Hotspots! March 16, 2023 (Issue 3806)

38th Year

HOW TO REACH US

MAIN OFFICE

The Sterling Building 2435 N Dixie Hwy., Wilton Manors, Florida 33305 Phone (754) 200-2979

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

Jeff Sterling

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Scott Holland

VP - Operations/Associate Publisher

ADMINISTRATION

VP - Development | Jamie Forsythe

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VP - TV & Digital | Darren Loli

Digital Manager | Troy Maillis

Events Manager | Jameer Baptiste

ART & DESIGN

Art Director | Frank Mendez Designer | Maria Espinal

ADVERTISING

Account Executives

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CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING

Call (754) 200-2979 x 625 or e-mail Classifieds@HotspotsMedia.com

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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 W MEG.org for more info.

NATIONAL ADVERTISING Rivendell Media, 212-242-6863

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Chris Azzopardi | Tom Bonanti

Maria Espinal | S. Elfman

Mike Jeknavorian | Andreus Quinones

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Coco Alarcon | Dale Stine | Dennis Dean | Robert Hadley

CELEBRITY HOST

Shawn Palacious (“Kitty Meow”)

LOGISTICS

Copyright 2023, 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.

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

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

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

Palm Beach Pride

Mar 25 - 26 at Bryant Park in Lake Worth

Palm Beach County's premiere LGBTQ+ Pride Festival, Palm Beach Pride, is returning to Bryant Park in Lake Worth Beach, FL on March 25 & March 26, from 12pm-6pm both days. The Palm Beach Pride Parade takes place on March 26, at 11am on Lake Avenue in Downtown Lake Worth Beach.

“Pride festivals everywhere are places of intention; safe spaces where we can be our authentic selves and enjoy spending time with family and friends. Palm Beach Pride is no exception,” explains Julie Seaver, CEO of Compass Community Center and organizers of Palm Beach Pride. “This year, Compass celebrates 35 years of direct services in the county and we can't imagine a more paramount year to celebrate!”

Palm Beach Pride is a family and petfriendly event. As in years past, anyone under the age of 18 will be admitted to the park for free. Tickets are $10 pre-sale and $12 at the event (all proceeds go directly back into the community through Compass, a 501c3 non-profit organization). Tickets sales are online this year leading up to the event and can be purchased at CompassGLCC.com. This is the only place to buy official tickets.

Pride will be run from the stage by local celebrities Velvet Lenore, Melissa St. John, Rianna Petrone and Ariel Rimm. The four well known emcees keep the fun going while adding a bit of flare through their own performances throughout the weekend.

We spoke with Velvet about her involvement at Palm Beach pride and she said: “I have been performing and hosting Palm Beach Pride for 19 years, and I continue to enjoy performing at pride as its family oriented and a great bonding event Palm Beaches LGBTQ+ members and our allies. I always love to give back to my community. I feel it's a blessing for me to be a part of Palm Beach Pride every year!”

They will be joined by newly crowned 2023 Miss Palm Beach Pride, Vasti Love Montana, who will be performing on both Saturday and Sunday. We asked Vasti how excited she was to be performing at Pride and what she plans on doing this year with her title. She said: “I am super excited to be performing, once again, at Palm Beach Pride, but this year its even more special as I am your Miss Palm Beach Pride. It's like I said at the pageant this reign is not only for me, but for my Latin community, my family, and my chosen family. My goal is to reach out to the locals within the community and talk about knowing their status and to let them know I am here for them…LATINOS

STANDING TOGETHER.”

They are delighted to have an all-star lineup of local and national talent. The Synergy Twins are Sunday's headliners and will be appearing after the highly anticipated performance from the Queen of the Palm Beaches, Velvet Lenore. The

Gypsy Lane Band is performing on Sunday; the band includes members of the original recording band members of the Village People and musicians that toured for KC & the Sunshine Band and Gloria Estefan. Additional entertainers can be viewed on CompassGLCC.com and include Antonio Edwards, Lenora Jaye, RogerThat, DJ Wil Mello, Kiowa, the JD Danner Band, and S. Saik.

Director “Giving local artists and entertainers this type of platform is crucial for all of us to experience the weekend as family, gathering together and uniting in community.”

Changes this year include an internal Health Village, where guests will be able to get information on a variety of healthrelated concerns, free rapid HIV testing, and COVID vaccines (provided by the US Department of Health and Human Services).

Cassandra Cass has been named the 2023 Palm Beach Pride Grand Marshal and will hit the main stage with her performance on Sunday. Cassandra is an internationally known actress, comedian and performer who has appeared on numerous television programs and documentaries including the GLAAD award-winning reality show “Strut”. She is a tireless advocate for transgender and LGBTQ+ rights and has a personal motto of “Labels are for Products, not People.”

“We want to celebrate our community and one of our favorite ways to do that is focusing on the amazing, diverse talent we have right here in South Florida,” says Adrienne Percival, Compass' Development

The Youth Village will be featuring a number of free and fun activities, including free face painting provided by a generous sponsorship from the Marcy and Leona Chanin Foundation. The Compass Youth Department will also be selling 3”x5” Pride flags that represent the many different communities under the LGBTQ+ umbrella.

And with over 125 vendors, there will be truly something for everyone. Organizers also want to ensure that everything is being done to create a safe space for all festival attendees. No bags larger than small backpacks, purses, and fanny packs will be allowed into the park. Clear bags are preferred and any bags that are brought in will be spot checked to prevent prohibited items from entering the park.

For more information or to purchase advance tickets, go to: Compassglcc.com

The first time I connected with Shania Twain in 2017, the country-pop music icon didn't pull any punches, saying “equality should be a nobrainer” as she spoke thoughtfully about her relationship with the LGBTQ+ community. Twain stood firm on that throughout our conversation,

speaking out against supremacy (“supremacy of any sort is just poison”) and pledging to be the kind of ally we hope all gay icons will be.

In Twain's case, she is in the same unique, bridge-building position as someone like fellow country superstar Dolly Parton — they both excite dads and drag queens, but for very different reasons.

If we're speaking about Twain's queer appeal, look no further than “Giddy Up!,” the first song off Twain's sixth studio album, “Queen of Me.” It's a song that would sound right at home in some Texas yeehaw gay bar but, like her hit “Man! I Feel Like a Woman!,” could just as easily get some conservative, beer-guzzling dad to loosen up as he bellows the country bop's fun, flirty and frankly very gay hook. (At a Shania Twain show, to which I have been, trust me when I say these things happen.)

Twain recently reconnected with me to talk about the new album, which we did. But our interview landed in places Twain herself said she appreciated as she was able to reflect on how her words — not just the ones she writes — matter.

So “Queen of Me,” let's get right to it. There's definitely a let loose vibe on this album that I think we all can appreciate after the last few years. How would you describe the spirit of this album and how you came into it?

I'm calling the “Queen of Me” album my happy album because it was literally an exercise during Covid — 'cause I wrote all the songs during Covid. And it was an exercise of just getting myself into a better frame of mind, a more positive frame of mind. Writing lyrics that would make me smile, make me laugh, make me wanna dance. It was like a self-help, well-being exercise to write these songs. And they ended up just being very uplifting. That's also how I narrowed down the songs, you know? I wrote three albums worth of songs during Covid 'cause I was just bored and I ended up

being very creatively productive. I narrowed it down to songs that took me to that happier place. The title itself is so you, Shania, because you are sort of the country queen of empowerment. Like you, LGBTQ+ people really have to become the master of our own universes. So, I'm wondering, did the title happen to come out of any conversations that you had over the years with any LGBTQ+ people in your own life that you're close to? Or were you thinking of them in the process of naming this album or working through the songs? I'm close to so many LGBTQ+ people. They've been part of my creative teams over the years, and they're just part of my life. You're all part of my life, you know? You're part of my inspiration. The “Queen of Me” title was directly inspired by self-empowerment. “What am I really the queen of?” I'm just the queen of myself. I'm not the queen of anyone or anything else. I shouldn't have any control over anyone else; no one should have any control over me either. And so, I really felt motivated to express it for myself and to share it. I've had people in my life going through gender confusion and gender change. Just all of the sadness that I've seen that's so unnecessary. I'm just an allinclusive person. I believe to each his own. And we should all have the right to have that confidence in ourselves to be ourselves. So, on “Queen of Me,” I'm not what you tell me I am. I'm what I proclaim I am. So, don't let anyone tell you what you are.

When I last saw you on tour, there was so much gay energy, from dancers in cowboy hats and chest-baring leopard print to Elijah Wood, the trans person killing it on drums. Your audience is a mix of drag queens and conservative dads, and you are one of those rare artists who can bring polarized political communities together. How intentional on your part is it to bring a certain level of gayness to a Shania Twain show?

Let's start with this — when it comes to talent, there's two things [about] people that I want to be around when I'm in a professional or creative environment. I want people with good character, honesty, and talent. And so, whoever falls in there is in my circle. And so, it's more about the inclusivity than anything. If I was exclusive, I would say, “well, I only want this,” and I think we would all miss out on a lot of exceptional talent. My criteria are good people and talent. And any LGBTQ+ energy or people that are in

my environment are there just on merit. And I think that's more valuable than actually specifically being… I don't wanna be good “for a woman.” I don't wanna be respected just 'cause I'm a woman. I wanna be respected, period. And this is where we really make our mark. And I think it's very important. This is why “Queen of Me” is so the song: “I'm not a girl, I'm not a boy, I'm not a baby, I'm not a toy.” These are all the things I'm not, as being my label. And now let me tell you who I am. And that's

“I write music to relate to people. And so, I'm trying to build relationships through music and friendships through music with people that I can't know in person. It's my avenue. It's my way of reaching out.”

personal. I don't know if everyone will relate to that, but that's my feeling about it. I don't want to be strong for a woman; I just want to be considered strong. And that's even in “Man! I Feel Like a Woman!” It's an internal thing. It's how I feel. Let's talk about how Pride is only just around the corner.

Pride is just around the corner. There are so many wonderful things to be said about that. I mean, so much more freedom to be gained in all realms of society. But the LGBTQ+ [community], I admire the courage because I think that the community has taken strides forward. In my own adult life, period, it's been leaps and bounds. I've got so many friends in the creative world. I mean, [fashion designer] Marc Bouwer is one of them. We've been working together for over 20 years. And there was no such community power and support then. It didn't make a difference for our communication, one to one. We were always friends. There were never any barriers there, one to one. But I was so aware of the struggle. It's just good and very rewarding to see so much advancement. I mean, Kim Petras, for example. So, 20 years ago, that's not that long ago; even 15 years ago, even 10 years ago. Would that moment have been possible? Or would it have happened? And Kim is the most — you know, should I say she or they? Correct me so that I get it right. Kim uses she.

I wanna get it right. Thank you. So, Kim is the most angelic person. Genuinely sweet, kind, and I could sense that she

was at peace with herself. I hope that that is the case, 'cause that journey has… I haven't asked her about it. But I know it's been difficult. It takes courage. It's difficult. It's challenging. So, I just wanna say that Kim is courageous with grace. When you think of your longstanding relationship with the LGBTQ+ community, what does it mean to you to be an LGBTQ+ ally now?

It's very important. I write music to communicate. I write music to relate to people. And so, I'm trying to build relationships through music and friendships through music with people that I can't know in person. It's my avenue. It's my way of reaching out. And so, what I say really does matter to me, and what it means to everyone else that's receiving it. And, I mean, mostly through the music, obviously 'cause I do more music than I do talking. That's my real language, you know? Writing, and writing lyrics. Encouraging and inspiring. That's what I look to music for — for inspiration. When I'm on a tour in a show and I've got an audience there, we are on the same page. We're all from very different backgrounds. We're all different ages. We are all coming from different cultures, realities…

You are the bridge. But music is the bridge, not me. So, what I say is very important in that sense. You know, it's the music that should do all the talking.

This interview has been lightly edited and condensed for clarity.

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

Winter Party Festival Weekend

My Fair Lady Comes to Arsht Center Mar 28-Apr 2

Lincoln Center Theater's production of Lerner & Loewe's My Fair Lady will make its anticipated South Florida premiere at the Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts of Miami-Dade County from March 28 – April 2. Boasting a score that contains such now-classic songs as “I Could Have Danced All Night,” “Get Me to the Church on Time,” “Wouldn't It Be Loverly,” “On the Street Where You Live,” “The Rain in Spain,” and “I've Grown Accustomed to Her Face,” My Fair Lady tells the story of Eliza Doolittle, a young Cockney flower seller, and Henry Higgins, a linguistics professor who is determined to transform her into his idea of a “proper lady.” But who is really being transformed?

The 2022-23 Broadway in Miami subscription season is presented by Bank of America and Florida Theatrical Association in association with the Adrienne Arsht Center, along with support

from Nicklaus Children's Hospital.

Lincoln Center Theater's production of Lerner & Loewe's My Fair Lady is the winner of 5 Outer Critics Circle Awards including Best Revival of a Musical and was nominated for 10 Tony Awards including Best Musical Revival, 5 Drama Desk Awards including Best Musical Revival and 3 Drama League Awards including Best Musical Revival.

The touring production will feature Madeline Powell as Eliza Doolittle, Jonathan Grunert as Professor Henry Higgins, John Adkison as Colonel Pickering, Madeline Brennan as Mrs. Pearce, Michael Hegarty as Alfred P. Doolittle, Nathan Haltiwanger as Freddy Eynsford-Hill and Becky Saunders as Mrs. Higgins.

Lincoln Center Theater's production of My Fair Lady was hailed by The New York Times as “Thrilling, glorious and better than it ever was. A marvelous and transformative revival.” New York Magazine described it as “Enthralling,” adding that “Bartlett Sher's glowing revival proves that a beloved musical from another era can keep on kicking,” and Entertainment Weekly raved “A sumptuous new revival of the most perfect musical of all time. A masterful piece of entertainment.”

It was a pleasure to sit down with Jonathan Grunert, who plays the role of Professor Henry Higgins, for this exclusive Hotspots interview.

At what age did you begin performing?

I think my first show was in 5th grade. They were doing “The Music Man” at the local high school, and they needed someone to play Winthrop.

What was your first paid gig?

I started doing summer stock in undergrad at the Big Fort Playhouse, and we did “Grease,” “Crazy For You” and a couple other shows. It was a wonderful way to start your work as an actor as you do four shows in a summer and it was my first time working with people from other schools. When did you know performing would be your career?

I still don't know…LOL…I pursued it, because I loved it!

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

Right before this I did a production of “Into the Woods,” and I was Rapunzel's Prince and what was great is that we performed it in the woods outside. It was one of the most magical things I have ever been a part of.

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

I have always really wanted to go back and do “The Music Man” again since it was the first show I did. It would bring on so many wonderful memories again.

Is it hard being on the road all the time?

It has its challenges like anything else. The hotels kind of all blend together, however, I have gotten to try so many new foods and take advantage of the local flair. We get to see so much of the country.

How well do you and your castmates get along?

Very well, we all hang out together even in our off time. I am lucky to be working with amazing artists who are also nice people.

Describe yourself in 3 words?

No, I shall not…LOL!! Stubborn, optimistic, and eager

What do you do for fun?

I am a big book worm and movie buff. What should our readers expect from this touring company of “My Fair Lady”?

It's the classic Cinderella story of Eliza Doolittle. I play Henry Higgins who is a professor of speech and agrees to give Eliza lessons to change her into a proper lady in 6 months. It's about 2 characters trying to speak the same language and they both change. The costumes, and sets are a lavish Broadway musical brought to life.

For more information on Jonathan follow him on: Instagram.com/mrjgrunert or Jonathan Grudert.com. For more information on the show go to: myfairladyontour.com/.

Tickets to My Fair Lady are $33-$130 and may be purchased now at the Adrienne Arsht Center box office by calling (305) 9496722, or online at arshtcenter.org.

Hotties HOTSPOTS

Meet Our Cover Model

Étienne Lartigau

is 35, a Virgo and is originally from Argentina.

What city you live in?

Since I moved to the US, I have moved so many times! Some, inside the same city but also cross country a few times!

I lived in DC, New York, Los Angeles, New Orleans, Palm Springs and now live on Key Biscayne! I loved discovering those cities as a local. They are all magical and unique in their own way!

Are you Single or married.

I have a partner and a 3-year-old daughter. They are the reason I wake up in the morning and I can't imagine my life without them! I'm the luckiest guy!

What's your perfect date?

Hmmm I think an intimate home cooked dinner with my partner with a lot of sexual tension. You know those times when you just can't behave?

What do you do for a living?

I am an actor, model, and I have my own tech company where I help people figure out their technology. From cell phones to setting up an entire smart home. I make tech work for people and not the other way around. Check it out at: Technorella.net

What do you do for fun?

So many things! Depends on my mood. From going to see a show to staying home geek-ing out with some new tech toy or product for myself or a client. I love the beach and being outside! And I love to travel and try new adventures. But spending quality time with my family is always my priority.

What does the future hold for you?

I love to say, “I don't know!!” All I see now in my near future is a few fashion shows and campaigns lined up, and some interesting acting roles. I believe the Universe makes things happen at the right time. A lot of great things are in the air, and they will materialize when the time is right. I'm very excited about all the prospects in 2023!

Palmyra Lounge

2031 Wilton Drive • Wilton Manors, FL 33305

754.216.2727 • palmyrarest.com

Mon 4pm – 10pm • Tue – Sat 12pm – 2am • Sun 12pm – 12am

Located in the heart of our gayborhood, this is a Middle Eastern Restaurant serving the most authentic dishes from Hummus, Baba ghanoush and Grape Leaves to Kebabs, Shawarma, Falafel & more! Among their popular items you can find their Humus; Mixed Grill Entrée (three skewers of Beef Kabob, Kefta Kabob, Chicken Kefta Kabob or Chicken Kefta Kabob with 2 sides of your choice) and their Chicken Shawarma. One of my favorites are the Lamb Chops and Beef Shawarma. Check their menu online.

Askanelli Premium Georgian

511 SE 5th Avenue • Fort Lauderdale, FL 33301

754.200.5917 • uoigroup.org • Tue - Sun 12am - 12pm

Located opposite side of the noisy Las Olas Blvd., Askanelli is the unique union of the ancient Georgian traditions of food and wine and European quality standards. Fun mixes with food on some nights for Karaoke (Thur), Jazz & Blues (Fri), Dance (Sat) & Romantic Guitar (Sun) at 7pm. From their menu we can highlight its Gebjalia (suluguni cheese rolls with mint), pastries, breads & pies. From their Hot Entrees, Chkmeruli (Chicken in traditional Georgian white garlic sauce), Pork, Salmon & Lamb Kebab along homemade potatoes.

Chabella Mexican Cantina

7910 NW 25th street, suite 102 • Miami, FL 33122 786.631.4979 • chabellamiami.com

Sun – Thur 11:45am - 10:30pm • Fri – Sat 11:45am – 11:45pm

Looking for the perfect setting for your next date night? Planning on celebrating a special occasion, or just want to spend a night out with the family? Make a reservation at Chabella, one of Miami's new restaurants serving authentic Mexican cuisine. Choose from salads, tacos, quesadillas, ceviche, guacamole, as well as main entrees deliciously served. They have plenty of signature cocktails, wine, tequila and mezcal. Daily lunch specials and happy hour available. Bring out the mariachis please!

Ichiban Sushi/Thai

7400 N. Federal Hwy., C5 • Boca Raton, FL 33487 561.235.5364 • ichibansushithai.com

Mon 12:30pm - 10pm • Tue – Thur 11am – 10pm • Fri 11am –10:30pm • Sat 12pm – 10:30pm

Ichiban used to be my favorite restaurant for sushi & Thai while they were in Davie years ago. My favorite rolls are the Godzilla (Shrimp & salmon dynamite, cream cheese & cucumber topped with avocado); Mexican roll & Lobster Bomb roll; can’t leave out their yummy Pad Thai. Give them a try, friendly staff, too!

AHF’s 18th Annual Florida AIDS Walk & Music Festival

AIDS Healthcare Foundation (AHF), the world's largest, non-profit HIV/AIDS service organization, is partnering with multi-awardwinning rapper Flo Rida for the 18th Annual AIDS Walk & Musicfest at Fort Lauderdale Beach, 1100 Seabreeze Blvd

Internationally acclaimed rapper, singer, and composer Flo Rida has been a staple in the top 10 of the U.S. music charts since launching his career in 2008 with his breakout single "Low." The Carol City native has sold more than 80 million records worldwide. His catalog includes the international hit singles "Right Round," "Club Can't Handle Me," "Good Feeling," "Wild Ones," "Whistle," "G.D.F.R." and "My House."

“We are incredibly excited to have Flo Rida to join us as the headline performer for this year's event,” said Michael Kahane, Southern Bureau Chief for AIDS Healthcare Foundation. “He previously has been involved with the event and is an amazing spokesperson in helping both to raise funds for our beneficiaries as well as raise awareness of the devastating impact of HIV/AIDS on the South Florida community.”

The annual, spring break event attracts more than 2,000 attendees and raises approximately $2 million for 12 local, nonprofit organizations providing HIV/AIDS services in the South Florida community, the epicenter of the epidemic nationally. The event also will feature resource booths sharing information on an array of health and wellness services, children's games, food trucks, and other family-focused activities. To close out the action-packed experience, the music festival will showcase the electrifying sounds of singer/songwriter and international DJ, DJ Citizen Jane.

8am – Site opens

9:15am – Formal ceremony

10am – Walk starts

11:30am – Music Festival starts 2pm – Event concludes

To register go to: FloridaAidsWalk.org.

2023 Beneficiaries: Afro Pride Federation, Aqua, Broward House, Equality Florida, Latinos Salud, The Pride Center at Equality Park, Pridelines, Safe Schools South Florida, SAVE.LGBT, SunServe, Transinclusive, and World AIDS Museum and Educational Center.

HOT PUZZLE Make Lemonade from Your Lemons

6 Singer on “Lord of the Rings” soundtrack

7 Cabinet div.

8 Start of an Evan Wolfson memo

9 Deuce follower, for Mauresmo

10 Cross-dresser M. Klinger's rank

11 Witherspoon's favorite cups?

12 Tops

13 Uses a turkey tool

18 Megan's “Will & Grace” character

19 Support for someone on their knees

24 Ball of film

26 Barrie's boys

28 Seattle's WNBA team

29 Sound in a studio

30 Lott of Mississippi

>>To see all photos, visit HotspotsMagazine.com

Hotspots!

Tampa Pride Returns Starring Pepper Mashay

Mar 23 - 25

Tampa Pride is a group of passionate advocates, community leaders and engaged volunteers. Their mission is to organize year-round events, culminating in an annual Pride event that celebrates members of the LGBTQ+ community in Tampa and the surrounding areas –championing their shared experiences, honoring their differences and strengthening their community. They believe in equal rights for all.

The Tampa Pride Street Festival is back! Once again, They're working with HCC Ybor Campus to bring added attractions. The Tampa Pride Street Festival will include an Arts & Crafts Show, Community Health Fair and Entrepreneurs Area. The Main Stage will be located in the Cuban Club Courtyard. The Street Festival will kick off at 10:45am with the Tampa Bay Pride Band and guest speakers followed by featured entertainment.

The vendor areas are in two main areas: E 9th Avenue & The HCC parking lot. The E 9th Avenue area is two blocks from N 13th Street to N 15th Street. The second area comprises the HCC parking lot area.

Back this year will be the Food Alley. Located on 14th Street between 9th Ave & Palm Ave., right between The Cuban Club and HHC!!! This area will be open 11AM to 11PM. Food trucks are the only food vendor spaces allowed in the festival this year.

The Street Festival will feature an Arts and Crafts area, an affordable way for more vendors to participate!

The annual Tampa Pride Diversity Parade will once again wind its way east from the corner of Nuccio Parkway and E 7th Avenue, down E 7th Avenue to N 20th Street where it will turn north to disperse. The parade will kick off at 4pm.

The Tampa Pride VIP Sponsors Party takes place two days earlier on Thursday, March 23 at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay 10165 McKinley Drive. When you purchase a ticket to the Tampa Pride VIP Sponsors Party you gain access to an all-day admission to Busch Gardens Tampa Ba y with free parking culminating in an exclusive party with hors doeuvres and drinks located in the Gwazi Pavillion at 6:30 PM to 9:30 PM. One free drink is provided, but a cash-only bar will also be available on site.

We decided to sit down with headliner Pepper Mashay, who will be celebrating her 70th birthday at pride, for this exclusive Hotspots interview:

Do you remember the first time you sang or were you always a singer?

I started when I was 7 (come from military family) we had a great life, and we would go home to either Nashville or Munsey Indiana, and I was such a radio kid and the first song I remember singing was “Sherry Baby” in front of my family as we would have a little amateur hour.

When was the first time you got paid for singing and do you remember how much it was?

The first was when I won my high school end of the year talent show. I got $75. It was the song “Its Your Thing, Do What You Want To Do” by the Eisley brothers. You sang for the likes of Tina Turner, Cher, Mick Jagger, Keb' Mo', and Celine Dion, do you have a favorite?

OMG it would have to be Tina Turner. Roby Nevil got me those gigs, and he discovered me at a studio, and he recommended me to the Tina Turner Project. It was for the soundtrack for “What's Love Got to do With It.”

You became known internationally with your hit “Dive In The Pool.” How did that come about, and do you still enjoy singing it? I was working at a full-time job, and I was called one day to come in by Barry Harris to do a track. I went to their studio in the valley, and he didn't want me to sing it he wanted me to talk it. But he wanted me to get in a frame of mind of a character. I took the character of my mom when she was calling my siblings and I from the window to come home for dinner. After I did it, I went out on tour as a back up singer internationally, and I was getting messages from my friends that the Winter Music conference was blowing up the song. By the time I made it back home, I was approached by George Dillinger (Barry's manager) to come out on the ro ad and sing

the track for Muscle Beach during White Party weekend in South Beach. I did the party, and it blew me up! The track then went on to be the theme song for “Queer as Folk.”

I just found out that you live with your wife Ellen. To be honest, I always thought you were straight…do tell?

I thought I was too…LOL! But then I meet Ellen and we will be celebrating our 10-year anniversary in October. We met at an AIDS Benefit. It was very profound, as I was coming off a divorce from a 30-year marriage, and my sons are 43 and 47, so I was flying solo. I saw Ellen and fell in love with her. She invited me over to her house and I never left or looked back.

Describe yourself in 3 words?

Dreamer, loner, and exhilarating. What do you do for fun?

I watch a lot of news and I am not happy with what's been happening with our political discourse in this country. This creates a lot of hate. I have the fire in me to get people to be more accepting and loving.

You will be celebrating your 70th birthday at Tampa Pride. How special is this and are you excited to be once again performing at Tampa Pride?

Babe it is phenomenal. I have had instances in my life and career where people have fallen in love with me as a human being, as I do my best to treat everyone the same. But when you have an organization, like Tampa Pride, that wants me to keep coming back, its an amazing feeling. Tampa is turning out to be a haven for me for all this exciting music that I am coming out with. I literally

asked them “Aren't you sick of me yet” and they said “no,” and that they love me every time. I cant wait to perform at Tampa Pride once again!

What does the future hold for you?

More songs and hopefully this year will be great for me as I am working on my compilations. I did a Volume 1, and I am now working on Volume 2 and 3.

For more information or to purchase tickets, etc. go to TampaPride.org

ACCOUNTING u

STERLING ACCOUNTING

Friendly, engaging and specialized expertise for individuals and those with small businesses and real estate. Call Sterling Accounting at 954-667-9829. Tax@SterlingAccounting.com

AIR CONDITIONING u

CENTRAL AIR CONDITIONING

Repairs, installations, indoor air quality. Residential/ Commercial. Proudly serving the tri-county area. Quality and experience. Free service calls for all A/C makes and models. Lic/Ins CMC1249558 Call 954-274-8287 for your free estimate. **10% off your first repair**

ADVERTISE IN MARKETPLACE Call 754-200-2979

Email Classifieds@HotSpotsMedia.com

APPLIANCES u

COMPUTERS u

HELPMEERIC.COM ! TECH SUPPORT

Your Personal Tech Assistant. BEST RATES in the tri-county area. Specializing in Android & iPhones. PC/Mac-Training, Installation, Clean-up & Repairs. Friendly, In-Home and remote Srvc. Call/Txt 954-903-4383.

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

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

CLEANING SERVICES u

ELECTRICAL u

‘RTS ELECTRIC’ 24-HOUR SERVICE

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

EUROPEAN CLEANING SERVICES LLC

The ultimate in home cleaning. 10 years experience. Licensed. References. When only the best will do! Serving Broward county. Free Quotes. All work guaranteed! Owner operator. Call Pawel at 954-305-6802 for estimate.

HAIR REMOVAL u

HAIR REMOVAL & MORE!

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

HANDYMAN u

L.H.P. HANDYMAN SERVICES

Reliable, honest, affordable general home repairs, pressure washing, painting, tile, light plumbing, light/ fan fixtures installs. Good troubleshooting. Insured. L.H.P. Handyman Services - Al (954)683-3754

ONE-STOP SHOPPING AND ASSOCIATES HANDYMAN/ REMODELING AND MORE WITH OVER 30 YEARS EXPERIENCE IN ALL PHASES OF... Home improvements, additions, electrical, plumbing, painting, kitchen, baths, wood flooring / trim, TV mounting, Former owner of a NY remodeling co. as well as a hands on worker, because I demand perfection in all I do. Please call Mitch 954-253-4650 for prompt honest and dependable service. Lic. CGC1514441 and insured.

HEALTHCARE u

KENNY & JAY REPAIRS AND MAINTENANCE

TV Wall mounting, Ceiling Fans, Bathroom, kitchen, faucet, 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. Bathroom, Vanity, sinks, dishwasher & garbage disposals and SHOWER GRAB BARS. Replace Door knobs and locks (locksmith). K&J 954-260-9940 BEST PRICES IN TOWN! 32 Years Experience.

ADVERTISE IN MARKETPLACE Call 754-200-2979

Email Classifieds@HotSpotsMedia.com

INSURANCE u

If you died tomorrow, would your family have the means to cover your funeral expenses for cremation or a burial? Have you had a Financial Needs Analysis in the last 12 months? If you have answered no to any of these questions, please reach out to Denise Y. Johnson-Hopkins at (561) 758-5085 cell (954) 346-6564 office or email djohnsonhopkins@primerica.com Choosing the right insurance coverage that gives you the most value for your money is more important than ever. Buying the right type of life insurance might be one of the most important decisions you will make. At Primerica, we value educating our clients and I’d love the opportunity to answer any questions about term life insurance. In the United States (except in New York), term life insurance products are underwritten by Primerica Life Insurance Company, Executive Offices: Duluth, Georgia. Primerica Representatives are independent contractors and are not employees of Primerica. Representatives earn income through the sale of products and are not paid to recruit.

LAWN MAINTENANCE / IRRIGATION

LAWN MAINTENANCE - LANDSCAPE

Make your home a showplace. INTEGRITY LANDSCAPE SERVICES, LLC specializes in property clean up, tree and shrub pruning, sodding and landscape design & installation. We also do lawn maintenance. Call 954-812-5434 or 954-288-3601 our website at www.integrityLandscapingService.com

IRRIGATION SYSTEM REPAIR AND MAINTENANCE

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

LICENSED MASSAGE

RED BOX MOVING COMPANY

Affordable, Reliably, & Careful. Licenced & Insured (MV#567) Norbert 954-305-9176

www.redboxmoving.com

LIFE COACH u

KEVIN BURKE, LIFE COACH

A confidential & caring professional ready to help you find your path forward. My joy is helping you find yours. C: 954-812-0711 or FB: Life Coaching by Kevin Burke

PERSONAL SERVICES u

PERSONAL ASSISTANT – FT LAUDERDALE, FLORIDA

$50,000 per-year, plus exclusive use of nearby Fort Lauderdale waterfront apartment. I am a clean cut, educated, healthy, well established, 6’1” 195 lbs. partnered, 80+-year-old, non-smoker/drugs, conservative, honest, and predictable gay man looking for a dependable guy to facilitate making my life easy, smooth and stress free. Looking for gay assistant for light administrative efforts, tackle life issues & projects who is experienced in dealing diplomatically with others, etc. No personal involvement. Should be: straight demeanor, articulate, computer/internet savvy, great speller, careful driving, good swimmer, paramedic or EMT or smart enough to become one, very healthy, physically-fit, clean-cut, mid-20’s to mid-30s, non-smoker, drug and STD free, street smart, personable, mature, easy going, reliable, self-starter, responsible, regular guy. Should not be: cocky, arrogant, temperamental, egotistical, vain, high maintenance or sports a criminal record. Serious replies with very recent photo and current resume to wagner38@proton.me

RENTALS - OAKLAND PARK

2/1 ALL GAY MALE REMODELED COMPLEX

Available now! Clothing optional pool, Laundry, Central A/C. no pets. In Oakland Park near Scandals (NE 6th). First, Last and Security required. $1,800/ month. Call Greg at 954-422-2080.

ROOMMATES -BROWARD

LOOKING FOR ROOMMATE

Fully furnished bedroom, dresser, private bath. Cable and Internet. Community Pool. Off Federal Hwy Between Hillsborough and SW 10th street. I have cats. You must be employed or steady income. Background check required. $850 a mos. F/L/S required. Call Jeff at 954-270-6868.

YOGA u ROOMMATES - WILTON MANORS

SEEKING HOUSEMATE GWM, 64, clean, quiet, nonsmoker, no drugs, own no pets, respectful, non-party, seeks room in Wilton. Be within walking distance or short ride to the Drive. Enjoy music, film, aviation, cars. Former professional, semi-retired receiving SS benefits & working remotely part-time. $1,000 monthly budget. randyp.sf@gmail.com

ADVERTISE IN MARKETPLACE

TAX PREPARATION u

HAROLD J BLOTCHER, EA

Tax preparation and resolution for individuals and small businesses. Help with same-sex marriage issues and IRS matters. Call 781-363-5519 or 561-429-3592 www.haroldjblotchertaxes.com