hot shots photos by mike halterman & pat o’rouke
Parliament House 41st anniversary
Parliament House 41st anniversary
hot shots photos by mike halterman
from the publisher Welcome to the second edition of the brand new Hotspots Central! We are so proud to be the longest running LGBT publication in Florida and even more proud to dedicate ourselves to serving our community right here in Central Florida. It has been an amazing journey as we continue plans to grow both Hotspots Central and Mark’s List platforms. In light of the seismic shift in attitudes we are seeing toward our community, especially after the tragedy in Orlando, our mission is to continue building a stronger, more united community. I sincerely hope you enjoy this edition filled with great content, features and photos that focus on our vibrant LGBT community right here in Central Florida. Thank you for your being a part of this amazing journey!
Central Florida Edition August, 2016
Publisher/Marketing Director Peter Clark Peter@HotspotsMedia.com
Associate Publisher Scott Holland Scott@HotspotsMedia.com
Editor Mike Halterman Mike@HotspotsMedia.com
Business Manager Brian Burda & Efrain Grosso-Ortiz Brian@HotspotsMedia.com
National Brand Manager Tom Christ Tom@hotspotsmedia.com
Art Director Maria Espinal Maria@HotspotsMedia.com
Digital Media Christine Veiga Christine@HotspotsMedia.com
Graphics Graphics@HotspotsMedia.com
Maria Espinal Frank Mendez Maureen Hyman
Sales Team Sales@HotspotsMedia.com Senior Account Reps
Tom Christ & JB Burgos National Advertising Rivendell Media 212-242-6863 • sales@rivendellmedia.com
CONTACT US
Central Florida Office: 813-253-9107 11 N. Summerlin Ave., Suite 210 | Orlando, FL 32801 5090 N.E. 12th Avenue | Oakland Park, FL 33334 Phone 954-928-1862 | Fax 954-772-0142 Miami Office: 305-775-5265
HotspotsCentral.LGBT Info@HotspotsMedia.com • HotspotsMediaGroup.com Facebook.com/HotspotsCentralFlorida
Feature Writers Mike Halterman Scott Holland | Woody Miller | Billy Masters Ian Maloney | Jerry Perez | JB Burgos
Photographers Tony Fowler | Snap Out Loud! Stephen R. Lang | Pat O’Rourke Mike Halterman
Logistics Randy Justice
Hotspots Central is published by HOTSPOTS MAGAZINE OF FLORIDA at 5090 N.E. 12th Avenue Fort Lauderdale, FL 33334. Opinions expressed are not necessarily the opinion of HOTSPOTS MAGAZINE or any of its staff. Publication of the name or photos of any living person or organization in articles or advertising in HOTSPOTS MAGAZINE is not to be constructed as any indication of the sexual orientation of such person or organizations. All copy, text, display, photos and illustration in the ads are published with the understanding that the advertisers are fully authorized, have secured proper written consent for the use of names, pictures, and testimonials of any living person, and Hotspots Magazine may lawfully publish and cause such to be made. Advertisers automatically agree by summiting said ad to indemnify and save blameless the publisher from any and all liability, loss and expense of any nature out of the publication. The deadline for Hotspots th Central is the 20 of every month at 5pm. In the event that an ad is excepted after deadline, the advertiser agrees by submitting such an ad to indemnify and save blameless the publisher from any and all liability, loss and expense of any nature that arise from any error that may be made in said ad. All rights reserved. Reproduction in part or in whole of this publication without written permission is strictly prohibited. Hotspots is a registered trademark.
on the inside
Central Florida Edition August, 2016
Hollywood
Christopher Meloni from Oz and Law & Order: Special Victims Unit certainly doesn’t mind attention from the gays.
56 58 content: • • • • • • • • •
From the Publisher Backstage Food for Thought Genre Latino Hit List Hollywood Inside & Out Listen to This! What’s Hot Central Florida Need Wood Hot Spots Hotties
this month’s features:
Cover photo by: Chris Stephenson
hot shots
Parliament House 41st anniversary Flamingo Resort Amber Live Honey Pot’s Steam Fridays City Side Pulse Benefit
• • • •
MBA Orlando Savoy Balance Tampa bay Small Business Spotlight Priority • Health • Patty Sheehan
What’s
HOT
...everything you need to plan your month
653 Maguire Blvd Suite #800 Orlando, FL 32803 (407) 558-0725
Sunday 12PM - 5PM Monday - Saturday 10AM - 7PM
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250+ STYLES OF SWIMWEAR 200+ STYLES OF UNDERWEAR
what’s what’s hot hot everything everythingyou you need need to know to plan your Month I use all the dating apps I can to harvest a few dates, but I’m not having much luck. Is there some kind of code that I can’t seem to crack? Why am I only attracting freaks, flakes and femmes? I’m wondering if you would take a look at my profile and tell me Hello, Hotspots how I could improveCentral it. read-
H
ers! Welcome once again to the -- Desperate for better hits What’s Hot column. For those of you who are just picking up Dear Desperate: the magazine for the first time, I looked yourkeep profile. this columnat will youYou up couldn’t attract men if hotyou to date with the absolute wore magnets.events You’re test nightlife in doing Tamso things wrong pa many Bay, Orlando, andI hardly points know where toWe’re start. also So rather in between. your than pick your (the connection to profile many apart activities Rapture would come before and events organized by localI finished) let organizations me just give and you LGBT service some of the for meeting chambers of rules commerce. Want higher guys. to knowquality What’s Hot in August?
c) You’ve probably got a face that’d knock a buzzard off a gut wagon d) You’re somebody’s boyfriend and you don’t want him or his friends seeing you online. Would you expect guys to approach you in a bar if they couldn’t see your face? Then why would you expect guys online Jocelyn to do it? Summers, Put your face pics ing Monica in your and profile I promise Moore, a and special guest! your hit rate will go Dunedin Lanes is up. located at
2. Smile. 405 Patricia Ave. in Dunedin. It’s the second best thing you can do with your Friday, August 5 lips. It’s also a shortcut to the bedroom. Think abouttheit—would Tonight through 13th at you ever approach Parliament House somebody Orlando’s
4. Write An Attention-Getting Headline.
Which one of these four profile headers would attract your attention? A. “Hello” B. “You May be the One I’m Looking for” C. “Looking to Meet New People” D. “Willing to Lie About How gear. At 1 a.m., there will be We Met!” a Obviously, finger painting contest, the last one. with The prizes sponsored by Hamburgmore unique (and humorous) er Pub House. Music by youMary’s can be, the more attention DJ Reagan. you’re going to get. A few months ago we fea5. Get A Credible Username tured Stonewall Bar Orlando in You are not going to attract
Read more and find out!
1. Show your face.
Profiles withAugust face shots get Thursday, 4 waaaayyy more hits than those that don’t.is Here’s what Night most Tonight Gay Bowling people would think It if they a at Dunedin Lanes! costssaw $10 headless pic ofcosmic your body: for unlimited bowling a) It10 must be to hard youand to from p.m. 2 for a.m., chew a mouth there food is awithout special discount You’re a closetBecase who’s forb)new bowlers! prepared going to fabulous make themGay signBowling a confor the
fidentiality before drag show atagreement midnight, featurthey go home with you
in a bar if Theatre, they had there a sneer Footlight willthat be would Of a new scare kind Satan’s of talk jackals? show...The courseTalk not.Show, that is! It’s a Penis frank (no pun intended) discus3. Be Specific In Your Profile. sion about male anatomyguys, with If you want masculine three men who leave nothing to for example, say something the Go to phouse. like imagination. this: “If the only textile you ticketleap.com to we’re purchase can name is ‘denim’ going your tonight to gettickets. along. Showtime If you can’t tell is 7:30 p.m. between ecru, theat difference This off-white, month’s NeiBEARhood cream, and eggshell Takeover we’re goingtheme to date.atAndSouthif you ern is “Hot don’tNights have aTampa problem takingfor a Teacher”. Bringrestrooms school supdump in public beplies underprivileged youth causeforyou think the world is and will we’re receive a surprise! youryou toilet, going to get The TampaRemember, Bay Bears will be married.” details in attendance, as will Gobearr, attract. Generalizations deselling tract. sexy leather and fetish
a quality guy with a username the pages of Hotspots and told like BlondBottom4U. No, realreaders about their extensive ly. You’re not. So stop it. Use renovations. Now those renoone that describes some asvations are completely finished pect of you, like Skier2010 or and they want to commemoSciencegeek. rate this milestone with a grand 6. Connectparty! WhenFrom You Reach Out.to opening 10 p.m. just say can “hey,” or 2 Don’t a.m., attendees expect “what’s up.” Or worse, “Looking prizes, surprises, giveaways, for some to (Will plow?” and muchhole more. theLeave merthe trash talk for the bedroom. man make a special appearRespond to something their ance? Attend the grandinopenprofile ing andso findthey out!)know you invested someResort time in in contacting Flamingo St. Pethem (as opposed to sending a tersburg is welcoming the mass email to everyone with a Brotherhood of Bears for a spepulse). For example, if his procial bear-themed weekend, with file festivities says he’s kicking into rock the off bands today then email him with a question
and going on through Sunday. DJ Neon the GlowGoBear will be spinning the hottest hits all wekend long! This event is produced in partnership with the Tampa Leather Club, Bear Soup Tampa, the Orlando City Bear Club, and Hunks Orlando. To reserve your room, call (727) 321-5000.
a.m., and there will also be a cute swimsuit contest, with $300 in cash and a $150 MojoMan Swimwear & Clothing gift certificate given to the person wearing the best one. Leigh Shannon’s monthly “Il-
jock and receive free cover until midnight. The best costumes will win cash and prizes! Don’t miss the freshman lineup show at 10:30 with MrMs Adrien, and then the main show at midnight with Axel Andrews, Roxxxy Andrews and Kai’ja Adonis. Music by DJ Dlux. Friday, August 12
Did you know SAVOY Orlando is turning the big 1-2? Help owner Brandon celebrate the 12th anniversary weekend right by attending his parties tonight, tomorrow and Sunday night. You can read Brandon’s interview with Hotspots Central in this issue.
Saturday, August 6
Saturday, August 13
Balance Tampa Bay’s annual Masquerade Ball begins tonight with a VIP reception at District 3 in Tampa at 7 p.m., followed by general admission at 8:30.
To buy your tickets, visit tampamasquerade.com, and read more about the event as we talk to Scott Kligmann later in this issue. Parliament House Orlando received a great response from their last nighttime pool party, so much so that they’re bringing it back! Tonight only, the pool will be open until 3
lusions in Revue” show will be pulling into Hamburger Mary’s Orlando tonight! Enjoy the finest celebrity impersonations and illusions Church Street Station has to offer! Reserve your table for 7:30 so you will be all ready for the 8:30 show; you can do so by calling (321) 319-0600. Club Main Street in Lakeland is going to Broadway! Nicky Monet will join Kathryn Nevets and the show cast for a walk down the Great White Way...will we hear selections from “Anything Goes”? “The Lion King”? “Sweet Charity”? You’ll have to attend to find out. The evening kicks off at 9 p.m. Thursday, August 11
Come to Southern Nights Tampa tonight wearing anything but clothes! Be creative
with your outfit because the winner will walk away with $150 in cash and prizes! The evening will be hosted by Roxxxy Andrews, and there will be a show featuring performers Jade Embers, Jeffrey Kelly and Kylie Blak. The Tampa Bay Outlaws and
Southern Nights Orlando’s Rush Thursdays theme to start off school this year is “Nerds vs. Jocks”. Dress as a nerd or a
Hotspots Central Florida
HotSpotsCentral.LGBT
what’s what’s hot hot everything you to need to know to plan Month everything you need know to plan youryour Month DJ Aleta will join forces with Metro Wellness and Community Centers for a rousing barn dance this evening from 6:30 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. Bring a friend or significant other along for some great country tunes and equally great company. Contact James at jamesk@ metrotampabay.org for more information. Rewind to the glory days of Tracks nightclub with two special Tracks revue shows at
Thursday, August 18
Tonight, Friday and Saturday promise to be three big days for merriment and celebration at Southern Nights Orlando
as the current incarnation of the venerable name celebrates its second anniversary. Visit facebook.com/southernnightsorlando for more information about their lineup. Sawmill Resort in Dade City is
more information, read our feature on the gala in this issue. Catch the Del Shores play “Sordid Lives” for the next two weeks in the Footlight Theatre at Parliament House Orlando. Produced by Tim Evanicki and directed by Kenny Howard, the play will feature locally-known actors in the roles we know and love. Showtime tonight is at 7 p.m. For more info, visit phouse.ticketleap.com. Saturday, August 20 One of our local queens, Anita Waistline, is celebrating
Bradley’s on 7th in Tampa. Tonight, hostess Joey Brooks will perform with Esme Russell, Amy DeMilo and Natasha Richards. Showtimes are at 11:30 p.m. and 1:15 a.m. Tuesday, August 16
Enigma in St. Petersburg inaugurates its new weekly theme night tonight, “You Got Served”, which is geared toward service industry workers. The company with the largest representation of workers will receive a $200 bar tab to be used the next month. The evening will be hosted by Kori Stevens and music will be provided by DJ L Mo.
hosting a summer bear weekend featuring lots of nudity! Join them for fun “lumberjock” games, mud wrestling, and much more! Also, stay for the weekend and experience the lumberjock foam party. Want to reserve your cabin for the weekend? Call them at (352) 583-0664. Friday, August 19 Who will win MBA Orlando’s Pride in Business Awards? Find out tonight by attending the special gala in honor of the organization and its honorees. Arrive at 7 p.m. at the Sheraton Orlando North in Maitland. For
her birthday tonight! Join the current Miss Pulse titleholder at Southern Nights Tampa for a big birthday blowout, featuring a special show hosted by Jade Embers and starring Roxxxy Andrews, Desiree DeMornay and Maddelynn Hatter. Music by DJ Scott Robert. What do you wear to bed? That question will be answered
tonight at BarCodes Orlando’s pajama party. There will be fabulous prizes given out to
programs by seeing which of our young people has a well of uncontainable talent. Tickets are $5 and participants are welcome up to the age of 22. Sunday, August 21 Enjoy fun pool games and a large slip ‘n’ slide this afternoon at Flamingo Resort in St. Petersburg! Your poolside hostess will be Jaeda Fuentes and she will preside over the pool games from 2 to 4 p.m., followed by the Sunday tea dance. Want to book a room? Call (727) 321-5000.
attendees, one each hour. The grand prize is two tickets to see Maroon 5 at the Amway Center on September 9. Certain sales this evening will benefit the Orlando Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence. Parliament House Orlando’s annual Vegas casino night has
arrived! The Central Florida tradition raises money for the programs at the Hope and Help Center of Central Florida. Enjoy a variety of casino games while donating to a good cause. Derrick Barry from RuPaul’s Drag Race season eight will be this evening’s special guest, performing with the Footlight Players. Metro Wellness and Community Centers is hosting their youth talent night tonight at 7 p.m. at the St. Petersburg offices. Support Metro’s youth
Monday, August 22
nights. You can buy your tickets by going to stageleftshows. com. Thursday, August 25 RuPaul’s Drag Race AllStars is back, and competing
this season are local queens Roxxxy Andrews and Ginger Minj! Roxxxy will be hosting this season’s viewing parties starting tonight at Southern Nights Orlando, and MrMs Adrien will co-host, so shantay you stay around for a great time! Friday, August 26
It’s time once again for one of my favorite pageants, Miss Comedy Queen. The national finals will be held tonight and tomorrow night at 8 p.m. at Parliament House Orlando. At the end of it all, Dee Ranged will crown her successor. Also, Addison Taylor will be celebrating her 10th anniversary at this year’s event. Monday tickets are priced at $10-$20 and Tuesday tickets from $20-$30; go to anrtickets.com to learn more. Wednesday, August 24 See actor and comedian Leslie Jordan in his one-man show tonight and tomorrow night at 7:30 p.m. in Parliament House Orlando’s Footlight Theatre. After a completely sold out run the last time he was here, Jordan returns for two consecutive
The employees of Flamingo Resort in St. Petersburg will be ready for their close-ups as they participate in this year’s annual turnabout program. It starts at 9:30 p.m. on the Cabana Stage, and all proceeds raised will benefit the AIDS Service Association of Pinellas. Wednesday, August 31 Playwright, comedian and actor Del Shores brings his “SINgularly Sordid” show to Parliament House Orlando’s Footlight Theatre for a twonight engagement only. You will laugh until you cry as he spins a yarn and tells you what he did and did not like about growing up in the South. Showtimes are at 7:30 p.m. both nights. Go to phouse.ticketleap.com for more information.
Hotspots Central Florida
HotSpotsCentral.LGBT
by mike halterman
MBA Orlando's 2016 Pride in Business Awards Gala Friday, August 19 Sheraton Orlando North
T
The Metropolitan Business Association (MBA) Orlando, the LGBT chamber of commerce in interior Central Florida, will be hosting their annual Pride in Business Awards Gala. As a result of a conflict with the recentlyannounced Orlando Strong charity benefit concert at Camping World Stadium, the gala will be moved one day ahead from the date previously announced, to Friday, August 19. The venue this year is the Sheraton Orlando North Hotel, located at 600 N. Lake Destiny Rd. in Maitland. "Moving the date...allows our members and sponsors to enjoy a top-notch gala experience, while also supporting exciting fundraising opportunities that are currently under development," Lu MĂźller-Kaul, MBA President, said in
a release to media outlets. The Orlando Strong concert will raise money for the groups that used their own resources to help victims and their families before nationwide fundraising efforts were commissioned, such as the OneOrlando Fund and the Equality Florida Fund. MBA Orlando, and its daughter organization Come Out with Pride, were two such organizations. People who wish to attend the Pride in Business Awards Gala this year will be treated to a sponsor's reception, beginning at 7 p.m. with an open bar and hors d'oeuvres in the atrium. The silent auction will also open at this time in the main corridor. The doors to the ballroom, where the gala will be held, will open at 7:45, with the awards and dinner held from 8 to
11. During the awards, attendees will be served a gourmet offering from an Irish chef, as well as complimentary champagne and sparkling wine. Afterwards, there will be an after party at the adjacent An Tobar Irish Pub in the hotel; a dance party featuring music from a noted One Magical Weekend DJ will begin shortly after 11 p.m. Want to stay the night at the hotel? You can do so (rates starting at $89 per person) and then attend the official poolside brunch at 10 a.m. the next day. For more information on rooms, visit sheratonorlandonorth.com. Tickets are (as of press time) priced at $115 per person and sponsor packages are available from $2500 upwards. For more information on tickets and p a c k a g e s , v i s i t
mbaorlando.org/gala. I spoke with MBA Orlando Pride mbaorlando.org/gala. Gala Committee Chairwoman Deb I spoke with MBA Orlando Pride Ofsowitz aboutChairwoman the upcoming Gala Committee Deb Pride in Business Gala and Ofsowitz about Awards the upcoming what look for in prospective Pride they in Business Awards Gala and honorees in this for what they look for ininterview prospective Hotspots honoreesCentral. in this interview for Hotspots Central.
What does the committee look for Tell us a little bit about the venue. in prospective award nominees? Sheraton North is a What does the committee look for TellThe us aOrlando little bit about the venue. must nominees? fulfill the The beautiful, newly renovated hotel inNominees prospective award Orlando Sheraton North is aon
following criteria considered Nominees mustto befulfill the for an award: must visibly following criteriaThey to be considered support the LGBT for an award: Theycommunity must visiblyby providing and/or support thecontributions LGBT community by in-kind services to non-profit providing contributions and/or in-kind servicespolitical to non-profit organizations, issues, or organizations, political issues,they or community-wide causes; community-wide causes; must reside and work in thethey sixmust reside and work inarea; the sixcounty metro Orlando they county Orlando area;highest they must metro exemplify the must exemplify theprofession; highest standards in his/her standards in his/her profession; they must demonstrate they must anddemonstrate excellence success in excellence and or success in his/her business profession; his/her or profession; and theybusiness must promote diversity, and they must promote diversity, equality, and inclusivity in his/her equality, and inclusivity in his/her workplace or in a professional workplace capacity. or in a professional capacity.
What's different about this year's What'swhen different about thistoyear's gala compared past gala when compared to past years? years? This year's event differs from past
Second, we are are making making the the whole whole Second, we event an opportunity for people to event an opportunity for people to participate at all levels. There are participate at all levels. There are large sponsorshippackages packages large value value sponsorship available but also, also, one one can can available but sponsor a table table centerpiece centerpiece for for sponsor a only And just just by by buying buying aa only $50. $50. And ticket, (or businesses) businesses) will will ticket, people people (or have names appear appear in in the the have their their names program on on aa special special thank thank you you page.
How can people get involved with How peopleandgetwho involved withtalk MBAcanOrlando can they MBA Orlando and who can they to about this while at the gala?talk toThe about thisway whiletoatgettheinvolved gala? in the best
The M best B A wayi to s gettinvolved o e in mthe ail Minfo@mbaorlando.org BA is to e and m a i get l info@mbaorlando.org and get signed up for the weekly newsletter signed up for the weekly newsletter to learn about MBA events. Then to learn about MBA events. Then start attending mixers, join the start attending mixers, join the organization, and GET INVOLVED organization, and GET INVOLVED by volunteering for one of the by volunteering for one of the committees. MBA Board members committees. MBA Board members and ambassadors will be visible at and ambassadors will be visible at the Gala and available to talk! the Gala and available to talk!
This year's event differs from past events in two big ways. events in two big ways.
First, we have expanded the event. First, we have expanded the event. There will be a pre-event reception There will be a pre-event reception for regular ticket holders in addition for regular ticket holders in addition to a private sponsor reception. to a private sponsor reception. After the gala awards and dinner we After the gala awards and dinner we will have exclusive use of the will have exclusive use of the Sheraton Orlando North's An Tobar Sheraton Orlando North's An Tobar Irish Pub for an after party. And the Irish Pub for an after party. And the next morning, we will have exclusive next morning, we will have exclusive use of the pool for three hours for a use of the pool for three hours for a poolside brunch. poolside brunch.
the northnewly side of town. Because beautiful, renovated hotel onthe MBA Orlando the six-county the north side ofserves town. Because the Metro Orlando area, thought it MBA Orlando serves thewe six-county important to area, not concentrate Metro Orlando we thought itour event only theconcentrate attractions/resort important toinnot our event the attractions/resort area.only Wein have been downtown and area. have been downtown and nearWe the attractions and resorts near thehad attractions andnorth. resorts but we not yet been The but we had not yet been north. Sheraton Orlando North hasThe also Sheraton Orlando has alsous been a joy to workNorth with allowing been a joythe to work allowing us to offer afterwith party and nexttoday offerpool-side the after party and nextbrunch. I think day pool-side attendees are brunch. going to I bethink quite attendees going to be quite impressedarewith everything about impressed this hotel. with everything about this hotel.
Nomination forms include an Nomination forms include an area to describe why this person area to describe why this person or business is being nominated. or business is being nominated. The committee will willread readthese these The committee statements and and use use them them toto statements furthernarrow narrowdown downthe theresults. results. further Committee members own Committee members own personal experiences with any personal experiences with any ofof the nominated nominated individuals individuals the and/orcompanies companiesmay mayalso alsoplay play and/or role.And Andofofcourse coursethere therewill willbebe aarole. discussionand anddebate. debate.[Editor's [Editor's discussion Note: Final selection of honorees Note: Final selection of honorees willbe bepublicized publicizedas aswe wego gototopress press will forthe theAugust Augustissue.] issue.] for
DebOfsowitz Ofsowitz Deb Formore moreinformation information MBA For onon MBA Orlando, visit mbaorlando.org. Orlando, visit mbaorlando.org. "Like"them themononFacebook Facebookatat "Like" facebook.com/mbaorlando. facebook.com/mbaorlando.
HotspotsCentral CentralFlorida Florida Hotspots
HotSpotsCentral.LGBT HotSpotsCentral.LGBT
hot shots photos by tony fowler
Flamingo Resort Amber Live
by mike halterman
S
SAVOY Orlando (1913 N. Orange Ave.) has been a staple in the Central Florida LGBT nightlife scene ever since it opened its doors twelve years ago. For the past few years, owner Brandon Llewellyn has been placing his own imprint on the venerable bar and nightclub, finishing a major remodel last year which spruced up the indoor bar space as well as the outside patio. Now, he would like to extend an invitation to all of you to attend the 12th anniversary celebrations, which will start on Friday, August 12 and will go on through Sunday, August 14 (the actual date of the anniversary). There will be special shows by the SAVOY Stars, and special surprise DJs will be spinning each night! I talked to Brandon Llewellyn about SAVOY's anniversary and how proud he must feel today in this special chat with Hotspots Central.
As a bar owner, how does it feel when you celebrate another year in business? Also, does the task of running a bar become more exciting to you with each passing year?
Each year is different and exciting. The anniversary always brings
Celebrates Its 12th Anniversary August 12-14 about reflecting on the previous year - what changes were made? What worked? What didn't work? What could be done better? Did SAVOY make a difference in the community? And then the goals are set for the new year. We want SAVOY to continue to evolve and be impactful in our community.
Are there any changes coming up that you'd like for us to know about?
One big change is that, unfortunately, by the time anyone is reading this, that the "Locker Room" will have closed. We will be moving our liquor store (Ivanhoe Wine & Spirits) there and forming a new concept for the neighborhood. The rest of SAVOY will also be going through a few positive changes over the next couple months!
What would you like to say to your employees and your customers on the occasion of SAVOY's anniversary?
Honestly, how much we appreciate them. We could never had made this happen without their support and suggestions. So many people have a real vested interest in
SAVOY. They have been coming here for years and it is "their bar" they care and have really offered suggestions as well as help when needed. It means so much to us. I guess my answer really is: for both staff and our guests, what I most want to say is thank you, so much. I am more grateful than words could really ever say. Savoy Orlando 1913 North Orange Ave Orlando, FL 32804
Brandon Llewellyn Find out more about SAVOY Orlando by going to savoyorlando.com and facebook.com/savoyorlando.
Hotspots Central Florida
HotSpotsCentral.LGBT
Hotspots Hotties Gadiel Vazquez “Tony”
Leigh Shannon
Ages?
Gadiel: 21 Milan: 21
Signs?
G: Capricorn M: Leo
Nationality?
G: Puerto Rican M: Italian
Single or married?
G: Single M: Taken
photos by chris stephenson chris@snapoutloud.com
Milan D’ Marco
Perfect date?
G: Netflix & chill? I don't know, as long as there's food I'm good. M: Pizza always pizza anywhere anytime pizza.
What do you do for a living?
G: Hospitality management during the day; club dancer at night M: Dancer and costume designer for local entertainers.
What do you do for fun?
G: I exercise, play volleyball, sometimes I draw, go on random adventures, learn new things, Pokemon Go and dancing M: I like to go to the beach, the gym, do stuff with my dog, and various physical activities.
What does the future hold for you?
G: Growing in the hospitality and entertainment business M: Continuing to show support for Pulse and my community, furthering my education, and hopefully being able to help my community.
Hotspots Central Florida
HotSpotsCentral.LGBT
Saturday, August 6 at District 3
Balance Tampa Bay Presents the 2nd Annual Masquerade Ball Benefiting Francis House
B
Balance Tampa Bay, a nonprofit LGBT organization whose mission is to "provide fun, philanthropy, fellowship and mentorship" in Pasco, Pinellas and Hillsborough Counties, is bringing back their signature
fundraiser of the year, the Masquerade Ball. This year, Balance Tampa Bay will donate money from the party and the accompanying silent auction to Francis House, an organization committed to providing HIV-
by mike halterman
supportive services in a safe environment, allowing the recipients to become selfsufficient members of our community. This year's Masquerade Ball's theme is "Rio Masquerade", so feel free to dress vibrantly as entertainers from Event Show Productions will be decked out in colorful costumes, complete with high headdresses! DJ CK will be providing the music this evening, and there will also be a VIP hors d'oeuvres and drink reception. That reception will begin at 7 p.m. on Saturday, August 6 at District 3 Arts & Events (802-812 E. Whiting St., Tampa), with doors opening to the general public at 8:30 p.m. Advance general admission tickets are priced at $40 per
person and will be $50 at the door. To purchase in advance, visit tampamasquerade.com. I spoke with Balance Tampa Bay president Scott Kligmann about this year's Masquerade Ball and how it will build on last year's successful turnout in this interview for Hotspots Central.
will be able to donate $30,000 to Francis House. We raised $10,000 last year for ASAP.
Tell us about Francis House and why Balance Tampa Bay picked them as the beneficiary organization this year.
they're a smaller organization. we do one or two service events with
Are more businesses showing interest in partnering with Balance Tampa Bay for the Masquerade Ball this year?
We're at double the support we had last year. We have billboards up on the highway, from Out Front Media and from Clear Channel, and we have radio and TV spots on Bright House Networks. The upgraded advertising has brought in a lot more people who didn't know about us last year. This year we've added a host of new sponsors, such as Quench Lounge, the Tampa Bay Rays, TECO Energy, Smith and Associates, Ernst and Young, and more.
What kind of response have you received from the local community in the run-up to the event?
I'm overwhelmed by the generosity and the across-alllines support from the Tampa Bay community at large...truly, it shows that they are behind the LGBT cause. They're there for us when we need them and I can't thank them enough. We think we
A Hotspots Central Chat with Scott Kligmann
them every year, everything from painting buildings to helping them open their new bulding and sponsoring their food shelf, you name it, we've helped. we can't think of a better sponsor to help. we talked about it after last year's event and we know asap is very well funded, and we thought it would be a no brainer. we love joy, the executive director, she's a great person.
How did people like District 3 as the event's venue last year? Was it easy to have the Masquerade Ball there again this year?
Everyone thought it was a great venue. People liked the location and
We've gone from 200 to 400 members over the past two years. We've added a bimonthly activity event in addition to the monthly sevice and social event. Then we have our three main events every year: the Masquerade Ball, the Party for Presents at Southern Nights in December, and the Kickoff for Kids event that occurs each April. At that event, we raised $2300 for Feeding America's
District 3 was willing to work with us again this year. It wasn't broke, so we weren't going to fix it. [laughs] Last year we had 400 people attend, and this year we are expecting 500 to 600 people. The venue is so large that we will be able to accommodate the extra attendees easily.
Are there any new aspects to the Masquerade Ball that will be introduced this year?
While we are using the same entertainment company, this year there will be more interaction between the entertainers and the attendees and I think that will be very interesting to watch. Plus, there will be a bigger VIP party this year, with hors d'oeuvres and drinks provided. It will be a little dinner party, if you will. Also, there will be two surprises: we're introducing a silent auction with fabulous prizes, and we're also going to be giving away swag bags to everyone who attends. What will be in those bags? Stay tuned!
Why was "Rio" picked as this year's theme?
Well, with the Olympics coming up, we thought it would be a good theme, especially coupled with the idea of the Masquerade Ball. "Rio" will add color to the event, and we've gotten great feedback from it. Not only can people buy cool masks, they can put together some amazing outfits.
backpack program for the summer, when children may not have access to a healthy lunch. We also created an advisory committee that meets every month that discusses feedback, what we are doing well, and what we can do better. It serves as a springboard for people who eventually want to participate in the organization on the board level.
For more information on Balance Tampa Bay, visit balancetampabay.org.
Tell us about Balance Tampa Bay's recent growth. Hotspots Central Florida
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BALANCE
TAMPA
BAY
MASQUERADE Presented
BALL
By
TampaMasquerade.com
backstage
by mike halterman
Central Florida
&
Arts Entertainment
H
Hello, and welcome back to our arts and entertainment column, "Backstage." Last month, we saw quite a few people come to Orlando to perform benefit concerts, including Anderson Cooper, Andy Cohen, Frenchie Davis, Mýa, Chita Rivera and Andrea McArdle, among others. This month there will be a new set of concerts that I just can't wait to see! With that said, let me tell you about who's coming to Central Florida this coming month. Tue. Aug. 2: After a 38-year run, the pioneering female rock group The Go-Go's will be performing one last tour for their devoted fans. Join Belinda Carlisle, Jane Wiedlin, Charlotte Caffey and Gina Schock for a night that will be etched into your
Scene memory for a long time to come. They will perform their greatest
performed 4,500 shows in over 15 countries...and their next stop is the Mahaffey Theater in St. Petersburg. (8 p.m., starts at $29, themahaffey.com)
hits at the Capitol Theatre in Clearwater. (8 p.m., starts at $ 71 . 2 5 p e r p e r s o n ; rutheckerdhall.com) Fri. Aug. 5: Mix equal parts talent, athleticism, and craziness and you have the fourperson group Recycled Percussion. In the seven years since they shot to fame on NBC's America's Got Talent, they have
Sat. Aug. 6: Enjoy alternative rock group Blink-182's greatest hits tonight at the MIDFLORIDA Credit Union Amphitheatre at the Florida State Fairgrounds in Tampa. They will be performing with the groups A Day to
Remember, The AllAmerican Rejects, and All Time Low, with an opening set by DJ Spider. (7 p.m., starts at $25, livenation.com) Sun. Aug. 7: The kings of reggaeton, Daddy Yankee and Don Omar, will face off in a very unique concert. This special Latin music feast will have everyone wondering, "Who sang it best?" Find out who is the undisputed leader in the reggaeton genre tonight as The Kingdom Tour stops at the Amway Center in Orlando. (8 p.m., $19$159, ticketmaster.com)
Fri. Aug. 12: One of the hottest country music stars out there today, Brad Paisley, will bring his Life Amplified World Tour to the MIDFLORIDA Credit Union Amphitheatre in Tampa for one appearance only. Opening for him are up-and-coming country music acts Tyler Farr and Maddie & Tae. (7:30 p.m., $15-$54.75, livenation.com)
Fri. Aug. 12 - Sat. Aug. 13: You may know comedienne Sheryl Underwood from her
appearances on BET's Comic View, Showtime's Martin Lawrence's 1st Amendment Stand-Up, and of course her role as co-host of CBS's gabfest The Talk. She will bring her hilarious, no-holds-barred stand-up comedy to the Tampa Improv in Ybor City for two nights. (three shows, $30, improvtampa.com)
Fri. Aug. 19: Seal, the Grammy Award-winning English artist who brought us the love ballad "Kiss from a Rose", has returned to music after a thirteen-year hiatus with an allnew album of original material, called "7". He will perform songs from "7" and from his past albums tonight at Ruth Eckerd Hall in Clearwater. (8 p.m., $50$150, rutheckerdhall.com)
perform at the MIDFLORIDA Credit Union Amphitheatre in Tampa, the latest stop on their 7/27 Tour. Their opening act will be singer JoJo. (7 p.m., $22.95-$72.95, livenation.com) Sat. Aug. 27: Multi-platinum selling artist Drake has partnered with fellow rapper and performer Future for the Summer Sixteen Tour. This is a particularly strong year for Drake, who can boast three Top 20 singles from his new album, including the runaway #1 hit "Hotline Bling." Drake and Future will be performing at Tampa's Amalie Arena. (7 p.m., starts at $49.50, amaliearena.com) Mon. Aug. 29: Aerosmith frontman Steven Tyler is embarking on a special, 19-city tour featuring himself, his piano and his band, as he pulls back the curtain to reveal the influences that make him who he is as a person and as the musician we've come to love over the past four decades. Award-winning director Brett Ratner directs Tyler in "Out on a Limb" at Ruth Eckerd Hall in Clearwater. (8 p.m., starts at $83.70, call (727) 791-7400)
Thu. Aug. 25: Last year, girl group Fifth Harmony burned up the charts with their surprise hit "Work It", and now they're back again with "Work from Home". Join the girls (including Florida natives Camila Cabello and Lauren Jauregui) as they
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small business spotlight
Priority health RX
by mike halterman
Orlando
P
Priority Health Rx, a popular Orlando full-service pharmacy, believes customer service is very important. So much so, in fact, that going the extra mile is mandatory. "Word of mouth is the best marketing money can buy!" Mark D. Brown, CEO of Priority Health Rx, told us recently. "Customer service begins with a personal relationship and treating our patients as we would treat our family and friends," he added. That's good advice put into practice: even though Priority Health Rx is a busy pharmacy, its
customers are always treated like close friends. I spoke with Mark D. Brown about his knowledgeable staff and what sets his business apart from others in this interview for Hotspots Central.
Tell us a little bit about your pharmacy. How long has it been open?
Our pharmacy is located in the Thornton Park neighborhood near downtown Orlando. We've been in business for over three years.
Say someone comes to you with a medical condition, such as HIV, rheumatoid arthritis, or multiple sclerosis. How does your team figure out which medicines will be right for them?
After patient receives a prescription from his/her physician, we will check their complete profile to ensure there are no contraindications as to what has been prescribed. We then follow up with face to face visits or phone calls to determine any side effects the patient may be experiencing, and we consult with the patient about their other options and coordinate with the physician if necessary to change to a more appropriate medication.
Which kinds of insurance do you take?
We accept all major insurances as well as Medicare Part D plans. In addition to accepting insurance, Priority Health Rx takes pride in the extra effort we
existing pharmacy, or we can speak with the physician to attain a new script and begin service. We offer a $20 gift card if all maintenance medications are transferred to our pharmacy (excluding government-funded plans).
Tell us the ways people can have their prescriptions filled by your pharmacy.
Priority Health Rx offers custom delivery options that cater to the patient's needs. Our courier service to your doorstep, or in some cases, mail in discrete packaging or pick-up from our pharmacy, are all options we provide for our patients.
How is Priority Health Rx more efficient than other local pharmacies?
Mark D. Brown, CEO take for the uninsured or underinsured by searching for grants and assistance plans the patient may qualify for. For our PrEP patients we consult with the patient on exactly what requirements are necessary to gain approval for the program and our pharmacy staff will submit
and follow up on paperwork to get approval as soon as possible.
How can people transfer their prescriptions to you from their current hospital?
Upon request from the patient, our pharmacist can transfer prescriptions from the patient's
Priority Health Rx is a lowvolume, high-touch pharmacy. We spend more time than most retail pharmacies on prior authorization process to get medications approved, and we also spend staff time on searching for co-pay assistance plans to ensure the patient is getting the lowest possible out of pocket expense possible. Essentially our pharmacy offers a VIP level service at a lower cost than many retail pharmacies are able to provide. For more information on Priority H e a l t h R x , v i s i t priorityhealthrx.com. To call and speak to a pharmacist, dial (855) 652-2163.
Priority Health Rx 1215 E. Livingston St., Ste. A Orlando, FL 32803 Hotspots Central Florida
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hot shots photos by tony fowler
Honey Pot's Steam Fridays Ab Fab The Movie release party
by mike halterman
F
For the first time ever, the popular Shop for a Cause event at participating Macy's department stores will last an entire weekend! From Friday, August 26 to Sunday, August 28, Macy's department stores across Florida and around the country will be participating in the eleventh annual Shop for a Cause festivities, which allows shoppers to donate to their favorite non-profit organizations and charities, and in exchange, they can come to participating Macy's stores and shop at discounted prices all weekend.
Here's how Shop for a Cause works. Non-profit community service organizations that have applied to be a part of this event receive savings passes from Macy's, which they can sell to their members or supporters at the cost of $5. The non-profits get to keep 100% of the proceeds from the sale of these savings passes.
11th Annual Macy's Shop for a Cause August 26-28, 2016 Then, from August 26-28, people who have purchased these passes go to the specific Macy's location where the non-profit signed up. Shoppers show their passes when they check out, and they can receive 25% off an assortment of regular, sale and clearance merchandise, as well as 10% off electronics, watches, furniture, mattresses, rugs and floor coverings. With the pass, shoppers are automatically entered to win a $500 gift card, and no purchase is needed to win. One past Hotspotsrecommended local charity, the Orlando Magic Youth Foundation, has worked with LGBT non-profits in the past, such as the Zebra Coalition, and you can support that organization by buying your card from them and using it specifically at the Orlando Fashion Square Macy's location. For a full list of charities, visit
shopforacause.macysinc.com/Li stCharities.aspx. Macy's Shop for a Cause has raised nearly $47 million for charities nationwide since 2006. For more information on Macy's Shop for a Cause, visit shopforacause.macysinc.com. Contact your participating charity today to buy your discount card. Macy's locations will also be selling their own cards, benefiting the March of Dimes.
August 26-28
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Sun on your skin. Love in your heart. All families rule in Greater Fort Lauderdale.
@VisitLauderdale | #
Plan your family getaway at sunny.org/kids
food for thought
by mke halterman
Koizi Endless Hibachi and Sushi Eatery
New Tampa
F
Brandon
For those of you who are looking for an affordable new option in the Central Florida culinary scene, I present to you Koizi, billed as an “endless hibachi and sushi eatery,” which has quickly become one of my favorite restaurants. Koizi’s owners and managers are committed to serving delicious pan-Asian cuisine, such as fresh sushi and sashimi, along with cooked-to-order hibachi dishes, all for a price that’s quite reasonable. General manager Cheree Zhang has helped to perfect Koizi’s all-you-can-eat, madeto-order model at not one, not two, but three different locations across the Tampa Bay area. The first location opened in 2012 in New Tampa, with a second location in Brandon opening its doors in 2014. This
New Port Richey
past year, a location in New Port Richey started serving up plates for diners across the Bay and it has become a success as well. Recently I brought my friend, visiting from Arkansas, to the restaurant in Brandon, located at 11245 Causeway Boulevard. When you walk into the unassuming Koizi (flanked on one side by a Publix and on the other sides by stores like Lane Bryant and Nordstrom Rack), you are immediately greeted by authentic Asian decor and a staff who will do anything to make your experience as comfortable as possible. As we were seated in the main dining room, our waiter, Sky, tells my friend about Koizi’s rules: if ordering the all-you-can-eat option ($9.95 at lunch, $17.95 for dinner), you can eat as much as
you want but don’t order more than you can finish, or else you will receive a surcharge. (A la carte options are available as well, those prices are quoted below.) We were assured that if we order a roll of sushi that is new to us, we can return it without penalty if we did not care for it. We found that we liked everything we ordered. First, my friend ordered a soup of shrimp with lobster sauce ($10.95), as well as an appetizer portion of their coconut shrimp ($10.95). I ordered gyoza (two pieces for $1.95) and a shrimp hibachi (offered with rice or noodles, but I customized my order to have the shrimp only) to start ($7.95 for lunch, $13.95 for dinner). The food came out promptly, within five minutes, and my friend immediately raved about the taste
of the shrimp in the various sauces. He particularly liked the creaminess of the coconut sauce, and he liked the concept of the lobster sauce soup, which reminded him of egg drop soup, with an added bonus of large shrimp. Speaking of large shrimp, my hibachi order arrived, and I was pleased with how fresh the seafood tasted and how large the portion was. The gyoza was also seasoned very well and piping hot. We were also informed of the other hibachi options: New York strip
most popular selections. I was told hundreds of these rolls are made for customers every day. It also features tempura shrimp with cream cheese, but with spicy imitation crab salad on top, and served with spicy mayonnaise. My friend picked two simple rolls: a salmon roll ($3) and a spicy tuna roll ($3.50), followed up with a Christmas roll ($9.95), which is made of spicy tuna, cream cheese and cucumber, wrapped in green soy paper and topped with crab salad.
steak, chicken breast, tofu, and even squid! Vegetarian hibachi options are also on the menu. Then it came time to order what we’d been hotly anticipating: the various sushi rolls. There are over two dozen custom rolls on the Koizi dinner menu (a smaller version is available for lunch), and we wasted no time telling Sky that we wanted an assortment. I chose the Koizi roll ($8.95), which consists of tempura shrimp, spicy tuna, seaweed salad, and cream cheese, drizzled in eel sauce. I also ordered the Dancing Krab Roll ($8.95), which is one of Koizi’s
First, my thoughts about the sushi rolls. I loved the Koizi roll...the spicy tuna and shrimp together made for a savory combination, and the texture of the rice made it feel like a mini-sandwich, which I loved. The Dancing Krab Roll was delightfully crunchy, and the addition of the imitation crab salad on top was genius, as it was very flavorful. The Christmas roll was colorful, my friend noted, and the tastes came together beautifully, with the cream cheese as the uniting agent between the tuna and the cucumber. The simpler rolls were put together nicely and
were so good that they were consumed in about...thirty seconds each. Afterwards, we were tempted with dessert options, which include Chinese-style fried dough with sugar ($1.95) and various ice cream flavors made on-site daily, but we were too stuffed. We made a note to come back another time to try those delicious desserts, because to truly appreciate Koizi is to become a repeat customer (which I’m proud to say I’ve become).
Koizi Endless Hibachi and Sushi Eatery 3 locations in Tampa Bay:
17012 Palm Pointe Drive New Tampa, 813-971-1919 11245 Causeway Boulevard Brandon, 813-653-2999 4120 Little Road New Port Richey 727-376-1888 Lunch served from 11:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Dinner served from 3:30 p.m. to 10 p.m. www.facebook.com/koiziendlesshibachisushi
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listen to this!
by jimmy by newsum jb burgos
Beat Box
2016
Y
You know that summer is in full force when all the biggest artists are releasing their hottest jams. So which will go down as 2016’s Song of the Summer? Of course we know the mainstream contenders. Justin Timberlake’s “Can’t Stop the Feeling”, Drake’s “One Dance” featuring Kyla and Wizkid, Meghan Trainor’s “Me Too”, Rihanna’s “This Is What You Came For” and Ariana Grande’s “Into You” are all ruling the airwaves. But what about the dance floor? Here are some of the top albums vying for 2016’s club song of the summer.
“Out There”
Kristine W (Fly Again) Billboard Magazine’s Dance Artist of the Decade returns with the first single from her soon-to-be released album. At its core, the track is a lush, the-
EDM, ensuring the track will continue playing across every imaginable dance floor this summer.
“All About Tonight”
atrical ballad that provides the perfect platform for Kristine’s powerful vocals. Its message is to appreciate life as a journey and to never give up as what you desire may be closer than you think. A global team of producers including Moto Blanco, DJ Kespa, Loop Soop, Frank Lords, and Giuseppe D. all flavor the track with their personal styles of house beats and
FourEver 1 (Friendship Collective) The latest discovery from American Idol music master Randy Jackson is the fierce, foxy foursome of identical quadruplet sisters known as FourEver1. These girls are
proving that they are primed for the big time with their debut single, “All About Tonight”. This turn-down-the-lights and turn-up-the-heat club bumper is about where the mind goes and the body flows when Friday night arrives. Remixes are by powerhouse DJs Bimbo Jones, Giuseppe D., and Jose Nunez, guaranteeing these girls and their blazin’ Bahamian spice beats will be dominating dance floors all summer.
“Pride 2016”
Multiple Artists (Swishcraft Music)
For a New Love” and a young Janet Jackson was preparing to take “Control”. Her groovilicious anthem about being into someone and owning the attraction with every fiber of your being is funky with a capital ‘f’. Music reviewers have been comparing Vice’s retro sound to Daft Punk and Chromeo but this girl’s tongue-in-cheek lyrical style and musical prowess are distinctly her own.
noon tea dances. The remixes by London’s Rich B (Tech House/Nu¬Disco), Australia’s Division 4 (Deep House), Germany’s Sven Kirchhof (Trance/ Big room), America’s Dirty Pop (Progressive EDM), Argentina’s Cristian Poow (Deep House), and America’s Tweaka Turner all take the track into different hours of the night making this the perfect song to raise the energy with any time of the day.
“Touch The Sky”
Division 4 (Swishcraft Music) Australia’s Robert Ladic AKA Division 4 returns with his follow up to last winter’s club floor groover, “Shake It”. This latest is a decidedly smoother, indie
“My Heart Beats Faster”
This year’s ultimate pride album features 18 of the summer’s biggest smashes including Inaya Day’s “One Night In Heaven”, Abigail’s “February (Our Last Kiss)” and Emoni Washington’s “My Heart Beats Faster”. In addition to the hits, there are a handful of treats that have never been made available to the public before. The album also features the Toy Armada & DJ GRIND 2016 pride mix of Tony Moran’s “The Promise”, a spectacular reimagining of the classic gem.
Emoni Washington (Swishcraft Music) This vocal deep house track featuring up¬and¬coming songstress Emoni Washington has been getting a lot of attention in gay clubs this summer. The original, co-produced by Matt Consola and Leo Frappi-
“All of the Time”
Megan Vice (Peace Bisquit) Eighties-freestyle lovers rejoice! Megan Vice is taking clubbers back to 1987 when Jodi Whatley was “Looking
er, has a lively, pulsating beat that will get hearts racing on the treadmill and at after-
house track complete with infectious hooks, heart pounding baselines, rhythmic permissions and retro throwback keyboards. The remix package includes mighty interpretations of the song including one from Barry Harris of Thunderpuss who carries the original into peak hour territory with progressive keyboard stabs, rolling pop tribal beats and pulsating baselines. Newcomer Raw Voltage takes the track in a darker deep house meets tech house direction with sultry vocals, swirling keyboards, warm baselines, and an infectious handclap driven classic house beat.
hot shots photos by mike halterman
CitySide Pulse Benefit
genre latino hit list
con scrappy pérez
¿Afeitarse o no Afeitarse? Esa es la Pregunta…
M
Mis amigos me invitaron a una fiesta súper lujosa y me pidieron que me arreglara bien. Me imagino que no debería haber salido con ellos aquella vez con sombrero de payaso, pantalones rosados pegados y botas de vaquero. Ok, nunca me he puesto nada de eso y es por esto que me sorprendió mucho el que me hayan pedido eso. ¿Cuántas veces a ustedes los han invitado a cualquier sitio y se les recuerda que tenían que verse bien? En ese momento me di cuenta de que tal vez tenía un problema. Eso y el hecho de que siempre me están regalando dinero por la calle cada vez que me ven con mi moda de vagabundo. ¡Te juro que quiero verme bien! ¡De verdad que sí trato! Por eso me bañé y todo. ¡¿Qué más quieren de mí?! ¡Déjenme tranquilo! (sale corriéndo en llanto) Ok, ya regresé… Yo sé que no
es suficiente el solo bañarse. Es que no puedo recordarme de tantas cosas que los hombres tenemos hoy día para verse bien.
Chongo…
Trata de imaginarte una cebolla pegada a la cabeza tuya y ahí tienes a lo que se le llama un chongo. ¿Qué cosa en el mundo convenció a estos hombres de que esto era una buena idea para proyectar más masculinidad? No saben cuántas veces me he topado con estos hombres de espaldas y les he
dicho “disculpe, señorita”. Es un look que solo se los he visto a las bibliotecarias.
Barbas… No estoy hablando de candados o bigotes o el no afeitarse por un mes. Es el look que tienen los deambulantes o Santa Claus. Si no quieres que los niños te persigan pidiéndote jugetes, aféitate. Afeitarse el Cuerpo… Ok, este no es tan innecesario. No quisieras que elguien te bese de piez a cabeza sintiéndo que se está pasando el hilo dental a
la misma vez. Lo malo es el procurar no cortarte hasta desangrarte y las posiciones en las que me encuentro cuando hago esto ponen a cualquier contorcionista celoso. Quizás podría depilarme con cera, pero si hago eso, mejor meter mi salchichita en un hoyo de hormigas bravas ya que esto sería menos doloroso.
Cuidado de la Piel… Este es importante, pero el acordarse cual crema va en cual parte del cuerpo es un desastre. Hay cremas para la cara, para las rodillas, para el cuello, anti-arrugas… Un segundito… (toma un vaso de agua) … para los ojos, para las piernas, para los codos, para las áreas privadas, etc. Accidentalmente me puse la crema de los ojos en la barriga y ¡ahora puedo parpadear el ombligo!
Tratamientos de Spa… De hecho estoy contento de que esto se ha hecho más famoso. ¿A quién no le gustaría una manicura, pedicura o un masajito de vez en cuando? Esta es otra de las cosas que nos han robado los hombres heterosexuales para convertirse en metro-sexuales y así las mujeres tienen mejor cosas que admirar. ¡De nada, señoras! Hasta les hemos brindado un nuevo juego en el que de-
ben adivinar si el hombre que están mirando es heterosexual, homosexual, metro-sexual o Europeo. No importa que estilo te guste más. Lo importante es que tenemos variedades para escoger y podemos tratar a nuestros cuerpos con el respeto que se merecen para que nos duren muchísimo más tiempo. Ahora, si me disculpan, me voy porque tengo que aplicarme la mascarilla de caquita de gato y aceite. Ya puedo ver el ejército de hombres corriendo hacia mí para besuquearme todo. Espero que no traigan con ellos la manguera de bombero como me hicieron la otra vez. ¡Qué pasen un feliz mes de Agosto! n
To Shave or Not to Shave? That is the Question My friends invited me to a very fancy party and asked me to groom myself well. I guess I s h o u l d n ’t have worn those overalls, propeller hat and cowboy boots last time we hung out. Ok, so I didn’t actually wear that. That’s why it surprised me when they said that! How many times have you been invited anywhere and had people remind you that you need to look good?! That’s when I knew I had a problem. That and the fact people are always handing me dollar bills when I walk down the street. My “homeless-chic” look should’ve given me a hint, I guess. I don’t care! I’m comfortable. Then again, my
comfortable butt may stay single for a while if I don’t change a few things. I´d rather be more Bert and Ernie, not Oscar the grouch! I do want to look better. I really do! I mean, I showered today! Leave me alone! (runs away crying). Okay, I’m back… I know it’s not enough to just shower. I just can’t get into these modern trends when it comes to male grooming. Let’s revisit some of those, shall we?
The Man Bun… Try to picture an onion stuck to the back of your head and you got the infamous man bun. What in the world would make someone believe this is a good idea to reinforce your masculinity and appetite for appearing virile?! I cannot even count the times I have approached several of these men from behind and said “Excuse me, ma’am” without feeling embarrassed afterwards. I don’t want to see that on a man ever. I mean, that’s more of a female librarian thing anyway! Full Beards… I’m not talking about Goat T’s or that 70’s porn star mustache or 5 o’clock shadows or not shaving your beard for a month. I’m talking about that “lumberjack Paul Bunyan-looking guy sitting at the soup kitchen on his way to the unemployment office” type of look. I have asked people if they are doing that No Shave November challenge to raise money for cancer in other months of the year. But no, they’re just being gross. Well, perhaps “gross” is too harsh. After all, this is the type of look I search for when wanting to sit on someone’s lap before Christmas Hotspots Central Florida
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Who wouldn’t want a facial, pedicure, manicure or massage every now and then?
day. Keep it groomed, conditioned, trimmed even so your lips and jaw line can be distinguished. This way you shall avoid children asking you for toys or the local bluegrass group asking you to join the band.
(takes a sip of water) … one for the eyes, one for the legs, one for the elbows and one for the “no no regions”. I accidentally covered my torso with the eye cream and now my belly button is able to blink!
Manscaping… Ok, this one is not that unnecessary. I wouldn’t want a guy I’m with to feel like he’s pleasuring me while getting his teeth flossed at the same time. The only problem is the shaving all over your body trying very hard not to bleed to death. The positions I get into with that razorblade and small mirror would make any contortionist jealous! I guess I could also get a body wax, but by that same logic, I could also cover my junk with honey and stick it inside an anthill filled with fire ants. That would actually be less painful!
Spa Treatments… I am actually glad this is catching on. Who wouldn’t want a facial, pedicure, manicure or massage every now and then? This is just one more thing the straight metro-sexual guys took from us “fabulous” men along with dancing well and looking gorgeous. Now heterosexual women have more men to drool over. You’re welcome, ladies! We even made it into a fun game where the girls have to guess if the guys they’re looking at are gay, metro-sexual or European.
Skin Care… This one is actually important. It’s just a hassle trying to remember which lotion goes where. There’s one for the face, one for the knees, anti-aging creams, one for the neck… Excuse me for a second…
Anti-Grooming... Yup, this is a trend and I’m not even kidding you about this! Think messy, unwashed hair and bushy, un-plucked eyebrows with a healthy, natural glow. This look is the lazy person’s approach to grooming and, obviously, requires very little effort. I guess the most chal-
lenging aspect of this look is being able to get out of bed in the morning. Regardless of all the trends we have now, whether you like them or not, it’s good to
have options and it’s good to treat our bodies with the respect they deserve so they are good to us and last us for a long time. Now, if you all excuse me, I have to go apply my cat poop and blue cheese dressing face mask. I can already see masses of men running towards me to kiss me. I hope they don’t bring that fire hose again like last time. Have a great August!
by: billy masters
I
“I think that it is a project that is misconceived and (sadly for the players) badly cast. The producer and director seem to have missed the point entirely.” - Richard O’Brien, writer of “The Rocky Horror (Picture) Show” (and the original Riff Raff), gives his opinion on the FOX remake starring Laverne Cox as a “Sweet Transvestite”. While I was frolicking at the Filth2Go Beach House in Provincetown on Independence Day, a gay man was being arrested at the beach in Queens, New York. Apparently Jacob Riis Park is a popular place for gays who can’t make it to Ptown or Fire Island. According to reports, Krys Fox was wearing only a towel while taking photos of a friend (allegedly, his bathing suit was drying in the sun). At one point, his towel acciden-
tally dropped. Fox says, “I just didn’t wrap my towel around my waist tight enough and it suddenly slipped down and I literally got sent to jail for it.”
However Sgt. David Somma of the US Park Police says that Fox was “standing there ful-
ly nude taking pictures of his friend - officers observed him for a minute or two standing there. They walked over to him, asked him to put his towel back around his waist or get dressed, and he refused. They asked him again. They asked if he would walk with officers to another group of gentlemen getting tickets for urinating in public. He refused.” The police were going to issue him a ticket, but Fox failed to produce any ID (he lost it at NYC Pride). Somma continues, “He refused to sit down on the beach and put a towel on him-
self. The most he would have received was a summons for public nudity, but he refused to cooperate, became combative, making a nuisance of himself, drawing attention to himself. So he was arrested and charged with disorderly conduct.” But Fox wasn’t just arrested - he was physically carried off the beach by a phalanx of no fewer than 11 policemen. Once they got to the edge of the beach, they laid him on the sand, cuffed him, hoisted him up, and put him in the back of the squad car while Fox cried, “Help me!” Although I’m sure laws were broken, did it really require 11 cops? It seems, dare I say, like overkill. Judge for yourself on BillyMasters.com. Many of my older readers never thought they’d see a drag
queen with a TV show - with the exception of Milton Berle and Benny Hill. A more recent generation thought they’d seen it all when RuPaul got a show - in fact, most of the Logo network centers around RuPaul. How do you top that? By making history with an Emmy nomination as Outstanding Host for a Reality or Reality Competition P r o gram. Not only did Ru get a nomination - she was nominated alongside Jane Lynch (“Hollywood Game Night”), Tom Bergeron (“Dancing with the Stars”), Ryan Seacrest (“American Idol”), Steve Harvey (“Little Big Shots”), and Tim Gunn and Heidi Klum (“Project Runway”) - officially making it the gayest category in Emmy history. RuPaul, who once notably said “I’d rather have an enema than have an Emmy”, is likely a long shot. But it’s an honor just to be nominated. “I dedicate this Emmy nomination to outsiders everywhere. Brave souls who stick to their dreams and make the world a more colorful place.” I think she just said the Emmy should go to Tim Gunn! While promoting “The Legend of Tarzan”, Alexander Skarsgard compared kissing his “True Blood” co-star Ryan Kwanten with his “Tarzan” love interest, Margot Robbie, and with Nicole
Kidman, whom he appears with in the upcoming miniseries “Big Little Lies”. Out of the three, I’ve got to say Ryan Kwanten is surprisingly a good kisser actually. He’s very tender. You wouldn’t think it because he’s kind of a tough guy but very
soft, gentle, tender touch.” You can see that sizzling scene on my website too. Christopher Meloni certainly doesn’t mind attention from the gays. One fan recently Tweeted, “@Chris_Meloni: I finished the Oz series two days and I’m depressed about it (especially with the end of your character). How to handle?” Meloni accommodatingly responded thusly: “Take a shower and pretend I’ll be joining u” To help get you in the mood, we’ll show you every inch of him in the shower on our website. When RuPaul’s dreaming of an enema, it’s definitely time to end yet another column. You can get an expanded version of this column - with photos at www.BillyMasters.com - the site that always goes deep. Although we didn’t have room for an “Ask Billy” question, you can always send your queries to me at Billy@BillyMasters.com, and I promise to get back to you before Meloni passes me the soap! So, until next time, remember, one man’s filth is another man’s bible.
by mike halterman
Five Questions
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Patty Sheehan was elected to the Orlando City Council in 2000, becoming the first out gay elected official in Central Florida history. Over the past 16 years, she has championed such causes as LGBT non-discrimination, neighborhood safety in downtown Orlando, and the preservation of many historic buildings and neighborhoods in The City Beautiful. Hotspots Central asked Commissioner Sheehan five questions...
How did you feel to see the community come together so swiftly in the wake of the Pulse tragedy?
I was delighted to see the community come together. I knew the LGBTQ community would, what was so profound was the way the Hispanic community, the Muslim community, even the faith community that opposed LGBTQ equality came together. And I really lost it when Mayor [Teresa] Jacobs gave her speech at the vigil basically apologizing for not coming forward faster. I
with Patty Sheehan
welcome them all now. When people come forward to ask forgiveness, you grant it.
Many people see you as sort of the “den mother� of the Orlando LGBT community. Would you agree?
I think it is hilarious that I am called the den mother. Does that mean you are my boy scouts? I would say that I do kind of consider the younger LGBTQ generation like my kids, so I guess I am more of a fairy dragmother.
You are very involved in a number of charities and organizations. Tell us about those.
I really like working with youth. The Wheels for Kids program has purchased over 1,000 bicycles for needy children. And I just adore the youth at the Zebra House. It is a center for LGBTQ youth. I painted a mural with the Zebra kids honoring the victims of the Pulse tragedy. It really helped me heal my heart.
Come Out with Pride has become one of the largest LGBT pride events in Florida. How have you seen it evolve?
I worked with the original organization, Orlando Regional Pride. I have seen it grow from a visibility event with a few brave (and crazy) people being out, although there were some people back then who covered their faces. Now it is one of the largest downtown events that we have [here]. Straight families bring their children. So I have seen this small march turn into this amazing public event of celebration.
Why do you like living in Central Florida over anywhere else?
Central Florida, anywhere in Florida, is a challenge for an activist in the LGBTQ community. It is not like San Francisco, or other meccas. It is hard work to get things passed here. I have spent most of my life doing so. But I love a challenge, and I love the weather. So I am not going anywhere.
Hotspots Central Florida HotSpotsCentral.LGBT
need wood
by woody miller
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I use all the dating apps I can to harvest a few dates, but I’m not having much luck. Is there some kind of code that I can’t seem to crack? Why am I only attracting freaks, flakes and femmes? I’m wondering if you would take a look at my profile and tell me how I could improve it. -- Desperate for better hits Dear Desperate: I looked at your profile. You couldn’t attract men if you wore magnets. You’re doing so many things wrong I hardly know where to start. So rather than pick your profile apart (the Rapture would come before I finished) let me just give you some of the rules for meeting higher quality guys.
1. Show your face.
Profiles with face shots get waaaayyy more hits than those that don’t. Here’s what most people would think if they saw a headless pic of your body: a) It must be hard for you to chew food without a mouth b) You’re a closet case who’s going to make them sign a confidentiality agreement before they go home with you c) You’ve probably got a face that’d knock a buzzard off a gut wagon d) You’re somebody’s boyfriend and you don’t want him or his friends seeing you online. Would you expect guys to approach you in a bar if they couldn’t see your face? Then
why would you expect guys online to do it? Put your face pics in your profile and I promise your hit rate will go up.
2. Smile.
It’s the second best thing you can do with your lips. It’s also a shortcut to the bedroom. Think about it—would you ever approach somebody in a bar if they had a sneer that would scare Satan’s jackals? Of course not.
3. Be Specific In Your Profile.
If you want masculine guys, for example, say something like this: “If the only textile you can name is ‘denim’ we’re going to get along. If you can’t tell the difference between ecru, cream, off-white, and eggshell we’re going to date. And if you don’t have a problem taking a dump in public restrooms because you think the world is your toilet, we’re going to get married.” Remember, details attract. Generalizations detract.
4. Write An Attention-Getting Headline.
Which one of these four profile headers would attract your attention?
A. “Hello” B. “You May be the One I’m Looking for” C. “Looking to Meet New People” D. “Willing to Lie About How We Met!” Obviously, the last one. The more unique (and humorous) you can be, the more attention you’re going to get.
5. Get A Credible Username
You are not going to attract a quality guy with a username like BlondBottom4U. No, really. You’re not. So stop it. Use one that describes some aspect of you, like Skier2010 or Sciencegeek.
6. Connect When You Reach Out.
Don’t just say “hey,” or “what’s up.” Or worse, “Looking for some hole to plow?” Leave the trash talk for the bedroom. Respond to something in their profile so they know you invested some time in contacting them (as opposed to sending a mass email to everyone with a pulse). For example, if his profile says he’s into rock bands then email him with a question like, “Did you see Phoenix when they were in town last month?”
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