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ISSUE V7-48 | Nov 29, 2023

DON’T MISS ATLANTA’S FAVORITE HOLIDAY FUNDRAISER

TOY PARTY

Monday-Wednesday 10:00AM-10:00PM Thursday 10:00AM-11:00PM Friday-Saturday 9:00AM-11:00PM Sunday 11:00AM-8:00PM

#1 PRESCRIBED HIV TREATMENT*

*Source: IQVIA NPA Weekly, 04/19/2019 through 01/20/2023.

ELIAS SWITCHED TO BIKTARVY

Listen to REAL STORIES being told by REAL VOICES.

No matter where life takes you, Because HIV doesn’t change who you are.

BIKTARVY® is a complete, 1-pill, once-a-day prescription medicine used to treat HIV-1 in certain adults. BIKTARVY does not cure HIV-1 or AIDS.

Ask your healthcare provider if BIKTARVY is right for you.

People featured take BIKTARVY and are compensated by Gilead.

IMPORTANT FACTS FOR BIKTARVY®

This is only a brief summary of important information about BIKTARVY® and does not replace talking to your healthcare provider about your condition and your treatment. (bik-TAR-vee)

MOST IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT BIKTARVY

BIKTARVY may cause serious side e ects, including:

 Worsening of hepatitis B (HBV) infection. Your healthcare provider will test you for HBV. If you have both HIV-1 and HBV, your HBV may suddenly get worse if you stop taking BIKTARVY. Do not stop taking BIKTARVY without ﬁrst talking to your healthcare provider, as they will need to check your health regularly for several months, and may give you HBV medicine.

ABOUT BIKTARVY

BIKTARVY is a complete, 1-pill, once-a-day prescription medicine used to treat HIV-1 in adults and children who weigh at least 55 pounds. It can either be used in people who have never taken HIV-1 medicines before, or people who are replacing their current HIV-1 medicines and whose healthcare provider determines they meet certain requirements.

BIKTARVY does not cure HIV-1 or AIDS. HIV-1 is the virus that causes AIDS.

Do NOT take BIKTARVY if you also take a medicine that contains:

 dofetilide

 rifampin

 any other medicines to treat HIV-1

POSSIBLE SIDE EFFECTS OF BIKTARVY

BIKTARVY may cause serious side e ects, including:

 Those in the “Most Important Information About BIKTARVY” section.

 Changes in your immune system. Your immune system may get stronger and begin to ﬁght infections that may have been hidden in your body.

Tell your healthcare provider if you have any new symptoms after you start taking BIKTARVY.

 Kidney problems, including kidney failure. Your healthcare provider should do blood and urine tests to check your kidneys. If you develop new or worse kidney problems, they may tell you to stop taking BIKTARVY

 Too much lactic acid in your blood (lactic acidosis), which is a serious but rare medical emergency that can lead to death. Tell your healthcare provider right away if you get these symptoms: weakness or being more tired than usual, unusual muscle pain, being short of breath or fast breathing, stomach pain with nausea and vomiting, cold or blue hands and feet, feel dizzy or lightheaded, or a fast or abnormal heartbeat.

 Severe liver problems, which in rare cases can lead to death. Tell your healthcare provider right away if you get these symptoms: skin or the white part of your eyes turns yellow, dark “tea-colored” urine, light-colored stools, loss of appetite for several days or longer, nausea, or stomach-area pain.

 The most common side e ects of BIKTARVY in clinical studies were diarrhea (6%), nausea (6%), and headache (5%).

These are not all the possible side e ects of BIKTARVY. Tell your healthcare provider right away if you have any new symptoms while taking BIKTARVY.

You are encouraged to report negative side e ects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit www.FDA.gov/medwatch or call 1-800-FDA-1088.

Your healthcare provider will need to do tests to monitor your health before and during treatment with BIKTARVY.

Continued on next page.

Please see Important Facts, including important warnings, continued on the next page and at BIKTARVY.com.

Meet a few of the extraordinary people who take BIKTARVY. Watch their stories at BIKTARVY.com

BEFORE TAKING BIKTARVY

Tell your healthcare provider if you:

 Have or have had any kidney or liver problems, including hepatitis infection.

 Have any other health problems.

 Are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. It is not known if BIKTARVY can harm your unborn baby. Tell your healthcare provider if you become pregnant while taking BIKTARVY.

 Are breastfeeding (nursing) or plan to breastfeed. Do not breastfeed. HIV-1 can be passed to the baby in breast milk.

Tell your healthcare provider about all the medicines you take:

 Keep a list that includes all prescription and over-the-counter medicines, antacids, laxatives, vitamins, and herbal supplements, and show it to your healthcare provider and pharmacist.

 BIKTARVY and other medicines may a ect each other. Ask your healthcare provider and pharmacist about medicines that interact with BIKTARVY, and ask if it is safe to take BIKTARVY with all your other medicines.

HOW TO TAKE BIKTARVY

Take BIKTARVY 1 time each day with or without food.

GET MORE INFORMATION

 This is only a brief summary of important information about BIKTARVY. Talk to your healthcare provider or pharmacist to learn more.

 Go to BIKTARVY.com or call 1-800-GILEAD-5.

 If you need help paying for your medicine, visit BIKTARVY.com for program information.

Unwrap the Love A Holi�Gay Gift Guide for the Nice List�

Tis the season to be extra fabulous, darlings! If you’ve been strutting your stuff on the nice list, congratulations, you gorgeous creature! As we embrace the holiday spirit, it’s time to treat yourself or your equally fabulous friends to gifts that scream, “I’m here, I’m queer, and my gifts are fabulous, dear!” So, grab a cup of cocoa, put on your coziest holiday sweater, and let’s dive into a Holi-Gay Gift Guide that’s perfect for spreading cheer and glitter to all the LGBTQ+ hearts out there.

Genius In a Lamp

The clever Berger lamps will deodorize the air while effectively eradicating bacteria with its patented system of burning the fragranced oil through the catalytic stone – and the lamp itself looks like a cologne bottle!

Cushioned Feet

Lampe Berger Prisme Black Lamp, $68

Feeling Lush

The deeply restorative body lotion from Saltair will make your skin supple with a blend of hyaluronic acid and niacinamide, The fragrance will also leave your skin lightly scented with notes of palm leaves and pear.

Saltair Lush Greens Body Lotion, $14

These super soft and durable crew socks are knit with alpaca ﬁber, which is naturally thermoregulating, moisture wicking and odor resistant. Pacas 4 Pack Men’s Crew Socks, $80

Skin Boost for the Holidays

Not only isd this an excellent moisturizer but the slight tint of the formula makes your skin appear even smoother and even-toned without a trace of makeup.

DRMTLGY

Universal Tinted

Moisturizer SPF 46, $28

Beanie, Baby!

Like your favorite blanket, but for your head. Made of dense acrylic to keep your head warm but still letting it

breathe.

YEAHBUZZY Lodge Beanie Gold, $33

For the Getaway

You probably already have fabulous luggage – but what about the ultimate organizer for the insdie of that luggage? Away’s amazing packing cubes helps you organize and compress all of your belonings, not only f or the trip but for the duration of your trip. Away Packing cubes, $65

Bejeweled Pride

Automic Gold is a queer-owned company that makes gorgeous jewelry to ﬁt the whole rainbow. One of their strokes of genius is the custom letter feature that lets you make necklaces, earrings, bracelets, rings, and

more however you want. Truly a personalized present. (Shown Here) Automic Custom Letter Necklace, $695

Inviting Scent

A well-balanced scent will make you lean in closer for an extra sniff – so why not encourage that with a viral fragrance that blends cedar and sandalwood notes with coconut water and bergamot.

Practically irresistible!

Offcourt Coconut + Sandalwood Eau de Toilette, $45

For the Tech-Savvy Explorer

The rugged and highly capable Apple Watch Ultra 2 is not only goodlooking but a severe upgrade to your Apple Watch game. Built for the true explorers of this world, this watch can accompany you on your and wildest adventures. Apple Watch Ultra 2, from $799

Photos by: Russ Bowen-Youngblood

Celebrating 20 Years of Pu ing Smiles on Children’s Faces

By Mikkel Hyldebrandt

The annual Toy Party fundraiser, orchestrated by the philanthropic powerhouse For The Kid In All Of Us, has become synonymous with holiday cheer, compassion, and unwavering dedication to a noble cause. This year marks a signiﬁcant milestone as the organization joyously celebrates its 20th anniversary, two decades of unwavering commitment to making a positive impact in the lives of children.

Since its inception in 2003, For The Kid In All Of Us has remained steadfast in its mission to provide joy, comfort, and a sense of normalcy to children facing adversity. By collecting toys and raising funds to purchase toys, For The and thousands of toys to children all over Atlanta. As the city prepares for another magical evening of giving, let’s delve into the impressive numbers and facts that underscore the profound success and enduring spirit of this remarkable nonproﬁt. From the amount raised to the countless smiles ignited, the Toy Party stands as a testament to the community’s collective ability to make a meaningful difference in the lives of those who need it most.

Kid has distributed thousands

Over 20 years, FTK has collected and distributed more than 72,000 toys.

The Toy Party draws in over 1,000 guests per year.

For the Kid in All of Us collaborates closely with numerous agencies and organizations with significant community impact.

* In 2003, a close circle of friends spearheaded by City Councilman Alex Wan set out to make a meaningful difference in our community by forming For the Kid in All of Us (FTK).

* FTK’s efforts led to the production of the Annual Toy Party, a holiday toy drive benefiting children throughout Metro Atlanta. This small, private event quickly became one of Atlanta’s staple holiday gatherings.

* Over the years, the Toy Party has had several homes, including the Atlanta Train Depot, Atlanta Apparel Mart, Opera and Wimbish Mansion, and for the past three years, the Biltmore Ballrooms.

* The board of For The Kid is made up of community members that collectively make the fundraisers Backpack in the Park and Toy Party happen. There are currently 17 board members in total.

Currently, FTK is benefiting more than 20 regional beneficiaries.

For The Kid relies on the support of donors, sponsors, board members, and volunteers.

More than 300 people have served on the board over the past 20 YEARS.

The highest-earning single item at the Toy Party Silent Auction was a travel package, including first-class tickets and accommodations to San Miguel. It sold for $10,500.

Thank you to the Atlanta community for your support, so we can continue to brighten the lives of Metro Atlanta’s kids in need.

Commemorating World AIDS Day 2023

By Mikkel Hyldebrandt

Every December 1st, the global community observes World AIDS Day, a momentous occasion to reflect on the progress made in the fight against HIV/AIDS, honor those we’ve lost, and renew our commitment to ending the epidemic. As we approach World AIDS Day 2023, this year’s commemoration holds special significance, marked by two transformative events that amplify the importance of remembrance, education, and collective action.

Illuminations at the High Frequency Friday Event

New York-based artist Jordan Eagles sets the stage for a profound World AIDS Day experience with his site-speciﬁc installation and activation titled “Illuminations” as part of the High Museum’s December High Frequency Friday event. Eagles has partnered with Positive Impact Health centers, which will also be present at the event to promote their services. This visionary artist creates an immersive environment and a participatory photography set, urging visitors to delve into their personal histories and confront the enduring impact of HIV/AIDS.

For the past decade, Eagles has harnessed the power of art to advocate for equality and evidencebased policies. His unique approach involves using blood donated by members of the LGBTQIA+ community—many of whom are on PrEP or are HIV+ and undetectable. The blood is meticulously preserved in resin panels, permanently capturing the organic material’s colors and textures. These panels are then placed on analog overhead projectors, casting a mesmerizing, light-based environment.

“Illuminations” transcends traditional art by inviting visitors not only to witness the beauty of the artwork but to actively engage in the commemoration. Attendees have the opportunity to sit for a portrait with the artist on a limited, first-come-first-serve basis. Moreover, they are encouraged to document their experience by taking photos with friends and fellow visitors, fostering dialogues that extend beyond the confines of the exhibition space. This immersive installation transforms commemoration into a participatory act, creating a space for shared reflections and inspiring individual actions that resonate far beyond the gallery walls.

Date: December 1, 2023

Time: 6-10 pm

Venue: High Museum of Art

Link: high.org/event/december-high-frequency-friday-2/

The Men Engagement Network of AID Atlanta: Uniting for a Healthy Future

Simultaneously, the Men Engagement Network of AID Atlanta is set to host a thought-provoking and engaging event on December 1st. This program, meticulously designed to engage, educate, and inspire people from all walks of life, encompasses the State of HIV/AIDS in Georgia, a Community Showcase, Candlelight Remembrance Ceremony, and special recognition and presentations to entities making signiﬁcant contributions to the cause.

Among those recognized are Northside, Joining Hearts, Kimberly-Clark, POWER Atlanta, and the Front Runners Atlanta Pride Run. These organizations and individuals embody the spirit of collaboration, working together to create a world free from shame and stigma associated with HIV/ AIDS.

Tim Webb, Event Co-Producer, expresses the belief that collective action is the key to creating a world free from shame and stigma surrounding HIV/AIDS. The World AIDS Day Program provides a platform for unity, learning, and taking action. Admission to this impactful event is free, but ticket reservations are required in advance due to the anticipated maximum capacity.

Date: December 1, 2023

Time: 6 pm - 9 pm

Venue: Midtown Collective at Huff Trail, 1429 Fairmount Road NW, Suite N, Atlanta, GA 30318

Link: MENWorldAIDSDay2023.eventbrite.com

As we navigate the complexities of the ongoing HIV/ AIDS crisis, these two events stand as beacons of hope, urging us to unite, learn, and take action. The intersection of art and community engagement ampliﬁes the impact of our collective efforts, emphasizing that, together, we can overcome the challenges that persist and strive towards a future where HIV/AIDS is a relic of the past.

Photos by: Russ Bowen-Youngblood

BARS & CLUBS

MIDTOWN

BLAKE’S ON THE PARK blakesontheparkatlanta.com 227 10th St NE

BULLDOGS 893 Peachtree St NE

FRIENDS NEIGHBORHOOD BAR friendsonponce-atl.com 736 Ponce De Leon Ave NE

MY SISTER’S ROOM mysistersroom.com 66 12th St NE

X MIDTOWN xmidtown.com 990 Piedmont Ave NE

THE T modeltatlanta.com 465 Boulevard SE

CHESHIRE

HERETIC hereticatlanta.com 2069 Cheshire Bridge Road

BJ ROOSTERS bjroosters.com 2043 Cheshire Bridge Road NE

WESTSIDE

MARQUETTE 868 Joseph E. Boone Blvd NW

840ATL 840 Joseph E. Boone Blvd NW

ANSLEY

ATLANTA EAGLE 1492 Piedmont Ave NE

FELIX’S 1510 Piedmont Ave NE

THE HIDEAWAY 1544 Piedmont Ave NE

MIXX mixxatlanta.com 1492 Piedmont Ave NE

OSCAR’S oscarsatlanta.com 1510 Piedmont Ave NE

WOOFS woofsatlanta.com 494 Plasters Ave NE

EAST ATLANTA, GRANT PARK & EDGEWOOD

MARY’S marysatlanta.com 1287 Glenwood Ave SE

SISTER LOUISA’S CHURCH sisterlouisaschurch. com 466 Edgewood Ave SE DINING MIDTOWN

CASA ALMENARA 991 Piedmont Ave NE casa-almenara.com

HENRY’S henrysatl.com

132 10th St NE

LA HACIENDA lahaciendamidtown. com 900 Monroe Dr NE

TUK TUK THAI FOOD LOFT TUKTUKATL.COM 1745 Peachtree Rd NW

DEKALB

LIPS ATLANTA atldragshow.com 3011 Buford Hwy NE

RETAIL

MIDTOWN

BARKING LEATHER AFTER DARK barkingleather.com 1510 Piedmont Ave NE

CHESHIRE

SOUTHERN NIGHTS VIDEO 2205 Cheshire Bridge Rd NE

ANSLEY

BOY NEXT DOOR MENSWEAR boynextdoormenswear.com 1000 Piedmont Ave NE, Ste A

GCB & PLEASURES brushstrokesatlanta. com 1510-D Piedmont Ave. NE FITNESS

MIDTOWN

URBAN BODY FIT-

NESS urbanbody tness. com

500 Amsterdam Ave N

CHESHIRE GRAVITEE FITNESS graviteeatl.com 2201 Faulkner Rd NE

SPAS/BATHS

ADULT

FLEX SPA exspas.com 76 4th St NW

We all have those moments of ‘wait, did they just say that?’ Lucky for you, we compile the best of the best right here on this page. Want to join in on the b*tch session? Submit your own nuggets to info@davidatlanta.com.

Sarcasm: the witty will have fun, but the stupid won’t get it.

I’m more like an anti-stalker, so I will learn people’s routines in order to avoid them.

Gays will have social anxiety but will have sex in public.

Maybe instead of healing, I will be a whore.