Central Florida Edition August 2019
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Photographers
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on the inside
Central Florida Edition August 2019
Sebastian Grey
Project Runway’s Winner Sits down for a one-on-one with Hotspots!
columns and features: • What’s Hot Central Florida
• Interview with Sebastian Grey • Gay DayS
• 13 Home Improvement Projects YYou Can Do Yourself
• Hot Bodies—How to Combine wWeight Training & Doing Cardio
• Frivolist—6 Ways To Do Summer NNaked
hot shots • Flamingo Resort Closing Party • Southern Nights Tampa • Cristoph’s Bear Soup
What’s
HOT
...everything you need to plan your month
what’s hot By Scott Holland
everything you need to know
to plan your month
W
Welcome to the What’s Hot August column where we feature events happening all over Central Florida. If you are looking for Gaydays events, please see the special feature on Gaydays. Continue reading on to learn What's Hot in August!
Thursday, Aug 1
Florida Theatrical Association presents the ten-time Tony Award nominee The Full Monty at The Abbey in downtown Orlando from today through August 19. Based on the cult hit film of
the same name, The Full Monty is filled with honest affection, engaging melodies and the most highly anticipated closing number of any show. Six unemployed steelworkers in Buffalo, NY are miserable. They have no cash and no prospects. After seeing their wives go crazy over male strippers at their “Girls' Night Out,” the men set out to make some quick cash showing off their "real man" bodies by becoming a team of male strippers. As they conquer their fears, selfconsciousness and prejudices, the men come to discover that they're stronger as a group, and the strength that they find in each other gives them the individual courage to "let it go." Tickets are on sale now and can be purchased at TicketFly.com.
Friday, August 2
The Dr. Phillips Center for the
performing arts presents Tim Allen at 8pm. Allen honed his talents as a stand-up comic throughout the eighties, providing the perfect lead-in to his highly successful ABC television series “Home Improvement” where he garnered a Golden Globe
Award, an Emmy nomination, and was honored with the People's Choice Award for “Favorite Male Performer in a Television Series” for an unprecedented eight years in a row. Tickets start at $71 at DrPhillipsCenter.org The Orlando Improv presents DL Hughley today tomorrow and Sunday. As the
star and producer of his namesake television show that ran on ABC and UPN "The Hughleys," D.L. is also well known as one of the standout comedians on the hit comedy docu-film The Original Kings of Comedy. A veteran of numerous talk show appearances D.L. switched the tables in 2005, hosting his own talk show on Comedy Central "Weekends at the DL." He is a regular on the late night talk show circuit. He is frequently requested, and has even guest hosted on such shows as, "The View" and "Live with Regis & Kelly." In addition, D.L. has headlined several comedy specials including "D.L. Hughley: Going Home," "D.L. Hughley Live", "Shocked & Appalled" and the recent "Unapologetic". Tickets start at $35 at TheImprovOrlando.com.
party in City Walk! Located at the iconic Hard Rock Live Orlando, this is an evening you don't want to miss! Join them as they honor our community's rock stars, and contact them ASAP to learn about sponsorships in a variety of packages. For more information or to purchase your ticket(s), go to: thepridechamber.org/events. The Parliament House presents Big, Bold & Beautiful, as the Big Gal Invasion comes to the World Famous Parliament House! That’s right 3 of the big girls from RuPaul's Drag Race:
Saturday, August 3
The MBA presents the 2019 Pride in Business Awards Gala presented by Two Spirit Health from 8 to 11pm. This night will honor the Orlando's region stellar performers in business within the LGBT community. With the awards presented by distinguished community leaders and business professionals during an incredible full course dinner, the Gala also includes an awesome silent auction, a special VIP pre-dinner reception, and an epic after
Victoria “Porkchop” Parker, Jiggly Caliente, and Stacy Layne Matthews will all be performing with the Footlight players tonight at 10pm and 12 midnight. General admission is $12, with a VIP meet and greet only $20. Neema's Latin Saturdays "Amor" at Stonewall Bar Orlando presents extra special guest Miss Continental 2018 Stasha Sanchez during the show at 12am. Along with Stasha they will feature Amalara Sofia and Mhi'ya Iman Lepaige. Door Diva Samantha Stone
opens up at 9pm, and there is NO COVER until 10pm. Music by DJs Franklin Cruel and Kraig Matthews.
Monday, August 5
Neema, and his Latin Saturdays "Amor" combine with Southern Nights Orlando to present the Miss Glamorous Newcomer 2019 Pageant honoring Miss Glamorous newcomer Mhi'ya
Iman LePaige. Doors open at 8pm with pageant starting at 9pm. Admission is $15 (cash only), and registration for contestant is $100 before August 1 and $150 thereafter with the winner taking $1,000 in cash! The categories include: presentation (Glitz and Glamour), Solo talent and Gown. The night will be hosted by Angelica Michelle Jones with performances by:Azsia Dupree (Kayla Finn), Kenya M. Black, Felicia T Fox and Olivia Rae Taylor. For morecall Neema at 386235-6169 or email neemapulseorlando@gmail.com
Friday, August 9
Southern Nights Orlando presents the birthday celebration of Nina West,
who won the congeniality award on RuPaul's Drag Race Season 11. The night will also feature drag shows at 11pm & 12:30am featuring Roxxxy Andrews, Maya Andrews, Tasha Long, Sassy Devine & Tashae Royale Sherrington. The Amway Center in Orlando presents the Jonas Brothers, along with opening acts Bebe Rexha and Jordan McGraw at 7:30pm. After
building overwhelming anticipation, Grammynominated multiplatinum powerhouse trio–Jonas Brothers—present their Happiness Begins Tour, their first headline tour in almost a decade. Tickets start at $82 at AmwayCenter.com. They will also be performing tomorrow, Saturday, August 10, at the Amalie Arena in Tampa at 7:30pm with tickets starting at $27 at Amaliearena.com
Saturday, August 10
The STRAZ Center for the Performing Arts presents the annual Pole for a Purpose pole dance and aerial arts showcase featuring performers from around the United States in this spectacular demonstration of alluring athleticism. Prepare for an evening of sultry thrills and intoxicating acrobatics on fourteen feet of chrome. The best part? All the fun is for a great cause - Pole for a
Purposehas raised over $32,000 for charitable organizations. For more information, visit poleforapurpose.com. For tickets, which start at $43, go to: Strazcenter.org.
Tuesday, August 13
Starting today and going through Friday, August 16th the NGLCC (National LGBT Chamber of Commerce) will present their International Business & Leadership Conference 2019 at the Tampa Convention Center. This globally recognized conference is the largest LGBT business event on the planet. The NGLCC Conference delivers innovative leadership programming as well as networking and engagement opportunities for more than 1,400 LGBT and allied business leaders. Cuttingedge educational programs include inspiring keynote speakers Billy Porter and Sally Hogshead and trans son Ash, the annual B2B Boot Camp for certified LGBT Business Enterprises (LGBTBEs), a local chamber development track, Marketplace Expo, one-onone Matchmaker meetings between suppliers and Fortune 500 companies, and much more. There will also
be a special performance Deborah Cox. For more information or to purchase tickets go to: nglcc.org/nglcc19
Friday, August 16
The Amway Center in Orlando presents Khalid in his Free Spirit World Tour at 7:30pm. In July 2016, his debut single, “Location,” was certified quadruple platinum by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA). In March 2017, he released his critically-
acclaimed debut studio album, “American Teen,” and received Grammy nominations for Best Urban Contemporary Album and Best R&B Song ("Location"). In 2018, he released, “Love Lies,” a duet with singer Normani recorded for the film soundtrack, “Love, Simon” and it reached the top 10 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. "Love Lies" was each artist's first number one song on Billboard's Pop Songs chart, and finished in the top
Email WhatsHot@HotspotsMedia.com to have your event considered for “What’s Hot.”
20 on Billboard's 2018 Hot 100 Year-End chart. Tickets star at $37 at AmwayCenter.com
Saturday, August 17
Kink - An Art Affair, will makes its debut and is sure to be more than another art auction coming to St Petersburg. From 8pm to midnight. This event celebrates our craving for love, lust, and fascination with everything in between. It is
also a platform to educate on safe and informed sex through knowledge and sexual empowerment. The visual art for auction is complimented with entertainment featuring guest DJ L MO, body painting by Undine Body Art and Nicole Hays, donation bar, erotic performances by TigerLily, Dondelion, male revue Tampa, and a host of sexy guests. Food truck by Maggie on the Move and decadent desserts. Special demonstrations from: Florida LeatherSir and Leatherboy 2019, Florida Community Boot black, Running Aemok, Electro and Impact play, Roping, and so many more surprises to be announced! All art donated by local artists for auction will benefit and be held at Metro Inclusive Health (3251 3rd Avenue North). If you haven't guessed, “tasteful nudity” will also be present (exposed breast must wear pasties and no exposed
genitalia). Guests are encouraged to dress up or down in their fetish finest. KINK is a 21+ event. For full list of artists go to: metrotampabay.org/event/ki nk-an-art-affair/
Sunday, August 18
The Amalie Arena presents Queen + Adam Lambert in The Rhapsody Tour at 8pm. Announcing their Rhapsody tour Taylor said: "We are ready for America and raring to get back in the saddle.” Lambert said: “We have been designing a brand-new visual spectacle that will reframe these iconic songs and we are excited to unveil it!” May adds: “This is a great opportunity. Our last tour featured our most ambitious production ever, and got us our best notices ever. So we decided to rip it apart and get
Housing Projects to a standup comedienne/movie star/bacon loving television personality is not something that happens easily or often, but somehow Loni Love pulled it off with her usual aplomb. Loni is currently a co-host of The Real, the onehour daily talk show which has just been renewed for a fifth & sixth season on Fox stations. The show was nominated for four EMMY Awards, including Outstanding Talk Show, and won the EMMY for Outstanding Entertainment Talk Show Hosts. Tickets are $25 at ImprovTampa.com. Southern Nights Orlando presents the 1st runner up from Season 11 of Ru Paul's
Drag Race, the Canadian bombshell Brooke Lynn Hytes. If you can't make it tonight, catch Brooke tomorrow, Saturday, August 24, at Southern Nights Tampa.
Saturday, August 24
even more ambitious! Watch out, America!" Tickets start at $46 at Amaliearena.com
Friday, August 23
The Tampa Improv presents Loni Love tonight, tomorrow and Sunday. A real-life journey that takes a person from a latchkey kid of a loving and hardworking mother in Detroit's Brewster-Douglass
The Amway Center presents The Backstreet Boys (BSB) in their first and biggest arena tour in 18 years. The band is touring in support of their latest album, “DNA.” BSB analyzed their own individual DNA profiles to discover what crucial element each member represents in the group's DNA. Tickets which start at $190 can be purchased at AmwayCenter.com The Amalie Arena presents
Monster Jam in their Triple Threat Series today at 1 and 7pm. This Series brings adrenaline-charged family entertainment to fans across the country. These worldclass Monster Jam vehicles and athletes deliver what fans want to see most, more trucks, more racing, more freestyle, more donuts, more wheelies, and more action! Each event tests the versatility of the athletes as they go head-to-head in seven different competitions driving three different vehicles Monster Jam trucks, Monster Jam Speedsters and Monster Jam ATVs. These athletes battle for points in challenging Racing and Freestyle events that push themselves and their machines to the limit. The point leader will receive an automatic bid to the
prestigious Monster Jam World Finals to compete for the title of World Champion. Tickets start at $15 at Amaliearena.com.
Friday, August 30
The Tampa Improv presents Lavell Crawford tonight, tomorrow and Sunday. From his numerous television
appearances and as one of the hottest touring acts in the country, audiences are becoming increasingly familiar with Lavell's giantsized talent. Lavell gained
huge national exposure on NBC's hit reality series Last Comic Standing. He was also seen as a regular panelist on E! Entertainment's Chelsea Lately, The Orlando Improv presents Tommy Davidson today, tomorrow and Sunday. Tommy Davidson's exceptional range – from stand-up comedy and acting to versatile music accomplishments – have earned him a reputation as an extraordinary performer. Best known as one of the stars of the hit television show In Living Color, his visibility has allowed him to become a household name known for his innovative talent. Davidson's hilarious impressions of Sammy Davis Jr., Michael Jackson and other icons have become infamous. Tickets at $22 at TheImprovOrlando.com.
hot shots photos by tony fowler
Flamingo Resort’s Final Bash St. Pete
“Project Runway� Winner Sits down for a one-on-one with Hotspots!
A
Photos By: Dale Stine
Sebastian Grey
By Scott Holland
Although I am very far from a fashionista, I am a huge fan of Project Runway and have watched it since season 1. This season, in episode 2 when Sebastian won the challenge is when I called him as the winner. There was just something special about his visions, the way he designs, and the way he tailors his clothes. It wasn't since season 4, in 2008, when Christian Siriano won Project Runway that I knew the winner from basically the very beginning. Somehow I missed the fact that Sebastian lived right here in Florida until after he was
announced as the winner. He comes across as a real down to earth sweet guy on television and in person he was even sweeter, so it was a real pleasure for me to conduct this Hotspots exclusive interview:
Do you remember the first time fashion got your attention, and/or the first time you sewed anything?
The first time fashion got my attention was when I was in Colombia, as my dad owned a leather shop and I was always around leather. Sometimes I would take little pieces of leather
and make jackets for my cousins Barbie's. I realized I wanted to be in fashion when I was in Ballet school, and I saw how the seamstresses constructed the outfits, and how they expressed so many emotions without saying anything. It made me want to design clothes.
What was the first piece you were proud of?
I guess the first piece I was proud of was when I was working for Andreas Otalora as his assistant and he gave me the opportunity to make a piece for his collection. It was going to be in a runway show and I was so proud of it.
What made you move to the United States?
When I was in Colombia I was working with many designers, but I was looking for new opportunities. I came here a few times for the designers and fell in love. When I moved here it was rough, because I didn't speak one word of English.
How many times did you apply to be on “Project Runway� and how did it feel when you found out you were chosen?
I only applied once. I was watching the show in Colombia with my mom, and when I moved here I applied and 20 minutes after I submitted the application they called me. It was mind blowing.
On the first few days of filming, did you scope out your competition, and who did you think they would be?
No, I never saw people as competitors, but I saw nice and good designers and I was really impressed by the work of Bishme. How did it feel when they
announced your name as the winner of “Project Runway”?
It was one of those moments that you feel it's not real. I think I passed out for a second, and then I reacted. I knew it would change my life!
One of the most touching things I have seen on Project Runway was Nina's comments to you after they announced you as the winner. How did that feel?
Coming from Nina, it was one of the moments when your chest gets full of happiness and joy as she is one of my fashion icons. To feel that she was so connected to my story was amazing.
What was some of your favorite pieces you made on the show?
From the final collection my favorite piece was “Werregue Leather Gown,” and from the season my favorite pieces were: the piece I made for the A Human Challenge, and the piece I made for Nicole (sanitation worker) from the real workers of New York challenge. I made her an engagement dress. I also liked the “What We Care” challenge, when each designer had to pick a cause and I chose Racial Equality. I wanted to send a message that no matter where we came from or what our nationality or skin tone is we all are the same and have to treat each other with respect and love.
How hard was it to keep the secret that you won?
It was not too hard, because the finale was just filmed a couple weeks before it aired. They also
“A lot of brands are looking for partnerships, and I think the sky's the limit.” train us very well.
Tell us something we would be surprised to know about you?
I think you saw all of me on Project Runway…I am an open book.
How did you meet your husband, and when did you know he was the one?
I met him 3 years ago, and I knew immediately. When I saw him the first time I knew this was it, and from day one we never separated.
What are you going to do with the 300,000?
I started to fix my website and I am starting to make a capsule collection. I am also going to fix my parents' house in Colombia and pay the debts there. I am just going to keep working and hopefully putting out clothes everyone loves.
What does the future hold for you?
A lot of people are reaching out to me for red carpets. I also got contacted to make costumes for a movie. A lot of brands are looking for partnerships, and I think the sky's the limit.
For more information on Sebastian, go to: JohanSebastianGrey.com or Sebastiangrey.us or on Istagram.com/Iamsebastiangrey
Gay DayS 2019 GayDayS is proud to announce the Host Hotel for GayDayS Orlando 2019 is the Wyndham Orlando Resort International Drive located at 8001 International Drive. It is next door to the Icon Orlando entertainment complex. The complex is home to Madame Tussauds Wax Museum and the Sea Life Orlando Aquarium as well as many restaurants, shopping opportunities, and attractions. Dates for the 29th Annual GayDayS are August 13 thru 19. GayDayS guests will be pleased to learn that the Wyndham, as host hotel, is offering many complimentary benefits to all GayDayS reservations including Free parking, Wolfgang Puck Coffee makers in-room coffee & tea, refrigerator, wireless in-room high speed internet, Fitness Center & Spa access including unlimited use of equipment, sauna, steam room, lockers and shower facilities, Spectrum "Just like Home" in room Entertainment Package and more!
Welcome & Information Booth
Wyndham Orlando Resort Key & Citrus Ballroom Lobby. Tue 11am–6pm, Wed 10am–8pm, Thu–Sat 9am–9pm, Sun 9am–6pm. GayDayS ambassadors will greet you and answer any questions you may have. Don't leave without your free GayDayS 2019 Welcome Bag.
Ticket & Merchandise Center
Wyndham Orlando Resort Lime Ballroom. Tue Noon–5pm, Wed 11am–6pm, Thu 10am–7pm, Fri–Sat 9am–7pm, Sun 9am–5pm. The Ticket & Merchadise Center is the one-stop location to pick up or purchase Official GayDayS event tickets, pool party bands, and exclusive merchandise including the "#RedShirtDays" Official GayDayS 2019 Red Shirt!
GayDays Expo
Wyndham Orlando Resort -Key & Citrus Ballroom Thu 11am–7pm, Fri–Sat 10am–7pm, Sun 10am–4pm. Experience one of the largest Gay & Lesbian Expos in the world featuring of businesses from all over the world! Showcasing a variety of goods and services. Over 20,000 attendees, over 100 booths, giveaways, AND free prize raffles. The expo is open through Sunday and features your Emcee, Miss GayDayS 2014 – Harmony Breeze!
GayDayS® Adult 18+ Expo
Wyndham Orlando Resort - Lemon & Orange Ballroom Thu, Fri, and Sat at 11am to 9pm, and Sun 10am to 4pm Enjoy a selection of Adult Vendors that are part of one the
largest LGBT Vendor Expos in the World!
Those Legendary Pool Parties
Free for hotel guests. Tix: Daytime (10aam to 5pm) $25 advance/$35 at event; Evening (5pm to 3am) $35/$45
Thursday, August 15
10am–4pm - DJ Scott Roberts 4pm- 10pm – DJ Aracely Manterola 10pm – 3am – DJ Chris Adams
Friday, August 16
10am–4pm - DJ Sushiman 4pm- 10pm – DJ Chomper 10pm – 3am – DJ Chi Chi Larue
Saturday, August 17
10am–4pm - DJ Chomper 4pm- 10pm – Sushiman 10pm – 3am – DJ Aracely Manterola
Sunday, August 18
10am–4pm - DJ Chris Adams 4pm - 10pm –DJ Aracely Manterola 10pm – 3am – DJ Chomper
Extra-Special GayDayS Events
Official GayDayS Kick-off Party Tuesday, August 13
Parliament House 6:30pm – 10pm Inaugurate the 29th Annual Official GayDayS Orlando 2019 in style with vivacious vibes and LIVE entertainment at the Parliament House's Footlight Theater. General Admission: $10 advance, and $20 at the door. VIP Tickets: $50 in advance, and $75 at the door (includes open bar and light bites). Also includes free admission into Parliament House club after Kick Off Party ends.
Taste of GayDayS Thursday, August 15
Wyndham Orlando Resort - Palms Ballroom 6pm to 10pm One of the tastiest annual events
returns! Enjoy samplings from local restaurants, exciting beverages, and live entertainment! Note: This is not intended to be a dinner, just light bites and drinks. DJ LU-S spinning.
Drag Bingo with Chantel Reshae Friday August 16
Wyndham Orlando Resort - Palms Ballroom 5:30pm to 7 pm Family friendly event Drag Bingo! Join all the fun of bingo and all of the fun of a Drag Show mixed together. Tickets are $15 in advance and $25 at the door.
XXX Porn Bingo with ChiChi LaRue Friday August 16
Wyndham Orlando Resort - Palms Ballroom 7:30pm to 9 pm Famous adult film director and resident GayDayS DJ Chi Chi LaRue will be hosting this dirty good time of Porn Bingo. Join Chi Chi LaRue and her boys, Wesley Woods and Colby Tucker for a good time…. See what happens when O-69 is called!! Tickets are $20 in advance and $30 at the door.
Miss GayDayS Pageant! Saturday, August 17
Wyndham Orlando Resort - Palms Ballroom 6:30pm – 10pm Who will have you under their spell in 2019? Watch these queens bewitch and beguile until only one remains! Hosted by ChiChi Larue and CoCo Montrese. The theme for 2019 is Broadway! The only sad part of the event is that Chantel Reshae will have to give up her title, as her reign was amazing! Tickets are $20 in advance, $30 at the door, and VIP Tables are $175.
Mr. GayDays Leather Competition Sunday, August 18
Wyndham Orlando Resort - Palms Ballroom – 2pm -4pm. Who will take home the sash and patch this year at the Mr. GayDayS Leather Competition? They'll get to represent GayDayS at various events and prides in the coming year and go to IML next year! Judges this year are: IML 2019 Jack Thompson from San Francisco, Fionn Scott, Mr Leather Ireland, Denny Morelock, 2018 Mr GayDayS Leather and Aaron Sanford-Wetherell AKA Sister Itza Cameltoe. Tickets are $20 in advance, and $30 at the door.
Your Theme Park Itinerary
Thursday, August 15 9am–9pm. Walt Disney World's Animal Kingdom A zoological theme park covering 580 acres. Check out the all-new Rivers of Light and Pandora: The World of Avatar. Go on a safari, meet your favorite film characters, and thrill to the rides.
9am–6pm. SeaWorld
Enjoy live shows, free concerts, and, of course, up-close encounters with animals. Rollercoaster fiends should be sure to check out Mako.
Friday, August 16 9am–9pm. Walt Disney World's Hollywood Studios
You're a star, baby! Check out the all-new Star Wars Launch Bay as well as classic attractions like Beauty and the Beast: Live on Stage and The Tower of Terror.
9am–9pm. Islands of Adventure.
A park full of thrills and ways to cool down. Ride the all-new Skull Island: Reign of Kong, The Incredible Hulk Coaster, or visit The Wizarding World of Harry Potter!
Saturday, August 17 9am–9pm. Walt Disney World's Magic Kingdom
Best of the Rest section: Orlando's Finest
9am–9pm. Universal Studios Florida.
Southern Nights invites everyone to stay local, drink local and play local during the Days of Gays, as they present one of the most beloved contestants of all time from RuPaul's Drag Race, the one and only Detox. She will be performing during Flex Fridays on August 16 and then again for Girl, the Party on Saturday, August 17. For VIP Bottle Service please email info@southernnights.com
From Thunder Mountain to Space Mountain, this park continues to thrill guests young and old. Check out new attractions and shows: Mickey's Royal Friendship Faire, The Seven Dwarfs' Mine Train, and Muppets Present: Great Moments in American History. The spellbinding finale is the all-new fireworks show, Happily Ever After.
Go behind the scenes — or beyond the screen — and leap right into the action of your favorite movies. Battle alongside Optimus Prime and Bumblebee in Transformers: The Ride—3D, take The Simpsons Ride through Springfield, and join Gru and his Minions at Minion Mayhem!
Sunday, August 18 9am–9pm. Walt Disney World's EPCOT
Enjoy the exciting rides of Future World; Test Track and Mission: Space, and the newly reimagined Soarin'! Or just drink your way around the globe at the World Showcase.
7:15am–5:30pm. Discovery Cove
Get your wetsuit ready... and dive into paradise! Discovery Cove offers an intimate, resort-style experience. Interact with dolphins, snorkel with rays, and feed exotic birds. Or just take it easy, grab a bite, and lounge by the tropical river.
Southern Nights 375 S Bumby Ave., Orlando Friday & Saturday, August 16 and 17
Stonewall Bar Orlando 741 W Church St, Orlando Saturday, August 17
Doors 9pm, show @ midnight. 21+, valet parking. Amor, Stonewall's weekly upscale Latin extravaganza gets supercharged for the Days of Gays where they invite everyone to come out as they welcome the Queen of the Love Songs Live in Concert Yaire & Lissy Esrella at 12:30am, directly following the midnight drag show starring: Yeisa Jovovich, Rochelle Mon Ché ri, Jasmine Jimenez and Lisa Lane. Admission is $10 from 9pm to 10pm; $15 from 10pm to 11pm and $20 from 11pm to 2am.
hot shots photos by tony fowler
Cristoph’s Tampa Bear Soup
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Rainy weekend? The idea of giving parts of your home a spruce is a good one, but who wants to live with endless construction, to say nothing of the contractor who suddenly discovers a problem that is going to up the total cost to 20% more than the estimate? There are plenty of projects you can undertake yourself to improve your living space, making it more functional and appealing to the eye. And you can get these done in a single weekend. What's not to love? Bookshelf Bar Cart for the Living Room or Den. If you've always wanted a snazzy way to store your drinks and fancy glassware, ready to impress your guests when you offer them a libation, this project is an easy one. All you need is an old bookshelf—not more than 40” high—some latex paint, four caster wheels and a handle to move it around with, or two: one for each side of the top of the cart. Just paint the unit and when it's dry, add the wheels to the base and handles on the top. Once you've put your out your bottles, your ice bucket, as well as the fancy highball glasses you got years ago but never use, you will have the perfect little bar cart to entertain from. Play Space – No matter how much you'd love to make yourself believe that toys will stay in play rooms, they don't:) Instead of the constant battle, why not build a play space? With the addition of some simple shelving and a few bins of your choice—wood, plastic, clear, etc.— you can turn an unused corner of the living room into an organized play area. While building shelves is quick and easy, there are also kit shelving and some fully built shelving units as well if building is too time consuming or not in your wheelhouse. Update Bathrooms – While replacing faucets is a bit more complicated, it can still be done in a weekend with minimal
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cost and difficulty even for a novice. New fixtures can be purchased at any home improvement store and replacing those can both update a bathroom and give it a completely new look. Combine that with a few new towels, bath mats, and voila! A Custom Closet You Can Install Yourself - The ability to buy and install a custom closet, all with easy to assemble parts that are made from high quality plywood, and will last a lifetime sounds like a unicorn but Modular Closets has a solution for just about every space you can imagine.
From a double sized bedroom closet to an open space below the staircase, there are predesigned and custom solutions with shelves, dovetail drawers, hanging bars and even tie / belt racks that you can put together and install in no time, without the expense of hiring someone to design and install it for you. Not a Fan of Baby or Pet Gates? A Dutch Door Might be Just the Ticket - Dutch doors are the split doors that are on separate hinges, so that you can swing open the top while keeping the bottom firmly closed. If you have a space where you want to be able to see what's going on inside, for either kids or pets, a dutch door lets you do that while still keeping everyone safe and secure. You'll need four hinges for your door—whether you are reusing an old one or getting a new one—evenly spaced so that there are two for each half. Then you saw the door in half, sanding and painting to finish it. All you need to do is hang the two halves, with appropriate hardware for opening and securing them, and voila: dutch doors. Give Doors and Windows a Fresh Look -
Add new curtains or blinds to your windows. Bring in fun, colorful patterns and sheer textures that enhance the illusion of space and increase the amount of daylight in a room. You can mix and match solids with patterns, as well as different colors, to bring a rooms personality to life. Paint your doors a color that will help brighten the place up. Even paint the trim around your windows and doors. After you finish painting the door, add a nice wreath to give that finishing touch. Add a Splash to the Kitchen - Or a kitchen backsplash. Go modern or even do minimal. Both are trending, and both can give a fresh and nice look to your home. There are many backsplashes to choose form to fit almost any budget. A great backsplash helps to keep the kitchen looking neat and welcoming. Update the Laundry Room for Beauty and Function - Updated laundry rooms are becoming one of the spaces that people look for when they're buying a property. It's not just about having a couple of machines in the deepest, darkest corner of the basement anymore. With that in mind, you can spruce yours by adding shelving, cupboards, a really visually appealing wallpaper behind the machines and storage hooks for an ironing board, iron and more. Even better? Secure a folding table to the wall that can be folded down flat when not in use: that way, you're not using more space for furniture, but the table makes the laundry room more functional and useful.
Give Key Furniture Pieces a Face Lift Looking to replace chipped, fading dresser, or worn-out table seats? Rather than forking over a couple hundred dollars to buy new furniture, turn old furniture into a weekend DIY project. Repaint, repolish, and restain your favorite coffee table, hope chest, office desk, etc. Choose fun, bright colors that make a room pop with edginess and excitement. Take it a step further with stencils, tile patterns, and glass mosaic. Add a Library or Reading Nook Celebrate your favorite literature by setting up a calm, quiet library or reading nook for you and your family to enjoy. This area can be as big or little as space allows it, taking up an entire room or a storage bench under a window. Along with standing and wall bookshelves, add a comfy seating arrangement: a sofa, a couple arm chairs, bean bags, or indoor hammock. Don't forget proper lighting! Otherwise, you run the risk straining your eyes and causing headaches. Rugs, house plants, candles, and other decor create a cozy atmosphere in you library or reading nook. Replace Old Outlet and Light Switch Faceplates - The little details can make all the difference in a room. A simple, weekend DIY project that will spruce up your house is switching out dirty, cheap outlet and light switch faceplates with new, durable ones. Aim
for faceplates made of metal, tile, and polished wood. If you're feeling a bit artsy, grout together colorful glass, pebbles, or other materials for beautiful mosaic additions to your walls. Clear the Clutter - From baskets to bins there are all kinds of neat ways to clear the clutter and make a difference in the way your home looks. Utilize shelves and drawers. Be sure to give each item it's own space. Awesome Accents - Create a warm and inviting space with some great, yet inexpensive accents for your home. From lamps (even changing out the shades on some lamps) to different wall hangings, your home can be warm an inviting and look like a whole new space. Accent rugs, throw pillows, and even vases of flowers can throw in pops of color. Whether you do something easy from adding a backsplash in the kitchen or updating wall colors in the bedroom to building new shelves and storage space for all your clothes and accessories, there are projects galore that can go a long way to giving your home a little face lift, without the grand expense and fuss that goes into major surgery. Have a little fun and plan your next project: you'll enjoy the satisfaction you'll feel after a job well done.
Home organization expert for modularclosets.com, Marty Basher, offers these tips on DIY projects that can be done in a weekend. Modular Closets are high quality and easy to design closet systems that you can order, assemble and install, in no time at all. Visit the website at modularclosets.com
hot bodies
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By Tom Bonanti
How to Combine Weight Training & Doing Cardio for maximum gains!
Without a doubt, resistance training with free weights is the surest way to build quality muscle. The problem is, you may not burn the calories you need to torch fat and stay lean. You need to do cardiovascular training to build stamina and burn calories, but you may sacrifice some muscle in the process. Did you know that there are effective, dynamic ways to combine weights and cardio to achieve maximum results? The following techniques will help you melt away fat, build muscle and rev-up your metabolism swiftly and efficiently! Focus on your workout, eliminate distractions. Multi-tasking is helpful at work, but texting, e-mailing, and watching TV while you're on the recumbent bike or
lifting weights can detract from the intensity of the physical effort required for a successful workout. Unless your workout program is on your phone, put it away and pay attention to your breathing, heart rate, muscle contractions, stretching and most especially your proper form when lifting! Give it everything you've got and then some. The more muscles you use, the more calories and oxygen you burn. Incorporate squats, dead-lifts, military presses and flat bench barbell or dumbbell chest presses into your routine. When you are power walking or on a cardio machine, grab some weights and do curls and shoulder raises. As you work lower body, move arms and torso and make them feel it, too. Let go of the rails on the elliptical or treadmill so that your core muscles must work harder to keep you stable and in motion.
Think and work outside the box. Doing the same old thing all the time is boring and after a spell, results will diminish. Gravity is a great calorie burner, when you walk, bike or run, do it at an incline. Mix up doing weights with some weight bearing exercises like push-ups, jump squats and dips. Jump rope, jog around the building, or hop on a cardio machine between sets to give an extra calorie burning jolt to ordinary weight training. Drink more water, burn more calories! Besides refreshing and cooling you, hydrating with plenty of icy cold water can bump up your metabolism by about 5% as your body works to warm the fluid. Coffee is the best pre- workout
drink. Besides revving up your metabolism, caffeine gives you a renewed sense of well- being. Visualization is a proven technique whereby you picture the muscle group you are working in the mirror and in your head. Then with perfect form, execute each rep of each set focusing upon the muscle contractions and stretches. Besides visualization, many guys report achieving great results by training with a buddy or partner who is just a little fitter and stronger; that little bit of friendly competition can push you to work that much harder! Tom Bonanti is a certified fitness trainer and massage therapist (MA#40288) with his own one on one studio pumpnincgym.com in Ft. Lauderdale. Contact trainertomb@aol.com with questions or to set up an appointment today.
frivolist
By Mikey Rox
6 Ways to Do Summer Naked! When swim briefs are your go-to gay summer attire, why wear anything at all? Stay naked with these fun, in-the-flesh warm-weather activities and getaways.
Nude Beaches
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My first introduction to naked summer a few years ago was on Gunnison Beach in New Jersey's Sandy Hook State Park – located on the northern-most tip of the Jersey Shore – which, on clear days, provides plenty of seclusion, sunshine and a not-too-distant view of downtown Manhattan. While this private stretch of sand skews straight and toward those who engage in a swingers “lifestyle” (though sexual activity is prohibited here, and there are police present to keep things kosher), free birds of all ages flock to this birthday-suit bastion, with the gayest among them occupying the southern quarter of the isolated oceanfront. I've also dropped trou on South Florida's Haulover Beach, where LGBTQ beachgoers are greater in number and, well, much more “Miami.” Other top nude beaches in the United States include Maui's Little Beach; Rooster Rock Beach in Oregon; Hippi Hollow Beach in Austin, Texas; and San Francisco's Baker Beach.
Fitness
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Naked group exercise is on the rise all over the country thanks to classes like in-the-buff hot yoga that gained popularity after big press in major cities like New York and L.A. Now you can find all kinds of ways to rock out with your c*ck out: There's high-intensity interval training at Hanson Fitness in Manhattan, co-ed naked pilates where available, and a growing number of nude running and cycling events, like this dirty dozen compiled by Thrillist.
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Resorts
To toast my bare buns in an amenity-filled social setting, I prefer the Grand Resort and Spa in Fort Lauderdale – spring for the penthouse if you've got summer vacay cash to burn – but there are several other options for hide-andpeek staycays worth the splurge, including INNdulge Palm Springs, Island House in Key West, and New Orleans' Green House Inn.
Camping
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Recently my boyfriend and I experienced our first nude camping weekend at The Woods Campground in Lehighton, Penn., and while the great outdoors and exposing everything our daddies gave us wasn't always conducive to one another (like letting it all hang out in front of a crackling fire), it was a liberating 48 hours of excitement, adventure and even romance. This sprawling mobile community, consisting of permanent seasonal residents along with visitors like us, features pool and dance parties; site-specific social events, including drink crawls; let-it-all-hang-out woodland hikes; body painting; and a little nighttime naughtiness in the shadows if you're up for it (there's a place on campus called the Head Shed, and you can make of that what you will.) Demographic is roughly 95% gay men, but there were a smattering of lesbians and hetero couples. Jones Pond in New York, Whispering Oaks in Tennessee, and Pennsylvania's Hillside Campgrounds also offer clothingoptional camping for the LGBTQ community.
Cruises
Festivals
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There's only one multi-day nude festival in the United States – the Northeast Naturist Festival at Empire Haven Nudist Park in Moravia, New York (July 31 to Aug. 5) – but you also can take your barethe-skin-you're-in pursuits abroad by attending Toronto's Body Fest, featuring nude Olympics, stand-up comedy, fire-spinning (maybe cover your crotch for this one), and a dance party, on Aug. 9.
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Where there's a will, there's a wang – when it comes to naked gaycations, anyway. Nude cruising is no exception. Happy Gay Travel provides a comprehensive list of gay sailing holidays around the world, with suns-out-buns-out visits to exotic Ibiza and Formentera Spain, island hopping in Croatia, and relaxing au natural in Greece and Indonesia.
Mikey Rox is an award-winning journalist and LGBT lifestyle expert whose work has been published in more than 100 outlets across the world. He spends his time writing from the beach with his dog Jaxon. Connect with Mikey on Instagram @mikeyrox
hot shots photos by tony fowler
Southern Nights Tampa Sharon Needles