David Magazine v8_i15 | Give It Your ALL

V8-15 04.10.24

Deep Inside Queer Hollywood

Pride Journey: Las Vegas

Santos CREEPS Away From the GOP

+ Photos & More

Awesome Food & Drink Specials 7 Days a Week!

770.803.9990

Serving a Spirit of Tradition Craft Beers, Spirits, and fun 7 days a week!

WWW.ZUCCAPIZZA.COM

2860 Atlanta Road Smyrna GA 30080

Tacos T a co s & Tequila Tequila

Eat, Drink, Gather

Your Neighborhood Taco Stand 678-842-0050 6 78-842-0050 2860 Atlanta Rd. Smyrna GA 30080 www.thecornertaqueria.com

3280 Peachtree Road NE Atlanta, GA 30305 www.industrytavern.com

DAVID I N

08

T H I S

12

I S S U E

18

27 ONLINE

davidatlanta.com

PRINT

At Distribution Points Across the City

APR 10, 2024 V8-15

DAVID Magazine Peach Media 6050 Dawson Blvd, Ste O Norcross, GA 30093

MANAGING PARTNER PUBLISHER & OPERATIONS Brian Sawyer brian@davidatlanta.com

EDITORIAL & SOCIAL MEDIA Editor-in-Chief Mikkel Hyldebrandt mikkel@davidatlanta.com

SALES | EVENTS

Josh King Josh@peachatl.com

Russ Bowen-Youngblood info@davidatlanta.com

CONTRIBUTORS Russ Bowen-Youngblood Romeo San Vicente Joey Amato D’Ann Witkowski

NATIONAL AD REP Rivendell Media 908.232.2021

SOCIAL FB: davidatlantamag

IG: @davidatlantamag

The content of DAVID Magazine is for your general information and use only. It is subject to change without notice. The opinions expressed by any writer, advertiser, or other person appearing in DAVID Magazine are not necessarily those of this publication, its management or staff. The information and materials appearing in the magazine are not guaranteed or warranted as to accuracy, timeliness, performance, completeness, or suitability of the information and materials found or offered for a particular purpose. It shall be your responsibility to ensure that any products, services, or information available through DAVID Magazine meets your specific requirements. DAVID Magazine is not responsible for claims made by advertisers, content of information, changes, events, and schedules. The magazine contains information and material which is owned by or licensed to DAVID Magazine, including but not limited to articles, advertisements, design, layout, graphics, and logos. No part or portion of DAVID Magazine may be reproduced in any way without the prior written consent of the publisher.

Unauthorized use of DAVID Magazine may give rise to claims for damages and or criminal offenses. Your use of the information or materials in DAVID Magazine is strictly at your own risk.

Willes Heaven and Hell Birthday @BJ Roosters More (& larger) online at davidatlanta.com

Photos by: Russ Bowen-Youngblood

Pride Journey:

Las Vegas

By Joey Amato Photos: PR, Joey Amato

Las Vegas, known for its vibrant and inclusive atmosphere, embraces LGBTQ culture with open arms, making it a thriving hub for the community.

Iconic events like the annual Las Vegas Pride Parade and Festival bring together people from all walks of life to celebrate diversity and unity. Las Vegas Pride is typically in early October so start planning now.

The city’s commitment to inclusivity is reflected in the diverse range of LGBTQ-friendly accommodations, ensuring that visitors feel welcome and respected. Beyond the nightlife, Las Vegas hosts a variety of LGBTQ-focused community organizations, support groups, and cultural events that contribute to the rich tapestry of the city’s inclusive ethos. Whether exploring the famous entertainment offerings or participating in community-driven initiatives, LGBTQ individuals and allies alike find a warm and accepting home in the vibrant tapestry of LGBTQ culture in Las Vegas.

Ever since I was young, I have always wanted to stay at Bellagio. Their iconic foundations have fascinated me for decades. The hotel stands as an epitome of luxury and sophistication, offering an unparalleled experience that seamlessly blends opulence, entertainment, and fine dining. From the moment you step into the grand lobby, it’s evident that Bellagio is committed to providing a world-class stay, especially when you glance at the ambiance that strikes a perfect balance between sophistication and conviviality. ceiling adorned with Chihuly glass sculptures.

I stayed in a recently renovated room in the Spa LPM’s interior is a visual feast, adorned with chic Tower with an unobstructed view of the Vegas decor, warm lighting, and an intimate atmosphere. strip and the fountains. The attention to detail is The combination of contemporary design elements evident in the tasteful decor, plush furnishings, and and classic French accents creates a welcoming modern amenities. Beginning at 3pm on weekdays space that feels both elegant and comfortable. and noon on weekends, the choreographed water Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or show set against the backdrop of the Las Vegas seeking a romantic dinner, LPM’s ambiance sets Strip is a mesmerizing display of artistry, combining the stage for an unforgettable dining experience. music, light, and water in perfect harmony. It sets the tone for the exquisite experiences that await LPM’s menu is a culinary triumph, highlighting the rich and diverse flavors of the French Riviera. within Bellagio.

The emphasis on fresh, high-quality ingredients Bellagio is also home to the famous Conservatory is evident in every dish. We began our meal with and Botanical Gardens, a lush oasis that a variety of appetizers, including the Yellowtail undergoes seasonal transformations, displaying Carpaccio, Escargots, and their signature Burrata stunning floral displays and thematic installations. prepared with heritage tomatoes and basil and This botanical escape provides a serene contrast topped with white truffles. For our main courses, to the lively atmosphere of the casino and the we decided to focus on seafood entrees, so we bustling Strip. During our stay, the staff were tried the Lobster Risotto and grilled Chilean Bass. completing their new Springtime exhibition, which Both were prepared to perfection and paired very well together if you are looking to share entrees. gave us Alice in Wonderland vibes.

For those seeking entertainment, Bellagio offers Of course, one of the biggest attractions of the spectacular “O” by Cirque du Soleil, a water- Las Vegas is the strip itself. Spend a few hours themed extravaganza that complements the meandering through each hotel and taking in the hotel’s overall theme. Bellagio Gallery of Fine Art Vegas vibe. There is no other place in the world is another cultural gem within the hotel, featuring quite like it. rotating exhibitions that display masterpieces from If you are in the mood for a little adventure, head around the world. to Area15, located about 10 minutes from the strip.

Although it is possible to never leave the Area15 is an immersive entertainment complex hotel, we wanted to experience other MGM that blends art, technology, and entertainment Resorts properties, so we headed to LPM at the in a unique and captivating way. Boasting an Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas for dinner. LPM offers otherworldly exterior and a dynamic interior, Area15 an exquisite dining experience that effortlessly is home to a variety of innovative experiences, marries Mediterranean charm with the vibrant including interactive art installations and virtual energy of the Strip. From the moment you step reality adventures. Its anchor tenant, the Meow through the entrance, you are greeted by an Wolf’s Omega Mart, is a surreal supermarket-

with the Beet Steak Tartare, which was incredible.

Next came the bluefin tuna Ceviche served over coconut crushed ice. For our entrees we tried the Trout Meuniere, which was served in a lemon and caper sauce, as well as the Lobster Thermidor with lobster waffles…yes, you read that correctly. It was as delicious as it sounds.

Save room for the dessert cart which contains innovative creations that satisfy the sweet tooth.

Whether you’re a fan of nostalgic flavors or simply seeking a unique and enjoyable meal, Retro by Voltaggio is worth the visit.

After dinner, catch a performance of Michael Jackson “ONE” by Cirque du Soleil also at Mandalay Bay. The show is a captivating tribute to the King of Pop that seamlessly blends the magic like environment filled with mind-bending art and of Cirque du Soleil with the timeless music and hidden mysteries. The venue also hosts concerts iconic choreography of Michael Jackson. From the and live events including Beyond Brunch, a variety moment the lights dim to the final bow, the show show hosted by drag queen extraordinaire Andrew is a high-energy, emotionally charged celebration Ryan. The 2-hour spectacle includes a wonderful of the legendary entertainer’s life and legacy. This buffet and performances by talented acts ranging isn’t your typical Cirque du Soleil show and is more from hoop dancers to Cirque-style entertainers.

The show is well worth the price of admission; it is not your typical drag brunch.

Spend the afternoon touring Area15 or head to The Sphere, Las Vegas’ newest concert venue. Rock icons U2 opened the venue with a 40-night run, but guests can purchase tickets to Darren Aronofsky’s multisensory film Postcard from Earth.

For a trip down memory lane, especially if you are in you were born in the 70s or 80s, check out Retro

by Voltaggio at Mandalay Bay. The restaurant owned by Top Chef stars, Bryan and Michael Voltaggio, takes diners on a nostalgic journey through time, blending modern culinary techniques with comforting flavors reminiscent of classic American dishes set in a retro-chic environment.

The space is adorned with quirky memorabilia, neon accents, and a colorful palette that captures a sense of nostalgia without feeling overly kitschy, creating a welcoming environment for diners to unwind and enjoy the culinary adventure.

like a concert featuring all of Michael’s greatest Retro by Voltaggio’s menu is a playful exploration hits, memorable dance moves, and state-of-the-art of classic American favorites. We started our dinner production. I felt like “ONE” is the type of concert with the Deviled Eggs with smoked trout roe along Michael would have wanted to perform if he were still with us.

The thing I like most about Vegas is it is always evolving. Every time you visit, there is something new to see or do. Viva Las Vegas!

C L I NI C AL

Clinical HIV care in a supportive, confidential, and gender affirming environment. Available at three Centers located in Duluth, Decatur, and Marietta.

Now offering Injectable HIV treatment.

positive

impact healthcenters.org

Deep Inside Queer Hollywood

By Romeo San Vicente March 2024 Photos: Debby Wong, PR

Marco Calvani’s feature film, “High Tide,” which took its U.S. bow recently at the South

By Southwest Film Festival. The romantic drama stars queer actor Marco Pigossi as a Brazilian immigrant finding his way in a strange land full of carefree people on vacation, and the unexpected romance he finds blooming with an African American nurse. It’s queer indie through and through — think themes of loneliness and isolation while everyone around you is dancing to house music and doing shots — with a cast that includes up-and-comer James Bland as well as “Tangerine” star Mya Taylor and the legendary Marisa Tomei. Look for this one to hit streaming or your friendly neighborhood arthouse sometime in the near future.

Russell Tovey Is a Conflicted Queer Cop In ʻPlainclothes’ The history of the LGBTQ+ community and its relationship to the police is a fraught one, embedded with generations of trauma, injustice and punishment, from well before the Stonewall riots to the present day. And that’s the backdrop for the new feature film from writer-director Carmen Emmi, “Plainclothes,” a period 1990s-set drama, inspired by true events, about an undercover police officer tasked with entrapping and arresting queer men. Russell Tovey (“Feud: Capote vs. The Swans”) stars as the cop who finds himself attracted to one of the men (Tom Blyth, “The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes”) that he arrests.

Obviously, existential and career conflict ensues, and that’s just the fallout for the guy who didn’t wind up in jail. It begins shooting Get Ready for The ʻJerrod Carmichael in Syracuse, New York, soon, so keep an eye Reality Show’ out for it.

The perpetually low-key stand-up comic/ actor Jerrod Carmichael has had a fascinating Elliot Page Producing Cheerleading past few years. He came out on a stand-up Drama ʻBackspot’ special, co-starred in the Oscar-nominated “Bring It On” fans, you need a little more film “Poor Things,” and now he’s doing serious drama in your cheerleader-movie- reality TV. OK, his version of it, anyway. No loving life, and Elliot Page is here to deliver stranger to turning the camera on himself for it. He’s producing the film “Backspot,” a short personal documentaries, Carmichael queer cheerleading-centered film from is gearing up for “Jerrod Carmichael Reality writer Joanne Sarazen and non-binary Show,” where he’ll investigate the nature director D.W. Waterson. It stars rising talent of speaking truth in front of an audience.

Devery Jacobs — so wonderful in the great Included in the just-dropped trailer are a series “Reservation Dogs” — as an ambitious previously unseen boyfriend, a masked cheerleader, and Evan Rachel Wood as her friend with a secret identity who challenges very demanding coach. Further plot details him about the production of the special itself aren’t currently known, but according to (our guess: Bo Burnham), and some heartadvance word this is a complex queer story bruising glimpses at family conversations, that detours from the norm and pushes one of which involves his mother praying for boundaries, and that’s always welcome God to take away Carmichael’s queerness. It news. It’s shooting right now, which probably drops very soon — March 29 — on HBO and means a 2025 release.

Max. International Queer Cinema Alert!

What happens when an undocumented South Romeo San Vicente will pray for you, bless American gay man finds himself in the North your heart.

American queer mecca of Provincetown?

That’s the premise of Brazilian filmmaker

KINK DOWN SOUTH ATL, GA.

JUNE 7-9, 2024 Photo: David Clifton-Strawn

WEEKEND PASS $105

FESTIVAL FUN • VENDORS DEMOS • CLASSES COMMUNITY

EVENTS PARTIES • PLAY PRIZES • CONTESTS

KDSWFOER MORE INFO: EKEND .C O M

PRESENTED BY

DI

BO HOST BAR

SPONSORS

ME

O LC

ES

L AL

WE

George Santos Creeps Away From the Republican Party

By D’Anne Witkowski Photos: U.S. Congress/congree.gov

Oh, hey, everybody. How are things going? Are they falls for everything. I am officially suspending perfect and great? Why, yes. Yes they are. my petitioning in #NY0 to access the ballot as a First of all, everybody’s favorite pathologically Republican and will be filling [sic] to run as an lying gay George Santos is running for office again, independent,” Santos posted on X March 24. “I will because of course he is. You may remember that take my Ultra MAGA/Trump supporting values to Santos previously represented New York’s Third the ballot in November as an Independent.” Santos Congressional District on Long Island until the U.S. then gives a shout-out to LaLota and potential house voted to expel his ass. Why did they expel Democratic challenger John Avlon saying, “I’ll see him? So, so many reasons. you boys in November!”

“He had been caught in numerous lies about his Now, Santos is absolutely right that the Republican education, work experience and more, and had Party “stands for nothing and falls for everything.” been indicted for various crimes, such as fraud, What he is not right about is that George Santos conspiracy, and falsifying records (he has pleaded running as an Independent for Congress will in not guilty to all the charges),” The Advocate reports. any way fix that. With luck he will pull votes away “Also, a detailed investigation by the House Ethics from Lakota and help Avlon or whoever wins the Committee uncovered extensive evidence of alleged Democratic primary in June win in November. misconduct, including campaign finance violations and misrepresentation of his background. After Unsurprisingly, LaLota had some thoughts. “George the report came out, he said he wouldn’t seek Santos’ expulsion from Congress was good for the reelection.” nation and his resignation from the Republican Party is good for commonsense conservatives,” Wait, he said he wouldn’t run again and now… he’s LaLota said according to The Huffington Post. running? What is he, some kind of liar? (Yes, yes he “Santos can watch me defend this important swing is.) district and the November election results from his prison cell as he’s being held accountable for Santos was even at Biden’s State of the Union, sitting stealing an election and ripping off donors.” Tell us next to extremist Republican Rep. Matt Gaetz, who how you really feel, LaLota! has legal problems of his own. And just how did Santos get in there? According to ABC News, “As The Huffington Post also spoke with Suffolk County a former member, Santos retains the privilege GOP chair Jesse Garcia. of accessing the House floor. He would need to “This is nothing more than the continuation of be convicted of one of his criminal charges to be George Santos’ need for celebrity status,” Garcia banned from the floor.” said. “There is no appetite amongst the voters of the First District, Long Island or even the nation for the In case you were wondering just how delusional Santos clown car show to continue.”

Santos is, on March 7 he posted to X that he is running again: “I have made several personal Needless to say, Santos isn’t very popular with sacrifices in the name of serving the American Republicans. Or Democrats. It’ll be interesting to people. My promise is that I will never back down see who funds this little Independent campaign. because of my love for this country.”

The Republican Party is a party of spectacle. They Ah, yes. If Santos is known for anything it’s for don’t have popular ideas. They don’t care about his many personal sacrifices made in the name of what happens to the average American. I admit that loving America.

I can’t help but find some Republican infighting entertaining, but I also know that this fighting is Santos also called out Republican incumbent Nick just one of the many symptoms of a completely LaLota, writing, “He is a willing [sic] to risk the dysfunctional party. A party that has for decades future of our majority and the future of this country been hell bent on proving to voters that government for his own political gain. After a lot of prayer and can’t possibly do anything for the average American conversation with my friends and family, I have except to hurt the people they don’t like. Sadly, that’s made a very important decision that will shake an incredibly effective campaign platform. things up.”

D’Anne Witkowski is a writer living in Michigan But Santos quickly decided that he’s not going to with her wife and son. She has been writing about run as a Republican: LGBTQ+ politics for nearly two decades. Follow her “The Republican Party continues to lie and swindle on Twitter @MamaDWitkowski. its voter base. I in good conscience cannot affiliate myself with a party that stands for nothing and

14

dm

on

tA

Piedmont Park

Pi e

6

ve .

J uniper St . NE

NE

14th St. NE

12th St. NE

1

Amsterdam Ave.

Monroe Dr. NE

MIDTOWN

9

16

10th St. NE

2

. NE

19

oe Dr

Ave. NE Piedmont

Juniper St . NE

Peacht r ee St . NE

3

Monr

Char l es Al l en Dr . NE

10

W. Peacht r ee St . NW

15

7

Ponce De Leon Pl . NE

Spring St. NW

17

4th St. NE

8

13

Ponce De Leon Ave. NE

4

Ponce De Leon Ave. NE

Dining

BARS 2 Blake's 3 Bulldogs 4 Friends

th

227 10th St NE 893 Peachtree St NE 736 Ponce De Leon Ave NE

9 10 & Piedmont 991 Piedmont Ave NE 10 Campagnolo 980 Piedmont Ave NE 16 G’s Midtown 219 10th St NE 17 Henry’s 132 10th St NE 19 La Hacienda 900 Monroe Dr NE

6 My Sister’s Room66 12th St NE 7 X Midtown 990 Piedmont Ave NE

fitness

BARS not on map

spa/bath

1 FUTURE ATLANTA 50 Lower Alabama St. SW Suite 180

pg| 20

14 Urban Body Fitness 500 Amsterdam Ave NE 15 Flex Spa

76 4th St. NW

DAVID Magazine

NEW ONLINE CALENDAR of EVENTS

User submitted .

See page for details

Cheshire

ansley

E .N

ve

41

28

Pi

20

ed

m

on

tA

ge R Brid Ches

hire

r.

E

eR

26

35

.N

idg

40

Dr

.

24

r eB

32

oe

Rd

36

nr

hir

e ll D

er

IX

Mo

dm on

es

kn

. NE

Pi e tC

29

Ch

Lidd

ul

31

33

x Rd

. NE

Manches t er St . NE

Piedmont Rd

22

Fa

30

27

BL

34

Le no

Lambert Dr.

PU

St.

d.

Alco

39

36 38

d.

ir .

Piedmont Park BARS

BARS

20 BJ Roosters

2043 Cheshire Bridge Rd

22 Tripps

1931 Piedmont Cir NE

Dining

24 Las Margaritas Closed Temporarily

Retail

1842 Cheshire Bridge Rd

26 Barking Leather 27 Southern Nights

1510 Piedmont Ave Suite A 2205 Cheshire Bridge Rd

28 Heretic 29 Tokyo Valentino

2069 Cheshire Bridge Rd 1739 Cheshire Bridge Rd

30 Gravitee Fitness

2201 Faulkner Rd NE

clubs

Fitness

DAVID Magazine

32 Atlanta Eagle 1492 Piedmont Ave NE 33 Felix's 1510 Piedmont Ave NE 34 The Hideaway 1544 Piedmont Ave NE 35 Mixx 1492 Piedmont Ave NE 36 Oscar's 1510 Piedmont Ave NE Mary's 1287 Glenwood Ave SE Sister Louisa’s Church 466 Edgewood Ave SE Lips Atlanta 3011 Buford Hwy NE 465 Boulevard SE The T Woof's 494 Plasters Ave NE

Retail

39 Boy Next Door 40 Barking Leather

Fitness

1447 Piedmont Ave NE 1510 Piedmont Ave NE

41 Equilibrium Fitness 1529 Piedmont Ave, Suite L

pg| 21

A snapshot of Gay Atlanta’s favorite destinations. View their ads in DAVID & visit their websites for weekly event listings.

SNAPS

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

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

132 10th St NE

FITNESS

LA HACIENDA lahaciendamidtown. com 900 Monroe Dr NE

MIDTOWN

TUK TUK THAI FOOD LOFT TUKTUKATL.COM 1745 Peachtree Rd NW DEKALB LIPS ATLANTA atldragshow.com 3011 Buford Hwy NE

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

OSCAR’S oscarsatlanta.com 1510 Piedmont Ave NE

X MIDTOWN xmidtown.com 990 Piedmont Ave NE

WOOFS woofsatlanta.com 494 Plasters Ave NE

THE T modeltatlanta.com 465 Boulevard SE

EAST ATLANTA, GRANT PARK & EDGEWOOD

CHESHIRE

MARY’S marysatlanta.com 1287 Glenwood Ave SE

SOUTHERN NIGHTS VIDEO 2205 Cheshire Bridge Rd NE

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

ANSLEY

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

DINING MIDTOWN CASA ALMENARA 991 Piedmont Ave NE casa-almenara.com HENRY’S henrysatl.com

RETAIL MIDTOWN BARKING LEATHER AFTER DARK barkingleather.com 1510 Piedmont Ave NE CHESHIRE

BOY NEXT DOOR MENSWEAR boynextdoormenswear.com 1000 Piedmont Ave NE, Ste A GCB & PLEASURES brushstrokesatlanta. com 1510-D Piedmont Ave. NE

URBAN BODY FITNESS urbanbodyfitness. com 500 Amsterdam Ave N CHESHIRE GRAVITEE FITNESS graviteeatl.com 2201 Faulkner Rd NE SPAS/BATHS ADULT FLEX SPA flexspas.com 76 4th St NW

EMAIL iNFO@DAViDATLANTA.COM FOR FREE BUSINESS LISTINGS THERE IS ROOM FOR YOU!

BARS & CLUBS MIDTOWN

Sunday PupTea @Atlanta Eagle

More (& larger) online at davidatlanta.com

Photos by: Russ Bowen-Youngblood

CARSON COWAN REALTOR® c. 404.998.9944 / o. 404.874.0300 / carson@carsoncowan.com / CarsonCowanRealEstate

Atlanta Fine Homes, LLC fully supports the principles of the Fair Housing Act and the Equal Opportunity Act. Each franchise is independently owned and operated.

Sunday NCAA Finals @ Woofs Atlanta

More (& larger) online at davidatlanta.com

Photos by: Russ Bowen-Youngblood

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.

If I can’t make the party, you better make sure no one has fun without me.

Gay art used to be the Sistine chapel – now it’s four guys in underwear.

Stop with the Ozempic already. Just do c*caine like an adult.

The world blacked out this week, and so did I.

With all the spring events I have, I’m considering faking my own death to get out of them.

Just got my disassociates degree

Self Care is cancelled. I'm putting vodka in slushees and acting out.

“A GAME-CHANGING ‘MOCKINGBIRD.’ GENUINELY RADICAL AND PULSING WITH RELEVANCE.” CHRIS JONES

RICHARD THOMAS ATTICUS FINCH HARPER LEE’S TO KILL A MOCKINGBIRD AARON SORKIN BARTLETT SHER ON SALE NOW is

A new play by

Directed by

MAY 7 - 12, 2024 • FOX THEATRE BroadwayinAtlanta.com

in

FREE ONLINE PrEP

...and STI testing too.

mistr.com