David Atlanta Magazine - Issue 58

7.17.13 #58

JOINING HEARTS Celebrates 26 Years of Fundraising

Andrew Christian Pushes Boundaries with His Marketing

m o r f e t o r N o t A the Edi 7.17.13 Issue #58

STAFF MANAGEMENT David Thompson Publisher | david@davidatlanta.com Elijah Sarkesian Editor in Chief elijah@davidatlanta.com Joe Ragsdale Art Director ragsdale@davidatlanta.com Bob Gunby Sales Director | bob@davidatlanta.com

EDITORIAL Rian Ashlei Chris Azzopardi Paul Conroy Christina Dore Kelli Goldman Van Gower Nicholas Grant Dylan Michael Clayton Morey Brent Star Taylor Trimble

SALES Steve Tyrrell steve@davidatlanta.com

PHOTOGRAPHY Vandreena Cotton Brian Hughes

T

Joining Hearts

his week, we give you a look at Joining Hearts 26, the latest in the organization’s annual pool parties. It may be a great way to spend the day outside – and let’s be honest here, the eye candy certainly doesn’t hurt – but it’s worth remembering the purpose behind the event.

Back when HIV and AIDS were first rearing their ugly heads, huge sections of our community were affected. Death may have been all but a certainty, but beyond that, the chances for job loss and homelessness were substantial.

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That’s where organizations like Joining Hearts and its beneficiaries, AID Atlanta and Jerusalem House, came in. In part through fundraising efforts, they’ve been a tremendous help to our community over the years. While HIV may no longer be a death sentence, it’s still not easy to handle. Joining Hearts helps us deal with the continuing ramifications of these infections in our community.

And of course, they provide plenty of eye candy. Don’t forget the eye candy.

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.

TOC

7.17.13 Issue #58

Cover >

Joining Hearts Andrew Christian

16 44

Feature > Joe Gauthreaux Morgan McMichaels Spring Awakenings The Unsung Stories

22 30 34 52

Seen@ > Blake’s 10 BJ Roosters 38 Atlanta Bear Fest 66 Heretic 52

The Rest >

16

44

Creep of the Week 12 Cocktail Chatter 56 the Scene 60 Bartab 62 Datebook 64 Comics 68 Untucked with Brent Star 69 Fairyscopes 72 Classifieds 73 Bitch, Please!

76

COVER: PHOTOGRAPHER Shawn Adeli 8 // davidatlanta.com

22 30

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creep

of the week: Tony Perkins

And by “this,” I assume he means his carjacking analogy because I am having a lot of trouble picturing Justice Anthony Kennedy, who cast the deciding vote in the DOMA case, pistol whipping a soccer mom at a gas station and taking off in her mini van.

But I guess I just lack Perkins’ vivid and bizarre imagination.

“Americans will begin to see that with same-sex marriage does not come a hope chest, rather it’s a Pandora’s box,” he continued.

Oh boy, here we go. The reality train is about to jump the rails.

“We’ll see parents who pay taxes to send their kids to school, those schools are going to start teaching those children values that are in contrast with the parents,” Perkins wailed.

Oh, the horror! God forbid children be exposed to a world where not everyone agrees with and thinks like them! Listen, if you’re terrified that the “values” you’ve been teaching your kids will be exposed as bullshit the minute your kid starts public school, then it’s time to reevaluate your values.

“We’re already seeing bakers and florists and photographers forced to participate in same-sex marriages under the threat of law and in some cases even jail!” Perkins continued. “I can’t think of anything that’s more un-American than that.”

By D’Anne Witkowski

A

nd so it was that the Defense of Marriage Act was declared unconstitutional by the Supreme Court and Prop 8 was dead in California. And the gays did celebrate across the land.

Oh, hey, I can think of something more un-American than that: saddling a specific segment of the population with a law solely intended to demean and humiliate their love lives and their families and relegate them to second-class citizen status.

But no, to Perkins it’s un-American to tell a florist they can’t say no to a lesbian couple, “Oh, I won’t do the flowers for your wedding because you make Jesus puke.” Because Meanwhile, after crying many tears, Family Research that’s protected religious speech, according to Perkins.

Council President Tony Perkins went on Meet the Press to apologize to LGBT people. “I was wrong,” he said, “and also Never mind that if this same florist said such a thing to, a real dick. I’m sorry.” He then pulled off his microphone and say, an interracial couple, their shop would be vilified by everyone but the most ardent Paula Deen supporters. walked into the ocean. He was last spotted on a gay cruise ship performing his one man comedic monologue “Research When Face the Nation host Bob Schieffer points out that THIS: How I Learned to Stop Worrying and Love the Gays.” support for marriage equality is on the rise and that Perkins may be “behind the times” on this issue, Perkins brushes Ha ha, just kidding. Perkins did, indeed, go on Meet the him off saying that Americans are just going through a Press, but rather than apologizing, he equated people who vote in favor of marriage equality to people who use violence phase. to steal cars.

“I think as Americans see that there’s a lot more to samesex marriage than simply two people who love each other, “Essentially what (the Supreme Court) has done is that that they’ll have time to reconsider this,” he said, willfully they’ve dragged ‘we the people’ from behind the wheel of blind to the fact that scores of soldiers in the “culture war” this republic and carjacked the nation,” Perkins said. “And are jumping ship all around him. this never ends up good.”

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@DavidAtlantaGA // 13

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Returns to the Pool at Piedmont Park

By Kelli Goldman

W

ear your heart on your sleeve, barely wrap your package and join the local movement against homelessness and suffering of Atlanta citizens living with HIV/AIDS at Joining Hearts 26, the main event, on Saturday, July 20 from 4 – 11 p.m. at the Piedmont Park Aquatic Center.

Anyone who is anyone should attend this star-studded fundraising event. Come show your concern and support for those living with HIV/AIDS while also showing off that wet, tanned skin for a good cause. Beat the July heat and be seen by the pool, for an unforgettable evening soaking up the sun and free Smirnoff cocktails.

Started in 1987 with a group of friends each donating $100 to throw a formal, elegant party at the Golden Key Club. The proceeds would be donated to HIV/AIDS awareness, and they raised close to $10,000 that first event. In their second year, they narrowed their scope from HIV/AIDS awareness to those with critical housing needs living with HIV/AIDS in Atlanta. To date, Joining Hearts has donated over $1,589,500 to their beneficiaries, AID Atlanta and Jerusalem House.

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We sat down with the event coordinators of Joining Hearts to talk more about this year’s event, and the organization itself: What has caused the transition over the years from formalwear to swimwear at the Joining Hearts Main Event?

As the organization has grown over the years, so have our events. We have evolved with the community’s response and transformed many of our events to reflect the quality and taste our guests expect. As Joining Hearts has grown and evolved, we continue to stay true to our mission of providing housing for those men, women and children living with HIV / AIDS in the metro Atlanta community.

What percentage of donations does the Main Event provide in comparison to your overall annual donation amount?

As with all Joining Hearts events, 100% of ticket sales and tips are donated to our beneficiaries. Proceeds from our Main Event accounts for approximately 50% of the annual funds raised and donated by Joining Hearts to our beneficiaries.

So what’s new this year? And what’s the same? We have always had a great working relationship with both Piedmont Park and the City of Atlanta. They always Our Director of Events, Heath Loupe, has done amazing embrace the event and support the cause and Joining job this year with planning the event. We have an entire Hearts mission. Since returning to Piedmont Park in 2009 new DJ line up including DJ Luis Perez and DJ Remixer that relationship has grown even stronger and we work Joe Gauthreaux, who I’m sure will both turn it up and in conjunction with both Piedmont Park Conservancy out for the Atlanta crowd. The layout of the party will be and the City of Atlanta to streamline the process. Many similar to that in years past, but we have will be adding people think the Main Event just magically happens, but several state of the art design elements throughout the there is a lot of work that goes on behind the scenes, party including upgrades to our air conditioned VIP area and hundreds of volunteer hours that go into producing that will have more of a South Beach lounge feel. This an event this size. It is a collaboration of efforts by many year’s cocktail selections include the new Smirnoff Sorbet that make the event such a success. We spend approxiLight flavored vodkas. We are currently working on mately nine months planning the event and special entertainment that we hope comes to fruition to going through the necessary give this year’s guests another memorable Joining Hearts permitting and licensing experience that they will never forget. processes with the City of Atlanta, Piedmont How many tickets, VIP and General Admission, Park Conservancy, our are available this year?

Corporate Sponsors and preferred vendors.

General admission is currently sold out and there are a very limited number of VIP tickets left which are availY’all had your pick of able for purchase through our website while supplies organizations to benefit, last. Once the event is sold out, you can consider beso why did you choose coming a Patron or Sponsor which includes an invitation AID Atlanta and Jerusalem to a private reception on July 14th, VIP access to our House? main event on July 20th, and other Joining Hearts events for the remainder of our fiscal year. Patron and Sponsor donations to Joining Hearts are also tax deductible.

How about your relationship with the city and Piedmont Park… do they embrace the event?

photo: Rory Evans

photo: Rory Evans @DavidAtlantaGA // 17

photo: Rory Evans

Joe Gauthreaux

Each year the board of directors votes on the beneficiaries who will receive Joining Hearts funds. We have traditionally been donating to AID Atlanta and Jerusalem House because they are typically at the forefront and are the first line of advocacy and assistance for MetroAtlantans living with HIV / AIDS. We have a great working relationship with both AID Atlanta and Jerusalem House and feel their organizational structure best administers and allocates funds raised by Joining Hearts to those who desperately need temporary and permanent housing assistance.

Many Georgians are unaware that Georgia ranks sixth in the nation with Atlanta ranking fifth in the nation with the highest number of HIV infections. Joining Hearts is the largest non-governmental funds provider for housing support to our beneficiaries.

General Admission tickets are sold out, but a limited number of VIP tickets are still available at online at joininghearts.org. General Admission includes complimentary Smirnoff cocktails, light bites and fruit, and hours of dancing to the spinning magic of DJs Joe Gauthreaux and Luis Perez.

The VIP tickets are $175, and include all the goodies above, plus access to the private VIP bar with a wider selection of complimentary cocktails, delicious gourmet food catered by Bridge Catering, exclusive VIP lounge and comfortable air conditioning.

photo: Brian M Westbrook 18 // davidatlanta.com

photo: Rory Evans

100% of the ticket sales are donated to Joining Hearts’ beneficiaries, AID Atlanta and Jerusalem House. All bar tips will be entirely donated as well, so please tip your bartender generously!

If you are unable to attend but interested in helping Joining Hearts, check out their webpage at joininghearts. org. Click on the “Get Involved” tab to reveal other ways to help this crucial and imperative cause.

Pay Attention to the Details On July 18, from 7–10 p.m., there will be express checkin at Ten Atlanta, located on the corner of 10th and Piedmont, for guests who have already purchased VIP and General Admission passes to the event. Guests must bring their state issued identification for check-in, and must be 21 or older to attend.

There are a few rules to follow at Joining Hearts 26: Make sure you wear comfy shoes, as Greystone does not allow bare feet. During the event, please keep your butts and glass out of the pool and deck areas, and only bring personal items that you are able to keep on you at all times.

Joining Hearts encourages you to carpool or use UBER transportation service, which is offering a promotional rate with promo code JH26. For out-of-towners, or those looking to keep the party bumping all night, Loews Hotel Midtown is offering a promotional room rate of $159 per night with promo code JOINHEART. So now that you’ve got the down-low, get ready for a hot day of fundraising fun! Slather on the tanning oil, slide into your sexiest dinger clinger, and prepare to raise some dough for one of the community’s most exigent issues as you raise the sex-appeal bar for another year at the pool in the park. The Aquatic Center at Piedmont Park is located at 400 Park Drive NE in Atlanta. @DavidAtlantaGA // 19

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Joe Gauthreaux Getting to Know

BY VAN GOWER

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A

sk anyone who frequents the nightlife and party scenes, and they’ll tell you that for a shindig to be truly successful – especially in gay nightlife – all the right ingredients are essential and must be mixed in just the right way. If they’re not, your party can go sour and deflate quickly. If you have the right cook stirring the ingredients, however, you’re virtually guaranteed to have a hit soirée on your hands.

When it comes to the right cook or impresario to preside at party mixer, you’d pretty much need look no further than DJ Joe Gauthreaux. The New Orleans native is regularly called upon to man the decks at circuit parties, clubs, and summer celebrations around the world. Being in the upper echelon of DJ and remixing talents in the industry, his talents precede him wherever he goes. And being deliciously easy on the eyes as well, his legions of fans are, of course, always glad to see him.

Gauthreaux headlines at Joining Hearts 26 on July 20 at the Piedmont Park pool. And while the annual late-July party is guaranteed to be wet and wild fun as always, with ample man eye candy to go around, it’s also a party with a purpose: 100 percent of every dollar raised through ticket sales and tips is donated to AID Atlanta and Jerusalem House.

We checked in with Gauthreaux to learn more about the man, the music, and his upcoming Atlanta gig.

When and where did you get started as a DJ?

I started out as a happy hour DJ at Oz nightclub in New Orleans in 1996. Almost 20 years ago, but definitely seems like only yesterday at times. From there, I built my name up by word of mouth. No Internet or social media back then.

Are there any other renowned world DJs who you drew inspiration from when you were getting started?

Of course. Mostly it was Ric Herrington, who was the main resident at Oz. And then I heard a DJ named Susan Morabito from New York at the Halloween Party in New Orleans who started to inspire me as well.

New Orleans is obviously world renowned as an uninhibited party mecca with lots of stellar dance clubs. Were you able to fully nurture and develop your DJ and remix career there, or did you have to relocate elsewhere in order to get a more advanced musical education?

Well, I was able to build up a pretty good name for myself there in the beginning. But then I realized to take my career to the next level, I had to be in a city where I challenged more. So in the early 2000’s, I moved to New York, where I live today.

What city do you call home base now? Do you ever get to spend much time down time there, given how busy you are?

photo: Brian M Westbrook @DavidAtlantaGA // 23

photo: Brian M Westbrook 24 // davidatlanta.com

I always get back to New Orleans two or three times a year for guest DJ gigs at Oz. I’m there every year for Halloween and then for either Mardi Gras, New Year’s, or Decadence. It’s still one of my favorite rooms to play; always feels like home.

You regularly spin at a lot of parties across the country, so your popularity is obviously widespread. You’re one of the top go-to guys for high-energy sounds wherever you go. How does it make you feel to know that you have such an in-demand following?

Well, thank you for saying that. I never really let myself think that way, though. I just work every day like I’m the new kid on the block with something to prove. I think the second you let yourself believe that you don’t have to work as hard because you’ve “made it,” that’s when you start to go adrift.

What criteria do you use in deciding which artists’ songs that you’ll remix? What’s your creative process for reworking the songs once you take them on?

A lot of it is a remix I’ve been hired to do. But sometimes I do my own remixes of tracks that I really like. I’ve never remixed anything, paid or for myself, that I didn’t like.

So you’ve remixed artists like Tony Moran, Frenchie Davis, Kristine W., Bimbo Jones, and Ne-Yo. And I didn’t even know someone like Justin Bieber could be remixed. Who’s your favorite artist to re-work?

I don’t wanna name any favorites because it’s not fair to the artists who spend so much time making their songs.

I’ve liked them all in their own special way.

What are some of the most challenging or the most rewarding aspects of being a circuit DJ?

You have a music podcast on Podomatic.com, right? For guys who may not have heard it yet, what’s the podcast like? Is it all your own Getting to meet a lot of friends and people I wouldn’t have work, or do you give shout-outs to other DJnormally met. I have close friends all over the world. It’s remixers’ work too? Do you podcast on any very rewarding. other sites?

You’ve obviously DJ’d at venues and parties around the world. Where have some of your most enthusiastic and responsive audiences been?

I do a once-a-month podcast called “Monthly Mixdown.”

It’s a mixture of my favorite remixes by other producers along with my own productions. It’s available on Podomatic, Soundcloud, and iTunes.

Well, every crowd has their own unique charm to them, so it wouldn’t be fair to any of them to choose one over the other. But I will say there is nothing better than playing somewhere that you’ve at one point, past or present, have had an address at.

Where all can guys download or buy your tracks?

Is it difficult to predict the preferences and tastes of audiences from city to city? Do you tailor your sets to that, or do you just play what Joe wants to play?

Well, I think for me, I always have the crowd in my head.

I don’t want to go over the crowd’s head, but at the same time I don’t people who come to hear me want to hear a jukebox either. It’s a balancing act. But I’m pretty lucky in the fact that people that come to hear me like the journey that I’m ready to take them on.

I’m on iTunes, Juno, and Beatport.

You’ll be the headlining DJ at Joining Hearts 26 here in Atlanta on July 20. Tease us with the lowdown on what the guys will be hearing when you take over.

You’ll hear a lot of anthems, along with a lot of my exclusive remixes and mash-ups. It’ll be familiar, yet sound like a “Joe” set as well.

What are you most looking forward to at Joining Hearts?

The fireworks show. It’s a show I mixed myself, and I What do you prefer most: producing and remix- think everyone will love it. So be sure to stay ‘til the ing in the studio, or getting out among the party end! crowds and pumping up the energy at a venue?

DJ Joe Gauthreaux spins at Joining Hearts 26 on July They’re both very different beasts. It’s like comparing 20. For more information on Joe, visit djjoeg.com. apples and oranges. I honestly enjoy them both. @DavidAtlantaGA // 25

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5 Fast Facts:

Morgan McMichaels

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T

he flow of RuPaul’s Drag Race alumni into Atlanta continues as Morgan McMichaels stops

by Burkhart’s for a two-night stay on July 18 and 19. Before she makes her latest Atlanta appearance, get to know a little bit more about Morgan.

TION IN ADDI IN THE ’S EARING TO APP ON OF RUPAUL SEAS EARED SECOND , MORGAN APP F ACE NS O DRAG R THREE SEASO U AS IN ALL ’S DRAG L U A P U FR SPINOF PROFESSOR. A

MORGAN B ELIE TEENS IN C VES IN HELPING RISIS. SHE ENCOURAG THEM TO L E EAVE HER A MESSAG S E VIA SOCIAL ME DIA, AND SHE’LL CA LL THEM.

MORGAN M A.K.A. TH CMICHAELS, O WAS BOR MAS WHITE, N AND MO IN SCOTLAND VED TO T HE U.S. AT 18.

MORGAN CAN BE SEEN IN THE MUSIC VIDEO FOR RIHANNA’S “S&M.”

FROM TAKING A CUE , BELITERS LITTLE MONS ER FAN TH EBERS AND O ’S FANS GAN GROUPS, MOR ED ARE CALL .”

“MORGASMS

Morgan’s first night at Burkhart’s on July 18 plays as part of Dancefloor Divas, featuring fellow Drag Race alums Phoenix and Mariah Paris Balenciaga. The show also features Envy Van Michaels, Destiny Brooks, Alissah Brooks and Evah Destruction. The show starts at 11:30 p.m.

For her second appearance on July 19, Morgan appears in The Fab Five with Angelica D’Paige. Also appearing in the show are Regina Ryan, Gia Sunflowers, Phoenix and Mariah Paris Balenciaga. The show starts at 11 p.m.

Both shows, which are sponsored in part by Plaza Theatre and Bubbles Salon, will be followed by a meet and greet.

For more information, visit burkharts.com. @DavidAtlantaGA // 31

DUAL Awakenings

BY NICHOLAS GRANT

I

n 2006 Broadway was shaken to its’ core when Spring Awakening (with music by Duncan Sheik and a book and lyrics by Steven Sater) forced audiences to sit up and listen to the truths that young people have been facing for generations. Winning eight Tony Awards, as well as countless other accolades, the rock musical quickly established itself as a landmark show in the rich musical theatre landscape.

Christina Hoff: Musicals like Spring Awakening only come along once a generation. It’s the perfect combination of modern rock music, Broadway, teen angst, and genuine heartbreak.

Now Atlanta audiences have two exciting opportunities to see this poignant and beautiful show with productions from Newnan Theatre Company and Fabrefaction Theatre Company.

CH: The show celebrates the true lives of teens – the thoughts they aren’t allowed to openly discuss, the words they aren’t allowed to say, the conversations that are too awkward to have with adults etc. Clearly, Spring Awakening speaks to this generation in a major way.

Mandy Mitchell and Christina Hoff direct for Newnan and Fabrefaction, respectively, and they took some time to share some insights about the show and their individual productions.

What is it about Spring Awakening that makes it such an important musical?

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Mandy Mitchell: Spring Awakening is a story of growing up, but it’s told without glossing over the good angsty bits. There’s not a lot of sugar coating, which I like.

Do you think the show accurately portrays the thoughts and feelings of young people, and do you think those thoughts and feelings are timeless?

MM: We had a really great turnout at auditions of a lot of

Why do you think this show resonates with gay audiences?

CH: Spring Awakening is all about breaking free of repression and trying to find your way in the world. It’s a struggle growing up, and I think gay audiences can particularly identify with the metaphor of battling the strict society of Victorian Germany. We watch as all the characters try to make sense of their feelings.

MM: I think this show resonates for gay audiences because not only does it feature a young gay couple, it shows their hesitations, fears and insecurities.

CH: The Hanschen/Ernst storyline dynamically demonstrates the emotional and physical danger these young men put themselves through to find satisfaction and understanding. Ernst’s heartbreak and confusion about loving Hanschen is as real as any love story that has ever existed. I think when gay audiences watch this show they deeply feel the emotion as the characters discover love and try to come to terms with why it is forbidden.

Was it difficult to find age appropriate actors who were willing or able to portray gay characters onstage?

MM: Not at all. The young men we have playing those roles are wonderful. They play the parts beautifully. A love scene is a love scene, no matter who plays it.

CH: Our production is a training intensive for high school and college age actors. So, everyone who auditioned was already age appropriate, but I was shocked by how many students were high schoolers. I was genuinely expecting talented kids I think because of the accuracy of the show. our cast would be 90% college--but instead it is 90% I’d go as far as to say that Spring Awakening is to the high school. One of the most amazing things his how 2000’s what Rent was to the 90’s. mature the students have been about the subject matter.

Everyone walked into auditions with an understanding of CH: Absolutely without question. I was in my teens when the content of the show, and they are willing to portray this show first came out, and when we held auditions I these characters as truthfully as possible. Our cast feawasn’t sure if the show would “mean” as much to today’s tures gay, straight, not sure yet, etc. actors who are here to tell the story of their characters like pros. It’s really teens. To my surprise, it seems the musical has only resonated with young people more as time has passed. encouraging to watch how generous and supportive they I think growing up is confusing no matter what time or have all been toward each other. place you are in, and this show definitely has a timeless quality that appeals to today’s young people.

What challenges have you faced in staging this musical, which could be seen as controversial MM: It speaks to these kids because they are currently by older or more conservative audiences? growing up, who’s going to understand that better than them?

MM: I am very lucky to have a great team on this show.

So when it comes to staging, the choreographer (Susan CH: However, I don’t necessarily know if I can point to any Babcock) and I were there for each other. There is one one character or story line as the one that most adolesscene that could be a bit racy, but I think we have handled cents can identify with – instead, it’s the overall emotion it artfully and with the right amount of seen vs. not seen of the show that really hits home for them. elements @DavidAtlantaGA // 35

believe that we have the opportunity to create a dialogue here.

Do you think your community will embrace a show that uses real teenagers to show real issues that have, at some point in time, entered all of our minds?

CH: Well, with a mostly high school cast we are obviously not having any nudity onstage. So, one of our big challenges is how to toe the line without crossing it. We want to push the conversation about the topics brought up in the musical to audience without making them so uncomfortable that we lose them. In many ways, my actors are also going through their own “spring awakenings” so I am committed to them discovering who they are and growing as artists without also making them uncomfortable. It’s a delicate balance. The show is controversial, there’s no question about it. For many of these students it’s the first time their parents might not like watching them onstage or that they might be in a show that offends people--but I 36 // davidatlanta.com

CH: I believe that depends on the individual. In Midtown, I think many audience members will embrace the show with open arms because it will truly resonate with their struggles and life. For others, I think the issues will be way too real. But, that is why we are doing the show. Growing is uncomfortable for everyone involved, and we never stop growing. This show creates the opportunity for us to discuss these real issues openly with our real teens who are really going through them...whether we want to admit it or not!

MM: I certainly hope so! As a group of artists we can only hope to create beautiful work and have it affect our community; at least to start a conversation about these issues.

Spring Awakening runs at Newnan Theatre Company July 25–28. For information please visit newnantheatre.org. Fabrefaction’s production of Spring Awakening runs August 2–4. For information please visit fabrefaction.org.

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$99.99 Most cars and light trucks. See store for details. Not valid with any other offer. Does not apply to previous purchases. Must present coupon at time of service. Included up to 2 lbs. of freon.

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Smart,

Sexy or Smut?

Famed Fashion Designer Pushes the Boundaries in Promoting His Brand

44 // davidatlanta.com

By Ryan Dixon

photo: andrewchristianimages.com

I

n a world of high fashion and skinny models on runway, men’s wear designer Andrew Christian is pushing the limits of fashion, sexiness and what could be considered borderline smut. With a Tumblr page full of naked models and fans and viral videos that go from his website to YouTube, Andrew Christian is either the most ingenious business owner ever for tapping into a new breed of fashionistas or he’s using what we all know sells: sex.

young designer fans worldwide. His new use of social media has enabled him to tap into the hearts of a young generation that are attached to their phones, computers and fashion.

Andrew had a humble beginning but was soon thrust into the limelight thanks to his designs and a little help from reality television. Starting with mostly sportswear, Andrew’s interest in fashion started at a young age.

“I remember watching this car wash video when I was working for South Florida Gay News,” the 25 year old said. “It was a car wash, if I’m not mistaken. It was definitely eye catching, and let’s just say hot.”

“I’ve been designing since I was a teenager,” Andrew told David Atlanta. “In high school I would sell some stuff I made. I eventually went to fashion school.”

But do the videos show off a designer and his brand or just half-naked porn stars? Andrew says using porn stars, and hot models in general, has allowed his to reach a new audience.

Atlanta resident, Matthew Clark, works at a property tax layer’s office and can remember the first time he saw an Andrew Christian video. The video he saw was, in fact, the first one the designer ever released.

The formal training from fashion school would lead Andrew to create a successful business where he creats “I use the porn models because, well let’s face it, they attractive designs at affordable prices. look good in the underwear,” Andrew said with a laugh.

“I’ve been able to tap into the fan base that almost all “I use great materials and I like to keep my clothes at porn stars have. It’s brought my product into the homes a mid range so everyone can afford them,” he said. of new potential consumers.”

“What’s the point of creating clothes when no one can afford to wear them?”

The use of a singular and particular model might leave people feeling alienated or not worthy of wearing the After his appearance on Bravo’s The Fashion Show, underwear. Clark agrees with statement.

Andrew became a household name. Andrew showed his taste and superior talent with his winning designs and what some call his “movie star good looks.” The Fashion Show was just his first taste of television fame.

After his stint with Bravo, Andrew would appear on seasons three and four of The Janice Dickinson Modeling Agency. That’s when his signature designs started to take off.

“I had just started my underwear line when I was working with Janice’s show,” Andrew said. “She’s been really great and supportive to me.”

That exposure and support has led to one of the most sophisticated and popular lines of men’s underwear from any designer. His best sellers for the last seven years are his line of “technically advanced” custom woven men’s underwear. With street, sport, fashion and basic-themed designs Andrew has produced low-cut, super low-cut and boxer brief underwear designs. Each style is intricately designed using specialized dye treatments, printed graphics and innovative materials such as bamboo fiber, sports mesh, and patented moisture wicking cotton blends. In fact, his Almost Naked design is made with 93 percent bamboo fiber.

The comfort and unique designs have garnered the

photo: Gregory Frye Photography @DavidAtlantaGA // 45

“I like the fact that all his clothes just look good. You know he uses good material, but the fit isn’t always right for every body type,” Clark said. “Just because it comes in small and x-large doesn’t mean they’ll fit small and x-large men.”

In the last year, Andrew has started to pull away from conventional print advertising to embrace the digital age.

His daily email blasts to customers and Facebook fans keeps people in the loop on his designs, sales and videos.

He created a Tumblr page to show off the photos of his models that would get him banned from Facebook. The gratuitous nudity isn’t just of his models though. Andrew encourages his fans to send in their best pictures in the designer’s garments, soft or erect.

“I started getting so many submissions from fans that I thought this would be a great medium to show off people in my stuff,” Andrew said. “Facebook is so censored that we can’t post a lot there.”

Andrew likes what he’s going to get his clothes and his name out there. If it’s not broken, don’t fix it.

“To reach the most people, Tumblr and the videos are the platform for that,” he said. “We don’t shoot sex. The videos are purely for entertainment. Sex sells.”

Andrew’s intentions going forward are to continue using the videos and the other forms of social media interaction that has, so far, proven successful and profitable.

He plans on expanding his clothing line including his underwear, new sportswear and accessories. As far as his models go, he believes the offer a bit of encouragement for people.

“It’s really great when I meet people and they tell me how underwear has changed their lives,” Andrew said. “It makes them more confident. They strive to look like the models. It’s awesome when clothes can promote a better life for people.”

Showing off models and fans has to be perfect for business, right? Who doesn’t like seeing half naked men with rippling abs and a hard cock?

Elizabeth Duffield, a 19 year old foreign affairs student at the University of Virginia, can appreciate what she called the “shock value” of the videos and Tumblr, but feels the main thing is missing – the fashion.

“Using this idea of self image is so typical of fashion in America,” Duffield said. “It’s just another example of why our society needs to be refreshed.”

America should be used to seeing what advertisers think in the perfect body type for their clothes. Abercrombie and Fitch CEO Mike Jeffries recently made comments that only “cool and beautiful” people are supposed to be wearing his clothes. The social backlash has A&F announcing plummeting sales and their leader back peddling to try and save face for himself and his company.

“There’s a shift now in fashion, if you ask me,” Duffield said. “Now men are led to believe that they have to look a certain way. Seeing things like [those videos and pictures] is just hitting on the peril of creating an expectation that the only acceptable man is one with a six pack.”

46 // davidatlanta.com

photo: andrewchristianimages.com

photo: Erica Dorsey @DavidAtlantaGA // 47

The world called them backup.

We called them stars.

THE UNSUNG STORIES OF MERRY CLAYTON & DARLENE LOVE by chris azzopardi

52 // davidatlanta.com

W

hen Merry Clayton recalls the song most dear to her, “After All This Time” – one of many Carole Kingwritten tunes on Clayton’s self-titled 1971 solo album – she starts to recite the words: “Oooh, I get a feeling every night when you come home that life is sweet, yeaaaah, baby.”

But then, she can’t help herself. Clayton breaks out the song full force, her voice swooping into a belt. It’s in this moment of impromptu vocal prowess you wonder why Clayton never found the solo success she so deserves. That mystery is documented in 20 Feet from Stardom, a film that finally puts background singers – including the renowned Darlene Love – center stage. And life from there, well, it really is sweet.

When you first saw the documentary, and all that footage they’d compiled, what was going through your mind?

Merry Clayton: That film…it took me to another place. Let me say it this way: It took my breath away. I could hardly breathe. I made it through the whole film until they showed myself and my late husband and my band doing “Southern Man,” and then I lost it. I mean, totally lost it. I was crying. It just got to my heart.

Darlene Love: I didn’t even know it was gonna touch me, but I was very emotional watching it. A lot of my friends who know me personally, and family who’ve seen it, actually cried during the movie. There were friends who didn’t even know I went through that (career) struggle, because I wasn’t the type of person to ask for help. They were really surprised that I had gone through that and had never said a thing about it.

photos courtesy of Radius-TWC @DavidAtlantaGA // 53

Darlene, when this project first came to you, what were your initial thoughts?

DL: I was the first person involved in it.

(Producer) Gil Friesen went to Lou Alder, who is a very old friend of mine, and Dick Donner, who is the director of the Lethal Weapon movies, and he said, “I have this idea to do a story on background singers, but I don’t know where to start.”

They told him, “Well, if you’re gonna do a story on background singers, you’re gonna have to get in touch with Darlene Love first.” And that’s what he did, because I’ve been doing background singing full time since 1958.

Was this a trip down memory lane for you?

DL: It was. They filmed it off and on for two years, so the director (Morgan Neville) had to do some digging, because there is no information on background singers … unless you talk to background singers! What he did find, like The Blossoms (the vocal trio led by Love) singing with Tom Jones back in 1971, I was like, “Wow, how did they find that? We have never seen that.”

MC: It was really something. It took me back to the years out on the road with my husband and my band. I didn’t have to do anything; my job was to just do my craft, and he took care of the band. He had his career. He had done eight or nine albums. So he wanted me to have a great career – and he worked very closely with me to see that that happened. But they only wanted one queen, and it was Aretha at that time. And there was only one Diana Ross. That left me as the Merry Clayton who was basically almost unsung.

It just wasn’t your time. But now is your time.

MC: I really believe that. And listen to me, I am soooo ready for it. I’m in good health. I’m in good spirits. I look fabulous, honey. And I got it going on.

Did you ever think of yourself as an underdog?

DL: Oh, no, I never did. I never felt that way, because once we got so big at doing background singing, people waited on us.

People were just as excited about us being on their records as we were excited about doing them. I don’t think that anyone who was doing background ever felt bad about what they were doing.

MC: No, I don’t think I’m an underdog. I think I’m an after-dog. I think I’ve been totally recognized, if for nothing else but for the people I’ve performed with. You can’t be more recognized than being recognized for “Gimme Shelter” (Clayton sang on the 1969 track with The Rolling Stones). That’s been all over. By presidents, queens and kings, I’ve been recognized. The thing is, you get recognition, but not the recognition you think you should have.

54 // davidatlanta.com

You gotta know that the gay community always puts our divas in the spotlight, right?

MC: That’s right, baby. And I mean, when you got the gay community under your feet, you really don’t have too much of anything to worry about.

How would you describe your relationship with the gay community all these years?

DL: If it weren’t for them in my audience, I wouldn’t have one. They’ve always supported me over the years. Ninety percent of my audience is white – it’s not black – and gay. So, you know, thank god! They know more about the background singers than anybody. They saw how we looked, they saw how we dressed, they saw how we moved around. They were looking at that too. A lot of people have come up to me, even before the movie, saying, “I saw you when you sang with Dionne Warwick” or “I saw you when you were with Tom Jones” or “I saw you with Elvis,” so they watch that. They don’t just watch the lead singer; they watch the whole thing – the whole performance in front of them.

MC: They’ve always loved me. They always loved me and adored me and have allll-ways supported me! When I needed clothes, when I needed things to wear for shows, I’d call my queens, baby. They’d be like, “Don’t you worry; we got you covered.” The children, they’d be there to see me, protect me. I looooo-ve my gays, baby.

(Laughs) I love the children and the children love me. But it’s always been that in my career. Always.

A diva doesn’t go without her gays.

MC: Ever. Ever! From 5 years old. What I’m saying is, when you start singing, there’s always a wonderful gay friend in your family – not a part of your family, but always a friend your parents know or somebody knows – and they’re always very protective of you. They make sure you have what you need, they make sure you get to where you’re supposed to go on time and they make sure you’re cool. I mean, when I first started singing, please … there were wonderful gays who were like, “Oh, you need a gown for baby sister, for Merry? Let’s make her a couple of dresses, honey.” And I’d look good!

We didn’t come with silver spoons in our mouth, so they would sit down and make me a dress, make sure my shoes matched my dress, that my hair was done and that I looked cute. So yes, I love my gays, baby.

What’s your fondest memory of recording “Cornflake Girl” with Tori Amos?

MC: That’s my baby. I haven’t talked to my baby in a long time. I’m gonna have my co-manager find Tori because I haven’t heard from her in quite a while.

But she calls me in the evening: “Merry, what are you doing?” I said, “Hey, who is this?” “Tori.” I said, “Hey mama, what’s going on?” She says, “I need you to come and sing on this song with me.” I said, “OK now, you

gotta pay me the lunch money.” So we did it and had a great evening. Tori was with me when I did the song for Dirty Dancing, “Yes.” Her ma and dad were in town and she called me and she said, “Well, what are you doing?”

I said, “I’m going to the studio, girl; I got this thing for something they’re doing called ‘Dirty’…something.” She says, “I want you to meet ma and dad.” So they came to the studio where I was and hung out while I did “Yes.” We had a wonderful time.

Darlene, in the movie you talk about cleaning houses to make ends meet when singing wasn’t cutting it. Tell me about the worst house you had to clean.

DL: (Laughs) My own! To this day, I always say, “Lord, please let me make enough money for somebody to clean my house.” And so far, it’s been working out.

After doing this film, do you feel like the star you always wanted to be?

MC: I feel that I am absolutely the diva that I’ve always wanted to be. Not necessarily the diva, but just the woman who has paid dues and had fun in the process and has had, basically, a wonderful life. I really feel blessed to have been a part of this. Honestly, it feels like I’m in a dream and I’m waiting for someone to pinch me and say, “Girrrl-friend, wake up. Come out of it, suga.” It really is just a phenomenal dream, and I hope to stay in it until I close my eyes for the last time.

DL: Between getting inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and this, this kind of seals it because now, with this movie, my career will go on and on and on. This movie is doing for us what superstars’ records do for them. It has given us a voice. Now we have a voice. @DavidAtlantaGA // 55

Cocktail Chatter THE CAIPIRINHA B Y E D S I K O V “Portuguese is easy,” Chipper explained. “All you do is speak Spanish through your nose.”

Hilarity ensued. “That’s so bogus,” Craig managed to get out through heaves of laughter. The other boys – Dan, Paolo and me – were too convulsed to say anything.

Cachaça is very, very strong. Drinking it neat would be asking for trouble – big-time trouble. It really must be mixed with something else to be palatable. Thus the Brazilian national cocktail, the Caipirinha. (It’s pronounced KYE-pa-REEN-ya.)

To make a round of great Caipirinhas, you need a lot of very juicy limes. This can be a problem in most of the United States and Canada, because in all but the warmest locations, limes are shipped to stores on the basis of their appearance, not their taste. How many times have you grabbed what looks like a perfectly ripe lime and sliced it “I happen to know a bit of Portuguese,” Paolo announced, open only to find desiccated, lifeless pulp? For this reason, “and that’s not the way you say ‘good day’ in Portuguese. I recommend that you augment your fresh limes with It’s ‘bom dia.’” bottled lime juice. You’ll get whatever fresh flavor your limes will yield – and the rind is actually full of flavor and “That’s what I said!” Chipper protested to no success. aroma – but you won’t be dependent on the probably low “Comeme!” he snarled, once again pinching his nostrils quality of the fruit inside. and sending the rest of us into spastic fits of amusement.

Another peculiarity of the Caipirinha is the fact that it’s better We were enjoying this especially inane discussion on when the sugar you add doesn’t dissolve entirely, thereby the Saturday evening of a lovely spring weekend at Fire giving the cocktail a slight crunch. Usually I recommend Island Pines; we’d all gotten together to open the beach using superfine sugar when mixing drinks. (And to really milk house and launch another glorious season of hot the experience for all it’s worth, you have to say “superfine” sand, hot men, and – as the way the guy says “Super Fly” in the theme song from far as Chipper was that great blaxploitation film from 1972.) But superfine sugar concerned – hot dissolves completely, and you don’t want that in your classic air. The particu- Caipirinha. There should be a granular quality in each sip, if lar topic sugfor no other reason than to remind you that you’re drinking gested itself sugar can liquor. Here’s the classic Caipirinha recipe, modibecause I’d fied to increase the lime juice by way of a bottle: stopped at the amazingly wellstocked Pines Liquor Store and 1 lime picked up a bottle 1 ½ tsp. sugar 1 tsp. lime juice of cachaça, the 3 Tbsp. cachaça Brazilian firewater distilled from Slice the lime into quarters, and place the quarters pulp sugar cane. In Rio side up in a wide glass. Add the sugar and lime juice, the they practically give mash the lime quarters down with a pestle or other similar it away, it’s so cheap.

The Pines Liquor Store muddler. Add the cachaça and crushed ice and stir. Do not charged a bit more, but it remove the lime pieces from the drink; this cocktail should have a rustic quality. was worth it.

“No, really!” Chipper insisted, and he proceeded to demonstrate: “¡Buenos dias!” he cried while holding his nostrils shut. It was certainly adenoidal, but Portuguese it wasn’t.

The Caipirinha

56 // davidatlanta.com

theScene 1

10th & Piedmont 991 Piedmont Ave. NE

14 Cowtippers

27 Jungle

40 The Model T

2

Amsterdam 502 Amsterdam Ave. NE

15 Daiquiri Factory

28 Las Margaritas

41 Tripps

3

Atlanta Eagle 306 Ponce De Leon Ave. NE

16 Einstein's

29 Manifest 4 U

42 Urban Body Fitness

4

BJ Roosters 2043 Cheshire Bridge Rd.

17 F.R.O.G.S

30 Mixx

43 Woof's

5

Blake's 227 10th St. NE

18 Felix's

31 Oscar's

44 XS Ultra Lounge

6

Bliss 2284 Cheshire Bridge Rd.

19 Flex Spa

32 Opus 1

7

Boy Next Door 1447 Piedmont Ave. NE

20 Friends

33 Roxx

8

Brushstrokes 1510 Piedmont Ave. NE

21 Gatsby's

34 Sam's Hair Salon

Le Buzz 585 Franklin Rd. SE Marietta, GA

9

Bubbles Salon 1579 Monroe Dr. NE

22 Gilbert's

35 Southern Nights

Mary's 1287 Glenwood Ave. SE

10 Bulldogs

23 Gravity Fitness

36 Ten Atlanta

My Sister's Room 1271 Glenwood Ave. SE

11 Burkhart's

24 Heretic

37 The Den

Club Rush 2715 Buford Hwy. NE

12 Capulets

25 Hobnob

38 The Fifth Ivory

Sister Louisa’s Church 466 Edgewood Ave. SE

13 Club Eros

26 Joe's on Juniper

39 The Hideaway

Swinging Richard's 1400 Northside Dr. 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

2115 Faulkner Rd. NE

699 Ponce De Leon Ave. NE

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

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

1824 Cheshire Bridge Rd. 2000 Cheshire Bridge Rd. 2205 Cheshire Bridge Rd.

2201 Faulkner Rd. NE 2069 Cheshire Bridge Rd. 1551 Piedmont Ave. NE 1049 Juniper Str. NE

990 Piedmont Ave. Ne 2135 Liddell Dr. NE 794 Juniper Str. NE 1544 Piedmont Ave. NE

Bar/Cocktails

Retail

Dining

Billiards/Darts

Dancing

Dancers

Non-Smoking

Leather

Hair/Beauty

Fitness

Drag

Baths/Spa

60 // davidatlanta.com

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@DavidAtlantaGA // 61

Bartab

got an upcoming event? calendar@davidatlanta.com

MONDAY

Brooks and Phoenix 10pm model t Party with Elvis - 9 pm BLAKE’S Game Night - Trivia/Family Feud oscar’s Ruby Redd’s After Party - 10 pm 11pm swinging richards 2-4-1 VIP Room BURKHART’S Blue Monday Karaoke w/ ten atlanta Drag-a-maki w/ Kitty Angelica D’Paige 11:30pm LeClaw 8:30pm COCKPIT Big Red Cup All Day, specials tripp’s Free Taco Bar 5pm EAGLE Music Videos with Scotty xcess ultra lounge Raquell Lord’s FELIX’S Free Pool Talent Show 10:30pm, Sophia Mcintosh & FRIENDS Manic Mondays DJ opens - 2 pm Fab 5 +1 11:30pm, 18+ HERETIC Jukebox drag with Knomie Moore woof’s Food Special, Trivia 8pm HIDEAWAY $2.50 Domestic Beer JUNGLE Stars of the Century Show 11pm MODEL T Monday Night Madness Free blake’s Texas Hold’Em Poker 7pm, “Guys Pool - 10pm - 2am OSCAR’S Service Industry Night with Eric & Dolls” with Shawnna Brooks. 11pm BURKHART’S Twisted Thursday w/ swinging richards Hip-Hop Night, Phoenix 11:30pm Sponsored by Hennessy 8:30pm cockpit Dirty Boy Bingo w/ Ruby Redd ten atlanta Poker Night TRIPP’S Monday Nite Madness w/ Tana 9pm eagle Balls Deep Karaoke w/ Mikey felix’s Karaoke w/ Brett & Tyler 10pm WOOF’S Texas Hold ‘Em Poker 8pm friends Where Girls Who Like Girls Meet Girls with Regina Simms 8-closing Gilbert’s Wine tasting 6-10pm BLAKE’S POP! Karaoke with Sasie Monroe heretic 3 Legged Cowboy Night 9pm and Suzanne Gleeson 11pm hideaway Service Industry Night BURKHART’S Trivia Tuesday Karaoke w/ jungle Members Only with Evah Angelica D’Paige 11:30pm Destruction 10pm club rush “Tipsy Tuesday” 18 & up mIXX Gentlemen Cocktails with Aaron & Open until 4am Matt at 6pm COCKPIT 80s Party 9pm, specials 5-8pm model t Party Time with Michael - 9 pm EAGLE Tuesdays w/ Tony oscar’s Twisted Thursday with Eric FELIX’S Smirnoff Martini Night swinging richards 2-4-1 VIP & Entry FRIENDS Let’s Make A Deal with Ken 6 pm xcess ultra lounge Turnt Up Thursday Gilbert’s Industry Night (complementary woof’s Food Special, Country Music 7pm pizza after 10pm) HERETIC 2-Step Tuesday, dance till 11pm HIDEAWAY Trivia with Wil 9 pm 10th & piedmont Live DJ 10 PM JUNGLE Ruby’s Tuesdays 8 pm blake’s 5-9pm TGIF, Charlie’s Angels w/ MIXX Piano with David Reeb at 8pm Charlie Brown 11pm MODEL T Wii Tuesday Afternoons 2pm BURKHART’S Fab Five w/ Angelica 9pm $2.50 beer / $3.0 well vodka OSCAR’S Show Tune Tuesday with Chad- D’Paige 11:30pm club rush “Got Leche” Free entry until 8 pm 11pm 18 & up - Open until 4am SWINGING RICHARDS 1/2 Price cover cockpit DJ Diablo Rojo, guest VJ/DJ’s WOOF’S Industry Day Free Wii 5pm eagle DJ Dance Party friends Happy Time Friday Kelly & Ken 6 pm heretic FUR Friday BLAKE’S 5-9pm Doug’s party pop hits, hideaway Kick Back Fridays!

Charlie Harding’s Hard Body Party 11 pm jungle Dinner and a Movie 7 pm; BURKHART’S Humpday Karaoke w/ The Other Show with Edie Cheezburger Darlene Majewski 11:30pm 9:30pm; Jungle POP 11pm COCKPIT Balls Deep Karaoke 10pm mixx Ron’s End of the Week Party 4pm | EAGLE Underwear Night with Tony Grown & Sexy Dance 10 pm Friends Hump Night with Regina Simms model t Friday Bagels - 10 am | Texas Gilbert’s Karaoke 10pm-2am Holdem Poker 8 pm heretic Pig Dance Black Out Party DJ oscar’s Music Video Night Stan Jackson 10pm-3am NO COVER swinging richards T-Shirt Review,$10 hideaway 1/2 Price Beer ten atlanta Music by George Greenlee jungle Dragamaniacs with Nicole Paige tripp’s Afternoon Delights 4pm

THURSDAY

TUESDAY

FRIDAY

WEDNESDAY

62 // davidatlanta.com

woof’s Atlanta’s Best Social Night 6pm

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 The Q 9 pm; 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 DJ Christopher Kind 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 Open @ 2pm; Dinner @ 4pm while it lasts 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

@DavidAtlantaGA // 63

theRundown 50 Years of Bond

Nightly • 7:30 p.m. • Plaza Theatre (1049 Ponce De Leon Ave.)

Datebook

The Plaza Theatre celebrates James Bond’s 50 years as a film franchise with nightly showings. This week’s films run through the Pierce Brosnan and Daniel Craig eras of Bond.

For more information, visit plazaatlanta.com.

Big Gay Game Show

Wednesday, July 17 • 7:30 p.m. • Jungle (2115 Faulkner Rd. NE)

Ian Aber, Chandler Bearden and Lips Down on Dixie are just some of the guests at this month’s Big Gay Game Show, where all proceeds go to benefit Lost-n-Found Youth.

For more information, visit lost-n-found.org.

Headwaters: Didja Hear

Wednesday, July 17 • 8 p.m. • Sautee Nacoochee Center (283 Highway 255 N, Sautee Nacoochee) Among the stories in this production written and performed by the community of Sautee Nacoochee are some from students at the local high school who responded to being bullied by forming a Gay-Straight Alliance. For more information, visit snca.org.

Cliterati Open No-Mic Thursday, July 18 • 7:30 p.m. • Charis (1189 Euclid Ave.)

The spoken word team of Karen G and Theresa Davis host this open mic and reading series, with special guest Rushelle Frazier. For more information, visit charisbooksandmore. com.

Micky Friedmann

Friday, July 19 • 9 p.m. • Heretic (2069 Cheshire Bridge Rd.)

Kick off Joining Hearts 26 with Heretic as they bring DJ Micky Friedmann back to Atlanta. A portion of the door’s proceeds go to Joining Hearts. For more information, visit hereticatlanta.com.

Rosabel

Saturday, July 20 • 9 p.m. • Jungle (2115 Faulkner Rd. NE) Legendary DJs Ralphie Rosario and Abel join forces as Rosabel, and they’re playing Jungle after the Joining Hearts pool party. For more information, visit jungleatl.com.

Weekend Wind-Down Sunday, July 21 • 1–5 p.m. • Century Skyline Apartments (396 Piedmont Ave. NE)

Atlanta Cotillion is throwing a Weekend Wind Down party. Lounge around a pool, receive a commemorative Cirque de Nuit t-shirts, listen to music from a DJ and enjoy drinks from Svedka Vodka, all for a $20 donation. For more information, visit atlantacotillion.com.

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Ugly Simple Truths Photographer Philip Bonneau may be best known for his colorful Heroes + Villains series, but on July 19, he unveils a much darker set of photos with Ugly Simple Truths. According to the artist, Ugly Simple Truths “is a photographic exploration of our ‘shadow self’ and the things we do not talk about. These things are the things that have hurt us, defined us, made us strong and the things that never leave the back of your mind. This show is emotionally intense as my models strip down to their most vulnerable and confront their demons of the past head on. Their stories are laid bare as we discuss mental struggle, addictions, relationships, loss and the internal battles of our mind through the use of black light photography.” July 19, 6–10 p.m., Suite Spot (1465 Chattahoochee Ave, Suite 450)

IN THEATRES THIS WEEK Red 2: It’s Helen Mirren in full-tilt bad-ass mode. That’s all you need to know.

R.I.P.D.: A.K.A. the film with Ryan Reynolds as a supernatural cop.

Turbo: A.K.A. the film with Ryan Reynolds as a supercharged snail.

The Conjuring: Yet another horror film “based on a true story.”

Girl Most Likely: Kristen Wiig gets it on with Darren Criss (Blaine from Glee).

Fruitvale Station: Michael B. Jordan’s an early Oscar contender for his role here.

Crystal Fairy: Michael Cera gets high in Chile.

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Comics

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Baton Bob, “Twirling his baton in public”…gulp!

A

few weeks ago, I posted a Facebook status stating that I had just finished interviewing the brilliant man behind Baton Bob, the character we all love, but the very next day all hell broke loose.

your photo while in the middle of your routine.

The avalanche of criticism, however, came flying when you described her as a “white lesbian bitch”. I now must ask you the same question they asked Paula Dean, are you racist?

Okay, so what happened was…by now, if you live in the ATL, you must know that Atlanta’s most popular and most colorful street performer, Baton Bob (also known as The Ambassador of Mirth) was arrested just last month on the same day everybody was celebrating the Supreme Court’s recent decision to destroy part of DOMA. Yes ma’am, pretty much all of us were singing, “Aha ha ha, aho ho ho, ding dong that wicked bitch (DOMA) is dead!”

Bob: No! Double no! Capital “N” No! Look, all of us have expressed our frustrations on fb before and that was just an assessment. What I mean is, she is white, she is a lesbian, and at that moment, she was being a bitch to me. It had nothing whatsoever to do with racism. She could have been a black lady, or a Chinese lesbian, I would have still described them. People just took that part and ignored the rest. I was upset at the moment and I just started describOf course, this was a perfect day for Bob to march out on ing the incident. the streets signaling the town with his whistle, twirling that She really was famous baton and wearing a wedding dress! Well, if Baton disrespectful Bob was Dorothy, I’m afraid to say that this was also the to me after I day that his yellow brick road led him into that scary dark told her no, but forest where he was attacked…a lot. Not only had he been Brent…I was attacked by the security at Colony Square and the police, not expecting but later by some of his fans on Facebook (this time based the onslaught on his Facebook status …yeah, the angry Facebook status of comments of them all!). and hate I got afterwards.

The latter part happened after I interviewed him the first Never again. It time. So naturally, I went back to him to get answers, was a lesson because now everyone who lives here, or who is on his learned.. I have page, or at least have heard about his arrest (I’m surprised turned the page it wasn’t on CNN), all have one common question on their and moved on. minds…WTF?!?

(More on this Brent: First off, I must admit, I love how as soon next time; to be as you got out of jail, you went right back on continued…) photo: facebook.com/BatonBob the streets to spread your mirth and twirled that baton as if nothing happened…but then a few days later, you really “twirled it” when you left a Brent Star’s Performance Schedule: Facebook status expressing your frustration over Mondays: Cowtippers (Bingo) 8pm this lady who you felt was being very disrespect- July 18: The Laughing Skull Comedy Club, 10:30pm for “The Brent Star Variety Show” ful when you told her that she could not take @DavidAtlantaGA // 69

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fairyscopes ARIES (March 20 – April 19): Sudden outbursts

LIBRA (September 23 – October 22): When the

that leave you wondering who you really are reveal hidden depths and secret strengths. When in doubt, open up to some of your more insightful friends. Working too hard can upset the apple cart. Pace yourself to be effective with your colleagues.

going gets tough, the tough get creative. A domestic spat shows serious problems you hadn’t suspected, but the solution is within reach. It’s not easy, but with a small sacrifice on both sides you can fix it together.

TAURUS (April 20 – May 20): Sassy, daring boldness

SCORPIO (October 23 – November 21): Your

is a bit atypical for Taureans, but work whatever such energy you have to get ahead. You may reveal more of yourself than you had intended, but that should work in your favor, too.

wildest, most revolutionary ideas may well be on the right track, but you need to discuss them with an expert who shares your ideals and your commitment. If your partner feels wounded or neglected swallow your pride, apologize, and deal with it!

GEMINI (May 21- June 20): Any long simmering or “politely” neglected domestic problems are sure to boil over.

To head off resentments, open up to your partner first about personal fears and anxieties and see how that feeds the other issues.

SAGITTARIUS (November 22 – December 20): What would your perfect job look like? You will soon have the opportunity to improve your work situation. For now, nurture the ideal. Limiting realities will focus that into constructive steps soon enough.

CANCER (June 21- July 22): It’s too easy to obsess

CAPRICORN (December 21 – January 19): Your

on minutiae. Better to clear out garbage and clutter. Your partner or another good friend will be glad to help you decide what needs to go. Let a sibling get saddled with the family keepsakes.

work and money situation may feel uncertain, but focus your imagination to develop a practical plan. You really can do anything if you calm your mind, relax and stay alert. Your competence and hard work are seen and appreciated.

LEO (July 23 – August 22): Being nice with some

AQUARIUS (January 20 – February 18): Discussing plans with friends will help bring out your genius for community organizing. You need that feedback to rein your ideals into the real world, but once you’ve got that worked out you’re brilliant!

people can be a challenge, but honing your teamwork skills will make it worthwhile. The real trick now is to balance that with the creative impulses that require your very individual initiative.

VIRGO (August 23 – September 22): Enjoying your work is good. Working at enjoyment might miss the point.

Working toward an accomplishment can slide into an obsession. If something that’s supposed to be fun isn’t any more it’s time to step back and think about it.

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PISCES (February 19 – March 19): Having profound personal insights can be liberating. Sharing them with others may not be such a great idea. Choose your confidants carefully! Even if inspiration propels your career, you probably don’t want colleagues, much less bosses, knowing how you were inspired.

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A fall Pride celebration just isn’t right. Pride month is June!

You playing victim to your own self-made drama is priceless. Go get help. We are already full of crazy here.

Please play something we can dance to! So sick of hearing a great song only to be fooled by a small snip of the original within some lame mix.

If you’ve got it, flaunt it. If you don’t…then please, don’t.

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I’m not sure the boycott on Ender’s Game is necessary.

It’ll probably bomb anyway.

What’s a nice way of saying “I want to fuck you senseless”?

I don’t understand guys who don’t sleep naked.

I’ve only been in Atlanta for two years, but can someone explain to me why a man with an obnoxious whistle and a temper problem that likes to step out into traffic is an “Atlanta Gay Icon”?

Such a weird coincidence that whenever my boyfriend goes to the bar, I end up eating a full-sized Snickers.

You say the new guy you just met “enlightened you.”

Psh. Then why are you still acting like the self-centered jerk I met a year ago? *This page reflects the bitchiness of the community not David Atlanta or its publisher (although we’re bitchy too!)