07/08/16, Vol. 7 Issue 10

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REMEMBERING THE ORLANDO 49

Orlando shooting increases interest in active shooter training Homeland Security, local police offering workshops

How to respond when an active shooter is in your vicinity

By PATRICK SAUNDERS psaunders@thegavoice.com As the number of mass shootings continue to increase across the country, public demand is increasing for training in what to do if one finds themselves in the middle of an active shooter situation. And the June 12 shooting at Orlando LGBT nightclub Pulse that left 49 dead and 53 injured called particular attention to the safety of patrons at LGBT establishments both here in Atlanta and beyond.

While the Atlanta Police Department has confirmed increased patrols and the presence of plainclothes Homeland Security officers at the city’s LGBT establishments, various metro Atlanta police departments are also offering workshops to the public on active shooter situations.

The Clayton County Sheriff’s Office has teamed up with the Clayton County Police Department to provide active shooter survival training to any business, place of worship or group that wants the training in Clayton County. The Marietta Police Department has held several active shooter survival workshops for civilians, the most recent being on June 20 at Marietta High School. The Atlanta Police Department held four workshops on the topic earlier this year and they tell Georgia Voice that there are plans to do another but they have not locked down a date yet.

Texas State University program is national standard Before mass shootings became so common, active shooter training was just for law enforcement officers. The Advanced Law Enforcement Rapid Response Training Program (ALERRT), which was created at Texas State University in 2002, has become the national standard in such training. The FBI adopted the program following the Newtown, Connecticut shooting at Sandy Hook Elementary School in 2012 that left 27 dead.

As a result of increasing public awareness of such training and how to get it, the same team behind ALERRT created the Avoid, Deny, Defend (ADD) method for civilians. They’ve created a website for ADD that includes training materials, posters, flyers, videos and more. www.thegeorgiavoice.com

1. EVACUATE • Have an escape route and plan in mind • Leave your belongings behind • Keep your hands visible 2. HIDE OUT • Hide in an area out of the shooter’s view • Block entry to your hiding place and lock the doors • Silence your cell phone and/ or pager Officers from the Atlanta Police Department’s APEX unit were on hand at the local vigils for the victims of the June 12 shooting in Orlando. (File photo)

“Freezing is almost always the wrong response. It leads to a feeling of helplessness. When people feel helpless, their stress levels increase, which further hinders functioning. Taking action - any action - can help give a sense of control and help reduce stress response.”

—From the Avoid, Deny, Defend online resource for surviving active shooter situations The resources available include a look into the science of how people behave in high stress events like active shooter situations. They argue that there are three phases of response— denial, deliberation and the decisive moment.

Disaster survival researcher Amanda Ripley found that contrary to the common perception of people panicking and running during such situations, it was more common for them to deny that the event was happening.

“It takes time for the brain to process the novel information and recognize that the disaster is a threatening situation,” the site reads.

If a preexisting plan is not already in place for such situations, that leads to greater stress and therefore limits the body’s ability to perceive information and make plans. The physical effects of that stress include deteriorating motor skills, deteriorating cognitive

processing, tunnel vision and more.

“Freezing is almost always the wrong response,” the site reads. “It leads to a feeling of helplessness. When people feel helpless, their stress levels increase, which further hinders functioning. Taking action – any action – can help give a sense of control and help reduce stress response.”

They advise that once a decision is made in that situation, act quickly and decisively.

“Failure to act quickly can result in you remaining in a position to be injured or killed during an active shooter event. It is important to know your surroundings when you find yourself in a dangerous situation. The faster we can get through the phases of denial and deliberation, the quicker we will reach the decisive moment and begin to take action that can save your life and the lives of those around you.”

3. TAKE ACTION • As a last resort and only when your life is in imminent danger • Attempt to incapacitate the shooter • Act with physical aggression and throw items at the active shooter

How to respond when law enforcement arrives • Remain calm and follow instructions • Put down any items in your hands (i.e., bags, jackets) • Raise hands and spread fingers • Keep hands visible at all times • Avoid quick movements toward officers such as holding on to them for safety • Avoid pointing, screaming or yelling • Do not stop to ask officers for help or direction when evacuating

Information you should provide to law enforcement or 911 operator • Location of the active shooter • Number of shooters • Physical description of shooters • Number and type of weapons held by shooters • Number of potential victims at the location *Per the Department of Homeland Security

July 8, 2016 News 3

GEORGIANEWS

LGBT Georgia delegates heading to Democratic convention Georgia GOP lags in diversity of delegation

By PATRICK SAUNDERS psaunders@thegavoice.com At least 12 LGBT Georgians will be part of the state’s 117-member delegation heading to the Democratic National Convention on July 25-28 in Philadelphia. The Georgia Democratic Party claims this is double the amount of LGBT delegates they sent to the 2012 convention in Charlotte.

Among the contingent going to Philadelphia who self-identify as LGBT is Hillary Clinton supporter James Dustin Baker of Athens (who is making his second trip as a delegate after going in 2012) and Bernie Sanders supporters Michael David Smith of Columbus, Khalid Kamau of Atlanta (an organizer for the Atlanta chapter of Black Lives Matter), and Javier Brown of Atlanta (legislative assistant to state Sen. Vincent Fort [D-Atlanta] and state Sen. Curt Thompson [D-Tucker]). Georgia Democratic Party spokesman Michael Smith also identifies as LGBT and will be a convention page.

The prevalence of LGBT delegates is a result of affirmative action goals set by the Georgia Democratic Party that covered LGBT individuals, African-Americans, Hispanics, Native Americans, Asian-Americans and Pacific Islanders, people with disabilities and youth (defined by the party in this instance as being 36 years of age or younger).

GOP spokesman Ryan Mahoney confirmed to Georgia Voice that the Republican Party of Georgia set no such affirmative action goals, and there don’t appear to be any self-identified LGBT individuals among the 76 Georgia delegates going to the Republican National Convention on July 18-21 in Cleveland.

“Having the opportunity to witness history is indescribable, and there are moments where it’s a little overwhelming,” Smith said of being named a delegate. “It’s not lost on me that I and my fellow LGBTQ delegates are the beneficiaries of decades’ worth of battles fought by the generations that came before us. Their work is the reason why we

Supporters of Vermont Sen. Bernie Sanders (l) and former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton (r) will meet for the 2016 Democratic National Convention later this month. (File photos)

“I’m proud of my party—the party of inclusiveness and diversity and equality. It’s just such a shame that the folks headed to the GOP convention in Cleveland probably won’t experience that kind of embrace.”

—Georgia Democratic Party spokesman Michael Smith, who has been named a convention page have the privilege of representing our state in a welcoming environment, and in an open and honest manner. I’m proud of my party—the party of inclusiveness and diversity and equality. It’s just such a shame that the folks headed to the GOP convention in Cleveland probably won’t experience that kind of embrace.”

Mahoney did not respond by press time to reply to Smith’s comments.

Clinton racks up most of Georgia delegates Of the 117 Georgia delegates to the Democratic convention, 102 are pledged

delegates. Those 102 include 67 elected at April caucuses in each congressional district, 13 state and local leaders and officeholders, and 22 at-large delegates that were elected by the state party committee last month. All have signed pledges to support either Clinton or Sanders—the former Secretary of State racked up 73 pledged delegates from Georgia to the Vermont senator’s 29 on the March 1 presidential primary.

The remaining 15 are superdelegates— Democratic Party insiders who can support whichever candidate they choose, but those 15 going to Philadelphia are largely reported to be lining up behind Clinton.

Sanders delegate fights for minimum wage increase Kamau, who identifies as bisexual, is one of the six delegates from Georgia’s 13th Congressional District and the only Sanders supporter in the bunch.

“I think at some point I just realized delegates are real people and that I could be one of them, so I investigated the process,” he says of his path to Philadelphia. “Every step of the process just got me more engaged.”

Kamau acknowledges that there are some delegates going to the convention who will disrupt or do anything they can to make Sanders the nominee, a notion Kamau calls “dangerous.”

“One is I think it’s not an effective strategy. Hillary is probably going to win on the first ballot. And part of this ‘Bernie or bust’ campaign is trying to convince superdelegates to switch and that’s not going to happen,” he says. “And the more important, impactful reason is that by doing that you alienate the Hillary Clinton delegates and you spend all of your political capital on this impossible goal when there is a very real goal in play specifically on the $15 minimum wage.”

A draft of the party platform released on July 1 includes a call for raising the minimum wage to “at least $15 an hour.” That draft will go to the full Platform Committee for a meeting in Orlando on July 8-9, with a locked-in party platform published before the convention and ratified in Philadelphia.

Kamau will be in Orlando for that meeting, where he plans to push for that increase of the minimum wage and other issues of importance to Sanders supporters. But he says it’s not just because it’s something he supports, it’s about Clinton being effective should she win the presidency.

“The only way that Democrats can take back control of Congress is by keeping that 2008 Obama coalition together, and a significant portion of that are Berniecrats. And they’re not going to show up at the polls if there’s nothing in the platform for them to show up for. Some won’t show up at all if Bernie’s not the nominee, but the majority of them will show up if they believe that Hillary is going to fight for a $15 minimum wage and maybe not universal health care but universal child care. You have to give people something to stay engaged with the process. That is my entire goal as a delegate.”

4 News July 8, 2016 www.thegeorgiavoice.com

Madonna’s ‘Blond Ambition Tour’ dancers reunite in new documentary, ‘Strike a Pose’ (Publicity photo)

NEWSBRIEFS Madonna’s ‘Blond Ambition’ dancers to ‘Strike a Pose’ at Out On Film Atlanta’s annual LGBT film festival Out On Film has announced “Strike a Pose,” the highly anticipated documentary on the lives of Madonna’s Blond Ambition tour dancers, as its first film. The film is created by Ester Gould and Reijer Zwaa and is approximately one of 100 films that will be featured in Out On Film 29.

It’s been 25 years since the talented troupe of gay men and one straight burst onto the scene in “Madonna: Truth or Dare,” the documentary that introduced them to the world and forever etched a place in pop culture and the hearts of millions of fans across the globe.

Six dancers appear in “Strike a Pose” Kevin Stea, Carlton Wilborn, Luis Camacho, Jose Gutierez Xtravaganza, Salim Gauwloos and Oliver S Crumes III. (One of the original seven, Gabriel Trupin, died from complications due to AIDS in 1995 and is represented in the film by his mother, Sue Trupin).

“2016 is an exceptional year for LGBTQ films and ‘Strike a Pose’ is one of the standouts,” says Jim Farmer, Out On Film’s festival director. “Many of us in the LGBTQ community saw ‘Truth or Dare’ growing up and

were inspired by the out and proud dancers in the film. 25 years later, they are just as vital and charismatic. I think their stories will resonate deeply with our audience.”

Out On Film 29 is scheduled for September 29 – October 6 at the Midtown Art Cinema. The full schedule will be announced approximately August 22.

Fulton County HIV/AIDS task force unveils strategy to ‘end’ AIDS There are alarming rates of new HIV/AIDS infections in Fulton County, and in an ongoing effort to combat the problem, the Fulton County Task Force on HIV/AIDS on June 27 rolled out Phase II of their Strategy to End AIDS. Fulton County Board of Commissioners Chairman John Eaves and Commissioner Joan Garner created the Task Force in December 2014. The Task Force, which is comprised of a number of health professionals, community advocates and leaders in treatment and support services, unveiled Phase I of their preliminary objectives on World AIDS Day on December 1, 2015.

Phase II was unveiled at the Center for Civil and Human Rights, where Chairman Eaves and Commissioner Garner were joined

by Congressman John Lewis, Fulton County Health Director Dr. Kathleen E. Toomey, Fulton County HIV Task Force Co-Chairs Dr. Wendy Armstrong & Daniel Driffin,

and Dr. Melanie Thompson, the Task Force’s “Strategy to End AIDS” Executive Editor.

Fulton County’s rate of new HIV diagnoses consistently remains at over 600 per year, more than double that of San Francisco’s. Gay and bisexual men make up over two-thirds of those new diagnoses, four out of five of them were black and more than half were less than 30 years old according to the report.

Georgia schools receive mixed reviews on inclusiveness Colleges and public high schools in the Georgia school system are receiving mixed reviews on inclusiveness and their efforts to make their campuses safe for LGBT students.

According to the AJC, “LGBT activists say some schools discourage students from starting alliance groups with the word ‘gay’ in the name for fear of retaliation.”

However, “Kennesaw State University is lauded by LGBT students and organizations for creating housing specifically for LGBT students. LGBT community leaders say other positives include multicultural programs for LGBT students, along with gender-neutral bathrooms around campuses.”

Despite the national spotlight on access to bathrooms for transgender people, including students, Georgia’s six largest school districts do not track the number of transgender students in its system and are not required to do so by law.

6 News July 8, 2016 www.thegeorgiavoice.com

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All material in Georgia Voice is protected by federal copyright law and may not be reproduced without the written consent of Georgia Voice. The sexual orientation of advertisers, photographers, writers and cartoonists published herein is neither inferred nor implied. The appearance of names or pictorial representation does not necessarily indicate the sexual orientation of that person or persons. We also do not accept responsibility for claims made by advertisers.

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8 Outspoken July 8, 2016

“These freedoms that were hard-fought and won, they are fragile. In my lifetime, I’ve seen the pendulum swing both ways.

Make sure that you tell your story to your family, to your brothers and sisters here, so that we can continue this power, this love, and this experience for generations to come. I love you, and I’ll see you next time.”

— Iconic drag queen RuPaul during a speech at Pride Toronto.

(7/3 Screencap image)

“Even in our community, somebody comes out of the closet and someone starts ripping how they came out. It’s not good enough or strong enough…it’s the negativity. We have to stop tearing each other down. What’s important is loving each other, banding together, lifting each other up, and of course tackling all the major issues we’re in the middle of tackling.”

— Out actor Cheyenne Jackson in an interview with Out Magazine.

(6/27 Instagram)

“I’ve never been to Pulse nightclub in Orlando, Florida, but that doesn’t matter because I know it like the back of my hand. I know the kind of people that were there. I know the fun that they were having. I know the freedom that they felt to be able to be themselves, totally. I know the boys that they were kissing and I know the music they were dancing to. Because I have kissed those very same boys and I have danced to that very same music.

I have never been to Pulse nightclub in Orlando, Florida, and yet I’ve spent some of the best times of my life there.”

— Irish drag queen and activist Panti Bliss during a speech at the European Equality Gala. (6/29 Screencap image) www.thegeorgiavoice.com

IN THE MARGINS

Creepoftheweek

LGBT allies: Show up, do the work

Donald Trump would be disastrous for LGBTs

By Ashleigh Atwell

Ashleigh Atwell is a queer lesbian writer and organizer born and raised in Atlanta, GA.

“I’ve seen this at Pride and in the gay clubs. Straight people love when a queen death drops and will rave about their girl crush on Ruby Rose but when it’s time to do actual work, allies are few in number.”

It’s officially summer and that means two things: it’s hot as the devil’s toenails here in Georgia and it’s Pride season. LGBT folks across the country are gearing up to march, spectate and shine at celebrations across the country. This Pride season is particularly special because it will give the LGBT community a chance to display our resilience. The shooting that occurred at Pulse nightclub last et month shook us to our core but even as we grieve, we thrive.

When news of the shooting broke, straight people showed up and showed out. They were s listening ears when LGBT folks needed a moment and showed up in droves to donate blood when a draconian law prevented gay men from doing the same. A couple of my own friends messaged me to check in when they saw that I ne. was hurting and I’m eternally grateful for them. am) I think I can speak for many queer folk when I say that I am thankful for our true allies.

Still, there is work to be done.

“Ally” is a loaded term among LGBT folks, especially those of us that float in social justice circles. Many people are suspicious of so-called allies because some folks seem to be caught up on being seen rather than actually fighting for LGBT rights.

For many of them, their alliance is conditional and ends when an LGBT person pisses them off. They look like women, such as NeNe Leakes, that will adopt all the lingo and parade their gay friends around like a handbag but will use homophobic slurs at any man, regardless of sexuality, that pisses them off. Every time something major happens to the LGBT community, the performers rear their ugly heads. Rapper Nicki Minaj is extremely popular among LGBT folks but was silent after the www.thegeorgiavoice.com

shooting. When she was called out by one of her fans, she unfollowed him and blatantly ignored any other criticism.

Allies, I don’t ask much of you but there are two things you need to know: the first thing is everything ain’t about you. Yes, I do mean ain’t.

When you are allowed into LGBT spaces, whether it’s a club or the parade, you are a guest and need to conduct yourself as such. Don’t draw attention to yourself to show how progressive you are. You don’t have to announce how straight you are every two seconds. When you do that, it highlights your insecurities and it makes us queers suspicious.

If you really like our company, enjoy it and don’t make a big deal out of everything.

That brings me to my second point: we are not here for your amusement. When I’d go to the drag shows at my university, there was always a sexuality roll call. The host would go through each sexual orientation and ask for corresponding cheers if the label applied. The cheers from the straight folks were always the loudest. That wasn’t the problem.

I got bothered when the following weeks, at the LGBTQ alliance meetings, those same people were nowhere to be found. I’ve seen this at Pride and in the gay clubs. Straight people love when a queen death drops and will rave about their girl crush on Ruby Rose but when it’s time to do actual work, allies are few in number. Just a couple days ago, #heterosexualpride was trending, less than a month after the shooting. The only people I’ve seen complain are other queer and trans people.

I’m sick of it. I don’t like to think in binaries except for allies, get with it or get gone.

Either you’re with us or against us.

By D’ANNE WITKOWSKI As has been established, one of the first things Donald Trump did after the Orlando shooting was to hop on Twitter and basically congratulate himself “for being right on radical Islamic terrorism.” Granted he followed that with “I don’t want congrats,” but I doubt that. As one of the most narcissistic people ever to run for president, I’ll bet he gets a boner every time he’s praised.

On June 12, the Tweet that came before read, “Horrific incident in FL. Praying for all the victims & their families.” Which is an appropriate thing to say. But it doesn’t really mean shit because from that moment on Trump has been using the Orlando shooting for political gain, namely by crafting the narrative that President Obama and soon-to-bePresident Hillary Clinton are somehow softies for terrorists and that since terrorist groups like ISIS hate LGBT people, Obama and

Clinton basically hate LGBT people, too.

“Hillary Clinton can never claim to be a friend of the gay community as long as she supports immigration Donald Trump policies that bring Islamic extremists to our country and who suppress women, gays, and anyone else who doesn’t share their views or values,” Trump said in a June 13 speech.

In other words, since Trump, who doesn’t even support marriage equality, hates Muslims he’s a far better choice for gays.

And Trump is happy to capitalize on fear.

You can’t fight hate with hate, and yet that’s all Trump has to offer. And LGBT people have had more than enough hatred, thank you.

July 8, 2016 Outspoken 9

WORK

IT!

Helping Atlanta grieve, one pet at a time Paws, Whiskers & Wags owner Christine Hunsaker on her heralded pet crematory

By DARIAN AARON daaron@thegavoice.com Christine Hunsaker is in the death care business, which is actually not surprising once you learn that much of her childhood was spent in a funeral home owned and operated by her father. As the President and CEO of Hunsaker Partners, LLC, which operates Southern Cremations & Funerals, Holy Hill Memorial Park, and Paws, Whiskers & Wags—Hunsaker’s commitment to providing exceptional end-of-life services to humans, pets and the loved ones left behind is unmatched. Simply put: death becomes her.

And while that may sound a bit morbid, Hunsaker’s approach to the cycle of life we must all complete is anything but. The proof is in the success of Paws, Whiskers & Wags, the clients who become raving fans and the low turnover rate of over 100 employees in three states.

Georgia Voice caught up with the lesbian CEO at her Decatur office to gain more insight into what makes Paws, Whiskers & Wags the go-to business for pet owners and how she’s built a career on being the very best at saying goodbye.

Paws, Whiskers & Wags operates under full disclosure. Tell us why that’s so important for you and your customers?

Anyone can watch us work. We keep it all recorded on the cloud so that we can prove that one pet goes in [the crematorium] and one pet goes out. Everything is tracked online through our pet portal. Every pet that comes into our care is barcoded and we know when they left your home or veterinary prac-

“When your heart is broken and you’re devastated, what you want more than anything is someone to love you, respect your journey and to really take care of your loved one.

And we’re better at it in this town than anyone else.”

—Christine Hunsaker tice, when their cremation started and ended and when they went home. There’s an actual timestamp.

It’s not a loved one that’s cremated with others—that loved one is cremated alone every time and we can prove it. We’re the only ones that can prove it. And we go to great lengths because people need to know.

We live in a very litigious and skeptical society and everybody wants to know. I did and that’s why I got into the pet business.

Your business is unique in the sense that pet owners are able to view the actual cremation process.

Yes. Until our company arrived it was very sinister. It was very…put your pet in a trash bag, leave him at your vet and come back two weeks later and pick up something. And you didn’t know what you were getting. And there were no checks and balances. It was very secretive. Pets were traveling clear out of town way beyond places like Athens and elsewhere to facilities with high walls and closed doors.

And your business offers support for pet owners who are grieving every first Tuesday of the month.

Christy Simpson is our licensed counselor.

Our grief group is huge! Sometimes we have

Christine Hunsaker, owner of Paws, Whiskers & Wags, has created raving fans by providing exceptional end-of-life care. (Photo by Darian Aaron)

Details

Paws, Whiskers & Wags, Your Pet Crematory 2800 E. Ponce De Leon Ave. Decatur, GA 30030 404-609-1072 www.pawswhiskersandwags.com 20 to 30 people here and sometimes we have eight or nine. We stay open after we close and have this free grief group. A lot of times people have unreconciled grief or they don’t know how to handle it. Or they’re not getting the support from home or their co-workers or their community that they need. I’ve heard it a million times up here—people just sob. “I called out of work today and my boss said, ‘What are you crying for? It’s just a dog.’”

Well, it’s not just a dog, it’s family. Christy has done an amazing job of helping people heal.

Do you take the grief home with you?

The first month I started this company, I

called my dad and said, “Dad, I think I need to close the pet business.” He asked if it was struggling. I said, “No, it’s doing great but I just cry all the time.” He said, “Christine you will learn to channel that grief. And know that when they leave you they will feel better. It’s the worst day of their life and you have a calling to help them through it. Don’t get in their grief; recognize their grief, love them through it and you’ll feel better for yourself at the end of the day. You will learn to manage it.”

What do you know for sure?

I don’t know a single person that if you come through our door with your loved one in your arms that somebody isn’t gonna give you a hug and say, “Hey, come on in here.

I’m so sorry about your day today. And what’s that baby’s name you’re holding?” When your heart is broken and you’re devastated, what you want more than anything is someone to love you, respect your journey and to really take care of your loved one. And we’re better at it in this town than anyone else.

10 Community July 8, 2016 www.thegeorgiavoice.com

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Pets

Meet Zoo Atlanta’s gay flamingos and their chick

Male couple ‘best parents we had last year,’ says keeper

By PATRICK SAUNDERS psaunders@thegavoice.com You wouldn’t immediately notice anything different about the 57 different flamingos who call Zoo Atlanta home. They all have similar coloring and they participate in similar habits and rituals. But 15 years ago, bird keepers witnessed something a little unusual about two of the flamingos. They appeared to have paired up, which isn’t that odd considering the typical mating habits of the species.

No, what stood out was that the two were males.

Bird keepers estimate that the two, officially known as 20 and 46 since the flamingos aren’t given standard names, have been together since the early 1990s but that the zoo didn’t start keeping track of it until 2001. That means the pair, who were both born in the mid-1980s, recently celebrated their silver anniversary together.

What stood out even more about them is what they did around that same time—started a family together.

Same-sex attraction common in animals 20 and 46 are like any other flamingo couple at Zoo Atlanta. They’re together constantly, following each other around, eating together, almost everything. On one recent day, they really almost did everything according to Zoo Atlanta bird keeper Monica Halpin.

“We did see them yesterday kind of doing the pre-copulation thing,” Halpin told Georgia Voice on a recent visit to the zoo.

“We didn’t actually see them try and copulate, but yeah they’ll do everything together.”

Experts give varying numbers when it comes to the prevalence of same-sex attraction in animals. The Oslo Natural History Museum in Norway put on an exhibition on the topic in 2006, saying that same-sex attraction had been observed among 1,500 species but that it had been well documented in closer to 500.

“I just picked the three [pairs] that I thought showed the best potential for being parents and [the male pair] just happened to be one of them. They sat really tight on their egg so I gave them a chick and they raised it.”

—Zoo Atlanta bird keeper Monica Halpin Zoo Atlanta’s Halpin says the behavior is much more common in large social flock species like penguins, albatross and, yes, flamingos.

And 20, 46 and other gay animals across the world like them are actually playing a role in the larger conversation about LGBT rights.

In the landmark 2003 U.S. Supreme Court case Lawrence v. Texas, the American Psychiatric Association and other groups filed a “friend of the court” brief that cited Canadian biologist Bruce Bagemihl’s book “Biological Exuberance: Animal Homosexuality and Natural Diversity.”

This was the case that led to the striking down of sodomy laws in 14 states (including Georgia), therefore making same-sex sexual activity legal in every U.S. state and territory. Bagemihl’s book was also cited in 2000 by LGBT rights groups opposed to Ballot Measure 9, a proposed Oregon statute that prohibited teaching about homosexuality or bisexuality in public schools.

The measure failed.

And baby makes three Things get a little dramatic at Zoo Atlanta’s flamingo exhibit when it comes to parenting.

Halpin says it’s never 100 percent clear who the biological parents of each chick are because you never actually see the female lay an egg.

“It’s such a soap opera up there with so much constant swapping and fighting that you never know,” she explains.

What they do know is that last year, 20 and 46 got in on the action, either stealing a nest or an egg with one sitting tight on it and the other defending his mate and the egg from others. It soon became time for the bird keepers to pick the pairs that would raise the chicks. Halpin says sexual orienta-

Zoo Atlanta flamingos 20 and 46 watch over their chick, 50. (Photo by Monica Halpin)

tion never came into the equation.

“I just picked the three [pairs] that I thought showed the best potential for being parents and [the male pair] just happened to be one of them,” she says. “They sat really tight on their egg so I gave them a chick and they raised it.”

Number 50, as their chick is known, is now one year old and as is usual when the species reach that age, he’s broken off from his two dads to be on his own. Halpin is unequivocal when asked how 20 and 46 did.

“They were the best parents we had last year,” she says.

And the couple may have some like-minded friends in the flock. Just last week, the bird keepers started noticing a one-year-old and two-yearold male chick (not the chick that came from 20 and 46) spending a lot of time together, following each other around and even sitting on a nest.

“It’s really rare to see chicks that age up there. They’re usually about five or six before they start breeding and these chicks are one and two,” Halpin says. “Then especially to be up at the nest sight at all and having one sitting. They didn’t stay on the nest but I’m keeping an eye on them. They’re pretty cute.”

12 Pets July 8, 2016 www.thegeorgiavoice.com

Pets

PET PHOTO GALLERY

ROXY

GUS AND SAGE

Owners: Kyle Strahl and Trevor Primo Owners: Kyle Strahl and Trevor Primo Location: Atlanta Location: Atlanta

ODIN

Owner: Ethan Parish Location: Atlanta

BLOSSOM

Owner: Alison Bailey Location: Atlanta

TILOTHY AND ELCY Owners: Andrew Wood Location: Atlanta

www.thegeorgiavoice.com

MAGGIE AND TOPANGA

Owners: Jonathan McIntyre and Kevin Leonard Location: Midtown

AUGGIE

Owners: Randall and Andrew Bull Location: Midtown

BILLY AND LULU Owner: Stacy Braukman Location: Atlanta

THEO

Owners: Terri and Stacey L’Hoste Location: Midtown

LAQUITA

Owner: Alissah Brooks Location: Atlanta July 8, 2016 Pets 13

Pets

Marriage activists’ love is for the dogs, and cats, and more

Couple who sued for right to marry in Georgia own Snellville Pet Resort

Details

By DYANA BAGBY

flat-screen TVs that stay on for the pets because that is what they are used to at home, Stroman said. Rooms are also available for people with three or more pets.

During holidays, such as the Fourth of July and Thanksgiving and Christmas, the pets are treated to holiday meals complete with “pup dogs” or turkey and dressing. But the food is actually nutritional pet food made to look like human food, Stroman said.

“Chris is a vet so he makes sure the pets get appropriate foods,” he said.

Photos of the pets eating their holiday meal are then posted to Facebook so clients can see how they are doing.

Most pets boarded are dogs. There are plenty of rooms for cats, too, but oftentimes there are some open rooms. That’s when Stroman said his pet hotel makes room for some different kinds of pets.

Depending on the special instructions, Stroman said he is able to board exotic pets. The occasional iguana is boarded, for example, he said.

“We usually get them during off days – because people with exotic pets most likely don’t have kids,” he said. “These pets truly are their kids.”

The strangest pet housed by Snellville Pet Resort, however, is a pot-bellied pig.

“We put hay down and take in a slop bucket. Lucky for me I was raised on a farm, so it was okay with me. The family came in and asked and I said, yes, we can make that happen,” Stroman said. “And they’re a return client – they come in every two years.”

As a child, Shelton Stroman and his family had pets. And when he was in college, he had a dog. But after his dog died, Stroman swore off pets.

“I was heartbroken. It was like losing a child,” he said.

But his love for animals remained and he quit a computer career to work at a veterinary clinic as the practice manager where his then partner, now husband, Christopher Innis, worked.

“I met Chris and he was a vet and he had pets. I fell in love with his pets … and I went from working at a computer company to working at a pet hospital,” Stroman said.

Stroman managed the practice for eight years. Then, about five years ago, another company purchased the veterinary clinic. It was then that Stroman decided he wanted to strike out on his own.

He pitched his idea of a pet hotel and resort – an upscale boarding service – to Innis.

“And he was like, ‘Really?’” Stroman said, laughing.

But after a night of crunching numbers and careful consideration, Innis was on board, and their business, Snellville Pet Resort, became a reality, opening up in 2011.

Stroman manages the business while Innis, who works for Banfield Pet Hospital, serves as the resort’s doctor.

“I thought a pet resort was something that was missing in this area – most boarding facilities put pets in cages and there wasn’t a place as upscale,” Stroman said.

‘These pets truly are their kids’ Stroman said the facility offers 152 different rooms, from a “standard suite” to a “penthouse suite” complete with a queensized bed. Some rooms are equipped with

Snellville Pet Resort 2100 Fountain Square Snellville, GA 30078 www.snellvillepetresort.com

Finding a sense of community Stroman and Innis, who have been together for 15 years and married in May, were part of the Lambda Legal lawsuit against Georgia to bring same-sex marriage to the state. Innis was the lead defendant in the suit known as Innis v. Aderhold.

Top photo: Shelton Stroman (left) and Christopher Innis (right) are partners in life and business as owners of Snellville Pet Resort. Bottom: The couples love for animals range from domestic pets to exotic. (Photos via Facebook)

At home, Stroman, Innis and their son, Jonathan, 11, have a Jack Russell terrier named Haley, a chihuaua mix named Rocco and a gecko named Mister. “That’s Mister with a period,” Stroman said.

Their home is also a regular foster home for dogs and cats needing rehabilitation. As a vet with Banfield, which is housed in PetSmart stores, Innis is in regular contact with these animals – and he often brings them home.

“He doesn’t want to see a pet put down so he brings them home and we rehab them. He

brings pets from everywhere,” Stroman said.

Opening and operating a pet hotel is just one way Stroman said he and his family contribute to their community. The family’s home is also a popular spot for neighborhood kids to hang out with their son.

“We want to feel a sense of community – that’s sometimes difficult when you are part of a same-sex couple,” he said.

“We like taking care of kids, and we like taking care of pets,” Stroman said. “Me and my husband do [both] quite well.”

14 Pets July 8, 2016 www.thegeorgiavoice.com

www.thegeorgiavoice.com

July 8, 2016 Ads 15

Pets

Adventures in Puppydom

Lesbian-owned DiOGi Pet Services launches nonprofit to help ‘keep pets in their home’

By RYAN LEE Courtney DeDi’s parents weren’t keen on her having a pet when she was younger, going so far as to tell her that she suffered from allergies. But that didn’t stop DeDi’s love of animals from shining through.

“I was always the first kid to volunteer to take home the guinea pig, or hamster, or whatever kind of class pet we had,” DeDi says. “And then my mom would pick me up at school and I would be standing there with big cage and a smile on my face.

“She now says she wishes she would have let me have a dog when I was younger, because then maybe I wouldn’t have so many now,” DeDi says.

In 2010, DeDi’s love for animals inspired her to launch DiOGi Pet Services, a company that offers pet sitting, walking and training. DiOGi specializes in dogs with special needs or behavioral issues, but serves all animals, including goats, chickens and ducks.

“Urban farming is becoming such a popular thing in the city and I just felt like it was something that was neat,” DeDi says. “It’s something fun and new, and we’ve got some urban farmers on our team of dog walkers and pet sitters, so they’ve got the knowledge to help people set up their farms, and how to integrate new chickens into their coop, and all of that kind of stuff.”

Pet training is essential DeDi has a passion for making sure pet owners are informed and educated, and admits that some of her knowledge has been acquired by trial-and-error.

“Mini pigs don’t exist – there’s no such thing,” she jokes. “I thought I was getting a mini pig. They said, ‘Oh, maybe 60 pounds.’

Now he’s 200, and he’s still growing.”

Even with more traditional pets, DeDi and her business partner, head dog trainer Emily Parker, see how often people find

“So what we do is we go into lower-income areas of Atlanta, pass out food, talk with people, create that kind of community relationship so that they feel comfortable with us.”

—Courtney DeDi themselves overwhelmed by the prospect of rearing an animal.

“I think a lot of people get a dog expecting one particular personality, and then they get them home and three weeks later they’re a totally different animal,” DeDi says.

“It’s mostly shelter dogs, because when they’re in that environment they kind of shut down, and their real personality doesn’t come out for two to three weeks until they’re adjusted to their new environment.”

Another common misstep by new pet owners is “wanting their puppy to enjoy puppyhood,” and delaying important training until the dog is a year or year-and-a-half years old, DeDi says.

“They don’t utilize the time when their dog is like putty,” she says. “They’ll keep their puppy inside, they won’t take them for new experiences. I think people forget that umbrellas are scary, that skateboards are scary, so they kind of set their dog up if they’re not doing that socialization in that window of time when they’re open to understanding and learning. People often overlook that, and then they end up with a dog that needs further training because the dog is terrified of skateboards, and sometimes that leads to the dog being so anxious that they lunge and bite a skateboarder,” she adds.

Community building through nonprofit In addition to its pet sitting and walking services, DiOGi also hosts a Puppy Adventure Club every Sunday for dogs that are between eight weeks and 3 years old.

“They come together and play, but it’s not just about socialization with other puppies,” DeDi says. “It’s also being introduced to scary things such as a pool, a skateboard, taking a bath – we make all of these experi-

Courtney DeDi, DDS, of DiOGi Pet Services (Courtesy photo)

ences a positive so we really get the puppies started on the right foot in life.”

DiOGi has also developed a relationship with Atlanta’s film industry, perfecting an on-demand service that DeDi hopes they can expand to their general offerings.

“They’re the kind of people who need oncall, right-now services,” DeDi says. “Their schedules are so crazy that they don’t have time to plan. Let’s say filming happens, then they change the schedule up, and we have to be on set at midnight to walk their dog.”

Earlier this year, DeDi launched a nonprofit arm known as DiOGi Cares, which is intended to help lower-income Atlantans keep their dogs if financial or behavioral issues arise.

“The main focus of our group is to keep pets in their homes,” DeDi says. “So what we do is we go into lower-income areas of Atlanta, pass out food, talk with people, create that kind of community relationship so that they feel comfortable with us. Then we also offer free training classes for people in lower-income areas, to come and participate with their dogs.

“What’s been really great about it is that we’ve seen wild, wild dogs the first day,” she adds. “People are just like, ‘I want to get rid of my dog. I’ve thought about it many times,’ and then by the end of that session they’ll be like, ‘Wow, I didn’t know my dog was that smart and could do all those things.’

It happens a lot. Our clients will be like I can’t keep their dog, and we help them.”

16 Pets July 8, 2016 www.thegeorgiavoice.com

Pets

PET EVENTS

These animals are waiting to meet you!

Consider adoption or a list of events for pets and their owners

By DARIAN AARON daaron@thegavoice.com Are you interested in expanding your family? Perhaps the idea of raising a little one that will eventually talk back is more of a headache than you’re prepared to deal with at the moment. Well consider easing into one of life’s major responsibilities by adopting a pet. Our friends at Angel Among Us Pet Rescue are sharing some of their amazing pets currently up for adoption—familiarize yourself with their furry cuteness and check out all of the events Georgia has to offer throughout the year for pet owners and their loved ones to enjoy.

Meet Cusco Cusco is a gorgeous corgi/beagle/jrt mix. He is around eight months old and weighs approximately 15 pounds. Cusco is a little timid at first and really likes being with other dogs for confidence so he is looking for a home with another dog his size to play with. He is part beagle and may have a tendency to roam so he will also need a home with a fenced yard. He is working on his house training and is also working on crate training.

AROUND THE STATE Pets Are Family Health Day Free Spay/Neuter/Vaccines For residents of 30310, 30311, 30314, 30315 and 30318 July 9 10 a.m.-2 p.m.

Washington Park 102 Ollie St. Atlanta, GA 30314 Fun with Dogs AWCR July 10 10 a.m.-1 p.m.

The Canine Ranch Doug Smith Lane Canton, GA 30114 RescueCats Cat Adoption Fair July 16-22 11 a.m.-4 p.m.

PetSmart 1986 Mount Zion Road Morrow, GA 30260 678-817-9647 Doggie Daze July 16 9 a.m.-11 a.m.

4055 Roswell Road, NE Atlanta, GA 30342 404-345-1008 North America Diving Dogs Trial-Brightside July 23-24 9 a.m.-4:30 p.m.

The Brightside 2032 Jones Phillips Road Dacula, GA 30019 North America Diving Dogs Trial-The Dog’s Place Aug. 6-7 9 a.m.-4 p.m.

The Dog’s Place 4314 East Cherokee Drive Canton, GA 30115

Meet Starlette Starlette is a Collie/Shepherd mix who is calm and smart as a whip too! This sweet nine-year old dog was turned into the shelter because her family was no longer able to care for her. She sits when you ask her, she walks well on her leash, she is up to date on shots, and she is spayed, micro-chipped and heartworm tested. She also gets along with other dogs. She also likes to chase cats—so homes that also include cats are not ideal. www.thegeorgiavoice.com

Meet Prince Charming This adorable kitten definitely lives up to his name. Prince Charming is a playful kitten that is well socialized with a happy demeanor. His adoption fee includes: combo test, vaccinations (FVRCP, FeLV, rabies), spay/ neuter, microchip, flea prevention and de-worming, which will save his new owner a lot of money.

Best Friends Strut Your Mutt Sept. 24 8 a.m.-Noon Historic Fourth Ward Park Atlanta, GA 30312 Paw Festival Sept. 25 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

Top Dogs Boutique George Busbee Parkway, NW Kennesaw, GA 30144 404-408-8888

July 8, 2016 Pets 17

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‘The Naked Magic Show’ plays The Buckhead Theatre July 8-9.

AUSSIE MAGICIANS

STRIP DOWN ‘The Naked Magic Show’ gives new meaning to ‘magic stick’ in ATL tour stop

By JIM FARMER When Australian magicians Christopher Wayne and Mike Tyler were thinking about how to shake up the industry, they hatched the idea to incorporate some full-frontal cheekiness into their act. Suddenly, “The Naked Magic Show” was born. After sold out engagements around the world, the show visits Atlanta this weekend. We spoke recently with Wayne, himself an LGBT activist, to find out about the bare-assed fun the night brings – and whether he expects more straight women or gay men at the show.

CONTINUES ON PAGE 25 www.thegeorgiavoice.com

July 8, 2016 A&E 19

ACTING OUT WWW.GARYALEMBIK.COM

✓OTE L R

CRITICAL OCAL UNOFF TUESDAY, JULY 26, 2016

WHO WILL YOU SELECT AS YOUR NEXT SUPERIOR COURT JUDGE? YOU BE THE JUDGE:

ALEMBIK IS A NATIVE ATLANTAN WHO IS DEDICATED TO ALL OF THE FAMILIES AND CITIZENS OF FULTON COUNTY

JUSTICE COUNTSEXPERIENCE MATTERS VOTE FOR JUDGE ALEMBIK EARLY VOTING THROUGH JULY 22ND The Broad Experience Our Community Deserves

By JIM FARMER

Broadway-bound musical ‘The Prom’ sets world premiere at the Alliance It’s the most anticipated theatrical event of the 2016 - 2017 season, as well as the gayest. The Alliance Theatre presents the musical “The Prom” on August 18 and a number of events will lead up to the opening.

In the new musical, teenage Emma makes headlines when she wants to bring her girlfriend to her high school prom with her.

Her school, however, is aghast and decides to cancel the prom rather than grant her wish. Wishing to un-do a wrong, a group of fading celebrities – Broadway entertainers looking to keep their name in the headlines - visit Emma’s small town in Indiana to fight the cause. Their activism, though, does more harm than good and the situation gets even more chaotic.

Overseeing the project is Tony Award-winner Casey Nicholaw, the openly gay director and choreographer who steered the Alliance’s 2015 world premiere of “Tuck Everlasting” to Broadway just a few months ago. His other Broadway credits include “Something Rotten,” “The Drowsy Chaperone,” “The Book of Mormon,” “Elf” and “Aladdin.”

Michael Wynn the Alliance’s manager of community engagement calls “The Prom” an “amazing piece of theater.” “It’s great to have a musical from Casey, who is all over Broadway right now,” he says. “It’s a great, interesting story about all that happens just because a girl wants to take another girl to the prom. It’s about a community coming together, people understanding each other and their differences. It’s also about what you go through when you fall in love with someone.”

On July 20, many of the members of the creative team, including Susan Booth, the artistic director of the Alliance Theatre, Nicholaw, composer Matthew Sklar, librettist Bob Martin, and lyricist/librettist Chad Beguelin, will lead “Behind the Musical,” a discussion about the world premiere musical. The lead actress, Caitlin Kimunnen – who plays Emma, was in Atlanta this spring to perform a number at the theater’s Taste of the Season event.

Following the event will be an actual prom, geared for those who might have not actually had the opportunity to take the one

‘The Prom,’ a new musical at the Alliance Theatre is set to run from Aug. 18-Sep. 25

they wanted to their own prom, says Wynn.

The event is open to all ages and sexual orientations. “We are having it for the entire LGBTQ community and anyone else, without judgment,” he says.

Wynn wants to make the event as authentic as possible. “We are going to try and get it as close to a real prom as we can – decorations, lights, a place to take pictures, as well as a DJ and a special performance,” he says. He will also be working with commu-

nity partners to provide information/tabling at the event.

The Alliance Theatre recommends dressing accordingly for the special event.

“The Prom” is expected to move to Broadway at a later date. Rehearsals will be starting soon.

The Behind the Musical and The Love Wins Prom event are free but reservations are required at alliancetheatre.org/BehindTheMusical.

20 A&E July 8, 2016 www.thegeorgiavoice.com

EATING MY WORDS

By CLIFF BOSTOCK

Porch Light Latin Kitchen wields an enormous pork chop “Who the hell is doing the cooking?” I asked myself several times during a visit to Porch Light Latin Kitchen (300 Village Green Circle, Smyrna. 678-309-9858, porchlightlatinkitchen.com).

It’s certainly not because the food wasn’t good. But owner/chef Alex Gomez seemed to be spending more time in the narrow dining room than the kitchen. He went from table to table, occasionally erupting in laughter. Toward the end of our meal, he even took a seat at our table. I’d heard this from numerous friends, but was nonetheless surprised that I actually enjoyed his company. Believe me. That’s novel.

Over the years, I’ve had many chefs who knew me – Gomez didn’t – plop in a chair and prattle without moving for what seemed like endless periods of time. Friends would glare at me, kick me under the table, and go to the restroom, eventually surrendering to their role as a silent audience until I rudely interrupted the chef by saying, “Hey, my food is getting cold!” or “Whoa! Look at the time!”

Gomez’s food is as good as his company.

The main influence is his Puerto Rican background, and his dishes will remind foodies of Hector Santiago’s at the defunct and muchmissed Pura Vida. For example, Gomez serves mofongo, one of my favorite dishes anywhere. His is made of mashed yuca rather than the traditional green plantains, giving it a milder taste. The earthy globe is surrounded by hunks of duck confit and sits in a pool of mushroom broth.

Share the mofongo with a few other starters like just freakin’ amazing sliced empanadas. Their crunchy shell is filled with contrasting, velvety “avocado aioli” and braised pork cheek. Even the queso fundido exceeds the usual watery stuff around town. It actually tastes like cheese and gets its hot notes from rajas – diced, grilled poblano peppers.

The one starter I didn’t like so much was the conch fritters. The five hushpuppy-looking fritters were far more breading than conch.

A chayote slaw and a poblano-spiked remoulade did boost the flavor appeal.

My entrée, the pork chop, was by far the www.thegeorgiavoice.com

Porch Light Latin Kitchen’s “can can” cut pork chop is a favorite with lean meat and a crispy outer edge. (Photo by Cliff Bostock)

most impressive at the table. The cut is called a “can can” and consists of a curving mass that wraps from the loin to the belly. You get the lean meat of the chop, plus long layers of fatty meat and pure fat turned crispy on the outer edge. I couldn’t even approach eating the whole thing after so many appetizers and – warning – it didn’t reheat well at home.

Most of the other entrees are a bit more prosaic but compelling.

There are also four street-food type dishes – sandwiches, tacos, and a burrito. These are all $12 and under, while entrees will set you back $20-$25. Of course, you do have the option of ordering a whole suckling pig two days in advance. We considered it, but couldn’t bring ourselves to look a murdered baby pig in the eye. What else? There are a few groovy sides and condiments, and traditional desserts like tres leches. I couldn’t even consider trying one.

Finally, another warning: Make a reservation for dinner or lunch. If you are not familiar with the metropolis of Smyrna, give yourself plenty of time to find the place. It’s in some kind of maze-like shopping development that we encircled multiple times before spotting it.

EVENING FOR

EQUALITY

A huge THANK YOU is due to all of this year’s sponsors, hosts, and donors for making the 12th Annual Evening for Equality the most successful event in Georgia Equality’s history.

You’ve all played a significant role in our mission to advance fairness, safety and opportunity for Georgia’s gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender and allied communities.

WE HOPE TO SEE YOU ALL AGAIN NEXT YEAR!

Cliff Bostock, PhD, is a longtime Atlanta food critic and former psychotherapist who now practices life coaching for creative types; 404-518-4415.

July 8, 2016 Columnists 21

Our Guide to the Best LGBT Events in Atlanta for July 8-21

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THURSDAY, JULY 21

Georgia Voice’s 2016 Best of Atlanta Awards presentation party is this evening. Enjoy complimentary appetizers from Henry’s Midtown, DaVinci’s Pizza, Green Ginger Decatur, and Campagnolo Restaurant + Bar while sipping complimentary Portal del Alto wine and Tito’s Vodka signature cocktails. 6:30-9:30 p.m., at the Georgian Terrace Hotel, www.facebook.com/ events/286243361765723 (Photo by Jean Bartlett)

FRIDAY, JULY 8 – SATURDAY, JULY 9

They do magic, and they are bare-assed!

Two Australian magicians perform “The Naked Magic Show” tonight at 8 p.m. and Saturday 5 and 9 p.m., The Buckhead Theatre, www.thebuckheadtheatre.com

FRIDAY, JULY 8

EVENT SPOTLIGHT FRIDAY, JULY 8

Monica Van Pelt and Angelica D’Paige present the rowdy Synergy, 11 p.m. Burkharts, www.burkharts.com (Courtesy photo)

22 Best Bets July 8, 2016

Atlanta Eagle hosts the Hotlanta Rubber & Gear Club, 10 p.m. – 3 a.m., www.atlantaeagle.com

SATURDAY, JULY 9

Atlanta Pride’s annual Trans March is doing something a little different this year. An open call is being held for transgender and gender non-conforming dancers who know how to shake their thing. Feminine? Get in Trans-Formation! Masculine?

Get in Trans-Formation! In Between or Nei-

ther? Get in Trans-Formation!!! Any questions?

Email Laura@atlantapride.com, 12 – 2 p.m., Rush Center Annex, www.rushcenteratl.org

and help raise money for Atlanta Pride, Agave Atlanta, 242, Boulevard E, Atlanta, GA 30312

SUNDAY, JULY 10

Play blackjack with Miss Lauren at 7 p.m. at Woofs Atlanta, www.woofsatlanta.com

DJ Morabito spins at 3 a.m. at Xion Atlanta, www.facebook.com/ events/240924132918113/ Come out to 10th and Piedmont tonight for some outstanding food and drinks and to support a great cause. A portion of the proceeds from from the night’s checks will be donated back to Out Front Theatre Company, which starts producing this fall with gay-themed work, 6 – 11 p.m., www.facebook.com/ events/1789419574623274/

MONDAY, JULY 11

Dine out today at Agave from 5 –10 p.m.

TUESDAY. JULY 12

Charis welcomes James Magruder, author of critically acclaimed novels, “Sugarless” and “Let Me See It” to read from his newest novel, “Love Slaves of Helen Hadley Hall.” Every September since 1958, a fresh batch of residents arrives at the Yale graduate dormitory that bears the name of one Miss Helen Hadley, a nineteenth-century ectoplasmic emanation still residing at 420 Temple Street, New Haven, Connecticut. Every year she selects her favorites, follows their adventures, cheers on their romantic shifts

www.thegeorgiavoice.com

TELL US ABOUT YOUR LGBT EVENT Submit your LGBT event for inclusion in our online and print calendars by emailing event info to editor@thegavoice.com and stratagems, and picks up their lingo.

With the university threatening to bulldoze her home, she decides to chronicle her favorite year, the nine months in 1983–84 when Silas Huth, Becky Engelking, Nixie Bolger, Carolann Chudek, and Randall Flinn took up the manacles of erotic attachment and parsed meaning from every little movement of their rapacious, beating hearts. 7:30 – 9 p.m., www.charisbooksandmore.com J’s Lounge is the home for Rainbow Tuesdays, with Dymond Onasis and Nicole Paige Brooks leading the fun and DJ Destin providing house music, 1995 Windy Hill Road #1, Smyrna, GA 30080

WEDNESDAY, JULY 13

With its huge annual Pride festival and vibrant LGBTQ nightlife scenes, Atlanta is regarded as an LGBTQ haven. Yet when it comes to the overall safety of the city’s diverse populace, serious questions have gone unanswered. Social Studies: Is Atlanta REALLY an LGBTQ haven? will address the concerns and real-time struggles — from MARTA to public health to education — of all the queers and others who call Atlanta home. 6 - 8:30 p.m., Center for Civic Innovation, 115 Martin Luther King Jr. D, SW, Atlanta, GA 30303 Atlanta Pride, SOJOURN and Out On Film present a free screening of the film “Oriented,” looking at the new generation of Palestinians, tonight at 7 p.m.

Rush Center Annex, www.facebook.com/ events/164333017298363/ Are you DRAGnificent? This elimination series seeks out the best up-and-coming drag talent. Doors open at 8 p.m., Jungle Atlanta, www.jungleatl.com DJ Stan Jackson spins for the Pig Dance Blackout party tonight at the Heretic, 10 p.m. – 3 a.m., www.hereticatlanta.com

THURSDAY, JULY 14

SAGE Atlanta’s social hour begins at 10 a.m., followed by a program/meeting

www.thegeorgiavoice.com

THURSDAY, JULY 21

Out director Brian Clowdus presents the musical “Miss Saigon” tonight at Serenbe Playhouse at 8 p.m., running through Aug. 7.

Yes, a live helicopter will land every night! www.serenbeplayhouse.com (Courtesy photo)

Trivia Night is every Thursday at My Sister’s Room, with doors opening at 6 p.m., bingo from 8 –10 p.m. and trivia to follow, as well as food and beer specials, www.mysistersroom.com

Kick back under the stars in the Ivester Amphitheater in Gainesville and enjoy the amazing sounds of the Indigo Girls during the Atlanta Botanical Garden’s Concerts in the Garden, 8 p.m., 1911 Sweetbay Drive, Gainesville, GA 30501, atlantabg.org/visit/events/ indigo-girls

FRIDAY, JULY 15

SUNDAY, JULY 17

DJ Tommy spins at 9 p.m. at BJ Roosters, 2043 Cheshire Bridge Road, Atlanta, GA 30324

Today’s PFLAG meeting will include a panel featuring a Lutheran pastor, a Catholic priest, and a Presbyterian pastor. A leader from the Catholic group Fortunate and Faithful Families will also be present. 2:30 p.m. – 5 p.m., Spiritual Living Center of Atlanta, 1730 Northeast Expressway NE, Atlanta, GA 30329

at 11 a.m., Phillip Rush Center Annex, www.rushcenteratl.org

DJ Laura Gentle plays all the hits and your requests, 9 p.m. – 1 a.m., The Hideaway Atlanta, www.atlantahideaway.com

SATURDAY, JULY 16

The summer’s best pool party and fundraiser is back – Joining Hearts 29: A Brand New Day. The event, held to raise awareness and funds to provide care and housing assistance to people living with HIV/AIDS in Atlanta, will feature live entertainers throughout the evening and music by DJs Luis Perez and Australia’s Dan Slater with three levels of experiences: General Admission, VIP and Ultra VIP, 4-10:30 p.m., at the Piedmont Park Pool, www.joininghearts.org

Wake up and make joyful noise with the Sisters of Sequin – Bubba D. Licious and Justice Counce – at Gospel Brunch, Lips Atlanta, www.atldragshow.com

WNBA season is in full gear. The Atlanta Dream host the Los Angeles Sparks at a 3 p.m. game today Philips Arena, www.philipsarena.com

CONTINUES ON PAGE 24

EVENT SPOTLIGHT THURSDAY, JULY 14

In “Undoing Monogamy,” Angela Willey offers a radically interdisciplinary exploration of the concept of monogamy in U.S. science and culture, propelled by queer feminist desires for new modes of conceptualization and new forms of belonging. Come hear Willey read from and discuss the book tonight at Charis Books, 7:30 – 9 p.m., www.charisbooksandmore.com (Courtesy photo)

July 8, 2016 Best Bets 23

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MONDAY, JULY 18

Trans and Friends is a youth focused group for trans people, people questioning their own gender, and aspiring allies. Charis provides a facilitated space to discuss gender, relevant resources and activism around social issues. Whether silently or aloud, please come ready to consider your own gender in a transient world. This is a project of the Feminist Outlawz and is co-sponsored

by Charis Circle’s Strong Families, Whole Children, 7 – 8:30 p.m., www.charisbooksandmore.com Come hang out with the Pride kickball players tonight at Blake’s. www.blakesontheparkatlanta.com

TUESDAY, JULY 19

In a mood for games? “Let’s Make a Deal” with Ken from 6 - 10 p.m., might hit the spot, Friends on Ponce, www.friendsonponce-atl.com

WEDNESDAY, JULY 20

Learn about the Alliance Theatre world premiere production of “The Prom” at a special Q&A moderated by Alliance Theatre Artistic Director Susan V. Booth. You’ll hear straight from openly gay director/cho-

reographer Casey Nicholaw, composer Matthew Sklar, librettist Bob Martin, and lyricist/librettist Chad Beguelin about how this show happened and why you should be looking forward to it. Then stick around for the Love Wins Prom — it will be the prom you always wanted to attend. Yes, you should dress accordingly.The event is free, 7 p.m., www.alliancetheatre.org Awarded ‘Best Open Mic 2015’ by Atlanta Magazine, “Duets” is a monthly singersongwriter and artist showcase, hosted and run by Kyle Kirkland, featuring local live original music and cover songs as well as works from local artists, photographers, jewelers, authors & many others.

Tonight features Chelsea Shag, J. Tyler, Indee Killed the Pop Star, Princess Charles, Stephanie Lloyd, and the Crafty Virgo, 9 p.m., www.facebook. com/events/287551581584397 Enjoy free pool at Bulldogs, 893 Peachtree Street, Atlanta, GA 30309

THURSDAY, JULY 21

The Pretty Girl Hideout Thursdays is tonight, hosted by Mook Dahost, Soul Bar at Pal’s Lounge, 254 Auburn Ave., Atlanta, GA 30303, www.traxxgirls.com

UPCOMING SATURDAY, JULY 23

Atlanta Pride invites LGBTQ families and kids of all ages to enjoy a day of picnic, games, kids’ yoga, painting, and more! This event is free and open to the public Donations are welcome.

Glenlake Park, 1121 Church St., Decatur GA, 30030. Please call 404-377-7231 with questions The Human Rights Campaign invites you to their inaugural tennis social – Serving for Equality. Players of all skill levels are welcome to participate in this doubles event, and will receive a gift bag with a retail value of over $40.

Don’t have a doubles partner? HRC will pair you up with other players and you can make some new friends along the way. Each ticket purchased goes towards HRC’s important mission of LBGTQ equality in Atlanta and across the country.

The event will have a DJ, food, cocktails, a silent auction, and a photo booth to enjoy while you cheer on your friends as they serve aces for equality. 6 – 10 p.m., Sharon Lester Tennis Center, www.hrc.org/sfeatlanta

EVENT SPOTLIGHT SATURDAY, JULY 23

“Looking: The Movie” premieres on HBO at 10 p.m. tonight, wrapping up the beloved series starring Jonathan Groff and Murray Bartlett, www.hbo.com (Photo by HBO/Melissa Moseley)

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1 9 T H

C H A RG E BY P H O N E : 8 0 0 - 745 - 3 0 0 0 . A L L DAT E S, AC T S A N D T I C K E T P R I C E S SU B J EC T TO C H A N G E W I T H O U T N OT I C E . T I C K E T P R I C E S SU B J EC T TO A PP L I C A B L E F E E S.

24 Best Bets July 8, 2016

www.thegeorgiavoice.com

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 19 Howdy Chris! How did you get into magic?

I have been doing it for 10 years. It’s been my job since I was a kid. Three years ago Mike and I came up with this idea. He had been doing magic for eight years. Magic was our first love.

How did you and Mike meet?

We met at an event where he was the entertainment and I was the guest. We were the same age, living in the same city, in the same industry but we had never crossed paths. I went to an event and he was one of the best acts I had ever seen. I had to meet him and we became best friends.

Tell us about the idea to do this.

We felt that the industry was dated. It has all been done. Magic needed to be reevolved or re-energized. We asked ourselves, what can we do that has never been done before? We realized that in the whole history of magic, no one had ever taken it to that naughty place. We spent over a year putting it together. We wanted it to be the most hilarious show you could possibly see, and naughty and sexy as well.

What was it like the first time you did it?

We had six nights booked in Brisbane.

Three weeks before it was sold out. We thought, this better be good! That was in 2014 and we have not had a chance to stop since. The first time was terrifying. We weren’t strippers before. We had never been naked in a room full of strangers. I almost threw up. We took our clothes off and people started clapping and cheering. We knew we had something good. The best part of

www.thegeorgiavoice.com

Details ‘The Naked Magic Show’ July 8 – 9 The Buckhead Theatre 3110 Roswell Road NW Atlanta, GA 30305 www.thebuckheadtheatre.com

our day, bar none, is when we are naked in a room in front of people.

So you don’t start off naked, correct?

We decided it would be more rewarding for the audience to wait. We wanted to make them work for it. Let’s put a bit of foreplay in it. We lose our clothes bit by bit throughout the show.

What are your audiences like?

It can be a girls night out, but we have a huge gay following as well. It’s a fun show for couples. In D.C, 95 percent of the audiences were guys.

You are very much an LGBT activist, correct?

I was a Christian pastor and I denounced my faith when I was 25 years old. One of the reasons was, I couldn’t deal with the church’s stance on marriage equality. I had friends who are gay and lesbian. We are one of the last countries in the Western world not to legalize gay marriage. It breaks my heart that my friends who love each other the same way I can love aren’t allowed to get married. I have seen friends who want to adopt and it takes twice as long. When this show became popular, I had a voice, and it was a great way to share my opinion on marriage equality. I want people to know that a straight boy from Brisbane is on your side fighting for you.

July 8, 2016 A&E 25

THAT’S WHAT SHE SAID

By MELISSA CARTER

Job well done, Coach Summitt “Whatever it is that you desire to do in life, have the courage and the commitment to do it, and to do it to your absolute best.”

—Pat Summitt I lost one of my heroes last week in the death of Pat Head Summitt. I was born and raised in Tennessee, and went to the University of Tennessee where she coached, which would naturally make me a fan. However, the main reason Coach Summitt was so special to me is because through her I found what I admired most in my late father.

My dad was the star of his high school basketball team in Kentucky, but because of his service in the Korean War he missed the opportunity to try out for his beloved Kentucky Wildcats. He was able to attend the University of Kentucky after the military and watched the Big Blue play basketball from then until the end of his life.

I wasn’t as interested in basketball growing up, but I was fascinated by my father’s love of the game. Dad poured the concrete himself to create a small basketball court in our backyard, where I learned the fundamentals of H.O.R.S.E. He attended high school tournaments in Nashville, even when he had no kids in high school, and hung an NCAA tournament grid on the kitchen wall every year.

Dad also watched Coach Summit. I was introduced to the University of Tennessee Lady Vols as a young girl because Dad refused to turn the channel. Of all the basketball games we had to endure him watching, those involving the Lady Vols made the biggest impression on me. That’s because my tough, athletic, military dad was as interested in girls playing as the boys. He never complained that women were slow or didn’t dunk, and he considered Coach Summitt one of the best in the game years before any sports analysts said the same. Coming from a man who went to the UK when Coach Adolph Rupp was at the helm, my father’s accolades of any other coach— let alone a woman—was a huge compliment.

“Through Dad and Coach Summitt, I learned one of the most important lessons in my life: it doesn’t matter who is playing in a game, as long as they are playing the game. To be a true fan of a sport is to encourage others to take part, and anyone who makes fun of any player for participating is not a real fan.”

Through Dad and Coach Summitt, I learned one of the most important lessons in my life: it doesn’t matter who is playing in a game, as long as they are playing the game. To be a true fan of a sport is to encourage others to take part, and anyone who makes fun of any player for participating is not a real fan. Even though I am not an athlete, I have taken the message with me throughout my life that as a woman I am good enough and worthy to compete.

You have seen the impressive records of Coach Summitt, but I think the most important thing she accomplished was actually leveling the playing field, not just basketball but every playing field. She helped women learn not to be ashamed to sweat, be aggressive, and steal the ball. She taught us to argue calls that weren’t fair and deflect passes that aren’t in our best interest, and how to rebound when someone else can’t make the shot. As players in the Game of Life, women are every bit as important as the guys, and I was lucky enough to be the daughter of a man who understood that.

Thanks, Coach, and I hope you and Dad now get to shoot some baskets together.

Melissa Carter is one of the Morning Show hosts on B98.5. In addition, she is a writer for the Huffington Post. She is recognized as one of the first out radio personalities in Atlanta and one of the few in the country. Follow her on Twitter@MelissaCarter

26 Columnists July 8, 2016 www.thegeorgiavoice.com

SOMETIMES ‘Y’

By RYAN LEE

I hate your dog (or maybe it’s just you) A coworker and I were returning from lunch one afternoon when he confessed to me his dislike of a particular ilk of people, then asked me if I thought this made him a horrible person.

“Oh, we all have our biases and prejudices,” I said, trying not to sound too horrified by what I had just heard.

“Who are you prejudiced against?” he asked.

“Well, I can’t stand people who like dogs.”

“Wait, that’s not niche enough to be a prejudice,” my co-worker scoffed. “That’s like 98 percent of human beings.”

I paused for a second, and then concluded, “That’s a fair estimate.”

I don’t like dogs, which I know makes me the most awful, heartless and untrustworthy person on planet Earth. More specifically, I don’t like how I’m expected to like everyone’s dog, and raise no objections to their increasingly intrusive presence in American life.

I hate dogs in the workplace, in stores and especially in restaurants. I loathe the whole pets-are-people-too movement that has elevated canines to the same level of humans, deserving of equality, justice and even trigger warnings.

The most recent example of this is the un-American meme scolding people for shooting fireworks on the 4th of July without considering how traumatic the sounds can be for our precious little pooches. If your dog doesn’t like fireworks, you might have a commie pinko in your home.

I laugh at the near-universal misconception that dogs offer unconditional love; stop feeding your dog or otherwise taking care of its every need for a few days, and I bet you’ll learn how conditional its love is. It’s worth noting that I’m writing this column during the same weekend that I am dog-sitting for a friend, which underscores my belief about how irrational dog owners can be.

My most annoying interactions with dogs come on city streets, where many pet owners mistakenly believe that their dog – and specifically, its leash – is entitled to take up fivewww.thegeorgiavoice.com

“I hate dogs in the workplace, in stores and especially in restaurants.

I loathe the whole pets-are-people-too movement that has elevated canines to the same level of humans, deserving of equality, justice and even trigger warnings.” sixths of the sidewalk, and they assume that everyone loves their dog. I shouldn’t have to step into traffic, or show discomfort toward your dog’s sniffing, before you exercise the most basic responsibilities of pet ownership.

A couple of weeks ago, I was walking to lunch and approaching a guy walking a teacup dog of some sort. The dog walker saw that I was coming, and had plenty of time to rotate his wrist and make sure his dog was under control, but the dog lunged at me and made me take an irregular step.

In my altered path, my foot happened to kick a small pebble, which projected into the pup’s butt region and caused him to yelp. I truly felt bad, because as much as I dislike dogs I have no desire to go around being violent toward them, and because I only wish the inconsiderate dog owner could have felt some of his pet’s pain.

For my frustration is more with pet owners than the animals themselves, and their presumption that everyone wants to be their dog’s best friend.

Ryan Lee is an Atlanta writer.

July 8, 2016 Columnists 27

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