Issuu

Issue 711 Aug 29 – Sept 4 2012

David Atlanta Contents 8

Issue 12 | Aug 29 – Sept 4 | 2012

WTF!?!? Tidbits

10 Seen@ Oscar’s Anniversary 14 Elle Varner Gives a ‘Refill’ 19 What A Girl Wants 22 Seen@ Mary’s

26 Black Gay Pride ATL 2012 34 BarTab Map: Guide to Gay Atlanta

36 BarTab Week: Calendar 38 Complete Black Gay Pride ATL Calendar 42 The Emory Clinic Hope Project 46 Brent Star: WassUpNATL 49 Winner Winner Chicken Dinner 50 Sneak Peak at Dragon Con: Part 2 55 Opinion: Anti-Homophobe Shooting 59 Classifieds 60 Seen@ Atlanta Eagle 62 Bitch Session

DRT Media Group Inc. 404.418.8901 CONTACT Advertising | sales@davidatlanta.com Classifieds | classifieds@davidatlanta.com Editor / Press Releases | press@davidatlanta.com Calendar Listings | calendar@davidatlanta.com Bitch Column | bitch@davidatanta.com National Ad Rep | Rivendell Media | 908-232-2021 Like us on Facebook! DavidAtlanta Follow us on Twitter! DavidMagazineGA

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.

6 | david atlanta

davidatlanta | 7

WTF!?!? Tidbits Joe Jonas appeared on Late Night with Jimmy Fallon, where he played a game of Rock, Paper, Scissors, Pie. When I read the headlines describing Joe Jonas as having received a “cream pie” to the face, this is not what I had in mind.

TMZ posted a 30-second clip of OctoMom’s attempted foray into music (a single called “Sexy Party”). Until now, I didn’t realize that someone people are such bad singers that not even Auto-Tune can keep them in tune. Crap, forgot about Kim K. Shia LaBeouf says he’s done with big-budget films because of the

artistic constraints placed on him by studios, and will be doing a legitimate sex scene (meaning penetration and all) in his next film, Nymphomaniac (also starring Charlotte Gainsbourg, Nicole Kidman, and Willem Dafoe). This news would be so much more exciting if this were 2008 and he didn’t look like a homeless man. Fingers crossed it’ll be shot strictly from the neck down.

PETA’s newest target is Lady Gaga after she was spotted wearing an Hermès coat that PETA swears is authentic fur (though the company does offer faux-fur options). Gaga responded by saying, “You see a carcass, I see a museum pièce de résistance.” I’d respect her a lot more if she’d drop the pretense and just say, “Fuck you, PETA, I do what I want” instead of trying to make it into an issue of artistic freedom. James Franco is making a movie about James Franco, and also Lindsay Lohan. Per E! News, “According to the casting breakdown, Franco is looking for a male to fill ‘James Franco Types ages 13, 21, 30, 45, and 60.’ Regarding his LiLo lookalike, the thesp is seeking a female to play a ‘Lindsay Lohan type ages 13, 21, 30, 45 and 60.’” The irony, of course, is that 26-year-old Lindsay could easily fill the roles of Lilo at 45 and 60. In her heavily promoted interview with Oprah, Rihanna said she still

loves Chris Brown and that the two “have maintained a very close friendship ever since the restraining order has been dropped.” Sigh. Okay, if part of the terms of your friendship with something includes waiting for the dissolution of a restraining order, it’s more than likely not a healthy relationship.

Jennifer Aniston is engag—zzzz. Yeah, still boring.

In serious news, Phyllis Diller has passed away at 95 and 68-year-old

director Tony Scott (Top Gun, True Romance, Man on Fire) leapt to his death from the Vincent Thomas Bridge in San Pedro, CA after allegedly being diagnosed with inoperable brain cancer. May they both rest in peace. by Lucas Witherspoon 8 | david atlanta

seen @ @ Oscar’s Anniversary Party

see more photos by Rory Evans at davidatlanta.com

10 | davidatlanta

Ad: Diagio

Atlanta Get its ‘Refill’ of Elle Varner by Joseph Brownell

“I

was bred to do this,” Elle Varner declares with the ideal combination of humility and confidence. After all, her recently released debut album Perfectly Imperfect entered Billboard’s Top 200 album chart at number four and album’s second single “Refill” went top 10. Varner spent her childhood immersed in music; her parents were successful touring musicians, but just because you were raised around the likes of Maxwell, Barry White and Rahsaan Patterson doesn’t mean that you know how you’re going to break into the business. “I can’t imagine myself doing anything else but I didn’t how I was going to do it,” admits Varner. “I wasn’t the most confident, especially in college. I thought maybe I’ll start as an intern and slide my CD on someone’s desk one day . . . I never thought it would happen the way it happened or on the level that it happened.” Regardless of how, audiences will surely be glad it happened when Varner takes the stage Friday during this weekend’s Black Gay Pride events. Friday night’s performances are the capstone to a crazy month of album promotion for Varner. Varner admits that release week for the hardest week. “It was really crazy but it was meant to be that way to show me it wasn’t going to be easy and that this is what [I] want,” Varner shared.

On Perfectly Imperfect, Varner harkens the days of 90s R&B when lyrical content superseded big-name production. But the album is not without production value. On second single “Refill” Varner switches things up and showcases a fiddle on the track -something practically unheard of in an R&B song. While the album is steeped in neo-soul, Varner’s unique infectious energy is showcased through her fresh singer/songwriter lyrics. When listening to the album, it’s no surprise that Varner counts Tracy Chapman, Ella Fitzgerald and Alanis Morissette among artists that inspire her. Varner’s storytelling capabilities are deftly illuminated on two album highlights. “Damn Good Friends”, a track that gay audiences will recognize from indie, lesbian coming-of-age film Pariah, and “Not Tonight”, Varner’s favorite song to perform live. “When I perform ‘Not Tonight’ I can hear a pin drop in the room,” Varner shares. “I really get to play the spaces in that song and I love it.” In addition to the album’s storytelling, Perfectly Imperfect includes positive themes without being preachy. The album closes with “So Fly”, a song whose message of self-acceptance in a society where we consistently criticize and compare ourselves to others has all the makings of a gay anthem. And that’s something that Varner doesn’t take lightly. “That makes me very proud. That my songs could represent an entire community,” Varner beams. “That’s huge for me, especially in the times that we’re in.” To read the full interview visit www.davidatlanta.com You can catch Elle Varner Friday August 31st. Elle will perform at 595 North. More info – Twitter: @ellevarner, Facebook: www.facebook.com/ElleVarnerMusic, web: www. ellevarner.com davidatlanta | 15

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18 | davidatlanta

What a Girl Wants

Labor-free Labor Day! Maximum Fun, Minimum Effort

by Rian Ashlei

ith your last three day long summer weekend peeking towards the horizon, I only have one piece of advice to offer; don’t work too hard. A lazy Labor Day is the most ideal way to spend your last extended summer weekend with your pals, drinking and relaxing and not grilling a thing. My suggestion, make it a group effort and buy as much pre-made as you possibly can.

Party Potluck Make your friends provide sides. Encourage them to check out small shops that make specialty side items and unique preparations of traditional food. Shops like Star Provisions, Alon’s Bakery, Spotted Trotter or even Whole Foods (if you choose to go corporate) have dozen of exceptional food offerings and creations to spark interest at the picnic table. I go crazy for the sausage made at Delia’s Chicken Sausage Stand, and Whole Foods has at least three different takes on potato salad at any time. If you do decide to grill, think simple, hot dogs and hamburgers should do it; chicken requires too much focus and effort. A few packs of Nathan’s hot dogs should please everyone and salt and pepper in your ground beef never flavored a hamburger better. If you want to add interest to your burgers, add barbecue sauce to the meat before you grill them. A minimal amount should do; too much causes the meat to break a part.

motion to create bite sized nibbles of fruit. Pour white rum or vodka in the watermelon fruit bowl for an adult fruit salad. Whatever you decide to make, try you damndest to cook everything in foil. That way when it’s done, you can either wrap it up in itself or toss it in the trash can and not have to worry about clean up.

Décor Celebrate the end of summer relaxation by filling up your space with all the things that you love about summer. And remember, simplicity is key on Labor-less Labor Day. A traditional red and white-checkered tablecloth should work just fine to anchor your Labor Day theme. Not much else to do from there. Fill up old glass jars and vases with fresh flowers from your garden or local flower shop and spread them around the table. They won’t be around much longer so enjoy them. If you have an outdoor patio space, lounge in style. Think hammocks, lounge chairs, blankets, pillows; laziness to the extreme. And don’t forget your citronella candles. The mosquitoes are also well aware this is the coming of the end and they are out for the kill. Whatever you decide to do, make sure minimal effort is at the forefront. I’ll be working on Labor Day and it will make my heart glad to know you are enjoying your last day off before the winter months close in on us.

Another minimal effort delight would be a fruit salad. Add interest by hollowing out a watermelon and filling it with cut fruit. It looks pretty and only requires you to move your knife wielding wrists in a delicate up and down

david atlanta | 19

22 | davidatlanta

see more photos by Rory Evans at davidatlanta.com

@ Mary’s

seen @

Ad: BND

History, Stigmas, and Parties Galore!

by Van Gower

he Atlanta Pride festival may still be a little under two months away, but the city won’t be lacking for a massive gay celebration in the meantime. Atlanta Black Pride 2012, organized by In The Life Atlanta (ITLA), takes over the Meliá Atlanta Hotel from August 29 and runs through September 3. Billed as “the world’s largest Pride celebration for African-American lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people,” Black Gay Pride has grown from humble local beginnings into an event that draws revelers from around the world. The festival kicks off on Wednesday, August 29 with a candlelight vigil at Metropolitan Community Church of Atlanta. On Thursday evening, attendees can pre-register for events, as well as attend a “Chocolate and Crème” VIP welcome reception and gala ball. Friday hits the ground running with a full day of registration, where attendees may register for the events, workshops, and other Pride components they wish to attend. Also taking place all day is the Black Pride Marketplace. The two-day marketplace will feature vendors offering merchandise including books, hair care products, apparel, soaps and aromatherapy oils, adult entertainment magazines, novelty items, art, videos, and of course GLBT-themed items.

Festival-goers can officially kick off their Black Gay Pride weekend with a Friday night opening ceremony, followed by “Speakfire,” an open mic celebration of erotic poetry. Saturday will be the first day to offer a smorgasbord of cultural and wellness offerings. From 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., be sure to visit the free Health & Life Expo, with sponsors including AID Atlanta, Lambda Legal, Georgia Equality, and L.A. Fitness. The day also boasts the marketplace, a community luncheon and “State of Black Gay America” summit, and a host of workshops covering topics of direct interest to the AfricanAmerican GLBT experience. “The workshops are a prominent part of the weekend because it provides education, training, and informative presentations that individuals may not otherwise have access to,” said Raymond R. Duke, president of In The Life Atlanta. “The workshops are open to anyone, but for the most part these are LGBTQIA presenters of African descent, presenting to LGBTQIA audiences of African descent. It’s us educating us, not to mention some of the presenters don’t get to Georgia, and most of the attendees don’t get to travel to see the presenters in person.” Also notable on Saturday is the “See Us in the Life” film festival, which will present films of interest to the black gay community and will include a gala red carpet ceremony. The festival’s

See our Black Gay Pride Calendar on page 38 for a complete listing of over 40 events at 19 venues

26 | davidatlanta

featured film is TLA Releasing’s Finding Me: Truth. On Sunday, the marketplace and workshops return. The day will also include a jazz brunch, interfaith service, and attendance at the Atlanta Dream vs. Connecticut Sun basketball game at Philips Arena. The day will round out with the second annual “The White Party” with Tha Bigdogs and a fashion show. Black Gay Pride closes out on Monday with registration and the marketplace. With Black Gay Pride being unique in taking place over the course of six days, as opposed to the fewer number many other Prides are held in, the inspiration for the expanded number of days might have been strategic, Duke theorizes. “I wasn’t one of the original founders or planners, but I’m guessing [the inspiration] was cultural education and entertainment, and making the best use of reaching those participants during the weekend in the midst of their evening entertainment options and overall holiday celebrating,” Duke said. “I am an advocate of dropping some science in the consciousness of our brothers and sisters in

between their parties and special events that the club promoters provide, and the overall plans that one might already have in place.” In addition to the official events hosted by In The Life Atlanta, revelers can dive into a bevy of sizzling, off-the-chain nightlife parties and other throw downs presented by RockStars Production, Traxx Atlanta, and The Lion’s Den Atlanta. For complete details and a lineup schedule, check out www.labordayrock.com. RockStars’ most hotly anticipated party will be the Friday, August 31 performance by RCA Records/MBK Entertainment, Inc. recording artist Elle Varner.

Challenges – Present and Future Producing any large-scale event or festival has logistical and financial challenges, but for a nonprofit organization like In The Life Atlanta, those obstacles can seem higher when putting on Black Gay Pride, particularly when relying largely on sponsorships and in-kind support. “We have had some of our major sponsors regretfully decline to assist us this year, blaming the economy,” said Duke. “This year, we have Kaiser Permanente, AID Atlanta, and Positive Impact ... and a host of in-kind supporters.” In contrast to Atlanta Pride, which is free, Black Gay Pride charges admissions to its events. Because ITLA is a nonprofit, funds it raises are channeled directly into overhead costs including fees set by host hotels for food and beverages, audio-visual needs, printing of the Pride Guide, and presenting the health fair and workshops.

photo by Marla Stewart

Dancers at ATL Black Gay Pride 2007 ITLA also endeavors to make as sizable a donation as possible “to an organization that supports LBGTQIA,” Duke noted. “Historically, we solicit funds based upon our event needs, so we often end each year not owing anyone. However, we don’t have much in our accounts afterwards,” Duke said. “Most people have a gross misconception about our organization’s finances. We welcome them to learn more and then donate more.” Transitioning from its humble beginnings as an informal Labor Day barbecue among friends into the major annual event it has become, Black Gay Pride has encountered its fair share of hurdles that had to be surmounted and that remain today. “I can only speak to the ones I’ve seen since 2005 to date, [and] they are the lack of major sponsors, and/or the confusion of major sponsors as to who and what they are sponsoring, and

david atlanta | 29

Offical Black Gay Pride ATL www.inthelifeatl.com www.facebook.com/inthelifeatl Twitter: @ATLBlkPride trying to get native Atlantans or those who have relocated here to support the weekend,” Duke said. “We still battle our own community. The event weekend pie is so large, yet some would consume it all if allowed. Clearly, we have black LGBTQIA’s who live in communities, yet we are still working to form a genuine, sincere, formative black LGBTQIA community.”

Stigmas, and a rich history Black Gay Pride is well attended now, and yet there persists a reluctance – then and now – from many African-American GLBT’s to a festival where participation would make them openly visible in their communities, suggests Duke. White GLBT’s can admire celebrities like Anderson Cooper, Jim Parsons (The Big Bang Theory), Neil Patrick Harris (How I Met Your Mother), Zachary Quinto (Star Trek and American Horror Story), Jodie Foster, Ellen DeGeneres, Melissa Etheridge, Ian McKellen (X-Men and The Lord of the Rings), and others. However, for African-American gays and lesbians, the choices of openly gay, contemporary A-list public figures to serve as inspirational role models seem far fewer: Lee Daniels, director of Precious and the forthcoming The Paperboy; Wanda Sykes; RuPaul; rising hip-hop singer Frank Ocean; and, perhaps, CNN anchor Don Lemon. In the black community, “[there is] still a stigma attached. People who lay a foundation almost always benefit from its privilege,” Duke said. “I think that some people don’t want to

Party Promoters www.labordayrock.com www.atlantaprideweekend.com www.wassupnatl.com be a representative pseudo poster child, not to mention having to deal with the stigma and what all flows [with] it. It’s a process.” Famous black GLBT’s in history included Lorraine Hansberry (playwright, author of A Raisin in the Sun); Josephine Baker (singer); the late E. Lynn Harris (author); Alvin Ailey (choreographer); Langston Hughes (poet, playwright, author); James Baldwin (playwright, essayist and novelist); Angela Davis (activist); Audre Lorde (author); and Bayard Rustin, a friend and personal advisor of Martin Luther King, Jr. Rustin organized King’s historic 1963 March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom. With that said, for all the lack of prominent contemporary black gay leaders, those legendary black queer creative artists and community leaders were trailblazers and unwitting inspiration for modern organizations like In The Life Atlanta. “Those who have been forthcoming and open about not just being LGBTQIA, but about who they are and what they stand for and what they inspire others to aspire to, have made a tremendous impact on groups and individuals now,” Duke said.

david atlanta | 31

BARTAB | map CHESHIRE BRIDGE & BUCKHEAD

ANSLEY

C2 BJ Roosters 2345 Cheshire Bridge Rd. www.

A22 Amsterdam 502 Amsterdam Ave. www.amster-

C3 Bliss Atlanta 2284 Cheshire Bridge Rd. www.

A23 Burkhart’s 1492 Piedmont Ave. www.burkharts.

C4 Club Rush (formerly Chaparral) 2715 Buford Hwy C5 Heretic 2069 Cheshire Bridge Rd. www.hereticat-

A24 Felix’s 1510 Piedmont Ave A25 Mixx 1492 Piedmont Ave - B www.mixxatlanta.com A26 Oscar’s Atlanta 1510 Piedmont Ave NE www.

C6 Jungle 2115 Faulkner Rd. www.jungleclubatlanta.

A27 The Hideaway 1544 Piedmont Rd NE, Suite 124

C7 Las Margaritas 1842 Cheshire Bridge Rd. www.

A28 Brushstrokes/Capulets 1510 Piedmont Ave.

C36 Mood Lounge 3081 E. Shadowlawn Ave. NE C8 Opus 1 1086 Alco St. C9 Tripps 1931 Piedmont Circle www.trippsatlanta.

A29 Boy Next Door 1447 Piedmont Rd. www.boynext-

myspace.com/bjroostersatl blissofatlanta.com

www.chaparralalternative.com

lanta.com com

lasmargaritasmidtown.com

damatlanta.com

com

oscarsatlanta.com

www.atlantahideaway.com

www.brushstrokesatlanta.com door.biz

com

C10 Woofs 2425 Piedmont Rd NE www.woofsatlanta.

PONCE & the Highlands

com

P30 Atlanta Eagle 306 Ponce de Leon Ave. www.

com

P31 Friends on Ponce 736 Ponce de Leon Ave.

org

P32 Model T’s 699 Ponce De Leon Ave NE #11 www.

Rd. www.southernnights.com

P30 Rawhide Leather at the Eagle 404.881.0031

C11 Gravity Fitness 201 Faulkner Rd. www.gravityatl. C12 Manifest4U 2103 Faulkner Rd. www.manifest4u. C13 Southern Nights Videos 2205 Cheshire Bridge MIDTOWN & WESTSIDE

atlantaeagle.com

www.friendsonponce-atl.com

modeltatlanta.com

Edgewood & EAST ATLANTA

M14 Blake’s on the Park 227 10th St. www.blake-

E35 The Cockpit 465 Boulevard Ave. www.thecockpit-

M15 Bulldogs 893 Peachtree St. M16 Daiquiri Factory 889 W. Peachtree St., 30309

E38 Sister Louisa’s Church 466 Edgewood Ave.

sontheparkatlanta.com

facebook.com/pages/The-Daiquiri-Factory M17 Gilberts 219 10th St. www.gilbertscafe.com M18 Joe’s on Juniper 1049 Juniper St www.joesonjuniper.com M19 Swinging Richards 1400 Northside Dr. www. swingingrichards.com M20 XS Ultra Lounge 708 Spring St., 30308 www. traxxatlanta.com M21 Flex 76 4th St. www.flexbaths.com

atlanta.blogspot.com

www.sisterlouisaschurch.com

E33 Mary’s 1287 Glenwood Ave. www.marysatlanta. com

E34 My Sisters Room 1271 Glenwood Ave www. mysistersroom.com

E37 Asylum 543 Flat Shoals Ave. www.asylumatl.com/

OUTER LIMITS

LeBuzz 585 Franklin Rd SE, Marietta www.thenewlebuzz.com

L38 Phase One 4933 Memorial Dr., Stone Mountain, 30083 www.wassupnatl.com

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Bedford Pl

Courtland

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Barnett St

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Crescent

Spring St

W Peachtree St

Cypress

Argonne Ave

Northside Dr

North Ave

L38

Stone Mountain

e y NE E Freedom Pkw Freedom ■ Carter Presidential Park d Ralph McGill Blv Willoughby Way NE Library

Peachtree

P30

Ponce De Leon Ave

Techwood

St Charles

P31 P32

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8th St

■ 85 Civic Center

Virginia Ave VIRGINIA HIGHLANDS

10th St

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Peachtree Center MARTA ■ P'tree M Center

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Centennial Olympic Park ■ Aquarium ■ ■ Georgia CNN ■ Dome Center

6th St 5th St 4th St

MARTA North Ave

MARTA M Civic Center

M14 M17

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Simpson

11th St

M15

M20 ■ Fox Theatre

North Ave

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M18

M16

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M21

Piedmont Park

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Georgia Tech ■

Botanical ■ Garden A22

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MARTA Midtown

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A29

M19

High Museum & Woodruff Arts Center ■ MARTA M Arts Center

Mon

A28 A25

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A alb M DeKMARTA Inman Park

Sheridan Rd

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E33 E34 E37

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BARTAB | week MONDAY

BLAKE’S Trivia w/ Mary Edith Pitts @ 11pm $250 prize, then New Drag on the Edge w/ Nicole Paige Brooks BURKHART’S Blue Monday Karaoke w/ Angelica D’Paige 11:30pm COCKPIT Big Red Cup All Day, specials EAGLE Comedy TV- Free Pool FELIX’S Free Pool FRIENDS DJ opens at 2pm HERETIC Play w/ Eddie 4pm-11pm HIDEAWAY $2.50 Domestic Beer JUNGLE Stars of the Century Show 11pm MODEL T Monday Night Madness 9pm Oscar’s Midtown Martini Club 4pm. Service Industry Night 9pm Tripp’s Monday Night Madness 9pm Woof’s Texas Hold ‘Em Poker 8pm

TUESDAY

BLAKE’S Karaoke w Jerry Cyccone 11pm BURKHART’S Trivia Tuesday Karaoke w/ Angelica D’Paige 11:30pm Club Rush HipHop til 4am, $5 COCKPIT 80s Party 9pm, specials 5-8pm EAGLE Tuesdays w/ Tony FELIX’S Smirnoff Martini Night FRIENDS Let’s Make a Deal 6pm HERETIC 2-Step Tuesday, dance till 11pm HIDEAWAY TEAM Trivia w/ Will 9pm Mixx Piano Night w/ David Reeb 8pm MODEL T Texas Hold’em Poker 9:30pm Oscar’s Show Tune Tuesday 8pm SWINGING RICHARDS 1/2 Price cover Tripp’s Ladies Night 9pm Woof’s Industry Day Free Wii 5pm

WEDNESDAY

BLAKE’S 5-9pm Doug’s party pop hits, The “Lust and Bust Show”11 pm BURKHART’S Humpday Karaoke w/ Darlene Majewski 11:30pm COCKPIT Balls Deep Karaoke 10pm EAGLE 80’s Music w/ Travis FRIENDS Team Trivia 8pm

36 | davidatlanta

got an upcoming event? calendar@davidatlanta.com

HERETIC 25¢ Keystone Light ,No Cover! HIDEAWAY Trivia w/ Will 9pm Jungle Big Gay Game Show 3rd Wed Mixx Texas Hold’em Poker 7pm MODEL T Karaoke 10pm Oscar’s ReBooT Retro 8pm SWINGING RICHARDS 2-4-1 VIP Room Tripp’s Free Taco Bar 5pm XCESS ULTRA LOUNGE Raquell Lord’s Talent Show @ 10:30pm, Sophia Mcintosh & Fab 5 +1 @11:30pm, 18+ Woof’s Food Special, Trivia 8pm

THURSDAY

BLAKE’S $5 burgers, Texas Hold’Em Poker 7pm, Shawnna Factor Show 11pm BURKHART’S Twisted Thursday w/ Phoenix 11:30pm COCKPIT Dirty Boy Bingo w/ Ruby Redd EAGLE Karaoke w/ Mikey FELIX’S Karaoke w/ Brett & Tyler 10pm FRIENDS Girls Who Like Girls Meet Girls HERETIC 3 Legged Cowboy Night 9pm HIDEAWAY Service Industry Night JUNGLE Cherry Pop Thursday! LAS MARGARITAS Crazy Bitch Bingo 7:30pm Mixx The Toolbox 6pm MODEL T Party-Time 9pm Oscar’s Kickin It w/ Kyle 8pm Phase One $3 Thurs Entry + drinks SWINGING RICHARDS 2-4-1 VIP & Entry Tripp’s Spotlight Karaoke 9pm XCESS ULTRA LOUNGE Turnt Up Thursday Woof’s Food Special, Country Music 7pm

FRIDAY

BLAKE’S 5-9pm TGIF, Bingo w/ Bubba & Bill 7pm, 1/2 price appetizers, Charlie’s Angels w/ Charlie Brown 11pm BURKHART’S Fab Five w/ Angelica D’Paige 11:30pm Club Rush Got Leche? til 4am, $10 COCKPIT DJ Diablo Rojo, guest VJ/DJ’s EAGLE DJ Dance Party FRIENDS Happy Times w/ Brian & Ken

HERETIC no cover B4 11pm HIDEAWAY After Work Martini Madness JUNGLE Club Night, Various DJ’s Mixx Grown & Sexy Dance 10pm MODEL T Saturday Night Live 9pm Oscar’s 80’s Retro Vidz 8pm SWINGING RICHARDS T-Shirt Review, $10 Tripp’s Afternoon Delights 4pm Woof’s Atlanta’s Best Social Night 6pm

SATURDAY

BLAKE’S opens 1pm, Daring Divas 11pm BURKHART’S Extravaganza w/ Shavonna B. Brooks 11:30pm Club Rush Dance Party COCKPIT DJ Diablo Rojo, guest VJ/DJ’s EAGLE DJ Dance Party FELIX’S Karaoke w/ Brett & Tyler 10pm FRIENDS Afternoons w/ Bob! 2pm HERETIC Varies: Club Night or 3 Legged Cowboy Night - 10pm JUNGLE Club Night, Various Guest DJ’s. Mixx Guest DJ’s Dance 10pm MODEL T Sunday Dinner 3:30pm Oscar’s Total Request Videos 8pm SWINGING RICHARDS T-Shirt Review $10 Tripp’s Afternoon Cookout 3pm XCESS ULTRA LOUNGE 25+ FREE til 12am Woof’s Game Day All Day

SUNDAY

Burkhart’s Armorettes Drag Show Blake’s ON THE PARK open 1pm, Classic Sunday “T” w/ Bill Berdeaux & Daryl Cox Club Rush Hip Hop w DJ Truz, no cover COCKPIT PBR Beer Bust FELIX’S Bloody Marys & Mimosas FRIENDS Smirnoff B Mary Bar 12:30pm HIDEAWAY Bloody Mary Bar 12:30pm LAS MARGARITAS All You Can Eat til 3pm Mixx Old School Sunday Dance 7pm MODEL T Sunday Dinner w Ron 3:30pm Tripp’s Buffet 3pm; Karaoke pm Woof’s Bloody Mary bar, PBR special

Wednesday | August 29

Friday | August

7pm

8pm – 10pm

Skate Boyz at Work it out Wednesday, Black Pride Weekend Skate Party & Kickoff Bash at Metro Skates – APW/LDR

2012 Opening Ceremony at Meliá Hotel, FREE – ITLA

9pm No Labelz Magazine Anniversary Party & Hip Hop Karaoke at My Sister’s Room; $5 Drinks all night long, Dance Floor Opens at 11 PM, FREE cover all night – APW/LDR

8pm – 12am Booze Cruise – Pretty in Pink for the Cause at Lake Lanier hosted by Juelz and Onyx from Between Women. Live performance from Eva Kennedy. All inclusive event includes drinks and food – APW/LDR

9pm

Thursday | August

6:30pm – 10pm Chocolate & Creme VIP Reception at Meliá Hotel, $10 – ITLA

10pm Black Pride Weekend Welcome to Atlanta Party at XS Ultra Lounge, $20 – APW/LDR Official Black Pride Weekend Kickoff Party at The Gold Room, $20 – APW/LDR

11pm ReLiving: Strip Show with Atlanta’s Sexy Male Dancers & Special Guest ReDickuLous (The Real Housewives of Atlanta), at Phase One, $10 – WNA

ALL WEEKEND EVENTS SAT + SUN | SEPT 1-2

10am – 5pm Workshops at Meliá Hotel, $10 day pass – ITLA

10am – 10pm Black Pride Marketplace at Meliá Hotel, FREE – ITLA

Revealed & Tower 2 Revived at The Jungle, includes Blatio Awards, Cocktails the Movie screening, DJ Trouble, MC Wild Thang, Brent Star, sexy male dancers, live performances by D. Woods, Elite Noel, Paris Bennett and more, $10 – WNA

9:30pm 5th Annual “Fire and Desire” Mini Ball Deluxe at Meliá Hotel, $20 – APW/LDR

10pm RCA Recording Artist Elle Varner Performing Live at 595 North, $20 – APW/LDR Annual Mega Friday Night Live Ladies Lounge at Club Life featuring Elle Varner, $20 – APW/LDR Grown Folks Takeover Dance Fever at My Sister’s Room Hosted by WNBA star Cheryl Ford, $20 – APW/LDR

12am-2am SpeakFire at Meliá Hotel, Open mic hosted by Lakara Foster of She Speaks Inc! and Brown Sugar Vibe, $10 – ITLA

Saturday | September 1 10am – 4pm Health Expo & Life Expo at Meliá Hotel, FREE – ITLA

11am – 4pm State of Black Gay America Summit & Community Luncheon at Meliá Hotel, Summit FREE, Luncheon $35 – ITLA

2pm– 10pm See Us in the Life Film Festival at Meliá Hotel Red Carpet 6:30pm, feature film Finding Me: Truth 7pm, $15 – ITLA

3pm– 8:30pm Atlanta WETher Celebrity Block Party at Club Primal; Wet T-shirt Contest and Joseline from VH-1 Love & Hip Hop: Atlanta, $10 – APW/LDR

4pm- 10pm Atlanta Black Pride Weekend Pool Party at Meliá Hotel, $10 – APW/LDR

6pm – 9pm 3rd Annual Flashback Throwdown & Official Black Pride Weekend J-Sette Competition at XS Ultra Lounge, $10 – APW/LDR

9pm The Vita Rebirth with special guest American Idol’s Fantasia, at The Nest, $10 – WNA

10pm Legendary Traxx Girls Big Bang Event at Georgia Freight Depot, $20 – APW/LDR Melanie Fiona Performing Live at Official Atlanta Black Pride Weekend Block Party & Festival, at XS Ultra Lounge, Quad, Apache Café, and Spring St., $20 – APW/LDR Black Pride Pub Crawl at Meliá Hotel – ITLA

Official Locations The Meliá Atlanta Hotel 590 West Peachtree St. NW, meliaatlanta.com, 1-888-741-8931 Piedmont Park 12th St. & Piedmont Ave., piedmontpark.org, 404-875-7275 XS Ultra Lounge 708 Spring St., xcessultralounge.com, 1-866-602-5553

Other Locations 595 North 595 North Ave., 595north.com, 404-835-2329 Club Life 1789 Cheshire Bridge Rd., clublifeatlanta.com, 404-593-2272 Club Primal 960 Spring St., primalnightclubatl.com, 404-745-9494 Dirty Ratts 4830 Fulton Industrial Blvd., 404-696-1213 Georgia Freight Depot 65 Martin Luther King Jr. Dr. SE Jungle Club Atlanta 2115 Faulkner Rd., jungleclubatlanta.com, 404-844-8800 Kamal’s 21 Strip Club 1905 Piedmont Rd. kamals21.com/ Luxe Ultra Lounge 1100 Crescent Ave., luxeultralounge.com, 404-537-5000 Mansion Elán 3595 Clairmont Rd., themansionelan.com, 404-997-6900 Metro Skates 1959 Metropolitan Pkwy. SW, metroplexatl.com, 404-767-7125 My Sisters Room 1271 Glenwood Ave., mysistersroom.com, 678-705-4585 The Nest (formerly Moya & Selam) 371 Clairmont Rd., 404-633-6692 Pcheen 701 Highland Avenue NE, pcheen.com, (404) 529-8800 Phase One 4933 Memorial Dr., Stone Mountain, 404-296-4895 Philips Arena1 Philips Dr., philipsarena.com, (404) 878-3000 Redmanz Restaurant 320 Luckie St., redmanz.com, 1-866-437-1916

LGBT Events Men’s Events Women’s Events david atlanta | 39

Sunday | September

11am – 3pm Gospel Brunch, Redmanz Restaurant, $10 – WNA

12pm – 3pm Soulfood Poetry Slam Jazz Brunch at Meliá Hotel, $35 – ITLA

Event Producers ITLA – inthelifeatl.com, Pride Pass $100, 678-824-ITLA APW – atlantaprideweekend.com, VIP Pass $50-250, 888-935-8729 LDR – labordayrock.com, VIP Pass $50-250, 404-697-8885 WNA – wasssupnatl.com, VIP Pass $50, 404-246-9000

12pm– 8pm Durand Robinson’s Ol Skool House Music Party and Traxx & Friends Reunion, at the House Music Pavilion in Piedmont Park – APW/LDR Atlanta Pure Heat Community Festival, at Piedmont Park, Hair battle hosted by Derek J (RHOA), J-Sette Dance Competition and more. – APW/LDR

2pm – 2am Love Hangover Party tribute to Diana Ross, at Pcheen, sidewalk DJ’s, $3 beer/shots, Diana Ross look-alike contest 8pm, $100 prize

2:30pm – 4:30pm Interfaith Service at Meliá Hotel, FREE – APW/LDR

3pm – 6pm Atlanta Dream vs. Connecticut Sun at Philips Arena, $20

8pm Fashion Show at Meliá Hotel, $25 – ITLA

10pm Celebrity Showtime Sundays, at Mansion Elán, hosted by Mamad of Love & Hiphop Atlanta, Lil Scrappy live, DJs Mary Mac + more, $20 – APW/LDR International Recording Artist (TBA) Performing Live at Georgia Freight Depot, $20 – APW/LDR

12am Renewed Underwear Party feat. underwear fashion show and underwear auction, at Dirty Rats, $10 – WNA

Monday | September

4pm – 8:30pm

4pm– 8pm

Splash Her Pool Party at Meliá Hotel, bday bash for Aneesa of Real World, $10 – APW/ LDR

Unity Ball, at Meliá Hotel, $10 – APW/LDR

10pm

6:30pm – 10pm White Party by Tha Big Dogs at Meliá Hotel, $10 til 8pm, $15 after – ITLA

7pm Django’s Grown & Sexy Old School Reunion Block Party at Redmanz Restaurant, cookout, DJ’s, $10 – WNA

Stars of the Century at The Jungle

10pm Annual All White Party at Luxe Lounge, $20 – APW/LDR DJ M Birthday Bash at Kamal’s 21 Adult Emporium, with Kamal’s Angels, $20 – APW

david atlanta | 41

A Hopeful Future:

The Emory Clinic Hope Project

by Sam Gabel

mory is on a mission. For some of those who already know of Emory’s Hope Clinic Project (you know, when you accidentally clicked on a random link and strayed away from Craigslist’s Men seeking Men section), Emory is sponsoring a revolutionary study which needs volunteers and are even willing to compensate them monetarily for their time and effort. When asked, Rodney Fox from Pride Medical shared his opinions on this scientific endeavor. The current study applies to HIV-negative individuals as the project observes and studies the interaction between varying combinations of protein antigens and the resulting interaction with a normal, healthy immune system. Pending on the success of this vaccination, the outcome could lead to a “near cure” for those who are HIV-positive by boosting their immunity system with such a large spike that eventually makes antiviral medication obsolete. An interview with an Emory representative reveals further insight into this project based on a study 7 years ago called the STEP Study, which also utilizes the double-blind format. The study was stopped due to the observance that the control group, which is the participants that receive a placebo rather than the real vaccination under investigation, actually exhibited a lower incidence of contracting the HIV virus. As he explained further into the matter, one primary reason for this skew of data was the failure to comply with the parameters of the study. The vaccine works by creating an artificial synthetic compound that mimics the HIV virus, which then tricks the immune system in responding and creating the proper defenses against HIV. When the body does come in contact with a real life

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application of the HIV virus, the body basically says to the virus, “well go away, I already have it.” If a participant under the clinical study goes to another site, for example, AID Atlanta, their swab tests look for the antibodies created in response to defending against the HIV virus, and thus, the participant is diagnosed with a preliminary positive. Specific equipment on site is vital to investigating certain chemical compounds in differentiating whether the participant contracted the real HIV virus or just reacting to the its synthetic doppelganger. Although participants are encouraged to practice safe sex, there will always remain that percentage that believes that a vaccination is the answer to all their contraceptive problems. When the study incorporates the double blind format, neither the observer nor the patient knows which group actually receives the vaccination or the placebo. Since the STEP study, research has changed drastically in the field. Emory’s Hope Clinic Project observes its patients through five years of regular office visits which incorporates blood work, and three years of follow ups. What can this medical triumph mean for the future? Pending on the vaccination’s success, for those who are HIV-positive prior to the compound’s approval, the study hopes to create an injection that eliminates the need for ingesting daily pills and reduces treatment to just a yearly or quarterly shot at your doctor’s office. To volunteer at the Hope Clinic, participate in the studies, or to request more information, please contact the Volunteer Office at 877-424-HOPE (4673). ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Sam Gabel is a food columnist for Atlanta-Restaurants.Org and a writer of short-stories (Alyson Publishing’s Ultimate Gay Erotica 2009).

davidatlanta | 43

WassUpNATL Celebrating their 10-Year Anniversary

or some, the conversation is still “why have a black gay pride?” Some see it as a “separation” from the OTHER pride. Well, I’ve said it before, just give me my cocktail and I’m celebrating ALL of them…Latino pride, Asian, etc. All of them! Actually, it’s not about “this pride vs. that pride”, how about redirect your mentality to “celebrate this pride AND that pride”. Honey, now more than ever the entire community needs to stick together, as we have been under attack lately. Remember, strength comes from unity. But back to my report! Ok so I learned a long time ago that a very small group of gay black folks got together and felt the need to celebrate OUR history and experiences as being black and gay in America. They did it again the following year and more people came, press repeat for the next couple of years and then BAM, it became what it is today! There are still events that you can attend that talk about our history AND give you all the answers. But for this particular article, I’m going to shamelessly zoom in on where to find all the sexy hot chocolate and hottest parties to go to. I decided to get my answers from one of Atlanta’s hottest leading party/club promotional groups known as WassUpNAtl, who by the way are also celebrating their 10 years of service this year.

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and Black Gay Pride! Right now I’m having lunch with the leader and CEO of WassUPnAT at a new and gay owned restaurant called Redmanz that’s located right across the street from the very fishy Aquarium of Downtown, Atlanta. Brent: First of all congrats on the 10 year anniversary! I saw all the events you’re doing this year online. Let’s start with this new restaurant, which event are you doing here and when? Mario: Well we’re doing TWO events here. The first one is a Gospel Sunday Brunch from 11am- 3pm, Sept. 2nd. It’s an opportunity for African American men to get together to fellowship in a spiritual ‘gospel-music-in-the-background’ atmosphere. Brent: Well Amen! Tell us about some of the big name artists you’ve brought to this city and who you have planned this year? Mario: Oh man, we’ve had some of EVERYBODY at our events, like Kelly Roland, Lil Kim, Fantasia— Brent: Yes ma’am for Fantasia! I heard you were having her again THIS year! Where? Mario: It’ll be that Saturday, Sept 1st at a venue call The Nest. Brent: Can’t wait. Okay now let’s talk about all those porn stars you’re bringing in. How many again? Mario: 20 Porn Stars, 10 male models, and 30 male dancers! Tink from T&T Productions, Thomas from Guaranteed Entertainment and Philip from Flava works as a team with us to make it all happen. Brent; As you reflect back over the 10 years of running your promotions group, name just ONE of the things you’re most proud of for WASSUPNATL’s role in Black Gay Pride celebrations? Mario: I believe we are trend setters. We were one of the firsts to start bringing in big name artists to Black Gay Pride and we’re first in just about everything we do, I’ve seen others try to duplicate. I’m also proud to say that after 10 years, we have branched out of Atlanta. You can go anywhere in the country now and you’ll hear people say “Oh yeah we heard of them, I got a t-shirt, I got a tank top, a dog tag…I been to their parties”. So I’m very grateful to go from being local to national. Check out their fun events! ALL THE EVENTS ARE ONLY $10 (For More Info: 404.246.9000 or visit www.wassupnatl.com). And don’t forget to look at our in depth Black Pride Calendar in this issue for the rundown on ALL the events! UNTIL next week, DON’T read the girls, instead read The Brent Star Report!

davidatlanta | 47

Winner Winner Chicken Dinner

by Clayton Morey

hese two new chicken joints are raising the bar on the causal dining scene here in Atlanta. While their approach to preparing their birds couldn’t be more different, both feature locally sourced ingredients and locally raised, antibiotic free, free-range chicken prepared fresh to order. Located on Memorial Drive just outside the eclectic East Atlanta Village neighborhood, Delia’s Chicken Sausage Stand serves up their tubular organic goodness made from her special recipe she has been perfecting over 15 years in the Atlanta food scene. Open from 7 am till 10 pm Sunday thru Thursday and 24 hours a day on Saturday and Sunday Delia’s offers plenty of opportunity enjoy her special creations. The menu features “breakfast anytime”, an eclectic assortment of chicken sausage sliders, and their signature “Slinger” (a handmade chicken sausage link served on fresh baked Holeman and Finch hoagie rolls). I had the Hot Mess, one of Delia’s famous links with chili, Wild Heaven cheese sauce, jalapenos, and the house “comeback” sauce which is definitely a don’t miss. I also tried “The Hot Chicks”; a trio of three chicken sausages patties sliders including one meatball slider, one sloppy slider (with Wild Heaven cheese sauce, pickled jalapenos, and the “comeback” sauce), and one slaw slider. If you don’t do chicken, that’s ok! Just tell them to “Cluck off” and enjoy their veggie sausage instead.

Across town, on West Decatur Road just down the street from Emory University’s main Campus, owner and visionary Michael Gurevich brings us Seven Hens. His first restaurant venture serves international twists on the classic schnitzel preparation seven days a week for lunch and dinner. It all starts with the chicken Schnitzel. The birds themselves are locally grown (grain-fed chickens sourced from a free-range farm right here in Georgia!). Then you have some decisions to make, choosing from one of the seven nationally themed preparations. Your choices are the American, the Mexican, The French, the Indian, the Chinese, the Italian, or The Traveler (a build it yourself option). Each option includes some of the cultural specific flavors of its respective nation of origin. Then choose how you want it packaged. You can have your choice of hen in a wrap, on a baguette, over a bed mixed greens, or, if you prefer to use a knife and fork, you can have it as a platter (which is just the Schnitzel on a plate with two of their house-made side dishes). I had the French, which is French seasoned breadcrumbs, lettuce, tomato, onion, Dijon mustard, and an olive tapenade aioli. I chose to have it as a wrap and paired it with a side of the red cabbage Slaw. It was “clucking” delicious! Thoughts or comments? Contact Clayton Morey at clayton@ feedinfrank.com or visit his website at www.feedinfrank. com for more restaurant reviews. Follow me on Twitter @ FeedinFrank

Delia’s Chicken Sausage Stand

Seven Hens

489 Moreland Avenue, SE Atlanta, GA 30316 404.474.9651 www.thesausagestand.com

2140 North Decatur Road Decatur, GA 30033 (404) 633-3000 www.7hens.com davidatlanta | 49

A Sneak Peek @ Part 2

by Elijah Sarkesian

abor Day Weekend is one of the busiest times of the year for Atlanta, with several events occurring simultaneously throughout the city. For the geeks among us, the most significant event just might be Dragon*Con, the largest sci-fi/fantasy convention in the Southeast. Picking up from our look at Dragon*Con in July, we have more specific looks at what to attend at this year’s event, along with some costume ideas you might want to avoid.

Top Outfits/ Items to Avoid Spartan Soldier from 300

Obviously, if you have the body for it, I won’t stop you. Let’s face it, though: 300 was a hit back in 2007. Right now, it’s the frat boy’s answer to a Dragon*Con costume idea. If you really want to show off your sexy, muscular body, find something that’s either a little more current or classic. And not overdone. Because...let’s face it, there will be plenty of soldiers already at Dragon*Con. Any Character from Chuck / Community / The Big Bang Theory Not everyone who goes to Dragon*Con has to go in costume. If you’re not going to go big, though, don’t try to cover for it by going the lazy route with characters from any geeky show set in today’s times. You can look like Sheldon or Leonard any other day of the year and get away with it. Don’t try it here. Corsets and Heels This one is less of an “avoid” and more of a 50 | davidatlanta

“carefully consider.” There are plenty of girls (and some guys) who will be wearing corsets and/or heels at Dragon*Con. That’s fine, but there are a few things to keep in mind. One, don’t make either of these items the end of your outfit. It’s easy to just throw on a corset (okay, it’s not, but you get what I’m saying…); it’s more interesting to come up with a full-fledged costume that includes a corset. Two, remember that you’ll likely be wearing this all around Dragon*Con. Do you really want to run around the convention in heels? At least be sure to bring a pair of backup flats. Generic Halloween Costumes I shouldn’t have to say this, but just to make the point clear: people who come to Dragon*Con in costume spend months, if not years, on their costumes. Nobody – and I mean nobody – wants to see you in a generic superhero costume you bought online from a company that sells the bulk of their product at Halloween. The only exception to this is if you’re a kid. Once you hit the teenage years, though, making your own costumes is important for conventions like Dragon*Con.

LGBT Events

Dragon*Con offers an enormous amount of options for sessions over its four days. While there are plenty of LGBT-friendly options, here are some sessions that specifically deal with LGBT themes and issues. Please note: all sessions listed below have been finalized, according to Dragon*Con’s official guide for the weekend. Still, keep an eye out for any date, time, or room changes, or for any cancellations.

Friday Gay Themes in Doctor Who – Doctor Who has blurred lines between sexual orientations during its run. This session will examine several of the themes presented in the series. 10 pm, Crystal Ballroom (Hilton). British Sci-Fi Media Track. GLBT Writer’s Session – 11:30 pm, Embassy D-F (Hyatt). Writer’s Track.

Saturday Feature Screening: Strange Frame: Love & Sax – The film featured in this screening is an animated sci-fi musical with lesbians. Yes, it’s definitely Dragon*Con material. Featured performers in the film include Claudia Black, Tim Curry and George Takei. 4 pm, International Ballroom South (Hyatt). Film Festival Track. Rainbow Flag Party – OutlantaCon, Atlanta’s annual

LGBT sci-fi convention, presents their annual Dragon*Con party in collaboration with the Costuming Track. 9 pm, Atlanta Ballroom (Sheraton). Costuming Track. Sex in Videogames – This session will address issues of sex, sexism, gay romance and inclusiveness in games and gaming culture. 10 pm, Rooms 209-211 (Hilton). Video Gaming Track.

Sunday LGBT on Pern – Amongst fans of the longrunning Dragonriders of Pern series, controversy has grown about the inclusion of LGBT themes. Co-author Todd McCaffrey will be weighing in on the themes in this session. 11:30 am, Vinings (Hyatt). Anne McCaffrey’s World Track. LGBTQ in YA – In this audience participationbased session, attendees will discuss whether or not representations of gay, lesbian, bisexual, trans and questioning teens are realistic in young adult literature. 4 pm, A707 (Mariott). Young Adult Literature Track.

david atlanta | 51

Opinions

Unnecessary Bloodshed Is Never a Triumph

by Lucas Witherspoon

ast week, a gunman walked into the Family Research Council’s (FRC) D.C. headquarters and opened fire on a security guard after expressing his disdain for the views of über-conservative, non-profit lobbying organization, particularly concerning those directed at the LGBT community. For years, the FRC has been fervent in pushing their “pro-family,” “pro-marriage” (read: anti-gay) agenda, going so far as to demand “criminal sanctions against homosexual behavior,” as well as labeling gay men pedophiles and a “danger to children.” In 2010, the Southern Poverty Law Center (SPLC) labeled the FRC a hate group, a designation the FRC obviously contested. Shortly after the shooting, the gunman was identified as 28-year-old Floyd Corkins II, who had been volunteering at The DC Center for the LGBT Community for the past six months. Almost immediately, 27 pro-equality organizations (as of time of writing this, the number has risen to at least 45) issued a joint statement condemning Corkins’ actions, as well as offering sympathy to the victim’s family and co-workers at the FRC. Despite the olive branch, however, the FRC and a multitude of other anti-gay groups—including the National Organization For Marriage (NOM), American Family Association (AFA), and Liberty Counsel—saw it as a chance to blame the gays, specifically targeting the SPLC. In an interview with Fox News, Perkins said, “Floyd Corkins was given a license to shoot an unarmed man by [the SPLC] that have been reckless in labeling organizations hate groups because they disagree with them on public policy.” It’s one thing to have a set of beliefs that you’re passionate about, but it’s another entirely to politicize the tragic actions of a deranged madman in order to advance those values. What Tony Perkins and the rest of these prominent

right-winged “Christians” are doing is nothing short of despicable. They’re using this deplorable act as an opportunity to demonize the entire gay community, even as the gay community rallies behind the very people who have treated us as if we’re a subhuman species for decades. For that matter, if one gay man’s violent dissent is supposed to be representative of all gay people, why shouldn’t the 84 percent—a prodigiously larger number of people than one—of U.S. prisoners who identify as Christians be representative of all Christians? Some have even ventured to accuse leading LGBT resources, such as The Advocate, as pushing an anti-Christian, antiRepublican agenda. In actuality, The Advocate is a gay news publication, and as such, they report stories that pertain to the LGBT community, including those involving discrimination, hate, and violence towards the community. By and large, the people perpetuating these qualities do so under the guise of religion and/or politics, the majority of whom identify as Christian and/or Republican/Rightist. The silver lining in all of this is that the mainstream now gets to see what types of people those behind these organizations truly are. To use a senseless act of violence that could have resulted in the death of many as a catalyst for hate-spewing brings to light what these people are actually about. They sneer at the term “antigay” because of its perceived hostile connotation, but what are we to call them when what they’ve been preaching and currently are saying comes across as nothing but virulent and not-so-subtle hate speech? What Tony Perkins and others on the Right are doing by politicizing the FRC shooting is insinuating that the unwarranted violence is somehow a victory for their cause by blaming it on the Left and the gays. The reality is that unnecessary bloodshed is never a triumph and, furthermore, a travesty for humanity as a whole. davidatlanta | 55

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The executives at Bravo must be thrilled that Kim Zolciak popped out another reality show. You have no idea how many boners you’ve caused me to have.

If God hates gays, then why the fuck are we so cute? 50 Cent: your mom was a lesbian, and you still talked all that homophobic shit. Wonder if you’d be whistling a different tune if you were still relevant.

Gay men are like Tupperware. You can always find the bottoms, but you can never find the top. You put the 6 in my 9.

I blame my lack of successful relationships on not forwarding all of those chain emails when I was in elementary school.

NOTE: Opinions expressed are those of the readers and do not reflect the opinions of David magazine.

You call it blacking out; I call it a booze nap. It sucks that there isn’t an Instagram filter that’s able to make you attractive.

True Blood this season: Best. Bloody. Merkin. Ever. You can’t buy happiness, but you can buy vodka and that’s pretty much the same thing.

I’m not playing “hard to get”... I’m playing “I wouldn’t touch you with a ten foot pole.”

Honey Boo Boo - say what you will but who is up for a road trip to McIntyre, Georgia? Totally gonna visit all the “historical sites” in the show. #HoneyBooBoo ‘You better Redneck-ognize’ I’m actually not funny. I’m just really mean and people think I’m joking.

Let’s get one thing straight. I’m not.

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