Hotspots! March 30, 2023 (Issue 3807)

38th Year

HOW TO REACH US

MAIN OFFICE

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Hotspots magazine is published alternate Thursdays (26 issues/year).

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VP - Operations/Associate Publisher

ADMINISTRATION

VP - Development | Jamie Forsythe

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VP - TV & Digital | Darren Loli

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ART & DESIGN

Art Director | Frank Mendez Designer | Maria Espinal

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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 W MEG.org for more info.

NATIONAL ADVERTISING Rivendell Media, 212-242-6863

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Chris Azzopardi | Tom Bonanti

Maria Espinal | S. Elfman

Mike Jeknavorian | Andreus Quinones

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Coco Alarcon | Dale Stine | Dennis Dean | Robert Hadley

CELEBRITY HOST

Shawn Palacious (“Kitty Meow”)

LOGISTICS

Copyright 2023, 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.

WMEG also manages the Sculpture Walk project which is responsible for the installation of sculptures in public spaces in Wilton Manors.

u Watch Queer News Tonight streaming live Monday through Thursdays at 7 p.m. at HappeningOut.com

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

• Streaming Video Advertising

• Event Marketing

• Social Media

Juan Manzano & J.R. Davis

Business Manager | Alyson omas Administrative Assistant | Ryan Isom

Joshua Duke — (754) 200-1581 Dale Stine — (754) 333-0849

Florida AIDS Walk & Music Festival at Ft. Lauderdale Beach Park Photos: Coco Alarcon

Lexus International Gay Polo Tournament Returns to Wellington, April 6-9

The National Polo Center, Wellington's destination for polo and equestrian sports, will transform into a colorful five-day fete with celebrants coming from around the world to support the LEXUS International Gay Polo TournamentPresented by Douglas Elliman Real Estate (GPL) from April 6-9. Creating a culture of community, togetherness, and high fashion, the event inspires and empowers lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender individuals in sports and beyond.

“As our world continues to evolve, we remain a constant at the forefront, working to create inclusiveness and equality in not only polo and equestrian sports, but in the community as a whole,” shared Chip McKenney, founder of the Gay Polo League. “We are honored to have so many friends and allies join us each year.”

The robust itinerary for the 2023 event kicks off with the GPL Polo Players Welcome Reception (by invitation) on Thursday, April 6. Players gather for camaraderie, joie-de-vivre and much fun before the weekend's festivities fully begin. Everyone's favorite pre-event, the GPL Polotini Wigstock cock tail reception will take place on Friday, April 7 at The National Polo Center and will feature a hair-raising extravaganza and exciting special guests, cocktails, and light bites. Wigs are highly encouraged for this event!

Saturday, April 8 is the main event tournament and tailgate competition. Sixteen polo players from around the world will compete on the Isla Carroll West Field for the prize (and bragging rights) during both The Senator's Cup and The

Founders Cup beginning at 1pm. Not to be missed is GPL's world-famous tailgate competition. Tailgaters are already dreaming up their whimsical tablescapes and decor in preparation for the fun-spirited competitiveness that lines the polo field, with each tailgate becoming its own experience that collectively contributes to the overall flare and exhilaration of the day. Coveted awards for Best in Show, Best Cuisine, Best Cocktail, Best Single Tailgate, and Best Multiple Tailgate are up for grabs. All in attendance are anxiously waiting to see what themes tailgaters will bring to this years' competition. Favorites over the years have included themes from Steel Magnolias, Gray Gardens, Brunch at Tiffany's, Gay Polo League (GPL) yacht club, Gert's 1950's Beauty Salon, Wizard of Oz, and more. While each tailgater and team might be in competition, it is the desire for equality on and off the field that resonates with all in attendance. The impact that The Gay Polo League has made can be seen in the receiving of the Champion of Equity & Diversity in Sports award from the Palm Beach County Sports Commission in 2022. The first award from a non-gay organization, the recognition symbolizes that GPL has become an instrument of change and oftentimes introduces gay people into the lives and consciousness of people who may not have known gay people firsthand.”

Back again this year after a wildly successful launch is Haute House-- an exclusive tent filled with social influencers that add to the stardom of the event's attendees. The energy from the jovial

groups and vibrant scenes will once again uplift the athletes on the field feverishly pursuing title championship.

Acting on its vision of providing equality, pride, inclusion, and confidence for those who face discrimination simply due to having non-traditional sexual or gender identities, the tournament will once again be nefit the OnePULSE Foundation. In 2022, this GPL event raised $135,000 for the nonprofit organization, born after the tragic events that unfolded at Pulse Nightclub, where 49 people lost their lives in 2016. Aiming for even more money raised in 2023, the GPL is working tirelessly to support efforts by onePULSE to fund scholarships while creating a sanctuary for and to honor the victims who lost th eir lives.

“While triumphs in financial impact, anticipation, and attendance each year are always highlights, it is the thousands of athletes, supporters, and attendees celebrating diversity together as one that is truly what makes this event so special,” ended McKenney.

This year's event sponsors include Cherry Knoll Farm, Village of Wellington, Woodford Reserve, Churchill Downs, 3 Graces Dressage, and NOMAD. GPL members, players, and attendees will receive a GPL Preferred Rate of $199.00 per night, including Continental Breakfast, when they stay at the Hampton Inn Wellington. To receive the special GPL rate, reservations must be made directly with Robert Colletti, Robert.colletti@hilton.com, or by calling 561-472-9696.

Tickets and additional information can be found by visiting www.gaypolo.com.

Latinos Salud

Tiki-La Pool Party

Photos: JR Davis

By Scott Holland

March 31 to April 16

Miami Beach Pride returns for its 15th anniversary with events running from March 31 - April 16. What originally began as a parade down Ocean Drive has now transformed into programming spanning 17 days that celebrate the LGBTQ+ community. The festivities include lavish floats, a queer art showcase designed to support local artists, social justice night as the community faces increasing legislative attacks, celebrity guests of honor, live performances and much more. This year's 2-day festival presented by Celebrity Cruises has grown tremendously and promises to be the biggest and best iteration of Miami Beach Pride to date. With Miami Beach recognized as one of the most welcoming LGBTQ+ communities in the world, this year's theme of 'Growing Stronger Together' honors the progress made and the defiance needed for the future.

“With over 16 days of exciting events, there is truly something for everyone and we have maintained our commitment to keep much of our programming free for

the community to be as inclusive as possible,” says Bruce Horwich, Chairman of Miami Beach Pride.

“Growing from a 15,000person event in 2009 to now being one of the most celebrated Prides in the country with more than 170,000 attendees from all over the world, our goal is to honor our community all while having the message of unwavering resilience and uniqueness on full display along Miami Beach.”

The very popular Miss Miami Beach Pride Pageant takes place on Tuesday, April 4 at 7pm at Exchange Miami. Your current Miss Miami Beach Pride is on the current Rupaul's Drag Race season and a Miami native, Malaysia Babydoll Foxx. The formers are TP Lords

2014 Athena Dion 2015

Kalah Mendoza 2016

Joanna James 2017

Elisahly D' Witches 2018

Mhyia Iman Lepaige 2019

Estephania St Lords 2020.

The OG Miss Miami Beach Pride is Tiffany Fantasia 2013, when I asked Tiffany about this year's pageant, she said: “Miami Beach Pride is having its 10th Miss Miami Beach pride pageant. I can't wait for everyone to see what surprises are in store.”

The VIP Beach affair takes place on Friday night, April 14 at 7pm at Lummus Park and is hosted by the iconic Sandra Bernhard. It was a pleasure to sit down with Sandra for this exclusive Hotspots interview:

At what age did entertaining become an interest of yours or were you just born an entertainer?

I think I was born an entertainer, but I first articulated that I wanted to be a comedian at 5 years old. I was the youngest of 4 kids (Sandra has 3 older brothers) so I got used to entertaining people and I loved the response.

When did you know, entertaining was going to officially be your career?

When I was 19 and started at the comedy club circuit. It felt like things were evolving and this would be it. There were discouraging times, but I powered through them. I knew for sure I was going to focus on this when I was making enough to leave my manicurist job.

Who were your inspirations in the entertainment industry? There were so many, some of them are: Carol Channing, Mary Tyler Moore, Diana Ross, Tina Turner, Carol King, Joannie Mitchell, Barbara Streisand, Lily Tomlin, and Bette Midler.

You have performed all over the world. Do you have some favorite cities or venues?

I think in terms of my actual performing it would be NYC as it's my center. However, I do love performing

Line up of Events

* Pride Flag Raising Ceremony at Miami Beach City Hall on March 31, at 6pm.

* Pride Lights the Night Flip the Switch Event at Euclid Oval (600-700 block Lincoln Rd) on March 31, at 7:30pm.

* Fun Dip by Sweet Spot Official Kickoff Pool Party featuring DJ Deanne and DJ Abel at The Clevelander on April 1, at 1pm.

* Angel's Dinner at Baia Beach Club on April 3, at 7pm.

* Miss Miami Beach Pride Pageant at Exchange Miami on April 4, at 7pm.

* Pride Movie Night at Rooftop Cinema Club on April 6, at 6pm.

* 'In The Wyld' A Garden of Eve Preview Party at Gaythering on April 7, at 8pm.

* Easter Family Picnic at Pride Park on April 8, at 10am.

* Queer Art Showcase at Moxy Hotel on April 10, at 6:30pm.

* MDGLCC Spotlight Mega-Mixer on April 11, at 6pm.

* Social Justice, Health & Wellness Evening at O Cinema on April 12, at 6pm.

* VIP Beach Affair at Lummus Park hosted by Sandra Bernhard on April 14, at 7pm.

* Miami Beach Pride Festival at Lummus Park happening on April 15 and 16.

* Miami Beach Pride Parade on Ocean Drive will take place on April 16,

wherever there is a smart interesting audience.

You are a comedian, actress, singer, radio host, author, etc. Is there one you like better or are they equally satisfying to you?

I love them all equally and it's fun to keep shifting from one to another, so I don't get bored. It keeps life interesting for me. Tell me about your experience working on multiple projects with Ryan Murphy? When I met him, he told me he was a fan of mine form the 80's. He is a powerhouse and always thinking of new ideas and pushing things to the limit. He is a champion of the LGBTQ+ experience and has brought a lot of eyeballs to us. He is very important now more than ever.

I love it when you are on Watch What Happens Live with Andy Cohen. Is it as fun for you as it is for us watching?

Andy and I go way back, and my radio show is on his channel. We also see each other at the gym. He gets me and he has always been a big supporter and fan so we can just relax into it, and we always have fun together. Tell me something people would be surprised to know about you.

I love washing dishes and doing laundry and I am a huge organizer in my apartment. I fold my clothes and my girlfriend's clothes. I spend a lot of time organizing and its very relaxing to me as I like cleanliness and organization. Describe yourself in three words. Loyal, loving, and funny. What do you do for fun?

I love to cook, and hang out with friends, and of course go on vacations. I really do love to travel to exotic places.

“Politically Florida is not on my list for destinations, but I am hoping I can elevate the f*cking conversation so we can change things.”

How excited are you to host the VIP Beach Affair for the 15th anniversary of Miami Beach Pride?

I am very excited as I love Miami. Politically Florida is not on my list for destinations, but I am hoping I can elevate the f*cking conversation so we can change things. What does the future hold for you?

Hopefully a bunch of stuff. I have been writing a scripted project with my good friend Judy Gold. I recently signed a new manager and am getting new gigs, so that's exciting. In addition, I will continue to do my radio show and I will keep putting out the word to let people be and flourish.

Is there anything else you want to talk about?

I think our politicians are very caught up in petty drama all while our planet is in trouble and we are hanging in peril environmentally. Why is that not more of an important issue?

>> For more information on the talented and super nice (she really is down to earth) Sandra Bernhard check out her website: SandraBernhard.com

>> Other Featured Talent for the weekend will be:

Jonathan Bennett, Todrick Hall, Shangela, Jaymes

Vaughan, Inaya Day, Albita

Rodriguez, DJ Dan Slater, DJ Tony Moran, DJ Whitney Day ft. Mindy Jones, DJ Alex Ramos, DJ Tatiana, DJ Alex Ferbeyre, DJ Josh Riptide, and many more, so don't miss out!

>> For more information about these events and to purchase tickets, visit Miamibeachpride.com

Diversity Honors Returns

to the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino

Hollywood Saturday, April 1st, 7pm

By Scott Holland

Diversity Honors, the globally renowned celebration that benefits Harvey Milk Foundation and The Pride Center at Equality Park, exclusively hosted by Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino

Hollywood, will take center stage again, on Saturday, April 1, at 7pm to recognize those who are transforming lives by living authentically and advancing inclusiveness. This year, the foundation will honor Commissioner Nicole M. Ramirez with the prestigious Harvey Milk Medal; Carol Moran with The Pride Center at Equality Park Alan Schubert Award and Stoli Group's Global CEO Damian McKinney with the 2023 Global Business Leadership Award. Additional honorees for this year's event include Florida State Senator Shevrin “Shev” Jones, Drag TV Star and Entrepreneur Latrice Royale, South Florida Symphony Orchestra's (SFSO) President and CEO Jacqueline Lorber and Music Director Sebrina María Alfonso and the Bears of South Florida.

The party includes an open bar, a poolside dinner, and live entertainment by Vibe City Music, the gravity defying

AirOtic, a sexy acrobatic circus show, Lips' glam drag queen hostess Velvet Lenore, and roaming themed performers.

“Once again, we are honored to be back with our wonderful event partners at the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino, supporting two world-class organizations and

celebrating extraordinary LGBTQ+ leaders and allies who have lifted our spirits, strengthened our communities, and pushed us towards progress,” said Miriam Richter, Harvey Milk Foundation director. “In addition to our outstanding local honorees, we are privileged to be recognizing one of the

sold-out event every year, that fosters tolerance, acceptance and leadership for change to ensure equality, inclusiveness and a higher quality of life for LGBT+ communities across the globe.”

On a personal note, this year two people that have been friends for over 20 years, Latrice and Jacqueline, are being honored. I asked them what this honor means to them, and they responded:

Latrice Royale - What an absolute joy it is to be recognized at this year's Diversity Honors! Who would've thought that 30 years ago, when I stepped onto The Copa stage, that I would be at this place in my career? Through all my

“We are humbled by the growing support for this initiative, a sold-out event every year, that fosters tolerance, acceptance and leadership for change to ensure equality, inclusiveness and a higher quality of life for LGBT+ communities across the globe.”

trailblazing leaders of the LGBTQ+ movement, Nicole Murray Ramirez, as well as a trailblazer of the global business community, Damian McKinney.”

“It is a privilege for Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Hollywood to present, produce and celebrate Diversity Honors,” said Susan Renneisen, vice president of community affairs and special events for Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Hollywood. “We are humbled by the growing support for this initi ative, a

travel and success, South Florida has always been my home. I grew up in this community, and I've learned valuable lessons. I am still striving for excellence, while fighting the good fight for ALL of my community. I am truly humbled.”

Jacqueline Lorber"Sebrina and I are humbled and grateful to be recognized by Diversity Honors for our work and commitment to supporting and empowering South Florida's vibrant LGBTQ

community. With attacks on the LGBTQ community and other marginalized communities proliferating in recent years, standing united with our community is more important than ever. We believe that music has a wonderful ability to heal and to unite. As one of South Florida's leading arts organizations, which happens to be led by two gay women, uniting and healing our community is exactly what we intend to do."

I then had another good friend, Michael Goodman, from the fabulous Goodman PR, reach out for me to Stoli Group's Global CEO Damian McKinney to see how he feels about receiving the Global Business Leadership Award, and he said: ““It is humbling to receive such a distinctive award from an organization whose work for global equality and justice is so important and

United States who was assassinated shortly after winning a seat on the San Francisco Board of Supervisors and has since gone on to become an icon and beacon of light for the global LGBTQ+ community. This year marks the 45th anniversary of Harvey Milk's historic election.

Over the years, Diversity Honors has paid tribute to an impressive roster of honorees including TV personality, political blogger and best-selling author Meghan McCain, civil rights activist Dolores Huerta, president and founder of the Dolores Huerta Foundati on and cofounder of the United Farm Workers of America with Cesar Chavez, Judy and Dennis Shepard, Bollywood star Celina Jaitly, the Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School Gay-Straight Alliance, transgender YouTube viral inspiration

Ryland

impactful. The legacy of Harvey Milk, and our partnership with the Harvey Milk Foundation, have provided inspiration to Stoli Group's initiatives for LGBTQ+ support and visibility for many years, including the Stoli Harvey Milk Limited Edition series. Our recent work to support Ukraine as they face the horrors of war draws hope from these efforts, and with the 2023 Global Business Leadership Award at Diversity Honors we remain more boldly committed than ever to stay at the forefront in the fight for peace and acceptance for all people of this world”.

The event is a collaborative effort that will continue to keep South Florida on the international stage of LGBT+ rights and activism in honor of Harvey Milk, one of the first openly gay elected officials in the

Whittington, transgender teen activist Jazz Jennings, singer/actress Deborah Cox, Judge Rand Hoch, Phill Wilson, founder of the Black AIDS Institute, Congresswoman Ileana Ros- Lehtinen, Congressman Ted Deutch, and Mayor Dean Trantalis, among others.

Diversity Honors is exclusively hosted by Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Hollywood, with Platinum Sponsor DMK –Danne Montague-King, Diamond Sponsors Stoli Vodka, Hotspots/Happening Out Television Network, International Court System, and Seminole Coconut Creek Casino, and supporting sponsors GPR | Goodman Public Relations and Ludwig Framemakers.

Tickets are $250 per person for the cocktail chic event which includes an open bar, poolside dining and live entertainment. To reserve tickets, please visit www.DiversityHonors.org.

By Maria Espinal

La Fontana Ristorante

10702 NW 74th Street • Doral, FL 33178 • 260-366-8262

fontanaristorante.com • Mon – Wed 11:30am – 10pm • Thu

11:30am – 10:30pm • Sat 12pm – 11pm • Sun 12pm – 10pm

Created in 1980 and pass down three generations, La Fontana serves delicious home-tasting Italian favorites in an intimate and relaxed dining area. Located in Doral and downtown Miami, their menu is fantastic, from appetizers to their coffees. Love their pizza margherita, lasagna, pasta alla Bolognese and pasta carbonara. One of the features I love on their website is their recipes section, where you can watch videos with their chef and follow their recipes.

Pincho Burgers + Kebabs

133 NW 136th Avenue • Sunrise, FL 33325 • 954-626-8999

pincho.com • Sun – Thu 11am – 10pm • Fri – Sat 11am – 11pm Isn't yummy to have a delicious big burger? Next time you crave a burger with a kick, Pincho is the place to visit. Currently with 10 locations in Miami-Dade & Broward, the atmosphere at Pincho is very welcoming, along with the great tasting food. Their Toston Burger/Toston Chicken (fried plantains as buns, topped with provolone cheese, lettuce, tomato and cilantro sauce) is a most! For those who rather not eat red meat, s veggie burger is also on menu, as well as salads and white meat kebab. Other combos and bowls are available, as well as kids portions. Enjoy!

Japan Inn

1781 N. University Drive • Plantation, FL 33322 • 954-424-8855

japaninn.net • Mon – Thu 11:30am – 3pm & 4:30pm – 11pm

Fri – Sat 11:30am – 11:30pm • Sun 11:30am – 10:30pm

Since it first established in 1990, Japan Inn has been serving an extended variety of Japanese and Thai food including fresh sushi. Also in Weston and Doral, Japan Inn is also known for its sizzling hibachi tables. Highlights from their menu: Delicious Tom Kha Gai soup; out of the chef's menu, the Shakespeare, Flamingo and Sakura rolls are delicious. Their Pad Thai is also very good. Visit them online for lunch specials and their hibachi menus.

Luigi di Roma

718 S. Federal Hwy. • Deerfield Beach, FL 33441 954-531-6151 • luigidiroma.com • Daily 4pm – 10pm

Whether it's a romantic dinner for two or a large family gathering, the staff's main goal at Luigi de Roma is to make you feel at home, not a restaurant. Come in an enjoy their 1/2 Price Drinks and $7 food menu and Happy Hour, 4pm-6pm, seven days a week. You can't go wrong with Gorgonzola salad, Italian feast platter, veal chop Milanese or mussels sauté. Whole wheat and gluten-free pasta available upon request. Live music, indoor & outdoor dining.

HotspotsMagazine.com

Corn Mochi Bread/Cake

Recipes

By Andreus Quinones

2 cups of flour

2 cups of fresh or canned whole kernel corn

½ teaspoon of salt

1 tsp of baking powder

½ cup of milk or coconut milk

½ cup of sugar

1 teaspoon of vanilla extract

2 large eggs

¼ cup of melted butter

Preheat your oven to 350° F. And prepare (grease) an 8x8 pan with butter. In your blender or food processor, add the corn and milk. Blend until smooth and add all the other ingredients and continue to blend until smooth and thoroughly mixed. Pour into your baking dish and bake for 60 minutes. Allow to cool for at least 30 minutes before serving. It is great with milk!

HOT PUZZLE Decisions That I Regret

Down

1 Sat on, as the boss

2 Event for drawers

3 Composer Dvorak

4 Prefix that means "queer"

5 They hold balls in pool halls

6 Moon over the Niles?

7 Like LGBT employment discrimination

8 "Va-va-va-___!"

9 Like rival divas

10 "___ De-Lovely"

11 Tom Hulce's nemesis in “Amadeus”

12 Land of Princess Di

13 Bitch's collar attachment

21 Start of a WNBA game

22 Confidential matter

27 Full of angst

Eagle Wilton Manors Bears In The Alley Tropical Weekend’s Street Fair Photos: JR Davis

Love & Marriage Jason T. Gaffney’s New Series on Dekkoo is a Familiar Affair

By Jamie Booth

Jason T. Gaffney is lucky to have the best partners in life and work. His life partner is his husband, Matt. His work partner is his real-life father, Ed Gaffney.

“Dad and I started writing together years ago, back with 2012's The Perfect Wedding and discovered it was a good fit,” Jason T. explains. In addition to The Perfect Wedding, they have collaborated on the 2019 romantic comedy Analysis Paralysis and 2020's Out of Body.

Their latest project, Marriage of Inconvenience, is a series that follows two strangers who enter a witness protection program and must pretend to be happily married to hide their identities from the dangerous people who want them dead.

It stars Jason T. Gaffney as Owen, a slacker with anger issues and David Allen Singletary as Franklin, an obnoxiously rigid English professor who prides himself on his attention to detail. About the only thing the two men have in common is that

they're gay and people want to kill them. When forced to live together in a very small house as Mr. and Mr. Fulton, they quickly find they share something else in common: they can't stand each other.

At its core, Marriage of Inconvenience is a story of love and how it can come from the most unexpected of places. We spoke with the series' writer, director and star, Jason T. Gaffney to learn more.

Could Marriage of Inconvenience have been told twenty years ago?

The world is definitely more accepting of a show like Marriage of Inconvenience nowadays, for sure! It really is wonderful to see how far we've come. I am optimistic that the younger generation, and the older generation who fought for the rights we have today, are more than ready for a rom-com series like Marriage of Inconvenience. We've earned the right for our happily ever after!

What would you say is the funniest moment in the series?

This might be the hardest question I've ever been asked in an interview! It's impossible for me to pick just one moment. I'm a fan of physical comedy, so the slapstick scene where Owen and Franklin attempt to sleep in the same bed for the first time always makes me laugh.

You play Owen, a slob with anger problems. Was it a challenge to make his character loveable?

One of my favorite parts about Marriage of Inconvenience is that we flashback to Owen and Franklin's past, to before they are brought into witness protection. Learning where Owen's anger comes from and the fact that he is actively trying to manage it certainly helps make him more relatable. It's also really funny to watch someone with a short fuse attempt to control his anger when everything is exploding all around him.

Then there's Franklin. He, too, with that stick up his butt, makes him difficult to like. Franklin has had a difficult life. He was not

“I am optimistic that the younger generation, and the older generation who fought for the rights we have today, are more than ready for a rom-com series like

‘Marriage of Inconvenience’...”

handed anything on a silver spoon. He worked hard to get his education and become an English professor. I think that a lot of marginalized people, whether LGBTQ, BIPOC, or disabled, can relate to the idea that Franklin has to be better than everyone else to be viewed as an equal to those with systemic privilege. As the series progresses, Franklin learns to let his guard down a little and spending time with Owen helps him to enjoy life a bit more.

like, it is Franklin, but way less intense! I'm definitely more of the Owen in the relationship, although I have a bit of each character in me. I think there's a little bit of Owen and Franklin in all of us.

Is it always perfect bliss to live and work with your husband?

Absolutely not! We do a really great job of communicating with each other and finding common ground when there is conflict. In addition to that, we are both each other's biggest supporter and we do what we can to help each other realize our dreams. We are, after all, a team. But perfection is boring and I'm a huge fan of things that are perfectly imperfect.

What can “Marriage of Inconvenience” teach us about love and marriage?

It's important to be yourself in a relationship. Also, embrace love and laughter. We all need it in our lives!

“Marriage of Inconvenience” premieres on Dekkoo on April 6. For more information, visit dekkoo.com

You and David Allen Singletary, the actor who plays Franklin, have great chemistry.

I've been best friends with David for about two decades! I've wanted to work with him for the longest time and when I started writing Marriage of Inconvenience, I quickly realized this was the perfect vehicle for him.

In real-life, you're married to Matt, an executive producer on Marriage of Inconvenience...

Yes! I've been with Matt for over ten years and married to him for just shy of 7 years.

Is Matt a Franklin or an Owen?

If I had to pick the character that Matt is most

Lit Bar

3rd Year Anniversary

Photos: Coco Alarcon

Wicked at The Kravis Center Through April 9

By Scott Holland

The Broadway sensation Wicked will be in Palm Beach at the Raymond F. Kravis Center for the Performing Arts through April 9.

Wicked looks at what happened in the Land of Oz…but from a different angle. Long before Dorothy arrives, there is another young woman, born with emeraldgreen skin, who is smart, fiery, misunderstood, and possessing an extraordinary talent. When she meets a bubbly blonde who is exceptionally popular, their initial rivalry turns into the unlikeliest of friendships…until the world decides to call one “good,” and the other one “wicked.”

With a thrilling score that includes the hits “Defying Gravity,” “Popular” and “For Good,” Wicked has been hailed by The New York Times as “the defining musical of the decade,” and by Time Magazine as “a magical Broadway musical with brains, heart, and courage.” NBC Nightly News calls the hit musical “the most successful Broadway show ever.”

<<< Lissa deGuzman

The new touring cast includes Lissa deGuzman as Elphaba, Jennafer Newberry as Glinda, Natalie Venetia Belcon as Madame Morrible, Fort Lauderdale native Christian Thompson as Fiyero, Timothy Shew (The Wizard), Boise Holmes (Doctor Dillamond), Tara Kostmayer (Nessarose), and Kyle McArthur (Boq).

It was a pleasure to sit down with Lissa deGuzman (Elphaba) for this exclusive Hotspots interview:

At what age did you begin performing?

As a young child I did a few plays when I was in 5th or 6th grade, but then I took a big break as I was a big sports person and focused on soccer and basketball. It wasn't until sophomore year in high school when I picked it up again. My brother was always into theater, so I grew up going to shows, and he inspired me to audition for the high school musical, and here I am.

What was your first paid gig?

It was after my sophomore year of college and I worked at a summer stock theater, Highlands Playhouse, and I did Little Shop of Horrors, Pippin and 9 to 5. I remember being so excited that I was a professional and getting paid to do that.

When did you know performing would be your career?

I remember my junior year of high school, I was doing “Seussical the Musical,” and I loved it but my goal was to go to school for Dermatology. After the show my director pulled me aside and told me if I buckle down, I could make this a career and that was all I needed to hear to commit to making this a career. I was so excited, and he helped me tell my parents. That's when I knew I wanted to make it a career. In my senior year of college when I decided to fly back and forth to New York for auditions is when I knew I was doing the right thing and I could make this a profession.

Wicked and Elphaba are so iconic, is there extra pressure playing this role?

Yes, and its pressure I put on myself. Our team at Wicked do not give us any pressure and they do a really great job making sure each Elphaba is individual and comes from them, so its unique.

How hard is it to get in the green all the time?

I have gotten so used to it. Its actual not hard anymore, it's kind of soothing. We have it down to 15 minutes. I use that time as a centering technique.

Other than this one, what has been your favorite role so far?

It’s hard because I got to play Jasmine in Aladdin, but I think my favorite role was in King Kong. I was the understudy, but when I was on stage I got to play next to this gigantic puppet on Broadway. What's your fantasy role (a role you haven't played but want to)?

I would love to play Euripides in Hadestown, Is it hard being on the road all the time?

Once you get the hang of it, it isn't. I think everyone should be challenged to live out of two suitcases and learn what things you need and what you don't need. Also, I love the cities and trying the local foods. I have seen this country way more than most people have and I think that's really special. How well do you and your castmates get along?

We get along amazingly; I am really lucky to be working with these people. It makes the whole process so enjoyable. After almost every show they show up in my dressing room (as I am taking the green off) to say good night to each other.

Describe yourself in 3 words?

Spitfire, easygoing, and good-listener. What do you do for fun?

I like to cook and bake…banana bread is

one of my favorites. I also love different teas. In addition, I love Yoga and stretching.

What should our readers expect from this touring company of “Wicked”?

They should expect an amazing time. This show is for all ages and has something in it for everyone. It's a story of two women who would normally not be friends and their journey becoming friends and going from girls to women. It's a different perspecti ve to the Wizard of Oz. You can expect to come and laugh, and cry, and feel amazing at the end.

For more information on Lissa, you can follow her at: Instagram.com/lissadeguz For more information about WICKED, please visit WickedTheMusical.com.

Tickets in Palm Beach start at $63 and will be sold exclusively through the Kravis Center Box Office window or by visiting the official Kravis Center website Kravis.org or by calling the Kravis Center Box Office at 561-832-7469.

By Chris Azzopardi

On Zoom, where I recently met with Cara Delevingne, my '90s-retro, rainbow-speckled buttondown was, to my surprise, the first thing that came up.

“Nice shirt,” the modelactress told me, gushing when I mentioned picking it out of my closet in honor of just how queer “Planet Sex” is. The six-episode Hulu docuseries, which features Delevingne as sexcurious host, is still gayer than even the gayest rainbow shirt; within the first few minutes, Delevingne is judging a

queer twerking contest. In fact, the entire series, dedicated to the “sexy queertastic people of the world,” is devoted to investigating various realms of queerness — and in doing so, illuminating parts of Delevingne's own sexuality as a queer

genderfluid person. Over the course of the series, she attends her first-ever Pride festival and, with the help of Gottmik, the first openly trans performer on “RuPaul's Drag Race,” transforms into a butch drag king.

In our recent interview, Delevingne talked about how Hollywood affected her feelings on being queer, unlearning the shame around her sexuality, and why her identity now as a public figure is more authentic than ever.

How much did the current political climate right now play into just how queer and sex positive you made this show?

I think that's how I wanted it to be. Because I think queer under the umbrella, it all can mean anything. It just means being different, howev er way. Everyone is different; we are not all the same. We wanna fit in, we wanna belong. But at the same time we wanna be individuals. So I wanted it to include everyone. And I think in that is queerness. And I love that, that's my favorite thing in the world and I think leading with that, it brought me so much freedom. It brought me so much relief and love and, you know, it's where I learned how to love myself.

So from the bottom of my heart, that's what I wanted. I wish this kind of show existed when I was a kid. It would've made [it] so much easier. But I think the journey and the struggle and the adversity was something that made me who I am. But I just hope, especially in terms of people's families or when people watch this, that they can have conversations that may be tricky. Because they can at least find the right wording or

identify with a person that they see. Can you remember something — a film, a TV show — that you clung to that really made you feel more comfortable with being queer?

I don't know. The thing is… I guess I sought a lot of, like, Elton John or musicians. But there weren't a lot of female ones. It was men. And so that still kind of made me feel a little… less. I mean... [laughs] Billie Jean King? I met her. I was 22, though. So, it was a bit late. But not really. I think a lot of the things I surrounded myself were like… I guess porn was the first time I saw two gay women. But it wasn't good, and it was definitely… they weren't gay. I got scared of it, because I probably liked it.

You are a big deal star. And this is important because of your platform.

I thought you were about to say, "You're a big gay." I was like, thank you.

You are a big gay. A big ol' gay.

As someone with a massive following, though, I was wondering what are your feelings on how you've seen yourself versus how the media has portrayed who you are when it comes to gender identity and sexuality?

I think a lot of the times in the media, I was playing a part, always. But I was comfortable doing that because it meant I could kind of keep my own life to myself. But then to be honest, I didn't really ever process or actually deal with anything. Or see what I was going through as I was going through it because inside I felt just confused and

very lost, and very… without an identity, almost, because my identity was work. My identity was the parts I was given or the person I was meant to be or the brand I was working for. It wasn't really ever me. It was a whole, big old mess, really. It didn't really make sense. But then I think in the show, looking back on it, I realized how much I love being a woman. I am genderfluid, for sure, but I liked playing between masc and femme and all those things. And I just think the binary of gender was so constricted when I was younger. “Boys play with this and girls play with that.” And I didn't like what girls played with. But that didn't make me a boy. But I got confused within that because I just wanted the same opportunities. But again, I like to now decide when I really wanna be super femme or not. I like to be able to decide that because generally as a person I just like to be comfortable in what I look like and what I wear. But inside, I'm a woman and I'm sensitive. But I think it's a lot deeper than that. I have a lot of masculine energy in me. We all have feminine and masculine energy, every human being. So I think that was a big thing for me, because I did question it a lot. I was like, “Am I non-binary? What am I?” But I'm not. But I love anyone being and feeling how they [are]. I do think that gender is too binary. But then, for me, I was very happy to have my pronouns. It sounds like you learned a lot about yourself through making this show, and maybe got to the truth of who you are?

I guess especially in terms of relationships and kind of abolishing the shame. Which I didn't really have, but it made me realize how much I used to have and how much I hadn't dealt with it. And how much I just kind of brushed it aside when actually I was like, “What am I really looking at here?” But the narrative I had wasn't my own; it was other people's. So that shame wasn't really mine to hold and I had to give it back to the people who put it on me. You say in the show that growing up famous

I have a lot of masculine energy in me. We all have feminine and masculine energy, every human being. So I think that was a big thing for me, because I did question it a lot. I was like, ‘Am I nonbinary? What am I?’ ”

can stunt a person's growth, even when it comes to sexuality. I'm wondering specifically about Hollywood, because some people might think, “Oh Hollywood, it's so queer. It's a great place to immerse yourself if you're queer, to be accepted.” How did that affect your journey to discovering your sexuality?

It was not like that for me at all. One of my first experiences with it was actually Harvey Weinstein who said to me, “You cannot be with a woman.” He was just like, "We need to find you a beard." And I was like, “Who is this f*cking stupid fat man?” He wasn't nice. He was just a horrible man. Obviously we know that now. But he was like, "You'll never work. No one will believe you as a straight character." And I was like, “Oh, f*ck. That's bad.” So there was just stuff like that, especially I think as a model no one cared either way. But they weren't gonna celebrate it. I think it just stunts your growth a lot as in you don't have time to be yourself. Or at least I did not. I felt like everything that was happening in my life, emotions and things, I just had to shove it down and keep going. Which is no one

else's fault but my own. I just… it was an easy way to run away from my stuff. What was the most valuable takeaway for you from the whole experience of immersing yourself in queerdom through “Planet Sex”?

I think how much community and support is important. How much we can't do this alone, anyone. Life, I'm talking about, generally. That through community and through connection, we can do the things that were not possible to do alone. And loving that and appreciating that. But also being vulnerable in that. I think a lot of times I would just show up kind of giving a surface experience [of] myself and it wasn't real. Because I was just so scared of being rejected and so scared of people leaving, I guess. But I love myself. I'm me. Messy, done up, all the things. It just makes me who I am. And if I love that then that's the most important thing. I think a lot of this is more to do with self-love. I was just in a place of complete discovery. I was like, “Oh, what do I

“

I wish this kind of show existed when I was a kid. It would've made [it] so much easier. But I think the journey and the struggle and the adversity was something that made me who I am.”

believe about relationships? What do I believe about all of these things?”

Sometimes it's OK not to know either. It's OK not to know; it's OK to keep discovering. It's OK to question and wanna change. There were so many moments where I thought I had it all figured out or I wanted to so badly have it figured out because I was like, “Then I'll feel safe.” But the problem is it doesn't work like that. And sometimes you end up running into a dead end when you think you know it and you just don't. And it's OK.

Aside from “Planet Sex,” there's your part in “Only Murders in the Building,” where you play artist and gallerist Alice Banks, the love interest of Mabel Mora, played by Selena Gomez. Both shows feature queer representation, but “Only Murders” reaches people who may not see queer representation, or may not seek it out. That's why shows like that are so brilliant because it's not a gay show

where people go, “Oh this, I know, it's 'The L Word.' We know what we're getting here.” I think that's why mainstream media and mainstream shows should do that more often where it's not the main two characters or the whole story is based around queerness. It's like, queerness is everywhere. So that's how a show should be. It should be slipped in and it should be a conversation and it should be a part of it. When we wanna make queer content and we push it very hard, it's gonna reach just other queer people and not what we want it to be: more normalized. So that's why I was so grateful for that show and I think it was such an incredible way to do it. What's it like to bring that sort of representation to the screen with one of your closest and dearest friends, Selena Gomez?

I mean, it's an easy day of work, isn't it? It's great. Especially when you love each other and I respect her so much as an actress and as a person. So it was just fun. It was great. And that show in general. Steve [Martin] and Martin [Short], everyone. It was just brilliant. I was basically playing myself too. Apart from I'm not that evil. I'm not a psycho.

Will we see you in the next season?

No, I wish. The lesbian went too overboard. I think people had complicated feelings about that relationship in that last season. Yeah, they did. It happens. I get it. Alice Banks is a nutcase.

>> This interview has been condensed and edited for clarity.

Chris Azzopardi is the Editorial Director of Pride Source Media Group and Q Syndicate, the national LGBTQ+ wire service. He has interviewed a multitude of superstars, including Cher, Meryl Streep, Mariah Carey and Beyoncé. His work has also appeared in The New York Times, Vanity Fair, GQ and Billboard. Reach him via Twitter @chrisazzopardi.

“

...he was like, ‘You'll never work. No one will believe you as a straight character.’ "

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By

Dear Andreus,

I was recently getting to know this guy. It was obvious to both of us and everyone around us, that there was a spark. He was recently out of a relationship, so I was very careful not to push. I was just being present, and spending time with him, which he seemed to enjoy thoroughly. Even after three months, we didn't have sex, because I wanted to build on the friendship to see where it might go. He also seemed to be nurturing our time together. Suddenly, he gets introduced to someone else, and without even saying anything to me, starts to date the guy. This is after he told me that he didn't want to rush into anything with anyone. I don't know how to feel. Should I confront him, or just let it go.

Sincerely,

Antonio R.

Dear Antonio,

It seems like he has made a choice. You should not feel bad about that, because we are not always the perfect fit for the people we might like. Maybe the Universe has someone else in store for you. Being that he made this choice, I don't know that it is even worth confronting him about it. What do you expect to get from the confrontation? Also, it might be a good thing that this happened before you got in too deep. He clearly showed you his concern or lack thereof for your feelings. I have a personal philosophy, which is – “Never cross rivers for someone who would not hop a puddle for you.” Honesty, communication, and transparency are everything! I hope this helps.

Dear Andreus, I met someone, but both of us are not too long out

of relationships. All my friends keep telling me that it is too soon, but I really like him. He says that he is getting the same feedback from his friends. We enjoy every moment we spend together, and it just feels right. Not that I am in a rush, but my heart tells me that this is it. What should I do?

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Dear Patrick,

Of course, rushing is never a good thing, because after a relationship we should give ourselves time to heal. That being said – only the two of you can determine your next steps. If it feels right to both of you, then it's not really anyone else's business to decide otherwise. Talk about it, decide what you want for yourselves. Maybe take it in steps, before making any major decisions (like moving in together). Spend a healthy amount of time together, and a healthy amount of time apart. Maybe get to know each other's friends. If it is meant to be, it will happen… whether that is tomorrow or a year from now. Best of luck to you both!

Andreus Quinones

“Suddenly, he gets introduced to someone else, and without even saying anything to me, starts to date the guy...”