Out With Dr. Bill: As 2024 Winds Down, the Celebrations Heat Up

A Toast to Style, Generosity, and Dolly: Inside James and David's Glittering Night

From an uptown office to a palatial apartment downtown, the celebrations continued at the newly renovated home of James and David. I've been fortunate to visit some spectacular New York City apartments, but this one was next-level–it felt straight out of Architectural Digest. I won't guess the square footage, but it felt like it stretched for acres, filled with stunning furniture, impeccable details, and beautiful men of all ages.

James and David have an incredible gift for curating unforgettable gatherings, always bringing together the city's most inspiring, accomplished, and genuinely kind people. The energy is always welcoming, with a shared love for life's finer things and giving back to the community.

The highlight? A dazzling performance by Brooklyn-based Dolly Parton impersonator and "Insta Drag Queen" Kanga Roo, aka Miss Gay Beer 2020. Decked out in flawless white mesh bellbottoms, a silver belt, red butterflies strategically placed, and nails to match, she had us hooked from "Jolene." Absolutely genius!

A Holiday Tradition of Heart and Joy: The 39th SAGE Toys Party

The SAGE Toys Party is always the highlight of my holiday season–a night of connection, celebration, and giving back. This year, the evening began with a pre-party hosted by Brent Miller, P&G's Global LGBTQ+ Leader, at Barracuda Lounge. Brent's cocktail gathering has become a beloved tradition, bringing friends together to kick off the festivities in style.

From there, we made our way to Pier Sixty at Chelsea Piers for the 39th Annual SAGE Toys Party. The event honored the legacy of its founder, Robbie Browne, whose name and spirit continue to inspire this incredible celebration. The room was alive with energy–Sexy Santas, festive cheer, and unforgettable moments like Billy Porter lighting up the red carpet.

Just days before heading to London for his role as Emcee in "Cabaret at the Kit Kat Club," Billy brought his signature joy and charisma to the evening.

Eric and I always enjoy capturing the experience in the event's branded black-and-white photos, taken at photo booths scattered throughout the venue. Watching those photos–filled with laughter and joy–projected onto giant screens suspended from the ceiling added to the magic of the night and made the memories feel larger than life.

The true heart of the event was its mission: raising funds to support SAGE's vital work advocating for LGBTQ+ older adults. As I stood among friends and new faces, I felt a deep sense of gratitude for this community and the legacy we continue to honor. It wasn't just a party–it was a celebration of giving back and ensuring dignity and respect for those who paved the way.

I'm already looking forward to next year and the opportunity to gather again for this incredible cause. If you've never been, mark your calendar–it's a night you won't want to miss.