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Happy Friday!
Pride Month is in full swing across Palm Beach County, and this weekend offers plenty of opportunities to celebrate, connect, and support our community.
In this edition, you'll find details on The Connie House's third anniversary celebration, our latest community news, upcoming events, and another adoptable cat looking for a forever home.
Whether you're heading out to an event, spending time with friends, or simply catching up on the week's news, thank you for making OutPBC part of your routine.
Have a great weekend.
— Jason Parsley
Publisher, OutSFL
If you enjoy this newsletter, please forward it to a friend, share our stories on social media, and encourage others to subscribe. Make sure to contact us if you wish to advertise your event, or business. Don't forget to follow us on Instagram. Keep this newsletter going, donate here.
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A Night at the Lavender Lounge
This year's Stonewall Ball draws inspiration from LGBTQ history while embracing the spirit of Pride
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Prohibition.
That's the theme of this year's Stonewall Ball, Compass' signature Pride Month fundraiser.
But organizers aren't referring to alcohol.
“This time they're trying to prohibit communities and people from being able to live our lives,” said Michael Riordan, Director of External Affairs for Compass Community Center.
Organizers say the Lavender Lounge theme draws parallels between the Prohibition Era and what many queer people are experiencing today as lawmakers across the country target LGBTQ rights, drag performances, diversity initiatives, and other forms of visibility.
A century ago, politicians wanted to prohibit alcohol. Today, some seem more interested in prohibiting drag shows, library books, and even pronouns.
"We're kind of going through another prohibition era. It's a homage to the speakeasies that were around in the 1920s and 1950s that housed a lot of LGBTQ folks," said Lety Gonzalez, Director of Development of Compass. "So it's kind of like an honor to them as well."
During Prohibition, when alcohol was illegal in the United States, speakeasies were hidden bars where people gathered behind closed doors to drink, socialize, and evade the law. Many became havens for communities pushed to the margins, including LGBTQ people.
The Stonewall Ball, set for June 20 at the Kravis Center in West Palm Beach, will transform the venue into a speakeasy-inspired celebration complete with cocktails, entertainment, dancing, and a few surprises organizers are keeping secret.
Yes, the Stonewall Ball falls on the same day as Stonewall Pride Wilton Manors this year. An unfortunate conflict.
Compass didn't plan it that way. After a successful debut at the Kravis Center last year, organizers were eager to return. The event is traditionally held on the final weekend of June, but that date wasn't available.
“Last year, the Stonewall Ball was really successful,” Riordan said. “People seem to really enjoy doing it at the Kravis Center.”
Still, the two events couldn't be more different. Stonewall Pride is a massive outdoor street festival. Stonewall Ball is an indoor evening of glamour, fundraising, and yes, air conditioning.
“We've actually been encouraging people, if you can't make it to Stonewall Ball, get down to Stonewall Pride,” Riordan said. “Different feels, different events.”
Riordan also gave a special shoutout to the Palm Beach County Human Rights Council for supporting this year's event.
“Compass has long been the heart of Palm Beach County's queer community,” said Rand Hoch, founder and president of PBCHRC. “The PBCHRC Charitable Foundation is honored to help Compass continue these essential services.”
Compass will also honor two community leaders: State Rep. Rob Long, who represents District 90, and Ramsay MacLeod, a longtime volunteer known for quietly stepping up whenever help is needed.
Tickets are available through June 17. The Stonewall Ball takes place Saturday, June 20, at the Kravis Center in West Palm Beach. The evening begins with a VIP reception from 7 to 9 p.m., followed by a dance party that runs until midnight. Guests can enjoy a live singer, music by DJ Lagato, a silent auction, and plenty of opportunities to mingle. VIP tickets are $300, while dance-party-only admission is $50. The event is open to guests 21 and older. Buy here. 📝 story by Jason Parsley 📸 photo via Compass
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New Culture Column
OutPBC debuts The Green Carnation Society, a new column exploring LGBTQ culture, food, community, and local life. Read the first edition HERE and follow the column on Instagram HERE.
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Connie House Anniversary The Connie House will celebrate its third anniversary June 13, marking three years of providing affirming assisted living for LGBTQ+ seniors in Boynton Beach. The pioneering facility has earned national recognition for inclusive eldercare while offering residents a safe, welcoming place to age with dignity and authenticity. 716 Northwest 1st Avenue
Boynton Beach. 4-7 p.m.
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Pride on the Block Celebrates Successful Event
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"With so much uncertainty facing the LGBTQ+ community right now Pride On The Block reminded us how important it is to come together. People showed up early stayed throughout the day and embraced the opportunity to connect, celebrate and support one another. Seeing new artists and performers take the stage alongside longtime pillars of our community was especially meaningful the day. It was a reflection of what makes South Florida‘s LGBTQ plus community so special: people showing up for one another and creating spaces where everyone feels welcome." – Donna Weinberger |
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FRIDAY
Lambda North (AA)
Lambda North hosts its weekly AA meeting, offering fellowship, support, and recovery in an LGBTQ-inclusive space. @ Crossroads Club in Delray Beach. 7-8 p.m. SATURDAY Dyke Takeover @ Respectables
Dyke Takeover brings DJs, pole dancers, vendors, and live performances together for a high-energy night celebrating queer creativity, music, and community. @ Respectable Street in West Palm Beach. Admission $10. 9 p.m.
Bingo @ Church of the Savior
Enjoy an afternoon bingo, themed door prizes, a 50/50 raffle, refreshments, and community fellowship. Admission is $15 for eight games. @ Church of Our Savior MCC in Boynton Beach. Doors open at 2 p.m.; play begins at 3 p.m.
SUNDAY Annual Pride Ride Glow Ride Celebrate Pride Month with a high-energy spin class featuring music, community, and plenty of rainbow spirit. @ CycleBar, Palm Beach Gardens | 12 p.m. (noon)MONDAY Night Runners Run/Walk
Join the Night Runners for their twice weekly run/walk. Mondays & Thursdays @ Howard Park in West Palm Beach. 8 p.m. TUESDAY Tito’s and Tacos @ Rooster's
$6 Tito’s. $3 Tacos till supplies last. 7 p.m.
WEDNESDAY Pride Business Alliance Social
Join Compass’ Pride Business Alliance for an evening of networking, conversation, and community with LGBTQ professionals, allies, and local business leaders. @ H.G. Rooster's in West Palm Beach. FREE. 6 p.m. to 8 p.m.
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Night Runners Pride 5K
Night Runners' 6th Annual Pride 5K Walk/Run in Downtown West Palm Beach.
The evening event will feature runners, walkers, vendors, food, and community celebration, all centered around the club’s mission of promoting health, diversity, and camaraderie through movement and friendship.
Sign up HERE. |
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Room for Rent — Boynton Beach
Private bedroom in a luxury apartment with resort-style amenities. Utilities included.
$1,300/month • Immediate move-in • Professional male preferred
Contact | Ian 631-682-4108
Room for rent – Lake Worth Beach
Private downstairs room in a three-story townhouse with en suite bathroom, pool access, giant kitchen, and a location just steps from downtown, the intracoastal, and the beach.
$1,350/month ($2,100 deposit • June 11 move-in • month-to-month or 12-month lease) Contact | Christopher 239-745-5494
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Some cats need a little extra time to show you who they really are.
Tess, a stunning 3-year-old long-haired gray beauty, came to Adopt A Cat Foundation after surviving life outdoors in an unsafe area of Miami. When she first arrived, she was frightened and spent most of her time hidden beneath a towel. But with patience, kindness, and plenty of love from volunteers, Tess has begun to blossom.
Today, her gentle personality shines through. Once she feels safe, Tess is affectionate, quiet, and loving — the kind of companion who forms deep bonds with the people she trusts.
Tess is looking for a calm home willing to let her settle in at her own pace. Give her the time she needs, and you'll discover a sweet cat who has so much love to give.
Tess at a Glance:
Age: 3 years Breed: Domestic Long Hair Sex: Female Color: Gray / Silver Spayed: Yes
Vaccinated: Yes Adoption Fee: $100 Theo's Love Language: Quiet companionship
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