OutClique Magazine May 2021

Volume 5, Issue 6 May 2021

Oren and Michal BeWell MedSpa LGBTQ+ Advocates

Palm Beach Symphony

Mayor Dean Trantalis

Fort Lauderdale’s Arts Districts

Randy Roberts

Truist Corporate Equality Index

Care Resource Housing

BUSINESS SKILLS FOR THE MODERN CREATOR Virtual sessions for creatives.

Learn how to launch and grow your career in today’s marketplace.

BUSINESS SMARTS Open to artists and creatives of all disciplines, the free virtual sessions throughout summer include lectures, panels, and interactive workshops led by top-ranking industry professionals.

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ArtsCalendar.com/BizSkills

@BrowardArts

Steven O. Evans, PhD

Publisher and Editor in Chief Steven@OutClique.com

Arthur Wood III

Senior Associate Editor Arthur@OutClique.com

Connie Evans

Chief Copy Editor Mother of the Publisher

Sach AD Group

Director of Graphic Design

Chandler Scott

Director of Social Media Assistant to the Publisher

Chris Lodge

Director of Special Projects Assistant to the Publisher

Coleman Crooks Assistant Editor

Mike Ritzi

Sales Manager

Irv Scott

Sales Manager

Rivendell Media

National Advertising

Gregg Shapiro

Senior Entertainment Writer

Denny Patterson

Senior Lifestyle Writer

Contributing Writers

Andy Armano, Rod Davis, Fr. Jamie Forsythe, John M. Hayden, Marty Kiar, On Mekahel, Patrick Rogers, Eric Noel Roman, Cory Sanders, Fr. Rich Vitale

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

Transitions and Stability Photo by Michael Murphy Photographic

By Steven O. Evans, PhD Someone once said, the only thing consistent, is change.

I would have to agree. 2020 brought many changes to our lives and the world. We were rocked with uncertainty, doubt, loneliness, and fear.

But one of the most challenging parts of this pandemic has been the ambiguity of not only it’s end but what the “new normal” will look like.

Change is never easy.

Sometimes we make our own decisions to change. And sometimes change is put upon us by others.

And sometimes it may be the randomness of the universe.

But regardless, how we react and deal with change is ultimately how we succeed or fail in the end. We alone can choose our own paths, own happiness, and thus our own destiny..

Friends, whatever you may be going through, take heart. Be encouraged. And stay the course.

It’s also May, the month that we celebrate our mothers. I want to take this time to say that my mother and father have always been my best friends. Others have come along to join us as part of the “Evans family.” I want to take this time to thank them for all they have done for me. Through every change and season of life, they have been words of wisdom and encouragement.

So friends and readers, make this 2021 the most fantastic year ever.

Much love, cheer, and joy, from all of us here at OutClique magazine.

Steven O. Evans, PhD Editor in Chief

Mural in FAT Village by Ruben Ubiera / The Graffiti Kings

Exploring Fort Lauderdale’s Arts Districts

By Cultural Division Director Phillip Dunlap 8 | OutClique.com

I recently accompanied my team from the Broward County Cultural Division to FATVillage on a tour of the great murals located there.

Our purpose was to explore ways to create self-guided street art tours of neighborhoods in Broward County. The visit also served as a great reminder of the wealth of art that can be found around us and the role public art (whether planned or unplanned) can play in enhancing our environment.

Some of these murals came to life through collaborations between FATVillage and various artists, while others simply appeared, according to Tayina Deravile, FATVillage’s director of arts administration and community engagement.

Both of Downtown Fort Lauderdale’s arts neighborhoods offer unique experiences for residents and visitors.

Whether you explore on your own or attend one of the monthly art walks, you can easily spend a couple of hours exploring art, followed by lunch, and coffee at one of the many great restaurants and coffee shops. For some of my favorite food spots in FATVillage, check out Henry’s Sandwich Shop, Here and Now, or the somewhat-new food court and brewery, Sistrunk Marketplace. These gems can be found among the district’s warehouses and murals and may just show you a side of Fort Lauderdale you never knew existed.

FAT Village mural by Leah Brown

A

s a relatively recent transplant to Fort Lauderdale, I have enjoyed exploring the various neighborhoods within this diverse city. As someone who works in the arts, finding an apartment in the Flagler Village neighborhood, which is home to two of our most unique, arts-centric districts, the MASS District and FATVillage (Music and Arts South of Sunrise and Flagler Arts and Technology, respectively), has been especially gratifying.

The districts boast many great restaurants, bars, art studios, boutiques, and of course, exciting and ever-evolving street art.

OutClique.com | 9

Ruben Ubiera / The Graffiti Kings

Christian Feneck

FunkyPaint Smog

The arts in Broward County offer a myriad of ways to stay connected and engaged. We’ve compiled a list of organizations that are now open and offering programming for the community. Continue your explorations at ArtsCalendar.com/Reopening.

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Jennifer McClain’s Birthday Party at Scandals Saloon

Photos Courtesy of SRL Media

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Women in Leadership:

Achieving an Equal Future in a COVID-19 World AIDS Healthcare Foundation (AHF) teams in multiple countries held diverse and educational International Women’s Day (IWD) events in March 2021 under the theme Women in Leadership: Achieving an Equal Future in a COVID-19 World! Advocates united to celebrate the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women everywhere and brought awareness to the challenges women and girls continue to face worldwide.

In addition to in-person events, AHF launched a digital campaign that showcased its women leaders from AHF’s four global bureaus. They shared their experiences, including words of inspiration and resilience, which were particularly needed during the pandemic.

We invite you to explore the photos below to experience all our global IWD actions—and be sure to visit us on social media to learn more and share how you spent your IWD this year!

In addition to a symbolic march and touching candlelight vigil for missing girls, Girls Act members in Guatemala used IWD to officially launch AHF’s girl empowerment program in the country by reading a press release to local media on the importance of rights for sexual and reproductive health and HIV/STI prevention for women and girls.

Staff in Argentina focused on a community with high rates of teenage pregnancy and genderbased violence by organizing a workshop for 20 young girls. They reiterated the importance of girls taking control of their health and gaining access to sanitary pads, which are a necessity to ensuring girls in many parts of the world can stay in school during menstruation.

Half of humanity cannot be ignored! was the IWD theme in Haiti, where 100 advocates from Girls Act and partner organizations joined together for an exciting flash mob! Advocates

used the event to promote powerful messages on the importance of access to education, equal human rights, and the right to live free from violence and discrimination.

Nearly 150 people attended two in-person IWD events in as many days in Cambodia, where community and girl leaders conveyed messages about remaining safe from COVID-19 and the

importance of staying in school. Leaders from AHF Cambodia’s Girls Act chapter also held a virtual event that included a contest and outreach from women leaders.

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Nine sites in Nepal hosted IWD events this year!

Educational activities targeted youth from key affected populations, service providers, AHF staff and stakeholders, and dozens of HIV/AIDS advocates and volunteers. Girls Act members also participated in an AHF partner-led workshop that taught the girls basic computing and graphic design skills.

IWD actions in China attracted almost 300 people for promotional videos, interactive quizzes, and an informative workshop that advocated for equal rights and equal access to healthcare for women. Other areas of focus were fighting TB among women, mother-to-child transmission of HIV, and HIV rapid testing after the event.

Actions in Nigeria utilized mothers as mentors to target mother-to-child HIV transmission, a critical health challenge. These mothers, who double as “expert clients,” were selected to commemorate IWD and refresh their knowledge via interactive train-the-trainer sessions over two days that will, in turn, help them to support AHF clients in their communities.

NIGERIA

Lesotho commemorated IWD this year by hosting a lecture on women’s achievements and discussed the challenges and solutions that helped them navigate their way through the COVID-19 pandemic.

AHF Uganda Cares utilized a mix of community radio stations, megaphones and health education talks with local vendors to get the word out to women about staying healthy. Staff also conducted dozens of screenings for cervical cancer and STIs and referred any women needing additional care to the local hospital.

AHF Zambia partnered with a local art gallery to host an inspirational exhibit that showcased women artists and their work, which presented women as equals and deserving of equal opportunities in the art industry. The event also offered HIV testing and reminded the public that women must have equal access to quality healthcare.

ZAMBIA

AHF provides HIV/AIDS medical care and/or services to more than 1.5 million patients worldwide. Experience the advocacy on the AHF Films website at AHFFilms.org. Content and images courtesy of AHF. OutClique.com | 13

Summer Fun and Adventure is a Train Ride Away Photos Courtesy of Goodman PR

I

f you are one of the many who are feeling like it is finally time to get out of the house, you are surely looking for some adventurous outings, and we know the perfect thing to scratch that itch. It does not matter what your interests are, there is something for everyone in South Florida – from history buffs, parents, shoppers to foodies and more.

What kind of adventure are you looking for?

Here are a few to get your wheels spinning – all accessible by Tri-Rail, which has everything you might need, including onboard Wi-Fi, free parking at train stations, and 18 of those stations with connections or short Uber rides to these South Florida attractions. And it is just $5 to ride all day on the weekends.

of food, tropical cocktails, and beautiful views.

The train can take you there, too, but it can also make stops at other restaurants.

Shoppers The Shops at Las Olas, in the heart of Fort Lauderdale Florida, features eclectic shopping, with everything from fashion boutiques to art galleries.

Nature lovers Nestled in the beautiful neighborhood of Coconut Grove is the Vizcaya Museum and Gardens, where you can enjoy 10 acres of spectacular Italianate gardens and tour the main floor of the historic villa and estate of businessman James Deering.

Parents and kids at heart Visit the Palm Beach Zoo for a fun outdoor day with the animals. Or if you want to take the kids for an interactive day of fun and learning, you can stop by the Museum of Discovery and Science in Broward County, where there’s also an IMAX theater, or swing into the Frost Science Museum in Miami. They are both easily accessible via TriRail, which is free for kids under 5, which, let’s admit, would be like a dream for the little ones.

History buffs Engage in education experiences and innovative cultural exhibits, research, and preservation artifacts at History Fort Lauderdale.

Foodies Most of us don’t want to be on cooking duty every night, so why not give yourself a break and let someone else take over? Check out Bayside Marketplace, where there is an array

Taking Tri-Rail is not just a way to get from A to B, it is something new and fun to do and a great way to explore various destinations around South Florida. Visitors will find it is an easy way to get around town, too.

You can easily get to each fun spot above, and about a dozen others in South Florida, by taking Tri-Rail. Not only does the rail system have WiFi and $5 fares on weekends, but bikes are also welcome on board, too.

Find out more about all the places you can visit and where to hop on Tri-Rail at Tri-Rail.com.

You can also visit, like, and follow Tri-Rail at Facebook.com/TriRail and at Twitter.com/Tri_Rail.

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Celebrating 20 Years of Gay Luxury Travel Around the World

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SunServe at Johnsons

Photos Courtesy of SRL Media 18 | OutClique.com

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Kean’s Birthday Celebration

Photos by Keans Llamera Photography | Keansllamera.com

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Rosie’s Bar & Grill

Photos Courtesy of SRL Media 22 | OutClique.com

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Photos Courtesy of Bar Rita Photos Courtesy of SRL Media

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Drag Legend Candy Cox on Stilettos at The Pub Wilton Manors

By Denny Patterson

| Photos Courtesy of Mark Messenger

S

tilettos is a weekly two-hour event at The Pub Wilton Manors on Wilton Drive.

Beginning promptly at 8:00PM every Monday, local drag star Candy Cox, along with fellow sisters RaeJean Cox, Mitzi Ross, Verandah Lanai, and Leila Cox, take the stage to offer audiences a classic and old school drag show.

The host of Stilettos rotates each week between the queens, and the host is always responsible for booking special guests. There is no intermission, and each performer sings four songs. Stilettos has a loyal following, but newcomers are always welcome. Candy advises to arrive early. It has become a oneof-a-kind staple in Wilton Manors, but some changes have been made thanks to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. OutClique caught up with Candy to find out what they are and learn more about the show’s history.

Denny Patterson: When did Stilettos begin and were you a part of its inception?

Candy Cox: In a couple months, this show will be celebrating six years. Yes, I was one of the initial entertainers along with RaeJean Cox. We are the only two original cast members. We started as Mamma Mia Mondays at The Stable about five and a half years ago. When The Stable closed, we moved to Scandals Saloon as Country Queens at Scandals. Booking local

queens to do country was a challenge. After about six months, we changed the name to Stilettos at Scandals. When Scandals closed temporarily, The Pub approached us and said they wanted Stilettos at The Pub. We took a two-week break and began performing there in June 2018. Moving to The Pub was a win-win for everyone.

DP: What do you personally enjoy the most about Stilettos?

CC: The ladies I work with. We are each different,

but we respect each other and strive to give our patron a great show each week. The real show is in the dressing room [laughs]. Drag opened up a world to me. Early on, I was super shy in my male persona. Doing drag opened doors for me and helped my confidence in everyday life. I have met hundreds of people who I have never met if I were not a drag entertainer. I would not trade it for anything.

DP: How is Stilettos different from other neighborhood shows?

CC: We respect everyone’s time, so therefore, we start on time. We have always given a twohour show, nonstop. Six girls, four songs each.

That equals 24 different songs each week. That may be a lot, but we have an amazing DJ, Bill Hallquist.

For more information about Stilettos, visit ThePubWM.com.

To read the full interview, visit OutClique.com.

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The Pub Wilton Manors

Photos Courtesy of SRL Media 30 | OutClique.com

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Making It Reign

T

By John Hayden

he pomp! The pageantry! The philanthropy! Fresh off its investiture ceremony at Richardson Park, the Imperial Sun Court of All Florida is planning a calendar packed with campy events. The reigning Empress and Emperor, RaeJean Cox, and Michael “Imperial Mike” Cyrus, talked with OutClique about their ambitious plans for the next year of their reign. “Our motto is raising one dollar at a time through the court for the community,” Michael says.

The Sun Court raises money for local organizations including Compass, Smart Ride, Trans Social, and more, and they do it in some of the most outrageous ways imaginable.

They’ve been keeping up the camp despite a pandemic. “During COVID we had restrictions that you can’t have more than 10 people at a house. So we’ve had events online because we had no choices.” Some of those events included an imperial dress sale featuring frocks from some of the most fabulous queens around.

They also had a Cannonball Splash, with contestants in full drag regalia. RaeJean says it really made a splash. “We were going in. We didn’t care if wigs popped off, jewelry popped off. When you come out of the pool, that’s a different story. Make sure everything’s put back in place.” Fans watched online, commented on the efforts, made donations, and bought shots for the judges and jumpers.

They hope to make Cannonball Splash an annual event, and now that we’re closer to large gatherings being safe, the court is once again thinking big! “We have two big fundraisers we’re trying to get up and off the ground. The Caddyshack Challenge,” RaeJean dished, “is about golfing. We’re

gonna take it to the golf course. We also put together a Go-Kart Grand Prix. We’re going to have different heats, and get drivers.

Decorate your helmets!”

If it all seems over the top, well, Michael says that’s the point. “It’s brainstorming for charity ideas and following through with the ones that simmer to the top. Whether or not we’re making $200 on an event, $100 on an event, or $3,000 on an event, it takes a huge team of people. This cannot be done by a select group of three or four.”

RaeJean says their chapter is a model for the dozens of other Imperial Courts across North America. “We’re trying to do new stuff that the other courts haven’t done. They look to us as those crazy Florida people are just down there having a blast. And that’s what it’s supposed to be about.”

Both RaeJean and Michael are continuing their reigns from last year, a slight break in tradition. But because Covid disrupted so much, they say there is still much they want to do. “We feel like our work’s not done yet,” RaeJean said. “Because we’ve been in the middle of COVID we’ve only been able to do a small portion of what we want to for community outreach because we’ve been so clamped down.” Michael added, “We missed out on all the normal regalness of traveling to the other courts, doing parades, doing stuff that we had planned to do. We basically had to withdraw, brainstorm, and then come back out and figure how we’re gonna raise money. And we did a pretty doggone good job. Now it’s about rekindling relationships out in the community while raising money for the charities.”

To learn more about The Court and see their updated calendar of events, check out their website, ImperialSunCourtFl.org.

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Matty’s Wilton Park

Photos Courtesy of SRL Media 32 | OutClique.com

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e z O o B with a musical dragaret

@ Matty's 2100 2100 WILTON WILTON DRIVE DRIVE WILTON WILTON MANORS, MANORS, FL FL

Fridays 8:00 pm to 11: 00pm

Eagle Wilton Manors

Photos Courtesy of SRL Media

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Georgie’s Alibi Monkey Bar

Photos Courtesy of SRL Media

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Be Yourself & BeWell

By John M. Hayden Cover and article images by Andy Armano | AndyArmano.com 42 | OutClique.com

B

e well. Seems simple, but it’s harder than it sounds. The stress from everyday life can be tough enough.

Add in a pandemic and, well, you can quickly find yourself looking a lot worse for the wear.

BeWell MedSpa specializes in helping take away some of the toll that life takes on the body.

From BOTOX® and a facelift alternative to dermal fillers and lip enhancements, they have services for all your needs, including the newest CoolSculpting® elite technology for fat removal and a wonderful facial membership program. BeWell owners Michal Kitai and Oren Kiriat have a menu of services to help you look better, and feel better about yourself. “As a medical practitioner I do a lot of education with my clients. It’s a goal that we work together,” Michal told us. She emphasizes it’s not just about giving a patient a treatment, it’s about working with them to achieve their goals. She began her career as a medic in the Israeli Defense Forces before going to school in Jerusalem and moving to the states where she did her advanced degree and residency at NYU Medical Center. Michal has been doing injections since she was 18 years old and has it down to a science.

BeWell focuses on subtle changes. Their goal is for people to notice something about you after a treatment, but not be able to tell what exactly is different. “Whether you want to look like you did when you were 20, or enhance an area that’s seen more signs of time, we do really well with people who want to look like their best self,” Oren says. “People really want not to notice that you had anything done, but notice that you look great.”

They are introducing CoolSculpting®, a process in which body fat is “frozen.” Over a

few weeks, the fat cells eventually dissipate and die. Like so many of their treatments, this service makes gradual changes, until one day people notice the difference.

Michal and Oren also specialize in facelift alternatives, generally redefining the concept of the traditional facelift concept. “People hear the term ‘facelift’ and many think that they are looking at plastic surgery, but that’s really a bygone era,” Oren said. “We can address a facelift using dermal fillers that can enhance our client’s appearance. You won’t need surgery or downtime. The cost is also much more considerable.” The key is understanding their clients, while taking the time to get to know their needs. “The majority of people,” Oren continued, “do not need actual surgery.

They’re going to see results by coming to us.

We can provide unique solutions and we know how to work well with different client types.

These are the strengths that we bring to those that come to see us.”

BeWell also offers a $59 monthly facial membership. Once we get out of our midtwenties our skin’s exfoliation process slows down dramatically. Oren stresses that monthly maintenance is key to staying ahead of the game. “Just a basic facial that includes exfoliation, moisturizer, removal of impurities, and a balancing of skin tones will help expedite the process. These help develop collagen, which acts like the scaffolding for your skin.

The more robust your collagen, the more your skin is able to hold firmly in place.”

They also work with clients on BOTOX® injections, targeting their specific areas and keeping patients looking great. “Our skin is just another organ and it shows what’s exposed to us,” Michal stresses. “I have some people where I go to inject BOTOX®, but OutClique.com | 43

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also I talk to them about diet and lifestyle. I always ask what are their habits? What do they do? I also develop recommendations that are customized for each individual.” Michal likens it to having a gym membership. “I talk to them a lot about maintenance.

BOTOX® is not one time and done. I compare it to going to the gym. You can’t go to the gym one time, work on biceps, and expect to have huge biceps.”

Functional medicine services are also offered; such as testing for heavy metals, food allergy testing, and micro-nutrient evaluations which are key to know vitamin deficiencies and what is truly affecting your health and skin.

BeWell MedSpa has a very cool and laid back vibe and offers a refreshing beverage when you walk in.

They all try to create a sense of family among the staff and clients. One way they do that is in the hours they keep. They’re open late a couple nights a week, but are closed Saturday and Sundays, and start their weekends by wrapping up at 2:00PM on Fridays. “It is very much intended to build around our family time. It’s also how we believe as much as possible we should all be acting. If we can make a living that is adequate for you, and not have to work late everyday, to be home regularly, etc. If I can make that happen for my team, that makes me very happy.”

It’s a big change from the days of 100 hour workweeks of just a few years ago. With two sets of twins under two years old, Michal and Oren decided to shake things up and moved from New York City to South Florida. With faith in her skills they decided to open up BeWell MedSpa on NE 26th Street in Wilton Manors. “We started from scratch five years ago,” Oren told us. “We had no clients, no brand name.”

They quickly blended into their new neighborhood.

“We immediately became friends with people at The Pride Center at Equality Park. We became ‘founders,’ which means we give every month. We participate in some of their events. We joined the Greater Fort Lauderdale Chamber of Commerce and was part OutClique.com | 45

of their GLBX Council (Gay and Lesbian Business Exchange), which is their LGBTQ+ alliance.” Oren’s civic efforts were recognized in 2019, when the Greater Fort Lauderdale Chamber of Commerce named him Small Business Person of the Year.

Back home in Israel, Michal was very involved in the LGBTQ+ community. “My goal was to open a nursing home for the gay community.

I find it so amazing I ended up in Wilton Manors.”

The husband and wife team grew the practice and recently moved to new facilities on Oakland Park Boulevard. The new location doubled the amount of treatment rooms and they are already expanding again and offering new services. With three aestheticians on staff, they’re able to do even more facials, chemical peels, BOTOX®, and injections for the non-surgical facelifts, as well as lip work and treating double chins. Michal believes that preventive care is key to maintaining your look. “I’m very passionate about educating wellness and care. My goal is to treat you as you and work together. Everyone has different movements. I like to do a lot of preventative care.”

BeWell’s new building is easy to spot, as it has a colorful mural along one of its walls.

Oren says artist Lori Pratico was looking for a wall to paint and as luck would have it, he had a wall. The response has been so positive that Oren says she’s taking her talents inside.

“She’s coming to do more art in our space.

She’s working on something to paint in each treatment room so we can add some more pizazz.”

In addition to their work with The Pride Center

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at Equality Park, Oren says they participate in the AIDS Walk and, a couple of years ago he also rode in The SMART Ride. “I raised a couple of thousand dollars and made a million new friends. Personally and communitywise, it’s something very special to do.” Glen Weinzmier, The SMART Ride’s founder is always excited to have them as part of the team, adding, “Oren was a great addition to the ride. His energy and commitment to making others’ lives better is remarkable. We love partnering with other businesses and individuals in the community. It is truly only because of these partnerships that we are able to raise the funds we raise and help eradicate new infections.”

He mentioned the idea to ride with a good friend and Wilton Manors’ City Commissioner Chris Caputo, who decided there’s no time like the present to start training. “The next day Oren’s at my house at 5:00AM with a bike and says it’s time to start training.”

Oren is thinking about doing the ride again next year. He loves his adopted home and believes giving back and being part of the community is key. “I really like an environment of diversity; it’s important to me. It’s just nice to be among nice people.”

BeWell MedSpa’s new location is at 1699 East Oakland Park Boulevard, Suite 160, Oakland Park, FL, 33334, and you can check out their website at BeWellMedSpa.com. Whether it’s being part of the community or a part of their patients’ lives, BeWell’s personal number one goal is to be a positive part of everyone’s day.

From there, all good things will follow. “It’s important to treat people the way you want to be treated, or better, and be a good part of people’s day.”

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Truist Receives Perfect 100 rating on 2021 Corporate Equality Index

P

urpose-led financial services company underscores commitment to inclusion; earns top marks on Human Rights Campaign Foundation’s annual scorecard for LGBTQ Workplace Equality Truist Financial Corporation (NYSE: TFC) announced this year that it has earned a perfect score of 100 on the Human Rights Campaign (HRC) Foundation’s 2021 Corporate Equality Index (CEI) and been designated one of the “Best Places to Work for LGBTQ Equality.” This marks the 15th perfect score for Truist and its heritage companies, and the 9th consecutive year scoring a perfect 100 on the nation’s premier benchmarking survey and report on corporate policies and practices related to lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer (LGBTQ) workplace equality.

“We know that living out our purpose - to inspire and build better lives and communities - begins by ensuring equality and inclusivity for all of our teammates. We back these beliefs with equitable actions through our policies and programs, as well as an extensive benefits package available to all Truist teammates,” said Kim MooreWright, chief human resources officer and coexecutive sponsor of Truist’s PRIDE business resource group (BRG), which is supported by thousands of LGBTQ teammates and their allies. “We’re thrilled to be recognized

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by the HRC for our commitment to building and maintaining a culture that embraces and celebrates diversity, equity, and inclusion.”

The CEI is considered the premier benchmark for corporate policies and practices relating to LGBTQ employees and their families, as well as LGBTQ workplace inclusion. The index evaluates LGBTQ-related policies and practices including nondiscrimination workplace protections, domestic partner benefits, transgender-inclusive health care benefits, competency programs and public engagement with the LGBTQ community.

“While Truist has made great strides to embed diversity, equity, and inclusion in all that we do, we’re still on a journey and remain committed to advancing this important work,” said Ellen Fitzsimmons, chief legal officer and head of enterprise diversity. “We want everyone to know they are welcomed, valued, and respected at Truist—and we’ll always stand for better.”

To further its commitment to inclusion efforts, Truist also signed the Business Coalition for Equality Act and PwC’s CEO Action for Diversity & Inclusion pledge to advance diversity, inclusion, and equal benefits for all in 2020 and beyond. Truist actively supports eight executive leadership-led BRGs, including its PRIDE BRG, which is one of the bank’s most active BRGs.

More Robocalls Coming Your Way?

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

Y

ou are just getting ready for a meal with friends or family, and your phone rings. The number is not familiar, but you are expecting a call to schedule a delivery, so you answer. It is one of those calls, a marketing call from a business, and if you are like most people, you are annoyed.

Some legal experts are now saying that the Supreme Court, in siding with Facebook, will make it easier for more robocalls to come your way. So, what is a consumer to do?

1. Register your phone number with the Do Not Call Registry at (888) 382-1222.

2. Avoid picking up calls from unknown numbers as much as possible.

3. Consider installing spam call/text blocking software. You can get more information on options at FCC.gov/Call-Blocking.

4. If you do receive a call/text from a business and you do not wish to receive future contact, ask to be removed from their list.

5. Report abuses of the Do Not Call Registry and failures to honor requests to be removed to BBB at BBB.org and the FTC at DoNotCall.gov.

Government agencies have been working with the telecom industry to limit the number of robocalls through education and fines, but while there have been some successes, and new technology is helping consumers manage calls and texts to filter out unwanted contact, the results have been mixed.

Individual businesses play a big part in helping create a solution to this challenge. BBB encourages businesses to develop and define what information they capture and how they will communicate (method, type of information, and OutClique.com | 49

frequency) to maintain a positive relationship with customers. Policies should be clear and transparent and work to benefit both the consumer and the business. Separate from any legal requirements, practical policies should not be abused since consumers will likely disengage (i.e. opt out) if a business communicates in a manner that the consumer feels is not consistent with the “agreement” established, too frequently, or about information not requested by the customer. These abuses can create a negative image of industry, negative image for the business, and lead to a perceived need for regulation.

BBB encourages businesses to do the right thing when working with customers/potential customers. We are all customers and we know when we feel communication is acceptable and when it is not. Additionally, being responsive to requests by consumers to limit or end communication is also essential for good businesses. Best practices include an opt in, ability to indicate which type of information is acceptable to send, preferred manner of communication, preferred frequency, and the ability to update any of these parameters (e.g. opt-out or limit contact).

Some problems do not require legislation, but only common sense. Businesses that abuse communicating with customers and/or potential

customers in violation of good practices can be reported to BBB.org. BBB captures complaint data and the text of complaints and responses from businesses. If you see a pattern of complaints (i.e. a large number of robocall complaints, complaints about a business failing to remove, and individuals from their contact list), what does that information tell potential customers? Our local BBB has over 21,000 reports being checked every day by consumers to help them evaluate businesses and whether they should, or should not, hire or purchase from them. So, it is important for businesses to do the right thing when interacting with customers, not only because it is the right thing to do, but also because complaints showing a disregard for consumer’s privacy, may scare away potential future customers.

Consumers sharing their experiences (positive and negative) on BBB.org also help reinforce positive behavior by businesses. So, if you are being pestered inappropriately by unwanted calls/texts, sharing that information can help other consumers avoid that potential problem and the online visibility of your complaint may also help the business set up better practices.

Additionally, remember to recognize good businesses with a positive review at BBB.org/ SEFL. By sharing consumer experiences we all benefit by helping future consumers find better businesses.

OutClique.com | 51

CHAD LIVING WITH HIV SINCE 2018 REAL BIKTARVY PATIENT

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

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

Ask your healthcare provider if BIKTARVY is right for you.

Featured patient compensated by Gilead.

Watch Chad’s story at BIKTARVY.com

IMPORTANT FACTS FOR BIKTARVY®

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

MOST IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT BIKTARVY BIKTARVY may cause serious side effects, including:  Worsening of hepatitis B (HBV) infection. Your healthcare provider will test you for HBV. If you have both HIV-1 and HBV, your HBV may suddenly get worse if you stop taking BIKTARVY. Do not stop taking BIKTARVY without first talking to your healthcare provider, as they will need to check your health regularly for several months, and may give you HBV medicine.

ABOUT BIKTARVY BIKTARVY is a complete, 1-pill, once-a-day prescription medicine used to treat HIV-1 in adults and children who weigh at least 55 pounds.

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

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

(bik-TAR-vee)

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

These are not all the possible side effects of BIKTARVY. Tell your healthcare provider right away if you have any new symptoms while taking BIKTARVY.

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

You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit www.FDA.gov/medwatch or call 1-800-FDA-1088.

 Changes in your immune system.

Your immune system may get stronger and begin to fight infections

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

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

REAL

BIKTARVY

PAT I E N T S

ZACH

D’EVA

HUGO

CHAD

NIKKI

DIMITRI

Meet a few of the extraordinary people who take BIKTARVY.

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

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

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

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

GET MORE INFORMATION

Tell your healthcare provider about all the medicines you take:

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

 Keep a list that includes all prescription and over-the-counter medicines, antacids, laxatives, vitamins, and herbal supplements, and show it to your healthcare provider and pharmacist.

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

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

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

BIKTARVY, the BIKTARVY Logo, GILEAD, the GILEAD Logo, KEEP CREATING, and LOVE WHAT’S INSIDE are trademarks of Gilead Sciences, Inc., or its related companies. Version date: February 2021 © 2021 Gilead Sciences, Inc. All rights reserved. BVYC0413 04/21

Shelter In the Storm

By John M. Hayden

| Photos Courtesy of Care Resource

“We realized that our patients were going to be in serious trouble as soon as we saw business across South Florida and the nation close at the beginning of the pandemic in March (of 2020).” The Covid crisis hit fast and hit hard.

Care Resource is known for helping financially struggling people get the healthcare they need, but over the past year, they saw another need take priority overnight: housing. Claire Duleba is the Development Associate for Care Resource, and tells OutClique they knew the situation for many patients was about to go from bad to worse. “We realized very quickly that there was a housing emergency on our hands, and that we needed to act fast to help our patients stay in their homes during the pandemic.”

Claire and her team went into overdrive and created the Emergency Assistance Fund, with the goal of making sure anyone who came to them would get help as soon as possible. With all the other services they offer, including primary medical care, behavioral health services, dental, and STI testing, they could have easily left dealing with housing emergencies to others.

But Claire believes healthcare and housing go hand in hand. “Having safe and stable housing impacts every aspect of a person’s life. A patient who faces housing instability is more likely to have poor physical and mental health than those with a safe and stable home.” Claire knows the pandemic puts their clients in more

danger. “ Patients who don’t have permanent addresses or who move often easily fall out of care and have difficulties receiving regular checkups or communicating with their physician.

It can be harder to regularly take or access vital prescriptions, and chronic anxiety due to the stress of housing instability can manifest itself physically, causing further health issues.”

The people who Care Resource helps are people often left behind by the system even in the best of times. 87% live at or below 200% of the poverty line, and two-thirds don’t have health insurance or Medicaid.

The U.S. tourism industry has lost more than $100 billion in the past year and South Florida workers are feeling it the hardest. Many people in the industry often have to cover their own insurance in addition to rent and other necessities. Care Resource expanding its aid has helped a lot of people, but even as vaccines make it seem like the crisis is coming to an end, Claire warns that for their clients, things could get worse. “The crisis is not over. Even as we start getting vaccinated and our country starts reopening, we anticipate a huge wave of evictions.” To help keep the aid flowing, Care Resource made the Emergency Assistance Fund a focus for donors. Every dollar donated goes directly to the fund, and people can contribute at www.EmergencyFund.CareResource.org.

OutClique.com | 63

Photo Courtesy of Latinos Salud

Latinos Salud Grand Opening for New Location

G

et ready for a safe event that brings the spirit of community we’ve all been craving! Latinos Salud will be unveiling its new Wilton Manors location through our Grand Opening event, Wednesday May 19, 2021.

Latinos Salud’s first home 12 years ago was a tiny ‘casita’ at the back of a building, off an alley on Wilton Drive.

stage part of the event outdoors, too, with music and food.

How can you get your exclusive invitation?

Follow these simple steps: •

Before May 15th, make a new donation of at least $50 to Latinos Salud’s Florida AIDS Walk team. (Even though the Walk is over, the agency’s fundraising window is still open!)

In the box that allows “message to participant,” just write “new building.” That’s how they’ll know that your donation is related to this event.

As the agency grew its portfolio of free community services, it outgrew this space, and moved to the familiar building on Wilton Drive, despite cramped parking and the sun beating right through the wooden walls. The agency had to divide rooms several times to make space so that staff could provide several tests and other services for members simultaneously.

•

Now the agency that helps so many in the community will welcome you to its new home.

To maintain social distancing, they’ll have timed entries for the site tour. Latinos Salud hopes to

You’ll get first look at the new space that will serve the community better, and best of all, your generous gift will be matched by the Florida AIDS Walk!

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Latinos Salud will send your invitation to the email and/or mobile phone you provide when you make your donation.

Make this Your Year

By Steven O. Evans, PhD

D

ecisions. Life is full of decisions.

What to wear each morning. What to eat each day. Who to be friends with. What business decisions do we make. Do we take the time to exercise.

These and many others are so important to our lives.

As I continue on my journey with Genesis Health Institute, I am reminded of the importance and value of these decisions.

The dietary supplements, better nutrition, and exercise plan are all working to help me live a more healthy lifestyle.

But change isn’t always easy.1 I got out this past weekend (as of this writing) and walked

up and down the sidewalk of the A1A beach.

I have been to the beach numerous times, but never enjoyed that particular walk. After 2020, it was great to see smiling faces and hearing their laughter.

My friend Michael Madsen, from Colorado, jokes in his salutations over the phone, “Make good decisions.” But it’s true.

This year, one of those has been working with Dr. Cabrera at Genesis Health Institute. If you are feeling the effects of aging and needing guidance on decisions to keep your mind and body healthy, make an appointment to see them for a treatment plan that’s right for you.

Make 2021 your year.

Go to GHInstitute.com or call (954-561-3175) for more information.

They are located at 1001 NE 26th Street, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33305.

1 Evans, S. OutClique. “Transitions and Stability.” (5) 6.

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In the Closet

By Eric Noel Roman

Emergency care is just a call away.

Emergencies can’t wait, so please do not delay care. Because your safe care is our #1 priority, we are now offering Tele-ER visits so you can speak with an ER physician without leaving home. It only takes two steps: 1. Call 1-833-4-TELE-ER to schedule an appointment.

A nurse or member of our emergency team will ask you about your health problem and complete your registration.

2. Prepare your smartphone, tablet or computer for the Zoom call.

You will be sent a link at the time of your appointment. Using a laptop or desktop, click on the link or enter the meeting ID at https://zoom. us/join. If using a smartphone or tablet, please download the Zoom app and enter the meeting ID at the time of your appointment.

To schedule a Tele-ER visit, call

1-833-4-TELE-ER (8353-37) For life-threatening emergencies, call 911 or go to the nearest ER.

P

ssst, hey! Remember me? You saw me in that store a while ago, and impulsively bought me because you loved me. You were walking by and locked in on my bright colorful sleeves. The wild animal pattern on the front of me. When you came into the store, you quickly snatched your size and tried me on in the fitting room. The fuzzy lining hugged your skin becoming part of you.

Immediately after seeing yourself in the mirror you bought me. The excitement of us together made you so happy. My presence personifies your inner feelings. The vibrant colors mixed with animalistic character made you so proud to be wearing me in the fitting room. You went home and tried me on a second time and still loved the fit.

A few months have passed and you have reached for me several times, but you seem ashamed to wear me in public. I make you smile when you parade me at home. You seem to glow with pride when I embrace you.

However, you seem to think people will make fun of you for wearing me. There should be no shame in wearing me, I make up part of your personality.

I know it can be difficult to stand out from the crowd but I am you. Be proud of who you are, no matter how different or odd you think it is, it is what makes you unique, special and amazing.

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

Sex-Ed on Zambian Youth Day

Participants watch a demonstration on how to correctly use male and female condoms.

AHF Zambia recently commemorated the nation’s Youth Day by organizing a sexual and reproductive health workshop that focused on young women and men and adolescent girls and boys. The event was particularly vital for young women and girls since they are three times more likely to contract HIV than their male counterparts.

Fifteen youth participants gathered in Lusaka, the country’s capital, where influencer and adolescent health activist Bertha Chulu engaged with the group about protecting themselves from HIV and other STIs and preventing unplanned pregnancies.

The session also covered HIV testing, treatment, care, adherence, and support, and instructions on the correct and consistent use of condoms.

“We should do more of these gatherings, especially at a young age,” added youth participant Wesley Farai Banda. “That way, we can grow up knowing how to be safe, not

when we’re older, when it’s too late.” Another participant, Taonga Lungu, reassured her peers by encouraging them to visit health facilities for testing and reiterated how important it is for people living with HIV to always remain adherent to their treatment.

“We were glad to be able to reach these young people on Zambia’s Youth Day – events like these are critical for bringing awareness and education to those most affected by HIV/ AIDS,” said AHF Zambia Advocacy and Policy Manager Maambo Mweemba. “It’s especially imperative that we reach adolescent girls and young women, since they are at a higher risk of HIV and teenage pregnancies, primarily due to very little power when it comes to negotiating for safer sex.”

Zambia’s Youth Day highlights the value of youth to the country on the anniversary of disturbances in 1962 that resulted in young people’s deaths during the nation’s turbulent journey to independence.

AHF has been working in Zambia since 2007 and currently provides HIV care and treatment to 91,865 clients. AHF provides HIV/ AIDS medical care and/or services to more than 1.5 million patients worldwide. Experience the advocacy on the AHF Films website at AHFFilms.org. Content and images courtesy of AHF and Fiona Ip.

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Spiritual, But Not Religious

By Rev. Patrick Rogers

A

s a pastor and when I am out in the community and talk with others about United Church of Christ Fort Lauderdale, often I receive the response “No, thank you, I am spiritual but not religious.” That response has always intrigued me. I wonder how one can be spiritual and not believe in some type of doctrine. Even if one doesn’t belong to any type of organized religion, being a “good person” and being “kind” to others has some type of basis and was learned from someone or somehow.

Maybe this statement stems because we previously have been taught that for “good” to “count”, it must be sanctified by a religious organization. I have learned that no religious organization owns the rights or has the patent regarding “love.” Love is something that was instilled in us at birth yet unfortunately, some religious institutions teach us that love is “conditional”. So with that, I can understand many people’s hesitancy about being affiliated with a religious organization. I call our church a “family of faith” because the word organization is very corporate and our hearts and love are personal.

There has been much talk in the last 14 months about what would happen when church’s open

back up to live worship. There was concern about people returning. There was concern that people would become comfortable with their new online worship where you could watch church in your pajamas and also new Sunday morning routines. Yet, I have always felt that the last 14 months would help people realize the need for a religious community.

Last Sunday, we opened up our sanctuary for live worship again. Easter was certainly about the resurrection of Jesus in our Christian faith, but here at our church it felt like resurrection of our relationships with one another. The love between each other was in abundance. Everyone was so appreciative to see one another again and be reunited especially after the last 14 months of trauma. Love was the theme this Easter! There were tears flying all over the place!

Our church doesn’t believe in the “us” versus “them” spiritual mentality. We believe that we are all one created in the image of divinity. We may call ourselves Christians, Buddhists, Catholics, Protestants or be part of the Imperial Court of All Florida, but we all live in community together. Our religious institution is our community itself! We indeed can be spiritual and religious! Love is Love!

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

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Filling Stomachs & Hearts

By John Hayden

|

Photos Courtesy of JMH Creative

A

ny good drag queen will tell you, “a fabulous set of gloves can make an outfit.” Recently, all members of The Imperial Sun Court of All Florida put on clear, plastic gloves, and the outcome couldn’t have been more fabulous!

They met up at Ruth’s Ministry inside the United Church of Christ Fort Lauderdale and formed an assembly line making 150 lunches for the homeless and hungry people. One person spread peanut butter, the next, jelly, and then passed the sandwich along to be bagged.

Others coordinated the rest of the lunch; a bottle of water, container of juice, and a bag of chips.

In the end, rows of sack lunches were ready to go to those in need.

These simple sack lunches are part of a larger effort of the Imperial Sun Court of All Florida.

His Most Imperial Highness Crowned Prince Lee Hancock organized the event, and said: “I guess this is just my way of giving back to the community through the court. Hopefully this will help.“ Once the lunches were bagged, there was one more surprise for Ruth Ministry coordinator Ricardo Antonio. Reigning Emperor Imperial Mike presented Antonio with a check for $2,000.

The money was raised through some of the organization’s fabulous fundraisers, and Antonio says the money will go a long way towards buying food and supplies that are needed but not often donated.

The court does volunteer work and lots of fundraisers during the year, online and in-person.

To learn more about the Imperial Sun Court of All Florida and their work, check out their website at ImperialSunCourtFL.org.

OutClique.com | 83

Finding Common Ground Amid a Diverse Community

By Mayor Dean Trantalis

Mayor Trantalis proclaims March 25 as Greek Independence Day in Fort Lauderdale, marking that nation’s 200th anniversary of freedom from the Ottoman Empire. | Photo Courtesy of Office of Mayor Dean J. Trantalis

D

uring my years in public service, one of my efforts has been to bring together our communities of faith, work through past differences, and look for opportunities to build bridges where they did not previously exist. Where once there was division, I have sought cooperation to improve our community.

Recently, the city took the opportunity to recognize the 60th anniversary of Coral Ridge Presbyterian Church. This was through a proclamation requested by the district commissioner, Heather Moraitis, and it represented an opportunity to resume the process of conciliation within the faith community.

Within this past month, I also issued proclamations for such things as Water Conservation Month and the Pine Crest School’s girls swimming and diving team winning their state championship.

Not only did I view the Coral Ridge proclamation in that context, but I also have appreciated the church being part of my larger conversation about tackling Fort Lauderdale’s intractable problems.

Some of you may ask: So, what was the controversy then? There exists a long and bitter history between the church’s founder, the late Dr. D. James Kennedy, and Fort Lauderdale’s LGBTQ+ community. That led some to question the appropriateness of the proclamation.

Thirty years ago, I picketed Dr. Kennedy with many of my LGBTQ+ colleagues. There were rhetoric and deeds that denigrated all of us who are gay, lesbian, or transgender. We were rightfully outraged.

I’ll share one story in particular – that of my late friend and colleague, Justin Flippen. He died tragically a year ago while mayor of Wilton Manors. He told me how he underwent two years of conversion therapy at Coral Ridge when he was in high school. Simply put – that was wrong. But, Fort Lauderdale is an evolving community.

Coral Ridge’s current pastor, Rob Pacienza, readily joined my interfaith effort, as have other evangelical Christians such as Stephan Tchividjian of the National Christian Foundation and Eddie Copeland of Church United; so have leaders of LGBT-affirming religious institutions, including the Sunshine Cathedral, the Church of the Holy Spirit Song, and Etz Chaim Synagogue.

Together, we have made much progress because we understand that there is more that unites us than divides us. We all want to help address the vast needs in our community: the homeless, the poor and elderly in need of daily sustenance, the problems of drug and alcohol abuse … I could go on.

In the spirit of wanting to move away from the past and look for ways to bring our community together, Pastor Pacienza and I agreed to put down in writing a joint statement regarding our work together.

I look forward to continuing this effort on behalf of our city.

Yours, Dean

OutClique.com | 85

Case of the Ex

By On & Dave Mekahel Cederberg

|

Photo By: Fabien Bulteau

E

xes. Most of us have had one, just like most of us are one. For such a widely common social thread, it is surprising that there is not more of a cultural standard in terms of how we are expected to deal with them, once it happens. It is likely that many factors play into why there is not more of a dialogue surrounding it, namely most people keep their private affairs just that, private, especially when it comes to “failures.” In an era where “anything goes” and non-traditional approaches to sex and sexuality are not only front and center, but also accepted and revered, it is time to sort out just what to do when we are presented with the (sometimes) inevitable case of the ex.

What if we were friends first? The list of circumstances (or rationalizations depending on how you view it) can be endless. Dave has long subscribed to the removal method – this entails wiping an ex from the present and leaving the relationship (and person) in the past. Although this might seem to be over the top, it is not implemented with rigorous anxiety and malice, but rather from a place of genuine understanding, acceptance and foresight. He is also a strong believer in the old adage, some people are in your life for a reason and others for a season.

This concept is also applicable to a break-up. By default, the end of a romantic relationship ends with a season, since “because we used to sleep together” isn’t a substantive leg to stand on. The most counterproductive thing to do is to keep the person with whom you are trying to remove from your habitual domestic life, in your orbit – yes that means everything from checking up on social media platforms to hook ups. Just because the relationship is over, that doesn’t mean the boundaries are too. On, with his huge heart, favors the idea of finding a space in his life for an ex. When he met Dave, he still had his ex, the one who broke his heart, stashed in random places throughout his life. There was a cell phone plan with his ex’s name on it, random birthday messages and text exchanges regarding clerical issues lingering from years past. Dave urged On to put a mild amount of effort into respectfully ignoring the ex, as he himself had reaped the personal benefits of doing so from previous relationships. Throughout conversations, On quickly saw that from a respect standpoint,

86 | OutClique.com

the communication with the ex was not ideal, especially now that there is another party, his new partner, involved. Ultimately the communication between On and his ex all but ended as On disengaged in the most appropriate manner. Three years later, his ex came back around during what was seemingly a personal low point for himself.

He was not hesitant to send inappropriate texts and voice messages reliving the relationship past while also interfering with On’s presence. The boomerang effect that took place left our heads spinning and our minds made up – exes (for the most part) all have a special place together, and it’s not within the confines of our relationship. As it pertains to the ex, you give someone an inch, they eventually come back for the whole mile.

All of this is not to say that some of you reading this do not have circumstances within your relationship that defy experiences or perceptions and practices that we discussed. The takeaway is not that it is wrong or unhealthy for an ex to take on another role in your present life, but rather opening the conversation and thought processes surrounding the tendency we have to hoard people over the course of our life, when sometimes the best thing to do is to surrender the relationship and the connection. The uber connected, online world that we live in does not make this an easy task. Because of this, a great deal of purpose and intent is needed to dissolve a relationship and the physical person left behind. Life is only as good as the relationships that we cherish; choose wisely and dedicate yourself thoughtfully.

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Bars: The Evolution

T

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

With the subculture emerging, so did the establishments, pioneering the bar versions of motorcycle clubs. As the popularity rises, so do the number of venues to support the movement.

The 1950’s bars started opening, with Chicago’s Gold Coast being the first in 1958, followed by The Tool Box in San Francisco in 1961.

The community grew and as our human right for equality gained strength, the birth of social activism formed, leading the fight. Today they still have the same purpose, from monthly events, a night of dancing, meeting your next true love, or hosting fundraisers for every cause you can name.

Our two leather bars in South Florida are a substantial part of the community, a history of who we are, the meeting place, the social event, and the comfort of family. Following the traditions of the past with the challenges of today, if it’s a cause or fundraiser for children, equality, or to celebrate, I never heard “no.” A personal thank you to both Eagle Wilton Manors and Ramrod Bar, both good friends to have in your corner.

Ramrod Bar, a pillar for 27 years, is our own piece of Southern Decadence and home of Levi™, leather and uniform, exposing its Old Guard style. It’s a dimly lit necessary evil with a “space” around every corner. The afternoon gang or the late night cruising energy, it’s a place to be seen or blend into shadows. You deserve the experience. Manager, Kevin Wright, first worked at 501 Eagle Indianapolis and is very embedded in tradition. They never disappoint with Ramrod Bar being home to the Cigar Social and monthly Pig Dance. Both bars were my first leather bars some 25 years ago.

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Photo credit: Sabino Paulicelli Photography

oday’s leather culture evolution started in the 1950’s biker clubs/bars. In the beginning Levi™, leather, and uniform, was the norm with today embracing old and new guards alike. In my November 2020 article about history, I only touched base on the influence of the bars.

Eagle Wilton Manors, established in 2019, is drenched in Eagle traditions. Exciting energy at any vantage point and driving a leather momentum, it transforms you to euphoria. Eagle Wilton Manors features multiple bars, a leather shop, inviting dance floor, numerous events, and incredible shows, including Starlet Skye’s Sunday Service. This isn’t Chuck King’s first time at the leather-rodeo, making the experience special for everyone. Many clubs and organizations call Eagle Wilton Manors home, proving its position alongside Ramrod Bar. When we look to history, when we remember the places that allowed us to be ourselves, when we revisit the past and live in the present, we feel the companionship of our community. I have never felt judged, faulted, or shamed. I only felt love, and as an outsider of the time, a “deviant” as some have said, I remember what I felt was unconditional love.

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Island City Orchid Project

By Chuck Nicholls

Photos Courtesy of Equality Garden Club and Chuck Nicholls

Lasting Impressions at the Arsht Center May 19 – June 16, 2021

W

e are excited to bring the cutting edge of immersive art exhibits to the Arsht Center for a limited engagement.

We have tickets available for promotional or trade opportunities. These can be used for social, on-air or on-line promotional giveaways or trade for client and staff use.

Lasting Impressions is a towering, experiential installation of sight and sound that transports guests into more than 100 of the world’s most recognizable masterpieces.

This fully immersive experience uses one of a kind 3D/LED technology, projections, music, and lighting to create an experience like no other, allowing guests to see the artist’s brushstrokes as paintings come to life all around them.

Lasting Impressions is a one hour, timed entry experience that is perfect for all ages and wheelchair accessible. Safely distanced, limited capacity presentations are available from 10:00AM to 10:00PM beginning May 19, 2021.

Content and image courtesy of the Arsht Center.

Over the past 150 years South Florida was a tropical paradise where native orchids were found in abundance in undeveloped land and hammocks. Beginning in the late 1980’s the Florida East Coast Railroad brought not only the development of urban real estate and agriculture, but also collectors who raped the trees of orchids by the millions that were then shipped up North by railway and sold and subsequently died. As a consequence, native orchids dwindled in South Florida.

Equality Garden Club (EGC) is working to restore some of South Florida’s rare and endangered orchid species into our urban landscape, specifically to Richardson Historic Park and Nature Preserve in Wilton Manors, Florida. This project is part of the Fairchild Tropical Botanical Garden’s “Million Orchid Project” (MOP) to help populate South Florida with native orchids.

EGC will install and maintain 1,000 Florida native orchids during the spring and summer of 2021, which includes • Coordinating and direct volunteer efforts during planting of the orchids • Providing education and outreach in the community • Engaging community members in habitat restoration projects, providing resources like native plants and communicating through websites and social media For further information: EqualityGardenClub.com or contact Chuck Nicholls at info@EqualityGardenClub.com. We are asking the public for funds to help make this happen. The EGC website has a go-fund-me page for those wishing to contribute.

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History in the Making

By John M. Hayden

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rom marginalization to marriage, the closet to living life out and proud, the history of the LGBTQ+ community has been marked with heartbreaking violence to soul-restoring triumph. The keepers of that history have long been in Fort Lauderdale at the Stonewall National Museum & Archives (SNMA), and they are asking you to join them.

Their membership drive is underway, and Executive Director Hunter O’Hanian told OutClique that it’s not just about raising money, it’s about being part of the community. “In its 50 years, Stonewall has been a community resource. Membership has always been part of who we are. We have had thousands of people who have stepped forward to say they support the need to preserve and present our heritage.

That’s what membership says. It says: this is something important that I support, not just for me but for those who were before and also who are yet to find their voice.”

With more than six million pages of documents and records, SNMA holds critical pieces of our story, a story that often isn’t told to much of the world. To tell that story, they hold exhibits year round.

In addition to the physical displays at the museum (they reopened in July 2020), many of the exhibits are available online, and they just opened two shows. “First, we

have Off Our Backs, a look at early lesbian publications from 1950 to 2000. We also have The Saint, a look at the iconic disco in NYC in the 1980s. Both exhibitions have objects and ideas found in Stonewall’s archives.”

Hunter says the pandemic created a lot of challenges, but also provided an opportunity to find new fans. “We’ve challenged ourselves on every front and found new ways to tell cultural truths. We have launched a virtual programming series which has found a national audience. We have smart, professional exhibitions based on LGBTQ+ history. We have launched a queer studies journal. We have received funding from major national foundations and begun the digitization of our archives which can now reach an international audience of scholars, writers, and artists.

We have retooled our vision and plan for the future.”

Hunter has been with SNMA for a year and a half, and says the history he learns makes it all worthwhile. “I like the stories I hear,” and he wants our community to join him. “While we are a small and mighty non-profit, we are blessed to have the responsibility of accurately preserving history for future generations. Thankfully many people understand our charge and actively want to be members.”

To donate or just learn more about the historical treasure trove, check out their website, Stonewall-Museum.org.

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OutClique.com | 105

Creative Condom Containers Debut on Campus!

A Condom Ambassador explains the idea behind his condom container design.

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contest featuring creative ideas for condom distribution containers on a local university campus was the focus of a recent event organized by AHF China and government health authority partners. The student-led initiative aimed to reach the more than 60% of sexually active college attendees across the country who reportedly do not use condoms.

Judges for the Condom Ambassador Alliance campaign selected nine winning contestants from dozens of submitted designs for condom containers. Those selectees then placed their finished products at different locations across the Shanxi University campus and uploaded photos to social media.

One Condom Ambassador who placed his container where students retrieve their packages said, “This is where almost every student goes every day. It’ll remind us that condoms are a must-have for sex!” Another

A winning contestant describes howhis design is perfect for accessing condoms in school bathrooms.

competitor added that condoms should be placed in public bathrooms – which would help destigmatize them and “make condoms fashionable and cool!”

“Recent research tells us that more than 3,000 students contract HIV every year, primarily due to unprotected sex,” said AHF Asia Deputy Bureau Chief Dr. Yugang Bao. “It’s vital that young people take control of their health, and with campaigns like the Condom Ambassador Alliance, students can help educate their peers on HIV prevention and let them know the importance of practicing safer sex.”

After the awards ceremony, the selectees participated in a workshop where they expressed their visions and plans for future condom advocacy activities at the college.

AHF China plans to expand the Condom Ambassador Alliance campaign and HIV testing to schools across all provinces where AHF operates.

AHF China and project partners jointly promote high-quality antiviral treatment and care services to benefit more clients. As of the end of 2019, AHF China has provided treatment and care services for 140,223 HIV/AIDS cases, with the rate of treatment of 97.4%. Content and images courtesy of AHF and Fiona Ip.

106 | OutClique.com

Donovan Russo on Debut Book Steven’s War

By Denny Patterson

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Photos Courtesy of Donovan Russo

uthor and college student Donovan Russo hopes to bring more LGBTQ representation to the superhero/vigilante genre with his debut novel, Steven’s War. A highly entertaining and gripping story, Steven’s War tells the story of Steven Cahill, a closeted Marine serving in Afghanistan during the “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” period of the military. After enduring a devastating loss on the battlefield, Steven is sent back home to the crime-ridden Salem City. When Steven’s world further crumbles, he embarks on a vengeful quest to take down the man responsible for Salem’s corruption.

The novel is a dark thriller which smartly and uniquely weaves in LGBTQ themes. In fact, 108 | OutClique.com

Russo opens with a Harvey Milk quote, “Hope is being able to see that there is light despite all of the darkness.”

Russo took some time to chat more about the book with OutClique.

Denny Patterson: Hi, Donovan! Thank you for taking some time to chat with me about your book, Steven’s War. How exciting is it to publish your debut novel?

Donovan Russo: Thanks so much for your time and consideration, Denny! Publishing my novel and holding the book in my hand for the first time was such a crazy experience. It felt satisfying, special, and as if this long and tiring process has finally come to fruition.

DP: Can you tell us what inspired you to write Steven’s War?

DR: I have been a fan of the comic book

genre since I was five years old. I am 24 now. So, the Marvel and DC movies, shows, and literary works have inspired me greatly in my life. Therefore, and because I like to write, I was looking for an opportunity to kind of put my own spin on the genre. In regards to why I wanted to write this character as a member of the LGBTQ community, there are a couple reasons. First, because I am an MBA candidate, I always try to look at things in terms of the marketplace. With that being said, there are not a lot of LGBTQ superheroes that I am familiar with. I saw this as a chance to create a product that would be different. Second, and from a creative standpoint, I thought that making my protagonist gay would add more to his characterization, as I could then dive deeper into the internal conflicts that he is struggling with. Lastly, although there are LGBTQ superheroes out there for fans, I think we can both agree that more representation is needed.

Hence, I wanted to do my part in creating a character that an underrepresented group could resonate with.

DP: There are not too many

books that focus on the controversial “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” policy. Why did you want to include this?

DR: I learned about this policy while conducting

my research, and I was honestly heartbroken over it. Overall, I thought that utilizing it would add a sense of realness to the story, especially in those early chapters that are set in the Middle East. Although “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” is no longer a rule, I still think its impact is present in today’s world. Especially when it comes to environments that still ooze with toxic masculinity and heteronormativity.

DP: What do you hope readers take away from the book?

DR: There are a few goals or ideas that I want

consumers to take away from this book. First, although it has been marketed as a superhero narrative, I think anyone who enjoys character driven stories could appreciate it. Second, you do not have to be a member of the LGBTQ community to enjoy it, as there is something in this novel for everyone. Lastly, I did not have a political agenda while writing this. Yes, there is a critique of homophobia in it, but the heart of the book largely focuses on this messed up guy who is just trying to figure out his life. I think we all could relate to that.

DP: Have you always had a passion for writing?

DR: Yes! I have written for CNBC and

Yahoo Finance, a bunch of screenplays, songs, short stories, and I have interned on the literary development side of the entertainment industry providing notes and coverage on projects that were in the works.

DP: While promoting Steven’s

War, you spoke a lot about heteronormativity and toxic masculinity. Why do you think these are still such troubling issues?

DR: I think we are still very

much in a transition phase, in regards to the development of our society. There are still a lot of folks out there who do not want to embrace different ideas or communities. There are a lot of people out there who prefer the “old fashion” ways of the world. I think we can make an argument that it is easier to live in 2021 than it was to live in 1991, and that it was easier to live in 1991 than it was to live in 1981, and so on. I think that things will only get easier and more accepting. Overall, it just comes down to more people being educated and exposed to the modern world. Doing their part to make it a better place.

DP: Can we expect a sequel to Steven’s War? DR: I have ideas, but it is not my focus at the moment.

To stay up-to-date, follow Russo on Twitter, Instagram, and LinkedIn, or visit his official website, DonovanRusso.com. Steven’s War is available on Amazon, BarnesandNoble.com, and all other book retail sites.

To read the full interview, visit OutClique.com

OutClique.com | 109

Pub Grub

By John Hayden

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Photos by Andy Armano | www.AndyArmano.com

resh seafood creations and a third generation recipe for classic comfort food. The menu at The Pub is pleasing all palates. The man with the creative culinary skills is Howard Fournier, better known to foodies as Chef Howie. He’s been making his mark up and down The Drive since arriving eight years ago, and now feels right at home inside The Pub’s increasingly busy kitchen.

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Chef Howie has had a love of cooking since he was a kid in upstate New York, and he learned from the best. “My grandmother was a chef.

As a kid I always cooked with her. She made everything.” And Howie is keeping her legacy alive in one of the restaurant’s most popular items. “I serve her mac and cheese here now.”

It’s such a hit that he has to make three big batches every week.

with carryout orders, and people are still ordering, which has led to an unforeseen circumstance. “I just can’t find the cooks to do it. I’m here seven days a week.” Much of the time it’s just Howie, his husband Bob, and three other cooks serving up breakfast lunch and dinner, seven days a week.

Besides long hours at The Pub, Howie also uses his skills to help the community. “I feed about 23 to 40 people a day out of donations and my own pocket.”

After cutting grandma’s apron strings, it was off to Johnson & Wales University in Rhode Island.

It was also around this time an encounter would change his entire life. Howie, then only 17-yearsold, met the love of his life, Bob. “He worked at a bank and my sister was the bank manager. We met and we just stayed in touch, and here we are 39 years later.” Their partnership would eventually add a professional angle in Massachusetts. “Me and my partner had a bar for 17 years, a gay bar and restaurant.” But Boston winters can take their toll. “We decided to give that up and move to Florida.”

Howie and Bob are also a part of LGBTQ history. “We were the second couple in the state of Massachusetts (the first state to recognize marriage equality) to get married. Everybody knew us because of the restaurant.” He laughed as he remembered the day, laughing as he says the whole thing caught them off guard. “The guy called us. They came to us so they could have a newspaper story.” Howie says their customers were as happy as they were. “Straight people that were customers were coming to the restaurant congratulating us. It was a historical day.” Once they said their “I dos” they went to work helping others finally take the leap. Howie and Bob are both ordained ministers so they presided over lots of couples formalizing their unions.

That was eight years ago. After working at a couple of spots on The Drive, in late 2018 Howie was lured to The Pub. “Michael (The Pub’s owner) was very persistent. He called, text, everything.” And that meant upgrading the menu to highlight his specialty. “My seafood.

I’m a seafood chef. That’s pretty much all I eat.

Everyday we have some type of seafood.” And there’s another tradition he carries on from his grandma’s kitchen from back in the day, “It’s all homemade, everything’s fresh. Fresh seafood.”

Shrimp scampi is his personal favorite, but he’s also proud of the burger that bears his name: Chef Howie’s Burger. It’s black angus beef with mushrooms, cheese, garlic, and bacon. Howie says if he eats one piece of meat a month, it’s a burger at The Pub. Once the pandemic hit, food sales skyrocketed

Howie’s thrilled his fans follow him wherever he goes. Old customers from up north follow him on his three Facebook pages and make a point to stop in when they come down on vacation. But despite his popularity, Chef Howie says he has no plans to start his own place. After running his place in Massachusetts for 17 years, Howie and Bob are happy cooking and letting others deal with the business side.

The Pub starts serving at 10am, including all-day breakfast. Pop in and try some of Chef Howie’s creations, and if he gets a chance and steps out of the kitchen for a minute, give him a wave, he may wave back. “My cooking keeps me going.

Chef Howie does care.”

OutClique.com | 111

Photo Courtesy of Peter Ringenberg

Acclaimed Pianist Alexander Toradze Joins Palm Beach Symphony for Season Finale

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enowned pianist Alexander Toradze joins Palm Beach Symphony for the 2021-22 season finale in a concert live streamed from the Kravis Center on Saturday, May 22, 2021, at 7:30PM.

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Toradze performs Ravel’s lighthearted and sparkling Piano Concerto in G Major with its nod to American jazz. In the second Palm Beach Symphony premiere of Ravel on the evening’s program, the Symphony performs Ma Mère

l’Oye, or the Mother Goose Suite, which like the fairy tales it celebrates, enchants listeners with a sense of wonder. Brahms’ first orchestral work, Serenade No. 1 in D Major, allows the Symphony to shine in a fitting culmination to a landmark season.

appointed as the Martin Endowed Professor of Piano at Indiana University in South Bend, where he has created the Toradze Piano Studio, a worldwide touring ensemble that has performed in the U.S., Italy, Germany, Portugal, and France.

A masterful virtuoso in the grand Romantic tradition, Toradze has enriched the Great Russian pianistic heritage with his own unorthodox interpretative conceptions, deeply poetic lyricism, and intensely emotional excitement. He has recorded all five Prokofiev concertos and Scriabin’s Prometheus: The Poem of Fire with Valery Gergiev and the Kirov Orchestra as well as recital albums of the works of Mussorgsky, Stravinsky, Ravel, and Prokofiev. Born in Tbilisi, Georgia, Toradze moved permanently to the United States and, in 1991, was

The concert will be performed before a limited invited audience at the Kravis in accordance with health and safety guidelines following CDC recommendations and guidance from local and state officials.

Photo Courtesy of IndieHouse Films

The concert also will be broadcast digitally in high-quality video and audio which can be viewed for an entire week following the concert on computers, tablets, smartphones, and TVs. Virtual passes are $30 and available at PalmBeachSymphony.org and by phone at (561) 281-0145.

About Palm Beach Symphony

Palm Beach Symphony is South Florida’s premier orchestra known for its diverse repertoire and commitment to community.

Founded in 1974, this 501(c)(3) nonprofit arts organization adheres to a mission of engaging, educating, and entertaining the greater community of the Palm Beaches through live performances of inspiring orchestral music. The orchestra is celebrated for delivering spirited performances by first-rate musicians and distinguished guest artists. Recognized by The Cultural Council for Palm Beach County with a 2020 Muse Award for Outstanding Community Engagement, Palm Beach Symphony continues to expand its education and community outreach programs with children’s concerts, student coaching sessions and master classes, instrument donations, and free public concerts that have reached more than 50,000 students in the past five years. For more information, visit PalmBeachSymphony.org. All dates, times, programs, artists and venues are subject to change without notice. Content and images courtesy of Pierson Grant PR, IndieHouse Films, and Peter Ringenberg.

OutClique.com | 113

Pride in Education

By John Hayden

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high school diploma is something most of us have and take for granted. A lack of a high school education is a real problem for much of South Florida’s LGBTQ+ community where the dropout rate is about 15% among LGBTQ+ and a staggering 20% in the trans population – nearly four times the national average.

Pride Fort Lauderdale is kick-starting the education process and helping people get their GED. Ashley and Morgan Mayfaire are cofounders of Trans Pride Fort Lauderdale and started developing the idea last year specifically targeting the trans community. The pandemic changed everything. “It was originally planned as an in-person tutoring program,” Ashley told OutClique, “but, the pandemic postponed our launch indefinitely.” The idea found new life and a new partner when Kevin Clevenger 114 | OutClique.com

became the new Executive Director at Pride Fort Lauderdale at the end of 2020. “He was passionate about creating programming that directly benefited our community and a GED program felt like the right fit. Pride’s Board and leadership team were also excited about the program, and have worked diligently to fund the program through car washes and other COVIDsafe fundraisers over the last few months.”

The dream grew beyond focusing on the trans community and serving all LGBTQ+ looking to advance their education.

Ashley says a culture of fear, and intimidation drives many LGBTQ+ students out of high school, putting them at a disadvantage that can affect them the rest of their lives. “Incredibly high rates of bullying and harassment, discriminatory school policies, lack of a family and/or community support network, and

disproportionate rates of school discipline and involvement in the juvenile and criminal justice system are all factors that cause these rates to be so high.” The obstacles to education only get bigger as they get older.

“Earning a GED as an adult learner also poses special challenges for LGBTQ+ students, including the cost associated with enrolling in a prep course, and the risk of other students holding anti-LGBTQ+ views. The same bullies that these LGBTQ+ people faced in school are sometimes the adult learners that they encounter in GED classes, and the same hostile learning environment is recreated for that student.”

With in-person tutoring still out of the question the program has gone online and that may end up benefiting even more students. “We also provided each student with a laptop equipped with the technology to participate in video calls, and run the online course materials. It has definitely helped us reach more people in both Broward County and Miami-Dade County, since they do not need to worry about finding transportation to attend in-person tutoring.”

The students are required to attend a two hour virtual tutoring session for several weekends,

complete an online prep course, and take all four parts of the GED exam. At the end, hopefully they have their GED and Pride Fort Lauderdale lets them keep the computer, helping them start this new chapter in life.

The first class started in February 2021 and Ashley says it’s a diverse group. “The inaugural class is a diverse mix of LGBTQ+ folks, with an age range from 19 to 55 years old. Our students are interested in earning their GED for a variety of reasons, including to help them access continuing education opportunities, have more earning potential in their employment, and to accomplish a goal that anti-LGBTQ+ discrimination prevented them from achieving in the past.”

One of the biggest obstacles to get people to sign up is the sense of shame they harbor around their lack of education. The program’s first goal is to remove that stigma. “We are so inspired by our first cohort of students that have committed to achieving their goals despite the barriers that life has put in their way. We should be celebrating their dedication and resilience, and we feel that our GED program does that through supporting and equipping our students with the tools they need to succeed.”

To learn more about Pride’s GED program, go to their website, www.PrideFortLauderdale.org/Resources, and fill out an application.

OutClique.com | 115

World AIDS Museum at The Galleria at Fort Lauderdale

Photos Courtesy of SRL Media 116 | OutClique.com

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More photos at www.Facebook.com/OutClique

Symphony of the Americas Appoints New Executive Director

Steven P. Haines

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Photos Courtesy of Symphony of the Americas

ymphony of the Americas is pleased to announce the appointment of Steven Haines as its new Executive Director.

He will be working closely with Music Director Pablo Mielgo, the board of directors, and the entire community to continue Symphony of the Americas’ impact on the region and to bring music back to the community.

Steven has nearly 30 years of performing arts management experience, having started his career in South Florida with the Boca Pops, Palm Beach Pops, and the Florida Philharmonic Orchestra. He held key roles with major arts organizations across the country – as President and CEO with Peter Nero and the Philly Pops, The Philadelphia Orchestra, Executive Director of San Francisco’s Stern Grove Festival, and most recently as CEO of Tucson Symphony Orchestra.

“Steven has worked with some of the leading organizations and artists in the classical and pops field across the country. He is an essential part of Symphony of the Americas’ new growth and direction,” says Pablo Mielgo.

“Steven brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to Symphony of the Americas and South Florida,” says Phillip Dunlap, Director of Broward County Cultural Division. “His past work leading cultural institutions in America’s major cultural destinations will be key as we reposition Broward County as a major arts destination.”

One of Haines’ first initiatives is to return Symphony of the Americas to live performances this spring at the Broward Center for the

Performing Arts BackLot performance space.

More information about these performances will be announced very soon, as well as a return to its concert season this fall.

“I am excited to return to South Florida where my career in the performing arts began. The opportunities for growth of Symphony of the Americas are extraordinary,” states Haines. “I look forward to working with Pablo, the musicians, board and staff, and the entire community.

We have a shared vision for expansion, new programs and initiatives, and I am thrilled to return to such a dynamic and diverse arts community. I look forward to reconnecting with the incredible arts and nonprofit community in the region.”

About Symphony of the Americas Symphony of the Americas is a Broward County Major Cultural Institution which performs at the Broward Center for the Performing Arts and throughout South Florida. Symphony of the Americas was founded in 1987 by Maestro James Brooks-Bruzzese. The Symphony grew into a leading orchestra showcasing guests from around the world, fostering cultural relations with the Americas, initiating musical exchanges throughout Europe, the US, and Central/South America. Content courtesy of Symphony of the Americas.

OutClique.com | 117

Key West Sensation Randy Roberts

By Denny Patterson

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rag queen and female impersonator Randy Roberts has been entertaining audiences for over 30 years. A staple within the Key West community, his signature show at the LaTeDa is a live, multimedia tribute to some of the world’s most beloved stars.

Roberts is known for doing uncanny celebrity impersonations, especially of Cher and Bette Midler, and closing every show with a minilounge act, which allows Roberts to get up close and personal with the audience.

In addition to drag, Roberts is an accomplished lyricist, writer, actor, and producer whose career has allowed him to travel across the world. Unfortunately, several changes had to be made thanks to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. OutClique caught up with Roberts to see how he is navigating through these unprecedented times.

Randy Roberts: Crazy days is an understatement! Key West shut down on March 17, 2020, and the strangest thing for me was that it kept extending. I figured a month, maybe two, but we were shut down for seven months!

I went back to live performing October 10, 2020. I did not mind staying home. I realized that I am lazy and I liked not working, but I just

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Photo Courtesy of Barry Fitzgerald

Denny Patterson: How have you been doing during these crazy days of COVID and quarantine?

have the little problem of needing to eat and pay bills - like everyone else. I did not mind the time by myself. I turned my guest room into a workout area, and worked out! I also sat on my a** and ate, but I did work out! I missed some of the social interaction, but it has made me realize that I do not have to interact with everyone.

DP: Were you finding ways to stay connected with fans while in lockdown?

and did a few livestream shows. People were so generous with those. They are still up on YouTube. You can see how they got progressively, technically better. The first one sort of fell apart, technically speaking.

Looking back, it is kind of funny - unless it happened to you! It was definitely a learning curve. Now, I have enough equipment to produce my own TV shows.

DP: Now that you are back to performing

live, what kind of safety procedures have been implemented?

Photo Courtesy of Bobby Miller

RR: I was more present on social media

we reopened the Crystal Room on October 10, 2020. We have hung a Plexiglass wall between the audience and me, so it feels like I am behind a sneeze guard at an all you can eat buffet. And I’m the buffet! Capacity has been cut to 50% with distanced tables, masks are required when you enter or stand up, and I do less interaction with the audience. When I leave the stage, I wear a face shield. It is definitely different.

To stay up-to-date with Randy Roberts, follow him on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and YouTube, or visit his official website, RandyRoberts.net. To read the full interview, visit OutClique.com.

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Photo Courtesy of Anabel Williams

RR: I am back onstage at the LaTeDa, and

John O’Connor

Thinking Outside The Box, About The Box

Dino Dana The Movie Stomps into MODS

Photo Courtesy of Kip Hunter Marketing

By Tony Adams

Photos by Tony Adams

The thoughtful exhibit at Art Gallery 21 may be a good side effect of the pandemic. Five South Florida architectural firms jumped at architectural historian John O’Connor’s invitation to imagine what might be built on the empty rough patch on the Drive in Wilton Manors adjacent to the police station/city hall.

The exhibit, like Brigadoon, has vanished, but O’Connor’s efforts have planted seeds that will help Wilton Manors continue to grow as an excellent place for living, working, and playing. This was made possible with the generous support of community leaders Joe Pallant, Tony LoGrande, and Chris Caputo.

The participating firms are Adache Group Architects, Field Agency Architects, Glavovic Studio, SOW Design, and STRANG Design.

Kids will discover the wonders of the Mesozoic era, as Dino Dana, star of Dino Dana The Movie, presented by Safari Ltd.®, and her friends roar into the Museum of Discovery and Science (MODS)! Guests can visit the new Dino Dana exhibit, see the coolest dino augmented reality (AR) experience, and catch Dino Dana The Movie on the GIANT screen as part of the MODS Discovery Pass. The film will be released on May 22, 2021, with an official red-carpet premiere.

The Dino Dana Calendar of Events Includes: May 22 Film Launch at MODS June 5 - 6 Dino Dana Field Pass Red Carpet Premiere – Ribbon Cutting of Exhibit, Special Showings of the Film and Dino Dana Colossal Fossil Educational Programming June 19 Museum Members-Only Morning Dino Dana The Movie, a 45-minute familyfriendly film, finds 10-year-old Dana, who sees dinosaurs in the real world, completing an experiment that asks where all the kid dinosaurs are. To find the answer, Dana, her older sister Saara, and their new neighbors Mateo, and Jadiel go on a dinosaur journey bigger than anything Dana has ever faced before.

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LIVE MUSIC, GREAT CONVERSATION, & ICE CREAM! KICKOFF PARTY! YOUNG MEN’S WELLNESS GROUP FOR GAY, BI, TRANS, & QUEER IDENTIFIED MEN Our new support group for individuals 18 to 26 years of age is designed to provide social and emotional support for the post-pandemic world.

delicious ice cream provided by

LIVE dj pup rockit spinning tunes

SAT, MAY 15TH, 1P-3P HAGEN PARK 2020 Wilton Drive - Wilton Manors FL Social Distancing & Masks Please

FREE RSVP (link in bio) SunServe.org/IceCream

EPIPHANY THEATRE PRESENTS

NUNSENSE AMEN! A Musical Comedy by Dan Goggins Directed by Ed Sparan

$20 GENERAL ADMISSION Elliot Hall 754-213-7125 2501 NE 30th St FTL, FL 33306 nunsenseamen.eventbrite.com epihanytheatreftl@gmail.com Epiphany Theatre follows CDC Covid 19 Guidelines. funding provided in part by the board of county commisioners of broward county as recommended by the broward cultural council