03/18/16, Vol. 7 Issue 2 by Georgia Voice, a Rough Draft Publication

Atlanta’s own Terry Burrell brings the wit of amazing performer Ethel Waters to life in this one woman play with music from the American popular song canon, including Irving Berlin and Harold Arlen. By and starring Terry Burrell Directed by Kenneth Roberson

Ticketass as low

$20

March 25–April 17

Tickets @ 404.733.500

alliancetheatre.org/ethel // Groups 404.733.4690

Series on the Hertz Stage Mayor’s Office of Cultural Affairs

By and starring Terry Burrell Directed by Kenneth Roberson

GEORGIANEWS

Lost-N-Found Youth moves forward with new shelter plans Capital campaign to begin after permit process frustration

MORE INFO

Number of children visiting Lost-N-Found Youth’s drop-in center per month before Caitlyn Jenner came out and the U.S. Supreme Court legalized same-sex marriage:

By PATRICK SAUNDERS psaunders@thegavoice.com Two years, untold numbers of calls and emails and a ton of frustration later, Lost-NFound Youth finally has the permits for their future shelter in Midtown Atlanta. But securing the permits was just the first on a long list of items to turn the old Victorian home into a livable, workable, thriving shelter for LGBT homeless youth. The facility, which will hold three times as many beds as the current shelter in the West End, plus add office space and a new drop-in center, is located at the corner of 5th Street and Juniper Street, right next door to LGBT favorite Saint Mark United Methodist Church. Saint Mark owns the building and leases it out to the group for a grand total of one dollar a year. But it will take a lot more money than that—$1 million in fact—to make the shelter a reality, and the Lost-N-Found Youth team is finally on the hunt to make it happen. Corruption at city’s Office of Buildings Lost-N-Found Youth first announced plans for the facility in Feb. 2014, with plans to open by that November. But that goal didn’t come anywhere close to fruition due to the city’s dysfunctional Office of Buildings. “I had no idea what we’d have to go through with this,” says Lost-N-Found Youth executive director Rick Westbrook. “It’s been killing me to have this sit.” The Office of Buildings did not respond to a request for comment by press time, but Creative Loafing reported on March 7 that five employees at the office had been fired following a two-year investigation that uncovered instances of creating fraudulent building permits, accepting bribes and other violations. Another part of the delay was the fact that Lost-N-Found Youth was renovating an old facility instead of building from the ground up. “We had to open up walls and get structural engineers in here to make sure it’s www.thegeorgiavoice.com

Number of visits per month after those two events:

300

Percentage of LGBT youth in the U.S. who are homeless: Lost-N-Found Youth executive director Rick Westbrook says they are launching a capital campaign on April 1. (Photo by Patrick Saunders)

“It needs to be a house that’s built by the community. Nothing’s more important than that. The kids need to be able to see that this company, this person, this group donated money to build a house that they can be safe in.” —Lost-N-Found Youth executive director Rick Westbrook sound. And it is,” Westbrook says. “So it will be a great house. We’ve just got to get off our butts and do it.” AHF thrift store draws criticism One development that raised eyebrows while the permitting process dragged on last fall was the opening of a thrift store by the controversial AIDS Healthcare Foundation just blocks from Lost-N-Found Youth’s thrift store. AHF, who have been critical of the use of PrEP, acquired AID Atlanta last year. Westbrook doesn’t mince words when talk turns to the organization. “AHF is not a good thing. I’ll leave it at that. Anybody can Google it and figure it out. There’s going to be a lot of uprising in Atlanta. It’s already started,” he says, referencing negative reaction on social media once news of the opening of AHF’s thrift store got out. “AHF has more money than God and they throw their weight around,” Westbrook continues. “But this is a community that’s

not going to let that weight carry anything. That’s a small space. In their thrift shops they do offer testing and a pharmacy. I don’t have the need or want to get into a pharmacy. It’s important as the true activist in me that we not duplicate services if there are people in town that are doing things.” Westbrook cites Lost-N-Found Youth’s partnership with Positive Impact’s MISTER Center, saying, “I send all my kids over there to get tested because I know that they’re going to take care of them. I know that they’re not going to shame them into not having sex.” Representatives for AHF did not respond with a reply to Westbrook’s comments by press time. Corporate partners sought Despite any outside distractions, Lost-NFound Youth is moving forward with a $1 million capital campaign, which will launch April 1, preceded by a groundbreaking ceremony. And while small donations from the

40 percent

Percentage of LGBT youth in the Southeast who are homeless:

56 percent Info via Lost-N-Found Youth

community are vital, they aren’t hesitating to go after bigger fish as well. “We will be going full force. I’ll be hitting up Coke. Home Depot’s already on board. The Southern Company, Georgia Power, Delta—all the bigwigs,” Westbrook says. “It needs to be a house that’s built by the community. Nothing’s more important than that. The kids need to be able to see that this company, this person, this group donated money to build a house that they can be safe in. That speaks volumes to helping them along, to deal with the rejection that they had by their family and by their churches, and to see that it’s not just all gay people—it’s a lot of straight people too.” Westbrook says the $1 million will give the group just enough to finish the new shelter and provide between one and two years of operating revenue. Two upcoming events—the Thriving Children Annual Gala on April 29 at the Fox Theatre and this June’s East Point Possums show—will be a big part of that. But unlike two years ago, Westbrook isn’t publicly stating a date for the new shelter to open. “It’s all dependent on that money coming in and the grants.” March 18, 2016 News 3

GEORGIANEWS

Religious conservatives turn on each other after Deal comments Rift emerges in debate over controversial ‘religious freedom’ bill

Nathan Deal’s biblical argument against discrimination

By PATRICK SAUNDERS psaunders@thegavoice.com There’s been a raucous debate over one form or another of several “religious freedom” bills for the last three years in Georgia, with both sides pretty clearly defined—the religious right on one side and the LGBT community, business community and more progressive faith leaders on the other. That same definition has applied in this year’s legislative session during the debate over House Bill 757. But a rift that’s always bubbled under the surface erupted on March 3, when Gov. Nathan Deal told the AJC he would reject any measure that “allows discrimination in our state in order to protect people of faith,” urged religious conservatives not to feel threatened by the U.S. Supreme Court decision on same-sex marriage, and called on fellow Republicans who are in favor of the bill to take a deep breath and “recognize that the world is changing around us.” Needless to say, there were many who did not take that deep breath. Leaders of the religious right swarmed over the comments, but is this a short-term fight or did the governor set the table for a more permanent divide? And by making a biblical argument for discrimination, did Deal (a Southern Baptist) provide a roadmap for other legislators to follow as the debate about “religious freedom” and LGBT rights continues on in the years ahead? House Republicans compared to Hitler The response was swift. Tony Perkins of the anti-LGBT hate group Family Research Council wrote on the group’s blog that Deal was “using his faith as a fig leaf to hide behind.” Andrew Walker of the Ethics and Religious Liberty Commission (the public policy arm of the Southern Baptist Convention) wrote an editorial in the National Review against Deal’s comments, as did Pastor Tom Rush of Berean Baptist Church in Social Circle on his blog. But none of this compared to Mike Griffin, the public affairs director of the Georgia Baptist

Gov. Nathan Deal made a biblical argument against discrimination on March 3 that exposed a rift and could have looming implications. (Courtesy photo)

“I wish that more lawmakers, many of whom like to quote the Bible with great frequency, would consult the text in its entirety instead of cherry picking quotes here and there, [so they can] understand the purpose and the intent of our sacred scriptures.” —Rabbi Peter Berg of The Temple in Midtown Atlanta Mission Board, who in a March 10 post in the Christian Index compared Republican House members to Adolph Hitler for failing to move HB 757 forward. Lawmakers bashed Griffin from the House floor later that morning. Rabbi Peter Berg of The Temple in Midtown Atlanta has a different take on Deal’s comments. Berg worked on the federal Religious Freedom Restoration Act as a rabbinical student in 1993 but opposes a state version of the bill as well as House Bill 757. “I think the governor’s read is exactly right,” he tells Georgia Voice. “Whether you’re looking at the Torah, the Quran or the New Testament, all of our sacred scriptures from all of our religions are all about tolerance and loving your neighbor as yourself, and all support those kinds of significant religious freedoms. I’m glad that the governor spoke truth to power and shot down a bill that

would have been very dangerous for Georgia. I wish that more lawmakers, many of whom like to quote the Bible with great frequency, would consult the text in its entirety instead of cherry picking quotes here and there, [so they can] understand the purpose and the intent of our sacred scriptures.” ‘This is brilliant’ Doug Teper, a former state representative and current adjunct professor of American government and Georgia politics at Georgia State University, had an instant reaction to Deal’s comments. “When I saw that quote, I just thought, ‘This is brilliant,’” he tells Georgia Voice. “That is such a great way to take the other side.” Teper sees the rift having implications at least into November, mentioning Donald Trump’s potential effect on down ballot races

The following are excerpts of comments Gov. Nathan Deal made in a March 3 interview with the AJC: “What the New Testament teaches us is that Jesus reached out to those who were considered the outcasts, the ones that did not conform to the religious societies’ view of the world … we do not have a belief in my way of looking at religion that says we have to discriminate against anybody. If you were to apply those standards to the teaching of Jesus, I don’t think they fit.” Then after citing a passage from the Gospel of John that showed Jesus reaching out to an outcast: “What that says is we have a belief in forgiveness and that we do not have to discriminate unduly against anyone on the basis of our own religious beliefs. We are not jeopardized, in my opinion, by those who believe differently from us. We are not, in my opinion, put in jeopardy by virtue of those who might hold different beliefs or who may not even agree with what our Supreme Court said the law of the land is on the issue of same-sex marriage. I do not feel threatened by the fact that people who might choose samesex marriages pursue that route.” in the 2016 presidential election and saying, “The Republican Party’s not going anywhere for a while, but if you’re having these other battles down ballot like in the legislature, they could have a problem and it shapes up pretty much like the Chamber of Commerce Republicans versus the religious right.” But by exposing that rift, did Deal also provide a roadmap for other lawmakers to use in explaining their opposition to such bills in the future? “Yes, definitely. It was very well said. One of the oldest tricks in the book is if you’re a politician anywhere in the Bible Belt to find a good quote in the Bible that fits your needs at the time,” Teper says laughing. “They’re all in there, so you can find one that meets pretty much any of your needs.”

4 News March 18, 2016 www.thegeorgiavoice.com

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NEWSBRIEFS Atlanta City Council votes against anti-gay ‘religious freedom’ bills On March 7, the Atlanta City Council voted to pass a resolution in opposition to House Bill 757, Senate Bill 129 or any other legislation that would discriminate against the state’s LGBT community. The resolution, proposed by Councilmembers Mary Norwood and Alex Wan, passed unanimously. It was co-signed by Councilmembers Yolanda Adrean, Natalyn Archibong, Michael Julian Bond, Keisha Lance Bottoms, Andre Dickens, Kwanza Hall, Felicia Moore, Howard Shook, Carla Smith and Ivory Lee Young, Jr. The move is the latest hit against such bills, following the LGBT community and allies, the business community, many faith leaders and the biggest headline-grabber so far this month—Gov. Nathan Deal. “I join Governor Nathan Deal, businesses all across Georgia, the LGBT community and all Georgians who know that as Georgians we must stand for inclusion, equality, and fairness for all,” Norwood said in a statement. “This is what sets Georgia and Atlanta apart and makes us a world-class environment, taking our place on the world stage. We cannot go backwards; we cannot afford to have discrimination in any form — under any guise — as the law of our state. Our future is too important,” she said. Georgia clergy praise Gov. Deal on opposition to anti-gay ‘religious freedom’ bill Gov. Nathan Deal drew a flood of attention on March 3 when he came out against discriminatory legislation like House Bill 757, the anti-LGBT bill roiling the state. The attention wasn’t just due to what Deal said but how he said it—by making a biblical argument against such legislation. On March 8, a prominent group of Georgia clergy gathered to praise Deal and add to the growing opposition to the bill as the session nears its end on March 24. “The word of God in all of our faiths must bring people together, not drive them apart,” said Rev. William Flippin, Jr. of Emanuel Lutheran Church. “His words were inspiring and should make all public leaders consider what we are called to do.” Rabbi Joshua Heller of Congregation B’nai Torah called the bill a “disaster” in its

Georgia clergy from various faiths assembled at the state Capitol on March 8 to praise Gov. Deal’s opposition to House Bill 757. (Photo by Patrick Saunders)

current form, saying, “It makes our faith into a bludgeon to beat up other people.” Several of the faith leaders also called for comprehensive civil rights legislation as they spoke in the courtyard of Central Presbyterian Church, with the state Capitol as a backdrop. But overall the theme of the event, which included Pastor in Residence Molly McGinnis of Central Presbyterian Church and Rev. Susan Taylor of Starrsville United Methodist Church, was gratitude for Deal’s words and opposition to HB 757. Medical marijuana one step closer for Georgians living with HIV/AIDS While the state’s LGBT community has been trying to avoid taking steps backward with anti-LGBT bills like HB 757, there is a sliver of good news to report from the Gold Dome. A bill that would expand the list of medical conditions that can be treated with medical marijuana includes HIV/AIDS, and it’s one step closer to passage. House Bill 722 is the brainchild of state

Rep. Allen Peake (R-Macon), who has been a medical marijuana champion these last two legislative sessions. Pressure from Gov. Nathan Deal and law enforcement groups forced HIV/AIDS and other conditions to be stripped from last year’s bill, so Peake introduced HB 722 this year both to expand the list of medical conditions and to create a state-sponsored program to grow and manufacture medical marijuana in-state. That second factor was key since, while low-dose cannabis oil is legal in Georgia for those with the approved conditions, they have to travel out of state to get it, putting them in fear of prosecution in other states. However, law enforcement groups stepped in again this year and killed that portion of the bill. The House passed the watered-down version of the bill on Feb. 29, which in addition to adding HIV/AIDS to the approved medical conditions would include post-traumatic stress disorder, epidermolysis bullosa, Tourette’s syndrome and more. HB 722 is now under consideration in the Senate.

6 News March 18, 2016 www.thegeorgiavoice.com

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8 Outspoken March 18, 2016

“I know many look up to me, because I may fit the image they wish to achieve, which I find incredibly humbling, but I want them to also know that their life journey is their own. People should be true to themselves – they don’t have to fit a box.” — Trans model and Instagram star Laith Ashley in an interview with The New York Post (3/9 Screencap image)

“Kim Kardashian tweeted a nude selfie today. If Kim wants us to see a part of her we’ve never seen, she’s gonna have to swallow the camera.” —A tweet sent by Bette Midler in reaction to the most recent Kim Kardashian nude selfie. (Publicity photo)

“We need both sides … if we’re unfortunate enough to get Hillary as our next president, we need her on our side. Although she won’t be … she couldn’t care less about women. She only cares about herself.” — Caitlyn Jenner expressing her views on Hillary Clinton on her E! reality show “I Am Cait.” (Publicity photo) www.thegeorgiavoice.com

s e

ent to)

IN THE MIDDLE

Creepoftheweek

Chocolate, church and the best/worst time of the year

Donald Trump: ‘Making America Great Again,’ unless you’re a minority

By Kim Riggins

Kim Riggins lives in Smyrna with her two incredibly spoiled dogs and an unhealthy obsession with Star Wars.

“The real Easter was about finding eggs with my cousins, stuffing my face with obscene amounts of chocolate and then throwing it up on the back seat of my dad’s Toyota Camry. Now that was an Easter I could get behind!” It’s that time of year again. The grass is green, the pollen is out and soon my apartment complex will be scheduling all landscaping on my days off so that those mornings are filled with the melodious sounds of lawnmowers, hedge trimmers and weed eaters. I’ve never considered that the shrubbery beneath my bedroom window was particularly out of control, but judging from the amount of time and noise devoted to them, they must look like a hot mess from a professional point of view. It is the time when we voluntarily relinquish an hour of sleep so our ancestors can save money on candles. Most importantly, though, it is a time we celebrate the resurrection of Jesus by dressing up in the most uncomfortable clothes money can buy and finding eggs hidden by a bunny. It seems Jesus is always the reason for the season even when he isn’t. My love and loathing for Easter go all the way back to when I was old enough to successfully hide from my mom and whatever dress she was trying to stuff me into that year. We drove off to my grandmother’s church where my brother and I were herded into wooden pews, condemned to spend the next hour and a half counting the panes in the stained glass windows. It was easily the most boring morning of the year. The real Easter was at my other, less pious grandmother’s house. The real Easter was about finding eggs with my cousins, stuffing my face with obscene amounts of chocolate and then throwing it up on the back seat of my dad’s Toyota Camry. Now that was an Easter I could get behind! Ask any kid if they would rather have a basketful of chocolate www.thegeorgiavoice.com

to puke up later or have to sit in church all morning and they will go with the candy every time. So, very early on, Easter became a holiday where I had to do stuff that I generally despised to get to the good stuff at the end. Now that I’m older and understand things a bit more I have discovered that Easter is a holiday where I get to do a bunch of stuff I hate only with 99 percent less candy involved and little to no vomiting. In Galatians, Paul refers to the law (or religion) as a “yoke of slavery” and warns his readers to not allow themselves to be burdened with it again, yet here we are. We celebrate our freedom by donning the shackles of religion in order to prove our devotion. Most of us do it because that is what we feel we should do, but there is irony in observing the event of Christ’s resurrection through a systematic observation of rules. We traded sacrificial lambs for nice clothes and church pews. The result is still the same. The beauty of Easter is that we don’t have to sprinkle the blood of an animal on an altar to be forgiven for our sins. The point we seem to miss, however, is that we don’t have to wear a suit and tie or a dress and heels or file into church pews, either. We don’t have to give the right amount of money or sing the right words, or even sing the right words well. That is the message of Easter. Regardless of why we observe the holiday, be it the resurrection of Christ or simply the celebration of life, we can do it without reservation, rites or rules. There is nothing we must do but if you must do something this year, I suggest stocking up on the chocolate.

By D’ANNE WITKOWSKI A recent episode of “This American Life” featured a gay teenager who was totally gay for Donald Trump. This kid’s parents were totally opposed to him being gay and he cited his number one issue as being marriage equality. He believed wholeheartedly that Trump supported marriage equality (he doesn’t). And even after being confronted with evidence that Trump has opinions to the contrary, the kid basically said that Trump pretends to be anti-gay to score points with conservatives, but that he doesn’t really feel that way. And maybe that’s true. But, as John Oliver pointed out about Trump’s racism, he’s either racist or pretending to be and after awhile there isn’t any difference. The same goes for whether or not Trump is hostile to gays. You can only pretend to be anti-gay for so long before you’re anti-gay. During a March 5 press conference, reporter David Martosko asked Trump to clarify his stance on marriage equality and Obergefell v. Hodges, the Supreme Court ruling legalizing marriage equality. And Trump wouldn’t do it.

“Well, I’ve made it very strong. We have policy on it, and I’ve said it very, very strongly, and I think you know it,” Trump responded to Martosko. “And it’s all done and, you know, how Donald Trump many times do I have to say it? It’s like, as an example, what is my position on 900 different things? I’ve said it 150 times. We’re not here for discussing that. But everybody knows how I feel on it.” Well thank the lord that’s cleared up. It’s exactly his position on 900 different things. Everybody knows! The end! To be clear, Trump has never come out in support of marriage equality. If you think that Trump is LGBT friendly, then I have some Trump Steaks to sell you. Lesbian and gay rights have come so far (still a lot of work to do when it comes to transgender rights), so fast. We can’t risk decades of advancement on the wink-and-anudge evasiveness of a megalomaniac.

March 18, 2016 Outspoken 9

CATCHING UP WITH …

Ames Simmons HRC national board member opens up on gender transition By PATRICK SAUNDERS psaunders@thegavoice.com If you go to the “About Me” section of Ames Simmons’ Facebook page, you’ll find two brief sentences: “For 40+ years I identified as woman named Molly. In 2016 I became a trans man named Ames.” The Atlanta native and corporate attorney, who serves on the national board of directors of the Human Rights Campaign and recently joined the national steering committee for Trans United for Hillary, sat down with Georgia Voice to tell the story beyond those two sentences. Ames, when did you decide that it was time to transition? I would say that I became aware of the possibility of gender transition almost a decade ago. There was a lot of behind the scenes non-public work that I was doing around just dealing with my own internalized transphobia and what transition might mean in a state like Georgia as far as my prospects for continued employment and what it would mean interpersonally in the intimate relationships that I was having, as well as my family relationships. It just took a number of years and a very gradual approach to it until I felt comfortable with the more public steps that I started taking about a year ago. I started more publicly identifying as genderqueer and asked people socially to refer to me by the name “Mol,” which I guess I’m now thinking of as an interim name that was sort of a bridge between the identity of Molly and the gender identity of Ames. Having said that, Ames is a family name and I hadn’t ever considered any other name. It just took me awhile to get comfortable with claiming that name and that identity. Was that bridge with using the name Mol more of a bridge for other people to become more comfortable with this, or just for you, or both? I think that it was primarily for me, but it’s really difficult for me to pull my own process

“I just want to try to be the strongest advocate that I am so that it’s easier, that there’s more acceptance and knowledge of transgender folks in the world so that it’s not so difficult for people to worry about how their family’s going to receive them, or their job, or the clerk at Publix.” —Ames Simmons around transition out of the context of the life that I’m in. So intellectually, I believe that we need to make society safe for trans people to come to whatever conclusions are right for that person, for it to be safe to decide whatever it is that feels right to them about their gender without having to worry so much about what ripple effects it’s going to have on their life. But that’s almost impossible. It’s a huge life decision for any person to make so there’s no way that you can really enter into a decision like that without taking into account the social environment that you’re in. So while I don’t think that folks ought to stay in an unhealthy gender identity for the sake of their family, for example, that’s right for many people and that’s what they feel the need to do. I just want to try to be the strongest advocate that I am so that it’s easier, that there’s more acceptance and knowledge of transgender folks in the world so that it’s not so difficult for people to worry about how their family’s going to receive them, or their job, or the clerk at Publix.

And you decided to have the surgery, which you’ve talked about on social media. How has that experience been? It’s been very positive. I had one of the best surgeons in the country and he did a really good job. The recovery has gone exactly the way that I thought that it would. It’s a process over time. I had to self-fund it but I was prepared for that and that was part of the gradual process of accumulating enough savings to be able to finance that on my own.

How has the name change gone? Are people being respectful? Socially it’s gone really well. People have taken to it readily and I think part of that is I was very careful and thoughtful about laying the foundation for how I talked about it. The legal process is a whole other ball of wax. That’s still in process and will be for a month at least. It’s not a simple undertaking in Georgia because of the state law that we have, but it could be worse.

How do you feel now at this point in your transition? What’s your mindset? On the whole I find a huge sense of relief that I’m not having to pretend to be something that I’m not. That has really made me a much happier and better adjusted person. For me personally, a big part of that sense of relief and well-being comes from being on testosterone. I think that’s an integral part of what’s helped to make the transition come together. I was nervous about starting testos-

Ames Simmons has come a long way since becoming aware of the possibility of gender transition a decade ago. (Photo by Patrick Saunders)

terone so I did it at a low dose and without telling many people what I was doing because I wanted to be able to stop if at any point I felt uncomfortable or that it wasn’t the right thing for me. But without question it was the right thing to do and has helped me to feel so much calmer and just more of a sense of agency about the direction that my life is taking. I don’t know that transition will ever “be done” and certainly it wouldn’t be a fair impression to leave with readers that this is something I rolled out in mid-January and now it’s mid-March so over the course of two months I’ve become a totally different person and everything’s great. I’m still the same person and I still have all the same interpersonal factors and context in my life that I had before, but I’m better able to deal with it because I’m more able to bring a whole self to that context. For an extended version of this interview, go to www.thegavoice.com.

10 Community March 18, 2016 www.thegeorgiavoice.com

WORK Clayton Skinner appointed as LNFY’s chief operating officer Lost-n-Found Youth has appointed Clayton Skinner as its new chief operating officer. Skinner will be responsible for ensuring the organization operates effectively and efficiently in partnership with executive director Rick Westbrook. “Having previously served as pro-bono counsel and seen the amazing work done by the people at Lost-n-Found Youth for LGBT homeless youth across Georgia and the Southeast, I’m proud to have joined the team,” Skinner tells Georgia Voice. “There are many exciting projects underway, including the renovation of a historic building in Midtown that will provide expanded space for the Youth Center and triple the number of beds for the Housing program. I’m looking forward to both continuing the amazing work already accomplished and providing operations support to further expand the critical services offered.” Lisa Pane, Associated Press journalist, promoted to national crime beat Longtime Associated Press journalist Lisa Pane has been promoted to a new “cross-format” role with the Associated Press. Payne’s new role will require her to cover crime and law enforcement from a national perspective, filling in key coverage on major breaking crime stories. “In this role, Lisa will develop strong shortand longer-term enterprise on stories about crime and law enforcement aimed at national and global audiences, and will dig in on some of the key issues that occupy Americans’ thoughts — guns and the Second Amendment, safety and security and the threat of terrorism in all its forms. She will do that using the strength of AP storytelling in all formats,” said Brian Carovillano, Vice President and managing editor of US News in a statement. City Winery Atlanta to host star-studded artist line-up City Winery, the popular live-music venue and restaurant with locations in New York City, Chicago, Nashville and now Atlanta is gearing up for a series of concerts in its intimate 300-seat Midtown venue. Located at Ponce City Market, the intimate venue will be home to over two-dozen www.thegeorgiavoice.com

IT!

Clayton Skinner is the newly appointed chief operating officer of Lost-n-Found Youth.

renowned acts such as Mavis Staples, Amel Larrieux and 10,000 Maniacs to name a few beginning on May 7 and running until July 14. “We are attempting to create the perfect setting to share with friends your passion for wine, music and great food. We believe strongly that the design and set-up of the physical space which combines the wine country vibe in an urban setting sets the stage for our unique customer experience,” says Michael Dorf, City Winery founder and chief executive officer. U.S. SBA to hold small business event in Atlanta The United States Small Business Administration (SBA) will recognize and award outstanding small business owners in several cities around the country, including Atlanta on May 3. SBA administrator Maria Contreras-Sweet recently announced the dates for this year’s National Small Business Week to be held from May 1-7. This year’s theme will be “Dream Big, Start Small.” National Small Business week will kickoff in Washington D.C. before heading to Atlanta, Denver and Phoenix. The week will wrap-up with visits to Oakland and San Jose, California. Additionally, recognition and educational events throughout SBA’s 10 Regions and 68 Districts will be held throughout the week. As details are finalized, more information on the Atlanta event can be found on: www. sba.gov/NSBW March 18, 2016 Community 11

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www.thegeorgiavoice.com

G N I

ART

A T N A L T A T LGB P R E VIE W

BELINDA

CARLISLE’S EVOLUTION ’80s pop star talks Buddhism, animal rights and life as a PFLAG mom ahead of ATL concert By SHANNON HAMES In the ’80s, she fronted the all-female pop group The Go-Go’s. She had a successful solo career, posed for Playboy, became a vegan, got sober, married a politician, had a gay son, moved to France, started practicing Buddhism and founded a nonprofit that employs women in India to care for street animals (not all in that order). She’s also coming to Atlanta so we caught up with her to find out how it all fits together. Georgia Voice: You are a practicing Buddhist – what about that belief system attracted you and how does it help you in your daily life? Belinda Carlisle: When I turned 40, I just got dropped by my record company and everything seemed very fragile and CONTINUES ON PAGE 14 www.thegeorgiavoice.com

March 18, 2016 A&E 13

BELINDA CARLISLE CONTINUED FROM PAGE 13

VOICES OF NOTE PRESENTS A SPECIAL COMBINED CONCERT

MARCH 18 & 19 Friday at 8PM Saturday at 2PM & 8PM

TICKETS AND M O R E AT:

VOICESOFNOTE.ORG SPONSORED BY

This program is supported in part by the Mayor’s Office of Cultural Affairs, and the Georgia Council for the Arts through the appropriations of the Georgia General Assembly. GCA also receives support from its partner agency - the National Endowment for the Arts. Funding for this program is also provided by the Fulton County Board of Commissioners.

14 A&E March 18, 2016

the future scary. I never took the time to really think where I had been and where I was going with my life. I wasn’t sure who I was as a woman. I picked up “The Art of Happiness” by the Dalai Lama. It changed my life. There was a lot about the Buddhist philosophy that appealed to me and made sense – karma and cause and effect being the two most obvious. I then discovered Soka Gakkai and Nichiren Buddhism. I started chanting and I found that I couldn’t escape myself or my karma. I earned a Gohonzon, a sacred mandala which is almost like a mirror into oneself and that’s when I started making life changes - the biggest one being living a sober life. Chanting changes your perspective on day-to-day things and puts you in rhythm with life. In 2004, you started a nonprofit that helps train women in India to care for street animals. How did that issue get on your radar? I spend a lot of time in India. I know that there are a lot of issues with street animals there – lack of services being the big one. Also, people in India don’t generally regard animals (especially dogs) in the same way that we do in the West. My friend and partner in Animal People Alliance (APA), Paul Suit, works with Made By Survivors. It’s a very successful nonprofit that works with young girls and women that are vulnerable to human slavery/sex slavery and trains them for the most part in jewelry making. Paul mentioned to me that he wanted to start an animal hospital in Kolkata and I said, “I want to do this too.” We formed APA in 2014. We provide emergency services, spaying and neutering, and education in schools. We are also starting to train some women to become veterinary nurses, sending them to some of our partners throughout India. We are creating employment and providing services for the street animals of Kolkata and, hopefully, beyond. Aside from animal rights, are there other issues that you feel passionate about? Of course having a gay son, I am very active in LGBT issues. In fact, I have been for years. I also do work for PETA (People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals) but mostly, my time is spent with APA.

Belinda Carlisle stars with special guest Gabe Lopez on Saturday, April 2 at 9 p.m. at Center Stage in Atlanta. (Photo by Wiki Commons)

Details Belinda Carlisle

with special guest Gabe Lopez Saturday, April 2, 2016 9 p.m. Center Stage 1374 W Peachtree St. NW Atlanta, GA 30309 Tickets start at $25 www.centerstage-atlanta.com You’ve been touring – how have your audiences changed since the ’80s with the Go-Go’s? I would think it’s a much wider demographic now. We have old young, gay, straight and our original fans bring their kids. It’s pretty amazing actually. You are a proud PFLAG mom with a gay son and have spoken out about family acceptance. What would you tell your LGBT fans that don’t have that from their

own families right now? I would say to any young person who is living at home and cannot come out to their parents to contact PFLAG. I’ve done a few things for them and I think they are an amazing organization. They will help you find the best way for you to come out to your parents. They were very helpful with my son who really didn’t know how to tell me and my husband. Anything you want to say about your role as the mom of an adorable gay son? I can’t imagine having a straight son to be honest. I wouldn’t want it any other way. You’re coming to Atlanta – anything you want to say to your ATL fans? Come to my show! I haven’t done any solo shows in Atlanta for years and years. It’s a pretty amazing set list. It includes my solo material but also many Go-Go’s songs and a few interesting covers. www.thegeorgiavoice.com

LGBT

From live theater to art exhibits to concerts; 9 events you don’t want to miss

P By JIM FARMER

ATLANTA IS WHERE THE ART IS

R I NG A RT

AT L A N

VIE W

Spring in the ATL isn’t just a beautiful time of the year but a busy one as well. The arts world has much to offer in all sorts of mediums this season, from the triumphant return of Cirque Du Soleil to a gathering of Rupaul’s drag performers to a rare exhibit of notebooks from revolutionary artist Basquiat. Here are our top 9 picks for shows not to miss. ‘Kinky Boots’ Billy Porter’s big Tony winner finally makes it to the ATL. Based on a film that became the toast of Broadway in 2012, it also has lyrics by Cyndi Lauper and a book by Harvey Fierstein. When Charlie Price inherits a shoe factory from his father, he is forced to go into partnership with Lola, a drag queen, and create a line of high-heeled boots. Playing Lola is actor J. Harrison Ghee - look for our online interview with the performer soon. March 29 – April 2 Fox Theatre 660 Peachtree St. NE, Atlanta, GA 30308 www.foxtheatre.org Basquiat: The Unknown Notebooks He made a name for himself as a street artist in the early ’80s and became a celebrity in the art world before passing away in 1988. Jean-Michel Basquiat was believed to be gay. The High Museum of Art is currently exhibiting eight of his notebooks, providing a glimpse into the mind of the genius. Through May 29 High Museum of Art 1280 Peachtree St., N.E. Atlanta, GA 30309 www.high.org ‘Carousel’ When out director Brian Clowdus and his Serenbe Playhouse tackle a new project they don’t half-ass it. In presenting Rodgers and Hammerstein’s musical “Carousel,” Clowdus will be staging his own outdoor carnival, complete with cotton candy and plenty of visuals. It will be a great warm up to Serenbe’s “Miss Saigon” later this summer. www.thegeorgiavoice.com

Cyndi Lauper comes to the Atlanta Symphony in support of her new album, ‘Detour’ on June 5. Serenbe Playhouse tackles Rodgers and Hammerstein’s musical ‘Carousel.’

March 24 – April 10 Serenbe Playhouse 9110 Selborne Lane Suite 210, Chattahoochee Hills, GA 30268 www.serenbeplayhouse.com ‘Kurios’ “Kurios” is the latest traveling show by Cirque Du Soleil. A number of gay performers are part of the acrobatic acts that make up this 2014 production, just opening locally. One of the hottest is the Aerial Straps number, in which a pair of simulated Siamese twins fly high above the stage, sometimes as a pair and other times individually. Through May 17 Grand Chapiteau at Atlantic Station 1380 Atlantic Drive, Atlanta, GA 30363 www.cirquedusoleil.com Cyndi Lauper at the Atlanta Symphony The “True Colors” artist, one who has always been passionate for LGBT equality, returns to perform with the ASO. It will be in support of her new album “Detour,” Lauper’s 11th studio album, which finds her putting her own spin on a dozen classic country songs from the ’40s, ’50s and ’60s.

1374 W. Peachtree St., Atlanta, GA 30309 www.centerstage-atlanta.com

June 5, 8 p.m. Atlanta Symphony 1280 Peachtree St., N.E. Atlanta, GA 30309 www.atlantasymphony.com Rupaul’s Drag Race Battle of the Seasons 2016 Extravaganza Tour This latest “Drag Race” reunion brings together a slew of contestants from the beloved reality competition, including Michelle Visage, Adore Delano, Alaska Thunderfuck, Courtney Act, Ginger Minj, Miss Fame, and Phi Phi O’Hara. Last year’s champion, Atlanta’s Violet Chachki, will also be a part of the event.

April 15 – 17 Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre 2800 Cobb Galleria Parkway, Atlanta, GA 30339 www.cobbenergeycentre.com

May 13, 9 p.m. The Buckhead Theatre 3110 Roswell Road, Atlanta GA 30305 www.thebuckheadtheatre.com Belinda Carlisle at Center Stage She was the lead vocalist for The Go-Go’s, one of the great female bands of all time, but she also had a successful solo career as well with songs such as “Mad About You” and “Leave a Light on for You.” Carlisle visits Center Stage for a walk down memory lane. April 2, 9 p.m. Center Stage

Atlanta Ballet’s ‘The Princess and the Goblin’ The Atlanta Ballet has an unusually robust spring, with three performances, including “20/20 Visionary” this weekend and “MAYhem: Kissed in May,” but the big event is the return of their 2012 hit “The Princess and the Goblin,” choreographed by the legendary Twyla Tharp. It’s adapted from the 19th century fairy tale by George McDonald with an original score by Richard Burke.

Chihuly in the Garden After his smash show here in 2004, artist Dale Chihuly returns with a new exhibit at the Atlanta Botanical Garden. This time he has 21 installation sites set against the outdoor beauty of the garden. April 30 – October 30 Atlanta Botanical Garden 1345 Piedmont Ave., Atlanta, GA 30309 www.atlantabg.org

March 18, 2016 Spring Arts Preview 15

Actual ATRIPLA patients. ‡

ATRIPLA has been chosen by more than 500,000 people with HIV and their doctors. § In the US, ATRIPLA is the #1 prescribed one-pill, once-daily HIV treatment.

TALK TO YOUR DOCTOR OR VISIT ATRIPLA.COM TO FIND OUT MORE. What is ATRIPLA? ATRIPLA® (efavirenz/emtricitabine/tenofovir disoproxil fumarate) is a prescription medication used alone as a complete regimen, or with other antiHIV-1 medicines, to treat HIV-1 infection in adults and children at least 12 years old who weigh at least 40 kg (88 lbs). ATRIPLA does not cure HIV-1 infection or AIDS and you may continue to experience illnesses associated with HIV-1 infection, including opportunistic infections. See your healthcare provider regularly while taking ATRIPLA. IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION What is the most important information I should know about ATRIPLA? ATRIPLA can cause serious side effects: n Some people who have taken medicines like ATRIPLA (which contains nucleoside analogs) have developed lactic acidosis (build up of an acid in the blood). Lactic acidosis can be a serious medical emergency that can lead to death. Call your healthcare provider right away if you get the following signs or symptoms of lactic acidosis: – feel very weak or tired – have unusual (not normal) muscle pain – have trouble breathing – have stomach pain with nausea and vomiting – feel cold, especially in your arms and legs – feel dizzy or lightheaded – have a fast or irregular heartbeat n Some people who have taken medicines like ATRIPLA have developed serious liver problems (hepatotoxicity), with liver enlargement (hepatomegaly) and fat in the liver (steatosis). In some cases, these liver problems can lead to death. 172003909_v1.indd 1

Call your healthcare provider right away if you get the following signs or symptoms of liver problems: – skin or the white part of your eyes turns yellow (jaundice) – urine turns dark – bowel movements (stools) turn light in color – don’t feel like eating food for several days or longer – feel sick to your stomach (nausea) – have lower stomach area (abdominal) pain n You may be more likely to get lactic acidosis or liver problems if you are female, very overweight (obese), or have been taking nucleoside analog-containing medicines, like ATRIPLA (efavirenz/emtricitabine/ tenofovir disoproxil fumarate), for a long time. n If you also have hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection and you stop taking ATRIPLA, you may get a “flare-up” of your hepatitis. A “flare-up” is when the disease suddenly returns in a worse way than before. Patients with HBV who stop taking ATRIPLA need close medical follow-up for several months to check for hepatitis that could be getting worse. ATRIPLA is not approved for the treatment of HBV, so you need to discuss your HBV therapy with your healthcare provider. Who should not take ATRIPLA? You and your healthcare provider should decide if ATRIPLA is right for you. Do not take ATRIPLA if you are allergic to ATRIPLA or any of its ingredients. What should I tell my healthcare provider before taking ATRIPLA? Tell your healthcare provider if you: n Are pregnant or planning to become pregnant: 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. 3/8/16 4:02 PM

TAKING CARE OF

For adults with HIV-1,

WITH THE STRENGTH OF

Undetectable viral load is a goal, and ATRIPLA has the power to help get you there. In a clinical trial: • ATRIPLA has been proven to LOWER VIRAL LOAD to undetectable* in approximately 8 out of 10 adult patients new to therapy through 48 weeks compared with approximately 7 out of 10 adult patients in the comparator group† • ATRIPLA has been proven to LOWER VIRAL LOAD to undetectable* through 3 years in approximately 7 out of 10 adult patients new to therapy compared with approximately 6 out of 10 adult patients in the comparator group†

SELECTED IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION n Some people who have taken medicines like ATRIPLA have developed build up of lactic acid in the blood, which can be a serious medical emergency that can lead to death. n Some people who have taken medicines like ATRIPLA have developed serious liver problems, with liver enlargement and fat in the liver, which can lead to death. n If you also have hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection and you stop taking ATRIPLA, your hepatitis may suddenly get worse. ATRIPLA is not approved for the treatment of HBV. IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION (continued) Women should not become pregnant while taking ATRIPLA and for 12 weeks after stopping ATRIPLA. Serious birth defects have been seen in children of women treated during pregnancy with efavirenz, one of the medicines in ATRIPLA. Women must use a reliable form of barrier contraception, such as a condom or diaphragm, even if they also use other methods of birth control, while on ATRIPLA and for 12 weeks after stopping ATRIPLA. Women should not rely only on hormone-based birth control, such as pills, injections, or implants, because ATRIPLA may make these contraceptives ineffective. n Are breastfeeding: Women with HIV should not breastfeed because they can pass HIV and some of the medicines in ATRIPLA through their milk to the baby. It is not known if ATRIPLA could harm your baby. n Have kidney problems or are undergoing kidney dialysis treatment. n Have bone problems. n Have liver problems, including hepatitis B or C virus infection. Your healthcare provider may want to do tests to check your liver while you take ATRIPLA or may switch you to another medicine. n Have ever had mental illness or are using drugs or alcohol n Have ever had seizures or are taking medicine for seizures. Seizures have occurred in patients taking efavirenz, a component of ATRIPLA, generally in those with a history of seizures. If you have ever had seizures, or take medicine for seizures, your healthcare provider may want to switch you to another medicine or monitor you.

What important information should I know about taking other medicines with ATRIPLA? ATRIPLA may change the effect of other medicines, including the ones for HIV-1, and may cause serious side effects. Your healthcare provider may change your other medicines or change their doses. MEDICINES YOU SHOULD NOT TAKE WITH ATRIPLA n ATRIPLA should not be taken with: Combivir® (lamivudine/zidovudine), COMPLERA® (emtricitabine/rilpivirine/tenofovir disoproxil fumarate), EMTRIVA® (emtricitabine), Epivir® or Epivir-HBV® (lamivudine), Epzicom® (abacavir sulfate/lamivudine), STRIBILD® (elvitegravir/cobicistat/emtricitabine/tenofovir DF), Trizivir® (abacavir sulfate/lamivudine/zidovudine), TRUVADA® (emtricitabine/tenofovir DF), or VIREAD® (tenofovir DF), because they contain the same or similar active ingredients as ATRIPLA. ATRIPLA should not be used with SUSTIVA® (efavirenz) unless recommended by your healthcare provider. n Vfend® (voriconazole) should not be taken with ATRIPLA since it may lose its effect or may increase the chance of having side effects from ATRIPLA. n ATRIPLA should not be used with HEPSERA® (adefovir dipivoxil). Please see Important Safety Information continued on the following pages.

* Undetectable was defined as a viral load of fewer than 400 copies/mL. † In this study, 511 adult patients new to therapy received either the meds in ATRIPLA each taken once daily or Combivir® (lamivudine/zidovudine) twice daily + SUSTIVA® (efavirenz) once daily. ‡ Symphony Health Solutions, PatientSource APLD and Source® PHAST Prescription Monthly, counts are cumulative and equivalized. January 2007–February 2015. § Symphony Health Solutions, Source® PHAST Prescription Monthly, equivalized counts, July 2006–May 2015. 172003909_v1.indd 2

3/8/16 4:02 PM

IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION (continued) These are not all the medicines that may cause problems if you take ATRIPLA. Tell your healthcare provider about all prescription and nonprescription medicines, vitamins, or herbal supplements you are taking or plan to take. What are the possible side effects of ATRIPLA? ATRIPLA may cause the following additional serious side effects: n Serious psychiatric problems. Severe depression, strange thoughts, or angry behavior have been reported by a small number of patients. Some patients have had thoughts of suicide, and a few have actually committed suicide. These problems may occur more often in patients who have had mental illness. n Kidney problems (including decline or failure of kidney function). If you have had kidney problems, or take other medicines that may cause kidney problems, your healthcare provider should do regular blood tests. Symptoms that may be related to kidney problems include a high volume of urine, thirst, muscle pain, and muscle weakness. n Other serious liver problems. Some patients have experienced serious liver problems, including liver failure resulting in transplantation or death. Most of these serious side effects occurred in patients with a chronic liver disease such as hepatitis infection, but there have also been a few reports in patients without any existing liver disease. n Changes in bone mineral density (thinning bones). Lab tests show changes in the bones of patients treated with tenofovir DF, a component of ATRIPLA. Some HIV patients treated with tenofovir DF developed thinning of the bones (osteopenia), which could lead to fractures. Also, bone pain and softening of the bone (which may lead to fractures) may occur as a consequence of kidney problems. If you have had bone problems in the past, your healthcare provider may want to do tests to check your bones or may prescribe medicines to help your bones. Common side effects: n Patients may have dizziness, headache, trouble sleeping, drowsiness, trouble concentrating, and/or unusual dreams during treatment with ATRIPLA (efavirenz/emtricitabine/tenofovir disoproxil fumarate). These side effects may be reduced if you take ATRIPLA at bedtime on an empty stomach; they tend to go away after taking ATRIPLA for a few weeks. Tell your healthcare provider right away if any of these side effects continue or if they bother you. These symptoms may be more severe if ATRIPLA is used with alcohol and/or moodaltering (street) drugs. n If you are dizzy, have trouble concentrating, and/or are drowsy, avoid activities that may be dangerous, such as driving or operating machinery. n Rash is a common side effect with ATRIPLA that usually goes away without any change in treatment. Rash may be serious in a small number of patients. Rash occurs more commonly in children and may be a serious problem. If a rash develops, call your healthcare provider right away. n Other common side effects include: tiredness, upset stomach, vomiting, gas, and diarrhea. Other possible side effects: n Changes in body fat have been seen in some people taking anti-HIV-1 medicines. Increase of fat in the upper back and neck, breasts, and around the trunk may happen. Loss of fat from the legs, arms, and face may also happen. The cause and long-term health effects of these changes in body fat are not known. n Skin discoloration (small spots or freckles) may also happen. n In some patients with advanced HIV infection (AIDS), signs and symptoms of inflammation from previous infections may occur soon after anti-HIV treatment is started. If you notice any symptoms of infection, contact your healthcare provider right away. n Additional side effects are inflammation of the pancreas, allergic reaction (including swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat), shortness of breath, pain, stomach pain, weakness, and indigestion. This is not a complete list of side effects. Tell your healthcare provider or pharmacist if you notice any side effects while taking ATRIPLA. You should take ATRIPLA once daily on an empty stomach. Taking ATRIPLA at bedtime may make some side effects less bothersome. Please see the following Patient Information for more information about these warnings, including signs and symptoms, and other Important Safety Information.

ATRIPLA is a registered trademark of Bristol-Myers Squibb & Gilead Sciences, LLC. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners. ©2016 Bristol-Myers Squibb Company. All rights reserved. Printed in USA. 697US1600718-07-01 03/16

172003909_v1.indd 3

ATR

Patient Information ATRIPLA®

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ALERT: Find out about medicines that should NOT be taken ATRIPLA (efavirenz/emtricitabine/tenofovir disoproxil fumarate). Please also read the section “MEDICINES YOU SHOULD NOT TAKE WITH ATRIPLA.”

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Generic name: efavirenz, emtricitabine and tenofovir disoproxil fumarate (eh FAH vih renz, em tri SIT uh bean and te NOE’ fo veer dye soe PROX il FYOU mar ate) Read the Patient Information that comes with ATRIPLA before you start taking it and each time you get a refill since there may be new information. This information does not take the place of talking to your healthcare provider about your medical condition or treatment. You should stay under a healthcare provider’s care when taking ATRIPLA. Do not change or stop your medicine without first talking with your healthcare provider. Talk to your healthcare provider or pharmacist if you have any questions about ATRIPLA. What is the most important information I should know about ATRIPLA? ■ Some people who have taken medicine like ATRIPLA (which contains nucleoside analogs) have developed a serious condition called lactic acidosis (build up of an acid in the blood). Lactic acidosis can be a medical emergency and may need to be treated in the hospital. Call your healthcare provider right away if you get the following signs or symptoms of lactic acidosis: ■ You feel very weak or tired. ■ You have unusual (not normal) muscle pain. ■ You have trouble breathing. ■ You have stomach pain with nausea and vomiting. ■ You feel cold, especially in your arms and legs. ■ You feel dizzy or lightheaded. ■ You have a fast or irregular heartbeat. ■ Some people who have taken medicines like ATRIPLA have developed serious liver problems called hepatotoxicity, with liver enlargement (hepatomegaly) and fat in the liver (steatosis). Call your healthcare provider right away if you get the following signs or symptoms of liver problems: ■ Your skin or the white part of your eyes turns yellow (jaundice). ■ Your urine turns dark. ■ Your bowel movements (stools) turn light in color. ■ You don’t feel like eating food for several days or longer. ■ You feel sick to your stomach (nausea). ■ You have lower stomach area (abdominal) pain. ■ You may be more likely to get lactic acidosis or liver problems if you are female, very overweight (obese), or have been taking nucleoside analog-containing medicines, like ATRIPLA, for a long time. ■ If you also have hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection and you stop taking ATRIPLA, you may get a “flare-up” of your hepatitis. A “flare-up” is when the disease suddenly returns in a worse way than before. Patients with HBV who stop taking ATRIPLA need close medical follow-up for several months, including medical exams and blood tests to check for hepatitis that could be getting worse. ATRIPLA is not approved for the treatment of HBV, so you must discuss your HBV therapy with your healthcare provider. What is ATRIPLA? ATRIPLA contains 3 medicines, SUSTIVA ® (efavirenz), EMTRIVA ® (emtricitabine) and VIREAD® (tenofovir disoproxil fumarate also called tenofovir DF) combined in one pill. EMTRIVA and VIREAD are HIV-1 (human immunodeficiency virus) nucleoside analog reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NRTIs) and SUSTIVA is an HIV-1 non-nucleoside analog reverse transcriptase inhibitor (NNRTI). VIREAD and EMTRIVA are the components of TRUVADA®. ATRIPLA can be used alone as a complete regimen, or in combination with other anti-HIV-1 medicines to treat people with HIV-1 infection. ATRIPLA is for adults and children 12 years of age and older who weigh at least 40 kg (at least 88 lbs). ATRIPLA is not recommended for children younger than 12 years of age. ATRIPLA has not been studied in adults over 65 years of age. HIV infection destroys CD4+ T cells, which are important to the immune system. The immune system helps fight infection. After a large number of T cells are destroyed, acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS) develops. 3/8/16 4:02 PM

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ATRIPLA helps block HIV-1 reverse transcriptase, a viral chemical in your body (enzyme) that ■ Reyataz (atazanavir sulfate), Prezista (darunavir) with Norvir (ritonavir), or Kaletra (lopinavir/ritonavir); these medicines may increase the amount of tenofovir DF is needed for HIV-1 to multiply. ATRIPLA lowers the amount of HIV-1 in the blood (viral load). ATRIPLA may also help to increase the number of T cells (CD4+ cells), allowing your immune (a component of ATRIPLA) in your blood, which could result in more side effects. Reyataz system to improve. Lowering the amount of HIV-1 in the blood lowers the chance of death or is not recommended with ATRIPLA. You may need to be monitored more carefully if you infections that happen when your immune system is weak (opportunistic infections). are taking ATRIPLA, Prezista, and Norvir together, or if you are taking ATRIPLA and Kaletra together. The dose of Kaletra should be increased when taken with efavirenz. Does ATRIPLA cure HIV-1 or AIDS? ATRIPLA does not cure HIV-1 infection or AIDS and you may continue to experience illnesses ■ Medicine for seizures [for example, Dilantin (phenytoin), Tegretol (carbamazepine), or phenobarbital]; your healthcare provider may want to switch you to another medicine or check associated with HIV-1 infection, including opportunistic infections. You should remain under the drug levels in your blood from time to time. care of a doctor when using ATRIPLA. These are not all the medicines that may cause problems if you take ATRIPLA. Be sure to Who should not take ATRIPLA? tell your healthcare provider about all medicines that you take. Together with your healthcare provider, you need to decide whether ATRIPLA is right for you. Keep a complete list of all the prescription and nonprescription medicines as well as any herbal Do not take ATRIPLA if you are allergic to ATRIPLA or any of its ingredients. The active ingredients remedies that you are taking, how much you take, and how often you take them. Make a new list of ATRIPLA are efavirenz, emtricitabine, and tenofovir DF. See the end of this leaflet for a complete when medicines or herbal remedies are added or stopped, or if the dose changes. Give copies of list of ingredients. this list to all of your healthcare providers and pharmacists every time you visit your healthcare provider or fill a prescription. This will give your healthcare provider a complete picture of the What should I tell my healthcare provider before taking ATRIPLA? medicines you use. Then he or she can decide the best approach for your situation. Tell your healthcare provider if you: How should I take ATRIPLA? ■ Are pregnant or planning to become pregnant (see “What should I avoid while taking ■ Take the exact amount of ATRIPLA your healthcare provider prescribes. Never change the dose ATRIPLA?”). on your own. Do not stop this medicine unless your healthcare provider tells you to stop. ■ Are breastfeeding (see “What should I avoid while taking ATRIPLA?”). ■ You should take ATRIPLA on an empty stomach. ■ Have kidney problems or are undergoing kidney dialysis treatment. ■ Swallow ATRIPLA with water. ■ Have bone problems. ■ Taking ATRIPLA at bedtime may make some side effects less bothersome. ■ Have liver problems, including hepatitis B virus infection. Your healthcare provider may want ■ Do not miss a dose of ATRIPLA. If you forget to take ATRIPLA, take the missed dose right away, to do tests to check your liver while you take ATRIPLA or may switch you to another medicine. unless it is almost time for your next dose. Do not double the next dose. Carry on with your

■ Have ever had mental illness or are using drugs or alcohol.

■ Have ever had seizures or are taking medicine for seizures.

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regular dosing schedule. If you need help in planning the best times to take your medicine, ask your healthcare provider or pharmacist.

■ If you believe you took more than the prescribed amount of ATRIPLA, contact your local poison What important information should I know about taking other medicines with ATRIPLA? control center or emergency room right away. ATRIPLA may change the effect of other medicines, including the ones for HIV-1, and may ■ Tell your healthcare provider if you start any new medicine or change how you take old ones. Your cause serious side effects. Your healthcare provider may change your other medicines or change doses may need adjustment. their doses. Other medicines, including herbal products, may affect ATRIPLA. For this reason, it is very important to let all your healthcare providers and pharmacists know what medications, ■ When your ATRIPLA supply starts to run low, get more from your healthcare provider or pharmacy. This is very important because the amount of virus in your blood may increase if the herbal supplements, or vitamins you are taking. medicine is stopped for even a short time. The virus may develop resistance to ATRIPLA and MEDICINES YOU SHOULD NOT TAKE WITH ATRIPLA become harder to treat. ■ ATRIPLA also should not be used with Combivir (lamivudine/zidovudine), COMPLERA®, ■ Your healthcare provider may want to do blood tests to check for certain side effects while you EMTRIVA, Epivir, Epivir-HBV (lamivudine), Epzicom (abacavir sulfate/lamivudine), STRIBILD®, take ATRIPLA. Trizivir (abacavir sulfate/lamivudine/zidovudine), TRUVADA, or VIREAD. ATRIPLA also should What should I avoid while taking ATRIPLA? not be used with SUSTIVA unless recommended by your healthcare provider. ■ Vfend (voriconazole) should not be taken with ATRIPLA since it may lose its effect or may ■ Women should not become pregnant while taking ATRIPLA and for 12 weeks after stopping it. Serious birth defects have been seen in the babies of animals and women treated increase the chance of having side effects from ATRIPLA. with efavirenz (a component of ATRIPLA) during pregnancy. It is not known whether efavirenz ■ ATRIPLA should not be used with HEPSERA® (adefovir dipivoxil). caused these defects. Tell your healthcare provider right away if you are pregnant. Also talk with your healthcare provider if you want to become pregnant. It is also important to tell your healthcare provider if you are taking any of the following:

■ Women should not rely only on hormone-based birth control, such as pills, injections, or implants, because ATRIPLA may make these contraceptives ineffective. Women must use a reliable form of barrier contraception, such as a condom or diaphragm, even if they also use other methods of birth control. Efavirenz, a component of ATRIPLA, may remain in your blood for a time after therapy is stopped. Therefore, you should continue to use contraceptive measures for 12 weeks ■ Calcium channel blockers such as Cardizem or Tiazac (diltiazem), Covera HS or Isoptin (verapamil) and others; Crixivan (indinavir), Selzentry (maraviroc); the after you stop taking ATRIPLA. immunosuppressant medicines cyclosporine (Gengraf, Neoral, Sandimmune, and others), ■ Do not breastfeed if you are taking ATRIPLA. Some of the medicines in ATRIPLA can be Prograf (tacrolimus), or Rapamune (sirolimus); Methadone; Mycobutin (rifabutin); Rifampin; passed to your baby in your breast milk. We do not know whether it could harm your baby. Also, cholesterol-lowering medicines such as Lipitor (atorvastatin), Pravachol (pravastatin sodium), mothers with HIV-1 should not breastfeed because HIV-1 can be passed to the baby in the breast and Zocor (simvastatin); or the anti-depressant medications bupropion (Wellbutrin, Wellbutrin milk. Talk with your healthcare provider if you are breastfeeding. You should stop breastfeeding SR, Wellbutrin XL, and Zyban) or Zoloft (sertraline); dose changes may be needed when or may need to use a different medicine. these drugs are taken with ATRIPLA. ■ Taking ATRIPLA with alcohol or other medicines causing similar side effects as ATRIPLA, such as ■ Videx, Videx EC (didanosine); tenofovir DF (a component of ATRIPLA) may increase the amount drowsiness, may increase those side effects. of didanosine in your blood, which could result in more side effects. You may need to be monitored more carefully if you are taking ATRIPLA and didanosine together. Also, the dose of ■ Do not take any other medicines, including prescription and nonprescription medicines and didanosine may need to be changed. herbal products, without checking with your healthcare provider. ■ Fortovase, Invirase (saquinavir), Biaxin (clarithromycin), Noxafil (posaconazole), Sporanox (itraconazole), Victrelis (boceprevir), or Olysio (simeprevir); these medicines may need to be replaced with another medicine when taken with ATRIPLA.

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■ Avoid doing things that can spread HIV-1 to others.

Other possible side effects with ATRIPLA: ■ Changes in body fat. Changes in body fat develop in some patients taking anti HIV-1 medicine. These changes may include an increased amount of fat in the upper back and neck (“buffalo hump”), in the breasts, and around the trunk. Loss of fat from the legs, arms, and face may also happen. The cause and long-term health effects of these fat changes are not known.

■ Do not share needles or other injection equipment. ■ Do not share personal items that can have blood or body fluids on them, like toothbrushes and razor blades. ■ Do not have any kind of sex without protection. Always practice safe sex by using a latex or polyurethane condom to lower the chance of sexual contact with semen, vaginal secretions, or blood. What are the possible side effects of ATRIPLA? ATRIPLA may cause the following serious side effects: ■ Lactic acidosis (buildup of an acid in the blood). Lactic acidosis can be a medical emergency and may need to be treated in the hospital. Call your healthcare provider right away if you get signs of lactic acidosis. (See “What is the most important information I should know about ATRIPLA?”) ■ Serious liver problems (hepatotoxicity), with liver enlargement (hepatomegaly) and fat in the liver (steatosis). Call your healthcare provider right away if you get any signs of liver problems. (See “What is the most important information I should know about ATRIPLA?”)

■ Skin discoloration (small spots or freckles) may also happen with ATRIPLA. ■ In some patients with advanced HIV infection (AIDS), signs and symptoms of inflammation from previous infections may occur soon after anti-HIV treatment is started. It is believed that these symptoms are due to an improvement in the body’s immune response, enabling the body to fight infections that may have been present with no obvious symptoms. If you notice any symptoms of infection, please inform your doctor immediately. ■ Additional side effects are inflammation of the pancreas, allergic reaction (including swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat), shortness of breath, pain, stomach pain, weakness and indigestion. Tell your healthcare provider or pharmacist if you notice any side effects while taking ATRIPLA. Contact your healthcare provider before stopping ATRIPLA because of side effects or for any other reason.

■ “Flare-ups” of hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection, in which the disease suddenly returns in a worse way than before, can occur if you have HBV and you stop taking ATRIPLA. Your healthcare provider will monitor your condition for several months after stopping ATRIPLA if you have both HIV-1 and HBV infection and may recommend treatment for your HBV. ATRIPLA is not approved for the treatment of hepatitis B virus infection. If you have advanced liver disease and stop treatment with ATRIPLA, the “flare-up” of hepatitis B may cause your liver function to decline.

This is not a complete list of side effects possible with ATRIPLA. Ask your healthcare provider or pharmacist for a more complete list of side effects of ATRIPLA and all the medicines you will take.

■ Serious psychiatric problems. A small number of patients may experience severe depression, strange thoughts, or angry behavior while taking ATRIPLA. Some patients have thoughts of suicide and a few have actually committed suicide. These problems may occur more often in patients who have had mental illness. Contact your healthcare provider right away if you think you are having these psychiatric symptoms, so your healthcare provider can decide if you should continue to take ATRIPLA.

■ Keep ATRIPLA in its original container and keep the container tightly closed.

■ Kidney problems (including decline or failure of kidney function). If you have had kidney problems in the past or take other medicines that can cause kidney problems, your healthcare provider should do regular blood tests to check your kidneys. Symptoms that may be related to kidney problems include a high volume of urine, thirst, muscle pain, and muscle weakness. ■ Other serious liver problems. Some patients have experienced serious liver problems including liver failure resulting in transplantation or death. Most of these serious side effects occurred in patients with a chronic liver disease such as hepatitis infection, but there have also been a few reports in patients without any existing liver disease. ■ Changes in bone mineral density (thinning bones). Laboratory tests show changes in the bones of patients treated with tenofovir DF, a component of ATRIPLA. Some HIV patients treated with tenofovir DF developed thinning of the bones (osteopenia) which could lead to fractures. If you have had bone problems in the past, your healthcare provider may need to do tests to check your bone mineral density or may prescribe medicines to help your bone mineral density. Additionally, bone pain and softening of the bone (which may contribute to fractures) may occur as a consequence of kidney problems. Common side effects: Patients may have dizziness, headache, trouble sleeping, drowsiness, trouble concentrating, and/or unusual dreams during treatment with ATRIPLA. These side effects may be reduced if you take ATRIPLA at bedtime on an empty stomach. They also tend to go away after you have taken the medicine for a few weeks. If you have these common side effects, such as dizziness, it does not mean that you will also have serious psychiatric problems, such as severe depression, strange thoughts, or angry behavior. Tell your healthcare provider right away if any of these side effects continue or if they bother you. It is possible that these symptoms may be more severe if ATRIPLA is used with alcohol or mood altering (street) drugs.

How do I store ATRIPLA? ■ Keep ATRIPLA and all other medicines out of reach of children. ■ Store ATRIPLA at room temperature 77°F (25°C). ■ Do not keep medicine that is out of date or that you no longer need. If you throw any medicines away make sure that children will not find them. General information about ATRIPLA: Medicines are sometimes prescribed for conditions that are not mentioned in patient information leaflets. Do not use ATRIPLA for a condition for which it was not prescribed. Do not give ATRIPLA to other people, even if they have the same symptoms you have. It may harm them. This leaflet summarizes the most important information about ATRIPLA. If you would like more information, talk with your healthcare provider. You can ask your healthcare provider or pharmacist for information about ATRIPLA that is written for health professionals. Do not use ATRIPLA if the seal over bottle opening is broken or missing. What are the ingredients of ATRIPLA? Active Ingredients: efavirenz, emtricitabine, and tenofovir disoproxil fumarate Inactive Ingredients: croscarmellose sodium, hydroxypropyl cellulose, microcrystalline cellulose, magnesium stearate, sodium lauryl sulfate. The film coating contains black iron oxide, polyethylene glycol, polyvinyl alcohol, red iron oxide, talc, and titanium dioxide. Revised: November 2015 ATRIPLA is a trademark of Bristol-Myers Squibb & Gilead Sciences, LLC. COMPLERA, EMTRIVA, HEPSERA, STRIBILD, TRUVADA, and VIREAD are trademarks of Gilead Sciences, Inc., or its related companies. SUSTIVA is a trademark of Bristol-Myers Squibb Pharma Company. Reyataz and Videx are trademarks of Bristol-Myers Squibb Company. Pravachol is a trademark of ER Squibb & Sons, LLC. Other brands listed are the trademarks of their respective owners. 21-937-GS-015 ATRC0130

697US1503729-31-01

If you are dizzy, have trouble concentrating, or are drowsy, avoid activities that may be dangerous, such as driving or operating machinery. Rash may be common. Rashes usually go away without any change in treatment. In a small number of patients, rash may be serious. If you develop a rash, call your healthcare provider right away. Rash may be a serious problem in some children. Tell your child’s healthcare provider right away if you notice rash or any other side effects while your child is taking ATRIPLA. Other common side effects include tiredness, upset stomach, vomiting, gas, and diarrhea. 172003909_v1.indd 5

3/8/16 4:02 PM

LGBT

ON BIG, SMALL SCREEN THIS SPRING

By JIM FARMER After a fall season that saw a slew of LGBT films – “Carol,” “The Danish Girl” (both of which competed for Academy Awards), “Legend,” “Freeheld” and “Stonewall,” the spring is a little quieter. Yet there’s some LGBT representation amongst the traditional Hollywood fare. The Atlanta Film Festival, the city’s second largest film festival, opens April 1 for a two-weekend run and hosts a Pink Peach series of LGBT offerings. Among the features this year is “Viva,” which was shortlisted for this year’s Best Foreign Film Academy Award but unfortunately didn’t make the final five. Directed by Paddy Breathnach, this made-in-Ireland feature follows Jesús, a young man who does make-up for a group of drag performers in Havana. He secretly longs to be a performer – and one day, he finds his opportunity. As fate would have it, he also re-connects with his boxer father Angel, who he has not seen in 15 years. It’s a fairly predictable film but one that has plenty of heart. “Viva” opens later this spring at the Midtown Art Cinema for a one week run. Also in the Pink Peach mix are Jorge Torres-Torres’ “Sisters of the Plague,” a horror film about a young woman, a haunted house tour guide in New Orleans, whose mother has passed recently – and is warned about impending terror from a medium, while Julio Hernández Cordón’s “Te Prometo Anarquía (I Promise You Anarchy)” finds two young men dabbling in the black market blood work at night while juggling their relationship between each other during the day. It’s sexually frank and kind of poetic. Two other LGBT-themed films deal with the life of a performer. Michael Curtis Johnson’s “Hunky Dory” follows a glam rock artist and his realization that it is time to grow up, while Ido Haar’s “Presenting Princess Shaw” finds a singer-songwriter dealing with her secret admirer. Although the festival is known primarily for music, Big Freedia, known for her work in bounce music, will be part of the SOUNDS+VISION event at the Ponce City Market. Opening theatrically in April is Matt Sobel’s “Take Me to the River,” a weird but www.thegeorgiavoice.com

LGBT REPRESENTATION

R I NG A RT

AT L A N

VIE W

Details

“Take Me to the River” April 1 – 7 Landmark’s Midtown Art Cinema www.landmarktheatres.com Atlanta Film Festival April 1 - April 10 www.atlantafilmfestival.com “Mapplethorpe: Look at the Pictures” April 4 HBO www.hbo.com “Nothing Left Unsaid: Gloria Vanderbilt and Anderson Cooper” April HBO www.hbo.com “Viva” May 20 – 26 Landmark’s Midtown Art Cinema www.landmarktheatres.com “The Nice Guys” May 20 Area theaters “X-Men: Apocalypse” May 27 Area theaters “That’s Not Us” Spring www.strandreleasing.com

ultimately engrossing tale revolving around a gay California teenager (played by Logan Miller) and what happens when he goes to a family reunion in Nebraska with his parents and plans to come out to his entire family. An accident involving a young cousin derails that. The film also stars Emmy winner Rich-

The Atlanta Film Festival, the city’s second largest film festival, opens April 1 for a two-weekend run and hosts a Pink Peach series of LGBT offerings such as from far left, “Hunky Dory,” “Viva,” and “Presenting Princess Shaw.” (Publicity photos)

ard Schiff and newcomer Robin Weigert from the lesbian film “Concussion.” This spring, Strand Releasing is set to release “That’s Not Us,” a romantic comedy about six friends – a straight couple, a gay couple and a lesbian couple – on a weekend outing. Winner of the Best Ensemble Jury Award at last year’s Out On Film, it’s produced by former Atlantan Derek Dodge and directed by his partner/ husband, Will Sullivan. HBO is the home of a pair of gay-themed projects. In early April, the network presents “Mapplethorpe: Look at the Pictures,” an examination of out photographer Robert Mapplethorpe, directed by Fenton Bailey and acclaimed at Sundance this year. The feature captures Mapplethorpe’s professional and personal life; among those appearing as themselves in the film are Debbie Harry, Fran Lebowitz and Brooke Shields. Also in April, HBO debuts “Nothing Left Unsaid: Gloria Vanderbilt and Anderson Cooper,” a candid documentary about the out television anchor and his tight bond with

his equally famous mother. It’s directed by Academy Award and Emmy Award nominee Liz Garbus, hot off of her “What Happened, Miss Simone?” triumph. Though not dated yet, HBO will also air the two hour “Looking” movie sometime in the summer or fall, answering lots of questions that the canceled series left hanging. A few higher profile Hollywood films could appeal to the LGBT community. Though not gay in nature, gay director Bryan Singer presents “X-Men: Apocalypse,” the newest in the mutant chapter. It’s an unofficial kickoff to the summer season with a cast that includes Michael Fassbender, James McAvoy, Oscar Isaac and Evan Peters. As well, gay actor Matt Bomer appears in May’s “The Nice Guys,” co-starring Ryan Gosling and Russell Crowe, about a private eye investigating the murder of a porn star in Los Angeles.

March 18, 2016 Spring Arts Preview 21

RuPaul pulls double duty, ‘O’Neals’ scores, ‘Empire’ returns and more

LGBT

R I NG A RT

LOAD UP ON LGBT CONTENT THIS SPRING TV SEASON

AT L A N

VIE W

By PATRICK SAUNDERS psaunders@thegavoice.com Television’s second Golden Age continues in 2016 as more platforms have given more chances for dynamic content addressing a variety of issues not seen before on the small screen. Here are 12 picks with standout LGBT content and characters this season. ‘The Real O’Neals’ Dan Savage came up with the idea (and has an executive producer credit) for this new sitcom about a close-knit Catholic family whose personal lives are thrown into (comedic) turmoil after the revelation of several family secrets, chiefly 16-year-old Kenny’s (Noah Galvin) being gay. The openly gay Galvin is a standout. (Premiered March 2 on ABC) ‘RuPaul’s Drag Race’ The race continues in Season 8 of Logo’s hit show. You know the drill: 12 drag queens compete for the title of “America’s Next Drag Superstar,” along with a year’s supply of cosmetics and $100,000. Keep an eye out for Savannah native Dax ExclamationPoint who provides the Georgia pride this time around. (Premiered March 7 on Logo) ‘Dancing With The Stars’ Season 22 (!) of the ABC hit is upon us, and to fill the LGBT quotient we have deaf model and actor Nyle DiMarco. He came out as sexually fluid last fall on Twitter, linking to an article on the term in the process. Other contestants this year include Mischa Barton (“The O.C.,” Kim Fields (“Facts of Life”) and Geraldo Rivera. (Premieres March 21 on ABC) ‘Empire’ The wait is over. The back half of Season 2 is here for openly gay co-creator Lee Daniels’

soapy drama. Terrence Howard and Taraji P. Henson star but gay actor Jussie Smollett has quickly risen up the ranks and gained a nation of fans as the openly gay middle son Jamal, who had a controversial hookup last season with a woman played by Alicia Keyes. (Returns after four-month hiatus March 30 ‘Empire,’ ‘Gay for Play Game Show on FOX)

Starring Rupaul,’ and ‘Grace and Frankie’

are just some of several spring shows with ‘Gay for Play Game Show LGBT content. (Courtesy photos) Starring RuPaul’ Can’t get enough RuPaul? You know Logo can’t, because the famous Ru has an- ‘Game of Thrones’ other show on tap for the network, this time SPOILER ALERT for those not caught up a celebrity-filled trivia show where celebs through Season 5 of “Game of Thrones.” Last help contestants answer pop culture ques- season saw Loras Tyrell imprisoned for being tions to win cash and prizes. Amber Rose, gay. Will someone be able to arrange for his Carson Kressley and Cheyenne Jackson were release? And look out for more LGBT content among those featured in the show’s teaser. from the hit HBO show, as the creators have (Premieres April 11 on Logo) never shied away from it in the past. (Premieres April 24 on HBO) ‘Orphan Black‘ Emmy-nominated actress Tatiana Masla- ‘Penny Dreadful’ ny returns in the lead role of the buzzy sci-fi The inclusion of bisexual character thriller’s third season. The key characters in Dorian Gray (yes, the same character from the show happen to be queer and the show gay writer and poet Oscar Wilde’s celebrated has been celebrated by LGBT fans for repre- novel) helps “Penny Dreadful” land on this senting a spectrum of gender and sexuality list. The show’s writers give actor Reeve Carnot seen in many other television shows. ney lots to do, and lots to do it with, in this (Premieres April 14 on BBC America) show that’s now entering its third season. (Premieres May 1 on Showtime) ‘Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt’ “Pinooot Nooooiiiiiirrrrrr!” Georgia ‘Grace and Frankie’ native and openly gay actor Tituss Burgess Everyone’s favorite frenemies are back for burst onto the scene last year as the flamboy- Season 2 of the Netflix fave, with Jane Fonantly gay aspiring Broadway performer Titus da and lesbian actress/comedian Lily Tomlin Andromedon. Season 2 of co-creator Tina playing the odd couple brought closer toFey’s show will surely continue the madness gether after their husbands (played by Martin as he and Kimmy (Elle Kemper) navigate life Sheen and Sam Waterston) leave the women in New York City. for each other. We can’t wait for this one. (Premieres April 15 on Netflix) (Premieres May 6 on Netflix)

‘So You Think You Can Dance’ Producers of SYTYCD are switching things up with the LGBT fave this year, revamping the format as “So You Think You Can Dance: The Next Generation.” Young dancers between the ages of 8 and 13 will be paired with SYTYCD all-stars who will mentor them throughout the competition. (Premieres May 30 on FOX) ‘Sense8‘ First Lana Wachowski came out as transgender several years ago. And just this month, her sister Lilly did the same. The co-creators of “The Matrix” return for the sophomore season of Netflix’s sci-fi drama series, which explores themes of identity, sexuality, gender and more. People are still talking about last year’s sex scene between a gay man, a transgender lesbian, and two straight men. (Premieres June 5 on Netflix)

22 Spring Arts Preview March 18, 2016 www.thegeorgiavoice.com

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ARTS&ENTERTAINMENT

Award-winning authors Baim, Segal to make dual appearance Lesbian and gay authors to discuss their latest work during Charis book event

Details Tracy Baim and Mark Segal

By DARIAN AARON daaron@thegavoice.com

An Exploration of Gay History Thursday, March 31 7:30-9 p.m. Charis Books 1189 Euclid Ave. NE Atlanta, GA 30307 www.charisbooksandmore.com

The significance of the American gay rights movement and its many influential leaders and organizations will not be forgotten as long as authors Tracy Baim and Mark Segal can help it. The pair are scheduled to appear in a dual book signing and discussion at Charis Books at the end of the month in support of their latest works; “Barbara Gittings: Gay Pioneer,” a biography on the life and activism of the pioneering lesbian activist by Baim; “And Then I Danced: Traveling The Road To LGBT Equality,” Segal’s

critically-acclaimed memoir chronicling his journey from meager beginnings in Philadelphia to his involvement in New York’s historic gay equality movement. In a world where LGBT Millennials reap the rewards of decades of activism by countless individuals, many of whom remain nameless and their accomplishments often unacknowledged, Baim and Segal’s books are both timely and necessary. “The shame of it all is that our movement, like the civil rights movement and the

women’s movement isn’t taught to the next generations,” Baim tells Georgia Voice. “If you were to ask the average gay person in a bar tonight ‘who are the top five gay heroes?,’ they’re most likely gonna be modern gay celebrities or sports figures.” It can almost be guaranteed that their response wouldn’t be Barbara Gittings, despite being known as the mother of the LGBT civil rights movement or her willingness to “take on whole systems that needed to be changed, like the American Psychiatric Association or the American Library Association,” says Baim who in addition to penning Gittings’ biography is also the publisher and executive editor of Chicago’s Windy City Times. As for Segal, whose memoir reflects his contributions to the burgeoning modern gay rights movement of the late ‘60s that began with groundbreaking groups like Gay Liberation Front and his involvement in the

Stonewall Uprising, the activist and publisher of Philadelphia Gay News remains fiercely outspoken and committed to preserving and sharing LGBT history. “Before Stonewall, there were literally only 100 hundred activists nationwide who were out. We took a movement of 100 people and created 15,000 in one year,” says Segal.” Known for his infamous “zaps” targeting mainstream media outlets and political figures for their inaccurate portrayal of LGBT people, Segal tells Georgia Voice that today’s activist have “become so complacent that we just expect our rights to be delivered to us on a platter.” So whom would Segal “zap” today? “If I lived in Washington D.C. today, I would be zapping the Republicans more than you can imagine; Paul Ryan wouldn’t have a night’s sleep and neither would (Mitch) McConnell.”

Les Ballets Trockadero

de Monte Carlo “This is the funniest night you’ll ever have at the ballet.” –The Guardian

Fabulous, award-winning, and scene-stealing, Les Ballets Trockadero de Monte Carlo returns to Atlanta in size 12 pointe shoes. Hurtling through the classical ballet repertoire with their inimitable blend of skill, grace and wit, The Trocks have been a global phenomenon since they formed in 1974. The dancers, including Ida Nevasayneva and Minnie Van Driver, effortlessly display their startling technical prowess and their no-less extraordinary make-up skills.

APR Call Now for Tickets!

404-894-9600 24 A&E March 18, 2016

APR

9 10

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8:00 PM

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2:00 PM

details and more events at

arts.gatech.edu

ON SALE NOW! • MARCH 29 - APRIL 3 FoxTheatre.org/KinkyBoots • 855-285-8499

www.thegeorgiavoice.com

EATING MY WORDS By CLIFF BOSTOCK

The good, the confusing and the absurd of Atlanta dining Throughout my 30-year tenure as a nearly fulltime dining critic, I typically eat in restaurants four or five times a week. People always thought it sounded like a fantastic job. I always explained that critics eat more bad-to-mediocre food than good stuff. So it went during the last week or so. Dish of the Week: That would be the brunch-time cassoulet at The One Eared Stag. I hadn’t visited this restaurant across from the Inman Park MARTA station in a couple of years when I brunched there on a recent Sunday with family members I hadn’t seen since I was a child. It’s not the quietest place to catch up, but Chef Robert Phalen’s brilliantly conceived cooking couldn’t be more absorbing. Cassoulet is a classic French dish – among my favorites – featuring white beans and duck confit under a toasty topping of breadcrumbs. Phalen riffs. He scatters the crumbs, shreds the duck and then tops it with a fat poached egg whose yolk adds velvety texture. He also adds spinach leaves. Addictive. (1029 Edgewood Ave., 404-525-4479, oneearedstagatl.com) Confusing Experience of the Week: Despite raves, I’ve never visited The Pinewood in Decatur. It’s best known for its craft cocktail program. I don’t drink and only two of my five friends who visited with me sampled and approved the booze. It was fun nonetheless to watch the bartender shake up his concoctions with more double-jointed force and drama than a Cirque du Soleil performer. The food ranges from the mediocre to the very good. The double-patty cheeseburger with shamefully rich remoulade and bacon deserves its renown. Two of us divided it as an appetizer. An oyster roll is nearly as decadent. But my trout was disappointing. It was topped with shaved prosciutto country ham and thin-sliced olives and chiles. The fish, sitting in a pool of browned butter and shaved fennel, was seriously overcooked. A papardelle Bolognese earned an “it’s okay” from a tablemate. Choose carefully and you’ll eat well. Warning. Get a reservation. The place is wall-to-wall tables and you will not get seated without one. (254 W. Ponce de Leon Ave., www.thegeorgiavoice.com

CHANGING THE FACE OF AMERICA’S POLITICS. FOR 25 YEARS, the Victory Fund has championed openly LGBT candidates and elected officials, building a nationwide movement to support LGBT leadership. Among our wins are four Georgia legislators, two Atlanta City Council Members, 7 LGBT members of the U.S. House of Representatives and a United States Senator. Come celebrate with us as we look forward to another record-breaking year in 2016!

‘The One Eared Stag’s’ riff on the classic cassoulet served with white beans, duck confit and bread crumbs. (Photo by Cliff Bostock)

Decatur, 404-373-5507, pinewoodtr.com) Absurdity of the Week: One of my friends works for a company that doles out employee awards in the form of discount GAVOICEAD.indd coupons for Chili’s and Longhorn. After two visits to the latter, I refused to go again. But I was morbidly curious about Chili’s, which I had not visited since I lived in Houston in the ’80s. Oy. Nothing succeeds like very mediocre food pandering to the timid of palate. Five of us visited the Toco Hills location. I’d been told by a friend that I would love the baby back ribs – “tender, slow smoked over pecan wood,” according to the menu. Several sauces are available – Pepsi, craft beer, and original. When I told our (very entertaining) server that I couldn’t abide super-sweet bbq sauces, he suggested the original. It was of course cloyingly sweet. Thank God, I asked for it on the side. Yes, the meat was falling off the bone, as it should be, but the dry rub was grimly flavorless. There’s no flavor of chiles at Chili’s. That’s not to say I didn’t clean the bones, but the alternative was eating the two sides that came with it – dreadful fries and a big pile of steaming broccoli. Who the hell serves broccoli with barbecue? (2133 Lavista Rd., 404-325-8680, chilis.com)

BUBBLES & BISCUITS: VICTORY IN ATLANTA CHAMPAGNE RECEPTION

SUNDAY, MARCH 20 1 - 3 P.M. THE WIMBISH HOUSE 1150 PEACHTREE ST.

VICTORYFUND.ORG/ATLANTA

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1:47 PM

Cliff Bostock, PhD, is a longtime Atlanta food critic and former psychotherapist who now practices life coaching for creative types; 404-518-4415. March 18, 2016 Columnists 25

T ES

LGBT

Our Guide to the Best LGBT Events in Atlanta for March 18-31

BETS

N AT L A EVENT

THURSDAY, MARCH 24

The new Cirque du Soleil show, “Kurios,” has opened at Atlantic Station, with several openly gay performers, with an 8 p.m. curtain tonight, www.cirquedusoleil.com (Publicity photo)

FRIDAY, MARCH 18 – SATURDAY, MARCH 19

EVENT SPOTLIGHT FRIDAY, MARCH 18

Now in its sixth year, pb&j Gallery hosts “Body and Soul,” which celebrates the male nude form. Artists involved include videographer Drew Davis, presenting an erotic video short, and award-winning photographers Bob Burkhardt and Trevor Green. The show will be on display through tonight. www.pbj-gallery.com (Publicity photo)

26 Best Bets March 18, 2016

The Gay Men’s Chorus and the Atlanta Women’s Chorus join forces for the first time for the “And Justice For All” concert, Friday at 8 p.m. and Saturday at 2 p.m. and 8 p.m., Peachtree Road United Methodist Church, 3180 Peachtree Road, Atlanta, GA 30305

FRIDAY, MARCH 18

Aurora Theatre has opened Stephen Sondheim’s “Into the Woods,” with a performance tonight at 8 p.m., running through April 17, www.auroratheatre.com It is the last bar night for Mr. and Ms. Atlanta Eagle 2015 and the nightclub is doing lube wrestling March Madness bracket style. Winners will get to take on defending champs Khaz and Robbie in the final matches, 10 p.m., Atlanta Eagle, www.atlantaeagle.com

SATURDAY, MARCH 19

The Atlanta Rollergirls stage a double feature game today, 5 p.m. and 7:30 p.m., Yaarab Shrine Center, 400 Ponce De Leon Avenue NE, Atlanta, GA 30308 A benefit for Pride School of Atlanta is tonight. Various youth and folk artists will be donating art to be sold/traded for donations. Food and drinks, including adult beverages, will be available, 7:30 p.m., Kavarna, 707 E Lake Dr., Decatur, GA 30030 The Heretic hosts a benefit for Lost-NFound Youth from 8 – 10 p.m., www.hereticatlanta.com Come enjoy a beer at the new non-smoking Woofs, www.woofsatlanta.com

SUNDAY, MARCH 20

DJ Josh Whitaker spins at Xion Atlanta, 3 a.m., www.facebook.com/ events/823024011153423/

Victory Fund hosts a Victory in Atlanta Bubbles and Biscuits event featuring Pennsylvania state Rep. Brian Sims and honoring local filmmaker Cindy Abel. Tickets start at $125, 1 – 3 p.m., The Wimbish House, 1150 Peachtree St NE, Atlanta, Georgia 30309 The PFLAG support group for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and questioning people and their parents and family meets tonight from 2:30 – 4 p.m. for the program “Out of the Box” – People who don’t identify on the binary,” Spiritual Living Center of Atlanta, 1730 Northeast Expressway NE Atlanta, GA 30329 A Sunday Funday Beer Bust at FROGS benefits the AV200 (AIDS Vaccine 200 Mile Ride). All money raised will be donated to the Emory Vaccine Center and Jerusalem House, 3 p.m., F.R.O.G.S., 931 Monroe Dr. NE, Atlanta, Georgia 30308 SCAD FASH, the Savannah College of Art

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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 and Design’s museum celebrating fashion and film, presents “Be Yourself; Everyone Else Is Already Taken” — the first U.S. exhibition featuring the work of artist, stylist and designer Daniel Lismore — through April 1, www.scadfash.org

MONDAY, MARCH 21

Trans and Friends is a youth focused group for trans people, people questioning their own gender, and aspiring allies. Charis provides a facilitated space to discuss gender, relevant resources and activism around social issues. Whether silently or aloud, please come ready to consider your own gender in a transient world. This is a project of the Feminist Outlawz and is co-sponsored by Charis Circle’s Strong Families, Whole Children, 7 – 8:30 p.m., www.charisbooksandmore.com

TUESDAY, MARCH 22

Art It Out Therapy Center is now offering an Expressive Art Therapy Group for LGBTQ Teens on Tuesdays. Through art, the group will explore self-identity, coping with stress, intimate and parental relationships, and coming out. 7 p.m., 255 Village Parkway (in Paper Mill Village), Suite 580, Marietta, GA 30067

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 23

Do you want to read books by amazing black women writers? Do you want to discuss works from a black feminist perspective(s)? Do you want to do all of this in an awesome gem of a feminist book store? Then the Black Feminist Book Club is for you. Charis Circle board cochair Susana Morris will be the facilitator of this group. All community members are welcome to participate. This is a Charis Circle “From Margin to Center” literary event and the suggested donation is $5. 7 – 9 p.m., www.charisbooksandmore.com It’s karaoke night at the newly reopened Cockpit, 465 Boulevard SE, Atlanta, GA 30312

THURSDAY, MARCH 24

The Center for Civil and Human Rights and the LGBT Institute hosts the

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FRIDAY, MARCH 25

Kia Labeija’s “24” is featured in “Art AIDS America,” an exhibition that reveals for the first time how the AIDS crisis forever changed American art. Its stop at Kennesaw State University’s Zuckerman Museum of Art is the only Southern stop on its national tour, through May 22, zuckerman.kennesaw.edu (Publicity photo) Positively Trans Digital Storytelling Project Launch, including a screening of videos and highlights from the national needs assessment of trans and gender non-conforming people living with HIV. 6 – 8 p.m., www.lgbtinstitute.org

Edie Cheezburger presents the most unique drag show in Atlanta, and the Other Girls will leave you gasping with laughter and surprise at The Other Show, 9:30 p.m., Jungle, www.jungleatl.com

Join MAAP (Metro Atlanta Association of Professionals) tonight at Creative Approach Atlanta for an evening of new connections. Spend the evening with MAAP sponsors LifeTrek Services and Creative Approach Atlanta and expand your professional network. The event is free to members, $15 for guests. There is plenty of paid surface parking options surrounding the venue including a parking deck at the SkyHouse, right behind Creative Approach. 6 – 8 p.m., 1080 West Peachtree St NW, Atlanta, GA 30309

Lindsey Hinkle performs live in concert at My Sister’s Room, followed by the biggest girl party in Atlanta with DJ Tina V. Doors open at 6 p.m. and the concert begins at 9:30 p.m., www.mysistersroom.com

The Pretty Girl Hideout Thursdays is tonight, hosted by Mook Dahost, Soul Bar at Pal’s Lounge, 254 Auburn Avenue, Atlanta, GA 30303, www.traxxgirls.com

FRIDAY, MARCH 25

The Hideaway Atlanta kicks off the weekend with drink specials beginning at 5 p.m., www.atlantahideaway.com The Atlanta Gay and Lesbian Chamber of Commerce (AGLCC) hosts its Fourth Friday networking mixer from 5:30 – 7:30 p.m. at Gallery 874, 874 Joseph E Lowery Blvd NW, Atlanta GA 30318

SATURDAY, MARCH 26

Musicians from eight states will join Atlanta Freedom Bands for an “epic” concert of music from the cinema. The concert program includes music from a number of Oscar-winning and nominated composers and film scores. The program also includes music from productions filmed right here in Atlanta, or “Y’allywood!” The concert is presented as the first Southeastern Regional LGBT Band event, 8 – 10 p.m., Crowne Plaza Atlanta Midtown, 590 W Peachtree St NW, Atlanta, GA 30308 If it’s 9 p.m. at BJ Roosters, hot boys will be on the bar, bartenders will be pouring strong drinks, and DJ Tommy will be spinning fun tunes, 2043 Cheshire Bridge Rd., Atlanta, GA 30324

CONTINUES ON PAGE 28

EVENT SPOTLIGHT FRIDAY, MARCH 25

“Looking” star Lauren Weedman reads from her book “Miss Fortune,” 7 p.m., Margaret Mitchell House, www.atlantahistorycenter.com/mmh (Publicity photo)

March 18, 2016 Best Bets 27

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 27

Smyrna, GA 30080

SUNDAY, MARCH 27

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 30

Sunday night’s “Dinner With the Divas” puts you this close with the likes of Gaga, Madonna, Cher, Beyoncé and more, Lips Atlanta, www.atldragshow.com Brigitte Bidet hosts Tossed Salad at 10 p.m., Burkhart’s, www.burkharts.com

MONDAY, MARCH 28

The Panther Levi and Leather Meeting is tonight from 7 – 10 p.m., Atlanta Eagle, www.atlantaeagle.com Pride Kickball Party with the Players has returned to Blake’s, www.blakesontheparkatlanta.com

EVENT SPOTLIGHT SATURDAY, APRIL 2

The Variety Playhouse welcomes comedian Paula Poundstone, 6 p.m., www.variety-playhouse.com (Publicity photo)

28 Best Bets March 18, 2016

Join Charis and the Georgia Tech Different Games Collective for the newest installment of Dear Games featuring Adrienne Shaw, who will read from her book “Gaming at the Edge,” looking at the complexity of demands for increased diversity in game culture, industry and texts, from an audience centered perspective, 7:30 – 9 p.m., www.charisbooksandmore.com Regina hosts Hump Night at Friends on Ponce at 8 p.m., with all sorts of fun, www.friendsonponce-atl.com

THURSDAY, MARCH 31

TUESDAY, MARCH 29

DJ Tron spins at Bulldogs, 893 Peachtree Street, Atlanta, GA, 30308

J’s Lounge is the home for Rainbow Tuesdays, with Dymond Onasis and Nicole Paige Brooks leading the fun and DJ Destin providing house music, 1995 Windy Hill Road #1,

Join Charis in welcoming two pioneers of gay and lesbian journalism, Tracy Baim, publisher of Chicago’s Windy City Times and Mark Segal, publisher of Philadelphia Gay News. Tracy and Mark will talk about their experiences at their respective papers and read a bit from each of their books. Baim is the author of “Barbara Gittings: Gay Pioneer,” about the lesbian who led the charge for LGBT rights

The Tony Award-winning musical “Kinky Boots” finally comes to the ATL, debuting tonight at 7:30 p.m. at the Fox Theatre and running through April 2, www.foxtheatre.org

beginning in the late 1950s. Segal is the author of “And Then I Danced” and is one of the founders and former president of both the National Gay Press Association and the National Gay Newspaper Guild. 7:30 – 9 p.m., www.charisbooksandmore.com

UPCOMING FRIDAY, APRIL 1

The Atlanta Film Festival, the city’s second largest film festival, opens today and runs through April 10 at multiple area venues, with several LGBT films as part of their Pink Peach series, www.atlantafilmfestival.com Come party with the Fort Troff Grunts as BeefyBoys presents Barracks, with appearances by sexy studs Bennett Anthony and Jonah Fontana and music by DJ Seth Breezy, 10 p.m. – 3 a.m., Heretic Atlanta, www.hereticatlanta.com

SATURDAY, APRIL 2

Belinda Carlisle will sing “Mad About You” and more as she headlines Center Stage at 9 p.m., www.centerstage-atlanta.com

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decisions at a difficult time — and may help settle any disputes that might arise if someone questions your wishes. It’s a good idea to let friends and family know your preferences. This can soften potential stress and also gives you an opportunity to discuss your choices with anyone who may raise objections.

If you’re not able to advocate for your own healthcare wishes due to an illness or injury, how can you be sure you get the care you want? If you become hospitalized or enter a long-term care facility, how can you be sure your loved ones have visitation rights, regardless of relationship or sexual orientation? These questions are particularly important for LGBT couples, who can face legal hurdles heterosexual couples may be less likely to encounter. That’s especially true if you’re not married. Having a healthcare power of attorney, living will, and visitation directive can make for smoother sailing for you and your loved ones.

According to federal law, no hospital or long-term care facility can deny your wishes regarding who can visit you, if their decision is based on sexual orientation or gender identity. That doesn’t mean your loved ones will never face resistance though. To ward off that possibility, your attorney can draft a visitation directive that puts in writing who can visit you. The directive can also include your instructions regarding who you do not wish to visit you, whether it’s an individual or a group of people.

Healthcare power of attorney

There’s more

Also known as a healthcare proxy, this document identifies the person (known as your agent) designated to make healthcare decisions for you if you can’t. Having this document can be particularly helpful if your chosen agent is not your legal spouse. As you create your healthcare power of attorney, discuss your wishes with whomever you choose, so he or she has solid direction to rely on for potential decision-making. You might also want to let other friends and family know the individual you’ve chosen as an agent so they will be less likely to question that person’s authority to make decisions later. It’s actually a good idea to name multiple agents too. For instance, if you and your partner name each other as agents, but you are both involved in a car accident, you both will need to have a backup, or successor agent, listed. If you’re transgender, you may want to include instructions that healthcare providers respect your gender identity as well. While any provider receiving federal funding is required to do this, having it in writing makes it easier for your agent to advocate for you.

Living will

Also known as an advance directive, a living will provides information on the types of life-sustaining measures you do (or don’t) want taken on your behalf. This could include instructions related to resuscitation, feeding or breathing tubes, and pain medication. Having a legal document provides direction not only for healthcare providers but also for your loved ones. It can help them make difficult

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Visitation directive

You should also be sure to identify in writing who can request and receive medical information about you from your healthcare providers. This direction is related to the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPPA) and may require a separate release or may be included in one of your other healthcare documents. .

You should take it with you

It’s not enough to simply have healthcare directives. You also need to make sure they’re easily accessible if they’re needed. Many experts recommend you carry copies of your healthcare and durable powers of attorney, living will, and any marriage/civil union/domestic partnership certification when you travel. If you’re not keen on packing all of that paperwork, consider storing a digital form on your mobile device or a memory stick. At the very least, bring copies along if you’re traveling outside your home state or to foreign countries. You may also want to provide your agents and your primary care provider with copies. And make sure your loved ones know where to find the documents, just in case.

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THAT’S WHAT SHE SAID By MELISSA CARTER

Lessons I learned on spring break Your clocks have moved forward, the official start of spring is here, and you’re preparing by planting new seeds and packing old sweaters. At one time you were on the road to a beach destination this time of year for spring break, and I was piled in a car with several friends heading to Panama City Beach where I learned these valuable life lessons: Virginity is a state of mind, depending on what state you’re in. I had already been in a relationship with a woman by the time I went on this high school spring break trip, and knew I was a lesbian for life. Not interested in sleeping with men and still in the closet, I had been able to use this cover with the teen boys who wanted to be physical - I was a good Southern girl who was waiting for marriage. It seemed to deter them in Tennessee without question, but when we ran into a guy we knew from home on Front Beach Road, he decided he was going to give it one more try. I again said no and he reminded me that we were in Florida and when you cross state lines “it doesn’t count.” Nice try, but I still said no and he simply started making out with one of my buddies and tried his luck with her. If it’s your birthday, anything goes. Speaking of Front Beach Road, it’s the main drag of Panama City Beach. During spring break it serves as a parking lot for the scores of students bottlenecking onto the small road to meet one another. We made our slow trek with everyone else on one of our friend’s birthdays and she hung out of our car announcing that to the world. Guys reacted by coming up and giving her a kiss, encouraging her mantra to evolve into very slurry, “Kiss me, It’s my birthdayyyyy!” One guy approached the car and surprised us all by asking me if it was my birthday too. I sweetly told him no. Never go into a maze drunk. Panama City Beach has something called the Gran Maze about the size of a football field that you should be able to navigate in a short period of time. That’s if you’re sober. We were not, and easily got lost within the confusing human labyrinth.

“Not interested in sleeping with men and still in the closet, I had been able to use this cover with the teen boys who wanted to be physical - I was a good Southern girl who was waiting for marriage.” Add to that the fact we were teenage girls and as a group always engaged in laughter to the point of tears. Fellow maze patrons began making a wide berth to avoid our gaggle of fools. That’s when our friend informed us that if we didn’t get out of there in a hurry she was going to pee on herself. We made a spirited attempt to carry this crying, laughing, drunk arm-in-arm to an elusive exit but it proved in vain. She had to duck in a private cubby of the maze as we stood guard and watched her drop her shorts like she was in the woods. Urine poured into the main pathway of the maze as others stepped over the spillage, which motivated us to quickly find the exit before we were escorted out. Not sure I will pass these ideals on to my son, but they seemed important in 1988. So if you see me cruising down Peachtree spraying “Sun In” in my hair and blasting Def Leppard’s “Pour Some Sugar On Me,” it’s my teenage way of celebrating spring. Melissa Carter is one of the Morning Show hosts on B98.5. In addition, she is a writer for the Huffington Post. She is recognized as one of the first out radio personalities in Atlanta and one of the few in the country. Follow her on Twitter@MelissaCarter

30 Columnists March 18, 2016 www.thegeorgiavoice.com

SOMETIMES ‘Y’ By RYAN LEE

Friendly fire vs. fascism I’m regularly baffled by some of the conservative criticism that’s directed toward Michelle Obama. I mean, how could anyone be mad that the First Lady is trying to get America’s children to eat healthier lunches? But then Nancy Reagan died, and in my first thoughts, I could hear conservatives asking me a similar question: How could anyone be mad that the First Lady tried to get America’s children to not smoke crack? More than the AIDS epidemic, which I consider to be primarily her husband’s dereliction, Nancy Reagan’s legacy is how her government propaganda became a pop culture catchphrase. She provided grandmotherly cover for the enactment of openly racist drug laws (such as mandatory minimum sentencing) that led to the United States becoming the most incarcerating country in human history. There were less than half a million people imprisoned when Nancy Reagan first urged children to “Just Say No” in 1982. That figure has increased five-fold since then, with an estimated 2.4 million Americans lockedup in 2015, and drug-related offenses accounting for a majority of arrests. As righteous as I feel in my condemnation of the Reagans’ drug legacy (I haven’t even mentioned the crack pipeline Reagan’s CIA established from South America to South Central Los Angeles), I take no comfort in what her death confirmed for me: People see and understand the world differently. Where I see benefits in schools substituting fruit cups for french fries, others see totalitarianism. Where they cheer the efforts to keep just one child drug-free, I weep for the generations of families and communities who were destabilized by drug Prohibition and the hopeless cauldron it brews in inner cities across America. With this much separation between worldviews on childhood obesity and drug addiction, it’s overwhelming to wonder how we will find common ground on such things as “religious liberty” vs. LGBT equality, or welcoming immigrants vs. building a wall. I seek comfort knowing that Americans have lived with differing views for centuries without killing each www.thegeorgiavoice.com

“There are Americans who have been waiting their entire lives, either 18 or 74 years, to punch a black man in the face or spit on a Latino, to sexually harass a Muslim woman or smear a queer, and Trump has convinced them that doing so is their patriotic duty…” other, but at no other time has Donald Trump been running for president. His rallies have become training grounds for white supremacy, attended by people who are desperate to learn how they can “speak their mind” the way Trump does, how they can shield themselves from “political correctness” and treat those who are different from them how they would have been treated “back in the old days.” There are Americans who have been waiting their entire lives, either 18 or 74 years, to punch a black man in the face or spit on a Latino, to sexually harass a Muslim woman or smear a queer, and Trump has convinced them that doing so is their patriotic duty, the only way to “Make America Great Again.” As much as I oppose responding to violence with violence, I was incredibly proud of my hometown for being the first to shut down a Trump rally. We may already be in an era that future generations will look back on and ask, “Did no one resist?” – and it is important for us, now and in the future, to remember Chicago. Perhaps it was the clouds of doom blanketing this election cycle that made me more forgiving of Hillary Clinton’s revisionist’s praise of Nancy Reagan’s legacy on HIV/ AIDS. Clinton’s error was insulting and unsurprising, but it’s harder to pull the trigger for friendly fire when it’s becoming ever more clear who really has their sights set on you.

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Ryan Lee is an Atlanta writer. March 18, 2016 Columnists 31

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