Out With Dr. Bill: A Season of Upstanders, Art, and Heart

Some months unfold not as calendars but as collages—stitched with courage, creativity, and friendships that light the way. This was one of them. From standing beside changemakers at the Upstander Awards to celebrating artists and friends who inspire me, I was reminded how connected we are through art, advocacy, laughter, and love.

It was a season of moments that stirred the spirit and revealed what community truly means. In a world that moves too fast, these experiences slowed time just enough to savor the beauty of presence—and the joy of being with people who matter.

If life has taught me anything, it’s that we collect moments the way others collect stamps or rare wines—treasured, fleeting, and best when shared.

This month, I found myself inside a kaleidoscope of experiences that reminded me just how fortunate I am to be surrounded by extraordinary people creating extraordinary memories.

I’m beginning this column with the Upstander Awards—not because it was the grandest event (though it certainly deserves a top spot); rather, it touched me the most. Its message, its energy, and the people in that room continue to echo in my heart, creating serenity and peace.

The past few weeks have been a beautiful blur—a swirl of travel, events, and connection so full that trying to put it all in perfect order would be like alphabetizing confetti in a breeze. So rather than fight the chaos, I’m embracing it, and starting where my heart remembers most vividly.

Consider this a curated “flashback of meaning and moments”—a highlight reel told just as my memory recalls it: moments that left their imprint, laughter that lingered, and experiences too special not to share.

The Upstander Legacy Celebration—Standing Up for Love

A few weeks ago, I had the privilege of attending the Tyler Clementi Foundation’s Upstander Legacy Celebration—and what an unforgettable night it was. We begin where we should: with courage.

The room was filled with fierce advocates fighting for safer schools, workplaces, and faith communities—people who don’t just talk about change; they live it. Every hand I shook, every story I heard, every reminder that kindness is a choice that I carried home like a gift.

This year’s honorees embodied the best of our community. Wilson Cruz was celebrated for his decades of advocacy for LGBTQ+ youth and racial justice. Marti Gould Cummings, beloved drag artist, political powerhouse, and tireless defender of queer spaces, reminded us that activism can be equal parts glitter and grit.

The charismatic Steven Guy helmed the evening beautifully as Master of Ceremonies, while Scott Lowell, forever adored from Queer as Folk, kept the live auction spirited and generous. I was seated with Wilson and Scott, two inspiring men who’ve each shaped queer storytelling in their own remarkable ways.

At one point, Scott and I slipped into nostalgic mischief, pulling out photos of us from a Showtime party in April 2004. 

There we were: dark hair, youthful glow, perhaps a touch more collagen. Just as we were admiring our former brunette selves, a gentleman leaned over and quipped, “At least you have hair.” We all burst into laughter—because sometimes the most healing activism is letting levity lead the room.

And throughout the evening, Jane Clementi stood at the heart of it all—a powerful reminder of why this mission matters. Her grace, resilience, and unwavering love for her son Tyler continue to guide this work forward.

It was a celebration of courage and a renewal of resilience—proof that standing up for dignity, difference, and one another is how we honor those no longer here to stand beside us.

An Evening of Music, Memory, and Magic with Rex Reed and Friends

Eric and I had the great pleasure of attending Rex Reed: Great Songs from the Movies at the Musical Instrument Museum in Phoenix, a brilliant evening celebrating film, storytelling, and the unforgettable melodies that shaped generations. The night featured radiant performances by Ann Hampton Callaway, Nicolas King, and Maud Hixson, with the incomparable Tedd Firth at the piano—all guided by the wit, charm, and insight of my dear friend, Rex Reed.

The morning of the show, I shared a van ride from Tucson to Phoenix with my longtime friend of more than three decades, Ann Hampton Callaway, and her wife, Kari—an unexpected delight. 

Listening to Ann reflect on music, life, and love felt like being invited into the heart of her creative soul. During the ride, she even called a friend whose family was struggling with a terminal illness and softly sang their favorite song a cappella—a gentle reminder that Ann’s artistry is as healing as it is extraordinary.

That evening, Eric and I attended with our friend Austin Kennedy, surrounded by music, memory, and laughter. It was one of those rare nights that felt both intimate and timeless, a beautiful celebration of artistry and the golden age of cinema, brought to life by some of the very best.

Where Art Becomes Activism: A Night at the Leslie-Lohman Museum

From activism to art that is activism. I was deeply honored to attend the VIP Opening Night of David Wojnarowicz: Arthur Rimbaud in New York at the Leslie-Lohman Museum of Art—a raw, moving exploration of identity, visibility, and defiance.

The evening before, Eric and I were invited to An Evening at the Home of Charles Leslie, celebrating the museum’s forthcoming exhibition. The salon-like gathering—in Mr. Leslie’s legendary SoHo apartment—felt like stepping into a living piece of queer history. 

The air was charged with creativity and courage, surrounded by works that were both sensual and subversive. Among the classically inspired nudes was one of my friends Serg Shepard—a model, photographer, and adult film star—whose presence added a touch of cinematic glamour to the evening. Nearby, a small table displayed intricately carved marble and stone sculptures of the male form.

The art felt intimate, unabashed, and vividly alive. Our reconnection with the museum came through our dear friends Diane Felicio, Ph.D., President of the Board of Trustees, and her wife Jan Donley, a proud University of Arizona Wildcat. We met them again at an alumni event we hosted in our Chelsea home with Alain-Philippe Durand, Dorrance Dean of the College of Humanities. 

To experience Art as Resistance alongside Diane and the exhibition’s curator, Antonio Sergio Bessa, and to see the museum—an integral part of our community—standing boldly for truth, love, and liberation reminded me that art doesn’t just reflect life, it demands that we live it more fully.

Rex Reed at The Polo Bar: A New York Night Worth Savoring

When your dear friend Rex Reed celebrates a birthday, you show up. And when he says the only place, he wants to go is his favorite New York restaurant, The Polo Bar, you absolutely show up.

Eric and I have been celebrating Rex’s birthdays for decades—from his 60th to his 70th, his 80th, and now, as he rounds the corner toward his 90th. He’s a lifelong friend, one of those rare constants whose presence feels like both history and home.

There’s something timeless about an evening at Ralph Lauren’s signature Manhattan restaurant; golden light, impeccable service, and that warm hum of conversation that feels like old New York at its finest. To celebrate Rex there, surrounded by laughter, storytelling, and the comforting elegance of the city we love, was pure joy.

Every seasoned regular knows there’s only one person to call for an unforgettable evening: Nelly Moudime, the restaurant’s celebrated maître d’ at the heart of The Polo Bar. Her warmth and poise make every guest feel like part of the Polo family.

And then, of course, the food—perfectly chilled martinis, buttery Dover sole, that iconic Polo Bar burger, and the indulgent Gruyère-crusted popovers that could easily be a meal themselves. It was an evening worthy of a legend, and a dear friend whose life, laughter, and love of good food always inspire us.

Velvet Notes and Vintage Nights: Ann Hampton Callaway at 42 Below

It was a rare month, we had a double dose of Ann Hampton Callaway, this time in New York at 42 Below. Her beautiful wife and fellow Tucsonan, Kari, sat just behind us with the beloved Jane Clementi.

At our table sat our dear friend Rick Bingham, an Ann Hampton Callaway virgin, which made the evening even more special. I was giddy to introduce him to Ann’s velvet-rich voice. I’ve often said Ann could sing the ingredients off a cereal box and I would still weep; and I mean it.

At 42 Below, she gave us jazz, joy, and that soulful resonance that lingers long after the last note fades, pure magic, shared with her brilliant musical director, Ted Firth, one of Broadway’s most respected collaborators. 

It was one of those old-school cabaret nights that felt like stepping back in time, an intimate, underground club where a truly versatile singer carries you through the Great American Songbook, sprinkled with jazz and heart.

StartOut Awards 2025: A Celebration of Courage, Community, and Creation

There were far too many highlights to fit into one column, but I’ll end with a few that deserve special mention.

The 2025 StartOut Awards in New York was a radiant celebration of LGBTQ+ entrepreneurship and innovation, led by CEO Brian Richardson and hosted by the irrepressible Heidi N. Closet. The evening brought together an inspiring mix of leaders, including retired Lt. Col. Jennifer N. Pritzker, the nation’s first openly transgender military officer, whose presence underscored the power of authenticity and service.

Set against the vibrant pulse of the city, the event honored trailblazing founders and changemakers redefining the future of inclusive business. 

From heartfelt speeches to moments of pure joy, the StartOut Awards captured what it means to lead with purpose, and to build a world where every entrepreneur has the opportunity to thrive.

Celebrating Friendship: From Gramercy Glamour to Hudson Valley Charm

Milestone birthdays are always special, but there’s something deeply moving about being included in a friend’s big one. I always feel so fortunate to share those moments, as they speak to the kind of friendship built on years of laughter, trust, and love.

This season, I was lucky enough to celebrate two remarkable friends—each in their own unique way.

First came Brian Friedman’s Fabulous 50th, an unforgettable evening of sparkle, style, and joy. Held at Dear Irving on Gramercy, the night shimmered with laughter, timeless cocktails, and Brian’s signature flair for bringing people together. It was elegant and vintage-inspired, filled with friends, family, and colleagues from every chapter of his life. 

More than a party, it was a glowing reminder of the power of friendship and the beauty of celebrating life in full color.

Then came Phil Berg’s 60th, a milestone set against the breathtaking backdrop of Beacon, New York—a Hudson Valley gem that blends small-town charm with a vibrant modern arts and dining scene. 

Just an easy train ride from the city on the Metro-North Hudson Line, Beacon offered the perfect setting for a destination celebration. From its creative spirit to its scenic views, the town reflected everything that makes Phil so beloved: warm, genuine, and full of life.

Two birthdays, two beautiful friends, and one shared truth—life’s real luxury is the chance to celebrate the people who make it brighter.

Closing on a High Note: A Joyful Night at Ginger Twinsies

The last event I’ll include in this column was a night out with our longtime friend Scott Pask, the extraordinarily talented Tony Award–winning set designer, for an evening at Ginger Twinsies, the 80-minute off-Broadway spoof of The Parent Trap. 

Written and directed by Kevin Zak and produced by Preston Whiteway, Jenny Steingart, and Mandy Hackett, the show was pure, inventive fun—witty, sharp, and full of heart.

From laughter that wouldn’t quit to those shared glances that come from years of friendship, the evening was one of those quintessential New York nights: creative, unexpected, and filled with energy. It was the perfect way to close a month overflowing with connection, art, and joy—a true celebration of friendship and the creative spirit that keeps this city (and my heart) alive.

The Beauty of Connection: Living Life in Full Color

In the end, this month was a reminder that life’s richest moments aren’t always the grandest; they’re the ones shared with friends, surrounded by art, love, and the beautiful chaos of being fully alive.