OutClique Magazine August 2022

Volume 6, Issue 9 August 2022

Claudia Castillo ART Studio Martha Wash Nashville LGBTQ+ War on the Catwalk

One in Two Drawn to Life Lips Drag Brunch

THE VISION IS NOW TO CREATE A NEWLY DEFINED GALLERIA FORT LAUDERDALE EXPERIENCE A major transformation is being planned for Galleria Fort Lauderdale to convert the 42-acre site into a dynamic mixed-use indoor/outdoor destination with new retail and dining options and upscale residential offerings. As part of this impressive renewal plan, a portion of the current enclosed mall structure will be redefined to create a coveted village-inspired environment with tailored streetscapes, green spaces and a pedestrian loop.

The future vision of Galleria, which is aligned with other projects in Fort Lauderdale, is being led by a prominent team including Stephanie Toothaker, chairwoman and chief strategist of Toothaker.org, with collaborative partners Acre Realty, Adache Group Architects, DC Engineers, Inc., Dwell Studios, EDSA and Flynn Engineering.

The exciting project is being developed, leased and managed by JLL.

Evolving to Meet Changing Consumer Preferences The proposed plan follows the trend of other retail destinations that have evolved to meet changing consumer preferences. It will maximize land use by harmoniously merging retail offerings, restaurants and residential units into one architecturally distinctive and cohesive environment.

Ultimately, it will evoke a more welcoming and community-friendly vibe, increase property values, improve the quality of life for neighbors, revitalize the prime area and generate significant additional tax revenue.

Historically, Galleria has stood as a landmark and desirable place to shop, dine or meet friends and family. From its inception in 1954 as the Sunrise Shopping Center, a suburban-style box development, it morphed into an enclosed mall in the 1980s. In 2004, a major addition heightened the status of the property with an impressive restaurant collection and a prominent entrance on the north end of the center.

For more information about this proposed plan, visit GalleriaMall-FL.com.

Galleria Fort Lauderdale is ready for a transformation.

We’re making a significant investment to create a dynamic mixed-use indoor/outdoor destination. Learn more about our exciting vision and the many benefits it will offer: • Attract new retail and dining opportunities • Create a village-inspired environment that will complement the surrounding neighborhoods • Improve the quality of life with more walkable paths, greens spaces and new experiences • Increase property values by enhancing the area with modern architecture and new residential offerings • Generate more tax revenue and employment opportunities for a stronger community

Learn more about this proposed plan >>

GalleriaMall-FL.com

Time for Yourself in a Busy World

By Steven O. Evans, PhD Dear Readers, In busy worlds, we often forget to take time for ourselves.

It’s easy to get caught up in the busyness of life. But, I often say being too busy to remember the important things is often the adult version of, “The dog ate my homework.”

Take time this month to worship, meditate, relax, get a massage, take a walk on our beautiful beaches, or whatever form of relaxation fits for you.

Focus on shutting everything and everyone out. Try to calm your mind from all the things you have to do. It’s ok to have this time to just be yourself. Breathe. Enjoy the quiet moments. Center on the positive energy in your life.

Then take time to be thankful for what you have in life, regardless of what might be missing. I promise, there are people that love and care about you.

This fall we, at OutClique magazine, are super excited about what is to come. Join us in this journey.

Wishing you the best of the best. May happiness be abounding1.

Steven O. Evans, PhD2 Editor in Chief 1Dr. Angela Easterday-Holder, former Chair and Professor of Music at Carson-Newman University.

2Dr. Jane McEldowney Jensen, doctoral supervisor. Director of Graduate Studies, Educational Policy Studies & Education. University of Kentucky, College of Education. Dissertation title: Pediatrics education in an AHEC setting: Preparing students to provide patient centered medicine.

A research study of ways that medical students learn patient centered medicine through their rotations in AHEC clinical settings.

Our team cares for you

with all our hearts.

The Jackson Heart Institute features a tight-knit team of cardiac specialists. Our cardiac surgery team is led by Romualdo Segurola, MD, FACS—a renowned, triple board-certified surgeon. The team collaborates on every case to assure the best-possible outcome. Working together, they are able to perform cardiac surgeries from minimally invasive surgery to highly specialized procedures.

And that makes the Jackson Heart Institute the most-comprehensive heart program in Miami.

Call 305-742-0055 for an appointment with one of our specialists or visit MiamiHeartLeader.org.

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Jackson Health System is proud to be recognized as an “LGBTQ Healthcare Equality Top Performer” by the Human Rights Campaign (HRC) Foundation. Learn more at LGBTQHealthLeader.org.

AHF Makes Multi-Million Dollar Commitment for Affordable Housing

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s residents throughout Miami-Dade struggle to find affordable housing in the metro area and MiamiDade County ramps up investments in new housing, the Healthy Housing Foundation (HHF), a subsidiary of the global, nonprofit, AIDS Healthcare Foundation (AHF), is committing to invest millions of dollars toward the development of affordable housing units throughout Miami-Dade. An initial $5 million will be dedicated to Mayor Daniella Levine Cava’s new Building Blocks Fund – an impact pool that will deploy capital to build and preserve much-needed housing by 2025, as the Mayor works to convene funding partners and bring significant new investment to build affordable housing.

will work closely together to deploy innovative methods of developing truly affordable housing options.

As part of the organization’s interest in being a strategic thought partner with Miami-Dade County leadership and identifying and participating in viable affordable housing projects in Miami-Dade, the organization is supporting the county’s “New Building Block Fund for Preservation and Development of Affordable and Workforce Housing” and will join the county’s NBBF Governing Council and provide recommendations to the County on how resources should be deployed. County officials and HHF representatives

“We are extremely grateful to work with partners like AIDS Healthcare Foundation and their Healthy Housing Foundation that are committed to finding real solutions to our affordability crisis and meeting our residents’ needs,” said Miami-Dade Mayor Daniella Levine Cava. “We proudly launched the Building Blocks Fund impact pool earlier this year to expand investment and accelerate development of new affordable housing, and this commitment is the perfect example of what we can accomplish when all

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AHF and Healthy Housing Foundation Founder and CEO, Michael Weinstein joined Mayor Daniella Levine Cava and other county officials to announce the Healthy Housing Foundations market commitment and Building Blocks Fund agreement on Thursday, June 30, 2022, during the Mayor’s Building Blocks Summit focused on addressing housing affordability throughout the county. Leaders from Fannie Mae and the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) will also be on-site as a part of the summit.

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sectors come together to reimagine a housing market that works for all our residents.”

The local HHF team has been working with Mayor Daniella Levine Cava and the Miami-Dade County Department of Public Housing and Community Development to identify opportunities for collaboration to support the goal of creating more truly affordable housing options.

The HHF funding continues the organizational commitment to provide truly affordable housing units in Miami-Dade and throughout South Florida. Earlier this year, the organization broke ground for the Biscayne House, a 12-story high-rise in Miami’s Edgewater neighborhood, due to open in 2024, that will house 75 units of affordable housing. The property will be the first affordable housing site that the Healthy Housing Foundation has developed in South Florida, and its fourteenth property for extremelylow and low-income housing since being launched in 2017. HHF also has plans to build other affordable housing units in the Ft. Lauderdale area, near its AHF Southern Bureau Headquarters. In addition, many AHF affiliate organizations across the U.S. are also involved in providing affordable housing.

AHF launched the Healthy Housing Foundation in 2017 to address the rampant affordable housing crisis sweeping the nation by providing fast, easy, and compassionate access to affordable housing with a focus on addressing the needs of low-income individuals, struggling families and youth.

“Housing is a fundamental human right that should be available to all no matter their race, gender or socioeconomic status. The Healthy Housing Foundation is committed to alleviating the barriers that prevent every human being from having access to an affordable and dignified place to call home. We are pleased to join with Mayor Daniella Levine Cava and continue our work together to create affordable housing units throughout Miami-Dade,” stated Michael Weinstein, Founder and CEO, The Healthy Housing Foundation According to recent statistics from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), 54% of renters in Miami-Dade County are cost burdened, more than the national average.

For more information on AIDS Healthcare Foundation, visit AIDSHealth.org.

Content and Photos Courtesy of AHF

O UTC LIQUE Steven O. Evans, PhD

Publisher and Editor in Chief Steven@OutClique.com

Connie Evans

Chief Copy Editor Mother of the Publisher

Sach AD Group

Director of Graphic Design

Chandler Scott

Director of Social Media Assistant to the Publisher

Will White

Director of Special Projects

Jason Eakin

Director of Distribution

David DeBlase Distribution

Mike Ritzi

Sales Manager

Rivendell Media

National Advertising

Denny Patterson

Senior Lifestyle Writer & Assistant Editor

John M. Hayden Writer

Stephen Lang

Director of Photography A publication of OutClique, LLC (954) 294-8560 www.OutClique.com www.Facebook.com/OutClique Info@OutClique.com OutClique, LLC is not responsible for statements or opinions expressed in advertisements or articles.

Car Care Tips from Lexus D

uring their development phase, Lexus vehicle designs are extensively tested in extreme environmental conditions, which include lengthy performance evaluations in desert environments (prototypes have been known to visit Death Valley). But even Lexus vehicles can use a little TLC during long stretches of hot, sunny weather, so we’re providing some expert tips: 1. Avoid cleaning vehicle surfaces in direct sunlight: This is the number one warm weather tip from Lexus detailer Paul Anguiano, and by “surfaces” he means exterior paint, bumpers, and mirrors, as well as all interior materials such as trim, upholstery, and plastic components.

“When temperatures rise, cleaning chemicals and soaps can fade these surfaces, and direct sunlight, especially

10 | OutClique.com

on hot days, can add to these surfaces’ temperatures,” Anguiano explains. “Lexus detailers recommend that you always let the exterior and interior cool down in a garage or carport before doing any cleaning, and then feel the surfaces with your hand to see if they’re still warm. If so, wait another few minutes before applying the cleaner.”

2. Turn off your rain-sensing windshield wipers: “It sounds counterintuitive to be thinking about windshield wipers during dry periods, but I advise guests to turn off their rain-sensing feature in the summer,” says Lexus Certified Master Technician John Dascher. “Summertime is insect time and bugs can activate the sensor, causing wipers to turn on and smear insects and road dust over the dry windshield.”

Dascher also recommends summer as a time to replace

Photo Courtesy of Lexus

your wipers. Why? Chances are they’ve just finished months of heavy lifting in wetter fall-to-spring conditions.

to a leather surface if the vehicle interior heats up significantly.

After weeks of dry, dust-accumulating weather, a sudden summer downpour requires the wipers to suddenly work like an Olympic sprinter to keep visibility high, and new wipers can handle better than those you’ve been working hard during the snowy and rainy seasons.

4. Consider additional exterior protection: If it’s available for your Lexus model as an exterior accessory, Lexus Paint Protection Film by 3M™* is especially useful for summer road trips. It helps protect specific vehicle areas against light road debris, such as small rocks, plus its transparent layers are designed to help protect against the gradual exterior-aging effects of UV radiation.

3. Protect your leather: If you drive a Lexus vehicle with leather trim or leather seat surfaces, avoid exposing the vehicle to direct sunlight for extended periods. Simply make a point to park the vehicle in the shade or a garage whenever you can, since over time UV light can lighten leather surfaces and reduce their inherent moisture levels, both of which reduce the like-new feel.

Another recommendation: during warm, sunny periods, never place items made of vinyl or plastic, or containing wax, on leather surfaces, as these materials can stick

5. Check your fluids between recommended maintenance visits: “This is more of a basic precaution, but it’s prudent during the hottest months to frequently check that your coolant and washer fluid reservoirs are full,” says Dascher. “This is because your vehicle can use these fluids more quickly in hot conditions. If you’re not comfortable doing this yourself, just drop by your Lexus dealership for a check between recommended maintenance intervals.”

Content Courtesy of Brian Gill and Lexus

OutClique.com | 11

Photo provided by The Big Drag Bus - Nashville 2021

LGBTQ+ Nashville

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usic City has long been a destination known for an opportunity, immense creativity, and inclusivity without limits. Like a range of notes coming together to create a melody, the unique individuality of Nashville’s visitors and residents alike helps make the city a more vibrant and inviting place.

Nashville is a proud home to an active LGBT Chamber of Commerce, a music-filled annual Pride festival, and a wide range of LGBTQ-owned businesses, from bakeries to hotels and everything in between.

Upcoming Special Events: • Diskin Divas Drag Brunch - Diskin Cider • Drag’n Brunch - Suzy Wongs • U be U - Play Dance Bar • Rupaul’s Drag Race - Ryman Auditorium • Bob the Drag Queen & Money x Change Marathon Music Works • Nashville Cultural Festival - Centennial Park For more information, please visit www.visitmusiccity.com/welcome/lgbtq

Content Courtesy of Nashville Convention & Visitors Corporation

Photo Courtesy of Sam Parker from Nashville Pride

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Local Officials, Business Owners, and other Stakeholders Applaud the Completion of the Downtown Fort Lauderdale Mobility Hub

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“This is another milestone that the Broward MPO is proud to have completed as part of our partnership with the City of Fort Lauderdale and our mission to improve connectivity and mobility options,” said Greg Stuart, executive director of the Broward MPO. “We take considerable pride in developing projects like this that impact the quality of life for area residents, workers and tourists plus help local businesses thrive and boost our economy.”

Spanning over four blocks (north of Broward Boulevard and south of NW 4th Street and east of the FEC rail tracks and west of NW 1st Avenue), the Mobility Hub offers new infrastructure such as wider sidewalks, ADA-compliant crosswalks, lush landscaping, pedestrian lighting, dedicated bike facilities, seating, and wayfinding. These amenities have been added to the area, increasing the safety and comfort of pedestrians during their commute.

“We are committed to making Fort Lauderdale the best it can be to live, work and play,” said Fort Lauderdale Mayor Dean Trantalis. “This collaborative effort with the MPO and others is part of a strategic plan to create a more vibrant downtown that attracts businesses and individuals who want to immerse in a more walk-friendly environment.”

Broward County’s population continues to increase which requires smart planning. Mobility Hubs aid as a solution to ease traffic congestion by granting access to various mass transit options and increasing ridership, which will decrease the heavy reliance on an individual vehicle.

Photo Courtesy of Broward MPO

he highly anticipated Downtown Fort Lauderdale Mobility Hub, which is planned, funded and constructed by the Broward Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO) in partnership with the City of Fort Lauderdale, is now accessible to downtown commuters, residents and visitors. This transformational project provides greater access to the Broward County Transit (BCT) downtown terminal, Brightline, Tri-Rail shuttles, ride-share services, and other micro-mobility options.

The Broward MPO’s Mobility Hub initiative continues to develop with original inspiration from the San Diego Association of Government (SANDAG) and the Shared Use Mobility Center in Chicago. The MPO has expanded the concept of the Mobility Hub by tailoring future projects that fit the community’s unique needs.

Local municipalities can apply to the MPO for assistance with the planning, design, and construction of future Mobility Hubs. The application allows the MPO to evaluate land use and equity, transit readiness, and sponsor interest plus coordinate with local transit providers such as BCT and South Florida Regional Transportation Authority (SFRTA) to improve services that will make connections easier.

To learn more about the Broward MPO’s current Mobility Hubs, visit https://browardmpo.org/mobility-program About The Broward Metropolitan Planning Organization

The Broward Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO) is a transportation policy-making board responsible for transportation planning and funding allocations. The Organization works with the public, planning organizations, government agencies, elected officials, and community groups to develop transportation plans in Broward.

Content Courtesy of Goodman PR

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Lips

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Spend Your Sunday Brunch at Lips

By Denny Patterson

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or the past 25 years, Lips has been serving dinner, drinks, and fabulous drag shows across the country.

Founded by Miss Yvonne Lame’ in New York’s Greenwich Village, Lips has grown into a drag empire with establishments in New York City, Chicago, Atlanta, San Diego, and right here in Fort Lauderdale. It is a true and complete LaCage experience with over the top show palaces, tasty cuisine, and incredible performances.

venues is that guests receive more of an experience because the waitresses are also the drag queens,” Lame’ says. “At other venues, you’re not really getting that one-on-one interaction. So, I think that’s where we stand out, and this happens at all our locations. The waiters and waitresses are drag queens. From the minute you walk in, you’re experiencing drag. It’s like they’re bringing the show to the table.”

“It’s sort of like a Disneyland of drag for adults,” Lame’ jokes.

Fort Lauderdale drag sensation Nicolette serves as the show’s host. According to Lame’, she was hired from the very beginning.

On Sundays, patrons are invited to an outrageously fun afternoon while the ladies of Lips put on the ultimate drag brunch. Starting in 2007 as a gospel drag brunch, it has switched to a more traditional format and is now one of the venue’s most popular productions.

“I remember seeing her emcee, and at first, she was like, ‘I don’t know if I can do this,’” she recalls. “Nicolette took the reins and is an excellent host. She’s a natural comedian. Not everyone has comedic skills, but she gets to the core. The host is one of the key elements to

“The biggest difference between us and most other

the show’s success, and Nicolette brings a lot of great energy and fun.”

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A sassy southern gal who loves to have fun, make jokes, and make people laugh, Nicolette is a 26-year drag veteran. She says she loves hosting the drag brunch and interacting with the audience.

“I just hope they have a good time,” she says. “When we started out with the gospel brunch, my goal was to make people leave feeling just a little bit better than when they arrived. I kept it more subject appropriate then, but now I can be a little bit more adult while on the microphone. I just hope people laugh and have a good time while they’re there. We have some high level talent, and I think it’s an overall good deal. What’s better than having a meal and unlimited mimosas and

bloody marys while enjoying a spectacular show?”

“Not only is this a good show, but we have good food,” Lame’ adds. “I’m sure there’s a certain amount of people who are like, it’s a drag show, so the food can’t be that good. No, we have some delicious brunch entrees and drinks. Also, from the minute you walk in, you’re sort of in this drag queen palace. I think that’s another way we stand out from other places. It’s over the top decor and a lot of visuals. It’s a total experience.”

Seating times at 11:30AM and 2PM, and reservations are required since almost every drag brunch sells out quickly.

For more information, visit fladragshow.com, or follow Lips on Facebook @LipsFTL or Instagram @lipsfla.

Photos Courtesy of Lips Fort Lauderdale

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The Entertaining and Uplifting Shasta McNastie

By John Hayden Photos Courtesy of Corey Moore

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he’s fierce, she’s funny, and everyone knows when she’s in the room. She’s an entertainment staple on Wilton Drive as well as an example of love everywhere she goes. We’re talking, of course, about Shasta McNastie.

From Pub On the Drive to Hunters and more, her shows draw in long time fans and newbies every week.

Her journey to this point has been long and winding, sometimes painful and complicated, but McNastie (aka William Hansen) is grateful for every moment.

She talked with OutClique about her history, her act, and future.

such beautiful people that run the systems, as well as participants. It truly takes a village.

JH: South Florida’s pageant calendar is always packed.

Which ones are you most excited about?

SMcN: The pageant that I am most excited about is the

Mr., Miss & Miss Pub at Large, which is coming up August 25, 2022, at 7PM. I am excited to run and hopefully take home the crown. After that, there’s the Miss Florida FI Pageant in October.

Preparation for pageants can be months long. Everything has to be on point, clean, and flawless. Here in South Florida, especially these girls, they do not come to play.

It is a serious competition on the stage, but the best parts about the pageants are the bonds and friendships and the kiki backstage. You can learn a lot if you can listen, take constructive criticism, and make it work for yourself.

Organization is key, at least that’s what I have been told!

John Hayden: I can’t walk down The Drive without either hearing your show or seeing a sign promoting a Shasta show. Where are you and when?

Shasta McNastie: I have three ‘home bars’ that I perform and host shows at. One Sunday a month, I host my Draggin’ It To Brunch show at Pub On the Drive from 2PM-4PM, as well as a Saturday show normally at 8PM called Shasta’s Shakedown. I love Pub On the Drive because they have truly given me a chance to showcase my talents as a host and performer. The staff there is not just staff, they are my family. They support myself and other talented entertainers in our community.

JH: Tell me about Shasta.

SMcN: She is made of a little sugar, spice, class, and

Hunters Nightclub has also been very supportive to my drag career. I started working at Hunters as a bar back and security, when I decided to do a little more drag.

In the last few months, I have become a permanent rotating cast member at Spencer’s Corner Bar on Wednesday nights with Dee Dee Van Carter on her variety shows.

JH: When someone sees you perform, they go on a

JH: Pride Month ends and before you can catch your

breath, you’re in the middle of pageant season. You were also Miss Stonewall, which combines the craziness of both. How do you hold it all together?

SMcN: Celsius and sugar free red bull, super glue, duct tape! Pride Month is such an amazing month. Not just because that’s when my birthday is, but we get to celebrate our own true selves. I love Pride! It was always a dream of mine to be a Miss Gay Pride, and last year I was by being crowned Miss Stonewall 2021 by this amazing community. And yes, pageant season is upon us! I am somewhat new to the pageantry systems here in Florida, but I am growing, learning, and meeting

trash all mixed in a big beautiful shell of a queen. I am a country comedy queen at heart but can do anything I put my mind or wig to. I am a huge advocate for our sober LGBTQ community, our LGBTQ youth, and HIV awareness, plus many other things. Shasta was born in Topeka, Kansas, a little over 17 years ago. My dearly departed husband named her. I love hosting shows, as well as performing.

journey. Tell me about the Shasta McNastie experience.

SMcN: Ooooh, lord! Buckle up and keep your hands and feet inside the car at all times. I never really know what’s going to come out of my mouth. The filter is sometimes broken, and when that happens, just sit back and enjoy.

I like to make people laugh with my funny songs, make people feel like dancing with my dance songs, and love when they get in there. I am still human underneath these nine layers of stockings and waist trainers. I love to have a good time.

JH: As William, you came to South Florida for very serious reasons?

SMcN: As William, I came to South Florida to start my sobriety journey. Really, so did Shasta. I had stopped entertaining because of my drinking and drug use. I guess I didn’t do my research well because I came here

OutClique.com | 39

to find a rehab and a new start. Unless you have pockets of money, insurance, or find a good peer specialist or program that can guide you through the steps, it’s almost impossible.

After an interesting journey to start down here, including homlessness and relapse, I have now been sober five years and seven months and will celebrate my sixth year, God willing, on December 31, 2022.

JH: You told me you do this for the love. What do you

love about entertaining?

SMcN: Love is what keeps us together as a community.

The reason that I love to entertain is because you never know what someone is going through in their life at that exact moment or the days they just had. If I can help somebody get out of their head and laugh, have a great time and forget about what’s going on, or help them through what’s going on by my performance or something I said on the mic, then I know I am doing what I am supposed to do and what I believe in. I have had people come up to me and express that if it was not for the drag world, they don’t know if they would have ever had the strength to be their true authentic self. That right there is one of the most amazing feelings you will ever experience.

JH: Your day job is also helping others. How does that

fulfill you?

SMcN: I love helping others. I am a pleaser. I am a peer specialist and I work for a nonprofit called South Florida Wellness Network, where I get to help fellow peers that are struggling with mental health or substance abuse recovery. I am one of many that get to help people start their journey by giving linkage to the community, as well as being an emotional support for them as they start and go through their journey of recovery and achieving a better quality of life for themselves.

JH: Anything I haven’t mentioned?

SMcN: None of what I have done could have been

possible without the love and support of my family, blood and choosen, and my friends. Remember to not only support your local entertainers, but be kind and respectful. We are still humans under the makeup and we are still going to make mistakes and have hard days.

Love one another and just be nice.

Stay up-to-date and connect with McNastie by following her on Instagram @shastamcnastie.

40 | OutClique.com

Georgie’s Alibi Monkey Bar

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Pub on the Drive

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Matty’s

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Always look for the BBB Seal, and find a Better Business anytime at

BBB.org

What’s On Your Mind?

By Rod Davis, CEO BBB serving Southeast Florida and the Caribbean

E

very day consumers contact BBB to gain information to make informed decisions. The business profiles on BBB.org about businesses include: the name of the business, address, phone number, website, business principles, how long a business has been in operation, licensure information, the number of complaints received in the past 36 months, a description of the complaints and responses from the business and reviews submitted by customers. Every day almost 19,000 business reports are consulted by consumers.

Your local BBB also receives over 150,000 calls each year, emails and questions posted on various websites (e.g., Google). The real life questions from your neighbors may also help you make an informed decision.

Q. Does anyone have any reviews on Dr. Purita from

the Institute of Regenerative Stem Cell treatment in Boca Raton Fl. Does it work or not?

A. Hello Felicia, it is important to always validate any advertising claim, but when it comes to health care issues, it is even more important. You may want to consult with your physician to obtain his or her guidance about any proposed treatment. Ideally, any business making claims should have competent and reliable scientific evidence to support claims. The data should be conducted by recognized professionals and directly applicable to the specific product or formula referenced in the advertising.

You should always ask for such studies from any provider.

If they do provide studies, ask your medical provider to review them and provide their expertise in evaluating the claims and their relevance to your situation. Specific to Stem Cell Treatments, the FTC recently took action against a California based company and you may want to review that action and the guidance provided by the FTC as part of your due diligence. www.ftc.gov/news-events/ press-releases/2018/10/ftc-stops-deceptive-healthclaims-stem-cell-therapy-clinic.

Q. A neighbor just had Guardian Hurricane install shutters for her windows. She is pleased with the work, but does BBB have any information about this business?

A. Hello Miriam, BBB has a profile on Guardian Hurricane.

Our website makes it easy to find a business and review the business profile. Just go to BBB.org and use the

search tool to find the business. Enter the name of the business and the city and state where that business is located. Next, click on the name of the business in the search results and the BBB Business Profile for Guardian Hurricane shows: • The business has been operating since 2006 • The business is BBB Accredited which means they meet BBB standards and agree to work with BBB on any customer issues • The business has not had any complaints in the 3-year reporting period • The website and phone number for the business are included in the report and you may also request a quote directly from the business profile The full report is at: www.bbb.org/us/fl/miami-lakes/ profile/hurricane-shutters/guardian-hurricane-protectionproducts-inc-0633-7003582. If you do hire the business we encourage you to post a review. If the business does a great job, they deserve the recognition and you will help other consumers find a good business. If the work did not meet your standards, be constructive about how the business can improve and BBB will use that information to work with the business to do better with future customers.

Q. What is the difference between BBB Ratings and BBB Customer Reviews?

A. BBB Ratings and BBB Customer reviews provide two different ways to evaluate a business. BBB Ratings take into account a large number of factors: complaint history of the business, the type of business, time in business, whether essential information about the business is transparent, whether the business honors commitments to BBB, licensing and government actions and advertising issues. The full description for ratings is at: www.bbb.org/ overview-of-bbb-ratings.

Customer reviews are stand alone and reflect solely the assessment of individual consumers. BBB uses a validation process to help ensure that only valid reviews are posted on BBB as a tool for potential customers.

According to Brightlocal’s 2022 local consumer review survey, “BBB, is by far, the most trusted review site.” The full survey results are at: https://www.brightlocal.com/ research/local-consumer-review-survey/

You may want to check out our BBB Consumer Resource Center at: www.bbb.org/all/consumer-resources.

IMPORTANT FACTS FOR BIKTARVY®

This is only a brief summary of important information about BIKTARVY and does not replace talking to your healthcare provider about your condition and your treatment.

(bik-TAR-vee)

MOST IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT BIKTARVY

POSSIBLE SIDE EFFECTS OF BIKTARVY

BIKTARVY may cause serious side effects, including:

BIKTARVY may cause serious side effects, including: � Those in the “Most Important Information About BIKTARVY” section. � Changes in your immune system. Your immune system may get stronger and begin to fight infections that may have been hidden in your body. Tell your healthcare provider if you have any new symptoms after you start taking BIKTARVY. � Kidney problems, including kidney failure. Your healthcare provider should do blood and urine tests to check your kidneys. If you develop new or worse kidney problems, they may tell you to stop taking BIKTARVY. � Too much lactic acid in your blood (lactic acidosis), which is a serious but rare medical emergency that can lead to death. Tell your healthcare provider right away if you get these symptoms: weakness or being more tired than usual, unusual muscle pain, being short of breath or fast breathing, stomach pain with nausea and vomiting, cold or blue hands and feet, feel dizzy or lightheaded, or a fast or abnormal heartbeat. � Severe liver problems, which in rare cases can lead to death. Tell your healthcare provider right away if you get these symptoms: skin or the white part of your eyes turns yellow, dark “tea-colored” urine, light-colored stools, loss of appetite for several days or longer, nausea, or stomach-area pain. � The most common side effects of BIKTARVY in clinical studies were diarrhea (6%), nausea (6%), and headache (5%).

� Worsening of hepatitis B (HBV) infection. Your

healthcare provider will test you for HBV. If you have both HIV-1 and HBV, your HBV may suddenly get worse if you stop taking BIKTARVY. Do not stop taking BIKTARVY without first talking to your healthcare provider, as they will need to check your health regularly for several months, and may give you HBV medicine.

ABOUT BIKTARVY BIKTARVY is a complete, 1-pill, once-a-day prescription medicine used to treat HIV-1 in adults and children who weigh at least 55 pounds. It can either be used in people who have never taken HIV-1 medicines before, or people who are replacing their current HIV-1 medicines and whose healthcare provider determines they meet certain requirements.

BIKTARVY does not cure HIV-1 or AIDS. HIV-1 is the virus that causes AIDS. Do NOT take BIKTARVY if you also take a medicine that contains: � dofetilide � rifampin � any other medicines to treat HIV-1

BEFORE TAKING BIKTARVY Tell your healthcare provider if you: � Have or have had any kidney or liver problems,

including hepatitis infection. � Have any other health problems. � Are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. It is not known if BIKTARVY can harm your unborn baby.

Tell your healthcare provider if you become pregnant while taking BIKTARVY. � Are breastfeeding (nursing) or plan to breastfeed.

Do not breastfeed. HIV-1 can be passed to the baby in breast milk.

Tell your healthcare provider about all the medicines you take: � Keep a list that includes all prescription and over-the-

counter medicines, antacids, laxatives, vitamins, and herbal supplements, and show it to your healthcare provider and pharmacist.

� BIKTARVY and other medicines may affect each other.

Ask your healthcare provider and pharmacist about medicines that interact with BIKTARVY, and ask if it is safe to take BIKTARVY with all your other medicines.

These are not all the possible side effects of BIKTARVY. Tell your healthcare provider right away if you have any new symptoms while taking BIKTARVY. You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit www.FDA.gov/medwatch or call 1-800-FDA-1088.

Your healthcare provider will need to do tests to monitor your health before and during treatment with BIKTARVY.

HOW TO TAKE BIKTARVY Take BIKTARVY 1 time each day with or without food.

GET MORE INFORMATION � This is only a brief summary of important information

about BIKTARVY. Talk to your healthcare provider or pharmacist to learn more.

� Go to BIKTARVY.com or call 1-800-GILEAD-5 � If you need help paying for your medicine,

visit BIKTARVY.com for program information.

BIKTARVY, the BIKTARVY Logo, GILEAD, the GILEAD Logo, and GSI are trademarks of Gilead Sciences, Inc., or its related companies. Version date: February 2021 © 2022 Gilead Sciences, Inc. All rights reserved. US-BVYC-0008 01/22

#1 PRESCRIBED

HIV TREATMENT * *Source: IQVIA NPA Weekly, 04/19/2019 through 05/28/2021.

HUGO LIVING WITH HIV SINCE 1995 REAL BIKTARVY PATIENT

KEEP EXPLORING. Because HIV doesn’t change who you are.

BIKTARVY® is a complete, 1-pill, once-a-day prescription medicine used to treat HIV-1 in certain adults. BIKTARVY does not cure HIV-1 or AIDS.

Ask your healthcare provider if BIKTARVY is right for you.

ONE SMALL PILL, ONCE A DAY Pill shown not actual size (15 mm x 8 mm) | Featured patient compensated by Gilead.

Please see Important Facts about BIKTARVY, including important warnings, on the previous page and visit BIKTARVY.com.

Scan to see Hugo’s story.

Claudia Castillo ART Studio Celebrating 5 Years of Art on the Drive!

Cover and article photos credit: Claudia Castillo Art Studio “I consider myself very blessed and give thanks each day for the support that I have received from the City of Wilton Manors, its past and present elected officials, my family and this great community that I love dearly and that inspires me to create my art.”

O

n June 17, 2017—the same day as Wilton Manors’s parade and all-day block party in celebration of Stonewall’s 48th anniversary—Claudia Castillo ART studio first opened its doors to the public on Wilton Drive. Claudia and her studio have come a long way since that day—not only because of her beautiful, internationally exhibited artwork, but also because of the service and volunteer efforts that she offers to the Wilton Manors and Broward County community. When you visit Claudia at her studio, you cannot help but feel happiness and a sense of welcome as her energy and passion are contagious and much needed in today’s world.

She describes Claudia Castillo ART studio as “a boutique art gallery in the heart of Wilton Manors that provides a unique variety of original artwork, gifts, jewelry and collectables.” The studio primarily showcases Claudia’s artwork, but it also gives opportunities to local, national, and international artists to exhibit their work as well. You can lose yourself shopping and exploring her studio and always find something new each time you visit.

Claudia Castillo ART studio was an outgrowth of Claudia’s business Color Designers Company, a decorative-art painting business that she started in 2001. The studio was created to provide the ability to showcase her art in a retail setting. However, just a few months after the studio opened, Claudia underwent back fusion surgery. Running the studio became a physically demanding task day in and day out, but Claudia persevered and continued

growing the business—all the while donating her time to city committees, LGBTQ+ groups and other art organizations.

By 2020, Claudia had physically recovered and the studio had become a must-visit destination, but then another challenge struck: the COVID-19 pandemic closed the studio for a period of 3 months. To stay afloat, Claudia painted murals around Wilton Manors, began offering new products and made it easier for clients to buy artwork online. She never lost hope that the studio would survive the pandemic, and sure enough, it reopened in late 2020 and continued to expand its art and retail sales locally and nationally. In 2021, Claudia expanded her artwork further beyond the local community and was invited to exhibit her work internationally in Spain, and Florence, Italy, at the XIII Florence Biennale. In 2022, her work was exhibited in the Netherlands and Switzerland and will be displayed in November in Barcelona.

Claudia is a true inspiration to others with her selfless attitude and service to her community. She volunteers with several local nonprofits, developing and running events such as the Justin Flippen Annual Manatee Contest, which she created with colleague Ron Falk in honor of the late Wilton Manors Mayor Justin Flippen. Last year’s event involved over 600 elementary-school students and raised over $10,000 for the children of Wilton Manors Elementary and Somerset Academy Village in Wilton Manors. The “Rainbow Manatee” sculpture that she created in Flippen’s honor has been recently installed at Justin

OutClique.com | 55

Flippen Park. Claudia is also a member of the Board of Directors of the Greater Fort Lauderdale LGBT Chamber of Commerce and always finds time to support other local LGBTQ+ businesses in South Florida.

Clearly, the community of Wilton Manors loves Claudia back, as evidenced by all the awards the studio has won in the five short years since its founding. On June 17th, Claudia Castillo was selected by the Business Journal as one of the Journal’s 2022 Diverse Voices.

The Diverse Voices Honors Program is part of the South Florida Business Journal’s ongoing Diversity, Equity and Inclusion initiative honoring two dozen diverse executives for excellence in business and their respective fields. The City of Wilton Manors named Claudia Castillo ART Studio the “Skip Stadnik Community Spirit” Volunteer Organization

of the Year for 2022 and proclaimed April 23, 2022, to be “Claudia Castillo ART Studio Day” in Wilton Manors. Claudia was also recognized last December by the Wilton Manors Business Association as the recipient of the 2021 Business Leadership Award.

In 2019, Claudia received a City of Wilton Manors proclamation for Women’s History Month recognizing her service to the community. And, Claudia Castillo ART studio was the recipient of the Award for Best Multi-Line Showroom at the 2018 Design Excellence Awards of the American Society of Interior Designers Florida South Chapter.

On June 17, 2022, Claudia Castillo ART Studio celebrated its 5th anniversary. If you haven’t yet checked out this gem of the Wilton Manors community, pay Claudia a visit. She will always welcome you with her contagious smile and beautiful art.

OutClique.com | 57

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What Happens After Wrinkle Reducers?

According to reports, a percentage of men fear that wrinkle reducers will change their appearance so drastically that they will lose part of their essence.

We spoke with Dimitri Bakoulis at Genesis Health institute about how people see themselves after a wrinkle reducer treatment.

Dimitri shared that the art of treating wrinkles rests in knowing which treatment is best for each area of the face. All cosmetic injections are optimized to provide maximum results in specific zones. So, a customized treatment plan with the proper recommendations for the best approach will result in beautiful and radiant skin with fewer wrinkles.

But, most importantly, Dimitri said that natural-looking results ensure that the person continues to see themselves in a confident and poised fashion.

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There are many wrinkle reducer treatments. The leading brands are Botox Cosmetic, Xeomin, Dysport, and Jeuveau.

Neuromodulators like Botox, Jeuveau, and Dysport are designed to relax facial muscles, reducing the appearance of wrinkles. They work great on frown lines, forehead wrinkles, and crow’s feet. And, for maximum results, they can be combined with a chemical peel for a brighter, more youthful appearance.

Some of the pros offered by the advanced wrinkle reducer treatments offered at Genesis Health Institute are: • Natural and youthful looks • No downtime associated with the procedure • Treatments can last 3 to 4 months The Right Treatment For You Dimitri shared that many patients go to Genesis not knowing what they want. They see unwanted changes like wrinkles, unsightly lines, creases, or folds. Yet, they don’t know the best approach to get rid of them.

“That’s our job,” said Dimitri. “We have many treatment options specifically tailored to the skin type and the patient’s lifestyle.”

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Genesis Health Institute’s Master Injector, Ms. Graci Chevez, PA-C, is a leading cosmetic dermatology and aesthetic treatments expert. She takes time to listen to each patient, learn about their overall wellness, discuss their concerns and analyze their skin. She then creates a customized treatment.

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Learn how Ms. Chevez can slow down the aging process for you. Schedule a complimentary consultation with Genesis Health Institute, conveniently located in Wilton Manors. Call 954-561-3175 or visit ghinstitute.com to learn more.

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Care Resource Opens New Midtown Miami Health Center

C

are Resource, a South Florida-based nonprofit and Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC), announces the opening of its new Midtown Miami location at 3510 Biscayne Blvd. According to Care

Resource’s CEO, Rick Siclari, “Our new health center significantly expands access to health services and transforms the delivery of vital health care and social services for Miami’s rapidly growing populations.”

Care Resource’s new and innovative approach

Modernist architecture (MiMo) - a regional style of

toward health care is reflected in the design of its

architecture that developed in South Florida and can

Midtown Miami health center. “Visiting your doctor

be observed along the Biscayne Boulevard corridor.

can often feel cold, impersonal, and stressful.

We designed our health center to be inviting and

As the gap for health care access widens each year

welcoming for all our patients. This warm and

for underserved populations, this health center is

relaxing atmosphere removes the stress and lets

poised to further serve those individuals that might

our patients know they’re in good hands,” Siclari

otherwise be lost to care. Once the Midtown Miami

explains. The aesthetics support comfort with

health center reaches its capacity, it is estimated

open spaces, large murals and artwork, and cozy

to provide medical and pediatric care to more than

colors that feel more at home, which contributes

7,000 individuals with over 21,000 annual visits.

to improved physical and emotional wellness. In

Additionally, the new dental care services are

addition, the new health center incorporates Miami

estimated to see a substantial increase.

Additional services include behavioral health, HIV prevention and linkage, social support services, and access to healthy food and nutritional counseling through the health center’s Food for Life food pantry and nutritional center. These resources complement an array of comprehensive programs that address key social determinants of health, including housing assistance.

As an accredited Patient-Centered Medical Home (PCMH), all the health center’s services are delivered in one location and raise the bar in defining high-quality care. “This health center goes a long way toward building a healthier community. When people have access to affordable and high-quality primary care, they won’t delay seeking assistance for health concerns, thus avoiding an emergency, and enjoying better health outcomes,” states Siclari.

For almost four decades, Care Resource has provided affordable, high-quality healthcare and support services to the most under-resourced and diverse medically underserved populations. As one of the largest Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHC) in South Florida, Care Resource has four locations throughout Miami-Dade and Broward Counties.

As a safety net for thousands of low-income, uninsured, and underinsured individuals, Care Resource’s patients reflect the unique diversity of the local area, including people of color, women, children,

adolescents,

adults,

veterans,

and

others, and maintains a longstanding commitment to providing services for the LGBTQIA+ and HIV communities. Care Resource’s doors are open to all in need, regardless of the ability to pay.

For more information visit www.CareResource.org.

Content and Photos Courtesy of Care Resource

Photo Courtesy of Memorial Healthcare System

A Few Words on HIV Awareness from Dr. Paula Eckardt

By Denny Patterson

A

s Chief of the Infectious Disease Division within Memorial Healthcare System, Dr. Paula Eckardt specializes in caring for patients with various types of infections including HIV/AIDS. She and her team of physicians, nurses, medical assistants, and office staff all share one goal: to provide comprehensive and compassionate care to those who need it.

Eckardt is also the medical director of Memorial Healthcare System’s Ryan White Clinic, which provides services for people living with HIV/AIDS. Their multidisciplinary team works with patients to ensure they have access to medications, mental health services, and case management services.

OutClique spoke more with Eckardt about her job and HIV awareness.

Denny Patterson: Let me begin by asking, have you always wanted to pursue a career in the medical field?

Dr. Paula Eckardt: I never wanted to be a doctor when I was a young person, but after going to medical school, yes. I like helping people, and I think that’s what I’m supposed to do.

DP: As the Chief of the Infectious Disease Division, what does your job entail?

PE: I have a lot of hats. Initially, I started doing a lot of HIV care, which is what I like to do. Since COVID-19 came in, I have been doing a lot of infection control and stewardship, which means helping the hospital handle multi-drug resistant organisms by helping other providers choose the correct antimicrobials so that we don’t overuse medication. I also work with other types of infectious diseases.

DP: What is your favorite part of the job?

PE: The most rewarding part for me is seeing patients getting well after having an infection that made them very, very sick. That’s the good thing about infections.

If you are able to treat them, usually, the patients do well. We do have people that died from overwhelming infections, and it was very tough when we had the COVID-19 outbreak at the beginning, but most people have overcome their infections, and that is rewarding to see.

DP: Like you said, you work with a lot of patients living with HIV/AIDS, and according to recent statistics, Broward County continues to rank in the top five counties nationally with highest rates of new HIV diagnosis. Why do you think this is?

PE: Well, there are many reasons. I think we still need a lot of testing. People need to understand that they need to know their status, having high risk or not, especially in southern areas of the U.S. A lot of it is probably cultural, so they don’t get tested or seek prevention services to prevent infections. That could be some of the reasons.

Nowadays, it’s very easy to get care because we do have free access to HIV care and treatment. If you don’t have insurance, there is help for people, and people don’t know about that. I think that’s all something that we need to work on and get the word out. There are prevention services where you can prevent getting HIV, and people need to get tested to know their status. If they are high risk, they need to be tested frequently and use prevention medication.

DP: Can you touch a bit more on why it is important to get tested?

PE: Knowing if you’re infected or not is important, as well as knowing the risks. Being in the south, your possibility of acquiring HIV is higher than if you live in the middle of the country. So, just by being here in this area, your risk is higher. If you are a person that has multiple sexual partners, then your risk is probably even higher, but if you don’t, what about your partner?

Just because you’re a monogamous person, you may not know if your partner is or not. Everything comes into consideration when you’re deciding about getting tested, and doctors need to understand that too. They sometimes don’t offer tests to patients because of the stigma related to HIV, and some people don’t want to ask to get tested. It’s very stigmatized. We have a special program in the ER here because a lot of people don’t seek medical attention for primary care.

They just come to the ER for anything that they have, so we implemented a program where we offer HIV testing in the ER. That way, we have detected some patients and linked them to care very quickly and started medication.

DP: What is still a big misconception about HIV/AIDS? OutClique.com | 81

PE: Some people think that HIV is still difficult to treat.

They think of all the medications they’re going to have to take if they are diagnosed, but the reality is, most patients can be treated with a single tablet. Usually, they’re very small. Smaller than a vitamin tablet, and the side effects are mostly minimal. It is rare that somebody can’t take the medication because they have side effects.

Nowadays, we have started using injectables. I hope this area becomes easier for the patients and providers because it is a little complicated to get approved right now through insurance companies. I think it’s going to get better, and injectables are something that people can think about. Not everybody qualifies for it. We have to look into their medical history, but it will be two injections every two months.

DP: We saw that there was a Facebook Live session on National HIV Testing Day. Do you do these live streams often?

PE: We actually have not done any in the past. We usually do some promoting, and sometimes radio, but the idea of doing a Facebook Live came from our directors in the marketing department. We want to be with the times because people sometimes don’t even listen to the radio anymore. People are always on their phones, so we are hoping to reach more people.

DP: What are some long-term goals you hope to achieve with your career?

PE: I want to see the cure of HIV at some point in my life. I have some patients that have been living with HIV for maybe 15 years or so, and they have kind of become friends, so I would love to see a cure before I retire.

DP: Before we wrap up, is there anything else you would like to mention?

PE: We need to understand that people living with HIV can live long, healthy lives. As long as they take their medication, the amount of time they’ll probably live will be the same amount of time as someone without HIV. That stigma is no longer cool and it needs to be stopped.

For more information, visit MHS.net, or contact Eckardt directly at (954) 276-1616.

Share the Light

By Eric Noel Roman Take a moment. Enjoy the fruits of your hard work.

Share the moment with others. As happiness begins to rear its gorgeous head into your life, one cannot forget that it was hard work that got you there.

Embrace the glory.

Once the moment has presented itself, take advantage of sharing and bring others up with you.

In addition, there is a short amount of time where you can bask in your success and show others without seeming arrogant. However, bask too much and it can be seen as gloating. This is where your character shines and you do not overshare.

I have had a wonderful life playing music for so many wonderful people. I love it when I am on stage and everyone is dancing or chanting to the music I curated. People are there to see me and hear me play music I enjoy. The spotlight feels amazing.

Equally, I never forget to step away from the spotlight and let others outshine me. I give credit to those who pushed me up along the way. These are the people who have helped me become the person I am. They are the support structure. Some people have held up emotional pillars in my life, others have professionally guided me. Regardless of where these people fit in, they allow this building to stand.

I find it more important to allow others to have my spotlight as it allows me to absorb the efforts I have put in. More importantly, it gives others a chance to shine brighter than me and it’s a reminder that I am nothing without that structure.

As you grow, let those around you share your happiness. Staying humble is a great way to prolong happiness. Not only are you able to relish in the greatness you have made but it allows others around you to have their moment. In addition, you are able to learn and grow from them as well.

Eric Noel Roman DJ, obstacle racer, motivational writer from North Miami Beach, living life one day at a time, and making a difference one person at a time.

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Museum of Discovery & Science Family Pride Day

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Museum of Discovery & Science Family Pride Day

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Museum of Discovery & Science Family Pride Day

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The Pet Project at the Pub on the Drive

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Nothing but Laughs An Interview with Writer Gary Janetti

By Gregg Shapiro

T

he humorous essay is an artform, one that has been perfected by the likes of gay writers including David Sedaris and the late David Rakoff. It’s a style of prose that can be as entertaining as it is enlightening.

Gary Janetti is another gay writer who is well aware of the benefits of laughter. As a producer and writer for queer sitcoms including Will & Grace and Vicious, Janetti was good at tickling our funny bones. That ability also carries over to the page in Start Without Me (I’ll Be There in a Minute), a collection of 18 linked essays that follow Janetti from his teen years through his 20s to the present, all the while providing multiple opportunities to laugh out loud.

Gregg Shapiro: Gary, I’d like to begin the interview by asking you to say something about your fondness for parentheses, beginning with the one in the title of your book Start Without Me (I’ll Be There in a Minute) and continuing throughout the 18 essays.

Gary Janetti: I guess it’s a device that works for me, that allows me to kind of do asides. It’s like talking to the audience, if you will. It allows you to kind of break out of it and get even a bit more personal or a little bit more kind of conversational. But I don’t know why. I just started doing it and it works for me.

GS: A majority of the essays take readers into your past.

Were you a journal keeper or did you rely on memory when it came to writing about events from that time?

GJ: No, I never kept a journal. I think somebody gave me a journal once when I was in college, and I wrote in it the day that I got it: ‘I’m gonna write in this every day for the rest of my life!’ And that was the last time I ever wrote in it. I rely on my memory.

GS: Do the essays in the book appear in the order in which they were written?

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Photo credit: Alasdair Mclellan

He was generous enough to answer a few questions about the book.

GJ: They do. I thought after I finished, I didn’t know if I would want to keep them in that order. But I guess I had an instinct that hopefully, they would stay in that order because it felt like that’s the order they wanted to be in.

GS: Speaking of order, Start Without Me opens with The

Carol Burnett Show essay, in which you talk about not telling her how much of an influence she was on you when you met her. Even so, do you think you might try to get a copy of your book to her?

GJ: [Laughs] that’s a good question. And the answer is yes. Yeah, I will definitely.

also gets mentioned in the essay “J’s.” Will you be sending her a copy of your book?

GJ: I hadn’t thought of that, Gregg. But now that you mentioned it, why not? Are you aware of The Robyn Byrd Show?

GS: Of course, yes. I didn’t live in New York, but my friend Denise who did once sent me a VHS tape that she had made of it.

GJ: Yeah, it’s so specific. It was our Watch What Happens Live [laughs]!

GS: Well, with a lot more going on, including stripping and nudity.

GJ: It felt like there was something very sweet about it, even though she was interviewing porn stars. Not that one is exclusive of the other, but it had this kind of ‘Let’s put on a show’ charm to it. In hindsight now, I’m like, ‘Aww.’

what I felt. I think that’s it. I didn’t really approach it any differently. I allowed myself to not worry about having to be funny.

GS: Your husband Brad Goreski appears in the

“Destination Weddings” essay. How do you negotiate writing about him? For example, does he have to approve of the way he’s represented?

GJ: No, no, not at all. He probably read it around the same time you read it. There’s nothing to negotiate. I could write anything that I wanted. He appeared in the first book, I think, a bit more than he appears in this book.

I actually thought he might appear more in here. What I’m writing about is mostly a time way before him, but I’m looking at it from now, so he becomes a part of that.

He trusts me. He doesn’t read anything until it’s literally done. I don’t like people, aside from my editor (reading it). I’d rather just get it done.

GS: ‘Aww,’ is perfect. In the essay “Teaching Ten Little Fingers to Play,” you write about the song “Hard Candy Christmas” from the musical The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas. Would you care to share your thoughts on the renditions of that song performed by Dolly Parton in the movie and/or RuPaul’s rendition from his 1997 holiday album?

GJ: Oh, I didn’t know RuPaul had a rendition. I’ll have to listen to that. I obviously love Dolly’s rendition, but at the time, this was before the film. So, what I was listening to and what I was fixated on was the original cast recording.

Also, just the sheet music. I just liked the song so much [laughs]. I didn’t realize how kind of inappropriate it was for a 12 or 13-year-old. But at the same time, incredibly appropriate.

GS: While most of the essays have a strong comedic element, there are also serious moments, such as in the “Grandma” essay when you hear the story about the grandmother you never knew defending the gay nephew of one of her neighbors. Please say something about how you approach serious subject matter versus humorous material.

GJ: By trying not to think too much of it. By trying to be honest as best I could. By just trying to write exactly

Stay up-to-date and connect with Janetti by following him on Twitter and Instagram @gayjanetti.

Start Without Me (I’ll Be There in a Minute) is now available to purchase at all book retailers.

Photo Courtesy of Henry Holt Publishers

GS: Public access TV host and superstar Robin Byrd

Photo Courtesy of Mike Ruiz

Hallelujah!

It’s Your Original Weather Girl Martha Wash

By Denny Patterson

K

nown for her distinct and powerful voice, twotime Grammy Award nominee Martha Wash has dominated the airwaves with her charisma and talent, while embracing millions of people around the world.

She first achieved fame as part of Two Tons O’ Fun, who sang backup vocals for disco great Sylvester, including his signature hit “You Make Me Feel (Mighty Real).”

After achieving their own record deal and releasing three commercially successful hits, the duo changed their name to The Weather Girls in 1982 after their top-selling single “It’s Raining Men” brought them to mainstream pop attention. Forty years later, it remains a cult classic and gay anthem that can be heard anywhere and everywhere.

Wash’s career creates a colorful history, telling the story of dance and pop music from the days of disco to the present, and she has toured and performed with the world’s top entertainers.

OutClique caught up with the legendary artist to talk more about “It’s Raining Men,” and more.

Denny Patterson: Thank you for taking some time to chat with me, Martha! In June, you returned to your hometown of San Francisco and performed at its Pride celebration.

How exciting was that?

Martha Wash: It was a homecoming, so I was very excited and happy to do it. It’s been quite a few years since I performed at San Francisco Pride.

DP: How meaningful is it for you to perform at Pride

advocate, you have worked to bring awareness to HIV/ AIDS issues. Sadly, you lost a lot of friends during the AIDS epidemic, including Sylvester, who you frequently collaborated with. How do you reflect on that period of time?

MW: It was horrible. Very, very horrible because, naturally, it was a quote unquote gay disease. It’s always like, blame it on the little people first. It couldn’t be anything that was higher up in socio economic status, so it was always touted as a gay disease. As time went on, we found out that it wasn’t just necessarily a gay disease. Everybody was getting it. Unfortunately, yes, it was a large number of gay people, but as time went on, straight people were getting it too. So, that’s the sad part about that, and losing so many friends, family members, and people that you’ve worked with in the business. It was really crazy.

DP: I can’t even imagine. Well, moving to a happier topic,

your iconic song “It’s Raining Men” is celebrating its 40th anniversary this year. Looking back, did you ever expect it to become such a monumental gay anthem?

MW: No, and that’s the crazy part for me. I wasn’t thinking like that because I told Paul Jabara, I don’t think anybody’s going to really buy that song. Needless to say, Paul Jabara really pushed the song, and it was a huge hit in the clubs.

Gay clubs especially, but long before mainstream radio even picked up on it, it was a hit. The gay community kind of snatched that song and made it an anthem for them (laughs).

DP: For those who don’t know, how did that song come

people coming out and celebrating themselves, people that are like them, and people who support them. I think everybody should be celebrated, but unfortunately, that’s not the case. So, you have to be able to celebrate yourself and others like you. Unfortunately, the LGBTQ community is very low on the totem pole as far as rights and things, and although it’s slowly getting better, it’s still not enough.

to fruition?

MW: Paul Jabara asked Izora and me to record the song, and we said no. Like I said, we didn’t think it was going to work, and he literally pleaded with us to record the song.

He told us who had turned it down previously, like Diana Ross, Barbra Streisand, Donna Summer, and Cher, they all passed on it. Years later, I thought about it and started laughing. I’m thinking to myself, can you imagine Barbra Streisand singing “It’s Raining Men?” It just doesn’t quite click. So, I guess it was meant to be us.

DP: Yes, there is still a lot of work to be done. As a LGBTQ

DP: How do you feel when you see audiences today

celebrations?

MW: It means a lot to me. Pride is a celebration of

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still singing and dancing along to your songs that have become timeless club classics?

MW: That’s exactly what it is. It’s a classic, and the thing is, it has morphed so much into one of those fun songs that everybody sings. It’s played at weddings, bar mitzvahs, all kinds of parties. You got the grandparents dancing to it, the kids dancing to it, and even the grandkids dancing to it.

It just became one of those classic songs that everybody can have fun with, and that means the world to me.

DP: What have you always hoped audiences take away from your music?

MW: Well, the music that I’m doing now is totally different

from the dance music that everybody knows me for.

Moreso, I would say this is kind of reflective music. Songs that kind of speak to the people and hopefully makes them feel good, but also reflective. That they can really connect with the lyrics of the song.

DP: Is there a secret in how you have kept your voice

intact all these years?

MW: (Laughs) No. It has changed quite a bit because I’m older now, but I just work with what I’ve got.

DP: You are also currently traveling the country with your

First Ladies of Disco tour. How has that been going, and what can audiences expect?

MW: It’s been really nice, and I think people can expect to have a lot of fun. I want them to think about the songs that they danced to when they were younger. Remember those songs, sing along, and dance. Think of the good times when you were younger and dancing away in the club!

DP: What more do you hope to accomplish with your career and platform?

record a gospel album, but it hasn’t come about yet. So, I’d still like to do that, and I’d like to continue working with First Ladies of Disco. We’re kind of known as a heritage act because we’re up in that age bracket where I think some people think that the older you get, the less relevant you become. I dare to say that’s not true, and I would also say to them, if you’re young, wait until you get a little older and see if you feel the same way. Overall, I hope to just remain relevant, create music, and produce shows that people will enjoy.

Stay up-to-date and connect with Wash by following her on Facebook @TheMarthaWash and Twitter @Martha_Wash, or visit her official website, MarthaWash.com.

To find out where First Ladies of Disco will be playing, visit FirstLadiesofDiscoShow.com.

Photo Courtesy of Mike Ruiz

MW: Gosh, I really don’t know. I keep saying I want to

Ed Hashek, Todd Masnicki, Deborah Floyd and John Jors

Philanthropy and Fashion Made for an Elegant Evening During FAB’s “Black & White: Night At The Museum”

A

rts and philanthropic supporters enjoyed a multicultural evening of fine art, entertainment, wine and decadent dessert creations during Funding Arts Broward’s (FAB) fifth annual “Black & White: A Night At The Museum” special event on April 25 at NSU Art Museum Fort Lauderdale.

The non-profit organization, committed to preserving and cultivating the arts in Broward County, hosted more than 100 top arts advocates who were treated to musical performances by Dillard High School Center for the Arts students. Immediately following, Bonnie Clearwater, director and chief curator of NSU Art Museum, led them on a private tour of Lux et Veritas, presented by S. Donald Sussman and sponsored

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by Funding Arts Broward. The exhibit highlights a transformative period in contemporary art that focused on a generation of artists of color who attended Yale School of Art for graduate studies between 2000 and 2010. The exhibition’s title alludes to Yale University’s motto, “Lux et Veritas,” which translates from Latin to “Light and Truth.” In the context of this exhibition, the title references how these artists thought with critical complexity about their work and their movement through institutional structures. Featured artists include Mike Cloud, William Cordova, Njideka Akunyili Crosby, Abigail DeVille, Torkwase Dyson, John Espinosa, Luis Gispert, Rashawn Griffin, Leslie Hewitt, Loren Holland, Titus Kaphar, Jamerry Kim, Eric N. Mack, Wardell Milan, Wangechi Mutu, Mamiko Otsubo, Ronny Qevedo,

Mickalene Thomas, Anna Tsouhlarakis, Shoshanna Weinberger and Kehinde Wiley. The exhibit is on display through January 8, 2023.

About Funding Arts Broward (FAB)

“Black & White: A Night At The Museum” is one of several FAB Fun events that showcase the variety of innovative arts programming in Broward County. FAB gives members exclusive yearly access to signature events and behind-the-scenes looks at arts and culture grantee exhibits and performances. FAB will announce its upcoming programs and special events schedule in September.

Funding Arts Broward, (FAB) is a non-profit volunteerbased organization committed to preserving and cultivating the arts in Broward County, Florida.

FAB’s mission is to support, sustain and enrich the arts in our community. Since its inception in 2003, the organization has granted over $4 million to local visual and performing arts programming.

More information about FAB can be found at fundingartsbroward.org. Follow us on Facebook at facebook.com/fundingartsbroward.

Sharikay Sloboda, Yolanda Perez and Gina Robichaux

Dan Bright, Valerie Martinez, Maryann Leibowitz and Michael Leibowitz

Gui Proenca and Patrick Muehleise

Linda Brand, Zelda Neustadter and Rebecca Jones

To learn more about FAB and how to join, please call (954) 353-7673, visit fundingartsbroward.org.

Content Courtesy of Funding Arts Broward and Goodman PR | Photos Courtesy of Michael Murphy Photography

Cory David Sanders Sets the Standard for Service

By John Hayden

I

f you go out at all in Wilton Manors, especially at Eagle Wilton Manors, you’ve seen Cory David Sanders.

You may not know his name, but you’ve seen him. You or someone you know has likely been touched by his work. He’s an active member of the leather community, including a stint as Mr. Eagle, but he’s an even more active member of the South Florida community at-large.

The community has taken notice.

Photo Courtesy of Sabino Paulicelli

The city of Wilton Manors honored Sanders’ work with a proclamation and declared February 1, 2022, as Cory David Sanders Day in the city.

“He gives back and volunteers for a lot of things in Wilton Manors,” Mayor Scott Newton tells OutClique. “One of the great things he does is raise money for the children in our community. He’s a great asset for us here in our city.”

The proclamation reads, in part, “Cory’s passion for supporting a cause and making a difference is guided by a principle instilled by a selfless philanthropist and admitted friend that stated ‘No one can do everything, still everyone can do something. Ask yourself what can I do to make a difference? Then do it from the heart.’”

Sanders has been a member of the leather community since he walked into a leather bar in Indianapolis 30 years ago. He says he immediately felt at home and had started to find a ‘chosen family.’ Before landing in South Florida, he was in Chicago where he became a part of the community and ran for Mr. Chicago. He would have won if not for an overly loquacious answer during the Q&A portion of the pageant. Once he got here, he competed in the Mr. Ramrod Pageant before taking the title of Mr. Eagle.

With or without pageants and titles, Sanders has been giving back to his community for years. First in the fight against HIV/AIDS, which was raging when he joined the community in the early 90s. Now, he works with Mama’s Helping Hands Foundation in Wilton Manors.

“Treat people as you want to be treated,” he tells OutClique. “It’s as simple as that.”

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Sanders uses his titles as a platform to increase his impact. He formed a team to support him and his work, and their efforts are tireless. Among his work is to raise money for gift cards so people in need can shop for what they need.

“We were brought up to be kind,” he says.

That kind of attitude carried through with him into adulthood. Sanders doesn’t like to talk about himself.

When talking with OutClique, he kept talking about others. His team, Mama’s, Kevin (the new Mr. Eagle), and many others got praise from him. Rarely did he say the words “I” or “me.”

It’s all a reflection of his attitude that it takes a whole community to make a community whole.

“If one person does that and then thirty people do the same thing, wow, think of what we can do with that much.

It’s not just money, but also time,” Newton said. Sanders offered a simple yet powerful agreement. “If we’re 100 percent together, we can accomplish anything.”

Broward Center for the Performing Arts

August 13, 2022

Canadian Drag Icon Jimbo is Coming to South Florida

By Denny Patterson Photos Courtesy of Fernando Cysneiros

W

ar on the Catwalk, the world famous drag show starring contestants from RuPaul’s Drag Race franchises around the world, will be coming to the Broward Center on Saturday, August 13, 2022.

Presented by Murray and Peter, the production will hit 37 cities in less than two months, and the host and lineup of queens of each will vary city to city. The Fort Lauderdale show will be hosted by Miz Cracker (U.S. Season 10, All Stars 5), with performances by Kornbread “The Snack” Jeté (U.S. Season 14), Heidi N Closet (U.S. Season 12), The Vivienne (winner, UK Season 1), Krystal Versace (winner, UK Season 3), Icesis Couture (winner, Canada Season 2), and Jimbo (Canada Season 1, UK vs the World), who OutClique had the pleasure of catching up with.

Hailing from Victoria, British Columbia, Jimbo instantly captured the hearts of viewers with her quick wit and unique style of drag. Unafraid to challenge the judges, not only was she a standout player among the queens of the North, but as one of the all-time greats among the global queer franchise.

Denny Patterson: Hi, Jimbo! Can you begin by telling us what audiences can expect from War on the Catwalk?

Jimbo: War on the Catwalk is basically all of your favorite Drag Race queens from the North America and UK franchises. It’s a broad, sort of diverse cast of all different types of drag, and there’s a lot of glamor, beauty, sparkle, and comedy. We all get along so well, and the show has this fun energy. We all bring a different flavor, and each number is as exciting as the next. The audiences give each queen an amazing response and so much love.

DP: Can you give us a hint as to what we’ll see from your particular set?

J: I have been touring my Casper from the talent show

on UK vs the World. I wanted to sort of bring a little bit of the cabaret into War on the Catwalk and showcase another aspect of mine, which is clowning. It’s just another dimension of the whole show, and even though it’s a diversion from drag, it still fits within the world. This funny other performance style that’s showcased, so that’s really cool. Then my other performance is to a track called

“Boobs,” and it’s just this comedic song about boobs. I have a fun reveal that makes everyone laugh, and there’s sort of an unexpected twist in the middle of that number.

DP: How does War on the Catwalk differ from Werq the World?

J: I think War on the Catwalk differs from Werq the World

in that it has a bigger cast, and I think it’s also a rotating cast. Werq the World has their staple cast, and then they bring in a small rotating cast, usually of the most current queens from Drag Race’s U.S. franchise. War on the Catwalk is different just because it brings in some of these other beloved queens from other franchises like Canada’s Drag Race and Drag Race UK. I also think it differs in the performance style. Because War on the Catwalk draws in a different pool of performers, it offers a different variety of drag.

DP: What are you enjoying the most about traveling and performing alongside so many wonderful Drag Race girls?

J: It really is a sisterhood on the road. We have some

beautiful buses, so it feels like you’ve run away with this glamorous circus. This is such a fun traveling road show where each night feels as exciting as the last, and the cast really gets a chance to bond and tighten the show up. The audience can relax because they know they’re in for a really fun show, and they know that they’re in good hands.

I’m just so excited about being with my sisters and touring the U.S. for the first time.

DP: For those who do not know, how did Jimbo come to be, and how did you discover your passion for drag?

J: I have always been interested in storytelling, costume

design, and transformation. At a young age, I was always interested in drag, and I was always interested in being other than our presenting self. It has always been exciting to explore other parts of myself and discover other facets of my character; who I am through performance and clowning. I saw the joy I could get out of clowning, which is really about being immediate and being connected to your audience. Drag is very similar to that. It’s all about being connected to an audience and storytelling through a song, so from clowning, I moved into drag. Now, I sort of do this mix of the two where I do this elevated beautiful drag, but

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then I have this twist that can be ugly, silly, or funny. It’s glamor with a sense of humor.

people identify with a bit of that struggle. So, I wouldn’t change anything. It was fun, crazy and awesome.

DP: Obviously, the world fell in love with you when you

DP: You then came back to compete on UK vs the World.

competed on the inaugural season of Canada’s Drag Race. Why did you want to go on the show?

J: I wanted to be on the show because I love connecting with people. I made a dream and a wish years ago about wanting to be friends with anyone on the street. I wanted to figure out how I could have friends around the world. And now through Drag Race and performing on a television show, I’ve been given a platform and a portal to connect with people and fans with similar interests, and maybe similar stories. I can inspire them, tell stories, and make people laugh with a version that speaks to them that’s maybe not seen elsewhere. I think there’s a uniqueness that’s familiar, but also different.

DP: Looking back, is there anything you would have done

differently?

J: I don’t think so. I really loved the whole thing. Looking back, obviously, there were some intense judging aspects to that season, but that created a dynamic story. A lot of people were speaking about the show, and that helped amplify it and bring it to more audiences. So, it all worked out perfectly. It wasn’t easy for me as an artist and being someone that’s always had to explain my point of view and always had to sort of fight to be seen, that was no surprise.

I knew it wasn’t going to be easy for me. Being a weirdo or being on the outside, you’re always fighting against ideas, ideals, and norms, so of course I wanted to go into that competition and be at the top and be celebrated all the way through, but I was a little bit more of the underdog, and I think that’s relatable for people. Life is hard, and

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What did you take away from that experience and being judged by RuPaul for the first time?

J: Being judged by RuPaul for the first time was a dream come true. After years of wishing, hoping, planning, and thinking how it would ever happen, and then to actually live in your dream, it was so surreal. We had a great connection on set that was really fun. I was inspired and wanted to show my best self, so I had a great experience with Ru and being on the show with Ru.

DP: Your elimination on UK vs the World has been

dubbed as one of the most “controversial” in the history of the franchise. What was going through your mind when that happened?

J: I was completely shocked. I’ve kind of compared it to being in a race car and being in the lead while going 200 mph, but then someone else pulls your brake. You’re like, that’s not what’s supposed to happen, and I just flew out of the car and smashed onto the ground. Like, that’s the end of that. It was an abrupt, shocking, sad turn of events, but it was a great story. The beauty about Drag Race is that you’re a part of the franchise and you’re a part of this story, as long as the audience is interested in your story and interested in seeing what’s going to happen next. Obviously, everything I had worked for stopped right there at that moment, but then over time, I realized that was just one moment in time, one part of my career, one bit of my story, and of course I wanted to win, but it was also another case of the audience getting behind the underdog or someone they wanted to see go further. In a

way, it just added to the story and added to the audience’s experience. It was an intense moment, and when you’re telling stories, making television, and wanting to have impact, those are the moments that really do that. Being the person that it happened to was not necessarily the greatest, but it was crazy, interesting, and made for this wild online controversy. I just know that’s not the end, and there’s more to come. I’m at peace with it all, and of course, I love Pangina. There are no hard feelings there.

DP: Did you feel vindicated when she was eliminated the

following week?

J: I sure did! (Laughs). If that story had gone differently following that, like if she went on to win the whole thing, I probably would feel different. I might have felt a little bit more sour, but everyone sort of wanted that to happen in this weird way. When you’re watching a story objectively and you see those dynamics happen, you kind of want there to be a balance and you want it to swing back in this weird way. That’s what happened. It was sort of this weird, bittersweet moment where people were really rooting for Pangina because she’s an amazing drag performer, and she was also killing it. We were both doing very, very well.

It was hard because we lost another front runner, but you also get this excitement out of someone getting some sort of karma or just desserts.

DP: If asked to compete again, would you?

J: I’ll do anything. I love saying yes and seeing what happens. I would love to do any form of shows, plays,

tours, music, gigs, and I actually have new music coming out later this summer. I’m open to anything. I just love saying yes and seeing what happens.

DP: What more do you hope to accomplish with your

career and platform?

J: I hope to continue being a boundary pusher and being someone that’s making people laugh. Bringing out new ideas, being forward thinking, and being funny. That’s very important to me. A big part of clowning is surprise, so that’s what we as artists are supposed to do. Keep surprising ourselves and the world with new ways of seeing things, thinking about things, or presenting things. I hope to stay fresh and keep people thinking and engaged. I also want to spread positivity and show as many people as possible that it’s okay to be the best version of yourself. Find those versions of yourself, explore them, and share them.

DP: Before we wrap up, are there any other upcoming

projects or anything else you’d like to mention or plug?

J: Basically, my plan is to just keep being an artist and to keep exploring all facets of expression. I have my House of Jimbo show, which I’m continuing to pitch, develop, and look for funding for, and I have a new show coming up with WOW Presents, a new talk show called It’s My Special Show. I have an EP coming out later this summer, and I am also working on new merch. It’s my dream to have a fashion line or a clothing brand. So, I’m working on all that, and then I have my tours with Murray and Peter. Working to build this empire is very time consuming!

Stay up-to-date and connect with Jimbo by following him on Twitter (@JimboDragClown) and Instagram (@JimbotheDragClown), or visit his official website, HouseofJimbo.com.

Visit BrowardCenter.org for more information and to purchase tickets for War on the Catwalk.

One In Two Is All About Perspective

By John Hayden Photos Courtesy of Island City Stage

T

hree actors sit in an ethereal waiting room. Each performance, the audience chooses which actor must portray the lead character of a Black man diagnosed with HIV in Island City Stage’s newest production of One In Two by Donja R. Love. This compelling story, an unflinching portrait of being Black and gay in America today, will run from August 4 – September 4, 2022. “One in Two” is the final production of the award-winning theater company’s 10th Anniversary 2021-22 South Florida Season.

“One in Two” refers to the current HIV projection rate that 1 in 2 black men who have sex with men (MSM) and 1-in-4 Latino MSM in the United States will be diagnosed with HIV during their lifetime, according to a 2016 analysis by researchers at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Unlike other plays, in this production, the audience chooses nightly which actor must portray the fated lead character.

Actors Kevane La’Marr, Randall Swinton, and Nathaniel J. Ryan take on the roles which pose an extra challenge.

La’Marr told OutClique, ”With many shows, rehearsing four to five hours a day would be enough to get the show up on its feet and prepared for an audience; however, this show requires that the rehearsal process continue outside of the theater. The three of us actors were all very aware that we were going to have to sleep, eat, and breathe this piece and only this for the next couple of months, which means that we are in rehearsal for about five hours a day.” But that’s only part of the process. “In order to be wholly prepared for the epic ride of this play, we would have to spend potentially another 5-6 hours of studying the script in an attempt to be word perfect, as well as spend time creating and nurturing the relationships within our brotherhood of the three actors.”

That extra time is spent by all three actors, with Ryan saying, “It’s really about memorizing the entire play, all

81 pages. It’s memorizing everyone’s lines so I can be prepared as much as possible.”

Swinton says the audience choosing the roles is an artistic choice that carries through the show. “The play has a way of bringing to the foreground the important role the audience plays as viewers and spectators.

The high number of HIV transmissions within our community is still an epidemic. As these numbers grow, there will always be a reality of individuals who have the power to use the evidence that they witness

August 4 - September 4, 2022 at Island City Stage

to spread awareness and change to the community regarding the spread of HIV. There is still an aura of discussing these topics being seen as taboo, especially within the Black community. The openness to discuss these topics, but center it around Black lives with Black actors allows audience members who are not a part of the Black community, or even the gay community, to ponder how they might be able to alter their role solely

from a spectator or an audience member to helper, or at least someone who is more willing to talk openly about topics that were once seen as taboo to affect change in more lives.”

Ryan echoes those thoughts, saying, “There needs to be a bigger and better dialogue on what it means to be HIV+ in the Black community.”

One In Two runs August 4-September 4 at Island City Stage, located at 2304 N. Dixie Hwy. in Wilton Manors. For tickets, visit IslandCityStage.org.

South Miami-Dade Cultural Arts Center Is an Important and Diverse Arts & Culture Anchor in the Community Dedicated to presenting and supporting arts and culture, as well as providing access to the arts for the entire South Florida community, the South Miami-Dade Cultural Arts Center (SMDCAC) has served as an important and diverse anchor institution since it was founded in October 2011.

SMDCAC ushered in a new era for South Dade when it first opened its doors to the people of the coastal community of Cutler Bay. But its appeal continues to reach across the region, season after season, with a stunning array of world-class dance and musical performances, holiday special events, and family-friendly shows.

Designed to Reflect Our Culture Featuring a 961-seat main stage theater, the design team for this state-of-the-art venue was led by award-winning architectural firm Arquitectonica – internationally acclaimed for such notable projects as Icon Brickell and Brickell City Centre in Miami, and Ft. Lauderdale’s waterfront Ritz Carlton Resort & Residences.

Also featuring prominent works of art by Miami artist Robert Chambers, this striking multi-disciplinary cultural arts center stages everything from opera to film, musicals, bands, dance, and stand-up comedy, while also acting as a community gathering place with education and outreach at the core of its mission.

A calendar of diverse performances every season means there’s something for everyone at SMDCAC. Partnering with a number of top-tier arts organizations, the center presents productions ranging from the Miami Lyric Opera to the Miami Youth Ballet, Dimensions Dance Theatre of Miami, and Sin Salida.

About SMDCAC SMDCAC is managed by the Miami-Dade County Department of Cultural Affairs, with funding support from the Office of the Miami-Dade County Mayor and Board of County Commissioners.

The Center is dedicated to presenting and supporting arts and culture and providing access to the arts to the entire South Florida community.

For more information visit www.smdcac.org.

Culture Shock and Much More A major priority at the SMDCAC is making theater and the performing arts accessible to everyone in the community, so it offers many generous programs including “Culture Shock Miami,” which provides $5 tickets to select shows for patrons ages 13 to 22. Other discounts are available for senior citizens, students, and active military personnel.

In addition to its beautiful main stage, there’s a collection of smaller venues onsite at SMDCAC. The Black Box Theater and Lab Theater are both multipurpose spaces that can be arranged to stage intimate performances, rehearsals, and auditions. Each has a capacity of 129 people.

The Dance Rehearsal Studio boasts high ceilings with sprung wood floors and mirrors with a sound and video system.

Additionally, a classroom with gorgeous floor-to-ceiling windows provides space for workshops, master classes, meetings, and luncheons. Set against the picturesque Black Creek Canal, the center boasts an impressive backyard concert lawn and plaza for festive outdoor performances and events for up to 700 people.

Make it a Magical Outing Whether it’s a night at the opera or the jaunty notes of a brass band under the stars, SMDCAC is a world-class venue and a cornerstone of the arts community that appeals to the entire South Florida region.

With its 961-seat main stage theater, the South Miami-Dade Cultural Arts Center located in Cutler Bay is truly a feast for the eyes.

SMDCAC is located at 10950 SW 211 St., Cutler Bay, FL 33189.

For information and a full schedule of upcoming events, visit www.smdcac.org or call the box office at 786-573-5300.

Light Field by Robert Chambers illuminates the translucent inner lobby wall with changing designs.

It is the policy of Miami-Dade County to comply with all of the requirements of the Americans with Disabilities Act. The facility is accessible and assistive listening devices are available in the Main Stage Auditorium and the Black Box Theater space. To request materials in accessible format, sign language interpreters, CART, and/or any accommodation to attend an event |at the South Miami-Dade Cultural Arts Center, please contact Stephanie Aponte, 786-573-5314, stephanie.aponte@miamidade.gov, at least five days in advance to initiate your request, TTY users may also call 711 (Florida Relay Service).

South Miami-Dade Cultural Arts Center Celebrates Fall-Winter Season with Diverse Range of Engaging Performances for All Audiences Musical Tributes, Dance, Family Events, and Holiday Shows Take the Stage at One of South Florida’s Most Stunning Venues The applause just keeps coming as the 2022 season at the South Miami-Dade Cultural Arts Center (SMDCAC) moves into the fall with a fabulous lineup of performances that includes world-class dance, world music, holiday special events, and family-friendly performances.

“SMDCAC is proud to present a diverse range of engaging performances that appeal to all audiences, and our Summer and Fall lineup continues our tradition of providing something for everyone,” says Eric Fliss, Managing Director at SMDCAC. “Our goal is to not only provide excellent programming and arts opportunities for all who live, work, and play in South Miami-Dade, but the entire South Florida community.”

The Pablo Cruise Band

SMDCAC also hosts one of the best parties in South Florida, Backyard Bash VIII, a free annual celebration of culture and music happening Oct. 22 at the Center’s concert lawn. Backyard Bash features two stellar “soft rock” groups, one of the most commercially successful genres from the mid-1970s to the mid-1980s.

• The Pablo Cruise Band playing hits such as “Love Will Find a Way,” and “Whatcha Gonna Do,” as well as other numbers that rocked the Billboard Top 100 charts.

• Also performing will be country-rock sensation, Pure Prairie League, whose hit “Amie” became a Billboard Top 40 hit, and whose music helped pave the way for country rockers like Keith Urban, Nickel Creek, and more.

VOLVER by Tango Lovers

Also, this season, patrons are invited to celebrate the richness of cultural music and dance with performances by the National Dance Theatre Company of Jamaica (Oct. 1), as well as VOLVER

by Tango Lovers (Oct. 23) and Farruquito (Nov. 5), direct from Spain – a stunning Flamenco show performed by a legendary artist of one of the greatest Gypsy flamenco bloodlines.

And, of course, South Florida’s all-time favorites, such as The Nutcracker (Dec. 3); and Seraphic Fire Christmas, back for its 30th season (Dec. 18), promise to make for a joyful celebration of the holidays.

Engage with Arts & Culture “We look forward to seeing our community returning to live performances and engaging with arts and cultural activities,” Mr. Fliss added. “With flexible subscription packages available, we’re anticipating welcoming families again and again throughout the course of the season.”

When arts and culture enthusiasts build their own subscription package, they have access to the best seats and can save up to 20 percent. Dance fans can also subscribe to the dance package, which includes four dance shows and a 25 percent discount. Eligible performances are noted below.

To build a subscription package or purchase tickets, the SMDCAC Box Office is open in person Tuesday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.; and Saturday from noon to 5 p.m.

Farruquito

Box Office Contact Info The Box Office can be reached at 786-573-5300 or boxoffice@smdcac.org.

Tickets can also be purchased online. For a complete schedule of performances, visit SMDCAC.org.

Sherlock Holmes: The Exhibition at the Phillip and Patricia Frost Museum of Science TEST YOUR POWERS OF OBSERVATION

Step into Victorian London and test your powers of observation as you work alongside the world’s most famous detective. Experience this interactive exhibition as you embark on a riveting journey into the mind of the world’s most famous detective.

In Sherlock Holmes: The Exhibition at Frost Science, you will be transported into Sherlock Holmes’ London to solve a mystery in a world newly introduced to his groundbreaking methods. You’ll discover clues and work to solve the mystery. You’ll meet some suspicious and notso-suspicious characters. Once you’ve completed your investigation, you’ll be whisked back into the present day with a pop culture gallery that shows Sherlock Holmes in all his manifestations.

On View through September 5 reserve tickets at frostscience.org

Sherlock Holmes: The Exhibition was developed by Exhibits Development Group and Geoffrey M. Curley + Associates in collaboration with the Conan Doyle Estate Limited, the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry.

1101 Biscayne Blvd., Miami, FL 33132 The Phillip and Patricia Frost Museum of Science is supported by the Miami-Dade County Department of Cultural Affairs and the Cultural Affairs Council, the Miami-Dade County Mayor and Board of County Commissioners of Miami-Dade County. This project is supported by the Building Better Communities Bond Program and the City of Miami. Sponsored in part by the State of Florida, Department of State, Division of Arts and Culture, and the Florida Council on Arts and Culture. The museum is accredited by the American Alliance of Museums, is an affiliate of the Smithsonian Institution and a member of the Association of Science and Technology Centers.

This interactive experience showcases the areas of forensic science that enabled Sherlock Holmes to solve crimes and brings to life the historic underpinnings of author Sir Arthur Conan Doyle’s vibrant stories. The exhibition features detailed stage sets, elaborate Victorian-style exhibits, and interactive evidence stations.

Learn how Sherlock Holmes used trivial observations of clues others missed to solve some of his era’s most mysterious crimes. His practices and techniques changed the way police work was conducted and remain in practice today. Sherlock Holmes: The Exhibition features original manuscripts and period artifacts, investigative tools used by Sherlock Holmes, and interactive crime-solving opportunities.

Pop culture enthusiasts will enjoy the exhibition’s final gallery, housing a robust collection of all things “Sherlockian,” ranging from vintage Sherlock Holmes-themed card games, magazines to radio scripts, and movie and television show props and costumes. Featured are hero props from the Sherlock Holmes movies, alongside costumes, props and behind the scenes tools from the hit CBS television shows Elementary and the BBC’s Sherlock. The exhibition will offer museum guests the most comprehensive display anywhere of Sherlock Holmes as portrayed in popular imagination over the last 126 years.

Sherlock Holmes: The Exhibition will be on view through September 5, 2022 inside the Hsiao Family Special Exhibition Gallery. Admission to Sherlock Holmes: The Exhibition is included with all museum admission tickets.

Content Courtesy of Phillip and Patricia Frost Museum of Science

AUGUST 28 Au-Rene Theater

TICKETS at BrowardCenter.org Performances at the Broward Center and The Parker are supported by the Broward Performing Arts Foundation

The Aventura Arts & Cultural Center

Delivers Music and Comedy This September

September 17 and 18 The Spouse Whisperer Mark Cordes

T

he comical side of relationships and the blockbuster hits of a pop music superstar come to life at Aventura Arts & Cultural Center this September.

Entertainment Events Inc. presents The Spouse Whisperer Mark Cordes on Saturday, September 17 at 8 p.m. and Sunday, September 18 at 3 p.m. An inventive comedian and humorist, Cordes delivers his hilarious insight into relationships from first date to exploring all the ups and downs of marriage. On his website, he notes, “My favorite jokes are about relationships - how to spice up your current relationship, or how to get out of a bad one.” Cordes has been performing in comedy clubs, corporate events and charitable functions for more than 30 years. Tickets are $45-$55.

South Florida Legends presents This is Elton, The Tribute on Saturday, September 24 at 8 p.m. This

September 24 This is Elton, The Tribute

sing-along, visually stunning concert of Elton John’s music features hit after hit with such songs as: “Rocket Man,” “Candle In The Wind,” “Saturday Night’s Alright,” “Levon,” “Philadelphia Freedom” and many more.

Garnering five Grammy® Awards and 35 nominations, John’s chart topping hits have ruled the airways since 1970 with the release of “Your Song.” This concert has sold-out to standing ovations all over the world. Tickets are $49-$59.

Ticketmaster is the only official ticketing service of the Aventura Arts & Cultural Center. Buy tickets online at AventuraCenter.org, by phone at 877.311.7469 or 954.462.0222, or in person at the Aventura Arts & Cultural Center box office Tuesday through Saturday from noon to 5 p.m. and 90 minutes prior to each performance. For Group Sales, please call 954.660.6307.

The Aventura Arts & Cultural Center is located at 3385 N.E. 188 Street in Aventura.

Join the conversation, Twitter, Facebook, Instagram @aventuracenter or #aventuracenter Content provided by Pierson Grant Public Relations | Photos Courtesy of Aventura Arts & Cultural Center

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Drawn to Life Presented by Cirque du Soleil and Disney Now Open at Walt Disney World Resort

T

he highly anticipated new collaboration from Cirque du Soleil and Disney, Drawn to Life, is wowing audiences five nights a week at the iconic white tent theatre at Disney Springs at Walt Disney World Resort.

The show is a love letter to Disney Animation interpreted through Cirque du Soleil’s acrobatic performances, dazzling choreography, innovative design and eclectic costuming alongside all-new characters created by Disney Animation artists and an original score inspired by timeless Disney music. It marks the first ever theatrical collaboration of three creative icons: Cirque du Soleil, Walt Disney Animation Studios and Walt Disney Imagineering.

“This show has been in the works for years and to finally share it with the world is a dream come true,” said Daniel Lamarre, President and CEO of Cirque du Soleil Entertainment Group. “This collaboration has been unlike anything we’ve done before. We hope it will mean as much to our fans as it has to us – it’s not just our show now, it’s theirs too.”

“Seeing a Cirque du Soleil show at Disney Springs has long been a cherished experience for our guests,” said Jeff Vahle, President of Walt Disney World Resort. “Combining the rich legacy of Disney Animation with the incredible artistry of Cirque du Soleil, Drawn to Life is pure magic.”

Drawn to Life, written and directed by Michel Laprise with Fabrice Becker as Director of Creation, is a live acrobatic journey telling the

story of Julie, a determined girl who discovers an unexpected gift left by her Disney animator father: an unfinished animation. As she dives into the inner world of animation guided by a surprising pencil, Julie embarks on an inspiring quest filled with childhood Disney memories. Developed along with Michael Jung, Executive Theatrical Development, Walt Disney Imagineering, the story is driven by 10 unique acrobatic acts alongside animation from beloved Disney films as well as all-new animation created by Disney Animation artists led by Animation Director Eric Goldberg, best known for characters such as the Genie in the animated classic, Aladdin.

Cirque du Soleil acrobatics and characters from classic Disney animation films blend throughout Julie’s journey. Along the way she encounters rhythmic gymnasts interpreting pages of drawings in continuous sequence, a pair of human trapeze artists moving as paintbrushes to create a kaleidoscope of colors, teeterboard artists displaying the squash and stretch principle of animation and beloved Disney Animation characters from across eras.

Years in the making, the show was researched through extensive visits Cirque du Soleil teams made to Disney theme parks, Walt Disney Animation Studios, Walt Disney Animation Research Library, Walt Disney Archives, and The Walt Disney Family Museum in San Francisco. As a result, the show pays homage to classic Disney Animation techniques and many trailblazing Disney Animation artists

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including Mary Blair, Ollie Johnston and Frank Thomas.

The show is an immersive production featuring an all-original score of new music pixie-dusted with playful snippets of melodies from Disney’s classic animated feature

films;

animation

makeup

principles

that

like

reflects

exaggerated

lines, highlights and shadows; largerthan-life costumes and props that are more than meets the eye; and a set that envelops the audience in sketch pages and an animator’s drawing table.

Originally slated for a March 2020 opening,

but

delayed

due

to

the

pandemic, the show opened Nov. 18, 2021 to an electric theater of excited guests. Among

those

in

attendance

were Lamarre, Vahle, Goldberg as well as other top Cirque du Soleil and Walt Disney World executives.

“It means so much to finally be raising the curtain on Drawn to Life,” said Laprise.

“Every step of this journey has been emotional, from researching and viewing original Disney Animation, to writing this beautiful story, to meeting our cast and becoming a family supporting each other through

our

unexpected

‘intermission’

together. I’m overwhelmed at the magic we have the opportunity to create for families.”

Drawn to Life is the 50th production created

by Cirque du Soleil and its premiere coincides with the 50th anniversary of the Walt Disney World Resort. With an international cast of 62 artists, Drawn to Life will perform Tuesday through Saturday at Disney Springs at Walt Disney World Resort.

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Drawn to Life presented by Cirque du Soleil and

book Disney Animation: The Illusion of Life by

Disney Fun Facts:

iconic Disney animators and Disney Legends Ollie Johnston and Frank Thomas.

•

Cast is comprised of 66 artists from 15 countries

○

In the “Dreams of Colors” act, the kaleidoscope

around the globe including Japan, Russia, Togo,

of colors pays homage to the genius of Disney

Colombia and Peru

Animation artist Mary Blair. Tribute is also

•

There are 10 unique acrobatic acts in Drawn to Life

paid to the “Women of Ink and Paint”, unsung

•

The show features many references to the history

heroes whose brushstrokes gave life to early

of Disney Animation, a few of which are:

animation celluloids.

○

The animators who befriend Julie on her

The “Old Mill” act is inspired by Walt Disney’s

journey are Cirque du Soleil’s bow to Walt

groundbreaking 1937 animated short of the

Disney’s Nine Old Men, icons of Disney

same name.

Animation. ○

○

○

The “Squash & Stretch” act was inspired by

Throughout the show there are references to

the rubber band fights Disney Animators were

the 12 principles of animation outlined in the

known to have during their breaks

For more information on show tickets, dates and pricing, visit cirquedusoleil.com/drawntolife.

Content Courtesy of Cirque du Soleil and Walt Disney World Productions Photos Courtesy of Matt Beard © Cirque du Soleil and Walt Disney World Productions