CREDITS
Jan.21 - Feb.3, 2021
��� � Publisher Peter Jackson
Peter@HotspotsMedia.com
Associate Publisher Scott Holland
Scott@HotspotsMedia.com
Business Manager Alyson Thomas
Alyson@HotspotsMedia.com
Art Director Frank Mendez
Frank@HotspotsMedia.com
Classifieds Manager Anthony Verrico
Classifieds@HotspotsMedia.com
Graphics
Graphics@HotspotsMedia.com
Maria Espinal Sales Team
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Senior Account Reps Anthony Verrico & Rich LoPrimo National Advertising Rivendell Media
212-242-6863 • sales@rivendellmedia.com
Writers Carlos Marrero Scott Holland | Ian Maloney D'Anne Witkowski Chris Azzopardi | Oscar Ambulo Mikey Rox | Romeo San Vicente Photographers J.R. Davis | Scott Holland Logistics J.R. Davis
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4
From the PUBLISHER
ELECTION EDITION
Digital Content Manager
Matt@HotspotsMedia.com
Matt Tesoriero
Welcome to the Election Edition of Hotspots, probably the most important issue of the year (and our lives for that matter). I don't know about you but, between Covid-19 and what feels like four years of political campaigning, I'm spent. I remember the day I watched Donald and Melania Trump come down that escalator at Trump Tower and, I know many people are hoping that there is a reverse button on that very same escalator. The bottom line is that it is up to us to decide if the president should get four more years in the White House or, get sent back to Trump Tower to sort out his tax returns. In this edition of Hotspots, you will find it filled with helpful information about election issues, (because you can't get enough) candidates' positions and ballot recommendations for all who want to revel in the drama of voting on election day. By now you have heard that Pope
Francis said that: “Homosexua people have the right to be in civil union� Wow, talk about a 'come to Jesus' moment and I mean no disrespect. And yet, i completely inverse reality, wit the installation of Amy Coney Barrett on the Supreme Court two-thirds of the justices on th highest court in the land will b opponents of marriage equali As such, I hope you enjoy the George Freeman article which timely to say the least. Remember that complacen cost Hillary Clinton the electio four years ago and complacen can literally kill you if you let y guard down and forget to soci distance. As a husband, father and grandfather, (yes, I'm old) implore you to step up, vote a have your voices heard while staying safe at all times. We w get through this. Afterall, we i the LGBTQ+ community have faced many challenges before we always rise up and bitch-sl them back down until they ris again. Take care and love one another.
O N T H E INSIDE
January 21 - February 3, 2021
Bianca Del Rio Hotspots Exclusive Interview
Cover Photo by Denise Malone What’s Hot | Scott Holland’s Guide to Events Feature | Creating Change 2021 Workshops and Events Announced Hot Bodies | Achieve a Superman Metabolism in 2021 Deep Inside Hollywood Feature | Top 5 Ways Pets Can Make Our 2021 New Year’s Resolution Stick! Food for Thought | Noodle Station Feature | Equality Garden Club Delays Annual “A Tropical Plant Fair” Feature | Our Fund Foundation Provides $100,000 in Grants to Arts & Culture Pix Pages | Art Walk Wilton Manors, Johnsons, thePUB, and Rosies Bar & Grill
MARKETPLACE
DIRECTORY OF LGBT & LGBT-FRIENDLY BUSINESSES
Hot Bodies Achieve Superman Metabolism in 2021
RuPaul’s Drag Race UK
By: Scott Holland
H
ave no fear, because 2021 is here! Voss Events is excited to announce a brandnew experience for drag fans: Drive 'N Drag Saves 2021, starring Bianca Del Rio. Join Bianca and the super queens of Ru-Paul's Drag Race on their mission to save the world from the debacle that was 2020. “Suit up, ind your sidekick, and come along for one helluva new adventure as we werq to rid the USA of COVID and Trump,� says Bianca.
Joining Bianca Del Rio in Drive 'N Drag Saves 2021 will be the super
galactic Aquaria; the luminous Asia O'Hara; the incredible she-hulk Kameron Michaels; the dazzling Naomi Smalls; the winged warrior Plastique and the seductive villain, Violet Chachki. The outdoor concert series will begin in Atlanta on February 19th but hits Tampa on February 34&24 at West ield Brandon, and then comes to Fort Lauderdale on Feb 26&27 at the West ield Broward.
interview:
Since I spoke to you last, right after you won Season 6 of Drag Race, you have traveled the world for 7 year. What has been your favorite cities/states/cou ntries, and why? Honestly, there are far too many to name. However, there are particular things I like of many places…Of course New Orleans is “We're excited to home, so it will always hold a special place hit the road again in 2021 with our drive-in for me. I also love London, Amsterdam and productions,” exclaims the show's producer, Canada for the shopping. I also love my new Brandon Voss. “Our wildly popular stage shows have proven the drag show must go on even through home in Palm Springs, and re lecting on a pandemic! Drive 'N Drag Saves 2021 will be a those places, and hoping in the near future being able to travel again. inal look back at the awful year that was 2020 and whisk drag fans to a more hopeful and Speaking of traveling, Prior to Covid, what brighter future. The show has been adapted did you do to relax? to be even more interactive than previous I don't do well with time off, as I enjoy the productions and will light up parking lots rat race and getting out there and working. I with a new kind of drag extravaganza.” like a tight schedule and keeping on the In Drive 'N Drag Saves 2021, move. I was supposed to take 8 weeks off attendees enjoy the live theatrical prior to Covid to get my tonsils off, but then experience from the safety of inside Covid hit. or beside their cars with festive dé cor, concert style stage and What did you do during the quarantine? lighting, Jumbotron screens and Decorated my new place. I moved here sound pumped outside from the about a week before lockdown. I have stage and through every car via become very savvy shopping online. FM transmitters. Food and beverages are available via What is the best gift you ever got from a Gourmet Food Trucks fan? and limited-edition I have gotten some crazy shit, but the merchandise things I like the most are the fan art. Some of featuring your them are so talented and some of them have favorite queens become T shirt designs for me. will be available, too! How do you not let Social media affect It was a you? pleasure to, once I take the compliments along with the again, sit down insults and they go out the window for me. It with Bianca, after doesn't have an effect on my life. I don't let 7 years, for this that bother me. exclusive Hotspots
You have done TV, Movies, and live performances. Do you have a favorite? I just love live performance as that's where I started. The audiences have gotten larger and a little more awake. My appreciation for an audience comes from where I came from.
Your 2 dogs are adorable (follow Bianca on Instagram and you will agree), tell me about them? Samson will turn 16 and Didi is about to turn 15. They have been with me since New York, but now in their elderly year they are out here in Palm Springs. I felt guilty leaving them so much, but I have a great dog sitter. This COVID-19 time has been great to reconnect with them. Describe yourself in 3 words? Clown, cunt, reliable.
What should the South Florida audiences
expect from “Drive 'N Drag Saves 2021, starring Bianca Del Rio?� I am just looking forward to seeing an audience. Brandon Voss and I have known each other for years and I am happy to work with him and excited about getting ready to perform. I am also looking forward to seeing the other gals as we have been in COVID-19 for a year and the years prior I was touring by myself. I love those nasty whores from other seasons of Drag Race.
For more information on Bianca, follow her at: Instagram.com/thebiancadelrio
Drive 'N Drag Saves 2021 tickets are available now on VossEvents.com. $69 per car for two people. 100 VIP spots, closest to the stage, are also available for $150 per spot. Additional passengers are $25 each. All general admission spots are assigned upon arrival.
Art Walk Wilton Manors
Photos: JR Davis
WHAT’S HOT
By Scott Holland
What’s HOT JANUARY 7 - 20
Last Friday, we decided to do a Wilton Manors romp and went to Rosie's for dinner, and as usual the food was delish. It was so nice to see things getting back to “normal.” Afterwards, we decided to go by The Pub for their new Ebony and Ivory show starring Velvet LeNore (Miss Noche Latina 2020/21) and Nicolette, and what a fun time this was. After the show, we went by Johnson's to see all the sexy dancers. It was great to see Matt & Chris and ran into my buddy Howard Andrew there. The best part
Johnsons
was, all of these places, and all of the other businesses I have been to, are taking masks and
social distancing seriously! On Saturday afternoon, it was time for the monthly
thePUB
Rosies Bar and Grill
most talented artists I have seen. For more information, or to register to be an artist go to: Awwm.org. uTHURSDAY JAN 21
Miami Beach Culture Crawl Art Exhibit: Winter - A Sound Picnic by Frozen Music from 6-9pm. Frozen Music creates and performs artificial sound environments from field recordings and electronics signals that feature bird calls, insects and amphibian noises found in South Florida yards and gardens as well as in remote areas of the Everglades. Its electronic sound installations blend into, and interact with, the natural environment in outdoor spaces. They aim to activate and interact with the surrounding environment to make us aware of aspects of the acoustical nature of a given site not easily available to our naked ears. "Winter" will be performed in conjunction with the Miami Beach Culture Crawl for one night only between 6pm - 9pm. Stop for a quick stroll, or for extended periods of time,
in which case we recommend you bring a blanket. The Palm Beach Improv presents Actor/comedian Jeremy Piven from today through Saturday, January 23. Jeremy is best known for his role as Ari Gold in the hit HBO series Entourage, which aired for eight seasons; led to three Emmy Awards and a Golden Globes win. He can be seen in the upcoming feature film Crabs in a Bucket opposite Oscar winner Bruce Dern and Orange is the New Black star Taryn Manning. He starred as Harry Gordon Selfridge in the critically acclaimed series Mr. Selfridge 2013-2016. In 2015, Piven reprised the fanfavorite role in the Entourage feature film released by Warner Bros. Tickets are $30 at Palmbeachimprov.com
The Miami Improv presents Preacher Lawson from today through Sunday, January 24. Preacher Lawson moved 20 times before the age of 10, but if you asked him what city he's from he'd say Orlando, FL because that's where he grew as a comedian. Preacher is best known for his appearance on season 12 of NBC's hit series, America's Got Talent (2017) where he made it to the final rounds. Based off his stellar performance in season 12 Preacher was invited to
compete on America's Got Talent: The Champions (2019) and Britan's Got Talent: The Champions (2019) where he advanced to the finale after he received the most votes from the fans. Preacher was the host of the Facebook Watch series World's Most Amazing Dogs (2019) with George Lopez and Lisa Vanderpump and has built a following on YouTube of over 500,000 subscribers. In 2019 Preacher shot his first stand-up special which premiered on BET+ and continues to perform at soldout venues around the country. Currently, Preacher can be seen starring in the NBC series Connecting and as a judge on the new Nickelodeon competition show Unleashed. Tickets are $25 at Miamiimprov.com uFRIDAY JAN 22
Twist presents special guest, the one and only Sunny Dee-Lite performing at 10pm sharp. Sunny was originally from south Florida but moved many years ago and now
Photo: Wikimedia.org
Wilton Manors Artwalk, which once again was a huge success featuring some of the
resides in Jacksonville. Check out this beauty at a rare south
Photo Wikimedia.org - Mynameisjoshua
Photo: Wikimedia.org - https://www.flickr.com/photos/superfestivals/48480559301
Florida appearance. The night will also feature the sounds of DJ Sushiman. The Broward Center for the Performing Arts presents: Rob Schneider: Backlot Live at the
Broward Center, located at the Lillian S. Wells Backstage Parking Lot, experience a oneof-a-kind evening of entertainment under the stars. A household name and a bona-fide comedy star, Rob Schneider is well known for his trademark blend of character and comedic acting and has become one of the most popular touring acts in comedy. He created and stars in the Netflix docu-series 'Real Rob', which focuses on the day-to-day hijinks of Rob's life. Schneider first came to prominence on NBC's 'Saturday Night Live.' He starred in some of the top comedy features of the past 20 years including 'Grown
Ups,' 'You Don't Mess With The Zohan,' 'Big Daddy' and 'The Waterboy.' Rob also starred in the movie 'Deuce Bigalow: Male Gigolo,' which was the second highest grossing DVD in the US in 2000, along with 'The Hot Chick' and 'The Animal.' Rob is also a three time Emmy winner as part of SNL's writing staff. This event contains adult language or content. Face coverings are required at all times unless actively consuming food and beverages in designated seating areas. Two shows at 7 and 9:30pm. To purchase tickets, go to BrowardCenter.org
Boca Black Box (8221 Glades Road #10, Boca Raton) presents Sal 'The Voice' Valentinetti. Heidi Klum's unforgettable 2016 Golden Buzzer recipient and finalist of America's Got Talent, is an Italian-American crooner known best for his flawless vocals, larger than life personality, and his heart of gold. Born August 26, 1995, Sal was raised in the small town of Bethpage, New York where he still resides today. From a very young age Sal was influenced by his grandmother to love the musical genius of the classic crooner sounds of Dean
Martin, Tony Bennett and Frank Sinatra. In 2016, Sal made his debut on Season 11 of the NBC hit show 'America's Got Talent.' That night, The 20-year-old college student went from delivering Pizzas for his cousin's restaurant, to delivering what's considered one of the best performances in AGT history. Before long, the world would come to know and admire him as 'Sal the Voice'. Since racking up over 350 million views worldwide with his captivating AGT audition, the celebrated charismatic crooner has been invited to appear in hundreds of sold out solo performances on stages around the world. The show starts at 7pm and tickets range from $47 to $90 (meet and greet package) at Bocablackbox.com uSATURDAY JAN 23
The Manor complex presents the sspectacular Debut of DJ/Producer &
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Rupaul Drag Race Superstar Rupaul Drag Race Superstar uTHURSDAY JAN JAN2828 uTHURSDAY Nina Flowers. In the Latin Nina Flowers. In the Latin room, Noche Latina Saturdays room, Noche Latina Saturdays Comedian Pam Ann is back Comedian Pam Ann is back features the sounds of sexy DJ in the air with her brand new features the sounds of sexy DJ in the air with her brand new Duniel along with Latin divas show PAMDEMIC! Have you Duniel along with Latin divas show PAMDEMIC! Have you performing. Doors now open performing. Doors now open at 10pm with no cover before at 10pm with no cover before 11pm, and only $10 thereafter 11pm, and only $10 thereafter (18-20 - $15 all night). The (18-20 - $15 all night). The Manor adheres to all CDC Manor adheres to all CDC guidelines with temperature guidelines with temperature checks art the door and masks checks art the door and masks required for entry. required for entry.
Rose & Alfred Miniaci Rose & Alfred Miniaci Performing Arts Center (3100 Performing Arts Center (3100 Ray Ferraro Jr Blvd, Davie) Ray Ferraro Jr Blvd, Davie) presents Reza Edge of Illusion presents Reza Edge of Illusion at 8pm. They invite you back at 8pm. They invite you back inside the theater, under a inside the theater, under a County approved physically County approved physically distanced seating plan per distanced seating plan per CDC guidelines. Reza is CDC guidelines. Reza is recognized as one of today's recognized as one of today's most highly sought-after most highly sought-after entertainers in the illusion entertainers in the illusion industry, delivering industry, delivering innovative, engaging and innovative, engaging and spectacular performances spectacular performances worldwide! Reza's recent tour worldwide! Reza's recent tour and television appearances and television appearances have astounded over 30 have astounded over 30 million viewers from across million viewers from across the World on networks such the World on networks such as MTV, A&E, The CW, PBS, as MTV, A&E, The CW, PBS, Reelz, CX, Fuji, and Reelz, CX, Fuji, and Telemundo, to name a few. Telemundo, to name a few. Reza's newest show "Edge of Reza's newest show "Edge of Illusion," is a groundIllusion," is a groundbreaking, grand scale breaking, grand scale production mingling production mingling interactive comedy and magic interactive comedy and magic with cutting-edge, jawwith cutting-edge, jawdropping mega illusions. Reza dropping mega illusions. Reza is intriguing, engaging, and is intriguing, engaging, and captivating. He isn't just a captivating. He isn't just a magician...he is an magician...he is an entertainer! For tickets or entertainer! For tickets or more information, go to: more information, go to: BrowardCenter.org. BrowardCenter.org.
missed flying? Missed delays? missed flying? Missed delays? Missed the sound of jet Missed the sound of jet engines and the smell of jet engines and the smell of jet fuel? Miss the smell of First fuel? Miss the smell of First Class? Missed being verbally Class? Missed being verbally abused over the Atlantic? abused over the Atlantic? Then this show is for you! Then this show is for you! Pam Ann international air Pam Ann international air hostess to the stars and hostess to the stars and beyond has been grounded in beyond has been grounded in Florida due to a nasty bug Florida due to a nasty bug going around but she can still going around but she can still take you places you've never take you places you've never been before. Join Pam been before. Join Pam Ann as she serves up Ann as she serves up more than salty nuts more than salty nuts and a jab in the arm. and a jab in the arm. Nothing can flatten Nothing can flatten her curves and don't her curves and don't Touch the Trolley Touch the Trolley bitches! This will be bitches! This will be Pam Ann's first live Pam Ann's first live performances in over performances in over 10 months. Pam is 10 months. Pam is beside herself at the beside herself at the thought of having a thought of having a live human audience live human audience and very excited to be and very excited to be
sharing this moment with you sharing this moment with you at her new home and family at at her new home and family at Hunters Nightclub Wilton Hunters Nightclub Wilton Manors, premiering on Manors, premiering on tonight and then February tonight and then February
4th, 11th and 18th, boarding 4th, 11th and 18th, boarding time at 7pm/Takeoff at time at 7pm/Takeoff at 7:30pm. 7:30pm. uFRIDAY JAN JAN2929 uFRIDAY
The Adrienne Arsht Center The Adrienne Arsht Center (@arshtcenter) is pleased to (@arshtcenter) is pleased to announce a new lineup of inannounce a new lineup of inperson performances which person performances which will be presented as part of will be presented as part of the was formed in Miami for the was formed in Miami for the love of playing soul music the love of playing soul music
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and New Orleans Funk. Guitarist Nick Tannura and drummer Aaron Glueckauf joined forces with organist and keyboard wiz Brian Robertson to create an outlet for their joined passion. Since then, the band has continued to push its envelope and blend influences to create a niche amongst organ trios. Since its first release, Welcome to the Neighborhood, the Lemon City Trio has shown a taste for cinematic guitar textures, hip-hop grooves and slinky Cajun beats. Lemon City Trio's newest studio album, Cliffs, was released in December 2020 and is available on all streaming platforms. The show starts at 7:30pm, and tickets are $15. For tickets or more information, go to Arshtcenter.org
MSE Entertainments and Empire Stage present An ongoing weekly variety show with different acts each week starting tonight and going through February 28. Welcome to thier vibrant, risqué variety show world, where you will see a 70minute blend of Burlesque, Comedy and Drag Queens. Every week they will have a different mix of entertainers, and some repeats too. From comedians and jugglers to magicians and singers, don't miss your chance to see a scandalizing mix of talent in one night. It's time for you to enjoy some live entertainment and a well needed night out to have some laughs and be truly entertained by talent that has
performed all over the world and local talent as well. Due to Covid restrictions: they have very limited seating of 25 seats all spaced out for safe distancing. Masks will be required, and you will be given touchless temperature test at the door. Those experiencing an elevated temperature or COVID -19 symptoms will not be allowed entrance and instructed on how to arrange for a ticket exchange or refund. Tickets are $35, but use promo code “SAVE” For $10 Off by calling 954-678-1496 or by going to: empirestage.com
Just For Fans Raises $25,00 for BLM JustFor.fans (JFF) today announced that the adult social platform has raised more than $25,000 in support of the Black Lives Matter (BLM) movement over the past year. Through the company's Charitable Giving Program, many of the site's models and influencers have
BLACK LIVES MATTER
raised funding on their pages since July to raise social awareness while prioritizing philanthropy and the power of generosity. “By raising over $25,000 for Black Lives Matter, our
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models have shown that their successes on JFF translate directly to the success of those members of our community in need,” said JFF company founder Dominic Ford. The JustFor.fans Giving Program prioritizes the concept of equality for all while highlighting the importance of social good; the company continues in its quest in 2021 to create and maintain a strong, powerful social standing both within and outside of the JFF community. Since its launch in 2018, the online fan site has grown into a compassionate community that brings together studios, agents, photographers, and affiliates in order to generate more revenue for its patrons, with charitable activities that support JFF users.
Key Wests Headdress Ball The Ball was originally rescheduled for February 20, has been moved to the fall and its traditional position as part of the Fantasy Fest Celebration on Thursday, October 28. Patrons who have purchased tickets for the February 20th performance will have their tickets honored at the October 28th performance If you need a refund, they are happy to do that. For more information call 305-294-4603.
Creating Change 2021 Workshops and events announced: Politics, Religion, Sexuality and more
The organizers of the Creating Change Conference today announced the full slate of workshop and other sessions organized for the 33rd annual conference. From activism to faith to fundraising, with some timely twists on popular workshops like “Sex in the Times of COVID,” the Creating Change conference will have programs of interest to diverse activists and cover a lot of ground in this unique time for LGBTQ+ communities. Every year the Creating Change team has curated a diverse, timely and provocative set of workshops and this year is no exception, despite the challenges of having the conference convert to online. Held virtually from January 28 through January 31, 2021, the conference will include four plenary sessions, 16 day long institutes, and 48 workshop and caucus sessions. The four day long event, run by the National LGBTQ Task Force, is a space for learning, connecting, and growing as LGBTQ activists, leaders, allies, and changemakers from across the nation join together. For the irst time in its 33 year history, The Creating Change Conference will hold all day long institutes, workshops, keynotes, and caucus sessions online. "Creating Change has a diverse and powerful lineup of workshops at this year's conference,” said conference Director Andy Garcia, “ We will offer an opportunity to discuss all those things you are told to never bring up at the holiday
table: politics, religion, and sex! But seriously, from the hard conversations about the issues we face to organizing strategies in these challenging times to the chance to enjoy each other in community, we are doing our best to create an amazing experience for all who join us,” concluded Garcia. Some examples of the workshops include: Politics: · Hopes and Dreams: Reaching High on Policy Advocacy in 2021
· Vice President Auntie? Organizing Friendly Administrations for Systemic Change · Let's Break The Binary and the Carceral State: Queers Abolishing Prisons and Policing · Queering the Census Today and Tomorrow Religion: · An Exploration of Queer and Trans Ministry, where members of the Trans Seminarian Leadership Cohort will share their own calling,
experience in religious formation, and share how the state of the world including continued antiBlack racism and COVID-19 has disproportionately impacted BIPOC and transgender and non-binary communities. · Turning Your Sermon into a Sound-bite, a training for all interested parties to build and sharpen your communication skills in engaging with elected of icials on advocating for such nondiscrimination protections. · Liberating Your Divine Identity: A Spiritual Conversation, a workshop that will help you gain a better understanding of your sacred worth and divine identity while exploring tools that support liberating your divine spirit. · “Wonderfully Made," Yuval David Film Preview and Discussion on our Understanding of Jesus, a documentary ilm exploring the challenges and aspirations of LGBTQ+ persons of faith in how they powerfully embrace their beliefs despite institutionalized religion's historic and ongoing rejection and persecution of LGBTQ+ people.
Sex: In addition to Mapping Your Desire: The Sexual Liberation Institute, Creating Change will also feature these four sexy workshops: · These are a Few of My Favorite Things, featuring a continually shifting group of sexy story tellers to excite and inspire everyone to explore their own favorite things!
· Sex in the Time of COVID, an interactive discussion with four long-time activists on our struggles and successes in navigating life in quarantine in terms of both masturbation and negotiated safety.
· Decolonizing Desire, a workshop examining what's required to decolonize and reclaim our bodies, desires and sexualities as an act of resistance that allows us to reenergize our activism and holistically heal our systems. · Sexy Survivors, a creative, interactive, and empowering dialogue on surviving sexual abuse and how we have navigated safe and ful illing sexual lives.
There will of course also be opportunities to have fun and celebrate our community and each other. Our iconic Agents of Change House Ball organized by WC Father Angel Revlon (CA), Lady Penelope (NYC) and Legendary Oso Milan (Miami) with national judges and bene itting the House Lives Matter Mutual Aid Fund will be a highlight of the conference. There will also be a game night, an open mic night and the always popular opening “cruise” – all virtual but bringing you Creating Change's spirit of connection and tradition of gathering in community in a new way. ACCESSIBILITY The Creating Change Conference is committed to radical accessibility. Everyone bene its when everyone participates fully and equitably in every aspect of the conference. ASL and Spanish interpretation of individual workshop and caucus sessions will be provided if requested in advance. Further, no one will be turned away for inancial reasons. Anyone may contact creatingchange@thetaskforce.org for additional information.
The National LGBTQ Task Force advances full freedom, justice, and equity for LGBTQ people. We are building a future where everyone can be free to be their entire selves in every aspect of their lives. Today, despite all the progress we've made to end discrimination, millions of LGBTQ people face barriers in every aspect of their lives: in housing, employment, healthcare, retirement, and basic human rights. For more information go to https://www.thetaskforce.org.
thePUB
Fridays Ebony and Ivory Watch Party
Photos: JR Davis
food for thought
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by Amanda Austin Noodle Station owner, Walter Harris, has long had a fascination with all things Japanese... the anime, the culture and most of all...the food! After a twelve year stint working at restaurant Dada in Delray Beach, Walter took a nineteen day trip to Japan that changed his direction in life. He immediately knew his Asian obsession would manifest into what is now
Noodle Station. The restaurant opened in February of 2020, just before the pandemic hit with full force, but was never shuttered during the lockdown because so much of their business is takeaway. While Noodle Station is not a full service restaurant, the love poured into the food would make you think this was a three star Michelin-
rated establishment, complete with crisp, white tablecloths. Walter is very hands-on in the selection and preparation of the ingredients in each of these slightly Americanized, tasty creations. All sauces and components of signature dishes are made in-house, with the exception of the delicious noodles, which he outsources to a local company. Noodle Station occupies the space of the former Hot and Soul in a strip mall near the corner of Oakland Park Boulevard and Federal Highway. The restaurant is one large room with a semi open kitchen tucked into one corner. One expansive wall is adorned with the logo in Japanese-style graffiti. Belly up to the counter and select your favorite Bao, salad, stir fry, noodle bowl or create your own noodle concoction! For a tasty snack, try a couple of Bao (2 for $7)...Sticky buns stuffed with a choice of braised pulled pork, Hoisin glazed beef brisket, 5 spice chicken, soy marinated mushrooms, Asian BBQ tofu and pineapple or green apple Kimchi. Add one to your favorite bowl for only $3. The Udon noodle salad ($11) or the mixed greens and noodle salad ($11) make a delicious, light lunch on the go. The stars at Noodle Station are definitely the fabulous four Signature Noodle Bowls. Select your favorite or channel your inner Morimoto to create your own spectacular work of culinary art. Keep your New Year's resolution with the low carb Keto Bowl ($13.50) featuring hearts of palm,
veggie noodles, cabbage, bok veggie noodles, cabbage, bok choy, sautĂŠed red onion, choy, sautĂŠed red onion, pulled pork, pickled daikon, pulled pork, pickled daikon, pickled egg and roasted pickled egg and roasted beets in a sweet potato and beets in a sweet potato and green pepper veggie broth. green pepper veggie broth. It was a tough decision but It was a tough decision but I believe my favorite is the I believe my favorite is the Three Little Pigs ($15.50). Three Little Pigs ($15.50). Udon noodles, bok choy, Udon noodles, bok choy, corn, cabbage, pickle daikon, corn, cabbage, pickle daikon, pulled pork shoulder, pulled pork shoulder, candied hijiki bacon, candied hijiki bacon, mushrooms, pickled egg and mushrooms, pickled egg and scallions take a swim in a scallions take a swim in a decedent Piggy Sauce. decedent Piggy Sauce. Get your protein fix with Get your protein fix with the American Samurai ($16) the American Samurai ($16) featuring a combination of featuring a combination of Ramen and rice noodles, 13Ramen and rice noodles, 13hour braised and pulled pork hour braised and pulled pork shoulder, hoisin apple cider shoulder, hoisin apple cider glazed beef brisket, five spice glazed beef brisket, five spice chicken, corn, bok choy, chicken, corn, bok choy, cabbage, roasted sweet cabbage, roasted sweet potatoes, daikon radish, potatoes, daikon radish, candied hijiki bacon, candied hijiki bacon, mushrooms and homemade mushrooms and homemade picked egg in a chicken, picked egg in a chicken, oyster and ginger broth. Also featured is the house oyster and ginger broth. beer from all over Florida as beer from all over Florida a Also featured is the house For you traditionalist out For you traditionalist out well as Japanese bottled well as Japanese bottled Stir Fry ($12.50) with Stir Fry ($12.50) with there, may I suggest to you there, may I suggest to you drinks are waiting to wash it drinks are waiting to wash buckwheat Soba noodles, bok buckwheat Soba noodles, bok The O.G. ($12)? A delicious The O.G. ($12)? A delicious choy, roasted mushrooms, all down. all down. choy, roasted mushrooms, and aromatic combination of and aromatic combination of julienned carrots, scallions julienned carrots, scallions ramen, grilled bok choy, and five spiced chicken. All ramen, grilled bok choy, and five spiced chicken. All Noodle Station is located corn, Chinese cabbage, bowls may be transformed corn, Chinese cabbage, bowls may be transformed Noodle Station is located at 3045 North Federal Highwa 3045 North Federal Highway daikon, pulled pork and into a stir fry by adding one of daikon, pulled pork and into a stir fry by adding one of in Fort Lauderdale and is chopped scallions with that chopped scallions with that two homemade Asian BBQ in Fort Lauderdale and is two homemade Asian BBQ open daily Tuesday through open daily Tuesday through scrumptious chicken, oyster scrumptious chicken, oyster sauces at no additional sauces at no additional Sunday noon to 9:30pm Sunday noon to 9:30pm and ginger sauce will surely and ginger sauce will surely charge. charge. (Saturday until 10pm). Catc (Saturday until 10pm). Catch hit the spot. hit the spot. A selection of local craft A selection of local craft the Tonkotsu ramen popup the Tonkotsu ramen popup every Monday from 2:30pm every Monday from 2:30pm until they sell out for a more until they sell out for a more authentic Japanese experiauthentic Japanese experience. Reservations are not ence. Reservations are not accepted. Takeout orders ar accepted. Takeout orders are available at available at eatnoodlestation.com. eatnoodlestation.com.
Season 2 Begins
R
By Scott Holland
uPaul's Drag Race UK” showcases the very best of what the drag scene across the pond has to offer. An intense competition, the queens will slay their way through a weekly series of challenges designed to test their drag expertise. Their make-up skills, fashion sense, sewing abilities, comedy, singing, acting, dancing skills, and of course lip sync skills will all be put to the test. The Queens will be assessed on their Charisma, Uniqueness, Nerve and Talent with the bottom two queens being asked to lip sync for their lives. Season two is even bigger than the irst, with twelve queens battling it out over ten weeks. Judges RuPaul, Michelle Visage, Graham Norton, and Alan Carr are returning to the panel. Each week, Alan or Graham will join RuPaul and Michelle on a rotational
basis, alongside a special celebrity guest judge. “RuPaul's Drag Race UK” is produced by World of Wonder for BBC Three. A global phenomenon, the RuPaul's Drag Race franchise is available in 193 countries through network partners and World of Wonder's streaming service WOW Presents Plus. The series has a total of 19 Emmy wins, making it the Television Academy's mostawarded reality competition show in history. In 2018, Drag Race became the irst series to win Best Reality-Competition Program and Host in the same year, and the show had a repeat victory at this years' ceremony. WOW Presents Plus is an amazing platform that only costs $3.99 a month or $39.99 for the entire year. There are lots of shows on there that you will love, and that will keep you fully entertained. Check it out at: Wowpresentsplus.com
The queens for season 2 are:
Lawrence Chaney Glasgow, 23 “I'm Scottish drag royalty! I'm kind of like Mary Queen of Scots, although I hope one of these English drag Queens doesn't chop off my head”
Lawrence Chaney
Cherry Valentine Darlington, 26 “For those who say I haven't been doing drag long enough, take a look…I'm a queen!”
Cherry Valentine
Bimini Bon Boulash London (via Norfolk), 26 “I am East London's bendiest queen.”
Bimini Bon Boulash
Joe Black, Brighton (Portsmouth), 30 I bring all the wonky eyebrows and eyeshadow of the traditional seaside drag with a bit of haunted glamour.
Joe Black
Tia Ko , London (via Essex and Nottingham), 30 My drag is a melting pot!
Tia Ko
Veronica Green London (Via Rochdale), 34 “I give you sex appeal mixed with a little bit of evil and goofy.�
Veronica Green
Sister Sister Liverpool, 32 “I went from painting on canvases to painting on my face instead”
Sister Sister
Tayce
Tayce London (Via Newport, Wales), 26 “I want to be the next Tom Jones, Shirley Bassey or Catherine Zeta Zones, and give 'em the razzle dazzle”
Ellie Diamond
Ellie Diamond Dundee, 21 “Dundee Diamonds are a girl's best friend”
Ginny Lemon, Worcestershire, 31 Hiya Babs! Fancy a slice?!
Ginny Lemon
Asttina Mandella London, 27 “A star can't be made; a star is born and it's my time to be the star!”
Asttina Mandella
A'Whora London (Via Nottinghamshire), 23 “I started off as Aurora but ended up as �ale�cent!”
Veronica Green
>>> Season 2: Joe Black The series opens with Ru telling the girls that the irst Photo challenge is posing in center court for a championship pose with photographer Kevin McDaid, and in the end the “wimbled hun” who hits Ru with the best shot wins. The winner of the irst mini challenge was Lawrence Chaney. 2020 was the 50th anniversary of gay liberation front in UK. For the irst maxi challenge the queens need to serve a look that pays tribute to their favorite British Icon be they gay or an ally; living or dead. They also need to serve a second look that shows Ru why they are the queen of their hometown.
This week's extra special guest judge is Actress Elizabeth Hurley. The Winner this week's Maxi challenge and a “Rupita Badge” is Asttina Mandella. The bottom two are Joe Black and Bimini Bon Boulash, with Joe Black sashaying away. It was a pleasure to sit down with Joe Black for this
Exclusive Hotspots interview:
At what age did drag become an interest and how did you pick your name? We had drag on the telly since I was a kid, and I had always been interested in Ursulla and Cruella Deville, so it was just a natural progression. My drag name is my given name.
How exciting was it to be chosen for the second season of Drag Race UK? It was absolutely incredible as there were thousands and thousands of applicants. To be picked one of twelve was amazing. I loved season one and to be in the series so quickly was a dream come true. How hard was it to keep the secret that you were on Drag Race? The biggest relief with this hole thing is not having to lie and deceive people. I told
people I was going on a cruise and then I had to constantly come up with stories about the cruise. If you don't keep secret, they do send Michelle visage to kill you.
Tell us about your RuPaul's Drag Race UK experience? It was very brief, but I always think if you are the irst out, everyone remembers you. I also didn't overstay my welcome or piss people o. Is there something you wish you had done dierent? God no, ultimately the judges may not have
liked it, but the online response has been incredible. I stayed true to myself. What's your marital status? I have a boyfriend.
Who are you closest with from the show? I became very close wit Tia Ko i, but I keep in touch with everybody. I always have them on the phone. What's ahead for? I am going to be showing everyone videos and images of the looks I prepared. I have a wonderful photographic series with Greg Bailey. Lots of Youtube and online content. Male sure to check it out!
For more information on Joe Black, follow her on Instagram.com/misterjoeblack or Misterjoeblack.com
Photo: Wikimedia.org - James Petts
Photo: Wikimedia.org - G.Alexandrovia
Equality Garden Club Delays Annual
“A Tropical Plant Fair”
Out of an abundance of concern for the health, safety and welfare of their volunteers, exhibitors and patrons, the Equality Garden Club (EGC) Board of Directors unanimously agreed to delay their annual March event until the Fall of 2021. EGC President Van Gosselin stated, “We take the well-being and safety of our patrons, vendors and volunteers seriously and is our top priority. With that being said, we elected to delay our 2021 event to November.” A Tropical Plant Fair Chairman Carl Shearer continued to say “We are excited about hosting a Fall event, as it complements the holidays and great weather. As well, it prepares us for our upcoming event irst weekend in March beginning in 2022 and thereafter.” The City of Wilton Manors along with the event venders agreed with the need to reschedule to the new dates of November 13th
and 14th. Wilton Manors Director of Leisure Services Patrick Cann communicated, “We fully support the EGC's decision to delay as we too believe it is too soon to hold this signi icant event.” Long-term vendor, Dan and Margie Orchids added, “We agree that having the Spring event would be a challenge and the November timeframe will work well for us.” In addition to their annual A Tropical Plant Fair weekend that transforms Wilton Manor's Historic Richardson Park into a colorful bazaar, supported by over 60 selected exhibitors and thousands of patrons, the Wilton Manors based 501(c)(3) non-pro it also meets at 7pm every 3rd Wednesday of each month at Wilton Manors Hagen Park Community Center. The monthly event provides world-class monthly speakers to educate and entertain their members and guests
02/03/2021
Rosies Bar and Grill
Photos: JR Davis
HOT BODIES
by Tom Bonanti
Achieve a
Superman Metabolism in 2021
Slaving away inside your body – this very minute – is your own personal trainer working tirelessly to help you burn calories and shed fat. It's called your metabolism, and it is the sum total of everything your body does. Every time you eat, enzymes in your body's cells work to convert food to energy that keeps your heart beating, your mind working and your muscles pumping through grueling workouts. The faster your metabolism runs, the more energy you have and the more calories and fat you burn all the time. Here are a few ways to help you achieve that superhuman metabolism that will turn you into a lean, muscular, sexy superman. First, eat a hearty breakfast every single day! What should you be having? You should eat breakfast foods that are slow to digest and leave you fuller longer. Try a mix of lean protein with complex low glycemic index carbohydrates and healthy fats. Here are some suggestions: an omelet made from one egg and two egg whites with a half cup of mixed peppers and onions; a half cup of cooked steel cut oats with a quarter cup of fresh blueberries or raspberries; a whey protein shake with a cup of skim milk and a teaspoon of omega-3 loaded ish oil. Never
skip breakfast under any circumstances – it is the most important meal of the day. Secondly, choose protein for lunch. Cramming protein into every meal helps build and maintain lean muscle mass. Muscle burns more calories than fat, even while you're sleeping. Aim for 30 grams of protein – the equivalent of one cup of lowfat yogurt or a four-ounce boneless chicken breast at each meal. Your body also burns more calories and uses more energy in the digestion of protein. Third, when you workout, don't let the grass grow under your feet! Move from set to set, muscle group to muscle group rapidly. Move around and stretch or do calisthenics between exercises. Reduce rest periods between sets to no more than a minute. Reserve socializing until after your
Health & Fitness
eccentric part of the movement increases the breakdown of those muscle ibers. Sounds awful, right!? It isn't, because the repair process on these tired, broken down ibers pumps up your metabolism up to 72 hours after your session. Make sure to use weights that are challenging enough and keep good form. Give each muscle group up to 72 hours to recuperate before you work them again. Finally, hit the sack early. Count on eight to nine hours of sleep each night. Any less than this for prolonged periods of time can make you cranky, depressed, and fatigued or worse – you'll store more fat and burn less calories!
workouts. Leave the damn phone in the car. Get off your ass and move it! You're not in the gym to “strike a pose” but to work out that body! Fourth, when you lift weights, count to three as you lower the weight back to starting position. Slowing down the negative or Tom Bonanti is a certified fitness trainer and massage therapist (MA#40288) with his own one on one facility Pumpnincgym.com in Ft. Lauderdale. Contact trainertomb@aol.com with questions or to set up an appointment.
Johnsons
Photos: JR Davis
deep inside HOLLYWOOD By Romeo San Vicente
Photo: Kathclick
Together Together hits Sundance with Patti Harrison and Tig Notaro
Zachary Quinto and the Secret Court
Podcasts are everywhere, and now Zachary Quinto's got one. No, he is not sitting at his dining room table talking about Star Trek. He is producing and starring in a scripted podcast series, called Secret Court, based on a 100year-old tragedy that took place at Harvard University. It was then that a young Harvard sophomore named Cyril Wilcox, a member of the class of 1920, killed himself. He had been part of a small group of gay male friends on campus, and his suicide led the school to secretly purge the other students from the university. Nobody had done
anything wrong except be homosexual, but they found themselves branded as offenders and removed from school, their official records – as well as the record of the purge – erased. Secret Court will feature Quinto in a voice role (no other is known at this point) and is being written by Abdi Nazemian (The Artist's Wife), produced in partnership with Quinto's production company. We are also guessing that its potential success might lead to a film or TV version of the story, one that deserves to be brought to light.
Together Together, a new comedy making its debut at the 2021 very online Sundance Film Festival, is another push forward for trans actors. The movie's co-star, comedian Patti Harrison (Shrill), is a transgender comedian who's already got a reputation for turning perceptions about comedy upside down. In TT, she plays opposite Ed Helms as a young loner who goes to work for him, and their growing relationship forms the basis of the story. No word on whether her character is trans or what the on-screen relationship entails, but what's exciting here is that a trans actor is co-headlining a feature. With the exception of, Laverne Cox in the remake of The Rocky Horror Picture Show, that's still a rare enough occurrence to be exciting news. Nikole Beckwith (Stockholm, Pennsylvania) wrote and directed the film, which co-stars Nora Dunn, Tig Notaro and Los Espookys creator Julio Torres. Now all it has to be is funny.
Little Richard really was Everything
When Little Richard died in early 2020 at age 87, the world lost the great queer inventor of rock and roll. In the 1950s he brazenly took on musical norms, white racism and anti-queer cultural norms, defiantly making music that terrified parents and turned-on young people. And though his religious
works, one that will try to capture a small part of the musician's world-changing legacy. Little Richard: I Am Everything – produced by queer filmmaker Dee Rees (Mudbound) in collaboration with Rolling Stone and directed by Lisa Cortes (All In: The Fight for Democracy) – will focus on the man's influence and musical innovation, as well as his fearless (and often contradictory) public discussions about sexuality. Expect lots of famous musicians, queer and otherwise, to lend their testimonies to this one. And a 2022 release is also a safe bet.
A Samantha-less Sex and the City?
You heard that correctly. HBO is in talks with Sarah Jessica Parker, Cynthia Nixon and Kristin Davis for a possible Sex and the City reboot. Kim Cattrall is not part of that conversation. We all know why.
Photo: Wikimedia.org - David Shankbone
beliefs led him to a lifetime of conflict with his own queerness, he maintained his position as a voice for liberation until his death. Now a documentary is in the
And it doesn't matter if you're Team Cattrall or Team Everybody Else in this fractured friend-scape. What matters is the fact that a Sex and the City reboot is a great idea that we all need. This is a dire historical moment of people not having frivolous sex with total strangers and not being able to afford very large Manhattan apartments or Manolo Blahnik shoes or even a fancy brunch. This culture needs frothy, shallow glamourbased entertainment and Sex and the City is a brand you can trust. Solution: A new character who is extremely
horny, young and queer, one who runs circles around the other three women and treats them like the scolding aunties they've all turned into, a chaotic Gen Z sex demon who'll shake things up and make Parker's outfits look tame. Maybe Zendaya. The script can figure out why she'd be hanging out with the rest of them. Maybe she's someone's niece. It doesn't matter. It could work. Romeo San Vicente would very much like a brunch left at his front door and would tip big for it.
Top 5 Ways Pets Can Make Our 2021 New Year's Resolutions Stick! It's that time of year again when many of us start making New Year's resolutions. After a tumultuous 2020, it may be more imperative than ever to strive for physical, mental, and emotional balance. The good news is that there is someone who might be able to help you reach those goals who's closer than you think: your dog or cat. That's right, Fido and Fluy can provide you with the motivation to get 2021 started on the right track. Best Friends Animal Society, a leading animal welfare organization focused on making America a no-kill nation by 2025, oers ive ways your pets can be the best resolution buddies. (Keeping in mind masks, leash laws, and social distancing should be observed whenever you're in public. It's also wise to research hours of operation for any destination before you visit.) START MOVING Do you have an active dog? Then you have a free personal trainer! Dogs love to get exercise
and do it with such enthusiasm, they're sure to make you smile as you head out the door. Walking at a vigorous pace for just 30 minutes, ive times a week can provide the moderately intensive cardiovascular exercise most physicians recommend. (If you and your dog aren't quite ready to hit that goal at the moment,
try a 10 minute walk at your own pace and boost your time by ive-minute increments each week). Some cats even like to go for walks on a leash and harness or in a stroller. If you're not sure how your kitty would feel about it, do some research online to ind the safest ways to introduce walking or strolling into your routine. And if you really want to make those steps count, download Best Friends' ResQWalk app. Sponsored by Front of the Pack, ResQWalk not only tracks your mileage, it allows people to raise money for animal rescues and shelters in the U.S. every time they go walking. EASE STRESS Of course, pets are adorable to look at and fun to hang out with...it turns out they're also good for you! As research has shown, spending quality time with pets can lessen anxiety, lower blood pressure, and bolster your immune system—health bene its many of us
can use. How can you can make the most of this natural stress relief? A daily ifteen-minute break with your cat or dog to meditate is a great start. Sit with your pet in a quiet, comfortable place, focus on being present, breathing deeply, and stroking your pet's fur. Another option is to break out a yoga mat and do some poses with your cat or dog, which will not only ease stress, but also provides a gentle workout. EAT BETTER Did your eating habits change in 2020? This year, swap out fatty, sweet or salty treats and start sharing some good-for-you snacks with your pet. Dogs can eat raw sun lower or pumpkin seeds, plus produce like watermelon, blackberries, cranberries, blueberries,
bananas, apple slices, and baby carrots (but no grapes or raisins, which can be toxic). Cats can get in on the fun, too. Felines are able to enjoy ish like salmon or mackerel, meats like plain boiled chicken, and even a bit of cheese or egg. Just keep in mind that only 10 percent of a pet's daily calories should come from treats. Your veterinarian can con irm which foods are appropriate for your particular pet. VENTURE OUT If you've been stuck at home and can't take one more day staring at four walls, leash up your dog (or a travel loving cat, if you've got one) and hit the road for a day trip. Many beaches, state parks, and local landmarks are still open for sightseeing, so ind a spot that's sure to boost you and your pet's spirits. BE SOCIAL Socializing may seem oxymoronic during COVID-19, but there is a way to be amongst others safely. Get outside with your dog! They are natural ice breakers and you're sure to meet like-minded people who want to share about their own pets. A game of fetch or frisbee at the local park can also be a fun, socially distant activity to enjoy with friends and family. WAIT...WHAT? YOU DON'T HAVE A PET? Well, there's no better time than the new year to adopt a new best friend! By adopting, not only will you be saving a life, you'll get a great deal, as most pets are also ixed, vaccinated, micro-chipped and ready to go home for just one low fee. To get started, visit www.bestfriends.org and ind a local shelter or rescue where your perfect pet is waiting.
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On TV, the Hero Is a
Black Transman An interview with Brian Michael Smith, the rst trans man to star as a series regular on network TV
Photo: Fox
By Chris Azzopardi Without any positive trans role models, Brian Michael Smith grew up in 1980s Michigan thinking a Black transman couldn't be an actor. He wasn't seeing himself on TV, or anywhere. But now and then, things change for the better. Today, people are seeing him everywhere, most notably on Fox's 9-1-1: Lone Star, a spin-o of the 9-1-1 irstresponders show, this time set in Austin, Texas. It's a history-making role: Smith, as Paul Strickland, with a Sherlock Holmes-type mind, is the irst transman to star as a series regular on network TV. Before joining the procedural drama, Smith played Of icer Antoine "Toine" Wilkins, another transman, on OWN's Queen Sugar, which was
What kind of kid were you? I was such an Ann Arbor kid. I would spend so much time outside. I was born in '83, so Stranger Things is a lot like how I spent my afternoons. I had a core group of four friends. and we would just get together after school and go play in the woods. Go walk in the woods to get to a certain playground, or go to the woods, just to go to another neighborhood; get in some mischief, knock over garbage cans, bike away. I was one of those kids. (Laughs.)
Did you know then that you wanted to be an actor? Yeah, I loved to perform. My mom and her sisters all had kids around the same time and then they lived together for a while. They liked to get together and tell stories and have us tell stories, so it'd be a lot like, “Come here and do your thing.” It was ifth grade when I wrote a play, and what was really cool was I got a chance to write this character. I (introduced) my character on stage, with all the attention on me, and nobody challenged that. That was really powerful for me. Because when I was really little, I was telling people, “I'm a boy,
I'm a boy,” and you know, having to defend myself when I would say that. So I liked having that transformative power that I could be whoever I wanted to be when I was performing. When I went to school, I was only getting these female roles given to me in class and thought, “I don't know if I'm going to be able to do this.” What was your experience growing up in Ann Arbor knowing you identi ied as a boy? I didn't even know much about queerness or
Photo: Fox
executive produced by Oprah Winfrey and Ava DuVernay. His other acting credits include The L Word: Generation Q, HBO's Girls, NBC's Chicago P.D. and Showtime's Homeland. In the 2020 documentary Disclosure, Smith spoke about the historical evolution of trans depiction and representation in media alongside other Hollywood trans in luencers and icons, including Laverne Cox and Matrix ilmmaker Lilly Wachowski. Smith is now the change he yearned to see as a kid, when he'd cut through the woods of Ann Arbor with friends to get to school, acting out scenes from movies and cartoons on the way. And hoping that, one day, the rest of the world would accept him as he is.
queer identity. But I was able to be myself. I played football on the boys team at Pioneer (High School). I scored a touchdown, and I'm technically the only female in the state of Michigan history to ever score a touchdown in football on varsity. I say that distinctly because it was Ann Arbor. I remember how afraid I was when I was crossing that giant parking lot to go to the football practice ield for tryouts that irst day and thinking, “They're gonna say no, I'm going to have to really ight for this.” So I walked right up to the coach and said, “I'm here to play football.” He goes, “OK, the equipment's over there; go check in with that guy.” And the freshmen are up on the upper ield and I'm like, “Oh, shit.” I think that was a uniquely Ann Arbor experience, the lack of resistance. You've blown up in the last few years. Does this feel like a breakthrough moment for you? Absolutely. It feels incredible because a lot of what I wanted for myself has manifested this year. And it's been kind of a challenge because
Photo: Fox
this started to blossom the most (last) January and February. I was riding this wave after I got booked (on 9-1-1: Lone Star) in September of 2019. We were ilming and so much of what I wanted to experience, things that I sacri iced for the past 11 years, all this hustling and grinding in New York, started to come to fruition. Then the pandemic hit. So it's been challenging for me because I know how many people are going through what I would have been going through had this pandemic hit my life in 2018.
How did you get involved in Lone Star? I was talking to a friend of mine at this event and I'm just like, “Oh, man, I'm having a good time and I'm performing but it's not exactly what I want. I want to be a series regular on an action-oriented show.” I swear to God that as I'm talking to him, he goes, “Say what you want.” And as soon as I stopped talking I got an email from my agent: “Hey, you got an audition for the 9-1-1 spinoff.” Then I read the character breakdown and it's like, “Trans, roughneck, from Chicago, Midwest.” I was geeked! It checked all the boxes. When I watched the pilot, I was really blown away that I was watching something
as LGBTQ-inclusive as this, a show that feels like something my Midwestern mom and dad would watch, on Fox. Yes, that's the thing. That is the thing. It's an honor, for sure, to be working on The L Word and to bring that kind of authentic representation into a show that didn't necessarily have the greatest history with transmasculine representation. But it's a Showtime show. I grew up watching network prestige dramas. I'm a huge fan of these cop dramas and medical dramas, and I'm aware that that's what people gather around. Those are the ireside chats. These go to the homes in the Midwest. You have to look for Queer Sugar. You have to look for The L Word. But this is on Fox. This is going to reach so many people who may not ever have an opportunity to see anyone like this.
There's a built-in audience for this kind of show already, and then they see a Black transman playing a Black transman on a network TV show getting to be as heroic as a cis white man gets to be on these kinds of shows. What does that feel like? It feels right and unreal, at the same time. Unreal given that I came from the Midwest
I grew up watching network prestige dramas. I'm a huge fan of these cop dramas and medical dramas, and I'm aware that that's what people gather around. Those are the ireside chats.
What can other writers and creators learn from the way Lone Star depicts its trans character? I think they do a great job of listening to trans people. There isn't a trans writer in the room right now, but they've listened to the input that I have. It's also part of the Ryan Murphy universe, so I think they learned a lot from the Pose experience and how having actual trans voices and listening to other trans consultants and showrunners is what brings the authenticity to a role. Then writing to the humanity of the character and not just what feels sensational about them. The character can just happen to be trans. They
can be all these other things, and that is just a part of who they are.
What can you say about Paul's character arc this season? We get to know a lot more about Paul in this season that I'm excited about. What's great is they've sort of built in the timeline, so time has passed and because of the quarantine the team is spending even more time together than they would just being ire ighters who work 48hour shifts together. They've changed up even how we respond to calls based on what COVID protocols would be.
Photo: Billy Small
and I never even knew that there were other people like me until I was 20. In the generation that I came up in, everything had to be a secret. So, I was thinking for a long time that I'm not going to be able to do what I want to do: performance, being an actor and being fully myself. Then slowly I came to realize, because of trailblazers that went before me like Laverne Cox, that, “Wait, we can. And maybe I can be a trans actor and maybe I can play a trans character.� And not just a trans character who's a victim or the butt of a joke, or a villain, or a side character. A whole series regular.� That was only six years ago.
Photo: Wikimedia.org - OgreBot/Uploads
What about Paul's personal life and romantic life? To be honest, what I know about his personal life so far is... I think dates are happening. I haven't seen anything OK'd yet, but we get to know more about his family life, which is interesting. Would you like to see Paul with a romantic interest? Oh yeah, oh yeah. Yeah! Come on! Paul's been getting in shape! He's got his quarantine body together! (Laughs.)
When interviewing for the job in the irst season, you tell the ire ighter captain that being trans means you've had to be a step ahead of everyone simply because you're trans, for survival purposes. Was that true for you in your own life as well? I think to some degree, yeah. I didn't know if I knew any trans people growing up. For a long time, I thought I was the only one. And the only real representation I had of an actual trans person was Brandon Teena, and he was murdered. And it was by people he trusted or tried to trust. So, I think in the back of my mind I've probably always had that: “How much of this do I need to protect?” So yeah, just reading people, keeping an eye on people. I grew up in a very Southern Baptist traditional household and a very heteronormative space, so when I did start to hear even just the word “gay” it was in the negative connotation that kids use in middle school. On talk shows and in tabloids all I saw were negative depictions of transwomen. I didn't know an actual transman existed until I was 20. The irst was Jamison Green on this website, and I saw this fully functioning adult man, a writer, and he's all these things I was. Then when I saw that transmen existed; I knew exactly who I was. It was this very beautiful, eye-opening, tears-with-joy moment when I realized that there's a future
for me.
During that same interview, the captain says to you, “Somewhere in this town right now is a kid who's just like you were. Feeling scared, hopeless. I'd like you to show him, or her, or they it's OK to be who you are.” That's true of Paul, but that's also true of you, Brian. What do you hear from young trans and gender-nonconforming people who watch the show? It was that line that really hit home for me. That was in the audition material that they sent to me when I wanted to audition. I read that line and felt like that was my life mission as a trans person. Knowing I was different and had all these struggles because I was different, I asked myself this question: Why? Why was I born like this? Just why, why, why? Then I'm doing this and parents are telling me now that they don't feel as afraid for their child because they know they can be a happy, functioning person because of the character and me, the person. Children reach out and say, “You're my hero and I can grow up and be like you.” Forty-year-old adults who have never seen anybody like themselves and now feel the courage to be themselves. Well, that's why. That's why I went through all that stuff. That's why I was born the way I was born.
As editor of Q Syndicate, the LGBTQ wire service, Chris Azzopardi has interviewed a multitude of superstars, including Cher, Meryl Streep, Mariah Carey and Beyoncé . His work has also appeared in The New York Times, Vanity Fair, GQ and Billboard. Reach him via Twitter @chrisazzopardi.
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