SFGN 4/27/23 V14iss17

EQUALITY FLORIDA FLORIDA BEING ‘HELD HOSTAGE’ BY DESANTIS

In a roundtable conversation with the Human Rights Campaign and Equality Florida, on April 19, advocates, teachers and parents say that the Florida legislature is creating an atmosphere of fear in schools and for families. This is thanks to bans on transgender healthcare, attacks on drag queens, “Don’t Say Gay,” and the nearly two dozen anti-LGBT laws filed in Tallahassee — so much so that Equality Florida put out a travel advisory saying that Florida is not safe for LGBT visitors.

“We have to be very real and honest with ourselves in this moment: Florida is being held hostage by the political ambitions and political hubris of Ron DeSantis,” said Joe Saunders, the senior political director at Equality Florida. “DeSantis believes that he can punch down on us and pave a path to the presidency on our backs.”

The roundtable was hosted at First Presbyterian Church in Tallahassee and live streamed via Facebook.

The Republican-controlled Congress in Florida has proposed laws such as HB1423, which seeks to ban drag shows where children might be exposed to them in restaurants, bars, or other venues. Before his death, SFGN co-founder Norm Kent planned to sue DeSantis over the state’s attacks on drag queens, saying it violated their First Amendment rights. While the bill does not specifically mention drag queens, the same way that the Parental Rights in Education Bill doesn’t say “gay,” the message has been sent loud and clear to the LGBT community.

Saunders said that these bills are weaponizing Florida groups. In March, the Florida Boards of Medicine and Osteopathic Medicine banned treatment of gender dysphoria in youth; something doctors can now lose their license over. Muti Sekhem, a community organizer and

the father of a trans teen, who also participated in the roundtable, said he found it interesting that DeSantis pushed for parental rights during COVID but is now backtracking.

“When it comes down to my transgender kid and how we get healthcare, it’s suddenly his business, it’s suddenly the legislature’s business, it’s the Department of Education’s business,” he said.

Samira Burnside, his daughter, said she was able to receive treatment before the cutoff thanks to the three hours of testimony from trans advocates in Tallahassee before the boards made their decision.

Each county has taken a different approach in response to “Don’t Say Gay,” from removing books from libraries to teachers in Duval County being instructed to remove their rainbow safe space stickers. Shari Gawanter, a first grade teacher in Leon County, who is also gay, said in the roundtable that she always felt comfortable in the classroom until now. Even with more than two decades experience teaching, a number of certifications, and ongoing professional development, her judgment as an educator is

no longer trusted, she said.

“Fear about what book I read, what conversations I have when visitors come to my classroom, the teachable moments that happen … I hesitate,” she shared.

The panel also pointed out that while the LGBT community may be targeted at the moment, others need to be vigilant. Recently, DeSantis signed a six-week abortion ban into law, pending the results of a Florida Supreme Court decision.

“In reality it’s just testing the waters with governmental overreach,” Samira, 16, said. “It can happen to anyone.”

Even amid the uncertainty, though, the panel agreed that they would not be leaving Florida nor would they give up fighting for equality.

“We have a history of doing this. It’s in our DNA as people,” said Kelley Robinson, the president of the Human Rights Campaign. “What they’re saying about trans people now, 20 years ago is what they were saying about lesbian and gay people … I truly believe on the other side of this, there’s something greater that’s waiting for us.”

April 27, 2023 • Volume 14 • Issue 17 2520 N. Dixie Highway • Wilton Manors, FL 33305 Phone: 954-530-4970 Fax: 954-530-7943

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Equality Florida and the Human Rights Campaign hosted a roundtable to discuss the anti-LGBT legislation proposed in Tallahassee. Screenshot.

Top: from left to right, photo by Jay Rembert via Unsplash, photo

Wikimendia Commons, photo via Adobe Stock, photo by Tom Williams, via Wikimedia Commons, photo via PxHere, photo via Adam Fagen, via Flickr, and photo via Adobe Stock. Bottom: photo via PxHere, modified by Brendon Lies.

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I’ve been using Pallant since 2014 and they have provided great service and guidance while navigating all of the insurance challenges that Florida residents encounter.

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Mark (Marky G) Gilbert chairman of the board and interim executive director of OUTshine Film Festival with Franser Pazos from The Voice performed at the opening of The 25th Anniversary OUTshine LGBTQ Film Festival held at the Silverspot Cinema in Miami.

WEST HOLLYWOOD MAYOR HAS DREAMS OF CONGRESS

John McDonald

On a date during her sophomore year in college, Sepi Shyne had what would turn out to be a fateful brush with oppression.

“It was a very scary experience, and it kind of shifted me into activism,” she recalled.

Shyne was sitting with her girlfriend drinking lattes at a coffee shop in San Jose, California, when the manager, accompanied by a police officer, approached their table.

“The next thing I know, they are standing over us, and the police officer looks down and says, ‘You two need to get up and leave. The manager doesn’t want your kind in this establishment.’”

The manager then blew a kiss and winked as Shyne and her girlfriend beat a hasty retreat.

“We got up and ran out of there in tears,” she said. “We were both immigrants and scared of authority figures who were abusing their power.”

The incident strengthened the women’s resolve to get their law degrees and fight injustice. Two decades later, Shyne is now the mayor of West Hollywood, California, and campaigning for a seat in Congress.

“West Hollywood has and always will be on the right side of history — on the side of human rights, a sanctuary city for the LGBTQ+ community and immigrants,” she said.

Elected to the West Hollywood City Council in 2020, Shyne became the first lesbian of

Iranian descent in the world to hold public office.

Shyne came out to her mother in high school, and when the incident at the coffee shop in San Jose happened, she decided to become more vocal and visible in her advocacy efforts.

Shyne’s reputation as a civil rights advocate landed her a guest appearance on CNN. It was after that that she realized she could no longer return to Iran.

“LGBTQ people that are out are killed, and I would have been killed,” she said.

When U.S. Sen. Dianne Feinstein announced her upcoming retirement earlier this year, it set off a chain reaction in the Democratic ranks. U.S. Rep. Adam Schiff quickly announced his intentions to seek the Senate seat, leaving Congressional District 30, which includes West Hollywood, up for grabs.

So, inspired by the Iranian “Woman, Life, Freedom” movement, Shyne said she felt called to step up and run for the congressional seat being vacated in order to fight for the American dream she represents.

“I am literally a product of the American dream myself,” Shyne said. “I was an undocumented immigrant when I fled Iran. I was undocumented until I was 16, and now I’m the mayor of West Hollywood, and I want to make sure our democracy remains, and I’m going to fight for that.”

Sepi Shyne. Courtesy photo.

LAWMAKERS PRESENT BILL THAT WOULD BAN DRAG SHOWS

According to WRAL News, North Carolina legislators proposed a bill on April 18 that would charge people participating in “adult entertainment” with a misdemeanor on a first offense and a felony on further offenses. The bill, House Bill 673, defines adult entertainment as “a performance featuring topless dancers, exotic dancers, strippers, or male or female impersonators who provide entertainment that appeals to a prurient interest.”

“The criminalization of drag is especially dangerous in our current cultural context,” Equality NC, an LGBT rights organization, wrote in a press release on April 18 quoted by WRAL News. “Over the past year, the far-right extremist group the Proud Boys

STATE ANNOUNCES RESTRICTIONS ON GENDER-AFFIRMING CARE

Missouri Attorney General Andrew Bailey announced limits on genderaffirming care for adults on April 13, according to AP News. This comes after his announcement of limits on genderaffirming care for minors on March 20. The limit states that 18 months of therapy is required before receiving gender-affirming care and will be in effect from April 21 to next February.

“The Attorney General’s so-called emergency rule is based on distorted, misleading, and debunked claims and ignores the overwhelming body of scientific and medical evidence supporting this care,” the ACLU and Lambda Legal said in a joint statement. AP News also states that both organizations encouraged those affected by the limits to call.

STATE OFFERS PROTECTION FOR ABORTION AND TRANS CARE

According to AP News, Colorado Gov. Jared Polis signed three laws on April 14 that would allow people to go to Colorado for abortion access, puberty blockers, and gender-affirming surgery. Bordering states Wyoming and Oklahoma have restricted abortion while Utah has restricted genderaffirming care for minors.

“We see you and in Colorado, we’ve got your back,” said State Sen. Julie Gonzales during the signing ceremony.

Ashley Blinkhorn, a graduate student and activist who supported the bills, states that they will help her friends in

other parts of the country.

“It’s a real comfort to know that Colorado will provide health care to them if they visit or if they move here,” she told AP News.

State Sen. Julie Gonzales and Colorado Gov. Jared Polis via Twitter.

Missouri Attorney General Andrew Bailey.

Photo via Twitter.

have increasingly targeted the LGBTQ+ community, protesting drag shows, nightclubs, and public events put on by the queer community. ... Anti-drag bills will only further embolden the far-right in their attacks.”

Photo via Adobe Stock.

LGBT SKATE NIGHT MOVES TO THURSDAYS

John Hayden

You lace ‘em up, get your balance, and eventually work up the courage to let go of the wall. We’re talking about Pride Skate Night at Xtreme Action Park presented by SunServe.

Starting May 4, the outing moves to the first Thursday of the month. The night is a little retro, a little campy, and very LGBT. There’s something about skating in a circle while a DJ plays funky music while colored lights strobe across the rink. John Marler, SunServe’s Director of Communications, said people really get into the spirit.

Over the past couple of years, SunServe has been making a concerted effort to be out more in the community. Marler says events like this are about more than fun, they’re about finding safety in the community.

“Pride Skate Night is a unique event that provides an opportunity for the Stonewall Pride Parade and Street Festival to get its message out to the community in a fun and

engaging way. SunServe, by co-hosting an event, gets to help create a safe and inclusive space where members of the community can come together and celebrate their identity.”

Even if you haven’t laced up a skate since you were 12, you’ll still have fun. Pride Skate Night hosts everyone from beginners all the way up to advanced skaters who do tricks and act like it’s no big deal.

The fun starts at 7 p.m. and goes until 10 p.m., and will feature a limbo contest which begs the question: how low can you go?

OUR FUND GRANTS $250K TO LOCAL NONPROFITS

John Hayden

Unable to stop the cascade of anti-LGBT attacks flowing from a Republicandominated statehouse in Tallahassee, the fight moves to the courts and organizing for a contentious election year in 2024. At stake is a chance to vote out Sen. Rick Scott and wrest back some seats in the state legislature and deny Republicans a continuing supermajority. But that takes money and awareness. Both are evident in the list of recipients of the Our Fund Foundation and Community Foundation of Broward’s LGBTQ+ Social Justice & Equity Funders Collaborative Awards. Two hundred and fifty thousand dollars was doled out to eight nonprofits that support social equity and civil liberties of LGBT in Broward County. Grants ranged between $29,000-$50,000.

The groups formed the project last year in the face of growing animus towards LGBT in South Florida.

“This is a distressing time for all of us, not just those who identify as LGBTQ+,” said David Jobin, president and CEO of The Our Fund

Foundation.

2023 LGBTQ+ Social Justice & Equity Funders Collaborative Grant Recipients Include:

• Equality Florida – Safe & Healthy Schools in Broward

• YES Institute – Inclusive Futures in Broward County

• American Civil Liberties Union – Ensuring Healthcare & Education Without Erasure for LGBTQ+ People in Broward and Beyond

• Barry University – Project TranscendTranscending Disinformation & Bias to Protect Trans Health Care in Broward County

• Hued Songs – Building Belonging: An Artist Residency for Change

• Museum of Discovery and Science – MODS Inclusivity Initiative

• Ujima Men’s Collective – BROTHAS Project

• World AIDS Museum and Educational Center – Fighting Stigma and Building Community Through the Arts

Photo by Chris Benson, via Unsplash.

PRIDE FORT LAUDERDALE’S NEW EXISTENTIAL CRISIS

John Hayden

And then there was one.

After months of chaos surrounding Pride Fort Lauderdale (legally called Greater Fort Lauderdale Pride Inc.) and their event, Pride of the Americas (POTA), loss of major sponsors, and resignations, there now appears to be just one person remaining in any official capacity with the organization.

Pride President Miik Martorell, multiple sources tell SFGN, is the only person running operations.

Issues Include:

• Lack of any Board of Directors

• Distribution of Funds

• Notice of Meetings

• No Minutes of Meetings

SFGN reached out twice to Martorell for this article. Both calls have gone unreturned.

NON-EXISTENT BOARD

Article VI Section 1 A. of Pride’s By-Laws says “The Board of Directors shall consist of not less than three (3) persons.” Later the by-laws state the president, in this case, Martorell, only votes to break ties of the board.

He has spoken previously with SFGN and said reconstituting a board must be a top priority. But whether he has the unilateral power to do so is questionable. Filling vacancies is left to the remaining directors. In this case, none remain.

Also, there are three tiers of board members, and each requires experience in the organization. In this case, there are no active members to elevate. It is possible the organization could lure someone with experience to return.

But again, the by-laws don’t seem to anticipate a situation where the entire board has resigned.

EXECUTIVE DECISIONS

Article VII calls for an Executive Committee, made up by the organization’s five officers: President, Vice-President, Treasurer, Secretary, and Parliamentarian. Currently, only the position of President is filled.

The Secretary and a co-treasurer resigned in January, just before POTA. The other cotreasurer has since left. This means no one has been officially in charge of keeping and posting records for months. Even when there

was a secretary, minutes, past agendas, and notice of meetings were not available for SFGN to review.

FINANCIAL STANDSTILL

How Pride is paying anything is unclear. Any checks or disbursements from the past few months were likely in abeyance of Pride’s own by-laws.

Article X Section 2 calls for all checks to be written by the Treasurer and signed by two other officers. The treasurer may not sign checks. With no active treasurer, there is no one to keep the books, update the budget, or do tax filings or other critical jobs.

There is also no one to sign checks. As president, Martorell has signed checks but there is no one left to co-sign.

SFGN spoke with Martorell a few weeks after POTA, and he promised prompt disclosure of past minutes as well as the profit/loss sheet from the event. None of these have been forthcoming in the more than a month since he spoke to SFGN.

UNCERTAIN FUTURE

When is the next Pride Fort Lauderdale? Who knows. The organization has not announced a date for 2024, and its website is still promoting POTA events. Just weeks before POTA, which was years in the making, transparency issues began surfacing. Then board members started resigning and major sponsors pulled out.

Pride President Miik Martorell. Photo via pride365.com.

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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

COMMUNITY SINGALONG THIS SATURDAY WITH GMCSF

John Hayden

PRISM CELEBRATES THREE YEARS HELPING LGBT YOUTH

John Hayden

Raise your voice, awareness, and your spirits. The Gay Men’s Chorus of South Florida (GMCSF) is at the start of a very busy two months, and it all gets started April 29 with the first ever Community Singalong. The musical afternoon, which starts at 3 p.m. at Hunter’s Nightclub, is a new adventure for the GMCSF as well as the community. It’s not karaoke or cabaret, or a drag show. GMCSF VP of Community Relations Kely Van

Eaton says it’s something unique.

“It’s a pre-curated list of crowd-pleasing video and audio clips that will make you feel nostalgic and get you and your friends singing and dancing along...”

Joining the chorus will be the Bears of South Florida (BOSF).

“You don’t have to be a professional singer, just someone that wants to have fun and belt out some show tunes with the rest of the gang,” said BOSF President Will Hass.

“Whether you are seasoned, trained or like me can’t carry a tune type of individual; it promises to be a fun time.”

This event is part of the chorus’ plan to engage the community beyond the stages they usually play.

“Performing in local South Florida communities is crucial to developing relationships with new populations,”

GMCSF Executive Director Mark Kent said.

“Some visitors may hesitate to attend one of our main stage concerts in person. By meeting people where they are in their neighborhoods ... we can bring our messages of love right to them.”

Tickets can be pre-purchased for $10. For tickets and more upcoming events, visit GMCSF.org.

PRISM is an organization founded by LGBT youth to advocate for LGBT youth. Given the relentless legislative attacks by the GOP supermajority in Tallahassee and other state capitals, their work is more critical than ever.

With the current, devastating session coming to an end, PRISM is ready to celebrate and rally support for next year, which will include attacks at all levels while adding in the toxic atmosphere of an election year.

“There is something poetic about still coming together in joy just one day after the end of an already grueling legislative session,” PRISM Founder and President Maxx Fenning said.

PRISMversary Gala 2023 is set for 6 p.m. May 6 at the Center for Spiritual Living. The

“Folks tell young people like us that we’re the future. This is their opportunity to prove that they think it’s a future worth fighting for and investing in.”

Fenning founded PRISM when he was in his teens and will turn 21 later this year. Sponsors and donors may be nervous about backing an organization with little experience in running non-profits.

“I would be lying if I said PRISM hasn’t been building the ship as it sails,” Fenning says while encouraging people to look beyond the surface.

“PRISM started as a group of high schoolers with no nonprofit experience in the middle of a global pandemic and economic recession. Just three years later, we’ve grown into a burgeoning and thriving organization at the forefront of the fight for LGBTQ+ youth in our community. Folks tell young people like us that we’re the future. This is their opportunity to prove that they think it’s a future worth fighting for and investing in.”

The PRISMversary Gala doesn’t have a theme per se. Fenning says the real thing is being yourself.

“PRISM stresses the importance of being unapologetically yourself. We ask that folks show up in a way that makes them feel stunning, confident, and authentic.”

Tickets are $75 at the door, or can be pre-purchased for $60 at PRISMFL.org/Gala.

PRISM Founder and President, Maxx Fenning. Photo by Carina Mask. evening will include dinner and an open bar, a silent auction, and the just announced surprise host, Karla Croqueta, the Bearback Contessa herself.

“WE’VE GROWN INTO A BURGEONING AND THRIVING ORGANIZATION AT THE FOREFRONT OF THE FIGHT FOR LGBTQ+ YOUTH IN OUR COMMUNITY.”

- Maxx Fenning PRISM FOUNDER AND PRESIDENT

Photo via Gay Men’s Chorus of South Florida, Facebook.

“YOU DON’T HAVE TO BE A PROFESSIONAL SINGER, JUST SOMEONE THAT WANTS TO HAVE FUN AND BELT OUT SOME SHOW TUNES WITH THE REST OF THE GANG,”

- Will Hass

BOSF PRESIDENT

GAZETTE

WILTON MANORS

COMMISSIONERS REVIEW ECONOMIC PLANS FOR WILTON MANORS

By John Hayden

A lot of change has come to Wilton Manors since 2016, some noticeable, some behind the scenes.

During the city commission on April 11, commissioners were given an update on the Economic Development Strategic Plan (EDSP). Renee Miller of R. Miller Consulting Group looked at completed goals, what is in progress, and what ultimately turned out to be unfeasible.

The five-year plan, with an extra year thrown in due to pandemic, had six goals, most of which focus on promoting growth through promotion of infrastructure, redevelopment, and improved regulatory conditions. Progress has been made on all six. Of 79 strategies laid out at the start, 71 are complete or ongoing. Four are not complete and four are not viable due to circumstances beyond the city’s control.

Noting changes in the city, Miller laid out six points to stress over the next five years. They are adopting a brand identity for Andrews Avenue, increasing awareness among the types of businesses and residents the city wants to attract, attracting private investment, recruiting and retaining new business, promoting tourism, and more.

The report also lays out goals for improving livability, such as installing more shade trees,

an increased presence of art, and more mixeduse projects.

HARE TODAY… GONE TOMORROW

Residents of Jenada Isle are hopping mad over a situation that is only going to multiply. The neighborhood on the northwest side of

Wilton Manors is seeing an outbreak of bunny rabbits. City Manager Leigh Ann Henderson says this is likely the result of two domesticated rabbits being released into the area.

Now there are about forty running around the area because, as Henderson pointed out, “Bunnies are gonna do what bunnies do.” The dilemma commissioners wrestled with is that

the problem is only going to grow, but right now may not be big enough to warrant city action.

Unlike iguanas, bunnies are considered domestic animals, meaning people are not urged to humanely trap and destroy them. The city expects to monitor the situation.

Wilton Manors City Commission Hall. Photo by Carina Mask.

LGBT TRAVEL ADVISORY DISPUTED BY WILTON MANORS

By John Hayden

A travel advisory urging LGBT to think twice before deciding to move to, or vacation in, Florida is getting backlash. On April 11, Equality Florida released the warning, citing attacks on LGBT youth, health, book bans, education, and more.

During the Wilton Manors City Commission meeting on April 25, commissioners responded saying it will likely do more harm than good.

“They issued an advisory that it might not be safe for them using words like ‘harm’ and ‘assault,’” Commissioner Chris Caputo said. “This has been acknowledged with disappointment by the CVB, our local business community, and many businesses that I’ve spoken to.”

Caputo is concerned that, while the advisory is long and lays out credible arguments,

people are just reading the headline and top bullet points and not getting the nuance.

“It’s a little misleading and it’s definitely causing harm to tourism and our local businesses. It’s clear when you read the comments, they have not read the advisory in detail to learn why Equality Florida did it.”

Brandon Wolf of Equality Florida responded to the commission’s comments, saying, “The advisory is an honest look at the current and impending landscape in Florida so that people from across the globe can make informed decisions based on their own personal situation.”

Wolf says the travel advisory is having

a positive effect because it has people discussing ways to fight back.

“We are grateful for the robust discussions being had about how best to welcome visitors and new residents amidst DeSantis’ policy onslaught. We crafted this advisory in response to the litany of questions we have been receiving, especially from transgender people and those with transgender family members, about how policies that criminalize bathroom access, ban health care coverage, break up child custody agreements, loosen gun safety guardrails, and more may impact them.”

Mayor Scott Newton echoed his support for rallying the city.

“I understand why they said it but at the same time you’re hurting the state of Florida, especially South Florida. I don’t think that was their intention.”

Commissioners will look to craft a statement saying the city is open for business, open to all, and open to tourism. It will likely be discussed at the next meeting.

April 27, 2023 • Volume 10 • Issue 8

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

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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

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“The advisory is an honest look at the current and impending landscape in Florida so that people from across the globe can make informed decisions based on their own personal situation.”

- Brandon Wolf Equality Florida

THE SHOPPES OF WILTON MANORS REDEVELOPMENT

CITY-CENTRIC PLAN

The plan to add 252 midrise units for the 2200-2292 Wilton Drive property is not “Wilma on the Drive!” This redevelopment plan has not been conceived based on what is best for our city. It is not Wilton Manorscentric planning. It will not allow our unique neighborhood to thrive.

We are a unique community with a distinct character. Our neighbors have been under the most political and cultural intolerance to threaten our freedom since the '50 Lavender Scare. Arts, education, and freedom of expression have been penalized and swept away with the vociferous approval of State Legislators and a despotic governor. Innovative urban planning to foster community-focused development is critical to preserve Wilton Manors’ heritage. This plan does not.

Eight-story high-rise? 252 units? Seriously? Recently Wilton Drive was reduced to two lanes. The effect has been to give the Drive neighborhood a smalltown feel. Will an eight-story building in the middle of our entertainment and service hub create impossible traffic congestion?

Thirty-month construction plan (let’s call three years, three years, folks – delays caused by weather, etc., etc.) The lounges, restaurants, services organizations, and retail stores along the Drive may be challenged with another specter of decreased revenue as yet another possible threat to our small businesses settles over our community. In addition, the neighborhoods behind and adjacent to Alibi Plaza could be negatively impacted by this proposed stress on the infrastructure and aesthetically detrimental presence of an eight-story high-rise.

Skinny parking spaces to provide more spaces? Given how intricate and delicately balanced social and economic ecosystems are within a community, city leaders must take extra care when introducing supposedly innovative ideas such as this. An aging population, folks with mobility issues, and families with children will struggle with smaller parking spaces.

This project brings into question the entire planning process for the development of Wilton Manors. Our city needs our commissioners to facilitate a more transparent citizen-centric plan for a smart city that will foster community-focused development. How to solve the parking

issue? How do we deal with aging structures and infrastructure? How do we encourage sound social and economic growth to strengthen our community and enable it to thrive? Is there only one way to develop that property? How does this proposal fit into an overall plan for city renewal?

Our city’s development needs call into question the process, leadership roles, and stakeholders’ needs. We need to avail ourselves of the “industry’s best.” What are the top-quality urban developers saying about the best way to ensure life is better in our community? (Check out Nick Williamson’s TEDx Talk on YouTube, “It’s Time for Citizens to Take Back Urban Planning.”)

Our community leaders must place people first. Our community development must begin with a consideration of the needs and behavior of our Wilton Manors neighbors and our interactions with our surrounding material environments and each other.

City leaders, local authorities, management companies, and developers must be committed to co-created development plans engaging local residents rather than simply "consultation" after projects have been already constructed (“Here’s what’s proposed. Any comments?”). These stakeholders must ensure they have a solid, smart city communication strategy with a genuinely engaging presence on social media and an outreach to those without access to technology.

With these ideas in mind, city leaders can innovate Wilton Manors’ planning to empower residents to actively shape our unique neighborhoods and preserve our city’s uniqueness through co-created development plans that work for the community, not just for developers’ wallets.

— THOMAS PAUL SEVERINO WILTON MANORS, FLORIDA

The Shoppes of Wilton Manor via Google Street view.

IMPORTANT APPOINTMENTS TO WILTON MANORS PLANNING & ZONING BOARD

By John Hayden

The Planning & Zoning Board (P&Z) may be the most powerful entity in Wilton Manors.

With the city on the verge of major construction and redevelopment, P&Z holds major sway over which plans move forward and which one’s go away.

At their April 11 city commission meeting, city commissioners attempted to fill four openings (three seats and one alternate) on the board. Eight candidates got up to state their case before commissioners voted for their choices. Mayor Scott Newton was absent from the meeting, despite attempts to attend by phone. Therefore he did not participate or vote.

Tim Moses and Tim Theissen were re-

appointed to the board. Justin Proffitt will join them as the third member who got the most votes. William Hayden and Scott McCoy tied with two votes each to fill the alternate spot. A revote with just those two also ended in a tie. Commissioners decided to delay filling the alternate P&Z spot until the next meeting when Newton is expected to return.

Candidates were grilled by commissioners, who seemed most concerned that P&Z members know the conditions for granting variances as well as their knowledge of the city. Most candidates said they would use the recently revamped city code as their guide.

BIG DECISIONS

The board will face many decisions on development. From east of 26th St. and Five Points to Shoppes of Wilton Manors (aka Alibi Plaza), thousands of new units are to be built.

Up first will be Alibi Plaza in the heart of the city. P&Z Board was supposed to discuss it at their April 17 meeting, but moved the discussion until May 8. Multiple insiders tell SFGN that developers asked for more time because they didn’t feel they had the votes to move forward.

The project would destroy the building with the gym and Pride Factory, and put up a parking garage. The parking lot in front would become home to mixed use residential with about 250 units

Wilton Manors City Hall. Photo credit: Carina Mask.

The board will face many decisions on development. From east of 26th St. and Five Points to Shoppes of Wilton Manors (aka Alibi Plaza), thousands of new units are to be built.

DIVERSITY HONORS CELEBRATES LGBT COMMUNITY

Most pool parties happen with the sun high in the sky and fun swimsuits on parade. But an evening event by a pool at the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Hollywood was a splashy evening event. It hosted the Harvey Milk Foundation’s (HMF) Diversity Honors Awards, celebrating LGBT community heroes in the spirit of Harvey Milk.

Returning for the first time since autumn of 2021, the gala moved from its traditional space inside a grand ballroom at the Hard Rock to one of the resort’s gorgeous pools.

“It was a smashing success, everyone loved being outside,” HMF Executive Director Miriam Richter said.

Hundreds gathered under the stars for dinner and drinks while honoring the legacy of martyred LGBT icon Harvey Milk. Harvey’s nephew, Stuart Milk, was there and discussed headon the challenges the community faces here

at home including book bans, “Don’t Say Gay,” attacks on drag entertainment and trans health.

HMF also focuses on growing attacks abroad.

“We had more than two dozen LGBT refugees from Ukraine, Belarus, and Russia, which emphasized the need for continuing the groundbreaking work the Milk Foundation does on the ground in Europe since the war began,” Richter said.

Honorees included Queen Mother of the International Court System Nicole M. Ramirez, Carol Moran of The Pride Center, Damian McKinney of Stoli Vodka, State Senator Shevrin “Shev” Jones, Drag Race alum Latice Royale, as well as Jacquelne Lorber and Sebrina Maria Alfonso of South Florida Symphony Orchestra.

The total amount raised has not been disclosed by HMF.

John Hayden

Stuart Milk.

Photo via Diversity Honors, Facebook.

“THIS IS THE START OF SOMETHING BEAUTIFUL. WE’RE GOING TO CHANGE HEARTS AND MINDS. WE’RE GOING TO HOLD CANDIDATES AND POLITICIANS TO THE TASK.”

- Tiffany Arieagus SOUTH FLORIDA ICON AND ACTIVIST

PORT ST. LUCIE CANCELS PRIDE PARADE UNDER POLITICAL PRESSURE

John Hayden

Port St. Lucie has canceled this weekend’s Pride parade and is restricting entry into the festival to people 21+.

Pride of the Treasure Coast, the organization producing the events, made the announcement on social media, saying, “After multiple meetings with city officials, it is with a heavy heart that Pride Alliance of the Treasure Coast has to announce that this weekend’s Pridefest will now be a 21 and older event. The city has decided that with the likelihood that the governor will sign the latest bill into effect this evening, that we will need to be on the side of caution and has required us to make this necessary change. We are upset ... that it has come to this. We also regret to announce that we will have to cancel our plans to bring back our beloved parade.”

The city revoked the permit for the parade in the shadow of SB 1438, which becomes law as soon as Gov. Ron DeSantis signs it. The bill makes it a crime for anyone under 18 years old to attend “adult entertainment,” which now includes drag entertainment.

The bill makes no distinction between a drag story hour at a library or a midnight show at a club. The youth parade was also canceled. The age restrictions will prevent families from attending together, be they same-sex couples with their children, or supportive parents bringing their LGBT children.

DRAG QUEENS STORM TALLAHASSEE

This is the latest legislative attack by the GOP supermajority in Tallahassee. They have expanded “Don’t Say Gay,” restricted health care for the trans community, and are letting parents ban books with even a veiled reference to the existence of LGBT.

Compass runs Palm Beach Pride, and their Executive Director, Julie Seaver, responded to the announcement with sympathy and a warning.

“I would caution Port St. Lucie Civic Center and the Port St. Lucie City Commission to not move forward in pre-complying with laws that are unconstitutional and not yet laws. It gives the state way too much power ... Do not let this fascist state government scare you into pre-compliance with propaganda.”

The imminent passage and signing were also addressed at the most recent city commission meeting in Wilton Manors. City attorney Kerry Ezrol monitors legislation under discussion in Tallahassee that would affect the city. The law could affect the Stonewall Pride Festival in June.

When questioned by commissioners, he gave a preliminary opinion that, since the permit has already been issued, it’s possible that this event may get by this year.

Leaders that approve permits in violation of the law could be removed and replaced with an appointee by the governor. Businesses found in violation could lose their liquor and other licenses to operate.

"Drag Is Not A Crime!”

That phrase echoed through the halls of the state capital on Tuesday, as hundreds of drag queens marched in protest of SB 1438 which will, at best, push drag entertainment deep into the closet or, at worst, cost them their livelihoods and possibly their freedom.

The bill does not explicitly target drag shows, but redefines adult live performances as, “Any show, exhibition, or other presentation that is performed in front of a live audience and in whole or in part, depicts or simulates nudity, sexual conduct, sexual excitement, specific sexual activities, ... lewd conduct, or the lewd exposure of prosthetic or imitation genitals or breasts.”

state made the trip to Tallahassee. South Florida icon and activist Tiffany Arieagus told Tampa Bay 10 News she was encouraged by the day.

“This is the start of something beautiful. We’re going to change hearts and minds. We’re going to hold candidates and politicians to the task.”

“THIS IS THE START

- Tiffany Arieagus SOUTH FLORIDA ICON AND

If a minor is in the presence of “live adult entertainment,” the establishment could face administrative retribution in the loss of permits and liquor licenses. Adults in charge could face criminal charges.

Entertainers and allies from across the

The bill has cleared both houses of the state legislature and will become law once Gov. Ron DeSantis signs it, which he is expected to do quickly. Even though it’s not law yet, the city of Port St. Lucie decided to preemptively implement the ban. They canceled the Treasure Coast’s Pride Parade last week, made it 21+, and then put up a dark curtain around the festival so outsiders couldn’t see in.

The bill will face court challenges, but it’s unclear if a judge will allow the law to go into effect or issue an injunction preventing implementation as the case works its way through the courts.

Photo via Adobe Stock.

THE CITY REVOKED THE PERMIT FOR THE PARADE IN THE SHADOW OF SB 1438, WHICH BECOMES LAW AS SOON AS GOV. RON DESANTIS SIGNS IT. THE BILL MAKES IT A CRIME FOR ANYONE UNDER 18 YEARS OLD TO ATTEND “ADULT ENTERTAINMENT,” WHICH NOW INCLUDES DRAG ENTERTAINMENT.

John Hayden

Photo via Karen Dega, Facebook.

OF SOMETHING BEAUTIFUL. WE’RE GOING TO CHANGE HEARTS AND MINDS. WE’RE GOING TO HOLD CANDIDATES AND POLITICIANS TO THE TASK.”

ACTIVIST

MIAMI BEACH PRIDE

TO SEE MANY MORE PHOTOS, VISIT SOUTH FLORIDA GAY NEWS ON FACEBOOK.

Photos by JR Davis

VIP Beach Affair, April 14, 2023

Miami Beach Pride Festival, April 15, 2023.

VIP Beach Affair, April 14, 2023

Miami Beach Pride Festival, April 16, 2023.

Miami Beach Pride Parade, April 16, 2023.

VIP Beach Affair, April 14, 2023

Miami Beach Pride Festival, April 16, 2023.

Miami Beach Pride Parade, April 16, 2023.

EVELYN’S FORT LAUDERDALE

STYLE & SUBSTANCE MAKE EVELYN’S A WINNER

And, as such is not so outrageously priced at $105. The coriander seed chermoula and a salad with greens from local Swank Farms is the perfect accompaniment. The fish is presented whole and meticulously boned at the table. Although the dish was intended for two, I desperately wanted to taste the short rib tagine, also scaled for two, so we ordered both. The dish features American Wagyu short ribs (three!) served in a traditional tagine over a creamy smoked farro and asparagus risotto, pistachio dukkah, and rich beef jus. Again, as a dish for two priced at $85, it ends up being quite reasonable for a high-end restaurant. As the evening went on, I heard less and less from my inner hippie and more from my inner gourmand who was delighted.

It’s not often I am invited to dine at a place like Evelyn’s in the Four Seasons Fort Lauderdale. The old hippie in me was scoffing at the over-extravagance of the décor and 1%ness of it all, while my inner gourmand was practically turning cartwheels. Thankfully, it is all understated and very refined. It doesn’t scream, “I have money” like Donald Trump, it’s more a whisper or an eyebrow arched at just the right angle. The idea of spending more for a meal than most folks spend for a week’s worth of groceries still raises the hairs on the back of my neck. But when you’re being pampered so sublimely, and the coastal Florida cuisine meets Eastern Mediterranean flavors, it makes for such a delightful pairing all that makes all float away.

We relaxed and gazed across the pool onto the Atlantic Ocean, and as the sun set, we sipped our cocktails, a perfect Negroni for me, a refreshing mocktail of ginger beer

and cucumber for my hubby as we sampled the mezze platter of spreads served with house-baked pita. The grand mezze features a trio of spreads, all of which can be ordered individually: smoked eggplant, smoked eggplant puree with rose petal, pistachio, mint, and eggplant caramel; charred red pepper mashed with pomegranate seed, walnuts, and coriander; a classic hummus sprinkled with sumac and pine nuts, and we even splurged to add black winter truffle. Yes, the tab for this dish alone was $64, but that isn’t bad when you consider it could serve as dinner for two or an appetizer for 8-10. Each dish was a treat for the tastebuds and if you like things spicy, the chef’s special sauce can add that dash of heat for you. We left most of our mezze to take home for enjoyment another time. A couple of small plates also tempted us. I judge a restaurant by its ability to cook octopus, one of the trickiest proteins to prepare. Evelyn’s is slow-cooked sou vide and then grilled over olive wood adding a wonderful smoky undertone to the tender flesh. It is served with carrot purée, carrot crumble, and preserved lemon. The crispy falafel served with tahini, harissa, and delicious house pickles was delightful. For our entrée, we opted for a grilled whole branzino that is so large that it is plated to serve two.

When it came to dessert, that inner gourmand was practically running around the restaurant blowing kisses to the attentive waitstaff, especially our server Christian, and adorable chef, Brandon Salomon, for creating such an exquisite experience. Fitting for a meal when so many of my inner “selves” were coming out (it was like having dinner with Sybil - younger readers should Google the reference), my inner chocoholic gasped at the beauty of the dark chocolate pave, with spun halva, black sesame ganache, tahini shortbread, grey sea salt, and almonds. It was so rich; I couldn’t even finish it. My hubby was equally agog over his tropical fruit pavlova, featuring a pool of passion fruit-banana cremeux, and a crisp and chewy meringue surrounding guava citrus sorbet and sliced mango.

The price point will, no doubt, make it a special occasion place for 99% of us, the lucky other 1% can enjoy it on a more regular basis. If I could, it would be my regular go-to spot.

BENNY’S ON THE BEACH on the Lake Worth Beach Pier may be getting the boot. After submitting four proposals, the restaurant’s owner Lee Lipton was asked to submit a fifth proposal by the city commissioners. Lipton said he couldn’t keep negotiating and that the decision should be made. “So, here’s what I’d like, and I would like this very much. You vote on it tonight. If you vote no, you know that’s the end for me. I’m not renegotiating at this point. I have given $1.2 million. I’m not, just evict us, that’s it, or let us stay, because I’m telling you that’s it.” Lake Worth Beach officials decided not to renew its lease at the latest commission meeting.

Olive Wood Smoked Octopus. Photo via

Rick Karlin

Benny’s owner Lee Lipton via bennysonthebeach.com.

STOP, LOOK, AND LISTEN

Do you recall hearing as a youngster, “Stop, look, and listen before you cross the street. Use your eyes. Use your ears. And then you use your feet?”

The words have been running through my head all day, just as songs often do. That is, until I realize that I’m singing “Here Comes Santa Claus,” and it’s mid-April.

I’ve taught “Stop, look, and listen,” to nephews and nieces, and then to their children. As they age, I change the words for the same message to “Be in the moment.” One Wall Street executive in the family has told me, “That’s the best gift you’ve given me.”

Last night I was at a party across the street, and spent a big chunk of time talking to a guy I just met with whom we covered everything from our names and where we grew up, to the challenges of aging. I picked him out because I had been watching him and his husband hang together. There was an intimacy going on to which I could relate.

Despite the big differences in our childhoods, and our experiences as gay men, we ended up talking about “awareness,” and being in the moment. That’s when I lost consciousness of the time. When I enter the realm of the senses, and focus them entirely on the moment, I dismiss all thought as disruptive. Stop, look, and listen. Because we got to that consciousness, I’ll remember him and what was said long after all thoughts of the party meld into one.

Earlier in the week, I had the same

experience over coffee with a guy I’ve known for a few years. We’ve always been friendly to each other in passing, but when we sat and shared what we’ve learned about awareness, I entered an intimacy with him that I’ll now carry with me, and it’s far more likely that we’ll socialize. Once you get to the point where you both understand that it’s only through our senses that we’re in the moment, the conversation and relationship go to a higher level.

Ray and I seem to be doing a lot more “stop, look and listen,” with each other. With the game-changing death of our dog, Lincoln, we’re both very susceptible to awareness, to being conscious of each other, and curious about one another’s feelings.

I often experience myself as if I’m dream walking through the day. My emotions go neither up nor down. I’m neither excited about, nor dreading the future, although I’m experiencing more and more significant deaths in my life, and I do give fleeting moments of thought to “what if?” The thing I like about the “Stop, look and listen” children’s lesson is that when it comes to mind, I do stop, and start using my senses to register what’s happening, like being in the presence of friends, old and new, and in the company of my beloved.

Brian McNaught has been an author and educator on LGBTQ issues since 1974. Former Congressman Barney Frank said of Brian, “No one has done a better job of chronicling what it’s like to grow up gay." www.brian-mcnaught.com.

Photo by Neil Owen, via Wikimedia Commons.

Brian McNaught

I’VE TAUGHT “STOP, LOOK, AND LISTEN,” TO NEPHEWS AND NIECES, AND THEN TO THEIR CHILDREN. AS THEY AGE, I CHANGE THE WORDS FOR THE SAME MESSAGE TO “BE IN THE MOMENT.”

CUTTING THROUGH THE NOISE TO SHOW DEI’S TRUE VALUE

The backlash against diversity, equity, and inclusion – in Florida and elsewhere – has at times reached such a crescendo that all the good DEI work that’s still happening each and every day gets lost in the clamor.

Reasons behind the backlash may be many. Sometimes it’s political, as evidenced by much of what we see in the news and on social media.

Sometimes it may be that certain people have such entrenched views opposed to DEI that there is no reaching them and no point in trying. It’s wasted effort and energy best spent in other directions.

But in some cases the criticisms come from a lack of understanding about DEI, what it entails, who it affects, and how it works. In those cases, it may be possible to sway the thinking.

Part of the problem is that when many people hear DEI, they think almost exclusively in terms of race. Perhaps secondarily, they think about women trying to break the glass ceiling and make inroads in corporate boardrooms. To a lesser extent, they may think about the LGBTQ community.

But regardless of which of those areas come first to mind, so many people think that DEI has nothing to offer them; that it’s just something that will help other people

make gains at their expense.

That’s where the opportunity and the need for education come in, because DEI encompasses everyone, no matter their background. It includes people with varying degrees of physical ability, neurodivergence, illness, sexual preference, economics, trauma, and more. Review that list and you will realize that each and every one of us falls in there somewhere.

Yes, it’s true that race and the effects of systemic racism remain at the center of DEI conversations – and rightfully so. If we can’t fix that we won’t be able to fix anything else. But race isn’t the beginning, middle, and end when it comes to DEI. There is so much more.

Also, it’s important to note that DEI is not a zero-sum game; it isn’t about creating winners and losers, knocking one person down so that another can be picked up. Quite the contrary: A strong DEI program helps improve conditions for everyone, making the workplace more inclusive, more welcoming, and more positive for all.

DISCOVERING OUR SHARED HUMANITY

Along those lines, one of the most important aspects of DEI efforts is helping to create within each of us a sense of empathy, a sense of understanding, about others; how they differ from us, how we differ from them–and how we are all entitled to humanity and dignity.

We know we don’t always treat each other all that well, though. Think of your own experiences.

At some point in your life you have felt rejected, exploited, or completely invisible. Some people have been fortunate that those experiences have been few and far between. Others, though, have felt the sting of those slights too many times due to historic systems of oppression in employment, healthcare, and social structures. DEI helps us recognize this and encourages us to treat each other in a more compassionate and sympathetic manner.

Here is something else we share no matter our backgrounds: We all have biases that can rule our thoughts and our actions if we let them. This is true regardless of our race, regardless of our gender, regardless of our sexual preferences, and regardless of any other characteristic that is connected to us. Bias is universal.

That bias is common, though, doesn’t mean we need to surrender and accept it, and it certainly doesn’t make it an excuse for us to engage in prejudice, discrimination, or racism. An effective DEI program should help us see that and inspire us to work to conquer our biases.

Sometimes critics of DEI say the point of the entire effort is simply to make white people feel guilty about their biases, or to imply that white people don’t have significant problems and therefore have nothing to complain about.

Once again, this is not the case. DEI work does not suggest that white people have never suffered burdens or hardships. Clearly they have and continue to do so. It’s just that those burdens or hardships were not caused by skin color.

In my work as a DEI consultant, when I bring new groups together, one of the first things I do is have everyone involved – leaders, stakeholders, and team members – share their DEI stories.

And everyone has such a story, even if they don’t realize it at first. Even people who aren’t members of historically marginalized groups have a DEI story. This is because diversity is about how things differ, and when you think about how people differ – in age, race, gender, sexual preference, physical abilities, neurodivergence, and much more – no one is left out.

Nika White

IN MY WORK AS A DEI CONSULTANT, WHEN I BRING NEW GROUPS TOGETHER, ONE OF THE FIRST THINGS I DO IS HAVE EVERYONE INVOLVED – LEADERS, STAKEHOLDERS, AND TEAM MEMBERS –SHARE THEIR DEI STORIES.

Dr. Nika White, the author of “Inclusion Uncomplicated: A Transformative Guide to Simplify DEI,” is president and CEO of Nika White Consulting (www.nikawhite.com).

Photo by Tim Mossholder, via Unsplash.

THE WHEEL

Wow! Sounds like Mr. Andrew Brett is looking to reinvent the wheel. Or should I say his squirrel cage wheel? Is another gay news themed publication in the works? Mr. Brett should look before he takes that (financial) leap! As Jimmy Carter found out and as Joe Biden is now confirming... you can’t please all the people all the time. I knew Norm since the lunch meetings of Monte’s Gay Lauderdale days. And I have nothing bad to say about Norm.

Sincerely, Bruce Wheatley, RN

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1164 E Oakland Park Blvd, Suite 201 Oakland Park, FL 33334

Dr. Macek is double board certified in Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine by the American Board of Anesthesiology. Dr. Macek is fellowship trained in Pain Medicine at the University of Washington Medical Center in Seattle, the birthplace and leading program of modern pain management in the United States.

‘AT MIDNIGHT’

Aurora Dominguez

Magic, mayhem, romance, and revenge: “At Midnight” by Dahlia Adler has it all.

WHAT WAS YOUR INSPIRATION BEHIND YOUR MOST RECENT ANTHOLOGY?

It was actually contributor Anna-Marie McLemore’s idea! I’d already done two collections of YA reimaginings – “His Hideous Heart,” which reimagines the work of Edgar Allan Poe, and “That Way Madness Lies,” which reimagined the work of William Shakespeare – and my editor and I were having a tough time clicking on a third one. Then A-M suggested fairy tales, and asked that I be the one to edit them but bring them on as a contributor, and voila!

WHAT DOES “READING WITH PRIDE” MEAN TO YOU?

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There’s a particular joy in finding characters who reflect the way you live and love, especially if they’ve historically been excluded from literature, and to me, reading with pride is embracing that joy, that feeling of being found and seen and loved. In addition to writing books and editing anthologies, I run a queer book blog called LGBTQReads, and people’s awe at what’s available to them on shelves these days that wouldn’t have been even five years ago is something that really sticks with me.

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

Stories can be such a strong way of showing us what’s possible in this world, and it’s really hard to feel that possibility when the stories never seem to be about you. How are you supposed to feel like love and adventure are for you when books seem to suggest that they’re only for people who fit a certain mold?

There’s also this very strong perception of universality to a certain type of character, and those of us who’ve grown up in the margins know that it’s a wildly inaccurate perception, no matter how much media would like to perpetuate it. We also know how much it can bleed into real life and make things incredibly difficult for marginalized people. Making clear there are different ways to be, to experience things, to have grown up, to relate to family, and to view specific issues … I think that can go a long way toward increasing empathy.

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

“At Midnight” is a collection of YA fairytale reimaginings by 14 of YA’s most talented and wonderful authors and also me. It was the brainchild of one of the contributors, AnnaMarie McLemore, who wanted to write for it but not edit it, and given that I’ve already done two anthologies of reimaginings for my publisher, we thought this would fit beautifully as the third!

TOM MACEK, MD Board Certified in: ANESTHESIOLOGY, PAIN MANAGEMENT

Photo via Dahlia Adler, Facebook.

Donations to the Norm Kent LGBTQ Newsmaker Fund can be made here:

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