SHEBOYGAN’S INAUGURAL GAY PRIDE PICNIC at Fountain Park on Saturday, June 22 gave recognition to the city’s LGBT community. Advertised as Sheboygan’s first ever gay pride event, it was hosted and organized by Andrew Kittelson and Noah Bartelt. The event featured two DJs, numerous food trucks and several individuals offering “free mom hugs.” Guest speakers included local United Church of Christ reverend Lex-Cade White and a representative of Courage House Milwaukee, a homeless shelter for displaced LGBT youth. The organization raised over $1,000 in donations from attendees at the pride picnic. — Beacon photo by Luke Ulatowski