Our City Hollywood: June 2023

Creating Dazzling Smiles for Over 40 Years!

ARE YOU WONDERING WHAT YOUR HOME IS WORTH?

901 SAINT ANDREWS RD

Breathtaking one story 2/2 + den corner villa with tons of upgrades. Remodeled kitchen with white wood cabinets, Italian stone counters & newer appliances. Remodeled bathrooms, 24in tile thru-out, wood flooring in both bedrooms, recessed lighting, large closets with built-ins, new central A/C, accordion shutters. Huge covered screened patio offers exceptional out-door space. 1 car garage. Short walk to the pool and clubhouse. $559,900

SOLD&CLOSED

HOLLYWOOD BEACH

Steps to the sand & short walk to the famous Hollywood Broadwalk. Studio condo in boutique 2-story building. Perfect for a weekend getaway & can be rented 3 times/yr. Includes a parking spot in rear. New AC wall unit & gas stove. Trim tree to see intracoastal from the unit. Sold furnished.

PriceReduced Bring$OFFERS

HALLANDALE BEACH

Spacious 1/1.5 unit. Minutes to beaches, Atlantic Village. Next to Gulfstream race track, Aventura mall & new YMCA complex. Enclosed patio. Large living, dining room & Master Bedroom. New Range & central air. Condo fees include cable, water, pest control, bocce, shuffleboard, pool & clubhouse. $159,900

OVER 60 YEARS OF COMBINED SELLING EXPERIENCE

See what a new buyer said about us (5 Star Review )

5 Star Google & Zillow reviews

“I have nothing but amazing things to say about MaryEllen and Marty. My wife & I were looking to buy our first home and initially felt lost and overwhelmed by all the info out there. That’s when MaryEllen and Marty helped. They are extremely knowledgeable about the market. They navigated us through the entire process, were very patient with us, and gave us great advice. They found the perfect home for us and continued to be there for us every step of the way, providing the best guidance, knowledge, and support as we found our home, made an offer, had our home inspection, selected home insurance, and closed on our home. They’re great at communicating both by phone and email and made staying in contact a breeze. Not only are they experienced and professional, but they’re also very kind and genuine people. We trust them wholeheartedly. I would absolutely recommend them to my friends and family.”

PUBLISHERS

Christy & Terry Jaillet publisher@ourcitymedia.com

MANAGING EDITOR

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ART DIRECTOR

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Terry Jaillet, Robin Drulard, Jon Duka, Mayor Josh Levy, Todd Delmay, Edward Otto Zielke, Mitchell Zahn

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JUNE 3

Love the Everglades Movement Exhibit

Love the Everglades Movement is an environmental nonprofit established over 10 years ago by Reverend Houston R. Cypress and Jean Sarmiento. The organization encourages education and action on the preservation of the Everglades and looks to Reconciliation as an integral aspect of the Greater Everglades restoration project because of its necessity to integrate indigenous knowledge into the overall process. In conjunction with the exhibition, there will be an ongoing screening of Python Huntress. Python Huntress is a glimpse into the life of Donna Kalis, an environmentalist and Python Elimination Specialist. Exhibit Opening reception 5:00 pm - 8:00 pm at the Art & Cultural Center Hollywood. For info, scan the QR code..

JUNE 4

Full Moon Drum Circle

Bring a drum or percussion instrument to the ArtsPark and participate in a guided drum circle. All skill levels are welcome. Meet at the Palm Court (West Side). 7:00 pm - 9:00 pm at ArtsPark at Young Circle, Hollywood.

JUNE 8

School is Out

Celebrate the last day of school with the kids! Broward County Public Schools

Last Day of the School year starts Summer Break.

JUNE 4

Dream Care Classic Car Show

Check out dozens of classic cars in downtown Hollywood or show off your own. Connoisseurs will be shining up their trucks, hot rods, European convertibles and muscle cars. 11:00- 3:00 in downtown Hollywood. For more info call 954-8251027 or email jbevsr@msn.com.

JUNE 5

Food trucks at ArtsPark

Take the day off from cooking! Food In Motion presents Food Trucks at ArtsPark every first Monday of each month from 5:30 PM - 9:30 PM. Hosted at ArtsPark at Young Circle. For info call 954-788-3467.

JUNE 9

Arts Park Movie Featuring

Remember the Titans

See a free family-friendly flick every Friday at the ArtsPark at Young Circle in Downtown Hollywood. Lawn seating is available, so bring a blanket or beach chair for comfort. As a reminder, City parks are plastic and foam-free. Single-use items, like plastic water bottles and utensils, are prohibited on the grounds. 8:00 pm - 10:00 pm. For info call 954-921-3404.

JUNE 10

Hello Summer

This annual event returns from noon till 5:00 pm. Come out and celebrate the day with family and friends at PJ. Meli Park, 2901 SW 52nd Street, Dania Beach. There will be music, food, bounce houses, and more. For more info, call 954-985-4400.

June 2023 Calendar

JUNE 16

Junteenth Celebration

Join local dignitaries and community members to celebrate Juneteenth. On June 19, 1865, Union Army General Gordon Granger road into Galveston, Texas to enforce Abraham Lincoln’s Emancipation Proclamation in the last, most remote known location in the South. Since then, the date has been celebrated as the end of American slavery. Join together with friends and neighbors to celebrate the freedoms we have and the progress that still needs to come.

JUNE 17

Downtown Hollywood ArtWalk

JUNE 17

Stonewall Pride Wilton Manors

The Stonewall Pride Parade and Street Festival typically attracts 50,000 spectators and has a direct economic impact of more than $6 million dollars for the City of Wilton Manors, according to an independent study. Stonewall Pride celebrates the historic Stonewall Riots and the start of the LGBTQ+ human rights movement and how it has shaped our community. 3:00 pm - 11:00 pm in Downtown Wilton Manors.

Parade starts at 7:00 pm. For info & tickets scan the QR Code.

JUNE 10

Hollywood Beach Sweep

Help keep Hollywood Beach beautiful by volunteering for the Hollywood Beach Sweep Clean-Up on the 2nd Saturday of each month from 7:00 – 11:00 a.m. at Charnow Park, 300 Connecticut Street and the Hollywood Beach Broadwalk. Register your vehicle tag by Wednesday, the week of the event, to secure your four hours parking with the Parking Department. Scan the QR code for more info.

The Downtown Hollywood ArtWalk is back! This monthly event is open to all. Explore all that downtown Hollywood has to offer:! Visit galleries and shops while enjoying art, cultural entertainment, live music, murals, and more! Artisan Market, 6pm-11pm; Mural Tour, 6pm-7pm; Gallery Tour, 7pm-8pm; Impulse Art - fusion of music and foot painting, 8pm-9pm. For more info visit www.floridashollywood.org/ ArtWalk/.

JUNE 18

Fathers' Day

Celebrate fathers, fatherhood, paternal bonds, and the influence of fathers in society. Many countries celebrate it on the third Sunday of June, though it is also celebrated widely on other days by many other countries. Happy Father’s Day!

Federal Assistance Available for Families Impacted by Floods

The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) is operating in Broward County to help homeowners affected by April’s severe flooding. Homeowners and renters who were impacted by the April 12-14 severe storms, tornadoes, and flooding are now eligible to apply for FEMA disaster assistance.

FEMA Individual Assistance helps disaster survivors begin recovery by providing financial assistance for basic and critical needs. The agency wants every individual and family affected by the April 12 – 14 severe storms, tornadoes and flooding to have a safe, accessible and functional place to stay. FEMA is not a substitute for insurance. Nor can it duplicate other sources of assistance.

What assistance does FEMA provide?

• Lodging Expense Reimbursement for hotel expenses; this is for eligible uninsured or underinsured applicants who could not return to their home due to disaster-related damage. Keep copies of receipts.

• Home Repair/Replacement Assistance for disaster losses not already covered by another source.

• Rental Assistance for alternative housing if you can no longer occupy your primary residence due to disaster-related damage.

• Personal Property Assistance to repair or replace essential, uninsured personal property damaged by the severe storms, tornadoes and flooding.

• Transportation Assistance for primary vehicles damaged by the disaster.

• Medical and Dental Assistance for uninsured medical and dental needs or losses caused by the severe storms, tornadoes and flooding.

• Funeral Assistance related to a death attributed directly or indirectly as a result of the disaster.

What can lead to an “ineligible”

determination?

Many times, an application is determined to be “ineligible” because of a missing document. You may need to submit additional information to expedite or restart the application review process. Examples include:

• Proof of insurance coverage (Declaration Page)

• Copy of your insurance settlement pertaining to damage caused by the disaster.

• Proof of identity (U.S. passport, military I.D., motor vehicle registration, Social Security card along with a federal or state I.D., a payroll stub that shows all or part of your Social Security number.)

• Proof of occupancy (lease or rental agreement, rent receipts, utility bills, motor vehicle registration, etc.) FEMA has provided more ways to meet this requirement.

• Proof of ownership (deed or title, mortgage documentation, homeowner’s insurance policy, property tax bill or receipt, manufactured home certificate or title and home purchase contracts.) FEMA has provided more ways to meet this requirement.

• Proof the damaged property was your primary residence when the disaster occurred.

If you have questions about FEMA’s determination letter, you may go online to DisasterAssistance.gov. or call the Disaster Assistance Helpline at 800-621-3362, seven days a week from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. ET.

What does a FEMA inspector look for?

FEMA may require an inspection to determine whether a home is safe, accessible and functional. FEMA considers the following factors when determining if an applicant is eligible for assistance:

• Is the exterior of the home structurally sound, including the doors, roof and windows?

• Does the electricity, gas, heat, plumbing, sewer and septic systems function properly?

• Is the inside of the house habitable and structurally sound, including the ceiling and floors?

• Is the home capable of being used for its intended purpose?

• Is there a safe access to and from the home?

In many cases, disaster-related damage may exist, yet the residents can still safely live in their home.

Small Businesses Assistance

The Small Business Administration (SBA) offers low-interest disaster loans to individuals and households to help with disaster losses. FEMA works with the SBA to determine if you may qualify for Personal Property Assistance, Transportation Assistance, or a Group Flood Insurance Policy.

FEMA will automatically refer business owners to the SBA to be considered for a disaster loan if you meet SBA’s income standards. FEMA uses your household annual gross income and number of dependents to determine if you should be referred to the SBA.

▸ If you have been impacted by the flooding, scan the QR code to learn more about federal assistance programs or apply for relief.

HOLLYWOOD HISTORICAL SOCIETY LECTURE SERIES

Brings Local History to Life

From hurricanes to politics to firefighting to crime, Hollywood’s history encompasses more than just old buildings. And on one Sunday every month the Hollywood Historical Society takes its show on the road to the Stirling Road branch of the Broward Public Library to show you all about it.

For the past eight years, people come to learn about these and other historical topics, often from those who were actually there! Reviews have been consistently incredible, no matter what the content.

In fact, based on the success of the HHS presentation on the venerable Hollywood Beach Hotel, the Society, with the support of the Windhover Foundation, produced an Emmy®winning documentary film on the subject! Going forward will be another documentary; this one on the history of Liberia, the Hollywood neighborhood originally planned and laid out by J. W. Young in 1923 to be exclusively for and run by African-Americans.

The next two lectures on the HHS agenda are the Stonewall National Museum Archives & Library, scheduled for June 11th, and The History of Hurricanes in South Florida, featuring Fox News Meteorologist & Hurricane Specialist Bryan Norcross, on July 23rd.

“I am very proud to have presented the Hollywood Historical Society Lecture Series for the last eight years,” said Karen Albertson, past HHS president, who coordinates the series. “Each month, we have our regular as well as new guests, and all enjoy our presentations, speakers, and learning about our city’s history. We look forward to adding more and more exciting topics in the future.”

The Lecture Series is just one part of the Hollywood Historical Society’s agenda of activities and events supporting its mission to keep the City’s history alive for current and future generations. Please visit our website for more information.

▸ To learn more about the Hollywood Historical Society, a nonprofit 501(c)(3)* cultural organization founded and operated by volunteers, or to join us, email HollywoodFLHistory@att.net, or visit www.hollywoodhistoricalsociety.org.

The Hollywood Historical Society has over 20,000 items in its collection, and also offers many unique items, including books, historic postcards, photographs, maps, and posters, for sale at the Research Center at its headquarters at Hammerstein House. Please call 954-923-5590 for hours.

BCPS Mandates Clear Backpacks for the 2023/2024 School Year

Effective August 21, 2023, only clear backpacks and bags (purses, duffel bags, fanny packs, lunch boxes, etc.) will be allowed on Broward County Public Schools (BCPS) campuses for students in grades pre-K – 12.

BCPS’s stated purpose of this requirement is to “add an additional layer of safety across the District and provide added safeguards for our students, staff, and faculty. While backpacks are not mandatory, they must be clear, and all contents within the backpack must be visible.”

Clear backpacks have been used as a measure to improve school safety by allowing school officials and security personnel to quickly and easily inspect the contents of students' backpacks. The idea behind clear backpacks is that they can help deter students from bringing weapons or other dangerous items to school, as they know they can be easily seen.

However, the effectiveness of clear

backpacks in improving school safety has never been proven. Some argue that clear backpacks are a superficial solution that doesn't address the root causes of school violence, and that they can create a false sense of security.

Critics also point out that clear backpacks can be stigmatizing and create privacy concerns for students who may feel uncomfortable having their personal belongings on display for others to see at all times. Others argue that transparent backpacks make valuable items like iPads and laptop computers more vulnerable to theft.

To solve the Sudoku puzzle, each row, column and box must contain the numbers 1 to 9. 1 7 39 64 58 2 1 5 4

The new policy applies to students only and does include several exceptions. These include:

• A small non-transparent pouch for personal hygiene items.

• Thermal food containers carried inside clear lunch boxes.

• School-approved sport-specific carrying case for athletic equipment.

• School-approved instrument-specific carrying case for band equipment.

In a 2022 article, Dan Semenza, an assistant professor of criminal justice and director of interpersonal violence research at the Rutgers University-based New Jersey Gun Violence Research Center was skeptical of the clear backpack approach. “There is no evidence that clear backpacks do anything to improve student safety,” Semenza said. “However, studies show that students hate this policy.”

59 4 9 6 2 3 24 5 8

High School Students Awarded Scholarships from Broward League of Cities

To date, the Broward League of Cities Scholarship Program has awarded approximately $54,000 to exemplary students residing in cities across Broward who have showcased strong leadership, communication, and judgment skills throughout their high school careers.

▸ To learn more about the Broward League of Cities visit browardleague.org.

ABOUT THE BROWARD LEAGUE OF CITIES:

On April 20, 2023, the Broward League of Cities (BLOC) awarded four $1,000 scholarships to Broward County high school seniors who will pursue college studies with an emphasis on municipal government. For the past 11 years, the scholarship program has provided financial assistance to future municipal leaders in Broward County.

“This year’s scholarship recipients have shown their eagerness to embrace a higher level of civic education and be a part of their community’s success,” said Bob Mayersohn, President of the Broward League of Cities. “The League is honored to support these future changemakers as they begin their college careers.”

The following students were awarded scholarships:

• Taylor Aks – Currently attending Florida Atlantic University High School with a GPA of 4.00, Taylor is a Parkland resident. She has completed over 816 community service hours and plans to pursue a business management degree and attend law school to help represent communities.

• Jorge Altuna – Currently attending Cypress Bay High School with a GPA of 4.1, Jorge is a Weston resident. He has completed over 385 community service hours and plans to major in political science and public policy

with the goal of encouraging positive change in his community.

• Sophia Safrin – A resident of Cooper City, Sophia currently attends Cooper City High School with a GPA of 3.93. She has completed over 377 community service hours and plans to major in international affairs and pursue a career as a foreign service officer.

• Gianna Villella – A resident of Hollywood, Gianna currently attends ChaminadeMadonna College Preparatory School with a GPA of 4.59. She has completed over 343 community service hours and plans to pursue a career in engineering.

Chartered in 1957, the Broward League of Cities is a non-partisan, non-profit organization dedicated to raising awareness and resolving issues facing Broward County’s 31 cities and municipalities. A member of the Florida League of Cities, which serves to unify local governments throughout the state of Florida, the organization’s membership is made up of elected officials from municipal governments and area businesses. The organization is committed to increasing awareness and providing resolution to issues that affect day-to-day operations of local government, including legislation at the county, state and federal levels.

Steve Pizzillo, Cooper City Mayor Greg Ross, Sophia Safrin, Taylor Aks, Gianna Villella, Jorge Altuna, Youth Leadership Committee Chair Shelly Eichner and Broward League of Cities President Bob Mayersohn

Commissioner Todd Drosky, Youth Leadership Committee Chair Shelley Eichner, Jorge Altuna, Paola Altuna, Jorge Altuna, and Broward League of Cities President Bob Mayersohn

Mark Douglas, Sophia Safrin, Taylor Aks, Gianna Villella, and Jorge Altuna

Broward School Buses Go Electric

Broward County Public Schools (BCPS) will be the first public school District in South Florida to put electric buses on the road, helping lower carbon emissions as it transports 54,000 students throughout the county every school day. The District showcased the new electric buses last month at the district’s transportation terminal in Pompano Beach.

The Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP) awarded the District a grant of more than $14.8 million to purchase 60 zero-emission electric buses that make up the electric bus fleet. The new buses will serve as replacements for older diesel school buses built in or before 2009. To complete the needed infrastructure, Florida Power & Light Company obtained a federal grant and partnered with the BCPS to install charging stations at each of the District’s transportation terminals.

“When these electric buses hit Broward County roads in the 2023/24 school year, our District will be operating the largest fleet of electric buses in the state and, most significantly, taking an important step toward providing a healthier environment for all of us,” said BCPS Interim Superintendent Dr. Earlean Smiley. “This great accomplishment would not have been possible without the support of the Florida Department of Environmental Protection and Florida Power & Light Company.”

“As part of FPL EVolution, we are pleased to partner on this endeavor and provide fast-charging infrastructure at six bus depots for all 60 of the electric buses to power up and be ready

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to pick up students,” said FPL Vice President of Development for Tim Oliver. “These are the first electric school buses in FPL’s service area and represent the future of transportation that helps to make our communities more sustainable for generations to come. These buses will be charged by one of the cleanest electric grids in the country.”

The District’s Student Transportation and Fleet Services Department includes more than 1,200 buses, with about 950 used to transport students during daily routes. Each electric bus is a standard 72-passenger vehicle that produces no emissions at the tailpipe and is quiet on the road.

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Hallandale Magnet High School

Sprints into a SMARTer Future

Students at Hallandale Magnet High School are enjoying the renovations made through the SMART Bond Program, especially the school’s athletes. With a track and field program on the rise, Hallandale Magnet High is showing what is possible for Broward County Public Schools (BCPS) students, especially as the track season begins.

Anthony Shinhoster, director of athletics, has seen the performance of student-athletes improve since the renovations.

“From weights to core work, it has been extremely beneficial in our run of multiple state championships,” said Shinhoster. “However, these renovations affect more than just students ‘performance today. They also have a direct impact on their futures.” Coach Shinhoster added that the updated track has “provided many of our student-athletes the opportunity to receive scholarships at many of the top colleges and universities in the country – the University of Florida, the University of Central Florida, Oklahoma University and Marshall University, just to name a few. Some of our students are the first in their families to be able to attend college and graduate.”

These opportunities have ripple effects on Hallandale Magnet High School. Many of the college scholarship recipients have returned to help coach our current student-athletes.

Aside from the school’s weight room and track renovations, the media center and STEM lab are also undergoing renovations. Additional improvements include upgrades to the HVAC system, fire alarm and sprinkler system, as well as minor building improvements.

Hallandale Magnet High’s renovations total over $9 million, with $400,000 allocated exclusively for athletic improvements that were completed.

The SMART Bond Program has completed all renovations allocated for the athletics portion of the bond. With 15 track field renovations and 30 weight rooms renovated, student-athletes across the county can now get stronger, faster and more agile. BCPS is creating

new futures for these students through the SMART Bond Program.

ABOUT THE SMART PROGRAM

▸ The SMART Bond Program is improving the quality of the BCPS educational experience and making a positive impact on the lives of our students and staff. It has invested $1.4 billion to date and completed 200 of the 232 projects that make up the bond program. It is scheduled to be completed substantially by 2025. To follow each project's progress, visit bcpssmartfutures.com.

Pride Month Is for Everyone This Year!

By: Todd Delmay

Each year in June, Pride is celebrated as an anniversary to the seminal events of June, 1969 in New York City. It was that summer that the local LGBTQ+ community fought harassment and discrimination by sparking the Stonewall Riots in response to a raid of the Stonewall Inn. The protests that followed each night empowered a generation to see that if they were to be liberated and enjoy equality, they would not only have to stand up for themselves, but they needed allies too.

Now, at the federal, state and local levels, progress is made in policy and legislation as well as landmark cases in the Supreme Court. And countless Prides across the country and around the globe recognize the progress made and celebrate everyone that helped make it - including allies! So everyone needs to know that Pride includes them too, especially now.

Florida has become a testing ground for passing anti-LGBTQ+ legislation that rallies a vocal minority to a dying view -

point. Only 20% now oppose same-sex marriage, and 61% think we should be more tolerant of the LGBTQ+ community. How is it then that Florida passed a number of laws this year that threaten the progress made, and the very Pride events that celebrate it?

Florida has a checkered history when it comes to the LGBTQ+ community. In 1956 the Legislature’s Johns Committee outed employees of the Florida state government, and in 1977 Anita Bryant formed the “Save Our Children” campaign to among other things pass legislation preventing gay people from adopting. But with more allies than ever before we prevailed anyway, and overturned the adoption ban in 2010, and won marriage equality for Florida in 2015 before the Supreme Court made it legal nationwide. It isn’t surprising then that the reaction to progress has been trotting out old slurs and falsehood in hopes of scaring people back to their regressive opinions.

If you are an ally, you understand that we must all speak up when someone is unfairly attacked, otherwise next time it could be you. So I encourage you to

find a Pride celebration somewhere this year, and in South Florida we’re fortunate to have Pride events all year. From My Hollywood Pride in January, to Stonewall Pride in June and others as late as November, there are any number of ways to make Pride your own. Pride comes in many shapes and sizes, but if you think there isn’t a Pride for you because you aren’t LGBTQ+, then you’re missing the point. The rainbow flag is a perfect symbol for how everyone fits under its broad spectrum, and that only by seeing it all do you realize together we are the light that shines with human diversity. Happy Pride!

▸ Todd Delmay is a husband and dad, a businessman and entrepreneur, and an activist for civil rights. Todd and his husband were one of six plaintiff couples that sued for the right to marry in Florida, and were the first to marry when the judge lifted her stay in 2015. Besides 25 years in the travel and hospitality industry, Todd is also President of the Dolphin Democrats, Chair of My Hollywood Pride, President of the Hollywood LGBTQ+ Council, and serves on Hollywood’s Sustainability Advisory Committee. To join Todd and the LGBTQ+ Community in organizing, voter registration and turnout, email todd@lgbtqcouncil.com.

Todd Delmay

THE OUR FUND FOUNDATION: Supporting South Florida’s LGBTQ Community Through Philanthropic Giving

The Our Fund Foundation, South Florida’s only LGBTQ-specific community foundation, is an unparalleled resource and lifeline for many LGBTQ nonprofits and marginalized residents. Its mission is to promote philanthropy, manage enduring investments and conduct impactful grant-making to improve the lives of LGBTQ people in South Florida.

Despite Greater Fort Lauderdale’s recognition as Florida’s LGBTQ capital and home to the largest percentage of samesex couple households in the country, support for organizations focused on uplifting the disenfranchised members of this community was lacking until 2011, when a small group of committed activist philanthropists who recognized that a concentration of LGBTQ wealth existed in South Florida, establishe d Our Fund

Seeking to remedy the deficit of giving to LGBTQ organizations and committed to keeping financial resources within the community, Our Fund has been on an upward trajectory ever since its launch, growing into the third-largest LGBTQ foundation in the nation over the past 13 years.

“By inclusively uniting individuals, institutions, and resources from throughout the region, The Our Fund Foundation inspires responsible giving and works to actively secure the LGBTQ community’s future for generations to come,” said

David Jobin, President & CEO of The Our Fund Foundation

As South Florida’s LGBTQ population grows, so does the corresponding need for targeted support, whether focused on the unmet needs of youth, women, older people, transgender people, or others. Our Fund’s grant programs and philanthropic initiatives address social justice, funding for arts and culture, HIV/AIDS, and other crucial issues in need of support.

“Through our grant programs, philanthropic initiatives, community networking, and educational efforts, we’re able to strengthen community organizations and their leaders, mobilize donors and funders, and strive to make South Florida the most livable community in the country for LGBTQ people,” said Jobin.

How does it work?

The concept is logical: Unite donors with worthy LGBTQ causes they care about, particularly in this worrisome political climate.

“With LGBTQ lives and livelihoods under threat in the state of Florida and beyond, The Our Fund Foundation is fervent in its commitment to protect and uplift South Florida’s LGBTQ community,” said Jobin.

The Our Fund Foundation is unmatched in its impact on the lives of LGBTQ people and causes, with annual investments currently of $1.5–$2M in South Florida LGBTQ causes; in the tradition of community foundations across the country, Our Fund promotes legacy giving, enabling

philanthropists to leave lasting legacies for specific causes and agencies through estate planning. It also manages an Annual Fund and Donor Advised Funds, allowing donors to maximize impact and minimize tax burdens. Thanks to the thoughtful planning of its generous Legacy Society members, Our Fund is able to take a strategic, longterm view of resources that will be needed in the future and how they will be deployed.

With the goal of increasing its grantmaking capabilities and continuing to improve the lives of LGBTQ people, Our Fund takes its fiduciary responsibilities very seriously.

“At The Our Fund Foundation, we are committed to being good stewards of every contribution entrusted to us,” said Mark Blaylock, the organization’s CFO. “We firmly believe in financial transparency with our supporters and the community.”

Our Fund has about $25 million in assets, largely thanks to its proactive board of directors and other loyal supporters. With committed Legacy Donors, it is on a trajectory to double its asset base over the next two years.

Given the organization’s impressive accomplishments so far, that seems like an attainable goal.

▸ The Our Fund Foundation is located at 1201 NE 26th Street, Suite 108, in Wilton Manors, FL 33305. Please scan the QR code, visit our-fund.org or call 954-565-1090.

David Jobin, President & CEO The Our Fund Foundation

A SYMPHONY OF CHANGE: Celebrating the Gay Men’s Chorus of South Florida

In a diverse world, unity is an anthem we all strive to sing. As we observe Pride Month, we celebrate an organization singing this anthem with unmatched enthusiasm - the Gay Men’s Chorus of South Florida (GMCSF).

With a mission that echoes, “We sing so that LGBTQ+ people can live their truth through quality music experiences that inspire audiences, open minds, change hearts, and affirm our common humanity,” GMCSF has carved a niche for itself in the hearts of many. Over 170 dedicated members representing a rich spectrum of backgrounds comprise this harmonious force, making GMCSF a deep reflection of the LGBTQ+ community ’s strength in diversity.

The group’s Artistic Director, Gabe Salazar, looks forward to presenting Disney PRIDE in Concert live in June at The Parker. “This concert is a unique music program that everyone will relate to. I am most excited about seeing it all come together: our singers and personal stories throughout the concert, the orchestra, the movie projections.”

But GMCSF’s commitment extends beyond creating beautiful harmonies. The members are role models, philanthropists, and catalysts of change. Their tireless efforts reach across Broward, Miami Dade, and Palm Beach counties, impacting the lives of countless individuals and communities. Bill Spinosa, a

By: Edward Otto Zielke

founding member and Vice President of Membership, has seen this organization’s significant impact on our community. “It is wonderful to see that we have opened up hearts, changed minds, and given a voice to the voiceless and hope to the hopeless throughout our community through our music and message. That was our intent from the beginning, and it has expressed itself differently for the past thir teen years.”

The true impact of GMCSF, however, reverberates far beyond their music. By fostering a space of acceptance and respect, GMCSF stands as a fundamental pillar of support in the LGBTQ+ community. Live performances in high-profile venues and community engagements touch the hearts of over 20,000 people annually, making GMCSF one of the most prominent LGBTQ+ nonprofit choruses nationwide.

As we commemorate Pride Month, let’s honor institutions like GMCSF, who work tirelessly toward a future where diversity is celebrated, and unity is a universal anthem. Their vision paints a picture of “A diverse world united.” Yet, through their music and community outreach, they’re not just singing this vision - they’re living it, one harmony at a time. Their voices remind us of the profound truth of the LGBTQ+ community: love is love, diversity is strength, and our collective pride is an unending symphony of progress and acceptance.

▸ To learn more about the Gay Men’s Chorus of South Florida or purchase tickets, visit www.gmcsf.org, or scan the QR code.

SAGE—Celebrating our LGBTQ+ Elder Community with Pride!

By: Mitchell Zahn, Program Coordinator SAGE South Florida Friendly Visitor Program

The city of Wilton Manors will be celebrating Stonewall Pride this year on June 17. Pride celebrations allow us to embrace and celebrate the breadth and diversity of our LGBTQ+ community. Despite their contributions to the fight for LGBTQ+ rights, our older community members are often forgotten in our celebrations. These pioneers fought for the rights that we enjoy today and remind us to be vigilant in the presence of forces actively trying to set the clock back to a time when our community was forced to b e invisible and live on the fringes of society.

By 2030, studies project the population of LGBTQ+ people over 50 to reach 7 million. Our elders have unique needs compared to the general population, and because of discrimination and marginalization in their earlier lives, which have created a wide variety of challenges to endure today.

Many age without proper community support, are in poor health and are more likely to be financially insecure. One-third of LGBTQ+ adults live at or below 200% of the federal poverty level. Many experience mental health challenges and experience higher levels of disability compared to heterosexual older people, as well as delaying necessary medical care due to fears of discrimination or mistreatment by healthcare staff. And most LGBTQ+ elders do not have children, often relying on friends and neighbors for needed help, many of whom have similar needs.

Fighting for LGBTQ+ Elders

Since 1978

For 40-plus years, SAGE has worked tirelessly for LGBTQ+ older people. Building off the momentum of the Stonewall uprising and the emerging LGBTQ+ civil rights movement, a group of activists came together to ensure that LGBTQ+ older people could

age with respect and dignity. SAGE formed a support network for LGBTQ+ elders that is still growing today. SAGE is more than just an organization. It’s a movement of loving, caring activists dedicated to providing advocacy, services, and support to older members of the LGBTQ+ community. LGBTQ+ elders fought— and still fight—for our rights. And we will never stop fighting for theirs.

Friendly Visitor Program in For t Lauderdale

SAGE in Florida offers a Friendly Visitor program in Broward County to provide social support to older adults. The program assists individuals like a 60-year-old woman with gardening and a dyslexic 78-year-old man who receives help reading his mail. In Miami-Dade County, SAGE supports at-risk LGBTQ+ elders with care management, emergency financial assistance, and aid for medical bills, rent, and food.

Older LGBTQ+ individuals are more prone to social isolation, twice as likely to live alone and be single, and significantly less likely to have children than their non-LGBTQ+ peers. SAGE addresses these challenges by offering the Friendly Visitor program in Fort Lauderdale, inspired by its successful program in New York City. Volunteers visit and call homebound elders weekly, providing social support from Sunshine Cathedral, an LGBTQ+ affirming Metropolitan Community Church.

Friendly Visitor volunteers undergo careful screening and training and commit to at least a year of involvement. They attend regular meetings, visit for an hour or two

once a week, and make additional calls. When someone seeks SAGE ’s help, a Program Coordinator conducts an initial assessment and, with the client’s consent, refers them to a suitable, Friendly Visitor for ongoing support.

Happy Pride!

As we honor our diverse community, we also recognize the journey we’ve traversed since the days of the Stonewall uprising. Our LGBTQ+ elders have set a robust foundation for our rights, a battle they continue to fight today. We must remember this history and stay alert to preserve these hard-earned rights. We are responsible for keeping their legacy alive by continuing their fight and creating a safer and more accepting world. Remember, every step forward in this journey is a step towards equality and acceptance for all. Let’s keep moving forward together!

▸ If you are interested in becoming a volunteer or a participant of the program, email Program Manager Mitchell Zahn at mzahn@sageusa. org or call 646-568-9354. Scan the QR code to learn more abour SAGE or visit the www.sageusa.org.

Mitchell Zahn, Program Coordinator SAGE South Florida Friendly Visitor Program

HOLLYWOOD UPDATE

By Mayor Josh Levy

In 1956, as the world was still recovering from World War II, President Dwight D. Eisenhower hosted a White House conference on how citizen diplomacy could improve international relations. One of the outcomes of this conference was the establishment of the People to People Program, which later grew into the concept of Sister Cities, through which cities from different parts of the world would pair with one another in order to facilitate cultural exchange and economic cooperation between their people. Since then, the number of Sister Cities has flourished, with thousands of partnerships formed between cities across continents.

During the 1990’s and 2000’s, our city established eight Sister City relationships around the world - with Baia Mare, Romania; Herzliya, Israel; Lecheria, Venezuela; Higuey, Dominican Republic; Vlorë, Albania; Roquebrune-Cap-Martin, France; Guatemala City, Guatemala and Ciudad de la Costa, in Uruguay.

This year, we added a ninth Sister City relationship for our city, when on May 10th, we signed a ceremonial Sister City Agreement with Laayoune, Morocco - our first new Sister City in 20 years. Laayoune, named after the natural oasis that provides the city with its source of water, is the capital of the Laayoune-Sakia El Hamra region of Morocco and is located in the mineral rich Sahara desert along the Atlantic coast of Northwest Africa. Laayoune is a city with great history and culture, and its people are warm and welcoming. It is an important economic hub, with long established fishing and mining industries and healthcare and education sectors that are in the midst of undergoing monumental investments. A bright future is ahead for Laayoune, and we are excited about the opportunity for our two cities to cooperate in a variety of areas to promote business and cultural exchange. Please look out for the Sister City programming that we hope to bring in the months and years ahead as we reinvigorate our city’s international outreach and friendships - one handshake at a time.

Sincerely,

Josh Levy Mayor of Hollywood