Fenuxe Magazine - Restaurant Roundup by Fenuxe Magazine Management

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FENUXE 4.5.2012 Welcome to our annual Food Issue! Without a doubt, whatever your origin, it can be said food brings family together. Gathering for meals is human nature, and no matter what your background, you’ve experienced the warm welcome a dinner table brings. In the gay community we have our own unique gathering at the dinner table. Oftentimes our core group of close friends becomes our “family” and a local pub or grill becomes our dinner table. There is nothing more pleasant than a patio full of gay patrons on a sunny spring day. Laughter and lighthearted playfulness spread throughout the surroundings. It is truly family time. So what better way to celebrate food in our own community than to provide an in-depth restaurant roundup? Inside these pages you’ll find our picks for some of the best and freshest dining establishments in Atlanta. We offer ten picks which vary based on factors like price and ambiance. Locations are diverse as well, because we know not every gay person lives in Midtown. Though they may differ in certain ways, they have one thing in common––they are here to serve our community. So, grab your group and try out some of these sizzling establishments for your next dining excursion.

Tyler Calkins Publisher

William Duﬀee-Braun editor-in-chief

editorial Shannon Jenkins

associate writer: LIfestyle & culture

shannon@fenuxe.com Ryan Lee

associate writer: news & current events

ryan@fenuxe.com

Kelley Pounders Lucy Dixon Dino Thompson-Sarmiento Sam Peng contributing writers

aRT Josh Murtha

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atlanta marketing Jim Balarillo jim@fenuxe.com Nicholas D. Jacobs nicholas@fenuxe.com Solutions consultants

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FENUXE 4.5.2012 18

Armorettes

46 22

Restaurant Roundup

F.E.N.U.X.E

Dressing Ghosts

22 FASHION DRESSING GHOSTS 24 EVENTS DISHING ON DOGWOOD 26 NIGHTLIFE HELLO SPRING 28 URBAN CULTURE TEACH A MAN TO COOK 30 X-PLORE PIPING HOT PRIDE 32 EATS RESTAURANT ROUNDUP

ESSENTIALS Shining Star

FEATURES 18 EASTER EXTRAVAGANZA WITH THE ARMORETTES 44 ABOUT THE COVER JOSHUA JOHN RUSSELL 46 SHINING STAR P.A.L.S. MAKES THE DIFFERENCE

14 50 54 59 60 62 64 66 67 68 70

Trending Calendar Ask Mary

ULTRA Gay Atlanta Map Weekly Line-Up Parties/Events Hey Girl Hey Horoscopes Fenuxe Forager OUT Photos

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HERE’S A ROUNDUP OF THE HOTTEST GAY NEWS ITEMS. FOR REPORTING ON LOCAL, NATIONAL AND INTERNATIONAL LGBT HAPPENINGS, VISIT WWW.FENUXE.COM SEVERAL TIMES A DAY WAN: IT’S ‘SILLY’ FOR ATL BARS TO CLOSE SO EARLY

There is little chance that Atlanta will return to its 4 a.m. closing times for bars and nightclubs, gay city councilman Alex Wan told a group of gay business leaders at a recent meeting at Mixx. “This is where the neighborhoods are very well organized and know how to raise enough objections on the right issues to prevent that from happening,” Wan said. “What they’re going to play is the public safety situation, and that extending the bar hours can only make the crime worse. It does seem kind of silly that an international city would not have extended bar hours.” MADONNA FLEXES HER ‘FREEDOM FIGHTER’ MUSCLES

Despite a new law prohibiting “promoting” homosexuality in the Russian territory of St. Petersburg, Madonna said she plans to support her gay fans from the stage during her Aug. 9 show there. “I’m a freedom fighter,” Madonna wrote to her fans. “I will speak during my show about this ridiculous atrocity.” GAY-FRIENDLY PROM GESTURE LEADS TO LAWSUIT

A federal lawsuit accuses Alpharetta High School administrators of firing the student body president for attempting to change the Prom King & Queen tradition to the Prom Court in order to make it more inclusive for LGBT students. Former student body president Reuben Lack, who was axed by faculty advisers in February, believes his termination violated his first amendment rights. OBAMA TO ENDORSE SAME-SEX MARRIAGE??

A groundswell of support for gay marriage among Democratic leaders has led to much chatter about whether President Barack Obama will endorse same-sex marriage before the November election. There is expected to be a pitched battle over the issue at Obama’s re-election convention in September, stemming from a push to get Democrats to add a plank supporting marriage equality to their party platform. SCANDALOUS ANTI-GAY STRATEGY EXPOSED

A confidential memo prepared by the the National Organization for Marriage reveals that the right wing organization attempted to stoke animosity between gay people and ethnic minorities, encouraged its donors to partake in a form of political money laundering, and attempted to dupe voters into opposing same-sex marriage by distracting them with “side issues” such as pornography and protecting children. The document also revealed that Sen. Rick Santorum served as the “face” of NOM, appearing in e-mail and direct mail campaigns, and lending his voice to NOM robocalls.

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INTERVIEW

EASTER

The Armorettes’ annual holiday tradition continues with the Drag Races

EXTRAVAGANZA Shannon Jenkins, Associate Writer, Lifestyle & Culture

Long before RuPaul’s hit show, the Armorettes were running their very own Drag Races. Held every Easter Sunday in the parking lot of Burkhart’s Pub, the popular event draws hundreds of people while raising money for a worthy cause. The Drag Races began sometime after the Armorettes were formed in 1979. So far, the best guess is 1982. They may not remember exactly when the races started, but the Armorettes sure know how to throw a good time. I had the pleasure of talking with three of the campy entertainers one evening at Roxx, and Ally Yankadic, Sofonda Cox and Princess Alberta Bananahammock certainly kept me entertained. Here’s how it all went down: Shannon: So, tell me about the Drag Races. Sofonda: It’s the biggest event we have every year. There’s a mix of drag and festival-like games. People wear elaborate bonnets they’ve made. The Drag Races come from our main event which is a relay race where you dress up in drag. The winner of the Drag Races gets the option to perform with us that night. Ally: The way the Drag Races work is you start at the starting line, you run to one end of the parking lot and you put on a dress. Then you run back to the other end of the parking lot and you put on makeup and you run back to the other end of the parking lot and you put on a bra. Then you run back and put on high heels and walk like a lady across the finish line. The crowd really gets into watching everyone

18 : APRIL 5, 2012

running back and forth. Last year one of the games was Snap Your Wiener where we took a string, tied a Vienna sausage to it and you had to lower it from your belt buckle and squat down and get a mouse trap to snap on your sausage. Sofonda: My personal favorite game is Hide the Easter Eggs on the Drag Queen. The contestants are blindfolded and have to search our bodies to find the Easter eggs. There’s always a chocolate egg they have to find and that’s the winner. Shannon: How did the Races get started? Alberta: They started at the Armory but I don’t know what the story behind it is.

INTERVIEW Ally: It just seemed like a good day to get drunk.

dollars makes a difference!

Shannon: Alberta, you won last year’s Races. What prompted you to participate?

Sofonda: You think you must be wrong and you start digging through your titties and you still don’t have any more money.

Alberta: I just wanted to get out there and have as much fun as I could. When they said the person who won could perform with the Armorettes I was all over it. I wasn’t going to let anyone beat me. Sofonda: We almost sent him back for not walking like a lady. Alberta: I did walk like a lady! Ally: He was the only one who did walk like a lady. Sofonda: He tried to walk like a lady. Alberta: Well, I’m not very ladylike. Ally: He walked. The others just took off running. Alberta: I’m not very fishy. Shannon: It must be all that body hair. So what does it feel like to help out local charities? Ally: That’s the thing. You get to see how much it means to those charities. Sometimes you give them a check that makes their budget for the year. It’s the shortfall they were looking for and allows them to stay open and do business for another year. It’s an honor to be able to help these charities, even if it’s one dollar at a time. We’ve had some numbers where we only got a buck or two. Alberta: You come back with three dollars and you think, “Wow, I thought that was a funny number.” Ally: Three

Alberta: It’s in there somewhere. Ally: So, it really is a joy to experience. Alberta: Digging through your titties. Sofonda: Some don’t have titties. Alberta: They get caught in my chest hair. Shannon: I can imagine. So, how much money do you usually raise? Ally: Usually the combination of events raises at least $1,500. In past years I’ve heard of numbers much bigger and better in a better economy but we’re just happy to get whatever people can donate. Sofonda: And honestly the only time we make money for the cause is when we’re performing the numbers. Easter is a little more about us giving back to the people who support us all the time. It’s more about the games. Alberta: It’s like customer appreciation day. Sofonda: Yeah, so it’s not as much about the bucket at Easter. We don’t charge for anyone to play the games. It’s more about camaraderie and getting to know the Armorettes. Shannon: What does it mean to be an Armorette? Ally: We don’t approach drag the way you expect traditional drag to be done. This is camp. You’re coming to a comedy show. Some of us look glamorous. Some of us still have our beards. But all of us are there to entertain. It’s all about us doing the job and trying to raise money for HIV and AIDS awareness and to find a cure for this horrible disease that has haunted the community for so long. We will make a difference. Sofonda: And almost every Armorette agrees that if there was a cure tomorrow some of us would burn our bras and dresses and be done. That’s why we do it. See how these queens joined The Armorettes in the online version of this story.

Drag Races When: April 8 with registration beginning at 2PM Where: Burkhart’s Pub Also: Underwear Fashion Show at 7:30PM

FENUXE.COM : 19

CRIB CHATTER Making Home Ownership A Zipity Duda day!

Ah, al fresco spring Sunday afternoon drinks with friends and what a fun time of year to be a real estate celebrity and to get chatted up about the market! Is it just me or does it seem like EVERYONE wants to know the answer to 4 questions: Where are the best real estate investment deals in Atlanta? How do I get out of my upside down mortgage? How do I move in with my dream boat? And has the market really hit bottom? I just got one of my listings under contract at full asking price in less than 72 hours of putting a sign in the yard and boy was it fun to watch my seller’s eyeballs pop out of their sockets when I presented them an offer! Hopefully some of what I share will benefit ya’ll as much as it does my clients! Listing Secrets – Do Ask…Do Tell: My sellers and I visit the comparable homes on the market within 1 mile of the home being sold right before setting the price. This is THE best way to know the competition. Sellers are usually shocked at how much more or less their home should be priced compared to others on the market by doing this. In addition, I review the FMLS Absorption Report with clients before setting a price (if you haven’t seen this report, ask me for one, it’s an incredibly under-utilized pricing tool). This report shows the months of inventory left to be sold by price range, area and average days on market for sales. Determining the right price is critical to attract as many buyers as possible. Listing a home at $317.5k is a bad idea because buyers shop in $25k ranges at this price point. If the recent sales comps in the past 90 days support it, price it at $325k to pull buyers in a $50k range (i.e. $300k to $325k and $325k to $350k). Price it to sell in 21 days or it is going to sit for a LONG time. An aggressive initial price should generate multiple offers that can be negotiated up and against each other often yielding the seller a higher price and more kaching!

Buyers Don’t Believe It …Just Because You See it: I receive scores of property availability inquiries daily from Trulia, eBay, Craigslist and Zillow. Ninety percent of the time, I have to tell buyers the property is under contract. I offer my condolences and ask them not to cry in their Cheerios because I have a solution to get that dream home and beat other buyers to the best deals. The aforementioned websites are great tools to begin the self-education process about the market but the consumer is not connected to live inventory and much of the history data is six months old or more. Some ads don’t expire for 90 days or longer so that’s why buyers often see the same listings over and over. I give my clients access to their fully customizable Listingbook® account (updated every 30 minutes) giving them access to all active listings and real time market data including home values and reports on all properties, under contract listings, price changes and solds. I have had properties under contract within hours of coming back on the market and even before photos were uploaded on new listings because my clients had the Listingbook® advantage, wouldn’t you like to be another success story? Mortgage Minute… Oh Snap: “The real estate community knew it was only a matter of time until FHA would make drastic changes to its fee structure. Effective April 1, 2012 the up-front mortgage insurance premium increases from 1.0% to 1.75%. The monthly MIP (mortgage insurance premium) will go from 1.15 to 1.25%” stated Kim Arrington with Equity Loans. What this means is FHA financing is becoming more expensive and buyers need to meet tougher underwriting conditions. If you are a buyer needing to use an FHA backed mortgage may qualify for less home now than you thought. HUD has to increase its reserves and that is why they are increasing the upfront MIP. The reason is they are increasing the monthly revenues to strengthen the Mutual Mortgage Insurance Fund. Like us on Facebook or Twitter for my updates and register on ZipityDuda.com for your FREE customizable home search accessing active listing inventory updated every 30 minutes! Or attend one of our upcoming Home Buyer Seminars.

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DrESSing ghOStS Costume Designer Sews on the Dark Side

Shannon Jenkins, Associate Writer, Lifestyle & Culture

f it weren’t for people like Susan Mickey, actors would be forced to do their jobs in the buff. Fortunately for them, the Austin costume designer makes it her business to cover up their business.

Sketches of costumes for Andy (left) and Jack (right), the dead brothers.

In 1979, Susan designed her first professional show, and her work has been seen in television, film and print ever since. One of her favorite jobs starred Alfre Woodward and Laurence Fishburne. “I loved working on ‘Miss Evers’ Boys’ for HBO,” she said. “It was a wonderful cast and a remarkably talented group of people.” Another favorite design gig includes her “long relationship with The Oregon Shakespeare Festival doing everything from new plays with living playwrights to a very seldom seen production of ‘Henry VIII’ in all of its Tudor splendor.” Her talent has carried her all across the country, and she is certainly no stranger to Atlanta. Beginning this month, her work with the “Ghost Brothers of Darkland County” will mark her 58th creative endeavor with the Alliance Theatre. Her first design gig with the Atlanta theater was in 1982 for the production “Billy Bishop Goes to War.” Returning to the Alliance was a simple decision. “I was asked to design the play by Susan Booth,” she said. “She is one of my favorite directors and collaborators, so I immediately said ‘yes.’” For this particular show, Susan (the costumer, not the director) had the task of helping bring to life a ghost story created through the collaboration of American icons John Mellencamp and Stephen King. Set in a small Mississippi town, “Darkland County” follows the story of two brothers and a young girl who died tragically in 1967. The events of that night became a local legend over the next forty years, but one character knows the truth, which could potentially help save his own troubled sons. To find inspiration for her designs, Susan took a straightforward approach. “We used a lot of Robert Frank photography and many research photos of small town America from 1940 to the present,” she said. “I also ordered 1967 high school yearbooks from small Mississippi towns on E-bay to really capture that moment in time.” 22 : APRIL 5, 2012

Susan described the style of clothing for the show as a “very American culture aesthetic with a worn edge of textural memory.” “I really love the simple white (aged) T-shirts and jeans that have the perfect fit and cut for the actor,” she said. “The most successful costumes are not the flashy ones but the ones that are perfect for the character being played and the story being told. If I cannot imagine the actor/character in anything else but what they have on...then that is my favorite costume.” See more sketches at fenuxe.com. Ghost Brothers of Darkland County Where: Alliance Theatre When: April 4-May 13 Details: alliancetheatre.org

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EVENTS

DiShing On D O gWO O D W

Shannon Jenkins, Associate Writer, Lifestyle & Culture

hen it comes to any given arts event, it’s safe to say at least one member of the LGBT community is involved. We realize we’re being presumptuous, but we truly believe even in the deepest depths of the Bible Belt there’s a closeted gay bringing art to his or her corner of the world. Although very open about its gayness, Atlanta is no different. Just take the Dogwood Festival for example. On the board sits Chairman Jamie Ensley, the first openly gay chairman in the festival’s long history. And just so you know, the festival celebrates its 76th anniversary this year with the April 20-22 event.

“We have about 1,100 artists apply for booths every year,” Jamie said. “We can only pick about 265, so we have a different panel every year that judges the artwork and selects which artists can show at the festival. That’s why our fine arts work is such high quality.” In addition to the art booths, the festival also features food, music and, after last year, rides. A concert is also planned this year, with the legendary Roberta Flack as the headliner. Although he did confirm there will be rides again this year, Jamie kept the specifics under wraps.

Jamie, who has served on the board for the past six years, eagerly shared some interesting facts about the festival. “It’s actually the third oldest fine arts festival— and one of the largest—in the United States,” he said. “It’s something for all of us Atlantans to be proud of.” Not only is it a monumental event, it’s a diverse one as well. Representatives from about 20 countries participate in the festival each year, he said. That should come as no surprise considering the number of people involved on an annual basis. About 250,000 people visited the festival last year, and between 250,000 and 275,000 are expected this year. With that many patrons walking the paths of Piedmont Park, it takes a healthy number of vendors, volunteers and artists to cater to them. Jamie said it takes about 500 people to make the festival a reality. Of course, quite a few artists make up the number of those people who make it possible. 24 : APRIL MARCH 5, 22, 2012 2012

“We had the Ferris wheel from the Seattle World Fair last year; it is the largest portable Ferris wheel in the world,” he said. “We’re not going to have that this year but we’re going to have some additional rides. We haven’t announced them yet but they’re going to be spectacular.” That’s what we call a “tease.” You’ll just have to attend the festival to check out the undisclosed rides. And you’ll enjoy the art and music anyway. You know, because you’re gay. There we go being presumptuous again.

76th Annual Dogwood Festival When: April 20-22 Where: Piedmont Park Details: www.dogwood.org

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HELLO SPRING S

Shannon Jenkins, Associate Writer, Lifestyle & Culture

pring always announces its arrival in Atlanta with a generous explosion of pollen and the annual Change of Seasons Tea Dance. Unlike the dreaded yellow invasion, the Joining Hearts event won’t wreck your sinuses, and it’s been a highly anticipated gathering for many years.

“The history of Change of Seasons originated in the mid 1990’s by Mike Mazer, Glenn Kinnard and a few others within the community who wanted to create a weekend event here in Atlanta to celebrate the arrival of spring and mirror the White Party in Palm Springs,” said Kerry Loftis, president of Joining Hearts. “Change of Seasons drew visitors from several surrounding states and many annual party goers viewed the weekend as the kick-off to their upcoming summer season.”

With Joining Hearts celebrating its 25th anniversary this year, Kerry said the organization’s board has set a lofty donation goal of $250,000 for the year.

Unfortunately, the spring shindig came to an end after 2000. Then in April 2009, Joining Hearts resurrected Change of Seasons as a Sunday tea dance and fundraiser in an effort to kick off the spring season for the LGBT community while benefiting a worthy cause.

With a large attendance in mind, Joining Hearts once again chose The Georgian Terrace as its venue.

As one of the organization’s six annual fundraisers, money raised through Change of Seasons helps provide housing support to people living with HIV and AIDS in Atlanta. Proceeds from this event will benefit AID Atlanta and Jerusalem House. “Last year we had an overwhelming response with approximately 400 guests in attendance, and we raised just over $8,000,” Kerry said.

“In order for us to hit that goal, every donation dollar is critical this year,” Kerry said. “With Change of Seasons being our third largest fundraiser, we are hoping to increase attendance and our donation amount from this event by at least 30 percent over last year.”

“The bright open space of the grand ball room and outdoor terraces create a great backdrop for a spring time tea dance in Atlanta,” Kerry said. “Probably the most critical reason for choosing Georgian Terrace again is due to the fact that Joining Hearts events continue to grow each year in size and attendance. The growth is incredible, but it creates a challenge for us to find an event space in Midtown that can hold the number of guests that attend our events plus remain within budget for each event.” In addition to the elegant setting, Change of Seasons will also feature DJs Vicki Powell and Mike Pope, a cash bar and drink specials.

Joining Hearts presents Change of Seasons Tea Dance When: Sunday, April 15, from 4 to 9 p.m. Where: The Georgian Terrace Hotel, 659 Peachtree St. Tickets: $20 online until April 14 or $25 at the door

26 24::APRIL MARCH 5, 2012 8, 2012

URBAN CULTURE

Teach a Man Gay Chef branches out on his own with private cooking lessons

to Cook

Shannon Jenkins, Associate Writer, Lifestyle & Culture Until he was 30, Patric Bell didn’t know people could go to culinary school. His Tennessee high school wasn’t exactly crawling with cuisine recruiters. No, his discovery of food’s higher education occurred via the Food Network. Although he had worked off and on within the industry for years, Patric found himself fascinated with reality stars’ culinary backgrounds. He called the Art Institute in Dunwoody and the following Friday he had been accepted.

coincidentally met his partner of two years, Patric has branched out on his own. Now he offers private cooking classes at home, which is ideal for parties or special group gatherings. On a windy afternoon at the Star Provisions building, Patric and I met to discuss his new venture, his passion for cuisine and Atlanta’s food scene.

“I was like, ‘Oh shit. Now I have to go to culinary school,’” Patric said. So, he packed his pans and moved to Atlanta. He landed a gig as a line cook at Bluepointe in Buckhead and then moved to Murphy’s and the Flying Biscuit. One morning a hung-over Patric slipped into the West Egg for brunch and left with the title of executive chef. After seven years at the West Midtown eatery, where he

Shannon: What prompted your new business? Patric: I am too old to work in a restaurant kitchen anymore. I’ve been doing it longer than I haven’t been doing it. I turned 41 in August, and I was working seven days a week, 16 hours a day. You go into work and it’s dark and you go home at night and it’s dark. You never see daylight. I enjoy the whole creative aspect of what you do in a restaurant kitchen. You’re always thinking on your feet. But just the physical part of it…I just wanted to do something that’s still with food but is a lot less physically taxing.

I won, and I won again in sixth grade, seventh grade and eighth grade. Shannon: What are your earliest memories of food? Patric: We didn’t really have any cooks in the family—no real phenomenal cooks. My Aunt Lucy was probably the best one on my father’s side. She always did Sunday dinner, and it was always huge. If she had four people she still cooked for forty. She always made red velvet cake, and red velvet is one of my obsessions. I just remember the first time I became aware of what red velvet cake was, I was like 12, and she had made a red velvet cake and I wanted to eat the entire thing. It was crazy, crazy good. She always baked really well. She made good strawberry cake and good red velvet cake. But food was just normal. We had a Betty Crocker cookbook and that’s where I first started cooking out of.

Shannon: When did you first get interested in food? Patric: When I was about 12 or so. 4-H would do a bake off every year and you could make quick bread or biscuits or muffins. I made banana nut bread and I used a brand new convection oven. They almost disqualified me because it was too fluffy for quick bread and Shannon: What is favorite dish to make at they thought I had used yeast and cheated. But home? 28 : MARCH 8, 2012 28 MARCH 5, 22, 2012 2012 30 : APRIL

URBAN CULTURE Patric: I’ll eat anything. I’ll eat Fruit Loops for dinner. But my partner loves when I make sopes, which are these thick corn tortillas. You brown them on the griddle and pinch up the edges and fry them and we top them with guacamole, chorizo, and stuff like that. He can eat those three meals a day. I really like when I do not have to do the cooking. That’s when food tastes the best, when he cooks. Shannon: What are your favorite restaurants? Patric: I love, love, love Pho Dai Loi on Buford Highway. They have really cheap pho bowls twice the size of your head. I love Woodfire Grill, Boccato and JCT. Udipi Café is the best Indian food in the universe. I could eat there three meals a day every day of my life. Shannon: What do you think of the food scene here? Patric: I think the food scene in Atlanta is about having fun and being adventurous with food. It’s probably one of the most fun food scenes in the country. It’s not as pretentious as some cities. It’s OK to do a bacon lollypop and bacon brittle and fried chicken on a stick. We have a gourmet hot dog restaurant where the hot dogs are $12 or more. Just like Flip. You can go in there and get that $40 Kobe beef hamburger, and it’s fun. It’s not pretentious or snooty.

Shannon: We have a thriving food scene here and a large gay population. How do you think those two mix? Patric: I think gay people eat out a lot. I don’t think we are represented within the industry as much as we are as customers. We’re very good customers and clients and guests and patrons. But I don’t know that many openly out gay and lesbian chefs. I can probably count them on one hand. And for a food scene that big it just seems like we should have a lot more visibility and I don’t think we do. Maybe that’s why I’m such a loud mouth. I’ve been out at every job I’ve had. I’ve been out since I was 12. Shannon: Where do you see your new business in the next few years? Patric: Ultimately what I want to do with this business and with my partner, Darin, is buy an old plantation house outside of Atlanta and turn it into a bed and breakfast and a destination cooking school like you find in Europe. You stay and for five days you have a different cooking lesson every day but have it focused on Southern food. Also I’d have a working garden. That’s the 10-year plan on this business. For more information about Patric and his business, please visit www.chefpatric.com. To see more of the Q&A, visit www.fenuxe.com.

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PIPING HOT PRIDE Miami Beach Goes Gay Shannon Jenkins, Associate Writer, Lifestyle & Culture Until a few years ago, Miami Beach’s gay pride celebration seemed to have evaporated during a heat wave. The coastal resort city hadn’t held a festival after a several-year hiatus until the mayor formed a committee to re-establish Miami Beach Gay Pride, with the event resuming in 2009.

et for April 12-15, the festival is now in its fourth year. Babak Movahedi, president of the board of directors for Miami Beach Gay Pride, said this year’s celebration expanded from a one-day event to include a roster of events over a four-day period.

“Especially when the drag queens stop a tour bus and climb inside to dance up and down the aisle of the bus!” Other gay-friendly eateries include Pasha’s on Lincoln Road and The Tides Hotel’s outdoor restaurant, The Terrace at King & Grove Tides.

“And because we’ve been attracting a huge number of out-of-town guests for Pride, this year we moved As far as the gay nightlife is concerned, Babak has the parade and festival to Sunday,” he said. “This a particularly favorite bar. allows us to schedule new events like a pool party at the Surfcomber on Saturday afternoon.” “Well, Mova, of course, because I own it,” he said. He also suggested Twist, the longest running Babak also confirmed several of this year’s gay club in the Miami area. The two-story club performers, including Wynter Gordon, Kristine W, features seven bars in one, with each bar having its Jessica Sutta of the Pussy Cat Dolls, JoJo, Frenchie own distinct atmosphere. And then there’s Score, Davis and Inaya Day, with Chaz Bono serving which is located in the heart of South Beach on the as grand marshal. infamous Lincoln Road. Babak said both locals and tourists love Score for people watching, socializing And, whether you can make it down for this with friends and dancing. year’s Pride or not, Babak offered several recommendations for his favorite hot spots. And, finally, for accommodations Babak advised visitors to check in at Lords South Beach, the When it comes to dining, The city’s first gay-oriented hotel. Palace ranks at the top of his list. “Or as they like to say, ‘appropriately oriented,’” he said of the hotel, which is in the middle “The food is great, and their of all the South Beach action and weekend brunches with features eclectic, bohemian designed drag performances are rooms, a lively pool scene and a bit l e g e n d a r y , ” of an obsession with a gay icon. Babak said. “The owner is particularly fond of Elizabeth Taylor, so there are portraits of her everywhere!”

32 : APRIL 8, 2012

For more details about Miami Beach Pride, please visit www.miamibeachgaypride.com. 30 : APRIL 5, 2012

EATS

Do you find yourself frequenting the same restaurants every week? Need a break from the same menu item you order on every visit? It’s time for you to explore Atlanta’s vast offering of dining options. Luckily, we’ve already done all the legwork for you with our second annual Food Issue. We risked our pant sizes for you as we tested some of the city’s well-established restaurants, as well as some of its newest eateries. On the following pages you’ll find our ten highly recommended dining establishments. Some only opened their doors within the last few months and have already earned a respected rep within the local cuisine scene. Others have been dishing out delicious meals for years and simply deserve our respect. Whether you crave a sizzling steak or a decadent dessert, we’ve found scrumptious selections that will satisfy meat lovers, vegetarians and sweet junkies alike. We’ve also graded these restaurants on price, gay quotient and ambiance. Please don’t fret over a low score on the queer scale. There may not be a group of gay guys playing trivia at every table, but the restaurant can still become one of your regulars. And, now we present our favorite selections, in no particular order, for this year’s Restaurant Roundup.

32 : APRIL MARCH 5, 22, 2012 2012

EATS Restaurant Roundup | Your Gay Guide To Atlanta’s dining destinations

Restaurant Most Likely to Tempt You and Win

Shannon Jenkins, Associate Writer

HIGHLAND BAKERY Indecisive eaters might find this Old Fourth Ward eatery’s menu a bit torturous. Every scrumptious item makes the mouth water, which makes a decision on lunch nearly impossible. I often toil over the shrimp and grits and the curried chicken salad. Lately, the former has won because it comes with grilled jalapeno focaccia bread, which makes me want to slap someone’s mamma. Often I’ve considered a plate piled high with the peanut butter French toast or sweet potato pancakes but I can’t justify eating those sweet delicacies because I always want a pastry after lunch. Oh, sweet baby Julia Child, do they have pastries! Their cakes are literally art. Joshua John Russell and Karen Portaleo, both gay, run the cake department and have flaunted their mad skills on Food Network. Seriously, if you haven’t visited this Highland Avenue restaurant, you haven’t experienced some of the finest food and delectable desserts Atlanta has to offer.

STATS Price

$ $ $

Gay Quotient Ambiance

655 Highland Avenue, #10 Atlanta, Georgia 30312 404.586.0772 www.highlandbakery.com

Restaurant That Will Have You Licking Your Fingers

Shannon Jenkins, Associate Writer

FARM BURGER Juicy burgers always conjure up memories of my childhood in rural Mississippi, and this Decatur joint made the country boy in me feel right at home. From the wood accents and the indoor picnic tables to the brown paper place mats and photos of moo cows, Farm Burger lives up to its name. Admittedly I don’t often eat red meat but I wrecked the menu’s No. 1 burger with grafton smoked white cheddar, caramelized onions and Farm Burger sauce. I also indulged in the hand cut fries with spicy garlic, herbs and parmesan. Another unique offering includes the Burger Banh Mi with pickled carrots, daikon radish, jalapenos, cilantro, house-made pork pate and mayo. If you’re scared of meat, there’s a veggie burger, fresh salads and homemade soups. There’s nothing particularly “gay” about this bustling eatery, but the cute server with the sweet disposition and tatted arms makes for good eye candy.

STATS Price

$ $

Gay Quotient Ambiance

Decatur 410b West Ponce de Leon Decatur, GA 30030 404.378.5077 www.farmburger.net

FENUXE.COM : 33

EATS Restaurant Roundup | Your Gay Guide To Atlanta’s dining destinations

Restaurant That Makes You Feel Better About Stufﬁng Your Face

TAQUERIA TSUNAMI As you bite into a taco at this Latin-Asian fusion kitchen, you can take comfort that some of the proceeds from your meal goes to charity. A portion of the proceeds from the Aloha, Pacific Rim and Garden tacos are donated to tsunami relief and natural disaster efforts around the world. Who knew dinner could have such a global impact? With an open, modern design, the Buckhead restaurant offers plenty of space for groups. Or you can leave the friends behind and chow down alone on a variety of specialty tacos. No one needs to know you ordered four or five or six delicious menu items. The Thai chicken taco with Thai peanut dressing more than pleases the taste buds, and the Aloha taco featuring teriyaki chicken topped with pineapple pico de gallo and spicy mayo offers quite the kick. A side of jalapeno cheese tater tots might seem out of place, but trust, it works!

STATS Price

Gay Quotient Ambiance

2293 Peachtree Road Northeast Atlanta, GA 30309 404.963.5049 www.taqueriatsunami.com

Restaurant Well Worth a Day’s Paycheck

STK If you LUV a high-energy dining experience, then STK is for you. With its contemporary design and comfortable atmosphere, the classy steakhouse at the corner of Peachtree and Twelfth encourages long conversations with your dinner companions. Don’t fret if you run out of gossip, the menu offers plenty to talk about. You can’t help but discuss some of the appealing appetizers, such as the shrimp rice krispies and foie gras french toast. The chatter may come to a temporary halt, however, once the entrees arrive. The 14-ounce bone-in filet topped with a medallion of truffle butter or the 34-ounce cowboy rib steak demand your mouth’s full attention. Do set aside a few hours to truly enjoy everything this restaurant has to offer. An evening at STK will easily run you $100 per person, but it’s well worth it. It’s the perfect setting if you’re looking to impress or simply crave a romantic evening with the one you love.

34 : APRIL MARCH 5, 22, 2012 2012

STATS Price

$$$$$

Gay Quotient Ambiance

1075 Peachtree Street NE Atlanta, GA 30309 404.793.0144 www.stkhouse.com

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EATS Restaurant Roundup | Your Gay Guide To Atlanta’s dining destinations

Restaurant That Will Make You Love Mother Earth

Ryan Lee, Associate Writer, News & Current Events

RADIAL Given how renowned the vegan and vegetarian options are at Radial, I was almost breathless after taking my first bite into one of their burgers, which had all the juiciness and flavor that you can only get from an open-flame grill. Although our visit was a little too early to be considered brunch, I was able to enjoy my bacon cheeseburger while my dining mates tore into a Cap N’ Crunch-crusted French toast special and blueberry gluten-free pancakes. The breakfast specials are always creative at Radial on the weekends, and now the same can be said about dinner. The eco-friendly eatery has incorporated a “Supper Club” approach to its nighttime menu, with freshly imagined entrees and desserts each Thursday through Saturday. With most of Radial’s ingredients coming from local growers, whatever combination they cook up is sure to be delicious, healthy and sustainable.

STATS Price

$ $

Gay Quotient Ambiance

1530 DeKalb Avenue Atlanta, GA 30307 404.659.6594 www.radial.us

Restaurant That Rocks Your Roll

BOTTLE ROCKET Tucked away in a cozy space near No Mas Cantina in Castleberry Hill, the fairly new Bottle Rocket is quickly becoming a neighborhood hot spot. With a hip, low-key rock vibe, the sushi joint features a young, friendly staff working the floor and colorful photos of truckers adorning the walls. But the shining star that makes this place truly pop is the menu. Two of their self-proclaimed “comfort cocktails” made us warm and fuzzy on the inside. The Dark N’ Stormy packs a delightful punch with its combination of ginger beer and dark rum, and the Georgia Boy appeals to the inner child with house-made almond milk, chocolate liqueur and Mexican Coke. Some of the sushi standouts include the Shrimp Tempura Roll, Bulls Eye and Happy Ending. We’ll refrain from making any childish jokes about that last name. Ahem. If you’re looking to add a firecracker to your restaurant regulars, Bottle Rocket is the perfect addition. 36 : APRIL MARCH 5, 22, 2012 2012

STATS Price

$ $ $

Gay Quotient Ambiance

180 Walker Street Southwest Atlanta, GA 30313 404.574.5680 www.bottlerocketatl.com

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EATS Restaurant Roundup | Your Gay Guide To Atlanta’s dining destinations

Restaurant Where You Can’t Swing a Bread Stick Without Hitting a Hottie or Drag Queen

BURKHART’S PUB You’ve cruised guys there. You’ve elbowed your way into a spot upstairs to watch drag queens strut their stuff. And you’ve no doubt stumbled out of there at three in the morning. But have you ever eaten at Burkhart’s, and we’re not talking about the complimentary popcorn at the bar. The wildly popular gay landmark features a full menu that includes everything from crisp salads to lip-smacking hamburgers. We recommend the seafood platter, which offers shrimp, scallops and filet of grouper. Also try the New York strip, paired with the spectacular tater tots or fries. When the weather is ideal, the outdoor courtyard provides the perfect setting for an incredibly affordable meal with friends. You can man watch, mingle and munch for easily less than $20, and that’s including a tip for the cute server.

STATS Price

$ $

Gay Quotient Ambiance

1492 Piedmont Avenue NE Atlanta, GA 30324 404.872.4403 www.burkharts.com

Restaurant That Will Have You Dreaming of Gondola Rides in Venezia

dino Thompson-Sarmiento, Fenuxe Contributor

DOUBLE ZERO

Contemporary Southern Italian cuisine thrives in Atlanta with Double Zero—finally a little bit of Italian heaven in the Deep South. The pizza, pasta and seafood abound with flavors and textures that are sure to start a party in your mouth; their wine selection is extensive and the desserts—oh the desserts—are probably some of the most original in Atlanta. I recommend expanding your horizons with this eclectic menu and try the Polipo (grilled octopus, sunchoke-pancetta hash, asparagus puree and salmoriglio sauce). Excellent! For those with less adventurous pallets I say try the Lobster Pappardelle, which features butter poached whole live Maine lobster, black pepper pappardelle, seasonal mushrooms, pearl onions, caramelized fennel, long stem artichokes, fresh basil, lobster white wine sauce. This gem is located in Sandy Springs not too far off 285 and well worth the drive. It is family-owned and operated by the Castellucci Hospitality Group. Kudos to Federico Castellucci for bringing us authentic Southern Italian to the heart of the South. 38 : APRIL MARCH 5, 22, 2012 2012

STATS Price

$ $ $

Gay Quotient Ambiance

5825 Roswell Road Atlanta, GA 30328 404.991.3666 www.doublezeroatl.com

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EATS Restaurant Roundup | Your Gay Guide To Atlanta’s dining destinations

Restaurant That Will Transform Any Yankee Into a True Southerner

SERPAS TRUE FOOD Not far from the famous Krog Street Tunnel lies one of the city’s hidden gems. Located in Studioplex in the Old Fourth Ward, Serpas showcases distinctive cuisine from Executive Chef and Owner Scott Serpas. The South Louisiana native infuses his personal style into a menu that will make you a repeat customer with just one bite. We suggest starting your meal with the crispy duck rolls, followed by a meal of jumbo sea scallops with spaghetti squash and panang curry or the trout stuffed with crab and mushroom. Other best bets include the crispy duck confit and the grilled veal porterhouse. Not only is the food delicious, but the presentation is simply stellar. And you can sit for hours in the contemporary yet unpretentious restaurant with friends or a special someone. Serpas definitely sets the stage for a perfect first date.

STATS Price

$ $ $

Gay Quotient Ambiance

659 Auburn Avenue, #501 Atlanta, GA 30312 404.688.0040 www.serpasrestaurant.com

Restaurant That Brings a Slice of Heaven to Earth

THE LAWRENCE Buzz built up for months prior to the opening of this new restaurant, and so far The Lawrence has yet to disappoint. With a name inspired by the Catholic patron saint of chefs, the upscale eatery is on a crusade to bring fine dining to the heart of Midtown. Executive Chef Shane Devereux of Top Flr and The Sound Table brings his culinary training in French cuisine to the table, while Chef de cuisine George Brooks taps into his experience with Rathbun’s Restaurant. With Devereux and Brooks running the kitchen, the menu offers unique dishes geared toward sophisticated foodies. Their divine offerings include duck tongue carnitas, wild striped bass and heritage pork cheeks, while the potted shrimp is worthy of worship. Kneel in praise of the dessert menu with the fallen chocolate rum souffle with butterscotch eclair ice cream and pretzel dust; golden raisin butter cake with salted caramel and parsnip milk; and the Thai tea crème brulee.

40 : APRIL 5, 2012

STATS Price

$$$$

Gay Quotient Ambiance

905 Juniper Street Atlanta, GA 30309 404.961.7177 www.thelawrenceatlanta.com

aBOUt thE C OV E r Joshua John Russell, 31 Atlanta neighborhood: Brookhaven Relationship status: Taken Hometown: Pascagoula, Mississippi Influenced by his father’s love for cooking, Joshua pursued a culinary arts degree at Johnson and Wales University in Providence, Rhode Island. For the past 10 years he has created cakes and desserts, with his most recent gig as a cake artist for Highland Bakery. One of his new projects for the year is leading an online cake class for Craftsy.com, which launches in early May. Here’s what Joshua had to say about his passion for making sweet stuff. What do you like most about making cakes? I love the science behind it. I think, for me, it’s the collaboration between science and design. I’ve always been creative so this is the best way for me to express myself artistically inside the cake and out. What are some of your career highlights? Well, being on Food Network Challenge for four years and “Last Cake Standing” helped spread my name. But the coolest thing I was able to do was make the cakes and cupcakes for the movie “Life As We Know It.” I got to teach Katherine Heigl how to decorate a cake! What is the most memorable cake you’ve ever made? It changes from time to time. Right now I’m most excited about the wedding cake I made for Kim Zolciak from “The Real Housewives of Atlanta.” She was so fun to work with. Have you made cakes for any celebrities? At Highland Bakery we make cakes for celebs all the time. With all of the filming happening in the city, we have had the opportunity to make cakes for Cameron Diaz and Chase Crawford, just to name a couple. What’s your personal favorite ﬂavor of cake? Anything with salted caramel! Actually, I don’t have a sweet tooth at all. So I tend to go for the salty sweet dishes. 44 : APRIL 5, 2012

i ns i d e l o o k

Shining S ta r A Greyhound Nourishes a Midtown Man’s Soul

Shannon Jenkins, Associate Writer, Lifestyle & Culture

uch like the sustenance he needs to survive, Kyle Rose can’t imagine his life without the jet black Greyhound he named Star. Ensuring she remains with him, however, isn’t a decision that rests entirely in his hands.

His situation stems from the fact that Kyle has lived nearly 20 years longer than expected. When he was diagnosed with HIV in 1989, he said the life expectancy for those infected with the virus was about three years. “The people I started out with in support groups and the friends I had back then are all dead,” he said. Despite the seemingly inevitable death sentence, Kyle kept plugging along, and in 1996 his illness progressed into AIDS. Over the years he’s battled a long list of health issues, including DVTs, a pulmonary embolism, hyperthyroidism, neuropathy in his hands and feet, broken bones from falls and a heart attack. At present, though, Kyle’s health is in good shape thanks to his dedication to exercise, yoga and eating only 46 : APRIL 5, 2012

organic foods. But, the same can’t be said for his finances. “Largely I’m at where I am financially because when you find out at age 30 you probably only have three years left you do not invest in retirement accounts, life insurance or longtime career goals,” he said. “You live in the moment. After you make it through those three years that extra year that comes one at a time is not enough to catch up. But all of a sudden there it is, and you’re 50 years old.” At a little more than $900 a month, Kyle’s disability income keeps him on an extremely tight budget. So, he counts on various charities and organizations to maintain his simple lifestyle. One such organization is P.A.L.S., a non-profit which provides free pet food and basic veterinary care

i ns i d e l o o k for senior citizens and critically ill and disabled Atlantans with pets. “If it weren’t for P.A.L.S. I could not afford Star,” Kyle said. He discovered the pet-oriented company about four or five years ago while he was still going through the process to go on disability. At the time he had his first Greyhound, Turk. “I’d spent all my savings, I was flat broke and I needed help,” Kyle recalled. “I went online and looked for different services that could help. P.A.L.S. was one of the ones that came up.” Kyle spoke with the organization’s executive director, Kevin Bryant, who helped his new client with the cost of caring for Turk until the canine passed away two-and-a-half years ago. “I’ve got a soft spot for P.A.L.S., and Kevin is a great guy,” Kyle said. “He’s always been there for me. I think it’s really important what he and the organization do. If I had money to leave, I’d leave it to P.A.L.S. They fill a need no one else does.” The organization filled his need once again when Kyle found Star shortly after Turk’s death. Two years later, she has become a loyal and comforting companion.

secured a compact one-bedroom apartment near Piedmont Park. In July that assistance ends, and Kyle has been looking for another resource to keep him in the neighborhood he considers home. Kyle began the process of housing assistance with another high profile Atlanta charity but discovered in an interview that he’d be forced to relocate to Sandy Springs—without Star.

“

When you’re not feeling up to it or you’re tired you still have to take care of her. She really is a very important part of my life. Sometimes I do meditation and they tell you to think of something that makes you happy and her face comes to mind.

”

“When you’re not feeling up to it or you’re tired you still have to take care of her,” said Kyle, who walks the Greyhound three times a day. “She really is a very important part of my life. Sometimes I do meditation and they tell you to think of something that makes you happy and her face comes to mind.” Unfortunately, Kyle recently faced the fact that Star could easily be extracted from his life. Last July he moved to Midtown after spending years in Newnan. Kyle moved from Ohio to the quaint town around 2002 to care for his father, who died of cancer nearly four years ago. With the help of The Living Room, an agency that offers financial assistance to people living with HIV/AIDS, Kyle

“Midtown has become my home; I love it here and feel good here, and Star is my family,” he said. “I’m not going to just cast her out of my life. I wrote them that the cost of their housing was too high a price in my life.” Meanwhile, Kyle continues living his life as he explores options for future housing. He exercises routinely and enjoys his yoga classes. He also reads, dabbles in photography and he admits he watches too much TV at night. And, whenever possible, he prefers to spend his time outside in the park with Star.

www.palsatlanta.org

770.384.8977 www.IceSculptureinc.com Owner/Sculptor: Jim Duggan

2293 Peachtree Road NE Atlanta, GA 30309 404-963-5049 Located .5 Miles South of Peachtree Battle Parking in Rear of Building

Calendar : 4/5 - 4/18 Thursday, april 5

sunday, april 8

Atlanta Blooms: Atlanta Botanical Garden 9AM-7PM Picasso to Warhol (Exhibit): 10AM-8PM Order of the Flaming Sugarbakers Support “Atlanta Pet Rescue & Adoption”: Woof’s 6-9PM

Sunrise Service: Grace United Methodist Church 7AM Church Without Walls: Gentle Spirit Christian Church 7:15AM Easter Worship: Saint Mark United Methodist Church 9AM Easter Sunday Service: Episcopal Church of St. John (College Park) 10:30AM Sunday Service: New Covenant Church 11AM “I Just Stopped By to See the Man” (Closes): Alliance Theatre 2:30 & 7:30PM Armorettes’ Easter Drag Races: Burkhart’s Pub 4-7PM Easter Fun-Raiser for PALS: Burkhart’s Pub 7:30 - 8:30PM

Friday, april 6 “Ghost Brothers of Darkland County”: Alliance Theatre 8PM Atlanta Bucks’ First Friday & Beer Bust: Heretic 8PM

saTurday, april 7 “Peter Pan”: Center for Puppetry Arts 12 & 2PM MondoHomo Wig Out 3: Eagle 2-8PM Easter Bonnet Runway Competition: MISTER Center 5-6PM Philip Bonneau’s “Heroes + Villains: Issue 2” (Exhibit): MISTER Center 6-9PM The Yes Girls (Live Comedy): Village Theatre

Monday, april 9 “Progressive Regression” (Art Exhibit): Cherrylion Studios 10AM-6PM Frontrunners: 905 Juniper Street 7:30PM NewNowNext Awards: Logo Channel 10PM

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Calendar : 4/5 - 4/18 Tuesday, april 10 AGLCC Business Builder Luncheon: Brio Tuscan Grille Buckhead 11:50AM Red Hot Chili Peppers Concert: Arena at Gwinnett Center 7:30PM

Wednesday, april 11 AGLCC Business Builder Luncheon: SoHo Vinings 11:30AM Frontrunners: John Howell Park 6:30PM Kevin James: Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre 8PM

Thursday, april 12 Taste of the Nation Atlanta: Georgia Aquarium 7:30PM Tyler Perry’s “Madea Gets a Job”: Fox Theatre 8PM

Friday, april 13 In Theaters “The Cabin in the Woods”: Citywide In Theaters “The Three Stooges”: Citywide Hank Williams Jr. Concert: Arena at Gwinnett Center 7PM

“Auntie Mame” (Opens): OnStage Atlanta 8PM Josh Turner Concert: Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre 8PM Tim Meadows Weekend of Improv: Dad’s Garage Theatre Company 8 & 10:30PM Atlanta Leather Pride: Atlanta Eagle 10PM

saTurday, april 14 “I Can Do It” Conference: Georgia World Congress Center 9AM-8:30PM COCKtails for a Purpose (Benefits Emory Vaccine Clinic): Cowtippers 3-7PM “The Motherf**ker with the Hat” (Closes): Actor’s Express 8PM Mr. & Ms. Atlanta Eagle Contest: Eagle 8PM Sister Funk: My Sister’s Room 9PM DJ Alex Cohen of Washington DC: Heretic 10PM “Rough” with DJ Martin Fry: Jungle 10PM

SEASON SubSCRIpTIONS ON SALE NOW! DON’T DELAy CALL TODAy! GREAT SEATS AT A GREAT pRICE!

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Calendar : 4/5 - 4/18 Sunday, april 15 Hotlanta Softball Games: Metro Softball Complex, 7301 Campbellton Road 9AM3PM Orchid Daze (Closes): Atlanta Botanical Garden 9AM-7PM Joining Hearts “Change of Seasons Tea Dance”: Georgian Terrace Hotel 4-9PM

Big Gay Game Show: Jungle 7:30-10:30PM

Monday, april 16 Frontrunners: 905 Juniper 7:30PM “The Black Jew Dialogues”: 14th Street Playhouse 8PM

TueSday, april 17 AGLCC Business Builder Luncheon: Hudson Grille Brookhaven 11:55AM Meditation Workshop: MISTER Center 5:30-730PM “Motherhood the Musical”: 14th Street Playhouse 8PM

WedneSday, april 18 AGLCC Business Builder Luncheon: Marlow’s Northlake Doubletree Hotel 11:30AM

Sister Funk

Saturday, april 14 My Sister’s Room Atlanta, 9PM The all-female band promises to deliver “power, energy and sass” with their provocative, original music. DJ Liz Owen spins after the show. Admission is $10. *Submit your events to shannon@fenuxe.com

“Atlanta’s #1 Concert Connection” Your #1 source for Madonna tickets at Philips Arena, call for your best seats today 404.276.6977!!! And all concerts, sports and theatre as well as tickets for all these great Atlanta venues: Aaron's Amphitheatre at Lakewood Atlanta Civic Center Atlanta Symphony Hall Buckhead Theatre Center Stage

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Patrick Smith, President 52 : APRIL 5, 2012

PiEDmoNT BARK YAPPY HoUR PREsENTs

COTILLION

oFFiciAl cRoWNiNg oF THE 2012 PAls sPoKEsPET EmcEEs Tyler calkins, Publisher, FENUXE magazine and mara Davis, DAVE Fm 92.9

mAY 6, 2012 H 3–6 Pm Dogs WElcomE H PET cosTUmEs oPTioNAl 20 admission to benefit PAls

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askMARY

Dear Mary,

Dear NMFS,

I caught my longtime roommate in an awkward position with a cantaloupe the other night in our kitchen. After years of sharing apartments together, we’re pretty open about everything, but this caught me off guard. He’s had a “love affair” with food for quite some time. We talked it out and he swears he never returns items to the community space and never touches anything I purchase. I trust him but now walking into our kitchen makes me feel dirty. What should I do?

You think you feel dirty? I have a delicate head and stomach this morning due to misjudging the appropriate dose of medicinal sippin’ rum last night. Dealing with fruit love in this condition is overwhelming, and I may need to lie down.

No More Fruit Salad

I have so many questions. At first, I took for granted that the cantaloupe was on the receiving end of the love, but as I mull this over, I realize there are other possibilities…horrifying possibilities. Actually, you know what, let’s just dismiss that possibility. My biggest issue is location. Had he and the vegetation gotten bored in the bedroom? Seeking to spice things up by moving into the kitchen? Or did he open the refrigerator, see the cantaloupe sitting there on the white wire shelf, so delicate and tempting, and succumb to overwhelming lust? Oh wait, was the cantaloupe whole or cut up? Was he doing the horizontal tango with a bowl of cut cantaloupe? Maybe he was just trying to make a smoothie. To be fair, if you walked in on him enjoying a private moment in the kitchen without a cantaloupe, it would still be weird. Buy him a mini fridge for his room and encourage him not to be shy to lock his door. And for God’s sake, don’t tell the GOP about this. No need to throw gas on the “If we allow gay marriage, what’s next—a man marrying a piece of fruit?!” flame.

If you’ve got a problem for Mary to solve, e-mail mary@fenuxe.com Mary is in no way qualiﬁed to give advice to others, and that is why we love her.

54 : APRIL 5, 2012

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Renovations & Handyman Services

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Residential & Commerical

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Care Looking for licensed, caring, experienced caregivers to work with excellent Private Home Care compay. CNA’s preferred.

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ATLANTA LEATHER PRIDE

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CHANGE OF SEASONS JOINING HEARTS CELEBRATES ARRIVAL OF SPRING

MAP 62: WEEKLY LINEUP 64: PARTIES+EVENTS 66: HEY GIRL HEY +PLUS: 60: 67: HOROSCOPE 68: FENUXE FORAGER 70, 72, 74, 76, 78: OUT

FENUXE.COM : 59

GAY ATLANTA MAP

Bliss Atlanta

2284 Cheshire Bridge Rd.

BJ Roosters

MAPKEY

Sports

Live Entertainment

Leather

Food

Non-Smoking

Pool Tables

Retailer

1086 Alco St.

Jungle Club

The Heretic

2115 Faulkner Rd.

2069 Cheshire Bridge Rd.

BR ID G

2425 Piedmont Ave.

Not Shown: Chaparral

2715 Buford Higway

Mary’s

1287 Glenwood Ave.

IR E ES H

1824 Cheshire Bridge Rd.

1600 Piedmont Ave.

Sister Louisa’s

Brushstrokes

The Cockpit

Felix’s

466 Edgewood Ave.

Swinging Richards 1400 Northside Dr.

Tripp’s Bar

1931 Piedmont Cir.

1510 Piedmont Ave. 1510 Piedmont Ave.

465 Boulevard

Mixx

1492 Piedmont Ave.

Oscar’s

My Sister’s Room LeBuzz 1271 Glenwood Ave.

Cowtippers

PIEDMONT AVE.

1842 Cheshire Bridge Rd.

Roxx Tavern & Diner

1544 Piedmont Rd.

Las Margaritas

Woofs

The Hideaway

2345 Chesire Bridge Rd.

Opus One

Club/Dancing

Hobnob

1551 Piedmont Ave.

Boy Next Door

1447 Piedmont Ave NE

1510 Piedmont Ave.

Burkharts

585 Franklin Road

1510 Piedmont Ave. AMSTERDAM AVE.

14TH ST.

Amsterdam Cafe 302 Amsterdam Ave. 12TH ST.

Einstein’s

F.R.O.G.S.

1077 Juniper St.

931 Monroe Dr. 10TH ST.

TWELVE Boutique

1049 Juniper St.

893 Peachtee St.

PIEDMONT AVE.

JUNIPER ST.

PEACHTREE ST.

SPRING ST.

WEST PEACHTREE ST.

Bulldogs

931 Monroe Dr.

227 10th St.

1000 Piedmont Ave. Ste. D

I-75 I-85

MetroFresh

Blake’s

Gilbert’s Cafe 219 10th St.

MONROE DR.

Joe’s On Juniper

The Fifth Ivory 794 Juniper St.

5TH ST.

Friends On Ponce

736 Ponce de Leon Ave.

PONCE DE LEON AVE.

Atlanta Eagle

306 Ponce de Leon Ave. NORTH AVE.

Model-T

669 Ponce de Leon Ave.

60 : APRIL 5, 2012

MONDAY

Oscarʼs – Midtown Martini Club – 4PM | Service Industry Night – 9PM Sister Louisaʼs Church – Ping Pong Tournament – 8PM The Hideaway – Domestic Beer Special Trippʼs – Monday Night Madness – 9PM Woofs – Texas Holdʼem Poker – 7:30PM

TUESDAY

Amsterdam – Evolve Showtunes – 9PM Blakeʼs – I Gotta Sing! Karaoke by Jealouse & Jerry – 11PM Burkhartʼs – Trivia Tuesday Karaoke – 11:30PM Cowtippers – Trivia – 8PM Friends On Ponce – Letʼs Make A Deal with Ken – 6PM Heretic – 3 Legged Cowboy Dance Lessons – 8PM LeBuzz – Krazy Karaoke – 10PM Maryʼs – Mary-oke – 9PM

MIXX – Piano Night with David Reeb – 8PM Model T – Texas Holdʼem Poker with Nut Flush – 9:30PM My Sisterʼs Room – Trivia – 8PM Oscarʼs – Show Tune Tuesday – 8 PM The Hideaway – Service Industry Night | Trivia with Will – 9PM Trippʼs – Ladies Night – 9PM Woofs – Industry Discount Day – 10AM to 10PM

WEDNESDAY

Blakeʼs – Rated R Drag Show – 11PM Burkhartʼs – Humpday Karaoke – 11:30PM Friends On Ponce – Team Trivia – 8PM Gilberts – Trivioke – 10PM Heretic – HUMP Dress Code Night – 10PM Joeʼs on Juniper – Crazy Bitch Bingo – 8PM Las Margaritas – Trivia – 7:30PM LeBuzz – Theme Nights – 9PM Maryʼs – The Honey Pot – 9PM

MIXX – Texas Holdʼem Poker with Nut Flush – 7PM Model T – Karaoke with Pat & Tina – 10PM My Sisterʼs Room – Karaoke – 8PM Oscarʼs – ReBooT Retro – 8PM Sister Louisaʼs Church – Church Organ Karaoke – 10PM The Hideaway – Miss Laurenʼs Poker – 7PM Trippʼs – Free Taco Bar – 5PM Woofs – Trivia – 8PM

THURSDAY

Blakeʼs – Texas Holdʼem Poker – 7PM Blakeʼs – The Shawnna Factor – 11PM Burkhartʼs – Twisted Thursdays – 11:30PM Cowtippers – Movie Night – 8PM Friends On Ponce – Where Girls would like Girls meet Girls with Regina Simms – 8PM Gilberts – Wine Tasting – 6:30 – 9:30PM Heretic – 3 Legged Cowboy Line Dance Lessons – 8PM Joeʼs on Juniper – Trivia – 8PM Las Margaritas – Crazy Bitch Bingo – 7:30PM

LeBuzz – Ladies Night – 11PM Maryʼs – Balls Out Thursdays Theme Night – 9PM MIXX – The Toolbox – 6PM | The Unexpected Cabaret – 11PM Model T – Wheel of ? with Michael – 9PM My Sisterʼs Room – Xplosion – 10PM Oscarʼs – Petey Party - 2PM – 8PM Tripps – Karaoke – 9PM Woofs – Country Music – 7PM

FRIDAY

Blakeʼs – Kitty LeClawʼs Meow Mix – 11PM Burkhartʼs – The Fab Five – 11:30PM Friends On Ponce – Happy Time with Ken & Bad Boy Brian – 6PM Heretic – DJ Lydia Prim – 10PM LeBuzz – Divas Cabaret – 11PM Maryʼs – Boys Room – 5PM

MIXX – End of the Week Party with Ron – 4PM | Grown & Sexy Dance – 10PM Model T – Free Friday Bagels – 10AM Oscarʼs – 80ʼs Retro Vidz – 8PM Trippʼs – Afternoon Delights – 4PM Woofs – TGIF Cocktail Night – 5PM

SATURDAY

Blakeʼs – Jealouseʼs Daring Divas Drag Show – 11PM Burkhartʼs – Extravaganza – 11:30PM Friends On Ponce – Afternoons with Bob! – 2PM LeBuzz – Divas Cabaret – 11PM Maryʼs – Hot Mess Dance Party – 9PM

MIXX – Afternoon Grill-out – 4PM | Guest DJʼs Dance – 10PM Model T – Saturday Night Live with Michael – 9PM Oscarʼs – Total Request Videos – 8PM Trippʼs – Cook out – 3PM

SUNDAY

For location information and a full list of venues, check out the Gay Atlanta Map

The latest and hottest events going on every week in gay Atlanta. 62 : APRIL 5, 2012

Amsterdam – Industry Night – 9PM Blakeʼs – Manic Monday – 11PM Burkhartʼs – Blue Monday Karaoke – 11:30PM Cockpit – Happy Bear Cocktail Hour – 6-9PM Friends On Ponce – Bad Boy Brian opens – 2PM Jungle – Stars of the Century –11PM LeBuzz – Drag Star – 10PM Maryʼs – Industry Night – 5PM Model T – Wheel of ? with Elvis – 9PM

Amsterdam – Brunch – 11AM Blakeʼs – Texas Holdʼem Poker – 2 PM Blakeʼs – Old School Sundays with DJ Bill Berdeaux – 3 – 7PM Blakeʼs – Sunday Funday with DJ Darrly Cox – 7PM – 12AM Burkhartʼs – The Armorettes – 8PM Friends On Ponce – Bad Boy Brianʼs Smirnoff B Mary Bar – 12:30PM

Gilbertʼs – Brunch – 10AM Las Margaritas – Brunch – 11AM Model T – Sunday Dinner with Ron – 3:30PM MIXX – Grill Out & Beer Bust – 4PM | Old School Sunday Dance – 7PM Roxx Tavern –Brunch – 11AM The Hideaway – Bloody Mary Bar – 12:30PM Trippʼs – Buffet of Goodness – 3 pm | Karaoke – 9PM

Ultra:

PARTIES + EVENTS

THURSDAY, APRIL 5

ATLANTA PET RESCUE & ADOPTION WOOF’S, ATLANTA, 6-9PM

Help The Order of the Flaming Sugarbakers support an organization that works to rescue adoptable dogs and cats. Learn more about pet adoption, volunteering, donating and more.

SATURDAY, APRIL 7

HEROES + VILLAINS: ISSUE 2 OPENING

MISTER CENTER, ATLANTA, 6-9PM

Photographer Philip Bonneau re-imagines the world of comic characters through his playful photography exhibit. Prints are available for purchase on opening day.

EVERY SATURDAY IN APRIL

FRIDAY, APRIL 13

ATLANTA LEATHER PRIDE EAGLE, ATLANTA, 10PM

Leather lovers kick off this three-day event with a Friday night party. Saturday offers a BBQ and Beer Bust from 4-6PM, the Mr. & Ms. Atlanta Eagle Contest from 8-9:30PM and the SWEAT Victory Party at 10PM. Sunday offers the Dutch Treat Leather Brunch from 12:30-2PM. All proceeds benefit the National Coalition for Sexual Freedom Foundation.

SATURDAY, APRIL 14

DJ ALEX COHEN

HERETIC, ATLANTA, 10PM

Dance the night away as DJ Alex Cohen of Washington DC unleashes his energetic music upon the Cheshire Bridge night club.

THE YES GIRLS

VILLAGE THEATRE, ATLANTA, 10:30PM

This campy duo will dazzle audiences with live sketches, song parodies and original videos as they strip down to their sparkly pasties and panties. Their humor is not for the easily offended. Tickets are $20.

SATURDAY, APRIL 14

ROUGH

JUNGLE, ATLANTA, 10PM

Ready for a night of play as DJ Martin Fry spins some sexy tunes? Come dressed in leather and get in for half price before 11PM. Regular admission is $10.

SUNDAY, APRIL 8

DRAG RACES

BURKHART’S PUB, ATLANTA, 4 TO ??

Join the Armorettes for their annual Easter blowout featuring dragtastic games, performances and cocktails. Brushstrokes will present an underwear fashion show from 7:30-8:30PM. Registration for the games begins at 2PM. Get there early! Check out our interview with the Armorettes on pages 18 and 19.

64 : APRIL 5, 2012

SUNDAY, APRIL 15

CHANGE OF SEASONS TEA DANCE

GEORGIAN TERRACE, ATLANTA, 4-9PM

Celebrate the arrival of spring with one of the largest fundraisers for Joining Hearts as you groove to the sounds of DJ Mike Pope and DJ Vicki Powell. Tickets are $20 in advance and $25 at the door. See our story on page 26.

Trial Lawyers Aggressively Representing Families in Our LGBT Community

RANDY E. FRY EXPERIENCED TRIAL LAWYER-PERSONAL INJURY

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the

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Holler poodles! It’s the Food Issue, and I’m full of it ... food y’all. You can look at me and just know I love food. In fact, if I ever had a vice, I would have to say it has always been food. I love it all, too. Not just some of it but all of it. With the exception of okra, lima beans and organ meats, I’ve probably eaten it. Growing up, food was always a reward for me—both in the orphanage and with my family. It also didn’t help that my mom always told us to clean our plates. To this day, I still clean my plate and can’t stand to “waste” food. Thankfully, a number of things are beginning to change. As of this writing, I’ve lost 23 pounds and am so excited! More than anything else, it has been due to controlling my portion sizes. I also have made a concerted effort to eat whole foods and limit processed ones. I’ve only been out to dinner twice in the last month, and I have not had any fast food since December. Drinking two glasses of water before every meal and working out three times a week have rounded out my program. It’s funny how my attitude towards food has started to change, too. I’m really enjoying making my meals at home and using fresh ingredients. It’s really fun to challenge myself to take a recipe and make it into something healthy. I’ve always loved pizza but now when I get a craving for it, I use a whole wheat tortilla and spread tomato sauce on it with turkey pepperoni and green olives and shredded cheese. It’s amazing how satisfying it is

66 : APRIL 5, 2012

without all those extra calories. I’ve also started eating a lot more dark green leafy vegetables like garlic spinach and kale. I also love brussel sprouts with garlic and red pepper flakes cooked under the broiler. When I get a craving for potatoes, I make roasted cauliflower and then put it in the blender with some spices. To me, it’s even better than mashed potatoes. It really is all about choices, and I feel like I’m on a good path. My friends have all said to allow myself a cheat day but what I’ve done is allowed myself a cheat meal. I allow myself a dessert once a week but having fresh fruit around has really curbed my sweet tooth. I heard a great comment awhile back that says, “I used to live to eat; now I eat to live.” I couldn’t agree more. Thank you for all the positive comments.

Mary Edith Pitts Please send your questions or feedback to me at maryedith99@gmail.com

Ultra PISCES February 19 to March 20

HOROSCOPES :

April 5 - April 18

CANCER June 21 to July 22

SCORPIO October 23 to November 22

Sometimes life is just one big Don’t stop talking until you have Good luck is coming in threes. mystery. Don’t just question but made your position crystal clear. It never hurts to help the odds. seek the solutions. Then repeat yourself for good That being said, be sure to order measure. three olives in your martini.

LEO ARIES

July 23 to August 22

SAGITTARIUS November 23 to December 21

Sometimes it’s nice to share your Enjoy the benefits of daylight goals with others. Just be willing Remember that comfort food savings time and stay out late to accept a little skepticism along results in the need for comfort at the park. Your dog needs the with the approval. vitamin D, too. clothes, so dine accordingly.

March 21 to April 19

TAURUS April 20 to May 20 You are the center of attention these days. Stay focused and don’t be pulled in the wrong direction.

GEMINI May 21 to June 20

VIRGO August 23 to September 22

CAPRICORN December 22 to January 19

You have my permission to It really doesn’t match your treat yourself to a frozen yogurt. personality to limit the type of wine Although, like real pearls, you’re with the type of entrée. Rebellion already pretty cultured. is thy name.

LIBRA September 23 to October 22

AQUARIUS January 20 to February 18

The new ultra healthy food is Don’t worry about picking up You are a regular bottle of quinoa. If you can correctly the check. Everything works out sparkling water these days–– fresh and bubbly. pronounce it, you get to eat it with evenly in the end. gravy.

FENUXE.COM : 67

FENUXE

Forager I SPY SOMETHING QUEER Put your cruising skills to the test at your favorite gay spot. Cross off the below items as you spot them for your own entertainment or ask the cute guy at the bar to help you. If you desire a competition, take photos of your ﬁnds as you and your friends race against time to ﬁnd the most items. Have fun!

Vodka Bottle

Menu Food

Rainbow flag

A cocktail umbrella

gay Salt shaker

A microphone

A guy in a pink t-shirt

The word “gay”

A black high heel

A Fenuxe cover

A bartender smiling

Condom Packet

Spoon & fork

A gay kiss

A disco ball

Dj spinning

Name: Email:

Enter for your chance to win A bottle of Cocky Masculine Deodorant Spray From Ego Elixir

To be eligible to win: Option 1 = Find all 16 and mail your copy (along with your name and email address) to Fenuxe Magazine, 1123 Zonolite Drive, Suite 7B, Atlanta 30306. Option 2 = Take photos of four finds and email them to Shannon@fenuxe.com.

68 : APRIL 5, 2012

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UltrA

SUNDAY FUNDAY March 25 5 Napkin Burger It was shoulder to shoulder packed for the official opening of the Midtown eateryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s patio, which featured a beer bust to benefit Joining Hearts.

70 : APRIL 5, 22, 2012 MARCH 2012

OUT PHOTOS

UltrA

HIDEAWAY March 24 â&#x20AC;˘ Hideaway Spirits were high as a jovial crowd filled the Ansley Park night spot on a Friday night.

66 72 : MARCH APRIL 5, 8, 2012 2012

OUT PHOTOS

UltrA

LILY WHITE FUNDRAISER March 22 â&#x20AC;˘ Jungle Gay Atlanta rallied to the rescue of legendary drag queen Lily White, with dozens of drag stars taking the stage to help raise thousands of dollars.

74 : APRIL 5, 2012

OUT PHOTOS

Keynote Speakers: Representative Tammy Baldwin (D-WI)

Winston Johnson and Leon Allen Community Leadership Award: Rev. Phillip Thomason

Dan Bradley Humanitarian Award: The Health Initiative

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HOTLANTA SOFTBALL OPENING DAY March 25 â&#x20AC;˘ Metro Softball Complex Scores of uniform-clad men worked up a sweat during the first day of the 2012 softball season.

76 : APRIL 5, 2012

OUT PHOTOS

 

To all in attendance at the 2012 Best Bachelor Auction and to our gracious sponsors: Presenting Sponsor:

Gold Sponsor:

Dwight Harrison Volkswagon Silver Sponosr:

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We also would like to thank the following businesses & individuals: Raw Space, Delta Airlines, STK, Look Young Spa, Q100, Horizon Theatre, 7 Stages Theatre, Brushstrokes, The Atlanta Opera, Colony Square Fitness, Atlanta Rocks, Cohen Chiropractic, Sam’s Hair Salon, Whole Foods, Astroglide, Dip n Dab, Talk of the Town, Raising the Bar, Kroger at Ansley Mall, Vista Yoga, Woo Skincare, Dr. Morgan, La Fitness Ansley Mall, Verasanos, Taqueria Tsunami, Wall Crawler, Myers Carpet, Dad’s Garage, The Jungle Club, Bubba D., Garris Eddington, Tamara Jones, Candace Hunzicker, Karla Kreitner, Jon Santos, Bill Kaelin, Brett Holtzclaw, Joellen Eisman, Charles Swint, Bob Steele. FENUXE.COM : 77

UltrA

TOTALLY TYLER BOOK SIGNING March 22 • Mixx Literary fans came out to hear party boy blogger Totally Tyler read from his new book, which features his experiences with Atlanta’s gay dating scene.

78 : APRIL 5, 2012

OUT PHOTOS

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Hookah Parties Thursdays 6-11 pm 15% Off Pipes & Tobacco 465 Boulevard Suite 105A Atlanta Ga, 30312

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Experience Same location...Different look, different feel. Come in and see all the great new changes we have made and continue to make!! Full gym now available. Large hot tub coming soon. NEW WEEKEND RATES $10 LOCKERS $20 ROOMS MONDAY-wednesday RATES $5 LOCKERS $20 ROOMS

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Entrance into Flex now on 4th Street. 76 4th ST NW Atlanta, GA 30308 (404) 815-0456

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2140 PEACHTREE ROAD, SUITE 232, ATLANTA, GA 30309 404-231-4431 HoURS oF oPERATioN: MONDAY-FRIDAY 7:00 AM - 5:30 PM

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74 : MARCH 8, 2012

Mike Beeler | 678.548.7616

www.dwightharrison.com

Dwight Harrison Volkswagen

Because Your Car Needs a Good Oil Change Specialist Three Convenient

Intown Locations

Buckhead

4390 ROSWELL RD. tel: (404) 303-9005 ATLANTA, GA 30342

Midtown

west midtown

566 PONCE DE LEON AVE tel: (404) 733-6905 ATLANTA, GA 30308

1953 HOWELL MILL RD tel: (404) 351-6363 ATLANTA, GA 30318

Hours: Mon-Fri 8am-6pm Sat 8am-5pm Sun 11-5 Oil Change Conventional Oil 5w20 or 5w30

Oil Change synthetic blend or high mileage oil

99 + Tax and Shop Fees

Save $11. Regular Price $29.99 Most vehicles. Includes up to 5 qts oil. Excludes high mileage & synthetic oil. Not valid with any other coupons, specials or discounts.

Oil Change synthetic oil 5w30

99 $ + Tax and Shop Fees

Save $10. Regular Price $49.99 Most vehicles. Includes up to 5 qts oil. Not valid with any other coupons, specials or discounts.

99 + Tax and Shop Fees

Save $10. Regular Price $69.99 Most vehicles. Includes up to 5 qts oil. Not valid with any other coupons, specials or discounts.

Present ad for this special pricing 76 : MARCH 8, 2012

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