Out With Dr. Bill: Birthdays! And an Electrifying Evening with Trailblazer Beverly Johnson

My week began with an electrifying celebration that set the city abuzz –Broadway sensation Seth Sykes's 40th birthday bash. Renowned as one of New York's most adored nightclub performers, Seth's magnetic talent has rightfully earned him the esteemed title of "the best male singer of his generation" by Theatre Scene. The anticipation was high as Broadway's finest, including actors, producers, and lyricists, converged below the dazzling lights of the Hilton Hotel on 26th street in Chelsea to pay tribute to Seth.

The venue was alive with excitement as many Broadway friends, Seth's partner in life and music Nicolas King, and Erik Botcher, member of the 3rd district of the New York City Council, gathered to honor Seth, and the night felt like a grand pageant, with each performer sharing their craft and filling the space with awe and inspiration. From soulful ballads to show-stopping performances, the night was a whirlwind of entertainment that left an indelible mark on everyone in attendance. It was a celebration fit for a star – a night to remember in the bustling heart of New York City.

Cheers to Joe Nucci's 30th

The celebration continued the next evening as we gathered at the stylish apartment of our close friend, psychotherapist Joe Nucci, to celebrate his "Roaring Thirties" 30th birthday bash. Laughter filled the air, mingling with the sound of glasses clinking, as old friends reunited, and new connections blossomed. Many of us had recently met at Aspen Gay Ski Week, adding an extra layer of camaraderie to the evening. It was a night brimming with laughter, unforgettable memories, and the promise of more joy in the weeks ahead.

Jon Tilli's Meaningful Birthday Fundraiser

In a serendipitous turn of events, another friend, Jon Tilli, chose the same night to celebrate his 41st birthday with a twist - a fundraiser for GLSEN, an organization dedicated to ending discrimination in schools based on sexual orientation and gender identity. Held at the historic Stonewall Inn, the event drew a crowd of compassionate souls who not only came to honor Jon but also to support an important cause. The night was brimming with warmth, laughter, and a shared commitment to making the world a more inclusive and accepting place. As we celebrated milestones and cherished friendships, we were reminded of the power of coming together to uplift others.

Socializing at Elmo and Le Zie

As the week unfolded, I found myself immersed in the vibrant atmosphere of Elmo, surrounded by familiar faces such as Rick Bingham, Eric Baker, Stephen Tracy, and Lèr Simoneaux. Amidst the clinks of martini glasses and the hum of conversation, new connections sparked, and stories flowed freely, filling the air with laughter and camaraderie. It was a lively happy hour, the type that my first friend in New York, Rick Bingham, often pulls together, where every moment felt like a cherished memory in the making.
Later, the evening took on a more intimate tone as I joined my friend Scott Pask for a cozy dinner at Le Zie, my favorite neighborhood eatery for Rigatoni alla Bolognese and a Caesar Salad. Nestled in the warmth of good company, we shared deeper conversations and exchanged experiences, creating a space for genuine connection and reflection. It was a moment of quiet intimacy amidst the bustling energy of the city, a reminder of the beauty found in shared moments and meaningful conversations.