Central Florida Edition
from the publisher
March 2018
Welcome to the March edition of Hotspots Central. Here we are in the peak of tourist season and with so much to do, it’s hard to really know where to start. One thing is certain, take time for yourself and the ones you love because life is too damn short not to be happy. As we grieve for the 17 students violently takenfromtheirfamiliesinParkland,wealsowillneverforget those we lost in Orlando. We lift our spirits and carry on, embracinglifeandallthejoyitbrings. Speaking of joy, March means it is time for Tampa Pride and this year promises to be even better than last year! We hopeyoutaketimetojoinusinYborCityforaweekendoffun andlaughteraswecelebrateasonecommunity. Yesthereis a lot to be proud of but we have a long way to go to guarantee equality for all. So come and join in on the fun and stop by and say hello at our booth near the stage. Remember, while you are celebrating, raise a glass to all who have come before us and helped make our LGBT community in Central Floridaallthatitistoday! Sincerely,
Publisher/Marketing Director Peter Clark Peter@HotspotsMedia.com
Associate Publisher Scott Holland Scott@HotspotsMedia.com
Accounting Richard Paull Richard@HotspotsMedia.com
Art Director Maria Espinal Maria@HotspotsMedia.com
Graphics Graphics@HotspotsMedia.com
Frank Mendez
Sales Team Brett Yancey 813-253-9107 Brett@HotspotsMedia.com
National Advertising Rivendell Media 212-242-6863 sales@rivendellmedia.com
Feature Writers Scott Holland | Chris Azzopardi Brett Yancey | Tom Bonanti D’anne Witkowski
Peter Clark Publisher
Photographers Tony Fowler | Snap Out Loud! Amy DeMillo | Pat O’Rourke Hannah Jordan
Logistics
CONTACT US Central Florida Office: 813-253-9107 11 N. Summerlin Avenue, Suite 210 Orlando, FL 32801 South Florida Office: 954-928-1862 5090 N.E. 12th Avenue Oakland Park, FL 33334 Fax 954-772-0142
Brett Yancey
HotspotsCentral.LGBT Info@HotspotsMedia.com HotspotsMediaGroup.com Facebook.com/HotspotsCentralFlorida
Hotspots Central is published by HOTSPOTS MAGAZINE OF FLORIDA at 5090 N.E. 12th Avenue Fort Lauderdale, FL 33334. Opinions expressed are not necessarily the opinion of HOTSPOTS MAGAZINE or any of its staff. Publication of the name or photos of any living person or organization in articles or advertising in HOTSPOTS MAGAZINE is not to be constructed as any indication of the sexual orientation of such person or organizations. All copy, text, display, photos and illustration in the ads are published with the understanding that the advertisers are fully authorized, have secured proper written consent for the use of names, pictures, and testimonials of any living person, and Hotspots Magazine may lawfully publish and cause such to be made. Advertisers automatically agree by summiting said ad to indemnify and save blameless the publisher from any and all liability, loss and expense of any nature out of the publication. The deadline for Hotspots Central is the 20th of every month at 5pm. In the event that an ad is excepted after deadline, the advertiser agrees by submitting such an ad to indemnify and save blameless the publisher from any andallliability,lossandexpenseofanynaturethatarisefromanyerrorthatmaybemadeinsaidad. Allrightsreserved. Reproductioninpartorinwholeofthispublicationwithoutwrittenpermission isstrictlyprohibited. Hotspotsisaregisteredtrademark.
on the inside
Central Florida Edition March 2018
The Frivolist 9 new date-night ideas to spend QT with your OG.
content: • • • •
What’s Hot Central Florida Hot Bodies Queens We Love Hotspots Hotties
• • • •
Tampa Pride Forever Plaid The Frivolist Car Buying
this month’s features:
hot shots •Southern Nights Tampa •Orlando AIDS Walk •Around Tampa Bay with Amy DeMilo •Flamingo Resort
What’s HOT ...everything you need to plan your month
The 4th annual Tampa Pride Parade and Street Festival will take place on Saturday March 24, from 10:00am – 5:00pmin historicYborCity, alsoknown as theGaYBORDistrict. This is nowanannualspringeventwhenFloridaweatherisatitsbest!
The 2018 Tampa Pride Street Festival is Expanding! Once again, Tampa pride organizers are working with Hillsborough Community College (HCC) Ybor Campus to bring you added attractions. This year the festival has added the Arts & Crafts Show, Community Health Fair and a new Entrepreneurs Area. The Main Stage will be in the parking lot on the NW corner of 8th Avenue and 15th Street. The Festival will kick off at 9:50a.m. with the Tampa Bay Pride Band and guest speakers followed by a variety of featured entertainment. TheStreetFestivalwrapsupat5pm.
Tampa Pride Parade Once again, the parade will wind its way east from the corner of Nuccio Parkway and 7th Avenue, down 7th Avenue to 20th Street where it will turn north to end at their new Street Festival location around historic Centennial Park. With live parade commentary from the balcony of Hamburger Mary's. There will be a special community tribute at noon in frontofCentroYborwiththeparadestartingat1p.m.,
2018 Grand Marshalls
JANE CASTOR - Former Chief at the Tampa Police Department, Jane Castor's decisive leadership is evident in all aspects of her 31 year career. She was elected the first female president of a police academy class and 26 years later, she became the first woman to lead the Tampa Police Department. Chief Castor has redefined community policing in her hometown and driven down the crime rate with her innovative approach to fighting crime, most successfully through strong partnerships with the community. Jane holds a Master's of Public Administration from Troy State University and is a graduateoftheFBINationalAcademy. REV. JAKOB HERO-SHAW - is the Senior Pastor at MCCTampa. Jakob also serves on the world-wide denominational Governing Board of the Metropolitan Community Churches and is the coordinator of the
Transgender Religious Roundtable at the Center for LGBTQ and Gender Studies at the Pacific School of Religion. Jakob was born and raised in Tampa. After graduating from the University of South Florida, Jakob moved to Eastern Europe to serve in the field of LGBTQ human rights. He returned to Tampa in 2011 and served as a chaplain at Tampa General Hospital until he became senior pastor of the Metropolitan Community Church of Tampa in 2015. Jakob's greatest joy in life is raising two incredible kidswithhishusband,Allan.
Recognized Community LGBTQA Award Recipients
Ernie Webb - moved to the Tampa Bay area in 2004 after completing his undergraduate degree in Political Science from Wichita State University. Ernie is a true entrepreneur and as such, he teamed up with two Tampa businessmen to create The Honey Pot, a long standing LGBT establishment in Ybor City. As Co-Owner and Operator of the 14,000 square foot dance club Ernie has always supported our local community. In addition to his role as primary operator of The Honey Pot, he is also Director of Sales for Shimberg Homes, a local luxury home builder. From his never ending devotion to animal rescue and the first ally to sit as President of the Gaybor District Coalition, Ernie Webb continues to devote his time and resources to making our worldabetterplaceforEVERYONE. Dr. Shawn Robinson – is a proud community leader andhasservedastheYborCityCampusPresidentof Hotspots Central Florida HotSpotsCentral.LGBT
Hillsborough Community College since September 2007. Prior to that, he served as a Mathematics Professor, Library Director, Academic Assistant to the Provost, and Dean of Social Sciences and Physical Education at Valencia Community College in Orlando. For over fifteen years, Dr. Robinson lead the Ybor City Campus through trust, relationship building, support, accountability, and leadershipby-example in a safe and supportive environment. As a representative of Hillsborough Community College in the Tampa and Ybor City communities, Dr. Robinson is currently serving as a board member of the Ybor City Chamber of Commerce (Secretary), the Ybor City Development Corporation (past Chair) and the Early Learning Coalition of Hillsborough County (Vice Chair). He also served on the Florida A & M University College of Law Board of Visitors, the Tampa Historic Streetcar, Hillsborough Kids, and NextGen Alliance boards as well as on the City of Tampa Cultural Assets Taskforce. He was also a coadvisorfortheYborCityCampusChessClub. Dr. Robinson holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Mathematics Education, a Master of Education degree in Mathematics Education and a Doctor of Education degree in Curriculum and Instruction
from the University of Central Florida. He holds a JurisDoctoratedegreefromFloridaA&MUniversity College of Law and is a member of the Florida Bar. In his free time, he enjoys golf, chess, Xbox, the SCIFI Channel, spending time with his family, and yes, he eventakestimeouttoridehismotorcycle.
2018 Grand Couple
John & Nancy Desmond - When their only child came out to them as gay as a 28year-oldadult,they were confused and scared for his welfare, as is often the case when family members become suddenly and intimately immersed in an unfamiliar subject. Jumping in with both feet, the Desmonds founded PFLAG Tampa and relied on their newfound LGBTQ friends from an open and affirming church to introduce them to this inclusive community. They attended and became members of many LGBTQ groups and organizations, John was a member of the Hillsborough County Human Relations Board for six years and helped craft the county's 2014 Human Rights Ordinance that included LGBTQ protections
and paved the way for the resurrection of Tampa Pride. BothJohnandNancyarefrequentspeakersat the meetings of the Board of County Commissioners, School Board and Tampa City Council. They have opened their home to homeless LGBTQ youth, including a budding drag queen, throughtheHillsboroughCountyHomeless
Coalition. They also sheltered a transgender young man whose family refused to acknowledge his transition, causing severe dysphoria. Well known on both sides of the bridge for their advocacy, just this past year, the Desmonds started the new, longoverdue, PFLAG St. Petersburg chapter. They also volunteer as the Community & Nonprofit Groups Liaisons for Tampa Pride, reaching out to both local organizations and college LGBT clubs across the entireEastCoast.
JohnandNancymetwhileattendingtheUniversityof Connecticut and have been married for 42 years. They liketosaythatthebestthingthateverhappenedtothem waswhentheirsoncameout.
2018 Community Organization
The Suncoast Softball League - The Suncoast Softball League is the Tampa Bay area's largest GLBTA sports league with over 450 members in 3 levels of play. They play ball year round, both here and travelling to sister tournaments throughout the country. Their Gasparilla Softball Classic tournament held in February each year brings upwards of 70 teams to the area to play ball, but also to enjoy the nightlife and businesses. The league isn't just about sports. For all of their 25 years, they've raised money, lots of money, for the community. Each year through their SSL's Got Talent fundraiser, they raise thousands of dollars that they donate to local charities, from Tampa Aids Network in the early years to a more diverse group this year: Athena House for homeless female veterans, Suncoast Animal League, Vets for Pets and Meals on Wheels. They also volunteer with many of their sister organizations, with league members in leadership positions in both Tampa and St. Pete Pride among othergroups.
Vendor Exhibits The vendor exhibit areas are in two main areas: 9th Avenue and 8th Avenue / HCC parking lot. First, the 9th Avenue area is one block from 14th to 15 streets and is located due north of the HCC main stage. The second area is the HCC parking lot area and continues along 8th Avenue towards Centro Ybor. Look for the Hamburger Mary's Entertainment Stage intheheartofitall!
For more information, please go to: Tampapride.org
Hotspots Central Florida HotSpotsCentral.LGBT
what’s hot everything you need to know
to plan your month
H
Happy 2018, Hotspots Central readers! Welcome once again to the What's Hot column, where we keep you in the loop with lots of important nightlife events in Tampa Bay, Orlando, and points in between. We're also your connection to many activities and events organized by local LGBT service organizations and chambersofcommerce. Want to know What's Hot in March? Readmoreandfindout!
and will feature adult male video star Jack Vidra and DJ JB Burgos. They will also feature Gobearr Gear &TampaBayBearsanda1amJock Strap Auction. This is a 21+ only eventandisfreebefore10. Stonewall Bar Orlando presents the 1st Annual Stache Bash. Check your pants at the door and wear your mustache
Friday, March 2 Southern Nights Tampa presents NeiBEARhood Takeover: Green Kilt Ball, which is a fundraiser by Brady Bodiford for Tampa Bay Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence,
proudly. They invite everyone to dance, drink and celebrate The Stache featuring hot mustached Go-Go Men, DJ Skinner & your favorite Stonewall bartenders! Cash and prizes for Sexiest and TrashiestStache! CelebrityManagementpresents “The Bitch is Back” starring Joe Posa as Joan Rivers with special
guest Tony Tripoli tonight and tomorrow night (Sat March 3) at 7:30p.m. at the Parliament House. Admission is $25 and VIP is $30 (includes Photo Op), and can be p u r c h a s e d a t phouseorlando.eventbrite.com
Saturday, March 3 Hamburger Mary's Brandon presents Darkiel live in concert. Doors open at 10p.m. with concert at 11p.m. Tickets are $15 in advance at Tickeri.com, and $20 at the door (VIP - $30). This is an18andoverevent! The Parliament House presents their Annual Mardi Gras extravaganza and Parade Spectacular. This event includes floats, marching bands, beads, the Footlight Players and muchmore!
Sunday, March 4 The Flamingo Resort presents
Central Florida National Showgirl, Showgirl at Large & Showman Pageants…a triple crowning hosted by Iman and starring the national court: Alexis Mateo, Crytal
Belle and Aries M Kelly. The categories include: Personal Interview, Evening Gown (Showgirl, showgirl at large), Glitz Formal Wear (Showman), and Talent. Admission is $10 and doors open at 6p.m. with the pageant starting promptly at 7p.m.
Tuesday, March 6 The Straz Center for the Performing Arts presents The Color Purple from today until March 11, whichisthe2016TonyAwardwinner for Best Musical Revival! This joyous American classic has conquered Broadway in an all-new "ravishingly reconceived production that is a glory to behold” (The New York Times) directed by Tony winner John Doyle. With a soul-raising score of jazz, gospel, ragtime and blues, The Color Purple gives an exhilaratingnewspirittothisPulitzer Prize-winning story. Don't miss this stunning re-imagining of an epic story about a young woman's journey to love and triumph in the
American South. Intended for mature audiences; contains adult themes and language, with tickets startingat$31. The Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall presents The Wizard of Oz tonight and tomorrow at 7p.m. A spectacular celebration of the iconic 1939 MGM film, this production will blow you away from the moment the tornado touches down and transports you to a dazzling Oz. The entire family will be captivated as they travel down the Yellow Brick Road and beyond with Dorothy, Toto and their friends the Cowardly Lion, Tin Man and Scarecrow in this lavish production, featuring breathtaking special effects, dazzling choreography and classic songs. Tickets start at $56.
Thursday, March 8 The Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall presents the American rock band Daughtry, which was formed and fronted by namesake Chris Daughtry, a finalist on the fifth season of American Idol. Since forming, Daughtry has released four studio albums, scored four No. 1 hits, garnered four Grammy nominations, won four American Music Awards, won three People's Choice Awards, sold over 8.2 million albums and 16 million singles worldwide and sold out concerts around the globe. The concert starts at 8pm withticketsstartingat$56.
Friday, March 9 Tod a y a n d t o m o r ro w, Saturday, 10, the Improv Comedy Club and restaurant Tampa
Wednesday, March 7 The Straz Center for the performing Arts presents “Blame It On Bianca.” The alter ego of
presents the one and only Margaret Cho. This is a 21 and up showwithticketsstartingat$25. comic Roy Haylock and season six winner of RuPaul's Drag Race, Bianca Del Rio remains the reigning queen of hate with her hilarious, double-edged and triple-barbed stand-up shows. Audiences loved her Not Today Satan performance at The Straz two years ago, and she is back with a brand-new show. The New York Times calls Rio “the Joan Rivers of the drag world,” and Rivers herself called Rio's humor “sofunny!Sosharp!”Ticketsstart at$49.50.
Saturday, March 10 Southern Nights Orlando presents “The Devil Wears Prada: The Dragsical” with doors opening at 8p.m. and show time at 9p.m starring MR MS Adrien as Miranda,NataliaTaylorAdonisas Andy, Natalie Nayles as Emily, Mike Van Dyke as Nigel and featuring Dallas Cole & Dre Green. Tickets are $20. The Devil Wears Prada: The Dragsical is a 45 minute live musical show based off of the iconic film. Written and directed by MR MS
Hotspots Central Florida HotSpotsCentral.LGBT
Adrien, this show is the first in a series of Dragsicals... not quite a drag show, not quite a musical, where they retell your favorite stories the way they were meant to be told... with drag queens and music!
Tuesday, March 13 Amway Center presents Romeo Santos in his “Golden Tour” at 8p.m. The tour is titled after Santos' latest studio album
“Golden,” which was released in 2017andearnedthebiggestsales week for a Latin studio album not only of 2017, but in over two years. The album also marks Santos' fourth No. 1 on the Top Latin Albums chart and his third top 10 on the Billboard 200. Ticketsstartat$36.50.
Arts from President Barack Obama. “She is a one-of-a-kind musical super-talent … as a singer she is an irreplaceable resource.” – The New York Times. Her show starts at 8p.m., and ticketsstartsat$56.
Thursday, March 15 Comedian, actor, radio host and bestselling author, Jay Mohr has been performing stand-up comedy since he was sixteen years old, with a career that has spanned over three decades. Catch Jay performing in two locations in central Florida: Improv Comedy Theater and restaurant Tampa from today until March 17 and then Improv Comedy Theater and restaurant OrlandofromMarch22-24. Side Splitters Comedy Club presents, direct from America's Got Talent, Preacher Lawson from tonight through Sunday, March 18. Daily show time is at 8 pm with admission $25 and 2 drink minimum. This is an 18 and overevent!
Friday, March 16
Wednesday, March 14
Stonewall Bar Orlando presents The Glitter Ball at 9p.m. This Emerald Fantasy will take you through a whole new journey as they come together to support two great organizations: Miracle of Love and Stafford House, Expect to be entertained with hints of green, glow, and glitter throughout this amazing
The Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall presents Audra McDonald, who is unparalleled in the breadth and versatility of her artistry as both a singer and an actress which makes her the powerhouse artist that she is. The winner of a record-breaking six Tony Awards, two Grammy Awards and an Emmy Award, she was named one of Time magazine's 100 most influential people of 2015 and received a 2015 National Medal of
fundraising extravaganza, which is hosted by Lacie Browing. The night will also feature a 50/50 Raffle. Tickets are only $5 in
advance or $10 at the door. If you're having a blast at the fundraiser, stay a little longer as they transition the evening into an Emerald Fantasy Fetish Party from11p.m. to2am. The Dr. Phillips Center presents Anita Baker at 8p.m. in her farewell concert series to express gratitude to her second generation of millennial fans that keep her name trending on
Twitter, have viewed her videos on YouTube more than 20 million times and have streamed her more on Spotify than the sales of her platinum albums! Kendrick Lamar, Lalah Hathaway and Andre 3000 claim her as their musical inspiration and seek her out! Anita has won 8 Grammy Awards, had 7 albums (including 6 platinum) and 6 world tours. Ticketsstartat:$49.50.
Saturday, March 17 Southern Nights Tampa presents “Let's Get Shamrocked…A St Patrick's Day Event" with doors openingat4p.m. andtheparadeat 8p.m. Drag Show at 12am with Roxxxy Andrews, Jade Embers and guests with DJs Dutch and Scott Robert,Thisisa18andoverevent! Dr. Phillips Center presents in Joe Rogan in his “Strange Times 2018 Tour” with 2 shows: 8p.m.and 10:30p.m. A stand-up comedian for more than 20 years, Joe Rogan sells out theaters internationally with his inquisitive and intense comedic style. Rogan is host of The Joe Rogan Experience, featuring long-form conversation with
storied singer appears with a pop-country concert packed with her greatest hits and more. Ticketsstartat$34.50.
Tuesday, March 20
guests, and it's one of the most popular comedy podcasts on iTunes. Ticketsstartat$39.50.
Sunday, March 18 The Straz Center for the Performing Arts presents 2 shows tonight: The first is Ana Gasteyer, who when stepping up to the mic evokes the swagger of an era when a lady ruled a nightclub and an audience knew they were in for a good time. The patter is real, the themes adult; the lyrics are timeless and the music swings like crazy. This six-season Saturday Night Live alum graduated from Studio 8H to Broadway, eventually landing in her ultimate element – the cabaret. Tickets start at $35.50. The second is Tiffany. Red-haired 80s pop sensation Tiffany charmed America with her legendary mall tour that gave a generation “I Think We're Alone Now” and “ C o u l d ' v e B e e n . ” F ro m skyrocketing teen success, Tiffany settled in the tight-knit Nashville songwriting community in her adult years — which led to her acclaimed EP Rose Tattoo and latest album A Million Miles. This
Fairwinds Broadway in Orlando presents Waitress from today through March 25–25 at the Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts. Waitress is a musical version of the film of the same name, featuring creatively titled pies and a score by Sara Bareilles. Waitress tells the story of Jenna - a waitress and expert pie maker who dreams of a way out of her small town and loveless marriage. A baking contest in a nearby county and the town's new doctor may offer her a chance at a fresh start, while her fellow waitresses offer their own recipes for happiness. But Jenna must summon the strength and courage to rebuild her own life. Ticketsstartat$34.25. The Straz Center for the Performing Arts presents The Bodyguard from today until March 25. Based on the smash hit film, the award-winning musical will star Grammy Award nominee and R&B superstar Deborah Cox! Former Secret Service agent turned bodyguard, Frank Farmer, is hired to protect superstar Rachel Marron from and unknown stalker. Each expects to be in charge; what they don't expect is to fall in love. A breathtakingly romantic thriller, The Bodyguard features a host of irresistible classics including “Queen of the Night,” “So Emotional,” “One Moment in Time,” “Saving All My Love,” “Run to You,” “I Have Nothing,” “I Wanna Dance with Somebody” and one of the biggest selling songs of all time – “I Will Always Love You.” Intended for mature audiences;
contains adult themes and language. Ticketsstartat$39.
Thursday, March 22 Southern Nights Orlando presents The Animation Party, A night where your favorite cartoon characters are brought to life on the dance floor stage! Twoshowtimes:10:30Freshman Lineup hosted by MrMs Adrien with special guests and 12:30 main show hosted by Axel
Andrews, and stars Roxxxy Andrews , Kaija Adonis , Kitana Gemini and Dollya Black. DJ DLUXspinsallnight! Amalie Arena presents Disney On Ice: Reach For The Stars from today until March 25. Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, Donald Duck, Goofy, Anna, Elsa, Olaf, Sebastian, Ariel, Rapunzel, Flynn Rider, Belle, and much more take totheice. Ticketsstartat$18
Hotspots Central Florida HotSpotsCentral.LGBT
Friday, March 23 The Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall presents Lewis Black in his “The Joke's on US Tour” at 8p.m. Lewis is a Grammy-Awardwinning, stand-up comedian, and is one of the most prolific and popular performers working today. He executes a brilliant trifecta as a stand-up comedian, actor and author. He is a passionate performer who is a more pissed-off optimist than a mean-spirited curmudgeon. Lewis is the rare comic who can cause an audience to laugh themselves into incontinence while making compelling points about the absurdity of our world. Ticketsstartat$41.
Saturday, March 24 The 4th annual Tampa Pride Parade and Street Festival will take place on Saturday March 24, from 10:00am– 5:00pmin historicYbor
City, also known as the GaYBOR District. This is now an annual spring event when Florida weather is at its best! For more information on the parade, festival, Grand Marshall's, parties, etc. visitTampaPride.org.
Tuesday, March 27 FL Falun Dafa Association presents Shen Yun 2018, where they invite you to experience a Divine Culture today and tomorrow at theDr. PhillipsCenter for the Performing Arts. Heroes,
shaped our lives and made us all move to the same beat. Featuring classic songs such as “My Girl” and “Ain't No Mountain High Enough,” experience the story behind the music! Tickets startat$56.
Friday, March 30
mischief and miracles, everyone likes a good story, and. Chinese culture has 5,000 years of them. Folktales, legends, and timeless classics make up this magical world of immortals and miracles. Ticketsstartat$80. The Straz Center for the Performing Arts presents
Beautiful - The Carole King Musical from today until April 1. Long before she was Carole King, chart-topping music legend, she was Carol Klein, Brooklyn girl with passion and chutzpah. She fought her way into the record business as a teenager and, by the time she reached her twenties, had the husband of her dreams and a flourishing career writing hits for the biggest acts in rock 'n' roll. But it wasn't until her personal life began to crack that she finally managed to find her true voice. Intended for mature audiences; contains adult themes and language. Ticketsstartat$46. The Van Wezel Performing Arts Center presents Motown, The Musical starting tonight and going through April 1. Motown The Musical is the true American dream story of Motown founder Berry Gordy's journey from featherweight boxer to the heavyweight music mogul who launched the careers of Diana Ross, Michael Jackson, Smokey Robinson and many more. Motown shattered barriers,
Dr. Phillips Center presents Maks, Val & Peta on Tour: Confidential. Confidential is theirall-newdancetourfollowing their smash hit “Our Way” national tour that was all about family.The greatest performances come from artists with deep emotional connections to their work. Confidential provides the deepest connection possible, with the cast able to draw upon their own family bonds, lives and love stories. Confidential will be their most honest show yet, revealing secrets, hopes and dreams. The show will inspire and delight, and by learning a little more about Maks, Val and Peta you might learn a little bit more about yourselves. Tickets startat$39.50.
Saturday, March 31 Grammy-nominated, multiplatinum singer and songwriter Demi Lovato, and special guest multi-platinum, hip-hop icon DJ Khaled wrap up their 20 city tour today at 7:30 PM at the Amalie Arena. Ticketstartat$29.95
Email WhatsHot@HotspotsMedia.com to have your event considered for “What’s Hot.”
SERVING AND EDUCATING OUR COMMUNITIES SINCE 1991
Our mission is to provide comprehensive, multi-cultural HIV/AIDS care education and prevention services that are effective and responsive to the Central Florida communities.
FOR MORE INFORMATION
407.843.1760 Miracleofloveinc.org 741 W. Colonial Dr. Orlando 32804
SERVICES PROVIDED Medical Case Management
HIV/STI Screening & Counseling Targeted Outreach For Pregnant Women Housing Case Management Support Groups Peer Mentoring LGBTQ+ Drop-In Space
FOLLOW US
hot shots photos by tony fowler
Southern Nights Tampa Gasparilla Night Parade
“This deliciously fun revue is chock-full of classic barbershop quartet harmonies and pitch-perfect melodies!”
“Forever Plaid” At the Straz Center for the Performing Arts through March 17 ////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////
W
When four young singers are killed in a car crash, they posthumously take the stage for one final gig in thisgoofy,1950'snostalgiatrip. Thisdeliciouslyfun revue is chock-full of classic barbershop quartet harmonies and pitch-perfect melodies! This productionissponsoredbyBankofAmericaandthe TampaBayTimes. Singing in close harmony, squabbling boyishly and executing their charmingly outlandish choreography with overzealous precision, the Plaids are a guaranteed smash, with a program of beloved songs that keep audiences rolling in the aisles when they're not humming along to some of thegreatnostalgicpophitsofthe1950s. Regularly priced tickets are $42 and may be purchased by calling 813.229.STAR (7827) or 800.955.1045 outside Tampa Bay, in person at the Straz Center Ticket Sales Office or online at
www.strazcenter.org. Handling fees will apply. For more information about the Straz Center for the Performing Arts and its upcoming events, visit www.strazcenter.org.
Hotspots Central Florida HotSpotsCentral.LGBT
hot shots photos by brett yancey
AIDS Walk
Orlando
the frivolist
I
by mikey rox
9 New Date-Night Ideas to Spend QT with Your OG
If you've been with your partner a while, it can be hard to come up with exciting date ideas. Maybe you'restuckinadinner-and-a-movierut– ifyou're making time to “date” at all – or perhaps you're so active that you've already done “everything”. Or so you think. Relight the fire in your hearts by spending quality time with that ol' gayngsta you call boo with these full-of-fun, new-to-you date nights.
1. Group Pedacycle Traditionally a pedacycle refers to any motorized bike, like a moped, but more and more places, like my own town of Asbury Park, are introducing pedacycles built to hold upwards of 15 riders who hop on board to jointly mobilize the vehicle with only their burning leg power. This isn't just a trip around the block, either. Most of these rides have
a purpose, like a food or booze tour of an area to get you good and snockered. Great as a just-you-two date if you like meeting other couples, or get your wholesquadtogetherforthistipsycardioworkout.
2. Datebox Once a month you'll receive a box in the mail (based on your likes and dislikes determined through a preliminary personality test) that contains the makings of a memorable date designed to rekindle the romance. Could be a date night in with curated activities and snacks or you might venture out to explore never-before-visited places in familiar territory. Choose from four options – Serious, Steady, Flirting, and Digital Only – that range in price from about $33 down to $8 per month. Datebox is a monthly subscription that renews automatically, but youcancancelatanytimewithnopenalty.
3. Hatchet Throwing
6. Make-and-Take Activities
Stressed out? Hurtle your aggression across a room with a mini ax! Joints like 'Stumpys Hatchet House in New Jersey (but popping up in more locations across the country) arm you with a sharpenedweapontoaimtowardatargetthatawards pointsforwherethehatchetlandsontheboard. Love it enough and you could make it a weekly event by joiningaleague. Beatsboringol'bowling.
Huge fan of make-and-take activities over here, and I'm always looking for the next best to-dos. Recently my boyfriend and I participated in Plant Nite – an offshootoftheverypopularsip-and-strokePaintNites – where we designed our own succulent terrariums. We'vealsorolledupoursleevestomakecandles,blow glass and create DIY projects in the free workshops offeredbyHomeDepot.
4.VRExperience Virtual reality for public consumption has been around for a few decades, but it's become quite sophisticated in the past few years, so much so that facilities dedicated to the experience, like Ctrl V, are now opening. There are more than 20 games from which to choose at many locations that allow you to explore mountain ranges, venture into space, and become a soldier in fully immersive scenarios that give players an hour in a variety of gamesforabout$25perperson.
7. Fitness Challenges My guy and I participate in the Rugged Maniac race every summer – it's a great workout with a lot of teamwork and even more laughs – and we sign up for other fitness challenges when we're feeling competitive, like 'Cupids Undie Run, billed as the nation's largest pantless party. That'sreasonenoughforus.
8. Period Dress for a Road Trip in a Classic Car Get dressed like you're going to a sock hop, 'rent a 57 Chevy, and roll into an unexplored town like you just drove through a hole in the space-time continuum. You'llturnafewheadsforsure.
9. Campy Camping
5. Fun with Science You'll get a hands-on education during a visit to a science center. Places like the Philip and Patricia Frost Museum of Science in Miami offer plenty of interactive activities to do with your partner, like kissing underneath the stars in a planetarium, making paper airplanes, petting stingrays and studying the human body. Consider the last one a refreshercourse.
Upscale camping becomes even more accessible thanks to companies like Hipcamp and Glamping Hub, which helps wanderlusters find the beyond-cool accommodations they never knew they wanted. Like this 1930s Navy bunker on Mare Island Preserve in Vallejo, California. If you prefer a little more luxury and filth in your vacay, check into 'Club Getaways Camp John Waters (there's currently a waitlist), offering a weekend in the woods of Kent, Connecticut with everyone's favorite pencil-'stached homo-con and featuring activities like “Hairspray” karaoke, burlesque lessons, a JW film marathon and a one-man showfromMr. CounterCulturehimself.
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 splits his time between homes in New York City and the Jersey Shore with his dog Jaxon. Connect with Mikey on Twitter @mikeyrox. Hotspots Central Florida HotSpotsCentral.LGBT
hot bodies
W
by tom bonanti
Fortify Yourself Against Colds and The Flu This Season!
We are lucky here in South Florida for many reasons, not the least of which is our fabulous, tropical weather. One thing we can't escape is the onslaught of flu season which seems to set in and claim its victims everywhere around this timeeveryyearlikeclockwork. Flu is a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses. It can be mild to very severe with symptoms that include fever, headache, fatigue, body aches, dry cough, sore throat and runny nose. People with the flu may feel nauseous and have vomiting and diarrhea, although these symptoms are more common in children than adults. Flu can lead to pneumonia and other serious illnesses for people who are particularly vulnerable such as those with compromisedimmunesystems.
November through March is Flu Season in the United States. While a flu shot is the best protection against the virus, there are several other waystohelpavoidtheflu: • Stay home if you are sick. That means the gym too! Working out while you are sick will cause more harm than good. Never even attempt to work out with a fever, body aches and chills. Rest and drink plentyoffluids. • Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when youcoughorsneeze. • Wash your hands often to avoid spreading germs. • Avoid touching your nose, mouth or eyes to helpkeepgermsfromenteringyourbody.
It is especially important for people who fall into one of the following high- risk categories outlined bytheCentersforDiseaseControltogetaflushot: • Childrenage6-59monthsandtheirhousehold contactsandoutofhomecaregivers. • Women who will be pregnant during the flu season. • Peopleaged50orolder. • People of any age who have certain chronic medicalconditions. • Peoplewhocareforanyoneathighrisk.
• Healthcareworkers. Those at high risk should contact their primary care physicianstodiscusswhereandwhentogettheflushot. SomeHealthyMeasurestoWardOffthe“Bug”. • Get lots of fresh air. Take fresh air breaks at work and invest in some leafy plants for your workplace. The air in the workplace and in closed- up planes can beespeciallytoxic. • Get sufficient sleep to give your body time to repair,replenish,anddetoxifyitself. • Keep stress in check, as it can depress the immune system. • Don't forget your workouts: daily exercise helps to boostyourimmunesystem. • Drink 6-8 glasses of water a day to ensure hydration. • Eat lots of brightly colored veggies and fruits loaded with vitamin “C” to help keep your immune systemstrong. • Stay away from fast foods and sugary foods as thesecandragyourimmunesystemdown.
“Flu can lead to pneumonia and other serious illnesses for people who are particularly vulnerable such as those with compromised immune systems.”
Contact Tom at trainertomb@aol.com questions. Visit my one on one gym at www.pumpnincgym.com or call today (954) 557-1119 to set up a free consultation. Hotspots Central Florida HotSpotsCentral.LGBT
Blending a familiar feeling of community, with a fresh sense of freedom and opportunity. At The Nolen, it’s all part of the plan. Make Clearwater’s hippest address your own.
thenolen.com • 727-308-4169
around tampa bay
by amy demilo
Esme Russell has found the Fountain of Youth at the Dali Museum.
Steam Friday’s Ybor City!
Honorary Miss Florida, Michael, with Miss Heart of Florida Co-Owner, Marshall.
Joseph showing off
DJ Drew G
his guns!
spinning in Tampa.
queens we by scott holland photos by the drag photographer & jeffrey kelly
I
In the last few years the State of Florida has been KILLING IT on the National Pageantry scene. The latest to conquer, is Tampa's own Kenya M. Black who recently won the title of Miss Gay USofA at Large and is also the current reigning Miss Tampa Pride. As we are celebrating pride this month, I though it appropriate to sit down with Kenya and findoutmoreabouther!
What was the first drag show you saw and tell me about the experience? The first Drag show I was at was in Pulse in Orlando about 9 years ago. It was Roxxxy Andrews, Blade Matthews, and Angelica Sanchez. I was in awe. The glitz,theglamour,andthebeauty!
When did you decide you wanted to do drag and when did you realize it would be a profession? I decided after that night at Pulse. After watching Angelica perform I knew this was something I wanted to do for my life time, as she was so inspiring and I saw so much of myself in her. I decided I wanted to make it a profession after going to USofA newcomer my first time. The love and respect that was shown to me was heartwarming. To know that I can touch people through dressing like a woman, it wasIhadtodoforever
Who is your drag mother and who is your favorite queen other than your drag mother and why? My drag mothers are Aysia Black and Alicia Markstone. Those ladies saw so much potential in
Kenya
M. Black
me and pushed me to be the queen I am today. And my favorite would be my sister and mentor Alexis Mateo. She is so passionate about the art form of drag. Shekeepsmeonmytoesandkeepsmefresh.
What's your favorite number to perform and why? My favorite number would be Fergilicious by Fergie. It shows all sides of me as a performer and a person. It's always a crowd pleasure and the energy from the songgetsmybloodflowing
“The love and respect that was shown to me was heartwarming. To know that I can touch people through dressing like a woman, it was I had to do forever.”
What's the best thing that has happened to you in drag? The best thing that has happened to me in drag is winning Miss Gay USofA at Large. I've had so many people believe in me but I always doubted myself. I've done a few national pageants and made the top 5, but never thought I was good enough. Winning Miss Gay USofA at Large lit a fire under me. And the flamewon'tbegoingoutanytimesoon.
Speaking of Gay USofA do you remember how exciting it felt be crowned and how has it changed your life? It was beyond exciting. I have been wanting to be a part of the USofA system for a while now. I was always afraid to do an at large pageant because I didn't want to be seen as "fat" but after talking with so many people the best thing was to be myself and be comfortable in my skin. So winning Miss Gay USofA at Large has opened so many doors for me career wise, but has also made me a mentor. I didn't realize how many girls I would be helping once I won. .
What differentiates you from other Queens (Makes you Unique)? What makes me unique is that you never know what you might get from my performance. You will always get Kenya, but you never know which one. It's the Geminiinme…LOL!
What does the future hold? My future is limitless. I just want to do drag and make a nameformyselfuntilthewheelsfalloff!
To find out more information about Kenya, follow her on Faccebook.com/ kenya m. black Hotspots Central Florida HotSpotsCentral.LGBT
Photos by J.D. Casto
How long have you been together? Just about 8 years.
How did you meet? Mutual friends on Facebook. A couple of “likes� goes a long way.
Favorite place for date night? We're pretty low key, so we'll either grab a bite and a movie in Centro Ybor, or drink some homemade cocktails and play video games together.
Favorite pride event to attend? We love Tampa Pride. We live in Ybor, so it's amazing to see our neighborhood transformed by the festivities and spend the day with our friends.
“He can easily put me in the best of mood with his smile. ” —Anthony
COUPLES EDITION
Anthony Muscolino & Hunter Taylor
Hotspots Central Florida HotSpotsCentral.LGBT
“I love how he breaks me out of my shell, plays pranks on me and we can just laugh together.” —Hunter
Favorite bar in Tampa? We gravitate towards Southern Nights when we go out — the drag shows are always great!
Favorite restaurant in Tampa? Depends on who you ask. Hunter is vegan, so he loves getting the grilled tempeh sandwich from Bodega. Anthony has a big sweet tooth, and he's always craving the bread pudding from 4 Rivers Smokehouse.
Something that Anthony absolutely adores about Hunter? I love Hunter's sense of adventure and ability to make the best of any situation. He can easily put me in the best mood with his smile. I think the key to success for us is making the best of everything and being grateful for our experiences.
Something that Hunter absolutely adores about Anthony? Anthony is such a goofball, and I tend to be more serious and reserved. I love how he breaks me out of my shell, plays pranks on me and we can just laugh together. He's also such a curious person, so I'm always learning something new from Anthony.
Favorite vacation spot? We recently have a new found love for San Francisco! But we also take annual trips to NYC.
Favorite hobby to do as a couple? We love taking short road trips on the weekends to explore all the nooks and crannies of Florida. You'll see us acting like tourists, taking photos and flying our drone.
Car Buying
Made Easy
M
by peter clark
whattobuy
Most people are often very uncomfortable with the process of buying a vehicle and rightly so. It's damn hard to keep up with current trends, purchase options, screaming car ads, not to mention everchanging technology. Let me try to make it easier for you so you won't be pulling your hair out in a showroom somewhere with a salesperson telling you“thathehastocheckwithmanager”. So, before you venture out into the car buying jungle and let your endorphins kick in with that 'new carsmell',thinkaboutthesethreekeypoints: 1. What do you want? 2. What do you need? 3. What can you afford? If you can't answer these basic questions, then you are not ready to make the second largest investment in your life besides your home. Think about it… “I want a Bentley coupe, I need a full-size SUV, I can afford a hatchback”. So, balance these three key factors by using both emotional and rational side of your brain. Hopefully the rational sidewinstheday.
Remember how many times your teacher told you that knowledge is power? That adage remains true to this day. The first thing I suggest is decide the type of vehicle you need. Coupe or sedan, SUV or pick up… you get it. Once you do that then venture out into the wilds of the open road and check out the vehicles around you that fit your vehicle type. Take time the next time you stop for groceries or meet your friends for a drink to check out what other peopleare driving. It's the 'birds ofa feather' theory. If you are at the gym see what your like-minded friends are driving, I bet it will be a lot different then whatyoumightseeattheToysRUsparkinglot. Don't forget to get free advice from people you know, they are always eager to ram it down your throat (well at least mine anyway). Ask them about their vehicle, especially if they just bought it. Why did the choose that model? Are they happy with it? How was the deal… You get it, after all their favorite subject is usually them and their possessions. Don't get me wrong, I am not saying all gay men are narcissistic,justdon'taskmyhusband…
2. Get Preapproved for a Loan A preapproved car loan starts you on the right foot. You get an idea of how much you can afford, and you'll have an interest rate that you can then compare to other offers.
3. Plan Your Trade-In If you have a trade-in it's important to get your trade-in value before you go to the dealership.
OnLineResourcesandApps
Now that we have talked about the decision process and you've decided on a must-have Bentley (ok Honda) it's time to put online tools out there to work for you before you race to the dealer's lot. Check out thesesites: 路 TrueCar.com 路 KBB.com 路 Cars.com 路 Edmunds.com
4. Locate and Test-Drive the Car By now, you've settled on a few car candidates. You should see them in person before deciding.
5. Check Sale Price and Warranties Once you have a target car, it's time to focus on getting a price. Call, text or email the internet sales department of three dealerships that have the car you want. The best price will be obvious.
6. Review the Deal and Dealer Financing
Here's an example of what Edmunds can help you with: 1. Research Vehicles and Features Not sure what car you want yet? The Edmunds app and website have just about all the information you need, including expert and owner reviews.
Now that you have a price quote for the car, your big question is probably whether it's competitive. Also, some dealerships have credit applications on their websites and you can fill one out. If the interest rate is lower than the one in your preapproved loan, go for it.
7. Close the Deal If the price, financing and fees look right, it's time to say yes to the deal.
8. Take Delivery Hotspots Central Florida HotSpotsCentral.LGBT
hot shots photos by tony fowler
Flamingo Resort Turnabout