01/05/18, Vol. 8 Issue 23

What is TRUVADA for PrEP?

Who should not take TRUVADA for PrEP?

TRUVADA for PrEP (pre-exposure prophylaxis) is a prescription medicine that is used together with safer sex practices to help reduce the risk of getting HIV-1 through sex.

This use is only for HIV-negative adults who are at high risk of getting HIV-1. To help determine your risk of getting HIV-1, talk openly with your healthcare provider about your sexual health.

Ask your healthcare provider if you have questions about how to prevent getting HIV. Always practice safer sex and use condoms to lower the chance of sexual contact with body fluids. Never reuse or share needles or other items that have body fluids on them.

Do not take TRUVADA for PrEP if you: ® Already have HIV-1 infection or if you do not know your HIV-1 status. If you are HIV-1 positive, you need to take other medicines with TRUVADA to treat HIV-1. TRUVADA by itself is not a complete treatment for HIV-1. If you have HIV-1 and take only TRUVADA, your HIV-1 may become harder to treat over time. ® Also take certain medicines to treat hepatitis B infection.

IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION What is the most important information I should know about TRUVADA for PrEP? Before taking TRUVADA for PrEP: ® You must be HIV-negative before you start taking TRUVADA for PrEP. You must get tested to make sure that you do not already have HIV-1. Do not take TRUVADA to reduce the risk of getting HIV-1 unless you are confirmed to be HIV-negative. ® Many HIV-1 tests can miss HIV-1 infection in a person who has recently become infected. If you have flu-like symptoms, you could have recently become infected with HIV-1. Tell your healthcare provider if you had a flu-like illness within the last month before starting or at any time while taking TRUVADA for PrEP. Symptoms of new HIV-1 infection include tiredness, fever, joint or muscle aches, headache, sore throat, vomiting, diarrhea, rash, night sweats, and/or enlarged lymph nodes in the neck or groin.

While taking TRUVADA for PrEP: ® You must continue to use safer sex practices. Just taking TRUVADA for PrEP may not keep you from getting HIV-1. ® You must stay HIV-negative to keep taking TRUVADA for PrEP: ® Get tested for HIV-1 at least every 3 months. ® If you think you were exposed to HIV-1, tell your healthcare provider right away. ® To further help reduce your risk of getting HIV-1: ® Know your HIV status and the HIV status of your partners. ® Get tested for other sexually transmitted infections. Other infections make it easier for HIV to infect you. ® Get information and support to help reduce risky sexual behavior, such as having fewer sex partners. ® Do not miss any doses of TRUVADA. Missing doses may increase your risk of getting HIV-1 infection. ® If you do become HIV-1 positive, you need more medicine than TRUVADA alone to treat HIV-1. TRUVADA by itself is not a complete treatment for HIV-1. If you have HIV-1 and take only TRUVADA, your HIV-1 may become harder to treat over time.

TRUVADA can cause serious side effects: ® Worsening of hepatitis B (HBV) infection. TRUVADA is not approved to treat HBV. If you have HBV and stop taking TRUVADA, your HBV may suddenly get worse. Do not stop taking TRUVADA without first talking to your healthcare provider, as they will need to monitor your health.

What are the other possible side effects of TRUVADA for PrEP? Serious side effects of TRUVADA may also include: ® Kidney problems, including kidney failure. Your healthcare provider may do blood tests to check your kidneys before and during treatment with TRUVADA. If you develop kidney problems, your healthcare provider may tell you to stop taking TRUVADA. ® Too much lactic acid in your blood (lactic acidosis), which is a serious but rare medical emergency that can lead to death. Tell your healthcare provider right away if you get these symptoms: weakness or being more tired than usual, unusual muscle pain, being short of breath or fast breathing, stomach pain with nausea and vomiting, cold or blue hands and feet, feel dizzy or lightheaded, or a fast or abnormal heartbeat. ® Severe liver problems, which in rare cases can lead to death. Tell your healthcare provider right away if you get these symptoms: skin or the white part of your eyes turns yellow, dark “tea-colored” urine, light-colored stools, loss of appetite for several days or longer, nausea, or stomach-area pain. ® Bone problems, including bone pain, softening, or thinning, which may lead to fractures. Your healthcare provider may do tests to check your bones.

Common side effects in people taking TRUVADA for PrEP are stomach-area (abdomen) pain, headache, and decreased weight. Tell your healthcare provider if you have any side effects that bother you or do not go away.

What should I tell my healthcare provider before taking TRUVADA for PrEP? ® All your health problems. Be sure to tell your healthcare provider if you have or have had any kidney, bone, or liver problems, including hepatitis. ® If you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. It is not known if TRUVADA can harm your unborn baby. If you become pregnant while taking TRUVADA for PrEP, talk to your healthcare provider to decide if you should keep taking TRUVADA. ® If you are breastfeeding (nursing) or plan to breastfeed. Do not breastfeed. If you become HIV-positive, HIV can be passed to the baby in breast milk. ® All the medicines you take, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements. TRUVADA may interact with other medicines. Keep a list of all your medicines and show it to your healthcare provider and pharmacist when you get a new medicine. ® If you take certain other medicines with TRUVADA, your healthcare provider may need to check you more often or change your dose. These medicines include certain medicines to treat hepatitis C (HCV) infection.

You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit www.FDA.gov/medwatch, or call 1-800-FDA-1088.

Please see Important Facts about TRUVADA for PrEP including important warnings on the following page.

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We're open, not unprepared.

We know who we are. And we make choices that fit our lives.

TRUVADA for PrEP™ is a once-daily prescription medicine that can help reduce the risk of getting HIV-1 when taken every day and used together with safer sex practices. ® TRUVADA for PrEP is only for adults who are at high risk of getting HIV through sex. ® You must be HIV-negative before you start taking TRUVADA for PrEP.

Ask your doctor about your risk of getting HIV-1 infection and if TRUVADA for PrEP may be right for you.

Learn more at truvada.com

8/7/17 3:20 PM

IMPORTANT FACTS

This is only a brief summary of important information about taking TRUVADA for PrEPTM (pre-exposure prophylaxis) to help reduce the risk of getting HIV-1 infection. This does not replace talking to your healthcare provider about your medicine.

(tru-VAH-dah) MOST IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT TRUVADA FOR PrEP Before starting TRUVADA for PrEP: • You must be HIV-1 negative. You must get tested to make sure that you do not already have HIV-1. Do not take TRUVADA for PrEP to reduce the risk of getting HIV-1 unless you are confirmed to be HIV-1 negative.

• Many HIV-1 tests can miss HIV-1 infection in a person who has recently become infected. Symptoms of new HIV-1 infection include flu-like symptoms, tiredness, fever, joint or muscle aches, headache, sore throat, vomiting, diarrhea, rash, night sweats, and/or enlarged lymph nodes in the neck or groin. Tell your healthcare provider if you have had a flu-like illness within the last month before starting TRUVADA for PrEP. While taking TRUVADA for PrEP: • You must continue to use safer sex practices. Just taking TRUVADA for PrEP may not keep you from getting HIV-1.

• You must stay HIV-negative to keep taking TRUVADA for PrEP. Get tested for HIV-1 at least every 3 months while taking TRUVADA for PrEP. Tell your healthcare provider right away if you think you were exposed to HIV-1 or have a flu-like illness while taking TRUVADA for PrEP. • If you do become HIV-1 positive, you need more medicine than TRUVADA alone to treat HIV-1. If you have HIV-1 and take only TRUVADA, your HIV-1 may become harder to treat over time.

• See the “How To Further Reduce Your Risk” section for more information.

TRUVADA may cause serious side effects, including: • Worsening of hepatitis B (HBV) infection. TRUVADA is not approved to treat HBV. If you have HBV, your HBV may suddenly get worse if you stop taking TRUVADA. Do not stop taking TRUVADA without first talking to your healthcare provider, as they will need to check your health regularly for several months.

ABOUT TRUVADA FOR PrEP TRUVADA for PrEP is a prescription medicine used together with safer sex practices to help reduce the risk of getting HIV-1 through sex. This use is only for HIV-negative adults who are at high risk of getting HIV-1.

• To help determine your risk of getting HIV-1, talk openly with your healthcare provider about your sexual health.

Do NOT take TRUVADA for PrEP if you: • Already have HIV-1 infection or if you do not know your HIV-1 status.

• Take certain medicines to treat hepatitis B infection.

HOW TO TAKE TRUVADA FOR PrEP • Take 1 tablet once a day, every day, not just when you think you have been exposed to HIV-1.

• Do not miss any doses. Missing doses may increase your risk of getting HIV-1 infection.

• Use TRUVADA for PrEP together with condoms and safer sex practices.

• Get tested for HIV-1 at least every 3 months. You must stay HIV-negative to keep taking TRUVADA for PrEP.

POSSIBLE SIDE EFFECTS OF TRUVADA FOR PrEP TRUVADA can cause serious side effects, including: • Those in the “Most Important Information About TRUVADA for PrEP” section.

• New or worse kidney problems, including kidney failure.

• Too much lactic acid in your blood (lactic acidosis), which is a serious but rare medical emergency that can lead to death. Tell your healthcare provider right away if you get these symptoms: weakness or being more tired than usual, unusual muscle pain, being short of breath or fast breathing, stomach pain with nausea and vomiting, cold or blue hands and feet, feel dizzy or lightheaded, or a fast or abnormal heartbeat.

• Severe liver problems, which in rare cases can lead to death. Tell your healthcare provider right away if you get these symptoms: skin or the white part of your eyes turns yellow, dark “tea-colored” urine, light-colored stools, loss of appetite for several days or longer, nausea, or stomach-area pain.

• Bone problems.

Common side effects in people taking TRUVADA for PrEP include stomach-area (abdomen) pain, headache, and decreased weight.

These are not all the possible side effects of TRUVADA. Tell your healthcare provider right away if you have any new symptoms while taking TRUVADA for PrEP. Your healthcare provider will need to do tests to monitor your health before and during treatment with TRUVADA for PrEP.

BEFORE TAKING TRUVADA FOR PrEP Tell your healthcare provider if you: • Have or have had any kidney, bone, or liver problems, including hepatitis.

• Have any other medical conditions.

• Are pregnant or plan to become pregnant.

• Are breastfeeding (nursing) or plan to breastfeed. Do not breastfeed. If you become HIV-positive, HIV can pass to the baby in breast milk.

Tell your healthcare provider about all the medicines you take: • Keep a list that includes all prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements, and show it to your healthcare provider and pharmacist.

• Ask your healthcare provider or pharmacist about medicines that should not be taken with TRUVADA for PrEP.

HOW TO FURTHER REDUCE YOUR RISK • Know your HIV status and the HIV status of your partners.

• Get tested for other sexually transmitted infections. Other infections make it easier for HIV to infect you.

• Get information and support to help reduce risky sexual behavior, such as having fewer sex partners.

• Do not share needles or personal items that can have blood or body fluids on them.

GET MORE INFORMATION • This is only a brief summary of important information about TRUVADA for PrEP. Talk to your healthcare provider or pharmacist to learn more, including how to prevent HIV infection.

• Go to start.truvada.com or call 1-800-GILEAD-5 • If you need help paying for your medicine, visit start.truvada.com for program information.

TRUVADA FOR PREP, the TRUVADA FOR PREP Logo, the TRUVADA Blue Pill Design, TRUVADA, GILEAD, and the GILEAD Logo are trademarks of Gilead Sciences, Inc., or its related companies. All other marks referenced herein are the property of their respective owners.

Version date: April 2017 © 2017 Gilead Sciences, Inc. All rights reserved. TVDC0153 07/17

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8/7/17 3:20 PM

GEORGIA NEWS

Openly gay Brookhaven man to run for state House District 80 Candidate to focus on ‘issues that matter most,’ stand up against discriminatory bills

By DALLAS ANNE DUNCAN Georgia’s House District 80, which encompasses Chamblee, Brookhaven and Sandy Springs, has long been a swing district.

In 2015, former Georgia Tech quarterback Democrat Taylor Bennett — whose mother and sister are gay — won a special election to represent the area. He lost by a slim margin the next year to Meagan Hanson, a Republican who once worked for former Alabama Sen. Jeff Sessions. Bennett’s not running in 2018, but Hanson is: and an openly gay candidate named Matthew Wilson is vying for her seat.

The issues that matter “I think our district deserves a representative who will focus on the issues that matter most to us: ensuring a quality education, expanding transit options, growing our economy and ensuring equality under the law for all of our friends and neighbors. I don’t think that’s what we have right now,” Wilson told Georgia Voice. “We’re one of the most educated districts, one of the more affluent districts. It’s focused on business, it’s focused on economic growth and ensuring a bright future for our children, and so these other issues that Georgia Republicans have tried to push in election years, such as [religious exemptions] for one example, just absolutely do not play well in our district.”

The trial lawyer grew up in Griffin, Georgia, and now lives in Brookhaven. He never ran for public office before, though he worked on a previous gubernatorial campaign, and as the legislative director for the State Bar Association.

District 80 is “the single-most 50/50 district” in Georgia, Bennett said. He described District 80 as moderate, with lines originally drawn to favor the GOP. However, as metro Atlanta’s population changed and young professionals began moving to the area, the www.thegeorgiavoice.com

Long known as a swing district, Georgia’s House District 80 is up for another tightly contested race this year. Openly gay candidate Matthew Wilson, left, challenges Republican incumbent Meagan Hanson, right, who was elected in 2016 by a narrow margin over incumbent Taylor Bennett. (Courtesy photos)

“I think our district deserves a representative who will focus on the issues that matter most to us: ensuring a quality education, expanding transit options, growing our economy and ensuring equality under the law for all of our friends and neighbors. I don’t think that’s what we have right now.”

—Matthew Wilson, openly gay candidate for state House District 80 district balanced itself out. The representative before Bennett was elected as a Democrat and switched parties during his time in office, Wilson said.

“Anybody who wants to run for office in District 80 can’t be a wack job on either side.

It is the most moderate district in the state,” Bennett said. “District 80 won’t tolerate anyone who’s crazy. Be very aware that you can’t deviate from the middle line.”

He plans to support Wilson “wholeheartedly, 100 percent” in the 2018 race because of his awareness of the political climate. Bennett said the president’s ability to empower people to speak openly against minorities and get away with it should not be tolerated, and said it was necessary to have elected officials at all levels stand up to that behavior.

“That is a huge gap in leadership, in my opinion, and that is something that our cur-

rent state representative in District 80 doesn’t have. That’s why I think [Wilson] will be a wonderful candidate,” Bennett said. “Being a gay man, it’s exciting that he’s stepping into the public world to run for office. It’s a very scary thing for anyone to do.”

Progressive representation in a moderate district “There’s a huge void in the South with socially progressive legislation,” Bennett said.

“When you … get to the underbelly of how prevalent discrimination still is, you understand how important it is that we have people in office who grasp those concepts and move that legislation through, and say to the people of Georgia that we won’t tolerate that. I think Matt Wilson totally understands that. … I think that’s something that differentiates him from his opponent in this race.”

Wilson’s opponent, however, disagrees.

Hanson plans to bring up a revised “brunch bill” that allows restaurants to serve alcohol before noon, and support the overhauled state adoption code, but her magnum opus in the 2018 session may be the hate crimes bill she introduced at a press conference on Jan. 3.

“I’m working on it myself since I went into session, and comparing statutes that other states have, Georgia is only one of five states that does not have a hate crimes statute on the books. I think that is utterly ridiculous for the state that we are, given that we are an economic engine and we see ourselves being a more progressive state,” she said. “I struggle with why a hate crimes statute is even perceived to be a partisan issue.”

Wilson appears to take Hanson’s comments with a grain of salt.

“Now that we’re in an election year, her record is going to become a lot more progressive,” he said. “If you look at her record last year, I don’t think you’ll find that she’s the progressive representative that our moderate district deserves.”

Reaching the voters Bennett said in order for either candidate to get voters’ support, they’ll need to be genuine. For Wilson, that means talking about how the legislation he’s against could affect himself and other Georgians.

“As a gay man and an openly gay candidate, I’ve been affected by those issues and I’m ready to stand up against the Republicans and fight on the issues that impact us day to day,” Wilson said.

He doesn’t have a legislative record to show voters like Hanson does. But he’s ready to share his experiences and how they affect the issues he’s passionate about, like teaching at a Title I school, working on a statewide campaign, lobbying legislators against religious exemptions bills and being chosen to represent his clients at vulnerable times in their lives.

“It also shows me how incredibly important our civil justice system is and how, when lawmakers discuss changing particular aspects of our civil justice system, I understand the impact it has on everyday Georgians,” Wilson said. “For most of the voters, those resonate more than a voting record.”

January 5, 2018 News 5

? News January 5, 2018 www.thegeorgiavoice.com

GEORGIA NEWS

Woman claims Gwinnett Tech fired her for coming out as transgender Christine Daily has filed suit alleging violation of Equal Protection Clause

fired in November 2016. Gerardo and Phil Klein, dean of Health Sciences, allegedly told her she was being terminated due to “unprofessional conduct and insubordination” and she was escorted off the property.

By ELIZABETH FRIEDLY Christine Daily, former program director of Emergency Medical Services at Gwinnett Technical College, has filed suit against the school alleging she was fired for coming out as transgender.

The lawsuit, obtained by Georgia Voice, lists the defendants the Technical College System of Georgia, Gwinnett Tech’s president, the former and current deans of Health Sciences, the vice president of Academic Affairs, the former director/coordinator of Human Resources and anonymous workers John or Jane Doe. Gwinnett Technical College was ranked the third largest technical college in the state, as of 2015, by the Atlanta Business Chronicle based on total enrollment.

The lawsuit was filed Nov. 11 in federal court in Atlanta and contends that the college subjected Daily to sex discrimination and retaliation in in violation of the Equal Protection Clause of the 14th Amendment.

Daily filed an earlier charge of discrimination with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, who on Aug. 24 issued Notice of Right to sue.

Timeline of a termination GTC originally hired Daily in 2006 as an instructor in the Health Sciences Department, and in 2008 she was promoted to program director of Emergency Medical Services.

Her troubles began in May 2016, when she filed a formal complaint concerning harassment from a co-worker with Steven Moyers, the dean of Health Sciences at the time. A meeting with Dr. Victoria Seals, vice president of Academic Affairs, was called to discuss the matter. Daily said she informed Seals that she was transgender and planned to proceed with her physical transition. Seals then reportedly sent

Christine Daily filed suit against Gwinnett Tech College in federal court on Nov. 11.

(Courtesy photo)

her to Human Resources to meet with the department’s now former Director Debra Gerardo, where she came out to her as transgender. She said she was told that the department would discuss the “issue” with attorneys before revisiting.

In the days following, Daily said Gerardo told her she would be required to give 24 hours’ notice of a name and sex change. Gerardo also allegedly warned Daily that upon notification of the change, she would not be “allowed” to alternate her identity. She was also asked to prepare a transition timeline, to be reviewed by Gerardo and Seals. After submitting it, Daily claimed Seals informed her that the timeline provided would “disrupt the education process.” They allegedly asked that Daily refrain from presenting as her gender until the Christmas break — several months out.

The Technical College System of Geor-

gia’s policy manual lists three formal levels of disciplinary action: Reminder 1, Reminder 2, and Decision-Making Leave. During the first meeting, the supervisor is to inform the employee that it is their first formal reminder. After six months or three repeated reminder meetings, a second reminder is given. The policy manual instructs that three situations generally lead to a decision-making leave, including a similar problem within nine months, three second reminder meetings or sufficiently serious issues with performance, conduct or attendance.

However, three months prior to being fired, Daily said Gerardo and Seals told her she must take a 24-hour decision-making leave, not giving Daily the opportunity to complete the first two steps.

Daily, who claimed she never received a negative review during her time there, was

Courts, Justice Department differ on Title VII claims Daily is seeking compensation for pain, suffering and punitive damages. Her specific terms are reinstatement or front pay in lieu of reinstatement, providing appropriate back pay (to be determined in trial), compensation for past and future financial losses, compensation for past and future non-financial losses as well as attorney’s fees.

GTC’s non-discrimination policy states that the college does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, creed, national or ethnic origin, gender, religion, disability, age, political affiliation or belief, genetic information, disabled veteran, spouse of military member or citizenship status. It also encompasses the recruitment and employment of personnel and contracting for goods and services.

The 11th Circuit Court of Appeals, which covers Alabama, Georgia and Florida, established in a 2011 decision that Title VII prohibits employment discrimination against a transgender individual, because gender non-conformity amounted to sex discrimination.

But in October of this year, U.S. Attorney General Jeff Sessions reversed the Justice Department’s stance that Title VII protects transgender employees. The memo declared that Title VII “does not encompass discrimination based on gender identity per se, including transgender status.”

The statement conflicts with the EEOC’s position that Title VII covers transgender workers, as well as decisions from courts in the First, Sixth, Ninth and 11th Circuits.

Phillip McCurdy and Emily Brenner are the lead attorneys for Christine Daily in her case. No deadlines or hearings have been scheduled as of press time.

Daily’s attorneys have offered the defendants the opportunity to acknowledge the suit, and neither the defendants nor their attorneys responded to request for comment from Georgia Voice.

6 News January 5, 2018 www.thegeorgiavoice.com

NEWS BRIEFS Gov. Deal appoints lesbian judge in Clayton County Georgia Gov. Nathan Deal on Dec. 21 appointed lesbian Kathryn L. Powers to the Superior Court judgeship within the Clayton Judicial Circuit. The appointment comes just a year after Deal appointed her to serve as a State Court judge in Clayton County.

Powers, who lives with her wife Stephanie in Jonesboro, earned a bachelor’s degree from Georgia State University and a law degree from the Walter F. George Kathryn L. Powers School of Law at Mercer University.

Shalonda Jones-Parker will replace Powers on the State Court.

Other appointments announced by Deal included: Jennifer E. Carver as Solicitor General of Bacon County; Robert M. Thomas as Solicitor General of Miller County; Alisa Adams Johnson as District Attorney of the Rockdale Judicial Circuit; and John A. “Trea” Pipkin III, Clint Bearden, Howard C. Kaufold, Jr. and T. Craig Earnest to Superior Court judgeships within the Flint, Northeastern, Oconee and Pataula Judicial Circuits.

Queer-run WUSSY raising funds for ‘The Queer Sex Issue’ Queer-run Atlanta-based publication WUSSY is raising funds for print costs and global distribution of “The Queer Sex Issue,” which will be released Jan. 25 at Atlanta Contemporary.

WUSSY produces WUSSY Mag, a seasonal boutique print magazine and WUSSY Rag, a bi-weekly print edition.

The WUSSY team also curates and produces events ranging from drag performances to poetry readings. Part of their mission is to create spaces for queer artists and, in keeping with that mission, they accept submissions from artists and writers throughout the southeast and beyond.

“We were overwhelmed by the volume and sheer quality of the work that was submitted for our previous two issues, and we can’t wait to see the next issue come to life,” said Jon Dean, WUSSY editor-in-chief, in a news release.

Donations will go toward the cost of printing, production for the cover story, www.thegeorgiavoice.com

WUSSY Rag (above) is a bi-weekly print edition. The group is raising money for the third installment of their seasonal boutique print magazine WUSSY Mag. (Courtesy photo)

production of rewards sent to donors and shipping. Donations can be made at www. indiegogo.com/projects/the-queer-sex-issuelgbt-magazine.

Georgia Log Cabin Republicans file ethics complaints The Georgia Log Cabin Republicans on Dec. 27 filed ethics complaints against state Sen. Nan Orrock (D-Atlanta) and state Rep. Bob Trammell (D-Luthersville) alleging campaign finance violations during the race for Atlanta mayor.

“Sen. Nan Grogan Orrock and Rep. Bob Trammell became financial conduits for campaign mischief when Atlanta mayoral candidate Keisha Lance Bottoms contributed more than $300,000 to the Georgia Democratic Party. Those funds were used to attack an independent mayoral candidate in a nonpartisan election by deceptively disclosing in extremely small letters ‘Vote for Nan Orrock for State Sen-

ate’ and ‘Vote for Bob Trammell for State House’ at the bottom of each mailer,” the group announced in a news release. “The cost of producing and mailing these attack mailers used in the premise to benefit both Sen. Orrock and Rep. Trammell clearly exceeded the maximum campaign contributions in-kind or monetary by hundreds of thousands of dollars and the Georgia Log Cabin Republicans demand that Sen. Nan Orrock and Rep. Bob Trammell return the monetary cost of these attack mailers.”

The Georgia Log Cabin Republicans are headed up by Jamie Ensley, who was campaign treasurer for Mary Norwood, the independent mayoral candidate referenced in the news release. Bottoms beat Norwood in a December runoff for mayor and was sworn in on Jan. 2. Openly gay Bishop O.C. Allen, III was one of the speakers at the inauguration ceremony at the Martin Luther King, Jr. International Chapel at Morehouse College.

January 5, 2018 News 7

FROM THE EDITOR’S DESK

Gather, resist, repeat

BY PATRICK SAUNDERS psaunders@thegavoice.com PO Box 77401 • Atlanta, GA 30357 P: 404-815-6941; F: 404-963-6365

EDITORIAL

Editor: Patrick Saunders psaunders@thegavoice.com Editorial Contributors: Ashleigh Atwell, Cliff Bostock, Dyana Bagby, Melissa Carter, Dallas A. Duncan, Jim Farmer, Elizabeth Friedly, Shannon Hames, Just Toby, Bill Kaelin, Ryan Lee, Robbie Medwed, Ronni Radner, Matt Schafer, Dionne N. Walker, Simon Williamson

PRODUCTION

Art Director: Rob Boeger rboeger@thegavoice.com

BUSINESS

Managing Partner/Publisher: Tim Boyd tboyd@thegavoice.com

SALES

Sales Executive: Dixon Taylor dtaylor@thegavoice.com Business Advisor: Lynn Pasqualetti Financial Firm of Record: HLM Financial Group National Advertising: Rivendell Media, 908-232-2021 sales@rivendellmedia.com Publisher Emeritus: Chris Cash

FINE PRINT

All material in Georgia Voice is protected by federal copyright law and may not be reproduced without the written consent of Georgia Voice. The sexual orientation of advertisers, photographers, writers and cartoonists published herein is neither inferred nor implied. The appearance of names or pictorial representation does not necessarily indicate the sexual orientation of that person or persons. We also do not accept responsibility for claims made by advertisers.

Unsolicited editorial material is accepted by Georgia Voice, but we do not take responsibility for its return. The editors reserve the right to accept, reject or edit any submission. Guidelines for freelance contributors are available upon request.

A single copy of Georgia Voice is available from authorized distribution points. Multiple copies are available from Georgia Voice office only. Call for rates. If you are unable to reach a convenient free distribution point, you may receive a 26-issue mailed subscription for $60 per year. Checks or credit card orders can be sent to Tim Boyd, tboyd@thegavoice.com Postmaster: Send address changes to Georgia Voice, PO Box 77401, Atlanta, GA 30357. Georgia Voice is published every other Friday by The Georgia Voice, LLC. Individual subscriptions are $60 per year for 26 issues. Postage paid at Atlanta, GA, and additional mailing offices.

The editorial positions of Georgia Voice are expressed in editorials and in editor’s notes. Other opinions are those of the writers and do not necessarily represent the opinion of Georgia Voice and its staff.

To submit a letter or commentary: Letters should be fewer than 400 words and commentary, for web or print, should be fewer than 750 words. Submissions may be edited for content and length, and must include a name, address and phone number for verification. Email submissions to editor@thegavoice.com or mail to the address above.

Join us online: facebook.com/thegavoice twitter.com/thegavoice instagram.com/thegeorgiavoice youtube.com/user/GAVoice

8 Editorial January 5, 2018

“The tricky part is that you all were bombarded with terrible news from so many different angles all year, so how do we make sure to stay in front of you and get you the stories you need to see? Keeping up a dialogue and staying engaged with you was key, and it’s something we want to get better and better about as we head into 2018.”

This time last year, I announced in this space that I was accepting the position of editor of Georgia Voice. The reason I gave was tied into what happened the previous November.

“Of the numerous reactions to the election of Donald Trump to the presidency of the United States — fear, anger, anxiety, disbelief — one of the common ones that emerged was a desire to get more involved in the electoral process, whether through a new or rededicated commitment to LGBT activism or an entry into politics. That same reaction was felt here with the Georgia Voice staff,” I wrote.

“For me personally, it made me think about what kind of role I want to have in the conversation going forward. What opportunities were there within my grasp that I could utilize to report on and speak out for Georgia’s LGBT community? For my community.”

Unfortunately, as you know, the president lived up to the hype. I won’t list all of the damage he did toward the LGBT community, as you know most or all of it by now.

But I will mention one thing that isn’t getting the attention it deserves: the judicial appointments. President Trump appointed a slew of anti-LGBT judges to lifetime appointments, meaning the assault on the community’s rights will continue long after he leaves office.

While all of this was going on throughout the year, we at Georgia Voice were determined to be aggressive in exposing any anti-LGBT acts carried out by anyone on either side of the aisle.

The tricky part is that you all were bombarded with terrible news from so many different angles all year, so how do we make sure to stay in front of you and get you the stories you need to see?

Keeping up a dialogue and staying engaged with you was key, and it’s something we want to get better and better about as we head into 2018.

That being said, I invite you — as I’ve done

all along — to call us out. Hold us accountable and tell us when we’re not getting it right, or not shedding light on people whose voices deserve to be raised up. You know which social media channels at which to reach us, or, as always, shoot me a line at editor@thegavoice.com.

We’ve got some new things coming your way this year by the way. Thanks to you, Georgia Voice is growing, and with that we’ll be distributing our print product farther and wider than we ever have before. Y’all have been giving us great feedback on what neighborhoods and areas of town around the state where you would like to see the paper. Keep it coming!

You’ll also see our distribution boxes getting an upgrade as well. It’s purely cosmetic, yes, but it’s overdue.

We’ve got some website upgrades that I won’t bore you with the details of, but rest assured you’ll benefit from it on your end of the screen.

And we also introduce a new monthly feature called Ask The Doctor, where the experts at AbsoluteCARE answer reader-submitted questions. The first installment is in this issue and it deals with PrEP. Send your questions via our social media channels or to askthedoctor@thegavoice.com.

And if you thought 2017 was a wild election year, get ready. Elections are being held this November for the top four statewide offices (including governor), every congressional seat and every state House and state Senate seat.

We’ll also be sitting down with Atlanta’s new mayor, Keisha Lance Bottoms, in the coming weeks. Have a question you want us to ask her? Let us know.

It’s going to be another memorable year with hopefully more ups than downs this time around, but just know that either way we’ll be right here with you for it all. We consider it an honor to do so.

FEEDBACK Re: “2017 Georgia Voice People of the Year: Georgia’s lost transgender citizens,” Dec. 23 “As a transgender woman living in North Carolina, soon to be my state’s first openly trans candidate for our state Legislature (I am making official announcement after Christmas), I want to thank you for not forgetting us!

Say Their Names – by Angela Bridgman Say their names, my sisters and brothers taken They the ones society has forsaken In life nor death given consideration They come from around the world, every nation Their entire lives, denied humanity When will we see the end of insanity?

What if we cared less about their chromosomes And welcomed them into our lives and homes?

What if, instead of showing them scorn and hate We allowed them in life to participate?

Maybe if we said their names while still alive Maybe if they were given a chance to thrive Maybe if in life their value not denied We’d not have to say their names when they have died.”

-Angela Bridgman via www.thegeorgiavoice.com Re: “Beautifully made ‘Call Me By Your Name’ waters down sexuality,” Dec. 30 “I will have to disagree with the statement about the film’s sexuality being watered down. The way the film develops is similar to what I remember experiencing in my early years of coming out. Being attracted to someone yet not letting them know because you’re not confident enough in your own sexuality at that age plus the fear of rejection if you did make a move first. The film develops anticipation for the audience between these two characters. When they finally do have sex, it was shot in a beautiful way. If you’re not satisfied with what you saw regarding their sexual encounter, you can go to many porn sites to see men having sex. This is the best movie I’ve seen in a long time about the coming together of these exceptional characters.”

-Douglas Michael Sturgess via www.thegeorgiavoice.com Want to be featured in Feedback? Leave a comment to a story via social media or on our website, or email editor@thegavoice.com with the subject line “Feedback.” www.thegeorgiavoice.com

www.thegeorgiavoice.com

January 5, 2018 Ads 9

IN THE MARGINS

By Ashleigh Atwell

Learning to love yourself during the resistance Ashleigh Atwell is a queer lesbian writer and organizer born and raised in Atlanta.

A couple of months ago, I went to a screen- but the rights of the whole community even ing of “Pay It No Mind,” a documentary when she was shunned by mainstream LGB about Stonewall rioter and transgender activ- activists. After the Pride movement was ist Marsha P. Johnson. The film told Johnson’s born, people like her were considered an emlife story through a series of interviews with barrassment to the movement. Additionally, her friends and Johnson herself. It was a rivet- Johnson’s friends admitted that she had an ing and poignant piece of work. “Pay It No untreated mental illness that could have posMind” described the life of someone with an sibly contributed to her mysterious death.

Johnson was one of scores of activists that unbreakable spirit despite experiencing sexual abuse, poverty and mental illness. Her friends sacrificed so much to a movement that didn’t gave multiple accounts of Johnson, despite always love her back. Erica Garner, daughter her own shaky finances, giving her last dollar of Eric Garner, a victim of police violence, had a heart attack on Christmas Eve and or morsel of food to other people in need.

After throwing “the shot glass heard died several days later. After the death of her around the world” at Stonewall, she dedi- father, Garner dedicated her life to fightAF_ATL_Ad_GeorgiaVoice_HalfPageHor_10x5_Male_FINALOUTLINES_Print.pdf 2 9/26/2017 5:32:53 PM cated her life to not only transgender rights ing against police brutality. Even after the

10 Editorial January 5, 2018

“I’ve taken a step back from community work for my own sanity. We go on and on about self-care but we aren’t practicing what we’re preaching.” news cycle moved on to another story, she persisted. Now, she’s gone. Activism is often thankless and it can take its toll. There have been multiple accounts of Black Lives Matter activists committing suicide.

I am friends with scores of organizers and activists and most of them have suffered from depression, anxiety or other forms of mental illness. I’ve taken a step back from community work for my own sanity. We go on and on about self-care but we aren’t practicing what we’re preaching.

Prior to the screening, I was talking to one of my friends and she asked me if I was taking care of myself. I admitted I wasn’t and she said something that shook me to my core.

“Your ancestors worked too hard and went through too much for you to not take care of yourself,” she told me with a raised eyebrow.

As a Black queer woman, I am my ancestors’ wildest dream. I am the descendant of enslaved people who survived the unspeakable. I am the legacy of the countless samegender-loving women that loved in a world that didn’t love them. Everything I am is because of them.

So are you.

I want to pass this on to any organizer reading these words. Take care of yourselves.

There will always be work to do and it’s okay to take some time for yourself. The movement will be here when you get back.

www.thegeorgiavoice.com

TAKE THE LEAD

Take an active role in your health.

Ask your doctor if an HIV medicine made by Gilead is right for you.

onepillchoices.com GILEAD and the GILEAD Logo are trademarks of Gilead Sciences, Inc. © 2017 Gilead Sciences, Inc. All rights reserved. UNBC4619 06/17

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9/19/17 3:24 PM

NEW YEAR, NEW YOU

Is boxing 2018’s workout of the year?

Old-fashioned sport attracting hordes of new fans in gyms throughout Atlanta

By DIONNE N. WALKER In a sprawling Buford Highway gym tucked between discount stores, men and women routinely shed their street clothes and transform into masters of the squared circle.

Sporting leggings and gym shorts, fancy athletic boots and plain old sneakers, they bob, weave, pounce and dance across the floor.

Some huff and pant through the regimen, punctuating their effort with frequent breaks.

Others seemingly feed on the challenge.

No matter their skill level or goals, one thing is certain, said gym owner and retired World Champion, Terri “The Boss” Moss: If you come to Buckhead Fight Club, you’ll get a workout your body won’t soon forget.

“It’s like strength conditioning, cardio and circuit training all at one time,” she said.

“It combines every single thing you can do out there in one compact workout.”

Just as sure as January ushers in a new year, it also brings a glut of men and women hoping to get a head start on tightening and toning their way to the perfect beach bod. And while each year seems to bring a new fitness craze — from Zumba to trap yoga — gym owners say boxing is an old-fashioned sport that is not only surviving but growing in popularity.

They point to its convenience as a challenging activity that requires relatively little equipment, and its effectiveness as a fullbody workout that’s not limited by age, weight or gender.

“You’re never going to overdo it — you’re not going to lift too much weight,” Moss said. “It uses only your own body weight, your own speed and your own power.”

ROUTINE MORE OLIVIA NEWTON-JOHN THAN ‘ROCKY’ Boxing your way to a sculpted physique is nothing new. Indeed, everyone from www.thegeorgiavoice.com

“You’re never going to overdo it — you’re not going to lift too much weight. It uses only your own body weight, your own speed and your own power.”

—Terri “The Boss” Moss, Hall of Fame boxer and owner of Buckhead Fight Club

model Gigi Hadid to Lisa “Sulli” Sullivan, the guitar tech of Atlanta’s own Indigo Girls, have credited boxing with ripping their abs and even helping them rehab from serious injuries.

Interest in the sport is only going to rise in 2018, predicted Marty Hill, owner of Sweet Science Fitness Boxing Club in Chamblee.

“I believe 2018 is going to be a breakout year for boxing fitness,” he said. “It’s always been on the cusp.”

He pointed to the rising popularity of specialized fitness regimens that offer a more personalized touch than the group fitness typically offered at big box gyms.

“Boutique fitness is really big right now and boxing fitness ties into boutique fitness,” he said. “People realize now if you want to get real results you have to be more specialized.”

There are dozens of places to give it a try in and around the city, with offerings ranging from the largely clinch- and kick-based Muay Thai to underwater aqua boxing. The range of choices can quickly become overwhelming, so experts say knowing what you’re looking to get out of boxing is key.

Many gyms offer a simple fitness boxing class. Where traditional boxing involves partnered sparring paired with intensive speed and cardio training, fitness boxing subtracts the hand-to-hand contact part.

The Sweet Science Fitness Boxing Club in Chamblee is one of several Atlanta-area options for fitness boxing. (Photos courtesy Sweet Science Fitness Boxing)

Instead, participants mix heart-pumping floor drills with turns punching bags, hitting pads and shadow boxing, as well as perfecting precision foot movements. Motions like pivoting, jabbing and bouncing, meanwhile, work your entire body, according to trainers.

And contrary to what many would-be participants think, you don’t have to fight anybody unless you want to.

The fitness routine is a little more Olivia Newton-John than “Rocky.” But it’s no less challenging.

FREE TRIAL LEADS TO SUCCESS FOR ATLANTA EMT A recent Thursday night found Moss and her team of trainers putting about 50 adults and kids through their paces in her high-energy, underground gym.

On rubber mats, a dozen men and women panted and grimaced their way through squats. Later, they headed to the bags for a rapid-fire punching session followed by still more floor drills.

Across the gym, a more advanced group mirrored Moss on a circuit that included zig-zagging through a maze of hanging punching bags. Next, they followed her to the ring, each taking turns trying to hit the sprightly 51-year-old’s padded palms.

A southern girl raised on fat-rich comfort food staples, EMT Lindsey Struck carried 255 pounds on her 5-foot-2-inch frame when Moss, who was training her wife, offered her a free trial at the gym.

“I was like OK she gave me a membership, I guess I’d better go,” said Struck, who despite playing softball and other sports, had maintained a larger frame.

She went on to drop 70 pounds and become a boxing convert.

“Your stamina and your endurance just totally increase to something you would never believe,” she said.

Moss said beginners should plan to train about three times a week. With regimens burning up to 200 calories a minute, Moss said it’s realistic to start looking for early results within two weeks.

Be very clear on your fitness goals and choose a gym with a record of accommodating those specific goals, Hill said.

“Are you looking to become a competitive boxer, are you looking to use boxing fitness for weight loss, conditioning and stress relief?” he said. “It’s really number one knowing exactly what you’re looking for and finding exactly the right environment that’s going to get you to your goals.”

As long as you are cleared for physical activity, you should be able to participate, though some doctors advise that you stick to shadow boxing only if you have arthritis.

Be ready to put in lots of sweat equity and enjoy the fruits of knowing you are taking care of yourself.

“Without your health, there’s not really a whole lot you can do for yourself,” Struck said. “It’s important because you’re the only you that you have.”

January 5, 2018 New Year, New You 13

ASK THE DOCTOR

By JEWEL SAWYER, PA-C, MSHS, AAHIVS “Since PrEP requires a daily pill, called Truvada, it’s important that you are willing and able to stick to a routine.

PrEP must be taken consistently. PrEP is still effective if a day is missed, however the level of HIV protection may decrease, so you must be committed to adhering to the daily schedule.”

Ask The Doctor is a monthly health column where the experts at AbsoluteCARE answer your pressing medical questions. Have a question you want answered? Email it to askthedoctor@thegavoice.com!

Q: I’m a 27-year-old gay man and I’m considering whether to take PrEP or not.

What factors should I consider in making my decision? And isn’t it pricey?

A: Anyone who wants to minimize their risk of getting HIV may be a candidate, but there are several factors to consider when deciding if pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) is right for you. Since PrEP requires a daily pill, called Truvada, it’s important that you are willing and able to stick to a routine. PrEP must be taken consistently. PrEP is still effective if a day is missed, however the level of HIV protection may decrease, so you must be committed to adhering to the daily schedule.

PrEP may be beneficial if any of the following classifications describe you: Have a relationship with an HIVpositive partner n Have more than one sexual partner or are in an open relationship n Are unaware of a partner’s HIV status n Infrequently use condoms n Have been diagnosed with a sexually transmitted illness (STI) in the past year n Have participated in sex work n Have had to take post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) for HIV in the past year n Are currently an intravenous drug user n

It’s important to note that PrEP does not begin to work immediately. PrEP needs to be taken daily for at least seven days for men and upwards of three weeks for women.

Side effects are typically minimal, but occasionally include nausea, fatigue and dizzi-

ness. PrEP will not protect you from other STIs such as syphilis, gonorrhea or chlamydia, so it is recommended that PrEP be combined with condom use.

PrEP is covered by most insurance plans.

Some companies may require a pre-authorization to determine if you are eligible. For those without insurance coverage, Gilead, the drug company that produces Truvada, has a very liberal and generous patient assistance program.

When taken every day, PrEP has been shown to reduce the risk of HIV infection in people who are at elevated risk by more than 90 percent. Based on the above, if you feel you may be a suitable candidate for PrEP and are interested in learning more, please make an appointment. If you schedule a visit with one of AbsoluteCARE’s experienced PrEP providers, we’ll discuss your health history and goals, what to expect while on PrEP, share information about Truvada, take baseline labs (including an STI screening and complete metabolic panels) and provide safer sex counseling. We’ll then expect to meet with you quarterly to do follow-up lab work and continue health education and counseling.

14 New Year, New You January 5, 2018 www.thegeorgiavoice.com

In adults with HIV on ART who have diarrhea not caused by an infection IMPORTANT PATIENT INFORMATION This is only a summary. See complete Prescribing Information at Mytesi.com or by calling 1-844-722-8256. This does not take the place of talking with your doctor about your medical condition or treatment.

What Is Mytesi?

Mytesi is a prescription medicine used to improve symptoms of noninfectious diarrhea (diarrhea not caused by a bacterial, viral, or parasitic infection) in adults living with HIV/AIDS on ART. Do Not Take Mytesi if you have diarrhea caused by an infection. Before you start Mytesi, your doctor and you should make sure your diarrhea is not caused by an infection (such as bacteria, virus, or parasite).

Possible Side Effects of Mytesi Include:

Tired of planning your life around diarrhea?

Enough is Enough Get relief. Pure and simple. Ask your doctor about Mytesi.

Mytesi (crofelemer): • Is the only medicine FDA-approved to relieve diarrhea in people with HIV • Treats diarrhea differently by normalizing the flow of water in the GI tract • Has the same or fewer side effects as placebo in clinical studies • Comes from a tree sustainably harvested in the Amazon Rainforest What is Mytesi?

Mytesi is a prescription medicine that helps relieve symptoms of diarrhea not caused by an infection (noninfectious) in adults living with HIV/AIDS on antiretroviral therapy (ART).

Important Safety Information Mytesi is not approved to treat infectious diarrhea (diarrhea caused by bacteria, a virus, or a parasite). Before starting you on Mytesi, your healthcare provider will first be sure that you do not have infectious diarrhea. Otherwise, there is a risk you would not receive the right medicine and your infection could get worse. In clinical studies, the most common side effects that occurred more often than with placebo were upper respiratory tract (sinus, nose, and throat) infection (5.7%), bronchitis (3.9%), cough (3.5%), flatulence (3.1%), and increased bilirubin (3.1%).

Should I Take Mytesi If I Am: Pregnant or Planning to Become Pregnant?

• Studies in animals show that Mytesi could harm an unborn baby or affect the ability to become pregnant • There are no studies in pregnant women taking Mytesi • This drug should only be used during pregnancy if clearly needed A Nursing Mother?

• It is not known whether Mytesi is passed through human breast milk • If you are nursing, you should tell your doctor before starting Mytesi • Your doctor will help you to decide whether to stop nursing or to stop taking Mytesi Under 18 or Over 65 Years of Age? • Mytesi has not been studied in children under 18 years of age • Mytesi studies did not include many people over the age of 65. So it is not clear if this age group will respond differently. Talk to your doctor to find out if Mytesi is right for you

What Should I Know About Taking Mytesi With Other Medicines?

If you are taking any prescription or over-the-counter medicine, herbal supplements, or vitamins, tell your doctor before starting Mytesi.

What If I Have More Questions About Mytesi?

For more information, please see the full Prescribing Information at Mytesi.com or speak to your doctor or pharmacist.

To report side effects or make a product complaint or for additional information, call 1-844-722-8256.

Rx Only Manufactured by Patheon, Inc. for Napo Pharmaceuticals, Inc. San Francisco, CA 94105 Copyright © Napo Pharmaceuticals, Inc.

For Copay Savings Card and Patient Assistance, see Mytesi.com

Mytesi comes from the Croton lechleri tree harvested in South America.

Please see complete Prescribing Information at Mytesi.com.

NP-390-14

• Upper respiratory tract infection (sinus, nose, and throat infection) • Bronchitis (swelling in the tubes that carry air to and from your lungs) • Cough • Flatulence (gas) • Increased bilirubin (a waste product when red blood cells break down) For a full list of side effects, please talk to your doctor. Tell your doctor if you have any side effect that bothers you or does not go away.

You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit www.fda.gov/medwatch or call 1-800-FDA-1088.

RELIEF, PURE AND SIMPLE

NEW YEAR, NEW YOU

2018’s fashion must-haves New year brings softer feminine look, casual menswear

By DALLAS ANNE DUNCAN Shortly before Christmas, fashion magazine Vogue unveiled its predictions for 2018.

Among them was coed runway shows.

“Over a dozen fashion brands have announced that they will be blending their men’s and women’s shows,” writer Steff Yotka reported. “With tired notions of gendered fashion going by the wayside, this is a phenomenon we expect to stick around for a while.”

Though some runway shows may eschew the idea of gender separation, there are still distinct fashion influences geared toward both the feminine and the masculine in the new year.

BRINGING FEMININITY BACK “[2017] was more industrial; a lot of jeans that were like, deconstructed, and a lot of boots,” said Robin Bolden, stylist at Squash Blossom Boutique in Atlanta.

“Now it’s bringing back femininity. … It’s really softening the woman up for 2018.”

This means lines are moving toward lighter fabrics and softer colors for 2018.

Bolden predicts pastels will be the main color trend, and mix-and-max prints are close behind. Some of the more unisex clothing styles are fading away — but cargo pants are the new hot commodity. So are more conservatively-cut fitted pieces.

If you bought high-waisted jeans last year, don’t worry. Bolden told Georgia Voice those are not going away. Neither are denim jackets and the flowy, Bohemian look. That fashion trend may have something to do with California-casual Meghan Markle taking an international spotlight in preparation for her impending nuptials to Prince Harry.

The fanny pack will be replaced by mi-

Clockwise from above: A Nana Judy shirt with zip pockets and raw edge hem, a Publish Brand cardigan with a kimono influence, a Publish Brand jacket with emroidered details, a flowy and Bohemian look and the surprise hot commodity: cargo pants. (Courtesy photos)

cro-mini purses, which Vogue calls “carry-nothings,” and hair accessories are a must, Bolden said. Yes, children of the ’90s: this means the scrunchie is back.

TRENDING CASUAL Masculine fashion is headed in the direction of streetwear, said Rocky Carroll, store manager and buyer for Boy Next Door in Atlanta. It’s casual, but not overly deconstructed — for example, ripped jeans are more whole than holes in 2018.

“There’s another trend starting up which is called ‘elevated basics,’” Carroll said.

“You’re wearing solid colors, there’s going to be some prints, but the prints are a higherend type design.”

These prints aren’t pre-printed on the fabric, but are usually embroidered, appliquéd or jacquard. Tone-on-tone prints, such as Boy Next Door’s gloss and matte black-on-black

camouflage apparel, are another example.

2018’s color palette is earth tones: olive, camel, mauve, orange and rose, Carroll said. Masculine fashion will also start playing more with proportion, taking cues from layered kimono looks.

“Everybody in the community has been doing skinny and slim everything. What we’re getting into is kind of oversized shirts for men and slim or slim-skinny pants,” Carroll said. “The top is doing the drop shoulder. We’ve been doing slim shirts for so long that it’s nice to have a little bit baggier shirts so you’re not so squeezed into a T-shirt.”

And pants won’t have to be full-length.

Carroll said crop pants with coordinating socks and sneakers create a continuous legline for a slightly updated silhouette.

WHAT’S OUT Though the elevated basic prints will be everywhere in 2018, most other prints won’t be anywhere near masculine fashion lines, Carroll said. He added that camouflage seemed to be the only all-over print to stay in 2018, something that could be attributed to the political climate and a desire for military-inspired looks.

Joggers, a style of athletic pant with elastic waistband and ankle cuffs, are out for the year. Carroll predicted that similar styles will stay, but the elastic cuffs are now dated.

As pastels and lighter fabrics hit clothing racks, those who shop for more feminine fashions will notice rich, dark colors went the way of the dodo for 2018. Wide-brimmed hats also disappeared, Bolden said.

16 New Year, New You January 5, 2018 www.thegeorgiavoice.com

NEW YEAR, NEW YOU

2018 to be year of natural hair trends Gray blending, more subtle highlights popular in the new year

By DALLAS ANNE DUNCAN 2018 may be the year of the dog, but in the hair world, it’s the year of embracing the natural. Whether you prefer a masculine, feminine or androgynous look, and no matter the texture of your hair, excessive product is out and effortless is in.

“Definitely natural texture for everyone. People are getting away from the chemical relaxers and straighteners,” said Michael Joseph, a stylist at Helmet salon in Midtown. “There’s new styling products that can help that, but natural texture, embracing what’s growing out of their head.

Especially with African-American hair, embracing the natural texture and learning how to take care of it.”

HAIR CAMOUFLAGE One way men embrace the natural trend is by going gray. Though the silver hair trend is still in for all genders, a new process called gray blending is gaining traction with men whose hair is turning silver on its own.

“People are seeing salt-and-pepper grays and don’t want it covered up, just camouflaged,” Joseph said. “This is a demi-permanent color. A permanent color shows a line of demarcation as it grows out. This shampoos out between four and six weeks.”

For masculine haircuts, the look is natural and classic, but with a little unkemptness on top. Joseph said the hard lines for fades and tapered cuts are phasing out, and most customers opt for more texture and softer edges in those styles.

“We’re seeing a haircut that can go from a more formal event that then can do more disheveled and relaxed on the weekend,” Joseph said.

Man buns are out, but some of the wilder, jewel-tone colors found their ways into masculine cuts. For facial hair, well-groomed www.thegeorgiavoice.com

Clockwise from above: Gray blending, natural highlights, the long bob or ‘lob’ and the old fashioned ‘pornstache.’

(Courtesy photos)

beards are on-trend — and “the pornstache is back,” Joseph said.

NATURAL FEMININITY “Lower-maintenance color is going to be a big thing,” Joseph said. “Subtle highlighting — it can be subtle all the way up to super platinum, but it is going to be more attuned to what the person has growing out of their head. No more black to platinum; more caramels and chocolates.”

Tennis star Serena Williams debuted her natural-look highlights on Instagram, and Essence declared the look an instant slay.

Though some plan to keep their mermaid and unicorn locks in 2018, the big color in the new year isn’t inspired by a mythical creature. Burnt red is the new “it” hue, featuring shades of brown, red and copper.

The bob isn’t going anywhere this year except maybe longer: both Joseph and InStyle say “the lob” is still embraced.

“Straight or wavy, with a long bob you’ve got styling options,” according to InStyle’s 2018 hair predictions. “The fact that the cut flatters every face shape, along with a number of hair textures, is exactly why it’s so popular.”

Since the scrunchie is once again readily available, the high ponytail is also making a comeback.

“Celebs have demonstrated that with a few tweaks, the look adds elegance and ease to every outfit, whether you wear the style to Saturday nights with your friends or a Sunday morning

Pilates class,” InStyle reported. “Wear it with a sleek tail ... or loose, cascading waves. Make the style even more effortless by wrapping a strand from the tail around the base of the pony to conceal the hair elastic holding it in place.”

SCALP CARE “Healthy hair is rooted in the scalp.

There are salons popping up that are scalp facial-type salons,” Joseph said.

His salon offers this now-trendy service to re-balance dry or oily scalps with a professional-grade mask.

“It helps the good bacteria grow; it gets rid of all the bad bacteria and dander,” he said.

January 5, 2018 New Year, New You 17

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REVIEWS

TER AIN M T

Live literature group for women and non-binary people hosts latest show Jan. 15

By SHANNON HAMES The Bleux Stockings Society is a group of cisgender and transgender women and non-binary people that gather on a monthly basis to host live literature shows. A theme is announced in advance and the pieces 18 Best Bets January 5, 2018

Bleux Stockings Society to ‘triumph’ in new show

submitted that best fit the theme are chosen to be read by their authors. Each performer is then given five to seven minutes to read their work aloud. A portion of the $10 cover goes to a women’s charity.

Gearing up for the “Triumph”-themed showcase on Jan. 15, co-founder Amy Tecosky pointed out that this show will be the group’s two-year anniversary.

“I started it in January of 2016 with original co-founder/producer, Ellaree Yeagley,” Tecosky told Georgia Voice. “The Bleux Stockings Society, or BSS, was born out of a desire to provide a space for often under-

represented voices in a safe, comfortable environment. The hope was that we would serve as a jumping-off point for writers who were new to performing and wanted to test the waters.”

The show is near and dear to the heart of co-producer Rita Leslie too.

“For me,” she explained, “my origin story is two-fold because I actually performed at the very first show. So when asked to jump in as co-producer about a year-anda-half ago, it was a no-brainer. I knew BSS was special and I couldn’t wait to add value to an already thriving live-lit community.”

Intersectional spin on an 18th century idea Tecosky said she came up with the idea for the group when she was in high school.

“The original Blue Stockings Society was an academic and creative salon for women in the 1750s,” she said. “It was a radical idea for the time period. After joining the Atlanta literary community, I revisited the idea; I loved the concept of women (both cis and trans) and non-binary people having their own ‘salon’ of sorts — a space to reflect and CONTINUES ON PAGE 19

www.thegeorgiavoice.com

The Bleux Stockings Society was founded in January 2016 and hosts its 15th show on Jan. 15. (Courtesy photo) CONTINUED FROM PAGE 18

unwind and connect.

“When Ellaree [the original co-founder and producer] and I started really percolating on it,” she continued, “we knew we’d have to tweak the name just a bit as the original group only included wealthy white women. The idea was to adopt their concept and put an intersectional spin on it. We wanted to keep the good without excusing their exclusivity, which is why we changed ‘Blue’ to ‘Bleux’; It’s an amalgam of the French word ‘deux’ (or two), and the words ‘bleu’ and ‘redux.’ Though I’m sure we’ve offended French speakers everywhere, we felt it was a good way to provide a distinction as the ‘second wave,’ if you will, while still paying homage to the source group.”

Tecosky said the group has been “surprisingly successful” and she loves working alongside Leslie.

“Rita is an absolutely incredible producer who is adept at encouraging new performers to finally take the plunge,” she said. “I feel lucky to be her co-showrunner.”

Leslie agreed.

“We wanted to create a platform for marginalized voices,” she said. “There are several live-lit shows, but none that specifically cater to women, women of color, LGBTQIA, trans and non-binary folks. People need to know that there’s a place they can go and be heard, especially in today’s heightened political climate.”

For Tecosky, it’s all about representation.

“It’s difficult and scary to get up on stage in front of large groups of strangers, but it’s easier when those people share some of your lived experiences,” she said. “BSS offers women and non-binary people a chance to recharge and celebrate each other in a space that isn’t always available to them.”

Leslie added, “The shows are always brimming with energy and anticipation.” www.thegeorgiavoice.com

Details

Bleux Stockings Society Volume 15: Triumph Monday, Jan. 15 at 8:30 p.m.

Highland Inn & Ballroom Lounge 644 N. Highland Ave. N.E. Atlanta, GA 30306 Tickets $10 www.facebook.com/ events/422901874779040 Efforts made to combat cold feet The group offers both public and private events to make the writers feel more safe and comfortable. A show will feature eight performers of varying experience levels interpreting their take on the monthly theme, and each writer has about seven minutes to read their piece.

“In the past,” Tecosky said, “we’ve included a stand-up comedy show — which we hope to bring back this year — and a music-only event at the EARL. We also plan to do more collaboration this year with other monthly lit and poetry events around town.”

Cold feet hinders some writers from submitting their work to perform. BSS is sensitive to that and works to help acclimate newbies.

“It can be extremely intimidating to hop on that stage for the first time,” Tecosky said.

“We love new performers and are dedicated to getting them on stage. Whether they’re into fiction, personal essay, poetry or any other kind of writing, we want to hear what they have to say. Don’t be shy!”

BSS has a public Facebook page to advertise their events with submission details.

They also have a private page for their members to stay connected.

“We’ve been fortunate enough to witness some powerful performances together,” Tecosky said. “I have high hopes that our fantastic BSS community will keep bringing their best work forward.”

January 5, 2018 A&E 19

ACTING OUT

By JIM FARMER

Actor’s Express taking on timely ‘Angels in America’

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It’s one of the most important and respected plays of the last 30 years, but, with its lengthy running time (two halves equaling roughly seven hours of theater), “Angels in America” is not produced often. Nonetheless, Actor’s Express is giving the Tony Award- and Pulitzer Prize-winning production dealing with the AIDS crisis and with several gay characters a go next week.

This is the first time Actor’s Express has staged the show, which was first staged in Atlanta by the Alliance Theatre in the mid-1990s.

“We’ve thought about it frequently over the years, but the time was finally right to move forward,” said Freddie Ashley, the company’s artistic director.

When the Tony Kushner-penned play premiered, it was immensely successful, but no one knew it would have such a legacy.

To Ashley, the show is powerful and vital, especially since HIV/AIDS remains an issue. “‘Angels in America’ gets to the heart of what it means to be an American,” he said.

“At this moment in time, I think a lot of us are wrestling with that question. When I was in college and this was a new play, the conventional wisdom at the time was that this play would have a short shelf life and that its relevance would diminish as we addressed issues of HIV and AIDS. And yet the play is produced now with just as much frequency as when it was newer. For one thing, AIDS may no longer be terminal, but HIV infection rates are still alarmingly high.”

Like “The Crucible,” which the company produced last winter, “Angels in America” is also exceptionally timely in its themes.

“It’s eerie how some of the lines in the play, written about 1980s Reagan-era conservatism, ring true about today’s America as well,” said Ashley.

The ensemble includes Robert Bryan Davis, Carolyn Cook, Grant Chapman, Parris Sarter, Louis Greggory, Cara Mantella, Joe Sykes and Thandiwe DeShazor. Ashley lauds the cast, not just for the amount of material involved but for the emotional and physical challenges.

He is directing the show alongside Martin Damien Wilkins, who directed the

Joe Sykes and Louis Greggory, left to right, in ‘Angels in America.’ (Photo by We Monsters)

Details

“Angels in America” “Part One: Millennium Approaches” premieres Jan. 11 and “Part Two: Perestroika” premieres Jan.18, running through Feb. 17 Actor’s Express 87 West Marietta St. Atlanta, GA 30318 www.actorsexpress.com

company’s “Father Comes Home From the Wars (Parts 1, 2 and 3)” last year. Wilkins is tackling the first part (“Millennium Approaches”) and Ashley is directing the second (“Perestroika”).

“What I’ve really liked about the process so far is the chance to collaborate directly with another director,” said Ashley. “As directors, we collaborate with actors and designers all the time, but we never get the opportunity to work with other directors. And when you have two directors who admire each other’s work and respect each other as much as Martin and I do, then there are some very exciting possibilities to work in a way that is completely new.”

While the shows are running in rep, both halves will be staged on Saturdays, “Millennium Approaches” in the afternoon and “Perestroika” at night. Ashley is also making it a point to partner with various nonprofit organizations in the area to be able to connect with diverse audiences.

20 A&E January 5, 2018 www.thegeorgiavoice.com

EATING MY WORDS

By CLIFF BOSTOCK

A food hall fail and two off-the-beaten-path picks The food scene, like everything else in our culture, is subject to fads. Once upon a time, kiwi fruit was high-fashion, along with fake white truffle oil. Kale, my sources tell me, is finally starting to falter and hopefully will soon return to its former use as an inedible liner for buffet bars. And then there were the food trucks, dispensing overpriced street food, much of which a carnival worker on death row wouldn’t eat for his last meal.

Now, you’ve probably noticed, the food trucks have joined tornado-ravaged mobile homes in that big trailer park in the sky. That, I hypothesize, is mainly because of the appearance of gigantic food halls like Krog Street Market and Ponce City Market, which combine a few full-service restaurants with lots of stalls basically selling better-quality food-truck fare.

The fad is in its manic stage. A micro-hall, Canteen, has opened in Technology Square.

It’s a mere four stalls from the people who run West Egg Café and General Muir — faves in my book. You can get Todd Ginsberg’s sandwiches and legendary burger (Fred’s Meat & Bread) and his Middle Eastern fare (Yalla), plus some bagel-centric deli food (TGM Bagel) and juice concoctions and cocktails (Square Bar).

It’s all good. Meanwhile, television celebrity Harry Pagansoss has opened Harry’s Caravaca, on Peachtree. Colony Square plans to open Main & Main, and many more are opening in the northern hinterlands of Alpharetta and Duluth. There’s already a super-popular one that’s part of the Braves’ new stadium, SunTrust Park, in Cobb County.

It’s all good, I suppose, even though I’ve already come to dislike them. Friends and I hit Ponce City Market last Friday. Granted, it was the holiday season, but it felt like an apocalyptic millennial food fight was about to begin at any moment. There are not enough tables in the hall to eat food grabbed from the stalls. The smaller full-service places were chaotic. In one, the host tried to cram three of us at a table meant for two.

We got up and left. Finally, we ended at Hop’s Chicken, which I’ve enjoyed immensely in the past. But our fried chicken, thrown into boxes, www.thegeorgiavoice.com

A recent visit to Ponce City Market left Cliff Bostock feeling like ‘an apocalyptic millennial food fight was about to begin at any moment.’ (Courtesy photo)

ended up steamed, losing its crunch. I’ve heard many complaints that the food quality generally has dropped at the market. So you might want to do yourself a favor and explore the city’s exponentially growing new casual restaurants.

HERE AND THERE: Christiane Lauterbach publishes the city’s best resource for off-the-beaten-path restaurants, “Knife & Fork.” It’s not online, so you have to call her at 404-378-2775 to subscribe; it’s offering holiday rates now. In this month’s issue, she gives a three-star, high rating to Jog-Ga-A-DongChim in Duluth (3751 Satellite Blvd., 770558-3763). The big winner there is a boiled pig knuckle, gigantic enough that a small one serves two or three people and comes with soup and a ton of pickles and sauces. Christiane also gives high marks to Muchacho (904 Memorial Dr., 404-748-9254). It’s open 7 a.m-4 p.m. for breakfast and lunch. Its culinary director is the fabulous Taria Camerino, our city’s preeminent chocolatier and pastry chef. You can get breakfast tacos, grain bowls, egg-topped avocado toast, poke bowls and pastries.

Cliff Bostock is a former psychotherapist now specializing in life coaching. Contact him at 404-518-4415 or cliffbostock@gmail.com.

January 5, 2018 Columnists 21

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Our Guide to the Best LGBT Events in Atlanta for Jan. 5-18

EVEN

TUESDAY, JAN. 9

The acclaimed gay film “Call Me By Your Name” with Armie Hammer and Timothee Chalamet — adapted from the beloved book — continues at the Midtown Art Cinema and AMC Phipps Plaza today, various showtimes, www.landmarktheatres.com/atlanta/ midtown-art-cinema, www.amctheatres.com/movie-theatres/atlanta/amc-phipps-plaza-14 (Publicity photo)

FRIDAY, JAN. 5

Christmas is over – but don’t just put that tree anywhere. Bring it to the gay-owned Noni’s where it will be thrown in a custom fire pit as part of Noni’s monthly bonfire series. 5 p.m. – 3 a.m., 357 Edgewood Ave. S.E., Atlanta, GA 30312, www.facebook. com/events/1783810125245171 OnStage Atlanta presents the regional premiere of “Silence! The Musical,” a parody of the book and film “The Silence of the Lambs.” Keep the kids at home — this one’s for adults only! 8 p.m., running through Jan. 19, 2969 E. Ponce de Leon Ave. # A, Decatur, GA 30030, www.facebook.com/events/111814696122996 Wussy Magazine and Queeriety bring you a night of queer comedy featuring some of the best queer improvisers, stand-up comedians and sketch writers. The evening will feature two sets by Atlanta’s finest group of queer comedians, including an improvised version of Queer Drunk History with some of the ATL’s finest drag queens

22 Best Bets January 5, 2018

drunkenly regaling you with tales of queer pioneers throughout history. Special guests include Brigitte Bidet, Dax Exclamation Point, Ian Aber, Jay Norris, Jaye Lish, Julie Osborne, Molly Rimswell, Peaches (Travis Denison), Princess Charles, Stevie King and the cast of Queeriety, 9:30 p.m. – 12:30 a.m., 7 Stages Theatre, 1105 Euclid Ave. N.E., Atlanta, GA 30307, www.facebook. com/events/127476167947150

SATURDAY, JAN. 6

Love to sing? Come audition for the 2018 Atlanta Gay Men’s Chorus spring and summer concerts: “Midnight Train: The Georgia and Alabama Tour” and “Broadway Now!” 10 a.m. – 4 p.m., St. Mark United Methodist Church, 781 Peachtree St. N.E., Atlanta, GA 30308, www.facebook.com/ events/2013221068892652 Atlanta Prime Timers meet today at 3 p.m., Phillip Rush Center Annex, 1530 DeKalb Ave., Atlanta, GA 30307, www.rushcenteratl.org

Miss Terra Cotta Sugarbaker will share some of her favorite seasonal stories, including Farrah McDoogle’s “Olivia Builds a Snowlady,” today at the Ponce de Leon Branch Library as part of Winter Wonderland Storytime. Following the reading, children will make their own snow people and enjoy hot cocoa, 3 – 4 p.m., 980 Ponce de Leon Ave. N.E., Atlanta, GA 30306, www.facebook.com/ events/709046745968020 Join Atlanta OutWorlders for the first Game Night of the year, always on the first Saturday of every month, 7 p.m. – 2 a.m., 1833 Streamview Drive S.E., Atlanta, GA 30316-3670, www.facebook.com/ events/2067486730154367

SUNDAY, JAN. 7

Several LGBT-themed movies and television shows are in competition at the Golden Globe Awards, 8 p.m., NBC

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EVENT SPOTLIGHT SUNDAY, JAN. 7

Get set for the monthly Cowtippers Heifer Review today. The cast is ready to perform their favorite new numbers as Ruby Redd and her stable of heifers stampede down for “New Year, New You.” 1 – 4 p.m., Cowtippers Steaks & Spirits, 1600 Piedmont Ave. N.E., Atlanta, GA 30324, www.facebook.com/events/261113641085551 (File photo)

www.thegeorgiavoice.com

TELL US ABOUT YOUR LGBT EVENT Submit your LGBT event for inclusion in our online and print calendars by emailing event info to editor@thegavoice.com

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 22

MONDAY, JAN. 8

Go Dawgs! The University of Georgia faces the University of Alabama for the national championship tonight at Mercedes-Benz Stadium, 1 AMB Drive, Atlanta, GA 30313

WEDNESDAY, JAN. 10

Join the Counter Narrative Project tonight for a staged reading of the gaythemed, highly acclaimed play “Choir Boy” by Academy Award-winner Tarell Alvin McCraney, 7 – 9 p.m., Auburn Avenue Research Library, 101 Auburn Ave. N.E., Atlanta, GA 30303, www.facebook.com/events/570764656593771 The Black Women’s Wellness Vision Board Party is today, sponsored by the Feminist Women’s Health Center.

The purpose of the Black Women’s Wellness Program is to equip black women with resources to take ownership of their mental, physical and emotional wellness and developing innovative ways for black women to overcome large scale disparities through community involvement, advocacy and public policy, 7:30- 9 p.m., Charis Books and More, 1189 Euclid Ave. N.E., Atlanta, GA 30307, www.charisbooksandmore.com

THURSDAY, JAN. 11

SAGE Atlanta’s bi-monthly meetings occur from 10:30 a.m. – 1 p.m. on the second and fourth Thursday of each month, Phillip Rush Center Annex, 1530 DeKalb Ave., Atlanta, GA 30307, www.rushcenteratl.org Actor’s Express begins previews for its version of Tony Kushner’s epic, AIDSthemed “Angels in America” tonight at 7:30 p.m., with “Part One: Millennium Approaches.” “Part Two: Perestroika” begins previews on Jan. 18, running through Feb. 17, 887 West Marietta St. N.W., Atlanta, GA 30318,

www.thegeorgiavoice.com

WEDNESDAY, JAN. 10

The visually stunning, Tony Award-winning musical “The Lion King,” with music by Elton John, returns to Atlanta tonight, running through Jan. 28, 7:30 p.m., Fox Theatre, 660 Peachtree St. N.E, Atlanta, GA 30308, www.foxtheatre.org (Publicity photo) www.actorsexpress.com

FRIDAY, JAN. 12

Feeling a bit frisky? Come to Underwear Night at the Atlanta Eagle, 7 p.m. – 3 a.m., 306 Ponce de Leon Ave., Atlanta, GA 30308, www.atlantaeagle.com Lesbians Love Atlanta and Kia and Co. present the Outstaged Lesbian Speakeasy, 8 – 10 p.m., My Sister’s Room, 66 12th St., Atlanta, GA 30309, www.mysistersroom.com

SATURDAY, JAN. 13

If you are ready to let your legislators hear from you, learn how today at Georgia Equality’s Advocacy Training. This training provided by Georgia Equality staff will provide you with the tools necessary to make an impact on issues you care about, beginning with a Legislative Update/Overview for the work ahead in 2018. LGBTQ and supportive voices are going to be critical at the state Capitol again this year as full non-discrimination

protections are sought. 1 – 4 p.m., Rush Center, 1530 DeKalb Ave., Suite A, Atlanta, GA 30307, www.facebook.com/ events/298704363974643 Hail to the Armorettes, who will be hosting their 39th annual anniversary show tonight with musical numbers and special guests, 8 – 10 p.m., Heretic Atlanta, 2069 Cheshire Bridge Road N.E., Atlanta, GA 30324, www.facebook.com/ events/176907232898690

SUNDAY, JAN. 14

Come join THRIVE SS Inc. for the Martin Luther King Sexy Onesie Party. This is a fundraiser for THRIVE SS Inc., an Atlanta nonprofit helping people live healthy with HIV. All proceeds will go to this organization. Cash prizes will be given to best onesie, 9 p.m. – 2 a.m., 150 Pine St. N.W., Atlanta, GA 30308, www.facebook.com/ events/2020341734921806

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EVENT SPOTLIGHT THURSDAY, JAN. 11

The Callanwolde Fine Arts Center Gallery presents the opening night reception of “When the Levee Breaks,” a solo exhibition by Atlanta artist Alli Royce Soble, winner of the Best in Show Award in the 2017 Callanwolde Juried Art Exhibition, curated by Susan Bridges of Whitespace Gallery. 7 – 9 p.m. Callanwolde Fine Arts Center, 980 Briarcliff Road N.E., Atlanta, GA 30306 www.facebook.com/ events/135822350434392 (File photo)

January 5, 2018 Best Bets 23

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MONDAY, JAN. 15

MLK Day of Service is a “day on, not a day off.” It is a way to transform Dr. King’s life and teachings into community action to help bring together people, strengthen communities and meet national challenges.

Join HRC Atlanta for a service project benefiting Lost-n-Found Youth, which provides shelter and services for homeless and at-risk LGBTQ youth. Volunteers will be cleaning and organizing the Lost-nFound Youth thrift stores, noon – 11:59 p.m., 2585 Chantilly Drive N.E., Atlanta, GA 30324, www.facebook.com/ events/915335328633447 Trans and Friends is a youth-focused group for trans people, people questioning their own gender and aspiring allies, providing a facilitated space to discuss gender, relevant resources and activism around social issues. 7 – 8:30 p.m., Charis Books and More, 1189 Euclid Ave. N.E., Atlanta, GA 30307, www.charisbooksandmore.com The Bleux Stockings Society is a monthly live literature show featuring cis/

trans women and non-binary people. The theme is announced in advance and the pieces that best fit the theme are chosen.

Each performer gets five to seven minutes to read their piece. The cover is $10 and a portion of the proceeds will go to a women’s charity. The theme this month is Triumph and submissions are open.

8:30 p.m., Highland Inn & Ballroom Lounge, 644 N. Highland Ave. N.E., Atlanta, GA 30306, www.facebook.com/ events/422901874779040

TUESDAY, JAN. 16

“In Memory of – Honoring Trans Lives and Losses” is a group show highlighting the loss of life and violence experienced by those in the trans community. This show is meant to make violence against trans folks (and, disproportionately, trans people of color) an issue for every person, not just those affected by it. This is an invitation for trans people and allies to use art as a form of recognizing and remembering those who have died due to transphobia.

The use of portrait is an intentional way to allow allies to step forward and amplify the

CONTINUES ON PAGE 25

PROFESSIONAL DIRECTORY

24 Best Bets January 5, 2018

WEDNESDAY, JAN. 23

Out performer Suzanne Slair — who has been singing and songwriting professionally since the age of six in Calgary, Canada — appears at Eddie’s Attic tonight with special guest Wyatt Espalin, 7:15 p.m. 515-B North McDonough St., Decatur, GA 30030, www.eddiesattic.com (Publisity photo)

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THURSDAY, JAN. 24

The city’s biggest film festival — the Atlanta Jewish Film Festival — kicks off tonight at 7:30 p.m. with the documentary “Sammy Davis, Jr. : I’ve Gotta Be Me,” with the LGBT film “The Cakemaker” also in the mix later in the run, Cobb Energy Centre tonight (and closing) as well as various other venues through Feb. 15, 2800 Cobb Galleria Parkway, Atlanta Georgia 30339, www.ajff.org (Publicity photo)

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 24 voices of trans folks without speaking over them. For additional questions contact maddy@murmurmedia.org, 12 a.m. - 11:59 p.m. on Jan. 17, Murmur, 100 Broad St. S.W., Atlanta, GA 30303, www.facebook. com/events/655687861487155

WEDNESDAY, JAN. 17

Wussy’s monthly campy feature for January is the 1999 lesbian classic “But I’m a Cheerleader!” All ages are welcome and prizes will be given for the best looks, Doors open at 7 p.m. Arrive then, grab a cocktail and a snack and take some photos before the look contest and the screening at 8 p.m., Plaza Theatre, 1049 Ponce de Leon Ave. N.E., Atlanta, GA 30306, www.facebook.com/ events/1021781021292981 Author Jessica Handler moderates Hear Our Voice: Atlanta Women Fighting For Human Rights, a panel of local activists, government officials and attorneys impacting our communities and beyond, including: civil rights attorney Nora Benavidez, advocate and community organizer Mary-Pat Hector, former Atlanta City Council candidate Liliana

www.thegeorgiavoice.com

Bakhtiari and Georgia Alliance for Social Justice Executive Director Janel Green. This event is a part of 7 Stages’ National Endowment for the Arts Big Read program. This year’s Big Read book is Julia Alvarez’s “In the Time of Butterflies,” 7 – 9 p.m., Georgia Center for the Book at DCPL, 215 Sycamore St., Decatur, GA 30030., www.facebook.com/ events/149829982325463

THURSDAY, JAN. 18

Come join a diverse group of people at Rainbros Lunch to learn more about each other and see how people can help each other in life. 12 – 1 p.m., Roxx Tavern, 1824 Cheshire Bridge Road, Atlanta, GA 30324, www.facebook.com/ events/392924034438960

UPCOMING MONDAY, JAN. 21

The PFLAG support group for parents and families of LGBTQ children meets tonight from 2:30 – 4 p.m. at the Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Atlanta, 1605 Interstate 85/Frontage Road, Atlanta, GA 30329, www.uuca.org

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Offer Never Expires.

As adults, we usually enter the holiday season with trepidation. We want to experience the magic that is promised in the Christmas carols we hear or the imaginary clean slate we create for the New Year, yet usually by the end of it all we are the same jaded people we were before Halloween. Just like the boy in “The Polar Express,” we hope to hear the bell ring every year but somehow its sweet sound misses our ears.

When I was young, I loved Christmas and created an ideal Christmas in my mind, as I stared into 1970s thick Christmas lights and their reflection on the gifts stacked beneath the tree. But I was the only child left in the house, as my siblings were a decade older than I and wrapped up in their own lives. So when the actual Christmas gift unwrapping came, it was a coordination of schedules, an argument between my mother and sister, last minute gift wrapping by those unprepared and a lack of magic in the rush. Mind you, I was quite a sensitive kid so anything that proved imperfect I absorbed too deeply, yet there was something missing. The same has held true most of my life; I still love the holiday but it always feels a tad incomplete.

It was at an unlikely place that I caught the spirit of the season … a train ride through a neighborhood in Roswell. I looked online for a simple light display to show my son one night, and when we arrived at what turned out to be a private residence, the yard was brightly lit with all kinds of items, the garage was turned into a massive Christmas presentation and there was a small train ride that went down the street and back.

When Mr. Carter and I squeezed into our train car with another couple and their daughter, I was the one contorted to the point of discomfort. But my son was excited, and that’s all I cared about. Then, about halfway through the ride as the conductor played carols, the older kids began to sing along and my son did his best to keep up. Cars passed with young kids pouring out the windows yelling “Merry

“I found I began to tear up at the beauty and passion of these kids sharing the joy of what was happening with total strangers. I also noticed we adults did nothing that entire time but sit still.”

Christmas!” and my son and others screamed “Merry Christmas!” in response. I found I began to tear up at the beauty and passion of these kids sharing the joy of what was happening with total strangers. I also noticed we adults did nothing that entire time but sit still.

We begin this life with wonder and a willingness to connect with others. We cry when we hurt, we smile when we’re happy and all we want to do is hug. I’ve only spent this time of year with adults until my son came along, and now I see the difference. How much have we lost of these childlike ways? In this New Year, the only resolution should be to get that back, rather than how much weight we can lose or getting a new girlfriend or boyfriend. Because we still have that excited kid within us, and we all still need to receive it from others.

So from my inner kid to yours (imagine her hanging out of a neighborhood train waving and shouting at the top of her lungs), happy New Year!

Melissa Carter is recognized as one of the first out radio personalities in Atlanta and has been heard over the years on B98.5 and Q100 and can currently be heard daily on the Progressive Voices podcast “She Persisted.”

Follow her on Twitter @MelissaCarter. www.thegeorgiavoice.com

SOMETIMES ‘Y’

By RYAN LEE

The filthiest bath The last death of 2017 hit me the hardest: the closure of Man’s Country in Chicago, which took my bathhouse virginity in 1999. The news wasn’t entirely unexpected; based on my last visits, it was as shocking as the death of 99-year-old celebrity, and the gay institution is being predictably razed for condos.

Nor is the end all too undeserved, as it was truly one of the skankiest venues I have ever braved. I was less concerned about contracting a sexually transmitted infection at Man’s Country than being exposed to staph or some airborne illness that evaporated from the club’s carpet, matted and moist with four decades of bodily fluids.

Even with that, even though the vast majority of my trips to Man’s Country included no sex, it hurts knowing it will not be there the next time I return home. Chicago author and historian Owen Keehnen told the Chicago Tribune that Man’s Country’s closing was, “a gay version of seeing the house you grew up in torn down.”

I was reared in some gritty households, which might be why my nostalgia for Man’s Country is incomparable. It was often a place to sleep when visiting home in my twenties, when I didn’t have enough money for a hotel or enough emotional reserves to stay with family.

The exhilaration I felt when I walked through the door that first night was briefly quenched when I recognized the guy behind the counter as a graduate from my high school.

I was still intensely closeted, but realized my former classmate was more embarrassed by his job than concerned with my secrets.

On that visit, I watched guys having sex in the masturbation room and orgy area, in the steam room and the stairwells. Any shame I felt about being there was annihilated by satisfaction, and the knowledge that finding ass around every corner was but a dream for most 19-year-old boys.

However, just a few years later, I saw www.thegeorgiavoice.com

“On that visit, I watched guys having sex in the masturbation room and orgy area, in the steam room and the stairwells. Any shame I felt about being there was annihilated by satisfaction, and the knowledge that finding ass around every corner was but a dream for most 19-year-old boys.” a teenager in Man’s Country, and it hurt thinking this was one of his earliest exposures to gay life: methed-out zombies racing down halls to drug dealers posted in darkened corners, a suitor making pooting noises with his lips whenever he walks by and guys who aggressively ignore cues of disinterest.

Making that disinterest clear often required total dehumanization: what clearer way to show my lack of attraction than to ignore you completely every time we cross paths, to refuse to recognize your mere existence. Sadly, Man’s Country helped erase the actual existence of plenty of its customers, particularly during its earliest years.

I was once researching an article on a piece of gay Atlanta history, and while flipping through a retro nightlife magazine saw an article and picture from the opening night of Man’s County in 1973. It was heartbreaking knowing that within a decade, every man in that picture would be impacted by a vicious epidemic, and a majority, if not all, of them were likely dead.

But gay bathhouses like Man’s Country also played a vital role in normalizing safer sex among gay men, and by the time I arrived, gay sex no longer equaled death. For me, Man’s Country is comfort lust, prompting soothing memories of when my sex life and sense of self stopped warring with each other.

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January 5, 2018 Columnists 27

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