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FORMAL MALE REVIEW

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BS WEST

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IT’S MY PACHANGA

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CHARLIE’S PHOENIX

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15TH ANNIVERSARY

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KARAMBA

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TGIF

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CRUISIN 7TH

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17 W. Vernon Ave., Unit 3 Phoenix, AZ 85003 (602) 750-1164 www.IONAZ.com ionarizona@me.com PUBLISHER / SALES / FOUNDER Jack M. Tesorero ...................... jacktesorero@me.com EDITOR Deon Brown ............................... ionazeditor@me.com ART DIRECTOR Alex Campos ...................... ionazproduction@me.com COPY EDITOR ...................................... Austin Head PRODUCTION & ARTWORK SUBMISSIONS ionazproduction@me.com NATIONAL ADVERTISING REPRESENTATIVE Rivendell Media (212) 242-6863 PHOTOGRAPHERS: Franklin Diaz Scotty Kirby LeakedGlass Production RSVP Photography Fernando Hernandez Rafalogie Studio CONTRIBUTORS:

Addison DeWitt C. Edwards Ted Kirby

Peter Lora Paul Sanchez Miss Tiger

Published monthly by

1995-2019: 24 Years of Design and Creative Excellence Š 2019 JMT Designs, Inc.

ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

PRINTED IN PHOENIX, AZ

All original artwork and photography for ION Arizona Magazine remain property of JMT Designs, Inc, and cannot be reproduced, altered, or sold without authorization and compensation. Limited usage rights can be purchased for a small fee. NOTE: The views expressed in these articles do not necessarily reflect the views of ION Arizona, its staff, or that of its parent company. Publication of the name or photograph of any person or organization within ION Arizona is not to be construed as any indication of the sexual orientation of such persons or organization. To our knowledge, all people photographed and published in ION Arizona are over the age of 18. Some photos were submitted by our readers. To our knowledge, they own the copyrights, and they have given us permission to reproduce them. If you see a picture that you own, please call us immediately and we will remove it from future publications. All copy, text, display, photos, and illustrations in the ads are published with the understanding that the advertisers are fully authorized, have secured proper written consent for the use of names, pictures, and testimonials of any living person, and that ION Arizona is not responsible for unlawful use of such content.

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Tuesday-Friday 11am-6pm Saturday 11am-4:30pm

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I

I’m in love. Again!

s it better to have loved and lost than never to have loved at all? I’m writing this article at 5:30 a.m. on my balcony on what may be the hottest day of the year. It’s going to be 114° today but right now as the sun rises in downtown Phoenix, it’s a very comfortable 80° with no wind, low humidity and you could hear a pin drop. The weather constantly reminds me of why I love Arizona. But weather is only the tip of the iceberg of why I love Arizona. Since coming out at a now late 23-year-old, I’ve been lucky enough to fall in love with three men. I’ve lusted after many more. When I moved here in 1998, I knew not one soul. Since then, I have accumulated tons of great friends, I have met hundreds of amazing people, and most of us love Arizona. It is a melting pot of great adventurers from all over the country that choose to live here.  New York has its culture, San Francisco has their immense gay community, Florida has their beaches, Hawaii has its tropical climate, Seattle has their green landscape, and LA has, well, LA is LA. But Arizona is like none of those. Leave the shackles of city life and you have snow, rivers, lakes, 24

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waterfalls, canyons, mountains and beautiful sprawling desert. This issue is dedicated to our state’s beauty and the people who love it. I also love the Arizona LGBTQ+ community. So much so, I created a magazine about it. For an encore, we are rolling out another tool to help you discover our communities. The new ION App will officially launch this month. Download the beta version now at the Apple and Android stores. Search “ION Arizona.” It has all the local businesses, organizations, nonprofits, upcoming community Facebook events, guides to bars, restaurants, businesses and more. Check it out and let us know what you think. You will never fall in love with Arizona if you don’t explore Arizona so get out an enjoy. Use the ION magazine and the new ION App to help you navigate this great state. But please be careful when you take selfies on cliffs, canyons or mountains. We need you back here! Jack M. Tesorero Arizona Lover at Watkins Lake

BETA

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Femme Fatale Phenomenon Bio Queen Taylor Rene’ comes to slay By: Deon Brown 28

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here’s many versions of drag that’s splintered off from the traditional, historically referenced “man in a dress” version. There’s High and Low Camp Queens, Skag Drag, Genderfucks, Pageant Queens, Tranimals, Drag Kings and the list goes on. There’s also Bio Queens: anatomically correct women who perform in an often exaggerated, theatrical manner, much as a traditional show queen would, but hijacking the gender construct of drag. Kind of a Victor/Victoria ruse. It can get really psycho-socio-homo-sexually philosophical and I’m not about to tackle that. What I would like to talk about Taylor “Slay” Rene’. Headquartered in Blythe, California, where she owns and operates her own dance school and studio, Taylor Rene’ is tearing up stages across Arizona and beyond, making a mark with audiences as a Bio Queen “Femme.”

“I’m a biological, anatomically correct female. I’m also a girl who performs in drag,” she says. That includes the glitter, wigs, heels, makeup, eyelashes ... everything. As Kiva Hollywood (her real name, I kid you not) her résumé includes gigs as a Phoenix Suns Dancer, a Seattle Seagal, and as an Arizona Cardinal’s Cheerleader. “I’m a choreographer and created dance numbers for drag queens, and I loved it,” she told ION. “They all told me, ‘You should do drag!’ So I started performing in drag about six years ago, doing Beyoncé, Janet Jackson, and Tina Turner, but eventually turned to being an original. They say, ‘Always be true to yourself.’ And for me that’s ‘Taylor Rene’.’” That’s when Kiva really caught the Bio Queen drag bug. “I loved the opportunity to be free on stage, but I had a voice too,” she said, “I didn’t want to lip synch and wanted to do my own singing; I started creating my own music and singing about four years ago; however, I keep the drag aesthetic while performing. It’s the best of both worlds.” She’s headlined at Tucson Pride and Bisbee Pride in addition to tearing up the stage at Paz Cantina on Roosevelt Row in downtown Phoenix this summer. This past April Taylor Rene’ showed the girls in Palm Springs how it’s done at the legendary Dinah Shore Open. “I couldn’t believe it! I’m really connected to this incredibly large, all-female audience. They treated me like a celebrity! I was riding in Escalades, staying in the best hotel. It was like a true life version September 2019 WWW.IONAZ.COM 29

of The L Word,” she laughs. “It was such an honor. I’m the ‘L’ of LGBTQ,” she shared. “I’m on the lesbian side of the fence—I’m out and I’m proud!” Her fan base is growing. “I get to meet so many amazing people. I’m surprised at how many people have reached out to me because of my music. My song ‘Reach Out’ is about anti-bullying and suicide prevention. I’ve had many young people tell me that it helped them. I once had a woman tell me that she listened to ‘Show Me That Slay,’ every day while she was going through a bad divorce. She said it was her ‘empowerment song.’ It’s exciting and dancey.” Taylor Rene’ wrote both songs. “I want people to know that I’ve worked really hard for myself on this journey. Nothing was handed to me. Off stage I’m really shy, but the ‘Taylor Rene’’ persona helps me channel my bigger self.” The future? “I’d really like to go on

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tour. Bigger than life shows. Truthfully, my worlds collide ... during the day I’m a girl in a t-shirt and pony tail; from that I go from that to glitter, sequins, big hair, lashes. Glitz and glam all the way!” Listen to Taylor Rene’s’ music on Spotify, iTunes, Amazon, YouTube, Reverbnation, Tiday, and all streaming media platforms. Taylor Rene’s’ songs include “Show Me That Slay,” “Black Barbie Doll” and “Sex Fight.” Follow “Taylor Rene Holly-Wood” on Facebook. With special thanks to booking agent Diesoul Evans, you can catch Taylor Rene’ every second Friday at Caravan Taproom at 10 p.m. for S.W.A.G. (Sexy, Wild and Gay) Fridays. She’ll be opening (with her dance school kids as backup dancers) on September 29 for gay rapper Lil Nas X at the Sandbox Music Festival at the Scarizona Scaregrounds, 1901 N. Alma School Road in Mesa. Tickets available at SandboxAZ.com.

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Dirty Disney You’ll love fall in love with that naughty rat once you hear one filthy song after another about the Nastiest Place on Earth. Join Pandora DeStrange and her twisted friends for a night we guarantee you’ll never forget. Arizona dates: Thursday, Sept. 5 at Crescent Ballroom • Saturday, Sept. 7 at Club Congress in Tucson. Get more info at DeStrange.com

13 Blackout Party at Charlie’s Friday the 13th! Charlie’s kills the lights! And that means it’s time for a Blackout Party! A little bit of fluorescent paint strategically dabbed here and there can be a lotta fun! No bad mojo allowed here! Charlie’s, 727 E. Camelback Rd. in Phoenix. See ad on p. 11

Pool Party at FLEX Spa Celebrate the end of summer (well, officially it’s over) at a pool party! Water balloons! Prizes! And lots of weenies to eat! Your hosts will be the super hot Levi Karter of Cocky Boys and Nic Sahara of Falcon Studios. They might play a game of “Marco Polo” you’ll never forget! Saturday, September 14 from 2-6 p.m. at FLEX Spa Phoenix, 1517 S. Black Canyon in Phoenix. See ad on p. 99

award-winning, contemporary setting american classics w/a mediterranian twist burgers, salads, entrees and more

traditional and comfort classics signature cocktails in a pub-style setting best patio and perfect event venue

fezoncentral.com 105 W Portland St

blissrebar.com 901 N 4th St

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Tucson Pride in the Desert Get ready to celebrate over a week full of Pride events in the Old Pueblo! Dance parties, Pride royalty crowning, a festival, brunch, quality entertainment and so much more! Tucson rolls out the red carpet for their LGBTQ friends and family from September 20-29 at locations all over the city. Visit TucsonPride.org/Pride2019 for more info. See ad on p. 23

Game Day Sports Party at Karamba’s Get ready for the gridiron! It’s football season, guys & gals! Wear your favorite sport team’s jersey— football, baseball, soccer, any sport—and party with your friends on the fifty-yard line! In this case, that means Karamba’s. Saturday, September 21 at Karamba, 1724 E. McDowell Rd. in Phoenix. See ad on p. 15

SEPTEMBER 2019 ION EVENTS DATE 1-2 8, 21, 25 11-17 13 13 14 14 14 14 14-15 15 20-21 20-29 21 21 25 29 OCTOBER 4 5

EVENT Labor Day w/ Carnaval Latino Big Gay Singalong Brotherhood Week Arizona Leather Run Blackout Party End of Summer Party Mr. Anvil Contest/Parking Lot Party Pat O’s Birthday Latin Fiesta Party Mexico Independence Weekend Foam Party Customer Appreciation Party Pride in the Desert Game Day Sports Party Animal Crossing Party Comicon Party Leather & Lace Party

LOCATION Karamba’s Film Bar The Anvil FLEX Spa Charlie’s FLEX Spa The Anvil Bunkhouse Karamba’s Charlie’s The Anvil Dick’s Cabaret Various Karamba BS West Karamba’s Karamba’s

CITY Phoenix Phoenix Phoenix Phoenix Phoenix Phoenix Phoenix Phoenix Phoenix Phoenix Phoenix Phoenix Tucson Phoenix Scottsdale Phoenix Phoenix

La Sonora Karisma Prettier In Pink Party

Karamba’s Charlie’s

Phoenix Phoenix

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Mr. Hudson Explores

The Gay Man’s Travel Companion 38

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enry Hudson was a 17th-century English explorer who made several attempts to find a passage through the Americas to China and India. While he didn’t find one (although to be fair to Henry, there wasn’t one to be found), he did return many times to explore the area, discovering the natural harbor that became New York City. His findings encouraged some of the first settlers to head for the New World. Hudson Bay in Canada and the Hudson River in New York are both named after him. “What we love about Henry Hudson is that he was a gentleman driven by a passion for adventure and discovery, a man who inspired thousands of people to follow in his footsteps,” said the publishers at gestalten. “We couldn’t think of any better inspiration for our brand.” LGBTQ people are cultural explorers. Throughout history, it’s been true in art, dance, fashion. No news there. But what about the paths they’ve blazed as travelers? Turns out where they go, the

world follows, but this insight has been widely overlooked—until now with the new book, Mr. Hudson Explores: The Gay Man’s Travel Companion from publishers, gestalten. Where LGBTQ travelers in the not-sodistant past were limited to a handful of safe and welcoming destinations, they’re now more adventurous than ever in their travel. The swiftly shifting dynamics of queer travel are on full display in this book’s 300 vibrant pages, highlighting exceptional experiences in 20 international cities, offering curated guides for carefully selected global destinations, backed-up by in-depth features and remarkable photographs. Hot off the press, Mr. Hudson Explores: The Gay Man’s Travel Companion, highlights the beautiful, authentic, and diverse places LGBTQ travelers seek out. Instead of focusing on saunas, bathhouses, cruising, and bars like most travel content for gay men, pioneering gay men’s travel website MrHudson.com understands not all gay men want a “gay holiday.” Not just for men, Mr. Hudson Explores is the ideal travel companion for the

Photo by: Sharon Garcia September 2019 WWW.IONAZ.COM 39

discerning LGBTQ traveler, who’s keen to ensure their trips are full of incredible experiences—especially for those who love to explore in style, offering a collection of places and events that reflect the local perspective and way of life. Organizations, businesses, and initiatives that get it right by being inclusive and relevant. This guide takes you to who crafts the best cocktails, serves the tastiest food, showcases the edgiest, most creative talent, sells the most beautiful souvenirs and gifts, and, of course, throws the best parties. As more and more countries begin to recognize same-sex relationships, travel has become decidedly more accessible for LGBTQ people, and in some places is actively encouraged,” said Mr. Hudson Co-Founder and CEO Bastiaan Ellen. “The LGBTQ community—who hold passports at more than double the rate the rest of the US population—is striking out farther and wider than ever before.” While queer travelers are in no way a homogenous group, many like to explore in style. When we

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travel, we want to stay somewhere truly different and special. Research requires visiting a lot of different websites. Most gay travel sites are focused on the local gay scene. Generic hotel booking sites don’t necessarily understand LGBTQ requirements (like one bed for couples), or share our sense of style. Mr. Hudson brings these things together in one place. The book and website curate the most alluring destinations for culture and art, the most inspiring museums to visit, traditional and up-and-coming food places, best shopping experiences, hotels, music, and nightlife. Mr. Hudson maps the big-hitters such as Paris, London, and New York City with a different perspective, and samples the way through less-charted territories such as Shanghai, Portland, and Tel Aviv. En route they’ll introduce you to charismatic locals—each with a personal take on their city and a compelling story. They’ve curated the best a destination has to offer—from hotels, culture and shopping, to memorable drinking and dining experiences. “These are destinations for gays, but not necessarily gay destinations,” is how founder Bastiaan Ellen puts it.

By the way, Mr. Hudson warmly invites all travelers to visit the destinations they love. Traveling single, as a couple, or with a group, every bon vivant is bound to find a few treasures with Mr. Hudson. About Mr Hudson Co-Founder and CEO Bastiaan Ellen is a seasoned traveler and e-commerce marketing expert for over two decades, who has held senior international positions at Expedia, Thomas Cook, and eBay. Frustrated with the lack of relevant quality travel content for gay men, he co-founded Mr. Hudson in 2016 with his husband, David. Check out his fascinating interview at BerlinTravelFestival.com

Photo by: Tyler Nix Visit MrHudsonExplores.com for more about the most exciting LGBTQ vacation spots, and honeymoon destinations. Check out the more from new book, Mr. Hudson Explores: The Gay Man’s Travel Companion from US.gestalten.com Available at Amazon.com 312 pages, hardcover, 7” x 9.5” for $26.43. SRP $40. Check out our Instagram: @MrHudsonExplores

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“The Barbra Seville Show” 10 Year Anniversary It seems like just yesterday that the ambitious, bright-eyed, winsome, happy-go-lucky Blonde One took the stage by storm with her talent and witty repartée with her very own show. Now, over 520 Saturday nights and around 1750 guest stars later, (that doesn’t even count her Friday night stints hosting The Girlie Show ) we’re celebrating ten years of The Barbra Seville Show. Join Barbra and her fans as they celebrate on Saturday, September 7 at The Rock, 4129 N. 7th Ave. in Phoenix. What time? 10 o’clock p.m. on the dot ... never 10:01.

SEPTEMBER 2019 ION DRAG LISTINGS DATE

TIME

LOCATION SHOW / PERFORMER(S)

1

11:00pm

Karamba

Yara Sofia from RuPaul’s Drag Race

5

10:00pm

The Rock

Face Lift with Savannah & Whitney Stevens

7

10:00pm

The Rock

10 Years of The Barbra Seville Show

8

7:00pm

Charlie’s

Pussy LeHoots’ Birthday Celebration

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10:00pm

The Rock

Rock Bottom with Benaddiction

Mondays

10:00pm

Charlie’s

The Strip Factor - Claudia B, Piper M’Shay & Adriana Galliano

Tuesdays

8:00pm

Charlie’s

Claudia’s Karaoke Cabaret “Sing with the Queen”

Wednesdays

8:30pm

Charlie’s

La Loteria with Susan Martell

Wednesdays

9:30pm

Charlie’s

Diamond in Fuego

Wednesdays

10:30pm

Karamba

Karamba Girls Show with Mileena Dallas & Fernanda Vargas

Thursdays

10:30pm

Karamba

Gigi DeMilo Show

Thursdays

10:00pm

Charlie’s

Piping Hot Thursdays with Piper M’Shay

2nd & 4th Fri

10:00pm

The Rock

Coco’s Charm School

Fridays

10:30pn

Cruisin’ 7th

TGIF (Thank Grande Its Friday) with Espressa Grande

Friday’s

9:30pm

Charlie’s

The Boys & The Booze With Diamond Dallas & The Sinful Studs

Fridays

10:30pm

The Rock

Special Event Rotating Drag Shows

Fridays

9:00pm

Plazma

New Times Best Drag Show Freaky Fridays with Celia Putty

Fridays

9:00pm

BS West

Elements - The Valley’s Top Drag Entertainers

Saturdays

10:30pm

Cruisin’ 7th

Lady Christian’s Lady & the Tramps

Saturdays

10:00pm

The Rock

The Barbra Seville Show

Saturdays

9:30pm

Charlie’s

Saturday Under the Stars With Claudia B

Sundays

7:00pm

Charlie’s

Pussy LeHoot & Friends

Sundays

10:30pm

Charlie’s

Latin Explosion With Adriana Galliano

Sundays

10:30pm

Karamba

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verybody knows that Bliss ReBAR is a Phoenix LGBTQ staple known for their sold-out Drag Brunches and “Sunday Funday.” They wanted to bring that same concept to a Saturday night inviting others to join them, enjoy a light meal, signature cocktails and fab drag entertainment. Get ready for “Brunch After Dark” with Nevaeh McKenzie as your hostess.

Bliss ReBAR stages monthly showcase of queens & canapés before midnight. By: Deon Brown Photo by: Scotty Kirby 46

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“After I stepped away from Charlie’s as a resident hostess over a year ago, I didn’t see myself hosting any more shows,” Karrington Valenzuela (a.k.a. Neveah) said. “However, this past spring Mark Howard, co-owner of Bliss ReBAR, approached me. I told Mark that I really wasn’t interested in hosting anything. I wanted to enjoy time away from the spotlight. But I love entertaining so much, and after hearing more, I was intrigued.” Mark Howard elaborated. “We wanted to add a monthly event to our mix and we wanted to do something that we do well—and that’s brunch. Given our ‘Bliss Blush Drag Brunch’ with Barbra Seville (sold out shows for four years!) we decided to add a nightly event once a month and keep our winning combination of drag and brunch—but at night. So ‘Brunch After Dark’ was born.” He continued, “We coaxed Neveah McKenzie to be our

hostess. She knows how to host and run a show like no other. I’m really excited about having two amazing monthly events at Bliss ReBAR with two of the most talented drag hostesses with the mostesses in Phoenix.”

troubles for a couple of hours, laugh at our jokes, laugh with each other, but more importantly, to be able to laugh at ourselves.”

Every second Saturday night of each month you’ll be welcomed with a Deep Eddy aperitif, seated, and offered your pick of a light entree. Then, sit back and get ready for Neveah and two other drag queens; one is promoted as Neveah’s “Bliss Babe”—a guest spot for new entertainers who are getting their feet (or heels) wet to gain exposure. “I’ve always liked offering a guest spot for new entertainers; after 10 years in this business I know how difficult it is to make a name for yourself. Sure, there are more resources and outlets, but no ‘competition’ is going to give you the tools necessary to entertain an audience who paid to see us,” Neveah pointed out. “You better do your best; you only have seconds before they decide you’re not entertaining.” The pros are tops and this is a great proving ground for ingenues. Mark enthused, “More than a drag show, we call this a ‘drag event.’ Nevaeh and the queens banter together and with the guests, dishing it out, and serving it up to the ‘T.’ Combined with good eats and strong drinks it makes for a fun night.” “Brunch After Dark” show is coined as Bliss ReBAR’s “Pre-Game to your End Game.” They want your night to start off on the right foot with great entertainment and laughter. “Especially in these times,” Neveah said, “I want my entertainers and me to make you forget about your

“Brunch After Dark” requires advance reservations. This includes full table service for all drinks and food. Interested? Email Jackson@ BlissReBAR.com. The next event is September 14 (and every second Saturday of the month). $25 (payable upon arrival) includes: Booze - three Deep Eddy cocktails • Bites - brunchinspired/evening appropriate bites • Broads (but don’t look too close!) Arrive before 8 p.m. The show will start promptly at 8:15 p.m. concluding before 10 p.m. so you can continue on with your evening. You might just want to stick around ReBAR for the evening. I mean, why not? September 2019 WWW.IONAZ.COM 47

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Maluma

This Colombian heartbreaker is the hottest thing in music, topping Billboard charts and winning Latin Grammys. You may recall Madonna licking his sexy toes (who wouldn’t?) on their music video, “Medellín.” Don’t miss Maluma on Saturday, September 21 at Talking Stick Resort Arena, 201 E. Jefferson St. in Phoenix. TicketMaster.com or 800-745-3000

Charli XCX

The Grammy nominee hasn’t stopped since she started releasing music on MySpace back in 2008. She rocked at Lollapalooza and collaborated with Diplo, Lizzo, Cupcakke, Troye Sivan, Kim Petras and everyone else in music today. She’s coming on Friday, September 27 to the Marquee Theatre, 730 N. Mill Ave. in Tempe. Need tix? Call 480-839-0707 or visit LuckyManOnline.com

Deadmau5 & Lights

Get out your crazy rave outfits and glow sticks! (And probably a little molly, too, if I know you.) EDM kingpin and progressive house music DJ Deadmau5 will entrance the audience along with Canadian musician, Lights. The rolling happens on Saturday, October 5 at Comerica Theatre, 401 W. Washington St. Get your tickets at TicketMaster.com or call 800-745-3000

SEPTEMBER 2019 ION CONCERT CALENDAR DATE ARTIST 6 Brian Wilson, & Zombies 10 John Mayer 13 Dave Matthews Band 14 Eric Clapton 16 Mumford & Sons 16 Phantogram 18 Lenny Kravitz 21 Maluma 21 Ramon Ayala 22 Chance the Rapper 24-25 Rob Thomas 26 Peter Frampton 27 Charli XCX 28 India.Arie 28-29 Luis Fonsi 30 Jenny Lewis OCTOBER 5 Dead Mau5 & Lights

LOCATION Comerica Theatre - Phoenix Talking Stick Arena - Phoenix Ak-Chin Pavilion - Phoenix Talking Stick Arena - Phoenix Talking Stick Arena - Phoenix The Van Buren - Phoenix Comerica Theatre - Phoenix Talking Stick Arena - Phoenix Casino del Sol - Tucson Gila River Arena - Glendale Tucson Music Hall - Tucson Comerica Theatre - Phoenix Marquee Theatre - Tempe Chandler Ctr. for the Arts Casino del Sol - Tucson The Van Buren - Phoenix

PHONE 800-745-3000 800-745-3000 800-745-3000 800-745-3000 800-745-3000 800-745-3000 800-745-3000 800-745-3000 800-344-9435 800-745-3000 800-745-3000 800-745-3000 480-839-0707 480-782-2680 800-344-9435 800-745-3000

Comerica Theatre - Phoenix

800-745-3000

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Two Dykes and a Mic

McKenzie Goodwin and Rachel Scanlon bring you the funniest queer stand-up with this all-female LGBTQ show. They bring parts of their podcast including horrendous stories from their online dating nightmares to the stage on Sunday, September 8 at StandUp Live in CityScape, 50 W. Jefferson St. in Phoenix. Call 480-719-6100 or go to StandUpLive.com for tix.

Fortune Feimster

Another funny lesbian! Fortune made her debut on NBC’s Last Comic Standing in 2010. You’ve seen her on The Mindy Project, Drunk History, Glee, and judging on RuPaul’s Drag Race. Don’t miss her on September 20-21 at the Tempe Improv, 930 E.University Dr. in Tempe. Want tix? Call 480-921-9877 or visit TempeImprov.com

Miss Saigon

If you’re looking for a happy ending, you’ve come to the wrong musical. Based on Puccini’s weepy opera Madame Butterfly, this is the ill-fated romance between a US Marine and a South Vietnamese bargirl during the Vietnam War. Bring your handkerchiefs! September 24-25 at ASU Gammage, 1200 S. Forest Ave. in Tempe. For tickets call 480-965-3434 or visit ASUgammage.com

SEPTEMBER 2019 ION THEATER +STANDUP DATE EVENT 5-7 Jeff Dye 6-21 “Actually” 6-22 Into the Woods 6-29 Xanadu 7-28 The Royale 8 Two Dykes and a Mic 12-13 Jess Hilarious 13-14 Heather McDonald 13-14 JP Sears 13-29 Blues in the Night 20-21 Fortune Feimster 20-29 Ladies in Waiting 24-29 Miss Saigon OCTOBER 3-12 A Vampire Tale thru 5 Bright Star thru 13 Kinky Boots

COMPANY PHONE StandUp Live - Phoenix 480-719-6100 iTheatre Collaborative - Phx 602-252-8497 Mesa Encore Theatre 480-644-6500 AZ B’way Theatre - Peoria 623-776-8400 AZ Theatre Co. - Tucson 520-622-2823 StandUp Live - Phoenix 480-719-6100 StandUp Live - Phoenix 480-719-6100 Tempe Improv 480-921-9877 StandUp Live - Phoenix 480-719-6100 Black Theatre Troupe - Phx 602-258-8129 StandUp Live - Phoenix 480-719-6100 SW Shakespeare Co. - Taliesen West 480-644-6500 ASU Gammage - Tempe 480-965-3434 Scorpius Dance - Phx Theatre Hale Ctr. Theatre - Gilbert Phoenix Theatre Co.

602-254-2151 480-497-1181 602-254-2151

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J-Lo to Judy Hustlers Starring: Jennifer Lopez, Cardi B, Constance Wu, Lizzo, Julia Stiles “We’re family now! A family with money!” Oh dear. A team of clever NYC hookers—I mean, “strippers”—band together to fleece their Wall Street clients. This comedy/crime/drama should be entertaining if for no other reason than to see J-Lo try to act. Again. (Yes. We still remember Gigli. And The Boy Next Door. And Maid in Manhattan. The list goes on ...) Opens September 13

Downton Abbey Starring: Hugh Bonneville, Elizabeth McGovern, Maggie Smith Rich people. They’re just like us! America adored the trials and tribulations of the hoity-toity Crawley clan back in early 20th century England on PBS. The hit melodrama comes to the big screen. Now the filthy rich aristocrats are in a tizzy because the King and Queen are stopping by for tea. Gasp! What to do? Meanwhile, will Thomas the evil gay footman

find a beau? Will rival sisters Ladies Mary & Edith (The “Marsha” and “Jan” of the brood) call a truce? The bitchy Dowager Countess (Smith, Harry Potter franchise) will reel off one zinger after another. Isn’t that why you’re really here, anyway? Opens September 20

Judy Starring: Renée Zellweger, Finn Wittrock, Rufus Sewell The original gay icon. Way after the talent powerhouse crossed over the rainbow as “Dorothy,” Judy Garland suffered as MGM’s cash cow, fighting nervous breakdowns, addiction, and one lousy marriage after another. This controversial biopic focuses on Garland’s (Zellweger, Cold Mountain) sold out (and disastrous) concerts in London as she spiraled out of control in her last days, Amy Winehouse style. Opens September 27 September 2019 WWW.IONAZ.COM 59

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Aural Fixation

by Peter Lora PeterWasTheWolf@Gmail.com

Taylor Swift LOVER

A decade after Taylor Swift’s VMA run-in with Kanye West, we’ve seen an almost comic book arc as she took a turn as a digitized, hip hop villain with Reputation. Swift’s LOVER era is heralded with “Me,” a saccharine, Kid’s Bop duet with Brenden Urie. For what follow up “You Need to Calm Down” failed at musically, it more than made up for affirming her position as a Todrick squired ally. The rest of LOVER shows off the pop craftsmanship that got Swift to where she is now. “Cruel Summer,” “The Archer,” and “Cornelia Street” all pick up where 1989’s Swift left off. Her duet with Dixie Chicks, “Soon You’ll Get Better” is Swift at her absolute best, figuring out adulthood, guitar in hand. Available Now

Missy Elliott

Iconology After a 14 year hiatus, Missy’s short and sweet EP, sees the legendary hip hop producer and performer tinkering with trends. “Throw it Back” earthshaking fuzzy trap bass and “Cool Offs” 808 drum led beat feel sparse compared to earlier triumphs. Aaliyah seance “DripDemeanor” and doo-wop track “Why I Still Love You” cap off the EP. Elliott explains what might be

regarded as apathy on opening song: “What you’re doing now, I did for a while” Available Now

SleaterKinney The Center Won’t Hold

With the help of St. Vincent, Sleater-Kinney’s new release finds the band taking their raw rock style to a sophisticated, sexier place. The title track is “Cell Block Tango”-esque, but it’s the status quo that has to go. “The Future is Here” tackles our digital obsession, “Can I Go On”addresses the commoditization of aging punks like themselves. Standout “Reach Out” borders on disco with perfect harmonies. The sound is sleeker, but being a punk woman post40 might be their most subversive move yet. Available Now Prince Rama

THE DL SONGS TO DOWNLOAD ARTIST - SONG Prince Rama - “Love in Kontrol” Mura Masa - “I Don’t Think I Can Do This Again” with Clairo Normani – “Motivation” HAIM - “Summer Girl” Angel Olson - “All Mirrors” Charli XCX - “Cross You Out” feat. Sky Ferreira BROCKHAMPTON - “BOY BYE” Magdalena Bay - “Venice” Caroline Polachek - “Door” NEM and Robyn - “Umwegl” September 2019 WWW.IONAZ.COM 63

“God Bless the Nelly Queens” Before Stonewall: The Making of a Gay and Lesbian Community Narrated by Rita Mae Brown Much has been made of the famed Stonewall Riots as we remember the 50th anniversary of the watershed event. That act of not-so-civil disobedience in New York was the culmination of years of growing restlessness among the LGBTQ community across the nation. This reissued, newly restored 1984 documentary explores the stories and people across America who are part of the our LGBTQ history and herstory. Revealing—even heartbreaking—are the stories of everyday folks who lived through often brutal outings. The lesbian in the military standing up to her CO way before “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell,” the closeted man muscled into a loveless marriage, and the woman committed to a sanitarium by her own family, share the stories of their survival. Particularly touching is the reunion of regulars of the fabled San Francisco bohemian café and clandestine gay bar, The Black Cat (1906-1964). All

senior citizens at the time of filming, they laugh, cry and mug for each other, the long years passed melting away. Among the bunch is the café’s colorful star, José Sarria, The Grande Mère, Absolute Empress I de San Francisco, founder of the Imperial Court system and the first openly gay candidate for public office in America. The “Nightingale of Montgomery Street” reprises his nightly closing standard, “God Save the Nelly Queens.” (Sarria retired for many years in Phoenix, Arizona. His story is a tale all on its own.) Fortunately, Sarria, Harry Hay (legendary founder of the Mattachine Society and the Radical Faeiries) are captured here on film. These forbearers—some famous, some ordinarily extraordinary—are all gone. The near 90-minute long 35-year-old documentary with vintage film footage may lack the bells and whistles of today’s glossier docs, but this powerful, personal, funny, often emotional, story of how we got where we are should be seen by everyone with an interest in LGBTQ rights, thanks to the dykes, the fairies, the fags, the pansies, the bulldaggers and the queens behind our struggle. They made history. Can you? Available on DVD at FirstRunFeatures.com, Amazon Instant Video, iTunes Store September 2019 WWW.IONAZ.COM 67

11th Annual Desperado Film Festival

T

he Desperado LGBT Film Festival brings some to the best, most insightful, entertaining feature films and shorts to the Valley. Discover the importance of LGBTQ films and filmmaking as a way to express our unique cultural, collective and individual identities, diversity, how we’re different, and how we’re the same. ION Arizona is a proud sponsor of the event. Roll ‘em!

Friday, October 11   6 p.m.

Film Festival Opening Reception

7:30 p.m.

For They Know Not What They Do Daniel Karslake’s film follows four Christian families of faith who share the stories of how they each dealt with their children coming out to them as LGBTQ. This documentary shows that religious faith doesn’t need to be based around homophobia and transphobia. It also argues that those who bandy the Bible’s teachings as a way to condemn gay and trans people are doing irrevocable harm to an atrisk community and goes against the teachings of Jesus Christ. The families profiled show the real struggle of how to bridge what they’ve been taught about the LGBTQ community by their church, and the love they feel for their kids. Find out more at ForTheyKnow.org

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This film is followed by a Q&A with Bishop Gene Robinson, the first priest in an openly gay relationship to be consecrated as a bishop by a major Christian denomination for the Episcopal Diocese of New Hampshire.

Saturday, October 12   11 a.m. The Garden Left Behind This searing film about the epidemic of violence against trans-women of color also carries an important message for cisgender people. The story traces the relationship between Tina, a young Mexican trans woman, and Eliana, her grandmother, as they navigate Tina’s transition and struggle to build a life for themselves as undocumented immigrants in New York City. Followed by a TransSpectrum meeting 1 p.m. Retablo Set in an isolated village in the Peruvian mountains, Segundo Paucar, a 14-year-old boy who wants to be an altar boy, is being trained by his father, Noé, an artist known for his handcrafted retablos (religious devotional

pieces), to continue with the family legacy. There’s more going on between father and son that we don’t see. Their relationship is tested and Segundo’s world nearly falls apart when the villagers discover Noés secret. Spanish with subtitles 3 p.m. Saturday Shorts 5 p.m. More Beautiful for Having Been Broken Freddie, (Cale Ferrin) an insightful child who lives with a chronic, terminal illness, charms three broken women. His single mother Samantha tries to cope by dancing, newcomer McKenzie runs, and Vivienne drinks. Each is isolated. Nothing but surrendering to passion, trusting in life, and receiving a greater love can fully help them move through their intertwined grief and loss. McKenzie (Zoe Ventoura) just wants to be left alone in the Northern California mountains to outrun the pain of losing her mother. Past betrayals keep Samantha (Kayla Radomski) tight and prickly, but flowing scenes of her dancing show her inner nature. The two women risk closeness, as wild card Vivienne (Harley Jane Kozak) must face a fractured relationship and a secret past. Ultimately Freddie is the catalyst who brings them all together, leading them to find new strength in their vulnerability. See a MoreBeautifulMovie.com for more.

September 2019 WWW.IONAZ.COM 69

7:30 p.m.

Sell By

This refreshing update to a romcom is about the lives (and loves) of seven career-driven pals in New York. At the core of this circle are Adam (Scott Evans) and Marklin (Augustus Prew). Though Adam dreams of making a name for himself in the visual art world, he settles for a “ghost painting” gig for Ravella Brewer (Patricia Clarkson) who passes his work off as hers. Meanwhile, Marklin’s fame as an Instagram influencer has outpaced his boyfriend’s modest salary. But beneath those photo filters Marklin deals with the pain of caring for an expartner who is dying. They find solace in family and friends who are dealing with professional and emotional issues of their own.

Sunday, October 13

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11:30 p.m.

Sunday Shorts

5:30 p.m.

Queering the Script

WWW.IONAZ.COM September 2019

Queerness on television has moved from subtext, in series such as Xena: Warrior Princess to all-out multi-season relationships between women, as seen on Buffy the Vampire Slayer, Lost Girl, and Carmilla. But things still aren’t perfect. In 2016, a record number of queer women died on fictional shows, launching a successful fight for better, more diverse LGTBQ representation. Stars such as Stephanie Beatriz, Lucy Lawless and Angelica Ross join with the voices of kickass fangirls in this fast-paced history of queer women’s representation of contemporary television. This documentary charts the evolution of queerness, and also demonstrates the impact of activism on its fans, ensuring that they see themselves accurately portrayed on screen. More Sunday feature films to be announced. Follow the Desperado Film Festival on Facebook for details. Get your tickets and find out more at DesperadoFilmFestival.com All showtimes and films are tentative. Paradise Valley Community College Center for Performing Arts, 18401 N. 32nd St. just off Union Hills Dr. in Phoenix

September 2019 WWW.IONAZ.COM 71

Your Guide to

Havasupai Falls Photography by: LeakedGlass Text by: Alex Campos Model: Alex Perez TLC once said don’t go chasing waterfalls, but I’ve always been quite a rebel. If you enjoy hiking in canyons, swimming in beautiful turquoise waters, and sleeping under the stars then this is the adventure for you! You’ll not only get to experience the famous Havasupai Falls but also Navajo Falls, Fifty Foot Falls, Mooney Falls, Beaver Falls, and much more. Guidelines, rules and regulations visiting this home of the Havasupai tribe’s reservation, and since this was my second time hiking this beauty, I’ve done all the work and research for you and I’m officially declaring myself your ION Arizona Tour Guide. And no, that gorgeous model in the photo isn’t me, its my new friend Alex Perez.

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Booking Your Reservation The hardest part is securing a reservation. But since 2017, you can now make camping reservations online. And as of 2019 all reservations should be online only, but lodge reservations are—as of this most recent expedition—still made by phone. We stayed at the newly remodeled lodge with indoor plumbing because… you know… indoor plumbing! I like my hot showers after all the dusty hiking and frolicking in the falls. You need to understand you’ll be hiking over ten miles; make sure you’re physically capable. Now you’re ready to make your hiking reservations through the canyon on tribal land at HavasupaiReservations.com Lodge: (928) 448-2111 or (928) 448-2201 Patience is a virtue when you’re trying to call and book the lodge. Unless you get lucky, you can be on the phone for a while waiting for someone to answer. Only a deposit is required when booking your appointment and the full payment is due at check-in.  Fees for 2020: $100 per person per weekday night $125 per person per weekend night (Friday/Saturday/ Sunday nights) ALL campground reservations are three nights / four days, meaning the total for each person can range from $300-$375  74

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Lodge reservations are $440 per room, per night and require a deposit of $100 per room per night. Rooms accommodate up to 4 people. New in 2020 is a $110 entrance/environmental fee charged per person. Average price for a two night stay for four people will run about $330. Prices include all permits, fees, taxes, and are non-negotiable, and are subject to change. Tips on scoring a permit  • Book as soon as possible, at least a year to a year and a half in advance • Look at weekday dates • Try the shoulder seasons (peak is May to August) • Join a hiking or outdoors groups (Leaders planning trips often post openings when cancellations occur within the group.) What to Pack Basic backpacking gear is recommended for Supai. If you’re only planning on staying in a tent, bring it, but if you have a hammock and are comfortable sleeping in one you can leave your tent behind. Important: check the weather forecast for possible rain. Research the supplies you’ll need. (I can’t do everything for you here!) I hope this initial guide will help your adventure. If you decide to go, enjoy your trip and have a blast at these magnificent falls! And if you need a veteran scout and tour guide, just reach out and I’m happy to join your crew!  

September 2019 WWW.IONAZ.COM 75

Photography By: Rafalogie Studio Art Direction By: Alex Campos Models: Jake Robert, Chris Wisniewski, and Khan Salman

Hole in the Rock Jake Robert 76

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Plateaux, high desert, forests, canyons, creeks, buttes, mesas, rivers and bluffs. Arizona has some of the most widely varied landscape in the nation. If you’re keen on the great outdoors, this is the state for you. You can find camping grounds if you want to get out of the big city, or you can take easy hikes right in your own hometown. ION Arizona readers shared their snapshots of some of their favorite places in Arizona. When someone tells you, “Take a hike,” you’ll know exactly where to go. September 2019 WWW.IONAZ.COM 77

A

B

Horseshoe Bend A: Marcus Childs

Antelope Canyon B: Gaston P. Rojas & Xavier Garcia

Grand Canyon C

C: Dennis Octavo - Eriksen D: Fontes Four Pack

D 78

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Wet Beaver Creek Chris Wisniewski

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Wet Beaver Creek Khan Salman

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A

B

D

C

E

OAK CREEK A: Andrew Rascon Fat Man’s Loop B: Joey Townsend & Nathan aka

“Carnita Asada”

Lava Tube Caves C: Dennis Octavo - Eriksen Grand Falls D: Keith Caplin, Joshua James &

Brandon Lang E: Alex Perez

September 2019 WWW.IONAZ.COM 81

A

B

Havasupai Falls A: Alejandro B & C: Jeremy Stratton & Joe Armijo

Spider Rock D: George Pavia

Sedona E: Sean Patrick Night F: Sergio Bustos & Joe Musso G: Jose Alcerreca. Jake Garza & Leo Pacano H: Antonio, Xavier, Diego, Richie, Jerome, Patrick, Andrew, Anthony, Alex & Josh.

C

D 82

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E

F

G

H September 2019 WWW.IONAZ.COM 83

A

Devil’s Bridge A: Marcus Childs B: Alejandro

Cibecque Falls C: Alex Perez

Prescott B

C 84

D: Ryan Santana & Zach Gignac

D

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E

F

Forest Lakes E: Angel, Tomas, Frank, Yvonne, Cristine, Jordan & Johnny.

Bartlett Lake F: Alexander, Robert, Aldo, Anthony, Antonio, John & Picho

G

Fossil Creek G: Prince Joshua September 2019 WWW.IONAZ.COM 85

PHX Murals A: Foofer Smith

Camelback MTN. B: Roopesh Seenarine & Will Martinez

A B

South Mountain Preserve C: Jackson Kelly

Weaver’s Needle D: Alejandro

C

D

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Jake Robert

Papago Park - Phoenix

BS West Industry Night (W)

Karamba Leather & Lace Party

The Rock Face Lift

Charlie’s Pipin’ Hot Thursdays (W)

Karamba Comic Con Night

27

The Anvil Red Hanky Party

Reid Park Tucson Pride The Anvil Gear Night

Cruisin 7th TGIF (W)

28 The Rock Rock Bottom

BS West Animal Crossing

Karamba Game Day Sports Party

21

FLEX Spa’s End of Summer Pool Party

Charlie’s Mexico Independence Weekend

14

The Rock 10 yrs of Barbra Seville Show

7

SATURDAY

SEPTEMBER 2019

BS West Formal Male Review (W)

Film Bar Burlesque

26

BS West Formal Male Review (W)

Cruisin 7th Cruisin Play Mates (W)

25

Dick’s Cabaret Cust. Appreciation Party

The Rock Face Lift

Charlie’s Blackout

Cruisin 7th TGIF (W)

Plazma Freaky Friday (W)

Roosevelt Row First Fridays (M)

Film Bar Southpark

20

13

6

FRIDAY

The Anvil Pup Night

19

Bar 1 Two for One (W)

Dick’s Cabaret WTF Wednesday (W)

18

Karamba Drag Cabaret

12

Charlie’s Pipin’ Hot Thursdays (W)

5

THURSDAY

Cruisin 7th Cruisin Play Mates (W)

11

I N PARTY CAM EVENTS • (W) WEEKLY EVENT

Charlie’s Undie Monday (W)

Cruisin’ 7th Sunday Extravaganza (W)

30

Charlie’s Karaoke (W)

Stacy’s @ Melrose Karaoke (W)

Cruisin’ 7th Sunday Extravaganza (W)

29

The Womack Bingo No She Didnt

Charlie’s Undie Monday (W)

24

Bar 1 Karaoke (W)

Bliss/ Rebar Taco Tuesday Trivia (W)

17

OZ Bar Pocker (W)

Charlie’s Karaoke (W)

Bar 1 Karaoke (W)

23

Cruisin’ 7th Tia’s Teasers (W)

Karamba Ruby’s El Grito Celebration

22

Stacy’s @ Melrose Karaoke (W)

BS West Industry Night (W)

Charlie’s Red Hot Mommas

16

Charlie’s Undie Monday (W)

The Rock Late Nite Snax

10

Dick’s Cabaret WTF Wednesday (W)

Bar 1 Karaoke (W)

Cruisin’ 7th Tia’s Teasers (W)

The Rock Rubye Moore

9

Film Bar La La Land

Bliss/ Rebar Taco Tuesday Trivia (W)

4

WEDNESDAY

Karamba Carnaval Latino

3

TUESDAY

Charlie’s Labor Day Show

2

MONDAY

Charlie’s Mexico Independence Weekend

15

8

1

SUNDAY

hydrat

DRINK & EVENT GUIDE

PHOENIX FRIDAY SATURDAY

SUNDAY

Anvil

DIRTY DADDY DANCERS 10pm HH $3 well/dom $2.50 pint 1-8pm

WILD MEN of the WEST 7:30pm HH $3 well/dom $2.50 pint 1-8pm

BEER BUST $3 Pitchers All Day HH $3 well/dom $2.50 pint 1-8pm

Bar 1

HH 10am-7pm

$2.75 Domestic Bottles 7pm-9pm

$1.50 Bud Light Drafts $2.75 Canned Beers ALL DAY

HH $2 OFF Well/Beer/ Select Apps/Wine/Prem.Spirits

Brunch Specials 10a-3p $12 Bubbly $6 Bloodys/Sangria

$12 Bubbly, $6 Bloodys 10a-3p 1/2 OFF Cock. 2-7pm KARAOKE 9p

Elements Show 10:30pm $5 Tito’s Handmade Vodka All Night

Buy 1 get 1 for $1. Go-Go Dancers, Extended Patios VIP

Sunday Funday KARAOKE 10p $2 doms - $3 Marys & Mimosas

2-4-1 8am-2pm HH 2pm-8pm $2.50 Miller Products 8pm-cl

2-4-1 8am-2pm HH 2pm-8pm $2.50 Bud Products 8pm-cl

FryBread w/ Joe Jackson 12p-9p JAZZ w/ Kenny Thames 7:30pm

$3 Pitch/2-4-1 Well-Dom 2-7pm $1 Draft 7pm-9pm $5 Crown 9-12a

$3 Pitch/2-4-1 Well/Dom 2-7pm $1 Well 7-9pm $3 D. Eddy 10-12a

Super Happy Hour 4-7pm $3.50 Pitch, Lg Isld, AMF’s Open-Cl

HH $2.75 Well/Dom 6am-8pm Espressa Grande 10:30pm

Dirty Daddy Dancers 4:30pm Lady Christian 10:30pm

HH $2.75 Well/Dom 6am-4pm TS Dancers 10:30pm

2-4-1 VIP & 50% off Cover 7-10pm

Off the Hook Tons of Prizes & Giveaways

2-4-1 Cover, Wristbands & VIP Dances

HH 3:30-6:30pm & 11pm-Close $2 OFF Apps / Well / Wine / Beer

$5 & $6 Big Brunch Drinks 10a-3p HH 3:30-6:30p & 11p-close

$5 & $6 Big Brunch Drinks 10a-3p HH 3:30-6:30p & 11p-close

Happy Hour Drink Specials 10:30am -6pm

Happy Hour Drink Specials 10am-6pm

Vaquero Fridays 9-11pm Reverse Happy Hour $3 Drinks

Top 40 Saturdays 9-11pm Reverse Happy Hour $3 Drinks

Top 40 Sundays Ruby Show $3 Pitchers Beer Bust

$3 Well & Dom Until 8pm $4 3 Olives & $3 Fireball Shots

HH $3 Well/Dom Btl/Drft 12/8pm All Male Revue 10pm

Football Sunday 7p $3.50 Dom Pitch, Mimosas & Bloody Marys

HH 2-4-1 Well & Dom 2-8pm KARAOKE 9pm Drag Show 10p

2-4-1 11a-7p KARAOKE 9p Barbra Seville Show10p

HH 2-4-1 Well & Dom. 11am-cl Drag Show 10p

HH 4-8pm $2.50 Rolling Rock $4.50 Pinnacle Flavors 8pm-Cl

HH 4-8pm $2.50 Rolling Rock $4.50 Firball 8pm-Cl

$2 Rolling Rock & Well open -7pm 7-10pm $2.50 Wells & Rolling Rock

Bliss/ReBar

BS West Bunkhouse Charlie’s Cruisin’ 7th

Dick’s Cabaret FEZ Hula’s

Karamba Plazma The Rock Stacy’s

W

TUCSON FRIDAY SATURDAY Hotel Congress

IBTS

Live Music on the Patio Tom Walbank 7p DJ Dirtyverbs 10p

Free Dance Party 10pm DJs Sid the Kid, BOBFelix & More!

Flawless Fridays with China Collins

Saturday Night Starrletts with Janee Starr

Br

Br

SUNDAY Br

Hot Club of Tucson 10:30pm Club KARAOKE 10pm 2-4-1 9p-Close KARAOKE

MONDAY

TUESDAY

Beards, boxers & Briefs $1 OFF HH $3 well/dom $2.50 pint 1-8pm

$2 Miller High Life & well vodka cocktails 8pm-close

2-4-1 WELL 8pm-close HH $3 well/dom $2.50 pint 1-8pm

KARAOKE 9pm HH $3 well/dom $2.50 pint 1-8pm

$1.25 Bud Light Drafts, $5.25 Martinis 7pm- Close

KARAOKE 9pm $3 well, dom bottle & drft

$6 Huge Long Islands

2-4-1 U-Call-It 10am-2am (except shots & pitchers) $4 Bellinis

HH ALL DAY $2 OFF Well/Beer/ Select Apps/Wine/Prem.Spirits

$3 OFF Taco Platters $6 Big Margaritas

20% OFF ENTIRE BILL (excludes discounted items)

$20 Any wine bottle $15 Any wine bottle w/ food purchase

HH Drink Specials

College Night 2 for $1 Go-Go Dancers - VIP

Thirst Trap w/ Men of BS $4 Heineken / $6 Absolut & Jager

2-4-1 8am-2pm HH 2pm-8pm Pool Tournament 9pm

2-4-1 8am-2pm HH 2pm-8pm Dart League 7:30pm

2-4-1 8am-2pm HH 2pm-8pm KARAOKE 9pm $3.75 L.I.

2-4-1 8am-2pm HH 2pm-8pm Undies/Leather night $1 Off

Underwear Party 8pm-Cl 50% off w/ your Pants Off $3 Jack

2-4-1 Open to Close KARAOKE 9:30pm

$5 Ketel One/Malibu $3.50 Dom Pitch $3 1800 Tequila 8pm-Close

2-4-1 All Cocktails & Beer Open-Close

HH $2.75 Well/Dom 6am-8pm TS Dancers 10:30pm

HH $2.75 Well/Dom 6am-8pm

Wasted Wednedays HH $2.75 Well/Dom ALL DAY

HH $2.75 Well/Dom 6am-8pm Wild Men of the West 10:30pm

Amateur Night Starts at 10pm

WTF Wednedays $5 Cover and almost everything else!

Thirsty Thursday $5 off Cover w/ ION AZ Ad

$5.55 BIG Margaritas ALL DAY HH 3:30-6:30p & 11p-close

$5.55 Classic Martinis ALL DAY HH 3:30-6:30p & 11p-close

$2 OFF Glasses of wine 50% OFF Bottles of wine

$5.55 BIG Signature Cocktails G Spot / O Spot / B Spot/ A Spot

Mysterdy Mondays $5 Mystery Cocktail/Shot

2 N’ 2 2 apps & 2 cocktails $25

All Night Happy Hour Regular Happy Hour all Night

Facebook/Twitter Special Text “Hulas” to 90210 after 6pm

Cumbia Night $3 Pitchers Karamba Girls Show

Urban Thursdays - Gigi DeMilo Show $3 Pitcher $3 Drinks

1/2 Priced Well and Beer

KARAOKE 9pm $3 Drinks / $3 Pitchers

WEDNESDAY

THURSDAY

HH 2-4-1 4-8pm $2 Well & $3 Domestic

HH 2-4-1 4-8pm $2 Well & $3 Domestic 9pm-Close

2-4-1 4-8pm Sinful Studs 9pm-Mid

HH 2-4-1 ALL DAY Beautiful Losers Comedy SHow

HH 2-4-1 Well & Dom 2-8pm KARAOKE 9pm

HH 2-4-1 Well & Dom 2-8pm

HH 2-4-1 Well & Dom 2-8pm Underwear Night

HH 2-4-1 Well & Dom 2-8pm Drag Show 10p

KARAOKE 9pm-Close HH All Day & $2.50 Rolling Rock

HH All Day $5 Martinis All Day & $3 Rolling Rock

2-4-1 4pm-Midnight Happy Hours Midnight- Close

HH ALL DAY Thursdays Only 2-4-1 from All Other Bars

MONDAY

TUESDAY

90s House Party 10pm w/ DJ Sid the Kid 90¢ PBR Br

3-4-1 Well Drinks 8p-Close KARAOKE

Geeks Who Drink Trivia Night 8pm

Br

Tequila & Mexican Beer ALL DAY

WEDNESDAY

THURSDAY

Live Music

Salvador Duran 7pm OPTI CLUB Dance Party 10pm

Viva La Diva Show with Diva

2-4-1 All Day Go Go Boys 11pm

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Br

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PHOENIX Address

Phone

1. Anvil

2424 E. Thomas Rd.

(602) 334-1462

2. Bar 1

3702 N. 16th St.

(602) 266-9001

3. Bliss/ReBar

901 N. 4th St.

(602) 795-1792

4. Boycott Bar

4301 N 7th Ave.

(602) 515-3667

5. BS West

7125 E. 5th Ave., Scottsdale

(480) 945-9028

6. Bunkhouse

4428 N 7th Ave.

(602) 200-9154

7. Caravan Taphouse

4835 N 15th Ave

(602) 274-7756

8. The Cash

1730 E McDowell Rd.

9. Charlie’s

727 W. Camelback Rd.

(602) 265-0224

10. Cruisn’ 7th

3702 N. 7th St.

(602) 212-9888

11. Dick’s Cabaret

3432 E. Illini Rd.

(602) 274-DICK

12. FEZ

105 W. Portland St

(602) 287-8700

13. Flex Spas Phoenix

1517 S. Black Canyon Hwy.

(602) 271-9011

14. Hula’s Modern Tiki

4700 N Central Ave # 122

(602) 265-8454

15. Karamba

1724 E. McDowell Rd.

(602) 254-0231

16. Kobalt

3110 N Central Ave. Park Central (602) 264-5307

17. Los Diablos

1028 E Indian School Rd.

18. NuTowne Saloon

5002 E Van Buren St.

(602) 253-0689

x

(602) 795-7881 (602) 267-9959

19. OZ Bar

1804 W. Bethany Home Rd.

20. Plazma

1560 E Osborn Rd.

x

21. The Rock

4129 N. 7th Ave.

22. Stacy’s @ Melrose

4343 N 7th Ave.

24. IBTs

(602) 266-0477

x

(602) 248-8559

TUCSON Address 23. Hotel Congress

(602) 242-5114

(602) 264-1700 Phone

x

311 E Congress St., Tucson

(520) 622-8848

x

616 N 4th Ave, Tucson

(520) 882-3053

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arlings, it’s mating season. And the roof rats you’ve been hearing on top ya house … well, they’re not the only ones in heat! This month’s Favorite Bitch® offers a cool touch to hot temperatures. Dear Favorite Bitch, I have a twin brother who’s also gay. I really like his own personal FWB so I pretended to be my twin so I could have sex with him. When he found out that I tricked him he totally freaked out! Now he’s threatening to go to the police! HELP! — Wyatt  Dear Hasn’t This Tired-Ass Scenario Played Out In Just About Every Gay Porno Film Since The Dinosaur Age, You might wanna stop helping his “case” and refrain from these tawdry confessionals. As far as the police are concerned ... LOL! Next time you go lookin’ to satisfy someone’s sweet tooth, try finding a dude who’s into Mr. Goodbar and not the other half of a Twix. Mi Amor, I can’t find a condom that fits me right.I’m on PrEP and always play safe, but I’m, like, 11 inches. Every brand I try is tight and uncomfortable. The Magnums aren’t doing the job! Any suggestions? 

Next time you decide to try on raincoats, direct message me pics … and I’ll let you know which one works the best! In the meantime, try SKYN Large by LifeStyles. Not only will it fit well, but there’s extra room to grow into. Unlike Magnum condoms, polyisoprene condoms remain soft and stretchy—even in the tightest peach pit! Yo Miss Tiger, Do you give sex advice to lesbians too? — Rhonda Dear The Closest I’ve Come To That … Was Rating The Filet-O’-Fish Sandwich on Reddit, I could’ve given your ass some advice right now … had you left a damn question! Dear Miss Tiger, My boyfriend left me because I can’t squeeze his eggplant while he’s topping me.Should I leave him? -Erik Dear Don’t Leave Just Yet, Stick around until your Kegel skills are tighter than an Uber passenger holding in a hateful fart! When you leave him, leave him at the emergency room with a cracked face and a busted dorsal vein of the penis.

The Miss Tiger Show Every Tuesday at 6 p.m. MST Live on MissTiger.com

— Eduardo

Advice Columnist • Radio Personality ... and everyone’s #FAVORITEBITCH

Dear THANK YOU For Wearing A Condom While Taking PrEP Unlike These Hoes Out Here Screwing Raw.

Website: MissTiger.com   Instagram/Twitter:  @MissTiger   Advice: Tiger@MissTiger.com  September 2019 WWW.IONAZ.COM 95

by Addison DeWitt

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hey say a way to a man’s heart is through his stomach. Well, if he’s gay it’s either that or through his butthole, too. Either works for me. Got food? Got men? With genitalia? I’m there!

Post feeding-frenzy I hobnobbed with (l-r) Trason Thode, Anthony Alfaro and Alexis Weston (E) who were tippling on the patio. Well, I simply had to join them. D

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Bliss-ReBAR inaugurated their “Brunch After Dark” to a sold out crowd with Kevin and Jackson David Kelly (A) on board has sexy maître d’s. Mya McKenzie and her drag daughter, the hostess Neveah (B), E both shook their tail feathers while I crammed the delicious poutine in my hole. The hole on top, that is. Clayton McKee and pistolpackin’, law enforcing tenderoni Ricardo Sanchez (C) watched in horror as I gobbled it all down. In between bites I was salivating over the appeteaser, Thor Junior (D) behind the bar with that darling little coquette I’ll call “Suzette” because I love Crêpes Suzette (hey, it’s better than calling her, say, Salisbury Steak and because, frankly, I couldn’t

remember her name because I couldn’t take my eyes off of Thor Junior. That’s just the way I am.) But I highly recommend the nighttime nosh at ReBAR—and the quens. Oh, and Thor Junior.

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I

Moving on to the next Chow Down ... Breakfast is the most important meal of the day, right? So I had strap on the ol’ feed bag again, this time for charity at Joe Gesullo and Stacy F Louis’ (F) annual Pancake Breakfast at Stacy’s @ Melrose. I was in Sausage Paradise! (You can take that any way you like.) The hunk at the breakfast bonanza gave me crabs! Of H the crustacean variety, that is. (G) Oh come on! You had to see that one coming. So predictable! The “Psycho but Cute” (I’m not finger-pointing. See her t-shirt.) JoJo Halko (H) kept the vodka flowing

Didn’t you ever notice how he smells like warm Skittles and waffle cones? He can make your dreams come true. With lots of glitter. (K)

J

like, well, vodka, and was ably assisted by the fantastic Hannah and that scrumptious Austin Breault (I). I paused to wipe the spittle off my chin to chat with my faves Dean Cassidy and Devin Reismiller (J). Fun Fact! Did you know that Devin is secretly a unicorn? It’s true!

K

My cholesterol-filled amd fat-packed heart went pitter-pat when I saw Trevor Thomas and his beau Christoff Francis with a hunky friend (L) ... I couldn’t keep my eyes off his hibiscus. (On his shirt, silly!) Had enough? I’m just gonna say, “‘Bye” with Felicia. (M)

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enus enters Libra on September 14 is the big news. This rules how we love and what we love. This has everyone feeling lusty. Have any meltdowns by September 18. Have three! Saturn Retrograde is over and all karmic debts are cleared! After months of stern rebukes since April. Take the initiative and walk through that emotional door. ¶ This month I see foggy news about money: debts, payments, credit, and loans. Good news: the New Moon on the 28th brings better money management. Don’t let financial uncertainty keep you from being generous. Tip that extra 50 cents. ARIES Mar. 21 - Apr. 20 Keep an open mind and you’ll discover something new and make some new friends. You need to compromise (and not just who’s on top or bottom). Avoid arguments. See? You’re arguing right now! TAURUS April. 21 - May 20 A new career opportunity comes your way. Expecting money? Don’t. A debt due is coming. Manage your nickels and dimes carefully or it’s Top Ramen all month long. GEMINI May 21 - June 21 Don’t make any hasty decisions, it’ll only complicates things, no thanks to Mars. We hate Mars. But we love Venus and Uranus because they make you more charming than usual. You’re pretty charming anyway.

VIRGO Aug. 23 - Sep. 22 There’s nothing that says you have to agree with everyone about everything. Say “No!” once in a while. Stick up for yourself, bitch! Birthday Virgos take this time to show everyone you’re on top of things. Goal: earthly pleasures. Get some. LIBRA Sep. 23 - Oct. 22 A weight on your shoulders is lifted and your friends help out. Uranus makes you impatient. Birthday Libras need to get back in the saddle. With everything. You finish up a stalled project. It’s about time! SCORPIO Oct. 23 - Nov.23 You’re going to win a prize! Get a trophy! Get flowers delivered! Just sit on your butt and stuff just happens for you. Take a few deep breaths, though; an impulse buy might not be the right thing. SAGITTARIUS Nov. 23 - Dec. 23 Although everything looks naturally easy for you to everybody, but there’s a lot of personal growth others won’t notice. You surprise everyone around you but they don’t know why. You know why: It’s because you’re naturally fabulous. CAPRICORN Dec. 23 - Jan. 20 All that emotional baggage you’ve been carrying is in the past. (Oops! Was I not supposed to tell? Cat’s outta the bag now!) It’s a good thing, because love is all around and people appreciate you.

CANCER June 22 - July 22 Embrace the unknown. This takes a huge leap of faith, but trust the stars (but not Mercury) because an opportunity out there will allow for growth. Just remember to use your words. Carefully.

AQUARIUS Jan. 21 - Feb. 19 Mars charges you up with energy, but it could make you aggressive. Do something to let off some steam, so throw a party! And you’re always the life of the party. Bonus: You’re compensated for any recent failures. Not that you’re a loser.

LEO July 23 - Aug. 22 Saturn made everything about Rules and Discipline (but no bondage) but it moves out of retrograde on the 18th. You’ve been struggling with daily routine but crack the whip and everything falls into place.

PISCES Feb. 20 - Mar. 20 You absolutely, positively, really need to take charge. In everything. Work, life, family, bed ... everything. Show everyone you’re not a pushover. Do not compromise. Then get a massage. And go shopping.

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