Peach 30

SERIOUSLY SUMMER Fashion & Grooming

Beat the Heat and Look Cool Being Human with Calum Scott Never Too Hot To Be Thankful

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CONTENTS JULY 25, 2018

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EDITORIAL

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From the Editor Ah, summer in the city! For many, this is the time when the season starts to reach critical mass with sweltering heat, humidity, and the always looming thunderstorm or two.

But you know what? When I came to Atlanta from Copenhagen a little over six years ago in late May, the temperatures were already in the upper 80s and the humidity sky-high. And I loved it! In fact, within that summer season, I realized that it would be difficult for me to live in a place that wasn’t as warm as the South.

Sure, it can be a challenge, and there are days where I can do nothing but seek shade, the indoors or the cooling caress of a pool. Luckily, Atlanta is built around the heat so you can find ample shade, airconditioned comfort, and cooling spaces that will chill you out for a bit.

So find a shady, cool spot with this issue of Peach and enjoy the summertime in Atlanta.

Steve Tyrrell steve@peachatl.com

CONTRIBUTORS Scott King Jamie Kirk Branden Lee Gregg Shapiro

DISTRIBUTION Brian Harmon

NATIONAL AD REP Rivendell Media 908.232.202

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 | 07.25.18

Providers: Joel Rosenstock, MD, MPH • Quinton Robinson, MD •Dennis Melton, MD • Ann Hoos, MD •Anuj Malik, MD •Shalini Patel MD, •David Stahura, DO •Jewel Sawyer, PA-C •Mark Hebert, NP-C •Terry Hackworth, NP •Keith Hood, NP •Allene Harrison, NP-C • Rachna Gadhak, MD •Katherine Liang, FNP

Coca-Cola Summer Film Festival at the Fox Photos: Kate Awtrey Photography, Marvel The Fox Theatre presents its 2018 Coca-Cola Summer Film Festival with its curated mix of family fun, festival favorites, and silver screen classics.

The festival kicks off with the 50th-anniversary screening of the cult-classic “Night of the Living Dead” on Friday, July 27 in partnership with the 9th Annual Atlanta Zombie Pub Crawl.

The remaining program highlights family-friendly films and fan favorites including Dreamwork’s “Trolls,” and sing-a-long screenings of Disney’s “Moana” and “Grease.”

Other favorites include the 50th-anniversary of Barbra Streisand’s “Funny Girl” and Marvel’s “Iron Man.” The festival concludes with the record-breaking blockbuster “Black Panther.”

As in previous years, Coca-Cola Summer Film Festival will showcase films on its impressive 26-foot high x 56-foot-8-inch wide big screen under the “stars” beneath the Fox Theatre’s distinctive blue sky with twinkling stars and fluffy clouds. Select showings will feature a pre-show experience.

For more info and ticketing, visit foxtheatre.org.

Ticket Giveaway!

Check Peach’s Facebook Page for an exclusive ticket giveaway for Marvel’s “Iron Man” on Saturday, July 28, 7 p.m.

The What, When and Where!

What: 2018 Coca-Cola Summer Film Festival When: Friday, July 27, 10 p.m. Night of the Living Dead, 50th-anniversary Saturday, July 28, 10 a.m. Saturday AM Cartoons Saturday, July 28, 7 p.m. Iron Man Thursday, August 2, 7:30 p.m. Funny Girl, 50th-anniversary Saturday, August 11, 2 p.m. Trolls Thursday, August 23, 7:30 p.m. Grease Sing-a-Long, 40th-anniversary Saturday, August 25, 2 p.m. Moana Sing-a-Long Saturday, August 25, 7 p.m. Black Panther Where: The Fox Theatre 8 | 07.25.18

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BENEFITING

KEEPING THE RELATIONSHIP COOL DURING A LONG HOT SUMMER

By Branden Lee Branden Lee is a writer and actor living in Atlanta. Follow Branden on Instagram and Twitter @Brandensss. Watch Branden on his YouTube channel SexxxPerTease.

10 | 07.25.18

The humidity in Atlanta alone is unbearable. Summer 2018 has been sweltering, but hopefully, that’s not preventing you from having fun. With this intolerable heat no one wants to be outside, but when you’re in a relationship, you need to keep things exciting. Here are some ways to stay cool from the heat, but keep the passion burning in your relationship during these sizzling summer months.

1. WORKOUT TOGETHER Ironically, we flock to stay inside to avoid sweating outside, but that doesn’t stop us from wanting to work up a sweat inside in the gym. Gotta stay fit and sexy, especially during pool party and beach season. Going to the gym with your partner is a great way to avoid potential skin cancer from being outside, but still feeling hot and sexy inside. It’s hot watching your man lift, stretch, run, sweat, and workout. A couple that works out together stays looking sexy for each other.

something being released every week. Going to the movies together gives times to snuggle, stay on top of pop culture, be entertained, and avoid this heat.

en’t been inside of yet. Explore what Atlanta has to offer. There’s plenty of art and culture here.

3. DO SOMETHING ACTIVE

Nothing beats the comfort of your own home, snuggled up together, with the air conditioning blasting.

Whether it’s an arcade, skating rink, bowling, or what not, there are plenty of places to have fun in and around Atlanta. Plus you’ll be inside, cooling off, and get to get competitive with each other. It can be a turn on in a relationship... or result in epic fights.

2. GO TO THE MOVIES

4. MUSEUMS

Movie theaters are always blistering cold. Definitely a great place to go to cool off. Plussummer blockbusters are in full swing. There’s always

Maybe you’ve been neglecting the art and culture scene of your city.

Summer is great to finally check out that new exhibit, or finally visit the museum you always pass but hav-

5. STAY HOME

peachATL.com | 11

Filming Injustice, Fighting Discrimination

By Mik Hyldebrandt It was the marriage equality ruling in June of 2015 coupled with reports of businesses discriminating against gay people by refusing services that gave Badar the idea to make a film based on this kind of discrimination. Peach talked to the Pakistani-American filmmaker about his short film Last Lesson, available to stream on revry.tv.

How did you get started making films?

I knew I wanted to be part of the film industry since I was six. I took theatre in high school, but as an actor, I knew I would be limited with the roles I wanted to play because no one was writing roles for South Asian talent. I chose to attend Savannah College of Art and Design and study film. I worked as camera operator at a TV station for a few years and eventually left to pursue entry-level opportunities in Atlanta’s film industry which has been booming over the last few years. I have been fortunate to have worked on some amazing productions. I took this knowledge and experience with me and applied it to my own films.

What is the film about?

Last Lesson is a drama and tells the story of a piano instructor named Carmen, and her struggling student Jacob. When Jacob’s mother find’s out Carmen is a lesbian, she loses her job. At its core, Last Lesson is a reflection on society and how the power of influence can affect us in our lives. It is also about bringing awareness to job discrimination against members of the LGBT communities.

How do you see your role as an Atlanta filmmaker?

Currently, I am the only Pakistani-American filmmaker in Atlanta’s independent film scene. I think that frightens a lot of people, given all the negative news reports on TV. However, the life and experiences I’ve had so far give me a unique perspective on the world, and this is reflected in my work. I have a lot to say and choose film as my medium to express myself. I am in a position where I can use my talents to entertain an audience, while also bringing attention to causes like LGBTQ+ rights.

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Tell us about the collaboration with Revry?

Revry is an LGBTQ digital streaming service platform.

Due to the success of Last Lesson at film festivals (including Atlanta’s Out On Film), and the positive social media reaction, Revry reached out to me and requested a screener to watch the film. They liked it and offered me the chance for Last Lesson to be included among the short films category of their streaming service. After a few discussions, I was honored to sign with them.

Do you have any upcoming projects?

I am currently writing my first feature script. It will focus on Indian-Pakistani communities living in Atlanta. A group which is a growing part of the city, but also extremely underrepresented and ignored in American cinema. Besides my own personal project, I will continue to freelance as an art department assistant and contribute my skills to local productions.

What has been the most surprising thing you have learned from your journey?

Regarding Last Lesson, I surprised myself as to how far I came with this project. This was a very difficult film to make and took me a year to complete. There were moments when obstacles got in the way of the film even happening. However, I was bound and determined to tell this story.

Networking allowed me to meet the right people who genuinely wanted to help and be a part of Last Lesson.

We had a successful screening at Out On Film Festival and won Best Local Short Drama at Atlanta Underground Film Festival 2017. This is an accomplishment which I am truly grateful for. My work was appreciated, and this confirms I need to keep moving forward in my goals and never stop.

Follow Badar on IG and Twitter @badaratl, and on facebook.com/badarofficialpage. Also, check out Last Lesson – and many more LGBTQ-themed films, docs, and shorts – at revry.tv.

WITH US

Hello Again and Again

By Gregg Shapiro

*The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the opinion or position of Peach.

Filmmaker Tom Gustafson and his frequent screenwriting collaborator Cory Krueckeberg (2008’s Were the World Mine and others) definitely had their work cut out for them with their ambitious, but flawed, film adaptation of John Michael LaChiusa’s non-traditional off-Broadway musical Hello Again (The Orchard/Speak), now available on DVD. Based on Arthur Schnitzler’s 1897 play La Ronde, LaChiusa is not the first playwright to have his way, so to speak, with the original play’s overt themes of uninhibited sexuality.

Opening in what looks like the near future, Hello Again begins with Ruth (Martha Plimpton) in a cozy peepshow setting where she swipes a credit card and begins her quest for lost loves, guided along by masked and shirtless Leocadio (Sam Underwood).

The first stop is 1901where hot and horny soldier Les (Nolan Gerard Funk) hooks up with a cross-dressing singing prostitute. In 1944, an ageless Les is getting drunk at a USO dance. There he meets nurse Marie (Jenna Ushkowitz) for a little R&R (ramming and release) and a song.

Looking as if no time has passed at all, the 1967 version of Marie is still in the healthcare biz. This time she’s caring for Alfred (Al Calderon), a privileged college student nursing a sprained ankle. In case you haven’t noticed the established pattern, they have sex and sing to each other. Next, we are transported back in time to 1929 where Al is having an affair with married woman Emily (Rumer Willis). Their usual meeting place is a movie palace where, you guessed it, they have a sexual encounter (and sing).

The 1956 version of Emily is worried that husband Carl (T. R. Knight) is tired of her. Rightfully so since he’s more concerned with making it to the opera on time than making time with his wife. On the Titanic, in 1912, Carl lures younger Jack (Tyler Blackburn),

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who is stuck in third class, to his stateroom. Carl, aware that the ship has hit an iceberg, doesn’t let such a detail get in the way of his pursuit of the young man. Like the Titanic, this segment doesn’t end well.

The Jack of 1976 is a disco twinkie who hooks up with self-absorbed auteur Robert (Cheyenne Jackson) for a night of gay passion back at the filmmaker’s pad.

Not making movies anymore, but still creative, the 2002 Robert is trying to resuscitate the career of diva Sally (Audra McDonald). He’s convinced her to return to the recording studio to make a dance music record to attract some new fans. Of course, the song was written by Robert. But Sally’s not happy with the auto-tune voice manipulation and is on the verge of calling it quits. Robert and Sally have both a professional and romantic history, making for an opportunity for them to have sex in the studio.

As we’re about to come full-circle, we are given a glimpse of Sally’s 1989 affair with a closeted female senator named Ruth (played by, you guessed it, Plimpton). Of course, their love can’t be made public and so both women end up alone and unfulfilled.

In addition to sex, lovers being cruel to each other, especially the men to the women, is another theme that runs through this complicated, non-linear musical. Gustafson does an admirable job of bringing it to screen in that he makes it look good. But, if you loved Were The World Mine (as I did), you will surely be disappointed by Hello Again.

If all of this sounds like too much, consider taking a listen to Hello Again: Original Motion Picture Soundtrack (Broadway Records). You won’t have the visuals (think Jackson’s butt, Funk’s abs and all of Underwood’s body), but you will still get to hear the songs, including dancefloor-ready “Beyond The Moon”, sung by McDonald.

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peachATL.com | 15

Being Human

An Interview With Calum Scott

By Gregg Shapiro

Even if you are not a fan of TV talent show competitions, sometimes they get it right and manage to introduce an artist who is worthy of your attention. Calum Scott, who was a finalist on Britain’s Got Talent (he finished sixth) is one such example. A blue-eyed soul singer in the mold of Sam Smith, Scott’s exquisite reimagining of Robyn’s “Dancing on My Own” as a ballad hinted at his great taste in music. That song, as well as a reading of Bob Dylan’s “Not Dark Yet” can both be found of Scott’s full-length debut album Only Human (Capitol). In addition to being indicative of his interpretation skills, they also demonstrate his vocal abilities – the guy can sing! Scott’s also a decent songwriter, as you can hear on the Leona Lewis duet “You Are the Reason” and the rhythmic “Give Me Something”. Currently on a US concert tour, Scott was gracious enough to take the time to answer a few questions.

You first crossed most people’s radar when you competed on season nine of Britain’s Got Talent on which you performed a ballad version of Robyn’s “Dancing on My Own”. Please tell the readers why you chose that song.

I’m a fan of Robyn’s. I love all the music she put out. Obviously, “Dancing on My Own” is one of those songs that is super-relatable. We all know what unrequited love feels like. I was a fan of that song way before the audition. On the path to discovering my own voice, I had come across a ballad version of the song. Kind of without thinking, I remembered the lyrics to the song and pressed (the) record (button) on the little home studio that I built. It felt so honest. Another thing I did was not change the pronouns.

It came from the perspective of myself, a gay man who was desperate for love, and always seemed to be falling in love with the straight guy [laughs].

Photo: Frank Ockenfels

16 | 07.25.18

Not only did I personally relate to the song, but in my rendition, I tried to make it my own. I think, in a ballad version, where you strip away the beat and the production that makes you want to dance around, you can hear how heartbreaking the song is. It jumped out and hit me in the chest, really, because I personally related to it. It made sense. I remember recording it and playing it for my mom and my sister. I knew I had found something very powerful.

You included the Tiesto mix of “Dancing on My Own” on your debut album Only Human. Was that done as a nod to Robyn and the original version?

Yes, of course. I pay tribute to Robyn all the time. Every time I post about the song, I always include her. She’s an incredible songwriter who not only helped so many people with the way she sang the song, but she affected me in a way that allowed me to retell the story. It just shows you the power of songwriting. I wanted to make sure the song was on my album. The way that Tiesto put the song back into production similar to Robyn’s, it’s come full circle. I want to give thanks to him as well for putting me under people’s noses who may never have heard the ballad, reintroducing me and Robyn to a whole new audience. I’m a very grateful person.

Excluding the Robyn and beautiful Bob Dylan covers, you cowrote the remaining 11 songs on the album. How would you describe your role in the songwriting process?

When I first started writing music, which wasn’t so long after (appearing on) Britain’s Got Talent, probably in September 2015, I was writing songs about going to the clubs and partying [laughs]. All the things I expected people wanted to hear. You listen to the radio and you hear all these feel-good songs. I guess that’s what I thought songwriting was, writing for the people. It wasn’t until I started writing personal and honest songs about my childhood, the issues I had with my sexuality growing up, all that kind of stuff; when I started writing about that, suddenly it made sense. I started to write more sensitive songs. Some of the songs I’ve written are anthems for people struggling with their own sexuality.

It’s a huge privilege to be able to help people with what I went through, the similar circumstances. I would say my role in the writing of this album was integral. I wrote songs that were honest because I wanted to relate to my audience. I still consider myself a very normal guy who experiences emotions like everybody else, has my heart broken like everybody else. Part of the success of this story is because I’m still very normal and relatable. I wanted to make something that was a reflection of who I was and an album that I could stand by and say, “This is my story.

It’s no smoke and mirrors. It’s just me.”

The album closes with a duet version of “You Are the Reason” on which you sing with Leona Lewis. What was it about Leona that made you want to sing a duet with her?

She’s a superstar, first and foremost; from her personality to her singing capabilities. We were introduced organically; Leona and I have both worked with a very prolific

songwriter in America called Diane Warren. Diane had emailed me to say she had just worked with Leona on this duet and that we would be perfect together; two Brits.

She said, “Let me introduce you”. We were introduced by email and I was like, “Oh, my God, I just got an email from Leona Lewis” [laughs]. I emailed back and she sent me some of the stuff she had been working on. I sent her “You Are the Reason” and asked her what she thought of it. She said, “This is beautiful. Can I be a part of it?”

Hell yes [laughs]! My A&R sent her the song and she sent it back. I was picking my jaw up from the floor. I’m in awe of her. To watch Leona on her journey and see her become a superstar around the world and then for her to be singing one of my songs, it was a very emotional and surreal moment.

In the last couple of weeks, I’ve been to concerts by Culture Club and Erasure. As a gay artist, would you consider Boy George and Andy Bell to be influences?

Yes, of course! I was actually just watching a documentary on Freddie Mercury. In the same vain with those guys, it wasn’t necessarily spoken about as openly as now.

We’ve come to a really good time in the world where more and more people are speaking out about the issues we have in the community. Those issues are becoming less and less. Unfortunately, they do still exist in some places and religions. We will get there, I think. People like Boy George and Freddie Mercury and George Michael, artists like those, contributed to the movement for people to be educated and understand that the LGBT community is exactly the same as everybody else. Love is love. That’s why I wrote the songs that I did for my album. It was terrifying for me write some of the songs about my sexuality because I had suppressed it for such a long time. Being in the Northeast of England, being abandoned by friends when I told them. I really had it rough. Alongside that, Sam Smith and Troye Sivan and all these other artists that are keeping that conversation alive about LGBT issues moves the world forward. Music is the language of the universe, I feel. It can translate how we feel through music. Boy George, in his image and music, did make that movement more powerful. We’re not going anywhere!

You are currently on a US concert tour. What can people who attend your show expect to experience?

I had my very first show last night, which felt incredible! It was with Pentatonix here in Salt Lake City. As the opening act, I performed in front of about 8,000 people. I was really nervous. I didn’t expect the kind of welcome that I got. It was the best feeling ever. My face was aching by the end from smiling so much. Like my album, people can expect very honest and raw songs. I’ve stripped it back to just me and a piano. The message will be plain as day to hear. As you can tell, I don’t stop talking [laughs]. I refer to my songs and give a bit of a story about each one. People are going to hear a little bit about me as an artist and a person and the songs that I have created as the person I am today. It’s privilege to be able to be in front of such an incredible crowd and to tell my story.

peachATL.com | 17

Beat the Heat and Look Sharp

By Mikkel Hyldebrandt

Finding the right outfit for the hot summer season can be quite the puzzle – but luckily we’re here to help you put it all together so you look cool when it’s sweltering.

All styles available at Boy Next Door Menswear either at the Piedmont location or online at boynextdoormenswear.com.

Andrew Christian Mykonos Net Sleeveless Hoodie, $39 • Publish Francisco Shorts Navy, $66 • Mission Hole Punched Tank Navy, $39 • Andrew Christian California Collection Playa Shorts, $65• Spitfire Urbanism Sunglasses Black, $49• Spitfire Echo Beach Sunglasses Rainbow, $49

18 | 07.25.18

A T N A L T A K I CK OFFI CIAL

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FRIDAY 10 -12 -18 7 PM - 11:30 PM DJ MARK GORDON (ATLANTA) DJ KEVIN DURARD (ATLANTA)

$30 ADVANCE /$40 DOOR/$90 LOUNGE PURCHASE TICKETS AT WWW.GEORGIAAQUARIUM.ORG/ATLANTAPRIDE THIS EVENT WILL SELL OUT, GET YOUR TICKETS TODAY!

Mission Black Gold Fondue Botton Down Shirt, $59 • Nena And Pasadena Commander Short Dusty Olive, $85 • Stud Deuce Shorts Neon Green, $59.99 • Mission Neon Mesh Overlay Tee, $44 • Spitfire Urbanism Sunglasses Tan, $49

All styles available at Boy Next Door Menswear either at the Piedmont location or online at boynextdoormenswear.com.

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A SORDID THREE RING

starring Leslie Jordan, Del Shores, and Ann Walker

Saturday, August 25, 2018 VIP Reception: 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. • Show 8:00 p.m.

Centerstage • 1374 West Peachtree St, NW • Atlanta, GA 30309

Purchase tickets online: centerstage-atlanta.com A BENEFIT FOR

FOURTH TUESDAY AT LA CARRETA Photos: Sher Pruitt

26 | 07.25.18

The Human Rights Campaign invites you to our second annual tennis social Serving​for​Equality! Players of all skill levels are welcome to participate in this fun doubles event, and will receive a gift bag with a retail value of over $40.

Don’t have a doubles partner? We will pair you up with other players and you can make some new friends along the way. Each ticket purchased goes towards HRC’s important mission of LGBTQ equality in Atlanta and across the country.

Not a tennis player? That’s okay! Join us as a spectator. We will have beats from DJ Neon the Glowgobear, food from Shane’s Rib Shack, fresh pops from King of Pops, cocktails, a silent auction and a photo booth to enjoy while you cheer on your friends as they serve aces for equality.

Saturday,​July​28nd,​2018​ Sharon​Lester​Tennis​Center​|​Piedmont​Park 400 Park Drive, Atlanta, GA 30306

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Charles is a rare ATL native with a six-year stint in Los Angeles. He currently works in sourcing for a pharma company, and as a diehard Spiderman fan, he also has a deeply rooted passion in film. Travel is everything to the recently single Atlantan who enjoys hiking and camping over going out on the town – but he also loves a good reality show viewed from the couch. Catch him on IG @charlesbslylar – and take his recommendation to get a few laughs by following @gaysofatlanta.

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peachATL.com | 29

Look Cool When It’s HOT

By Mikkel Hyldebrandt It’s time for a seasonal trim that will not only look good on you but will help to keep you cool when temperatures are high.

Hair

Up the Frequency

Longer hair is logically warmer on the head, but as long as you keep the sides and the back of the head short, you should be able to stay cool(er). You will probably also need to wash your hair more frequently because you need to clean sweat and sebum from hair and scalp.

Heat, sweat, and sun will all have most men wanting a fresh cut and trim more frequently, so in the summer months up the frequency of your beard trims and haircuts to about three weeks apart.

Triumph & Disaster All Natural Shampoo, $30

Beard

Facial hair works like hair on the head to retain moisture and heat.

You can still keep a full beard but consider trimming it down a little for the warmer months – you will feel the difference! Keep it clean by washing it with a face wash, and keep it soft with a few drops of oil.

Panacea Daily Facial Cleanser, $16 Proraso Beard Oil Azur Lime, $16

Body Hair

There’s no need to get a full body wax, but even a slight trim of your body hair – underarm and groin area especially – will significantly reduce the risk of body odor.

Sunscreen and Bronzing

If you want to keep up your good looks, you need to take good care of your skin, and sunscreen is the best thing you can do to future-proof your looks.

If you want a deeper tan, try a self-tanner – the key is to exfoliate the skin before use for an even result.

St. Tropez Self-Tan Mousse, $42

30 | 07.25.18

Philips Norelco Body Groomer, $50

Keep It Up

Looking this good – trimmed, clean-cut, and nicely tanned – feels good, so keep it up even after summer is over. Your surroundings will surely notice and appreciate the better groomed you!

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It’s Never Too Hot To Say Thanks!

By Jamie Kirk Given we are knee-deep in summer and distractions are aplenty, I thought it would be a good time to pause and list 20 things we should be thankful for. Every single one may not apply to you, but I just thought the list could focus us for at least four minutes before our next skinny-dip in the pool!

11. … for all five faculties of sight, hearing, touch, taste, and smell.

12. … for people in our lives that motivate and uplift us.

13. … for the people that give us unwanted but needed feedback.

Be Thankful…

14.

1. … for the folks in our life that are making us better.

2. … for our mental and spiritual health.

3. … for our family and friends, both near and far.

4. … for our employment or ability to attend school.

… for our mates, partners, wives, husbands that love us when we are unlovable.

15. … for this publication and the team that makes it happen week after week.

16. … for our democracy (just humor me).

17. … that with age comes wisdom.

18. … that you have survived everything that tried to kill you.

5. … for the gift of insight.

19. … for your past.

6.

20. But most of all be thankful for this mo-

… for our strength (and I just don’t mean physical).

7. … for transportation to & fro.

ment because, in a split second, your life could change forever.

8. … for our ability to read and write.

9. … to the people that said “no” in our lives.

10. … to the people that said “yes” in our lives.

34 | 07.25.18

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

peachATL.com | 35

Is There Life Out There?

How To Keep It Real, Real Fun On Summer Road Trips OTP

By Scott King

Scott King’s milkshake brings all the boys to the yard. He could teach you, but he’d have to repeal and replace. Scott King is, like, a really smart person.

You down with OTP? Yeah, you know me.

Cars are sexy. They go vroom vroom. They get you from here to there. And they will, one day, fucking MURDER you.

But enough bombast. Let’s have some fun! Pack that silver backpack you got at H&M, and let’s hit the road.

Once you get outside the perimeter, things get a bit hairy.

The locals are friendly, but surreptitious. Don’t turn your Grindr on until you get to dinner. Then don’t check it until bedtime. That’s the only way to sort out the thirsty from the opportunistic.

Speaking of thirst traps, I’ve made a couple of trips up to Asheville, North Carolina, over the past couple of months. What a great drinking town!

First trip, first thing we did was make friends with the help. I mean the lady at the hotel and then the lady at the bar. I am now friends with both of them on Facebook. It’s not weird at all. There was really no talent (as in cutie people) at any of the bars or restaurants we went to before the concert we were there to see. Me and my hot foxy female date were the most alluring pieces of ass on the block. It was a sad situation.

Once we got to the concert though, holy bro balls!

Hotties everywhere. Yummy beers and even yummier bears.

The straight guys were the least annoying version of hipster I’ve ever seen, of any gender or orientation. They were serving a clean cut lewk, but you could tell they had been to both a record store and a bookstore in the past year.

And the gay boys! So soft and sweet and cuddly in their 90’s hoodie-wearing alternative empathetic Clintonian realness. Everyone was friendly in our drunken wooden balcony section. The guys would brush their arm up against my arm as we were dancing and asking me what song they were playing. Isn’t that adorable? Going potty afterward, the guy next to me at the urinals said,

36 | 07.25.18

to no bro in particular, with a friendly thickness to his Southern accent, “Duuude! That was a good fuckin’ concert.”

More recently, I went up to visit some peeps I hadn’t seen in forever. They were road-tripping it with their fouryear-old son, whom I had never met before. Yes, it had been that long.

Again, there was really no talent on the streets of Asheville, so we spent a decent amount of our time in our host’s kitchen drinking strong coffee and shooting the bull.

It was heaven. When we did go out, my straight friend and I had a contest to see who could get hit on the most.

We tied.

An afternoon out spent eating and drinking and cruising hot homeless guys carrying around full rotisserie chickens ended in a little pajama time at the house.

This was the best part of the day. No need for tears or sentiment. We had kept it real. Real safe.

So, the moral of the story is, sun setting in our eyes as we are driving due west: do what you love, and you will have no choice but to love what you do.

When you’re out there on the road, whether you are seeking locations foreign or domestic, sights exotic or banal, experiences novel or familiar, don’t do anything just because it’s what you’re supposed to do. You do you, and all your prosaic dreams will come true.

If you are a badass troublemaker at home, get into trouble abroad. Or, with a broad. If you are nervous and shy on the domestic front, don’t be embarrassed to be fed up with it all just because you are gay and away.

Your friends are used to it. Your anger and frustration will help you find the quickest route to the best restaurant.

Everyone will get drunker and happier, and you will find peace.

Don’t do anything I wouldn’t do.

...love is our only weapon

Celebrate the Queen of Pop turning 60 this year!

Dance and sing, get up and do your thing to the best dance remixes of all your Madonna favorites.

THE HERETIC AUG 4 10 PM - 3 AM

DJ MIKE POPE

July 25 – August 1

CASH CASH

SPIN! The Category 5 Dance Party

The electronic music group will visit Opera Nightclub DJ Daniel Weaver returns to the Eagle for a High to present a stunning show and a lineup featuring Energy Dance Party that will blow your wigs off. Gird their biggest hits. Get ready to dance all night! your loins, boys!

Friday, July 27, 10pm-3am Opera Nightclub

STAFF PICK!

July 28 The Atlanta Eagle

Serving for Equality The Human Rights Campaign invites you to our their annual tennis social where you can partake either as a tennis player or spectator. Food, cocktails, King of Pops, and beats by DJ Canvas plus much more will make this a day an ace. Tickets through act.hrc.org.

Saturday, July 28, 6-11pm Sharon Lester Tennis Center

Atlanta Disco Society II

2018 AV200 and Field Day Closing Party

This is the second edition of the dance party that Join the AV200 riders, sponsors, and beneficiaries offers a night of glamour, debauchery, and disco as they present funds to the four recipients: Emory dancing.

Vaccine Center, Jerusalem House, Positive Impact, and H.E.R.O.

Saturday, July 28, 10 pm The Basement

38 | 07.25.18

July 29, 2-5pm Names Project Foundation

SUPER HEROES & VILLIANS AT THE EAGLE PHOTOS: Brian McCall

40 | 07.25.18

peachATL.com | 41

BACKPACK IN THE PARK PHOTOS:Thomas Le

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MIDTOWN 1

Monroe Dr. NE

14

Amsterdam Ave.

12th St. NE

NE ve . tA

Piedmont Park

on

11

dm

6

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 | 07.25.18

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

’ Cheshire 23

ansley 21

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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 Midtown Moon 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

.

Dining 24 Las Margaritas 25 Roxx

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39 38

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

41

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.

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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

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

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.

MIDTOWN

EAST ATLANTA, GRANT PARK Retail & EDGEWOOD MIDTOWN MARY’S

amsterdamatlanta.com

1287 Glenwood Ave SE

Bars & Clubs AMSTERDAM

502 Amsterdam Ave. NE

ATLANTA EAGLE

marysatlanta.com

SISTER LOUISA’S CHURCH

BARKING LEATHER AFTER DARK barkingleather.com

306 Ponce De Leon Ave NE

sisterlouisaschurch.com

CHESHIRE

SWINGING RICHARDS

BARKING LEATHER

1400 Northside Dr NW

805 Lambert Dr NE

BULLDOGS

Dining

2205 Cheshire Bridge Rd NE

FRIENDS NEIGHBORHOOD BAR

MIDTOWN

736 Ponce De Leon Ave NE

communitashospitality.com

atlantaeagle.com

306 Ponce De Leon Ave NE

BLAKE’S ON THE PARK

blakesontheparkatlanta.com 227 10th St NE

893 Peachtree St NE

friendsonponce-atl.com

466 Edgewood Ave SE

swingingrichards.com

10TH & PIEDMONT

MODEL T

991 Piedmont Ave NE

699 Ponce De Leon Ave NE

einsteinsatlanta.com

modeltatlanta.com

EINSTEIN’S

MY SISTER’S ROOM

1077 Juniper St NE

66 12th St NE

frogsmidtown.com

mysistersroom.com

TEN ATLANTA

tenatlanta.com

990 Piedmont Ave NE

CHESHIRE

SOUTHERN NIGHTS VIDEO

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

GCB & PLEASURES

brushstrokesatlanta.com 1510 Piedmont Ave. NE

FROGS CANTINA

Fitness

931 Monroe Dr

MIDTOWN

G’S

communitashospitality.com 219 10th St NE

HERETIC

HENRY’S

2069 Cheshire Bridge Road

132 10th St NE

BJ ROOSTERS

JOE’S ON JUNIPER

hereticatlanta.com

barkingleather.com

henrysatl.com

URBAN BODY FITNESS urbanbodyfitness.com

500 Amsterdam Ave NE

CHESHIRE GRAVITEE FITNESS graviteeatl.com

bjroosters.com

joesonjuniper.com

2043 Cheshire Bridge Road NE

1049 Juniper St NE

OPUS 1

LA HACIENDA

Spas/Baths/Adult

900 Monroe Dr NE

MIDTOWN

1931 Piedmont Circle N

CHESHIRE

FLEX SPA

WOOFS

LAS MARGARITAS

76 4th St NW

2425 Piedmont Road NE

1842 Cheshire Bridge Rd NE

CHESHIRE

ANSLEY

ROXX

MANIFEST 4U

MIDTOWN MOON

1824 Cheshire Bridge Rd NE

1492 Piedmont Ave NE

ANSLEY

FELIX’S

COWTIPPERS

1086 Alco St NE

TRIPPS

woofsatlanta.com

1510 Piedmont Ave NE

lahaciendamidtown.com

lasmargaritasmidtown.com

cowtippersatlanta.com

THE HIDEAWAY

1600 Piedmont Ave NE

1544 Piedmont Ave NE

DEKALB

MIXX

LIPS ATLANTA

1492 Piedmont Ave NE

3011 Buford Hwy NE

mixxatlanta.com

OSCAR’S

oscarsatlanta.com

1510 Piedmont Ave NE

52 | 07.25.18

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manifest4u.org

2103 Faulkner Rd NE

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Email jeff@peachatl.com for more information. peachATL.com | 53

10 THINGS THAT ARE PERFECT FOR SUMMER IN ATLANTA

IT DOESN’T MATTER WHETHER YOU ARE VISITING OR LIVE HERE PHOTOS: SHUTTERSTOCK

Visit MLK’s home

Walk the Beltline

Hang out in Piedmont Park Cool down at the Aquarium

Visit a local brewery

Eat wings!

Find a favorite BBQ place

Shoot the hooch!

Go to the Mercedes-Benz Stadium for a game 54 | 07.25.18

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

The moment you realize u need a whole new life cause this one ain’t cutting it.

Asking for friend: who is this friend everyone keeps asking questions for?

Me: I’d like to add guacamole to my order.

Cashier: Guac is extra.

The most common cause of stress in my life is dealing with idiots.

Me: I know. So am I.

Why do I always bump into hot guys when I’m dressed like a homeless person carrying 5 tubs of ice cream, but never when I look like a snack!

So it’s official: the beach will get whatever body I give it this year!

I enjoy people who point out which letters are capitalized in their email address.

Funny guys are dangerous. They’ll make you laugh, and laugh and laugh, and then boom, you’re naked!

Every day I understand the phrase “I’m too old for this shit!” better and better.

56 | 07.25.18

ARIES (MAR. 21 - APR. 19)

LIBRA (SEP. 23 - OCT. 22)

Someone you care about but haven’t seen for a long time could suddenly contact you. You’d usually love this but you could be too caught up in projects of your own to want to put them aside. But you will have a lot of fun with this person, and you might even interest him or her in your project. After finishing your work, go out to dinner.

You should be looking especially attractive lately and glowing with robust health. You’re apt to feel warm and loving, particularly toward small animals. If you’ve considered adopting a pet, this is a good time to do it. Business, work, and money matters continue to go well. You should be in a pretty good space. This frame of mind should last you a long time.

TAURUS (APR. 20 - MAY 20)

SCORPIO (OCT. 23 - NOV. 21)

A goal that you’ve been working on could finally be reached. A group of friends you might not have seen for a long time could schedule a get-together that you will be all too glad to attend. Expect to have a lot of fun exchanging news and ideas with these people. You will probably feel particularly happy to see them. You won’t want to let so much time go by before you reconnect again.

You should be feeling especially warm and loving toward close friends and children. You could also especially appreciate the arts. You might attend a play or concert or decide to try your hand at one of the fine arts yourself. In the evening, go out and enjoy your friends’ company. Celebrate just being together!

GEMINI (MAY 21 - JUN. 20)

SAGITTARIUS (NOV. 22 - DEC. 21)

You could meet some interesting new people this week. Among them is at least one person who shares a lot of your interests and could become a close friend. The joy you receive from meeting these people is likely to spill over into the rest of your day.

You could be warmer and more congenial with everyone else in your life, too. In the evening, go out and have some fun.

This week you might decide to buy a plant for every room in your house or plant a garden. If the weather is good, you might visit a nursery or the Atlanta Botanical Gardens. You may not normally be attracted to plants and gardens, but both beauty and nature seem especially appealing. Make the most of this, however temporary. Your house will look that much more beautiful because of it!

CANCER (JUN. 21 - JUL. 22)

CAPRICORN (DEC. 22 - JAN. 19)

A book or movie about a foreign country could capture your imagination and make that country seem especially appealing. You might toy with the idea of taking a trip there soon. If you’re serious, it might be a good idea to start making your plans. You’re in a particularly practical frame of mind and have the enthusiasm to do it. Have fun browsing through travel brochures and maps.

A warm and loving communication could come to you this week from someone close. This could be an email, call, or even a gift of some kind. This could make your day, and you will probably pass whatever good feelings you draw from it to other friends and family members.

Take a walk around your neighborhood and say hello to whomever you meet. It will make you feel even better!

LEO (JUL. 23 - AUG. 22)

AQUARIUS (JAN. 20 - FEB. 18)

Someone close who owes you money might suddenly turn up and repay you. This might be a surprise, but you will be glad to get it. You may want to blow some of it by taking a friend out to lunch or buying someone a gift. Some beautiful dreams could haunt your sleep tonight, perhaps to the point where you feel frustrated when you wake up. Write them down. They’re saying something about you.

A very welcome sum of extra money could come your way, possibly out of the blue. You might want to put this money to work for you in some way, perhaps investing it or purchasing supplies or materials for personal projects. You should feel especially positive where your resources are concerned, and confident in your ability to earn.

VIRGO (AUG. 23 - SEP. 22)

PISCES (FEB. 19 - MAR. 20)

This week you should feel especially warm and loving toward everyone close to you, particularly a love partner. You may want to spend some time with friends or family or schedule a romantic evening with your significant other - or both. If you have paperwork to take care of, this is the day to do it. You’re particularly practical and feeling good, so the drudgery won’t get you down.

This week you may feel especially warm and loving toward just about everybody in your circle, even those you usually find irritating. You could also be looking especially attractive and feeling more confident than usual. You might even feel like shopping for new clothes.

Artistic ideas could flow freely, and you might think of different ways to put them to work for you.

58 | 07.25.18

WHAT happened was . . .

What Happened Was...

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

I have started seeing this guy, and while we connect beautifully on an intellectual level, we have issues in the bedroom. Or at least I think so, because it seems like he doesn’t even realize that I’m not into it. If things don’t change I’ll have to end things, but I really like him, so what can I do to let him know that the sex isn’t that great (yet)?

Sincerely HeadBanger Dear HeadBanger Sexual chemistry or connection isn’t a give-in even when it feels like you connect with someone. Sometimes the connection has problems traveling from your head into your body – and yes, that can become an issue! If you can establish that you are genuinely attracted to him, there are luckily plenty of things you can do to change things up. Start by giving subtle hints when in bed. Your moans and little cues of ‘yeah, that feels good,’ or ‘do more of that’ will point him in the right direction without being confrontational. The same will be moving his hands where you want them to be. Or positioning your body.

Subtle feedback like that will communicate your desires without being blunt. Afterward, you can talk about what you really liked and hone him in on what turned you on.

Let him now that you enjoy how you can connect body to body too. If things don’t change significantly, you may need to talk to him more directly about the issue, but that is a tough one because no one likes to be told that they are bad in bed.

Dear Pan’s Labyrinth Pansexual is not a new term, but it has been used more frequently lately to describe a sexual or emotional attraction towards a person without regard to their gender identity or orientation. In a way, it can be viewed as a more inclusive continuation of being bi-sexual, which, as the term suggests, is very much linked to either one of the genders – but many do use them interchangeably. As you have discovered, sexuality is a complicated thing, and it is really great that you have taken the time to evaluate where you fall on the sexual spectrum. That being said, it may take time for your friends to understand – especially if their notion of sexuality is more of a binary concept. And yes, you need to educate them! You start by telling them that even joking and borderline mocking remarks are not ok and that they make you uncomfortable. Next is talking to your friends. Let them ask all the questions – even the awkward ones! – and do your best to answer honestly and openly. Encourage them to read up on the ins and outs of modern-day sexuality because obviously, they are stuck on a more traditional definition of being a sexual minority.

Hopefully, you will be able to enlighten your friends and move forward with a more informed group of friends!

I want to meet a cute and nice guy, but I’m over all the hook-up apps. I want to connect with someone! Are there any apps that are good for that?

Sincerely Seeking Mr. Right Dear Seeking Mr. Right

I think I may identify as pansexual because I am attracted to both men and women – or rather people!

Right now I’m dating a guy, and our friends (mostly gay) make fun of me and almost mock me saying that I’m just gay and should not be afraid just to be gay. But that’s not the issue, and I genuinely feel like I fall for a person and not a gender. What can I do to educate my friends a little bit better?

Sincerely Pan’s Labyrinth

Even though the hookup apps are dominating, there are still a few apps that focus more on dating than hooking up. On Tinder, you can set your preferences (including men seeking men), but an even better alternative is the new Chappy that’s like a gay Tinder. It connects to your Facebook and pulls photos from there (so no naughty stuff), and you can choose between three tiers of ‘connectivity’ – Mr. Right Now, Mr. Who Knows, and Mr. Right. So maybe that is where you will find yours?

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

60 | 07.25.18

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