9/12/14, Vol. 5 Issue 14

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O F D E C AT U R

*Figures based on 24 mpg city/36 mpg hwy for 320i. May change as result of EPA testing. For model year 2015 or later vehicles sold or leased by an authorized BMW center on or after July 1, 2014, BMW Maintenance Program coverage is not transferable to subsequent purchasers, owners, or leasees.

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EDITORIAL

Editor: Dyana Bagby dbagby@thegavoice.com

IN THIS ISSUE OF GA VOICE

09.12.14

THE GEORGIA VOICE

PO Box 77401 | Atlanta, GA 30357 404-815-6941 | www.thegavoice.com

Deputy Editor: Patrick Saunders psaunders@thegavoice.com

NEWS

6 | News briefs 8 | Gay men vie to make election history 9 | HRC president apologizes to trans community 14 | Michelle Nunn critics met with opposition from strong supporters

Art Director: Rob Boeger rboeger@thegavoice.com

CONTRIBUTORS

Jim Farmer, Vandy Beth Glenn, Shannon Hames, Bill Kaelin, Ryan Lee, Steve Warren

FALL ARTS PREVIEW

BUSINESS

Publisher: Tim Boyd tboyd@thegavoice.com

Managing Partner: Christina Cash ccash@thegavoice.com Sales Manager: Marshall Graham mgraham@thegavoice.com Sales Executive: Anne Clarke aclarke@thegavoice.com Business Advisor: Lynn Pasqualetti Financial Firm of Record: HLM Financial Group

National Advertising: Rivendell Media, 908-232-2021 sales@rivendellmedia.com

OUTSPOKEN FRIENDS & FOES IN THEIR OWN WORDS

FINE PRINT

“I can’t claim that what I have achieved is equivalent to what a woman has achieved. For the first half of my life, I was male.”

—Martine Rothblatt, founder of United Therapeutics who also helped found Sirius Radio, and is the highest paid female CEO in America.

(New York magazine, Sept. 7)

PHOTO GALLERIES

36 | Black Gay Pride 37 | Dragon Con

COLUMNISTS

38 | That’s What She Said: Melissa Carter’s Dragon Con disappointment 39 | Sometimes ‘Y’: Ryan Lee dazzled by Black Gay Pride

—Tyler Posey (Scott McCall) from TV’s “Teen Wolf,” on how he feels about the show’s inclusion of LGBT characters. (The Advocate, Sept. 8) Photo via www.acslaw.org

Join us online: facebook.com/thegavoice twitter.com/thegavoice

“We love it and we’re happy to be able to show kids that it’s OK to be who you are.”

Publicity photo

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

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

A single copy of the GA Voice is available from authorized distribution points. Multiple copies are available from the Georgia Voice office only. Call for rates. If you are unable to reach a convenient free distribution point, you may receive a 26-issue mailed subscription for $60 per year.

Checks or credit card orders can be sent to Tim Boyd, tboyd@ thegavoice.com Postmaster: Send address changes to the GA Voice, PO Box 77401, Atlanta, GA 30357. The GA Voice is published every other Friday by The GA Voice, LLC. Individual subscriptions are $60 per year for 26 issues. Postage paid at Atlanta, GA, and additional mailing offices.

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

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

(Photo via CC/Woodhull Sexual Freedom Alliance)

In loving memory of Mike Ritter, 1965-2014

Check out our photo galleries for Black Gay Pride and Dragon Con. Pages 36-37

16 | TV: Gay Atlanta man lives dream on ‘The Walking Dead’ 17 | TV: I want my LGBTV, the hottest gay offerings this fall 19 | Events: Big Freedia bounces back to the A 19 | Events: Roundup of best fall events 25 | Music: Singer Tom Goss’ patience results in ‘Wait’ 25 | Music: Top 5 albums to have this season 27 | Theater: From Wonder Woman to the Elephant Man on local stages 29 | Film: ‘Love Is Strange’ puts gay marriage on big screen 29 | Film: Our list of blockbusters to watch out for 30 | Food: The Pig and The Pearl now open in Atlantic Station 32-34 | CALENDAR

“What about divorce — does Idaho prohibit divorce because it sends a bad message? Why don’t you then pass a law banning divorce in Idaho, which may have more of an effect than this [ban?]”

—Judge Stephen R. Reinhardt of the 9th Circuit Court of Appeals during arguments with Monte Stewart of the Coalition for the Protection of Marriage concerning the bans of same-sex marriage in Nevada, Hawaii and Idaho. Federal judges have upheld the bans in Nevada and Idaho. (MSNBC, Sept. 8)

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GA VOICE | 6

09.12.14

NEWS

NEWSIN BRIEF ise. Plaintiffs turn to this Court to vindicate their families’ rights to liberty and equality.”

Read the entire response at www.thegavoice.com.

— Patrick Saunders

POLICE INVESTIGATE MAN’S DEATH OVER BLACK GAY PRIDE WEEKEND

Lambda Legal Senior Attorney Tara Borelli

LAMBDA LEGAL ARGUES NOT TO DISMISS SAME-SEX MARRIAGE LAWSUIT

Lambda Legal filed its response opposing Georgia Attorney General Sam Olens’ motion to dismiss Inniss v. Aderhold, the federal class action lawsuit attempting to strike down the state’s 2004 same-sex marriage ban, arguing that the suit must be heard.

Olens filed the motion to dismiss on behalf of state registrar Deborah Aderhold, one of the three defendants in the case, in late July. Lambda Legal filed its opposition brief on Sept. 5. Next, the attorney general has the right to file a reply brief. It is not clear yet whether there will be oral arguments on Lambda Legal’s latest filing.

A judge fined Olens’ office $10,000 last week for failing to turn over evidence in a whistleblower lawsuit involving the state ethics commission and Gov. Nathan Deal’s office.

Olens’ Democratic opponent Greg Hecht came out strongly in support of marriage equality and has sworn to drop the state’s defense of the marriage equality ban should he assume office. Hecht also heavily criticized Olens over his decision to defend the ban. Olens and Hecht will face off in the Nov. 4 general election.

Beth Wurz, 41, and her wife Krista Wurz, 39, were recently added as plaintiffs in the suit.

Some notable passages from Lambda Legal’s response: • “Our courts did not wait for the democratic process to undo racial segregation. Our courts did not abandon the equal rights of women to politicians or polls. Our courts intervened to eliminate state bans on interracial marriage. And the Supreme Court rejected the State’s argument for deference when invalidating DOMA in Windsor.”

• “Our democracy functions and prevails because we promise liberty and equality for all. Our judiciary exists to enforce that prom-

East Point Police are investigating what happened to Henry Lee, 21, after he nearly drowned at a pool party while celebrating Black Gay Pride and then later died at a hospital.

Lee, 21, of Arkansas, also known as Amar’e, was found submerged in the swimming pool at the Holiday Inn North on Virginia Avenue on Aug. 30 at about 9 p.m.

East Point Police Major R. Popham said the department responded to a call at the Holiday Inn on Virginia Avenue at 8:57 p.m.

The College Park Fire and Rescue Department was already on the scene, he added.

“There was apparently a pool party and people were throwing people into the pool.

[Lee] was being pulled out of the pool by four individuals. No one knew how long he was submerged. One of his friends started looking for him after they couldn’t find him and then they found him in the pool,” Popham said.

Popham said Lee was taken to Atlanta Medical Center South, and when officers followed up with the medical staff they were told Lee had recovered with a pulse and was breathing on his own.

“He got admitted to the hospital on Aug. 30 and it appears the medical examiner was notified Sept. 2 of his death,” Popham said.

The cause of death is still undetermined, said Mark Guilbeau, an investigator with the Fulton County Medical Examiner’s Office, and lab tests including toxicology tests are being conducted.

“We’re not sure yet” what was the cause of Henry Lee death, said Guilbeau.

Popham said there was no physical violence or trauma on Lee’s body.

Lee was at a party sponsored by Wassup N ATL. Mario Harris, owner of company, said he had been speaking to Lee at about 8:30 p.m.

“He was fine, he was coherent. He was a social butterfly. Everyone was taking their pictures with him,” he said.

Then about 8:50 p.m. Harris returned to the pool and saw four people taking Lee out of the pool and giving him CPR. “Our team was giving him CPR and dealing with the situation. Everything was good

www.theGAVoice.com

Daniel Pierce (right, in glasses) looks on as Lost-N-Found Youth Executive Director Rick Westbrook speaks at the Sept. 5 ‘Brick by Brick’ launch. (Photo by Patrick Saunders)

at about 8:30 and then it was different,” Harris added.

— Dyana Bagby

LOST-N-FOUND LAUNCHES ‘BRICK BY BRICK’ CAPITAL CAMPAIGN

Lost-N-Found Youth, Atlanta’s homeless LGBT youth organization, held an event at its future Midtown home, allowing visitors to tour the facility and also announcing its latest fundraising efforts. The organization also introduced Daniel Pierce, the young Georgia man whose family assaulted him after he came out to them—an attack that was caught on video and went viral. Pierce is now a client of Lost-N-Found.

Visitors toured the facility, which has been cleaned out and will be ready to have electrical, HVAC and plumbing work done once permits are approved by the city. The new space will hold three times as many beds for the youth to use for shelter, going from six to eighteen.

Lost-N-Found leaders also touted the home’s location at Juniper and Fifth streets.

“This will become the premier youth shelter in Midtown/Downtown Atlanta,” said outreach director Art Izzard. “There is no other youth shelter within walking distance of where the majority of these youth are at on the streets.”

Executive Director Rick Westbrook told the crowd that six LGBT youths across the country die on the streets every day.

“We can’t have that. That’s just not the way I was raised,” he said. “I don’t care if you’re from the north or the south or another country. When you’re in Atlanta, we take care of our kids. And that’s what we’re going to do.”

And it was one of those LGBT youths the organization is helping that drew the most interest at the event. Pierce, the 19-year-old gay Georgia man whose video of his family assaulting him after coming out went viral, was in attendance. Pierce spoke briefly and thanked people for attending; Lost-NFound Youth did not make him available for interviews.

In the Brick By Brick campaign, donors can purchase 4 by 4 or 8 by 8 inch engraved bricks that will be put in place on the property. The goal is to sell 2,000 bricks, which would bring in at least $200,000 to go toward a $1 million capital campaign.

— Patrick Saunders

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09.12.14

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Three gay candidates vie to make history in November Openly gay man has never been elected to the Georgia General Assembly

By PATRICK SAUNDERS psaunders@thegavoice.com In the second week of January 2001, out lesbian Karla Drenner took office in State House District 85 covering Avondale Estates, becoming the first openly gay member of the Georgia General Assembly. Since then, two more lesbians joined the state legislature — Simone Bell in 2009 and Keisha Waites in 2012.

But no matter how many times they’ve tried, election year after election year, openly gay men have failed to get elected to the Gold Dome. The latest was Kyle Williams, who lost to Elena Parent in the Democratic primary for the Senate District 42 seat in May. Rashad Taylor came out while in office in 2011, but subsequently lost in his 2012 bid for re-election.

Three more openly gay men will try to make history in this November’s general election: Republican Christopher Deraney for House District 78 representing parts of Clayton County; Democrat Bob Gibeling for House District 54 in Buckhead; and Democrat Timothy Swiney for Senate District 9 in Gwinnett.

Openly gay lawyer Randy New failed to get the required number of signed petitions in order to get on the ballot for House District 56.

CANDIDATES’ SEXUALITY ISN’T COMING UP ON THE CAMPAIGN TRAIL

All three candidates say their sexual orientation has not come up in conversations with voters on the campaign trail.

“Not one time,” Deraney told the GA Voice.

“The only people that have mentioned it to me are those that I’m closer to, those that I’ve brought into my circle, community members that I’ve gotten to know. But as far as knocking on doors, no one’s said anything.”

Gibeling, who’s received the endorsements of both Georgia Equality and the Victory Fund, says he’s been asked about his stance on LGBT issues, but not about his sexual orientation in particular.

Swiney, who lost in the race for House District 101 in 2012 and is in a tough fight again this year in a primarily Republican district, says LGBT voters talk to him about it but that overall people are most concerned with issues like taxes and health care.

POLITICAL EXPERTS BREAK DOWN ‘EXTREMELY COMPLEX’ ISSUE

Political experts think it’s a mix of coinci-

Christopher Deraney, Bob Gibeling and Timothy Swiney are the three candidates hoping to become the first openly gay men elected to the Georgia General Assembly. (Courtesy photos)

dence and demographics.

“It may have something to do with a specific kind of constituency within a district,” Charles Bullock, political science professor at the University of Georgia, told the GA Voice.

Steve Anthony, a lecturer in the political science department at Georgia State University, concurs, saying it has to do with whether the district is ready for an openly gay representative.

“It’s individual districts and it’s where those districts are that first determines the wisdom, so to speak, of if someone can come out and have a viable chance of winning,” he says.

Georgia Equality Executive Director Jeff Graham says the issue is “extremely complex” and points to a number of different factors why openly gay men always end up on the losing end in elections for the Georgia General Assembly.

The racial and gender composition of the districts and the local support beyond the LGBT community must be considered, he says, but “gay men have been elected to office in city councils in Georgia and many of the successful women candidates have also faced anti-gay rhetoric in their campaigns, so we do know that it’s not as simple as voters rejecting gay men in general.”

‘THE OVERALL PROBLEM IS RECRUITING GOOD CANDIDATES’

Swiney says that the quality of women who have won has just been better.

“I don’t think it’s a matter of gay men not getting the votes, it’s that more qualified women are running,” he says. “The overall problem is recruiting good candidates.”

Gibeling agrees on the quality of the candidates, calling the women “great pioneers in the political arena” and praising them for reaching across a broad spectrum of supporters.

However, Deraney thinks it goes deeper than that.

“I think it comes down to male perceptions, and how masculinity is perceived here in the South,” he says. “But in a district like mine, the issue hasn’t been brought up. I think I have a harder time down here as a Republican than as a gay man.”

State Rep. Karla Drenner points to the losing candidates and not their sexuality, saying they lost because they either ran against unbeatable incumbents or just didn’t run a good campaign.

“All of them have been extremely well funded it seems to me,” she says. “I just don’t think they did enough door-to-door stuff so people can get to know them.”

CANDIDATES WHO HAPPEN TO BE GAY, NOT JUST GAY CANDIDATES

Overall, the candidates want to reiterate to people that they are people running for their respective seats who happen to be gay, not gay people running for their respective seats.

Swiney says he is running as a parent on issues that affect every family. Deraney is a champion of smaller government and what he calls “personal liberty.” Gibeling touts his business experience and faith-based background.

Bullock says Swiney and Deraney will have a rough road trying to come out on top come Election Day, and that Gibeling has a better shot in his race in Buckhead.

If it doesn’t happen for any of them and the Gold Dome drought continues, the experts still consider a win by an openly gay man to be an inevitability.

Are you registered to vote? Do you know what polling location to go to on Nov. 4? Visit www.mvp.sos.ga.gov to check. For more information on the candidates and their views, visit christopherjderaney.com, bobgibeling.com, and www.electtimothy.com.

NEWS

www.theGAVoice.com

09.12.14

GA VOICE

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HRC president apologizes to trans community at Southern Comfort And after more than 20 years in Atlanta, SCC moving to Florida

By Dyana Bagby dbagby@thegavoice.com Chad Griffin took the stage at the Southern Comfort Conference in Atlanta, acknowledged as president of the Human Rights Campaign that he was the “elephant in this room” and then apologized on behalf of HRC for the organization’s betrayal to trans people seven years ago.

“So I am here today, at Southern Comfort, to deliver a message. I deliver it on behalf of HRC, and I say it here in the hopes that it will eventually be heard by everyone who is willing to hear it,” he said Aug. 5. “HRC has done wrong by the transgender community in the past, and I am here to formally apologize.”

“Amen, it’s about time,” one person could be heard saying over applause.

Griffin spoke to about a crowd of approximately 300 during a lunchtime keynote address at the Crowne Plaza Hotel.

“I am sorry for the times when we stood

Trans community members applauded HRC President’s Chad Griffin apology at this year’s conference in Atlanta. (File photo)

apart when we should have been standing together. Even more than that, I am sorry for the times you have been underrepresented or unrepresented by this organization,” Griffin added. “What happens to trans people is absolutely central to the LGBT struggle. And as the nation’s largest LGBT civil rights organization, HRC has a responsibility to do that

struggle justice, or else we are failing at our fundamental mission.”

Griffin acknowledged that it was his responsibility to help close the large divide between HRC and the trans community.

Griffin didn’t mention specifics as to why the divide exists, but most notably in 2007 former HRC President Joe Solmonese gave a keynote address at Southern Comfort and promised HRC would only support a version of the federal Employment Non-Discrim­ ination Act which includes gender identity.

However, shortly after that speech, former U.S. Rep. Barney Frank, the only openly gay lawmaker in Congress at the time, said he had to remove the transgender aspect of the bill because it would not pass in Congress if the “T” was included. Many in the trans community said they were betrayed by HRC for supporting Frank and the non-inclusive ENDA. Marisa Sandlin of Florida, who has been attending Southern Comfort for 13 years and was in the audience in 2007 when Solmonese promised to support only an inclusive ENDA, said she was “cautiously optimistic” after hearing Griffin’s speech.

“I’ll give him the benefit of the doubt. It’s a start. I think Chad’s smart enough to know there is a divide. It started in 2007 when [Joe]

Solmonese and [former U.S. Rep.] Barney Frank sold us up the river,” she said. “There were a lot of hurt feelings.

“I think now he has to deliver. It’s just that simple,” she added. “Everyone wants to believe. They [HRC] do a lot of good work.

Right now everyone’s pumped up, but he has to deliver.”

SCC MOVING TO FLORIDA

The SCC board of directors announced during this year’s conference that it would be moving next year to Fort Lauderdale, Florida.

“Yes, we are moving the conference to Fort Lauderdale next year. We were approached by the Broward County Convention and Visitors Bureau last year,” JoAnn Purcell, this year’s conference chair, told the GA Voice.

“It was a lengthy process and a difficult decision. But, in the best interests of the conference and the community we serve, it was decided to move,” Purcell added.

Next year’s dates are Sept. 30 - Oct. 4, 2015, at the Bonaventure Resort and Spa Conference Center in Westin, Florida, she said. The conference is currently contracted to be in Florida through 2017.

Southern Comfort celebrated its 24th anniversary in Atlanta this year.

GA VOICE | 14

NEWS

09.12.14

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Political leaders, HRC rush to defense of Michelle Nunn Nunn campaign reportedly considering series of moves on LGBT issues

quarters on Sept. 3 for an LGBT volunteer night to ask the volunteers a few questions and seek answers from her staff.

Nunn’s press secretary, Michael Tyler, did not allow the GA Voice access to the volunteers, who were phone banking in the next room, and he refused to answer any questions on the record. The GA Voice was also denied an introduction to Click, who was in the building at the time.

By PATRICK SAUNDERS psaunders@thegavoice.com Atlanta political leaders and the Human Rights Campaign fired back at critics of Michelle Nunn’s stance on marriage equality and other LGBT issues, and the campaign is reportedly considering a series of moves that will repair her standing with the community and clear up confusion.

Gay attorneys Dan Grossman and Jeff Cleghorn penned an op-ed in August for the GA Voice urging Nunn to come out publicly and clearly in support of same-sex marriage and are leading a vocal charge against the candidate’s reticence to do so. Grossman said he, Cleghorn and Nunn supporter Mark Rinder, former board chair of AID Atlanta, met with her campaign manager Jeff DiSantis on Sept. 4. They requested that Nunn: n Fully and unambiguously support LGBT equality in marriage and all other areas n Commit to vote for the full repeal of DOMA n Support comprehensive employment non-discrimination legislation without religious exemptions broader than for any other group of Americans under current civil rights laws n Express the view that equality for any group of Americans is never something that can be left up to the voters n March in the upcoming Atlanta Pride parade

“The campaign asked for some time to consider our request and promised to respond within a week,” Grossman said. “We look forward to hearing back from them within the next few days.”

Meanwhile, both LGBT and non-LGBT political leaders and the Human Rights Campaign spoke up for the Democratic candidate for U.S. Senate, who will face Republican businessman David Perdue on Nov. 4 to decide who replaces Republican Sen. Saxby Chambliss.

The developments come as a Sept. 7 Wall Street Journal poll shows Nunn and Perdue running neck-and-neck in a race that has national implications.

TIMELINE SHOWS PROGRESSION OF MARRIAGE EQUALITY ISSUE

Nunn stated her opinion on marriage equality in her first interviews after announcing her U.S. Senate run last July, telling the Atlanta Journal-Constitution in a July 23 article that while she believes in marriage equality on a personal level, the definition of marriage should be left to individual states.

‘YOU’RE KIND OF DAMNED IF YOU DO AND DAMNED IF YOU DON’T’

Michelle Nunn, Democratic candidate for U.S. Senate, is running neck-and-neck with businessman David Perdue according to several recent polls. (File photo)

The AJC paraphrased her but Nunn later confirmed her stance to WVTM Columbus the following May, saying, “Marriage has traditionally been decided by the states, and I support that process. In addition to being a legal commitment, marriage is also a sacrament.

I would oppose any proposal that required a church to act outside its beliefs. Personally, I believe that all Americans should have the opportunity to share in the commitment and responsibility that my husband and I have shared for the past 12 years.”

However, there wasn’t much talk about her opinion until she received the endorsement of national LGBT rights organization the Human Rights Campaign the following March. Then a leaked internal strategy memo in July indicated confusion about her marriage equality views, omitted any mention of states’ rights and showed how the campaign intended to use its stance on marriage equality and the HRC endorsement to raise $300,000 from the LGBT community.

Once state Sen. Jason Carter, who is going up against Gov. Nathan Deal this November, stated his support for marriage equality on the record on Aug. 6, that left Nunn the one remaining in the spotlight with questions to answer, yet she would not clarify her stance.

DIFFERING POSITION THAN REPUBLICAN OPPONENT ON SAME-SEX MARRIAGE?

Nunn’s Republican opponent, David Perdue, wasn’t clear in a Feb. 16 interview with the Marietta Daily Journal about what he personally feels about marriage equality, but said it should be left up to the states, drawing parallels between the two.

“As a senator, I’ve got to uphold that, so I support that, whatever the law of the land is in Georgia,” he said. “As a U.S. senator, I’m not going to get involved in state decisions like this.

It’s a constitutional amendment. If that changes, then I will support that with the population.”

On Sept. 2, gay law school student Charlie Stadtlander took an inactive Facebook group that had urged Mayor Kasim Reed to “evolve”

on marriage equality (which he later did), and re-purposed it to question Nunn to clarify her views on marriage equality, employment non-discrimination and other LGBT issues.

“Nunn’s official position is that ‘the definition of marriage should be left to the states’ and she has refused to take an official position on employment non-discrimination or the full repeal of DOMA,” the group description stated. “Please help us tell Ms. Nunn that ‘states rights’ is no more acceptable for LGBT equality than it was for racial equality. If Michelle Nunn wants the support of the LGBT Community, she should join the other members of her party—around the nation and here in Georgia—and proudly stand in support of full LGBT Equality.”

This got the attention of the AJC on Sept.

3, which drew a response from Nunn spokesman Nathan Click, who made no mention of states’ rights.

“Michelle has said time and again that she believes that all Georgians should be allowed to share in marriage as she and her husband have done,” Click told the AJC. “She also believes that is not only a legal construct, but a sacrament, and every religious institution has to be able to define it for themselves. The reality is that Georgia voters have spoken on this issue—passing a constitutional ban on same sex marriage.”

“Michelle voted against it, but Georgia voters came to a different conclusion. Now it’s up to the courts to decide whether amendments like this are constitutional.” Click added. “In the Senate, Michelle would continue to stand for the equality of all Georgians. She would oppose any law that does not respect the right of all people to marry and would vote to repeal any discriminatory federal laws that have not yet been struck down by the court. There is a big difference between her and David Perdue on this issue.”

The GA Voice has been requesting an interview with Nunn to give her the opportunity to clarify her views on LGBT issues to the community since early this year. The GA Voice showed up at Nunn’s Midtown head-

The Human Rights Campaign had strong words in defense of Nunn when asked about her stance on marriage equality and other issues, claiming she “supports our full equality.” HRC said she supports many progressive issues which Perdue opposes, warning, “If David Perdue gets elected, good luck even getting a meeting,” according to a statement from Stephen Peters, HRC’s national press secretary, to the GA Voice.

“Based on the statement Nunn’s campaign made [in the Sept. 3 AJC article] it’s clear she believes that there’s a constitutional right to marry and that she would vote to repeal any federal statute that would infringe on that right,” Peters continued. “Perdue does not share that perspective. While her statement is important and welcome, Nunn’s already strong positions on issues of great importance to LGBT Georgians made our endorsement a moral and political imperative.”

HRC refused to answer a question directed at its president Chad Griffin, asking his views on her support of states’ rights since he was a leader in filing the lawsuit that ultimately led the U.S. Supreme Court to strike down Proposition 8, California’s constitutional amendment banning same-sex marriage in California.

Locally, Mayor Kasim Reed’s office gave a vote of confidence to Nunn and a plea to hold all candidates accountable.

“Mayor Reed believes that all candidates, both Republican and Democrat, should be held to the same standard—which is declaring marriage equality for all,” Mayor Reed’s director of communications Anne Torres wrote to the GA Voice. “Mayor Reed is confident that Michelle will continue to support marriage equality and fight for marriage as a fundamental right for everyone, regardless of sexual orientation.”

State Rep. Karla Drenner, a lesbian, sees both sides of the argument, but is clear in her opinion of the matter as well.

“You’re kind of damned if you do and damned if you don’t. You want them to win but you want them to take strong positions on our issues. You wonder if they don’t take a strong position on an issue, do you want them to win?” she tells the GA Voice. “I want them to win first and then take a strong position on our issues.

Consider where we live. We still live in Georgia.

I don’t think we live in a state that seems to be amenable at this juncture to having some candidate be out front on controversial issues.”

GA VOICE | 16

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TELEVISION PATRICK SAUNDERS

Bringing out the Dead

Gay Atlanta man on the life (and deaths) of a zombie on ‘The Walking Dead’ Tony Gowell, 41, has died three times. Yes, the gay East Point man has appeared in nine episodes of the locally filmed “The Walking Dead,” and has bitten the Georgia dust three times portraying a zombie (or “walker,” as the show’s characters call them).

He got his start as a child actor in the 1987 film “Ernest Goes To Camp” and will next be seen in the new locally filmed show “Constantine,” premiering Oct. 24 on NBC. Gowell gained zombie experience by portraying one in the box office smash “Zombieland” (filmed in Georgia) and he stays connected to the industry through his day job as director of the Dragon Con convention office, and is an official moderator for various Dragon Con panels.

He sat down with the GA Voice to talk about how long it takes to get made up, attending zombie school, trying to eat when wearing zombie makeup, working with the cast, scaring Atlanta citizens, and his dream kill.

What was the whole experience like?

It’s surreal from the standpoint of someone that doesn’t really work in horror very much and you see it come to life with the makeup and special effects that you don’t see on other film and TV sets. You don’t know how wildly popular a show is going to be and you’re shooting bits and pieces because they don’t give you the script for everything, so you don’t know what the finished product will look like.

So how did you end up being a zombie on “The Walking Dead”?

It originally started with me reaching out to the director of “Zombieland” [Ruben Fleischer].

He’s someone I know loosely and I was in search of being a zombie in honor of an acting coach of mine who had passed away. He had been a zombie in “Night of the Living Dead.”

So the same casting agency that hired the zombies for “Zombieland” got the contract to hire the zombies for “The Walking Dead.” They reached out into their Rolodex of zombies and I got to work on the show for two years. I was most recognized as one of the walkers that was kept inside the barn at Herschel’s farm.

How long does it take to get it taken off?

About half the time it takes to put on.

The trick to getting it off is generic shaving cream and a hot warm towel.

How long does it take to get made up each day?

It depends on what zombie role you’re fulfilling for the day. Sometimes it’s as little as 45 minutes or it can be as long as four or five hours. If you’re showing more skin, it takes longer. When they hire zombies for “The Walking Dead,” they tend to hire all the actors they’re going to hire for the season and then rotate through those actors.

Did you go to zombie school?

Yes, every season for the show they have what they call zombie school. It’s generally just a meet-and-greet for all the zombies that season and for the wardrobe department to do fittings and work with the makeup artists to test the chemicals on their skin, as well as the contact lens test, as well as a movement coach so they can begin plotting how they’ll use those actors for different scenes through-

What’s the most memorable story or experience you had on set?

My favorite is when we were shooting episode two for season one, as we were walking down Mitchell Street where Andrew Lincoln (who plays Rick Grimes) and Steven Yeun (Glenn Rhee) were dressed as zombies trying to sneak past all the walkers. It starts raining and while we were filming there was a hair salon called “Oh My Nappy Hair” and apparently they hadn’t notified their clients that we were shooting, so this woman walked around the corner and saw all of us and started screaming. Oh it was funny.

Gay Atlanta actor Tony Gowell in and out of makeup as a “walker” on “The Walking Dead.” (Courtesy photo)

out the show. You go through [zombie school] once and then you don’t go back again.

So when you’re on lunch or dinner breaks, are all the zombies just hanging out shooting the breeze in full zombie makeup?

Absolutely. You eat the best you can with all of that makeup on. If it’s a small enough scene, you’re eating with the cast and crew as well.

What was it like working with the cast?

They’re really great. They’re of course busy trying to keep their lines together but they have a lot of interaction with the background extras playing walkers. They love to chit-chat and break the ice. The days can be very long, so it’s nice to have that interaction with them.

Have you been killed?

Oh yeah, tons of times. Crazily enough Steven Yeun’s character, Glenn, has killed me in every episode I have died in. He shoots me in the head with a gun in episode five of season one, in season two I was shot in the head by Steven as I walk out of the barn, and he shoots me in the final episode of season two. It’s a running joke now when we’ve done panels together at conventions.

So if you had to get killed by a character, who would you want to do it, and how?

Oh my gosh. My son has a dream kill. My son plays the walker who ate Lori in the boiler room in season three, so Andrew Lincoln had that one-on-one time with him. So my son had the primo scene. I would love to have a scene like that with Norman Reedus’ character Daryl Dixon, but I want to be the one that takes him out. I want to be responsible for killing Daryl Dixon. That would be a dream walker kill.

FALL ARTS PREVIEW

ce.com www.theGAVoice.com

09.12.14

GA VOICE

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I want my LGBTV Actors, characters and storylines our community will be tuning in for this season

By PATRICK SAUNDERS Gone are the days of having that one character or one show with an LGBT character to rely on, and that one character or show wasn’t even worth it for much of the lesbian and transgender community, since it was usually a (white) gay male.

But it’s changing ever so slightly, season by season, and now there are many LGBT threads (although too light on the “T” yet again) running through this season’s TV lineup—it just takes some digging to search them all out. There are both new and established shows on this list and it is by no means a definitive list of fall shows with LGBT actors, characters, and storylines, but feel free to send those emails, comments and tweets to us anyway.

So get your phones, tablets, laptops, and televisions ready for the fall LGBTV season and use this guide to find the show for you.

‘Red Band Society’ (Sept. 17 on FOX)

Openly gay actor (“My So Called Life,” “Rent”) and GLAAD spokesperson Wilson Cruz returns to TV in this locally filmed comedy-drama about teenagers who live together as patients in the pediatric ward of a hospital. Cruz plays an openly gay nurse, and the show is headlined by gay fave Octavia Spencer (“The Help”).

‘The Good Wife’ (Sept. 21 on CBS)

“The Good Wife” is coming off of its most critically lauded seasons yet, and now the sixth season of the legal and political drama arrives packed with a consistent LGBT kick. Strong female lead characters Alicia Florrick (played by former “E.R.” star Julianna Margulies) and Diane Lockhart (played by “The Birdcage” actress Christine Baranski) are joined by bisexual private investigator Kalinda Sharma (Archie Panjabi) and Alicia’s gay brother Owen (Dallas Roberts). Several LGBT actors join the cast including bisexual actor Alan Cumming (as Eli Gold) and gay actor Nathan Lane (as Clarke Hayden), with the new addition this season of gay actor David Hyde Pierce (“Frasier”).

‘Modern Family’ (Sept. 24 on ABC)

The Pritchetts and Dunphys are back for season six, featuring as always everyone’s favorite bickering but loving couple Cam (Eric Stonestreet) and Mitch (openly gay actor Jesse Tyler Ferguson), along with their no-nonsense daughter Lily (the wonderful Aubrey Anderson-Emmons).

‘Survivor: San Juan del Sur: Blood vs. Water’ (Sept. 24 on CBS)

A gay Christian couple, Joshua Canfield, 32, and Reed Kelly, 31, are part of the cast this year. They are both Broadway singers and dancers with appearances

Clockwise from above: Jeffrey Tambor portrays a family patriarch coming out as transgender in the new Amazon series ‘Transparent.’ Wilson Cruz returns to TV in ‘Red Band Society.’ Jessica Lange and Jyoti Amge star in season five of ‘American Horror Story: Freak Show.’ (Publicity photos)

in “Wicked” and “Spider Man.” Also look for some fun interaction with John Rocker, former Atlanta Braves pitcher, perhaps most well-known for his anti-gay, anti-immigrant rant in Sports Illustrated.

‘The Mysteries of Laura’ (Sept. 24 on NBC)

Debra Messing has starred in shows with gay storylines that were hits (“Will & Grace”) and misses (“Smash”), and she’s back this fall as an NYPD homicide detective who is also a single mother to twin son—that kind of tough underdog role that the LGBT community identifies with.

‘Scandal’ (Sept. 25 on ABC)

The gladiators return for season four of Shonda Rhimes’ campy political thriller. Whether it’s Olivia Pope’s fabulous wardrobe, the plot twists and shockers, the over-the-top melodrama, Jeff Perry as gay White House chief of staff Cyrus Beene, or gay actor Guillermo Diaz as the troubled former B613 agent Huck, there’s enough gay bait in “Scandal” to fill up D.C.’s Potomac River.

‘How To Get Away With Murder’ (Sept. 25 on ABC)

This new entry comes from gay writer, creator, and executive producer Peter Nowalk and stars Viola Davis as a Philadelphia-area law professor who gets involved in a murder plot along with her students. Gay fave Shonda Rhimes is also an executive producer and the character of law student Connor Walsh (Jack Falahee) will be openly gay.

‘Transparent’ (Sept. 26 on Amazon)

Jeffrey Tambor (“Larry Sanders,” “Arrested Development”) stars in this new original series from Amazon about a family patriarch coming out as transgender, and the resulting experiences that the family goes through as a result. It’s loosely based on creator and director Jill Soloway’s expe-

rience having a parent come out as trans. Upping the LGBT quotient further, the show co-stars gay fave Judith Light (“Who’s the Boss?”), and one of the children in the show is conflicted about their sexuality. So this pretty much takes the LGBTV prize for the fall season.

‘Brooklyn Nine Nine’ (Sept. 28 on FOX)

The action comedy series starring Andy Samberg is coming off of its Golden Globe win for Best TV Series—Musical or Comedy, and the glue that holds the show together is Andre Braugher’s character Capt.

Ray Holt, the precinct’s emotionless but supportive openly gay commanding officer. When the gay community asks for more diversity and depth in how we are portrayed on TV, Holt is exactly what we mean.

‘Mulaney’ (Oct. 5 on FOX)

Comedian and former “Saturday Night Live” writer (and co-creator of the ultimate gay club kid, Stefon) John Mulaney gets a show of his own, and among his co-stars is Elliot Gould (“M.A.S.H.,” “Friends”), who plays his 71-year-old gay neighbor.

‘The Flash’ (Oct. 7 on The CW)

This spinoff of “Arrow” stars Grant Gustin in the superhero title role. You may remember Gustin for his stint as Sebastian, the scheming gay high schooler who tried to steal Blaine from Kurt on “Glee.” The show’s executive producers have also revealed the show will feature not one but two gay characters, plus the show’s co-stars include gay actor Wentworth Miller (“Prison Break”) and Jesse L. Martin, a veteran of both the stage and screen versions of the musical “Rent,” where he played Tom Collins.

‘American Horror Story: Freak Show’ (Oct. 8 on FX)

Who knows what’s going to spring from the demented mind of gay series creator Ryan Murphy,

fresh off receiving praise for directing HBO’s “The Normal Heart.” We do know the story is set in Florida in the early 1950s as one of the last remaining freak shows struggles to stay in business. Gay faves Jessica Lange, Angela Bassett, and Kathy Bates all return to camp it up, openly gay actor Denis O’Hare, returns and keep an eye out for new co-star—and we are not kidding—Patti Labelle.

‘The Walking Dead’ (Oct. 12 on AMC)

Robert Kirkman, writer and producer on the show and creator of the graphic novel on which it’s based, set tongues wagging last month when he hinted that crossbow-wielding heartthrob Daryl Dixon might be gay. However, showrunner Scott Gimple said it wouldn’t be addressed this upcoming season (the show’s fifth), but that a new gay male character will be introduced. Also, the lesbian character of Tara (Alanna Masterson) will return.

‘Marry Me’ (Oct. 14 on NBC)

Tim Meadows (“Saturday Night Live”) and openly gay actor Dan Bucatinsky (“Scandal”) have supporting roles in this new show, playing the gay adoptive dads of the lead character Annie (Casey Wilson from “Happy Endings”).

17

OUR MOVIES • OUR STORIES • OUR LIVES What is Out on Film?

Out on Film is Atlanta’s own LGBT film festival. We’re in our 27th season.

Out on Film was created in 1987 to inform, entertain, educate and enrich the regional LGBT community by recognizing the creative work of LGBT artists and professionals.

What films will be shown?

Out on Film selects a variety of films for our LGBT audiences, including comedies, dramas, romances and documentaries. In addition, we screen multi-racial and multicultural films.

Where is the event?

The majority of films are shown at the Landmark Midtown Art Cinema, 931 Monroe Drive, Atlanta GA 30308. Additional screenings will be held at other local venues.

Atlanta’s LGBT Film Festival Celebrating Pride at the Movies

October 2 - 9, 2014

How do I buy tickets?

Tickets can be purchased at www. outonfilm.org, the Landmark theater, and online at the Landmark’s website. For more ticket information please visit www.outonfilm.org.

Other activities?

Yes. Out on Film schedules opening and closing night parties plus events before and after select films, including Q&As with filmmakers.

How can I learn more?

For details about films and schedules, including trailers, special events, and volunteering go to

www.outonfilm.org

OUT ON FILM

{

Landmark Midtown Art Cinema

Just a sample of this year’s more than 80 films.

BLACKBIRD

MATT SHEPARD IS A FRIEND OF MINE

APPROPRIATE BEHAVIOR

THE WAY HE LOOKS

FALL ARTS PREVIEW

www.theGAVoice.com

09.12.14

GA VOICE

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25

EVENTS

Big Freedia bounces back to the A in September

Big Freedia plays Terminal West on Sept. 29 (Publicity photo)

By JOSEPH BROWNELL

MORE BIG FREEDIA

She’s not only the “Queen of Bounce,” these days Big Freedia is the queen of busy.

After a fierce duet with RuPaul, Big Freedia dropped “Just Be Free,” a batch of booty poppin’ tracks guaranteed to make even the rhythmless twerk, in June. Now, she’s embarking on a fall tour that’s making stops in 20-plus cities between now and Halloween, and her hit Fuse show, “Big Freedia: Queen of Bounce,” was just renewed for not one but two seasons.

We caught up with Big Freedia to chat about her Sept. 29 show in Atlanta at Terminal West, why she takes her role in the LGBT community seriously and how she’s still waiting for Miley Cyrus to call.

You’ve had one helluva summer dropping your album “Just Be Free,” your show “Big Freedia: Queen of Bounce” was just renewed for not one but two seasons and

To read the full interview, visit www.thegavoice.com.

you’re kicking off a 20-city fall tour next week—is there anywhere Big Freedia isn’t bouncing these days?

In China. That’s the next place I wanna conquer.

You named your album “Just Be Free.”

I’m curious if there have been times in your career where you haven’t felt free?

Most definitely. When I was younger and first starting out, there were lots of people who weren’t so accepting. It took years and lots of supportive friends and family for me to really “feel free.”

Identity politics has experienced an explosive growth in the past few years. In a

2011 interview with “Offbeat” you said “I am not transgendered; I am just a gay male … I wear women’s hair and carry a purse, but I am a man. I answer to either he or she.”

How invested are you in these politics?

Well, I’m very invested. Of course, I take my position as a leader of the LGBT community seriously. I want all the lesbians and gay youth to feel like they can see someone who has been through it and come out OK on the other side. All that said, I also try not to let it consume me. That’s what I want people to get from a Big Freedia show.

Free your azzzzzz and your mind will follow.

After last year’s MTV VMA awards, you said that Miley Cyrus needed to give you, The Queen of Twerking, a call so you could ‘give her ass some lessons.’ Have you gotten your chance?

Not yet, but I’m still here (laughs).

What can fans expect from the tour?

Big Freedia times 10! We’ve taken our show to a new level, working with a new choreographer, and really bringing a performance to fans.

Catch some of these LGBT faves this season

By DYANA BAGBY Fall in Atlanta and Georgia is the perfect time to enjoy the cooler temperatures and step outside for numerous fun outdoor activities and events.

The annual LGBT Out on Film Fest Oct. 2-9 brings in the best to the city for moviegoers seeking a chance to see representations of their lives on the big screen.

Then, the largest Pride in the Southeast comes to Atlanta Oct. 11-12 followed a week later by the annual AIDS Walk Atlanta & 5K Run on Oct. 19. This fall, people get a chance to see raunchy comedian Sandra Berhnard on Oct. 18 with proceeds benefiting the AIDS Walk.

Music fests galore also happen in the fall with Music Midtown later this month and the popular electronic dance music happening TomorrowWorld Sept. 26-28.

There are of course the tried

and true and favorite food fests, such as the Taste of Atlanta Oct. 26-27 and then the Chomp and Stomp in Cabbagetown on Nov. 1.

Gay favorites such as Jerusalem House’s annual Halloween bash, this year titled “Traveling Through Time,” is set for Oct. 25.

What else is lined up? Check out our top picks:

FALL EVENTS

SAVANNAH PRIDE Sept. 13, Forsyth Park in Savannah www.savannahpride.com CHATTAHOOCHEE VALLEY PRIDE (CVPRIDE) Sept. 13, Flat Rock Park in Columbus, Ga. www.facebook.com/cv.pride.3 MARIETTA PRIDE Begins Sept. 13, events for several weeks www.rainbowgeorgia.org ATHENS PRIDE Sept. 13-14, www.athenspride.com

ONE MUSICFEST Aaron’s Amphitheatre at Lakewood Sept. 13, www.onemusicfest.com

OUT ON FILM Oct. 2-9, Landmark Theatres www.outonfilm.org

JERUSALEM HOUSE PRESENTS TRAVELING THROUGH TIME Oct. 25, www.jerusalemhouse.org

ATLANTA ARTS FESTIVAL Sept. 13, Piedmont Park www.atlantaartsfestival.com

ATLANTA PRIDE OFFICIAL KICKOFF PARTY Oct. 10, Georgia Aquarium www.atlantapride.org

TASTE OF ATLANTA Oct. 26-27, Tech Square in Midtown www.tasteofatlanta.com

MUSIC MIDTOWN Sept. 19-20, Piedmont Park www.musicmidtown.com FIFTH ANNUAL SOUTH GA PRIDE FEST Sept. 20, John W. Saunders Park in Valdosta. www.southgapride.com TOMORROWWORLD Sept. 26-28, Chattahoochee Hills www.tomorrowworld.com

ATLANTA PRIDE FEST AND PARADE Oct. 11-12, Piedmont Park www.atlantapride.org LITTLE 5 POINTS HALLOWEEN FESTIVAL & PARADE Oct. 18, Little Five Points l5phalloween.com

EAST ATLANTA STRUT Sept. 27, www.eastatlantastrut.com

SANDRA BERHNARD Oct. 18, a benefit for AIDS Walk Atlanta & 5K Run W Atlanta - Midtown www.sandrainatlanta.com

LAMBDA LEGAL IN ATLANTA Sept. 28, City Club of Atlanta tinyurl.com/m3u8msp

AIDS WALK ATLANTA & 5K RUN Oct. 19, Piedmont Park www.aidswalkatlanta.com

CABBAGETOWN CHOMP AND STOMP Nov. 1, Cabbagetown Neighborhood www.chompandstomp.com CHASTAIN PARKS ARTS FESTIVAL Nov. 1, Chastain Park www.chastainparkartsfestival.com TRANSGENDER DAY OF REMEMBRANCE (TDOR) Nov. 20, TBD WORLD AIDS DAY Dec. 1, www.worldaidsday.org FOR THE KID IN ALL OF US TOY PARTY Dec. 7, forthekid.org

What is STRIBILD? STRIBILD is a prescription medicine used to treat HIV-1 in adults who have never taken HIV-1 medicines before. It combines 4 medicines into 1 pill to be taken once a day with food. STRIBILD is a complete single-tablet regimen and should not be used with other HIV-1 medicines.

STRIBILD does not cure HIV-1 infection or AIDS. To control HIV-1 infection and decrease HIV-related illnesses you must keep taking STRIBILD. Ask your healthcare provider if you have questions about how to reduce the risk of passing HIV-1 to others. Always practice safer sex and use condoms to lower the chance of sexual contact with body fluids.

Never reuse or share needles or other items that have body fluids on them.

IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION What is the most important information I should know about STRIBILD? STRIBILD can cause serious side effects: • Build-up of an acid in your blood (lactic acidosis), which is a serious medical emergency. Symptoms of lactic acidosis include feeling very weak or tired, unusual (not normal) muscle pain, trouble breathing, stomach pain with nausea or vomiting, feeling cold especially in your arms and legs, feeling dizzy or lightheaded, and/or a fast or irregular heartbeat.

• Serious liver problems. The liver may become large (hepatomegaly) and fatty (steatosis). Symptoms of liver problems include your skin or the white part of your eyes turns yellow (jaundice), dark “tea-colored” urine, light-colored bowel movements (stools), loss of appetite for several days or longer, nausea, and/or stomach pain.

• You may be more likely to get lactic acidosis or serious liver problems if you are female, very overweight (obese), or have been taking STRIBILD for a long time. In some cases, these serious conditions have led to death. Call your healthcare provider right away if you have any symptoms of these conditions.

• Worsening of hepatitis B (HBV) infection. If you also have HBV and stop taking STRIBILD, your hepatitis may suddenly get worse. Do not stop taking STRIBILD without first talking to your healthcare provider, as they will need to monitor your health. STRIBILD is not approved for the treatment of HBV.

Who should not take STRIBILD? Do not take STRIBILD if you: • Take a medicine that contains: alfuzosin, dihydroergotamine, ergotamine, methylergonovine, cisapride, lovastatin, simvastatin, pimozide, sildenafil when used for lung problems (Revatio®), triazolam, oral midazolam, rifampin or the herb St. John’s wort.

• For a list of brand names for these medicines, please see the Brief Summary on the following pages.

• Take any other medicines to treat HIV-1 infection, or the medicine adefovir (Hepsera®).

What are the other possible side effects of STRIBILD? Serious side effects of STRIBILD may also include: • New or worse kidney problems, including kidney failure. Your healthcare provider should do regular blood and urine tests to check your kidneys before and during treatment with STRIBILD. If you develop kidney problems, your healthcare provider may tell you to stop taking STRIBILD. • Bone problems, including bone pain or bones getting soft or thin, which may lead to fractures. Your healthcare provider may do tests to check your bones.

• Changes in body fat can happen in people taking HIV-1 medicines.

• Changes in your immune system.

Your immune system may get stronger and begin to fight infections. Tell your healthcare provider if you have any new symptoms after you start taking STRIBILD. The most common side effects of STRIBILD include nausea and diarrhea.

Tell your healthcare provider if you have any side effects that bother you or don’t go away.

What should I tell my healthcare provider before taking STRIBILD? • All your health problems. Be sure to tell your healthcare provider if you have or had any kidney, bone, or liver problems, including hepatitis virus infection.

• All the medicines you take, including prescription and nonprescription medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements. STRIBILD may affect the way other medicines work, and other medicines may affect how STRIBILD works. Keep a list of all your medicines and show it to your healthcare provider and pharmacist. Do not start any new medicines while taking STRIBILD without first talking with your healthcare provider.

• If you take hormone-based birth control (pills, patches, rings, shots, etc).

• If you take antacids. Take antacids at least 2 hours before or after you take STRIBILD. • If you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. It is not known if STRIBILD can harm your unborn baby. Tell your healthcare provider if you become pregnant while taking STRIBILD. • If you are breastfeeding (nursing) or plan to breastfeed.

Do not breastfeed. HIV-1 can be passed to the baby in breast milk. Also, some medicines in STRIBILD can pass into breast milk, and it is not known if this can harm the baby.

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

Please see Brief Summary of full Prescribing Information with important warnings on the following pages.

STRIBILD is a prescription medicine used as a complete single-tablet regimen to treat HIV-1 in adults who have never taken HIV-1 medicines before. STRIBILD does not cure HIV-1 or AIDS.

I started my personal revolution Talk to your healthcare provider about starting treatment.

STRIBILD is a complete HIV-1 treatment in 1 pill, once a day.

Ask if it’s right for you.

Patient Information STRIBILD® (STRY-bild) (elvitegravir 150 mg/cobicistat 150 mg/emtricitabine 200 mg/ tenofovir disoproxil fumarate 300 mg) tablets Brief summary of full Prescribing Information. For more information, please see the full Prescribing Information, including Patient Information.

What is STRIBILD? • STRIBILD is a prescription medicine used to treat HIV-1 in adults who have never taken HIV-1 medicines before. STRIBILD is a complete regimen and should not be used with other HIV-1 medicines.

• STRIBILD does not cure HIV-1 or AIDS. You must stay on continuous HIV-1 therapy to control HIV-1 infection and decrease HIV-related illnesses.

• Ask your healthcare provider about how to prevent passing HIV-1 to others. Do not share or reuse needles, injection equipment, or personal items that can have blood or body fluids on them. Do not have sex without protection. Always practice safer sex by using a latex or polyurethane condom to lower the chance of sexual contact with semen, vaginal secretions, or blood.

What is the most important information I should know about STRIBILD? STRIBILD can cause serious side effects, including: 1. Build-up of lactic acid in your blood (lactic acidosis). Lactic acidosis can happen in some people who take STRIBILD or similar (nucleoside analogs) medicines. Lactic acidosis is a serious medical emergency that can lead to death. Lactic acidosis can be hard to identify early, because the symptoms could seem like symptoms of other health problems. Call your healthcare provider right away if you get any of the following symptoms which could be signs of lactic acidosis: • feel very weak or tired • have unusual (not normal) muscle pain • have trouble breathing • have stomach pain with nausea or vomiting • feel cold, especially in your arms and legs • feel dizzy or lightheaded • have a fast or irregular heartbeat 2. Severe liver problems. Severe liver problems can happen in people who take STRIBILD. In some cases, these liver problems can lead to death. Your liver may become large (hepatomegaly) and you may develop fat in your liver (steatosis). Call your healthcare provider right away if you get any of the following symptoms of liver problems: • your skin or the white part of your eyes turns yellow (jaundice) • dark “tea-colored” urine • light-colored bowel movements (stools) • loss of appetite for several days or longer • nausea • stomach pain You may be more likely to get lactic acidosis or severe liver problems if you are female, very overweight (obese), or have been taking STRIBILD for a long time.

3. Worsening of Hepatitis B infection. If you have hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection and take STRIBILD, your HBV may get worse (flare-up) if you stop taking STRIBILD. A “flare-up” is when your HBV infection suddenly returns in a worse way than before.

• Do not run out of STRIBILD. Refill your prescription or talk to your healthcare provider before your STRIBILD is all gone

• Do not stop taking STRIBILD without first talking to your healthcare provider • If you stop taking STRIBILD, your healthcare provider will need to check your health often and do blood tests regularly for several months to check your HBV infection. Tell your healthcare provider about any new or unusual symptoms you may have after you stop taking STRIBILD Who should not take STRIBILD? Do not take STRIBILD if you also take a medicine that contains: • adefovir (Hepsera®) • alfuzosin hydrochloride (Uroxatral®) • cisapride (Propulsid®, Propulsid Quicksolv®) • ergot-containing medicines, including: dihydroergotamine mesylate (D.H.E. 45®, Migranal®), ergotamine tartrate (Cafergot®, Migergot®, Ergostat®, Medihaler Ergotamine®, Wigraine®, Wigrettes®), and methylergonovine maleate (Ergotrate®, Methergine®) • lovastatin (Advicor®, Altoprev®, Mevacor®) • oral midazolam • pimozide (Orap®) • rifampin (Rifadin®, Rifamate®, Rifater®, Rimactane®) • sildenafil (Revatio®), when used for treating lung problems • simvastatin (Simcor®, Vytorin®, Zocor®) • triazolam (Halcion®) • the herb St. John’s wort Do not take STRIBILD if you also take any other HIV-1 medicines, including: • Other medicines that contain tenofovir (Atripla®, Complera®, Viread®, Truvada®) • Other medicines that contain emtricitabine, lamivudine, or ritonavir (Atripla®, Combivir®, Complera®, Emtriva®, Epivir® or Epivir-HBV®, Epzicom®, Kaletra®, Norvir®, Trizivir®, Truvada®) STRIBILD is not for use in people who are less than 18 years old.

What are the possible side effects of STRIBILD? STRIBILD may cause the following serious side effects: • See “What is the most important information I should know about STRIBILD?” • New or worse kidney problems, including kidney failure. Your healthcare provider should do blood and urine tests to check your kidneys before you start and while you are taking STRIBILD. Your healthcare provider may tell you to stop taking STRIBILD if you develop new or worse kidney problems.

• Bone problems can happen in some people who take STRIBILD. Bone problems include bone pain, softening or thinning (which may lead to fractures). Your healthcare provider may need to do tests to check your bones.

• Changes in body fat can happen in people who take HIV-1 medicine.

These changes may include increased amount of fat in the upper back and neck (“buffalo hump”), breast, and around the middle of your body (trunk). Loss of fat from the legs, arms and face may also happen. The exact cause and long-term health effects of these conditions are not known.

• Changes in your immune system (Immune Reconstitution Syndrome) can happen when you start taking HIV-1 medicines. Your immune system may get stronger and begin to fight infections that have been hidden in your body for a long time. Tell your healthcare provider right away if you start having any new symptoms after starting your HIV-1 medicine.

The most common side effects of STRIBILD include: • Nausea • Diarrhea Tell your healthcare provider if you have any side effect that bothers you or that does not go away.

• These are not all the possible side effects of STRIBILD. For more information, ask your healthcare provider.

• Call your healthcare provider for medical advice about side effects.

You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

What should I tell my healthcare provider before taking STRIBILD? Tell your healthcare provider about all your medical conditions, including: • If you have or had any kidney, bone, or liver problems, including hepatitis B infection • If you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. It is not known if STRIBILD can harm your unborn baby. Tell your healthcare provider if you become pregnant while taking STRIBILD. - There is a pregnancy registry for women who take antiviral medicines during pregnancy. The purpose of this registry is to collect information about the health of you and your baby. Talk with your healthcare provider about how you can take part in this registry.

• If you are breastfeeding (nursing) or plan to breastfeed. Do not breastfeed if you take STRIBILD. - You should not breastfeed if you have HIV-1 because of the risk of passing HIV-1 to your baby.

- Two of the medicines in STRIBILD can pass to your baby in your breast milk. It is not known if the other medicines in STRIBILD can pass into your breast milk.

- Talk with your healthcare provider about the best way to feed your baby.

Tell your healthcare provider about all the medicines you take, including prescription and nonprescription medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements: • STRIBILD may affect the way other medicines work, and other medicines may affect how STRIBILD works.

• Be sure to tell your healthcare provider if you take any of the following medicines: - Hormone-based birth control (pills, patches, rings, shots, etc) - Antacid medicines that contain aluminum, magnesium hydroxide, or calcium carbonate. Take antacids at least 2 hours before or after you take STRIBILD - Medicines to treat depression, organ transplant rejection, or high blood pressure - amiodarone (Cordarone®, Pacerone®) - atorvastatin (Lipitor®, Caduet®) - bepridil hydrochloride (Vascor®, Bepadin®) - bosentan (Tracleer®) - buspirone - carbamazepine (Carbatrol®, Epitol®, Equetro®, Tegretol®) - clarithromycin (Biaxin®, Prevpac®) - clonazepam (Klonopin®) - clorazepate (Gen-xene®, Tranxene®) - colchicine (Colcrys®) - medicines that contain dexamethasone - diazepam (Valium®)

- digoxin (Lanoxin®) - disopyramide (Norpace®) - estazolam - ethosuximide (Zarontin®) - flecainide (Tambocor®) - flurazepam - fluticasone (Flovent®, Flonase®, Flovent® Diskus®, Flovent® HFA, Veramyst®) - itraconazole (Sporanox®) - ketoconazole (Nizoral®) - lidocaine (Xylocaine®) - mexiletine - oxcarbazepine (Trileptal®) - perphenazine - phenobarbital (Luminal®) - phenytoin (Dilantin®, Phenytek®) - propafenone (Rythmol®) - quinidine (Neudexta®) - rifabutin (Mycobutin®) - rifapentine (Priftin®) - risperidone (Risperdal®, Risperdal Consta®) - salmeterol (Serevent®) or salmeterol when taken in combination with fluticasone (Advair Diskus®, Advair HFA®) - sildenafil (Viagra®), tadalafil (Cialis®) or vardenafil (Levitra®, Staxyn®), for the treatment of erectile dysfunction (ED). If you get dizzy or faint (low blood pressure), have vision changes or have an erection that last longer than 4 hours, call your healthcare provider or get medical help right away.

- tadalafil (Adcirca®), for the treatment of pulmonary arterial hypertension - telithromycin (Ketek®) - thioridazine - voriconazole (Vfend®) - warfarin (Coumadin®, Jantoven®) - zolpidem (Ambien®, Edlular®, Intermezzo®, Zolpimist®) Know the medicines you take. Keep a list of all your medicines and show it to your healthcare provider and pharmacist when you get a new medicine. Do not start any new medicines while you are taking STRIBILD without first talking with your healthcare provider.

Keep STRIBILD and all medicines out of reach of children.

This Brief Summary summarizes the most important information about STRIBILD. If you would like more information, talk with your healthcare provider. You can also ask your healthcare provider or pharmacist for information about STRIBILD that is written for health professionals, or call 1-800-445-3235 or go to www.STRIBILD.com.

Issued: October 2013

COMPLERA, EMTRIVA, GILEAD, the GILEAD Logo, GSI, HEPSERA, STRIBILD, the STRIBILD Logo, TRUVADA, and VIREAD are trademarks of Gilead Sciences, Inc., or its related companies. ATRIPLA is a trademark of Bristol-Myers Squibb & Gilead Sciences, LLC. All other marks referenced herein are the property of their respective owners. © 2014 Gilead Sciences, Inc. All rights reserved. STBC0080 03/14

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MUSIC

Tom Goss shows patience with ‘Wait’

New album a slow, steady growth of music

5 fall must-have albums • Barbra Streisand “Partners” — Sept. 16

By JOSEPH BROWNELL

Babs caught our attention when she joined Instagram last month and now the classic chanteuse is bringing an army of friends to the table for “Partners,” her first studio album since 2011. Streisand will be joined by Michael Bublé, John Legend and Elvis. Yes, Elvis.

A bear is the last thing you might call the blonde-haired, blue-eyed Tom Goss, but his affinity for the gay subculture made viral waves last year when the singer-songwriter released his ode to hairy happiness, “Bears.”

The song and its hilarious video opened the door to invitations to play at bear festivals across the world as well as national blog attention for his independent music career.

While touring has kept Goss busy, he somehow managed to record and release another album in the last year and is bringing those tunes to Smith’s Olde Bar on Oct. 23.

We caught up with Goss to talk about the spectrum of genres on his latest record, the Atlanta experience that found its way into the title track, and why he’ll take some ownership of the attention of the world’s bears.

You’re returning to Atlanta in support of your fourth full-length record, “Wait,” a much more plugged-in album than your last one, which you sequestered yourself in Virginia to make. Can you talk a bit about the process of writing and recording the songs?

I needed to make “Lost Songs” and “Underdogs” (the record I disappeared to Virginia to make) to come into my own as an artist and prove to myself I could do all the things I had previously hired folks to do. For “Wait,” I linked back up with Mike Ofca—who produced 2009’s “Back to Love” and 2011’s “Turn it Around”—to get back to producing a bigger sound. There was a much clearer vision on this record than previously. I also had been kicking these songs around with my band for a couple months before we went into the studio. As a result, there is a cohesiveness and maturity to the songs that wasn’t always there previously. In the past, the songs were new, they were just bones, I hired a studio band and they came to life in the studio, they were born in hours, sometimes minutes. That is also an amazing process, but “Wait” was much more organic, a slow and steady growth.

The album’s title track “Wait,” is very rockabilly and you actually give Georgia a shout-out in the song. Where in Georgia did the influence for that line come from?

Erasure “The Violet Flame” — Sept. 23

After delivering a Yuletide collection in 2013, Andy Bell and Vince Clarke packed away Christmas and headed down to Miami to record another symphonic synthpop studio album. Catch Erasure at The Atlanta Symphony Hall Sept. 17.

Prince “Art Official Age” and “PLECTRUMELECTRUM” — Sept. 30

Tom Goss returns to Atlanta on Oct. 23 with a show at Smith’s Olde Bar. (Photo by Tom Goss). (Stevie Nicks photo courtesy Warner Bros./Kristin Burns)

DETAILS Visit www.thegavoice.com to read the entire Tom Goss interview.

(Laughs) Atlanta actually! I was having a conversation with a guy who kept dropping John Mayer’s name. The funny thing about the music business is you constantly have folks telling you what to do, telling you what to write about, telling you who to be. I took some of those experiences and pooled them together into “Wait” to poke fun at this constant struggle between art and exposure.

“You and Me” is a very heartfelt ode to the long haul—was the inspiration personal?

I always draw from my personal experience when writing music. Look, a relationship isn’t always easy, everyone knows that. What makes it possible is the idea that you’re not alone in this journey. We think of it as ‘me against the world,’ because there

is so much up against you. But when you find someone special, it really becomes ‘us against the world,’ and there is solace, comfort and strength in that.

Since we last spoke, your ode to hairy happiness, “Bears,” went viral and opened up invitations to play across the world.

Were you surprised that the video and song struck the chord that it did?

I’m always surprised that anyone responds to what I do (laughs). I’m just trying to write music that speaks to me. I’m trying to be authentic and honest. When other people respond to what I write, I am honored.

There are so many artists out there, doing so many amazing things, I’m just happy to be a part of the mix.

Although you’re married, did the video open you up to a bunch of proposals or propositions?

Yeah. It’s silly, but I am laying mostly naked in a kiddy pool so I’ll take some of the ownership for that.

Thirty years after releasing the ubiquitous “Purple Rain,” Prince is dropping two albums this fall. First the long-touted “PLECTRUMELECTRUM,” an album featuring his all-female backing band, 3rd Eye Girl. If early tracks are any indication, the album is quite abstract, but don’t fret, fans of classic Prince should check out “Art Official Age” which is being described as a more proper solo album.

Stevie Nicks “24 Karat Gold: Songs from the Vault” — Oct. 7

After guest starring as the witchy woman on last season’s American Horror Story, Stevie Nicks goes back to the vault for unrecorded fan favorites from the ’60s through the ’90s for this fall’s 24 Kart Gold. Two singles (“The Dealer” and “Lady”) have been released and while the CD will see a physical and digital release in October, fans can get a special double vinyl edition Sept. 30.

Mary Lambert “Heart on my Sleeve” — Oct. 14

If there’s one artist to watch this fall, it’s Mary Lambert. Lambert provided the hook on the Macklemore & Ryan Lewis marriage equality monster-hit “Same Love” and has shared all of her business with lead single “Secrets.” But what’s more impressive is that we have an openly queer musician talking about things in pop music that no one has talked about yet and for that Lambert deserves all of our support.

— Joseph Brownwell

25

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THEATER JIM FARMER

Metro Atlanta theaters full of fall LGBT fare From Wonder Woman to Annie Potts, local stages love leading women It’s time for the fall theater season, and virtually every theater company in the ATL has a new show that has just opened or is about to. Here’s a look at some potential gems of interest to the LGBT community for the 2014-2015 season.

The Alliance Theatre often hosts a world premiere musical as its season opener, and this year is no exception. The company’s “Bull Durham” is currently in previews, officially opening on Sept. 13. It’s based, of course, on the hit movie of the same name about Ron Shelton’s experiences as a minor league baseball player. Here Melissa Errico plays Annie Savoy, the groupie character brought to life by the wondrous Susan Sarandon in the film. In charge of the lyrics is bisexual musician/songwriter Susan Werner.

This is Werner’s first theatrical experience, and she is equally excited and nervous about it, but she feels that LGBT audiences will especially appreciate the musical. “I think the show is a battle of the sexes,” she says. “I think one of the delights of it is how playful Ron Shelton is with the sexes, with gender, fluidity, comments about fluidity, insecurity about fluidity. How playful he is with the battle of the sexes and integration of gender will be a delight to people.”

Also at the Alliance, and likely to be the LGBT ticket of the season, is a new take on “Steel Magnolias,” Robert Harling’s Southern comedy-drama. This version will be directed

by Judith Ivey, who helmed the company’s “Carapace’ a few seasons ago, and will star the luminous Annie Potts as M’Lynn. Ivey and Potts were “Designing Women” co-stars.

WONDER WOMAN AND THE ELEPHANT MAN

Lesbian director Melissa Foulger won’t have much downtime this season. First up is her take on “Les Liaisons Dangereuses,” Christopher Hampton’s sexy costume drama, currently playing at Actor’s Express. Soon after, Foulger is directing the award-winning comedy-drama “Clybourne Park” at Aurora Theatre. With a wonderful cast, including Tess Malis Kincaid, this production about race relations over a 50-year span should definitely be worth a look.

Synchronicity Theatre’s “Lasso of Truth”

“BULL DURHAM” Alliance Theatre 1280 Peachtree St. NE, Atlanta, GA 30309 Through Oct. 5 www.alliancetheatre.org “LES LIAISONS DANGEREUSES” Actor’s Express 887 W. Marietta St., Atlanta, GA 30318 Through Oct. 5 www.actorsexpress.com “PERFECT ARRANGEMENT” Process Theatre via Onstage Atlanta 2969 East Ponce de Leon Ave., Decatur, GA 30030 Sept. 12 – Oct. 4 www.onstageatlanta.com “LASSO OF TRUTH” Synchronicity Theatre 1545 Peachtree Street, Atlanta, GA 30309 Sept. 26 – Oct. 19 www.synchrotheatre.com “CLYBOURNE PARK” Aurora Theatre 128 East Pike Street, Lawrenceville, GA, 30046 Oct. 2 - 26 www.auroratheatre.com ‘Lasso of Truth’ opening this month at Synchronicity Theatre is a story about the creation of Wonder Woman and stars Bryn Striepe as The Amazon. Coming to the Alliance Theatre this fall is the classic ‘Steel Magnolias’ starring film and TV star Annie Potts as M’Lynn. (‘Lasso’ photo by Bree Anne Clowdus, Potts is publicity photo)

is another production that looks promising.

It features some strong LGBT fare, says Rachel May, the artistic director who is directing the rolling world premiere. According to May, the play—written by Carson Kreitzer— is about sexual politics, in particular the life of William Moulton Marston, a psychologist who came up with the idea of comic book superhero Wonder Woman. His personal relationships were unorthodox, to say the least.

“He and his wife Elizabeth were in a polyamorous relationship with another woman, Olive Byrne, a student of his,” says May. The two women were eventually his inspiration for the character. May acknowledges their bond was bold for the time, circa the early 1940s. “It’s still not common,” she says.

“I think it was under wraps at the time, but did some people know?” Marston was also into bondage, which works itself into the play. Gay actress Christen Orr is in the cast.

Throughout its history, 7 Stages has nev-

er been afraid to go after edgy material, and that has not changed under the leadership of out artistic director Heidi S. Howard. In October the company is staging Suehyla El-Attar’s fantasy-comedy “The Doctor, The Devil and My Dad.” Onstage Atlanta, too, has never hesitated to do unorthodox plays. Besides the just-opened Topher Payne remount of “Perfect Arrangement,” out director Cathe Hall Payne will be staging the comedic “The Sugar Bean Sisters” in October.

Great theater also seems to be headed to Roswell and Dunwoody. Gay director David Crowe’s drama “The Elephant Man” opens at Georgia Ensemble Theatre soon, while Robert Egizio’s Stage Door Players has a humdinger in the drama “Rabbit Hole,” which—on Broadway—earned bisexual actress Cynthia Nixon a Tony Award as a mother grieving her son’s death.

That’s the tip of the iceberg—check individual websites for all productions.

“THE DOCTOR, THE DEVIL AND MY DAD” 7 Stages 1105 Euclid Avenue N.E., Atlanta, GA 30307 Oct. 2 - 26 www.7stages.org “THE SUGAR BEAN SISTERS” Onstage Atlanta 2969 East Ponce de Leon Ave., Decatur, GA 30030 Oct. 17 – Nov. 8 www.onstageatlanta.com “STEEL MAGNOLIAS” Alliance Theatre 1280 Peachtree St. NE, Atlanta, GA 30309 Oct. 22 – Nov. 9 www.alliancetheatre.org “THE ELEPHANT MAN” Georgia Ensemble Theatre Roswell Cultural Arts Center, 950 Forrest St., Roswell, GA 30075 Oct. 30 – Nov. 16 www.get.org

27

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GA VOICE

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FILM JIM FARMER

Gay love drama on big screen in

‘Love Is Strange’ Also: Our top six picks for fall films Ira Sachs has been around for a while, making movies such as the gay-themed “The Delta,” but his 2012 award-winning film “Keep the Lights On” thrust the gay director squarely onto the A-list of great filmmakers.

Sachs has returned with his most mainstream film to date, “Love Is Strange,” opening Sept. 12 in Atlanta.

A hit at Sundance earlier this year, “Love Is Strange,” a Sony Pictures Classic release, looks at the topical issue of same-sex marriage. John Lithgow and Alfred Molina portray Ben and George, an elderly, long-term couple in Manhattan who, as the movie opens, get married in a lavish ceremony after almost 40 years together.

What should be the happiest moment of their shared life grows dark, however. George is a music teacher at a Catholic school, and when word of his marriage finds its way to the archdiocese, he is fired immediately.

The couple are forced, without the money George was bringing in, to sell their apartment and temporarily move in with family and friends. Ben, an artist, moves in with his nephew Elliot (Darren Burrows) and his wife Kate (Marisa Tomei), a novelist, in Brooklyn, while George takes a room with his gay cop friends Ted (Cheyenne Jackson) and Roberto (Manny Perez) downstairs. What seems a temporary arrangement lasts longer than envisioned, as they deal with trying to find a new place to live.

The films of Sachs are not for everyone.

Like “Keep the Lights On,” also about a gay couple’s relationship, “Love is Strange” is an easier film to respect than it is to warm up to. It can be cold and distant and, frankly, a little arch.

Sachs’ movies lean more heavily on characters than on overt plot, yet one of the disappointments here is that Ben and George’s situation becomes almost a subplot in their own movie. “Love is Strange” has a few too many characters in its supporting cast, including Elliot and Kate’s young son Joey (Charlie Tahan), who has begun hanging out with Vlad (Eric Tabach), another kid from high school who is older and potentially a bad influence. Their scenes add little to the movie and

The Skeleton Twins

FALL FILMS TO WATCH This fall offers plenty of mainstream movies to tap the tastes of all cinephiles, but to get your LGBT flick fix watch for the Out On Film fest Oct. Oct. 2-9. For more information, visit www.outonfilm.org and visit www.thegavoice.com for ongoing coverage.

Top fall films picks: n ‘The Skeleton Twins’ — Sept. 12

This dark comedy featuring Bill Hader as the gay twin brother of Kristin Wiig promises to be heartfelt as the “Saturday Night Live” alums bring their TV chemistry to the big screen. n ‘This Is Where I Leave You’ — Sept. 19

The cast itself puts this on the mustwatch list: Jane Fonda, Tina Fey, Jason Bateman, Adam Driver, Timothy Olyphant, Rose Byrne. Just wow. n ‘Gone Girl’ — Oct. 3

One of the most anticipated films of the year, especially for the millions who read the engrossing best-seller this movie is based on.

There may be a different ending than the book, too. Directed by director extraordinaire David Fincher and starring Ben Affleck, Neil Patrick Harris and Atlanta resident Tyler Perry.

John Lithgow and Alfred Molina portray Ben and George, an elderly, long-term couple who marry after 40 years together.

(Photo by Sony Pictures Classics)

DETAILS ‘Love is Strange’ Opens Sept. 12 Landmark Midtown Art Cinema and Phipps Plaza

could easily have been left out. Also, “Love is Strange” ends with bizarrely little resolution.

Written by Sachs and Mauricio Zacharias, the film is filled with names, but Tomei and Jackson have roles that are thinly written. What keeps the movie interesting are the two leads, whose bond is palpable and often heart-breaking.

George and Ben feel like dinosaurs and their plight, late in life, is sad and real. “Love is Strange” is filled with great small moments—George in a house full of younger folks, feeling out of place, and running out to find Ben; Ben, trying to relax in a bunk bed, realizing he is in the way of another family. Lithgow and Molina are very compelling, together and separately; especially Molina,

truly one of the underrated performers of his generation.

While the script he’s working with isn’t groundbreaking or always even smooth, Sachs, as a director, gives the central couple dignity without saccharine and sentiment.

That he doesn’t want to turn this into a tearjerker is commendable.

The film has been the center of controversy of late over the recent decision by the MPAA to give it an R rating, despite its having no nudity, sex or violence. This is the second gay-themed film of 2014 to receive an R rating, after “G.B.F.” last winter, and it’s clear—sadly—that the MPAA regards anything gay as being for restricted audiences only.

On the heels of a summer season filled with disappointing fare and superheroes galore, “Love is Strange” comes as a relief: a refreshing, intelligent film for adults.

It doesn’t live up to its massive hype, but thanks to Lithgow and Molina, it’s a moving, often triumphant work.

n ‘Fury’ — Oct. 17

A Sherman tank crew takes on the Nazis behind enemy lines in this war movie starring Brad Pitt and bad boy Shia LaBeouf. Directed

by David Ayer, writer of the 2001 hit “Training Day” starring Denzel Washington. n ‘Interstellar’ — Nov. 7

Everyone wants to see this movie about a group of adventurers who take to the stars to try to save humankind. Starring “Dallas Buyers Club” Oscar-winner Matthew McConaughey, Anne Hathaway and Jessica Chastain. Directed by the always stellar Christopher Nolan. n ‘The Hunger Games: Mockingjay —

Part 1’ — Nov. 21

The third instalment of the popular “Hunger Games” film adaptations of the books by Suzanne Collins includes the late Philip Seymour Hoffman, who will also be in the second ‘Mockingjay’ movie.

Jennifer Lawrence leads the A-list cast that also includes Woody Harrelson, Donald Sutherland, Stanley Tucci and hunky gay ally Josh Hutcherson.

— Dyana Bagby

29

GA VOICE | 30

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

09.12.14

www.theGAVoice.com

Eating my words BY CLIFF BOSTOCK

Having fun being a Jetson on Buford Highway

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SEPTEMBER 6 - OCTOBER 5, 2014

Tickets $26-$45 | actors-express.com | 404.875.1606

Once upon a time, according to internet gossip, there was a kitschy, fun burger joint on Buford Highway called Oogleblook. It was opened by the Morrison’s Cafeteria people in the late 1960s, along with one on Pharr Road. Both closed in the 1970s, but the circular buildings, reportedly inspired by “The Jetsons,” have been home to numerous tenants ever since. The one on Buford Highway has housed Chinese restaurants over the years, the most recent being 1968 at Café 101 (5412 Buford Highway, 770-458-8399).

The “1968” refers to the year the current chef started his career, while “Café 101” was the name of the previous restaurant at that location. Confused? Welcome to Buford Highway, where ethnic restaurants probably number well over 100. The specialty at Café 101 is Szechuan cuisine, but there are plenty of dishes from other regions.

Friends and I visited 101 on a recent Friday night. Its famous huge wall still displays hundreds of decoupaged images of beautiful people, but they are looking aged by the wall’s yellowing. Multilevel booths ring the round space and, weirdly, all the customers during our visit were white.

Unfortunately, the food does doesn’t really measure up to Szechuan faves like Gu‘s Bistro, Little Szechuan, and Chong Qing Hot Pot. But it’s great fun to be a Jetson in a Chinese restaurant with the most engagingly sassy server I’ve encountered in many years. Of course, like nearly every server in every authentic Asian restaurant on Buford Highway, she kept directing our attention to dishes that she obviously thought were compatible with the bland Atlanta palate. It is true that I’m not crazy about offal—spicy intestines and kidneys, for example—but I do like super-hot food.

My plate of cumin lamb—another of Peter Chang’s specialties—tasted good enough, but lacked his ferocious heat. Also, cumin is a tricky spice. In moderation, it just tastes like cumin, not my favorite smelly spice. But cranked up with unthinkable quantity, it takes on incredible depth of flavor.

Tangerine chicken hit the spot. The tangerine skins were cooked until leathery, but they exuded their entire fruity flavor.

Basil chicken was probably the best dish on the table. We saw no leaves, but their flavor suffused the dish. All the entrees were in a heavy brown sauce. I like brown sauces in moderation and, fortunately, a couple of small plates—vegetable dumplings and a

1968 at Café 101 on Buford Highway offers tasty Chinese dishes within a building reportedly inspired by ‘The Jetsons.’ (Photo via Facebook)

classic scallion pancake—provided some relief from the heaviness. Adding a drizzle of hot chili oil helped break up the oily flavors.

The portions are huge and a single appetizer could fill anyone. In other words, be judicious in placing your order.

THE PIG AND THE PEARL OPENS

The much-anticipated The Pig and the Pearl (1380 Atlantic Ave., 404-541-0930) in Atlantic Station opened recently. This is the second restaurant of Cindy Shera and Todd Martin, who operate the Shed at Glenwood.

As the name suggests, this restaurant features a raw bar and pork barbecue, mainly smoked. Heading the kitchen here and at the Shed is the immensely talented Todd Richards, who has a gift for riffing on Southern cuisine, providing surprises here and there. He owned Rolling Bones, a ‘cue spot in the Old Fourth Ward, for a while, so you may have already sampled his take on this inevitably controversial Southern favorite.

The raw bar—expensive, like the highquality seafood you find anywhere these days —is spectacular. Pedigreed oysters, shrimp and sashimi dishes—chopped and combined with other ingredients or served as glistening chunks—remind you that all is not tilapia.

Fish really do melt in your mouth, while imparting a sensory presence of the ocean.

The pork barbecue, smoked out back, is all rubbed with pretty subtle spices. Ever since my years in Houston, I’ve been a fan of brisket, but I have to say the texture of Richards’ brisket, which I’ve tried twice, is pretty irregular.

My first sampling was hugely fatty but nonetheless kind of dry for my taste. On a second visit I tried an open-faced sandwich of pimento cheese topped with more very dry cubes of brisket. So, for the time being, I’d stick to the smoky, tender pork ‘cue, chicken or fish.

Cliff Bostock, PhD, is a longtime Atlanta food critic and former therapist who now works as a collaborative life coach.

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Based on the motion picture, Bull Durham is a pitch perfect blend of comedy, baseball, and steamy romance.

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The first 100 fans to show their Bull Durham ticket will receive a complimentary Durham Bulls hat or t-shirt.* Visit alliancetheatre.org/bulldurham for more details. *While supplies last, giveaways are not guaranteed. Giveaway will take place 1 hour prior to curtain. Valid for same night ticket only.

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Book by Ron Shelton Music & Lyrics by Susan Werner Directed by Kip Fagan Based on the Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer motion picture written and directed by Ron Shelton

Series on the Alliance Stage

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FRIDAY-SUNDAY, SEPT. 12-14

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Bring the little ones to “Sesame Street Live” at the Fox Theatre, various performance times, www.foxtheatre.org

FRIDAY, SEPT. 12

The acclaimed “Love is Strange” with John Lithgow and Alfred Molina as lovers opens at the Midtown Art Cinema and Phipps Plaza. See story on page 29.

FRIDAY, SEPT. 12 The Ready for Hope weekend of parties to raise money for AID Atlanta begins with the Weigh In opening party at Heretic with DJ Luis Perez, from 10 p.m. – 3 a.m., www.hereticatlanta.com

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The Other Show—Stride Into Pride and Bachelor Auction is a fundraiser for Atlanta Pride. The drag troupe will be raising funds by pairing handsome men and one extra queen with night on the town packages courtesy of 10th and Piedmont, G’s, HobNob, Campagnolo, Henry’s, the Barrelhouse, and the Museum of Design Atlanta. Guests can bid on the men and enjoy the packages on a date night.

9:30 p.m., Jungle, www.jungleatl.com The Shout Show is a monthly showcase of LGBT artists—musicians, poets and filmmakers—at the Rush Center Annex, 7 – 9 p.m., www.rushcenteratl.org Topher Payne’s “Perfect Arrangement” opens at Onstage Atlanta at 8 p.m., courtesy of Process Theatre, running through Oct. 4, www.onstageatlanta.com

WEDNESDAY, SEPT. 17

Blake’s hosts Glitter Bomb, 75 minutes of high-energy illusion, at 11 p.m., www.blakesontheparkatlanta.com

Join the Atlanta Braves for the fourth annual ‘Out in the Stands’ event and meet former player and current Major League Baseball Ambassador for Inclusion Billy Bean. Each ticket includes a game ticket and benefits Lost-N-Found, 5 p.m., atlantapride.org/event/ stands-benefitting-lost-n-found-youth Photo via Facebook

WEDNESDAY, SEPT. 17 Lily Allen comes to the Tabernacle with special guest Mr. Little Jeans, 8 p.m., www.tabernacleatl.com

The M4M Hardbody Revue, emceed by Envy Van Michaels, is a competition for men with a $100 cash prize weekly, LeBUZZ, www.thenewlebuzz.com

SATURDAY, SEPT. 13

Xion hosts DJ Karlitos as part of Ready for Hope weekend, with funds going to AID Atlanta AIDS Walk, 3 a.m., www.xionatlanta.com The 2014 Savannah Pride Festival kicks off today at Forsyth Park, www.savannahpride.org Want to make a difference in the lives of homeless or at-risk LGBTQ youth in Atlanta? Come to the Lost-n-Found Volunteer Training, from 2 – 4 p.m., the Lost-n-Found Youth Center, 2585 Chantilly Drive NE, www.lost-n-found.org The rescheduled Marietta Pride, now in its fifth year, begins today at 5 p.m. for a two-month celebration with a superstar drag show, LeBUZZ, www.rainbowgeorgia.org “Let’s Make a Deal,” emceed by Ken, rounds up

SATURDAY, SEPT. 13

The Ready for Hope weekend Main Event to raise funds for AID Atlanta features DJ Wayne G at 10:30 p.m. at Jungle following Ruby Redd Light’s District at 9 p.m., www.jungleatl.com

SOMETHING GAY EVERY DAY!

Bookmark www.thegavoice.com to get your daily dose of local LGBT events. contestants tonight at Friends on Ponce, 6 – 10 p.m., www.friendsonponce-atl.com

open at 12:15 p.m. with a 1:30 p.m. program, Lips Atlanta, www.lipsatl.com

Game on! The world premiere of “Bull Durham” has its opening night at the Alliance Theatre, 8 p.m., www.alliancetheatre.org

The Atlanta Faemily Potluck—September Edition = Embraced by the Woods begins today at 3 p.m. at a Roswell location, www.facebook.com/groups/ AtlantaRadicalFaeries

Expect hairy men galore at Southern Bears Bar Night, 10 p.m. at Atlanta Eagle, www.atlantaeagle.com

SUNDAY, SEPT. 14

The TKO-Ready For Hope closing party with DJ Duo Travis and Eric begins at 6 p.m. at Bckspce, with an announcement of money raised during the weekend, www.jungleatl.com

The Sisters of Sequins hosted by Bubba D. Licious and Justice Counce offers up drag extravaganza, laughs and a Gospel brunch special. Doors

Angelica D’Paige and friends—including Brent Star and Destiny Brooks—purr up fun at Sex Kitten, with $5 burgers and Smirnoff cocktails, 8 p.m. at 10th and Piedmont, www.communitashospitality. com/10th-and- piedmont/promotions/ Sex-Kitten-with-Angelica-DPaige

The Extra Round party with DJ Ovahness is part of the Ready for Hope Weekend, 3 p.m., Xion, www.cariocaproductions.com

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MONDAY, SEPT. 15

Trans and Friends: a Project of the Feminist Outlawz is a youth focused group for trans*people, people questioning their own gender, and aspiring allies. This is a project of the Feminist Outlawz, cosponsored by Charis Circle’s Strong Families, Whole Children Program. There is no suggested donation for youth participants in this program but adults and allies may make a donation in support by clicking here. 7 – 8:30 p.m., Charis Books, www.charisbooksandmore.com

TUESDAY, SEPT. 16

The Atlanta Zine Library, Atlanta Zine Fest, and Charis are partnering to form a zinester writer’s group geared at 11-19 year olds. The kickoff meeting is tonight. Zine content is the focus of this group. Each month will highlight a specific aspect of zine culture, including perzines (personal zines), feminism and queer politics, and music fanzines. This is a Charis Circle Whole Children, Strong Families Program. The suggested donation is $5 but no one will be turned away. 5 – 6:30 p.m., Charis Books, www.charisbooksandmore.com Cockpit Atlanta is the home for YouTubesday ‘90s mix with VJ Ayem, www.facebook.com/cockpit.atlanta

WEDNESDAY, SEPT. 17

Enjoy dinner and drinks from 6 – 9 p.m. at Agave Restaurant in Cabbagetown in support of GLAAD. Dine Out for GLAAD is hosted by the GLAAD Atlanta Leadership Council with the restaurant donating 20 percent of food and beverage purchases to the cause, www.agaverestaurant.com An Evening of Celebration for Trevor invites people interested in what the Trevor Project is doing and its work in Georgia. 6-8 p.m., tickets available at www.thetrevorproject.org

SAGE Atlanta opens it doors for its social hour with games and conversation from 10 to 11 a.m., Phillip Rush Center, www.rushcenteratl.com

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Every Thursday is 3 Legged Cowboy Night with free dance lessons from 8-9 p.m. at the Heretic, www.hereticatlanta.com Phoenix of RuPaul’s Drag Race brings her sass to her Dancefloor Divas show, 11:30 p.m., Burkhart’s, www.burkharts.com

FRIDAY, SEPT. 19

Garth Brooks makes one of seven appearances at Philips Arena along with Trisha Yearwood over the next week, 6:30 and 10:30 p.m. tonight, www.philipsarena.com

WEDNESDAY, SEPT. 17

Erasure returns to Atlanta with special guest Nina for a concert for their latest album, “The Violet Flame.” 8 p.m., Atlanta Symphony Hall, www.atlantasymphony.org

The Third Friday Film Series presents the Oscar-nominated “Dirty Wars,” which follows investigative reporter Jeremy Scahil into the hidden world of America’s covert wars, from Afghanistan to Yemen, Somalia and beyond.

7 p.m., First Existential Congregation, www.firstexistentialist.org

Traxx Girls night at My Sister’s Room offers drink specials, great music and lots of beautiful women, 10 p.m., www.mysistersroom.com

“You in danger, girl!” Oscar winner Whoopi Goldberg brings her stand-up to the Cobb Energy Centre, 8 p.m., www.cobbenergycentre.org

It’s Mr/Ms Atlanta Eagle Bar Night w/ DJ Ron Pullman at 10 p.m. at the Atlanta Eagle, www.atlantaeagle.com

Come have a drink and a great time at MSR’s Stride Into Pride Night, 8 – 11 p.m., My Sister’s Room, www.mysistersroom.com

Film Love presents Cinema 16, May 1950, revisiting a radical midcentury American film society, curated by Andy Ditzler, 7 p.m., Atlanta Contemporary Art Center, www.thecontemporary.org

SATURDAY, SEPT. 20

Glenn Phillips Band and Anne-Marie Perry rock out with Cindy Wilson of The B-52s, 8 p.m., Red Clay Theatre, www.eddieowenpresents.com

Edie Cheezburger and her usual assortment of special guests present “The Other Show” drag event weekly at Jungle, with a first-ever dating auction to raise money for Atlanta Pride, 9:30 p.m., www.jungleatl.com Publicity photo

THURSDAY, SEPT. 18

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Charis and Cliterati pair up to present an inviting and fierce open mic & reading series on the third Thursday of every month. Hosted by the anarchic spoken word team of Karen G and Theresa Davis, members of the Art Amok Slam Team, this series cultivates the voices of authors, novices and an assortment of poets, songstresses and storytellers.

This month’s featured performer is poet Mariana McDonald. This is a From Margin to Center Literary Program; suggested donation is $5, 7:30 – 9 p.m., Charis Books, www.charisbooksandmore.com

Penny Mickelbury returns to Atlanta with her new novel “Belle City.” Spanning nearly a century, “Belle City” is an expansive, introspective, intergenerational saga of love and loss told from the disparate perspectives of an interracial couple struggling to survive as their descendants attempt to understand the legacy of this starcrossed pair. This is a Georgia Center for the Book Event, free and open to the public. 7:15 – 9 p.m., Charis Books, www.charisbooksandmore.com “Family Feud” and “Match Game” are two of the features of The Big Gay Game Show, a fundraiser for Lost-n-Found Youth, 7:30 p.m., Jungle, www.jungleatl.com

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$2 well drinks are on tap all day and night at Sunday Funday at Bulldogs, 893 Peachtree St., Atlanta, GA 30309

09.12.14

FRIDAY, SEPT. 19

Amy Ray of the Indigo Girls with special guest Sean Rowe performs at Red Clay Theatre, 8 p.m., www.eddieowenpresents.com

Financial Advisor Douglas Roberts presents a Preventing Identity Theft seminar this morning at 11 a.m., Phillip Rush Center, www.rushcenteratl.com Meak Productions, Inc. via History of Black Gay Atlanta, in partnership with MoJAM Entertainment, presents the 10th anniversary celebration reception for filmmaker Maurice Jamal, featuring a special VIP brunch and a trailer screening of Jamal’s new series, 11 a.m. – 11 p.m., Atlanta Hyatt, atlantamidtown.hyatt.com/en/hotel/home.html The fifth annual South Georgia Pride Festival is back at John W. Saunders Park in Valdosta, Ga. Live music and entertainment and a vendor market make up the annual fest. Noon to 7 p.m., www.southgapride.com Stop by Charis for a special meet and greet and book signing with local author Sophia Moon, whose “Journey to the Land of Angels” tells the poignant and sometimes tragic true story of a young woman, newly graduated from college, who moves to a city three thousand miles away to find out who she is, 1 – 2 p.m., Charis Books, www.charisbooksandmore.com Songwriter Susan Werner, fresh off her work on “Bull Durham,” plays Eddie’s Attic at 7 p.m., www.eddiesattic.com

Journey back to Paris circa 1870 and enjoy the “Music of the Night” as part of the Red Dress Party. This masquerade benefits Positive Impact/ Mister Center. The music will be compliments of Novice Guard Stitch Le Boom Boom (aka DJ Freeballin’) and entertainment will include Norwood and moody atmosphere compliments of All About Props. Admission is $10 wearing red and $15 without. 9 p.m. – 1 a.m., Amsterdam Atlanta, www.amsterdamatlanta.com H2Hoe4, the 4th Annual Pool Party at Wetbar at The W Downtown is tonight. Admission is free before 11 p.m. with RSVP, $10 after 11 p.m. w/ RSVP and $15 after 11 p.m. w/ no RSVP, www.watlantadowntown.com Synergy with Monica Van Pelt promises lots of rowdy fun, 11 p.m., Burkhart’s, www.burkharts.com

SUNDAY, SEPT. 21

Chris Isaak brings his mellow sounds to the Atlanta Botanical Garden, 7:30 p.m., www.atlantabotanicalgarden.org

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BEST BETS

09.12.14

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BEST BETS

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MONDAY, SEPT. 22

The Stars of the Century drag show is every Monday at Jungle, 10 p.m., tinyurl.com/matzdvf Out On Film hosts a pre-festival screening of the documentary “The Dog”—about the real-life figure behind the film “Dog Day Afternoon”— at 7 p.m. at the Phillip Rush Center, www.outonfilm.org “Dancing Queen,” “The Winner Takes it All” and more beloved pop songs are part of the Broadway Series national tour of “Mamma Mia!” 7:30 p.m., Fox Theatre, www.foxtheatre.org

WEDNESDAY, SEPT. 24

Get your bingo on tonight at Joe’s on Juniper at 8 p.m., www.joesonjuniper.com

THURSDAY, SEPT. 25

Meak Productions is proud to present the second annual GLBT Career Fair & Technology Center Expo at the Hyatt Atlanta Midtown from 10 a.m. -

Muslim?” This is a Charis Circle From Margin to Center Literary Event. The suggested donation is $5, but no one will be turned away, 7:30 – 9 p.m., Charis Books, www.charisbooksandmore.com

Stuff! The parade is sponsored by Mary’s and Pocket Rocket Guide, with the Atlanta Talons serving up Jell-O shots following the parade behind Mary’s.

2 p.m., Glenwood and Flat Shoals, Atlanta, 30316

Decadence: A Night of Drinking and Debauchery is every Thursday starting at 10 p.m., hosted by Adam Bland and Ashley Mitchell with beats by DJ Daryl Cox. A wet underwear contest begins at 11 p.m., with a cash prize and dancers galore, TEN Atlanta, www.tenatlanta.com

Brush off your top hat and shine your shoes for the 2014 Actor’s Express gala, Broadway on the Westside! Headlining are The Skivvies, an awardwinning duo from NYC who play stripped down music while stripped down to their skivvies. The host for the evening will be actress Jasmine Guy, who will be joined by special guests including WABE’s John Lemley. The evening will also include a delicious meal, an open bar, and live and silent auctions. All of the funds raised will go to supporting the artists of the 27th season at Actor’s Express, 6:30 p.m., Westside Cultural Arts Center, www.westsideartscenter.com

UPCOMING

TUESDAY, SEPT. 23

SUNDAY, SEPT. 21

Chris Isaak brings his mellow sounds to the Atlanta Botanical Garden, 7:30 p.m., www. atlantabotanicalgarden.org 4 pm with a happy hour and networking block from 4 – 8 p.m., atlantamidtown.hyatt.com/en/hotel/ home.html Community activist Samia Abdullah and Charis invite all people from Metro Atlanta Muslim American communities and interested allies to join in a public reading and discussion led by Dr. Abdullahi A. An-Naim about his book “What is an American

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FRIDAY, SEPT. 26

The highly-anticipated “Lasso of Truth,” about the origin of Wonder Woman, opens tonight courtesy of Synchronicity Theatre, 8 p.m., www.synchrotheatre.com

SATURDAY, SEPT. 27

The NOH8 Open Photo Shoot and Open House presented by HRC begins at noon at Jungle. Wear white. Solo photos are $40 and group shots are $25 per person, 12 – 3 p.m., www.jungleatl.com The East Atlanta Strut Parade features celebrities, floats, kids, motorcycles, scooters, classic cars, marching bands, senior citizens and campy drag queens. This year’s theme is Drag On and Strut Your

THURSDAY, OCT. 2

The 27th annual Out On Film annual LGBT film festival opens at the Midtown Art Cinema, 7:15 p.m., www.outonfilm.org

FRIDAY, OCT. 3

The new Cirque du Soleil show, Amaluna, opens tonight at 7:30 p.m. at the Fox Theatre, www.foxtheatre.org

FRIDAY, OCT. 10

The Aquarium Party kicks off Atlanta Pride weekend, 7 p.m., www.atlantapride.org

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09.12.14

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

Black Gay Pride brings tens of thousands to ATL

Atlanta’s annual Black Gay Pride event brought tens of thousands of people from around the globe to the city over Labor Day weekend to celebrate in the clubs, at parties and also in Piedmont Park for the third annual Pure Heat Community Heat Festival. At this year’s Pure Heat Community Fest, sponsored by Traxx Girls and the Vision Community Foundation, singer Faith Evans received the organization’s Humanitarian Award from Bishop O.C. Allen and his partner, Rashad Burgess. She also sang a couple songs to the packed crowd. (Photos by Dyana Bagby)

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ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

Dragon Con

delights in the ATL Cosplay, star power, workshops, seminars, a parade, and parties galore made the annual Dragon Con in Atlanta over Labor Day weekend a fantasy come true for thousands of sci-fi, fantasy, gaming, comic, film fans and their admirers. The weekend-long conference includes plenty of LGBT fare, including the popular Spectrum Party (formerly known as the Rainbow Flag Party) where LGBT trekkies and more and allies dance the night away. (Photos by Kenneth Hatchett)

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09.12.14

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THAT'S WHAT SHE SAID Dragon Con disappointment No magic found in LGBT fantasy panel Another summer completed, another Dragon Con badge in my collection. I attend the geek event every year, not only to admire the costumes but also to check out all the programming the convention has to offer. This year there was a panel about LGBT characters in fantasy literature. Thinking I would get some good suggestions of novels that included medieval lesbian heroes I could check out, I had my pen and paper ready to list them all. However, the discussion turned into a therapy session, and this well-adjusted gay kid was ready to walk out.

Its title was “We’re Here, We’re Queer, and We’re Magic.” Snap that wand, this sounded fabulous. The description read “A discussion of the LGBT perspective in fantasy and speculative fiction over time.” The panelists were not listed, but I looked forward to what I thought would be an intelligent description of our fictional brethren over the many decades of publishing. I arrived at the room and found a long line waiting at the door. I was so proud that so many people wanted to be part of an LGBT experience like this that I texted my girlfriend Katie Jo: How far we’ve come.

Once we were allowed in the room, I didn’t recognize the panelists. As the man and woman introduced themselves I began to gather that they were not well-known authors, if authors at all, but members of literature groups from other parts of the country. The reason I had a hard time understanding what they did professionally was because they decided to spend most of their time talking about their LGBT perspective, instead of their literary perspective.

And theirs was not a positive message.

The man gravely informed us he came from a small, conservative, and very religious background. He then began to share the sad state of affairs that his upbringing brought him to. He felt the need to confirm, then reconfirm, that he didn’t have (and never had

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.

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thankyouverymuch) an attraction to women.

No offense women, but he’s a seven on the Kinsey scale. No offense taken, mister, now can you list some novels I should read?

By now audience members were raising their hands trying to suggest authors for everyone to check out, but the straight moderator shut them down, apparently thinking we needed to hear the panelist’s introspection. It was obviously the first time the moderator had been exposed to the idea that gay kids have it tough.

The female panelist was even worse about oversharing than her male counterpart. She too came from a conservative religious past, and asked us by a show of hands who else had been part of a small town. I raised my hand as I rolled my eyes, and began wishing I could slip out unnoticed. If I had, I’d have missed her sexual transformation before our very eyes.

Even though at the beginning of the conversation she identified herself as a lesbian, by the end of the hour she said she was really bisexual and felt the need to let us know she is still not out to her family. I creased my brow. What does this have to do with Hogwarts?

And then for some reason Robin Williams and his recent suicide was brought up. Mr. Williams wasn’t even gay! That was followed by the panelists’ message not to commit suicide, and if we need help like Robin did, to please reach out to someone, because we’re not alone. That’s when I put the cap back on my pen, knowing this was going nowhere.

I was insulted that they wasted the opportunity of an engaged LGBT and straight audience by comparing notes on who’s the biggest victim in life. This sad pair should have promoted powerful gay fictional characters as instructed, giving those who are struggling in our community an idea of who they want to be, not a reminder of where they came from.

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09.12.14

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SOMETIMES'Y' Sunday in the Park

Basking in the beauty and potential of Black Gay Pride

“Pride seems to be less beautiful this year,” I cattily said to my friend as we watched the endless stream of people flowing through Piedmont Park on the Sunday of Labor Day weekend. “I know that sounds awful, but there doesn’t seem to be as many people who make you go ‘Wow,’ as usual.”

“No, you’re right,” my friend said. “You have to give it a couple of hours. All of the beautiful people are still recovering from last night.”

While my shallow side bemoaned the lack of devastatingly attractive people in the afternoon crowd, Piedmont Park was still a dazzling sight.

Long before Black Gay Pride became an official occasion, African-American LGBT folks flocked to Piedmont Park on the Sunday of Labor Day weekend. Often mistaken for a segregated splinter movement, today’s Black Gay Pride is in reality the formalization of a celebratory gathering that has occurred for decades. It is a tradition that evolved not from, but alongside, the more recognized Atlanta Gay Pride festival.

Sunday in the park became an institution without any organizing or promotion—just organic fellowship among thousands of people who were hungry to connect with those similar to themselves, eager for a few hours of feeling mainstream amid the daily labor of being a double minority.

Due to the inspiring legwork of leaders like Avian Watson, Mel Scott and Traxx Girls, the once aimless Sunday gathering in Piedmont Park now features vendors, informational booths for community organizations, and a stage graced by battling J-Sette troupes and R&B divas like Brandy and Faith Evans.

Still, the best entertainment during Sunday in the park is the people watching. Aside from the two groups already mentioned—the exceptionally gorgeous and the many more who create the aura of normality—there is more audacious expression among black gay men than among any other demographic.

Objectively ridiculous outfits are plentiful, and worn without a hint of insecurity or concern. My instinctive scoffs at clothing

Ryan Lee is an Atlanta writer.

that had the same absurdity as a designer fashion show were quickly muted by an admiration for those fearless enough to make the world their runway.

The most jolting ensembles are usually worn by the J-Setters, groups of young men who dance in a flamboyant, lead-and-mimic style. One crew pranced through the park in bikini trunks, while another troupe’s outfits almost certainly violated the trademark of the Dallas Cowboys cheerleaders.

J-Setters can be maligned in a culture fixated on masculinity, but their unique artistry, and the heart on display as the groups compete against each other, underscore why the black LGBT experience ought to be celebrated.

Although many outsiders misrepresent Black Gay Pride as exclusionary, my most uplifting observation at this year’s Pure Heat Community Festival didn’t involve anyone in the target demographic.

After parting from my friends, I was about to exit the park when I briefly intersected with a black man and woman. They had made a date for an evening stroll through the park, but the man wanted to cancel after discovering who else was strolling through the park.

“Baby, can we please come back another time?” I heard the man plead.

“No,” the woman said emphatically. “We said we were going to walk in the park, now let’s walk.”

After a few seconds, I looked back and saw that instead of retreating to the path from which they entered the park, they were continuing in the direction of the main stage.

I smiled, thinking about the awakening that awaited their eyes. They would see the J-Setters, and the muscle queens, and the LGBT moms and dads with their kids.

They would likely see their neighbor or coworker, or maybe someone who reminded them of their sister or uncle, and they would surely say, “Wow.”

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