OutClique Magazine November 2020

Volume 4, Issue 12 November 2020

Kal Gajraj

Peter London Global Dance Company Nicole Halliwell AIDS the other Pandemic

Sega Flux Erin Bassett LGBT Veterans

Steven O. Evans, Phd

Publisher and Editor in Chief Steven@OutClique.com

Arthur Wood III

Associate Editor Arthur@OutClique.com

Connie Evans

Chief Copy Editor Mother of the Publisher

Sach AD Group

Director of Graphic Design

Mike Ritzi

Executive Director of Sales

Chander Scott

Director of Social Media & Assistant to the Publisher

Chris Lodge

Director of Technology

Irv Scott

Sales Manager

Rivendell Media

National Advertising

Gregg Shapiro

Senior Entertainment Writer

Denny Patterson

Senior Lifestyle Writer

Contributing Writers

Andrew Armano, Rod Davis, Dr. Stephen Fallon, John M. Hayden, Marty Kiar, Patrick Rogers, Eric Noel Roman

Distribution

Robby Wagenseil & Luis Eduardo, Miami-Dade

A publication of OutClique, LLC (954) 998-6429 www.OutClique.com www.Facebook.com/OutClique OutClique@gmail.com OutClique, LLC is not responsible for statements or opinions expressed in advertisements or articles.

What Mask Do You Wear?

Photo by Michael Murphy Photographic

By Steven O. Evans, PhD

A

s we round out the last couple of months of 2020, I still joke about whether I am going to perform surgery or rob the bank every time when I wear a mask to go out for a meal or just to buy milk at the grocery store. I don’t mean, of course, to make light of the serious pandemic that has gripped our world, but I believe laughter is still the best medicine 1.

I recently posted a picture on Facebook of the masks I have in my car. They are an assortment of masks from Florida Medical Center, Fort Lauderdale International Film Festival (FLiFF), Pride Fort Lauderdale, Miss Richfield 1981, South Florida Symphony Orchestra, and various others. I used to collect the lanyards from festivals and events, and I now have a collection of masks. What a shift in paradigms this has been.

I want to challenge us to think about the other masks 2 that we wear. No, not the ones made of material, but the ones from the hurts and trauma of our past. They are much thicker than these of linen or cotton fabricated by human hands. And many of them, we have been carrying for years. Yes, they may protect us and our emotions. But oftentimes, they are walls and barriers that push people away 3.

What mask are you wearing? What pain do you have that has surfaced as a result of 2020? I challenge each of us to look to 2021 with a fresh start, drop some of the masks that we have been hiding behind, and create deeper, more meaningful friendships.

My intuition tells me that great things are to come. Let’s let happiness be abounding 4.

All the best.

Steven O. Evans, PhD Publisher and Editor in Chief Psychiatric Times. “Laughter is the Best Medicine.” 35 (8).

American Journal of Psychiatry. “The Multivariate Masks of Depression.” April 2006.

3 Journal of Personality. “Defensiveness and Defense Mechanisms.” January 2002.

4 As quoted from and in memory of Dr. Angela Easterday-Holder, former Chair and Professor of Music at Carson-Newman University.

1 2

OutClique.com | 5

CHAD CHAD LIVING LIVING WITH WITH HIV SINCE HIV SINCE 20182018 REAL REAL BIKTARVY BIKTARVY PATIENT PATIENT

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

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

BIKTARVY BIKTARVY does does not not curecure HIV-1 HIV-1 or AIDS. or AIDS.

AskAsk your your healthcare healthcare provider provider if BIKTARVY if BIKTARVY is right is right for for you.you.

Featured Featured patient patient compensated compensated

by Gilead.

by Gilead.

Watch Watch Chad’s Chad’s story story at BIKTARVY.com at BIKTARVY.com

IMPORTANT FACTS FOR BIKTARVY®

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

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 and children who weigh at least 55 pounds.

It can either be used in people who have never taken HIV-1 medicines before, or people who are replacing their current HIV-1 medicines and whose healthcare provider determines they meet certain requirements.

BIKTARVY does not cure HIV-1 or AIDS. HIV-1 is the virus that causes AIDS. Do NOT take BIKTARVY if you also take a medicine that contains:  dofetilide  rifampin  any other medicines to treat HIV-1 POSSIBLE SIDE EFFECTS OF BIKTARVY BIKTARVY may cause serious side effects, including:

(bik-TAR-vee)

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

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.

 Those in the “Most Important Information About BIKTARVY” section.

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.

 Changes in your immune system.

Your immune system may get stronger and begin to fight infections.

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

Please see Important Facts, including important warnings, continued on the next page and at BIKTARVY.com.

REAL

BIKTARVY

PAT I E N T S

ZACH

D’EVA

HUGO

CHAD

NIKKI

DIMITRI

Meet a few of the extraordinary people who take BIKTARVY.

Watch their stories at BIKTARVY.com Featured patients compensated by Gilead.

IMPORTANT FACTS FOR BIKTARVY® (CONTINUED) BEFORE TAKING BIKTARVY Tell your healthcare provider if you:  Have or have had any kidney or liver problems, including hepatitis infection.  Have any other health problems.  Are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. It is not known if BIKTARVY can harm your unborn baby. Tell your healthcare provider if you become pregnant while taking BIKTARVY.  Are breastfeeding (nursing) or plan to breastfeed. Do not breastfeed. HIV-1 can be passed to the baby in breast milk.

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

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

GET MORE INFORMATION

Tell your healthcare provider about all the medicines you take:

 This is only a brief summary of important information about BIKTARVY. Talk to your healthcare provider or pharmacist to learn more.

 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.

 If you need help paying for your medicine, visit BIKTARVY.com for program information.

 Go to BIKTARVY.com or call 1-800-GILEAD-5

Please see Important Facts, including important warnings above and at BIKTARVY.com.

BIKTARVY, the BIKTARVY Logo, KEEP CREATING, LOVE WHAT’S INSIDE, GILEAD, and the GILEAD Logo are trademarks of Gilead Sciences, Inc., or its related companies. Version date: February 2020 © 2020 Gilead Sciences, Inc. All rights reserved. BVYC0247 05/20

JOURNEY TO THE STARS

By Steven O. Evans, Phd

R

eady to relax? Take a journey to the stars with the Sega Flux. A home planetarium system, the Flux will take you on a journey from the comfort of your own home. As the most powerful and up to date system, it transforms your room into a galaxy that is not so far, far away. Relieve the stress of the day by taking time to meditate and ponder the wonders of our universe. But keep in mind, this is no ordinary star system. The Sega Flux utilizes the most brilliant glass lenses and brightest LED to create the most unique interstellar experience.

Go to www.Segatoys.Space to begin your voyage.

OutClique.com | 9

The Gift of Style Erin Bassett’s unique gifts are totally perfect for family, friends, and even yourself.

With the holiday season approaching, the time-honored annoyance of finding a new gift idea is upon us once again. While the ultimate goal is to bring a smile to someone’s face, it can be too easy to give in to the stress of searching for a truly unique gift that checks all the boxes.

Fortunately, your search can end here, thanks to Erin Bassett Artistry.

You can explore a variety of perfect holiday gifts at ErinBassettArtistry.com. Smaller gifts of a single pair of earrings, fashion mask, or a glam bag are great stocking stuffers and low investment purchases. Necklaces and vegan leather clutch purses are perfect to accessorize with outfits for the office or nights out on the town. For a more versatile and functional gift, create a look by combining matching earrings, a necklace, and a clutch purse all in one holiday present which can be used together or with different outfits and accessories from your recipient’s wardrobe.

One aspect of Erin’s work that cannot be missed are the colors she uses in her wearable art pieces.

Her inspiration is derived from nature and her creations are an homage to the vibrant flora and fauna of our world. “I’m fascinated with the interplay of strong color and abstract shapes, Bassett explains. “By combining yards of silk fabric, metal washers, glass beads, and rubber bands, I can create wearable sculptures which are both truly unexpected and timeless.”

Bassett’s unique collection of sophisticated wearable art pieces sell in boutiques throughout the United States. Explore styles online at ErinBassettArtistry.com.

Create Some Holiday Magic For any occasion or just because, you can choose the perfect gift from a collection of elegant and stylish wearable art pieces, exclusively from Erin Bassett Artistry — it begins with you.

Silk Shibori Necklaces & Earrings Vegan Leather Clutches Fashion Masks & Glam Bags ErinBassettArtistry.com

KAL GAJRAJ

Executive Director, Peter London Global Dance Company Written and photographed by Andy Armano | www.AndyArmano.com Cover Photo by Andy Armano 12 | OutClique.com

K

al is an All-American story – a first generation American and a self-made man who has created a successful life in business and the arts. He is the executive director of the worldrenowned Peter London Global Dance Company (PLGDC), a company on the cutting edge of dance that also invests in and nurtures local talent in extraordinary ways. His leadership will ensure the PLGDC continues to enrich arts patrons as well as the lives of underprivileged youth with big dreams and great talent.

Andy Armano: So, let's just start by telling me a little about where you came from, what your upbringing was like, etc.

Kal Gajraj: Sure. So I was originally born in Queens, in New York. My family moved down here when I was very young because my father started a shipping company that exported goods and services from Miami to the Caribbean and throughout South America. I'm a first generation American, which I'm very proud of. My family immigrated to the United States from Guyana, which was ruled by the British. A lot of folks don't realize where Guyana is, but it's in South America. I was born in New York, grew up here in South Florida, went to elementary, middle, high school, and college

here, and started my career here.

So, South Florida is home and is the only thing I know.

AA

You're now the Executive Director of PLGDC. For those who haven’t yet had the privilege of knowing about this amazing company, give me an introduction.

KG

PLGDC is Miami's iconic contemporary dance ensemble, and we are the only multicultural dance company in South Florida. We are the most diverse when it comes to the dancers, leadership, the board, and so on.

AA KG

What drives the multicultural vision of the company?

Our mission is to be able to support the local talent and dreams of artists that are growing up here in Miami. Over the years, our dancers have gone through high school and then on to New World School of the Arts, Miami Dade College, or out of state. They have been personally tutored by Peter London. They've gone on to have amazing careers.

And then, they come back to perform in our shows. Peter London's mission has always been to take these kids in underserved communities, in black and brown communities, and nurture their talent. They need to know that they CAN dance ballet or OutClique.com | 13

contemporary dance because for a lot of these kids, that’s a life that only exists in movies. Peter London gives them a platform that a lot of arts organizations don't give them.

AA

What are some of the barriers of entry into the performing arts as a career for people coming out of underprivileged neighborhoods?

KG

The lack of programs. There is simply a lack of programs in underserved communities for kids to paint, draw, sing, dance, etc. The arts funding has been taken out of the public schools, so with a lot of the schools now, they don't even teach the arts anymore. They don't teach music, they don't teach theater, they don't teach dance. That's something that local organizations have taken upon themselves to do with after school programs to get these communities excited, and to get these kids excited and develop their passions for whatever it is they want to do. Our dance company nurtures talent over time, so we have many dancers returning to the area after performing all over the world.

AA

That’s an incredibly strong emphasis on keeping ties with dancers as their careers progress. What a brilliant idea.

14 | OutClique.com

KG

Peter London does a great job with inviting back our dancers and choreographers every year. Not only does that support the dancers, but it also builds a history with the patrons. Our patrons know them from when they were growing up here. When the dancers go away to perform, our patrons look forward to seeing them again. We host talks in which our dancers are sharing about their professional lives. It's quite an experience to watch them as they grow up in Miami, attend the New World or Juilliard, and then go on to have these amazing careers around the world. They might be dancing in The Lion King, performing in a Broadway show, or performing a ballet overseas.

AA

Speaking of love of the arts, where did you get your love for the arts?

KG

It was from school. I was fortunate enough to have an arts program in school. I'll never forget, it was my senior year in high school and my English teacher took students on a field trip to a Broadway show, and it was the first Broadway show I had ever been to. I absolutely fell in love with the whole aspect of live theater. The lighting, sets, design, costumes, acting, and singing. I love all these and I love everything there is to do that makes up live theater.

OutClique.com | 15

16 | OutClique.com

AA KG

You’ve been on the business side of the arts.

Yes, and I've always been passionate about it since.

When I got the opportunity to work for Florida Grand Opera (FGO) and to be actually in the industry, it was a dream come true. But now being able to lead an arts organization, I feel as though it's come full circle. I am able to influence this generation of kids that are growing up so they continue their interest in the arts. We work with college kids that are wanting to pursue dance. We can give each of them that opportunity.

AA

What a fantastic way to build an artist community by building a connection between patrons, fans, and artists. How has the company adapted to the COVID-19 pandemic?

KG

We have moved online and we continue to engage our patrons. Our goal was to present content that is easily accessible and not necessarily long programs.

We post videos of about 10 to 20 minutes. The longest one I think is 30 minutes. We post interviews and excerpts of past performances. It’s been a big hit because we're able to give our patrons something to enjoy at home until we're able to

come together in the theater again.

As I am having conversations with our patrons and our donors, I know they are very excited to come back.

They want to come back. They are just concerned about sitting next to someone or that type of thing and being in those environments. So, part of my job as leadership is to have discussions with the venues and all the health and safety protocols for audiences and for those of us backstage.

AA

I always say the arts are not optional. They are the lifeblood of a community and help us with the experience of being human.

KG

I think we all need the arts, especially now in this time of the pandemic and social injustice.

This is our 10th anniversary year, and we're premiering a new work by Peter London later on this year called WOMEN-ROSES-WATER. The show is dedicated to women who have lost a loved one through this pandemic and through social injustice.

AA

This is the beautiful heart of it for me – creating a full circle and building for the future. It's really wonderful. Thank you for what you do. Your work touches so many lives. And, thank you for sitting down with OutClique and sharing your story.

OutClique.com | 17

LeNora Jaye at Alibi Photos Courtesy of SRL Media

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The Staff

dean

jason

dan

tommy

We Welcome You Home MASTER JERRY

while proudly presenting you the new Mona’s!

RAMROD

Photos Courtesy of SRL Media

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THE PUB

Photos Courtesy of SRL Media

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GEORGIE'S ALIBI MONKEY BAR Photos Courtesy of SRL Media

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TROPICS GRILLE Photos Courtesy of SRL Media

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PUSH UP FOR PETS AT HUNTERS NIGHTCLUB Photos Courtesy of SRL Media

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The best part of winning awards is that we get them by treating you well.

Being the only hospital in Broward County recognized as a Heathcare Equality Leader for 2019 is an important distinction we’re proud to receive. All of us at Florida Medical Center know there’s more to healthcare than medicine. There’s kindness. Attentiveness. And compassion to treat you and your family well. Every day.

To learn more or find a doctor, visit FloridaMedCtr.com

REUSABLE SANITARY PADS KEEP ZAMBIAN GIRLS IN SCHOOL Julie Pascault (Courtesy of AHF) Photo Courtesy of AHF

A

HF staff in Zambia provided 800 free sanitary pads to 200 school-aged girls, 7,200 condoms, and wellness checkups accompanied by HIV tests during a recent visit to a community in need in Chisamba – a small rural town outside the capital city of Lusaka.

“Reusable sanitary pads are very much needed in these vulnerable communities, as many girls can miss up to 20% of school days due to a lack of feminine hygiene products,” said AHF Zambia Country Program Manager Dr. Mabvuto Katwizi Kango. “And unfortunately, many are also forced to drop out of school because of unplanned pregnancies or child marriages, so the donations of pads and condoms address multiple important issues.”

“The donation of pads could not have come at a better time than now with our girls starting to come back to school after staying away for a long time due to COVID-19 health restrictions,” added Grace Banda, Board Secretary for Chisamba District Education. “The pads will go a long way in preventing further absenteeism from school among girls.”

In addition to the donations, AHF staff was on hand to deliver health services, including HIV testing, check-ups on blood pressure and blood sugar, and an information station where community members could access health education as needed.

AHF has been working in Zambia since 2007 and currently provides HIV care and treatment to 87,103 registered clients.

OutClique.com | 45

AIDS: THE OTHER PANDEMIC Julie Pascault (Courtesy of AHF)

AHF welcomes everyone worldwide – organizations and individuals alike – to utilize the theme “AIDS: The Other Pandemic."

Even though HIV/AIDS is treatable and preventable, 38 million people are still living with HIV worldwide. There are 1.7 million new infections annually, and an estimated 690,000 people still die from HIV/AIDS-related causes every year. An estimated 12.6 million people living with HIV/AIDS are still not accessing lifesaving treatment.

“COVID-19 has stolen the headlines and devastated communities worldwide, but we must not forget the pandemic that has been raging for more than 30 years and still affects millions of people globally,” said Terri Ford, AHF Chief of Global Advocacy and Policy. “It’s absolutely vital that world leaders also keep their attention on HIV this World AIDS Day and beyond – and campaigns like ‘AIDS: The Other Pandemic’ are just one way to urge them to keep the promise on AIDS.” The global AIDS response still consistently falls short each year by up to $6 billion of what is needed to sufficiently fund efforts around the world. Government donors must give their 46 | OutClique.com

Courtesy of AHF

T

his World AIDS Day, AIDS Healthcare Foundation (AHF) is announcing the timely theme – “AIDS: The Other Pandemic.” This new theme and corresponding logo serve as a reminder to the world that even in times of a new pandemic, HIV/AIDS remains one of the deadliest infectious diseases in history and must be kept high on the global public health agenda.

fair share to improve on and continue HIV prevention efforts and ensure everyone who needs it has equitable access to lifesaving care and treatment.

“Even though we have made great strides in the fight against HIV/AIDS in Africa and around the world, we still have a long way to go,” added Dr. Penninah Iutung, AHF’s Africa Bureau Chief. “It is simply unacceptable that people living with HIV in many parts of the world still struggle to get free or affordable testing and antiretroviral therapy. Condoms are even hard to come by in many countries, though they are the most effective way to stop HIV transmission and extremely cost effective. Whether rich or poor, everyone deserves the ability to obtain lifesaving medicines, including generic drugs, regardless of their economic standing. As there is still no HIV vaccine on the horizon, guaranteeing prevention and treatment for all is the only way we’ll defeat the virus and eventually end this pandemic.”

On World AIDS Day 2020, AHF will be hosting a multitude of virtual and social-distanced live events. Be sure to be on the lookout and join us in person or online to help ensure the world never forgets “AIDS: The Other Pandemic.”

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WhatsApp® BOOSTS DUTCH CLIENT INTERACTIONS BY 150% Julie Pascault (Courtesy of AHF) Photos Courtesy of AHF

C

OVID-19 in the Netherlands, like everywhere, has challenged health systems and workers to continue providing the same valuable services that clients need and expect. In an effort to boost HIV testing and communication with clients, and particularly those in key populations, AHF Netherlands incorporated the popular WhatsApp application into its HIV testing program, resulting in a 150% increase in new client interactions.

face-to-face time for counseling.

Clients were previously accessing services at AHF Checkpoint facilities via walk-ins and telephone screenings, but by using WhatsApp, AHF was able to connect with 10 new clients per day. The changes allowed for increased scheduled appointments and social distancing in clinics, and more importantly, provided more

A client added that they really liked the option of contacting AHF via WhatsApp because the fear of HIV periodically popped into their mind. After a quick online search, they found the website, could immediately start a chat via WhatsApp and get tested the same day – which relieved the stress they were experiencing for months.

54 | OutClique.com

"During the time of COVID-19, there was a need for more effective ways of communicating with clients – to do that we really had to change up the way our workflow was organized," said Anna Żakowicz, Deputy Bureau Chief and Director of Programs for AHF Europe.

"WhatsApp allowed us to be more responsive to clients and continue providing the services that are very much needed."

Just Be. You only live once, so enjoy it.

Love whoever you want to love. whoever you want to be. happy, present,

Be Be

Be

Just Be.

Wilton Manors • Oakland Park (Coming soon)

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Mention this Outclique ad for 20% off Botox or 10% off any facial treatment

LET’S GET TO WORK Ride the train to get you there!

After months of staying safe at home, ride Tri-Rail and enjoy clean trains, low fares, a frequent schedule covering 18 convenient stations and easy connections.

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THE LEATHER ALMANAC

LEATHER HISTORY

By Cory David, Mr. Eagle Wilton Manors 2020/2021

I

mentioned in my first issue, to inform about history, current events, and stories from the pillars of our community. This issue I chose to explore the history of the leather movement. Here is my overview of our own leatheresque American Graffiti seen through my leatherman’s view.

Photo credit: Sabino Paulicelli Photography

The culture actually started before our bars opened when post WWII late 1940’s motorcycle clubs were forming. The popularity of the motorcycle and their style of clothing attracted the freedoms and masculinity of returning soldiers.

In 1958, The Gold Coast was the first gay leather bar in the country and opened in Chicago. In 1961, the opening of The Tool Box in San Francisco was first made famous in a 1964 Life article entitled “Homosexuality in America.” This Life spread showcased the leather community and it described San Francisco as “the gay capital of America.” This created a movement for gay leathermen to migrate to San Francisco, New York City, and Chicago.

In the 1970’s, the leather culture grew, including Berlin as one of the largest leather communities in the world. Then in 1978, the lesbian leather subculture emerged on the scene with the first BDSM organization in the U.S., followed by the lesbian bike club Dykes on Bikes in 1979 and Leather and Lace in 1980.

In 1984, Folsom Street Fair in San Francisco was also one of the first events to showcase the leather and BDSM community, not as a gay event, but as a diverse and inclusive fetish fair. The culture continues today with Onyx, Centaurs, International Ms Leather, Mama’s Family, and so many more.

The Finnish, being my dominate heritage, bring great pride in mentioning the worldwide icon, known as the most influential artist of gay male erotica, Tom of Finland. Tom’s highly masculinized images of men wearing 68 | OutClique.com

leather and uniforms and his first pieces of lumberjacks, influenced from Finnish mythology, emerged in 1957. His images and art are some of the most collectable to date.

Then there is the godfather, Chuck Renslow.

What can I say? Just grappling with the words that would honor him has me in tears. A singular decision to open a bar in Chicago can create a culture worldwide. Following one's genuine self always prevails. Since 1979, Chuck's legacy lives on with International Mr. Leather (IML) in Chicago, the ethereal leather event of the year. Tony DeBlase, a community leader who co-founded The Leather Archive & Museum with Chuck, designed the leather pride flag.

It’s now left to us, our leather community, and our LGBTQ+ community to carry that torch with pride, acceptance, and, as the heart of the leather pride flag reminds us, LOVE.

Photo Courtesy of Marty Kiar’s office

O

ur office receives numerous calls every year asking us to confirm property tax exemptions on the recent tax bills. BCPA’s office does not set your tax rates or collect property taxes. Florida law requires our office to assess all property based on the market data on January 1 of each year. We are also able to grant tax exemptions to qualified applicants.

Our office does not determine the tax rates or determine how the tax revenue is allocated by the local government. The property tax bills are mailed by the Broward County’s Records, Taxes & Treasury Division. If you have questions regarding the payment of your tax bill, please contact their office at (954) 831-4000 or visit their website at www.Broward.org/RecordsTaxesTreasury.

Where is my 2021 Homestead Exemption?

The tax bill you received this November from the Broward County Tax Collector is for the 2020 tax year. If you purchased your home in 2020 and the previous owners of your new home were entitled to and received Homestead Exemption or any other exemption on January 1, 2020, you may have inherited their exemptions on your 2020 property tax bill. Florida Statutes require these 2020 exemptions be removed for 2021 and the property be reassessed at the 2021 just value. This will often result in an increase in your 2021 property taxes, so it is important you apply for the 2021 Homestead Exemption and any other exemptions for which you may qualify. Your new 2021 Homestead Exemption will be reflected next year on all 2021 property records, notices, and tax bills. Any exemptions

applied to the tax bill are totaled and shown in the third column “Exemptions” on the individual tax bill. If you have any questions regarding your Homestead Exemption or other tax-saving exemptions, please contact our Customer Service Department at (954) 357-6830.

Escrow Adjustments for 2020 Tax Bills

BCPA’s office does not handle anything related to the financing of property. If you make monthly escrow payments for your property taxes, your mortgage or escrow company typically does an escrow analysis after paying your annual tax bill.

Any changes to your monthly payment will be determined and they will notify you. Should you have any questions about this, you should contact your mortgage company directly for assistance.

Quarterly Installment Payments

If you pay your property taxes through Broward County’s quarterly installment plan, any newly approved 2020 exemptions will be applied on the 3rd and 4th installment payment amounts.

Any adjustments for 2020 are made on the final two quarterly 2020 installment payments.

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

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 70 | OutClique.com

PRIDE FORT LAUDERDALE CAR WASH AT DICK'S SERVICE STATION Photos Courtesy of SRL Media

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

Want to submit photos? | Contact us! OutClique@gmail.com 72 | OutClique.com

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

Want to submit photos? | Contact us! OutClique@gmail.com OutClique.com | 73

GETTING A JUMP ON HOLIDAY SHOPPING

By Rod Davis BBB serving Southeast Florida and the Caribbean

I

t is hard to believe the holiday season is already here. To help with your holiday shopping, the Better Business Bureau (BBB) has a few tips and some unique ideas to help you find something unique for the friends and family on your nice list. One reality of shopping in the post COVID-19 world is the rise of phony/scam businesses and longer delivery times even when buying from some mainstream businesses.

BBB recommends that you start earlier this year to avoid late gifts and so that you have the time to find the right gifts and trusted businesses so that your present will arrive on time and as ordered. To begin your process:

• Research any business or store. Look

for a business or store that has been in business for long enough to have a track record you can review. At www.

BBB.org you will find the start date for a business, any complaints, whether

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the business has been BBB Accredited, and reviews from your neighbors about their experience. If you see delays or non-delivery of goods/services you might want to find a better option.

• Be careful about look-alike or sound-

alike businesses. Some phony sites attempt to use the good name of another business to trick consumers into letting down your guard. While it is safe to shop at bestguy.com, you might not want to have your credit card info in the hands of the people behind that website.

• Review purchase and return policies.

While we may think it is the perfect gift, we all guess wrong occasionally.

Make sure your special someone will have the time to return a gift and that the business honors returned items (i.e. again check with BBB and other review sites).

• Compare prices. Just because a

website indicates the product is marked down 200%, it may be a deceptive ploy to make you think you are getting a special deal and compared to other sites it is actually $25 more than the average price.

• Guard your personal information. Shop

with trusted sites and shops that use secure protocols. Websites should use https:// technology and a closed lock should be visible (e.g. displayed to the left of the URL).

• Ask about delivery dates and

guarantees. Make sure the business will deliver the product in time to be part of the holiday celebration.

There are plenty of great gifting ideas to support our local businesses. One of my favorite gifts to receive is any spa related certificate. J Cohen’s Day Spa (www.

JimmyCohensDaySpa.com) offers facials, massages, trims, and everything we need to look our best during the holiday season, or to recover after!

If you are having a hard time finding a creative gift for the family, The Family Gifts Company (www.FamilyGiftsCo.com)

can help you find mugs, pictures, paintings, and unique gifts featuring friends or family members.

As a kid, there was one gift I received every year. My grandmother would give me underwear and $20. If she had bought the underwear from Male Basics (www.

MaleBasics.com) I might have been more excited about her present each year. They have a great selection to help you find the right look for that special someone.

There are always people on our list that leave us puzzled and we don’t know what to buy for them. A gift basket can be a safe and thoughtful gift. Gift Baskets by Design SB, Inc. (www.GByDesignSB.com) offers a wide selection of options from the decadent candies and treats, flowers and fruit and special baskets just for the holidays.

If you have a local friend that enjoys a beer, then maybe a crowler from Gulf Stream Brewing Company (www.GulfStreamBeer. com) is a unique gift that also supports one of our local businesses.

With a little research and shopping from trustworthy businesses you will enjoy a great holiday and avoid the 2020 curse.

Bring on 2021!

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WILTON MANORS ELEMENTARY SCHOOL BUTTERFLY GARDEN ADOPTED BY LOCAL GARDEN CLUB Photos Courtesy of Equality Garden Club

Aerial view of the Butterfly Garden Atrium

O

n Thursday October 8, 2020, the Equality Garden (EGC), which is based in Wilton Manors, Board of Directors passed a resolution to adopt the Butterfly Garden in the large atrium of the Wilton Manors Elementary School.

Previously, the garden club had partnered with the school to create a Butterfly Garden in the atrium in the center of the school. Recently, volunteers from the club cleaned up the garden since maintenance of it had been overlooked during the pandemic shutdown. From this point on, the garden club will maintain the garden with a regular inspection, along with a bi-annual clean up. EGC members, Mario Rios, and Linda Gordon coordinated the work with Cathy Cirillo, the school’s Office Manager.

According to Melissa Holtz, Wilton Manors Elementary School Principal, “There are no

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words to express how thankful we are for the work you did in our garden. It feels like when the children left and we shut down the building in March, that everything around us turned dark and gloomy, but with your hard work and dedication the garden looks alive, bright, and beautiful once again. Just in time to welcome our little ones back to school! You are all so amazing and we appreciate it more than you could ever know.”

The atrium, the general gathering place for the students on recess and lunch, now is a much cleaner, more fun, and an educational place for the students to enjoy.

The many butterfly plants that were planted included: Giant Milkweed, Tropical Milkweed, Panama Rose, Cassia, Firecracker, Fire Bush, and Porterweed, along with herbs: Parsley, Mint, and Lavender.

About Wilton Manors Elementary School Wilton Manors Elementary is the only public school in the Island City of Wilton Manors and the only authorized IBO/PYP (International BaccalaureateÂŽ/Primary Years Programme) School in Broward County.

We have students from over twenty six different countries around the world. Our school promotes high expectations of student achievement.

Learning is facilitated by the collaborative efforts of school faculty and staff members, parents, community members, volunteers, and business partners.

About Equality Garden Club Equality Garden Club is a 501(c)3, non-profit garden club, based in Wilton Manors, FL. The club meets the third Wednesday of the month at 7:00PM in the Wilton Manors Hagen Park Community Center, providing world-class speakers to educate and entertain the membership. Currently the Club is providing these as virtual meetings via Zoom. Additionally the club hosts the popular annual Tropical Plant Fair in March at Wilton Manors Richardson Park, along with providing grants to local gardening related projects and organizations.

Equality Garden Club members volunteers.

From Left to right: Marjory Meechan, Mario Rios, Josie Smith Malave, Carl Shearer, Linda Gordon, Angel Giraldo Rodriguez, Helen Smylie

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TOM PENCE AND ALAIN LECUSAY “What Makes Us Clique” Veterans Day Special Written and photographed by Andy Armano | www.AndyArmano.com 84 | OutClique.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 strengths.

OutClique.com | 85

In this Veterans’ Day special edition of “What Makes Us Clique” we focus on two individuals for whom service to others is a way of life.

These devoted souls are driven to improve the world, and we’re all better off for their efforts. Tom and Alain, friends and roommates who share a common trait of lifelong service, both have served in the military. Tom founded A Celebration of Friends, a social group of older gay men and their admirers. Alain volunteers tirelessly to the organization as well. They both sat down with us to discuss their service to our country and to the very special community of men of a certain age.

Andy Armano: Since we’re celebrating Veteran’s Day this month, I want to welcome both of you and thank you for your service. I want to start with your military service. Could you talk a bit about your service?

Tom Pence: I entered the Marine Corps in 1972, right out of high school. My MOS was a 7041, a job description which was Aviation Operations.

I worked flight clearance for stat reporting. I was overseas for Operation Babylift and the evacuation. I got out as an E5 in 1976. Being in the Marine Corps was fine. What we were doing then, pulling out of Vietnam was not as good an experience, and war is not a good experience. I don't want to go into any further detail if that’s okay. I don't like to talk about myself, as you can well tell.

AA

I completely understand, and we appreciate your service. Alain, tell us a little about your service?

Alain Lecusay: Well, I was born in Cuba. I came to this country in 1970 when I was ten years old, and now I'm 63. I joined the Marine Corps in 1979 after I got out of high school. I went to Parris Island and from there on I was mainly on the West Coast, in California, and went to the Pacific. I stayed in the Marine Corps for 23 years and eight months. I retired as a Master Sergeant E8. My job title was logistics, which is supply, purchasing, and contracting,

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bookkeeping. So, I've never been to war. I've just been a desk jockey. We order everything and anything that’s needed.

AA

You both carry a strong spirit of service. Tom, how did that inform your decision to start A Celebration of Friends?

TP

Mature men are getting more popular now because there are so many of us, but back in the day, 20 years ago, when a guy put a little bit of age on, he had no place to go and nothing to do. I have always been an admirer of mature men all my life. Instead of going to the center of the crowd, I'd go seek out the older men there. And, for a large part, the gay community usually centers around the young and beautiful. A Celebration of Friends was my way of giving to the community and creating something of value for others. I formed A Celebration of Friends in 2002. In nearly 20 years, we've raised just under a quarter of a million dollars that we've given to charities, mainly gay charities. We raise funds by having celebrations and conventions every year.

AA TP

How did you and Alain come to work together on this project?

When I first came here to Fort Lauderdale and tried to get my board together for A Celebration of Friends, I probably went through 150 people. And out of all the people there, Alain was probably the one that if he told me he was going to do something, he did it. He was also the only one satisfied with the pay, which paid nothing as a non-profit. I don't make a salary. He doesn't make a salary.

It's a lot of work. God bless it, it's hard work keeping any group happy, but put old men in this group – all those cranky guys set in their ways – and then add the gayness and drama and, well, I think it's more exciting.

AA

What is A Celebration of Friends up to these days? I’m sure the pandemic has impacted your live events.

TP

Our celebration this year was going to be in June, down in Key West, Florida, but we had to cancel it. We were running a weekly coffee klatch for people that couldn't get out and didn't have anything else to do Saturday mornings. The virus stopped that. After three months, my people were all going crazy. They said, "Tom, Tom, stop this. We’ve got to see each other. We've got to do something!" So, I heard about Zoom. I started a weekly Saturday morning virtual meeting for mature men and their admirers, and we've got people now from all over the world. We've got people coming in from China, from Scotland, from England, from Canada, the West Coast, and Belgium.

AA TP

How has that been going?

Great. We have men joining us from as far away as France and Japan. We have a new member who is Hindu and from India. This is the first place he can go where he can speak openly. It's really a wonderful experience listening to these guys.

AA

I know things are different now during the pandemic, but what has been the most rewarding part of your work with the group, Alain?

AL

Meeting so many people. I keep the database and run the registration desk, so I have the chance to really meet and get to know a lot of people. I get to see most of them every year when they come to the conventions. It's like a big family because you see them every year. That's rewarding.

AA

A lot has changed in the years since you founded the group. Has that been evident in your experience?

TP

Yeah, we have come so far with acceptance in this country. I was working for the city, and I lost my job because somebody saw me walking across Orange Blossom Trail going to the Parliament House.

Friday night, somebody saw me, so by Monday, word was out, and by Tuesday, I didn't have a job.

Fast forward to when A Celebration of Friends went to Orlando. The mayor wrote us a very nice letter saying that he was proud of everybody who was there. They wanted to make it known that Orlando is gay friendly and proud of it. After working for the city that was so afraid of gays 30 years ago, to see how friendly it had become is quite the accomplishment.

AA

It's vital in our community as we grow older to have ways not to be isolated.

The gay community can be kind of rough with ageism. I just think it's remarkable what you do. Thank you for your service to your country and to our community.

TP AL

Thank you.

Thank you.

JAMES TYRCHA “WHAT MAKES US CLIQUE” VETERANS DAY SPECIAL Written and photographed by Andy Armano | www.AndyArmano.com

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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 strengths.

88 | OutClique.com

In honor of Veterans Day, OutClique is highlighting James Tyrcha, a US veteran and a gay transmale. He left the military as a highly decorated soldier and a squad leader.

Subsequently, his leadership earned him the title of Mr. Leather 64Ten 2016. He is now a well-known and respected part of the Wilton Manors community. We touched on courage, service, and finding your true self.

Andy Armano: Since this is November, we are celebrating veterans. Let’s start with my asking you about your military service.

James Tyrcha: I served from '99 to '06. I was in the United States Army Reserve, as part of the military police. I was in for six years. I got out as a specialist, E-4, and I chose to not re-enlist due to my personal circumstances.

AA JT

Would you say your experience in the military was positive?

AA JT

Tell me a little about your transition.

What's your journey been like?

I loved it. I miss it. Being in the military, there's a camaraderie, a brotherhood.

There's structure. It is all embedded in you for the rest of your life. There are times I wish that I was able to stay until my full retirement. If the laws were different and if I had had the same choice as all my military buddies, I would have made a career out of it. But, I didn’t because I am a transgender man. The military will always be a part of who I am and shaped me as the man I am today.

I knew when I was three that I was male. I had every male characteristic of a boy my whole life. Then puberty happened, which was very difficult because prior to that, I was taking my skateboard and going to the Marine Corps recruiting station to hang out with them all day doing push ups and stuff. I couldn't wait to be in the military as a child.

AA

That’s a powerful memory.

JT

I was obsessed with all things military: the position of authority, structure, uniformity. I think that was part of the beginning journey into the leather world as well because it's very similar. I remember back in third grade, looking at a police officer, and looking at his uniform and his stature of this 6'3", big, hot guy. He had the badge and all his leather was shining, and I was like, "I want to be a cop." I didn't understand sexuality versus gender. In high school I said, "Well, you're supposed to like girls," and I started dating a girl in high school who was very masculine. The handful of women I dated throughout my life before transition all looked like men.

One day I Googled “FTM transition.” I started watching the YouTube videos of other people's journeys and stories. I was like, "Jesus, this is in line with everything that's inside of my mind and my body." I kept reading and reading and reading, and I realized, "Okay, I need to do something about this.” I learned the steps I needed to take and I did it right after I got out of the military. I moved into the city, into the Boystown neighborhood of Chicago, and I began exploring my sexuality. I was going to the bathhouses, doing all that stuff, and discovering myself. There is a difference between gender and sexuality, and I could not sexually be with a man as a female body.

It's different. It's a whole different energy and lifestyle.

AA

So, you didn’t have the freedom to begin exploring relations with men until you began transitioning?

JT

Yes. I was always in the gay lifestyle and I always had a desire, but it wasn’t until I was finally comfortable in my body that I could explore my sexuality with men.

AA JT

What was your experience with the gay community after you transitioned?

It was positive. As I transitioned, I was pretty private about it. I wanted people to see me for the man that I was. A lot OutClique.com | 89

of people got to know me and then it started coming out and we started talking. The first time I was at Jackhammer and one of my friends came up to me, he goes, "I have to ask you something." He was quiet about it. "Are you trans?" I said, "Yeah." He responded, "Oh, okay.

All right. Let's have a shot. It's no big deal.�

Then I had other friends that were like, "Wow. Why didn't you tell us sooner, and we'd love you no matter what. We don't see you any different now.� People just got to know me as a person and that's what created a lot of acceptance.

That's what changes people's ideas on trans.

You go out into public and you see a trans person, that is non-passable, and some people say, "Oh, that's a tranny." Okay. Well, I say go say hi to her.

AA JT

Is this when you began your involvement with the leather community?

Yes. Going back to my younger years, I always had an infatuation with uniforms and authoritative looks. I was going to the bars underage in the '90s and I saw these guys that were into their leather. I started just watching 90 | OutClique.com

these guys, how they interacted socially, and that was very sexy and that it was a very welcoming community. These guys will talk with you. These guys will welcome you. They'll make you feel like you're a part of a family.

Everybody in the leather community tends to be very different from the average, circuit, nightclub gay guy. It's just a different lifestyle completely and I felt welcomed with open arms.

As I mentioned, I gradually opened up as a transman. Once I did, I was a go-to person. I brought Buck Angel to Chicago and then brought Paulo Batista to Chicago. We had a night called Trans Male Indulgence that I started at Jackhammer. It was a transgender man night, along with those who admire them and allies.

It was also a space for people to get to know transmen and to maybe ask questions. People naturally have questions and it was a safe space for conversations. I became Mr. Leather64TEN. I competed in International Mr. Leather (IML) as an openly gay trans man and I got heavily involved. My platform is to create acceptance through visibility and it was an amazing journey and it still follows me to this day.

The difficult aspect for transman is that awkward conversation. For a trans man that is transitioned to sit at a bar and be cruised and talk to other guys that are into you, that’s a great thing. Then you have to have that awkward conversation of, “Well, by the way, before you kiss me, I don't want any surprises.” Men like to grab each other and then you could potentially be in a dangerous situation because some people could react.

Has a dangerous situation happened for me?

Knock on wood, no, but it can happen. It does happen. We've had how many trans people murdered this year alone, just because of who they are.

AA

Is it difficult for people to understand the difference between gender and sexuality?

JT

Again, gender and sexuality are two different things. Understanding that, and this is, out of all the questions people ask, they frequently ask "Well, if you're gay or if you're a man and you have that genitalia, well, why didn't you just stay with men," because they don't understand it. My gender has zero to do with my sexuality and my attraction. I can't control who I'm attracted to no matter what.

It's just what I desire and then my gender comes with it. Otherwise, you can't have gay or straight. That’s the only way to describe it. I had to really find who I was.

AA

As a cysgendered person, what do I need to know about respecting

transgendered people?

JT

If you are going to be opening a dialogue, know it is based on the trans person you're meeting. Where I see a lot of the very touchy conversations is with somebody that's transitioning because they are literally in the middle of puberty. It takes a couple years to go through that. There's a difference between transitioning and transitioned. I'm transitioned. People who are transitioning are essentially going through puberty. They're still having the changes. It doesn't happen overnight. It's literally going through puberty, which takes years. It could take anywhere from two to five years for a person to transition to where they're now fully presentable, passable, or however you want to deem that term.

AA JT

How would you summarize where you are in life right now?

There's no way to explain what I’ve been through, but I am happy. Two men together is so different from a man and a woman or a woman and woman together.

The sex, the desire, the way you're touched, the body sense, everything is different. When I was fully doing male with a male, everything just was perfect and I was happy.

AA

You’re such a courageous man and truly inspiring to me that you’ve found wholeness and that happiness touches me deeply. Thank you for talking with us and sharing your story with OutClique.

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GIVING THANKS WITH A GREAT & FULL HEART

By Rev. Patrick Rogers, MDiv.

S

tudies have consistently found that gratitude and positive emotions benefit physical health. Stress is the culprit of so many health issues, yet the simple act of feeling thankful can help combat it.

Being thankful produces several benefits.

Firstly, by being grateful you’ll just be happier.

In a recent study, people who journaled ten items they were thankful for each week were 25% happier than those who did not.

In addition, our relationships improve, we are more resilient, we sleep better, and we are more satisfied in general. According to another study, happy people live an average of ten years longer than pessimists and have a 77% lower risk of heart disease.

There is a great story in the Bible about King David being grateful. Second Samuel 6:14 says he “danced before the Lord with all his might.” Two verses later, he’s described as “leaping and whirling before the Lord.” His display of thankfulness was so exuberant that his wife chided him for celebrating in a manner unbefitting a king. David refused to let her spoil his thanksgiving. “It was before the Lord,” he explained. “Therefore, I will play music before the Lord. And I will be even more undignified than this, and will be humble in my own sight.”

When is the last time that we felt this exuberant and so filled with gratitude and thanksgiving?

After several months of enduring this COVID-19 pandemic and the isolation, masks,

social distancing, and all the changes to our daily lives, it may be difficult to feel thankful.

Living in a nation so divided politically is a huge stressor. Yet, if we look back over the same last several months and intentionally look for how often goodness has shown up, we can be thankful. God is indeed present and still speaking.

I am thankful to live in a nation where love is standing up against hate. Love is standing up against prejudice, greed, racism, homophobia, transphobia, and more. It may feel that we live in the midst of a battle. Yet, I am grateful that there are so many people who love and who care.

I invite us this Thanksgiving to look back at the last few months and reflect upon where we encountered love and to be grateful for that love. Say a special prayer of thanksgiving for the numerous ways that God’s love manifests itself in our lives. Also when we reflect, we can discern where that love erupted in the midst of our challenges. God is in our midst always.

Happy Thanksgiving!

Rev. Patrick Rogers, MDiv. – Community Activist and Senior Pastor at United Church of Christ Fort Lauderdale Photo Courtesy of Rev. Patrick Rogers, MDiv.

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ANGELS IN WILTON MANORS

By John M. Hayden

H

oly Angels’ pastor, Monsignor Jamie Forsythe, has the perfect mantra for 2020: “I believe whenever there’s a crisis, God brings out opportunity.”

While many of us are just trying to keep our heads down and pray for calm, he spent this summer helping his parish deal with crisis and cultivating opportunity, and that meant a new home for the church. They moved into one of the vacancies in Island City Plaza on NE 26th Street, just east of the tracks. The old space on NE 6th Avenue needed a lot of renovations and had very little in the way of parking. Their new space will help them serve the faithful to the fullest, and best of all, it was move-in ready.

Fr. Jamie says it was meant to be because a week after calling the leasing agent, he had the keys. You might think making a move during a pandemic (and hurricane season) would be more trouble than it’s worth, but it was the pandemic that provided the opportunity. The previous tenant decided to move out and go online. “If it had not been for the crisis of the pandemic and the economic slowdown, this space would not have been available,” Fr. Jamie added.

The move brought their small, but tight-knit community together. “It brought our people out.

We had several volunteers that came in and gave them something to do, especially those that were laid off from work. They could come in, they could paint and do all that sorts of stuff. So, it gave them a sense of purpose.” They put up some faux exposed brick, warm lighting, and added a DJ booth. Best of all, the audio/video equipment is helping bring their services to people who aren’t getting back out in crowded places.

“We have anywhere between 8-15 people on a Sunday. It’s down from what it was, but we have a lot of people who (join us) on Facebook who are waiting to come back, waiting for the okay.”

Holy Angels National Catholic Church is known for being a welcoming place, which parishioner 94 | OutClique.com

Glen Jones experienced first hand. “My husband is Catholic and I have always been spiritually minded. I decided to become a catholic at a normal Roman Catholic Church.” He says that was not meant to be. “Unfortunately, they kicked me out of the program after finding out I am gay. At that point I almost lost faith in everything, but I’m not easily the type to give up.”

Glen wasn’t just new to the faith, he was new to America, having recently arrived from the southern Caribbean. And one encounter changed his journey. “I can remember meeting Fr. Jamie at a Christmas function. Hesitant to call him, I found the courage to do so. We spoke, I accepted his invitation to a service, and the rest is history.”

On top of moving, Fr. Jamie started developing a food program. “We were working with a group out of Miami that provided the green boxes of vegetables. For about seven weeks we were getting about 250 boxes a week that were being distributed from here. Their program ended.” He is working to find a new partner to restart the service.

Part of the problem may be pandemic fatigue.

At first, communities came together to help newly unemployed families, at-risk shut-ins, and even pets. Even though resources run thin and time wears you down, Fr. Jamie reminds us that the need is still great. “In some places it keeps getting worse. Some places that thought they’d be reopening are not and now the funds are running out. Here in Wilton Manors we have a great service community, but when bars and restaurants can only operate at 50% at best, they’re not getting their hours.”

The mission continues, and it continues to mean a lot to community members like Glen.

“It gave me a sense of hope and belonging to safely worship and come together in an environment without hiding your true self from anyone and God himself.”

SWAY FREELY

By Eric Noel Roman

A

s I sit and try to come up with a topic to write about, I find it hard to think of something. For the last six months I have been alone. The television is making noise while I sit at my desk, and I take notice that the holiday cheer of togetherness has begun to pop up in commercials. The holiday season has snuck up on us. As I hear the jingles, I am quickly reminded that this time of the year can be a rough time for many.

Since March, many of us have been forced into isolation with no real end in sight.

In addition, this is the time of the year that depression has a tendency to spike and we begin to feel more alone than any other time of the year. Usually, this can be attributed to the stereotypical image of what the holiday season symbolizes. Large families spending countless wonderful hours together creating gingerbread house memories that are supposed to always make us feel warm and cozy.

Over the years, many have experienced the holiday season alone and have learned how to cope by either creating their own traditions, or piecing together an extended family of similar people. This year has an added obstacle to the latter solution.

Many families have closed their doors to guests for the safety of their own kin. A reasonable reaction that has left many to be more isolated than usual.

Just as the flow of ideas began to pour out, I took notice of a lone palm tree just outside of my window. As I lost myself

in the beauty of this flourishing, green, majestic palm swaying in the wind, I also noticed the other trees just a few hundred feet away. A small group of trees that were within close proximity appearing as if they needed each other to grow and flourish with rich foliage. However, this palm waved at me in the wind reminding me that it is great to be standing tall alone. There are no restrictions in any direction. I can flow with the wind in any direction. I rely on no other source to hold up my trunk and branches. I do not have small fragile limbs.

I fan out with large fronds. I create the coconut fruit, a source of rich nutrients.

I have the ability to share my nutritious knowledge freely.

In turn, I have learned during these times of isolation that alone is great. It provides time to improve and learn. Knowing that being alone is great and ignoring the stereotypes of the season can lead down a path of joy. We might not have open doors this year to come together, but we do have a strong tree trunk that will nourish us and keep us standing tall and independent.

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.

96 | OutClique.com

Photos Courtesy of Nicole Halliwell

A QUARANTINE QUEEN CAN’T MASK HER ENTHUSIASM

A

By John M. Hayden

fter months of quarantine, reduced hours, and way too much good parking, Wilton Drive is starting to come alive.

If the heart of “The Drive” is a good cocktail,

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the soul is the entertainment. Now, one of the hardest working girls in the drag scene, Miss Nicole Halliwell, is starting to get back out there, even though she never really went anywhere!

Nicole is a fixture around Wilton Manors, spreading sass and throwing shade everywhere from The Pub, to LeBoy, to Gulf Stream Brewing Company. She talked with me about everything from her family’s history in the entertainment industry, to creating her unique level of fabulousness, to finding a platform in a pandemic.

With bars closed and stages empty, Nicole went online. To keep in contact with her fans, she joined up with other local queens and created www.QuarantineQueens.net. “I don’t know how I’ve done it, but I’ve done it,” she told me. “I jumped in early when things went south, and created Quarantine Queens as a platform for myself and other local Florida entertainers to make some type of income and still connect to our loyal audiences who are used to seeing us every week.” For someone who’s used to playing to a packed house, it was an entirely different experience. “It was an adjustment to try to entertain absolutely nobody but a smartphone and a table full of cosmetics, but thankfully I had plenty of time rehearsing in front of my mirror growing up, so it all worked out.”

Nicole has used the time to work on, not only her act, but her performance. “It’s given me greater time to reflect on how my comedy sounds and to improve my delivery to get laughs out of a digital audience. While ‘LOL’ is gratifying, I do miss the laugh of a crowd. It was such a fulfilling moment to walk back out to a live show after five months of no work.

Let’s hope we can continue to slowly and safely return to our venues.”

If you’ve ever been to one of Nicole’s shows, you’ve probably been bitten by her wit! She’s no one-trick-pony. “My act varies by the demographic I serve. Sometimes there’s young children, sometimes older adults who don’t appreciate crude humor, and sometimes it’s a room full of Gen Z kids at a college.”

Each audience provides unique challenges.

“Being able to adapt is a lot of work. It means constantly staying immersed in popular culture while still being able to hang with the old-school

folks, and being ready to fake it if you have to.”

Nicole runs Bingo over at Gulf Stream Brewing Company, and that is a lot of fun because you never know when the game/show is going to take a turn. “Bingo is a whole different animal than any other show I do. I’m on display for 2 hours by myself and I’ve got to carry a show, a game, and make it look seamless. My Bingo show is a ‘choose your own adventure’ type of situation where I follow the flow of the audience. There’s a lot of gay wit that flies well with straight audiences, but sometimes you just have to be a total [blank] to win everybody over. Who doesn’t love laughing at other people getting roasted? It’s not called ‘Hilariously Offensive Drag Queen Bingo’ for nothing!”

Quick comebacks are a drag queen’s best friend, and she’s been working on hers since childhood. “A lot of my comebacks stem from great practice of firing back at bullies in school, but the real inspiration is growing up on classic comedy and entertainment where intelligence was key. I look up to incredible comedians and actors [like] Joan Rivers, Lily Tomlin, Gilda Radner, Lucille Ball, Phyllis Diller, and Carol Burnett. Sly, smart entertainers who created characters and played them to the hilt. I always say Nicole is a cross between Elvira and Don Rickles. Bad taste never looked so good.” Oh, so very true.

Her website sums her up best with, “... this crossdressing, makeup brush wielding, show stopping, shape shifting, insult slinging drag queen, …” and Nicole stands behind it. “Well, you know me – always modest! People think I’m stuck up because I’m so gorgeous.”

Nicole’s shows are total productions. Hair, makeup, outfits, shoes, music. It’s all her. “My inspiration comes from everywhere. Most of what I wear is created from scratch, but I’m not afraid to cut up something I bought and make it suit me better. I go for bright and colorful, outrageous items, like hot pink leopard fur coats, or giant Spice Girls platform shoes.” She thrives on bright colors. “You’ll often find me in OutClique.com | 105

my favorite color, neon yellow. I love looking like a disgruntled highlighter.” Nicole loves looks that take you back to the ‘80s and ‘90s, and she says songs often inspire her looks.

When it comes to choosing songs, it’s not about hitting a random song on her cellphone.

“Choosing music is a science for me. I constantly display variety in my song choices so I don’t get typecast to one genre of music or become predictable.” It also depends on the show. “For me, the song has to fit my character and also work well with the others in the show, so it doesn’t seem out of place. I do a lot of work to study my venue and tailor my choices to that. From comedy to broadway, punk to rap, I do a little of everything to keep ‘em guessing!”

While Nicole does have some help from a designer friend, she thrives on being selfsufficient. “I’ve learned that relying on others sometimes can give you unwanted results, so I take it upon myself to shoot and retouch my own pics, create my own ads, and mix my own music. When I get a vision for something, I need it to play out exactly as I imagined, so I’d rather beat myself up for it not being right than someone else.”

Being up on stage playing a room for laughs

is more than a way of life for Nicole; it’s in her blood. “I grew up in entertainment! My father was in showbiz long before I was born, so I was brought up in a household that revolved around music and shows 24/7. A stand-up comedian and band leader, my dad's 50 year career in entertainment took his touring show around the country. From headlining in Vegas, to records and television, he’s done it all. So, the bug got me early from seeing an audience react to him and how powerful he was at commanding a room.

Thankfully, I learned everything about my career at a young age from him, including the comedy, so I knew what I was getting myself into!”

Her foray into drag wasn’t planned. In fact, it’s kind of scary. “Getting in drag wasn’t exactly what I had in mind, but it just happened! Long story short, I dressed up as my idol, Elvira, Mistress of the Dark, for work and was invited by a curious customer to appear in costume at his restaurant’s event later that evening.

When I got there, he told everyone the real Elvira was in the house, and I was met with camera flashes and chaos. The switch flipped, and the wheels started turning. At the end of the night he handed me an envelope of cash for my appearance, and I said to myself, ‘I could get used to this!’ And here I am, 15 years later!”

We’re all glad she’s here and coming back.

For more info about her shows, check out her website www.NicoleHalliwell.com.

106 | OutClique.com

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SELLING IT, ONSTAGE AND OFF AN INTERVIEW WITH DAVID PEVSNER

By Gregg Shapiro

T

Gregg Shapiro: Your show Musical Comedy Whore is a “one-man musical.” Do you think this is a theatrical format that may become increasingly popular now that we are living in the age of COVID-19?

David Pevsner: I know as theaters try to figure out how to produce live shows, they are going to become clever and hopefully responsible to protect their audiences. I think it will start small with shows such as mine, and perhaps playwrights will begin to write stuff specifically to be performed in this odd age. I don't know. Whatever the case, I hope theatre comes back. Otherwise, we're going to be home in our underwear watching Zoom performances with boxedin actors and crappy lighting until this nightmare is over.

GS

The filmed stage production of Musical Comedy Whore debuted on VOD and DVD September 2020. Why did you decide to film it for release in this manner?

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Photo Credit: Gabriel Goldberg

alk about truth in advertising. The filmed version David Pevsner’s oneman show, Musical Comedy Whore (Breaking Glass Pictures), is indeed a musical, with original songs written or co-written by Pevsner (with the exception of one number).

It’s a comedy that is sure to have viewers laughing out loud on multiple occasions. As for the “whore” part, Pevsner goes into great detail about his sexual exploits, including his time as a male escort. Combine that with Pevsner hooking while he was also hoofing on Broadway, and there you have it, straight, so to speak, from the source.

DP

I had always wanted to film it. I thought it was something that had not been done a lot on film, a one-man musical, plus I liked the idea that people could watch while, as Barbra Streisand says, “I'm taking a bath at home.” When I was doing the show in Chicago, a friend brought a guy named Patrick Schaller to the show and afterwards he asked if I'd ever thought of filming it. Bingo! So, we finally put together an evening in Burbank at the Colony Theatre and shot it. When it was finished, we were hoping to get it on the festival circuit, and we had our first screening in NY … and then COVID-19 reared it's very ugly head. Festivals were not going to happen the way we all hoped.

Rather than wait a year, I asked Patrick and his partner Clay Ebert to seek out distribution, and sure enough we got it through Breaking Glass Pictures. I will miss the fun and camaraderie of the festivals, but it's more important to me that it gets out there for people to watch and enjoy.

GS

The songs “What’s It Like To Be You,” “The Best Part,” “The Book of Lust,”

“The Naked Maid,” and “I Gotta Give It Up To Love” appeared on your 2015 album Most Versatile.

Was Musical Comedy Whore in the works at that time or did the songs come first and were then worked into Musical Comedy Whore?

DP

Actually, the story came first. I wrote a screenplay called Dog Days that incorporated a lot of the story that's in the show after the events happened to me. I needed to get it down in some way so I chose a film script. I almost got the film made a few times, but it never happened. Then in 2013, I did a benefit reading of my first one man show To Bitter and Back and I had forgotten how much I enjoyed talking and singing my experiences to an audience, telling stories that they related to. I toyed with doing Dog Days in that way, but for years, I did not want to stand in front of an audience, live, and tell them I was a hooker. But, after doing To Bitter… again, I realized I could do it and that it could be relatable and universal, and that I had the songs already. They originally came out of the real life experiences that are part of the story. It was a no brainer to marry it all together. I wrote a couple of songs for the show, rewrote a couple more, and after many readings, it all worked together to tell this very adult, but very sweet, and resonant story.

GS

The sense of shame you experienced regarding your sexuality while you were growing up is one of the more serious aspects of Musical Comedy Whore. Do you think that becoming a “body Nazi” was a result of that?

DP

Absolutely. We all have dealt with shame about sex, especially as gay men. Society may be kinder to us than it was, but it still makes them uncomfortable to think about two guys [doing it]. I held back sexually for years, but when I built myself up, I felt more confident about sex in general. However, I did a 180, not only going from skinny guy to muscle dude, but also negating anyone whose body didn't turn me on sexually. Ugh! I think back on how exclusive I was and I just cringe. It was

my journey, and I think a lot of folks, not just gay men, identify. I've been on both sides, the desirer and the desired, and it certainly felt better to not be rejected, but in reality it was all pretty hollow. We can be so damaged early on about sex that it manifests in odd ways.

Mine was by becoming a "body Nazi."

GS

As difficult as the relationship was with your ex-boyfriend Cory, it led you to the revelation that your life as an escort allowed you to see beyond men’s bodies and to seeing men differently. Do you think that would have occurred if you hadn’t been confronted by him?

DP

I do. I was open to a guy like him after having not been, so if it wasn't him, it would have been someone else. I was ready for more, something deeper, and that happened because I was asked to get intimate with guys that did not fit my physical ideal, and I found I could truly connect, to look for more than outer beauty, and to redefine what attracted me to a man. Having him challenge me the way he did, having to defend myself and my journey, just made it crystal clear to me how I'd changed and what path I needed to take when it comes to relationships. He was my test and I came out of that whirlwind sadder, but wiser.

GS

If an actor came to you and said they wanted to perform Musical Comedy Whore, would you be open to the idea?

DP

I would definitely be open to that.

I would love it! It is so personal and I would probably want to be sure to at least give notes. I've had stuff of mine performed and watched terrific actors not quite get why things are written the way they are and playing the generalities of the character rather than the layers. It would kill me to watch someone play this guy as just a nice Jewish boy turned sex-crazed hooker. On the other hand, I've seen performers show me remarkable and unexpected stuff in my words that I didn't even know I'd written. That's exciting for me.

OutClique.com | 111

LIFE STORY

AN INTERVIEW WITH BRANDEN JAMES

By Gregg Shapiro

I

n 2013, right before I moved from Chicago to Fort Lauderdale, I was fortunate enough to interview singer Branden James, not once, but twice. A gay classical crossover artist, Branden, who also lived in Chicago at the time, was riding high following his success on America’s Got Talent (where he was a finalist on season eight), as well as his performances with various national opera companies, including Chicago’s Lyric Opera.

But Branden’s triumphs were not without trauma, something he goes into detail about in his new memoir Lyrics of My Life (Cleis Press, 2020). Raised in a conservative Christian home in Orange County, California, Branden risked being shunned by his family not only for being gay, but also for being HIV+. A survivor with talent to burn, James is now happily married to fellow musician James Clark, a cellist, with whom he performs as the musical duo Branden & James. I had the pleasure of speaking with James in the fall of 2020 about his book.

Gregg Shapiro: Why was now the right time to write your memoir Lyrics of My Life?

Branden James: I wrote it over the course of spring 2018/summer 2019. The release was delayed once because it (Cleis Press) was taken over by Simon & Schuster, and then a second time because of the current pandemic. After the second delay, I was a bit disheartened, wondering if the project would be shelved. I'm grateful to have released it in this tricky time. Writing a memoir is a labor of love for sure. I honestly never had it in mind that I'd write a book of any kind, but when the opportunity presented itself, I thought, why

112 | OutClique.com

Photo Courtesy of Michael Dar

not? I believe we should always grab new life challenges and experiences that are handed to us.

GS BJ

Did you have a target audience in mind while writing the book?

I didn't really have a target audience (in mind) while writing the book. I knew my story would probably resonate with LGBTQ+ people. I wanted to share this story to help younger people in their own coming out journeys, and those who are closeted and fearful of what might happen to them if they reveal their sexuality or HIV status. From

having been on America's Got Talent, a great deal of my fan base is made up of rural and suburban Christians. I've been blown away at the amount of support I've received from them over the years. Just like music speaks to all of us universally, the stories we share with one another connect us on a deeper level; I truly believe we are much more alike than we are different or divided. I hope that telling this story will help those outside of the LGBTQ+ community understand a little bit more about who we are, and where our hearts are. Reducing stigma around HIV/AIDS is a huge part of what I set out to accomplish when writing the book.

GS

Being that Lyrics of My Life is a memoir and your childhood is a significant part of the book, I was wondering if your parents and siblings have read the book.

BJ

My parents and my sister have read the book. Every person mentioned in it has read the excerpts they are included in.

I had to have written permission from them in order to include them in my memoir. Everyone was generous in spirit and allowed me to include several personal stories about them.

It was difficult for my Mom to read especially; the details in the book aren't the kinds of things we generally discuss with our parents.

She was saddened to know that I'd withheld many truths from her for so many years. It was cathartic to have her read it and understand me better. Now, I feel like the barrier that was holding back our relationship has been broken.

It's beautiful and liberating.

GS

Speaking of family, not everyone is lucky enough to have an accepting and understanding Uncle Ted in their life as you did. What does that relationship mean to you?

BJ

My Uncle Ted is my biggest fan, and has guided me from a young age – encouraging me to pursue my dreams, and get a college education. He has never passed judgment on me. He has always said that what I do is up to me, and God, and that's it.

I wouldn't be here today, as an emotionally stable person, without his unconditional love and acceptance.

GS

As is often the case in a memoir, the book is filled with intimate and personal details. Was there one thing more than any others that was most difficult for you to write about?

BJ

It was difficult to write about things I regret, such as passing HIV onto someone else, or driving recklessly while under the influence of marijuana and prescription pills. These are things I'll probably never forgive myself for, knowing I put other people in harm’s way. I decided before writing the book that being honest about who I am was the best way forward. I'm glad I wrote the book in this way – it has been so freeing to put pen to paper and tell this story that I was afraid to share for so many years.

GS

Thank you for using the word “meatus.” I had to look it up even before I got to the part where you suggested the reader look it up. Writers make a variety of choices when writing. Why did you choose to use the word “meatus?”

BJ

[Laughs] Sometimes I found it less awkward to use scientific terms rather than more common descriptions when writing about personal details, or in this case, an opening leading to the interior of the body.

An exciting note from OutClique:

Branden James is a finalist for the POZ Awards 2020: Best in Literature.

Please visit www.POZ.com/Article/POZ-Awards-2020-Literature and scroll down to "Vote: POZ Awards 2020 / Best in Literature.” Be sure to submit your POZ Awards 2020 votes for your favorite nominees in all the categories by the World AIDS Day deadline of Tuesday, December 1, 2020.

OutClique.com | 113

2020/21 Virtual Season BRING THE CONCERT HALL TO YOUR HOME WITH SIX ALL-NEW MASTERWORKS CONCERTS

Masterworks I | Nov. 21, 2020 AN EVENING OF MOZART FEATURING HUIFANG CHEN, VIOLIN Huifang Chen

Masterworks II | Dec. 5, 2020 V I VA L D I T H E F O U R S E AS O N S | B AC H FEATURING LARA ST. JOHN, VIOLIN

Masterworks III | Jan. 16, 2021 S H O S TA K O V I C H | M E N D E L S S O H N

Lara St. John

FEATURING ZUILL BAILEY, CELLO

Masterworks IV | Feb. 27, 2021 B E E T H OV E N | S T R AV I N S K Y | B AC H

Zuill Bailey

SYM PH O N Y N O. 7, PU LC I N E L L A S U I T E

Masterworks V | March 27, 2021 G I N AS T E R A | R AV E L | E L G A R

FEATURING VARIACIONES CONCERTANTES

Masterworks VI | April 24, 2021

Svetlana Smolina

S H O S TA K O V I C H | TC H A I K O V S K Y

FEATURING SVETLANA SMOLINA , PIANO

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Dates and programming are subject to change.

SOUTH FLORIDA SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA

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

Want to submit photos? | Contact us! OutClique@gmail.com 116 | OutClique.com

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

Want to submit photos? | Contact us! OutClique@gmail.com OutClique.com | 117

Q-MUSIC: AUTUMN 2020 LGBTQ PLAYLIST

By Gregg Shapiro

A

While it lacks the zing of The Violet Flame, Erasure’s best album of the 2010s, The Neon still offers enough glow to make it worth adding to your music library. If you can pop for the limited-edition CD, you won’t be disappointed by the colorful artwork and the 12-page booklet including lyrics.

Bell is also an audible presence on the song “Good At Goodbyes” from Fun City (YSKWN/ MRI Entertainment), the latest full-length by Bright Light Bright Light (aka Rod Thomas).

Bell’s not the only high-profile queer artist enlisted by Bright Light Bright Light. The legendary Justin Vivian Bond can be heard on “Saying Goodbye Is Exhausting” (notice a pattern?). That’s the sensational Jake Shears on “Sensation”, gay rapper Big Dipper on “Love Song” and Sam Sparro on “You Make It So Easy, Don’t You”. A majority of the tracks on the ironically-titled Fun City (as many of the songs are about breakups), are geared towards club play and dancing, therefore it’s not all that surprising that original Madonna backing vocalists Donna DeLory and Niki Haris can be heard on the banger “This Was My House.”

Recorded in late 2016, but not released until 2020, Nobody Cries Today (www.

118 | OutClique.com

Photo Courtesy of Mute Records

ndy Bell, of Erasure, is the grand dame of this playlist. The vocal half of the electronic dance-pop duo (alongside the quieter multiinstrumentalist Vince Clarke) now in its 35th year, the unabashedly gay Bell can still stir up all the feels with his powerful and emotive voice.

The Neon (Mute), the twosome’s 18th album, arrives a few years after the politically-influenced World Be Gone (and its orchestrally reimagined follow-up World Beyond), feels more personal, especially on songs such as “Nerves of Steel,” “Tower of Love,” “No Point in Tripping,” “Careful What I Try to Do” and the ballad “New Horizons.”

MattLovellMusic.com) the brilliant debut by Southern gay singer/songwriter Matt Lovell was well worth the wait. The reason for the delay? In early 2017, Lovell was carjacked and shot in the chest at point-blank range.

Fortunately, he was able to get help, but he spent the next few years recovering from PTSD. Thankfully, Lovell has released this stunning album and we are all the better for it. In possession of a powerful and expressive set of pipes, Lovell delivers a set of original, soulful and country-influenced tunes that are worthy of repeated listens. Knockout tracks include “90 Proof,” “Be Free,” “Alligator Lily,” “The Way That It Was,” and a pair of duets with Leigh Nash (really?) – “The Gospel” and “Dime Adios.”

A queer concept album or “coming-of-age radio musical,” Postcards From the Rearview Mirror (Ert Records) by multi-hyphenate Sabrina Chap (musician, slam poet, burlesque performer, playwright) features 10 songs interwoven with the spoken messages on nine postcards.

Telling the story of a pair of queer teens who hit the road to escape their oppressive home lives and head for the promise of a new beginning in Los Angeles, the construct of the album allows Chap to draw on her various influences.

slowburntheatre.org

Fireside Gala November 14, 2020 - 7PM

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Media Sponsor:

THE SHOW GOES ON!

Each pass includes access to the livestream performance, plus an additional 72 hours of on-demand viewing of a video, available beginning one hour after each live broadcast ends.

Audience members will be invited to email in questions to be answered during the livestream.

Visit our official website kravis.org/wob Visit kravis.org/healthsafety for our latest guidelines.

VoTe Today THroUGH deCeMber 3* The Galleria at Fort Lauderdale invites you to vote for your favorite man of style. In lieu of a physical event, take part in this online challenge and help a leading man rise to the top. The man of style with the most votes will receive an additional donation for his designated charity and will be announced during a Facebook Live event at 5 p.m. on December 3.

VoTe onLIne aT GaLLerIaMaLL-fL.CoM *Voting ends at noon.

RYAN BUNES

GARY RUDERMAN

Florida Children’s Theatre

Leadership Broward Foundation

BEN SORENSEN

ALAN GOLDSMITH

Children’s Diagnostic & Treatment Center

DAVID KOFSKY

Fort Lauderdale Independence Training Education (FLITE) Center

ALEXANDER STAR

Art and Culture Center/Hollywood

Kids in Distress

NICK MATTHEWS

Broward Public Library Foundation

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