OutClique Magazine June 2023

Volume 7, Issue 7 June 2023

Gay Men’s Chorus of South Florida JUNE 24 & 25 • THE PARKER

© DISNEY

Inclusive.

June is LGBT Pride Month. It’s a time to celebrate the many achievements and contributions by the LGBTQ community. At Jackson Health System, we are committed to the diverse groups we serve, as well as providing expert health care. We respect the unique concerns and needs of our LGBTQ patients, families, visitors, and employees. Our staff is trained in family-centered care, ensuring an inclusive and supportive care and work environment for everyone. From the moment you arrive, you’ll feel welcomed by our Jackson team.

Visit JacksonHealth.org to learn more about our leading role in LGBTQ health care.

Jackson Health System is proud to be recognized as an “LGBTQ Healthcare Equality Top Performer” by the Human Rights Campaign (HRC) Foundation.

Learn more at JacksonHealth.org.

OPEN DOOR. OPEN MIND.

Real Estate Bankruptcy Wills & Trusts Landlord / Tenant Probate & Estates Foreclosure Defense Business Transactions

Dean J. Trantalis, ESQ Attorney at Law 2301 Wilton Drive, Suite C1-A, Wilton Manors, FL 33305

954.566.2226 Dean@trantalis.com | TrantalisLaw.com The hiring of a lawyer is an important decision that should not only be based on advertisements. Before you decide ask the lawyer to send you free written information about their qualifications and experience.

Dear Readers, Pride. Celebration. Class. Style. Thankfulness.

Endurance. Vision. Party. Family. Love.

These are just some of the words that come to mind when I think of June - the month dedicated to celebrate who we are as a community.

Friends, we cannot take this for granted. Some days I wonder what strange movie I am in and who wrote the plot. I listen to the things some of our “leaders” are saying, making it OK to take us decades back in time as a culture. This is the time to do something or say something, so we will not be put back into the shadows.

But I think also on this. I have the awesome privilege to live and work in this amazing place called - South Florida. I sit here with the doors open. I can almost smell the sunshine.

Friend, no matter what happens “out there,” the joy I have “in here” cannot be taken away. No one can stand in the way of your goals, your dreams, and who you want to be.

Take pride today, the month of June, and looking ahead.

This is a place for Everyone Under the Sun. May happiness be abounding.

Dr. Steven

1

2

1 Dr. Angela Easterday-Holder, former Chair and Professor of Music at Carson-Newman University and choir member Immanuel Baptist Church, Lexington, KY (www.ibclex.org) 2 Dr. Jane McEldowney Jensen, doctoral supervisor. Director of Graduate Studies, Educational Policy Studies & Education. University of Kentucky, College of Education. Dissertation title: 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.

Your summer travel starts with

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your airport connection Traveling this summer? Tri-Rail can get you on your way with train service to major South Florida airports. Fares are as low as $5 plus it’s convenient with direct service to MIA and free connecting service to FLL and PBI.

TRI-RAIL.COM • 1-800-TRI-RAIL

O UTC LIQUE Steven O. Evans, PhD

Publisher and Editor in Chief Steven@OutClique.com

Connie Evans

Chief Copy Editor Mother of the Publisher

Sach AD Group

Director of Graphic Design

Chandler Scott

Director of Social Media Assistant to the Publisher

Will White

Senior Associate Editor

Jason Eakin

Director of Distribution

Nick Coltharp

Sales Manager Distribution Manager

Rivendell Media

National Advertising

Denny Patterson

Senior Lifestyle Writer & Assistant Editor

John M. Hayden Writer

Stephen Lang

Director of Photography A publication of OutClique, LLC (954) 294-8560 www.OutClique.com www.Facebook.com/OutClique Info@OutClique.com OutClique, LLC is not responsible for statements or opinions expressed in advertisements or articles.

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Welcome

ev eryo n e u n d e r t he s u n Greater Fort Lauderdale invites everyone to enjoy our vibrant community here in Florida’s LGBT+ capital, from cosmopolitan dining and nightlife and the revelry of Wilton Manors to miles of golden beaches and Everglades eco-tours. If you’re welcoming visitors or are ready for a staycation, visit us online to learn more about all of the exceptional attractions and experiences our ever-evolving destination has to offer.

o o o

Bleed: 8 1/8” x 11 1/8” Non-bleed: 7” x 10 1/8” Trim: 7 7/8” x 10 7/8”

Plan Your Adventure at VisitLauderdale.com/lgbt

VACATION RENTAL RESORT

Stay in a full apartment for less than a hotel room!

15 short-term vacation rentals 1 & 2 bedroom apartments Walk to Wilton Drive Heated resort pool Free parking Woof! dog friendly Free high speed wi-fi Free on site gym

WATERFRONT FUN PADDLE BOARDING & KAYAKING

611 NE 29th Drive Wilton Manors wiltonsuites.com Need More Info? Call or Text 954-830-9928

Credit: Credit Come Out With Pride & Brian Becnel, Photographer

Celebrate Pride this Summer in Orlando As the city where dragons, coasters, and Pride flags fly, Orlando readies for an exciting summer season filled with vibrant fun, delectable cuisine and a diverse community that warmly embraces cultures from all

dating back to the original Gay Days in 1991. A winning destination in the 2022 “Gay Travel Awards”, Orlando promotes inclusivity through events, nightlife and activities that welcome all. The “city beautiful”

backgrounds coming together, remaining a welcoming destination for LGBTQ+ visitors.

has earned a perfect score from the Human Rights Campaign's Municipal Equality Index, which measures the LGBTQ+ inclusiveness of cities' laws, policies and services.

Orlando has been a pioneer in LGBTQ+ tourism

June offers several longstanding events for visitors to enjoy and celebrate Pride month, including: GayDays (May 31 – June 5), comprised of multiple events staged at world-famous attractions; gay and lesbian clubs; and unique venues that create a renowned gay and lesbian vacation experience.

Girls in Wonderland (June 1-5), the counterpart to GayDays, catering to female members of the LGBTQ+ community, featuring parties, special performances and celebrity appearances.

One Magical Weekend (June 1-5), always on the first weekend in June, is one of the largest LGBTQ+ pride and music festivals in the world.

Tidal Wave Party (June 1-5), a private party at Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon Water Park and a “Bearaoke” contest, are two of many unique experiences where visitors can make a splash during this weekend of water park events and activities.

14 | OutClique.com

RED Shirt Pride Day (June 3), this annual tradition invites visitors to wear a red shirt to Magic Kingdom Park on the first Saturday in June, inspired by the original 30 or 40 people with “kindred spirits” that bravely met there back in 1991. Their courage that started as a social gathering has grown to become one of the longest running, most iconic events in LGBTQ+ history.

Annual Pulse Remembrance Ceremony (June 12), designed to spread messages of love, unity, acceptance, courage and strength throughout the community. It traditionally takes place at the Pulse Interim Memorial, which honors the 49 lives lost on June 12, 2016, and is open throughout the year.

A UNIQUE PRIDE CELEBRATION WITH A DIVERSE DINING SCENE As a top-tier foodie destination, Orlando now has 46 restaurants in the MICHELIN Guide Miami, Orlando and Tampa – including 13 new entries for 2023, four starred venues, 11 Bib Gourmands and 31 Recommended – to turn any pride experience into a unique pride celebration.

With an update on May 11, 2023, the recognition confirms what locals have known all along — that Orlando has an exceptional culinary community.

PLAN YOUR PRIDE GETAWAY TO ORLANDO Visitors can take advantage of Visit Orlando’s free

planning resources, or reach out to the specialized Vacation Planning Services team to get help on organizing a getaway to explore Orlando theme parks and attractions, the vibrant live entertainment and dance clubs in and around the downtown area, combined with the local welcoming nature that has helped make Orlando famous among LGBTQ+ travelers.

To find more information about the many LGBTQ events and activities in Orlando, check out Visit Orlando’s LGBTQ in Orlando blog post, or check Visit Orlando’s calendar of events.

Content and Photos Courtesy of Visit Orlando

Brightline Unveils Orlando Passenger Rail Station

Brightline, the only provider of modern, eco-friendly, intercity rail in America has unveiled its highly anticipated Brightline Orlando Station at Orlando International Airport (MCO). With Brightline’s signature yellow and spacious lounges, the station is the perfect backdrop for a new era of passenger rail that will connect two of the fastest growing regions in the state: Central and South Florida. Brightline Orlando ticket sales launched in May 2023 for future dates, with one-way fares starting at $79 for SMART and $149 for PREMIUM. SMART fare bundles for families of four will be available for less than $199 one way.

The new station is meticulously designed and built through the lens of today’s modern traveler. The 37,350 square foot station is located in Orlando International Airport’s new 80,000 sq. ft. Train Station facility adjacent to Terminal C. The Train Station connects directly to the airport’s Parking Garage C, which will have more than 350 parking spaces branded for Brightline guests. The Train Station provides direct access to the other airport terminals A and B via the airport Terminal Link (automated people mover) in under five minutes.

Transportation and mobility options at the Orlando Station include Brightline’s first and last-mile service, Brightline+, which will cater to the unique needs of the Orlando visitor.

The guest journey begins at the main entrance, located off the airport’s expansive two-story glass atrium. Once inside the station, passengers can purchase tickets from guest services or one of several self-service kiosks, and check luggage before proceeding through touchless turnstiles into the security screening tunnel.

Once through the security tunnel, guests are greeted by an expansive two-story station space, featuring world-class amenities Brightline is known for, including: • Mary Mary Bar, serving hand-crafted cocktails and light bites. The signature sit-down bar is positioned at the far end of the station with a stunning panoramic

view overlooking the train platforms where guests can leisurely watch as trains arrive and depart.

• Above the Mary Mary bar is an iconic, split-flap message board that can rotate alphanumeric text and/or graphics to form a message. A nostalgic nod to historic train stations, the split-flap will provide updated train schedules, boarding times, news of the day and other announcements complete with sounds reminiscent of the first passenger train stations in America.

• MRKT PLACE is a retail experience with convenient in-station shopping for last-minute gifts, sundries and refreshments.

• Brightline offers two classes of service, SMART and PREMIUM. Brightline’s PREMIUM service includes complimentary meals, snacks and beverages, a dedicated first class lounge, free checked luggage, priority boarding and a dedicated coach.

• Throughout the station, all guests will have access to free high-speed Wi-Fi, charging stations at every seat, 87 big screen televisions and a BrightKids children’s play area located in the SMART lounge.

Passengers will access trains by escalator or elevator to first level platforms. These platforms are 1,000 feet long and can accommodate a train with up to 10 coaches and two locomotives.

Service will begin in Summer 2023 and will include 16 daily round trips with hourly departures between Miami and Orlando. Brightline’s non-stop trains have a run time between Miami and Orlando of two hours and 59 minutes. Regular service from Orlando to Miami will stop at all Brightline stations including West Palm Beach, Boca Raton, Fort Lauderdale and Aventura with a run time of three hours and 30 minutes.

www.GoBrightline.com/Orlando Content and Photos Courtesy of Brightline

Journey Through Egypt or Explore the Timeless Beauty of Vietnam and Cambodia The leader in LGBTQ+ Luxury Travel | 20+ Years Global Experience

Mekong River Cruise Ho Chi Minh City to Siem Reap October 17–29, 2023

Limited Availability

Treasures of Egypt December 7–16, 2023

Limited Availability

Find Your Epic!

305.672.9779 SourceJourneys.com

Sunday Funday in Florida’s LGBT+ Capital

F

rom golden beaches to amazing dining and entertainment, we’ve mapped out the perfect Sunday funday with just a few of the many unforgettable offerings.

Brunch on the Water Get your Sunday funday underway with brunch classics and bottomless beverages as you watch the boats cruise by at Shooters Waterfront.

Sebastian Street Beach You’re going to need a power nap after that kind of indulgence, so find your spot in the sand at Sebastian Street Beach, named the “Hottest U.S. Gay Beach” by Out Traveler.

To The Moon Marketplace There are plenty one-of-a-kind discoveries in the famous gayborhood Wilton Manors and a good place to start is To The Moon Marketplace, where you’ll discover 13,000 types of candy from 60 different countries!

Bubbles and Pearls Chef Josie Smith-Malave has infused Bubbles and Pearls with her own exuberant spirit and dinner here will feel like a celebration. While this eclectic eatery’s featured offering is fresh oysters and a variety of champagnes, diners can also enjoy small plates of seafood and other specialties.

Georgie’s Alibi Monkey Bar PTOWN/FTL After dinner, enjoy a live show at Georgie’s Alibi Monkey Bar PTOWN/FTL. This popular spot is also a favorite for dancing, with live DJs spinning on Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights.

DrYnk Bar & Lounge End your Sunday funday with a kiss: The Kiwi Kiss (Ketel One Citreon Vodka, muddled kiwi and lychee, and fresh lemon) at DrYnk Bar & Lounge, renowned for its craft cocktails, inviting lounge feel and friendly staff.

Plan your adventure at VisitLauderdale.com/lgbt

From Memorial Day weekend to Labor Day, 101 days of summer are yours to enjoy, and we invite you to enjoy them with us. Check out 101 unforgettable experiences, and make your plans now to have your best summer vacation ever at VisitLauderdale.com/Summer.

Florida’s Cultural Capital® The Palm Beaches World-class museums and galleries. Concerts and festivals where music fills the air. Award-winning theater and Broadway performers. From Jupiter to Boca Raton, The Palm Beaches is bursting with creativity.

Stonewall Ball

Each year, in recognition of Pride Month and the fight for equal rights for the LGBTQ+ community that began at the Stonewall Riots, Compass Community Center hosts the Stonewall Ball. Held during the last Saturday of June, the ball is a time for the LGBTQ+ community of Palm Beach County to celebrate the progress that has been made in the quest for equal rights.

This year, Compass turns 35 and we are planning to celebrate at this year’s Stonewall Ball! The ball is a 21+ extravaganza that is split into two parts: The VIP Cocktail and Award Reception and the “Lightning” Dance Party.

The 2023 theme is “Back to OUR Future”. Over the last 50 years, the LGBTQ+ community has made fantastic strides towards acceptance and equality. Unfortunately, the current political rhetoric threatens to set us back.

We are focused on getting BACK TO THE FUTURE for which we have fought so hard.

June 24, 2023

Cox Science Center and Aquarium

Look around: It isn’t hard to see why The Palm Beaches’ scenic beauty has inspired generations of artists and collectors. Art is a way of life in Delray Beach, where Pineapple Grove and Old School Square brim with galleries and artist studios. Browse prestigious collections and exhibits at the Boca Raton Museum of Art and the Norton Museum of Art. At the Flagler Museum, step inside the Gilded-Age Palm Beach mansion of railroad baron Henry Flagler to view historic exhibits alongside period artwork and furnishings.

When it comes to entertainment, The Palm Beaches wins best in show. There’s always something happening in the West Palm Beach Arts and Entertainment District and Harbourside Place in Jupiter. Snag concert tickets to top touring acts at the Kravis Center for the Performing Arts in West Palm Beach, see Tony-winning musicals at the Maltz Jupiter Theatre and enjoy cabaret sets by Broadway’s brightest stars at the Crest Theatre in Delray Beach.

The Palm Beaches’ events calendar is filled with artful happenings year-round. Festival of the Arts BOCA is a glittering celebration of culture, while Shakespeare by the Sea draws fans of The Bard to Jupiter’s Carlin Park.

And SunFest in West Palm Beach packs the waterfront for four straight days of great music, art, good vibes, and dancing in the street.

www.CompassGLCC.com www.ThePalmBeaches.com

www.ThePalmBeaches.com

Content and Photo Courtesy of Compass Community Center

Content Courtesy of The Palm Beaches

THE GOLDEN AGE OF TRAVEL IS BACK IN THE PALM BEACHES

As America’s First Resor t Destination , The Palm Beaches have been the preferred getaway ®

for discerning gues ts for over 125 years. From Jupiter to Boca Raton, discover sun-kissed beaches, alfresco dining, premier golf courses and world-class shopping. Less crowded and more relaxed, the gentler side of Florida awaits. | ThePalmBeaches.com

Experience the White Lotus Guided Tour in Sicily Quiiky Tours – the first Italian-based LGBTQ+ tour specialist – is “riding high” with its new White Lotus tour that takes guests on a guided journey to many of the real-life settings from Season 2 of the award-winning comedy drama, which is set in Sicily. Guests start the 9-day tour in style, with a two-night stay at the Four Season’s San Domenico Palace in Taormina – the elegant “White Lotus resort” which hosted the eccentric cast of characters in Season 2. The tour then visits other prominent locations from the series, including Noto, Cefalù, and Palermo.

Plaza’s girl trip (though the actual Villa Tasca, where they stay, is in Palermo).

Seductive Sicily Quiiky’s White Lotus tour takes guests to the center of Taormina and the nearby beach resort town of Giardini Naxos, the location of the series’ fictional La Cambusa beach club. Lying in the shadows of the Mt. Etna volcano, the town is known for its sweeping beachfront and nightlife, as well as its museum and ancient excavations, which are nearby. Guests will also take a boat to Isola Bella Beach, whose namesake is a tiny island known as “ the Pearl of the Ionian Sea’’. They can swim in its crystal-clear waters and, later, enjoy dinner at one of the many highly rated restaurants along the coast of Taormina.

The tour continues to Cefalù, taking guests through scenic, winding roads and picturesque villages that reveal the beauty and rural splendor of the Sicilian countryside. It passes the ancient port town of Catania, a UNESCO World Heritage Site whose “old town” features late-baroque architecture. The town is considered one of the most LGBTQ+ friendly in Sicily, on par with Palermo. The opening scenes of Season 2 of The White Lotus were filmed along its azure waters and beaches.

White Lotus tour guests will then head to Noto, a town whose architecture from the early 18th century is considered among the finest examples of Sicilian baroque style. The town is the fictional setting for Meghann Fahy and Audrey

On the way to Noto, guests will stop for a tour and wine tasting at the lavish vineyard of Planeta Feudo di Mezzo.

The vineyard hosted the characters of Aubrey Plaza, Will Sharpe, Theo James, and Meghann Fahy in the series. In addition to tours and two-nights’ luxury accommodations in Noto, guests will be treated to traditional cassata sponge cake at the Caffè Sicilia, often called the best café in Italy.

Following a two-night stay and tours of Cefalù, guests will then travel to Palermo, where they will enjoy two-nights’ luxury accommodations and guided tours. A lavish farewell dinner ends the tour.

“In The White Lotus, Tom Hollander’s character Quentin says, ‘Sicily can be very seductive,” noted Virgili. “Our tour will show you why.”

October 5-13, 2023 | Sicily | www.Quiiky.com/en Content Courtesy of Quiiky Tours

Woodford Reserve

Historical Barrel Entry

Woodford Reserve has announced the winter 2022 Master’s Collection release – Historic Barrel Entry. The whiskey is a rich and darkly robust expression of Woodford Reserve Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey.

having a lower entry proof (in other words more water in the barrel than the Woodford Reserve standard of 110 proof entry) will result in richer, sweet characteristics being absorbed from the barrel’s famed red layer.”

For this Master’s Collection release, Master Distiller Emeritus Chris Morris called upon the rich history of Kentucky Bourbon and their own interests for inspiration.

This 2022 Master’s Collection was made with newlydistilled whiskey that went into the barrel at 100 proof. The barrel entry proof of “new make” plays an important role in the maturation process, and the standard for barrel entry proof has changed over the past two centuries.

This year’s limited-edition release marks the 18th edition of the Master’s Collection.

The bourbon of the 19th century had a barrel entry of 100 to 103 proof, and after the repeal of Prohibition, barrel entry proof levels began to increase. The present barrel entry proof standard that was set in 1962 is 125 proof.

“A lower entry proof seems counterintuitive when one thinks of getting more flavor from the new, charred barrel.

In fact, many of the barrel extractives we desire are more water soluble than they are alcohol,” Morris said. “By

Tasting Notes Color: Deep russet orange Aroma: An alluring medley of vanilla bean and dried apple dusted with nutmeg, clove, and cinnamon with a hint of cocoa. Roasted coffee and hazelnut soften into notes of dark cherry and plum muddled with spearmint.

Taste: Rich toasted oak is tempered by overripe banana and a medley of cooked berry fruits. Hints of leather, coffee, and baking spice trail into minty dark chocolate.

Finish: A lingering finish of charred oak, leather, and orange oil.

About Woodford Reserve

Woodford Reserve, “Presenting Sponsor of the Kentucky Derby,” is crafted at the historic Woodford Reserve Distillery, tucked in the heart of thoroughbred country in Versailles, Kentucky. A National Historic Landmark, the Woodford Reserve Distillery represents craftsmanship with a balance of historic heritage and modern practices. Woodford Reserve is a product of the Brown-Forman Corporation, a premier producer and marketer of fine quality beverage alcohol brands including Jack Daniel’s, Finlandia, Korbel, Tequila Herradura, Old Forester, Sonoma-Cutrer and Chambord. Please enjoy your bourbon responsibly. To learn more about Woodford Reserve, visit us www.woodfordreserve.com or check us out on Facebook at www.facebook.com/woodfordreserve.

Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey, 45.2% Alc. by Vol., produced by the Woodford Reserve Distillery, Versailles, KY ©2023 Content and Photo Courtesy of Woodford Reserve

R House Wynwood Chef Rocco Carulli & Owen Bale As Miami's vibrant LGBTQ+ community prepares to celebrate Pride Month, there is one couple that stands out for their unwavering commitment to inclusivity, creativity, and hospitality: Rocco Carulli and Owen Bale, the dynamic duo behind R House Wynwood.

Rocco and Owen met while Owen was vacationing in Miami in 2011 and it was love at first sight. The two were inseparable thereafter despite living on separate continents at the time. Rocco was wrapping up his time as a chef in Cape Cod, Massachusetts to embark on his journey to opening a restaurant in Miami in March 2013, while Owen was continuing to practice law in London. In May 2013, Owen came over to Miami to take a break from being an attorney and help Rocco with the pre-opening of R House. Three months later, the two traveled to NYC to tie the knot as gay marriage was not yet legal in Florida.

24 | OutClique.com

Together, the newlyweds launched R House in 2014 with Rocco at the helm in the kitchen and Owen taking the front-of-house reins. From the moment they opened their doors, Rocco and Owen knew they wanted R House to be a place where everyone felt welcome, regardless of background or identity. With its eclectic Latin-inspired menu, funky decor, and lively entertainment, R House quickly became a beloved gathering spot for locals and tourists alike.

“Our synergy is our superpower!” shares Carulli. Owen explains: “I gave up the 27th floor of a corporate law firm building in the epicenter of London for a chance to be in the thick of this fast-paced and bustling life that is the culinary industry! I honestly didn’t know the first thing about running a restaurant, but I knew as long as I was by Rocco’s side, we could accomplish anything.”

Opening a restaurant in Miami wasn’t always smooth sailing and the duo faced their own dose of challenges from the Zika virus that attacked Wynwood in 2016, Hurricane Irma in 2017, and the Covid-19 pandemic in 2020. Despite the hardships and interruptions to their business, they persevered; understanding that R House had become more than just a restaurant to its community.

R House is renowned as the site for Miami’s most famous drag brunches. What most people don’t know is that Drag Brunch single-handedly saved the struggling restaurant when the pandemic hit in 2020. Unlike many unfortunate businesses in the area, R House was able to adapt, taking the opportunity to build out the outside patio area to be able to safely cater to customers.

Today, R House’s brunch is the most sought-after Drag Brunch in all of Miami.

“If there was one message I could tell the world, it would be to never give up,” continues Owen Bale. “We never stopped working no matter the challenges we’ve faced in the past nine years and because of it, we’ve built this magical, liberating place from the ground up that is now a huge phenomenon.”

Through their hard work and dedication, Rocco and Owen have created a place that truly embodies the spirit of “Pride”: A place where everyone is welcome, love is universal, and creativity and self-expression are celebrated. Their main goal is to continue to serve great food and drinks, provide quality entertainment and make sure everyone who visits leaves with a smile on their face. The future is bright at R House with potential new locations on the horizon in other major cities.

www.RHouseWynwood.com Content Courtesy of Staff Writer | Photos Courtesy of R House Wynwood

Lips

Dragalicious Brunch

Photos Courtesy of SRL Media 26 | OutClique.com

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Miss Bouvèé Tropics Bar & Grill

Photos Courtesy of SRL Media 28 | OutClique.com

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Changes At Courtyard Cafe Despite being in the heart of Wilton Manors along Wilton Drive, Shawn & Nick’s Courtyard Cafe doesn’t stick out as you drive by . . . or even as you walk by. Yet for years it has remained a staple for area residents and visitors who want to live like locals.

Now, change is coming, and that starts with new owners. Shawn posted on their social media, “To all our loyal customers! As of 4/26/2023 Courtyard Cafe is under new ownership. I would like to thank the community for 15 years of love and support. I hope that you continue to support them as you have supported me over the years! Thank you for everything.”

The news caught many people by surprise. For regulars, Courtyard Cafe is a constant, feel good spot serving up delicious comfort food. For now, that’s staying the same.

“Being so involved in the LGBT community, how can we bring something to our own community ourselves?”

Branden Vidal is one of the three new owners, and spoke with OutClique the day after taking over. “We were able to get in contact with Shawn. It’s been a staple here for so many years.”

Vidal, along with Javier Valdez and Deiler Beltran are all LGBT and have worked in South Florida, including Greater Wilton Manors, for years. Vidal knows Courtyard Cafe is beloved by the community and says they’re looking to make improvements to the restaurant while keeping its neighborhood credibility.

“What we want to do is continue to have a place where the locals come to an establishment that they already know.”

The new owners say they know big changes are coming to Wilton Manors, including development and growth. They said they’re excited to be planting their flag in the city and will be full participants in Wilton Manors’ future.

Author: John Hayden

Rosie’s Bar & Grill

Photos Courtesy of SRL Media 30 | OutClique.com

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Pub on the Drive Pet Project

Photos Courtesy of SRL Media 32 | OutClique.com

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LIT Wilton Manors

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DRINKS • FOOD • GAMES • VIDEOS • DANCING

SCAN FOR PRIDE INVITE

TUES TRIVIA DADDY 50% OFF DRINKS ITB

WED GAME NITE

THURS BINGO BITCH

POKER, DARTS DAISY D + HOT PRIZES & MORE TO THE MOON + BEDROOM BOX

FRI RUPAUL RETRO

DRAG RACE ALL STARS DJ NENA FLASHBACKS

SAT & SUN $6 DRINK SPECIALS REVOLUTION SAT BEACH BUM SUNDAY

Georgie's Alibi Monkey Bar

Photos Courtesy of SRL Media 36 | OutClique.com

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‘Frenemies’ Face Off

Everyone loves a good cat fight and ‘Frenemies', the newest drag show to hit the Drive, certainly delivers.

Pulling from an extensive backlog of shared history and actual events, former rivals and co-hosts Daisy Deadpetals and Erika Norell, are entertaining audiences at The Eagle with their catty humor and true tales of backstage betrayal.

“Erika and I were both coming up about this time twentyfive years ago,” explains Deadpetals, “Oh girl! Maybe thirty!”, she exclaims while reflecting on how quickly the time has flown. Adds Norell, “We were doing pageants and competing against each other, so everyone would whisper in our ears and say ‘girl, she's coming for you’.”

Agrees Deadpetals, “We weren't the best of friends at first, then we realized we were the same person with the same twisted sense of humor.”

Now, the two multi-faceted divas are bringing their creatively wicked humor to Wilton Manors’ classic leather bar every Sunday night. “It's one of the coolest places around," says Deadpetals, “an ‘everybody welcome’ kind of vibe.” Their variety act features fire dancers, burlesque boys, and a rotating line up of special guest performances by drag superstars TP Lords and Velvet Lenore.

"We have great history,” explains Deadpetals, “We’re both hosting and there’s going to be a lot of duets and a lot of comedy skits. People haven't really seen Erika do that kind of stuff because she's more of a glamor goddess.” Deadpetals, who has long been known for her catty and smart humor, is excited for audiences to see another side of Erika. “I do funny stuff all the time, but it’s great to have her involved. I get to perform in a way that I wouldn't normally get to do on my own and people get to see how freaking funny she is. She’s hysterical.”

As for the show’s name, Daisy explains, "It was Erika's brainchild, she came up with ‘Frenemies’, which I thought was perfect” adding, “a tip of the wig to her.”

With a nod to Dynasty’s soap-style catfights, “We’re going to open with a feud,” says Norell. “Then we have a Freddy versus Jason duet that we’re going to do,” Deadpetals shares. While the spoilers may stop here, ‘Frenemies’ is everything audiences have come to love about these two talented queens. “Expect the unexpected,” warns Deadpetals. Just don’t expect her to perform any death drops, ‘I mean, I wish I could do it, but my chiropractor would murder me.”

Sundays, 5:30PM-7PM

The Eagle | EagleBarWM.com | www.OutClique.com/eaglebarwm Author: Jessica Graves | Photos Courtesy of Daisy Deadpetals

Leathers Boutique At Eagle The deep bass of the beats lures you to the door, the

to South Florida and eventually became a barback at

darkness draws you in. Eagle Wilton Manors is known

Eagle. But it was the bright lights of the little store that

for its dark lighting and the mystique it provides. But

caught his attention. Eventually he convinced Chuck,

beyond the door and just off the dark dance floor, is a

the owner, to let him run the store and sell his products.

very well-lit room that entices you out from the dark.

“I asked if I could put my stuff in here, and he said yes, of course.”

“It’s like the flower that catches your eye and brings you in.” Marquee Kloppenburg runs Eagle Leathers,

Labor of Love

the boutique inside Eagle showcasing a unique line of hand-crafted gear.

His material is multi-colored aluminum, and the eye is immediately drawn to the scales and designs created

Inside Leathers you’ll find lots of leather gear and

directly from his imagination. Each piece takes about

accessories running from the traditional to the edgy. But

four hours once he sits down at his design table. “It’s a

the truly avant garde gear is produced by Kloppenburg

matter of focus. Sitting down at the table and getting to

himself. “I’ve always had a medieval fetish, so this fits

work. It’s very meditative for me.”

in perfectly,” he told OutClique.

The price tags give some fans initial sticker shock, but He crafts a chainmail line of harnesses and tops that

handcrafted quality is something discerning customers

rivals anything you’ve seen between Wilton Drive and

know you have to pay for. “Some people say it’s

the Castro in San Francisco. The looks are reminiscent

expensive, but most say it’s beautiful. My product, once

of how we depict knights from the middle ages as they

you put it on, feel it, it’s sold. Once they try it on, it’s

rode off into battle. You’ll also see influences from

hard to say no.”

some of humanity’s oldest cultures. “Egyptian, Roman.

I pulled a little bit of this and a little bit of that.”

Kloppenburg says he loves the work, and everything that goes with it. “I’m very happy. This is not a job for

Kloppenburg got his start in Atlanta, where he learned

me. I make money off a hobby, which is a fabulous

the leather lifestyle. A few years ago he made his way

thing.”

EagleBarWM.com | www.OutClique.com/eaglebarwm Author: John Hayden

Eagle Wilton Manors

Photos Courtesy of SRL Media 44 | OutClique.com

|

More photos at www.Facebook.com/OutClique

Size Matters

visit www.uberlube.com

ALWAYS LOOK FOR A BETTER BUSINESS. BECAUSE THEY’RE LOOKING OUT FOR YOU. BBB® Accredited Businesses are committed to operating with integrity, honoring promises, and telling the truth. Makes you wonder why all businesses aren’t BBB Accredited?

Always look for the BBB Accredited Business Seal, because it’s looking out for you. That’s why it’s The Sign of a Better BusinessSM. Find a Better Business anytime at BBB.org.

Find a Better Business

Become a Better Business

Photo Courtesy of Getty Images

Disaster Preparedness During Hurricane Season June 1 marks the beginning of hurricane season, and with hurricane season comes the anxiety and uncertainty that any minute we could become the target of a storm. Although every year BBB and other organizations raise awareness on how to be prepared for a storm, BBB would like to provide some tips on how you can be prepared before there’s even a storm coming our way.

Check the state of your roof- The average life of a roof is anywhere between 15 to 20 years. Check your roof for any weak points that need fixing and that could become an issue during a storm.

Trim the branches in your backyard and front yardOvergrown branches can become projectiles and leave a lot of debris during a storm. Maintain trimmed branches in your backyard and front yard and if you need assistance, hire a professional at BBB.org Go over your insurance policies- It is important to understand what your insurance policies cover in case of disaster, go over your car insurance, homeowner’s insurance or rental insurance and add any coverage that may be necessary such as wind or flooding insurance. Consult with an insurance claim adjuster

you trust about what coverage may be the most appropriate.

Keep a printed list of vendors- We often lose power and internet after a storm, making it difficult to research professionals you may need after the disaster. Research vendors you feel comfortable working with and that you may need in case there’s damage (water restoration, branch trimmers, roofers, plumbers, window installers, and insurance adjusters). Keep a printed list of these vendors and their information in your hurricane kit.

Research for reputable professionals at BBB.org Have a plan in place- Update your hurricane kit with everything you may need such as batteries, nonperishable food, first aid kit, flashlights, pet food, water, and a list of vendors and have a backup plan in case you need to evacuate whether it is a friend or relative’s home, or your nearest shelter. It is important to have a plan in place of what you may need and what you will do in case you find yourself in the path of a storm. The more prepared you are, the better.

For more information on how to be prepared this hurricane season and for local resources please visit BBB.org/hurricane

Content Courtesy of Cinthya Lavin for The Better Business Bureau serving Southeast Florida and the Caribbean

OutClique.com | 47

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.

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MOST IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT BIKTARVY

POSSIBLE SIDE EFFECTS OF 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.

BIKTARVY may cause serious side effects, including:  Those in the “Most Important Information About BIKTARVY” section.  Changes in your immune system. Your immune system may get stronger and begin to fight infections 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 “tea-colored” urine, light-colored stools, loss of appetite for several days or longer, nausea, or stomach-area pain.  The most common side effects of BIKTARVY in clinical studies were diarrhea (6%), nausea (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. 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.

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

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

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.

Tell your healthcare provider about all the medicines you take:  Keep a list that includes all prescription and over-thecounter medicines, antacids, laxatives, vitamins, and herbal supplements, and show it to your healthcare provider and pharmacist.  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  This is only a brief summary of important information

about BIKTARVY. Talk to your healthcare provider or pharmacist to learn more.  Go to BIKTARVY.com or call 1-800-GILEAD-5.  If you need help paying for your medicine, visit BIKTARVY.com for program information.

BIKTARVY, the BIKTARVY Logo, GILEAD, the GILEAD Logo, and KEEP BEING YOU are trademarks of Gilead Sciences, Inc., or its related companies. © 2023 Gilead Sciences, Inc. All rights reserved. US-BVYC-0250 04/23

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Increasing Gender-Affirming Care with Project sTrenGth Care Resource's Project sTrenGth program was created for transgender individuals to further bridge the gaps in accessing support and healthcare services in Broward and Miami-Dade counties.

This program is made possible by grant funding from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) under the Transcend initiative, which focuses on providing comprehensive, health services for transgender persons including HIV testing, status-neutral prevention, linkage and care, including pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP), gender affirming hormone therapy, STI and hepatitis testing and treatment, primary health care, chronic disease management, and navigation to support services.

Myka Osario, Medical Project Coordinator, and Project sTrenGth Lead, states that, “Care Resource is uniquely positioned to assist transgender and gender-diverse individuals with their health care management needs.

The mobile medical unit will be a powerful and effective tool against these struggles by finding those who need help and meeting them where they are in the community.”

According to the CDC, in the state of Florida a staggering 53% of all transgender people remain unemployed and 45% lack any sort of medical insurance coverage. This makes engaging in care difficult along with other barriers like stigma or prejudice standing between them and quality health care services exacerbating matters further.

Project sTrenGth hopes to address these disparities, by providing safe, affordable, and quality gender affirming health care. Some gender-affirming services include clinical STI screenings, Pap tests, breast exams, and prostate cancer screenings.

For more information about Project sTrenGth or to enroll in services, please call 786-761-2756, or email projectstrength@careresource.org.

About Care Resource: Care Resource is a 501(c) (3) nonprofit organization and a Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC) with four locations in Midtown Miami, Little Havana, Miami Beach, and Fort Lauderdale.

The health center provides comprehensive health and support services to address the full health care needs of South Florida’s pediatric, adolescent, and adult populations.

CareResource.org | www.OutClique.com/CareResource Content Courtesy of Care Resource

Whatever your needs are, we have a treatment for that.

Rainbow Services Offers Care & Compassion Ah, the golden years of retirement. A time to be spent celebrating a life well lived and enjoying the fruits of hard work. But at some point, Father Time puts some tarnish on that gold. For many, aging means needing help along the way.

Rainbow Services offers care and companionship at home, allowing clients to maintain independence and have someone around to share their day. From light housekeeping and food preparation to assisting in personal hygiene and keeping track of medications, Rainbow Services offers care customized to each client’s needs. Paul Olson then matches the new client with the caregiver he believes best suits the situation.

Founded nine years ago by Stewart Pepper, who now works with Paul Olson. Olson meets with each new client and their caregiver, often a loved one or spouse, to see where they are. “I meet them, assess their house for equipment, such as handrails in showers, and see what we can provide for care.”

Support For All Rainbow Services helps more than the patient, they help the caregiver/partner/spouse as well. “We provide 50/50 service. We give 50% to the client and 50% to the caregiver, it’s called respite care. We have to make sure the person doesn’t get burned out,” Olson said.

Being a primary caregiver takes a toll both physically and emotionally. Rainbow Services knows even the most dedicated and loving partners need a break, and don’t realize it until they’re exhausted.

“A lot of people wait until the last minute to call us, and

by then they’re ready to pull their hair out. We are going to do everything we can to ensure they are getting the respite and the person they’re taking care of will be well cared for.”

It’s that complete embracement that makes Rainbow Services unique. Often after the partner comes home, the Rainbow Services caregiver will stay, talk, and give them a chance to interact with someone who understands. Oftentimes, patients have Alzheimer’s or dementia, and the caregiver can just chat for a few minutes and grab a bit of normalcy.

Trust In Action Pepper and Olson are both very involved in client care.

They reassess each client’s needs every few months.

If the client checks into a hospital, they visit them.

Olson says it comes down to five core values: Passion, Compassion, Dignity, Independence, and Respect.

They teach all their employees to leave the house just as they found it, if not better, and are insured in case something breaks. “You have to earn trust. If you let them down then you lose their trust.”

Rainbow Services isn’t part of a huge conglomerate, and that’s by choice. “We don’t want to be a huge company because then we’d lose our personal touch.”

It’s being there for people as they begin to need more help and care in their day-to-day lives.

One time, Olson, who has a background in HIV hospice care, traveled with a client and spent days together. It’s an experience that encapsulates how much he cares.

“I can’t even begin to tell you how close we became.

That’s really unique to us, because we do care.”

(954) 532-5451 | RainbowServices@comcast.net Author: John Hayden

When Someone You Know Struggles with Fear And Anxiety Do you know a friend or loved one who suffers from fear, anxiety, and depression and you do not know what to do to help them? It can be frustrating to watch someone you know struggle with their mental health and not be able to do anything to relieve their suffering.

With this in mind, here are seven ways to help the person cope in these kinds of situations.

Learn as much as you can in managing anxiety and depression: There are many books and information that will educate you on how to successfully overcome fear and anxiety. Share this information with the individual who is struggling with their fears. The key is to get your friend to understand how important it is to seek some guidance when it comes to their mental health.

Be understanding and patient with the person struggling with their fears: Maintaining depression and anxiety can be difficult for the individual so do not add more problems than what is already there. Do not get into arguments with your friend who may be having a difficult time with their anxieties. Make an effort to listen to the person rather than making judgements.

Talk to the person instead of talking at them: It is important not to lecture the individual who is having a hard time with anxiety and depression.

Talk to the person about their issues without being rude.

Most people will listen if you approach them in a proper manner. Remember to treat others the way you would

want to be treated if you were the one who was struggling.

Ask for some ideas: Seek advice from a professional who can assist the person you know with their mental health issues. A counselor can give you some ideas on how to overcome anxiety, fear, and depression. Getting help from a therapist is the number one priority in getting the individual to do something about their problems.

Find out why the person won’t get assistance: Address the issues on why he or she will not seek treatment. Many people who are struggling are fearful and frustrated. Try to find out the reasons why your friend won’t get the help they need and then try to find the ways that will overcome their resistance to seeking some guidance.

Remind the person of the consequences of not getting help: Another way to convince the individual who is struggling with fear and depression is to tell them what may happen if they don’t get some counseling. Anxiety and depression can make things worse and usually won’t go away by themselves.

You can’t manage your mental health all by yourself: A person’s fears and anxieties can be difficult to manage and more than likely they will need some help. Many people think that they can overcome their mental health problems on their own.

This is a mistake. The individual should admit they have a problem and then seek treatment to get their life back on track.

Author: Stan Popovich Stan Popovich is the author of the popular managing fear book, “A Layman’s Guide to Managing Fear”. www.ManagingFear.com.

60 | OutClique.com

GUYS! Get Your Booty

Ready For Summer Time to start thinking about getting your behind in shape for beach season.

Luckily, there’s a solution that can help you achieve a firmer, more muscular-looking booty without resorting to surgery or endless hours at the gym.

The Genesis Booty Enhancement • Designed to stimulate collagen production in the skin.

• Technically advanced procedure.

• No invasive surgery or relying solely on exercise.

• Gradual process ensures a more natural and subtle result.

• Add more volume, lift sagging skin, or create more defined contours.

• Won’t leave anyone questioning whether you had work done.

Achieving toned and sculpted buttocks is no longer a dream.

I can help you attain a more muscular-looking behind that enhances your appearance and boosts your confidence.

Say goodbye to invasive procedures and endless hours working out, and hello to a more sculpted and natural-looking booty.

Call me to get started on your journey today!

Genesis Health Institute

(954) 561-3175

1001 NE 26th Street, Wilton Manors, FL 33305 ghinstitute.com

Get Your Booty Ready

FOR SUMMER!

Summer is just around the corner, and it’s time for men to start thinking about getting their behinds in shape for beach season. Let’s face it; a toned and sculpted booty is desirable for any man’s physique. Luckily, there’s a solution that can help you achieve a firmer, more muscular-looking behind without resorting to surgery or endless hours at the gym.

The Genesis Booty Enhancement is designed to stimulate collagen production in the skin and can offer an alternative to traditional approaches for butt enhancement. This technically-advanced procedure is ideal for men looking to enhance their buttocks’ appearance without resorting to invasive surgery or relying solely on exercise.

Dr. Ferdinand Cabrera at Genesis Health Institute says, “The benefits are numerous! Unlike other treatments designed to add volume immediately, the Genesis Booty Enhancement gradually stimulates your body’s natural collagen production, resulting in a more toned and defined appearance over time. This gradual process ensures a more natural and subtle result that won’t leave anyone questioning whether you had work done.”

Another advantage of this treatment is that Dr. Cabrera can tailor it to your needs and preferences. Whether you want to add more volume, lift sagging skin, or create more defined contours, Dr. Cabrera can work with you to create a customized plan for your body and aesthetic goals.

The Genesis Booty Enhancement is minimally invasive and requires no downtime or recovery period. It’s a perfect option for busy men who want to look their best without disrupting their daily routines. The procedure is quick, easy, and virtually painless, allowing you to immediately return to your normal activities.

Achieving toned and sculpted buttocks is no longer a dream for men. With the help of the Genesis Booty Enhancement, you can achieve a more muscular looking behind that enhances your appearance and boosts your confidence. Say goodbye to invasive procedures and endless hours at the gym, and hello to a more sculpted and natural-looking booty.

Call Dr. Cabrera at (954) 561-3175 to start your journey today!

Schedule a complimentary consultation with Genesis Health Institute, conveniently located in Wilton Manors.

Call 954-561-3175 or visit ghinstitute.com to learn more.

Content and photo by Baxter Martin, courtesy of Genesis Health Institute | Sponsored Editorial

Marching to a Beat of Their Own Rian Merrick, Senior Therapist for SunServe’s Youth Program

Just before adding the finishing touches to his latest makeup tutorial, 8-year-old Kellan signs off of his YouTube channel reminding his fans to “like and subscribe.” While the budding makeup artist may have already mastered the art of blending, he has never been the type of kid who blends in. “I tell everybody we have 2 sons, 2 daughters, and one diva,” says his mother, Brooke. “Kellan has always marched to the beat of his own drum,” agrees dad Kevin. Then with a flip of his blonde locks, Kellan quips, "A diva does what a diva do’s, honey.”

For many families raising a gender-expansive child can be challenging even for families who consider themselves allies. Despite being the middle child in a tight-knit family where dad explains, “Our kids love each other through their differences,” he often worries about protecting Kellan from the “active hate” in the comments section. Initially Brooke was reluctant to let her “diva” go public, but she eventually relented out of a sense of duty explaining, “So many kids are afraid of rejection from their families.” By giving Kellan a voice, she hopes his videos will help others to feel less alone. Her eyes well up as she recalls her own initial loneliness when friends began criticizing her for allowing her son to wear dresses. She felt as if they were being ostracized, “He didn’t get invited to playdates. It would break my heart.”

After relocating to South Florida from San Francisco, the family eventually found their way to SunServe’s support group, Different Drummer, a monthly meeting held at the South Florida non-profit for families with gender-creative or trans children ages 3-11.

Rian Merrick, senior therapist for SunServe’s Youth Program, leads the Different Drummer group while simultaneously managing his regular caseload of nearly two-dozen clients. “Many of the parents who attend the

group,” explains Rian, “have lost family support because of supporting their own children.” By lending their expertise from a mental health standpoint, SunServe Youth Therapists engage the younger members through play therapy and counsel the adults through talk therapy.

“What makes it magic,” Rian says, “is when parents go from ‘I don’t know what to do’ to ‘here’s where we’ve been and how we got through it.’”

Growing up as a gay man in religiously conservative Trinidad and Tobago, Rian understands the importance of feeling accepted. After a chance encounter with SunServe several years ago while studying at Nova Southeastern University, he scored his “dream job” where he continually strives to “become who I needed when I was younger” through life coaching, therapy, and social engagement. Despite the current political climate in Florida, SunServe Youth Therapists maintain hope for the future, often reminding parents who worry their children won’t have the same freedoms, “that they’re not fighting alone.” “Having a support system is so important for children on different gender spectrums,” agrees Brooke.

Through SunServe, Brooke and Kellan along with dozens of other families have finally found their safe space, forming lasting bonds with people going through similar situations. “It’s like finding that piece of you that’s missing,” explains Brooke, “where people don’t judge you. They get you.” This past year, Kellan has gone from the kid who wasn’t invited to parties or playdates, to a confident and funny kid hosting sleepovers and filming makeup tutorials for his growing fan base. “This is about our child discovering who they are, supporting him, loving him,” Brooke says, adding with a smile, “I think he’s got great style.” Now that’s a beat we can all march to.

www.SunServe.org Author: Jessica Graves | @theJessGraves

|

Photos Courtesy of SunServe

OutClique.com | 67

Jackson Health System Lynn Rehabilitation Center Around the world, Jackson Health System is known for saving lives. At our new, state-of-the-art rehabilitation center, we go even further: we give patients back their lives.

To empower the world’s best rehab team, Jackson built the world’s best rehab facility. The Christine E. Lynn Rehabilitation Center for The Miami Project to Cure Paralysis at UHealth/Jackson Memorial was designed from scratch to be one of the country’s elite facilities for patients recovering from traumatic brain injury, spinal cord injury, cancer treatment, and other complex conditions.

Caregivers have come to Miami from around the world to join the therapists, doctors, nurses, and other professionals providing inpatient and outpatient care, cutting-edge clinical research, and the unmatched development expertise of The Miami Project to Cure Paralysis.

The Facility Every aspect of the facility and program are underlined by a focus on comprehensive care. Even the building’s layout is designed to ensure researchers, families, inpatients, and outpatients are sharing spaces – a constant reminder of the way Lynn Rehabilitation integrates academic study with the day-to-day treatment of patients.

And its location in the heart of one of the world’s most international cities ensures that Lynn Rehabilitation will be a hemispheric hub for diverse teams of caregivers and patients.

The Program While other UHealth-Jackson specialty programs focus on life saving, UHealth Jackson Rehabilitation Care focuses on giving people back their lives.

•

•

Clinical care and research sharing space; patients see the scientists developing future treatment, and researchers interact constantly with real people who need the results of their work A multidisciplinary team of Jackson nurses, therapists,

•

•

•

and other healthcare professionals working with physicians from the University of Miami Health System to create successful outcomes Our patients’ average daily improvement in function is higher than the national average and our patient satisfaction rates are among the highest in the nation Shorter average length of stay – our patients leave our inpatient facilities sooner and progress to our outpatient program or can go back home quicker Patients are far more likely than the national average to be discharged directly home rather than going to another medical setting

Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation Clinic Our outpatient physical medicine and rehabilitation clinic features the same world-class team in our new state-ofthe-art facility. Conveniently located on our second floor, our new outpatient clinic and gym is equipped with the latest technology to support our patients.

Technology & Design From our Hydroworx aquatic therapy pool and Eksobionics exoskeletons to our transition apartments and meditation spaces, learn how we get patients on the right track for recovery.

Services at the Lynn Rehabilitation Center • Neuropsychology • Stroke Treatment and Recovery • Cancer Rehabilitation • Spinal Cord Injuries • Burn Injuries • Pediatric Rehabilitation • Outpatient Services • Traumatic Brain Injuries • Transplant Rehabilitation Directions & Parking The Lynn Rehabilitation Center is located at the University of Miami/Jackson Memorial Medical Center near SR 836. It has multiple valet and self-parking options available, and is easily accessible via public transportation.

Rehabilitation.JacksonHealth.org 305-585-9600 www.OutClique.com/jackson-health

Content Courtesy Jackson Health System

Poverello with a Purpose Summer is a great time to update the community on the

a certified nutritionist. Consumers may choose from 47

growth of the Poverello Center! “Poverello” (poor fellow)

meal options, order online, and have meals delivered or

is derived from the life of St. Francis of Assisi’s devotion

ready for personal pick up. The Eat Well Food Pantry

to charity and poverty. Father Bill Collins followed this

served 3,500 patrons last year. The Food Pantry also

devotion by founding the Poverello Center in Pompano

distributes food to sixteen other non-profits for charitable

Beach in 1987. The original mission was to provide

use including Broward House, Kids in Distress, and the

food for community members who were shamed by

Pride Center, just to name a few.

society for having AIDS. Now located in Wilton Manors, Poverello is South Florida’s oldest service organization

Poverello also offers health and lifestyle services.

providing nutritious food and wellness for those living

Eat Well participants may take advantage of haircuts,

with HIV. While this mission continues, their services

chiropractic services, acupuncture, and a wellness gym.

have expanded.

The Wilton Manors and Pompano thrift store proceeds are returned to funding programs. All services are

Already known for the Eat Well Center and thrift stores,

rendered by volunteers. Much appreciation is bestowed

Poverello added the Extra Care Clinic to its programs

upon the 350 volunteers who worked the equivalent of

one year ago. The clinic’s goal is to improve care

25 full-time jobs clocking 48,900 volunteer hours last

for those who aren’t accessing medical programs to

year.

their benefit. Social detriments may hinder patients from visiting traditional care facilities, but Poverello

While completing your summer purge this year,

clients may receive help with transportation, rent, and

don’t forget the Poverello Thrift Stores located in

individualized medical plans through the Poverello

Wilton Manors and Pompano Beach. Donations and

Center. The welcoming environment run by caring

purchased items are vital for revenue to continue

volunteers allows patients to have needs met in an

Poverello programs. Items may be scheduled for pick

environment free of stigma. The Extra Care Clinic is

up or dropped off at either location. While visiting, take

funded through 304B pharmacy revenues.

advantage of “Snack and Shop” days when treats may be enjoyed while browsing.

In addition to the Extra Care Clinic, The Poverello Center is home to the Eat Well Food Pantry which

The

considers food as medicine. This service has evolved

is specifically searching for physicians and nurse

from serving HIV/AIDS clients to those with chronic

practitioners. Monetary and thrift store donations (and

conditions such as cardiac disease, kidney problems,

shoppers) continue to be important, especially as

glycemic disorders, cancer, and other critical illnesses.

grocery prices continue to rise. Volunteer hours are

Food pantry guests receive medically appropriate

always appreciated as the effort to help others benefits

grocery items tailored to individual medical needs by

all.

Poverello

Center

welcomes

volunteers

and

www.Poverello.org Author: Brickey Lane

OutClique.com | 71

Same great service and trusted expertise, but now with more options, giving you more choices.

Great service from everyone that we’ve been in contact with. Extremely knowledeable and quick to respond.

Always professional and ready to help with any questions we have had.

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Melissa Etheridge Pompano Beach Amphitheater

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SunServe Gala

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SunServe Gala

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Miss Bouvèé Tropics Bar & Grill

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Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts

17th Anniversary Gala

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Courtesy of www.AddictedUSA.com

Dragonomics The Business of Doing Drag!

I am lucky to call drag my full time job. But, it was not my drag that made it possible. It was my many years as an entertainer out of drag that taught me the importance of Business in Show Business. I often get asked, “How did you do it?” Like any small business owner will tell you, it was hard! But, I do have a few secrets I am willing to share.

Be strategic. Bring variety.

When offering up a show, make sure each show offers something different. At peak season, I may have 3-4 shows running in a week. But I make sure each one varies dramatically, not slightly. From tracked music, to live music, to Broadway to pop, to varying the look of the show with a singing partner like Jennifer McClain. Variety is key.

There is no place like home.

If you are living in a place like Wilton Manors, where locals mix with tourists seasonally, make sure the locals take precedence. The locals are everything to an entertainer.

They are, after all, the ones who bring their out of town guests and tell a friend when and where to go when they visit. Locals must always win.

Stay in your lane.

I cannot sew. I cannot style wigs. It is ok to ask for help in areas not in your wheelhouse. Remember however, you are the professional in the area you have been hired to, for lack of a better word, perform in. Stay true to why you

were hired in the first place. Don’t compare yourself to other people. Finally, take constructive criticism only from those paying you; they have a stake in your success, many do not.

Invest.

I cannot emphasize this enough. The most healthy budget you should have is a marketing budget. This means swag of some kind, an instagram, and a website; most importantly, advertising!!! People ask me how I got on the cover of magazines, full features, and dedicated e-blasts.

It’s simple, I paid for it! Why wouldn’t I be expected to?

Realtors, lawyers, insurance agents, even nonprofits, and other companies pay constantly to get their faces in the proverbial “out there”.

And for the cheap seats; PRINT MEDIA IS NOT DEAD! Taxes.

Know how to keep track of your expenses and your income. Know what is deductible and what is not. For example, did you know you can claim your miles to and from the club if they are issuing a 1099? Did you know the rate per mile changes per year depending on gas prices?

Do your research. The IRS itself has a ton of resources.

It’s not fun, but it's a very necessary evil.

I leave you with these words of wisdom sister queens and fellow entertainers; If you know nothing about Business, you will have nothing to Show.

Lipstick Lightening Q & A Q. If you could go back in time and tell your middle school self something, what would it be?

A. You’re gonna be ok kid. Your dreams will come true.

Q. What is your favorite period of history?

A. I studied the Renaissance in college quite a bit. Very fond of that period of time!

Q. What is your favorite song to perform?

A: I got this last month, but I am glad to answer again as it does change! These days, I am enjoying “The Prayer”.

Q. What is your favorite food?

A. Literally, anything Italian.

Q. Do you watch RuPaul?

A. No. In my entire life, I have seen 3 episodes.

Q. Where do you see Miss B in 5 years?

A. I would like to see her return strongly to the theatrical stage, but I wouldn’t mind TV as well.

Q. What superpower would you like to have?

A. The ability to speak any and all languages. That would be a SUPER power!

Q. Would you ever lip sync for a show?

A. I can’t see why not? Though it’s really not on brand for me, I could have some fun with that I think!

Q. What is your favorite Broadway show?

A. Hair.

Q. Any siblings?

A. My “manager” Eric has one older and wiser sister.

Follow Miss Bouvèé on instagram @missbouvee MissBouvee@gmail.com |

www.OutClique.com/MissBouvee

Author: Miss Bouvèé | Photo Courtesy of Timmy Wakefield

EVERY MONDAY 8PM YOUR HOSTS

VERANDAH LANAI

SHARDE ROSS CANDY COX

MERCURY RISING-COX

LEILA COX

Michael Dean As Cher | Photo Courtesy of Michael Dean

OUTShine Film Festival Miami

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World AIDS Museum & Educational Center

Meet the Queens: Up Close & Personal

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June 2023 Tracy Jones

1-18

Island City Stage

Orlando Bear Pride

2-4

Orlando, FL

CommuniTEA Dance Headlined by Martha Wash

4

The Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts

Latrice Royale

4

Parker Playhouse

Key West Pride

7-11

Key West

Summer Shorts: Homegrown Edition

8-25

The Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts

Oakland Park Pride

9

Oakland Park, FL

Leather & Lace / Onyx

10

Eagle Wilton Manors

FLoatarama

10

Fort Lauderdale, FL

Annual Pulse Remembrance Ceremony

12

Orlando, FL

Beetlejuice

13-25

Broward Center for the Performing Arts

Juneteenth Juke Joint

14

The Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts

Summer with the Symphony (SFSO)

15

Temple Israel of Greater Miami

Summer with the Symphony (SFSO)

16

Center for Spiritual Living Fort Lauderdale

What your Doctor Needs to Know - Part II A Safe Space Open Forum

16

Eagle Wilton Manors

Sunshine Cadets: Featuring the Golden Gays

16-18

Ashville, NC

Stonewall Pride Festival

17

Wilton Manors

Siudy Flamenco

17

The Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts

Pride Anthems

18

The Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts

Family Pride Day

24

Museum of Discovery & Science

GMCSF Disney Pride in Concert

24-25

The Parker

A Celebration of Friends

22-25

Pineapple Point Guesthouse

Beeltejuice

Want to get listed? Contact us!

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Jun27-Jul2 Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts (Orlando)

Info@OutClique.com | (954) 294-8560

July 2023 International Flower & Garden Festival

Mar1-Jul5 EPCOT

Revolution: Independence Provincetown

1-8

Crown & Anchor

Miami Swim Week

4-10

Miami, FL

Athens to Venice Cruise

5-15

Atlantis Events

Finding Nemo, Jr

6-15

Broward Center

Flockfest Events

7-9

Fort Lauderdale Beach

The Music of Barry Manilow

8

Aventura Center

Little Montgomery

6-23

Island City Stage

Summer with the Symphony

20

Barry University, Miami Shores

Summer with the Symphony

21

Center for Spiritual Living Fort Lauderdale

Jinkx Monsoon

24

The Center - Coral Springs

August 2023 Florida Out Coast Convention

1-3

Tampa, FL

Thrill Me

Aug3Sep3

Island City Stage

Roots

5-6

The Parker

Topical Heat

9-13

Key West

PrideFete

12

Wilton Manors, FL

Torch Awards

23

Better Business Bureau

Aug28Sep6 Atlantis Events

Athens to Venice Cruise

September 2023 WomenFest

6-10

Key West

Stonewall National Museum & Archives: Back to the Drive Celebration

21

The Venue, Wilton Manors

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October 2023 Men Having Babies

13-14

Pride Center at Equality Park

Annie / Broadway in Fort Lauderdale

10-22

Broward Center for the Performing Arts

Turnabout

14-29

Pub on the Drive

Headress Ball

26

Key West

Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show

25-29

Broward County Convention Center

November 2023 Launching Travel Expertise on Land, Air & Sea Cruiseworld

1-3

Broward County Convention Center

Chicago / Kravis on Broadway

7-12

Raymond F. Kravis Center for the Performing Arts

Carbonell Awards

13

Lauderhill Performing Arts Center

Funny Girl / Broadway in Fort in Lauderdale

14-26

Browad Center for the Performing Arts

Matt Mathews

18

Browad Center for the Performing Arts

OutShine Film Festival

19

Fort Lauderdeale, FL

Nov24Dec3 Nov30Dec22

Pig Week A Christmas Carol

Wilton Manors, FL New City Players

December 2023 Funny Girl

5-10

Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts

Pretty Woman: The Musical

5-10

Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts

Mean Girls / Kravis on Broardway

5-10

Raymond F. Kravis Center for the Performing Arts

The Book of Mormon / Broadway in Fort Lauderdale

12-17

Broward Center for the Performing Arts

Akio Suwanai, Violin

13

Raymond F. Kravis Center for the Performing Arts

Winterfest Boat Parade

16

Intracoastals. Fort Lauderdale, FL

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January 2024 To Kill a Mocking Bird

2-7

Raymond F. Kravis Center for the Performing Arts

The Cher Show

2-7

Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts

Disney's Aladdin

3-7

Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts

Which Way to the Stage

Jan8Feb11

Island City Stage

Trailblazers! The Women of Symphonic Music!

9

Broward Center for the Performing Arts

Hadestown / Broadway in Fort Lauderdale

9-21

Broward Center for the Performing Arts

Pinchas Zukerman, Violin

15

Raymond F. Kravis Center for the Performing Arts

My Hollywood Pride

28

Hollywood, FL

Visit Lauderdale Food & Wine Festaival

8-14

Fort Lauderdeale, FL

February 2024 Sister Act / Slow Burn Theatre

3-18

Broward Center for the Performing Arts

Vladimir Feltsman, Piano

5

Raymond F. Kravis Center for the Performing Arts

Feb16Sydney, Australia Mar3

World Pride Symphony Classics: Symphonic Stories "A Thousand & One Nights"

20

Broward Center for the Performing Arts

Jagged Little Pill / Kravis on Broadway

20-25

Raymond F. Kravis Center for the Performing Arts

Moulin Rouge! The Musical

Feb20Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts Mar3

March 2024 Winter Party

1-7

Miami Beach

Emanuel Ax, Piano

6

Raymond F. Kravis Center for the Performing Arts

1,000 Miles

7-24

New City Players

Moulin Rouge! The Musical / Broadway in Fort Lauderdale

5-17

Broward Center for the Performing Arts

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PRESENTING PARTNER

ONE HELLUVA SEASON!

PRESENTING PARTNER

PRESENTING PARTNER

FREE

City Theatre and Adrienne Arsht Center present

PRESENTING PARTNER

EIGHT FRESH, LOCALLY GROWN SHORT PLAYS BY MIAMI’S BEST EMERGING WRITERS.

JUNE JUNE 44

JUNE 8-25 PRESENTING PARTNER

PRESENTING PARTNER

An Arsht Center Event

presentING SPONSOR

presented by

JUNE 14

JUNE 17 2023-24 SEASON

PRESENTING PARTNER

AN ARSHT CENTER SERIES

AN ARSHT CENTER SERIES

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PRESENTING PARTNER AN ARSHT CENTER SERIES

JUNE 18

SUBSCRIPTIONS ON SALE NOW!

TICKETS ON SALE NOW 305.949.6722 • arshtcenter.org

Niki Fridh Returns to Island City Stage for Tracy Jones May 18 - June 18, 2023

Island City Stage | www.IslandCityStage.org

Actress Niki Fridh is no stranger to South Florida’s local theater community, and we will see her as the titular character in Island City Stage’s upcoming production of Tracy Jones, playing May 18 - June 18, 2023.

This four-person play follows Jones, who is sort of going through a midlife crisis. Feeling unconnected to the world and the people around her, she throws a party for all the people named Tracy Jones that she could find. As she sits alone for over an hour, nursing her Diet Coke, wondering if anyone will show up, epic loneliness is about to be tested beyond anything she has ever imagined. The anxiety that she's already experiencing in life escalates.

Full of comedy and heart, audiences are in for another magical evening at Island City Stage. Fridh took some time to talk more about the show and her role with OutClique.

Denny Patterson: Let me begin by asking, how excited are you to perform Tracy Jones at Island City stage?

Niki Fridh: Very excited! First of all, I love Island City Stage. Andy, Marty, and Michael are wonderful people and wonderful to work with, and I love the script. I think it's hysterically funny and very touching. It's like a farce with heart (laughs). When Andy offered, he was like, I want you to read this play and tell me what you think. I’m thinking about casting you as Tracy. After I read it, I was like, oh my gosh. I love it. It’s challenging and fun. It’s been a while since I’ve worked at Island City Stage, so I’m excited to get back in there and work with that crew again.

Denny Patterson: Playing the title character, what are you looking forward to the most about this role?

Niki Fridh: I’ve read this show several times now, and each time I read it, I love it more and more. I think what I’m really looking forward to the most about playing Tracy is the challenge of it. There's a ton of physical comedy, and there's a lot of eating and drinking on stage. People are like, you eat and drink all the time in real life, but when you’re doing it on stage, it has to be very well choreographed. You have to keep up with it and keep it real, because this is a very realistic play.

So, I’m looking forward to that challenge, and I know I’m in good hands with Andy. He’s a great director, especially with comedy. I’m also looking forward to making Tracy as human as possible and understandable. I want people to connect with her and be like, I know exactly how she’s feeling. I think the script really lends itself to a lot of connection between the story, the characters, and the audience.

Denny Patterson: Have you previously done shows with a lot of physical comedy?

Niki Fridh: I’ve done physical comedy here and there before. It's been kind of spread out over my career, but I will definitely say it’s been a while since I’ve done this kind because I really feel like this show is a farce. There’s always a ton of physical comedy in a farce, so this is a role that I really have to pay attention to. The play isn’t like, oh, look at all the silly things we’re doing. That’s not what the play is about. It just happens to be set in this place where a lot of physical comedy is happening, and it’s very much realistic. It’s character driven.

Denny Patterson: What do you ultimately hope audiences take away from Tracy Jones?

Niki Fridh: Number one, I’m so happy that audiences are coming back to the theater after the pandemic. That was so hard for everybody. Theater makers, creators, artists, and audiences - we were all watching and doing Zoom readings, and it just wasn’t the same. So, I’m happy people feel safe enough to come back, and I believe this show is going to really connect with audiences because it’s all about finding connections in strange, unexpected places. Same with the characters and who they are. I believe audiences will laugh, have a good time, and enjoy themselves.

Denny Patterson: Have you always had a passion for acting and performing?

Niki Fridh: Yes! When I was a little girl, I was always putting on shows, singing, and dancing. If relatives were coming over, there was going to be entertainment (laughs).

I was living in Rockford, Illinois at the time with my family, and when I was around five, the local college had auditions for A Christmas Carol. They needed little kids to play ragamuffins, the poor little homeless children. My mom was like, you should audition for this. You're always singing, dancing, or putting on shows. So, I went to the audition, and I got cast as Ragamuffin #3, and even though I don’t have a ton of memories of it because I was five or six, that was kind of my first introduction into theater. It obviously had a huge influence on me. I did theater all throughout school, and in high school, that’s when it really ingrained in me. I knew it was a passion and love of mine because I had a wonderful teacher and I was always in shows. I didn’t want to go to math or history. I wanted to go to drama class!

So, yes, I’ve always had a very sincere passion for theater.

I’ve done some TV and commercials, but I prefer the theater. I prefer the live interaction with the audience, and even though you run the same show for three weeks, it’s never exactly the same because there are tiny little things that change, and every audience is completely different.

There's something thrilling and terrifying about getting up on stage and performing live in front of people.

Author: Denny Patterson | Photo Courtesy of Niki Fridh and Island City Stage

Island City Stage Announces 12th South Florida Season An award-winning audience favorite, big Broadway dreams, a pulp fiction musical, a neurotic family drama and murderous mayhem will share the spotlight during Island City Stages thrilling 12th South Florida Season beginning October 12, 2023! Committed to sharing stories

of universal interest and engaging diverse audiences with entertaining, challenging, and inspiring productions and programs, often exploring the LGBTQ+ culture, the theater company will open with the award-winning dramedy Love!

Valour! Compassion! by Terrence McNally.

Island City Stage’s 12th 2023-24 season will feature: Love! Valour! Compassion! by Terrence McNally October 12 – November 5, 2023

Love! Valour! Compassion! - Terrence McNally's Tony Award and Drama Desk Award-winning play about eight gay friends who spend the holidays over one summer at one's beautiful hundred-year-old house in upstate New York.

Love, laughs, betrayal and life set the pace for this hilarious dramedy.

114 | OutClique.com

Which Way to the Stage by Ana Nogueira January 18 – February 11, 2024

Ana Nogueira’s playful yet profound comedy is about friendship, ambition, and what happens when dreams fall just out of reach. Broadway superfans Jeff and Judy eagerly await their idol Idina Menzel after her performance in If/Then at the stage door every night. But when a sexy stranger enters the scene and upends their decades-long friendship, the musical theater aficionados have to go off book to rewrite their own finale.

Pulp by Patricia Kane Music by Amy Warren & Andre Pluess with lyrics by Patricia Kane April 11 – May 5, 2024

July 1956. A hot and humid Chicago. Enter Terry Logan-tough-talking, rebellious, seductive. When she takes up residence at The Well, a club run by women who love women, the trouble really begins. Nominated for four Joseph Jefferson Awards including Best New Work, Pulp is a heartfelt, comedic love letter to lesbian pulp fiction and the Barbara Stanwycks of the world.

Skintight by Joshua Harmon April 11 – May 5, 2024

Reeling from her ex-husband’s engagement to a much younger woman, Jodi Isaac turns to her famous fashiondesigner dad for support. Instead, she finds him wrapped up in his West Village townhouse with Trey. Who’s 20. And not necessarily gay. But an adult film star. At least, according to Jodi’s son. Who’s also 20. And definitely gay. Joshua Harmon (Bad Jews, Significant Other) brings neurotic family drama to the forefront as father and daughter contend with the age-old questions of how to age gracefully in a world obsessed with youth and where love fits into it all.

Die! Mommie Die! by Charles Busch August 29 – September 22, 2024

Charles Busch’s comic melodrama evokes the 1960s "Grande Dame Guignol" films that featured aging stars such as Bette Davis, Joan Crawford and Lana Turner. Ex-pop singer Angela Arden is trapped in a hateful marriage with film producer Sol Sussman. Desperate to find happiness with her younger lover, an out-of-work TV actor named Tony Parker, Angela murders her husband with the aid of a poisoned suppository. In a plot that reflects Greek tragedy as well as Hollywood kitsch, her children slip her some LSD, provoking a wild acid trip in which many secrets are revealed. This production stars Kris Andersson – renowned actor, comedian, writer, drag performer and star of the worldwide hit Dixie's Tupperware Party - as Angela.

Returning this year will be Island City Stage’s introspective “Behind the Red Curtain” public forum series that addresses the stories and issues that inspire its shows, as well as its popular Women’s Night at the Theatre and Mimosa Sundays featuring a light bites reception and a

post-show talk back. Also continuing will be the popular “Comedy After Hours” late night performances featuring South Florida's best comedians bringing their uniquely warped versions of reality with killer stand-up comedy and a few other twists and surprises along the way.

www.IslandCityStage.org | www.OutClique.com/islandcitystage Content Courtesy Goodman PR

OutClique.com | 115

Wilton Manors’ first Gay Pride Parade in 2000, courtesy of Wilton Manors Historical Society

Male Dancers 1952-1955 from History Fort Lauderdale’s Gene Hyde Photograph Collection

Take Pride!

A Retrospective of LGBTQ Life in South Florida History Fort Lauderdale will present “Take PRIDE! A Retrospective of LGBTQ Life in South Florida,” a multimedia exhibit chronicling the gay rights movement and the impact of the LGBTQ community on South Florida’s vibrant arts and culture, business, media, and political landscape, from June 1 – 30, 2023, at Galleria Fort Lauderdale.

“History Fort Lauderdale is proud to unite the valuable legacies of our LGBTQ businesses and influential leaders who have worked to make our great city an ideal place to live, work, and play,” said Patricia Zeiler, executive director of History Fort Lauderdale. “The community continues to have a profound impact on South Florida advancing the arts, business and social scene.”

116 | OutClique.com

This powerful PRIDE month exhibit, located near Swarovski, between Macy’s and Dillard’s, will include over 100 historical photographs plus videos and costumes documenting the growth, awareness and struggle of the LGBTQ community through the years.

Photos will capture the liberation movement of the 1960s and ‘70s, the activism and rise of PRIDE parades and human rights rallies and the proliferation of gaycentric world-famous business endeavors including the Marlin Beach Hotel, The Copa and Backstreet.

A Photo Tribute Wall will feature lifestyle and significant event photos from Michael Murphy Photography. For more than 30 years, Michael Murphy has been capturing historic moments and memorable individuals that have shaped the South Florida LGBTQ landscape. In addition, the exhibit will

Miami Pride parade in 2000 courtesy of Stonewall National Museum & Archives

include the showing of “Open Dialogues,” an award-winning short film which captures the personal narratives of LGBTQ voices, produced by Art and Culture Center Hollywood, directed by Miami-based filmmaker Freddy Rodriguez and funded by Community Foundation of Broward.

Additional contributions to the exhibit are courtesy of Stonewall National Museum and Archives, World AIDS Museum and Educational Center, History Miami, Wilton Manors Historical Society, and Key West Art & Historical Society.

“Galleria Fort Lauderdale is a proud co-presenter of this historical activation that will recognize PRIDE month,” said Melissa Milroy, senior marketing manager of Galleria Fort Lauderdale. “We welcome everyone under the sun to join us in saluting local pioneers and learning how our destination has become a mecca for LGBTQ residents and visitors.”

History Fort Lauderdale’s “Take PRIDE! A Retrospective of LGBTQ Life in South Florida” is sponsored by Galleria Fort Lauderdale, Visit Lauderdale, BBX Capital, Castelli Real Estate Services, OutClique Magazine, HotSpots Media Group/Happening Out Television Network and GPR | Goodman Public Relations.

June 1 – 30, 2023 Galleria Fort Lauderdale | www.HistoryFortLauderdale.org Facebook.com/ftlhistory | Instagram and Twitter: @FTLHistory | Youtube.com/user/FTLhistory Content Courtesy of Goodman PR

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HISTORY FORT LAUDERDALE’S

MULTIMEDIA EXHIBITION June 1 - 30 Galleria Fort Lauderdale*

2414 E. Sunrise Blvd., Fort Lauderdale Chronicling the gay rights movement and the impact of the LGBTQ community on South Florida.

• Photo Tribute Wall by Michael Murphy • Showing of short film “Open Dialogues”

* Exhibit open during regular mall hours. Display located near Swarovski. No cost to view exhibit.

HistoryFortLauderdale.org

Photo courtesy of artist management

CommuniTEA Dance Headlined by

Martha Wash

The Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts of Miami-Dade County (@arshtcenter) is proud to invite the South Florida community to kick off National Pride Month on Sunday, June 4, 2023, at the sixth annual CommuniTEA Dance, the Center’s FREE LGBTQ+ Pride celebration.

Tickets to CommuniTEA Dance are FREE and can be reserved now at arshtcenter.org.

Hosted on the Center’s Thomson Plaza of the Arts, CommuniTEA Dance is a free event honoring South Florida's vibrant LGBTQ+ community. From 1 p.m. to 3 p.m., guests of all ages are encouraged to explore the event’s Pride Marketplace which spotlights local organizations, artisans, creatives, and small businesses.

Attendees will also enjoy family-friendly performances, interactive moments for children, storytelling, and singalongs.

After 3 p.m., the event will transform into an 18 and over tea dance celebration featuring tunes by Deejay Smeejay (DJ at Sky Sundays at Esme Hotel, OUTShine Film Festival, Miami Beach Pride), a marketplace, performances by local artists and a rousing show headlined by MARTHA WASH, the original Weather Girl, platinum-selling recording artist and two-time Grammy Award nominee. Ms. Wash, also known as “The Queen of Clubland” and lauded for her distinctive and powerful dramatic soprano voice, will delight fans with mega-watt hits such as “You Make Me Feel (Mighty Real),” “It’s Raining Men,” “Strike It Up,” “Everybody Everybody” as well as C+C Music Factory’s “Gonna Make You Sweat (Everybody Dance Now),” which hit No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100.

Food and drink specials will be available throughout the day.

CommuniTEA Dance is supported by OutClique.

June 4, 2023 The Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts | www.ArshtCenter.org Content and Photos Courtesy of the Arsht Center

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GET

LOUD AND

PROUD! a vibrant musical journey from 1969-today FREE

JUNE 4

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TICKETS AVAILABLE NOW 305.949.6722 | ARSHTCENTER.ORG AN ARSHT CENTER SERIES

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25

$

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*Artists, titles, dates, times, prices and availability subject to change. Ticket fees apply.

JUNE 18

Demystifying Critical Race Theory

Tuesday, June 6, 2023 6:00 PM - 7:30 PM The Our Fund Foundation 1201 NE 26th Street Suite 108, Wilton Manors, FL 33305 In honor of Our Fund’s Legacy Society The Howard Greenfield Memorial Lecture Series In partnership with Florida Atlantic University Dorothy F. Schmidt College of Arts and Letters Put simply, Critical Race Theory describes work and research done by “activists and scholars interested in studying and transforming the relationship among race, racism, and power” (Delgado and Stefancic). This discussion will cover topics and issues that bring us toward a more critical understanding of systematic racism including social constructions of race, racial discrimination and racism, racial Othering, “post-racialism,” and colorblindness rhetoric, historically and in our contemporary moment.

RSVP with Obed Caballero at ocaballero@theourfund.org www.Our-Fund.org | www.OutClique.com/ourfund Content Courtesy The Our Fund Foundation

The Our Fund Foundation Community Foundation of Broward Grant Recipients 124 | OutClique.com

The Our Fund Foundation & Community Foundation of Broward was privileged to award $250,000 in grants for our joint LGBTQ+ Social Justice & Equity Fund. Please join us in celebrating the ACLU of Florida, Barry University, Equality Florida, Hued Songs, Museum of Discovery and Science, Ujima Men's Collective, World AIDS Museum & Educational Center, and the YES Institute - we are grateful for all our supporters & judging committee.

Content Courtesy of Pierson Grant Public Relations | Photos Courtesy of Our Fund Foundation

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WITH LEGACY GIVING, WE ENSURE THAT A DONOR’S EXPRESSED VALUES + WISHES ARE ALWAYS MET. THE OUR FUND FOUNDATION is South Florida’s LGBTQ community foundation.

We help individuals plan their estates, so that their philanthropic giving can continue for years—even generations—after passing away.

TO LEARN MORE ABOUT HOW THE OUR FUND FOUNDATION CAN HELP YOU ESTABLISH A LEGACY PLAN, EMAIL LEGACY@OUR-FUND.ORG.

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LIFTING UP SOUTH FLORIDA’S LGBTQ COMMUNITY

Announcing the 2023-2024 Season of Broadway in Miami The Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts of Miami-Dade County (@arshtcenter) and Broadway Across America (@bwayamerica) are proud to announce the 2023-2024 Broadway in Miami season in the Ziff

Ballet Opera House with a five-show subscription package that includes two South Florida premieres, one Miami premiere, and the highly anticipated return of two blockbuster musicals.

The new Broadway in Miami five-show subscription series at the Arsht Center is as follows:

Pretty Woman: The Musical – Miami premiere December 5-10, 2023

Photo by Morris Mac Matzen

Pretty Woman: The Musical, based on one of Hollywood’s most beloved romantic stories of all time, springs to life with a powerhouse creative team led by two-time Tony Award®-winning director and choreographer Jerry Mitchell (Hairspray, Kinky Boots, Legally Blonde).

Pretty Woman: The Musical features an original score by Grammy winner Bryan Adams and Jim Vallance (“Summer of ’69,” “Heaven”), and a book by the movie’s legendary director Garry Marshall and screenwriter J.F. Lawton.

The Cher Show – South Florida premiere January 2-7, 2024

Superstars come and go. Cher is forever. For six straight decades, only one unstoppable force has flat-out dominated popular culture - breaking down barriers, pushing boundaries and letting nothing and no one stand in her way. The Cher Show is the Tony Award®-winning musical of her story, and it’s packed with so much Cher that it takes three women to play her: the kid starting out, the glam pop star, and the icon.

Courtesy of Arsht Center

THE CHER SHOW is 35 smash hits, six decades of stardom, two rockstar husbands, a Grammy®, an Oscar®, an Emmy®, and enough Tony Award-winning Bob Mackie gowns to cause a sequin shortage in New York City, all in one unabashedly fabulous new musical that will have audiences dancing in the aisles!

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Hamilton

March 13-24, 2024

Courtesy of Arsht Center

Credit: Joan Marcus

This “theatrical landmark has transformed theater and the way we think about history” – The New York Times Hamilton (@hamiltonmusical) is the story of America then, told by America now. Featuring a score that blends hip-hop, jazz, R&B and Broadway, Hamilton has taken the story of American founding father Alexander Hamilton and created a revolutionary moment in theater - a musical that has had a profound impact on culture, politics, and education. With book, music and lyrics by Lin-Manuel Miranda, direction by Thomas Kail, choreography by Andy Blankenbuehler and musical supervision and orchestrations by Miami native Alex Lacamoire, Hamilton is based on Ron Chernow’s acclaimed biography. It has won Tony®, Grammy®, and Olivier Awards, the Pulitzer Prize for Drama, and an unprecedented special citation from the Kennedy Center Honors.

Peter Pan – South Florida premiere May 7-12, 2024

This high-flying musical has been delighting audiences of all ages for close to 70 years and is now being brought back to life in a new adaptation by celebrated playwright Larissa FastHorse and directed by Emmy Award-winner Lonny Price.

The adventure begins when Peter Pan and his mischievous fairy sidekick, Tinker Bell, visit the nursery of the Darling children late one night. With a sprinkle of pixie dust and a few happy thoughts, the children are taken on a magical journey they will never forget. This extraordinary musical full of excitement and adventure features iconic and timeless songs including "I'm Flying", "I Gotta Crow", "I Won't Grow Up" and "Neverland". Peter Pan embraces the child in us all so go on a journey from the second star to the right and straight on ‘til morning – your entire family will be Hooked!

Les Misérables Photo by Matthew Murphy & Evan Zimmerman

June 18-23, 2024

Cameron Mackintosh presents the acclaimed production of Boublil and Schönberg’s Tony Award®-winning musical phenomenon, Les Misérables (@lesmizus). This brilliant staging has taken the world by storm and has been hailed as “a reborn dream of a production” (Daily Telegraph). Set against the backdrop of 19th century France, Les Misérables tells an enthralling story of broken dreams and unrequited love, passion, sacrifice and redemption – a timeless testament to the survival of the human spirit. The magnificent score of Les Misérables includes the songs “I Dreamed a Dream,” “On My Own,” “Bring Him Home,” “One Day More” and many more.

www.ArshtCenter.org | www.OutClique.com/ArshtCenter Content Courtesy of the Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts

JOIN US FOR

PRIDE TEA DANCE

SUNDAY JUNE 11TH 3:00 PM - 6:00 PM DRINK SPECIALS Margarita $10 | Tequila shot $8

FOOD SPECIALS Grilled Hamburger $8 | Pulled Pork Sandwich $8

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A portion of the proceeds will be donated to the Community Foundation of Broward’s LGBTQ Community Impact Fund.

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Tower Club Charity Art Exhibit to benefit South Florida Symphony Orchestra

Photos Credit: Steven Shires 134 | OutClique.com

South Florida Symphony Orchestra 25th Anniversary Charity Gala South Florida Symphony Orchestra (SFSO) recently celebrated arts and culture advocates who champion musical creativity and innovation at its 25th anniversary charity gala that took place on March 29, 2023, at Broward Center for the Performing Arts. SFSO’s milestone event debuted its arts recognition program, the “Sound of Success'' which honored Fort Lauderdale and Miami arts advocates John Evans, chairman and CEO and Steven Wozencraft, executive vice president of John D. Evans Foundation, Stradivarius Society, Jackie Grimm, cofounder and former board member, Stradivarius Society, Jerry Laskey, Stradivarius Society, Phillip Dunlap, director of Broward County Cultural Division, Charles "Chuck" Lane, board chair, senior VP/senior relationship strategist with PNC Private Bank, Beth Holland "SFSO Godmother," Stradivarius Society, Wilton Manors City Commissioner Don D’Arminio, Marc Martorana, Mark Turner, and Chuck Nicholls, Stradivarius Society, and Brenton Ver Ploeg, founding partner, Ver Ploeg & Marino, Stradivarius Society.

The gala, which featured an exquisite dinner accompanied

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by an intimate concert by GRAMMY award-winning artist Zuill Bailey, raised $50,000 for SFSO’s artistic, community engagement and education initiatives, including the impactful Symphony in the Schools children’s program.

During the event, March 29 was proclaimed South Florida Symphony Day and organization leaders Music Director Sebrina María Alfonso and CEO and President Jacqueline Lorber were presented with a proclamation from Wilton Manors City Commissioner Don D’Arminio.

SFSO’s 25th anniversary charity gala was sponsored in part by PNC Private Bank, David Valkema of the Maval Foundation and Sip Channé.

“Sound of Success” is part of South Florida Symphony Orchestra’s anniversary season of firsts. In this milestone year, the growing symphony announced new Miami performances at the Michael Tilson Thomas Performance Hall at the New World Center (500 17th

Street in Miami Beach) and received a commemorative proclamation from the City of Miami Beach. Last month, SFSO received a first-time National Endowment for the Arts (NEA) Grants for Arts Projects award of $10,000 for its Symphony in the Schools educational initiative,

“Preserving Our Coral Reefs.” Since its founding, this signature music education program has reached over 100,000 students from underserved communities and has provided more than $3.5 million in services and resources in the past five years.

Content Courtesy of Goodman PR | Photos Courtesy of Steven Shires Photography

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SATURDAY, JULY 8

Pop icon Barry Manilow had an astonishing 50 Top 40 hits and Billboard Magazine ranks him as the #1 Adult Contemporary Artist of all time. Now, Broadway National Touring performer (Fiddler on the Roof ) Mark Sanders brings you a magical and heartfelt night as he honors Manilow with powerful renditions of favorites including "Mandy," "I Write the Songs" and "Copacabana." Just like Manilow, Mark is a natural showman and his voice and dynamic stage presence will make you fall in love with these hit songs all over again.

@aventuracenter aventuracenter.org

Pride Anthems A Vibrant Musical Journey The Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts of Miami-Dade County proudly celebrates Pride Month with a journey through the past 50+ years of Pride Anthems. From Donna Summer to Queen, George Michael, Erasure, Madonna, Lady Gaga and many others, these essential songs will take the audience from disco to the present day. The story of the fight for LGBTQ+ equality is linked to this music, which evokes the struggles, heartache and liberation of queer lives then and now.

Pride Anthems creates a vibrant musical experience that celebrates, inspires and commemorates the legacy

and power of the Stonewall Riots. Featuring Broadway performers Natalie Joy Johnson, Kevin Smith Kirkwood and Jon-Michael Reese, with musical director Brian J. Nash, Pride Anthems is a show for all ages to come together in song and celebration of the LGBTQ+ community and how far it has come since Stonewall!

Pride Anthems is produced in partnership with Pride Live. A portion of the proceeds for Pride Anthems will be donated to Pride Live and the Stonewall National Monument Visitors Center, which will open in June 2024. To learn more about Pride Live, please visit pridelive.org.

June 18, 2023 Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts | www.ArshtCenter.org Content and Photo Courtesy of Arsht Center

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Museum of Discovery & Science New Discovery Spot Exhibit From the towering gravity clock outside to the massive IMAX screen inside, everything at the Museum of Discovery & Science (MODS) seems larger than life. It’s colorful, cool, and fun . . . and that’s the perspective of an adult.

From the eyes of a child it must seem magical, and that magic just got an upgrade.

MODS has reimagined and redesigned the long-popular Discovery Spot, a place for kids up to six years old to engage with the world around them in safe, playful, and colorful ways. “Children will be able to splash, climb, tinker and explore,” MODS CEO and President Joe Cox told OutClique. “This gallery encourages our youngest guests to make exciting discoveries through experiences in the freshly reimagined and beloved Citrus Grove, Ocean to Air and Everglades areas. Let's grow together through playful learning!”

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The new Discovery Spot is four thousand feet of exploration and STEM experiences. The overhaul of the 30 year old exhibit reflects new tools and educational priorities open to kids when their minds are like a sponge. “It is a priority for MODS to support the growing needs of our community. We recognize the critical need for lifelong learning to begin. Early childhood education has been part of our DNA since we opened our doors in 1977.”

Everyone Benefits MODS is a multi-generational experience. People who were kids when Discovery Spot first opened are now taking their kids. Today, the exhibits they remember are more nostalgic than relevant, so parents and caregivers were enlisted to help design the new generation of learning for a new generation of preschoolers.

“Parents and caregivers have been integral to planning the Discovery Spot,” Cox said. “They asked us to offer resources and engagement that builds their young child’s confidence in learning, provide intergenerational experiences that facilitate parent-child interaction, expose their young children to important issues such as the environment in a non-threatening, solutions-based way, and to make learning through play fun and engaging.”

Anyone who’s ever raised, or even babysat, a young child won’t be surprised to learn that studies show that toddlers will ask 40,000 questions. MODS’ Discovery Spot gives parents a fresh way to engage with a kid’s persistent curiosity.

“The exhibit is designed to empower adults to facilitate the process of STEM learning, allowing young children to engage in an iterative process of their own discovery rather than needing adults to answer their questions.”

Parents will see some new exhibits and new takes on

classic ones. The Citrus Grove, long a favorite with all generations, now features a playful, vibrant space that teaches how fruit becomes juice.

“Every few minutes,” Cox explained, “the ‘fruit’ drops from the tree and is ready for the Juicing Factory. Guests can climb the tree or reach it from the Survey Biplane platform.

Guests place their citrus fruit into lightweight crates in the Picking Grove, then take the fruit to the Juicing Factory where swirling water in the washing station, brightly colored juicing tubes, and whirling machinery pays homage to the Museum’s Great Gravity Clock located in the Atrium. In the Juicing Factory, guests can wash, sort and watch as a cascade of orange, lemonade and limeade ‘juice’ tumbles down a wall of kinetic elements leading to the rotating bottling station.”

Ocean To Air and The Everglades are also on display to teach kids more about the unique environments they’ll encounter growing up in Florida.

MODS.org | www.OutClique.com/MODS Author: John Hayden | Photos Courtesy of MODS

PERFORMED BY

JUNE 24 8PM & JUNE 25 3PM • THE PARKER TICKETS AT GMCSF.ORG DISNEY’S BELOVED SONGS REIMAGINED BY THE GAY MEN’S CHORUS OF SOUTH FLORIDA IN A CELEBRATION OF LIFE, LOVE, FAMILY, AND PRIDE © DISNEY

Something Magical is Coming!

Under the baton of Artistic Director Gabe Salazar, the Gay Men’s Chorus of South Florida (GMCSF) is proud to present two incredible concerts of Disney music for Pride Month on June 24 and 25, 2023 at The Parker in Fort Lauderdale, FL. This spectacular new concert celebrates LGBTQ+ life, love, family, and pride through the combination of timeless songs from the Disney songbook, curated video clips from the Disney vault, and the personal life experience of local chorus members.

themes stemming from the power of the diverse chorus community.

“I have been looking forward to these concerts since the first day I heard about this show,” Salazar exclaims.

“This concert is a unique program of music with which everyone can relate. I am most excited about seeing each aspect come together - our singers, their personal stories throughout the concert, the orchestral score, the movie projections, and so many other exciting parts."

We as an LGBTQA+ community are living in an unprecedented time of discrimination - encouraged by our local, state, and federal levels of government.

The social and political climate not only allows, but encourages discriminatory legislation. This is already negatively impacting many individuals and organizations.

The GMCSF’s Executive Director, Mark Kent, believes Disney PRIDE in Concert is an extremely timely, significant, and needed effort to reinforce the respect for all people and all times.

Chorus President Tony Corrente Agrees First premiering in Boston in June 2022, Disney PRIDE in Concert features sparkling new arrangements and draws musical inspiration from iconic Disney films like The Little Mermaid, The Lion King, and Mary Poppins, to modern movie classics such as Coco, Zootopia, Wreck-It Ralph, while also including the magical music of the Disney Parks. All music is interwoven with universal storytelling

“Get ready for a night of Disney songs that will make you smile and give you hope,” Board Chair Fred Boykin says.

“In these political times in our state, where our lives as LGBTQ+ people have been put in the spotlight, this is a concert in which you can find pride in yourself and leave with a renewed sense of joy.”

"There seems to be a rise in LGBTQ+ negative sentiment by a vocal minority segment of Florida's population,” he explains. “Disney's music is filled with optimism and hope, and I feel it is very timely for the LGBTQ+ community to hear messages like, ‘Believe!’ and ‘Wishes do come true.’”

As one of the country’s top 10 largest LGBTQ+ choruses and reaching more than 20,000 people annually, the GMCSF continually seeks to bring song to the community through large-scale, mainstage concerts in high-profile venues, community-based engagements, and volunteer projects. With over 170 members, the chorus has earned a strong reputation for excellence, garnering prestigious invitations to perform throughout the South Florida region.

In the past, Disney has had a mixed bag of experiences with the LGBTQ+ community, but many are appreciative with how the company as a whole is becoming more progressive.

"Disney is such a large global corporation that has come around to the LGBTQ+ community in so many ways,” Salazar says. “They have continued supporting our community by allowing us to share just a little of Disney

magic with our audience and community. I am so grateful to have the opportunity to partner with Disney to bring a show to our community that aligns with our mission as The Gay Men's Chorus of South Florida."

“Disney also recognizes itself as the family entertainment leader,” Chorus Vice President, Jonathan Sanz, adds. “With that, there's a responsibility to represent all types of families and introduce queer characters and themes. A central tenet for the Disney parks is that ‘to all that come to this happy place, welcome.’ Disney has embraced that message."

Bill Spinosa, vice president of membership and a founding GMCSF member, is ecstatic for the chorus to give this memorable concert its Florida debut.

"It is wonderful to see that we have opened up hearts, changed minds, and given a voice to the voiceless and

hope to the hopeless throughout our community through our music and message,” he says. “That was our intent from the beginning, and it has expressed itself differently for the past thirteen years."

Additionally, according to Director of Marketing & Sponsorship, Edward Otto Zielke, the June 25 performance, which begins at 3pm, will have a pre-show starting at 2pm.

“This family-friendly event will include activities, games, costume contests, and fun for kids of all ages,” he says.

“Tickets are going fast, so make sure to get yours soon!”

If all goes successful, Salazar can see the chorus performing Disney PRIDE in Concert sometime again.

"Disney is timeless, so I see us doing this show in the future, but we may wait at least a few years," he says.

June 24 & 25, 2023 The Parker | www.GMCSF.org Author: Denny Patterson

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Photos Courtesy of Ginny Dixon Photographics

Mistress Isabelle Brooks

Is Coming to South Florida with ‘Werq the World’

Houston drag royalty Mistress Isabelle Brooks, also known as “The Heavyweight Champion,” is one of the latest divas to enter the RuPaul’s Drag Race ring. Best described as “traditional drag with a modern twist,” she instantly became strong competition, thanks to her fierce talents and larger than life personality.

Mistress performs with the goal to entertain, and lucky for her South Florida fans, they will have a chance to see her in Fort Lauderdale when she comes to the Seminole Hard Rock on June 25, 2023 for this year’s Werq the World tour.

As the largest drag show on earth, this all-new production is a sci-fi adventure set in a dystopian future, where the queens must choose between the real world and the simulated reality they have known.

OutClique had the chance to sit down with the drag superstar and ask a few questions.

Denny Patterson: Thank you for taking some time to chat with me, Mistress! What era are we currently in?

Mistress Isabelle Brooks: My Drag Race era! Booked and blessed.

Denny Patterson: You are about to embark on your firstever Werq the World tour. How excited are you about that?

Mistress Isabelle Brooks: I’m very excited and nervous, but ready. Drag has been my whole life, now that I am taking it on the road, it’s everything to me.

Denny Patterson: Without giving too much away, what can we expect from your set?

Mistress Isabelle Brooks: Well… I will be there, in drag, doing drag things. See, I can troll in interviews, too!

Denny Patterson: What are you looking forward to the most about being involved with this production?

Mistress Isabelle Brooks:The ensemble! Like, legendary queens and someone named Sasha Colby. I think she’s new.

Denny Patterson: Werq the World will be touring during Pride Month. What does Pride mean to you?

Mistress Isabelle Brooks: It used to be hectic with orders from when I did wigs, but now it’s hectic with what city I will be in.

Denny Patterson: Do you remember the first Pride event you ever attended?

Mistress Isabelle Brooks: I don’t kiss and tell, and I may have a hazy memory of it, but it was Houston Pride with my chosen family.

Denny Patterson: You are now a drag superstar, thanks to competing on this most recent season of RuPaul’s Drag Race. How did it feel to make the Top 4?

Mistress Isabelle Brooks: Well, I thought I was going to win. So, to make it that close was an honor itself.

Denny Patterson: How meaningful was it for you to be the first Houston queen to be on the show?

Mistress Isabelle Brooks: Isn’t that wild? Texas is drag pageantry across the board. It was a huge honor, but let’s see some more Houston girls! It can’t just be me and Beyoncé representing.

Denny Patterson: What would you say was the most rewarding and most challenging aspect of your Drag Race journey?

Mistress Isabelle Brooks: Seeing everyone else’s crunchy drag, and appreciating how polished mine was from the start (laughs). But also, sisterhood!

Denny Patterson: Looking back, is there anything you would have done differently?

Mistress Isabelle Brooks: Probably win?

Denny Patterson: As we all know, the Drag Race fandom is very passionate about their queens. How are you navigating your newfound online fame?

Mistress Isabelle Brooks: It's different. It’s very much kind of like high school, but I just put my phone down and boom! They are silenced.

Denny Patterson: Before we wrap up, are there any other upcoming projects or anything else you’d like to mention or plug?

Mistress Isabelle Brooks: Just follow me on social media and buy my merch at MistressIsabelle.com. Also, come see me in Werq the World, coming to a city near you!

June 25, 2023

Seminole Hard Rock | www.SeminoleHardRockHollywood.com Twitter and Instagram @mistressisabellebrooks | www.MistressIsabelle.com Author: Denny Patterson

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Photo Courtesy of Voss Events

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