, either. We’re an inclusive city, and all are welcome at our cultural celebration.

At the recent commission meeting, I personally called for people to show up in drag and stated that I planned to be there in drag. To that end, I do not personally believe that the type of drag performances we’ve come to expect at Stonewall Pride are illegal. I believe our cultural expression of drag is inherently artistic and politically valuable. Look for me at Stonewall: I will be in the parade in drag as “Lady Vote” and am working hard on a performance that I don’t believe is illegal. The governor may not agree with me, but that’s a protracted legal battle I’m comfortable taking on for myself.

On the other hand, I am not comfortable with city employees losing their jobs at the whim of the Governor. The same law prohibits city employees from issuing a permit where a prohibited performance occurs. City employees are amazing public

servants who are asked to put aside their personal beliefs and uphold state and federal laws. It is our job as elected officials to take on political battles. I believe shielding city employees from being political targets is also one of my responsibilities as a leader. I won’t put city employees’ jobs at risk by positioning them to be held liable over different interpretations of the law.

All of our event permits have always (and will always) say the permit holder agrees to comply with all laws. Since the original permit was signed prior to this legislation becoming law, our city attorney advised us that it would be necessary for Stonewall to sign the amendment. I believe this was a prudent decision to protect city employees from loss of employment.

I do not regret protecting city staff from this political fight and I hope my appearance in the Stonewall Parade as “Lady Vote” sends a clear message that I don’t believe that drag is illegal as it of clear artistic and political value. I do regret that we didn’t provide more background into our reasoning for approving the amendment, but I hope my statements here make my position very clear. If the governor’s opinion of what is legal differs from mine, I am prepared to fight that battle on behalf of our community. I hope you’ll stand with me – and forgive me if my makeup is a hot mess.

— CHRIS CAPUTO, WILTON MANORS COMMISSIONER

Shawn and Nick’s Courtyard Café is now, more accurately, just Courtyard Café.

The Wilton Drive staple has been bought out. Shawn went on social media to announce the news, writing, “As of April 26, Courtyard Café is under new ownership. I would like to thank the community for 15 years of love and support. I hope that you continue to support them as you have supported me over the years!”

Very few people knew the restaurant was up for sale or that new owners were coming in. The day after the news was announced, SFGN spoke with Branden Vidal, one of the new owners.

“There’s always some uncertainty when there’s a change in ownership. Our intent is not to make a sudden change.”

Vidal, as well as coowners Javier Valdez and Deiler Beltran, have worked in the South Florida LGBT community for years and are all LGBT themselves.

“We have many years of experience in the Miami and Wilton Manors areas,” Vidal said.

The new owners have a fresh vibe that some say is needed on an increasingly staid

Drive. Others may be concerned it’s Miami moving in. Vidal says that’s not the case.

“We don’t intend to bring that Miami vibe. Wilton Manors is a community that has its own hip energy to it. We want to continue that energy.”

Though they’re new to ownership on The Drive, they are very familiar with the neighborhood. Major developments are coming to the city, and the next one could be right across the street at Shoppes of Wilton Manors (aka Alibi Plaza).

Many worry the development could be the beginning of the end of Wilton’s status as an LGBT community. The new owners say that can’t happen.

“Any plan that’s gonna positively affect the community, and continue to support the LGBT community for many years to come, that’s something we’ll be on board with.”

That all comes from their respect for what’s been built here.

“We’re all for what the community wants as long as it continues to keep that LGBT legacy and not chase it off.”

Courtyard Cafe. Photo via Facebook.

“There’s always some uncertainty when there’s a change in ownership. Our intent is not to make a sudden change.”

- Branden Vidal NEW CO-OWNER

Stonewall Pride 2019. Photo by JR Davis.

IMPORTANT FACTS FOR BIKTARVY®

This is only a brief summary of important information about BIKTARVY® and does not replace talking to your healthcare provider about your condition and your treatment.

MOST IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT BIKTARVY

BIKTARVY may cause serious side e ects, including:

 Worsening of hepatitis B (HBV) infection. Your healthcare provider will test you for HBV. If you have both HIV-1 and HBV, your HBV may suddenly get worse if you stop taking BIKTARVY. Do not stop taking BIKTARVY without first talking to your healthcare provider, as they will need to check your health regularly for several months, and may give you HBV medicine.

ABOUT BIKTARVY

BIKTARVY is a complete, 1-pill, once-a-day prescription medicine used to treat HIV-1 in adults and children who weigh at least 55 pounds. It can either be used in people who have never taken HIV-1 medicines before, or people who are replacing their current HIV-1 medicines and whose healthcare provider determines they meet certain requirements.

BIKTARVY does not cure HIV-1 or AIDS. HIV-1 is the virus that causes AIDS.

Do NOT take BIKTARVY if you also take a medicine that contains:

 dofetilide

 rifampin

 any other medicines to treat HIV-1

BEFORE TAKING BIKTARVY

Tell your healthcare provider if you:

 Have or have had any kidney or liver problems, including hepatitis infection.

 Have any other health problems.

 Are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. It is not known if BIKTARVY can harm your unborn baby. Tell your healthcare provider if you become pregnant while taking BIKTARVY.

 Are breastfeeding (nursing) or plan to breastfeed. Do not breastfeed. HIV-1 can be passed to the baby in breast milk.

Tell your healthcare provider about all the medicines you take:

 Keep a list that includes all prescription and over-the-counter medicines, antacids, laxatives, vitamins, and herbal supplements, and show it to your healthcare provider and pharmacist.

 BIKTARVY and other medicines may a ect each other. Ask your healthcare provider and pharmacist about medicines that interact with BIKTARVY, and ask if it is safe to take BIKTARVY with all your other medicines.

POSSIBLE SIDE EFFECTS OF BIKTARVY

BIKTARVY may cause serious side e ects, including:

 Those in the “Most Important Information About BIKTARVY” section.

 Changes in your immune system. Your immune system may get stronger and begin to fi ght infections that may have been hidden in your body. Tell your healthcare provider if you have any new symptoms after you start taking BIKTARVY.

 Kidney problems, including kidney failure. Your healthcare provider should do blood and urine tests to check your kidneys. If you develop new or worse kidney problems, they may tell you to stop taking BIKTARVY.

 Too much lactic acid in your blood (lactic acidosis), which is a serious but rare medical emergency that can lead to death. Tell your healthcare provider right away if you get these symptoms: weakness or being more tired than usual, unusual muscle pain, being short of breath or fast breathing, stomach pain with nausea and vomiting, cold or blue hands and feet, feel dizzy or lightheaded, or a fast or abnormal heartbeat.

 Severe liver problems, which in rare cases can lead to death. Tell your healthcare provider right away if you get these symptoms: skin or the white part of your eyes turns yellow, dark “tea-colored” urine, light-colored stools, loss of appetite for several days or longer, nausea, or stomach-area pain.

 The most common side e ects of BIKTARVY in clinical studies were diarrhea (6%), nausea (6%), and headache (5%).

These are not all the possible side e ects of BIKTARVY. Tell your healthcare provider right away if you have any new symptoms while taking BIKTARVY.

You are encouraged to report negative side e ects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit www.FDA.gov/medwatch or call 1-800-FDA-1088.

Your healthcare provider will need to do tests to monitor your health before and during treatment with BIKTARVY.

HOW TO TAKE BIKTARVY

Take BIKTARVY 1 time each day with or without food. GET

MORE INFORMATION

 This is only a brief summary of important information about BIKTARVY. Talk to your healthcare provider or pharmacist to learn more.

 Go to BIKTARVY.com or call 1-800-GILEAD-5.

 If you need help paying for your medicine, visit BIKTARVY.com for program information.

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BIKTARVY, the BIKTARVY Logo, GILEAD, the GILEAD Logo, and KEEP BEING YOU are trademarks of Gilead Sciences, Inc., or its related companies. © 2023 Gilead Sciences, Inc. All rights reserved.

ELIAS SWITCHED TO BIKTARVY

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BIKTARVY® is a complete, 1-pill, once-a-day prescription medicine used to treat HIV-1 in certain adults. BIKTARVY does not cure HIV-1 or AIDS.

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Person featured takes BIKTARVY and is compensated by Gilead.

5/10/23 2:55 PM

FLORIDA SAYS NO TO DEI AND TWO HOLOCAUST TEXTBOOKS, BUT YES TO AAPI HISTORY

Christiana Lilly

Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis has been on a bill signing spree since the end of the legislative session, and the results have been mixed.

While he signed a bill going against diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) on public colleges and universities, as well as the Florida Department of Education nixing two books that cover the Holocaust, DeSantis also signed a bill that requires the teaching of Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) history.

NO TO DEI

On May 15, DeSantis signed a bill that bars public colleges and universities from spending funds on diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI), nor can they “promote or engage in political of social activism.”

During a press conference at New College in Sarasota, NPR reported that the governor said, “If you look at the way this has actually been implemented across the country, DEI is better viewed as standing for discrimination, exclusion and indoctrination … and that has no place in our public institutions.”

This comes as no surprise, as he has been on a rampage against DEI programming for months. Members of the Divine Nine, a coalition of Black fraternities and sororities founded over a century ago when they were not allowed to join Greek life on campus, voiced their concern about their future on Florida college campuses with the passage of the bill.

YES TO AAPI

However, days earlier on May 9, DeSantis signed a general education bill that would mandate the teaching of Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) history in Florida schools. Specifically, the bill includes the history of Japanese Americans who were forcibly placed in internment camps, AAPI identity and culture, and the contributions of AAPI people to American society.

The public was quick to point out that AP African American Studies has been banned from Florida high schools, as DeSantis and other leaders said the lesson content had a

TEACHER UNDER INVESTIGATION FOR PLAYING DISNEY MOVIE

Christiana Lilly

AHernando County teacher is under investigation by the state — for showing a Disney movie to her students.

Jenna Barbee, who teaches fifth grade, went on TikTok to share how she is being accused of “indoctrination” after playing “Strange World,” which has a gay character.

“I chose this movie because it relates to our curriculum. Our unit at the time was earth science and ecosystems and how they interact … so this movie was perfect,” she explained.

“political agenda.” Specifically, the inclusion of queer theory in the course.

In a press conference, DeSantis addressed the controversy by pointing out that one of the course subjects covers queer theory.

“Now, who would say that an important part of black history is queer theory? That is somebody pushing an agenda on our kids,” he said. “We believe in teaching kids facts and how to think, but we don’t think they should have an agenda forced on them.”

NO TO ‘WOKE’ HOLOCAUST BOOKS

Another decision made impacting education was rejecting two high school textbooks that cover the Holocaust.

“Modern Genocides” was denied because it covered social justice and critical race theory, according to the Jewish Telegraph Agency. The second was “The History of the Holocaust;” the publisher told JTA that it would be appealing the state’s decision.

In a press release from the Department of Education, it shared that it approved 66 of the 101 books submitted for review. However, that was after the department worked with publishers to update their materials to align with Florida law — before the edits, only 19 of 101 were approved.

A middle school textbook was used as an example by the department, showing that the question “What social justice issues are included in the Hebrew Bible?” was edited. In another example, an entire section discussing Black Lives Matter and the death of George Floyd was removed. The department categorized it under “unsolicited topics.”.

After a morning of standardized testing, Barbee treated her students to “a brain break” by watching the Disney movie “Strange World.” The 2022 animated movie tells the story of a family who goes on an expedition underground. At the beginning of the school year, she and other fifth grade teachers collected signed permission slips from parents to allow their children to watch PG movies in class. “Strange World” is rated PG due to “action, peril, and some thematic elements.”

However, Hernando County School Board member and parent Shannon Rodriguez reported Barbee to the Department of Education, saying the movie was inappropriate. In a statement to NPR, school district spokesperson Karen Jordan said the movie violated the Parental Rights in Education Bill, also known as “Don’t Say Gay,” and that parents were sent a note that the movie had been shown.

“While not the main plot of the movie, parts of the story involves a male character having and expressing feelings for another male character,” the note reads. “In the future, this movie will not be shown.”

GEORGE SANTOS INDICTED ON 13 FINANCIAL CRIMES

John McDonald

Justice caught up to George Santos. The gay Republican Congressman, lampooned nationwide for his frequent dishonesty, was indicted on 13 charges ranging from defrauding donors to wrongfully claiming unemployment benefits.

Santos, 34, surrendered to authorities May 10 at a federal courthouse in Long Island, N.Y., vowing to fight the charges.

“It’s a witch hunt,” Santos told reporters, shortly after being released on a $500,000 bond, adding he looks forward to fighting the battle to clear his name.

The indictment includes seven counts of wire fraud, three counts of money laundering, two counts of lying to the House of Representatives on financial forms and one count of theft of public funds. Wire fraud, the most serious offense, carries a maximum penalty of up to 20 years in prison.

The charges came as no surprise to Yassar Rabello, Santos’ former roommate.

“The beginning of something good,” Rabello wrote in a message on the international platform, WhatsApp.

In 2014, Rabello rented a room from Santos in an apartment building in the Jackson Heights neighborhood of Queens. He described Santos as a pathological liar obsessed with power and fame.

“He always wanted to be famous,” said Rabello, who now calls Fort Lauderdale home. “I’m pretty sure he’s enjoying the fame and that everybody is talking about him and doesn’t care if it’s in a bad way.”

It took investigators less than five months to charge Santos in the Eastern District of New York. After pleading not guilty at his arraignment, Santos was ordered to relinquish his passports.

Fifth grade teacher Jenna Barbee shared her story on TikTok. Screenshot.

Screenshot via CNN, YouTube.

Photo via Gov. Ron DeSantis, Facebook.

BLOOD DONORS WILL NO LONGER BE EXCLUDED BY SEXUAL ORIENTATION

Christiana Lilly

After a decades-long ban and required abstinence, men who have sex with men will be able to donate blood just like everyone else.

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced May 11 that blood donors would no longer be assessed by their sexual orientation, but rather by individual questions to determine risk factors and possible exposure to HIV/AIDS.

“These questions will be the same for every donor, regardless of sexual orientation, sex or gender,” the FDA said. “Blood establishments may now implement these recommendations by revising their donor history questionnaires and procedures.”

The move began in January, when the FDA first proposed doing away with targeting men who have sex with men and instead asking

all donors about new or multiple sex partners in the last three months and their history of anal sex in the last three months. Prospective donors who are on PrEP would be exempt from donating blood, as “the available data demonstrate that their use may delay detection of HIV.”

“The implementation of these recommendations will represent a significant milestone for the agency and the LGBTQI+ community,” said Dr. Peter Marks, the director of the FDA’s Center for Biologics Evaluation and Research.

As a result of the AIDS crisis, the FDA put a lifetime ban on gay and bisexual men from donating blood in 1983. In 2015, the agency relaxed the rules and instead required that men who have sex with men abstain from sex for one year before donating. This time period was shortened to three months in 2020.

In the days following the Pulse shooting in Orlando that killed 49 people, rumors circulated that the rules had been lifted — however, the FDA confirmed that no, gay and bisexual men were still unable todonate blood to those who needed it.

On May 11, the Congressional Equality Caucus applauded the FDA’s update for blood donors.

“For far too long, the federal government used outdated and unscientific fears to determine who can and cannot give blood,” Equality Caucus Chair Rep. Mark Pocan said in a statement. “This recommendation aligns with the LGBTQI+ community’s longterm request for individualized risk-based assessments.”

Photo via Adobe.

“THE IMPLEMENTATION OF THESE RECOMMENDATIONS

WILL REPRESENT A SIGNIFICANT MILESTONE FOR THE AGENCY AND THE LGBTQI+ COMMUNITY.”

- Dr. Peter Marks

DIRECTOR OF THE FDA’S CENTER FOR BIOLOGICS EVALUATION AND RESEARCH

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NORM KENT AND POOCH LEAVE US

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Personally speaking, reflecting on the passing of Pooch and Norm has unintentionally woven as sad tapestry for me in light of my long-term memories of these bigger-than-life guys.

I actually met Pooch when he and his two other friends landed in South Florida so many years ago. I learned his real name from one of his friends but promised not to reveal it, which I never did. Now, that fading memory has wiped away my recollecting his family name, but not the many years of our early and lingering friendship.

I’ve known Norm for so many years and will never forget when he asked me to do a column for him but, from a conservative angle, especially since I was involved with Log Cabin Republicans locally and nationally. I was taken back because I knew our politics were not strategically compatible and all I could think is that, opposites must attract. I told him it would cause a real stir as it did when I wrote for David Magazine. I remember when Mark Reiley and Hank Goddard had to eventually terminate my David Magazine column. They warned me that from their experience and community-political input that those who opposed my politics would endeavor to assure that I would never be able to write in another community publication again. I told them I expected that and reminded them of my earlier warnings to them when I was originally approached.

As the time flew by along came Norman Kent, seemingly an historical repeat for me of the David Magazine experience. I warned Norm of what could happen, but he told me it was his decision. Frankly Speaking lasted for a time but eventually it reached its political guillotine. Norm once said to me that my column raised a lot of heat, but it did bring attention to the publication which may have been part of his PR intent and an incentive to stimulate or, as some would put it, incite the readership to react and respond germinating an increasing circulation.

I am sad to see these old acquaintances pass on and I pray that they are resting in the peace they deserve. I have a lot of memories relative to both men and I am so thankful that they were a part of my life both in some of the fun times and times that were rocky especially when I was not being embraced by others. Obviously, there were opponents who were offended by my politics and, at times, even my expressed religious beliefs.

With fond and beautiful memories, Norm and Pooch will always be a cherished part of my life here in South Florida, or as good ole “Bike Daddy” sometimes said, Fort “Liquordale.”

Sincerely,

Andy (A-Jay Eddy)

Courtesy photo.

Courtesy photo.

LIFESTYLE READING WITH PRIDE

‘THAT SUMMER FEELING’

Love can be a fascinating subject. Therefore, author Bridget Morrissey wanted to highlight a queer romantic relationship in “That Summer Feeling.”

WHAT WAS THE INSPIRATION BEHIND “THAT SUMMER FEELING”?

“That Summer Feeling” is about a young divorcee who attends an adults-only sleep-away camp, where she falls in love with a woman for the first time. I never went to a proper sleep-away camp as a kid, so it’s always been a point of fascination for me. Writing this book allowed me to attend in the exact way I would want to — at a camp full of other adults who are seeking something genuinely fun and healing. When it comes to the divorce element, I have several close friends who got divorced before they turned 30, and I wanted to represent that too, because I really believe in reminding people it’s never too late to reimagine what you want your life to look like, and a great place to start is by reconnecting with the things you wanted to do as a child. Like summer camp!

WHY DO YOU FEEL REPRESENTATION OF A VARIETY OF PEOPLE IS SO IMPORTANT WHEN IT COMES TO WRITING BOOKS?

Fiction is one of the best tools for understanding how we all move through the world. Books deepen

empathy, because they immerse you in the feelings of people who may not look, or think, or live like you do. So the more representation we get in books, the more acceptance and understanding we (hopefully!) get from those who read them. As a writer, I understand the importance of that, and I always seek to make my fictional worlds as inclusive as possible. I want my stories to be a soft place to land.

TELL US A LITTLE MORE ABOUT THE BOOK AND WHY YOU DECIDED TO WRITE IT.

I have been trying to write a sapphic book for years now. All of my other ideas fizzled out for one reason or another. When I came up with the concept of adult summer camp, I knew it was the perfect setting for a queer romance. There’s something very soul-satisfying to me about imagining a woman in her thirties having her queer awakening at summer camp, because it goes along with what I said earlier — it’s never too late. You’re not too old or too anything to have the life you really want.

WHAT CAN FANS EXPECT FROM YOUR BOOK?

They can expect lots of queerness, romance, found family, inner child reconnection, and just a general sense of joy. All of the characters come to this camp to work through their pain in a place that’s safe, loving, and fun. This book is meant to be a warm hug from me to my fellow queer people.

Aurora Dominguez

Bridget Morrissey via @bridgetjmorrissey.

BILLIE JEAN KING’S BOOK UNDER REVIEW

Kim Swan

The war against books isn’t over yet.

After a parent’s complaint, “I Am Billie Jean King,” a children’s book by Brad Meltzer, is under review to determine if it’s “age appropriate,” according to the Tallahassee Democrat. The book will remain on the shelves during the process.

“Leon County Schools is committed to following state statute and board policy when reviewing media center materials,” District Spokesperson Chris Petley wrote in a statement.

Although King is known for winning the “Battle of the Sexes” match against Bobby Riggs in 1973, she is also an activist for gender equality and LGBT rights. She was married to sports promoter Larry, and was forced to come out publicly in 1981.

The complaint came from a parent at Hawks Rise Elementary School regarding LGBT content.

The book includes a section describing how King fell in love with Ilana Kloss and

married her.

“Eventually, Larry and I stopped being married and I fell in love with a wonderful woman named Ilana,” King’s cartoon depiction says in the book. “You can’t choose who you fall in love with. Your heart will tell you.”

The complaint was filed after King criticized Gov. Ron DeSantis and the “Don’t Say Gay” law. “I think it’s sad,”; King said in Delray Beach. “I’m very big on inclusion, everybody being their authentic self...”

The author of the book condemned book bans on his Twitter.

“Fight for books. Fight for stories,” Meltzer wrote.

WILTON MANORS NEXT STOP IN 'TRACY JONES' ROLLING PREMIERE

J.W. Arnold

Stephen Kaplan and his new play “Tracy Jones” are on a roll – actually, a “rolling premiere.” The production opening on May 18 at Island City Stage in Wilton Manors is the third of three world premiere productions beginning last year in Rochester, N.Y. and Williamston, Mich.

Rolling World Premieres are a program of the National New Play Network, explained Kaplan in a phone interview from his home in New Jersey.

“There was this problem where new plays would get their first production and then languish,” the 45-year-old said. “The rolling world premieres were conceived to support new work, new playwrights and theaters that are all doing new work.”

Three member theaters commit to productions within one year, but there’s a catch – each of the productions is completely independent of the others.

“Because they don’t share casts or directors, the play and the playwright can evolve,” added Kaplan. “It’s been great for me because I’ve been able to make changes throughout. This is the culmination of everything.”

The play was workshopped extensively before the premiere, but he took advantage of the opportunities to make the jokes stronger and choreograph the physical comedy.

“It’s very physical and farcical in nature. There’s a lot of food that flies on stage, for example – it’s a very messy play – so figuring out the logistics was important. The script is very specific,” he said.

In Kaplan’s story, Tracy Jones is a lonely woman who leads a dull, uneventful life and she’s sure it’s partly because her name is drab. But, what if she celebrates her name by hosting a party and inviting every woman she can find named Tracy Jones – not just from her

hometown, but all over the world? And, what if she hosts it at Jones Street Bar and Grill, the Place for Wings (and Things)?

The gathering quickly gets messy, even as new bonds are created between four characters all seeking just a little bit of love and personal connection.

“I always remember Googling my name and wondering about all the Stephen Kaplans in the world,” he said.

The Los Angeles native grew up in the theater, first as a child performer who turned to playwriting as a teenager. An early work got produced and won awards, setting up a 30year career “exploring the stories I want to be telling.”

He always knew this play would be called “Tracy Jones,” and whipped out the script over a few months in 2019, while participating in a writing group. The first production was set for May 2020, but the pandemic emerged, postponing the premiere, but also setting up the opportunity he’s now enjoying.

“I’m always optimistic, but the pandemic taught us how crucial being together is. I tried doing some of the ‘Zoom theater’ that was going on, but it was a means to an end. It reminded me how much I needed a space for people to come together to experience the same thing at the same time and place,” Kaplan pointed out.

The theater world has taken notice and two more productions of “Tracy Jones” have already been licensed.

He concluded, “I feel like people have responded to it in the way that I hoped … my diverse group of characters are all a little damaged, a little lost, all trying to do the right things.

Audiences have been finding themselves in these characters, which is my hope with any play.”

Photo via Billie Jean King, Facebook.

Stephen Kaplan’s new play, “Tracy Jones,” will be produced at Island City Stage in Wilton Manors, May 18 – June 18, as part of a “rolling world premiere.” Credit: Courtesy.

Island City Stage, 2304 N. Dixie Hwy. in Wilton Manors, presents the rolling world premiere of Stephen Kaplan’s “Tracy Jones,” May 18 – June 18. Tickets start at $40 at IslandCityStage.org.

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