Peach Magazine V4-27 - Say It Louder

Keiynan Lonsdale’s Black Queerness DeďŹ ance, social uprising, and Identity

The Thrill of the Horror Hallowed Be Thy Name

A Broken System Within A Broken System Observations of An Unapologetic Black Man

Contents JULY 15, 2020

V4-27

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EDITORIAL

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Mikkel Hyldebrandt Editorial Director mikkel@peachatl.com Brian Sawyer

From the Editor

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Summer is here, and if everything hadn’t been interrupted by a global pandemic, you would probably have been getting ready to attend the annual Joining Hearts Pool Party at Piedmont Park. As a social highlight of the Atlanta Summer season, its cancellation is a bummer, but seeing COVID-19 cases spike, there is no doubt that it was the right decision.

So, after lamenting another missed social Summer gathering, why don’t you go to JoiningHearts.org and support their work with a donation – just like you would when buying a ticket for the party. Their work of raising awareness and funds to support the prevention, care, and housing assistance to those impacted by HIV/AIDS in Atlanta is ongoing, and without their number one annual fundraiser, they need your help now more than ever.

SALES | DISTRIBUTION Andrea Dwyer andrea@peachatl.com

CONTRIBUTORS Chris Azzopardi J. Tebias Perry

NATIONAL AD REP Rivendell Media | 908.232.2021

Black Lives Matter Mikkel Hyldebrandt | Editorial Director IG @hyldebrandt ONLINE

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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.

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Mikkel is the editor of Peach. You can follow him @hyldebrandt on Instagram

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OPINION

A BROKEN SYSTEM WiTHiN A BROKEN SYSTEM

By J. Tebias Perry

These are my personal observations and experiences.

Change is probable, and there is always hope for it, but do we always use it? In 1997, as I screamed from my balcony at the corner of 10th and Piedmont, “We’re here, we’re queer, get used to it!,” I reveled in my freedom as a liberated gay man. I was starstruck with how massive the city was, welcoming me as a new fresh face with new ideas and new dreams. Little did I know that the dream that I had of being sexually free and open to be myself came with limits and restraints.

It also came with so many boundaries that separated the gay flag to the point where it would make me think twice about even being gay, open, or in the closet.

The real obstacle has never been the fact that I was hated traditionally by “breeders,” but for being a samegender-loving man who happened to fall in love with the white guy. The real hatred was revealed at that time. And when I dated an Arab. And a Latino. Talking about shit hitting the fan!

Long before I came along with my “interracial infraction,“ Black guys and white guys have been intertwined. Finding creative ways to fuck in an alley, in cars, at the movies, or behind the house while the wife and kids slept. Shhhhhh, be quiet. The gay community’s history is long and rich with the Marlon Brandos that openly dated famous Black men who were comedians, singers, and even writers. There was 10 | follow us @ peachatlmag

no shame that Brando was known for his huge pickle and not being afraid to use it as a weapon on black and brown men. The difference is that he was proud of the conquer and spoke of it as trophies. Then you have Bayard Rustin, who was the chief organizer of the 1963 March on Washington. He was caught banging in the back seat of a car during the late 50s, spent 60 days in jail, and was unapologetic.

He exclusively dated older white guys. Who cares?

Obviously, some did but not Bayard! This is the type of advocacy that I yearn to represent and be a part of, not smiling, or laughing with the masses. But as a gay community, we can’t even get that shit right!

My mixture of friends would tell me, “wake the fuck up, Tebias, this is the South! Black guys don’t date white guys here. We go to Bulldog’s, The Palace, Lorreta’s, Django, Phase 1, or the Marquette!” Hearing this over and over again only gave me the tenacity to change the narrative.

That unwelcoming feeling was something that I just got used to. I can recall a time standing at the bar in the serving area and waiting almost 30 minutes to be served. The hard part is learning that patience really is a fucking virtue! Racism was visibly present and physically; I only got secondhand messages from the bartenders and other white friends that overheard the names they called me. www.peachatl.com

business trip in Vancouver. Your secret is safe with an app! Most white guys who are successful, including those that are very rich, tend to compartmentalize our blackness from our speech to our level of our own culture.

In my awareness of myself as a man, I’ve noticed that for Black guys that are successful, there is a level of success the other white guys would dare to date. If I am too successful, they will look the other way. In an attempt to dominate, the question of my career is sometimes the first question. Some would say it’s an icebreaker; I say it’s bullshit.

A small-town boy with big dreams was used to white privilege and a galvanized perspective on racism.

Privilege is a constant, and it’s always reminded me of back home. The South is not the only heavily gay racist populated part of this fucked-up country. The worst times that I have seen white privilege and racism is during our pride celebrations; New York, DC, LA, Atlanta, New Orleans, and Dallas. I’ve witnessed it time and time again as if I can see it like smoke in the air. The fumes of this poison seep into the eyes and ears of my white brothers and sisters from birth.

Your privilege is stamped on your skin like a bad tattoo. They are raised this way to see black as a threat and something that must be conquered. This country is built on violence, and they learned it from their forefathers. I’ve always thought that white people would gain more insight if they were forced to learn our black history as we were forced to learn the lies of theirs.

Think about it: Overtly successful CNN commentators, actors, and fitness gurus have reached a level of success where, in gay culture, ONLY a white man would do. Is that the level of success that pressures their choice or is that their true course of finding authentic love? It could possibly be both, but I vowed to myself that I would never shrink who I was as a black man for no one; black or white. My passion for my blackness comes as a complete package not minus one or two things the others may disagree with. I have come to appreciate the beauty of being different than what I am attracted to yet holding my southern values in the strongest grip. I know what it feels like to be the only one in the room, the only one at the table and the only one in the classroom.

As Black Lives Matter murals decorate our cities, parks, including 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue, the world is watching like porn. Nothing will change the trajectory of forward thinkers and people constantly educating themselves to rid racism more so than just doing it.

So listen up all Midtown white, gay, queer, cisgender males; including a few Karens; your time is up and the time is now for you to educate and empower yourself with what makes us a better gay community.

Far too many times, I see our young brown and black people shrink themselves to make white people feel comfortable. The reason they feel so comfortable is because they’ve never had to feel uncomfortable or be forced to recognize it. The ones who regularly exercise their racism and their privilege recognize it and use it freely! No one has ever had to correct them. Now, systemic racism has a hole in it, and the Black Lives Matter movement is draining it dry, pushing comfort to a boil. The world is being force-fed the same slop that made it fat on leftovers that it forced my ancestors to eat. A huge mirror is being shoved into the faces of those who hide behind patriotism and Making America Great Again.

A well-known Midtown bar showed the perfect depiction of the division between the gay community five years ago when they posted a sign in their window on 10th St. The notable depiction of its description pointed fingers directly to our minority community. The list was very long and very descriptive. No hoodies, no oversize earrings, no oversize tank tops, no dark sunglasses, no athletic wear, no headphones, and, more importantly, no bad attitudes. Bad attitudes? I couldn’t believe that it was posted, so I walked over to witness it for myself.

I took a picture of it and instantly became very angry!

Racial tensions have fueled Atlanta for many years, and I know that there’s room for growth, but the white community refuses to mend this gap.

But we sometimes put our necks in the jaws of the lion.

Other cultures have always been fascinated and have capitalized on our black culture, plucking away from it like figs in a tree. The more I noticed their strategy of trying to control our blackness through means of benefits that ends with a “0”, the more cautious it made me of their true intentions. For those shameless businessmen and career “enthusiasts “who populate the 30303 to the 30312, how proud are you that you only entertain us during the hours of 12 AM to 6 AM?

J. Tebias Perry is an Atlanta-based writer, activist, While begging for the biggest “BBC” on Grindr, Scruff, and leatherman. This article marks his debut as a or Jack’ed, your husband is texting you from his contributor to Peach.

The Fabulous Horror of Filmmaking

After an extensive career in corporate America, Taylor Ri’chard, decided that he wanted to switch lanes completely and make films – and that is precisely what he has been doing for the past nine years. Now, he is releasing his second film, the psycho-horror film, Hallowed Be Thy Name.

Peach spoke to the talented director and writer about the movie, its themes, releasing a film during a pandemic, and how the movement towards racial equity influences filmmaking.

You have recently released your movie, Hallowed Be Thy Name, on all digital platforms you wrote and directed. It’s a horror

By Mikkel Hyldebrandt

movie that deals with classic horror tropes of teenage angst, sexuality, and the supernatural, but it also feels very fresh and new. How did you come up with the idea for it?

You know, I love writing what I know about. At the core, this film is about a young man who moves to a small town and meets a gay guy who has a crush on him. That gay guy kind of represents me. I remember being in my small town and having crushes on guys because there weren’t many openly gay choices in a small town. At that time, everyone was so closeted. So, in essence, I always try to find a way to build myself into my stories.

After I established the core, I was like, what if they all were

chased by a monster, and what if that monster represented one that I heard about growing up. From there, the concept of Cauchemar as it relates to my film was born.

What is the process of writing and directing a movie – is the process somehow interlinked?

Every filmmaker, specifically those that are writers, have their own process of how they create a story and then how they allow that story to play out on film.

For me, my process usually starts when I become extremely passionate about a topic or idea. Then I start doing a ton of research about it until I feel like I have some type of cre-

ative authority. Then I build my world and character arcs. When I step over to the directing side, I switch hats allowing the script to only serve as a road map to what we are trying to achieve.

I allow the actors to show me what I didn’t’ see when writing it, and if I love it…we use that.

The story must remain fluid to pull out the best version of it on film.

Tell us about the people you worked with in creating Hallowed Be Thy Name.

When I started working on Hallowed Be Thy Name, I was a graduate student at SCAD Atlanta. I was able to tap into some of the hottest up and coming talent in Atlanta. They

were amazing, professional, and extremely supportive of my leadership. I hope as we continue to grow in my career, I can continue to build amazing films alongside them all.

gay characters from a feature film standpoint, and I wanted to show something different in regard to the “B story” and the type of sexual relationships that can exist in a horror film.

How has it been releasing a movie amid a global pandemic?

As we have just concluded Pride Month, what is your message of Pride during this challenging time in America?

It was very difficult. As we were moving towards the Q/C (quality control, ed.) process with the film, it was the most challenging because everyone was shut down, so any corrections that needed to happen on the film took about a week and a half longer than it would have on a normal scenario.

However, challenging as it was, we knew how important it was to get content out for everyone in these difficult times where we are quarantining and social distancing.

My message of Pride to all of us in the LGBTQIA+ is to continue being visible. Continue to take up space and be a source of inspiration for the younger generation of those that continue to feel disconnected from society.

Representation is important, and so is visibility.

Do you have any upcoming projects you can tell us about?

I am working on my next four projects right now, although I You are also releasing this movie as we are expe- acquired the rights to a book that I have been afriencing nationwide demonstrations after George ter for 11 years, and we are entering into pre-deFloyd’s and so many other Black Americans kill- velopment. ings. How has that been?

I can’t say that it really has affected the film release. Personally, as a Black man, it has been very interesting on how I’ve had to navigate my feelings about it on a social media standpoint.

On one hand, I’m celebrating the release of my film, and on the other hand, I am terribly affect-

Please let us know how we can stream Hallowed Be Thy Name.

Hallowed Be Thy Name can be found streaming on all the VOD platforms and digitally at VUDU, Google Play, Amazon Prime, YouTube Movies,

ed by what’s happening and want to post about it every time I’m on social media. So in that instance, it has been an interesting situation to deal with.

As a director, how would you relate significant issues like the pandemic and, more importantly, the movement towards ending racial injustice to a movie?

I think that as a director, it is my responsibility to capture this moment. I think that as a creator, it is my job to be the record and history teacher for those generations that will come after us. We, the artist, are to create and memorialize these moments so that we can never forget and educate everyone about the world we are dealing with right now.

It is also refreshing to see an openly gay character in the film. Is it important for you to explore gay storylines in your movies?

Xbox, Vimeo ON Demand, and Fandango Now. You can also buy the DVD or Blu-Ray from TarI think representation is important. As an get, BestBuy, or Amazon. openly gay person, it is important that I am always bringing new gay characters to different genres. Horror hasn’t been historically kind to

His Black Queerness Fr o n t and Center

By Chris Azzopardi Photo: Clifford Prince King, Hulu

O

nce Keiynan Lonsdale made no apologies for who he is, the music followed suit. The star of the CW’s The Flash and 2018’s gay teen comedy Love, Simon celebrates his Black queer identity on his 14-track anthemic solo debut Rainbow Boy. Dancepop song “Gay Street Fighter” is an audacious strut of a rally cry, proclaiming that even God is gay. And with a shout out to “my non-binary bitches,” “White Noise” and its buoyant groove lifts the stories of Black people that have fallen through the cracks.

Lonsdale’s album comes at the same time as Love, Victor, the Love, Simon spin-off on Hulu. In the series, the 28-year-old Aussie star reprises his role as quiet high-schooler Bram and becomes instrumental in Victor’s journey to authenticity.

When I recently connected with Lonsdale during a Zoom call, he was riding out the last two days of his mandatory 14-day quarantine in a hotel in Australia.

At one point, the phone rang. And then it rang again.

“Don’t mind me,” Lonsdale said, laughing. “I’m in the Australian quarantine right now, and so, actually, they call and check on you each day.”

In quarantine, Lonsdale has been able to “take stock of the album release, the state of the world…” He laughs again. “And the state of myself.”

Were you feeling as defiant as the music on this album when you recorded it, or was it a personal manifestation?

Yeah, I was 100 percent feeling just as defiant. The songs were written, for the most part, pretty easily.

There was so much that was ready to be expressed. And I think the momentum kept building, because I hadn’t felt that empowered to be able to write and make music that was so unapologetic. It felt really, really ripe.

When did you feel you could be unabashedly yourself in your music?

There was definitely one moment; it was three years exactly before I released it, where I had this realization that the best way for me to create would be to hold absolutely nothing back. I realized I was in control of the songs that I would write, and it would be a matter of what the writing led with, or staying in this sort of fear mindset that I had my whole life. And for good reason.

But it felt kind of like a spell was broken, and I was like, “I can say this shit, I can sing this shit.” (Laughs) In fact, it’s what sparked me to realize that I could have my own unique voice. Before that I would say that I spent a lot of time trying to be like others, but always wanting to have the gall to be able to be my own (person). But I didn’t know what that meant. So it was nice to have that spell broken.

So then being able to mentor a younger gay person on Love, Victor and remind him that there’s no one way to be LGBTQ, what did that feel like for you?

It was great to be able to play a role that could share that knowledge, because it’s something that I think each of us have needed to hear at one time: that you are still the one that gets to define who you are. There is no one way, and as much as we like to paint people with the same brush, it’s just not how it works. So I think it sends an important message. I’m glad that’s the route they went with with the (lead) character.

Going back to the fear you said you felt when you were younger, before you came out: How much of that had to do with you being a Black queer person?

Yeah, it had a lot to do with that. I didn’t hear and

I still don’t hear … (there’s) a lack of music that proclaims same-sex love. What’s ultimately needed is that it’s normalized; that hearing a guy sing about a guy or singing about a girl, they can become one in the same and not something that is conflicting or jarring or uncomfortable, or something that people have to avoid.

Photographer Mark Clennon, who has been sharing images of the Black Lives Matter protests and demonstrations across New York City, described sharing Black stories as “whimsical defiance” in a recent interview with Interview magazine. For you, what does it feel like to be sharing your perspective and story as a Black queer person during our current racial justice movement?

It’s both empowering and exhausting. I think a lot of Black people would likely feel this way too, because it’s a story we’ve lived with our entire lives. For a lot of us, we’ve expressed it for a while. You know, I wrote a whole album about my experience, and I wrote the album, like, two years ago. So, it’s coming out now and it’s amazing on one hand that people are listening in a different way than they were before. That provides me with a lot of hope on some days. On other days you just want to live your life. You want to be able to live your life without having to explain it all the time. And so I think that’s where it’s important to have the balance of doing the fight and also knowing, How do you heal at the same time? Take care of yourself? So, yeah. It’s hard to describe.

I’m assuming the song “White Noise” was written a couple of years ago too. During the song, you sing, “All the white noise that we just don’t need, you better move over.” What kind of significance does the song take on now in the midst of this uprising?

It has reminded me of the necessity of it. I was of the mind where I felt like maybe this song was too on the nose, but then, clearly not. (Laughs) There are a lot of people who don’t understand the importance of this, and I wanted to approach that song with a level of joy and invitation, to be able to point out an issue, pretty clear as day, yet to say that there’s a way forward. I suppose everyone has a different way of how they share their message, and with that song I wanted to kind of teach – and with the album, in general – through song and dance.

You taking pride in your Black heritage on “Ancient One” is a good example of that.

One-hundred percent. Because I think the goal of life is to celebrate that we are here, and that we get to share this experience. It’s important to have reminders that there is a lot to this existence, and that it can be something that is full of rhythm and full of mystery and full of celebration.

Love, Victor has been getting attention for its diversity, something many people thought Love, Simon lacked.

What are your feelings on how the show and the movie handled representation?

I haven’t seen the show in its entirety yet, so I look forward to that. But that was definitely one thing I thought was exciting about this show. When anything is getting a spin-off, you get a little bit worried and you’re hoping that it’s done the right way. But I appreciated that it was taking a turn from the movie and moving forward, taking further steps.

In one way, I’m really proud of Love, Simon and how things were represented, but I’m not unaware of the fact that that was one step and that there are still many |

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I see how you affect a lot of LGBTQ youth, and to that end, I wondered what you think being out and playing Kid Flash has meant to both LGBTQ and people-ofcolor communities?

It’s meant a lot of things. Because at first it was met with a lot of celebration, but I was also met with thousands of racist comments online the day that it was announced. Same thing when I came out. To be met with such celebration but then also the opposite, it’s a funny juxtaposition. But I am proud. I’m happy that Kid Flash is a superhero and the message I know that a lot of kids have been getting is: They’ve got to watch me as a Black man play a superhero, and then they compare it with the fact that I’m an out queer Black man who plays a superhero. We weren’t taught you could do that back in the day. And so if that empowers kids to know they can be limitless, then that’s the best thing ever.

-As editor of Q Syndicate, the LGBTQ wire service, Chris Azzopardi has interviewed a multitude of superstars, including Cher, Meryl Streep, Mariah Carey and Beyoncé. His work has also appeared in The New York Times, Vanity Fair, GQ and Billboard. Reach him via Twitter @chrisazzopardi.

that need to be taken. As people also said, this is one specific telling of what it is for one kind of person to grow up gay in a fairly accepting environment, in a sort of privileged position.

And those are conversations to be had. I’m glad that the movie was both celebrated yet also a topic of discussion of, “How do we keep going?”

When you accepted your MTV Movie award for “Best Kiss” for Love, Simon in 2018, what was it like to get on stage as an out queer person and in a dress?

It was super weird because I had come out a few weeks after we’d filmed (Love, Simon), so I was out for only 12 months by the time the movie was out. Then I was doing all these interviews and speeches; it was really strange because I only just came out. I was kind of very much in my own experience trying to figure a lot of stuff out.

But you seemed to have known what you were doing when you got on that stage in that dress.

(Laughs) Yeah, well … I was just trying my best to listen to the spiritual aspect of it and that’s what allowed me the confidence to wear what I wanted.

How did you feel up there?

I felt amazing. I was really nervous. I didn’t know what I was going to say until I started walking up. It’s a surreal kind of experience.

But I was over the moon, to be honest. It felt like a dream. And I felt really supported in that moment. And yeah, it was quite magical. I felt magical.

Did you see the crowd reactions? They were so into your speech.

I definitely heard them. It was really exhilarating.

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Grif characterizes himself as a bit shy, but after the initial shyness is gone, he engages with everyone.

He loves a good one-on-one conversation, and his friends appreciate him for being a good listener. Art is one of his favorite hobbies besides the gym and being outdoors. He loves seeing people express themselves through art, and his own artistic talent also landed him the job as the graphic designer of the latest edition of GOLIATH Magazine, which is out now. You can check out his art - along with some impressive modeling - on his Instagram!

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Creating His Own Safe Space

By Mikkel Hyldebrandt=

After being furloughed from the salon he worked at in March and asked to come back to work in early May, Michael Joseph decided not to go back. Instead, he resolved to create his own space where his health and safety were priorities for himself and his clients. Peach spoke to Michael about his decision and how the experience has been.

How was your line of work impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic and ensuing lockdown?

I was furloughed from the salon I worked for on March 22 – the same day I was actively moving into a new apartment. It took nearly ten weeks to receive any unemployment compensation or Federal Stimulus. The salon I worked for reopened on May 9 and was, in my opinion, ill-prepared for various reasons. The new regulations and suggestions from the state board that regulates salons and barber shops, in my opinion, could not be adequately implemented while still allowing for stylists like myself to properly service guests, maintain sanitation and safety standards, and earn anywhere near what we were before the shutdown. Specifically, we are now only allowed to see one client at a time – no more are we able to fit in a haircut while a color treatment is processing. Salons are also being forced to reduce the number of stylists on the floor and splitting the weeks or days into shifts and reducing hours. On top of that, because of the additional sanitation requirements, we have to add on sanitation time onto the end of each client – that time adds up, and when time is money, it cuts into our income.

When Governor Kemp started to lift restrictions for some businesses, you decided to open your own one-person business. Why did you make that decision?

Kemp reopened the service industry far too soon. This was a financial decision for the state, and I feel he used us as test subjects. I decided to open a private studio for many reasons, but it was mainly for the comfort and safety of my clients and myself as it is related to this. It was also a financial decision. I can now see my clients one-on-one, which significantly reduces risk, and I can set my own schedule and create more flexibility for my clients. After receiving partial payment from the state and the Federal 28 | follow us @ peachatlmag

Stimulus, I thought about what to do with the money and decided to invest in myself and create a better, safer, clean, and modern space for my clients.

What was the process of making the decision to opening up your own place?

I had been planning this for a while. Opening my studio was extremely stressful and was delayed several times. I called all my creditors, health and car insurance, and asked for a “COVID Break” in payments, and they were all very helpful. I had fellow stylist and barber friends who have been extremely helpful and encouraging, so I took the leap. I had difficulty getting all the things I needed to open. All the beauty supply stores were closed (and later vandalized) or out-of-stock on virtually everything – even online. It took weeks to get even one bottle of Barbicide disinfectant.

My Mother, who is a licensed esthetician in Michigan, sent me several things that I just couldn’t find here or online. The cabinetry was delayed because IKEA was closed and way behind on deliveries. But the craziest thing was the focal point of my space – the wallpaper – a story within itself. Out-of-stock everywhere. But I eventually found it! I had originally planned to be open June 2, but I didn’t officially open until June 16.

Now that you have been in your space, you have received clients, and you have followed the CDC guidelines – how has it been working in the new normal?

It’s been an anxious time. I have clients that were ready to come back and others who are still uneasy. I have busy days and very slow days. Working with a mask on isn’t comfortable, and I miss seeing everyone’s entire faces. I’ve become hyper-aware of cleanliness and am now Barbicide Certified in sanitation.

Besides following strict guidelines in your shop, do you take other precautions in your personal life to limit the risk of exposure to COVID-19?

I will just say that this whole thing is a learning curve for all of us. It’s about personal risk assessment and caring for ourselves and others when it comes down to it. It is also for me, a matter of keeping myself healthy, not just for my health, but also for my clients. I cannot afford to www.peachatl.com

get myself or any of them sick. I was recently tested for both antibodies and the virus, and both were negative. I am considering getting tested monthly. I wear a mask in public spaces and maintain my distance as much as I can.

I have more or less maintained a close circle of friends with whom I have gotten together with on occasion. For me, we all have to find a balance and take responsibility for ourselves while also considering the health and wellbeing of our friends and for me, my clients, and their families, and friends.

The good that’s come out of this is that it’s provided me an opportunity to do something good for myself and has shown me who my friends and supporters really are, and I am grateful to all of them.

What have been some of the lessons learned – good or bad – during this crisis?

Sadly, I have learned that people can be very quick to judge others based on their perceptions and what they feel someone else should or shouldn’t be doing. There has been a lot of selfish and irresponsible behavior, but there’s also been a lot of the “Keyboard Karen” phenomenon, which doesn’t help anything. It has put a strain on a lot of relationships. In a way, this pandemic has become another thing to divide some of us while bringing others closer together.

Book your appointment with Michael Joseph Hair Studio, located inside Salon Studios Midtown, at MJHS.salonstudios.com, email MichaelJosephHairStudio@gmail.com, and follow him on Instagram @MJHSATL.

What is some good advice you can give other businesses during this crisis?

Do the right thing. Listen to scientists and health professionals and your customers, then do what you feel is best for you and your business.

JULY 8 - 15

Due to the ongoing pandemic, please keep yourself updated on the status of an event!

The Return of Birdcage Bingo Atlanta’s best charity drag bingo is back! Ruby Redd hosts the star-studded kick-off featuring the ever-popular Golden Girls Round followed by the 80’s Music Round. To ensure the safety of everyone, touchless tipping, hand-sanitizing stations, and masks are available.

Wednesday, July 15, 9 – 11:30 pm Midtown Moon The Other Show Virtually The Other Show with your esteemed and fierce hosts Edie Cheezburger, Jaye Lish, Molly Rimswell, and Orchid, is still performing at a safe distance online. Log on to experience an amazing and fun show with plenty of options to tipping the queens virtually.

Friday, July 17, 9 pm facebook.com/TheOtherShow twitch.tv/theothershow

Shelter & Place StoryMuse and The Spot at CHRIS 180 present “Shelter & Place” - a drive-in theatre experience that features unique stories involving young adults currently in the process of getting out of homelessness. Tickets are free with registration at Eventbrite.

Friday, July 17, 8:30 – 11:30 pm CHRIS180

DJ Roland Belmares Heretic opens its doors again with DJ Roland Belmares at the turntables. Temperature checks, social distancing, and face coverings will be strictly enforced, and tickets will be sold at a limited number to ensure limited capacity.

Saturday, July 18, 10 pm – 3 am The Heretic

MIDTOWN 1

Monroe Dr. NE

14

Amsterdam Ave.

12th St. NE

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14th St. NE

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Juniper St . NE

Peachtree St. NE

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Charle s Alle n Dr . N E

12 W. Peachtree St. NW

15

16

P o n ce D e Leo n Pl . N E

Spring St. NW

17

4th St. NE

8

13

Ponce De Leon Ave. NE

4

Ponce De Leon Ave. NE

BARS 1 2 3 4

Amsterdam Blake's Bulldogs Friends

6 My Sister’s Room 7 Ten Atlanta

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

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

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

clubs 13 Atlanta Eagle

306 Ponce De Leon Ave NE

fitness

retail 8 BarkingLeather

9 10 11 12

306 Ponce De Leon Ave NE

14 Urban Body Fitness 500 Amsterdam Ave NE

spa/bath 15 Flex Spa

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76 4th St. NW

16 17 18 19

G’s Midtown Henry’s Joe's on Juniper 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

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When the world throws you Let be your savedandgay.com

Cheshire

ansley 21

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NE

BARS 2043 Cheshire Bridge Rd 1086 Alco St NE 1931 Piedmont Cir NE

1842 Cheshire Bridge Rd 1824 Cheshire Bridge Rd

32 33 34 35 36

Midtown Moon Felix's The Hideaway Mixx Oscar's

1510 Piedmont Ave Suite A 2205 Cheshire Bridge Rd 2069 Cheshire Bridge Rd 1739 Cheshire Bridge Rd

Fitness 2201 Faulkner Rd NE

Spa / bath 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 38 Eclectic Bistro

clubs

30 Gravitee Fitness

e. nt mo ed Pi

Piedmont Park

Retail

28 Heretic 29 Tokyo Valentino

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36

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Dining

26 Barking Leather 27 Southern Nights

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38

BARS

24 Las Margaritas 25 Roxx

Av

ge Rd Brid hire Ches

28 20

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26 35

24

20 BJ Roosters 21 Sequel 22 Tripps

42 The Den

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33

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34

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Manchester St. NE

Piedmont Rd. NE

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42 L

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Lambert Dr.

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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 The T Woof's

1287 Glenwood Ave SE 466 Edgewood Ave SE 1400 Northside Dr NW 3011 Buford Hwy NE 465 Boulevard SE 494 Plasters Ave NE

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

BARS & CLUBS MIDTOWN AMSTERDAM amsterdamatlanta.com 502 Amsterdam Ave. NE ATLANTA EAGLE 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 MY SISTER’S ROOM mysistersroom.com 66 12th St NE TEN ATLANTA tenatlanta.com 990 Piedmont Ave NE THE T modeltatlanta.com 465 Boulevard SE CHESHIRE HERETIC hereticatlanta.com 2069 Cheshire Bridge Road BJ ROOSTERS bjroosters.com 2043 Cheshire Bridge Road NE SEQUEL 1086 Alco St NE TRIPPS 1931 Piedmont Circle N 34 | follow us @ peachatlmag

ANSLEY MIDTOWN MOON 1492 Piedmont Ave NE FELIX’S 1510 Piedmont Ave NE THE HIDEAWAY 1544 Piedmont Ave NE MIXX mixxatlanta.com 1492 Piedmont Ave NE OSCAR’S oscarsatlanta.com 1510 Piedmont Ave NE WOOFS woofsatlanta.com 494 Plasters Ave NE EAST ATLANTA, GRANT PARK & EDGEWOOD MARY’S marysatlanta.com 1287 Glenwood Ave SE SISTER LOUISA’S CHURCH sisterlouisaschurch. com 466 Edgewood Ave SE SWINGING RICHARDS swingingrichards. com 1400 Northside Dr NW

DINING MIDTOWN 10TH & PIEDMONT 10thandpiedmont. com 991 Piedmont Ave NE EINSTEIN’S einsteinsatlanta. com 1077 Juniper St NE FROGS CANTINA frogsmidtown.com 931 Monroe Dr G’S gsmidtown.com 219 10th St NE

RETAIL MIDTOWN BARKING LEATHER AFTER DARK barkingleather.com 306 Ponce De Leon Ave NE CHESHIRE SOUTHERN NIGHTS VIDEO 2205 Cheshire Bridge Rd NE ANSLEY BOY NEXT DOOR MENSWEAR boynextdoormenswear.com 1447 Piedmont Ave NE

HENRY’S henrysatl.com 132 10th St NE

GCB & PLEASURES brushstrokesatlanta. com 1510 Piedmont Ave. NE

JOE’S ON JUNIPER joesonjuniper.com 1049 Juniper St NE

BARKING LEATHER barkingleather.com 1510 Piedmont Ave Suite A

LA HACIENDA lahaciendamidtown. com 900 Monroe Dr NE CHESHIRE LAS MARGARITAS lasmargaritasmidtown.com 1842 Cheshire Bridge Rd NE ROXX 1824 Cheshire Bridge Rd NE DEKALB LIPS ATLANTA atldragshow.com 3011 Buford Hwy NE

FITNESS MIDTOWN URBAN BODY FITNESS urbanbodyfitness.com 500 Amsterdam Ave N

CHESHIRE

GRAVITEE FITNESS graviteeatl.com 2201 Faulkner Rd NE

SPAS/BATHS ADULT FLEX SPA flexspas.com 76 4th St NW CHESHIRE THE DEN thedenatlanta.com 2135 Liddell Drive NE

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Massage Bodyworks

by David $80 per hour 1st time $60 w/Peach ATL ad

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10 THiNGS YOU SHOULD GET COMFORTABLE SAYiNG As we unite in the fight against racial injustice and police brutality, we have to recognize that the way we communicate about these issues has to change as well. Often microaggressions and covert racism is unintentional regardless of your attention, so get ready to accept, understand, and learn from your error.

1. I’ve said things without realizing that they’re racist

6. How can I show up for you moving forward?

2. Thanks for correc�ng me, I didn’t realize that

7. It sounds like you’re saying _ _ _ Is that accurate?

3. I hadn’t thought of it that. I understand now

8. I understand that I will never understand. However, I stand

4. I should do some more research before I argue this point

9. In your opinion, what is the best-case scenario?

5. I was wrong about that, and I have changed my mind

10. It seems as though you feel this way _ _ _. Is that correct?

Sources: @i_weigh, @a�nwhitpeople

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37

Do you want to take a salsa class with me?

Yes, that sounds delicious E-mail your Peach Pits to mikkel@PeachATL.com

Sorry, I’m late. There was so much traffic, Also, I left at the time we were supposed to meet.

Delicious?

By cutting off the sleeves of all your t-shirts?

Yeah, somaking do we bring our Yes, I’m tank tops owncrop chips? and tops.

This is a salsa DANCING class

It’s cute you posting about your body progress thanks to your personal trainer.

Maybe your next trainer will train your legs too?

Oh, in that case, no, I‘m not interested

So in retrospect, in 2015, not a single person got the answer right to “where do you see yourself in five years from now?”

One more time for those posting holiday and gym selfies during a pandemic and the fight against racial injustice: READ THE F**KING ROOM!

Gays are the most powerful in the week following a haircut

13: “I’m the worst number in the world” 666: “That’s cute” 2020: “hold my beer”

Today I learned that the average person has 8 different sexual partners in their lifetime. Today, I also learned that I’m a whore.

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SAGITTARIUS (NOV. 22 - DEC. 21) You felt the world stand still for the past few months, but now new adventures open up for you as a focus on exploration. This will appease your restless need to travel and even motivate you to study. This may lead to you gaining a certification, lecturing, teaching, or getting published.

CAPRICORN (DEC. 22 - JAN. 19) Things are starting to look better if you’re an entrepreneur or businessperson with ambition.

Being practical and down to earth helps to make a plan before you get started. Your social life perks up to people with power and influence.

CANCER (JUN. 21 - JUL. 22)

AQUARIUS (JAN. 20 - FEB. 18)

All economic sensibility that you have demonstrated while being in lockdown is starting to pay off in big ways. Finances look set to improve with Jupiter now in your money sector.

With all the effort you have put in, the more you’ll get out. Or maybe the more you put out, the more your finances improve? Go talk to a Gemini.

You’re entering a phase where social distance relationships are starting to build and gain momentum. Your social life may get busier and busier, which you might quite enjoy, as long as you adhere to healthy guidelines. Career matters may also get a boost but watch out for pit falls and all may be ok!

LEO (JUL. 23 - AUG. 22)

PISCES (FEB. 19 - MAR. 20)

In times of chaos, you’ll be a beacon of warmth and natural strength this week. Yet you may get all stirred up in drama with family and friends over politics. Give yourself a break and avoid the drama altogether, so you’re not led down a bad path. The New Moon in your sign is perfect for making a fresh start and gaining new perspective.

A feeling of vitality and radiance could give you a boost that not only enhances energy levels but also gives you that feel-good factor.

Romantic opportunities coincide with intense exchanges, where control battles and a desire for power could unleash sexual desire.

VIRGO (AUG. 23 - SEP. 22)

ARIES (MAR. 21 - APR. 19)

You’re in a natural phase where you want to engage with people – and now is not the time to engage! You want to explore your fantasies and give in to your intuitive sexual impulses as your deeper desires are very much at forefront.

Instead of living out your fantasies, take time to reflect and meditate, so that you don’t embark on a path that could be bad for your health.

This is a time where the rebel might possibly be brought out in you. If financial matters have been rather slow to improve, progress can now be made. A strong determination to overcome challenges in this area will encourage you to put 100 percent into solving problems for good.

LIBRA (SEP. 23 - OCT. 22)

TAURUS (APR. 20 - MAY 20)

The “fun meter” is set on high, with a delightful focus on romance and socializing. You’ll be in your element organizing social gatherings and bringing folks together all the while keeping people safe and healthy. So set that zoom meeting, wear that mask, and have that dinner party outside.

Although our differences seem to be on blatant display during these difficult times, it’s best not to rock the boat if you want to stay friends with someone. This week can be excellent for detailed work, planning, and organization. You can make great strides if you put your mind to it. Be careful of the weekend as things can heat up and not in a good way.

SCORPIO (OCT. 23 - NOV. 21)

GEMINI (MAY 21 - JUN. 20)

After being a bit of a recluse during quarantine, the spotlight beckons this week to make you the star of the show. Now more than ever it’s time to prioritize your goals and focus on those that matter most. Along with this you’ll be motivated to overcome challenges and explore new pathways to greater happiness.

You seem to have a knack for showcasing all of your best sides and advertise your abilities, which brings all of the boys to your yard.

However, you should keep it strictly online and keep it in your pants for now – both in the name of safety and so that people won’t think you are selling your own “goods and services.”

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. live with several roommates, and it seems fter being (too) focused on getting a boyfriend Ireminiscent like they are starting to return to something A(and not succeeding), the COVID crisis set in, of a normal lifestyle. A couple went and I took the time to refocus and commit to ‘date out to party on July Fourth weekend, and one is even hooking up again. They have all said that they are over it, and if they get it, they get it, and it probably isn’t as bad as everyone thinks.

They also think that I am hysterical, enforcing social distancing, sanitizing, and washing my hands all the time. I am honestly getting frustrated and concerned for my wellbeing, so what do I do? A little help here!

Sincerely COVID Concern or COVID Karen?

Dear Covid Conern or Covid Karen?

Wow, your roommates sound just lovely. And by lovely, I mean complete assholes. Their reaction is, however, weirdly understandable, because the response to this whole crisis has been so horrible and negligent, and there are no real guidelines that tell everybody what to do. Add to that an administration that treats this pandemic is being over, and somehow, it’s understandable that people get frustrated and could care less. What you should do is continue what you are doing. Take care of yourself, and if you have the option, perhaps even move out if you’re feeling unsafe or when the next lockdown happens. What you can say to your roommates is this: This thing that they hate and want to be over is only going to get worse for themselves.

They may not care about the health of others (you!), but if they continue acting irresponsibly like they are now, it is only going to get worse for themselves, because this crisis will never end if they just continue to carry on as if nothing is wrong.

myself.’ And it has been great! I am enjoying taking some time just to focus on me, but it also seems that now that I am ‘unavailable,’ several prospects that definitely seem like boyfriend material have suddenly appeared. I know this isn’t the right time to start something new, but still, these guys are messing with my resolve to focus on me. On the one hand, I want to keep learning about myself and enjoy this liberating feeling of not always hunting for a man. On the other, it seems like love is practically standing on my doorstep, just waiting to be invited in. What do I do? A little help, please!

Sincerely Love Confucius

Dear Love Confucius First of all, good going on you for taking some time to focus on what is right for you – and now is the perfect time to do it. Too often, we tend to chase a goal, and, in the process, we forget to take care of ourselves. So kudos on refocusing that energy onto yourself. Secondly: why can’t you do both? It seems that now you are more conscious of what makes YOU happy, you have also attracted guys that you could potentially fall in love with. Call it energy, the universe, the gods, or whatever – what you are doing is obviously giving you the confidence the rely more on yourself. And you know what? That’s attractive! Plus, now that circumstances dictate that you can’t really meet in person (well, you can if you’re socially distancing and wearing masks!), it is an excellent opportunity for you to get to know these guys a little better. If you honestly feel that these guys are worth pursuing and not remnant of your previous history of boyfriend-focused dating, then go for it! If you have the slightest doubt that you could be luring yourself into your old ways of a bae-centric dating life, then back off! You are on the path of getting to know yourself even better, so take a moment and listen to what your new and improved being is telling you to do.

NEED ANSWERS? SEND YOUR BURNING QUESTIONS TO MIKKEL@PEACHATL.COM

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