Out with Dr. Bill – NYC Eleganza. Aspen Ski Week. And Meet the Neubie

As I reflect on the whirlwind start to the year, I can't help but feel grateful for the moments that brought joy, connection, and a renewed sense of energy–each one a reminder of the people, places, and experiences that make life so rich.

Reel Connections: The NYFCC's 90th Anniversary

January kicked off with a flurry of activity, starting with the New York Film Critics Circle Gala. We were once again the guests of our longtime friend Rex Reed, the oldest member of this elite group of New York journalists. Held at Tao Downtown, the elegant evening celebrated the NYFCC's 90th anniversary with a special program highlighting the importance of film preservation and the organization's storied legacy.

The night was a whirlwind of reconnecting with friends and nominees, including Adrien Brody, Kieran Culkin, Claire Danes, and Guy Pearce. As Guy grabbed my iPhone to snap a selfie, I reminded him of our first meeting at the 2000 Toronto International Film Festival, where we sat together at George Christie's famous celebrity luncheon at the Four Seasons.

That legendary, invitation-only gathering epitomized Hollywood glamour, bringing together A-list actors, directors, and media personalities for candid conversations. Reflecting on that iconic tradition made seeing Pearce at the NYFCC Gala even more special.

Loft Party Elegance in Chelsea

The NYFCC Awards Gala was followed by two unforgettable nights that reminded me why I love living in New York City. The first was a short walk to Byron LaMotte's stunning Chelsea loft for a post-New Year's cocktail party. Eric and I always enjoy parties in the neighborhood, and this one didn't disappoint. The moment we stepped through Byron's door, we were surrounded by familiar faces and plenty of new ones–some of whom, to our surprise, live just blocks away. That's the magic of New York: realizing you've been unknowingly sharing the same sidewalks with people for years. Byron's home was pure Architectural Digest chic–masculine, stylish, and impeccably designed. I couldn't help but snap a covert photo of his bathroom to show my architect. "Just duplicate this," I'll say. The bartenders were charming, the hors d'oeuvres were delicious, and the evening had an effortless sophistication.

A highlight of the night was catching up with Frank DiLella and his brother Chris. Frank, as always, was a magnetic presence. An Emmy-winning journalist and host of On Stage on Spectrum News NY1, Frank shared his excitement about his latest project–a PBS documentary on the historic Palace Theatre. He described interviewing Broadway legends who had graced its stage and teased the documentary's release in a few months.

Hearing Frank talk about his work reminded me of his rare ability to blend journalism and the arts with such passion and insight.

Elmo, Aleks, and a Jacket to Remember

The next night, just two days before Eric and I were off to Aspen Gay Ski Week, I met my talented friend Aleks Zestali at Elmo. Aleks, the creative force behind the fashion label Oro-Jin, showed me a sequined puffer parka he had designed–a shimmering gold masterpiece I was planning to wear in Aspen. The jacket was windproof, waterproof, and filled with 100% goose down–a stunning combination of fashion and function. As he handed it to me, I joked about leaving a trail of sequins in my wake. Aleks just laughed, assuring me the coat was as durable as it was dazzling.

The fit was flawless, and I couldn't have been more thrilled. Aleks has an unmatched talent for combining comfort, practicality, and high fashion, and this jacket was no exception. As I left Elmo, clutching my new treasure, I couldn't stop thinking about his signature sequined tuxedos. With Aleks' designs, one piece is never enough.

Aspen Gay Ski Week: Fun, Fashion, and Philanthropy

After a chaotic journey to Aspen–including canceled flights, rerouting from LaGuardia to Newark, hauling seven bags through baggage claim only to recheck them, and a missing bag that took two days to arrive–Eric and I finally made it to the snow-covered beauty of Aspen, Colorado. Stepping into the crisp mountain air, all the travel drama melted away, and I couldn't help but feel excited to be back for the 48th annual Aspen Gay Ski Week (AGSW).

AGSW was as magical as ever, blending Aspen's stunning peaks with a vibrant celebration of community, inclusivity, and fun.

As the nation's oldest week-long LGBTQ+ ski event, it continues to live up to its legendary reputation. It's also one of the largest LGBTQ+ non-profit fundraisers in Aspen, raising funds for AspenOUT, a local nonprofit dedicated to anti-bullying initiatives and promoting tolerance.

From skiing to lively après-ski parties, the week was packed with activities for everyone.

One of the standout moments was reconnecting with my longtime friend Cheyenne Jackson and meeting his husband, Jason Landau, for the first time. Cheyenne and I have shared over two decades of friendship, and catching up in such a stunning setting felt like a gift. His two sold-out performances with Theatre Aspen were the talk of the town, and it was clear he was captivating both audiences and everyone around him.

The nightly après-ski gatherings at the Limelight Hotel provided the perfect mix of cocktails, conversation, and camaraderie. I loved catching up with friends like Shen, who flew in from the UK, Robert Grunnah from Austin, and neighbors from New York, like Anthony Legouri, among about 90 others who made the trip from Manhattan. With drinks by Diageo, wine from La Crema, and rehydration courtesy of Everybody Water, these evenings were as lively as they were refreshing.

Barry's high-energy HIIT classes at their sleek Little Nell pop-up offered a way to balance the indulgence of the champagne-soaked Cloud Nine mountaintop party. Eric, our longtime friend Rob Rosch (whom regular readers of my column might remember from our Hawaii trips), and Ken Koen with his buddy Allan Woods dove right into the Veuve Clicquot-fueled revelry, though they were sworn to secrecy about the details.

Skiing into Cloud Nine and soaking in the decadent atmosphere with breathtaking views felt like stepping into a dream–and it's no surprise this event has become a hallmark of AGSW.

The Downhill Ski Boys

One of my favorite events of the week was the Downhill Costume Contest on Aspen Mountain, hosted by the hilariously sharp and quick-witted Mariam T–San Diego's self-proclaimed crankiest drag queen and a longtime event emcee. Bundled in my sparkling Oro-Jin puffer with its detachable fur-lined hood, I was ready for the snow. Judging the contest was an absolute blast–Mariam had the crowd roaring with laughter as skiers and snowboarders raced down the slopes in their most outrageous costumes.

The panel of judges featured a lively mix of personalities, including Club Kid Griffin Maxwell Brooks, adding even more flair to the spirited competition. The contestants did not disappoint. Snowmass Tourism wowed with a jaw-dropping Britney Spears tribute, earning their seventh consecutive win after a thrilling dance-off with Aspen Chamber Resort Association's "Wicked'-themed performance. Meanwhile, Montucky Cold Snacks brought some Western-inspired flair to secure third place.

The best part? All winners donated their prizes back to AspenOUT, perfectly capturing the event's generous and philanthropic spirit, which makes Aspen Gay Ski Week so special.

Whether cheering on the costume contest, reconnecting with friends, or soaking in the glamour of Cloud Nine, AGSW was a joyful celebration of creativity and community. It's easy to see why this cherished tradition has stood the test of time–I'm already counting down to next year.

Neubie + U Gym = Game Changer

Almost as soon as I landed in New York, I made my way to David Barton's U Gym in Chelsea–a vibrant, high-energy fitness space that seamlessly combines luxury with innovation. What sets U Gym apart for me, though, isn't just the sleek atmosphere or advanced equipment–it's the Neubie machine, which has completely redefined my approach to fitness. David himself introduced me to the Neubie (Neuro-Bio-Electric Stimulator), and I was hooked from the start. This groundbreaking device uses direct current (DC) electrical stimulation to engage muscles in a way that feels natural yet incredibly powerful. Unlike traditional stimulators, the Neubietargets deeper layers of muscle tissue, amplifying strength, endurance, and mobility while also aiding recovery.

For me, the Neubie takes workouts to a whole new level. It enhances muscle recruitment, making every movement more efficient, and helps pinpoint areas that need extra focus. Whether I'm powering through a tough session or recovering afterward, it's become an essential part of my routine. The increased blood flow, reduced pain, and faster recovery it offers are absolute game-changers.

Discovering this state-of-the-art device at this stage in my life has made my Chelsea workout experience even more special. It's more than fitness–it's a revelation and a reminder that there's always a way to push yourself further, no matter where you are in your fitness journey.

Aspen Recovery, Skin-Deep at Maison Esthetics

My post-Aspen recovery wasn't just about my body and muscles–it was about my face, too. After days in the cold, my skin felt dry, tired, and in serious need of some love. So, the next day, I made a quick stop at Maison Esthetics on 433 5th Ave, which I lovingly call my beauty sanctuary. A few treatments with Dr. Kevin Guzman Aguilar and his amazing team had me feeling refreshed and revived in no time.

Dr. Kevin isn't just the hottest guy in skincare (though he definitely is); he's also an incredibly skilled practitioner. By the time I walked out of there, my skin felt hydrated, my face looked brighter, and I didn't feel like I'd just spent a week battling the elements. Maison Esthetics is one of those places that just makes you feel like yourself again–a perfect way to wrap up the whirlwind start to the year.

Finding Renewal in the Moments That Matter

As I reflect on this dynamic start to the year, I'm reminded of the joy, connection, and renewal that come from embracing the people, places, and experiences that make life richer. Whether on the slopes of Aspen, the streets of New York, or at my beauty sanctuary, this journey has been nothing short of extraordinary–and I can't wait to see what's next.