Fenuxe Issue 82 Marriage and Ceremonies

Page 1





FENUXE.COM : 5


FENUXE Editor’s

Did you see Saturday Night Live’s skit about “Xanax for Gay Weddings?” If you haven’t seen it, you can watch it at FENUXE. com. Not only was it super cute and hilarious, but it highlighted for me just how far our community has come in recent history. At no other time in our history has it been so great to live openly and proudly gay!

Note

Admittedly, we still have a long road to travel toward equality. However, we can continue to build the foundation of equality by living out with pride and staying actively engaged in the fight for equal rights. If you’re a politics junkie, like several of my friends, you’ve probably heard of Bishop E. W. Jackson. Jackson is the Republican candidate for lieutenant governor of Virginia. Since the 1980s, Jackson has actively fought against programs that work to stop the spread of HIV. He is a vocal supporter of laws that discriminate against gays, including his call for “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” to be reinstated. Unsurprisingly, he is also vehemently against marriage equality. When asked about gay marriage, he said, “Their minds are perverted, they’re frankly very sick people psychologically, mentally and emotionally and they see everything through the lens of homosexuality. When they talk about love they’re not talking about love, they’re talking about homosexual sex.” It was with wackos like Jackson in mind that FENUXE sponsored a contest in 2010 for a local couple who to travel to Toronto, Canada to tie the knot. The young couple selected were deeply in love and both longed for the day they could make their love and life official. When Jackson screams on TV that gays make him feel “icky” and that we don’t know what love is, I think about this couple. Our haters can stand up and say whatever they want about us. We know who we are and we know that our love is just as real as anything any straight person has ever felt. It has now been three years since Kristen and Kalisa were wed and I’m proud to report that they’re still happily married. Our love is real, it is powerful, and it is worth fighting for.

Tyl er

Tyler Calkins Publisher/Editor-in-Chief | tyler@fenuxe.com

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F.E.N.U.X.E. 14 Fashion Mengagement Rings Rise to the Occasion 22 Events Three Cheers for Three Years, Augusta Pride 2013 26 NightLife Tie the Knot, Cut a Rug: Tips for the Wedding Afterparty 36 Urban Culture Ryan Nickulas and the Quest to Become a Gay Dad 32 xplore Planning Your Post-Wedding Paradise 48 eats Atlanta Caterers Who Feel the Love

ESSENTIALS 55 Fenuxe After Dark 56 Gay Atlanta Map 58 Calendar & Parties

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FENUXE Tyler Calkins

PUBLISHER/EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Kat Tippins • Managing Editor Berlin Sylvestre • STAFF WRITER Dino Thompson-Sarmiento • Senior Writer John Hilton, Duffy, Eric Ramirez • contributors Dwayne Kinney • Digital editor Eugene Salas, Jim Dykstra - Editorial Interns

ART

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To advertise, please call 404.835.2016 email info@fenuxe.com or visit www.fenuxe.com Published by TW MEDIA GROUP, inc©2013 ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. 1375 Spring St. NW, Atlanta, GA 30309 Phone: 404.835.2016 | Fax: 404.835.2356 Opinions and claims made by advertisers are those of the advertisers only. Fenuxe accepts no liability for any claims made by advertisers. The views and opinions expressed in this issue are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of any agency of TW Media Group, Inc.

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FASHION

Mengagement Rings Rise to the Occasion

Eric Ramirez, Contributor

It’s a gay guy’s dream: that beautiful boyfriend stands smiling in front of you and gets down on one knee. You think you’re about to get lucky, but then he does you one better — he’s holding an engagement ring. With same-sex marriages on the rise, there’s a steady increase in demand for engagement rings that cater to men, both gay and straight. Whether it’s two gay men, or a straight woman opting to pop the question herself, Atlanta jewelers are helping “mengagement rings” rise to the occasion.

Jonathan Buckhead 110 East Andrews Drive NW, Cates Center #4 Atlanta, Ga. 30305 (404) 846-7988 jonathanbuckhead.com

“The cool thing is that we can create our own tradition,” says Atlanta jeweler Jonathan Shapero, owner of Jonathan Buckhead, a gay-friendly jewelry store. “The act of engagement, I think is just another step or a higher step in a relationship, but it’s never questioned by religion or the state. Everyone can participate in it.” Following yesteryear’s traditions, a man proposes to a woman by offering her a diamond ring. But with today’s changing social views, the genders of the proposed and the proposer vary, as do the designs of the rings themselves. And regardless of either partner’s gender, a lot depends on the stone. So what exactly does a menagement ring look like? According to Shapero, it comes down to the metal and a single stone, all with a simplistic, clean design.

Worthmore Jewelers 500 Amsterdam Ave NE Atlanta, Ga. 30306 (404) 892-8294 117 East Court Square Decatur, Ga. 30030 (404) 370-3979 worthmorejewelers.com

“The stone can be set lower for a guy, it can have a wider shank. There are ways to set a diamond that are more in tune with a guy. I don’t want to say masculine because that’s not really the issue,” says Shapero. “With a guy’s finger, you have the ability to create a wider band with diamonds in it or set lower.” Choosing the perfect ring is a weighty decision — “until death do us part” doesn’t just go for the man you marry, it goes for the ring as well. You consider the metal: precious metals such as white gold or alternatives like cobalt. Then there’s detailing on the band such as a hammered finish or engraving. And while diamonds remain the traditional stone, they aren’t right for everyone. “I would say out of all the stones in the past year, black diamonds have been extremely popular. And the rose gold or white gold with a black diamond is a really nice contrast,” says Harris Botnick, owner of Worthmore Jewelers, another gay-friendly jewelry establishment. “We do have a lot of guys though who will go with say a colored stone, might even be their birthstone depending upon what it is. And then we’ll do the opposite stone in the other partner’s ring.”

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Both partners wearing an engagement ring is another developing trend. Aside from both partners wanting to flash their pre-wedding glitz, it also fairly identifies each partner as being off the market. It’s a decision every couple can make for themselves, and whatever the decision, the engagement ring(s) serves as a precursor to the arguably more important wedding rings. “Of course there are no rules. Traditionally, a girl wears two rings: an engagement ring and a wedding band,” Shapero adds. “We’re designing pieces that work together so that guys can actually ask for their boyfriend’s hand in marriage and buy a ring. A set, or rings that work together, is the next step.” With the opportunity that’s now before all gay men — to create marital traditions — there are rings suitable for every couple to make the jump from boyfriends to husbands. But the increasing popularity of mengagement rings is an especially exciting prospect. As gay marriages become progressively more popular, you can expect to see more and more jewelers offering a selection of stunning, classy rings that suit any kind of man. Although for now they tend to be marketed as “commitment rings,” that is something else sure to change down the line. “We have called them commitment rings in advertisements for so long, but truthfully, they are wedding rings. And maybe we shouldn’t differentiate them now to try and push the point of gay marriage being equal everywhere,” says Botnick. “Remember that this ring is not just for today, not just for tomorrow, but a ring for down the road.”



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ENGAGE YOUR SEVENTH SENSE WITH A

Commitment Ceremony BY

REV. DAWN SMITH Kat Tippins, Managing Editor

Just because you can’t legally wed your partner in Georgia doesn’t bar you from proclaiming your love in a service that celebrates and affirms the life you share together. Same-sex commitment ceremonies, like the many performed by interfaith minister Rev. Dawn Smith, are a significative option for gay couples who wish to marry (as much as they can) outside of the 12 marriage equality states and Washington, D.C. Rev. Dawn has performed commitment ceremonies for couples who wed in a marriage equality state or in another country and then returned to Georgia, as well as couples without a marriage license who just want the ceremony. “Sometimes they do [the legal ceremony] before, sometimes after. I would say most of my couples end up doing the legal ceremony as well,” Rev. Dawn tells FENUXE. “What’s nice for me is that my seminary has graduates all over the country, so sometimes I can refer them to a minister in other states, in one of the legal states.” For these couples, Rev. Dawn says she will perform a second complimentary ceremony when same-sex marriage becomes legal in Georgia.

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The name of her business, Seventh Sense Weddings & Events, comes from the subject matter in which she works: “I think in a sense it’s purposefully ambiguous, because we know what the five senses are, and most people have a sense of what a sixth sense is, in terms of intuition or psychic ability. But the seventh sense is kind of up for debate. Some people think it’s some kind of spiritual realm that’s beyond our everyday senses, and some people think it’s love.” Rev. Dawn offers pre-commitment counseling, spiritual coaching, home and office blessings, and baby blessings and namings, among other services. With her training in all the major world religions, Rev. Dawn is able to provide her services to couples of various creeds and spiritual backgrounds. “My specialty is working with couples who are from two or more different traditions, but I mostly work with couples who want something that’s spiritual but not ultra-traditionally religious,” says Rev. Dawn. She is also trilingual, with fluency in English, Spanish, and French.

Though she does not require it of her clients, Rev. Dawn highly recommends pre-commitment counseling for everyone: “I believe very strongly in it. I think it’s pretty much the best thing that almost any couple can do for themselves. I always say my goal is never to get the two people on the same page, but just to make sure that you know where your partner’s at, and know what each other is thinking, and feel like you have the tools to address whatever comes up, because change is inevitable. Then you have what it takes.” Contrary to the standards of some other ministers, Rev. Dawn says she never discourages couples from a commitment ceremony or a marriage. “I personally believe that relationships are brought to us for a reason, and they’re brought to us to learn lessons and to grow and evolve,” she says. “I can definitely suggest that they do counseling and that they ask each other questions and they take their time, but I will not make a call whether somebody should stay together or not.” Rev. Dawn also notes the importance of tailoring a commitment ceremony specifically to you and your partner’s relationship. “What I always tell people is that if you are not eloping, then the people who you have at your celebration are meaningful to you. So, one of the things I like to do is talk about how we can find a way to give a nod to your tradition, give a nod to your family, incorporate something that is meaningful to your community,” she explains. “So, just know that that’s out there, and that you can get really creative with it, and that you can create something that’s really personal and meaningful.” To learn more about Seventh Sense Weddings & Events and Rev. Dawn’s services, visit seventhsenseproductions.com or call (404) 729-0640.



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FENUXE.COM : 21


Pride By The Numbers:

EVENT

Augusta City Population:

192,142 Year Pride was founded:

JUNE 2010

Number of attendees the first year:

3,500 Three Cheers for Three years, In 2010, Augusta Pride brought in 3,500 people; two years later, the number of attendees doubled to around 7,500.

aUgUSTa

pRIdE 2013 Berlin Sylvestre, Staff Writer

Augusta Pride’s organizers were thrown headlong into a maelstrom of controversy when, in 2010, they applied for a permit to host the city’s first gay pride parade. Emails, phone calls, letters, and spirited protests to stop the city from allowing the LGBT-themed festivity flooded Mayor Deke Copenhaver’s office, tearing at the seams of his own party. "The pedophiles want their 'perversion' to be accepted and celebrated," read one e-mail. "These people have my permission to go back into the closet where they belong," another stated, while a local reverend took the time to write: "This is Augusta, Georgia not Sodom or Gomorrah." A petition to prevent LGBT-related events was placed on the mayor’s desk, complete with Bible quotes and 14 signatures. It appeared to many that Augusta wouldn’t be joining the ranks of only three other cities in Georgia — Atlanta, Savannah, and Valdosta — by having a pride event of their own. Nevertheless, the committee was determined to march on — and it paid off. Mayor Copenhaver gave the pride committee the greenlight, citing constitutional protections for free and peaceful assembly and the city hasn’t looked back since. The first Augusta Pride took place that year, with a staggering attendance of 3,500. By 2012, the event had more than doubled in size with 10,500 revelers joining the party. This year is slated to be the city’s biggest Pride event ever. The vendor spaces are almost completely sold out, and the list of top-dollar sponsors come from national and local businesses, such as Barefoot Wine and Bubbly, Gordon Chevrolet, the Augusta Convention and Visitors Bureau, and our very own Atlanta Pride.

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Number of attendees in 2011:

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NIGHTLIFE

Tie the Knot, Cut a Rug:

Tips for the Wedding Afterparty Berlin Sylvestre, Staff Writer

Akeem Clayton’s first name autocorrects on my phone as “sleek,” which makes perfect sense when you look at his work. A nationally recognized name in event design (you saw him on “Say Yes to the Dress,” right?), the Atlanta resident gives some professional insight on what to consider after the wedding is over and the real party begins. So let’s cut to the chase: What exactly does afterparty planning entail? Akeem insists we be mindful of many elements if we want to make the most of the evening, like décor, lighting, a well-versed DJ, and food. (Food at an afterparty? Especially!) “You need to be mindful of a menu, even though you fed your guests a full-course meal at the reception. It’s going to be late, so you want to be conscious of the fact that you have people there — so it’s only proper that you give them something to eat. You don’t have to give them a full-course meal, but you want to give them something appropriate for that hour,” Akeem says. “[The afterparty] gives you an opportunity to offer something different. You can serve drinks you didn’t get to serve at the reception. The things you didn’t get to do at the wedding, you can do at the afterparty and the possibilities are endless.” So is it improper etiquette not to invite everyone from the wedding? “Not at all,” says Akeem. “For the wedding, you usually invite your parents and their friends, guests you may have grown up with, people from high school, from the neighborhood, from church. The afterparty gives you the opportunity to invite who you want to invite, the people you really want to cut loose and really party with. The afterparty gives you the opportunity for an element of surprise, something even more personal [than your wedding details]. Maybe one of the grooms is into the drag scene. He could put on a drag show at the afterparty.” When asked what venue comes to mind for an elegant afterparty in honor of the two grooms (or the two brides), Akeem quickly chimes: “200 Peachtree.” He asserts that the 26 : June 6, 2013

grand atrium is a beautiful space with an adjoining spot that’s perfect for afterparties. “It feels like a Miami nightclub, from the lighting and floor-to-ceiling drapes, to the sleek, white furnishings.” No matter the venue, Akeem says: “You want to choose a spot that’s convenient and safe for your guests. You might even want to provide transportation.” You hear that? No DUI stories as you reminisce, lovelies. “The length of the afterparty depends on the venue you’re in, so you need to be aware of their operating hours as you plan,” says Akeem. You’re probably going to want two different DJs — one for the wedding and one for the afterparty. “Every DJ is not a wedding DJ,” he laughs. “In the wedding business, if we’re hiring a DJ for the reception, we’re hiring a DJ who is used to DJing at a wedding.They have to be comfortable announcing the wedding parties and introducing the groom and groom for the first time. You can’t just throw the mic at any DJ and expect him to do that.” But Akeem says the DJ who isn’t comfortable using his/her voice might be the perfect DJ for the afterparty. You want a DJ who is “used to DJing in the club scene, DJing at a party.” “This year, I’ve had more inquiries for same-sex weddings than I’ve had ever,” he says. “I think it’s because more [marriage equality] legislation is passing.” Akeem is aware that many gay couples travel to places where marriage is legal, but wants them to know he can handle the formal wedding with all their friends and their family when they get back. Sound like a plan? Check him out at AkeemClayton.com.


FENUXE.COM : 27


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XpLORE

Post-Wedding Paradise

Providence, R.I.

Jim Dykstra, Editorial Intern

True to the name, honeymoons offer a chance to make extremely sweet memories, and have out-of-this-world sex. However, an unaccommodating location can sour the experience for you and your partner. In order to avoid sticky situations, we’ve picked some of the best gay-friendly getaway spots in recently legalized locales.

RHODE ISLAND

Providence packs a powerful cultural punch. Boasting an openly gay mayor and 75 percent more lesbian couples than the national average, it is truly a divine destination. Edgewood Manor Inn, five minutes from downtown Providence, offers weddings and honeymoons in lavish rooms built in Greek Revival style. Take a gondola ride while sipping coffee with your beau or go in the summer to catch WaterFire, a must see art installation for cool and hot couples. Edgewood Manor Inn 232 Norwood Ave., Providence, R.I. 02905 (401) 781-0099 | providence-lodging.com

MINNESOTA

The newly christened land of a thousand gays offers unrivaled rural retreat options for queer couples. It’s private, placid, and far removed from urban hustle and bustle. We suggest American Eagle Bluff Bed and Breakfast, just outside of historic Reads Landing. Perched above the Mississippi River and the Tiffany Wildlife Area, you can see for 25 miles from your bedroom window — all while enjoying home-baked chocolate chip cookies. The area earned its name by being a renowned American Eagle flyway. What better way to celebrate your newfound freedom of marriage than eagle-watching? American Eagle Bluff Bed and Breakfast 70519 Highway 61, Reads Landing, Minn. 55968 (651) 564-0372 americaneaglebluffbedandbreakfast.com

32 : June 6, 2013

DELAWARE

Perfect for lovers on a budget, the Brandywine Valley is bursting with colonial charm and pastoral pleasures. Enjoy a glass or three from Chaddsford Winery’s selection of craft vino before taking a bike (or cab) ride to Longwood Gardens for fireworks displays above heavenly works of horticultural feng shui. We recommend The Inn at Montchanin, located midway between NYC and D.C., and ranked the World’s Best Hotel for $250 or less by Travel and Leisure magazine. The Inn at Montchanin 528 Montchanin Road Wilmington, Del. 19710 (302) 888-2133 montchanin.com Bethany Beach Delaware


URUGUAY If you’re a gay, visit Uruguay. The capital city of Montevideo is vibrant, eclectic, and best of all, cheap as the dickens. A nightly rate of $75 will book you a room at Montevideo Chic, an elegant building designed with gays in mind. Located in Ciudad Vieja, the pulsing cultural epicenter of the city, nearly all sights, clubs, and restaurants are within walking distance. Montevideo Chic Piedras 597 , Montevideo 11000, Uruguay +598 2915 0678 | montevideohostel.com

NEW ZEALAND Almost a third of New Zealand’s population, and even more of its culture, resides Piha, New Zealand in the capital city. Auckland’s Waitakere Estate provides an exotic rainforest backdrop for honeymoons and weddings. Catch jungle fever with a hike in the bush or charter a sailboat and get blown in Waitemata Harbour — the City of Sails is the perfect getaway once you’ve given your precious the one ring to rule them all. Auckland’s Waitakere Estate 573 Scenic Drive, Waiatarua 0612, New Zealand +64 9-814 9622 | waitakereestate.co.nz

FRANCE The newly designated European Capital of Culture, Marseille, is a blend of historic beauty and modern sophistication. It’s also home to this year’s EuroPride festival (July 10-20), one of the largest pride festivals in Europe. We recommend Hôtel le Richelieu, a colorful beachfront resort overlooking the sea, and a stone’s throw away from Old Port, a nearly 3,000 - year-old thoroughfare renowned for its food, drink, and conversation. In Marseille, no one will mind if you whip out your “oui oui.” Hôtel le Richelieu 52 Corniche du Président John F. Kennedy 13007 Marseille, France +33 4 91 35 78 78 | hotel-marseille-richelieu.com FENUXE.COM : 33


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URBAN CULTURE

RYAN NICKULAS Even though they’d known each other for a while, salon owner and star of “The A List: New York,” Ryan Nickulas knew he’d found the one when his friend Desmond Smith dropped to his knees — to play with Ryan’s pugs. After nearly six years of marriage, the two have planned to become parents in New York City, where gay marriage is good to go, but gay parenting still has its hurdles. Ryan took our call as he basked in the Puerto Rican sun, enjoying cocktails and talking shop about the process. Berlin Sylvestre, Staff Writer

F: What’s the toughest legal aspect you’re contending with? Making a will! When you start this process, you never think about dying. You never think about the responsibility before the babies are even here: What will happen to me before they get here? Who will take care of my children [if something happens to me]? Who will take the kids if something happens to us after the kids get here? That was tough. I’m writing a will at 32 years old. None of my friends have a will. It’s crazy to me 36 : June 6, 2013

that, before this process can happen, I have to think beyond the box and answer some really tough questions. [A will] is something the surrogacy agency requires. Surrogacy has been going on for quite some time, and I’m sure there have been cases where the parents have passed, so everything needs to be handled if you are going to take this journey. Every obstacle and every hurdle has to be covered. F: Have you and Desmond thought about the race of your child?

Yeah, we absolutely have. It’s not a huge priority. That said, ten fingers and ten toes. I just want a healthy baby. Race has never been an issue to me — I’m color blind. I’ve dated white men, black men, Hispanic men, Asian men. I like people for who they are, not for the color of their skin. Thank God we live in a time when people are changing, and thank God I live in New York! You know, Desmond and I don’t really get the side-eye in NYC. It’s not really an issue. I know in many other states it would be. It is recognizable. So I’m grateful for the city I live in and the man that I’m with. F: Did you have any criteria for a surrogate? I think the main criteria for me is that we are choosing to have an egg donor who is separate from our surrogate, so we have two different women involved in this process. The fertility clinic really focuses on the surrogate because there’s a science behind that, as well as a science behind the egg donor. There’s a lot of screening and testing and genetic testing — it’s a business, and they want a success rate. There are specific things but I’m not a scientist, I’m a hairdresser. I do hair color, not impregnate women. I don't know a lot, so unfortunately I’m a little ignorant on that, but for me, I want [a surrogate] who is intelligent, unique, maybe a bit of a firecracker. I want her to have a bit of a personality and is her own woman, and obviously so. I want a strong, independent woman to be the mother of my child. Yeah, she’s cute, she's got pretty blue eyes, but when it comes down to the nitty gritty, I want a strong, sparked, independent woman to have my kid. F: Who’s the biological father? It’s undetermined at this point. I think it’ll be obvious when the baby gets here, but it’s not obvious now. F: This is off-topic, but I have to know what happened with this story. I was reading about

a blogger who was harassing you online for a multitude of reasons and instead of lashing back, you invited him to Fashion Week in NYC. It’s funny. Listen, if you’re going to put yourself out there, you’re going to have haters. I had the ability to physically engage with one of my haters, and I took it. This gentleman was so wrong about me that I felt strongly about changing his opinion. It just so happened that I got invited to an “It Gets Better” Fashion Week bullying lounge. I had a plus one, an extra ticket, and I invited my bully to an anti-bullying lounge. He continued to bully me, but it didn't matter. It was a lessoned learned: You can change yourself, but you can't change other people. It wasn't my job [to change him]. My job is to take care of myself and the situation I’m in. I like my life, and I like myself. He ended up losing his job as a blogger, though. F: OK, so how about parenting styles? Couples can essentially turn into one person, but have you both considered the more sensitive parts to bringing up kids, like discipline, and what approach you want to go with? There will definitely be a good cop and bad cop scenario. I would love to tell you that I will be the good cop all of the time, but I can’t say that 100 percent. I just watched a mother reprimand her child at the pool, and it was so brilliant. Desmond turned and said, “That will be you” and I said “Nuh-uh! That’ll be you!” I will not be one of those parents who won’t reprimand my child. I will do my best not to have a brat. F: What’s a good age for gay couples to dive into parenthood? When you're ready, you’re ready. My parents had their kids in their 20s and Desmond’s parents had theirs in their 30s. Babies are game changers in your life, whether you’re ready or not. So if you feel like you’re ready, then go for it!


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LEGAL mINUTE

Adoption Review from Stephen C. Berger, Attorney at Law, LLC Kat Tippins, Managing Editor

Attorney Stephen Berger left his screenwriting gig in L.A. to pursue a career practicing family law. “I had always wanted to practice law,” he says. “I became interested in adoption a few years ago when my brother and his wife found out they weren’t able to conceive and they decided to adopt. Since I’ve always felt strongly about marriage equality and LGBT rights, I realized that if a straight couple had a difficult time adopting, the process would be even more fraught for gay couples, so while in law school I began to study the subject of LGBT adoption.” From his new practice in marietta, Stephen shared his thoughts on LGBT adoption in Georgia with FENUXE. Who can adopt? A person must be 25 or older or married and living with a spouse, be at least ten years older than the adoptee and be a resident of Georgia for at least six months. This is obviously in addition to the other fitness factors (physical, mental, financial, etc.) that are determined by an agency or other entity when a prospective parent seeks to adopt. What are the types of adoption? There are a variety of adoption models out there. Single parent adoptions are just what they sound like, when an

42 : June 6, 2013

individual adopts a child. A “stepparent” adoption is when the spouse of the adopting parent adopts the child as well (terminating the parental rights of the other biological parent). This option is important for LGBT couples as (for obvious reasons) the adopting couple will have at least one parent who is not a biological parent of the child. A relative adoption is when a blood relative seeks to adopt the child, as defined in the Georgia statute (O.C.G.A. § 19-8-7), thus terminating the parental rights of both biological parents. In Georgia, many foster parents end up adopting

children who become eligible — these adoptions are handled through the Georgia Department of Family and Child Services. What paths to adoption can one take? If prospective adoptive parents choose not to go the foster/adoption route but choose instead to use a private adoption agency, they should find one that is LGBT-friendly and specializes in assisting LGBT couples to adopt. Obviously the public option can be less expensive; however, using an agency that is sympathetic to the needs of LGBT couples may be worth the extra expense. What is the typical cost of adoption? As with other legal matters, there’s no one-size-fits-all amount that adoptive parents can expect to pay. As always, prospective parents should do their homework and research the resources out there to get a better idea. Based on all available information, you would not be able to do even a bare-bones (legitimate) adoption under the $3050K range. The other end of the scale, as you can imagine, easily shoots to the mid-to-high six figures, and beyond. Here you're paying for the top agencies, lawyers, etc., sparing no expense to find birth parents. International adoptions can involve all different varieties of expense depending on which country you're adopting from, finding resources both in the U.S. and in the foreign country, as well as travel expenses.

How is adoption in Georgia different for LGBT people? The main differences flow from the fact that gay marriage is not recognized legally in Georgia, at least not yet. This fact bars a couple from adopting the old-fashioned way, with both parents adopting at the same time and having the same legal relationship with the child. But with careful planning and effort, LGBT parents can end up with an adoption that is on a par with those of traditional, straight adoptive couples. What are the most common hurdles in the adoption process and how can potential parents prepare for them? In my view, the most common hurdles for LGBT adopters are the same as for any other adopting parents: Eligible children are in high demand. Therefore, an individual or couple may have to go through one or more false starts and near-misses, instances wherein a child seems to be available but ultimately isn’t. However, most people don’t give up, and in the end they are rewarded with the greatest gift imaginable: a child to love. Stephen C. Berger is a family law attorney. The opinions expressed in this article do not necessarily represent the opinions of Fenuxe Magazine or its employees. Mr. Berger nor Fenuxe are in any way providing legal advice and no legal relationship is being created between readers and the contributor, interviewer, Fenuxe, or any of their agents.


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JUNE

2013

JUNE

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Stonewall 101 An Insider’s History of ATL’s GLBTQ Community & Pride Festival Cirque du Nuit

Dine Out for Pride – Gilbert’s, HOBNOB, 10th & Piedmont

“On These Shoulders We Stand” screening

The Atlanta Pride Committee celebrated Dine Out for Pride – Doc Chey’s Noodle House the groundbreaking events of the “Married and Counting” screening Stonewall Riots from 2009 to 2011 Atlanta Pride Night featuring ChiChi LaRue and by dedicating a week in honor of special guest the historic movement. In 2012, the entire month of June was 16th Annual East Point Possums Show dedicated to the riots, and this June we honor Stonewall Dine Out for Pride – Gilbert’s, HOBNOB, 10th & Piedmont once again. These events provide education on what happened during the Out in the Stands at Turner Field protest on June 28, Dine Out for Pride – Osteria 832 Pizza and Pasta 1969, the context of Big Gay Game Show being gay during that time, and GALA Celebrates the Emory LGBT Archives a slew of entertainment.

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Pet Blessing and Picnic

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Zach Wahls reading and book signing

Pride Seder • Singing Out Proud: Living the Legacy • Stonewall Party

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Criminalization & Queer Rebellion: A Multi-Generational Discussion

Ninth Annual Evening for Equality • Singing Out Proud: Living the Legacy

For complete details for each Stonewall Month event, visit atlantapride.org/events.

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EATS

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A WALK DOWN THE AISLE SHOULD BE A JOY FILLED OCCASION, AND NO ONE SHOULD HAVE TO GUESS WHETHER OR NOT THEIR CATERER IS SECRETLY BIGOTED. FORTUNATELY, WE HAVE SCOUTED AREA FOOD AND DRINK PURVEYORS AHEAD OF TIME TO MAKE SURE THEY DELIVER AN EXCEPTIONAL PRODUCT AND ARE BONAFIDE FRIENDS OF DOROTHY. NOW YOU CAN SPEND YOUR TIME WORRYING ABOUT THE IMPORTANT STUFF, LIKE WHETHER YOU WANT BUTTERCREAM OR FONDANT.

PARTY EXECS Party Execs catering company, headed by the delightfully effervescent Kenna Scott, specializes in cocktail parties, but provides the whole shebang (not just for lesbians) and whole lot of personality to go with it. Kenna, who owns the company with her husband, gives a personal touch to everything the company does — this fact is certified by numerous gushing reviews online. While Party Execs focuses on food, such as honey bacon wrapped scallops, shrimp with green chili pesto, and chocolate tarts with salted peanuts, they can also organize events, flowers, staff, and resources for any occasion. “Food is the one thing that brings us all together,” Kenna tells FENUXE. “It’s the common denominator regardless of religion, race, or creed. There is such a huge gay presence in the city of Atlanta and I think it’s so important everyone embraces and acknowledges that we all share this great city.” This non-discriminatory stance is reflected in all aspects of Party Execs, from the staff comprised of numerous members of the gay community to the wide range of events they cater. partyexecs.com info@partyexecs.com (404) 963-5924

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MOBILE COCKTAILS ATL Sometimes it’s less about the food and more about the libations. Mobile Cocktails ATL, owned by Derek Behning, fills this niche market nicely. As the name implies, they primarily focus on all things mixology on the move, sending highly skilled, friendly staff to any event, anywhere. As Derek explains, his employees are tested in the fire of the public arena. “If I’m out and I see somebody who loves what they do, loves serving, is going out of their way for the customer, and has a great personality, that’s somebody I have to have,” he says. Mobile Cocktails ATL can provide full hospitality staffing to any event supplying everything from bartenders to barbacks, servers to security. Whether you’re thirsting for something fancy like an Aviation, a French 75, or perhaps something a bit more unique, Mobile Cocktails ATL can do it all. “We can theme drinks to who you are or what your event is all about,” says Derek. Plus, the company is no stranger to proudly serving its gay clientele and frequently staffs events for the big names like Microsoft, Google, and Playboy. mobilecocktailsatl.com derek@mobilecocktailsatl.com (404) 810-1030

48 : June 6, 2013

Party Execs

DELITEFUL EVENTS Deliteful Events has a long history of serving Atlanta “home cooked food with flair,” as owner Jennifer Dougherty puts it. From the business’s humble beginnings as a coffee shop to its current focus on catering, party planning, and cakes, it has stayed true to its emphasis on quality and flavor. The main goal of Deliteful Events is “to make every bite count” and this can be seen in their choice offerings like blackened tenderloin served with whipped garlic mashed potatoes or in their miniature fruit tarts, bursting with tangy fruit and cheesecake filling. Dougherty is deeply appreciative of the gay community because as she says, “They seem to embrace life more fully; prejudices aren’t there.” She also asserts all people, from her employees to her clients, are given the respect they deserve: “Everyone needs to feel accepted and welcomed for all the differences that make us human. Diversity is the spice of life!” delitefulevents.com jennifer@delitefulevents.com (404) 519-5138


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Clearly Committed Couples Walter Gallardo & Federico Benencio We met Nov. 18, 2000 in a chat room of a gay site back then in Argentina, where we both are from. I have seen Fede millions of times in clubs and bars around the city we come from, but he was always with the same guy. So when he sent me a pic I recognized him and started telling him tons of things about him because I really liked him, but then again he was always with the same guy. After me saying all the things I knew about him, he grew intrigued and asked me over to his apartment, so I came over and we spent the night sitting on the floor by the window sharing some rum and orange juice and telling each other's best and worst. After that night there was nothing about one of us that the other didn't know. Funny enough, we both have started plans to come over to the States. So a year later, we found ourselves living in Savannah, Ga. Fede was going to college there and I was working in any kinds of jobs that I could get to help us get by. After some time and once Fede graduated, we started to feel like Savannah wasn't the place for us anymore, so we decided to give the ATL a try. And here you find us, living in our little condo in the middle of the gay-borhood, just a couple of blocks from Piedmont Park and having a blast. We added two little bundles of joy to our family, Dali, our teacup Chihuahua and Lola, our rescued Yorkie.

BreeAnne Clowdus & Courtney Howe I'm not going to sugarcoat it: This was not love at first sight. No instant chemistry. No magical ZING. We did not like each other. But not to worry, this all has a happy ending. We were 22 and it was the first day at our inaugural post collegiate job. Court was still wearing her sorority key and I had only recently laid down my bullhorn and picket sign. She was social chair of her South Carolina sorority. I ran the LGBT organization on my campus in New Hampshire. We came to the same spot in our lives from two entirely different experiences so as one might imagine, there was little common ground. But one day, we got assigned to the same department and after about six months of sharing a double wide cube space, something happened. We started to really, really like each other. The differences between us that initially led to a gulf of misunderstanding now led to mutual infatuation. We were each like some other-worldly creature — her from a carved out of cream cheese background full of sports and Greek socials; me from a trailer in Alabama who lived inside books an aspiration to escape to greener pastures. And though we were so very different, we began to see that what we did share was a similar way of seeing the world, of participating in it and yes, that chemistry that was so slow to build showed up and almost knocked us both over. It was amazing and well worth the wait. So here we are, 15 years and three kids later. We have been through "in sickness and in health," we have been through the seven year itch and the 10 year triumph. We are, in no uncertain terms, a family. Stuck together like glue and glad to be so. Our daughter, Viv, is 6 now, our twins, Dashel and Shepherd, just turned 3. It is a crazy time in our lives — there is little time to rest and reflect on any of this ride that started so long ago. Late at night, though, as we drift off to sleep, I am often reminded of how all this might not have been were it not for that double wide cubicle. It's what I often say to my single friends — destiny doesn't always show up in a flurry of sparkles and thunder. Sometimes, the really good stuff, the things we are meant to do, show up quietly, in a whisper, and wait to see if we are attentive and patient enough to deserve just how marvelous they will grow to become. 50 : June 6, 2013


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Clearly Committed Couples Justin Rogers & Kevin Kochanski We met on a hookup site like eight years ago (gasp!), but we didn't actually meet in person until about nine months later. We just sort of emailed back and forth, chatting about this and that, sort of like pen pals. I lived in Brooklyn and he lived in Queens, but I was gone back home to North Carolina for part of those nine months. When I got back, he come over one day to hang out and watch a movie or something and we totally hit it off immediately. I mean, the fact that he even wanted to stay when I met him for the first time on the stoop of my building in Mario pajamas and slippers while I was playing my PSP, clearly it was meant to be. We both had awkward roommate situations, and after a few weeks I was pretty much just not going home anymore. So I officially moved in after about six months. After a year and a half, we decided to move down to Georgia and we've never looked back. We own a condo now, we've got dogs together, side by side computers where we play World of Warcraft together, it's kind of gross. And just about a month or so ago we decided to fly up to Maryland where his family lives and get married, and then come back down here and have a huge party/reception with all our friends at Jungle. My good friend Edie Cheezburger (from The Other Show) is going to be my best ladyman at the party.

Philip McAdoo & Sean Cavanaugh We always knew we wanted to be parents. It was one of the things that we talked about early on in our relationship. So much so that it would have been a deal breaker if either of us did not want a child. And now, we have a family. We are parents who struggle to plan weekends, playdates, summer camps, HIDE THE ELF, and try to figure out what to cook and how to cook it and find time to eat dinner every night together. Our life is about the unexpected joy in retelling the little white lies our parents told us and doing things that we swore we would never do to our kids, like the shameful ode to the flatulence of our fathers, who somehow thought it was both moving and amusing to let a “good one” rip and blame it on a child. The horror and disgust on a child’s face can melt a father’s heart, the true test of the depth of the father/ son bond. It all drives us crazy and we love it. And yet, between the nervous outbreaks of laughter, we struggle to get it right. We often wonder if we’ll be able to measure up to creating a loving environment for a little boy who has rarely experienced love in his short life. And then we meet other parents, biological parents, single parents, straight parents, gay parents, families in all forms and they share with us the same stories, fears and concerns as they laugh and welcome us to parenthood … and it all begins to make sense. We are letting this little boy guide us through this process and trying to shelter him from the concerns we have over whether or not we are legally a family in the eyes of the law. It will be 10 years in October and we feel valued and validated, not over a piece of paper or a law, but because every morning we wake up to the sound of a happy and joyful little boy who demands that we be at our best.

52 : June 6, 2013


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YOUR gUIdE TO gaY aTlaNTa

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05.17.2013 • Jungle

Lost-n-Found, Atlanta’s only nonprofit organization that provides housing for homeless LGbT youth, made some big announcements about its future plans.

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Eats MIdTOWN 1. TWO URBaN lICkS – $$$ 820 Ralph McGill Blvd. NE 30306 2. EINSTEIN’S – $$ 1077 Juniper St. NE 30309 3. lOCa lUNa – $$ 550-C Amsterdam Ave.. NE 30306 4. CaMpagNOlO – $$ 980 Piedmont Ave. NE 30309 5. ESCORpION – $$ 800 Peachtree St. NE 30308 6. ONE MIdTOWN kITCHEN – $$ 559 Dutch Valley Rd. NE 30324 7. METROFRESH – $ 931 Monroe Dr. NE 30308 8. JOE’S ON JUNIpER – $ 1049 Juniper St. 30309 9. ZOCalO – $ 187 10th St. NE 30309 10. gIlBERT’S – $$ 219 10th St. NE 30309 11. apRÈS dIEM – $$ 931 Monroe Dr. NE 30308 12. HOBNOB – $ 1551 Piedmont Ave. NE 30324 13. THE NOOk – $ 1144 Piedmont Ave. NE 30309 14. THE FIFTH IVORY – $$ 794 Juniper St. 30308 15. EaTS – $ 600 Ponce de Leon Ave. NE 30308 16. F.R.O.g.S. CaNTINa – $ 931 Monroe Cir. NE 30308 17. BURkHaRT’S pUB – $ 1492 Piedmont Ave. NE 30324

EaST aTlaNTa 19. THE EaRl – $ 488 Flat Shoals Ave. SE 30316 20. THE glENWOOd – $ 1263 Glenwood Ave. SE 30316 21. THE gRaVEYaRd – $ 1245 Glenwood Ave. SE 30316 CaBBagETOWN 22. agaVE – $$ 242 Boulevard SE 30312 23. SERpaS – $$$ 659 Auburn Ave. NE 30312 CHESHIRE BRIdgE 24. laS MaRgaRITaS – $ 1842 Cheshire Bridge Rd. 30324 25. ROXX – $ Cheshire Bridge Rd. 30324 26. COWTIppERS – $$ 1600 Piedmont Rd. 30324 27. gINO’S pIZZa – $ 1740 Cheshire Bridge Rd. NE

STRIp ClUBS 25. SWINgINg RICHaRd’S – (All Nude) 1400 Northside Dr. NW 30318 26. BlISS – (All Nude) 2284 Cheshire Bridge Rd. 30324 27. BJ ROOSTER’S – Private dances encouraged. 2043 Cheshire Bridge Rd. 30324

places ClUBS/BaRS 1. aMSTERd.aM – 502-A Amsterdam Ave. NE 30306 2. aTlaNTa EaglE – 306 Ponce de Leon Ave. 30308 3. HERETIC – 2069 Cheshire Bridge Rd. 30324 4. JUNglE – 2115 Faulkner Rd. NE 30324 5. MIXX – 1492 Piedmont Ave. NE 30309 6. BlakE’S – 227 10th St. NE 30309 7. 10TH & pIEdMONT – 991 Piedmont Ave. NE 30309

MaRTa STaTIONS

EaST aTlaNTa

pRIVaTE MalE ClUBS & SpaaaHS… 28. FlEX – 76 4th St. NW 30308 29. MaNIFEST 4 U– 2103 Faulkner Rd. NE 30324 30. THE dEN – 2135 Liddell Dr. 30324 31. EROS – 2219 Faulkner Rd. NE 30324

CaBBagETOWN Old 4TH WaRd pIEdMONT paRk

14

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Renovations & Handyman Services

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CALENDAR OF EvENTS

6 .6 .1 3 TO

6.19.13

EMAIL US EvENTS AT

CULTURALPICKS

Calendar@fenuxe.com

06.20.2013 ART OFFICIAL: POP-UP ART GALLERY THE W ATLANTA - LIVING ROOM, 9 P.M. - 3 A.M.

Atlanta native and Cube Gallery Owner, Emer Reilly, debuts his new collection of work, “Cityscapes” in June’s Art Official. Chris Hobes, of Artistic Revolution, will present a live painting session and DJ Jay Envy will be providing music.

06.09.2013 ForEVEr 69 JUNGLE 7 P.M.

A benefit event that celebrates Peter Rauhofer’s life and music, all covers will be donated to the Atlanta Cancer Society. Having won a Grammy in 2000 for Best Remixer of the Year for his remix of Cher’s “Believe,” his legacy is strong and the music will be great. Grab some friends and dance the night away!

06.14-15.2013 2013 COCA-COLA SUMMER FILM FESTIVAL FOX THEATRE

A weekend full of movies is always ideal, so why not do it on the 58-feet-wide big screen at the Fox Theatre? This weekend features “Raiders of the Lost Ark,” “Saturday Morning Cartoons,” and “Oz the Great and the Powerful.” Tickets are $10 for adults and $5 for seniors and children under 12. Tickets and showtimes are available at FoxTheatre.org. 06.08-09.2013 PEACHTREE HILLS FESTIVAL OF THE ARTS PEACHTREE HILLS RECREATION CENTER

A festival with the goal to give back to the community, it benefits a scholarship fund for local artists administered by the Georgia Foundation for Public Spaces. With no admission fees, the festival starts off with a 5K walk. Festival hours are 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. on Saturday, and 11 a.m. - 6 p.m. on Sunday.

COMMUNITYPICKS 06.13.2013 TAKE A SECOND FOR EQUALITY 866 WEST PEACHTREE ST., 6:30-8:30 P.M.

Join the Atlanta chapter of the Human Rights Campaign as they host their “Take a Second for Equality” mixer for activists and the community. This event is held on the second Thursday of each month.

03.01.2013 06.14-16.2013 UNCENsorEd WitH PEACH PArtY dEstiNY BrooKs AtLANtA LEBUZZ 11 P.M. VARIOUS LOCATIONS

There’s a new TV variety series in town Join the circuit party that is as juicy and LeBuzz is filming it all. “Less Drag, as the Peach State itself, spanning More Variety” is a promise. If you spy the the weekend over four venues, with ad making its way around Facebook, you’ll six DJs, and drag queens Phoenix know you’re in for something risque and and Evah Destruction. Get tickets at never seen before. PeachPartyATL.com.

58 : June 6, 2013

06.9.2013 & 06.16.2013 UNITED 4 SAFETY YOGA CLASS NIRVANA YOGA STUDIO 4-5 P.M.

End your weekend on a relaxing note in the quaint Cabbagetown community. The class is only $5 and all proceeds will benefit United 4 Safety, who work to end partner violence within the LGBT community. 06.08.2013 CIRQUE DE NUIT DELTA HERITAGE MUSEUM 7 P.M. - 1 A.M.

Atlanta Cotillion is hosting their avant-garde ball that benefits AID Atlanta, having already donated more than $1.2 million over the past 11 years. There will be a complimentary bar, DJs, blackjack tables, a silent auction, and French circus entertainment! For tickets, visit AtlantaCotillion.com/cirque.



WHorosCoPEs : 6/6 - 6/19

FENUXE

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What state with marriage equality should you tie the knot in?

GemIni [MaY 21 – JUN. 22]

Ocean Beach Park in Connecticut, with its gorgeous forests and relaxing shores, provides the Twins with the dual elements they desire for a beautiful wedding.

CANCER [JUN. 21 – JUl. 22]

Intimate, beachy, Rhode Island (the “Ocean State”) is a beautiful place for making it official as waves rush the shore of Mansion Beach behind the Crab and his soon-to-be.

LEO [JUl. 23 – aUg. 22]

It’s technically not a state, but Washington D.C.’s atmosphere of making things happen (sometimes) means a fierce wedding with a historic backdrop.

virgo [aUg. 23 – SEpT. 22] Seabrook, New Hampshire isn’t the most popular place to visit. Good. A Virgo can appreciate the peace, quiet, and fresh seafood at the reception.

Your new life together starts now. Protect each other from this day forward. Get the life insurance that’s right for you. We put the life back in life insurance

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libra [SEpT. 23 – OCT. 22]

Full of wilderness, Maryland is where an air sign can flourish. Chesapeake Beach is a classy, elegant place to say “I do” with your toes in the sand.

scorpio [OCT. 23 – NOV. 22]

“All I could see from where I stood, was three long mountains and a wood. I turned and looked the other way and saw three islands in a bay.” Marry in poetic Maine, intense Scorpio.

SAGITTARIUS [NOV. 23 – dEC. 21]

New York can be as fast as you like it, or as slow as you need it to be — just like you. Say “I do” in Albany, then party down in NYC.

Capricorn [dEC. 22 – JaN. 19]

Seattle, Washington’s Pacific Northwest backdrop provides the perfect getaway that’s just as hip as you are.

AQUARIUS [JaN. 20 – FEB. 18] Cleo Meyer, Agent 1776 Peachtree St NE Atlanta, GA 30309 Bus: 404-817-0960 cleo.meyer.mdhi@statefarm.com

Boston, Massachusetts is a happening spot for your brainy little Aquarius who loves the idea of marrying in the first U.S. state to legalize it.

PISCES [FEB. 19 – MaR. 20]

Vermont’s world-class skiing and rolling hills satisfy the childlike nature of the Pisces, who marries love and adventure better than most.

ARIES [MaR. 21 – apR. 19]

Delaware’s Rehoboth Beach boasts a five-star water quality rating, so marrying among the waves signifies the fresh, clean start to your “just married” life.

Taurus [apR. 20 – MaY 20]

State Farm Mutual Automobile Insurance Company Bloomington, IL 1101399.1

What’s in Iowa? Your beautiful ceremony that takes place before the roaring waterfalls of gorgeous, pristine Cedar Falls. That’s what.


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Holler Poodles!! Lets face it everyone, gay marriage in one form or another is inevitable! What does that mean for us here in Georgia? A big ol gay time! Be assured, there will always be narrow minded individuals who will try to impede on others rights and happiness. However, once they see the revenue generated by the industry, hopefully, they may take pause.

Love and lashes, MEP

What does this mean for me you ask? Seeing how you have to have a relationship to get married, it may be a little while. But thankfully, I’ve been asked to officiate quite a few ceremonies over the years. Yes, gurls, hold onto your panties--my official title is Rev. Dr. Mary Edith Pitts, Ed.D, DDS & DMV. I was ordained by the First Church on the Big Rock Educational Dental and Drunk Driving School. I kid. But I really do have a certificate to perform weddings in the state of Georgia and I bet you’ll be surprised to know it is recognized by county clerks. Keep me in mind for the future poodles. One day soon, it may be legal for everyone to marry who they love.

Mary Edith Pitts If you have any questions, comments or feedback, please contact me at maryedith99@gmail.com

Following up on the next makeup tip/trick, here are a few more ideas. After blending your foundation flawlessly with either a sponge or brush, you must powder it down to “set” it. Once you do this, your foundation will not move. I use a brush to apply powder when I’m on set but I find a powder puff works better for drag makeup since you need to pounce the powder into the foundation. Atlanta Costume has two brands of powder I use: Ben Nye Translucent Face Powder in fair (very cost effective if you buy it in the big tub) and the more expensive Ben Nye Luxury Powder which if micro milled and feels like silk going on your face. I usually use two colors of powder, a base color and a highlighter color. If you are unsure, ask the professionals at Atlanta Costume for help. They are well versed in drag makeup. P.S. Be sure to check me and the other entertainers out at The East Point Possums show June 15th @ 7pm. For more information, go to eastpointpossums.com 62 : June 6, 2013

Photos by Norcostco Atlanta Costume


yoga 路 pilates 路 TRX

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PET COTILLION 05.19.2013 • Piedmont Bark

Pet parents got together to benefit Pets Are Loving Support (PALS) and show off their fur children’s zeal for spring fashion. The event raised $16,000 for PALS.

Sponsored by:

2012

Trial Lawyers Aggressively Representing Families in Our LGBT Community

RANDY E. FRY EXPERIENCED TRIAL LAWYER-PERSONAL INJURY

Serving all of Georgia Automobile collisions tractor-trailer wrecks motorcycle collisions slip/fall On-The-Job-Injuries Wrongful Death All Personal Injuries medical bills lost wages pain/suffering

the

Fry Law Firm

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404.969.1284

1401 Peachtree Street, N.E. | Suite 500 Atlanta, Ga 30309 www.thefrylawfirm.com Convenient Midtown Location (one block from Marta Arts Center station) Hablamos Español

64 : June 6, 2013


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AIDS VACCINE 200 05.18-19.2013 • Emory School of Medicine Action Cycling Atlanta’s AIDS vaccine 200 started Saturday and ended Sunday after a 200 mile ride through Georgia. All of the funds collected during the event go to the Emory vaccine Center.

Sponsored by:

66 : June 6, 2013


theGAGE Law Firm

Atlanta’s LGBT Lawyer

DUI Drug Possession Felonies Misdemeanors

678 954 5730

160 Clairemont Ave., Suite 200 Decatur, Georgia 30030 S. Derek Gage Attorney at Law

67 : June 6, 2013

www.thegagefirm.com

FENUXE.COM : 67


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BARKS, BEERS & BEETHOVEN 05.17.2013 • Piedmont Park

Dog lovers gathered with their furry friends in the park to enjoy a few brews while listening to the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra perform on the promenade.

Sponsored by:

Ansley Eye Care

404.888.9444 | www.ansleyeyecare.com

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2012

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68 : June 6, 2013



FENUXE OUTPHOTOS

after dark

THE ARMORETTES’ MEMORIAL DAY TRIBUTE 05.26.2013 • Burkharts

The lovely ladies of The Armorettes showed off their patriotic glam with a special Memorial Day Tribute Sunday night.

Sponsored by:

70 : June 6, 2013


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Family. Friends. Community. Carson Cowan, Agent Bus: 770-864-5840 carson@carsoncowan.com carsoncowan.com

We’re all in this together. State Farm® has a long tradition of being there. That’s one reason why I’m proud to support our community. Get to a better State®.

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MENTAL Health Checkups Sherry A. Meltz, PsyD Licensed Professional Counselor n

Depression, anxiety and issues related to addiction

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Primary care & HIV physician services Full-service retail pharmacy open to the public Proudly serving the LGBTQ community for 18 years

Pride Medical, Inc.

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Pride Medical provides state-of-the-art comprehensive quality medical care in a multidisciplinary environment. Also: FREE ANONYMOUS HIV TESTING, On-site Infusion therapy.

2012

3 Best Pharmacy q 3 Best Primary Care q

404.355.3788 | 3280 Howell Mill Road | Suite 326 | Atlanta | www.PrideMedical.com 72 : June 6, 2013



Young, Hot, and Fabulous at

Fountain of Youth, MD Eugene Salas, Editorial Intern

With work keeping us busy, we don't always have time to pamper ourselves. Throw a wedding on top of that, and you’re scrambling to look your best. A visit to Fountain of Youth, MD, will keep you looking radiant and feeling relaxed. City pollution and sun damage takes a toll on our skin, causing it to age and lose its luminosity, but a glowing newlywed deserves to be the center of attention. With facials,

chemical peels, skin tightening, Botox, and laser hair removal, you can. Chemical peels help to not only reverse this damage, but also leave your skin bright and youthful. Wedding jitters and little annoyances can add up to create big stresses that are hard to relieve. Fountain of Youth also offers a variety of stress and pain relief. With chiropractors, acupuncture, and massages, those sore muscles can relax and once again feel at ease.

Win

ner

Worried about looking your absolute best in your wedding or engagement photos? Fountain of Youth has three diet programs to aid weight loss. Lipotropic injections, which use natural ingredients, increase your liver and gallbladder’s role in decreasing fat deposits, and speed up the removal of fat. Their Phentermine Diet program uses phentermine hydrochloride, an appetite suppressant. When used in combination with diet and exercise, it’s a great weight loss tool. Their third option, the HCG diet, works against your body’s tendency to store fat in the case of starvation. The program follows a strict meal structure and focuses on healthy foods to prevent weight gain and encourage the burning of fat. If you want a beautiful spring wedding minus the hay fever, Fountain of Youth also offers allergy immunotherapy and testing. Immunotherapy is also referred to as “allergy shots” and work much like a vaccine. It builds up the body’s tolerance to the offending allergen, reducing symptoms up to 85 percent.

For more information and pricing, visit their website at fountainmd.com or call at (404) 382-9227.

of Best Chiropractic Cen ter

• Corrective & Wellness Care • On-Site Digital X-Ray • Gay Owned and Operated Since 1999 • Free chair massage available and private massage studio • Great Adjustments

2012

1035 Juniper Street Across from Joe’s and the Loews Hotel

www.LiveWellChiropractic.com Scan this code with your smartphone to book your appointment today!

74 : June 6, 2013


PRIDEAUGUSTA.ORG

June 21-23 fri, JUNE 21st beats on broad, Augusta’s largest outdoor dance party with Savannah’s dj kaos at the augusta common sat, JUNE 22nd Augusta Pride parade on broad st. from 10-11am sat, JUNE 22nd Pride festival From 11am-5pm with chaD michaels, thea austin, & frenchie DAvis

FUNDED IN PART BY A GRANT FROM THE CITY OF AUGUSTA AND THE AUGUSTA CONVENTION AND VISITORS BUREAU



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