CREDITS
April 05, 2018
From the PUBLISHER Peter Clark
04.05 ��� � Publisher Peter Clark
Peter@HotspotsMedia.com
Associate Publisher Scott Holland
Scott@HotspotsMedia.com
Editor Bill Henning
Bill@HotspotsMedia.com
Accounting Richard Paull
Richard@HotspotsMedia.com
Classifieds Manager Jim Nolen
Classifieds@HotspotsMedia.com
Art Director Frank Mendez
Frank@HotspotsMedia.com
Graphics
Graphics@HotspotsMedia.com
Maria Espinal
WELCOME TO THIS WEEK'S MIAMI BEACH PRIDE EDITION OF HOTSPOTS! This year's festivities are extra special since Miami Beach Pride is celebrating its 10th anniversary. The excitement builds all week and explodes Sunday, April 8 with a huge parade and festival! Join us there along with more than 100,000 other people as we celebrate with this year's headliners: Thelma Houston and Taylor Dayne! Friday, April 6 is the VIP Party at the worldfamous Faena Forum. For more information go to MiamiBeachGayPride.org.
While you're enjoying the festival on Sunday, don't forget to stop by the Hotspots and Mark's List booth and say hello; you'll find us close to the stage. While you're there, enter to win a very special VIP package to see Britney Spears! Not only will you see her live in concert, we have arranged for a backstage tour especially for the grand prize winners. We hope to see everyone on Miami Beach this weekend!
Digital Content Manager
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Senior Account Reps Anthony Verrico & Rich LoPrimo Account Reps Silvio Carvana National Advertising Rivendell Media
212-242-6863 • sales@rivendellmedia.com
Feature Writers Ian Maloney | Troy Maillis | Dan Woog Scott Holland | D'Anne Witkowski Chris Azzopardi | Oscar Ambulo Mikey Rox | Romeo San Vicente Photographers Stephen R. Lang | Pompano Bill | J.R. Davis Scott Holland | Juan Saco Mironoff Logistics Bobby Neal Furedi | Oscar Ambulo
Hotspots.LGBT | MarksList.LGBT
5090 N.E. 12th Avenue • Oakland Park, FL 33334 Broward Office: 954-928-1862 • Miami Office: 305-775-5265 • Central Florida Office: 813-253-9107 HotspotsMediaGroup.com • Facebook.com/HotspotsMag • Twitter.com/HotspotsFL
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By Scott Holland
It’s All About The Lighting Vizion!
I
’m sure you have all noticed like I have that there is a big difference in lighting and production from one club to the next. Sometimes they are mediocre and sometimes they are amazing. I wanted to take this opportunity to do a feature on one of the best company’s I have ever worked with and seen their work: Vizion Event Production. It was a pleasure to sit down with co-owner Raul Ernesto for this Hotspots exclusive interview.
8 | Hotspots.LGBT
When did you get into the nightclub business?
I was involved in the nightlife entertainment industry at a very young age. It was not until 2008 when it became my career.
What was the first club you managed?
The infamous DISCOTEKKA/Mekka in Downtown Miami.
At what point did you discover your love for lights and sound?
I have always been attracted to stage production. It is not an easy task to create a concept and bring it to life on a stage. I witnessed some of the best nightclub light shows and stage productions at the Coliseum in Fort Lauderdale, around 1998, under the direction of Gary Santis. I learned very much of the nightclub logistics and details for production from Santis. I do believe that besides art and passion, it is a special gift that is needed to be able to deliver a great visual production. I have
What made you decide to open Vizion Event Production?
VIZION Event Productions was born from the passion of music, production and nightlife of two individuals: Raul Vegas (moi), who has been in the Entertainment Industry of South Florida for almost two decades and has a keen eye for detail, production, organization and overall event logistics, and, Yazz Burrell, recognized Star DJ/Producer of South Florida in the LGBT community and specialist in audio visual technology.
What are the services that Vizion Event Productions offer?
We specialize in audiovisual high tech services. From corporate events to circuit parties and festivals. We offer top of the line sound, staging, lighting, LED WALL designs and Special effects. No event is too big or too small. We achieve the highest standards of excellence in audio visual production services by consistently providing our partners with the finest personal service and unforgettable audio visual experiences.
Is Vizion Event Productions affordable?
Definitely! The needs of every client are different and important to us. Our goal is to make your event an unforgettable and amazing experience. Every event is customized to your needs. We take pride in our “We Work With You” policy.
What has been some of the major events and nightclubs that have hired you? We are privileged to name the local nightclubs and organizations we have had the pleasure to work with:
URGE, Matinee Miami, White Party, Sizzle Miami, SAVE, Impulse, Miss Florida F.I., Kidd Madonny Events, GAY8 Festival, The Manor and SCORE to name just a few.
Why should someone hire Vizion Event Productions as opposed to another Audio Visual Company?
It is a reality, that like in any other industry, we have competitors that can achieve a good product, but what is also true and what sets us apart from the rest is our excellent personalized service, level of expertise and professionalism, and what we are most proud of ... that we always go that extra mile, providing you MUCH more then what you imagined. Our entire team is committed to the three pillars of: Service, Quality, and Technological Innovation, enabling us to exceed all of your needs and expectations.
What does the future hold for Vizion Event Productions?
A long and wide road of success. We are excited to be the production company of your choice for your next event!
For more information on Vizion Event Production call them at 786-444-6410 or 786-372-2018 email them at Vizionledevents@gmail.com; go to theoiir website at Vizionledevents.com or catch themon Social Media: Facebook.com/Vizion LED Events or Instagramm.com/ Vizion_Productions
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great admiration for Danny Villar, Kidd Madonny, and Luis Morera, who year after year are always delivering great creative concepts, shaping the way of Gay entertainment in South Florida.
“The need of something beyond what we usually see in LED Production and the support from peers and clients in the Industry gave us that ‘YOU CAN DO IT’ boost of confidence we needed to create VIZION” —Raul Vegas
Hotspots.LGBT | 9
IF YOU LOVE TRUMP, YOU’LL HATE THIS SHOW!
APRIL 21 Amaturo Theater
TICKETS at BrowardCenter.org • Ticketmaster | 954.462.0222 Broward Center’s AutoNation Box Office • Group Sales | 954.660.6307 The Broward Center 2017-2018 season is presented by the Broward Performing Arts Foundation. Follow us:
BrowardCenter
WHAT’S WHAT’S HOT HOT
By Scott Holland By Scott Holland
What’s What’sHOT HOT
South SouthFlorida Florida
OO
4th annual Bunnies on the 4th annual Bunnies on the n Wednesday, n Wednesday, Lauderdale from 5:30-7p.m. Lauderdale from 5:30-7p.m. Drive benefitting Julian’s Drive benefitting Julian’s Georgie’s Georgie’s This complimentary event This complimentary event Alibi/Monkey Alibi/Monkey featured delicious drinks, featured delicious drinks, Bar presented Bar presented mouth-watering food, mouth-watering food, their annual “Mr. their annual “Mr. networking and incredible networking and incredible Alibear, King Of The Forest, Alibear, King Of The Forest, entertainment. entertainment. Bear Pageant” hosted by Bear Pageant” hosted by
Fountain of Youth (Quenching Fountain of Youth (Quenching the LGBTQ Youth’s thirst for the LGBTQ Youth’s thirst for Later on, we went down to Later on, we went down to acceptance, knowledge and acceptance, knowledge and Miami as The Gay Vista Social Miami as The Gay Vista Social betterment) from 1-6p.m. The Group (GVSG) hosted a Group (GVSG) hosted a betterment) from 1-6p.m. The event featured a Gym Bunny & event featured a Gym Bunny & Seasonal Fashion Show at Seasonal Fashion Show at Bonnet contest, with lots of Creative Male Midtown. Creative Male Midtown. Bonnet contest, with lots of sexy men in bunny outfits. sexy men in bunny outfits. Starlet Skye and Antonio Starlet Skye and Antonio Models in Speedo’s are always Models in Speedo’s are always Edwards. The categories Edwards. The categories a good thing…LOL!! This a good thing…LOL!! This ncluded Presentation/Q&A included Presentation/Q&A shopping event was also a shopping event was also a Into the Woods); Swimwear, (Into the Woods); Swimwear, Miami Beach Gay Pride Miami Beach Gay Pride and Bearwear/Evening Attire. and Bearwear/Evening Attire. Volunteer Recruitment party Volunteer Recruitment party There were 5 sexy beary There were 5 sexy beary and helped bring people out and helped bring people out contestants and in the end contestants and in the end for a cause. for a cause. Fernando won the title of Mr. Fernando won the title of Mr. Alibear 2018! Alibear 2018! On Saturday, Fantasy On Saturday, Fantasy Theatre Factory presented Theatre Factory presented “Family Pride Festival” at the “Family Pride Festival” at the Miami Beach Regional Library Miami Beach Regional Library starting at 12 noon. The event starting at 12 noon. The event Later that night, The Pub featured karaoke, a dance featured karaoke, a dance Later that night, The Pub hosted both Deelighted hosted both Deelighted party, a magic show and much party, a magic show and much Tobehere (America’s Got Tobehere (America’s Got more. The best part was it was more. The best part was it was Talent) from NYC and their Talent) from NYC and their free! free! Saturday Night lineup of Saturday Night lineup of Last Thursday, the GLBX Last Thursday, the GLBX Nicole Halliwell's Drink N' Nicole Halliwell's Drink N' Afterwards , we headed to hosted their March After hosted their March After Afterwards , we headed to Drag. Deelighted was Drag. Deelighted was Hunters who presented the Hours Mixer at Lips Fort Hours Mixer at Lips Fort Hunters who presented the 18 | Hotspots.LGBT
Everything you need to plan your week adorable and very interactive with live singing and Drink N' Drag starred Sasha Lords, Missy Meyakie Lepage, Calypso Monroe and Mhi’ya Lepaige.
On Sunday early afternoon, Rumors Bar & Grill hosted their 6th Annual BIG Basket Giveaway with $1000 in Cash & Prizes, Live Music, their weekly Palate Party Brunch and lots of fun. They even had baskets suspended from the ceiling.
Afterwards, we walked across the street to Rosie's Sunday Funday Easter, which featured a lot of bonnets including Capt. Bill Schultz and his crew to Johnie Mejia & his boyfriend Omar Morales who are always up for a costume challenge.
Gay Pride and pay special tribute to the organizations founders with special guests Gus Kentworthy and Roxanne Vargas. The event is hosted by Julie Goldman and Brandy Howard with music by DJ Adora. Tickets are $100 in advance and $125 day of event and can be purchased at Pridegala2018.BrownPapereT ickets.com.
Twist presents a special appearance by DJ TonyYNot (of NYC and Fire Island) with a “Wurkout” CD Giveaway, and a closing set by DJ Mika and full liquor bar until 7a.m.
The Pub Wilton Manors presents Sherry Vine live at 9:30p.m. u SATURDAY APR 07
This erotic art exhibit will be on display from tonight through May 11 during gallery hours. For more info, go to: Artsunitedflorida.com.
Score Productions and Hilton Wolman proudly present the official Saturday night event of Miami Beach Gay Pride, URGE: Proud starring DJs Paulo and Nacho Chapado. Extended hours from 10p.m. to 7a.m. Advance tickets available at UrgeMiami.com.
The Pub Wilton Manors presents “Battle of the Bitches” with Sherry Vine and Jackie Beat at 10:30p.m.
The Club Fort Lauderdale features their bi-monthly (1st and 3rd Saturday of the month) Res-Erection Naked Blackout event at 10p.m. This is always a sold-out event, so get there early!
u FRIDAY APR 06
Miami Beach Gay Pride presents their VIP Gala at the world-famous Faena Forum from 7:30-10:30p.m. They invite everyone to join them as they kick off the 10th anniversary of Miami Beach
ArtsUnited hosts an opening reception for The Naughty Show tonight from 6 to 9p.m. at Tedds Art Works, 2422 N. Dixie Highway, Wilton Manors. There is a $10 cover.
The Ramrod presents Pig Dance #116 (first Saturday of the month), with DJ Daniel Hotspots.LGBT | 19
Kristopherre from 10p.m. to 3a.m.
The Manor Complex presents, back by popular demand, DJ Drew G of Dirty Pop in the ballroom. Noche Latina Saturdays, inside the Ivy Dance Room and Patio, presents special guests Lana Novva Lanudde and Angelica Monroe, along with resident DJ Larry Larr and sexy Latin go-go papis. Saturdays at the Manor feature NO COVER before midnight (FL res) and only $7 after for members and $10 for non-members (18-20 - $12 all night)
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u SUNDAY APR 08 Miami Beach Gay Pride presents the Parade and Festival. Although events have been going on all week, this is the final and major day that you do not want to miss. The parade starts at noon, and the festival goes until 10p.m. with Thelma Houston and Taylor Dayne performing at 8 and 9p.m., respectively. For more
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information, see the five page feature in this issue or go to: Miamibeachgaypride.org
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Flip Flops Dockside Eatery presents their monthly T Dance (first Sunday of the month) from 4 to 7p.m., hosted by Amanda Austin with DJ Robert Lavalle spinning and this month's special guests: Starlet Skye, Taina Norell, and Jasmine Lords. The Pub Wilton Manors presents Jackie Beat live at 9:30p.m.
Twist presents Beach Ball Pride 2018 T-Dance starring DJ Alex Infiniti at 6p.m.The entire club opens at 10p.m., including their famous Gaiety dancers. Arrive early to avoid the line! u TUESDAY APR 10
The Fort Lauderdale Historical Society (219 SW Second Avenue) will host an exclusive “Behind the Stacks� Tour of its Hoch Heritage
HOT
u THIS IS
For those of you who know me, you know I love me some BROADWAY! Therefore, you can only imagine how much I loved the book, Something Wonderful: Rodgers and Hammerstein's Broadway Revolution. ($32 for the 400-page hardcover). Richard Rodgers and Oscar Hammerstein II's first musical, Oklahoma!, opened on Broadway on March 31, 1943, and mark's its 75th anniversary this spring. That show, along with Carousel (whose new Broadway revival opens on April 12), South Pacific, The King and I, and The 20 | Hotspots.LGBT
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Research Center, Library and Archive. This unique, exciting and educational tour, marking the centennial of the end of World War I, will feature rare books, curated photos and artifacts that highlight diverse perspectives of how residents of early Fort Lauderdale and other Floridians participated in the Great War. The special program is being held in honor of the 60th anniversary of National Libraries Week and in recognition of National Library Workers Day, takes place from 10a.m. to noon, and is free with museum admission. General admission is $15 for adults; $12 for seniors and $7 for students (through age 22 with a valid student ID). Admission is free for members, military and children ages six and under. Tickets are available online at eventbrite.com at https://bit.ly/2FZ4AMR or at the door.
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u WEDNESDAY APR 11
Temple Sinai of Hollywood (1400 N 46th Ave), is
commemorating its 75th anniversary by collaborating with Temple Solel of Hollywood for Yom HaShoah (Holocaust Remembrance Day) at 7p.m. The program includes a presentation about the history of the Third Reich and how the Nazis perpetrated their crimes. The congregation will honor member survivors, next generation and the memories of marginalized communities. The program features performances by members of the Gay Men's Chorus of South Florida, Rabbi Noah Kitty of Congregation Etz Chaim, Wilton Manors, and Father Joe Spina OSF of the Franciscan Order at Sts. Francis & Clare will memorialize the millions of LGBT, Gypsies and other marginalized communities as well as the clergy and Righteous Among the Nations who risked their lives to save Jews from the Nazis. This event is free and open to the public. For more information go to: Sinaihollywood.org.
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Sound of Music firmly established Rodgers and Hammerstein at the apex of the great age of the American Songbook. The two men had previously written dozens of Broadway shows with other collaborators, but together they pioneered a new art form: the serious musical play. Their songs and dance numbers served to advance the drama and reveal character, which was a sharp break from the past and created the template on which all future musicals would be built. Author Todd S. Purdum's portrait of these artistic partners, offers a fresh and revelatory look at the personalities of these legendary figures, their relationship with each other, their creative process, and their groundbreaking innovations.
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Something Wonderful is full of illuminating anecdotes about the biggest stars of the day, including Ethel Merman, Yul Brynner, Mary Martin, and Julie Andrews, as well as Stephen Sondheim and Irving Berlin, both of whose work benefited from their association with Rodgers and Hammerstein. Purdum also introduces readers to many other creative artists on the R&H team whose contributions and innovations are not as well-known but should be. He also sheds light on the partners' emotionally distant relationship, even as they created one of the most profitable and powerful entertainment businesses of the twentieth century
uEmail WhatsHot@HotspotsMedia.com to have your items considered for What’s Hot Hotspots.LGBT | 21
Season 10
Kalorie karbdashian williams |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
E
by Scott Holland
pisode 2 of RuPaul's Drag Race Season 10 started with Ru walking into the workroom with the sexy Andy Cohen. They were both wearing cowboy hats, which gave us a clue to the mini challenge, which was “Hay Girl Hay.” The “gurls” had 20 minutes to get into quick drag and they would be judged on who had the most entertaining dance. The winners were Asia and The Vixen, who became captains for the Maxi Challenge: Pharmarusical. This was a lip sync, dance, production extravaganza built around fake pharmaceutical products. Alyssa Edwards was the coach and helped the teams with their choreography. The category on the runway was “Your Very Best Drag.” In the end, The Vixen's team won and were all
24 | Hotspots.LGBT
safe (The Vixen won a suite of jewels from Fierce Drag Jewels and a $2,000 gift card from Nails by Christy). This left the members of Asia O'hara's team all up for elimination. The bottom two were Kalorie and Eureka, and Kalaorie sashayed away.
Q: At what age did drag become an interest, and how did you pick your name? After seeing Drag Race on TV, drag became an interest when I turned 21. I went through a couple drag personas, and then I found one that stuck. Kalorie is all about body positivity. I picked my name based on the Kardashian show.
Q: How many times did you apply to be on RuPaul's Drag Race? How did it feel when you found out you had been chosen? This was my first time auditioning, and I did not anticipate I would get on, so it was surreal. When I got the phone call, I was in disbelief. When I woke up the next morning I checked my call log to be sure it was real and I hadn't imagined the call.
Q: Is there additional pressure now that RuPaul has been on for nine seasons plus three season of All Stars? Completely. There is a much higher standard. The fan base expects so much more! I think each year it will get harder and harder.
Q: Tell us about your RuPaul's Drag Race experience? It was phenomenal! It was hard, but it was
such a blessing, and I wouldn't trade it for the world.
Q: What's your marital status? If single, what are you looking for in a man? I am single, and I am looking for stability and a connection! Someone who enjoys life and can smile.
Q: Who do you want to win and why? I would love for one of the O'Hara's to win: either Eureka, as I would love to see a big girl win, or Asia, as she is one of my idols. Q: Tell us something people would be surprised to know about you. I actually watch my carbs‌LOL!
Q: What's ahead for Kalorie? I want to say everything. I want to take these 15 minutes of fame and push the boundaries and I want to push my drag to the next level each and every time.
For more information on Kalorie Karbdashian Williams, follow her on Instagram.com/Kalkarbdashianw or Facebook.com/ Kalorie K Williams.
Hotspots.LGBT | 25
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PRIDE - MIAMI BEACH
this extravaganza celebrates its 10th anniversary this year. The week-long festival ends on Sunday, April 8 with a huge parade and festival that draws in over 100,000 people, and features this year’s headliners: Thelma Houston and Taylor Dayne. On Friday, April 6 is the VIP party at the world famous Faena Forum. For more information on any of the events for Miami Beach Gay Pride go to MiamiBeachGayPride.org. ICON - SOPHIA LOREN
The award-winning actress will share stories of her childhood in war-torn Italy, her family life and prolific career. Loren will be accompanied by “Entertainment Tonight” interviewer Bill Harris and she will also answer questions from the audience. Catch her at the Seminole Casino Coconut Creek (5550 NW 40th St.) on Friday, April 6 at 8p.m. with tickets ranging from $70 to $250. TELEVISION – IMPOSTERS
Last year, the commercials got me interested, and from episode one I was hooked. Not to give too much away, the show centers on a con artist, and her marks. Imposters developed a small, but impassioned cult following for good reason. However, it seemed like the story had ended, so you can imagine my delight when I heard Bravo had Greenlighted a second season. Season 2 premieres tonight, Thursday, April 5, but you can catch up on Season 1 (only 10 episodes) on demand. SPORTS – GAY POLO
the 9th Annual Land Rover Palm Beach International Gay Polo Tournament, will be held at the International Polo Club Palm Beach on Saturday, April 7. General Admission tickets start at $30. For other tickets, including events all weekend, or for more information, please visit gaypolo.com SKATING – STARS ON ICE
There’s nothing like seeing Stars on Ice in the Olympic season! The best of the U.S. will be coming to you direct from the 2018 Winter Games in Pyeongchang, South Korea to skate together – live in an all-new Stars on Ice show! See America’s top medal contenders including 2017 U.S. Champion Nathan Chen, World Silver Medalist Ashley Wagner, three-time World Medalists Maia & Alex Shibutani, 2017 U.S. Champion Karen Chen, and U.S. Champion Jason Brown, plus Olympic Gold Medalists Meryl Davis & Charlie White and more of America’s finest Olympic athletes in the 2018 Stars on Ice tour at the BB&T center on Sunday April 8.
MUSIC - THE DRIFTERS
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The original R&B vocal group prototype set the stage for soul music and headlines the inaugural Reggae Meets Soul Showcase, celebrating Jamaican and American popular music. Also appearing are reggae singer/songwriter Ernie Smith, pioneering vocal group the Melodians, Annette Brissett, Kashief Lindo, Michael Russell and the Code Red Band. Catch all these acts on Sunday, April 8 at the Coral Springs Center for the Arts (2855 Coral Springs Drive) at 7p.m. with tickets ranging from $35.74 to $54.60.
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Disney On Ice presents Reach For The Stars. Sing along with Anna, Elsa and Olaf to songs like “Let it Go” and “In Summer.” Sebastian strikes up his band and the Daughters of Triton introduce Ariel in a pop montage. Get tangled up with a chorus of harmless hooligans when they get a visit from Rapunzel and Flynn Rider. Relive a tale as old as time when Belle opens her heart and the Beast’s enchanted staff take center stage for a dazzling spectacle. Disney on Ice will be arriving at American Airlines Arena Thursday, April 5, through Sunday, April 8.
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COMEDIAN - TAMMY PESCATELLI
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SKATING – CHARACTERS ON ICE
MUSICAL – WAITRESS
Brought to life by a groundbreaking all-female creative team, this irresistible new hit features original music and lyrics by 6-time Grammy nominee Sara Bareilles, a book by acclaimed screenwriter Jessie Nelson and direction by Tony Award winner Diane Paulus. Inspired by Adrienne Shelly’s beloved film, Waitress tells the story of Jenna - a waitress and expert pie maker, who dreams of a way out of her small town and loveless marriage. A baking contest in a nearby county and the town’s new doctor may offer her a chance at a fresh start, while her fellow waitresses offer their own recipes for happiness. Playing at the Broward Center for the Performing Arts from Apr 11 - 22, with tickets starting at $30. brings brassy sexiness with a female voice of witty sarcasm to her audiences, holding her own on the topics of sports, television, dating and family life using tonguein-cheek humor. She is one of the only female comedians who is relatable to every audience member-male & female. Her most recent one-hour special, Finding the funny (available on Netflix & iTunes), is just one of her new and noteworthy endeavors. Catch Tammy at the Boca Black Box on Friday and Saturday, April 6 & 7 with tickets $30, $40.
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TELEVISION - TROY: FALL OF A CITY
This is a Netflix original. Searching for the woman promised to him by Aphrodite, herdsman Paris learns his true identity and falls for Helen of Sparta, igniting the Trojan War. This retelling of the story of the 10 year siege of Troy, which occurred in the 12th or 13th century BC, stars Louis Hunter, Christiaan Schoombie, and Jonas Armstrong.
Hotspots.LGBT | 29
5. Cialis 6. Levitra Prescribing
Southern Nights
1st Anniversary Party
Photos: Stephen R. Lang
By Scott Holland
T
halia Almodovar, is the breakout star from VH1 Beauty Bar, a new reality show that follows an eclectic group of hairstylists and makeup artists from the Inwood, Manhattan hotspot House Of Dolls By Henry. Thalia’s led a private life until now. It all changed last month when VH1 released the first trailer of VH1 Beauty Bar. According to VH1, Thalia is the center of attention who commands the beauty scene with her looks and makeup expertise. The show also
36 | Hotspots.LGBT
stars Kevin who is known for his flamboyant makeover magic that has significantly grown his social media following and clientele; master colorist Vee is a former bottle girl who hopes to one day own a salon; Notik is the resident barber who constantly draws in new clients to stay ahead of the game. New to the salon are hairstylists Princess, who is determined to prove herself as a top “weaveologist,” and her best friend Rell, the shop’s loctician (dreadlock specialist). Owner Henry runs a tight ship as he manages the salon and day-to-day operations alongside his business partner Tess.
“We give our clients an experience no other salon in the city can and we party while doing it. It doesn’t get better than that. Thalia admits she likely comes off as the villain on VH1 Beauty Bar, but sees no problem in it. “I grew up watching Spanish soap operas and the villain always has the most fun,” she laughs. “Honestly, though, I’m a sweetheart once you get to know me.” It was a pleasure to sit down with Latina Thalia for this exclusive Hotspots interview:
How young were you when you first realized you were born into the wrong body, and how did you process it?
Hotspots.LGBT | 37
I was probably say at the age of 5, is when I realized there was something different. I felt like I was on the wrong line at the gym. I should have been on the girls line.
me work at fashion week and editorial projects, etc, and my career took off.
When did you start transitioning?
As the Break Out Star of Beauty Bar: a) Have you started to get recognized on the street yet
When did you start wearing girl clothing?
I was always very feminine and girly, so I was never macho. I remember being very young and wanting to wear unisex or feminine clothes. At 20 right after high school. I met someone that led me on this journey and she helped me get to my goals.
How has your family and friends accepted the process?
Friends have been really good and my father has been amazing. My mom comes from a really religious background and she doesn’t approve. I don’t find her actions to be ok, but I have to deal with it.
When and how did you get into make-up and become a make-up artist?
When I graduated high school I writ into performing arts school for acting. It was all a competition, and I didn’t like that. I always liked to paint and draw, so I decided Make up may be something I like, so I went to make up school, and I immediately took to it and I started working for Lancôme, Mac, etc. I met a guy who got 38 | Hotspots.LGBT
How did the show “Beauty Bar” come about?
A friend of mine is a producer, and she knows one of the talent agents from VH1. They had the idea of the show and the salon they were originally interested in closed. My friend introduced us and the rest is history. When I go out on the weekend, I am getting recognized a lot and getting a lot of positive feedback
b) How has your life changed?
I am super busy now, not only with more make up orbs, but I am a public figure and I have gotten back into acting and am getting jobs
Tell us something people would be surprised to know about you? That I am a really good cook. I also know how to put carpet down on a floor.
What’s ahead for Thalia?
Honestly I wish I knew, but I would love to get even more acting gig..
For more information on Thalia, follow her on Instagram/Twitter/Snapchat@DashingThalia.
TALK TABLE C E T E UND Undetectable means reaching a point where the amount of HIV in your blood is so low it can’t be measured. It is important for your health and means you have effectively no risk of passing HIV to a sexual partner.
cdc.gov/StartTalking /ActAgainstAIDS /StartTalkingHIV @TalkHIV
Mr. & Miss Pride of South Florida Pageant
Photos: Stephen R. Lang
HOTshots of the week
Courtesy of MARKSLIST.LGBT
GOIN’ TO THE CHAPEL...
u Max and his Groomsmen Chris, Ryan, Michael, Mark, Christian, & Jason
have a blast on Wilton Drive, for his Bachelor Party.
HEY MR. DEEJAY
u DJ Armin Van Burren works his magic at Winter
Music Conference party at the National Hotel.
YAAAAAASSSS!!!!
u Nick & Joe get their wheels ready
and a pre-game stretch at Stonewall’s monthly Gay Skate at Xtreme Action Park.
PALM BEACH BOYS
u Long time friends Ryan and Jon have
a great time catching up with friends at Pride of the Palm Beaches Festival.
MIXER MEN
u Home Design coworkers Fernando
& Danny have fun at the latest GFLGLCC mixer at Warsaw’s Milk Money.
HEY GURRL! GURRL!
AH
u u RuPaul’s RuPaul’s Drag Drag Race’s Race’sVanessa VanessaMateo Mateo
joined joined the the cast cast at at Southern SouthernNights Nights Fort Fort Lauderdale Lauderdale for for their theirFirst FirstAnniversary. Anniversary.
SO SO PROUD PROUD
AH AH
u uCongratulations Congratulationsto toMiss Miss&&Mr. Mr.Pride Pride
of ofSouth SouthFlorida FloridaDee DeeRanged Rangedand andRolly RollyVillaverde. Villaverde.
SEE SEE YOU YOU NEXT NEXT YEAR YEAR
u u Ultra Ultra Music Music Festival Festival set setrecords records
again again in in downtown downtown Miami Miamiand andwill will be be back back in in 2019. 2019.
SUCH SUCH BANDITS BANDITS
u uMembers Membersof ofthe theBandits Banditssoftball softballteam teamfuel fuelup up
with withAlandra AlandraMatthews Matthewsat atRumors Rumorsthe thenight night before beforeaabig biggame. game.
GRAND GRAND MARSHALS MARSHALS
u u The The Smart Smart Ride Ride were werethe theGrand GrandMarshals Marshalsof ofthis thisyear’s year’sPride Prideof ofthe thePalm PalmBeach BeachParade Parade. .
My Top 5 Pics of the Week!
Nick, behind the bar at thePUB
Michael LaFrance - Happy Birthday
Jesse Durko - An expert in Flora and Fauna 46 | Hotspots.LGBT
Toy - Behind bars for years and a happy birthday too! - Alibi
Carmine and Bob - Out and about every day.
YOU BELONG IN
PROVINCETOWN
EVERY
GAYDAY
OF THE YEAR! MARCH-APRIL-MAY
Out of Hibernation | Miss Gay USofA | Gays for Patsy | Broto Nauticon | Memorial Day JUNE
PRIDE | Cabaret Fest | ASGCC Benefit | Provincetown Film Festival JULY
4th of July | Bear Week | Secret Garden Tour | Family Week GLAD Summer Party AUGUST
Carnival: Mardi Gras by the Sea SEPTEMBER
Labor Day | Celebration of Life Concert | Swim for Life Afterglow | Gay Pilots Classic | Tennessee Williams Festival Mates Leather Weekend OCTOBER
Columbus Day Weekend | PAAM Annual Gala | Fantasia Fair Halloween NOVEMBER
Day of the Dead Performing Arts Festival | Mr. New England Leather | Lighting of the Monument & Lobster Pot Tree Festival Tis the Season for Giving (ASGCC) DECEMBER
Holly Folly | Outer Cape Chorale Concert First Light Weekend & Fireworks
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Pride of the Palm Beaches
Festival at Bryant Park
Photos: Stephen R. Lang
MIAMI BEACH T GAY PRIDE By Nick Cirillo
CELEBRATES
ITS 10TH
ANNIVERSARY!
o celebrate its 10th anniversary, Miami Beach Gay Pride today announced a dynamic duo of grand marshals – Olympic silver medalist Gus Kenworthy and NBC6 anchor and host Roxanne Vargas. The two marshals will be honored at events throughout Pride Week and will lead the loud and colorful parade down Ocean Drive on Sunday, April 8, beginning at noon. Miami Beach Gay Pride is presented by Celebrity Cruises and takes place from now through April 8 with events at venues throughout Miami Beach including a Friday night VIP gala; Saturday beach party and festival; and Sunday parade and festival. “Gus and Roxy are two preeminent public figures who well represent and support the LGBTQA community: Gus for being a role model as an out and proud sportsman who excels at his craft,and Roxy for being a prominent ally for the community and equal rights,” said Mark Fernandes, chairman of the Pride board of directors. Pride will also feature many performers including recording artists Betty Who, Thelma Houston and Taylor Dayne.
Hotspots.LGBT | 55
THELMA HOUSTON
Popstar, singer-songwriter and all-around fierce performer Betty Who, known for recent hits “I Love You Always Forever” and “Ignore Me.” will perform at 9 p.m. on Saturday, April 7, on the Festival’s main stage in Lummus Park just off Ocean Drive and 11th Street in Miami Beach. Legendary Grammy Award-winning disco, soul and R&B singer Thelma Houston will take overthe main stage on Sunday, April 8. “Thelma Houston is a classic, and has been a good friend of the LGBTQ community throughout her storied career,” said Fernandes. “Die-hard fans are going to be thrilled with her high-energy, electric performance and a whole new generation of Pridegoers are going to love her legendary sounds.” It was a pleasure to sit down with Houston for this Hotspots exclusive interview:
At what age did you start singing?
Around 3 years old. This lady that was babysitting for my mom was a piano player for a Sunday school. As she would practice her hymns, she learned that I could sing. From that time on, I did church programs and choirs, etc.
What was your first professional/paid gig?
When I started singing at this club called Big Tates. I made a whole $25 a night!
When did you know singing would be your career?
When I realized I could get paid for it. That it wasn’t just a love offering from church.
What was your first big break?
When the group I was in, the Art Reynolds Singers, got a contract and we recorded a gospel album.
Who are your mentors in the music industry?
I didn’t know any well-known entertainers, so my mentors were people in my town. However, the people I looked up to were Mahalia Jackson, Diana Washington, Sarah Vaughn, and of course Aretha Franklin, and many others from the Motown era.
How exciting was it to win the Grammy ?
I didn’t think I was going to win, as I had been nominated before. Record companies would do a lot of promotion to get their artists a Grammy. My company did not do much promotion for me, so I never thought I would win. I didn’t even go to the Grammys that year! The one regret I have in my career is not being there to receive the award. Having a Grammy, at that time, was a 56 | Hotspots.LGBT
“I have worked at many clubs in South Florida, but I have never done Pride so I am very excited. I’m very much looking forward to it.”
big achievement, and it has opened up many doors for me.
You’ve traveled around the world. Do you have a favorite city/venue?
I like to perform where people love and support me. The audience that has been most consistent from the beginning are the people in England. I also love Australia and Latin America.
Tell me something people would be surprised to know about you?
I don’t think there’s anything. I am a pretty open book. But what might surprise people is I like to refinish furniture. I am also very crafty.
Are you excited to come to South Florida and perform at Miami Beach Gay Pride? I have worked at many clubs in South Florida, but I have never done Pride so I am very excited. I’m very much looking forward to it.
Taylor Dayne
From platinum pop songs to chart-topping dance hits, Taylor Dayne is one of the most popular vocalists of the past three decades. Dayne will take to the main stage at Miami Beach Gay Pride as the headline performer for the Pride Festival at 9 p.m. on Sunday, April 8. “We’re extremely excited to have Taylor
58 | Hotspots.LGBT
Dayne bring her classic hits to Pride,” said Fernandes. , “So many of her songs are instantly identifiable. We can’t wait for Pride to ‘tell it to her heart’.” It was also a pleasure to sit down with Dayne for this Hotspots exclusive interview:
When did you realize you wanted to sing for a living?
At 4 or 5 years old I was a little munchkin running around saying I was going to be a rockand-roll star. In those days, the radio played everywhere; in the backyard, the kitchens, and when I heard the radio I sang. My first real impression of an artist was of Stevie Wonder, and from then on I was hooked.
How did it feel the first time you heard yourself singing on the radio?
It wasn’t as impactful to me as it is for other singers, but I know I was driving in my car.... And it was before I was singing under the name Taylor Dayne.
You’ve recorded so many songs. What are your favorites? I remember hearing “Love Will Lead You Back” with [Arista Records founder] Clive Davis and I thought “WOW!” but my favorite thing is not recording, it’s singing live!
Who were your inspirations in the music industry?
Whitney Houston was a label mate. She was
an inspiration with her beautiful instrument, and she made a song sellable with her incredible range. The radio was a big inspiration; it got me through all the hard times.
In 1990 you worked with Diane Warren, one of the most talented song writers of the past several decades. Tell me about that experience.
I am humbled to say Diane was stalking me before 1990, but she got 3 songs on my album that year. You don’t so much as work with Diane as she is a force of nature. You stay out of the way, let her do what she does, and be happy she wants to work with you. Diane has an incredible gift and ability to position words and songwriting.
You’ve toured all over the world. What has been your favorite gig and favorite city?
I can’t pick my favorite gig: there have been so many. I have numerous favorite cities. I just spent a month in Australia, and it was hard for me with two kids, but I did love it! I also love New York, San Fran and New Orleans!
Your talent has sustained a thirty year. How do you continue to entertain your fan base, and how do you engage new fans?
You entertain yourself by writing new material, and that translates into entertaining your fans. Lately I’ve been a little more edgy and urban, even a little more techno flavored!
You are also an actress. You’ve had roles on television, on Broadway and in feature films. How is acting different from singing? The mix definitely keeps it fun. I on a reality cooking show. I was the underdog and it was so much fun. I’m so happy I did it. Cooking is as creative as writing a song will ever be. It’s definitely art!
What would people be shocked to find out about you?
I’m a nature girl. I love hiking and outdoor activities. Also, Sundays are family day, my quiet day with my family.
What’s ahead for Taylor Dayne?
I love working. I love all aspects of it, and I get excited for new projects. I am looking at a side business right now.
Miami Beach Gay Pride
60 | Hotspots.LGBT
Miami Beach Gay Pride is an extraordinary week-long event that features a Beach Party and a Festival & Parade with more than 125 LGBTfriendly vendors and businesses, exciting celeb-
rities, musical performances, refreshments, food and a family-friendly play area. Since its inception in 2009, Miami Beach Gay Pride has grown from a neighborhood event to an event on the global stage featuring A-list celebrities such as Ross Mathews, Bebe Rexha, Mario Lopez, Elvis Duran, Iggy Azalea, Jordin Sparks, Gloria Estefan and Adam Lambert. Attendance has grown as well. An estimated 15,000 spectators turned out for the first Pride parade in 2009; an estimated 135,000 attended the event in 2017. In addition to Parade spectators, last April’s event included more than 70 parade contingencies, 35 floats including 3,000 participants. First Aid Doug Steele, Care Resource’s Lead Registered Nurse, will be administering the First Aid and Comfort Station during the Miami Beach Gay Pride Festival on Sunday, April 8, from 1210 pm. The First Aid and Comfort Station will be near the main stage located at 12th Street. According to Steele, “The Miami Beach Gay Pride Festival and Care Resource want to make sure that all attendees have a safe and fun event. Care Resource’s medical crew will be on hand throughout the festival to help with minor injuries and to help those that had just too much ‘fun-and-sun.’ Please look for our tent, stop by if you are not feeling well or to meet a member of your community’s healthcare team.” Care Resource is a 501(c) (3) nonprofit organization and a Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC) with seven (7) facilities located in
Midtown Miami, Little Havana-(Miami-Dade), Miami Beach, Coconut Grove and Fort Lauderdale. The health center provides comprehensive health and support services to address the full health care needs of our pediatric, adolescent and adult populations. For more information, visit careresource.org.
For more information visit miamibeachgaypride.com.
62 | Hotspots.LGBT
Winter Music Conference
Party at National Hotel
Photos: Stephen R. Lang
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food for thought
molto south beach
“Located one block west off the Lincoln Road pedestrian mall is this hidden gem. The rustic decor is very stylish and sophisticated, with a huge bar taking up most of the modern space.” |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
By Amanda Austin
When the iconic Palace Bar on Ocean Drive closed for relocation in July 2017, gay South Beach locals were left with a huge void in food and entertainment options. Former palace bartender, Ray Oh, saw an opportunity with an existing restaurant, Molto, and took over the day-to-day operations as
76 | Hotspots.LGBT
the general manager. Work began immediately to transform the little pizza joint into the new place to see and be seen for both LGBTQ locals and tourists alike. The outcome…well if “Cheers” and “Coyote Ugly” had a queer lovechild, it would be Molto! Located one block west off the Lincoln Road pedestrian
Molto South Beach 1237 Lincoln Road Miami Beach, FL. 305.397.8062 moltosouthbeach.com or facebook.com/moltosouthbeach. mall is this hidden gem. The rustic decor is very stylish and sophisticated, with a huge bar taking up most of the modern space. During afternoons and early evenings, Molto is a perfect place to stop by for Happy Hour and grab some food and drinks and mingle with the hot clientele. But hang around, because later in the evening, things get cranked up with live DJs, drag shows, hot shirtless bartenders and queens dancing on the bar-top! Molto serves traditional Italian comfort food and does it really well. Their
menu consists of all the expected Italian appetizers like fried calamari, cheese sticks and meat balls but also throws in some other delights like tuna carpaccio and baba ganoush. A huge variety of hand tossed pizza is sure to tempt anyone to abandon their low-carb
South Beach Diet for the evening. The menu continues with a selection of fresh, delicious salads and an assortment of hardy entrées fit for a Queen, including numerous authentic pasta dishes like Nonna used to make. Chicken Parmesan and a ribeye and a New York strip steak round out the menu. I’ve been to Molto many times and the food, service and drinks are always on point. On this particular visit, “dragtender” and South Beach diva, Noel Leon, served me at the bar. I ordered the Caprese appetizer which gives a modern twist to the classic Caprese tomato and mozzarella salad. Their version is served with prosciutto and decadent Buratta cheese... amazing! Next, I moved on to Molto’s meat lovers pizza. A thin, crispy crust is topped with bacon, prosciutto, pepperoni and ground beef. How they put all of that on a pizza and it doesn’t turn out greasy is beyond me…Perfecto! The portions are huge and the prices are in line with most restaurants offering this type of fare.
Molto opens early for lunch every day and stays open late into the evening, but the hours vary daily. While you enjoy the food and hand crafted cocktails, you will also be entertained by revolving DJs, drag shows performed by some of South Florida’s best entertainers and viewing parties of gay TV. Check their website or Facebook page for exact hours and daily events. Convenient on street parking right in front of the restaurant is available as well as a huge pay parking lot directly behind the building. Parking is not a challenge here!
Hotspots.LGBT | 77
EATING OUT A SAMPLE OF FORT LAUDERDALE’S FAVORITE
RESTAURANTS ASIA BAY 1111 E. Las Olas Blvd. Fort Lauderdale asiabayrestaurants.com 954-848-9900 Elegant riverfront dining with a menu of Japanese and Thai dishes including creative sushi rolls. BEEFCAKES (at Boardwalk) 1721 N. Andrews Avenue Ft. Lauderdale BoardwalkBar.com 954-463-6969 Open daily from 5 p.m. to 2 a.m. The best burgers and chicken wings in town. BONA ITALIAN RESTAURANT 2468 Wilton Dr., Wilton Manors bonaitalianrestaurant.com 954-565-7222 Under new ownership! Fresh made Italian food. Signature dishes include Fazzoletti, (pasta purses with fontina cheese, cream sauce, peas/bacon), Chicken Cyriac or traditional Eggplant Parmigiana. CEVICHE BY THE SEA 2823 E. Oakland Park Blvd. Oakland Park CevicheByTheSea.com 954-999-0751 Intimate seafood and Peruvian cuisine. Recommended as
a “truly remarkable dining experience.” Reservations recommended. Open for lunch. Happy Hour M-F, 5-7 p.m. EAT 2150 Wilton Dr., Wilton Manors Eatinwiltonmanors.com 954-626-0722 Menu offers everything from salmon to Chef Rosario’s meatloaf. Great $10 specialty drink menu. FLIP FLOPS DOCKSIDE EATERY 3051 NE 32nd Avenue Ft. Lauderdale FlipFlopsDocksideEatery.com 954-567-1672 Relax on the dock while sipping a specialty cocktail or eating a fresh, made-to-order item from the menu. GEORGIE’S ALIBI & MONKEY BAR 2266 Wilton Dr., Wilton Manors AlibiWiltonManors.com 954-565-2526 Relaxed patio atmosphere with a full menu offering awardwinning burgers, wings, hot & cold sandwiches, sliders, flat bread, pizzas and fresh fish, shrimp and chicken entrees. Full bar. Check web site for weekend brunch entertainment schedules.
KALUZ KaluzRestaurant.com 3300 E. Commercial Blvd. Fort Lauderdale 954-772-2209 Modern American dining with spectacular waterfront views from an elegant dining room or from a more casual patio and outdoor bar. LIPS 1421 E. Oakland Park Blvd., Oakland Park Fladragshow.com 954-567-0987 A restaurant/cabaret that “dresses up” to entertain its guests! Fabulous drag and tons of fun! MIND YOUR MANORS 2045 Wilton Dr.,Wilton Manors 754-223-2172 MindYourManorsPub.com A fun, relaxing garden pub and wine bar serving comfort food and hospitality. Enjoy a wide range of creative cocktails, craft beers and a very unique wine list. NABU AMERICAN FUSION BUFFET 3485 N. Federal Hwy. Ft. Lauderdale 954-568-2208 NabuAmericanFusionBuffet.com This place offers it all: Japanese,
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HOTSPOTS READERS ENJOY DINING OUT!
To advertise or be listed in this section, call 954-928-1862
EATING OUT American, Italian and Chinese. Incredible buffet. Q BAR 2362 N. Federal Highway, Fort Lauderdale qbarfl.com 954-565-2229 Live jazz & blues acts perform at this gastropub serving gourmet burgers & Creole-type dishes. ROSIE’S BAR & GRILL 2449 Wilton Dr., Wilton Manors rosiesbng.com 954-563-0123 A Wilton Drive favorite, this place is known for its non-stop party every “Sunday Funday” with live DJs playing great music. Great burgers, fresh seafood and amazing Sunday Brunch10 a.m. – 2 p.m.
RUMORS BAR 2426 Wilton Dr., Wilton Manors RumorsBarWiltonManors.com 954-565-8851 Full bar, restaurant and entertainment venue serving fresh, local ingredients in delicious dishes by awardwinning Cutthroat Kitchen chef Robyn Almodovar. SAGE 2378 N. Federal Highway Fort Lauderdale sagecafe.net 954-565-2229 Chic, intimate bistro delivering French country cooking in a romantic locale with patio seating. SHOOTERS WATERFRONT 3033 NE 32nd Avenue Fort Lauderdale
ShootersWaterfront.com 954-566-2855 Popular, spacious dining with a comprehensive menu and dining right on the Intracoastal. TEE JAY’S THAI SUSHI 2254 Wilton Dr., Wilton Manors teejaythaisushi.com 954-537-7774 Casual locale for Thai & Japanese eats with Asian decorative touches and some traditional low tables. THAI SPICE 1514 E. Commercial Blvd., Fort Lauderdale thaispicefla.com 954-771-4535 Voted the “Best Thai Restaurant in South Florida 2015” by the Sun-Sentinel, this gem dishes up Thai
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EATING OUT Continued classics and specials by owner/chef Michael Tatton on a huge menu that includes Pan-Asian fare & steaks in a soothing space. Happy Hour with half-off appetizers and drinks from 5 to 7 p.m. Monday through Friday. ZUCKERELLO’S ITALIAN RESTAURANT 3017 E. Commercial Blvd., Fort Lauderdale zuckerellos.com 954-776-4282 Familiar Italian pastas and flavorful mainstays (plus early-bird specials) are offered up in this warm, inviting restaurant.
GFLGLCC
Mixer at Warsaw’s Milk Money
Photos: Stephen R. Lang
By Chris Azzopardi Historically speaking, the most culturally influential LGBTQ-focused films have been independent, slow-rollout, arthousescreened touchstones, from Best Picture Oscar contender “Brokeback Mountain” in 2005 to Best Picture Oscar winner “Moonlight,” released in 2016. Within and since that decade, and thanks to queer-cinema trailblazers such as Gus Van Sant’s “My Own Private Idaho,” “Paris Is Burning,” “Torch Song Trilogy” and “Philadelphia,” queer storytelling has only abounded: Universal Pictures’ indie division, Focus Features, released “Milk,” an account of activist Harvey Milk in 2008; two years later, in 2010, the studio rolled out “The Kids Are All Right,” starring Annette Bening and Julianne Moore as lesbian parents; “Weekend” garnered much acclaim after its 2011 release via Sundance Selects; Focus released notables like “Dallas Buyers Club,” featuring 86 | Hotspots.LGBT
Jared Leto as a trans woman, and “Beginners,” with an affecting performance from Christopher Plummer as a gay late-comer; and last year, “Call Me By Your Name” roused critics and Academy Award voters alike, recently earning the film an Oscar for Best Adapted Screenplay and plenty of rightful prestige for Timothée Chalamet’s star-making turn as queer, lovelorn Elio. It was just a matter of time before a major “big six” distributor would take queer stories to the next level with an all-out same-sex romance, and that time is now. In many ways, 20th Century Fox’s “Love, Simon” is the first of its kind: a classically helmed John Hughes-echoing rom-com, with two gay teens connecting via email, confronting their queerness together, and finding their happy, out-and-proud endings. The best part? Some teen in Small Town, America, where oftentimes
queer indies don’t get a theatrical release, can see him or herself reflected on the big screen: “Love, Simon” is opening wide – in a whopping 2,400plus theaters (“Brokeback Mountain” opened in 683 theaters, while “Call Me By Your Name” capped at 914 theaters). Known for a breadth of screen work that dates back to WB’s teen drama “Dawson’s Creek,” premiering in 1998, and which now includes hunky CW superheroes, writer, director and super producer Greg Berlanti hasn’t just observed the waves of change that knocked down the doors for “Love, Simon” – he’s been making some of those same waves himself. Here, Berlanti, who directed “Love, Simon,” discusses shooting a Whitney Houston musical sequence for the film, what most people don’t know about casting queer actors for queer roles, and how far Hollywood has come since his last gay-themed film, 2000’s “The Broken Hearts Club: A Romantic Comedy.”
You have a husband (pro soccer player Robbie Rogers) now, so I think you’re good. It all worked out.
Whose reaction of the film so far has meant the most to you?
My father’s. It brought up a lot of conversations about us that we hadn’t had in years. I’m 45 years old, and he suddenly asked me about my high school years and being gay and what that meant in a way that he never could before, because he could ask it in terms of the movie. It made me realize something that I’m not sure I was totally aware of when I was making it, which is the kind of conversations it might stimulate between parents and children.
This is a great ice breaker for so many young LGBTQ kids to talk about queer issues with their parents. And old kids like me. (Laughs)
Ha! While we’re on the topic of old kids: Was the “I Want to Dance With Somebody (Who Loves Me)” musical sequence a shout out to us old gay kids?
> Director Greg Berlanti
What scene in “Love, Simon” would’ve been the most pivotal to you as a closeted kid?
That is a great question. I haven’t been asked that today! I think the kiss. The happy ending was one that, while we were shooting, I found it affecting me in a way that I didn’t realize it could. It was more substantial than I thought it would be, and it still makes me feel that way. And every time I watch it with an audience I still feel that way. It’s the scene that brings me most back to imagining I was a 16- or 17-year-old kid.
And how if you’d seen that kiss, all the boyfriends you could’ve had. (Laughs) I missed my best years.
It was. If you were to ask Nick Robinson (who plays Simon Spier) which scene he dreaded the most and what scene I was the most excited about, it would be that one. I can say to the world: “I’m done now. I have a Whitney Houston musical number.” (Laughs) I’m not sure if there’s any other art I can do after that that could ever come close. So, I was really excited for that day. And there’s a coming out scene in the movie that was shot the same day, so I kept referring to it as the gayest day on the schedule. (Laughs)
For you, why does that Whitney song resonate? It does remind me of my youth. I just kept coming back to that one. The purpose of it in the movie is, he’s going through a lot and it’s not until the end that he really finally both accepted himself and is ready to announce to the world who he is. Because this wasn’t in the book (2015’s “Simon vs. the Homo Sapiens Agenda”) and this wasn’t in the original draft of the script, I wanted
Hotspots.LGBT | 87
“There were definitely times I would have executives and casting people kick actors back to me and say, ‘Doesn’t he seem a little soft?’ ‘Doesn’t she seem a little tough or hard?’” to show the audience what he imagined he might feel one day.
Why do you think it’s taken as long as it has to get a film like “Love, Simon” off the ground?
I remember when TV was different, and it was harder and then that changed. I think arthouse has, throughout, been doing extraordinary work and the work there is magical and timeless. But mainstream studios make fewer of them, they make fewer bets, they take longer to get made, and I think now they’ve realized they have to catch up with television and digital platforms and all these other places that are making content that looks and feels like us and like the world we’re all living in. And if movie theaters wanna survive, they’ve got to tell stories that feel like today.
the writers at the time, and all the producers, were straight. I was the first gay person to get involved with the development of the material, and they wanted to do it. They believed in it. And that just shows how important allies are to all of this.
Kids who are the age of your 2-year-old, Caleb, aren’t gonna know a time when queer mainstream, major-studio fare didn’t exist. Interesting to think that, right?
I hope so. I hope there are so many more too, and that a few years from now people can’t remember what the first one was. That would be my real hope, I think. In some ways, I love when it kind of gets lost to the windfall of other stories.
You’ve certainly left your mark on LGBTQ characters Were there any hurdles you had to jump to get on TV. After “Love, Simon,” are you interested in this made? infiltrating the film arena with more of your queer I actually think Fox 2000 and 20th Century Fox powers? both should be really celebrated. They were making this movie and I applied for the job. I read the script and I asked them, “You know, there’s never been a teen film like this, of this nature, made by one of the six major studios in this way before – are you guys really doing this?” They said, “Yes, we’re making it, and we’re making it next March. We don’t need to know who the star is. We’re committing the money now. We are making this film. We love this story, and we think it deserves to be made.” And every one of those executives and 88 | Hotspots.LGBT
I think if you’re gonna do stories about people and about the human condition your best asset is to tap into that part of yourself, and that’s because it’s really the thing that you bring to the table, that nobody else can bring. So, if I were to make more movies, especially original material, those are always going to be the stories that speak to me and the themes that resonate the most.
Where do you stand on LGBTQ actors exclusively playing LGBTQ roles, and how much of the queer
community is a part of “Love, Simon?”
I have a lot of different feelings about it. I never ask. I don’t ask people their personal business, and I don’t even think Producers Guild of America-wise I can ask anybody when they come in the room to audition. When people consider this conversation, they have to consider those things too. I’m not asking people about their personal life when they walk in the room, so there’s that part. There’s the other part of, I’m old enough to remember when the real challenge was casting LGBT people at all, as any straight character. There were definitely times I would have executives and casting people kick actors back to me and say, “Doesn’t he seem a little soft?” “Doesn’t she seem a little tough or hard?” Which was code for too gay. I remember how upset I would get about that. I felt like, “Well, no; if they seem like the character, they seem like the character,” and so that was one of the fights we were fighting. Finally, the element of when you’re dealing with young people, I think they’re still in real life figuring themselves out. With all that being said, we were cognizant, and I was really cognizant, of wanting real representation in the movie. I just didn’t know when I started out where it would necessarily be, and we have straight, gay and bisexual actors in this movie playing all sorts of different parts and I think that’s the real representation. It’s one that I’m proud of.
“The last shot of those two individuals represents two very different walks of life of the gay experience....It was really important to me that (Ethan) have a poignancy and a point of view and a strength that Simon maybe wasn’t ready to exhibit.”
How do you find queer actors like the ones in “Love, Simon” if you can’t and don’t ask about their sexuality? Sometimes you find out after the fact. Sometimes you don’t find out until after they decide they want to talk about it to the press. Keiynan Lonsdale (who plays Bram) is an example of someone who won the part because he was the best person for the role. I worked with him on “The Flash” and we were friendly, and he had recently, before we made the film, come out to me, but he wasn’t out publicly and chose to come out right after we finished making the film. The thing I’m hyper conscious of as a producer and a director? I never want a studio, or anybody, to tell me they don’t want to cast somebody because of what that person might be in real life. That’s the thing I can truly protect against.
Ethan, the gay, black character who has a major influence on Simon’s coming out, was written specifically for the film, right?
I added the character. When I read the script, he was not in the script. I felt like even at some of the smaller schools, there’s more than one kid who happens to be gay. The last shot of those two individuals represents two very different walks of life of the gay experience. I remembered what it was like when I got to Northwestern, where I went to college, and I wasn’t ready to come out and how brave I thought some of the kids in my theater program were. They were wonderful examples to me every day and just lived so bravely. I remembered thinking to myself, “Why don’t I have their courage?” So although it has to be centered on a person, I didn’t just want it about Simon’s gay experience. I also wanted to make sure that the additional gay characters we had weren’t just there for laughs. It was really important to me that (Ethan) have a poignancy and a point of view and a strength that Simon maybe wasn’t ready to exhibit.
Based on your other work over the years, how have you seen the tide change for queer representation in media? What can you do with gay characters now that you couldn’t do in the late ’90s? I mean, everything. It’s so different. There’s so
90 | Hotspots.LGBT
much openness, and part of that comes with all the young people who are coming up now and what great storytellers they are and how they grew up in a different world. They’re even more open and more brave and more honest, and they want to take all of these stories to the next level. I’m excited for the world to see “Love, Simon,” but I’m really excited to see what happens next. I really believe it’s just the beginning, and I didn’t feel that way when I was bringing “The Broken Hearts Club” around 20 years ago. I remember feeling like, “OK, the world,
it. It was always going to be a conversation – if not with them, then with their agents. Now, people were just supportive from the beginning. They understood the value of making a film like this. You know, every Sunday I’d go to dinner with the young cast, sort of like dad taking them out to dinner. They started a text chain, or whatever you call it – what do you call it? (Long pause) A group chat! They started a group chat. And I titled it “the kids” – and I didn’t realize that when you title something on a group chat that everybody can see it
it might be awhile.” But I don’t feel that way anymore. I feel like the studio system knows it has work to do to catch up.
(laughs), so it’s a good thing I didn’t call it something else. So the kids and I would go to dinner on Sundays and it was just amazing to me to sit and listen to them talk about the way they perceive the world, and so much is different. But the thing that is still the same: the human heart.
How was the reaction to “The Broken Hearts Club” different than what you’re seeing and hearing regarding “Love, Simon?”
We had to work twice as hard to get to 300 theaters. And when I talked to Nick about this role, it never came up once about playing gay. When I talked to any actors back then (the film starred Zach Braff, Dean Cain, Andrew Keegan, Timothy Olyphant, Billy Porter, Justin Theroux and Ben Weber) about playing a character who happened to be gay, they were all cognizant of 92 | Hotspots.LGBT
As editor of Q Syndicate, the international LGBTQ wire service, Chris Azzopardi has interviewed a multitude of superstars, including Meryl Streep, Mariah Carey and Beyoncé. Reach him via his website at www.chris-azzopardi.com and on Twitter (@chrisazzopardi).
9th Annual Land Rover Palm Beach
INTERNATIONAL GAY POLO TOURNAMENT
Attracts World-Class Polo Professionals
f you're looking for top polo talent, look no further than the upcoming 9th A n n u a l L a n d Rove r Pa l m B e a c h International Gay Polo Tournament. Seasoned polo professionals from USA, South Africa and Argentina will quarterback the four teams competing in the 9th Annual Land Rover Palm Beach International Gay Polo Tournament, to be held at the International Polo Club Palm Beach on April 7. The professional polo players will add signi icant ire-power to their teams vying for a chance to capture the Senators Cup or Founders Cup. Americans and South Florida residents Matt Coppola, Joey Casey and Tiany Busch will lead their respective teams against those of Sugar Erskine of South Africa and Argentina's golden boy Nacho Badiola. " I t s a y s a l o t a b o u t t h e professionals who support and
96 | Hotspots.LGBT
participate in diversity events like the Gay Polo League tournament, and we recognize and appreciate their willingness to be a part of our event," said Chip McKenney, Founder and President of GPL. Famed South African 6-goal professional Stuart "Sugar" Erskine will lead the charge on Caroline Moran's Goshen Hill. Erskine grew up
in a rural area of South Africa and was introduced to polo through his father, Andrew. After inishing school, he headed to the United States to establish his polo career. Several generous colleagues helped Stuart transition from South African to US Polo, and after much hard work, he became known and respected as a talented and accomplished player. Erskine has been on winning teams in the US Open, Camara, Gold Cup, Paci ic Coast Open, East Coast Open, Ylvisaker Cup, Joe Barry Cup and Silver Cup. Argentine professional 6-goaler Ignacio "Nacho" Badiola will serve as the frontman for RSM US, LLP's team. Badiola grew up in Coronel Suarez, the Argentine town dubbed "the Capital of Polo" due to its long history with the sport and talented players. Nacho grew up watching his competitive polo-playing father, Juan Badiola, and soon started playing alongside him at age six. Drawn to the game for its speed and strategy, Badiola travels the world playing competitively from Argentina to Europe. He played with the Lucchese team in 2015 and helped secure victory at the Joe Barry Memorial Cup. As the point person for the Seminole Casino Coconut Creek team, 4-goal pro Matt Coppola will assume a familiar position for the tournament. A Wellington resident and a frequent player at International Polo Club Palm Beach in high-goal seasons, the young Coppola has accrued numerous titles to add to his family legacy. Born into an equestrian and polo family, Coppola has competed in numerous high-pro ile events including the Ylvisaker Cup, the All Pro Polo League in Argentina and the U.S. Open Polo Championships. Coppola's family owns and operates The Tackeria, an iconic retailer in the
global equestrian community, since 1975. Matt's father, Anthony Coppola, is the current P r e s i d e n t o f t h e U n i t e d S t a t e s Po l o Association. Catherine Malone's team, Cedar Crest Stables, will be led by local polo professionals Joey Casey, owner of Palm City Polo, and fellow pro Tiany Busch, manager at Vero Beach Polo Club. Four-goaler Casey is a third-generation polo player and earned a 7-goal handicap at one point, bringing more than 30 years of p ro f e s s i o n a l p o l o e x p e r i e n c e t o t h e tournament. Casey successfully competed in high-goal tournaments around the world, i n c l u d i n g n u m e r o u s U. S . O p e n P o l o Championships. Career highlights include being the three-time winner of the C.V. Whitney Cup, champion of the USPA Gold Cup and the the Paci ic Coast Open. Palm City Polo Club is the home club of the GPL Polo Club, and Casey has been instrumental in mentoring and guiding GPL's growth. A 10-year veteran of the game, Vero Beach native and 1.5-goaler Busch was introduced to polo through her father Peter Busch of Anheuser-Busch fame and has developed into a highly respected icon in women's polo. Busch began playing competitively at the age of 17 for her father's team, Michelob Ultra, and ultimately used that point in her career to rise to the top of the women's rankings. A highlight of her playing career includes securing the overtime win in the 2012 Women's US Open in Houston, Texas and being named MVP of the tournament. This win led to her feature on the cover of Polo Magazine in January 2013. Make sure to use our hashtag on social media! #GPL2018 For more information, please visit www.gaypolo.com
Hotspots.LGBT | 97
Pride of the Palm Beaches
Parade in Lake Worth
Photos: Stephen R. Lang
BICEPS
HOT BODIES
FLEX THOSE TWIN PEAKS!
W
hether your body type is long and lean (a swimmer's build) or thick and compact (a muscle bear), you've got to admit that having a solid set of pumped arms will capture just about everyone's attention. This week let's devote a little time to strengthening and building biceps, the front of the upper arms.
104 | Hotspots.LGBT
by Tom Bonanti Some muscle groups such as back and chest need to be exercised with many movements, some others with a few. For building biceps, the curl is just about the only exercise you can do, and it's all you really need for mounds of upperarm power. The four exercises I refer to this week comprise a thorough biceps workout. Pay attention to your form and don't overdo the amount of weight.
The front barbell curl is perfect for taking The front barbell curl is perfect for taking the biceps through their full range of motion. the biceps through their full range of motion. Stand grasping a barbell or EZ curl bar palms Stand grasping a barbell or EZ curl bar palms up in front of the thighs. Proceed to curl the up in front of the thighs. Proceed to curl the bar up until the biceps meet your forearms. bar up until the biceps meet your forearms. Pause, squeeze the positive upper Pause, squeeze the positive upper contraction extra hard, then lower in a slow contraction extra hard, then lower in a slow deliberate manner to starting position to get deliberate manner to starting position to get the benefit of the negative phase of the the benefit of the negative phase of the movement. Perform 3 sets of eight to twelve movement. Perform 3 sets of eight to twelve repetitions. Make sure to stretch your biceps repetitions. Make sure to stretch your biceps between each set. This will aid recovery and between each set. This will aid recovery and speed growth by bringing extra blood to Concentration dumbbell curls allow you to speed growth by bringing extra blood to Concentration dumbbell curls allow you to stressed muscle fibers. isolate each bicep and make it work hard stressed muscle fibers. isolate each bicep and make it work hard without the help of the other muscle groups. without the help of the other muscle groups. Kneeling on the left knee, grasp a dumbbell Kneeling on the left knee, grasp a dumbbell palm up in the right hand just off the floor, palm up in the right hand just off the floor, elbow against the inner right thigh. Proceed elbow against the inner right thigh. Proceed to curl the weight up until bicep meets to curl the weight up until bicep meets forearm. Squeeze and pause, then lower to forearm. Squeeze and pause, then lower to starting position slowly. Perform eight to starting position slowly. Perform eight to twelve reps, and then switch the weight to the twelve reps, and then switch the weight to the left hand for another set kneeling on the right left hand for another set kneeling on the right knee. Perform three sets with each arm. knee. Perform three sets with each arm.
Standing dumbbell curls are great for Standing dumbbell curls are great for exercising each bicep separately. Stand exercising each bicep separately. Stand grasping a dumbbell palm forward in the grasping a dumbbell palm forward in the right hand. Proceed to curl the weight up right hand. Proceed to curl the weight up until biceps meets forearm. Pause, squeeze until biceps meets forearm. Pause, squeeze the contraction, and then slowly lower to Isometric presses allow you to stretch, the contraction, and then slowly lower to Isometric presses allow you to stretch, starting position. Perform eight to twelve work and pose at the same time! Standing, work and pose at the same time! Standing, starting position. Perform eight to twelve reps, and then switch the weight to the left curl the right arm to a 90-degree angle, then curl the right arm to a 90-degree angle, then reps, and then switch the weight to the left hand for another set. Perform 3 sets with grasp the wrist with the left hand. Press down hand for another set. Perform 3 sets with grasp the wrist with the left hand. Press down each arm. Don't be surprised if one bicep is with the left hand while the right hand pushes each arm. Don't be surprised if one bicep is with the left hand while the right hand pushes stronger or bigger than the other, this up, feeling the biceps contract. Hold for 20 stronger or bigger than the other, this up, feeling the biceps contract. Hold for 20 exercise will help promote symmetry and seconds, then release. Perform five seconds, then release. Perform five exercise will help promote symmetry and allow the weaker muscle to catch up. repetitions then swap arms. allow the weaker muscle to catch up. repetitions then swap arms. ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||| |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
u Contact TrainerTomB@aol.com with all your training questions. Set up a free consultation u Contact TrainerTomB@aol.com with all your training questions. Set up a free consultation with Tom (954) 557-1119 and checkout www.pumpnincgym.com. with Tom (954) 557-1119 and checkout www.pumpnincgym.com.
Hotspots.LGBT | 105
WELCOME TO YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD URGENT CARE CENTER
FAREWELL FLU Once flu season hits, anyone can catch it. And when you’re sick, you just want to feel like yourself again. For our neighbors, we’re bringing quality care closer to home — so you can get back to being you again.
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PETER THIEL BY D’ANNE WITKOWSKI
T
here’s a serial bomber at large in Austin, Texas. Two people have been killed and at least three injured in four separate bombing incidents. The target of these bombs appear to be black and brown people. Once upon a time this would have been front page news across the country. But the Trump presidency has been such a horror show that the second coming of Ted Kaczynski is being treated like an aside outside of Texas. And that’s why I hate investor and PayPal founder Peter Thiel. Okay, wait a minute. Let me back up. I don’t hate Thiel. But I do not like him. At all. I think he’s a pretty horrible person. And, to be clear, I’m not blaming the bombings on him. (Although if it does turn out to be Thiel then you read it here first!) But the fact that Thiel not only backed Trump in the 2016 election, but is still backing him now over a year into this disaster of a presidency shows that Thiel lacks a certain something. That something being integrity, or morality or compassion for people who aren’t billionaires and are actually suffering under Trump’s hateful and petty administration. But back to Thiel. Thiel, a gay man, backs a president who has done everything he can to roll back advances in LGBTQ rights, because Thiel can afford to. Literally. It reminds me of a certain powerful lesbian named Mary Cheney during a time when her dad was the vice president in an administration that was openly hostile to LGBTQ people. So lucky for her that she was insulated from all of that through power and wealth. During a recent interview with Maria Bartiromo of Fox News Thiel said, ”Our greatest political problem is the problem of political correctness.” Said the white rich guy who sued Gawker media out of existence for daring to publish that he is gay. I’m not saying that outing people
is great, but it appears that Thiel’s sexual orientation was not a secret. And that his fire and fury lawsuit was literally inspired by speech he did not like kinda makes his whole “political correctness” stance look like bs Lambasting “political correctness” is the go-to for sexists and racists and homophobes alike when complaining that “you can’t even tell a gal she has nice tits anymore,” or “it’s reverse racism that only black people are allowed to use the N-word” or “can you believe my kid got detention for calling someone a fag?” What Thiel really means is that there is too much liberal politics in Silicon Valley. Such liberal political dominance, says Thiel, has made it a very “totalitarian place” that isn’t open to opposing ideas. Ideas like, “The giant baby-man from the ‘you’re fired’ show on TV who rage-Tweets at the FBI all day instead of reading national security briefings and who has made the White House into a veritable ‘Keeping Up With the Trumpashians’ is a great president. ” In other news, Thiel says that Bitcoin is going to be the next big thing. Be sure to stock up so you have enough money to compensate for the civil rights you stand to lose under Trump.
D’Anne Witkowski is a poet, writer and comedian living in Michigan with her wife and son. She has been writing about LGBT politics for over a decade. Follow her on Twitter @MamaDWitkowski.
114 | Hotspots.LGBT
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IS YOUR BUSINESS LISTED? Register at www.MarksList.LGBT
uSpotlight Ad of the Week
To Place Your Directory or Classified Ad Call Jim at 954-928-1862 ext. 14 or Email Jim@Hotspots.LGBT Hotspots.LGBT | 125
Mark’s List Marketplace u HELP WANTED CLUB FORT LAUDERDALE PHOTO SHOOT CASTING CALL - $250
We are looking for guys of all ages ( 18 & over ) and ethnicities for our next ad campaign with well-known photographer David Vance. You don’t have to be a “Greek God”, just in decent shape (in a swimsuit) and photogenic. We are looking for diverse types (daddies, jocks, bears, regular guys, etc.) The photos will contain partial nudity (no full frontal), so you must be comfortable in your own skin, with the nature of our business and homosexuality. Contact us at: clubftlauderdale@aol.com for more information or call 954.525.3344 and speak with a member of the management team.
PART TIME HELP NEEDED
Rainbow Services, a Home Care Company (Lic. #233895) has openings for both house cleaners and home care aides including companionship, assist with errands, light meal prep and other non-medical needs of our clients. Please email info@rainbowsvcs. com with resume or list of skills & experience.
CLUB FORT LAUDERDALE NOW HIRING
We are looking for a few good men to join our team. Verifiable customer experience is required. MUST PASS A DRUG TEST. The position entails a LOT of cleaning during your shift. We are open 24/7, so you must have a flexible schedule. We offer competitive wages and excellent health benefits. Submit application and resume to the front desk. 110 NW 5th Ave. Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33311. 954-525-3344 www.clubftl.com
u FOR SALE BROWARD WORTHINGTON POOL OPERATOR
Now accepting applications for Pool operator part time or Full time w/light maintenance. Pool certification a plus. 543 North Birch Rd.
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PART TIME HELP NEEDED
Rainbow Services, a Home Care Company (Lic. #233895) has openings for both house cleaners and home care aides including companionship, assist with errands, light meal prep and other nonmedical needs of our clients. Please email info@ rainbowsvcs.com with resume or list of skills & experience.
126 | Hotspots.LGBT
FORT LAUDERDALE
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u VACATION RENTALS “FILL THE VACANCY RATES”
Calypso Inn B&B Wilton Manors King and Queen rooms mid week special. Valid Sundays through Thursdays, any two consecutive nights $199 plus taxes. Must mention this advertisement during reservation and offer is based on availability. Not Valid on Holidays. 954.605.3561
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Hotspots.LGBT | 127
Mark’s List Marketplace
LARGE TOWNHOME WITH POOL EAST FORT LAUDERDALE
Beautiful two bedroom townhome in quiet 5-plex. 5 Minutes to beach and I-95. Large sit-in kitchen with center island, central air, ceiling fans, washer/ dryer in unit, dishwasher and more. Small pet ok. Great neighbors and neighborhood. Master bedroom has walk in closet and sliding glass doors to private balcony. $1550./mo. 954-253-1929. Photos at: www. yourperfectapartment.com
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Live in office space. Full kitchen and bath, approx. 800 sq. ft. LONG LEASE. Call 954-786-0287
u RENTALS - OAKLAND PARK OAKLAND PARK NEAR SCANDALS
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W/D, dishwasher, many closets, large square footage, tile throughout, large backyard, fully fenced for pet, small dog ok. No smoking. $1400./mo. plus F/L/S. Water & garbage included. 954-579-1286
u ROOMMATES - BROWARD OTHER PARKLAND
Furnished Room Available in Parkland Golf and CC-Parkland. $1,000 per month includes all utilities. Private Bath, Garage and W/D. Gated and Guarded with 2 community pools. No Drugs. 561-714-2264 128 | Hotspots.LGBT
Mark’s List Marketplace u ROOMMATES - OAKLAND PARK AMAZING RESORT-LIKE ATMOSPHERE
Share a 3BD/2BA house with pool, hot tub and a great atmosphere. 11x16.5 room w/11ft. closet. Unfurnished $800/Mo. Newly renovated. What’s the catch? You must be a quality individual: responsible, professional, mature, employed, clean and respectful. incl. ALL utilities. MUST BE NEAT 954-980-1123. Avail. 5/1
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u LICENSED MASSAGE MASSAGE BY MARK
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Offering Swedish, Lomi Lomi, Sports and Deep Tissue Massage for Men at Affordable Rates in a comfortable and Private Massage studio located in Wilton Manors on NE 26th Street, Same Day appointments can mostly be accommodated. Great New Specials Available call for details. Gift Certificates Available. Call Jim at 954-600-5843 or visit my website at www.massagebyjim.com License MM22293. ALL NEW AFFORDABLE PRICING AVAILABLE
Need a professional to talk to?...Since 1999, providing clients a safe, insightful, confidential, environment, to explore thoughts, feelings and decisions. Free initial phone consultation. Individual & couples welcome. In Hallandale 954-270-4226 or AskDocRon@aol.com
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Hotspots.LGBT | 129
Mark’s List Marketplace
MIDTOWN MIAMI MASSAGE
Full body massage. 65 min. $45. 95 min $70. Out calls start at $65. I have 38, 5 star Google reviews. Work on both men, women and couples. Body shaving & trimming starts at $40. Over 20 yrs. exp. Nelson 305-905-5397 MA 0006625
MASSAGE/SKIN CARE/WAXING/MANSCAPING
In & out travel to resorts or homes. Private studio located at Hollywood Blvd. & 95. Massage/Facials/ Waxing www.massagemp.com 305-331-1010 Miguel MA0025781
MASSAGE BY STEVE
Have a great Swedish or deep tissue massage. Very private quiet and clean. 1/hr $50 and 1/2 hr $25. Steve 954-533-2245 home phone no text. Lic MA16988
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Body shaving and trimming in the comfort of your own home. Friendly, no attitude, Broward only. $50.00 per session 9AM-9PM, call Michael at 754-222-6623
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Waxing, facials, trimming, shaving and body scrubs at its best. Very friendly and relaxing experience. Visit me today. For appointment please call 954649-9905.WWW.BRAZILLIANTOUCH.COM
ADVERTISE IN MARKS LIST MARKETPLACE
Call Jim at 954-928-1862 Ext. 14 or Email Jim@HotSpotsMedia.com
130 | Hotspots.LGBT
Mark’s List Marketplace u GROOMING
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Power washing, tint removal Call Scott 954-566-4415
AFFORDABLE CLEANING. CALL 954-822-7857
Quality cleaning in everything we do, better prices and better results in your cleaning experience. 1 Bed $40., 2 Bed $50., 3 Bed $60. Call for an appointment today.
ADVERTISE IN MARKS LIST MARKETPLACE
Call Jim at 954-928-1862 Ext. 14 or Email Jim@HotSpotsMedia.com Hotspots.LGBT | 131
Mark’s List Marketplace ***CLEAN IT RITE*** THE BEST CLEANING FOR YOUR BUCK!
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IN-HOME SERVICE. Proudly serving our community for over 12 years. *Get the BEST performance, protection & value from your computer investment. *A+ Hardware & OS certified. *Friendly, professional, RELIABLE service. Reasonable rates. Call: Mike 954-817-3883
‘D’ ELECTRICIAN TECHNICAL SERVICES INC.
Your Personal Tech Assistant. BEST RATES in the tri-county area. Specializing in Android & iPhones. PC/Mac-Training, Installation, Clean-up & Repairs. Friendly, In-Home Srvc. Call/Txt 954-903-4383.
Additions, renovations, service upgrades, breaker panels, FPL undergrounds, code violations, A/C wiring, ceiling fans, recessed, security & landscaping, lighting, pools, pumps, Jacuzzis, water heaters, FREE PHONE ESTIMATES 954-522-3357 Lic & Ins. www.harryelectrician.com Electrical Contractor State Lic. 13007180. All your wiring needs. Residential and office. State Lic. HI 3578. Call ‘D’ 954-726-0394 Over 30 Yrs Experience Unlimited Master Electrician everything electric & smart homes. 5% Off with is ad. www.delectrician.com
HELPMEERIC.COM ! TECH SUPPORT
u HANDY MAN BROWARD HANDYMAN SERVICES
Painting, Plumbing, Light Electrical, Vanities, Sinks, Faucets, Dishwashers, Disposals, General Carpentry, Mount TV & Microwave, Drywall and more. Brian 954-881-2848. “All your Residential Needs”
ONE-STOP SHOPPING AND ASSOCIATES HANDYMAN/ REMODELING AND MORE WITH OVER 30 YEARS EXPERIENCE IN ALL PHASES OF...
u APPLIANCE REPAIR APPLIANCE REPAIRS / SMALL APPLIANCE DROP OFF
From Roper to Viking we got you covered! LG, Samsung no problem. Small appliance shop rate just $39, fix it don’t throw it away. Call All Bright Repair @ 954-765-6272 it’s fixed or it’s free!
u AIR CONDITIONING AFFORDABLE AIR CONDITIONING REPAIRS
Fast repair service, A&H AC 954-392-1301. Lic. CAC057837, replacement units with financing options if needed. Over 30 years serving our community. Evenings and weekends too. 132 | Hotspots.LGBT
Home improvements, additions, electrical, plumbing, painting, kitchen, baths, wood flooring / trim, TV mounting, Former owner of a NY remodeling co. as well as a hands on worker, because I demand perfection in all I do. Please call Mitch for prompt honest and dependable service. Lic. CGC1514441 and insured. 954-253-4650
u MOVING | STORAGE A LEAGUE OF EXTRAORDINARY MOVERS HAS GUYS WITH DOLLIES READY TO MOVE YOU!
For FREE price quote Call US @954-566-1270 or visit us At WWW.WORLDSBESTMOVERS. COM Ask about our FREE wardrobe service.
RED BOX MOVING COMPANY OWNER IN TRUCK ON EVERY MOVE
Call Norbert directly. Affordable, Reliably and Careful. Insured & Licensed MV#567 www.RedBoxMoving. com (954) 305-9176
Mark’s List Marketplace u PLUMBING ALL COUNTY PLUMBING CONTRACTORS INC
Licensed since 1989. Specializing in tankless/tank water heaters. Guaranteed lowest prices in Broward county. Complete plumbing service and installation. Expert bathroom and kitchen. Free estimates. 24/7 Lic# CFC039956. Call Ed @ 954-297-0595.
LANDSCAPING LAWN MOWING & LANDSCAPING SERVICE INTEGRITY LANDSCAPE SERVICE 10 YEARS IN BUSINESS LIC. & INS.
Full Service- Everything from Landscaping Design and Installation to Maintenance. We do it allweeding, large and small lawns. Tree trimming class B certification lic. CCB1308. Member of the Better Business Bureau. WHATEVER YOU NEED WE DO IT! Just call JOHN 954-763-3340, cell 954-812-5434.
u TATTOO
IRRIGATION SYSTEM REPAIR AND MAINTENANCE
19 yrs. experience, excellent work, referrals upon request. Call Roberto at 954-383-8980
u PROFESSIONAL SERVICES PIANO OR VOICE LESSONS
Professional gay male musician offering lessons for all ages and levels in your home or my studio. Broadway, pop, classically trained. Lets have fun! Jonathan 646-418-4043 jcorn29@hotmail.com
u TAX PREPARATION HAROLD J BLOTCHER, EA
Tax Preparation and Resolution for Individuals and Small Business. Help With Same Sex Marriage Issues and IRS Issues. Call 781-363-5519 or 561-429-3592 or visit our website at www.haroldjblotchertaxes.com
ADVERTISE IN MARKS LIST MARKETPLACE
Call Jim at 954-928-1862 Ext. 14 or Email Jim@HotSpotsMedia.com Hotspots.LGBT | 133
Mark’s List Marketplace u TREE SERVICE TREES WITH LEAVES, INC. -YOUR PERSONAL PROFESSIONAL TREE SERVICE.
Tree pruning - Palm Trimming - Tree Removal Stump Grinding - Storm Preparation and Cleanup - Serving East Broward Ft. Laud. to Boca Raton - Call George 954-444-7710 or 954-783-0395 Insured. Lic.-CCB-206
ADVERTISE IN MARKS LIST MARKETPLACE
Call Jim at 954-928-1862 Ext. 14 or Email Jim@HotSpotsMedia.com
u AUTOMOTIVE
134 | Hotspots.LGBT
Mark’s List Marketplace u RETAIL
Hotspots.LGBT | 135