Volume 5, Issue 8 July 2021
Jeff & Stephen Neil Synergy Twins Funding Arts Broward Better Business Bureau Torch Awards Marylin’s Restaurant & Pub Key West
LauderDeals Justin Flippen Park Palm Beach Symphony
Steven O. Evans, PhD
Publisher and Editor in Chief Steven@OutClique.com
Arthur Wood III
Senior Associate Editor Arthur@OutClique.com
Connie Evans
Chief Copy Editor Mother of the Publisher
Coleman Crooks Associate Editor
Joey Amato, Sam Fray Assistant Editor
Sach AD Group
Director of Graphic Design
Chandler Scott
Director of Social Media Assistant to the Publisher
Chris Lodge
Director of Special Projects Assistant to the Publisher
Mike Ritzi, Irv Scott Sales Manager
Rivendell Media
National Advertising
Gregg Shapiro
Senior Entertainment Writer
Denny Patterson
Senior Lifestyle Writer
Contributing Writers
Andy Armano, Rod Davis, Doug Evans, Fr. Jamie Forsythe, John M. Hayden, Marty Kiar, On Mekahel, Patrick Rogers, Eric Noel Roman, Cory Sanders, Fr. Rich Vitale
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.
Greetings, and welcome to Wilton Manors!
Scott Newton Mayor Paul Rolli Vice Mayor Mike Bracchi Commissioner Chris Caputo Commissioner Gary Resnick Commissioner Leigh Ann Henderson City Manager Kerry Ezrol City Attorney
Please accept our warm welcome, along with our hope that you enjoy your visit to our wonderful Island City. Prepare to be wowed by all that we offer in just under two square miles, including miles of waterfront property, dozens of bars and restaurants, many shops, several art galleries, and acres and acres of parks! Wilton Manors, particularly Wilton Drive’s Arts and Entertainment District, is an important LGBT+ tourism destination known around the world, and we take pride in sharing our inclusive neighborhood values and welcome to all. Whether you are here for work or play, we hope you enjoy all the great things Wilton Manors has to showcase. We also invite you to consider the many residential and business opportunities available. However your time is spent in our city, we are thrilled you chose to visit us, and are proud to be recognized as a destination of progress, acceptance, and equality. In fact, we have earned a perfect score on the Human Rights Campaign Municipal Equality Index for 7 years in a row - the ONLY city in our region to do so - as we strive to demonstrate from policy to practice our commitment to being an inclusive community for all. Just as the LGBT+ Pride Flag flies permanently and year-round here, know that whatever color under the rainbow with which you most identify, you are welcome in our community. Be sure to mark your calendar for Wilton Manors Stonewall Pride along Wilton Drive, June 19. “Life’s just better here” in the City of Wilton Manors because of our residents, businesses, and visitors like you. Sincerely,
Scott Newton Mayor City of Wilton Manors
Wilton Manors is a Community Wildlife Habitat
In Pride and In Dedication Photo by Michael Murphy Photographic
By Steven O. Evans, PhD
We celebrated. After a long and trying time of lockdown, we were able to hit the streets again in celebration with events like the Stonewall Pride Parade & Street Festival in Wilton Manors; GFLGLCC mixers; the CommuniTea Dance at the Arsht Center; live shows at Island City Stage and the South Florida Symphony Orchestra; drinks and entertainment at our favorite clubs like The Pub, Georgie’s Alibi and Monkey Bar, Mona’s, Matty’s, Bourbon Street Pub Key West, Le Boy, and the Eagle; and even just to grab a bite to eat at Rosie’s. But our Stonewall Pride Festival was met with a tragedy that day, the death and injury of members of the Fort Lauderdale Gay Men’s Chorus (FTLGMC). I had the honor and privilege of being on the board of the chorus for two years and have been friends for some time with Dr. Gary Keating, their founder and current director. They are a phenomenal group and Gary is one of the most genuine people you will ever meet. My heart goes out to him, the chorus members, their partners, and friends during this difficult time. If you have not done so, please reach out to them and let them know of your support. It reminds me to not take a day or those around me for granted. So, take pride in what you do. It is with this that I dedicate our July 2021 issue to the FTLGMC. May happiness be abounding. 1 Steven O. Evans, PhD Editor in Chief Dr. Angela Easterday-Holder, former Chair and Professor of Music at Carson-Newman University.
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Business Skills for the Modern Creator Popular Series Snags National Award, Set for Summer Return By Joanie Cox
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hroughout 2020, the entire world was turned upside by the pandemic, and artists faced unprecedented challenges. During that seemingly insurmountable time, the Broward Cultural Division did what they do best; they got creative and demonstrated ingenuity in the face of adversity. The virtual Business Skills for the Modern Creator series was developed in response to the COVID-19 shutdown, which prevented the presentation of Broward Cultural Division’s annual in-person Artist as an Entrepreneur Institute program (AEI). Teaching artists how to transform their art into a successful business, the series earned the Broward Cultural Division an Achievement Award in Community and Economic Development from the National Association of Counties. Business Skills for the Modern Creator was live streamed free of charge through the Broward Cultural Division’s
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YouTube channel and Facebook page where it has been viewed by thousands globally. “It’s always great to receive recognition for your work,” Broward Cultural Division Director Phillip Dunlap said. “It helps to reaffirm we’re on the right track and that our staff’s hard work is being recognized.” Dunlap, who has been at the helm of Broward Cultural Division since 2019, is proud of how his team navigated the uncharted waters of the pandemic. “I think we did a really good job at being responsive and in a very short order,” Dunlap said. “We did a wonderful job of recognizing that despite the pandemic, the need for the skills AEI offered was still relevant and we continued the work and did it in a format that spoke to where we were as a society.” While programming is constantly evolving within the Broward Cultural Division, the opportunity
FREE ONLINE WORKSHOPS
APPLYING FOR GRANT FUNDING AS AN ARTIST SATURDAY, JULY 10 ANGELA RICHARDSON from The Grantsmanship Center will teach artists of all disciplines how to get an edge when applying for grant funding. Participants will learn how to prepare effective proposals for project-based grants and the steps that are needed when applying for various opportunities.
FINANCIAL STRATEGIES POST-PANDEMIC SATURDAY, JULY 17 The COVID-19 pandemic forced artists to rethink the way they made their income. In this workshop, ELAINE GROGAN LUTTRULL with Minerva Financial Arts will provide an overview of the financial implications of the COVID-19 pandemic, including strategies artists can implement for coping with ongoing uncertainty.
BUSINESS SKILLS FOR CREATIVES
JULY 10•17•24•31
CREATIVE PLACEMAKING FOR STRONGER COMMUNITY SATURDAY, JULY 24 In this session, DR. MARIA ROSARIO JACKSON and JASON SCHUPBACH will discuss how placemaking is a creative means to planning, designing and reimagining public spaces shared by people and their communities.
THE ART OF NEGOTIATION SATURDAY, JULY 31
ARTSCALENDAR.COM/BIZSKILLS
In this workshop, attorney JESSICA LEE of Loeb & Loeb LLP will help participants master the art of negotiation. Working through the negotiation process, you will acquire a framework, tools, techniques, and skills to solve problems and negotiate in different situations, both professionally and personally.
the pandemic presented to expand to a virtual space will continue. “One of the silver linings is that although the pandemic really pushed us into some uncomfortable spaces, it increased our capacity and ability to take our programs online to reach a wider audience,” Dunlap said. “The use of technology to amplify our programming beyond physical spaces is not just something we’re going to lose when things return to normal.” The Business Skills series returns this summer with new sessions on July 10,17, 24 and 31, 2021, at 10:30AM. Each session features industry professionals covering topics from how to apply for grant funding to mastering the art of negotiation. A session conducted entirely in Spanish will take place August 21, 2021, at 10:30AM to better serve Broward County’s growing community of Spanish-speaking creatives.
Rafael Cruz, an executive consultant, and George Gadson, a business consultant and market growth expert and artist, who are both with Florida Small Business Development Center at Florida Atlantic University, have a longtime affiliation with the AEI program and are looking forward to the return of Business Skills for the Modern Creator. Both were part of the 2020 program. “Over the past 15 years, we’ve trained over 900 artists. South Florida is known for its creative sector and creative economy. Now they’re getting the support necessary to leverage their talents and skills so they can not only make a creative impact, but also an economic impact, which creates intergenerational wealth,” said Cruz. Gadson advises, “For any artists interested in the program, don’t wait until the last minute to sign up because the demand causes the class to fill up quickly.”
For those interested in Business Skills for the Modern Creator, check out ArtsCalendar.com/BizSkills where you can find a full listing of the program’s offerings. 10 | OutClique.com
Stonewall Pride
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Coming Together After Tragedy
Photo Courtesy of Facebook
By John Hayden
O
ne day after the tragic accident at Stonewall Pride, where a truck plowed through the parade staging area killing one and injuring others, the community gathered at Sunshine Cathedral to remember, celebrate, and just be there for one another. “This is family getting together because we need it,” Rev. Dr. Durrell Watkins told OutClique just before the service began. As Senior Minister of Sunshine Cathedral he helped pull the event together in less than 24 hours using social media and the church’s connections. The service was more celebratory than somber and was meant to be a gathering to feel for one another, not a political rally or church service or even a memorial service. “I’m so proud of our community and that Sunshine Cathedral gets to be a community hub right now. We get to be a homecoming place,” Rev. Watkins said. “We get to be that church for our community and let people have what they need tonight – just come together and have what you need.” An investigation by several South Florida agencies and the FBI have determined it was an accident. Rev. Watkins was right by where it happened, and told OutClique in the confusion, he feared the worst. “I thought this was probably some sort of nefarious attack. The reason our minds go there is because historically that has happened at gatherings. We were relieved to soon realize that those fears were probably unfounded, but that is the knee-jerk reaction.
Have we been targeted again?” Also speaking were Wilton Manors Mayor Scott Newton and Vice President of Stonewall Pride Jamie Forsythe. Robert Boo of Pride Center at Equality Park spoke on behalf of the Fort Lauderdale Gay Men’s Chorus, whose members were involved in the accident. All discussed the importance of community and forgiveness. After the accident the parade was cancelled, but the street festival continued, which Rev. Watkins says is a testimony to the strength and pride of our community. “The response to it was really quite inspiring. The crowds stayed together. The professionals took charge, and it was a good way to respond to a bad situation.” SunServe is providing counseling to people affected, and told OutClique it’s part of their broader mission to serve our community. “When traumatic events like this occur anxiety and depression can follow. If you or someone you know is dealing with a new or exacerbated mental health issue, please reach out to our Mental Health professionals.” Rev. Watkins says the ministers from Sunshine Cathedral have been working tirelessly doing what they do best. “They’ve been working. Since the news they’ve gone into clergy mode. They’ve been praying, they’ve been talking with people, they’ve been planning for tonight, they’ve been doing what they do. They’re ministering to hurting people.”
The service is available on Sunshine Cathedral’s Youtube page: YouTube.com/hashtag/MyQueerChurch. 16 | OutClique.com
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Visit Lauderdale Welcomes Everyone Under the Sun with LauderDeals
Summer Savings Campaign Launching Features Discounts on Hotels and Attractions, Plus Special Offers with Dine Out Lauderdale and Spa Days Now through September 30, 2021 Photos Courtesy of Visit Lauderdale
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isit Lauderdale, the official destination marketing organization for Greater Fort Lauderdale, welcomes everyone under the sun to enjoy summer fun with LauderDeals, an extensive list of irresistible offers available now through September 30, 2021. With deals throughout Broward County’s 31 neighborhoods, LauderDeals (Sunny.org/LauderDeals) offers visitors and residents plenty of ways to indulge in the perfect getaway or staycation in the “Yachting Capital of the World.” Hotel Deals (Sunny.org/Plan-Your-Trip/ Deals-And-Coupons/Hotel-Deals) range from discounted room rates, offers for third or fourth nights free, resort and dining credits, free or discounted parking, complimentary upgrades, and more. Things To Do Deals (Sunny.org/ 18 | OutClique.com
Plan-Your-Trip/Deals-And-Coupons/Summer-2for-1) include 2-for-1 admission or discounted rates at attractions. Special LauderDeals offers are also available for Florida Residents and first responders and military at Sunny.org/ LauderDeals. “We invite visitors to indulge in a much-deserved getaway and local residents to vacation in their own backyard, where they can relax and recharge while taking advantage of LauderDeals savings to discover spectacular offerings you can only find here,” says Stacy Ritter, CEO and President of Visit Lauderdale. “This is a great time to enjoy a hotel stay and pair it with culture-rich experiences, fun family attractions, incredible dining options and some pampering, all at a discount.”
Beginning in August 2021, LauderDeals offers will expand with the addition of Dine Out Lauderdale, a collection of taste-tempting threecourse prix-fixe menus priced at $35 and $45; and Spa Days, signature treatments at resort and day spas, many with prices starting at $99. Dine Out Lauderdale is the perfect way for residents and visitors to explore new restaurants or revisit some of their favorite places that are offering special, limited-time menus. These restaurants are located throughout Greater Fort Lauderdale, so diners can work their way through the county’s eclectic culinary scene. From beautiful beach views to luxury, intimate settings, and from local, family-owned eateries to hidden gems, there are a variety of dining options to satisfy every palate. Visit Lauderdale’s highest priority continues to be the safety and well-being of visitors and residents. Locations throughout Greater Fort Lauderdale and its 31 cities are ensuring Safe + Clean experiences. Mask wearing policies vary inside local businesses, but are required on public transportation. Everyone is asked to keep a mask with them at all times and wear when social distancing can’t be maintained or when required. Plan your visit by exploring LauderDeals offers and by viewing Greater Fort Lauderdale’s 24 mile stretch of sand and surf via live beach webcams. About Greater Fort Lauderdale
Greater Fort Lauderdale boasts an average year-round temperature of 77˚F and has 3,000+ hours of annual sunshine and is known as the Venice of America and Yachting Capital of the World. Explore 4,000+ eateries, 300+ miles of navigable waterways, eight distinct beaches, a thriving arts and culture scene, craft breweries, rooftop bars, diving, fishing and other outdoor adventures, world-class shopping and boats, yachts and superyachts moored at the area’s many marinas – all conveniently located in the center of South Florida. Made of up 31 municipalities, the destination boasts more than 35,000 lodging accommodations at a variety of hotels, luxury spa resorts, and boutique properties reflecting a cosmopolitan vibe. Upon arrival at FLL Airport (Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport), it is just five minutes to the beach, Port Everglades, the Greater Fort Lauderdale/Broward County Convention Center, and downtown. Find trip planning inspiration at VisitLauderdale.com and follow @VisitLauderdale on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube. About Visit Lauderdale
Visit Lauderdale is the official destination marketing organization for Greater Fort Lauderdale and serves as the tourism department for Broward County, Florida. Visit Lauderdale promotes the area’s 31 municipalities to a global audience of leisure and business travelers as the ideal place for Everyone Under the Sun in recognition of the area’s diverse and welcoming vibe, and books conventions into the Greater Fort Lauderdale/Broward County Convention Center and area hotels and resorts. Find more information at VisitLauderdale.com and follow @VisitLauderdale on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and YouTube.
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Book online at www.aztecairways.com or call 954-601-3742 for more information.
Celebrating 20 Years of Gay Luxury Travel Around the World
Full Moon Dreams of Tahiti Cruise September 16-23, 2021
Private Charter of Windstar’s Wind Spirit
Papeete - Moorea - Raiatea - Taha’a - Bora Bora - Huahine
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Petra, Wadi Rum, and The Dead Sea
December 4-13, 2021
December 13-17, 2021
Cairo - Karnak - Nile River Cruise - Aswan - Luxor
Amman - Wadi Rum - Petra - The Dead Sea
Visit SourceEvents.com for information on all of our journeys. For more details and to reserve, call us at 305-672-9779 or email us at Reservations@SourceEvents.com Mention OutClique at the time of booking for special savings.
Photo Courtesy of Michael Johns
Some Like It Hot By John Hayden
A
new restaurant in Key West wants to be loved by you. Marylin’s Restaurant & Pub is an ode to the mid-20th century woman who simultaneously exuded sexiness and innocence, knew where the boundaries were and crossed them.
For entertainment, we all know that Gentlemen Prefer Blondes. Regular entertainers Jennifer McClain and Miss Bouvèé are (usually) as blonde as you can get. While normally performing at venues along Wilton Drive, Marylin’s lures them down to hit a high note with tourists and locals alike. Miss Bouvèé told us she was on board before the doors even opened. “I host bingo just up the street from the location that would become Marylin’s. I heard they were hoping to do drag shows and live entertainment, so I reached out to Rob.” She’s bringing a show you won’t see anywhere else in Key West. “I came up with the term Dragaret (Drag+Cabaret) about a year ago and have been using it to describe the type of show you would see when you come to my show. I wanted Saturday nights to be a fun vibe where people could come and hear their favorite songs sung live, but by a drag queen. Key West has tons of live music options, so it was key to make this show be different and offer something no one else in town was.” Saturday afternoons at Marylin’s has the only all-ages drag show on the island plus other shows in the evening and Sunday is for Drag Bingo. Marylin’s also brings in local musicians
during the week. Miss Bouvèé says it brings together all the things that make Key West so special. “I find that Key West is kind of a melting pot of cultures, ages, sexual orientations, and gender identities. I think it is so great that time and time again, I play shows in Key West where gay and straight, young and old, conservative and liberal, black and white, all coexist in this wonderful space called island life.” When you’re hungry after a day of fishing, sunning, or sightseeing, Something’s Got To Give. Key West culinary legend, Chef Brendan Orr has 20 years of experience on the island and is fixing up favorites. Start with spice rubbed yellowfin tuna or their grain bowl tuna salad. His local snapper is served with a mango salsa or you could try the spice seared gulf shrimp with smoked bacon, roasted mushrooms, and creole remoulade. If you want to pop in for a drink in the afternoon, they have a full bar and every day is happy hour from 1:00PM to 7:00PM and you can reserve space for large parties for you and all of your friends to enjoy dinner and the shows. Check out their website MarylinsKeyWest. com for the schedule of performers and a look at their menu. Once you go, you won’t need a Seven Year Itch before you’ll want to return.
Courtesy of Marilyn’s Restaurant & Pub
An icon of her stature deserves an iconic home and that’s exactly what she has. Marylin’s is located in Key West’s historic 320 Grinnell St. building, a couple blocks off Duval St. Built in 1929, around the same time Miss Monroe was born, the building is once again a Conch Republic hot spot. Owner Rob Patterson told OutClique the location is perfect because it’s a little off the beaten path. “It’s great for the neighborhood because we provide different entertainment than what you see on Duval.” Another benefit of being a short, couple minutes walk away is Marylin’s can do their own thing on big weekends. Rob hopes to be able to shut down the street and have big parties and performances for events like Tropical Heat and Fantasy Fest.
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Rosie’s Bar & Grill
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Photos Courtesy of Bar Rita Photos Courtesy of SRL Media
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Photos Courtesy of SRL Media
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The Pub Wilton Manors
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Matty’s Wilton Park
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Pride Soaring in the Wind By Cory David, Mr. Eagle Wilton Manors 2020/2021
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his month is focused on the history of Pride and Leather Pride Flags, and beginning our new Progress Pride Flag standard.
“The flag is composed of nine horizontal stripes of equal width. From the top and from the bottom, the stripes alternate black and royal blue. The central stripe is white. In the upper left quadrant of the flag is a large red heart. I will leave it to the viewer to interpret the colors and symbols.” – Creator Tony DeBlase Reactions to the original leather flag were mixed with the majority being positive reactions. Though, there were concerns, some even offended, by the lack of community involvement in the design. Today, this symbol is embraced by the general leather community. My interpretation is unconditional love, community, and family in leather and Levi. I have been told by many in our community that the heart must touch the white stripe to be a true Leather Pride Flag. Personal interpretation or truth? That’s up to each viewer. Pride Flag designer Gilbert Baker is challenged by his friend, Harvey Milk, to come up with a symbol in reflection of “the dawn of a new gay consciousness and freedom.” The Pride Flag implied influences by the great Judy Garland and the world peace, Flag of the Races , which both seems inspiring enough! The goal was to replace the pink triangle, a symbol of oppression created by the Nazis used to identify and stigmatize our community, with something positive, lifting, and inspiring. The 40 | OutClique.com
Photo credit: Sabino Paulicelli Photography
The Leather Pride Flag was first presented by DeBlase at the International Mister Leather Competition (IML) in 1989. The flag was quickly embraced by the gay and leather community. DeBlase let his true meaning of the design belong to the individual. Over the years there have been variations depending on the county, along with BDSM/fetish subculture which have their own variations.
first flag had eight stripes, with specific meaning to each color and were hand dyed and stitched by 13 volunteers for the 1978 Pride Parade in San Francisco, CA. Later that year Milk was assassinated and the demand for the rainbow flag greatly increased. Over the years the Pride Flag would be redesigned and different versions would surface worldwide. In 1979 the parade featured the final six stripe flag as we know it today. The Progress Pride Flag elements the Philadelphia and Trans Pride flags, bringing together awareness for marginalized people of color, trans individuals, those dealing with HIV/ AIDS, and those we have lost. Pride flags are represented in all areas of our community, transgender, lesbian, bear, genderfluid and so on. More than fabric of colors, they soar proud for the roads traveled and progress made.
Eagle Wilton Manors
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Feeling is Believing visit www.uberlube.com
Georgie’s Alibi Monkey Bar
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LeBoy
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Twins Are In An Interview with Stephen Neil and Jeff Neil of Synergy Twins By Gregg Shapiro Cover and article images Courtesy of Jonathan Givens, Entertainment Photography Specialists
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t’s truly remarkable how many twin musical acts exist out there. From Tegan and Sara to Will & Anthony, from Kim and Kelly Deal to Tim and Phil Hanseroth to The Watson Twins. Classical crossover act Synergy Twins also fit the bill; in case you didn’t get that from their name. Violin and viola virtuosos Stephen Neil and Jeff Neil aren’t just stringing us along either. With Hoda, Kathy Lee, and The Today Show gang among their biggest fans, the bearded brothers’ audience continues to grow in leaps and bounds. As Stephen explains it, “for several years we made a living headlining on cruise ships, but decided we did not want to become ‘cruise ship lifers.’ (During) the summer of 2017, we decided to take a huge risk and become full-time street musicians in downtown Greenville, South Carolina, where we achieved local notoriety for our street performances. We were able to pay our mortgages and bills each month for about a year off the generous donations of the public and launch our business quite literally from the ground up.” Stephen and Jeff were kind enough to answer a few additional questions about themselves and their music for OutClique. Gregg Shapiro: By calling your duo Synergy Twins you avoid the issue of billing. With that in mind, which one of you is older? Stephen Neil: Jeff. Jeff Neil: Stephen was supposed to be born first naturally, and at the last moment the doctor decided to perform an emergency C-section, so I was born two minutes before.
GS: At what age did you each start to play the
violin?
SN: When we were young, we found a violin
in a closet of our parents’ house. It happened to be made by our great-grandfather Harry Neil. He made his living as the town blacksmith in a small mining town called Garrett, Pennsylvania. His son (our grandfather) wanted to learn the violin, but as they were living during the Great Depression they could not afford one. Our
great-grandfather somehow was able to obtain a book on making violins, forged the tools he needed to make one, and made one for his son. He made five in total. Jeff and I own two. One is in a museum in Garrett, and two have been lost over the ages. We doubt we would be doing what we do today if it wasn’t for discovering the violin we found all those years ago!
GS: Do you remember the first song you learned to play on violin? SN: I can’t remember what came first, but “Hot
Cross Buns” and “Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star” were definitely among the first two we learned.
JN: I remember learning “Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star” first on viola.
GS: Were there other musical instruments that interested you or did the violin take precedence? SN: From the moment we discovered the violin
our great-grandfather made I knew that was the instrument I wanted to learn. I was not interested in piano, guitar, any instrument you could take in band class, or becoming a vocalist - I definitely only cared to learn the violin.
JN: For me, the viola took precedence. I did
start the clarinet a year later which has the same register as viola, but stopped after a year.
GS: How did the Synergy Twins get its name? SN: In 2009 we auditioned for America’s
Got Talent for the first time and needed a stage name. We were drinking wine with our family rummaging through dictionaries at our parents’ mountain house and came across the word “synergy.” We loved the definition (the interaction of elements that when combined produce a total effect that is greater than the sum of the individual elements, contributions) as we thought we had a stronger chance of making the show as the two of us than as individuals and the name stuck. However, it’s 2021, we’ve auditioned more times than we can count, and still have not made it on the show [laughs]! OutClique.com | 51
GS: Synergy Twins are purveyors of the musical
genre known as “classical crossover.” What do you like best about the genre?
SN: I love the idea of taking my classical training
and being able to use that to create something new on the violin that has widespread appeal. In my experience, the majority of people I meet do not understand the concept of a violin entertainer. Most are so used to thinking of the violin as purely a classical instrument meant to be played in orchestral settings and have no idea you could make it electric like a guitar. The violin/electric violin is extremely versatile. You can arrange almost any song in any style and add a little classical flair to it which is what I love most about the genre.
JN: I’m always on a quest to find the best sounds and create unique tones on the electric violin with all the different kinds of effects pedals available today. If I’m playing Led Zeppelin, I’m going to find a distortion pedal
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that makes my Viper (the brand of electric violin that I own) scream. Most effects pedals that have been created were intended for electric guitar players and not all sound well with an electric violin. Finding new pedals and creating new sounds that match the styles we play is definitely a passion of mine. I probably own too many pedals [laughs].
GS: In what ways do you think “classical
crossover” has evolved over the years?
SN: The genre started out as arranging classical
songs with techno, dance, pop, rock beats, etc. As it evolved it has come to include arranging rock songs from the ‘70s, ‘80s, American Top 40, and a host of other genres, adding a bit of classical flair to the arrangements.
GS: The Synergy Twins are known for the
eclectic variety of music you perform. How do you know that a song is a good fit for the Synergy Twins?
SN: First and foremost, for a song to translate
well and be adapted to the violin it needs to have a strong and interesting melody. I’ll try to provide an example of this. Taylor Swift is an incredible songwriter, extremely popular, and writes in many styles. The melody to her song “Look What You Made Me Do” stays on the same note a lot and does not have a lot of melodic variety which would sound boring and plain on a violin as opposed to her song “Love Story” which has a melodic line that translates beautifully on the violin. We try to pick songs from artists that we can arrange that we know will keep the audience engaged throughout the entire performance.
JN: We play for so many different audiences
and are continuing to learn more and more music to expand our set lists and keep fresh. Sometimes we learn new songs that we think will go over well, and don’t, so we retire them. Def Leppard’s “Pour Some Sugar on Me,” sadly, was removed years ago.
GS: Is there a style of music your fans would be
surprised to learn that you personally enjoy but have never performed?
SN: What I listen to in the comfort of my own home and what I play tend to be polaropposites. I love listening to Enya, Owl City, and other artists with relaxing qualities, but I would never perform their songs in a show. I actually toyed with the idea of performing Symphonie Espagnole by Lalo (a violin concerto) for a show, but the first movement alone is around seven minutes and I didn’t think it would go over well. I am still searching for the right classical violin showpiece to perform, so if anyone has any suggestions, I’m all ears [laughs]!
JN: We play a few classical tunes but
accompanied by tracks that give the music a rock feel, with drums and electric guitar. I believe our fans know we came from a classical background, but I bet they’d be surprised if I came out playing Bach’s Chaconne unaccompanied by any track,
as it was originally intended when it was written.
GS: Some of the coolest musicians are twins, such as Tegan and Sara, Tim and Phil Hanseroth (who write and perform with Brandi Carlile), and Kim and Kelley Deal (of The Breeders). Have the Synergy Twins ever performed songs by other sets of twins? If not, is that something you’d consider adding to your repertoire? SN: To my knowledge, we have never performed
songs by other sets of twins, but it is definitely an intriguing idea [laughs]! We are always looking for new musical ideas to influence our shows and I think you stumbled upon one we can use!
JN: That thought honestly never crossed my mind. Now that you mention it, I’m going to do some listening and find a song to cover that I think would work well on violin.
GS: The Synergy Twins have performed at Pride festivals in Lexington (KY, 2016 2017) and in Augusta (GA 2017), as well as at Wicked Manors in Wilton Manors. Please say something about your awareness of a following in the LGBTQ+ community, and what such a following means to you. SN: I, for one, love performing for LGBTQ+
audiences. I absolutely love the energy you get from them and they are very forgiving if you make a mistake on stage [laughs]. They just want to have a great time! One thing I’ve discovered from living part-time in Wilton Manors is that the entertainment community is so supportive of each other. I have had the pleasure of working with Dee Dee Van Carter, Antonio Edwards, LeNora Jaye, Jennifer McClain, Nicolette, Velvet Lenore – I’m sure there are more I’m forgetting, but we all go to each other’s shows to show support and it’s an incredible feeling.
GS: Do you have any kooky performance
stories you’d like to share?
SN: This is a fun cruise ship story. If you know 54 | OutClique.com
us, or have ever been to one of our shows, you know that we love to have fun! In the summer of 2019, we were sailing out of Quebec City, Canada, on a cruise ship and had the great, cocktail-inspired idea of recreating the iconic scene from Titanic where Jack and Rose are on the bow of the ship with their arms spread out looking into the distance. We had to go through two airlock doors to make it to the bow, knowing it probably wasn’t something we were supposed to do, but did it anyway! We took our violins and amp and recorded the song “My Heart Will Go On” during the sail away at sunset. Technically we could have been thrown off the ship, but the captain found the stunt hilarious and we were allowed to finish our three week contract aboard Holland America’s Zaandam.
GS: Once performance venues start to reopen in a post-pandemic world, what are you most looking forward to about live performance? SN: One of the greatest gifts being a live
performer has given me is the gift of travel. We have been blessed to travel and perform all over the world and have many “homes away from home” in the Caribbean, Alaska, places up and down the east coast of the U.S., and I look forward to being able to travel to these places and see our friends in each area as well as travel to new places and create more of these destinations.
JN: I found a home performing in the virtual
world when the pandemic hit. After performing live for 100% of our income for years, my goals changed and I wanted to switch gears to become a content creator for social media apps. Lindsay Stirling, The Piano Guys, and 2Cellos are probably the best examples of where I want to go. We were swamped with non-stop live performances pre-pandemic and achieving this goal was next to impossible. For me, I look forward to booking the high-paying events to be able to make ends meet, while having the time to focus on the content creation side of things at home. OutClique.com | 55
Good Coffee and Good Causes By Rod Davis, CEO BBB serving Southeast Florida and the Caribbean
B
eing a coffee guy, I enjoy trying different brands, new coffee shops, and ways to prepare the best cup of coffee at home. Businesses today are also doing great things to help our communities and causes, so we can enjoy a great cup of coffee and do good at the same time. We have several local businesses combining business goals with good causes that you might want to consider as you begin your search for that perfect cup of coffee. Brewed For You is a unique local business that sources organic coffee that promotes a healthier environment and product for us, the consumers. Eric Chaussé, the Founder of Brewed For You, spent a few minutes with me to talk about his goals for the business. Eric states, “I pride myself on bringing on individuals who have an eye for quality and
partnering with companies that care about the environment and delivering quality products to their customers.” Eric goes on to state, “All our coffees are proudly made in the USA.” In addition to providing gourmet coffee, Brewed For You’s coffees are kosher certified and, upon request, include compostable packaging in order to promote a healthier environment. I asked Eric, “If you could sum up your overall vision and mission for the company, what would they be?” Eric responded, “At Brewed For You, we believe in providing ’quality coffee to quality customers’ nationwide. At Brewed For You, we don’t just strive to uphold a high level of social responsibility, we aim to solve a problem. Our number one goal is to work with highvolume businesses and C-level executives by having them purchase quality coffee for their customers thereby enabling us to employ individuals who are disabled.” Visit their website OutClique.com | 57
at BrewedForYou.com to learn more about the business and learn how you can enjoy great coffee and support a great cause. Now that you have placed an order for coffee only to discover you don’t have the right equipment to create that perfect cup. Fortunately, Coffeeionado is here to solve that problem. Located in Davie, Coffeeionado started as a socially conscious business in 2016 to help bring premium coffee appliances to support personal and commercial use. Coffeeionado donates to nonprofits to help make meaningful changes in the industry. They want to assist coffee farmers with their crops and surrounding environment. As an added perk (sorry, but I couldn’t resist) they offer free delivery for orders over $199. So, if you need a new appliance to support your personal or business needs, check out Coffeeionado.com and talk to their advisors about your needs so they can help guide you to the best option. Some people are just not do-it-yourselfers. There are new options emerging every day
that combine great coffee with important causes. Circle House Coffee is a local shop started by NFL retiree Stephen Tulloch with the goal of serving great coffee, drinks, and food that provide a venue to bring together the community. You can check them out at CircleHouseCoffee.com. Maybe you want to have a cup of coffee and enjoy a movie, some music, or be entertained by The Big Gay Talent Show, Harold’s Coffee Shop is the place you may want to check out. In addition to combining events with great coffee, Harold’s sources their coffees with an emphasis on paying growers and farmers above fair trade pricing. You can check out the menu and entertainment schedule at HaroldsCoffee.com. The emergence of socially conscious businesses with combined goals of purpose and profit enables consumers to enjoy great goods and services, while supporting our communities. Time for a macchiato. Enjoy your coffee and support a cause important to you.
OutClique.com | 59
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. Your healthcare provider will test you for HBV. If you have both HIV-1 and HBV, your HBV may suddenly get worse if you stop taking BIKTARVY. Do not stop taking BIKTARVY without first talking to your healthcare provider, as they will need to check your health regularly for several months, and may give you HBV medicine. ABOUT BIKTARVY BIKTARVY is a complete, 1-pill, once-a-day prescription medicine used to treat HIV-1 in adults and children who weigh at least 55 pounds. It can either be used in people who have never taken HIV-1 medicines before, or people who are replacing their current HIV-1 medicines and whose healthcare provider determines they meet certain requirements. BIKTARVY does not cure HIV-1 or AIDS. HIV-1 is the virus that causes AIDS. Do NOT take BIKTARVY if you also take a medicine that contains: dofetilide rifampin any other medicines to treat HIV-1 POSSIBLE SIDE EFFECTS OF BIKTARVY BIKTARVY may cause serious side effects, including:
(bik-TAR-vee)
that may have been hidden in your body. Tell your healthcare provider if you have any new symptoms after you start taking BIKTARVY. Kidney problems, including kidney failure. Your healthcare provider should do blood and urine tests to check your kidneys. If you develop new or worse kidney problems, they may tell you to stop taking BIKTARVY. Too much lactic acid in your blood (lactic acidosis), which is a serious but rare medical emergency that can lead to death. Tell your healthcare provider right away if you get these symptoms: weakness or being more tired than usual, unusual muscle pain, being short of breath or fast breathing, stomach pain with nausea and vomiting, cold or blue hands and feet, feel dizzy or lightheaded, or a fast or abnormal heartbeat. Severe liver problems, which in rare cases can lead to death. Tell your healthcare provider right away if you get these symptoms: skin or the white part of your eyes turns yellow, dark “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, GILEAD, the GILEAD Logo, and LOVE WHAT’S INSIDE are trademarks of Gilead Sciences, Inc., or its related companies. Version date: February 2021 © 2021 Gilead Sciences, Inc. All rights reserved. BVYC0413 04/21
BBB Torch Awards Celebrating Ethical Businesses
Courtesy of BBB
By Rod Davis, CEO, BBB serving Southeast Florida and the Caribbean
A
fter a year in hiatus due to COVID, the BBB Torch Awards return on July 21, 2021, to recognize and celebrate businesses that understand the importance of trust with their customers and community that is best achieved through a culture of ethical practices.
2020 was a difficult year for everyone, but it was also a year when individuals and businesses stood out for being ethical business leaders with a mission powered by the vision of excellence. The BBB Torch Awards evaluates businesses based on the following standards:
For 37 years I have worked closely with large corporations like General Motors, Google, and smaller businesses like Nozzle Nolen and Essig Pools here in South Florida. What I have learned from interacting with them and monitoring the business world is that no business will be successful in the long run without an ethical framework integrated into the business to guide interactions with suppliers, customers, employees, and the community. What the best businesses have in common is a leader at the top of the organization who champions the mission of servant leadership and works continuously to keep the business running consistent with the mission of service to customers, communities, employees, and suppliers. During difficult times, businesses may feel pressure to cut corners and compromise. The BBB Torch Awards celebrate the businesses that continue to live up to their highest standards, especially when challenges arise.
Criteria 1: Character Leadership • How leaders strive to live and lead with high character and intentionally seek feedback in order to make personal improvements.
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•
How leaders empower staff to carry out the organization’s commitment to building and maintaining ethical business practices.
•
Tools, activities, or training that reinforce staff’s commitment to character ethics as part of the organization’s normal business practices.
Criteria 2: Culture • How leaders unite the team around the organization’s vision and mission statement. •
How leaders empower employees to help shape the expectations and culture of the organization.
•
What practices the company uses that demonstrates leadership’s commitment to individual employees.
Criteria 3: Customers • How the business empowers employees to proactively address issues experienced by customers.
•
Contribution of funds or in-kind services to community programs consistent with the organization’s values.
In addition to meeting these standards a business must meet other basic requirements: •
For profit and 501(c)(6) applicants must have a “B” rating with BBB;
•
How a business goes above and beyond to maintain transparency with customers.
•
•
Demonstrated instances where a business commitment to honesty was a positive differentiator in a challenging customer interaction.
501(c)(3) non-profit applicants must complete the Charitable Standards Evaluation process and meet all BBB Standards for Charity Accountability;
•
Organizations must have been in business for three years;
•
All financial obligations must be met;
•
Applicants are not eligible if they have received the Torch Award in the past five years;
•
Government agencies are not eligible to submit an application.
Criteria 4: Community • Programs or events that the organization has in place to actively engage with the community. •
How employees are encouraged to and recognized for spending time in community service activities that the organization and employees value.
OutClique.com | 67
The Feet are the Foundation of the Body
E
ach foot is made up of 26 small bones that contribute and allow your body to be in the upright position, they absorb shock, allow you to ambulate and perform physical activities. They are very complex parts of your body and require expert care. Foot care is particularly important if you have diabetes. Foot problems are a common complication of this condition. If you experience any of these symptoms, make sure to schedule an appointment with Care Resource’s Podiatrist. •
• • • • • • • • •
Pain in your legs or cramping in your buttocks, thighs, or calves during physical activity. Tingling, burning, or pain in your feet. Loss of sense of touch or ability to feel heat or cold very well. A change in the shape of your feet over time. Loss of hair on your toes, feet, and lower legs. Dry, cracked skin on your feet. A change in the color and temperature of your feet. Thickened, yellow toenails. Fungus infections such as athlete’s foot between your toes. A blister, ulcer, infected corn, or ingrown toenail.
According to Sandra Lee Franco, DPM, MS, Podiatric Surgeon with Care Resource, “Many people with diabetes experience complications with their feet. You can have nerve damage in any part of your body, but nerves in your feet and legs are most often affected. Nerve damage can cause you to lose feeling in your feet. Nerve damage, along with poor blood flow puts you at risk for developing a foot ulcer that could get infected. If an infection doesn’t get better with treatment, your toe, foot, or part of your leg may need to be amputated.”
Sandra Lee Franco, DPM, MS, Podiatric Surgeon Photo Courtesy of Care Resource
Foot problems can be avoided if you take care of your feet and act quickly when you have a problem. Our podiatrist works directly with your primary care physician to diagnose and treat conditions that affect this area of your body. Get your feet examined to detect problems early and help prevent complications. To make a medical appointment, call 305-576-1234 – Extension #470 (English) or #471 (Spanish). Through education, prevention, research, care and treatment and support services, Care Resource improves upon the health and overall quality of life of our diverse South Florida communities in need. For more information, visit CareResource.org.
OutClique.com | 77
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World’s First “Progress Pride” in Public Bus Debuted in Palm Beach County
In honor of LGBTQ+ Pride month, Palm Tran, the public transit system serving Palm Beach County, rolled out its “Ride with Pride” bus. Throughout this past month of June, the “Ride with Pride” bus operated [almost] daily along Palm Tran’s Route 1. With close to 200 stops, Route 1 is Palm Tran’s longest and most visible route, running from Palm Beach Gardens to Boca Raton, in great part along U.S. Highway 1. While buses decorated in the colors of the iconic Rainbow Pride Flag have operated around the world for more than a dozen years, Palm Tran’s “Ride with Pride” bus was the world’s first public bus to be fully wrapped with the 11 colors of the Progress Pride Flag. Representing people of color, trans, nonbinary, and those living with HIV/AIDS, black, brown, light blue, pink, and white stripes are incorporated into the Progress Pride Flag, along with the six colors of the iconic Rainbow Flag. “I am extremely proud of the talented and diverse employees we have at Palm Tran,” said Clinton B. Forbes, Palm Tran’s Executive Director. “This bus further highlights our long-standing commitment to equality for everyone.”
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Emergency care is just a call away. Emergencies can’t wait, so please do not delay care. Because your safe care is our #1 priority, we are now offering Tele-ER visits so you can speak with an ER physician without leaving home. It only takes two steps: 1. Call 1-833-4-TELE-ER to schedule an appointment. A nurse or member of our emergency team will ask you about your health problem and complete your registration. 2. Prepare your smartphone, tablet or computer for the Zoom call. You will be sent a link at the time of your appointment. Using a laptop or desktop, click on the link or enter the meeting ID at https://zoom. us/join. If using a smartphone or tablet, please download the Zoom app and enter the meeting ID at the time of your appointment.
To schedule a Tele-ER visit, call
1-833-4-TELE-ER (8353-37) For life-threatening emergencies, call 911 or go to the nearest ER.
OUR HEARTFELT CONDOLENCES
We at the Broward County Cultural Division extend our heartfelt condolences to the Fort Lauderdale Gay Men’s Chorus and to their friends and families following the tragic incident at the Stonewall Pride Parade on Saturday, June 19, 2021. We are deeply saddened by this tragic loss to our community. Especially now, we encourage all of you to lend your support to members and friends of the chorus. Photo Courtesy of Broward County Cultural Division
Food For Thought By John Hayden
From isolation, to health, to food insecurity, everyone has faced unexpected challenges over the past year and a half. Sunshine Cathedral, known for aiding anyone in need, is helping another organization help others. That organization is The Salvation Army. “People know The Salvation Army, they get a lot of people coming by there looking for food,” Rev. Dr. Anne Atwell told OutClique. “I saw the press release they sent to a number of folks saying [their] shelves are pretty much bare, [they] don’t have much of anything and there’s a huge need.” As Sunshine Cathedral’s Minister of Connections, Anne reached out and offered assistance. “I knew that we could do something, we could help in some way. So I offered 100 brown bag lunches to see if that would be helpful to them. They responded almost immediately, ‘yes this is wonderful.’” With a sandwich, crackers, a fruit cup and water, the bag lunches are similar to what the church distributes to people who stop by in person looking for a little help. “Part of our food sharing ministry [philosophy] is ‘no questions, no judgments,’” she said. And that philosophy was put to a test with this call for help. “There was a little reticence at first because The Salvation Army, the first thing I think of is they tend to be a homophobic organization.” Rev. Anne says the reality of hunger is more important than perceived differences. “My thought is, doing the work we do, need is need. If somebody is hungry I’m going to do what I can to make sure they get something to eat.” Rev. Anne says the local Salvation Army told her they differ from the national organization in that sexual orientation and status is a nonissue. She hopes this is the start of building a relationship with a group often seen as unaccepting. “It was affirming to us that we could possibly partner with them in other things. It’s baby steps right now. We gave them 100 lunches and we’re going to do that every month.”
Honoring the People’s Mayor By John Hayden
T
he late Wilton Manors Mayor Justin Flippen loved nature and visiting parks. He would visit national parks and feel just as at home as he would walking down Wilton Drive. Now Wilton Drive is home to a park bearing his name. On April 17, 2021, the park across the street from Wilton Manors City Hall was renamed in his honor.
Several proposals were suggested, and a choice that didn’t recognize Mayor Flippen by name was approved by the city’s Parks and Recreation Advisory Board. Board member Carl Shearer had been working closely with Justin and says he worked with the city to keep up the fight. “Acting Mayor Green and the Commissioners did reject the Park and Recreation Board’s naming recommendation. Acting Mayor Green took an emotional decisive recommendation to re-name Jaycee Park to Justin Flippen Park and received full Commissioner support.” While the effort took more than a year, much of which was because friends wanted to wait until the pandemic subsided enough so that more people could come to the dedication, including Justin’s family who are grateful to everyone for their hard work. For his friends Carl and Julie, it was a labor of love. “I was drawn to Justin,” Julie told OutClique, “as I believe he was me, because of our shared commitment to personal honor, authenticity, love of family, mentorship of children, and assurance of the good value of a life in public service.”
Photo Courtesy of JMH Creative
The park at 2109 Wilton Drive was long known as Jaycee Park because the Jaycees maintained it in the mid-20th century before the city took over. The process to rename the park was already underway when Mayor Flippen died suddenly in February, 2020. His friend and colleague Julie Carson says she dedicated herself to honoring Justin. “When I spoke at Justin’s memorial service, I made a personal commitment to family and friends that I would do my part in ensuring that Justin’s legacy continued through the dedication of Jaycee Park in his name and memory.”
Carl concurs, “Justin was just special, period! So hard to describe, but he oozed love for his city, kids and the community, and for me, his passing was truly like losing a brother, and only time will ease the healing process. I know I am blessed like so many in the city that he touched.” OutClique.com | 95
Photo Courtesy of Marty Kiar’s office
Veterans Receiving the Full Exemption for Service-Connected Total and Permanent Disability May Be Eligible for a Refund A recent change in Florida law allows for certain disabled veterans to receive a property tax refund. While the refund requirements are very specific, some property owners receiving the Full Veteran’s Exemption for Total and Permanent Service-Connected Disability may be eligible for a refund on their new homesteaded property’s taxes. Effective tax year 2021, homesteaded property owners receiving the Full Veteran’s Exemption for Total and Permanent Service Connected Disability on a newly acquired Florida property – who also received the Full Exemption for Total and Permanent Service Connected Disability on another Florida property in the immediately preceding tax year – may be eligible to receive a partial refund of the ad valorem taxes paid for the newly acquired property in the year the property is acquired, prorated as of the date of transfer of ownership. If you believe you are eligible to receive this prorated refund, please contact our office at (954) 357-6035 or email us at CSEmgmt@BCPA.net.
BCPA Outreach Returning to Governmental Center West Our Mobile Exemption & Information Team has returned to the Governmental Center West located at 1 North University Drive in Plantation on Wednesdays from 12:00 – 2:00PM. Our staff is available to assist residents with filing for any exemption and is available to answer any property questions you may have. To view all our upcoming events, please visit Web. BCPA.net/ExemptionsExpress/Calendar. To schedule a virtual visit from the safety of your home, please visit our website at Web.BCPA. net/VirtualVisits. The absolute deadline for applying for any 2021 exemption is September 20, 2021. Take care,
Marty Kiar, CFA Broward County Property Appraiser
Marty Kiar is the Broward County Property Appraiser and longtime advocate for LGBTQ equality. The Broward County Property Appraiser’s Office is located at 115 S Andrews Avenue, Room # 111, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33301 Follow our office at: facebook.com/MartyKiarBCPA and twitter.com/MartyKiarBCPA OutClique.com | 101
Avi Ram Birthday Party at Hunters Nightclub Wilton Manors
Photos Courtesy of SRL Media 106 | OutClique.com
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More photos at www.Facebook.com/OutClique
Holy Mackerel Brewery
Photos Courtesy of SRL Media
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More photos at www.Facebook.com/OutClique OutClique.com | 107
Fundraiser for Ronnie Larsen
Photos Courtesy of SRL Media 108 | OutClique.com
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More photos at www.Facebook.com/OutClique
Protecting Those That Protect Us
A
By John Hayden
Emergency rescue has come a long way from just connecting a hose to a hydrant or grabbing the “Jaws of Life” to free a trapped person. Of course effective equipment comes with a cost, and Coral Springs Fire Chief Mike McNally is working to help South Floridians understand that when every second counts, every dollar counts. Recently they dressed members of the Parkland City Commission and administrators in fire rescue gear and put them through their paces. “It’s to give the commission an understanding of what it is that we do,” Mike told OutClique, “plus the tools and equipment we utilize.” It’s called Fire Ops 101, and a thrilling video of the new equipment in action shows just some of the work that we usually never see. “I was able to perform search and rescue with my colleagues,” Parkland Commissioner Nancy Metayer said after the training. “I was able to maneuver through a building that’s on fire, also rescue a patient out of an elevator shaft, and ensure they got all the resources and attention they needed for a successful recovery.” Chief McNally says the day of training turns a line on a budget resolution into a tangible reality. “It gives the commission an understanding of what it is that we do, plus the tools and equipment we utilize.” Parkland City Commissioner Joy Carter says the experience reinforced how money spent today can save lives tomorrow. “I often think like most residents and say, ‘Why do we have the shiniest?,’ ‘Why do we have the newest?,’
Photo credit: City of Coral Springs
driver lies bleeding in their wrecked car. A person is trapped inside a raging fire. A co-worker has a heart attack in the middle of the office. These situations seem thrilling when they’re playing out in TV shows and movies, but they’re part of daily life for firefighters, EMTs, and other first responders who show up right away when everything is going wrong. Thanks to their skill and new technology, these life-ordeath situations end in life more than ever.
and ‘Why do we have the best?’ If you think about it, technology does change frequently. Equipment that may have weighed 120 pounds, so it took a lot more effort and a lot more time, and time is critical when you’re trying to extricate somebody from a vehicle or a building.” Chief McNally told OutClique about some of the gear making a difference every day. Some equipment ran on hydraulics, and range was limited by the length of the hose and took time to set up, while battery powered gear is ready to go as soon as it arrives. Another is called a Lucas Device, which performs CPR automatically, giving the precise amount of pressure and repetitions. The Lucas Device not only ensures proper procedure, it also frees up a responder to help other victims. While Fire Ops 101 can’t be given to everyone, Chief McNally says there are plenty of ways people can assist with public safety. His group does public education and CPR training, and he’s a big proponent of an app called Pulse Point. Once you’re CPR certified, you can register and if an emergency happens near you, you are notified on your phone so you can help. OutClique.com | 109
“Leaving” an Impression
an Interview with Lesbian Writer Lauren Hough By Gregg Shapiro Photos Courtesy of Vintage Books & Anchor Books | The Knopf Doubleday Group
M
emoirs are a tricky form of writing. Remember James Frey and A Million Little Pieces? Nevertheless, memoirs are also an endless source of fascination for readers and Leaving Isn’t the Hardest Thing (Vintage, 2021) by Lauren Hough is definitely fascinating. Raised in the notorious Children of God cult, Hough’s rough-and-tumble life during that time period, as well as in the years that followed, is nothing less than astonishing. From her time in the armed forces to her stints as a bouncer at
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the beloved DC gay disco Badlands, and working as a cable installer, as well as jail time served, readers will marvel at her ability to write about her experiences in such a clear and inviting manner. Hough was kind enough to answer a few questions in advance of the publication of her book.
Gregg Shapiro: Were the essays in Leaving
Isn’t the Hardest Thing written in the order in which they appear in the book?
Lauren Hough: No, but I couldn’t tell you the order either. Some of the essays began as one and a digression turned into a separate essay, or the digression was the essay and I had to go back and delete 90% of the first draft, or keep one sentence that turned into another essay. It’s as fun as it sounds [laughs]. The Badlands essay about working at a club was my white whale for several months. I just couldn’t find a way in. The great thing about Twitter is I’ve made friends with writers who are incredibly generous. I could send an essay that might as well have been a few post-it notes to people, like Sandra Newman and Heather Havrilesky, who could tell me I’d made it too complicated, again. And the jail essay, I simply didn’t want to write it. I didn’t want to have to think about it long enough to write it. As it was, I kept having to get up and stand outside, just to remind myself I could. GS When did you realize you had a book?
LH I think I always knew I had
a book. I spent a long time not writing it, and writing anything else. I tried songwriting. I thought maybe instead of writing a book, I’d be the lesbian Townes Van Zandt. But, I’m lousy at guitar, and Mary Gauthier already has that covered. I wrote half of a few novels that sound exactly like someone else. It wasn’t until I started writing about my life that I started sounding like me.
GS The “leaving” theme, including the Children
of God cult, the military, and your girlfriends Rhonda and Autumn, is one of the threads that stitches the essays together. Do you think this personal history would have been different if you hadn’t spent your formative years in Children of God?
LH They do call them formative years [laughs].
It’s impossible to say who or what or where I’d be, who I’d be with, what my life would look like if I’d grown up any different. It’s one of those thoughts that’ll keep you up at night, make you reach for your drug of choice, or write a book trying to unravel and understand it all. I
think it’s safe to say I might have had healthier relationships earlier had I not been raised in a cult.
GS You mention murdered gay soldier Barry
Winchell a couple of times, and refer to other victims of homophobic violence, including Matthew Shepard, Brandon Teena, and Arthur Warren. Would it be fair to say that your experiences in both Children of God and the military also made you hyper-aware of the potential for harm to LGBTQ+ people?
LH I think most queer people are hyper-aware
of the threats out there. Some are definitely more sheltered. That used to anger me. It’s one of the less attractive human traits, the need to be pissed at those who have it better. Runs right alongside being pissed at those who have it worse, who might be allowed a little sympathy. It’s beautiful that we live in a world where not every queer kid is raised to be ashamed, not tortured. Unfortunately, it’s still a world wherein we do have to be aware of the threats. I think it’s important we remember the price some paid, that we recognize how easily the freedoms we enjoy can be taken, that if we have a voice, we use it to fight for and protect those who don’t.
GS If there was a movie
version of Leaving Isn’t the Hardest Thing, who would you want to play you?
LH I don’t know. I’ve had some shockingly bad
hair phases. I’d hate for anyone to have to spend a year growing out a yellow mohawk.
GS Have you started writing or thinking about your next book?
LH I have an idea for it. I’ve started writing sentences. I’ve even written a paragraph or two. But, if I’ve learned anything it’s that what I think will be the next book will in no way resemble the book I write.
OutClique.com | 111
Gerard-Schwarz Photo Credit: VanHouten Photography
Palm Beach Symphony Announces 2021-22 Season Masterworks Series Music Director Gerard Schwarz to conduct and welcome pianists Hélène Grimaud, Yefim Bronfman, Maria João Pires, violinist Midori, and clarinetist Jon Manasse as guest artists to the Symphony’s first five-concert series presented live at the Kravis Center for the Performing Arts
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alm Beach Symphony has announced its upcoming 2021-22 Season featuring many of today’s most celebrated musicians as pianists Hélène Grimaud, Yefim Bronfman, Maria João Pires, violinist Midori, and clarinetist Jon Manasse join Music Director Gerard Schwarz at the podium and the Symphony in a season of five Masterwork Series concerts that for the first time will all be performed at the Kravis Center for the Performing Arts in West Palm Beach. “Our successful current season that we are presenting via livestream to audiences in more than a dozen states as well as abroad has continued to build our momentum and 112 | OutClique.com
encouraged us to create an ambitious 202122 season,” said Palm Beach Symphony CEO David McClymont. “Our acclaimed Music Director Gerard Schwarz has designed captivating programs and recruited many of his past collaborators and other renowned artists to welcome live audiences back to the concert hall.” “Returning to performing before live audiences is something of a rebirth and we have put together a Renaissance season,” said Maestro Schwarz. “The season celebrates the enduring power of many of the great masterworks, including an entire concert devoted to Mozart’s brilliant compositions in the last year of his life, while we also rejoice in being together again
with the shared thrill of discovery in seldom heard works.” Five-concert Masterworks Series subscription packages begin at $100 are on sale now. Subscriptions will be available online at
PalmBeachSymphony.org; by phone at (561) 281-0145; or by visiting the Palm Beach Symphony Box Office, Monday-Friday from 10:00AM – 3:00PM. The Kravis Center is located at 701 Okeechobee Boulevard in West Palm Beach.
Masterworks Series #1 – Sunday, November 7, 2021, at 3:00PM Guest Artist: Hélène Grimaud, piano Program: Schumann: Piano Concerto in A minor, Op. 54 Valerie Coleman: Umoja Tchaikovsky: Symphony No. 5 in E minor, Op. 64, TH. 29 Hélène Grimaud Photo Credit: Mat Hennek
Masterworks Series #2 – Thursday, December 2, 2021, at 7:30PM Guest Artists: Jon Manasse, clarinet; Robyn Marie Lamp, soprano; Robynne Redmon, mezzo-soprano, Jason Ferrante, tenor; Richard Ollarsaba, bass Guest Chorus: Master Chorale of South Florida Program: ‘Mozart’s Last Year’ Clarinet Concerto in A Major, K. 622 Requiem in D minor, K. 626 Ave Verum Corpus, K. 618 Overture to The Magic Flute (Die Zauberflöte), K. 620 Jon Manasse Photo Credit: Palm Beach Symhony
Masterworks Series #3 – Monday, January 10, 2022, at 7:30PM Guest Artist: Yefim Bronfman, piano Program: Rachmaninov: Piano Concerto No. 3 in D minor, Op. 30 Liadov: Kikimora, Op. 63 Shostakovich: Symphony No. 5 in D minor, Op. 47
Yefim Bronfman Photo Credit: Dario Acosta
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Masterworks Series #4– Monday, March 7, 2022, at 7:30PM Guest Artist: Maria João Pires, piano Program: Beethoven: Piano Concerto No. 3 in C minor, Op. 37 Mahler: Symphony No. 4 in G major
Maria João Pires Photo Credit: May Zircus
Masterworks Series #5 – Sunday, April 10, 2022, at 3:00PM Guest Artist: Midori, violin Program: Korngold: Violin Concerto in D major, Op. 35 William Schuman: New England Triptych Dvořák: Symphony No. 8 in G major, Op. 88
Midori Photo Credit: Timothy Greenfield-Sanders
For more info on Palm Beach Symphony’s upcoming 2021-22 concert season, visit OutClique.com and search for “Palm Beach Symphony 2021-22” in the search bar. All dates, times, programs, artists, and venues are subject to change without notice.
About Palm Beach Symphony Palm Beach Symphony is South Florida’s premier orchestra known for its diverse repertoire and commitment to community. Founded in 1974, this 501(c)(3) nonprofit arts organization adheres to a mission of engaging, educating, and entertaining the greater community of the Palm Beaches through live performances of inspiring orchestral music. The orchestra is celebrated for delivering spirited performances by first-rate musicians and distinguished guest artists. Recognized by The Cultural Council for Palm Beach County with a 2020 Muse Award for Outstanding Community Engagement, Palm Beach Symphony continues to expand its education and community outreach programs with children’s concerts, student coaching sessions and master classes, instrument donations, and free public concerts that have reached more than 50,000 students in the past five years. For more information, visit PalmBeachSymphony.org. About Gerard Schwarz Internationally recognized for his moving performances, innovative programming, and extensive catalogue of recordings, Maestro Schwarz is also the Music Director of the All-Star Orchestra, Eastern Music Festival, and Mozart Orchestra of New York. Also in South Florida, he is the Distinguished Professor of Music, Conducting, and Orchestral Studies at University of Miami’s Frost School of Music, and Music Director of the Frost Symphony Orchestra. His considerable discography of more than 350 albums showcases his collaborations with some of the world’s greatest orchestras and, in 2017, Naxos released The Gerard Schwarz Collection, a 30-CD box set of previously unreleased or limited release works spanning his entire recording career. In addition to being the first American named Conductor of the Year by Musical America, his hundreds of honors and accolades include seven Emmy Awards, 14 GRAMMY nominations, eight ASCAP Awards, and the Ditson Conductor’s Award from Columbia University.
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Jennifer McClain & Steven Edgar Ross-Dybash at Scandals Saloon
Photos Courtesy of SRL Media
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FAB is Back
By John Hayden
Photo courtesy of Funding Arts Broward
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fter a year of dark theaters the marquee lights are turning back on and the local arts scene is returning stronger than ever thanks to the work and passion of groups like Funding Art Broward (FAB). The organization is a non-profit, volunteer-based group of arts ambassadors. The money they take in from dues and corporate sponsorships is given back in grants to local performance troupes. Even in a year when things were tough all over, FAB managed to give out more than $276,000 and created their Education Grant dedicated to art appreciation and development for elementary and high school students. Ed Hashek, FAB’s President, told OutClique the work was needed more than ever. “The arts were really hit.” Usually the money is earmarked to help groups and theaters bring performances to life. This past year the grants were a lifeline for survival. “We immediately went to our grantees and said your grants are there for you to use however you need them. They are for your sustainability.” FAB is funded in part by its dues-paying members and is a very social group, and keeping that fellowship intact was key to making 2020-2021 a successful year. “We had a steep learning curve. How do you make [virtual events] informative? How do you make them exciting?” FAB’s one employee became a producer. From learning how to create engaging content for a discerning arts-loving crowd to maximizing platforms like Zoom, FAB kept its community together. Now that in-person gatherings are back, Ed says social events will include very cool events. “For me it’s enjoying the experience. We’re excited because we’re gonna have some first-hand views of the Parker Playhouse in the fall as one of our social events for FAB. Going to any performance there is just a joy.”
Like many of us, Ed moved here from “up north.” “We knew about sun and fun, restaurants, and going to bars. That’s what we knew.” Discovering the arts scene through FAB helped him make South Florida home. “Not having a real extensive friendship network, meeting members of FAB has been great. What I love about the organization is the people I’ve met. There are some incredible, passionate people that I’ve met from FAB.” There are many well-known and wellpublicized venues like Broward Center for the Performing Arts, but there are plenty of smaller stages like Island City Stage and groups like Brazillian Voices and The Girl Choir of South Florida. “There are so many organizations that exist here in the county. Who knew there were that many in Broward County?” Ed also serves as President of Island City Stage and loves that it’s become an important part of Wilton Manors and says there is so much to love in the Wilton area. “South Florida Pride Wind Ensemble is a great organization. Sometimes it wells you up because volunteers support LGBT students in high school performing together.” Not all the grants go to Broward groups and theaters. Some organizations like Florida Grand Opera and others from Miami-Dade also get help from FAB. “What we fund are performances in Broward. We consider them vital to the arts scene in Broward County.” Since starting in 2003 FAB has given nearly four million dollars in grants. Ed has advice for anyone looking to support local artists. “Consider joining FAB. It’s one very direct way because most of our members are very active.” You can learn more about FAB’s work and how to join by going to their website at FundingArtsBroward.org. OutClique.com | 117
ArtsCalendar.com
South Florida’s guide to arts, culture, events and experiences.
Photo Courtesy of Hans Beimler
Official Declaration of “Born This Way Day” To Celebrate 10-Year Anniversary of Lady Gaga’s Iconic Album
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n May 23, 2021, Lady Gaga’s iconic album Born This Way celebrated its 10 year anniversary. To commemorate and recognize its cultural impact, the City of West Hollywood has officially declared May 23 as “Born This Way Day,” and is celebrating with a street painting on Robertson Blvd in tribute to the LGBTQIA+ community and the album.
to the City to Lady Gaga with a note of thanks: “Thank you for encouraging us to love ourselves and be proud!” Concurrent with the unveiling of the colorful street painting is the kickoff of Pride season in West Hollywood with the annual One City One Pride LGBTQ Arts Festival, which runs from Harvey Milk Day (May 22) through the end of June Pride month (June 30).
When it was originally released in 2011, Born This Way shattered records around the world. To date, the album has more than 5.8 billion global streams, 5.2 million physical albums sold, and 31 million digital tracks sold. Born This Way was Lady Gaga’s first #1 album and it debuted at #1 in 25 countries. It was named one of Rolling Stone’s 500 Greatest Albums of All Time and is Certified 4X Platinum in the U.S.
The Haus of Gaga has put together a series of surprises that will roll out over the next month to celebrate 10 years of the album, the community of fans around the world, and of course Lady Gaga herself. The anniversary celebration will include a very special collection of tracks from the album reimagined by prominent artists from the LGBTQIA+ community and allies, as well as various partnerships, products, and merchandise that will be announced shortly. In addition, the Born This Way Foundation is working closely with New York and Youth Pride, sending goods and monetary donations along with notes of kindness to LGBTQIA+ centers across the United States to assist in their Pride celebrations.
The City of West Hollywood and its Mayor Lindsey P. Horvath has officially declared May 23 as “Born This Way Day ‘’ and is celebrating with a street painting on Robertson Blvd in tribute to the LGBTQIA+ community and the album. Mayor Horvath also presented a Key 120 | OutClique.com
GFLGLCC at Hyatt Centric Las Olas
Photos Courtesy of SRL Media 122 | OutClique.com
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Summer WITH THE
Live chamber music concerts in Ft. Lauderdale and Miami SAINT-SAËNS | ZWILICH Ft. Lauderdale: Sun., July 18 at 7:30pm Miami: Thurs., July 22 at 7:30pm
Center for Spiritual Living Ft. Lauderdale 4849 N Dixie Highway Oakland Park Temple Israel of Greater Miami 137 NE 19th Street Miami
SPECIAL TICKET OFFER: $20 WITH CODE OUTCLIQUE20 AT CHECKOUT 954.522.8445 | southfloridasymphony.org
artists+Identity Exhibition On View Thru Sun., August 15, 2021 Artists and Identity: Portraiture, Performance, Doppelgängers, and Disguise takes a multilevel approach to understand the presentation and expression of oneself in contemporary art. Both playful and poetic, each of these artists conveys representations or misrepresentations of persona through painting, sculpture, video, performance.
Participating Artists:
Mequitta Ahuja, Lex Barberio, Nash Glynn, Martine Gutierrez, Loie Hollowell, Annie Leibovitz, Helina Metaferia, Christina Pettersson, Terence Price II, Lucas Samaras, Cindy Sherman, Antonia Wright, with archives from the Felix Gonzalez-Torres Family Archive
Also On View: Mark Fleuridor: Black Castor Oil an Oolite Arts Collaboration Masks: From the Faces of the World Collection of Dr. Donna L. Goldstein
For more information visit ArtandCultureCenter.org
1650 Harrison Street Hollywood, FL 33020 954. 921. 3274 ArtAndCultureCenter.org
BowOitzhe a musical dragaret
@ Matty's 2100 2100 WILTON WILTON DRIVE DRIVE WILTON WILTON MANORS, MANORS, FL FL
Fridays 8:00pm to 11:00pm
Volunteer Ushers Play a Vital Role!
J
oin our team and meet exciting people who share your passion for live entertainment, while giving back to the community. Ushers help welcome our audiences, make them feel at home and ensure that everything runs smoothly from lights up to curtains down.
APPLY TODAY! PHONE
954.468.2684
volunteer@browardcenter.org
WEB
BrowardCenter.org/USHER
The curtain will rise again. Join us on our journey. BrowardCenter.org/R2R
AUGUST 29 Au-Rene Theater
TICKETS at BrowardCenter.org The Broward Center 2021-2022 seasons are presented by the Broward Performing Arts Foundation