36th Year
Hotspots magazine is published alternate Thursdays (26 issues/year).
Jeff Sterling Chief Executive Officer Scott Holland VP - Operations/Associate Publisher ADMINISTRATION VP - Development | Jamie Forsythe Business Manager | Alyson omas Administrative Assistant | Ryan Isom DIGITAL & TV VP - TV & Digital | Darren Loli Digital Manager | Troy Maillis Special Digital Projects | Austin Rahn Events Manager | Jameer Baptiste ART & DESIGN Art Director | Frank Mendez Designer | Maria Espinal ADVERTISING Account Executives Anthony Verrico — (754) 333-0886 Nicole Covar — (754) 333-0889 NATIONAL ADVERTISING Rivendell Media, 212-242-6863 CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Chris Azzopardi | Tom Bonanti Maria Espinal | S. Elfman Mike Jeknavorian | Andreus Quinones CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Cedric Roberson | Dale Stine | Dennis Dean | Robert Hadley CELEBRITY HOST Shawn Palacious (“Kitty Meow”) LOGISTICS Cedric Roberson Copyright 2022, WMEG Inc. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part by any means without written permission by the Publisher is prohibited. Publication of the name or photograph or any person, living or dead, is not to be construed as any indication of the sexual orientation of such persons or organizations.
HOW TO REACH US MAIN OFFICE The Sterling Building 2435 N Dixie Hwy., Wilton Manors, Florida 33305 Phone (754) 200-2979 CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING Call (754) 200-2979 x 625 or e-mail Classifieds@HotspotsMedia.com DISPLAY ADVERTISING Call (754) 200-2979 x 605 or e-mail Ads@HotspotsMedia.com
WHO WE ARE
WMEG Inc., is a Community Marketing and Events organization incorporating Hotspots magazine and Happening Out Television Network. Our mission as a 501 (c)(3) nonprofit is to promote South Florida, and especially Wilton Manors,as a welcoming LGBTQ+ destination through marketing and events. WMEG produces about 50 events a year, including the annual Stonewall Pride Parade and Festival in Wilton Manors. Other events include Art Walk on Wilton Drive and Vibes On The Drive. Visit WMEG.org for more info. WMEG also manages the Sculpture Walk project which is responsible for the installation of sculptures in public spaces in Wilton Manors.
Watch Queer News Tonight streaming live Monday through Thursdays at 7 p.m. at HappeningOut.com
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OUR AUDIENCE Hotspots magazine is available at more than 300 locations from West Palm Beach to Key West and reaches an audience exceeding 300,000 monthly across our print, TV and digital network. We offer comprehensive and cost-effective advertising programs on multiple platforms including:
• Print Magazine • Web Advertising • E-mail Marketing
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Museum of Discovery & Science
Wine, Spirits and Culinary Celebration
Photos: Cedric Roberson
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Florida AIDS Walk & Music Festival
Photos: Robert Hadley & Cedric Roberson
Miami Beach Pride, an annual celebration which was established in 2008 by former Mayor Matti Bower, starts on April 1 this year. The weeklong calendar of exciting events culminates into a day-long festival and parade April 10 on Ocean Drive. For locals who are making a staycation out of it, or tourists who want to immerse themselves into some Miami Beach spiciness, there is a lot to see and do. Miami Beach – and its surrounding area– is full of some of the world's most fabulous bars and clubs – which you can see listed in this very magazine. There are great shops along places like Lincoln Road and Espanola Way, big and small theaters for all kinds of shows, unique architecture and gorgeous beaches.
By S. Elfman
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HERE ARE SOME SIGHTS YOU WON'T WANT TO MISS:
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1. Vizcaya Museum & Gardens 3251 S. Miami Avenue, Miami 33129 305-250-9133 • vizcaya.org Open every day but Tuesday, this national landmark includes a waterfront estate home, built in 1916, and 10 acres of beautiful gardens. It attracts visitors from all over the world and many choose its ground for weddings and elaborate parties. In fact, White Party took place there for many years.
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2. Pérez Art Museum 1103 Biscayne Boulevard, Miami, 33132 305-375-3000 • pamm.org Open Thursdays through Sundays, This contemporary art museum houses phenomenal pieces from the 20th and 21th century, has waterfront dining, and of course, a museum gift shop. The building itself is a modern site to see – it was designed by prize-winning architects Herzog & de Meuron. Check their site for current exhibitions and tour information and make sure to take a stroll through its Sculpture Gardens. HotspotsMagazine.com | 25
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3. Miami Beach Botanical Garden 2000 Convention Center Drive, Miami Beach, 33139 305-673-7256 • mbgarden.org Open every day but Monday, this 3-acre garden features all kinds of palm trees and flowers native to the area. It also has a Japanese Garden and a boutique and offers many fun events. Make sure to take some time to explore the true beauty of the site and enjoy a peacetime time away from crowds. 4. Little Havana SE 8th Street • between 13th and 17th avenues, Miami Beach Centered around Calle Ocho (SE 8th Street), the lively neighborhood of colorful murals is the destination for restaurants, cigar shops, art galleries and more. You can visit famous Maximo Gomez Park, called "Domino Park" by locals, and dine at famous Cuban restaurant Versailles.
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5. Zoo Miami 12400 SW 152nd St, Miami, 33177 305-251-0400 • zoomiami.org Open daily, Zoo Miami is the largest zoo in Florida. You can traverse the 4-mile zoo by foot or rent one of their Safari Cycles. They offer educational presentations, animal feedings and animal encounters, in addition to VIP tours, tram tours, pedal boats, of course, all kinds of amazing animals. 6. Art Deco Welcome Center 1001 Ocean Drive, Miami Beach, 33139 305-672-2014 • mdpl.org/welcome-center Visit to the Art Deco, which is open daily, to schedule a tour to see unique Miami Beach architecture. There's a variety of tours to choose from, including a Gay and Lesbian Walking Tour. Also, make sure to stick around to check out its museum and gift shop. 7. Wynwood Walls 2520 NW Second Ave • between 25th and 26th streets 33127 museum.thewynwoodwalls.com/main Modern art lovers do not want to miss a tour of vibrant Wynwood Walls. The outdoor museum has huge, colorful murals and the surrounding area has funky boutiques, restaurants, art galleries, bars and more.
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OFFICIAL STONEWALL PRIDE KICK-OFF & OPENING RECEPTION May 31 • 6 p.m. PHOTO EXHIBITION • PRIDE MONTH, JUNE 2022
Galleria Fort Lauderdale
Don’t miss this exhibition that will pay tribute to South Florida drag pioneers, who, based on their longevity, entrepreneurship, roles on local television and international fame, continue to elevate the entertainment experience. A photo wall of fame will showcase local drag performers.
NIKKI ADAMS
TIFFANY ARIEAGUS
CATHY CRAIG
DAISY DEADPETALS
ELECTRA
HistoryFortLauderdale.org
LATRICE ROYALE
By Romeo San Vicente
Eddie Izzard Jumps Into “Doctor Jekyll” Transgender icon Eddie Izzard is currently shooting “Doctor Jekyll,” a modern retelling of Robert Louis Stevenson's 1886 novella, “The Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde,” and this new version will incorporate Izzard's own trans identity. She'll be playing Dr. Nina Jekyll, and doing battle with the monstrous — and murderous — Hyde
personality she tries to keep at bay. Co-starring Scott Chambers (“Malevolent”), with a screenplay by first-timer Dan Kelly-Mulhern, and directed by Joe Stephenson (the Ian McKellen documentary, “McKellen: Playing the Part”), the project is jumpstarting a new incarnation of the legendary British
'BLUE BEETLE' GETS A SHOT OF QUEERNESS WITH HARVEY GUILLÉN The DC Extended Universe continues to grow with the upcoming feature “Blue Beetle.” A well-known character in DC comics, BB is Jaime Reyes, a teenager who receives battle powers and space travel abilities from a blue scarab beetle. And if we've learned anything about the current state of moviemaking, it's that there is no comic book character who isn't going to get their own TV show or film. In this origin story, written by Gareth Dunnet-Alcocer (“Miss Bala”)
Jaime Reyes
Photo: wikipedia
Photo: quotepark.com
horror studio, Hammer, maker of wild '60s classics like “The Gorgon” and “The Reptile.” No word on whether or not this new film will be an aesthetic throwback to the colorful, lurid atmosphere of those bygone camp masterpieces, but we also don't care that much: we'll watch Izzard do anything.
and directed by Angel Manuel Soto (“Charm City Kings”), "Cobra Kai" star Xolo Maridueña will play the blue superhero. And just added to the cast is “What We Do In the Shadows” costar Harvey Guillén. The queer comic actor's role in “Beetle” isn't yet known, and for all we know we'll have to wait until the film's summer 2023 release to find out. But these sorts of surprises are why we line up for the superhero summer movies in the first place. Bring on the bug.
Photo: HBO Max
'SORT OF' SITCOM SET FOR SECOND SEASON The level of high-quality queer TV content just keeps rising, and yet another mustsee series to add to your list, HBO Max's “Sort Of,” just got the green light for a second season. The Canadian Ivory Aquino project came out of the gate in 2021 to praise across the board, landing on year-end best-of lists from “The Hollywood Reporter,” “The
Dove Cameron Globe and Mail” and “Vanity Fair.” It's the story of a young gender nonconforming Millennial named Sabi, played by series co-creator Bilal Baig, who works at a queer bar, tends to a group of queer friends, and navigates life as the youngest child of a large Pakistani family. Alongside co-creator Fab Filippo (“Save Me”), Baig has given queer audiences hungry for representation a funny, wise show about the nature of identity and the trouble with clinging to labels. Now go catch up while we wait for that next batch of episodes to drop.
Bilal Baig
DOVE CAMERON READS 'FIELD NOTES ON LOVE' Whether you grew up on the Disney Channel — and if you're under 40 then you basically did — or are old enough and
queer enough to spot all the Broadway references on “Schmigadoon!” then you know Dove Cameron. The former “Liv and Maddie” star, who recently came out publicly, has branched into adult roles like the aforementioned metamusical sitcom, where she stole scenes as an innocently horny Ado Annie-in“Oklahoma!”-style farmer's daughter. Next, she'll drop into a starring role in “Field Notes on Love,” a romance set on a train in which a recently dumped guy drafts a friend to go with him on a railroad journey (nontransferable tickets, gotta use 'em) that turns into love. The project, based on the book by Jennifer E. Smith, will be adapted by “Gilmore Girls” icon Lauren Graham. And Cameron's costar will be none other than another “Liv and Maddie” alum, Jordan Fisher (who also starred in “Rent: Live”). In other words, the former Disney kids are having a meta moment all their own. Romeo San Vicente just cain't say no. HotspotsMagazine.com | 39
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Miami Beach Pride Returns to April! 46 | HotspotsMagazine.com
Miami Beach Pride brings together members of the lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender community, their friends, allies, and supporters in celebration of the unique spirit and culture of the LGBTQ+ community. It is their mission to envision, plan and execute a roster of events and activities that are as diverse as the community itself, including activations centering on entertainment, events, arts, culture and civic and social engagement. Miami Beach Gay Pride, Inc /Miami Beach Pride Festival & Parade 2022 is sponsored in part by the State of Florida, Department of State, Division of Arts and Culture and the Florida Council on Arts and Culture. They are also supported by the Miami-Dade County Department of Cultural Affairs and the Cultural Affairs Council, the Miami-Dade County Mayor and Board of County Commissioners.
In 2022, Miami Beach Pride is returning to its April cadence and is yet another sign that the “new normal” we've all come to embrace over the last two years has some elements of the past while also looking to the future. While the two-day festival and parade held in Lummus Park has long been a staple of celebration and easily falling into the not-tobe missed category, there are new elements of Miami Beach Pride that point to an organization who is clearly keeping their finger on the pulse of the culture. Signaling to the community that visibility from a festival and parade remain critically important for the public and the sponsors willing to commit funds to show support, Miami Beach Pride has opened up new channels to foster discourse for the future and honor those who came before. The
inaugural social justice evening in 2021 proved to be wildly popular with a variety of panels discussing real issues affecting the community and that continues into 2022. With the forthcoming “Don't Say Gay” bill on the minds of many Floridians, the evening is squarely focused on the topic with voices from the community as well as from FIU and UM on the matter. In a more intimate venue, it's a chance to have a dialogue about a piece of legislation that is nearly sure to pass. To honor those who have come before, the Legacy Couples will be coming into the foreground in a way like never before. Typically, the couples are honored in the parade but this year the public will get to know their stories in a very unique exhibition hosted at the Art Deco Museum HotspotsMagazine.com | 47
on Miami Beach. Having an oral and visual history of relationships that cumulatively add up to more than 400 years of LGBT love shines a light on the heartbreak and triumph these couples have faced. The video vignettes that will be playing in each station also house an object that is representative of their relationship. Each one is unique much like our couples and will be at the museum through the end of May! Miami Beach Pride also continues to honor ball culture and will be hosting the Legends Ball for the second year in a row in a new venue even better equipped to allow the houses to shine! With a plethora of talented performers from several houses in South Florida, having a dedicated event for them in conjunction with Pride is a unique chance for more people to share in an art form that has been the basis for so much of queer culture. Beyond honoring the different threads that weave the rich tapestry of our 48 | HotspotsMagazine.com
community, Miami Beach Pride is also bringing back the Queer Art Showcase in which local artists show and sell their latest works. With two difficult years that more disproportionately affected the LGBT community financially, the organization felt strongly that an element of the week-long festivities should more overtly financially benefit the community. By hosting a platform that encourages artist exposure and sales, Miami Beach Pride hopes to not only support the community with inclusive programming but ways to shine a light on the varied work from talented artists in a variety of mediums. The Pride Festival is Saturday and Sunday, April 9 & 10 starting at 12pm and the Parade is Sunday April 10th at 12pm. With a full slate of programming that has something for everyone, don't delay in visiting miamibeachpride.com to organize the week, kicking off on April 1st!
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CATS Comes to the Broward Center
Tuesday, April 5 to Sunday, April 10 By Scott Holland Photos By Matthew Murphy
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Vinny Andaloro One of the biggest hits in theatrical history, CATS will come to The Broward Center for the Performing Arts in Fort Lauderdale from Tuesday, April 5, to Sunday, April 10 as part of a new North American tour. Composed by Andrew Lloyd Webber and based on T.S. Eliot's Old Possum's Book of Practical Cats, the record-breaking musical spectacular has captivated audiences in over 30 countries and 15 languages. Featuring new sound design, direction, and choreography for a new generation — experience CATS for the first time as it begins a new life, or let it thrill you all over again! Since its world premiere, CATS has been seen by more than 75 million people worldwide. The original Broadway production opened in 1982 at Broadway's
Winter Garden Theatre, where it ran for 7,485 performances: 18 years. CATS was originally produced on Broadway by Cameron Mackintosh, The Really Useful Company Limited, David Geffen, and The Shubert Organization. The Tony Awardwinning Best Musical held the title of longest-running musical in Broadway history until it was surpassed in 2006 by Lloyd Webber's The Phantom of the Opera. The original Broadway production closed on September 10, 2000, and is currently the fourth longest-running show in Broadway history. CATS returned to Broadway in July 2016 in a stunning revival at the Neil Simon Theatre, where it ran through December 2017. It was a pleasure to sit down with Vinny Andaloro, who plays Alonzo, for this exclusive Hotspots interview: AT WHAT AGE DID YOU BEGIN PERFORMING? I began performing in middle school as I started taking dance classes when I was 12 years old. WHAT WAS YOUR FIRST PAID GIG? A small summer stock theater on the Jersey Shore. WHEN DID YOU KNOW PERFORMING WOULD BE YOUR CAREER?
I think I knew performing would be a serious career in High School with the support of my parents. That's when I realized I could do it for a living. OTHER THAN THIS ONE, WHAT HAS BEEN YOUR FAVORITE ROLE SO FAR? I really enjoyed playing Henry in Newsies at the Lexington Theater Company. I had always wanted to be in that show since I saw it on Broadway. WHAT'S YOUR FANTASY ROLE (A ROLE YOU HAVEN'T PLAYED BUT WANT TO)? There are a whole bunch of roles I want to play, but for right now I would love to see myself in any featured dance role. The heart of a lot of stories are told through dance and I want to be able to do that. WHAT DID YOU DO/ACCOMPLISH DURING THE QUARANTINE PART OF THE PANDEMIC? First, I got to spend some quality time with my family, and I also went to school online where I was studying and learning from my professors. IS THERE ADDITIONAL PRESSURE PERFORMING IN SUCH AN ICONIC MUSICAL THAT AT ONE TIME WAS THE LONGEST RUNNING MUSICAL ON BROADWAY? Not so much a pressure, but a pride that comes along with it. I am so excited to be a HotspotsMagazine.com | 57
part of such an iconic show and telling this story with this cast; we are lucky to do so. Also, you can really tell the audiences appreciate the work we are doing, and it feels really good. DESCRIBE YOURSELF IN 3 WORDS? Charismatic, kind and conscientious WHAT DO YOU DO FOR FUN? For fun I love good old quality time with friends, and I love a good bite to eat as well. I also enjoy doing Yoga. It gets my body where it needs to be and my mind in a really good head space. WHAT'S THE BEST AND WORST THINGS ABOUT BEING ON THE ROAD? The best thing is being able to tell this story in so many different locations to a very wide variety of audiences. I am extremely lucky I get to travel the country doing what I love. The worst thing is missing my loved ones back home.
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WHAT SHOULD OUR READERS EXPECT FROM THIS TOURING COMPANY OF “CATS”? They should expect to see an incredible amount of vibrancy and energy on stage. They will have 2 ½ hours of entertainment and bliss while they experience this true iconic story that is rooted in love and acceptance. For more information on, Vinny Andaloro, go to his website: VinnyAndaloro.com or follow him at Instagram.com/vinny_andaloro For more information on CATS, go to: CatsTheMusical.com. Tickets for Cats at the Broward Center start at $35 and are available at browardcenter.org at Broward Center’s Autonation Box Office, 201 SW 5th Avenue, Fort Lauderdale or by calling 954.462.0222.
By Maria Espinal
Wild Sea Las Olas 620 East Las Olas Blvd. • Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33301 954.467.2555 • wildsealasolas.com Daily 7am– 11:30am • Mon-Fri 11:30am – 2pm • Mon-Sun 5pm10pm • Sat & Sun Brunch: 11:30am – 2pm Wild Sea Las Olas delights locals and hotel guests with delicious cuisine at a remarkably affordable price. From its raw bar to innovative dishes and daily specials, Wild Sea's menu has something for everyone, seafood lover or not. Enjoy their daily happy hour, breakfast, lunch specials and weekend brunch. You can also host your social event in their beautiful & elegant wine room. Vegetarian-Friendly, vegan & gluten free options available. Miyako Japanese Buffet 1157 S. Federal Hwy. • Pompano Beach, FL 33062 954.783.8883 • miyakobuffet.com Mon-Fri 11:30am - 3:30pm/5pm - 10pm • Fri-Sat 11:30am 3:30pm/5:00pm - 10:30pm • Sun 12pm - 3:30pm/5:00pm 10:00pm This buffet restaurant is like sushi heaven! In a relaxed atmosphere, Miyako offers unlimited servings of various fresh sushi rolls, hibachi grill fare, cold bar, hot food and desserts. At Miyako, you can also plan to have any type of event. Also, Lobster is available for Friday to Sunday Dinner & BOGO on beer, wine and sake on Tuesdays and Thursdays. Enjoy! L'Artisane Creative Bakery 2526 Ponce de Leon Blvd. • Coral Gables, FL 33134 786.502.8595 • lartisanebakery.com • Mon- Sun 7:30am-7pm If you are looking for a vegan bakery, stop looking now. Located in the heart of Coral Gables, L'Artisane is just the perfect place to relax, meet friends or just stop to try one or more of their vegan croissants, "named best-of-miami" by Miami New Times. Owned by high-end chef Carolina Molea, their menu feature various croissants, empanadas, cookies, macarons, flatbreads, salads and yummy desserts. Lunch & dinner are served daily and you can order online as nationwide shipping is available. Havana 6801 S. Dixie Hwy • West Palm Beach, FL 33405 561.547.9799 • havanacubanfood.com Thu - Sat 5pm - 10pm • Sun 5pm - 9pm Voted best Cuban restaurant and best Cuban sandwich in Palm Beach county, there are many dishes to highlight...How about a tamal cubano especial, arroz con pollo, rabo encendido, lechon asado, medianoche sandwich, pan con bistec or lechon and how can we forget a cortadito and flan or tres leches for dessert. They do have vegetarian dishes, lunch specials and catering service. 60 | HotspotsMagazine.com
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Bob The Drag Queen
Brings Her StandUp to South Florida By Scott Holland Photos By Jacob Ritts
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The last time I chatted with Bob The Drag Queen was a day after she was crowned the winner of season 8 of RuPaul's Drag Race. It's been 6 years and she has accomplished so much, so we thought it was time to catch up. Especially since she will be bringing her stand up comedy act to the Dania Improv on Friday, April 8 and Saturday, April 9, and to the Palm Beach Improv on Sunday, April 10. BEFORE WE GET INTO EVERYTHING YOU HAVE ACCOMPLISHED AFTER WINNING DRAG RACE, I MUST ASK, WHAT DID YOU DO WITH THE $100,000? I didn't spend it in one place. I used it to
buy necessities and bought some things I want and things for people I love. SHORTLY AFTER DRAG RACE YOU RELEASED A FEW SINGLES. DID YOU ALWAYS SING OR HOW DID YOU GET INTO SINGING? I don't really sing; they are more rap songs. I did like music in high school and college, but it has never been a main focus of mine. IN 2017, YOUR FIRST STAND UP SPECIAL, BOB THE DRAG QUEEN: SUSPICIOUSLY LARGE WOMAN, AIRED AND WAS HYSTERICAL. HOW DID THIS COME ABOUT? I had been doing stand up comedy for a few years before drag race. I think I was in the right place at the right time. I KNOW, YOU HAVE HAD A SECOND
SPECIAL, HOW MANY MORE STAND UP SPECIALS DO YOU HAVE IN STORE FOR US? I don't have a cap to them...lol! I haven't planned out my entire career, but I plan on doing another one for sure. IN ADDITION TO BEING A STAND-UP COMEDIAN, YOU WRITE JOKES FOR OTHER QUEENS. WHEN DID THAT START AND HOW IS YOUR PROCESS DIFFERENT FOR OTHER PEOPLE? I have written for other people since about a year or two before drag race. And my process differs depending on what it's for. I do, however, right from their perspective as best as I can. YOU ARE THE CO-FOUNDER OF BLACK QUEER TOWN HALL ALONG WITH HotspotsMagazine.com | 73
FELLOW RUPAUL ALUMNI PEPPERMINT. HOW DID THIS COME ABOUT? I was sitting at home watching Obama's town hall and I thought an all-black queer town hall would be so special and we organized it from there. LESS THAN A YEAR AGO YOU WERE FEATURED IN COACH NEW YORK'S "PRIDE IS WHERE YOU FIND IT" CAMPAIGN. HOW EXCITING WAS THAT? I have been working with Coach since 2019, and I love working with them. I really feel like they appreciate me and value me, and they see my value even out of drag. WE'RE HERE IS A BIG HIT ON HBO, AND CONGRATS FOR BEING RENEWED FOR A THIRD SEASON. HOW DID THIS SHOW COME ABOUT AND TELL ME ABOUT THE EXPERIENCE? The shows creator Steve Warren, called me up one night and told me to meet him at a 74 | HotspotsMagazine.com
restaurant to talk about an idea. Once he described it, I thought it was an amazing idea, and I was immediately in. I could not summarize filming it, it's a lot, but very special. SO, YOU ARE AN ACTOR, STAND-UP COMEDIAN, WRITER, ACTIVIST, MODEL, ETC. IS THERE ONE YOU LIKE THE MOST? I really love doing stand up comedy. I think I excel the most in that arena. YOU ARE THE DRAG MOTHER TO BOTH MIZ CRACKER AND MONET X CHANGE, HOW PROUD ARE YOU OF THEM? I'm very grateful for them, but I want to be clear they taught themselves most of what they know. I am really proud of them as friends. YOU ARE IN A POLYAMOUROUS RELATIONSHIP, TELL ME ABOUT YOUR MEN? I think most people think its more interesting than I think it is. I started dating Jacob first and we are together for 5 years and Ezra has been with me for 3 years. WHAT'S AHEAD FOR BOB THE DRAG QUEEN? I am preparing to film the third season of We're Here. WHY SHOULD OUR READERS COME SEE YOUR STAND UP AT THE DANIA IMPROV? If you are interested in hearing humor from a black queer person or to see what all the hub bub is, you should come check it out.
For more information on Bob The Drag Queen go to her website: Bobthedragqueen.com or follow her on Instagram.com/bobthedragqueen For tickets to Bobs performance on Friday or Saturday, April 8 and 9th at the Dania Improv, go to DaniaImprov.com. or on Sunday, April 10th and the Palm Beach Improv go to PalmBeachimprov.com.
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15th Anniversary & Fornication Party
Photos: Cedric Roberson
By Maria Espinal
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1. Staying Afloat 801 Seabreeze Blvd. Dock I • FortLauderdale, FL 33316 • 708.986.1926 • stayingafloatpartyboat.com Thankfully, Florida offers great weather to go out on a boat either day or night. With capacity from 1 - 45 passengers and a 2-hour trip, experience cruising the waters of Fort Lauderdale on board a 45? vessel, Island Time. This boat trip offers views of the yachts and mansions that the town is famous for. The boat then anchors away at the Fort Lauderdale Sandbar in 3 – 4 feet of water so that guests may jump in to swim. Evening cruises available and private boar tours as well. Sounds like fun! 2. Miami Design District 140 NE 39thSt. • Miami, FL 33137 305.722.7100 • miamidesigndistrict.net Mon-Sat 11am-8pm • Sun 12pm-6pm The MDD is a creative neighborhood where you can shop, dine, experience contemporary art and design, enjoy amazing events and get inspired. The District is home to more than 120 designer stores like Balenciaga, Cartier, Louis Vuitton and more, making it one of the world's greatest shopping areas. In the District, you are also be surrounded by some of the best architecture and great restaurants to have a good time with friends. Check them out online as there is always something going on at the MDD! 82 | HotspotsMagazine.com
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3. The Square 700 S Rosemary Ave. • West Palm Beach, FL, 33401 561.366.1000 • thesquarewestpalm.com Mon-Wed 12-8PM Thurs-Sat 12-10PM Sun 12-8PM The Square is a dynamic experiential neighborhood and a destination for retail, cuisine, design, worldclass art, live music and entertianment for everyone. Just three miles from Palm Beach International Airport and one mile from Palm Beach Island, The Square is centrally located in Downtown West Palm Beach and adjacent to the high-speed train, Brightline, which offers connections between West Palm, Fort Lauderdale, and Miami. 4. Downtown Hollywood Mural Project 1948 Harrison Street • Hollywood, FL 33020 954.924.2980 • hollywoodcra.org Are you an art lover or an artist looking for exposure? Downtown Hollywood offers the mural project tour, every third Saturday during Downtown Hollywood ArtWalk and meets at 6PM at Harrison Street + 20th Avenue at the white Information Tent. The DHMP's goal is to curate contemporary outdoor murals at key locations in Downtown Hollywood in an effort to enhance and enrich the existing cultural fabric of our community, thereby attracting more art related activities, businesses and events. Tour lasts
Hotties HOTSPOTS
Javier 25 • Sagittarius • Cuba
Meet Our Cover Models
What city you live in? Miami Are you Single or married? Single What your perfect date? I love the outdoors, so something active and then some good food. What do you do for a living? I am a bartender at Palace and I am a realtor. What do you do for fun? I like to play volleyball, go to the beach and work out. What does the future hold for you? Hopefully owning my own bar. >>> c /monteroo_11
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Photos by Dennis Dean Interview by Scott Holland
Diego
25 • Gemini • Mexico
What city you live in? Northwest Miami. Are you Single or married? I am married, we have been together for many years
What makes your hubby the perfect guy for you? He lets me be myself, and loves me the way I am. His love is not contained and loves to communicate with me. What do you do for a living? Bartender at Twist What do you do for fun? I love to go on social media and anything not to stay at home. What does the future hold for you? To be the owner of my time. >>> c /Diegogomiami HotspotsMagazine.com | 85
Photo: Pexels.com - Julia Larson
By Tom Bonanti
TRICEPS MAKE A DIFFERENCE!
If you are really looking to make gains when it comes to arms, you've got to train triceps seriously. Here's all you need to know. Triceps make up two-thirds of your upper arm, therefore it is logical that the bigger and more defined these babies are, the more massive your arms will look. The triceps are responsible for the 94 | HotspotsMagazine.com
movement of extension of the elbow and produce motion of the forearm. Because of their larger size you need to work tri's longer and harder than biceps. Hit triceps using 3-4 exercises of 3-4 sets of 8-12 repetitions for maintenance. Work them at least twice per week using the same formula to build them. Use free weights for triceps to give you a better range of motion and to produce a
dumbbell in one hand dumbbell in one hand hold a rack andand hold on on to atorack or or bench other bench withwith thethe other hand. Raise lower hand. Raise andand lower (kick back) dumbbell (kick back) thethe dumbbell at even an even rate, keeping at an rate, keeping upper in line thethe upper armarm in line withwith your torso parallel your torso andand parallel to to floor. Keep your thethe floor. Keep your upper tight against upper armarm tight against your waist throughout. your waist throughout. Be Be careful to overcareful notnot to overuseuse your wrist as you your wrist as you kickkick thethe weight back extend weight back andand extend elbow. thethe elbow. Lying triceps extensions Lying triceps extensions or “skull crushers” as they or “skull crushers” as they fuller muscle. Always make sure fuller muscle. Always make sure youyou getget a a sometimes them a more advanced sometimes callcall them areare a more advanced good stretch especially as you good stretch for for tri'stri's especially as you exercise. on your back onflat a flat bench exercise. Lie Lie on your back on a bench andand conclude workout. Stretching helps conclude thethe workout. Stretching helps hold a barbell Z curl at arms length hold a barbell or EorZ Ecurl barbar at arms length bring separations detail in the bring outout thethe separations andand detail in the above Lower it slowly to the forehead above you.you. Lower it slowly to the forehead andand muscle. muscle. raise again to arm's length. raise thethe barbar again to arm's length. Here some dynamite exercises Here areare some dynamite exercises thatthat During your workouts don't waste time. During your workouts don't waste time. build those triceps: willwill build those triceps: When you're working triceps, or any muscle When you're working triceps, or any muscle Whenever working a muscle Whenever youyou areare working a muscle group remember to stretch move around group remember to stretch andand move around group, always include at least group, always include at least oneone between sets. When finish a set of triceps between sets. When youyou finish a set of triceps exercise muscle group exercise thatthat willwill taketake thethe muscle group extensions, example, walk briskly around extensions, for for example, walk briskly around through its full range of motion. Closethrough its full range of motion. Closestretch each of your triceps over your andand stretch each of your triceps over your bench presses triceps. gripgrip bench presses willwill do do thisthis for for triceps. head thoroughly, then a set of the off the head thoroughly, then do do a set of off a flat bench, firmly Lie Lie faceface up up on on a flat bench, feetfeet firmly bench before moving onthe to the bench dipsdips before moving on to nextnext planted floor. Take a barbell planted on on thethe floor. Take a barbell or EorZE Z exercise. exercise. from rack. a narrow curlcurl barbar from thethe rack. UseUse a narrow gripgrip so that your hands inches so that your hands areare onlyonly 2-32-3 inches apart. Keeping your elbows close to your apart. Keeping your elbows close to your body, lower weight to your lower body, lower thethe weight to your lower sternum, immediately push upwards. sternum, andand immediately push upwards. Always begin a light warm-up Always begin withwith a light warm-up set.set. Triceps extensions a classic. Start Triceps extensions areare a classic. Start exercise by holding lat machine thisthis exercise by holding a lata machine barbar your hands inches apart. Now withwith your hands 2-82-8 inches apart. Now press downwards from your until press downwards from your chinchin until your arms straight. Return repeat. your arms areare straight. Return andand repeat. Most bodybuilders keep their elbows Most bodybuilders keep their elbows tucked at their sides during tucked in atintheir sides during thisthis movement. exercise movement. ThisThis exercise cancan alsoalso be be performed a rope instead performed withwith a rope instead of aof a straight or machine lat machine straight barbar or lat bar.bar. Bent-over triceps backs great Bent-over triceps kickkick backs areare great isolating each of the triceps. Hold for for isolating each of the triceps. Hold a a
Bonanti a certied tness trainer massage therapist (MA#40288) TomTom Bonanti is aiscertied tness trainer andand massage therapist (MA#40288) withwith his his ownown oneone on one gym in Lauderdale. Ft. Lauderdale. Contact trainertomb@aol.com questions or call on one gym in Ft. Contact trainertomb@aol.com withwith questions or call TomTom at 954.557.1110 to set a massage or training session. at 954.557.1110 to set up up a massage or training session. HotspotsMagazine.com | 95
Slow Burn Theatre Company Presents
Matilda: The Musical Slow Burn Theatre Company and the Broward Center for the Performing Arts invite audiences to the Tony and Olivier Award-winning Matilda: The Musical presented by American National Bank, started on Friday, March 25, and goes through Sunday, April 10. Matilda: The Musical received widespread critical acclaim and earned seven Olivier Awards, including Best New Musical in 2012 - the most awards ever won by a single show at the time- and also received five Tony Awards in 2013 including the Tony for Best Book of a Musical. The score was written by composer Tim Minchin and features the well-known hit, “When I Grow Up.” The Tony Award-winning Roald Dahl's Matilda: The Musical is a captivating masterpiece from the Royal Shakespeare Company that revels in the anarchy of childhood, the power of imagination and the inspiring story of a girl who dreams of a better life. Matilda has won 47 international awards and continues to thrill sold-out audiences of all ages around the world. Packed with high-energy dance numbers, catchy songs, children, and adults alike will be thrilled and delighted by the story of the special little girl with an extraordinary imagination. “Matilda: The Musical in both its casting and selection is in keeping with Slow Burn's mission of bringing highly acclaimed but
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lesser-known theatre productions to South Florida,” says Director, Patrick Fitzwater. “There is so much talent here and we are thrilled that they have a place to showcase that talent in works like this. And, it is always a thrill to select incredible actors, like Saheli Khan, who are less predictable to play roles like Matilda.” The starring cast includes Saheli Khan as Matilda, Bryan Austermann as Miss Agatha Trunchbull, Lillie Thomas as Miss Honey, Anthony Cataldo as Mr. Wormwood, Mallory Newbrough as Mrs. Wormwood, and Karen Stephens as Mrs. Phelps. Additional cast members include Michael Norman as Michael Wormwood, Pablo Pernia as Rudolpho; Jerel Brown as The Escapologist, Kimmi Johnson at The Acrobat, Nate Promkul as Doctor/Ensemble, King Bell as Tommy, Kaia Michelle Davis as Alice, Jaxon James as Bruce, Jay Hendrix as Nigel, Chloe Nicole as Lavender, Gaby Lopez as Hortensia, Jack Rodman as Eric, and Ellie Rose Pulsifer as Amanda with Sofie Poliakoff as swing. The ensemble includes Nicole Kinzel, Kristi Rose Mills, Casey Sacco, Sahid Pabon, Reynel Reynaldo and Matthew Feinstein. Tickets start at $49 and are available at the Broward Center for the Performing Arts box office at 201 SW Fifth Ave. in Fort Lauderdale and online at browardcenter.org
We all know the awful feeling of not being able to fall asleep at night. Whether it's a never-ending to-do list running through your mind, or random thoughts that just keep popping up, some nights it seems like you may never get to sleep. And now that the spring refresh season is here, are you wondering how you can optimize your sleep hygiene so you can live your best life? In my experience as the founder of Manta Sleep mask and as a leader of the Pro-Nap Movement that celebrates all of the benefits of a daily nap, I have discovered a number of tried-and-true ways to amplify your sleep routine. Here are seven things you can do to help minimize your tossing and turning, both before and after bed.
1. TAKE A BATH 90 MINUTES BEFORE BED
7 Tips to Spring Clean Your Sleep So You Can Live Your Best Life By Mark Zhang CEO & Founder of Mantra Sleep Mask Photos By Pexels.com
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According to Science Daily, biomedical engineers have found that people who take a warm bath about 90 minutes before bedtime are able to fall asleep faster. Our bodies have a natural temperature cycle that correlates with our circadian rhythms — and we like to have a slightly cooler body temperature right before sleeping. Baths help because increasing your body temperature as you bathe actually results in your body cooling down to the perfect sleep temperature after your bath, right as you're falling asleep. Try sudsing up tonight and see how it affects your sleep. Extra points if you use a calming scent in your bath, like lavender or chamomile.
2.
GIVE YOURSELF A CAFFEINE CUT-OFF TIME While reaching for a hit of caffeine may help you get through the rest of your
workday, it's likely affecting your ability to sleep. Caffeine has a half-life of about 5 hours — so if your go-to pick-me-up is a 4 o'clock java, approximately half of that caffeine would still be in your system at 9pm. Some people do metabolize caffeine quicker than others and aren't as affected by the jitters or energy boost that it provides (you know who you are!). However, it's more likely that you don't fully realize how much your afternoon coffee fix impacts your ability to wind down at night. According to Mission.org, even if you don't physically feel the effects of caffeine at bedtime, it may still be in your system. This week, try giving yourself a caffeine "cut-off" time of at least 6 hours before bedtime. The earlier, the better!
3. SWITCH UP YOUR NIGHTTIME BEVERAGES Sipping on a nightcap or having a couple of glasses of wine after dinner may seem like it's helping you sleep... however, alcohol actually disrupts your sleep cycles. Alcohol may indeed help you to fall asleep faster, but it also can wake you up in the middle of the night and prevent you from getting into the deep REM sleep that your body needs to feel fully rested. Instead of having alcohol before bed, try having a warm and calming drink, like herbal tea or a turmeric latte.
4. SHUT DOWN YOUR ELECTRONICS 1-2 HOURS BEFORE BED Whether it's scrolling through social media on our phones or squeezing in one last Netflix show, electronics tend to rule our lives — and you're likely constantly surrounded by them in your home. The problem? Your devices give off blue light, which is a type of light that tells your body to wake up. That's helpful in the morning — not so much when you're trying to sleep. If you can, try turning off the screens 1-2 hours before bedtime and pull out a book instead. And if ditching your laptop and phone for a couple of hours before bed isn't an option, try blue light blocking glasses. HotspotsMagazine.com | 107
5.
6. KEEP A NOTEPAD BY YOUR BED Sometimes we can't fall asleep at night because we're thinking of all the things we need to do tomorrow or didn't get done today. If you're one of those people, keeping a notepad with a pen on your nightstand can help. Jot down everything that's on your mind to get those thoughts out of your head. Just knowing that the list is there for tomorrow and that you won't forget anything can help your mind to relax, calm down and get to sleep.
TO WRAP IT ALL UP This spring refresh season, make it a top priority to optimize your own sleep hygiene. Whether it's a warming tea, a bath before bed, trying your hand at meditation, or keeping your room dark and cool, there are plenty of things you can do to help your body and mind relax and get a good night's sleep.
TRY MEDITATION OR DEEP BREATHING You may already be a pro meditator, or you may be one who thinks it's just for the yoga crowd. But whether you realize it or not, meditating (or even just deep breathing) can help you to fall asleep. We're all prone to racing thoughts that won't calm down — so if you're affected by this, know that you're not alone. Counting to ten and focusing on your inhalation and exhalation as you breathe can help your body relax almost immediately. Repeat until you're fast asleep.
7. MAKE SURE YOUR ROOM IS DARK, QUIET AND COOL There's nothing worse than trying to sleep in a hot room with all sorts of lights and noises going on around you — so do your best to keep your room dark, quiet and cool. A white noise machine can help to drown out the noises of the night (especially if you live in a noisy building or in the city) while creating the perfect atmosphere for good sleep. Make your room as dark as possible by investing in blackout shades or a sleep mask that blocks out all light. Finally, keep the temperature of your room cool and consistent. Studies have shown that people sleep better in a room that is slightly chilled (we all know the feeling of not being able to sleep when it's hot and humid!).
Mark Zhang is the CEO & founder of Manta Sleep mask, the only mask designed, constructed, and optimized for deepest-possible sleep in any environment. Manta Sleep masks provide 100% blackout for maximized sleep quality — so users feel 100%, all the time. A leader of the pro-napping movement, Mark educates others on why an afternoon nap is crucial for unlocking one's full potential, why business owners should allow their team members to nap each day, tips to improve sleep quality, and much more. Mantasleep.com. 108 | HotspotsMagazine.com
Gaydays Returns! June 2-5 By Scott Holland
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After a two-year absence due to Covid 19, Gaydays returns with four fun filled days of events and pool parties. It was a pleasure to sit down with Chris Manley to talk about this year's GayDays and what the future holds. HOW EXCITED ARE YOU ABOUT GAYDAYS RETURNING AFTER A 2-YEAR ABSENCE DUE TO COVID 19? Very excited, as we really enjoy producing Gaydays. The last 2 years we were let down. Both years we started the planning and then realized a few months later we couldn't go forward. Now that we are less than 3 months away, we are excited that everything looks good and are looking forward to having a record year! YOUR NEW HOTEL IS THE AVANTI PALMS RESORT ON INTERNATIONAL DRIVE. HOW DID THAT HAPPEN, AND WHAT'S THE BEST THING ABOUT THAT HOTEL? In 2018, in the last year of our contract with Doubletree I started looking for new hotels. I approached Avanti as they had just gone through
renovations, but they weren't available. We then signed with Margaritaville, and when our 2-year contract with them ended, I approached Avanti again and they were happy to sign! The entire Gaydays staff loves this hotel as its closer to downtown and all the attractions. Therefore, it's a much better location for locals and for visitors. WHAT'S THE HOTEL COST THIS YEAR PER ROOM? The price starts at 200 per night per room, and you can get up to 4 people per room. As always, the rooms do include 2 pool party passes for both the daytime and evening parties. If you are going to the pool parties, the rooms are practically free. All rooms are still booked through Gaydays.com I HEARD YOU MENTION THAT THIS POOL IS THE BEST ONE GAYDAYS HAS EVER HAD, WHY? Its right off the lobby, and it's got a massive bar in the pool area, a water fountain aspect, a zero entrance walk in, private spaces, and its centrally located between the 2 sleeping buildings, and it holds 1500
people. Therefore, it will fit a lot more people and entertainment. ARE THERE ANY CHANGES TO THIS YEAR'S SCHEDULE? The schedule is about the same line up as every year. The only difference is this year we are Thursday through Sunday. ARE YOU STILL GOING TO HAVE THE ENORMOUS EXPO? Yes Sir, and the expo is right off the lobby and will be as fabulous as it has been. ARE ALL THE OTHER EVENTS RETURNING? Yes, they are, including Taste of Gay Days, Miss Gay Days Pageant, Mr. Gay Days Leather, Bingo, as well as some new events. I HEARD YOU HIRED MY FRIEND, SHANTELL RASHAE, AS ENTERTAINMENT DIRECTOR. HOW DID THIS HAPPEN? Shantell won the miss Gay Days pageant a few years back and has been part of the event ever since. She is also local, and we have all become friends, so it was a perfect fit. For more information or to book your room go to: Gaydays.com HotspotsMagazine.com | 111
Hotspots Gallery March Artists Showcase
Photos: Robert Hadley
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By Andreus Quinones
Dear Andreus, For the first time in my life, I am overwhelmed with options. I have been single for almost a year, and pretty much decided to just have sex, and avoid anything romantic. Interestingly, enough there are four guys trying desperately to pursue me right now, and they are each a good catch. I am beginning to feel like giving dating another try, but I don't know what direction to go in. I guess I am just kind of waiting to see who steps up and take it from there. Any suggestions? Sincerely, Josiah P. Dear Josiah, Well look at you! I would be lying to not say that I am a bit envious. It is certainly nice to have options, especially good options. The only thing that I can tell you is not to rush. Take your time, get to know each of them, and decide what you want for yourself and your future. Don't wait for someone to step up, you take the reigns and choose who and what you want for yourself. Go on dates, ask questions, talk about the future, get an
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“We have built a home together and had even talked about having children. He came to me out of the blue, and said that he still has love for me...” idea of who they are in public and in private, then you make your choice. It is perfectly fine to date more than one person, until you make a commitment. Just make sure to be transparent. I hope that helps! Dear Andreus, After 5 years of marriage, my husband says he wants a divorce. I am completely blindsided because there have been no signs or issues. I have felt so much love, and we seemed to be doing well. We have built a home together and had even talked about having children. He came to me out of the blue, and said that he still has love for me, but he doesn't want to be married anymore. I am devastated to say the least, and of course I don't want to get a divorce. What should I do? Gerald M. Dear Gerald, I am so sorry to hear about your marriage. Unfortunately, I don't have a happy solution for you. The reality is that if he wants to go, let him. The worst possible thing to do, is to try to hold onto to someone who wishes to be set free. It will eventually take its toll on you both, and likely cause irreparable damage both psychologically and emotionally. I know that the idea of the divorce is painful, but best that you separate with the prospects of at least a friendship. The love has shifted, which he stated when he said he has love for you, which is different from being in love with you. Take the experience for what it was, and hopefully there will be even better things ahead.
HOT PUZZLE Viola Flicks 67 Circuit party, e.g. 68 Davis movie of 2011, with “The” DOWN
ACROSS
1 Oz of Israeli lit 5 Kahlo's cohort 10 Welcome words after S&M 14 Cathedral of ___ 15 Strung along 16 Porn star Hartley 17 Sherman Hemsley religious sitcom 18 Rimbaud's room 19 Opening in a casino 20 Viola Davis plays the mom of the title role in this 2002 movie 23 "Peel ___ grape" 24 Early preposition 25 Sender of 1040 forms 26 Flap on a stallion's bridle 29 Cockade 33 Davis movie of 2016, with Denzel Washington 34 Davis played Veronica Rawlings in this 2018 movie
35 Site of valuable stones 36 Snail trail 40 Hissy by a prissy sissy 41 One, for James M. Barrie 42 Emily Dickinson, in her day 44 U-turn from WSW 45 Like one that comes on the beach 47 Alternate sp. 48 Brian of figure skating 50 Bulldoze, in Bath 52 ___-tat 54 Davis film of 2010, with Julia Roberts 57 Foam at South Beach 59 "C'est Moi," to Lancelot 60 “The Unicorn” author Murdoch 63 Mishima's continent 64 Babel building 65 Farm erection 66 “___ Back Down” (2012 Davis film)
>>>>>> To see answers, visit hotspotsmagazine.com/crossword 126 | HotspotsMagazine.com
1 You might say it when you get it 2 Home of Picasso's Stein portrait 3 Accepting of alternate life styles 4 Life, for one 5 On top of that 6 More like a bully 7 One sitting on one's ass 8 Patty Sheehan, for example 9 R.E.M.'s "The ___ Love" 10 Torn to pieces 11 First gay marriage and such 12 Words before about 13 “Cabaret”'s Kit-___ Klub 21 Go in only partway, at the beach 22 "You bet!" in Yucat·n 26 A neighbor of Copland? 27 Tèa of “Spanglish” 28 Petrol station choice 30 Comes up short 31 Wrap it around your package 32 Fruity-smelling compound 37 Poet Denise 38 It changes a seòor's gender 39 Robin's gay guys 42 Dreadlocks feature 43 "And ___ bed" 46 PLO VIP 49 Force into sex 51 Ill will lacking grace 53 On your toes 54 Sinead O'Connor's country 55 "Even ___ speak" 56 Lake traveled by Ohio ferries 57 Went out with 58 Club where you dance with a sailor 61 Not in the pink 62 Pacifier