December 26, 2024
Out With Dr. Bill: As 2024 Winds Down, the Celebrations Heat Up
Dr. William Kapfer READ TIME: 11 MIN.
Along the way, we've toasted to leadership and progress at Out Leadership, embraced history and community with the Gay Real Estate Group, and witnessed the power of generosity at the Maestro Cares Gala. These events remind us that the true magic of the season lies in the spirit of togetherness and giving back.
Holiday Cheer Kicks Off at Rick Bingham's Festive Le Zie Cocktail Party
The season kicked off in style with a beautiful cocktail party hosted by my bestie, Rick Bingham, at Le Zie, our favorite Chelsea neighborhood trattoria. Rick took over the back bar, which has its own entrance on 20th Street, creating an intimate yet lively atmosphere. The food at Le Zie is always a delightful mix of elegance and comfort, grounded in classic Venetian cuisine. My go-to dish, the beef Bolognese, is a staple for me, and the restaurant's old-world service combined with an imaginative menu never fails to impress. Known for its generously poured martinis, excellent wine selection, and warm neighborhood vibe, the bar set the perfect stage for Rick's gathering.
Rick brought together such a wonderful group of friends to toast the season, and the sense of joy and camaraderie filled the air. The restaurant pulled out all the stops with an amalgam of cheeses and cured meats. At first, I doubted the boys could finish the towering pile of prosciutto, but in true holiday spirit, every last bite was devoured. It was a memorable night, and a perfect start to December's festivities.
Connecting and Celebrating with Out Leadership
A heartfelt thank you to Todd Sears and the Out Leadership team for hosting a fantastic holiday party in your stunning Chelsea loft. It was more than a gathering–it felt like a reunion with friends driving change in the LGBTQ+ community.
I loved reconnecting with leaders like Kevin Jennings from Lambda Legal and Andres Wydler of StartOut; and as a special bonus, it was such a joy to catch up with our Fire Island family, who make the Pines so extraordinary.
The evening was filled with highlights: Clinton Foster's brilliant Christmas classics, cozy spiked cider, and inspiring conversations with trailblazers like Mila Jam, a celebrated performer and Out Leadership's Senior Advisor for Global Transgender Initiatives. Mila's energy and passion shone as we discussed holiday plans and the critical challenges facing our community, including the ongoing scrutiny on DEI efforts–a fight we must continue together.
Todd's vision has made Out Leadership a global force for LGBTQ+ equality on Wall Street and in business.
Gay Real Estate Group Brings Holiday Cheer to Gramercy
The next night, we attended an incredible holiday party at the Player's Club at 16 Gramercy Park, hosted by the Gay Real Estate Group (GREG). GREG is a dynamic network of LGBTQ+ real estate professionals and allies, bringing together agents, brokers, developers, and other industry experts. It's one of Eric's favorite organizations, and it's easy to see why–their focus on fostering community and collaboration among LGBTQ+ professionals is both inspiring and deeply resonant.
The GREG party turned out to be a truly fun event, featuring a full open bar and outstanding food that was out of this world–from prime rib to creamy macaroni and cheese. Beyond the festivities, it was a celebration of connection, showcasing the power of a shared mission to uplift and unite a vibrant professional community.
Chelsea Charm Shines at Rob Smith and Rod Grozier's Soiree
Quick drive-by to Rob Smith, CEO and Founder of The Phluid Project, and his striking husband Rod Grozier's "Holiday Soiree." Like the hosts, the apartment, guests, and energy were effortlessly stylish and sophisticated, with a hip, old-school club vibe. The low lighting and holiday tunes set the tone for a perfectly groovy evening.
The highlight for me? A conversation with Cafeteria co-founders Monica Novo and Stacy Pisone–partners in both life and business and integral to the Chelsea neighborhood for over two decades. Cafeteria, one of my go-to haunts (it doesn't hurt that it's practically in my backyard), is just one of the hot spots this dynamic duo owns. They've also revitalized the iconic Empire Diner, seamlessly blending its untouched art-modern exterior with a sleek, contemporary interior–a perfect nod to Chelsea's ever-evolving charm.
Twists, Turns, and Toes: A Memorable Night with Dr. Brad Schaeffer
Not all celebrations were downtown–one of the most memorable was hosted by my friend and foot doctor, Dr. Brad Schaeffer. You might recognize Brad from TLC's "My Feet Are Killing Me," the reality show where every step is a plot twist and every foot tells a story (or a pun-filled pain in the sole!).
The party, held at his office, Central Park Sole, on the northwest corner of West 85th Street and Central Park West, was effortlessly cool. It brought together an eclectic mix of friends from different chapters of Brad's life, creating a true tapestry of celebration.
I first met Brad on Fire Island through my bestie Rick, never imagining that one day I'd be sitting in his office as a patient. Funny how life brings things full circle–sometimes with a twisted ankle in tow!
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.
A Night of Gods and Grapes: James and Stephen's Merry Mythology Party Wows Guest
Eric and I ended last week with an unforgettable night at James LaForce and Stephen Henderson's annual bacchanal; this year's theme, "Merry Mythology." Held at the iconic Judson Memorial Church, near Gould Plaza and opposite Washington Square Park, this over-the-top celebration of all things Greco-Roman was as dazzling as ever, filled with Greek gods, goddesses, and cheeky "Homer-otic" costumes that brought the theme to life.
While we kept it simple this year in Hermes-inspired costumes–winged helmets and caduceus in hand–it was clear many guests went all out. From full head-to-toe ensembles–that looked like they walked straight out of ancient Greece–to intricate, jaw-dropping designs, the creativity in the room was unmatched. Two costumes that stood out were a drag grape duo–one a golden Chardonnay, the other a deep purple Cabernet–shimmering in lamé and stealing the show.
Adding to the revelry were several hot guys styled as human wine bottles, complete with grape-adorned headwear, cascading grape leaf tattoos, and cocktail tanks strapped to their backs. They were an instant hit, shooting margarita-inspired drinks from hoses and posing for endless photos with delighted guests. Dubbed "Dionysus Deluxe," after the Greek god of wine and revelry, they embodied the playful, indulgent spirit of the event.
"Merry Mythology" is just one of the many themed annual events that Eric and I eagerly anticipate. It was a perfect night of fun, creativity, and community, and I couldn't be more grateful to James and