Robin meets… Mr Fire Island Bear 2017

This June, all the bears are headed back to the legendary Fire Island for the fourth Fire Island Bear Weekend, June 7th through 10th! At the centre of it is the Mr Fire Island Bear Contest at Cherry’s on the Bay, hosted by Ginger Snapped and presented by SCRUFF. 

In build up for the contest, I had a quick chat with the current reigning Mr Fire Island Bear, Dan Jimenez.

Before I chat to Dan though, here’s what Shane Tate, Fire Island Bear Weekend’s organizer, has to say about Dan:

“Dan Jimenez has been one of the best Mr. Fire Island Bears to date. He has taken the initiative to do some very positive things with his title. Dan is a natural born leader and cares tremendously for his community this is why I’m proud to announce that Dan Jimenez has agreed to come on as Director of the Mr.Fire Island Bear contest.”

With that introduction, here’s my chat with Dan…

Hi Dan, great to meet you. Let’s start with you giving us a bit of background

I’m 38 years old, Puerto Rican from the Bronx. I manage a pediatric neurosurgical office and I’m happily engaged to my boyfriend of 5 1/2 years. People can follow me on Instagram: DanJimz and Facebook: Danny J. Millet

What made you enter the Competition?

I wanted an opportunity to give back to a community that welcomed me with open arms when I first discovered it. I felt with winning I could be a voice for my brother bears and be a positive role model for future generations.

What was your favorite bit of taking part?

Being my first Bear Weekend at Fire Island it was pretty epic. But meeting the contestants and making new friends amongst them and the crowd was a standout moment.

I also loved performing the lap dance on stage that I was asked by the judges to do to an audience member. I really got to show the judges and audience my gogo dancer moves.

What have you done in your title year?

I’ve kept myself pretty busy. I hosted 2 fundraisers; the first along side with my Fire Island leather counter part; proceeds went to the hurricane Harvey victims. The second just a few short weeks ago with Mr. Eagle 2018; proceeds went to the Tyler Clementi foundation.

I’ve also worked with other title holders for fundraisers benefiting the hurricane Maria victims in Puerto Rico, the trans Latina network, Hispanic Federation, the ACACIA network, and the Trans Latina coalition in PA.

Aside from that. I represented Fire Island Bear at both Folsom East and Folsom in San Francisco, Orlando Bear bust, the Mr. and Ms. Philadelphia leather; and also judged the Mr. Boston Bear 2018 and Mr. Soaked competitions.

What did you enjoy most about Fire Island Bear Weekend?

The amazing parties Shane Tate throws. The amount of sexy bears, great music and great drinks. You can’t beat that!

Finally, what’s your advice for anyone entering this year?

My advice would be to stay true to yourself. Have fun with your time on stage. If you need a drink to losen up, have it, but please don’t be sloshed.  And regardless if you win or lose, you’re still a winner in my book because it takes a lot of guts to go on stage and be vulnerable to a bunch of strangers.

Do you have what it takes to be Mr. Fire Island Bear 2018? The winner of this contest will be the new face of Fire Island Bear Weekend 2019. Prizes also include a $100 cash prize, free entry for two to the BRUT! party after the show and gift certificates from KStraps & BEAR SKN!

To enter click here to visit the Fire Island Bear Weekend website and fill out the form.