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Emmys behind the scenes market kicks off awards season

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The RuPaul’s Drag Race team accepts their award at the 71st Emmy Awards. (Photo by Invision/AP)

The LGBTQ community and their allies have been riding on a high since the 71st annual Primetime Emmy Awards took place. Among the many poignant moments during the awards ceremony—Patricia Arquette lamenting the loss of her trans sibling, Alexis; Laverne Cox delivering that powerful speech on Supreme Court cases and the masterful Billy Porter making history as the first openly gay man winning the Best Actor Emmy.

Los Angeles Blade’s Susan Hornik went behind the scenes at numerous award events to discuss the ramifications of these moments.

HBO After Party

As always, events designer Billy Butchkavitz created stunning decor for the Pacific Design Center extravaganza, an event he has worked on for the past 21 years.

His vision for the party: “what would have happened if photographer Helmut Newton and artist Bjorn Wiinnblad had collaborated on a party. My color palette used varying shades of gray, black, taupe and gold.”

A jubilant Ross Mathews, a judge on the series, “Ru Paul’s Drag Race,” was walking on cloud nine after their win. “I grew up when there were no shows like this on the air. It would have been really nice to have had that. I would have skipped the whole part where I wondered if I was good enough.”

Mathews noted that with a series that has been on for 12 seasons like this, kids are watching. “They see us being celebrated. And so, the show just existing is a good thing for lgbtqia+ viewers all over the world. But then to see us invited into an awards event and then up on the winner’s stage, is an extraordinary stamp of approval. It shows kids that they can be honored. That’s what I think, both times now, when we are privileged to be nominated and then win.”

Mathew’s latest book, “Name Drop,” will be out February and is able for pre order.

Drag queen Nina West, who was a contestant on “Drag Race,” acknowledged the importance of Porter winning the Emmy.

“It’s really great to see someone living so fiercely and loudly, living their truth and being so amazing at what they do. This man has lifted up and blazing trails for people like me.”

When asked what it’s going to take to have the world be a more inclusive place, West replied: “it’s going to take people going to the polls and voting. And we have a really good chance with changing who is in the White House. Kindness begets kindness; we have to learn how to get that back to our political process.”

The Gifting Suites: Doris Bergman

John Brotherton, currently starring as Matt Harmon on Netflix’s Fuller House. (Photo by Susan Hornik)

At Weho’s Fig & Olive, Doris Bergman hosted her annual luxury lounge and party, with over 100 of Hollywood’s actors, Emmy® winners, presenters, stylists and industry VIPS. Hosted by Buywine.com the event was presented by Precious Vodka and fashion designer, PRSVR.

‘Designers are back to using hand painting as an embellishment on new denim designs,” noted owner Margaret Williamson.

Gay entrepreneurs Angelo Ortiz of Browlesque and Victor of Influence Effect were thrilled to be a part of the event. “It’s great to be able to gift all the fantastic attendees here,” the duo said. “We feel like this is a great opportunity to meet celebs and press.”

In the spirit of giving back, guests and sponsors gave donations and donated unwrapped gifts for young adults (ages 13-18) for a Pre-Holiday Gift Drive benefiting ‘Wednesday’s Child’ — a weekly segment airing on KTTV FOX 11 News, Los Angeles, with anchor Christine Devine.

‘Wednesday’s Child’ highlights ‘harder to place’ young adults in the LA County foster care system who are in need of adoptive families. “In Los Angeles County, alone, there are over 30,000 children receiving child welfare services,” noted social worker, Dr. William Wong. Bergman loves to invites two foster youth to join in on the gift lounge, so that they experience the VIP treatment.

The nominees were thrilled with the impressive luxury fashion, from Art Lewin Bespoke Tuxedos and Suits and Sue Wong Couture gowns. The awards event presented an array of gifts provided by Green Goddess Collective; Popcornopolis; Spa Girl Cocktails; Zirconmania; Diamond Veneer; Author Kathlyn Heim; Precious Vodka; Twisted Silver; Debbi DiMaggio; Hint; Pia Gladys Perey Designs; O Skin & Med Spa; Browlesque; Buywine.com; Charise Noel Jewelry; My Saint My Hero Blessing Bracelets; Beauty Kitchen; True Gold Honey; LuLaRoe Clothing; Pachamama CBD Products; PRSVR; Beviva Foods; Kam Shield; Lucy Pet Foundation Dog Treats; Harvest Snaps; Sea Snacks; Green Goo Skin Care; Dog TV; Rock Your Hair; The Hollywood Trinity; Emmy’s Hope Dog Accessories; and Cameo Social Media App.

The Gifting Suites: GBK Productions

Indya Moore, star of EMMY nominated Pose on the GBK red carpet receives a personalized gift basket from celebrity stylist Chaz Dean of WEN haircare. (Photo by Kirsten Moore)

GBK Productions’ CEO Gavin Keilly hosted their annual Celebrity Luxury Gifting Lounge at the Beverly Wilshire Hotel. At this exclusive event, stars received over $75K in gifts and trips.

Indya Moore, one of the stars of “Pose,” received a personalized gift basket from celebrity hair stylist, Chaz Dean, who owns WEN haircare.

“I love Chaz, his hair products are amazing,” enthused Moore. “One of the few I have used that have made my hair so luscious and beautiful. And it smells so good!”

Quipped Dean: “I met Indya but I feel like I have known them my whole life. They are a force of nature who keeps doing incredible things. Use your voice baby! They are changing the world which is so needed!”

Many celebs attending loved checking out Emeril Lagasse’s latest product, the Power AirFryer 360 and Genie True Lift Comfort Bra. Vendors also gifted items from Burke Williams Spa, Tristar Cookware, KHI Luxury bathroom products and Spryng compression wraps.

The attendees were excited to receive fantastic trips to Jamaica by S Hotel Montego Bay, Turks and Caicos by Sailrock, Fiji by Raiwasa Fiji and Nashville by Fit Farm. Other popular items were Skin Care by Dermafirm, Beauty Pulse and Aztec Secret; Jewelry & Watches by Al Capone Watches, Filienna and B Opulent; Food & Alcohol by Hestan Wines, Hertelendy Wines, Vitani Spirits, Butterfly Superfood, Cocopotamus Truffles, Joe’s Coffee and Blue Farm Pinot Noir; Clothing by True Tailor, Booty Sprout; House and Home items by Athenaromas and Simple Modern; Catrise Austin Dentistry teeth whitening, Huggaroo weighted blankets, Just Food for Dogs, Harborside Cannabis, Austere Wear sunglasses, a stay at La Peer Hotel and dining with Pacifique LA. Covenant House was the official charity on-site. Décor was provided by George Flowers,

The Gifting Suite: Secret Room Event Red Carpet Retreat

Many nominees, celebrities, media and press were invited to attend Secret Room Events Red Carpet Retreat. Benefiting Best Friends Animal Society and Omics LIVE. One of their highlights was a special full service cannabis bar, From The Earth – a vertically integrated cannabis enterprise whuch was named one of Southern California’s top dispensaries, This is the exclusive cannabis partner of the Red Carpet Retreat and the first ever cannabis bar to be offered at a gift lounge.

Dog owners were thrilled to meet two 14 year olds, Hailey Hertzman and Katie Vonder Haar, who started their own business, Ooh La Lemon. “We offer clothing, accessories and gifts that are fun, fruity and trendy and appeal to the young and young at heart,” said Hertzman.

Among the many items gifted were Wolfgang Puck Coffee, wine from Anne Amie Vineyards, and Primo water, which supplies eco-friendly, healthy water choices to help stay hydrated. Toni&Guy Hair offered guests topknot, braid and wave hair services and nail polish changes.

Other amazing vendors included Rafia Jewelry, handmade, customizable jewelry that draws influence from the beautiful landscapes that surround and has been worn by many celebrities; Sleevey Wonders – slip-on sleeves made to wear under your sleeveless clothes to magically transform your outfit into something new; and Zatik Naturals – beauty products made using fresh raw botanicals cultivated along the Pacific coast without any preservatives, parabens, synthetic ingredients, petrochemicals, artificial colors, or fragrances

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Events

Beverly Hills Pet Festival returns with doggy adoptions, family activities

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Even the dogs know 90210 is the zip code that offers the best treats.

Beverly Hills is known for high-end shopping, $500 haircuts, pampering at every turn and a few famous and infamous celebrity homes. But this Sunday it’s going to the dogs — at least for one day.

Beverly Hills will host its annual Doggy Daze 90210 festival next Sunday at Roxbury Park, transforming the grassy expanse known as “Wiggly Field” into a hub for pet adoptions, entertainment and family activities.

The free event, running from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Nov. 3, aims to connect homeless pets with potential owners while celebrating the bond between humans and animals.

“This is more than just a pet festival — it’s about building community and helping animals in need,” said Dana Besen, spokesperson for the City of Beverly Hills, which organizes the event.

Five rescue organizations, including The Amanda Foundation and Wags and Walks, will bring adoptable pets to the festival. A highlight of the day will be a pet parade featuring costumed animals, followed by a talent contest.

Cody, Los Angeles Blade’s mascot, pictured here at Roxbury Park’s Wiggly Field as a pup. Cody, a survivor of a spinal stroke who is now wheelchair bound, will be on hand to represent dogs with disabilities. (Photo By Troy Masters)

30 vendors will line the park, offering everything from luxury pet spa services to gourmet pet food. Even Shake Shack is getting in on the action, selling special “pup cups” for four-legged attendees.

For children, the festival will feature an arts and crafts zone, face painting, and library story time sessions. Food trucks will be onsite throughout the day.

The event has attracted notable local support, with Beverly Hills residents Lili and Jon Bosse serving as gold sponsors. Owen Care and Foo Dee Doo Press have also signed on as sponsors.

To manage the expected crowds, organizers have arranged free parking at Beverly Hills High School, with pet-friendly shuttles running to and from the park from 10:45 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Last year’s event drew hundreds of attendees and resulted in so many pet adoptions, according to city officials, that the event is now one of the most popular the city hosts. They expect an even larger turnout this year.

The festival comes as animal shelters across Los Angeles County report high numbers of pets needing homes, making events like Doggy Daze increasingly important for connecting animals with potential adopters.

Roxbury Park is located at 471 S. Roxbury Drive in Beverly Hills. More information about the event can be found at beverlyhills.org/csevents.

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Arts & Entertainment

This Bunny is not for everybunny 

Lady Bunny Warns ‘Don’t Bring the Kids’ to her LA Show

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Lady Bunny (Photo courtesy of Lady Bunny)

Drag legend Lady Bunny is back in Los Angeles in “Don’t Bring the Kids,” her laugh-out-loud comedy show that has been selling out venues nationwide. Known for her towering wigs, sharp wit, and fearless attitude, Bunny’s latest revue delivers everything fans love about her—and more. On Saturday, October 19, at 6 p.m., “Don’t Bring the Kids” lands at The Vault in the Beverly Center, promising an early evening of pure, unfiltered entertainment that’s definitely not for the faint of heart.

So, what can fans expect from Lady Bunny this time around? True to form, “Don’t Bring the Kids” is packed with jaw-dropping moments, from parodies of pop icons like Adele and Cardi B to an original dance tune called “Is It Ozempic, Or…”, based on Bunny’s distorted views of the popular weight-loss drug. “The show is a mix of musical styles,” Bunny explains.  It even includes a dishy number about some of your favorite queens from RuPaul’s Drag Race. “I tease Trixie Mattel for stealing my look, call out Willam for being a whore, and do a remake of ‘Big Dick Energy’ about Yvie Oddly. Let’s just say the rumors are true,” she says.

“Drag Race has given me plenty of material,” she reflects.  “I love poking fun at the queens, and I always update my act with topical humor.”

“Don’t Bring the Kids” isn’t merely about drag celebrity gossip. Bunny tackles serious issues, like defending drag queen story hours in the face of conservative backlash. “As I say in the show, ‘Look at my wig. I can barely groom myself!’” Bunny quips. 

There’s also a parody of the viral spat between Marjorie Taylor Greene and Representative Jasmine Crockett, and Bunny takes the opportunity to unveil her brand-new bitch track, “Pussy This Good”, out now on all platforms.

Lady Bunny (Photo courtesy of Lady Bunny)

The performance pushes boundaries, and Bunny admits that’s exactly the point. “I came up in the late-night NYC club scene where we were encouraged to be as wild and dirty as possible. My humor isn’t for everyone, and it’s certainly not for kids — hence the title.”

“Don’t Bring the Kids” is both a warning and a promise. Bunny makes it clear that her comedy is strictly for mature audiences, with jokes and performances that might be too much even for some adults. “I’ve always felt it’s important to be upfront,” she continues. “I love dark, raunchy humor, and that’s what my audience comes for. Every show so far has gotten a standing ovation, and we’ve sold out in Philly, DC, and San Francisco.”

For Bunny, bringing her show to LA, particularly at The Vault, is an exciting opportunity. “I’ve worked with Voss Events (the show’s producer) for years, and they found this fantastic space.  I DJed there this past New Year’s Eve, and it’s perfect — great stage, excellent sound. I’m excited to be back in LA, a city that always knows how to appreciate a little twisted drag humor.”

Of course, no Lady Bunny interview would be complete without a few words about her longtime friendship with Troy Masters, publisher of LA Blade. “Troy and I go way back,” Bunny recalls. “One of my first magazine covers was for Outweek, a publication he ran back in the ’80s.  I was still thin then and working my own blonde hair! He’s been such a supporter, even hiring me to work as a phone monitor for his boyfriend’s sex line. I’d pop onto the leather line in a queeny voice, calling myself ‘Humphrey Davenport, dominant top.’ The leather guys hated it, but I thought it was hilarious.”

Lady Bunny presents “Don’t Bring the Kids” at The Vault in the Beverly Center on Saturday, October 19th at 6pm.  For ticket’s visit VossEvents.com.

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AIDS and HIV

40th anniversary AIDS Walk happening this weekend in West Hollywood

AIDS Project Los Angeles Health will gather in West Hollywood Park to kick off 40th anniversary celebration

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35th Annual AIDS Walk Los Angeles. Grand Park Downtown Los Angeles (Photo Courtesy Brian Lowe)

APLA Health will celebrate its 40th anniversary this Sunday at West Hollywood Park, by kicking off the world’s first and oldest AIDS walk with a special appearance by Salina Estitties, live entertainment, and speeches.

APLA Health, which was formerly known as AIDS Project Los Angeles, serves the underserved LGBTQ+ communities of Los Angeles by providing them with resources. 

“We are steadfast in our efforts to end the HIV epidemic in our lifetime. Through the use of tools like PrEP and PEP, the science of ‘undetectable equals intransmissible,’ and our working to ensure broad access to LGTBQ+ empowering healthcare, we can make a real step forward in the fight to end this disease,” said APLA Health’s chief executive officer, Craig E. Thompson. 

For 40 years, APLA Health has spearheaded programs, facilitated healthcare check-ups and provided other essential services to nearly 20,000 members of the LGBTQ+ community annually in Los Angeles, regardless of their ability to pay. 

APLA Health provides LGBTQ+ primary care, dental care, behavioral healthcare, HIV specialty care, and other support services for housing and nutritional needs.

The AIDS Walk will begin at 10AM and registrations are open for teams and solo walkers. More information can be found on the APLA Health’s website.  

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Arts & Entertainment

LGBTQ+Ñ Literary Festival kicks off this week in Los Angeles

The festival will bring together authors, readers, academics and activists to discuss their experiences and share perspectives about the LGBTQ+ community.

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The first LGBTQ+Ñ Literary Festival in Spanish – the first of its kind – will kick-off six days of panels, short film screenings, book signings, performances and a photo exhibit starting today, at different locations across Los Angeles. 

The LGBTQ+Ñ Literary Festival will bring together Spanish-speaking and Latin American writers who explore and celebrate a variety of themes in their work, including sexual diversity and perspectives on identity. 

“Feminist culture and LGBTQ+ culture have been the movements that have most transformed modern societies in recent decades, and therefore deserve special attention,” said Luisgé Martín, director of Instituto Cervantes of Los Ángeles. “There was no stable forum that brought together creators from across the Spanish-speaking world, which is why we have organized this literary festival. It aims to serve as a framework for reflection and a meeting point for LGBTQ+ writers.” 

The festival will bring together authors, readers, academics and activists, to discuss their experiences and share perspectives about the LGBTQ+ community and its academic intersections. 

The first stop for the literary festival is at the Instituto Cervantes of Los Ángeles, from 7 PM to 9 PM on Tuesday, to screen short films that are part of FanCineQueer. 

The festival will feature authors like Myriam Gurba Serrano, Alejandro Córdova “Taylor”, Felipe J. Garcia, Boris Izaguirre, Nando López, María Mínguez Arias, Felipe Restrepo Pombo, Claudia Salazar Jiménez, Pablo Simonetti, and Gabriela Wiener. 

There will also be a photo exhibit and featured photographers such as Gonza Gallego and Liliana Hueso. 

The festival will take place at multiple venues including the Instituto Cervantes of Los Ángeles, The Student Union at Los Angeles City College and Circus of Books. 

For more information on the event visit the Instagram page for Instituto Cervantes of Los Ángeles. 

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Events

Latino Equality Alliance hosts quinceañera fundraiser

LEA’s mission with this event, is also to bring attention to Proposition 3 – which puts same-sex marriage on the November ballot. 

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The Latino Equality Alliance hosted its annual fundraiser on Saturday at Del Records in Bell Gardens as their quinceañera-themed Purple Lily Awards raises nearly $100,000 to create safe spaces for Latin American LGBTQ+ youth and their families. 

This year, LEA honored co-founder Gutiérrez Arámbula, RuPaul’s Drag Race Season 15 Contestant, Salina Estitties, and the Liberty Hill Foundation. 

“The Latino Equality Alliance’s history and survival underscores the importance of providing critical resources and positive support for LGBTQ+ youth struggling to find a safe space,” said founder and executive director Eddie Martinez. “We are proud to have stood shoulder to shoulder with the Latinx community for 15 years and are excited about the promising future ahead of us.”

LEA’s mission with this event, is also to bring attention to Proposition 3 – which puts same-sex marriage on the November ballot. 

Proposition 3 seeks to reaffirm the right to same-sex marriage. 

This proposition shines light on the California Constitution that still to this day upholds language that does not include gender non-conforming people or queer and trans people in the protections for marriage equality. 

The CA Constitution says ‘only marriage between a man and a woman is valid or recognized in California,’ which also only upholds protections and recognition for same-race couples, excluding interracial families, as well as LGBTQ+ families. 

That language — while still on the books — is effectively void after the U.S. Supreme Court in 2013 allowed same-sex marriage to resume in California, and the high court legalized same-sex marriage nationwide in a historic 2015 decision. 

Upholding protections for marriage equality is important to LEA because California has the largest LGBTQ+ population in the United States. 

The grassroots organization is celebrating continued growth in their progress toward equality and celebrating the achievements of the Latin American community members that are at the forefront of creating safe spaces in Boyle Heights and beyond. 

LEA was the first community and school LGBTQ youth civic policy advocacy and empowerment program to lower dropout rates, bullying and increase graduation rates.

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Events

GALECA: Society of LGBTQ Entertainment Critics and Hollywood Creative Alliance unite for 2024 Dorians TV Toast and Astra TV Awards

Event to take place at Avalon Hollywood on Aug. 18

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(Courtesy photo)

(July 30, 2024) — The Hollywood Creative Alliance (HCA) and GALECA: The Society of LGBTQ Entertainment Critics announced today that they are joining forces this year to present their respective Dorians TV Toast party and Astra TV Awards ceremony in back-to-back events. The paired celebrations, during which each group will reveal their top choices in television and streaming, will take place on Sunday, Aug. 18, at the Avalon Hollywood.

The 2024 Dorian Awards TV Toast, an intimate champagne-and-appetizers gathering of GALECA nominees and members, will start at 3 p.m., leading into HCA’s larger 2024 TV Astras ceremony at 6 p.m. Helping cap the Astras gala, the organizations will present their new, jointly sponsored Mosaic Award to a TV or streaming series “that captures the power of diversity, equity and inclusion in a polished, entertaining and seamless way,” both on and behind the camera.

GALECA and HCA’s collaboration, likely the first of its kind, marks a show of solidarity for professional entertainment journalists, and journalism itself, at a time when AI, industry strikes, layoffs, media outlet closures, decreasing pay and more threaten the field’s existence.

“In such difficult and divisive times, Hollywood Creative Alliance will continue to lift up those underrepresented in the media,” said Scott Menzel, CEO of HCA. “Our GALECA partnership is one way HCA can stand by that commitment and make an impact.”

“GALECA is grateful for the opportunity to work with the HCA,” added GALECA Executive Director John Griffiths. “Our groups are on the same page — and now, red carpet — when it comes to pressing for a media world where all walks of life have a strong voice. I think we’re all excited to figure out more ways our groups can champion each other’s missions.”

HCA plans to present additional special honors of its own at the Astra TV Awards, which will be broadcast live from the Avalon Hollywood and streamed globally on YouTube and KNEKT.tv.

Outside of special non-transactional, board-chosen accolades such as the Mosaic Award, the nominees and winners of HCA’s Astra Awards and GALECA’s Dorian Awards are all decided in democratic fashion by the groups’ respective memberships.

About GALECA

GALECA: The Society of LGBTQ Entertainment Critics and its Dorian Awards honor the best in film, television and, under its theater wing, Broadway and Off-Broadway. More than 500 members strong, GALECA reminds society that the world values the informed Q+ eye on everything entertainment. A nonprofit organization, GALECA also advocates for better pay, access and respect for entertainment journalists, especially the underrepresented. Follow us @DorianAwards on social media, and find more information at GALECA.org.

About the Hollywood Creative Alliance

The Hollywood Creative Alliance, commonly called HCA, is a membership-based, not-for-profit organization. Its diverse and inclusive membership includes critics, entertainment journalists, content creators, industry insiders, and creatives with a shared passion for celebrating excellence in entertainment. The HCA’s vision and mission is to amplify diversity, equity, inclusion, accessibility, and culture in film and television. HCA believes in creating a culture where representation is a critical component of the evolution of the entertainment industry. For more information please visit TheAstras.com.

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Arts & Entertainment

LGBTQ representation shines at San Diego Comic-Con 2024

Annual event promotes inclusiveness.

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(Photo courtesy of San Diego Comic-Con 2024)

San Diego Comic-Con 2024 once again became a mecca for gender-bending cosplay, with attendees cross-dressing as characters like Spider-Man, Beetlejuice, Elphaba from “Wicked,” Pennywise, and Peter Pan.

Gay attendee Rick Rhoades was thrilled with the detailed costumes.

“I loved seeing all the LGBTQ characters — it was such a pleasant surprise to see the Ambiguously Gay Duo from ‘Saturday Night Live!'” he said.

“So many people dressed up, it’s just as amazing as the show itself!” Rhoades added.

Cosplayer Casey Hayden told the Los Angeles Blade, “I love being able to express myself freely. Regardless of your pronouns, being able to get out of your comfort zone and dress as your favorite superheroes is so interesting and powerful.”

Stephanie Tillotson, a clinical therapist for children and an LGBTQ ally, appreciates how Comic-Con promotes inclusiveness.

“This is a safe and positive event for our LGBTQ community, where they can cosplay as their gender of choice and be treated with respect,” she said.

Tillotson participates in Dungeons & Dragons activities throughout the 4-day event.

“D&D is a wonderful role-playing game where attendees can become a character and be whatever gender they want,” she explained.

The 10th Annual Her Universe Fashion Show kicked off Comic-Con with a standing-room-only crowd. Broadway star Michael James Scott, who co-hosted, performed Katy Perry’s “Roar.”

“What an absolute dream to be part of an event that celebrates who you are,” Scott said. “To be invited back by Her Universe founder Ashley Eckstein and to do it with my husband is a true dream come true!”

Prism Comics, a nonprofit supporting LGBTQ-friendly comic books and professionals, had a lively presence on the convention floor and participated in several queer panels.

The organization celebrated the 10th anniversary of its “Still Transgender, Still Here: Trans and Nonbinary Comics Yesterday, Today, and Tomorrow” panel. Tara Madison Avery moderated, joined by panelists Tilly Bridges, Alex Combs, Liam Coballes, Nicole Maines, Sonya Saturday, and Gaia WXYZ.

Prism also participated in a Queer Horror panel, moderated by screenwriter Michael Varrati. The discussion explored the LGBTQ community’s relationship with the horror genre and whether a distinct queer horror genre exists.

“Thanks to this amazing lineup for a truly insightful discussion,” Varrati tweeted. “Horror IS Queer! #sdcc”

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Events

WeHo is co-sponsoring 1st ever Inglewood Pride Festival, June 22

The pride event, co-sponsored by the City of West Hollywood, will offer live entertainment, DJ sets, and free food

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Graphic: Creative House Gallery/WeHo Times

By Paulo Murillo | WEST HOLLYWOOD – The City of West Hollywood is co-sponsoring the first annual Inglewood Pride Festival in the City of Inglewood on Saturday, June 22, 2024. Events are set to take place at the Creative House Gallery at 122 N Market Street and outdoors in the Historic Market Street Shopping District.

The pride event, co-sponsored by the City of West Hollywood, will offer live entertainment, DJ sets, and free food. An RSVP was required and has already sold out.

Inglewood Pride Festival 2024 will be an indoor/outdoor event with plenty of options to captivate and educate the community. Booths will provide resources to the LGBTQ+ community, and there will be a wide range of sponsor vendors. The festival offers free food, free entry, and a family-friendly environment.

The Los Angeles Department of Public Health will also be on hand to provide mpox vaccinations and offer information and resources on various health concerns, including COVID-19 vaccines.

The event schedule is as follows:

GALLERY SECTION
12:00 PM to 1:00 PM
Guest Red Carpet Photos
$50 Grocery Gift for Best Dressed

CABANA SECTION
12:00 PM to 3:00 PM
DJ TLA Storm
70s, 80s, 90s R&B/Soul/Deep

GALLERY
2:00 PM to 3:00 PM
County of Los Angeles Presentation (Cholesterol)
Roberto Luno, Emergency Preparedness; Public Health Nurse, Einique Forris, Health Educator

CABANA
3:00 PM to 6:00 PM
Di P-Nasty
Hip-Hop/R&B/Latin; Dance Contest

CABANA
6:00 PM to 7:30 PM
Artist Performances

To learn more about this event, visit:
Inglewood Pride Festival

The Creative House Non-Profit:

The Creative House Gallery is a non-profit art gallery with a goal of helping the community transition, survive, develop, and thrive through art access and art education.

The Creative House Gallery is committed to enhancing the quality of life through artistic programming that serves all ages, ethnicities, backgrounds, and economic statuses, with an emphasis on marginalized, underserved, and underrepresented persons.

The Market Street Shopping District:

Since Inglewood’s founding in 1908, Market Street has served as the central shopping district. When automobiles came to Market Street in the 1920s, sidewalks were installed to serve pedestrians. In 1927, the chain store S.H. Kress was built at 233 S. Market Street with a signature architectural style. J.C. Penney moved to 139 S. Market Street in 1940.

The late 1960s brought city and county facilities just south of Market Street. During the 1990s, a rehabilitation of Market Street brought street trees and new tenants. Today’s Market Street district has art galleries, bookstores, the Inglewood Senior Center, and the light rail Florence Boulevard station.

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Paulo Murillo is Editor in Chief and Publisher of WEHO TIMES. He brings over 20 years of experience as a columnist, reporter, and photo journalist. Murillo began his professional writing career as the author of “Love Ya, Mean It,” an irreverent and sometimes controversial West Hollywood lifestyle column for FAB! newspaper. His work has appea

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The preceding article was previously published by WeHo Times and is republished with permission.

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Events

Trans Pride LA celebrating 25 Years with series of events

Trans Pride LA celebrates its 25th anniversary this year, making it one of the oldest, dedicated celebrations of Trans Pride in the country

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Trans Pride Los Angeles/WeHo Times

By Mike Pingel | LOS ANGELES – Trans Pride LA celebrates its 25th anniversary this year, making it one of the oldest, dedicated celebrations of Transgender Pride in the country, lifting trans, non-binary, and gender-expansive folks! Spotlighting the Trans*Lounge program as well as other services provided at the Los Angeles LGBT Center, this all-ages, free event expects 1,400+ attendees over two days.

Friday evening, June 14, will kick off with a vibrant TPLA Welcome Mixer, followed by a line dancing lesson by Stud Country instructors Kira and Abigail, and a viewing of the new gallery exhibition “Ides of Gender” by artist Zach Oren.

Saturday, June 15, the Trans Pride Festival will once again take over The Village and McCadden Pl. with interactive workshops, 40+ market vendors and resource partners, six different food vendors, a portrait studio by photographer Devyn Galindo, and a Trans Pride Talent Showcase featuring the Trans Chorus of Los Angeles, Fei Hernandez, Amilia, Bailey Moses, and more.

This event is entirely free on both days, June 14 · 6 pm – June 15 · 6 pm PT. All events will take place at the Center’s Village at Ed Gould Plaza and Anita May Rosenstein Campus in Hollywood. Admission is completely FREE all weekend. To grab your tickets and see the up-to-date schedule, visit: lalgbtcenter.org/tpla202.

Here is the two-day schedule of events:

Friday, June 14th:

6:00 PM – 8:15 PM – TPLA Welcome Mixer Join us in the Village Courtyard at 1125 North McCadden for a welcome cocktail mixer unveiling this year’s Trans Pride exhibit titled “Ides of Gender” by artist Zach Oren. Non-alcoholic beverage options are available.

8:30 PM – 9:30 PM – Queer Country Line Dancing Performance & Lesson by Stud Country instructors Stud Country’s instructors, Kira Kull & Abi Hamilton, will provide a performance that will make you say “yeehaw.” It will be followed by a queer country line dancing lesson open to all.

8:15 PM – 10:00 PM – Cocktail Mixer & Gallery Viewing Continue exploring Trans Pride’s Gallery Exhibit “Ides of Gender,” grab a bite or simply grab a drink while catching up with (new) friends.

Saturday, June 15th:

12:00 PM – 6:00 PM – Trans Pride Festival We are shutting the street down and spreading Trans Joy everywhere! This event includes a Children & Families Activity Area, Live Performances & Entertainment, Educational Workshops, Market Vendors & Resource Fair, Free Food Vendors, and a Trans Pride Talent Showcase! ASL Interpreters will be available throughout the festival stages & workshops.

Trans Pride Los Angeles is hosted by the Trans* Lounge program, the Los Angeles LGBT Center’s groundbreaking education & empowerment program dedicated to serving Los Angeles’ trans and gender expansive community. ASL and bilingual (Spanish/English) interpretation will be available both days.

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Mike Pingel

Mike Pingel has written six books, Channel Surfing: Charlie’s Angels & Angelic Heaven: A Fan’s Guide to Charlie’s Angels, Channel Surfing: Wonder Woman, The Brady Bunch: Super Groovy after all these years; Works of Pingel and most recently, Betty White: Rules the World. Pingel owns and runs CharliesAngels.com website and was Farrah Fawcett personal assistant. He also works as an actor and as a freelance publicist. His official website is www.mikepingel.com

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The preceding article was previously published by WeHo Times and is republished with permission.

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Ricky Martin makes Pride debut at LA Pride in the Park

Martin entertained the crowd with live vocals and hip movements, and he serenaded his hardcore fans with several Spanish songs

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Ricky Martin performs at LA Pride in the Park – Photo by Mike Pingel for WEHO TIMES

By Paulo Murillo | LOS ANGELES – LA Pride kicked off a weekend-long celebration of Pride Month this past Saturday with Ricky Martin shaking his “bom bom” to a sea of fans at Los Angeles State Historic Park.

The event also featured performances by JoJo Siwa, RaiNao, Tokischa, MUNA, and cast members of HBO’s “We’re Here,” including Sasha Velour, Latrice Royale, Jaida Essence Hall, and Priyanka.

The LA Pride in the Park music festival, produced by Christopher Street West (CSW), a 501(c)(3) nonprofit established in 1970, spanned over 20 acres and featured a variety of activities, exhibitor booths, vendors, games, and food and drink options.

Ricky Martin performs at LA Pride in the Park – Photo by Mike Pingel for WEHO TIMES
Ricky Martin performs at LA Pride in the Park – Photo by Mike Pingel for WEHO TIMES
Ricky Martin performs at LA Pride in the Park – Photo by Mike Pingel for WEHO TIMES

Martin entertained the crowd with live vocals and hip movements, and he serenaded his hardcore fans with several Spanish songs, reminding those in attendance that his music career extends beyond “Livin’ La Vida Loca” in the U.S. to other Spanish-speaking countries.

According to reports, this year’s performance marks Martin’s first headlining appearance at any Pride event since he publicly came out as gay via his website in 2010. This year also marks him as the first openly gay Latin artist to perform center stage at LA Pride.

Ricky Martin performs at LA Pride in the Park – Photo by Mike Pingel for WEHO TIMES

Martin had a lot to prove with his LA Pride gig, following in the high-heeled footsteps of LGBTQ+ diva giants Christina Aguilera and Mariah Carey, who graced the LA Pride stage in the past two years.

This year’s theme, “Power in Pride,” celebrates the LGBTQ+ community’s ability to live authentically through strength and resilience.

Ricky Martin performs at LA Pride in the Park – Photo by Paulo Murillo for WEHO TIMES

“His participation in LA Pride in the Park goes beyond mere entertainment. It symbolizes a powerful affirmation of queer Latin identity and a celebration of diversity within the LGBTQ+ community,” said Gerald Garth, president of the Christopher Street West board, in a statement.

@wehotimes @Ricky Martin gave it his all as the headliner of this year’s @LA Pride music festival. Here he gyrates all over the place for Living La Vida Loca. #wehotimes #wehonews #lapride #pride #pridemonth #gaypride #lgbtpride #rickymartin #ricky ♬ original sound – WEHO TIMES

The event also included a “sober space” featuring games and activities, an Erotic City area with displays and appearances catering to the kink community, a sports section, and plenty of giveaways.

The LA Pride celebrations continued on Sunday with the LA Pride Parade through the streets of Hollywood, followed by a daylong street fair.

To learn more about LA Pride, visit: https://lapride.org/

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Paulo Murillo is Editor in Chief and Publisher of WEHO TIMES. He brings over 20 years of experience as a columnist, reporter, and photo journalist. Murillo began his professional writing career as the author of “Love Ya, Mean It,” an irreverent and sometimes controversial West Hollywood lifestyle column for FAB! newspaper. His work has appea

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The preceding article was previously published by WeHo Times and is republished with permission.

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