David Atlanta Magazine - Issue 50

5.22.13 #50

FORT TROFF: SUPPLYING AN ARMY OF KINK

Go ‘Behind the Candelabra’ with

Steven Soderbergh

NATALIE MAINES

Talks Lesbian Hair, Rachel Maddow Crush

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m o r f e t o r N o t i A the Ed 5.22.13 Issue #50

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“Too Gay For Hollywood”?

A

mong the stories in this week’s issue of David Atlanta is an in-depth interview with Oscar-winning director Steven Soderbergh, whose final (for now) film, Behind the Candelabra, premieres on HBO Sunday, May 26.

The director, who’s had a number of big films—including last year’s gay fave Magic Mike—has openly discussed with several outlets, including ours, the difficulty he faced getting the film made because of the subject matter: namely, a biopic on Liberace was seen as “too gay for Hollywood.”

Now, let’s be honest: even by gay standards, a Liberace biopic’s going to be very flamboyant. But less than a year after Magic Mike was targeted specifically to gay men, and became a raging success? (Okay, so maybe it was targeted to women too.) Liberace was one of the biggest entertainers in the world when he was alive. Even with some fairly graphic male-on-male sex scenes, I’m sure a sizable number of Liberace fans would have paid to see the film.

Who knows. Even with Soderbergh on board, as well as Oscar-winning stars Michael Douglas and Matt Damon, though, a studio couldn’t at least see this as potential Oscar bait for an end-of-year awards run?

Apparently not. It’s a shame.

But hey—at least it’s getting made, and with some big names to boot.

Hollywood’s loss is HBO’s (and our) gain.

Elijah Sarkesian The content of this Publication 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 Magazine are not necessarily those of the 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 this Publication meets your specific requirements. The Publication 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 the Publication, including but not limited to articles, advertisement, design, layout, graphics, and logos. No part or portion of this Publication may be reproduced in any way without the prior written consent of the Publisher. Unauthorized use of this Publication may give rise to claims for damages and or criminal offenses. Your use of the information or materials in the Publication is strictly at your own risk.

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TOC

5.22.13 Issue #50

Cover > Fort Troff

50

Feature > Raven 14 Natalie Maines 20 Steven Soderbergh 32

Seen@ > 10th & Piedmont 12 Piedmont Park 30 Joe’s on Juniper 66 Mixx 74

The Rest > Untucked with Brent Star 16 the Scene 42 Bartab 44 Datebook 45 Fairyscopes 72 Classifieds 73 Bitch, Please!

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50 14

20 32

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@DavidAtlantaGA // 13

Raven T hat’s So

BY ELIJAH SARK ESIAN

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O

ver several seasons of RuPaul’s Drag Race, only a handful of contestants can say that they came close to winning, only to settle for the runner-up position.

One contestant, Raven, has those people beat: after placing as Runner-Up in Season 2, she returned for the recent All-Stars season of Drag Race, only to find herself in the exact same placement at the end of the season.

Still, Raven’s placements on both seasons of the show, along with her role on spinoff Drag U, have made her one of the biggest names in the franchise’s history. Before her Atlanta debut at Burkhart’s on May 23 and 24, I caught up with Raven to talk about her Drag Race experiences, her start in drag, and more.

Being on RuPaul’s Drag Race certainly can have an impact on a performer’s career. With your appearances in Season 2, All-Stars and Drag U, how much has that continual exposure affected your career?

Oh my gosh! Before appearing on Season 2, I was thinking to myself, “What the hell are you doing with your drag?

Where are you taking it and do you even want to continue?” I had been doing drag and performing for eight years up until I got the call I was a cast member for Season 2.

I was doing the club and bar gigs, which I love, but just doing the local hot spots and sometimes not so hot spots!

One of my goals was to travel with my drag and go perform and see different places. I saw a definite jolt in my drag “career” after having the opportunity to be on RuPaul’s Drag Race, Drag U and then All Stars! It is a true blessing!

You were the runner-up in both Season 2 and All-Stars. If you had the chance to compete in another season of RuPaul’s Drag Race, would you do it again? What was your reaction to your placement in All-Stars?

I was a go-go boy and also a back up dancer for friends who did drag. I remember sitting and watching a show one night and thinking I wanted to be the one in the makeup, heels and wig. I wanted to do drag the way I wanted to. I wanted to be center stage. I wanted to do it—only once!

My friend, who I was a backup dancer for, held an amateur contest and I said, “I’m doing this!” I did not care if I won or lost. I wanted to say that I actually went on stage and performed the way I wanted to. It turns out I won. I often think if what would have happened had I not won?!?

Besides appearing at Burkhart’s during your Atlanta stay, what do you plan on doing while you’re in Atlanta?

Probably catching a few Z’s, but hopefully I get to see some of the sights. I have never been to Atlanta, and I’m so excited!

What are your plans for the next few months?

I have a full calendar! I am literally gone every weekend and loving it. But I still want to make sure I get in some beach time, and a few summer visits to Disneyland are always fun!

Raven takes the stage at Burkhart’s May 23–24. On May 23, she’ll appear in Dancefloor Divas at 11:30 p.m. with fellow Drag Race alums Phoenix and Mariah Paris Balenciaga. On May 24, she’ll appear with Angelica D’Paige in The Fab Five, beginning at 11 p.m. For more information, visit burkharts.com.

I would most definitely do it all again! I loved the entire experience. From beginning to end. I was asked the same question after Season 2 and I did get to do it all again with All Stars. A crowned queen, I am not destined to be!

What do you love about RuPaul’s Drag Race?

I love that it has taken an art form that so many people have “poo-pooed”, misunderstood and bashed at times and put it into their homes. It has opened the eyes of so many people and really helped wake them up! It has sparked a whole new generation of drag babies. Everyone wants to do it now…it is fun!

How did you get your start in drag? @DavidAtlantaGA // 15

Monica Van Pelt

S

o, what had happened was…I was at LeBuzz for one of the recently departed diva Ashley Kruiz’s memorial shows. Seasoned performer and title holder Monica Van Pelt was there giving the kids one ole’ speech! She mentioned how she’s who she is because of Ashley and how to be a professional entertainer. Speaking of which, she also mentioned she’s leaving Atlanta!

So when it was time for me to get “untucked” with Monica (and get the scoop) the first thing she said to me was:

Mr. Star, can I start off by talking about the “elephant in the room”? Yes, I know I made that announcement about leaving, but there has been a change of plans do to unforeseen circumstances. However, anyone interested in the juicy story can check my Facebook page where I wrote what really happened!

How long have you been doing drag here in Atlanta? Tell us the tea, girl!

I hate unforeseen circumstances too…like going on a “date” and his ex shows up talking Since 1999. The first cast in Atlanta that I was on about heyyy! Ok, but look…what about all the back then was at Backstreet on Wednesday nights with shows that you had to let go because of you Jaun Cezar’s Spotlight show. Wow…come to think of leaving? Discuss. it, Nicole Paige Brooks helped get me on that cast too!

Hmm, I had not thought about that in awhile. Brent, I was Well before I gave them up, I was working at LeBuzz lucky because I got to work with the best of the best at Thursdays, at Burkharts on Saturdays, and traveling here Backstreet, and that is the real Drag U! and there. Now that I am staying, it’s as if I am starting over.

Well since you’ve learned so much over the That’s fucked up! years, any advice for the new up and coming drag performers?

Oh wait, except for Saturdays. I am still in the cast at Burkhart’s, thanks to Nicole Paige Brooks. She showed me once again what My first advice would be know your drag history! an amazing person she is—when she found out what happened Secondly, stay off YouTube and come up with your own to me, she went to Shavonna B. Brooks and told her, “If Monica ideas! Stop copying other people’s shit! We know it’s not wants her job back, I will go back to every-other-week!” I can’t an original idea when we have computers too! It’s stealdo anything but cry when I think of this, especially today in a ing, plain and simple. business where people are so jaded, backstabbing, and really only think of themselves. It was very selfless of her and I will Well…um...thank you so much, Monica Van Pelt, for never be able to put into words what Nicole and Shavonna’s always being ready to tell it like it is! Thanks guys for sisterly friendship has meant to me during all of this! reading, until next time, don’t forget to R-E-S-P-E-C-T! 16 // davidatlanta.com

18 // davidatlanta.com

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NATALIE MAINES G E T S

R E A L

BY CH R IS A Z ZO PA R D I 20 // davidatlanta.com

photos: Danny Clinch

To quote a Dixie Chicks song, fearless frontwoman Natalie Maines has “been a long time gone.”

Seven years after one of the most successful country music acts released Taking the Long Way, and its unapologetic single “Not Ready to Make Nice” in response to the singer’s political dig at then-President George W. Bush, Maines goes her own way for her first-ever solo album, Mother. Parting with longstanding bandmates Emily Robison and Martie Maguire for the album (don’t worry, she says there’s a “50/50” chance for a reunion LP), it’s also decidedly not country.

In our recent chat, Maines revealed why she went rock (country “seemed so fake”), how being disowned—and her new short hair—made her feel closer to the gay community and whether now, a decade after her Bush outburst, she’s ready to make nice.

You’re sporting that punkish ’do; before, with the Dixie Chicks, it was the long, blond locks.

I know. Well, with the Chicks, I definitely felt like I was playing dress up a bit—but I liked it!

Are you conscious of your look and how it represents the music?

With two kids, there’s not enough time in the day to spend on what I look like; this is a much easier look. And it fits my personality more. I had short hair growing up, and it always felt right for me.

Has the short hair scored you more lesbian cred?

(Laughs) I barely leave my house. So maybe. But the lesbians liked me already! Yeah, this is definitely a lesbianish haircut I’ve got going on. I don’t mind. I love Rachel Maddow. She would be my lesbian girl crush.

Why Rachel?

She’s hot! And she’s smart and beautiful … and I like her hair.

I could see it working out between you two.

Yeah, I think that would work. I don’t know if my husband or her girlfriend would think so. (Laughs) You’ve always had a really loyal gay fan base, even before you publicly chastised George W. Bush. How do you explain your connection with gay fans? @DavidAtlantaGA // 21

I don’t have an issue with country music fans. I don’t have an issue with country music artists. I was very honest about my influences and the kind of music I came from—and country was not it. I say that now and people think, “Ooh, she’s mad at country,” and I never listened to country. I would say that if ever asked, but I was never asked as much as I am now. But … I can’t remember what I was talking about. (Laughs) You were talking about not being fond of the country music industry.

Oh, you asked if I felt let down. I mean, it did suck to see all these radio stations cave so quickly to emails and phone calls they were getting and feed the controversy, which was so really nothing and ridiculous. That did feel like a stabbing in the back, just because I felt like we waved that country flag and we had country pride for all those years. But everyone jumped on board. We were fun We had some very costume-y, over-the-top looks that the to hate. gays do appreciate. (Laughs) But after the controversy, I feel like there was even more of a connection, and that’s That’s because you were ahead of your time. just because we both know how it feels to be hated just for who we are—not for doing anything, bothering anyExactly. Always have been. one, murdering anyone or being arrested. Just for being us. Apparently, that’s not good in some people’s eyes.

When hardly anyone in country music was But also, too, to just continue being and let other people speaking out about equal rights and gay marget used to it—learning to be OK with yourself and just riage, you were. putting it out there, and people can either like you or not, but it’s really on them.

Well, that’s why I was so shocked that people were so shocked that I was a Democrat and wasn’t for the war! I Were you noticing more support from the gay mean, I did not ever feel like I was hiding something. To community at shows after the incident? be in country music, I felt like we were accepted because of our differences, really, and we went beyond your typiYeah. And we would get lots of emails, and a lot of the cal country fan base, and I feel like it was because we community would come right up and say, “I love that you were different. It was a real surprise to me that people did this. I didn’t listen to your music before, but after this, thought I was something that I wasn’t. I felt disappointed I went and bought every record.” However it was that in myself! How could I let anyone think anything else?! they showed their support, I definitely felt it.

(Laughs) But we did always answer questions if we were asked them, and I always supported women’s rights and During the time country radio blacklisted the gay marriage and everything.

Dixie Chicks and country stars stopped supporting you, what was it like for you behind the Why do you think more country music artists scenes? haven’t taken that step in publicly supporting equal rights—even though some of them At the time, I was just in fight mode and feeling defiant might? and ready to take on everything and everybody. Actually, at the time, we were getting such overwhelming support Well, they weren’t speaking out about it before, either. and letters from people in the industry—actors and all But I’m sure some do. How I always viewed country sorts of people—and that was all really positive. I was music growing up—why I didn’t really relate to it or why always able to separate business from personal—and I wasn’t drawn to it—was because, to me, it seemed so my friends weren’t fellow country artists, so I really didn’t fake. Everyone was putting on these fake smiles, nobody care about that. What I cared about was being banned at had any anger and they were all just happy to be there. I a corporate level; it felt very un-American and very not just did not relate to that. Shoot. What was your question OK to me, so that was my issue. And that is my issue with again? I get so on a soapbox! (Laughs) country music.

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@DavidAtlantaGA // 23

About the lack of country artists advocating for equal rights.

I just think that’s the nature of country music. I don’t know.

I just don’t feel like they ever have. I have to think that Faith Hill has answered that question, honestly, and that she’s for gay marriage. I don’t know that she is, but I’ve spoken to her some and I know that she’s a pretty liberal person. I don’t keep up with her press so I don’t want to assume these people haven’t spoken out.

Will there ever be another Dixie Chicks album?

I don’t know. It’s possible. I’d say 50/50. (Laughs) I try to not predict the future or project; I just really try to live in the now, so I’m open to it. I have no ill feelings about the Dixie Chicks.

I think right now, it’s logistics. There are eight kids among the three of us and, for me, making an album takes a lot of focus and a lot of concentration and a lot of time, and I’m not willing to go to Texas to do that. I wouldn’t expect Martie and Emily to leave their families and come here to do that, either.

I just think it’s really hard right now.

With the Dixie Chicks, you covered several Patty Griffin songs, and Mother features Griffin’s song “Silver Bell.” What is it about Patty and her songwriting that resonates with you so much? The darkness? The realness?

It’s all of that. I’m bad putting into words things like that, but I love her songwriting. And I hate her because, not only has she written a million songs that are out there, she’s got all these songs that we’ve never even heard. It’s so hard to write a song for me! And I’m so jealous that she has, like, back stock.

Why was the seven years between Taking the Long Way and this new solo album a necessary break for you?

Basically because kids take a lot of time. (Laughs) I just decided to dive into motherhood and do that 100 percent—just try to enjoy this time and my life and my kids’ lives and be, you know, a stable force in their lives.

I definitely felt like I had worked really hard and been on the road for over 10 years, so I did want to slow down and just get real for a while. So there was a lot of self-realization and a lot of things that went on, but yeah, I needed a long while to just … be.

Why was the distinction between this album and your work with the Dixie Chicks important to you?

It’s just bugged me whenever I would see lead singers do a solo album that sounded exactly like their band. It always seemed to be a way to get all the money for yourself.

(Laughs) So I did want to be different. But I didn’t have to be conscious of that; this is just what I’m naturally drawn to.

When we went into the studio, we didn’t even know we were making a record. I was very upfront about that with Ben (Harper’s) band, just because they were basically coming (to the studio) for free every day; they enjoyed music and they wanted to experiment and see what happens—but I wasn’t telling my management or my label, so there was no money coming from anywhere.

It was really like a band starting from scratch, everybody putting in the same amount of time and hard work … and they got paid eventually. (Laughs) There just wasn’t a discussion; it was just very organic in what naturally comes to me musically or appeals to me.

Are you ready to make nice yet?

I don’t sit around stewing over it or thinking about it at all, but if making nice means making a country record and going back to that, then no, I’m not ready.

Has there been a peace agreement between you and Toby Keith?

Sure, I’ve got no issues. I don’t even think about any of these people. (Laughs) I wouldn’t have even thought of Toby Keith if he hadn’t put out a picture of me and Saddam Hussein cuddling.

He could’ve at least had you cuddling with Rachel Maddow. Gosh.

(Laughs) Exactly!

24 // davidatlanta.com

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Behind the

‘Candelabra’ Director talks Liberace biopic and why he’s proud to call it his last film… for now

BY CH R IS A Z ZO PA R D I

S

teven Soderbergh knows who’s significantly responsible for the major success of his male-stripper romp Magic Mike: gay men eager to ogle the barely-covered bits of Channing Tatum and his hunky posse. The Oscarwinning director’s upcoming feature will obviously court the same audience—and not just because Matt Damon lets it all hang out, too.

Behind the Candelabra is so gay that major Hollywood studios would have nothing to do with the Liberace film.

32 // davidatlanta.com

Premiering May 26 on HBO, the revealing biopic stars Michael Douglas as the shiny showman who died of AIDS complications at age 67 and Damon as his much younger beau, Scott Thorson.

In our interview, Soderbergh spoke in depth about their real-life relationship, the “flamboyancy scale” used to guide the actors’ gayness onset, diversity in film and why Damon wanted to flaunt the junk in his trunk. photo: HBO

Steven Soderbergh

somebody’s show or if he had a special. I had this vague sense of him being a very flamboyant entertainer.

In 2000, as I started to learn more about him and gather material, what was great was discovering that he was an amazing technical musician, an incredible keyboardist. I found it fascinating that somebody with that sort of skill set was very happy to hide it behind a real genuine desire to put on a very popular and entertaining show. He wouldn’t have been as interesting to me if it turned out that he was a so-so keyboardist.

How did Michael pull off the piano-playing parts?

Oh, lots of tricks.

Then you fooled me, because at one point he’s playing 16 beats to the bar for “Boogie Woogie” and you can clearly see Michael’s hands on the piano.

In my mind, that was a very important scene. Because if we don’t sell that, then we have a problem. There was a lot of effort expended on that particular scene. Michael had to spend a lot of time making sure that he was doing the right photo: Claudette Barius/HBO thing so that the effects would work properly. He couldn’t just sit there. He had video of the pieces and he had to make Steven, you’ve made the gayest movie of your career. sure his hands were very close to being perfectly placed so that we could make it work.

That was my intent.

Did you discuss with Michael how flamboyant he could go with Liberace?

Was it?

In a way. It was an opportunity to make use of all the hours that I’ve spent watching melodramas like Sunset Boulevard—anything connected to a certain aesthetic that we associate with camp or just glamour.

Sometimes I’d use a number. I’d go, “Oh, I think he should be at a 7 here.”

I had spoken to Michael about it conceptually when we were doing Traffic, but when I started researching Liberace, I was really having trouble figuring out what the angle should be. I didn’t want it to be a traditional biopic.

Yeah. But more often than not, he and Matt would both tell you that once you put on the outfit and the hair and everything, you’re kind of there. I don’t remember having to really talk about how gay I wanted them to be. (Michael) would just show up in that outfit with that hair and it was happening.

It was a friend of mine in New York who made me aware of Thorson’s book (Behind the Candelabra: My Life with Liberace). Once I read that, it solved all my problems. That was six years ago. So we’re sort of experiencing everything through his eyes. He’s Alice going down the rabbit hole.

What did you know about Liberace before reading Thorson’s book?

I’m old enough to have seen him on TV when he was still performing. I was, however, young enough to not really be able to articulate what was distinctive about him. (Laughs) But I remember my parents always made a point of turning on that channel if they knew he was going to be on 34 // davidatlanta.com

A 7 on the flamboyancy scale?

Was there a scene where you told them to take it to a 10?

The first meeting where Lee (the name close friends called Liberace) first meets Scott backstage, I would’ve said to Michael, “OK, this is about as far as I want you to go. Take it as far as you feel comfortable.”

The sexual tension was so palpable my screen was sweating.

(Laughs) One of the things I liked about it is this sort of Sunset Boulevard dynamic in terms of the age difference and the fact

that Scott shows up and Lee’s giving him elevator eyes.

get picked up by a major studio but a movie that exploits violence does?

Matt had said that it’s a challenge creating chemistry with someone you wouldn’t normally be That’s more about the culture at large than it is about the attracted to. As the director, was it a challenge to studios. They don’t give a shit. If movies like this were makmake this relationship seem real? ing a lot of money, that’s all they’d be making. The reason you don’t see more movies made with non-white protagoThe key, which they understood intuitively, was: The nists as leads is because, in our culture, non-white audichemistry was going to come from the comfort level, and the ences go in significant numbers to see movies with white more comfortable they felt with each other and the more that protagonists, but white audiences do not return the favor. It’s it seemed, “Oh, this is how people act when there is not a not reciprocal, and that’s the only reason that movies lack so camera around,” that’s what would sell it. Just being totally much diversity. inside of it and never stepping out of it and looking back at it.

You have to just jump into the hot tub, and that’s what I think Did you know going in that a movie about Libreally sells it when I see the movie. They seem so comforterace would be a tough sell? able with each other.

Yeah, I knew it would be tough, but I didn’t think it would be And only one take for the sex scene where Matt is impossible. If it wasn’t for HBO, I don’t think we would’ve on top of Michael—really? been able to get it made.

(Laughs) I said, “OK, Mike, you’ve gotta be able to reach the amyl nitrates, so you should be here. Matt, you’re gonna be on top of him here. I’m gonna drop the camera down here.”

We did a take, there was a long pause and I was just like, “I don’t have any notes. That’s that.”

How did you perceive their relationship?

I took the relationship at face value, and I believed that it was a real relationship and that they did love each other. It’s a very weird environment in which to maintain any relationship, but I felt that it was a sincere relationship and that they Not that I was counting, but there were three Matt were both broken but in different ways, and so there was a Damon ass shots. When is an ass shot necessary kindred feeling somehow. and when is it gratuitous?

And that last scene really brings authenticity to In this case, it would’ve been more awkward and distracting the relationship. if you somehow didn’t show it. But none of that was planned.

Matt’s in his robe and he gets into bed, and in another scene When I read the book, it convinced me that this was worth he’s getting out of the hot tub. It’s all stuff that was motidoing, because it really surprised me. The way the movie vated; I guess that’s really what it comes down to. lands emotionally is really unexpected—and in the book, I just found that scene incredibly moving and sad.

“Gratuitous” means they’re doing something they wouldn’t normally do to create an ass shot, and that’s not how we Do you see this film and Liberace’s life as a cauwere thinking. Though I certainly had it in mind when Matt tionary tale at all? came to the set and said, “You’re not gonna believe the Brazilian tan line I got from the spray guy. The world has to No. I guess when I look at it, there’s just more of a frustration see this.” (Laughs) that there was this added pressure because of the time period—the pressure of hiding the relationship and then, of Studios turned down the film because they said it course, the threat of mortality that was circulating amongst was “too gay.” What exactly is “too gay”? the gay community during that period. I mean, I lived for nine months with my sister in San Francisco during the summer They weren’t convinced that anybody who’s not gay is going of ’80 through the spring of ’81 on Market Street. If I was to want to see it. That was really their attitude. It’s not like, gay, I’d be dead. That was ground zero.

“We don’t like gay people.” They had concerns about how to sell it. And when you’re just looking at it on paper, and then What was that experience like for you? when you see what Michael and Matt did, I get why they couldn’t see it. I was just frustrated that they didn’t believe It was interesting to be 17 and walk down the street and have somethat we could see it. body look at me in the way that I’d be looking at girls. (Laughs) That was the first time being exposed to that, but it wasn’t a problem. The What do you think it says about Hollywood and friends I did have that were gay and sexually active were really, really society when a movie about two gay men won’t paranoid and being super safe. They were scared.

36 // davidatlanta.com

Side Effects?

It’s a classic case of everybody realizing everything too late.

I always wish we could think 50 years in the future when we look at what’s going on right now in terms of equal rights. I’m just sitting here going, “50 years from now, we’re going to be wondering why we were even arguing about this.” Why can’t we just pretend that it’s 50 years later and just end it now?

On behalf of the gay community, I would like to thank you for Magic Mike.

(Laughs) It’s so funny, because that was such a huge part of the success of the film—the attention it was given from that community from the minute it was announced. It was such a chatter magnet and, honestly, that was part of the reason why Warner Bros. came in while we were shooting and picked the movie up. This is not something they typically do.

This was an independently financed movie that they came and bought while it was shooting. I can’t even tell you the last time they did that, and that was because they had a feeling that this thing was going to have some cultural traction because of all the Internet attention it was getting.

With Magic Mike 2, have you thought about where you want the story to go?

I knew that was coming. I thought, “Look, these kind of things swing in both directions.” You get people who are so on guard that it’s hard for them—especially, when they’re looking at a piece of art—to drop the ideology and look at the macro of it. They’re just reacting with their amygdala instead of their prefrontal cortex and they’re crying foul and you go, “No, actually, if you break this down, you only got halfway there before you started yelling.”

Yeah, there was a bit of a flash mob about it initially. I was trying to explain that—actually, she’s not a lesbian. She’s just a fucking opportunist! (Laughs) Side Effects was supposed to be your last film.

What made you put retirement on hold for Behind the Candelabra?

The movie was supposed to happen earlier and it didn’t. I decided that, actually, this is great if this were—and I’m not saying it will be—the last movie I ever made. I would be very happy. I feel like it’s connected in a lot of ways to the first film I ever made, and it’s also a progression.

Can you talk about the connection between this film and Sex, Lies, and Videotape?

We actually just had a meeting about it the other day. It’s getting pretty far along. They’ve got a good idea. There were some stories and events that Channing lived through that we just couldn’t fit in the first one. One of them is a really hilarious and very cinematic idea that we reluctantly didn’t put in the first film, because it was such a big idea you could build a whole film out of it—but we didn’t want to build that film out of it. It’s perfect for this, though.

The connection is that it’s completely relationship driven, and most of it is about two people in a room ... except the room is now a hot tub. (Laughs) It’s a progression in the sense that it’s a much more mature piece of work than my first film— obviously, it ought to be—but I’m able to do things, having done it for 24 years, that I wasn’t able to do back then.

Are you still retiring?

How involved will you be?

I want to help. I have some proprietary feelings about it, obviously. I want to make sure it gets done and done well, so we meet every couple of weeks to talk about where it’s going. But it’s gonna be good. It’s a good idea. It’s not a retread. And there will be more time spent with the characters—all of them.

In terms of movies, it’s going to be a break. I don’t know how extended. I’m just taking a break from that specific kind of work for a while to see if I can tear everything down and rebuild it. See if I can come back different.

You’re not gonna tell me the idea, are you?

Yeah, I don’t want to share the details.

Is the original cast returning?

Oh yeah!

What did you make of the flack you received for the lesbian-killer character in 38 // davidatlanta.com

photo: Claudette Barius/HBO

theScene 1

10th & Piedmont 991 Piedmont Ave. NE

14 Cowtippers

27 Las Margaritas

40 Tripps

2

Amsterdam 502 Amsterdam Ave. NE

15 Daiquiri Factory

28 Manifest 4 U

41 Urban Body Fitness

3

Atlanta Eagle 306 Ponce De Leon Ave. NE

16 Einstein's

29 Mixx

42 Woof's

4

BJ Roosters 2043 Cheshire Bridge Rd.

17 F.R.O.G.S

30 Oscar's

43 XS Ultra Lounge

5

Blake's 227 10th St. NE

18 Felix's

31 Opus 1

6

Bliss 2284 Cheshire Bridge Rd.

19 Flex Spa

32 Roxx

7

Boy Next Door 1447 Piedmont Ave. NE

20 Friends

33 Sam's Hair Salon

Le Buzz 585 Franklin Rd. SE Marietta, GA

8

Brushstrokes 1510 Piedmont Ave. NE

21 Gatsby's

34 Southern Nights

Mary's 1287 Glenwood Ave. SE

9

Bubbles Salon 1579 Monroe Dr. NE

22 Gilbert's

35 Ten Atlanta

My Sister's Room 1271 Glenwood Ave. SE

10 Bulldogs

23 Heretic

36 The Den

Rush Lounge 2715 Buford Hwy. NE

11 Burkhart's

24 Hobnob

37 The Fifth Ivory

Sister Louisa’s Church 466 Edgewood Ave. SE

12 Capulets

25 Joe's on Juniper

38 The Hideaway

Swinging Richard's 1400 Northside Dr. NW

13 Club Eros

26 Jungle

39 The Model T

The Bar Fitness 908 Bowen St. NW

893 Peachtree St. NE 1492 Piedmont Ave. NE 1510 Piedmont Ave. NE 2219 Faulkner Rd. NE

1600 Piedmont Ave. NE 889 W. Peachtree Str. NW 1077 Juniper St. NE 931 Monroe Cir. NE 1510 Piedmont Ave. NE 76 4th St. NW

1842 Cheshire Bridge Rd.

1931 Piedmont Cir. NE

2103 Faulkner Rd. NE

500 Amsterdam Ave. NE

1492 Piedmont Ave. NE

2425 Piedmont Rd. NE

1510 Piedmont Ave. NE

708 Spring Str. NW Not Shown: Cockpit 465 Boulevard SE

1086 Alco St. NE 1824 Cheshire Bridge Rd.

736 Ponce De Leon Ave. NE 931 Monroe Dr. NE 219 10th St. NE

2000 Cheshire Bridge Rd. 2205 Cheshire Bridge Rd. 990 Piedmont Ave. Ne

2069 Cheshire Bridge Rd. 1551 Piedmont Ave. NE 1049 Juniper Str. NE 2115 Faulkner Rd. NE

2135 Liddell Dr. NE 794 Juniper Str. NE 1544 Piedmont Ave. NE 699 Ponce De Leon Ave. NE

Bar/Cocktails

Retail

Dining

Billiards/Darts

Dancing

Dancers

Non-Smoking

Leather

Hair/Beauty

Fitness

Drag

Baths/Spa

42 // davidatlanta.com

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@DavidAtlantaGA // 43

Bartab

got an upcoming event? calendar@davidatlanta.com

MONDAY

model t Party with Elvis - 9 pm oscar’s Ruby Redd’s After Party - 10 pm BLAKE’S Game Night - Trivia/Family Feud swinging richards 2-4-1 VIP Room 11pm ten atlanta Drag-a-maki w/ Kitty BURKHART’S Blue Monday Karaoke w/ LeClaw 8:30pm Angelica D’Paige 11:30pm tripp’s Free Taco Bar 5pm COCKPIT Big Red Cup All Day, specials xcess ultra lounge Raquell Lord’s EAGLE Music Videos with Scotty Talent Show 10:30pm, Sophia Mcintosh & FELIX’S Free Pool Fab 5 +1 11:30pm, 18+ FRIENDS Manic Mondays DJ opens - 2 pm woof’s Food Special, Trivia 8pm HERETIC Play w/ Eddie 4pm-11pm HIDEAWAY $2.50 Domestic Beer JUNGLE Stars of the Century Show 11pm blake’s Texas Hold’Em Poker 7pm, “Guys MODEL T Monday Night Madness Free & Dolls” with Shawnna Brooks. 11pm Pool - 10pm - 2am BURKHART’S Twisted Thursday w/ OSCAR’S Midtown Martini Club - 4 pm | Phoenix 11:30pm Service Industry Night - 9 pm cockpit Dirty Boy Bingo w/ Ruby Redd swinging richards Hip-Hop Night, eagle Balls Deep Karaoke w/ Mikey Sponsored by Hennessy 6:30pm felix’s Karaoke w/ Brett & Tyler 10pm ten atlanta Poker Night TRIPP’S Monday Nite Madness w/ Tana 9pm friends Where Girls would like Girls meet Girls with Regina Simms 8 pm WOOF’S Texas Hold ‘Em Poker 8pm Gilbert’s Wine tasting 6-10pm heretic 3 Legged Cowboy Night 9pm hideaway Service Industry Night BLAKE’S POP! Karaoke with Sasie Monroe jungle Members Only with Evah and Suzanne Gleeson 11pm Destruction 10pm BURKHART’S Trivia Tuesday Karaoke w/ mIXX Gentlemen Cocktails with Aaron & Angelica D’Paige 11:30pm Matt at 6pm club rush “Tipsy Tuesday” 18 & up model t Party Time with Michael - 9 pm Open until 4am oscar’s The Charlie Brown Show - 10 pm COCKPIT 80s Party 9pm, specials 5-8pm swinging richards 2-4-1 VIP & Entry EAGLE Tuesdays w/ Tony xcess ultra lounge Turnt Up Thursday FELIX’S Smirnoff Martini Night woof’s Food Special, Country Music 7pm FRIENDS Let’s Make A Deal with Ken 6 pm Gilbert’s Industry Night (complementary pizza after 10pm) HERETIC 2-Step Tuesday, dance till 11pm 10th & piedmont Live DJ 10 PM blake’s 5-9pm TGIF, Charlie’s Angels w/ HIDEAWAY Trivia with Wil 9 pm Charlie Brown 11pm JUNGLE Camp with Ruby Redd 8pm BURKHART’S Fab Five w/ Angelica MIXX Piano with David Reeb at 8pm D’Paige 11:30pm MODEL T Wii Tuesday Afternoons 2pm club rush “Got Leche” Free entry until 9pm $2.50 beer / $3.0 well vodka 11pm 18 & up - Open until 4am OSCAR’S Show Tune Tuesday - 8 pm cockpit DJ Diablo Rojo, guest VJ/DJ’s SWINGING RICHARDS 1/2 Price cover eagle DJ Dance Party WOOF’S Industry Day Free Wii 5pm friends Happy Time Friday Kelly & Ken 6 pm heretic No cover B4 11pm hideaway Kick Back Fridays!

BLAKE’S 5-9pm Doug’s party pop hits, jungle The Other Show with Edie CheezCharlie Harding’s Hard Body Party 11 pm burger 9:30pm; Jungle POP 11pm BURKHART’S Humpday Karaoke w/ mixx Ron’s End of the Week Party 4pm | Darlene Majewski 11:30pm Grown & Sexy Dance 10 pm COCKPIT Balls Deep Karaoke 10pm model t Friday Bagels - 10 am | Texas EAGLE Underwear Night with Tony Holdem Poker 8 pm Friends Trivia with “Boom Boom” 8 pm oscar’s Spotlight Karaoke at 9pm Gilbert’s Karaoke 10pm-2am swinging richards T-Shirt Review,$10 heretic No Cover! ten atlanta Music by George Greenlee hideaway 1/2 Price Beer tripp’s Afternoon Delights 4pm jungle Dragamaniacs with Nicole Paige woof’s Atlanta’s Best Social Night 6pm Brooks and Phoenix 10pm

THURSDAY

TUESDAY

FRIDAY

WEDNESDAY

44 // davidatlanta.com

SATURDAY

10th & piedmont Live DJ 10 PM blake’s Open at 1pm, Daring Divas 11pm BURKHART’S Extravaganza w/ Shavonna B. Brooks 11:30pm cockpit DJ Diablo Rojo, guest VJ/DJ’s eagle DJ Dance Party felix’s Karaoke w/ Brett & Tyler 10pm friends Free Pool and Cheap beer with DJ! 2 pm - 6 pm Gilbert’s All you care to eat brunch (cooked to order) 11-4pm heretic Varies: Club Night or 3 Legged Cowboy Night - 10pm hideaway Open at 12:30pm! Saturday Night Party jungle Foreplay with Lily White 9:30pm; Club Night, Various Guest DJ’s mixx Guest DJ’s Dance 10pm model t Texas Holdem Poker - 3 pm | Party with the M&M Boiz - 9 pm oscar’s Spotlight Karaoke at 9pm swinging richards T-Shirt Review $10 ten atlanta Music by George Greenlee tripp’s Afternoon Cookout 3pm xcess ultra lounge 25+ FREE til 12am woof’s Game Day All Day

SUNDAY

10th & piedmont Bellini Brunch 11 AM & T-Dance 4 PM blake’s Open at 1pm - High Energy Music & Video w/ Bill Berdeaux & Daryl Cox BURKHART’S Armorettes Drag Show club rush Hip Hop and R&B - 18 & up Open until 4am cockpit PBR Beer Bust felix’s Bloody Marys & Mimosas friends DJ’s Smirnoff B Mary Bar “A Garden in a Glass” - 12:30 pm Gilbert’s All you care to eat brunch (cooked to order) 11-4pm and Karaoke 6-11:30pm hideaway Atlanta’s Favorite Bloody Mary Bar! 12:30 pm Jungle The Day After with Knomie Moore 12-3pm; Sweet T with Bubba Dee and Wild Cherry Sucret 7pm las margaritas All You Can Eat til 3pm mixx Old School Sunday Dance 7pm model t Sunday Dinner with Ron 3:30 pm oscar’s Sunday Fun-day ten atlanta Music by George Greenlee tripp’s Buffet of Goodness - 3 pm | Karaoke - 7 pm woof’s Bloody Mary bar, PBR special

Datebook

The Big Peach Tournament When some 49 LGBT softball teams gather at the Metro Atlanta Softball Complex (“Metro fields”) over Memorial Day weekend, chances are that there will be as many rainbow colors as there will be bats and balls. Set for May 24–26, the Big Peach Softball Tournament is one of the—if not the—largest gay softball tourneys in the United States, according to Kyle Miller, commissioner of Hotlanta Softball League, which produces the tournament.

For more information on the Big Peach Tournament, check out our interview with Miller at davidatlanta.com, or visit hslbigpeach.com.

theRundown Big Peach Kickoff Party

May 23 • 6 p.m. • F.R.O.G.S. (931 Monroe Drive)

DJ Joey S and a $10 beer bust help kick off the Hotlanta Softball League’s Big Peach Tournament. For more information, visit hotlantasoftball.org.

Raven: Live

May 23–24 • 11 p.m. • Burkhart’s (1492 Piedmont Ave. NE)

RuPaul’s Drag Race sensation Raven is the latest alum to make her way to Burkhart’s. For more information, visit burkharts.com.

Atlanta Jazz Festival

May 25–27 • All Day • Piedmont Park The Atlanta Jazz Festival brings a diverse group of performers to Piedmont Park for free all weekend long. For more information, visit atlantafestivals.com.

Decatur Arts Festival May 25–26 • All Day • Decatur Square

The Decatur Arts Festival brings two days of art, music, theater and more to Downtown Decatur. For more information on particular performances, visit decaturartsfestival.com.

Lucas Miré: Live

IN THEATRES THIS WEEK Ready for more mindless action and muscles? Vin Diesel and Dwayne Johnson return to Fast & Furious 6 for more globetrotting scenes involving cars and other vehicles, along with some good old-fashioned homoerotic tension.

ALSO IN THEATRES: The Hangover Part III: The Wolfpack Trilogy comes to a close in what’s sure to be cringe-inducing fashion.

Epic: Fox’s latest animated film includes amongst its all-star cast Beyoncé playing a queen. Sounds about right.

Love Is All You Need: Opening exclusively at Regal Tara. This bilingual film (English and Danish) finds Pierce Brosnan playing a widower whose life becomes intertwined with his son’s future mother-in-law.

Scatter My Ashes at Bergdorf’s: Opening exclusively at Regal Tara.

The world-famous department store is the subject of this documentary, which includes scores of interviews with fashion icons.

May 25 • 7 p.m. • Eddie’s Attic (515 N. Mc Donough St., Decatur)

Join gay singer-songwriter Lucas Miré as he performs material from his new album, Following the Landslide, at Eddie’s Attic. For more information, visit eddiesattic.com.

Laugh Your Balls Off May 28 • 8:30 p.m. • Cockpit (465 Boulevard SE)

Cockpit brings hot, hilarious queer (plus some straight) comedians to this monthly event, hosted by Ian Aber. For more information, visit facebook.com/cockpit.atlanta.

Dining for Charis

May 29 • 5 p.m. • Wahoo!

(1042 W. College Ave., Decatur)

Dining out Wednesday night? Why not support Charis in the process? Mention that you’re dining out with Charis tonight, and Wahoo! will give 10% of its profits to Charis. For more information, visit charisbooksandmore.com or wahoogrilldecatur.com. @DavidAtlantaGA // 45

50 // davidatlanta.com

F

eeling a little kinky? The guys over at Fort Troff know how you feel. A decade ago, the Atlanta-based company launched their website to fill the void of gay-specific kink retailers online.

These days, Fort Troff is one of the most notorious suppliers of fetish gear in the world. Their edgy, NSFW photo shoots and accompanying product demonstration videos have raised the store’s profile, and their ever-expanding product line—including a Fort Troff exclusive line, FT GRUNT, that’s launching now—keeps loyal customers coming back.

In the midst of a busy season for Fort Troff—Chicago’s International Mr. Leather starts this weekend, and the men are preparing for their appearance at the event— they discussed the origins of Fort Troff, some of their unique product lines, and how they select their models. @DavidAtlantaGA // 51

Can you tell me about the history of Fort Troff— when and why it was founded, changes that have taken place over the years, etc.?

Fort Troff started about 10 years ago right here in Atlanta.

Knowing that there was little to no available market for gay men into kink, especially online, [CEO] General Hawk took a shot in the dark and started Fort Troff.

There was very little to our store at that time. We sold some cockrings, dildos, and sling stands. Fort Troff was completely run out of Hawk’s basement…that’s how small it was.

We also ran a small monthly party here in Atlanta that quickly became a very big party. Thanks to those parties, Fort Troff as a name and brand began to grow. We’ve since then moved away from the parties, and have outgrown two different warehouse spaces and a studio. It’s almost unreal how quickly Fort Troff has grown.

52 // davidatlanta.com

Outside of its online business, is there anything else that Fort Troff does, such as appearances at events?

Since we are an online-based store, we do our best to set up shop at some of the bigger and smaller known fetish events around the country. You can find us at International Mr. Leather, Mid-Atlantic Leather Weekend, Cleveland Leather Annual Weekend, Folsom Street Fair SF, Black Party, and the Las Vegas Smoke Out, just to name a few.

We recently sponsored a Hanky Code Party at Mary’s in EAV, which was amazing, and will also do some sponsorship for the Black and Blue Bound in Leather night and lube wrestling event that is taking place at the Atlanta Eagle in June. We hope this is just the beginning; we want to make a known presence here in Atlanta.

54 // davidatlanta.com

There’s a new apparel line coming soon from Fort Troff—FT GRUNT. What led Fort Troff to create its own apparel line?

We’re lucky to have the relationship that we do with some of the best manufacturers in the adult toy and apparel industry. Because of that, we’ve always had a strong hand in the creative process. We’ve been talking about putting FT GRUNT out for a while now and nobody better to collaborate with than reigning kings of jock straps, Timoteo.

FT GRUNT is a great line of sporty, kinky under gear that definitely has that Fort Troff touch to it.

What does the line include?

This will be an ever-growing line of gear. As of now, we have your classic athletic jock, lace up boxer cut jock, lace up football shorts and a pair of shorts that was specifically designed to accommodate the Raw Dawg, which is a top seller in the store and in our opinion, the most innovative sex toy of 2013. We’ve also have great accessories like gauntlets and socks to really pull the GRUNT look together.

When does it become available?

FT GRUNT goes live this Thursday 5-16-13.

Another one of Fort Troff’s signature in-house items is FT Cum Lube. How did this product come about?

The boys here at the Fort have a serious splooge fetish.

Nothing better than a hot load, so when we started getting samples of lube that looked like cum, we jumped on it. We’re not the only brand of cum lube on the market but FT CUM LUBE is a great hybrid cum lube that is toy and condom safe for the best price. And no, it doesn’t taste like cum, so don’t eat it. We get that question a lot. @DavidAtlantaGA // 55

What are your biggest-selling items?

We have a store of 500+ items so we’ve got you covered, whether it be cockrings to sling stands, vanilla to hardcore, Fort Troff has it all.

Some of our hottest selling items are the Raw Dawg, which is an Fort Troff exclusive. The Raw Dawg is an innovative mix of cock sheath and butt plug. You definitely have to watch the videos on our website…you won’t be disappointed. The Raw Dawg is manufactured by Perfect Fit Brand and made out of non-porous, ultra durable Siliskin (silicone/TPR mix). Over 1,500 units have sold this year so we’re very excited about this product.

56 // davidatlanta.com

Another is our FT Rock Steady Sling Stand. First off, a sling stand belongs in everybody’s home. If you need convincing, we’ve got videos on our site for that too. Our sling stand is a patented design that is sturdy and collapsible. Goes up and comes down in five minutes. You can go basic or all out with your sling stand. We’ve got amazing accessories to pimp your sling for days.

Are there any particular new products coming soon, aside from the FT GRUNT line?

There are always new items in the works but for now, our focus is on FT GRUNT and new slimmer Raw Dawg.

Fort Troff’s known for their edgy, NSFW promo photos and videos. How are your models selected?

We take a lot of pride in our photo and video shoots. We want to show you the product in the best possible way and look really good while doing it. Our shoots have come a long way from even two years ago. We’ve got a nice big studio to work out of now and models hitting us up to shoot with us. Don’t get me wrong…we are always on the lookout for hot new Fort Troff models. We love the armature guys so if any of you guys reading this think you have what it takes to be a Fort Troff model, hit us up.

58 // davidatlanta.com

@DavidAtlantaGA // 59

@DavidAtlantaGA // 61

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thanks for your continued support!

@DavidAtlantaGA // 69

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fairyscopes ARIES (March 20 – April 19): Women will be prominent in your life today—if you receive an impromptu invitation from a female friend or relative, accept it (even if it’s a bit inconvenient). You’ll be very glad you did.

LIBRA (September 23 – October 22): Don’t duck out of an obligation when a very attractive social invitation comes your way today. Get your work done first, even if that means you arrive at the party late. You’ll still have a great time.

TAURUS (April 20 – May 20): Watch what you say

SCORPIO (October 23 – November 21): You

today—you are in danger of accidentally revealing a secret that you’ve sworn to keep—and doing so could be very hurtful. Avoid gossipy conversations, just to be safe.

are extremely powerful right now, in all areas of your life—you should have no trouble achieving just about anything you apply yourself to today. So think big—and act even bigger.

GEMINI (May 21- June 20): Use as little electricity as possible today—paradoxically, this will keep your own energy levels high. You may find a new way to conserve every day—if so, share it with a friend (or two).

SAGITTARIUS (November 22 – December 20): If you meet a very attractive man in a professional context today, don’t let his good looks sway you—he may be charming, but you need to stand your ground. He’s not really romance material, anyway.

CANCER (June 21- July 22): Seek out solitude

CAPRICORN (December 21 – January 19): You

today—and don’t spend your evening in front of the TV or online. You need to spend some time focusing on your thoughts—writing down your feelings will help you tackle an important issue.

were right all along—and now everyone else realizes it.

But this is not a good time to say ‘I told you so.’ Instead, help everyone adjust to this new reality. Next time, no one will doubt you.

LEO (July 23 – August 22): Your sense of smell will

AQUARIUS (January 20 – February 18): Physical

likely be heightened today and it will likely be very important. Pay attention to what your nose is telling you. If you normally wear cologne, skip it today, so you’ll have olfactory clarity.

activity of all sorts is favored today, so it may be time to look into revamping your workout routine. There are many more ways to stay fit than the same old machines at the gym.

VIRGO (August 23 – September 22): Seek out group activities and large crowds today—you’ll be energized by other people. If you have a job to do, ask others to join you—and then offer to help them, in turn.

PISCES (February 19 – March 19): There’s a chance that your recent focus on a new relationship has left someone who has loved you for years feeling somewhat neglected. (Call the person who just came to your mind, and make some plans.)

72 // davidatlanta.com

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@DavidAtlantaGA // 73

74 // davidatlanta.com

I pretend like I don’t care, but deep down inside...I still don’t care.

Stop inviting me to events. My thumb hurts from hitting “decline” all the time.

I’m at that age where I’m too smart to record a sex tape and… wait, what’s the red light mean?

Whatever happened to “long term relationships”?

Oh yeah. Grindr.

Dear homophobic basketball players: you play games for a living.

David Atlanta should be renamed “Advertisement Central.”

76 // davidatlanta.com

Nancy Grace is basically your favorite Dynasty character, as played by Foghorn Leghorn.

There needs to be a day between Saturday and Sunday.

It’s a beautiful day! I think I’ll skip my meds and stir things up a bit.

Should I be ashamed of the fact that I fucked three out of five guys in a friend group, or should I just go five for five? *This page reflects the bitchiness of the community not David Atlanta or its publisher (although we’re bitchy too!)

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