Friday, 30 June 2017
Thursday, 29 June 2017
Wednesday, 28 June 2017
Q&A: John Thorpe Talks Revival Pool Party Benefit
Joe Soler and John Thorpe are presenting Revival Pool Party, a fundraiser for Poverello, this Saturday, July 1 from 1-5 p.m. at Yoga Drive (2554 NE 9th Avenue) in Wilton Manors.
We chatted with John to find out more about this charity event.
Q: When did Revival Pool Party start and what was its original purpose?
A: In 1995 in Raleigh NC. It was modeled after the party called “Phoenix Rising” in Miami that was held after the White and Winter parties. The funds from Revival went to the Duke Infectious Clinic. DJ Buc and Kitty Meow were the artists that performed at the first Revival in 1995.
Q: When did it move to South Florida?
A: In the summer of 2014, Joe Soler and I were at a friend’s house for a cookout and I told him that I wanted to do a ‘90s circuit party event that brought back the amazing music from those parties. He contacted Hunters Nightclub and we had the first Revival in South Florida on Thanksgiving Friday 2014, featuring DJ Robbie Leslie and Kitty Meow.
Q: How did you and Joe get involved with Revival?
A: I started Revival in 1995 and named it based on the energy that music can do for your soul. Also, being in the South, Revival seemed the appropriate name of the event. I approached Joe in 2014 due to him being a personal friend and the fact that he organizes parties very well.
Q: Why did you pick Poverello as the charity?
A: I am a strong supporter that no one should go hungry, especially when they are managing a chronic illness. In addition, I have always respected and appreciated what Father Bill started in the ‘80s and what the organization continues to do today. I have several friends that are clients of the Poverello Food Bank. Also my husband, Jay Feldman, is on the board of Poverello. Jay and I started an annual Thanksgiving brunch when we moved here in 2007 where guests bring donated food items or donations for Poverello. Last Thanksgiving, due to donations and matching funds, we collected over $11,000 from the one event!
Q: Are you excited to have iconic DJ David Knapp as your maestro and the one and only Kitty Meow as your hostess?
A: Absolutely—YES! Joe Soler and I chose the DJs for all Revival South Florida events and David Knapp was my first choice for this event when we decided to do a pool party. I always enjoyed hearing David play at Amnesia tea dances when I would visit South Beach in the ‘90s, and to have two icons from that era in Miami Beach at this event is very exciting.
Tickets for Revival Pool Party are $50 in advance at EventBrite.com or $60 at the door and includes open bar and food.
source https://hotspotsmagazine.com/2017/06/28/qa-john-thorpe-talks-revival-pool-party-benefit/
What’s Hot South Florida: June 29 – July 4
Thursday, June 29
Logo’s “Gay for Play Game Show Starring RuPaul” will return with six new episodes tonight at 9p.m. The fun-filled trivia series, with Emmy award winning host RuPaul, features pop culture savvy contestants competing to win over $5,000 in cash prizes. You don’t need to be gay to play, but it sure does help! The “Gay for Play” panel features Michelle Visage, Todrick Hall, Carson Kressley and Ross Mathews as regular panelists, along with a rotating panel of former “RuPaul’s Drag Race” contestants, social influencers and celebrities. Guest panelists will include Kristen Johnston (“The Exes”), comedian Michelle Buteau, Gretchen Rossi (“Real Housewives of O.C.”), former “Real Housewives of Beverly Hills” castmember Taylor Armstrong, comedian Heather McDonald, Brandi Glanville (“Real Housewives of Beverly Hills”), Frankie Grande (“Big Brother”) and Cheyenne Jackson (“American Horror Story”).
Impact 17 presents, “The Essential Music, Tech, Fashion, & Art Conference” at the Watsco Center on the campus of The University of Miami. IMPACT 17′ provides a platform for industry leaders and influencers to share their stories with young spirited entrepreneurs of tomorrow. The event features a fashion show featuring Designer/Model Draya Michele’s Mint Swim Collection, Pop Up Shops & Art Gallery highlighting Miami’s most notable street and contemporary artists, and a round table discussion with tech, fashion, and music industry leaders. The event closes out with a special live performance by Grammy nominated artist DJ Khaled. General Admission is $39, $79, and$99 and VIP Tickets are $249. Tickets can be purchased online at impact17mia.com.
The Miami Dade Gay and Lesbian Chamber of Commerce presents Refreshingly Blue in Doral. This is a Spotlight mega-mixer networker from 6-9p.m. at Provident Doral at the Blue (5300NW 87TH Avenue). Admission is $10 for members nad $20 for others and features cocktails, food bites, music, entertainment and a free drawing for great prizes. RSVP at GayBizMiami.com.
Saturday, July 1
Starting today and going through July 4, Adams Interiors is have an Independence Day Sale with discounts of up to 50% off. Check out their ad in this week’s mag or stop by their beautiful store at 3900 N Federal Highway, Fort Lauderdale.
Georgie’s Alibi/Monkey Bar’s House Of Alibi Saturdays features an Independence Day Pre Party starring DJ La Trice Perry.
The Club Fort Lauderdale will be featuring their annual 6 Month Membership Sale starting tonight and going through July 4th. They will have a Poolside luncheon on all 4 of those days at 1p.m. In addition, tonight they feature their monthly Res-Erection Naked Blackout event at 10 PM. This is always a sold-out event so get there early!
The Manor Complex, direct from “RuPaul’s Drag Race” Season 9, Nina Bo’Nina Brown with DJ Sushiman on the turntables. In the Ivy Dance Room and Patio, Noche Latina Saturdays presents “Independence Party” starring Champagne Bordeaux, Rossette Enchanted, resident DJ Larry Larr and sexy Latin Go-Go Papis. Saturdays at the Manor Complex are from 11 p.m. to 4 a.m. and feature no cover before midnight and only $7 after midnight for members and $10 for non-members ($12 for 18-20 years old)
Bigger Saturdays at Score presents “Action…Born in the USA,” starring DJ/Producer Tom Stephan and DJ Alex Ramos.
The Ramrod presents Pig Dance #107 (first Saturday of every month) featuring the sounds of DJ/Producer Barry Huffine from 10pm. to 3 a.m.
Sunday, July 2
Victor Zepka, Alyson Thomas and the entire Boardwalk staff presents a Memorial for my friend and the community’s friend, Marty Reagan. Most of you know Marty from his many years as the General Manger of O’Zone. From the moment I met him Marty was a beacon of light in my life, and always had nice things to say. Come celebrate Marty’s life form 2pm to 5 pm with entertainment, food, and great memories of a true gentleman! If you would like to speak or perform, please contact Victor or Alyson at 954-463-6969.
Luis Morera and Raul Vegas present “Swet: White and Blue XXL Pool Party” at The Hall (1500 Collins Avenue) from 1 to 7pm powered by Score Nightclub. The event will star DJs Hannah and Yazz Burrell and feature state of the art sound, an unbelievable LED Wall (Vizion L.E.D Events), beautiful dancers, VIP Cabanas, Lockers, and a variety of Food Available, and hostesses Athena Dion Valeria Courtier. General admission is only $10 in advance at Purplepass.com.
Monday, July 3
Score presents the Xlsior Mykonos Official Pre-Party featuring the music of DJs Dani Toro and Hansell Leyva. Advance tickets are available at ShowClix.com.
Georgie’s Alibi/Monkey Business presents a 4th of July Pre Party from 9 pm to 2 am starring DJ AJ Reddy.
Tuesday, July 4
Scandals Saloon presents Walters Fourth of July Pot Luck BBQ from 2-4pm on the patio. Contact Walter for details or to sign up to bring a dish at 269-830-2360.
This is HOT
Barefoot Wine has announced two NEW “wine-in-a-can” Refresh Spritzer varietals – Moscato Spritzer and Rosé Spritzer! With white and rosé both popular in the Summer time, this alternative to bottled wine offers vino lovers a crisp, refreshing way to enjoy Barefoot Wines anywhere, anytime. That’s right – #YeahYouCAN enjoy wine – without the glass!
Barefoot Refresh Spritzer cans are ideal for poolside sipping, beach bummin’, tangy barbecues and any other occasion when you want a taste of Summer. Easy to pack, these sleek, 8.4-ounce cans fit perfectly in coolers and ice chests, so you can take them on-the-go.
The Moscato Refresh Spritzer offers a fruity and light bodied taste, with aromas of peach and tangerine for a juicy and sweet finish. The Rosé Refresh Spritzer has vibrant tasting notes, with aromas of Mandarin orange and peach, with complimenting flavors of raspberry and cherry. Just like the rest of the Barefoot’s canned portfolio, the Moscato and Rosé Spritzers taste terrific over ice, mixed in a cocktail and, of course, straight from a chilled can.
Barefoot’s newest Spritzers are available nationwide and UNDER $10 for a 4-pack!
source https://hotspotsmagazine.com/2017/06/28/whats-hot-south-florida-june-29-july-4/
Palace: End of an Era on Ocean Drive
Palace, the iconic gay restaurant and bar on Ocean Drive that is world-renowned for its live drag performances, is celebrating its last weekend at the corner on 12th Street and Ocean Drive with a splash, ending three decades of what can only be described as a remarkable history.
Plans call for Palace to re-open at another unidentified location.
It’s fitting that the final celebration will be a big one this July 4th weekend for the establishment which has served the famous — and the infamous — at its 1200 Ocean Drive location.
A long-time popular haunt for celebrities — Andy Cohen, Nene Leakes, and Perez Hilton have
been spotted dining outside the eatery just recently, and in the old days Luciano Pavarotti, Elton John, Madonna and Princess Diana were frequently spotted at the restaurant.
Steve Palsar launched Palace in February 1988. Miami was a much different city and at that time there were no other restaurants on the Drive. Everyone thought Palsar was crazy to introduce one, but he did. Palace opened at 1200 Ocean Drive — Palsar’s “little slice of heaven,” as he called it — and it would usher in a whole new era that would eventually lead to cafes up and down the street.
“The truth of the matter is that this situation presents us with a fantastic opportunity to grow,” says owner Thomas Donall. “We’re going to find a new place that has the same character but offers a bigger performance space that better suits the needs of our changing community”.
It was a pleasure to sit down with Thomas for this exclusive Hotspots interview:
Q: When and why did you move down to South Florida?
A: I had been coming down to South Beach for 15 years and fell in love with [the place], so I decided to make the move. I made the decision to buy a condo on Ocean Drive.
Q: What did you do for work before you moved here?
A: I was a metal artist for many years and then I had an opportunity to open my own club. I designed and built two clubs in Michigan and basically furnished the clubs with all of my designs.
Q: What made you decide to purchase the Palace 10 years ago?
A: I walked by it so many times going to the gym, and I felt the place needed some TLC. I gave the manager my card to give to the owners and the transaction happened three weeks later.
Q: What was the first thing you changed after purchasing the Palace?
A: I spent the first weeks cleaning and painting giving the place the love it deserved and got the front bar open. In that time-frame I replaced the sound system and staff. We as a team worked together to make it a fun place for the community to call home.
Q: How has the Palace changed in the last 10 years?
A: I brought in shows seven days a week and became part of the community by being involved with a lot of the agencies in Miami (Task Force, Care Resource, and others). I also started the block parties three times a year, which are huge and raise money for important organizations. Palace has been a platform for our new LGBTQ generation and has opened many doors for our house entertainers such as Latrice Royale, Tiffany Fantasia, DJ Cindel, DJ Deanne, Noel Leon and many more.
Q: Are you excited about the move of Palace?
A: The move is challenging, but things happen for a reason. It’s exciting in that we have an opportunity to take the Palace to the next level.
Q: There are so many rumors about where the Palace is going to move to. Do you want to comment on that?
A: I have some places in mind, but I am still looking and haven’t made a decision yet. I promise, however, the community will be happy when it’s all said and done.
Q: What should the South Florida audience expect from the closing party of Palace at its current location this Tuesday, July 4?
A: We will have many give-a-ways (Palace hats, t-shirts, tanks, etc.), two brunches, and after the second brunch a block party that will be over the top! This includes International DJ Dan Slater (Australia), GO-GO Dancers, and drag performers. This will be a block party with amazing sound and lighting production, which will be followed by an incredible fireworks display sponsored by the Ocean Drive Business Association. The block party start at 4 p.m. to midnight with fireworks at 9 p.m.
Tuesday, July 4 will be the final day of Palace at 1200 Ocean Drive and they will be bringing in special lights, sound and production for the last dance. “This is not farewell,” confirms Donall. “It’s a ‘see ya soon.’” Those who wish to be among the first to know about the new location should text the word PALACE to 64600.
source https://hotspotsmagazine.com/2017/06/28/palace-end-of-an-era-on-ocean-drive/
Events Guide: South Florida’s July 4th Celebrations
When I think of Independence Day, I think of BBQs, picnics, carnivals, rides, the beach, fireworks, and all the other things that bring family and friends together for a day of celebration and fun. Here’s some of what’s happening all over South Florida on July 4th.
Broward County
Sunrise: Baha Men/The Romantics Concert July 4th Celebration Outdoor Festival at the BB&T Center (1 Panther Pkwy). Gates open at 5 p.m. and the festivities include music, fireworks, food and beverage vendors, children’s rides and inflatables. The music starts at 6 p.m. with the Baha Men (“Who Let the Dogs Out”). Headliners The Romantics (“Talking in Your Sleep,” “What I Like About You”) take the stage at 7:30 p.m. The evening concludes with the 9 p.m. fireworks spectacular.
Coral Springs: Fourth of July Celebration at Mullins Park (10000 Ben Geiger Dr.) from 6 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. Entertainment begins at 6 p.m. and includes bounce houses and music. There will be a nominal fee for kid’s craft activities, food and refreshments. Grand fireworks display is set to begin promptly at 9 p.m. Parking fee is $3 at the Coral Springs Gymnasium, Mullins Park and the Center for the Arts.
Plantation: Independence Day Celebration, “Music of America” at Plantation Central Park (9151 NW Second St.) from 9 a.m. to 9:30p.m. The schedule of events is parade at 9 a.m. beginning at West Broward Boulevard and NW 46th Avenue, heading west to 69th Avenue, to Northwest Fourth Street, ending at City Hall with an awards ceremony. Big City Dogs, a classic rock and blues band, performs at 7 p.m. at Central Park ball fields. Purchase food or bring a picnic dinner, lawn chairs or blanket. Zambelli fireworks will be presented at 9 p.m.
Davie Flamingo Gardens Old-Fashioned July 4th takes place at Flamingo Gardens (3750 S. Flamingo Road) from 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Celebrate Independence Day the old-fashioned way with games, 30s and 40s music by DJ Digital Anarchy and costume contests. Everyone can enjoy sack race, hula hoop, watermelon and pie eating contests. Mr. and Mrs. Wray will be serving up some of Mrs. Wray’s famous BBQ ribs in the historic BBQ Pavillion.
Lauderdale-By-The-Sea: Fourth of July Celebration, presented by the city’s Volunteer Fire Department, begins with a parade at 10 a.m. by the fire station on Bougainvillea Drive (behind Town Hall, 4501 N. Ocean Drive), heading north to Pine Avenue, east to El Mar Drive, south to Hibiscus Avenue and then west to Bougainvillea before heading north and returning to the fire station. Family Fun on the 4th Day, from 11 a.m.-3 p.m. at El Prado Park, will feature a waterslide and fire truck for the kids, as well as other fun activities. Holiday fare will include hot dogs, lemonade and other kid-friendly food. Fireworks will be shot off the beach, just north of El Prado Park.
Hollywood Beach: Star-spangled Spectacular Celebration at Charnow Park (1500 N. Boardwalk) from 2 p.m. to 10 p.m. Summertime has arrived as family and friends prepare to gather on the beach, enjoying the splash pad, music, beach games or just relaxing under an umbrella. The celebration concludes with a patriotic offshore fireworks display at 9 p.m. Buses to the beach will run from 5 to 8 p.m. Returning shuttles will operate between 9:30 and 11 p.m.
Miramar: Independence Day Celebration and Amphitheater Grand Opening – at Miramar Regional Park (16801 Miramar Parkway) from 3p.m. to 9:30p.m. The festivities include a Kids’ Zone with inflatables and face painting. There will also be hula hoop, bubble gum and apple pie eating contests, as well as caricature artists. Fireworks finale is approximately at 9 p.m.
Pembroke Pines: Independence Day Celebration at Pines Recreation Center,
(7400 Pines Blvd.), from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. There will be music and food from 6 to 9 p.m. Fireworks show begins at 9 p.m.
Dade County
Coconut Grove: 4th of July Picnic & Fireworks – This annual old-fashioned Picnic is 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at The Barnacle Historic State Park (3485 Main Highway, 305-442-6866) and features music, food, games and crafts. Admission is $5 for ages 13 and older, $3 for ages 6-12. CocoWalk (3015 Grand Ave.) has patriotic activities planned from 3 to 7 p.m. as well as the traditional Hot Dog Eating Competition at 6 p.m. The celebration then heads over to Peacock Park from 6 to 9 p.m. where there will be music, games and face painting. Fireworks show is at 9 p.m.
Miami: America’s Birthday Bash takes place at Bayfront Park (301 N Biscayne Blvd) from 3p.m. to 9:30 p.m. The park is open all day for lots of fun. The younger set will enjoy Kids’ Zone from 3-7 p.m. There will also be music, and food and beverages may be purchased. Fireworks are shot off barges in Biscayne Bay at 9:00 p.m.
Hialeah: Independence Day Celebration takes place at Ted Hendricks Stadium (4700 Palm Avenue) from 5 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. With a variety of food trucks, activities at the Kids Zone, and even a live concert, this event will be one that you can’t miss. The finale is a fireworks and laser show.
Miami Gardens: 4th of July Celebration of Family, Community and Freedom takes place at the Betty T. Ferguson Recreational Complex (3000 NW 199th St.) from 5p.m. to 9:30p.m. Bounce houses, 3-on-3 basketball, flag football, classic games, kids’ zone, food trucks and indoor pool are all part of the fun. Fireworks are scheduled for 9 p.m.
Coral Gables: Fourth of July Celebration takes place at the Biltmore Hotel (1200 Anastasia Ave.) from 7p.m. to 9:30 p.m). This year’s event will include patriotic music by the Greater Miami Symphonic Band at 7 p.m. Grounds open to the public at 5 p.m. Complimentary shuttle service starts at 5 p.m. The fireworks display launches at 9 p.m.
Miami: 4th of July Paddle & Dinner at the Virginia Key Outdoor Center (3801 Rickenbacker Causeway) from 6:30 p.m. – 11:30 p.m. The 9th annual Fireworks Paddle offers the best view of multiple fireworks. You can watch from your kayak or paddleboard. Landlubbers can watch from the beach. Included are dinner, drinks, paddle or hike. Pre-registration is required (no walk-ins allowed). Cook-out starts at 6 p.m. You may bring beer or wine, just remember to drink in moderation. Firework Paddle: Launch time is 8 p.m. Fireworks start at 9 p.m. What you can expect to see from the water: fireworks from South Beach and Bayfront Park shows from the comfort of our flotilla; Also, Coconut Grove, Key Biscayne and Fisher Island. The route is sheltered and away from direct boat channel traffic. They skirt the coast to avoid the other crazies.
Independence Day Concert at the Shepard & Ruth K. Broad Performing Arts Center (11300 Northeast 2nd Avenue) from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. Join them for a celebratory performance of America’s most thrilling music. Yuriy Bekker will conduct the MMF Orchestra through a program that captures the spirit of the holiday, with bombastic works like Tchaikovsky’s Overture of 1812, Copeland’s Fanfare for the Common Man, and selections from the patriotic songbook of John Philip Sousa. The whole family is invited to salute the flag with us as we honor our nation’s birthday with this special evening of orchestral hits.
Turnberry Isle Miami’s “Sparktacular” Fourth of July BBQ and Show at the Turnberry Isle Miami (19999 West Country Club Drive) from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. Locals and hotel guests are welcome to partake in patriotic festivities, enjoy live music and savor classic American barbecue on the resort’s golf course. Admission is $50-$199, and includes fireworks and premium seating, live band, complimentary all-American BBQ and catered food trucks, complimentary beer, wine, iced tea, lemonade and complimentary valet
Palm Beach County
Deerfield Beach: 4th of July Celebration at the Main Beach Parking Lot
(149 SE 21st Ave.), starting at 12 p.m. The activities include music, arts and crafts and food vendors. Stick around for the fireworks at 9 p.m.
Royal Palm Beach: Star Spangled Spectacular at the Royal Palm Beach Commons Park (11600 Poinciana Blvd.). Star-Spangled Spectacular kicks off at 1 p.m. with a Kids Fun Zone featuring carnival-style rides, slides and games. It runs until 8 p.m. and requires a wristband purchase of $10 per child. Over 20 gourmet food trucks will be part of the Food Truck Invasion. Arts and crafts vendors will be selling local artists’ wares, local musicians will be providing entertainment throughout the day. In addition, there will be volleyball, cornhole and bass fishing tournaments as well as paddle board and kayak rentals. Lawn chairs and blankets are permitted. Zambelli Fireworks International Show begins at 9:00 p.m.
West Palm Beach: 4th on Flagler at the Waterfront Promenade & City Commons
(101 N. Flagler Drive) from 5p.m. to 10p.m. The large outdoor Independence Day celebration features two stages of local acts, military honor ceremony, larger-than-life versions of games like human foosball and bowling, as well as free kids’ activities. Food and drink options will be available for purchase. An 18-minute fireworks extravaganza begins at 9 p.m.
Boca Raton: 4th of July Fireworks Block Party, Hotdog Eating Contest takes place at the Tilted Kilt Pub and Eatery (3320 Airport Road) from 5 p.m. to 11 p.m. Two Eds band 5 p.m., kids’ activities (bounce house, inflatable sumo wrestling, face painting, balloon artists), craft breweries sampling ($5 for 6 sample tickets). RSVP: $25 VIP Seating, $25 Hotdog Eating Contest entry fee.
Green Acres: Ignite the Night Independence Day Celebration at the Greenacres Community Park (2905 Jog Road). This annual patriotic celebration from 5:30 to 10 p.m. features music by The Groove, “Most Patriotic Dressed” contest, stilt walker, rides, games, arts and crafts and food vendors. Fireworks take off at 9 p.m.
source https://hotspotsmagazine.com/2017/06/28/events-guide-south-floridas-july-4th-celebrations/
Five Questions with Actor/Director Ronnie Larson
Ronnie Larsen is a highly-acclaimed Fort Lauderdale-based actor, director and playwright who has been entertaining South Florida audiences for years — but his stature and influence in theater extends well beyond Florida. His productions have been seen in every major city in America, as well as in Canada, Australia, Italy and London.
Twelve of his plays have been produced and five have been seen Off-Broadway in New York City. He has also made a documentary that had theatrical runs at the Castro Theatre in San Francisco, Cinema Village in New York City and the Laemmle 5 in Los Angeles as well as showings at numerous film festivals in America, England and the Berlin Film Festival.
His current production, Happy Ending, which the Sun-Sentinel’s Rod Hagwood called, “a thriller, comedy, drama or sex romp (or all of those),” opened at the Andrews Living Arts Studio on June 22 and plays through July 16.
Q: What attracted you to the theater — when and how did you get started?
A: I don’t remember a time when I wasn’t interested in theater. I remember my dad had a ton of books and a few plays and for some reason I was only interested in the plays. I memorized a speech from Death of a Salesman when I was about 7 and I went around saying, “Attention must be paid, attention must be paid.” I was very dramatic. And I loved dressing up! In the 6th grade I wrote my first play called The Elf Play and I was hooked on theater but I didn’t write another play ‘til I was 25. Acting became my obsession. Writing plays sort of happened by accident.
Q: Among your many achievements in theater, five of the 12 plays you’ve produced have made it to Off-Broadway. Was that something you set out to do?
A: My goal was to be a working Shakespearean actor. Shakespeare was my focus until I was 25. I was doing lots of Shakespeare plays in San Francisco and nobody cared and the shows weren’t very good and I made no money and then someone said I should write a play about my sex life because critics in San Francisco only cared about new plays and audiences want to see plays about sex. So I wrote a play called Scenes From My Love Life and it was a hit and I made a little money and got some good press, so then I wrote my second play, Making Porn, and it ran for 500 performances Off-Broadway and my whole life changed. But I never set out to be a playwright, it just sort of happened and now I’m 48 and I’ve been writing plays ever since going on 25 years.
Q: What inspires you, Ronnie? Where do the ideas come from that you put on paper and then on stage?
A: Audiences inspire me. Watching an audience enjoy a show and the laughter and the silences when a whole audience are enjoying your show, it’s a drug for me. I write for an audience. I want them to be entertained. I always say that if my first play had been a disaster I might not have written a second play, but once I figured out that I could write things that would make people laugh or connect or recognize themselves on stage…I was hooked. I put things on stage that I want to see. I get bored very easily, so if I get an idea that entertains me and holds my interest then I’m pretty sure it will entertain others.
Q: Theater seems to be thriving in South Florida. How would you describe the local scene and the variety, as well as quality, of shows being produced?
A: I would argue that the theater scene in South Florida is one of the healthiest scenes in the country because a wide variety of shows succeed here and audiences in South Florida love going to the theater. That’s not true of a lot of places in this country. I actually feel like like I’m in the perfect place at the perfect time.
Q: What’s next for Ronnie Larsen? To borrow a line from Evita, ‘where do you go from here?’
A: I didn’t work in the theater for a chunk of time because I got sort of burnt out and then I met my husband and he didn’t have a green card so we were living in Mexico together and waiting on the Supreme Court. So I know what it’s like to be deprived of doing what you love. Now that my husband and I are in the states together, I’m just so grateful to be working again. My goal is to keep doing exactly what I’m doing and not take any of it for granted. I’m also really interested in producing new plays by unestablished playwrights. There are so many great shows out there that have only been produced once or twice and never got published and never got produced in New York, Besides doing my own plays I want to bring those type of shows to South Florida and possibly tour them. My goal is to just keep working and keep trying to entertaining audiences.
Ronnie Larsen’s popular show “Happy Ending” has returned to Fort Lauderdale at a larger venue, the Andrews Living Arts Studio, where it will play through July 16. The show contains nudity. For tickets and information, go to RonnieLarsen.com.
source https://hotspotsmagazine.com/2017/06/28/five-questions-with-actordirector-ronnie-larson/
Tuesday, 27 June 2017
Queens We Love: Missy Meyakie LePaige
Q: What was the first drag show you saw? Tell us about the experience…
A: The first drag show I saw back home in St Louis starred Miss Kiki Kortell, Kitty Litter, Miss Regina, Commille Simpson, Vicky Valentino and a host of others — I was amazed. Being sheltered, all I knew was church, church, and more church, and I had never seen anything like this at all! I was speechless. Thank you, ladies, I’ve learned so much from all your hard work and dedication to this art!
When did you decide you wanted to do drag and when did you realize it would be a profession?
In 2003 I entered this competition show and had no clue on how it should be done, but I won! I continued on after I won. I wasn’t the prettiest thing, but I knew I had the gift to entertain and captivate a crowd. When I moved here and started to be a cast member at the legendary Palace is when I realized this is what I wanted to do for a living. Look at me now!
Q: Who is your drag mother and who is your favorite queen other than your drag mother?
A: My drag mother is Victoria LePaige from Chicago; I have the honor to carry her last name. My Florida drag mom is Ciara Douglas. These two ladies have been such a big help in my career from talks, meals, ideas, and sometimes just a huge shoulder to lean on. I’m so grateful for these lovely, beautiful individuals. You’re going to get me in trouble if I pick one when it comes to my fave queen, because there are so many I love. Some of them are Melissa, Myhia (my daughter) Athena Dion, Calypso Lords, TP Lords, Fantasia GaGa, Chevelle Brooks, Latrice Royale, Tlo Ivy, Elishaly d’witshes, Akeria Davenport, Kalah Mendoza, Joanna James, and Marci Mogul — just to name of few! I have learned a lot from these individuals!
Q: What’s your favorite number to perform and why?
A: I have two favorite numbers to perform:: “Don’t Stop Believing,” and “No Place I’d Rather Be.” I love these two songs, because no matter what I have or will ever face in life I have got to keep believing in order to get to my destination. There is no place I would rather be than with my friends, family and fans!
Q: What’s the best thing that has happened to you in drag?
A: The best two things that ever happened to me is winning my first national title (showgirl), and also watching how all [the little kids] give me so much love. It’s the best feeling ever—they are our future.
Q: What differentiates you from other Queens?
A: What sets me apart from other queens is I’m like the “mother” to all. It’s just an instinct I carry. I get that from my mom!
Q: What does the future hold?
A: I’m really excited about my future, because I believe God has some unfinished promises that are about to unfold. After losing my husband in 2015 and almost giving up, I have learned that if I can make it through that, I’m sure my destiny is so much greater…the bigger the problems the bigger the blessings. I got this.
Why We Love Her
She arrived from St Louis and quickly made a name for herself in South Florida.
She won National Showgirl on her first try.
She went through one of the worst tragedies possible — survived, and is stronger!
Her strong faith in God!
source https://hotspotsmagazine.com/2017/06/27/queens-we-love-missy-meyakie-lepaige/
Hot Bodies: 5 Ways to Burn Fat Fast this Summer
Summer heat and humidity can really take a toll on you. Yet summer can be fun, too, with ample opportunities for vacation, summer parties and extra time at the pool. Wouldn’t it be great if you could shed those extra pounds as easily as a wet speedo? Instead of covering up and making excuses, here are some pointers that will help you melt fat and inches, now, this summer!
1) Curb your carbs. The body normally relies upon carbohydrates which are broken down as glucose and utilized as energy to fuel every activity from digestion to skate boarding. When you cut back on carbohydrates your body produces ketones that burn stored fat as energy. This process, which is logically called ketosis, is used by many athletes, body builders and models to cut-up and trim down. You can achieve ketosis in your own body by cutting out starches like rice, bread and potatoes from your meals.
2) Ramp up your workouts with High Intensity Interval Training (HIIT). If you get bored walking the dog or climbing on board a treadmill for endless hours, you may have “cardio burnout”. Unfortunately, you need cardio-vascular training if you want to lose those extra pounds. I recommend putting a little heat under your cardio by trying HIIT.
Here’s an example of a HIIT cardio routine:
-Warm-up with stretches, pushups, and running in place for 5 minutes.
-Do wind sprints, fast and furious for 30 seconds.
-Slow down and power walk, swinging dumbbells at your sides for five minutes.
-Rest for 30 seconds and repeat this process five or six times.
With HIIT you can be crazy and creative as you burn tons of calories!
3) Lifting weights builds muscle, boosts your metabolism and burns fat. Muscle is catabolic, meaning it burns calories even when you’re not doing anything. Basically, the more muscle you have the more calories you burn, even when you are sleeping. Recently it has been found that people who lift regularly exhibit high Excess Post-Exercise Oxygen Consumption (EPOC). Simply put, your metabolism remains elevated all day long and you burn fat and calories even after you’ve left the weight room.
4) Stay busy and active and those pounds will melt away. A sedentary life-style is sure to make you pack on pounds. Don’t let yourself become a bored, inactive couch potato. Make plans, run errands, arrange dates, set goals, take a walk on your lunch break or organize a weight loss contest among your friends. The busier you are, the more fun you’re having, the more things get done, and the more calories you’ll burn all the time.
5) Eat to lose fat. If you starve yourself, you may lose a considerable amount of weight, but much of it will be lean muscle as well as fat. That’s not good. Instead, pack these potent, fat burning foods into your nutritional plan: oatmeal, green tea, walnuts, pears, spicy chili peppers (also curry and cayenne pepper), grapefruit, eggs, skim milk, blueberries and salmon.
Tom Bonanti is a certified trainer, massage therapist (MA#40258) and fitness writer for Hotspots. He can be reached at trainertomb@aol.com with questions or inquiries concerning his services.
source https://hotspotsmagazine.com/2017/06/27/hot-bodies-5-ways-to-burn-fat-fast-this-summer/
Creep of the Week: Brazilian Writer & Blogger Julio Severo
‘U.S. taught Brazil to be gay’
Julio Severo, a Brazilian writer and blogger, is super mad that America taught Brazil to be gay.
In a June 12 piece on Barbwire, a website named for its unique ability to make a thinking person’s brain bleed, Severo writes, “The homosexual movement became active in Brazil by direct cultural effect from America, including her politics and Hollywood.”
In other words, Brazil would be totally straight if it wasn’t for those meddling American movies and politicians enticing them to the gay side.
So you can understand that Secretary of State Rex Tillerson, who apparently formally recognized June as Pride Month, has made Severo very unhappy. But he’s even madder at President Trump for not publicly speaking out against this heinous crime.
“Trump is a man who speaks,” Severo writes, “and does it strongly on strong issues.”
Ah, yes. A “man who speaks.” You’ll remember that Trump himself declared that he had “the best words.” I’m not sure what it means to speak “strongly on strong issues,” but we certainly know it doesn’t have anything to do with rational thought or honesty if this “strong” stuff is coming from Trump’s mouth.
“[Trump’s] silence while powerful members of his administration promote the homosexual agenda is a strong sign that he approves it and that in due time he will strongly defend the same issues they are defending,” Severo continues.
In other words, Trump’s silence is his special, secret way of telling LGBTQ people he loves them. Granted, in just about every way that matters, like by nominating anti-LGBTQ cabinet members and judges, he has given LGBTQ people the finger. But sure, he’s probably gonna marshal a Pride parade any day now.
“Trump’s silence, while his State Department actively praises the homosexual abnormality in the international community, is sheer connivance,” writes Severo.
Dude, “sheer connivance” pretty much sums up Trump’s entire presidency.
He continues, “Homosexuality is a cause of shame and scandals, not pride. Why then is Trump’s State Department so proud of a LGBT month?”
“As a Brazilian conservative evangelical,” Severo writes, “I ask U.S. evangelicals to press the Trump administration to abandon Obama’s homosexual imperialism in the State Department and honor his commitment to his evangelical constituents, who were instrumental for his victory.”
Indeed, U.S. evangelicals enthusiastically voted for Trump and continue in large part to support him, which goes to show how morally bankrupt they are. And believe me, U.S. evangelicals have their anti-LGBTQ fingerprints all over this administration and the entire Republican Party. One particularly stubborn fingerprint goes by the name of Mike Pence.
“The Trump administration should defend family against predatory homosexuality,” Severo continues, “which is a special threat to children.”
No, it isn’t. But you know what’s really a special threat to children? War. Which is why it should worry anyone who claims to care about kids that Trump seems hell bent on weakening the State Department by slashing its budget and leaving a ton of positions unfilled.
But where were we? Oh, that’s right, we were discussing how the real problem is that the State Department doesn’t hate gays enough. Got it. (Insert eye roll, vomiting, middle finger emojis.)
D’Anne Witkowski is a poet, writer and comedian living in Michigan with her wife and son. She has been writing about LGBT politics for over a decade. Follow her on Twitter @MamaDWitkowski.
source https://hotspotsmagazine.com/2017/06/27/creep-of-the-week-brazilian-writer-blogger-julio-severo/
Need Wood: Pour Some Sugar on Me!
Hey Woody!
Have you heard about a supplement that’s supposed to make your c-m taste sweet? Is this real or one of those red flags being waved in front of ground-pawing bulls like me looking for the next big thing in sex?
– Sweet Tooth
Dear Tooth:
I love your bullfighting analogy because that’s exactly what you have to do when you’re faced with the claims of most supplements—fight bull.
The latest thing making nostrils flare in horny anticipation is a supplement called “Semenex,” manufactured by MMOR Research. Semenex is a dietary supplement made up of fruits, vegetables, spices, vitamins and minerals. You mix the powder in a glass of water, and voilà, 12 to 24 hours later your semen tastes like a new Ben & Jerry’s flavor.
Hey, wait a second, what’s that smell? Check the soles of your shoes, everybody. I think we just stepped on another pile of dietary supplement claims.
There is no proof whatsoever that anything can change the taste of your semen. Yes, there are all kind of “experts” claiming you can make your c-m taste better if you do the Hokey Pokey and drink this unpasteurized pineapple juice with that hormonal strawberry. Only doctors with Caribbean medical degrees believe that.
Hey Woody!
If all these drugs are making HIV undetectable in blood tests then why can’t I bareback safely with an HIV–positive guy? I don’t get it. If it’s undetectable, then it’s not there, right? And if it’s not there, why should I use a rubber?
– Detect THIS
Dear THIS:
Undetectable doesn’t mean non-existent.
Let’s say you and Mr. He Wants Me But He Doesn’t Know It are leaning against the bar. He turns his back on you and you slip some GHB in his drink. The bartender, who doesn’t give a s–t what people do to each other as long as it doesn’t cut into his tips, immediately comes over, grabs the drink and conducts an on-the-spot test. But the test only measures the active ingredient in GHB to .005 mgs per liter, and you put in .004. The bartender leaves you alone. Does this mean your hatefulness was non-existent? Or undetectable?
Same thing with HIV. The hatefulness of this virus can only be measured to a certain threshold. If it dips below this threshold we know it’s still there, it’s just that our instruments aren’t sensitive enough to pick it up.
What AIDS experts will not say publicly is that having sex with an HIV-infected man with undetectable levels of HIV in his blood is safer than having sex with one who has detectable levels.
So yes, it’s safer. But is it safe? Hardly. For one, HIV strains left in the wake of an onslaught of powerful drug combinations are often drug-resistant. This means that some people with undetectable virus in their blood risk passing on HIV strains that can’t be treated with current drugs.
Don’t assume that just because someone’s on a cocktail therapy that they automatically have undetectable levels of HIV in their blood. Studies show that 45-50% have undetectable levels. It could rise to as high as 85% but only if patients take the drugs as prescribed. A good many don’t.
If you still want to bareback after what I just said, then stop reading this column, babe.
Read woody’s new mindful eating book, Eat It Later.
Mastering Self Control & The Slimming Power Of Postponement.
source https://hotspotsmagazine.com/2017/06/27/need-wood-pour-some-sugar-on-me/
Monday, 26 June 2017
Hot Talk: The Best Chatter on Social Media (June 24, 2017)
“My government will make further progress to tackle the gender pay gap and discrimination against people on the basis of their race, faith, gender, disability or sexual orientation.”
-Her Majesty QUEEN ELIZABETH II, 91, addressing the U.K. parliament and pledging to protect LGBT people from discrimination.
“We hope the members of Congress who have the power to affect healthcare reform will engage with us and other advocates in a way that the Trump administration apparently will not.”
-The six members of the PRESIDENTIAL ADVISORY COUNCIL ON HIV/AIDS in a statement on their mass resignation in which they said President Donald Trump, who took down the Office of National AIDS Policy website when he took office, “simply does not care” about HIV/AIDS or the 1.1 million Americans infected.
“What I can tell you at this point is there has been a gross mismanagement of money…”
-Miami Beach detective JUAN SANCHEZ, the department’s liaison to the LGBT community, referring to the investigation into the finances of the World OutGames Miami which the organizers cancelled hours before opening ceremonies due to lack of funds. The investigation has so far revealed the OutGames’ checkbook went unbalanced for at least the past year.
“Viewed in the light of evolution, homosexuality seems to be a real self-defeating, non-productive strategy. Gays have 80 percent fewer kids than heterosexuals. This is a trait that ought to go extinct in a few generations, yet down through recorded history in every culture and many animal species as well, homosexuality has been a small but distinct sub-group. If this were a genetic error, natural selection should have long ago culled this from the gene pool.”
-Dr. JAMES O’KEEFE, in a TED Talk on the latest research in which he concludes Nature prescribes homosexuality and it should be embraced.
“It takes a lot more strength to be honest with yourself than it does to lie.”
-RYAN O’CALLAGHAN, who played in the NFL for the New England Patriots and the Kansas City Chiefs, telling his difficult coming out story to Outsports.
source https://hotspotsmagazine.com/2017/06/26/hot-talk-the-best-chatter-on-social-media-june-24-2017/
Friday, 23 June 2017
Thursday, 22 June 2017
15th Annual St. Pete Pride & Parade
Florida’s largest Pride event returns with the St. Pete Pride and Parade on June 24 and 25.
The parade will feature 5,000 people dancing and sauntering along downtown St Pete’s Bayshore Drive in a burst of color and dazzling array of sequins, beads, leather and feathers to celebrate the power and beauty of diversity, with more than 200,000 people cheering them on.The purpose of St. Pete.
The purpose of St. Pete Pride, according to organizers, is to promote unity, visibility, self-esteem and a positive image of and among the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) community of Tampa Bay and throughout the State of Florida by way of cultural and educational programs and activities.
This is the 15th annual St Pete Pride and the event continues to grow and change. A few years back the parade was moved to the night prior to the festiva land this year the parade’s visibility improves as it moves downtown.
The Pride Parade will be held Saturday, June 24 with a party beginning at 2 p.m., followed by the parade at 6:30 p.m. The Pride Festival will be held Sunday, June 25, beginning at 9 a.m. and ending at 4 p.m., and is expected to draw more than 50,000 at the Grand Central District.
The St. Pete Pride Street Festival will again be the largest community event of the season as festival-goers come together to make history while enjoying a day of live performances and entertainment, community booths, art and fantastic food in paradise.
The Wells Fargo Stage Lineup is:
2:30 pm – Karmic Tattoo
3:20 pm – Rolando Xavier
4:05 pm – Christopher Thomas
4:35 pm – Derek Dean
5:00 pm – Panamory
6:00 pm – Jennifer Real
As with any large event, parking can be a challenge. Organizers recommend you carpool, but if you insist on driving, it is recommended you use one of the several parking garages in the downtown area.
Be Courteous
No outside beverages or alcohol are allowed at the parade or festival. Water and other beverages will be sold throughout the parade route viewing area. In the interest of general safety, please refrain from bringing in the following:
• Alcohol (open container laws and city ordinances
still apply)
• Inline Skates
• Laser pointers
• Radios
• Skateboards/Scooters
• Fireworks
• Weapons/Firearms
• Pets or animals (we love animals, but for their safety,
leave them at home)
For more information on St. Pete Pride and related events, go to stpetepride.com.
source https://hotspotsmagazine.com/2017/06/22/15th-annual-st-pete-pride-parade/
Queens We Love Alexis Mateo
From ‘”RuPaul’s Drag Race” to All American Goddess, Alexis Mateo is conquering the drag world
Q: What was the first drag show you saw and tell me about the experience?
A: My first drag show was in 2000. I got the honor to watch the cast of the Footlights Players at the Parliament House in Orlando. I witnessed drag before in Puerto Rico, but this show was magical. I fell in love with drag that evening.
Q: When did you decide you wanted to do drag and when did you realize it would be a profession?
A: I wanted to do drag since I went back home from that first drag show at PH, so I started to do talent shows and pageants to learn the basics but it was not until 2006 when I started working at Suncoast Resort in St Pete that I realized that Drag was going to be my career.
Q: Who is your drag mother and who is your favorite queen other than your drag mother and why?
A: I got 3 drag mothers (fairy godmothers). I am lucky lol! The first one was Calvin Of Orlando who took me by the hand and showed me the basics of drag. Kori Stevens showed me the meaning of Drag and Alicia Markstone helped me become a Diva. I am so thankful for these 3 people every day. I don’t have a favorite queen because I have a favorite King. Jeffrey Kelly, my husband. I admire this entertainer for the quality, pride and entertainment value that he brings to the stage. For me he is an icon on the male side of drag and I’m happy to share my life with him.
Q: What’s your favorite number to perform and why?
A: I have many favorites I like to perform, but my ultimate favorite is “Rather Be.” Every time I do this number, I remember how lucky I am to be able to make a living doing what I love, and it puts a smile on my face.
Q: What’s the best thing that has happened to you in drag?
A: For me, that’s a super easy question, it is being on “RuPaul’s Drag Race”!
Q: What differentiates you from other Queens (Makes you Unique)?
A: Alexis Mateo is unique. A mix of old school and new school but what make me unique is the love I have for this art. For me it’s an honor and a blessing to be a queen.
Q: What does the future hold?
A: I don’t know what the future holds for me, but looking back into my past experiences, I know my future is going to be full of amazing opportunities, great people, and lots of smiles. Like I always say BAM!!!!
Why We Love her
She appreciates the history of Drag
Ru Paul’s Drag Race and then All Stars made all of us fall in love with Alexis
She really loves Central Florida, competes in local pageants there and gives back to her community
Alexis Jeffrey created the Mateo Empire!
source https://hotspotsmagazine.com/2017/06/22/queens-we-love-alexis-mateo/
Wednesday, 21 June 2017
Stigma Tattoos: A Q&A with Kelly Wells
After attending the CMT Music Awards in Tennessee last year, Kelly Wells could not understand why her cell phone would not stop buzzing with calls and text messages at such a late hour. She thought people were calling to say they saw her on television. Kelly would never imagine that her friends from all over the world were frantically calling/texting her to insure she was OK and not involved with the deadliest mass shooting in US history. In the aftermath, Kelly and her team at Stigma Tattoo Bar came up with a project that would benefit the victims and the deceased victim’s families of the Pulse Nightclub tragedy. Kelly sat down with HotSpots Central to discuss her idea:
Can you name the exact moment that triggered you to start this fundraising idea that later turned into one of the biggest Pulse fundraising projects in Orlando?
Being away for my birthday, after waking up to multiple messages checking on us…. we watched the horror unfold on the hotel room TV or checking FB for friends updates…. We felt so extremely helpless! We were trying to think of what we could do, we wanted to make a difference. We toyed with the idea of a Pole dance workshop, maybe tattoos. Then a few people reached out to me personally & asked if we would we be offering Pulse tattoos like some other shops had started doing. We NEVER normally offer flash designs, since we are a custom only shop. However it seemed like it was the most realistic way to make a difference. It was important to offer designs that would create a sort of unified symbol of support. We all sat & created some designs, then narrowed it to small variety of designs that would be easily recognized forever! Secondly this would streamline the tattoo process & enable us to tattoo far more people, in turn raising more money!
Can you describe what happened when you held your first event on June 18th – The Saturday after the Pulse tragedy?
We posted about the event on the Wednesday, prepped everything we could Thursday & Friday. We saw the number planned to attend growing by the hour so we knew we needed to prepare for more than the 20-30 people we originally expected.
We woke up Saturday to texts from people telling us the line of people started to build at 7am & was wrapped around the block already. As each of us arrived that morning the crowd would see a Stigma shirt & roar with happiness. It was pretty amazing & overwhelming! We were ready to open at 12 & instantly our volunteers started to walk the line & offer water & entertainment! We got into a flow & were working our way along the line. It became increasingly obvious there were far more people in line that we could cope with. But the atmosphere was that of love & support so people were happy to sit & talk. They danced, drank & sang. We would let more people in to cool off in the AC as soon as there was space.
We started to build a list of names along the line. Taking contact info to enable us to reach out to people who were unable to wait, or who were just too far back to get in. As the day progressed we realized some were there from early morning & it was now 11pm! But instead of anger, there was love. Instead of people walking out mad, they were hugging us saying Thank you. We had NO CLUE how long people would have to wait, we certainly tried as hard as we could to keep the process streamlined. News crews were in from all over the world to talk to the people of Orlando while they were getting tattooed. It was pretty amazing to see how much could be achieved in such a short time.
As of today, how many Pulse tattoos has Stigma Tattoo Bar inked on various people?
We estimate we have tattooed Pulse designs on roughly 1000 people so far. It took about 6-7 weeks after the main fundraising day to get through the 8-9 pages of names we took that day. We promised to prioritize those that came & waited that day. We did our very best to make that happen, our artists worked with people that wanted larger custom pieces too…..working many extra hours each day to make sure we could keep that promise was important to all of us. Even some of volunteers came back in for the following weeks to help too!
To your knowledge, how much money has Stigma Tattoo Bar raised and donated to the One Pulse Foundation?
We have donated approximately $17,000 so far.
Will there be any future fundraisers for the Pulse foundation held by your business?
We actually offered the designs again for the weekend of the 1yr Anniversary. Reducing our shop min from $75 to the $50, enabling clients to donate the $25 saving to the Pulse charity of their choosing if they chose to.
When you think back about all the Pulse tattoos that came from Stigma Tattoo Bar, can you pick your favorite one and tell us why it is your favorite?
How could I have a favorite? I love them all ️ That is the amazing thing, it’s not so much about the design chosen, it’s what it means to each individual.
source https://hotspotsmagazine.com/2017/06/21/stigma-tattoos-a-qa-with-kelly-wells/
Logo Study Names Most Out & Proud Brands
Annual ‘Trailblazing Companies’ Rankings Shows Diverse Brands Increasing LGBT-Inclusive Marketing, PR, Advertising
Despite our changing times, America’s leading companies and brands are proudly remaining out and proud, with more companies including LGBTQ people and families in mainstream advertising and marketing than ever before.
Logo, the leading entertainment brand for the LGBTQ community, today released the second annual ‘Trailblazing Companies’ list, a ranking of companies and brands that have demonstrated a public commitment to LGBTQ people & issues through advertising, communications, and other public initiatives. The campaigns and marketing endeavors on the list showcase a range of personalities, stories and experiences within the LGBTQ community.
Hilton, Anheuser-Busch, Marriott, Google, and Apple were found to have the highest scores in categories that counted LGBTQ initiatives in the following objective, public-facing categories: LGBTQ-Inclusive Advertising, Digital Video & Social Media, Policy Support, Spokespersons & C-Suite Executives, Donations & Sponsorships, and Website Engagement. This year, examples of corporate support for the survivors, families and victims of the Orlando Pulse nightclub tragedy were also calculated in scoring.
According to Bob Witeck, President of Witeck Communications, LGBTQ consumers represent an estimated buying power of $971 billion. Previous Logo research also has found that 71 percent of LGBTQ consumers are more likely to support a brand after seeing an equality-themed ad, while 71 percent were more likely to purchase from a company that actively supports and contributes to LGBTQ charities/causes.
Logo’s ‘Trailblazing Companies’ list was created through extensive research conducted in partnership with Witeck Communications, a strategic communications firm with special expertise in LGBTQ communications. Logo started with a pool of close to 200 consumer-facing companies that earned 100% scores for their internal LGBTQ policies on the Human Rights Campaign’s Corporate Equality Index. Each company was then evaluated based on the seven objective categories that demonstrate each company’s support of the LGBT community in the public sphere. Companies were awarded points based on their performance in each of these areas.
“Each of these companies is delivering a message of inclusion, diversity and equality that is needed now more than ever,” said Pamela Post, SVP of Programming for Logo. “While we are incredibly proud to recognize these 25 trailblazing companies who are raising the bar higher than just their bottom line, the ultimate goal is to one day reach a time when a list like this is no longer necessary.”
Bob Witeck also adds that, “the resonance of LGBTQ attitudes in the marketplace has made a sea of change in how brands express their values, connect innovatively with diverse households, and grow market share. This new study is an encouraging roadmap of trends and opportunities for all brands aiming to step up their competition.”
Logo’s Top 25 Trailblazing Companies (in ranking order):
1. Hilton
2. Anheuser Busch
3. Marriott International
4. Google
5. Apple
6. Unilever
7. Target
8. American Express Co.
9. Macy’s
10. Campbell
11. PepsiCo
11. AT&T Inc.
11. Wells Fargo
14. Nike
14. Nissan North America
16. PNC Financial
16. Bank of America Corp.
18. Diageo North America
18. E&J Gallo Winery
20. American Airlines
20. Hallmark
22. Comcast
23. Intel Corp.
23. Toyota Motor
25. Alaska Air Group
For more information on the rankings and each company’s score visit:
http://files.logotv.com/rules/logo-25-trailblazing-companies-2016.pdf
source https://hotspotsmagazine.com/2017/06/21/logo-study-names-most-out-proud-brands/
Actor Sam Claflin Talks Intolerence, ‘Hunger Games’ Gay Fan Fiction
After a breakout part in the “Hunger Games” saga, as dreamy tribute Finnick Odair, and now a starring role opposite Rachel Weisz in “My Cousin Rachel,” the odds certainly have been in Sam Claflin’s favor.
Considering his winning streak, we’re holding out hope that a “Fifty Shades of Grey”-style rendezvous between him and the Hemsworth brothers – his idea, mind you – could be the British actor’s next major franchise. Till that blessed day comes, check out what the affable “Me Before You” looker has to say about finding the right gay role, how people are responding to his recent Hollywood body-shaming criticism and French gay porn.
I love seeing a woman in power, but, man, you really get jerked around in “My Cousin Rachel.”
(Laughs) Haven’t we all been there? Haven’t we all been in love and kind of swept off, though usually warned by friends? But, of course, Philip is a bit of a loner and left to his own devices, really. Love is blind, and it makes you do crazy things. (Laughs)
Growing up, what was your introduction to the gay community?
I got involved in musical theater at a young age and so that was an immediate part of my life. I mean, the second you kind of step onto the stage and embrace the arts, it becomes a part of you. And the second you open yourself up to becoming an actor and performing and exploring this industry in whatever capacity – any form of art, really – there’s an openness, and it’s a really wonderful and incredibly rewarding industry to work in.
Plus, you’re British.
(Laughs) It does really upset me that people aren’t open-minded. People are still hung up on such a traditional old-world life, and people should be allowed to love who they want and be who they want and speak what they want and believe in what they want. I think it’s a shame that people are so narrow-minded that they believe their way is the only way. It’s sickening, in all honesty.
I don’t believe you have played a gay role, and I’m gonna let you give me one good reason why that hasn’t happened.
(Laughs) I actually got offered the role of a gay man in a TV series! But I didn’t think it was well enough written. I have auditioned for gay parts and not got them and desperately wanted them. It’s nothing I’m shying away from. It’s something I fully embrace. And, actually, I have done it in plays during drama school, but it just hasn’t worked yet for me. But I’d jump at the chance. I’d be happy to do anything that was sort of good enough for me to kind of get my feet stuck in, like a meaty role, or an opportunity to work with a great director no matter what the story and no matter what the character.
How aware are you of your LGBT fan base?
In all honesty, I kind of don’t know (laughs). What I mean is, any fans, really, I’m just – it’s always a surprise that someone from whatever country or walk of life (is a fan), and it just sort of amazes me that people travel so far and spend so much time waiting. It’s very humbling. It’s something that you can never really get used to. I think you’d be not a nice person if you got used to it. It’s a consistent shock and one that I try to embrace as best I can. I’m always so grateful that people are interested and do go out of their way to watch my movies and follow my social media. I feel very grateful and lucky and thankful.
Recently, you acknowledged being body-shamed on movie sets, and I’m glad you spoke out against the issue as it relates to male actors in Hollywood. There are many men in the LGBT community who deal with body-related issues.
You know, I’m like any human being on this planet; I have my insecurities. And it fascinates me that bringing it up in an interview resonated with so many people, only because people seem surprised by the fact that happened. I’m like, are you kidding me? It’s been happening for decades and decades and decades. It’s just not talked about as much.
It’s amazing that it has resonated and hit home for so many people. That is, unfortunately, the harsh reality of the world that we live in. We sort of live our lives through Instagram and Twitter and these filters, and we give people an insight into our lives, but we’re so, so picky about what it is that we share. It’s so kind of manipulative and it’s warped our reality. In actuality, how many people are Hollywood-ready 24/7? I think for me as a father and as a friend and as a son and as a husband, I wanna be around my loved ones – I don’t wanna be spending every day under the sun working out.
Actress Niecy Nash recently told The Cut, “Hollywood is a business that will often require you to be something else. But at some point you have to say, I’m going to be 100 percent who I am and be OK with that.” Does that resonate with you? When was the point in your career you decided to be your authentic self?
Don’t get me wrong: I wholly agree with what she said. But at the same time, also, one of the reasons I got into acting was because of my insecurities, I suppose. I enjoy hiding behind different characters. My social media feed doesn’t really reflect exactly what I’m doing. I am active on social media, but it’s not quite my life. That, to me, is private. And when I work I love exploring and having those other characters be another side of me and sharing them with the world. In truth, I partly enjoy physically transforming myself for roles. Someone whose career I admire is Christian Bale; he mentally and emotionally goes to a different place every time, and he physically transforms himself and that’s always quite admirable.
At the same time, to stand out from the crowd, and in order to put your stamp on your work, to have that confidence in yourself somewhat, you have to believe in yourself that you can do it. I still feel like I’m finding my own feet, and every day I’m learning something new. There will definitely come a time when I’m 100 percent confident in myself, I hope. But I’m not quite there yet. As an actor, you kind of constantly panic about what people think, and we strive for perfection as actors, but the thing about being an actor is you’ll never be perfect.
Till then, we’ll always have you giving Josh Hutcherson CPR in “The Hunger Games: Catching Fire.” In fact, you had a real bromance there for a while, and you even said during an interview, “My mouth touching his was a beautiful moment.” When can we expect you to rekindle that fire?
You know, Josh is honestly one of my favorite people in the world. In all honesty, every time I go to Los Angeles – and I’ve only been there once since we finished “Hunger Games,” if you can believe it – I always hope that I can actually hang with him, and I’m sure if he’s in London he knows he could give me a call. But yeah, hopefully something can be rekindled – that’s the hope. He’s one of my favorites.
“Hunger Games” fans have some of the wildest imaginations – and some pretty fantastic gay ideas for you, Josh and Liam Hemsworth. What are your thoughts on the gay fan fiction that’s been written about you three?
Fan fiction is one of those things I wish I knew more about. Someone was telling me that “Fifty Shades of Grey” was based on “Twilight” fan fiction. I didn’t realize there was an underworld with these kind of amazingly imaginative ideas. I had no idea! But I love Liam as much as I love – in fact, I love Chris Hemsworth. I love the entire Hemsworth family. I say we get all of us involved and we do a “Fifty Shades of Grey.” We can make it reality.
In “Me Before You,” there’s a recurrent joke regarding French gay porn. Please tell me that was based on an anecdote from your own life.
(Laughs) I can’t say I’ve watched any French porn, actually. No, French porn is not something that I’ve seen before. However, now I’m intrigued!
As editor of Q Syndicate, the international LGBT wire service, Chris Azzopardi has interviewed a multitude of superstars, including Meryl Streep, Mariah Carey and Beyoncé. Reach him via his website at www.chris-azzopardi.com and on Twitter (@chrisazzopardi).
source https://hotspotsmagazine.com/2017/06/21/actor-sam-claflin-talks-intolerence-hunger-games-gay-fan-fiction/
The Hot List: Top 10 Happenings in South Florida (June 22 – 25)
CONCERT – AA Arena – Two of music’s most captivating live performers will share the stage this summer when multi-platinum selling and multiple Grammy Award-winning global superstars Enrique Iglesias and Pitbull reunite for a co-headlining tour with CNCO as support on Friday, June 23rd at 7:30 pm at the American Airlines Arena.
DIANA ROSS – The Diva – performs twice in South Florida: On Saturday, June 24 at 8pm at the Kravis Center, and on Sunday, June 25 at 7:30 pm at Arsht Center. Diana Ross’ famed and remarkable career includes hit singles such as “Endless Love,” “I’m Coming Out,” and “Ain’t No Mountain High Enough.” She is one of the most iconic female singers of all time and was named “Female Entertainer of the Century” by Billboard magazine.
MOVIES – “Transformer – The Last Knight” stars Mark Wahlberg, Laura Haddock, Gemma Chan, and Isabela Moner and is about Humans and Transformers at war, and Optimus Prime is gone. The key to saving the future lies buried in the secrets of the past, in the hidden history of Transformers on Earth. The movie is 143 minutes and hits theaters on Friday, June 23
THEATER – Outer Space – The Off-Broadway hit comedy “Men Are From Mars – Women Are From Venus LIVE!”, is a one-man fusion of theatre and stand-up, and is a light-hearted theatrical comedy based on the New York Times #1 best-selling book of the last decade by John Gray. Moving swiftly through a series of vignettes, the show covers everything from dating and marriage to the bedroom. Playing at the Kravis Center from June 23 – 25; Tickets are $55
CHORUS – Gay Men’s Chorus of South Florida – Every coming out story has a song, and the “Generation OUT!” program weaves them together in a musical collection that spans decades. Expect to hear iconic tunes by Judy Garland, Madonna and Lady Gaga on Saturday, June 24 at 8pm at the Parker Playhouse.
BANDS – Ladies of Soul plays at the Calder Casino & Race Course on Saturday, June 24 at 9pm. The seven-piece band features three dynamic female vocalists performing Motown, disco, dance, R&B and contemporary hits. Admission is free.
MUSEUM – Turns 20 – The Coral Springs Museum of Art 20th Anniversary Exhibition Reception takes place on Thursday, June 22 starting at 6:30 pm This is a permanent collection featuring pieces by approximately 50 artists, and the 125 works features pieces by Keith Haring, Hunt Slonem, Romero Britto, Andres Desjardin and Pablo Cano. Light refreshments will be served. For more information email: MuseumInfo@coralsprings.org.
COMEDIENNE – Sheba Mason – is comedy royalty as she is the child of playwright Ginger Reiter and comedian Jackie Mason, Sheba Mason has been performing in her mother’s plays since the age of 2. Honing her own skills onstage for years, Mason’s become a fixture of the Manhattan comedy scene, spouting witticisms about everything from politics to grandmothers. Catch her at the Boca Black Box on Thursday, June 22 at 9 pm.
LATINO – Lifestyle Planning – The 2nd Latin American Health, Life and Pensions Summit takes place from June 26-29 at the Intercontinental At Doral Miami. Hear industry leaders discuss the most suitable tools and best practices to meet the challenges ahead. Learn how insurance companies will help develop the financial education of the population, and will take these essential products to their customers on a large scale basis. Understand how your company can benefit as the market begins to mature. For more info email: info@hansonwade.com
MOVIES – “The Big Sick” is a romantic comedy that stars Kumail Nanjiani, Zoe Kazan, Holly Hunter, and Ray Romano And tackles the subject of A couple dealing with their cultural differences as their relationship grows. It’s 119 minutes and hits theaters on Friday, June 23.
source https://hotspotsmagazine.com/2017/06/21/the-hot-list-top-10-happenings-in-south-florida-june-22-25/
Ru’s Final 4 Queens: The Claws are Out!
As we are getting ready for the finale and find out who RuPaul’s Crowns the winner of season 9 and America’s next Drag Superstar, I decided to reach out to the four finalists and ask them why they thought they should be America’s next Drag Superstar!
Peppermint:
“Drag needs to go in a new direction. The Trans movement has never been more relevant than it is now and I want to be a part of a historic moment. I think winning the title of ‘America’s Next drag Superstar’ as a Trans Queen would be just that.”
Sasha:
“America’s Next Drag superstar needs to be someone who will evolve along with the art of drag, who’s open to new ideas and wants to evolve and change quickly. That’s been my focus from the beginning. Even if I don’t win the crown, I guarantee that I’ll be the one turning out the most surprising new types of drag performance and drag looks! But I’m also committed to curating and representing drag for others. I publish an art magazine about drag (“Velour: The Drag Magazine”) and produce a stage-show called “Nightgowns,” which features some of the best drag I know (especially non-Drag Race drag), with a focus on trans performers, POC drag artists, drag kings and even AFAB queens! No matter the outcome of “Drag Race,” I plan to leave my mark on the history of drag!
Shea’s:
“In this competition, I have really had the ability to handle whatever the judges throw at me. Being talented is one thing, but applying those talents shows the true making of a superstar and I believe I did just that.”
Trinity:
“Because I deserve to win! I have C.U.N.T. I feel that I was the most versatile from the girls. I am the hardest worker and I would do the best at representing the brand of Americas Next Drag Superstar.”
source https://hotspotsmagazine.com/2017/06/21/rus-final-4-queens-the-claws-are-out/
Compass’ 16th Annual Stonewall Ball Celebrates Pride
On Saturday June 24, 2017, Compass will host the annual Stonewall Ball at the Harriet Himmel Theater in CityPlace. The “black and white” party commemorates the anniversary of the Stonewall uprising of June 1969, an event widely regarded as the birth of the modern gay rights movement. This year, Compass will incorporate a “glimmer of green” to add a pop of color to the annual black and white party.
Lake Worth City Commissioner, Andy Amoroso, is this year’s recipient of the Compass Leadership Award. Established in 2006, the Compass Leadership Award recognizes an elected or appointed official who has demonstrated a strong commitment to inclusive social justice.
Theo Smith will be awarded the Michael Brown Memorial Faces of the Community Award for his tireless volunteerism and community organizing within the LGBT community.
“We’ll have entertainment and ambiance never before experienced at Stonewall Ball,” hints Julia Murphy. “This ball commemorates the event that launched the modern LGBTQ rights movement and we seek to honor its importance and continuation.”
Compass’ Stonewall Ball June 24th will start with a VIP reception at 7:30 pm. General admission begins at 9pm. Tickets for the VIP reception are $75; general admission is $35 if purchased in advance or $40 at the door. To purchase tickets or for more information go to compassglcc.com or call Compass at 561-533-9699.
source https://hotspotsmagazine.com/2017/06/21/compass-16th-annual-stonewall-ball-celebrates-pride/
Dynamic Duo: Rod Stewart & Cyndi Lauper Join Forces
Two of music’s most acclaimed artists and powerhouse live performers will tour together this summer when Rod Stewart is joined by special guest Cyndi Lauper for an 18-city. Produced by Live Nation, the tour begins Thursday, July 6 in Hollywood, FL, Hard Rock Casino and Saturday, July 8 in Tampa, FL at Amalie Arena. For more information on the tour, please visit LiveNation.com. Tickets for Hollywood, FL (July 7); Tampa, FL (July 8); are available at ticketmaster.com
Sir Rod Stewart is one of the bestselling artists in the history of recorded music with 200 million records sold worldwide. With his signature voice, narrative songwriting, trendsetting style and passionate live performances he’s transcended all genres of popular music, from rock, folk, soul, R&B, new wave, and even the Great American Song Book; making him one of the few stars to enjoy chart-topping albums throughout every decade of his five decade-long career. As a singer and songwriter his hits include “Gasoline Alley,” “Every Picture Tells a Story,” “Mandolin Wind,” “You Wear It Well,” “The Killing of Georgie,” “Tonight’s the Night,” “You’re In My Heart (The Final Acclaim),” “Da Ya Think I’m Sexy?,” “Young Turks,” “Forever Young,” “Hot Legs,” “Infatuation” and the indelible, “Maggie May.” Stewart’s performed for millions of fans on all seven continents, even holding the record for the largest-ever free concert, for an estimated 4.2 million in Rio de Janeiro on New Year’s Eve in 1996. In addition to touring, his Las Vegas residency, “Rod Stewart: The Hits,” at The Colosseum at Caesars Palace has remained one of the hottest tickets and best reviewed shows since its launch in 2011. He’s earned countless of the industry’s highest awards, among them; two inductions into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, the ASCAP Founders Award for songwriting, New York Times bestselling author, Grammy™ Living Legend, and in 2016 he officially became “Sir Rod Stewart” after being knighted by Britain’s Prince William at Buckingham Palace for his services to music and charity. RodStewart.com
Cyndi Lauper is a Grammy, Emmy, and Tony Award-winning artist who, after 30 sterling years and global record sales in excess of 50 million albums, has proven that she has the heart and soul to keep her legion of fans compelled by her every creative move. With her first album, She’s So Unusual, Lauper won a Grammy Award for Best New Artist and became the first female in history to have four top-five singles from a debut album. With a string of unique follow-ups, Lauper has continued to push her own boundaries, exploring electronic dance music, American standards, the Memphis blues and, with her latest studio album Detour, country classics from the ‘40s, ‘50s, and ‘60s which features collaborations with some of country music’s most-celebrated artists including Vince Gill, Emmylou Harris, Willie Nelson, and Alison Kraus. In recognition of her ongoing contribution to music, Lauper was inducted into the prestigious Songwriters Hall of Fame in 2015. CyndiLauper.com
source https://hotspotsmagazine.com/2017/06/21/dynamic-duo-rod-stewart-cyndi-lauper-join-forces/
What’s Hot South Florida: Jun 22 – June 27
Thursday, June 22
Out in the Tropics LGBTQ Performing Arts Series and FUNDarte in association with Centro Cultural Español present La Shica in concert at The Gleason Room at the Fillmore (1700 Washington Ave, Miami Beach). La Shica is a Madrid-based artist who mixes the raw passion of flamenco with the girt of urban Hip-hop and rap, adding touches of rock and funk, and rounding out the sound with generous jazz and blues influences. Purchase tickets at the Fillmore Box office in person or call them at 305-673-7300 or through Ticketmaster.com.
Friday, June 23
Miami’s own golden boy Pit Bull reunites with Enrique Iglesias for what is sure to be an amazing concert at 7:30 pm at the AmericanAirlines Arena.
Out in the Tropics LGBTQ Performing Arts Series and FUNDarte present Joey Arias in concert at the Gleason Room at The Fillmore (1700 Washington Avenue, Miami Beach). Joey Arias is an internationally acclaimed vocalist, songwriter, actor, performance artist, and fashion icon. Arias lived and worked with legendary musician Klaus Nomi then became a performance artist, cabaret singer, and drag artist, and became popular among early Gay Pride activists in Miami. Arias played the emcee in Cirque du Soleil’s Zumanity, for which he co-wrote 3 songs. He has performed at such venues as Carnegie Hall, The Freedom Theatre in London and a world tour through cabaret clubs of Paris, Tokyo, Moscow, Germany, Finland, Estonia, Canada, and England. His film credits include Mondo New York, Big Top Pee Wee, Elvira, Mistress of the Dark, Wigstock – The Movie, Flawless, To Wong Foo, Thanks for Everything! Julie Newmar, and Z Chromosome. TV credits include an infamous Saturday Night Live episode with David Bowie and Klaus Nomi, Ann Magnuson’s Vandemonium (Cinemax), Elvira’s MTV Halloween Special, HBOs Dragtime and Real Sex, and Gayer than Gay on VH1, along with appearances on various talk shows. His own recordings include Arias on Holiday, Strange Fruit, Jazzo Lozo, God Shave the Queen, StarLust, Arias with a Twist, and Bar D’o. Purchase tickets at the Fillmore Box office in person or call them at 305-673-7300 or through Ticketmaster.com.
Saturday, June 24
Compass of Palm Beach presents the 16th annual Stonewall Black & White Ball: Emerald Night (Translation: Black and white with a glimmer of emerald) at the Harriet Himmel Theater in City Place, West Palm Beach. At 7:30p.m. is the VIP and Leadership award reception ($75) and at 9p.m. is general admission ($35 in advance and $40 at the door). Tickets can be purchased at CompassGLCC.com or in person at these locations: Compass Community Center, Roosters, Penny’s at the Duke, Mad Hatter, The Box Gallery, Fort Dix or Studio 205.
Noche Latina Saturdays inside the Ivy Dance Room and Patio at the Manor Complex presents “Puerto Rican Pride Celebration,” with their annual “Hot Boricua Contest” featuring $300 in cash and prizes (limited to the first 5 contestants that sign up). The night will star Sasha Lords and Selena Jimenez, along with resident DJ Larry Larr spinning your Latin favorites and Hot Latin Go-Go papis. Saturdays at the Manor are from 11pm to 4am and feature NO COVER before midnight and only $7 with Manor card after midnight and $10 without.
The Frost Museum, in the Hsiao Family Special Exhibition Gallery presents Space: An Out-of-Gravity Experience invites guests on a journey of space exploration with hands-on activities and multimedia components. Guests will get a glimpse of the challenges and triumphs of space exploration. Interactive exhibits invite engagement in the extraordinary conditions of space exploration and the science that makes it successful. What lies ahead for human space flight? And what does it mean for life on Earth? Discover what is possible and what awaits in orbit and beyond. Space: An Out-of-Gravity Experience is on display at Frost Science from today through Sunday, September 10. Admission is complimentary with museum tickets. More information is available at frostscience.org/space.
Gay Men’s Chorus of South Florida presents “Generation OUT!,” which is coming out stories weaved together in a musical collection that spans decades. Expect to hear iconic tunes by Judy Garland, Madonna and Lady Gaga on Saturday, at 8pm at the Parker Playhouse. To purchase tickets go to: BrowardCenter.org
Sunday, June 25
Scandals Saloon presents their monthly Lady Fancy’s Gospel Jubilee at 6 p.m. which is a joyful celebration of Southern Gospel Music.
The SUPREME diva, Diana Ross performs tonight at 7:30pm at the Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts. Diana Ross’ famed and remarkable career includes hit singles such as “Endless Love,” “I’m Coming Out,” and “Ain’t No Mountain High Enough.” She is one of the most iconic female singers of all time and was named “Female Entertainer of the Century” by Billboard magazine. For more information or tickets, go to ArshtCenter.org.
Tuesday, June 27
Broward Equality Connection takes place today from 6p.m. to 8p.m. at Mojo’s Restaurant
(4140 N Federal Hwy, Fort Lauderdale). There is no charge for this event, so you can bring a guest, or three! Equality Connections are a great way to introduce new people to the work of Equality Florida. If you stay for dinner, Anthony & Domenick of Mojo’s will “give back” to Equality Florida 20% of regular priced menu items. For reservations (recommended) call 954-568-4443.
Miami Live (912 71st Street, Miami Beach) presents Open Mic Night starting at 9pm, hosted by DJ Epps, with Shemuwel performing live!
This is HOT
Nonesuch Records releases The Natalie Merchant Collection,—a deluxe ten-CD box set compiled by Merchant—on June 23, 2017. The Natalie Merchant Collection comprises ten discs, including all eight of her solo studio albums from the past three decades. A ninth disc, Butterfly, is a new studio set featuring four new songs and six reinterpreted selections from her catalogue, all arranged for string quartet. The final disc is Rarities, a collection of fifteen rare and previously unreleased tracks recorded between 1998 and 2017, which offers a unique view of Merchant’s creative experimentation through home studio demos, album outtakes, live tracks, and collaborations with diverse artists like Billy Bragg, David Byrne, The Chieftains, Cowboy Junkies, and Amy Helm. The package includes a 100-page lyric book and pictorial history of the singer-songwriter’s solo career—an archival treasure box for collectors. Pre-orders are available now at nonesuch.com with an instant download of the new recording of “Frozen Charlotte” from the Butterfly disc as well as an exclusive, limited-edition print autographed by Merchant.
To coincide with the release of the box set, Merchant will tour the US this summer with Natalie Merchant: 3 Decades of Song, performing songs from across her entire career. A portion of the tour’s proceeds will be donated to the environmental organization Food & Water Watch, which champions healthy food and clean water. Tickets are on sale now, and more information may be found at nataliemerchant.com.
source https://hotspotsmagazine.com/2017/06/21/whats-hot-south-florida-jun-22-june-27/
Tuesday, 20 June 2017
Need Wood: Afternoon Delight
Afternoon Delight
Hey Woody, A lesbian friend I adore wants me to be a sperm donor, but she, ahem, wants it donated in the old fashioned way. Now, I love her and everything, but I’m still going to have a blindfold over my eyes and a clothespin over my nose. Needless to say, I want it to work the first time—is there a time of the day when my sperm count will be higher, and thus increase the chance for it to “take”?
—I’m what you call a REAL friend
Dear Real:
Sperm work the second shift. While everyone is winding down and driving home, they’re just getting ready to go to work. Researchers in Italy compared semen samples collected from men at 7 in the morning with those collected from the same group of men in the afternoon (don’t worry, they didn’t give same-day samples—my God, they’d be exhausted. They waited for the pumps to refresh after a few days). The semen collected in the afternoon contained 40 million more spermatozoa than the samples collected in the morning. That’s almost a 30% increase. So, wait till late afternoon/early evening, clamp the clothespin on and knock yourself out.
Hey, Woody!
My new boyfriend wants me to talk trash to him in bed. I’m pretty good in the sack but I’m too bashful to talk dirty. If I ever made it to the World Heavyweight Sex Championship I’d be promoted as the “Thrilla-in-Vanilla.” How can I loosen my tongue and let the trash flow freely?
—Tongue in chic
Dear Tongue:
Tabasco Talk is a real art. Too little and it’s tasteless, too much and it burns. Like adding the sauce to chili, adding wordplay to foreplay is a great way to spice things up. First rule: Forget the flowery prose. Your boyfriend doesn’t want to hear he’s got a velvety vulva; he wants to hear he’s got a great ass. If you’re really shy, start by simply narrating what you’re doing. If you go to a baseball game you’re going to talk about who’s pitching, who’s hitting, who’s doing what to whom. Do that in bed. Describe what you’re doing and feeling, and more importantly, what you’re going to do: “I’m gonna take my X, put it in your Y and make you Z stars.” Remember the royal rule of the restless: Treat a queen like a whore and a whore like a queen. Meaning, your boyfriend doesn’t want Aunt Bea in bed, he wants Ahnuld to terminate him: “Hasta la Pinga, baby.” A great way to jump-start the process is to practice on the phone when you’re out of town. Some people find it easier because there’s no eye contact and there’s only one way to communicate on the phone—verbally. Lastly, don’t forget the Three G’s in bed: Groan, Grunt and Grab. Not many syllables to them, but animal sounds can speak a thousand dirty words.
source https://hotspotsmagazine.com/2017/06/20/need-wood-afternoon-delight/
Hot Bodies: The 5 Best Lower Body Exercises
You’ve seen him in the clubs, at the pool, and in your gym – the jacked muscle dude with cannonball shoulders, biceps like soft balls and giant slab- like pecs. Then your enthusiasm for this vision of muscledom wanes as you look down at his pencil-like, underdeveloped legs. No one I know looks forward to “leg day”, but if you want a strong, fit body and a classic, symmetrical physique, you must work out lower body. My advice is to keep the routine simple, safe, and consistent. Focus upon these five exercises that will hit every major muscle group. Perform this regime once, or perhaps twice per week for optimum gains. Go for 3-4 sets of eight to twelve reps of each exercise.
Squats are simply the best weight training exercise you can do. They work every muscle group of the body, especially quads, hamstrings and glutes. If you don’t have access to a barbell and squat rack, you can squat with dumbbells, kettlebells, or even your own body weight.
Deadlifts are as manly as it gets in the weight room. Basically, you’re trying to lift as much weight as you can, just by picking up a barbell or dumbbells and putting them back down. Check your form- square off your stance, bend your knees slightly, keep your head up, lift the weight off the floor, squeeze your butt and hamstrings, and put the weight back down on the floor.
Dumbbell lunges will target butt better than any other weight training exercise. Grab some dumbbells or kettlebells, lunge forward on one leg as you drop to one knee with the other leg, rise, then alternate by lunging forward with the other leg, etc. You can do these as stationary lunges or you can do walking lunges around the gym, in the parking lot, or on your own driveway. For a special treat try lunging on an incline for maximum burn!
Leg extensions really define and shape the quads, the muscles at the front of the upper leg. When you perform these (if you have access to the apparatus), never lock the knees out at the top of the movement. Don’t use massive amounts of weight since this can prove to be detrimental to your knees. Instead use manageable weight, do more reps and sets, and go for that nice slow burn.
Calf raises are simple and easy. Begin by using your own body weight as you go up and down on your tip toes. Then as your calves gain size and strength, you can increase resistance by holding dumbbells, kettlebells or even a barbell across your shoulders. As with all lower body weight training exercises, make sure to stretch, rest between sets, and stay mindful of using proper form.
Tom Bonanti is a certified fitness trainer, massage therapist (MA#40288) and writer for Hotspots. Tom has his own gym and massage studio in Ft. Lauderdale www.pumpnincgym.com and can be contacted at trainertomb@aol.com.
source https://hotspotsmagazine.com/2017/06/20/hot-bodies-the-5-best-lower-body-exercises/