Issue 676 Dec 28 – Jan 3 | 2012 betches
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Bottom LIne
New Years Resolutions
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by Joseph Brownell
t’s that time of year again. New Year’s Resolutions. Sometimes I wonder why even bother because they’re always the same and always broken by February 1st, but this year I’ve pinpointed something I really need to work on. I’ve never been patient and this deficiency pervades all aspects of my life. I get upset when I have to tell my boyfriend something I’ve sworn I’ve told him at least once a day for the past week. Sometimes instead of trying to understand someone’s confusion, I’ll jump to the conclusion that they’re just inanely stupid and lose my patience with them, but
most of all I lose interest in projects when I don’t see immediate results. Maybe it’s partly my generation because we tend to seek immediate gratification
“I’ve never tried to give up giving up” rather than delay it for a greater reward, but whenever I start something if I don’t see any progress or results within the first couple weeks I give up. As I get older I wonder where those projects would be today if I hadn’t given up on them. Maybe exactly where they are now, in the graveyard of my consciousness but maybe not. That screenplay idea could be on CMT right now. That short story could’ve won the contest. But one thing is for sure - giving up on them didn’t do any good. So this year as I sit down to work on my list of resolutions, I’m going to ignore the usual suspects. I’ve worked on the whole give up smoking thing for years (even if it is only when I drink), and I’ve tried the whole give up unhealthy foods but I’ve never tried to give up giving up. So this year when I feel discouraged I’m going to pull out this article and remind myself that if I do I’ll just be writing this same sad piece next year.
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WTF!?!? Tidbits Britney Spears and her long-time boyfriend Jason Trawick
are engaged. One commentator had this to say about the four-carat Neil Lane diamond ring: “The ring is so damn classy!” Indeed.
In Touch Weekly claims they got a hold of Suri Cruise’s Christmas list,
which totals more than $130,000, and includes a pony, diamond earrings, and “a gown that will make her look like a fairy princess.” Occupy Wall Street should really be considering relocating the protest to Suri’s playhouse.
Lindsay Lohan’s Playboy spread is
flying off the shelves! So says TMZ. The interesting thing is that every straight guy I talk to has absolutely no interest in her weird areolas and tiny nipples, but I know a flock of homos who sashayed to buy the issue the day it came out.
On The View, Whoopi Goldberg allegedly farted. A spokesperson for the show denies it and says Whoopi was just making a joke, but for the sake of the dozens of ‘Whoopi made a whoopee’ jokes, we’ll pretend it happened. Vanessa Bryant, wife of Kobe Bryant,
is divorcing him after 10 and a half years of marriage. Vanessa did not sign a prenup and under California law, after 10 years of marriage, she’s entitled to half of everything. Kobe has a net worth of $200 million. Gold diggers everywhere, bow down!
Courtney Love is being kicked out of the $8
million townhouse in New York City after causing more than $100,000 in damage. The owner of the townhouse says Courtney “wallpapered and painted a large portion of the property without my consent.” She should just be glad the walls weren’t covered in blood, vomit, and cigarette burns.
Page Six says that as a parting gift to his hookups, Derek Jeter sends a car to pick them up, complete with a gift basket filled with his own memorabilia. I know most people think this sounds really douchey, but at least you get something out of your one-night stand. Most of us leave a trick’s house with nothing more than a hangover and the need to be washed of our shame. by Lucas Witherspoon
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Creep of the Week
Rick Perry
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by D’Anne Witkowski
ou don’t have to be a political scientist to recognize that Texas Governor Rick Perry is an ignorant prick. But I’ve got to hand it to him: he knows how to get people talking. Granted, they’re talking about what an ignorant prick he is, but still. So congratulations, Mr. Perry, for having what is apparently the most “disliked” video in YouTube history. With over 4,700,000 views, his anti-gay campaign ad, creatively titled “Strong,” has over 652,300 “dislikes” compared to only a little over 20,460 “likes.” The ad begins with Perry, clad in a tan jacket, navy blue button down shirt, black jeans, and giant belt buckle, sauntering up a small hill covered in impossibly green grass, a babbling brook in the background. He’s walking in this kind of sideways, awkward way so that he can traverse and manly landscape while still facing the camera. In other words, he isn’t watching where he’s going. It’s an apt metaphor and actually makes a lot of sense.
Last time I checked… the Don’t Ask Don’t Tell repeal isn’t preventing any hall-decking or even gay apparel. What doesn’t make sense are the words that come out of his mouth. “I’m not ashamed to admit that I’m a Christian,” he begins, as if that’s something people in America are reluctant to disclose. Now, if he’d said, “I’m not ashamed to admit that I’m a vegetarian,” or “I’m not ashamed to admit that I have erectile dysfunction,” I think we’d all be like, “Dude, that took some courage.” But admitting you’re Christian in America? That’s like admitting that you watch TV or that you eat too much processed food. 18 | davidatlanta
After his shocking admission he continues, “[B] ut you don’t need to be in the pew every Sunday to know there’s something wrong in this country when gays can serve openly in the military but our kids can’t openly celebrate Christmas or pray in school.” Yes, gays can serve openly in the military now. Glad to know Perry got that memo. Though Perry is apparently confused and thinks that what gays are in the military to do is to wage the so-called War on Christmas. This is, of course, a pretend war. No one is fighting against Christmas. It’s just a scheme cooked up by right-wing Christians who enjoy themselves a good ol’ persecution complex. But Perry’s making it sound like gays are slapping the Christmas out of the mouths of children nationwide. Last time I checked, Christmas is pretty openly celebrated in this country by kids and adults. The Don’t Ask Don’t Tell repeal isn’t preventing any hall-decking or even gay apparel. “As President, I’ll end Obama’s war on religion,” Perry continues. “And I’ll fight against liberal attacks on our religious heritage.” Like the war on Christmas, the war on religion in America also doesn’t exist. And Lord knows Obama isn’t waging one. Of course, Perry wants viewers to associate Obama with radical Muslims hell bent on destroying America. “Liberal attacks on our religious heritage” is code for “separation of church and state.” So basically Perry and so-called Christians like them want to dismantle a principle that actually helps to protect their religious freedoms. But that’s the thing. The “freedom” thing. These folks won’t be happy until Christians are afforded special rights and are the only truly free Americans left. As George Michael says, “You gotta have faith,” and as Rick Perry says, “Faith made America strong. It can make her strong again.” In other words, gays have weakened America and have stolen Christmas. But even more surprisingly, people are still talking about Rick Perry at all.
Mary J. Blige Shows the Gays Some
Real Love
Queen of Hip-Hop Soul talks sequel to landmark album, homophobia and strip clubs
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by Chris Azzopardi ou could say this is Mary J. Blige’s second life.
Her first, candidly chronicled on her confessions-of-a-wreck album My Life, was an early glimpse into one of the biggest singing superstars in the world, who not only went public with her pain but eventually overcame it. My Life II... The Journey Continues (Act 1) is the Queen of Hip-Hop Soul 17 years later, after releasing nine other studio albums, taking home just as many Grammys and becoming, as she now calls herself, “the living proof.” That’s also the title of a song on her latest release, originally recorded for The Help, that nabbed her a Golden Globe nomination this year. In a recent chat, Blige let us in on her Life, how she became aware of her gay following and – when asked about pal P. Diddy’s “faggot” controversy – why she thinks “people should be careful with their words.”
Your middle initial isn’t visible on the album cover. Is there significance to that? Does that symbolize a new era in Mary J. Blige’s life? Nah. Just didn’t have any space for it! (Laughs) I’m in the middle of the picture and the J is in the middle of the thing, so it’s like, where we gonna put it? But no, I’m not ever dropping the J. That’s my name.
The hair is the problem, then. Yeah, exactly! That’s what happened. (Laughs)
One of the biggest reasons you turned your life around from My Life to My Life II was because you wanted to set a positive 20 | davidatlanta
example for fans who look up to you. A lot of them are gay. When in your career did you know so many gay fans were leaning on you as a source of inspiration? Wow, it was a gradual thing that I started to see a lot on Mary and No More Drama. I had no idea and it gradually started happening. I did something at some club – it was a gay club – and it was just crazy. That’s when I really knew that I had a gay following. I love it. I just love my brothers and I love my sisters. I love them all. We’re all in this together. And I have gay friends. It’s a beautiful thing to be able to heal together the way we’ve been healing over the years.
The new album features “Need Someone,” a track written and originally recorded by Matt Morris. And he’s gay. Oh, I didn’t know that! See, a lot of things I don’t know. (Laughs) That’s why I said it’s a gradual thing. I’m just finding out. The song is friggin’ amazing.
What about that song drove you to record it? Jimmy lovine brought the song to me, and when he played the song my bones were chilled and my hair on the back of my neck was standing up. It was so haunting because of the deepest part about that record: Not only do we need someone to love us – but why and who that is. I think we’ve all grown to know that that person is us. We need to love ourselves before anyone else can love us, and that’s the message I got from it immediately. I was like, “Wow, I could see myself singing this to my younger self.” Jimmy was like, “I want you to do this song” – and he didn’t need to say any more.
photos by Klinko & Indrani
Seems like a track that you could’ve used during the original My Life era. You know, I wish I had the strength to do that song then but I didn’t, so I had to give the world the album in the condition that I was in. Somebody asked me a question while I was doing a radio interview: “If My Life was to meet up with My Life II on the street somewhere, what do you think they would do?” I said, “They would give each other a hug and say, ‘Thank you for saving my life.’” My Life, the first one, would say to My Life II, “Thank you for having the strength to pull us through this.”
Other artists on the music scene around the time you launched your career in the early ’90s burned out; you’re still going strong two decades later. What’s the key to your longevity? First, I never denied the fact that God is the reason responsible for every single thing. I remember praying and asking for a “why” to stay alive, and I know that if there wasn’t praying and making God first in my life, I wouldn’t have the fans that I have. And if it weren’t for the fans and the love that they have for my life, period, and not just my career – the fans that really respect my walk and everything I’ve done – there would be no My Life II, or III or IV. There would be no No More Drama, no albums. So also the fact that my fans really mean a lot to me – because when I spoke out on the My Life album, they responded and they saved my life – and responded to that album and let me know I wasn’t the only one suffering in the things I was suffering in.
Obviously you’re a very spiritual person; you regularly quote proverbs on your Twitter. Because of your faith and growing up in a religious household, was it ever a conflict for you to be as accepting as you are of gay people? I’m not a religious person. Religion is religion and I don’t need a deep relationship with God to have
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a religion. That’s not why I believe Christ died. I believe he died to give us a deep relationship with God, and in having a deep relationship and walk with God, there is no judgment. We cannot judge or think we’re better than anybody. I have nothing but love for everyone in the universe. I believe we can all teach each other something, and I believe we can all grow and learn from one another. I’m a spirit, so I need spiritual assistance – that means I need to pray, I need to read The Word, I need to share The Word with people. That’s what it’s for. It’s not for me to be like, “You’re gonna burn in hell.” That’s not what I believe God wants me to testify about. The fact that I’ve been through so much, and my trials and tribulations are out in the open, is to heal other people. And that I’ve come through it isn’t to say I’m better; it’s to say we all can do it.
As someone who’s said she won’t tolerate homophobia, what did you make of friend/ collaborator P. Diddy’s recent lash out at a club-goer, whom he called a “faggot”? I can’t make the judgment call one way or the other on what Puff was going through that day. All I can say is he apologized, and I know it’s a harsh word but I have to speak for Mary J. Blige. We have to all be careful with what our thoughts are so they don’t become our words, and that’s what prayer and being spiritually grounded (are for) – because if you’re spiritually grounded, you put yourself in other people’s shoes. I gotta speak for Mary, though. I can’t really speak for Puff. As far as I’m concerned, I think people should be careful with their words. You gotta think before you jump out there.
Especially with how much words hurt and all the bullying we’re hearing more about lately. Yeah, that’s not cool. That’s horrible. It’s killing people, because you don’t understand what
Of course he’s lovable: He’s gay. Yeah, and some of my best friends are. Like Elton John is super down-to-earth and he’s not into all that fluff. He is what he is and he’s like, “Look, man, you are my friend and I’m your friend.” I love him.
Did you hit up strip clubs for research?
they’re going through or what their life may be. That’s not fair.
You can relate, I’m sure. You weren’t understood by a lot of people early in your career. Totally, 100 percent. And I’m still misunderstood by a lot of people. But the one thing that I do know about me that’s real is that I have love and respect for mankind, period.
Tell me about working on the upcoming Rock of Ages film, due out in the summer. I had a good time! It was a lot of fun going to work when we were shooting Rock of Ages_because my role as Justice is to be a strip club owner. She’s a lot of fun but she’s strong, and we sang some of the really good classic songs from the ’80s like “Any Way You Want It” and “Here I Go Again.” It was just fun, man. The little part that I did with Tom Cruise? Amazing! Julianne Hough and I became really good friends because she’s a sweetheart, and I love (director) Adam Shankman to death. Adam knew exactly what he wanted. He told us what he wanted and he just made me feel like I was already a seasoned movie star. He was like, “Just do what you do.” He’s so down-to-earth.
I sure did, and I had fun doing it! (Laughs) I went to one in New York called Sin City. It ended up being fun because all of my fans were in there. I went with all the guys and they were going to have fun and I’m going because I’m doing, like, homework. I got a chance to see what everything is and do some method acting.
You recently did VHI Divas. Why is it that divas are always getting pitted against each other like it’s a competition? They make it a competition because they make it sound like it is. But the bottom line: We get in there, we work together and we’re around each other for a couple of hours. We gotta get along and love and respect each other.
When will you duet with Mariah and make my diva dream come true? Whenever she says the word. I love Mariah! I mean, come on. (Laughs)
You’re the Queen of Hip-Hop Soul – don’t you have her digits? Call her and be like, “Mariah, let’s do it.” (Laughs) I do have her number!
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Deep Inside Hollywood by Romeo San Vicente
Hot new TV pilot trend: lesbian(ish) sitcoms Now that it’s been properly established that both Sue Sylvester and Coach Bieste are man-hungry heterosexuals, where is a comedy-loving lesbian to turn for representation? Well, for starters, there’s Sara Rue, who already plays a lesbian on Rules of Engagement and plans to enter I Now Pronounce You Chuck and Larry territory for a sitcom pilot called Poseurs. The premise: two straight Manhattan women pretend to be lesbians in order to keep a co-op that doesn’t allow roommates. You know how these things happen when you live in a big sophisticated city like New York, right? And the lez-com trend kickstarted by the still-in-development lesbian couple project called I Hate That I Love You just added another contender to the mix with Swordfighting, the latest pilot from gay producers Craig Zadan and Neil Meron. That one’s about two friendly married couples whose relationships turn upside down when the wives fall in love with each other. Nobody’s been cast yet, but at least it’s a novel premise with actual lesbian characters. Sorry Poseurs, but your game is already tired.
Is a major network ready for Sarah Silverman? Did you ever watch The Sarah Silverman Program? That thing was so gay it wound up on Logo after Comedy Central couldn’t afford to produce it anymore. In addition to its rotating cast of guests – God, ghosts and cartoon dinosaurs – it also routinely featured a gay stoner bear couple, a drag queen host of a cookie-themed reality competition show and a lesbian cop that Sarah fell for accidentally in one episode. In other words, not the sort of thing you ever see on Two and a Half Men. So what’s up with NBC giving Silverman the green light for
a new primetime sitcom pilot? It’s happening, but that’s all anyone will say right now beyond the loose premise, which is that it will be based on Silverman’s own life. Just trust that it will shake up the status quo if and when it hits your DVR, and that it will be hilarious. It’s almost as if she’s genetically incapable of anything else.
Tim And Eric’s Billion Dollar Movie will be extremely weird It’s one of the Cartoon Network’s few live-action programs and it’s also, hands down, the most bizarre show on television. It’s called Tim and Eric Awesome Show Great Job! and it defies description. But imagine an American Little Britain with no budget, a debilitating head injury and the most scatological humor in television history and you’ll be halfway there. Among its jarring cable-access-esque qualities are some of the weirdest drag characters ever, most notably star Eric Wareheim’s recurring role as an obese woman involved in a masochistic sexual relationship with her boss, played by Tim Heidecker. Will they appear in next spring’s feature length freakout Tim and Eric’s Billion Dollar Movie? It’s anyone’s guess, but the 2012 release – in which Tim and Eric are given a billion dollars to make a movie, naturally – will feature the talents of Awesome Show regulars John C. Reilly (who once found himself shooting an episode segment in Los Angeles leather bar The Eagle) and Zach Galifianakis (who regularly plays a gay-ish children’s drama coach). In other words there’ll be no shortage of sexual anarchy to unsettle just about anyone not already on their wavelength. Finally, gay weirdoes, the un-romcom you’ve been waiting for. Romeo San Vicente is accustomed to hearing “Great Job!”
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Ruby Redd for President face supersized on the back showcasing her zany upside down frown. She also exercised her power to freeze the girl’s brains every Wednesday with her then weekly show, BRAIN FREEZE. After other successes and crazy stories, she took a break (cough).
H
ell no that Redd ho ain’t running for President, but it’s a cute title for this article. After all, the first time I was even intrigued with Ruby Redd was pretty much 8 years ago when I would see fliers of this red headed JEWISH drag queen plastered all over midtown with a fake campaign that said “Vote Ruby Redd for President”. Back then I didn’t know who she was but still thought it was hilarious and clever. Though she lost to George Bush, that bitch got her own tour bus specially tailored with a giant photo of her
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After a couple years of hibernating, she reemerged stronger than ever. She got her own show again this time called BIRDCAGE BINGO w/ RUBY RED at Mellow Mushrooms Pizza. She a i n ’ t Herman Cain, but at Mushroom Pizza, she raised $10,000 in just ONE YEAR for charity through her show…no wonder she had such a big turnout for her one year anniversary show AND her recent birthday celebration. With all this going on for her, I thought she would be PERFECT last person that I interview for 2011. Let’s talk!
Brent: Happy belated birthday whore! Is it true that you’re turned 50? Ruby Redd: Hell no bitch I’m 39! That nasty cunt Victor Brady! I can’t believe he’s spreading the word all around town that I turned 50.
Congratulations for raising all that money for 2011! And I heard you recently just started ANOTHER bingo show? Ruby: Well it was actually just a little OVER $10,000. That money went to Chris Kids, the Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence, the Armorettes P.W.A. fund (People With Aids), homeless youth programs, and other multiple charities. And yes, my other show is 10pm Thursday nights at The Cock Pit called DIRTY BOY BINGO in East Atlanta! Aren’t
2012 you also hosting a bingo show somewhere on that side of town?
Yes, but my show is 8pm at Matador not too far from yours. Ruby: Believe it or not Brent, it’s even DIRTIER than the show I do at Mellow Mushroom. We talk about fisting, butt plugs, sex toys, San Francisco Bird Feeder…
WHAT is a San Francisco Bird Feeder? Ruby: [answer deleted by the editors of David for being TOO dirty!]
Um…you won. THAT is disgusting! Ruby: It’s just fun to see how far the envelope can be pushed…sometimes the show includes racial humor, and it can be VERY politically incorrect.
Yeah like the writers of South Park, nothing is off limit to you---that includes degrading yourself ALL the time. Ruby: Oh you know me girl.
And I see you occasionally rotate some of the Armorettes as special guests. Ruby: I try to invite them every three months but the entire month of December since you know I’m now an Armorette. And YOU too Mr. Star!
Yep. Aren’t we called “Hair Pin” level Armorettes? I feel more like a ‘bobby pen’.
‘(lol) So who do you hope to see as the
next President?
Ruby: Obama.
Agreed. I mean, what can the next man really do? Besides make another campaign vide‑o about hating on gays. Ruby: Obama isn’t perfect, but he’s done better at handling that pile of shit that was left behind for him to fix better than any other person would have. Better than that McCain.
Hahahaha “pile of shit”, you are sooo “Divine”. (Divine is a very famous drag star, google her). I love it! Well Ruby, it’s time to rap this up. Any New Year wishes you have for the gay community? Ruby: I would just like to see more people come out and get more involved in the community. My name is Ruby Redd and I approve this message. This is my 2nd time interviewing Ruby and I had just as much fun. I want to wish all of you readers a prosperous New Year and thank you again for reading my columns. UNTIL next year (next week whore), don’t read the girls, instead, read The Brent Star Report! Where to catch Brent Star on New Year’s: Oscars— NY’s Eve (prize for best mask and no cover). Five Napkins Burgers ---New Year’s Day
Ruby: (lol) And I feel like a ‘paper clip’!
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NYE Parties! Blakes on the Park Join Shawnna Brooks & Jealouse as they ring in the New Year. Party favors & complimentary champagne at midnight, no cover! Heretic Special benefit party for Joining Hearts with DJ Mike Pope on the turn tables. Doors open at 9pm, champagne at midnight, and VIP tickets on sale now. Chaparral / Club Rush The Latin nightclub is getting a face lift and is transforming its space into a new dance club, Club Rush. VIP & Bottle service, LED light bars, and a fresh look give this club a new feel for 2012. Jungle Atlanta’s famous 18+ dance club rings in the New Year with DJ Wendy Hunt for Last Dance – A flashback to the future! Spinning some of the best hits from the late 80’s and early 90’s. Special performance by Debby Holiday! Doors @ 9pm. My Sisters Room / Eden MC Chase Daniels invites you to Atlanta’s oldest “ladies” bar! DJ Liz Owen spins, with performances by Baby Frantz & Elea Atlanta. Money balloon drop, champagne toast, and buffet start at midnight. Swinging Richards The famous strip club wants you to swing with them into 2012… if you are lucky enough to get a ticket still! Open bar, 15 minute VIP sessions (for free), and champagne toast at midnight! Call or visit them online for more information.
Mary’s Keep it simple with Attack of the New Year’s Eve Party Monster, no cover, and free champagne at midnight The Hideaway Atlanta’s most popular “hidden” bar is no longer a well-kept secret as they move into 2012. Come join your favorite friends and bartenders with the move into the New Year! Friends on Ponce Come grab a cup (of 5) of holiday cheer at Friends for NYE! Join them for their annual New Years Eve party! Eagle Come dance into the New Year with DJ Pat Scott on one of the best dance floors in Atlanta. Champagne toast at midnight, no cover. Amsterdam A night that is packed full of entertainment and hot boys. DJ McCracken spinning, free valet parking, midnight toast, and jello shooter boys. $2 cover raising money for Joining Hearts. LeBuzz The New LeBuzz rings in 2012 with free party favors and giveaways! Performances by Divas Cabaret Stripped Special Show and a free champagne toast at midnight! $5 cover, $15 for under 21! Is your favorite bar not on this list? Contact them or visit their website to get info on their events for NYE!
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map Bar | Club
1 2
Amsterdam
502 Amsterdam Ave. www.amsterdamatlanta.com
Bellissima
560-B Amsterdam Ave. www.myspace.com/ bellissima_lounge
3 Blakes on the Park 4 Bliss Atlanta 5 BJ Roosters 6 Bulldogs 7 Burkhart’s 8 Chaparral 9 Eagle 10 Felix’s 11 Friends on Ponce 12 Gilberts 13 Heretic 14 Joe’s on Juniper
227 10th St. www.blakesontheparkatlanta.com 2284 Cheshire Bridge Rd. www.blissofatlanta.com 2345 Cheshire Bridge Rd. www.myspace.com/bjroostersat 893 Peachtree St.
1492 Piedmont Ave. www.burkharts.com
2715 Buford Hwy www.chaparralalternative.com 306 Ponce de Leon Ave. www.atlantaeagle.com 1510 Piedmont Ave
736 Ponce de Leon Ave. www.friendsonponce-atl.com 219 10th St. www.gilbertscafe.com
2069 Cheshire Bridge Rd. www.hereticatlanta.com 1049 Juniper St www.joesonjuniper.com
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15 Jungle 16 LeBuzz 17 Las Margaritas 18 Mary’s 19 Mixx 20 Model T’s 21 My Sisters Room 22 Opus 1 23 Oscars Atlanta 24 Swinging Richards 25 The Cockpit 2115 Faulkner Rd. www.jungleclubatlanta.com
585 Franklin Rd SE # A-10 www.thenewlebuzz.com 1842 Cheshire Bridge Rd. www.lasmargaritasmidtown.com 1287 Glenwood Ave. www.marysatlanta.com
1492 Piedmont Ave - B www.mixxatlanta.com
699 Ponce De Leon Ave NE #11. www.modeltatlanta.com 1271 Glenwood Ave www.mysistersroom.com 1086 Alco St.
1510 Piedmont Ave NE www.oscarsatlanta.com 1400 Northside Dr. www.swingingrichards.com 465 Boulevard Ave www.thecockpit-atlanta. blogspot.com
26 The Hideaway
1544 Piedmont Rd NE, Suite 124. www.atlantahideaway. com
27 Tripps 28 Woofs 29 91
1931 Piedmont Circle www.trippsatlanta.com 2425 Piedmont Rd NE www.woofsatlanta.com 91 Broad St
Gym | Spa
30 Flex 31 Gravity Fitness 32 Manifest4U 76 4th St. www.flexbaths.com
2201 Faulkner Rd www.gravityatl.com
2103 Faulkner Road www.manifest4u.org
Retail
9 Rawhide Leather 33 Brushstrokes/ Capulets
at the Eagle. 404.881.0031
1510 Piedmont Ave. www.brushstrokesatlanta.com
34 Boy Next Door Bookstore 35 Outwrite & Café 1447 Piedmont Rd. www.boynextdoor.biz
991 Piedmont Ave. www.outwritebooks.com
36 Poster Hut Nights 37 Southern Videos
2175 Cheshire Bridge Rd. www.myspace.com/posterhut
2205 Cheshire Bridge Rd. www.southernnights.com
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Music Reviews
Our Favorite Songs of 2011
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t’s difficult to pick 10 favorite songs of the year when your tastes range from Drake to the Dixie Chicks. Based upon iTunes play count and memories these are my 10 favorite pop/rock/R&B songs for 2011.
10. Stranger to Love – Sonyae Elise I’m pretty sure I was the only viewer of Bravo’s songwriting reality flop Platinum Hit, but this was a standout track from winner Sonyae Elise; a song I could definitely hear Beyoncé sing. Listen for the line “. . . you woke up the woman and put the girl to sleep . . .”
9. Video Games – Lana Del Ray With pinup girl looks and a soulful, silky voice, Lana Del Ray became the internet artist of the summer with this lover’s ode. Her debut album will be released in January.
8. Bullet – Clare Maguire British singer-songwriter Clare Maguire wowed me with this amazing track about having your heart broken. You can feel the haunting pain when she sings “. . . you shot this bullet through my bones. . .” because haven’t we all been there at least once?
7. Shake It Out – Florence + The Machine I’ve heaped so much praise upon Florence Welch since the release of Ceremonials and this second single is just one of 12 reasons. Seriously, get this record!
6. Repeat – David Guetta feat. Jessie J I’ve given Jessie J a hard time for her identity crisis but this was a standout on David Guetta’s album and I’m hoping for a single release.
5. 1+1 – Beyoncé Beyoncé probably rushed the release of every single and video from 4 because she knew she was pregnant but this song was unnecessarily glossed over. Her vocals are impeccable and the simplicity of the production eerily reminds me of Prince’s Nothing Compares 2 U.
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4. Edge of Glory – Lady Gaga This slice of sinful 80’s synth heaven was a delicious treat this summer. Its video took inspirations from everybody from Michael Jackson to Paula Abdul and also featured Clarence Clemons last sax solo.
3. Call Your Girlfriend – Robyn Only Robyn could make such pop perfection with a song whose subject matter is well . . . bad. Hopefully after SNL and Grammy awards everyone will know her name.
2. Moves Like Jagger – Maroon 5 feat. Christina Aguilera There was no need for Christina to be on this track. After being disappointed with Maroon 5’s album Hands on Over, they served me with this inescapable pop melody. Adam Levine definitely has some Jagger moves I’d like to see; Aguilera just seems jagged.
1. Someone Like You – Adele 2011 was the year of Adele – no questions asked. This lovelorn ballad was heartbreaking and uplifting at the same time. In interviews Adele has said this is the song she wants to be remembered by- for 2011 you sure have my blessing.
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calendar MONDAY
WEDNESDAY
BLAKES ON THE PARK
BLAKES ON THE PARK
THE EAGLE Comedy TV- Free Pool
THE EAGLE 80’s Music with Travis
FRIENDS ON PONCE
FRIENDS ON PONCE Bingo 8pm
Drag On The Edge Show 11pm
Bad Boy Brian opens at 2pm
HERETIC Industry Night with Brian; Dance Floor Open @ 10pm
JUNGLE Stars of the Century Show 11pm THE HIDEAWAY $2.50 Domestic Beer FELIX’S Free Pool THE COCKPIT Big Red Cup Mondays All Day & 1/2 Price Appetizers 5-8pm
TUESDAY BLAKES ON THE PARK I Gotta Sing!
Hosted by Jealose & Jerry (Karaoke) 11pm
THE EAGLE Tuesdays with Tony FRIENDS ON PONCE
Let’s Make a Deal 6pm
HERETIC Time Warp – 70’s, 80’s, & 90’s
Music with Paul; Dance Floor Opens 10pm
SWINGING RICHARDS
No Cover Before Midnight, $5 After
THE HIDEAWAY
Service Industry Night - Employee Prices. Trivia w/ Will 9pm - 11pm
FELIX’S Smirnoff Martini Night THE COCKPIT DUDE: 80s Party, 9pm & 1/2 Price Appetizers 5-8pm
CHAPARRAL HipHop til 4am, $5
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Feathers & Flesh Burlesque Revue 11pm
HERETIC H.U.M.P Dress Code Party w/ DJ Lydia Prim.
SWINGING RICHARDS 2-4-1 VIP Room THE HIDEAWAY Craps & Blackjack with Miss Lauren
THE COCKPIT
Balls Deep Karaoke, 10pm with Mikey and Wesley &1/2 Price Appetizers 5-8pm
THURSDAY BLAKES ON THE PARK
Texas Hold’Em Poker 7pm, The Shawna Factor Show, 11pm
THE EAGLE Karaoke with Mikey FRIENDS ON PONCE Where Girls Who Like Girls Meet Girls all night
HERETIC : 3- Legged Cowboy Night @ 10pm; Dance Lessons @ 8pm
JUNGLE Cherry Pop Thursday! LAS MARGARITAS
Crazy Bitch Bingo 7:30pm
SWINGING RICHARDS
2-4-1 VIP Room & 2-4-1 Door Entry
THE HIDEAWAY Levi & Leather Night FELIX’S Karaoke w/ Brett & Tyler 10pm THE COCKPIT
Dirty Boy Bingo, 9pm w/ Ruby Redd
FRIDAY
SATURDAY
BLAKES ON THE PARK
BLAKES ON THE PARK
THE EAGLE DJ Dance Party
THE EAGLE DJ Dance Party
FRIENDS ON PONCE
FRIENDS ON PONCE
HERETIC Primal Urges with DJ Lydia Prim;
HERETIC Club Night, Various Guest DJ’s.
JUNGLE Club Night, Various DJ’s
JUNGLE Club Night, Various Guest DJ’s.
SWINGING RICHARDS
SWINGING RICHARDS
CHAPARRAL Got Leche? til 4am, $10
FELIX’S Karaoke w/ Brett & Tyler 10pm
THE HIDEAWAY
THE COCKPIT Rotating VJ’s & DJ’s,
FELIX’S Bartenders Serve It Up!
SWINGING RICHARDS
Kitty LeClaw’s Meow Mix Show 11pm
Happy Times with Bad Boy Brian & Ken
No Cover Before 10pm, $5 after
Open @ noon with Bob Brewer
No Cover Before 11pm.
T-Shirt Review, $10 Cover
T-Shirt Review, $10 Cover
After Work Martini Madness
(resident DJ, Diablo Rojo)
THE COCKPIT Rotating VJ’s & DJ’s, (resident DJ, Diablo Rojo)
Jealose’s Daring Diva’s Show 11pm
T-Shirt Review, $10 Cover
CHAPARRAL Dance Party FELIX’S Karaoke w/ Brett & Tyler 10pm THE COCKPIT Rotating VJ’s & DJ’s, (resident DJ, Diablo Rojo)
CHAPARRAL DJ Jay McKracken, $5
SUNDAY BLAKES ON THE PARK
Sunday Brunch 12-3, DJ’s Bill Berdeaux and Daryl Cox Spin All Night.
FRIENDS ON PONCE Bad Boy Brian’s Smirnoff B Mary Bar 12:30pm
LAS MARGARITAS
All You Can Eat Brunch 11am-3pm
THE HIDEAWAY
Make Your Own Bloody Mary Bar 12:30pm
FELIX’S
Bloody Mary & Mimosa Wallet Pleasers
THE COCKPIT
PBR Beer Bust -- Open & Pouring
CHAPARRAL Hip Hop w DJ Truz, no cover
calendar | BARTAB davidatlanta | 51
Opinion
A Gay Year in Review, and the Milestones We Have Crossed gay marriage from all political groups was at an all-time high. Following the Justice Department’s announcement on February 23 that it would no longer defend the Defense of Marriage Act in court, the government took an even more enormous step when it ruled that the military’s Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell policy was unconstitutional, thus enabling LGBT service members to serve openly, and was officially repealed on September 20.
G
by Lucas Witherspoon
iven our country’s current economic state, this year hasn’t been especially great to all of us. The national unemployment rate has been consistently hovering around nine percent, the stock market is seemingly perpetually unsteady, and corporate greed amongst all of the hardship is at a peak. However, fiscal issues aside, it’s been a fabulously progressive year for the LGBT community. Perhaps most noteworthy is that, according to a Gallup poll, for the first time ever in our nation’s history, a majority (53%) of Americans support same-sex marriage. People aged 18-29 make up the largest portion of those in favor of same-sex marriage, with 68 percent advocating it, up 11 points since 2005. Even support among senior citizens (65+) rose 15 points, though only 33 percent of them actually believe in the legalization of same-sex marriage. But still, it’s progress! By the end of 2011,
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Even for those of us who do not serve in the military, this was a huge step towards ending LGBT discrimination within the military and elsewhere (it directly influenced the enactment of antidiscrimination and anti-bullying provisions based on sexual orientation in a number of places). To celebrate the victory, on July 16, over 300 active duty troops and veterans marched in San Diego’s gay pride parade, marking the first time American troops have ever openly participated in a Pride celebration. On June 24, the New York Senate made New York the most populous state to institute same-sex marriage; a month later, 659 marriages took place, a one-day record for the city. It wasn’t just an important year for LGBT citizens stateside, though. Nepal, for example, made the monumental decision to add a third gender option to its country’s census, thereby officially recognizing transgendered people. This is believed to have been the first time that has ever happened in any country. Elsewhere, the Supreme Federal Court of Brazil legalized same-sex unions in a unanimous 10-0 vote, Colombia
began distinguishing de facto same-sex couples as families, and Ireland’s first public same sex civil partnerships took place. To cap the year off, Hillary Clinton delivered what can only be described as the LGBT community’s answer to Martin Luther King, Jr.’s “I Have a Dream” speech when she appealed to the United Nations in Geneva for the identification of LGBT rights as “universal human rights.”
proven instrumental in the push for equality. Looking forward to 2012, we can only hope that the recognition and legality of our civil rights will be further advanced at the rapid pace we’ve seen over the past year, but that will only come with continued aggressive and impassionate work.
Clearly, we’re not where we would like to be in terms of full equality for every LGBT citizen; notwithstanding, this year has davidatlanta | 53
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start at $25 To place an ad, call 404.418.8901 ext. 2 or email classifieds@ davidatlanta.com
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La Nota Rosa
¡Feliz Año Nuevo! S
por Luis Chiruco
e acabó el 2011. Cada vez pasa más rápido el tiempo. Hoy nos volvemos a tomar las uvas, pediremos unos cuantos deseos y comenzaremos un año más de nuestras vidas. Hoy voy a pedir varias cosas, que no sé si se cumplirán. Son las mismas que todos los años: SALUD, AMOR, PAZ Y RESPETO PARA TODOS (ya sé que suena un poco cursi, así dicho, pero es lo que me gustaría). Además a este año, que por cuestiones sentimentales ha sido un tanto extraño, le voy a pedir que me mantenga la capacidad de seguir ilusionándome, que siga emocionándome con una canción, con una película o con una sonrisa,
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que conozca a gente que merezca la pena... y sobre todo, que me siga riendo, que me ría mucho. Creo que cuando pedimos cosas, siempre nos olvidamos del sentido del humor, de ese reirnos de nosotros mismos... Lo dejamos siempre de lado, y es (por lo menos para mí) fundamental. Bueno, pues voy a prepararme para la últma noche del año, que la celebraré con la familia y los amigos. Ojálá el año que viene todos seamos más libres y tolerantes. Y nosotros que lo veamos... got leche? ¡¡FELIZ AÑO!!
FairyScopes
ARIES (March 20 – April 19): Sudden outbursts 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. TAURUS (April 20 – May 20): Sassy, daring boldness 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.
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. CANCER (June 21- July 22): Holidays put stress on relationships. This decade is especially tough for that, and the next few years will be worse. Talk about your shared commitment and goals. Learn rough spots in the present to be ready when they recur in the future. LEO (July 23 – August 22): Being nice with some 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. LIBRA (September 23 – October 22): When the 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. SCORPIO (October 23 – November 21): Your 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! 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.
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CAPRICORN (December 21 – January 19): Your 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. 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! 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.
Scopes brought to you by Jack Fertig, professional astrologer since 1977. Visit his website at www.starjack.com.
Bitch! Session
Is there any place in the city where I can buy workout shorts that don’t extend almost all the way down to my ankles? They’re called gym shorts, not capri pants. Us lesbians need a stronger voice in the LGBT community. I am tired of the stereotypes – most that come from within the gay community. Why so much animosity?
That ungrateful, selfimportant goblin is taking our money and paying his rent. Stop be so gullible, Atlanta! It’s ridiculous that people are still building McMansions in historical neighborhoods. Soon we wont have any history left!
I can’t figure out why people drink PBR. Is it because they are trying to be hipster or because they truly cant afford to shell out an extra $1 for a higher quality and tastier beverage. After 10 years of staring at torsos and cocks online, I really only care to see your face now. Stop hiding behind a pretty body. It only gets better when we stop BULLYING people in our own community. Lets set the example perhaps. I am really impressed with the new David Magazine. I hope 2012 is amazing for the publication!
I am happy to hear Richards isn’t closing down, I can’t imagine losing them! Some damn drag queen called my ass out on the dance floor the other night. Naturally, I pulled her wig off and then ran out of the club with it. Suck it bitch.
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Gotta Bitch?
text:
404.969.BTCH or 404.969.2824
It’s pretty bad when you buy a friend a giftcard because you know giving them cash will be spent on drugs. My dick reacts faster than my brain. I’m not apologizing for this, I’m just informing the general public.
From one white queer to the resta y’all: FYI whites are a minority in Atlanta – so any gay club or panel that’s all white is racist-by-omission for leaving out a majority of the population. Try a little harder. I.M.S. = Irritable Male Syndrome. Happens once a month, at least. When I watch MTV Cribs, I don’t feel bad about downloading music illegally. To the guy on A4A who came over this last weekend, I don’t know where you learned your numbers, but 4” and 8” are totally different.
If I have to hear ONE more person tell me about the welfare queen they know or how they pulled themselves up by their bootstraps, I’m gonna vomit! Tell me about the awesome single mothers you know, and how your circumstances made things easier for you than others! I know some people who have barebacked their way through Atlanta, turning hundreds of tricks. Some of the people they slept with are your best friends or lovers... even the ones you wouldn’t imagine to BB have slept with these master con artists. Next time you are sleeping without a condom, think about some of the people I know sleeping with you, and how you are almost guaranteed to get HIV from them. NOBODY is safe from it.