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CONTENTS

APRIL 28, 2016 | VOL 336

20. DON’T CALL IT A COMEBACK

Queer Eye actor Jai Rodriquez exposes his childhood life in the Christian church, his current projects and his love life.

THE NEXUS

11. Gay D.D. 12. What's Next | Nightlife: Aqua Man Pool Party 14. What's Next | Books: Why Drag? 16. Finery: Gregg Lanvin

FEATURES

28. Brief Encounter: Osvaldo Supino 34. Spotlight: Rocco Steele’s 10/7 40. Feature: Peeq, A New App

NEXT STEPS

45. Fitness: Want Muscle? 54. Dining: 5 Cinco de Mayo Restaurants

NEXT WEEK 57. Calendar of Events

54 6

On the Cover Actor Jai Rodriquez. Photo By Dennis Dean. Creative By Marvin Alexander Artistry. Grooming By Marvin Alexander @Marvin_Alexander. Styling By Gary Wolf @Styled_By_G. Fashion By Gary Wolf and Suitsupply.com. Set Location Miami Dance Studio.

04-28-2016 Issue 336 PUBLISHER

Kevin Hopper EDITORIAL

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THE

GAY D.D. · WEEK IN PHOTOS · WHAT’S NEXT

Aqua Man Pool Party PAGE 12

COMMENT OF THE WEEK: “We’ve got to stand side by side with all our neighbors—straight, gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender; Muslim, Jew, Christian, Hindu immigrant, Native American.” - Michelle Obama

APRIL 28, 2016

GOT GAY-TENTION DEFICIT DISORDER?

Was an ally award given to the Mona Lisa after she drank lemonade in a raspberry beret? PRINCE We’re all still reeling from last week’s news that music legend Prince passed away at 57. One of the most moving tributes came from gay singer and rapper Frank Ocean on Tumblr. “He was a straight black man who played his first televised set in bikini bottoms and knee high heeled boots, epic,” Ocean wrote. “He made me feel more comfortable with how I identify sexually simply by his display of freedom from and irreverence for obviously archaic ideas like gender conformity etc.” MARIAH CAREY She will always be our baby. It was just announced that Mariah Carey will receive the Ally Award at the 27th Annual GLAAD Media Awards. Academy Award-nominated director Lee Daniels will present Carey with the honor. The awards will be held in New York City at the Waldorf Astoria on May 14, 2016. Laverne Cox hosts. MONA LISA An Italian art historian claims to have solved one of the art world’s

oldest mysteries – with a somewhat unexpected answer. Silvano Vinceti claims that Leonardo da Vinci’s iconic Mona Lisa, which hangs in the Louvre in Paris, was based in part on his apprentice – and alleged gay lover. CHRIS HEMSWORTH Appearing on Ellen to promote his latest film, The Huntsman: Winter’s War, Chris Hemsworth revealed that he’d received an unusual request from his four-year-old daughter India Rose. “My daughter is kind of envious of the boys at the moment,” he explained, referring to his two-year-old twin sons. “She came to me the other day and she was like, ‘Ya know, Papa, I want one of those things Sasha and Tristan have. Ya know, the things in between the legs that you have.’” Hemsworth responded to the four-year-old, “You know what, you can be whatever you want to be.” BEYONCÉ Everybody will be drinking lemonade this week. Beyoncé's pain was palpable in her hour-long vi-

sual album “Lemonade” that premiered on HBO over the weekend. The artist told a story of betrayal by her husband Jay-Z and how she managed to pull herself from the ashes of their burned bond and seemingly forgive and forget. Her newest album of the same name dropped instantly right after on Tidal, making Beyoncé fans everywhere cringe that they had to download Tidal. No worries. It’s now also available of iTunes. HARRIS WOFFORD Former U.S. Senator Harris Wofford revealed in a moving essay penned for The New York Times that he would be marrying again almost 20 years after his wife of 48 years died of cancer. Only this time – to a man. The 90-year old’s fiancé is 50 years his junior and they have been together for 15 years. “Too often, our society seeks to label people by pinning them on the wall — straight, gay or in between,” Wofford wrote in the essay. “I don’t categorize myself based on the gender of those I love.”

WHAT’S NIGHTLIFE

Aqua Men Pool Party

he Aqua Foundation for Women is at it again. The nonprofit host an annual shindig every year called Aqua Girl as one of their biggest fundraisers to support their efforts. But the sought out party fest isn’t just for the ladies because Aqua Girl has made sure to invite the fellas by hosting a men’s pool party, Aqua Men. “We have a lot of guys that support our work and we wanted to celebrate with them,” a welcoming gesture made by Caitlin Wood, the organization’s new Executive Director. “Men are always welcome to all our events.” Wood has been the executive director for Aqua Foundation for Women for a year and half now so this will be her first official Aqua Girl event at the helm navigating the waters. And she is guaranteeing that the five-day celebration will be just as fun and exciting as years past. Aqua Men is part of that equation. Wood couldn’t hold back the excitement when she told us who was going to be spinning the tracks at the men’s pool party this year. None other than famed Brazilian DJ Tommy Love who just so happens to be all over the international dance music circuit. But he’s not the only, fresh new look to Aqua Men. To be accurate, Wood was super excited about all the interesting and fun details about the event when she was giving us the rundown. The 17th annual Aqua Girl fest pool parties will take place at a new hotel location, The Hotel Raleigh (775 Collins Ave, Miami Beach, FL 33139). That means the second annual Aqua Men pool party will be at one of South Beach’s most recognizable pools. And might we add, one of Miami’s most desirable at that. We can’t help but announce a useless yet fun fact about the hotel – it’s owned by Tommy Hilfiger. How posh is that? “It’s bigger and better than every year before,” proclaimed Wood. The regal pool party will be decked out with hot go-go dancers both male and female and poolside cabanas. Get real fancy and go big with

either VIP admission, which includes open bar or request bottle service. It’s all about having the best time while contributing to the grant and scholarship program geared to assist our lesbian, bisexual and trans sisters. You’re sure to have a blast even if you don’t go all out. Adora, Miami queen extraordinary, will be hosting the water party with fun, cool games to enjoy throughout the afternoon starting at 11:00 am to 6:00 pm. General admission is only $15 in advance and $25 at the door. Aqua Men have really thought of everything! I know it might sound a little daring but there will also be food at the event provided by Aqua Girl Café – just work it off with a twerk. And Sunday Brunch is available for the famished from 11:00 am to 1:00 pm at $30 for food and $25 for bottomless Mimosas and Bloody Mary’s. It’s all going down May 15. Purchase your tickets on eventbrite.com, Aqua Men. – Jameer Baptiste

BOOK

WHAT’S

et a gander at Bianca Del Rio, Courtney Act, Jackie Beat, Adore Delano, Jinkx Monsoon, Lady Bunny, Detox, Sharon Needle and others in Why Drag?, a coffee table book, depicting well-known drag queens and accompanying short essays hitting bookstore across the country on May 17. The visually captivating book is the brainchild of photographer Magnus Hastings. Hastings’ name has become synonymous with drag queens ever since he traveled to Sydney, Australia to focus on its thriving drag scene. While there, the publishing industry took notice, and he was offered a ten-page spread by Blue magazine to showcase his dazzling work. From that point on, Hastings’ demand skyrocketed and after returning home in London, he worked with leading publications around the globe that yearned for the chance to showcase his amazing knack at capturing the drag community and personas in the most appealing and radiating light. It was a dream come true for the sought after photographer. “I think a big part of Why Drag? is rooted in that little effeminate boy who was shamed out of doing what made him happy,” says Hastings. “I grew up resenting that childhood version of myself until one day, I had such a wave of love for him. I realized how extraordinary and beautiful he was, how fearless. Somehow I think this honors him.” Hastings first made a name for himself in the London gay scene with his explosive exhibition at The Box in central London. His majestic way of capturing colorful details that provoked awe in viewers was noticed by Time Out magazine, and they picked up the show, quickly honoring him as a respected name throughout the photography and publishing world. He became a prominent photographer taking pictures of numerous celebrities for publication covers like QX, Boyz, Attitude, Bent and AXM. He later went on to shoot for the publications GQ magazine, People magazine (USA), Cosmopolitan (Italy), Glamour (UK) and many more, while always keeping his burning passion for the art of drag. In 2010, Hastings had the amazing opportu-

nity to work with Boy George snapping beautiful shoots of queens that appeared in Boy George’s 2011 coffee table book, “The King of Queens.” Their work together was so synergistic that a love for one another solidified an agreement that Boy George would write the foreward of Hastings’ book. That time came in 2015 when Hastings’ hugely successful 2014 drag photo and short essay exhibit in NYC, titled "Why drag," was noticed by publishings' Chronicle books, which offered Hastings a book deal. He immediately spent the rest of 2014 and the year 2015 photographing 135 interesting and prominent drag queens throughout the United States asking each one, “Why drag?” As promised, the fun and endearing book has a foreward written by Boy George. Hastings has recently partnered with award-winning filmmaker Dimtry Zhitov on a feature length documentary of the book. “I want people who don’t know drag to be opened up to its beauty and its comedy,” says Hastings. “It’s a wonderland, and I want people to go there.” ---Jameer Baptiste

FINERY Gregg Lanvin

Emcee of the First Annual Lipstick Masquerade Ball BY JAMEER BAPTISTE

HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE YOUR STYLE? My style is that fun guy next door. Simple but stylish for any occasion. WHY ALL BLACK WITH A SPLASH OF WHITE? Black is just very clean to me and it goes with almost every color. Besides when I'm on the mic I wear a lot of black to remind me that I'm working. The touch of white was just to make me stand out. WHATâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S YOUR TAKE ON WEARING SUNGLASSES AT NIGHT? It's cool, just another why to stand out. The right accesories always make any outfit 10 times better. DO YOU LIKE YOUR MEN TO DRESS LIKE YOU OR SHOULD THEY HAVE THEIR OWN UNIQUE STYLE? Their own personal style. It's dope to see people put things together to fit their fashion style. Your own take on how you feel or how you want to look is the best thing in the world. DO YOU WEAR A HAT FOR STYLE OR IS IT A COVER-UP LIKE WHY THE SINGER NEYO WEARS ONE? I've always been told I have very nice hair texture and I do just rock my natural cut from time to time. But I love hats especially fitted caps.

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Jai Rodriguez: He's Back, As If He Ever Left

PHOTOGRAPHY BY

DENNIS DEAN GROOMING BY

MARVIN ALEXANDER STYLING BY

GARY WOLF 20

ON THE COVER

AI RODRIGUEZ STORMED ON THE ACTING SCENE IN ONE OF THE MOST UNFORGETTABLE TIME PERIODS FOR THE LGBT COMMUNITY ON TELEVISION. AS ONE OF THE FIVE STARS ON THE HIT BRAVO TELEVISION SHOW QUEER EYE FOR THE STRAIGHT GUY, RODRIGUEZ AND HIS FUN-LOVING CO-STARS MADE HISTORY AS THE FIRST ALL-GAY CAST ON TELEVISION AND WERE PART OF THE LGBT WAVE OF SHOWS TO BE RELEASED ON TELEVISION AT THAT TIME. THE SHOW STOPPED FILMING IN 2007 BUT THAT SURELY DIDN’T MEAN THE END OF RODRIQUEZ’S CAREER. THE DYNAMIC BRIGHT-FACE THESPIAN HAS SINCE SHOWN HIS VERSATILITY AS AN INCREDIBLE ACTOR PLAYING ROLES AS AN UNRECOGNIZABLE TRANSGENDER ON THE TELEVISION SHOW HARRY’S LAW, A GUEST STAR ON NIP/TUCK AND COUNTLESS OTHER ROLES. THIS YEAR HE IS ON FIRE WITH PROJECT AFTER PROJECT. PLUS, WE LEARNED HE HAS A VERY INTRIGUING BACKSTORY. GET INTO HIS LIFE WITH US AS WE CHAT IT UP WITH THE ENDURING STAR. BY JAMEER BAPTISTE I learned that you were in the gospel choir and attended a Christian school while growing up. What was that like? I learned some of my best qualities as a human from my time in church: compassion, kindness and a desire to help others. However, I also had horrible experiences with people from the church both before coming out and after they learned I was gay. You are so multitalented, dabbling in pretty much every field of entertainment, so which comes first? Well, I started on Broadway, then acted on TV and started to host. My passion is entertaining a crowd. Thankfully, I can do that over many mediums whether it’s hosting a reunion special or, on a small scale, performing my cabaret act, Tales from an Aging Twink, which I really want to do in Miami. You have pretty much appeared on TV in every way whether it’s portraying a character, hosting or appearing Continued on next page n

as yourself, which form of acting do you prefer the most? I love sitcoms. The live audience factor really gives me something to play off of. I was in heaven when I stared opposite Reba and Lily Tomlin on our ABC sitcom Malibu Country.

a murderer, which I played on the T V show Bones. I'm not trans. I'm not a murderer. Yet both roles were incredible opportunities to create a fully formed character different than who I am in my daily life. P.S. Kiss Me, Kill Me has several plot twists.

Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s so interesting that you, a gay male, played a straight cop in your new movie Kiss Me, Kill Me, which is centered on a gay couple. What was that experience like for you? I've been asked this question many times over the years of playing straight men but always from gay publications. A role is a role. I identify as "queer." I only date and sleep with men now, but I'm a strong actor able to play everything from a trans woman to

How is the Dance Momsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; cast behind the scenes compared to how they are portrayed on TV? I worked with the moms and Abby for one day only as the reunion host. They all were incredibly gracious. Abby was Abby, at first guarded and cautious, but eventually she opened up. I am a huge fan so I think they appreciated having me. The reunion got very heated - more drama than backstage at a Score Nightclub drag

show. I also hosted the farewell special for Maddie, the cast mate in Sia's videos, and her little sister who starred on the show for years. That show was super fun. I felt like their "Guncle." You have to be elated to be working on one of the funniest shows on Netflix, Grace and Frankie? I had the opportunity to star on a sitcom with Lily Tomlin for a year. She is nothing short of genius. My scenes on season 2 are with the boys. We laughed a lot on set. Out of all the shows I've ever been on who would have thought that the show featuring legends would be the most drama-free and chilled set ever. I hope they have me back for season three. It seems as though you have a lot going on right now, career wise. What do you do to escape from the world? I host an epic Karaoke night in West Hollywood. We have a stage, a spotlight and the best sound

around, so we attract some of LA’s best singers. That's my happy place! I love a great night of incredible music. You have such an amazing body, how do you maintain it? First of all thanks, I'm trying. But I’ve been "loading" as they say that means I've been hanging out with Dominos too often. But it's time to lean out so now I'm eating clean and boring. Honestly, a good body starts in the kitchen. Sucks but its totally true. Outside of eating well, I work out five times a week. My goal is really just to be healthy, not necessarily look like an underwear model or circuit boy. How’s your personal life? Are you seeing anyone special? I'm single. I kid around and say I'm going to meet my future boyfriend in Miami and move there. It's been a lifelong goal of mine to live in Miami. I 'd just have to figure out what to do for work. n

Rodriguez's new film, Kiss Me, Kill Me, has just screened at MiFo on Sunday, April 24. Catch his Dance Moms Reunion Show hosting gig on Lifetime at the end of May, and the Dance Moms Farewell Show to Maddie and Makenzie a week after the reunion airs. His guest spot on Grace and Frankie will air on Netflix on May 6. If you want to stay in contact, follow him on Instagram @ officialjairodriguez and on Twitter @Jairodriguez. Or like his Facebook page jairodriguezfanpage. He’s constantly live streaming videos of his life - everything from rehearsals, behind the scenes and spray tans.I

Osvaldo: Italy Invades Miami Beach

BY JAMEER BAPTISTE

svaldo Supino is an Italian born singer with the charm and adorableness that is equally captivating to his sweet savoring vocals. Thankfully, he flew down from Milan to give us a sample during Miami Beach Gay Pride 2016. And he didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t disappoint. Spectators got to experience the songsterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s enchanting voice and aromatic charisma during his lively stage performance.

BRIEF ENCOUNTER

Osvaldo performance was fun and seductive at the same time. The lovable singer wowed the audience with his English lyrics, fierce pop dance moves and climactic finale - he pulled an unexpected eye candy on stage with a tasteful striptease. Osvaldo is back in Italy now, but the sultry taste of Miami still lingers on his lips. Take a trip with us as we catch up with the awing vocalist. Was Miami Beach Gay Pride 2016 your first time in the United States? I've been to LA and NY this past year, but Miami completely stole my heart. I must say that when my production team told me about performing at Miami Beach Gay Pride, I was so scared. I felt like, “Oh no, I don't think I'm ready for this.” But then my brother told me, “What are you doing? Just go and do what you love to do!” So I told my production team, “I'm going to do it only if you let me go alone.” I had to prove to myself that I could do it. And I won. Why are some of your songs in English rather than Italian? It's never been a choice, but rather a result of my creative process. I don't consider a song written in Italian different than any other one written in English. I really believe in the power of communication and the language comes after and in that prospective. When and how did you learn English? It was during my first trip to the states when I went to LA at the age of 18. There I started listening to interviews, watching movies and trying to talk with the guys I liked in English. It was very extreme but a beautiful experience What was it like performing at Miami Beach Gay Pride? Amazing, usually I'm very nervous when I'm on the stage. I usually need kind of three songs to relax, but at Miami Beach Gay Pride, I immediately loved

it and the energy from the audience really made me enjoy everything from the start. I genuinely had a great time. I heard you recorded a video while down in South Beach? I can't tell you a lot because I want it to be a surprise. But I can say that it was a beautiful experience. Dmitry Zhitov, who directed the video, is one of the greatest and most generous people I've ever met. Working with him has been extraordinary cool. He’s so collaborative and talented. I really believe this could be one of my most beautiful videos to date. I notice that you do a sexy call to the stage moment during your performance with an audience for a seductive dance. What was that about? It's a number I always do in my shows. When I sing this medley “Pornographic” and “Wet Dream.” I like to “taste” the audience of all the countries I tour. It's a sexy yet fun moment for me. And it's so cool to see the different reactions of the guys and the audience every time I do it. Where do you get your inspiration for your songs? My music has been always a reflection of my experiences, so it comes from my private life or what I dream and wish for myself. What can we expect from you in the future? More music and love.

Rocco Steele’s

SPOTLIGHT

10/7

After a year of busting his dick for all of your favorite porn studios, the 10 by seven meat slinger is hoping to invade your drawers. BY: MIKELLE STREET

n the two years since he filmed his first porno for Ray Dragon, Rocco Steele has made an oversized name for himself. Picking up awards for “Best Co*k,” Mr. New York and Mr. International through the Hookie awards as well as “Hottest Co*k,” Fan Favorite and Best Group Scene from the GRABBYS, the 51-year-old’s rise to the top of the industry has been nothing short of meteoric. And now, the in-demand daddy who launched his own X-rated site last May featuring homevideo-quality clips with a rotating group of talent, seems to be making an exit.

“Porn was always just a stepping stone for me,” Steele says, having filmed with the likes of Chi Chi LaRue, Men.com, TimTales and Lucas Entertainment in the past. “It wasn’t supposed to last more than a year. Because it got really big, really fast, I let it go on a little longer.” As of last month though, the Ohio-native officially took a step in another direction with his own underwear line. Using his porn name Rocco Steele, the law school graduate launched his 10Seven line of boxer briefs via his online shop RoccShop.com. “I come from a corporate retail background,” Steele explains. Prior to his stint as a porn star, the 5’ 10” creative logged 14 years in the fashion and beauty industries working on the corporate and visual merchandising sides. “I always knew that I wanted to sell a product, but I didn’t know what it was — I just knew I wanted it to be easy to make, easy to ship and something I knew something about.” But it understandably took time to get there. 10Seven has been iterating in Steele’s mind since he left his corporate job two years ago. At the time, the untrained entrepreneur was already working on designs and had taken out a trademark for a brand under a different name. “Getting into underwear seemed obvious to me because I was approaching 50 years old and I was bitching and moaning that I couldn’t find underwear that was appropriate for me as a maturing gay man. I didn’t want to wear neon colored, bikini, banana hanger briefs that were out there on the market; they just looked silly on me and I didn’t feel comfortable.”

front, the spandex and the fly front is going to be more comfortable because the fabric can expand and give you more room.” But eventually sketches weren’t enough; Steele needed money. “Everything that I had to pay for came from a year of selling my dick,” the porn star explains, giving reason to his months of fucking on film with his own 10 by seven. “Just like a year of traveling the world, doing shows, doing videos, escorting; just a full year of literally busting my dick and the whole time I was putting everything away.” The fruits of that labor are still blossoming as even though no new work has been filmed for his site RoccoSteeleStudio.com, and money for the production of that has been funneled into producing underwear, the site still pulls in revenue. “I’ll never be out of the business completely, I’ll always have a connection,” Steele explains. “Every once in awhile I get a call from Falcon and I love shooting for them so I will always say yes to Falcon if they knock on my door, but I’m done for the most part with shooting.” “Merchandise, specifically my underwear, is the new chapter in my life. I want Rocco to be known as the former porn guy who now does underwear.” And with orders coming in as far flung as Saudi Arabia, and a brief style expected to hit come late summer, he’s definitely hot on that path.

“We don't all have gogo boy bodies,” Steele continues. “We can’t all fit into Andrew Christian underwear.” For those that can’t (or don’t want to), the former Hustlaball performer set about designing a pair of boxer briefs that read both conservative and sexy. The brother of three sisters, he even called in his nephews for advice on what his new product should look like. The resulting design, which combines elements from some of Steele’s favorite underwear styles that are already on the market, features a medium rise gunmetal waistband that falls in line with the designer’s #bulletproof hashtag, a classic fly front and a cotton blend fabric. “No matter what your build is, these underwear are going to fit you,” Steele says of the fabric. “If you got a bit booty in the back, the spandex is going to expand to fit you. If you’ve got a lot of junk in the

A PEEK INSIDE PEEQ

NEW SOCIAL APP LETS USERS MEET, DRINK AND PARTY. BY DARIUS DUPINS

FEATURE

enis O’Leary once said the definition of an entrepreneur is someone willing to take risk. That is in fact what app developer, Chris Gaviria, along with his executive team, has done with Peeq, a new social application for singles to chat and find recommended bars and clubs. “Peeq allows users to see who's around them and express interest by adding any user to their hot list and match with them if they add them back,” Gaviria said. What’s so different about Peeq? It seems as if it has the same premise as Grindr or Jack’d, right? Not exactly. Though you can view profiles and possibly use it for hookups, Peeq allows its user to benefit from free drinks or free door cover promotions at the bars and clubs listed in the app. Peeq also takes the matching concept of Tinder and the networking capabilities of Facebook. “There is no social app for singles that recommend bars and clubs that users can go to in every city. This feature is especially useful for users that travel and want to find cool nightlife hot spots,” said Gaviria. This app’s target audience is between 18 to 35. No stranger to the app development world, Gaviria has worked on numerous mobile app projects for other companies through his consulting services, both for startups and even large companies like Norwegian Cruise Line and Polaroid. Peeq is the first mobile app this young entrepreneur has developed and released by himself. “I love developing apps, it’s a fun type of business to be in,” Gaviria said. These individuals go out to clubs and bars three to four times a week, have various interests such as team sports, meeting new people and traveling. Peeq is an app of its own kind and it is important that an effective marketing and distribution plan is set up. It’s none of our business but with the potential of Peeq, we hope Gaviria and the gang have an innovative marketing strategy that will reach its potential audience.

Currently, Peeq signup is by invite only and invite codes are given either from one of the Peeq models or from existing Peeq users. Peeq is only available here in South Florida, but in the next year Gaviria and his team expect to have a presence in over 50 major cities in the US. Next stop, New York City. “Even without an invite code anyone can still download Peeq and join the waiting list. We will approve profiles as we reach more cities,” Gaviria explained. Worried about those pesky “bots”? Don’t worry, Gaviria has that all under control. “All Peeq profiles are carefully moderated to try to weed out fake profiles,” he said. Developing this mobile app wasn’t a walk in the park for Gaviria. As he acted on his vision and remained persistent, not everything went as planned for Gaviria, such as funding and thwarted investment plans. “Sometimes you just gotta roll up your sleeves and do things yourself to make things happen,” said Gaviria about the struggles of developing Peeq.

IN 路THE

SHOT DARK

MISS FLORIDA AT LARGE PAGEANT

PHOTOS BY JAMEER BAPTISTE

NICOLE T. PHILLIPS MISS FLORIDA F.I. AT LARGE 2016

FITNESS • DINING

Want Muscle? Avoid These Mistakes BY TOM BONANTI

veryone wants to make the most of his time in the gym. Nobody wants to risk an injury that will set him back, or put him out of commission indeﬁnitely. Besides missing workouts, employing sloppy form, and lifting weight that is either too light or too heavy, there are other mistakes to eliminate if you want to build muscle and prevent injuries. Here are some muscle building pitfalls to avoid always!

IF YOU DON’T EAT, YOU WON’T MAKE GAINS. You need protein, at least .8 grams per pound of lean body mass, in order to maintain and build quality muscle. Consume plenty of compound, low glycemic index carbohydrates (whole grains, fresh fruits and vegetables) especially earlier in the day to help fuel those workouts and keep you charged up for the day’s activities. Eliminate saturated fats, fried and processed foods and other junk from your nutritional plan. Never work out on an empty stomach, especially first thing each morning; your body is already in a catabolic state and you’ll risk burning up hard earned muscle as well as fat!

FITNESS NOT WARMING UP BEFORE A WORKOUT CAN SPELL DISASTER. A light to moderate intensity bout of cardio (10 minutes) on a recumbent bike or tread mill before weight training will warm up joints and muscles, rev up your metabolism, and help prevent injuries. Stretching, running in place, or a light jog will elevate your core body temperature and help you run, swim or do martial arts will greater ease and efficiency. Just a few moments of warming up properly can spell greater productivity in the gym. LACK OF SLEEP WILL SET YOU BACK. Remember, muscles grow and recover during sleep and rest periods, not while you’re using and abusing them in the gym! When you sleep, your body releases its growth hormone, IG-1, and testosterone. All of these hormones aid in the recovery and building of tired, worked out muscle fibers. Lack of sleep not only cheats you out of all this good stuff; it also causes you to look tired and store more body fat stubbornly. 8 to 10 hours is recommended for most busy, active people. DON’T MAKE THOSE WORKOUTS SO FANCY THAT YOU NEGLECT “THE BASICS.” Sure, boot camps and Zumba classes are great for meeting people who are fit-minded like you. Commercial health clubs are packed

with intriguing new machines and sleek sophisticated equipment. But there is nothing like those basic compound exercises to help you recruit the most muscle fibers and use the maximum weight to overload the muscles. Incorporating compound lifts requires effort from the target muscles as well as the helper or synergistic muscles from neighboring areas. Compound exercises force you to work the whole body systematically producing greater overall body strength, muscle growth and flexibility. Basic compound resistance training lifts include: squats (legs and overall body development); wide grip bench presses (chest); dead lifts (lower back and hamstrings); barbell rows (upper back); military presses (shoulders); barbell curls (biceps); close grip barbell bench presses (triceps). Also, don’t forget the importance of old fashioned push-ups, pull-ups, and chin-ups. Keep these in your routine and you will see and feel the gains in no time at all!

Remember, there’s no time like the present to tweek those workouts and build that healthy, beautiful body. Tom Bonanti is a certified fitness trainer and licensed massage therapist (MA#40288) and owner of Pump’n Inc. Gym www.pumpnincgym. com at 1271 NE 9th Avenue in Ft. Lauderdale, Fl. 33304. Contact trainertomb@aol with all questions, or call Tom (954) 557-1119 today to schedule a free consultation!

HEALTH & FITNESS

Cinco de Mayo Equals Mexican Taste Buds BY JAMEER BAPTISTE

little history lesson, in Mexico, Cinco de Mayo is a commemorative celebration of when the Mexican army won against the French forces at the Battle of Puebla. In the United States, Cinco de Mayo means a time to celebrate liquor, and, if you have an eye for detail--tequila. Slosh your way with us as we hit up five South Florida restaurants celebrating the unofficial party holiday.

m The Whole Enchilada: Fresh Mexican Grill (4115 N Federal Highway Fort Lauderdale FL 33308; 954561-4040) is a fast-casual dining restaurant with impeccable Mexican cuisine and a kicking Cinco de Mayo fiesta. They have it all starting with food and drink specials all day. Also Jeff D. will be there live from 12:00 pm to 6:00 pm and then Di Big Eff will be in the building from 6:00 pm to close. Get out your best costume and don your mustache for a chance to win the Cinco de Mayo Gear contest.

DINING

Rocco Taco’s and Tequila Bar (1313 E Las Olas Boulevard Fort Lauderdale FL 33301; 954-524-9550) is the place to be if you’re in the mood for tequila. The bar as over 400 varieties of tequila to choose from and that’s not all. If your need to soak up all that liquor, they have an impressive menu of lunch, bunch and dinner Americanized Mexican cuisine. On May 5, stop in at noon for drink specials while you Jabare to a live DJ. Check out their multiple locations throughout South Florida.

Tequila Ranch (5760 Seminole Way Fort Lauderdale FL 33314; 954-556-7430) at the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel and Casino is a crazy good time regardless of Cinco de Mayo or not. Open only for dinner everyday of the week starting at 5:00 pm, the establishment features live music and a mechanical bull. Add tequila to the mix and you’re bond to have a great time. Plus, there’s authentic Mexican cuisine.

Tequila Sunrise Mexican Grill (4711 N Dixie Highway Oakland Park FL 33334; 954-938-4473) will turning Cinco de Mayo out from when they open at 11:30 am to whenever the last person exits the building. The festive restaurant will have a makeshift bar setup outside where sample shots, t-shirt giveaways and margaritas will be available to patrons. Don’t forget to try their food. They've been voted number one Mexican restaurant by Local 10 News.

Naked Taco (1111 Collins Avenue Miami Beach FL 33139, 305-534-8455) will be hosting a Cinco de Mayo fiesta in true South Beach fashion. Starting at 2:00 pm, Cocina Mexicano et Bar Perfecto will have a DJ, drink specials, prizes dancers and a mini luchadores with menu items that are true to Mexican cuisine. The excellence displayed by Naked Taco’s world-renowned chef Ralph Pagano has been recognized by critics and publications around the globe.

WEEK

WHAT TO SEE & WHERE TO BE APRIL 29 THROUGH MAY 5

CONTACT JAMEER@WIRLD.COM IF YOU WOULD LIKE TO BE LISTED. LISTINGS ARE FREE AND SUBJECT TO EDITORIAL DISCRETION.

Cinco de Mayo Fiestas We have your guide to the best parties around town.

FRIDAY APRIL 29 RA RA RIOT CONCERT. Revolution Live 100 SW 3 Avenue Fort Lauderdale FL 33312; 954-449-1025, joinrevolution. net. Check out the alternative pop band’s optimistic, house tunes. Doors open at 8:00 pm and tickets are $22 in advance and $25 the day of.

ANGELS IN THE SKY. Lelia Mordoch Gallery 2300 North Miami Avenue Miami FL 33127; 786-413-1506, wynwoodmiami.com. Enjoy the collaborative exhibition that will showcase works from the gallery’s permanent collection centered on an aerial theme.

GROWL. Georgie’s Alibi Monkey Bar 2266 Wilton Drive Wilton Manors FL 33305; 954-565-2526, alibiwiltonmanors.com. It’s all about the bear. Watch beefy go-go dancers while you listen to the beats of DJ AJ Reddy. 2-41 open to close. 9:00 pm to 3:00 am.

SATURDAY APRIL 30 CHRIS ISAAK: FIRST COMES THE NIGHT TOUR. Au Rene Theater 201 SW 5 Avenue Fort Lauderdale FL 33312; 954468-2681. Join the gifted singer-songwriter as he performs new material from his recently released song, “First Comes the Night.” Doors open at 8:00 pm and tickets range from $45 to $120.

POP YOGA. Hotel Gaythering 1409 Lincoln Road Miami Beach FL 33139; 786-284-1176, gaythering.com. Align your chakras and work to physical and spiritual fitness with an energetic flow of sequence choreography to pop music. Make sure to get there before it begins at 10:45 am.

NEVERLAND MIAMI. Score Nightclub 1437 Washington Avenue Miami Beach Florida 33139; 305-535-1111, scorebar.net. The Chicago Dance group is coming to Miami with their avant-garde production. Enjoy their take on Alice in Wonderland in their “Queen of Hearts” rendition. Open bar from 11:00 pm to 11:30 pm.

Spend the day with musical acts by Andy Grammar, Saint Asonia and Alabama Shakes. One-Day pass is $40. Festivities begin at 1:00 pm.

5580 NE 4 Court Miami FL 33137; 305-438-8269, thenewslounge.com. Kiah of jus kiah Ent. Partners with Miami Maddness to give you an urban day experience with great food, happy hour cocktails and a live DJ from 4:00 pm to 10:00 pm. Different host off and on. $10 admission.

SUNDAY MAY 1 OMW NATIONAL DJ TOUR. Heart Nightclub 50 NE 11t Street Miami FL 33132; 305912-3099, heartnightclub. com. Continue the party at your favorite after-party spot. Join DJ Jeanne, Lu Puta Nota and resident DJ Carlos G at 4:00 am. SUNSET T-DANCE. Palace Bar 1200 Ocean Drive Miami Beach FL 33139; 305-5317234, palacesouthbeach. com. Spice up your Sunday afternoon with an unforgettable T-Dance including dazzling performances by local queens. SUNFEST. Flagler Park 100 Clematis Street West Palm Beach FL 33401; sunfest.com.

DRAG BRUNCH EXPERIENCE. R House Wynwood 2727 NW 2nd Ave, Miami, FL 33127; 305-576-0201, rhousewynwood.com. Every first Sunday of the month watch stellar entertainment by host Athena Dion, performer Max Selene and others as you jam out to the beats of DJ Pride ( Yvette) and enjoy great food and bottomless brunch drinks. 11:30 am to 5:00 pm. THE ULTIMATE HANGOVER DAY PARTY. The News Lounge

VAGABUNDOS POOL PARTY. Vagabond Hotel 7301 Biscayne Boulevard Miami FL 33138; 305-4008420, thevagabondhotel. com. Enjoy your Sunday out by the pool jamming to their DJs at the “We’re All Superheroes” party. Starts at 1:00 pm. $12 at the door.

MONDAY MAY 2 PROUD SPEAKERS AT THE PRIDE CENTER. The Pride Center 2040 N Dixie Highway Wilton Manors FL 33305; 954900-4075, 2266.toastmastersclubs.org. Learning how to be a great public speaker is at your fingertips every Monday at the Toastmasters Club No. 2266. The weekly

club will teach you public speaking, leadership skills and more. 2nd floor at 7:15 pm. MISTER VILLAGE PUB PAGEANT. Village Pub 2283 Wilton Drive Wilton Manors FL 33305; 754-200-5244, villagepubwm.com. It’s that time

again where all the men who think they have what it takes to go home with the crown can prove what they have to offer. Winner receive the reigning title and $750 prize package. It’s going to be a pageant you don’t want to miss. Enjoy the show starting at 7:30 pm.

TUESDAY MAY 3 MACK POWER LUNCH: GAY AND STRAIGHT FRIENDLY PROFESSIONAL NETWORKER. Outback Steakhouse 1801 S.E. 10th Avenue Fort Lauderdale, FL 33316; mackplanet.com. Network from 11:30 am until

1:30 pm. $34 for advance online registration and $40 at the door. UNDRESSED FOR INDUSTRY NIGHT. Progress Bar 2440 Wilton Drive Wilton Manors FL 33305; 954-533-4916, progressbarsouth-

florida.com. Join your host Christian and wash those Tuesday troubles down with $6 Grey Goose flavors and other happy hour specials.

WEDNESDAY MAY 4 BROWARD HOUSE - MEGA MEN EXPOSED PHOTO EXHIBIT. The Pride Center 2040 N Dixie Highway Wilton Manors FL 33305; 954-522-4749, browardhouse. org. Attend a program that will address body perception with

though provocative visuals. FINANCIAL WORKSHOP. The Pride Center 2040 N Dixie Highway Wilton Manors Florida 33305; pridecenterflorida.org. Beginning May 4 Edward Jones will offer a

Wednesday finance class for four weeks ending May 25. Learn stocks, fixed Income and general info. Limited Seating. RSVP to 954-764-6070. $20.

THURSDAY MAY 5 ARCHETYPE PORTRAITS BY BLAKE LITTLE. Stonewall National Museum and Archives 1300 E Sunrise Boulevard Fort Lauderdale FL 33304; 954-7638565, stonewall-museum.org. View photography depicts a non-traditional view of gay men. The exhibition runs until June 3. NOCHE DE ESCANDALO. Wolf Bar 2209 Wilton Drive Wilton Manors FL 33305; 954-306-2510, wolfbarsclub.com. Host Poizon Ivy Lords is sure to keep things going this Cinco de Mayo with special guest Sasha Lords. Indulge in $5 mojitos and $3 coronas, tequila and Fireball shots. Never a cover.

CINCO DE MAYO FIESTA. Naked Taco 1111 Collins Avenue Miami Beach FL 33139; 305534-8455, nakedtacomiami. com. Celebrate with drink specials, prizes, dancers, a DJ and killer tacos. All welcoming establishment.

CINCO DE MAYO PARTY. Mona’s Cocktail Lounge 502 E Sunrise Boulevard Fort Lauderdale FL 33304; 954-525-6662, monasbar. com. The ole so charitable bar is celebrating the Mexican Holiday with a complimentary taco bar starting at 4:00 pm.

CINCO DE MAYO: TACOS, LUCHA & CHELAS. Coyo Taco 2300 NW 2 Avenue Miami FL 33127; 305-573-8228, coyotaco.com. Get festive with the live Mariachi Band and entertainment con los mejores DJs. Specials on tacos, margaritas, ceviche, beer and cochinita pibil pig roast. All night long. All welcoming establishment.

SPREAD EM…CINCO DE MAYO. Rumors Bar & Grill 2426 Wilton Drive Wilton Manors FL 33305; 954-565-8851, rumorsbarwiltonmanors.com. It’s going down at this On the Drive staple. 2-4-1 open to close. $13 Full Taco Buffet 4:00 pm to 10:00 pm. $6 Don Julio Margaritas. Live Mariachi Band in their parking lot from 9:00 pm to 11:00 pm.

REAL ESTATE