Q&A: Actress Chloë Sevigny is Still Drawn to Outsiders

Chloë Sevigny knows the power of words, so she’s very careful with them, warily tiptoeing to the end of an answer when asked about the influence of her seminal trans-landmark film Boys Don’t Cry. The 1999 dramatization of the murder of real-life Nebraskan transgender teen Brandon Teena (Hilary Swank) garnered the 43-year-old indie queen and style icon, who played Teena’s girlfriend, Lana Tisdel, an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actress.

Director Larry Clark’s 1995 film Kids came first, with Sevigny portraying an HIV-positive teen. But Sevigny would go on to amass a body of LGBTQ films and roles, including  If These Walls Could Talk 2, Party Monster, Will & Grace and Broken Flowers, playing Jessica Lange’s lesbian assistant. In 2012, she portrayed trans contract killer Mia in the British miniseries Hit & Miss, a part she now says she’d pass on if it were offered to her today. (Actress Scarlett Johansson recently withdrew from playing a trans character in the forthcoming Rug & Tug after facing LGBTQ backlash.)

Currently, Sevigny stars in and co-produces Lizzie, featuring the actress’ first lead role in her 50-film career. The thriller explores infamous 19th-century alleged murderous Lizzie Borden through a queer lens, which, according to this version, goes like this: Lizzie (Sevigny), to rebuke the patriarch who’s getting in the way of her romantic pursuit of maid Bridget Sullivan (Kristen Stewart), slaughters her father and stepmother with an ax. And so, Sevigny can now add “real-life killer lesbian” to her abundantly gay resume.

What has led you to so many LGBTQ characters? 

The marginalized, the misunderstood, the outcast – you know, I grew up super sensitive as a child, and my brother and I were pretty rebellious in a small town and were really into just questioning the status quo. I have a lot of older peers who are gay and knowing the struggle and what they fought through, and having so much respect and admiration for the times that they’ve lived through – not that the struggle is over by any means, but just the perspective that I think gets lost. Post Trump, with all the conversations that are being had, and everyone’s like “oh god, it’s so horrible; I can’t watch the news,” but thank god everyone is talking about how political the systems are. I really feel like change is happening.

Why do you think you didn’t experience the same backlash that Scarlett Johansson did for signing on to play a trans role? 

It was just a different time then. When they came to me with that role I said, “I don’t understand why you don’t cast a real trans person,” and they said, “We can’t get the funding because we can’t find anyone that has a big enough name, in all honesty.” And I just felt like it was an important story to tell, and I loved the writing and I loved the creators and I wanted to be a part of it. If that opportunity came to me today, I would pass, for sure, 100 percent. It was just, unfortunately, what was acceptable then. I think it wasn’t as challenged, and it should be.

What are your thoughts on whether LGBTQ actors should exclusively be playing LGBTQ roles? And with that in mind, how did you approach Lizzie’s sexuality?  

Well, I want to respect (the community) and their stories and who they are as people, and I feel like (Lizzie and Bridget’s) love was born out of the confines of the environment they were in at the time; they were looking for escape in one another. I feel like it’s kind of beyond the boundaries of queer, straight, you know?

We had a good writer, we had lots of out cast members who really respected the story and wanted to be a part of telling it, and I admire them all for being out and for coming forward and supporting the project. I mean, I feel if gay men or women can play straight, I don’t know (laughs) if it’s fair to do the reverse. But I just hope that there’s more opportunities, for everyone – especially the people who are marginalized.

Did it mean something to you to have someone who is not heterosexual, Kristen Stewart, play Bridget, who is also not heterosexual? 

It… did. But she was also my first choice just as an actor, not the person. I have so much respect for her choices, and I could go on and on about her performances, but I like her persona. For me, I’ve always been attracted to directors or other actors that I feel like have more than just that going on – that aren’t just, like, theater nerds (laughs). Not that there’s anything wrong with theater nerds! But I feel like she really represents something to a lot of generations, with Twilight and beyond.

You’ve said what you had in mind for this film didn’t align with director Craig William Macneill’s finished feature. How about Lizzie and Bridget’s sexuality – was that explored as deeply as you had hoped?  

I think when I said that I was more talking about the process because we had been through so many different incarnations of the script. Things were changing even until the last moment. It’s the power of the edit, things you have to let go of. There was more between our relationship, kind of questioning it, and deciding she doesn’t want to go any further and then coming back. And probably in the overall course of watching the movie it would’ve muddled things, so you kind of have to accept in the edits how things work and how some things don’t, and that’s just the process of filming.

There’s an intimate scene where Bridget and Lizzie almost kiss, but trepidation holds them back. How were you reading Lizzie in that moment? 

She was starved for recognition; she just wanted to be seen as she was and she felt really that she didn’t have a voice, and I think she wasn’t valued by her family or her community and she found somebody who valued her and could hear her and who wanted to listen to her and talk to her. There was so much physical attraction between them, but also just what that person was for her. She was on a quest for freedom, and she goes to the most extreme thing you can do and in the end kind of loses it all.

As someone who’s known for her queer roles, when you get stopped by an LGBTQ person on the street, which film do they tend to most recognize you from? 

Boys Don’t Cry, for sure. They say every actor has one thing that they get recognized or known for, and for me it’s Kids, but from the gay community it’s probably Boys Don’t Cry. I think there are just a lot of reference for that movie and it meant a lot to a lot of people.

Next year marks 20 years since Boys Don’t Cry. How do you reflect on the effect that movie had? 

Just like… I just think at that time when it came out there just wasn’t a lot of representation of that community, on screen or on television or anywhere – oh my god. So sensitive around this subject. (Laughs) I’m always like, I’m gonna get take down for anything I say – it’s just a hotbed. It feels like it’s almost hard to talk about this without feeling under the gun, for some reason. Because it’s like, you can’t say the right thing.

But I feel like it was important to the world. Not even one community in general. As far as building tolerance and acceptance and educating people and portraying a person and seeing the violence acted out against them and how heart-wrenching it is and humanizing a story, it was a really important thing to be a part of. I had read all the articles about Brandon Teena and was already obsessed with the story before being offered the audition and I wanted to be a part of telling that story.

source https://hotspotsmagazine.com/2018/09/27/qa-actress-chloe-sevingny-is-still-drawn-to-outsiders/

‘Boy Erased’ Promotes Responsible Podcasting

Boy Erased promotes responsible podcasting

The upcoming fall film Boy Erased, which stars Lucas Hedges, Nicole Kidman and Russell Crowe, is the true story of a Baptist pastor’s son forced into discredited conversion therapy run by conservative Evangelical Christians. And the filmmakers have hit upon a unique and truly valuable bit of promotional content. They’ll be launching a four-part podcast, UnErased to coincide with Boy Erased’s release. Author Garrard Conley, whose memoir forms the basis of the film, will participate in the podcast, which will focus on real stories of young people forced into the abusive programs, which have affected an estimated 800,000 people since their inception.

UnErased will be made available exclusively to Stitcher Premium subscribers in the weeks before the film’s Nov. 2 release, and available everywhere podcasts are hosted coinciding with that release. There are already laws on the books in some states banning these programs for minors. Let’s hope projects like this help turn the tide and protect queer youth in even more places.

Mrs. Fletcher goes to series at HBO

We write about pilots sometimes, and then that piece of TV hope vanishes into the ether without a trace, abandoned by the network suits, leaving you thinking thoughts like, “Wasn’t The Corrections supposed to be a show at some point? Did it happen? Is it on Starz and nobody told me?” So it’s a pleasure to see one we were hoping would go the distance actually get a series order. The latest project from the amazing Nicole Holofcener, Mrs. Fletcher, starring Kathryn Hahn, has an HBO pickup with no set air date.

The show co-stars Happy Endings alum Casey Wilson and transgender actress Jen Richards (Her Story) in currently unknown roles, and the series will follow the lives of an empty-nester Mom (Hahn) and her college freshman son (Jackson White) as their lives are impacted by internet porn. Holofcener alone makes this appointment television, because if anyone can deal with adult sexual entertainment thoughtfully, it’s her, and we love this cast, as well. One question: will there be promotional tie-in events with Pornhub?

Romeo San Vicente is happy to give your podcast’s Patreon at least one dollar.

 

 

 

source https://hotspotsmagazine.com/2018/09/27/boy-erased-promotes-responsible-podcasting/

Miss Florida F.I. and Mr. Florida M.E. Returns

The 46^th anniversary of the Female Impersonator Miss Florida Pageant will be taking place on Sunday, September 30 and Monday, October 1 at the beautiful new home for Miss Florida: Pier 66 on the 17^th Street Causeway in Fort Lauderdale. The pageant is nicknamed “The Social Event of the Season”   attracting some of the top named female impersonators, and Movie, TV and Fashion stars from across the USofA and beyond.

In the past Miss Florida had celebrity judges including KC and Sunshine Band, Boy George, and Sylvester.

Although many pageant systems have started since, they have followed the lead of Miss Florida F.I. Although Miss Florida F.I. is a state title, the system has always been recognized as a national pageant.

Former winners have gone onto great careers in TV,  movies, and coveted lead roles in shows and cabarets including Las Vegas and P-Town, and have traveled not only across the state of Florida but around the world.  

The current owners plan to uphold the vision of original owners Keith Landon and Rene Rodriguez include, they are:

Alyson Thomas, a seasoned professional in the art form of female impersonation herself for 40 years, brings professionalism, style, stability, and experience to the pageant.  She is also known throughout the country as a leading promoter and supporter to many who have gone on to become national title holders and a coach to newcomers.  Well respected by everyone in the art form, a hands on owner with an eye for detail, coupled with personality, hospitality and vision.

Scott Holland, whose knowledge and experience in the Florida market includes: media and editorial experience, judge to many pageantry systems, a pageant coordinator, public relations, professionalism, and a love for entertainment that cannot be touched. Scott is also Hotspots Media’s very own Associate Publisher.

Victor Zepka and Gary Santis who have owned the pageant for the last 26 years.  They bring 26 years of hands on working knowledge of the system, and the experience that’s makes Miss Florida F.I. rich in history, and memories. Victor brings long standing established relationships with sponsors, vendors and local business and community leaders to the pageant.  Gary continues to create amazing sets, outrageous productions, state of the art sound and lighting, encompassing a show and a night of entertainment not to be missed.

When asked about any new things happening in the Miss Florida System, Alyson Thomas, President, said “We have many exciting plans in the years to come that I think the community is going to love. So far, since resurrecting the Miss Florida system 5 years ago, we have also brought back the Miss Florida F.I, at Large pageant 3 years ago that we produce at the Parliament House, and this year we are excited to be producing for the second Time, the Mr. Florida Male Entertainer pageant that will be held, on Sunday, September 30 also at Pier 66”

This year the Miss Florida F.I. Pageant has some exciting anniversaries, and they are: Cezanne (15^th); Erika Norell (20^th); Esme Russell (25^th); Lakesha Lucky (30^th); Tiffany Arieagus (40^th) and Emore Dubois (45^th).

The crowd is always excited to see the Miss Florida’s in the opening production and to see what they are wearing. At poress time there are 16 confirmed to attend, so it should be a very exciting year.

Who will be your next Miss Florida F.I. and Mr. Florida M.E.? And who will be crowned Honorary Miss Florida F.I. and Honorary Mr. Florida M.E.? There is only one way to find out…go to the Social Event of the Season!

We asked Miss Florida F.I. 2017, the talented Kalah Mendoza, why it was so important for her to become Miss Florida F.I and she said: “From the moment I moved to Florida, I knew I wanted to be Miss Florida F.I. I attended in 2014 to do my research, and then started competing in 2015. I was lucky enough to make the top 5 that year, and the following, and on my third try I was fortunate to be crowned Miss Florida 2017/18, and my life changed. I will forever be grateful for the opportunity to travel the state and meet so many people and make so many good friends. For my sisterhood, the former Miss Florida’s, Thank you for accepting me with open arms. For my successor, I wish a fabulous year filled with love and surprises.”

The Mr. Florida M.E. and Miss Florida F.I. pageant will be held Sunday and Monday, September 30 and October 1 at the beautiful Pier 66 on the 17^th street causeway.  To reserve your hotel room go to:  https://book.passkey.com/go/pageantSept2018. To purchase tickets go to MissFloridaFIPageant.com.

For more information call Scott at 954-478-4587.

source https://hotspotsmagazine.com/2018/09/27/miss-florida-f-i-and-mr-florida-m-e-returns/

Celebrate Orgullo Enters 8th Successful Year

UC|CU’s Celebrate ORGULLO 2018 – South Florida’s first Hispanic LGBT Pride festival – enters its 8th successful year with an International Artists Showcase, ArtDiva Bus Tours, Music, Human Rights Conference, Costume Exhibit, Movie night, the Night of a Thousand Celia’s GALA, and much more… all Celebrating Celia Cruz from Oct. 1-15.

They are honoring the life the Queen of Salsa – CELIA CRUZ, through Art, Music, Dance, Photography, Film and Spoken Word.

The lineup of events are:

Monday, October 1st, 6-8pm – Community Forum – LGBT Media & Activism in Latin America at the Hotel Gaythering featuring Michael Lavers & Lynare Robins, a Free Community Forum & discussion, in partnership with ImpactOUT and the LGBTQI+ Impact Lecture Series.

Tuesday, October 2nd, 7pm – Dinner, Jazz y Porsias Night on South Beach at The Betsy Hotel starting at the Alley Bistro for a special chef selected menu, followed by a night of talents, featuring the music of EnVee & poetry by Caridad Moro-Gronlier. Prefix $40 pp.

Saturday, October 6th, 2-6pm – Art/Diva Bus Tour of Little Haiti. Guests will be met at Arte Fundamental Gallery in Little Haiti, driven to the Sagamore Hotel art exhibit in Miami Beach, then to the American Museum of Cuban Diaspora for an exhibit preview, Vodkatinis & light fare on board, all while being escorted and entertained by Drag Diva Ann Atomic. $40 pp

Saturday, October 6, 11pm to 4am – Noche Latina Saturdays inside the Ivy Dance Room and Patio at the Manor Complex pays tribute to Celia Cruz as a preview to the Night of a Thousand Celia’s. Doors open 11pm to 4am, and there is NO COVER before 12!

Sunday, October 7th, 2-6pm – Art/Diva Bus Tour of historic Cauley Square. Guests will be met at the Douglas Road (37th Avenue & US 1) Metrorail station, then journey south to historic Cauley Square for a walking tour of this quaint & historic Artist Village, visit shops and the Aviary, Vodkatinis & light fare on board, all while being escorted and entertained by Drag Diva DANG HO. $40 pp

Tuesday, October 9th, 7pm – Celia the QUEEN movie night. A feature length documentary film (78 minutes) that pays tribute to the work of a stellar performer who brought the sound of salsa to the world–Celia Cruz. $20 pp.

Wednesday, Oct 10th, 7pm – Artists showcase exhibit featuring juried exhibits and artists at Pridelines Miami. This event will showcase the work of Emilio Aponte-Sierra, with refreshments, music, featuring art, and

celebrating all things Hispanic & Celia Cruz. Learn to salsa with a free lesson from their dance instructors. Free!

Friday, October 12th, 7pm – Celia Gala: Night of a Thousand Celia’s at the American Museum of Cuban Diaspora. This is a unique opportunity to preview the Celia Cruz exhibit before anyone else! Their 300+ guests will be welcomed into the museum for a preview of the exhibit (Exhibit opens to the public on Oct 20th). Alexis Fernandez “Marytrini” to receive Unity Coalition|Coalción Unida’s legends honors award. Once inside, you will be escorted to the rooftop venue for a celebration of music, food, Bacardi Bar, a Celia look-alike contest and much more. $80 pp

To purchase tickets to any or all of their events or for more information go to: http://www.celebrateorgullo.com/

source https://hotspotsmagazine.com/2018/09/27/celebrate-orgullo-enters-8th-succesful-year/

WATCH: Special Guest Host Aulden Brown Joins Shawn Palacious

On the very special 50th episode of Hotspots Live! host Shawn Palacious is joined by DJ extraordinaire Aulden Brown as they count down the hottest cultural events, appearances and live performances in South Florida, including the Top 3 of the week.

Michael also stops by to dish on The Greater Fort Lauderdale Chamber of Commerce GLBX BCA Ally Awards Awards.

source https://hotspotsmagazine.com/2018/09/27/watch-special-guest-host-aulden-brown-joins-shawn-palacious/

Silence Partners

Dear Andreus,

My boyfriend seems to be bored with me. We go out and he is so happy to see everyone else, then when we leave, it’s like he doesn’t even want to talk. Our sex life has diminished as well. What do I do?

Sincerely,

Lonely Boyfriend

Dear Lonely Boyfriend,

It seems like communication is the problem. As difficult and as painful as it may be, you are going to have to find a way to talk. Clearly something has changed in the dynamic of your relationship. The only way to find that out is to ask questions. There are key factors in this type of situation, such as; (1) the amount of time you spend together, (2) do you share common interest (3) do you want and/or expect the same things from your relationship. In essence, it sounds as if maybe your boyfriend is bored, or is looking for something more. Find out what is lacking, and try to address those things with an open mind. The mistake that most people make in relationship is complacency. They get too comfortable, and someone gets bored. You should treat your boyfriend/partner as if every day is your first date. Spontaneity is everything!!

Dear Andreus,

I have been with the same guy for 3 years now. He wants to get married, but is upset that I have not told my parents about us. I am not exactly out to them. How should l handle this?

Sincerely,

Confused

Dear Confused,

I wish I could give you an easy answer. There are many factors at play here. But honestly, if you love him and you are willing to commit your life to him, what is holding you back from telling your family? This man desires to be a permanent fixture in your life, and wants to be completely open about it. Can you blame him? Marriage is something to celebrate for most, and something that most people want to share with their family and their friends. What you now have to decide is how important he is to you. If you cannot tell your family out of fear of disapproval or rejection, then you must ask yourself who is worth losing. Everyone will never be happy about the decisions you make in your life, but ultimately it is your life, and your happiness is paramount. If your family truly loves you, they may not approve, but they will accept.

source https://hotspotsmagazine.com/2018/09/26/silence-partners/

Conversada Con Sleeper

Adora: Sleeper, ¿cómo dijiste que te llamaban ‘Sleeper’? .. Pareces completamente despierto para mí …

Sleeper: Me dieron ese nombre en THE DUMP, (como lo llamábamos), donde vivía y trabajaba después de salir de casa a los 15 años. Hacían fiestas a veces y como yo era el único que todavía estaba en la escuela. Tendría que acostarme temprano para poder levantarme por las mañanas. A esa edad los niños juegan con usted si usted es el primero en desmayarse, si lo hace como dibujar sobre usted o coserle al sofá. Pero si te llamas Sleeper, estás bien. Jaja … No es una historia muy interesante. Aunque funcionó bien para mí.

Más tarde lo adopté como mi nombre de artista: me dio la libertad de expresarme más abiertamente como Sleeper, para tomar riesgos en mi arte. especialmente en Rendimiento a esa edad. Era una especie de herramienta para involucrarme conscientemente en cómo quería dar forma a mi vida más libremente.

Teddy Behr: Cuéntanos un poco acerca de ti: ¿qué es importante para ti en tu práctica artística y por qué?

Sleeper: : Soy un artista que vive en Miami. Principalmente hago trabajos de escultura, performance e instalación.

Terminé en programas de artes escolares desde la escuela primaria. Miami era un lugar bastante bueno para mí; hubo oportunidades para aprender sobre las artes y parecía más o menos bien ser LatinX Queer.

Mi arte y rendimiento están directamente relacionados con el rendimiento del club y los eventos; Me han dicho que es accesible y directo, lo cual tiene sentido para mí … supongo que la forma en que he usado la electrónica y la luz también está relacionada con el rendimiento del club … lo mismo para las imágenes súper reales o surrealistas. Me dicen que hago uso de.

Adora: ¿Cómo comenzó la fiesta ‘Gender Blender’?

Sleeper: Empecé a trabajar en clubes desde una edad muy temprana, era principalmente la escuela durante la semana y el bar y los clubes los fines de semana. Trabajé en casi todas las posiciones, desde busser hasta bar manager. Durante ese tiempo, tuve una idea de los diferentes aspectos de los eventos en ejecución. Realmente nunca parecía ser el tipo de cosa que siempre quise hacer, pero me dio la oportunidad y, finalmente, decidí crear algo que sentía que Miami se estaba perdiendo; así que con la ayuda de gente increíble como Juleisy y Karla, Kesiah, Radskillz, Zehno, (por nombrar algunos) y el personal de The Corner Bar (donde originalmente comenzamos la fiesta ‘Counter Corner’, que precedió a Gender Blender} … ¡Ha sido un viaje! Miami RAN con él … La gente ya estaba aquí, simplemente no tenían un lugar que fuera de ellos.

Soy socio de Party Karloz y Neon Brown en Gender Blender. Habían comenzado el evento juntos y me pidieron desde el principio que me subiera a bordo de la noche Queer Punx. Me identifiqué con su misión y me sentí muy feliz de ser parte de algo más que sentía que Miami necesitaba. Movimos la fiesta de Churchill’s a Las Rosas, (2898Nw 7th Ave, Miami 33127), lo convertimos en un evento gratuito, y el resto se convirtió en una bola de nieve en esta noche mágica que espero con ansias todos los meses.

source https://hotspotsmagazine.com/2018/09/26/conversada-con-sleeper/

Oakland Park’s Oktoberfest Turns 14

The City of Oakland Park has perfected the art of Oktoberfest. The event organizers have learned what works when it comes to food, entertainment and activities and they have listened to attendees to add new features appealing to both adults and families.

“Oakland Park’s annual Oktoberfest celebration is known not only for dancing people, but dashing dachshunds as well,” says the City’s Parks and Leisure Services Director Heidi Burnett who enjoys dressing up in her dirndl for the occasion. “Our sponsorship relationship with Funky Buddha has taken our beer selection and food choices to a level rarely experienced at community and cultural events.”

The 14th Annual Oakland Park Oktoberfest takes place in the City’s downtown Jaco Pastorius Park (4000 N. Dixie Highway) on Friday, October 5 (6 p.m. to 11 p.m.), Saturday, October 6 (1 p.m. to 11 p.m.) and Sunday, October 7 (1 p.m. to 7 p.m.).

Oktoberfest attendees old and new will be pleased the “Central Bark Dachshund Dash” will once again be the Saturday spectacle at 5 p.m. Dachshund owners must register with Central Bark Doggy Day Care at 954-568-3647.

Presenting sponsor Funky Buddha – Oakland Park’s nationally renowned craft brewery – is already brewing up a tasty array of German-inspired seasonal beers, including Floridian Hefeweizen (German wheat beer), Buddafest Marzen (a true German “festbier” brewed with Munich malts), Vibin’ Groovable Lager, Hop Gun IPA, and the award-winning Last Snow Coconut & Coffee Porter.

Besides the bevy of beverages, Oakland Park Oktoberfest offers some traditional Bavarian favorites with a new spin courtesy of the Funky Buddha Craft Food Counter whose chef has elevated grilled bratwurst to a savory taste experience by beer braising and serving with brewer’s cabbage, ale mustard, and caramelized onions on a fresh-baked poppy seed bun.

Funky Buddha Marketing Director John Linn shared some of the other culinary delights on the menu.

“Our chicken schnitzel features Florida Hefeweizen-marinated chicken cutlets pounded thin and served with ale mustard and beer pickles,” Linn said. “The sauerbraten is a German-style pot roast marinated in our Hop Gun IPA, vinegar, and spices and served with roasted root vegetables and a traditional ginger-snap gravy.”

source https://hotspotsmagazine.com/2018/09/26/oakland-parks-oktoberfest-turns-14/

What’s Hot South Florida Sept. 27– Oct. 2

Thursday, September 27

The Pride Center at Equality Park presents “Finding Happiness” an Art Show from 7-9pm in the Shubert Building. The show will feature art from Stephen R Lang, Jimmer O’Rourke, Carina Mask and Chris Chavez.

Throb Thursdays (3901 NW 77th Avenue, Miami) presents Fabulously Fetish where you a get a free gift for being in leather. For more information go to: ThrobThursdays.com.

Starting today and going through Sunday, September 30, My Tropx presents their monthly Ruby Member Sale where everything is 40% off for Ruby Members. For more info go to: MyTropx.com.

Friday, September. 28

The Pub presents the 60th birthday party for former Miss Florida F.I., Former Miss Entertainer of the year, and Former Miss Continental Elite, the one and only ELECTRA. The party/show starts at 9:30pm.

MOCA is celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month with a unique performance by Grammy award-winning artist Nestor Torres as part of its monthly “Jazz at MOCA” series at 8pm. As a flautist, Torres has found inspiration in classical, Cuban, rock, and jazz sounds resulting in a rhythmic and mellifluous flute sound that has become a music genre all by itself. Torres has been nominated for four Latin Grammys and one Grammy nomination, and has won a Latin Grammy award for his CD “This Side of Paradise.” For more info go to: mocanomi.org.

Business for the Arts of Broward (BFA) is hosting a tour of cultural sites in Broward County from 8:15 a.m. to 1:15 p.m. Presented by Hoffman’s Chocolates, the fully-guided tour takes participants for an exploration of the cultural treasures Broward County has to offer. The tour destinations include the Stonewall National Library, the Broward Center for the Performing Arts, the Girls’ Club Collection, IS Projects, and the Fort Lauderdale Historical Society, where lunch will be served. Participants will meet at the Stonewall National Library, 1300 E Sunrise Blvd. in Fort Lauderdale for breakfast and return there at the end of the tour. The tour cost is $50 and includes breakfast, lunch, transportation, networking, admission, and guided behind the scenes tours. To register or for more info call 954-940-5344.

Saturday, September 29

Compass GLCC dares everyone to throw fashion rules out the window and wear white after Labor Day, and join them at Penny’s at the Duke (902 N Dixie Hwy, Lantana) at 7pm for their Annual White Party. There will be dancing, raffles, Jello shots, and of course, there will be general craziness! It’s National Gay Men’s HIV/AIDS Awareness Day and funds raised at the White Party will go towards supporting the Compass SMART Ride Upload and Download Crew! Admission is free.

Noche Latina Saturdays inside the Ivy Dance Room and Patio at the Manor Complex presents the final appearance of Kalah Mendoza, Miss Florida F.I. before she gives up her title on Monday, October 1. The night will also feature special guest Calypso Monroe Lords with guest DJ Ricardo Torres and sexy Latin Go-Go Papi’s.  Inside the Ballroom, they present “Replay” with Diva Anthems, Club hits of today and yesterday with a twist starring DJ Kidd Madonny, as well as productions, and fabulous dancers and décor. Saturdays at the Manor is from 11pm to 4 am and feature NO COVER before midnight (FL Res) and only $7 for members after midnight and $10 for non-members (18-20 – $12 all night).

Sunday, September 30

One of the best pool parties in South Florida just got bigger as Impulse Group South Florida has once again teamed up with Aqua Girl to bring you Evolution, where they invite you to go and dance your Sunday away by the massive 204 foot pool at the National Hotel. Beats will be served up by DJ Whitney Day, and their headlining DJ from Chicago, Cindel. They have also flown in direct from this season of Ru Paul’s Drag Race, Eureka O’Hara. Evolution takes palce from 11am to 7pm and to purchase tickets which are $10 in advance, go to: aquagirl.org/events.

The Pub presents Lady Fancy’s Gospel Jubilee, which is a church of a different kind and features good old fashioned Southern Gospel music at 7 pm.

Tuesday, October 2

The GLBX (Gay and Lesbian Business Exchange) presents their Inaugural Business Community Ally Awards today at 6pm at Pier Sixty-Six Hotel and Marina (2301 SE 17 Street, Fort Lauderdale). This new recognition event with six award categories will showcase individuals along with business and government entities that are successfully doing business with the LGBT+ community, defining and implementing diversity and inclusion policies and supporting worthy related causes. To purchase tickets which are $45-$55, go to: Ftlchamber.com/bca.

Miss Florida F.I. and Mr. Florida M.E 2018

The 46th anniversary of Miss Florida F.I. takes place on Sunday, September 30 and Monday, October 1. at the beautiful Pier 66 Hotel and Marina. The 2nd anniversary of Mr. Florida M.E. will take place on Sunday, September 30. The night will honor the current reigning Miss Florida F.I. Kalah Mendoza, the current reigning Mr. Florida M.E. Antonio Edwards, as well as Cezanne who is celebrating her 15th anniversary, Erika Norell celebrating her 20th anniversary, Esme Russell celebrating her 25th anniversary, Tiffany Arieagus celebrating her 40th anniversary and Emore Dubois celebrating her 45th anniversary. The pageant starts at 8p.m. sharp, but doors open at 6p.m. For tickets, which start at only $50, or to book a hotel room go to: MissFloridaFIpageant.com For more information about the pageant call 954-478-4587.

This is HOT

In an incredible career that’s established him as a both a singular attraction and a one-of-a-kind performer, Kenny Rogers has racked up a songbook like no other. Combining a warm and wise vocal persona with an unmistakable romantic sensibility that’s consistently struck a responsive nerve with his fans, the three-time Grammy-winner maintained a firm hold on the charts through the 1970s and 1980s, establishing himself as America’s most beloved male vocalist in the process.

Rogers, who just celebrated his 80th birthday, has sold more than 120 million albums worldwide, including a diamond award for ten million copies of his album Greatest Hits, which spent an entire decade on Billboard’s album chart and sold over 24 million copies worldwide. 

It’s hard to imagine a more comprehensive keepsake of the Texas-bred hitmaker’s magnificent chart reign than the newly assembled 20-song collection The Best Of Kenny Rogers: Through the Years, released on CD and digital today via Capitol Nashville/UMe. The stellar collection demonstrates the timeless cultural impact of Rogers’ musical output. Through the Years also coincides with the 40th anniversary of the original release of Rogers’ trademark 1978 blockbuster The Gambler. 

Order The Best Of Kenny Rogers: Through The Years now: https://UMe.lnk.to/BestOfKRPR

 

source https://hotspotsmagazine.com/2018/09/26/whats-hot-south-florida-sept-27-oct-2/

Pride Center’s September Mixer at The Grateful Palate

The Pride Center hosted their September Mixer at The Grateful Palate on Fort Lauderdale Beach where they discussed the new Senior Affordable Housing Project and Senior Health Expo. View the full gallery: Pride Center’s September Mixer at The Grateful Palate Photos

source https://hotspotsmagazine.com/2018/09/26/pride-centers-september-mixer-at-the-grateful-palate/

Intensify Your Workouts in Less Time

Face it. Your life is getting busier with each passing day. Certainly, keeping fit and looking fine are top priorities, but do you really have the energy and the time it takes to stay fit? Here are several methods guaranteed to help you tackle better workouts and achieve superior results in less than half the time.

Compound exercises combine two or more exercises, allowing you to train two or more muscle groups at a time. When you think about it, this is how you move in real life, using several different muscle groups at once to perform tasks and get work done. Compound exercises make you work harder, burn more calories, recruit more muscle fibers, and stimulate the release of muscle building hormones like testosterone and human growth hormone.

How do you perform compound exercises? Think of this concept as creative multi-tasking in the gym. Double up alternating dumbbell biceps curls as you perform lunges across the gym to execute a perfect compound set for upper and lower body. Perform dumbbell military presses and side raises as you sit upon a stability ball, thereby working deltoids and core at once. The possibilities are limitless!

Free weights rule when it comes to getting more bang for your buck in less time. Machines are very specialized and you’ve got to move from one machine to another as you work one muscle group at a time. You waste time standing in line, and when they break down, you’re at a loss as to what to do instead. Free weights – barbells, dumbbells, kettle bells – allow you to develop power, strength and endurance as they activate more muscle fibers and force you to work harder.

So, how do you move away from machines and more toward free weights? Step away from the pec deck and sculpt your chest with dumbbell flies reclining on a flat bench. Rather than performing overhead military presses at a universal machine, recruit a pair of dumbbells and perform seated or standing presses. Remember, for every gym machine there are at least a half dozen equivalent free weight exercises you can do instead.

Circuit training combines cardio with weight training to help you build muscle and burn fat at the same time. Moving rapidly from station to

source https://hotspotsmagazine.com/2018/09/25/intensify-your-workouts-in-less-time/

Top 10 of the Week

CONCERT – Troye Sivan

He is gay, he is out, and this super popular recording artist is in South Florida for one night only. The South African-born Australian singer, songwriter, actor and YouTube personality will perform his dreamy, danceable electro-pop music. Opening for Troye are Kim Petras and Leland.

Sat, September 29, 7:30 pm; Bayfront Park Amphitheatre (301 Biscayne Blvd. Miami): Tix: $29.50 to $79; Bayfrontpark.amphitheatermiami.com.

SOCIAL EVENT OF THE SEASON – Miss Florida F.I. Returns

The 46th anniversary of Miss Florida F.I. and the 2nd anniversary of Mr. Florida M.E. will star the current reigning Miss Florida F.I. Kalah Mendoza, the current reigning Mr. Florida M.E. Antonio Edwards, as well as Cezanne who is celebrating her 15th anniversary, Erika Norell celebrating her 20th anniversary, Esme Russell celebrating her 25th anniversary, Tiffany Arieagus celebrating her 40th anniversary and Emore Dubois celebrating her 45th anniversary, and many other of your favorite formers.

Sun and Mon September 30 and October 1; 8pm; Pier Sixty-Six Hotel and Marina (2301 SE 17 Street, Fort Lauderdale); Tix start at $40; MissFloridaFIpageant.com.

COMEDIAN – Louis Anderson

Louie is a best-selling author, sitcom star and an Emmy award winner so it’s no wonder that he has been named “One of the 100 Greatest Stand-Up Comedians of All Time” by Comedy Central. When he’s off screen, Louie continues to do what he loves most: stand-up comedy. Delivering his inimitable brand of humor and warmth to his fans, he shares the ups and downs of his life experiences, crafting routines that ring true for audiences while reducing them to helpless fits of laughter.

Sat, September 29; 8pm; Broward Center for the Performing Arts (201 SW 5th Ave, Fort Lauderdale); Tix: $25-$45; BrowardCenter.org.

AMERICAS GOT TALENT’S – Taylor Williamson

Taylor is a stand-up comic and actor, known for finishing as the runner-up on the eighth season of America’s Got Talent and as a semi-finalist on Last Comic Standing. He was recently named one of their 4 favorite acts of all time in their 10 year AGT Anniversary Special. He was the youngest comedian to ever perform on “The Late Late Show with Craig Ferguson,” and appeared on MTV, Comedy Central, “Last Call with Carson Daly,”

Fri and Sat, September 28 & 29; Boca Black Box (8221 Glades Road #10, Boca Raton); $25 & $35; BocaBlackBox.com.

MOVIES – Night School

A group of troublemakers are forced to attend night school in hope that they’ll pass the GED exam to finish high school.  This comedy stars Tiffany Haddish, Kevin Hart, Brooke Butler, and Keith David.

In theaters Fri Sep 28; Rated PG-13; 111 minutes

TELEVISION – Murphy Brown Returns

Star Candice Bergen and series creator Diane English reunite in this 13-episode revival of the groundbreaking comedy that will find Murphy Brown returning to the airwaves amid a divided nation, chaotic national discourse and rampant attacks on the press. Now back in the game, she is determined to draw the line between good television and honest reporting, proving that the world needs Murphy Brown now more than ever.

Thurs, September 27, CBS; 9:30pm

COUNTRY – Lady Antebellum

The Grammy-winning country trio crossed over into the mainstream with such singles as “Need You Now,” “I Run to You” and “Just a Kiss.” After a brief hiatus, they roared back with the “Heart Break” release, featuring the lead single “You Look Good.” They’re joined by former Hootie & the Blowfish frontman Darius Rucker, who has forged a successful solo career as a country star. Opening is Russell Dickerson.

Sat, September 29, 7pm; Coral Sky Amphitheatre (601 Sansburys Way, West Palm Beach); Tix: $35.25 to $100; Amphitheatrewestpalmbeach.com.

GLBX – Inaugural Business Community Ally Awards

This new recognition event with six award categories will showcase individuals along with business and government entities that are successfully doing business with the LGBT+ community, defining and implementing diversity and inclusion policies and supporting worthy related causes.

Tues, October 2; 6pm; Pier Sixty-Six Hotel and Marina (2301 SE 17 Street, Fort Lauderdale); Tix: $45-$55; Ftlchamber.com/bca.

SNL – Veterans Perform

The lineup of Rob Schneider, Darrell Hammond, Chris Kattan and Finesse Mitchell comprises a quartet of former “Saturday Night Live” stars who have all gone on to solo success as stand-ups, authors and TV and film actors.

Thurs, September 27; 8pm; Seminole Casino Coconut Creek (5550 NW 40th St. Coconut Creek); Tix: $40-$200; Seminolecoconutcreekcasino.com.

MY WAY: A Musical Tribute to Frank Sinatra

MNM Theatre Company presents a musical revue featuring 56 songs recorded by “Ol’ Blue Eyes.” Expect to hear “All of Me,” “All the Way,” “Chicago,” “Fly Me to the Moon,” “High Hopes,” “It Was a Very Good Year,” “Love and Marriage,” “That’s Life” and the title song “My Way.”

Thurs-Sun, September 28-30; Kravis Center for the Performing Arts (701 Okeechobee Blvd., West Palm Beach); Tix: $25-$55; Kravis.org.

source https://hotspotsmagazine.com/2018/09/25/top-10-of-the-week-5/

Brett Kavanaugh Poses Direct Threat to LGBTQ Equality

Well, gay sex was decriminalized in India, so that’s great news. For those of you saying, “Well it’s about TIME, India!” I’d like to remind you that the U.S. didn’t decriminalize gay sex until 2003 (Lawrence v. Texas, holla!). We’re also still arguing about whether women can be in charge of their own bodies and if black people’s lives actually matter. So, don’t give the U.S. too much credit here.

Especially not while we’re staring down the possibility of Brett Kavanaugh becoming a Supreme Court Justice.

That we allowed Donald Trump, a man who should never in a million years have been trusted at the helm of this country, the chance to reshape not only our Supreme Court but the entire federal court system IS NOT A GOOD LOOK, AMERICA. YET HERE WE ARE. And yes, I’m yelling.

As the Human Rights Campaign puts it, “Brett Kavanaugh poses a direct threat to LGBTQ equality, reproductive rights, affordable health care, immigrants’ rights, workers’ rights and so much more.”

This was made clear when Kavanaugh was asked by President (whoops, I mean Senator but President sure sounds good) Kamala Harris if the Supreme Court case Obergefell v. Hodges, which legalized marriage equality, was decided correctly. Kavanaugh refused to give a straight (no pun intended) answer.

“I’m asking you a very specific question. Either you’re willing to answer it or you’re not,” Harris said.

He was not willing.

“Brett Kavanaugh’s refusal to answer very basic, very direct questions about the Supreme Court’s historic ruling bringing marriage equality nationwide is alarming and completely unacceptable,” said HRC President Chad Griffin. “The Obergefell decision is settled law. If this nominee cannot so much as affirm that or the fundamental equality of LGBTQ people and our families, he should not and must not be granted a lifetime appointment to our nation’s highest court.”

And yet it’s pretty likely that he will. Trump’s Supreme Court list was made by the extremist anti-LGBTQ group the Federalist Society, after all. We’ve seen the kinds of lawyers Trump surrounds himself with. It’s clear he’s not picking these guys himself. A willingness, even an eagerness, to overturn Obergefell v. Hodges, maybe even Lawrence, is absolutely required. Oh, and Roe v. Wade, too. It’s been the goal of the extremist right from the moment the case was decided to overturn it. To criminalize abortion all over again. To have women who are desperate to terminate pregnancies do it by any means necessary. I mean for Chrisssake we’ve all seen “Dirty Dancing!”

Put simply, Trump is their best shot. That’s why he can screw all of the porn actresses he wants. That is why he can cheat on all of his wives. That is why he can have so many marriages and divorces. That is why he can brag about grabbing women by the pussy. That is why he can shrug off multiple accusations of sexual harassment and assault. That is why this utterly immoral piece of garbage we call President has the complete and unwavering support of the so-called Moral

source https://hotspotsmagazine.com/2018/09/25/brett-kavanaugh-poses-direct-threat-to-lgbtq-equality/

Q&A: Meet Cover Model Kirk Wells

‘Love, Simon’ Star Natasha Rothwell is Here to School the World

Oh, sure, actress Natasha Rothwell’s scene-stealing drama teacher in out director Greg Berlanti’s groundbreaking gay teen rom-com Love, Simon is bitter – and therefore, funny as all hell – about overseeing amateur teens in a student production of Cabaret. Hey, she had an oh-so-prestigious part in The Lion King musical! (As, um, an extra.)

But Ms. Albright is a dogged ally for life, demonstrating heartfelt compassion for her LGBTQ students when Simon and his queer schoolmate, Ethan, are bullied in the lunchroom. Enter Ms. Albright, who breaks up the fight in true Ms. Albright fashion: “That’s mine now,” she scolds, confiscating the bullies’ speaker. “I’m’ma sell it, get my tubes tied.”

Rothwell knows the teacher life well: She was a high school teacher in the Bronx for four years. Queer students confided in her, some even came out to her. Now, the 37-year-old actress and former SNL writer returns for a third season of actress-writer Issa Rae’s terrific HBO comedy Insecure, as Issa’s freewheeling, zero-fucks friend Kelli. And no details on her role just yet – she couldn’t reveal any during our recent interview, sorry – but Rothwell is also set to star in director Patty Jenkins’ Wonder Woman sequel.

Plenty to chat about until then, though, including the importance of LGBTQ inclusion in her projects and her reaction to the criticism Love, Simon received for not being progressive enough.

Why do you think the women on Insecure have resonated with the queer community? 

I think what attracts the queer community to Insecure is authenticity and seeing a group of women being celebrated on television for being their authentic selves. The courage that it takes for marginalized groups like the LGBTQIA community to be authentic – it’s so difficult and so brave and so admirable to do so that when you see a group of people doing that on screen I can understand why that resonates with the queer community. I feel that way when I see other marginalized groups of people on TV shown as full-fledged characters. I’m like, “Yes, yes, yes!”

It should be noted how effortlessly LGBTQIA just rolled off your tongue. You didn’t stumble over a single letter. 

(Laughs) I think having been a part of Love, Simon and doing press for that I was like, “I’m gonna get this! They’re not gonna get me on camera or on tape!” Because I’m an ally through and through, and they better know I know what I’m talking about. (Laughs)

So, Kelli: Surely her unapologetic boldness – I mean, in season two, she got fingered at a diner – resonates with the community. 

(Laughs) She was living her best life. She’s not gonna apologize for it. Until I got into my 30s, I felt like I was apologizing for being a woman, for being black. The beauty of playing Kelli is I get to have a character match how I now feel, and I get to play a woman who’s never known any different. Like, I imagine this is Kelli from the crib; when she was an infant, till now, she’s only ever known this version of herself. I love playing someone who doesn’t experience doubt in the way I do.

Do you write Kelli? 

We all write Kelli. We’ll do internal table reads of the script and I’ll sit down and get to see what the other room was working on, and I’m like, “Oh shit, I’m getting fingered? OK!” It’s a real team effort to develop her and all the characters.

You’ve cited Lily Tomlin as an influence. How did she influence your comedic voice? 

Female comedians that weren’t trapped by femininity is what resonated with me most. She was such a chameleon, subverting expectations. She plays a little girl (Edith Ann) and she’s sitting in this giant, oversized chair and having this monologue, and she’s so playful and inventive and completely embodies the POV of a small child, and using her body to tell a story. I just remember watching that and being obsessed.

You’re writing a rom-com called Bridal Recall for Paramount Pictures, and you also have a development deal with HBO to write and produce and star in your own project. Will the queer community have a place in those projects? 

If I have a say. To me, I don’t think talking about inclusion and diversity is enough. We have to do it in actuality and in action. One of the brilliant things about Issa’s writers’ room? It’s not all black. We have representation from all over the spectrum. We have different sexualities represented, different ethnicities represented, and we can tell a nuanced story that way. So, I have every intention of making my writers’ room reflect the nuance that I want to tell in those stories, that I feel make worthwhile stories.

What did it mean to you to be a part of Love, Simon? 

It meant everything. When I read the script and the book, I was just honored that I could participate in a project that really felt bigger than myself. The response has been insane and continues to be. People are discovering the movie even still and are responding to it in a really visceral way. I imagine it being that way for young people of color watching Black Panther for the first time. To me, that’s powerful to see your story represented and it’s not – it’s a love story first and a coming out story second.

It’s one of the things where it’s just, I want more of this. I want more people to see themselves represented in this very specific, common way that straight white people have had the privilege of. So, I want to see more of those stories being told, because I’m a child of the ’80s. John Hughes is my jam, and I loved Pretty in Pink and Sixteen Candles. So, to see this story get that treatment was a magical thing. I will be forever grateful to Greg Berlanti for thinking that I could play Ms. Albright. He’s such a wonderful man and encouraged me and brought me to tears. He pulled me aside after I finished shooting and he was just like, “I have the same feeling about you I did when I directed Melissa McCarthy.” And I was like, “You just said a lot in that sentence!” And then I burst into tears. (Laughs)

Do gay fans recognize you as Ms. Albright on the street? 

I don’t get “Hey, Ms. Albright!” I live in West Hollywood and the LGBTQIA community is en masse here and I love it. So, I’ll get recognized from Love, Simon and as Kelli, sometimes at the same time. It’s a great community, and I feel so welcomed and thankful for it.

In an episode during season two of Insecure, you and Issa call out Molly for being revolted by a male suitor because he has sexual history with another man. The episode acknowledges a glaring double-standard between men and women, and also hypermasculinity in black versus white communities. What part did you play in bringing that storyline to light? 

We all talked about our experiences and something that would give us pause before entering into a relationship, or something that we wouldn’t even stop and think twice about. It varied by gender, by sexuality, by age. What boiled up to the top was the hypertoxic masculinity of communities of color, especially the black community. So, we really loved to present that specific part of the show to our audience because it caused conversation around the topic. One of the things that I love about our show is we don’t present answers – we present questions. We want people to have these conversations in a public way.

Recently, a massive Twitterstorm ignited when GQ featured the straight male cast in a photo spread that some deemed “gay.” One of the featured actors, Sarunas Jackson, called out the homophobic tone of the comments. I’m thinking, we’ve already been here. 

We’ve already been here, we already did this, guys. We’ve already evolved. Let’s just move on. But this just goes to show that continued conversation and continued moments for educating yourself are helpful. One of the more palpable things that I think that photo spread did was spark that conversation again, so people can really, once and for all, understand their own toxic masculinity. I was shocked by the number of women jumping on board. I’m like, you were indoctrinated to think that way, and we have to unlearn some things in order to be the progressive, thoughtful, inclusive people that I know we are capable of being.

You responded to people who don’t feel represented by Insecure by telling them, well, then you tell your story, because no one story can encompass all of our stories. Love, Simon received similar criticism for featuring a white man in its lead role, versus someone of color. Would you respond to that criticism in the same way? 

Absolutely. I think I would be remiss to say, “We did it guys. Let’s pack it up! We fixed it! We fixed inclusion in Hollywood!” I think that would be a gross mistake to be made. I don’t look at Insecure and even see myself represented all the time and I write on the show, because this is a story. This is Issa and her girlfriend in Inglewood, California. But what it requires is more art to be made to reflect those things that aren’t being shown. Let’s tell those stories because, if there’s anything I’ve learned when really resonating with audiences lately, it’s a hunger for diversity.

source https://hotspotsmagazine.com/2018/09/20/love-simon-star-natasha-rothwell-is-here-to-school-the-world/

‘Cats’ Gets Release Date, Actor Garret Clayton Comes Out

Thought they were goners? Nope, the Cats have a release date.

When Andrew Lloyd Webber’s musical Cats, based on T.S. Eliot’s Old Possum’s Book of Practical Cats, was the hottest ticket in musical theater, film studios weren’t exactly lining up to make any sort of movie musical, much less one that involved the entire cast frolicking about in kitty costumes. And when they did decide to make one, it was A Chorus Line. But that was before the film musical resurgence; before Chicago, before Les Miserables, before Dreamgirls and whatever The Greatest Showman was supposed to be. It’s been so long that the show became a pop culture joke for decades before regaining some revival respect. It’s been so long that rumors of film versions died more than nine times, and at least one of the upcoming movie version’s stars, Taylor Swift, hasn’t been alive long enough to even know about all this stuff. But now there’s a release date: December 20, 2019. It’s going to go head to head with a new Star Wars movie, unafraid. It’s got Les Mis’ Tom Hooper as director, Ian McKellen co-starring, and Jennifer Hudson as Grizabella, so at least you know “Memory” is in capable hands. Now it seems almost real, and it only took almost 40 years.

Actor Garrett Clayton comes out

Millennial-aged actors are coming out in numbers that feel overwhelming compared to the not-so-recent past when virtually no one did, and they do it on Instagram, which is always a nice, casual touch. So this is an unofficial LGBTQ+ welcome to 27-year-old Garrett Clayton, whom you’ve seen in Hairspray Live, King Cobra, on shows like The Fosters, and – if you’re very young – in Disney Channel productions like Teen Beach Movie. He sings, acts, dances, and looks like Zac Efron’s little brother, which doesn’t hurt at all. And he has half a dozen upcoming projects under his belt, including the bullying drama Reach and the Nicolas Cage drama Between Worlds, both slated for this year, and the horror film Killing Games, currently in production. We’re always happy to report news like this, so go forth and conquer, young gay dude.

Romeo San Vicente is always happy when Hollywood Actors come out!

 

source https://hotspotsmagazine.com/2018/09/20/cats-gets-release-date-actor-garret-clayton-comes-out/

Local Trans Actress Talks ‘She Kills Monsters’

Area Stage Company is presenting She Kills Monsters a play by Qui Nguyen. “Deceptively breezy and rather ingenious. The whole enterprise is kind of dopey and kind of invigorating and kind of remarkable. It will slash and shapeshift its way into your heart” said The New York Times.

It premiered off Broadway at the Flea Theater in 2011, She Kills Monsters tells the story of Agnes Evans, following the death of her sister Tilly, as she prepares to leave her childhood home. Once Agnes discovers Tilly’s Dungeons and Dragons notebook, she is whisked away to begin an adventure of self-discovery filled with homicidal fairies and nasty ogres, appealing to the geek and warrior within us all.

The original production played to sold-out houses and high critical praise. “Packed with action, wit, and a sizeable nerd-quotient, the production is a delight from start to finish.” – Theatremania

A cast of 11 talented actors will tell the story, many of them moving seamlessly from character to character throughout the piece.  

The play will feature original music, hand-drawn animation, and live puppetry to aid in the visual storytelling a tale of high-fantasy requires.  

Local Trans Actress June-Raven Romero  plays three characters throughout the one-act play: the Narrator, an omniscient presence that guides us through the protagonists’ journey,  Vera Martin, a detached High School guidance counselor with a brutally honest demeanor who seems like she’d rather be anywhere else, and Farrah the Faerie, a tiny, foul mouthed, forest dwelling mythical creature. 

Were you always an actress even as a kid?

I have been involved in theater since I was 11 years old. That was the first time I ever stepped foot on a stage and performed an improvised comedy skit, pretending to be a vagrant drunk, meandering in the streets (much to the enjoyment of my sixth grade drama class). I continued to be in productions, thespian and dance troupes all through high school. When I got to college, I sort of hit a wall, and went through a gender identity crisis. I picked up one or two small projects, but mostly did technical work and directing. At 21, I walked into Area Stage Company and auditioned for Sweeney Todd, and ended up landing the lead. (It was sort of an ultimate test of my gender identity conundrum. I wanted to try on a very masculine role for size, and challenge my psyche; no matter what I was going through personally, performing arts was always an escape)

What was your first professional role?

My professional debut didn’t come until I danced with the Pioneer Winter Collective in a piece called Forced Entry and Other Love Stories in February of 2017 at the Goldman Warehouse at the Miami Light Project. Since then, I have been in another piece with the Collective entitled Reprise in March 2018, Cabaret and this production, which I was asked to read for after my performance in Cabaret. I was invited to a table reading of the play about three weeks ago by Giancarlo, and he enjoyed my rendition of the characters so much, he offered me the parts. 

When did you start transitioning and how does it feel to live your life in your true skin?

Since I’ve transitioned, I feel like the world has opened up before me and I can enter the arena of the performing arts as the archetype I want to be remembered as. It’s been a little over two years since I took the leap of faith, and began medically transitioning, and it has paid off in every single way. I am an activist, a person full of passion and ideas, and hopeful for the day that Trans folks can be revered for their cultural, academic, and social contributions like anyone else.

Why should the South Florida audiences come see She Kills Monsters?

She Kills Monsters is a story about belonging, finding community and building bridges of communication between family and friends. Something I think we all need right now, and universal concepts that I know all people will identify with. It’s the story of opening up a world that few know much about and discovering how it’s not so different, at its core, from anything we all love to be a part of. It’s also a great mix of raunchy humor, heartfelt, honest writing and innovative artistic direction. If audiences want to appreciate something truly new and relatively undone, that’s never been imagined this way, this is it. 

You can catch June along with the entire cast of She Kills Monsters at the Area Stage Company (1560 So. Dixie Hwy., Coral Gables) on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays until September 30. To purchase tickets, which range from $10 – $25, or for more info go to:  areastagecompany.com, or call 305-666-2078.

source https://hotspotsmagazine.com/2018/09/20/local-trans-actress-talks-she-kills-monsters/

National LGBT Task Force Miami Gala

National LGBTQ Task Force invites everyone to join them on October 6 at the Fontainebleau Miami Beach from 6:30pm to 12 midnight as the presents their National Leadership Award to Robin Roberts and Sam Champion, two of America’s most beloved television personalities!

Robin Roberts, a longtime ESPN sports anchor, became “Good Morning America” co-anchor in 2005. Under her leadership, the broadcast has won five Emmy Awards for Outstanding Morning Program and the 2017 People’s Choice Award for Favorite Daytime TV Hosting Team. In 2007 and 2008, Roberts documented her successful treatment for breast cancer and in 2012 similarly covered her medical battle against the blood disease myelodysplastic syndrome. In December 2013, she publicly acknowledged her longtime partner, Amber Laign.

Sam Champion is a five-time Emmy and Peabody award winning anchor best-known for his stint on Good Morning America, where he became the first news anchor to come out publicly. He has played a key role in disseminating live coverage from some of America’s most consequential environmental catastrophes, including the Deepwater Horizon oil spill and Super Storm Sandy. In addition to being one of the country’s most trusted anchors, Sam is a passionate advocate for the LGBTQ community. He has raised awareness of HIV prevention, was a recipient of the Human Rights Campaign’s Visibility Award, and he was one of the first openly gay news personalities in the world.

Robin and Sam are not just on-air colleagues, they are close friends. Their friendship and openness has endeared them to millions of people across the country and The Task Force is excited about honoring them at this year’s Gala!

To Purchase tickets to the annual Miami gala, which are $450, go to: thetaskforcegala.org/tickets.

source https://hotspotsmagazine.com/2018/09/20/national-lgbt-task-force-miami-gala/

The SMART Ride Celebrates 15th Anniversary

Fourteen years, 9.3 Million dollars and it’s all given away, that’s how Glen Weinzimer, founder of The SMART Ride started the conversation. Now in its 15^th year, the SMART Ride has worked with organization around Florida to help in the battle against HIV and AIDS.

As they celebrate their 15^th anniversary this November 16^th & 17^th, they reflect back on how far they have come as a state, and as a community in the fight against HIV. In 2003, the first year of SMART Ride (Southern Most AIDS/HIV Ride) there was no PREP, caution was your best defense and a condom. Today we have very mixed messages and an upswing in new infections throughout Florida and especially in Dade and Broward County where we lead the nation in new cases, says Weinzimer. It can be very frustrating to put all this energy into fighting a disease which is preventable, working with our 6 benefiting agencies and knowing we are making a difference but yet at times we feel overwhelmed with the statistics coming out. How do we reach millennials? How do we get people to understand their lives are at stake? How do we teach people and make them really pay attention? These are just some of Weinzimer’s thoughts today.

This year, the 15^th for SMART Ride, the event will take place from the University of Miami and travel south to Key West over two days. Along the way, there will be rest stops that supply everything from water to Gatorade, bananas to bagels, all in an effort to keep the riders fueled and safe along their journey. SMART Ride has over 250 volunteers that do everything from drive trucks to deliver water, they travel with a medical team as well as massage therapists, a caterer, a ceremonies team, route markers, sweepers, sag and rider transport vehicles and so much more to anticipate everyone’s needs. The ride doesn’t just raise about a million dollars a year, it also raises awareness by their presence on the road. Last year over 10,000 people made donations to the participants. That means 10,000 people were called to action, and said the word AIDS. Too often people think AIDS is a thing of the past, when in fact it is a story that has yet had an ending to it, says Weinzimer.

Join the SMART Ride this November 16^th & 17^th, the cost to register as a rider or crew is $135 and includes your overnight housing in the middle keys (Hawks Cay Resort), your food and so much more. Each rider commits to raise at least $1250 and on average they raise over $2,000. The goal for this year is $1.5Million, the most ever raised on this event. For more information, or to register as an individual or group go to thesmartride.org.

Principle agencies benefiting from this year’s event are AH of Monroe County, Pridelines in Dade County, Broward House in Broward County, Children’s Diagnostic & Treatment Center in Broward County, Compass in Palm Beach, Miracle of Love in Orlando and Metro Wellness & Community Centers in Tampa/St Pete.

source https://hotspotsmagazine.com/2018/09/19/the-smart-ride-celebrates-15th-anniversary/

GLBX Community Ally Awards

The GLBX (Gay and Lesbian Business Exchange) Business Community Ally Awards presented by Pier Sixty-Six Hotel & Marina (2301 SE 17 Street Fort Lauderdale) will debut on Tuesday, October 2, from 6 – 8 p.m. This new recognition event with six award categories will showcase individuals along with business and government entities that are successfully doing business with the LGBT+ community, defining and implementing diversity and inclusion policies and supporting worthy related causes. This year’s category winners are: Business Ally (Citrix), Business Leader (Susan Renneisen/Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino), Impact (Ilene Berliner & Mark Ketchum), Advocate (City of Wilton Manors), Legacy (Steve Rothaus) and Visionary (Greater Fort Lauderdale Convention & Visitors Bureau).

“The GLBX is thrilled to launch this inaugural event which offers a glimpse into how individuals and businesses are working together to be more inclusive and engaged with the LGBT+ community,” said Michael Goodman, GLBX board chair. “As a Council of the Greater Fort Lauderdale Chamber of Commerce, we are proud to honor LGBT business leaders and allies who are actively creating change and doing business as part of a diverse thriving economy.”

Guests will enjoy a cocktail reception while overlooking the city from almost every point of view in The Pier Top Restaurant at Pier Sixty-Six Hotel & Marina. An open bar, culinary delights and entertainment will complement the awards ceremony which will be presented by local business leaders and sponsors. Complimentary valet parking is included in the ticket price.

“Pier Sixty-Six Hotel & Marina is a proud supporter of many local causes and events that make our community shine as a great place to live, work and visit,” said Amaury Piedra, general manager of Pier Sixty-Six Hotel and Marina. “We are excited to help launch this new awards program in support of the Chamber as we showcase our amazing property and amenities for hotel guests, social events and business meetings.”

Sponsors of this event are Pier Sixty-Six Hotel & Marina as the lead presenter, Seminole Hard Rock Hotel and Casino, Memorial Healthcare System, The Eppy Group, Hotspots Media Group, The Galleria at Fort Lauderdale, Gold Coast Magazine, Bow Tie Gurl and GPR/Goodman Public Relations.

Tickets for the GLBX BCA Awards at the Pier Top Restaurant at the Pier Sixty-Six Hotel & Marina are $45 for members and $55 for non-members and can be purchased at www.ftlchamber.com/bca.

source https://hotspotsmagazine.com/2018/09/20/glbx-community-ally-awards/

Conexiones: La Belleza de Mexico y su Cultura

Mexico
Cuando de México hablamos, hay muchas cosas lindas y deliciosas; entre ellas sus platillos, su pintoresco folklor sus paisajes y su bella gente. Pero, México también es muy rico en historia.

Los Estados unidos Mexicanos de norte America
El movimiento independentista mexicano tiene como marco la Ilustración y las revoluciones liberales de la última parte del siglo XVIII. Por esa época la élite comenzaba a reflexionar acerca de las relaciones de España con sus colonias. Los cambios en la estructura social y política derivados de las reformas borbónicas, a los que se sumó una profunda crisis económica en Nueva España, también generaron un malestar entre algunos segmentos de la población.
La ocupación francesa de la metrópoli en 1808 desencadenó en Nueva España una crisis política que desembocó en el movimiento armado. En ese año, el rey Carlos IV y Fernando VII abdicaron sucesivamente en favor de Napoleón Bonaparte, que dejó la corona de España a su hermano José Bonaparte. Como respuesta, el ayuntamiento de México —con apoyo del virrey José de Iturrigaray— reclamó la soberanía en ausencia del rey legítimo; la reacción condujo a un golpe de Estado contra el virrey y llevó a la cárcel a los cabecillas del movimiento.
A pesar de la derrota de los criollos en la Ciudad de México en 1808, en otras ciudades de Nueva España se reunieron pequeños grupos de conjurados que pretendieron seguir los pasos del ayuntamiento de México. Tal fue el caso de la conjura de Valladolid, descubierta en 1809 y cuyos participantes fueron puestos en prisión. En 1810, los conspiradores de Querétaro estuvieron a punto de correr la misma suerte pero, al verse descubiertos, optaron por tomar las armas el 16 de septiembre en compañía de los habitantes indígenas y campesinos del pueblo de Dolores (Guanajuato), convocados por el cura Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla.

Entre otros aspectos importantes de México, podemos hablar de los tres lugares turísticos. Entre los más reconocidos están:

Ciudad de México:
Capital de México, una metrópoli famosa por su vibrante vida urbana, congregando museos de relevancia mundial, emblemáticos sitios históricos, masivos festivales, glamorosas avenidas, tiendas, restaurantes, y por supuesto, una de las noches más animadas de Latinoamérica.
Entre sus atractivos principales, destaca un fascinante centro histórico declarado Patrimonio de la Humanidad por la Unesco, con impresionantes sitios de la cultura Azteca, que dan cuenta de una historia de desarrollo humano de más de 3.000 años y joyas coloniales de los siglos XVI al XIX. En sus entornos, no se puede dejar de mencionar la vecina Teotihuacán con sus gigantes pirámides del sol y la luna.

Los Cabos:
Considerado uno de los lugares turísticos de México de mayor belleza, deslumbrando con sus kilómetros de playas bañadas por el Mar de Cortés, famosas por sus arenas doradas y aguas turquesas, inmersas entre paisajes de montaña y desierto. Esta zona, también hace parte del conjunto de islas y áreas protegidas del Golfo de California, declaradas por su riqueza natural, Patrimonio de la Humanidad por la Unesco.
El pintoresco pueblo de San José del Cabo, la vida nocturna del Cabo San Lucas y las grandes cadenas hoteleras en el Corredor turístico, conforman las tres áreas de Los Cabos, constituyendo en su conjunto un espectacular destino cuya oferta combina el ecoturismo, práctica de deportes, descanso y entretenimiento.

Cancún:
Isla reconocida por sus playas de arena blanca y agua turquesa, entre el Mar Caribe y la Laguna Nichupté, hogar del segundo arrecife de coral más importante del mundo después de la Gran Barrera Australiana, en un entorno selvático y próximo a los milenarios vestigios arqueológicos de la Rivera Maya y Chichén Itzá.

Dentro de sus atractivos principales, destacan una franja de 23 kilómetros de playas, numerosos hoteles pertenecientes a cadenas multinacionales, centros de spa, campos de golf y cientos de restaurantes, que logran en su conjunto uno de los balnearios con mejor infraestructura turística del mundo.
Entre otras cosas importantes a rezaltar sobre Mexico, el matrimonio gay es completamente legal y México está entre los primeros países en legalizar el matrimonio entre parejas del mismo sexo, el cual está patentado con todos los códigos de la constitución mexicana.

Ahora bien, vamos a hablar de lo que más nos gusta que es la gastronomía. A continuación hago mención de algunos de ellos con sus respectivo ingredientes:

Tinga de pollo
Hecha con pollo desmenuzado cocido en una salsa de chipotle riquísima. Sirve sobre tostadas.

Cochinita pibil
Carne de cerdo cocida a presión en su marinada de achiote con chiles guajillos y jugo de naranja dulce. Se sirve con su tradicional salsa de cebolla morada y habanero.

Carne en su jugo estilo Jalisco
Trozos delgados de carne de res cocidos en su jugo y servidos con frijoles de la olla, tocino, chile y cebolla. Una tradición tapatía que te va a fascinar.

When we speak of Mexico, there are many beautiful and delicious things; among them its dishes, its picturesque folklore, its landscapes and its beautiful people. But, Mexico is also very rich in history.

The United Mexican States of North America
The Mexican independence movement has as its framework the Enlightenment and the liberal revolutions of the last part of the XVIII century. At that time the elite began to reflect on the relations of Spain with its colonies. The changes in the social and political structure derived from the Bourbon reforms, to which was added a deep economic crisis in New Spain, also generated discomfort among some segments of the population.
The French occupation of the metropolis in 1808 unleashed a political crisis in New Spain that culminated in the armed movement. In that year, King Carlos IV and Fernando VII abdicated successively in favor of Napoleón Bonaparte, who left the crown of Spain to his brother José Bonaparte. In response, the city of Mexico -with the support of Viceroy José de Iturrigaray- claimed sovereignty in the absence of the legitimate king; the reaction led to a coup d’état against the viceroy and led to the imprisonment of the leaders of the movement.
Despite the defeat of the criollos in Mexico City in 1808, in other cities of New Spain small groups of conspirators met to pretend to follow the steps of the city of Mexico. Such was the case of the plot of Valladolid, discovered in 1809 and whose participants were put in prison. In 1810, the conspirators of Querétaro were about to suffer the same fate but, finding themselves discovered, they chose to take up arms on September 16 in the company of the indigenous inhabitants and peasants of the town of Dolores (Guanajuato), summoned by the priest Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla.

Among other important aspects of Mexico, we can talk about the three tourist places. Among the most recognized are:

Mexico City:
Capital of Mexico, a metropolis famous for its vibrant urban life, bringing together world-renowned museums, emblematic historical sites, massive festivals, glamorous avenues, shops, restaurants, and of course, one of the liveliest nights in Latin America.
Its main attractions include a fascinating historic center declared a World Heritage Site by Unesco, with impressive sites of the Aztec culture, which account for a human development history of more than 3,000 years and colonial jewels from the 16th to the 19th centuries. . In its surroundings, one can not fail to mention the neighboring Teotihuacán with its giant pyramids of the sun and the moon.

Los Cabos:
Considered one of the most beautiful tourist places in Mexico, dazzling with its kilometers of beaches bathed by the Sea of Cortez, famous for its golden sands and turquoise waters, immersed between mountain and desert landscapes. This area is also part of the group of islands and protected areas of the Gulf of California, declared for their natural wealth, a World Heritage Site by Unesco.
The picturesque town of San José del Cabo, the nightlife of Cabo San Lucas and the large hotel chains in the tourist corridor, make up the three areas of Los Cabos, constituting as a whole a spectacular destination whose offer combines ecotourism, sports practice , rest and entertainment.

Cancun:
Island recognized for its white sand beaches and turquoise water, between the Caribbean Sea and the Nichupté Lagoon, home of the second most important coral reef in the world after the Great Australian Barrier, in a jungle environment and close to the ancient archaeological remains of the Mayan Riviera and Chichen Itza.

Among its main attractions, there is a strip of 23 kilometers of beaches, numerous hotels belonging to multinational chains, spa centers, golf courses and hundreds of restaurants, which together make up one of the spas with the best tourist infrastructure in the world.
Among other important things to rethink about Mexico, gay marriage is completely legal and Mexico is among the first countries to legalize same-sex marriage, which is patented with all the codes of the Mexican constitution.

Now, let’s talk about what we like the most about gastronomy. Below I mention some of them with their respective ingredients:

Chicken Tinga
Made with shredded chicken cooked in a rich chipotle sauce. Serves on toast.

Cochinita Pibil
Pork meat cooked in pressure in its achiote marinade with guajillo chiles and sweet orange juice. It is served with its traditional purple and habanero onion sauce.

Meat in its Juice Jalisco-Style
Thin pieces of beef cooked in their juice and served with beans from the pot, bacon, chili and onion. A tapatía tradition that will fascinate you.

source https://hotspotsmagazine.com/2018/09/19/conexiones-la-belleza-de-mexico-y-su-cultura/