On February 1, the "Care Bears," Joe Mannetti, International Daddy Bear 2009, and this writer, Mr. Rawhide NYC 2011 and Mr. North American Bear 2012, presented "Forever Fierce," a benefit for the New York City-based organization FIERCE.  The event was held at the West Village Bear and Leather hotspot Rockbar, on Christopher Street, and featured live performances by Mr. Eagle 2013 NYC Arsenio Amadis; Justice LaBoy, lead singer of modern rock band Mad for Justice; and popular drag diva Candy Samples.  Also in attendance were the Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence; celebrity and fashion photographer Rob Ordonez, Mr. Paddles NYC 2013; and the men of ONYX, the national Leather fraternity of Men of Color.  Rockbar's fun and furry staff and equally hot and hairy loyal regulars were, of course, there as well
With music by iconic DJ Chauncey Dandridge, "Forever Fierce" climaxed with New York City nightlife guru Chris Reed's infamous "Bear Chest" contest.  The event was the third fundraiser created by the Care Bears, and over $1000 was raised for FIERCE that night. 
FIERCE is a membership-based organization building the leadership and power of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer (LGBTQ) youth of color in New York City.  For more information, visit www.FierceNYC.org.