by Mike Mettler

Even though he spent much of the summer of 2018 on the road touring with Styx, co-founding bassist Chuck Panozzo always finds the time to both honor his roots and support his core activist beliefs whenever he’s back home in the Sunshine State of Florida. To that end, Chuck recently served as the Grand Marshal for the 19th Annual Stonewall Pride Parade & Festival in Wilton Manors, Florida, which was held back on June 16. 

In addition to those hallowed duties, Chuck was also given the Key to the city by long-term Wilton Manors Mayor Gary Resnick, pictured above holding the key itself while standing next to Chuck (in his trademark shades), with other city officials around them. 

“Receiving the Key to my adopted hometown and being selected as Grand Marshal of this parade are such great honors,” Chuck said exclusively to Styxworld. “I’m proud to be who I am every day. I feel that standing up for what we believe in and love is more important than ever.” 

Mayor Resnick echoed Chuck’s sentiments. “It was a great honor and privilege to present a Key to Charles for his activism and selfless support of the city, its residents, and also its many local organizations and charities with great pride,” the Mayor told us, adding, “Charles has shown us all an undying respect for well over 15 years since his moving here. Life’s just better here with Charles calling Wilton Manors, Florida his home.” 

We heartily agree, Mr. Mayor. The tireless work you, the city, and Chuck do for such worthy causes is a Mission we can all get behind, don’t you think?