SFGN 06/03/21 V12iss22 by South Florida Gay News

LOCAL NAME GLOBAL COVERAGE

JUNE 3, 2021 VOL. 12 // ISSUE 22

TALLAHASSEE TRANSPHOBIA LGBT GROUPS RALLY AGAINST TRANS BAN PAGES 16 - 17, 20

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NEWS HIGHLIGHT

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NEW RADIO SHOW TACKLES POLITICS IN GREATER MIAMI AREA Local gay man co-hosts the weekly podcast

THERE’S MORE ONLINE! SEE OUR NEWS IN VIDEO! Online now! 2

• 6 . 3. 2021

have an obligation to make sure we’re sharing as much information as possible with the people of our area,” he said. “We felt bringing our street-level view of issues, legislation and going-ons of Greater Miami and the Beaches were an opportunity to help residents of our city be more engaged and up to date with what’s happening around the city.” Porter also serves as vice president of Northeast Miami-Dade Democrats. His goal in that role is to get more citizens involved in their communities, saying it takes more than one person or one committee to get things done. “There are no superpower heroes doing this work,” he said. “It’s regular people who show up and contribute their time and talents to making the world a better place.” In addition to politics, Porter enjoys a good cocktail and is taking his brand of premium mixers to the next level. He founded 2 Skinny Drunks with his cousin, Dianna Mulcahy, with the goal of being “the Bentley of booze.” Now he’s honoring his Scottish heritage by developing their own line of spirits. “Our first spirit will be a premium quality gin spirit. As with all things we have done as a company, our goals are always to create the highest-quality product possible,” he said. “We will never sell something that we’re not drinking ourselves.” As if that wasn’t enough to stay busy, Porter also works with the Miami Yacht Club.

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Art Director • Brendon Lies Artwork@sfgn.com Webmaster • Kimberly Swan Webmaster@sfgn.com Social Media Director • Christiana Lilly Arts/Entertainment Editor • J.W. Arnold JW@prdconline.com Food/Travel Editor • Rick Karlin Gazette News Editor • John McDonald HIV Editor • Sean McShee Senior Photographer • J.R. Davis JRDavis12000@hotmail.com

John Hayden he old saying goes: “All politics is local.” It’s a mantra that’s serving John Porter and his community well. He’s co-hosting “On The Back Porch,” (OTBP) a new, weekly radio show focusing on local governments that make decisions that impact South Floridians every day. “We hope as the show grows that we will be able to be a conduit between the listeners and the people who are working on important issues,” Porter said. With more than 100 municipalities in Miami-Dade, Broward, and Palm Beach counties, it’s impossible for even large news organizations to keep track of every council meeting and committee agenda. Porter hopes OTBP will highlight what would otherwise fly below the radar with a focus on the Greater Miami Area. It includes current events and what’s happening on the street level in the Magic City. OTBP airs Fridays from 9-10 p.m. on WLQY AM 1320. Each show can be downloaded as a podcast as well. “There is a large part of municipal level news that isn’t caught by television or print media and we hope to bridge that gap,” Porter said. “I see the show as a week in review. All the things you’re too busy to keep up with that is going on.” Porter co-hosts with Laura Hill, and is also managing her campaign for City Council District 3 in North Miami. They’ve worked together on community issues ranging from banning Styrofoam in North Miami, banning pesticides in public parks, and defeating a $120 million bond issue in North Miami. “We have become trusted public leaders in the communities and with that I think we

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June 3, 2021 • Volume 12 • Issue 22

Senior Feature Columnists

Brian McNaught • Jesse Monteagudo

Special to SFGN Steve Rothaus

Correspondents

Donald Cavanaugh • John McDonald Deon Jefferson • David-Elijah Nahmod Denise Royal • John Hayden • Elliot Rodriguez Kendall Little • Everitt Rosen • Corey Rose

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Pier Angelo • Terri Schlichenmeyer Rick Karlin • Dana Rudolph • Ric Reily

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John Porter. Courtesy photo.

“The Yacht Club is a Sailing Center for the 99%,” he said. “It’s vitally important that access to the water not be reserved solely for the 1% of the world.” His work on the planning and finance committees helps him make sure the club continues to provide STEM education as well as water safety, sailing, and wind-surfing to at risk youth.

To learn more about OTBP you can check out the show’s website at Facebook.com/ OnTheBackPorch. Download the podcasts at podcasts.apple.com.

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COVER: Local activist Tatiana Williams speaks at The Pride Center during a rally against the recent trans athletes ban. Credit: Stephen Lang.

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NLGJA Journalist of the Year SOUTH FLORIDA GAY NEWS.COM, INC. — — FOUNDED, DECEMBER, 2009 BY PIER GUIDUGLI AND NORM KENT 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 or gender identity of individuals based on their names or pictorial representations in SFGN. SFGN contracts with independent entities for stock images. 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.

AHF Healthcare Centers

6 . 3. 20 21 •

NEWS LOCAL

J.R.’s SNAPSHOTS

OF THE

From your life... into our pages! SFGN takes a weekly look at a community that has stood together through countless trials and victories in the past year alone.

Edward Marti Kring, SAVE Community and Field Organizer, with Orlando Gonzales, executive director at SAVE.

Barbara Signer, board member of Our Fund and Equality Florida, with wife Fran Epstein.

• 6 . 3. 2021

WEEK Photos by J.R. Davis

Artist Trish Stypka with her wife, photographer Jane Kreinberg.

Boys With Boats Rob Sheppard with his partner Chris Lodge.

NEWS LOCAL

SWEAT WITH PRIDE Fitness Expo muscles up to addiction

Kendall Little

ark Turnipseed wasn’t always a model, fitness coach and author. Addiction and depression ruled his life for years before he discovered his lifeline: fitness. Now, Turnipseed wants to share his journey and resources with others through the Sweat with Pride Fitness Expo. The expo will be held at FTX Wellness and Performance in Boca Raton June 13. Several different vendors will be set up at the expo to offer advice, products, and a path to sobriety to attendees. Celebrity beauty expert Tim Quinn, who has worked with Giorgio Armani Beauty, will be at the expo to share his stories and advice about becoming your best self. “We’ve partnered up just because we believe that feeling beautiful on the outside is helping that mind, body, and spirit connection and is helping people recover, may it be from trauma, addiction, or the loss of a loved one,” Turnipseed said. “Developing that connection with yourself is very important.” The expo also received donations from Hampton Sun and Dr. Barbara Sturm skin products. Turnipseed believes that getting and staying sober requires an alignment of mind, body, and spirit. “When I first got sober, that connected my mind with my spirit, but my body was still floundering about not knowing what to do and I ended up gaining a whole bunch of weight, and finding a brand-new depression,” he said. After relapsing, Turnipseed decided enough was enough. He began going to the gym to swim and even started training for a triathlon. A couple months into his training, he started a blog so other people could benefit from his journey. Then, he came out. “Building your network is a big thing that can happen by coming [to the expo]. Meeting other people in the LGBTQ community or other people who may not be in the LGBTQ community but are supportive of it is a huge part of recovery,” he said. Turnipseed shared that Lakeview Health as well as Recovery Unplugged, two

Mark Turnipseed. Photo via @markaturnipseed, Instagram.

nationwide rehabilitation centers, will also have booths at the expo to answer questions and offer resources for overcoming addiction. Mark will be signing copies of his number one best-selling LGBT memoir, “My Suicide Race.” Turnipseed knows that recovering from addiction is hard, but encourages those seeking advice to come to the expo and to start small. “I started by waking up and making my bed. I would wake up, make my bed and then I would lay back in my made bed, and I would fall back to sleep,” he said. “This little itty bitty change of just making my bed and laying back in, it started to change something inside of me.” Turnipseed wants recovering addicts to know that they are not alone and have plenty of people ready to help them on their journey. “That’s one of the biggest things that people can realize is that they’re not alone. They’re not the only hopeless people,” he said. “One of the most important things that I teach people who are still struggling with addiction is to be compassionate to yourself.” While an expo may not seem like the path to recovery, Turnipseed firmly believes it is a way to take the first step.

To register for the Sweat with Pride Fitness Expo, visit www.gayandsober.org/wellness. 6 . 3. 20 21 •

NEWS NATIONAL

BY COREY ROSE

THE COUNTRY ACROSS

CALIFORNIA

BLACK LIVES MATTER EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR STEPS DOWN

Out activist and author Patrisse Cullors will be stepping away from her role as executive director of Black Lives Matter Global Network Foundation, according to a May 27 statement from the organization. Cullors is leaving the organization she co-founded to focus on the release of her second book this fall and her multi-year contract with Warner Bros. Cullors told the Associated Press, “With smart, experienced and committed people supporting the organization during this transition, I know that BLMGNF is in good hands. The foundation’s agenda remains the same — eradicate white supremacy and build life-affirming institutions.” The #BlackLivesMatter movement started in 2013 in response to Trayvon Martin’s death in Florida. Cullors shared a Facebook status from fellow out co-

Patrisse Cullors. Photo credit: Steve Eason, via Wikipedia.

founder Alicia Garza with the hashtag that has since grown into a global symbol for Black liberation. Higher Ground Change Strategies Chief Strategist Makani Themba, and Time’s Up Foundation Chief Operating Officer Monifa Bandele will act as interim senior executives until the organization names a permanent team. Cullors’ last day with the organization was May 28.

TENNESSEE TENNESSEE AUTHORITIES PUSH BACK AGAINST ANTI-TRANS LEGISLATION District attorneys across the state are raising questions about a new law requiring businesses to post signs saying they allow transgender individuals to use their restrooms, one of the first anti-trans bathroom bills to be enacted anywhere in the United States since 2016. The Human Rights Campaign has called the effects of House Bill 1182 (SB 1224) “degrading and dehumanizing,” and has promised to fight the law, signed by Tennessee Gov. Bill Lee in May. Nashville District Attorney General Glenn Funk told the Associated Press, “I believe every person is welcome and valued in Nashville. Enforcement of transphobic or homophobic laws is contrary to those values. My office will not promote hate.”

• 6 . 3. 2021

Credit: The Gender Spectrum Collection by Broadly, VICE.

Others are unsure where, how, and by whom the law would be enforced. Shelby County District Attorney Amy Weirich told the AP, “The way it’s written, I don’t see anything that allows or provides me the responsibility or right to go to civil court and ask a judge to enforce it.” The law goes into effect July 1.

COVERING LGBT NEWS SWEEPING THE NATION

WASHINGTON D.C.

FIRST OPENLY GAY WHITE HOUSE SPOKESWOMAN TAKES THE STAND

Last week, White House Principal Deputy Press Secretary Karine JeanPierre made history as the first Haitian, first openly gay, and second Black spokeswoman to address the press on behalf of the Oval Office. Jean-Pierre served as Vice President Kamala Harris’ chief of staff during the 2020 election campaigns, and served in the Obama administration as the White House liaison to the Labor Department and Regional Director of the White House Office of Political Affairs. She is currently being seen as a possible replacement for current White House Press Secretary Jen Psaki, who has previously announced her upcoming departure from the role next year. Jean-Pierre told reporters, “It’s a real honor to be standing here today. I

Karine Jean-Pierre. Photo via Facebook.

appreciate the historic nature, I really do, but I believe that being behind this podium, being in this room, being in this building, is not about one person. It’s about what we do on behalf of the American people.”

NEVADA NEVADA REVISES OUT OF DATE HIV LAWS Nevada legislators have reversed a law that advocates say unfairly punished those living with HIV. Senate Bill 275 includes heavy revisions to the language surrounding communicable diseases, and removes felony status for those who knowingly or intentionally transmit HIV, limiting punishments to a warning on first offense and a misdemeanor for the second offense. The revisions to the law make treatment of individuals living with HIV consistent with other laws regarding other communicable diseases. Sen. Dallas Harris, who sponsored the bill and co-chairs the Advisory Task Force on HIV Exposure Modernization, told the Los Angeles Blade, “The old laws also disproportionately affected already marginalized groups, including people

Sen. Dallas Harris. Photo via Facebook.

of color and LGBTQ+ people. Passage of SB275 helps to remove the statutory stigma that was intentionally placed into our laws that’s done nothing but harm to those who contracted HIV.”

NEWS INTERNATIONAL

BY EVERITT ROSEN

THE WORLD AROUND

EXPLORING LGBT NEWS EVENTS ACROSS THE GLOBE

ASIA

EUROPE

BOYS’ LOVE TELEVISION DRAMAS DANCE AROUND LGBT CENSORS IN CHINA

LITHUANIAN BILL TO ALLOW SAME-SEX MARRIAGE FAILS AT FIRST HURDLE

Despite the fact that China decriminalized homosexuality in 1997, same-sex marriage remains illegal, and LGBT topics remain taboo. According to the South China Morning Post, “boys’ love” adaptations are blooming, with streaming giants like as Youku and Tencent Video screening them. This is mostly due to demand from straight women and their rising interest in a more sensitive kind of masculinity. Authorities have stepped up their crackdown on “illegal” online writing, suppressing information judged too risqué for Chinese audiences. A author was sentenced to 10 years in jail in 2018 for authoring and distributing obscene publications. “Sexual content in [same-sex] web novels has reduced since authorities

“Word of Honour.” Photo via Weibo.

embarked on cyberspace clean-ups and platforms introduced review and report mechanisms,” said Lianonin University lecturer Meijiadai Bai to the South China Morning Post. “The rise of ‘boys’ love’ content suggests the on-screen industry is aware of young women’s consumption power.”

A bill in Lithuania that would have allowed same-sex couples to form civil unions failed to pass its first legislative hurdle. According to Euronews, the bill, which is also known as the Partnership Law, needed 65 votes to move forward, but it was narrowly defeated as 63 members of Parliament voted in favor, 58 voted against, and seven abstained. “I am disappointed with yesterday’s decision. Nevertheless, [the] good news is that we have received the support of 63 MPs and we lacked only two votes to pass the Partnership Law at the first hearing,” Tomas Raskevičius, an openly gay MP who sponsored the bill, told Euronews. The failure of the bill comes after demonstrations in Lithuania over the bill’s introduction.

Photo via PxHere.

Thousands of people marched in Vilnius in May to protest the law, which was nicknamed the “Great Family Defence March.”

AFRICA

SOUTH AMERICA

RALLY HELD AGAINST LGBT RIGHTS IN SENEGAL

BRAZILIAN TEEN WRITES TO NEIGHBORS FOR HELP ESCAPING HOMOPHOBIC FATHER

Hundreds of demonstrators have gathered to demand that homosexuality be declared a criminal offense in Senegal. According to Africanews, hundreds of ecstatic protestors gathered in a central area for a demonstration organized by And Samm Jikko Yi, a civil society collective that supports “proper values.” Religious leaders and civil society organizations addressed the crowd. The government of Senegal has frequently said that homosexuality would not be legalized. President Macky Sall of Senegal has previously stated that homosexual individuals are not persecuted in the 16-million-strong country, and that the restriction on same-sex conduct reflects cultural values. Senegal, according to Ousmane Kouta,

Photo via Adobe.

a spokesman of a student religious group, is a country of religion and values. To cheers and screamed slogans, he remarked, “[Senegal] is homophobic and will stay such forever.”

A homosexual boy in Brazil penned a heartfelt letter to his neighbors pleading with them to save him from his supposedly bigoted father, urging them to call the cops. According to Pink News, neighbors watched the father beating his son after getting the letter and reported the violent episode to the authorities. In the clip, the father is heard threatening to “murder” his kid. According to the police who arrived at the scene in Jataí, the teenager had abrasions on his body. Paula Daniela Ruza, a police spokesperson, claimed the father told officers he “doesn’t care” that his son is homosexual and that the incident occurred because he saw his son “accessing pornographic videos on his cell phone.”

Photo via PxHere.

According to Pink News, the teen was taken to an aunt’s house and will undergo counseling. An investigation was launched into the incident, and the police will be gathering information from neighbors and analysing the letter.

6 . 3. 20 21 •

LGBTQIA BITES

BY KENDALL LITTLE

IT’S NOT ALWAYS ABOUT THE G

Queer

MOLLY OSTERTAG PRIORITIZES QUEER REPRESENTATION IN LATEST GRAPHIC NOVEL American cartoonist and writer Molly Knox Ostertag wanted her newest graphic novel to highlight queer representation, so she did just that. “The Girl From the Sea” is about a young teenage girl who is not out yet, but ends up in a whirlwind romance with a mysterious girl who loves the water. “I really wanted to do a story where they kissed in the first 16 pages and the rest of the book is dealing with the repercussions of that kiss and trying to figure out how to have a relationship and have these separate goals that both girls have,” Ostertag said to the Advocate. She also wanted to create a story about coming out that didn’t focus on homophobia or the violent hardships some people face.

• 6 . 3. 2021

Author Molly Knox Ostertag. Credit: Swordzboi, via Wikipedia.

“Even if there’s other complications, there’s this fantasy wish-fulfillment of the actual romance that I hadn’t seen a lot in media for teens. So I had a lot of fun. It’s my favorite thing. If I could only draw fluffy romance all day, that would be ideal,” Ostertag said.

... HERE’S WHAT ELSE IS HAPPENING IN THE LGBTQIA COMMUNITY

Bisexual

LADY GAGA’S ‘BORN THIS WAY’ TURNS 10 YEARS OLD

May 23 marked the 10th anniversary of Lady Gaga’s sophomore studio album, “Born This Way.” The album has been a staple in the LGBT community due to its inclusive lyrics and proud anthem titled the same as the album. “‘Born This Way,’ my song and album, were inspired by Carl Bean, a gay Black religious activist who preached, sung and wrote about being ‘Born This Way.’ Notably his early work was in 1975, 11 years before I was born,” Gaga wrote on Instagram on the anniversary of her album. The caption accompanied a photo of Gaga laying on a huge sign that read “BORN THIS WAY” in the colors of different pride flags. In honor of the 10-year anniversary, Gaga announced a special edition of the

Lady Gaga. Photo via Facebook.

album including reimagined versions of certain songs.

LGBTQIA BITES

Transgender

ELLIOT PAGE SHOWS OFF HIS TOP SURGERY RESULTS

Elliot Page posted a photo of himself shirtless on Instagram May 24, showing the results of his top surgery. Page came out as transgender in December of 2020 and this is the first photo of him post-transition. “Trans bb’s first swim trunks #transjoy #transisbeautiful,” Page captioned the photo. Fans were quick to show their support on social media. “Elliot Page out here living his best life and we love to see it,” one Twitter user wrote. Page’s abs were quite the conversation piece among fans. “Elliot Page has some sick fucking abs. He has EVERY ab,” a Twitter user posted. Other fans noted how happy the actor seemed in the photo. “Seeing Elliot Page be happy gives me second hand happiness. Gender euphoria is amazing, just look at the smile on his face :),” one Twitter user tweeted.

Elliot Page. Photo via Instagram.

We Believe You

Palm Beach County Victim Services & Certified Rape Crisis Center offers free and confidential services to all victims of crime in a safe environment. Regardless of your gender, gender identity, race, sexual orientation or whether you report or not, the following services are available: • 24 hour crisis response to hospitals, law enforcement agencies, and the crime scene • Certifi ed Victim Advocates to support you • Criminal Justice advocacy and court accompaniment • Individual therapy and support groups • Forensic exams by Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner (SANE) at the forensic exam site-“The Butterfly House” • Information and referral to community resources

Call our 24-hour, free and conﬁdential Helpline:

Local: (561) 833-7273 Toll Free: (866)891-7273

This project was supported by Grant No. 2017-WE-AX-0034 awarded by the Office of Violence Against Women, U.S. Department of Justice. The opinions, findings, conclusions, and recommendations expressed in this publication/program/exhibition are those of the author (s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of the Department of Justice, Office on Violence Against Women.

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NEWS LOCAL

OUR FUND FOUNDATION KICKSTARTS

LGBT ART IN SOUTH FLORIDA Corey Rose

fter 15 months of uncertainty about the future of live entertainment in South Florida, several organizations are leading the return with a tidal wave of LGBT programming, thanks to an initiative started by the Our Fund Foundation.

The region’s only LGBT community give audiences a taste of New York-style foundation dispersed 18 grants totaling experimentation for the times. $226,500, part of a bigger mission to “It’s actually a movement piece where “stabilize South Florida’s LGBTQ arts and there’s something happening in different cultural community; promote virtual spaces simultaneously, and the audience is presentations; engage with allies who could broken up into groups,” Stodard said. help support these struggling arts and At Island City Stage, Artistic Director cultural organizations; and Andy Rogow and Managing create a springboard for the Director Martin Childers non-profits to restART and are using the grant to help flourish post-pandemic,” mitigate COVID concerns according to a statement. with a new outdoor lobby Thinking Cap Theatre where future theater-goers Producing Artistic Director can have “a beautiful spot Dr. Nicole Stodard said the to hang out, have a drink, or organization has “been a talk with friends outside and lifeline,” and provided muchbe in a less-enclosed space,” needed support throughout according to Childers. the pandemic, which has had The lobby will help the a particularly devastating theater make money back effect on South Florida’s in concessions, a revenue theater community. stream that was lost due to “They’ve helped us in a way the pandemic. Childers hopes that no other organization the space will make audiences has in the last year and a feel safe by providing an half, and I don’t know how open-air courtyard to gather we would have been able to before the show and during just maintain our monthly intermission. operating costs, if it weren’t Island City Stage holds - Dr. Nicole Stodard for their support,” Stodard a unique place in South THINKING CAP THEATRE said. Florida as the region’s only PRODUCING ARTISTIC DIRECTOR Stodard said the 11-yeartheater company dedicated old theater company will put to producing stories by and the grant money towards for the LGBT community, a helping “gay audiences and street audiences trait Rogow said has made their organization find a common ground in a much more successful. intentional way” through the production “A normal regional theater might do one of two in-person plays by lesbian and gay ‘gay play’ in a season, which isn’t a lot,” said playwrights: Fefu and Her Friends, by Latina Rogow. “The LGBT community sees us as lesbian playwright María Irene Fornés, and a theirs. They feel a part of it, it really, in that new adaptation of Oscar Wilde’s Fairy Tales. sense, it’s a community theater.” To keep audiences from sitting still in Just down the street from the theater, the an enclosed space for too long, Fefu will Gay Men’s Chorus of South Florida is using

“... I DON’T KNOW HOW WE WOULD HAVE BEEN ABLE TO JUST MAINTAIN OUR MONTHLY OPERATING COSTS, IF IT WEREN’T FOR THEIR SUPPORT.”

• 6 . 3.2021

Photo via PxHere.

their portion of the money to show fulllength concerts, presented both online and at drive-in theater events. When the pandemic hit in March 2020, Executive Director Mark Kent had to figure out how to keep their performers safe while still producing the joyful noise the chorus has become known for in its 11 years as an organization. “All of the guys in our chorus each have to be videotaped and recorded individually, because they can’t sing together in one space,” Kent said. “It’s very labor intensive, and the final editing takes days upon days.” Kent said through the pandemic, Our Fund helped LGBT arts leaders bulk contract with vendors to reduce overall expenses for the community’s organizations. The latest grant will help them afford the production company that directs, films, and edits the concerts, as well as cover the costs for security and parking for the drive-in concerts. “None of our LGBT arts nonprofits have gone out of business, and we easily could have,” Kent said. At the World AIDS Museum and Educational Center in Fort Lauderdale,

Executive Director Dr. Réquel Lopes said she saw the grant as an opportunity to show the world how the museum is “positioned to be able to tell the unique story that no one else is around the history of HIV.” Prior to the pandemic, museum programming was all in-person, from the exhibits detailing the chronology of HIV research to the community dialogues held by the educational center. Lopes said the launch of the virtual “WAM Conversation Series” allowed the organization to bring the community into discussion about HIV history with top leaders and researchers in the field. The grant will allow them to digitize collections and museum exhibits, portions of which will be housed on the website, and keep hybrid options for future programming. “I don’t think that virtual platforms are going to go away because everything opens,” Lopes said. “People are going to want to have that opportunity that was afforded to them in the past year.” Our Fund Foundation will hold a socially distanced grant reception in early June.

6 . 3. 20 21 •

NEWS NATIONAL

80% OF LGBT YOUTH REPORTED THE PANDEMIC

BADLY STRESSED THEM OUT Brody Levesque Washington Blade

n its third annual survey released late last week, The Trevor Project found that well over two-thirds of the 35,000 LGBTQ youth ages 13–24 across the United States interviewed reported that the effects of the coronavirus pandemic have largely negatively impacted their lives.

“The past year has been incredibly difficult youth, and 12% of Asian/Pacific Islander youth. for so many LGBTQ young people because of Statistically, LGBT youth are more at risk for multiple crises, from the COVID-19 pandemic to depression and suicide than their heterosexual the hostile political climate and repeated acts of peers. A contributing factor is the lack of an racist and transphobic violence. This data makes affirming home space or environment. More clear that LGBTQ youth face unique mental than 80% of LGBTQ youth stated that COVID-19 health challenges and continue to experience made their living situation more stressful — and disparities in access to affirming care, family only 1 in 3 LGBTQ youth found their home to be rejection, and discrimination,” Amit Paley, LGBT-affirming. CEO & executive director of The Trevor Project “These findings are extremely concerning as told the Blade in an emailed they highlight many distinct statement. factors that contribute to “We are proud that this LGBTQ youth suicide risk. survey sample is our most But we encourage lawmakers, diverse yet, with 45% being public health officials, and LGBTQ youth of color and youth-serving organizations to 38% being transgender or focus on the protective factors nonbinary. The data speaks to illuminated in the data, which the wide variety of experiences point to best practices on how and identities held by LGBTQ to better support LGBTQ young youth across the country, people,” Dr. Amy Green, vice and emphasizes the need for president of Research at The comprehensive, intersectional Trevor Project the licensed policy solutions to confront clinical psychologist who systemic barriers and end oversaw the survey said. suicide,” he added. “Once again, we find that The Trevor Project also noted LGBTQ-affirming spaces and that this year’s survey reflected transgender-inclusive policies a wider sense of diversity, with and practices are consistently 45% of LGBTQ youth survey associated with lower rates of being of color and 38% being attempting suicide. The past transgender or nonbinary. The year has been really difficult study highlights that only 1 - Dr. Amy Green for so many of us, but we also in 3 LGBTQ+ youths live in an know that LGBTQ youth, in VICE PRESIDENT OF RESEARCH, affirming home. It also shows particular, are facing unique THE TREVOR PROJECT the impact of discrimination on challenges,” said Green. the mental health of LGBTQ+ Key Findings include: youths of color. 94% of LGBTQ youth reported that recent According to the report, 42% of LGBTQ politics negatively impacted their mental health. youth seriously considered attempting suicide 70% of LGBTQ youth stated that their mental in the past year, including more than half of health was “poor” most of the time or always transgender and nonbinary youth. Additionally, during COVID-19. 12% of white youth attempted suicide compared 48% of LGBTQ youth reported they wanted to 31% of Native/Indigenous youth, 21% of Black counseling from a mental health professional youth, 21% of multiracial youth, 18% of Latinx but were unable to receive it in the past year.

“THE PAST YEAR HAS BEEN REALLY DIFFICULT FOR SO MANY OF US, BUT WE ALSO KNOW THAT LGBTQ YOUTH, IN PARTICULAR, ARE FACING UNIQUE CHALLENGES.”

• 6 . 3.2021

Photo via PxHere.

30% of LGBTQ youth experienced food insecurity in the past month, including half of all Native/Indigenous LGBTQ youth. 75% of LGBTQ youth reported that they had experienced discrimination based on their sexual orientation or gender identity at least once in their lifetime. Half of all LGBTQ youth of color reported discrimination based on their race/ethnicity in the past year, including 67% of Black LGBTQ youth and 60% of Asian/Pacific Islander LGBTQ youth. 13% of LGBTQ youth reported being subjected to conversion therapy, with 83% reporting it occurred when they were under age 18. Transgender and non-binary youth who reported having pronouns respected by all of the people they lived with attempted suicide at half the rate of those who did not have their pronouns respected by anyone with whom they lived. Trans and non-binary youth who were

able to change their name and/or gender marker on legal documents, such as driver’s licenses and birth certificates, reported lower rates of attempting suicide. LGBT youth who had access to spaces that affirmed their sexual orientation and gender identity reported lower rates of attempting suicide. An overwhelming majority of LGBTQ youth said that social media has both positive (96%) and negative (88%) impacts on their mental health and well-being. “The Trevor Project is the largest suicide prevention organization for LGBTQ youth, but even we do not know how many LGBTQ youth die by suicide each year because that data is simply not collected systematically,” Green said and added; “This third annual survey aims to fill the gaps in the limited research we do have on LGBTQ youth mental health and suicide risk as a means to raise public awareness and improve public health interventions.”

Read the full report by visiting thetrevorproject.org. Help is available for LGBT Youth on thetrevorproject.org as well. Washington Blade courtesy of the National LGBTQ Media Association.

ind-2879-SFGN-3-AD02-v04-r01-MECH.pdf

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NEWS LOCAL

LOCAL MAN NOW A ‘JEOPARDY’ CHAMPION Kevin Hirsh will use his earnings to pay for his dream wedding John Hayden

hat a difference a dollar makes. In a knowledge-nailbiter that went down to the very last moment, South Florida’s Kevin Hirsh became a “Jeopardy” champion. On the May 31 episode Kevin was leading after the first round and going into Final Jeopardy, but the reigning champion was close enough that Hirsh had to make a smart wager and know the response to the category Business of Television. While they both knew the answer, Hirsh bet just enough so he was ahead $25,201 to $25,200, just a dollar difference. Hirsh though got off to a slow start. The other contestants were ringing in and racking up big dollars in the opening moments, and the first time Hirsh rang in he was wrong and went to negative $200. From there he turned it around, ringing in 19 more times getting each one correct. That forced him to adjust his buzzer strategy midgame. “I think the first few clues I was trying to find my rhythm,” Hirsh said. “Initially my strategy was waiting for the clue to be finished and that wasn’t working out for me.” There were a couple of key moments in the game. One came when Kevin found the Daily Double in the first round. He wagered $2,000 and was correct. Another moment was when both of the

“I APPRECIATE THE FACT I WAS ABLE TO PROVIDE LGBTQ REPRESENTATION ON ‘JEOPARDY,’ ESPECIALLY AT THE BEGINNING OF PRIDE MONTH.” - Kevin Hirsch

• 6 . 3.2021

Kevin Hirsch. Credit: “Jeopardy!” Sony Pictures.

other contestants rang in and were wrong while he knew the correct response, boosting his total while their winnings went down, and Hirsh said he was in the zone. “I honestly didn’t even think about it in the moment,” he said. On his second night Hirsh was in another tight game and was in second place going into Final Jeopardy, and this time he was the one beaten by a dollar. “I know, crazy right?” Despite being a dollar short, Hirsh is proud of his time and is especially glad his episodes ran when they did. “I appreciate the fact I was able to provide LGBTQ representation on ‘Jeopardy,’ especially at the beginning of Pride month,” he said. “There’s no better time for me to be on.” Hirsh, who lives in the Wilton Manors area, is set to marry his fiancé Eric Scheiner in January and knows where the winnings are going. “All the money is going to the wedding,” he said. “It’s giving us the ability to have the wedding of our dreams.”

6 . 3. 20 21 •

NEWS LOCAL

LGBT ACTIVISTS RALLY AT PRIDE CENTER FOR

TRANS RIGHTS John Hayden

Joe Saunders, Senior Political Director of Equality Florida (at the podium), speaking to the crowd at the rally. Photo credit: Stephen Lang.

• 6 . 3.2021

NEWS LOCAL

drenching rain couldn’t douse the burning anger of South Florida’s LGBT community against a new law targeting trans youth.

Dozens huddled under umbrellas to rally against the measure that was signed into law on June 1, by Gov. Ron DeSantis. The bill prohibits transgender girls from playing on women’s and girls’ high school and collegiate teams. The rally was held outside the Pride Center at Equality Park in Wilton Manors. Local politicians and community activists took to the podium to denounce the law as discriminatory. The voices that resonated the most were young activists who came to speak for the people who can’t speak for themselves. One of them was Adriana Jean-Baptiste. “We’re thankful to represent a piece of something that’s so much bigger,” Jean-Baptiste said. “By [the law] simply just existing, it hurts them. This bill does not only limit transgender [people] in sports, but you don’t realize how sports can be an uplifting and empowering thing for trans youth. The fact that trans youth are not able to play limits their ability to live and say ‘I’m better than what people say I am.’” Despite losing this battle in Tallahassee, LGBT leaders pledged to fight on. Nereyda Luna says visibility is key to winning in the long run.

“A lot of folks who don’t have the privilege of being as visible as someone like myself or Adriana are hurt on multiple aspects,” Luna said. “They either don’t have the ability to come out or are not even in a safe position to express that they’re trans. They are unable to speak up for themselves.” Supporters of the new law are overwhelmingly Republican, and say this is simply about biology. Luna said it’s much more than that. “When you have a bunch of queer and trans youth who don’t have the space to explore themselves with the autonomy they should be able to have, their body, their sexual orientations and their gender identities, you have more bills like this inhibiting more youth from being able to step out and come into their truth and say that out to the world,” Luna said. “I think we represent youth in the best way possible,” JeanBaptiste said. “We can be at events and stand up and be a part of the conversation. Government officials and people that are older than us seem like they have the potential to understand what we go through. In reality, that’s not the case.” Some noted that DeSantis signed the bill into law June 1, the first day of Pride month, which they said is another slap in the face to the community.

SOME NOTED THAT DESANTIS SIGNED THE BILL INTO LAW JUNE 1, THE FIRST DAY OF PRIDE MONTH.

The weather was grim yet the rally stood strong, with some guests even filming. Photo credit: Stephen Lang.

A proud mother shared a message of her own at the rally. Photo credit: Stephen Lang.

“THE FACT THAT TRANS YOUTH ARE NOT ABLE TO PLAY LIMITS THEIR ABILITY TO LIVE AND SAY ‘I’M BETTER THAN WHAT PEOPLE SAY I AM.’” - Adriana Jean-Baptiste YOUTH ACTIVIST Senator Shevrin Jones. Photo credit: Stephen Lang. 6 . 3. 20 21 •

NEWS LOCAL Last year’s FLoatarama. Photo via FLoatarama, Facebook.

THE SECOND ANNUAL

FLOATARAMA SETS SAIL SOON Denise Royal

ort Lauderdale is about to set sail with One day after the Flotilla will be the Sailor’s Pride! The second annual FLoatarama T-Dance event at The Sanctuary Church will feature more than 40 boats ranging featuring DJ Matt Consola of SwishCraft, from 10 to 65 feet along with the New River. America’s largest LGBTQAI+ record label. This year’s events will center on “We hope hundreds will attend the Flotilla on Saturday, June the 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. outdoor “WE HOPE 12, with decorated boats. The T-Dance with multiple bars, HUNDREDS WILL boats will head down the New great music, and catching up River in Fort Lauderdale, ending with friends once again,” said ATTEND THE 4 P.M. in Sunrise Bay. Tickets will also Schramm. TO 8 P.M. OUTDOOR be available to participate in the Fort Lauderdale Mayor Dean T-DANCE WITH Flotilla on a donated doubleTrantalis will serve as Grand MULTIPLE BARS, decker Water Taxi. Marshal of the Flotilla. Tickets GREAT MUSIC, AND “With people starting to get for the water taxi are $25 and CATCHING UP WITH out more and feel comfortable, a cash bar will be serving up FRIENDS ONCE our two-day event has the cocktails along with a DJ as the perfect timing as the kickoff flotilla cruises past spectators. AGAIN.” event for the Fort Lauderdale Flotilla has grown from a - Scott Schramm Pride Season,” Organizer very small grassroots group of ORGANIZER Scott Schramm told SFGN. friends last year to a weekend “Thousands of supporters will of fun with the collaboration line the river and cheer from parks, and of so many volunteers, Pride Fort Lauderdale balcony’s as 40 decorated boats will cruise and generous benefactors, and sponsors. past with music and crews in true pride The fundraiser will support the Pride Fort fashion.” Lauderdale GED educational fund.

For more information, visit floatarama.com. 18

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NEWS STATE

Republished from the Sun Sentinel, a media partner of SFGN.

CITING BIOLOGY OVER IDEOLOGY, GOV. DESANTIS SIGNS TRANS ATHLETE BAN Skyler Swisher Sun Sentinel

Ron DeSantis. Photo via Facebook.

ov. Ron DeSantis signed a controversial ban on transgender athletes in girls’ and women’s sports on Tuesday, putting his signature on a contentious issue that has riled his conservative base. “It will ensure fairness for women athletes for years to come in the state of Florida ... We are going to go based off biology — not based on ideology,” DeSantis said at a news conference. DeSantis signed the ban at Trinity

“AT THE END OF THE DAY, TRANSGENDER KIDS ARE JUST KIDS.” - Shevrin Jones SENATOR

Christian Academy in Jacksonville on the first day of LGBT Pride Month. It also comes on the same day that Democratic Agriculture Commissioner Nikki Fried is expected to announce her bid for governor. DeSantis spoke at a lectern that featured a sign promoting the legislation as the “the Fairness in Women’s Sports Act.” The transgender athlete ban was included in a wide-ranging education bill, sparking opposition from LGBT groups and Democrats who viewed it as an attack on transgender youth. “This is yet another hate-driven attack from the governor and Republican legislators, and it’s insulting that they’ve staged this morning’s photo-op on the first day of Pride Month,” state Sen. Shevrin Jones, D-West Park, said in a prepared statement. “At the end of the day, transgender kids are just kids. They need to be heard, trusted, and supported.” The measure stipulates that female athletes’ eligibility for sports teams is contingent on their “biological sex” on birth certificates issued “at or near the time of the student’s birth.”

Skyler Swisher is a reporter covering politics. Before joining the Sun Sentinel, he wrote about health care for The Daytona Beach News-Journal. A native of Memphis, he is a graduate of the University of Tennessee.

• 6 . 3.2021

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news

COMPETE WITH BADASS RUNNERS AT THE PRIDE RUN 5K IN DELRAY BEACH Kendall Little LOOKING TO GET IN SHAPE WITH YOUR COMMUNITY? BADASS RUNNERS HAS JUST THE EVENT FOR YOU: THE PRIDE RUN 5K IN DELRAY BEACH.

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“The Pride Run 5K is Delray Beach’s first Pride Run 5K and what we hope will be an annual event,” Chief Badass of Badass Runners Steven Spitz said. The race is both virtual and in-person, giving runners the option to run on their own in a location of their choosing, or run with other participants in Delray Beach. “The Pride Run 5K is an in-person event but we do have a virtual option which means you simply do it anywhere and anytime and post it to our FB Badass Virtual Race group or you can easily use our Strava group,” Spitz said. “Both are optional as we will mail the medal to every registrant whether they prove their run or walk or not.” Badass Runners hosts a variety of different themed races, but Spitz wants the Pride Run 5K to be an opportunity for the LGBT community and allies to come together. “We aim to have this event be 100% inclusive and hope that those in and outside the LGBTQ community attend,” he said. “We are thrilled to have Compass Community Center, one of South Florida’s largest communities who helps thousands of people in the LGBTQ community with a vast number of programs.” Participants can sign up for the Pride Run 5K until June 12, which is the day before the event. The event will take place June 13 at Batch Gastropub in Delray Beach. Runners must be at the starting line at 8:40 a.m. to compete. “To clarify, about 30% of our community are walkers so no excuses, you can walk your 5K too!” Spitz added. Participants will receive more than a medal at the event. According to the Badass Runners website, runners and walkers will be able to grab free water bottles, a full color custom race bib, a free finisher’s beer or mimosa, B-12 shots, and an opportunity to meet fellow runners within the community. As for COVID precautions, the event is

Photo via Badass Runners, Facebook.

following the Palm Beach County guidelines. “Most restrictions are lifted so we no longer require masks in our outdoor finisher’s area,” Spitz said. “Note that our entire event, both the running and walking aspect and the finisher’s area, compete with over 16 partners providing sweepstakes and services, is outdoors.” Even after the Pride Run 5K is over, Badass Runners offers different themed races for runners and walkers to participate in year-round. “We are an international community of runners so whether you opt for one of our many virtual races or do an in-person event there’s plenty of opportunity online or in-person to interact with others in the community,” Spitz said. “We even have a Fitness Events tab on our website at BadassRunners.com that people can subscribe to and get updates as events come out.” Though it was challenging to stay active during the pandemic, Badass Runners is here to help people get back into shape one race at a time. “Our mission is to create a healthier world through fun, fitness, and charity. Every event is themed to make it fun, every event requires a finish on the part of the participant and each event connects to charity,” Spitz said. “Running is a phenomenal way of getting exercise whether on the trail, the road or treadmill but we think walking is also a great form of exercise.”

straight facts, gay news. sfgn is also available in the lake worth, boynton beach, and delray tri-rail stations.

• 6 . 3.2021

To sign up for the Pride Run 5K, visit BadassRunners.com and select the Pride Run 5K tab.

COMMUNITY ANNOUNCEMENT

OUT NOW! S O U T H

F L O R I D A

G A Y

N E W S

Tom Myers, Chief of Public Affairs and General Counsel at AHF. Photo courtesy of AHF.

SFGN Staff

MONEY ISSUE

THE

AHF SALUTES BIDEN ADMINISTRATION FOR ORDERING DRUG PRICE DISCOUNTS

YOUR GUIDE TO GAY FINANCIAL SUCCESS

HRSA singles out AstraZeneca, Eli Lilly, Novartis, Novo Nordisk, Sanofi and United Therapeutics for being in direct violation of the statute establishing the 340B program by illegally denying discounts on prescription drugs to nonprofit clinics and hospitals.

FIND IT AT A RED BOX NEAR YOU

he AIDS Healthcare Foundation has severely stressed by a system that enriches the published a statement commending for-profit pharmaceutical industry.” the Biden administration for holding As reported in a Politico Pro Health Care “shameless, greedy drug companies report discussing the administration’s action accountable for illegally denying price yesterday to rein in the rogue drug companies, discounts on prescription writing: “HHS set a June 1 drugs to nonprofit clinics and deadline for the drugmakers to THE LETTERS hospitals because they were resume payments to contract using contract pharmacies.” pharmacies participating in the ADVISED THE In its press release last 340B discount program, which COMPANIES week, Ged Kensela, the AHF helps people with low incomes “THAT THEY spokesperson, lauded the U.S. access medications. Under Health Resources Services 340B, some hospitals lacking ARE IN DIRECT Administration for sending six in-house pharmacies contract VIOLATION OF letters informing AstraZeneca, with outside firms to dispense Eli Lilly, Novartis, Novo medicines on their behalf — and THE STATUTE Nordisk, Sanofi and United the pharmaceutical industry ESTABLISHING Therapeutics their practices has long been unhappy that THE 340B were unacceptable. The letters discounts have been extended to advised the companies “that those companies.” DRUG PRICING they are in direct violation of the Myers went on to say that PROGRAM.” statute establishing the 340B “the pharmaceutical industry Drug Pricing Program.” tries every day to strangle these “Thousands of non-profit providers depend efforts. However, the war is not over. We hope on the 340B program to keep their doors open the administration takes the battle to other to serve vulnerable populations. said Tom 340B predators, such as pharmacy benefit Myers , General Counsel and Chief of Public managers and private insurance companies Affairs for AHF. He added “340B costs taxpayers that are trying to steal the 340B benefits that nothing and stretches federal programs that support safety net clinics and rural hospitals.” strengthen the healthcare safety net, already

6 . 3. 20 21 •

CONVICTIONS

Trans Talk

PART III:

TRANS EXISTENCE IS RADICAL. TRANS JOY IS REVOLUTIONARY. Atticus Ranck

ust because I value different things now than when I first started out in the workforce, doesn’t mean I’ve given up on my dreams. I still want to write a memoir. I’ve got it outlined and ready to go, but my own fear and doubt keeps me from moving forward. I’m not perfect and my life certainly isn’t. Sometimes, because my dreams and values have changed over time, I feel like I’m not doing enough for my community anymore. How can I be more involved? How can I give of my time and my resources? I’ll never stop trying to make the world a better place for my LGBT family. I didn’t know a single non-heterosexual, non-cisgender person until I went to college. And suddenly, there were lesbians everywhere! I was in heaven. But I don’t want that experience for other young people. I don’t want them to feel alone. When I think that I’m not doing enough anymore, like I’ve settled into this comfortable place, I remember that my existence is radical and my happiness — that’s revolutionary. When 27% of trans young people have attempted to commit suicide and 89% have thought about it, it is revolutionary to be alive and trans. When 40% of homeless youth identify as LGBT, in part because of an unsupportive and unhealthy family environment, it is revolutionary to have a good relationship with your family and be trans. When 29% of trans people are living in poverty, and the statistics are significantly worse for trans people of color, it is revolutionary to make a good salary as a trans person. When LGBT people are less likely to be homeowners than cisgender heterosexual people of comparable demographics, and for LGBT people who want to be homeowners but worry they’ll be discriminated against in the buying process, it is revolutionary to own a home and be trans. It is revolutionary to be happy while trans. Yet here I am. My happiness looks like watching our two puppies run around our property. It’s a cup of coffee on a

I’M STILL LEARNING THAT I DON’T NEED TO BE THE BEST OR THE BRIGHTEST OR EARN THE MOST MONEY TO BE WORTHY OF LOVE.

• 6 . 3.2021

Photo via Pixabay.

Saturday morning on the couch with my wife while watching “This Old House.” It’s preparing a meal for my family. Happiness is fixing up our house. What does your version of happiness look like? I’m still learning that I don’t need to be the best or the brightest or earn the most money to be worthy of love. I learned that when I lost my job. I’m still learning that my worth as a human is not intrinsically tied to my salary or my ability to be a productive member of society. I’m still learning that it’s OK to not be liked by everyone. I’m still learning that just existing as a human who

is trans is radical — just going about my daily life, the grocery store, paying bills, having friends, being open about my identity — this is radical. In a world that’s not made for us, that tells us we don’t want you in our restrooms, we don’t want you in our workplace, we don’t want you playing sports, we don’t want you succeeding — I’m a happy trans person, which is the biggest F you I can think of to our society. We exist and it is revolutionary. Don’t be too hard on yourself if you feel like you aren’t doing enough, you aren’t successful enough, you aren’t worthy, or you don’t deserve a beautiful life. You are worthy. You are deserving. You are beautiful. Being happy about your existence is the best form of advocacy I can think of.

Atticus Ranck (he/him/his pronouns) works in the Education and Training Program of the AIDS Institute for the New York State Department of Health. Atticus identifies as a trans man and he is married to a trans woman. Together, they are raising two puppies and a cat and happily live in rural upstate NY. Previously, he was the Director of Transgender Services at SunServe in Wilton Manors.

CONVICTIONS

EDITORIAL CARTOON By Mike Luckovich

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Jesse’s Journal

CONVICTIONS

DAVIDE DURRELL MCGONIGLE Song Stylist and Demisexual

Jesse Monteagudo

song stylist is a singer with a distinctive or original style. Fort Lauderdale’s own Davide [pronounced Dah-ví-day] Durrell McGonigle has expressed his love for the art for decades, doing commercials, theater, television, film and even some nude modeling. He also established himself as a hair stylist to the stars and was a co-owner of Another Look Salon in Coral Springs. In the words of Jack Lynn magazine, “his work with hair has always been a way to connect with people and make them feel better about themselves.” “I am an entertainer,” Davide tells me, “a singer, dancer, actor, and comedian.” After humble beginnings in community theater, he landed the leading role (1985) in a Baltimore production of “Pippin,” where he caught the attention of then-president Ronald Reagan. He was a member of the National Association of Unknown Players (1986) and, as Davide

Durrell, he was a contestant on “Star Search” and a bit player in “Homicide: Life on the Street” with Andre Broughner and “The Replacements” with Keanu Reeves. “I had my own show [in 1998 and 1999] at Holt Park that brought in their largest audience in the history of shows performed at the amphitheater at that time.” He recorded three albums and was featured in Jack Lynn, where he became (at 60) the oldest male nude centerfold model in the history of that online magazine. A Fort Lauderdale resident since 2003, Davide performs at Hunter’s night club and other local venues. In his new DVD album collection, available free on YouTube, Davide Durrell sings about “My DemiSexuality.” Demisexuality is a sexual orientation where people only experience sexual attraction to folks that they have close emotional connections with. In other words, demisexual people only experience sexual attraction after

SADLY, AMIDST HIS TRIUMPHS, DAVIDE HAS HAD TO DEAL WITH “MULTIPLE DISABLING LIFE-CHANGING ILLNESSES.”

Davide Durrell Singing at Hunters. Photo credit: Davide Durrell McGonigle.

an emotional bond has formed. They can be gay, straight, bisexual, or pansexual, and may have any gender identity. In “My DemiSexuality” Davide Durrell tells “the story of my life. My existence. All that makes me tick: Love, Compassion, Desire, Decency, DemiSexuality and a passion to express myself through my own music.” Sadly, amidst his triumphs, Davide has had to deal with “multiple disabling life-changing illnesses.” A breast cancer survivor, he had two radical bilateral mastectomies which, he says, “affects your life in ways few can understand. How you deal with the illness

on a physical way and in an emotional way. It affected me enormously on how to proceed with my sexual desires and reactions to be touched and treated.” In “My Life in Pain,” a Facebook post, McGonigle lists his life-long struggle with various illnesses. “After two failed heart surgeries, the surgeon informed me he can no longer help me. I have broken my leg three times in a year. I am beyond insanely weak now. I ask for prayers.” We sincerely wish him well. Meanwhile, Davide Durrell McGonigle continues to delight us with his personality and with his talent. May he be with us for a long time.

For samples of Davide’s songs and nude modeling visit davidemcgonigle.wixsite.com/davide-durrell.

“Davide Durrell: My Demisexuality.” Photo credit: Davide Durrell McGonigle.

• 6 . 3.2021

Jesse Monteagudo is a freelance writer and journalist. He has been an active member of South Florida's LGBT community for more than four decades and has served in various community organizations.

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Church of Our Savior, MCC 2011 s. Federal Hwy., Boynton Beach, FL 561-733-4000 www,churchofoursaviormcc.org

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Until further notice: Due to the current COVID-19 pandemic, our worship services are streamed on Facebook Live every Sunday at 10 AM, rather than held at our church property. https://www.facebook.com/ ChurchofOurSaviorMCC. Visit our web site for more details & updates.

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A home for your spirit. Mass Schedule: Sabado 6:00 PM misa en español • Sunday Mass at 11 AM in English • All are welcome!

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LISTINGS CONGREGATION ETZ CHAIM 2038 N. Dixie Hwy (Pride Center Building B), Wilton Manors 954-564-9232 - etzchaimflorida.org RabbiNoahKitty@etzchaimflorida.org Friday Night Shabbat Service 8p.m. HOLY ANGELS CATHOLIC COMMUNITY 1436 NE 26th St Wilton Manors, FL 33305 954-633-2987 - HolyAngelsFL.net Sunday Mass at 11AM

CHURCH OF OUR SAVIOR, MCC Church of Our Savior, MCC 2011 S. Federal Hwy. Boynton Beach. churchofoursaviormcc.org | 561-733-4000 Sunday Service 10AM TEMPLE BAT YAM 5151 NE 14th Ter Fort Lauderdale, FL 33334 954-928-0410 Friday Night & Saturday Morning Streaming Online at templebatyam.org

6 . 3. 20 21 •

LIFESTYLE CELEBRITY

BY ELLIOT RODRIGUEZ

GAY VINE THE

KEEP UP WITH THE CELEBRITIES IN OUR COMMUNITY

FILM

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OUTLOUD MUSIC FESTIVAL SET FOR EARLY JUNE

BISEXUAL SUPERGIRL?

With the new “Flash” movie on the way, fans can’t help but think about another character’s debut. If you guessed Supergirl, you’re right! With the solo “Flash” movie premiering on November 4, 2022, fans cannot stop talking about whether Supergirl is going to be bisexual or not. This popular character has waited far too long to debut, and now her time has come. Only thing is we don’t know too much about the character. It best to take this information with a grain of salt as Pride mentions. “It’s worth pointing out really not much else is known about the character at this point in time, and how involved she’s even going to be in the final edit of the film … especially when you consider

Flash and Supergirl. Credit: The CW Network.

how so many big, box-office superhero films give queer characters blink-andyou’ll-miss-it moments when it comes to their sexualities and love lives,” Pride writes.

With COVID-19 dwindling down, certain states have started to open up venues again, such as music festivals and clubs. Over in California they’re kicking things off with a bang thanks to “The OUTLOUD: Raising Voices Music Festival.” This LGBT music festival will be headlined by Sofi Tukker, Hayley Kiyoko and Superstar Adam Lambert. Not only is he headlining the festival, but Lambert also curated the performers list, Pride reported. According to the website, “OUTLOUD: RAISING VOICES’’ launched in 2020 as a 10-episodic series on Facebook in lieu of Pride celebrations happening in cities across the country due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Its success during the pandemic gave it

Adam Lambert is one of the headliners. Photo via Facebook.

multiple awards including a Shorty award. Lambert wrote in an Instagram post, “I really wanted to curate an event for Stonewall Day that was about queer performers, and was centered around the community.” The festival will go on from June 4 to June 6.

ANIMATION

HEART-POUNDING! ‘SK8 THE INFINITY’ - THE MUST-SEE LGBT ANIME

Anime fans searching for a show that stars LGBT main characters, the search is over. “Sk8 the Infinity” is filled with action-packed skate scenes and heartwarming romance. The new anime attracted a large LGBT fanbase according to Pride, due to its not only intriguing cast of main characters, but its side characters as well. Howard Wang plays one of the main characters, Langa, in the English dub. Wang has been influenced by anime since high school, he told Pride, but took a different career path in the beginning. “I got my degree in game development and did that as my path because I never thought that acting would be a viable career because it’s so

• 6 . 3.2021

hard to get into and hard to make a sustainable living off of it … So just with the events that unfolded, I was able to coincidentally go to Texas for a summer in Dallas, where FUNimation is, and just was lucky enough to get my foot in there. And I guess the rest is history,” Wang told Pride in an interview. “Sk8 the Infinity” is currently sitting at one season at the moment, but with all the buzz around the show, the second season is set for winter of 2023. Wang does want to see one particular change to the show in its sophomore year. “I hope they snowboard. I hope they go somewhere. Either they go to Mt. Fuji or something, they go somewhere where they can snowboard,” Wang said.

“Sk8 the Infinity.” Image credit: Studio Bones.

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elina Tran has always been a fan of literature. During the pandemic, she wanted to find a way to combine her love for books and newfound candle making skills, so she created Wax and Words. The business offers book-inspired candles and wax melts such as Ardently Admire, a “Pride and Prejudice” themed candle that smells like blackberry and peony, with undertones of red apple, rose, jasmine, violet, plum, musk, dry amber and blackcurrant, according to the Etsy description. “I love love love my sea breeze scented Odyssey candle!” Tran said. “It smells amazing, but I’ve always loved the sea, and my mother introduced me to Greek mythology early on, so that one holds a special place in my heart.” Though her business is new, Tran has many goals for the future. “I’m hoping to grow my social media to make my little online shop more popular. Hopefully when the income from it is more stable, I’ll be able to make my products more accessible as well!” she said. “I’d also love to have a more stable income so I could work on more eco-friendly packaging, as it can be quite expensive if I want to keep my prices low.” As of now, Wax and Words offers candles at $13.28 and wax melts anywhere from $4 to $6. “[The purpose of my business is] to create lovely, homemade candles for little book nooks, but also to maybe encourage reading more,” Tran said. “I’ve had more time to read because of the pandemic, so it’s been nice being able to make my private leisure space

IT’S ABOUT LOVE On May 29, Arts United hosted the art exhibition, “It’s About Love,” at Art Gallery 21, who partnered with them for the event. The event was made possible thanks to a grant from Our Fund. Pictured here is the artist Ernesto Masis, whose artwork “Dreadlocked Sailor” was awarded Best In Show. Photo credit: J.R. Davis. To see more, visit SFGN on Facebook.

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“Little Women.” Photo via @WaxnWord, Instagram.

even cozier, which is also something I’d love for other bookworms.” Running a small business isn’t always smooth sailing. “It’s been hard to start off. Sales don’t just come out of nowhere, and it’s been hard to promote my small business,” Tran said. Though Wax and Words has been challenging, it doesn’t come without rewards. “I love the personal relationship I create with customers, but also the flexibility,” Tran shared. Being able to combine literature and candle making has been a dream for the bisexual business owner.

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LIFESTYLE TWO GUYS AND A DOG

WHO CAN MARCH IN OUR PRIDE PARADES? Brian McNaught

he memory is indelible. A handful of gay Pride marchers in 1982 yelled out to me that I was a “Tom” for standing with police Lieutenant Don Devine on the street corner as they walked past. I was, at the time, the Mayor of Boston’s Liaison to the Gay and Lesbian Community. (The BT&Q were added later.) I was there to guarantee their safety. Lt. Devine was a 50-something straight, Irish Catholic man with a wife and kids. I had lobbied Mayor Kevin White and Police Commissioner Joe Jordan to create the position of Police Liaison to the Gay and Lesbian Community. The tall, imposing, but kindly police lieutenant was comfortable enough in his identity that he readily accepted the assignment, despite the teasing he knew he’d receive from his fellow officers. His job, like mine, was to guarantee that gay and lesbian citizens had full and equal access to city services. Photo via Adobe. A couple of years before, anti-gay people threw cherry bombs into our parade as we marched past the golden dome of the State House. We depended on the police to protect us, They interpreted my faith as an endorsement of everything Many of them made great personal sacrifices to get the attention and support of their CEOs. and I was comforted by the sight of them standing post at bad the Catholic Church had ever done. I’ve come to understand that we can’t control, or In my first Pride parade in Detroit in 1974, we had so few each street intersection. sometimes even comprehend, why people react to us the marchers that we had to stay on the sidewalks, and wait for I knew they were uncomfortable. Homosexuality, then, was far less understood and accepted way they do. Everyone has a story that, if told, helps us the green light to cross the street. As we grew in numbers in in the U.S. than it is today. But, the officers chased down understand, though not excuse their behavior toward Boston, we chanted, “Off the sidewalks and into the street.” us. Some LGBT people, because of their We wanted all of the gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender, the hecklers and stopped them from further commitment to non-violence, strongly and queer people who stood on the sidelines watching the attempts at intimidating us. They also kept at opposed efforts to open the military to gay parade to join us in the march, and to feel the power of selfONCE A bay the Fundamentalist Christians and their and transgender service members. Some of affirmation and community inclusion. massive banners proclaiming “God Hates Fags.” PERSON FINDS these same individuals, and others, opposed Today, across the country, hundreds of thousands of When gay and lesbian police officers started THE COURAGE working for marriage equality, as they saw it people from all walks of life have boldly stepped off the marching as a group in the Boston Gay Pride affirming the outdated heterosexual form of sidewalk and into the street to participate in their own parade, it made me feel very proud of, and AND STRENGTH control, and of patriarchy. I get it. I disagree, liberation. I can remember from my first few marches the grateful to them. Because of my time training TO MAKE SUCH but I get it. fear, the excitement, the sense of belonging I had in a new police recruits on LGBT issues, I knew how I also get why some lesbian, gay, bisexual, life, in a new community, but also of no longer feeling I intimidating it was to come out in the police or A LEAP OF transgender, queer and other people hate belonged in my old life when I stepped into the street. Once fire departments. You literally risked your life FAITH, I BELIEVE seeing corporate banners in our Pride a person finds the courage and strength to make such a leap if your fellow officers chose not to back you up parades. They feel we’ve been co-opted, of faith, I believe they ought to always feel safe and at home in a threatening situation because they were THEY OUGHT TO that our defiant marches in the cause of there. No one should call them “Tom,” and no one should turned off by your “lifestyle choice.” ALWAYS FEEL liberation have been co-opted as huge, free say they’re no longer welcome to march because of their I feel the same pride today, as I did decades advertisements for oppressive institutions. religion, their politics, their job, their past, or their comfort ago, when I see Pride marchers in Roman SAFE AND AT Having worked for 30-plus years level with every component of the LGBT community. collars, military, police, and fire department HOME THERE. with LGBT employees, I have a different One of the things that makes me most proud of my tribe uniforms, and under corporate banners. While perspective on the corporate banners in our is our long history of inclusiveness. We have always worked the sight of these individuals marching in a Pride parade might upset some people, I believe they confirm parades. I see them as grand affirmations of the hard work hard at being a family for everyone. Oftentimes, we have had to stretch beyond our comfort for us, and for the rest of the world, that we lesbian, gay, that has been done in each of the participating companies bisexual, transgender, and queer people come from every to raise consciousness on the discrimination we face, and zone to embrace that which we didn’t fully understand. We walk of life. Their bold presence also states clearly that we’re on the unique value that we bring to the table. The LGBT did so because of our trial-by-fire awareness of how it feels to secure enough in ourselves that we’re willing to take whatever employee Pride marchers are the front line veterans of the be left out, unwelcome, unfairly judged, and misunderstood. pushback we get from straight people. But, we don’t expect battles fought and won in corporate America to create safe That doesn’t mean we all have to become friends, or agree on workplaces in which they and others could come out without every issue. It just means there’s plenty of room on the street pushback from our own community. While it hurt my feelings, and made me angry to be so fearing harassment, or loss of employment opportunities. for us all. harshly judged by the handful of Fag Rag marchers in 1982, particularly since I had devoted my life to the health and safety of my tribe, I understood that they interpreted my Brian McNaught has been a leading educator on LGBTQ issues globally since 1974. He has made his standing with Lt. Devine as my endorsement of the bad many books and DVDs available for free at Brian-McNaught.com. The New York Times named him “The behavior of all police officers. These same people distrusted Godfather of gay diversity training.” Brian has a weekly YouTube/FaceBook podcast called, “Are You me because I was a member of Dignity, the gay Catholic group.

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SIDE DISHES

LIFESTYLE FOOD

Some foodie news you can digest

Rick Karlin

ometimes, there’s so much news coming across my desk that I just have to share the info to clear some space.

Of course, the big news is that HAMBURGER MARY’S is coming (back) to Wilton Manors. It’s moving into the old Rumors location, 2426 Wilton Dr., directly across the street from Rosie’s, which used to be a Hamburger Mary’s. Drama much? BOMBAY CAFÉ, the landmark Indian restaurant on Andrews Avenue has moved east to 1672 E. Oakland Park Blvd., replacing the former Inkanto Peruvian Cuisine. Call 954-568-0600 or go to Bombay-Cafe.com for more information. ANDREW’S DINER, after changing management twice in the past year, is picking up and moving to Cypress Creek, where it will replace the former Duffy’s Diner (925 NE 62nd St). Despite its name the new cocktail parlor and lounge, NO MAN’S LAND, is not a lesbian spot. Restaurateur Memphis Garrett’s new space at 666 N. Federal will offer a limited menu of small shareable plate dishes. For more info, go to NoMansLandFTL.com.

FOXY BROWN’S has moved to 476 N. Federal, formerly home to Good Spirits. It’s a larger space with more parking, a bigger bar, and a larger outdoor patio. It will continue with its popular brunch from 9:30 a.m. to 3 p.m., and the traditional menu from 3 to 10 p.m. It’s hard to believe that BATCH, the artisanal cookie store at 917 NE 5th Ave., has been open almost a year and a half. Even more surprising that it took me that long to find it. Located in the Flagler Arts District, it’s a small storefront operation making small batch recipes of classics and new creations. TASTE OF MIAMI, the much-anticipated COVIDrelief cookbook, is now available featuring 50 recipes provided by some of Miami’s favorite restaurants. Celebrity Chef Yisus from Univision Network donated his time to prepare each dish on camera and assist in organizing the recipes. The hip and colorful book offers an array of Miami staples that people have come to know and love. The recipes in the book are the most popular dishes

The Pride Box at Wunderkeks. Photo courtesy of Rick Karlin. that people order in Miami area restaurants, such as the Cap’n Crunch pancakes from EATING HOUSE, green curried mussels by PHUC YEA, lomo saltado from 33 Kitchen, rabo encendido from FINKA TABLE & TAP, and Abuela’s ham & chorizo Cuban macaroni from SERGIO’S RESTAURANT, among many others.

what it means to unconditionally love and support the LGBT community. During the entire month of June for Pride, Wunderkeks plans to raise $30k for Loveloud’s charities through cookie sales. Cookies may be ordered online at wunderkeks. com/pride-box/. They would make a wonderful hostess gift for a Pride brunch!

Eateries that have been struggling through this pandemic will receive 100% of the profits. A digital version is available for $24.99 and a hardcover for $34.99 at https://www.cookbook.miami/.

Now that we’re all vaxed and relaxed, you can stop in at BONA ITALIAN’S new APERITIVO LOUNGE. On Thursday, June 10, enjoy the music of multi-award-winning jazz duo Davis and Dow. From the Great American songbook to Brazil and beyond, Kelly Dow’s guitar playing is simply orchestral in support while Julie Davis sings as though she learned in her bassinet. Thursday, June 10, 4:30-7:30, reservations are necessary. Call 954-565-7222.

WUNDERKEKS, a queer-owned online cookie bakery based in Austin, announced its collaboration with The Loveloud Foundation, founded by Dan Reynolds, lead singer of Imagine Dragons. Its aim is to ignite the conversation about

HUNGRY FOR MORE? 

A peek at some scrumptious bites at Bona Italian’s new Apertivo Lounge. Photo via Facebook.

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• 6 . 3.2021

VISIT SFGN.COM/FOOD!

Rick Karlin is SFGN’s food editor. Visit SFGN.com/Food to read his previous reviews. Have a culinary tip to share? Email Rick at RickKarlinFL@gmail.com.

‘DRAG RACE’ GOTTMIK READY TO TAKE ON THE WORLD AFTER DESTROYING THE ‘CIS-TEM’ Read SFGN.com to find out more.

6 . 3. 20 21 •

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ARTSBEAT LOCAL OFFICERS FIGHT DOMESTIC VIOLENCE J.W. Arnold FLPD, BSO JOIN INTERNATIONAL CAMPAIGN The new city parking garage on Fort Lauderdale Beach at Las Olas Blvd. was illuminated in rainbow colors on May 28 as part of international observances of LGBTQ Domestic Violence Awareness Day. The campaign began in Australia and this year was recognized for the first time in the U.S., United Kingdom, Canada, Ireland, Denmark, Sweden and the Netherlands. Fort Lauderdale Police Dept. Captain Bill Schultz and Broward Sheriff’s Office Lt. Paul Auerbach led efforts by their agencies to call attention to domestic violence in the local LGBT community. Several officers and deputies attended the official observance at the garage. “We look forward to our annual participation in calling awareness to this important and often overlooked issue,” said Capt. Schultz. For more information, go to DVAFoundation.org.

DRAMAWORKS SHINES SPOTLIGHT ON MCKEEVER

AND WE’RE STILL HERE FOR YOU NOW.

To celebrate Pride Month, Palm Beach Dramaworks (PBD), 201 Clematis St. in West Palm Beach, is offering free live readings of plays written by South Florida playwright Michael McKeever. Beginning June 7, the award-winning theater will present three of McKeever’s plays on three consecutive Monday evenings, followed each Wednesday with a discussion of the work by theater professionals and community leaders. McKeever has written 30 full-length plays that have been produced at theaters around the world, including Penguin Rep, Marin Theatre Company, NCTC, Phoenix Theatre, Stage West, and Florida Studio Theatre, as well as in Berlin, Warsaw, and Vienna. His play “Daniel’s Husband,” produced in New York by Primary Stages, was nominated for an Off-Broadway Alliance Award for Best New Work and went on to successful runs at the Westside Theatre Off-Broadway and the Fountain Theatre in Los Angeles. The series will open with “The Garden of Hannah List,” followed by “The Code” on June 14 and the Carbonell Award-winning “Daniel’s Husband” June 21. The discussions on Wednesdays, June 9, 16 and 23 will be moderated by PBD Director of Education and Community Engagement Gary Cadwallader. For more information and to reserve seats, go to PalmBeachDramaworks.org.

IT’S A ‘PARTY’ AT THE FOUNDRY

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• 6 . 3.2021

Relive the glory days of youth with a group of Manhattan friends in David Dillon’s hit Off Broadway comedy, “Party,” running through July 11 at the Foundry at Wilton Theater Factory, 2306 N. Dixie Hwy. in Wilton Manors. An innocent game of “Facts and Fantasies,” a variation of “Truth or Dare,” has six gay guys revealing all before the night is over. Playwright Dillon said his comedy is “not about flesh, but celebrates the fact that, as a group, we are positive and honest about our sexuality and free from a lot of the inhibitions and hang ups that exist in other groups.” Performances are Wednesday – Saturday at 8 p.m. and Sunday at 4 p.m. Tickets start at $35 at RonnieLarsen.com.

A&E THEATER

PLAYWRIGHT TALKS ‘BRIGHT COLORS AND BOLD PATTERNS’ J.W. Arnold

hat do you do when you receive an invitation to a wedding that clearly instructs guests to “please refrain from bright colors and bold patterns?” Playwright Drew Droege wrote a show. “This was a real invitation to a straight wedding from a friend who was a control freak and wanted a ‘desert palette’,” recalled Droege. “As I was driving to Palm Springs, I began wondering what the context would be as a gay man attending a gay wedding. In the wake of marriage equality, I wanted to question within our community why we feel like we have to stick to the models our parents set up.” The result was “Bright Colors and Bold Patterns,” which will receive its Florida premiere June 4 – 20 at Island City Stage in Wilton Manors. In Droege’s retelling, Gerry is a middleaged gay man who arrives in Palm Springs on the night before a gay wedding. Gerry is nonplussed about the directions in the invitation to restrain his wardrobe and the evening soon devolves into a drunken, drugfueled riot. If the plot seems charged, Droege is quick to point out the one-man show is a comedy. Gerry is a bit frazzled in the moment, working out his issues – “mainly assimilation and the scrubbing of queer identity.” Gerry is just one of the distinct characters the 44-year-old North Carolina native has created and staged. A veteran performer, he explored improv after moving to Los Angeles and his writing eventually led to some writing gigs for television. “I’ve mainly written solo shows for myself,” he explained. “I wrote this part because I still don’t see big, loud messy gay nightmares on TV or on stage. I wanted to write a character you could spend some time with and see the pain, the frustration, the love in him, all the layers.” While Droege acknowledges the continued presence of stereotypical queer characters on stage and screen, “every gay character now has to be such a hero – decent, which I think is great – but I miss the fun of a lot of gay characters. I wanted to play somebody who was more complicated than that and

Playwright Drew Droege also starred in early productions of his comedy, “Bright Colors and Bold Patterns.” Credit: Russ Rowland.

maybe didn’t fit in within the gay community itself. Gerry is not perfect.” It has been years since Droege handed Gerry over to other actors and he’s okay with that. His latest one-man show, “Happy Birthday, Doug,” was in the midst of a successful run in New York City when theaters were suddenly shuttered. “I came back to L.A. and sat on my couch like the rest of the world. I got to take a break and reflect on who I am and what I wanted … and reminded myself to be grateful to be alive. I’m ready to get back to work and in the theater. I miss seeing theater as much as doing it. I’m focused on creating projects that matter to me on some level and focusing on the people in my life,” he said. As theaters begin to reopen, he’s also glad his plays will allow small companies like Island City to offer one-man shows and ease audiences back indoors. He quipped, “Obviously, eight years ago I didn’t think if there’s a pandemic, this will be easy to mount. But, it works.”

Island City Stage, 2304 N. Dixie Hwy. in Wilton Manors, presents Drew Droege’s “Bright Colors and Bold Patterns,” June 4 – 20. Social distancing will be observed and masks required. The production will also be filmed for on-demand viewing at a later date. Tickets are $35 at IslandCityStage.org.

It Is Time to Sing! AUDITIONS JUNE 19TH www.gmcsf.org/auditions

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FEATURE PETS

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Adorable Laiken (ID 642589) can’t wait to meet you at the Humane Society of Broward County. This sweetheart is just over a year old and 42 pounds of sweetness. She loves to be with people and may jump up to get some pets from you. She is a pintsized buddle of love. Laiken enjoys going for leisurely walks and would love a snuggly bed to sleep in and a family to call her own. She arrived with her trio of pups and of course they were quickly adopted. Can you give Laiken the loving home she deserves?

If you would like to meet a pet at the Humane Society of Broward County, please visit www.humanebroward.com to complete a pre-adoption application. Visit www.humanebroward.com to learn more or call 954-989-3977 ext. 6. Appointments are not necessary for the vaccine clinic which is open Monday — Friday 9 AM — 4:30 PM credit cards only. The banners rotate so click on the one that says COVID-19 update adoptions and essential services update and scroll down a little bit. There you will find an application for adoption and other pertinent information. Complete the application (even if you have adopted before) and submit it. Adoptions are being done by appointment only now. For more information call 954-989-3977 ext. 6. FACE MASKS ARE REQUIRED WHEN COMING TO THE SHELTER.

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skin care HAIR REMOVAL - Professional male esthetician providing hair removal services for men and women. I specialize in male body grooming and Brazilian waxing. I can either trim, shave, wax or sugar. I have a private studio where I also do specialty facials which include back and buttocks facials. Come treat yourself for a relaxing facial and get silky smooth skin at the same time. Check out my website for more info. www.waxiitaxi.com or you can book online at WaxiiTaxi.Booksy.com IG: @waxiitaxi Facebook.com/waxiitaxi. Kurt Ruback: 561-956-0626

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ACCOUNTING@STERLINGACCOUNTING.COM 2435 North Dixie Highway • Wilton Manors, FL 33305

6 . 3. 20 21 •

Free COVID-19 vaccinations (Pfizer) are available at DOH-Broward locations for individuals 12 and over. No appointment necessary and no insurance required! Please visit GetVaccinated.Broward.org for locations and hours of operation.