Hotspots! February 3, 2022 (Issue 3703)

36th Year

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

Jeff Sterling Chief Executive Officer Scott Holland VP - Operations/Associate Publisher ADMINISTRATION VP - Development | Jamie Forsythe Business Manager | Alyson omas Administrative Assistant | Ryan Isom DIGITAL & TV VP - TV & Digital | Darren Loli Digital Manager | Troy Maillis Special Digital Projects | Austin Rahn Events Manager | 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 CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Chris Azzopardi | Tom Bonanti Maria Espinal | S. Elfman Mike Jeknavorian | Andreus Quinones CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Cedric Roberson | Dale Stine | Dennis Dean | Robert Hadley CELEBRITY HOST Shawn Palacious (“Kitty Meow”) LOGISTICS Cedric Roberson Copyright 2022, 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.

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.

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.

We offer comprehensive and cost-effective advertising programs on multiple platforms including:

• Print Magazine • Web Advertising • E-mail Marketing

• Streaming Video Advertising • Event Marketing • Social Media

O N T H E INSIDE

Issue 03 - Feb.3-16, 2022

Cover

Cover Models: Tavarius Graves & Wesley Escobar Cover photographed by: Dennis Dean DennisDean.com @DennisDeanImages

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Feature: Varla Jean Merman's “Little Prick” | Feature: Valentine’s Gift Guide “Over 50 Items I Recommend” | Feature: The Florida Renaissance Festival | Pix: LeBoy’s 7th Anniversary Feature: Latinos Salud to Host Gala al Fresco | Feature: Love The Skin You're In: 28 Quotes From Black Excellence Out with Scott / What’s Hot | Scott Holland’s Guide to Events Pix: Hollywood Pride • Deep Inside Hollywood • Hotspots Hotties: Tavarius Graves & Wesley Escobar Hot Places • Hot Eats • Hot Bodies • Names & Faces: Brett Annis • Pix: Hotel Gaythering • Hot Advice

MARKETPLACE ON PAGE 113

OUT WITH SCOTT

By Scott Holland

at Sanborn Square Park and surrounding streets (72 N. Federal Highway). Another fab year for this Art Show!

Pride Skate

My Hollywood Pride

On Saturday, January 22 the Hollywood LGBTQ+ Council presented the inaugural “My Hollywood Pride” in Downtown Hollywood. Velvet Lenore, Miss Florida F.I. at Large, was the hostess and the event featured lots of entertainment including, Damian Lenore, Daisy Deadpetals, Erika Norell, Melony Munro (Miss Florida F.I.) and much more! Congrats on a fab first year!

Also on Saturday, the Original 16th Boca Raton Fine Art Show took place outdoors

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From Wednesday, January 26 through Sunday the 30th was IGNITE, Broward's new family-friendly immersive art experience showcasing exciting interactive light and video installations by leading contemporary artists

Smart Ride Check Presentation

Ignite

The Eagle

and designers. Site-specific artworks will illuminate and activate locations in Fort Lauderdale and Dania Beach. The featured artists were David Carson, Susan Narduli, Edison Peñafiel, Marcel Andristyak, and Glowing Bulbs.

On Thursday, January 27 there were 2 luncheons, the first was The MDGLCC's 10th Annual "State of Our Community" EXPOsure Luncheon at the Miami Marriott Biscayne Bay. There were many important guest speakers including Mayors of a few of the cities. Also, The Wilton Manors Business Association presented their quarterly luncheon at Bonas Italian Restaurant.

Manors produced their annual Mr. Eagle contest. With 5 qualified contestants, the new Mr. Eagle is: Schlueter Bubbadip Kevin

MDGLCC

On Friday, Jan 28, we stopped by the Alibi for their Outcasts show which is normally hosted by Nicky Monet, but she was away, and the fab London Adour took her place. The night stars Lana Summers, Sin Silva, Fantasia Royale GaGa and Dex Morningstar, with this week's special guest Damien LeNore.

On Saturday, January 29, The Eagle Wilton

Alibi

HotspotsMagazine.com | 11

WHAT’S HOT WHO•WHAT•WHEN•WHERE

By Scott Holland

FEB 03 - 16

F9

Gerry Mastrolia

Hamburger Mary’s Friday, February 4 Hamburger Marys Wilton Manors presents a special celebrity guest from RuPaul's Drag Race Season 12, Widow Von'du, with 2 seating's at 7:30 and 10:30 and in between a viewing of Drag Race. If you can't make it tonight, Widow will be there on Saturday as well. Book your table now at Hamburgermarys.com/wiltonmanors.

Gerry Mastrolia of the “Golden Gays NYC” stars in “Legendary Divas, Kiss My Sass” at the Empire Stage (1140 N. Flagler Dr. Ft. Lauderdale) for 6 performances only starting tonight. All aboard the Very Gerry Vessel, as it journeys through Old

Hollywood and pays tribute to the legendary ladies who made Hollywood what it is today. Ever wanted to know what past stars think of the present stars? Or maybe what they would talk about or even sing? His solo impersonation show will be presented in the style of some of the greatest character actors and impersonators of the 20th century... like Danny LaRue, Frank Gorshin, Charles Pierce, T.C. Jones, Jim Bailey, Rich Little and Craig Russell.

Today through Feb 13 on Fridays and Saturdays at 8pm and Sunday at 5pm.

Tickets are $30 (Use Promo Code GERRY to get $5 off) at EmpireStage.com or call 954678-1496.

The Renand Foundation & SunServe brings you: Love On Top, A Benefit Concert Affair.

This will be an elegant black-tie evening of music, appetizers, cocktails, and a night to celebrate love at the Center for Spiritual

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Photo: https://www.facebook.com/eatnoodlestation/

Anniversary. The event takes place from 12-9:30pm, and they will feature many specials.

The Cookout, a Black History Month Field Day Fundraiser, takes place today from 1-6pm at the Pride Center For Equality Park Courtyard (2040 N Dixie Highway) and features food, games and entertainment.

The 35th Annual Boca Raton Museum Art Festival Returns for Outdoor Fun today and Sunday, Feb 6th throughout Mizner Park. Better than ever with 140+ Artists and Artisans from Across the Country.

Noodle Station The Museum kicks off the new season with several major events Living (4849 N. Dixie Hwy) with cocktails at celebrating the success of "Machu Picchu 6:30 and concert at 8pm. It takes a village to raise a child and tonight they raise funds to continue the efforts of building sustainable communities in Haiti. They are also raising funds for SunServe to help raise funds to maintain their LGBTQ mental health and social services. In the spirit of love and collaboration, the evening will feature music by: LeNora Jaye, Antonio Edwards, The BoyS, Miss Bouvee', Alexander Zenoz, Boca Raton Museum Art Festival Matthew Darren, Eytan Deray, Jonathan Davis, and the Golden Empires of Peru," the world Synergy Twins, and Christopher Hamblin. premiere exhibition breaking all previous For tickets or more info, go to: attendance records. The Museum anchors SunServe.org/Love the northern tip of the shops and restaurants, at 501 Plaza Real in downtown Saturday, February 5 Boca Raton. Admission is free and open to Noodle Station (3045 N federal Highway, the public.

Fort Lauderdale) opened right before the pandemic, so they are finally able to From today through March 4, Claudia celebrate their GRAND OPENING, but they Castillo ART studio (2215 Wilton Drive, are combining it with their 2 Year

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Claudia Castillo

The Eagle Wilton Manors

Awards at the Broward Performing Arts Center's Mary Porter Riverview Ballroom from 5:30 – 7:30 p.m. The cocktail reception and awards ceremony will celebrate individuals and families whose generous donations of time, talent and resources have had a significant positive impact on South Florida's LGBTQ community. Tickets to the cocktail reception and awards ceremony are $75 per person and may be purchased at ourfund.org/awards. For additional information please email ocaballero@our-fund.org or call 954-565-1090.

Our Fund Wilton Manors) presents “Soulmates” by John Davies. The art gallery is open Sun, Wed, and Thurs from 4-10pm and Fri and Sat from 4-11:55pm or by appointment by calling 954.274.7047. You can visit the studio exhibit or shop online at claudiacastilloARTstudio.com.

Our Fund Foundation presents the Third Annual South Florida LGBTQ Philanthropy

The Eagle Wilton Manors presents Dark Circuit from 9pm to 3am starring DJ Thiago Oliveira with opening DJ Alle Reich. $15 cover.

Monday, February 7 Compass Community Center Presents Miss Palm Beach Pride Pageant at the Lake Worth Playhouse at 7pm. The event will be hosted

by Miss Florida F.I. at Large, Velvet LeNore and the first lady of the Palm Beaches, Melissa St. John, and will honor Miss Palm Beach 2020, Taquoya Love Dupree. For more information, go to Compassglcc.com.

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Vibes on the Drive Wednesday, February 9 Actors' Playhouse at the Miracle Theatre presents “On Your Feet,” the inspiring true story about heart, heritage and two people who believed in their talent—and each other—to become an international sensation: Gloria and Emilio Estefan. “On Your Feet,” features some of the most iconic songs of the past quarter-century, including “Rhythm is Gonna Get You,” “Conga,” “Get On Your Feet,” “Don't Want To Lose You Now,” “1-2-3” and “Coming Out of the Dark.” Prepare to be on your feet from start to finish! The show plays today through March 6 on Wednesdays – Saturdays at 8 pm, with matinees on Saturdays at 2 pm and Sundays at 3 pm.

For more information or to purchase tickets, go to: actorsplayhouse.org Tonight, is the monthly (2nd Wed of the month) Vibes on the Drive at 2245 Wilton Drive. This month will be starring the musical talents of Jayland and Mrly from 5-8pm.

Thursday, February 10 Stonewall's newest exhibition Robert Giard will open today with reception from 6:30 – 8pm at the Stonewall Library & Archives: 1300 East Sunrise Blvd., Fort Lauderdale. In 1985, after attending a performance of Larry Kramer's The Normal Heart—one of the first dramas dealing with the impact of AIDS on gay life—Robert Giard decided to devote his energies as a photographer to some

Guy Harvey

aspect of the gay and lesbian community.

Thus, was born his two-decade long project of photographing over 600 gay and lesbian writers—from famous playwrights to emerging novelists to unsung poets and pioneering. The exhibition will be on display until April 15 and is curated by Hunter O'Hanian. A curatorial discussion and tour of the Archives will be included.

Please RSVP to Monique@stonewallmuseum.org The 4ward Gala 2022 Pa'Lante Awards takes place today at the Biltmore Hotel, Coral Gables from 6-10pm honoring Rosa Maria Paya Acevedo, Leroy Jones, Judge Victoria Sigler and Grecia Ordonez. Tickets are $150 and table sponsors are $1,500, and to urchase go to Eventbrite.com, key word “4ward Gala.”

Saturday, February 12 AHF presents A West Side Story Burlesque Show at 6pm at Las Olas Intracoastal Promenade Park. Free tickets available at AHFEvents.org Outlandish Performing Arts at Sunshine Cathedral presents Varla Jean Merman's “Little Prick” with Gerald Goode on the piano. This is a one night only performance at 8pm and for tickets go to: Sunshinecathedral.org.

The Eagle Wilton Manors presents “Radiance: A glow Party Event” starring DJ Alex Ramos. $15 cover.

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Leboy celebrates Valentine's Weekend by presenting ChiChi Larue and two of her sexiest men: Arad Winwin and Alam Wernick. If you miss them tonight, you are in luck as they will all be at Leboy tomorrow night, Saturday, Feb 13.

Guy Harvey, Ph.D., world-renowned artist, scientist, conservationist and entrepreneur, will be available for meet-and-greets, photo ops and merchandise signing at his new gallery and shop (816 E. Las Olas Blvd. Fort Lauderdale) today from 1:30-3:30pm and 46pm. If you miss today, he will be there again tomorrow, Sunday, Feb 13 during the same times. The unmistakable splash of Dr. Harvey's iconic art, apparel, books and ocean-inspired accessories and gifts come to life in the new 2,600-sq.-ft. gallery and store. The retail store is open Monday through Saturday from noon to 6 p.m. and Sundays from noon to 5 p.m. For more information, call the store at 954-7691996.

HOT Stuff Genesis Health Institute, the intersection of next-generation medicine and medical aesthetics, is pleased to announce that they raised $27,760 for Abandoned Pet Rescue at their December event. A check for the proceeds was presented to Abandoned Pet Rescue leadership on Wednesday, January 19. The money was raised as part of the annual holiday party titled “Celebrate the Season at Genesis Health Institute.”

LeBoy The party welcomed more than 100 guests and featured entertainment, food, raffles, prizes, and a fashion show. For more information on Genesis Health Institute, please visit www.ghinstitute.com or call 954-561-3175.

South Florida Tennis Club (SFTC) presents The Clay Court Classic, the largest LGBTQ tennis tournament in the United States, and Sun Serve will be a beneficiary for the fiveday event. The tournament will host approximately 350 participants and garner close to 1,000 people. On Wednesday, Feb 16th in partnership with the ATP Tour Delray Beach Open, there will be PRIDE Night with discount tickets. In addition to the tournament, there will also be a registration party held at Hunters Nightclub in Wilton Manors on Thursday, Feb 17th. Tournament matches will be played at three locations: Lauderdale Tennis Club, Jimmy Evert Tennis Center at Holiday Park, and Dillon Tennis Center. For more information go to Claycourtclassic.com.

Sunday, February 13 (Superbowl Sunday) Pub on the Drive and Gym Bar present the biggest tailgate party on the drive with a HUGE 20-foot screen. The party starts at 4:30pm!

Leboy owner Charles Horton takes over Lit Bar and invites everyone to join them for a super-sized Sunday event: “The Big Game” with super-sized screens and free food.

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Genesis

After a long year spent in lockdown, drag long-hauler Varla Jean Merman has been paroled and is ready to stick it to you! Join everyone's favorite non-essential twerker back at Fort Lauderdale's Sunshine Cathedral Center for the Performing Arts (1480 SW 9th Ave.) on Saturday, February 12, at 8pm where she will vaccinate audiences with a double-dose of infectious new songs and viral videos. Varla Jean Merman's Little Prick is the laughter-filled shot- in-the-arm booster that we all need!

It was a pleasure to sit down and talk with Varla's Alter Ego Jeffery Roberson for this exclusive Hotspots interview:

Outlandish at Sunshine Cathedral Center for the Performing Arts Presents

Varla Jean Merman's "Little Prick"

By Scott Holland 22 | HotspotsMagazine.com

What did you do during the Quarantine?

I drank heavily every single day. Just like I did before the Quarantine.

How excited were you to get back to performing?

I couldn't wait to get back onstage, but I was actually kind of nervous that I had forgotten how to perform.

Turns out it's like riding a bike: It's easier to do when you've been drinking heavily.

As a child, were you always a ham/performer or when did the bug bite you?

Wait, are you calling me a ham? Well, I admit I can be a bit overly theatrical and riddled with histrionics…all of which I owe to my mother. In fact, I think I popped out of the womb singing "I Will Survive."

When was the first time you did Drag?

In high school! Shocking right…that I went to high school. The school had a

senior auction, where a junior could buy a senior and make them do whatever they wanted. So, I paid a girl to buy me and "make" me do drag in school the next day.

Yes, I paid to do drag. Thank God I'm the one getting paid now.

How did you come up with the character of Varla Jean Merman?

I read Ethel Merman's autobiography where there is a chapter entitled "My Marriage to Ernest Borgnine." (They were actually married for a notorious 38 days) But when you turn the page, it is blank. So funny and so bitter! I thought that if she had a baby from that marriage, she would have gotten rid of it at birth. And that's where I came up with the character of Varla, unwanted at birth, but with a celebrity lineage.

In your wildest dreams did you ever imagine she would have such longevity and be this popular?

In my wildest dreams I hoped I would be the most famous drag queen in the world. I think someone beat me to it. Ha! Seriously, I can't believe I'm still doing this 30 years later.

Do you still do the Easy Cheese number?

I have not done that song where I eat Easy Cheese while simultaneously singing soprano coloratura in years for two reasons: I'm now lactose intolerant and a baritone.

You have a wedding ring on, how long have you been married and how did you meet?

Dewitte and I have been married 4 years and we met on an RSVP cruise in the gym!

When he saw me, I had a full beard, and that night I shaved to do my show, and so then he couldn't find me because he didn't recognize me without the beard. He eventually found me.

When did you know he was the one?

When he marched up to me in the gym and said he was gonna marry me one day. I like a man who knows what he wants.

How does your hubby, Dewitte, deal with you traveling so much?

He's retired so he comes with me most of the time!

Speaking of traveling, you have traveled the world. Is there a favorite city or concert hall you performed in and why?

I love San Francisco and Palm Springs! And Fort Lauderdale! And those three cities

“When he marched up to me in the gym and said he was gonna marry me one day.” have one special thing in common: old gays! My base!

Is there something Varla has not done yet that's on her bucket list?

To be half nude and dressed as a giant hypodermic needle in a church! Oh wait, I'm doing that on February 12 in my show at the Sunshine Cathedral!

Describe Varla in 3 words?

Kooky, repetitive, and repetitive.

Tell me about your new show, "Little Prick" and why our readers should come see it?

Who wouldn't jump at the chance to see Varla Jean Merman's Little Prick? Covid has caused a lot of people to go a little nutty, and Varla is no exception. So, come to see a crazy lady fall apart in front of you. Hey, the New York Times called the show "delightfully funny!" And who doesn't believe the New York Times, besides half of our country! But seriously, the main reason to see the show is to see the song featuring my one-year-old mini golden doodle, Baby Jasper!

Is there something I didn't ask you that you want to talk about?

Yes…please come see me because I haven't worked much lately and I'm flat broke!

For more information on Varla Jean Merman, you can go to her website VarlaJean.com or follow her on instagram.com/varlajeanmerman.

For more information or to purchase tickets for Varla Jean Merman's Little Prick, go to: sunshinecathedral.org/sunshine-cathedralcenter-for-the-performing-arts

HotspotsMagazine.com | 23

Wines/Champagnes

Valentine’s Day

GIFT

GUIDE

over 50 items I Recommend

By Scott Holland

Valentine's Day is one of my favorite holidays, as it celebrates love. Below, I have written about many items that I am sure your loved ones would appreciate. If you are single, then buy some for yourself. I wish everyone a wonderful Valentine's Day!

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1. La Crema 2019 Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir - $25 This Pinot Noir can be described as graceful, layered, and bold. Aromas of boysenberry, cherry, and sweet tobacco are followed by flavors of raspberry, blackberry, and cherry.

Perfect for celebrating another year with your lover.

2. Frappato Bell'Assai - $28.99 With a ruby red color with violet reflections, this wine hailing from Sicily radiates intense fruity notes of strawberry and cherry, together with floral hints of rose and freesia. On the palate it is fresh and fragrant with a soft tannin and a pleasant return of fruity notes. Grilled vegetables, cured meats, tasty fish dishes such as soups or even tuna sushi are its best food pair.

3. Château du Moulin-à-Vent Couvent des Thorins - $24 Rich aromas and flavors of ripe and juicy berry fruit, fresh strawberry and raspberry and a beautiful spiciness. A smooth and round mouthfeel with subtle tannins and a pleasant freshness. A very pure wine with a touch of laurel in the generous aftertaste.

4. La Crema Russian River Sparkling Brut Rosé - $45 Your love interest will swoon over the notes of white flowers, braeburn apple, and crushed oyster shell. Flavors of lemon meringue, wild

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strawberries, and fresh ginger shine through on the palate. A lively core of acidity is followed by a vibrant lingering finish.

5. Trentodoc Ferrari Rosé - $34.99 Established in 1902, Ferrari offers bubble lovers an unforgettable experience, thanks to their capacity to convey the Alpine terrioir in a glass of refreshing and tasty bubbles. Refined hints of wild strawberries and redcurrants, with a fresh sensation of hawthorn flowers, underpinned by a delicate note of crusty bread. The flavor of sweet almonds is supported by an acidulous vein that is extraordinarily appealing.

6. Ehlers Estate Valentine's Day Bundle $120 The 2017 Portrait represents Ehlers Estate as a perfect picture of the vineyards and their soil diversity. That is why they call it Portrait! With a medium to full body and dark red color, it delivers concentrated aromas of ripe red fruit, raspberries, cherries, cassis, and smoky notes.

7. Aperture Cellars 2019 Bordeaux Red Blend - $55 Deep ruby-purple in color, the nose bursts with lilac perfume, Morello cherries, cured meats, star anise, tar and a mineral undercurrent. The palate is pixelated and lifted with glorious perfume lingering on the very long finish 8. Justin Vineyards & Winery 2019 Right Angle - $35 Dry, full-bodied, with ripe dark fruit and red fruit accents on entry with vanilla, oak leading to a complex mid-palate showing more savory elements of dusty tobacco leaf and salumi. Purple floral accents lead to a moderately long, clean finish with firm tannins, sustained fruit along with dried herbs, camphor, black olive with oak, and barrel spice.

9.Scharffenberger Scharffenberger Brut Rosé - $29 Scharffenberger Brut Rosé Excellence is made by the méthode traditionelle process, where the wines are individually bottlefermented. It has brilliant rose gold bubbles, delicate berry fruit aromas, and a seamless texture that reveal the precision craftsmanship behind its classic expression.

It's both bold yet elegant.

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Valentine’s Day 10. Scout & Cellar Celebrate the Season Local Favorites Gift Set - $129 It's the perfect tasting flight or dinner pairing, for your upcoming Galantines festivities. An ideal match for date night or for your upcoming Valentine's dinner party, this set has the perfect roundup of wines for you to host your own wine tasting or look like a wine connoisseur with pre-planned dinner pairings!

This six-bottle gift set includes >>>>>

GIFTGUIDE - 2020 Bookbinder Cabernet Sauvignon (375ml) - 2020 Fieldhouse White Wine (375ml) - 2020 Middle Jane Cabernet Sauvignon (375ml) - 2020 Middle Jane Chardonnay (375ml) - 2020 Conte de la Terre Merlot (375ml) - 2020 Fieldhouse 301 Pinot Noir Barrel Select (375ml)

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11. Tenuta Luce Lucente Toscana IGT 2018 - $30 This is the second wine of Tenuta Luce's flagship wine, a 50% Sangiovese – 50% Merlot blend with contemporary style, immediate and great pleasure. With its deep, brilliant, ruby color, Lucente impresses for the cleanliness and intensity of its wild berry and jam bouquet, with highlights of tobacco light spices and a delicate toasted note. Measured, silky tannins provide a wonderful roundness and a persistent finish.

12. Shannon Family of Wines Buck Shack 2019 Pinot Noir - $35 This is the perfect blend of

sweet fruity flavors with a polished toasted oak finish. As it has concentrated cherry, raspberry, and dried herb flavors meld with warm, zesty spices and echoes of French Oak on the palate leading to a long, full finish.

13. Scout & Cellar 2021 Middle Jane Velvet Zinfandel - $37 Fruity and bold with notes of strawberry, chocolate-covered cherry.

This is a wine that has the plush, lush flavors of a Zin new to Scout & Cellar.

The wine fermentation stops naturally, leaving more natural, residual sugars to add a juicy sweetness to the final taste. Jammy, silky strawberry, chocolate and cherry burst through the glass for a Zin for fans of Paso Robles and bold, fruitier red blends.

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XOXOXO Technology 17. iLive's Portable Cordless Massage Gun - $69.99 - iliveelectronics.com With four intensity levels and interchangeable massage heads, a customizable massage is just a button away. Massage guns have been proven to help relieve sore muscles, improve movement and help with faster recovery times. So not only will you be able to kick back and relax, but your Valentine can get a custom massage at the same time.

18. Buddha Board - $17.95 for the Mini Buddha Board; $37.95 for the Original; and $27.95 for the Enso - Buddhaboard.com This is a screen-free tool that allows you to create unlimited designs while calming the mind one brushstroke at a time! Simply dip the brush in water and create on the board. When you are done watch as your design slowly evaporates and repeat the creative process.

A must-have mindful gift for adults and kids alike!

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14. Funcho, The Functional Chocolate Company - $7.49 a Bar - Funcho.co Sexy Chocolate - Chocolate Bar formulated to help promote intimacy. Natural Champagne & Berry Flavor, 60% Cacao.

Chocolate releases inhibition and unleashes sensuality by pairing a carefully selected blend of botanicals, vitamins, and amino acids with patented LibiFem® (a natural fenugreek extract), clinically shown to help promote feelings of intimacy, healthy female desire and experience. Use code "GIFTLOVE" for a free bar with any purchase.

15. Green Roads' CBD Chocolate Bar - $9.99 greenroads.com This bar offers an artisanal dark chocolate that is handcrafted in small batches by a local chocolatier and infused with 180 mg of CBD from Americanfarmed hemp. Green Roads is a brand that consistently scores high in customer loyalty, demonstrated by over 30,000 five-star reviews.

16. Sugar Plum's Chocolate Heart Pizza - $40 sugar-plum.com This is a unique treat that your Valentine is simply bound to fall head over heels for. Everyone comes with a wooden mallet, so they can feel free to break this heart into bite-sized bits knowing it'll never return the favor! Sugar Plum tops their 12ounce milk chocolate "pizza" with crushed pretzels, cookies, potato chips, candied chocolate gems, and a drizzle of white chocolate.

19. Raptic (formerly Defense by X-Doria) prides itself on crafting electronic accessories that fit seamlessly into your world. Everything they offer from their premium protective iPhone cases to their charging stations are built with the L.A. lifestyle in mind, combining sophisticated details with strong protection to elevate the concept of drop-proof accessories. iPhone 13 Case ~ NAPA -$79.99 - Rapticstrong.com At last, the first truly elegant crossbody iPhone 13 case for those on the go. Soft interior lining, rear pocket with a secure snap for up to 4 ID and credit cards. genuine leather in luxe pebble texture finishes on steel hardware, available in 4 designer colors, steel clasps and hardware, and adjustable and detachable leather strap 20. Cloudious9's Tectonic9 Grinder - $48 Cloudious9.com This marries the reliability & durability of a traditional grinder with an electronic dispensing mechanism to offer a perfectly fluffy grind.

21. Dip Device's EVRI 3-in-1 Dab and Vape Device $69.99 - Dipdevices.com This is a unique multi-functional consumption solution engineered and designed in a thoughtful way to allow for a wide variety of materials, using only one vaporizer.

22. The MeatStick Mini –$69.99 - TheMeatStick.com This is the newest high-tech wireless meat thermometer to make it easy to cook the perfect steakhouse quality steak, juiciest chicken and more!

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23. Atomic9 Vaporizer Cloudious9.com - $59.99 At the heart of the Atomic9 is a revolutionary and patent-pending "Dual Layer" heating technology that combines the vapor consistency of convection heating with the space and energy efficiency of conduction heating. It creates a hybrid heating process without the large battery and heating path requirement of a standard convection heating vaporizer, resulting in the smallest and most cost-effective convection heating vaporizer currently on the market.

24. MYRA Americana Crossbody Myra - $30 - allaboutmyra.com Designed to keep your hands free while keeping your phone safe and accessible, the Original Crossbody MYRA is lightweight, stylish and multifunctional.

Plus, no more dropping your phone thanks to the connected rope that makes this our favorite accessory!

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XOXOXO

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Health & Beauty 25. Factorfive's New Sheet Mask – $22 Factorfiveskin.com The ultra-cooling and calming facial mask feature a propriety blend of ethically derived adult human stem cell factors along with nourishing ingredients that help skin repair from inflammation, redness, and other skin concerns by working at the cellular level and restarting critical processes.

26. Hemp.co's Delta-8 Chewable Duo Set These chewables make for easy and convenient dosing on the go! Available in two great flavors, Black Cherry and Strawberry each pack has five tablets for a total of 125mg of Delta-8 THC. Gluten Free, Vegan, Organic and Non-GMO. 27. Reuzel RR Fine Fragrance Labarbashop.com This is a 50ml Spray Eau de Toilette, which is a light and refreshing perfume with an uplifting and citrus scent. Perfect for every man on the move, RR Fine Fragrance has top notes of spearmint and orange peel, middle notes of eucalyptus and mimosa flower and dry notes of cinnamon and sandalwood. Refined and mature scent. Very persistent, it lasts all day.

Valentine’s Day

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GIFTGUIDE

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Vitacost.com – This online retailer for health, beauty and wellness, carries everyday products to help someone with their beauty regime. Offering more than 40,000 items, this is a one stop shop to give the best gifts this Galentine's Day. 28. Burt's Bees Bee Mine Lip-Balm - $10.99 This will provide a natural soft, replenished and healthy look with a hint of color to achieve kissable-looking lips.

29. CocoRoo Beauty Roller - $9.79 This is a simple way to help eliminate fine lines. Tip: throw this product in the freezer for an added cooling effect.

30. Acure Seriously Soothing Under Eye Hydrogels - $3.99) This will soothe the appearance of dark circles around your undereye in just 15-minutes.

31. Activated You - $79 – Activatedyou.com Morning Complete - the ultimate way to fuel your body. It features ingredients such as prebiotics and probiotics that optimize your gut health, and energy nutrients from leafy greens that help you sail through the day without energy crashes.

Liquors

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32.

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32. Tequila Herradura Bottle Sizes: 750ml - Herradura.com Ultra Añejo Cristalino $59.99 This is an incomparable cristalino añejo tequila, produced in Jalisco, Mexico at Casa Herradura, the last true tequila-producing hacienda in the world. Made from handharvested agave and barrel aged to perfection, this premium añejo tequila undergoes a charcoal filtering process that creates a superior clear finish and unparalleled smoothness. Subtle notes of cooked agave, caramel, vanilla, wood, honey, dried fruits and toasted almonds.

33. Zyr Vodka- $27.99 - Zyrvodka.com This is one of the nation's top selling Russian made Vodka's. Based out of Miami, ZYR was created by David Katz. This award- winning Vodka has great reviews from Food and Wine, "and Wine Enthusiast.

34. Clonakilty Distillery Single Batch Double Oak - $49.99 This Irish Whiskey is matured in ex-bourbon casks and finished in virgin American oak, before finally being shaved and toasted in ex-red wine European oak casks. This full-bodied whiskey boasts fragrant aromas of soft spices and vanilla that lead to flavors of ginger and hazelnut. Its long finish is highlighted by vanilla sweetness and spices lingering on the palate.

35. Ballotin Chocolate Whiskey Chocolate Peanut Butter Cream Flavored Whiskey - $25 Inspired by a love of bourbon whiskey and a passion for chocolate, the result is an approachable whiskey that tastes like an expression of your favorite chocolate indulgences. Available in eight flavors, all of Ballotin's spirits combine the backbone, body, and base flavor of aged American whiskey with all-natural essences of classic and contemporary chocolate favorites.

36. Tequila Bribón Reposado - $24.99 Complex and sophisticated while being extremely approachable and easy to drink. Light straw in color, there are slightly woody notes, nuts and cooked agave.

Soft, balanced, smooth and creamy on the palate with notes of vanilla, dried fruit, and cooked agave.

37. Clonakilty Minke Gin $29.99 Inspired by the majestic Minke whales of the Atlantic Ocean, this Gin is made using various botanicals that grow wild along the shoreline adjacent to Clonakilty Distillery, which has been operated by the Scully family for nine consecutive generations. While in season, members of the Clonakilty Distillery climb the cliff along their shoreline to sustainably harvest the gin's signature botanical ingredient, Rock Samphire, by hand.

38. Palm Bay Drumshanbo Gunpowder Irish Whiskey Ceramic Bottle $45.

Slow distilled by hand in medieval copper pot stills with oriental botanicals and gunpowder tea, Gunpowder Irish Gin combines 8 pot still botanicals and 4 vapor infused botanicals in the oriental traditions of distilling.

The result is a delightfully fresh and rounded up front with citrus, juniper & spicy notes immediately evident.

Open your senses to the notes of juniper, Gunpowder Tea, meadowsweet and coriander.

XOXOXO 38 38 | |HotspotsMagazine.com HotspotsMagazine.com

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Misc.

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39. Manta Sleep Mask PRO - $89 Mantasleep.com This is the most advanced sleep mask on the planet, and features true 100% blackout for deeper sleep, C-shaped eye cups for unbeatable side sleep comfort, and zero pressure on the eyelids or lashes.

Uncompromisingly engineered for side sleepers, the PRO's eye cups sit completely flat against your temple without sacrificing eye space. So, there's nothing between your head and your pillow.

40. Addicted USA's Long Jogging Pants - $75 - AddictedUSA.com Long sports pants made of finest Italian fleece. 50% Cotton - 50% Polyester. Addicted vertical print tone on tone, two side pockets and one little back pocket with rainbow tape detail on the back pocket.

41. Forever Linked's Personalized Square Keyring with Leather Strap - $95 fureverlinked.com Sculpted photo keyring attached to a luxurious Italian full-grain pure aniline black leather strap that ages with a rich patina over time. Brushed sterling silver plated finish.

Each piece is handmade to order, so please allow 1 week for the creative process.

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42. 4-Piece Craft Bar Set – Bronze - $64.99 Abarabove.com This core kit includes the three tools you need to make most common cocktails: a trusty twopiece Boston shaker, a Hawthorne strainer with extra-tight spring and a two-sided Jigger with measurement lines all the way down to 1/4 oz!

43. Maisie Lane Journals - $25 Maisielane.co Their environmental policy begins with their journals as they chose to use faux leather over real leather because they do not agree with leather practices, and it has only 1/3 of the environmental impact. It reduces the need for water, chemicals, and waste. Their journals have 192 pages so that they last longer, and they only use biodegradable and/or recyclable packaging. Each journal has a paper belly band, can be personalized.

HotspotsMagazine.com | 41

44. Cali Weights - $50 - Caliweights.com This is a brand-new chic weighted bracelets that come in a ton of fun colors to help you look and feel your best.

These versatile, durable and stylish bracelets each weigh ¼ pound, and are meant to mix and match. Each bracelet is made of high-density moldable iron and covered with hand-soft silicone that is water and sweatproof.

45. Headache Hat - $39.99 - Theheadachehat.com Help sooth that savage ache where and when it hurts the most with the Headache Hat Wearable Ice Pack.

Designed by a migraine sufferer, the Headache Hat features a patented flexible wrap design that can be positioned in just the right spot to target your pain. It even helps with sore muscles or injuries to combat inflammation 46. Aletha Health Hip Hook - $159.99 Alethahealth.com Feeling achy from sitting at a desk all day or amping up your fitness goals? This is the first tool designed to specifically release tension in the muscles that can cause those pains! Just a few minutes a day with the Hip Hook can provide long-term pain relief to the lower back, hips, tailbone, knees, and feet.

47. Honeydew Sleep - $99 - Honeydewsleep.com Ensure you and your loved ones are getting the best sleep EVER with Honeydew Sleep pillows. Between side, travel, and body pillows, they have the comfiest product to rest your melon. From its customizable design to it made in America origin story, this pillow has been meticulously crafted to help you get a better night's sleep.

It even has a copper infused foam fill that has naturally antibacterial properties and keeps pillows fresh and cool night after night.

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XOXO

VALENTINE’S DAY GIFT GUIDE 42 | HotspotsMagazine.com

Valentine’s Day GIFT GUIDE

Other Items!

XOXOXO

To read about these gift ideas, visit us online at Hotspotsmagazine.com or scan the QR Code

Top to Bottom, Left to Right: 48. Nero di Avola Appassimento • 49. Carthago Nero d'Avola • 50. Moscato Vento di Mare • 51. La Crema 2019 Monterey Pinot Noir • 52. Blazing Saddles Western Cologne • 53. Celestial Silk Pillow Cases • 54. Sok-It's JavaSok • 55. Heylo Create's Loud CBD Lube • 56. “Committed: Finding Love and Loyalty Through the Seven Archetypes” • 57. Reposado • 58. “Peace” • 59. IBKUL Space Dye Mini Grid Waffle Knit Pullover.

HotspotsMagazine.com | 43

Photo: flickr

By Romeo San Vicente

Cate Blanchett Teams Up with Pedro Almodovar Academy Award winner Cate Blanchett (fun fact: she was the first actor in history to win an Academy Award for portraying another Academy Award winner, Katherine Hepburn) will star in Pedro Almodovar's first English-language feature, "A Manual for Cleaning Women." The film will adapt Lucia Berlin's collection of short stories of the same name. The project is in the early stages of development, so Blanchett

is the only casting news so far. But consider this: "Manual" features over 40 stories of women involved in an extensive variety of jobs. And Almodovar is legendary for his expansive all-woman casts. If he decides to incorporate even a fraction of the book's stories into one script, this is going to be a who's who of amazing actresses.

More to come on this one as the roll call unfurls.

NIA LONG AND LILI REINHART ADD UP TO "PLUS/MINUS" Wanuri Kahiu is a lesbian director to watch. The rising star, born in Kenya, whose indie romance "Rafiki" was a hit at queer film festivals all over the world, has a Hollywood debut coming soon. It's called "Plus/Minus," with a first-time script from April Prosser ("Southland"), and it stars Luke Wilson, Nia Long, and queer "Riverdale" star Lili Reinhart. The story involves a young woman named Natalie, who, as she is

Photo: wikimedia

Pedro Almodovar

Cate Blanchett

Wanuri Kahiu

Photo: wikimedia

ROONEY MARA STEPS INTO AUDREY HEPBURN'S SHOES A biopic of Hollywood legend Audrey Hepburn is in development at Apple, starring Rooney Mara, with "Call Me by Your Name" filmmaker Luca Guadagnino directing a script from "The Giver" co-screenwriter Michael Mitnick. Plot details are unknown right now, so it's yet to be seen if the

Photo: Flickr

about to graduate college, finds herself thrown into parallel realities. In one life course, she becomes pregnant and chooses motherhood and smalltown Texas life. In the other she moves to Los Angeles and pursues a career. We're big "Sliding Doors" fans here (who isn't?) and this feels like it might be the update we've been craving. And while we don't know if the character of Natalie is written as queer, it would kind of be icing on the cake.

Ryan Kwanten

project will take the direct chronology approach, or distill Hepburn's essence in a more specific and limited time frame from her life and career. And what a life and career to mine. She won the Oscar, the Emmy, the Grammy, and the Tony for work in classic films like "Breakfast at Tiffany's," "Charade," and "Sabrina," and she spent her free time devoted to humanitarian work with UNICEF. Mara, meanwhile, not only looks the part, but has been nominated for an Oscar twice herself.

She'll do the role justice and look great in all that Givenchy. We're ready.

Rooney Mara

OCTAVIA BUTLER'S "KINDRED" IS COMING TO FX The late science fiction author Octavia E. Butler, the groundbreaking Black, lesbian

Hugo Award winner and MacArthur Fellow, is about to become part of the lineup on FX. Butler's 1979 novel, "Kindred," has been ordered to series by the network.

Adapted and written by Branden Jacobs-Jenkins ("Watchmen"), the eightepisode arc will follow a young Black woman and aspiring writer (played by newcomer Mallori Johnson) who discovers secrets about her family's past when she time travels between the present and a 19th century plantation. It's there she learns the truth about where she came from and who her family is. The cast includes Micah Stock ("The Right Stuff"), Gayle Rankin ("GLOW"), Austin Smith ("Random Acts of Flyness"), Antoinette Crowe-Legacy ("Godfather of Harlem") and Ryan Kwanten ("The Oath").

Butler's body of work is extensive, so the well is deep here, and if this series hits with audiences, there's so much more to be explored on screen.

Romeo San Vicente is ready to time travel and become Bram Stoker's boyfriend.

HotspotsMagazine.com | 51

The Florida Renaissance Festival th

Presents Its Spectacular 30 Anniversary Celebration

For three decades, patrons of the Florida Renaissance Festival have traveled back in time to become the Villains, Vikings, Pirates, and Heroes of age-old legends. As the incredible family-friendly festival prepares to open to new audiences in 2022, it brings with it a magical allure for one and all. Fantastic weekends scheduled for its 30th anniversary celebration at Quiet Waters Park in Deerfield Beach, February 5th through March 20th will be nothing short of spectacular!

In 2022, the Kingdom will be graced by returning favorite acts alongside completely new performances guaranteed to entertain and delight festival patrons. The extensive village is an experience in time travel, greeting 54 | HotspotsMagazine.com

fans with jousting knights, harmonious melodies, wicked wenches, magicians, and more. A feast made for a King or Queen of favorite food and drink await hungry travelers dressed for celebration, as do the numerous paths leading to artisan craft shops, live music, jesters and much more.

"Lords and Ladies" don your attire and become part of a bygone era of the 16th century as the festival hosts SEVEN magically themed weekends for your enjoyment and entertainment!

So much to do, see, and remember, the 30th annual Florida Renaissance Festival promises to be an event unlike any other. Your imagination will be captured, as time is turned back for a memorable, magical, mythical experience. (But don't forget to snap those selfies!) Wild entertainment will make you feel you're in a movie while live music, hearty themed foods, and quenching drinks for all to enjoy safely will be available.

"For 30 years we've provided South Floridians with a Renaissance experience unlike any other, where fans can commemorate their favorite time periods and myths of cultures," says Bobby Rodriguez, founder, and producer of the Florida Renaissance Festival. "This will be a very special anniversary for everyone involved, with lots of surprises! So, get ready to dress up in your favorite period garb, wield your magical wand, and rejoice with us."

Recognized across the country for setting the standard of exploring facets beyond the Renaissance, the festival treats patrons to the magic of sailing on the high seas with Vikings and Pirates, while incorporating new, exciting experiences each year.

For a full list of the themed weekends, entertainment, returning favorites or to purchase tickets, go to Hotspotsmagazine. com or scan the QR Code here >>>>>>

HOT Puzzle DOWN

ACROSS

1 Sports bra "model" Mia 5 Lip service?

9 Greeting for Dolly 14 Top draft level 15 Rainbow, to some 16 Heep of fiction 17 Wins with bodies pressed together 18 ___ Mae Brown 19 With 60-Across, she called herself the luckiest broad 20 Start of a quote from 19Across 23 Half a laugh 24 Place where a Greek would speak 25 Dykes on Bikes, e.g.

27 Expat who could hold her beer?

28 Rosie's Broadway musical 31 Byron and others 32 Sales people

33 Words before "small world" 37 Paul Newman role in "Exodus" 38 More of the quote 41 Speed meas. of a Johnny Mathis record 42 River of Flanders 44 R.E.M.'s "The ___ Love" 45 Midwest hub 47 Dancer Irene 49 Try to put a restraint on 50 Closing number on Broadway 53 Letter to Lorca 54 Man-mission connector 55 End of the quote 60 See 19-Across 62 Alec of "Desperate Housewives" 63 Field of study 64 "Good ___" (Young Rascals hit) 65 Porter's regretful miss 66 Young lady 67 Many go down on them 68 Penetrate the cracks 69 Maneuver slowly

>>>>>> To see answers, visit hotspotsmagazine.com/crossword 62 | HotspotsMagazine.com

1 Arizona tribe 2 Short drawers?

3 Williams' glass animals 4 Bone near the ear 5 Land of Margaret Cho's ancestors 6 Top's betting phrase?

7 Finland's queer rights org.

8 Problem for a drag queen's hosiery 9 Greek balls 10 It may come before long 11 Like a ballerina 12 "See ya" 13 "But of course!"

21 Adolf's intimate Rohm 22 Use a rubber 26 "Of God," of Gaius 27 More than tickle 28 Cary of "An Affair to Remember" 29 Beat off 30 Beatles manager Brian's nickname 34 Eatery in Armani's land 35 Legs, at times 36 Pt. of USA 39 Hirschfeld's flowers 40 Gimcrack (var.)

43 Sometime label of David Bowie 46 Leaves of grass, e.g.

48 Straights, to PlanetOut? 50 Birdcage dwellers 51 Words before water 52 Easily screwed 53 Fastener on a drag queen's pearls 56 Israeli author Oz 57 Sib of David on "Six Feet Under" 58 Photographer Catherine 59 Larry Kramer's alma mater 61 Cash for an actor between parts?

HOTSPOTS

Hotties

Photos by Dennis Dean • Interview by Scott Holland

Meet Cover Models

Tavarius 36 • Scorpio • African American

What city you live in?

Oakland Park Are you Single or married?

Single What’s your perfect date?

Going to the beach and chillin’ What do you do for a living?

I am a waiter at Hamburger Mary’s Wilton Manors, but looking to break into acting.

What do you do for fun?

I go to the gym, and I write. Since I am an actor I also like entertainment and music.

What does the future hold for you?

In the near future I hope to be certified as a personal trainer and get more acting gigs. >>> c/tavariusgraves 64 | HotspotsMagazine.com

Wesley 25 • Aries • Puerto Rican

What city you live in?

South Beach Are you Single or married?

Single What’s your perfect date?

Take me out, surprise me and make sure there is plenty of food.

What do you do for a living?

I am a bartender at Twist What do you do for fun?

My favorite thing to do is workout What does the future hold for you?

I studied film and I hope to have a future in front of the camera. >>> c/wesleyescobarnunez HotspotsMagazine.com | 65

By Maria Espinal

1

2

3

4

1. Armory Art Center 811 Park Place • West Palm Beach, FL 33401 561-832-1776 • armoryart.org Mon-Fri 9am – 5pm • Sat 9am – 12pm A historic site in WPB, provides art classes for artist of all ages and abilities, exhibitions, art salons, lectures, and special events. As of March11 through April, the center will presenting “Michelangelo's Sistine Chapel: The Exhibition.” The ceiling paintings from the Sistine Chapel have been reproduced in a truly unique way using licensed high definition photos accompanied by informative signage; audio guides are available to rent.

The visit takes around 60 to 90 minutes.

3. School of Mindfulness & Sound Healing 1501 NE 4th Ave • Fort Lauderdale, FL 33304 954.641.8315 • meditateyou.me School of Mindfulness is a Global Brand offering courses and workshops for the mind and soul. They do offer some online programs, even though not all are fit to be taken online, including Beginner videos and Meditate 101 for those just starting out. Besides meditation, they offer mindfulness and sound healing courses to guide you through the use of Crystal Singing Bowls, Gongs, Drums and other instruments for Sound Baths, Sound Healing and Sound Nidra.

2. Frudeco 8212 NE 2nd Avenue • Miami, FL 33138 786.569.4450 • frudeco.com Just in time for Valentine's Day, Frudeco is an artistic concept in fruit décor for any occasion. Whether heartshaped cake, numbers, letters, cupcakes or fruit sushi rolls, you can't go wrong with their beautifully decorated pieces to make a memory with your significant other.

Ingredients include: Fresh fruit, Dairy products, Soy, Eggs, Wheat, Nuts, Peanuts, Almonds, Corn. All orders will be delivered daily between 9am to 6pm 6 days a week. Delivery time will be a minimum of 24-48 hours from the time of booking. Check them out online or visit their location to place order. Happy Vday!

4. Everglades Holiday Park 21940 Griffin Road • Fort Lauderdale, FL 33332 954.906.7098 • evergladesholidaypark.com Daily 9am – 4pm What better way to enjoy our beautiful days than to be outdoors in an airboat? With fast speeds up to 60MPH, fresh air, and tons of excitement, airboat tours of the Everglades keep the whole family energized with some of the best sightseeing in Florida. Tours last 60 minutes; each airboat comfortably seats up to 25 people. If you're more of a thrill-seeker, the adrenaline-charged experience on an airboat and getting up close and personal to live alligators in the wild is indescribable. Enjoy the ride!

72 | HotspotsMagazine.com

By Maria Espinal

Phat Boy Sushi 4100 N Federal Hwy • Ft Lauderdale, FL 33308 954.533.4218 • phatboysushi.com • Mon-Sun 11:30am - Midnight Phat Boy Sushi Kitchen & Bar delivers a modern twist on Japanese comfort food catering to everyone. Their prices are reasonable and competitive, but what make Phat Boy Sushi different is the fun and attractive ways they have to present their food. From their New Tokyo Street Fries to their Miso Salmon Tataki; plus their Chicken Karaage and Poké Lettuce Cups, new items added to their menu for ‘22, all you have to do is check their social media pages and you will be game for Phat Boy Sushi. Oh, don't forget to check out their menu for a delicious cocktail!

Chica Miami 5556 NE 4th Court • Miami, FL 33137 786.632.7725 • chicarestaurant.com • Mon-Thu 11am-4m & 4pm11pm • Fri 11am-4pm & 4pm to close • Sat 11am-4pm & 5pm to close • Sun 11am-4pm brunch & 5pm -10pm Chica delivers the robust and vibrant flavors of Latin American cuisine. Chica’s menu was crafted by celebrity chef Lorena Garcia and draws influences from Venezuela, Peru, Brazil, Mexico and Argentina, among many others. Some of their menu highlights are: Pepita Crusted Lamb Rack, Paisa Breakfast Bowl, Churrasco Steak, Pan Roasted King Salmon and a delicious Rum Caramel Sticky Bun. Reservations are suggested.

Lola 41 Palm Beach 290 Sunset Ave • Palm Beach, FL 33480 561-599-5652 • lola41.com • Tue-Sun 11:30am – 2pm • Sun-Thur 5pm – 10pm • Fri & Sat 5pm - 11pm All aspects of the restaurant have been influenced from the countries and regions that the 41st parallel crosses through, from its decor and atmosphere, to its culinary delights and bar libations.

You can have access to their menu on their website, as well as ordering online. Highlights from their menu: Cantonese-style pork pot sticks, king crab rangoon, grilled king salmon lo mein and the Lola pekin duck. Service dogs are allowed.

Padrino's 801 S. University Dr, J-105 • Plantation, FL 33324 954.519.4969 • padrinos.com • Tue-Thur 11:30am-9pm • Fri 11am10pm • Sat 12pm-10pm • Sun 12pm-9pm Padrino's is a family owned and operated restaurant for 3 generations. How about some Ropa Vieja (shredded beef), Lechon Asado (pork), Palomilla (breaded steak) or some Picadillo (ground beef) served with ripe plantains, yuca frita and rice and beans? You can’t go wrong with a Pan con Bistec, Lechon or Sandwich Cubano.

Padrino's offers catering or private dinning for your next event!

76 | HotspotsMagazine.com

those connections aren't visible.

COVID-19's invisible contagion forced community members to move apart for safety at the very time when so many people want to re-connect and support one another. Our Gala al Fresco will allow community members to feel safe even as they come back together."

Co-founder Rafaelé Narváez, the agency's Director of Health Programs, added, "A seated dinner at a table in the round indoors would put us all face to face, raising COVID risks. Until the massive wave of COVID-19 omicron passes, we had to reboot our Gala. We'll have all of the excitement, along with a healthy breeze circulating under the tents.”

Latinos Salud to Host Gala al Fresco Feb 19th & 20th This OUTDOOR event will create a safe space for celebration, with participants choosing either of the two dates to attend Just as the non-profit LGBT health agency, Latinos Salud, was preparing to announce its return to an annual, indoor Gala fundraising event, the omicron variant of COVID-19 swept the U.S. "Latinos Salud's entire mission is community health," said Executive Director, Dr. Stephen Fallon. "We had to re-design the whole event so that those two words – community and health-- wouldn't be in conflict."

Fallon added, "The past two years have shown us that we're all connected as a community, even when

82 | HotspotsMagazine.com

Latinos Salud's "Gala al Fresco" will be offered twice, with the goal of spreading participants out over two different event dates. When guests register, they will pick their date, choosing to attend either the Saturday evening cocktail party on February 19th or the Sunday brunch on February 20th.

Both events will be staged outdoors on the large lawn at Latinos Salud's Wilton Manors location, under tents with good ventilation. Guests are encouraged to wear masks when not actively eating or drinking.

Passed hors d'oeuvres will give each guest the freedom to eat wherever they feel safest. With seven courses, it will add up to a Gala-sized meal.

Entertainment will include the inspiring vocal talents of Jimmie Herrod, and the feel-good funk of the retro soul band, Soul Scratch. Herrod, a 2021 America's Got Talent finalist and winner of the golden buzzer, will sing live. The six-piece band, Soul Scratch, will send a video postcard, recorded live especially for the Gala's guests, with funky horns and front man Dale Spollet's powerhouse vocals.

Community members are advised to get tickets early, as each day's count of attendees is capped for safety. Tickets are $150 for regular tickets, and $200 for VIP

tickets, until February 11th, when prices will rise to "door rush" levels, $175 for regular and $225 for VIP tickets.

VIPs will enjoy a meet and greet photo opportunity with Jimmie Herrod and will receive an upgraded "Benefit in a Box" before the event, delivered to their home or office.

"Whether you come dressed to impress for the Saturday night cocktail lawn party, or don bow ties or bright colors for the Sunday brunch, everyone can expect to enjoy food, open bar, live music, videos, and a silent auction at the Gala, and most of all, the chance to re-connect outdoors with friends," said Board Chair Dr. Franco Chevalier.

Ticket purchases will be placed through the Florida AIDS Walk. The Walk's sponsor, AHF, is generously matching the price of all ticket purchases. Tickets can be purchased at latinosSalud.org.gala.

HotspotsMagazine.com | 83

HotspotsMagazine.com | 85

By Tom Bonanti

HOW TO CUT MORE CALORIES, EAT HEALTHY

AND STAY SATISFIED!

Cutting calories can be an exhausting chore. Spending longer hours in the gym grinding out cardio or pumping more and heavier weights are a couple of options.

These measures often result in overtraining or burnout awfully fast.

Why not start with some easier and more practical ways to torch those unwanted calories and fat. Here are a few suggestions:

94 | HotspotsMagazine.com

1. DRINK up before eating. Did you know that the body often confuses thirst for hunger? This makes it easy to down a few hundred calories with mindless eating when all you need is a glass of H2O! Keep a water bottle with you all day and stay hydrated.

Also, have a glass of water or two before each meal to fill you up and keep your appetite under control.

2. START your day off with whole fresh fruit.

Instead of a glass of juice at breakfast, opt for a whole orange, apple, a few melon slices, or

makes a yummy substitute for rice. When boiling pasta, go for less noodles and toss some chopped vegetables into the water during the last few minutes of cooking.

a cup of berries. Fruit juices contain a greater concentration of sugar and thus more calories than whole fruit without the healthy pulp and fiber. Instead of drinking an 8-ounce glass of orange juice for 122 calories, you can eat the whole fruit for just 69 calories and benefit from 3-5 grams of healthy fiber.

3. TRY some creative swapping when preparing meals. Going vegan is commendable, but most guys need their meat. So instead of doing without, try cutting back a little and save some calories and fat. When making burgers, meatloaf or meat sauce, try replacing some of the ground beef with chopped

4. EAT healthy, satisfying snacks. Making it from one meal to the next can be a struggle once you're hungry. Instead of eating quick, handy junk, treat each snack like a mini-meal.

Choose items that have a good balance of protein, unsaturated fat, and fiber rich carbohydrates. Go for hummus with chopped vegetables, apple slices with almond butter, or yogurt topped with a few nuts.

5. STAY active at work. It's great when you can budget time for the gym, but sometimes this is impossible. The solution is to do things at work to burn more calories and stay fit.

Walk to work if you can. Park farther away from your destination at work or when running errands. Take the stairs whenever you can. Take a brisk walk or do some push-ups and crunches during your break times.

veggies like mushrooms, carrots, zucchini, or eggplant. They have the same meaty texture and taste and contain a lot less calories than meat and no saturated fat.

You can do the same with carbs. Try using a mix of half potatoes and rutabaga when you make mashed potatoes. Cauliflower

Tom Bonanti is a certied tness trainer and massage therapist (MA#40288) with his own one on one gym in Ft. Lauderdale. Contact trainertomb@aol.com with questions or to set up a free tness consultation.

HotspotsMagazine.com | 95

By Mike Jeknavorian

Brett Annis

Box Office Director at Hard Rock Live Brett Annis, the new ticketing director for the Hard Rock Live in Hollywood, Florida, discusses life in the world of live shows and sporting events.

What's your claim-to-fame?

I'm the new ticketing director for the Hard Rock Live, but I've been managing ticketing in South Florida for almost 25 years.

Where did you grow up?

In South Miami. Specifically, in the Kendall area.

How long have you lived in South Florida?

I've lived here my entire life, except for college.

What part of South Florida do you live in now?

Plantation.

Since you don't live in Kendall anymore, do you miss anything about it?

Yes, being able to drive around without any traffic (laughs).

What do you like most about living here?

That I'm near friends and family.

Where do you hang out in South Florida?

If I go out, it's mostly to The Drive.

What South Florida venue do you miss that's gone?

The Miami Arena.

If you had to live somewhere else other than here, where would you live?

In New York City or London.

Which one of your old jobs least prepared you for what you do now?

My first job—I Managed inventory for a glass company.

Who's your favorite band?

U2.

100 | HotspotsMagazine.com

What's the best concert that you ever saw?

I've seen U2 fourteen times. The energy of their performance is so infectious.

Who's your favorite sports team?

For college, the Florida Gators. For professional teams, the Miami Dolphins.

What's the best sporting event that you ever saw?

The Gators BCS National Championship in 2008, because it was in my stadium.

What show sold out the fastest?

Billy Joel. He sold out in ten minutes.

How do you come up with the ticket prices for each show?

It's based on the market demand.

What's been the most expensive ticket so far?

The Rolling Stones. Their top price was

$1000.

Of all the years that you've worked in box offices, what was the biggest mistake that ever happened?

When a group had fake tickets, and I had them ejected from the stadium because my ex-wife and kids showed up with the real tickets for those seats.

What's been the most nerve-wracking show that you ever had to reconcile?

A show for a certain famous sitcom star.

What road manager was the most difficult to work with?

The one for that certain famous sitcom star (laughs).

What's the best act that you've ever booked?

One that we're working on right now; however, I can't disclose it at this time. That show will be the best.

What act would you love to see at the Hard Rock?

U2!

What celebrity did you act like a "fan" around?

When we had Real Madrid at the stadium,

Cristiano Ronaldo. Out of 70,000 people in the stadium that night, I walked out with his signed, sweaty gameworn jersey. So, in theory I have his DNA in my home!

What celebrity that you met was not what you pictured?

Most artists that you see backstage look completely different with no makeup on.

What makes the new Hard Rock Live venue state-of-theart?

The last row in the second balcony is only 163 feet to the front of the stage. Every seat is great, and the acoustics are high quality.

What's the weirdest question that a customer's asked you?

"Can I bring my service racoon into the show?"

What did you do for work when the Hard Rock was closed?

I worked at Fresh Market. I found my retirement job ten years in advance.

What would your drag name be?

Comps Galore.

What would your autobiography be called?

That's the Ticket.

What do you want to live long enough to see?

The Dolphins winning a Super Bowl.

What's on your bucket list?

To travel to Antarctica and the South Pole.

Where can we see you?

At the Hard Rock Live on show days!

HotspotsMagazine.com | 101

Love The Skin You're In: 28 QUOTES FROM

By Jameer Baptiste How do you love the skin you're in when the world tells you're not refined? You're not beautiful. You're not worthy. You're not whole. You're not smart. You're a thug. You're dispensable. You're less than human. How do you keep from breaking? Wanting to wash away the skin you're in.

A month made to celebrate your kind represents a month that revisits

the trauma of your chackled and chained ancestors, which in turn breeds trauma within. But still you persist. You walk the line of the burden that was handed to you at birth.

Shared words of resilience that carry us forth from 28 minds, bodies, and souls of Black Excellence during the month of our celebrated culture, Black History Month. In these words, we rise in love and understanding.

Elimination Deep South Onyx “You're built with the spirit of perseverance. Resistance and change aren't new to our vocabulary, they're embedded within.”

Donald Gunder COO, Vice President of Afro Pride “We need in every community, a group of angelic troublemakers.”

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Carla Remington Afro Pride Advisory Board “Make sure that incorporating excellence in one's life is a habit not a singular act.”

Lorenzo Robertson Ujima Men's Collective Executive Director “I live my life in the light and not in the shadows. I want my life to illuminate the possible by living authentically, purposefully, and intentionally Black in all facets of my life.”

Kishi Martin Health Promotion Peer Navigator "There is no better moment than the present to reclaim my time.”

Tatiana Williams Executive Director of TransInclusive Group.

“I often tell people the key to success is knowing your worth.

The most valuable virtue is the love that one has for themselves.

You have the full authority to control the narrative of your life.”

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Adrianna Tender HRC (Human Rights Campaign) Board of Governors “Be a bush if you can't be a tree. If you can't be a highway, just be a trail. If you can't be a sun, be a star. For it isn't by size that you win or fail. Be the best of whatever you are,” by MLK. Ederick E. Johnson MSM Coordinator “Every day I serve and give everything of me to my community, so when the time comes for me to die, I will die knowing I've given everything in me .... I want to die empty.”

Anthony Winn Anthony Winn Entertainment “Black Excellence is not an act. It's a HABIT!”

Nik Harris Director of Strategic Outreach and Engagement for the Human Rights Campaign “I'm thankful to be living my best life and reminding folks that every day is a celebration of Black history. What we do today is history tomorrow. Make it worthwhile.”

“Love The Skin You're In: 28 Quotes From Black Excellence” are personal words of wisdom, strength and courage from empowered black and brown people who stand tall everyday even when life is on their back weighing them down.

Read the full “Love The Skin You're In: 28 Quotes From Black Excellence” series on our website at HotspotsMagazine.com. Engage in our social media salute to Black Excellence as we showcase the inspirational 28 Quotes From Black Excellence on each day for the month of February.

Hotspots! is committed to celebrating the joy that is Black Excellence. Join us for our first ever Black History Month event, The 108 | HotspotsMagazine.com

Cookout: A Black History Month Field Day Fundraiser on Saturday, Feb 5 from 1-6pm at The Pride Center at Equality Park. A day to celebrate black and brown culture with Food, Games, and Entertainment while also helping to build up the fractured race relations in Wilton Manors and giving back to nonprofits that advocate on behalf of the black and brown community.

You're Invited to The Cookout!

Love the Skin You’re In

The Cookout

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HotspotsMagazine.com | 115

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Waxing, facials, trimming, shaving and body scrubs at its best. Very friendly and relaxing experience.

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Reliable, honest, affordable general home repairs, pressure washing, painting, tile, light plumbing, light/ fan fixtures installs. Good troubleshooting. Insured.

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TV Wall mounting, Ceiling Fans, 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 and SHOWER GRAB BARS. K&J 954-260-9940 BEST PRICES IN TOWN! 32 Years Experience.

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Quality work at a reasonable price. We also service & install any size generator. Licensed & Insured (98-CME-1807-X). 954-257-9509.

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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.

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By Andreus Quinones

Dear Andreus, I have been dating this guy for over a year now. We are both vaccinated, though I am the only one with the booster shot. He insists on going out to the bars and with his friends all the time, and without a mask. It makes me very uncomfortable, because I feel as if it poses a risk to both of our well-being. Things have been difficult with us over the last few months because I won't go out with him, and now for that reason, he says he wants to break up. I don't know what to do. I feel like this is unreasonable. What are your thoughts?

Sincerely, Ainsley P. Dear Ainsley, First, let me say that though there are vaccinations and boosters, there are people fully vaccinated that are still contracting COVID. You are always completly justified in protecting yourself and exercise self-care. I would dare say that anyone who doesn't understand that may not care for you as deeply as you may have thought.

This might be an indication of what your future could look like in other situations within this relationship. If someone wants to leave, let them. You are making the decision to take care of yourself, so good for you. Never let anyone make you feel bad for that.

Stay healthy and stay safe!

Dear Andreus, I have been hooking up with this really hot guy. We have amazing sex, and I enjoy the instances that we meet up. Recently, he has been trying to steer us towards dating or a 124 | HotspotsMagazine.com

relationship. For me, there is a disconnect. I really like him, but outside of the sex, we have nothing in common. I find it even hard to engage him in meaningful conversation. I really don't want to hurt his feelings because I enjoy the sex so much, so I have no idea what to do. Should I tell him or not?

Sincerely, Fernando S.

“...I enjoy the sex so much,

so I have no idea what to do.

Should I tell him or not?”

Dear Fernando, Honesty, honesty, honesty. That is always my policy. Whether you address it now or not, it is bound to come up. If you were to get into a relationship with him, your connection or lack thereof would need to be addressed. You should most certainly get it all out in the open now. He could very well not be aware that this is an issue. He may not have been trying to do anything more than be a hookup. Talk about it, and expectations, as you should do when the idea of a relationship comes on the table. If he walks away, then maybe it wasn't meant to be.

Hope this helps.