from the publisher
Central Florida Edition December 2018
Publisher/Marketing Director Peter Clark Peter@HotspotsMedia.com
Associate Publisher Scott Holland Scott@HotspotsMedia.com
Accounting Brian Burda Brian@HotspotsMedia.com
Art Director Maria Espinal Maria@HotspotsMedia.com
Graphics Graphics@HotspotsMedia.com
Frank Mendez
Sales Team 813-253-9107
Harry Demasiado Harry@HotspotsMedia.com
Brett Yancey Brett@HotspotsMedia.com
National Advertising Rivendell Media 212-242-6863 sales@rivendellmedia.com
Feature Writers Scott Holland | Chris Azzopardi Brett Yancey | Tom Bonanti D’anne Witkowski
Photographers Tony Fowler | Snap Out Loud! Amy DeMillo | Pat O’Rourke Hannah Jordan
Logistics Harry Demasiado
CONTACT US Central Florida Office: 813-253-9107
HotspotsCentral.LGBT Info@HotspotsMedia.com HotspotsMediaGroup.com Facebook.com/HotspotsCentralFlorida
South Florida Office:954-928-1862 5090 N.E. 12th Avenue Oakland Park, FL 33334 Fax 954-772-0142 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 Central is the 20th 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 andallliability,lossandexpenseofanynaturethatarisefromanyerrorthatmaybemadeinsaidad. Allrightsreserved. Reproductioninpartorinwholeofthispublicationwithoutwrittenpermission isstrictlyprohibited. Hotspotsisaregisteredtrademark.
on the inside
Central Florida Edition December 2018
2018 Holiday Gift Guide “With the Holidays just around the corner, I thought I would give you some suggestions on items for your loved ones that I love.”
content: • What’s Hot Central Florida • Hot Bodies • Hot Advice
this month’s features: • 2018 Holiday Gift Guide • John Waters • Hello Dolly! • Cirque Du Soleil • Erika Jane
hot shots • Pride-Zoo-La • Salty’s Gulfport • Around Town with Amy Demilo
What’s HOT ...everything you need to plan your month
what’s hot By Harry Demasiado
everything you need to know
to plan your month
W
Welcome to the What's Hot Column, where we feature countless events in the Greater Orlando, Tampa, and St. Petersburg Areas. Also your connection to activities and events by local LGBT+ Organizations. Continue reading on to learn What's Hot this Holiday Season! From our family to yours, we wish you a Safe and Happy Holiday Season! Saturday, December 1 The bars of Wall Street Plaza Downtown Orlando presents the 2nd Annual Ugly Sweater Bar Crawl and they want the city of Orlando to join in on the fun. Get that Goodwill sweater, find those tacky holiday pants, and get ready to jingle bell ROCK! 4pm to midnight at Wall Street Plaza Downtown Orlando. To register go to orlandouglysweatercrawl.eve ntbrite.org.
The Dr. Phillips center presents “Songs of The Season” a free holiday concert featuring the students from Full Sail University and Rollins College. The show, which is free starts at 7pm. For more information, visit drphillipscenter.org. The Central Florida HIV Planning Council invites you to join them as they commemorate the 30th Anniversary of World AIDS Day through an evening of reflection, food, and local live entertainment as they remember the advancements made in the HIV movement for the past 30 years. The
event is at Lake Estelle Park in Orlando and starts at 6pm. Sunday, December 2 Enigma Bar & Lounge St. Petersburg presents a Toys for Tots Benefit hosted by Kori Stevens. Be sure to bring toys for kids, from toddlers to teens. All entertainers will be donating their tips as well, so be sure to bring cash to help the children of some of the less fortunate families right here in the Tampa Bay area. Doors Open at 8pm, and don't forget your unwrapped toy! (This Two-Part Fundraiser continues on Sunday, December 9 at Bradley's on 7th in Ybor City) Tuesday, December 4 The Straz Center for the Performing Arts presents “Hello Dolly,” the winner of four Tony Awards including Best Musical Revival. Broadway's most beloved
musical is back where it belongs! Directed by Tony winner Jerry Zaks and featuring choreography by Tony winner Warren Carlyle. The show runs from today until the 9th. For additional information and tickets strazcenter.org. The Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall in association with Wilde Lexus Sarasota & ABC 7 WWSB present “The King and I,” one of Rodgers & Hammerstein's finest works. The King and I boasts a score that features such beloved classics as “Getting To Know You,” “I Whistle a Happy Tune,” “Hello Young Lovers,” “Shall We Dance” and “Something Wonderful.” Set in 1860's Bangkok, the musical tells the story of the unconventional and tempestuous relationship that develops between the King of Siam and Anna Leonowens, a British schoolteacher whom the modernist King, in an imperialistic world, brings to Siam to teach his many wives and children. The performance runs December 4 -5. For additional information and tickets, go to Vanwezel.org Wednesday, December 5 The Omni Orlando Resort at ChampionsGate (my associate publisher rants and raves about their Mokara spa all the time) will host Deck the Runway – A holiday-themed fashion show from 7-11pm, showcasing emerging designers with celebrity host Tiffany Pollard (I Love New York) and runway appearances from India Gants (America's Next Top Model Cycle 23 Winner). For additional information and
tickets go to: Fancybyfrancescawatson.com Stonewall Bar Orlando & YAASSS is celebrating the princess of pop's birthday (Britney) by throwing her a huge birthday party. Get in the zone with one of the best discographies in pop history while sipping on their Britney specialty drinks (Poison Paradise, 2007, The Blackout) all night. They will be having a Britney costume contest, so come ready to make them ooh in your most iconic look. This is a 21+ event with a $10 Cover (but only $5 Cover if you are in Britney Costume). For additional Information go to: stonewallorlando.com Friday, December 7 The Tarpon Springs Boat Parade Starts at approximately 8pm, where the vessels will proceed down the Anclote River and into the bayous where Santa will give out treats. Your best bet for viewing these holiday decorated vessels is from Craig Park/Spring Bayou. The event is free.
The Orlando Ballet presents the cherished holiday tradition, The Nutcracker at the Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts. Let your imagination fly as you join Clara on a spectacular journey through waltzing snowflakes, mischievous mice and dancing confectionary with the iconic Sugar Plum Fairy! With Tchaikovsky's beautiful score filling Walt Disney Theater, and a magical glittering Christmas tree on stage, this beloved production is a seasonal delight, not to be missed! The show runs December from today through the16. For additional information and tickets got to: Drphillipscenter.org. Amalie Arena presents Barry Manilow in “A Very
Barry Christmas.” Fans will be in for a treat when they hear Manilow perform his greatest hits like “Copacabana” and “Mandy” as well as Christmas favorites. Manilow has sold over 85 million albums and has 50 Top 40 hits. Do not miss the chance to hear the legend in person! The show begins at 7:30pm, and for
additional information and tickets go to: Amaliearena.com NeiBEARhood Takeover & Southern Nights Tampa present “SlingMas” starring International P*rn Stars Stephan Raw & Manuel Scalco, and featuring the sounds of DJ Burgos. This event is sponsored by Gobearr Gear, and their will be a midnight Photo Opportunities with Sexy Santas in their Sling, and a 1am Santa Strip Off. A Fundraiser will also be taking place for the Tampa Bay Wolf Pack Softball Team! The event is 21+ and is free before 10pm
Jello" and many more! This is an 18+ event and admission is $10. DJ Brianna spins til 3 am, and the Footlight Players perform at 10pm & 12am. Emmy and Golden Globewinning comedian extraordinaire Jane Lynch (Hollywood Game Night, Glee) delivers a big, shiny sack of Christmas cheer in this delightfully kitschy,
Saturday, December 8 Join the City of St Petersburg Beach for their annual Christmas Market & Parade. The Parade starts at St. Pete Beach City Hall (155 Corey Ave) and heads west down Corey Ave, south on Blind Pass Rd, east on 73rd to Bay St and back to City Hall. Santa will finish the parade route at the St. Pete Beach Library (365 73rd Ave) to meet with all the Whos in Whoville. While at the library, enjoy Grinch themed crafts, a movie, face painting, and light refreshments. This free event begins at 11am. The Parliament House presents, the incredibly hysterical Lardi B performing her smash hit parodies "They Like That I'm Fat," "Bodak
retro-amazing concert of swing- and big band-style renditions of holiday classics entitled A Swingin' Little Christmas. She stars with her See Jane Sing concert tour compatriots, Kate Flannery (The Office); Tim Davis, and Southern California jazz staples The Tony Guerrero Quintet. The show runs today and tomorrow at The Straz Center & December 14-16 at The Doctor Phillips Center. For additional information and tickets go to: Janelynchofficial.com Sunday, December 9 Chabad of Greater Orlando presents Chanukah on the Park. The event, which is free and takes place at 4:30pm, will include singing performances, live music, dancers, face painting, jugglers, food and grand menorah lighting. For more info go to: Cityofwinterpark.org Honey Pot Tampa and Femmes & Follies present The Annual “Rhinestones &
Rescues,” a burlesque benefit for Suncoast Animal League. 100% of proceeds donated to save puppies and kitties! This is Tampa's Uber-glam cabaret production charity event that features burlesque performers, cabaret acts, aerialists, fire performers, singers, dancers and much more. Many raffles and sponsored craft cocktails! Doors open at 7pm. For tickets and additional information visit Femmesandfollies.com. Monday, December 10 Miss Gay Orlando returns for another year at The Parliament House! Jazell Barbie Royale hands her crown to the next symbol of excellence for The City Beautiful. Open to all female impersonator entertainers! Contestant entry fee $125, and registration begins at 2 pm. Categories: Talent, Gown, Onstage Q&A and Presentation "Tis The
Season." Pageant begins at 9 pm. And there are no advanced reservations. Arrive early for best tables/seating. Admission is $12. The Plaza Live presents Erika Jayne: The Pretty Mess Tour. Erika will be performing her #1 Hits, “Xxxpen$ive,” “Cars,” “Pretty Mess” and many more. Doors open at 8pm. For tickets go to ErikaJayne.com.
Wednesday, December 12 Southern Nights Orlando presents their 5th Annual Turnabout, and they invite you to watch as your favorite staff members dress & perform in Drag to benefit Two Spirit Health Services, Inc. Doors open at 7pm with show time at 8pm hosted by Roxxxy Andrews & Sassy Devine. Cover is a $5 Suggested Donation (18+ Welcomed). Friday, December 14 Sweaterfest XII, one of Orlando's favorite musical holiday adventures is back for its 12-year anniversary at Stonewall, and they will be raising money for Orlando's Zebra Coalition. Doors open at 7pm, and the cover is $5 before 8pm. Santa will also be on hand to get your picture with him! Saturday, December 15 Hallmark Channel and the Amway Center presents the Trans-Siberian Orchestra featuring their Epic Rock interpretations of holiday favorites. Two Performances 3 & 8pm. For additional information and tickets go to: Amwaycenter.com. The Parliament House presents Crossdresser for Christ-mas starring Ginger Minj. Spend the holidays with our hometown gal, as she has made us so proud on RuPaul's Drag Race and All-Stars! This cabaret is sure to get you in the holiday spirit. General admission is $20, and VIP is $40, which includes a Meet & Greet and upfront seating in the first two rows. For more information or to purchase
tickets go to: Parliamenthouse.com 93.3 FLZ, Tampa Bay's #1 Hit Music Station in association with Capital present Jingle Ball 2018 starring Shawn Mendes, Marshmello, Khalid, NF, Bebe Rexha, Bazzi and Sabrina Carpenter hosted by on-air hosts, Kane and Buster. The show begins at 7pm. For additional information and tickets go to: Amaliearena.com Cristoph's Tampa presents Bear Soup's Annual Toys-forTots charity event hosted by Alexis De La Mer. The night
will feature a drag Show at 12:30 am, DJ Sklarz, and sexy Go-Go dancers all night. Any guests who bring a toy for a child will get a free drink. This is a 21 and over event with no cover. Tuesday, December 18 The Dr. Phillips Center presents Irving Berlin's
“White Christmas” based on the 1954 movie starring Bing Crosby, Danny Kaye, Rosemary Clooney and VeraEllen, which tells the story of a song-and-dance team putting on a show in a magical Vermont inn and falling for a stunning sister act in the process. It's full of dancing, laughter and some of the greatest songs ever written—including “Happy Holiday,” “Sisters,” “The Best Things Happen While You're Dancing,” “Snow” and the unforgettable title song. The show runs today through December 23. For additional information and tickets go to Drphillipscenter.org. Black Haüs presents The Creature Feature Before Christmas: a Tim Burton Tribute at Stonewall Orlando. The night will star special guest from Ru Paul's Drag Race Season 8 Laila McQueen, and Miami's reigning Drag King Andro Gin, and Draggedy Anne! Doors open at 9pm for this 21 and over event, and the cover is $10, but $5 for those in Costume/leather. Cheena serving Christmas dinner till 2am. Wednesday, December 19 Amalie Arena and Cirque du Soleil presents Crystal. This is not just an ice show, it's the very first experience on ice from Cirque du Soleil. Watch world-class ice skaters and acrobats claim their new frozen playground with speed and fluidity as they challenge the laws of gravity with never-before-seen acrobatics. Follow Crystal, our lead character, on an exhilarating
Email WhatsHot@HotspotsMedia.com to have your event considered for “What’s Hot.”
tale of self-discovery as she dives into a world of her imagination. Feel the adrenaline as she soars through this surreal world at high speed to become what she was always destined to be: confident, liberated, empowered. The performance runs today through the 23. For more info and tickets go to: Cirquedusoleil.com/crystal. A brand new production of The Sound Of Music is coming to the Van Wezel! The spirited, romantic and beloved musical story of Maria and the von Trapp Family will once again thrill audiences with its Tony-, Grammy- and Academy Award- winning Best Score, including “My Favorite Things,” “Do-Re-Mi,” “Climb Ev'ry Mountain,” “Edelweiss” and the title song. The Sound Of Music enjoyed extraordinary success as the first live television production of a musical in over 50 years when “The Sound of Music Live!” aired on NBC in December 2013 and was seen by over 44 million people. 2015 marked the 50th anniversary of the film version, which continues to be the most successful movie musical in history. The performance runs today and tomorrow. For additional information and tickets go to: Vanwezel.org. Wednesday, December 26 The VanWezel Performing Arts Hall in association with Wilde Lexus Sarasota & ABC 7 WWSB present On Your Feet!, which takes you behind the music and inside the real story Gloria and Emilio Estefan, the record-making and a groundbreaking couple who, in the face of adversity,
December 28 at The Straz Center in Tampa) For additional information and tickets go to: Dragfans.com.
found a way to end up on their feet. Featuring some of the most iconic songs of the past quarter-century — and one of the most inspiring stories in music history. From their humble beginnings in Cuba, Emilio and Gloria came to America and broke through all barriers to become a crossover sensation at the very top of the pop music world. But just when they thought they had it all, they almost lost everything. Performances run today through the 30th. For additional information and tickets go to Vanwezel.org. Thursday, December 27 Murray & Peter present “A Drag Queen Christmas: The Naughty Tour.” This is a hilarious evening of holiday performances featuring RuPaul's Drag Race Alumni: AJA, Monet Xchange, Thorgy Thor, Shea Coulee, Raja & Latrice Royale at 8pm at The Plaza Live. (In case you miss this performance or want to see more, you can catch the performance on Friday,
Friday, December 28 Southern Nights Orlando presents Willam from the critically-acclaimed motion picture “ A Star is Born” (18+ welcome). Showtime is at 12am with Roxxxy Andrews, Jade Embers, and admission is $10. (Unable to make this performance, don't worry; Willam will be at Southern Nights Tampa on Saturday, December 29.) Saturday, December 29 Join Barcodes Orlando for the Last Leather Night of 2018, hosted by Daddy Dave and featuring live BDSM demonstrations throughout the Night. As always, barcodes has no cover and free parking. Sunday. December 30 The Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts presents Ventriloquist Terry Fator, the winner of Americas Got Talent in 2007. For the past nine years at the Mirage Hotel Terry Fator has sold out night after night with a show featuring his cast of characters that won him Las Vegas's best show, best allaround performer, best family show and best overall show. Showtime is at 8pm. For additional information and tickets go to: Drphillipscenter.org. Monday, December 31 Since the next edition of Hotspots Central will come out on December 27, I will have all the details for New Year’s in Central Florida listed there.
By Scott Holland
With the Holidays just around the corner, I thought I would give you some suggestions on items for your loved ones that I love. As is the case every year, the items I suggest are reasonably priced from $7.99 to $150. I figure if you can afford more than $150 per gift, you don't need my help‌LOL! I would like to take this opportunity to wish everyone a happy and healthy Holiday Season.
Health and Beauty
Dr. Med. Schrammek Kosmetik - drschrammekusa.com They are a 60 year internationally known and respected skincare company from Germany. Their product lines are medically-inspired (closest to prescription skincare) and individually targeted to meet the needs of different skin types, including hot and humid climates. Dr. Schrammek products are combined with innovative and proven ingredients and achieve excellent results. This sought-after skincare is now available in the USA! It's a perfect gift for any special person in your life.
Hydra Maximum Day & Night Cream - $94 & $97 The creams contain a maximum of moisturizing factors. These help to store moisture and protect with valuable natural oils. The moisturizing effect provides the skin with a beautiful looking complexion.
Over 20 Items I Recommend AloCalm Gel Mask - $54 The cooling gel mask for versatile use contains highlyconcentrated aloe vera, hyaluronic acid and panthenol. It soothes the skin after exceptional burdens and is suited for all skin types – even for blemished skin. It is perfect after a sunny day by the beach.
Shea Terra's: Shea Butter + Caffeine Face Cream $28 sheaterraorganics.com. This powerful cream smoothes and soothes your skin making it softer and more even toned. They use rare Ugandan Shea butter, unlike West African Shea butter, which is cold pressed and unrefined. This cream is rich with phytosterols, provitamin A and vitamin E. Its light texture won't clog pores so it is the perfect ingredient for smoothing out lines and rough spots. They've also super charged this cream with gotu kola and guarana for their plant-based caffeine to wake up your skin.
Books
Dollars and Sense: How We Misthink Money and How to Spend Smarter - $16.99 In Dollars and Sense (HarperCollins), bestselling author and behavioral economist Dan Ariely teams up with financial comedian and writer and Editor-in-chief of Peoplescience.com Jeff Kreisler to challenge many of our most basic assumptions about the precarious relationship between our brains and our money. In doing so, they undermine many of personal finance's most sacred beliefs and explain how we can override some of our own instincts to make better financial choices. Paperback will be available for the holidays.
Little Book of You - $49.95 This is a highly personalized and beautifully illustrated baby book that your family will love. The Little Book of You includes: unique details from the day your child was born including the place of birth, time, weight and length of your precious little one; pages of what makes their birthday special: what happened in history on their birthday, famous people who were born on the same date and much more. Each book is proudly made in the USA.
DVDs / CDs
Love, Simon – Available nationwide; $14.99 at target.com From the producers of The Fault in Our Stars comes this relatable and heartfelt coming of age film. Everyone deserves a great love story, but for 17 year old Simon, it's a bit complicated. The gay teenager hasn't come out yet, and doesn't know the identity of the anonymous classmate he's fallen for online. Resolving both issues will be a hilarious, scary, life changing adventure.
Barbra Streisand: Walls - Available nationwide; $11.88 at walmart.com If you know me, you know I love me some Barbra, so you can imagine how excited I was when Columbia Records released this new album, which is the first Barbra Streisand album to encompass a unified social theme. Led by the passionate plea, “Don't Lie To Me,” Streisand shares the guiding principles and values she has believed in, spoken about, and fought for her entire life. Streisand is the only recording artist in history to achieve a #1 Album in six consecutive decades.
This is Us: The Complete Second Season - Available nationwide; $10.58 at ebay.com Everyone has a family. And every family has a story. This Is Us chronicles the Pearson family across the decades: from Jack and Rebecca as young parents in the 1980s to their 37 year old kids Kevin, Kate and Randall searching for love and fulfillment in the present day. This grounded, life-affirming dramedy reveals how the tiniest events in our lives impact who we become, and how the connections we share with each other can transcend time, distance and even death.
Disney's Christopher Robin – Available nationwide Blu-ray/DVD/Digital $17.96 at walmart.com Now a family man living in London and he receives a surprise visit from his old childhood pal, Winnie-the-Pooh. With Christopher's help, Pooh embarks on a journey to find his friends -- Tigger, Eeyore, Owl, Piglet, Rabbit, Kanga and Roo. Once reunited, the lovable bear and the gang travel to the big city to help Christopher rediscover the joy of life.
Other
River Street Sweets - RiverStreetSweets.com This a family owned and operated company in Savannah, GA for over 45 years is the world famous maker of Southern pralines and confections that have been shipped all over the world.
The Sweet Treat Assortment - $54.95 This contains some of River Street Sweets favorite goodies including: world Famous Pralines, Milk Chocolate Bear Claws, Glazed Pecans, Praline Pecans, and Carmel Corn. This delicious package comes in a beautiful red gift box.
The Holiday Gift Tower - $56.95 This 5 tier holiday gift package contains their world famous Pralines, Milk Chocolate Bear Claws, Nutty Caramel Corn, Milk and dark Chocolate Sea salt caramels and crunchy Glazed Pecans.
La San Marzano – Arrabbiata Sauce, Four Cheese Sauce, Marinara Sauce – Amazon.com La Regina di San Marzano, the makers of premium tomato sauces and canned tomato products are now available straight from Italy to your kitchen table. La Regina di San Marzano is a family-owned company delivering products made with real San Marzano tomatoes grown and harvested in the foothills of Mt. Vesuvius. lasanmarzano.com
Motor Chic Socks - $18 Motochicgear.com/shop/performance-socks Travel farther and exercise longer in style with MotoChic. Made from high quality fabric that provides 25 mmHg compression, these knee-high socks are designed to make you look and feel outstanding. Studies show therapeutic compression improves blood flow, and minimizes muscle fatigue and achiness for healthy, energized legs.
Footsac Blanket – starts at $150 – Lovesac.com This Footsac blanket does so much more than keep you cozy on the couch (although it does that very well). Along the bottom of the blanket is an 18" pocket for your feet, which means that you will never again struggle to keep your whole body covered. Small and lightweight enough that you can easily toss it in your carry-on, but still big enough to cover two snuggling love bugs. They're currently available in Eskimo, Mousse and Snow Owl phur.
LoveWithFood - As low as $7.99 a month – Lovewithfood.com This is the snack-subscription service delivering a monthly curation of delicious, clean ingredient snacks directly to your home. Snacks made with real ingredients and no added chemicals! Because they believe snacks aren't just snacks, they're the building blocks to living a happier, healthier, more purposeful life. Plus with every snack box delivered to you, they donate at least one meal to an American family in need through their partnership with Feeding America. Since 2012, they've donated over 1M meals!
Epic Popcorn – 1 gallon: $24.95 EpicPopcorn.com They are the first NGLCC certified (National Gay and Lesbian Chamber of Commerce) popcorn company, creating healthier, gourmet-inspired popcorn. Epic Popcorn utilizes quality ingredients in every batch of its delicious popcorn – starting with its nonGMO corn, pure coconut oil, 100% nontans-fat cheese and gluten free flavors. Some flavors include: Fruity Loops, Margarita, Pizza, Dill Pickle, Parmesan Garlic, Spicy Buffalo and Cinnamon toast.
Veuve Clicquot Colorama Collection (Champagne) - $60 – Available nationwide This champagne has a unique case offering for Veuve Clicquot Yellow Label and NonVintage Rosé, inspired by Veuve Clicquot's iconic yellow and pink hues that have long been synonymous with the brand. Shaped as traditional paint tubes, it pays homage to the aesthetic of Veuve Clicquot Champagne and keeps your 750mL bottle chilled for up to two hours, making it the perfect gift for your favorite party host or Champagne enthusiast.
Liquor / Spirits
TasteMaker - (create cocktails and Ice Balls) - $27.99 – Amazon.com Impress your holiday guests with your new infused mixology skills and make them a delicious cocktail to ring in the season. You'll be whipping up 100% pure authentic concoctions with your own homemade infused spirits in no time. Tastemaker allows you to manage the purity and honesty of the infusion ingredients with no strange flavorings or additives. And it's completely personalized to your own unique taste. Just grab a bottle of any base liquor, like distilled vodka, and add in your favorite fruits, herbs, sweets or spices.
Spoken Barrel – Available nationwide for a suggested retail price of $19.99. SB is born from the rugged growing conditions of Washington's Colombia Valley, resulting in high-quality wines tha are easy to pick out, open up, and share with confidence. Cabernet Sauvignon – deep ruby in color, it exhibits classic, concentrated aromas of cherry, black currant, dark chocolate, and roasted oak. Lush and concentrated flavors of blackberry and cherry with hints of cassis lead to a warm, toasty sweet vanilla finish with fine, velvety tannins Meritage Red Blend – Black garnet in color, it features bright, fresh fruit aromas of blackberry and red plum with dark notes of leather, black licorice, and deep roasted oak. A dense and rich mouthful is accented by complex flavors of bright red fruits, toasty oak, smoke, chocolate, and citrus rind. The ample tannins are supple and carry the flavors through to a long finish.
A John Waters Christmas. One night only December 17 in Orlando
By Scott Holland
///////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////// By Scott Holland
Photos by Greg Gorman
L
Like a damaged St. Nick for the Christmas corrupted, John Waters – legendary filmmaker (“Female Trouble”, “Hairspray”, “Serial Mom”), raconteur and author of bestselling books, Carsick, Role Models and Make Trouble – hitchhikes into town with a bag full of sticks and stones for the devoted and the damned, spreading Yuletide profanity and perverted piety with his critically acclaimed one-man show, “A John Waters Christmas”. This rapidfire “trigger warning” for holiday traditionalists asks the questions, “Is Prancer the only gay reindeer?”, “Is it wrong to steal purses from cars in graveyard parking lots on Christmas Eve while mourners leave flowers?”, “Has Santa ever been nude?”, and, most importantly, “Should you disrupt living crèche celebrations this year in the name of political action?” Miracles really do happen at Yuletide, even if they're false, and Waters prays for a Gaspar Noé Christmas film, and a new sex club that encourages gay men and lesbians to have sex with each other for the very first time. Delving into his love for the annual December warning list of “Unsafe Toys to Give Your Child” and his hatred for email Christmas cards, The Easter Bunny, and any kind of holiday “food issues”, the Pope of Trash will give you a Cool Yule like no other. You better watch out, you better cry! John Waters, the People's Pervert, is coming to town, and will be at show at Plaza Live on Monday December 17 in Orlando.
When did you start your annual Christmas Show, and how did it come about? I would say about 14 or 15 years ago at the Castro Theater. I was asked to do a Christmas show based on why I love Christmas, and it just grew from that.
Does it change every year? I re-write stuff every year as and I come up with new jokes… I re-write the show every year, and I have to come up with lots of new jokes. It would be boring to me, and I am sure to the audience, if I just performed the same show every year. I just finished writing it in Sept and I haven't learned it yet.
What is different in the 2018 Christmas Show? Lots, that's why I rewrite it….I don't want people to hear the same joke. The structure is the same. What fun would it be if Santa brought you the same gifts every year?
What does the future hold? Who knows, I am 72 years old and I have never been busier in my whole life. My new book comes out in May and I am still traveling all over the world and hosting things. I have more jobs than I can handle.
Love where you live.
Skyline Fifth. On the corner of hip and cool.
skylinefifthapartments.com 727.327.1444
By Scott Holland & Julie Musbach
T
The Tony Award-winning Best Musical Revival of Hello, Dolly!, starring Broadway legend, Tony Award winner Betty Buckley, in its first national tour will play at the Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts through December 2 and then from Dec 4 through Dec 9 at the Straz Center for the Performing Arts. Ms. Buckley will be joined by Lewis J. Stadlen (Horace Vandergelder), Nic Rouleau (Cornelius Hackl), Analisa Leaming (Irene Molloy), Jess LeProtto (Barnaby Tucker), Kristen Hahn (Minnie Fay), Garett Hawe
(Ambrose Kemper), Morgan Kirner (Ermengarde), and Jessica Sheridan (Ernestina). Led by four-time Tony Award-winning director Jerry Zaks and choreographed by Tony Award winner Warren Carlyle, the entire creative team of the Broadway production reprises their roles for the national tour of Hello, Dolly!, including four-time Tony Award winner Santo Loquasto (Scenic & Costume Design), six-time Tony Award winner Natasha Katz (Lighting Design), Tony Award
winner Scott Lehrer (Sound Design), Andy Einhorn (Music Supervision), Robert Billig (Music Direction), Tony Award winner Larry Hochman Hotspots and BroadwayWorld.com sat down with Betty for this interview: At what age did singing and acting become interests of yours and when did you know singing and acting were going to officially be your career? My aunt was a dance teacher and my mother was a singer and a dancer so they told me I sang in church when I was two, and studied dance when I was three. When I was 11, I saw my first Broadway show and was bitten by Bob Fosse and knew my interest was in this form. My mother also had an extensive collection of cast albums and great lady singers and that's what really taught me to sing. My first professional job was when I was 15. I did shows at our local theater every summer after that. Who were your inspirations in the recording industry? There have been so many...Ella Fitzgerald, Sarah Vaughan, Billie Holiday, Della Reese, Nancy Wilson...I was also very inspired by Brazilian Dori Caymmi, Keith Jarrett, Michael
McDonald, Steely Dan, Led Zeppelin, Jefferson Airplane, Janis Joplin, Joni Mitchell, and many more. Do you remember how it felt when they called your name as the winner of the Tony Award for Best Actress in a Musical for Cats, and can you describe it to me? I was pretty excited. It was an amazing time being a member of the Cats team and doing that show brought me through the doorway to work with Andrew Lloyd Webber. His whole team taught me so much. How amazing was it and what did it mean to you to be inducted into the American Theater Hall of Fame? It was really nice and a huge honor. I didn't get to go to my induction ceremony as I was in London, so the following year I got to induct my friend Ellen Burstyn which made up for it. I feel so grateful that I have been included. How did this incredible offer of Starring in “Hello Dolly� come to you? I had just gotten a job on Preacher on AMC and was in New Orleans starting work on that. My agent called and said 'Are you sitting down?' and I said 'No' and he said 'Scott Rudin
wants you to do Hello, Dolly!' and all I could say was 'Oh my god, I'll have to call you back.' I was literally pacing my hotel suite thinking 'can I do this? This is huge, it's such a huge part.' I called him back and I said yes, if they think I can do it I'll do it. A week later they flew me to New York to meet with Jerry Zaks and Scott Rudin and they were so lovely and had such conviction about me being able to do it. Had you seen the show on Broadway? What did you think of it? I saw the show before The Tony Awards and I just thought it was the greatest production of Hello, Dolly! I'd ever seen and probably one of the greatest pieces of musical theatre I've ever seen. In fact, I was standing weeping with joy at the end of the show along with the rest of the audience. When Bette Midler made her last cross down the passerelle at the curtain call and everyone is reaching up trying to touch her, I was in the second row and I was reaching up trying to touch her too! I just thought it was the perfect show. Santo Loquasto's design, the costumes, the choreography, it's all out of this world. Jerry Zak's direction is freaking genius and Bette was like the greatest ice cream sundae I've ever seen. You just wanted to scoop her up she's so delicious.
What do you tap into to bring such a big character to life on stage? It's magic all its own. My whole process is based on meditation as well as listening really closely to what the director says and what the choreographer says. I try to stay in the immediate present reality with my partners on stage, it's a give and take reality. In this case learning the lines is huge and just finding an inner journey within that that makes sense. I've also been doing research including reading The Matchmaker which the musical is based on to get into the right mindset. All in all, how would you sum up your experience so far? A gift. Every morning I'm on my knees with gratitude and every night the last thing I think about is how incredibly appreciative I am to be a part of this.
Tickets to Hello, Dolly! are available through at Drphillipscenter.org with tickets starting at $39.25 and at StrazCenter.org with tickets starting at $60. For more on Betty Buckley, go to BettyBuckley.com.
C
Cirque du Soleil returns to the Tampa area with Cirque du Soleil's Crystal. This unique arena production showcases synchronized and freestyle ice skating alongside circus disciplines such as swinging trapeze, hand balancing on chairs and hand to hand. Crystal will perform at the Amalie Arena from Wednesday, December 19 through 23 for 7 shows. Watch world-class ice skaters and acrobats explore their new frozen playground with speed and fluidity as they challenge the laws of gravity with never-before-seen acrobatics. Cirque du Soleil's Crystal fuses circus arts and the world of ice skating in a stunning new
By Scott Holland production that will take the audience on a journey into a surreal world where figure skating blends with acrobatics and aerial feats. Directed by Shana Carroll and Sebastien Soldevila, Crystal, their misfit heroine, takes you on an exhilarating tale of self-discovery as she dives into a world of her own imagination. Feel the adrenaline as she soars through this surreal world at high speed to become what she was always destined to be: confident, liberated, and empowered. Crystal invites you to suspend reality and glide into a world that springs to colorful life with astounding visual projections and a soundtrack that seamlessly blends
popular music with the signature sound of Cirque du Soleil. It was a pleasure to sit down with one
Scott Smith
and internationally.
Who did you or do you look up to in the Figure skating world? I remember watching the 1988 Olympics as a kid and seeing Brian Boitano win the gold and then seeing Scott Hamilton on Stars on Ice. Those are the 2 I look up to, and have been lucky enough to meet.
What was the best contest/medal you won and why? I won the national junior championship, which was amazing.
How did you get hired at Cirque and how does it feel working for the iconic Cirque Du Soleil? I submitted a resume and video for Crystal, and at the time I was doing a trapeze act on cruise ships. Shortly after the show opened they contacted me and I showed up to the tour the 4th week of the show. That was about a year ago.
What's the best part of traveling with Cirque?
of Crystal's principle skaters, Scott Smith, for this exclusive Hotspots interview.
I really enjoy getting to see all my friends from around the country that I haven't seen in a long time. They get to see me performing, which is really special for me. In addition, the other artists are really great so traveling with
When was the first time you put on a pair of Ice Skates, and how quickly did you know you loved the sport? I was about 7 years old, and it was at a birthday party for a kid in my class. I loved it right away, and begged for skating lessons right after the party.
What was your first professional gig? When I was 10, a local rink, where I grew up in Baltimore, was doing the Nutcracker on Ice. I got cast and it was my first taste of getting paid.
When did you start competing? I started competing almost right away, probably around 8 years old. As I got older I spread out doing competitions all over the US
a group of friends is really fun.
What's has been your favorite city on the tour? I really enjoyed San Diego: beautiful weather, and nice restaurants. I also enjoyed our premiere in Montreal.
What should our readers expect from the production of Crystal? They can expect the unexpected. It's not like any other Cirque Show or Ice show, so come on down and be amazed.
For more information on Scott, you can follow him at: Instagram.com/SK8trapscott. For more information on Crystal or any Cirque Show or to purchase tickets, go to: cirquedusoleil.com.
hot shots photos by tony fowler
Pride-Zoo-LA An Evening at Zoo Tampa
By Scott Holland
E
Even before she was cast on the real Housewives of Beverly Hills, I knew Erika Jayne from her fabulous performances. I had seen her perform in Fort Lauderdale and Miami, and she commands the stage. You know someone is a true diva when she has beautiful/godlike dancers behind her and you can't take your eyes off her. Therefore you know I was fangirling out a bit right before the interview, but as soon as she picked up the phone she said “Hi Scott and Happy Thanksgiving (it was the day before Thanksgiving),� and I knew she was as wonderful a person as I anticipated. By the way, at the end of the interview, she wished me Happy Thanksgiving once again! It was a pleasure to speak with Erika Jayne for this exclusive Hotspots Interview just a couple weeks before her Pretty Mess tours stops in Orlando.
Were you always a performer, even as a child? I have been entertaining since I was 3 years old.
When did singing/performing become a real interest? Around the age of 14 when I went to performing arts high school. At that point I knew this was it!
You are a Diva for the gay community. Did that happen immediately or when did the gay community find you? My family, my mentors and a lot friends are members of the LGBTQ community, and thank god the gay community embraced Erika Jayne and the music I produce.
Where do you find your sexy back up dancers from? They are hand-picked for me.
You have a great sense of fashion. Did that come naturally? I have always enjoyed fashion since I was a little kid. I get it from my mom and grandma.
We always loved to express ourselves creatively.
How did you pick your Glam Squad? And tell me more about them as I feel you treat them like family? I work with a very close group of hair and makeup people. We spend so much time together that they really become your family. They are my family!
How did you get cast on RHOBH? I was sitting on Yolanda's couch and we were chatting, and she said you ought to be on the show. She texted her boss, set up an interview for me, and I got the job.
After so many seasons, are you still enjoying it? I think it has done a lot for me and I am grateful!
Other than in Florida, do you have a favorite city/venue/event to perform in or at? I would have to say I had a really great experience in Chicago recently, but I love so many places that I performed at, it's impossible to pick a favorite!
I have to ask about your Memoir, Pretty Mess, how did that come about, and was it a cathartic experience? I don't think it was cathartic, as I didn't find myself healing old wounds. I was just telling my story, and it was a great experience. I am so glad that it was well received.
What should the Florida audiences expect form “The Pretty Mess Tour”? Glitz, glamour, fun and a good time. Me in fabulous costumes, singing fabulous songs with hot guys behind me…come to the show!
Catch Erika Jayne in her Pretty Mess Tour performing Monday, Dec 10, at 9pm at The Plaza Live (425 N Bumby Ave, Orlando) tickets starting at only $40.
hot shots photos by tony fowler
Salty’s Gulfport Toy Drive with Halcyon
hot bodies By Tom Bonanti
The Health Benefits of Having More Sex
T
This week I'm going to talk candidly about a topic that is on the minds of millions of guys all the time: sex! Most guys spend half their lives dreaming about it, pursuing it, and hopefully getting more of it! Stress and strain, busy work and social schedules, and other worries can often cause you to put it off or postpone having it. But in the long run, it's one of the healthiest, low cost, most invigorating experiences a body can have. Here are 6 benefits of having a healthy sex life! 1. Sex is a physical activity that burns calories. Did you know that having sex regularly, say twice or three times a week can burn up to as many as 10,000 calories yearly? That's equivalent to running 100
miles. For those who hate doing cardio, having sex is certainly a more agreeable option than a tread mill or rowing machine. 2. Sex boosts your levels of feel good hormones. Did you ever notice how great you feel after a good run or a killer workout? This is because vigorous physical activity triggers the release of endorphins and enkephalines, the body's natural pain killing hormones. Having sex unleashes these same hormones and gives you that wonderful elated feeling! 3. Sex relieves stress. The next time you have a crappy day, instead of thinking, “I'm too tired,” go ahead and have sex. You'll be surprised at how great you and your partner will feel afterward. Alone? No problem at all. Masturbation is rejuvenating and a hell of a lot more fun than playing solitaire or knitting. 4. Sex revs up your natural testosterone levels – as does any vigorous physical
activity. So, if you are dedicated to pumping iron and doing regular cardio, sex is a great accompaniment to your physical lifestyle. Increasing natural testosterone levels can build solid bones and healthy, hard muscles in men, and it can boost interest in sex as well. Testosterone is also a corticosteroid – a substance that reduces pain and inflammation in all areas of the body. Yep, having more sex is a natural pain killer, too! 5. Sex keeps the prostate healthy. The cause of many prostate problems is that fluids in the prostate gland aren't emptied regularly. A nice big orgasm benefits your prostate. Not only is your penis rock-hard, but the base of those muscles surrounding the prostate gland are rock hard as well. They squeeze at a rapid rate during orgasm, pushing out all those fluids. Even “getting off” once a week can benefit your prostate immensely. 6. Sex can improve the quality of your sleep. With the increased amount of physical activity, as well as the marvelous physical and psychological release that comes with having sex, who needs a sleeping pill? There's nothing more relaxing than a healthy orgasm to help you slip deliciously off to dreamland.
Tom Bonanti is a certified personal trainer and massage therapist (MA#40288) with his own one on one facility www.pumpnincgym.com in Ft. Lauderdale. Contact trainertomb@aol.com or call Tom (954) 557-1119 to schedule a massage or training session today.
hot advice By Andreus Quinones
Scared & Caught in Between “For most people, there is no way in hell they are going to allow their partner's ex to stay in their home...”
D
Dear Andreus, I met this amazing guy. We have been going out for a couple of months now, and he is different from anyone I have ever met before. He is absolutely gorgeous, extremely intelligent, and always keeps me on my toes. We have been moving slowly, which I guess is good, but I want to stake my claim. He is a definite catch, and I feel like if I wait too long, someone else might notice. The truth is, I am totally falling for him. Is it too soon to say I love you? Sincerely, Scared to Mess Up Dear Scared To Mess Up, This is indeed a delicate situation. As much as you might feel for him, you have only been dating for a couple of months. Saying something as intense as “I love you”, could be overwhelming, or it could be just the thing he wants to hear. There is no certainty. Only you can decide if you are willing to throw yourself out there being fully aware of the possibilities. I would say take things slow. If it is meant to happen, it will. I always feel like it's best to allow things to happen naturally. On the other hand, there truly is such a thing as “love at first sight.” We cannot control our hearts, so listen to your gut instinct. Best of luck!
Dear Andreus, My partner and I have been together for 5 years. We have lived together for 2. He's an amazing guy, and we have a phenomenal relationship. Recently I was contacted by my ex who fell on hard times.
He is now homeless, and asked me if he could stay with us for a few weeks while he tries to get his life back on track. I care for him immensely, but it would be such an awkward situation. I really want to help him. What do I do? Sincerely, Caught In Between
Dear Caught In Between, Ok, let's think about this… Don't you dare!! I understand that you care for your ex, and if you want to help, try to find other venues or resources to help him find a place (of course remaining completely transparent with your partner at all times). I think you already know that this is not an acceptable scenario. For most people, there is no way in hell they are going to allow their partner's ex to stay in their home. However innocent your intentions might be, it is just not a good idea. From what you said, you have a good thing going, don't mess it up. Refer him to The Salvation Army, pray for him, and keep it moving!
around tampa bay by amy demilo
What’s really going on?
Kandy Ho at the Honey Pot
Hamburger Mary’s Brandon
Miss Heart of Florida 2019 - Alexis Mateo