The Georgia Voice - 9/13/13, Vol. 4 Issue 14

Photo of Evah Destruction by Matthew Terrell

Featuring . . .

Counter-Culture Drag Divas in ‘Legendary Children’photo exhibit. Page 6 Read about controversy surrounding show at www.thegavoice.com New gay shows!

Familiar faces, new characters fill fall lineup. Page 6

Lesbian love Intergenerational romance in new French film. Page 26

Taking on Wan Gay councilmember faces two challengers. Page 15

Atlanta’s LGBT Film Festival

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Celebrating Pride at the Movies

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Film Schedule At A Glance

What is Out on Film?

Out on Film is Atlanta’s own LGBT film festival.

We’re in our 26th season.

Out on Film was created in 1987 to inform, entertain, educate and enrich the regional LGBT community by recognizing the creative work of LGBT artists and professionals.

Where is the event?

The majority of films are shown at the Landmark Midtown Art Cinema, 931 Monroe Drive, Atlanta GA 30308.

How do I buy tickets?

Tuesday, October 1

7:00 pm Valentine Road

Gay Documentary @ Rush Center

Thursday, October 3

7:00 pm G.B.F. Gay Comedy

OUT ON FILM

9:15 pm I Always Said Yes: The Many Lives of Wakefield Poole - Gay Documentary

Yes. Out on Film schedules opening and closing night parties plus events before and after select films, including Q&As with filmmakers.

How can I learn more? www.outonfilm.org has details about films and schedules, trailers, special events, volunteering, and more FAQs.

Lesbian Documentary (French Canadian)

6:30 pm The Blacks of Their Eyes Gay Documentary

7:00 pm Who’s Afraid of Vagina Wolf Lesbian Romantic Comedy

7:25 pm The Happy Sad

Gay Lesbian Romantic Drama

Friday, October 4

5:20 pm Geography Club

9:00 pm Free Fall

Gay Romantic Drama (Germany)

Gay Lesbian Comedy Drama

7:05 pm Breaking The Girls Lesbian Romantic Drama

Tuesday, October 8

9:05 pm Hot Guys With Guns

5:00 pm The Battle of AmFar

11:20 pm Solo

6:00 pm Under The Rainbow Shorts - Various 6:30 pm Mr. Angel - Transgender Documentary 7:15 pm First Period - Gay Comedy 8:00 pm The New Black

Gay Drama

Gay Romantic Drama (Argentina)

Saturday, October 5

11:00 am Margarita

Lesbian Romantic Drama (Canada)

11:20 am Pitstop

Documentary

FREE MOVIE

Gay Lesbian Documentary

9:10 pm Kill Your Darlings Gay Romantic Drama

Gay Romantic Drama

12:45 pm Women’s Shorts

Tickets can be purchased at www.outonfilm.org, the Landmark theater, and online at the Landmark’s website. Please visit www. outonfilm.org for ticket information.

Are there other activities?

Monday, October 7

4:00 pm Intersexion - Transgender Documentary 5:40 pm Lesbiana - A Parallel Revolution

12:00 pm Noon Shorts

Gay Documentary

3:30 pm Seventh-Gay Adventists

Gay Various

5:30 pm Two: The Story of Roman and Nyro

Gay Lesbian Documentary

9:10 pm Getting The Go: The Go Doc Project

6:00 pm Big Joy: The Adventures of James Broughton - Gay Documentary 7:15 pm Reaching For The Moon

11:20 pm Truth

7:30 pm Meth Head

3:00 pm Men’s Shorts 5:00 pm Breaking Through 7:05 pm I Am Divine Gay Documentary

Gay Romantic Drama

October 3 - 10, 2013

Gay Romantic Drama

Sunday, October 6

Landmark Midtown Art Cinema

Wednesday, October 9

Lesbian Various

1:00 pm The Rugby Player

Various

Gay Lesbian Documentary Gay Documentary

Lesbian Romantic Drama Gay Drama

9:15 pm Southern Baptist Sissies Gay Comedy

11:00 am Tell No One

Gay Romantic Comedy (Italy)

outonfilm.org

Thursday, October 10

11:00 am Gore Vidal - The United States of Amnesia - Gay Documentary 12:40 pm F to 7th - Lesbian Comedy FREE MOVIE 12:45 pm Before You Know It

2:30 pm I Always Said Yes: The Many Lives of Wakefield Poole (Encore)

3:10 pm Melting Away

5:30 pm Best Of Shorts

5:00 pm Test - Gay Drama 6:45 pm Birthday Cake - Gay Comedy 8:50 pm Hawaii

7:00 pm Ian Harvie Superhero

Gay Documentary

Gay Romantic Comedy (Israel)

Gay Romantic Drama (Argentina)

Gay Documentary

4:30 pm Joy! Portrait of a Nun Gay Documentary Various

Gay Romantic Comedy

8:30pm Bridegroom Gay Documentary

Out On Film Lounge

Sposored by Absolut and Après Diem, the “26 Lounge” is the perfect location to relax between films and to meet our filmmakers!

Our Movies • Our Stories • Our Lives v

This program is supported in part by the Georgia Council for the Arts through the appropriations of the Georgia General Assembly. GCA also receives support from its partner agency - the National Endowment for the Arts.

4 | GA VOICE

09.13.13

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OFF THE CHAIN. ALWAYS.

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09.13.13

IN THIS ISSUE OF GA VOICE “It will not admit youth who are open or avowed about their homosexuality, and it will not admit boys who are not ‘biologically male’ or boys who wish to dress and act like girls.”

Ellisorous Rex (Photo by Blane Bussey)

6 | ATLANTA'S 'LEGENDARY CHILDREN ' OF DRAG

OUTSPOKEN FRIENDS & FOES IN THEIR OWN WORDS

—Basketball great Magic Johnson, whose son came out as gay earlier this year, in a recent interview (TheGrio.com, Sept. 9)

“I was like, ‘Great! Bring on the gay jokes!’ because these aren’t insults at all. I don’t even care if people think I’m gay, so it was like, ‘Awesome!’ … I wish I was gay.”

— Actor and director James Franco on gay jokes told about him at a recent roast (TheDailyBeast. com, Sept. 9)

— Press statement from Trail Life USA, the new alternative to the Boy Scouts of America, which held its inaugural convention Sept.

7-8 in Nashville. The group was spawned by the Boy Scouts’ controversial decision to no longer kick out gay scouts. (CNN. com, Sept. 9) Official logo

“I’m glad that I get to represent that, and also, just hopefully inspire people with my character to love who they are and accept who they are and not give a crap what other people think.”

— Actress Demi Lovato, who will play a lesbian character on “Glee” this fall. (Huffington Post, Sept. 9)

Photo by Hinkle

“I’m fighting for those who should have the right to marry who they want, and be the person that they want to be, because we have all different types of African-Americans around this country. Some are gay, some are heterosexual and you should have the right to be who you want to be, and [marry] who you want to marry.”

Photo by Angela George / CC 3.0

Publicity photo via Facebook

FALL PREVIEW 6 | Feature: Atlanta’s ‘Legendary Children’ of drag.

7 | Events: Atlanta Pride, AIDS Walk and more to fill your calendar.

9 | TV: Sean Hayes debuts as gay dad; gay faves return.

10 | Theater: Extended season offers debuts, familiar hits.

12 | Film: Plenty of LGBT fare on the big screen this fall.

13 | Music: Elton John, Lady Gaga top fall music offerings.

NEWS 15 | Gay politicians face reelection challenges.

16 | AID Atlanta launches national search for new director.

17 | Photos: Black Gay Pride draws thousands.

19 | News in brief: More benefits for gay spouses, Ga. Democratic chair on gay marriage

VIEWS 20 | Editorial: Who says you can’t go home again?

CALENDAR 22-25| Our Best Bets for the next two weeks

COLUMNISTS 26 | That’s What She Said: Melissa Carter has egg on her face with her girlfriend.

27 | Domestically Disturbed: Topher Payne isn’t happy with Happy Meals.

facebook.com/thegavoice twitter.com/thegavoice

“When I think about the folding in and the repeal of ‘Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell’ and the homosexual takeover of so much of our military I’m not sure how effective those naval ships will be.”

Publicity photo

—American Family Association radio host Sandy Rios, explaining why the U.S. military will not be prepared for a strike on Syria (Right Wing Watch, Sept. 3)

6 | GA VOICE

FALL PREVIEW

09.13.13

www.theGAVoice.com

Atlanta’s ‘Legendary Children’ come out to play Photo exhibit captures drag queens in their unnatural environments

By DYANA BAGBY When it comes to the art of drag, Atlanta is home to numerous styles, families and expressions. But in just the past year or so, a new drag scene is emerging in the city — from The Other Show at Jungle to Gurlfrandz at Mary’s to Tossed Salad at Noni’s. Some queens read poetry at performances, others sing live. Edgy, raunchy, creative, artistic – those are some of the words fans of this revival of sorts are giving to what they are seeing on stages in Atlanta’s gay, and not-so-gay, venues.

Inspired and enamored by this new element in Atlanta’s already thriving drag arena, several gay photographers decided to capture it for the show “Legendary Children,” a photo exhibit of local drag stars including Edie Cheezburger, Jaye Lish, Lavonia Elberton, Ellisorious Rex, Evah Destruction, Brigitte Bidet, Cayenne Rouge, Mo’Dest Volgare, Kryean Kally and Violet Chachki.

The key to the exhibit was to have the queens not posed on a stage or while performing, but rather out of their so-called element in such places including the grocery store, Zoo Atlanta, the Belt Line and the Old Fourth Ward Skate Park.

The show is now open to the public at gallery 1526 and will include a Sept. 28 reception and drag show featuring all of the queens photographed. The show is sponsored in part by Atlanta Pride and is part of the 15th annual Atlanta Celebrates Photography fest in October, a month-long celebration of photography through exhibitions and events.

Photographers for the exhibit are Jon Dean, Blane Bussey, Blake England, Kevin O and Matthew Terrell.

The exhibit is already garnering national attention with stories in Huffington Post and Vice.

Also, Violet Chacki is wearing the crown of Sharon Needles in several of her photographs.

Needles is a past winner of RuPaul’s Drag Race and rumor is that Violet stole the crown when Needles was in Atlanta and eventually it was returned. When asked about the crown, Violet would only say, “The crown is buried in Piedmont park along with my ‘Drag Race’ audition tape! HA!” Photographer Jon Dean answered a few questions about the show: How did the idea for this show come about?

Jon: The idea for the show originated in the summer of 2012. I had just moved to Atlanta and was reconnecting with one of my longtime friends, who had just started developing his own drag persona, Cayenne Rouge. We have always collaborated on little projects and were looking for a chance to do something creative again. I really wanted

DETAILS ‘Legendary Children’ Closing reception Sept. 28 7-11 p.m.

Hosted by Nicole Paige Brooks gallery 1526 www.legendarychildrenatlanta.com

Drag queens included in ‘Legendary Children’ include Violet Chachki (above), Cayenne Rouge (lower left) and Evah Destruction (below). (Cayenne Rouge photo by Jon Dean, Evah Destruction photo by Matthew Terrell, Violet Chachki photo by Blake England)

generation of young queer people, and even to a wider audience. Straight people flock to The Other Show (at Jungle) and Gurlfrandz (at Mary’s) and they have a blast! These shows are giving an outlet to the queens who don’t just want to look pretty or fishy. It’s not just about the lip synch anymore — our girls are singing live, doing poetry readings and sometimes flying around on aerial silks. It’s always exciting to watch.

to get a little queer art show together for the Atlanta Celebrates Photography festival that October.

The problem was, how do we get people to come to another photography show or another drag show? The timing was not right, and things really didn’t start picking up until the beginning of this year. I was introduced to Blane Bussey, who was already shooting the majority of these queens. He had a great body of work going and we decided to curate a show.

You identify these queens in the exhibit as part of a “changing face” of Atlanta’s drag scene. Explain what you mean.

We truly could not have put this show on a year ago. Atlanta has always had a vibrant drag scene, but there is really something special about this specific time and this community. These queens are speaking for a

How did you select the queens to be part of the show?

Before we started discussing the show, the photographers were already gravitating towards these specific queens. They were doing exciting things in the city and they all had a willingness to collaborate with us. It’s not always easy to get other artists to understand and trust your vision, but they were completely on board. Half of these queens have their own shows now — Edie Cheezburger’s “The Other Show,” Ellisorous Rex’s “Gurlfrandz,” Lavonia Elberton’s “Coven,” Brigitte Bidet’s “Tossed Salad” and Jaye Lish’s “Birds of Paradise.”

What else would you like to say?

The one thing that I’m really proud of is the fact that we’ve been able to bring together 15 gay men to plan a show, and somehow we are all still getting along. There have been hiccups along the way, but we have really created a unique kinship. The idea of family and “drag mothers” and “drag daughters” is a big part of the community. As a young gay individual living in the south, we kind of have to create our own families. We’ve definitely accomplished that and I’m proud to be working with such creative people.

www.theGAVoice.com

09.13.13

Fall is full of fun events Good climate brings LGBT folk out for autumnal adventures

by DAVID AARON MOORE Here’s one part of the seasonal entertainment that’s absolutely free: along with the lessening heat and a gradual decline of the amount of daylight comes the changing of foliage color.

Throughout October and the beginning of November we’ll see many of the trees and plants go from green to orange, red and yellow.

In a city like Atlanta with many historic neighborhoods such as Midtown, Morningside, Grant Park, Inman Park and others – all full of mature trees – you won’t have to go far for some spectacular scenery.

A lot of inner city residents, however, like to take to the road and head for nearby Asheville and the Blue Ridge Parkway, where the seasonal color changes are quite likely the most vibrant in the country.

If you’re not much for road trips, there’s plenty to do back home in Atlanta.

Kicking off the Art on the Beltline Exhibit Saturday, Sept. 7, was the annual Lantern Parade. Continuing throughout the end of November will be an ongoing series of art exhibits and live performance art presentations. It’s an experience not to be missed – not only is it good exercise, the artwork and natural scenery are both enjoyable.

Atlanta’s annual Pride celebration has grown in leaps and bounds in recent years, to the point that it has become practically a month-long celebration leading up to a weekend festival in the park (with performance by Taylor Dayne) and a massive Pride Parade.

The Dyke March got things off to an active start Sept. 11, which will be followed by a cocktail party at Garden*Hood Atlanta Sept.14, “Paint with Pride” at Sips ‘n Strokes at Toco Hills Sept. 21, and a Trans March Community Planning meeting Sept. 25. Multiple bar parties continue throughout September and October.

Of particular note: watch for continuing literary events at Charis Books and More, a much anticipated and unusual exhibit of drag photography art – “Legendary Children” – at Gallery 1526

The changing of the seasonal colors along the Blue Ridge Parkway offers a breathtaking view of fall. (Publicity photo via Facebook)

opening Sept. 28 (see cover story) and the weekend Pride celebration, which will include a Pride Kick-Off Party at the Georgia Aquarium and a commitment ceremony on the 27th floor of W Atlanta Midtown.

As in years past, Lambda Legal will hold a garden party for friends and supporters. This year it’s slated for Sept. 29, beginning at 3 p.m. and wrapping up at 6 p.m.

The party – celebrating 40 years of Lambda Legal success – will take place at the home of Randy New and Russell Tippins.

Set for Oct. 20 in Piedmont Park is the 23rd Annual AIDS Walk Atlanta & 5K Run. Produced

by AID Atlanta, it is the largest AIDS-related fundraising event in the Southeastern United States.

The event, which raises much-needed funds for AIDS support organizations throughout the Atlanta Metro area, begins at 7 a.m and continues until 4 p.m.

The theme for this year’s Jerusalem House Halloween Party is “Fairy Tales and Magic.” An annual fundraiser for the largest provider of permanent housing for families affected by HIV/ AIDS and low income families, it has become one of the most popular Halloween events in the city. Kick-off begins at 7 p.m. on Oct. 26 at the Foundry at Puritan Mill. A costume contest is included, along with an after party at the Heretic.

While many events in November and December have yet to be announced, check back in the pages and on the website of Georgia Voice for additional details on other upcoming holiday celebrations.

AIDSWalk Atlanta includes a 5k run that attracts thousands. (Publicity photo via Facebook)

GA VOICE | 7

SELECTED FALL EVENTS: Art on the Beltline The Atlanta Beltline Sept. 12 – Nov. 27 http://beltline.org/

Atlanta Pride Piedmont Park Oct. 12-13

Atlanta Arts Festival Piedmont Park Sept. 14 – 15 www.atlantaartsfestival.com

Sisterlove’s 2020 Leading Women’s Awards Georgia Freight Depot Oct. 18 www.sisterlove.org

Lambda Legal Garden Party Private location, TBA Sept. 29 www.lambdalegal.org/atlanta

AIDSWalk Atlanta & 5k Run Piedmont Park Oct. 20 www.aidswalkatlanta.com

Out On Film Landmark Theaters Oct. 3-10 www.outonfilm.org

Jerusalem House Halloween Party: Fairy Tales and Magic The Foundry at Puritan Mill Oct. 26 www.jerusalemhouse.org

The Gay & Lesbian Victory Fund Champagne Brunch Intercontinental Hotel Oct. 6 www.victoryfund.org

ATLANTA PRIDE WEEK www.atlantapride.org

Official Pride Kick Off Party The Georgia Aquarium Oct. 11 Atlanta Pride Commitment Ceremony W Atlanta, Midtown Oct. 12

World AIDS Day Various locations Dec. 1 www.worldaidsday.org For The Kid in All of Us Annual Toy Party & Silent Auction America’s Mart 3 Dec. 8 www.forthekid.org

8 | GA VOICE

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09.13.13

DIAVOLO

Friday, September 20

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ARTURO SANDOVAL Friday, October 4

8 p.m.

“Sandoval’s playing is unabashedly spectacular, yet he uses his technique with dramatic finesse.”

–The New York Times

STeVeN LIN Friday, October 11

AtlAntA Premiere

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“His tone was unfailingly beautiful, his articulation extraordinary, as crystalline as could be in bravura bits, elegantly refined in legato lines.” –The Baltimore Sun sponsored by

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Call today for tickets!

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FALL PREVIEW

TELEVISION BY JIM FARMER

New LGBT programs down from previous year Some current shows bulk up gay roles, add new gay characters This time last year, Hollywood – as well as the LGBT community – was all abuzz about the lofty number of LGBT programs that were coming to network TV. It was a record high.

A year later, that bubble has been burst. Most of those high-profile shows are now gone, having fallen one by one. CBS’s “Partners” with Michael Urie was canceled quickly. “The New Normal” lasted a little longer but still bit the dust at NBC, which also canned the acclaimed “Go On,” with Julie White in a supporting role as a lesbian.

Returning shows, too, had rough roads. NBC’s “Smash” started quickly but burned out and ABC’s “Happy Endings,” which had a quirky gay character, fell victim to mediocre ratings.

The number of LGBT characters and programs is a lot lower for the 2013 television season, yet there are still some signs of LGBT life, says Matt Kane, GLAAD’s associate director of entertainment media.

Perhaps the most prominent new gaythemed show is “Sean Saves the World,” which stars openly gay Sean Hayes of “Will and Grace” fame. Here he returns to NBC to play a single gay dad trying to raise a teenage daughter.

“It doesn’t seem to be about his character being gay,” says Kane. “That is not a defining feature.” It premieres Thursday, Oct. 3, at 9 p.m. and co-stars Linda Lavin and Megan Hilty of “Smash.”

Fox will air the new cop comedy show “Brooklyn Nine-Nine” starring Andy Samberg as a detective and Andre Branaugh as a gay, bythe-book police captain. It bows Sept. 17 at 8:30 p.m.

The current “Under the Dome” (airing Mondays at 10 p.m. on CBS) is based on Stephen King’s novel about a small town sealed off by a dome. Not only is it highly rated — it was the nation’s most watched program for the week of Sept. 1 — but it features a lesbian couple, Carolyn (Aisha Hinds) and Alice (Samantha Mathis), who were not present in King’s book, says Kane.

While CBS has been very gay-inclusive in its reality shows such as “Survivor” and “Amazing Race” (with the Beekman Boys winning “Race” last season), CBS has never been overly progressive in LGBT fare, according to Kane. Thus he is pleased with “Dome’s” lesbian inclusion as well as more racial diversity of LGBT characters this

year, including the African-American ones in “Dome” and “Brooklyn Nine-Nine.”

The producers of ABC’s upcoming “Once Upon a Time in Wonderland” (a spin-off of “Once Upon a Time,” debuting Oct. 10 at 10 p.m.) have promised they will feature a gay character, although at press time it’s unclear who or where in the season that will be.

Perhaps more than any other network, the premium cable network HBO will have a healthy share of LGBT programming. Although dates have not been released, the network, never afraid of gay or controversial material, will air “Looking,” directed by Andrew Haigh (“Weekend”) and starring out gay actor Jonathan Groff (“Glee”) and out British actor Russell Tovey. It’s about a group of gay friends in San Francisco.

One of the issues producers will deal with is the difference between how the older generation and younger generation view HIV/AIDS. Ryan Murphy, creator of “Glee” and “American Horror Story,” continues to be the busiest man working in TV. His “Open” series on HBO will star Jennifer Jason Leigh and Anna Torv (“Fringe”) as a lesbian couple. Leigh’s character is a high-powered actress in a long-term relationship with Torv until adultery threatens them.

And finally, sometime late this year or early next, HBO will air a star-studded version of the AIDS-themed “The Normal Heart” with the likes of Julia Roberts, Taylor Kitsch and Mark Ruffalo.

It hasn’t escaped Kane or GLAAD’s attention that many LGBT characters on TV died last season. The canceled “Southland” killed off gay character John Cooper in the final episode, while “Degrassi: The Next Generation’s” trans character, Adam Torres, passed away too.

“There is a history of LGBT characters dying,” Kane says, lamenting the loss of both those two landmark characters.

On the positive side, Fox’s “Glee” will increase the role of Alex Newell’s Unique, as the series returns Sept. 26 at 9 p.m. with a two-part Beatles episode. Unique is now the only significant trans character on television.

Here is a look at some other veteran shows:  “Modern Family” (returns Sept. 25 at 9 p.m. on ABC): The Emmy darling returns for its fifth season. Out actor Jesse Tyler Ferguson and Eric Stonestreet as male couple Mitchell and Cameron are part of TV’s funniest ensemble.  “Grey’s Anatomy” (returns Sept. 26 at 9 p.m. on ABC): “Grey’s” has featured the lesbian

In the role of a single gay man raising a daughter, former ‘Will & Grace’ star Sean Hayes returns to TV in ‘Sean Saves the World.’ (Publicity photo)

relationship between Callie (Sara Ramirez) and Arizona (Jessica Capshaw) for several years now; when season 10 begins, an affair will threaten their wedding vows.  “Two and a Half Men” (returns Sept. 26 at 9:30 p.m. on CBS): Not known for its LGBT inclusivity or any kind of hip factor, the sitcom’s eleventh seasons will include Amber Tamblyn as the illegitmate daughter of Charlie Sheen’s character — and she’s into women.  “The Good Wife” (returns Sept. 29 at 9 p.m. on CBS): Now in its fifth season, the show features the bisexual character of Kalinda Sharma, played by Emmy winner Archie Panjabi.  “American Horror Story” (returns Oct. 9 at 10 p.m. on FX): The third season, titled “Coven,” features out performers Sarah Paulson and Denis O’Hare, plenty of guest stars and lots of witches for the fall.

09.13.13

GA VOICE | 9

10 | GA VOICE

FALL PREVIEW

09.13.13

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THEATER BYJIM FARMER

LGBT productions pack season Two perennial favorites return for another bow Not only is the upcoming 2013-2014 local theater season packed with LGBT themed and LGBT friendly productions, but it’s a season that’s longer than perhaps any other on record. Aurora Theatre began its fall season this summer with “Les Miserables” and now everyone else is catching up and unveiling their openers.

The big news at the Alliance Theatre is Barry Manilow’s revisited musical “Harmony” – the story of a boy band in ’30s Germany, half of whom were Jewish, who were disbanded by the Nazi party – but it’s far from the only offering from the company.

Back in 2006, gay playwright Tarell Alvin McCraney debuted his fine “In the Red and Brown Water” at the Alliance, as part of the Kendeda playwriting competition. Since that time, he’s been produced all across the country.

He has returned with “Choir Boy,” a coming of age story about Pharus, a young AfricanAmerican teenager at the R. Drew Prep School for Boys. The title character is never identified as gay although everyone seems to know and realize it, especially his classmates, who bully him.

“Choir Boy” is a co-production with the Manhattan Theatre Club, where the play opened this summer to exceptional critical success.

Gay director David Crowe’s just-opened “Venus in Fur” at Actor’s Express is a two person play dealing with sex and power. Vanda (Veronika Duerr) is an actress determined to get a role and Thomas (Adam Fristoe) is her director. They two eventually wind up playing a psychological cat and mouse game.

“It’s sexy and funny and twisty,” says Crowe. “It deals with a lot of gender issues, such as who’s really in control and the way we expect men and women to behave.”

Later this year at the Express, gay playwright Steve Yockey and his frequent director/collaborator, out Melissa Foulger, are back for Yockey’s family drama “Pluto.” The two teamed for the gay-themed “Wolves” last season.

Fresh off of his smash rendition of “Hair,” openly gay Brian Clowdus, artistic director of Serenbe Playhouse, has turned his attention to “The Sleepy Hollow Experience.” It’s a new adaptation of the story and will be staged outdoors and in stables. Before that, however, the ubiquitous Clowdus will direct the comedy “Walter Cronkite is Dead,” about two radically different women stuck at an airport together, at Aurora Theatre.

An Atlanta favorite – “Stomp” – gallops back to the ATL and the Fox Theatre later this month.

It is – seemingly – an eternal international per-

‘Stomp’ returns to Atlanta’s Fox Theater for a limited run Sept. 26-29. (Publicity photo)

MORE INFO: “Trash” Through Sept. 28 Onstage Atlanta www.processtheatre.com

“Walter Cronkite is Dead” Sept. 19 – Oct. 6 Aurora Theatre www.auroratheatre.com

“The Sleepy Hollow Experience” Oct. 10 - 31 Serenbe Playhouse www.serenbeplayhouse.com

“Harmony” Through Oct. 6 Alliance Theatre www.alliancetheatre.com

“Choir Boy” Sept. 20 – Oct. 13 Alliance Theatre www.alliancetheatre.org

“Pluto” Oct. 30 – Nov. 24 Actor’s Express www.actorsexpress.com

“Venus in Fur” Through Oct. 6 Actor’s Express www.actorsexpress.com

“Stomp” Sept. 26 – 29 Fox Theatre www.foxtheatre.org

“Ghost” Nov. 5 -10 Fox Theatre www.broadwayacrossamerica.com

“Spunk” Sept. 17 – Oct. 13 14th Street Playhouse www.truecolorstheatre.org

“The Navigator” Sept. 26 – Oct.r 13 Goat Farm Arts Center www.7stages.org

“The Santaland Diaries” Nov. 22 – Dec. 29 Horizon Theatre www.horizontheatre.com

cussion sensation that finds itself here every few years or so, usually with a gay or lesbian cast member. This year, gay actor Carlos Thomas is part of the banging ensemble. Also at the Fox Theatre is Broadway Across America’s “Ghost,” a musical based on the Demi Moore-Patrick Swayze film. It didn’t knock anyone’s socks off on Broadway but we’re curious to see the character of Oda Mae Brown.

A production with real potential is True Colors’ “Spunk,” which involves a trio of stories by Zora Neale Hurston dealing with love, revenge, and redemption. It’s adapted by the legendary (and gay) George C. Wolfe.

A slew of other shows are running or about to begin. The Process Theatre’s “Trash” – by gay Johnny Drago – has a gay character and DeWayne Morgan in drag, while 7 Stages’ “The Navigator” – staged at the Goat Farm – promises an interactive adventure through time to save the future.

Gay director David Crowe’s just-opened ‘Venus in Fur’ at Actor’s Express is a two-person play dealing with sex and power. (Publicity photo)

And it just wouldn’t be Christmas in Atlanta without Horizon’s “The Santaland Diaries.” Gay actor Harold Leaver again will don the elf suit for the seasonal comedy, a merry, snarky tale taken from David Sedaris’ “Holidays on Ice” that has become the perfect counter-programming to the syrupy “Christmas Carols” around.

A very contemporary coming of age story from a new American master playwright.

“Vivid, magnetic and moving.”

—The New York Times

“Believe the buzz! Choir Boy sings with smarts and heart.”

—Variety

By Tarell Alvin McCraney, 2008 Alliance/Kendeda National Graduate Playwriting Competition Winner for In the Red and Brown Water Directed by Trip Cullman

September 20–October 13 Tickets @ 404.733.5000 alliancetheatre.org/choirboy Groups 404.733.4690

Series on the Hertz Stage

12 | GA VOICE

FALL PREVIEW

09.13.13

www.theGAVoice.com

FILM BY STEVE WARREN

Fall promises plenty of LGBT film fare Lots of queer cinema, plus popular LGBTfriendly actors, on the big screen this season Films about French lesbians, gay historical figures and HIV med smugglers are high on our movie list for fall, but a big part of the buzz is what’s shaping up as quite likely the fiercest Best Actress race ever.

Let’s assume Oprah Winfrey will run in the supporting category for “Lee Daniels’ the Butler” and Harvey Weinstein will find a diplomatic solution to the co-lead status of Meryl Streep and Julia Roberts in “August: Osage County.” That still leaves at least one of the latter pair against Brie Larson (“Short Term 12”) in the indie film category or Adèle Exarchopoulos (“Blue Is the Warmest Color”) in the token foreign-language slot, against the potential competition of perennials Judi Dench (“Philomena”), Sandra Bullock (“Gravity”), Kate Winslet (“Labor Day”) and Emma Thompson (“Saving Mr. Banks”).

Even if a couple of these don’t live up to expectations, the pickins are not as slim as most of the actresses involved.

As usual, Out on Film is the highlight of the queer fall movie season, but more on that next issue. Here are some theatrical releases to watch out for, with release dates always subject to change:  “Four” (Sept. 13) – On the Fourth of July a closeted father (Wendell Pierce) hooks up with a young man (Emory Cohen) while his

Opening Sept. 13: Wendell Pierce (right) plays a closeted father who hooks up with a young gay man in ‘Four.’ (Photo by Seung Lee)

neglected daughter is out with a faded basketball star, in a drama adapted by director Joshua Sanchez from a play by Christopher Shinn.  “Don Jon” (Sept. 27) – Nothing gay that we know of, but Joseph Gordon-Levitt wrote, directed and stars as a man whose obsession with Internet porn has him doing so much hand-iwork, Scarlett Johansson isn’t sure she can compete.  Out on Film (Oct. 3-10, Landmark Midtown Art Cinemas except opening night at the Rush Center) – At 26 Atlanta’s annual LGBT film festival is older than many of its attendees!

There are almost 50 film programs this year.

We’ll have extensive coverage next issue but you can get advance information (and tickets) at http://www.outonfilm.org.  “Machete Kills” (Oct. 11) – The original was a campfest and the sequel looks even hootier, with Lady Gaga joining Danny Trejo and an all-star cast. Expect more hilarious cartoon violence and an audience competition to see who can cheer loudest when (if?) villain Mel Gibson is killed.  “Carrie” (Oct. 18) – Oh God, another remake! But with lesbian director Kimberly Peirce (“Boys Don’t Cry”) guiding Chlöe Grace Moretz, who’s kick-ass in anything, and Julianne Moore (ditto), it should be worth a look.

Wear a prom dress to the premiere.  “Blue Is the Warmest Color” (Nov. 1) – This three-hour love story spans several years in the romance of a 15-year-old lesbian (Adèle Exarchopoulos) and an older woman (Léa Seydoux). The novel it’s based on isn’t the only thing that’s graphic; numerous explicit sex scenes earned it an NC-17 rating, while the film itself swept the awards (picture, director, actresses) at Cannes this year.  “Ender’s Game” (Nov. 1) – Most of the publicity around this sci-fi adaptation has been negative because Orson Scott Card, who wrote the 1985 novel, has been shooting off his mouth against marriage equality and generally standing to the right of the Tea Party. There have been calls to boycott the film, since Card presumably stands to make a bundle from it.  “Thor: The Dark World” (Nov. 8) - Beefcake alert! Chris Hemsworth returns as Marvel’s muscular superhero.  “Kill Your Darlings” (Nov. 15) – Daniel Radcliffe plays gay beat poet Allen Ginsberg (recently portrayed by James Franco in “Howl” and Tom Sturridge in “On the Road”) in a trueish story of a murder that occurred during his

Opening Nov. 15: Daniel Radcliffe plays Allen Ginsberg and Jack Huston is Jack Kerouac in ‘Kill Your Darlings.’

(Publicity photo)

student days at Columbia; with Dane DeHaan as a crush to possibly kill for.  “Black Nativity” (Nov. 27) – Considering the contentious history of the LGBT community vs. African American churches, we might be nervous about this musical; but a lot has changed in the half-century-plus it’s taken to reach the screen and this is a contemporary adaptation. The original play was written by presumed-gay poet Langston Hughes and the cast includes Angela Bassett, Jennifer Hudson and Mary J. Blige. Hopefully some hallelujahs will be in order.  “The Snow Queen” (Nov. 27) – Disney’s animated musical version of a Hans Christian Andersen fairy tale stars the voices of Idina Menzel in the title role and Kristen Bell as her goofy sister. Sounds like some kids will get their first taste of winter camp.  “Dallas Buyers Club” (Dec. 6) – Matthew McConaughey lost nearly 50 pounds to play a straight, HIV-infected Texan who in 1986 used his drug-smuggling skills to import meds that weren’t yet legal in the U.S. Jared Leto co-stars as a transgendered woman.  “Tyler Perry’s A Madea Christmas” (Dec. 13) – Sorry Ru, but Madea is America’s favorite drag queen, even if we’re not sure about the man who created and plays her.

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Knights, ladies & more Sir Elton John, Lady Gaga top fall music releases

By LAURA DOUGLAS-BROWN

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Arena brining P!NK on Dec. 14 and Justin Timberlake on Dec. 17.

GIRLS WITH GUITARS

Autumn’s concert schedule proves local music fans continue to benefit from the split between Knighted by Queen Elizabeth beloved Decatur music venue II and beloved by queens everyEddie’s Attic and its founder, Edwhere, Sir Elton John leads this die Owen, who now offers Eddie fall’s way-gay music lineup, Owen Presents at the Red Clay releasing a new album Sept. 24 Theatre in Duluth. and performing in Atlanta Nov. Top upcoming shows of LGBT 16. interest at Eddie’s Attic include “The Diving Board,” featurAntigone Rising and A Fragile ing the single “Home Again,” is Tomorrow (Sept. 27), Hannah Sir Elton’s 30th studio album. It Thomas (Oct. 17), Roxie Watson comes just three weeks before (Nov. 16), Sonia Leigh (Nov. 26-27) the season’s other most-awaited and Kristy Lee (Dec. 14). release for LGBT fans: Lady GaLGBT music lovers should Sir Elton John performs Nov. 16 pack Red Clay Theatre for Disga’s “ARTPOP,” due out Oct. 11.

Sir Elton and Lady Gaga in Atlanta after releasing his new appear Fear (Sept. 26), Cheryl aren’t the only pop divas of fall. album Sept. 24. (Publicity photo Wheeler (Nov. 10) and an epic Look out for new albums from via Facebook) night with Caroline Aiken, MiCher (“Closer to the Truth,” Sept. chelle Malone, Dede Vogt and 24) and Katy Perry (“Prism,” Oct. 27). If you dare to Janet McLaughlin (Nov. 30). listen after her VMA performance, Miley Cyrus In addition, fans of the “girls with guitars” releases “The Bangerz” Oct. 8. genre will enjoy Tegan & Sara at Music MidHuge fall concerts include Aaron’s Amphithetown (Sept. 20-21), Ani Difranco at Variety Playatre hosting Maroon 5 & Kelly Clarkson on Sept. house (Sept. 25) and Patti Griffin at Buckhead 16 and John Mayer on Sept. 27, as well as Philips Theatre (Oct. 18).

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FALL PREVIEW

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FALL CONCERTS SEPTEMBER 9/13: Michelle Malone @ Red Light Cafe 9/14: Pet Shop Boys @ Atlanta Symphony Hall 9/15: Engelbert Humperdinck @ Cobb Energy Centre 9/15: Cowboy Envy @ Eddie’s Attic 9/16: Maroon 5 & Kelly Clarkson @ Aaron’s Amphitheatre 9/19: Miranda Lambert @ Aaron’s Amphitheatre 9/20: Caroline Aiken & CopiousJones @ Red Clay Theatre 9/20-21: Midtown Music Festival @ Piedmont Park 9/25: Ani Difranco @ Variety Playhouse 9/26: Disappear Fear @ Red Clay Theatre 9/27: Antigone Rising & A Fragile Tomorrow @ Eddie’s Attic 9/27: Richard Bicknell @ Eddie’s Attic 9/27: John Mayer @ Aaron’s Amphitheatre 9/27: Lionel Richie @ Chastain Park 9/28: Martina McBride @ Chastain Park OCTOBER 10/01: Blondie

@ Buckhead Theatre 10/02: Earth, Wind & Fire @ Fox Theatre 10/03: Edwin McCain @ Center Stage 10/04: Aimee Mann @ Variety Playhouse 10/05: Marshall Chapman @ Red Clay Theatre 10/08: fun @ Verizon Amphitheatre 10/09: Sarah Brightman @ Fox Theatre 10/12: Michelle Malone, Jen Foster & Patrice Pike @ Eddie’s Attic 10/13: Dwight Yoakam @ Buckhead Theatre 10/17: Hannah Thomas @ Eddie’s Attic 10/18: Patti Griffin @ Buckhead Theatre 10/18: India.Arie @ Cobb Energy Centre 10/19: Rod Stewart @ Philips Arena 10/24: Otep @ Masquerade 10/25: Paula Cole @ Red Clay Theatre 10/25: Matt Nathanson & Joshua Radin @ Center Stage 10/26: Selena Gomez

@ Philips Arena NOVEMBER 11/01: John Legend @ Fox Theatre 11/10: Cheryl Wheeler @ Red Clay Theatre 11/10: Lisa Marie Presley @ Eddie’s Attic 11/16: Roxie Watson @ Eddie’s Attic 11/16: Elton John @ Philips Arena 11/26: Sonia Leigh @ Eddie’s Attic 11/26: Janelle Monae @ The Tabernacle 11/27: Stevens Layne & Sonia Leigh @ Eddie’s Attic 11/30: Shawn Mullins @ Variety Playhouse 11/30: Caroline Aiken, Michelle Malone, Dede Vogt & Janet McLaughlin @ Red Clay Theatre DECEMBER 12/01: Kristian Bush @ Eddie’s Attic 12/02: Dave Koz @ Cobb Energy Centre 12/08: Dar Williams @ Red Clay Theatre 12/14: Kristy Lee @ Eddie’s Attic 12/14: P!NK @ Philips Arena 12/17: Justin Timberlake @ Philips Arena

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09.13.13

GA VOICE | 15

Gay incumbents draw opposition

By DYANA BAGBY Campaigns are starting to heat up for the Nov. 5 election and at least two gay incumbents have drawn challengers in their races for reelection.

Atlanta City Councilmember Alex Wan is serving his first term representing the heavily gay District 6 post after being sworn into office in 2010. When elected he became the first openly gay man, as well as the first Asian-American, to serve on the council.

He’s drawn two challengers, who filed right before the Aug. 30 qualifying deadline — Tracey Austin, a mother who is active in the Morningside elementary school programs; and Mike Boyle, neighborhood activist and a stay-at-home dad who is currently seeking with the help of investors to find a small business to purchase and operate on his own.

In Doraville, the first known gay Republican elected to office in Georgia, Brian Bates, faces opposition from Dawn O’Connor, who retired after a 28-year career working for the Centers for Disease Control & Prevention as a community liaison in hazardous waste sites.

Bates was first elected in 2007 to fill the unexpired term of a council member who resigned to run for mayor. In 2009, Bates was elected to his first four-year term after handily defeating Tom Hart.

In the struggling East Point City Council, gay councilmember Lance Rhodes is not up for reelection. On a controversial note, a recent audit of the city showed no accounting for $200 million the city spent in the past 12 years. The city continues to attract a large gay population: East Point is home of the popular East Point Possums show, a drag show that raises funds for LGBT organizations.

In Pine Lake, the smallest city in DeKalb County, openly lesbian Mayor Kathie deNobriga also is not up for re-election. However, lesbian councilmember Melanie Hammett is not seeking re-election, according to filings with city administrators.

Kecia Cunningham of the Decatur City Commission is also not up for re-election.

ATLANTA CITY COUNCIL DISTRICT 6 RACE

Alex Wan’s first term in office has been marked by extreme highs and lows among LGBT constituents and residents. Late last year, he successfully pushed through a resolution supported unanimously by other council members for the City Council to proclaim support for marriage equality.

That resolution eventually landed on Mayor Kasim Reed’s desk. The mayor signed it and he finally came out publicly himself in support of marriage equality after acknowledging his struggle over the issue.

This year, Wan worked hard to rid Cheshire

Alex Wan, Brian Bates face challengers in Nov. 5 election

Alex Wan, seeking a second term as the District 6 representative on the Atlanta City Council, faces opposition from firsttime candidates Tracey Austin and Mike Boyle. (Courtesy photos)

Wan [says] he continues to represent the community in all aspects — from sponsoring the council resolution to support marriage equality and attending Atlanta Pride each year . . .

Bridge Road of adult businesses, several popular with LGBT people, and he was accused of betraying his own community. Wan eventually, sort of, apologized after his proposal was defeated in a council vote. He said he never intended to anger the LGBT community and that he was “sorry if folks feel my targeting the adult businesses has undone all of the community work that I have done for the overall LGBT movement.”

In his bid for another term, Wan points to the city’s fiscal restraint that led to its cash reserve growing from $7 million to $130 million.

Wan also appealed to District 6’s LGBT voters, saying he continues to represent the community in all aspects — from sponsoring the council resolution to support marriage equality and attending Atlanta Pride each year, to sponsoring another resolution approved by council that supports a federal bill to unite LGBT foreignAmerican couples.

“I have been and will continue to be a strong, vocal and positive advocate for LGBT issues. I have demonstrated in the four years as an At-

lanta City Council member that I can deliver on matters that are important to the LGBT community,” Wan said.

Tracey Austin, a business and marketing consultant and mom, said she is running for the District 6 seat because she wants to make her community safer for children. This includes safer streets, more green spaces and recreational facilities, she said.

“I feel a strong sense of responsibility to serve my neighbors, children and parents, families and young professionals in District 6,” she said.

Austin acknowledges she has yet to advocate for LGBT people but looks forward to working toward human and civil rights if elected.

“I am particularly passionate about the protections of LGBT youth ensuring that schools are including the safety of LGBT youth in the conversation and policies of school safety,” she said.

She is a supporter of marriage equality and said she would advocate for it nationally as well as in Georgia.

At City Hall, Austin said she would work to

have the Atlanta mayor and council appoint an “Administrator for Equal Opportunities and Rights” as well as work toward the formation of an LGBT Employees and Allies Network. From this network, she said, referrals would be made of qualified people for board and commissions.

Mike Boyle said he has nothing against Wan personally, and believes his work with the homeless and those with HIV/AIDS is commendable, but believes he could provide stronger leadership.

“As far as his role as a public servant, however, I would have wished for stronger leadership and a stronger vision,” Boyle said. He declined to provide examples of where Wan could have showed stronger leadership, saying his campaign was just kicking off and more was to come.

Boyle is a supporter of marriage equality and said he was also an outspoken advocate for then U.S. Army Private Bradley Channing, now Chelsea Manning, who was convicted of leaking classified military information to Wikileakes.

Manning stated publicly after her conviction she is transgender.

“I supported financially and educated many people about her mistreatment during the pretrial detainment, which amounted to torture under Geneva Convention,” Boyle said.

DORAVILLE CITY COUNCIL RACE

When Brian Bates took office in 2007, the city already had a domestic partner policy in place. In 2008, the council, under Bates’ leadership, added “sexual preference” — to include gay men and lesbians — in the city’s employee non-discrimination policy. In 2009, the policy was changed to add sexual orientation and also gender identity.

The city has also been focused on infrastructure and economic development including the hiring of a city manager.

“With many of our infrastructure items more stable and professional leadership at city hall, we can now focus on policy and setting an agenda and staff priorities that will help the city grow and continue to move forward, such as economic development, developmental standards, marketing and communication, and improving the overall aesthetics of the community,” he said.

As a retired CDC employee, O’Connor said she is tired of seeing abandoned buildings on Buford Highway and she has the time to put into making Doraville a better community for her grandchildren and future generations.

“I listen to our residents, I go to our council meetings, but yet nothing seems to get done,” she said. “I think I can make a difference. I’m willing to put the time in it.”

She has nothing against Bates, she said. “It’s not that I don’t think he hasn’t done a good job, but I’m willing to put all the time necessary into it.”

She also supports marriage equality.

16 | GA VOICE

09.13.13

NEWS

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Organization looking for candidate versed in Affordable Care Act

numbers are, especially among men who have sex with men,” Woolard said. “Oftentimes we speak to [the] easiest group and that’s those right in front of us. We need to reach out to more communities not aware of HIV/AIDS.” Chip Newton, secretary to the board of directors and CEO search committee chair, said

By DYANA BAGBY AID Atlanta’s staff is undergoing training to better help clients come Oct. 1 so they know After a year of strategic planning for the their options and who might be eligible for inupcoming implementation of the Affordable surance exchanges.

Care Act, AID Atlanta is ready to move on to its Unfortunately, because Gov. Nathan Deal next stage of fulfilling its mission of serving refused to expand the Medicaid program that some 50,000 people each year on a $7.6 mil- helps poor people along with the implementalion budget. tion of the Affordable Care Act, or Obamacare, A committee is in place and a national and there is a strong possibility of people “slipping local search is underway to hire a permanent through the cracks” and not receiving needed CEO who has a passion for heading up an or- services to stay healthy, Newton said. ganization that serves people with HIV/AIDS “We’re also looking at who we can bill that and is also knowledgeable about the health can replace funds that may be drying up,” care system and the implications of what will Newton said. “This sort of strategic initiative happen when the Affordable Care Act goes into is going to be transformative and we need a effect Oct. 1.

CEO who can be ready from the start,” he said.

“I came on at the tail end of last year with Case management at AID Atlanta’s clinic the board asking me to extend the strategic is a definite success story, said Mark Binder, plan and work with the board board chair of AID Atlanta. Of to identify the most flexible those who remain in care, 90 model that can help us as percent achieve a zero viral we enter the new world of load, which is not only good the Affordable Care Act,” said for the client but also means Cathy Woolard, who joined it is nearly impossible for the AID Atlanta as its interim CEO client to transmit the virus in November. She is not seekto anyone else. AID Atlanta ing the full-time position, she wants to stay at the percentsaid, but is assisting in the age and even improve on the search. score, he said, and having a The board did not want to leader in place dedicated to rush into hiring a traditional that is imperative. executive director, but instead Newton said the new CEO wanted to look at the strucmust also possess strong AID Atlanta’s interim CEO Cathy ture of the organization and Woolard is helping in the search for leadership and community its funding more closely. They a full-time CEO. (File photo) building skills. Woolard indecided to commit to placing dicated that whoever is sea higher priority and more lected to lead AID Atlanta into resources on advocacy and communications, its next phase must have a strong grasp of the Woolard explained medical and insurance environment.

“The organization is extremely lean.

While the Affordable Care Act can be helpWe’ve not been where we want on advocacy,” ful to those with HIV/AIDS because it elimiWoolard said. nates the pre-existing condition and provides Such advocacy includes more lobbying for insurance to everyone, the fact that Medicaid funding at the state and federal level as well as is not extended in Georgia means there will working to influence policy decisions. be a gap of people not immediately receiving Woolard, a lobbyist for Georgia Equal- services. For those with HIV/AIDS, not receivity and Planned Parenthood, said Georgia’s ing medication every day can lead to the virus ranking as No. 6 in the nation with the most growing stronger, people becoming sicker and HIV/AIDS cases, according to the Centers for a higher risk of transmission.

Disease Control & Prevention, means much “There will be a lot of turmoil for people. more attention needs to be given to the issue, No one really knows how this is going to play especially by state lawmakers. Gay and bisex- out,” Woolard said. “This transition piece is goual men – especially in the African American ing to be challenging. All of our programs have community, are the hardest both in Georgia been cut because of the sequestration and the and across the nation, according to the CDC. policy [ACA] is great, but implementation is go“People have no idea how desperate the ing to be really challenging.”

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NEWS

EVENT Photos by Dyana Bagby BLACK GAY PRIDE DRAWS THOUSANDS

Tens of thousands of people descended on Atlanta over Labor Day weekend for the annual Black Gay Pride celebration. Festivities included dozens of parties at local clubs, as well as In the Life Atlanta, the nonproďŹ t Black Gay Pride organizer, producing events aimed to empower and educate.

The highlight of the weekend was the second annual Pure Heat Community Festival in Piedmont Park. Produced by Traxx Girls and the Vision Community Foundation, the fest had food, market and nonproďŹ t vendors; a carnival for children; and plenty of live entertainment. Singer/actress Brandy also received a humanitarian award.

Find full photo albums from this event online @ www.thegavoice.com

09.13.13

GA VOICE | 17

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NEW GA. DEMOCRATIC PARTY CHAIR NOW BACKS GAY MARRIAGE DuBose Porter, former Speaker of the House of the Georgia General Assembly, was elected Aug. 31 to lead the Democratic Party of Georgia. Porter told GA Voice he has evolved on marriage equality and is putting his anti-gay past — including votDubose Porter ing for the state (Official photo) constitutional ban on gay marriage — behind him.

“My opinion on marriage equality has evolved like most everyone else’s in the country. People need the right to marry who they love. Period,” Porter said in a statement issued in response to questions from GA Voice.

“We all draw from our own life experiences to get there. And I’m there. I look forward to the day that all Georgians are treated equally under the law,” Porter said.

Jim Taflinger, chair of the Democratic Party of Georgia’s LGBT Caucus, said in a statement the election of Porter pointed to a party dedicated to fighting for equality for LGBT people.

“For the first time in the history of the Democratic Party of Georgia, all three candidates for Party Chairperson endorsed marriage equality,” Taflinger said.

In 2010, Porter was one of a handful of Democrats running for governor, and his history on LGBT equality was hardly something to brag about. At that time he was known for being a member of the Georgia General Assembly who voted twice in favor of the state constitutional amendment to ban gay marriage; he served as Speaker Pro Tempore of the House during the debate.

Porter also voted for a bill sponsored by Rep. Earl Ehrhart (R-Powder Springs) to prevent cities from requiring private businesses to offer domestic partner benefits to be eligible for city contracts.

MARRIED SAME-SEX COUPLES ELIGIBLE FOR VETERANS BENEFITS

In a letter to U.S. Rep. John Boehner (ROhio) dated Sept. 4, Attorney General Eric Holder informed the Republican House Speaker that President Obama’s administration will extend veterans benefits for married same-sex couples.

This comes in the wake of the Supreme Court’s June 26 ruling that struck down a key portion of the Defense of Marriage Act, and the Internal Revenue Service’s Aug. 29 decision to allow same-sex married couples to file federal taxes together and share Medi-

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NEWSIN BRIEF Top Ga. Democrat says ‘I do,’ spouse benefits for gay veterans, and more READ MORE ON

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care benefits.

Based on the court ruling, the administration will no longer enforce policies that restrict veteran benefits to legally married opposite-sex couples.

“Continued enforcement would likely have a tangible U.S. Attorney General Eric adverse effect Holder (Official photo) on the families of veterans, and in some circumstances, active-duty service members and reservists, with respect to survival, health care, home loan and other benefits,” Holder stated.

President Obama, Holder and other LGBT-supportive members of the president’s administration have seized on the DOMA overturn to provide previously unobtainable benefits for married same-sex couples throughout the country.

GAY RABBI APPOINTED TO ATLANTA HUMAN RELATIONS COMMISSION

Congregation Bet Haverim’s Rabbi Josh Lesser has been appointed to the city of Atlanta’s Human Relations Commission.

A leading figure in the Atlanta LGBT community, Lesser has served as rabbi at Congregation Bet Haverim since 1999. He was appointed by District 2 City Councilmember Kwanza Hall.

“When Councilman Hall was looking for new members, I was approached by Fulton County Commissioner Joan Garner,” Lesser said. “I have a long-standing connection with the city’s LGBT community and she

thought I would be a good fit.”

Founded in 2000, the Atlanta Human Relations Commission is charged with enforcing the city’s non-discrimination ordinance, which prohibits bias in a variety of categories, including sexual orientation, and covers employment, housing and public accommodations.

Since sexual orientation discrimination is not banned under state or federal law, the

09.13.13

GA VOICE | 19

commission is particularly important to gay Atlanta residents as one of the few available venues to seek justice.

It met regularly until 2010, but was largely dormant until this past year.

ATLANTA PRIDE ANNOUNCES MORE ENTERTAINERS FOR OCTOBER FEST

“All American Boy” Steve Grand joins Atlanta Pride’s lineup for the Coca-Cola stage next month. Grand’s YouTube video for his country song “All American Boy,” about a gay man who mistakenly believes a straight man is interested in him, became an instant internet sensation.

Atlanta Pride is slated for Oct. 12-13 in Piedmont Park. Also performing on the CocaCola stage will be Bonnie McKee, the songwriter on such hits as Katy Perry’s “California Gurls” and “Teenage Dream.” She’s also written for such gay faves as Christina Aguilera, Britney Spears and Carly Rae Jepson.

“With the addition of these two artists, we can say truly say that we have something for everyone to enjoy, no matter what your musical tastes may be,” said Atlanta Pride Committee Executive Director Buck Cooke in a prepared statement. “We are so proud of this year’s talent and are looking forward to sharing this line up of incredibly gifted artists with our community.”

Grand and McKee are added to a lineup that includes headliners Taylor Dayne and Sonia Leigh.

20 | GA VOICE

OPINION

09.13.13

THE GEORGIA VOICE

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EDITORIAL

Editor: David Aaron Moore dmoore@thegavoice.com

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All material in the Georgia Voice is protected by federal copyright law and may not be reproduced without the written consent of the 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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GA VOICES OUR OPINION EDITORIAL

Who says you can’t go home again?

Searching for my past and finding the community I love

By DAVID AARON MOORE I had forgotten how much I love Atlanta. After an absence of about a decade, I’ve returned to a place that has changed, but still feels like home. I spent a large amount of my younger days here — a key time for most people when they make their closest friends and allies. Reconnecting with them, and making some new friends in the short time I’ve been back, has reminded me why I always enjoyed the city so much.

A lot of the things I took for granted years ago I chose to revisit the other day.

Not since I was in my early 20s had I rode MARTA. The sound of the train pulling into the Inman Park station, that unidentifiable oily smell that permeates every stop and the presence of errant pigeons was once something I found annoying. This time, however, it all seemed kind of comfortable and almost reassuring.

Like just about every southerner I know, we all have a weakness for some oh-so-good but oh-so-bad-for-you fast food.

I know, I know. I shouldn’t, but every once in a while, I’ll allow myself to indulge. Two things Atlanta has that I had completely forgotten about but were part of my once starving writer’s diet: Krystal cheeseburgers and Zesto’s fish sandwiches. Of course, my dietary palette has decidedly matured since way back when, but both were still an enjoyable (albeit somewhat greasy) trip back in time.

I couldn’t resist paying a visit to an old loft space (it was over a wig shop called “The Soul Train”) I leased in the early 1990s on Broad Street, just a block away from the former Rich’s building. It was a fun time — I shot a film there — and my career as a writer started off in the crumbling old building where life

seemed like one big party.

There were, however, some more evocative experiences I had living there: From my second story bay of windows that stretched across the entire front of the facade, I witnessed a gathering of about 20 Klansmen from rural Georgia spark a massive backlash that resulted in scores of accidental injuries for Klan protestors trampled by their own gigantic crowd. Police cars were overturned and officers (in place to protect the small band of Klansmen, oddly enough) were pelted with rocks.

On another occasion I saw a huge contingent of LGBT activists march towards the capitol, where they enacted a “kiss-in” in protest of government response to the AIDS crisis. Atlanta police broke up the demonstration and then-Mayor Andrew Young condemned the action of the group (known as ACT UP), calling it “distasteful” and “irresponsible.” He later apologized and has since become one of our staunchest allies.

Today the building that I witnessed these historic moments from is now an Islamic Mosque.

During that period, I also saw Midtown evolve from a funky gay ghetto to a trendy upscale status symbol. As is the case in practi-

There is no longer one specific gay neighborhood and no longer a need for a gay ghetto.

Atlanta’s LGBT community has spread out across the city, and we continue to do so in political office, business and civic leadership.

David Aaron Moore (Photo by Adam Kurland)

cally every major city across the country, the LGBT community had more-or-less claimed the once crumbling inner-city neighborhood as their own, fixed it up and made it look pretty and cool. So cool, in fact, many LGBT residents were priced right out of the area they helped reinvigorate.

Leading up to the 1996 Olympic Games, what was once a thriving gay strip of clubs and businesses vanished and many of the LGBT residents found more affordable places to live: Decatur, Candler Park, Ormewood Park, East Atlanta, Grant Park and Kirkwood, among others. Today, even those areas are becoming increasingly gentrified and pricey, forcing the LGBT community to continue to expand along with the city itself.

Even though the loss of a unified community in one area can be perceived as negative, I’d say that our expansion is a good thing.

There is no longer one specific gay neighborhood and no longer a need for a gay ghetto.

Atlanta’s LGBT community has spread out across the city, and we continue to do so in political office, business and civic leadership.

Indeed – it is an exciting time to be in Atlanta.

“Why you leave the Big A?” The smiling cashier at Krystal had asked me while passing me my order. “Don’t leave the A again, you hear me?”

“I won’t,” I told her. “I’m back for good. I’m home again.”

I went in search of my past. I found a lot of it – but I also discovered our future as well. For Atlanta’s LGBT community, it looks bright. I’m happy to be a part of it and honored to be in a position to help further our march towards equality.

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Art on the Beltway is an ongoing exhibit of art, which continues through November 7, with live performance art and exhibits, including work by openly gay artist Gregor Turk. www.artontheeltline.org

SATURDAY, SEPT. 14 Join author Kenya Jackson from 7:30 - 9 p.m. as she discusses concepts from her self-help memoir, “Empty Space: Where is My Stuff? Navigating the Quarterlife Crisis with Wisdom and Skill” at Charis Books, www.charisbooksandmore.com Publicity photo

The third annual Athens Pride continues through Sunday, with activities planned throughout the city, http://athenspride.com/ The gay-themed film “Four” opens in the ATL with its director Joshua Sanchez and lead actor Wendell Pierce in for an evening Q and A, AMC Phipps Plaza, www.amctheatres.com/movietheatres/amc-phipps-plaza-14 Kai Lin Art presents the new exhibit Perfectly Precarious, 7 – 10 p.m., Kai Lin Art, www.kailinart.com Jennifer Daniels comes to Red Clay Theatre for a new record release, with doors opening at 7 p.m. and the show starting at 8 p.m., www.eddieowenpresents.com Michelle Malone returns to the Red Light Café for an intimate performance, beginning at 8 p.m., http://redlightcafe.com/

SUNDAY, SEPT. 15

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Cowboy Envy brings their country songs to Eddie’s Attic, beginning at 5 p.m., www.eddiesattic.com

Get your hookah on at the new Hookah Lounge, debuting tonight, 8 p.m. at LeBuzz, www.thenewlebuzz.com DJ Gustavo Scorpio comes to the Heretic for the Ready 4 Hope Kickoff Party, 10 p.m. at the Heretic, www.hereticatlanta.com Barry Brandon celebrates the Virgo edition of his Paparazzi parties, 10 p.m. – 3 a.m., 10th and Piedmont, www.communitashospitality. com/10th-and-piedmont/ Friday is Ladies Night at Blake’s upstairs, with special guest DJ Liz Owen, beginning at 10 p.m., www.blakesontheparkatlanta.com

SATURDAY, SEPT. 14 WEDNESDAY, SEPT. 18 Wednesday nights are always a celebration with “Hump Night” and your hostess the legendary diva Regina Simms. Don’t miss the fun and frolic as Regina keeps you laughing while the bartenders keep pouring. www.friendsonponce-atl.com

A full day of activity highlights the 14th annual Savannah Pride, today at Savannah’s Forsyth Park, www.savpride.com Two new counseling groups start today: at 3:30 p.m. is “Coping With Life’s Issues,” and at 4:30 is “LGBT Today” at the First MCC Community Center, www.firstmcc.com Atlanta Pride raises funds at Flower Hour at the Garden Hood, 5 – 7 p.m.,

SATURDAY, SEPT. 14

The iconic Pet Shop Boys visit the Atlanta Symphony Hall in support of their new “Electric” album, 8 p.m., www.atlantasymphony.org Publicity photo

SOMETHING GAY EVERY DAY! Bookmark www.thegavoice.com to get your daily dose of local LGBT events.

www.atlantapride.org Brewing for Equality is an opportunity to catch up on marriage equality news and have some coffee at the same time, 7:30 – 9:30 p.m. at Starbucks (876 Peachtree Street) “Peachtree Battle” is reportedly the longest running comedy in Atlanta history. It’s a comedic look at what happens when the son of one of Atlanta’s high society families announces his engagement to a Hooter’s Girl. The cast includes a heavy drinkin’ grandmother, a cheating husband, a gay son, and an illegal immigrant maid. One night only. Ansley Park Playhouse, www. ansleyparkplayhouse.com

DJ Rodolfo Bravat spins at 10 p.m. at Jungle, www.jungleatl.com GURLfrandz, the new Hollywood Babylon show, is a new drag event featuring the likes of Violet Chachki, Kryean Kally, Lavonia Elberton, 10:30 p.m. at Mary’s, www.marysatlanta.com

SUNDAY, SEPT. 15

Psychotherapist Debonee Morgan talks about “Restarting the Conversation” and PFLAG Support groups, 2:30 – 5 p.m. at St. Mark United Methodist Church, www.stmarkumc.org/

The Atlanta Eagle hosts the Clipper Party for Charity, with haircuts and massage, benefitting Lost –N-Found, 8 p.m., www.atlantaeagle.com

Cowboy Envy brings their country songs to Eddie’s Attic, beginning at 5 p.m., www.eddiesattic.com

Romeo Lee hosts the Lee Family and Friends/ Get Lucky show at 9 p.m. at My Sister’s Room, www.mysistersroom.com

The Ready for Hope closing party tea dance winds down a busy weekend from 6 p.m. – 12 a.m., Jungle, www.jungleatl.com

DJ and Producer Barry Huffine visits from Florida for the Southern Bears Bear bash, 10 p.m. at the Atlanta Eagle, www.atlantaeagle.com

The Legendary Engelbert Humperdinck comes to town to croon his greatest hits, 7 p.m. at Cobb Energy Centre, www.cobbenergycenter. com

CALENDAR

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MONDAY, SEPT. 16

Legendary R&B Diva Aretha Franklin sings her heart out with such hits as “Freeway of Love,” “RESPECT” and “Til You Come Back To Me,” among others, as she takes to the stage of Atlanta’s most historic venue. 8 p.m. Fox Theater. www.arethafranklin.net The Atlanta Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence hosts the Devil Wears Red/Atlanta Red Dress Party, benefitting the MISTER Center, from 9 p.m. – 3 a.m. at Jungle, www.jungleatl.com

Host Ken presents “Let’s Make a Deal” every Tuesday at Friends on Ponce, beginning at 6 p.m., http://www.friendsonponce-atl.com/

Xion presents DBL Play 1st Party with DJ Joe Gauthreaux, 10 p.m. at the Heretic, www.atlantaheretic.com

Up Close at Mixx presents vocalist Eddie Gammill, 8 p.m. at Mixx, www.mixxatlanta.com

Sinful Saturdays at LeBuzz features Destiny Brooks, Heather Daniels and more, 11 p.m., LeBuzz, www.thenewlebuzz.com

WEDNESDAY, SEPT. 18

POST-MODern presents: OFFyerHEAD (Britpop + Indie in the EAV), with special guest DJ Todd Rivera spinning classic Britpop & Indie tracks, 9 p.m. at Marys, www.marysatlanta.com

THURSDAY, SEPT. 19

le,

Singer/songwriter/feminist icon Ani Difranco visits Variety Playhouse tonight at 8 p.m., www.varietyplayhouse.com Publicity photo

SAGE Atlanta hosts a Cards and Social hour, followed by a general meeting, at 10 a.m. at the Phillip Rush Center, www.rushcenteratl.org

The gay-themed “Choir Boy” begins previews at 8 p.m. at the Alliance Theatre, www.alliancetheatre.org

AEN (Atlanta Executive Network ) presents its third Thursday Mix and Mingle, 6:30 p.m., Rooftop 866, www.rooftop866atlanta.com

Drag star Alaska Thunderfuck and DJ King Atlas from Haus of Glitz joins The Other Show XXXL at 9:30 p.m. at Jungle, www.jungleatlanta.com

Miranda Lambert brings her Locked and Reloaded tour to Aaron’s Amphitheatre tonight at 7 p.m., www.livenation.com

n of Grab your boots for Country Music Night at ber- Woofs, 7 p.m. at Woofs, www.woofsatlanta.com

nd Mark

WEDNESDAY, SEPT. 25

Charis and Cliterati pair up to present an inviting and fierce open mic & reading series on the 3rd Thursday of every month, hosted by the anarchic spoken word team of Karen G and Theresa Davis, 7:30 p.m., Charis, www.charisbooksandmore.com

FRIDAY, SEPT. 20

Out performers Tegan and Sara are among the Ed- many acts at this weekend’s Midtown Music Festival at Piedmont Park www.musicmidtown.com/

ance The LGBT themed “Gun Hill Road” screens as part of the Third Friday film series, 7 p.m. at the 2 First Existentialist Congregation, www.firstexistentialist.org

.m. atCaroline Aiken and Copious Jones team at nter. Red Clay Theatre, 7:30 p.m., www.eddieowenpresents.com

Come out and join Tank, Mr Atlanta Eagle, and Lizzy, Ms. Atlanta Eagle, for the September bar night and help send Tank off to compete at the American Brotherhood Weekend for American Leatherboy, 10 p.m. at Atlanta Eagle, www.atlantaeagle.com The birthday edition of Sean Mac’s FUR Friday promises hairy chests galore, 10 p.m. – 3 a.m at the Heretic, www.hereticatlanta.com

SATURDAY, SEPT. 21

The fourth annual South Georgia Pride takes place all day today at John W Saunders Park in Valdosta, GA, www.southgapride.com/SGP/Welcome.html AEN hosts a casual Saturday networking brunch, 10:30 a.m. – 12 p.m., Einsteins, www.einsteinsatlanta.com Join the Armorettes for the Armorette Follies to benefit H.E.R.O. for Children. H.E.R.O. for Children is a non-profit dedicated to improving the quality of life for children infected with and affected by HIV/AIDS, 8 – 10 p.m., Heretic, www.hereticatlanta.com

SUNDAY, SEPT. 22

Lips Atlanta’s first charity event features drag great Charlie Brown and Phoenix, benefitting Joining Hearts, 6 – 9 p.m., Lips Atlanta, www.LipsUSA.com

FRIDAY, SEPT. 27

Folk rock great Richard Bicknell performs at 9:30 p.m. at Eddie’s Attic, www.eddiesattic.com

MONDAY, SEPT. 23

Blue Monday Karaoke kicks off at 11:30 p.m. with Angelica D’Paige at Burkhart’s, www.burkharts.com Knomie Moore hosts Jukebox Drag at 8 p.m. each Monday at the Heretic. www.hereticatlanta.com Wild Cherry Sucret hosts Trivia and Family Feud at Blake’s beginning at 9 p.m. www.blakesontheparkatlanta.com

TUESDAY, SEPT. 24

Fourth Tuesday women’s social networking group meets for dinner, 6 – 10 p.m., TBD location, http://thehealthinitiative.org Charis is presenting the “Our Poembody Selves: Everyday Liberation Creativity Sessions” workshop series starting tonight, with Vanessa Huang. For more information, contact Charis, www.charisbooksandmore.com Rehearse your “Chicago” songs for Showtunes at Amsterdam Atlanta at 9 p.m., www.amsterdamatlanta.com

WEDNESDAY, SEPT. 25

A planning meeting for the Atlanta Trans March is tonight at 6 p.m. at Charis, www.charisbooksandmore.com Enjoy five dollar tacos at Tacos, Tequila and Beer night from 6 – 11 p.m. at Amsterdam Atlanta, www.amsterdamatlanta.com

CONTINUED ON PAGE 25

FRIDAY, SEPT. 27 Edie Cheezburger and other drag personalities raise money for Atlanta Pride at the Other Show benefit, 9:30 p.m., Jungle Atlanta, www.jungleatlcom

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TUESDAY, SEPT. 17

Event spotlight Photo BagbyDesign Studio Photoby byDyana CG Creative

Maroon 5 & Kelly Clarkson team up for a night of Top 40 merriment at 7 p.m. at Aaron’s Amphitheatre, www.livenation.com

GA VOICE | 23

Photo by Dyana Bagby

Every Monday is yoga day at Sage. 10 a.m. Phillip Rush Center, www.rushcenteratl.org

Tap into your creativity and sign up for a six-week, hands-on course based upon Julia Cameron’s book “The Artist’s Way,” beginning tonight at 7 p.m., Charis Books, www.charisbooksandmore.com

09.13.13

SATURDAY, SEPT. 28 Former Atlanta mayor Shirley Franklin is a guest at CHRIS Kids’ 13th annual CHRIStal Ball event, 6 – 10 p.m. at Georgia Aquarium, www.chriskids.org

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r o l CoWorld Atlanta Freedom Bands present

COntinued FROM PAGE 23 The Cobb Energy Centre presents “A Tribute to Ella, Joe & Basie” with Janis Siegel, Kevin Mahogany and the Count Basie Orchestra at 8 p.m. www.cobbenergycentre.com

OuSrpirit, & Magic!

THURSDAY, SEPT. 26

Life,

SAGE’s social hour includes plenty of games and interaction, 10 a.m. at the Phillip Rush Center. www.rushcenteratl.org

Tickets: $30 general, $15 seniors, $10 students Free Parking Information & Tickets:

Three dollar admission and cocktails are on tap at Where the Party At?, 11 p.m. at Phase One, www.wassupnatl.com UPCOMING

FRIDAY, SEPT. 27

The Atlanta Gay and Lesbian Chamber (AGLCC) hosts its Fourth Friday event from 5:30 – 7:30 p.m. at Zocalo, www.atlantagaychamber.org Antigone Rising & A Fragile Tomorrow team up at 7 p.m. at Eddie’s Attic, www.eddiesattic.com Local boy done good John Mayer returns to the ATL tonight at 7 p.m. at Aaron’s Amphitheatre, www.livenation.com Sing “All Night Long” along with Lionel Richie tonight at 8 p.m. at Chastain Park, www.chastainseries.com/

Country headliner Martina McBride performs at 7 p.m., Chastain Park, www.chastainseries.com/

Otter Pop is a celebration of otters, wolves, silver foxes, cubs and furry subspecies of men at 10 p.m. at Marys, www.marysatlanta.com

SATURDAY, SEPT. 28 Hosted by Nicole Paige Brooks, “Legendary Children” is a group photography exhibit featuring work by Blane Bussey, Jon Dean, Blake England, Kevin O, and Matt Terrell at 7 p.m., with a drag show at 9 p.m., gallery 1562, www.gallery1526.com Wanna be the next Mr. Hideaway Bear and Cub? Come to Roy’s Hideaway Compound for the 8 p.m. competition, www.royshideaway.com Bedlam presents CirqueDeCabaret La Suite — a dance party with performance art, 10:30 p.m., Jungle Atlanta, www.jungleatl.com

SUNDAY, SEPT. 29

Join Lambda Legal supporters at the annual Atlanta Garden Party to celebrate victories for the LGBT community, with cocktails and hors d’oeuvres provided by Kitchens New Cleghorn, LLC., 3 – 6 p.m. , www.lambdalegal.org

photo by Tom Fahey

SATURDAY, SEPT. 28

Publicity photo

www.AtlantaFreedomBands.com

As part of Civil Rights movie nights, the acclaimed “Prayers for Bobby” screens from 7 – 9 p.m. at Saint Mark United Methodist Center, www.stmarkumc.org/

Disappear Fear plays tonight at 8 p.m. at Red Clay Theatre, www.eddieowenpresents.com

Saturday October 12 8 PM

Ferst Center for the Arts at Georgia Tech 349 Ferst Drive NW, Atlanta 30322

HRC Atlanta hosts a screening of Showtime’s new “Masters of Sex” series, 6:30 – 9:30 p.m., Midtown Art Cinema, www.landmarktheatres.com

The Feminist Women’s Health Center present its fall fundraiser, Unruly Night of Political Misbehavin!, a night snacks, drinks, music, live performances and a chance to learn about how to get involved in the feminist community, 7 - 9:30 p.m. The Shelter Atlanta, www.TheShelterAtl.com

Featuring the 200+ musicians of the Lesbian and Gay Band Association and the world premiere of a new work by Atlanta composer Tim Jansa

With Special Guest Host

Topher Payne Playwright and Author

Lloyd E. Russell Foundation

26 | GA VOICE

09.13.13

COLUMNISTS

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MELISSA CARTER

THAT'S WHAT SHE SAID In the doghouse How not to take your girlfriend to dinner It’s not often I’m in the doghouse with my girlfriend, Katie Jo, but lately I have attempted to make amends for a decision that was not in her best interest.

Shortly after joining the morning show at B98.5, my colleague Jeff Elliott invited us over to his new place for a homemade dinner. Days before that dinner Jeff’s girlfriend, Azil, was at the station and expressed to me how excited she was to make a traditional meal for us from her home country, South Africa. I told her I was looking forward to trying it, and Azil let me know it isn’t often she gets to make it and that the special occasion of our new show was an appropriate time to share this feast.

Then she asked me if there was anything Katie and I couldn’t eat.

This is a good time to let you know I am not my best in new situations. I was a very shy kid and even though I have outgrown that part of me for the most part, I still resort to a being a wallflower when tossed into a new environment. That beautifully opinionated Melissa doesn’t blossom until a little later. Taking this into consideration, I would not have been at all comfortable with asking Azil to change her dinner plans for any reason. But when I told her Katie didn’t like eggs, Azil blanched and explained her planned entree of Bobotie had an egg-based topping. This was the fork in the road where I took a wrong turn.

“Tell her it’s cheese.”

That was my brilliant solution. Explaining to Azil that Katie’s aversion to eggs had nothing to do with an allergy, and that no ambulance would have to be called if she ingested them, I began down a path of betrayal that would require the assistance of everyone at the dinner.

Jeff had also invited our new boss and his wife to this event, so I had to let them know as well not

Melissa Carter is also co-anchor of the morning show on B98 and a writer for Huffington Post.

She broke ground as the first out lesbian radio personality on a major station in Atlanta and is one of the few out morning show personalities in the country. Follow her on Twitter @MelissaCarter

to comment on the ingredients of the recipe. The only person I didn’t tell was Katie.

Katie is pretty set in her culinary ways, and her hate for eggs runs deep. I was raised with eggs for breakfast every day, but the only time I’m allowed to cook eggs is when Katie is out of the house. She doesn’t want to see them, taste them, hear them being cooked, smell them, and always makes some snide comment when we go out to breakfast and finds them on my plate.

So what made me think I’d get away with my lie that night at Jeff’s house I’m not sure, but I somehow assumed Katie wouldn’t catch on.

However, I didn’t take into consideration texture. Cheese and egg certainly have different textures and the dish on my plate looked just like egg, despite Azil’s attempt to include cheese in her listing of ingredients as she served us. Katie creased her brow and looked up at Azil.

“What kind of cheese is this?”

This is when I learned Azil is not a very good liar, since she turned to ME and nervously said, “A kind of ricotta?” One, I didn’t ask the question yet she was looking at me. Second, a “kind” of ricotta is like being “sorta” pregnant. There really is only one kind. That’s when Katie started pushing the Bobotie toward the side of her plate and focused only on the side items, which everyone else noticed too. After some silence she asked me if it was egg and I had no choice but to come clean, as did everyone else at the dinner.

Putting a loved one in an awkward position in front of a group of strangers is not the best strategy for a healthy relationship. And I let my timid need “not to be any trouble” get in the way of protecting Katie’s phobia of eggs, regardless of whether I understand or agree with it. Needless to say, I doubt we’ll be making plans to go to South Africa anytime soon.

COLUMNISTS

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09.13.13

GA VOICE | 27

TOPHER PAYNE

Domestically DISTURBED Child’s play Is McDonald’s supersizing gender roles?

I go to McDonald’s. I can’t say I’m proud of it, but I’m a sucker for cheap and convenient, which was a real problem back when I was dating. I’m fully aware of the hidden costs of scarfing down a McChicken and a McDiet McCoke while sitting in McTraffic, and that price will be paid by the size of my ass. But we all do what we have to do.

I had birthday parties at McDonald’s as a (fat) child. I survived in New York on $10 a day eating nothing but food served under those magical golden arches, and other than the mild chest pains, I was really grateful for them. Their MSG runs deep in my veins.

So I’m at the drive-thru, offering up my handful of quarters for my meal (because you can do that there), and the woman at the window is taking another order, apparently for a Happy Meal. First, she asks, “Apples or fries?” which I think is pretty neat, if fundamentally flawed. Who eats apples with a cheeseburger?

That’s not a logical culinary combo.

It’s the sort of haphazard three in the morning meal that would be thrown together by a drunk dude based upon what happens to be in his kitchen: “Let’s see, I’ll have a cheeseburger, some apple sticks, this can of water chestnuts and half a jar of olives.” While the logic of the meal escapes me, I can appreciate what they’re going for. Obviously, things have changed since I was a kid.

Or perhaps they haven’t, because the drivethrough employee’s next question is one I’ve heard for thirty years: “Girl toy or boy toy?” The rational assumption here is that one of the Happy Meal toys has a penis, and one has a vagina – because that would be the difference between boys and girls.

Now, I’m not a parent, but if I were I would take real issue with serving my child a meal that includes a My Little Pony with a cervix. And then my kid would have all these questions, and I’d say, “Hush, child, stop your incessant questions regarding your toy’s genitals. Daddy’s watching his stories. Now finish your apple slices and freshen my martini.”

Topher Payne is an Atlanta-based playwright, and the author of the book “Necessary Luxuries: Notes on a Semi-Fabulous Life.” Find out more at www.topherpayne.com

There is another possibility, a patently absurd possibility that makes no sense in enlightened times, a possibility which is all the more absurd because it just happens to be one hundred percent accurate: McDonald’s assigns gender roles to its Happy Meals. Yes, boys, we’ve got neat little journals available, but literacy is overrated. Build yourself a Megazord. Girls, you can grow up to be President, you can be a soldier or a firefighter or anything your heart desires, but you may not build a Megazord.

I do not have the slightest idea what a Megazord is, I assume it’s Latin for “We didn’t land the merchandising contract for Despicable Me 2,” but I do know without question that my testicles do not make me more qualified to build one.

There are bigger problems, of course, which are in desperate need of our attention. Russia, for example. Discriminatory employment and housing laws. Finishing up this whole marriage business once and for all. But I think it’s the overwhelming size and scope of those concerns that makes this McProblem so irritating, because it could be so easily remedied.

All they have to do is be specific in the inquiry. McDonald’s asks if the kid wants fries or apples, not “hot, awesome salty goodness, or cold, raw, healthy sadness.” Similarly, instead of “Girl toy or boy toy,” ask if they’d like the Megazord or the journal or powder puff or whatever pink and purple piece of crap they’re currently offering. It’s not hard, and kids like to know exactly what they’re getting. They crave information.

That’s why they’re so nosy and ask embarrassing personal questions.

I was the kind of kid who would’ve wanted the scented My Little Pony, but not because I liked ponies. It’s because I loved things that smelled like food but weren’t, which is why I was at McDonald’s in the first place.

If we’re going to tell these kids they’re extraordinary, that there’s an endless variety of options available to them, why would we then take away half their choices because we arbitrarily decided they don’t fit their gender? I’m not lovin’ that at all.

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New 2014 Subaru Forester2.5i

21990 21 ,990

$ AS LOW AS

#EFA-01

....................................................................$14,870

2010 Toyota Matrix

....................................................................$14,949

#AC250096

2013 Nissan Versa SL #DL831956

....................................................................$15,496

2011 Ford Fusion Hybrid #BR158955

....................................................................$15,690

2011 Kia Soul Plus #B7300831

....................................................................$15,846

2011 Mazda 3 Sport #B1478004

....................................................................$16,906

2010 Honda Accord EX-L #AA091726

...................................................................$18,960

2009 Mini Cooper S #9TT96944

....................................................................$18,990

2011 Chevy Camaro 2LT #B9109419

....................................................................$22,793

2012 Subaru Outback #C3248539

....................................................................$22,990

2012 Subaru Outback

....................................................................$23,990 2011 Toyota Tacoma Prerunner $ #BM113346 ................................................................... 25,793 2013 VW Passat TDI $ #DC035573 ................................................................... 29,390 #C1283886

Purchase or lease any new ((Previously reviously untitled) subaru and receive a comPlimentary limentary factory scheduled maintenance Plan ee s ubaru a dded s ecurity m aintenance Plan for intervals, coverages and for 2 years or 24,000 miles (whichever comes first.) s see subaru added security maintenance limitations. customer must take delivery before 1-2-2014 and reside within the Promotional area. at ParticiPating dealers only. see dealer for Program details and eligibility. all Prices Plus taX, tag and include $399 doc fee with aPProved credit. not resPonsible for mis-Prints. not all customers will Qualify, with aPProved credit. Prices good until sePt. 30th 2013.

1950 orion dr decatur ga

404-248-1888

www.STIVERSATLANTASUBARU.com

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