Hotspots! December 23, 2021 (Issue 3626)

36th Year

Hotspots magazine is published alternate Thursdays (26 issues/year) by WMEG Inc.

Jeff Sterling Chief Executive Officer Scott Holland VP - Operations/Associate Publisher ADMINISTRATION VP - Development | Jamie Forsythe Business Manager | Alyson omas Administrative Assistant | Cedric Roberson DIGITAL & TV VP - TV & Digital | Darren Loli Digital Manager | Troy Maillis Special Digital Projects | Austin Rahn Special Projects/Editor | Jameer Baptiste ART & DESIGN Art Director | Frank Mendez Designer | Maria Espinal ADVERTISING Account Executives Anthony Verrico — (754) 333-0886 Nicole Covar — (754) 333-0889 NATIONAL ADVERTISING Rivendell Media, 212-242-6863

HOW TO REACH US MAIN OFFICE The Sterling Building 2435 N Dixie Hwy., Wilton Manors, Florida 33305 Phone (754)200-2979 CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING Call (754) 200-2979 x 625 or e-mail Classifieds@HotspotsMedia.com DISPLAY ADVERTISING Call (754) 200-2979 x 605 or e-mail Ads@HotspotsMedia.com

WHO WE ARE

WMEG Inc., is a Community Marketing and Events organization incorporating Hotspots magazine and Happening Out Television Network.

Our mission as a 501 (c)(3) nonprofit is to promote South Florida, and especially Wilton Manors,as a welcoming LGBTQ+ destination through marketing and events. WMEG produces about 50 events a year, including the annual Stonewall Pride Parade and Festival in Wilton Manors. Other events include Art Walk on Wilton Drive and Vibes On The Drive. Visit WMEG.org for more info.

WMEG also manages the Sculpture Walk project which is responsible for the installation of sculptures in public spaces in Wilton Manors.

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Chris Azzopardi | Tom Bonanti Maria Espinal | S. Elfman Mike Jeknavorian | Andreus Quinones CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS J.R. Davis | Dale Stine | Dennis Dean CELEBRITY HOST Shawn Palacious (“Kitty Meow”) LOGISTICS J.R. Davis Copyright 2021, WMEG Inc. All rights reserved.

Reproduction in whole or in part by any means without written permission by the Publisher is prohibited.

Publication of the name or photograph or any person, living or dead, is not to be construed as any indication of the sexual orientation of such persons or organizations.

Watch Queer News Tonight streaming live Monday through Thursdays at 7 p.m. at HappeningOut.com

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OUR AUDIENCE Hotspots magazine is available at more than 300 locations from West Palm Beach to Key West and reaches an audience exceeding 300,000 monthly across our print, TV and digital network.

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Issue 26 - Dec. 23, 2021 - Jan.6, 2021

O N T H E INSIDE

Cover Cover Models: Jhoan Acevedo @jhoanmanuelth

Justin Younts @justinyounts Cover photographed by: Dennis Dean DennisDean.com @DennisDeanImages

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Feature: Hairspray Comes to the Arsht Center | Pix: Hotspots & Happening Out’s Holiday & Anniversary Celebrations! | Feature: Kwanzaa is Near | Deep Inside Hollywood Pix: Holiday Spectacular | Feature: Josie Totah Leads the Trans Charge on TV Out with Scott / What’s Hot | Scott Holland’s Guide to Events Pix: MDGLCC • Pix: Holiday Parties We Were Invited to: thePUB, Genesis, The Eagle and 321 Top 10 • Hotspots Hotties• Pix: Hunters • Hot Places • Hot Eats • Hot Bodies • Hot Advice

MARKETPLACE IN ON PAGE 115

OUT WITH SCOTT

By Scott Holland

are the #1 gay Media in Florida and we thank the community for putting us there (check out the 4 pages of pics from the event in this issue) On Thursday, December 9, Hunters presented their annual Glad To Give Gala, which this year was benefitting Flockfest. As usual, it was a fab event thanks to Mark and his team!

On Saturday, December 11, The Manor Complex celebrated their 12th Anniversary with a “Big Top/Circus” which starred the sounds of Producer/DJ/Girl from Ipanema, Ana Paula in the ballroom. In the Latin Room, Noche Latina presented RuPaul's Drag Race All Stars Serena ChaCha, Oscar Novva, Production, DJ Duniel and sexy Go-Go papi's. It was a fabulous anniversary celebration.

Holiday Spectacular

Hunters

On Monday, December 6, the Muse in association with Jonathan Hawkins presented the WMBA's Holiday Spectacular at Richardson Park. The entertainment was top notch and there was over 225 people in attendance (the largest crowd ever). This was my first time at this event, and I was very impressed!

On Wednesday, December 8, Hotspots and happening Out TV celebrated our Anniversaries (36 for HS and 3 for HOUT) along with a Holiday Celebration at the Sunshine Studios. We were honored with the amount of people that showed up. We

Also that night the Seminole Hard Rock Winterfest Boat Parade celebrated its 50th anniversary with the theme, “50 Years of Hard Rockin' Fun.” On Sunday, December

Compass

thePUB

Bona’s

12, Hamburger Mary's Wilton Manors presented Bingo Night to support Art Walk Wilton Manors, hosted by Karla Croqueta. This was so much fun!

Also, on Sunday Compass presented the 19th Cocktails for Compass, their annual signature fundraiser and a celebration of the community's investment at Club Colette. This year their special guest of honor was, The Honorable Rufus Gifford, former US Ambassador to Denmark, and most recently President Biden's nominee for Chief of Protocol. The evening featured an inspiring retrospective of one of Compass's most fervent supporters, the late fashion designer Alfred Fiandaca.

Congrats to Compass on another

Genesis

successful fundraiser.

That same day Bona Italian Restaurant celebrated their 5th year under the stewardship of Glen Weinzimer and Mark Byrd. They celebrated by having its first Brunch which starred Maryel Epps.

Eagle

On Tuesday, December 14, The Eagle Wilton Manors and 321 both had their Holiday parties and on Wednesday the Pub celebrated. We want to thank them all for inviting us.

On Thursday, December 16, there were a few events around town. The Pride 321 Center featured their monthly Founders Circle event; Genesis Health Institute had their annual Holiday event. This year featuring a fabulous fashion show with sexy models; and the MDGLCC presented their annual HoliGay Celebration and Toy Drive.

MDGLCC’s Holigay

WHAT’S HOT WHO•WHAT•WHEN•WHERE

By Scott Holland

DEC 23 - JAN 05

F9

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 23 The Raymond F. Kravis Center for the Performing Arts presents Rudolph The RedNosed Reindeer: The Musical at 1 and 7pm.

The beloved TV classic Rudolph The RedNosed Reindeer soars off the screen and onto the stage this holiday season. See all of your favorite characters as they come to life in Rudolph The Red-Nosed Reindeer: The Musical. It's an adventure that teaches us that what makes you different can be what makes you special. Tickets start at $21 at Kravis.org SATURDAY, DECEMBER 25 The Pub presents the Royals show starring the entire Pub court at 6pm. The at 8pm they feature Electra at 8pm. Then at 10pm they feature Flashback to the 70's, 80's and 90's at 10pm.

MONDAY, DECEMBER 27 The Raymond F. Kravis Center for the Performing Arts presents Forbidden

Broadway: The Next Generation from today through December 31. Forbidden Broadway returns with hilarious new musical spoofs of Moulin Rouge, the all-Yiddish Fiddler on the Roof, Hadestown, this season's dark Oklahoma! revival, along with Dear Evan Hansen, Tootsie, Beetlejuice, Frozen, and a whole new generation of Broadway stars. Plus exciting impersonations of Bette Midler, Andre de Shields, Bernadette Peters, Lin-Manuel Miranda, plus some classic laughs from The Lion King, Phantom, Les Miz, and more.

Tickets start at $43.50.

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 31 – NYE (IN ALPHABETICAL ORDER) Alibi/Monkey Bar says Goodbye 2021 with indoor/outdoor entertainment. The outdoor stage opens at 7pm and the inside festivities kicks off at 9pm. They will feature outrageous shows, music, bars, a balloon drop at midnight and much more. The night will star DJ's Alex Infiniti, Daddy and Maikel.

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

Hamburger Marys

Eagle They have many Drink packages available as well as 8 premium VIP tables. For more information call them at 954-565-2526.

Eagle Wilton Manors presents DJ's Daniel Kristopherre and Dan Deleon. Doors open at 8pm and tickets are $20 in advance and $25 at the door. This admission includes party favors, champagne toast at midnight, and access to two stages of entertainment.

They are also featuring a VIP Package of $125 which includes open bar from 9pm to midnight, catered food, admission to all areas, all entertainment, no waiting in line and a special VIP bar. In addition to al of this they will feature a free party in the rear with DJ Morgan, two stages with outdoor tent, patio hi top tables, a giant LED wall for midnight countdown.

Hamburger Marys presents Dining with the Diva's last drag show of 2021 hosted by CC

Glitzer with Coco Lords and Christina Vixen with showtimes at 8pm and 10:30pm. Then at 10pm till close they feature a $40 open bar with a complimentary champagne toast at midnight and the NYE countdown with Jasmine Pryce Lords, the Times Square ball drop suimulcast and beats by DJ Frank-O. Johnsons opens their doors at 7pm and tix are $65 before Dec 30 and $75 thereafter.

Contact the club at 954-908-1272 for details.

Leboy presents Adult Male star Jesse stone tonight and all weekend (Saturday and Sunday).

Lips presents the Glitz and Glam Ball hosted by Amanda Austin with dinner, drag shows and dancing. The night will feature a 3-course prix fixe dinner which is $45 for the early seating and $85 for the late

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

Johnsons

Lips seating. To reserve call 954-567-0987.

R House Wynwood proudly resents their party starring Ru Paul's Drag Race and Drag Race All stars superstar Latrice Royale and Athena Dion. The night will also star Gadfri, Morphine Love, Kat Wilderness and music

by DJ MoJody. They are featuring a general admission with seating at 8:30pm or 9pm that features a 4-course prix-fixe dinner menu with welcome bubbles and a midnight toast for $90. They are also featuring VIP package with an 8pm entry that includes a meet and greet with Latrice, the 4-course prix-fixe dinner menu, a bottle of Perrier Jouet and a R House Fan for $200.

For more info or to purchase your tickets for

LeBoy

R House NYE call 305-576-0201or go to: Rhousewynwood.com.

The Manor presents “Olympus: Home of the Gods” with lavish décor and production. The night will star DJ Alex Acosta and a performance by X Factor And Billboard Diva Janice Robinson. The night will also feature performances by TP Lords, Erika Norell, Sasha Lords and Calypso Monroe. General Admission is $20 before Dec 25; $25 from Dec 25 to Dec 30. 18-20 admission is $30.

They also feature a VIP admission ($95 until Dec 25 and $110 from Dec 25-30) which includes the cover and an open bar all night in the exclusive furnished VIP lounge.

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

Manor

thePUB

Twist Purchase tickets at: manornye2022.eventbrite.com The Pub celebrates with a themed party entitled Masquerade, which will be hosted by Velvet LeNore and Kimberly Venom. The event will feature drag shows, guest performers, giveaways, champagne toast at midnight, music and more.

Twist Presents a big celebration starring DJ Pam Ann from 10pm to 1am followed by DJ Sushiman from 1am to 5am, as well as a champagne toast at midnight. They advise everyone to arrive early to avoid the line and as always, no cover.

SATURDAY, JANUARY 1 The Manor presents “Uno” starring two superstar DJ's back-to-back: Grammy Nominated Abel and festival superstar Jackinsky. Doors open at 11pm and admission is only $10 before 1am and $20 after 1am.

Eagle Wilton Manors presents DJ Alex Cabot. Doors open at 8pm with a $15 cover.

SUNDAY, JANUARY 2 Le Boy presents superstar DJ Chi Chi Larue spinning and don't forget tonight is the last night with adult male star Jesse Stone.

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

“Hairspray” Comes to the Arsht Center

Dec. 28-Jan. 2

By Scott Holland

"Hairspray," Broadway's Tony Awardwinning musical comedy phenomenon, will be presented at the Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts of Miami-Dade County from December 28, 2021 – January 2, 2022. The new touring production, helmed by Jack O'Brien and Jerry Mitchell,

will star Andrew Levitt aka Nina West (from "RuPaul's Drag Race") as Edna Turnblad, Niki Metcalf as Tracy Turnblad and Toneisha Harris (from NBC's "The Voice") as Motormouth Maybelle with Billy Dawson as Corny Collins, Will Savarese as Link Larkin, Emery Henderson as Penny Pingleton, Brandon G. Stalling as Seaweed J. Stubbs, Kaelee Albritton as Amber Von Tussle and Addison Garner as Velma Von Tussle.

"Hairspray" kicks off the anticipated 15th anniversary season of Broadway in Miami.

The new Broadway in Miami season is presented by Florida Theatrical Association with presenting sponsor Bank of America in association with the Adrienne Arsht Center along with support from Nicklaus Children's Hospital.

Christopher Swan plays Wilbur Turnblad and Kaléa Leverette plays Little Inez with Caroline Daye Attayek, Kelly Barberito, Helene Britany, Jamonté Bruten, Tanner Callicutt, Ryahn Evers, Michael Corey Hassel, Kaleb Jenkins, Greg Kalafatas,

Andrew Levitt

Gabriel Kearns, Caira Asanté Lakota, Stevie LeWarne, Jr., Brendan Morris, Faith Northcutt, Adam Blake Raque, Renée Reid, Sydney Simone, Christopher Swan, Gabriyel Thomas, George Vickers V, Mea Wilkerson and Emmanuelle Zeesman as members of the ensemble.

"Hairspray" is the story of 16-year-old Tracy Turnblad in 1960's Baltimore as she sets out to dance her way onto TV's most popular show. Can a girl with big dreams (and even bigger hair) change the world?

Featuring the beloved score of hit songs including "Welcome to the 60's," "Good Morning Baltimore," and "You Can't Stop the Beat," HAIRSPRAY is "fresh, winning, and deliriously tuneful!" (The New York Times).

It was a pleasure to, once again, sit down with Andrew Levitt aka Nina West, for this exclusive Hotspots interview: At what age did you begin performing?

I think I started performing when I was 8 years old, and it was for a church nativity production. We would also do our own

photo by Marc J. Franklin

“I got a full introduction to drag when I was 18 years old and in college and I went to a gay bar. When I saw my first drag queen, I was terrified, and I didn't understand it.” family Christmas shows.

What was your first paid gig?

It might have been in drag, and it was $25 to do a 3 number guest spot for a show that lasted 5 hours. At the time, I was so excited to get paid for something I loved.

When did Drag come into the picture?

I got a full introduction to drag when I was 18 years old and in college and I went to a gay bar. When I saw my first drag queen, I was terrified, and I didn't understand it.

Then I was introduced to doing drag for our senior drag show in college for our LGBTQ student organization. The first song I ever did was Linda Eder's Man of La Mancha. I thought I was fabulous but I am sure it was awful.

When did you know performing would be your career?

I knew early on; actually, I have always known. I would die if I could not entertain!

Other than this one, what has been your favorite role so far?

I love playing Nina as she is a character of my own creation. She has opened the door

HotspotsMagazine.com | 29

to everything for me.

What's your fantasy role (a role you haven't played but want to)?

Madame Morrible from Wicked would be amazing; King George would be so fun, and honestly if there is a challenge, I am up to it.

I would also like to do Dirty Rotten Scoundrels.

What did you do/accomplish during the pandemic?

It was really hard (for everybody) especially for performers and we had to reconstruct our mental space get used to being home all the time. For me it was busy, because as soon as I recognized we were going to be home for a long time I did a lot of charity work, wrote and released new music, did a Disney partnership with Disney Plus and worked with Nickelodeon and Blues Clues. I also wrote a children's television show that we are trying to sell along with many projects Iam not allowed to talk about. I worked a lot on myself as well. Honestly, I was working all the time.

Describe yourself in 3 words?

Thoughtful, joyful, and kind.

Is there something about you we don't know?

I think that I am an open book, but my favorite food is Pizza, no matter how it comes. I am a foodie!

What should our readers expect from this touring company of "Hairspray"?

They should expect to experience JOY. It's

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the one thing I got out of this show. It was hard for me to sign the one-year contract with "Hairspray," as I was concerned how I was going to do the same thing for a year. I am so used to doing different things every day as Nina. The fact that I got to see the audience reaction every single night keeps me excited about doing the show! It is a celebration of who we are as a country. It's the perfect joyful medicine that we all need right now.

"Hairspray" was a smash hit when it transferred to Broadway, winning eight 2003 Tony Awards including Best Musical, and became the longestrunning musical to play the Neil Simon Theater, running 2,642 performances.

For more information, please visit hairspraytour.com.

The Arsht Center remains deeply committed to the health and peace of mind of our guests, artists and staff.

Based on guidance from national and local health officials, masks and proof of a recent negative COVID-19 test are required. Guests may volunteer proof of vaccination in lieu of a negative test.

Tickets to "Hairspray" are $35, $50, $70, $90, $120 and $150* and may be purchased now at the Adrienne Arsht Center box office by calling (305) 9496722, or online at arshcenter.org.

HotspotsMagazine.com | 41

Photos by Cedric Roberson

Some of the Happening TV Staff and Anchors David, Kitty, Johnathan, Misty. Al. Fay and Darren.

The beautiful Schaffer Z in Pink surrounded by her friends.

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Some of the sexy Latinos Salud boys who manned their silent auction.

Manny Simone was tickling the ivories all night entertaining all of us.

Alan Beck, owner of Fun Travel Guides surrounded by Guy Marshall and Ron Spann.

Alyson Thomas (Accountant at Hotspots) and Dale Stine (photographer to the stars).

Our wonderful bartenders Lidia and Joe.

Carlos Marrero and Kitty Meow, hosts and great friends.

Darren Lolli (owner of Happening Out TV) with John (Unity Coalition) Tony Lima (Executive Director of Sunserve) and Fay Albernas (Fay What Show).

Anthony Verrico (Hotspots Senior account executive), Michael Abetta (Marty Kilder) and Rich Loprimo (retired Hotspots account executive).

Robert Hadley (WMEG and Broward House) and his other half Carvell.

Comissioner Chris Caputo from the City of Wilton Manors and friends.

The Red Carpet with Jose Posa as Joan Rivers

Photos by Cendric Roberson

HotspotsMagazine.com | 45

By Scott Holland

Actor/Comedian Tim Allen

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Honing his talents as a stand-up comic throughout the '80s, standup comedy was the perfect lead-in to Allen’s highly successful ABC television series "Home Improvement" where he garnered a Golden Globe Award, an Emmy nomination, and the People's Choice Award for eight years in a row. Allen is also the star of the hit sitcom "Last Man Standing" for nine seasons. Thursday, January 6; Seminole Hardrock Hotel and Casino Hollywood; 8pm; Seminolehardrockhollywood.com +++++++++++++++++

DANCE– Shen Yun

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Broadway – Hairspray

Join 16-year-old Tracy Turnblad in 1960s Baltimore as she sets out to dance her way onto TV's most popular show. Can a girl with big dreams (and even bigger hair) change the world featuring the beloved score of hit songs including "Welcome to the 60's," "Good Morning Baltimore" and "You Can't Stop the Beat."

Tuesday, December 28 - Sunday, January 2; Arsht Center for the Performing Arts; Arshtcenter.org

Shen Yun invites you to travel back to the magical world of ancient China. Experience a lost culture through the incredible art of classical Chinese dance, and see legends come to life. Shen Yun makes this possible by pushing the boundaries of the performing arts, with a unique blend of stunning costuming, high-tech backdrops, and an orchestra like no other. Tues-Thurs, December 28-30: Broward Center for the Performing Arts; Browardcenter.org and then Tues-Sun, January 4-9; Arsht Center for the Performing Arts; ArshtCenter.org +++++++++++++++++

Housewife – a Very Countess Christmas

Luann de Lesseps (a.k.a. Countess Luann) is a reality television star (An original cast member of Bravo's hit TV show The Real Housewives of New York), author, actress, singer and Mother. In recent years Luann has become famous for her cabaret shows.

Luann is presently working on a new single to add to her global dance hits "Money Can't Buy You Class," "Chic C'est La Vie," and "Girl Code." Sunday, December 26, The Parker; 8pm; Parkerplayhouse.com +++++++++++++++++

Cirque Dreams Holidaze

They light up the stage in this awe-inspiring and eye-popping family holiday spectacular. This annual tradition wraps a whimsical, Broadway-style musical infused with contemporary circus artistry into the ultimate holiday gift for the entire family!

Sunday and Monday, December 26 & 27; Broward Center for the Performing Arts; BrowardCenter.org

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Luann de Lesseps

Holidaze

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Broadway – Summer: The Donna Summer Musical

She was a girl from Boston with a voice from heaven, but what the world didn't know was how Donna Summer risked it all to break through barriers, becoming the icon of an era and the inspiration for every music diva who followed. With a score featuring more than 20 of Summer's classic hits including Love to Love You Baby, Bad Girls and Hot Stuff, this electric experience is a moving tribute to the voice of a generation. • Wed – Sun, January 5-9; Kravis Center for the Performing Arts; Kravis.org +++++++++++++++++ Jim Gaffigan is a three-time Grammy nominated comedian, actor, writer, producer, two-time New York Times best-selling author, Emmy winning top touring performer, and multi-platinum-selling father of five. He is known around the world for his unique brand of humor, which largely revolves around his observations on life.

Tuesday, December 28; Seminole Hardrock Hotel and Casino Hollywood; 8pm; Seminolehardrockhollywood.com Mon-Fri December 27-31; Kravis Center for the Performing Arts; Kravis.org +++++++++++++++++

Forbidden Broadway

This New York Staple returns with hilarious new musical spoofs of Moulin Rouge, the all-Yiddish Fiddler On The Roof, Hadestown, this season's dark Oklahoma! revival, along with Dear Evan Hansen, Tootsie, Beetlejuice, Frozen, and a whole new generation of Broadway stars. Plus exciting impersonations of Bette Midler, Andre de Shields, Bernadette Peters, Lin-Manuel Miranda, plus some classic laughs from The Lion King, Phantom, Les Miz and more. Mon-Fri December 27-31; Kravis Center for the Performing Arts; Kravis.org +++++++++++++++++

Comedian – Aries Spears

Aries Spears’ quick wit, charisma and ferociously aggressive style of comedy have earned him critical acclaim, high accolades, and above all, a busy schedule. From being a regular on Fox's Mad TV, starring in feature films, appearing on a number of national talk shows, and continually touring the country with his stand-up, Aries's talents are becoming recognized and appreciated throughout the entertainment industry. December 25 & 26, Dania Improv; Daniaimprov.com; December 30 – Jan 2, Miami Improv; Miamiimprov.com; Tickets are $25-$35.

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Comedian - Jim Gaffigan: The Fun Tour!

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Holidays and New Year's

Almost every bar/restaurant/location has some party where you can celebrate, so we wish everyone a Happy Holiday Season. Please be safe, and don't drink and drive.

Here's to 2022!

By Jameer Baptiste

It's the holiday season and each of them count. From a Merry Christmas to a Happy Hanukkah, we can't leave any of them out.

So, when it comes to spreading the holiday cheer it's important to be clear that Kwanzaa is also here. That's why I would like (for you to hear all about Kwanzaa this year) to spend some time this year to tell you all about the Kwanzaa cheer.

The African American holiday is less known than its seasonal counterparts Christmas and Hanukkah. However, that doesn't mean it's any less significant for the culture that it represents. Just like our other cherished holiday celebrations, Kwanzaa is rooted in history and tradition. Although started in just 1966, the American Holiday represents a rich history of community, resilience, and love.

The 7-day seasonal holiday that starts on December 26th and ends on January 1st, is the brainchild of an American professor named Maulana Ndabezitha Karenga. Born in Parsonsburg, Maryland in the 40s, it wasn't until the Africana Studies professors

was in Los Angeles during the 1960s that he created the honored holiday of Kwanzaa. He birthed the idea in response to the racial tensions of the time.

More specifically, in response to the Watts riots, a racially charged issue in the surrounding areas of Los Angeles stemming from a drunk driving stop that ended in chaos. The story has it that 6-days of civil unrest ensued after allegations swarmed around town of police brutality against a 21-year-old black male driver, his mother and a possible pregnant woman at the scene who was kicked by an officer when the drunk driver and his mother resisted arrest.

It was after that incident that Activist Karenga believed a holiday was specifically needed for the black community. A holiday in which they could celebrate the season with traditions belonging to their African heritage, a removal from any holiday societal assimilation at the time. The conceived Black American holiday has roots in African harvest festival traditions. In

the words of Professor Karenga, the name Kwanzaa comes from the Swahili phrase matunda ya kwanza, which means first fruits.

The 7-days of Kwanzaa are marked with the lighting of a new candle placed on a Kinara (candle holder). Each day has a meaning and are representative of the 7 principles of Kwanzaa:

Umoja (Unity): To strive for and to maintain unity in the family, community, nation, and race.

Kujichagulia (Self-Determination): To define and name ourselves, as well as to create and speak for ourselves.

Ujima (Collective Work and Responsibility): To build and maintain our community together and make our brothers' and sisters' problems our problems and to solve them together.

Ujamaa (Cooperative economics): To build and maintain our own stores, shops, and other businesses and to profit from them together.

Nia (Purpose): To make our collective vocation the building and developing of our community in order to restore our people to their traditional greatness.

Kuumba (Creativity): To do always as much as we can, in the way we can, in order to leave our community more beautiful and beneficial than we inherited it.

Imani (Faith): To believe with all our hearts in our people, our parents, our teachers, our leaders, and the righteousness and victory of our struggle.

“The story has it that 6-days of civil unrest ensued after allegations swarmed around town of police brutality against a 21-year-old black male driver...”

Originally, thought to be a holiday celebrated in place of Christmas, Kwanzaa grew to become a holiday that can be celebrated along with other seasonal holidays as Author Karenga mentioned in his 1997 book Kwanzaa: A Celebration of Family, Community, and Culture.

Now, celebrated throughout the United States and abroad Kwanzaa's universal message is one of harmony, reflection, connection, love, affirmations, peace, and celebration -- sentiments that can be adopted by all walks of life.

Karenga, center, with wife Tiamoyo at left, celebrating Kwanzaa at the Rochester Institute of Technology on December 12, 2003.

Photo by Wikipedia.

HotspotsMagazine.com | 59

HOTSPOTS

Hotties

Meet Cover Models

Jhoan

Justin Jhoan Photos By Sylvester Q and Luis Aponte

Justin Photos by Dennis Dean Interview by Scott Holland Jhoan Manuel Acevedo is 38, is Colombian/American and was born under the sign of Scorpio.

What City do you live in?

Fort Lauderdale Are You Single or married?

I recently started dating someone.

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How did you meet?

We met at Drynk bar What do you do for a living?

I am an Actor and I do work for Telemundo and music videos and TV Commercials. I am in J Lo's and Enrique Iglesias new music videos.

What do you do for fun?

I love to travel, go to the beach, and going out with friends What does the future hold for you?

I want to be in Hollywood.

To find out more about Jhoan follow him on Instagram/@jhoanmanuelth Justin Younts is 30, is American and was born under the sign of Aries.

What city you live in?

I live between Charlotte and North Carolina. I was down in South Florida as Ronnie Larson brought me down to work in Sauna.

Are you Single or married?

Single What do you do for a living?

I am an Actor/Model/Singer/influencer. I also do a podcast. I trained in NYC at the neighborhood playhouse, and Lee Strasberg theater and film institute. I also work with an acting coach named Vincent Bagnall twice a week. Before Sauna I finished a Midsummers Nights Dream where I played Demetrius. Before that I was in The Picture of Dorian Gray, and I played Dorian Gray.

Also, While I was in Sauna, Matt Colonga saw me and asked me to dance at Johnsons, which I did for a little bit.

What do you do for fun?

I love to work out. I also love to read, and I read 52 books a year. I always try and keep my mind sharp.

What does the future hold for you?

I am going back to New York to work with

my agent and hope to do feature film work and more stage work.

To find out more about Justin follow him at Instagram.com/Justinyounts HotspotsMagazine.com | 65

By Maria Espinal

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In the spirit of the Holiday Season, and as we get closer to welcoming a new year, here are four places of worship that welcome you with open arms on a daily basis. Happy Holidays!

1. Sunshine Cathedral MCC 1480 SW 9th Ave. • Fort Lauderdale, FL 33315 954.462.2024 • sunshinecathedral.org Service Times: Sunday 9am & 10:30am / Sunday 10:30am Live Stream Facebook & YouTube Christmas Eve: 7pm & 9pm in-person • 9pm live stream Sunshine Cathedral is a progressive, positive, practical spiritual community that affirms the sacred value of all people. Historically, Sunshine Cathedral's primary constituency has consisted of same-gender loving and gender non-conforming people and their allies.

3. Unity on the Bay 137 NE 19th St. • Miami, FL 33132 • 305.573.9191 unityonthebay.org • Service Times: Sundays at 9:30am & 11:15am • Holiday Services: Christmas Eve, Dec 24th 6:30pm / Kwanzaa Dec 26th 9:30am & 11:15am / New Year's Eve, Dec 31st 6:30pm (all services in-person, facebook & youtube) Unity on the Bay is a diverse spiritual home that embraces and radiates unconditional love. People are drawn to Unity on the Bay because of the "feel good" energy and positive attitude.

2. Holy Angels National Catholic Church 1436 NE 26th St. • Wilton Manors, FL 33305 954.633.2987 • holyangelsfl.org Service Times: Sundays at 11am • Christmas Services: Dec 24th • 7pm & Dec 25th • 11am Celebrating Mass for over 20 years in Wilton Manors, Holy Angels is an independent Catholic community. Everyone is welcome to participate in their celebration of God's love. Holy Angels celebrates, in a Catholic tradition, the Sacramental gifts given to us by a loving God.

4. Congregation Etz Chaim 2038 N. Dixie Hwy. • Wilton Manors, FL 33305 954.564.9232 • etzchaimflorida.org Shabbat Services: Fridays at 8pm (Facebook) Congregation Etz Chaim is a unique congregation in South Florida committed to building a spiritual home for the gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender Jewish community and their partners. Congregation Etz Chaim first opened our doors in Miami in 1974 and has been the spiritual home for generations since.

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By Maria Espinal

Zona Fresca 1635 N Federal Hwy. • Fort Lauderdale, FL 33305 954.566.1777 • zonafresca.com Mon-Thu & Sat-Sun 11am – 9pm • Fri 11am – 10pm An award-winning Mexican fast-casual restaurant that serves Mexican food you can eat every day! Called a "gem to South Florida" by one of their customers, Since 1965, Zona Fresca takes pride in having "a great place where people in our community can gather, enjoy a high quality meal and experience Mexican food that is fresh, light and can be consumed every day." Zona Fresca now has 7 locations in Florida from Fort Lauderdale to Delray Beach and one in New Jersey.

Crema Gourmet Espresso Bar 1601 Washington Ave. • Miami Beach, FL 33139 786.216.7343 • cremagourmetespressobarfl.com, Daily 8am - 7pm From espresso to penne pastas, Crema Gourmet offers a wide range menu of delicious options to choose from. A modern approach to your typical coffee shop, Crema Gourmet attracts young entrepreneurs in need of a quiet place to work as well as groups of friends and family looking to catch up over a cup of delicious coffee, wine, or a flakey, hot melt in your mouth chocolate croissant. With five locations in Miami-Dade, Crema offers weekly specials consist of 50% off bottles of wines on Tuesdays, Friendly Wednesdays offer a free drink with a food purchase when you follow and tag Crema Gourmet, and $9 pastas from 5-9pm.

What The Pho 2033 Wilton Drive • Wilton Manors, FL 33305 • 954.870.6060 mywhatthepho.com • Mon – Thu 12pm – 3pm & 5pm – 10pm • Fri 2pm – 3pm & 5pm – 11pm • Sat 1pm – 11pm • Sun 1pm – 10pm Pho is a Vietnamese soup consisting of broth, rice noodles, herbs, and meat (usually beef), sometimes chicken. Choose from chicken wings to springs rolls, tofu, edamames or crepes filled with shrimp, pork and vegetables. Choose your favorite hearty soup from vegetables & tofu, beef & meatballs or chicken. Enjoy their hot or cold Vermicelli Noodles Bowl Bún, their version of the pasta bowl served with lettuce, bean sprout, mints, carrot and scallion. Enjoy!

Yard House 11701 Lake Victoria Gardens Avenue • Palm Beach Gardens, FL 33410 • 561.691.6901 • yardhouse.com Sun- Thur 11am – 11:30pm • Fri – Sat 11am – 12am Visit your local Yard House in Palm Beach Gardens to experience innovative foods from their amazing kitchen. At Yard House You'll find the world's largest selection of draft beer along with a menu with more than 100 items made from scratch daily. Among their recommendations is the house cheesestake, chicken tenders, lobster garlic noodles (vegetarian) and grilled chicken & avocado sandwich (gluten-free).

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By Romeo San Vicente

Photo: sachyn mital/wikipedia.com

Know What You Did Last Summer") and Chase Stokes ("Outer Banks"). But it's the addition of Laverne Cox that has us most excited. No word on who she plays, but we're hoping she's a grand villain, someone gorgeous and diabolical. It'll drop on Netflix when it's all said and done, so keep your subscription current.

Laverne Cox Joins The Cast of “Uglies” At 16 you are forced to get cosmetic surgery to conform to an ideal beauty standard; no average looking people allowed in this pretty dystopia. That's the "Logan's Run"-esque premise of "Uglies," a futuristic nightmare of sexiness in which you're not exterminated at 30, you're simply never allowed to look older than that. Based on Scott Westerfeld's 86 | HotspotsMagazine.com

bestselling novel, the film adaptation — to be directed by McG, who'll make it all look sleek and shiny, no doubt — is currently collecting goodlooking actors. Joey King ("The Kissing Booth") leads the cast in the role of Tally Youngblood (seriously, the best character name) and will be joined by Keith Powers ("What/If"), Brianne Tju, ("I

HELENA BONHAM CARTER GOES UK SOAP OPERA DIVA FOR RUSSELL T. DAVIES "Queer as Folk" and "It's a Sin" creator Russell T. Davies is diving deep down the queer British nostalgia well for his next project. It's called "Nolly" and stars Helena Bonham Carter as wildly popular British soap star Noele Gordon, who appeared for over 20 years on the series "Crossroads." Here's where American audiences need a quick history lesson: Gordon was beloved. In fact, she was too beloved for network executives, who wanted to fire her and cancel the show that they deemed old-fashioned, in spite of its ongoing success. "Sacked" they call it over there, and sack her they did, much to the dismay of Gordon and her fans. But Gordon persisted and thrived, having the last laugh. It's going to be wonderful to see a legendary character actor like Helena Bonham Carter portray a different sort of

Photo: Flickr

legend. And if we miss some of the finer points, we'll just text our British gays and have them fill in the blanks.

KAL PENN'S 'BELATED' COMING OUT PROJECT Weeks after going public with the news that he's been in a queer relationship for about 11 years, "Harold and Kumar" star Kal Penn is

'LADY CHATTERLY'S LOVER' COMES AGAIN Emma Corrin, breakout star of "The Crown" where

Kal Penn

already at work on a comedy pilot for FX, and it's about a man who comes out as gay in his 40s. The project is called "Belated," created

by Peter Tolan (creator of "Rescue Me," who himself came out later in life) and starring Penn as a doctor who enters his 40s and realizes he's queer. The series will revolve around his attempts to co-parent with his ex-wife while navigating

Jack O'Connell

his new gay life. For a very long time, coming out stories have been dominated by the experiences of young white gay men, so for a sitcom centering a middleaged person of color to get a shot is a good sign.

More wide-ranging approaches to storytelling mean more queer people get to see their lives represented in film and television. For this we're grateful to Penn's willingness to speak about his life. Fingers crossed for a series order!

Photo: Twitter/NetflixFilm

Photo: wikipedia.com

Helena Bonham Carter

Emma Corrin

she wowed audiences as Princess Diana, who also identifies as queer, will take on the role of Lady Constance Chatterly — the well-born woman who risks it all to have an affair with the gamekeeper — in a new adaptation of D.H. Lawrence's legendarily scandalous novel "Lady Chatterly's Lover." This iteration, already in production for Netflix in the UK, is directed by Laure de Clermont-Tonnerre ("The Mustang") and stars fellow queer actor Ella Hunt ("Anna and the Apocalypse") as well as Jack O'Connell ("Godless") and Matthew Duckett ("A Confession").

There have been some pretty racy film versions of this story over the years — the novel more or less established "torrid" as a contemporary genre — but with a woman in the director's chair we're hoping for a fresh take on that. Ideally what we're looking for here is some meaningfully horny and cinematic golden-age feminist television. And we'll wait until 2022 to get it.

Romeo San Vicente is Lord Chatterly's lover.

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By Tom Bonanti

Don't Let Those

HOLIDAY HANGOVERS

Spoil Your MISTLETOE MERRIMENT!

You know the feeling – pounding head, dry mouth, queasy stomach, achy tired body. You started out with the best of intentions-just a few drinks with friends at a holiday gathering. Without too much coaxing you got caught up in the merriment, had a few too many, and now you're nursing a hangover! Not to worry!

Most of the time the effects are only temporary, but too much holiday imbibing can be hazardous to those health and fitness goals you set for 2022. Although small amounts of alcohol have been shown to give a short-term boost in free testosterone levels and increase glycogen uptake, these benefits are short lived.

While a few holiday cocktails may reduce stress and promote glad tidings 100 | HotspotsMagazine.com

among friends, making this a nightly ritual is strictly taboo for serious fitness enthusiasts.

Alcohol is a toxin and a host of physical abnormalities can arise as a result of “getting sloshed.” These abnormalities can reduce your strength, endurance, recovery capabilities, aerobic strength, ability to metabolize fat, and muscle growth. In addition, a nasty hangover can make you lose precious workouts and other fun activities of the season.

Besides wreaking havoc with the hard work, you've done in the gym, alcohol can also affect your nervous system and brain. In small doses, alcohol produces a relaxing effect, reduces tension, lowers inhibitions, but it also slows reflexes, impairs concentration, and reduces co-ordination. In larger does, it

slurs speech, causes drowsiness, and alters emotions.

Photo by Anna Shvets/Pexels

Photo by Andrea Piacquadio/Pexels

In very high dosages alcohol can induce vomiting, breathing difficulties, unconsciousness and even a coma. Death from alcohol poisoning, results from respiratory failure, in effect because of alcohol's depressive effect on the respiratory center. Fortunately, you either puke your guts out or pass out before you kill yourself.

Alcohol's effects on the heart and circulatory systems are numerous.

Overdrinking will make you throw in the towel after just a few minutes of cardio because your endurance will be zero.

When consuming alcoholic beverages your heat loss increases, because alcohol dilates the blood vessels. This heat loss can cause your muscles to get cold and, as a result, become slower and weaker during contractions when you are lifting weights.

In addition, alcohol can cause several gastric, digestive, and nutritional irregularities. This drug causes a release of insulin that will in turn increase the metabolism of glycogen, thereby causing you to store fat more readily and abundantly. Since alcohol consumption can interfere with the absorption of many nutrients, it is possible to become anemic and deficient in the B vitamins. Your B's are responsible for a healthy metabolism and energy supply.

But wait, the buzz on booze isn't all a

downer! Recent research indicates that red wine may have cholesterol fighting ingredients. In addition to resveratrol, the antioxidant known to help reduce cholesterol levels, red wine also contains saponins that are believed to bind bad cholesterol (LDL), preventing its buildup and accumulation.

Best sources of these good chemicals include all red wines.

I'm not trying to put a damper on everyone's fun!

I'm just trying to make you aware that when you raise a glass of the bubbly, do so responsibly! Here's to a joyous holiday season and an incredible 2022!

Tom Bonanti is a massage therapist (MA#40288) and fitness trainer with his own one on one gym and massage studio www.pumpnincgym.com in Ft. Lauderdale.

Contact trainertomb@aol.com to schedule a free consultation.

If you were expecting more of the same from "Saved by the Bell" when Peacock revived the series in 2020, you wouldn't just be mistaken — you'd be pleasantly surprised.

A staple of TV for a generation of teens, the show, which originally ran from 1989 to 1993, has undergone a woke update that, this season, includes a powerful trans storyline.

Yep, in 2021, Bayside High now naturally reflects the world as we know it. And so, there's Lexi, the popular girl who just happens to be transgender. No big deal. At least that's how the show treats it, and how former Disney star Josie Totah, the 20-year-old trans actor known for roles on "Glee," the NBC comedy "Champions" and the Disney Channel series "Jessie," prefers it.

Recently, Totah spoke about the important message for trans allies in the show's latest season of "Saved by the Bell" and how she thinks trans representation on TV has finally started to depict transgender people in a relatable and authentic way.

Josie Totah Leads the Trans Charge on TV

The former Disney star talks LGBTQ+ relatability on 'Saved by the Bell' and what's next for trans representation

By Chris Azzopardi

This is not the "Saved by the Bell" I grew up with when it comes to LGBTQ+ representation. What does it mean to you to be a major part of that kind of representation on this more evolved and more queerinclusive revival that's far less hetero-centric than the original?

It's awesome. Our show is so funny, and we get to tell so many cool stories that [weren't] told in the original

that are [relevant] to conversations that we're having today, that represent people who've been around since the inception of time. And it's awesome. It's such a privilege.

Have you gone back and watched any original episodes of "Saved by the Bell"?

I just wonder how you interpret the conversations that were being had then versus the conversations that are a part of this reimagining.

Yeah, we went back and watched it as a cast.

I mean, I had seen the show before just in its rerun phase in the early 2000s. I feel like that was a very big thing. I really based my character on the classic "Mean Girls" trope that we all know and love, and [I] flipped it on its head and gave her some surgery to make her very interesting and cool. Less stereotypically basic.

Being a part of this show was so important to you that you put school off to be a part of it. Can you explain why?

Well, I put school off, and then school put me off because the pandemic happened. So I was ahead of the curve, but I'm still in college. Somehow, I'm still graduating in May. [Showrunner Tracey Wigfield] told me that she had an idea of a character that she wrote for me, and I fell in love. We met up at a coffee shop in downtown L.A., and she's just so cool. I love that woman so, so much, and that's sort of how it happened. It's one of the best opportunities I ever said yes to.

As a producer, can you talk about what kind of input you're giving when it comes to LGBTQ+ representation on the show, specifically as it pertains to Lexi?

I got to sit in the writers' room this season, which was so fun. I joined once or twice a week and sat in and had a great time. Just to get to be in the room with so many fantastic writers from so many different walks of life and getting to bring my own authentic journey and story to the show was awesome. And I think it [made] the story

truer to real life and more entertaining because it was more unique, and there's relatability. So, getting to that was awesome, but also getting to be a part of the other stories that we get to tell, like Aisha [played by Alycia Pascual-Peña]; her journey through her life, particularly in episode seven, was super fun. I remember being in the writers' room that week and getting to delve into that.

Episode five blew my mind, especially as a fan of the original series. If I would've seen episode five when I was a kid, it would've changed my life. How did the idea to explore Lexi dealing with a really serious incident of transphobia evolve?

Tracey has been very cool from the

beginning and she's just like, "We can talk about however much you wanna talk about when it comes to Lexi's gender identity." It was clear to us that we wanted to tell a story that sort of delved into her identity in a way that was more nuanced, that we hadn't been able to come to last season, and that also sort of progressed her arc as a character outside of her gender identity. I just had my second COVID vaccine at the time in March when we were pitching different things of how we would tell this story, and someone came up with an idea for Lexi to write a play that would solve

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transphobia, which I think is literally the funniest thing in the entire world. It just is a ridiculously beautiful episode in that way, and it's so funny.

It deals with a really important societal issue — who carries the burden of having to make change for the trans community when transphobia happens? How did that resonate with you on a personal level?

That's just a very real thing when it comes to the burdening of trauma, and it's crazy how people put the oppressed in charge of educating and solving things that everyone really should be working on. It was sick to get to tell it; it was very cool. And I'm glad that we show people probably how _not_ to be an asshole when it comes to things like that, and also how to be a better ally.

By the end of the episode, Lexi realizes that she's got real support in her peers.

But you also have Slater, played by Mario Lopez, on your side. You've got Jessie on your side. The original cast is advocating for you; they're allies of the community, clearly. What kind of conversations did you have with the original cast concerning that episode when it came to any kind of LGBTQ+ issues and transphobia?

None of the original cast, but Belmont [Cameli, as Jamie Spano], Dexter [Darden as Devante Young] and Alycia are some of my best friends in the entire world, and I'm so honored, particularly with Bel and Dex and

112 | HotspotsMagazine.com

Mitch Hoog [as Mac Morris], just to have three guys who are straight and cis and really understand me and see me for my full self and not just one part of me. But also recognizing that life is different for me. It's so beautiful, and particularly with Bel and Dex just because they were in that episode the most. They're just the most supportive guys ever. And I felt so loved and so privileged. It brought me to tears. We shared a lot of love, and I really felt like they were carrying me on their shoulders that week.

It's important for straight men to see that it's cool when you stand up for people in the queer community.

Yeah, it's hot.

What was your high school experience like?

I mean, I went to a Catholic high school where I would call teachers by their first names and they'd be like, "Shut the hell up, sit down. My name is Sister Rebecca." And I'd be like, "Becca." I thought that I was really cool, but I wasn't. [I was] kind of just this kid who people knew from the Disney Channel and they're like, "That's that weirdo."

Yeah, I was crazy, but I met two of my best friends there, and we're still best friends to this day, and we survived. I think if you can survive Catholic high school with people, you're with them forever. But also it was an awesome Catholic high school, I will say.

Very supportive of gender diversity and sexual orientation, and they were very cool.

I was very, very privileged to not have a toxic experience.

I grew up Catholic too, and you don't hear that very often about the Catholic experience.

You really don't, but they always told me, "Boo boo, like, you might be weird, but God created you. So we blame him and not you. And you're meant to be who you're meant to be."

There's obviously been so much talk over the years concerning trans representation. How can we improve the representation of trans characters in TV and film? And how do you think Lexi advances trans representation in a

positive way?

First and foremost, it's played by me, an actual trans person, which obviously is unfortunately revolutionary since so many of our stories have been appropriated and have been told by people who have no idea what the trans experience is like and have surrounded it with [the] negativity of violence. Also, I'm a producer, which is sick. Like, that's amazing because I think it speaks to the authenticity in front of and behind the camera, which is very, very important. I'm not just being tokenized; I'm being listened to and I'm being valued, and it does change the show. It makes it better in my opinion, at least I'd hope, because it makes it more authentic.

And I think that's sort of the goal, right? Not just placing people in these positions to sort of fill a diversity hire, but valuing their experience and capitalizing on their experience and their willingness to share for the benefit of the story, which is awesome. It makes our show so good.

Like you mentioned, so many trans narratives _are_ told through the lens of trans struggle.

That's important, but it's also important to tell other stories too, because we're fully encompassing human beings.

Do you see a change in how Hollywood is representing trans people that isn't focused on trans struggle?

I think we're turning a corner, but I wanna see a trans rom-com of a girl starring in her own movie and living her best life. I wanna see an undercover spy movie where a trans girl has to travel to Bulgaria and take down a drug heist. There are so many different realms that I wanna see and I'm going to do. And I'm so excited that I get to be young and able and afforded that opportunity to throw my hat in the ring. I'm grateful that I'm living in this

time, and I'm also excited to hopefully be able to tell other trans stories and other stories of people of color and people from different marginalized communities too, and highlighting their own journeys as well, which I think is very important.

Chris Azzopardi is the Editorial Director of Pride Source Media Group and Q Syndicate, the national LGBTQ+ wire service. He has interviewed a multitude of superstars, including Cher, Meryl Streep, Mariah Carey and Beyoncé. His work has also appeared in The New York Times, Vanity Fair, GQ and Billboard. Reach him via Twitter @chrisazzopardi.

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Dear Andreus, A few months ago, my boyfriend was in a car accident, and he was left dealing with a lot of physical pain, which required pain management and lots of prescriptions to address different things. At some point, he started to abuse the medications, and has formed a serious addiction problem. I don't want to leave him, but it is a trigger for me since I have already had a very traumatic relationship in the past with someone that had a very serious addiction. He does not think he has a problem and says that it is only to address his pain, although he is taking the medication more often than prescribed. I don't know what to do. Any suggestions?

Sincerely, Connor S. Dear Connor, It is always difficult to watch someone you love making bad decisions, and even more difficult sometimes to get people to take responsibility for them.

Addiction can be as hard on a loved one as it is on the addict themselves.

The choices that you must make at this point are more about your own selfpreservation. If he is not willing to stop, you must think about how far you are willing to go on his journey with him, and if you truly think he will ever seek help. Otherwise, you may have to cut your losses. One suggestion though, is maybe to talk to his doctor (keeping in mind laws surrounding privacy) and see if any of the medications can be switched out for a placebo. I wish I had a better solution for you, but addiction is a disease that only the addict has the power to treat. Best of luck.

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By Andreus Quinones

Dear Andreus, My boyfriend and I got married 6 months ago and life has been great, even though I had to come to terms with the fact that he never wants children. Recently, I was contacted and informed that I have a 5-yearold son from a previous relationship, and his mother recently passed away. Her family contacted me, and expect me as the next of kin, to take full responsibility for him.

Though in shock from hearing about a child I didn't know I had, I am completely willing to be a full-time dad. This has, however, raised an issue with my husband, who is still against having children. I don't feel like I should have to choose. I don't know what to do. Help please!

Sincerely, Chad L. Dear Chad, In a perfect world, you should not have to choose. However, the reality is, that unless your husband can compromise, you will undoubtedly have a choice to make. I would start by maybe offering a trial run to give them a chance to get to know each other and go from there. If your husband is resistant to this idea, then you certainly must decide with whom your future will be. Who knows?

Maybe they will get along, and you all can be a family. I sincerely wish you the very best.