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New Season New Face

Screen Savor: Annihilation

Spring Forward to a Better Body

Fashion: Play on Pastels

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CONTENTS MARCH 28, 2018

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EDITORIAL

Mikkel Hyldebrandt Editorial Director mikkel@peachatl.com Rodney Belcher Graphic Designer

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From the Editor Do you know what will definitely kick everything into full-bloom Spring gear? Easter!

Sure, it’s the holiest of Holidays, but it also a weekend packed with all sorts of fun that will rid you completely of any winter gloom (so last season!).

Another Peach take-over event, the fun Field Day at Emory’s Clairmont Campus, two separate events from Atlanta’s fantastic DJ collective Deep South, and an incredible book launch at the Fox will no doubt keep you on your toes. And that’s just Friday and Saturday!

Sunday will give you an incredible lineup of the infamous Drag Races hosted by the notorious Amorettes and Oscars Atlanta, and the newly formed Beyond Productions brings back the tea dance with the SUGAR party, which will no doubt satisfy your sweet tooth. To close out the Easter weekend, Deep South returns with the first Church Service of the year at Sister Louisa’s (and it’s even rumored there is an after-hours party!).

Joshua Campbell Darren Floro-Bryant Scott King Jamie Kirk Gregg Shapiro

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So, strap on your bonnet and get out the dancing shoes, because Atlanta is about to get you in full bloom.

Enjoy, Peaches!

Mikkel Hyldebrandt Editorial Director

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The content of Peach ATL Media 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 the Peach ATL Media 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 Peach ATL Media meets your specific requirements. Peach ATL Media 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 Peach ATL Media, including but not limited to articles, advertisements, design, layout, graphics, and logos. No part or portion of Peach ATL Media may be reproduced in any way without the prior written consent of the publisher.

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

6 | 03.28.18

Served in Silence Book Launch at The Fabulous Fox Theatre

Atlanta resident and retired U.S. Air Force Captain Mark David Gibson launches his debut memoir, Served in Silence: The Struggle to Live Authentically, at the Fox Theatre on March 31 – and we want you to be a part of it!

The launch of Served in Silence is not only a celebration but brings its message of living authentically front and center. The evening will feature a word from the publisher (Publish Your Purpose), and other distinguished guests from the LGBTQ community and from around the country – and you will get a chance to meet the author himself and hear him speak about his journey to living an authentic life as a writer and with his partner Aaron.

Following the official book launch there will be a book signing and meet-and-greet followed by an after-party celebrating Aaron’s birthday – and yes, there will be cake!

VIP tickets ($50) and general admission tickets ($15) are available at markdavidgibson.com/events.

VIP tickets include: • •

Admission to the Fox Theatre, the Grand Salon, and the launch program A signed copy of Served In Silence book • Adult beverage drink ticket • Light hors-d’oeuvres • After-party at the Grand Salon

The What, When and Where!

What: Served in Silence: The Struggle to Live Authentically Book Launch featuring author Mark David Gibson When: Saturday, March 31, 7 pm Where: The Fox Theatre, The Grand Salon, 660 Peachtree St NE Tickets available at markdavidgibson.com/events Served in Silence is proud to partner with Lost-n-Found Youth, an Atlanta-based nonprofit dedicated to ending homelessness for all LGBTQ+ youth. Parts of the proceeds of Served in Silence will go to Lost-n-Found. Learn more at lfny.org.

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NEW GAY IN TOWN: Crush. Crushing. Crushed.

By Branden Lee Branden Lee is a writer andactor now living in Atlanta. Follow Branden on Twitter and Instagram @Brandeness. and watch Branden on his YouTube channel SexxxPerTease.

There’s something magical about a crush.

There’s a consuming rush of endorphins every time I see a hot guy at work, at the gym, at the club, walking down the street, anywhere really. Well, they only count as a crush if they’re someone I see repeatedly.

THE INTERNATIONAL SENSATION

3 PERFORMANCES ONLY!

APRIL 6-7 · FoxTheatre.org/Stomp 10 | 03.28.18

I do think that fear of not knowing if our crushes are gay or not, and if they may be homophobic and harm us is what keeps many gay men from approaching the hot guy they see. Many gay bashings and even murders have occurred because of the “gay panic” excuse. We can’t limit ourselves to just finding men online though. Not every eligible bachelor is on the internet.

Many love to bash dating apps and swear they would never use them, though most of them are probably the guys with the faceless profiles.

I had a new crush recently, and it made me feel wonderful. I’ve been single for a little over a month. I still think about my ex all day every day. I know that relationship must be put to rest, but I’ve always been someone that doesn’t get over my past guy until a new guy enters my life.

Crushes are reinvigorating. They bring excitement, joy, hope. Talking to the cute guy. The rush of him following me back on social media.

Seeing that he likes my pics and watches my stories. Doing the same with him. Then the childlike imagining our future together. Going on dates, hooking up, becoming Face-

book official, introducing him to my friends and family, getting engaged, getting married, living happily ever after. Forgetting all about the heartbreak my ex instilled into me.

Moving on to a love that’s better, healthier, and longer lasting.

Then back to reality. Crush isn’t liking my pics anymore. Crush isn’t texting me back. My crush clearly isn’t that into me. I’m sad again, missing the love I had with my ex. Even if that relationship was marred by toxicity and dysfunction.

Even though this particular crush seems to have blown up in my face, I’m happy I had a crush anyway. I felt that joy and excitement. The possibility that I will like new guys. The knowing I can feel feelings for someone else and my ex one day will be a distant memory.

I will love again! One day. Even if my present is full of guys with multiple mugshots, bankruptcies, unemployed guys, guys lying about their relationship status, and guys that are only after sex.

expect to find my next boyfriend instantly. I’ve only been single for a month. Finding love is about quality, not quantity. It’s also important to not let crushes just pass me by. If I see a hot guy, I shouldn’t let fear deter me.

It’s good to discern if a guy is most likely gay or not, but it’s Atlanta, so there’s a good chance he’s more likely gay.

I love that feeling of butterflies that comes with a new guy I like. Online is full of so many fakes and phonies that a guy can seem special one day, and then all that feeling is gone the next.

Crushes give you a chance to see someone constantly, analyze, fantasize, and imagine the possibilities. Each disappointment with guys I meet makes me miss my ex, but every new crush gives me hope that I’ll forget about him and find someone better. I want to love again. I want a boyfriend, and to be an even better boyfriend than I was in my past relationship.

I just need to keep hope alive, shoot my shot with my crushes, and not let opportunities of hot guys pass me by.

It took me nearly 27 years to get my first boyfriend, so I know I shouldn’t

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More Than Just Bikes!

Action Cycling Atlanta (ACA) is an Atlanta-based non-profit dedicated solely to stopping HIV/AIDS. Over the course of its 16-year history, ACA has staged multiple sporting events benefiting the community. ACA’s annual AIDS Vaccine 200 bike ride has raised over $2.6 million for local AIDS Support Organizations (ASOs). This year, ACA brings back Field Day, an adult staging of everyone’s favorite childhood day of competition.

What exactly is Field Day? Field Day is an attempt to redeem ourselves from our awkward Middle School years! Seriously, Field Day is a grown-up version of the most awesome school event from your childhood. Think 3-legged races, hula-hoops, tug-of-war, dizzy lizzy and plenty of other fun games!

Field Day was hugely popular several years ago, and we thought it was high time to bring it back. It’s a great way to kick off spring and benefit some amazing community organizations!

Where did the idea come from?

It’s certainly not a new idea. But Field Day has been on hiatus the past three or four years. A bunch of friends were talking about resurrecting the day, and a couple of those people happened to be on the ACA Board of Directors. When we floated the idea of bringing Field Day back, the ACA Board jumped at the idea of supporting it.

What does Action Cycling Atlanta do?

Action Cycling Atlanta’s sole mission is to eliminate HIV/ AIDS. We do this by raising money for Vaccine research and disease prevention. Most people know us through our annual AIDS Vaccine 200 mile bike ride.

How did bikes get connected with Tug-of War? Great question!

We have several cyclists in our leadership group who were also involved in staging Field Day. When we started brainstorming additional ways to expand our reach in the region, Field Day was natural.

Both are positive, healthy and really fun ways to give back to the community.

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Who are this year’s beneficiaries?

Field Day will benefit Hearts Everywhere Reaching Out of Children (H.E.R.O.) and ACA. H.E.R.O. currently serves more than 350 kids with more than 250 volunteers.

The organization’s unique mission includes children who are affected by HIV/AIDS. An affected child is one who is HIV+, has an infected parent, sibling, residential relative or has lost a relative to HIV/AIDS. H.E.R.O. serves a majority low-income population and does not charge a fee to parents/guardians for any of its services or programs.

For the AV200, the primary beneficiary is The Emory Vaccine Center. EVC is one of the leading institutions worldwide conducting HIV/AIDS vaccine research. The AV200 funds the stipends of 5 post-doctoral research fellows at Emory. The cure for AIDS may very well come from one of them! The Ride also benefits Jerusalem House and Positive Impact. Jerusalem House provides daily living assistance to those living with HIV/AIDS and Positive Impact provides prevention training, medication assistance and other services for HIV+ people in North Georgia.

Riding a bike 200 miles! Are you crazy?

Ha! Not really. The AV200 is one of the most well-produced cycling events in the country. The ride itself is challenging, no doubt about that! It’s purposefully designed to take the rider out of his or her comfort zone.

In doing this, we are reminded of the sacrifices and the struggles against HIV/AIDS that so many were not able to overcome. We conduct organized training rides, both indoor and outdoor, leading up to the ride. Our ride leaders ensure everyone is equipped and ready to roll come Ride Weekend.

When is Field Day? How about AV200?

Field day is Saturday, March 31. The AV200 is Saturday and Sunday, May 20 and 21.

How do I get more info?

Field Day: www. http://donate.av200.org/ V200: www.av200.org

Play On Pastels

By Mikkel Hyldebrandt

Muted hues are a massive fashion statement this spring and summer. Whatever your fashion game, think pastels in all the colors of a pale rainbow.

The Soft-Hued Clothing When your mind starts obsessing about spring colors, let your mind go to faded hues that are having a moment this season.

Happy Socks Big Dot, $12 Banana Republic Aiden Slim Chino, $70

Seavees Hawthorne Slip On Mr Turk, $88

Topman Oversized ‘Unknown’ T-shirt, $35

Charlie Original Trunk Oatmeal, $38

Calvin Klein Slim Fit Graffiti Denim Shorts, $69

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Pastel is In the Details Not all pastels need to be worn like clothing.

For an easy way into the pastel trend, wear your softer color schemes as accessories or fun gadgets.

Ultimate Ears Wonderboom Portable Waterproof Bluetooth Speaker, $100 The North Face OK Mini Berkley Backpack, $60

Leica Sofort Compact Instant Camera, $299

Dior Homme Cologne, $97

Ray-Ban Wayfarer Sunglasses, $105

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New Season, New Face

By Mikkel Hyldebrandt

April Showers… … are terrible for your hair!

Think about buying a rainproof hair product that’ll keep your style intact through a drizzle.

Coltrane Triumph & Disaster Clay, $27

The thing about Spring is that it only gets better from here on!

And with the new springy conditions comes new circumstances for your skin – so with the new season, it’s time to put a new forward too.

Scrub Away It’s time to rid the skin’s surface of that dull skin and dry patches – and that goes for your entire body! Exfoliate a little more than usual, no more than a couple of times week, and always be gentle!

Jo Malone London Lime Basil & Mandarin Exfoliating Shower Gel, $40

Don’t Forget SPF

Use a Lighter Moisturizer

No matter what skin tone you have, sunscreen is always a good thing. Because even though you may not burn there are still plenty of harmful side effects caused by sun (over)exposure.

Like you change up your bed covers to a lighter version, the same goes for your skin which doesn’t need the same cuddly wrap-up as in winter.

Ursa Major Fortifying Face Balm, $36

Jack Black Double Duty Face Moisturizer SPF20, $28

Trim the Wilderness So, pretty soon you’ll be lounging poolside or by the sea, so make sure your body hair isn’t an untrimmed wilderness. You don’t have to go smooth, but a neat trim will do.

Philips Norelco Bodygroom, $35

Get a Cut Cold weather and dry air can leave your tresses dry and dull, so get a fresh cut, and make sure you treat your hair to a conditioning treatment.

Kevin Murphy Staying Alive Leave-In Conditioner, $35 16 | 03.28.18

Shimmer and Be gay

By Gregg Shapiro

18 | 03.28.18

A

lex Garland may have gotten his start as a novelist (1996’s best-selling “The Beach”) and later transitioned to writing screenplays (“28 Days Later” and “Never Let Me Go”), but as he demonstrated with his Oscar-winning 2014 directorial debut “Ex Machina” starring Alicia Vikander and Oscar Isaac), he has found his place behind thecamera. Garland’s latest movie, “Annihilation” (Paramount), which he also adapted from Jeff VanderMeer’s novel, confirms that fact.

A first-rate sci-fi horror flick, with astounding special effects and shocks and gore galore, “Annihilation” also features a chill-inducing score co-written by Geoff Barrow (of Portishead). Moving back and forth in time, often blurring the two, the main thing to know that after a mysterious meteor-like object crashed into a lighthouse, the region underwent a visible and potentially dangerous change. Most notably, it is now surrounded by a shimmering, penetrable and ever-expanding barrier, known as, you guessed it, The Shimmer.

First among the four female lead characters is Lena (Natalie Portman), an ex-soldier and biologist, now teaching at Johns Hopkins. She is also the wife of special ops soldier Kane (Oscar Isaac).

After going missing for a year, Kane returns in a noticeably different psychic state, beginning with the serious memory loss. Suddenly hemorrhaging internally, Lena rushes him to the hospital, but the ambulance is intercepted by soldiers and government officials.

The next thing Lena knows, she’s in a secret government facility on the outskirts of the approaching Shimmer. Kane is there, too, in isolation and on life support, barely clinging to life.

a small contingent into the Shimmer to try and discover its source and how to possibly contain it. The others on Ventress’ team are lesbian Anya (Gina Rodriguez), Josie (Tessa Thompson) and Cassie (Tuva Novotny), all of whom bring special skills to the mission. Ventress and Lena agree that it is best that the others don’t know Lena’s specific connection to the mission.

Predictably, things begin to go awry soon after the five women enter The Shimmer. They lose track of time and their bearings. Communication with the outside world is cut off. Oh, and there are gigantic bloodthirsty beasts, including an alligator with an extra row of teeth like a shark’s and a hideous bear-like creature that steals the screams of its victims and makes it part of its own voice. It doesn’t help matters that a video camera memory card featuring terrifying footage is discovered by the women.

Additionally, “Annihilation” even has a subtle environmental message about the potential for the nature world to reclaim what was taken from it, even if takes alien intervention. By the end, with only one surviving member of the posse (can you guess which one?), there are many questions to be answered. Some are and some aren’t, but that’s part of the fun of the movie.

Like “Black Panther”, “Annihilation features female characters that are as strong as they are sensitive. Unlike “Black Panther”, “Annihilation isn’t afraid to have visible queer characters, front and center.

Rating: B+

While there, she meets Dr. Ventress (Jennifer Jason Leigh), who is leading

peachATL.com | 19

2018 National Poetry Month Reading List

By Gregg Shapiro

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Observed every April since its 1996 launch, National Poetry Month was created by the American Academy of poets as a means of celebrating and calling attention to poetry. Special events scheduled for National Poetry Month in 2018 include the continued airing of the star-studded PBS series Poetry in America, the Dear Poet project in the schools, as well as a multitude of events in public libraries, as well as the famous month-long O, Miami festival.

If you prefer your poetry on a solitary, one-on-one basis, consider the recent titles below.

Lesbian poet Julie Marie Wade calls Same-Sexy Marriage (A Midsummer Night’s Press, 2018) “a novella in poems” and it’s a fitting description for the 17 linked poems, based on a little white lie told by her mother, that are alternately, heartbreaking, amusing, and always insightful.

With content drawn from six books – The Other Man Was Me, What the Body Told, Landscape With Human Figure, The Enemy and Alternative Medicine – ComfortMeasuresOnly:NewandSelectedPoems, 1994-2016 (Duke, 2018) expands on Rafael Campo’s respected reputation with 31 new poems.

Recipient of a 1996 Lambda Literary Award for All-American Girl, lesbian poet and educator Robin Becker returns with her eighth full-length poetry collection The Black Bear Inside Me (University of Pittsburg, 2018).

Tommy Pico, a finalist in the Gay Poetry category for the 30th annual Lambda Literary Awards for his book Nature Poem, completes his poetry trilogy with Junk (Tin

House Press, 2018), the third installment in the Teebs series, which began with 2016’s IRL. Together and by Ourselves (Copper Canyon

Press, 2017), the second poetry collection by gay poet Alex Dimitrov, in which the poet traverses the coasts, in search of answers to “existential questions” connected to “the reality of our current moment.”

The pocket-sized Take Me With You (Plume, 2018) by Andrea Gibson, is separated into three sections – “On Love”, “On The World” and “On Becoming,” and features illustrations alongside the poems (one-liners, couplets, and longer pieces).

Translated by David Colmer, The Sexy Storm (A Midsummer Night’s Press, 2018)

by Dutch novelist and children’s book author Edward Van De Vendel is described as a collection of “modern love poems” tracing a relationship from first blush to last kiss.

Edited by Julie R. Enszer, with an introduction by Mecca Jamilah Sullivan, Sister Love: The Letters of Audre Lorde and Pat Parker 19741989 (Sinister Wisdom, 2018), collects the correspondence between the late lesbian poets Lorde and Parker, in which they share the intimate details of their lives as writers and queer women, including the times in which each of them lived with cancer.

Not a member of the LGBTQ community, but a marvelous poet nevertheless, James Wright is the subject of the thorough bio James Wright: A Life in Poetry (FSG, 2017)

by Jonathan Blunk. If you don’t know Wright’s poem “A Blessing,” you owe it to yourself to read it.

peachATL.com | 21

BLAKES

PHOTOS: Sher Pruitt

22 | 03.28.18

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WHEN LOVE TAKES OVER: IAMMIDTONW Brian McCall PHOTOS:

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FIELD DAY MARGARITA BUST AT TEN PHOTOS: Sher Pruitt

PLEASE CHECK OUT FACEBOOK AND OUR WEBSITE FOR MORE PHOTOS 26 | 03.28.18

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Ryan has lived in Atlanta for nine years, and seven of those as a resident of the East Atlanta Village. He is a nurse at Northside Hospital and spends his free time as an urban farmer tending to his garden and chickens. Ryan also plays and coaches in the gay softball league and is the proud uncle of two nephews and a niece. He loves a new adventure, traveling, the beach, and anything outdoors!

Ryan Conner

Spring Forward to a Better Body

By Darren Floro-Bryant

It’s April already? Are you ready for the warmer weather? Spring means more outdoor socializing, maybe a few beverages, and time to relax and enjoy the warmth. This also means shorts, t-shirts, bathing suits, and tank tops…pool parties and time at the beach!

Now that the cold, hibernating months have passed, we all want to shed the extra layer of clothing, but we may not feel confident about what the clothing has been covering. Spring is the perfect time to make some changes to your routine that will help you feel more comfortable and confident in your skin while enjoying the warmer weather.

This does not mean we need to go out and start a whole new fitness regimen - or maybe it does? The warmer weather could be the motivation that we have been lacking in the colder months. Also, with this warmer weather, it’s a great way to take your routine outside. Spring is a chance for us to change our outlook or perspective and redirect our focus. Keep in mind, though, we should put just as much emphasis on how we feel as how we look. Updates to your regular routine increase the potential for some great changes to your body and your mind. Looking better is a great byproduct from doing things that improve our overall health and fitness.

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So what quick things can we alter in our day to day lives that will start the positive changes?

We can break it down into different categories to make it a lot easier to tackle rather than trying to remember so many different things. We also need to consider our current restrictions and hurdles that may make some of these changes a challenge.

The two main categories are diet and exercise.

We all pretty well know what we need to do, but sometimes forget or get caught up in our routines or ruts. Some restrictions and hurdles that can hold us back are time, environment, money, motivation, and lack of knowledge.

Let’s start with diet!

Look at ways to change your diet to healthier, more seasonal foods to get your mind and body to feel lighter and more energized. This is easier said than done, and believe me, WE ALL struggle with this. Try to make these changes at home where you have more control over what is available or choose healthier options at restaurants. It is difficult when you are out and everything being served is not part of your “improvement plan.” And when you are out at the party or event, enjoy some of the foods, but watch your portions.

Here are some dies tips:

o Keep you feeling fuller, helping you cut down on cravings. Have a glass with every meal.

• Get up earlier to eat a healthy breakfast giving your metabolism a kick start.

o Help you avoid sugary springtime inspired beverages

• Prepack lunches and snacks for work to avoid temptations.

• Consider adding lemon to your water to help cleanse and refresh.

• While out at restaurants choose leafy green salads for sides rather than fries or prepared salads (ie. potato or pasta salad). Just remember to ask for your dressing on the side.

•Have a healthy snack or meal at home where you can control what you eat before going out to reduce cravings at a party or event

• Add water to your routine because drinking more water will: o Keep your metabolism fired up and help you burn more calories, giving you energy (this is especially important in the morning and a great way to start your day).

Now let’s move on to exercise!

During the winter months, time and convenience can get in the way, and the gym may be the only option for you to get a work out in. Now’s the time to take advantage of this warmer weather and take your workouts outside. Hike, bike, walk, run… a change in environment is a great motivator. Add variety to your workout routine, increasing the potential for positive changes in your body.

Here are some exercise tips: • Consider hiring a trainer, even if it is just to have them create a new program for you to change it up.

• Join a group fitness class. If you’re used to working out alone, this will not only challenge you physically, but mentally as well.

• Try out a new gym or club (run club, bike club, hiking club, etc.)

• Rotate through different cardio machines to change up your cardio routine.

• Play a sport.

•When at parties or cookouts, use smaller plates when taking food or put your drink cup on your plate to reduce the space for food on your plate.

Also, if you choose to drink alcohol, be sure to have a glass of water between drinks.

If you currently don’t have a workout plan, or money is tight and you can’t afford the cost of a gym membership or fitness program, consider increasing your activity level simply by adding walking into your daily routine.

• If you take public transit to work, try getting off the bus a stop earlier to add some more activity into your day either on your way into work or when headed home, or maybe both.

• If you drive into work, park a little farther away in the parking lot and add a few extra steps into your day.

• Take the stairs whenever possible.

• Plan a walk along the Beltline as part of your weekend activities.

• Go for a walk on your lunch break, then enjoy your lunch at your desk.

• Pack gym clothes in your work bag and take advantage of the company gym.

Whatever you choose to focus on or change, do it now. Don’t wait until next week or next month. Spring has sprung, and each new day is a good day to start.

So, go put on your shorts, t-shirts, or bathing suit, grab a drink, and meet me at the pool!

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Mary Don’t You Weep He is Risen Indeed

By Scott King

Now Mary stood outside the tomb crying. As she wept, she bent over to look into the tomb and saw tw angels in white, seated where Jesus’ body had been, one at the head and the other at the foot.

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They asked her, “Woman, why are you crying?”

The spirit is without end, eternal, deathless.”

“They have taken my Lord away,” she said, “and I don’t know where they have put him.”

At this, she turned around and saw Jesus standing there, but she did not realize that it was Jesus.

- The Bhagavad Gita

He asked her, “Woman, why are you crying?

Who is it you are looking for?”

Thinking he was the gardener, she said, “Sir, if you have carried him away, tell me where you have put him, and I will get him.”

Jesus said to her, “Mary.”

- The Gospel of John, Chapter 20, Verses 11-16.

A couple thousand years later, I was in a cemetery in Alabama, looking for Hank Williams’s grave. We were fresh out of college and couldn’t find it. Instead, I found my friend Russell, who had passed away a few years before. I hadn’t seen him in a while. He appeared in the light, spectral. He looked at me and said, without opening his mouth, “Don’t do it, Mary.”

I added the Mary part, but all the rest is true. At the time, I was dating someone much, much younger. He was precocious yet endearingly innocent, kind of like I was when I met Russell. Russell had the strength not to do it to me, not to take advantage of my availability and leave me jaded beyond my years. After that edifying visit from Russell in the cemetery, so did I.

I cry every time I read this, because it is true.

I’m always glad to hear from Russell. My recently departed friend, I still feel his spirit lingering, but I do not have the pretense quite yet to ask for an audience.

It doesn’t matter, though. Love is like the spirit. It is eternal, endless, and deathless. Love creates something that was not there before, and it does not ever go away. It just changes form.

While they gave me the invaluable gifts of love and wisdom, neither Sean nor Russell were perfect. What a useless notion. I’ve always found it absurd that the Jesus of the Bible was “without sin.” Under such a condition, how on earth (pun intended) would he have been able to relate his teachings to humanity, to lead us to transcendence of the quotidian and the material?

I doubt that the angels are perfect. They were only human, after all. And the most famous of them got too big for his britches and became the light-bearer. That’s a lot of responsibility.

My guess is that death and the afterlife, much like life on this plane, is full of flawed characters, clumsily fumbling through the darkness with a head full of light into which they think they have long ago walked.

Learn from life, but always be open to instruction from the dead. Death has something to teach us, even when our dearly departed don’t have time to come back and give us tutorials while hovering over Alabama dirt roads.

The Russell that visited me in Alabama wasn’t any wiser or more angelic than the one with whom I used to go for walks in the woods in college. Ask anyone who knew him; he was pretty angelic when he was with us in the flesh.

Over the past weeks I have shed many a tear over a friend of mine who just succumbed to cancer. During the dry spells, I have felt a pain in my gut equivalent to being stunned. It is not a dull pain. I hate all dull things.

And, as I think about it, eyes moistening because I’m emo, Sean’s influence was felt, at least by me, in my wonder at how lightly he could tread on the path while still lighting the way.

The memory, the connection, it never really ceases to exist.

I don’t need to look for him anymore. He’s already there. The tomb is empty.

“All that lives, lives forever.

Only the shell, the perishable, passes away.

Scott King is an Atlanta-based writer, consultant, and political activist. He enjoys tennis, hiking, rock concerts, and having drinks with friends.

He is currently working on a novel about a hooker with a heart of Bitcoin.

peachATL.com | 35

The Chicken or the Egg?

By Jamie Kirk

W

hat came first the chicken or the egg? This is an age-old question. Elementary even. This question can be answered 1,000 different ways, by 1,000 different people, with 1,000 perspectives. The good thing about a perspective is that it is neither right or wrong. I wanted to really look at this question from a philosophical angle. And since it’s around Easter, I figured the egg analogy would be appropriate.

Eggs are the symbol of new life or new beginnings. The egg is about re-birth and a doing a “new” thing. The egg symbolizes starting fresh and anew. It is associated with the beginning of life.

When we look at the previous question - what came first? We tend to think of it in very logical terms, regardless of your stance. The chicken must come from an egg or how else can a chicken exist, if not first an egg. But yet, how can an egg exist if not for the chicken. It’s Crazy Talk. But if we look at the question from how we should problem solve and make decisions in our life, the question can be much easier to solve - or NOT. Let’s look at two different ways to solve an issue in our life. One way to look at the issue is thinking and speaking it into existence. Meaning that if we think positive thoughts and if we really “pray,” or for non-believers “wish,” REALLY hard, what we want will drop from the sky in our laps. If we shift our thinking, we can chart the course of events that may or may not happen. If we think good, then only good will happen to us and around us. We can even ask others to “pray” or “wish” right along with us in hopes of there being power in numbers! This can symbolize that you are hatching what you want before it pops into your life.

Or to keep in line with the theme; the egg comes first.

On to the next perspective. Sometimes we tend to do nothing until we are uncomfortable or forced to change. You need to do something, but you think of every excuse not to cause a change or movement in

36 | 03.28.18

your life. When you are solving issues like this, you believe that you are in control of your destiny and that you cannot impact the outcome. Whatever is gonna happen, has already happened and you can’t change the course of life’s wrinkles. When you solve issues in your life with this method you are attempting to play the hand you are dealt and not ask for the dealer to re-shuffle. This can symbolize that you are responding and controlling what you want after it pops into your life. Or to keep in line with the theme; the chicken comes first.

As mentioned before neither way is right or wrong.

It really depends on your perspective. It depends on how you were raised, and what you saw growing up.

Some parents never talked about bills, bankruptcy, medical issues, etc., while some folks grew up in a home where issues were brought up at the dinner table on a Tuesday night. Each one of us has a different stance on how to get through this thing called life, and we have to use our own formula. We have to live our life as best we can, make decisions based on fac ts, not emotions and just freaking hope for the best.

Therefore, when you look at questions like above, try and dig deeper into the meaning and how it can positively impact your life. Look beyond the riddle and look for the lesson.

What came first the chicken or the egg? Yes, it’s a pretty silly question. But the next time you see the question or the question comes up in a dinner party, ask yourself this: Am I waiting for my life to start, or am I ensuring I am living my best life now? Once you answer this for yourself, it will be an aha moment for YOU, which one came first the chicken or the egg.

Jamie Kirk works for a software company and is a certified spinning instructor. He also enjoys yoga, swimming, bicycling and running. He aspires to start a blog about what we put in our bodies not only fuels our body but our mind and spirit as well. Follow Jamie on IG @tysonsdad

friday, may 4

jack white

david byrne • fleet foxes • courtney barnett • japandroids franz ferdinand • jimmy eat world • the black angels • rival sons the brian jonestown massacre • waxahatchee • ezra furman • the frights lillie mae • marlon williams • rolling blackouts coastal fever

the ghost of paul revere • welles • the war and treaty l.a. witch • liz brasher • *repeat repeat • amasa hines

saturday, may 5

queens stone age OF THE

the war on drugs • cake • manchester orchestra • matt and kim the distillers • parquet courts • circa survive • greta van fleet chicano batman • andrew w.k. • jacob banks • torres • broncho • bully charly bliss • mikky ekko • bayonne • the night game• teenage wrist the sherlocks • stop light observations • sun seeker

tickets on sale now at

SHAKYKNEESFESTIVAL.COM

the national

sunday, may 6

tenacious d • vance joy • nathaniel rateliff & the night sweats Lord huron • the voidz • all time low • black rebel motorcycle club alvvays • sir sly • the menzingers • basement • lukas nelson and promise of the real parcels • alice merton • mt. joy • the wild reeds • post animal • frankie rose

marshmello

friday, may 11

dillon francis • ludacris • g jones • herobust • quinn xcii london on da track • space jesus • minnesota • manic focus

CENTRAL PARK

atlanta, georgia

marvel years • thriftworks • buku • jack harlow

zedd

saturday, may 12

excision • playboi carti • san holo • borgore • whethan • K?D shiba san • ookay [live] • wolfgang gartner • bonnie x clyde louis futon • the him • bleep bloop • phantoms kidswaste • loosid • halogen • vandal rose

kygo

sunday, may 13

seven lions • louis the child • kayzo • troyboi • tokimonsta autograf • yehme2 • medasin • brohug • ofenbach • dr. fresch unlike pluto • billy kenny • parker • midnite panda

tickets on sale now at

SHAKYBEATSFESTIVAL.COM

Mar 28 – Apr 4

WHEN LOVE TAKEs OVER Presents Deeper and Deeper Join Peach at Atlanta’s newest hot spot for some delicious Deep Eddy cocktails, one of Deep End’s own frozen drinks, or some of the best tacos in town.

This fun social gathering is presented by Peach and sponsored by Deep Eddy Vodka and The Deep End

Deep South Easter Weekend The Atlanta DJ collective will resurrect you starting Friday with PasQUEERa, Saturday with Honcho, and close out Sunday night with a proper Easter Sunday Service at Sister Louisa’s. Atlanta Won’t Stop!

The Deep End

Friday, March 30, Mary’s - Deep South presents PasQUEERa! Saturday, March 31, The Music Room - Deep South presents Honcho Sunday, April 1, Sister Louisa’s - Easter Sunday Service

STAFF PICK!

SUGAR Tea Dance

Friday, March 30

Satisfy your sweet tooth with Atlanta’s newest Tea Dance, Sugar. Beyond Productions will give you a sugar rush with the beats of DJ Russ Rich from San Fran at Loca Luna formerly known as Red Chair.

Sunday, April 1, 5-10pm Loca Luna

Field Day hosted by Action Cycling Atlanta

Easter Drag Races with The Armorettes

Love is in the air, flowers are blooming, and queens all over Atlanta are prepared to show off their best Easter Field Day is the grown-up version of the most awesome Bonnet! Join us for the annual drag races and celebrate school games from your childhood like 3-legged races, the holiest of Holidays with drag, drinks, and games. hula-hoops, tug-of-war, dizzy lizzy, and plenty of other fun games throughout the day – and the chance to win Sunday, April 1, 2 pm the coveted 2018 Field Day Championship title! Go to Oscars Atlanta donate.av200.org/fieldday to support and donate.

Saturday, March 31, 10 am Emory Clairmont Campus 38 | 03.28.18

HEIFER REVIEW AT COWTIPPERS PHOTOS: Andrea Dwyer

40 | 03.28.18

t ha nks T H A N KS TO AL L OF OUR F RIEN DS A N D S P O N S O R S! S EE Y ’AL L N EXT YEA R !

ATLANTA PRIDE FESTIVAL Oct. 13-14, 2018 | atlantapride.org

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DRAG YOURSELF TO BRUNCH AT CACTUS HOUSE PHOTOS: Sher Pruittv

44 | 03.28.18

A BE T T ERBU Z Z W IN T ER T H AW AT

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MIDTOWN 1

Monroe Dr. NE

14

Amsterdam Ave.

NE ve . tA

Piedmont Park

on

11

dm

6 12th St. NE

18

Pi e

Juniper St. NE

14th St. NE

7

9

2

10th St. NE

10

. NE

19

oe Dr

e. NE Piedmont Av

Juniper St . NE

Peachtree St. NE

3

Monr

Charles Allen Dr. NE

12 W. Peachtree St. NW

15

16

4th St. NE

8

13

BARS Amsterdam Blake's Bulldogs Friends The Model T My Sister’s Room Ten Atlanta

5

Dining 502 Amsterdam Ave NE 227 10th St NE 893 Peachtree St NE 736 Ponce De Leon Ave NE 699 Ponce De Leon Ave NE 66 12th St NE 990 Piedmont Ave NE

9 10 th & Piedmont 10 Campagnolo 11 Einstein's 12 F.R.O.G.S

clubs 13 Atlanta Eagle

306 Ponce De Leon Ave NE

306 Ponce De Leon Ave NE

14 Urban Body Fitness 500 Amsterdam Ave NE

spa/bath 15 Flex Spa

50 | 03.28.18

991 Piedmont Ave NE 980 Piedmont Ave NE 1077 Juniper St NE 931 Monroe Cir NE

fitness

retail 8 Barking Leather

4

Ponce De Leon Ave. NE

Ponce De Leon Ave. NE

1 2 3 4 5 6 7

Ponce De Leon Pl. NE

Spring St. NW

17

76 4th St. NW

16 G’s Midtown 17 Henry’s 18 Joe's on Juniper 19 La Hacienda

219 10th St NE 132 10th St NE 1049 Juniper St NE 900 Monroe Dr NE

billards/Darts drag dancers leather non-smoking area Patio

www.SavedAndGay.com NEW COVENANT Church of Atlanta

404.929.1400

Cheshire 23

ansley 21

37

ge

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Piedmont Park

ir .

BARS 2043 Cheshire Bridge Rd 1086 Alco St NE 1931 Piedmont Cir NE 2425 Piedmont Rd NE 1842 Cheshire Bridge Rd 1824 Cheshire Bridge Rd 805 Lambert Dr. NE, Suite A 2205 Cheshire Bridge Rd

clubs 28 Heretic 29 Jungle

2069 Cheshire Bridge Rd 2115 Faulkner Rd NE

Fitness 30 Gravitee Fitness

2201 Faulkner Rd NE

Spa / bath 31 Manifest 4 U 42 The Den

32 Burkhart's 33 Felix's 34 The Hideaway 35 Mixx 36 Oscar's

2103 Faulkner Rd NE 2135 Liddell Drive NE

1492 Piedmont Ave NE 1510 Piedmont Ave NE 1544 Piedmont Ave NE 1492 Piedmont Ave NE 1510 Piedmont Ave NE

Dining 37 Cowtippers 38 Eclectic Bistro

Retail 26 Barking Leather 27 Southern Nights

NE

38

Dining 24 Las Margaritas 25 Roxx

e. nt mo ed

39

d.

BARS 20 BJ Roosters 21 Opus 1 22 Tripps 23 Woof's

41

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24

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36

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Manchester St. NE

Piedmont Rd. NE

22

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27

33

. NE

26

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34

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BL

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30

Lambert Dr.

PU

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1600 Piedmont Ave NE 1425 Piedmont Ave NE

Retail 39 Boy Next Door 1447 Piedmont Ave NE 40 Brushstrokes/Pleasures 1510 Piedmont Ave NE

Fitness 41 Equilibrium Fitness

1529 Piedmont Ave, Suite L

NOT SHOWN

The Cockpit Atlanta Mary's Sister Louisa’s Church Swinging Richards Lips Atlanta

465 Boulevard SE 1287 Glenwood Ave SE 466 Edgewood Ave SE 1400 Northside Dr NW 3011 Buford Hwy NE peachATL.com | 51

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

Bars & Clubs

OSCAR’S

MIDTOWN

1510 Piedmont Ave NE

AMSTERDAM 502 Amsterdam Ave. NE

EAST ATLANTA, GRANT PARK & EDGEWOOD

ATLANTA EAGLE

THE COCKPIT

amsterdamatlanta.com

atlantaeagle.com 306 Ponce De Leon Ave NE

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

MODEL T modeltatlanta.com 699 Ponce De Leon Ave NE

MY SISTER’S ROOM mysistersroom.com

oscarsatlanta.com

thecockpit-atlanta.blogspot.com 465 Boulevard SE

MARY’S marysatlanta.com 1287 Glenwood Ave SE

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

SWINGING RICHARDS swingingrichards.com 1400 Northside Dr NW

Dining MIDTOWN

66 12th St NE

10TH & PIEDMONT

TEN ATLANTA

communitashospitality.com

DEKALB LIPS ATLANTA atldragshow.com 3011 Buford Hwy NE

Retail MIDTOWN BARKING LEATHER AFTER DARK barkingleather.com 306 Ponce De Leon Ave NE

CHESHIRE BARKING LEATHER barkingleather.com 805 Lambert Dr NE

SOUTHERN NIGHTS VIDEO 2205 Cheshire Bridge Rd NE

ANSLEY BOY NEXT DOOR MENSWEAR boynextdoormenswear.com 1447 Piedmont Ave NE

GCB & PLEASURES

tenatlanta.com

991 Piedmont Ave NE

brushstrokesatlanta.com

990 Piedmont Ave NE

EINSTEIN’S

1510 Piedmont Ave. NE

einsteinsatlanta.com 1077 Juniper St NE

Fitness

FROGS CANTINA

MIDTOWN

CHESHIRE HERETIC hereticatlanta.com 2069 Cheshire Bridge Road

frogsmidtown.com 931 Monroe Dr

G’S BJ ROOSTERS bjroosters.com

communitashospitality.com 219 10th St NE

URBAN BODY FITNESS urbanbodyfitness.com 500 Amsterdam Ave NE

CHESHIRE

2043 Cheshire Bridge Road NE

HENRY’S

OPUS 1

132 10th St NE

graviteeatl.com

JOE’S ON JUNIPER

2201 Faulkner Rd NE

joesonjuniper.com 1049 Juniper St NE

Spas/Baths/Adult

LA HACIENDA

MIDTOWN

1086 Alco St NE

TRIPPS 1931 Piedmont Circle N

WOOFS woofsatlanta.com

henrysatl.com

lahaciendamidtown.com

GRAVITEE FITNESS

900 Monroe Dr NE

FLEX SPA

ANSLEY

CHESHIRE

76 4th St NW

BURKHART’S

LAS MARGARITAS

CHESHIRE

lasmargaritasmidtown.com

MANIFEST 4U manifest4u.org

2425 Piedmont Road NE

burkharts.com 1492 Piedmont Ave NE

FELIX’S 1510 Piedmont Ave NE

THE HIDEAWAY

1842 Cheshire Bridge Rd NE

ROXX 1824 Cheshire Bridge Rd NE

1544 Piedmont Ave NE

ANSLEY

MIXX

COWTIPPERS

mixxatlanta.com 1492 Piedmont Ave NE

cowtippersatlanta.com 1600 Piedmont Ave NE

flexspas.com

2103 Faulkner Rd NE

THE DEN thedenatlanta.com 2135 Liddell Drive NE

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10 THINGS THAT WILL MAKE YOUR EASTER EPIC

SPRING IS IN THE AIR AND EVERYTHING’S IN BLOOM!

2

1

Get a sugar rush

3

Go on an egg hunt

Get active outside (Field Day!)

Dance away the night outdoors

10

Don’t forget your allergy meds!

9

5

Plan an April Fool’s joke

Wear pastels

8

6

Go to a tea dance (Sugar!)

4

7

54 | 03.28.18

Eat chocolate eggs & bunnies

4.Attend the Drag Races!

Sunday Funday = Playmates and soul mates...

MISERABLE MONDAY

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peachATL.com | 55

Text your Peach Pits to 256-60-PEACH, or e-mail mikkel@PeachATL.com Illustrations by: Jerel Ely

Is this Game of Thrones? Has winter come and will never end?

Asking for a friend: at what age do you learn to cook for one and not for a village?

Him: did you find everything you were looking for at the store?

Me *unloading 10+ shopping bags*: No, not at all

Spring Zhuzh?

No, honey, her face needs a face smush!

Him: What’s all this then?

Me: I wasn’t looking for any of this!

I can’t wait to go on an egg hunt in the pants of all those sweet boy bunnies!

Diet pills and vodka is prepping for summer, right?

When your straight co-workers ask you what you are going to Berlin for at Easter... Um, it is sort of a fashion week kind of thing?

That moment when you catch a glimpse of your own reflection and don’t recognize yourself?

Diet is coming up.

When someone talks shit about Britney Spears at the bar and it takes every muscle in your body not to punch them!!

56 | 03.28.18

ARIES (MAR. 21 - APR. 19)

LIBRA (SEP. 23 - OCT. 22)

If you’ve been having trouble reaching a romantic partner, it might be a good idea to stop trying. Your friend is having a great trick and might not make the best company. In fact, your beloved could view a call from you as an unwelcome interruption and be short, if not downright rude. If you speak with your friend, keep it brief and plan to get together - just not while his ass is in the air.

Too much rigorous exercise over the past few days might have you feeling a little sore and tired. Your nerves may be on edge, and you could be more likely than usual to snap at those around you. Try to ease both nerves and muscle aches by soaking in a hot bath.

Herbal tea might also help. Accept that you should take it easy today and then do it!

TAURUS (APR. 20 - MAY 20)

SCORPIO (OCT. 23 - NOV. 21)

You may feel a bit restless and unsettled without really knowing why. Stresses on the job could churn up repressed resentment from the past that you need to release. Try to discern exactly what these stresses remind you of. If you’re unable to do this, however, you’ll probably still reap the benefits of the release.

Stay focused on your work and just let it happen.

Spiritual breakthroughs may have you feeling a little disconcerted. Clearing away deadwood, such as past traumas, might tell you a few things about yourself you’d rather not face. It’s vital to release them in order to progress as a human being. Even if tears are involved, this is a positive development. You’ll feel happier once it’s all set free. Onward and upward!

GEMINI (MAY 21 - JUN. 20)

SAGITTARIUS (NOV. 22 - DEC. 21)

Too many people could be vying for your attention this week. All of them want advice or help. This could be flattering, and you’ll probably want to help them, but it can also be unsettling and make it hard to focus. Don’t let this set your temper on edge and cause you to snap at your friends. Take each request one at a time, make no promises, and do your best.

A conversation of some kind could touch upon some pretty volatile issues. People could disagree to the point that it turns into a shouting match. You probably have strong opinions on this as well, but don’t get involved.

You won’t be able to stop the argument, and it can only cause you stress. If you can, avoid this meeting altogether. Think about it!

CANCER (JUN. 21 - JUL. 22)

CAPRICORN (DEC. 22 - JAN. 19)

There could be trouble brewing in the workplace.

Some of your colleagues neither like nor trust each other and find it impossible to work together. Adjustments are needed if everyone is going to work to the best of their abilities. If you’re in a position to handle this, do it now. If you aren’t, distance yourself from the situation. It’s the only way to stay sane!

Is your significant other caught up in family problems and unable to spend time with you? Don’t let your insecurity get the best of you. Your partner needs to deal with family now. Relax, do what you want to do, and have confidence that you’ll be spending more time together as soon as possible. After dealing with family quarrels, you’ll be a peaceful refuge for your partner.

LEO (JUL. 23 - AUG. 22)

AQUARIUS (JAN. 20 - FEB. 18)

Squabbles may come up between you and a sibling or neighbor. Your ability to compromise is definitely called for here. If you aren’t careful, this could turn into a battle of wills. The minute the disagreement comes up, try to talk it out and turn it into a win/ win situation. Otherwise, things may be said that shouldn’t be, and feelings could remain hurt for a long time.

Matters involving communication seem to be fouled up. Messages may not get delivered, emails may not go through, and people might misinterpret your words.

This could create a mess that brings everything to a screeching halt. You need to speak to people directly, give detailed instructions, use simple language, and make sure they take notes, or beware of the consequences!

VIRGO (AUG. 23 - SEP. 22)

PISCES (FEB. 19 - MAR. 20)

Money matters might cause you a few headaches.

You could be torn between the desire to put money aside for the future and the impulse to buy that jockstrap you’ve wanted for a long time. There may be a way to have it both ways. Save a little less and try to find a bargain price for your undie obsession. Take everything into consideration and work it out before you make yourself crazy.

Your values could oppose those of a business or romantic partner. One of you may be overly pragmatic and the other too idealistic. One seems callous, while the other seems to be living in a dream world. This could be a milestone in your relationship if approached properly. If you can’t create a win/win situation, perhaps you should reconsider the partnership.

58 | 03.28.18

WHAT happened was . . .

What Happened Was...

Trouble in the love department? With sex? Or just people in general? Send us your queries, questions, and problems, and we’ll give you the answers served straight up and with a little ice.

I’m being told more and more by my friends that I have a negative attitude, which I don’t really get. Sure, I don’t mind getting into a discussion or even argument, and I think I am pretty good at making valid arguments, but to go as far as to say I have a negative attitude is a bit far, I think. I think it’s important to have strong opinions and to hold your ground – shouldn’t my friends appreciate that?

Sincerely Head-Strong Never Wrong Dear Head-Strong Never Wrong Have you ever had a friend who continuously needed to be right, and who would go to lengths in proving their own point to be correct? It’s exhausting, right? Have you ever considered that you might be that friend in your circle? From the sound of it, you may be that guy who is always a little too right and maybe even a little opinionated when it comes to discussions and arguments. Remember, friendships are a give and take, and as soon as things get one-sided, that’s when friends start to turn away. There is, of course, the option that your friends are overreacting, but if you are experiencing this from the majority of your friends, there may be smoke because there is indeed a fire. Think about how you communicate with your friends and how you make your arguments – are you too assertive or argumentative which, in turn, could be perceived as negativity? Obviously, there is disconnect here, so start with how you interact first.

I met this guy through mutual friends, and we are hitting it off. The problem is that he is friends with my ex with whom I went through a nasty break-up. Because he is friends with the ex, I keep hearing these pieces of information about what he is up to and who he is dating and so on – and it is killing me! I don’t want to openly display my jealousy to this new guy, but I really don’t want to hear about how well my ex is doing! How do I fix this?

Dear Want to Be OVER It IIt is hard – especially in Atlanta – to completely avoid that your friend circles intersect. In your case, it is regrettable that your new guy is friends with the ex, but that is the risk and conditions of dating in the city. In order not to have your past relationship interfere with your current one, you need to talk to your new guy about the old guy. You owe it to yourself and to your new romantic interest to disclose how this situation is making you feel – letting it fester is not the way to go. Who knows, it may be a litmus test as to how genuine your feelings are for each other: hopefully, he will understand and limit his references to your ex, or maybe he won’t. In either case, you’ll have a better idea of what you are dealing with. But you need to address the jealousy aspect to get over it and move on.

I have sex with my coworker. It started after a company party where we got drunk, and once we were by ourselves, we made out and then went to my place to have sex. Now, we have this crazy sexual chemistry, and we stay at the office late to make out and have had sex in the car several times – but not at one of our places. Neither of us are involved, but the way things are going it doesn’t seem like any of us want to either. It’s so good and such a thrill – but why do I feel like it’s somehow wrong?

Sincerely Business and Pleasure Dear Business and Pleasure Of course, this feels wrong. Even though a hook-up at the workplace is exciting, you need to be very careful. First of all, you need to establish whether there are any company policy rules against what you are doing – even though a hook-up is great, is it worth losing your job over? Most places don’t allow that sort of thing because it is a distraction and interferes with the actual job performance. If there are such rules in place, you need to stop what you are doing immediately as not to jeopardize your income and future work opportunities. If there isn’t a policy against it, you do need to consider whether this is interfering with other aspects of your life. Unless this is a love story of the century scenario, it is generally a good idea to keep work and dating completely separate

Sincerely Want to Be OVER It NEED ANSWERS? REACH OUT TO US, AND YOU WILL GET THEM! SEND YOUR BURNING QUESTIONS VIA OUR EDITOR AT MIKKEL@PEACHATL.COM.

60 | 03.28.18