Hotspots! December 12, 2019

ENJOY EMPLOYEE PRICING THIS MONTH ON NEW VEHICLES! McKinley Conner mckinleyc@ja-ag.com | 954-952-1759

954.943.6700 | www.JoeyAccardiCDJR.com 909 South Federal Highway · Pompano Beach

CREDITS

12.12 ��� � Publisher Peter Clark

Peter@HotspotsMedia.com

Associate Publisher Scott Holland

Scott@HotspotsMedia.com

Business Manager Brian Burda

Brian@HotspotsMedia.com

Classifieds Manager Jim Nolen

Classifieds@HotspotsMedia.com

Art Director Frank Mendez

Frank@HotspotsMedia.com

Graphics

Graphics@HotspotsMedia.com

Maria Espinal

Digital Content Manager

Troy@HotspotsMedia.com

Troy Maillis Sales Team

Sales@HotspotsMedia.com

Senior Account Reps Anthony Verrico & Rich LoPrimo Tom Gatz-Nibbio National Advertising Rivendell Media

212-242-6863 • sales@rivendellmedia.com

Writers Carlos Marrero | Troy Maillis Scott Holland | Ian Maloney D'Anne Witkowski Chris Azzopardi | Oscar Ambulo Mikey Rox | Romeo San Vicente Photographers Stephen R. Lang | J.R. Davis Scott Holland | Juan Saco Mironoff Logistics Bobby Neal Furedi | Oscar Ambulo

Hotspots.LGBT | MarksList.LGBT 3500 N.E. 12th Avenue • Oakland Park, FL 33334 Broward Office: 954-928-1862 • Miami Office: 305-775-5265 • Central Florida Office: 813-253-9107 HotspotsMediaGroup.com • Facebook.com/HotspotsMag • Twitter.com/HotspotsFL

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O N T H E INSIDE

December 12, 2019

Holiday Gift Guide

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Over 40 Items We Love

10 u 30 u 54 u 56 u 66 u 72 u 76 u 82 u 86 u 102 u

What’s Hot | Scott Holland’s Guide to Events in SoFla Deep Inside Hollywood Things that Make You Go Hmmm...

Feature | Easy Christmas Dinner The Hot List | Top 10 Happenings in South Florida This Week Creep of the Week | Tony Perkins Hot Bodies | Don't Let the Holidays Spoil Your Workouts!

The Frivolist | 6 Reasons to Eat Out This Year For Your Holiday Suppers Feature | The Nutcracker Hot Advice | Fem and Dainty

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DIRECTORY OF LGBT AND LGBT-FRIENDLY BUSINESSES

HOT SHOTS:

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Fashion Forward

What to Wear to Holiday Parties Circuit Festival Miami • Flip Flops • Hurricane Showdown Leather Masked Ball • World AIDS Day

WHAT’S HOT

By Scott Holland

What’s HOT

South Florida

L

ast Wednesday Georgie's Alibi/Monkey Bar presented the third annual Mr. Alipig

Contest with 3 contestants competing for this title.

On Thursday, there were 3 events around town: the first was at the Pub where they

presented their 6th annual Holiday Wreath Auction hosted by Electra. Local businesses and individuals donated one of a kind 10 | Hotspots.LGBT

holiday wreaths and 100% of the money raised went to Kids in Distress.

Hunters hosted their annual “Glad to Give Gala” where the $50 donation, along with the silent auction

Calendar Release Party. We were able to get a copy of the calendar and meet the sexy dancers that were in the calendar.

On Friday, Starbucks at 2309 N federal Highway in fort Lauderdale presented their first ”Drag Bingo” hosted by Paris Lenore and

items were split amongst two charities: The Smart Ride and Julian's Fountain of Youth. Congrats to Mark and his staff for once again putting on an upscale event!

Then we headed to

Rianna Petrone with DJ Joshua Atom. It was a blast!

This past week was the annual Art Basel Miami Beach, and once again it was a huge success with events all over the beach.

Congrats to the organizers and all the artists!

Johnsons where they presented their 2020

Everything you need to plan your week

uTHURSDAY DEC 12 The Miami-Dade Gay & Lesbian Chamber of Commerce (MDGLCC) and Pridelines in collaboration with the LGBT Visitor Center present the 10th Annual HoliGay Celebration & Toy Drive from 6-9pm. Wannabe Santa's from the entire community are invited to bring an unwrapped toy (or $20) as a contribution to the Miami Beach Police Department's Children's Holiday Relief Fund for distribution to children in need. The jolly old elf will be

making a special guest appearance and posing for selfies at the event which will feature complimentary cocktails by Grey Goose Vodka, and other Bacardi brands. Complimentary food and other beverages will be available for the delight of guests courtesy of Starbucks, South Beach Group Hotels, Pizza Rustica, and Crepemaker among others.

There will also be festive music by DJ JesiMixx of Event Party Productions. u FRIDAY DEC 13

Cirque Du Soleil is revisiting its legendary

Alegría through today's lens—including new costumes and set design, a renewed acrobatic vocabulary, and new musical arrangements —to ensure it is as inspiring now as it was at the time of its creation in 1994. Alegrıá is the reincarnation of a classic, reinterpreted for the age, and rekindled to inspire fans—old and new alike, and run from today through February 17 under the big top next to Hard Rock Stadium.

Tickets start at $42 at Cirquedusoleil.com/alegria.

Slow Burn Theatre Co. presents A Christmas Story, The Musical from today through December 29 at the Broward Center for the Performing Arts. Following a successful Broadway run garnering three 2013 Tony Award nominations

including Best Musical, Best Book Of A Musical, and Best Original Score, along with six Drama Desk nominations, and two Outer Critics Circle nominations.

This is a triple-dog-dare of a good time and it is sure to warm your heart for the holiday season! Tickets are $49-$65 at

BrowardCenter.org

Miami City Ballet presents George Balanchine's The Nutcracker at the Arst Center from today through December 22. Step into this magical world of toy soldiers, colorful characters and the enchanting “Dance of the Sugarplum Fairy,” set to the music of Tchaikovsky performed by a live orchestra. Create unforgettable memories with friends and family – make it your cherished holiday tradition! Tickets are $30 at ArshtCenter.org. uSaturday, December 14 SATURDAY DEC 14 The Seminole Hardrock Hotel and Casino presents the 48th Annual Winterfest Boat Parade With the theme “Lights, Camera, Action – Movies on Parade.” Private boats to the giant showboats and corporate megayachts will be adorned with hundreds of thousands of lights, music, entertainment, decorations, celebrities, musical groups, beauty

queens and many other exciting entries expected to be viewed by over one million spectators. It's 12 Hotspots.LGBT | 11

Miles of the “Greatest Show on H20” starting at 6:30pm.

The Miami Gay Men's Chorus presents “Home for the Holidays” featuring the South Florida Jewish Chorale at 8pm at Coral Gables Congregational United Church of Christ (3010 De Soto Boulevard, Coral Gables), and then again tomorrow Sunday, December 15 at 8pm at All Souls Episcopal Church (4025 Pine Tree Drive, Miami Beach).

Tickets: $25 (adults), children 12 and under FREE at MGMchorus.org

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The House of Alibi presents their monthly “Black” starring DJ AJ Reddy.

The Club Fort Lauderdale presents their monthly Cumunion party form 3-7pm. Also, tonight Squirt.org will be having their 20th anniversary party from 3pm to midnight.

The Ramrod presents their monthly Underground Invasion (2nd Saturday of the month), where it's all about the music with this month's DJ, Bryan Hukill.

HOT

u THIS IS

MEET ME UNDER THE MISTLETOE INGREDIENTS:

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Holiday Cocktails

Featuring Stoli and Barefoot · 3 ounces Barefoot Bubbly Extra Dry · 6 mint sprigs (approximately 1215 leaves) · ½ ounce maple syrup · 2/3 ounce E&J Gallo XO Brandy · Candy Cane

DIRECTIONS: 1. Place mint leaves in a cocktail shaker with ice 2. Add maple syrup and brandy 3. Shake hard to break up the mint 4. Strain into a rocks glass filled with crushed ice 5. Top with Barefoot Bubbly Extra Dry 6. Garnish with candy cane

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Noche Latina Saturdays inside the Ivy Dance Room and Patio at The Manor Complex Salutes the Latin Diva's:J-LO, Ivy Queen, Gloria Treviñ o, Shakira starring Sasha Lords and Juliana Rivera (Miss Noche Latina 2019) along with Guest DJ Cubano Miik and sexy Latin Go-Go Papi's. Saturdays at the Manor are from 11pm to 4am and feature No Cover before midnight for Fl Res. After Midnight admission is only $7 for members and $10 for non-members (1820 - $12 all night).

u WEDNESDAY DEC 18 The Greater Fort Lauderdale LGBT Chamber of Commerce presents their Holiday Networking luncheon from 11:30am to 1pm at Thasos Greek Taverna (3330 Oakland Park Blvd). The chef at Thasos will create a wonderful 3-course plated lunch, served with sparkling or still water. The cost (including tax and gratuity) is $40 for members and $45 for non-members.

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4. Strain into chilled cocktail glass.

5. Place sugar coated raspberries on pick across glass

HOLIDAY FROST INGREDIENTS: · 3 ounces Barefoot Sweet Red · 1/2 ounce Raspberry Liqueur · 1 ounce Pomegranate Juice · 1/4 ounce Lime Juice · 1/4 ounce Simple Syrup · Sugar Coated Raspberries Garnish DIRECTIONS: 1. Gently roll raspberries in granulated sugar and place on a cocktail pick. Set aside.

2. Combine all liquid ingredients in a cocktail shaker with ice.

3. Shake until well chilled.

STOLI BABY NEW YEAR INGREDIENTS: · 1.5 parts Stoli Razberi · 1 part sweet Riesling · 0.5 parts fresh lemon juice · Champagne DIRECTIONS: Combine all ingredients (except champagne) in a shaker with ice.

Shake and strain into a champagne flute.

Top with champagne and garnish with a fresh raspberry.

uEmail WhatsHot@HotspotsMedia.com to have your items considered for What’s Hot

Hotspots.LGBT | 13

FASHION FORWARD

By Carlos Marrero Fashion Editor | Instagram:@camarrero

HOLIDAY PARTIES What to Wear

The Smart Casual GetTogether - The ambiguous “smart casual” has become a go-to dress code for everything from afternoon

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The Smart Casual Get Together - JohnVarvatos.com

The Work Party – Your work party out it will depend on the formality level of your of ice. They've all seen your everyday look. This is the time to step it up a bit and dress to stand out among a sea of boring looks! A new sweater, button-down, or suit that your coworkers haven't seen you in can do the trick. To up your style game a notch, throw on a blazer (you can always take it off when the party gets hot).

Also - don't wear a Santa hat.

The Work Party - TomFord.com

Can you believe that Christmas and New Year's are just around the corner?

I mean literally! There's still so much to do: buying gifts, wrapping up work goals, coordinating travel plans - you name it!

Despite all the holiday shenanigans, there's always something to look forward to… the parties! Holiday parties are all different, from ugly sweater themes to dirty Santa gift exchanges, to all-out formal.

You already have enough to worry about, so I've put together a few ideas to help you look stylish though this holiday season.

feel comfortable looking this good, because there's nothing worse than wearing something you're not committed to.

Whatever party and whatever you wear, just make sure you feel like a million bucks! And, of course, always party responsibly.

The Ugly Sweater Party – To be fair, I've never quite understood this concept.

I'm pretty sure it was created by a stylechallenged guy one year and it somehow took off. However, just because your sweater is ugly doesn't mean the rest of your out it should be. This is the party that gives you permission to dress ridiculously, so go for it and do the ugly sweater - but pair it with solid colored chinos, add a button-down shirt, and seal the deal with somewhat dressy kicks. Opt for some black or brown boots, oxfords, or even squeaky clean white sneakers.

The All-Out Formal/NYE Party - Unless you are spending it at a bar…step it up! This is the time to truly look your best and sport a velvet or printed jacket or dare I say it - A tuxedo! There's nothing wrong with being the best-dressed person at the party. Just make sure you

The All-Out Formal Party - Zara.com

The Ugly Sweater Party - FunkyChristmasSweater.com

weddings to birthday dinners with friends. No need to wear a suit here, but you must always be presentable. Add a sweater or shawl cardigan over an oxford shirt and pair with chinos or jeans to bring your look together.

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deep inside HOLLYWOOD

By Romeo San Vicente

Colin Farrell travels The North Water Andrew Haigh (Weekend, 45 Years) is busy working on a new limited series, The North Water. Haigh adapted the novel by Ian McGuire and is directing the BBC four-parter due in 2020. Colin Farrell stars as a harpooner on an Arctic whaling expedition (he also happens to be a murderous psychopath, but nobody's perfect). On board he meets a ship's doctor (Jack O'Connell, Unbroken) who's not quite ready for the encounter or for the brutal journey of survival the two will come to share. Supporting cast includes acclaimed actorfilmmaker Peter Mullan (Ozark) and legendary British character actor Tom Courtenay (45 Years, and, you

30 | Hotspots.LGBT

know, little movies like Doctor Zhivago). It's not necessarily a queer-specific story – even if the captain of this TV ship is – but it's already reminding us a little bit of The Lighthouse, with its vibe of tortured, toxic, freaked-out masculinity and sublimated homoerotic rage.

So this'll be fun!

stage revival at London's National Theatre (a production so popular it was brought back for encore performances in 2019).

Featuring the musical theater standards “Broadway Baby,” “I'm Still Here” and “Losing My Mind,” (famously covered

by Liza Minnelli and The Pet Shop Boys in the late '80s) the story is set in a Broadway theater scheduled for demolition, where a reunion of former performers is taking place. The middle-ageto-senior cast tell stories of success and disappointment and heartbreak, so when casting shapes up (somebody ask Liza!) it's going to be a who's who of baby boomer (and older) Broadway babies.

No word yet on who they'll be, or when it's supposed to hit screens, so more on this one soon.

Follies on film, finally

Stephen Sondheim's Tony Award-winning 1971 musical Follies is getting the movie treatment, deservedly so, after nearly 50 years. Filmmaker Dominic Cooke (On Chesil Beach) will adapt the show, after directing the 2017

Romeo San Vicente loves anything to do with Stephen Sondheim!

By Scott Holland With the Holidays just around the corner, I thought I would give you some suggestions on items for your loved ones that I love. As is the case every year, the items I suggest are reasonably price from $6.99 to $1,600. I figure if you can afford more than $1,600 per gift, you don't need my help…LOL! I would like to take this opportunity to wish everyone a happy and healthy Holiday Season.

CINCORO Tequila: Blanco, Reposado, Añejo and Extra Añejo ($70, $90, $130 and $1,600) - Cincoro.com.

As a result of years of research, blending, tasting, and development, Cincoro was released with one goal in mind: to create the new gold standard in tequila. The result is a one-of-a-kind tequila experience akin to a cognac or fine wine.

Food & Liquor 36 | Hotspots.LGBT

Vermont Handcrafted Marshmallow Holiday Box - $35 Nomadic-kitchen.com

A complete reinterpretation of the campfire favorite, Nomadic Kitchen's marshmallows are handcrafted, boldy-flavored, and as pillowy as they come. This delicious holiday gift box features four limited-time flavors: toasty vanilla, buttered rum, gingerbread, and peppermint.

Jaisalmer Indian Craft Gin - Jaisalmergin.com – Price varies

An exquisite, triple-distilled neutral grain spirit, made using 11 botanicals, most being unique to India. Named after the historic city in northwest India, nicknamed “the Golden City”, this elevated gin's richness in flavor will have you feeling like you are drinking royalty

Ruinart Sillery - sold in a collectible, signed wooden box alongside a bottle of Ruinart Blanc de Blancs for $99.99 - Clos19.com

This is an exclusive spice blend that celebrates and complements the famed Ruinart Blanc de Blancs. This spice blend features the tingling, citric hints of Japanese sanso pepper combined with the light sweetness of honey, and amchur and is perfect for elevating your holiday dishes this season including pork, seafood and stone fruits.

Diplomatico Rum Rondiplomatico.com – Price varies

This is an elegant and complex sipping rum, carefully crafted from the purest of sugar cane honeys. It is delicately distilled in ancient copper pot stills and aged in small oak casks for up to twelve years. Marrying a unique body with excellent balance has made it a reference for rum lovers and connoisseurs throughout the world.

Hotspots.LGBT | 37

Epic Popcorn – Coming Out Mix - $34.95 – EpicPopcorn.com

The Coming Out Box offers three LGBTQ+ Pridethemed gourmet popcorn flavors: Pride Mix - a delicious blend of caramel coated popcorn with a generous cheddar dusting and bold cheddar cheese; Rainbow Mix - a beautiful mix of Epic's most popular fruit flavors; and Love is Love Mix - a sweet and spicy mix everyone loves featuring Epic Caramel, Kettle Corn and Whoa Mama Flavors

Whitley Neill Handcrafted Quince Gin – Whitleyneill.com – Price varies

The aroma of fresh stone fruits appears immediately, gently followed by hints of juniper and citrus zest. The distinctive flavor of quince dominates the palate, giving way to the sweetness of apricots and peaches, with a long, fruity finish that opens out into orange blossoms and zesty grapefruits.

>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> Rubik's Tilt - $24.99 – Misc Amazon.com

Bio Bidet Portable Travel Bidet $49.95 - Biggaybidet.com This is the must-have travel accessory to keep fresh and clean while on the go. It does not require batteries and is instead chargeable through a USB cable that plugs into any computer, wall outlet; even a car! A convenient carrying case is also included. Not only is the portable travel bidet more efficient and hygienic than tissue paper, it is also more environmentally friendly.

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The innovative new way to play Rubik's is an electronic handheld game, featuring a “virtual” Rubik's Cube on a high resolution, high definition screen.

Rubik's Tilt requires brain power and hand/eye coordination.

Motion controls the game - Twist, Turn and Tilt to move the columns, rows, and sides. Added features include speed timer, sound control, three levels of play, and a “hints” feature that helps you learn the moves to solve the puzzle!

Sempli Crystal Infusing Incanter - $65 Thegrommet.com With a signature spinning bottom, Sempli has created a new way to infuse your favorite spirits.

Simply cut up your favorite flavors and place them into the infuser tube, pour in your spirit of choice, and spin away. The flavors will fuse together, creating unique drinks with each use.

Barbarian Bar Tools 9-in-1 Bar Multi-Tool - $59.95 Thegrommet.com

CHART Metalworks Regatta Key Ring - $75 - Thegrommet.com

An innovative bar tool will make your next Happy Hour even happier. This heavy-duty multi-tasker combines the essential cocktail making tools with the body of a citrus juicer.

Zest, cut, measure and more with less bulk and hassle. The design is sturdy but streamlined, and is perfectly sized to store at home or take along on camping or boating trips.

Display a customized map with the Regatta Key Ring. Whether you choose your hometown or a far away city, it will serve as a lovely reminder of a place that's close to your heart.

Kooduu Bluetooth Speaker & Wine Cooler Lamp - $139 - Thegrommet.com Ready, set, party with a Bluetooth speaker cooler and LED light that combines all the essential moodsetting elements. Stream a playlist from your phone (for up to eight hours per charge), cast an ambient soft glow, and chill bottles of wine, beer, or any drinks you like.

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Tesalate Towel - $59 - Tesalate.com

This is an innovative sand-free towel from Australia that is both fashionable and functional. It's also perfect for yoga, picnics, and any outdoor activity. Perfect for travelers and a great gift for just about any special occasion. These vibrant beach towels are made with AbsorbLite fabric. Which repels sand, and rapidly dries compared to regular ones, yet it can absorb at least 1 (33 oz.) liter of water. It's also compact and light.

Drop Wipes - $10.95 for a 10-pack - DropWipes.com These are car wipes designed to easily and effectively remove bird poop from your car exterior. These cleaning wipes are intended to help keep your car exterior looking brand new, help maintain the car's value and help keep your car clean in-between washes.

MotoChic Performance Socks - $18 – Motochicgear.com/shop/performance-socks Constructed for comfort with 25 mmHg (high grade) compression to provide extra TLC for your legs and feet, these knee high socks are designed to make you look and feel outstanding. The high quality, moisture-wicking polyamide fabric offers comfort and flexibility while reducing odor and inhibiting fungus and bacteria growth. Available in black or gray.

The Dakota Wallet - $60 -

Motochicgear.com

This Leather Wallet keeps everything precious close at hand whether you wear it as a wristlet, clip it to your belt loop, or put it in your pocket.

Comes in Red, Tan, or Black

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Zoonocorn – Zoonicorn.com This company presents a new apparel line for infants, toddlers and early elementary age kids. The line features a dreamland of magical characters kids love and includes onesies, bibs, dresses, and tees.

NoSweat - 12 pack $17.99 - Nosweatco.com They are thin, breathable liners that stick inside of headwear to instantly wick away sweat to prevent acne, odors, stains and other annoying side effects of sweat (perfect for that Florida weather!) The company makes liners for hats, visors, hard hats, and helmets, and are backed by some of the biggest names in sports including Golden Tate, TJ Oshie and Dallas Keuchel!

My Charge Power Lumens - $59.99 – Amazon.com

My Charge has been a player in the battery bank game for a while, but the Power Lumens is a battery pack that also doubles as a flashlight that delivers a powerful light source. One side has the light source which packs a punch, and the bottom half of the other side has the kickstand. On top, you can find two USB Type-A ports and a micro USB port in between for charging the battery pack.

Snoozies – $14.99-$16.99 Snoozies.com

This is about the 4th or 5th time I feature them, as you know I love me some Snoozies (cross between and sock and a slipper), and they have now come up with some new fabulous designs.

Hotspots.LGBT | 41

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Books / DVDs / CDs Just Peachy - By Belinda Smith-Sullivan – Hardcover $21.99

Who doesn't love a sweet and juicy peach? Long associated with summer, this new book shows that peaches can be a year-round treat and provides a vast array of delicious recipes all showcasing the versatile peach that can delight holiday meals.

Baker's Passport - By Susie Norris – Paperback $18

The holiday season is all about family and friends gathering together around the dining table. Nothing says celebration like a recipe that was baked with love.

Baking is an international language, an art form, and for some, a calling. The term applies to everything that comes out of the oven: soufflé s, meat and poultry, cakes, sweet and savory pies, breads, and of course cookies

Holiday Jubilee – By Charles Phoenix – Hardcover $29.95

This book serves up an intoxicating, action-packed extravaganza of America's favorite seasonal traditions past, present and future. It's loaded with never-before-seen vintage kodachrome slides, rare collectibles, and epic, original recipes for eye popping edible holiday center pieces and party potluck pleasures. Your imagination will be inspired and your spirit will soar!

The U.S. Constitution, An Owners Manuel - By Stuart Matranga –$19.95 Midgardeducation.com

This was originally written as a textbook for young adults studying American History and social studies, but is an innovative guide for readers of all ages trying to make sense of this critical but now highly divisive American Symbol.

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Pride Leadership: Strategies for the LGBTQ+ Leader – By Dr. Steven R. Yacovelli - $24.95 – Amazon.com

Pride Leadership examines the unique experiences of the LGBTQ+ community, and shows how those experiences can be called on to develop powerful leadership skills. This long overdue exploration of LGBTQ+ leaders is insightful and inclusive, and many will find it transforms how they approach authentic leadership.

Watch The Sky DVD - $11.49 – Target.com or Walmart.com

In an effort to capture amateur video of outer space, two young brothers unexpectedly find themselves in harm's way when an innocent science experiment becomes a day filled with unearthly events threatening their sleepy coastal town.

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“The West Christmas Ever” - $6.99 - on iTunes, Google Play and other music outlets

This new EP features interludes narrated from Father Christmas, voiced by the Disney Legend Jim Cummings (Winnie The Pooh, Tigger, Pete, Darkwing Duck, Ducktales), telling the story of Nina The Extra Elf. Nina continues to celebrate her hometown of Columbus, Ohio by featuring a collaboration the Vox Ensemble of the Columbus Gay Men's Chorus on the track “Santa Will be Gone”.

Health & Beauty Veritas Farms Full Spectrum Starter Kit - $97 Theveritasfarms.com

When gifting CBD, you may not know which product works best with giftee. Rather than choosing just one product, Veritas Farms offers a Full Spectrum Hemp Kit with all of its popular products including tinctures, salves, capsules, salves and lip balm. This 4-pack makes the perfect gift for anyone on the journey to be truly healthy.

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Bromance Exfoliating Face Wash – $22

Perfectly Posh Men's Products – PerfectlyPosh.com Hunk Chunk Bath Bar – $12

This Bath Bar is blended with lava rock and charcoal, as well as astringent essential oils to exfoliate and help clear pores/ It also features nourishing shea butter and Greek yogurt to soothe skin.

Rebound Facemask – $20

Everything Mask - $48Nongenderspecific.com

A multi-functional clay mask that clears, restores, and renews, featuring a blend of Kaolin, Bentonite and Illite clay that gently & effectively unclog pores and helps to decrease breakouts. A powerful mix of potent botanicals, extracts, and Apricot Seed Powder help to gently exfoliate, brighten skin, reduce dark spots and refine texture. 100% Vegan, cruelty free, and paraben free 44 | Hotspots.LGBT

This is specifically formulated for the needs of a man's face and neck with thermal mud, charcoal, and bluegreen algae. It helps rough skin rebound by clearing pores, tightening skin and adding a boost of hydration.

This exfoliating face wash features sugarcane-derived scrubbing beads to help remove dirt, excess oil and dead skin to reveal a cleaner, clearer looking complexion. Cucumber fruit extract and aloe vera work to soothe, condition and add moisture while still focusing on a deep cleanse.

BeardMat: Beard Trimming Mat - $14.99 - Thegrommet.com

Keep your bathroom clean when you trim your beard, mustache, or hair. This three-foot square non-stick fabric attaches to your mirror and covers the sink and countertop while you're grooming. When you're done, the hairs slide off the nonstick surface and into the trash. No more hair everywhere.

Jolly Skin Set – $115 - Ceramiracle.com The is an award-winning hydration regime comprising their best-seller, First Light Ceramides Skin Supplement, and their cult-favorite First Light The Serum for that instantly glowing skin. This holiday set comes with a SAM Bear. As a bearer of love and kindness, SAM, or Share-A-Miracle, Bear makes his appearance once again for the festive season.

Portland Beard Company - Beard Oil - $20 Thegrommet.com

Like any hairstyle, the best tressed beards require handling. There is no shortage of oils and products on the market for the hair on your head. Now, there's a solution for facial hair. From the Portland Beard Company comes an oil treatment designed to calm your skin and tame your beard at the same time.

Founders and friends Stephanie and Paris (a.k.a. Beauty and The Beard) created the Argan oil-based elixir after Stephanie noticed Paris was incessantly scratching his face and whiskers. Known as "liquid gold" around the world, Argan oil is mixed with Vitamin E, meadowfoam seed and essential oils. The blend keeps beards soft, smooth, and clean, while the underlying skin remains itch-free.

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Gallantly Yours: Skincare For Him Gift Set - on sale for $100 (Reg $157) Pevonia.com

Explore the soft side of rugged! Experience the ultra-hydrating power of this nonirritating set precisely formulated for proven performance and scientifically developed to address the distinct differences of male skin. Features: AquaGel Foaming Cleanser for Him, Collagen Boost Face Balm for Him, and RapidRestore Lip Balm in a Men's Pevonia Branded Dopp Kit.

Eraclea - Their philosophy is to not only meet our client's high expectations, but also to raise the bar in the skin care industry by offering a luxurious line of nourishing, rejuvenating products that demonstrate proven effectiveness at an affordable price.

Hydrate Eye Surround Cream + CBD - $65

A light, targeted, hydrating and firming cream designed specifically for the delicate eye area.

Rejuvenate calming facial mist +CBD $75

A CBD infused cooling mist with organic aloe, Vitamin B5 and allantoin to soothe and calm the skin.

Scentbird - $14.95 a month – Scentbird.com

Get a monthly supply of the fragrance of your choice (free shipping), and you can cancel anytime. Select from their collection of 450+ designer and niche fragrances. Get a generous supply of fragrance (0.27oz/ 8ml) in a travel-friendly spray. Free refillable case with your first order. Every month, their birdies will deliver your fragrance right to your door.

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WE’RE HIRING! Join Florida’s Largest LGBT Media Network We Are Looking For: Editor / Digital Content Co-Ordinator This exciting position oversees content across all of our media platforms. The Editor is responsible for creating and accumulating quality content that resonates with our vibrant LGBT community. This is a part time position that requires about 20 hours a week.

Sales Account Executive for Hotspots Live & Hotspots Digital The successful candidate will continue building a strategic relationship within our vibrant LGBT business community leading to the acquisition of new clients.

You must have a proven track record of success and a fundamental understanding of digital media. More importantly, you need to be fun, outgoing and willing to learn. Full and part time positions available.

Send Resume to: Peter@HotspotsMedia.com Hotspots.LGBT

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Hmmm…

Let’s Dance

We recently marveled at the surprising fact that a same-sex pair were dancing up a storm and making some serious waves on the Danish version of “Dancing With the Stars.” Now they’ve also made some serious history! Comedian Jakob Fauerby, 42, and his dancing partner Silas Holst, 36, are now the first same-sex couple to win the overall title.

“What do I say? It’s fantastic,” Fauerby told Danish news site BT. “For once, I am speechless.”

“We would not have stood here if Denmark did not have an open mind and also had courage and dared to do so,” Holst said.

“It’s a sense of pride, the pride of diversity, and the Danes.”

Will the U.S. version capitalize on this historic moment and cast a same-sex duo of its own? In the meantime, I just want to f*cking dance!

Source: ThinkProgress.org

By Troy Maillis

Photo: Wikimedia.org - Gage Skidmore

Things That Make You Go

Actions Speak Louder Than Words Presidential hopeful Pete Buttigieg is slowly but surely

ascending the ranks of the Democratic Party. Despite some recent criticisms, including ringing The Salvation Army Bell (tsk-tsk), the 37-year-old mayor of South Bend, Indiana is gaining in the polls.

In addition to being the first out LGBTQ candidate who has a legitimate shot at winning his party’s nomination, Buttigieg just scored another first. VoteVets, a liberal political action committee that backs veterans running for office, recently announced their support for Mayor Pete.

“We need a candidate who will win,” VoteVets Chairman Jon Soltz said in a statement. “Bar none, Pete gives us the best shot at doing just that. It is time to rally around him, and stop the walking, talking national security threat that is Donald Trump.”

Source: HuffPost

Would You Tap That?

Who says straight guys get to have all the fun?

Although drinking beer with the bros is traditionally considered a hetero-centric pastime, not everyone is convinced that knocking back a cold one is only for one type of man. Case in point: the founders of Gay Beer!

Jon Moore and Jason Pazmino, who have been deemed the hot daddies of beer, first introduced the gluten-reduced golden lager to the market last December. The craft beer, which invites its target market to “Go straight for Gay Beer,” is sold at over 50 retail locations, including Whole Foods.

“The beer market has a reputation for being sup-

54 | Hotspots.LGBT

portive of frat boys, the manly men,” said Moore. “We thought of calling it Gay Beer and not being ashamed about it.”

After a successful year on the market, they are hoping to offer two new flavors, an IPA and a blonde ale, in 2020.

Source: LGBTQ Nation

Easy Christmas Dinner There is something to be said about tradition, but there is not any harm in having fun and trying new things during the holidays. Ever since I can remember, there was a turkey and a ham. So I decided to change things up again, keeping in fashion with poultry and pork. Hope you enjoy these easy recipes.

Happy Holidays from my home to yours!

by Andreus Q

Roasted Cornish Hens

Roasted Cornish Hens

Preheat oven to 375° F. Take 5-6 Cornish Hens.

Cut them lengthwise directly down the middle starting at the neck and through the breast.

Thoroughly clean them by rinsing them with cold water and removing any giblets or extras.

Rinse again and pat them dry with paper towels. Mix a stick of softened butter with a ½ teaspoon of Italian seasoning or herb de Provence. Massage about a tablespoon of butter

56 | Hotspots.LGBT

gently between the skin and lesh of each hen, being sure not to completely separate the skin from the bird (you want to create pocket of butter inside). Squeeze about a half lemon over each hen half, rub with a little olive oil, and then lightly season (to your discretion) with salt, pepper, and freshly chopped rosemary. Place hen halves on a baking sheet, placing one slice of lemon and one slightly crushed garlic clove under each half, and bake for 1 hour, ensuring that the skin is nice and deep golden brown. Allow to rest 5-10 minutes and serve!

Spiced Rubbed Pork Loin

Preheat oven to 450° F. Take one 3-4lb pork loin and rinse it thoroughly. Pat it dry, and with a sharp knife, remove any skin from the pork. In small bowl, mix together 2 tablespoons of chili powder, 1 tablespoon of Adobe w/pepper, 1 teaspoon of cumin, 2 teaspoons of dark brown sugar and ¼

Spiced Rubbed Pork Loin

teaspoon of cinnamon, until well combined.

Add 1 ½ tablespoons of olive oil to the spice mixture and mix well. Rub loin completely with spice mixture making sure to massage it well. Place in a foil lined baking pan or Pyrex dish. Place in oven and bake for 10 minutes at 450° F, then reduce temperature to 350° F and roast for another hour to hour and 15 minutes. Remove loin from oven and allow to rest for at least 10 minutes before carving.

Serve with rendered juices.

Remove from basket, and in a saucepan over medium heat, lightly roast ½ cup of almond slivers 3 cloves of minced garlic and 2 sprigs of chopped Italian parsley for about 5 minutes. Add the steamed string beans and continue to sauté for another couple of minutes. Remove from heat. Toss with ½ teaspoon of salt, ½ teaspoon of freshly ground pepper and ¼ cup of freshly grated parmesan cheese. Serve immediately.

Candied Sweet Potatoes

Preheat oven to 375° F. Peel and slice 5-6 large sweet potatoes into ½ inch slices. Arrange in a buttered 9x13 Pyrex dish. In a medium saucepan melt ½ cup of salted butter, add ¾ cup granulated sugar, 1 teaspoon of cinnamon, ½ teaspoon of ginger, ½ teaspoon of nutmeg, ½ cup of brown sugar, ½ Green Beans with Almond Silvers teaspoon of salt, and 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract. Be sure that mixture melts down. Pour over sweet potato slices, coating well. Bake for 30 minutes covered with foil. Remove foil, spoon mixture over sweet potatoes, and bake for another 30 minutes uncovered.

Green Beans with Almond Slivers

Place 1 ½ pounds of trimmed fresh string beans in a steam basket over boiling water, ensuring that the water is just below the basket. Steam for approximately 8-10 minutes or to your desired level of tenderness.

Candied Sweet Potatoes

Apple Crisp

Pear Walnut Stuffing

Pear Walnut Stuffing

Heat oven to 350° F. Peel and core three small to medium size ripe pears into bite size pieces, and place in a bowl, tossing with the juice of one lemon. Set aside. In a large sauce pan, place ¼ cup of butter and sauté ¾ lb. of mild sausage and one medium diced onion until sausage is cooked through, making sure to break the sausage up well during the cooking process. Add the pear, along with 1 cup diced celery, 2 minced garlic cloves, 1 cup toasted walnuts, 1/4 cup Fresh parsley, 1 tablespoon of fresh sage, 1 tablespoon dried thyme, 1 teaspoon of kosher salt, and 1/2 teaspoon of freshly ground pepper. Remove from heat and fold in 10 cups of assorted bread cubes, and 2 1/2 cups of chicken broth. Place in a wellgreased (with butter), 13- x 9-inch baking pan and bake for 45-50 minutes until golden brown.

Apple Crisp

Preheat oven to 350 F. Lightly butter an 8x8 Pyrex dish. In a large mixing bowl combine 1 cup of brown sugar, 1 cup of all-purpose lour, 1 cup of Quaker oats, and ¼ stick of melted butter until it forms crumbles. Peel, core and chop 3 apples and mix well in a bowl with ½ cup of granulated sugar and 2 teaspoons of cinnamon. Place half the crumb mixture in the bottom of the pan, and then

58 | Hotspots.LGBT

pour in the apple mixture covering completely.

Top off the mixture with the remaining crumb mixture and bake for 40 to 45 minutes until golden brown. Serve hot or cold with vanilla ice cream.

Comfy Cider

In a medium pot combine 3 cups of apple cider, 1 cup of water, 1 sliced lemon, and ¾ cup of sugar. Bring to a simmer of medium high heat until sugar completely dissolved. Remove from heat and stir in 2 cups of Southern Comfort (or your favorite whiskey). Serve in slightly cooled glasses with lemon slices and a cinnamon stick for garnish. Enjoy!

Comfy Cider

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MADONNA - MADAME X TOUR Madame X is a collection of 15 new songs that celebrate Madonna’s career-long affair with Latin music and culture as well as other global influences. Madonna has released 5 songs including the infectious pop gem “Crave” featuring Swae Lee, the empowering ballad “I Rise,” the critically-acclaimed “Medellín,” electronic reggae-flavored “Future” featuring Quavo as well as the sonically innovative “Dark Ballet.” X TOUR Now through Sunday, December 22; The Fillmore at the Jackie Gleason Theater (1700 Washington Avenue) Miami Beach; Tix: Start at $153; Fillmoremb.com.

MOVIE - CATS A tribe of cats called the Jellicles must decide yearly which one will ascend to the Heaviside Layer and come back to a new Jellicle life. This comedy, drama, family, fantasy, musical stars James Corden, Judi Dench, Jason Derulo, Idris Elba, Jennifer Hudson, Ian McKellen, Taylor Swift, Rebel Wilson, and introducing Francesca Hayward.

Premieres Friday, December 20; Rated PG COUNTRY ICON - LEANN RIMES Ring in the holiday season with this Grammy Award winning artist on her You and Me and Christmas tour. Rimes will sing holiday classics, plus music from her hit Hallmark movie, it’s Christmas Eve. Sat, December 14; 8pm; Seminole Casino Coconut Creek at the Pavilion (5550 NW 40th St, Coconut Creek); Tix: start at $40; Seminolecoconutcreekcasino.com.

THE TEN TENORS: HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS They are undoubtedly one of Australia’s most successful touring entertainment groups of all time, with more than 90 million people worldwide witnessing their unmistakable charm, camaraderie and vocal power. Home for the Holidays is a magical experience for the whole family that will dazzle, delight and captivate audiences.

Thu, December 19; 8pm; Parker Playhouse (707 NE 8th St, Fort Lauderdale); Tix: $38-$58; Parkerplayhouse.com.

VIOLINIST - LINDSEY STIRLING Lindsey Stirling has become of the 21st century’s most innovative stars by clinging to her groundbreaking vision of cinematic violin-driven electronic music. She released her first ever holiday album titled Warmer in the Winter in 2017 which became the #1 best-selling Christmas album and highest-performing holiday album on Pandora with 40 million spins that year.

Sat, December 21; 8pm; Broward Center for the Performing Arts (201 SW 5th Ave, Fort Lauderdale); Tix: $40-$90; BrowardCenter.org

>>>>> Dec 14 - Dec 21

6 7 8 9

COMEDIAN - JIM GAFFIGAN Known for his unique brand of humor, which largely revolves around his observations on life, Jim is one of America’s most popular stand-up comedians. A 4-time Grammy nominee, actor, writer, producer and two-time New York Times best-selling author, Gaffigan will be seen in an unprecedented 7 feature films this year. He is touring with his The Pale Tourist Tour Fri and Sat, December 21 & 22; Kravis Center for the Performing Arts (701 Okeechobee Boulevard, West Palm); Tix: starts at $35; Kravis.org GMCSFL – WITH JORDAN SPARKS The Gay Men’s Chorus of South Florida’s highly anticipated holiday concert returns with “Holidays at Hard Rock Live!” accompanied by Grammy nominated, multi-platinum, singer/songwriter, actress, and American Idol winner Jordin Sparks.

Sun, December 15; 7pm; Hard Rock Live at the Seminole Hardrock Hollywood Hotel and Casino (1 Seminole Way, Hollywood); tix: $40 to $80; Seminolehardrockhollywood.com/ COMEDIAN - MICHAEL YO A 2-time Emmy nominee, Michael is a comedian/actor/host keeping busy in all of Hollywood’s platforms. In stand up, Michael came up under the wings of Chelsea Handler & Jo Koy & now headlines all over the country.

Thurs, December 19 through Sun 22; The Comedy Club (5747 Seminole Way, Hollywood); Tix: $21; Seminolehardrockhollywood.com/ BRAVO - HOLIDAYS WITH THE REAL HOUSEWIVES Grab a Christmas cocktail and join TV’s Celebrity Housewives for the ultimate Girls Night Out - an intimate evening of festive season memories with Dolores Catania (New Jersey), Ramona Singer (New York) and Kelly Dodd (Orange County) - onstage in person talking about their amazing personal lives, their Holiday traditions with their cherished families, their sensational businesses and how fame has changed their lives forever. The evening will also feature special guest host Rhonda Shear.

Tues, December 17; 7:30pm; Parker Playhouse (707 NE 8th St, Fort Lauderdale); Tix: $37-$87; Parkerplayhouse.com

10

CELEBRATE THE FESTIVAL OF LIGHTS The Hanukkah Factory is the nation’s first-ever immersive Hanukkah pop-up experience celebrating the festival of lights and its eight crazy nights. Enjoy multiple themed rooms, unique interactive experiences, and dedicated Hanukkah-themed life-size game room that will ignite the inner child in everyone! Perfect backdrops for taking holiday selfies and family photos.

All ages.

Wed, December 18 through Sun, January 5; The Hanukkah Factory (8770 SW 131 Street, Miami); Tix: start at $18; hanukkahfactory.com.

Hotspots.LGBT | 67

TONY PERKINS

I

s America ready for a gay president? No way say the people who currently support with blind fealty and reverence a president who is a corrupt serial adulterer rapist half-wit.

A president can be many things, but not a homo. That is a bridge too far for the American people!

But some people are starting to freak out a little bit, because there's been polling that shows Sworn Gay Pete Buttigieg leading in Iowa.

Which obviously means he has this whole thing in the bag and also that this whole thing is gay now, as is the bag.

Even if Buttigieg does win the Iowa caucus, that hardly means he's going to go on to win the nomination. Bill Clinton, George H.W. Bush and Ronald Reagan, for example, all lost Iowa but ended up becoming their party's Numero Uno. A win in Iowa for a candidate like Buttigieg isn't insignificant, however it would bestow some extra credibility on his candidacy that has seemed like a long shot to many. It would prime the fundraising pump and would also be a historic “holy shit, a gay dude just won the Iowa caucus” kind of moment.

Buttigieg's appeal stems in part from his vocal embrace of his Christian faith, something that has rankled right-wing Christians like Tony Perkins of the Family Research Council, an organization dedicated to dismantling any gains LGBTQ people have made in the U.S. and preventing any others.

On the Nov. 21 edition of the Family Research Council's "Washington Watch" podcast, Perkins and David Closson, also of the FRC, claim that Buttigieg can't possibly be a

72 | Hotspots.LGBT

OF THE WEEK

BY D'ANNE WITKOWSKI

real Christian. “[Buttigieg is] actually twisting God's word to advance a political agenda that is antithetical to biblical Christianity,” Closson says, presumably with a straight face.

I mean, come on. As if the religious right doesn't conveniently cherry-pick parts of the Bible to support their ideology. They literally HAVE TO DO THAT in order to support Trump.

In a justification for why the right-wing Christians supported Trump, someone on the right said something about Trump being an “imperfect messenger.”

According to Vox, evangelicals see Trump as an “unlikely 'vessel': someone God has chosen for an important historical purpose, despite not looking like — or having the religious character of — an obvious man of God.” In other words, we don't care if this man is trash so long as he can bring about the end to Roe v. Wade and gay marriage.

Perkins zeroes in on an interview Buttigieg did with Rolling Stone magazine in which he criticized “people who are avowedly Christian” who “get themselves into bed with a president like [Trump.]”

Perkins resends by asking, “Well, what about supporting a man who gets in bed with another man? I think that's really the issue here when you talk about biblical Christianity. The Bible speaks very clearly about the issue of homosexuality, and ... it's amazing to me that he would so use Scripture when he is ... openly in a lifestyle that is contrary to the teaching of both the Old and the New Testaments.”

Ahem. SCRIPTURE IS ALSO CLEAR ABOUT ADULTERY. Not to mention the fact that Trump apparently interpreted the Seven Deadly Sins not as a cautionary list, but an aspirational one.

It's a curious response, notable for the fact that while Trump gets a pass with it comes to all of his sins and transgressions, Buttigieg does not. Because to Perkins being gay is worse than literally anything else. Buttigieg cannot be an “unlikely vessel.” He doesn't get the benefit of the doubt.

Closson says, “The irony of Mayor Pete Buttigieg lecturing Christians on the ethical content of Christianity when, like you just said, this is a man who is married to another man, again, when Scripture is just super clear.”

Ahem. SCRIPTURE IS ALSO CLEAR ABOUT ADULTERY. Not to mention the fact that Trump apparently interpreted the Seven Deadly Sins not as a cautionary list, but an aspirational one.

But please, do go on about how Buttigieg's happy marriage to his husband Chasten is the deal-breaker here.

Being gay, argues Peter LaBarbera of Americans for Truth About Homosexuality, “is the ultimate blasphemy” and that Buttigieg “is

making a farce out of Christianity.”

“The media will pretend that a man like Peter Buttigieg kissing his so-called husband is just like a man kissing his wife,” LaBarbera told OneNewsNow. "But the average Joe on the street, the average American, will not believe that. And I do not believe that an openly homosexual, far-left progressive candidate like Pete Buttigieg — I do not think the American public is ready for that."

And so we've come full circle. Actually, scratch that. “Full circle” implies that there's something orderly and logical to the argument that Trump is a divine gift while Buttigieg is the spawn of the devil. Who was it again making a farce out of Christianity?

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.

Hotspots.LGBT | 73

HOT BODIES by Tom Bonanti

Don't Let the Holidays Spoil Your Workouts!

I

t's been estimated that the average American male between the ages of 25 and 55 puts on nearly five to ten pounds every year during the holiday season. While this sobering statistic may seem extreme, it is hardly an exaggeration when you think of the extra parties, drinking, and eating that goes on at yuletide. Sure, it's great to make merry, but don't let the extra commitments and excitement rob you of those very important workouts.

Here are some practical pointers to help you stick to your fitness goals and stay in the gym despite the daunting temptations ahead.

1

1. Schedule your workouts and settle for no compromises! Worried that you won't have time to hit the gym? Consider

76 | Hotspots.LGBT

shifting your training. Try weights and cardio first thing in the morning. You may have to get up earlier, but you have the satisfaction of

knowing that you've jumpstarted your metabolism and burned off some serious calories.

2

2. Speed up your workouts and challenge yourself. Train two body parts with a continuous superset technique. For example,

train chest and back with alternating sets. Pair dumbbell flat bench presses with dumbbell bentover rows for three to four sets. Work at one station with the same weight if you can, so as not to waste time changing weights.

3. Pump up the intensity. You may not have a full hour to train, but you can have a dynamite

3

workout in 20-30 minutes. The key here is to use a challenging weight and perform more reps and sets in rapid succession. Take less rest between sets. Move from station to station quickly and avoid distractions.

4. If you can't beat them, join them. Take the holiday season off to rest and regroup. Many

4

body builders and professional athletes follow a tough five months-on, one monthoff routine. One of the best ways to build muscles is to give them a chance to recover and grow, but remember, stay active and eat wisely.

5. Training on the road is not a problem. A major difficulty during the holidays and even at other times of the year,

5

when you're on the road, is a lack of access to a gym. Most hotels have at least some semblance of a fitness center. Many gym chains allow you to take a travel pass and train for free while you're out of town. If not, you can often purchase a day pass for $20-$30.

6. Be creative and spontaneous. If you're on the road and you can't get to the gym, you can still do crunches, lunges and leg lifts for the abs and butt. Try using your own body weight to do push ups and chair

6

dips for chest and tri's. Front and lateral raises for shoulders can be done with objects in your hotel room. Use the stairs when traveling and sightseeing. The holidays are not just about food and drinking, they're also about staying active and having fun!

Tom Bonanti is a certified personal trainer and massage therapist (MA#40288) with his own one on one facility pumpnincgym.com in Ft. Lauderdale. Contact TrainerTomB@aol.com with questions or set up a free consultation today!

Hotspots.LGBT | 77

The Frivolist

By Mikey Rox

6 Reasons to Eat Out This Year For Your Holiday Suppers

1

Spending time with family stuffing your face is grand・ until it isn’t. Ditch the drama this holiday season and eat out for a happier holiday.

It s hard to overeat

I’ve never been one to pile my plate high with turkey and sides – I’m one of those who can’t have his food touch lest you want me to gag while you’re happily masticating – but I have housed an entire sweet potato pie in one sitting because it was first time tasting it – and Oh. My. God. That’s not my norm though. Considering my aversion to neighboring foodstuffs co-mingling, I can fit about three items on my plate, maybe have a second helping of turkey, and call it an afternoon.

It’s hard to overeat at a holiday meal at a nice restaurant, too. Usually there’s a preset menu that include the holiday staples, and when it’s gone it’s gone.

Of course, all bets are off if you’re setting up shop at a holiday buffet. I’ve done that a couple times and required a handcart to carry me out.

3

2

It s something different

If you always spend your holiday dinner at the same house, switch it up this year. Changing a routine every now and again is refreshing, and dining out for Thanksgiving or Christmas is an easy way to do it.

Plenty of chain and local restaurants are open for dinner on those days, either with special seasonal menus or their regular fare.

It s far less expensive if you re the one who usually cooks

I haven’t spent less than $200 on a Thanksgiving meal that I’ve prepared for family and friends in the past. Mains, sides, and their respective (and exhaustive) list of ingredients, plus drinks (soft and hard), ice, and desserts will set you back. Guests usually will bring dishes of their own, but you can never count on that, so it’s best to be prepared. There are a fair amount of leftovers, but that’s just a parting gift I like to offer. Good to have new plastic containers around that guests can take home and never return because you know they’re not going to anyway.

4

Everybody acts like normal people in public hopefully

Racists grandpas, criticizing moms, creepy uncles, and badass cousins can turn docile family dinners into a WWE smack down, but people tend to mind their behavior when seated at a restaurant. Your uppity sister and brother-in-law will probably let their kids run wild, but that’s nothing a sweeping foot can’t solve.

5

There s no cleanup

6

Everybody departs after dinner and you re free at last

Washing a kitchen full of dirty dishes after a holiday meal is a chore, even when you have help. Skip that step and tip the restaurant bussers instead. They deserve a kickback the same as your server, and your kitchen gets to stay fully intact.

Guests linger after a family dinner, but even if you get along with them it can be an annoyance when all you want to do is open your parts, have a fart, and nap on the couch. That dream can come true for you this year. Pay the restaurant bill, say your goodbyes, and go your separate ways until the next family reunion or funeral.

Mikey Rox is an award-winning journalist and LGBT lifestyle expert whose work has been published in more than 100 outlets across the world. He spends his time writing from the beach with his dog Jaxon.

Connect with Mikey on Instagram @mikeyrox.

Miami City Ballet Presents: George Balanchine's

Miami City Ballet's (MCB) reimagined production of George Balanchine's The Nutcracker returns to South Florida stages, featuring enchanting costumes and sets designed by Cuban-American artistic power couple Isabel and Ruben Toledo, paired with Balanchine's glorious choreography and Tchaikovsky's beloved score. All performances feature live music performed live by Opus One Orchestra.

The dazzling production opens at the Adrienne Arsht Center in Miami from December 13–22 and continues at the Kravis Center in West Palm Beach from December 27–29.

“We take great pride in bringing George Balanchine's festive holiday classic to South

Florida audiences for the 29th year, capturing the wonder of childhood with its fantastic score, vibrant costumes and rich holiday tradition,” said Miami City Ballet Artistic Director Lourdes Lopez. “The Nutcracker serves as a gateway to the art form of classical ballet for many audiences, making its annual performance critical to our mission of engaging the community in the arts.”

In 2017, the late Isabel Toledo and her husband Ruben Toledo designed brilliant new costumes and sets exclusively for Miami City Ballet's production of George Balanchine's The Nutcracker. Isabel passed away in August - a great loss to the creative worlds of fashion and art. She is revered as one of the greatest fashion designers of the last two decades.

Photos provided by Miami City Ballet

The Nutcracker

Miami City Ballet would like to take this opportunity to celebrate and remember the life and incredible contribution that Isabel Toledo has made to their company and their audiences.

They are so grateful to have had the opportunity to work with Isabel and will remember her with joy and love each time they perform this work.

Lopes went on to say: “This season, we perform this beautiful ballet in tribute to CubanAmerican designer Isabel Toledo, who was revered all over the world as one of the great fashion designers of the last two decades, and who designed the costumes of our new Nutcracker, with her husband,

Ruben Toledo, designing the sets. As we re lect on the life and work of Isabel, as both a friend and an artist, we are reminded of all the beautiful, tender moments when she and Ruben were in our Miami City Ballet studios and how full of joy she was to see her designs move across the studio and stage as our dancers danced. Isabel was beloved by MCB dancers and staff alike. We were thrilled by her unique and vivid sense of style, her meticulous technique and her deep reservoir of creativity. She was always welcoming, thoughtful and gracious, and she brought a tremendous generosity of spirit to every encounter. We were so very fortunate to have these moments in our hearts and feel privileged to now continue to wear her art on our stages year after year.”

Miami City Ballet is one of the few companies in the country to continuously perform George Balanchine's The Nutcracker.

This holiday favorite features an impressive cast of more than 100 performers, including 70 children from Miami City Ballet School.

Tickets are available now at miamicityballet.org/nutcracker, by phone at 305.929.7010 or 877.929.7010, and in person at 2200 Liberty Ave, Miami Beach FL, 33139.

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Full Solar. $465k. Meadowbrook 2/2 1 mile from beach $175k. Clean OPK Studio. 2/2 Hidden Harbor Condo $1,450/mo. “Broker Joe” Grano, Realtor® 954-931-0031

u FOR SALE - OTHER CANCUN MEXICO CONDO FOR SALE 2BR/2BA

Near downtown, walk to the gym, many stores, and restaurants. Lower your stress levels and costs by 2/3. Curious? Tom 954.980.8388 t_c_long@ hotmail.com

SAN JOSE COSTA RICA - FOR SALE BY OWNER

Beautiful hill-top house in San Jose, Costa Rica, steps away from world famous Colours Oasis Resort.

4 BR, 3.5 baths, 4100 sq.ft., incrediable views, fully furnished and ready to move in. $349,000. For more info go to www.HillTopHouseSanJose.com or call Tracy at 305-891-4959.

u RENTALS - FORT LAUDERDALE 3040 NE 21 AVE FT LAUDERDALE

2 Bedroom apt. Ceramic tile through out, ceiling fans, central A/C , shared laundry on property, off street parking. Close to Coral Ridge Mall, bus line , close to Wilton Manors, No DOGS, cat okay. $1,250.00 monthly. F / L / S to move in. Contact blueboy1st@hotmail.com Bill (954) 226.8315

Mark’s List Marketplace

Meadowbrook Coral Ridge Look Homesites Cypress Harbor Plantation 2/2 Corner 3/2 Ocean Gardens 4/3 Country Club 3/2 Ocean Condo on lake Access Pool 2CG 4/2.5 w/Pool.

Access. 1,310 Impact Glass Full Solar $465k $175k 3,000 sqft. 949k sqft. $449k $359k Rent @ Hidden Harbor 2/2 $1,440/m. Corner. New Appls. Walk to Wilton Drive.

Please call or text for a walk‐through video link to any of my listings.

First Atlantic Realty, Inc. 1881 NE 26th St Suite 212 Wilton Manors, Fl 33305 | Licensed Real Estate Brokerage Hotspots.LGBT | 95

Mark’s List Marketplace u RENTALS - OAKLAND PARK OAKLAND PARK NEAR SCANDALS

2/1 in a tropical gay complex. Tile floors, central air, DW, clothing optional pool w/laundry. $1200./mo.

560 NE 34th Street. OP. F/L/S and no pets.

954-422-2080

1/1 IN OAKLAND PARK. $975. BRIGHT, SPACIOUS “OWNERS UNIT”

Tiles floors. Granite counter-tops. New Hurricane Impact windows. Large walk in closet. Off the street parking for one car per unit. $50 application fee.

Background check. No pets. No smoking.

Call 754-366-7563

u RENTALS - OTHER DOWNTOWN HOLLYWOOD

Lg. 1/1, Condo, 1st Floor, private parking, 4 blocks to entertainment, arts, food etc. - Less than 10 minutes to the beach. $1100./mo., CAN SPREAD OUT F/L/S Contact Joe AT 954-656-7608 or TEXT/ MSG with “apartment”

u RENTALS - WILTON MANORS DUPLEX FOR RENT WILTON MANORS

2 bed / 1 bath, renovated. Nice private fenced yard, driveway ½ mile to The drive, Florida room 1650.00 call- 954-804-6764

WALK TO WILTON DR. STUDIO/EFFICIENCY

Private entrance, nice studio/efficiency. 1/2 Block to Wilton Drive. Refrigerator, microwave, electric & water included. $895./month plus 1 month security.

Call 313-460-3881

u ROOMMATES OAKLAND PARK ROOM FOR RENT

Oakland Park near I-95 and 21st Ave. Washer/ dryer off street parking. Kitchen use and pool.

No drugs or drunks. Must have ID and verifyable employment & $5. Background check. Central a/c $155 per week. 3 weeks security. Text only 954-465-4859

ADVERTISE IN MARKS LIST MARKETPLACE

Call Jim at 954-928-1862 Ext. 14 or Email Jim@HotSpotsMedia.com

96 | Hotspots.LGBT

u COUNSELING METH PROBLEM??

www.SouthFloridaCMA.org

u LICENSED MASSAGE MASSAGE BY MARK

Great massage, great price. 90 minute massage clients $45./therapeutic massage. In the Fort Lauderdale area. In or out. 954-463-6791, 954-895-2265, no texting please.

MASSAGE/SKIN CARE/WAXING/MANSCAPING

In & out travel to resorts or homes. Private studio located at Hollywood Blvd. & 95. Massage/Facials/ Waxing www.massagemp.com 305-331-1010 Miguel MA0025781

Mark’s List Marketplace AWESOME MASSAGE BY JIM

Offering Swedish, Lomi Lomi, Sports and Deep Tissue Massage for Men at Affordable Rates in a comfortable and Private Massage studio located in Wilton Manors on NE 26th Street, Same Day appointments can mostly be accommodated.

Great New Specials Available call for details. Gift Certificates Available. Call Jim at 954-600-5843 or visit my website at www.massagebyjim.com License MM22293. Plenty of Free Parking

u BODY CONTOURING

u REFLEXOLOGY

u HAIR REMOVAL

Mark’s List Marketplace LET ME SHAVE YOU

Body shaving and trimming in the comfort of your own home. Friendly, no attitude, Broward only. $50.00 per session 9AM-9PM, call Michael at 754-222-6623

HAIR REMOVAL & MORE!

Waxing, facials, trimming, shaving and body scrubs at its best. Very friendly and relaxing experience. Visit me today. For appointment please call 954-649-9905.

WWW.BRAZILLIANTOUCH.COM

u PERSONAL TRAINING

ADVERTISE IN MARKS LIST MARKETPLACE

Call Jim at 954-928-1862 Ext. 14 or Email Jim@HotSpotsMedia.com

u GYM

u CLEANING SERVICES PANE IN THE GLASS

WINDOW CLEANING, PRESSURE CLEANING, GUTTER CLEANING AND WINDOW TINT REMOVAL. CALL SCOTT 954-608-7625 CELL

***CLEAN IT RITE*** THE BEST CLEANING FOR YOUR BUCK!

1BD $60, 2BD $70, 3BD $80. Excellent rates and references. 10 years in the business. Serving Broward, North Miami and South Palm Beach. Also pet sitting and window cleaning avail. Call Manny at 954-371-8920

BRAZILIAN HOME AND OFFICE CLEANING

Let the Brazilian Man do it. Your Home or Office Cleaning. In business since 1998. 1BD/$50 and Up, 2BD/$60 and Up. Weekly, bi-weekly. Free quote available. Call or Text 954-861-7617

GENTLEMAN AT YOUR SERVICES

ADVERTISE IN MARKS LIST MARKETPLACE

Call Jim at 954-928-1862 Ext. 14 or Email Jim@HotSpotsMedia.com

Thank you for taking the time to read our ad. We are very responsible company looking to help you with anything and everything from cleaning, shopping, preparing meals and laundry. You name it we do it no job to big or small. If we can be of service to you please call us at 508-353-5061, we are happy to meet with you and discuss your needs and answer any questions that you may have. We Look Forward To Hearing From You!!!

Mark’s List Marketplace HARRY’S ELECTRIC - RESIDENTIAL & COMMERCIAL

Additions, renovations, service upgrades, breaker panels, FPL undergrounds, code violations, A/C wiring, ceiling fans, recessed, security & landscaping, lighting, pools, pumps, Jacuzzis, water heaters, FREE PHONE ESTIMATES 954522-3357 Lic & Ins. www.harryelectrician.com

RTS ELECTRIC - 24 HOUR SERVICE

Quality work at a reasonable price. Licensed & Insured #98-CME-1807-X. Contact 954-257-9509.

Also, all size generator service and installation.

ADVERTISE IN MARKS LIST MARKETPLACE

Call Jim at 954-928-1862 Ext. 14 or Email Jim@HotSpotsMedia.com

u HANDYMAN ONE-STOP SHOPPING AND ASSOCIATES HANDYMAN/REMODELING AND MORE WITH OVER 30 YEARS EXPERIENCE IN ALL PHASES OF...

Home improvements, additions, electrical, plumbing, painting, kitchen, baths, wood flooring / trim, TV mounting, Former owner of a NY remodeling co. as well as a hands on worker, because I demand perfection in all I do. Please call Mitch for prompt honest and dependable service. Lic. CGC1514441 and insured. 954-253-4650

KENNY & JAY REPAIRS AND MAINTENANCE

u COMPUTERS **OPTIMA** COMPUTER REPAIR 954-817-3883

IN-HOME SERVICE. Proudly serving our community for over 20 years. *Get the BEST performance, protection & value from your computer investment. *A+ Hardware & OS certified. *Friendly, professional, RELIABLE service. Reasonable rates. Call: Mike 954-817-3883

HELPMEERIC.COM ! TECH SUPPORT

Your Personal Tech Assistant. BEST RATES in the tri-county area. Specializing in Android & iPhones.

PC/Mac-Training, Installation, Clean-up & Repairs.

Friendly, In-Home Srvc. Call/Txt 954-903-4383.

u ELECTRICAL

Bathroom, kitchen, microwave, plumbing and electric, outlets, switches, breakers. Time clocks, Upgrade breaker box, repair or replace sprinkler & pool motors, replace & remove hot water tanks & install tankless water heaters. Vanity. sinks, faucets, dishwasher & garbage disposals. K&J 954-260-9940 BEST PRICES IN TOWN! 32 Years Experience.

CAPTAIN’S REPAIR & MAINTENANCE

Carpentry - Plumbing - Electrical 20 years experience in Ft Lauderdale. Projects done on time and clean. Call 786.348.3598

u LAWN MAINTENANCE/IRRIGATION IRRIGATION SYSTEM REPAIR AND MAINTENANCE

30 Years experience, excellent work, referrals upon request. Call Roberto at 954-383-8980

Mark’s List Marketplace LAWN MAINTENANCE - LANDSCAPE

Make your home a showplace. INTEGRITY LANDSCAPE SERVICES, LLC specializes in property clean up, tree and shrub pruning, sodding and landscape design & installation.

We also do lawn maintenance. Call Mike 561633-7419 or 954-812-5434 our website at www. integrityLandscapingService.com

u PLUMBING

TAX PREPARATION HAROLD J BLOTCHER, EA

Tax Preparation and Resolution for Individuals and Small Business. Help With Same Sex Marriage Issues and IRS Issues. Call 781-363-5519 or 561-429-3592 or visit our website at www.haroldjblotchertaxes.com

u AIR CONDITIONING *** EXPERT AIR ADVICE *** ** AIR CONDITIONING REPAIRS **

Cooling is what we do best. FPL rebates, insured, CACO 36862. FREE estimates on replacements. $95 tune up, Call 954-764-1990

CENTRAL AIR CONDITIONING

Repairs, u installations, indoor air quality. Residential/ Commercial. Proudly serving the tri-county area.

Quality and experience. Free service calls for all A/C makes and models. Lic/Ins CMC1249558 Call 954-274-8287 for your free estimate. **10% off your first repair**

u

ADVERTISE IN MARKS LIST MARKETPLACE Call Jim at 954-928-1862 Ext. 14 or Email Jim@HotSpotsMedia.com

Mark’s List Marketplace u PHOTOGRAPHY

u APPLIANCE REPAIR

HOT ADVICE By Andreus Quinones

FEM AND DAINTY Dear Andreus, I have been in a relationship for 6 years.

Over a year ago, I wanted to leave because I am not happy anymore. We have no communication, our sex life is almost nonexistent, and we barely spend time together even though we live together. Every time I bring the subject up, he sidetracks me with some elaborate explanation as to why I should stay. How do I get out of this? Please help!

Sincerely, Jacob M. Dear Jacob, Having been in a similar situation, I can tell you that the only way to leave, is just do it. If you feel that the relationship is no longer serving a purpose and/or you are not happy then that is probably your best course of action. But only make that decision if you truly feel that you have exhausted every effort to salvage your relationship to ensure that you don't have any regrets later. I find it best to part on the best possible terms, because the longer you drag it out, the greater chance of emotions such as resentment building up and then things get ugly. Take the necessary steps, have the talk, and stick to your guns. I am wishing the very best for you!

102 | Hotspots.LGBT

Dear Andreus, My wife wants me to be more fem. In our relationship she has always been daintier and into the heels and dresses. I am more into slacks, little or no make-up and just a more relaxed look. I have always been that way, but she feels that I need to soften my look.

Honestly, it makes me uncomfortable because it is not me, or my personality.

She keeps bringing it up, and it makes me feel like I don't look good enough.

What should I do?

Sincerely, Cara S. Dear Cara, You must be true to yourself. Maybe there are minor tweaks that you two can come to an agreement on, but you certainly should not feel the pressure to completely change for anyone if you don't feel comfortable with it. Don't be afraid to try new things, but not to the point where you no longer feel like you. Another route could be to just to “play� dress-up every now and then. That way she gets to see you another way, but you can go right back to yourself in an instant. Have some fun with it!!

3050 N. FEDERAL HWY, FT. LAUDERDALE, FL 33306 SE CORNER OF OAKLAND PARK BLVD & N. FEDERAL HWY 954.356.2774 • INFO@YOURPATIOSTORE.COM