Valerie Weber, MD, MS (Dean Emerita, Boonshoft School of Medicine, Wright State University/President, Great Road Leadership)
Becoming Our LGBTQ Best
Ramadan is a month of fasting and prayer for Muslims. Ramadan commemorates Muhammad’s revelation that he would become a messenger of God. Like Easter and Passover, it is a moveable feast occurring at different times each year.
March 5 is Ash Wednesday this year, the first day of Lent. Christians observe Ash Wednesday by being marked with ashes from the previous year’s burned Palm Sunday branches. The Ashes are a reminder of our mortality, but Ash Wednesday begins the Season that leads to Easter’s message of new life and ongoing renewal.
Lent is a 40-day Season that lasts 46 days; that is because Sundays are always a celebration of Resurrection possibilities and are not, therefore, counted as part of Lent. Every Sunday offers a little Easter.
Worship, prayer, study, and generosity are the traditional ways of observing Lent. Some people add fasting (eating less or giving up something enjoyable for a time…I for one give a hard pass to the fasting bit).
Both Ramadan and Lent offer a period of dedication and devotion. We could do that as the LGBTQ community whether we are religious or not. We might set aside time to appreciate our gifts as LGBTQ people and to find ways to support one another more intentionally and consistently. Maybe that’s the real point of Ramadan and Lent: to remind us to be our best.
Bishop Durrell Watkins, D.Min., is the Senior Minister of Sunshine Cathedral in Fort Lauderdale and an Auxiliary Bishop for the Global Justice Institute.
Malta to Naples
Legends of the Mediterranean
July 5-12, 2025
Journey to South Africa
An African Safari Adventure
September 21-30, 2025
“Rhoda Rage joins the sleuthingsisterhood of absolutely fabulous crime solving divas but refuses to do it in sensible shoes and that’s why I love her.”
Christine Pedi, Actor, Performer, and host of Sirius XM’s On Broadway
“Charles Baran’s debut comic murder mystery is outrageous, campy, bawdy and surprisingly endearing. Rhoda Rage is as madcap as Mame and insightful as Miss Marple.”
Charles Busch, author of Psycho Beach Party and The Tale of the Allergist’s Wife
“I adore this book. A glorious exploration of life, death and all that glitters in between in Florida’s gay capital, Wilton Manors.”
Michael McKeever, author of Daniel’s Husband and Mr. Parker
“A super-fun read from cover to cover! I couldn’t put it down!”
Steven Evans, PhD Publisher and Editor in Chief of OutClique Magazine
Photos Courtesy
The Pride Center’s January Founders Circle Reception hosted by Aquaplex
Photos
Infidelity: The Gay Epidemic
Let’s be real—infidelity is one of the hardest things to deal with in a relationship. It leaves you feeling hurt, angry, and completely blindsided. The pain is raw, and navigating it can feel impossible. But trust me, it is possible to get through this in a way that’s healthy for you.
If you decide to stay and work on the relationship (totally your choice, by the way), holding on to resentment won’t get you anywhere. Forgiveness is key—not for them, but for you. That said, forgiving someone doesn’t mean forgetting what happened. It means choosing to let go of the anger that’s holding you back. And yes, trust must be rebuilt, but here’s the truth: most people don’t cheat because they want to hurt their partner. They cheat because they’re struggling with their own issues—feeling unloved, insecure, or just plain lost.
So, how do you deal with this? Here are some tips:
1. Feel Your Feelings: Don’t bottle them up. Cry,
Danny Morales
LGBTQ+ Love & Self-Esteem Coach www.TheCoachDanny.com
scream into a pillow, write it out—do whatever helps you process those emotions.
2. Lean on Your People: Find friends or family you trust who can listen without judgment. Or consider talking to a coach or therapist to help you sort through everything.
3. Take Care of YOU: Set boundaries, take a step back if you need to, and focus on things that make you happy. Self-care isn’t selfish; it’s necessary.
4. Think About Forgiveness: Forgiveness doesn’t mean saying what they did was okay. It means freeing yourself from the weight of anger.
5. Talk It Out: Open, honest communication is a must. If they’re willing to do the work with you, that’s a good start.
Healing takes time, and it’s not easy. But whether you stay or move on, you’ve got this.
Author: Daniel Morales (Self-Esteem & Love Coach) | Photo Courtesy of Dreamstime.com
The Doctor Will “Really See” You Now Holy Cross Health recognized by Equality Florida
By Savannah Whaley
Klifton Fehr, a licensed mental health counselor, once considered Holy Cross Health as only a community partner and a resource to which he could direct patients.
That was until a blood test led to a diagnosis of a pituitary tumor, and he became a patient headed for cranial surgery.
“They were very reaffirming as to not only the care that could be provided, but also the feelings that came up surrounding the anxiety and the immediate shock of everything,” Fehr shared. “Not only did they see me, but they saw my fiancé with tears in his eyes.”
Holy Cross Health is the only business in Broward County to be recently honored by Equality Florida with its Equality Means Business Award.
“Holy Cross has been servicing the LGBTQ community since its inception, and we have a medical group office that's been located right on Wilton Drive since ‘99,” said Kim Saiswick, Holy Cross VP of Community Health and Well-being.
Healthcare professionals at Holy Cross were among the first in Broward to treat individuals diagnosed with GayRelated Immune Deficiency (GRID), Community-Acquired Immunodeficiency (CAID) and Acquired Community Immunodeficiency.
Saiswick has seen changes in the nearly 30 years she has worked with Holy Cross.
Overall, it has really been a testament to the values that we live and breathe because people are very comfortable,
whether it's the colleagues who work here, or the community who stays with us, or visits us, or utilizes our services," she said.
It comes from the top. Holy Cross Health’s Board Chair Rudy Molinet is a member of the LGBTQA+ community. In addition, the not-for-profit is part of the Trinity Health System, which Saiswick said is very committed to continuing its DEI efforts.
Patients are also encouraged to designate their sexual orientation and gender identity on documentation, which allows preferred pronouns to be used in conversations and in medical records.
The staff is trained to respectfully interact with patients and families through virtual classes, a free online educational library, and in-person sessions, including unconscious bias training that is required for all colleagues and board members.
“Both within the Black and Brown community, as well as within the LGBTQA+ community, we’ve been really concerned about how well we're going to be treated when we need to be treated for healthcare concerns,” Fehr said.
He is feeling well following his surgery and his experience with Holy Cross Health.
“It’s imperative to have a space or a place like Holy Cross that's not only providing services to the community but also making it a point to stand in solidarity with the community,” Fehr stressed.
Photo Courtesy of Klifton Fehr
Photo Courtesy of Rudy Molinet
Why
What if the strength of a leader wasn’t measured by how much they could endure, but by their ability to create an environment where vulnerability is valued, and mental health is prioritized?
For years, I believed I was invincible, navigating the demands of leadership with resilience and grit. Burnout? That happened to other people. Not me. I convinced myself that I could manage it all. “I’ve got this,” I thought.
Except I didn’t.
A few years ago, I found myself at a crossroads I never expected. Anxiety, exhaustion, and a growing sense of disconnection were no longer passing moments; they were constant companions. What I thought was simply “stress” turned out to be something much deeper: an unraveling of the foundation I thought was unshakable. Through intense reflection and professional guidance, I realized my approach to success and balance was unsustainable, costing me far more than I had anticipated.
This led me to explore and eventually embrace the concept of life-work harmony. My preference for the term harmony stems from my love of music. I’ve always been drawn to how different elements in a piece of music work together to create something greater than the sum of their parts. Life is no different. Harmony allows for fluidity and alignment, where some days work takes the lead and, on others, family or personal passions come to the forefront.
Lessons in Life-Work Harmony: Key Shifts from WorkLife-Balance for Leaders
Here are the principles I’ve embraced to foster life-work harmony:
1. Focus on What You Can Control
Stoicism teaches us to let go of what’s beyond our influence and to channel our energy into what truly matters—our actions, mindset, and priorities.
2. Lead With Life First
Too often, we structure life around work. Flip the script. Start with your values, passions, and relationships, and let work serve as a support system, not the center of your existence.
3. Build Resilience Through Challenges
Whether it’s through physical activity like a Spartan Sprint, practicing mindfulness, or stepping into discomfort, challenges help us grow. Resilience isn’t built during calm moments—it’s forged in the fire of adversity.
4. Embrace Transparency, Not Perfection
Leadership isn’t about being flawless. It’s about being real. When we share our struggles, we foster trust and create environments where others feel safe to bring their authentic selves to the table.
5. Seek Harmony, Not Equality
Harmony isn’t about dividing your time equally between competing demands; it’s about creating alignment. Some days, work takes precedence. Other days, family or selfcare is the priority. Harmony allows for this fluidity.
A Call to Action: Leading the Way to a StigmaFree Workplace
Mental health isn’t just a personal journey, it’s a leadership responsibility and a business imperative. Today’s workforce, particularly younger generations, expects their employers to prioritize mental health and foster supportive environments. Programs like NAMI’s StigmaFree Workplace initiative equip organizations with the tools to create cultures that prioritize mental health, break stigma, and foster connection.
If my story inspires just one person to step forward and ask for help, it’s worth it. Together, we can create workplaces where authenticity is celebrated, resilience is nurtured, and no one feels alone.
Because asking for help isn’t giving up, it’s refusing to give up.
For more information about NAMI Broward, please visit www.namibroward.org.
Author: Joe Oravecz, Ph.D., CEO, NAMI Broward County | Photo Credits: Daniel Wakefield - Top-Tier Headshots
Not Latino? Latinos Salud is Here for You, Too
By Megan Fitzgerald
Latinos Salud was founded to create a safe space for: gay Latinos to access HIV/STD services specifically in their own language, and from peers who could relate to their experiences as gay men, and often as immigrants to the U.S.
During Latinos Salud's first years, when the agency was only offering condoms and safer sex workshops, their focus on gay Latinos didn’t leave anyone feeling left out. Who couldn't find free condoms in the 2010s?
With the launch of their Wellness Clinic in 2020, Latinos Salud added vital new services that are in high demand throughout the LGBT community. People who couldn’t get an appointment at other clinics for PrEP (the pill that prevents HIV), for vaccines for COVID, MPOX, and
meningitis, or even for HIV care started asking, “Am I allowed to get services there even if I'm not Latino?” Latinos Salud’s reply: of course you are!
This month, Latinos Salud kicked off a campaign to emphasize its inclusive approach. Renowned photographer Dennis Dean (Executive Director of Arts United https://artsunitedflorida.com/) staged a fabulous photo shoot with a half a dozen of Latinos Salud’s patients. No stock photos or airbrushed influencers here. The day’s shoot mirrored the welcoming feeling that community members of all backgrounds experience when they enter the doors at any of Latinos Salud’s four locations.
Matthew, one of the models and a patient, was surprised
when he first learned that PrEP was accessible and free at Latinos Salud. He also recalls the comfort he felt.
“The place is very welcoming. Sam helped me through the whole process. Getting PrEP at Latinos Salud is so easy because you get it right away. There’s a pharmacy right next door where you can pick it up the same day. Any questions you might have, they are more than willing to help you with anything,” he said.
Doug, another model and patient, feels that being on PrEP has been life changing.
“To me, PrEP means freedom and enjoying more of your life,” Doug said.
Latinos Salud provides a safe space for all patients to receive healthcare.
“I don't have insurance, because I'm not a big believer in the health system in this country, but thanks to Latinos Salud I was able to have confidence, get checked every three months and control everything that happens in my system,” said Rodolpho, model and Latinos Salud patient. “And, obviously, thanks to PrEP I protect myself. So, it was very easy to get it, and that's what I liked the most: I don't have insurance, but I feel safe at Latinos Salud.”
Photos by Dennis Dean, Courtesy of Latinos Salud
Author: Megan Fitzgerald, PhD, Associate Professor
Doug
Matthew
Engels
Thomas
Rodolfo
Brian
Thursday, March 20th
3:00-5:00 pm. Spring Into Your Best Shape! Complimentary Bodysculpting Consultations
Melt Stubborn Fat with SculpSure
Build and Tone Muscles with Accufit
Tighten and Firm Skin with RF Microneedling
Genesis All-In-One Body Sculpting Package
Naderkhani Family Foundation Awards Grant to Food for Life Pantry
Care Resource is proud to announce that its Food for Life Food Pantry has been awarded a generous $10,000 grant from the Naderkhani Family Foundation. This funding will significantly enhance the pantry’s ability to provide nutritious meals and vital support to individuals and families experiencing food insecurity in South Florida.
The Food for Life Food Pantry serves as an essential lifeline for many in our community, providing fresh produce, healthy staples, and nutritional resources to those in need. With this grant, the pantry will be able to expand its services, reaching more families during a time when the cost of living and access to healthy food remain critical challenges.
We are incredibly grateful to the Naderkhani Family Foundation for their generosity and their commitment to strengthening our community. This funding will allow us to better address food insecurity, which is a critical component of our holistic approach to health care. — Rafael Jimenez, Director of Social Services at Care Resource
The $10,000 donation reflects the Naderkhani Family Foundation’s dedication to fostering healthier, more resilient communities. This funding will directly impact individuals and families who rely on the pantry for support, ensuring access to high-quality, nutritious food while promoting overall health and well-being.
About the Food for Life Food Pantry
Care Resource’s Food for Life Food Pantry provides fresh and culturally diverse meals to clients facing food insecurity. It is a vital component of Care Resource’s holistic health care services, addressing social determinants of health that directly affect an individual’s overall wellness. For more information, please visit foodforlifenetwork.org.
About the Naderkhani Family Foundation
The Naderkhani Family Foundation empowers communities through charitable giving and partnerships that improve access to essential resources and services. Their support for Care Resource underscores their mission to uplift underserved populations and drive positive change.
SPRING INTO YOUR BEST SHAPE!
with Genesis Health Institute’s Complimentary Bodysculpting Consultations
Baxter Martin: Thanks for taking the time to discuss the upcoming Bodysculpting Event at Genesis Health Institute. Can you tell us what attendees can look forward to on March 20th?
Dr. Cabrera: Absolutely. We’re hosting complimentary 30-minute consultations from 3:00 to 5:00 pm for anyone interested in shaping up for spring. It’s a fantastic opportunity to learn about our three leading treatments— SculpSure, Accufit, and Genius RF Microneedling—at special event pricing.
Baxter Martin: What makes these treatments stand out for body sculpting?
Dr. Cabrera: Each treatment targets a different aspect of body shaping. SculpSure helps melt stubborn fat using laser technology. Accufit builds and tones muscle through targeted energy pulses. Genius RF Microneedling tightens and firms skin by stimulating collagen. Together, they deliver a comprehensive approach to looking and feeling your best.
Baxter Martin: Could you explain the special pricing options?
Dr. Cabrera: Of course. During the event, SculpSure is offered at $2,995 (normally $4,000), Accufit is $2,995 (normally $4,500), and Genius RF Microneedling is $1,995 (normally $2,500). We also have our Complete Genesis All-In-One Body Sculpting Package, which includes all three treatments for just $4,995. That’s a significant discount from regular rates.
Baxter Martin: How many sessions can people expect for each treatment?
Dr. Cabrera: A $500 deposit is required to lock in these prices, and the full payment plus first treatment must be completed by March 31, 2025. Spots are limited, so I encourage anyone interested to book now. We’re excited to help everyone step into spring with confidence!
Baxter Martin: Thank you, Dr. Cabrera, it’s always great chatting with you.
Dr. Cabrera: Likewise. See ya on March 20th.
Dr. Cabrera: SculpSure involves two treatments, spaced twelve weeks apart, with full results about six months after the first treatment. Accufit requires seven sessions: four in the first two weeks, then one per month for three months, achieving full results four months after starting. Genius RF Microneedling consists of three sessions, each four weeks apart, with optimal results in about four months.
Baxter Martin: Is there anything else readers need to know?
My Hollywood Pride
My Hollywood Pride
4,217,940 Minutes | 4,000,000 sheets paper | 500 pounds of ink How Do You Measure -
By Savannah Whaley
As the saying goes, “It takes a village to raise a child.” But how do you develop and nourish that village — especially one as dynamic, proud and varied as the spectrum of colors on the flag it flies?
With this milestone 100th print issue, OutClique®1 continues to meet this challenge.
Take a Chance on Me
OutClique began when Publisher and Editor-inChief Steven O. Evans2, the holder of a Bachelor of Arts in Secondary Mathematics Education from Asbury University, a Master’s of Arts in Counseling from Asbury Theological Seminary, and a PhD in Educational Policy Studies and Evaluation with an emphasis in Undergraduate Medical Education (UGME) and Pediatrics from the University of Kentucky College of Education, found himself at loose ends after projects at Broward College concluded. Someone who loves the arts, choral and sacred music, handbell ringing, and most of all, being a church organist, Evans and his then roommate, Daren Loli, decided to launch an arts and event website catering to the LGBTQA+ audience.
“Click is the sound of the camera, a computer mouse, and the name of a group of people who like to do the same thing together,” Evans revealed about the origins of the magazine’s title. “The website didn’t really take off and Michael Cook, the publisher of Metro Guys, suggested we should start a magazine. He did not view us as competition and I could call and say, ‘What do I do?’”
LGBTQA+ publishing pioneer Alan Beck also offered advice and brought in the legal expertise of Ken Keechl, the first out gay member of the Broward County Commission. The late politician became the agent of record and got the publication off the ground with its first issue in December 2016.
“When I started this, I wanted to give people the Lexus experience in a magazine as best I could,” Evans recalled.” It drives amazingly, but it's the experience they give to their customers. They know how to keep you satisfied, yet wanting more. Two of my most honored possessions are my 2010 ISC convertible and 2019 RXLboth in Matador Red Mica.” (Special thanks to Majestic Carwash for keeping them clean.)
The Hustle
With the second issue in January 2017, Evans felt OutClique was truly road ready with the sexy Steve Grand at Grand Resort and Spa on the cover and a magazine that was sexy and oozed class and style.
Evans and his best friend, Arthur Wood, worked out of his house (at a 4’x4’ table) managing content, color correcting photos, invoicing clients, and doing all the day to day operations (everyone takes out the trash).
Tom Pence, who also led "Celebration of Friends," was in charge of distributing the print magazine. “Tom was an absolute delight,” Evans laughed. “He pushed those carts around in the blazing sun and spoke about it with such pride.
Thanks to the hard work of current Distribution Director, Jason Eakin, and his sidekick, Dany, the magazine is everywhere today.
“OutClique is a magazine that we all enjoy reading and picking up at the grocery store when we're checking out,” said Charles Baran, OutClique senior writer. “You never know what you’ll find. We select people who are leaders in their field whether it’s a composer, chef, restaurant owner or DJ.”
An interior designer from Manhattan who made a midlife transformation into an actor and the man behind the Rhoda Rage drag persona and the mystery Rhoda Rage and the Goldfish Letter, the gregarious Baran is a living example of the mutual relationship between OutClique and its community.
“I was down here doing a show and I said to the producer, ‘You know, we should do some advertising’ and I called Steven,” Baran said. “He doesn’t remember this, but he was so nice. I told him we were doing an opening night party at Rosie’s and asked if he would give us a page for pictures. He said, ‘Absolutely.’”
Part of the arts community supported by OutClique, Baran now beats the drum for others as an OutClique Brand Ambassador along with Arnie Cuarenta and other enthusiastic Brand Ambassadors.
“Whether it's just saying hello to the host and letting them know you're there at an opening or basically meeting people, we take some photos to get some PR for the places we go,” Baran explained.
I Love the Nightlife
Baran is joined by longtime contributors such as Senior Lifestyle Writer Denny Patterson and Senior South Florida News Journalist, John Hayden, who have covered celebrities, the arts, and nightlife in their many articles. Publicists like Kip Hunter, Gary Schweikhart, Michael Goodman, Jan Mitchell, and their colleagues from across the country have introduced their clients to OutClique readers through engaging and insightful interviews.
Art lovers have been treated to exclusive behind-thescenes glimpses with local creatives, including Dr. Gary Keating, founder of the original Fort Lauderdale Gay Men’s Chorus, as well as organizations such as Empire Stage, Island City Stage, Slow Burn Theatre Company, New City Players, and Men Who Dance. OutClique has also
taken the lead in announcing performances by Florida Grand Opera, South Florida Symphony Orchestra, The Gay Men’s Chorus of South Florida, Gold Coast Jazz, Symphony of the Americas, South Florida Pride Bands, Master Chorale of South Florida, and NOVA Singers.
Readers have come to know and love a diverse array of talented performers, from local favorites like Jennifer McClain, Miss Bouvèé, Lenora Jaye, Antonio Edwards, Candy Cox, Joe Posa, and Randy Roberts to nationally recognized names such as The Golden Gays NYC, Tom Goss, Miss Richfield 1981, Kathy Griffin, Kristin Chenoweth, Mayim Bialik, Vicki Lawrence, Anderson Cooper, Andy Cohen, Bianca Del Rio, Dixie Longate/Kris Andersson, Well Strung, Jinkx Monsoon, Randy Rainbow, John Waters, Dan Levy, Fortune Feimster, Sophie Ellis-Bextor, Theresa Caputo, Darren Criss, Neil Patrick Harris, Kevin Bacon, Carrie Preston, Bernadette Peters, Charo, Belinda Carlisle, Latrice Royale, Chita Rivera, Belinda Davids, Alan Cumming, Ben Platt, Michael Carbonaro, Carson Kressley, Mike Ruiz, Margaret Cho, Lewis Black, Melissa Etheridge, Jeanne Robertson, Hal Sparks, Paula Poundstone, Lea DeLaria, Bruce Vilanch, Jesse Tyler Ferguson, Johnny Mathis, Roxxxy Andrews, Stormy Daniels, Ginger Minj, Brooke Lynn Hytes, and Varla Jean Merman.
The magazine has served as an all-access pass to premier events at top-performing arts venues, including The Broward Center, The Raymond F. Kravis Center, The Adrienne Arsht Center, The Center in Coral Springs, Lauderhill Performing Arts Center, Key West Theatre, SunShine Cathedral, Empire Stage, The Dr. Phillips Center, Pompano Beach Amphitheater, La Te Da, Savor Cinema, and Gateway Theater.
OutClique has also collaborated with esteemed organizations such as Broadway Across America, ArtServe, Stonewall National Museum & Archives, the Phillip and Patricia Frost Museum of Science, Bonnet House Museum & Gardens, the Museum of Discovery and Science, Broward County Public Libraries, the Art and Culture Center/Hollywood, OUTshine Film Festival, the Fort Lauderdale International Film Festival (FLiFF), Sanctuary of the Arts, FLoatarama, and FlockFest.
In addition, the magazine has been a proud supporter of major LGBTQ+ events, including Stonewall Pride Wilton Manors, Key West Pride, Orlando Pride, Wynwood Pride, and Space Coast Pride, along with vital community organizations such as Pet Project for Pets and Poverello.
As the lively crowd gathered in the Broward Center’s lobby for the South Florida Symphony Orchestra’s dazzling production of Candide, they could pick up the January 2025 issue of OutClique beneath a framed, poster-sized cover featuring the concert. Evans’ date that evening nudged him and quipped, “You won’t find your competitors’ publications in the Broward Center lobby.”
South Florida Symphony Orchestra CEO and President Jacqueline Lorber affectionately refers to Evans as his “Jewish mother”—a dynamic that works both ways. “She has looked after me and the magazine with genuine care, and I’ve called her for advice more times than I can count,” Evans shared. “She works three times as hard as I do, and when I see that, I think, ‘I’m not giving up.’ She also halfstalks my social media and will call me up to suggest that maybe I take something down.”
That OutClique cover proudly displayed at the Broward Center wasn’t even the magazine’s most groundbreaking moment. In June 2023, the famously image-conscious Walt Disney Company made history by approving the use of key art for OutClique's firstever cover without a real person—featuring Disney Pride in Concert, presented by The Gay Men’s Chorus of South Florida.
Don't Stop ‘Til You Get Enough
Exactly one year later, OutClique hit the stands with its only cover featuring shirtless men — celebrating the clothing-optional resort of Island House Key West.
“I was talking to resort managers Jeff Smead and James Braun one evening,” Evans recalled. “They have done so much for people who come from places where they feel ‘different’ every day. It’s incredible to go somewhere like Island House and simply feel like a normal human being.”
Over the years, OutClique has lifted the velvet rope and opened the doors to the nightlife at Rosie’s Bar & Grill, Mangia-MangiGeorgie's Alibi Monkey Bar, Aquaplex (formerly LIPS), Eagle Bar Wilton Manors, Pub on the Drive, LeBoy, LIT Bar, Bourbon Street Pub Key West, Club Fort Lauderdale, and more.
Helping guide the way were visionaries like the Key West Business Guild, Virgin Voyages, and Richard Gray—now retired Senior Vice President of Visit Fort Lauderdale. Another indispensable travel expert is Source Journey’s CEO, Craig Smith, who understands that for many, travel is more than just a night out — it’s a deeply personal escape.
“I had a trip planned to Tahiti, but my dachshund of 18 years had just passed,” Evans shared, recalling his grief at the time. “I told Craig I just didn’t want to go. After five days, in his loving way, Craig convinced me to take the trip. Because of him, I had an amazing experience. The way he connects with people is truly special—not just with me, but with all his clients.”
Evans fondly remembers feeling his dachshund’s presence, almost as if he were saying: "Daddy, you’ve cried enough. I’m running and playing. I can see again. I’m having a peepee and poopie on Jesus’ lawn. Go on this trip. I’m here, waiting for you, and I’ll see you when you get here."
Travel doesn’t stop, as the Big Coconut Guesthouse, Alexedar’s Guest House Key West, The Perry, and others have also been part of the OutClique journey.
Turn the Beat Around
Starting as an online arts guide, OutClique has transformed into a dynamic platform that highlights leaders making a significant impact. It has featured influential figures such as Visit Lauderdale’s President and CEO Stacy Ritter, Broward County Cultural Division Director Phillip Dunlap, and Fort Lauderdale Mayor Dean Trantalis, who has appeared on the cover twice.
Jorge Perez, OutClique’s ambassador in Palm Beach, emphasizes the magazine’s expansion beyond arts coverage as increasingly vital. “Without OutClique, people would likely be left scrambling for information during what’s
shaping up to be four challenging years,” Perez noted. “There are subtle aggressions at play, and OutClique serves as a reliable source for people to stay informed.”
OutClique is also leading the way in providing vital medical information, covering the important work of organizations like AIDS Healthcare Foundation (AHF), CAN Community Health, SunServe, Latinos Salud, The Pride Center at Equality Park, Jackson Health System, Care Resource Community Health Centers, Broward House, Broward County Health Department, Beachcomber Family Center for Addiction Recovery, and Holy Cross Health.
Rivendell Media has helped the magazine keep readers up-to-date on new pharmaceuticals, while advertisers like UberLube announce their latest products.
“I had a friend visiting from another country— no citizenship, no insurance, and no resources whatsoever,” Evans recalled. “I sent him to Latinos Salud, and he tested positive for syphilis, gonorrhea, and HIV. Within two days, they had him on medication for everything and quickly became undetectable (U). Getting people on PrEP or ‘U’ is the only way we’re going to eradicate this disease.”
True Colors
While OutClique is an essential resource for the LGBTQ+ community, Publisher Steven Evans emphasizes that not every article must have an LGBTQ+ focus. The magazine’s mission is broader— celebrating diversity, inclusivity, and the many voices that make up South Florida.
Not every OutClique staffer is a member of the LGBTQ+ community either. Take OutClique editor and writer Megan Fitzgerald, PhD, for example. As the communication program director and an associate professor at Nova Southeastern University—a minority-majority institution— she deeply understands the importance of representation.
“You can pick up the magazine and get a real sense of the strengths of this community,” Fitzgerald said. “I did a story on a food bank and the problem of homelessness in Wilton
Manors. OutClique is truly serving the community—and that means everyone.”
Over the years, the magazine has featured inspiring leaders on its covers, including Bishop Durrell Watkins, D.Min. & Bishop Robert L. Griffin, D. Min of Sunshine Cathedral, BSO LGBTQ+ North Regional Liaison Captain Paul Auerbach, Our Fund Foundation CEO and President David Jobin, and the philanthropic duo of Wilton Manors Commissioner Don D'Arminio and his husband, Marc Martorana.
Beyond its covers, OutClique has also championed the important work of organizations like the Miami Foundation, Funding Arts Broward (FAB), the Community Foundation of Broward, United Church of Christ Fort Lauderdale, First United Methodist Church Fort Lauderdale, Christ Church Fort Lauderdale, and the Better Business Bureau.
Ain’t No Stoppin’ Us Now
OutClique grew as the LGBTQA+ community thrived. The physical dimensions of the magazine changed through the years from its original 9”x 6” digest size (December 2016) to 10”x 6” in the December 2020 issue. A year later in December 2021 it evolved to its current size of 8.5“ x11.”
Once a New York City car service chauffeur, Gary now drives press runs printing the magazine since the first issue.
“It was a smaller magazine at the time, but it’s become a massive success,” he said. “Now, honestly, it's a magazine you'd see in a bookstore. It’s far above a typical rack-type magazine. In the more than eight years I've been printing with them, it's been a pleasure.”
Director of Graphic Design Sach Chokami joined OutClique five months before the first issue, and with his team, has worked on the design and layout of more than 12,000 pages. Approximately 70% of those are designed in-house.
“Looking at the final version of a project is always joyful and interesting,” Sach says. “We’ve always strived to maintain our core standards while continuously improving the quality of our work, our client relationships, and the messages we deliver to our readers. I see publications and platforms like OutClique as amplifying the community's voice, making sure it’s heard and seen.”
Sach has the advantage of photos by Stephen Lang, director of photography.
“I call him our ethnological photographer,” Evans said. “Those pictures are worth so much because they show what people were wearing and doing on those days. We are creating that history that we've not been able to before, both in print and digital form.”
Although it has found success in print, OutClique hasn’t forgotten its early digital roots. Director of Social Media Chandler Scott, who also serves as assistant to Dr. Evans, has been behind the growth of its powerful media presence.
“I love hearing from followers who appreciate our content,” Scott said. “It’s great to know that our work helps bring people together. Collaborating with local influencers and using targeted ads helped us reach a wider audience. Even though OutClique is a magazine, our social media presence should have personality.”
We are Family
Whether in print or online, a woman who served as a legal assistant at a local attorney’s office, assistant to a Judge on the Kentucky Court of Appeals, and staff support at the Kentucky Legislative Ethics Commission renders final judgment on all content. Evans’ proud mother, (now 78 years old), created the magazine’s style guide and continues to proofread the articles.
“When I proofread an article and if it contains language I think is unsuitable, I omit it,” she confirmed. “‘Keep it clean,’ I always say. We want a magazine that everyone can enjoy reading and not be offended.”
Evans added, “I tell clients, if my mother doesn’t approve, it doesn’t go in. And no one argues with a gay boy’s mother. But it also instills a high level of trust, they know mom has approved, and it will be correct and appropriate.
I’ve made more money from this paradigm than any other since starting the magazine.”
Evans’ father, at 82 years old, played a significant role in inspiring the publisher to launch the magazine. “My dad was a banker and loan officer in downtown Versailles, KY. He was well-known, liked, and respected by everyone,” Evans shared. “I wanted to create something that would allow me to be active in the community and connect with people like he did.” Notably, his father's default rate was just 10% of the national average. If you borrowed money from Evans’ dad, you were expected to repay it, driven by a sense of reputation and respect.
Today, the OutClique family is composed of committed and diverse staffers. They deliver each issue with the vital assistance of knowledgeable advisers, leaders who champion a vibrant LGBTQA+ community, dedicated physicians and businesses that support it, inspiring artists that give it voice, and gathering places that uplift it.
Evans said that the community welcoming OutClique is the most rewarding aspect of the magazine’s success.
“The numbers that I have in my phone are worth more than anything,” he said. “I had a particularly challenging and disturbing situation with a public figure. I posted it on Facebook without any identifying information. The quantity and quality of leadership that jumped up and said, ‘We've got your back’ was absolutely overwhelming. I cannot get any higher honors than these same people trusting me with their personal cell phone numbers and answering the call when I need it.”
Evans hopes the print magazine, website, social media, and email blasts continue to create more laughter over cups of coffee, at sunsets, at midnight, in times we cry, in truths we learn, celebrating our lives as friends, remembering the love, and the warm season of South Florida. How do you measure a year in a life? “Life is short, happiness need not be.”3
1 OutClique is a registered trademark with the United States Patent and Trademark Office. Contact Miriam Richter, Richter Trademarks.
2 Evans, S. (2012) Pediatrics education in an AHEC setting: Preparing students to provide patient centered medicine. A research study of ways that medical students learn patient centered medicine through their rotations in AHEC clinical settings. McEldowney Jensen, PhD.,J. Director of Graduate Studies, Educational Policy Studies & Education. University of Kentucky, College of Education. (Doctoral supervisor).
3 Easterday-Holder, A. DMA (former Chair and Professor of Music at Carson-Newman University and choir member Immanuel Baptist Church, Lexington, KY). (www.ibclex.org)
Reflections on My Time as a Writer with OutClique Magazine
By Denny Patterson
Throughout my career as a journalist, writing for OutClique has truly been one of the most rewarding and transformative experiences.
When I first joined the publication in 2017, when OutClique was still in its infancy, I instantly knew I was becoming part of something special - a platform that celebrates South Florida’s vibrant culture, diverse voices, and powerful stories. However, I didn’t fully anticipate just how deeply being a part of this team would shape me as both a writer and a person. It has been an incredible privilege to not only contribute to OutClique’s growth and evolution, but also witness its impact on the community it serves.
Ironically, my journey with OutClique began thanks to my ex-boyfriend, Arthur “Nelson” Wood. Life has a way of leading us to exactly where we need to be, sometimes through the most unexpected connections. What started as a simple introduction with Dr. Steven Evans quickly turned into something much bigger. Though I write remotely from St. Louis, OutClique has made me feel like an honorary South Floridian.
Although I write about everything and anything, one of the most exhilarating aspects of my time with OutClique has been the opportunity to interview several celebrities and artists. Whether they’re Hollywood personalities performing at a prestigious venue like the Broward Center, rising social media influencers, or local South Florida drag queens, to me, connecting with these people has always been about crafting compelling stories that allow readers to understand their journeys, struggles, and triumphs. Each interview provides a glimpse into their world, and these moments reinforced me on why storytelling matters. It connects us, it inspires us, and it leaves a lasting impact far beyond the printed page.
In addition to my celebrity interviews, OutClique also gave me the privilege of engaging with South Florida’s visionaries, activists, and entrepreneurs who are shaping the region’s future. By interacting with these local leaders, I gained a profound appreciation for the resilience, passion, and innovation that fuel this community. From those fighting for equality to those redefining business and culture, each story I covered deepened my admiration for the people who make South Florida a dynamic and thriving place. Every story I wrote was a chance to highlight the individuals and places that make South Florida so unique, which made me fall in love with the community in ways I never expected.
So, here we are celebrating our 100th issue, and I am overwhelmed with gratitude. Though my time with OutClique may evolve, the experiences and lessons I’ve gained will remain with me, shaping the way I write, connect, and see the world.
Thank you, Steven, for inviting me into your world and taking me on this crazy, but incredible, journey. I cannot wait to see what more OutClique can accomplish.
Courtesy
Photo
of Denny Patterson
My OutClique Journey
By John Hayden
OutClique changed my life. That statement is not hyperbole. It is 100% true.
In 2018, I suddenly realized that I had two parents in their seventies. While both were still able to get around and travel, I realized that I wanted to enjoy the good times and be able to go to them on a moment’s notice when the bad times came.
That meant leaving a 25-year career as a TV journalist.
I had met Dr. Steven several times socially. When I was shopping around for an interview with Hugh Jackman, I pitched him the story. He passed. However, he did offer me work on other stories.
The first article I ever had published in OutClique was about a trans woman who became an ordained priest. Though she was from the Northeast, she did much of her training in South Florida with Holy Angels.
For me, it was transformative. Most of my interviews in TV news were about five minutes long. Now, here I was, taking my time to get to know my interview subject. We laughed. We talked about things that would never make the story but helped me frame my perspective.
Since then, I’ve met dozens more people and told their stories. When someone trusts you enough to tell their story, it is truly an honor.
Two and a half years later, in October 2020, I left broadcast TV and went full-time freelance. While I do write for local and national outlets, OutClique remains special.
They say you never forget your first. That is certainly the case with me. Dr. Steven took a chance on me. He encouraged me. He somehow can sense when something is off with me and calls.
Dr. Steven is more than a publisher and community chronicler; he is my friend. I am forever grateful to him and the OutClique team. I look forward to writing an essay for the 200th issue.
Our Fund's Philanthropy Awards at Broward Center
Photos
“Partnering with the Community Foundation of Broward empowers me to make a BOLD impact for the community I love. As a longtime philanthropist and LGBTQ activist, my new endowed charitable funds at the Community Foundation are broadening the scope and amplifying the impact of my giving. Grants in my name develop future leaders, break down barriers to success and shape a community where everyone is treated with equity. I love that my endowed support is the gift that keeps on giving, long after I’m gone. With the Community Foundation as a partner, my BOLD impact never ends.”
Oliver Chen & Richard Wang
Host Pastels & Pearls 2025!
Photos Courtesy of Oliver Chen and Richard Briggs-Price
Special thanks to friend and photographer Richard Briggs-Price.
Maestro Pablo Mielgo and the Symphony of the Americas presents Shostakovich’s Symphony No. 7: Leningrad - Resiliency in the Face of Oppression
By Charles Baran
In August of 1941, prior to the United States officially entering World War II, German forces, under Hitler’s command, had surrounded the Russian city of Leningrad. Thus began a siege that lasted 2 years, 4 months, and 19 days. These 872 days remain the longest and most deadly siege in history, resulting in an estimated 1.5 million deaths, mostly from starvation. It is recorded in the annals of history as The Siege of Leningrad.
For Hitler, the anticipated capture of the Russian city held more of a symbolic victory than a strategic one as Leningrad was once the capital of Russia and the ideological center of Bolshevism, which was detested by Hitler and other high-ranking members of the Nazi party. During this time, Russian composer Dmitri Shostakovich and his family were residents of Leningrad and it was under these dire conditions that he set upon creating one of his major works, Symphony No. 7, which has come to be known as The Leningrad Symphony
This month, on March 11, and again on March 16, South Florida’s Symphony of the Americas (SOTA) will perform this monumental work at the Amaturo Theater at the Broward Center for the Performing Arts. Both performances will be conducted by SOTA Artistic and Music Director Pablo Mielgo, who continues his mission of bringing the highest level of musicianship and programming to South Florida audiences.
The Leningrad Symphony was written by Shostakovich as a bold act of defiance and resistance to Hitler’s fascist regime. It was completed on December 27, 1941, when
the city was 16 weeks into its 125-week siege. It had its Leningrad premiere on August 9, 1942, while the city was surrounded on all sides by Nazi troops. Finding musicians to perform the piece in the besieged city was a challenge, as relentless hunger and illness caused many members of the orchestra to physically collapse under the stress of performing such a strenuous piece. In fact, the orchestra was able to play the symphony all the way through only once prior to the concert. The concert evening was attended by a crowd of emaciated patrons wearing evening clothes that had become too large for their fragile frames. In the ultimate act of defiance to Hitler and his fascist ideology, the music was broadcast throughout the streets of Leningrad making it accessible to everyone. Even Nazi forces on the outskirts of the city’s walls heard the music as it was being performed. Thunderous applause followed the completion of the performance proving that the will of the people would not topple under the thumb of a despotic ruler who sought to destroy and control the citizens of Leningrad for his nefarious goals.
The Leningrad Symphony remains a masterpiece of composition made even more important given the circumstances surrounding its creation. With this knowledge in hand, it is fitting that SOTA presents the work in 2025, when day after day the world as we know it is changing rapidly, with democracies falling, autocrats rising, and liberties and freedoms stripped away.
Tuesday, March 11 at 7:45PM and Sunday, March 16 at 2:00PM. Amaturo Theater at the Broward Center for the Performing Arts. For tickets visit sota.org.
Tuesday, March 11 and Sunday, March 16 Amaturo Theater
Warren Wolf Quintet, Weaving Wonders with
the Vibraphone
The Warren Wolf Quintet takes the stage at The Broward Center for the Performing Arts’ Amaturo Theater on March 12, 2025, at 7:45 p.m., as part of the 2024-2025 Gold Coast Jazz Society (GCJS) Concert Series. Led by Vibraphone virtuoso Warren Wolf—whom *All About Jazz* calls a vibes wizard— the Quintet showcases the brilliance of one of today’s most accomplished vibraphonists.
An international touring musician, Warren has performed in countries across North and South America, Europe, and Asia. With ten recordings, most notably for Mack Ave Records, he is a member of the SFJAZZ Collective and Christian McBride’s *Inside Straight*. Warren is also a faculty member at the Peabody Conservatory of Music in Baltimore, MD, and the San Francisco Conservatory of Music.
Wolf’s musical journey began at age three, when he started training on the vibraphone, marimba, drums, and piano under his father’s guidance. His early start fostered a deep love for music and an exceptional skill set that shaped his career. Today, he’s a sought-after collaborator and serves as the drummer for saxophonist Tia Fuller, a longtime member of Beyoncé’s band. He’s also part of the Donal Fox Group, playing alongside bassist John Lockwood and drummers Dafnis Prieto and Terri Lyne Carrington.
Described as a musician who “maintains a beautiful melodicism in his playing” (*Nextbop Jazz*), Wolf’s mastery of the vibraphone blends technical brilliance with emotional depth. Known for its bell-like tones, the vibraphone has been redefined in modern jazz through his approach, combining rhythmic complexity with breathtaking artistry.
Joining Wolf is a lineup of master musicians: Tim Green on alto saxophone, Blake Meister on bass, Alex Brown on piano/keyboard, and Grammynominated McClenty Hunter on drums. Together, they create a synergy that transforms Wolf’s compositions into dynamic experiences.
South Florida Symphony Orchestra is mad for Mozart this March, presenting two riveting works, including his haunting choral masterpiece, Requiem, featuring the South Florida Symphony Chorus and dazzling guest vocalists. Plus, his ever-popular Symphony No. 40. Known as the “Great G minor Symphony”, it is a daring, evocative work dripping with emotion that beautifully exemplifies his stature as one of music’s greatest innovators.
TUESDAY, MARCH 11 New World Center, Miami Beach
WEDNESDAY, MARCH 12
South
Florida Symphony Orchestra Presents Don Juan with Berlioz & J. Strauss II
Photos Courtesy
Terrence “T.M.” Pride Talks
‘Fat
Ham,’ Theater Partnerships, and More
By Denny Patterson
Pulitzer Prize-winning playwright James Ijames turns Shakespeare’s most famous tragedy on its head in Fat Ham, a dazzling comic reinvention set in the American South.
Swapping a Danish castle for a backyard barbecue, Fat Ham follows Juicy, a young Black queer man navigating questions of identity, family, and fate when the ghost of his father appears, demanding vengeance. However, unlike Hamlet, Juicy isn’t convinced that violence is the answer. As the smoke from the grill rises, so does a powerful exploration of trauma, joy, and the radical choice to break cycles of pain.
Hilarious and deeply moving, Fat Ham is a bold and refreshing take on a classic tale, and it will soon make its highly anticipated South Florida debut. Co-produced by three prominent theater companies, the production will run at Island City Stage from April 3 to May 4, 2025, before moving to GableStage in Coral Gables from May 16 to June 15.
OutClique recently caught up with Brévo Theatre’s producing artistic director, Terrence “T.M.” Pride, who will be directing Fat Ham, to explore the play’s powerful themes and his vision for the production. He also shared insights on collaborating with Island City Stage and GableStage, and how this historic partnership was brought to life through the generous support of the Warten Foundation.
Denny Patterson: Hi, Terrence! How excited are you for the South Florida premiere of Fat Ham?
T.M. Pride: I’m kind of leading with anticipation! I’m very excited about how audiences will respond to what is really a genuine, yet funny adaptation, of a great Shakespearean work. I’m definitely thrilled about it.
Denny Patterson: For those who aren’t familiar with this show, what can they expect?
T.M. Pride: I consider this to be an invitation to the cookout (laughs). All this talk that we’ve had for so long about who’s invited to the cookout, this is that one opportunity. You can sit back, kick your shoes off, and enjoy. I know the talent that we have on stage is going to serve, and it’s going to be good for the soul, heart, and humanity. For us
to break bread together and laugh at the way life comes at us sometimes. What this story teaches us is that we sometimes do have to laugh to keep from crying. There are some ugly truths that happen from time to time, but I think the optimism is when we find the joy and laughter as we journey through it together.
Denny Patterson: Fat Ham is being co-produced between Island City Stage, GableStage, and Brévo Theatre, which you are the producing artistic director for. How did this partnership come to be?
T.M. Pride: I have to give all kudos and a huge shoutout to Andy Rogow because he is the brain child of this entire situation. We did a production of The Brothers Size at Island City Stage, and right afterwards, and I do mean the day after we closed, Andy hit us up and said, I want to talk to you guys about producing this play called Fat Ham. And everything grew from there. As we started our partnership and collaboration, we found out that GableStage had already requested the rights for the show, so that’s what brought GableStage to the table.
Denny Patterson: You are directing Fat Ham. What is your overall vision for the show?
T.M. Pride: My overall vision for Fat Ham; I want to show the authenticity of being a Black queer man navigating through your own desires, as well as what your family desires from you. Juicy an interesting journey, but along his journey, he’s also an inspiration to a friend. My goal is to use Juicy’s story to ignite what is hopefully the beginning of another beautiful story that happens with his friend, Larry. I think that Juicy is a torch bearer, and by him carrying this torch and navigating his family, Larry is able to observe him going through these motions and notions, dismantling the care for what people think of him and what his family specifically desires for him. By watching, Larry is able to have his own moment of clarity.
Denny Patterson: And what do you ultimately hope audiences take away from it?
T.M. Pride: There are so many things, but ultimately, I want audiences to simply love one another despite our own preconceived notions of what we want for those individuals. Let their happiness be their happiness. Not ours.
Photo Credit: Trisha Rosales of Ganesha Photos
Edward Albee's
BALANCE DELICATE A
THE
Dying Gaul
by Craig Lucas
A Floral Paradise Awaits at Bonnet House Museum & Gardens
16th Annual International Orchid & Garden Festival
Spring will bloom in all its glory during the 16th Annual International Orchid & Garden Festival, taking place on April 5 and 6, 2025, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the breathtaking Bonnet House Museum & Gardens in Fort Lauderdale. This vibrant celebration of nature is a mustvisit for orchid enthusiasts, gardening aficionados, and anyone captivated by the beauty of flora.
The International Orchid & Garden Festival is one of Bonnet House’s largest fundraisers, celebrating nature and welcoming visitors from near and far to revel in a kaleidoscope of colors and fragrances. More than 30 local and international vendors will showcase a diverse selection of orchids, tropical plants, herbs, fruit trees, bamboo, and butterfly garden plants. Whether you're searching for a rare orchid to add to your collection or simply looking for gardening inspiration, the Festival offers an experience tailored to plant lovers of all kinds.
Set amidst the historic 35-acre Bonnet House estate, the two-day event provides an idyllic backdrop of lush gardens, tranquil ponds, and towering palms. Guests can enjoy live music near the Dry Fountain at the end of the Allée, sip on a refreshing mimosa or Bloody Mary, and browse an array of garden art and orchid supplies.
Beyond its dazzling botanical displays, the Festival offers a variety of activities:
● Tropical Luau Lunch: Indulge in a catered buffet lunch with Mai Tais, wine, beer, and live Tahitian music and hula dancers on the scenic Waterfront Veranda. Tickets for this experience are $100 each, which includes Festival admission and a house tour.
● Interactive Lectures: Experts will share tips and tricks for orchid care and general gardening throughout the weekend.
● Edible Delights: Food vendors scattered across the property will serve delicious bites, complemented by wine, beer, and tropical libations.
● Forest Forms: Immerse your family in art and nature at the Forest Forms outdoor art exhibition, featuring 18 larger-than-life animal and plant sculptures by acclaimed artist Huelani Mei. (Included with the price of admission.)
In previous years, vendors have come from Florida and around the world, including Hawaii, Southeast Asia, Thailand, Ecuador, and Costa Rica, offering a variety of plants, orchids, and all the supplies needed to cultivate healthy orchids.
Bonnet House, a historic winter retreat once owned by artists Evelyn and Frederic Bartlett, has a special connection to orchids. Evelyn's passion for cultivating orchids is evident in the museum's collection, which includes plants she personally nurtured. Her legacy blooms on in the Orchid Display House, part of the Shell Museum Complex, where visitors can admire her contributions and learn how these stunning plants can thrive for decades.
Guests are encouraged to explore the self-guided tours of the house and grounds, marvel at the Bartletts' art, statues, and sculptures throughout the estate, and immerse themselves in its timeless charm.
For families, children 12 and under enjoy free admission, making it a perfect outing for all ages. Admission is $25 for one day or $40 for both days. (No discounts or group rates available.) Free parking and shuttle service ensure convenience, while shaded rest areas offer comfort during your visit.
Rain or shine, the International Orchid & Garden Festival will be an unforgettable experience celebrating nature's beauty and the storied history of Bonnet House Museum & Gardens. Mark your calendar for this spectacular event, and prepare to be enchanted by a floral wonderland unlike any other.
ArtServe’s Exhibit “Burnout and Black Artists: Emotional Sustainability in the Arts” Explores the Complex Emotional Landscape of Black Artists
ArtServe recently celebrated the opening of its first exhibit of 2025, “Burnout and Black Artists: Emotional Sustainability in the Arts,” bringing together a diverse audience from the local South Florida community for an evening of live music, dance and thought-provoking art.
Sponsored by Florida Power & Light Company (FPL), this exhibit, open through March 28, dives into the emotional struggles that Black artists face. It looks at the weight of trauma and pain, and how the pressure to constantly create around these themes can be exhausting.
“Burnout and Black Artists” also shines a light on the need for emotional sustainability—showing that it’s important to move beyond trauma and focus on growth. The exhibit pushes for a more holistic view of the Black experience, opening up important conversations about emotional wellbeing and personal discovery.
The opening reception was held at ArtServe’s gallery in Fort Lauderdale, offering guests a first look at a dynamic and talented group of artists, including Holly Forbes, Joshua D. Buron, Kimberly Ferguson, Anthony Robinson, Yvonne Pubien, Art Cartwright, Sheila Alexander, and Stacy Daugherty.
ArtServe invites all to visit and experience this thoughtprovoking show, free of charge, at their Fort Lauderdale location at 1350 East Sunrise Boulevard in Fort Lauderdale, from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday and Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
ArtServe inspires, supports and advances its diverse members, artists and community by promoting artistic development, education and prosperity through the exploration and presentation of the visual and performing arts.
THURSDAY
Participating restaurants will be donating part of their sales from the evening to support Broward House and those in our community living with HIV.
June 19 - 26, 2025 | Amsterdam to Nuremberg
Great Composers along the Rhine River is the first in a series of exclusive travel programs exquisitely curated by Maestra Sebrina Alfonso for South Florida Symphony Orchestra patrons. These meticulously crafted journeys seamlessly blend history, art, architecture, food, wine, and classical music to create truly bespoke experiences.
Sailing for 7 nights aboard our brand-new floating hotel, The Gentleman, enjoy a fully customized experience exploring the region that classical Masters such as Mozart, Liszt, Schuman, Beethoven, and Wagner called home.
Your voyage aboard The Gentleman includes:
Unique shore excursions with local guides plus QuietVox listening devices
• Welcome & farewell gala cocktail receptions
• Free-flowing beverages throughout the sailing
• All meals to include lunch on embarkation day through breakfast on disembarkation day featuring curated dinners by Chef Todd Erickson
• Unlimited high-speed Wi-Fi
• Full Minibar (restocked daily)
• Complimentary fitness and wellness spaces, including a fitness center, E-bicycles
• And more!
Itinerary:*
Amsterdam, The Netherlands (Embarkation) Bonn, Germany
Day 3: Koblenz, Germany/Rhine River Gorge/ Rüdesheim, Germany
Day 4: Mainz, Germany
Day 5: Wertheim, Germany
Day 6: Würzburg, Germany
Day 7: Bamberg/Bayreuth, Germany
Day 8: Nuremberg, Germany (Disembarkation)
*Subject to change .
Starting at $3,999 Per Person Based on Double Occupancy when booking by Friday, January 31.
HEAVENLY
SPA BY WESTIN™ AT THE WESTIN® FORT LAUDERDALE
BEACH RESORT COMPLETES AN ELABORATE RENOVATION
Spa Enthusiasts Can Enjoy a Wellness Journey Inspired by Serene Destinations Worldwide with New Treatments, an Infrared Sauna and Exclusive Retail Products
This revitalized 9,000-square-foot sanctuary of self-care offering the ultimate in relaxation and pampering now features fresh, airy modern décor, two additional treatment rooms (for a total of 8 rooms), infrared saunas, a co-ed relaxation lounge, a retail boutique expansion and an enhanced menu of signature health and wellness treatments with a personalized welcome arrival experience.
“We’re thrilled to introduce guests to Heavenly Spa’s newly transformed oasis of relaxation in Fort Lauderdale,” said Spurlock. “Our newest and next-level offerings are inspired by the beauty and tranquility of the globe’s most sought-after tropical paradises and exotic locales – from Japan, Zanzibar, Fiji, Brazil, Costa Rica, Iceland and Hawaii.
Spa guests will immediately feel welcome in the expanded lobby area with mosaic tile accents and a streamlined retail area. The approximately 2,000 square feet of added space also includes two new treatment rooms including a third couple’s massage room and a wet room for massage and body treatments. The space was also reconfigured to offer a comfortable co-ed relaxation area. A new infrared sauna offers a wealth of health benefits and completes the luxury spa experience.
From therapeutic massages to cleansing facials and invigorating body treatments, each element of Heavenly Spa has been designed to stimulate the senses.
In addition to the physical enhancements, Heavenly Spa is now the only facility on Fort Lauderdale Beach to offer the exclusive Glo2Facial treatment,
a breakthrough that unlocks the body’s natural superpowers. It is also the only South Florida spa to offer the Phytocéane luxury line of products featuring beauty inspired by nature with the waters of the world.
Heavenly Spa offers facility day passes for resort guests to utilize spa amenities. Passes are $25 and available for purchase at the spa based on availability. Outside hotel guests are welcome and booking Spa services offers an opportunity to access the pool and beach.
For more information about Heavenly Spa by Westin™ or to book an appointment, call (954) 245-3040, email spa@westinftlauderdalebeach.com or visit us online at www.westinfortlauderdalebeachspa.com.
Hours: Sunday through Thursday, 9:30 am – 6 pm and Friday & Saturday, 8:30 am – 6 pm
Calendar of Events
19 The Pertrona St. Neighborhood Association: Drag Races!
Block of Duval Street, Key West
20 Una Noche de Zarzuela - The Passion of Zarzuela Symphony of the Americas
22 Una Noche de Zarzuela - The Passion of Zarzuela
Center for the Performing Arts
of the Americas Broward Center for the Performing Arts
22-27 WOOF Week Key West Island House, Key West
4/235/18 Disney’s the Lion King Walt Disney Theater / Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts / Orlando, FL 24 Dining Out
24-25 Lexus International Gay Polo Tournament Gay Polo League / Wellington, FL
Grand Opera
24-26 Carmen
Center for the Performing Art 25 ArtServe Impact Awards
25 Spring Music Concert - NSU’s Mako Band and the Bossa Nova Chorale Nova Southeastern University
25-27
22-27 Les Miserables
on Broadway: Kravis Center for the Performing Arts
6-18
7-22
9-10 Master Chorale’s “American Voices” First Presbyterian Church of Pompano Beach and St. Gregory’s Episcopal Church of Boca Raton
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