OutClique Magazine May 2019

Volume 3, Issue 6 May 2019

EXPERIENCE

THE DIVINE RANDY ROBERTS STEVE GRAND BEARS OF SOUTH FLORIDA

GAY ADOPTION JULIAN'S REVERSE QUINCEANERA

Florida's LGBTQ Lifestyle Magazine & Destination Guide

Steven O. Evans, PhD

Publisher and Editor in Chief OutClique@gmail.com

Arthur Wood III

Associate Editor Arthur.OutClique@gmail.com

Sach AD Group

Director of Graphic Design

Mike Ritzi

Executive Director of Sales

Arvin Bielen Cindy Curtis Zach Kane JoAnn Marchese Sales Managers

Connie Evans Chief Copyeditor

Tom Pence

Distribution Manager

Chris Brown

Director of Orlando Outreach

Connor Wilkinson Photography

National Advertising Rivendell Media

Senior Lifestyle Writer Denny Patterson

Senior Entertainment Writer Gregg Shapiro

Contributing Writers

Tony Adams, Joey Amato, Andy Armano, Chris Brown, Rod Davis, Mike Jeknavorian, Marty Kiar, Patrick Rogers, Eric Noel Roman A publication of OutClique, LLC (954) 998-6429 www.OutClique.com OutClique@gmail.com Facebook.com/OutClique OutClique, LLC is not responsible for statements or opinions expressed in advertisements or articles.

TABLE OF

CONTENTS Volume 3, Issue 6 | May 2019

Cover Story

134

EXPERIENCE THE DIVINE

134 RANDY ROBERTS

Cover Photo by Barry Fitzgerald

32 Health & Wellness 66 Realtors & Brokers 78 Lodging 85 Spas 96 Events, Shows, and Entertainment 138 Key West

41

113

AWARD WINNING ARTISTS CAME OUT

for Spring Break Walk and Music Festival Raised Over $1.5 Million in the Local Fight Against AIDS

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IDS Healthcare Foundation’s (AHF) 14th Annual Florida AIDS Walk and Music Festival on March 23, 2019 raised over $1.5 million benefitting 10 non-profits that provide HIV/AIDS services in South Florida, the nation’s epicenter for HIV. Multi Grammy award-winning reggae artist Shaggy and the queen of bounce music Big Freedia joined a diverse lineup of performers on Saturday, March 23, 2019 for the 2019 Florida AIDS Walk and Music Festival. Taking place at Fort Lauderdale’s South Beach Park as a part of the spring break festivities, this annual event kicked off with a 5K walk culminating in a day-long music festival increasing the community’s awareness, education, and prevention efforts for HIV/AIDS services throughout South Florida.

Presented by AHF, Saturday’s event attracted over 3,000 attendees from across the region, including Fort Lauderdale Mayor, Dean Trantalis. Supported by an array of corporate partners including AHF Pharmacy, a national chain of pharmacies supporting US & global HIV care, and Wells Fargo, the Florida AIDS Walk raised over $1.5 million dollars in the fight against HIV/AIDS. “Given South Florida’s ranking nationally as the epicenter for HIV, we are pleased to present this annual event that both raises awareness about the HIV epidemic and significant dollars

to support 10 non-profit organizations that are entrenched in the community, working to address this devastating epidemic,” stated Michael Kahane, AHF Southern Bureau Chief.

“We thank all of the amazing performers, corporate partners, team captains, individuals raising funds, and the thousands of attendees for their support.”

Organizations benefiting from the 2019 event included: Aqua Foundation, SAVE, SunServe, Poverello, The Pride Center at Equality Park, Latinos Salud, The World AIDS Museum and Educational Center, Pridelines, and Urban League of Broward County. Other event sponsors included: Cardinal Health, Ameritech Solutions, All In One Electric, Macy’s, TCGRx, Quest Diagnostics, CDW, iHeartMedia, and South Florida Gay News (SFGN).

HIV/AIDS in Florida: According to recent statistics from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC): Florida ranked first among the 50 states in the number of HIV diagnoses Three Florida cities made the top 15 cities nationally when it comes to number of people with HIV. Miami is at the top of the list, with Jacksonville and Orlando at the tenth and 11th spots, respectively Miami-Dade and Broward counties ranked top in the nation of new HIV diagnosis

AHF, the largest non-profit, global HIV/AIDS organization, currently provides medical care and/or services to more than 1,000,000 individuals in 42 countries worldwide in the US, Africa, Latin America, Caribbean, the Asia-Pacific Region, and Eastern Europe. To learn more about AHF, please visit our website: www.AIDSHealth.org, find us on Facebook: www.Facebook.com/AIDSHealth, and follow us on Twitter: @AIDSHealthcare.

08 | OutClique.com

AIDS WALK

For more photos of this event, visit us on Facebook at facebook.com/outclique.

Want to submit photos? | Contact us! OutClique@gmail.com 10 | OutClique.com

CHEF HOWIE AT THE PUB

For more photos of this event, visit us on Facebook at facebook.com/outclique.

Want to submit photos? | Contact us! OutClique@gmail.com 16 | OutClique.com

WHAT MAKES US CLIQUE KEZIA GILYARD

By Andy Armano | www.AndyArmano.com

T

his series focuses on individuals who give to our community and make a positive impact on the lives of others.

Often it is through our personal adversities that we discover who we are and transform the challenges into strength.

Kezia “Kizzy” Gilyard brings their life experience as transgender, non-binary to support the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer, Intersex, Asexual/Ally, and Pansexual (LGBTQIAP) students in Broward county. As an advocate, educator, and mediator, Kizzy has a direct impact on the lives of hundreds of students each year. The impact of Kizzy’s work is felt today and will crescendo in the future as these young students become the next generation of leaders.

AA KG

Tell us a bit about what you do on a day-to-day basis.

I exclusively serve the needs of LGBTQIAP students, staff, and families. I mostly work with transgender students, and I mostly work with students in elementary schools. A large part of what I do is training and answering questions through emails and phone calls, but I do provide support in response to specific incidents. One of the first matters I handled involved an elementary school boy with two moms. One Father’s Day, his art teacher said, "Oh, we're going to make Father's Day cards." This brilliant little boy said, "Well, I don't have a father. I have two moms." The teacher responded to him in front of the whole class, "No, that's not correct.

You have to have a father. Maybe your mom lied to you.” The child went home in tears, confused and full of questions. I worked with the mothers and the student to help resolve the situation. I also implement sensitivity 18 | OutClique.com

Photo by Andy Armano | www.AndyArmano.com

trainings for staff members and board administrators so that the schools themselves work to prevent these things from happening.

AA KG

What are some other challenges to protecting LGBTQIAP students?

We had a student who was in fourth grade who was transitioning. In order to help that student, all the fourth, fifth and sixth graders in that school read the book, “I Am Jazz,” which is about Jazz Jennings who transitioned as a child. There was a parent who got really upset and disruptive and she threatened to sue.

Administrators sometimes drag their feet out of fear of those parents, which puts the kids at risk. The suicide rate is still very high for LGBTQIAP youth. With transgender kids, about 42% of them attempt suicide before their 21st birthday.

AA KG

What have you found challenging about your job?

AA KG

What’s something about your job that surprised you?

Personally, I've had a number of students either die or attempt suicide. It's hard being the only person to support 235 schools. Sometimes, I feel like if I take a sick day I can’t but think, “What's going to happen to this kid in this school?” Holding onto that burden has been really difficult for me mental health wise. So, as much as this job fulfills me, it can be very draining.

I didn't expect the students to be so moved by knowing me - an openly queer person, openly trans person. That was beautifully shocking to me. I try to be as authentic as possible, and I try to be as open as possible, even though sometimes it makes me uncomfortable. I'll talk to the students

about my coming out story. I'll talk to the students about my partner, my top surgery … things that are usually very private. And they're just on the edge of their seats. I didn't expect that to happen.

AA KG

Tell me about an experience that makes it all worth it.

When I attend Gay Student Association (GSA) conferences with students. It's a wonderful feeling to see children feel at home and comfortable being themselves. We frame it as a pride event. So the kids will come with their flags and they'll have on their best pride gear that they can’t wear anywhere else, you know? It's beautiful to see them laughing and smiling.

I once saw a student who is very masculine presenting, but ended up being a transgender girl. She did not have a supportive family, so she could not present as a girl yet. At one conference, I saw her come around the corner, screaming to her friends, "I used the girls bathroom for the first time!" That was just such a beautiful experience and I almost cried.

Photo by Andy Armano | www.AndyArmano.com

OutClique.com | 19

IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION } Severe liver problems, which in rare cases can lead to death. Tell your What is the most important information healthcare provider right away if you ® I should know about BIKTARVY ? get these symptoms: skin or the white BIKTARVY may cause serious side effects: } Worsening of hepatitis B (HBV) infection. If you have both HIV-1 and HBV and stop taking BIKTARVY, your HBV may suddenly get worse. Do not stop taking BIKTARVY without first talking to your healthcare provider, as they will need to monitor your health.

Who should not take BIKTARVY? Do not take BIKTARVY if you take: } dofetilide } rifampin } any other medicines to treat HIV-1

What are the other possible side effects of BIKTARVY? Serious side effects of BIKTARVY may also include: } Changes in your immune system. Your immune system may get stronger and begin to fight infections. 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.

part of your eyes turns yellow, dark “tea-colored” urine, light-colored stools, loss of appetite for several days or longer, nausea, or stomacharea pain.

The most common side effects of BIKTARVY in clinical studies were diarrhea (6%), nausea (5%), and headache (5%). Tell your healthcare provider if you have any side effects that bother you or don’t go away.

What should I tell my healthcare provider before taking BIKTARVY? } All your health problems. Be sure to tell your healthcare provider if you have or have had any kidney or liver problems, including hepatitis virus infection. } All the medicines you take, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, antacids, laxatives, vitamins, and herbal supplements. BIKTARVY and other medicines may affect each other. Keep a list of all your medicines and show it to your healthcare provider and pharmacist, and ask if it is safe to take BIKTARVY with all of your other medicines. } If you 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. } If you are breastfeeding (nursing) or plan to breastfeed. Do not breastfeed.

HIV-1 can be passed to the baby in breast milk.

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.

Ask your healthcare provider if BIKTARVY is right for you.

Please see Important Facts about BIKTARVY, including important warnings, on the following page.

KEEP EMPOWERING.

Because HIV doesn’t change who you are.

What is BIKTARVY? BIKTARVY is a complete, 1-pill, once-a-day prescription medicine used to treat HIV-1 in adults. 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.

BIKTARVY.COM

IMPORTANT FACTS (bik-TAR-vee)

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.

MOST IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT BIKTARVY BIKTARVY may cause serious side effects, including: • Worsening of hepatitis B (HBV) infection. 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.

ABOUT BIKTARVY BIKTARVY is a complete, 1-pill, once-a-day prescription medicine used to treat HIV-1 in adults. 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 all your medical conditions, including if you: • Have or have had any kidney or liver problems, including hepatitis infection.

• Are pregnant or plan to become pregnant.

• Are breastfeeding (nursing) or plan to breastfeed. Do not breastfeed if you have HIV-1 because of the risk of passing HIV-1 to your baby.

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.

• Ask your healthcare provider or pharmacist about medicines that interact with BIKTARVY.

POSSIBLE SIDE EFFECTS OF BIKTARVY BIKTARVY can cause serious side effects, including: • Those in the “Most Important Information About BIKTARVY” section.

• Changes in your immune system.

• New or worse kidney problems, including kidney failure.

• 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 (5%), and headache (5%).

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. 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, LOVE WHAT’S INSIDE, GILEAD, and the GILEAD Logo are trademarks of Gilead Sciences, Inc., or its related companies.

Version date: February 2018 © 2018 Gilead Sciences, Inc. All rights reserved. BVYC0051 06/18

THE BEARS OF SOUTH FLORIDA

By Denny Patterson

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he Bears of South Florida are ready to welcome you with open arms. Not only does this popular social group provide a venue for bears and their admirers to meet up, hang out, attend events, and enjoy each other’s company, but it is also a nonprofit fundraising organization that raises money and donations for local charities and causes.

Founded and incorporated in 2002, the Bears of South Florida also host numerous events and gatherings throughout the calendar year, such as movie nights, pool parties, potlucks, and more. This is the perfect group for friend and camaraderie. I had the pleasure of chatting with the organization’s president, Kevin Daft. The Bears of South Florida have so much to offer, so make sure to check them out!

For those who are not familiar with the Bears of South Florida, what kind of organization is it?

The Bears of South Florida, Inc. (BOSFL) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization. We are a social/charitable group that raises funds through a variety of activities, then donates that money to support other non-profit 24 | OutClique.com

LGBTQ+ organizations in our community.

You are the organization's president. How long have you been with the group, and why did you want to be involved?

I joined BOSFL back in 2015, not long after I moved to the area. My first event was a pool party. My husband and I had friends visiting that weekend from out of town, and we brought them with us. I think we knew two or three people at the party that day, but by the end of the party I felt like we'd met virtually everyone there. It was a very fun, welcoming group of guys, and I knew then I wanted to become active within the club.

How has your life changed since becoming a member?

I have made a lot of new friends and acquaintances within the club, and through our activities, I have become a lot more familiar with the community as well.

Do you believe this group has been very beneficial for the South Florida community?

Absolutely! This is a two-part answer. For our members, we offer an opportunity to

participate in a variety of events ranging from pool parties to theater, bowling, movie nights, excursions to Flamingo Gardens and Miami (via Brightline), a Scare-A-Bear night at Enigma Haunt in October, potlucks, beach days, and more. Whether you are single and looking to meet people and be part of a group, or a couple looking to make new friends and spend time with old friends, the Bears have an event for you.

BOSFL benefits the community by giving back the money we collect through our member events. At our last holiday party in December, we presented grants totaling $10,000 to five local non-profits: the Gay Men's Chorus of South Florida, Island City Stage, the Pride Center at Equality Park, the South Florida Pride Wind Ensemble, and Stonewall Museum & Archives. Over the past decade, BOSFL has given over $100,000 back to the local LGBTQ community. We also partner with the Gay Men's Chorus of South Florida and Hunters Nightclub to promote a teddy bear drive for children hospitalized in the Broward Health system.

What do you hope members ultimately gain by joining?

We hope our members gain a sense of belonging to a group that not only has a lot of fun, but also is engaged with and supports the community.

I know you host movie nights, pool parties, and many other events throughout the year.

Can you tell me about some other events you all orchestrate, and how many people generally attend?

Our most popular events are pool parties.

The parties are generally held at private residences and are attended by 100-150 people depending on the size of the yard and pool. These parties tend to sell out within 24-48 hours. We are only limited by the capacity of the location. Other events are often smaller. We have had up to 75 bowlers

at Manor Lanes, 45 seats at Island City Stage, and between 25 and 50 at other events. The attendees can be very different between events, which really increases the opportunities to meet new people who share a common interest.

Can anyone join and is there a membership fee?

BOSFL is a men's organization for bears, cubs, masculine men, and those who wish to socialize with them. We have a diverse membership in age, ethnicity and interest, and our members come from all over South Florida. We welcome diversity - you don't have to be a bear to join. Membership is free, and registration is easy on our website, BOSFL.org.

What would you say are some of the top reasons as to why one should join the Bears of South Florida?

BOSFL is a very active organization, with multiple events scheduled monthly throughout the year. Attending our functions is a great way to meet nice people outside the bars and try some different activities.

We do not care if you are not buff or if you can't bowl; we even celebrate our bowling low scorers with the highly-coveted "gutter bear" trophy! It's all about having fun together while helping the community.

How would you say the Bears of South Florida have changed and grown since its inception in 2002?

The mission of promoting social interaction between our members and philanthropy hasn't changed. We have grown steadily though, and currently have over 1,600 members.

What do you hope the organization accomplishes within the next year or so?

We asked our members to complete a survey back in November, soliciting feedback and OutClique.com | 25

ideas for future events as well as asking for volunteers to help with events and to take a leadership role in the organization.

The results were terrific. We have already added some new activities based on those responses and we will continue to explore additional ideas. I think getting more members involved in helping with events will only increase the feeling of camaraderie within the club.

Do you think the group is continuously heading towards the right direction?

I think so. We have been voted the Best Social Club in SFGN for three years in a row, and I feel that the club's reputation as a positive and embracing organization has steadily increased. I also hope to increase our giving back to the community each year as the club grows and hosts more events.

How is the Bears of South Florida different from other similar groups?

There are many Bear groups across the country and throughout the world, including others in central and northern Florida. I think it's safe to say that all of them hold regular social functions for their members.

We are a little different from a lot of other Bear groups because of our philanthropy and involvement with the community. I would also like to think we do a pretty good job with the number and scope of events we sponsor.

What's next for the Bears of South Florida?

[At the time of this interview], in April 2019, the Bears will take a trip to Flamingo Gardens in Davie, attending 9 to 5: The Musical at the Broward Center, and meeting for a day at the beach.

In May 2019, we will be singing (or not) at a Bear-aoke event, holding a movie night at Stonewall Museum, and kicking off our pool party season. Check out our event calendar on the BOSFL.org website and on Facebook.

26 | OutClique.com

CLEAN YOUR INSIDES

By Eric Noel Roman

C

hirping birds, fresh foliage, and crisp air - the signs of spring are here. Ducks have hatched out of their eggs. Flowers are beginning to bud. People begin to clean out their homes in the tradition of spring cleaning.

However, there is one area of our lives we neglect regularly. A section that does not require a season or a time of year. Also, the clutter in this area builds without being seen.

Little by little the mountain builds, and you do not see that the sunshine and happiness becomes overshadowed by regret and disdain.

Have you figured it out yet? That is right, the clutter in the spotlight is not a mound of dirty laundry or dirty dishes. This clutter is deeper inside of you.

As you live life, you realize that your choices placed you in the position you are in now. I know that in my life, I have recently looked back at all of the choices I have made while I sat and just glared blankly at a wall, in remorse that where I am is not where I envisioned. I remember sitting as an early teen dreaming of the great things I would accomplish. I would work hard, earn great grades, and enjoy accolades. As a young adult leading to my twenties I was cut throat, I sought out successes in my fields, and would master the skills required. I centered my life around financial gains. I was on top of the world, making money and gaining some local fame. In turn, there was a sacrifice.

My success was spectacular, but led to isolation, hermitting, and depression. As I watched the movie of my life, I began to regret neglecting my emotions. Love, passion, and serenity were left out. I began to hate myself and all I did was sit and look back, to a point that I stopped moving forward. My progress stopped and I was

lost. I focused on my mistakes, not noticing that just a bit of leaving the past would lead to forward momentum. That type of momentum lights the fire to smile and be happy. I stopped looking at my failures as failures. I began to let go of the mentality that everything must be perfect and that work is not the center of life.

Money has become a questionable commodity in my life. However, opening my eyes to the world around me allowed me to look forward. The path in front of me was made by me. It is a path that once you clean out the clutter of regret, you will see that the door in the way of your path was placed by you. Take all of the energy spent on wondering if things could have been different, and let go of the weight holding down free thinking. Enlighten the road ahead with lessons learned, instead of failures perceived. Step forward on the freshly clean pathway, with feelings of accomplishment.

Remember, you have made it this far.

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.

OutClique.com | 27

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TY’S TRAINING TIPS

By Ty Dorce

“You gotta train your mind to be stronger than your emotions or else you’ll lose yourself every time.” A powerful quote that applies to life in and out of the gym. What does it mean? Why is it important? Here’s my understanding.

Our emotions can and will take us on a wild ride if we let them. Training the mind is often more difficult than training our body. We must learn how and when to snap back. Our emotions aren’t really the same day-in-andday-out (especially women’s “hormones!”).

Maybe today you lost your job, you found out your spouse has stage four cancer, or it’s been over a year and you and your dad haven’t reconciled, the ending of a relationship, death, or whatever it is. It could cause an emotional imbalance.

Let’s go back to the quote, “Train your mind to be stronger than your emotions….” Well, if my ultimate goal is to be in the best shape of my life mentally and physically, and if I’m faced with any of the above mentioned emotional challenges, you better believe I’m going to hit the gym as planned! I’m going to eat my prepared meals as planned because that’s my ultimate goal: to remain healthy in all ways.

“I don’t feel like it,” “ughhh, I just got my period, I’m gonna skip today,” “I don’t know, let’s just go to happy hour instead,” “the world has been stressing me out,” … all are distractions based on feelings or emotions that will destroy your ultimate goal. I see it every day and I believe that is why most people never reach their ultimate potential, both on a fitness level and in life.

It is so important that we stay ready, that 32 | OutClique.com

the routines that we choose to live by don’t get interrupted. When we are faced with undesired situations, we won’t be rattled to the core. A continuation of a healthy lifestyle is the ultimate weapon to battle against an emotional warfare. Let’s face it, there will be days that you will be tested as no one is immune to unpleasant situations. If you keep your emotions in check, you will learn that they don’t control you; you control them.

You’re running the show, you’re the director, the producer, and the main star.

I have witnessed people who appeared to be so grounded, but have fallen hard when hit with the challenges of life. You can’t hide the truth from yourself. No one can “fix” you. It’s all on you. The decisions that you make today will affect your tomorrow. Unwanted situations will occur, no doubt. It’s totally up to you to build your character to not crash and burn when they arise.

In closing, issues will always come up that will test your decision making. I look at it as a test. A test that helps you build grit. In this life we’ll have many tests, and once passed, you move on to the next level. For example, your partner breaks up with you, but you still managed to eat your prepared meals and worked out as planned that day. Next time you find yourself in that same position you’ll tell yourself “this sucks, I’m heartbroken, but I’ve been here before, and I’m still going to get done what I planned on doing.” Moving forward, a broken relationship will always hurt, but it won’t shift you or your focus.

Peace: It doesn’t mean to be in a place where there is no noise. It means to be in the midst of those things and still be calm in your heart.

Genesis Health Institute is excited to introduce Halo! Restore the glow that sun, time, and stress have depleted from your skin.

Get that Halo glow!

I

t’s tough out there . . . have you noticed?

You’re competing with a younger crowd these days. If you walk in looking and feeling younger, you’ll regain that competitive edge. With Sciton’s Halo, change the game and get smoother, fresher skin.

What happens during the treatment? You

Over time, your skin can really take a beating due to sun exposure and the aging process. As a result, your face gets sun spots, fine lines, and can lose that healthy look. Previous lasers couldn’t effectively remove this damage, but Halo combines deep dermal revitalization with epidermal renewal.

Can I return to normal activities after treatment? Absolutely. For the first 24 hours

Minimal Downtime

Look great without the wait. Halo’s unique hybrid technology gets the job done without the painful, long recovery times from many other laser treatments.

Comfortable

Halo isn’t harsh like many other treatments. A topical anesthetic is all most patients need to experience very little discomfort.

Get the Halo Advantage

First impressions are critical at work and at play. So, stop worrying about how old you look and do something about it. Halo precisely targets years of skin damage and the visible signs of aging.

What results can I expect? You will see improvements in overall tone and texture in addition to significant removal of discoloration, improvement in the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, reduced pore size, skin reflectivity, and glow.

will feel minimal to no discomfort. We place a topical ointment on your skin to reduce the sensation during treatment. We treat a section of your face at a time by rolling the Halo hand piece in a crisscross pattern.

you should keep your skin protected according to instructions. After that, your skin will begin to peel and are able to go about your normal activities.

When will I see results? You will see initial results between day 2 and 5 after your Halo treatment, but your skin will continue to improve over time. Most patients see the greatest improvement in the first 2 - 3 weeks.

How long will my results last? Your Halo

results can last for years to come, as long as you continue to keep your new healthy skin protected at all times using UV sunscreen.

Genesis Health Institute is South Florida’s “Premiere” full service anti-aging center with 11 years of service in Wilton Manors.

Providing quality healthcare and expertise, we pride ourselves in offering the community a caring, hospitable, and affordable concierge based medical practice. Dr. Cabrera, owner and Medical Director of the Genesis Health Institute, is certified by the American Academy of Anti-Aging Medicine. Our mission is to provide state of the art medical, therapeutic, and aesthetic treatments to optimize not only quantity, but, most importantly, quality of life!

Genesis Health Institute is located at 1001 Northeast 26 Street, Wilton Manors (next to Starbucks at 5-Points) and is open Tuesday through Saturday from 9:00AM - 5:00PM. Please call (954) 561-3175 to schedule a complimentary consultation to discuss their varied therapies and treatments or check out their website at www.GHInstitute.com for additional information.

34 | OutClique.com

HIGH BLOOD PRESSURE AND STROKE

A

pproximately every 40 seconds someone in the United States has a stroke and roughly every four minutes someone dies of a stroke. It causes about one in 20 deaths annually – making it the fifth-leading cause of death – and the primary reason for long-term disability. So if you could take steps now to lower your risk of having a stroke, you would, wouldn’t you?

to 89 mmHg. Blood pressure is considered to be high if systolic pressure is 140 mmHg or higher, or if the diastolic pressure is 90 mmHg or higher, which can also be expressed as 140/90 mmHg.

Well, you can. First on your list would be to control your blood pressure.

Reducing salt in foods

The most important risk factor for stroke is high blood pressure, or hypertension. If left untreated, this condition can damage blood vessels throughout the body, causing them to narrow and clog more easily or weaken them so they could burst resulting in internal bleeding. When blood vessels in the brain become blocked or break and then leak blood into the brain, brain cells begin to die and the brain is not able to function properly.

In addition to stroke, high blood pressure also can cause other forms of brain damage including dementia and memory loss.

Blood pressure is the amount of force exerted by blood against artery walls. It is expressed in two numbers that are measured in millimeters of mercury (mmHg). The first number, or systolic blood pressure, measures the amount of force when the heart beats. The second number, or diastolic blood pressure, measures pressure in the arteries between heartbeats.

Normal blood pressure is less than 120/80 mmHg. Prehypertension may be diagnosed if the systolic pressure is between 120 to 139 mmHg or the diastolic pressure is between 80

Blood pressure can be controlled by making lifestyle changes or taking medication. Some ways to manage blood pressure include:

Eating healthy foods, such as fruits, vegetables, whole-grain foods, low-fat or fatfree dairy products, fish, and low-calorie, lowfat snacks Maintaining a healthy body weight Engaging in physical activity on a regular basis by exercising through walking, swimming, riding a bicycle or dancing Limiting alcohol intake to no more than two alcoholic drinks a day for men and one per day for women Not smoking Taking medications as directed by your physician to lower blood pressure In addition to being the leading cause of stroke, high blood pressure can cause heart failure, coronary artery disease, kidney failure and eye blood vessel damage. It has also been linked to sexual dysfunction, bone loss and trouble sleeping. For questions about high blood pressure and stroke, talk with your doctor.

Our physician referral service can provide a wealth of information about our doctors and help you make an appointment. Find a neuro doctor now 1-833-764-5452 or visit www.FloridaMedCtr.com for more information.

OutClique.com | 39

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A GAY COUPLE’S ROAD TO FATHERHOOD

By Denny Patterson

W

hen Gerald Vargas and his husband Dr. Robert Swinger began their relationship in 2011, they both knew that they wanted to have a family and raise children. In August 2017, their wish came true.

Vargas and Swinger decided to go through the process of surrogacy and In Vitro Fertilization (IVF). They chose IntegraMed Fertility, the largest fertility network in North America, to help. After some mishaps and setbacks, Vargas and Swinger finally found the perfect surrogate who gave birth to a healthy set of twins. Vargas and Swinger named them Keegan Louis and Francesca Lucia. I had the pleasure of chatting more with Vargas about fatherhood and the journey they went through to get there.

Let me start off by asking, why did you decide to choose IntegraMed Fertility to help with this process? Is IntegraMed accommodating the LGBTQ couples?

We did our research and based our choice on reviews and a few friend referrals. Once we set up the appointment, the process began, and the clinic was helping to guide us in every way. I remember when the first few bills were due and thinking that this may become expensive, but in the end, it worked out better than we thought financially. Few couples had presented to the clinic with our situation prior to us. There were a lot of “firsts” and things such as “I guess mark out wife and write in husband” – we just went along with the flow OutClique.com | 41

and everyone made us feel very comfortable.

How long have you and Robert been talking about having children?

We have known from the beginning of our relationship that we both wanted a family and children. Soon after dating, we moved to Chicago together but returned to Florida knowing that it would be easier to raise children near family. My parents live 10 minutes from our home.

How many children would you like to eventually have?

Funny that you ask. We were recently cleaning our garage and began to pack the unused and leftover baby stuff. My husband stopped for a second and asked if we were sure we were not going to need this again. I replied, nope! But our goal was two children and we were blessed with twins and one of each; we are content.

Do you and Robert come from large families?

I come from a fairly large Italian and Venezuelan family, but only have one brother. Rob’s midwestern family consists of two younger brothers, 10 aunts and uncles, and lots of cousins. We are fortunate that our parents are healthy and able to take on active roles in our children’s lives, in addition to having two great-grandmothers to spoil our babies.

If by chance you decide to have another child via surrogacy, will you go back to IntegraMed? Absolutely! Dr. Hoffman and his entire team were a pleasure to work with. They made us feel like family and guided us through the process with a lot of hand holding and guidance. When we started the process, same-sex couple surrogacy with two different genetic makeup (two dads) was rare and not FDA approved. But this did not stop their drive to help us obtain our family.

Instead of surrogacy, have you two considered adoption?

42 | OutClique.com

We have and were certainly open to it; however, we wanted to first give surrogacy a try. After our third unsuccessful attempt, we strongly considered moving forward with adoption and we began reaching out to agencies. Rob kept our motivation for IVF moving forward and pushed for one more try – and we became parents!

What were some of your biggest concerns throughout this process?

It was like diving into an ocean of the unknown.

Not knowing where to start, we decided to make an appointment and discuss our options and the process. We had our first appointment with Dr. Hoffman who referred us to a couple of agencies where we found our egg donor and surrogate. Any concerns that ever arose were quickly resolved by the IVF Florida team. Our only real concern was the “why” factor when an unsuccessful transfer occurred. Aside from IVF, we did run into a problem with our first

surrogate. After her second transfer, and early miscarriage, she was confirmed positive for two STDs. This was heartbreaking and forced us to change both the surrogate, and agency, due to our ethical dilemmas. Ultimately, a positive outcome for a gray time in the process.

What were your reactions when you first laid eyes on Keegan and Francesca?

I was mute and Rob was recording the entire baby delivery process. I could not believe what we were just about to get into. Our love for them was instantly sparked and they have been our greatest joy.

Was your surrogate someone you personally knew?

It was not, but our relationship clicked instantly. It was as if we had known her forever.

We had the blessing of bonding throughout the pregnancy by attending all her weekly

and monthly appointments; in addition to many lunches and dinners. Our parents met her at our baby shower and shared time together during the pregnancy and hospital recovery. We truly felt like a family. We have since maintained a relationship with our surrogate. She provided breast milk for the babies for the first three months, stays in contact via social media, and attended their first birthday party.

What have been some of the rewards and challenges of being new fathers?

The challenges of the unknown and learning how to juggle multiple tasks at the same time has been our number one learning experience. Until the birth of our children, we were fairly free spirited and did not plan much in advance, but the kids are teaching us the importance of this. As business owners, and Rob being a successful Veterinary Ophthalmologist, our days can be very long. We have modified our work/life balance plan and do our best to spend as much time as we can at home with our little munchkins! We are also blessed to have wonderful grandparents that are available when we need them. Our biggest reward is seeing them grow and change day by day; the way they learn and have fun.

What are some of the number one lessons you both would like to teach your children?

We were both raised in the era of respecting others, spending time with family and friends, and working hard for what you want. Our focus will be to maintain these traditions.

Is there anything else you would like to add to this piece that I may not have asked or covered?

We are not going to sugar coat this process.

It is not an easy or inexpensive process, but at the end of the day, it is all worth it. No regrets!

OutClique.com | 43

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REAL DIAMONDS ARE A GIRL’S BEST FRIEND Rod Davis CEO BBB serving Southeast Florida and the Caribbean

W

hen shopping for precious metals or stones, don’t be blinded by the excitement of the moment or shimmer of a stone. Whether it is a wedding ring or a gift for yourself, precious metals and stones are also a major investment.

marketers detailed information about how to make non-deceptive claims about their products – including jewelry made with mined, laboratory-created, and simulated diamonds.

The Federal Trade Commission recently sent warning letters to 8 businesses for failing to advertise honestly. The FTC stated that “What matters to consumers – and the FTC – is that companies accurately describe what they’re selling. In addition to mined diamonds, consumers can choose simulated diamonds or diamonds created in a laboratory.”

It is unfair or deceptive to use the word “ruby,” “sapphire,” “emerald,” “topaz,” or the name of any other precious or semi-precious stone, or the word “stone,” “birthstone,” “gem,” “gemstone,” or similar term to describe a laboratory-grown, laboratory-created, [manufacturer name]-created, synthetic, imitation, or simulated stone, unless such word or name is immediately preceded with equal conspicuousness by the word “laboratory-grown,” “laboratory-created,” “[manufacturer name]-created,” or some other

In July 2018, the FTC issued its updated “Guides for the Jewelry, Precious Metals, and Pewter Industries.” The Jewelry Guides give

For us as consumers what it means is that:

OutClique.com | 53

word or phrase of like meaning, or by the word “imitation” or “simulated,” so as to disclose clearly the nature of the product and the fact it is not a mined gemstone.

The FTC also cited advertising in social media that failed to provide clarity to consumers.

The FTC uses a standard that all essential terms and conditions should be clear and conspicuous. When essential information is in small print or not close in proximity to the primary ad terms, consumers may not see it and, as a result, make a purchase without knowing all key information. Social media is opening new ways for businesses to interact with potential customers. There are many innovative and fun ad campaigns on social media, but the same disclosure requirements apply to advertising no matter which format is used.

So, what are you as a consumer supposed to do? The good news is that most reputable jewelers and sellers of precious metals play by the rules. As always, do your due diligence to check out the reputation of the business.

Check them out on BBB.org and other sites.

Being a BBB Accredited jeweler and/or being a member of one of the leading association groups (e.g. Jewelers of America, etc.) demonstrates a commitment to standards.

BBB Accredited Businesses commit to abide by the BBB Code of Business Practices. The BBB Code includes a requirement to honestly and clearly convey all relevant information.

The industry associations establish standards to reinforce best practices within that industry. Most notably in this instance, the Jewelers of America members commit that they will:fully and accurately disclose the material characteristics of the products and

merchandise we sell.

If you are making a significant purchase, you may also want to have the product certified by the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) or by another reputable body. Precious metals can also be tested, and it is wise to have an evaluation completed by an independent expert before closing the deal on any major purchase.

At your BBB we are routinely evaluating advertising and working with businesses to improve the quality and fairness of information about products and services.

BBB Accredited Businesses agree to work with BBB to resolve any issues.

If a business fails to live up to BBB Standards, their BBB Accreditation is revoked and their online profile with BBB shares information with consumers about that issue so they are able to evaluate whether the business is reputable in their eyes. BBB also monitors the advertising for businesses not accredited by BBB. If a business were to use advertising that hides key facts or details from consumers, and they failed to correct the advertising after notice from BBB, their report would also document the issue to inform potential consumers.

You play a key role in helping BBB promote truthful advertising. If you see an ad that appears deceptive, or if a business is not disclosing important terms in a clear manner, you can share that information with BBB. You can visit the BBB website to learn more about truthful advertising and report concerns: bbb.org/ad-truth/.

OutClique.com | 55

FORT LAUDERDALE’S SUNSHINE CATHEDRAL

By Denny Patterson

T

he Sunshine Cathedral, located at 1480 SW Ninth Ave, is a different kind of church where the past is the past, and the future has infinite possibilities. The Cathedral’s sole mission is to rescue religion from irrelevance, practice positive thinking, be justice workers, build community, value diversity, and help people experience peace, hope, and joy in their lives. Rooted in the Christian tradition and the Gay Rights Movement, the Sunshine Cathedral is an inclusive church for all kinds of people. There is no need to feel afraid or judged.

Sunshine Cathedral will welcome you with open arms.

Senior Minister, Rev. Dr. Durrell Watkins was ordained in 1997 and served as a student pastor for four years before being ordained. He says that he is on a lifelong spiritual quest, and the last 13 years of that quest has been right within the walls of Sunshine Cathedral.

I had the pleasure of chatting more with him about the Sunshine Cathedral, why people should join, and how religion and churches have been evolving in terms of catering to the LGBTQ community.

Let me start off by asking, why did you choose this profession?

This is the sort of profession that chooses you. In my case, I was always a religious person, and I knew that religion would always be a primary part of my life, but that is just the beginning. Ministry is a lifetime commitment, a lifetime of ongoing education, and a lot of hard work. If one feels called to it, pursues it, sees the fruit of the labor, is energized by the work (even in the hard times), and continues to offer the work as service to the God of one’s understanding and to the community of faith, then one knows that ministry was the work she or he was meant to do.

Does Sunshine Cathedral belong to a certain/

specific type of religion? Catholicism, Presbyterian, etc.?

Sunshine Cathedral is ecumenical. We have a historic relationship with Metropolitan Community Churches (MCC), but we are also a member church of the International Council of Community Churches (ICCC), through which we have representation on World and National Church Councils, and we hold membership in the Divine Science Federation. Our parishioners are mostly Christian, but we also have Jewish, Muslim, and even Agnostic members. Our clergy come from Episcopal, Baptist, Presbyterian, Pentecostal, and Roman Catholic backgrounds.

We tend to think of ourselves as postdenominational and trans-denominational.

And the majority of your parishioners are people from the LGBTQ community?

About 90% of our congregants identify as LGBTQ. Why did you want to be involved with Sunshine Cathedral?

Sunshine Cathedral is a progressive, vibrant community situated in Paradise. It had a solid foundation and unlimited possibilities for future outreach and good work. In the last 43 of Sunshine Cathedral’s almost 48-year OutClique.com | 57

history, there have only been three senior pastors. John Gill (eight years), Grant Ford (22 years), and myself (13 years so far). Its history of long serving senior ministers says something positive about Sunshine Cathedral.

My two immediate predecessors were both people I admired. It was an honor to follow them.

on their search. I also believe that when religion gives up guilt and shame and focuses more on hope and love and compassion, that more people will find religion useful again. At Sunshine Cathedral, we try to practice guiltfree religion. Spirituality should be joyous and empowering, never onerous or scary.

What kind of impact has Sunshine Cathedral made not only on the LGBTQ community, but the South Florida community overall?

That is for the people who have been served to determine. We have become a major arts venue, and we have developed food sharing programs by helping people get their nutritional needs met. Our campus is home to dozens of organizations: 12 step groups, the Gay Men’s Chorus of South Florida, the Metaphysical Chapel of South Florida, the McArtor Senior Center, and some SunServe programs. Our worship services are “progressive, positive, and practical” which can appeal to people of all orientations. Our facilities are used for weddings, funerals, and even preschool graduation events. We offer pastoral care, like visits, prayer, referrals, etc. to hundreds of people each year. We collaborate with other faith and service organizations like SunServe, BOLD Justice, The Global Justice Institute, etc, and we have satellite worship and support services at Rehab and Assisted Living facilities.

So, we make real efforts to bless people of all walks of life. Again, to what degree we have succeeded is for others to decide, but our efforts are sincere and continuous.

Why do you think many churches and religions specifically target the LGBTQ community with hate and discrimination?

Misogyny has something to do with it.

Attitudes about gender roles play a huge part in homophobia. Beyond that, people who do not feel good about themselves will seek a group to look down on. Jesus, quoting the Torah, said, “Love your neighbor as yourself.”

The truth is, that is what we are always doing. We are always loving others as much, or as little, as we love ourselves. People who have been taught to hate themselves need someone else to hate more. Queer people are one of the targets. Jews, Catholics, Muslims, strong women, racial and ethnic minorities, immigrants, people with disabilities and others have also been targets. Until we love ourselves, hate will always be a problem.

What is your opinion on the facts that many people are turning away from churches and religion?

As you say, it is a fact that many people are searching beyond church and synagogue, mosque and meeting house for spiritual fulfillment. I believe that people who are honestly seeking will find something wonderful

Although many churches and religions discriminate against the LGBTQ community, do you think there are many that are also becoming more accepting?

Definitely. There are more affirming congregations and denominations and more vocal LGBTQ advocates in mainline pulpits than ever before. Queer people are both students and faculty members at many seminaries.

There is still a lot of hate and misinformation and fear in the world, but there has been a lot of progress, too.

For more on this article, go to www.OutClique.com

For more information about Sunshine Cathedral, visit www.SunshineCathedral.net, call (954) 462-2004, or connect with them on Facebook and Instagram.

Worship services are on Sundays at 9:00AM and 10:30AM. OutClique.com | 59

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REPORT HOMESTEAD EXEMPTION FRAUD

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t is important homeowners only pay their fair share of property taxes. Property owners who file false applications to obtain a Homestead Exemption are causing you to pay more in property taxes each year.

Why? Because your various taxing authorities, such as the county, city, and school board, must equitably divide the tax burden among all property owners within their jurisdictions in order to provide services such as police, fire, and schools. If someone wrongfully claims Homestead Exemption, someone else must pay more to make up the difference.

In an effort to protect taxpayer dollars, our office is always working to identify homeowners in Broward who are fraudulently claiming a Homestead Exemption on their properties. We work with local governments, homeowner, and civic associations to help identify exemption fraud. We also rely on anonymous phone and mail tips about potential Homestead fraud.

If you know of anyone claiming Homestead

Exemption on a property which is not their permanent residence, we urge you to contact our Department of Professional Standards and Compliance at (954) 357-6900 or www.BCPA. net/DraudForm.asp and we’ll check it out. You are free to provide your contact information or remain completely anonymous when reporting potentially fraudulent activity to our office.

Property owners who fraudulently obtain a Homestead Exemption may be back taxed for as many as ten years, plus be required to pay substantial penalty and annual interest (50% of the unpaid taxes for each year and pay interest at a rate of 15% per year).

If my office can ever be of assistance to you, please do not hesitate to contact me directly at (954) 357-6904 or by email at MartyKiar@BCPA.net.

Take care, Marty Kiar, CFA

Marty Kiar is the Broward County Property Appraiser and longtime advocate for LGBTQ equality.

The Broward County Property Appraiser’s Office is located at 115 S Andrews Avenue, Room # 111, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33301 Follow our office at: facebook.com/MartyKiarBCPA and twitter.com/MartyKiarBCPA OutClique.com | 71

SEATTLE, WA

A NEW COAST TO EXPLORE AND A STAY AT COAST GATEWAY HOTEL

By Steven O. Evans, PhD

W

e are blessed to live on the beautiful beaches and coast of South Florida.

But, the coasts of Seattle, WA boast a different kind of vacation experience. More than just the backdrop of the beloved series TV show, Frazier, Seattle offers travelers the iconic Space Needle, Pike Place Market (as mentioned in the book, Fish!: A Remarkable Way to Boost Morale and Improve Results), the Museum of Pop Culture, the Woodland Park Zoo, Bill Speidel's Underground Tour, and yes, even the Gum Wall. Local gay stops include R Place Bar & Grill, Re-Bar, Tuck Seattle, and Steamworks Seattle. And be sure not to miss Seattle’s gay pride, typically around the last week in June.

When you book your trip, consider a stay at the Coast Gateway Hotel. Located less than a mile away from the Sea-Tac International Airport, this pet-friendly hotel (take the dachshund with you) offers a number of amenities including a flight check-in system, overnight parking, complimentary shuttle service to the airport’s Link Light Rail Station, and access to the hotel’s business center (so you can catch

78 | OutClique.com

up on all the “work” when you’re away), fitness center (so you don’t get behind on your workouts), and laundry services (just in case you only packed one pair of socks) The hotel also offers on-site dining at Sharp’s RoastHouse, where guests can enjoy a wide variety of menu items. There’s also exceptional drinks, including over 500 spirits and 26 draft beers from which to choose.

Recently, one of the OutClique staff traveled to Seattle and stayed on property. I chatted with him, who gave only excellent reviews about the hotel and its staff. He was very impressed with how attentive and friendly each of the members were, even not knowing he was a member of the press. Our OutClique guy also had the pleasure of dining at Sharp’s.

Comparable to any fine dining choices, the Roasthouse proved to be a great choice for his trip.

So, plan a getaway to Seattle. See the “other” coast and experience all that this seaport city has to offer.

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MORE POEMS ABOUT BUILDINGS AND FOOD GREGG SHAPIRO’S NEW BOOK, TOUR, AND INFAMOUS INTERVIEWS

By Steven O. Evans, PhD

W

hen I first started the magazine, Gregg came to me to talk about writing. We met at the 5-Points Starbucks. Gregg told me about his interviews, writing, and articles. I knew from our first chat that he needed to be part of the OutClique team. Since then, Gregg has worked to provide numerous pieces for the magazine. Some of his interviews have included Megan Mullally, The Indigo Girls, Kathy Najimy, Faith Prince, Randy Rainbow, Sharon Gless, and Sandra Bernhard, just to name a few. Gregg continues to be an excellent source of “who’s who” in the LGBTQ+ entertainment world.

But, Gregg also writes his own, original works.

He is currently debuting his new book, More Poems About Buildings and Food. In our fastpaced world of technology, information, and communication, sitting for awhile with just a book of poetry to reflect on life was an amazing treat. Gregg takes you on a thoughtful journey of life with some as simple, yet complex, as food, interspersed with everyday items and people that we encounter.

Get your copy at www.SpoonBooks.com.

Steven O. Evans, PhD: You are known for your celebrity interviews. What inspires you to write poetry?

Gregg Shapiro: I was writing poetry long before I became an entertainment journalist. For me, writing, in any format, is the greatest form of expression. I was fortunate, as an undergrad at Emerson College in Boston, to begin having 80 | OutClique.com

my poetry published in literary journals.

I’m grateful that continues to this day, in magazines, anthologies and textbooks, as well.

SOE GS

Is there one of the books that is most meaningful for you and why?

SOE

What do you want your readers to take away from your poetry?

I feel like a parent who is being asked to pick a favorite child [laughs]. I love all of my books – Protection (Gival Press, 2008), GREGG SHAPIRO:77 (Souvenir Spoon Books, 2012), Lincoln Avenue (Squares and Rebels, 2014), How to Whistle (Lethe Press, 2016), More Poems About Buildings and Food (Souvenir Spoon Books, 2019) and Sunshine State (NightBallet Press, 2019) equally, and with the exception of one publisher, I have the utmost respect and gratitude to the kind and generous people who have published my books.

GS

I want them to laugh in the right places. I want them to have an emotional response. That’s what good writing means to me – to be able to elicit a response from the reader, whether it’s based on shared experiences or discovering something new about themselves.

SOE GS

What’s your biggest challenge in writing poetry?

For the longest time, the biggest challenge was understanding the necessity for revision. Many years ago, when I first started publishing my work, I had the unexpected experience of having several first drafts of poems published. Now, when I look back at some of those early publications, I think about how much better the piece would have been with some editing and revision.

Revision has now become as important to me as the act of creating itself. In fact, in recent years, unpublished poems that have been revised numerous times are finally finding homes in journals and anthologies.

Additionally, I have been returning to published poems and expanding them into short stories.

SOE and why?

Who have been some of your favorite celebrities to interview,

GS

Again, it wouldn’t be fair to pick favorites because one of the things I enjoy most about my work is that I establish a rapport with interview subjects and that often leads to being able to interview them again and again over time. However, I will say that my favorite celebrities to interview are the ones who don’t give stock or rehearsed answers to my questions.

SOE

You interview a lot of big names in show business. Do you ever

82 | OutClique.com

get nervous talking to them?

GS

When I first started doing celebrity interviews, I would get nervous, almost to the point of hyperventilating. Now that I’ve been doing this kind of work for as long as I have, it takes a lot to make me nervous. Living in Fort Lauderdale, as opposed to Chicago, I don’t get to do as many in-person interviews as I used to. Depending on the person, face-to-face interviews could be a cause for nerves.

SOE GS

How do you interviews?

prepare

for

Prep varies from interview to interview. But the basic rules are review the source material; listen to the music, watch the movie, read the book, watch the TV show, see the play (or a rehearsal of the play). Be more prepared than you think is necessary. Come up with more questions than you need. Make the interview subject laugh, when possible. It should be an enjoyable experience, not torture.

SOE

How do you decide what poems go in the book and which go on the cutting room floor?

GS

That’s an especially good question as I am now in the process of putting together a manuscript for what will be my eighth book. For Protection, GREGG SHAPIRO: 77, More Poems About Buildings and Food, and Sunshine State, the procedure was easy as each of the books has a sort of theme. Fifty Degrees doesn’t have a theme, but the poems chosen for it fit together perfectly. The new manuscript, tentatively titled The Family Bed, adheres closer to a theme than not. Of course, that could always change, as revision not only applies to the poems themselves, but also to assembling poems for a book.

J. COHEN’S DAY SPA

A NEW SPA, A NEW LOOK, AND A NEW VENUE

By Steven O. Evans, PhD

R

eady for an afternoon of relaxation?

Need some rejuvenation? Whether you are a local or visiting South Florida, J. Cohen’s Day Spa offers a wide array of services to pamper yourself for that “just right” time for yourself. As the owner, Jimmy takes great pride in his business and sees to the ultimate client experience.

We sat down to speak with Jimmy Cohen, owner of J. Cohen’s Day Spa, and Mario Martinez, one of their beloved massage therapists. Licensed

by Florida College of National Health, Jimmy is a paramedical aesthetician who specializes in anti-aging facials, microneedling, chemical peel, body peel, full body waxing and shaving, nail care, and body exfoliation. Jimmy is joined by master massage therapists, Mario Martinez and Iñigo Valencia.

Steven O. Evans, PhD: What inspired you to start J. Cohen’s Day Spa? Jimmy Cohen: As a paramedical esthetician, I have always been fascinated by skincare, so I wanted to offer quality services that aren’t readily available to men today. With such a major market geared towards women, it has always been my dream to have my own spa with the best products creating a space to relax for men.

SOE JC

What sets your spa apart from the others?

Quality! I always put the client first and I always have an interest in watching visible improvement for someone who has issues with their skin. I always go

above and beyond to ensure the client is satisfied, as well as sharing my knowledge for so many that are lost or confused with products and services on the market today. Not only do I provide the best treatments possible, but I also offer rewards and discounts for my most loyal clients.

SOE JC

Jimmy, how did you get in the cosmetology field?

SOE JC

What are your day spa areas of speciality?

SOE

Why should everyone get a massage?

Since I was a kid, I always cared about my skin and I loved to moisturize [laughs], I would do my mom, dad, and my aunt’s nails. I was always playing with hair and I’ve been shaving my unibrow since 7th grade!

Later it just seemed natural to move onto it as a career.

Deep tissue massage, bamboo, hot stone, reflexology, body exfoliation and wraps, chakra balance, and infrared therapy.

Mario Martinez: I believe massage improves circulation, your nervous system, controls your anxiety, and relaxes your muscles.

JC

You took the words out of my mouth (laughs). Mario is amazing and I encourage everyone to book their next massage with Mario and all the rest of the team at the day spa.

Make an appointment to visit Jimmy, Mario, and the rest of their team by calling (754) 206-4687, visiting them at 3045 North Federal Highway, Suite 42, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33306, or on their website at www.JimmyCohensDaySpa.com.

OutClique.com | 89

J. COHEN'S DAY SPA

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MY BIG FUNNY - VENT & CHESTER™

By Steven O. Evans, PhD

Photo by Randy Addison

P

eter Bisuito is best known for his stand up act, “My Big, Funny Peter.” Sure, he’s the loveable bear we all see on stage and around Wilton Manors. Peter always has a smile and a hug. But recently, Peter has embarked on a new adventure - producing and starring in his own, and sparkinkly, YouTube web series, “Vent and Chester™.”

But wait, there’s more. Peter has paired up with Jeff Roberson, AKA Varla Jean Merman, to create this online dynamic duo. The characters are an unlikely pair of gay guys living together in Fort Lauderdale. An almost modern GAY, “Laverne and Shirley.” I talked with Peter and Varla Jean about this hot new show about to hit the digital world.

Steven O. Evans, PhD: How did you come up with the concept for the show?

Peter Bisuito: It’s been a childhood “pipe dream” of mine to be the star of my own sitcom. A 92 | OutClique.com

dream that most likely would never come true.

However two years ago I figured with today's technology I can make it happen for myself and not wait for Hollywood to knock on my door. So I developed a show based around two characters, both with similar looks, but opposite lives. Although these characters are completely different, they do find themselves with the exact same life situation that is pretty much the glue that keeps them as suitable roommates. What’s that situation?

You’ll have to watch and find out. The show will be based in Fort Lauderdale making it the first sitcom in history to take place here.

Steven O. Evans, PhD: Tell us about your characters on the show.

Peter Bisuito: My character is a middleaged Muscle Bear. I’m an out ’n proud, freespirited, seasoned homosexual that works as a bartender. I don’t like affection, kids, or animals but I do like sex and sarcasm!

Jeff Roberson: I play Chester, who is a very conservative gay man in his late forties.

Chester was married to a woman until recently and has no idea how to navigate through the gay capital of Fort Lauderdale.

SOE PB

Is this going to be a comedy, drama, or what’s the genre?

This will be a comedy however there will be endearing moments. One minute you’ll find yourself laughing and the next you’ll be saying, “awwwww.” Our genre is obviously the gay community however we’re trying to keep it mainstream so that everybody will enjoy it; not just the gay community. Sort of like an R-rated, Will and Grace.

JR

Dear God, I hope it's funny! It's definitely a comedy, but deals with gay men trying to age in a youth-obsessed world, so I guess it's also a tragedy. Kidding!

SOE

characters?

Fort Lauderdale is super gay. How will this work with the plots and

PB

Well since the show will be a web series on YouTube, it’ll be seen all over the world and not just in Fort Lauderdale. However, the show does take place in Fort Lauderdale which is perfect for my character (Vent) since he’s been living here most of his life. It’ll be a culture shock for Chester since he recently came out of the closet and moved to Fort Lauderdale from a small suburb in California.

JR

Honestly, I will probably need more makeup than I wear as Varla just to make me look like a man. I have wanted to do something out of drag for a long time, so this is a perfect project. And, I don't have to put on my fake self! I do Crossfit and yet putting on my character is more exhausting than any Crossfit I have ever done, so this is going to be like a vacation!

SOE PB

What are some big plans you have you can tell us about?

We are planning on taking over the world. But first, we’re planning a Hollywood style premiere party on Saturday, June 8, 2019 at the Sunshine Cathedral. It will be an entire evening of entertainment.

There will be a performance from Varla Jean Merman and a comedy segment from myself, followed by the premiere episode showing of Vent and Chester™. The evening will end with a short question and answer session from the audience. You can get your tickets at www.MyBigFunnyPeter.com/vent-and-chester.

JR

Hopefully, I won't have any plans other than writing a full season of Vent and Chester™. That is the biggest and best plan I can think of.

Peter's character, Vent, has basically done everything you can do as a gay man, so Fort Lauderdale is the perfect place to be his playground. And because Chester doesn't have any experience being gay, Fort Lauderdale is a perfect place to be thrown to the wolves.

SOE

Jeff, are you excited to be performing out of drag?

Photo by Ovi Gutierrez

JR

Check OUT the episode screening, June 8, 2019, Sunshine Cathedral, 8:00PM. Tickets at www.MyBigFunnyPeter.com/vent-and-chester. Use code “outclique2019” for a discount!

OutClique.com | 93

CHECK OUT THESE EVENTS!

WHERE TO BE AND WHAT TO DO IN LGBTQ SOUTH FLORIDA May 2019

Pub Voice

Apr22-Jun5

The Pub

Tri-County Biennial Art Exhibit - Broward Art Guild

Apr22-May17

ArtServe - JM Family Enterprises Gallery

Cocksucker: A Love Story

Apr25-May19

Wilton Theater Factory

Florida Grand Opera - Werther

Apr27-May5

Adrienne Arsht Center

South Florida Fringe Festival

2-5

Sharde Ross Benefit

3

Savannah Bus Tour by Rainbow Travel Services

6-10

Dance Theatre of Harlem

8

Florida Grand Opera - Werther

9-11

Hagen Park & Richardson Park The Pub Savannah, Jekyll Island, & Charleston

Kravis Center Broward Center for the Performing Arts

Turnabout, starring The Nighthawks

10

The Pub

Caribbean Pride Fest

11

--------------------------

ACOF's 2nd Saturday BINGO

11

The Pride Center at Equality Park

Kinky Boots

16

Kravis Center

16-19

DMC of Miami

Cuba Pride Cruise Benefit for Jake Ryan

17

The Pub

The Grand Resort & Spa 20th Year Anniversary Party

17

The Grand Resort & Spa

Nova Singers - Puttin' on the Ritz

17

Taft St Baptist Church Pembroke Pines

Sierra Boggess and Ramin Karimloo

18

Parker Playhouse

Conni Gordon Creativity Matters Symposium Series (A Sense of Pride)

18

NSU Art Museum

Synergy Twins

19

The Pub

Marlin Beach 2.0 Tea Dance

19

Sanctuary Church

Visual Activists & New Identities

19

NSU Art Museum

Cruel Intentions: The '90s Musical

19

Coral Springs Center for the Arts

Nova Singers - Puttin' on the Ritz

19

Cathedral of Saint Mary - Miami

Want to get listed? Contact us!

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OutClique@gmail.com | 954-998-6429

May 2019 Nova Singers - Puttin' on the Ritz

21

Thoroughly Modern Millie

May24-Jun16

St Mark's Episcopal Fort Lauderdale Stage Door Theatre

Liz Ferrer & Bow Ty Enterprises Venture Capital (A Sense of Pride)

28

NSU Art Museum

Venetian Arts Society's - Steven LaBrie & Roberto Berrocal

28

NSU Art Museum

May31-Jun30

NSU Art Museum

Veronica's Position

June 2019 World Pride

June

New York City

Key West Pride

5-9

Key West

Steve Grand in Concert

6

Israel, Jordan, & Tel Aviv Pride

7-16

Insights into African American & Black Caribbean LGBTQ Historical & Social Communities Men Having Babies Conference Amazing Israel Trip & Tel Aviv Pride 2019 Wilton Manors Stonewall Pride Parade and Festival Priscilla Queen of the Desert

Source Events

8

NSU Art Museum

8-9

DoubleTree Suites

11-25

Freedom Travel

15

Wilton Manors

13-30

MODS Pride Day

Key West Theater

22

Broward Center for the Performing Arts

Museum of Discovery & Science

25-30

Broward Center for the Performing Arts

18-21

Palm Springs, CA

A Voyage Around Iceland

13-20

Source Events

Tropical Heat

14-18

Key West

Greek Isles Odyssey Cruise

24-31

Source Events

Aug31-Sep4

Source Events

The Lightening Thief

July 2019 A Celebration of Friends - Palm Springs Lusty Luau

August 2019

Magic of Cappadocia & Istanbul

Want to get listed? Contact us!

OutClique@gmail.com | 954-998-6429 OutClique.com | 95

AN UNEXPECTED LOVE STORY

N

ow that the title of the show alone has your attention, let’s talk about the play itself. Are you ready for a night of drama, comedy, sex, romance, satire, tragedy, and a look at the dating life? Then sit back, relax, and enjoy a night at the Wilton Theatre Factory with a couple of muscled “straight” Marines. Ronnie Larsen Presents brings this night of entertainment to Wilton Manors that explores sexual identity in a way that will not only make you laugh, but think more about how we might compromise our views and roles to just make life “happen.” OutClique talked to Ronnie Larsen about his upcoming production.

Cocksucker: A Love Story is presented April 26 - May 19, 2019. Get tickets and more information at www.RonnieLarsen.com or by calling (954) 826-8790.

OutClique Magazine: The title is attention grabbing! Tell us more about the show.

Ronnie Larsen: First, the title is really not a gimmick! The story tells the challenges of a man who loves to be with straight men and how he goes about finding that until he meets someone who makes him feel something more. The story is not about gay or bi or even straight men - it gets to what makes someone attractive to us and blows labels sky-high.

OCQ RL

What about the “straight” roles of the main characters?

Most of the characters identify as straight, but the play refuses to follow the idea that having gay sex makes you gay.

If you are with another male sexually, are you automatically made gay because the gender of the other person is male? Isn’t sexual identification more a mental state that the

individual claims than a set of rules? Can you self-identify as straight and still have sex with a person who displays as female, but is very obviously born male? Does it matter?

OCQ how so?

Is the show really a mix of drama, comedy, sex, and tragedy? And

RL

The show is hilarious as it pokes fun at a mix of all things sexual because sex is so varied and intriguing. As sex turns into love, things always get complicated, with a mix of drama, tragedy, and comedy competing with the physical fun of sex.

OCQ RL

What’s your favorite part of the show?

OCQ RL

How have previous audiences reacted to the show?

The scenes in the adult theater where there is no dialogue and the story is told in actions. It is the essence of theater, seeing the actions on stage and seeing the story unfold by what the actors are doing, not saying. There is an epiphany during one scene that is better when told in nonverbal actions - it makes theater fun to do something like that.

Audiences have loved the show! That is why it is returning to the main stage!

The characters are so memorable. Truckstop Sally is still talked about years after the play debuted and people want to know what is happening with her now as she is such a compelling character. Maybe I’ll have to write another play about her to let everyone know what she is up to today.

Don’t miss this unique show! Get your tickets at www.RonnieLarsen.com or by calling (954) 826-8790.

96 | OutClique.com

GAY POLO

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NSU ART MUSEUM FORT LAUDERDALE A SENSE OF PRIDE

A

s a lead-up to June 2019 Pride month and the 50th Anniversary of Stonewall, NSU Art Museum Fort Lauderdale will present A Sense of Pride: Visual Activists and New Identities, a one-day symposium exploring issues within the LGBTQ+ art community. The symposium is open to the public with free admission and will include panel discussions, workshops, and art performances with national and local artists, curators, and activists. It will take place Saturday, May 18, 2019 from 11AM – 5PM at the NSU Art Museum Fort Lauderdale (One East Las Olas Blvd., Fort Lauderdale, FL 33301).

Speakers include artists Roberto Juarez; Kia LaBeija; Naima Green; Roberto Navarrete; GeoVanna Gonzalez; Najja Moon; Alex Fiahlo, Program Director of Visual AIDS (NY); and Requel Lopes, Director of the World AIDS Museum and Education Center (Wilton Manors, FL).

Performances will be by artists Rosemarie Romero, Roberto Navarrete, and the Fort Lauderdale Gay Men’s Chorus.

For reservations, call (954) 262-0258 or email MOAReservations@moafl.org.

Symposium events and biographies of participants can be found at www.NSUArtMuseum.org.

The symposium is made possible by support from the Community Foundation of Broward.

It is a signature event of NSU Art Museum Fort Lauderdale’s A Sense of Pride initiative, which connects the LGBTQ+ community through programs and workshops that foster inclusion, acceptance, and understanding.

It is also part of the Museum’s Conni Gordon Education Series, made possible with

philanthropic support from the late innovator in art education and creativity, Conni Gordon.

Symposium Schedule 11AM - 1PM – Visual Activists: American Art and the AIDS Crisis Roberto Juarez, Kia LaBeija, Alex Fiahlo, and Dr. Requel Lopes.

Panel discussion focusing on the role of LGBTQ+ art in America’s HIV/AIDS crisis from the 1980s to the present, and how it has promoted critical awareness through visual activism.

1PM – 3 PM Rosemarie Romero: Porn Nail$ Salon, an interactive Miami-based installation and performance project that functions as a mobile queer-feminist nail salon.

Roberto Navarrete: a ritualistic healing practice that reflects the physical, emotional, and spiritual scarring caused by global intolerance towards the LGBTQ community.

The Fort Lauderdale Gay Men’s Chorus.

3PM - 5 PM - New Identities: Queer Black and Latin-X Artists in America Naima Green, Roberto Navarrete, GeoVanna Gonzalez and Najja Moon.

Panel discussion with artists who identify as queer individuals of color in America. Panelists will discuss issues of identity, representation, and race as they pertain to their LGBTQ+ communities and experiences.

NSU Art Museum Fort Lauderdale’s A Sense of Pride program is made possible by support from the following funds of the Community Foundation of Broward: Richard Frisby and Edward Burkhart Fund, Gay and Lesbian Broward Community Fund, The Rumbaugh Family Fund, William A. Krueger Charitable Fund, and Mary and Alex Mackenzie Community Impact Fund.

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NOVA SOUTHEASTERN UNIVERSITY PRESENTS

NOVA SINGERS The Rhythm of Life in Music!

v v v v

v v v v

CHUCK STANLEY, Artistic Director ANTHONY CIOTTI, Accompanist PEGGY JOYCE BARBER, Founding Director Emeritus

CONCERT SELECTIONS INCLUDE THE MUSIC OF IRVING BERLIN, GEORGE GERSHWIN, JEROME KERN, OSCAR HAMMERSTEIN, DUKE ELLINGTON, HARRY SIMEONE, JOHN RUTTER, MOSES HOGAN , BILLY JOEL, THE BEATLES AND OTHERS. SPIRITUALS • BROADWAY • PATRIOTIC AUDIENCE FAVORITES

For Good. For Ever.

MAY 17, 2019 FRIDAY 8:00 pm TAFT STREET BAPTIST CHURCH 7241 Taft Street Pembroke Pines 33024

MAY 19, 2019 SUNDAY 4:00 pm CATHEDRAL OF SAINT MARY 7525 NW 2nd Avenue Miami 33150

MAY 21, 2019 TUESDAY 7:30 pm ST MARK’S EPISCOPAL 1750 E Oakland Park Blvd.

Fort Lauderdale 33334

NOVASINGERS@NOVA.EDU • NOVA.EDU/NOVASINGERS (954) 683-8866/Broward County • (561) 212-2112/Palm Beach County ALL PERFORMANCES: $15/ADVANCE TICKETS; $20/PERSON AT THE DOOR CHILDREN 12 & UNDER AND STUDENTS FREE WITH I.D. • ADVANCE DISCOUNTED TICKETS AVAILABLE FROM ANY MEMBER OF THE CHOIR OR FROM OUR WEBSITE NOVASINGERS@NOVA.EDU

“Rollicking fun – all with sharply fashioned wit.” Easy Reader (Los Angeles)

May 31 - June 30, 2019

Tickets are available online at www.IslandCityStage.org or by calling 954-519-2533 Group and non-profit rates available.

Use promo code “OCQ” for a 10% discount.

All performances at Wilton Theater Factory, Main Stage 2304 N Dixie HWY, Wilton Manors, FL 33305

CRUEL INTENTIONS’ JOHN BATTAGLIESE

By Denny Patterson

C

ruel Intentions: The ‘90s Musical Experience will be making an appearance at the Coral Springs Center for the Arts on Sunday, May 19, 2019 for a one night only engagement. Based on the French novel, Les Liaisons Dangereuses, and the classic cult film starring Reese Witherspoon, Ryan Phillippe, and Sarah Michelle Gellar, Cruel Intentions pulls viewers into the manipulative world of step-siblings Sebastian and Kathryn.

Soulless and vindictive, these two spoiled rich kids have an insatiable appetite for sex and ruining people’s lives. Place a bet on whether or not Sebastian can deflower their incoming headmaster’s daughter, Annette Hargrove, the two set out to destroy the innocent girl and anyone who gets in their way. I had the pleasure of chatting with John Battagliese who plays Greg McConnell. A Philadelphia native, he is excited to hit the road for his first national tour. Some of his other theatre credits include Link Larkin in Hairspray, St. Jimmy in American Idiot, and Romeo in BAZ: Star Crossed Love, a musical version of Baz Luhrmann’s films with music from Moulin Rouge, Romeo and Juliet, and The Great Gatsby. This show had a residency at the Palazzo Theatre in Las Vegas.

Thank you so much for taking the time to chat with me, John. Let me start off by asking, where did your passion for acting come from?

One of my earliest memories was seeing a production of Grease in Philadelphia starring Frankie Avalon as the Teen Angel. Aside from being a national celebrity, he was a bit of a hometown hero. He walked on stage and immediately received entrance applause and a standing ovation. I turned to my parents and said, “I want to do that!”

Do you remember the moment when you decided you were going to pursue this as a career?

I truthfully do not remember a time that I made the decision. I was telling people that I wanted to be an actor from as early as fifth grade.

108 | OutClique.com

You are playing closeted jock Greg McConnell.

How would you say you relate to your character?

Well, unlike Greg, I am definitely no superstar on the field, but I absolutely understand the pressure that comes with living that sort of double life. High school and the years surrounding it are difficult for everyone. Add on the fact that you have this huge secret weighing you down, it can become daunting.

I think everyone can relate to a character like Greg because whether you are grappling with coming out, like I was, or you have some other secret within you that no one knows yet, there is this huge fear of the unknown that comes with revealing and ultimately becoming your true self.

What are you looking forward to the most about performing in Cruel Intentions?

I am really excited about the cast we have, they are so talented and hilarious. I am obsessed with the music – we get to sing all the songs I would belt out in the car growing up. Only now they are for an actual audience and not just my mom!

What can audiences expect from this show?

Audiences who are familiar with the film will definitely get their fill of all their favorite movie moments, but I think new and old Cruel fans will leave shocked at the emotional chord the show may strike. There is a sort of magic that the musical numbers spark once integrated into this iconic script.

What do you personally hope to take away from this experience?

I really hope to become better at packing! I am obsessed with clothes and living out of a suitcase will be quite a challenge for me. Stay tuned to see how many pairs of shoes I buy on the road!

For more on this article, go to www.OutClique.com

SUNDAY, MAY 19TH AT 7PM BOX OFFICE 954.344.5990 2855 Coral Springs Drive, Coral Springs, FL 33065 www.TheCenterCS.com

VENETIAN ARTS SOCIETY’S GRAND SALON STEVEN LABRIE AND ROBERTO BERROCAL

V

enetian Arts Society (VAS), a notfor-profit tax exempt 501(c)(3), is a membership-based organization that highlights the multi-cultural and intergenerational diversity of the South Florida community through a celebration of multidisciplinary arts in intimate and interactive art salon settings.

The VAS Grand Salon begins with a wine and hors d’oeuvres reception at 6:00PM and moves into the theater for the 7:00PM Salon Concert.

Following the performance please join us for a champagne toast and dessert with our guest artist.

VAS offers everyone, whether novice or connoisseur, the opportunity to observe and interact with major international performing artists in a unique, multi-faceted and fun artistic-educational-social experience.

Venetian Arts Society, partnered with Nova Southeastern University (NSU) and John Knox Village, presents “Arts for the Ages,” a multi-generational/multi-cultural fine arts program. The goal is to synthesize the total artistic, social, and educational experience and to enrich the individual lives of all in our community through meaningful and purposeful artistic presentations, evoking the vibrancy, energy, and sheer productivity that result when people of all ages come together.

Steven LaBrie, a native of Dallas, TX, is beginning to attract attention for his beautiful

timbre, expressive singing and dramatic presence. Mr. LaBrie was recently named among the five leading lyric baritones to watch by Opera News.

His recent 2017-2018 and 2018-2019 season included Sarasota Opera, Florida Grand Opera, New Amsterdam Opera, Opera Steamboat, San Antonio Symphony, Brooklyn Art Society, Sacramento Philharmonic, Tulsa Opera, Opera Omaha, and San Diego Opera. Mr. LaBrie also made his return to Carnegie Hall in the Three Baritones Sing American Songs concert, on the occasion of a CD release.

Mr. LaBrie has received numerous awards and honors including a 2016 Top Prize award and a 2013 Encouragement Grant from the George London Music Foundation. See more about Steven LaBrie at www.StevenLaBrie.com.

Roberto Berrocal is the Founding Artistic Director of the St. Hugh-Steinway Concert Series. He is also the Principal Coach and Pianist at Florida Grand Opera. The international reviews acclaim him as one of the leading Basque pianists of his generation, due to his technical virtuosity and musical sensitivity.

Mr. Berrocal began his piano studies in his native Spain at the Santurce School of Music with Alicia Ubieta, then on to the Conservatory of Bilbao where he received the Honor Prize.

He made his debut as a soloist with orchestra at age 18 with the Metropolitan Community Orchestra.

VAS’s Grand Salon will be held on Tuesday, May 28, 2019 starting at 6:00PM at NSU Art Museum Fort Lauderdale, 1 East Las Olas Boulevard, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33301.

Purchase tickets and read more about this Grand Salon at www.VenetianArtsSociety.org/Events/Steven-LaBrie-And-Roberto-Berrocal.

VAS/JKV/MOA members $35.00, general admission $50.00, students (with ID) complimentary.

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ALL ABOUT STEVE AN INTERVIEW WITH STEVE GRAND

By Gregg Shapiro

E

Gregg Shapiro: Steve, I spoke with you in 2018, shortly before the release of your second album Not the End of Me. What has the experience of supporting the record been like for you since its release?

Steve Grand: It’s always relieving and gratifying to finally release a body of work like that to the public. I spend a lot of time thinking and overthinking every detail of the record.

Everything from how much reverb should be on the snare drum in a particular song to how to layout all of the artwork for the album booklet.

None of those things can be changed once the album is released, so I feel a lot of pressure to get it right. This record is darker, and more personal than the last one, so it’s release was extra nerve wracking. But my fans have been so supportive of it! I feel so grateful to have their support after all this time.

GS

Since the beginning of your career, music videos have played a considerable role as a means of promoting your

Photo by William Dick

very once in a while, I am given an opportunity to interview an artist at the beginning of their career and on the path towards a meteoric rise. Gay singer/songwriter Steve Grand is one of those people. While still living in Chicago, I was fortunate enough to speak with him in July 2013, just as he was making national headlines for his song and music video "All-American Boy," which quickly logged more than a million views on YouTube.

Since that time, I have had the privilege of not only interviewing him several more times, but also attending his concerts in Chicago, Fort Lauderdale and Provincetown. Grand, who is headlining Key West Pride on June 7, 2019, was kind enough to answer some questions in advance of his performance. Ticket information can be found at www.TheKeyWestTheater.com.

music. Can you please say something about some of the music videos by other artists who have had an effect on you and in what ways they influenced you?

SG

Music videos were one of the things I always looked forward to most when I was a kid, still dreaming about being a singer/ songwriter. When I was a kid, I remember really loving the “Helena” music video by My Chemical Romance. In 2012, Lana Del Rey released her music video for “Ride,” which has become one of my all-time favorites.

GS

There is a new music video for your song “Disciple,” in which we see two versions of Steve Grand. What can you tell me about the concept for the video?

SG

I wanted to find a way to visually represent the duality of light/dark that lives in us all. A few years ago, I was having a rough time with some things in my personal life. It felt like the different sides of me were at OutClique.com | 113

war with each other. My boyfriend at the time said that, in my worst moments, sometimes he felt like I would split off into two different people. Him saying that has always stuck with me, so I wanted to also give voice to the way that difficult time felt for him as well.

SG

It’s just the nature of the times we live in. I believe in making use of the tools we have available to us to get my music out there. The way to make it in entertainment and music is always shifting. You have to be flexible. Instagram is big today, but at some point, there will be another app.

GS

GS

SG

SG

The video is a good example of Steve’s history of facial hair because you appear with a beard and then clean shaven. Do you have a preference for one over the other?

[Laughs] I probably prefer a little bit of facial hair because it’s much more forgiving if I have a breakout or something.

Honestly, I don’t put too much thought into it. I’ll shave it all off every so often just to change it up.

GS

As anyone who has seen your music videos can attest, the camera loves

SG GS

Aw, thanks!

you.

You are welcome. Additionally, there is a degree of acting on your part in each of the videos. Have you ever thought of expanding on that relationship with the camera and increasing your on screen appearances by taking acting roles in movies or on TV? If not, why?

SG

I would like to do more acting. It’s always a matter of what opportunities present themselves. I’ve done a couple little roles here and there already. You can see me in the first episode of Falling For Angels. I’m also going to be in Boy Culture, though the release of that hasn’t been announced.

GS

In addition to music videos, you also make good use of social media, including Instagram. Can you please say something about the indispensability of social media for an artist?

I had the pleasure of attending one of your concerts in Provincetown during the summer of 2018. Will you be doing another residency there this summer?

Thanks for coming [laughs]! Yes, I will be back in Ptown this summer! I’ve been working hard on creating a really different kind of show for the audience. I think people will love it, whether they are fans of my music or not. I’m going to be doing lots of covers as well. I’ll be performing every Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday at 7PM at the Art House from July 2, 2019 through Labor Day.

GS

album?

Have you started working on and recording new music for your next

SG

I’m always writing down ideas for songs; humming melodies into Voice Memos on my phone. But I’ve mostly been focused on learning lots of cover music and really practicing singing and piano and guitar.

GS

Finally, you will be performing June 7, 2019 at Key West Pride. What can fans expect from your set?

SG

They can expect me to do some of my better-known music, like “AllAmerican Boy” and “Stay,” as well as songs off my new album. But I’ll also be doing some new covers from artists like Queen and Elton John and maybe even some Kasey Musgraves, who I am loving right now! It will be a mostly acoustic show where I’ll be singing and switching back and forth from guitar and piano. I can’t wait.

Ticket information can be found at www.TheKeyWestTheater.com.

For booking information on Steve Grand, contact Linda@LeftOfCenterProductions.com.

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DIVERSITY AT MUSEUM OF DISCOVERY & SCIENCE

For more photos of this event, visit us on Facebook at facebook.com/outclique.

Want to submit photos? | Contact us! OutClique@gmail.com 118 | OutClique.com

A CELEBRATION OF FRIENDS

By Denny Patterson

T

om (Tomcat) Pence, a former U.S. Marine, realized early on that the majority of the LGBTQ community is youth-oriented and there was a need for seniors to be celebrated. Therefore, he started A Celebration of Friends, the perfect group for mature men who consider themselves to be among the silver daddy and polar bear crowds.

The sole mission of A Celebration of Friends is to provide a warm, comfortable, safe, and engaging environment that recognizes and promotes self-worth, dignity, kindness, and friendship within the senior population. No senior member among the LGBTQ population deserves to be left out in the cold. Thanks to this organization, Pence has enriched the lives of many. The next Celebration is the July 2019 Lusty Luau in Palm Springs, and I had the pleasure of chatting more with Pence about the event, in addition to the significant impact the organization has made on him and many others.

Thanks for chatting with me again, Tom. For those who are not familiar with A Celebration of Friends, what is it?

A Celebration of Friends, Inc. is a 501(c)4 nonprofit corporation dedicated to benefiting the mature gay community.

When did you start this organization?

Our first Celebration occurred in June 2003 in New Orleans, Louisiana, with 100 men in attendance. As an afterthought, our board thought it would be a good thing for the men of the ACOF to be able to do something charitable while we were there. So, I asked everyone to donate $10 and we ended up giving $1,000 to an organization called Buzzy’s Boys which assists children hospitalized with AIDS. 120 | OutClique.com

You have been working very hard to make sure this organization is and stays a success. What direction do you feel like it is heading?

Since its inception, ACOF has donated over $220,000 to various local charities. That is without any government grants or funds and on the backs of the men who have attended our functions. Going forward, we plan to have the ACOF continue its philanthropic goal of bettering our community.

The Palm Springs Lusty Luau in July 2019 is the next major celebration. What can attendees expect?

Our Lusty Luau in Palm Springs is going to be our first venture outside the state of Florida since we left New Orleans in 2003.

We are excited about going where the weather suits our clothes, or lack thereof.

A person attending our July Celebration can expect to be surrounded by hot weather and hotter men from around the world; daily entertainment, morning coffee klatches, lunch, happy hours and a chance to enter our Speedo, Sexy Senior and Lusty Luau competitions. They can win free registration and room at our next Celebration. One can register at www.CelebrationOfFriends.org.

How many people are already registered, and how many overall are you expecting to attend?

Our registration is up currently, and we are looking to have 300-600 men attend our festivities.

Is this Luau taking the place of the annual July Summer Splash?

The Lusty Luau is our 2019 Summer Splash.

If you have ever experienced the tantalizing feeling of wearing nothing but a grass skirt while being surrounded by some of the sexiest men on the planet as you sway to the delightful sounds of a ukulele, then you understand the pleasure I am talking about.

I urge all men to try it at least once in their lives!

What are some of the top reasons why one should join A Celebration of Friends this July?

If you are a mature man or an admirer, you need to come and be surrounded by new friends who appreciate you for what and who you are. No one will be shamed at our Luau.

We appreciate and respect each person.

What would you like Celebration to accomplish in the next couple of years?

Other than continuing to assist our community in bringing mature men together, the ACOF has no further agenda. In the past, we have had the opportunity to bring in our heroes, Actor Ed Asner and Former Congressman Barney Frank. How do you top that?

Do you still have the weekly Klassic Coffee Klatches?

Yes, one of the issues we have addressed recently was the occurrence of several suicides in the community of Palm Aire.

These occurred in one month. ACOF decided to address the problem the best way we could. As gay men grow old, they tend to become more reclusive, more introspective, and sometimes suffer from the pain of not feeling useful in a culture that worships the young and beautiful. Loneliness is one of our greatest enemies. Initially, ACOF was 122 | OutClique.com

hosting only a summer Celebration and an occasional winter Caribbean Cruise with nothing else planned throughout the year. So, we began to host a weekly coffee klatch open to all men. We have been meeting every Saturday morning, except the first Saturday of the month, at the Skolnick Center in Palm Aire for the past five years. Our motto: “Regardless of what happens Friday night, do not be alone Saturday morning.” Since then, we have also increased our involvement in the Fort Lauderdale community by running the 2nd Saturday Bingo at the South Florida Pride Center each month.

How beneficial do you believe A Celebration of Friends has become? It sounds like this organization has changed the lives of many.

Considering the number of weddings we have had at our Celebrations and the good friends who continue to meet at our family reunions, the money we have raised for gay charities and the thousands of smiles we continue to put on many faces, we feel our contributions to the gay community will continue to flourish.

What are some of your favorite A Celebration of Friends memories?

One of our members was a law enforcement officer who had been wrongfully terminated.

He met former Congressman Barney Frank at our Celebration. With Congressman Frank’s influence, he was able to be reinstated.

What's next for A Celebration of Friends?

Our board has several wonderful surprises coming up. For further up-to-date information, follow us on Facebook and check out our website www.CelebrationOfFriends.org.

BE PROUD. BE YOURSELF. JULIAN'S REVERSE QUINCEANERA

By Steven O. Evans, PhD

Photos Courtesy of "Julian's Reverse Quinceanera"

C

oming out is rarely an easy process.

But it can be even more of challenge for those in their teen years.

Julian’s Fountain of Youth (JFOY) creates opportunities for LGBT youth to partake in activities that include experiential learning and life-enrichment strategies at no cost to them or their families. The goal of these initiatives is to produce future community leaders, while enriching the lives of our LGBT youth both locally and nationally.

On Saturday, September 28, 2019, JFOY will host its annual Reverse Quinceanera. This year’s event will be at the Venue on Wilton Drive in Wilton Manors, FL. The theme will be, “El Baile De Las Reinas / The Queens Ball,” so come dressed as your favorite "Queen.”

We talked with Julian Cavazos about the upcoming event.

Steven O. Evans, PhD: What inspired you to start JFOY? Julian Cavazos: I was inspired to start JFOY over 10 years ago when I took experiential

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learning courses and thought what a wonderful gift this would have been when I was a teen.

I made a commitment to myself that I would someday provide these courses free of charge to any LGBTQ teen who wanted to take them.

I then committed myself to spending several years volunteering in the nonprofit arena learning the ins and outs of a non profit.

SOE JC

Tell our readers one of the most lifechanging youth stories from JFOY.

One of the most life-changing moments for me happened at last year's Fort Lauderdale Youth Empowerment Retreat (FLYER) Graduation. One of our youth was on the spectrum and pretty much stayed to himself. He wouldn’t let anyone touch him nor would he touch anyone. Following the retreat at the graduation, before we did our presentation, his mother came over to me and told me that her son for the first time in his life, came over to her and hugged her, she wept as she told me the only way she could ever get a hug from him, was if she pulled him over and initiated hugging. As emotional as that was,

it got even better. When I called his name to pick up his FLYER certificate, he took the certificate and hugged me. It was truly life changing and a gift that is beyond measure.

SOE JC

Tell us about the upcoming Reverse Quinceanera.

SOE JC

Who is usually in attendance?

SOE JC

How does the event benefit JFOY?

The Reverse Quinceanera is an annual fundraising event that started eight years ago. What was supposed to be a one time fundraiser is now the biggest fundraising event we host. We invite 7-9 contestants to participate in a “Not So Beautiful, Not So Talented but Very Funny Pageant.” The show will open with the Telenovela - Myrna’s In Love and of course Myrna’s big opening number. This year's event theme is El Baile De Las Reinas/ The Queens Ball, so everyone is invited to come dressed as your favorite “Queen.” The event is Saturday, September 28, 2019, from 7-10PM, and followed by The Queens Ball, 10PM-1AM.

The show sells out every year. It’s highly possible the show will be sold out by the time this article comes out, so contact us as soon as you can to make sure you’re able to get tickets. We have family and friends from around the country fly in for this event. They come from as far away as Portland, Sacramento, Houston, Washington, West Virginia, Chicago, and many other places. While this is a family-friendly event, it’s requested that attendees be 21 and over.

Two cocktails and dinner are included with all table and seat purchases.

All the money goes to support JFOY’s annual events, such as the LGBTQ+ Prom, sending youth to Camp Lightbulb’s camps around the country, the FLYER retreat, and our youth going to One Magical Weekend.

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D O N ’ T M I S S N AT E ’ S C O M E D Y S P E C I A L *THE TENNESSEE KID* ON

saturday, october 19th at 8pm BOX OFFICE 954.344.5990

2855 Coral Springs Drive, Coral Springs, FL 33065 www.TheCenterCS.com

WHO TO CALL ACCOUNTING

Coss Bookkeeping & Accounting (754) 666-1288 www.CossBookkeeping.com R3 Accounting (954) 202-9770 www.R3Accounting.com Schultz Tax & Financial Services (954) 300-3829 www.SchultzTFS.com

ARTS, ENTERTAINMENT, & ACTIVITIES

Aventura Arts & Cultural Center (877) 311-7469 www.AventuraCenter.org Broward Center for the Performing Arts (954) 462-0222 www.BrowardCenter.org Cannonball Bash www.CannonballBash.com

A Celebration of Friends, Inc. www.CelebrationOfFriends.org Club Fort Lauderdale (954) 525-3344 www.TheClubs.com Coral Springs Center for the Arts (954) 344-5990 www.TheCenterCS.com Florida Grand Opera (800) 741-1010 www.FGO.org Island City Stage (954) 519-2533 www.IslandCityStage.org Key West Business Guild (305) 294-4603 www.GayKeyWestFL.com

Marlin Beach Tea 2.0 www.JFOY.org Measure for Measure Theatre (954) 866-2622 www.MeasureForMeasureTheatre.com

Museum of Discovery & Science (954) 467-6637 www.MODS.org Nova Singers (954) 683-8866 www.Nova.edu/NovaSingers NSU Art Museum (954) 525-5500 www.NSUArtMuseum.org Outré Theatre Company (954) 300-2149 www.OutreTheatreCompany.com Parker Playhouse (954) 462-0222 www.ParkerPlayhouse.com Randy Roberts Live La Te Da, Key West (305) 296-6706 www.RandyRoberts.net Ronnie Larsen Presents (954) 826-8790 RonnieLarsenPresents@gmail.com

www.RonnieLarsen.com

Venetian Arts Society (954) 709-7447 www.VenetianArtsSociety.org

ATTORNEYS & LAW OFFICES

John D. Mooney, PA (954) 449-2671 www.JohnDMooneyPA.com Ken Keechl Law (954) 271-0667 www.KenKeechlLaw.com

AUTO DEALERSHIPS

Vista BMW Pompano Beach 744 N Federal Highway Pompano Beach, FL 33062 (844) 211-3810 www.VistaBMWPompano.com Vista Mini 4401 W Sample Road Coconut Creek, FL 33073 (866) 766-0574 www.VistaMini.com Vista Volkswagen Pompano Beach 700 N Federal Highway Pompano Beach, FL 33062 (844) 567-1357 www.VistaVW.com

BARS & CLUBS

Slow Burn Theatre Company (954) 323-7884 www.SlowBurnTheatre.org

Bourbon Street Pub 724 Duval Street Key West, FL 33040 www.BourbonStPub.com

South Florida Symphony Orchestra (954) 522-8445 www.SouthFloridaSymphony.org

Club Silver 2209 Wilton Drive Wilton Manors, FL 33305 (754) 225-2711

Want to get listed? Contact us!

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Taste The Islands Experience (417) 812-5663 www.TTiExperience.com

OutClique@gmail.com | 954-998-6429

Georgie's Alibi Monkey Bar 2266 Wilton Drive Wilton Manors, FL 33305 (954) 565-2526 www.Alibi.LGBT Le Boy 1243 NE 11 Avenue Fort Lauderdale, FL 33304 www.LeBoyTonight.com The Pub 2283 Wilton Drive Wilton Manors, FL 33305 (754) 200-5244 www.ThePubWM.com Scandals Saloon 3073 NE 6 Avenue Wilton Manors, FL 33334 www.ScandalsFla.com

BEACHES (GAY)

Haulover (Nude Beach) 10800 Collins Avenue Miami Beach, FL 33154 Sebastian Beach Near 1 N Fort Lauderdale Beach Boulevard Fort Lauderdale, FL 33304

CAR WASHES

Majestic Car Wash (954) 568-9450 www.MajesticCarWashFlorida.com

CATERING

The Pink Sub (954) 566-2219 www.PinkSub.com

CHURCHES & SYNAGOGUES

Holy Angels Catholic Church (954) 633-2987 www.HolyAngelsFL.net

Sunshine Cathedral (954) 462-2004 www.SunshineCathedral.org

United Church of Christ (954) 563-4271 www.UCCFTL.org

CLEANING SERVICES

House One Call (954) 515-7615 (954) 515-2736

CONSUMER SERVICES

Better Business Bureau SEFlorida.App.BBB.org/Connect

COUNSELING SERVICES

Michael A. Farris, PsyD (973) 865-0413 MAFarris@aol.com

ELECTRICAL

R.T.S. Electrical 24 Hour Service & Free Estimates Home Inspection, Residential & Commercial 19 yrs of Quality Service (954) 257-9509

GRAPHIC DESIGN

Sach Design Group (954) 647-3063 www.SachAdGroup.com GYMS & WORKOUT FACILITIES BodyTek (954) 661-6696 www.BodyTekFitness.com G21 3401 N Dixie Highway Oakland Park, FL 33334 www.G21Fitness.com

HEALTH & WELLNESS

BeWell MedSpa (954) 530-5203 www.BeWellMedSpa.com Genesis Health Institute (954) 561-3175 www.GHInstitute.com

HIV & AIDS SERVICES

FERTILITY CLINICS

AIDS Health Foundation (AHF) (954) 767-0273 www.AIDSHealth.org

FINANCIAL ADVISORS

Southern Sands Design (954) 500-7263 www.SouthernSandsDesign.com

IVF Florida Reproductive Associates (866) 770-2168 www.IVFFlorida.com Northwestern Mutual Investments Services, LLC Linda Buccilli, CLTC (561) 445-2645 Linda.Buccilli@NM.com

FITNESS & NUTRITION

Ty Dorce (954) 815-6905 www.TheProgramByTy.com

HOME DECOR

HVAC

A&H Air Conditioning (954) 850-9480 BrowardAC@aol.com

INSURANCE

FOR RENT

We Insure (954) 903-7519 www.WeInsureFtLaud.com

GLASSES & EYEWEAR

LAWN MAINTENANCE & DESIGN Integrity Landscape Service John (954) 812-5434 Mike (561) 633-7419

Wilton Metropolitan Apartments (855) 780-0946 www.WiltonMetro.com Chic Optique (954) 567-3937 www.ChicOptique.net

Want to get listed? Contact us!

www.IntegrityLandscapeService.com

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Landscape Solutions (954) 525-5855 www.LandscapeSolutionsFlorida.com

LODGING

The Big Coconut Guesthouse (954) 712-9600 www.TheBigCoconutGuesthouse.com

Equator Resort (305) 294-7775 www.EquatorResort.com The Grand Resort & Spa (954) 630-3000 www.GrandResort.net Island House (305) 294-6284 www.IslandHouseKeyWest.com New Orleans House 724 Duval Street, Ste #2 Key West, FL 33040 (305) 293-9800 www.NewOrleansHouseKW.com

MASSAGE & SPA SERVICES

David Douglas Spa (954) 566-0042 www.DavidDouglasSpa.com

Island City Massage (954) 882-0473 www.ChristianPerezMassage.com J. Cohen’s Day Spa (754) 206-4687 JimmyCohensDaySpa.com Keith Ryan Spa Treatments 954-394-1252 Trained, certified massage therapist

Specializing in deep tissue and Swedish massage, body scrubs, facials detox, body wraps Incalls and outcalls

Lisa Hoffman Holistic health, pain, & relieving massage www.modere.com/j245941 $10 off with this ad Globalmassager@gmail.com Massage by Jim 1881 NE 26th Street Wilton Manors, FL 33305 (954) 600-5843 www.MassageByJim.com License #MM22293 Spa Cabanas (954) 564-7764 www.TheCabanasGuesthouse.com

MEDICAL

Florida Medical Center (954) 735-6000 www.FloridaMedCtr.com

MUSICIANS

Cindy Curtis & Company South FL’s Finest Live Jazz Entertainment (954) 298-8158

ORIENTAL MEDICINE

Dr. David Webb, DOM (954) 289-8901 www.DavidWebbDOM.com

PERSONAL TRAINING

Greco Fit (954) 995-1321 www.GrecoFit.com Stephan@GrecoFit.com

Yury Molchan (305) 764-6405 Free Consultations. Reach your Fitness Goals! www.YM-Fitness.com

Want to get listed? Contact us!

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PODIATRIC MEDICINE

Dr. Vicram V. Thaker (954) 358-2363 www.954FootCare.com

POOL SERVICES

Cool Pools Barb Stanton (954) 235-0775

Skimmer Pools (954) 367-7007 www.SkimmersPools.com

PROFESSIONAL ORGANIZATIONS

GFLGLCC- Greater Fort Lauderdale LGBT Chamber of Commerce (954) 523-3500 www.GoGayFortLauderdale.com WMBA (954) 358-4567 www.WiltonManorsBusiness Association.com

REALTORS & BROKERS

Amy McGrotty

Castelli Luxury Real Estate Services

(954) 347-1732 www.Amy.CastelliHomes.com Felipe Aragon Galleria International Realty (954) 588-5046 FAragone47@hotmail.com Henri Frank Group ONE Sotheby’s International Realty (954) 604-9999 www.HenriFrank.com Kip Reynolds Atlantic Properties International (954) 854-3048 www.KipReynolds.com

OutClique@gmail.com | 954-998-6429

Risa & Cindy Goffin Signature International Premier Properties (561) 866-2742 www.GoffinTeam.com Steve Margolis Re/Max Experience (954) 684-7888 www.HomesBySteveFL.com The James Michael Team Galleria International Realty Robert (James) Graham (954) 837-3427 Michael Gagne (603) 630-0316

RESTAURANTS

Betty’s Soul Food 601 NW 22nd Rd Fort Lauderdale, FL 33311 (954) 583-9121 Cuscatlán Restaurante Salvadoreño 3710 N Andrews Avenue Oakland Park, FL 33309 (954) 563-0773 Georgie's Alibi Monkey Bar 2266 Wilton Drive Wilton Manors, FL 33305 (954) 565-2526 www.Alibi.LGBT J. Mark’s Restaurant & Bar 1245 N Federal Highway Fort Lauderdale, FL 33304 (954) 390-0770 1490 NE 23 Street (E Copans Road) Pompano Beach, FL 33062 (954) 782-7000 www.JMarksRestaurant.com Mangia Mangia 900 Southard Street Key West, FL 33040 www.Mangia-Mangia.com

The Pub 2283 Wilton Drive Wilton Manors, FL 33305 (754) 200-5244 www.ThePubWM.com

SALONS & HAIR SERVICES Dick’s Service Station 3528 NE 12 Avenue Oakland Park, FL 33334 (954) 353-5507 www.Dicks954.com Transitions Hair (954) 742-4500 www.DinosHRC.com

SENIOR CARE SERVICES

The Pride Center at Equality Park (954) 463-9005 www.PrideCenterFlorida.org

SPIRITUALITY

Love & Light Spiritual Emporium 1419 E Commercial Blvd, Ste B Oakland Park, FL 33334 (954) 261-3878 www.LoveLightSpiritualEmporium.com

TATTOOS & PIERCINGS

Neptune’s Daughter Tattoo (954) 533-2506 2412 Wilton Dr Wilton Manors, FL 33305

www.NeptunesDaughterTattoos.com

TRAVEL SERVICES

Rainbow Care (954) 532-5451 RainbowServices@comcast.net

Freedom Travel (954) 565-2345 www.BookFreedomTravel.com

SHOPPING & RETAIL

Rainbow Travel Services (954) 944-1366

InTouch with You 706A Duval Street Key West, FL 33040 (305) 294-1995 Mr. Coopers Fine gifts & accessories (954) 306-8521 MrCoopersWM@gmail.com

SOCIAL & OUTREACH Compass LGBTQ Communiyt Center

(561) 533-9699 www.CompassGLCC.com Julian’s Fountain of Youth (754) 701-5040 www.JFOY.org Latinos Salud (954) 765-6239 www.LatinosSalud.org

Want to get listed? Contact us!

Richard Rossy Cruises, Inc. (305) 332-5599 RRossy@CruisesInc.com www.RRossy.CruisesInc.com Source Events (305) 672-9779 www.SourceEvents.com

WINE, BEER, & SPIRITS

Late Night Liquors 1249 NE 11 Avenue (next to LeBoy) Fort Lauderdale, FL 33304 (954) 368-8798 www.LateNightLiquors.com

YOUTH ORGANIZATIONS

Julian’s Fountain of Youth (754) 701-5040 Info@JFoY.org www.JFoY.org

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THE OOH LA LA

AT THE LA TE DA RANDY ROBERTS

By Denny Patterson

134 | OutClique.com

Photo by Barry Fitzgerald

R

andy Roberts is a drag queen/female impersonator who is very well known throughout the Key West community. His signature show at LaTeDa is an all live, multimedia tribute to some of the world’s most beloved entertainers. Randy’s uncanny impersonations, especially Cher and Bette Midler, has kept him in the spotlight for over 20 years. Randy closes every show with a mini-lounge act that allows him the chance to get up close and personal with the audience.

When you are in the presence of Randy Roberts, you are treated like family. In addition to drag, Randy is an accomplished lyricist, sound technician, writer, and producer.

His career has allowed him to travel all over the world, and he has been featured in TV, movies, and off-Broadway. I had the pleasure of chatting more with Randy about his successful career.

Who is Randy Roberts and what is he all about?

Randy Roberts is an actor who found a gimmick doing female impersonation. He/I was in theater as a young teen, and I was in a repertory company my senior year of high school. It was similar to a high school for performing arts, but it was only half a day of theater craft and wasn’t in a school dedicated to the arts. It was in a regular, public high school that had a state of the art (at the time!) theater. I had never thought about doing drag.

I wanted to be a musical theater actor and go to Broadway! Let’s just say I went down a different path, wearing very different shoes! I am all about performing. It does not matter if I am in drag or not. I am happiest when I am on a stage or set.

I first did drag in my senior year of high school, when we went on an out of town field trip.

As a treat, we were taken to see the “Rocky Horror Picture Show.” We were told to bring costumes. I raided the costume shop at school and went in drag. Let’s just say that the only horror at the "Rocky Horror Picture Show" that night was me in drag! It was not pretty! The first time I did more polished drag, and I use the word polished very liberally here, was on a dare in a drag contest at the College Cue Club in Norfolk, VA. I did not win. I didn’t look as bad as the first time, but I wasn’t far from it. Luckily, a few established queens saw something in me and helped me clean up my drag. I did drag in Norfolk for many years, until I moved out of town. I stopped drag for a couple of years, and in the mid-80s, I was sent to South Florida for a job with a harbor cruise ship company, as a singing waiter.

There was a female impersonation show at the Newport Beach Hotel in North Miami Beach.

It was called, “The Foam Rubber Follies.” I went to see it with some friends from work, and I immediately thought “I can do that.” I asked the producer if they were hiring. I got an audition, and I was hired! This was a smaller show. Maybe five queens and two dancers,

Photo by Barry Fitzgerald

How long have you been doing drag, and what originally got you started?

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with an emcee that sang live. The gowns were gorgeous. The costumes for the showgirls were over the top. I was bitten by the big drag bug and never looked back.

So, would you say “The Foam Rubber Follies” was the moment when you officially decided that you were going to pursue drag as a career?

Photo by Bobby Miller

I think the gig was the turning point. That is when I changed my name to Randy Roberts.

The Randy is real, the Roberts is not. I changed my name because I did not think my family would want people to know they were related to someone who did drag. When I told my mother, the first thing she said was, “How will anyone know you’re my son?!” She has been my biggest supporter throughout my life.

How would you describe your aesthetic?

I am addicted to glitz and glamour! If it sparkles, I want to wear it! I love Bob Mackie’s designs. It’s bling with style. As for my style of performing, I am a huge fan of both Jim Bailey and Charles Pierce. If you do not know who they are, look them up on YouTube. Jim “became” his characters. He had studied every detail of them, and it is mesmerizing to watch. Charles studied his ladies, but always let himself come through. I like to take both of their styles and add my touches. It’s all about the illusion.

Photo by Anabel Williams

You have your own performance area at the LaTeDa Hotel in Key West. What drew you to Key West, and how long have you been performing there?

I first came to Key West with a female impersonation revue. It was the first show I did after "The Foam Rubber Follies." We were in Key West for six weeks and then continued to Chicago. We closed there on New Year’s Eve, and I came back to Key West. I loved it here. I only stayed eight months that time. The show then went back on the road. After working all over the world, I was asked to come to Key West to be the surprise entertainment for a birthday party. I came, I performed, and I never left! I was supposed to be here for a few days.

The owner of one of the clubs asked me to do 136 | OutClique.com

my show for the weekend. It went well, and he asked me to stay for the next weekend.

That went on and on. I found an apartment and stayed. That was March of 1998. That August, he asked me if I would go to LaTeDa and work there. He wanted to build up business. I went, and the rest is history. I have been at LaTeDa, since August 1998. In 2001, they built the Crystal Room for me. I have been very lucky!

What can audiences expect from your shows, and why should people come to see you?

My mother says my show is a cabaret show that happens to have a female impersonator in it. There’s a bit of Bette Midler, a healthy dose of Cher, and a huge helping of my own character - Randy Roberts. The show changes every night, depending on the audience. All live vocals, gorgeous costumes, and spitfire comedy. One thing that brings people back is the interaction with the audience. The comedy springs from the conversations. I am also very careful to never go too far. Don’t get me wrong, I will say whatever pops into my head, but I try to never cross the line into pure shock. I always say that if my mother would be upset by it, I won’t go there. One of my favorite things about my show is that all ages come.

Evidently, I have become the family drag show!

As long as the parents feel their kids can handle it, I say bring ‘em!

Speaking of Cher and Bette Midler, your impersonations of them are uncanny. How would you say your impressions stand out from other drag performers who impersonate these celebrities?

I am best known for my Bette and Cher. When I started doing impersonations of famous people, I focused on the look and lip synced to the original artists. As I progressed, I started singing live. I have always sung, but I thought I couldn’t sing in drag. I figured I would sound too much like a man. What I have realized is that the voice fits the face it is coming from. I think I have found a happy mix of the artist’s most noticeable traits, both vocal and physical, and

my own touches. As long as the audience believes the illusion, my work is successful.

What is your personal favorite part about doing drag and performing?

I love the immediate response. I have done television and movies, and I love the work, but there is nothing like the sound of laughter and applause. I also love singing. It is my form of therapy. I can get out all my stress by belting out a song!

Throughout your entire time as a drag queen, what would you say have been some of your biggest career accomplishments?

Drag has given me the chance to be noticed and get into some doors. I made my Las Vegas debut at the Sahara Hotel in the Congo Theater. That is the same stage where Ann Margret, Sonny and Cher, George Burns, and Judy Garland performed. I was on “One Life to Live” as “Cher” and even got to lip sync to my own voice - that’s another story entirely!

I made my off-Broadway debut in a workshop of an original musical, and then got to be in the world premiere production of it in San Francisco. Made my big screen debut in the film “Any Day Now,” with Alan Cumming and Frances Fisher. I have had the thrill of singing with orchestras around the country. Perhaps the most surprising was being asked to go on America’s Got Talent. It has been quite a ride, and it’s not over yet!

What is next for Randy Roberts? Do you have any upcoming projects we should be on the lookout for?

I am always on the move, career wise. I am heading to Toronto, Norfolk, London and Sitges, Spain in June. It is my second time in London and my first in Toronto and Sitges.

There are some other things brewing, but I am not allowed to talk about them – yet! You can find me most weeks in Key West in the Crystal Room Cabaret at LaTeDa, and I keep my schedule up to date on my website: www.RandyRoberts.net.

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