Where Do Gays Retire Podcast Mark Goldstein

Rick retired on Dec 31 2023 with 35 years and 21 Emmy Awards under his belt as a producer, writer, and director. 
He began his work as a public service when he was elected as Dane County WI County Board Supervisor for which he will aim for reelection on 4/2/24. 
He is an advocate for the disenfranchised serving as a CASA volunteer in 3 states, as co-chair of Pride In Prevention, focused on harm reduction within the queer PWUD community, and as a fierce feminist.
He also writes regularly for The Word In Season, a daily Christian devotional that is translated into 30 languages. He lives in Madison, WI having moved there from Shreveport, LA.
Summary
Rick Rose, a retired producer, writer, and director, discusses his move from Shreveport, Louisiana to Madison, Wisconsin. He shares his reasons for choosing Madison and talks about the climate and amount of snow in the area. Rick also discusses the LGBTQ+ community in Madison and the absence of a specific gayborhood.
He highlights the growth and economy of Madison, the ease of making friends, and the presence of arts and culture in the city.
Rick also mentions the local food and dining scene in Madison. Madison, Wisconsin has a vibrant arts and entertainment scene, with a thriving comedy community and a diverse range of performances and events.
The city also has a strong public transportation system, with options for biking, electric transportation, and plans for an Amtrak center.
Healthcare in Madison is highly regarded, with access to quality providers and affordable insurance options.
While crime exists, Madison is considered a safe city overall. The city also has a significant Native American community and is working towards preserving and promoting Native American culture and tourism.
Takeaways
Madison, Wisconsin offers a unique blend of urban amenities and natural beauty, making it an attractive place to retire.
The city experiences a wide range of weather, including hot and humid summers and snowy winters.
While Madison does not have a designated gayborhood, it is known for its progressive and inclusive community.
The city has a thriving arts and culture scene, with opportunities to enjoy live music, theater, and visual arts.
The cost of living in Madison can be high, with average home prices and rental rates above the national average. 
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Dwayne was born/raised in the northern Utah area (Ogden, north of SLC) and also spent time in southern California (Oxnard)
He was educated in Utah through high school, and went to Weber State University, majoring in Architecture, but discontinued his education. 
Raised in the area's predominant religion (Latter Day Saints, Mormon) Served a church mission to So. Korea. Has since left organized religion.
They have been in a relationship since 1987, They were legally married in Oakland CA, when it was legal in California and then again In Salt Lake after the federal recognition of same-sex marriage.
His employment is in Fire Protection and he worked in the Salt Lake area for 8yr and currently in the Oakland/San Francisco CA area (27 years) but remains living in SLC Utah. 
He has lived in downtown Salt Lake since 2002. They recently sold our condo there and live in South Ogden. He enjoyed the SLC community/vibe since he's a city guy, but his husband is not so much!
He was part of the neighborhood community, and also supported the gay community but was not active/involved in the community.
He has already planned for retirement locations and has a tiny home in Littlefield AZ (a sliver of Arizona between Utah and Nevada) and a place in Baltimore MD. 
They chose to remain in Northern Utah for our primary retirement location.
Hobbies are camping (maybe considered glamping! LOL), hiking in summer, snowshoeing in winter, riding side by side in the mountains and desert, attending local car shows, local community festivals, small venue music concerts, and evenings with friends enjoying dinner and wine.
I'm still working, but I enjoy traveling when we can (when I can) to different places around the country and sometimes the world. 
Salt Lake City
Salt Lake City, often shortened to Salt Lake or SLC, is the capital and most populous city of Utah, United States. It is the seat of Salt Lake County, the most populous county in Utah. 
Salt Lake City, state capital and seat (1849) of Salt Lake County, north-central Utah, U.S., situated on the Jordan River at the southeastern end of Great Salt Lake.
Summary of cost of living in Salt Lake City, UT, United States: A family of four estimated monthly costs are 3,766.4$ without rent. A single person's estimated monthly costs are 1,047.8$ without rent. Salt Lake City is 30.6% less expensive than New York (without rent). 

"Meet Kurt Becker, a seasoned public health professional with a rich journey of dedication and impact. Originally from Ithaca, NY, Kurt earned dual degrees in broadcasting and developmental psychology from Tompkins Cortland Community College. After moving to Las Cruces, New Mexico, he finished courses at New Mexico State University and graduated from SUNY Cortland in 1994 with a bachelor of science in psychology.
Kurt's commitment to community health began in Las Cruces, where he served as a Health Educator for Families and Youth. Notably, he initiated an LGBTQ+ youth group, 'The Next Rainbow Generation,' orchestrating remarkable initiatives such as raising funds to showcase the largest ever NAMES Project AIDS memorial quilt in southern New Mexico, spanning over 15,000 square feet. Kurt and his youth also pioneered 'Not Your Mom's Prom,' one of the area's first alternative proms.
 In 1999, Kurt's journey led him to Austin, Texas, where he assumed the role of the City's Coordinator for Ryan White funds, overseeing the distribution of over $4 million annually. In 2006, he became the immunization manager for the City of Austin and Travis County. He successfully secured a $12 million grant to provide easy and free access to vaccines for at-risk adults.
In 2021 Kurt retired from the City of Austin and returned to his roots in Ithaca with his husband of 15 years, Jose. Nestled on 1.5 green acres, they share their home with their two dogs, Molly and Heidi." 
**Ithaca, New York Quick Facts:**
- **Location:**
 - Located in the Finger Lakes region of New York, in the northeastern United States.
 - Approximately 225 miles northwest of New York City 
- **Geography:**
 - Surrounded by picturesque natural landscapes, including gorges, waterfalls, and Cayuga Lake.
 - Home to Cornell University and Ithaca College.
- **Climate:**
 - Experiences a humid continental climate with cold winters and warm summers.
 - Average winter temperatures range from -1 to -8°C (30 to 18°F), while summer temperatures range from 14 to 27°C (57 to 80°F).
- **Cost of Living:**
 - The cost of living is moderate, with housing costs being a significant factor.
 The average price of a single-family home varies but may range from $250,000 to $400,000, depending on the neighborhood and size.
- **Arts and Culture:**
 - Vibrant arts scene with numerous galleries, theaters, and cultural events.
 - Hosts festivals, including the Ithaca Festival and the Finger Lakes International Film Festival.
- **LGBTQ+ Community:**
 - Ithaca is known for its LGBTQ+ inclusivity and progressive values.
 - Supportive community with LGBTQ+ events and organizations.
- **Healthcare:**
 - Access to healthcare through local hospitals and clinics.
 - Presence of medical facilities associated with Cornell University.
- **Crime and Safety:**
 - Generally considered a safe city with a low crime rate.

Kevin grew up in the Detroit area. He attended college at Wayne State University and acquired his  Bachelor’s Degree in Business Management and Entrepreneurship. He started working with McDonald’s Restaurants as a franchisee in 1988 as an hourly crew person and worked his up to Director of Operations and Managing Partner. 
He has a great life partner and best friend, and they have been together for 22 years. In 2005, they purchased a second home in the Saugatuck/Douglas area which they loved and enjoyed for years. In 2016, they both decided to permanently relocate to West, Michigan. After 27.5 years with McDonald’s, he pursued his interests in Real Estate…and has been enjoying it eight years later. They have two little Havanese Fur Babies, Rex (5 yrs old) and Max (4 years old). His partner and Kevin love spending time with their little fur babies, vacationing, sharing time with friends, meeting new people, and enjoying life to the best of their ability. If anyone should have any Real Estate needs, Kevin can help anywhere in Michigan, and even assist anywhere in the US.
Best wishes for happiness, good health, and good/memorable times.
Kevin Putnam…with Kevin & Sarah, Coastal Living Advisors Email is… KevinandSarah@CoastalLivingAdvisors.com Website is… https://www.coastallivingadvisors.com Contact Number is… (586)524-3462.
Saugatuck/Douglas, Michigan
Location: Situated on the eastern shore of Lake Michigan, in Allegan County, Michigan. Nickname: "The Art Coast of Michigan" due to its thriving art scene and numerous art galleries. Population: Around 865 residents (city of Saugatuck) but the area attracts many tourists throughout the year.Beaches: Award-winning beaches with soft sand and clear waters, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports. Outdoor activities: Hiking, biking, kayaking, canoeing, stand-up paddleboarding, and fishing are popular options. Wineries and breweries: Sample local wines and craft beers at the many wineries and breweries in the area. Art scene: Explore the numerous art galleries, studios, and museums showcasing the work of local and regional artists.Festivals and events: Throughout the year, Saugatuck/Douglas hosts a variety of festivals and events, including the Saugatuck Art Fair, the Saugatuck Boat Show, and the Douglas Winter Fest. Dining: Enjoy a variety of restaurants, cafes, and bars offering fresh, seasonal cuisine. Shopping: Find unique gifts and souvenirs at the many shops and boutiques in Saugatuck/Douglas. Accommodations: Choose from a variety of hotels, resorts, vacation rentals, and campgrounds to suit your needs and budget.
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If you enjoy these podcasts, please make a donation by clicking the coffee cup on any page of our website www.wheredogaysretire.com. Each cup of coffee costs $5 and goes towards bringing you these podcasts in the future.
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Marc Goldberg 
Dog Trainer and author
Marc  Goldberg had his first paying client while still in junior high school and printed his first business card in 1975 at the age of 17.  Marc first competed in an American Kennel Club obedience ring at age 12 with his first dog, a Sheltie named Gus.  They won High in Trial, beating out nearly 100 dogs and they won a Dog World Magazine Award that same year.
Marc became the youngest voting member of the Philadelphia Dog Training Club. He trained dogs for private clients during college at Frankin & Marshall and taught classes for the college Adult Education program. 
Marc became a full-time professional dog trainer in the Chicago area. He served as president of the International Association of Canine Professionals.  
Now he writes books with the Monks of New Skete who are NY Times Best Selling authors. Together, they have coauthored three books:
LET DOGS BE DOGS
THE ART OF TRAINING YOUR DOG 
And their newly released book THE JOY OF PLAYING WITH YOUR DOG
Marc lives with his partner and their two beloved dogs.

Chicago, Illinois
 
- **Population:**
  - Approximately 2.7 million people (as of my last knowledge update in 2022).

- **Climate:**
  - Humid continental climate with distinct seasons.
  - Winters are cold and snowy, while summers are warm and humid.

- **Cost of Living:**
  - The cost of living in Chicago is generally higher than the national average.
  - Housing costs can be a significant factor, with variations between neighborhoods.

- **Transportation:**
  - Extensive public transportation system including buses and the "L" train system.
  - Major highways and expressways for commuting.
  - Bike-friendly city with a growing emphasis on cycling infrastructure.

- **LGBTQ+ Community:**
  - Chicago has a vibrant LGBTQ+ community with numerous events and organizations.
  - Boystown, in the Lakeview neighborhood, is one of the oldest and most famous LGBTQ+ neighborhoods in the U.S.

- **Arts and Culture:**
  - Home to numerous museums, including the Art Institute of Chicago and the Museum of Science and Industry.
  - The city has a rich architectural history, with iconic buildings like the Willis Tower and John Hancock Center.
  - A thriving theater scene, including the famous Chicago Broadway district.

- **Crime and Safety:**
  - Like many large cities, crime rates can vary by neighborhood.
  - Areas downtown and in the north side are generally considered safer, while some south and west side neighborhoods may have higher crime rates.
  - The city has implemented various initiatives to address crime and improve public safety.

These facts provide a general overview, and it's essential to note that the situation in any city can change, so it's a good idea to check for the most recent information if you're considering a move or an extended visit.

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Support the showIf you enjoy these podcasts, please make a donation by clicking the coffee cup on any page of our website www.wheredogaysretire.com. Each cup of coffee costs $5 and goes towards bringing you these podcasts in the future.

If you or you know someone who is interested in being a guest on the podcast, please contact me at mark@wheredogaysretire.com.

Please join our Where Do Gays Retire Facebook group at Where Do Gays Retire? | Facebook

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Dr. Michael Stracener is currently a Visiting Professor in social welfare policy at New Mexico State University in Las Cruces, New Mexico. He has 40-plus years’ experience as a clinical social worker and doctor of public health, retiring to Las Cruces in 2021 from Federal service with the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. Dr. Stracener is married to Larry King, a clinical social worker who also retired from Federal service with the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.  Due to the increasingly conservative political policies in their home state (Arkansas) and the overturning of a city ordinance in place to protect employees on the basis of gender identity and expression, the couple decided to leave Arkansas for retirement. Upon retiring from Federal service, the couple researched things such as economics, political climate, cost of living, access to healthcare, and climate in New Mexico, Arizona, California Colorado, and Oregon. The couple narrowed the options to California, Arizona, and New Mexico and made several trips to each to get a feel for where they wanted to live. Climate, moderate cost of living, progressive political climate, and the friendly and diverse cultural community drew them to Las Cruces, New Mexico The presence of a university or college in their retirement community was important and Las Cruces is the home of New Mexico State University (NM SU), a university with enrollment of around 22,000 students. Surrounded by beautiful mountains, Las Cruces looks very similar to Palm Springs California terrain wise, but does not have the high Palm Springs cost of living. Las Cruces is the second largest city in New Mexico with a population of over 100,000. 
The couple bought their home in the Mesilla Valley area of Las Cruces in September of 2021 and were able to complete their move in November 2021. In November of 2022, Michael was contacted by a recruiter and asked to consider teaching social welfare policy at NMSU as a Visiting Professor. He began teaching in January 2023 and continues to teach online courses for the School of Social Work at NMSU, focusing on social policy. Since retirement and the move to Las Cruces, Larry has been engaged with a national therapy organization to provide online mental health counseling to residents of New Mexico and Arkansas.

Lac Cruces:
Population: 111,385 (2020)Location: Southern New Mexico, on the banks of the Rio GrandeElevation: 3,908 feet (1,193 m)Climate: Warm, dry desert climate with 350 days of sunshine per yearMajor industries: Education, healthcare, tourism, agricultureNotable attractions: White Sands National Monument, Organ Mountains-Desert Peaks National Monument, Mesilla Valley Bosque State Park, New Mexico State University, Spaceport AmericaWhy people visit Las Cruces: For its warm weather, beautiful scenery, and variety of cultural and recreational activitiesWhy people live in Las Cruces: For its affordable cost of living, friendly people, and proximity to outdoor recreation



Support the showIf you enjoy these podcasts, please make a donation by clicking the coffee cup on any page of our website www.wheredogaysretire.com. Each cup of coffee costs $5 and goes towards bringing you these podcasts in the future.

If you or you know someone who is interested in being a guest on the podcast, please contact me at mark@wheredogaysretire.com.

Please join our Where Do Gays Retire Facebook group at Where Do Gays Retire? | Facebook

Thank you so much for listening!