OutClique Magazine May 2024

Discover a beach playground unlike any other in Florida’s LGBT+ capital, from cosmopolitan wining and dining at rooftop bars to the revelry of Wilton Manors. As the world’s most progressive and inclusive destination, Greater Fort Lauderdale’s welcoming vibe is legendary. And we can’t wait to welcome you.

Apple Vision Pro arrives in Apple Store locations across the U.S.

Apple Vision Pro, a revolutionary spatial computer that transforms how people work, collaborate, connect, relive memories, and enjoy entertainment, has arrived in Apple Store locations across the United States. Apple team members celebrated with customers who were excited to explore the breakthrough product and participate in a new, guided demo experience, only available in Apple Store locations across the country. Customers can book an in-store demo, discover, and buy Apple Vision Pro at their local Apple Store, as well as on apple.com and the Apple Store app.

Apple Vision Pro seamlessly blends digital content with the physical world and unlocks powerful spatial experiences in visionOS, controlled by the most natural and intuitive inputs possible — a user’s eyes, hands, and voice. An all-new App Store provides users with access to more than 1 million compatible apps across iOS and iPadOS, as well as more than 600 new experiences that take advantage of the unique capabilities of Vision Pro.

Content and Photos Courtesy of Apple, Inc.

Steven O. Evans, PhD1 Publisher and Editor in Chief

Leadership Team

Connie Evans (Chief Copy Editor / Mother of the Publisher)

Sach Advertising Group (Senior Director of Graphic Design & Information Technology)

Will White (Senior Associate Editor)

Chandler Scott (Director of Social Media & Assistant to Dr. Evans)

Jan Mitchell (Director of Public Relations / Jan Mitchell PR)

Writers

John M. Hayden (Senior South Florida News Journalist)

Denny Patterson (Senior Lifestyle Writer & Assistant Editor)

Megan Fitzgerald, PhD (Senior Writer, Associate Professor, Nova Southeastern University,. Halmos College of Arts and Sciences)

Rod Davis (Senior Writer; CEO, Better Business Bureau®)

Charles Baran (Art, Music & Theater/ Brand Ambassador)

Eric Swanson (Miss Bouvee)

Jessica Graves (Yacht TV)

Brickey Lane

Tony Adams

Tony Lima (CEO, SunServe)

Cinthya Lavin (VP of Communications & Community, Engagement, Better Business Bureau®)

Savannah Whaley (Executive Vice President, Pierson Grant)

Diana Hanford (Senior Vice President, Pierson Grant)

Stephen Fallon, PhD (CEO, Latinos Salud)

John Marler (SunServe, Director of Communications; Social Sciences Writer)

Daniel Morales (Self-Esteem & Love Coach)

Brand Ambassadors

Jorge Perez

Charles Baran

Tim Bowman

Arnie Cuarenta

Distribution

Jason Eakin (Director)

Nick Coltharp (Assistant Director)

Photography

Stephen Lang (Director / Editorial Consultant)

Jason Sapp (Brand Ambassador)

Keans LLamer

PR Company Affiliates

Goodman PR

Kip Hunter Marketing

Pierson Grant PR

Welcome to Aqua

Blue Daisy Media

Kay Renz Public Relations

M Network

Gary Schweikhart, PR-BS

Legal Oversight Provided by Trantalis & Associates

Accounting & Finance

Doug Turner (Best Books and Taxes)

Spiritual Counsel & Wellness Advisors

Rev. Dr. Robert Griffin (SunShine Cathedral)

Rev. Dr. Durrell Watkins (SunShine Cathedral)

Rev. Dr. Anne R. Atwell (SunShine Cathedral)

Rev. Jill Auman (First United Methodist Church, Fort Lauderdale)

Advisory & Consultation to Dr. Evans

Lois Margaret Nora, JD, MD, MBA

Rivendell Media

National Advertising

1 McEldowney Jensen, PhD.,J. Director of Graduate Studies, Educational Policy Studies & Education. University of Kentucky, College of Education. (Doctoral supervisor) Dissertation title: Pediatrics education in an AHEC setting: Preparing students to provide patient centered medicine. A research study of ways that medical students learn patient centered medicine through their rotations in AHEC clinical settings.

2301WiltonDrive,SuiteC1-A,WiltonManors,FL33305

AttorneyatLaw 954.566.2226

Dean@trantalis.com|TrantalisLaw.com

Thehiringofalawyerisanimportantdecisionthatshouldnotonlybebasedonadvertisements.Before youdecideaskthelawyertosendyoufreewritteninformationabouttheirqualificationsandexperience.

Vacation or Staycation?

Dear Readers

This year is flying by. It’s hard to believe that May is already here!

It’s the time of year when I start thinking about summer vacation or maybe this year, it will be a staycation for some of us.

As I flip through this month’s magazine, there are many options. A visit to Key West might be nice. There is Island House, the award-winning gay resort. New Orleans House, the only gay men’s guesthouse on Duval Street, and I could see a show at Bourbon Street Pub. Perhaps I’ll go on a European adventure with the luxury LGBTQ+ travel and cruise planners at Source Journeys. Maybe I’ll hop on a plane with friends for a one night getaway, at Atlantis Paradise Island in the Bahamas to see Christina Aguilera.

Visit Florida has articles in the May issue that will guide you to some of the best travel destinations statewide.

There are plenty of activities right here in South Florida from May-June, and so a staycation may be the answer. There is the Pride Center’s Equality Park After Dark, FlockFest SPLASH Pool Party Memorial Weekend, comedian Kathy Griffin at Parker Playhouse, The Mizz Out South Florida Pageant at Sunshine Cathedral, Take Pride Opening Reception at Galleria, and Gay Days Orlando.

Let’s not forget that Sunday, May 12 is Mother’s Day. I’d like to show my appreciation to my Mom, Connie, for editing every article in OutClique Magazine.

We hope you enjoy our May issue, and whether you're lounging on a sandy beach, exploring bustling city streets, or immersing yourself in the tranquility of nature, may your vacation be filled with joy, laughter, and moments of serenity.

Warm regards,

Dr. Steven 1 Publisher and Editor in Chief OutClique Magazine

Wilton Manors Mayor Scott Newton

The only thing constant is change. And, if you’re in Wilton Manors, Scott Newton. He’s spent his life in the city and seen lots of change. The city has grown from a Broward County backwater to a booming LGBTQIA+ mecca. Now another growth spurt is on the horizon and Newton wants to see it get off on the right foot.

“Everything I’ve been working towards for years should be in place in our city. That’s making sure growth is happening, the stability of our infrastructure and our sea level rise,” he told OutClique

To do that, he is running for reelection this November. “I want to see in the next two-and-a-half years that we get all the codes to make sure we’re a viable city in Broward.”

With three major projects on the verge of breaking ground, Wilton Manors’ capacity for visitors and residents is about to skyrocket. Aside from a brief stint in college, Newton is a Wilton Manors lifer. He’s owned Quality Interiors for more than 25 years and has served the city in some capacity since 1990 when he was appointed to the Board of Adjustments.

“I still have the energy and the heart and soul of the community. I believe this community enjoys what I’m trying to do and the direction we are going in.” You’ve likely seen Newton out and not even noticed, but he’s there. “I’m a grounds kinda guy. I’ll go out and pick up garbage, help people change a flat in the city. I’m a hands-on kinda person.”

One thing he wants to see is the city to become affordable once again. “My daughter’s a teacher, and there’s no way she could afford to buy in Wilton Manors.”

Newton appreciates that people move here and retire, but he also wants a vibrant population that not only

works in the city, but lives there, too. “We really need to put in workforce housing. I mean people that work for a living that work at our small businesses like Storks, Alibi, and The Pub. If they have to travel four or five miles then they need a car, then insurance, then parking. It’d be nice if they could actually enjoy living in their own community.”

Keeping the city’s hometown vibe while also encouraging growth and development is a delicate balancing act. Many see Fort Lauderdale’s building boom and worry it will cross the river into Wilton. Newton is not worried. “Let Fort Lauderdale keep their forty and sixty storey buildings. I want to keep the hometown feel in Wilton Manors. Getting above six to eight stories you start to lose that.”

City code caps buildings at eight stories, which would still be smaller than the city’s tallest structure, Wilton Tower behind the Dairy Queen.

While Newton’s not going anywhere, he says this is his last campaign. “I will be seventy years old in two years, and I’m gonna let the younger guns come in.”

Author: John Hayden | Photo Courtesy: Wilton Manors

The New 2025 BMW Z4 M40i 6-Speed Manual

● For the first time ever, the BMW Z4 M40i is available with a 6-speed manual transmission.

● Package also includes unique suspension tuning, wheels, paint colors, and interior trims.

● The 382-hp “Handschalter” accelerates from 0-60 in only 4.2 seconds.

Fans of driving pleasure in its purest form can look forward to a new arrival from BMW crafted especially for them: the 2025 BMW Z4 M40i is available for the very first time with a 6-speed manual gearbox. The pairing of the manual

gearbox with the 382-hp TwinPower Turbo inline 6-cylinder engine forms the heart of an enticing equipment package that emphasizes the two-seater’s focus on delivering an exhilarating open-top driving experience.

The 2025 BMW Z4 M40i “Handschalter” (German for “hand shift” and the internal working name of the project used by the small team that brought the vehicle to life) brings a retuned chassis and mixed-size M light-alloy wheels measuring 19 inches at the front axle and 20 inches at the rear. Special design features for both the exterior and interior are also part of the package.

Content and Photo Courtesy of BMW

Apple Fitness+ Offers

More Ways Than Ever to Stay Active and Mindful

Apple Fitness+ has introduced new ways for users to stay active and mindful. Earlier this year, the service introduced a brand-new sound meditation theme, as well as a new workout program titled Strength, Core, and Yoga for Golfers. The Artist Spotlight series launched new workouts and Time to Walk introduces new guests. For the first time ever, select Time to Walk episodes will be available on Apple Podcasts for anyone to enjoy, even without a Fitness+ subscription.

Sound Meditations for Relaxation

Fitness+ offers 10 meditation themes, including Calm, Gratitude, Resilience, and Creativity. Fitness+ is introducing a brand-new meditation theme called Sound, offering users a new way to feel relaxed and restored. Each meditation provides light guidance from a Fitness+ trainer while allowing ample space for users to be present, with a variety of soothing tones and rhythms.

Strength, Core, and Yoga for Golfers

Building strength, stability, and mobility is important for golfers of all levels to help them swing with ease and drive the ball with power. Fitness+ introduces a new workout program, Strength, Core, and Yoga for Golfers, featuring and designed with professional golfer Rose Zhang and led by Fitness+ Strength and Core trainer Kyle Ardill. Inspired by Zhang’s training on and off the course, this program features a mix of four workouts across Strength, Core, and Yoga, designed to improve strength, balance, flexibility, and mobility.

Turn Up the Volume

Music is an essential element of every Fitness+ workout, motivating users from start to finish with today’s top artists, including a deep integration with Apple Music.

The Artist Spotlight series - which dedicates an entire workout playlist to a single artist - launched its biggest series yet to celebrate the countdown to the Apple Music Super Bowl LVIII Halftime Show featuring USHER.

Time to Walk

Time to Walk, an award-winning audio experience on iPhone and Apple Watch designed to help people walk more often, features some of the world’s most interesting and influential people sharing stories, photos, and music. New episodes of Time to Walk will begin with Al Roker. Upcoming guests include Trixie Mattel, Lilly Singh, Common, and Colman Domingo.

Additionally, select Time to Walk episodes are available for listeners on Apple Podcasts. Fitness+ subscribers can access 50 episodes at launch on Apple Podcasts with the guest’s audio, as well as follow the show for free, automatically download it for offline listening, and be notified of new episodes. Users can continue to access photos and songs chosen by the guest through the experience on Fitness+. Anyone without a Fitness+ subscription can still access 10 free audio episodes on Apple Podcasts.

Content and Photos Courtesy of Apple, Inc.

The Choice Is Yours Boss Unveils Spring/Summer 2024 Campaign

The empowering #BeYourOwnBOSS campaign champions a self-determined life, driven by confidence, style, and a forward-looking vision. This season, self-determination takes center stage underscoring that the choice is yours – the power to be your own Boss lies within.

Content Courtesy of Hugo Boss | Photo Credit: Lee Minho / Courtesy of Hugo Boss

Announces Christina Aguilera

to Headline “Music Making Waves” Concert

Atlantis Paradise Island, the world’s most remarkable destination resort and the Caribbean’s leader in producing concerts, festivals and entertainment, announces seventime GRAMMY® Award-winning singer-songwriter Christina Aguilera to perform at the resort’s Casuarina Beach on Saturday, July 13th. The chart-topping artist, known for her powerful voice, will delight concert goers with a setlist of her hit songs and beloved classics such as “Beautiful,” “Fighter,” “Dirrty,” and more. Guests will also have access to a variety of food trucks featuring Bahamian chefs, local cuisine and fresh seafood, interactive activities and pop-up experiences, ensuring a night of unforgettable moments.

The concert is an exciting continuation of the popular Music Making Waves series, part of the renowned “Atlantis: LIVE” platform, that kicked off in April with a performance by global icon Janet Jackson. Atlantis consistently offers toptier entertainment, bringing a global array of excitement to both visitors and residents. Since its inception 25 years ago, Atlantis has hosted a variety of global sensations such as Bruno Mars, Carrie Underwood, Doja Cat, Justin Bieber, Kesha, Lady Gaga, Lizzo, Pit Bull, Ricky Martin, The Jonas Brothers, and Taylor Swift.

"Atlantis Paradise Island is the premier entertainment destination in the Caribbean, offering live performances and unparalleled experiences for travelers and the community. We look forward to welcoming Christina Aguilera and her fans this July for a memorable concert in paradise,” said Audrey Oswell, President and Managing Director of Atlantis Paradise Island.

2024

Atlantis Paradise Island | www.AtlantisLive.com

Content Courtesy of Chanelle Porter, Eleven Six PR

Photo Courtesy of Dennis Leupold July 13th,

United in Pride

Visit Lauderdale Collaborates with Top LGBT+ Tourist Destination in Unique Marketing Campaign

Visit Lauderdale, the official destination marketing organization for Greater Fort Lauderdale, will participate in a unique partnership to reach over a million LGBT+ visitors in Provincetown, Massachusetts.

Thanks to an innovative year-long, multi-pronged campaign, Greater Fort Lauderdale will be top of mind for Provincetown residents and visitors until October 2024. Provincetown attracts over one million annual visitors from the northeast and across the globe. It is one of the largest LGBT+ communities in the country. “As part of the partnership, which started in December 2023, the Provincetown Business Guild (PBG) has welcomed Visit Lauderdale to brand, co-host, and sponsor some of its key LGBT+ events, including Pride, Bear Week and Carnival,” said Stacy Ritter, President & CEO of Visit Lauderdale.

“I am beyond thrilled that our Visit Lauderdale team continues to think outside of the box to promote Greater Fort Lauderdale. Provincetown is a thriving place for the LGBT+ community and its allies. We are dedicated to being a destination where ALL people are welcomed, regardless of gender, gender expression, race, religion, or disability,” said Richard Gray, Senior Vice President of Inclusion & Accessibility at Visit Lauderdale.

This exclusive collaboration allows Visit Lauderdale to reach LGBT+ travelers who resonate with Visit Lauderdale’s “Everyone Under the Sun” campaign. Visit Lauderdale’s partnership with the PBG, a non-profit

committed to the economic and cultural development of LGBT+ tourism for Provincetown, was created to amplify Greater Fort Lauderdale’s message of inclusion and diversity.

“Celebrating one of our nation’s most historic and diverse LGBTQ+ ‘sister cities’ is a natural fit for Provincetown,” said Trevor Pittinger, the Executive Director of the PBG. “Our events continue to grow, diversify, and attract visitors from across the United States and around the world. As the only dedicated queer resource promoting travel to Provincetown, our events, guides, online directories, and social media channels offer a truly unique environment to engage with LGBTQ+ consumers.”

The new integrated marketing campaign will include digital advertising, social media promotion, and in-person event activations, which will take place throughout key annual events:

● Provincetown’s 7th annual Pride (May 31, 2024, to June 2, 2024)

● Bear Week (July 13, 2024, to July 20, 2024)

● The 46th annual Provincetown Carnival (August 17, 2024, to August 24, 2024)

For more information on Provincetown’s upcoming annual events, visit Ptown.org. To learn about Visit Lauderdale’s inclusion and accessibility initiatives, visit VisitLauderdale.com.

Content Courtesy of Diana Hanford, Pierson Grant PR | Photos Courtesy of Provincetown Pride

Embark on an Adventure Through Greater Fort Lauderdale’s Colorful LGBT+ Celebrations!

Set against a backdrop of sun-kissed beaches, bustling city vibes, and the captivating Everglades, Greater Fort Lauderdale shines as a symbol of unity and diversity. Renowned as the LGBT+ capital of Florida, its 31 diverse neighborhoods offer a range of experiences, inviting travelers to immerse themselves in dynamic entertainment, electrifying nightlife, and unforgettable festivities. From chic rooftop bars to pulsating street festivals, Greater Fort Lauderdale beckons travelers from all walks of life to explore its vibrant LGBT+ scene and create lasting memories in a community that celebrates love and pride.

Embrace Equality: Join the Stonewall Street Festival

Commemorate the historic Stonewall Riots and celebrate the progress of the LGBT+ rights movement at the Stonewall Street Pride and Street Festival on June 15. Celebrated on the bustling streets of Wilton Manors, this colorful extravaganza brings together people from all walks of life for a day of music, art, and activism. From thought-provoking exhibits to lively performances, the

Stonewall Street Festival is a powerful reminder of the importance of standing up for your beliefs and fi ghting for a world where everyone is free to love and be loved. And for the grand finale, the Stonewall Pride Parade and Floatarama party bring the weekend to a close with an extra layer of extravagance.

Experience FlockFest: Fort Lauderdale’s Premier Beach Bash Returns in 2024

Embark on a journey of festivity and delight at FlockFest, an eagerly anticipated annual event gracing the shores of Fort Lauderdale Beach July 4-7. With over 500 vibrant floats adorning the coastline, this beach bash promises an unparalleled experience of fun and excitement. From spirited beach games to captivating performances, FlockFest captivates attendees with its dynamic energy and infectious enthusiasm. Featuring renowned International DJ Deanne spinning the latest hits, the festival invites guests to dance the day away beneath the warm Florida sun.

Since its inception, FlockFest has evolved into a grand celebration, drawing thousands of enthusiastic participants. Moreover, the event proudly supports local non-profit organizations through the generous contributions of corporate sponsors, exemplifying its commitment to giving back to the community.

Immerse Yourself in Cinematic Splendor at the OUTshine Film Festival

Prepare to be transported into a world of cinematic brilliance at the OUTshine Film Festival, where the magic of storytelling around the LGBT+ experience takes center stage. Taking place October 19 to 29, this annual event beckons film enthusiasts to immerse themselves in a captivating tapestry of narratives, documentaries, and cinematic masterpieces. A testament to the

enduring power of storytelling, the festival unites cinephiles in a celebration of creativity and imagination. From captivating premieres to intimate discussions with filmmakers and actors, the OUTshine Film Festival offers an unparalleled opportunity to engage with the art of cinema in all its glory.

Prepare to Be Wowed!

Make sure to mark your calendars and join us for these unforgettable events. Dive into Greater Fort Lauderdale’s rich array of activities, inclusive accommodations, and dynamic lineup of happenings that embody the essence of our community at VisitLauderdale.com/lgbt and stay updated by following us on @VisitLauderdale.

New Fort Lauderdale Police Chief Looking Out for Community

To Protect & Serve. It’s a motto many police departments say, but often falls short. The LGBTQIA+ community has had, at best, a spotty relationship with law enforcement. Now Fort Lauderdale has a chief that is protecting and serving the entire community.

Bill Schultz is a longtime member of the FLPD and ascended to Chief in November. Now, four months into his tenure, Chief Schultz is looking at quick accomplishments and the mountain of work left to do.

The openly gay chief has long been a proponent of the LGBTQIA+ community, but not to the exclusion of other communities. When he first took the job, he talked of making sure all groups are not only represented, but heard. He talked of bringing officers from the Black community, the Hispanic community, and the LGBTQIA+ community to the forefront of the department. Each has its own organization and is thriving.

“All three groups are fully functional and active,” he told OutClique. “We were all present at the Sistrunk Festival and I recently hosted an LGBTQ talkback session at Bubbles & Pearls.”

While not the first gay man to lead the department, he is the first LGBTQIA+ leader with his wide range of experience and training. He has 23 years of experience in law enforcement and is a graduate of the FBI National Academy and the Police Executive Research Forum’s Senior Management Institute for Police.

Recognizing crimes as hate crimes is a special skill. While, yes, it is easy for officers to willfully ignore the signs, it is more common that officers aren’t even trained to spot them. Schultz is at work to change that. “We are going to start sending officers with specific hate crimes training to the scenes of reported hate crime so that we document it correctly. We also want to get the victim services immediately to deal with the trauma they just went through.”

Schultz believes inclusivity is an important part of his mission. Often, citizens feel more policed than served. He wants a force that reflects the community they protect.

“I have a group that’s going to be my advisory group on those matters from here on out.”

Even out of uniform, Schultz is an outstanding and bright representative of the LGBTQIA+ community. Last summer he held a series of birthday parties. While they technically celebrated his special day, the events were really celebrations of the community.

“It’s very important. It needs to be known that certain officials in government, either elected or appointed, have very strong connections in different ways. I make a point of making my presence known at (non-official) events.”

Recently, he organized a concert at Sunshine Cathedral for the Performing Arts featuring legendary cabaret artist Anne Steele. She was one of the entertainers at his birthday celebrations and he considers her a friend. “I know how absolutely committed she is to our community in New York, so I wanted to bring her down here.”

Schultz knows that it’s one thing to build trust with a community, and another to keep it. He says the first step will take a long time, and the second must be a fresh effort every day.

Chief Bill Schultz loves his community and earned his spot as leader of the FLPD force and in the community. He pledges to make sure every member of the community and every letter in the acronym is seen, heard, and represented. While FLPD has seen a lot of turnover at the top, homegrown Schultz is in it for the long haul, good times and bad.

Author: John Hayden | Photo Courtesy of Fort Lauderdale Police Department

DECO X MIA Celebrates the LGBTQ+ Community With Launch of Miami Beach Pride Lifeguard Tower Ornament

DECO X MIA is inviting customers to add a little Miami magic to their homes with the launch of its’ new, limited edition, hand painted glass ornaments inspired by the rainbow colored Miami Beach Pride lifeguard tower.

Miami Beach's vibrant and unique lifeguard towers are iconic and recognizable worldwide. With their unique shapes and designs and their candy-coated hues, the towers are a true representation of Miami's splashy and vibrant culture and community. Made of glass and hand painted, DECO X MIA’s heirloom quality ornaments are created in Poland (where glass ornament making started) and come in a numbered gift box with an image of the original Pride lifeguard tower.

“We are inspired by Miami and want to share the love we have for our city with the rest of the country,” said Louise Finlay, founder of DECO X MIA. “Our limited edition Pride ornaments epitomize the vibrancy and sparkle of Miami and are the perfect gift for everyone in, and in support of the LGBTQ+ community.”

Retailing at $55, 10% of the sale of each DECO X MIA Pride Ornament will be donated to Miami Beach Pride, a 501 (c)(3) non-profit organization whose key mission is to raise funds for events and community outreach programs that support the LGBTQ+ community of South Florida.

The limited edition Pride Lifeguard Tower Ornaments, along with the rest of the DECO X MIA Lifeguard Tower ornament collection and other unique, Miami-inspired home decor and gifts, are available to shop online at decoxmia.com.

About DECO X MIA

DECO X MIA takes its inspiration from Miami -- the beaches, the culture, the people, and most importantly, the city's unique sense of style and design. The small business’s mission is to bring a bit of that Miami magic into everyone's home, with unique home decor and limited edition gifts that reflect Miami's most iconic designs and landmarks. Learn more at decoxmia.com.

Content Courtesy of Todd Evans, Rivendell Media | Photo Courtesy of Louise Finlay, Founder of DECO X MIA

Unforgettable Dreamscapes

Essence of Burgundy & Provence

River Cruise | June 4-11, 2024

Treasures of Venice & the Dalmatian Coast Cruise | August 17-24, 2024

Luxury Galapagos Cruise

September 28 – October 6, 2024

Mystical & Modern Japan

October 23 – November 2, 2024

NEW JOURNEYS FOR 2025!

Colors of India & The Holi Festival

March 8-19, 2025

The Mystical Wonders of Bhutan

March 19-25, 2025

All-Gay Royal Clipper Cruise

All-Gay French River Cruise

Photos Courtesy

Big Dream No Manors

It’s been six months since the unconventional opening of No Manors: Bar and Lounge. With little to no press for such a major event and boldly making an unlikely home nestled between two of Wilton Manors’ legendary LGBTQ establishments, No Manors has become a darling of The Drive. Owner and operator Steven Bialos is as busy as they come these days with several projects in the works. We were lucky enough to get Steven to chat with us about this unique strip mall speakeasy and give insight into what No Manors is all about and what we can expect in the next six months. Even as he was ending one meeting, his general manager, Jared Lewis, pulled him aside regarding decisions of the design and transformation of No Manors’ patio space that will celebrate its opening on Cinco De Mayo (Sunday, May 5, 2024).

OutClique: Congratulations on No Manors' successful 6 months! It’s been a whirlwind, I’m sure. The Cinco de Mayo party to celebrate the new outdoor patio space sounds fabulous.

Steven Bialos: Never a dull moment. Yes, it should be! We are working with vendors for drinks, a mariachi band, and street style food. It’s going to be a fun, festive Cinco de Mayo.

OutClique: I have to say that I love this room! (We were seated in the more private bar in the back lined with vibrant yellow built-in banquets, a lush flamingo wallpaper print, and light fixtures that would make The Golden Girls jealous) Aesthetically, the space is so unique in its design and unlike anything else on The Drive. What was your inspiration for No Manors?

Steven Bialos: We wanted you to feel transported out of Wilton Manors the moment you walk in the door to some other place completely. No Manors is a place that people haven't seen or experienced here before. I wanted a moment of complete surprise when you entered the bar for the very first time. As far as the aesthetic is concerned, I knew it had to feel contemporary and modern and at the same time feel nostalgic. Honestly, I am still transported every time I walk in the door.

OutClique: I must ask, and I’m sure it gets old, but why did you choose the name "No Manors" for your bar? And why launch it now?

Steven Bialos: We love a good pun too, and no, No Manors doesn’t mean no manners . No Manors means no rules, a chance to do everything differently. I wanted it to be sexy and fun and welcoming and elevated. It was important to create a space where you check the attitude at the door and just have fun. The timing all just fell into place. I saw the need for a lounge-like space, found the old bank, and it took off from there.

OutClique: I understand you’re from the New York/ New Jersey area and you’re an investor of a highly successful, gay mainstay bar in Hell’s Kitchen but also have a background in the jewelry business. Did you feel up to the challenge of owning your own bar? Do you feel the pressure to deliver?

Steven Bialos: Yes and no. I hoped that this would work, and look, we are still growing and changing and adapting. We value feedback from our patrons because at the end of the day we want to make sure we give the community something that they want while still remaining true to No Manors’ spirit.

OutClique: How did your past experiences in NY help shape and influence some of your core values and guide you in this endeavor?

Steven Bialos: I spent most of my 20s, 30s, and part of my 40s in NYC and I was greatly influenced by my time with friends in various bars, clubs, and lounges

there. They showed me things I never dreamed of, and they were always lavish and exciting. You never knew who you were sitting next to, it could have been a CEO of a fortune 500 or a hustler, it didn’t matter. We were all there for the same thing: fun.

OutClique: What sets No Manors apart from other establishments in Wilton Manors?

Steven Bialos: For one thing, the space is unlike anything on The Drive. Our lounge is the largest on The Drive where people can come in and sit with their friends, whether it is a cozy duo or group of ten. They can have a conversation and actually hear one another, sip a well crafted cocktail, and be entertained by our extremely gifted performers.

OutClique: Just using one or two phrases, what would you say to someone who hasn't been to No Manors before?

Steven Bialos: When you’re here we see you, we hear you, we value you, and we celebrate you - Just expect the unexpected and have a great time.

OutClique: We've heard about the burlesque and various performers . . . shall we say, inspired acts at No Manors. What inspired this unique entertainment choice and how has it been received by guests?

Steven Bialos: I loved the idea of having entertainment that really harkened back to a time when live performances were in demand but doing it with a twist. The entertainers are beautiful, and their costumes are intricate and lavish. It's sometimes sexy, sometimes absurd, sometimes both, and the act is between. It leaves some here speechless and coming back for more. There is something for everyone.

OutClique: We hear great things about the music here on the weekends. What are you doing differently?

Steven Bialos: We have a solid crew in DJ JB Burgos, Trevor Oldroyd, and Citizen Jane - they read the crowd, and play the anthems and big hits of the moment and disco but package them in a way that

makes it feel fresh, light, and fun. You won’t hear their remixes elsewhere.

OutClique: How does No Manors contribute to, or support, the local LGBTQ+ community?

Steven Bialos: Just last week our good friend and trans icon, Candis Cayne alongside creative partner, Danna Davis, stopped in to premiere “Diaper Doll”, a hilarious short film bringing awareness to major issues facing the trans community. And coming up next month we are partnering with Equality Florida, the organization on the front lines of the “Don’t Say Gay” laws in an attempt to involve younger members of our community and get them involved with local politics.

OutClique: One last thing, can you tell us more about the new in-house burlesque company, House of No Manors , and No Manors debut show "Etiquette"?

Steven Bialos: Our entertainment director, Joshua Kenney, has pushed for us to produce our own show and he has done a wonderful job. Joshua has been working with our resident stars, Damien Lenore and Phoenix Lenore, to create a show that will not only leave you completely wowed but also make sure that

we don't rest on our laurels, ensuring the show will always feel fresh which as an audience member is thrilling. There isn't a show like this in Fort Lauderdale. It’s going to show you what burlesque was, what it is now, and where it will go. We want to push the envelope of what's possible in our space and leave people with an experience they will want to come back to again and again, whether it’s with a date or friends visiting from out of town. I don't want to spoil any details.

The show is called Etiquette: A Proper Education in the Art of the Tease. Right now, we are previewing Sundays at 7:30PM with an opening night planned for Sunday June 9, 2024, at 7:30PM. For now, its first come first serve but it will be reserved seating in the coming weeks.

OutClique: Steven, thank you so much for carving out some time for us! Where can readers go to find more information about No Manors and all the upcoming events?

Steven Bialos: No, thank you! Follow us on Instagram @nomanorsbar or you can go to www.NoManorsBar.com for our Facebook link.

Author: OutClique Staff Writer | Photos Courtesy of Joshua Kenney, No Manors

Following their remake of the *NSYNC favorite “Tearin’ Up My Heart,” pop singer Joey Diamond and producer Jace M are once again bringing pre-millennial beats back to dancefloors - this time with the help of Toy Armadawith their re-imagining of Jennifer Lopez’s “Waiting for Tonight.” Joey remembers listening to the original song as a kid. “It was inspiring to see a Latina dominating an era primarily inhabited by male vocalists,” he says.

Joey Diamond and producers Jace M and Toy Armada take “Waiting for Tonight” in a frenetic new direction, infusing lots of drums and full synths. “Joey’s range of vocals is stunning and the passion he exudes in the song is intoxicating,” says Jace M.

“I love remaking the nineties tracks that were so influential to me growing up,” says Joey. “The songs are

a huge inspiration for my original music as my goal, with both the covers and my original tracks, is to see people vibing, dancing, and having the time of their lives on the dance floor.”

The radio edit and extended mix of Joey Diamond, Jace M, and Toy Armada’s “Waiting for Tonight” are being distributed by Queen House Music and are available on Apple Music, Spotify, and all other digital platforms.

Joey Diamond released his first single, “Simple Things,” in 2014. Shortly after, he dropped an album and embarked on his first music tour, releasing additional singles along the way. With the success of the tour, he was invited to join a boy band, but it would be a short-lived project. Now a solo artist, Joey Diamond lives in Miami with his partner and their dog.

Photo Courtesy of Joey Diamond

Pink Nail Society

Photos Courtesy of Jason Sapp

Photos Courtesy of

Photos Courtesy of

Pleasure in Every Pump

BETTER ROOFERS ATTORNEYS PLUMBERS AND MORE BUREAU

BBB® Accredited Businesses are committed to operating with integrity, honoring promises, and telling the truth. Always look for the BBB Accredited Business Seal, it’s The Sign of a Better BusinessSM . THINK

Avoiding Tech Scams

A tech support rep calls and offers to fix a computer bug you haven't even noticed, or a pop-up warning appears on the screen, instructing you to dial a number for help. In this con, scammers pose as tech support employees of well-known computer companies and hassle victims into paying for their "support."

How the scam works:

A call comes through on the Caller ID, or you get a popup on the computer screen from someone claiming to be with tech support from a well-known software company. Microsoft, Comcast, Norton and Dell are all popular choices. The caller creates a sense of urgency—the computer is sending error messages, they've detected a virus, or your computer is about to crash, causing massive data loss!

Rest assured. The tech support employee can fix the problem, but only if they're allowed to remote access the troubled machine. Once access is granted, the caller will often run a "scan" and claim the computer is infected with viruses. The caller offers to fix and repair the machine for a fee. That may not be the end of the scam. If you allow remote access, the scammer may install malware on your device. Malware often scans files for personal information, which scammers then use to commit identity theft.

Scammers may also lure people to find them by putting fake tech support numbers online.

Tips to spot this scam:

● Never give control of your computer to a third party unless you are absolutely sure it is the representative of a computer support team with whom you initiated contact.

● Legitimate tech support companies don't make unsolicited phone calls. A popular way for thieves to get in touch with victims is through cold calls. The callers often claim to be from a tech company. Scammers can spoof official-looking phone numbers, so don't trust Caller ID.

● Look out for warning screens: Nearly half of tech support scams begin with an alert on the victim's computer screen. This pop-up will have a phone number to call for help. Instead, disconnect from the internet and Wi-Fi by shutting off the device. Restart it and run an antivirus scan.

● Be wary of sponsored links. When searching online for tech support, look out for sponsored ads at the top of the results list. Many of these links lead to businesses that scam consumers.

● Avoid clicking on links in unfamiliar emails. Scammers also use email to reach victims. These messages point consumers to scam websites that launch pop-ups with fake warnings and phone numbers.

If you are a victim of a tech support scam:

● Contact the bank immediately to report the incident and describe exactly what happened.

● Take the infected laptop, tablet, mobile device, or computer to a trusted local business (visit BBB.org) and have it checked out.

● Remove any software that authorized remote access to the device.

● Change all passwords used to access bank accounts, social media and other websites that contain personal information.

● File a report with BBB Scam Tracker and with law enforcement authorities, such as the Federal Trade Commission.

Broward House Dining Out For Life 2024

Photos Courtesy of

Revolutionizing WEIGHT LOSS: Semaglutide vs. Tirzepatide

Dr. Ferdinand Cabrera at Genesis Health Institute understands that the journey to weight loss is unique for each individual. That’s why he has customized plans with both groundbreaking weight loss treatments: Semaglutide and Tirzepatide. These medications are at the forefront of medical weight management, offering Genesis patients effective, science-backed solutions to achieve their health goals.

Let’s Get Geeky!

Semaglutide, commercially known as Wegovy, has garnered acclaim for its remarkable efficacy in reducing appetite and promoting significant weight loss. By mimicking the GLP-1 hormone, it enhances insulin secretion and decreases hunger, facilitating a sustainable path to a healthier weight.

Tirzepatide, marketed as Mounjaro, represents the latest innovation with its dual-action approach. Not only does

it simulate the effects of GLP-1, but it also activates GIP receptors, offering a comprehensive attack on weightrelated issues. This dual mechanism not only aids in superior weight loss but also improves overall metabolic health. In clinical studies, Tirzepatide has shown to be even more effective than Semaglutide, promising a brighter future for those struggling with obesity.

That’s it?

Semaglutide and Tirzepatide work best when prescribed along peptides, which can help you gain muscle while losing weight. Our patients have experienced transformative results, losing weight and gaining a new lease on life with the support of this combined therapy.

Which Way to Go?

Choosing between Semaglutide and Tirzepatide is a critical decision, and Genesis Health Institute is here to guide you every step of the way. Dr. Cabrera will work closely with you to determine the best treatment plan tailored to your unique needs, ensuring you achieve optimal results.

With their commitment to cutting-edge treatments and personalized care, you’re not just embarking on a weight loss journey; you’re stepping towards a healthier, more vibrant life.

Embrace the future of weight management with Genesis Health Institute. Contact them today to learn more about how Semaglutide and Tirzepatide with peptides can transform your health journey. And, for a limited time, get free Accufit or Sculpsure at the end of the year if you lose 50 lbs. Call (954) 561-3175 and mention this article to learn more. Schedule a complimentary consultation with Genesis Health Institute, conveniently located in Wilton Manors. Call 954-561-3175 or visit ghinstitute.com

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

Doxy PEP: a Second Chance to Avoid Some STIs

Since COVID, sexually transmitted infections (STIs) have been rising in the U.S., especially in gay and transgender communities.

One approach to help reverse this trend is called “Doxy PEP.” We spoke with Dr. Stephen Fallon, Executive Director of Latinos Salud, South Florida’s leading HIV/ STD community health clinic, to learn what the agency has planned to address this resurgence in STIs.

OutClique: There’s PrEP, and we’ve even heard of PEP. What’s Doxy PEP?

Doxy PEP is an antibiotic treatment that offers a chance to protect against bacterial STIs, even after the fact.

Latinos Salud has been closely monitoring the research on Doxy PEP. Some studies proved it can cut sexually transmitted infection rates in half, especially in urban gay communities. Other studies pointed to a possible risk, noting that if Doxy PEP was prescribed too broadly, people taking their doses inconsistently could accidentally build up and pass resistance to these very bacterial diseases in their communities.

For that reason, Latinos Salud has not yet promoted Doxy PEP publicly. We’ve been prescribing it to select patients

who could otherwise have a high risk of acquiring and passing STIs along in the community.

But the surge in STIs calls for more people to know about Doxy PEP now. That’s why we announced our service in early April.

OutClique: Why should some people consider taking Doxy PEP?

Condoms protect against HIV, and also protect against most other STIs. PrEP protects against HIV, even if condoms are forgotten. But it doesn't protect against STIs.

In the past 5 years, the number of people diagnosed with both HIV and another STI in South Florida has nearly doubled for syphilis (up 72%), chlamydia (up 97%) and gonorrhea (up 100%). Rates are also climbing significantly amongst HIV-negative community members.

OutClique: Who is Doxy PEP for?

Initial guidelines suggest that Doxy PEP is best used with gay or bisexual men, and transgender women, especially those who are either taking PrEP or who are HIV positive.

OutClique: How does Doxy PEP work?

Patients are prescribed the antibiotic doxycycline as soon

Photo Courtesy of Steven Shires

as possible after experiencing condomless sex (ideally within 24 hours, definitely within 3 days).

OutClique: What do patients take? How difficult is it to take?

Doxy PEP is a very limited dose treatment. Patients take two 100 mg pills of doxycycline. If there's another slip up, patients take another two pills.

Now, this is very important to understand: though PrEP, PEP, and Doxy PEP all sound similar, they have very different goals, and require very different levels of commitment from the patient.

PrEP is the daily pill to prevent HIV. People on PrEP make a commitment to take PrEP every day in advance of a possible slip up that could otherwise expose them to HIV. PrEP isn’t to be taken as a one-off or occasional medication. This is one exception to this daily commitment: PrEP is also available as a bi-monthly shot.

PEP, meanwhile, is like Doxy PEP in that the word “PEP” means “post exposure” (or, after the fact) prophylaxis (meaning something that protects). But the term PEP

by itself refers to trying to keep HIV from latching on.

That’s a much tougher task than trying to stop a bacterial STI from reproducing. So, regular PEP to prevent HIV requires a serious commitment to 28 days of powerful anti-retroviral medications.

OutClique: How effective is Doxy PEP?

Three studies released at the Conference on Retroviruses and Opportunistic Infections (CROI) last month found Doxy PEP is highly effective in protecting against two STIs: chlamydia and syphilis. Unfortunately, it appears far less effective against gonorrhea, due to broad resistance to the type of antibiotic used in Doxy PEP.

OutClique: How can OutClique readers know if they should take Doxy PEP?

Latinos Salud’s clinical staff in each location will assess your fit for Doxy PEP, and prescribe it if you are a candidate. As a reminder, while Latinos Salud primarily advertises its services to the underserved gay Latino community, we’re here for everyone. You don’t have to be Latino to come to Latinos Salud.

Make an appointment for STD screening or for PrEP, and ask about Doxy PEP during your appointment.

Author:

OutClique Staff Writer

Photo Courtesy of Latinos Salud

Craving the Unattainable Unraveling the Attraction to Straight Men

Let's be real, who hasn't had fleeting thoughts about getting intimate with a "straight" guy? Guilty as charged, I've dabbled in that territory myself, and I bet many of you have, too. It's easy to brush it off as just a fantasy, but let's dig deeper, shall we?

So, what makes the idea of straight men so alluring?

1. Masculinity: We're drawn to it like moths to a flame. For many, growing up meant being bombarded with the idea that masculinity is the pinnacle of attractiveness. Blame it on societal conditioning or cultural norms, but straightpresenting men often find themselves on a pedestal.

2. Dominance: Ah, the age-old dance of power. BDSM fantasies often revolve around dominance and submission, and guess who's typically cast as the dominant figure? Yup, you guessed it—straight men. It's the ultimate power play that some of us find irresistible.

3. Validation: Picture this: you're the last kid picked for the team, always feeling like you don't quite fit in. Been there, done that. Seeking validation from straight men might just Danny

Morales

be a way to reclaim the power you felt you lost in your formative years.

4. Acceptance: Remember feeling like an outsider, desperate to be part of the "cool kids" club? That longing for acceptance can linger well into adulthood. Sleeping with a straight guy might feel like finally being seen as an equal, a way to erase those childhood wounds.

But here's the kicker—chasing after the unattainable can wreak havoc on your self-esteem. Trust me, I've been there. Seeking validation from someone who doesn't see your worth is a losing game. It took me a while to realize that I didn't need anyone else's approval to feel whole.

So, if you find yourself caught in the trap of longing for someone who doesn't reciprocate your feelings, it's time to hit pause and ask yourself why. Is it worth sacrificing your sense of self for someone else's affection?

In the end, it's about learning to love and accept yourself for who you are. Because let's face it, there's nothing sexier than confidence—no straight guy required.

Podcast | Email: DannyMoralesCoaching@gmail.com

Author: Daniel Morales (Self-Esteem & Love Coach) | Photo Courtesy of Dreamstime.com

Empowerment and Elegance

A Celebration of Service at the SunServe SHINE Gala

My heart is full of gratitude as I reflect on the splendid evening of the SunServe SHINE Gala on April 5, 2024. As we convened at The Venue, Wilton Manors, dressed in the timeless elegance of black and white, we not only celebrated our community's changemakers but also the collective commitment to SunServe's critical mission.

This event, sold out for the third year in a row, was a resounding success, drawing more than 400 guests— each a vital thread in the fabric of our vibrant community.

The gala underscored the extensive services that SunServe provides: mental health care, housing solutions, substance use programs, transgender care, youth and family counseling, youth shelter, women's health initiatives, and senior services, including a daycare center.

As one of the Gala Chairs since its inception, my dedication to SunServe's mission is as steadfast as ever. This gala reaffirmed our shared pledge to extend support and care to those who need it most, focusing on the well-being of our children and young people.

During the SHINE Gala, it was an honor to recognize and applaud a group of extraordinary individuals,

each representing organizations central to SunServe's mission and our communities. The honorees included Cindy Arenberg Seltzer from the Children's Services Council, Florida State Senator Shevrin Jones, Michael Kahane from AIDS Healthcare Foundation—Southern Bureau, and Glen Weinzimer from the SMART Ride. We also celebrated Brett and Roby Tanenbaum from The Venue.

I must extend a heartfelt thank you to Tony Lima and his remarkable team, whose year-round dedication culminated in the flawless execution of this gala. The

evening's success was not merely due to the efforts of one night but was built on the foundation of tireless work throughout the year.

As we look back on this memorable evening, I am reminded of our strength when we stand together. Here's to the ongoing success and the unwavering spirit of service that defines SunServe and each person their talented team touches. Together, our communities shine brighter.

You can still help make a difference in someone's life. Give today at SunServe.org/Give.

Author: Chris Caputo, Commissioner - Wilton Manors, FL | Photos Courtesy of Carina Mask, SRL Media, and JR Davis (all rights SunServe)

Hope Prevails Florida AIDS Walk Raises $2 Million

The 19th annual Florida AIDS Walk & Music Festival (FAW) wrapped successfully after the AHF-sponsored event on March 9 attracted more than 2,000 people who helped raise more than $2 million for 13 South Florida nonprofit organizations working in HIV/AIDS care, research, and prevention.

The FAW's top entertainers included musicianinfluencer and “American Idol” star and event headliner Todrick Hall, R&B superstar Eric Benét, and DJ Citizen Jane. Official radio partner iHeartRadio’s host Kimmy B emceed the event.

“Todrick Hall has been an advocate for so many within the LGBTQIA+ community and was an amazing spokesperson in helping to raise funds for

our beneficiaries as well as raise awareness of the devastating impact of HIV/AIDS on the South Florida community,” said AHF Southern Bureau Chief Tracy Jones. “One of the things we want to make sure everyone knows is that HIV is not over . . . and that folks should get tested regularly and often to make sure that they’re taking care of themselves and their families," added Jones during an interview with CBS News Miami.

2024 FAW beneficiaries included Broward House, Afro Pride Florida, Aqua, Equality Florida, Latinos Salud, The Pride Center at Equality Park, The McKenzie Project, Inc., Pridelines, Safe Schools South Florida, SAVE LGBTQ, SunServe, Transinclusive, and World AIDS Museum and Educational Center.

The Our Fund Foundation Lifting Up South Florida’s LGBTQ Community Raising Money From Us, For Us.

By Diana Hanford

The name “Our Fund” is listed as a supporter on almost every LGBTQ event, program and agency in Broward and Miami-Dade Counties. Since its inception in 2011, The Our Fund Foundation (its official name) has grown to be the third largest LGBTQ community foundation in the country with nearly $25M in assets. It’s an incredible accomplishment for a relative newcomer on the scene, but Our Fund President & CEO, David Jobin, insists the number of millions of dollars invested is only half of the story – and maybe not even the most important half.

“In our early years, we always led with talking about our asset base because it provided Our Fund with an aura of stability. And it was important back then as we were asking people to leave us their estate – or a part of their estate – when they pass, and we needed to give the appearance of being rock solid.” Now, says David, “We lead with the stories of impact and the stories of what our asset base has allowed The Our Fund Foundation to achieve for our community.”

Examples of this impact are found throughout the community.

There are the more visible accomplishments. A courtyard next to Island City Stage is designed to host patron events paid for with a grant from Our Fund. SAGE@ Sunshine, a program that trains volunteers to look in on isolated LGBTQ elders, bears Our Fund’s name as the funder. The new Sunshine Pride House, Our Fund’s most ambitious endeavor, opened in January 2024. The Pride House is a 12-bed facility for unhoused LGBTQ youth operated by Sunshine Cathedral in partnership

with SunServe and The FLITE Center, for which 100% of the monies were raised by Our Fund coordinating with two key donors.

Says Board Chair Scott Bennett about Our Fund’s achievements, “There are flagship organizations serving the LGBTQ community that certainly are on our list of grantees, agencies like Equality Florida, SAVE, and The Pride Center. And that will always be the case. But what I’m particularly proud of is how Our Fund seeks out grassroots organizations and start-ups with a good idea and gets behind them with our financial support and our linkage to others in the community who can offer support.”

Scott is quick to point out that it is David Jobin’s passion that he brings to Our Fund that has fueled much of the growth of the organization and its outreach into the community. “Because of David’s background leading non-profit agencies, he is particularly effective at understanding the needs of the agencies and leveraging how Our Fund can best support their missions.”

Says David about his role at Our Fund, “It wasn’t until I landed at Our Fund in 2015 that I was able to utilize all of the skills I had developed through my 30-year nonprofit career and do it on behalf of a community and causes for which I care passionately about. I think I still see the community and its needs through the eyes of the agencies doing the good work, which helps me to be a better partner to the agencies. Also, at Our Fund, I try to leverage my privilege as a white cis-gender male to raise funds for communities and movements that might not have the access I’ve been afforded.”

Our Fund’s mission is what drives David’s leadership

The Our Fund Foundation promotes philanthropy, manages enduring investments, and conducts meaningful grant-making to improve the lives of LGBTQ people in South Florida.

“It’s a mouthful, but we are serious about creating a more philanthropic environment among the LGBTQ community in South Florida. And we are having much success on that front,” says David.

Prior to moving to South Florida in 2012, a move prompted by Jobin’s husband Angel Burgos’s taking a position at Florida International University, the couple lived in Washington DC where David served as the Executive Director of the Gay Men’s Chorus of Washington DC for five years. Once in South Florida, David became the Executive Director of the Stonewall National Museum & Archives.

“Before I took the job at Stonewall, I remember Robert Boo, Executive Director of The Pride Center, telling me to be careful, that the place was ready to go under. But I didn’t listen to him and jumped at the chance to lead the agency. We still laugh about it today. Much of Stonewall’s recovery story can be attributed to the support we received from Our Fund,” says Jobin. Stonewall Museum was a good fit for David as he believed (and continues) in championing Stonewall’s mission of preserving and celebrating LGBTQ history.

“When Angel’s job prompted our move to South Florida and I started thinking about a job search, I remember

Googling “LGBTQ,” “non-profit” and “South Florida” and the first thing that popped up was OUR FUND.”

Our Fund was in its infancy at the time – but David was drawn to a community within a community foundation concept. “I had worked closely with community foundations throughout my career and knew their intrinsic value – but the fact that South Florida had one in place told me two things: that this was a very welcoming place for LGBTQ people and that there was an infrastructure to support and grow the community.”

Our Fund’s initial leaders put in place a stable community foundation model that instantly developed a following that trusted its leadership and vision. Says David, “I got to follow the founding president and CEO, Tony Timiraos, who served in the role for five years prior to retiring. Tony had in his arsenal all of the experience and proficiencies that created the infrastructure for success that we see today.”

David and Angel were interestingly among the “First 100 Funders” supporters that helped to launch Our Fund. “We had just landed in town, and I was working at Stonewall – but I instantly saw the value in Our Fund and what it could mean to South Florida’s LGBTQ community. So

2023 Health & Wellness grant reception

even though we barely had the resources at the time to donate to belong at that level, we made the stretch gift and are still listed among Our Fund’s initial donors, never having guessed that I would someday come to lead the agency.”

“When I took over Our Fund after Tony,” says David, “I remember thinking that there’s no money.” While it was a successful launch of a community foundation, Our Fund’s model for success depended upon legacy members – those individuals and families who leave Our Fund in their wills and estate plans. So, while there were over 50 households who had made that commitment, no one had passed away. David says, “Right as I was starting and Tony was leaving, a gentleman, Walter Gaugler, died and left Our Fund $400,000 in his will. It was a game changer.”

The money left to Our Fund by its initial legacy donor allowed Our Fund to begin investing in LGBTQ causes and organizations serving South Florida. This then allowed people to see the purpose of a community foundation – for people to carry on the values by which they lived their life when they are no longer here.

“I never got to meet Walter Gaugler - but I can tell you

this - he’s had an impact on every LGBTQ life in South Florida because he provided a runway for Our Fund to become what it has,” says David.

The Epicenter of LGBTQ South Florida

The Our Fund Foundation has a firm grasp on the community’s shifting needs and invests in the collective vision of what South Florida’s diverse LGBTQ community can and should be.

“The Our Fund Foundation is not only the most trusted source for LGBTQ philanthropy, but also where donors and nonprofit organizations turn to for collaborative support and solidarity,” said Rev. Dr. Robert Griffin, Executive Minister of the Sunshine Cathedral. “When we learned Our Fund was supporting an effort to develop a home for unhoused young LGBTQ adults, we quickly signed on as the lead agency to make the Sunshine Pride House a reality.”

Because there was very little money for granting in Our Fund’s initial years, the network of agencies supported by Our Fund was limited. In the past eight years, Our Fund has vastly expanded that network and now grants to over 50 agencies annually from its endowed funds. Our

Sunshine Pride House dedication with lead donor and 2024 Our Fund Philanthropist of the Year Michael Kalb Christine Frederick (FLITE Center), David Jobin, Dr. Rev. Robert Griffin, Tony Lima and lead donor Terry Merlin

Fund’s success in diversifying the network of agencies it supports helps to lift up voices and programs that might otherwise not be heard.

A sampling of organizations and agencies funded through Our Fund’s Health + Wellness; Arts + Culture; and Social Justice + Equity Funds include: SunServe, Chainless Change, Black LGBTQ Liberation, Aqua Foundation for Women, TransInclusive, Hued Songs, Thinking Cap Theatre, South Florida Pride Concert Band, Plays of Wilton, Museum of Discovery and Science, American Civil Liberties Union, Poverello, Gilda’s Club, Prism, Ujima Men’s Collective, Sunshine Cathedral, and Jewish Community Services of South Florida - just to name a few.

G Wright, Executive Director of the nonprofit organization BLINC which produces Thou Art Woman, a LGBTQ+ performance and visual arts event series and a grantee of Our Fund since David arrived, says “I’m so proud that the art event series I co-founded with Nik Harris just celebrated 10 amazing years. Without The Our Fund Foundation’s sustained financial support and invaluable mentorship on how to best lead a nonprofit I’m not sure we could have made it this far.”

Says SunServe CEO Tony Lima about Our Fund and its

support of his agency, “SunServe had gone through a rocky transition period prior to my arrival, and I can say with certainty that it is because of Our Fund’s financial support and the guidance that David Jobin provided that I was able to stabilize the organization. SunServe has strengthened and not only do we continue providing lifesaving mental health and social services to our community, but we’ve grown exponentially. David is the first call I make when confronted with a challenge or opportunity. David and Our Fund have always been there for us.”

The Right Solution at the Right Time

Just prior to the height of the Covid pandemic in 2020, two of Our Fund’s Legacy Society members passed, Ted Emery and Jim Laird, leaving Our Fund in their wills. The monies received allowed Our Fund to distribute over $600,000 in rapid response grants to agencies in its network. The monies came at a desperate time for many agencies as annual galas were canceled and annual fundraising drives were coming up short due to peoples’ uncertainties about their own finances. Says Board Chair Scott Bennett, “Our Fund’s ability to pivot quickly and for our Board to make the extraordinary decision to release funds in an emergency situation no one could

2023 Our Fund Philanthropists of the Year Didier Moritz and Erwin Mayer with David Jobin (center)

Our Fund Co-Founder Dick Schwarz and supporter Tom Jones with Jim Barber

David Jobin and Angel Burgos

have predicted illustrates the importance of having an LGBTQ community foundation in South Florida. We come together to take care of our own. We’ve been doing it since the AIDS epidemic. As a marginalized community, we must be able to support ourselves in times of need.”

David Jobin says about the pandemic, “Not only did our ability to provide rapid response grants help to keep agencies’ doors open, lights on, and salaries paid, it also made a statement to the community about the necessity of Our Fund and how we manage donor’s gifting when they are no longer here to do it themselves.”

It was also during the pandemic that Our Fund began partnering with The Community Foundation of Broward and The Miami Foundation as both foundations had new leadership during the pandemic that allowed for a forging of new and fruitful relationships that benefit all of South Florida. “It’s been rewarding to work with both foundations,” says David, “and provide the knowledge and experience we have to make a greater impact in our community than we would otherwise be able to do. We have a great respect for the work of The Community Foundation of Broward and The Miami Foundation. Together we are able to make life better for everyone in our region.”

Donors Making a Difference

With nearly 180 households signed up to leave legacies with The Our Fund Foundation, the Foundation has changed the conversation about philanthropy in South Florida’s LGBTQ community, creating a focus on wealth transfer through wills and estate plans that did not exist prior to Our Fund.

Jim Barber, a longtime member of the South Florida Pride Wind Band, reached out to Our Fund about his legacy wishes because he wants his estate plan to support the Pride Band which has played an important role in his life since he joined the group in 2011. "Whatever I leave behind," says Jim, "I want it to help the Pride Band make life better for its musicians, its student musicians, and those whose lives are impacted by the music we make. The whole process with Our Fund couldn't have been simpler and more straightforward and it gives me comfort that it's all resolved when I’m gone."

Our Fund also engages a network of Donor Advised Fundholders and helps them to make sure their philanthropy is well-directed and makes optimal impact. Our Fund’s CFO Mark Blaylock says about Donor

Scott Bennett and David Jobin

2019 Philanthropists of the Year Jim Stepp (deceased) and husband Peter Zimmer with Mark Blaylock (center)

David Jobin and G. Wright

Advised Fundholders’ granting, "In addition to grants made from Our Fund's endowment, we also leverage the support of our 180 Donor Advised Fundholders to invest in the community's greatest needs. The partnership we have with Donor Advised Fundholders and the trust they place in us to help guide their giving amplifies the impact we make on the region and ensures that our supporters' philanthropy is directed at the community's most pressing needs. This philanthropic guidance and pulse on the community's needs is what makes a donor advised fund at The Our Fund Foundation so much more effective than a similar fund at one of the institutional DAF providers.”

Driving Southward

With an original mission to serve Broward, Palm Beach and Miami-Dade Counties, most of Our Fund’s donors and grantees and all of its board members were from Broward County at its start. When Jobin arrived, he recommended to the Board that Our Fund recognize its limitations of reach and to focus on Broward, with an eye to expanding after its reputation grew. That began to happen in 2019 when Our Fund adopted a Miami Strategy to “matter more in Miami.” A commitment of grant dollars to Miami-based agencies elicited notice from Miami’s LGBTQ philanthropy community and Our Fund now has a significant footprint in Miami with 8 of its 23 board members hailing from Miami-Dade. “Palm Beach is still on our radar for the future – but we probably want to focus on Broward and Miami-Dade and make sure we are prepared before we attempt a third county to serve,” says Jobin.

The Power and Potential of Legacy Giving

Through Our Fund’s efforts to grow its legacy society, Our Fund projects $150M+ in future estate gifts from those who have already signed on. “Even if we don’t grow beyond our current scope of legacy members, Our Fund will be investing $7.5M every year in the future in perpetuity to support the work of agencies like SunServe, Pride Center, Latinos Salud, The Gay Men’s Chorus of

South Florida, Island City Stage, Plays of Wilton, Lesbian Thespians . . . the list goes on and on and on.”

David conservatively estimates that there are 1,000+ LGBTQ charitably-minded households in South Florida who could leave Our Fund in their will – but haven’t yet reached out. “If each of these households leaves behind one million dollars, and remember that’s the value of retirement savings, condos, cars, it would result in a $1Billion asset that Our Fund could have in the future that would generate $50M every year in grants. That’s nearly enough to power every current LGBTQ-serving non-profit in Broward and Miami-Dade. We could live in a world free of galas and constant fundraising if people would just take the time to talk to their attorney about making sure their wills reflect their values.”

Says David, “When childless LGBTQ folks first think about wills when they’re younger, they consider their nieces and nephews, who might be pre-college at the time and could benefit from an estate gift that would help to establish their futures. But the reality is that when most people pass, their nieces and nephews will be in their 50s or beyond and already established. Did everything we work for in life, everything that matters to us as out and proud LGBTQ folks . . . did we do all of this to pass along our wealth to people who may not even share our values, or could we make a difference to our community that has supported us as a chosen family?”

That is the question that The Our Fund Foundation asks the community to think about every day, both now and in the future.

“It’s the reason we exist. We help answer a question for people who want their wills to reflect their values and their lived experience. We have these conversations with people every day. It’s the best feeling in the world for our supporters to know they’re making life better for others. As they say, you can’t take it with you.”

For more information or to make a donation of any size, contact The Our Fund Foundation.

Omega Seamaster Collection Precision at Every Level

OMEGA salutes the Seamaster family with an 11-watch collection in Summer Blue that celebrates water resistance.

To celebrate OMEGA’s oceangoing icon, the Swiss brand has produced a new collection with bold dials that include a striking tone reminiscent of a perfect day on a boundless sea.

The seven iconic models - eleven watches in all – track a trajectory from dressy to serious dive tech. Common to all is OMEGA's Summer Blue, used in greater or lesser degrees to reflect the water resistance of each Seamaster and relate its depth-defying credentials at a glance: Aqua Terra represents the sun-drenched surface, Ultra Deep the dark abyss.

We invite you to explore these special editions in depth.

www.OmegaWatches.com

Content and Photo Courtesy of Omega

The 35th GLAAD Media Awards Los Angeles

Photos Courtesy of Getty Images for GLAAD

Well Sung , the New Variety Show

The concept of a variety show is not new to Wilton Manors. However, there was definitely a void in town as no bar or cabaret was really presenting a live-singing version of the concept. The new variety show at The Well (formerly Hamburger Mary’s) titled The Well Sung Variety Show features reigning and rising stars of Wilton Manors, as well as the Fort Lauderdale area.

Not only is the new show taking place in a new bar, but The Well has enacted a $5 entertainment fee billed during the show. This appears to be a Wilton Manors first. In my January Bouvee Babble “We Love the Nightlife”, I even called for similar thinking. Perhaps it was foresight but it is in fact coincidence. But I am thankful for it. To clarify, the $5 does not go to the entertainment, it merely supplements the bar’s expenses in producing an artistically highly populated show like the Variety show. Most shows on the Drive feature up to 2 singers using tracks. Our show will feature up to 4 entertainers in many cases; one of which will be live pianist and musical director Rick Leonard. The overhead costs to produce a weekly show should go without saying, but it can be pricey. This is a move in the right direction as this modest fee, only billed during live shows, is helping to produce bigger and better shows all while helping to

pay local entertainers a living wage! This is a good thing.

The concept of a variety show also helps introduce audiences to perhaps new or unknown talent, as well as introduces the bar and entertainment directors to the talent they may wish to invest in; such as a residency. It is truly how many of the current leading acts got residencies; by guesting or making special appearances in other performers’ shows. In short, variety shows help stimulate the performer pool and thus feed development of creativity which attracts patrons (local and tourist alike).

Finally, in contrast to the many all-request shows we performers offer weekly on the Drive, this show is predominantly a set list driven show. Meaning that the singers have decided their selections ahead of the show.

As a result, many audiences in the early days of the show in April have commented “the artists bring their A-GAME.” Catch The Well Sung Variety Show at The Well (2426 Wilton Dr, Wilton Manors, FL 33305) every single Thursday. Reservations are easily made from any smartphone using Google or Yelp! Seating begins at 6:00PM and the show begins at 7:00PM and runs for about 90 minutes.

Author: Miss Bouvèé | Photo Courtesy of Timmy Wakefield

SunServe SHINE Gala

Photos Courtesy of SRL

Do You Need

Proof of Your Homestead Exemption?

You can easily print proof of your Homestead Exemption status as well as any other exemptions you may be receiving from our website. Simply locate your property record by entering your name, address, or Property ID # on our property record search page at https://web.bcpa. net/bcpaclient/#/Record-Search.

Do You Need Proof of Your Homestead Exemption?

You can easily print proof of your Homestead Exemption status as well as any other exemptions you may be receiving from our website. Simply locate your property record by entering your name, address, or Property ID # on our property record search page at https://web.bcpa.net/bcpaclient/#/Record-Search

Once you locate your property record, click on the “Print” icon – far right side of the property record page – to print your property record. Any exemptions you are currently receiving will show under “Exemptions and Taxing Authority Information”. You can also click the “Exemption” check feature in the middle of the page to print a transcript of your property’s current year exemption status.

Once you locate your property record, click on the “Print” icon – far right side of the property record page – to print your property record. Any exemptions you are currently receiving will show under “EXEMPTIONS AND TAXING AUTHORITY INFORMATION”. You can also click the “Exemption” check feature in the middle of the page to print a transcript of your property’s current year exemption status.

This property record page is your proof of Homestead Exemption should you ever need to provide it to your mortgage or insurance company.

This property record page is your proof of Homestead Exemption should you ever need to provide it to your mortgage or insurance company.

If my office can ever be of assistance to you, please do not hesitate to contact me directly at 954-357-6830 by email at martykiar@bcpa.net

Take care,

If my office can ever be of assistance to you, please do not hesitate to contact me directly at 954-357-6830 by email at martykiar@bcpa.net.

Marty Kiar, JD, CFA Broward County Property Appraiser

Take care, Marty Kiar, JD, CFA Broward County Property Appraiser

Photos Courtesy of Marty Kiar’s office

SunServe SHINE Gala

Photos Courtesy of SRL Media

Island Rhythms Are Calling at the Coral Ridge Yacht Club

Photos Courtesy of Tom Weber

Transgender Day of Visibility Event

Hosted by SunServe and AHF

Photos Courtesy of JR Davis

Calendar of Events

May 2024

TBD Daniel’s Husband Plays of Wilton / Ronnie Larsen / The Foundry

4/126/15 Looking Forward: Healing through Art ArtServe

Summer Camp Steamology (Grades K-4) Museum of Discovery & Science

1 The Concert: A Tribute to Abba The Parker

1-5 Pulp Island City Stage

2-4 La bohème Florida Grand Opera / Broward Center for the Performing Arts

2-12 Betrayal A Black Box Theatre Production - Lake Worth Playhouse

2-19 Cuban Chicken Soup The Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts

3 The Concert: A Tribute To ABBA Dr. Phillips Center / Orlando, FL

3 Tropical Wave Spring Concert - GMCSF United Church of Christ in Fort Lauderdale

3-5 SunFest’s 40th Anniversary Festival Downtown West Palm Beach

3-5 The Thorn The Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts

4 Orchestra Miami's Viennese Soiree Sanctuary for the Arts

4 DJ Hector Fonseca Eagle

4 One Night of Queen Dr. Phillips Center / Orlando, FL

5 Tropical Wave Spring Concert - GMCSF Coral Gables Congregational United Church of Christ

5 Indigo Girls Coral Springs Center for the Arts

5 Kentucky Derby Louisville, KY

7 Breakfast with the Chief’s & Sheriff’s / Chief Gary Blocker (Wilton Manors), Major Renea Peterson (Broward’s Sheriff’s Office), Chief William Schultz (Fort Lauderdale)

Pub on the Drive / Wilton Manors Business Association

7-12 Peter Pan

May 2024

The Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts

8 Brian Lynch Quintet: The Songbooks Broward Center for the Performing Arts

8-11 Shen Yun Walt Disney Theater / Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts / Orlando, FL

8-12 The St. Augustine Food + Wine Festival St. Augustine, FL

10

Reatlity Gays Broward Center for the Performing Arts

11 Classical Mystery Tour: A Tribute to the Beatles Broward Center for the Performing Arts

11 DJ Alex Ramos Eagle

11-12 Orlando Philharmonic Orchestra Presents Beethoven’s 5th

I

Trip Around the

Mizz

Park After Dark - A Fun

Steinmetz Hall / Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts / Orlando, FL

54 Rewind -

Carbonaro: Lies on

19 Orchestra Miami - Cabaret First United Methodist Church of Miami

23

Phillip Dunlap Trio, Jazz | Brazilian Voices, vocal ensemble | Nikki Kidd, R&B/Soul/Blues vocalist | Eglise Gutierrez, soprano with Luis Urbino, piano collaborator SunShine Cathedral / GENVAS

23 D-STU Eagle

23-27 Miami Pridechilla Summit & Music Festival Miami 25 Luau Pool Party

Street Pub Key West 26 FlockFest SPLASH Memorial Weekend

29 IGLTA Member Networking Reception Biltmore Miami Coral Gables Hotel

30 Take Pride Opening Reception Galleria Fort Lauderdale 30-6/23 Skintight Island City Stage

30 - 6/3 Gay Days Orlando

30 - 6/3 Girls in Wonderland – LGBT Orlando Festival Orlando

31 Considering Matthew Shepard Master Chorale of South Florida

2024

TBD A Shonda Play of Wilton / Ronnie Larsen / The Foundry

4/126/15 Looking Forward: Healing through Art ArtServe

1 "Stonewall "IN" STONEWALL" Exhibition Opening Stonewall National Museum, Archives, & Library

5/306/3 Gay Days Orlando Orlando

Now6/23 Skintight Island City Stage

Now6/3 Girls in Wonderland – LGBT Orlando Festival Orlando

1 Considering Matthew Shepard Master Chorale of South Florida

1-2 Considering Matthew Shepard / Orlando Sings

2 Tay Tay Dance Party - DJ Swiftie

2 The Gay Agenda: Revealed / Orlando Gay Chorus

4-9 Clue

Alexis & Jim Pugh Theater / Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts / Orlando, FL

The Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts

Steinmetz Hall / Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts / Orlando, FL

Walt Disney Theater / Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts / Orlando, FL

8 FLoatarama Fort Lauderdale.

5-9 Key West Pride Key West

6-23 Summer Shorts

The Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts

8-9 SunServe Presents “Life’s Spectrum” SunServe

8-23 SpongeBob The Musical

9 CommuniTea Dance

Clue

SPLASH Rainbow Edition

20 Equality Park After Dark - A Fun Artisan Market

Yacht Rock Gold Experience

Les Misérables

29 Pride: Then, Now, & Forever

Slow Burn - Broward Center for the Performing Arts

The Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts

in Fort Lauderdale - Broward

Pride Center at Equality Park

Arts & Cultural Center

Walt Disney Theater / Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts / Orlando, FL

Gay Men’s Chorus of South Florida The Parker

7/6 FlockFest 2024 Fort Lauderdale Beach

7/7 FlockFest SPLASH Flamingo Edition Easton at Courtyard Downtown FTL

7/117/14 GALA Festival

Gay Men’s Chorus of South Florida Minneapolis

7/118/4 A Streetcar Named Desire New City Players

7/13 The Great American Soul Book Aventura Arts & Cultural Center

8/78/11 Tropical Heat Key West

8/13 She Will Rock You! Starring Setphanie Hodgdon Aventura Arts & Cultural Center

9/1 FlockFest SPLASH Red Edition Easton at Courtyard Downtown FTL

9/4-9/8 WomensFest Key West

9/22 “An Afternoon Affair” Puerto Rico Isla del Encanto & the 11th Annual Icon of the Arts Award

GENVAS Venetian Arts Society / Arc Culinary Emeril Lagasse Foundation Innovation Kitchen

9/219/23 Summer Exortics & Orchids Plant Sale - 3rd Weekend of September Mounts Botanical Garden

9/249/29 Girl From the North Country Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts

10/5

Mind Your Health™ 5K Run, One-Mile Walk, and Outdoor Festival October Jackson Health / Tropical Park

10/17 La Danza” featuring the Art in Motion Dancers

10/17 Stonewall "Back to the Drive 2"

10/2210/27

GENVAS Venetian Arts Society / Savor Cinema

The Venue, Wilton Manors / Stonewall National Museum, Archives, & Library

The Book of Mormon (AdventHealth Broadway in Orlando) Walt Disney Theater / Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts / Orlando, FL

10/24 Headdress Ball Key West

10/2611/2 Southern Caribbean Cruise Adventure Bears

11/12 The Cher Show / (AdventHealth Broadway in Orlando) Walt Disney Theater / Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts / Orlando, FL

11/15 Wheel of Fortune LIVE! Broward Center for the Performing Arts

Want to get listed? Contact us! Info@OutClique.com | (954) 294-8560

The Our Fund Foundation and Community Foundation of Broward’s 2024 LGBTQ+ Social Justice &

Equity

The Our Fund Foundation and the Community Foundation of Broward has awarded 10 non-profit organizations a total of $300,000 in grants through the organizations’ collaborative 2024 LGBTQ+ Social Justice & Equity Fund which supports innovative projects that address discrimination and disparities faced by the LGBTQ+ community in Broward County.

“The LGBTQ+ community is in an extremely vulnerable position with continual attacks and political and social forces attempting to revive discriminatory policies,” said David Jobin, president and CEO of The Our Fund Foundation. “The LGBTQ+ Social Justice & Equity Fund is one of many ways we’re attempting to meet the moment thanks to the backing of supporters who understand the need for a meaningful philanthropic response at this critical time.”

Formed in 2022 by the two respected foundations with the goal of creating a more informed and empathetic environment for the LGBTQ+ population, the strategic partnership combines critical philanthropic resources and expertise for the benefit of the LGBTQ+ community and all residents of Broward County.

“We are proud to partner with The Our Fund Foundation to make a real difference in the LGBTQ+ community." said Jennifer O'Flannery Anderson, Ph.D., President/CEO of the Community Foundation of Broward. "Many thanks to our amazing volunteers who poured over the grant applications and chose projects with the potential to change lives. These grants are a bold step forward in our longstanding mission to ensure everyone in Broward’s LGBTQ+ community is treated with equity, dignity, and respect. It's a powerful reminder of the incredible things we can achieve when we work together."

Fund Awards $300,000 in Grants

Each nonprofit grantee was thoroughly vetted by a joint selection committee and will receive between $29,000$50,000.

The 2024 LGBTQ+ Social Justice & Equity Fund Grant Recipients Include:

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Broward – BIG Pride

The BIG Pride mentoring program connects LGBTQ+ youth to a caring adult, community resources, events & activities to help build a support network.

Black LGBTQ+ Liberation – BLINC (Black LGBTQ+ Liberation, Inc.)

Operational support to more effectively fulfill their mission to help LGBTQ+ Black and Indigenous People of Color (BIPOC) in South Florida lead happier and healthier lives.

Equality Florida Institute – Preserving Progress for LGBTQ+ Youth in Broward County Public Schools

Equality Florida will continue to claw back lost progress for LGBTQ+ youth in Broward County Public Schools.

Fort Lauderdale Historical Society – PRIDE Month exhibit

FLHS will create, install and market a PRIDE month exhibit celebrating the South Florida LGBTQ+ community.

Keshet – Keshet-Broward County LGBTQ+ Inclusion and Belonging

Educate and train Jewish institutional leaders to build communities of LGBTQ+ belonging in Broward County.

Museum of Discovery & Science – MODS Inclusivity Initiative: Building Paths to LGBTQ+ Inclusion & Acceptance

MODS will provide inclusive training and community engagement that builds bridges to understanding and acceptance of Broward’s LGBTQ+ community.

PRISM FL – PRISM Student Ambassador Program

The PRISM Student Ambassador Program (P-SAP) is a network of GSAs and other LGBTQ+ student organizations empowering the next generation of leaders.

SAVE Foundation – Be Election Ready (BER)

The BER Project recruits and trains LGBTQ+ people to have meaningful conversations with Broward residents to ensure they're ready to vote in 2024.

Stonewall National Museum & Archives – Stonewall: A Community’s Legacy for Today, & Tomorrow

Recreate Stonewall Inn/uprising June 29, 1969 that launched the LGBTQ+ movement inspiring new generations to accept the reigns and fight for equality.

Thinking Cap Theatre – Creatively Nurturing Community & Improving Visibility for South Florida’s LGBTQ+ Women

An 8-month creative and educational arts project designed to unite, enrich, and empower a historically marginalized LGBTQ+ demographic: women.

The Bill Beaton & Ted Emery Charitable Fund and The Paul Fasana Charitable Fund at The Our Fund Foundation, sponsored the 2024 LGBTQ Social Justice & Equity Fund.

The Richard Frisby & Edward Burkhart Fund; Charles L. Ross Fund; Mary N. Porter Community Impact Fund and the LGBTQ+ Community Impact Fund at the Community Foundation of Broward, sponsored the 2024 LGBTQ+ Social Justice & Equity Fund.

Author: Diana Hanford, Pierson Grant PR

Steven Shires Photography

Photos Courtesy of

Rising Tides, Rising Leaders Unleashing the Power of South Florida's Youth

Facing escalating climate challenges in South Florida, the call to action aligns with opportunities for resilience, renewal and rejuvenation. Rising sea levels, extreme weather patterns and many other environmental concerns demand a united front, compelling broader engagement in adapting to and mitigating the impacts of a warming climate. The Museum of Discovery and Science (MODS) takes a leading role, acknowledging the vital contribution of youth in shaping a sustainable future by actively involving them in crucial conversations. The Broward Youth Climate Summit, an initiative by Broward County Public Schools (BCPS) and Broward County Resilient Environment Department, provides a pivotal platform for young leaders to spearhead change and cultivate a sense of hope and belonging in the collective pursuit of environmental solutions.

BCPS students from grades 5 to 12, armed with passion and determination, immerse themselves in learning about climate issues affecting their communities. In the classroom, they brainstorm ways to contribute, knowing that their ideas will soon take center stage at the Broward Youth Climate Summit. This annual gathering, now in its sixth consecutive year, has become the epitome of youthful energy and innovation.

The 2024 Summit, held at Pompano Beach High School, drew more than 1,000 students into a world of green technology, challenging them to "forecast for the future." The air was buzzing with creativity and optimism as students showcased their ideas through vivid poster presentations, breathtaking art and engaging networking sessions with like-minded peers. It wasn't just an event;

it was a celebration of the potential locked within the minds of these young leaders.

But the summit isn't just about showcasing ideas; it's a melting pot of inspiration and collaboration. Breakout sessions, led by environmental experts, provided invaluable insights. Representatives from the Broward County Resilient Environment Department took the stage, leading discussions on water, parks, air quality and the importance of green spaces. The CLEO Institute, a champion in climate advocacy, joined the ranks, fostering discussions and building a formidable corps of students ready to talk climate and advocate for impactful solutions.

Amidst this vibrant and inspiring landscape, the MODS EcoExplorers Interns made their mark, taking charge of sessions on sustainable transportation and water resources. The EcoExplorers, including dynamic speakers Hannah Charles and Lindsay Perrin, students from Northeast High School and South Broward High School, kick-started the summit with a keynote address that resonated with enthusiasm and challenge. They presented sunny forecasts for their futures in climate action, daring their peers to envision the changes they want to see.

The EcoExplorers aren't just summit speakers; they are part of a paid internship program offered by MODS' STEM Center for Education and Career Development. Designed for environmentally curious 10th, 11th

and 12th-grade students, this year-long program encompasses summer immersion and a school-year workforce readiness component. For more information and to apply, please visit mods.org/ecoexplorers. The goal? Cultivating Environmental Stewards equipped to convey the importance of sustainability and resilience to the broader community and pursue careers in the sustainability field.

For those attending the Broward Youth Climate Summit, it was evident that the seeds of change are not just planted; they're in full bloom. The energy, creativity and determination displayed by these young leaders are not just commendable; they're awe-inspiring. By amplifying their voices, providing platforms for action and investing in their development, MODS is nurturing a generation of climate champions. The result? A more inclusive, equitable and prosperous community.

Empowering youth to take meaningful strides towards sustainability and adaptation isn't just about securing a brighter future; it's about crafting stories of resilience and innovation. The Broward Youth Climate Summit and MODS EcoExplorers program are beacons of hope, proving that the passion and dedication of the younger generation are the driving forces behind meaningful change. As we witness the unwavering spirit of these young climate warriors, we can't help but feel an infectious excitement for the future they're shaping – a future defined by stewardship, innovation and collective action.

Lance Cutrer is the director of environmental sustainability at the Museum of Discovery and Science. He is an education and sustainability professional with expertise in ecology, wildlife and fisheries management and primary/secondary education.

Author: Lance Cutrer | Photos Courtesy of Caitie Switalski/WLRN, and Broward County Public Schools Youth Climate Summit

2024 ArtServe Impact Awards Gala

Photos Courtesy of

The Community Foundation of Broward Awards Grant to Help Broward Residents’ Creativity Flourish at ArtServe

ArtServe’s annual programming and exhibits will be getting additional support thanks to a grant from The Community Foundation of Broward. The funds will help the Fort Lauderdale arts incubator expand community outreach in Broward County and spread the word to Broward artists and art lovers about how they can participate with ArtServe’s many programs.

“Our classes, quarterly exhibits and other activities are so popular, it’s very clear there are still so many creative people we can reach,” ArtServe CEO Jason Hughes said. “These are folks who dream of exhibiting, performing, teaching or simply enjoying art and never knew that, thanks to ArtServe, you can do all of those things right here in your own hometown!”

Support for ArtServe’s grant was provided by the following Funds at The Community Foundation of Broward:

● Ruth H. Brown Fund for the Arts

● Ron Castell Memorial Fund

● Everett H. Metcalf, Jr. Unrestricted Fund

● The Frederick A. DeLuca Foundation Broward Community Fund

ArtServe, which holds four themed exhibits a year, including a photography exhibit, is hopeful the expanded outreach will encourage more artists to submit their work to be featured in these events.

“In the art world, getting your work seen by as many people as possible is often a key component of future

success,” Hughes said. “ArtServe offers a space where everyday people of every imaginable creative talent can get that coveted visibility and fulfill their dreams. Often, they even launch careers.”

The Community Foundation of Broward has identified art and culture as a key core of thriving communities and a vital means of connecting people to their neighbors and each other. Importantly, Americans for the Arts Florida notes that, as of March 16, 2022, art and culture in Florida is a significant industry contributing to economic growth and jobs for residents, representing 2.9% of the state’s GDP.

Too many residents remain cut off from the power of art and culture programs that can unite, inspire and revitalize our community, The Community Foundation of Broward explains.

“We can proudly say that ArtServe’s mission directly aligns with The Community Foundation’s goals, which include igniting creativity, building community pride and identity, engaging all residents, transcending differences and breaking down barriers, inspiring and fostering dialogue and interaction, celebrating our rich, diverse cultures and history, and supporting our cultural treasures,” Hughes said.

ArtServe inspires, supports and advances its diverse members, artists and community by promoting artistic development, education and prosperity through the exploration and presentation of the visual and performing arts.

Content Courtesy of Jennifer J.H. Pierce, Pierson Grant PR

Dishes On Podcasts, Modern Family , and Fatherhood

Jesse Tyler Ferguson

Nothing surpasses the joy of engaging in a splendid conversation over an exquisite meal, and that is precisely what Modern Family alum Jesse Tyler Ferguson offers through his podcast, Dinner’s on Me

Currently in its second season, the award-winning actor flips the script by interviewing his celebrity friends and colleagues, revealing intriguing facets and a different side of their personalities. Whether it’s reminiscing over Modern Family episodes with co-stars Sofia Vergara and Ed O’Neill or delving into tough and lighthearted topics with notable figures like Bryan Cranston, Kristen Bell, and Jim Parsons, Ferguson and his guests serve up captivating discussions that leave listeners hungry for more.

Ferguson recently took some time out of his busy schedule to catch up with OutClique and talk more about the podcast, how it originally came to fruition, and his aspirations for listeners. Additionally, he also reflects on the enduring impact of Modern Family, shares his thoughts on a potential reboot, and touches on his current role that keeps him busy non-stop: fatherhood.

Denny Patterson: You are currently working on the second season of your Dinner’s on Me podcast. How has that been going?

J Jesse Tyler Ferguson: It’s been going great! We're in our second season now, and I'm thrilled that we get to continue doing this. A podcast host was never a job that I saw myself doing. The producers approached me about this idea that they had, and I loved it. It's this idea of taking a friend out to dinner and just having a great conversation over a meal, and I liked the idea of taking these long-form conversations out of the podcast studio and bringing them out into the world at different restaurants. Taking the people that I’m having a conversation with out of their comfort zone. So, it's been wonderful, and I've had some very surprising conversations.

Denny Patterson: What do you ultimately hope listeners take away from the podcast?

J Jesse Tyler Ferguson: I think it's interesting for listeners to sort of hear these people that they admire or might just be discovering for the first time in an atmosphere that's not so formal. What I love about the podcast is that you hear us in a restaurant. You hear other patrons, you hear martinis being made, you hear plates being delivered to tables, you hear the waiter come up to the table and ask us what we want and if we have any allergies. You do sort of feel like a fly on the wall or a third chair at the table, and then what usually follows is a pretty intimate and revealing conversation. I definitely see a different side of my guests, and they certainly share

stories that they've been telling for years, but then there's stories I’ve never heard before.

Denny Patterson: I love that some of your Modern Family co-stars like Julie Brown, Ed O’Neill, and Sofia Vergara have been guests. Any plans to have Eric Stonestreet on soon?

J Jesse Tyler Ferguson: Yes, Eric and I have been trying to make a date work. We did have a date on the books, but then the Hollywood strikes happened, so we decided to postpone. Like, we can’t have you on and not be able to talk about Modern Family. That’s just ridiculous. He mostly lives in Kansas now, so I’ll have to catch him when he comes back to LA, but he’ll absolutely be a part of the podcast at some point.

Denny Patterson: Mitchell is the role that truly catapulted you to stardom. Did you ever imagine Modern Family would become such a pop culture phenomenon?

J Jesse Tyler Ferguson: I don't think any of us imagined that. I was lucky enough to work with enough seasoned actors who had been in this business a while. Aside from the kids, Eric and I were probably the greenest people. Everyone else had all been through this before and sort of implemented that if this was meant to be, it’s meant to be. It can be great on a page, but if it doesn’t turn out, it happens. I think we were all prepared to just let it be what it was, and nobody knew that we had something special. I don’t think it was until the second season after we’ve been nominated for another round of Emmy Awards where it was like, okay, maybe we are here to stay for a while.

Denny Patterson: After Modern Family, your life went down a different path and you are now the proud father of two boys. How have you and Justin adjusted to parenthood?

J Jesse Tyler Ferguson: Um, we’re doing fine (laughs). I think we’re doing good! I mean, we love being dads, but we’re exhausted and there are times where we mourn our old life. We used to live in a trendy area on the Eastside of LA, and now we’ve moved to the suburbs with the kids. We do miss who we were before kids, but we also can’t imagine our lives without them. I’m at this stage where I’m just so excited to see the types of people my kids will grow to be. They’re already showing so much personality and adopting so much of who we are, and it's an exciting time. I feel like I’m saying the stereotypical things that all parents say, but it really puts my career into perspective and prioritizes things in a different way.

Dinner’s on Me is available on all podcast streaming platforms. Stay up-to-date and connect with Ferguson by following him on Instagram and TikTok @JesseTyler.

Author: Denny Patterson | Photo Courtesy of Luke Fontana

Hooray for Hollywood Concert at the Parker

Photos Courtesy of SRL Media

GMCSF Wins Non-Profit Organization of the Year

The Gay Men’s Chorus of South Florida (GMCSF) is used to getting rapturous applause from adoring audiences. Now they’re getting it from their peers.

The Chorus is being recognized with the BBX Capital Organization of the Year - The Arts award. The honor was bestowed at the 13th Annual Community Care Plan Non-Profit Awards.

“We’re dedicating this to the 180 singers who volunteer hours upon hours because the believe we are for all and we share our diverse mission,” GMCSF Executive Director Mark Kent said.

The award, presented by 211 Broward at the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Hollywood, sings the praises of GMCSF’s work and their outstanding impact on the local arts community and their dedication to diversity.

“Cultivating these experiences we get to have with other organizations like, we’re creating these spaces and

good times,” Gabe Salazar, GMCSF’s Artistic Director, told OutClique .

Singing In Spring

The Chorus will be here, there, and everywhere throughout the month. On Friday, May 3 at 8pm at UCC Fort Lauderdale, and Sunday, May 5 at 6pm at Coral Gables Church of Christ, they will perform their Tropical Wave Spring Concert, How Can I Keep From Singing? The show is a mix of familiar songs that will have you dancing in the pews.

May 31, 2024, they will perform the national anthem at the Marlins’ annual Pride at the Park night, getting a jump on Pride month by a day.

They will also sing at Yom HaShoah Holocaust Remembrance, honoring survivors during a service at Yom HaShoah at Temple Sinai in Hollywood. Held on Monday, May 6, the sculpture gallery opens at 6:15PM on May 6, 2024, and the program will include a cablelighting memorial ceremony.

Author: John Hayden | Photo by Ginny Dixon

MODS' Wine, Spirits, and Culinary Celebration

Photo credit: Michael Murphy Photography for the Museum of Discovery and Science

BY PATRICIA KANE

DIRECTED BY NICOLE STODARD

South Florida Pride Concert Band Presents

‘May the Fourth Be with You’

A Star Wars Day Concert Featuring the Music of Composer John Williams

The South Florida Pride Concert Band announced a special concert May the 4th Be with You, featuring the music of John Williams and hosted by Pandora Boxx of RuPaul’s Drag Race All Stars, scheduled for Saturday, May 4, at 7 p.m. at the Amaturo Theater at the Broward Center for the Performing Arts.

The audience is in for a treat with countless fan favorites composed by Williams, an Oscar- and Grammy Award–winning composer and conductor, known for creating some of the most recognizable movie scores in history, including for Jaws, E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial, Jurassic Park, Superman and of course the Star Wars franchise.

Boxx will host the lively concert with her incomparable flair and humor as the South Florida Pride Concert Band performs several electrifying songs from Stars Wars and other notable soundtracks composed by Williams. Video footage will accompany much of the music and as always, there will be some fun surprises.

“We’ve been looking forward to this concert for a long time and are incredibly honored Pandora Boxx is flying into town as our special guest host,” said Dr. Adam DeRosa, president of South Florida Pride Bands. “With our final concert of the season falling on May 4, it’s only fitting that we pay tribute to the Star Wars franchise and feature the extraordinary works by Williams, one of the most prolific composers of our time.”

Audience members are encouraged to dress in theme as their favorite Star Wars character or other memorable

personalities from one of Williams’ films. Additionally, Amanda Stewart, a talented clarinet player and student at Nova Southeastern University School, who was the winner of the Second Annual FLoatarama Soloist Competition, will perform the 3rd movement of Mozart's Clarinet Concerto.

Content Courtesy of Diana Hanford, Pierson Grant PR | Photo Courtesy of Jose Cardress

Symphony of the Americas’ 2023/2024 Season Finale

Symphony of the Americas’ Artistic Director Pablo Mielgo welcomes special guests violinist Pinchas Zukerman and his wife, cellist Amanda Forsyth to the stage for the Symphony’s 2023/2024 Season Finale. Brahms, Debussy & Ravel, leaving their indelible mark on the worldwide musical landscape are celebrated as some of classical music’s greatest composers. The performances will take place on Sunday, May 5 at 2:00PM and Tuesday, May 7 at 7:45PM, both in the Amaturo Theater at Broward Center for the Performing Arts.

Born in Tel Aviv to Jewish parents and Holocaust survivors, Zukerman began his musical studies at age four, on the recorder. With a celebrated career encompassing five decades, Pinchas Zukerman reigns as one of today's most sought after and versatile musicians - violin and viola soloist, conductor, and chamber musician. He is renowned as a virtuoso, admired for the expressive lyricism of his playing, singular beauty of tone, and impeccable musicianship, which can be heard throughout his discography of over 100 albums for which he gained two Grammy® awards and 21 nominations.

Mr. Zukerman has recorded for CBS Masterworks,

Phillips, Angel, Deutsche Grammophon, CBC Records, Altara, Biddulph Recordings, Sony and BMG Classics/ RCA Victor Red Seal.

Canadian Juno award winning cellist Amanda Forsyth is considered among her peers and critics alike to be one of the most dynamic cellists on the concert stage today. Describing a recent performance, California’s Ventura County Star raves: “In Forsyth’s hands, it was sheer magic.” She has achieved an international reputation as a premiere soloist and chamber musician and previously enthralled audiences as the principal cellist of both The Calgary Philharmonic and Canada’s National Arts Centre Orchestras.

The Program

Violin and cello double Concerto – Johannes Brahms

Soloists:

Pinchas Zukerman, violín Amanda Forsyth, cello

Prélude à l’Après-midi d’un faune – Claude Debussy Boléro – Maurice Ravel

Pablo Mielgo Artistic Director & Conductor

5 MAY 7 MAY

PINCHAS ZUKERMAN

Michael Carbonaro Will Make You Believe in Magic

Known for performing illusions causing people to doubt their own eyes, out actor and magician Michael Carbonaro has fittingly titled his new tour Lies on Stage, and he’s bringing it to The Parker on May 17, 2024.

In an interview with Lavendar magazine last fall, he said, “There’s this electricity that happens when I start doing things right there, in front of them, for real. There’s this excited relief. Like it’s real. Not real, real. It’s real, fake real. It’s not camera tricks.”

While Carbonaro has been performing magic since his youth, he took a detour to study experimental theater at New York University. As an actor, he’s often recognized for the gay-teen comedy Another Gay Movie, for which he won two Grand Jury Awards at L.A. Outfest. Other appearances include Happily Divorced, 30 Rock, Grey’s Anatomy and CSI Miami but the pandemic brought him time to perfect a new show and return to magic.

With his unmatched blend of humor and charisma, he conjures up a concoction of unbelievable magic, hysterical offbeat shenanigans and wonder for audiences of all ages.

In an interview with the St. Pete Catalyst, he said, “I think an

actor is a magician, and a director is a magician . . . anyone who does any kind of performance, where you’re creating something out of nothing, channeling and transcending emotions and feelings and images, it’s a kind of magic.”

He first gained mainstream attention for his magic presenting hidden-camera magic in frequent appearances on The Tonight Show with Jay Leno, before becoming the star and executive producer of The Carbonaro Effect which ran for over 100 episodes on truTV and currently airs on Max and in worldwide syndication.

In The Carbonaro Effect, he goes undercover as a coffee shop barista, museum curator, a seemingly unremarkable store clerk and other identities to perform inventive tricks on unsuspecting members of the public. Real people are bewildered as he makes a car disappear under a security guard’s nose and turns crabs into kittens in a science lab.

Now he’s following his first tour, Michael Carbonaro Live!, with an evening he says is filled with silly tricks and audience participation. The audience's reaction has proven that the star of Another Gay Movie is here with anything but another magic show.

Breakfast with the Otters

Trumpeter, musical director and educator, this Grammy® Award recipient brings an unparalleled depth and breadth of experience to his teaching as well as his music. An honored graduate of two of the jazz world’s most distinguished academies, Art Blakey and the Jazz Messengers and the Horace Silver Quintet, Lynch also received wide acclaim during his long tenures with Latin jazz legend Eddie Palmieri and jazz master Phil Woods. With over 20 critically acclaimed CDs featuring his distinctive composing and arranging, Lynch continues to tour the world with various ensembles, a reflection of the

Author: Samantha Rojas | Photo Courtesy of Nick Ruechel Photos Courtesy of Michael Murphy Photography

Our Brilliant

Cultural Tapestry Featuring Phillip Dunlap Trio

In partnership with Sunshine Cathedral Center for the Performing Arts, Generation Venetian Arts Society (GENVAS) is proud to present Our Brilliant Cultural Tapestry, a special original Salon concert showcasing the vibrancy of South Florida and its artisans.

Featuring performances from a range of genres by entertainers representing the diversity of our community, audiences can expect an engaging and whimsical evening of music. One of the production’s featured artists is none other than Broward County’s Cultural Division Director Phillip Dunlap, who will be playing certain selections of jazz.

Hailing from St. Louis, Missouri, Dunlap has always been a staunch advocate for arts and cultural diversity in communities. While in St. Louis, he served on the boards of several nonprofit organizations such as Jazz St. Louis and Missouri Citizens for the Arts, and he also taught jazz history and music business at prestigious colleges like Webster University and Southern Illinois UniversityEdwardsville.

All are welcome to attend Our Brilliant Cultural Tapestry on May 23, 2024, at Sunshine Cathedral, and Dunlap took some time to talk more about it and his passion for the arts with OutClique

Denny Patterson: Phillip, can you begin by telling us what we can expect from your upcoming GENVAS concert?

Phillip Dunlap: Well, this concert is sort of a collection of groups and musicians from South Florida, so I’m just very happy and honored to be involved. I’m a jazz pianist, so my bread and butter are a lot of the core repertoire from the Great American Songbook, jazz standards, etc., and I’m still mulling over the set that I’ll play. My portion will probably be 20-30 minutes out of the whole concert, so you’re talking 3-4 pieces. I’ll be playing solo piano; there’s a fantastic grand concert piano at Sunshine Cathedral that I can’t wait to play on, and you can expect some repertoire that I’m sure people will know. Even if they don’t know the specific pieces, I think the style that I’ll play is going to be very familiar to people.

Denny Patterson: This concert is titled Our Brilliant Culture Tapestry. What do you hope audiences take away from it?

Phillip Dunlap: One of the things that makes Broward County great is its diversity and its cultural diversity. Just like a tapestry, we're so interwoven and connected, and that’s a great thing about art. It brings us together to celebrate that diverse tapestry, and what a great tie-in to have all these different artists from different backgrounds and styles of music. Jazz is a tapestry in and of itself, something that was woven together and continues to be added on to by everyone that studies and plays the music. So, I think the title of this concert is a perfect representation, and the artists in the program and the music that will be performed are perfect tie-ins.

Denny Patterson: What is it about jazz music that has always appealed to you?

Phillip Dunlap: That's a good question. I think I've always been someone that doesn't fit well into a prescribed mold, and what I like about jazz music is that there was a framework and structure that was provided, but within that structure and framework, you had the ability to make it your own. That was my struggle with

classical music as a young musician, the idea that there was one way to interpret something, or it was all about perfection and accuracy. Within that perfection and accuracy, how do you still make something your own or be true to yourself? I really struggled with that, but jazz became a blueprint, and I had all these possibilities of how to take and use that blueprint as a way to express myself through music. So, I think that’s why jazz really appealed to me. There’s the idea that you could play the same song every night for a year, but it’s going to be different every night.

Denny Patterson: I assume it’s safe to say you’ve always had a love and passion for music?

Phillip Dunlap: Yes, as long as I can remember. I started taking piano lessons in second grade, and I remember as early as fifth grade knowing that I wanted to pursue music as a career. But what that exactly entails has evolved over the years. When I was in fifth grade, I wanted to be a concert pianist, but when I heard my first jazz concert, which was my brother’s high school jazz band, I was like, I want to study that music. As I studied and learned more about jazz in high school, I decided I wanted to be a jazz pianist, so I went to school for jazz piano. Then in school, I was like, wow. Pursuing music full-time is a difficult career. I thought I could do it, but I began to gravitate more towards the administrative and business side, and I knew I could do the admin and business stuff and still be involved in the performance elements of it. So, the focus over the years has evolved, but I've known since fifth grade that I wanted to pursue music as a career.

Denny Patterson: Before we wrap up, are there any other upcoming projects or any updates with Broward County’s Cultural Division you would like to tell us about?

Phillip Dunlap: Just keep on the lookout for some exciting new initiatives coming down the pike, but nothing I want to get ahead of myself with. Make sure to check out ArtsCalendar.com for the latest updates.

May 23, 2024

Author: Denny Patterson | Photo Courtesy of Andrew Meade

Jeff Brackett Returns to South Florida for Island City Stage’s Skin Tight

Skin Tight, the critically acclaimed production by Joshua Harmon, will make its South Florida debut at Island City Stage on May 30, 2024 and play through June 23.

Initially premiering Off-Broadway in 2018 at the Roundabout Theater in New York City, Skin Tight assays the nature of love, the power of attraction, and the ways in which a superficial culture persists in teaching its children that all that matters is what’s on the inside. The show follows Jodi Isaac, who is reeling from her ex-husband’s engagement to a younger woman. When she turns to her

famous fashion designer father for support, she instead finds him involved with a much younger guy named Trey.

Harmon brings neurotic family drama to the forefront as father and daughter contend with the age-old questions of how to age gracefully in a world obsessed with youth and where love fits into it all.

OutClique had the opportunity to catch up with New Yorkbased actor Jeff Brackett, who will play the role of Trey at Island City Stage, and talk more about his character,

what makes Skin Tight worth seeing, and why he loves the South Florida theater community.

Denny Patterson: Jeff, how excited are you to perform in Island City Stage’s upcoming performance of Skin Tight?

Jeff Brackett: I’m very excited! This will be my first time performing at Island City Stage, and I very much love the team and the shows that are put on there. I’m looking forward to making my Island City Stage debut.

Denny Patterson: Without giving too much away, what can we expect from this production?

Jeff Brackett: Without giving too much away, I think we as a society, have an idea of what love looks like. Whether it's heteronormative love, queer love, whatever it is, we have an idea and we want to put it into a box. I think Skin Tight allows us to look at what love is and the many ways in which it can show up, as well as the many ways it can fail and succeed.

Denny Patterson: Who do you play?

Jeff Brackett: I play Trey. He’s an okie boy who is in love with an older man named Elliot Isaac, a famous fashion designer, and he is played by Steve Schroko. There’s a significant age difference between the two.

Denny Patterson: What do you want to bring to your character?

Jeff Brackett: First off, I want to bring honesty and authenticity to the role. To this person who is not aware of different things in the world. He still has so much to experience, but what’s the thing that really draws him and Elliot together? I want to bring that to a very honest place, and of course, he’s very fun. I’ve been looking forward to showing the reality of their connection.

Denny Patterson: And what are you personally hoping to gain from this experience?

Jeff Brackett: One of my dear friends played Elliot at the Roundabout, and he actually helped me with my audition. This is a play that’s been on my mind for the last six years. I’m excited to further explore this relationship and society’s boundaries that are placed on love. I’m

excited to gain a broader perspective on that. Also, the opportunity to work with Island City Stage. I’m looking forward to operating in a theater that truly pumps out some wonderful stuff.

Denny Patterson: You are based in New York but have been in several other South Florida productions. What keeps you coming back to the Sunshine State?

Jeff Brackett: I mean, the people are wonderful. I have stayed in contact with everyone that I’ve met and worked with, and it’s been meaningful to have those connections. Also, the weather in winter isn’t bad (laughs). I’ve been very lucky to perform in South Florida three times this last season. It’s such a wonderful, tight-knit community.

Denny Patterson: Have you performed on Broadway yet?

Jeff Brackett: Not yet. I’ve only done a handful of shows here in New York. I moved here, then the pandemic happened, so terrible timing. Now that everything has opened back up, I’ve had a lot of very cool auditions, and I honestly believe theater is the future. As we get more and more sucked into this artificial aspect of things, just being in the same place with other people can be so exciting and electric. There’s nothing like it, and it’s very profound. I think people are going to be craving those authentic experiences more and more.

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

Jeff Brackett: Just make sure to go see Skin Tight at Island City Stage! We open May 30. Also, check out Semper Civilian by Brett Edward Stout on Audible because I did the audio book recording. It’s the second book in the series, but it’s a self-contained story, so don’t let that freak you out. We’re going to be doing the whole series, and it’s about a gay marine in 2001. He just finished serving, and this was during Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell, so he’s trying to understand who he is as a gay man, as a marine, and as a civilian. He's trying to figure it all out. It's a beautiful story full of wonderful drama, so definitely check that out. Semper Civilian by Brett Edward Stout, narrated on Audible by yours truly!

May 30 - June 23, 2024

Island City Stage | www.IslandCityStage.org | www.OutClique.com/IslandCityStage

Author:

Denny Patterson | Photo Courtesy of David Vance

In Talks with Girls in Wonderland Co-Founder Alison Burgos

Are you ready to get down on the dance floor or relax by the pool? We sure hope so because Girls in Wonderland, Florida’s most iconic and epic event for queer women, is returning to Orlando for its 23rd anniversary.

Taking place May 30-June 3, 2024 at a brand-new location, TownePlace Suites Orlando/SpringHill Suites by Marriott, Girls in Wonderland is more than a party - it’s an unforgettable experience of community engagement, support, and camaraderie. Founded in 2000 by Amy Alonso, Alison Burgos and Yesenia Leon, the women behind Pandora Events, this powerhouse lesbian event production company from South Beach has gone on to create and produce some of the hottest LGBTQ+ soirées and music festivals in the country.

In a little over two decades, Girls in Wonderland has become a force on its own with over 10,000 attendees coming from near and far, representing all colors of the rainbow. This year is expected to be no different, and Burgos took some time out of her busy schedule to talk more about the event with OutClique

Denny Patterson: Thank you for taking some time to chat with me about Girls in Wonderland, which is celebrating its 23rd year! How exciting is that?

Alison Burgos: It’s very exciting, but it’s making me feel a little bit old (laughs). I mean, time flies. My partners and I started thinking about getting involved and creating safe spaces/experiences for the LGBTQ+ community in 1999, and it’s been a whirlwind. It was an unexpected path and journey, but it’s been rewarding. It’s been very special to have a part in creating community, building community, protecting community, and standing for community. We’ve been very committed as activists in fighting for LGBTQ+ rights and equality, both locally and nationally, and we’ve created a party with a purposeful atmosphere.

Denny Patterson: What can attendees expect this year?

Alison Burgos: First off, we’re at a new property this year. We’re very excited to be back with the Marriott family, which has been a great partner and ally to the LGBTQ+ community for many years. It’s two properties with this big pool in the middle, and what’s different this year is that we’re going to have an indoor component

to our pool parties. There’s going to be this indoor day club that will have a whole separate set of DJs playing fun house music, and we’ll have games in there like the Newlywed Game and Drag Queen Bingo. Our pool party will be in full effect with dancers and shows, and we signed Kristin Key, a tremendous comedian that was on Last Comic Standing. I saw her several months ago, and she’s so funny. I think the girls in our audience are going to love her. I’m also excited about being at Mango’s on Friday night. It’s a staple in Miami Beach, and they opened a location on I-Drive in Orlando around 4-5 years ago, and we’ve been wanting to collaborate with them. It’s a big, beautiful space and they do amazing shows. We’re going to have the phenomenal rapper Snow Tha Product headlining an event, and we’ve got an incredible lineup of DJs including Chloe Star, Gabby B, Rose Garcia, Citizen Jane, and DJ Tatiana. It’s going to be so electric in there. Then on Saturday, we’re going to be at New York Beer Project, which is this beautiful brewery in Winter Garden. We’ve been doing themes for our Saturday night parties, and this year’s theme is prohibition. Flappers, gangsters, very 1920s.

Denny Patterson: How would you say Girls in Wonderland differs from other events geared towards LGBTQ+ women, like The Dinah?

Alison Burgos: I think when you attend, you definitely realize that there is a difference. I say it all the time - we stand on the shoulders of The Dinah and what Mariah,

Sandy, and Robin created 30 plus years ago. I remember going to my first Dinah when I created Aqua Girl in 1999, and what they've done is unique and special, but I think it's also very LA. Girls in Wonderland started as more of a grassroots, southern Florida kind of vibe. It's grown and we have a lot of national and international attendees now, but at heart, I think we have a southern hospitality. I also think we probably skew a little younger. You see a wide range of ages at The Dinah and I think it feels a bit more formal. We’re more like, let your hair down, come as you are, and have fun. The Dinah and Girls in Wonderland are the two largest women’s festivals in the country, and we’re friends. We support each other, we work together, and we promote each other. I think that’s so special. In a world where people can be catty, competitive, or put each other down, I love that we've all worked to create a community where we rise, support, and lift each other up.

Denny Patterson: Before we wrap up, is there anything else you would like to mention or plug?

Alison Burgos: I would like to mention that we also partner with KindRED Pride, I’m on their board, and we’re doing something called the Pride Cup. This is our second year doing it, and we have amazing athletic experiences for people who maybe don’t want to party as much. We’ll have a kickball tournament, a volleyball tournament, golf, pickleball, and a 5k run. It’s going to be super fun.

Author: Denny Patterson | Photos Courtesy of Girls in Wonderland (GIW)

A 100-YEAR RETROSPECTIVE OF LGBTQ+ MILESTONES

Official Stonewall PRIDE Month Kickoff Event

OPENING CEREMONY

Thursday, May 30 • 6 - 8 p.m.

Galleria Fort Lauderdale

Tickets: $50

SPECIAL GUEST HOST

FayWhat?!

JOIN US AS WE RECOGNIZE OUR 2024 TAKE PRIDE HONOREES

Exhibition includes the Miss Florida F.I. Pageant Wall of Fame: June 1 - 30, 2024

*

Tickets: HistoryFortLauderdale.org

Robert Boo Steven Evans, Ph.D. Misty Eyez Mark Gilbert

Jacqueline Lorber Josie Smith Malave Erika Norell Shawn Palacious (Kitty Meow)

David Jobin

Andy Rogow

A Moving, Masterful Performance Honors the Legacy of Matthew Shepard

The Master Chorale of South Florida will present "Considering Matthew Shepard” on May 31 and June 1, 2024, at 8 pm as this year’s "Concert for a Cause.”

Annually, Master Chorale produces concerts for a cause to give voice to the mission and work of another nonprofit organization. This year, the Master Chorale recognizes SunServe, an organization that serves the most vulnerable members of the LGBTQ+ community. A portion of ticket proceeds will go to the organization and their youth programs.

“SunServe is an extraordinary organization that provides many different resources to families, individuals, and youth who are LGBTQ from housing to free mental health counseling,” Master Chorale Artistic Director Brett Karlin said.

Performed at the Sunshine Cathedral, the emotional three-part oratorio honors the life and legacy of Matthew Shepard, a gay college student at the University of Wyoming who was murdered in a 1998 brutal hate crime. This creative work weaves in Shepard’s words from his journals, interviews with his parents, media coverage of his murder and poetry. Referred to as “fusion oratorio,” “Considering Matthew Shepard” is a unique and moving

experience, with moments of narration and then moments of emotional reflection. The work ranges from high art classical music to R&B and country ballads.

The work was created in 2016 by composer Craig Hella Johnson, who has said that he was profoundly impacted by Shepard’s death.

“Craig is an extraordinary human being,” Karlin said. “When you talk to him you can just feel that he is present, that he is connected, and that he prioritizes that sort of connection with humans, and he also prioritizes it, I think, in his music making.”

Although this is not the only piece Johnson has composed, it is his largest.

“It’s the biggest in scope and scale. He’s composed and arranged many other choral pieces, and many of them have been a fusion of pop or folk style infused with high art classical music,” Karlin said. “So, it’s very Craig. It’s a little difficult to describe, but that’s really a hallmark of his personal style.”

Johnson takes an expansive variety of musical styles and weaves them into a whole.

Photo Courtesy of Alex Markow

Karlin, who will conduct the performances at the Sunshine Cathedral, said, “This work represents, essentially, a kaleidoscope of different musical styles in order to capture not only what is being retold as the narrative of this tragedy, but also these little interspersing recitations, where this is reflective instrumental music that supports the spoken text that describes, quite plainly and directly, this thing that happened to Matt, who was beaten and left for 18 hours outside.”

The oratorio includes texts by poets Rumi, Michael Dennis Browen, and Hildegard of Bingen. It also includes quotes from Johann Sebastian Bach. While some moments of the work sound very classical, others are more contemporary classical with the inclusion of Estonian composer Arvo Part.

“It fuses together many different musical styles,” Karlin said. “So, when you listen to the piece of music, you’re hearing a group of musicians execute many different styles from blues to bluegrass to folk music. Some moments will sound like Dolly Parton. Some will sound like traditional blues gospel.”

Part of Master Chorale’s mission includes performing works by contemporary composers—composers who talk about something significant, whether it’s social, emotional, or political.

“Performing music that doesn’t exist in a vacuum, is something that is really powerful,” Karlin said. “Music that educates. Music that tries to honor individuals. This is a really powerful pursuit, an honorable and noble pursuit.”

May 31 and June 1, 2024

Author: Megan Fitzgerald Dunn

The 5th Annual FLoatarama Flotilla Set for Saturday, June 8, 2024

The 5th annual FLoatarama Flotilla is the largest LGBTQ+ Pride-on-Water in America, and an official Stonewall Pride Parade & Street Festival event. The FLoatarama Flotilla is presented by Hunter’s Nightclubs and supported by and Sun Dream Yacht Charters.

When: Saturday, June 8, 2024 (midday – exact timing to be finalized subject to railway bridge opening schedules).

Where: The Flotilla starts at the Broward Center / Esplanade Park docks on the New River in downtown Fort Lauderdale and will proceed down the New River and along the IntraCoastal Waterway (ICW) to Sunrise Bay.

Note: the lead vessel Yacht Catalina will load and depart from the GALLERYone dock located at 2670 East Sunrise Blvd., Fort Lauderdale FL 33304 and proceed up the New River to the Esplanade Park start

point. Yacht Catalina will then signal the official start of the Flotilla and lead the fleet back down the New River.

Visuals: The signature Flotilla will feature 30+ private and commercial boats, all fabulously decorated for Pride. Sun Dream Yacht Charter’s magnificent 130-foot Yacht Catalina will lead the fleet with award-winning DJ and 400+ celebrants onboard. Supporting law enforcement vessels (Fort Lauderdale Marine Patrol, Broward Sheriff’s Office, Wilton Manors Police, Miami Dade Police & Coast Guard) will lead the Flotilla ahead of Yacht Catalina.

Why: FLoatarama is a South Florida 501(c)3 allvolunteer non-profit organization dedicated to raising funds to lift up LGBTQ+ Youth. FLoatarama has donated $142,000 to date, with a 2024 goal of $150,000.100% of all ticket sales will go to the FLoatarama LGBTQ Youth Fund, managed by our philanthropy partner The Our Fund Foundation.

Content Courtesy of Diana Hanford, Pierson Grant PR | Photos Courtesy of FLoatarama

CommuniTEA Dance 2024

The Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts of Miami-Dade County (@arshtcenter) is proud to invite the South Florida community to celebrate National Pride Month on Sunday, June 9 at the seventh annual CommuniTEA Dance, the Center’s FREE LGBTQ+ pride celebration.

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

Hosted directly on the Arsht Center’s Ziff Ballet Opera House stage, CommuniTEA Dance is a free event honoring South Florida's vibrant LGBTQ+ community. From 4 p.m. to 8 p.m., guests will be immersed in a rainbow-filled blowout starring Alex Newell (@ thealexnewell), Tony Award-winning, Grammy Awardnominated singer, songwriter, actor, activist and performer. Immediately following Newell’s electrifying performance, the event will transform into a glow-in-thedark dance party extravaganza featuring Miami-based DJ Musicat (@djmusicat) and performances by local artists and drag superstars which will be announced soon. Attendees are encouraged to dance, glow and illuminate the Arsht Center’s stage with pride throughout the event.

In addition to the performances and “Glowing with Pride” dance party, all guests are welcomed to explore the event’s Pride Marketplace which spotlights local LGBTQ+ and ally organizations, artisans, creatives and small businesses. Food and drink specials provided by Constellation Culinary will be available for purchase.

CommuniTEA Dance is supported by the Greater Miami

Convention and Visitors Bureau and OutClique Magazine.

About Alex Newell

Alex Newell is an electrifying talent whose presence in the entertainment world transcends boundaries. Born with an innate passion for performance, Newell has captivated audiences with their powerhouse vocals, dynamic stage presence, and unwavering commitment to authenticity.

Rising to prominence as a breakout star on the hit television series "Glee," Newell's portrayal of the fearless and flamboyant “Unique Adams,” one of network television’s very first transgender characters, garnered widespread acclaim and cemented their status as a force to be reckoned with in the industry. Building on this success, Newell seamlessly transitioned into the realm of theater, showcasing their versatility and immense talent on Broadway stages in musicals such as Once on This Island, which received a Grammy nomination for Best Musical Theater Album, and Shucked

In a groundbreaking moment in 2023, Newell made history by receiving the prestigious Tony Award for their breathtaking performance in Shucked. Along with J. Harrison Ghee, they became the first openly nonbinary performers to win a Tony Award in an acting category. This monumental achievement not only solidified Newell's status as a luminary in the theater world but also served as a testament to their extraordinary artistry and dedication to their craft.

Recognized for their groundbreaking contributions, Newell was also honored with a coveted spot on Time magazine's esteemed “Next 100” list, further solidifying their status as a cultural trailblazer and visionary.

Content Courtesy of the Arsht Center

Headlined by Alex Newell

Headlined by Alex Newell

Wild Florida Unleashed Championing Conservation Across South Florida

Across Broward County, a dynamic collaboration is underway among the Museum of Discovery and Science (MODS), Flamingo Gardens and Friends of Birch State Park in partnership with the Community Foundation of Broward (CFB). This collaboration is an extension of MODS’ and CFB’s launch of the Hub for Resilience Education, a pioneering initiative aimed at fostering community dialogue, education and action on environmental sustainability and resilience. The Hub has brought together more than 30 local organizations ranging from universities to environmental nonprofits and national and international corporations and is a testament to the collective commitment to conservation in South Florida.

This cohort of three local destinations is highlighting the important work of the Florida Wildlife Corridor Foundation, an organization dedicated to preserving the connectivity of Florida's ecosystems. The Corridor serves as a vital lifeline for the state's iconic species, facilitating the movement of wildlife between urban areas and remote wilderness while promoting nature connectivity, education and storytelling.

This three-part exhibit will tell the compelling story of the Wildlife Corridors, emphasizing the critical role of connectivity for wildlife survival. Guests are invited to engage in immersive nature play activities, interactive exhibits and hands-on experiences designed to inspire environmental stewardship at each of the locations.

MODS' Science Park will undergo a transformative journey, becoming an outdoor haven for exploration and discovery of urban habitats. Here, guests will be able to marvel at Florida's rich biodiversity, from the elusive Atala butterfly to native orchids and pond apples. Inside, EcoExplorer interns will showcase innovative solutions to address climate change, igniting the passion of the next generation of environmental leaders.

Over at Flamingo Gardens, the Everglades comes alive in unprecedented ways. Amidst fluttering butterflies and towering black bears, guests embark on a captivating journey through time and space, delving into the region's remarkable biodiversity. Plans for the Everglades Discovery Trail and the Mary N. Porter Learning Center further solidify Flamingo Gardens' commitment to environmental education and advocacy.

Birch State Park, home to some of Florida's rarest plant species including the Beach Jacquemontia, offers a glimpse into the delicate beauty of coastal habitats. As guests explore lush landscapes and encounter majestic gopher tortoises, they gain insight into the park's vital role in preserving the state's natural heritage. Ongoing conservation efforts, including habitat restoration projects and educational programs, underscore Birch State Park's dedication to environmental stewardship.

Together, these three locations will serve as a beacon of biodiversity, highlighting the interconnectedness of ecosystems and the importance of conservation. Through interactive exhibits and engaging nature play activities, guests are immersed in the intricate web of life that sustains Florida's wildlife.

This initiative goes beyond mere nature play — it is a catalyst for education, inspiration and action. By instilling in our children, the character traits of empathy, critical thinking, civic responsibility and personal resilience, we aim to cultivate future stewards of the environment.

The exhibit will be opening soon. Stay tuned for a date to be announced. Join us on this exhilarating journey into the heart of Florida's wilderness, where every moment presents an opportunity to make a meaningful difference. Are you ready to embark on this wild adventure?

Joseph P. Cox serves as the president and CEO of the Museum of Discovery and Science.

Author: Joseph P. Cox | Photo Courtesy of MODS

Clue

The Hilarious New Stage Play

Clue, the hilarious murder mystery comedy inspired by the Hasbro board game and adapted from the cult favorite film, comes to the Broward Center in Fort Lauderdale Tuesday, June 11 through Sunday, June 16, 2024 as the final show of the 2023/2024 Bank of America Broadway in Fort Lauderdale Season with presenting Sponsor Nicklaus Children’s Hospital.

Led by Broadway Director Casey Hushion (Associate Director of Mean Girls and The Prom, Associate Resident Director of Aladdin, choreography for the Netflix series Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt), murder and blackmail are on the menu when six mysterious guests assemble at Boddy Manor for a night they’ll never forget! Was it Mrs. Peacock in the study with the knife? Or was it Colonel Mustard in the library with the wrench? Based on the cult 1985 Paramount movie and inspired by the classic Hasbro board game, Clue is the ultimate whodunit that

will leave you dying of laughter and keep you guessing until the final twist.

Clue is based on the screenplay by Jonathan Lynn. Written by Sandy Rustin with additional material by Hunter Foster and Eric Price. It features original music by Michael Holland. The production also features scenic design by Lee Savage, costume design by Jen Caprio, lighting design by Ryan J. O'Gara and sound design by Jeff Human.

The Clue franchise began in 1949 with the manufacture of the ‘Cluedo’ board game. Currently owned and published by Hasbro, the game has since sold more than 200 million copies worldwide. A murder-mystery comedy film by Paramount Pictures based on the board game was released in 1985 and went on to achieve cult classic status with a passionate fanbase.

Les Misérables

Cameron Mackintosh presents the acclaimed production of Alain Boublil and Claude-Michel Schönberg’s Tony Award-winning musical phenomenon Les Misérables

This brilliant staging has taken the world by storm and has been hailed as “Les Mis for the 21st century” (Huffington Post), “a reborn dream of a production” (Daily Telegraph) and “one of the greatest musicals ever created” (Chicago Tribune).

Set against the backdrop of 19th century France, Les Misérables tells an enthralling story of broken dreams

and unrequited love, passion, sacrifice and redemption – a timeless testament to the survival of the human spirit. This epic and uplifting story has become one of the most celebrated musicals in theatrical history.

The magnificent score of Les Misérables includes the songs “I Dreamed a Dream,” “On My Own,” “Bring Him Home,” “One Day More,” “Master of the House” and many more. Seen by over 130 million people worldwide in 53 countries and 22 languages, Les Misérables is undisputedly one of the world’s most popular musicals.

June 18 - 23, 2024

The Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts | www.ArshtCenter.org

June 25 - 30, 2024

Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts | www.DrPhillipsCenter.org

Content Courtesy of Gino Campodonico, Arsht Center Photo by Matthew Murphy & Evan Zimmerman for MurphyMade

Dr. Phillips Center Announces the Lineup for the 2024/2025 AdventHealth Broadway in Orlando Season

Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts is excited to announce the lineup for the 24/25 AdventHealth Broadway in Orlando season. The dynamic 11-show lineup in The Walt Disney Theater features the return of three blockbuster musicals Disney’s The Lion King, The Book of Mormon, and Mean Girls, along with Broadway sensations, Cher and MAMMA MIA! and the Orlando debuts of Girl From The North Country, Some Like it Hot, A Beautiful Noise, Shucked, MJ The Musical and Stomp Show Descriptions:

About Girl From The North Country – September 24-29, 2024

Girl From The North Country is the Tony Award-winning musical set in 1934 Duluth, Minnesota, where we meet a group of wayward travelers whose lives intersect in a guesthouse filled with music, life and hope. This production is a vividly human experience brought to life by an extraordinary company of actors and musicians. Girl From The North Country reimagines 20 legendary songs of Bob Dylan as they’ve never been heard before, including “Forever Young,” “Hurricane,” “Slow Train Coming,” and “Like A Rolling Stone.”

About The Book of Mormon – October 22-27, 2024

The New York Times calls it “the best musical of this century.” Entertainment Weekly says, “Grade A: the funniest musical of all time.” It’s The Book of Mormon, the ninetime Tony Award® winning Best Musical. This outrageous musical comedy follows the adventures of a mismatched pair of missionaries, sent halfway across the world to spread the Good Word.

About Cher – November 12-17, 2024

The Cher Show is the Tony Award®-winning musical of her story, and it’s packed with so much Cher that it takes three women to play her: the kid starting out, the glam pop star, and the icon. The Cher Show is 35 smash hits, six decades of stardom, two rock-star husbands, a Grammy®, an Oscar®, an Emmy®, and enough Tony Award ® -winning Bob Mackie gowns to cause a sequin shortage in New York City, all in one unabashedly fabulous new musical that will have audiences dancing in the aisles!

About Some Like it Hot – December 17-22, 2024

Some Like it Hot is a four-time Tony Award® winner and Grammy Winner® for Best Musical Theater Album. Set against Prohibition-era Chicago when everyone was thirsty for a little excitement, two musicians are forced to flee the Windy City after witnessing a mob hit. With gangsters watching their every move, they catch a cross-country train for the life-changing trip of a lifetime.

About MAMMA MIA! – January 14-26, 2025

Set on a Greek island paradise where the sun always shines, a tale of love, friendship, and identity is beautifully told through the timeless hits of ABBA. For nearly 25 years, people all around the world have fallen in love with the characters, the story, and the music that make MAMMA MIA! the ultimate feel-good show.

Photo Credit: Evan Zimmerman for MurphyMade

Photo Credit: Julieta Cervantes

Photo Credit: Meredith Mashburn Photography

Photo Credit: Matthew Murphy

Photo Credit: Joan Marcus

About A Beautiful Noise – February 4-9, 2025

Created in collaboration with Neil Diamond himself, A Beautiful Noise is the uplifting true story of how a kid from Brooklyn became a chart-busting, show-stopping American rock icon. With 120 million albums sold, an induction into the Songwriters and Rock and Roll Halls of Fame, a Grammy® Lifetime Achievement Award, and sold-out concerts around the world, Neil Diamond's story was made to shine on Broadway-and head out on the road across America.

About MJ The Musical – March 4-16, 2025

Michael Jackson’s unique and unparalleled artistry comes to Orlando as MJ, the multi Tony Award®-winning new musical centered around the making of the 1992 Dangerous World Tour, begins a tour of its own. MJ goes beyond the singular moves and signature sound of the star, offering a rare look at the creative mind and collaborative spirit that catapulted Michael Jackson into legendary status.

About Mean Girls – March 28-30, 2025

Mean Girls is an incredibly entertaining hit musical from an award-winning creative team, including book writer Tina Fey. Cady Heron may have grown up on an African savanna, but nothing could prepare her for the primal ways of her strange new home: suburban Illinois. Soon, this naïve newbie falls prey to a trio of lionized frenemies led by the charming but ruthless Regina George. But when Cady devises a plan to end Regina’s reign, she learns the hard way that you can’t cross a Queen Bee without getting stung.

About Disney’s The Lion King – April 23 - May 18, 2025

There is simply nothing else like Disney’s The Lion King. Join more than 100 million people around the world and experience the entire Serengeti come to life as never before with awe-inspiring visual artistry, unforgettable music and the uniquely theatrical storytelling of this Broadway spectacular – one of the most breathtaking and beloved productions ever to grace the stage.

About Stomp – June 6-7, 2025

Stomp is explosive, provocative, sophisticated, startlingly unique and appeals to audiences of all ages. This worldwide phenomenon has performed in over 350 cities in 36 countries, picking up numerous rave reviews along the way and securing several appearances on national television shows.

About Shucked – June 24-29, 2025

Shucked is the Tony Award®–winning musical comedy The Wall Street Journal calls “flat out hilarious!” And nobody knows funny like economists. This corn-fed, corn-bred American musical is sure to satisfy your appetite for great musical theater. Shucked is recommended for ages 10+.

Photo Credit: Matthew Murphy, MurphyMade

Photo Credit: Julieta Cervantes

Photo Courtesy of Mean Girls

Photo Credit: Deen van Meer

Photo Courtesy of Stomp

Photo Credit: Matthew Murphy and Evan Zimmerman

Content Courtesy of Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts

Four of the World’s Top 10 Orchestras are Coming to the Kravis Center as Part of the 2024 – 2025 Classical Concert Series

The Raymond F. Kravis Center for the Performing Arts is delighted to announce the 2024 - 2025 Classical Concert Series, (formerly Regional Arts), now in its 50th season and sponsored by Leonard and Sophie Davis.

Dreyfoos Hall will be filled with music by some of the great Classical & Romantic masters, as well as groundbreaking new works and commissions by today’s leading composers. Highlights of the season include the Kravis Center debut of London Symphony Orchestra; the first appearance in more than twenty years by Amsterdam’s Royal Concertgebouw Orchestra, performances by two of America’s “Big Five” orchestras—Chicago and Cleveland—and appearances by Grammy© Award-winning artists like violinist Hilary Hahn and soprano Renée Fleming.

The 2024 - 2025 Classical Concert Series includes:

Royal Concertgebouw Orchestra

Tuesday, November 19, 2024 at 7:30 p.m.

For over 130 years, Amsterdam’s Royal Concertgebouw Orchestra has been counted among the very best orchestras in the world - Gramophone rates them number 1. The Concertgebouw will tour North America for the first time with their new Chief Conductor Designate, the fast-rising Finnish conductor, Klaus Mäkelä.

Chicago Symphony Orchestra

Friday, January 17, 2025 at 7:30 p.m.

Hailed as one of the greatest orchestras today, the Chicago Symphony Orchestra will take the stage with renowned Music Director, Riccardo Muti. Experience their legendary repertoire in a program featuring Schubert’s mysterious and “unfinished” Eighth Symphony, and Tchaikovsky’s triumphant and fiery Fourth Symphony.

The Cleveland Orchestra

Monday, January 27, 2025 at 7:30 p.m.

The Cleveland Orchestra is widely regarded as one of the top 5 orchestras on the planet. They return with the internationally acclaimed Singaporean

Klaus Mäkelä | Photo Credit: Marco Borggreve

Lisa Batiashvili | Photo Credit: OJ Slaughter

Riccardo Muti | Photo Credit: Todd Rosenberg Photography Kahchun Wong | Photo Credit: Laura Stevens

conductor, Kahchun Wong and star Japanese violinist, Sayaka Shoji, who makes selective, highly anticipated US appearances.

Daniel Hope and the Polish Chamber Orchestra of Sinfonia Varsovia Monday, February 24, 2025 at 7:30 p.m.

After last season’s stunning ‘America’ program, master violinist, Daniel Hope, returns with his award-winning project, Journey to Mozart. As the last protégé of legendary violinist Yehudi Menuhin, Daniel Hope will be joined by the ensemble with which Menuhin performed the most, the Polish Chamber Orchestra of Sinfonia Varsovia. Together they will explore the musical period from 1760-1810, before, after and around Mozart's life—through his violin works, as well as his contemporaries like Gluck and Haydn.

An Evening with Itzhak Perlman and Rohan De Silva Monday, March 10, 2025 at 7:30 p.m.

Undeniably the reigning virtuoso of the violin, Itzhak Perlman enjoys superstar status rarely afforded a classical musician. Beloved for his charm and humanity as well as his talent, he is treasured by audiences throughout the world who respond not only to his remarkable artistry, but also to his irrepressible joy for making music. He will be joined by longtime musical partner, Rohan De Silva, in a traditional program for violin and piano.

Israel Philharmonic Orchestra

Thursday, March 20, 2025 at 7:30 p.m.

The Israel Philharmonic Orchestra is the leading orchestra in Israel and globally recognized as a world class symphonic ensemble. They’ll be led by their new Music Director, the brilliant Lahav Shani, who has established himself as one of the most talked about young conducting talents and is considered an inspiring successor to the legendary Zubin Mehta.

New World Symphony

Friday, April 18, 2025 at 7:30 p.m.

Miami-based New World Symphony is known as America’s Orchestral Academy. French conductor, Stéphane Denève, was recently named Artistic Director and is the first successor to Michael Tilson Thomas. They will be joined by famed cellist, Sheku Kanneh-Mason, the 24-year-old who catapulted to stardom when he won the prestigious BBC Young Musician award and played at the Royal wedding of the Duke and Duchess of Sussex.

Daniel Hope | Photo Credit: Daniel Waldhecker

Itzhak Perlman | Photo Credit: Masterclass.com Lahav Shani | Photo Credit: Marco Borggreve

Sheku Kanneh-Mason | Photo Credit: Ollie Ali Ray Chen | Photo Credit: John Mac

2:00 PM

Curtis Symphony Orchestra

Sunday, December 15, 2024 at 2:00 p.m.

Led by internationally renowned conductors and featuring sparkling repertoire, the Curtis Symphony Orchestra is an immersive experience with unique resonance. The ensemble will be joined by Grammy© Award winning conductor Teddy Abrams, and internationally acclaimed violinist, Ray Chen the winner of the Yehudi Menuhin and Queen Elizabeth Competitions.

Sunday, January 5, 2025 at 2:00 p.m. Program: Voices of Nature

Inspired by Renée Fleming’s 2023 Grammy© Award-winning album, Voice of Nature: The Anthropocene, this special performance spans the classical, romantic, and contemporary eras, with beloved songs and new commissions exploring nature as both inspiration and victim of humanity. The National Geographic Society is providing original video to reflect the musical selections.

London Symphony Orchestra

Saturday, March 1, 2025 at 2:00 p.m.

The famed London Symphony Orchestra makes its anticipated Kravis Center debut. Under the direction of one of the world’s most sought-after conductors, Sir Antonio Pappano, their program features the celebrated Dutch violinist, Janine Jansen, performing Leonard Bernstein’s only “violin concerto”, and British composer, Sir William Walton’s dark and sensual First Symphony.

National Symphony Orchestra

Sunday, March 23, 2025 at 2:00 p.m.

Three-time Grammy winner and Musical America’s 2023 “Artist of the Year”, Hilary Hahn, is known around the world for her expressive musicality and technical expertise. She will join the Kennedy Center’s very own National Symphony Orchestra in a performance of Korngold’s glamorous, glittering Violin Concerto—an extraordinary fusion of Viennese romance and Old Hollywood. Then, they’ll also perform one of the best-known compositions in classical music, Beethoven’s Fifth Symphony, under the baton of renowned Music Director, Gianandrea Noseda.

Raymond F. Kravis Center for the Performing

Content Courtesy of Charlotte Vermaak, Kravis Center

Renee Fleming | Photo Credit: Andrew Eccles, Decca

Antonio Pappano

Photo Credit: Musacchio & Ianniello licensed to EMI Classics

Janine Jansen | Photo Credit: Marco Borggreve

Hilary Hahn | Photo Credit: Dana van Leeuwen, Decca

Bubbles & Brunch Fundraiser

Slow Burn Theatre Company celebrates their upcoming 15th Anniversary Season in a Brunch Fundraiser hosted by Marc Martorana and Don D'Arminio

Photos Courtesy of Charles Baran

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