David Atlanta Magazine - Issue 64

8.28.13 #64

Atlanta

BLACK

Gay Pride: THE 2013 RUNDOWN A Glimpse at

Dragon Con

2013

Savannah Survival Guide

m o r f e t o r N o t A the Edi 8.28.13 Issue #64

STAFF MANAGEMENT David Thompson Publisher | david@davidatlanta.com Elijah Sarkesian Editor in Chief elijah@davidatlanta.com Joe Ragsdale Art Director ragsdale@davidatlanta.com Bob Gunby Sales Director | bob@davidatlanta.com

EDITORIAL Chris Azzopardi Joseph Brownell Paul Conroy Ryan Dixon Christina Dore Kelli Goldman Van Gower Nicholas Grant Matthew Harrell Dylan Michael Brent Star

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Celebs: They’re Just Like Us

L

ast week, Prison Break star (and generally sexy guy) Wentworth Miller came out as gay. It’s newsworthy, in part, just because pretty much any celebrity coming-out story is newsworthy these days. But part of the newsworthiness of Miller’s coming out came from the way he did it – as a political statement in response to an event invitation in Russia.

Speculation about Miller’s sexuality has existed since he came into popularity with Prison Break’s premiere years ago, but it’s been a topic about which he initially denied rumors. Since his coming out last week, plenty of Internet commenters have bashed Miller for his earlier statements. As much as I know I should just ignore comment sections on websites (aside from ours, of course!), the comments trouble me.

I think we forget sometimes that public figures can have private struggles with their sexuality, just like the rest of us. I know it took quite a few years for me to come to grips with my own sexuality, and I came out at 18. We’ve all heard plenty of stories about people only discovering their sexual orientation later in life. Why do we assume public figures have it easier? Not every actor or singer gets into the business for the fame.

Some just want to create art, and they stumble into success.

It’s something to consider the next time someone famous comes out.

Even if it’s Tom Cruise or John Travolta.

Elijah Sarkesian The content of this Publication is for your general information and use only. It is subject to change without notice. The opinions expressed by any writer, advertiser, or other person appearing in the Magazine are not necessarily those of the Publication, its management or staff. The information and materials appearing in the Magazine are not guaranteed or warranted as to accuracy, timeliness, performance, completeness, or suitability of the information and materials found or offered for a particular purpose. It shall be your responsibility to ensure that any products, services, or information available through this Publication meets your specific requirements. The Publication is not responsible for claims made by advertisers, content of information, changes, events, and schedules. The Magazine contains information and material which is owned by or licensed to the Publication, including but not limited to articles, advertisement, design, layout, graphics, and logos. No part or portion of this Publication may be reproduced in any way without the prior written consent of the Publisher. Unauthorized use of this Publication may give rise to claims for damages and or criminal offenses. Your use of the information or materials in the Publication is strictly at your own risk.

I can remember when I first moved to Georgia, I was a total wreck. I have diabetes, hypertension, depression, prostate cancer survivor, chest pains, arthritis — you name it I had it. When I first arrived at Pride Medical they checked me out and put me on medication, and gave me their recommendations. I put my trust in them and my health began to improve. I will never forget when I started to show an improvement Dr. Anisman sent me the biggest barrel of yellow mums with a note of how proud he was with my improvements. No other doctor had ever done anything like this for me before or put my welfare first. Later I started seeing Dr. David Morris; he is the most passionate and concerned person.

He listens intently, asks all pertinent questions, and makes sure you feel comfortable. And Pride Medical has other physicians and specialists to assist you. It is like one-stop shopping, including prescriptions. I have been a patient there since 1995. Nothing or no one could persuade me to go to another practice.

— Eugene Blu Johnson with Dr. David Morris

■

Primary Care & HIV Physician Services

■

Full-service retail pharmacy open to the public

■

Proudly serving the LGBTQ community for 18 years

Pride Medical provides state-of-the-art comprehensive quality medical care in a multidisciplinary environment. Also: On-site Infusion therapy, Mental health counseling.

@PrideMedical

Pride Medical, Inc.

404.355.3788 | 3280 Howell Mill Road | Suite 326 | Atlanta | www.PrideMedical.com

** Free Anonymous HIV testing **

TOC

8.28.13 Issue #64

Cover >

Atlanta Black Gay Pride Dragon Con Savannah Survival Guide

24 28 46

Feature > Decatur Book Festival 34 Southern Comfort Conference 36 The Legendary Children 42

Seen@ > Friends on Ponce 10 Atlanta Eagle 30 Joystick Gamebar 38 Blake’s 44 Magic Mike @ Wild Bill’s 54 Heretic 74

24

28

46

42

The Rest > Untucked with Brent Star 14 Creep of the Week 16 Hear Me Out 56 the Scene 60 Bartab 62 Datebook 64 Comics 68 Fairyscopes 72 Classifieds 73 Bitch, Please!

76

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BRAKES REPLACE PADS

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OIL CHANGE

$17.95

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12 // davidatlanta.com

What’s really up with WASSUPNATL and Brandy?

Y

ay, it’s Pride season and this weekend is Black Gay Pride (not to be confused with African American Gay Pride). There are so many events to go to this year, some educational, informative, helpful and there are probably some that will pretty much get you pregnant. Meanwhile, I decided to catch up with super party/club promoter, Mario Harris, to talk about what his promotional team, WASSUPNATL, got planned for us this year!

Okay look: for 11 years, WASSUPNATL always do something over the top and fun for pride not to mention bring in heavy hitters like Fantasia, Lil’ Kim, and Kelly Rowland. What big name are you bringing this year?

we have sexy dancers from Guaranteed Entertainment (Memphis, Dallas, and Little Rock) vs. the hot boys from TNT Entertainment (DC, Philly, New York and more!). And for extra whip cream, we have Anaconda vs. Redickulous from the Real Housewives of Atlanta.

Damn, I’m not going to even ask you why he is called Anaconda! Just as long as I get to be the cherry on top!

It’ll be two cherries on top because of our other special guest that night, Mimi Faust from Love & Hip Hop Atlanta.

I can’t wait! So we’ve covered Friday and Sunday – wassup with the other three days?

Brandy. You know the one with an impressive catalog of hit songs, the model and actress, and not to menThursday night we’re kicking off Black Pride Weekend tion the star of her own famous sitcom back in the day, at the Legendary Phase One hosted by The Marie Moesha.

Effect. Saturday day we have porn star Bobby Blake hosting pool party at the Holiday Inn Airport North, And the big sister of her brother Ray J who’s then we’re doing an upscale Ultimate White Party at known for his X rated video’s showcasing his Tantra Lounge. huge, um…

Lawd. I can’t wait. Okay, I need to go to Yes, but I’m not sure if he’s coming. So let’s get back Walgreens right quick to purchase some to Brandy. She will be hosting our show on that Sunday baby oil so my body can be smooth for those at Freight Depot, which is our main event, this includes strippers and just in case Ray J shows up! live performances by Bliss, JeBron, the cast of stage Anything else you’ll like to say? play Impossible Dreams starring Liz Yancy.

Yes, Thank you for choosing ATL for your party Okay! You betta’ pack out that Freight Depot, source. And to check out more info on these events downtown ATL. You’re also known for having and our regular weekly events, please check out like a thousand strippers and go go dancers WASSUPNATL.com (and click on the Labor Day tab). at your events in which I’m glad to return as host/emcee…but for which night again?

Brent Star’s Black Pride Schedule: That Friday at the Jungle, baby! Yes, you will be hosting the big “Stars of the Stripper World” contest. It will be the East coast vs. the Dirty South. This year 14 // davidatlanta.com

Friday, Aug. 30: The Jungle with WASSUPNATL Sunday, Sept. 1: Tribal Fantasy Party @ 708

@DavidAtlantaGA // 15

TAKE THE NEXT STEP IN YOUR RELATIONSHIP WITH US! ATLANTA PRIDE COMMITMENT CEREMONY 11 AM, SATURDAY, OCTOBER 12, 2013 W ATLANTA MIDTOWN

REGISTER ONLINE BY OCTOBER 1, 2013: WWW.ATLANTAPRIDE.ORG/FORMS

@DavidAtlantaGA // 17

creep

of the week:

Russell D. Moore

different bathrooms, men and women on different sports teams. When gender identity is severed from biological sex, where does one’s self-designation end, and who will be harmed in the process?”

Uh oh. I take it back. He doesn’t get it. But don’t worry, it’s not like he has anything against transgender people.

“As conservative Christians,” he writes, “we do not see transgendered persons as ‘freaks’ to be despised or ridiculed.”

Aww, how sweet. I mean, seriously, coming from him, this is practically a Valentine. Because he basically thinks that transgender people are the anti-Christ.

Or if not the anti-Christ, at least anti-Christ.

“The transgender question means that conservative Christian congregations such as mine must teach what’s been handed down to us, that our maleness and femaleness points us to an even deeper reality, to the unity and complementarity of Christ and the church,” he writes. “A rejection of the goodness of those creational realities then, is a revolt against God’s lordship...”

Got that? If you’ve got a beef with your genitals, then you’ve got a beef with God. And God don’t make junk. Or give you the wrong junk. Or something like that. Because God.

By D’Anne Witkowski How do you solve a problem like a tranny? How do you catch a gender and pin it down?

Those are the questions keeping Russell D. Moore up at night. And so Moore, president of the Ethics and Religious Liberty Commission of the Southern Baptist Convention, took to the pages of the Washington Post to ponder the “transgender question” in the wake of California’s decision to protect transgender students from discrimination.

“Ultimately,” Moore writes, “the transgender question is about more than just sex. It’s about what it means to be human.”

Look, I know that the Christian church is all about the difference between “maleness and femaleness” and are hot to keep those categories separate and unequal forever and ever, amen. But people are not transgender just because they’re confused and are just rebelling against God. Moore’s Washington Post piece completely disregards individual experiences and circumstances, not to mention religious belief or lack thereof, and characterizes all transgender people as people who just need to get right with God. “[W]e will love and be patient with those who feel alienated from their created identities. We must recognize that some in our churches will face a long road of learning what it means to live as God created them to be, as male or female. That sort of long, slow, plodding and sometimes painful obedience is part of what Jesus said would be true of every believer: the bearing of a cross.”

Exactly! Wow. This guy actually gets it. The root of the matter is basic human dignity. I mean, what kind of person wouldn’t want to protect transgender teens, a group of kids who are often misunderstood and face ridicule and harassment?

In other words, we will never accept you as a human being worthy of dignity or protection. We will, however, acknowledge your suffering and applaud your courage to live your life in constant pain because we say you should.

Moore continues, “Laws such as those in California will quickly test the boundaries of society’s tolerance for a psychological and individualistic definition of gender. There are reasons, after all, why societies put boys and girls in

Because when all is said and done, gender is a binary. You’re either male or female and if you aren’t sure which one you are, just look between your legs to see if you have a flibbertigibbet, or whatever kids are calling it these days.

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Celebrate your pride!

Be smart. Have fun. Play safe.

For so many wonderful reasons – not the least of which are our strong African-American population and central role in the human rights movement – Atlanta is a wonderful city in which to celebrate Black Gay Pride.

Still, as you enjoy this beautiful city and engage in the festivities and remembrances, be smart about your sexual activity. Historically, HIV/AIDS has disproportionately affected the LGBT community but is increasingly affecting African-Americans. Nationally, African-Americans represent 14% of the population, yet according to the CDC, 44% of all new HIV infections involved African-Americans. Worldwide, new HIV rates are down 20%, however, rates are rising in the African-American community.

According to the Kaiser Family Foundation, African-Americans are diagnosed with HIV at nearly 3 times the rate of Hispanics, and 9 times the rate of Caucasians. African-Americans are diagnosed with AIDS at a rate 3 times higher than Hispanics, and 10 times higher than Caucasians.

Unfortunately, the death rate from AIDS is 4 times higher than Hispanics, and nearly 9 times higher than Caucasians.

The only shame in this data is that any one group is, or ever has been, disproportionately affected

by HIV. However, no single person or group should feel shame. Instead, as a community, now is the time for action to reverse this trend. We can each do our part as individuals.

Research has identified a general group of factors attributed to rising rates of HIV/AIDS in the African-American community that include a high community viral load, a greater prevalence of sexually transmitted infections because of the lack of testing, and less access to treatment. Additionally, stigma associated with being a man who has sex with men, homosexual/same-gender-loving, bisexual, a substance user, or having AIDS is prevalent in the African-American community.

Socio-economic factors related to sexism, racism, poverty and overall lack of access to health care are additional contributing factors. A study by RAND Corporation, a non-profit research center, found that more than half of African-Americans surveyed believed the government withholds pertinent information about HIV and a cure for HIV is available but not shared with the disadvantaged.

Initially, it was true the knowledge about HIV and its affect on the immune system was sparse, while side effects and complications burdened early treatment options. However, research identified HIV as a virus, and like many viral pathogens, we can prevent or reduce transmission. You have the power to make changes going forward.

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chase insurance on the Your first task is to open market, and you know your HIV status. If cannot be denied health you do not have HIV, care based on previous find a strategy to stay or current health condinegative. Safer sex practions. tices can prevent new HIV infections. Each of Talk to friends, family, us has the strength coworkers, and neighwithin to negotiate sexbors about HIV. ual practices that are Visit our booth at Black Gay Pride 2013 Educate them that HIV reasonable. If you carry for more information about HIV/AIDS infection is preventable. the HIV virus, early prevention and treatment.

If infection does occur, detection and monitorthe virus is manageable, ing can reduce the risk even though there is no of developing AIDS and dying from AIDS-related cure. Don't be confused by reports of cures; a few complications. cases have been reported, but these were unique One possible rationale that African-Americans die and extreme circumstances involving many facfrom AIDS at a rate higher than Hispanics and tors. Ultimately, HIV is an illness like any other: Caucasians is because African-Americans wait too No one should be ashamed or afraid to discuss long to be tested. Get tested. Additionally, their health or to seek appropriate care. Educaadvances in treatment research significantly tion and discussion can help end the improved medication, meaning side effects are misconceptions and stigma associated with minimal, and taking medication allows a person HIV/AIDS. with HIV to enjoy a near-normal life expectancy.

So, enjoy our beautiful city, know your HIV status, If you have HIV, manage it. Treatment sup- manage your status, negotiate safer sex practices, presses HIV replication that, in turn, lowers the obtain access to health care test for other STIs, viral load. A lower viral load means fewer viruses and start and continue the discussion about the are in the blood and fewer viruses are available to realities of HIV. In doing so, you will alter the infect new sexual partners. Research has shown course and perception of HIV in your community, that HIV treatment alone can decrease new infec- and the community as a whole. tions by approximately 50% in the general To locate HIV testing centers call population, and by 33% in those considered high 1.800.CDC.INFO or visit WWW.HIVTEST.ORG. risk. Research has also demonstrated that in Too, I am proud to tell you that Pride Medical those with undetectable viral loads, the risk of offers free, anonymous HIV testing throughout transmission is reduced dramatically. Knowing the year. and managing your status can positively affect your individual health and the overall health of our community.

Next, gain access to health care and be tested for other sexually transmitted infections (STIs).

Other STIs damage tissue that allows HIV easy entry into the body, thereby increasing risk of infection. Your health care provider (HCP) can do this testing. If you do not have a HCP, many community clinics and health departments do testing free of cost or at a reduced rate. If you do not have health insurance, starting October 2013, the Affordable Care Act allows individuals to pur-

ored by Pride Medical, Inc.

404.355.3788 | www.PrideMedical.com Rodney Fox is an Adult Nurse Practitioner (ANP) with Pride Medical, Inc. He is a certified HIV specialist, recently completed his doctoral degree (PhD) in nursing, and is accepting new patients. Always consult your healthcare provider for specific advice or treatment. www.PrideMedical.com

Your Guide to

AtlantA BlAck Gay Pride Weekend Community-Wide Events

Female-Only Events

Wednesday, August 28 As the Bell Tolls: A Celebration of Life 7–9 p.m. • First Metropolitan Community Church of Atlanta A celebration of life, love, and togetherness In the Life Atlanta Hip Hop Karaoke & Dance Party 9 p.m.–2 a.m. • My Sister’s Room A night of fun karaoke and hot tunes My Sister’s Room/Traxx Girls

Thursday, August 29 Boi, Pull Your Pants Up! The Play 8–10 p.m. • Historic Academy of Medicine at Georgia Tech A play that stares down the growing HIV epidemic In the Life Atlanta GA Voice’s Welcome to Atlanta Pride Weekend Event 10 p.m.–4 a.m. • Halo The opening party to Atlanta Black Pride Weekend Halo & The GA Voice Sexy in the City • 10 p.m.–3 a.m. • Aurum Lounge VIP Sections, Hookah, Valet Rockstar Productions The Annual Strip Her 2013 10 p.m.–3 a.m. • My Sister’s Room The “Ultimate Pole War” MSR/Meko Lord/Traxx Girls/E. Child’s Nightlife

Friday, August 30 Mr. and Miss Atlanta Black Gay Pride 7–11 p.m. • Historic Academy of Medicine at Georgia Tech The Annual Mr. & Miss Atlanta Black Gay Pride Pageant In the Life Atlanta Meet & Greet • 7–11 p.m. • Einstein’s Free Mixer Rockstar Productions 24 // davidatlanta.com

Male-Only Events

Booze Cruise - Pretty in Pink For The Cause 7–11 p.m. (Party buses depart at 5:15 p.m.) • Lake Lanier Open Bar/Live Music/Dancing Under the Stars Traxx Girls/DJ M Welcome to Labor Day Rock Official Kickoff Party 8–10 p.m. • Museum Bar Official Kickoff Party/2 Hr. Open Bar For VIP Card Holders Rockstar Productions/Ciroc Vodka Mega Ladies Lounge 10 p.m.–4 a.m. • 200 Peachtree (Inside the Grand Atrium) With appearances by Joseline & Roahmin Murphy Traxx Girls/DJ M Labor Day Rock - Atlanta Black Pride Official Block Party 10 p.m.–4 a.m. • Museum Bar Hosted by Joseline Hernandez/VIP sections on all 3 levels/Valet/Hookah Rockstar Productions ONYX Mix & Mingle • 10 p.m. • Atlanta Eagle ONYX celebrates Atlanta Black Gay Pride In the Life Atlanta/Atlanta Eagle Grown Folks Take Over • 10 p.m.–3 a.m. • My Sister’s Room Biggest Grown Folks Affair In Atlanta with DJ Missy B DJ M/Twee/Blue Diamond Ent.

Saturday, August 31 Ladies of Literature 11 a.m.–5 p.m. • Hilton Garden Inn/Homewood Suites Award-Winning Female Authors/Book Signings/Readings Traxx Girls In the Life Atlanta Film Festival Noon–6 p.m. • Auburn Avenue Research Library Film Festival Highlighting LGBT Filmmakers In the Life Atlanta Annual Soaking Wet Pool Party 5–10 p.m. • 3425 Cascade Rd. SW, Atlanta, GA 30311 Atlanta Black Pride Mansion Pool Party Rockstar Productions/Andrew Christian

Atlanta WETher! Celebrity Block Party 3–8:30 p.m. • Club Opera Wet-T competition/MC battles/Dancer battles Traxx Girls/DJ M Saturday Night Live 10 p.m.–4 a.m. • 595 North 2 Dance Floors/VIP/3 DJ’s/Hookah/Valet/VIP Baller Sky Lounge Rockstar Productions “Big Bang Event” – Biggest Girl Party In the Country 10 p.m.–5 a.m. • Georgia Freight Depot 5 DJs/2 Dance Floors/ Performances by Kelly Rowland & Ciara Traxx Girls/DJ M Masquerade Ball 10 p.m. • Melia Hotel The Masquerade Ball To End All Balls In the Life Atlanta

Sunday, September 1 Labor Day Rock - Pure Heat Community Festival A Day of Fun Featuring Performances by Brandy Noon–8 p.m. • Piedmont Park Go Vaughn/OC Allen/PHCF 6th Annual Poetry Slam & Jazz Brunch - $35 Noon–3 p.m. • Hilton Garden Inn/Homewood Suites Live Music by Danni Cassette/Poetry Slam/Cash Prizes Traxx Girls/In the Life Atlanta/Below The Radar Be Free 7th Annual Unity Ball 4–7 p.m. • Piedmont Park A good old fashioned ball hosted by Jaimee Paige & Amiyah Scott Traxx Girls/Pure Heat Community Festival Legendary Sunday Night Main Event 10 p.m. • Opera Night Club Live Performance by K. Michelle at Midnight Rockstar Productions Celebrity Showtime Sundays 10 p.m.–5 a.m. • Mansion Elan Biggest Sunday Night Girl Party In Atlanta Traxx Girls/Traxx Atlanta/DJ M/ Pureheat

Monday, September 2 The Big Indoor Foam Hot Tub Pool Party 4–8:30 p.m. • Club XS Hosted by Aneesa Ferreira from the Real World Traxx Girls/Project Turn Around

DJ M’s Bday Bash 10 p.m.–12:45 a.m. • Diamonds of Atlanta Celebrating DJ M’s Birthday With the Ladies of Diamonds of Atlanta Traxx Girls The Annual All White Party 10 p.m.–3 a.m. • Krave All White Attire Requested/Encouraged Traxx Girls/Traxx Atlanta/Rockstar Productions Pajama Jam Party 2–6 a.m. – Inventor’s Loft The Biggest Pajama Party ATL Has Ever Seen In the Life Atlanta

Locations 200 Peachtree • 200 Peachtree St NE, 200peachtree.com, 404-522-5522 595 North • 595 North Ave, 595north.com, 404-835-2329 Atlanta Eagle • 306 Ponce De Leon Ave NE, atlantaeagle.com, 404-873-2453 Auburn Avenue Research Library • 101 Auburn Ave NE, afpls. org/aarl, 404-730-4001 Aurum Lounge • 915 Peachtree St NE, aurumlounge.com, 404-815-9426 Club Opera • 1150 Crescent Ave NE, operaatlanta.com, 404-874-0428 Club XS • 708 Spring St, xcessultralounge.com, 1-866-602-5553 Diamonds of Atlanta • 1271 Marietta Blvd NW, diamondsofatl. com, 678-974-5831 Einstein’s • 1077 Juniper St NE, einsteinsatlanta.com, 404-876-7925 First Metropolitan Community Church of Atlanta • 1379 Tullie Road, firstmcc.com, 404-325-4143 Georgia Freight Depot • 65 Martin Luther King Jr Dr SE Hilton Garden Inn/Homewood Suites • 97 10th St NW, hilton. com, 404-524-4006 Historic Academy of Medicine at Georgia Tech • 875 West Peachtree St, academy.gatech.edu, 404-894-1414 The Inventor’s Loft • 263 Decatur St, acorporateevent.com, 404-402-4220 Krave • 1100 Crescent Ave Mansion Elán • 3595 Clairmont Rd, themansionelan.com, 404-997-6900 The Meliá Atlanta Hotel • 590 West Peachtree St NW, meliaatlanta.com, 1-888-741-8931 Museum Bar • 181 Ralph David Abernathy Blvd, atlantamuseumbar.com, 404-343-2086 My Sisters Room • 1271 Glenwood Ave, mysistersroom.com, 678-705-4585 Piedmont Park • 12th St & Piedmont Ave, piedmontpark.org, 404-875-7275

@DavidAtlantaGA // 25

Geek Meets gay A Queer Rundown of Dragon Con 2013

BY MAT THE W HARRELL

T

he time has come for the fandom to celebrate as Dragon Con rounds the corner. Each year, dozens of writers, directors, and actors from the fantasy and sci-fi world gather in Atlanta to rejoice in geek culture and talk about the things that have made them famous in the world of fantasy. The 2013 event falls on the weekend of August 30–September 2.

In reality, Barrowman just married his longtime partner, Scott Gill, on July 2, 2013. Since his time hunting aliens on Torchwood, Barrowman has released a skin care line, expanded his music career, and appeared in several hits like Desperate Housewives and the 2012 film Zero Dark Thirty.

John has become a staple for LGBT progression through his work as an actor, his tell-all autobiographies, and his appearance on the reality show The Making of Me on One theme that is popular with many science fiction works which he subjected his life to research and study to delve is the issue of human rights and, quite often, sexuality. deeper into the science of homosexuality. Barrowman has So much so that there are programs during the event been praised for his energy and stage appearance so his dedicated to LGBT stories, actors, and issues. Tony Gowell, return to Dragon Con will undoubtedly be a delight. He will an office director for Dragon Con, says that “there are so be joined by other well-known names of the Doctor Who/ many of us that work together to put our LGBT community Torchwood universe like Peter Davison, Noel Clarke, Burn spin on this fantastic event each year.”

Gorman, and Eve Myles.

This year’s guest lists boasts over 220 interesting and talented people. Of those, there are countless individuals who have contributed to LGBT progression in different ways and, before the big weekend arrives, here is a rundown of some fascinating people and their contributions to our community.

Kristin Bauer

True Blood has been praised for its allegorical representation of the homosexual community through the “comingout” and struggles of vampire-kind. Sex and sexuality are a central theme of the show and the lead gay character, Lafayette (Nelson Ellis), has become one of the most John Barrowman beloved and oft quoted characters within the gay community. There is another fan favorite, though: the sexy, Known by much of the fandom as the bisexual heartthrob, bitchy vampire Pamela Swynford De Beaufort, portrayed Captain Jack Harkness, John Barrowman made his first

by Kristin Bauer. Pam has been a regular since the shows appearance in the first season of the Doctor Who continu- beginning and captures the screen with her sultry sexualation series in 2005. As a temporary companion of The ity. A prostitute in her human life, Pam is the epitome of a Doctor, Barrowman’s character stole hearts and had male woman embracing her sexuality and has been shown with and female fans alike swooning. His involvement with the numerous female lovers throughout the series. Currently show eventually led to him taking the lead in the spinoff se- Pam is in a relationship of sorts with her progeny, Tara, and ries Torchwood. In this supernatural FBI-of-sorts thriller we through that we get to see a very touching lesbian romance learn more about the history of Barrowman’s character and emerge. True Blood has never been shy about bringing watch a relationship grow between him and Ianto Jones forth and normalizing homosexual sex and relationships (Gareth David-Lloyd). and on-screen relationships, like Pam and Tara’s, open new doors of opportunity for the LGBT community.

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Rutina Wesley

the indie hit Big Gay Love. The film looks at an overweight man’s struggle to find love in the gay world and provides Wesley’s character on the same groundbreaking show, and interesting comment on the triviality of appearance Tara Thornton, has become known as one of the toughest and vanity in much of the LGBT community. The film gives women on television. From growing up supporting an alco- audiences a closer look at the lives of different and diverse holic mother to losing the love of her life to being blasted individuals in the gay world and works to break the gender in the head by the rounds of a shotgun, Tara has certainly stereotypes that often shadow gay men in popular culture. overcome a lot of obstacles. In an interview with Rolling Brendon told Out magazine that he was “happy to be part Out Magazine, Wesley addressed the tough exterior of her of an independent gay film production that gives a deeper character: “She has definitely got her reasons for being so appreciation of the diversity in the LGBT community.” defensive. I try to create layers so that the audience can see this is a wounded girl. Hopefully people get that, some Along with the guys, there will also be some great musipeople don’t.” Tara has definitely had some intense emocians, gaming icons, comic creators, and people involved tional moments that show her wounded nature and, from in the iconic sci-fi shows of the past as well as the ones the first episode, has grown into a powerful and innovative that currently have us exploring other worlds with each character. During her human life, we saw Tara experiment new season like with he sexuality and even have a partner for some time.

True Blood, Doctor When that life was ended, Tara was turned vampire by her Who, The Walking friends – which she was not happy about at first, creating Dead, Once Upon a powerful allusion to the repression of sexuality from fear a Time, and and societal condemnation. Since then, however, she has Grimm. Check become one half of the lesbian power couple that entices out Dragon Con’s viewers each episode. official website for a complete list George Takei of names that will be at this year’s It’s safe to say that almost every member of the gay com- event as well as munity knows of this groundbreaking activist. Rocketing a complete list of to fame as Hikaru Sulu in the hugely popular sci-fi series programs that will Star Trek, Takei has been a common name in the fandom be released as the for years. This trekkie came out publicly in 2005 and also day draws nearer. officially introduced his partner of 18 years, Brad Altman.

Since then he has made countless contributions to the community including becoming a spokesperson for the HRC, becoming--with Altman--the first gay couple on The Newlyweds game show, and publishing an eye-opening autobiography. Takei is also know for his incredible sense of humor (check out some of his mock PSA videos on YouTube if you haven’t already). Along with his video commentaries, he also posts humorous photos and personal insight on his Facebook and Twitter accounts, a process about which he recently published the book Oh Myyy!: There Goes the Internet. As usual, Takei can be expected to address everything from the cult classic Star Trek series to his work as a gay activist at this year’s Dragon Con event.

Nicholas Brendon Known best as the cute, nerdy best friend Xander on Buffy the Vampire Slayer, Brendon is no stranger to events like Dragon Con. He has been busy since the series with recurring roles in shows like Private Practice and Criminal Minds and has even taken on the role of a gay character in the 2004 film Celeste in the City. It is his latest role, however, that puts him on this queer rundown. Brendon took on his second role as a gay character playing Andy in @DavidAtlantaGA // 29

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Turning the Page: The LGBT Side of the Decatur Book Festival

BY KELLI GOLDMAN

A

One Today by Richard Blanco, with Kevin Riley • 11:15 a.m.–Noon • Decatur Presbyterian Sanctuary Stage As the 2013 Inaugural poet for President Obama, Richard Blanco joined famous poets Robert Frost Modeled after the Decatur Arts Festival, Wang soon and Maya Angelou with this prestigious honor. In a enlisted Tom Bell, whom he had worked with on other statement regarding Blanco, projects before, to create and launch what would soon be one of the City of Decatur’s most loved and anticipated President Obama said, “It is events. Decatur Square seemed like a perfect location, as an honor to have Richard Blanco in our second inaugurait is bordered by Agnes Scott College, a MARTA station and tion…His work is well-suiting for an opening that will is in close proximity to Emory University. celebrate the strength and diversity of our great country.”

During this session, Blanco will read excerpts from his In its seventh year, the 2013 Decatur Book Festival boasts book For All of Us Today: An Inaugural Poet’s Journey, a handful of high profile authors, more kid and adult-friend- selections from his other poetry books, and of course, will read his poem One Today. ly activities, and more strategic partnerships, as well as the introduction of their new Programming Director, Phillip Rafshoon. This year also includes a large LGBT track, with The City of Devi by Manil 16 LGBT events and readers around town.

Suri, with Parul Hinzen • 12:30–1:15 p.m. • Marriott Conference Center, Ballroom B Author of The Age of Shiva, The Death and Vishnu and the City of Devi, Manil Suri will share passages from his August 31 most recent book. The story of a whirlwind of cyberTorn: Rescuing the Gospel from the Gays vs. Christians terrorism and the threat of a Debate by Justin Lee • 10–10:45 a.m. • Marriott nuclear attack on India from Conference Center Auditorium Pakistan and the search for the lead character’s missing Founder of the Gay Christian Network, Justin Lee’s book examines the Gay vs. Christian debate, focusing on the husband is unraveled in his latest work of fiction, The City destruction of Church over the falsities associated with this of Devi. issue. By encouraging open and honest dialogue between Picking Up the Pieces by Ashok Rajamani and Christal the two groups, Lee hopes to dispel the myths regarding Preley • 1:45–2:30 p.m. • Eddie’s Attic this age-old debate, and introducing a tolerant and cohesive union between the Gay and Christian communities.

Join these two debut offers as they read their memoirs tlanta is a city of festivals. Every year we boast hundreds, from Farmer’s Markets to one-day fundraisers to big events like the Dogwood Festival, the Decatur Arts Festival, Gay Pride, the Inman Park Festival, Sweetwater 420 Fest…the list goes on. So in February 2005, after realizing the Metro Atlanta area didn’t have an annual book festival, Daren Wang, founder of the Decatur Book Festival, decided to change that.

2013 Decatur Book Festival LGBT Track

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Fairyland: A Memoir of My Father by Alysia Abbott • 1:15–2 p.m. • Marriott Conference Center, Ballroom B Dear Universe: Letter of Affirmation and Empowerment With a Masters in Fine for All of Us by Yolo Akili • 3–3:45 p.m. • Marriott Arts from the New York Conference Center Auditorium City’s New School, Alysia For about a decade, Yolo Akili has worked as an emotional Abbott currently resides in wellness and anti-violence counselor for at-risk youth and Massachusettes with her men. Here, she reads from her book, a collection of letters husband and two kids. After regarding the transformation of our lives, spiritually and her father died of AIDS is socially.

1992, she took it upon herself to put his story into words, drawing from his journals My 1980s and Other Essays by Wayne Koestenbaum and her memories. with Richard Eldredge, Interviewer • 3–3:45 p.m. • Eddie’s Attic Spies, Lies and Lovers with authors Fiona Zedde, Skyy Cultural critic and poet Wayne Koestenbaum reads from and Nikki Rashan • 1:15–2 p.m. • Marriott Conference his autobiography, which delivers creativity, passion and Center Auditorium insight into the raw disclosures of events in his life.

These three authors will read from their books in the area of black gay pride.

Victory: The Triumphant Gay Revolution by Linda American Homophobia with authors David McConnell Hirshman • 4:15–5 p.m. • and Stacy Braukman • 2:30–3:15 p.m. • City Hall Old Courthouse Stage Stage Author, lawyer and political These two authors will discuss the history, present and columnist Linda Hirshman is future of homophobia in America, based on their respective the author of Get to Work: A knowledge in the areas of male sexual violence and the Manifesto for Women of the prejudice in the Johns Commission of the 50s and 60s in World and many others. In Florida. her work, she reflects on the roads to political and social Damage with authors Chelsea Rathburn and Carl equality for gay people Phillips • 2:30–3:15 p.m. • Old Courthouse Stage with an in-depth political These two poets will read on the subject of the damage analysis. people inflict on themselves and others. about their struggles and successes in recovering from different physical and emotional issues. Rajamani’s The Day My Brain Exploded recounts his recovery from a brain aneurysm while Presley’s focuses on her father’s PTSD.

This Assignment is So Gay – Book Launch! with authors Megan Volpert, Theresa David, Pablo Miguel Martinez, Jee Leong Koh and Ed Madden • 5:30–6:30 p.m. • Decatur High School Stage September 1

Radical Relations: Lesbian Mothers, Gay Fathers and Their Children in the U.S. – Book Launch! by Daniel Winunwe Rivers • 3:45–4:30 p.m. • City Hall Stage Author of the first history of gay and lesbian parents and the children in America, Daniel Winunwe Rivers reads from his book.

Outsider Artists with authors Jim Elledge, Robert Shere and Diana McClintock • Noon–12:45 p.m. • Decatur Library Stage Featuring several poem anthologies including For Teachers: Cure For Teachers’ Back-To-School Blues, For LGBTIQ: How it Gets Better One Queer Teacher at a Time and For Poets: Poems More Vivid Than Textbook or Yearbook, this event is the book launch for several local authors and educators.

Transitions: Memoirs of a Transsexual Woman by Tracee McDaniel • 5–5:45 p.m. • Marriott Conference Center Author and Founder and CEO of Juxtaposed Center for Transformation, Inc. in Atlanta, Tracee McDaniel reads excerpts Love is Love with authors Sara Farizan and David from her book which chronicles Levithan • 1–1:45 p.m. • Teen Stage her journey as a transgender From the AJC Decatur Book Festival’s website, “Two YA woman, shedding much needed light on the transgender authors share their new books about gay teen relationships.” community as a whole. @DavidAtlantaGA // 35

Sweet Southern Comfort: 24 Years of Trailblazing for the Transgender Community

By Kelli Goldman

Sometimes, what’s between your legs doesn’t match what’s in your heart, soul and mind.

The transgender community of Atlanta, friends and allies, is happy to welcome back the Southern Comfort Conference in its 24th year, from Sept. 3–8 at the Crowne Plaza Hotel, Atlanta Perimeter at Ravinia.

Theater, golfing at the course designed by Bobby Jones in Chastain Park, wine tasting, a trip to the 57th Fighter Group, take dance lessons, meet new friends at socials and even get the chance to attend Prom as you always had hoped.

Go ahead, wear that tux or dress you couldn’t back in High School – you’re safe and free to be you at SCC.

The conference isn’t just a place to learn and grow, but it is a place to blossom. “Truthfully and honestly, if I had never The four-day symposium supports and educates the “T” of been hired to work at Southern Comfort, I probably never our LGBT community, which unfortunately seems to periodi- would have transitioned. I look forward to [the conference] all cally fade into the background. It is important that all mem- year,” Jack Daddi said. “My transition is just since January, bers of the LGBT community have the same opportunities so I am an older person doing this. I’ve been finding the and availability of resources and support as everyone else. journey to be very exciting and horrifying at the same time.”

For this, the Southern Comfort Conference is a must-attend.

Southern Comfort welcomes with open arms any and all Jack Ingraham, more lovingly and commonly known around genders, sexual orientations, races, colors and creeds, ”as the LGBT scene as Jack Daddi, is a trans man co-owner and long as transgender is an issue in your life,” according to operator of Atlanta’s own Spotlight Entertainment. For the the SCC 2013 website. Past and present attendees and past six years, he has attended SCC as a volunteer and as volunteers have never felt safer or more included than at the a lesbian, running karaoke for the event. This year, he will conference. finally be attending as a trans man, and is looking forward to several seminars and workshops in particular.

“I have to thank SCC for helping me find my way. It means the world to me,” said Jack Daddi. “The people there are “There is a workshop on transgender and Georgia law. I so wonderful, and I’ve met so many amazing men and am very interested in that,” Ingraham said. “There’s also women…they’re so giving, and so willing to help the coma couple on female to male surgeries; I am going to check munity. I am hoping to be able to help them a little more in those out.” whatever capacity I can.”

Registration opens at 8:30 a.m. in the hotel lobby on Wednesday, Sept. 4, and will close at noon. Princess Day, a new event to the conference and a self-admitted work-inprogress will be from 9 a.m.–2:30 p.m.

More geared to First Time Outers, it is a day to do the girly things you’ve always wanted to do in preparation for the conference ahead. It costs $15 for breakfast and transportation, and $20 to participate on-site. The activities include nails, lunch, makeup and mall shopping; all a la carte activities you budget for on your own.

Some seminars you can expect at SCC range from incredibly lighthearted and playful to discussions of very serious issues in the community. From transgender prosthetics to homophobia in the trans community and everything in between, seminars are held daily from 9 a.m.–5 p.m.

To volunteer for the conference, register to attend and check out their full schedule of events and seminars, visit sccatl.org.

Want to know more information about being transgender? Check out some of the many resources available in the Atlanta area and beyond, includLater that same day, registration will reopen from 2–5 ing the Trans Health Initiative through the Atlanta p.m. in the lobby. Each day is full of not only informative, Feminist Health Center at feministcenter.org, Atlanta educational and rewarding workshops and seminars, but the Gender Explorations at atlantagender.org or find good entertainment end of things is jam-packed, too. Attend an resources available locally and online through GLAAD Atlanta Movie Tour, an evening at Agatha’s Mystery Dinner at glaad.org/transgender.

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@DavidAtlantaGA // 37

38 // davidatlanta.com

The Legendary

Children Take on Atlanta’s Drag Scene

photo: Kevin O

photo: Blane Bussey

WHAT IT IS: Legendary Children is a photography show that brings together the works of five photographers with local drag queens as the subjects. The name comes from the seminal queer classic film Paris is Burning, and its subjects are all part of the new face of Atlanta drag. The queens come from shows like Gurlfrandz, !glitz!, The Other Show and Tossed Salad. They’re involved in social activism and active in social media. They’re the talk of Atlanta’s drag scene. photo:Jon Dean

Legendary Children is part of Atlanta Celebrates Photography, and it’s the only ACP event that includes a live drag performance (Saturday, Sept. 28, 7–11 p.m.).

The live show is emceed by Nicole Paige Brooks and includes performances from the subjects of the photo series.

WHO’S INVOLVED: The photographers are Blane Bussey, Jon Dean, Blake England, Kevin O, and Matthew Terrell. As for the subjects, those include: Brigitte Bidet, Cayenne Rouge, Edie Cheezburger, Ellisorous Rex, Evah Destruction, Jaye Lish, Kryean Kelly, Lavonia Elbertson, Mo’Dest Volgare, and Violet Chachki.

photo: Matthew Terrell

WHEN AND WHERE IT IS: The show opens on Sept. 1 at Gallery 1526 (1526 DeKalb Ave. NE), which is open from 10 a.m.–4 p.m.

Monday–Friday. For more information, visit legendarychildren.tumblr.com or acpinfo.org.

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photo: Blake England

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SAVANNAH SURVIVAL GUIDE

BY JOSEPH BROWNELL

A

fter our revealing Lady Chablis interview last month, we thought it’d be fun to visit our coastal, queer sister city, Savannah. You see Savannah has an active gay community, of course has Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil and the Lady Chablis to boast about and even has those adorable hipster, SCAD boys and girls running around starting next month. Plus, where else in Georgia can you ask for a to-go cup and walk to the next bar with your drink in hand? Sounds like heaven, eh?

and hometown band Cusses, who rocked out The Earl recently in Atlanta.

Sure, I-16 doesn’t boast the most exciting drive, but since our sister city is only four hours away, it surprises us that we often forget about Savannah when planning weekend getaways. And with Savannah Pride just around the corner, now is the time to (re)discover Savannah.

Nightlife

But maybe you aren’t planning on attending Savannah Pride or if you are, you’re wondering what else there is to do. Well, hold on to this week’s David Atlanta for our Savannah Survival Guide which highlights the best nightlife, dining, shopping and lodging options that Savannah has to offer.

Let’s not pretend that you aren’t reading this on a barstool at your favorite Atlanta hangout with a drink in hand, so we must reiterate the wonderful privilege the City of Savannah bestows upon its drinkers: whether it’s River Street or City Market, you can wander around the For those who have missed out, Savannah Pride has boasted some big names in entertainment over the years. city with your drink in hand.

From RuPaul to last year’s headliner, the underrated powerhouse JoJo, Savannah Pride has become quite the Now that we have cleared that up, Savannah boasts two southern pride festival. Held this year on September 14, gay-owned bars. The first, Club One, boasts three levels Savannah is gearing up for another exciting year with for all your entertainment needs. Club One hosts drag performances on its Cabaret floor, a dance floor on its Roxxxy Andrews from Season 5 of RuPaul’s Drag Race 46 // davidatlanta.com

street level and in its basement you’ll find pool tables, a video wall and plenty of areas to mingle. Though there is usually a small cover on the weekends, you’ll be sure to find the largest gay crowd at Club One.

River Street

For those looking for entertainment, Club One is hosting the inimitable Sandra Bernhard September 8 and the Lady Chablis just a day earlier on September 7. Headed a different weekend? The Club One cast, from country queen Layla Foxx (she bleeds gravy, y’all) and emcee Destiny to the dance divas Tiffany DuBois and Motion, will definitely whet your drag appetite.

In addition to Club One, Chuck’s Bar is another Savannah gay-owned bar. Chuck’s has undergone a bit of metamorphosis over the years but the journey down those steep stairs leading to its alley home is well worth the stumble … just not the fall. Chuck’s boasts the most diverse crowd you’ll find in Savannah. From hipsters and SCAD students to your regular Joe Gay, everyone who walks through Chuck’s doors inherently leaves the drama outside. The dive bar is known for its karaoke and its dollar bill covered bar and walls. With pool tables and a dart board on one end and trailer-tastic couches and board games on the other, Chuck’s is Savannah’s Cheers.

Dining Savannah has dining options for any budget. Hands down the best and cheapest dining option (lunch or dinner) is pizza from Vinnie Van GoGo’s in City Market. It’s always packed and cash only, so you’ll want to hit an ATM first.

Club One

Of course, a major tourist trap in Savannah is Paula Deen’s The Lady and Sons, but after her troubles this year, this may be one restaurant to skip. It’s up to you… we won’t judge.

If you’re anything like us, we seek out LGBT-owned and LGBT-friendly restaurants wherever we go. Savannah has quite a few options. First, you’ll want to check out the dining and drink options at gay-owned bar · food.

With its ever-changing list of Asian-inspired small plates and moderately priced wine list, bar · food has become a favorite of Savannah’s LGBT community.

bar · food

Another gay-owned eatery in Savannah, located in its Midtown district, is Joe’s Homemade. The café boasts freshly prepared sandwiches, salads and desserts.

Additionally, Joe’s Homemade donates a share of its proceeds each month back into the Savannah community through local non-profits and organizations.

But this is supposed to be vacation, right? Aren’t we supposed to treat ourselves? Savannah has plenty of top restaurants for those with a bigger vacationing budget. @DavidAtlantaGA // 47

Local 11ten

Located on the roof of The Bohemian Hotel, Rocks boasts a cozy fire pit, live entertainment, and an engaging tapas-style menu with extensive drink and martini choices and lets you overlook the Savannah River at night.

What about brunch you ask? Well, the brunch experience in Atlanta is quite different than Savannah but be sure to check out B. Matthews Bakery, Firefly Café and Goose Feathers for reasonably priced brunch selections.

Finally, we know you need your caffeine fix. Sure, there is a Starbuck’s right downtown but be sure to check out gay-friendly coffeehouse, The Sentient Bean.

Shopping Looking for that perfect outfit to wear when you hit the town in Savannah? Well you can skip The Gap, Banana Republic and Urban Outfitters all downtown because there are plenty of other places to find that perfect pair of pants or sexy shirt.

Civvies

First, check out Civvies downtown for a great selection of new and used clothing. If Civvies were a song, it would definitely be “Thrift Shop” by Macklemore and Ryan Lewis. This thrift shop has some of the best deals around and will please even the most discerning of tastemakers.

If labels are more your thing, check out the Marc Jacobs store downtown, which has been a great supporter of Savannah Pride.

While, Arc has just announced it would close its doors (sniff, sniff) be sure to look for its replacement shop, Prospector Co.. This shop will cater to those who treat their skin with purpose and will have some great skin and shaving products for both men and women.

Lodging Going out, eating, drinking and shopping are all great but where are you going to lay your head down at night?

Be sure to check out the menus at 17Hundred90, The Olde Pink House and Local 11ten for delicious dining. Be sure to also check out Perch, the rooftop bar at Local 11ten.

Speaking of rooftop bars, for great ambience and food, be sure to check out gay-friendly Rocks on the Roof.

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While there are plenty of affordable hotel chains in downtown and more moderately priced motel chains in Midtown, your first choice should be The Bohemian Hotel. Resting like a beacon above River Street, The Bohemian Hotel offers vintage allure blended with modern style. Not only will you have the best room in Savannah but also access to the coolest down rooftop hangout, Rocks on the River.

If The Bohemian Hotel is booked, check out several of the gay-friendly B&B’s around Savannah. You can find a complete list of B&B’s and other gay-friendly businesses on gaysavannah.com.

2013 VIP PASS

ON SALE THROUGH SEPTEMBER 30

WHEN YOU BUY A VIP FESTIVAL PASS, YOUR BENEFITS INCLUDE: b ADMISSION TO THE VIP/SPONSOR PARTY ON 10/11 b USE OF THE KAISER PERMANENTE VIP HOSPITALITY CENTER IN PIEDMONT PARK b USE OF THE CELEBRITY CRUISES VIP SEATING AREA IN THE MEADOW

QUANTITIES ARE LIMITED, SO DON'T DELAY! PURCHASE YOUR PASS ONLINE: WWW.ATLANTAPRIDE.ORG/DONATE/ @DavidAtlantaGA // 49

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- since 1997 -

- since 1997 -

Named People Magazine’s “Best Wedding Cakes in Georgia!” www.metrobakery.com

opardi z z A is r h C By THE CIVIL WARS, The Civil Wars Nitty-gritty details are few concerning the highly publicized drama between The Civil Wars twosome Joy Williams and John Paul White, but the fallout was at least intense enough to cause a tour cancellation, talk of a possible breakup and this album: a gothic-dark speculative set of neo-folk songs strewn with wounded hearts, religious undertones and the looming sense that this won’t end well. And if it doesn’t, if the only good that comes of their personal turmoil is this, then at least they can be remembered for breakup songs so good Adele is probably pissed they’re not on her next album. “The One that Got Away” aptly turns that cliché on its head; swelling with red-hot intensity at the chorus and then closing with a cacophony of telling guitar rips, it emotes post-split bitterness and regret. Williams takes lead on most of the tunes, with White shadowing her vocals – they make harmonious heaven on said single – or stepping in to magnify the power of them. “Dust to Dust” is raw and gut-wrenching with just Williams alone, but that moodiness takes on a new, more sorrowful life when White tiptoes in; the same goes for “Eavesdrop,” a beauty built on Coldplaymounting guitars that eerily – and sadly – parallels the duo’s personal lives: “Don’t say that it’s over / Oh no, say it ain’t so.” Because after this triumph, that would truly be devastating.

Grade: A56 // davidatlanta.com

BACKSTREET BOYS, In a World Like This Backstreet’s back … but is it really all right? It’s not, unless you’re still holding onto the nostalgia of them as boys. Then, they could get away with a certain degree of cheese and artistic growing pains. But nearly two decades later, the original quintet – Kevin Richardson returns! – are still all wink-wink with the same shameless set of lovey-dovey pop and fifth-grade-journal outpourings. The worst offenders are “One Phone Call,” not even good enough to sound like a Lonely Island parody of the Backstreet Boys, and “Feels Like Home,” which takes you around the world – name-dropping just about every major city – on the dullest expedition of your life.

The Max Martin-produced title track has charm (and its video celebrates marriage equality), but aside from the acoustic-y verses, this is the same bland boy-band template these guys have been hawking their whole career.

“Breathe,” however, is a harmony pleaser, and “Trust Me” – a Jason Mraz move that could benefit future outings – delights with its summery Starbucks vibe. Even “Soldier,” despite being innocuously cookiecutter, decently works those stacked percussions into an earwormy hook. Hey, it’s the Backstreet Boys; no one’s expecting miracles.

Grade: C

ALSO OUT

GREGORY ALAN ISAKOV, The Weatherman It’s easy to write off Gregory Alan Isakov’s third fulllength because of the mellowness of these hammockswinging songs. But Isakov has another feather in his hat with this sumptuous set: The Weatherman is a truly stunning release on which the South African-born singer-songwriter eases into your conscious with little more than his thoughtful words (“If it weren’t for second chances, we’d all be alone”), that dreamy voice and the magic of his melodies.

VINCE GILL & PAUL FRANKLIN, Bakersfield Country king Vince Gill swings back to old-time twang for Bakersfield, his honky-tonk collaboration with steel guitarist Paul Franklin. Tipping their hats to a bygone era, the gents take on tracks steeped in the early 1960s sound made famous by Buck Owens and Merle Haggard. All 10 songs are resurrected with fanboy delight and know-how, and Gill’s vocals – especially when he falsetto dips on Haggard’s lesser-known “I Can’t Be Myself” – are quite possibly the best they’ve ever been. @DavidAtlantaGA // 57

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theScene 1

10th & Piedmont 991 Piedmont Ave. NE

14 Cowtippers

27 Jungle

40 The Model T

2

Amsterdam 502 Amsterdam Ave. NE

15 Daiquiri Factory

28 Las Margaritas

41 Tripps

3

Atlanta Eagle 306 Ponce De Leon Ave. NE

16 Einstein's

29 Manifest 4 U

42 Urban Body Fitness

4

BJ Roosters 2043 Cheshire Bridge Rd.

17 F.R.O.G.S

30 Mixx

43 Woof's

5

Blake's 227 10th St. NE

18 Felix's

31 Oscar's

44 XS Ultra Lounge

6

Bliss 2284 Cheshire Bridge Rd.

19 Flex Spa

32 Opus 1

7

Boy Next Door 1447 Piedmont Ave. NE

20 Friends

33 Roxx

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Brushstrokes 1510 Piedmont Ave. NE

21 Gatsby's

34 Sam's Hair Salon

Le Buzz 585 Franklin Rd. SE Marietta, GA

9

Bubbles Salon 1579 Monroe Dr. NE

22 Gilbert's

35 Southern Nights

Mary's 1287 Glenwood Ave. SE

10 Bulldogs

23 Gravity Fitness

36 Ten Atlanta

My Sister's Room 1271 Glenwood Ave. SE

11 Burkhart's

24 Heretic

37 The Den

Club Rush 2715 Buford Hwy. NE

12 Capulets

25 Hobnob

38 The Fifth Ivory

Sister Louisa’s Church 466 Edgewood Ave. SE

13 Club Eros

26 Joe's on Juniper

39 The Hideaway

Swinging Richard's 1400 Northside Dr. NW

893 Peachtree St. NE 1492 Piedmont Ave. NE 1510 Piedmont Ave. NE 2219 Faulkner Rd. NE

1600 Piedmont Ave. NE 889 W. Peachtree Str. NW 1077 Juniper St. NE 931 Monroe Cir. NE 1510 Piedmont Ave. NE 76 4th St. NW

2115 Faulkner Rd. NE

699 Ponce De Leon Ave. NE

1842 Cheshire Bridge Rd.

1931 Piedmont Cir. NE

2103 Faulkner Rd. NE

500 Amsterdam Ave. NE

1492 Piedmont Ave. NE

2425 Piedmont Rd. NE

1510 Piedmont Ave. NE

708 Spring Str. NW Not Shown: Cockpit 465 Boulevard SE

1086 Alco St. NE

736 Ponce De Leon Ave. NE 931 Monroe Dr. NE 219 10th St. NE

1824 Cheshire Bridge Rd. 2000 Cheshire Bridge Rd. 2205 Cheshire Bridge Rd.

2201 Faulkner Rd. NE 2069 Cheshire Bridge Rd. 1551 Piedmont Ave. NE 1049 Juniper Str. NE

990 Piedmont Ave. Ne 2135 Liddell Dr. NE 794 Juniper Str. NE 1544 Piedmont Ave. NE

Bar/Cocktails

Retail

Dining

Billiards/Darts

Dancing

Dancers

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Leather

Hair/Beauty

Fitness

Drag

Baths/Spa

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got an upcoming event? calendar@davidatlanta.com

MONDAY

Brooks and Phoenix 10pm model t Party with Elvis - 9 pm BLAKE’S Game Night - Trivia/Family Feud oscar’s Ruby Redd’s After Party - 10 pm 11pm swinging richards 2-4-1 VIP Room BURKHART’S Blue Monday Karaoke w/ ten atlanta Drag-a-maki w/ Kitty Angelica D’Paige 11:30pm LeClaw 8:30pm COCKPIT Big Red Cup All Day, specials tripp’s Free Taco Bar 5pm EAGLE Music Videos with Scotty xcess ultra lounge Raquell Lord’s FELIX’S Free Pool Talent Show 10:30pm, Sophia Mcintosh & FRIENDS Manic Mondays DJ opens - 2 pm Fab 5 +1 11:30pm, 18+ HERETIC Jukebox drag with Knomie Moore woof’s Food Special, Trivia 8pm HIDEAWAY $2.50 Domestic Beer JUNGLE Stars of the Century Show 11pm MODEL T Monday Night Madness Free blake’s Texas Hold’Em Poker 7pm, “Guys Pool - 10pm - 2am OSCAR’S Service Industry Night with Eric & Dolls” with Shawnna Brooks. 11pm BURKHART’S Twisted Thursday w/ swinging richards Hip-Hop Night, Phoenix 11:30pm Sponsored by Hennessy 8:30pm cockpit Dirty Boy Bingo w/ Ruby Redd ten atlanta Poker Night TRIPP’S Monday Nite Madness w/ Tana 9pm eagle Balls Deep Karaoke w/ Mikey felix’s Karaoke w/ Brett & Tyler 10pm WOOF’S Texas Hold ‘Em Poker 8pm friends Where Girls Who Like Girls Meet Girls with Regina Simms 8-closing Gilbert’s Wine tasting 6-10pm BLAKE’S POP! Karaoke with Sasie Monroe heretic 3 Legged Cowboy Night 9pm and Suzanne Gleeson 11pm hideaway Service Industry Night BURKHART’S Trivia Tuesday Karaoke w/ jungle Members Only with Evah Angelica D’Paige 11:30pm Destruction 10pm club rush “Tipsy Tuesday” 18 & up mIXX Gentlemen Cocktails with Aaron & Open until 4am Matt at 6pm COCKPIT 80s Party 9pm, specials 5-8pm model t Party Time with Michael - 9 pm EAGLE Tuesdays w/ Tony oscar’s Twisted Thursday with Eric FELIX’S Smirnoff Martini Night swinging richards 2-4-1 VIP & Entry FRIENDS Let’s Make A Deal with Ken 6 pm xcess ultra lounge Turnt Up Thursday Gilbert’s Industry Night (complementary woof’s Food Special, Country Music 7pm pizza after 10pm) HERETIC 2-Step Tuesday, dance till 11pm HIDEAWAY Trivia with Wil 9 pm 10th & piedmont Live DJ 10 PM JUNGLE Ruby’s Tuesdays 8 pm blake’s 5-9pm TGIF, Charlie’s Angels w/ MIXX Piano with David Reeb at 8pm Charlie Brown 11pm MODEL T Wii Tuesday Afternoons 2pm BURKHART’S Fab Five w/ Angelica 9pm $2.50 beer / $3.0 well vodka OSCAR’S Show Tune Tuesday with Chad- D’Paige 11:30pm club rush “Got Leche” Free entry until 8 pm 11pm 18 & up - Open until 4am SWINGING RICHARDS 1/2 Price cover cockpit DJ Diablo Rojo, guest VJ/DJ’s WOOF’S Industry Day Free Wii 5pm eagle DJ Dance Party friends Happy Time Friday Kelly & Ken 6 pm heretic FUR Friday BLAKE’S 5-9pm Doug’s party pop hits, hideaway Kick Back Fridays!

Charlie Harding’s Hard Body Party 11 pm jungle Dinner and a Movie 7 pm; BURKHART’S Humpday Karaoke w/ The Other Show with Edie Cheezburger Darlene Majewski 11:30pm 9:30pm; Jungle POP 11pm COCKPIT Balls Deep Karaoke 10pm mixx Ron’s End of the Week Party 4pm | EAGLE Underwear Night with Tony Grown & Sexy Dance 10 pm Friends Hump Night with Regina Simms model t Friday Bagels - 10 am | Texas Gilbert’s Karaoke 10pm-2am Holdem Poker 8 pm heretic Pig Dance Black Out Party DJ oscar’s Music Video Night Stan Jackson 10pm-3am NO COVER swinging richards T-Shirt Review,$10 hideaway 1/2 Price Beer ten atlanta Music by George Greenlee jungle Dragamaniacs with Nicole Paige tripp’s Afternoon Delights 4pm

THURSDAY

TUESDAY

FRIDAY

WEDNESDAY

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woof’s Atlanta’s Best Social Night 6pm

SATURDAY

10th & piedmont Live DJ 10 PM blake’s Open at 1pm, Daring Divas 11pm BURKHART’S Extravaganza w/ Shavonna B. Brooks 11:30pm cockpit DJ Diablo Rojo, guest VJ/DJ’s eagle DJ Dance Party felix’s Karaoke w/ Brett & Tyler 10pm friends Free Pool and Cheap beer with DJ! 2 pm - 6 pm Gilbert’s All you care to eat brunch (cooked to order) 11-4pm heretic Varies: Club Night or 3 Legged Cowboy Night - 10pm hideaway Open at 12:30pm! Saturday Night Party jungle The Q 9 pm; Club Night, Various Guest DJ’s mixx Guest DJ’s Dance 10pm model t Texas Holdem Poker - 3 pm | Party with the M&M Boiz - 9 pm oscar’s DJ Christopher Kind swinging richards T-Shirt Review $10 ten atlanta Music by George Greenlee tripp’s Afternoon Cookout 3pm xcess ultra lounge 25+ FREE til 12am woof’s Game Day All Day

SUNDAY

10th & piedmont Bellini Brunch 11 AM & T-Dance 4 PM blake’s Open at 1pm - High Energy Music & Video w/ Bill Berdeaux & Daryl Cox BURKHART’S Armorettes Drag Show club rush Hip Hop and R&B - 18 & up Open until 4am cockpit PBR Beer Bust felix’s Bloody Marys & Mimosas friends Open @ 2pm; Dinner @ 4pm while it lasts Gilbert’s All you care to eat brunch (cooked to order) 11-4pm and Karaoke 6-11:30pm hideaway Atlanta’s Favorite Bloody Mary Bar! 12:30 pm Jungle The Day After with Knomie Moore 12-3pm; Sweet T with Bubba Dee and Wild Cherry Sucret 7pm las margaritas All You Can Eat til 3pm mixx Old School Sunday Dance 7pm model t Sunday Dinner with Ron 3:30 pm oscar’s Sunday Fun-day ten atlanta Music by George Greenlee tripp’s Buffet of Goodness - 3 pm | Karaoke - 7 pm woof’s Bloody Mary bar, PBR special

theRundown Trans March Planning Wednesday, August 28 • 8 p.m. • Charis (1189 Euclid Ave NE)

Datebook

Charis houses Atlanta Pride’s meeting for this year’s Trans March. For more information, visit atlantapride.org or charisbooksandmore.com.

ABear Comedy Show

Wednesday, August 28 • 8 p.m. • Jungle (2115 Faulkner Rd NE)

Ian Aber hosts this monthly comedy show, which benefits Lost-n-Found Youth. For more information, visit lostnfoundyouth.org.

Privé Wet Wednesdays Wednesday, August 28 • Privé (960 Spring St)

Promoters for Wet Wednesday want to bring a bit of Miami and New York club life to Atlanta with this event. The House Hunters serve as DJs for the night, while Phoenix and Nicole Paige Brooks present a drag show in the lounge area. For more information, visit facebook.com/events/322645381204718/.

Labor Day Weekend Labor Day Weekend in Atlanta is absolutely packed every year.

Between Atlanta Black Gay Pride and Dragon Con alone, prepare for visitors everywhere you go. Just east of the city, there’s also the Decatur Book Festival. Want to know what’s going on? We have a full rundown of Atlanta Black Gay Pride and LGBT-specific Decatur Book Festival events in this book, while a list of LGBT-specific events at Dragon Con is listed on our website at davidatlanta.com.

Meanwhile, check out some of the other things you can do this week on this page!

An Author Event with Sara Farizan

Thursday, August 29 • 7:30 p.m. • Charis (1189 Euclid Ave NE)

Author Sara Farizan discusses her new Young Adult book, If You Could Be Mine, and the political realities that inspired the stories. For more information, visit charisbooksandmore. com.

Bear Invasion

Friday, August 30 • 9 p.m. • Heretic (2069 Cheshire Bridge Rd) The recurring Heretic event brings in DJs Jonny Mack and Sean Mawc. For more information, visit hereticatlanta.com.

The Other Show - And Then Some Friday, August 30 • 9:30 p.m. • Heretic (2115 Faulkner Rd NE)

The weekly drag show at Jungle features special guests Mo’Dest Volgare, Marcella Grrleen Redd, Roxy C. Moorecox and DAX(exclamationPOINT). For more information, visit jungleatl.com.

PFLAG Atlanta First Monday Support Group Monday, Sept. 2 • 7:30 p.m.

• Unitarian Universalist Congregation (1911 Cliff Valley Way NE)

PFLAG Atlanta hosts their monthly support meeting for the North Druid Hills area. For more information, visit pflagatl.org.

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THIS WEEK IN THEATRES Ain’t Them Bodies Saints: Set in 1970s Texas Hill Country, the film tells the story of an outlaw, his wife, and the sheriff who gets caught between them.

Closed Circuit: A high-profile terrorism case brings two ex-lovers together on a defense team, as they find themselves drawn into – and fighting against – a sinister conspiracy.

Getaway: Ethan Hawke plays a former race car driver who’s forced into a mission in order to save his wife, alongside a young hacker played by Selena Gomez.

The Grandmaster: Inspired by kung fu master Ip Man, the film follows China after the fall of its last dynasty and during the golden age of Chinese martial arts.

One Direction: This Is Us: Want to experience the sound of a theater full of pre-teen girls screaming their little lungs out? Here’s your chance! One Direction: This Is Us follows Niall, Liam, Harry, Louis and Zayn as they travel the globe on tour.

@DavidAtlantaGA // 65

Comics

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fairyscopes ARIES (March 20 – April 19): Today will be frustrating

LIBRA (September 23 – October 22): Your day may

for you as your clarity dissolves into a haze of befuddlement.

That used to happen a lot in college, but for now it’s puzzling.

Avoid making any decisions or agreements until this blows over. Find some soft sand to stick your head in.

not go as you scheduled today, so be flexible. Meetings will be postponed, appointments will be canceled and your date with that cute guy probably won’t happen. So have Plan B ready; you may need it.

TAURUS (April 20 – May 20): If you’re in the mood

SCORPIO (October 23 – November 21): Take some

for love, it’s time to think about marketing yourself to the masses. It’s never too early to plan wardrobe, hairstyle and where best to see and be seen. Do some research and analysis to figure out things like demographics and target audience.

time to ponder some of life’s mysteries today: the Loch Ness Monster, crop circles, Bigfoot, the bizarre, unexplainable popularity of Rufus Wainwright. There are some things that are impossible to figure out.

GEMINI (May 21- June 20): Communicate electronically today, because spoken word will be useless.

Misinterpretation by others will have you turning to e-mail, text and PDA’s to get your messages across. The less said the better today; let machines do the talking for you.

SAGITTARIUS (November 22 – December 20): Today’s a good one to expand your horizons. Plan a trip to somewhere foreign and exotic. If you can’t do that, visit different parts of your town and meet new people. Do whatever breaks you out of your rut of ennui.

CANCER (June 21- July 22): Don’t get involved with

CAPRICORN (December 21 – January 19): Others

anything you need to pay attention to today. You just won’t be able to focus on details. Go peacefully through your day, because for once, ignorance really is bliss.

will be impressed by your ability to communicate effectively with everyone. They may want you to communicate to a wider audience. They’ll hint that your powers could be used for good. They may try to convince you to enter politics.

That’s when you’ll run far, far away.

LEO (July 23 – August 22): Nothing will strip you of

AQUARIUS (January 20 – February 18): You’ll eschew music for the masses today, and listen to something innovative and daring. It could be from other cultures, or it could be centuries old. Anything’s cool as long as John Mayer isn’t involved.

your pride faster than being ripped off. Being the victim of identity theft is easy these days, so be on your guard. Don’t be so free with your social security number and personal info, and only do business with the most reputable people and businesses.

VIRGO (August 23 – September 22): Being the know-it-all loudmouth leaves little room for interjection from others, and that’s how you like it. Respect other people’s opinions today and they might respect you in general. Being the center of attention is pretty hollow when you’re the only one paying attention.

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PISCES (February 19 – March 19): Today’s a good one to try out some ideas you’ve been working on. They’re not doing any good just sitting in your brain, so let them out.

Some may fly and others may crash, but you won’t know until you try.

CLASSIFIEDS HELP WANTED

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I know they say to go slow, but I’m just Russian to have more gay anal sex.

Girl, just because you changed your last name to a celebrity’s doesn’t mean you are one!

Being flamboyant is completely okay. It takes more balls to be yourself than to fake being masculine.

Would the men in Atlanta please stop bringing women friends to the gay male strip bars with them? Seriously, stop it!

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How many people complaining about Creep of the Week also complain about Bitch, Please?

Where do straight people keep all their trophies for “knowing someone was gay all along”?

I’m about ready for Lady Gaga to change her name to “Björk for Dummies.”

Sometimes I get the urge to post an underwear shot on Instagram. Then I remember my family members will see it. Then I remember they’ve seen worse.

I recently met DJ David Knapp spinning in Atlanta. It’s so nice that there are still genuine people in the party scene.

Plus his boyfriend is hot!

I’m all for some homoerotic tension between Henry Cavill and Ben Affleck – I mean, Superman and Batman. *This page reflects the bitchiness of the community not David Atlanta or its publisher (although we’re bitchy too!)