OutClique Magazine October 2020

Volume 4, Issue 11 October 2020

Getting in Tune with

LeNora Jaye Mike Maimone Seraphic Fire

Tom Goss Jack Cole Fort Lauderdale Gay Men's Chorus

Steven O. Evans, Phd

Publisher and Editor in Chief Steven@OutClique.com

Arthur Wood III

Associate Editor Arthur@OutClique.com

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

Connie Evans

Chief Copyeditor and Mother of the Publisher

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.

It’s Not a Sprint

By Steven O. Evans, PhD Photo by Michael Murphy Photographic

Hello, It’s already October. First, Happy Halloween! We are in the home stretch of 2020 and the uncertainty of 2021 is real.

Usually our lives are a sprint. We run from place to place. Text and email push to our phones. Thousands of hours of content to stream to every TV and mobile device. We race to the gym to run on a treadmill. Our days are filled with meetings, to do lists, conference calls, and many other tasks.

But, time is moving at a rate unlike what we have never experienced before. It has thrown us off balance, as people, companies, cities, and nations. It’s almost as if our perception of the space-time continuum 1 has been put into a mix of pause, slow motion, play, and fast forward.

So, maybe we should see our lives more as a marathon 2. We have to take time to breathe. It’s OK to relax, reflect, turn off the news, and recenter ourselves. Stretch.

Build your mind, body, and soul in a way that will endure the pandemic. Be aware of the other runners. Remember, you’re not running this race alone. Reach out for help when you need it. There are also fans in the stands cheering you on, even when you don’t notice them. Wear the right shoes so you are always ready for whatever journey comes your way. And most importantly, the runners in a marathon can’t usually see the finish line. They can only see the part of the race they are in. Keep your mind on the end, for this too, shall pass. We may only see part now, but endure and we will surface better and greater.

Remember friends, is happiness abounding 3?

Much love and cheer, Steven O. Evans, PhD Publisher & Editor in Chief Coxeter, H. (Aug 1975). Historia Mathematica. 2(3) 289-298.

See also Ephesians 6:10-18.

3 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

HUGO LIVING WITH HIV SINCE 1995 REAL BIKTARVY PATIENT

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

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

Ask your healthcare provider if BIKTARVY is right for you.

Featured patient compensated by Gilead.

Watch Hugo’s story 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, 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

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LENORA JAYE

By Andrew Armano

Cover & Cover Story photos: Photogrpher: Andy Armano | www.AndyArmano.com Make-up: Charisma Adore | Photo Assistant: Savanah MacDonald

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A

bright light in the Wilton Manors gay community, the singer and songwriter LeNora Jaye opens up with OutClique about finding artistic fulfilment in South Florida and the surprises the gay community had in store for her. She has been entertaining crowds at Georgie’s Alibi Monkey Bar since 2012. Prior to COVID-19, she was highlighting the Tuesday Night Motown/Disco/Soul Groove Session, the Sunday night 80s/90s MegaMix Show, and the Jazz Brunch. She was also performing with South Florida Legends as a live tribute performer singing as Ella Fitzgerald, Aretha Franklin, Patti LaBelle, and Chaka Khan. She has released her own original music which can be heard on Spotify, YouTube, and Apple iTunes. Fans can look forward to a safe, socially-distanced return to Geogie’s Alibi on the horizon.

LJ

Andy Armano: You’re a native New Yorker, and you used to live in Atlanta. How did you land in South Florida?

AA

LeNora Jaye: Yes, I am a proud New Yorker. Before moving here, though, I was living in Atlanta and I had already released an independent album and was working with various independent music producers, one of whom lived in Victoria Park. I began performing on cruises and when we were in port here, he took me around and I loved, loved, loved the energy. It reminded me of the vibrancy of the East and West village in New York.

LJ

AA

And your musical journey has really blossomed here and you’ve been able to be a full time artist here.

Yes. I had no idea that would happen. In a very short time here, I accomplished what I had struggled for years to do in Atlanta. There was a lot of serendipity and the universe was on my side.

AA LJ

How did you land your first gig at Georgie’s Alibi?

It was my friend Armand’s coaxing.

One night he took me to Alibi, and he said, “You need to sing here.” And I was just like, “Armand, you're out of your mind.

There's no way on earth that they're hiring me to sing here.” Armand insisted I submit a demo video to the owners. We shot the demo video right in his living room on an HTC phone, with me singing Patti LaBelle and Whitney Houston! The manager of Alibi is Jeff Pinsky and he is kind - he gave me the email addresses of the owners.

What response did you get from Georgie’s Alibi when you sent the demo?

They contacted me immediately to say they wanted me to perform. There were some renovations going on at that time, so it would have to wait a while. One day, Jeff hit me up and said, “LeNora, when can you start a jazz brunch?” And I was like, “Oh my God. Oh my God!” I was so happy, and that's how it started.

AA

You’ve really grown into your role at Geogie’s Alibi and increased your presence since then.

LJ

Yes, I inherited the Sunday night show from Cashetta, the OutClique.com | 13

14 | OutClique.com

wonderful performer who we lost.

Later, I inherited Tuesday night from Deborah Hampton. It has been wonderful to grow, and at the same time it is very important to me to represent soul, jazz, and R&B in the community because incarnations of black music is where my heart lives.

Antonio Edwards also performs at Alibi and he is like my brother. We refer to ourselves as the soul of Wilton Manors.

AA LJ

Had you performed at a gay venue before?

No. I was so happy with how I was embraced. When I started at Alibi, I knew they already had incredible entertainment, but I also knew they didn't have anyone who was doing jazz, soul, and R&B. And that's my niche. I mean, I can sing anything and I was trained in opera.

And, still, I wanted to represent what was not currently being represented at Alibi. And that, for lack of a better expression, was black music, right?

And it just blossomed.

AA

Did it surprise you how you were embraced by the gay community?

LJ

Yes! It is so powerful. I am a cisgendered, straight black woman. I'm just a girl standing and simply singing. And, I get so much love, support, and kindness from the gay community. I have met some of the most wonderful, upright, honest people that I have ever known in my

life. I never imagined I would find myself in this beautiful, accepting, magical world that is Wilton Manors, Florida.

AA

You are such an ally to the LGBTQAI+ community. You really give back.

LJ

I am given so much, so it comes naturally to me.

Like, any time there is a fundraiser I am there. Before moving here, I was just living my life, dealing with what it means to be a black woman in America, which is enough, right? Yet, once I learned what the gay community faces, it added a dimension to it in my battle against ignorance. I had no problem with grabbing my sword and shield.

I tell you again, since being at Alibi, I have been embraced by some of the most awesome people who are lifelong friends, who are like family to me, and who've been nothing but loving and supportive to me. I have been given so much.

AA

You really inspire me.

I really believe in the intersectionality of our communities ─ people of color, women, trans, gay.

As a white cisgendered gay male, how can I be a better ally to people of color?

LJ

I respect that and appreciate that. The biggest thing is to listen. Allow your people of color, women, and trans communities to

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express themselves. Do not create a narrative for them. Listen to them and take their experience and viewpoint as seriously as they take yours because we are all one at the end of the day. We are literally in this together. We have to fight for one another.

AA

Since you were new to the gay culture, were there any surprises?

LJ

The state is starting to open up more.

What are your plans for the near future?

LJ

We have been carefully trying to work things out with Alibi to possibly restart the shows. My whole concern has been for public safety. I wanted to make sure that we could do it safely and responsibly, and the venue is doing their very best to ensure that.

I've been doing online shows, as you mentioned. And, I’m working on original music again.

Many! [Laughs] When I got to South Florida, I was still an indie soul, very much. Very Bohemian. The people at Alibi were like, “Honey we love you, but we need some razzle-dazzle and we need some cleavage, and then need some heels.” I was all for it. I went for it. I ran to TJ Maxx for sparkly dresses and boots.

AA LJ

AA

AA

How has COVID-19 affected you? It must be especially hard on you because your art is about human connection and sharing moments with others.

LJ

The isolation is difficult. I miss the human interaction. I miss the guys making me laugh and telling me new things. I miss my coworkers tremendously. It has definitely made me appreciate how important that is. Earlier this year, Antonio and I were saying to each other, “We need a break!” We were so busy. Antonio recently reminded me of that and said, “But I didn’t mean like this!”

AA

I know you have continued performing and have been successful with online performances.

That's exciting!

I’m excited. Between making cheesy snacks, and watching Netflix, I have been feeling a renewed purpose and perspective.

You are an absolute joy. Thank you for taking the time to talk with OutClique.

LJ

So have you. You’ve been so nice and so kind, and trust me when I tell you, it's not always that way. Just the fact that you're talking with me today and OutClique is interested in what I'm doing is a huge deal for me.

AA

Oh, well, you're the huge deal!

Your art is a huge deal and what you give to the community is a huge deal.

You bring us together. You entertain and lift spirits. Your positive energy just radiates from you! We need so much of what you're giving!

LJ

I am proud and honored to be a part of it.

OutClique.com | 17

JACKIE HUBA AND DRAG OUT THE VOTE

Photo Courtesy of David Heisler

Photo Courtesy of Drag Out the Vote

By Denny Patterson

T

he 2020 presidential election is coming up, so you best be registered and ready to sashay your way to the polls!

Drag Out the Vote, a nonpartisan, nonprofit organization, is on a mission to educate, register, and turn out voters by working with drag artists across the country to promote participation in democracy. With a strong history of activism, drag carries a long and storied history of impact on social justice movements across the United States.

Conceived in 2017, but formally established in 2019, Drag Out the Vote was born out of Jackie Huba’s determination to get the LGBTQ+ and allied communities engaged about voting. In realizing that one in five LGBTQ+ people are not registered to vote, and over 100 million people did not vote in 2016, Huba set out to find a solution. OutClique had the opportunity to chat more with Huba about Drag Out the Vote, how important of an organization it has become, and what more we can do to make people vote.

Denny Patterson: Hi, Jackie! Thank you for taking some time to chat with me about Drag Out the Vote. Can you begin by telling us more about the organization and how it got started?

Jackie Huba: I was never someone who was

18 | OutClique.com

involved with politics. I think I only voted in the presidential election, and that was it. After the 2016 election, I started to learn more about what was going on in our country related to voting. I realized that 100 million people didn’t vote in 2016, which is a massive amount.

Then learning that one in five LGBTQ+ people are not registered to vote, I was amazed. So, I got involved with some local stuff in Austin, Texas in terms of an activist group, then the inspiration for bringing drag artists into this, in 2019, I decided that I wanted to do something bigger in my activism. Like, something on a national scale. Voter registration and getting out the vote were the top things I thought I could work on, but what different twist could I bring to it?

It was really Jaremi (Phi Phi O’Hara) who was the inspiration behind that because in 2017. I worked with him on his big charity benefit for Puerto Rico hurricane relief. The Queens United fundraiser we raised $80,000, and Jaremi brought like 24 Drag Race queens together for a cause, and honestly, that had never really been done before at that scale. So, when I thought about voter registration and getting out the vote, what twist has never been done before, drag artists. Mobilizing drag artists all over the country. Not just Drag Race, but all drag artists helping to get out the vote.

DP

So, we know how Jaremi got involved, but how did Brita Filter and Marti G Cummings become co-chairs?

JH

Our first kickoff event of 2020 was in Minneapolis, so I went to Chad Kampe of Flip Phone Events who did that event with Jaremi. I said, “Chad, I want to do a big Minneapolis event similar to what you and Jaremi worked on.” He was like, “Absolutely.”

So, we conceived this big Drag Out the Vote event in January where we had 18 queens from Drag Race coming and Jaremi was to host. At the last minute, literally two days before, the other co-host had to drop out due to scheduling. I had known Marti, and she was already booked for the event, and we talked and she said she knew Brita Filter. Brita is a good friend, she just got on Season 12, and she’s an activist. Marti said this would be right up her alley, so she texted Brita, and Brita responded, “Yes, get me to the event.” So, she co-hosted with Jaremi, and it was amazing.

Brita said to me she would like to help out in whatever way she can with Drag Out the Vote, so that is how she became a co-chair, and Marti became more involved from that event forward. They both do great jobs.

If you think about it, one year ago, it was me and a website. After talking to Jaremi and he’s like, “Yes, I want to help.

I want to be a part of this,” and this was back in June/July of 2019 where I threw this idea at him. I cannot believe what we have accomplished, and I think a lot of it is because we have a very small, dedicated team who is working really hard. Now, we have over 230 Drag Ambassadors across the country that we have recruited and are a part of our team. We have forged these historic relationships with Secretaries of State who have never worked with drag artists before to get out the vote.

We were on The Daily Show. So many things have happened, it’s been incredible.

DP

Why do you think drag queens and drag artists have such influential platforms?

JH

I think drag has always been political.

You look at Stonewall and trans women of colors who stood up and said, “No more!” and then that was really the beginning of the modern LGBTQ+ rights fight. You know, we have the Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence in San Francisco who are fighting as activists to great treatment for HIV/AIDS. Drag has always had its place in politics, and drag artists are loud. They have a platform. Whether it’s a microphone at

Photo Courtesy of Darin Kamnetz

How beneficial of an organization has Drag Out the Vote been?

Photo Courtesy of Darin Kamnetz

DP

JH

20 | OutClique.com

Photo Courtesy of Darin Kamnetz

Photo Courtesy of Darin Kamnetz

an event, club, or bar, or online with their digital platform, people listen to them. I think for those drag artists who want to get even more political, want to get people to vote, and want to use their platform to help democracy. Those are the kind of folks we love working with.

DP

It is mind boggling to know what over 100 million people did not vote in the 2016 election. Why do you think that is?

JH

That is a great question. I think people sometimes think that their vote doesn’t matter, and you can actually break that down even further because young people, 18-29, are the folks who come out the least in terms of age segments. I think for young people, they think this is something that can be worried about later. Their vote doesn’t matter and it won’t impact them. We also hear that they think it’s hard to vote. A lot of the younger generation is like, why can’t I vote or register on my phone? You can’t register online in all 50 states, there are a lot of states where it is hard to register to vote. So, I think for a lot of people, it depends on what age they are, but for the younger people, we need to educate them on what they need to do.

DP

What more do we need to do to change the perception that your vote does matter? That voting is a privilege and that it is incredibly irresponsible not to vote.

JH

One of the things that people need to understand is that the issues you care about, if you really believe in getting those

22 | OutClique.com

addressed, you need to look for candidates who are going to change those things.

Specifically, for the LGBTQ+ community. We still have issues with equality and violence against trans women, especially women of colors. If you care about those issues, the only way we are going to get them changed is by getting candidates in there who believe in those issues like you do. So, this is our appeal.

We are a nonpartisan organization and we are not going to tell you who to vote for, but we do say if you care about these issues, that’s why you need to get involved. Nothing is going to change unless we make our voices heard and vote in folks who are going to deal with those issues that you care so much about.

DP JH

Will Drag Out the Vote stay active after the November election?

DP JH

Is there anything else you would like to add before we wrap up?

Absolutely. There’s an election every year. It’s not just the presidential. So, yes, we hope to bring drag artists out every single year. This is an ongoing thing. Voting is something we should be doing every single year.

Everyone should register to vote at our website, www.DragOutTheVote2020. org, check your registration, and you should make a plan on how you are going to vote.

Whether requesting an absentee ballot or going to the polls, make sure you have everything you need. Also, know what the hours are for early voting. So, make a plan!

MIKE RUIZ WANTS YOU TO FLEX YOUR VOTE

By Denny Patterson

S

ome of America’s top fitness photographers have joined forces to create a new campaign called “Flex Your Vote” that aims to encourage the LGBTQ+ community and its allies to vote in the upcoming November election.

Ruiz was initially inspired when it came to his attention that many of the American fitness models that he helped make famous were supporting politics that directly undermined his liberties. He reached out to his photographer colleagues in the fitness industry, including Eric Wainwright, Allan Spiers, and Abel Cruz, and they brainstormed on how they could effectuate change. Collectively, they concluded that instead of trying to change one’s mind, they would try to inspire the LGBTQ+ community to register and vote.

In the “Flex Your Vote” campaign, the eight photographers are posting images to their Instagram and Facebook accounts and encouraging fans to repost with the #FlexYourVote. There have already been thousands of shares. OutClique had the opportunity to chat more with Ruiz about the campaign, what more we can do to make people realize that voting is important, and what he thinks will happen if Trump is reelected.

Denny Patterson: Hi, Mike! Thank you for taking some time to chat with me. How are you doing 24 | OutClique.com

Photo Courtesy of Mike Ruiz

Organized by Mike Ruiz, he says it is painfully clear why this is the most important time in our lifetimes to vote. “We are being engulfed by a pandemic, millions are unemployed, and the government is riddled with corruption,” he said. “We need to change the direction of this country, or we are headed towards a dictatorship where we will be stripped of our rights.” during these unprecedented times?

Mike Ruiz: Thank you so much for including me! I am actually holding up remarkably well.

I have been using these strange and isolating times to do a lot of introspection. Also, I have been getting healthier than I have ever been.

With so much time on my hands, I work out two hours a day minimum. The unprecedented circumstances in this country and the world have forced me to think of new ways to function both personally and professionally. It has given me a whole new set of skills that will serve me well in the event of another apocalypse!

DP

That’s great. I am glad you are doing well. Now, can you tell us more about this new campaign you organized called “Flex Your Vote?”

MR

The campaign is targeted to the LGBTQ+ community. I was shocked to find that one in five people in our community is not registered to vote. I felt such urgency to change that, so I reached out to some of my peers to start this campaign. They are all

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amazing fitness photographers, so it made sense to use them as a collective to do a sexy, eye-catching campaign.

DP MR

You believe it will be very beneficial in regards to the upcoming election?

DP MR

Have you always taken an interest in politics?

Personally, I have received dozens of messages on social media saying that the campaign has inspired people to register. That makes it a success in my eyes.

I was born and raised in Canada, so U.S. politics did not really become of interest to me until I realized that policy in this country affected me directly and my participation in it made a difference. Now, my entire life hinges on what happens in politics.

So, I feel a tremendous responsibility to not only vote, but to do what I can to encourage others in our community to do the same.

DP vote?

Why do you think it is such a challenge to get LGBTQ+ and young people to

MR

I think it’s two things. One, people tend to pass the buck. They are lazy and think that the rest of the community will pick up the slack when it comes time to vote.

Two, people feel like their vote is insignificant.

They tell themselves that one vote less will not make a difference. Sadly, when we add up all of those single votes, the total is in the millions.

us. I have a feeling that we will vote in record numbers to avoid another four years of this absurdity. With that said, I take nothing for granted, hence the “Flex Your Vote” campaign.

I think if anyone with any platform at all did their part, the perception will be changed this time around. That is the key, though. Not a single one of us can be complacent right now.

DP MR

Do you recall what was going through your mind when Trump was elected?

I was in genuine disbelief. I worked with Melania a few years ago and witnessed first-hand the adolescent behavior of her husband. As a result, I dismissed him as a viable candidate from the get go, all the way through the election. I guess massive corruption and intervention from foreign powers can get anyone elected. Even someone as painfully incompetent as Trump.

DP

I dread to even ask this, but what do you think will happen to this country if we by chance get four more years of him?

MR

It will not be good. It will be the end of American dominance in the world. We will alienate the rest of the globe, the economy will be stripped, the progress we have made sociologically will be rolled back 50 years, and we will all be driven back into the closet to avoid persecution.

Would you ever run for political office?

DP

DP MR

Before we wrap up, is there anything else you would like to add?

MR

DP MR

What more can we do to change this perception and make people realize that their vote matters? Even more, that voting is a privilege and that it is incredibly irresponsible not to vote.

I think this current administration has been a huge wake up call to all of

I would not. I do not have the stomach for it. I will never stop being political, though!

Make sure you all have an exit plan!

Follow Ruiz on social media to stay up to date with the “Flex Your Vote” campaign, or follow #FlexYourVote.

26 | OutClique.com

Dear Friends and Neighbors: Progress in Wilton Manors has been stalled for years and the pandemic Dear Neighbor, has multiplied our problems. We need proven leaders and fresh ideas.

Campaigning during COVID-19 has made it impossible for us to connect and collaborate in person, but it hasn’t made coming together any less critical.

Throughout the month of September, I will be co-hosting weekly virtual town halls where residents can share their ideas and feedback publicly.

I have invited fellow candidates and community leaders to participate in this online format. You can learn more about the process by visiting WiltonIdeas.com.

As a long-time resident and small business owner, I am committed to improving our future and serving every resident with integrity, respect and pride. I invite you to learn more about me qualifications and experience by visiting my web site at www.ChrisCaputo.com.

If you love Wilton Manors as much as I do, I hope you’ll evaluate each candidates’ plan and vote for candidates who share your vision.

Paid For by Chris Caputo, non-partisan, Candidate for Wilton Manors City Commission.

Sailboat Bend II - Photo courtesy of Scott Strawbridge

Aya Arts Project to Bring Art and Community Engagement to Sailboat Bend Building II

By Niki Lopez | www.WhatsYourElephant.org

A

rtist and social practitioner, Niki Lopez has been tapped by Tam English, CEO of the Housing Authority of the City of Fort Lauderdale (HACFL), to create a call to artists and curate artwork that will be selected as a permanent installation for the Sailboat Bend II building.

The structure is a nine-story affordable housing project for seniors, currently being built by the HACFL and Atlantic Pacific Companies.

Conveniently located in the heart of downtown

28 | OutClique.com

Fort Lauderdale, the apartments are being constructed thanks to a $26.6 million-dollar Bank of America construction loan. “Our goal is to create affordable housing that is good enough for everyone's mother,” says English.

The community arts engagement and acquisition initiative, which Lopez named the “Aya Arts Project,” began in April and is expected to be completed by October. The artwork will be installed at the end of construction which is projected to be December 2020.

Lopez, who is the creator of What’s Your Elephant®, says she’s “honored and excited to play such a significant role in engaging the community and working with local artists to put meaningful work in this building meant for our elders while creating a space to talk about some of the forgotten legacy of Broward.”

What’s Your Elephant® is a movement that uses the arts to create a safe space to address the unspoken.

The Aya Arts Project invites local artists to submit artwork for consideration, in hopes of being part of the permanent installation.

“We’re focussing on marginalized communities and honoring indigenous lands—challenging the artists and community to acknowledge our past, our triumphs, lessons, and paint a connected future,” Lopez says.

Additionally, Lopez will program artist-led artmaking workshops, as well as host a series of virtual community dialogues that bring together artists, historians, and community

partners.

Lopez recently moderated “The Aya Arts Project Presents: Black Legacy of Broward,” a Zoom to Facebook Live chat featuring panelists Emmanuel George of C.R.E.A.T.E., Derrick Davis of Kuumba Davis Arts, artist Chire Regans aka Vantablack, and artist Khaulah Naima Nuruddin, curator of Spady Museum.

Another exciting aspect of the Aya Arts Project will be a documentary-type video of the project from conception to completion, by awardwinning filmmaker Cathleen Dean of Black Cat Media. Dean is the producer/director of short films, Being and Wade in the Water, as well as the producer of the Miami/Ft. Lauderdale 48 Hour Film Project.

According to Lopez, the Aya Arts Project is “more than just a call for art, it’s community engagement, working and collaborating with local artists, educating, story telling, representation, building legacy, and beautifying a building for our elders in the community.”

About Aya Arts Project The Aya Arts Project is a Sailboat Bend II Community Arts Engagement & Acquisition Project curated by Niki Lopez. It is meant to engage the community in artmaking, placemaking, conversation, and art acquisition from local artists for a permanent installation that shares some of the rich history, nature, and culture of Broward County. There are also several collaborations and commissioned art works by local artists specific to this project.

The name “Aya” is an Adinkra symbol which was originally created by the Bono people of Gyaman, an Akan people of Ghana and Ivory Coast. The name and symbol were chosen to connect and pay homage to our past and current culture and resilience. “Aya” also represents endurance and resourcefulness. The symbol is a perfect representation, given the current state of the world.

Courtesy of Aya Arts Project

About Niki Lopez Niki Lopez is an interdisciplinary visual artist, activist, cultural programer and an award-winning graphic designer. Lopez is best known for her vibrant color palette, masks and a collection of works dealing with some of her trauma and healing through the arts which inspired her to create What’s Your Elephant®.

For more information on how you can submit your art, attend one of the virtual community chats, workshops, and follow the Aya Arts Project, visit www.WhatsYourElephant.org/Aya-Arts-Project.

OutClique.com | 29

THE PUB

Photos Courtesy of SRL Media

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THE EAGLE Photos Courtesy of SRL Media

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GEORGIE'S ALIBI MONKEY BAR Photos Courtesy of SRL Media

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KEY WEST OUT AND ABOUT Photos by Larry Blackburn Photography Key West, Florida

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MICHAEL FAIRMAN

Photo by Brian Kaminski

RELEASES OFFICIAL MUSIC VIDEO FOR “OTHER SIDE”

T

he music video for Michael Fairman’s “Other Side” sheds light on some of the biggest social issues of 2020 including the COVID-19 pandemic, the call to stomp out systemic racism, domestic violence, LGBTQ+ equality, and the rights of the disabled. “We are at a critical time,” Michael Fairman contends, “and it was important to me that the video depict these struggles in a way that catches the viewer's attention, yet is empathetic and hopeful in its message.”

In the video, a homeless man is laying on the street with the simple yet heartbreaking message, “I used to be you.” Black Lives Matter protesters march peacefully but assertively.

The rainbow flag waves triumphantly. A soldier, injured in battle, is picked up by servicemen and carried to safety while Michael Fairman sings, “It’s a war I can’t lose.”

Fairman shares, “Days often seem darkest

48 | OutClique.com

before the dawn. In my own life, I have overcome tremendous challenges: childhood bullying, multiple surgeries due to a spinal condition and chronic pain that I still struggle with today, the sudden loss of loved ones, discrimination, and more. I’ve been knocked down many times but through it all, I’ve somehow managed to get back up and fight on.”

It is that reason he chose to include the boxing ring in the music video as the backdrop to the narrative. “I saw it as the perfect analogy for our time.” With it being in a gym that was closed to the public, because of the pandemic, it offered an ideal location to shoot while remaining socially distant, and the setting worked to illustrate the isolation portrayed in the song’s lyrics.

A skeletal crew consisting of one cameraman, one lighting tech, and Michael came together over the early summer to shoot the music

video. Michael took on double duty as performer and director. The only other talent featured in the music video was guitarist Hunter Cohen, and he was filmed alone in the ring. Everyone followed strict CDC protocols, wearing facial masks, and washing hands constantly.

In July, as Los Angeles was finally beginning to relax some of its restrictions, Michael and another cameraman were able to add the exterior footage shot in downtown LA. It enabled them to bring the story to its conclusion with: Michael, a runner, an athlete who is an amputee, and children all running towards something – the other side. Those who watch closely will notice when Michael looks up at the stop lights near the beginning of the video, they’re red. At the end, they are green, ushering him to “go” to the other side, towards a brighter future.

One of his great musical influences was George Michael. His passing, along with all of the exciting new ways to make and market music in the digital era, inspired Michael to give his pop star dreams another chance.

He co-wrote “Other Side” with producer and engineer, Kyle Mangels, and this marks their third collaboration together.

Michael Fairman’s “Other Side” is being distributed independently and is available on Apple Music, Spotify and all major music digital platforms. Follow Michael Fairman on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook and his YouTube Channel.

Photo by Brian Kaminski

Michael Fairman grew up in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Music was his passion and as a teen, he released his first recordings through a small label in Chicago. Once he graduated high school, he moved to Los Angeles and then to New York to pursue a career as a recording artist and songwriter. He performed with a band in rock, pop, and soul clubs, hoping to get signed by a major label. When that didn’t happen, Fairman decided to return to Los Angeles where he began a career in TV Production and entertainment journalism.

OutClique.com | 49

Photo Courtesy of Marty Kiar’s office

AMENDMENTS ON NOVEMBER’S BALLOT FOR PROPERTY OWNERS

I

f approved by Florida voters, Amendment 5 would extend the time frame for property owners to use any portability they may have from two tax years to three tax years. Portability is the difference between a property’s just value and the assessed/Save Our Homes (SOH) value.

This portability amount may be transferred when a property owner moves from their homesteaded property and establishes a new Homestead on another property. Portability allows the owner to transfer or “port” the homestead assessment difference to the new home anywhere in Florida. This portability amount lowers the assessed/SOH value on the new home and helps lower the subsequent property taxes. Currently, the law requires a homeowner to use this homestead benefit within two tax years which is not always a full two calendar years. Our office must look at the status of the property on January 1 of each year, meaning a property owner may not have a full two calendar years to use this important savings. If approved, this amendment would extend the time you may use portability to three tax years. For more information about portability, please visit our website at www.Web.BCPA.net/BCPAClient/#/ PortabilityExemption.

Another amendment on this November’s ballot is Amendment 6. This amendment would provide a homestead tax discount for the surviving spouse of a deceased veteran who had permanent, combat-related disabilities. There

are several exemptions for Florida veterans and all of them transfer to the surviving spouses upon the veteran’s death except this one exemption.

Amendment 6 would allow the surviving spouse to continue receiving the veteran’s exemption.

Broward County Tax Collector’s Office to Mail Tax Bills in November

The Property Appraiser’s Office does not set or collect property taxes. We simply assess property and grant exemptions to qualified individuals. The Broward County Tax Collector’s Office will mail the 2020 property tax bills

by November 1, 2020, along with payment information. If your escrow company requests your tax bill, the Tax Collector will send you a courtesy copy of the bill in mid-November. All property tax bills are posted to their website at www.Broward.County-Taxes.com/Public on November 1. Should you have any questions about the payment of taxes, please contact them at (954) 831-4000.

If my office can ever be of assistance to you with exemption or answer any questions you may have, 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 50 | OutClique.com

THE LEATHER ALMANAC

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

This highly anticipated article has been created to share the evolution of the community and how the leather movement was formed, through the stories of the past, from the pillars of the leather and fetish community, what it means to us, and how it was defined by these founders of love and leather. It will provide aspects from the traditional movements, to the newest thoughts, and how and why they came to be, by visiting moments in time that weren’t as comfortable as we would have wished, to the moments of a new generation and what they believe it means to them. This forum will explore, inform, and showcase some of the most amazing stories from the past, present, and future of the struggles to be heard, the fight against HIV/AIDS, and the freedoms of equality from the ones that have lived it! This may be a new realization for some of the readers or simply monthly updates for the others active in the community.

I am passionate about our community and excited to be a part of the OutClique family.

52 | OutClique.com

With that, I will promise to our community to always keep an open mind and heart. I am here to share the stories of the past, from those that came before me, and the direction of our future from those making an evolutionary change in our community. I hope to hear from you, our readers, of your feedback and always open to new ideas from the community.

Agree or disagree, laugh or frown, be together or apart, this is what an open forum should be. I hope with our readers, there will be more agreement, more laughter, and more together. If there are times that push you to disagree, to frown, or to be apart, know that it is understood, and that’s ok, too. This presents an opportunity for me to learn, as well to provide new perspectives and new ways to contribute further to our lifestyle, to our agreement, and to our together.

Thank you, Cory David Mr. Eagle Wilton Manors

Photo credit: Sabino Paulicelli Photography

I

am introducing my new monthly article with an understanding it comes with a huge responsibility in bringing a definitive view of the leather and fetish community to our readers. It serves to inform everyone of this community in an open forum that can lend different perspectives and new understanding of the lifestyle to our readers. A greater knowledge of the this community brings it to the forefront, allows for more open dialogue, and in turn, a greater appreciation for the passion of those who live it.

This article serves to provide resources from and information to and about our local venues, pillars of the leather community, wear and fashion, local top craftspeople, national and international news, and a shared history directly from the Leather Archives and Museum. It will also include leather community interviews from some of the most influential brothers and sisters from around the world, new title holders, updates leading up to International Mr. Leather (IML), and other competitions.

ASK BBB

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

E

very day new questions are submitted to us at BBB by consumers. Some questions are trying to get information to determine if a business or offer are legitimate, and, if the business and/or product and service will be top quality. Other questions come to us after a purchase and the consumer is trying to manage a not so great outcome.

Since we learn from experience it can be helpful for consumers to learn from situations other consumers have already encountered.

Let’s review a few of the questions coming to BBB recently and what every consumer should learn to avoid or resolve potential problems.

Question from Maggie G:

insurance if I am renting?

The rate will vary based on the coverage, deductible, and the insurer.

1.

Rates:

2.

Deductible: The higher the deductible (i.e. the amount you pay out before insurance coverage begins to pay for the losses) the less costly your coverage will be since you self-insure that initial amount.

3.

Actual Cash Value vs. Replacement Value: If your coverage is based on actual

Do I need building

Hello Maggie. The owner of your building should have insurance on the property.

You should ask the landlord for a copy to know

Answer:

what coverage exists on the property. Some renters will add rental insurance to cover theft of property, but that is a different kind of insurance and for a different purpose. If you decide to obtain rental insurance you should obtain several quotes so you are able to compare some of the key variables:

cash value the amount you will receive to replace a sofa or TV will be reduced

OutClique.com | 61

by the number of years of use a person has from the product (i.e. depreciation).

Replacement value coverage will provide funds to replace the covered item. Since the liability to the insurer is greater for replacement value coverage it will routinely be more expensive.

4.

Like all businesses, some are just better than others. BBB always encourages a consumer to purchase the best value businesses which combine a good price with excellent products, services, and customer support. Always check out a business at www.BBB.org and other sites (e.g.

Google, Yelp) before making a purchase.

The experiences of other customers can help you assess whether the business stands behind their product/services.

Quality/Reputation:

Does anyone have any reviews on Dr. Purita from the Institute of Regenerative Stem Cell treatment in Boca Raton, FL? Does it work or not?

Question from Felicia M:

Answer: It is important to always validate any

advertising claim, but when it comes to health care issues, it is even more important. You may want to consult with your physician to obtain their guidance about any proposed treatment.

Ideally, any business making claims should have data to support claims and for medical claims, there should be valid studies that are conducted in accordance to acceptable procedures. The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) collaborate to enforce advertising of health-related claims. This FTC blog covers some of the key points: www.FTC.gov/NewsEvents/Blogs/Business-Blog/2015/12/5Principles-Help-Keep-Your-Health-ClaimsHealthy.

You should always ask for such studies from any provider. If they do provide studies, ask your medical provider to review them and provide their expertise in evaluating the

claims and their relevance to your situation.

Specific to Stem Cell Treatments, the FTC recently took action against a California based company and you may want to review that action and the guidance provided by the FTC as part of your due diligence (www.FTC. gov/News-Events/Press-Releases/2018/10/ FTC-Stops-Deceptive-Health-Claims-StemCell-Therapy-Clinic). Legitimate businesses should have the documentation to share with you that meets the FTC/FDA standards, and if not, then it is very possible the claims and results may not live up to the standards you are seeking.

Question from Jorge: What information do you

have on Miami Roofing Systems?

BBB has a complete report on Miami Roofing Systems on our website: w w w. B B B . o r g / U S / F L / Mi a m i / P r o f i l e / R o o f i n g - C o n t r a c t o r s / Mi a m i - R o o f i n g Systems-Inc-0633-14000881. The report shares information about the ownership (Javier Martinez), the business start date (10/13/2003), the license number (CCC1330811), the rating (A+), any complaints filed within the last three years (0), any customer reviews, and additional information about the business (website, phone, address, etc.). BBB also reports on BBB Accredited Businesses and business not accredited. Miami Roofing Systems has been BBB Accredited since 2010. BBB has determined that Miami Roofing Systems, Inc. meets BBB accreditation standards, which include a commitment to make a good faith effort to resolve any consumer complaints.

Whenever making a major purchase BBB always recommends getting 3 quotes and consulting multiple sources to help you find the best business to meet your needs.

Answer:

BBB is always available to assist the consumers and businesses in Southeast Florida and the Caribbean. If you need help visit our website www.BBB.org/SEFL or send an email to RDavis@BBBSEFL.org.

OutClique.com | 63

吀 䤀䴀伀吀䠀夀 匀⸀ 䠀 䄀刀吀Ⰰ 䌀倀䄀 䴀 䄀一䄀䜀䤀一䜀 倀 䄀刀吀一䔀刀

㈀㤀㈀㤀 䔀䄀匀吀 䌀伀䴀䴀䔀刀䌀䤀䄀䰀 䈀伀唀䰀䔀嘀䄀刀䐀Ⰰ 倀䔀一吀䠀伀唀匀䔀 䐀 䘀伀刀吀 䰀䄀唀䐀䔀刀䐀䄀䰀䔀Ⰰ 䘀䰀伀刀䤀䐀䄀 ㌀㌀㌀ 㠀

㤀㔀㐀ⴀ㈀ ㈀ⴀ㤀㜀㜀 簀 㤀㔀㐀ⴀ㈀ ㈀ⴀ㤀㜀㜀㜀 䘀䄀堀 吀栀愀爀琀䀀刀㌀䄀挀挀漀甀渀琀椀渀最⸀挀漀洀 簀 眀眀眀⸀刀㌀䄀挀挀漀甀渀琀椀渀最⸀挀漀洀

DRAG BINGO WITH NICOLE HALLIWELL AT GULFSTREAM BREWERY Photos Courtesy of SRL Media

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COMMUNITY FOOD DRIVE Photos Courtesy of SRL Media

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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)

Psst!

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

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

WOUND CARE

T

aking care of a wound is like painting a wall. Both actions require following certain steps and making sure you have the necessary items to do the job properly. In painting, you may need a drop cloth, paint brush or roller, paint pan, and can of paint. Items necessary to care for a wound include clean cloth or bandages, water, soap, tweezers, alcohol, and antibiotic cream or ointment.

Before painting, you need to lay the drop cloth down on the floor, mix the paint, and pour it into the paint pan.

Caring for a wound also involves several steps. Wound care begins with stopping the bleeding, which usually happens after a few minutes. Bleeding helps clean out wounds; but if it does not stop in a short time, apply gentle pressure with gauze. If blood flow continues, seek medical help. Rinse the wound with clean water and clean the area around the wound with soap, if necessary.

Remove any debris, such as splinters, from the wound with tweezers that have been cleaned with alcohol. It is not necessary to use hydrogen peroxide or iodine, which can actually damage sensitive tissue and prevent healing.

After the wound is clean, apply a thin layer of antibiotic ointment or cream to keep the surface moist. Most minor wounds will heal without an antibiotic, but it can help speed the healing process and reduce scarring. Cover the wound with a bandage to keep it clean and prevent bacteria from entering the affected area. Change the dressing on a regular basis or as soon as it gets dirty or wet. After the

wound has started to heal, expose it to air to speed healing.

A couple of tips to help make a painting job have a more professional look are using painter’s tape to achieve a straight edge or applying more than one coat of paint for better coverage. Several hints to help wounds heal include:

•

Leaving scabs alone. They are nature’s way of protecting a wound and will fall off when the time is right.

•

Seeing a doctor if the wound is deep, jagged, or the edges will not stay together after applying special adhesive strips or butterfly tape.

• Seeking medical attention if the wound shows signs of infection, such as redness, warmth, swelling, or drainage.

•

Getting a tetanus shot if the wound is deep or dirty and if it has been more than 10 years since your last shot.

People with diabetes should take special precautions for wound care because their condition can reduce the body’s ability to heal and increase the risk of infection. Diabetics need to tightly control blood glucose and check for cuts or scrapes, especially on their feet. If wounds fail to heal properly, hyperbaric oxygen therapy may be recommended. This treatment involves giving patients high concentrations of oxygen under pressure to increase the oxygen level in the blood and tissues to promote healing.

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

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CUIDADO DE HERIDAS

C

uidar de una herida es como pintar una pared: ambas acciones requieren seguir determinados pasos y asegurarse de contar con los elementos necesarios para hacer un buen trabajo. Para pintar, se necesita un paño, una brocha o un rodillo, una lata de pintura y un recipiente. Para el cuidado de una herida, los elementos necesarios son paños o vendajes limpios, agua, jabón, pinzas, alcohol y crema o ungüento con antibiótico. Antes de comenzar a pintar, se debe colocar el paño sobre el piso, mezclar la pintura y verterla en el recipiente.

Cuidar de una herida también implica varios pasos. El cuidado de la herida comienza con detener la hemorragia, lo que generalmente sucede después de unos minutos. La hemorragia ayuda a limpiar las heridas, pero si no se detiene en poco tiempo, se debe presionar la herida suavemente con una gasa. Si el flujo de sangre continúa, busque atención médica.

Lave la herida con agua limpia y, si es necesario, limpie con jabón la zona que la rodea. Utilice pinzas desinfectadas con alcohol para retirar de la herida cualquier residuo, como astillas.

No es necesario usar peróxido de hidrógeno (agua oxigenada) ni yodo, ya que pueden dañar los tejidos sensibles y evitar la cicatrización.

Después de limpiar la herida, aplique una capa delgada de crema o ungüento con antibiótico para mantener húmeda la superficie. La mayoría de las heridas menores cicatrizan sin necesidad de un antibiótico, pero este puede ayudar a acelerar el proceso de cicatrización y reducir la aparición de cicatrices. Cubra la herida con un vendaje para mantenerla limpia y evitar que las bacterias entren en contacto con el área afectada. Cambie el vendaje con frecuencia o apenas este se ensucie o se moje. Después de que la herida haya comenzado a cicatrizar, puede airearla para acelerar la cicatrización.

Algunos consejos que ayudarán a que un trabajo de pintura tenga una apariencia más profesional incluye usar la cinta de pintor para lograr bordes rectos o aplicar más de una capa de pintura para una mejor cobertura. Entre los consejos para ayudar a la cicatrización de heridas se incluyen: •

No tocar las costras. Es la forma que tiene la naturaleza de proteger una herida y estas se caerán en el momento adecuado.

•

Acudir al médico si la herida es profunda, tiene bordes irregulares o si estos se quiebran después de aplicar tiras adhesivas especiales o vendajes de mariposa.

•

Buscar atención médica si la herida muestra señales de infección, como enrojecimiento, sensación de calor, hinchazón o drenaje.

•

Colocarse la vacuna antitetánica si la herida es profunda o está sucia y si han pasado más de 10 años desde que se le administró la vacuna por última vez.

Las personas con diabetes deben tomar precauciones especiales para tratar la herida porque su afección médica puede reducir la capacidad de cicatrización del organismo e incrementar el riesgo de infección. Las personas diabéticas deben controlar con rigurosidad el nivel de glucosa en sangre y revisar si sufren cortes o rasguños, especialmente en los pies.

Si las heridas no cicatrizan adecuadamente, se puede recomendar la terapia de oxigenación hiperbárica. Este tratamiento consiste en administrar a los pacientes altas concentraciones de oxígeno bajo presión con el fin de incrementar el nivel de oxígeno en la sangre y los tejidos para ayudar a la cicatrización.

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

OutClique.com | 83

FLORIDA MEDICAL CENTER CELEBRATES 2000TH ROBOTIC CASE

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FLORIDA MEDICAL CENTER

Honors Our First Responders on September 11, 2020

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CONSTRUCTIVE SURGERY ASSOCIATES

MALE TO FEMALE:

1

FACE FEMINIZATION: - Reduction of facial bones - Brow Reduction - Rhinoplasty - Cheek Implants - Trachael Shave - Temporal Lift - Hairline Lowering

FEMALE TO MALE:

1

TOP SURGERY: - Mastectomy (all techniques)

CHRISTOPHER SALGADO MD

2

TOP SURGERY: - Breast Augmentation - Breast Augmentation Mastopexy

2

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COMING TO THE RESCUE

By John M. Hayden

Photos Courtesy of Pet Project for Pets

“Would you rescue me when I'm by myself?

When I need your love, if I need your help Would you rescue me?” -One Republic

T

his year, almost everyone has needed to be rescued at some point, physically, financially, or emotionally. When we think of animal rescue, we think about going to the shelter, finding the right animal that matches our vibe, filling out the paperwork, and heading to their new furever home. In a perfect world, a pet can bring us ten to twenty years (or longer) of happy companionship.

But, sometimes the unexpected happens and another rescue is needed.

Every year, thousands of people in Broward and Miami-Dade often become sick, elderly, or face devastating financial crises, and that can threaten their ability to hold their human-animal family together. That’s where The Pet Project comes in. This is a furtastic organization dedicated to keeping pets and their people together forever.

They run a pet food bank, making sure pets get the nutrition they need. It’s not just the four legged friends getting good nourishment.

They also help collect and deliver healthy, nutritious food to the two-legged companions.

Hundreds of Simply Fresh Farmers to Families boxes have been rounded up. From as far away as Bourbon Street Pub and New Orleans House in Key West to Hunters Nightclub in the heart of Wilton Manors, staff members (who are already facing their own challenges these days) take their time to promote the

90 | OutClique.com

giveaways to their friends, collect the food, and set up the giveaways.

The Pet Project also helps organize veterinary care with a traveling van that can come in and provide needed vaccines to keep us with our animal companions. A few years ago they won a grant to buy a box truck so shut-ins with pets can still have some services delivered to their door.

There are also some hidden treasures waiting to be discovered at their thrift shop, Hidden Treasures. Sue Martino, Executive Director of The Pet Project says this is an integral part of the operation, “Hidden Treasures is a thrift store that benefits The Pet Project for Pets, runs completely by volunteers, and 100% of proceeds goes to The Pet Project.” They’re always taking donations, and you never know what you might find when you walk in. Sue told me they couldn’t even sell the craziest item ever donated because it was too big! “A huge crystal chandelier. [It] was so big we could not even hang it up. We donated it to Hunters Nightclub Wilton Manors as a thank you for their continued support.”

All this comes with one goal: keeping pets and people together. Way too often, people feel that surrendering their pet to a shelter is the only way. The Pet Project works with thousands of people so they don’t have to make this tough

choice in tough times. It’s especially heart breaking for their elderly clients where a pet is the only remaining family or friend they have left. If the furry friend outlives their human companion, The Pet Project works to find a new, loving home for them. The amount of thought, compassion, and care that comes from this organization will make your heart smile.

patients whose health made it difficult to take care of themselves and their faithful pets.

After about five years they were able to expand to serve the elderly, diabled, and terminally ill. Eventually, they partnered with the Humane Society to begin providing vouchers for discounts on vaccines and other basic veterinary care.

Sue says it’s a community effort that keeps things running and keeps making The Pet Project a community success story. “The fact that we are serving many groups, pets, seniors, the disabled, terminally ill, and individuals who are out of work due to economic factors. If you are not an animal person maybe you care about seniors or maybe you care about the disabled.

We appeal to many.”

The expanded services and partnerships with other pet-loving foundations helped them keep expanding and start up several fundraisers each year, including A Pet Night Out, Bowl-AThon, A Female Impersonator Extravaganza, a 4th of July BBQ Bash, and more. That was, until COVID-19. Many fundraisers were and are cancelled, and hours are cut back. Between massive job losses and increased sickness, the need is only growing. Luckily, the volunteers are doing what they can to make it work and donations go a long way.

The Pet Project in South Florida was founded in 2002 and primarily worked with HIV/AIDS

The Pet Project (along with Hidden Treasures Thrift Shop) is located at 2200 NW 9th Avenue in Wilton Manors. To see if they can help you or a loved one, or to make a donation, check out their website for updates on hours and services at www.ThePetProjectFL.org.

OUTSHINE FILM FESTIVAL - OPENING NIGHT 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 94 | 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 | 95

TOM GOSS IS HERE FOR THE “NERDY BEAR”

By Denny Patterson

A

NERDY BEAR - Photo Credit: Molly Obrien

n ode to the fuzzy nerd, Tom Goss’s new summer anthem “Nerdy Bear” pays homage to the subset of plussized gay men who enjoy super heroes, playing video games, and wearing cute glasses along with clever graphic tees. A pop track with a big, snappy sound and an infectious melody, listeners will feel like they are sliding into silk sheets. According to Goss, “Nerdy Bear” is authentic to his experience and relays his unique perspective that beauty doesn’t fit a standard mold. “From my experience, they tend to be gentle and warm,” he said. “They want to have a good time, they’re easy to get to know, and, of course, they’re cuddly. To me, that’s a winning combination.” OutClique had the opportunity to chat more with Goss about the track, his love for big boys, and what more the LGBTQ+ community needs to do to embrace body positivity.

Denny Patterson: Hi, Tom! Thank you for taking some time to chat with me about your new summer anthem, “Nerdy Bear.” Can you tell us more about the concept and inspiration?

songs and making very serious videos. It was nice to goof around and have a good time. I have never considered myself much of a basketball player, but it sure looks like I know what I’m doing!

Tom Goss: A friend of mine wrote to me and said that he had a dream that I wrote a song about a shy, nerdy bear. I thought it was a wonderful idea. I had recently joined a Facebook group called “Bears Be Gaming,” and reading the posts in the group were making me very happy. I have always loved nerdy bears, and it was about time someone gave them the love they deserve.

DP TG

Why do you think we need a song like “Nerdy Bear” right now?

DP TG

What do you hope audiences take away from “Nerdy Bear?”

DP

What do you love the most about a nerdy bear?

DP

I cannot wait for people to hear this tune, and the video is hysterical! You even got to show off your basketball skills and pull off some drag. How much fun was it to create this video?

TG

It was so much fun! I have spent the past couple years writing very serious

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2020 is rough! No doubt about that, but we still love what we love, that hasn’t changed. We cannot forget the things that make us smile.

Firstly, I want people to smile. That is important, but more than that, I want people to see how fun, cuddly, and sexy nerdy bears are. Because let’s face it, they are!

TG

My favorite thing about nerdy bears is that they are not afraid to love what they love, even if it’s not what’s “cool.” Being passionate about what you love is, to me, the most desirable trait in a person. I want everyone to live wildly, regardless of what the outside world thinks of that love. What you love is what makes you unique, interesting and attractive. Nerdy bears do that in spades.

DP TG

DP TG DP

DP

Have you always been into bears and plus-size men?

Yes. They are so very beautiful to me.

There is still a lot of fat shaming and negativity in the LGBTQ+ community when it comes to weight. What more can we do to push body positivity?

TG

For me, it means making art where my object of desire is the kind of man I would find attractive, like bears, chubs, cubs, etc. Beauty is learned. We weren’t born thinking only thin people are attractive, we were taught that. Throughout our life, every time we saw a beauty ad, it was a thin person being photographed. Every time we saw a movie with a romantic lead, it was a thin person as the lead. Every object of romantic desire has been a thin person. Our representations of people of size have always been something to be fixed, comic relief, or villains.

Luckily, we can learn to see beauty in a different light. If people start seeing different body shapes being presented beautifully, or in a romantic setting, we will start seeing people of size in a more positive, beautiful, and romantic light. It’s really that simple. The same goes for people of color. Stop presenting beauty as thin and white, and people will stop

seeing beauty as only thin and white.

Have you always had a passion for singing and songwriting?

I grew up as an athlete, and sports will always be my first love, but music has become my life. More than that, music, songwriting specifically, has been instrumental in helping me become an emotionally adjusted human being. I haven’t always been that.

What more do you hope to accomplish with your platform as an openly gay artist and advocate for the bear community?

TG

That’s a good question. I have never thought about it in those terms. I hope to create positive, uplifting, and thoughtprovoking art. I hope to be a good husband and friend. I hope to be happy. I think if I continue to do those things, I will attain my goals.

DP

You were doing a live stream on GROWLr called “Friday Night Live” during Pride month. Are you still doing that?

TG

Not every Friday, but I am still performing live on GROWLr and Facebook. Hope to see you there!

DP TG

Are there any other upcoming projects we should be on the lookout for?

I just directed my first music video for an artist other than myself, “Covet” by Jaake Castro. That was a blast! I hope to do more of that this year. I have spent so much time working for, and talking about myself, it is nice to have the opportunity to help other queer artists find their voice. I am going to be focusing more energy on that in the upcoming year.

To stay up to date with Tom Goss, follow him on social media and at www.TomGossMusic.com. “Nerdy Bear” is now available on all major digital platforms.

The music video is on YouTube.

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Photo Courtesy of Mike Maimone

ISOLATION AND INSPIRATION

An Interview with Gay Singer/Songwriter Mike Maimone

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By Gregg Shapiro

ince the COVID-19 pandemic began to take hold in early 2020, creative people have found a variety of ways to respond to the devastation. Gay singer/songwriter Mike Maimone recorded two solo albums; isolation: 001 and Borrowed Tunes, vol. 1 (both at www.

MikeMaimone.com). isolation: 001 features nine songs that highlight Maimone’s distinctive vocals and exceptional songwriting skills.

Borrowed Tunes, vol. 1 lives up to its title, presenting Maimone’s unique interpretations of songs by Angel Olsen, Robyn, Fiona Apple, Whitney Houston, Regina Spektor, and Neil Young, among others.

Gregg Shapiro: Of the nine songs on Borrowed Tunes, vol. 1, five were written by women. You transform dance tunes such as Robyn’s “Call 102 | OutClique.com

Your Girlfriend” and the Whitney Houston hit “How Will I Know?” into heartbreaking piano and vocal ballads, something that worked well when Calum Scott did it with Robyn’s “Dancing On My Own.” Was that in any way an inspiration for you?

Mike Maimone: While I'm not familiar with that particular artist, I know there is a history of singer/ songwriters transforming upbeat songs into ballads. So, I know I'm not reinventing the wheel on this record. I just felt like I could tell a different story, using the same words and melodies.

GS

I love the way the lyrics to “Call Your Girlfriend” and “How Will I Know?” sound coming out of a man’s mouth, as if they’ve been waiting this whole time to be sung by you. Please say something about

respecting original pronouns.

MM

Those two really change meaning in specific, and admittedly personal, ways for me. The former speaks to the perils of dating a guy who's on the DL (down low).

It might be thrilling at first, but then there's nowhere to go. And you just can't stay in that "this is new and exciting" phase forever.

The latter, to me, is about being into very masculine guys, and not being sure if it could be something more than friendship. Again, thrilling to think about, but terrifying in reality!

I also love how the person Whitney was singing to is a third party. She's asking a friend's opinion. It's personally meaningful because I met my fiancé at an LGBTQ rock show called Bear All. We were both on the bill. Turns out we independently went up to the promoter and asked if the other was really gay before approaching [laughs].

MM

I did not, but I hope she hears my cover someday and that she loves it and we can hang out. I could learn a lot from her.

GS

The songs written by men are not your typical set of cover tunes by any means. George Harrison’s “I Live For You” is the oldest song. What was it chosen?

MM

I just adore that song. Back in Chicago there is a DIY venue called the Red Room. It's like musicians' nirvana.

Such a cool vibe and amazing community of artists who run it and keep it alive. They invited me on a George Harrison tribute and I asked to cover that song. Learning it felt like I was let in on some kind of magic. Some songs have that power. And I realize they're different for everyone of course. But for me, this is one of those magical songs.

GS

GS

MM

MM

Both Fiona Apple and Regina Spektor are pianists, so they are a natural fit for the album, and like the previously mentioned songs, they are complemented by a man’s touch. What do these songs mean to you?

Fiona Apple is my goddess and I worship her records like scripture. Her newest album is unbelievable! I just loved the way “Paper Bag” shines a light on how imperfect a gay relationship can be. A lot of my straight male friends tell me about their relationship problems, and then they'll be like, "Oh, but you wouldn't understand, you date dudes."

My response is that men are generally less emotionally advanced than women, so putting two of us in one relationship can be a recipe for disaster. I think that the way Fiona allows herself to come off as unhinged, and the way she characterizes the man as "just little boy" was so perfect. “Samson” is a really personal song, too. My fiancé is a big strong man who likes snacking in the middle of the night. Except I was the one with long hair when we first met! As a gay Catholic, I also love the lyric that "the Bible didn't mention us, not even once."

GS

Do you know if Angel Olsen has heard your version of “Shut Up Kiss Me” and did you ever cross paths with her while she was living in Chicago?

Every time I hear the U2 song “One” I think about the music video with the bandmembers in drag and the artwork by the late gay artist David Wojnarowicz that U2 used for the single. In other words, it’s U2’s gayest song by far. Is that why you decided to cover it?

No, but now I know I need to look into the story behind this! I always learn something when I chat with you, Gregg [laughs]! Admittedly, I never really got into U2.

But this song has always stood out to me, and it is more relevant than ever. I think that the most famous versions - the original, Johnny Cash, and Mary J. Blige - are incredible, but they all sound powerful. A need for power is part of the problem today. I wanted to focus on the vulnerability and empathy required to truly unite despite our differences.

GS MM

Is there a Borrowed Tunes, vol. 2 in the works?

Yes. It'll have more full-band arrangements, at least a few tracks. I want to do studio recordings of some of the mashups we do live, like “Juicy” + That's Life and Fresh Prince meets Gershwin “Summertime.”

GS

If the original songs on isolation:001 are any indication, isolation during the OutClique.com | 103

Photo Courtesy of Mike Maimone

pandemic has been good for your creativity.

Would you agree?

MM

I would. They say creativity comes from discomfort. And the world just flipped inside out and lit fire. I am positive we will see some of the best art in history come out of 2020 around the world.

GS

If there’s a common denominator to the nine songs, it would be the dark humor – especially on songs such as “Shouldn’t Have Sold My Drum Set” and “We All Gotta Die.” Please comment.

MM

That's kind of just my wheelhouse.

I'm a "if we don't laugh, we'll kill our elderly and eat them" kind of guy. Humanity is capable of insanely horrific acts, both to ourselves and our habitat. We're a virus on the planet, and it's only so long before the Earth gets rid of us and gets back to symbiosis. So, in the meantime, we should try to have a little fun.

GS

Is it just me, or is the album, especially songs such as “yeahyeahOK,” “can’t stand it,” and “Dirty” more experimental than your previous outings?

MM

Definitely. This is the first full album that I've recorded and mixed entirely by myself. Not even any other musicians to track parts. It was just me, my piano, a computer, and whatever I could find in the house for percussion.

I think that when I write for my bands, Mutts or my solo band, I subconsciously am thinking

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about a certain framework. If you're thinking, "this is going to have other humans involved," that will steer you down a certain road. But on this record, I opened a Pro Tools session and started [messing] around with 808s and samples of me banging a pot with a wooden spoon. I never intended for anyone else to get involved. It was a completely different process than any other record I've done. I honestly look forward to getting back to working with bands.

The album cover is real. I started to hate myself after so long laboring over the minutiae of producing and mixing my own record.

GS

Finally, when we spoke earlier, you mentioned the “COVID coaster” that you experienced since the beginning of the year, which included relocating to Nashville, the loss of your dog, a tornado, and the toll it’s taking on your relationship. How are things in your life at present?

MM

Ugh. How are things in anyone's life right now?! My partner and I are surviving. We went to couples’ therapy, and I highly recommend that to anyone. It's been a brutal two years. He lost his sister, his mom, and shortly after we moved, we lost our American Bulldog without warning to cancer (he was Dad #1, I was honored to be Dad #2).

I'm really just trying to be there for him, and it's been humbling to realize that I still have a long way to go in terms of caring for another individual. My side of the family is also coping with a tragic loss, as well as some mental health issues. It sucks for everyone and a lot of people have it way worse, so I can't complain.

Sundays 10:30AM

Sunday Services

United Church of Christ Fort Lauderdale www.UCCFTL.org

10:30AM

Sunday Services

Sunshine Cathedral Service www.Facebook.com/SunshineCathedral

11:00AM

Sunday Mass

5:00PM

Second Life

Holy Angels Catholic Church www.HolyAngelsFL.net Sunshine Cathedral www.Facebook.com/SunshineCathedral

Mondays 8:00PM

Miami Monday

Hilarious Dorothy & Sofia cabaret show www.Facebook.com/MiamiMonday

8:00PM

Bingo Bonanza

Miss Richfield 1981 www.PlayBingoBonanza.com

Tuesdays 2:00PM

Tuesdays at 2

8:30PM

The Circle

Greater Fort Lauderdale LGBT Chamber of Commerce

www.GoGayFortLauderdale.com Live with Nicki Lopez www.Facebook.com/OutClique

Wednesdays 6:00PM

Wednesday Mass

Holy Angels Catholic Church www.HolyAngelsFL.net

6:30PM9:30PM

Jennifer McClain Sings the ABC’s

Tropics www.Facebook.com/Jennifer.McClain.31

7:00PM

Join the Church Family via Zoom

United Church of Christ Fort Lauderdale www.UCCFTL.org

Contact us to get listed! | OutClique@gmail.com

Thursdays 5:30PM

Smooth and Sexy Thursdays

Antonio Edwards www.Facebook.com/MrAntonioEdwards

8:00PM

Wrong Answers Only

Quarantine Queens www.QuarantineQueens.net

10:00PM

After Hours

Quarantine Queens www.QuarantineQueens.net

Saturdays 3:00PM

The WIG

Quarantine Queens www.QuarantineQueens.net

5:30PM

A Musical Journey

Antonio Edwards www.Facebook.com/MrAntonioEdwards

7:00PM

Diva on Demand

Jennifer McClain www.Facebook.com/Jennifer.McClain.31

Upcoming Events South Florida Symphony Orchestra www.SouthFloridaSymphony.org

October 8 6:00PM

Art for the Arts

October 11

The Gypsy Lane Band

www.PompanoBeachArts.org

October 15

Virtual Fall FUN-Raiser

Stonewall National Museum & Archives www.Stonewall-Museum.org

October 16

Over The Rainbow

The Golden Gays NYC www.Facebook.com/TheGoldenGaysNYC

October 25

Open Dialogues

November 8

Seraphic Fire

www.SeraphicFire.org

November 12

Art & Stroll

www.BFABroward.org

9:30PM 7:00PM 7:00PM

4:00PM 6:00PM

Art & Culture Center, Hollywood www.ArtAndCultureCenter.org

Contact us to get listed! | OutClique@gmail.com

PUZZLED?

By Eric Noel Roman

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i! Thank you for stopping by, I am so happy to see you picked up this six billion piece puzzle. Glad you have interest in putting together this world. It will take time, patience, and you will have a hard time finding matching pieces. Have no fear, with enough work the masterpiece will come together.

There are many methods to make this work.

Some like to group by similar colors. I have seen some that share common characteristics stick together. Others might like to construct the outer limits and work their way towards the center. However your approach to this task is up to you. At every turn of a piece there will be some confusion and sometimes seemingly impossible to match anything. In turn, there will be times where pieces just seem to match up easily. Consider those connections special gifts, set them aside and use them as reference for other areas that you might be having trouble figuring out. Now here is a secret, keep an eye out for pieces that come already attached, because those are great ways to begin new sections of the puzzle. Then there will be times where nothing seems to fit. Take a break and come back to the task later.

I have heard that many people, during the journey of constructing this universe, have had trouble getting into a groove and never really seem to make matches. This is where you will hit a wall and feel like giving up.

The pieces giving you a hard time can be

set aside into piles of sections that are confusing, or just impossible to decipher how to make them fit. Eventually, these pieces will begin to connect. It might not be your favorite section, but it is still a part of the big picture. Learn how these sections can connect other sections. Eventually everything will come together and you will be done and have this daunting task conquered.

There have been tales of missing pieces or extra pieces. This is where I fell. I have become the extra piece. I am not discouraged by this outcome. I have used it to make my journey even more special, because somewhere in the universe there is a puzzle missing a piece and I will be able to fill that void.

If you feel like you just do not fit in, or having a hard time making connections, do not give up.

There are always those puzzle pieces that are in the same situation as you and you will find your place. Just keep searching those spaces and make an attempt to make a connection.

If you do not fit, it is ok there is a place for everyone.

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

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ARTSERVE NAMES EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR: Jason Hughes

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Photo Courtesy of ArtServe

rtServe, South Florida’s award-winning arts services organization, has named veteran sales and marketing executive Jason R. Hughes as the non-profit’s new executive director.

Hughes has been professionally and personally involved with ArtServe over the last five years serving as vice-president and president of its board of directors.

He helped shape the ArtServe vision and mission of delivering programs designed to help artists contribute to the economy by both learning to build their businesses and engaging the community to advance arts for social good. Under Hughes’ leadership, ArtServe was named a “2020 Top-Rated Nonprofit” by GreatNonprofits, the foremost provider of user reviews of charities and nonprofits, and also was named 211-Broward Non-Profit of the Year – Arts in 2020.

Now in its 30th year, ArtServe is known as one of the nation’s first arts incubators and has transformed itself into a creative laboratory and a hub for artists committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion. As the COVID-19 crisis grew this year, Hughes worked with the ArtServe staff to pivot to virtual offerings, culminating in the successful “ArtServe Live.”

The series, which incorporates instruction, discussion, and performance art into an online program of events, has exponentially increased the organization’s reach and digital footprint. “Art is an intrinsic element of our

daily lives, from the subtleties of design, to the lavish spectacle of movies; from fine art to the most functional of commercial applications,” Hughes said. “Fostering creativity is an imperative we must incorporate in any forward-looking economic development vision.”

As executive director, Hughes will continue to grow “ArtServe Live’” by blending it into ArtServe’s regular programming. The digital expansion has already provided further opportunities for all types of artists to capitalize on their vast individual talents, thereby broadening the creative industries’ economic development footprint throughout Broward County, South Florida, and beyond.

“ArtServe never stops moving. Our artists never stop creating. Our team never stops working.

The commitment we have to our community is deep and reflective in the support we receive from all walks of life,” he added. “I’m honored to carry forward the mission and service of ArtServe to our community and for our community.”

About ArtServe ArtServe is an award-winning arts incubator that is advancing the arts for social good. ArtServe is accepting donations here or at www.ArtServe.org to help the non-profit continue to support arts activism initiatives promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion. Each year its programs contribute tangibly to the region’s economy, help 2,000 artists sell their work and build businesses, and engage countless citizens who walk through the doors. To do this, they need the community’s help through donations, sponsorships and memberships. Requests and questions about the ArtServe facility or programs can be emailed to Info@ArtServe.org.

110 | OutClique.com

Photos Courtesy of Pierson Grant

THE TONY FINSTROM FUND AT OUR FUND

WILL SUPPORT THE SILVER PALM AWARDS IN PERPETUITY Finstrom’s Extraordinary Love of the Theater Lives on Through His Legacy Gift

O

ur Fund Foundation announced the creation of The Tony Finstrom Fund at Our Fund which will support the Silver Palm Awards in perpetuity.

In keeping with Finstrom’s lifelong love of the theater, he created a personalized legacy gift prior to his passing in late 2018 and entrusted Our Fund Foundation to fulfill his

112 | OutClique.com

final wishes. With his estate plan now settled, Finstrom returns for a final encore to debut The Tony Finstrom Fund at Our Fund, ensuring continuous financial support of the Silver Palm Awards which he co-founded and proudly served as chairman and executive producer for many years.

Finstrom had said of the Silver Palm Awards,

“These awards are for those who've made an outstanding or unique contribution to South Florida theater. There are no nominees, no winners or losers, and no limit to the number of citations given. It's one of the biggest yearly networking parties for our theatre community and, from my point of view, it's so entertaining to watch everyone come together and have a great time, while they celebrate some amazing work.”

“There is much to admire about the way Tony lived his life. He surrounded himself with wonderful people who shared his interest in theatre and culture. Our Fund Foundation is honored that he trusted us to carry on his legacy with the continuation of the Silver Palm Awards. We look forward to bringing his friends together annually for the celebration of South Florida theatre that Tony helped to launch,” said David Jobin, president and CEO of Our Fund Foundation.

His voracious adoration of theater embraced all facets of the craft. He was a prolific screenwriter and playwright who wrote countless plays, full-length works, and short vignettes. He was an arts journalist both professionally and personally who was known for his wit and sense of humor.

"I miss Tony every day. South Florida theater had no bigger fan. He was a great friend and beloved patron to so many people and organizations.

The Silver Palm Awards are his legacy, and we celebrate his memory by keeping them alive," said award-winning playwright Michael McKeever. “Tony loved the South Florida theatre community and he made sure his love would continue after he was gone.”

Finstrom worked backstage in various aspects of production, served on multiple boards for theater companies, and attended and critiqued thousands of performances throughout South Florida and beyond - both a devotee and judge for the Carbonell Awards.

“As he did during his life, Tony wanted to take care of his beloved theater community even after he was gone. It’s fitting, and not at all surprising, that he left a fund to carry on the Silver Palm Awards, and a small piece of himself, with those he loved, and who loved him,” said longtime friend and colleague Matt May. A staunch advocate for regional theater and beloved patron of the arts, Finstrom was a constant fixture and a generous benefactor.

His name was frequently listed in the donors’ list in the playbills of a majority of theaters in South Florida – large institutions, small troupes, struggling theaters. He received numerous honors during his lifetime including the Carbonell’s Charlie Cinnamon Award in 2018 and the South Florida Theatre League’s Remy Pioneer Award in 2018.

Creating a Legacy

Intentional estate planning is especially important in the LGBTQ+ community in which individuals are three to four more times less likely than heterosexuals to have children. As the Stonewall Generation ages, long-term care and estate planning should be addressed. By 2030, there will be an estimated 7 million LGBT people in the United States over 50 years old. About 4.7 million of them will need elder care and services, according to SAGE, a national non-profit organization that has been advocating for and providing services to LGBTQ+ elders for 42 years.

About Our Fund Foundation

Our Fund Foundation’s mission is to secure the LGBTQ+ community’s future by promoting and increasing responsible philanthropy, strengthening community organizations and their leaders, and connecting donors to causes that matter.

Established in 2011, Our Fund Foundation has grown into the third largest LGBTQ+ foundation in the nation. As South Florida’s only LGBTQ+ community foundation, Our Fund promotes a culture of philanthropy by uniting donors with organizations; advancing lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender issues in Broward, Miami-Dade, and Palm Beach counties; and supporting causes within the LGBTQ+ community. To learn more about how Our Fund Foundation can help you establish a legacy plan, please contact Our Fund at DJobin@Our-Fund.org, call (954) 565-1090 or visit www.Our-Fund.org/Ways-To-Give/#Tab-Legacy-Giving.

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WHAT MAKES US CLIQUE

JACK COLE

VOLUNTEER TREASURER FOR THE FORT LAUDERDALE GAY MEN'S CHORUS

By Andrew Armano Photos credit: Andy Armano | www.AndyArmano.com 114 | OutClique.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 strength.

Jack Cole exemplifies service and dedication.

He has served as the volunteer treasurer for the Fort Lauderdale Gay Men’s Chorus since 1996. Managing the financial operations of a non-profit is far more complicated than many might guess, and Jack has diligently supported the operations of the chorus. In addition to his behind-the-scenes work, he sang with the chorus for many years. In spite of physical impairments that make performing impossible, he still tirelessly works behind the scenes to keep the chorus going through the pandemic.

Andy Armano: I want to start by congratulating you on nearly 15 years as the volunteer treasurer for the Fort Lauderdale Gay Men’s Chorus. That is an impressive history of service.

Jack Cole: In 1996, I became the treasurer.

Nobody wanted to do the job, and I've been the treasurer ever since. But I enjoy it. I do grant writing, keep all the financial records from the state of Florida, keep the ledgers, and pay the bills. As a non-profit there are special reports we have to generate and I complete those.

AA JC

That’s a lot of work.

AA JC

You began as a singer with the chorus at first, right?

Yes. The county requires us to have a full-time position. I said, well, that's me, I just don't get paid for it.

I joined 1995 when a friend of mine was the director, and I wanted to OutClique.com | 115

sing. I'd always sung my whole life, high school, college, choir, everything. I love it, so when he asked me to join it was, "Oh yes, for sure."

AA

What has been the most fulfilling thing about being in the chorus as a singer?

JC

You'll see the face on the audience when we sing something really great, and the audience is enjoying it. I love it when they sing along. Our director, Gary Keating, is phenomenal in putting a program together of a variety of music the people know and love. So for me, standing there, and seeing their faces, as they join in, that is wonderful.

AA JC

How have things been since the COVID-19 pandemic?

So, we're still managing. I spent three months trying to find grants and funds so we could pay our bills, and I was successful in getting a loan from the Small Business Administration, which was forgivable if we used it to pay for our director and a couple of us, which we did.

AA

Yeah. When you started with the chorus did you think it was going to be something that was going to be such a constant in your life?

JC

No. Not at all. I had no idea that was going to be 25 years of

AA JC

Wow. How much time did you all dedicate to rehearsals?

singing.

We had rehearsed every Wednesday night for two years, and then an extra rehearsal is added at concert time, Saturday sectionals, and the week of the concert it's Monday, Tuesday, 116 | OutClique.com

Wednesday, Friday, and then the show is Saturday.

AA JC

That's a lot of time.

Yes, but it is worth it. Other than one other member of the board and singer who's retired, everybody else works. My volunteer work is like a full time job. So it is a lot.

AA

Even though you can’t perform any longer, It sounds like it's a good social community for you.

JC

Yep. There are 25 members, and 10 of them have been there as long as I have, so we're all real close friends.

When I need something I can call them up at any time. And the fundraising events, we always get together and do things.

AA

What you just said right there to me is extremely important - having people that you can call on for company and assistance.

JC AA JC

Right. ‌ and being that person for someone else.

I have a best friend, Robert. He and I went through a support group when our partners passed away.

It was done through Broward House. We called each other every day to make sure we're still okay. I have a couple of other friends I've known for a long, long time and we also keep in touch.

AA

To me, I think that's the key to happiness. To be connected with some people, to not be isolated, especially as we grow older, and especially as gay men growing older.

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SERAPHIC FIRE ANNOUNCES

Season S – a 360° Classical Music Experience

Photographer: Southern Land Films

“Vita Brevis, Ars Longa” Compels Patrons to Reflect on the Importance of Art and Music in Their Lives

(Left to Right) Margot Rood, Amanda Crider, Margaret Lias, Charles Wesley Evans, Meredith Ruduski, Steven Soph, Patrick Dupré Quigley, James K. Bass, Steven Bradshaw, Clara Osowski, Brad Diamond, Angela Young Smucker

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n its 19th season led by Founder and Artistic Director Patrick Dupré Quigley, Seraphic Fire has met the live performance challenges of 2020 by designing dynamic multimedia programs that offer stimulating music as well as evocative educational discussions. On the heels of the successful launch of the Seraphic Saturday Podcast in May 2020, the team at Seraphic Fire will further expand its presence for the 2020-21 season, dubbed Season S. “Seraphic Fire has always worked to be on the front edge of trends in our artform while simultaneously honoring the great tradition of classical choral

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performance,” says James K. Bass, Associate Conductor at Seraphic Fire.

“This season will look different, but our technology and programs are going to make participation especially exciting.

We will interact with our audiences in ways we never previously imagined. And, equally important, we are true to our commitment to deliver the highest level of performance.”

“This experiment in music over distance has but one goal: to strengthen our connections as humans through the ephemeral language of music. Each member of the Seraphic Fire family,

from listener to artist, has bravely persevered through isolation. It is our great hope that Season S will offer a respite from this separation and allow all of time to feel those emotions that make us human”, says Quigley.

Scintillating, sensitive, sublime, sensual; there are numerous catalysts for subscribers and participants to feel engaged on every sensory level with Season S. “Vita Brevis, Ars Longa” is the mantra for Season S: Life is short, and the appreciation of art is eternal. With a goal to inspire hope and illuminate life’s opportunities using the beautiful music of the 9th through the 21st century, Season S will feature six multimedia concert programs that use history’s perspective to connect the unusual experiences of 2020 with similar situations from the past. To create a fulfilling community experience, Seraphic Fire will incorporate multiple resources – internet, email, mail, and phone – to satisfy their patrons’ needs for entertainment, relaxation, and personal growth.

“Over the summer, we were thrilled to see the overwhelming support of the Seraphic Saturday Podcast and the

swelling interest in our programming for the upcoming season. We see this interim period as a unique opportunity to explore alternative presentation formats that will inform future program expansion while allowing us to execute outstanding performances – that is what resonates so deeply with our audiences,” says Rhett M. Del Campo, Executive Director of Seraphic Fire.

Seraphic Fire’s first multi-media performance titled Still. Here. and will be hosted by Patrick Dupré Quigley airing November 8, 2020 at 4:00PM EST. It will feature a Renaissance theme expertly performed by 16 Seraphic Fire artists, including an organist, and lutist. December’s theme, aptly entitled Home for the Holidays, will be hosted

by Associate Conductor James K. Bass and performed by 12 artists, streaming on December 20, 2020 at 4:00PM EST. Patrons should expect to see a fine art masterpiece that incorporates not only highly talented singers, but images, dialogue, additional audio, and even mailings designed to provide a robust and stimulating experience. A live Q&A session with the host and selected performers will be a key part of every program throughout Season S.

For more details on Season S passes, performances, and ways to connect with the Seraphic Fire community, follow us at www.Facebook.com/SeraphicFire, www.Instagram.com/Seraphic_Fire, or visit our website at www.SeraphicFire.org.

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BREAD AND A HELPING HAND TO LESOTHO Fiona Ip (Courtesy of AHF) Photos Courtesy of AHF

Clients receive food parcels at an AHF Lesotho food distribution event

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or vulnerable populations, food insecurity and COVID-19 often go hand-in-hand, but it is even more dangerous for people living with HIV, since their adherence to lifesaving medicine often relies on clients’ ability to eat prior to taking their medications.

To help bridge the gap and keep clients current on their antiretrovirals, AHF Lesotho and Premier Foods have teamed up for those most in need with two separate but related initiatives: weekly bread donations to five AHF clinics by the food company and an emergency food distribution event set up by AHF Lesotho that delivered food parcels to 630 clients.

“We are grateful for the Lesotho bakery [Premier Foods] which filled a critical need for our clients, with many facing challenges that increase their vulnerabilities,” said Mapaballo Mile, AHF Lesotho Country Program Manager. “Premier Foods nominated AHF to receive and distribute the bread – over 1,200 loafs – which were 120 | OutClique.com

delivered to our clinics once a week until the lockdown restrictions were lifted.”

In addition to the bread donations, AHF Lesotho organized a food distribution event where clients determined to be most in need were able to safely pick up food parcels. Clients included nursing mothers, adolescent youth, elderly without support, orphans, and female heads of households.

“Food is the first ‘medication’ that clients need before taking their treatment, so we were glad to be able to provide that level of support to clients who had difficulty accessing food during lockdowns,” added AHF Lesotho Medical Director Dr. Patrick Kanyema. “COVID-19 has put a strain on us all, but it is critical that we keep the progress we’ve made in fighting HIV/AIDS. Getting food to our clients during a crisis is just one way to continue that fight.”

AHF has been working in Lesotho since 2013 and currently provides HIV care and treatment to 33,110 registered clients.

OPEN DIALOGUES AT ART AND CULTURE CENTER/HOLLYWOOD

By Jeff Rusnak Photo Courtesy of Art and Culture Center/Hollywood

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ade-in to a medium close-up of Julie Marie Wade, lit in a saturated blackand-white frame reminiscent of a 1940s Hollywood studio drama. “I’d like to have a great story about how I knew exactly who I was for a long time,” Wade begins in her caressing poet’s voice, “that I had this sort of gradual unfolding into myself. But, I think the story turns out to be great in a different way.”

So begins the 20-minute documentary film Open Dialogues: Stories From the LGBTQ Community, with Wade the first of seven Broward County residents who share the triumphs and tribulations of their coming-out stories under the direction of award-winning South Florida filmmaker Freddy Rodriguez.

COVID-19 interrupted the original exhibition dates, though Open Dialogues the exhibition and film returned in August 2020 and is on view through October 25, 2020, at the Center, 1650 Harrison Street in Hollywood, FL. It was an Official Selection of the 2020 OUTshine LGBTQ+ Film Festival and will be screened in November 2020 during the 35th Annual Fort Lauderdale International Film Festival (FLiFF).

The Center and Rodriguez identified a diverse cast that participated in more than five hours of interviews. The insights and experiences of all seven participants were deeply personal while covering such universal themes as love and relationships, friends and family, threats of violence, and religion and spirituality.

Franchesca D’Amore, a transgender member of the Hollywood LGBTQ+ Council, shares overcoming three suicide attempts before coming to a place of self-acceptance.

Wade is an acclaimed author of 11 books

who teaches creative writing at Florida International University. Dan Bassett is Assistant Principal of St. Mark’s Episcopal School and the artistic director of the South Florida Pride Wind Ensemble. A native of Jamaica, Christine Walters is Co-Chair of the South Florida Bisexual+ Network and is completing her course work to become a veterinarian specializing in exotic animals.

Puerto Rico native Omar Morales was a news correspondent for Telemundo and currently works at SunServe in Wilton Manors.

Two long-time Broward residents, Michael Goodman and Gary Keating, provide a generational perspective about Broward’s evolution as a relative LGBTQ+ safe haven.

Goodman is the owner/founder of GPR/ Goodman Public Relations who also performs nationally under the stage name Michael Dean as Cher. Keating is the Director of the Fort Lauderdale Gay Men’s Chorus, which he founded in 1986.

“Open Dialogues is one of those rare projects that truly connect,” Rodriguez says. “It has impacted me, impacted the folks we interviewed, and it impacts our audience in a deep and meaningful way. What more could you ask for from a film?”

Learn more about the Art and Culture Center/Hollywood and the short film Open Dialogues at www.ArtAndCultureCenter.org/Open-Dialogues.

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