ADA Vox - Proud Times October Issue #16

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Dear Readers, We have one hell of an issue for you this month, and we are so excited about it! For our cover story we bring you an interview with American Idol contest and drag queen Ada Vox. We also have interviews with singer Michael Cagle, YouTube sensation Bryan Hawn, and the creator of The Queen Project, Ken Arpino. We will be continuing our representation of the LGBTQ letters with the letter T this month and an interview with local Spokane drag queen Arianna D. Spanic.

We would like to thank our small but mighty group of writers, editors, and designers. They work incredibly hard to bring you these stories every month, and they wouldn’t be able to do that without the continued support of our professional relationships and friends. Mostly, they wouldn’t be able to do it without the continued support of you, the reader.

Happy Halloween!

Victoria Smartt Managing Editor

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take a look at what is inside these pages 6. Kenyth’s Corner 12. Pride Journeys- Kansas City

Joey Amato

20. Michael Cagle

Mic R. Fone

40. Ken Arpino

Mic R. Fone

52. Darren Davis of TidalWave Comics

Sebastian Fortino

60. Ada Vox

Kenyth Mogan

68. Transgender

Victoria Smartt

72. New Faces of Media

Brenda Burgette

82. Through Darcelle’s Eyes

Sebastian Fortino

94. Prize Plus Size

Shane Gallagher

100. Bryan Hawn

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Kenyth Mogan

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Mic R. Fone

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Belinda Carlisle Translucent Collection Decades before Lady Gaga proclaimed that we were “Born This Way,” Belinda Carlisle told the world that “Heaven is a Place on Earth.” Reaching #1 on the Billboard charts, the song became an iconic part of the 1980’s, and Carlisle, already an established artist as the lead singer of the Go-Gos and of her own solo career, shot into the stratosphere, solidifying her status as a pop icon.

While Carlisle’s follow up singles and albums may not have experienced the same lightning in a bottle effect that Heaven did, Belinda is still deserving of her title as a diva and an icon. More than 30 years in the industry, she’s still one of the most recognizable voices in pop music. Lately she’s been experiencing a resurgence in her music in part thanks to the UK based Demon Music group.

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Demon has spent the last few years reissuing Carlisle’s back catalog, including expanded deluxe editions of all of her albums, an anthology, a singles collection, and most recently a set of translucent vinyl records celebrating 4 of Carlisle’s 8 studio albums: Heaven on Earth (blue), Runaway Horses (green), Live Your Life Be Free (red), and Real (clear). The limited editions are separate from vinyls released as part of a collection (which were colored but not translucent).

Besides the translucency of the discs, there’s nothing extra on the albums - they’re showcased just as they were when they were released, they just look cool - but that’s okay. As an audiophile I love the sound of a vinyl, and as a life-long fan of Belinda, I don’t mind spending money on her music. Pressed on 180gm heavyweight vinyl, the discs are sturdy, they sound great, and again, they just look cool. Priced at just under $24 on Amazon, they’re also not that expensive. In short, they’ll make a nice addition to any collection, so do yourself a favor and buy them.

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Kenyth’s Corner

Cher - Dancing Queen Cher, the undisputed Goddess of pop and the one true queen of the gays, releases her 26th full-length album on Friday, September 28th, and the entire world should prepare itself. The album doesn’t disappoint. It’s one gigantic explosion of sparkle and sass wrapped up in some of the most beloved songs in the world, sung by one of the world’s most beloved artists. In other words, it’s F*ing brilliant.

favorite), and of course, the album’s first single Gimme! Gimme! Gimme! (A Man After Midnight). Seriously. If you don’t buy the album, do yourself a favor, call Lady Gaga, tell her to revoke your gay card, and prepare yourself for life in Wilhemina Venable’s

Following the release of the film Mamma Mia 2: Here We Go Again, in which Cher stars as Meryl Streep’s mother (despite being only three years older), the pop icon spent the summer teasing the release via Twitter, finally making the official announcement on July 16th 2018. I, and a lot of the world’s gays, united in one collective gasp of excitement as we knew that album is like the final boss in the video game of life that you have to hear before you can truly win at the homosexual lifestyle.

Ten iconic songs. One iconic pop superstar. If you’re lucky enough to have a disco ball, it’s a full on dance party. Highlights of the album are Waterloo, Dancing Queen, Mama Mia (my personal

underground bunker, because that’s how far removed you will be from the awesomeness of a glittering, glorious, and truly one for the gay’s album.

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Kenyth’s Corner

Zipping through life on a SOUNdBOOM Electric Scooters. They’re everywhere nowadays.

When I first started seeing them parked on sidewalks, or zipping down the sidewalk, like a lot of SoCal residents, I hated them.

20.5mph combined with a 7.8ah high capacity battery that allows a travel range of around 18.6 miles, we were having too much fun to worry about boys.

Then I got on one.

We spent the entire day on the scooters, and honestly, I can’t remember the last time I had so much fun. The scooters allowed us the freedom to explore the city at greater distances then we would normally walk without the restrictions and costs of waiting for an Uber or Lyft.

It was a warm Saturday in June and my best friend and I decided we wanted to check out the PRIDE festivities. He asked me if I’d ever ridden on a scooter before. When I told him I hadn’t, he pulled out two scooters he and his boyfriend had recently purchased. They were the Sound Boom Foldable 350W Stark E-Scooter HPs. One was black and one was white.

After an initial (and comical) exercise in how to keep my balance on one of these things (I don’t even ride a bike), we were off. In the heat of the Los Angeles sun, we zipped from one end of West Hollywood to the other, breezing through the street, easily maneuvering through cars and crowds of people on their way to celebrate love and diversity.

It was a lot of fun.

The scooters were also total guy magnets. Everyone from twinks to leather daddies thought we were the cool, and thanks to the scooters, we were. But, we were too fast for them. With a max speed of

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In addition to the travel length and battery life, the scooter allows you to set the cruise control, so you can just relax and enjoy the ride.

The double braking system features a disc braking and ABS regenerative anti-lock braking system for efficient and responsive braking, which is needed because, well, there are a lot of bad drivers in LA. The scooter is also Bluetooth enabled, which allows you to connect to a smartphone and their app allows you to check battery range, set speed limits, and track your travel distance / time.

Then, once the adventure has come to an end and you’re safely back in your home, the sleek fold up design allows for easy storage. Retailing for around $449.99 it’s not a cheap project, but its craftsmanship and the joy it brings will be well worth it. I will be getting one as soon as I can.

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By Joey Amato

The only things I knew about Kansas City, Missouri prior to visiting, we legendary BBQ and the Chiefs. I went with an open mind and little exp city has been generating a lot of positive buzz as of late, so I thought I the talk was about. I found the city to be on the cusp of a breakthrough A sleeping dragon ready for its day in the sun. The next “It City” - Nash current “It City” and where I reside.

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ere the tales of pectations. The I’d see what all h so to speak. hville being the

For starters, Kansas City airport is literally the smallest international airport I’ve ever been to. But that will all change in the next few years as it undergoes a major transformation.

Icelandair just began flying direct routes to its capital city of Reykjavik and other routes are being added regularly.

The 21c Museum Hotel served as my home for the weekend. The small chain is known for embracing the LGBT community and is located in cities that aren’t always known for being LGBT-friendly destinations (Des Moines, Lexington, Fayetteville, among others), so staying here is always a safe and comfortable option. This particular property is located in the historic Savoy Hotel in downtown Kansas City. The hotel opened this summer and is led by a welcoming, knowledgeable, and quite attractive staff. The one downside of the property is the fitness center, which is has serious acoustic problems. Furthermore, the free weights are located in a dark corner of the gym, a problem that can easily be fixed but is a bit uncomfortable currently.

for the Performing Arts. As I was approaching the building, I thought to myself how similar it looked to the Sydney Opera House, and sure enough, it was designed by the same architect. The Kauffman Center is one of the most technically advanced performing arts centers in the nation, with each of its two major concert halls designed to be acoustically perfect. The halls share a common area which the designer hoped would serve as a space where people attending different shows can comingle.

Kauffman Center

Having arrived a bit later in the day, I decided to stay on property for dinner. The hotel’s restaurant, The Savoy, doesn’t serve your standard hotel fare. I began my meal with a delicious steak tartare, followed by the fish of the day, which was cooked to perfection. The most exciting part of the meal however, was the Baked Alaska. I have not seen that item on a menu outside of a cruise ship and even though I tend to skip dessert, I felt the need to give it a try. I’m glad I did. It was absolutely delicious. I even convinced the table adjacent to me to order some. The only thing it was missing was the tableside flambé.

The next morning, I began my tour of Kansas City with a brief visit to the Kauffman Center

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A short drive away is the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art, which houses more than 35,000 works of art. The building itself is quite impressive and architecturally it reminded me of the Philadelphia Museum of Art. Recently, the Nelson opened the American Indian galleries, which are the largest collection devoted to this category of art in the world. Another wonderful component of the museum is the outdoor Sculpture Park which contains more than 30 sculptures. Watch out for the sprinklers though. My guide and I received a

complimentary shower while walking through the park, but it was welcomed given the intense heat of the summer.

All of this culture got me hungry, I heard about a fairly new establishment that served up great BBQ called Char Bar. The majority of the meal didn’t blow me away; I found it on par with BBQ I can find locally in Nashville, but the one standout, and something that Kansas City is known for, are burnt ends. I almost didn’t order them, but my dining companion convinced me to order a side portion. I still salivate when I think of them. Burnt ends may be the best BBQ item I’ve ever had…ever. Yes, they are that good. If you ever visit Kansas City, burnt ends are a must!

Spend some time in the Crossroads Arts District, consisting of fine art galleries, cute clothing boutiques and old historic buildings before heading out to Bistro 303, the gay bar where Kansas City’s LGBT community “begins” their evening. I don’t party as much as I used to, so I decided to begin and end my evening at 303. The laid-back establishment offers a nice cross-section of the city’s community and serves inexpensive, but well-poured cocktails.

Within minutes of sitting at the bar, I was involved in a friendly conversation with some of the locals, who told me about Missie B’s, the popular drag bar in the city. Apparently, it’s the place everyone goes to after Bistro 303. I’ll have to find out for myself next time I visit.

Other local gay bars worth visiting include Woody’s, Sidestreets, Sidekicks, and Buddies.

Hamburger Mary’s is another great option if you’re looking for a nice meal before heading out on the town.

If partying isn’t your cup of whiskey, wake up early the next morning and head to River

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Market for breakfast. In operation since 1857, the market is the largest farmers’ market in the region and consists of over 140 vendors. It was nice to grab a cup of coffee and freshly baked muffin and watch the bustling crowd begin their day.

Kansas City is home to the National World War I Museum and Memorial. The moving memorial provides a first-hand look into the war. I would suggest jumping on a guided tour of the museum as the volunteers are extremely knowledgeable about not only the war, but the museum itself.

Soon after the war ended, Kansas City leaders formed the Liberty Memorial Association to create the memorial in honor of the men and women who had served in the war. If you have the chance, journey to the top of the 217-foot tower for unobstructed views of the city, but be prepared to wait in line for a while.

Missouri, it is the world’s only known distillery in a cave. I was lucky enough to get a tour and tasting of the distillery located 65-feet underground.

For dinner, head over to Café Trio, an upscale, gay-owned restaurant which offers killer martini’s, a tasty menu and live entertainment on their grand piano. Begin your meal with the Trio Caprese consisting of fresh heirloom tomatoes, mozzarella, basil oil, cracked pepper and sea salt. It is the perfect appetizer to share with a partner. Follow that with the Diver Scallops with a charred corn risotto and lobster jus. I love a good scallop dish and Café Trio didn’t disappoint.

Overall, Kansas City was a pleasant surprise even though I didn’t have a chance to catch a Chiefs game. If you’re looking for a relaxed, friendly, inexpensive city to visit, I would definitely add KC to your list.

Those looking for a unique experience should head to SD Strong Distilling. Located in Parkville, National World War I Museum and Memorial

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Ed McMahon called him “A Powerful Vocalist who can hit notes so big and long, you could drive a truck on them.”

Country Diva Reba McEntire said “WOW! You have got some kind of voice on you.”

But the one that means the most: “Patti LaBelle Meets Nathan Lane” (FOX TV)

National Recording Artist and Theater/ Showroom Headliner Michael Cagle has received many reviews and titles.

This label has been given to Michael Cagle, and it encompasses his

powerful vocals, passionate interpretations, diversity of styles, and a delivery (stage presence) that one newspaper said, makes “him worthy of a standing ovation every time he sings”.

He has had his talents exposed to countless millions due to his national and international television appearances, concerts, and many theatrical performances. Michael has lent his talent to many benefits including St Jude, Cancer and Juvenile Diabetes! He has also headlined numerous festivals. A strong supporter of Equal Rights- some of the sestivals have included Gay Pride Events all over the country. www.ProudTimes.com

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Let’s make this first question simple yet tough, tell us what makes the mighty Michael Cagle tick?

Wow, okay, that is a tough one. I think I would have to say that it is my overall passion and stubbornness about things I truly believe in that makes me tick. I’m like a fucking bulldog that way. Obviously it is more than just singing... It’s relationships and friendships and causes that I have become very vocal about. And many people are in a position to either love what I say or hate my guts and I really am fine with that.

I don’t believe that by laying a trail of bullshit you’re going to attract anything more than flies.

Like they sing in Rent.. Take Me As I Am. Now, since I was a young young child I have always been drawn to the life of an entertainer and a singer and an actor. And I have always felt that I was destined for something major in my life in regards to performing. I felt more alive and more at home on stages than anywhere else. I am not ashamed to say I have practiced many a Grammy and Tony award acceptance speech.

Being a person that enjoys establishing strong relationships with people, I would say that those relationships are very, very important to me, as is the success of those I consider family. I have prided myself on being someone that tries to make sure other people succeed with their dreams and goals.

As I have gotten older and watched the continuing war in this country over people’s freedoms and people’s rights and equality, I have become rather passionate about politics and the state of our country, as well as the state of the planet. I am a very black-and-white person so I don’t normally mince words or sugarcoat shit. And the current situation with the idiot in

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the White House has actually caused me to become more vocal about politics then probably ever before. I would like to say I pride myself on being tolerant, but when it comes to bigotry, homophobia, racism, sexism, and the destruction of what I consider our well fought for freedoms and rights, I mean those freedoms for every man woman and child. I have absolutely zero tolerance for anyone trying to take us back to a time when so many were thought of and treated as second-class citizens.

Last but not least what makes me tick is the incredible man I met 23 years ago who became my best friend first and foremost, and after marriage equality was passed, became my husband. Although I have to say he is still my best friend as well. Jason rescued me and gave me the strength to say I can achieve my dreams.. if I work hard I can be where I want. And that my talent in voice is as good as anyone out there.

He was the first person to fully believe in my dreams and goals and was the first to be willing to sacrifice everything for me to achieve them.

He also is the first person to defend me if I tell someone to fuck off if they try to dissuade me from being what I want to be. And who I am and want to be, I am very much motivated by his unselfishness and fierce defense of me as a person and my talent and my dreams, and when I feel like not going on I realize all he has done for me to help me achieve what I want and it continues to motivate me when things seem like they’re not happening. Being an entertainer and a singer means your spouse puts up with some really incredible up-and-down crazy ass mood swings.

And now, what makes you truly happy?

So many things make me happy. Strangely, it

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is the things that I have planned in my head or envisioned that come to fruition that make me the happiest. That and proving all the past, and even some current, haters wrong.

As I said, I am very much a believer in dreams coming true and achieving goals. When I look at all the things I have in my life, they were all based on things that I truly wanted that I felt were a part of me or needed to be included in who I am and how I represent myself.

From my dog, and my car, to my husband and the ability to say I have accomplished some amazing career highlights, part of me says believe in your dreams even if no one else does because eventually with hard work and sacrifice you will achieve them. The other part of me wants to say that’s right bitches, you tried your best to talk your shit and crush me, but your best wasn’t good enough.

Your voice and 4 ½ octave range has been talked about many times by many singers, how have you trained your voice?

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I have to tell you I wanted to sing so much. I came from a musical family. The one thing I remember in my memory as a child before my parents divorced was the constant flow of music in my household. My parents were very very successful singers on the East Coast. I mean very successful. And it was the one thing I felt

the stage to not only express how I felt but maybe take someone on a journey and allow them to find their freedom and their release.

Now, just because I wanted to sing doesn’t mean I was a great singer when I was younger. It’s funny, I was I was actually a soprano until my voice changed at 14, and then I became an alto in high school, but never felt like I fit in vocally because at the time hard rock was very much the go to. I was already being picked on in school for being gay and queer so I could imagine me belting out Barbra Streisand, or Whitney Houston would have only made me more obvious.

I was in high school choir and jazz. I also did musicals in high school. In fact I’m not ashamed to say that my drama department in high school actually saved my life. I was at a point in my life where I just was constantly picked on by many people, being gay was not accepted and I was not really a happy teenager. It wasn’t until I stumbled into a drama club meeting that I actually came alive and realized being different is ok. So hell yeah, it’s true, the drama department saved my life.

Obviously I wanted to be a better singer and hone my craft too, so I actually went to college to pursue two degrees in music theatre. One in vocal performance, which required me to take private lessons, and the other was in directing.

connected me to them and it’s the one major memory I have of my father who I haven’t seen since I was 6.

I have always felt like music was a tremendous way of expressing yourself and I found that singing at the top of my lungs could be incredibly therapeutic and I wanted to be able to just use

Believe it or not I actually started off singing classical and opera. And although I was very successful competing in young artist competitions, my heart and soul was not in classical. I had to leave my first teacher of more than four years and transfer to a crossover specialist whose specialty was musical theater.

So everything came full circle. The classical did give me a tremendous foundation for what I have

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become known for, which is my crazy ass ability to belt high, strong, sustained and healthy.

My second teacher encouraged me to play around with my upper range, including my head voice mixed (blend)voice and falsetto which she said I had three different techniques and timbres. She said aside from being a natural tenor with strong alto tendencies, I was actually a natural countertenor as well, harkening back to the times I sang soprano and alto in high school.

Being stubborn, I refused to use that part of my range for a long long long time until my husband finally said to me I love the fact that you can belt a D above high tenor C, but I would love to see you play around in your head voice and your mix because it would be tremendous.

After dragging my feet for years, I gave in, And now I mix my chest voice and my blended voice as well as falsetto throughout a majority of my numbers I perform.

Stylistically, I am fucking all over the place, I love Broadway the best, but I am obviously drawn to contemporary pop and anything that is emotionally driven. I toured for several years with a vocal jazz group and spent many many many years singing contemporary Christian and serious rafter-shaking gospel music where I was able to pin my voice to the top of the roof.

Michael you have performed or opened for names like Reba McEntire, Kenny Loggins, Eddie Rabbit, Sheena Easton and so many more over your great career, what stands out as the most memorable event?

Professionally, the most memorable event was the first time I performed for a group of people over 18,000. I had gotten accustomed

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to performing for hundreds of people on smaller stages and I was actually very, very comfortable with a large number of people. For me it’s easier to sing to a huge room than a small room.

Mentally, I thought I was prepared for any number of people that would possibly be there to listen to me sing. But that quickly changed when I opened for Reba McEntire and I stepped out on the stage to do my 30 minute set and I saw almost 20,000 waiting for me to do my thing, so that Rebs could start. I recognized immediately they were not there for me, they were there to see their Reba and I had 30 minutes to either win them over or it would be the longest time in Hell I had ever spent. I am very happy to say it worked out very, very well. And it led to other opportunities to open and work alongside such amazing talents.

Including touring with the legendary Drifters.

Personally, I would have to say that it’s the unexpected, impromptu opportunities that hit me the most. I actually sang with Sheena Easton on my birthday when she invited me on stage and began to sing Happy Birthday to me. She then proceeded to duet with me on her song Almost Over You. Singing an impromptu version of All Out Of Love with Air Supply after they called me on stage was awesome. Getting an opportunity to sing alongside Idina Menzel at the Paramount Theater (an unknown goal and dream) was amazing and unbelievable and I had to improv my lyrics because I wasn’t a 100% sure of the song that was being sung. And finally, I was able to sing with my idol, Miss Patti Labelle. Not only did I get to perform at Benorays Hall (another secret goal), singing with Miss Patti was a lifelong dream come true.

When on stage performing in Little Shop of Horrors, Grease, Assassins, do you like just singing on stage or performing in a musical better?

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I love being part of a musical production. And I also love sharing the stage with so many incredibly talented people. Yes, after seeing an amazing touring company, there are times I very much miss being part of a musical production.

Truthfully if I was offered a very good part in a touring company I would probably do it again, but, believe it or not I really enjoy the freedom of putting my own show together, and putting together the set list and the through line of what I want to achieve that night. Very often a majority of the music that I do is based off of Broadway material so I get to pick and choose the numbers that I’m feeling and I have the ability to deliver them as exactly as I feel them as an artist.

What is sad is that pride events have become less diverse and more about the partying and the celebration rather than being about awareness and promoting tolerance and acceptance. Sadly, many prides now look like they’re trying to be a secondhand rip off of Rupaul’s Drag Race.

OK, now before some asshole haters start throwing their shit at me let me just say, I have no issue with drag queens and I respect their place in LGBTQ history. But to say drag is all that exists in the gay community and they are the only ones capable of displaying talent, is a travesty. You can’t preach about inclusion and diversity and then create events that don’t showcase it.

You have performed at Pride events all over, tell us why you as a performer feel it is important to be part of so many Pride events?

While working at a Pride event with emcees I had the honor of watching you perform and feeling the energy you give to the crowd. Do you think this is just years of performing or you personally?

I do pride events not for the party and the celebration. although that always seems to happen. I actually perform and host at Pride events because I believe the best way for people to overcome their prejudice about the LGBTQ community is to see as many people out there unafraid and willing to be open. I want to be part of the community, and part of a family that embraces each other, not because of who they are having sex with, but because we are all on the same journey.

Pride to me is about awareness. I know there are many people in the gay community who feel it is an opportunity to just party, get drunk, and have as much wild sex as possible. For me it’s an opportunity to hopefully educate and be a potential role mode to someone who has been either picked on for being gay or is having an issue coming out.

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I would say it’s a balance of the two. I have always felt very comfortable on stage and a serious freedom there. I don’t know why I just feel completely secure and safe. Like I can be completely creative and in the moment and lay out how I feel lyric by lyric. I also feel that I have been blessed with the ability to do what I love... which is perform on that stage, so I wanna make sure that I am giving 100% and I leave it all on the stage.

Except for the moments when I like to get away...

What you see on the stage is pretty much me.

I don’t have an on-stage persona and an offstage persona. I would like to say that the one difference between me on-stage and off-stage is the volume and vocal range of which I deliver my message, but that’s not really at all accurate. Hah hah hah

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The energy you have on stage is matched with your personality backstage. Do you find spending time meeting your fans is as important as performing for them on stage?

Absolutely. I realize I’m not the best singer in the world and there are many many incredible and talented people who will never be able to look back and say they had the opportunities that I did. And I don’t mean that in a arrogant way, I mean that in a humbling way; that for some reason I have had the opportunity to do things so many people have never had, or will never have. Because of that I am completely humbled and grateful. I realize it’s only because people come out and support me or reach out to me because they have been inspired or felt something that I can do what I love. Or shit, maybe they just liked my singing. The bottom line is I wouldn’t be there if it wasn’t for fans and people who liked what I did. So actually taking pictures or signing autographs or just getting to meet people from across the world is such an important part of what I do, and something I look forward to. Regardless of how long the show was, or how tired I am. I

wouldn’t be there if they weren’t there, so I owe it to them to make sure they have an opportunity to meet with me and me them.

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How are you finding the fame and spotlight you are receiving because of your voice and ability to communicate with your audience?

enthusiastic audiences in a classy showroom or theatre. I also love doing outdoor festivals and fairs.

I absolutely love it because I want to see people happy and motivated and inspired. And although I’m grateful for my fans and friends and the fame that I have achieved, I have not yet reached where I want to be, and so I will continue going for and hopefully I will be able to achieve my secret dream and goal.

I have two musical productions that I can tour with, and with various running times. One is a journey of my life with different genres of music intertwined with many of the influences that made me who I am. The other is a show filled with Broadway Showstoppers and an occasional diva show stopper. These are ready to slide into any type of cabaret, showroom, or theater venue.

You have performed covers of many songs as good or better than those who are known for them, do you have have a writer who writes your own music or write your own songs?

Well I thank you for the compliment. I actually just perform songs that I feel I want to deliver because when I heard them they did something to me. I also am drawn to challenges, so if I can find a song that hit me emotionally and is a challenge vocally, then I am usually all over it.

As far as writing I have had a few people want to work with me and collaborate and I am actually open to that. I have actually written my own music and have written a couple small scale musical productions. And I have been called in to add to a libretto. I think I’m a better lyricist. But I pretty much write music the same style as the way I like to sing it. So it’s usually very emotional and very dramatic What does Michael have in store for his fans in the near future?

Well I am still very much pursuing gigs, especially headlining gigs either in casinos or cruise ships. I love belting out numbers for

I have actually taken my love for mentoring and teaching and began working with up-andcoming singers or singers ready to compete.

I have found this to be rewarding in so many ways. I believe it’s a responsibility for people that have had an opportunity or been blessed to do what they love to do, to share their gift and raise another generation of singers. I have had very good success coaching singers, including sending a few of them to Broadway where they have been nominated for Tony awards, and also competed in prestigious competitions, like the KWC, in other countries and won gold medals.

I developed a reputation for being very critical and blonde but very constructive and I seem to have found another calling in raising a new group of phenomenally talented and very deserving artists.

I also have on my shelf a vocal group that I am trying to get going. They are called the Emerald City Tenors and just like the name says it’s a group of three, and we cover all styles of music including classical and add our own unique harmonies. The problem has been distance and scheduling. But when all that works out...

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it’s gonna be a terrific group. My fellow tenors, Galen and Brandon are incredible.

What advice could you share with artists of the next generation?

It’s never just about hitting the notes, it’s about making those notes shine and making the music you sing shine.

Don’t be afraid to be you. Fucking embrace your uniqueness. Be a first rate version of yourself and not a second rate version of someone you wish you could be.

When I direct a play or coach someone on a song I always tell them have a purpose in your head about why you’re doing what you are doing.

Make it natural, make it real, make it authentic, make it so that even if it’s something as simple as moving to your right or left it accomplishes a goal.

When I coach my singers and prepare them, I always tell them there is something about them that is completely different and unique and special. Show me that.

Be fearless. Leave it all on that stage. You want to be on that stage? Ok... now make everyone feel that passion and show everyone why you deserve to be there.

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Finally, realize that no matter who you are, not everyone is going to like you. If there are people that didn’t like Whitney Houston or don’t care for Adele or Sam Smith or Celine Dion, there’s no way that you’re going to not have your share of critics. Try to be the very best you can be, and if you killed it, and you still get a rash of shit for not being good enough... Fuck Em! Ha ha!

Website: https://www.reverbnation.com/ michaelcagle Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ TheBalladBelter

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Web series are going the be the proving grounds for the next generation of screenwriters, directors, producers and celebrities. In this edition Proud Times had the honor of interviewing Ken Arpino creator, director and star of The Queen Project.

You are a talented comedian, actor, writer, and all around New Yorker, so Ken let’s get to know you. At what age were bitten with the performing bug, was it before or after your first performance?

dancing or singing the most important part of being on stage and why?

Well, I don’t want to brag, but in 1st grade I was cast as a squirrel in my elementary school play.

It was a non-union gig, but I think I was able to prove my versatility and range. I knew right away that the entertainment industry was my calling.

Storytelling is BY FAR the most important part of being on-stage, off-stage, on-camera, or behind the camera. You can belt and kick your face, but if you’re boring—or not connected to the work—it’s all for nothing. I have worked with some amazing artists, but the ones who understand the ebbs and flows of a story are the ones that stay in my mind.

You toured with shows such as Hairspray, Legally Blonde, and Mamma Mia, tell us is the

Touring theater and bands are an opportunity that most want, but once you

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are touring how much work is it really and going from city to city, do you get to enjoy any of the sites?

It is an incredible amount of work—both mentally and physically. Don’t get me wrong, I loved my experiences, but it’s hard, and takes a special kind of person to do it long term. Depending on the tour schedule, there are some cities you only see the theatre and the hotel. But for long stays, I used to look up restaurants featured on Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives and make it a priority to go.

It was also fun to see historical sites and state parks.

Besides singing and dancing you write scripts and sketches, where do the ideas come from?

I love to write! I have been writing (for myself) forever, but it was actually tour that got me to take it more seriously. I would have time travelling or at the theatre and would write down the things I thought were funny. From there, it just became a matter of weaving those jokes together to tell a story.

Have you had training for the writing or are you gifted in putting words to paper to make people laugh?

I developed a quick wit at a very early age. I was often picked on for being girly (translation, gay—that just didn’t become an insult until high school). I was also targeted for my weight. I learned to make myself the punch line before someone else could do it. It was painful at the time, but damn, it’s a skill I wouldn’t trade for anything now.

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Part of Proud Times mission is to talk with and about those in the LGBT community that are making a difference. We find that the web series you are doing is very cutting edge in entertaining and educating the straight and LGBT Community. Where did the idea for “The Queen Project” Come from?

The Queens Project (TQP) is actually a spin-off from another series I was developing. I took the other project to some of my colleagues at UCB and they tore it apart. “People don’t talk to each other like that and stay friends,” they said. Jokes on them. Most of the dialogue from the script was lifted from real conversations I had with my friends. So, to test the character archetypes, I created TQP to see how people would react. It went well.

When creating “The Queen Project” what other web series or show was your inspiration?

That is a great question. TQP was developed out of my life, but I think I found my voice watching other amazing comedies—like Will & Grace and Roseanne (before she went off the deep end).

Watching the series, the episodes, story line, and the season story line are nicely done.

Have you written something like this before?

Thank you! Yes, I have a couple projects in the works right now. As a gay nerd, I suppose the epic novels and the way they weave stories together inspire me—Name of the Wind, Eragon, Lord of the Rings, and, duh, Game of Thrones.

These structures are exciting and fun to follow—I want my stories do the same.

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Is Ash based on you or is he someone you would like to be?

Ash is based on me—but I’d like to believe I am less whiny in real life.

However, I need to start Ash in this melodramatic place so that he has an opportunity to grow and learn from his foolishness.

Ash is a stereotypical gay manmelodramatic, flamboyant, and over sensitive, tell us the thought process in creating this character as the lead and what the show is mainly based around?

Ash’s mannerisms are not what define him. He is a character type that I see a lot in my own life and I just wanted to provide some representation. As I mentioned before, Ash needs an opportunity to grow, so some of these characteristics will begin to subdue as the series continues.

From the first show in season one to the end of season three the chemistry of the cast has worked well and grown with the story lines.

Did you have the personality of each figured out before casting?

Or did you let each of the cast members during audition create the characters persona?

Casting was a huge part of it. I cast the boys based on the similarities they share with their on-screen character.

However, now that I’ve worked with them for three seasons, it is much easier for me to write with their voices in my mind. After the drafts go out, I am also open to their ideas for revisions

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that will assist their character development.

A few of your cast have been in other web series and commercials, when casting how did you promote the concept for the casting call?

Each cast member is a creator or writer of their own projects and I was inspired by their passion to generate

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new content. It is important to me to work with people who have a strong work ethic and drive.

What is it like writing, directing and starring in a production?

Exhausting! I wear a lot of hats, but it truly takes a village. Every single member of the TQP team has been a

Godsend and I absolutely could not do it without them.

Most LGBT type shows really do not show the nerd side, it is mostly fashion, cooking and being a jock type.

In “The Queen Project” you used the gaming theme as the sub culture to these gay friends tell us why?

I didn’t feel like my friends were being represented. I just wanted to give a voice to another side of the gay community.

I have watched a lot of shows and see a pattern to most shows boy meets boy, girl meets girl, someone is coming out of the closet, someone is struggling with gender, but with all this you can find similarities to popular shows like Sex in the City, Odd Couple or most common Romeo and Juliet, but I am at a loss to really do this with “The Queen Project”. Tell us how you have created an original show that sets a new class for LGBT web series?

Wow—thank you. I guess I am just telling my own truth. I’m not trying to invent (or reinvent) anything—I’m just reporting.

Producing quality shows, even shows that are on average 5 minutes plus or minus long, what does it take to do this for a filming season?

Film projects are incredibly expensive— even short ones. With all the different platforms out there, it is also hard to stand out from the pack, so you really have to do all you can for quality. It takes us a full week to shoot and they are very long workdays.

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How many more seasons are planned for “The Queen Project”?

If we get the funding—I would do it forever.

Are you writing for other web series or working on another to run at the same time as “The Queen Project” or after it concludes?

Yes; I am officially the co-owner of a new production company, Pals of Dorothy.

We will hopefully start turning out more LGBT focused projects very soon!

Who is your favorite character and why?

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I can’t choose a favorite—but man, I love watching Andre!

I find myself laughing a lot during the show, sometimes the humor is a bit dark, but it’s funny! Was that what you hoped to accomplish with this show?

Yes. I love making people laugh, so I’m very happy to hear TQP is tickling you.

Do you have words of wisdom for future web series writers, producers, directors and cast members?

Yes I do. This was advice given to me, so now I will pass it on. Generate your own work! No one is going to do it for you.

If there is a role you want to play, write it. If there is a sketch you want to film, film it. If you want more experience on or off camera, get your friends together and make it happen. Surround yourself with people that will push and inspire you. There are a million reasons to allow yourself not to do something—ignore that impulse and get off your ass.

Website: http://www.kenarpino.com/ Facebook : https://www.facebook.com/ thekenarpino/ Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/ channel/UCdFn4k48cZFwtWelH448pdw

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Publisher of popular graphic novels and comics talks the im out in publishing today, fighting HIV-related stigma, educati comics, and Stormy Daniels.

By Sebastian Fortino

Darren Davis has been a fan and collector of comic books for 40 years. This c described as a reluctant reader during his childhood. His family got him interes a comic book in front of him, after which he gravitated to that medium. Origina entertainment industry, for companies such as E! Entertainment Television, a by a salary increase, he went to work for DC Comics, where, under famed publi a great deal about the industry. In his work he makes superheros out of peop figures, beloved celebrities, and just recently, Stormy Daniels.

During the last administration, the LGBTQ+ community certainly felt safer on at least a Federal level. As an out, visible gay publisher--what do you think your role means now, under an administration which is definitely not gay-friendly?

It just means I have to be louder! I am noticing a separation between the right and the left to the point where it feels like a civil war in America. I have lost friends because of the new divide. I wish there was a way for people to get along again - or at least respect each other. We have to be the bigger people and keep trying.

On a personal level, what do you try to convey with your publications? When working with other writers, do you try to get “your voice” in there? Or is it more about finding people to publish who already share some of your voice and intent?

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I think Walt Disney said it perfe tainment”. I want to entertain p But there are sometimes I wan people can get lost in a story a people to feel that when I creat onto a book that the book is go I also like to surprise people wi going to publish.

Your first work, if memory se a graphic piece called Lost R the first young adult novels t protagonist. What impact did role as a publisher?

My first comic book was in 200 launched as the sixth highest s comic books like the Xmen, Ba

mportance of being ing people through

came from being what he sted in reading by putting ally he was working in the and Lionsgate. Motivated isher Jim Lee, he learned ple from history, political

ect by coining the term “Edupeople while educating them. nt to just do comic books so and escape the world. I want te something or put my name oing to be a polished book. ith my choices of what I am

erves me correctly, was Raven. And was one of to feature an HIV-positive d this have on you and your

01 called the 10th Muse. It selling comic book, beating atman, and Spiderman. I was

lucky to strike it big at the beginning that it was able to give me a voice in the comic book world. I was able to take that momentum and in 2006 published Lost Raven. Doing a book like that was pretty scary. I ended up coming out to the world as gay but HIV as well. The book is based off my journal entries from when I was dealing with finding out I was HIV positive. I tied it into a fiction story to make it more action adventure. The book did well and won a couple of awards.

It was a way for me to help reduce stigma as well as help people struggling with getting newly diagnosed.

Have you ever been afraid of niching yourself into “gay publisher” first, “publisher” second?

Never. I am a publisher that happens to be gay.

Have you ever felt limited by being an out gay publisher? Do you think this has even been an issue when approaching subject or individuals? Is the graphic novel industry something with little LGBTQ+ leaders and publishers?

It is a straight male demographic genre. Most people respect what I have done working at DC Comics, WildStorm, and Image comics. I built a name for myself. I was fired from Wizard Magazine for being HIV positive. So I have always been scared of being the HIV face of comic books. But as time went on, I do not let it define me and still don’t.

You have several series. Female Force celebrates strong women, Tribute celebrates late icons including Freddie Mercury, and many others. A 2017 on the Stonewall Riots educates readers about LGBTQ+ history, now there’s Political Power. You have done one on James Comey and now Stormy Daniels. Why did you choose to feature these subjects?

Most of the subjects I do on the biography comic books are really about me wanting to learn more about these people.

For the political ones, they really help me learn about the world of politics. I definitely feel more informed as a voter because of these comic books. As as a kid that used to read US Magazine and Teen Beat, I love the world of celebrity.

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I pick people like Britney Spears, Taylor Swift, the cast of Twilight because I know that teens want to collect and read about their favorite celebrities in a graphic novel format.

These are so fun to produce! I love the Female Force series because I have always had strong women in my life and this is a way for me to pay homage to them. Trust me, getting a signed copy of your own Hillary Clinton comic book does not suck! The Tribute line is a great was for us to showcase people that made a difference that are no longer with us. I do work with writers and artists who suggest books to me as well. Sometimes I do books for people to learn from.

Doing a book on the Stonewall riots, I wanted to bring that story back into the forefront to have people remember what happened.

Stormy has been all over the news, she wrote a book, appeared on The View, and several other talk shows.

Why did you think Stormy was important to include in your collection?

Whether we like it or not she has inserted herself in the political discussion. It does not matter if the subject is sexual.

It simply has to do with the most political person in America.

The Political Power series appears to be new. Is this your response to the current administration? What impact do you feel graphic novels can have in politics?

What other topics or persons would you most like to feature?

We started the Political Power series after the Female Force series took off. We started it in 2008 when we saw how people loved our Hillary Clinton and Sarah Palin comic books. The first one in the Political Power series was Colin Powell. We have done over 60 of them now! Political Power is a comic book series that features biographies on modern politics. We keep these books unbiased and focus on the world of politics from Nelson Mandela, Donald Trump, Anderson Cooper, Ron Paul, Richard Nixon, Barack Obama, The Tea Party, and Ted Kennedy just to name some. I love these because I do as well get to learn about all types of politics. At the end of the day, I want to make sure nobody

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knows who I vote for. I hire great writers who stay unbiased.

You’ve told me the overwhelming majority of subjects have responded well to their being turned into a graphic novel. How was interacting with Stormy Daniels?

We reached out to her and never heard back.

How do you find your writers? Do they approach you, or do you see work you like in graphic publishing then approach them?

I work with some great writers. Joe Paradise, who pitched me the Stormy Daniels comic book, has been doing biography comic books since the 90’s. He is one of the trailblazers that made comic book biographies a real thing! At first, I did not want to do it. But he explained how much she was changing the face of politics and I had to do it. With the other books, I find writers who do not have an agenda and can write a comic book biography without it seeming like a book report.

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I assume you are going to make Political Power a priority.

Who else would you like to profile or planning to feature?

During election season the Political Power series always gets put to the front of the line in my publishing. We do have some good ones planned. A second book on James Comey in which we talk about all the Trump stuff.

More will be planned as people start announcing their plans to run in 2020. In 2016 we did Jeb Bush, Rand Paul, Donald Trump, Hillary Clinton, and Chris Christie. I would really like to do one on Angela Merkel.

We look forward to reading upcoming titles from Darren Davis and his writers. Visit TidalWave Comics to learn more about their catalogue including where to buy, as well as current and upcoming releases.

Website: http://tidalwavecomics.com/

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By Kenyth Mogan

Ada Vox made history as the first drag performer to make it into the top 8 of the popular American Idol series. It was her second time auditioning, her first time was in 2013 when she auditioned as Adam Sanders, a shy young man from Texas. Though Adam blew judges away with his powerful voice, he was ultimately sent home, and if the rejection wasn’t difficult enough, he started getting hate mail from internet trolls who taunted him on everything from his weight to his sexuality - the downside of fame. In a world where cyber bullying is almost

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inevitable it’s easy to curl up and crack under the pressure.

Adam didn’t though. He used it to fuel his fire and strengthen his cause, and like a phoenix from the ashes, transformed into a strong, independent woman, more confident and fabulous than any of her online attackers. Now, not only is Ada releasing her first single “Because of You” (produced by the legendary Bimbo Jones) she’s gearing up for her first U.S. Tour, and her haters? Well, she’s not here for them. She’s not here for anyone. She just wants to make her dreams come true.

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Tell me about Adam Sanders, when did he realize he wanted to be a singer?

Adam is and always has been just a little different and in love with music. When I was 8 years old, I realized that being a singer was a real life thing!

American Idol had just aired and seeing people make their dreams come true in that way lit a fire under me to really create and pursue a dream in the entertainment industry.

When was the moment ADA was born and how did you come up with her name?

Ada was born out of necessity. The necessity to create a stage persona to further my career as an entertainer. My image as Adam just didn’t measure up to the DIVA that would come out with my voice when I would sing.

As with any stage name, I believed that it should be a representation of ourselves so all I did was take off the ‘M’ in Adam to keep it short, sweet, memorable, and effective. Vox translates to ‘voice’ in Latin and as a live singing drag queen, it just made sense.

Before Idol, were you a part of the drag scene in San Antonio? What is the scene like there?

I was indeed a part of the drag scene. It’s very interesting down here. I had the hardest time getting any paid gigs until towards the end when I became a regular cast member at Luther’s Cafe.

Before then I was competing in talent nights at the Pegasus Nightclub, competing for Drag Me to Fame at HEAT, performing for free as a cast

member at the Silver Dollar, and for free on the open performance nights at Babio’s EDD. The scene down here is run mostly by the old school pageant girls and can be really difficult to break into and have a successful run in.

You’ve listed Patti Labelle as one of your idols. Can you tell me about the moment you found out you would be singing with her?

What was going through your mind?

OMG! One of the executive producers called me and told me she had a surprise that would make me flip out. In that instant I clung to my seat ready for anything. She then asked me if I would like to return to the finale as part of the top 10 to sing with Patti Labelle! My vision got blurry, and I think my heart stopped for a quick second, but I made it through. I had an amazing time performing with her. Every minute was a blessing.

What drew you to “Because of You”?

The lyrics to “Because of You” are really what drew me in. I love nothing more than a song that truly means something and the wonderful positive vibe is something that I think the world can never have enough of.

Was Bimbo Jones someone you wanted to work with or did the label pair you up? What was the experience like?

My agent actually has amazing connections that you wouldn’t even think of! He’s been in the business such a long time that he seems to know a person for anything and everything you

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could imagine. I had seen Bimbo’s work before, but never considered myself a dance artist so I never thought that a collab would happen, but I’m beyond glad that it did!

Will you be working on an album? Are there any other producers or songwriters you want to work with? Will you be writing a song?

I will be! There are many great producers that I would like to work with, but a couple songwriters in particular that I would LOVE to write with.

A couple being wonderful friends of mine like Effie Passero, who was also on Idol, and a San Antonio local entertainer by the name of Chelsea G who has been a wonderful friend of mine for years. A couple dream collaborations would be the incomparable Lionel Richie and Kelly Clarkson.

Also, I do actually write quite a bit, so definitely expect plenty from my own pen to be on a lot of the upcoming tracks.

Katy Perry was speechless after speaking with you. What was that feeling like?

Having the support and encouragement of someone of that caliber absolutely means the world. She is a legitimate SUPER STAR! Her approval is all I need to know that I’m on the right path.

What is it like to know that YOU are the first drag performer in the history of American

Idol to make the top 8? Congrats by the way!

It’s amazing to know that I was the first of anything! The feeling that nobody can ever take that away from me is indescribable.

In the age of cyber bullying, what would you say to kids who experience the same kind of cruelty you did after American Idol?

Seeing what other people have to say is inevitable. We’re always using our phones to scroll through YouTube comments, Facebook, Twitter threads, and just about anything else you can imagine. What we all need to keep in mind is that the only person who should ever be able to define you is yourself. Everybody in this world has an opinion, but we need to make sure to surround ourselves in real life with people who truly love us and have our best interest at heart.

It’s really the best defense against the negativity that comes from across the web.

With a new single and a tour, what’s next for Ada Vox? Miss Ada Vox is just gonna keep on moving! I’m writing, working with some talented musicians, and have a few things that could possibly be really big for me in my career!

I honestly can’t wait for the world to see how this all unfolds.

As amazing as Ada’s story is, it’s not unique. In

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a world where even the President of the United States of America is a cyber bully, LGBT men and women all over the country and the world stop fighting and snuff their light - some of them as young as nine years old. This is why Ada’s story is important. She has been given a chance to be the light for those who are lost in the darkness. And what a beautiful light it is.

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Merriam-We “of, relat gender ide person had birth.�

By Victoria Smartt

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ebster defines transgender as ting to, or being a person whose entity differs from the sex the d or was identified as having at ”Nowadays the word transgender has a lot of stigma surrounding it. There has been of course, the bathroom issue, the idea that transgender people simply have their gender roles confused, and of course, Caitlyn Jenner has been the butt of many jokes - there’s even a transgender character on the popular TV show Family Guy. Even through all this political drama, it seems people still have yet to actually sit down and get to know those who are transgender. Everybody wants to put a label on everything, they want people to fit into boxes they can understand.

The one box we all checks is the human box.

We are all humans. We are all the same in that.

But we’re not all the same in other respects, and those differences should be celebrated, not boxed and feared. Here at Proud Times we understand that not everyone is familiar with the LGBTTQQIAAP letters and what they mean. We want to educate and help people see others as different but beautiful. This month’s letter is T for Transgender, and for this issue we spoke with Arianna D. Spanic, a local Spokane drag queen and all around beautiful individual.

I think a lot of people get confused when it comes to the word transgender. Could you tell us what it means to be transgender for you specifically?

Well trans means to go to, so female to male or vice versa, some get the whole operation, some don’t. Transgender for me though specifically is not to be a girl or woman, but a lady. I don’t want bottom surgery, but I do want top, which doesn’t make me less of a lady. It’s just a personal choice.

There is so much stigma surrounding transgender people, and most often I think

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this is based on fear. Particularly when it came to the bathroom issue that was so prevalent several years ago. What would you like to say to those who are so scared of transgender people?

Honestly I hate that the situation even presented itself, trans individuals already have an issue within themselves when it comes to using the appropriate bathroom. We’re more scared than everyone else.

I think another issue people often have is one that is perpetuated, again, by fear, but that somehow a transgender person is out to “trick” them sexually, that they wouldn’t tell them if they were pre operation, or whatever.

I think this is silly personally, but I want to know how you feel about this.

Every trans individual goes through a phase where they’re unsure how to go about things sexually. Trans women are looked at as sex symbols or fetishes mostly. But we do have feelings too, for myself, it was hard telling men cuz I didn’t want to scare them off but to get to know me for me. Nowadays I just own it.

You are a local drag queen, you run karaoke every week at J.Rs Bar and Grill, and you have a full time job. Busy busy! Can you tell us more about your daily life and activities and if you feel like being trans has been a benefit or a hindrance?

Work is work whether you are trans or not. I enjoy my life contently, I have friends that accept me fully, and coworkers which is hard to find being trans. My beard is a hindrance for my daily life

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lol, but I’ve learned it’s fixable and also the power of makeup. This life wouldn’t have chose me if it wouldn’t benefit me.

Have you always known you were trans, and can you tell us about what it was like telling your family and friends?

Well I’m 26, when I was growing up in Moses Lake trans wasn’t even heard of but I always have been feminine. I think for trans individuals we all learn about ourselves differently depending our location and how we grew up. My family and friends fortunately are so supportive and I am blessed, like very blessed.

You have an amazing support system, with so many friends who love you and want the best for you. What would you say to those who are struggling to find that support?

Easy, just shine and be yourselves to the fullest and own it! People will see it.

Lastly, you are such a beautiful and unique individual, I just love being in your presence.

Can you speak to the confidence that you have? Is there anything else you’d like us to know about you?

This question made me tear up, thank you so much Victoria! Confidence is always key, me being involved in my community, staying true to who I am, and performing, has strengthened the confidence I present. If you own who you are like I do, you can uplift anyone. I’m just a sassy little lady whose purpose is to make everyone happy and smile. Stay classy!

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By Benda Burgett

Meet these leaders of tomorrow and you will find them very busy with the now. It’s not important to them to think about what part they may be playing in the history. That could well be because they are living it.

NLGJA is best described to those who are not familiar with this organization by reading their mission statement , NLGJA was founded in August of 1990, by the late Leroy (Roy) F. Aarons, NLGJA is an organization of journalist, media professionals, educators and students working from within the news industry to foster fair and accurate coverage of NLGJA issues. NLGJA opposes all forms of workplace bias and provides professional development to its members.

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I know that Bryce has been doing this for a long time even though he is quite young. You have an amazing record. I wanted to ask you about the Walter Cronkite School of Journalism and Mass Communications. Is this something you applied for and were accepted or do they pick you?

It is a regular college application, like you apply to Arizona State University and choose Journalism as your degree.

Also, I am going to continue asking you a little more about your background before Kayla.

You are the President of the Phoenix Arizona NLGJA. Kayla, now what is it that you are called, President? What is your role?

Co-President.

Bryce when did you know that you wanted to be in media? I know that you have done so many things, you interned with King 5 in Seattle, CBS News in New York. Was this a result of the Walter Cronkite School or how did this all come about?

So for all those internships, you have to apply individually. But as students of the Cronkite school we are kind of presented with different opportunities all the time. Some of them did come from opportunities from school but also King 5 was something that I sought on my own.

Kayla, can you give us a little about your background?

Sure. I have been doing journalism since I was in high school. I started interning at NBC News and helping the sound correspondents for MSNBC in New York City since after my freshman year of college.

Then I interned at the local CW station my freshman year. I interned at the Breaking News desk at The Arizona Republic at AZCentral.com here in Phoenix. Then also I work as a Marketing Representative for Warner Bros Records currently.

Wow. Very impressive at any age. Especially beginning your career just like you two are. Can you tell me, this is going to sound like what did you do on summer vacation but Bryce when did you know you wanted to be in media?

Umm it was, I think I was about seven years old. I was attending a summer camp in Wenatchee, WA. I think it was just a Wenatchee School District summer camp and one of the camp counselors at the time was going to school to be a news anchor. I didn’t really understand what a news anchor was and so I asked her and she said “those are the people that go on t.v. and read the news.” When she told me that I didn’t really know that anybody could be on t.v. and so I guess at that point I started paying more attention to the news and watching it all the time (morning and night). Then I kind of just read the news. By the time I got into high school I knew that is what I wanted to do.

Is there a special thing that you would like to accomplish with your media career? Something that you want to get across to people. Is there a mission? Why is this so important, other than you enjoying it?

I think that especially in today’s landscape, the media is is very important in terms of helping the public understand what is going on and what to make of what is going on. As journalists it’s our job to present information fairly and without biases.

Oftentimes you see media not doing that. So at the Cronkite school we are being taught

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and reinforced on how to fairly and unbiasedly report the news. So I think that mission is just as important today as it has ever been.

So Kayla, were you at seven years old, or when did you decide this was something that you wanted to do?

I was highly interested in news since I was eleven and visited, I am originally from Long Island, but I visited the museum when I was eleven years old. I was particularly interested in the history of media and then once I got to high school I started doing research on a more academic level with the history of media and getting involved in the school’s newspaper. I hosted a radio show for my school which I didn’t think it was an opportunity that I had. I did an internship with a local magazine in Long Island when I was in my senior year. Once that happened, someone recommended to me a program called The Emma Bowen Foundation, which was founded about one hundred and five years ago (I think that is the how many years she said) and this program supports minorities seeking positions in media, all different forms. So I looked into this program and eventually I got a call from NBC News to come intern there when I was just finishing high school. They offered me a position ultimately after I finished my first year of college.

I think I was interested but I didn’t really have a direct focus of what exactly I wanted to do other than really wanting to expand the diversity and imageries of media and that was pretty much a broad perspective on it since I was in high school. But once I got into college and had opportunities with NBC, I became more focused.

Yeah, so during my time here at ASU I have done some research on diversity in media, particularly within the Cronkite school and did a case study during my junior year. So, I had that work published and I would be more than happy to share that with you post interview. I have made it clear that I want my image and all my work, I currently work as a producer for the student program, Cronkite news, and I want all my work to reflect my commitment to diversity. Career calling I want to work in tech media, so kind of like studying audience scanalytics, audience engagement in media. Not really picky on what company I want to work with, but something with NBC and Twitter companies like that. That would allow me to get into the more tech side of things.

Both of you, whoever wants to speak first. When did you first learn about the NLGJA ASU and when did you know this was something that you wanted to become involved in?

I’ll speak. My freshman year I was interested in NLGJA, it was really the only LGBTQ catered work that I was familiar with on the downtown campus at ASU, which is separate from our main campus that has a lot more organizations and students. So as soon as I heard there was an organization catered to LGBTQ journalists I wanted to be a part of it and it wasn’t too active my freshman year. For two years the organization wasn’t present, there was no chapter here at ASU, so it wasn’t until Bryce ran the idea to bring the chapter back. Our senior year we had an opportunity to become re-involved and design the chapter in a way that was equitable for students of all years here.

That is amazing. Is there a special calling you have or something you want to be known for in your media career?

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Bryce?

I too knew about it my freshman year and it wasn’t very active then, and like Kayla said, it kind of died off our sophomore and junior years. Last spring, the spring of my junior year I kind of thought about it a little bit and didn’t really know exactly what it would look like as the President of our student council. That was kind of, by being in that position I knew that there were definitely opportunities to restart the student chapter of NLGJA, and so over the summer when I was interning at the CBS Evening News, there were a few people there that I met who told me about the National Conference that they would be attending in September and so I thought that sounded like a great opportunity and I thought that would be a way for us to kickstart our recharting of the student chapter. At that point it seemed more than doable, and so we did it.

So what are your plans? What are you wanting to accomplish with this organization? Is there a definite goal since it wasn’t that active, is it starting over based on a format that they had?

What is that you want this organization to say?

Organizationally, yes we did have to start over entirely. We have all new membership here at Cronkite and so yes, it is kind of a fresh start. In terms of our goals for the semester, we haven’t really looked at the entire school yet, but for the semester we are looking at getting professional LGBTQ journalists into an environment with our LGBTQ student journalists. We have some opportunities for that later in the semester, and the first one being in October, we will be hosting a panel with media professionals from the Phoenix metro area who work in places like the Arizona Republic and

ABC 15. In November we will be hosting a Skype call with a CBS News Correspondent who based is in Washington D.C. for our students. So that is one of the goals, it is to get that interaction and for our students to be comfortable interacting and learning from LGBTQ media professionals.

I think to expand on what Bryce just said, we ultimately want to improve on the coverage of LGBTQ people in journalism and therefore we need to empower the LGBTQ journalists that we have here on campus. The best way to empower them is to create an environment in which that they and we can feel comfortable. Being really honest about our experiences as journalists and our needs professionally and personally. So by putting on events that Bryce mentioned, we try to create an environment of canter and constructiveness that allows each person to be honest about their goals and walk into our club environment and we can cater our organization to meet the needs for each person.

Are you aware that there is no chapter in WA State, no chapter of the NLGJA? Is there any information that you could provide Kurt with to take with him on the 9th if they want to get a chapter started?

There is no WA State chapter?

Not that we could find.

Let me look here. Yeah I guess there isn’t one. I guess the closest one would be the University of Oregon chapter.

We have contacts for the national organization that can be helpful in setting up, or getting information in setting up a chapter there.

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I did some research on this on the NLGJA, and we know that Leroy F. Erins, as known as Roy Erins, founded the NLGJA in 1990. He did a survey. He put this together and got it started, and it just occurred to me, do you realize what an important part of history you are? The making of all this, and what a big deal it really is? It is amazing that so much has been accomplished since 1990 and yet there is so much more that needs to happen and that starts with the young people I think, as well from the others that aren’t so young. Can you tell me what your next step is to do, take it as it comes, or I am pretty sure you both have an idea of what your next steps are going to be and what direction you are going to go?

I am still figuring that all out as the next year plays out. I think if I were to have a dream, like I said before, it would be really nice to work in some tech or digital field. I would prefer to work in either New York, where my family is, or London.

Well we both graduate in May, I don’t know if you had that. We both graduate in May, and I am more interested in taking a broadcast/reporter route. That usually includes going to a series of smaller places around the United States for a couple of years

each and working your way up to getting up into a larger market. Hopefully in New York City.

Bryce Newberry and Kayla King-Summer are both seniors at Arizona State University Walter Cronkite School of Journalism and Mass Communication. They are Co- Presidents of the NLGJA charter within the above.

They both attended the National Convention of NLGJA, held in Palm Springs, California this September 6-9, 2018.

Bryce and Kayla’s education and past achievements are impressive for any aspiring journalist and media figures, especially since they are both in their 20’s.

The importance of providing opportunities for aspiring young journalist is an aspiration for PROUD TIMES. It has been a dream to be a part of opening doors for our young journalist to have the support and opportunities to go forward in their pursuit of a career in Journalism.

Currently there is no charter for NJGJA in the state of Washington. Proud Times is investigating the possibilities of providing information on how this can be established.

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By Sebastian Fortino

New Documentary Celebrates the West Coast Oldest Performing Female Impersonator

Portland is a city known for its creativity, and doing things in its own style. The drag comm is celebrated in multiple pageants and venues. However, the most iconic venue celebrating drag and drag performers is undoubtedly Darcelle XV’s Showplace located in the Chinatow neighborhood of Old Town, Portland.

Darcelle was born in 1930 in the Linnton neighborhood of Portland as Walter Cole. He was a business entrepreneur after serving in the Korean War. He lived a conventional life, in a heterosexual marriage which produced two children. In the 1960s however, he discovered h love of female impersonation and opened Darcelle XV’s Showplace. Currently, it is the olde drag venue on the West Coast.

Local company 360 Labs was inspired by the legendary performer and decided to approach about a documentary. ProudTimes sat down with Co-founder Brad Gill and Co-director of th film Rachel Bracker to discuss the production and working with Darcelle.

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Tell me a little bit about 360 Labs. I know you specialize in 360 degree, immersive films but tell our readers more.

BG: 360 Labs is a small crew based out of Portland, Oregon that focuses on 360º Virtual Reality Video. We started back as three cofounders: Myself (Brad Gill), Thomas Hayden, and Matt Rowell. We all came from different backgrounds but had one thing in common, Google Business View. We were competing against each other back in 2013 as the only photographers in town that were trying to build our own businesses in selling panorama photos to local businesses to put on their Google Maps profile. We decided to meet up and we started experimenting with 360 video. Our first video, that actually has the most views on our YouTube channel, was made by taking GoPro cameras, duct tape, and cardboard and building a camera setup that fit on the hood of a Lamborghini.

From there we started capturing more and more experiences. We built a library of content and we were ready when YouTube, Facebook, and many other platforms started having proper web and mobile players for 360 video back in 2015.

You have done projects which really capture the majesty of the physical world around it.

I saw your piece on the Grand Canyon, and two others on a local college campus as well as Coast Guard training off the Coast of New Jersey. Was it challenging to adapt your technology to the filming of a documentary?

As it is was our first documentary we released in early 2018. We started working on it back when we first started meeting. Between gathering that content and the release date, we were working with clients that would call us to help them tell a story in 360 video. Because 360 video is so experiential, it seems like most 360 content is

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actually a documentary. Our project with the US Coast Guard was a series of mini stories about different jobs to do in the CG. They were almost documentaries in themselves because they were capturing mostly real moments. So, no, if you give me a topic to film, I can make a 360 video experience out of it.

Darcelle is touted as the world’s oldest performing drag queen. What motivated you to do a film about her?

I originally just wanted to do a documentary about the LGBTQ community in Portland. I couldn’t find a good angle to approach so I switched gears when a light went off one day.

I walked over to our editing suites and asked Rachel, “What if we did a story about Darcelle XV?” She thought it was a great idea and was excited to help me with the project. We dove into some other documentaries about Darcelle’s life and even bought the book, ‘Just Call me Darcelle.’ We were definitely interested. I’ve known about Darcelle for a few years and have always been curious about what she’s done, how she’s gotten where she is, and why she does it. I also felt like the younger generation in the LGBTQ community has almost lost the memory of what our past community members have done to get us where we are today with rights and freedoms. I felt like there was no better way to reach a young generation then with new media and an old story.

We spoke about the project when you were working on it, a few months ago. What was Darcelle’s reaction to your desire to do a film? How did she feel about the technology?

We first went to Darcelle’s venue to watch a show and then asked after the show if we could meet up soon to discuss the documentary idea. She

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immediately said yes, which is a favorite answer of hers, so we set up a time to visit and chat. We met at Darcelle’s house and showed the piece about the Grand Canyon, ‘as it is’, and Darcelle was immediately in love.

I understand this documentary is not only about Darcelle and her showplace, but also a history of the vibrant LGBTQ+ community in Portland throughout the years. How many years, roughly, would you say you chronicle in this film?

We dive back into the late 60s, talk about the beginnings of the Imperial Sovereign Rose Court (ISRC), and even touch on recent 90s history of the AIDS epidemic and the struggle to fight Measure 9. We will creatively place archival photo and video within the documentary to give a really unique experience.

Darcelle has many fans, but she also has many confidants and friends among other drag performers in the Pacific Northwest and beyond.

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How many people did you interview for the documentary?

terms of the opening up of gay rights across the Western World?

We decided to interview 4 people for the documentary. It wasn’t an easy choice, but I wanted a variety of views, from long time performers and friends along, with some that were newer to the scene. We are really grateful for those that were interviewed and wish we could have interviewed more. We had to keep it to a minimum so that we could focus the story more on Darcelle instead of hearing more from others. We want our film to feel as though you, the viewer, is living Darcelle’s life and stepping into her world. In order to do that, we have Darcelle tell you most of the story herself.

Darcelle has been a powerhouse for gay rights, AIDS research, and many other aspects of the local community and beyond. We hope that by hearing her story, viewers will draw the connection between the fight for equal rights here in Oregon to the larger movement across the nation. The truth is, each and every one of us can have an impact that extends far beyond our local community. And Darcelle is a great example of that.

We interviewed: Poison Waters, who’s been performing with DXV for 30 years.

Syra St. James, a newer cast member who is becoming more and more active in the community.

Summer Seasons, another main cast member that has been with DXV for over 13 years and also is highly involved in the LGBT resources in Portland.

Mr. Mitchell, the MC of Friday and Saturday night shows at DXV showplace who has been performing and a friend for 38 years.

In filming “Through Darcelle’s Eyes” you’re documenting a local person. How did you relate your subject to the rest of the world in

Going back to the above question, did you think it was important to show a local figure in a national or even international light as a person in history?

Certainly! Darcelle is already internationally known as the world’s oldest performing drag queen and has traveled the globe. And she was recently named one of the 100 most influential Oregonians in history. Her influence locally has been a big part of the increased acceptance we now see for LGBT rights. That work deserves to be acknowledged and recognized in a national and international context.

When we spoke in the beginning of the summer, you said you were learning a lot from Darcelle. What did you come away with most?

BG: I learned a ton about the history and why certain organizations are in place. Most of all, I learned that happiness is what keeps us young.

She’s a true inspiration!

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RB: I learned that part of the key to success is the longevity of your patience and willpower.

Darcelle has faced many challenges in life. But she has never once given up. Most successful people have endured many failures and setbacks. The trick is to keep going, even when it gets hard. That’s something Darcelle has demonstrated through her courage and positive attitude, and I’m incredibly inspired by that.

Do you have any favorite moments, or favorite moments of history which Darcelle shared with you and your team?

BG: I absolutely LOVED seeing the archival video footage from DXV Showplace. It’s awesome to see what the shows were like and how much they have changed... You’ll just have to come watch the documentary to see what I mean. ;) RB: I liked seeing what Darcelle’s day-to-day schedule is like. She’s a very busy person and seems to have an endless reserve of energy.

Spending time with her, it’s obvious how much she loves performing. I also really enjoyed watching her interact with audiences night after night. She wants to know everyone’s birthday at the show, who’s getting married, and if anyone is from out of town. Connecting with the audience is a big part of the show, and it was really touching to see how even on the busiest, craziest nights, she always makes time to talk with her audience.

In terms of history, you paired with local historical associations to provide images from Portland and the intersection area around her Showplace. What changes did you see through history?

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BG: We worked with the Portland City Archives, Multnomah County Archives, and Greg Pitts to gather many archived photos from the 70s. We have been working to recreate that same exterior just like it was back then. It’s really crazy to see the skyline without the Fremont Bridge and the Bancorp Tower! Listening to Darcelle recount the day she bought the showplace, it’s obvious that downtown Portland has changed quite a bit over the years. She called it “Skid Row” back in the day, and mentions that many people were afraid to go to that part of town, avoiding crossing the river or even stepping foot there. Now it’s one of the most vibrant places for people from all over the world to hang out and enjoy the city. Darcelle XV Showplace is a big part of that change, making that area more attractive for businesses and customers.

What legacy do you hope this film is going to leave behind to the local community and to drag performers?

BG: I really just hope that people watch it and remember it. Drag performers are entertainers, sure, but they’re also often activists and community leaders. Through their shows, which have drawn increasingly diverse audiences over the years, they’ve acted as ambassadors of the LGBT community to the straight community, shedding light on the need for equal rights and contributing to increased acceptance. Darcelle, her cast, and her historic showplace have played a huge role in getting us to where we are today.

Unfortunately, there is still a lot more work to do.

There are people in Oregon who would like to see rights taken away. There are hateful attitudes and biases against the LGBT community still out there. None of us can afford to be complacent,

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which is why we hope this film will draw attention to the need for continued activism. There’s a scene of Darcelle at Peacock in Park in our film, where she urges the large audience in attendance to get out and vote. If there’s a single message we hope resonates with our viewers, we hope it is this: Vote! In the words of Darcelle, don’t let anything we’ve fought so hard for all these years slip away.

Finally, what does your particular brand of technology bring to this film? What impact could it have on future documentaries about a specific person?

BG: 360º and virtual reality video is one of the best ways to communicate information to an

audience and get them engaged in a story. That’s why it’s known as immersive storytelling. When you watch a 360 video in a VR headset, you’re free of distractions from the outside world. You are transported from your current, physical reality, directly into the heart of a story. Anyone who sees “Through Darcelle’s Eyes” will feel as though they are sitting right there, in Darcelle’s incredibly decorated living room. This is where the magic of this medium begins. We don’t control the frame, so a viewer is free to look around the scene as they please. What visual information will be added to your understanding of Darcelle if you are free to gaze around her home? Or backstage at her venue as she does her makeup? Or even riding alongside as she drives over the Steel Bridge and parallel parks downtown? There’s a

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vast treasure trove of information there, all of which adds to a sense of presence and agency for you, the viewer. All of us have different learning styles, but no matter who you are, if you’re engaged and actively listening, you will learn something more deeply. That’s how we feel about 360 documentary storytelling. Stories impact and resonate with people in a uniquely captivating way when told with 360 video. Hopefully, our viewers will walk away with a new appreciation for Darcelle’s work in our community and the inspiration to follow in her footsteps.

Through Darcelle’s Eyes will be shown fittingly at her showplace on October 13th & 14th. Please visit http://360labs.net/DarcelleXV to learn more about ticketing and showtimes. 360 Labs has graciously promised 15 percent of ticket sales to Camp KC, a camp for children whose lives have been touched

by HIV & AIDS through www.cascadeaids.org which serves Portland and the surrounding region.

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Original Image by Daren Cornell

Prize Plus Size Tom Goss Sings His Ode To Large Gay Men

By Shane Gallagher

“Round in All the Right Places” is Tom Goss’ ode to plus-sized men, but its message is a universal one. “Everyone should see the beauty in themselves and love every inch of their bodies,” he says.

He admits it’s easier said than done, especially when everything and everyone around us is telling us that fat is bad and skinny is good. “Change who you are, lose it at all costs, we’re told,” Goss continues. “Then we wonder why gay men often view themselves in a negative light.”

He’s right. According to the National Eating Disorder Association (NEDA), while gay men make up just 5 percent of the national male population, they account for 42 percent of men who report having an eating disorder.

While Goss sees the beauty in large men, he too has fallen victim to societal standards. “In some ways, my success depends on it. Image is everything, is it not? The music industry says I must be thin, so I do my best to stay thin.”

In “Round in All the Right Places,” he aims to flip the script on perceived beauty.

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What inspired you to write and record “Round in all the Right Places”?

I wanted to sing a song that highlighted the specific things about round men that I find intoxicating.

Do you only date large men?

I have a round husband. Although I’ve told him how beautiful he is every day of our thirteen year relationship, he still doesn’t believe me.

There’s something innately wrong about that.

I wanted to create a piece of art that showed people a different kind of beauty. It’s my hope that someone who is round, discovering their sexuality, will hear this and grow up seeing their beauty.

When did you discover your attraction for large men?

I wrestled in college. I’d hang out and shower with young, fit men every day and I didn’t find them attractive. It led me to believe that I was asexual. Then, about a year after college, I fell in love with a round man. I was immensely attracted to him. I came to the realization that I was, in fact, not asexual. I just loved round men. I was very happy to have discovered that.

Who is your husband?

He’s Mike! He’s 51, plump, bearded, beautiful, and currently between jobs. By that, I mean he’s retired. He’s worked very hard and wants to spend time traveling, camping, laughing, and eating. I’m so very proud of him.

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How did you approach the sound differently from “Bears,” your first love proclamation to large men?

I made “Bears” five years ago. I’ve matured. I wanted something that sounded really round. I wanted it to be spacious, sultry and warm. I wanted something with a groove that you could settle into. I wanted the listener to nod to the groove, and realize they’re nodding in agreement as well.

Talk about the video.

It’s my first official stab at directing! We see fit and trim men and women shot, lit, and styled beautifully. That’s not the case for round men. I wanted to change that. I wanted to create images that were inarguably beautiful.

How did you find the men for the video?

I knew them from Instagram. I can say, without a doubt, that this is the most beautiful group of guys that have ever been shot in a music video. It is my dream cast.

How did they feel about getting naked for the video?

(Laughing) Imagine calling someone, introducing yourself and your project, and asking them to get naked at the same time? How is it possible to do that without sounding like a total creep? I had two or three conversations with each of them before we got to set, so everyone knew what we were trying to achieve.

Where do you want to go with your music?

For me, it’s about creating positive social change.

Honestly, fame and money are not motivators for me. I do things that give me visibility, in hopes of creating positive change. That is my daily, short term and long term goal.

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Original Image by Daren Cornell

How about personally?

I want to be the best husband that ever lived. I want to make my husband smile, laugh and achieve his dreams. I want to live vulnerably and openly, every second of my life.

Follow Tom on Instagram @tomgossmusic Website: http://tomgossmusic.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/tomgossmusic Twitter: https://twitter.com/tomgossmusic

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Where can you find a fitness icon, author, and talented musician. You can find all these qualities in one person: Bryan Hawn. He has been tearing up YouTube with his sexy parody versions of the top cover songs. From parody to serious rendition of cover songs he is becoming more than a pretty face and hot bod. In the years to come we will see more of Bryan and songs that will capture your heart and emotions.

Bryan Hawn Bryan, you are a one person dynamo as a fitness trainer, fitness author, YouTube sensation, recording artist, and you changed your life at one time for a very special friend Jake the Hyena.

Tell us first about your special friend Jake?

I raised him from 6 weeks old. We created a very special bond that captured the attention of Animal Planet and Nat Geo. He’s living proof that love can break down any barrier. Here is a video of one of my visits: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bdljhlvm2G8

Click to start watching video.

Did Jake inspire you to go after all your dreams?

Jake is a dream. Raising him was the single greatest moment of my entire life. He’s a reminder to me every day that there are no limits in this life.

In 2017 you returned to visit Jake and it was an emotional moment for both of you, is Jake a big part of what drives you? From deciding to take on the challenge of raising Jake to knowing when it was time to give him more than you were able, what effect did that have on you as a person?

When you care about someone or something, you do your best to get them in the best environment possible to thrive and succeed, even if that means letting go. I don’t need a piece of paper to know that I have his heart. It taught me that it’s not a label that makes something special.

It’s the seconds and hours of your day and thousands of flooding memories that get

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permanently imprinted on your heart that truly define a relationship.

Knowing what you know now about exotic pets would you undertake adopting another one?

Maybe someday if I have some land and the time and resources, but for right now I think I will just enjoy visiting Jake.

3 weeks before Sia released hers. So everyone found mine searching for the original. Being able to predict what’s gonna be a hit is half the strategy.

How does it feel having so much support from people online?

It started as a joke, but when people started asking about my workouts and buying my fitness products, I realized I had a business model, so I flowed with it.

I find this question fascinating. It’s honestly been an evolution. Anytime you get a lot of attention in the gay community, you have people who love you and people who are jealous. To be vulnerable to the compliments also makes you vulnerable to the haters. Finding your center, knowing who you are, and being proud of what you’re putting out there, regardless of who loves it or hates it, I believe is a test every public figure has to pass.

Especially when you are just starting out, people feel they can try to knock you down, but as I built my following and stayed the course it’s honestly died off. Cause at the point you have a million followers, the haters just look stupid, so they go prey on someone else. So now it’s just love. And it does feel nice, but I never forgot the journey that got me here. Loving myself regardless of who validated me or my work. When you reach the point where you no longer need people’s approval, that’s when you are really home free, and ironically, you end up getting it. People realize that you just don’t give a F*ck lol, and I think everyone wants to feel liberated from what others think, so that quality becomes magnetic.

You do everything from today’s top 40 to Disney, how do you decide what song to do next?

You’re branching out towards a professional singing career, what gave you the push you needed to want to go pro?

I try to do something current. A song that I can put a comedic spin on and reinterpret the message in my own special way. Sometimes it’s a gut feeling. When I first heard Chandelier, I knew it was gonna blow up. I had my video out

I think YouTube forcing me to sing my own covers. You spend a lot of time and money on a video just to have it blocked for using the original recording. That was the flashing message. “It’s time to sing Bryan.” Lol!

Fitness is a big part of your life and videos.

Did you use your talent as a singer to promote your physical training or was it the other way around?

My parody videos were an unconventional out of the box advertisement for my fitness products, books, calendars, workouts, videos, etc... I started singing them when Youtube started blocking me from using the original recordings.

Having a background as a recording artist, I said, “Screw it, I’ll sing the damn song myself, lol.” It’s added another dimension to my brand and given me a career as a singer as well.

What got you into doing covers/parodies?

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What is your favorite video you’ve done to date?

we can set a better example of how the rest of the world should treat us.

My most popular that the fans like is Bromance, but my personal favorite was “Bird Set Free”.

Having a background choir or real live Penguins and Elephant Seals was such an epic moment.

The incredible backstory and all the obstacles I overcame to make the video possible made the outcome that much more appreciated.

What advice would you give to people who want to start their own YouTube channel?

What are you most proud of in your life?

I am proud that I always listened to my own voice no matter what. We all have a journey that is specific to our own dreams, giftings, and talents.

It’s not that I thought I would never fall, it’s just that I knew I would always get back up. So. embracing failure and knowing that I was able to learn something from each and every attempt.

As a member of the LGBTQ community how do you feel you were received by the online populous when you first started making videos?

There comes a moment when you realize that everything people say about you has very little to do with us at all, and much more to do with how people feel about themselves. Happy people write happy comments. Miserable people write miserable comments. The straight community was very embracing and found my videos hilarious and entertaining. The gay community was a mixed bag, especially when I first started out. The only gay hate I ever got was from the gay community. It become very apparent how many LGBTQ people out there are struggling to love and embrace themselves for who they are.

I firmly believe when we learn to love ourselves and treat our own community with more kindness,

My advice would be to ask yourself why you want one. What is your identity? Product?

What are you offering to the world, but more importantly what human need are your videos meeting? What do people want, and how is your channel gonna help them attain it? What is your marketing strategy? Why will people want to watch? How are you gonna set yourself apart?

What makes you stand out? We as humans entertain ourselves to magnify human emotion.

What emotion are you connecting others with?

Why would they want to share your video?

Does it make them feel something, and will they experience it and want others to feel they same thing too? Are you connecting with your passion or are you just trying to make money? Do you have something of value to give or do you just want to be famous? Are you passionate about filming, editing, learning your camera, lighting, etc...? Are you willing to put yourself and content out there when its not perfect (Spoiler: it’s never perfect lol).

What can your fans look forward to seeing from you this year?

I’ve been working hard on the music side of things. I’m enjoying putting my voice out there, and giving people a chance to focus on the music without the visual distraction of naked muscles.

Those are fun too, but I’m enjoying putting out content where people are able to really listen and appreciate another side of who I am as an entertainer and artist. You can trust there will be a Lady Gaga cover coming from her new movie :)

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You can watch more of Byran’s videos and keep up with him via his socials: Youtube.com/BryanHawn Instagram: @BryanHawnOfficial OnlyFans.com/BryanHawn

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