Hotspots! July 21, 2022 (Issue 3715)

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 Joshua Duke — (754) 220-1581 Dale Stine — (305) 761-3253 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.

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Xtreme Action Park

July’s Pride Skate Night

Photos: Scott Holland

Flock Fest Beach Party

Photos: Robert Hadley

Neither Hair

Nor There

By S. Elfman

Hair loss can be a sensitive topic for men.

When men start losing their hair, they can either go with it or fight it.

Some choose to shave their head or just let their hair do its thing. Others look for ways to slow down the loss or cover up sparser hair spots.

Some techniques for the fight against baldness include pills, topical lotions, hair transplants or hair pieces. But where to start? Which would be the best treatment?

Hotspots spoke with local businesses who specialize in hair replacement to learn more.

Men’s Self-Care Special Issue “There are multiple medications, laser therapy, scalp injections with platelet rich plasma (PRP), vitamins, etc...”

Dr. Rafael Sierra, surgeon at Sierra Robotic Hair Institute in Fort Lauderdale, said that general,

environmental, and chemical damage can affect hair.

“For instance, harsh chemicals such as bleaching/dying hair can weaken the hair.

Stop using any product if you see a rapid change and hair loss,” he said, regarding hair loss prevention.

“When someone notices that they're losing their hair, the best thing to do is to

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Sierra Robotic Hair Institute 2151 E Commercial Blvd., Suite #204 Fort Lauderdale, FL 33308 954.776.0830 sierrarobotic.com

see a doctor that can explain and develop a strategy to slow down hair loss — early intervention is key,” he added.

Sierra suggests finding a physician that can explain the different kinds of treatments, as well as the cost and efficacy of each one of them.

“There are multiple medications, laser therapy, scalp injections with platelet rich plasma (PRP), vitamins, etc.,” he said.

“There's a lot of information and it can be confusing.”

Sierra is a board-certified surgeon with over 18 years of surgical experience and is known for his experience in robotic surgery.

Sierra offers individualized treatment plans unique to each patient, including hair transplants (robotic and manual FUE), platelet rich plasma (PRP) injections, micro pigmentation, IV therapy, medications, vitamins, and more.

“When you say you want your hair back, you want your full hair back and that doesn't usually happen with transplants.”

Lisa Nothardt, owner of Hair Solutions of Fort Lauderdale, creates handmade hair pieces for

men. When asked what men can do to slow down hair loss, she said they can try Biotin or work on their stress levels.

“Hair loss is caused by stress or genetics,” she said.

Regarding options for when the loss is significant, she said men can either go the medical or non-surgical route.

“Non-surgical is probably the most successful and most affordable of all,” she said.

She said transplants don't always take and can be very costly.

“When you say you want your hair back, you want your full hair back and that doesn't usually happen with transplants,” she said.

The licensed cosmetologist has been working in the hair replacement business for more than 25 years. She said, when it comes to custom made hairpieces, the pieces that are less thick look the most real.

“My opinion is less is more,” she said.

“Some people want more hair, but that isn't the most natural looking.”

Hair Solutions offers hair systems, hair pieces, hair replacement, cancer wigs and extensions and can help recreate your hairline and add density.

Hair Solutions of Fort Lauderdale 4390 N Federal Hwy., Suite #104 Fort Lauderdale, FL 33308 954.773.1700 hairreplacementnow.com HotspotsMagazine.com | 31

Treat Yourself:

At Home Mani & Pedi

By S. Elfman

Sometimes you don't have the time to go get a manicure and pedicure and have to make sure your paws look clean on your own time in your home.

Here are tips to keep your digits looking fresh and clean because no one likes dirty fingers and toes.

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Men’s Self-Care Special Issue

Fingers

Tools: Nail clippers or small nail scissors, nail file or emery board, cuticle oil, exfoliating scrub, hand cream.

Optional tools: nail buffer, clear or colored polish What to do: Wash and dry your hands.

Use your exfoliating scrub – bonus if it's a nice smelling one– and apply all over your hands and scrub them. This will soften calluses and remove ashy dead skin. Then rinse your hands.

Next, use nail clippers or small nail scissors to trim your nails; take your time.

Then, use your file or emery board to smooth the edges of your nails out. Don't forget to always file in the same direction.

After, use a little cuticle oil and moisturize your cuticles (the bottom of your nail bed) and then finish off with a small amount of hand cream and apply to your hands.

If you like, you can buff your nails to a shine with your nail buffer by rubbing it across your nails or add a clear or colored

polish. Polish not only adds a nice look, but also strengthens nails. For those who prefer an organic, natural vibe, nowadays there are several lines of vegan, non-toxic nail colors to choose from.

Toes

Tools: Nail clippers, cuticle oil, exfoliating scrub, foot cream Option tools: foot file or callus removing mask, foot powder, nail buffer, clear or colored polish What to do: Wash and dry your feet. This next step depends on the condition of your feet: If you have very little callusing and roughness – because you are doing this in between a professional pedicure or are just lucky – you can get away with using just an exfoliating cream to scrub off dead skin.

If you have thicker callusing, you should use a callus remover/foot file after you exfoliate your feet.

If you need to go the foot file/callus remover route, there are several tools to choose from. A foot file is the gentlest and probably safest. These look like paddles and typically are two-sided, with one side much

rougher. The less rough side is for the top of your feet and the rougher is better to use on the thicker skin on the soles of your feet.

Use this in a back-and-forth motion and you will get rid of your dead skin.

Other options include electric foot files and callus removing masks. If you have these tools, this is when you want to use them.

Note: There are callus removers that are a little more hardcore and almost have a cheese grater effect – but for feet. This should be avoided at home because you can hurt yourself/cut your feet and get an infection.

Next, wash your feet again.

Get those clippers ready and slowly cut those toenails to desired length. Take your time and be careful so you don't get ingrown toenails.

After you finish, grab a thick foot cream, and apply it to your now smoother, more attractive feet. If you want, you can follow up by shining up those toenails with a nail buffer or adding polish. Before you go out, you can add foot powder for extra freshness. Now go show off your pretty nails and toes!

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Alibi Monkey Bar

Miss. & Mr. Independence

Photos: Robert Hadley

July 15 (already out since this publication date is July 21)

Lizzo – “Special” Special, Lizzo's fourth studio album, will feature her latest single About Damn Time. She recently announced her tour The Special Tour with special guest Latto, which will kick off at the FLA Live Arena in Sunrise, Fla., on Sept. 23.

Summer is upon us once again and our favorite stars are providing the soundtrack. Grab the beach gear, some drinks and load up your playlist with these hot new tunes.

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ITZY – “Checkmate” Checkmate is Itzy's first release since their album Crazy in Love back in September.

The K-pop girl group will kick off its first world tour Checkmate in August and will perform in cities in the United States starting in October.

Interpol – “The Other Side of MakeBelieve” The Other Side of Make-Believe is Interpol's seventh studio album. The PostPunk band is going on tour starting in late August and released a single from the album Toni back in April.

July 22

Jack White - “Entering Heaven Alive” Entering Heaven Alive is Jack White's second studio album this year.

Fear of the Dawn, which was released in April, has a rock sound.

Entering Heaven Alive, out late July, will be a folk music record. The singer/actor, formerly of The White Stripes, The Raconteurs and The Dead Weather, released a single off the album If I Die Tomorrow on June 8. He is currently on tour and will perform in Miami and Orlando in late September.

She & Him – “Melt Away: A Tribute to Brian Wilson” Perhaps the perfect summertime release, She & Him's new Brian Wilson tribute album will feature the Beach Boy himself on their version of the song Do It Again. Zooey Deschanel and M. Ward, the She and the Him of She & Him, released the single Til I Die off the album on June 29, Wouldn't It Be Nice on June 1 and released Darlin' in mid-May. They are going on tour in September.

July 29

Beyoncé - “Renaissance” Bey released the first single Break My Soul off her highly anticipated seventh studio album Renaissance on June 21. Her previous

album, Lemonade, was released in 2016. She has released several singles since, including Be Alive from the film King Richard in November 2021 and Black Parade in honor of Juneteenth in 2020.

King Princess – “Hold On Baby” Hold on Baby is King Princess's second studio album after her debut Cheap Queen in 2019. She released the singles Too Bad and Cursed from Hold On Baby in early June and For My Friends in March. She is currently on tour and will perform in St. Pete this October.

Hayley Kiyoko – “Panorama” Hayley Kiyoko released For the Girls, her first single off Panorama, on May 20 and single Deep in the Woods on June 24. Her debut album Expectations was released in 2018.

She is kicking off her next tour, with special guest Lauv, in August.

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August 12

Danger Mouse & Black Thought – “Cheat Codes” The Roots' Black Thought has teamed up with Danger Mouse for his latest project. Cheat Codes, which features performances from Run the Jewels, A$AP Rocky, Kaewon and more. Their first single Gold Teeth came out on May 11 and the single Because, featuring Joey Bada$$, Russ and Dylan Cartridge, was released on June 7.

August 19

Demi Lovato – “Holy Fvck” Demi Lovato has been posting snippets from their latest album Holy Fvck since April, including a song called Happy Ending. This is Lovato's eighth studio album. Their previous album Dancing with the Devil... the Art of Starting Over came out in April 2021. The Holy Fvck tour, with special guests Dead Sara and Royal & the Serpent, will kick off in August, and includes stops in Hollywood and Tampa.

Madonna – “Madonna: Finally Enough Love: 50 Number Ones” In May, Madonna became the first and only recording artist to have 50 number one hits on any single Billboard chart after she topped the Dance Club Songs chart 50 | HotspotsMagazine.com 50 | HotspotsMagazine.com

for the 50th time She is celebrating the milestone by releasing two albums of her Dance hits – Finally Enough Love: 50 Number Ones, out on Aug. 19, and a 16track shorter version called Finally Enough Love, out now.

Panic! at the Disco – “Viva Las Vengeance” Viva Las Vengeance is Panic at the Disco/Brendon Urie's first album since 2018's Pray for the Wicked. The album was recorded with a tape machine. The lead single, also called Viva Las Vengeance, was released on June 1. The band will kick off a tour in September with special guests Marina and Jake Wesley Rogers with Beach Bunny, with stops in Sunrise and Tampa.

August 26

Blondie – “Blondie: Against the Odds: 1974 - 1982” This new Blondie Box Set Blondie: Against the Odds: 1974 - 1982 features remastered versions of their first six studio albums, 36 demos and the band's first recording session. This is the band's first ever box set.

Muse – “Will of the People” Muse released the title track of their new album Will of the People on June 1. This is the band's ninth studio album after 2018's Simulation Theory and they are kicking off a tour in October.

The Pub

Pet Project Swimwear Auction

Photos: Scott Holland

Live Healthier & Happier

With These Five Essentials

By Shannah Henderson

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Men’s Self-Care Special Issue

There's no doubt that taking steps to boost your everyday health and wellness is a major act of self-care. This is because if you live healthier each day, you will be much happier! And, luckily, there are countless outstanding products on the market that will help you amplify your everyday wellness.

Here is a quick roundup of five health essentials you will love. Even better, they can all be easily ordered online, so no need to take an inconvenient trip to the local mall!

1

Lower Stress & Sleep Better with the Manta Weighted Mask

Did you have a stressful week?

Stress and anxiety can both be detrimental to your sleep routine.

Ease anxiety & nap better than ever with the Manta WEIGHTED Mask. It is the only weighted mask designed, constructed and optimized for maximum relaxation in any environment. Created to combine the soothing power of gentle pressure with the sensory relief of 100% blackout, WEIGHTED is perfect for those who suffer from stress, anxiety, insomnia, tension headaches or migraines.

Gently pressing powerful relaxation points on your face alleviates tension and induces relaxation by stimulating the release of serotonin and melatonin, which calms your nervous system and primes your body for deep rest. With WEIGHTED, you get therapeutic

Pamper Yourself with the Walton Wood Farm Ultimate Dapper Gent Kit

Look, smell, and feel your best all year round with this fully loaded gift package. It features an assortment of products from Walton Wood Farm's best-selling collections: 2.5 oz The Gentleman Solid Cologne, 8 oz The Gentleman Creamy Shave Soap, 4 oz The Gentleman Hand Rescue, and 8 oz Men Don't Stink Soap Bar. The products are all cruelty-free, vegetarian/vegan-friendly, gluten-free, and free of any harmful ingredients.

This gift set is sure to be a hit!

Retails for $92 at waltonwoodfarm.com

2 pressure on the relaxation points around your eyes, but no pressure on your eyes — so you get the stress relief without the eye discomfort or blurry vision. Retails for $45 at mantasleep.com

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3 Make Your Car a Relaxing Oasis with the PURGGO Car Air EcoPurifier & Freshener

Having a smelly car only creates stress and anxiety — freshen up your ride with the minimalistic and all-natural PURGGO car air eco-purifier & freshener! It's made with pure and sustainable natural bamboo charcoal, which absorbs & eliminates odor instead of masking it. Fragrance& allergen-free, the PURGGO is all-natural, non-toxic, and 100% asthma and allergy friendly. All the product contains is pure allnatural moso bamboo charcoal, one of the most renewable

Eat Better & Feel Your Best With the Food You Love: That Loves You Back Cookbook

In this first-of-its-kind cookbook, Rorie Weisberg, CHC, packs in over 200 kosher recipes for the food you and your family already love, transformed to love you back – plus must-have health info and tried-and-true shortcuts that knock stress off its feet. Many recipes offer a few variations, like gluten-free, nut-free, egg-free, and even refined sugar-free, so that you can customize them to your and your family's preference. Also included are Rorie's tips on the basics on staying full and energized with healthful eating, menu planning advice, and insight on how to practically balance advance food prep with an on-the-go lifestyle. The book retails for $34.19 on Amazon. Visit fullnfree.com/cookbook for more info.

natural resources in the world and Mother Nature's purifier, which has been carbonized and activated at 1110°F - 1300°F (600°C - 700°C).

Bamboo charcoal is a tried and tested air cleanser that's been used in Asian countries for thousands of years. On top of this, it lasts for 365+ days (longer lasting than any product available worldwide) and works continuously in the background! Retails for $22.99 on Amazon.

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Enjoy "Me Time" with the Sweet Reads Box Monthly Book Subscription Service

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Sweet Reads Box is Canada's beloved monthly book subscription service that just launched in the United States. No matter what stage you are at in your life, time for yourself seems to get lost in the everyday.

Sweet Reads Box is your chance to relax and enjoy a great read, a decadent sweet, and a carefully curated item that ties to your novel. You can select a monthly subscription, or choose from the line's limited edition boxes or past boxes (which are all available)! The boxes will help you indulge in some much-needed "me time" after a long week! For more info, visit us.sweetreadsbox.com

Sunshine Cathedral

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Gay Men’s Chorus of South Florida

Photos: Robert Hadley

HEALTH, BALANCE & WELLNESS

SPECIALIZING IN :

Dr. Serge Gardere DO, AOBNMM, AOBFP, AAHIVS Proudly Serving the Wilton Manors Community

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Family Medicine HIV Medicine STD Testing & Treatment PreP Therapy Osteopathic Manipulative Treatment (OMT) • Trigger Point Injections • Nerve Blocks • Joint Injections • Prolotherapy

Dr. Serge Gardere is passionate about restoring optimal health and well-being through osteopathic medicine and is the founder of the Osteopathic Medical Arts Center of South Florida. Dr. Gardere treats all facets of somatic dysfunction, back pain, neck pain, neuropathy, and joint pain. Read his full bio at OMAC.life

1201 NE 26th Street. Suite #109 Wilton Manors, FL 33305

VISIT OMAC.life

954.381.7334

By Maria Espinal

Diya Miami 1766 Bay Rd. • Miami Beach, FL 33139 305.763.8948 • diyamiami.com Thu-Sun 6pm–10pm • Fri & Sat 6pm–10:30pm With an elegant décor, this vegetarian Indian eatery is familyowned and operated by the Maharaj family identified Indian cuisine that embraced the vegetarian and vegan movement. Chef Vidya Maharaj masterfully blends family recipes with healing ingredients at traditionally modern vegetarian Diya in South Beach's dining enclave of Sunset Harbour. Come in with your family and friends for a flavorful dinner experience or simply pop in for a happy-hour drink or two by their experienced mixologist.

Tavolino Della Notté 10181 West Sample Rd. • Coral Springs, FL 33065 954.509.0046 • tavolinorestaurant.com • Daily 11am–3pm Dinner Sun - Thur 3pm–10pm • Dinner Fri - Sat 3pm-11pm Tavolino Della Notté features contemporary Italian Cuisine with a menu and atmosphere guaranteed to exceed your expectations.

Their unique venue offers two separate atmospheres: the "restaurant side" and the "lounge" for live entertainment and happy hour Thursday-Saturday. Their menu offer many glutten-free options such as pizza, masala, lentil soup, mushrooms-stuff red pepper or cheeseburger. Tavolino also offers Brunch on Sat & Sun, at 11:30 am.

Malbec Grill 7351 FL-7 N • Parkland, FL 33073 954.775.0641 • malbecgrill.com Mon-Thu 12pm-10pm • Fri-Sat 12pm-11pm • Sun 12pm-10pm Malbec Grill offers a creative steakhouse menu influenced by Argentine and other Latin American cuisines, in an elegant and romantic ambiance. Get ready for premium seafood, handmade empanadas, creative salads, authentic pastas, scrumptious desserts, and innovative cocktails are a perfect complement to their meat and wine-centric menu. To highlight from their menu are the empanadas, cast-iron tenderloin, rack of lamb and pan sea bass, among others. Private dinning room for large groups is available.

La Perla Ceviches & Rolls 2219 N Commerce Pkwy. • Weston, FL 33326 • 954.389.8871 laperlacevichesandrolls.net • Mon–Thur 11:30am–9:30pm Fri–Sat 11:30am–11pm • Sun 11:30am–9:30pm La Perla Ceviches & Rolls is bringing innovative and delicious dishes to town with their array of options of many Peruvian traditional dishes. As you may know, peruvian ceviche is the best, La Perla offers 7 different options, hot & cold appetizers, salads, pasta, sushi rolls, five different soups and must-have desserts.

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International Mr. Leather 2022 Will Visit South Florida July 22-25

>>>>>

By Scott Holland

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Gaël Leung Chong Wo, won the title of International Mr. Leather 2022 on Memorial Day Weekend in Chicago, and hails from Merelbeke, Belgium. He competed at IML as Mister Leather Belgium 2020-2021.

When not in leather or attending leather events he is an architect and does interior design. Gaël and his husband have been together for 16 years and have two children, 20 and 23.

Gaël started #WeAreFetish project an online platform turned nonprofit organization that is focused on promoting inclusion within the fetish scene. He has also been a volunteer at Darklands in Antwerp, which has now become one of Europe's premier kink/fetish events.

He says that leather was something he started by trying on a pair of leather pants at Mr. B and it progressed from there with Darklands practically in his backyard. Today he even travels in full leather, but tries to be more casual on vacations. However, Gaël says he wears leather daily even if it's just a pair of pants.

It was a pleasure to sit down with Gaël for this exclusive Hotspots interview, just two weeks before his visit here to South Florida.

Did you have any idea as a kid that leather might someday be an interest of yours? If not, when did you get into leather?

I wasn't aware of any leather scene when I was younger. We lived in a poor multicultural neighborhood, where love for fetish was not present at all. I can't remember seeing guys wearing leather or biker jackets at all. It's at the age of 35, that I unexpectedly got in touch with fetish, and I made a first visit to a fetish shop, called Mister B Antwerp. By the end of 2015, I bought my first pair of leather pants. It was by trying these pants on, that the feel for leather became clear to me. Within 2 years I had a full leather outfit from Boots to muircap.

Before Mr. IML how many other leather contests did you enter and how many did you win?

Back in 2016 friends of mine told me to enter the Mister Fetish Boots Belgium

contest. The Boots Antwerp is a very wellknown fetish bar in Antwerp and I was more interested in the experience of doing something out of my comfort zone, and the interesting prizes for the top 3 that came with it, than really knowing what a Titleholder would have to do. Looking back at it, I am happy I ended up in 3rd place, because I wasn't ready for the responsibilities of a title, and definitely not ready in my fetish evolution. Months later, I was asked by members of my club MSC Belgium, why I didn't join the Mister Leather Belgium contest. I turned down the first time, and because they kept asking me again, 1 year later in 2020, it felt like the right moment to jump into this experience.

I won the title, at Darklands Antwerp, just 1 week before the world went into lockdown.

“...when they announce you the winner of IML, I don't think you ever get prepared for it, and it takes a while for everything to settle in.”

What made you enter Mr. IML? It's very common for titleholders of the world to participate at IML, although it's not compulsory for Mister Leather Belgium to enter the competition. But for me, after having my Belgian title for more than 2 years, due to the COVID pandemic, and with the feeling I couldn't do much during my reign, I decided to go to Chicago. I stepped down as Belgian Mister 3 weeks before IML, and to me it felt like a nice experience to end my Mister Leather Belgium career. In my case I went to IML to experience this big well organized international event, and never thought that I could actually win the contest.

Have you judged any Leather contests and if so did it help you in your preparation for MR IML? I have judged 3 Belgian titles, but they HotspotsMagazine.com | 79

weren't all Leather related but definitely had a connection with the fetish scene. I was part of Puppy Belgium 2022 panel, Mister Senakers Belgium 2022, and Mister Leather Chaps 2022. It sure did help my preparation for IML. By sitting on the other side, I realized, it's all about knowing a candidate, what they will do during their eventual title year, rather than a bunch of juries, waiting to ask you the most difficult questions. I was more calm and serene during the IML election, than I was at my Mister Leather Belgium contest?

What went through your mind when your name was called as International Mr. Leather 2021/22?

There are videos circulating, where you can see my face looking like “what?”. When David and Duke were announced second and first runner up, I immediately thought, it could be one of my European colleagues. But I never thought they would call out my name. My friend Stevio (Mister Leather Europe 2019), who was on stage with me, ran towards me screaming and cheering. You know, when they announce you the winner of IML, I don't think you ever get prepared for it, and it takes a while for everything to settle in.

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You just won approx. 6 weeks ago, how has it been so far?

It's been very busy since then. I remember coming back from the States and rushing to Paris Fetish weekend. No time to realize what really happened. No one sees the work that comes with the title, from planning, organizing, and booking events, flights and hotels. It's a back and forth of emails and messages with organizations from Michigan, Fort Lauderdale, to Australia, Norway, etc. They all want you to come to their Pride, or fetish event in the upcoming year. And besides that, I also try to work on my #WeAreFetish project to support inclusion within the Fetish Scene.

What do you want to accomplish during your title year?

I am still working on a masterplan to travel as much as I can. It's important for an International Mister Leather to try to show up at as many events as you can, and not only the ones I am used to in Europe. The IML office has been a great support so far to help me with understanding how the American fetish scene works. It's completely different than here in Europe. I also wasn't aware of major event dates in the States.

And I am very excited to travel back and

“

I wouldn't be where I am right now, if he wasn't there being supportive, and helping me making decisions when I'm in doubt.”

forth ( Fort Lauderdale, Miami, MML, MAL, CLAW, L.A. Leatherweek, etc.). After that I really would love to visit Taipei Pride, to support the Asian scene, but at this point with the current quarantine regulations it's still unsure I will be able to attend. I also have plans to attend Sydney World Pride in Australia. After the travelling I have major plans on working out my project and to collect funds and see how I could help the community as much as I can.

Have you thought about what you want to do after your title year is over?

I never expected to win IML, and after stepping down as Mister Leather Belgium, I created a Non-Profit Organization, together with my husband. It's called WeAreFetish. We had, and still have plans to bring the #WeAreFetish merchandise to the people, and with collecting funds, we would like to invest in inclusive events worldwide. The fetish scene might be a big family on the outside, but there is still a big job to do to include everyone, like women, trans, POC, Sportswear, and so on.

You have been with your husband for a

long time. How did you meet and what makes him the perfect guy for you?

We met almost 16 years ago through an online platform called Gaydar. We are very complimentary in what we do, and that's what probably makes us the perfect match. We have been working together for years now and set up our own Architect firm. People never understand the fact that we live, work, and travel together. We are together 24/7, and believe it or not, it works quite well for us. I wouldn't be where I am right now, if he wasn't there being supportive, and helping me making decisions when I'm in doubt.

Are your husband and 2 children supportive of your leather life?

Eddy, my husband, follows me in every step in this fetish journey. We stepped in this adventure together 6 years ago, and even if I may have developed the most interest into leather, he is an all-around fetish guy, who loves to travel and visit fetish events in and out of Belgium. The (not so) kids are now 20 and 22, and they are

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We asked some businesses about Mr. IML's visit and here is what they said: > From Bear Man Since 2007 LeatherWerks and the Fort Lauderdale Leather Community have hosted the winner of the International Mr. Leather Contest. It is one of the highlights of the Fort Lauderdale leather calendar. Each year our custom department creates a unique title vest for each IML winner. We are excited to bring the tradition back after a two-year hiatus because of the Covid epidemic. > From Ramrod Ramrod Bar is proud to support the Leather Community by helping pay for the annual visit of each International Mr. Leather Contest winner. It is always a special weekend when the current IML is in town! > From Inn Leather Inn Leather has been part of the annual International Mr. Leather Fort Lauderdale visit for well over a decade. We provide accommodations and host a pool party here at Inn Leather for each IML. > From Eagle The Wilton Manors Eagle was excited to be asked to join in on the annual IML visit to Fort Lauderdale. We are honored to host a reception for the 44th International Mr. Leather who is traveling to Fort Lauderdale from Merelbeke, Belgium. > From Milk Money Milk Money has a special partnership with LeatherWerks and the Leather Community. We look forward to hosting several dinners for the Leather Community each year. We are also looking forward to hosting International Mr. Leather 2022 and the Leather Community on Monday July 25th.

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fully supportive. They even were present at my election and stepdown at Darklands Antwerp, together with my mother and my siblings. I have to say, it was a very interesting interaction to have them at a fetish event.

Describe yourself in 3 words?

Curious, timid and perfectionist What do you do for fun?

When not travelling to fetish events, I love travelling to discover new cultures. We are big fans of Asia (Japan, Thailand, Korea, Malaysia).

When I'm home we like to go out for dinner. We are big foodies always looking for hotspots.

When the weather is good, you will probably find me somewhere in the fields riding my Harley.

Are you excited about coming to Fort Lauderdale?

Absolutely! It's always exciting to go to places I never visited before, even more when it's out of Europe. Except for my trip to Chicago and some NYC city trips in the past, I am looking forward to discover more of the United States. See you very soon Florida!.

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By Maria Espinal

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2

3

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1. Wilton Creamery 2301 Wilton Dr., Suite C4 • Wilton Manors, FL 33305 954.565.1183 • wiltoncreamery.com • Mon-Thur 11am11pm • Fri-Saturday 11am-12am • Sun 12pm-11pm Offering many Vegan/Gluten-Free/Non-Dairy and no sugar options, including our Non-Dairy/Gluten-Free (Coconut based) Ice Creams in Vanilla, Chocolate, Butter Pecan and a rotating flavor, as well as our NonDairy/Gluten-Free Sorbet in Raspberry, Lemon, this is a lovely, lovely upscale boutique Ice Cream Shop located in the heart of Wilton Manors. Coming in to give them a try and get your favorite topper and fresh fruit.

Shakes & Sundaes, catering and "Dog Friendly" Ice cream are available.

3. Frost Museum of Science 1101 Biscayne Blvd. • Miami, FL 33132 305.434.9600 • frostscience.org • Daily 10am – 7pm Isn't science fascinating? Located in Downtown Miami and divided into four buildings, the Phillip and Patricia Frost Museum of Science is a leading science museum dedicated to sharing the power of science, sparking wonder and investigation, and fueling innovation for the future. This time we'd like to feature a couple of current exhibits: Running through Sept 5th is “Sherlock Holmes: The Exhibition,” featuring original manuscripts and period artifacts, investigative tools influenced and used by Sherlock Holmes, and interactive crime-solving opportunities.

2. The Eden 2000 S. Federal Hwy. • Fort Lauderdale, FL 33316 954.498.4682 • theedenplants.com Mon - Sat 10am – 7pm Remember the The Plant Guy Shop? With two locations and renamed, it is now The Eden, a botanical design retail shop with gorgeous indoor and outdoor plants and fiberglass accessories. The Eden creates and provides unique plant arrangements and interior design services to nature lovers with an eye for design.

One of the great new products is their animal-shaped artificial grass fiberglass topiaries, made of the best quality artificial turf from materials from Europe.

4. Mounts Botanical Garden 531 N Military Trl. • West Palm Beach, FL 33415 561.233.1757 • mounts.org • Tue – Fri 9am – 3pm MBG is Palm Beach County's oldest and largest public garden with over 6,000 species of tropical and subtropical plants from six continents. Each garden is a living exhibit, with plants chosen specifically to tell a story to visitors about choices they can make within a challenging subtropical climate. A favorite is the Garden of Tranquility, that combines elements of stone, wood, and living plant materials. The handcarved relief wall is of Indonesian design with elements from Asian influences.

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By Tom Bonanti

DON’T BUY THESE

FITNESS FALLACIES! We've all been in the gym and witnessed people doing crazy things in the pursuit of fitness. Whether you read fitness blogs online or study your favorite health and fitness magazine, you're aware that there is a lot of misinformation out there. Here are a few myths that can affect your workouts and my response to their claims.

Foremost at the top of my list is the adage, “No pain, no gain!” Coined by some muscle-bound nit-wit, this phrase is 102 | HotspotsMagazine.com

not only stupid, it's dangerous. Your workouts need to be challenging and when you exercise you should go for the burn! Delayed Onset Muscle Soreness (DOMS) is the soreness your muscles feel after they've been worked and pushed to fatigue. It's natural and expected especially at the outset of a new training program. But when you experience pain in muscles or joints during repetitions of a set, or when you feel sudden dizziness, nausea, or light-headedness, you

“When you deny yourself proper nutrition your body starts to break down and “feed” on itself...”

need to halt! Pain is your body's way of telling you that something is wrong. When you feel any of these things, you need to take a break, get water, and regroup.

Chances are that everything will be OK but pushing through serious pain is dangerous.

Secondly, “If you want to lose weight, do cardio and skip the weights.” Doing cardio is an important factor in weight loss and the best way to achieve overall cardiovascular health. Weight training preserves and builds muscle. Resistance training is also essential for any successful weight loss program. You see, the more quality lean muscle you carry, the more calories and fat your body burns all the time, even at rest. If you want to lose weight you need both weight training and cardiovascular training. Of course, you also need a sound nutritional plan if you are serious about losing fat and gaining muscle.

Third, “It's OK to work out on an empty stomach.” Usually, people who say this believe that they'll lose weight by working out without the proper fuel. Truth be told, when you exercise first thing in the morning without breakfast, or when you go to the gym after a long day without eating, your body is already in a catabolic state. When you deny yourself proper nutrition your body starts to break down

and “feed” on itself, thus the term catabolic state. Sure, you'll lose fat, but you'll also lose some of the lean muscle you've worked so hard to build.

“You need to take supplements.” It's true that in order to see and feel the results of all your hard work in the gym, you need to eat right. There is no substitute for eating clean, nutrient dense foods. Try to obtain all your macronutrients by eating smaller meals more frequently throughout the day. Use a 3-2-1 ratio of carbohydrates, protein, and fat for every feeding. You may need supplementation for a variety of reasons, but don't just go out and buy everything you can afford. Taking extra supplements can prove to be superfluous, expensive, and even detrimental to your health. Do your research and always check with your physician, first.

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.

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By Romeo San Vicente

Photo: disney+

own visit to the North Pole changes his life's direction.

That's all we know right now, but we're making a Christmas wish that the star of “A Very Harold & Kumar Christmas” ascends to the reins of that sleigh. Watch for it this fall on Disney+.

Kal Penn Joins “The Santa Clauses” Nearly 30 years after the 1994 Disney hit film “The Santa Clause,” its particular extended cinematic universe keeps on paying Christmas bonuses. There have been three feature films based on the story of a regular guy, played by Tim Allen, who learns that he's contractually obligated to become Santa Claus (hence the “clause”), 108 | HotspotsMagazine.com

and all of them are beloved by the adults who watched them as '90s kids.

Now that those kids have kids of their own, a Disney+ series that keeps the story going is in the works. Starring Allen and Elizabeth Mitchell from the original films, the series will also feature Kal Penn as a single father whose

BEN WHISHAW AND JENNIFER CONNELLY ACT OUT IN 'BAD BEHAVIOUR' When the always underrated Jennifer Connelly and the very cool Ben Whishaw — the slyest queer actor of his generation, taking on villainous characters and Paddington with equal skill — sign on to “Bad Behaviour,” a dark comedy about a former child actress and her spiritual guru, we say take our money now. Add to this mix a relatively unknown Australian performer named Alice Englert as Connelly's daughter. Englert appeared in the amazing queerthemed drama “The Power of the Dog,” and it's OK if you

Photo: wikimedia.com

THUMBS UP TO IAN MCKELLEN IN 'THE CRITIC' In the movies, critics are the people we love to hate.

Critic characters get even less overall sympathy than Marvel Cinematic Universe villain Thanos after “The Snap.” And who better to play an imperious and widely feared critic than the king of queer elders, Ian McKellen? In the upcoming period thriller “The Critic,” based on Anthony Quinn's novel “Curtain Call,” the twotime Oscar nominee will play a mean drama critic in 1930s London, and the wonderful Gemma Arterton (“Their Finest”) will play an actress on a mission to win him over.

Enter — stage left — some journalistic intrigue,

Photo: wikimedia.com

don't yet know her name, because you will soon enough. She wrote the screenplay and she's directing, skills we're assuming she learned from a true great: her mother, the legendary Oscar-winning New Zealand filmmaker Jane Campion. Currently in production, be on the lookout for some good “Bad” sometime in 2023.

Pedro Almodóvar blackmail, backstabbing and an actual murder, and now there's a story. Anand Tucker (“Hilary and Jackie”) directs this one from a script by Patrick Marber (“Notes on a Scandal”), and production is already underway. And for the record, if McKellen's critic is the murderer, we want him to get away with everything.

PEDRO ALMODÓVAR'S QUEER WESTERN IS GALLOPING YOUR WAY The legendary gay Spanish filmmaker Pedro Almodóvar made a

Ian McKellen

stunning short film during 2020's lockdown, “The Human Voice,” with Tilda Swinton, and it was as deliriously gorgeous and satisfying as any of his fulllength features. So why not another one? In August he begins production on “Strange Way of Life,” starring Ethan Hawke and Pedro Pascal as middle-aged, same-sex-enjoying gunmen who meet again for the first time in decades. Plans are to shoot in the desert region of Spain where the classic western “The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly” was filmed.

And in what will most likely amount to a third starring role, all the costumes will be from Saint Laurent. The fashion house's designer Anthony Vaccarello, who'll also act as an associate producer on the film, will handle the cowboy duds in the way only Saint Laurent can. Quickly now, someone tell Sam Elliott so we can all laugh at his reaction.

Romeo San Vicente understands the cowboy fascination with chaps.

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HOT PUZZLE

Judy, Judy, Judy 65 Wall of earth 66 Lets out 67 Rib donor in a Cukor film DOWN

ACROSS

1 Christmas threesome 5 Stew cooker 10 Mail carriers at Hogwarts 14 “Six Feet Under” creator Ball 15 Fruit at the bar 16 Future queen of “Star Wars” 17 Shakespeare, for one 18 Fictional Italian town 19 Cold-cock 20 Judy Garland musical with "Get Happy" 23 Blow, as a game 24 Where Dick Button won gold 25 Nation once known as Zaire 28 Calculator button 30 "___ Children of Heterosexuals" 34 Personal lubricant ingredient 35 Blair, who kissed Gellar 37 Eat beaver-style

38 Blood line 39 “Family Matters” nerd 40 To be in Rimbaud's arms 41 With 43-Across, Judy Garland musical with "Get Happy" 43 See 41-Across 45 Queen's "We ___ the Champions" 46 Useful hint 48 TV trigram 49 Do-over for Mauresmo 50 Middle ears 52 Dorothy and Sarah Jessica 54 Judy Garland musical in which she played Vicki Lester 56 "Diana" singer 58 Dayan of the land of the cut 59 Place for Young men?

62 Diana Rigg's Mrs. 63 “Cats” was based on his poems 64 Elizabeth of "Transamerica"

>>>>>> To see answers, visit hotspotsmagazine.com/crossword 114 | HotspotsMagazine.com

1 Queen in “Romeo and Juliet” 2 Home st. of Jim Nabors 3 Long-jawed swimmers 4 Like 10 Down to a young man 5 Doesn't squeal, with "up" 6 Christ the ___ (Rio landmark) 7 Linc portrayer in _The Mod Squad_ 8 "A chicken's only good for ___" (“Funny Girl”) 9 Ship speed units 10 Chickenhawk, for example 11 Lacking potency 12 Nickname that Taylor disliked 13 Motor oil can letters 21 Utterance at a gay rodeo 22 Suffix with schnozz 25 "As is," e.g.

26 "Arsonist" cow owner 27 Mardi gras gadget 29 "Horny" animal 31 Not like Mr. Ripley?

32 Storage room 33 Sounds of baby eagles 35 Dutch Guiana dweller, now 36 Queues with Q's 42 Colorado, to Cocteau 44 Frizzy hair style 47 Early release 48 Bottom line 51 Reading at Metropolitan Community Church 53 Drummer Gene 55 "Beauty ___ the eye..."

56 PD's Invitation to a manhunt?

57 Born, in gay Paree 60 Latina writer Castillo 61 It may be cured or smoked

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By Andreus Quinones

Dear Andreus, I have been dating my boyfriend now for 5 months. We decided to just date and get to know each other before having sex. We finally had sex two weeks ago, and it was horrible. I don't want to go into detail, but I don't want to have sex with him again. I don't know how to tell him this because I really like him.

What can I do?

Sincerely, JoJo P. Dear JoJo, The only thing you can do is be honest. Just chose your words carefully. Maybe you can talk about the experience and try again with a better understanding of each other's expectations. Maybe you spent so much time together, that you created unrealistic expectations. Take your time and think things through. If you really like this guy, then try to work on your relationship beyond simply the physical aspect. Hope this helps.

Dear Andreus, My boyfriend doesn't douche, and I don't know how to tell him that sex is not “clean” enough. He says that he knows his body and can tell when he can bottom. Clearly, that hasn't been working out, because there have been a few incidents. I love him, and I love the idea of sex with him, but I don't like the cleanup.

What can I say without hurting his feelings?

Sincerely, Jacob P.

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“...I love him, and I love the idea of sex with him, but I don't like the cleanup. What can I say without hurting his feelings?”

Dear Jacob, Delivery is everything. Make sure to gently have this conversation. Let him know that you enjoy having sex with him, and for a more intensive and pleasurable experience, you would prefer that he explore douching.

Suggest that he give it a try, but don't make it a demand. Be gentle and be sensitive to the fact that bottoming is a lot of work – preparation or not.