We are experiencing a surge this season in the Pines and the Grove with a list chock full of shows, fundraisers, parties, concerts, and other festivities. I don’t remember a month of June ever having so many events. Both communities, simultaneously celebrated the second year of Juneteenth weekend on June 17-19, hosted by the Black and Brown Equity Coalition of Fire Island and the Committee on Black Equality featuring a schedule with tea dances, a solidarity walk along the beach, as well as parade with a flag raising ceremony in the Grove.
The one and only Gina Yashere!
Shows in the Grove featured Peppermint, Shaquita, The Dragon Sisters and comedienne Gina Yashere, star of TV’s “Bob Abishola.”
In the Pines at Whyte Hall a talk was held with composer Joriah Kwamé and director Kimille Howard of “How to You: A Musical Guide to Black Boyhood.” Performer: Legacy featured music by GARE at The Carrington House. Denizen donated outfits for The Market Faire featuring Black queer designers with a fashion show at reflections. Diversity Equity Inclusion (DEI), a committee formed by APCG, is responsible for the Grove line-up of events.
Friday evening at the Community House Kay Davis introduced famed photographer and gay activist Lola Flash who showed many of her important works, some of which are presently at MOMA. A film was also screened by Keioui Keijaun Thomas.
On Saturday, a backyard barbecue luncheon was catered by Backyard Barbeque Caterers. Julian Dorcelian and Kay Davis donated the yellow T shirts. Later that night the Miss Juneteenth pageant was held. Jasmin Van Well stepped down and transferred her crown to Paris L’Hommie,
Saturday, June 25, join the celebration of the Gay Pride Parade in Cherry Grove, filled with costumes, floats, and lots of people and great fun. Dan Tagala, a correspondent for ABS and CBN Philippine Broadcast Network, will be attending the parade and guesting with Medel and Brian, new homeowners in the Grove.
Joe Barros, artistic director of New York Theatre Barn and Fire Island Pines Arts Project, has created a summer residency program for three musical writing teams. Tony Award Winner Jerry Mitchell mentors this program. On Saturday, June 25, at Whyte Hall, New York Theatre Barn and FIPAP will present “Barn On Fire,” featuring scenes, music and skits from their new shows with both new and familiar faces among the Pines performers. Cocktails will be at 5 p.m., followed by a 6 p.m. show.
Congratulations to Linda Gottlieb for her successful 11 years of Women’s Pride In The Pines, fundraising money for several gay organizations.
FIPPOA is seeking candidates for its Board of Directors. Contact FIPPOA by July 8.
The House Blessing in the Grove has been rescheduled to June 26.
On July 2, Cherry Grove Garden Tour will be from 11a.m. to 1 p.m. on the Grove’s west side; from 1-3 p.m. on the east side. Later that evening Rose Levine will appear in “Broadway Hit Parade” at the Community House. Special guests will include Luis Villabon, Tim Burke and Skie Ocasio. Curtain time is 8:30 p.m.
On July 9, the one and only Seth Sykes will appear at the Community House.
