The Georgia Voice - 10/11/13, Vol. 4 Issue 16 by Georgia Voice

ATLANTA

2013

All You Need to Know to Go: SPecial Pride Pullout

TALES FROM JAIL Meet Pride Grand Marshal Lupe Valdez. Page 16

STILL WOWING US Pop diva Taylor Dayne headlines Atlanta Pride. Page 42

COUNTRY & GAY All-American crooner Steve Grand speaks to GA Voice . Page 47

10.11.13

THE GEORGIA VOICE

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EDITORIAL

Editor: David Aaron Moore dmoore@thegavoice.com

IN THIS ISSUE

NEWS

FEATURED STORY

Deputy Editor: Dyana Bagby dbagby@thegavoice.com Art Director: Mike Ritter mritter@thegavoice.com

CONTRIBUTORS

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Melissa Carter, Jim Farmer, Shannon Hames, Topher Payne, Matt Schafer, Steve Warren, Ryan Lee

BUSINESS

Publisher: Tim Boyd tboyd@thegavoice.com Managing Partner: Christina Cash ccash@thegavoice.com

8 | LGBT GROUPS MAKE ENDORSEMENTS FOR FALL ELECTIONS

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FINE PRINT

All material in the Georgia Voice is protected by federal copyright law and may not be reproduced without the written consent of the Georgia Voice. The sexual orientation of advertisers, photographers, writers and cartoonists published herein is neither inferred nor implied. The appearance of names or pictorial representation does not necessarily indicate the sexual orientation of that person or persons. We also do not accept responsibility for claims made by advertisers. Unsolicited editorial material is accepted by the Georgia Voice, but we do not take responsibility for its return. The editors reserve the right to accept, reject or edit any submission. Guidelines for freelance contributors are available upon request. A single copy of the Georgia 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 Georgia Voice, PO Box 77401, Atlanta, GA 30357. The Georgia Voice is published every other Friday by The Georgia Voice, LLC. Individual subscriptions are $60 per year for 26 issues. Postage paid at Atlanta, GA, and additional mailing offices. The editorial positions of the Georgia Voice are expressed in editorials and in editor’s notes. Other opinions are those of the writers and do not necessarily represent the opinion of the Georgia Voice and its staff. To submit a letter or commentary: Letters should be fewer than 400 words and commentary, for web or print, should be fewer than 750 words. Submissions may be edited for content and length, and must include a name, address and phone number for verification. Email submissions to editor@thegavoice.com or mail to the address above.

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OUTSPOKEN FRIENDS & FOES IN THEIR OWN WORDS

“Our job isn’t just to be frustrated with the homophobia coming from the Governor’s Mansion, it’s to do everything we can to ensure that his chapter in Pennsylvania’s political history is as sad and short as his record on schools, economic development and civil rights.” — Pennsylvania Rep. Brian Sims in a Facebook post responding to Pennsylvania GoCorbett’s comparrison of same sex marriage to incest. Sims was also the first openly gay football captain in NCAA history. (Oct. 4, Advocate)

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ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT 27 | Atlanta Tourist Destinations 28 | Lambda Car Club 38 | Best Bets Calendar

SPECIAL PRIDE PULLOUT 31 | Pride Schedule of Events 32 | Map of Pride 33 | Where to Party 34 | Where to Dine

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Sales Manager: Marshall Graham mgraham@thegavoice.com

PRIDE PROFILES & PREVIEWS

“We don’t always have the best audiences, but this was taking it to a new level to be sure. There were a lot of athletes there that night, so we’re trying to identify who specifically was using hate speech.” – Michael Barnett, assistant chair of theater arts at the school and also chair of the Ole Miss faculty senate, after athletes disrupted a production of “The Laramie Project,” including shouting “faggot” at actors. The play is based on the murder of Matthew Shepard, a University of Wyoming student who was killed in 1998 because he was gay. (Oct. 3, USA Today)

OPINION 57 | David Aaron Moore 57 | Mark S. King 59 | Melissa Carter 61 | Topher Payne

“I blame the administration as much as I blame the athletes. This is a graphic play and a graphic production. People need to have an idea of what they are getting themselves into.”

2013

– Brendon Ayanbadejo, former Super Bowl champion and outspoken LGBT ally, in an open letter to Ole Miss administrators regarding university football players heckling actors during a Photo by Adam Bouska production of “The Laramie Project.” (Oct. 5, Queerty)

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NEWS

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Atlanta celebrates Pride By JIM FARMER Over the years, Atlanta Pride has changed in many ways – leadership, dates – as well as the events surrounding it. Though there are scores of activities leading up to the Southeast’s largest Pride celebration, the weekend itself is still the hotbed of activity. Buck Cooke, executive director of Atlanta Pride, is hoping for large crowds again this year. “We hope to have comparable crowd sizes as last year,” says Cooke (the Pride website estimates annual attendance at 250,000). “Many of our market vendors ran out of products or collateral last year on the first day of the festival.” He would love a 2013 repeat. Cooke notes several new events for 2013. “We have partnered with Campus Pride to host the first LGBTQfriendly college fair in Atlanta,” says Cooke. “Campus Pride hosts these fairs all across the US and we are thrilled to help them bring admissions reps from LGBTQ welcoming college campuses so they can meet with families from our community. The Campus Pride College Fair, sponsored by PNC, is from 2 – 5 p.m. Saturday at the large tent near the Playground and Greystone Pool House. Atlanta Pride has also partnered with JustUsATL and offered them the use of the park’s Bandstand to host their Youth Power Space. “Over the past few weeks, we have fielded many phone calls from parents of middle school and high school students who have come out and who are bringing their newly out children to the festival,” says Cooke. The JustUsATL Youth Space goes from 10 a.m. – 7 p.m. all weekend. A military veteran taps and wreath-placing ceremony by AVER and Out Serve, also in its first year, will take place on Saturday afternoon from 5 – 5:30 p.m. at the flagpole and veterans’ marker near the 12th Street Gate. LGBT musicians on a national level are uniting for the concert “Color Our World: Life, Spirit, Magic!,” presented by MailChimp and the Atlanta Freedom Bands and featuring a few hundred LGBT musicians from across the country. It takes place at the Ferst Center for the Arts at Georgia Tech at 8 p.m. Saturday. One of the major differences this season is the addition of the VIP experience. “In addition to the VIP/Sponsor Party on Friday night, we also have our Kaiser Permanente VIP Hospitality Center in the Piedmont Park Visitors Center, which is located near the 12th Street Gate,” says Cooke. Pride Ambassadors will be on hand over the weekend to welcome guests and offer refreshments in the air conditioned facilities. A new feature is the Celebrity Cruises VIP Seating Area overlooking the Coca-Cola Stage, featur-

ing a beer garden, bistro tables, a private cash bar, private restroom facilities and great views. In terms of returning activities, the official kick-off party for Pride Weekend is Friday night at the Georgia Aquarium. According to Cooke, the party, now in its fifth year, is a perfect start. “(It’s) a fantastic way to begin the weekend because it gives our visitors from other places a chance to see one of the shining jewels in our city’s entertainment crown,” he says. It’s also a relaxing one for local attendees. Returning from 2012 is the popular YoGaga Lady Gaga-inspired yoga, presented by Tough Love Yoga and lululemon athletica. “Over 200 Little Monsters showed up (last year) and enjoyed putting their paws up and downward dog,” says Cooke. YoGaga is coming back at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday morning at the Athletic Fields as part of the bigger Community Health Expo. Expanded kids programming is on tap Saturday from 10:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m. This year sees two puppet shows from the Kaiser Permanente Educational Foundation, arts and crafts, kids yoga with Nirvana Yoga, and the Anti-Defamation League’s Read4Respect program. An element of Pride festival that can fly under the radar is the Cultural Exhibit, displayed on the bridge over Lake Clara Meer. “This is the seventh year we have featured a display with

cially good about the lineup of this year’s entertainers. “I am pretty damned excited about the talent we have lined up!,” he says. “From new artists like A Great Big World and Steve Grand to one of the most recognizable voices in music, Taylor Dayne, I think we have something for everyone. I am also thrilled to showcase Bonnie McKee as she begins her recording career. She has written hits for Katy Perry, Britney Spears, Elle Goulding, Carly Rae Jepsen, Adam Lambert, Ke$ha, Pitbull, and Kelly Clarkson. I am looking forward to see what she has in store for us when she performs on Saturday.” Grand, the out country star whose music video about his crush on a guy, “All-American Boy,” will take the Coca-Cola stage at 3:45 p.m. Saturday and Dayne will sing a slew of her hits This year it’s bigger and better: images from Atlanta Pride at 8:25 p.m. 2012 and 2011. (File photos) Later that evening will be the official Women’s Party presented by My Sister’s Room, at 7 p.m. panels about our LGBTQ The Parade – traditionally winding down history, our struggle for Peachtree Street - kicks off Sunday, beginning at equal rights, the chal1:00 p.m., with “Sordid Lives” creator Del Shores, lenges faced by LGDaniel Hernandez and Sheriff Lupe Valdez as BTQ people across the honorary grand marshals and plenty of the globe,” says local names as grand marshals. “I think our Cooke. Retrohonorees this year cover the gamut of the LGspective of past BTQ community in Atlanta and throughout the exhibits will be state,” Cooke says. “We have longtime, grassdisplayed. roots activist Lorraine Fontana; HIV and AIDS Couples blogger Mark S. King; media maven Evelyn wanting to exMims, who supported LGBTQ people before it change vows can was cool or widely accepted; behind-the-scenes do so at the Atlanta rockstar and HIV activist Charles Stephens; acaPride Commitment Cerdemic activist Christina Bucher of Berry College; emony from 11 a.m. to 12 the caretakers of the oldest feminist bookstore p.m. Saturday at the W Atlanta’s in the US, Charis Circle; and the divine divas, the Altitude. It has moved to a weekend acAtlanta Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence.” tivity to give participants a better chance to atIn addition to those being celebrated, Cooke tend. says that than 200 organizations have regisTwo marches take place on Saturday. The tered to be in the parade Trans March begins at 1:45 p.m. and then the The Southeast’s oldest drag show, the StarDyke March begins at 6 p.m., with a Queer Your light Cabaret, closes Sunday with a who’s who Gender Dance Party to follow. Sign-making of entertainers. “As usual, the sky is the limit event precedes both at the Piedmont for what our eclectic queens and Park Dock. According to Cooke, kings will bring to the Cocaboth have experienced growth Cola Stage that night,” in recent years. The Trans Cooke says. “The StarMarch attracted around light Cabaret show200 people last year and cases the absolute the Dyke March has very best of Atlanta’s grown to over 500 parvibrant drag comticipants. munity.” Of course, Atlanta After the parade, Pride wouldn’t be comthe parties are plenplete without the Ventiful around the city, dors Market. More than WWW.ATLANTAPRIDE. O RG/EVENTS but the official ClosDETAILS 200 booths will fill the ing Pride party is at park, from local busiJungle Atlanta SunAtlanta Pride Weekend nesses to nonprofits to day beginning at 9 October 11, 12 and 13 national corporations. p.m. Cooke feels espe-

EVENTS

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Ga. political groups announce endorsements OTHER STONEWALL DEMOCRATS ENDORSEMENTS:

Atlanta Mayor Kasim Reed gets nod from two out of three gay groups By DYANA BAGBY With many municipal elections taking place Nov. 5, three LGBT political groups announced their endorsements in key races in recent days based on their stances for LGBT equality. Georgia Stonewall Democrats, Georgia Equality and Georgia Log Cabin Republicans made their endorsements in several races with just weeks left before the election. Georgia Equality is endorsing two openly gay incumbents — Alex Wan of the Atlanta City Council and Brian Bates of the Doraville City Council — as well as Atlanta Mayor Kasim Reed. The group, however, opts out of backing anyone in the Atlanta City Council District 5 race in which an LGBT-friendly incumbent is being challenged by three openly gay challengers. The state’s largest LGBT advocacy organization, Georgia Equality also gives “favorable ratings” in two Atlanta Council races to the incumbents and their challengers. These favorable ratings go to Atlanta City Council Post 2 At Large incumbent Aaron Watson and also his challenger, Mary Norwood; and to Lamar Willis, Atlanta City Council Post 3 At Large incumbent, as well as his challenger, Andre Dickens. “This election cycle has been especially difﬁcult for us in other key races, due to the exceptional commitment to LGBT rights demonstrated by both incumbents and challengers,” Georgia Equality Executive Director Jeff Graham said in a prepared statement. “Therefore, after careful consideration, the board has decided to report favorably on multiple candidates in the Post 2 and Post 3 At-large races and to issue no endorsement in the contested District 5 race.” The state Supreme Court on Monday ordered Lamar Willis disbarred for taking a $30,000 settlement to be paid to a child he represented in a personal injury case and depositing the money into his own personal or business account.

GEORGIA EQUALITY ENDORSEMENTS:

 Alex Wan for Atlanta City Council District 6. Wan, who is openly gay, is seeking his second term to the council and faces two challengers, Tracey Austin and Mike Boyle. Wan successfully sponsored a resolution approved unanimously by the council to publicly support marriage equality but ran afoul of some LGBT people when he sponsored legislation to rid Cheshire Bridge Road of adult entertainment clubs. His legislation, however, was eventually defeated. Wan has also received the endorsement of

(Clockwise from top) Atlanta Mayor Kasim Reed, Alex Wan and Brian Bates are backed by Georgia Equality and Stonewall Democrats. Matt Rinker is endorsed by Georgia Log Cabin Republicans. (File photos)

the national Gay & Lesbian Victory Fund.  Atlanta Mayor Kasim Reed is vying for a second term and faces no serious opposition. Reed came out in support of same-sex marriage in December after the council passed Wan’s resolution showing its support.  Atlanta City Council President Ceasar Mitchell, who served as a council member from 2001 to 2009 before being elected as president.  Carla Smith for Atlanta City Council District 1. Smith co-sponsored the marriage equality resolution with Wan.  Brian Bates of the Doraville City Council is vying for another term in office after being the first known openly gay Republican elected to office in Georgia in 2007. He faces one challenger, Dawn O’Connor.  Clyde Mitchell, an East Point City Council member now running for the mayor’s seat. He is going up against incumbent Mayor Earnestine Pittman and two other candidates, Andrew Korta and Jannquell Peters. “With a strong and growing LGBT community in the City of East Point, it is important to have a city leader who will be actively engaged with the local LGBT community and join other leaders in the metro-Atlanta region in advocating for LGBT rights,” Graham said of Mitchell.

STONEWALL DEMS ENDORSE IN ATLANTA COUNCIL, BOARD OF EDUCATION RACES The Georgia Stonewall Democrats also announced their slate of endorsements and chose to support Andre Dickens in his challenge to incumbent Lamar Willis in the Atlanta City Council Post 3 At Large race. The race between Willis and Dickens is an especially heated one with Dickens launching a www.lamarwillisshakedown.com website where he attacks the incumbent for his “shady

dealings” including accusing Willis of creating a fake charity. Willis in turn struck back Oct. 4 with a statement to Creative Loaﬁng saying Dickens was guilty of “blatant hypocrisy.” “It is rare that organizations such as Georgia Stonewall endorse a challenger, and we do not take this endorsement lightly,” said Tim Cairl, president of the Stonewall Democrats, in a statement. “Andre is a breath of fresh air to Atlanta City Council politics. With a strong sense of integrity, a full grasp of what it means to be ethical and open in all matters both personal and public, and a genuine desire to improve the lives of everyone in our city, Andre Dickens has duly earned the endorsement of Georgia Stonewall Democrats.” The Stonewall Democrats are also backing incumbent Aaron Watson over Mary Norwood. Norwood previously held the Post 2 seat, which is elected citywide, before deciding to run for mayor four years ago. She narrowly lost to Kasim Reed in a runoff election, but won a majority of votes in District 6, home to the city’s largest concentration of gay voters. At the time, Reed did not support allowing gay couples to marry, although he has since changed his mind and now backs marriage equality. “In 2009, Stonewall Democrats endorsed Aaron Watson for city council based upon his strong support for expanded transportation and his knowledge of budgeting and ﬁnance, and Councilman Watson has not disappointed in these areas of policy,” Cairl said. “Watson was also a co-sponsor of the Marriage Equality Resolution passed by the Atlanta City Council,” he added.

 Alex Wan for Atlanta City Council District 6 “In 2009, Stonewall Democrats endorsed Alex Wan for City Council indicating he would be a strong advocate for the diverse neighborhoods in District 6. And while we do not always agree with his proposals, there is no denying that Councilman Wan is dedicated to the causes in which he believes,” Cairl said. Cairl also praised Wan for the marriage equality resolution that was signed by the mayor.  Kasim Reed for Mayor  Ceasar Mitchell for Atlanta City Council President  Michael Julian Bond for Atlanta City Council Post 1 At-Large  Carla Smith for Atlanta City Council District 1  Kwanza Hall for Atlanta City Council District 2  Felicia Moore for Atlanta City Council District 9  Keisha Lance-Bottoms for Atlanta City Council District 11  Brenda Muhammad for Atlanta Board of Education District 1  Jason Esteves for Atlanta Board of Education District 9 At-Large

GEORGIA LOG CABIN REPUBLICAN ENDORSEMENTS

In the Atlanta City Council District 5 race, LGBT ally and incumbent Natalyn Archibong faces opposition from three openly gay candidates: Christian Enterkin, Jon Jones and Matt Rinker. Rinker, a Democrat, is endorsed by the Georgia Log Cabin Republicans. “We’re proud to publicly endorse Matt Rinker for Atlanta City Council for a myriad of reasons, but primarily because Matt is a fresh new voice dedicated to making Atlanta an even better place to live and work for all of us,” said Jamie Ensley, president of the Georgia Chapter of the Log Cabin Republicans, in a statement. “Matt’s business background makes him uniquely qualiﬁed to focus on bringing more good companies to Atlanta, and we know he will be an independent, common-sense voice who will focus on making our neighborhoods safer, improve our roads and sidewalks, and improving the qualify of life across the board for all of us.”

OTHER LCR ENDORSEMENTS:

 Ceasar Mitchell for Atlanta City Council President.  Alex Wan for Atlanta City Council District 6.  Mary Norwood for Atlanta City Council Post 2 At Large. Log Cabin Republican President Jamie Ensley is Norwood’s treasurer.  Brian Bates for Doraville City Council

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Trans, Dyke Marches bring radical edge to Atlanta Pride By Dyana Bagby

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With chants and cheers, the Trans March and Dyke March at Atlanta Pride always bring a more political, edgy feel to the weekend celebration of being out and proud. This year marks the fifth year of the Trans March that started with a just a few dozen people and has grown to include some 200. The mission of the Trans March is to ensure visibility of the “T” in LGBT and takes participants through the park and marketplace where people can actually see them rather than around the outside of the park. But because of its growing size and importance, there are already plans to take it to the streets next year. Based on community feedback, the Trans March route has been expanded to cover more of the park and we will take it to the streets starting in 2014,” says Laura Barton, events manager for Atlanta Pride. Last year approximately 200 people participated in the Trans March, she says. In 1993, the first Dyke March was held, organized by activists including members of the Lesbian Avengers, as part of Atlanta Pride at Piedmont Park. There was an earlier version of the Dyke March in the mid-1980s when the Atlanta Lesbian Feminist Alliance held a Candlelight Lesbian Pride March from Candler Park to Little Five Points, according to a history recorded by Lesbian Avenger cofounder Sara Luce Look, co-owner of Charis Books & More. Atlanta Pride became the official sponsor of the Dyke March and this year the Lloyd Russell Foundation, a nonprofit organization that provides resources and funding to numerous LGBTQ causes and organizations, is an official

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The annual Dyke March, which is trans inclusive, brings together women of all kinds, and many men as well, to celebrate the diverse group of people who make up the fierce femmes, butches, elders and more in the community. (Photo by Dyana Bagby)

EVENTS DETAILS Trans March Saturday, Oct. 12  11:30 to 1 p.m. — Pre-Trans March Social and Sign-Making Party at Piedmont Park Dock (behind the Kaiser Permanente VIP Hospitality Center near 12th Street Gate)  1:15 p.m. — Begin assembling p.m. Visitor’s Center near 12th Street Gate  1:45 p.m. — Step off Dyke March Saturday, Oct. 12  3 to 5 p.m. — Pre-Dyke March Social and Sign-making Party at Piedmont Park Dock (behind the Kaiser Permanente VIP Hospitality Center near 12th Street Gate)  5:30 p.m. — Assembly begins at Charles Allen Gate  6 p.m. — Step off

supporter of both the Trans March and Dyke March. “This year Atlanta Pride took the planning process for the Dyke and Trans Marches to Charis Books & More. We felt that community input and ownership of the marches is integral to making them fulﬁlling experience for those who participate,” Barton says. “The Lloyd Russell Foundation is a supporter of Atlanta Pride and their contribution allowed us to purchase poster boards and art supplies for march-goers to decorate at the Pre-March Social and Sign Making Parties. Additionally, this funding pays for magnets, banners, a trolley for the Dyke March, and city permits,” she says. The Dyke March and Trans March attract a diverse group of people who chant and cheer messages about their communities. The Dyke March’s path starts at the park’s Charles Allen gate and travels up 10th Street and back into the park from the 14th Street entrance. Both marches are inclusive to all people who identify as dykes or trans or even simply as gay or want to march to show support and be allies to both communities.

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LGBT capital of the South By GA VOICE STAFF

the height of the AIDS crisis in the 1980s and early 1990s, as ACT UP and other HIV activists demanded more government response to the Spend a day in Atlanta and you’ll forget you disease that was decimating gay men. The ‘80s also saw Atlanta in the spotlight are vacationing in the Deep South. Dubbed “the city too busy to hate” during the Civil Rights era, as a Georgia case, Bowers vs. Hardwick, put anti-gay sodomy laws before the U.S. Supreme Atlanta continues that tradition today. Georgia’s capital is as steeped in the Civil Court. Michael Hardwick, a gay man arrested Rights Movement as it was in the Confederacy, in his own home for engaging in consensual and the city has earned its reputation as the oral sex, lost his challenge to the antiquated law in a bigoted 1986 decision that would later gay mecca of the South. Visitors to Atlanta can pay their respects be overturned by the Supreme Court’s 2003 rulat the crypt of Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. and ing in Lawrence v. Texas, which invalidated Coretta Scott King at the King Center, then trav- sodomy laws around the country. When the Cracker Barrel restaurant chain el just a few miles to tour the Margaret Mitchell House, where the author wrote her iconic Civil fired several Atlanta area workers in 1991 for not adhering to its policy that employees War novel “Gone With the Wind.” Locals and guests of all races and sexual ori- have “normal heterosexual values,” activists entations enjoy the amenities of Stone Moun- launched protests and boycotts that drew natain Park, located just east of Atlanta, where tional attention, including the Oprah Winfrey outdoor activities and a famous laser show show. The policy was finally changed in 2002. LGBT activists scored an even bigger victory take place in the shadow of the world’s largest piece of exposed granite, engraved with a mas- in the mid-1990s, earning a gold medal in activism leading up to the 1996 Summer Olympics in sive carving of Confederate leaders. Gay and straight people of all races also Atlanta. The controversy centered on Olympic turn out each year for the Atlanta Pride Festival, organizers’ decision to hold the women’s volwhich draws throngs as much for its colorful leyball competition in Cobb County, where the mix of music, food and vendors as for the state- county commission passed a resolution calling homosexuality incompatible with community ment it makes about LGBT rights. But don’t let that make you think Atlanta’s standards. Months of grassroots activism (and fear of LGBT community is apolitical. The city has been ground zero in several key gay rights battles embarrassment should protests take place durthat made headlines around the world, and to- ing the Olympics) finally led to Cobb County losday’s crop of activists are working just as hard ing out on hosting Olympic events. LGBT Atlanta continues to achieve remarkto bring Georgia’s state laws up to speed with able successes, including electing openly gay the capital city’s welcoming attitude. Atlanta’s first Gay Pride parade was held in and lesbian candidates to city, county and state 1971. The city’s gay community made national offices, and enacting domestic partner benefits headlines in 1978, when Anita Bryant — the in several jurisdictions throughout the state. To be certain, challenges and set backs rebeauty queen and orange juice spokesperson turned anti-gay crusader — came to town to main, such as the state constitutional amendment banning same-sex marriage apaddress the Southern Baptist Convention, and a massive pro-gay demproved by Georgia voters in 2004. onstration replaced the annual But strides toward equality take Pride rally. place everyday throughout Atlanta, where LGBT residents As home of the federal Cenhave established themters for Disease Control & Preselves as an integral thread vention, Atlanta also made in the fabric of the city. news frequently throughout HISTORY

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Daniel Hernandez excited to visit South’s LGBT mecca Honorary grand marshal saved Gabby Giﬀord’s life during mass shooting

and Spanish with dozens of local and national media outlets. Hernandez also wrote a book, “They Call Me a Hero: A Memoir of My Youth.” In the book, he recounts the tragic shooting on Jan. 8, 2011, outside a Safeway supermarket near Tuscon, where By DYANA BAGBY he raced toward the gunshots to find Giffords bleeding from a head wound. He used his bare hand to put pressure on the bleeding wound Daniel Hernandez, the intern credited with and held her head in his lap until paramedics saving U.S. Rep. Gabby Giffords (D-AZ) after she arrived, then rode in an ambulance with her to was shot in 2011 while visiting with her Arizona the hospital. constituents, is now the target of an anti-gay The two don’t speak as often anymore becampaign to remove him from a local school cause both are so busy, Hernandez says. He’s board. busy speaking to various groups and at univerMonths after the shooting, Hernandez, 23, sities while Giffords and her husband, retired was elected to the Sunnyside Unified District Navy Captain Mark Kelly, founded Americans School Board, which covers southern Tuscan for Responsible Solutions, a super PAC that raises and areas in Pima County in Arizona. funds to urge Congress to find ways to reduce In August, however, he became the target of gun violence. an anti-gay smear campaign as part of a recall Giffords did tweet support of Hernandez last effort hoping to unseat him as well as three oth- month when the anti-gay campaign made naer school board members. tional headlines, writing, “Daniel Hernandez is One flyer reads, “Put a REAL man on the Sun- #ArizonaStrong. He helped save my life. We all nyside Board” and also states, “Daniel Hernan- benefit from his courage & strength. #Standdez is LGBT. We need someWithDaniel.” one who will support Sports The people behind the and cares about our kids. anti-gay flyers are cowWe don’t need someone who ards, Hernandez said. And hates our values. RECALL the reason they are comDaniel Hernandez TODAY.” ing after him in this way “Ay yay yay,” Hernandez, is because they know LGBT 23, says with a sigh during people are making amazing a phone interview while advances. driving between speaking “One thing I said right engagements. “We’re in 2013 after this happened is the and people still think this is reason they are doing this OK.” is because we’re winning on The recall effort means Daniel Hernandez, 23, said he is excited to so many other issues,” he he is currently in fundrais- be named an Atlanta honorary grand marshal says. ing mode to keep his seat in at this year’s Atlanta Pride parade and looks The recent Supreme office. But that won’t dampen forward to seeing the LGBT equality work tak- Court rulings on Prop 8 and his spirits when he comes ing place in the south. (Courtesy photo) the Defense of Marriage Act to Atlanta where he is being as well as the repeal of Don’t celebrated as an honorary Ask, Don’t Tell are major grand marshal. victories in the LGBT move“I am so excited. I love ment. Hernandez firmly coming to Atlanta,” he says. believes that scares some “I’ve not had the opportunity people. to go to a Pride in about a year Hernandez is concenso I’m excited to see all the trating on making sure he GRAND MARSHALS doesn’t get recalled from his great work being done in Atlanta, especially with it being first publicly elected post on in the south and being a mecca for LGBT people. the school board. Although he didn’t give specif“I especially look forward to eating at some ics, he does want to serve a life in public service. of your finer Southern restaurants,” Hernandez “I’m only 23 so I have to figure out what I says. “You can’t really find that great Southern want to do when I grow up. I have to try to make food in Arizona.” sure I don’t get thrown out of office for first As a young, gay, Hispanic man, his he- time,” he said. roic efforts to help save Giffords put him in the “That’s the problem with so many politicians spotlight. He was honored by President Barack — they worry about the next job instead of actuObama and Michelle Obama during the 2011 ally doing a good job in the office where they are State of the Union speech and has spoken out on now. I’m just concentrating on doing a good job behalf of gay and Hispanic equality in English in the office I’m in now.”

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Texas Sheriff Lupe Valdez: ‘Mayor of a little city’ Hispanic lesbian law enforcement official makes history By DYANA BAGBY When Lupe Valdez was elected sheriff in Dallas County, Texas, nine years ago, she made international headlines. As a Democrat in the heavily Republican state of Texas with President George W. Bush, one of the state’s most famous residents in the White House, her victory was noteworthy. Even more noteworthy was the fact she was also a Latina and an out lesbian. “I didn’t realize it was going to cause such a wave,” she says in a phone interview from her office in Texas. “All I wanted to do is change the department and bring honor to our shields,” she says. “I got woken up at 2 a.m. the week after I was elected from someone in Spain and I’m like, ‘What is the big deal?’ And they say, ‘You’re Hispanic, a female, a Democrat, a lesbian. You just don’t understand — and you’re in Bush’s backyard,’” she recalls. The media attention was shocking and the “media fuss” from both sides — progressives and social conservatives — was a lot to deal with. “People hated my guts,” she says. “At that time, it was a big thing. Now it’s not anymore. The first couple years, any media reports about me said I was ‘Lupe Valdez, the lesbian sheriff.’ That stopped about five years ago and I hope there will come a day when we don’t have to brag about things like this.” Valdez is one of three honorary grand marshals at Atlanta Pride this year, an unexpected but thrilling honor, she says. “I’ve been named grand marshal for ours [in Texas] but they know me there. It’s quite an honor somebody in Atlanta knows who I am,” she says. Valdez does have Atlanta connections, actually. She is featured in Atlanta filmmaker Cindy Abel’s documentary, “Breaking Through,” a film which profiles several openly LGBT elected officials from around the nation. It was tough at first, being the new sheriff who was so different than the “good ol’ boy network” that she said was running the department. “It was rough. I got death threats, emails

Sheriff Lupe Valdez of Dallas County, Texas, is one of the Atlanta Pride parade’s honorary grand marshals this year. (Official photo)

notes. I wish I had kept some of them but I threw them away. I didn’t even want to see them,” she says. “But after you prove yourself the naysayers and their voices are not heard as loud. They’re still there, but nobody listens to them anymore,” she says. When Valdez took over in 2004, the department was in poor shape — the jail was failing state and federal inspections, there was poor morale and accusations of corruption that ran deep. “There was so much work to do. We turned this department totally around,” she says. “It used to be a good ol’ boys, stab-you-in-theback place and there was abuse of inmates.” Valdez installed cameras in the deputies’ cars and in the jail and the problems dissipated. “You only have to make an example of a few,” she says. “And once you prove yourself, and you show you are saving the taxpayers money — then they say it’s OK, she’s doing a good job.” Valdez oversees a department with 2,500 employees and a jail that houses 6,500 inmates. It’s a job she could “literally do 24/7,” she says. “We’re a little city, and this is including sewer, death, birth, education — we have to deal with all of that in jail. People joke and say I’m the mayor of a little city and that’s basically what it is,” she says.

GRAND MARSHALS

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Tennis legend Navratilova fears for Americans without healthcare By DAVID AARON MOORE

Earlier this month out and proud tennis legend Martina Navratilova appeared at an AARP convention in Atlanta. She talked about a lot, but one particular subject invoked a response from Navratilova that likely echoes the sentiments of most Americans across the country: the recent government shut-down that came about after House Republicans insisted a new spending bill include a provision to defund President Obama’s healthcare program is another point of contention for Navratilova. “We’re basically being held hostage,” she says matter-of-factly. “It’s terrifying. So many people … don’t have coverage. And cutting food stamps? What is that about? It’s frightening. The extremists on the right will kill people without access to healthcare. Where has the empathy gone? Why are people so afraid of helping others? It’s insane.” One thing’s for sure, Navratilova is never one to shy away from controversy. She spoke with GAVO in an exclusive interview, prior to her arrival for the AARP event on a recent early morning. “I’m still wearing my pajamas,” she laughed. “And I’m catching up on the New York Times. We just moved in so the walls are completely barren, except for a poster I bought recently for an Ava Gardner movie called ‘Mogambo.’ I’ve always been a huge fan of hers. She was so beautiful and so strong. “I also had my big flat screen installed, and I just watched the first episode of ‘Orange is the New Black.’ I’m already hooked.” The Netflix series, like Navratilova, is immensely popular with the LGBT community in the U.S. The former tennis star hasn’t played professionally for years, but has never strayed far from the spotlight. She continues to be an ardent supporter for LGBT issues and an active spokesperson for AARP (she turns 57 Oct. 18). Coincidentally, Navratilova’s Atlanta appearance was only a week prior to Atlanta Pride. She spoke about the importance of attending Pride in the pages of Gay Star. “I would totally say, come on out. Coming to Pride will invigorate you, make you feel good about yourself. There’s complete acceptance. “Pride is a nice way … to meet others, and … not to feel alone in the world. I never felt validated until I marched in 1993 in Washington. That was the first time I felt completely

In a GA Voice exclusive she discusses aging, politics and her love of Pride “I would totally say, come on out. Coming to Pride will invigorate you, make you feel good about yourself. There’s complete acceptance.” — Martina Navratilova Julia Lemagova was the last Miss Soviet Union to compete in the Miss Universe pageant. After a successful career as a model she has settled down with Navratilova to raise her two daughters. (Publicity photo)

‘The extremists on the right will kill people without access to healthcare.’ – Martina Navratilova (Publicity photo)

accepted. I felt part of this group of people that I ﬁnally belong.” In reference to her involvement with AARP, she pointed out that LGBT seniors in the past have faced additional challenges many of their heterosexual counterparts haven’t, but things are looking better. “We always have faced challenges,” she offered. “We’re used to swimming against the stream – but that makes us kind of tough by the time we get to senior status. With the

laws that have come in to place recently, we have a lot more legal protections, so I think now it will be more of just an aging issue. “Aging is one of the key things I’m talking about at the convention – health and ﬁtness, taking care of yourself, and proactive healthcare prevention.” Navratilova is adamant that the country’s seniors deserve respect and a quality life. “It’s important that they have enough to eat, they’re warm and dry and well fed with

a good roof over their head. That’s why I’ve become so involved with the AARP.” While her work with the organization continues to take up a fair amount of her time, she is still active in other areas. “I do a lot of guest speaking around the world,” she explains. “Next month I go to Melbourne and later I’ll be speaking in Greece, Indonesia, Hong Kong and Thailand. I speak on a number of topics – getting more out of your life as you age, women’s issues, ﬁtness, diversity in the community and I’m still consulting in tennis.” She is quick to conﬁrm that she stays very busy with her partner and her two children – two girls. “One is 12, and the other will be eight next month. They’re very active.” Navratilova’s partner has the distinction of being the world’s last Miss Soviet Union in 1991. Julia Lemigova, 42, was also the second runner-up to the Miss Universe pageant that same year and a successful career as model followed. The two have been a couple since 2009. When asked about future plans, Navratilova chuckled and offered the following: “I wanna’ go somewhere I’ve never been before. I think I’m going to visit the Galapagos Islands.”

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Atlanta Pride’s Grand Marshals represent Every year Atlanta’s Grand Atlanta and she came out there among other leftist and femiMarshals are comprised of individuals and organizations in nist women who together Georgia who have contributed founded the Atlanta Lesbian Feminist Alliance (ALFA significantly to the LGBT com1972 to 1994), and later DAmunity in Atlanta and the GRAND MARSHALS RII (Dykes for the Second state of Georgia. American Revolution). Atlanta Pride’s Parade Her legal training (1976-79) at the People’s Grand Marshals list reads like a who’s who of LGBT movers and shakers and staunch allies of College of Law in L.A. led to work as a staff person with the National the community. On the list are such notable individuals and Jury Project, a brief groups as Dr. Christina Bucher, Lorraine Fon- period doing poverty tana, Mark S. King, Evelyn Mims, Charles Ste- law with Georgia Lephens, the Atlanta Sisters of Perpetual Indul- gal Services, and later using her legal skills gence and Charis Circle. All will be featured in the annual Parade that as a paralegal back in NYC for the EEOC (Oct takes place at 1:00 p.m. on Sunday, Oct. 13. Here’s a look at some of the 2013 Grand Mar- 1999 to Jan, 2004), and in Georgia as a Legal shalls: Assistant for Lambda Lorraine Fontana Legal Education & De- (File photo) DR. CHRISTINA fense Fund (2006-2012). BUCHER In the mid ‘70s and Dr. Christina (Tina) ‘80s she often served as an ALFA rep to coalition/ Bucher lives in Rome, partnership projects with both others in the GA, where she is an growing “out”-LGBTQ community as well as the Associate Professor of larger progressive community. More recently English, Rhetoric, she became a member of the short-lived Queer and Writing at Berry Progressive Agenda (QPA), and has endeavored College. For most of Dr. Christina (Tina) to be an ally to queers of color-led organizations her 18 years at Berry, Bucher (Via Facebook) in the ATL. She’s also member/supporter of First she has been one of Existentialist Congregation of Atlanta’s Social many people who have Justice Guild, the Georgia Peace & Justice Coaliworked persistently to gain official status for Listion, Charis Books, the Atlanta Grandmothers ten, an LGBT student organization. This goal was for Peace, SAGE Atlanta, and Southerners on New finally achieved in September 2012. Ground.” She functioned as an advisor to LGBT students and allies for the years when a group was EVELYN MIMS still unofficial, wrote for campus publications A longtime friend and spoke on panels raising awareness on LGBT issues, collaborated with the Dean of Students to and supporter of Atbring Safe Space training to the campus in 2008, lanta’s LGBT commuand served with other dedicated colleagues and nity, Mims has been a students on the committee whose work led to regular contributor to approval of Listen last fall. The group made its WXIA for several years, inaugural march in the Atlanta Pride Parade in During her career she has served as the only October 2012. In addition, Dr. Bucher created Berry’s first African-American Evelyn Mims (Via course in gay and lesbian literature, now listed chapter president of Facebook) in the college catalog. She served as a PFLAG rep- the National Academy resentative in Rome from 2007-2012 and is an ac- of Television Arts and Sciences. Her television career spans more than 30 tive member of the board for the AIDS Resource years. A graduate of Jackson State University Council of Rome. She shares life and adventures in Mississippi, her first job was at NBC affiliate with her partner, Sherre Harrington. WLBT. She later rose to Program Coordinator of WXIA, another NBC affiliate in Atlanta. LORRAINE FONTANA Working in front of the camera as well beLorraine Fontana was raised in a working class Italian family in Queens, NYC. She behind the scenes, Mims has received three Emmy came a supporter of the Civil Rights and Black nominations for her role as the “Soap Sultress” Empowerment Movements and an anti-war on 11Alive’s top rated ‘Noonday’ show, which has lead to guest appearances on the daytime soap activist early in life. Joining VISTA in 1968 is what brought her to opera “Days of Our Lives.”

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Oliver Howington (right) and Kendall Prevat paint over the graffiti with primer to ready the wall fro a community mural. (Photo by Dyana Bagby)

LESBIAN-OWNED BOOKSTORE TAGGED WITH ANTI-GAY GRAFFITI Lesbian-owned Charis Books & More was hit by vandals on Oct. 3 who defaced the renowned purple house in the heart of Little 5 Points with anti-gay graffiti. The vandals spray painted “Eat mor dik,” “Fuck dikes” and “Creep” as well as drew an image of penis on wall of the building where the small parking lot is located. The graffiti was scrawled on the feminist book store just an hour after the store closed following a packed house for an Atlanta Pride literary event. “We had a full house, standing room only, and at various times the crowd spilled out into the parking lot,” said Elizabeth Anderson, executive director of Charis Circle, the nonprofit arm of Charis Books & More.

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“We had 20 different LGBT writers from different segments of the queer community. It was a beautiful event,” Anderson said. “This event was certainly more visible than others we’ve had. I don’t know if that had anything to do with the timing … but also some other businesses in Little 5 Points were hit [with graffiti].” An anonymous person called the Atlanta Police Department at 11:14 p.m. to report seeing men loitering and painting the walls of the bookstore. “On the west-facing wall, open to the parking lot, I observed four pieces of graffiti which contained anti-lesbian messages,” the police report states. Charis’ Thursday literary event finished about 10 p.m. and everyone was out of the store by 10:15 p.m., said co-owner Sara Luce Look. One of the few remaining feminist bookstores in the nation, Charis celebrates its 39th birthday in November. Volunteers showed up and painted the wall with white primer to cover the graffiti and a community mural is planned to be painted on the wall. “I am from the school that if they are gun-

ning for you then you are doing something right,” Anderson said. “It means politically you are valuable. To me it means we are doing good work.”

ATLANTA GAY BUSINESS GROUP CHARTS NEW DIRECTION Founded 21 years ago by a small group of gay and lesbian business people, the Atlanta Executive Network has served as a place for LGBT people to network with other professionals in a safe space. Times have changed and so has the business of networking for LGBT people, says Todd Harkleroad, president of AEN. And that means it’s time for AEN to catch up with the new world where LGBT people are able to more open and out in their personal lives as well as their business lives. On Jan. 1, AEN will become the Metro Atlanta Association of Professionals, or MAAP. “Our goal is to provide the highest quality networking environment for the region’s LGBT and allied community,” Harkleroad says. When AEN ﬁrst started, invitations were

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More @ www.thegavoice.com sent by mail “with no indications of the contents of the envelope,” he recalls. “The world in which this group was formed was very different from today’s business environment. It was somewhat rare for a person to be open about his or her sexual orientation. The work environment was far more corporate in nature and the exponential growth of small and medium-sized businesses was just beginning. “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” is no longer the law of the land and LGBT people do not just live in the bubble of Midtown but make their homes throughout metro Atlanta, Harkleroad adds. The new changes with AEN/MAAP will begin its roll out during Atlanta Pride weekend Oct. 12-13 where the group will have a booth in the marketplace to inform interested people.

The Atlanta Executive Network is relaunching Jan. 1 with a new logo, name and mission. (Courtesy photo)

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Fun things to see and do in Atlanta In addition to Pride, check out what else has to Atlanta oﬀer

Decatur Square The charming, quirky city of Decatur is just six miles east of downtown. Friendly, walkable and right on the MARTA line, this community is home to more than 200 boutiques, restaurants and galleries. Eddie’s Attic is a must-see for live, local musicians. Year-round festivals include the Arts Festival in May, the Beach Party in June and the Book Festival on Labor Day weekend. www. visitdecaturgeorgia.com

Atlanta, Georgia offers tons of fun for families, kids and couples. There are so many things to do in Atlanta - from top attractions and history, to outdoor adventures and award-winning culture - you’re sure to ﬁnd seasonal sensations year-round! To create your must-have memories, start with this list of 50 fun things to do in Atlanta.

Fernbank Museum of Natural History Fernbank Museum of Natural History brings the world’s largest dinosaurs to life and explores global cultures through hands-on exhibits. NatureQuest is a cutting-edge children’s wing, which offers innovative interactions with live animal habitats and promotes exploration of ecosystems found throughout Georgia. Enjoy a classy mix of culture and cocktails with Martinis & IMAX® every Friday night. www.fernbankmuseum.org

Alliance Theatre Company Part of the Woodruff Arts Center, the Alliance Theatre is one of the largest regional theaters in the nation. Serving a diverse audience, the Alliance has produced more than 50 world premieres bringing the globe’s best talents to Atlanta. www.alliancetheatre.org Atlanta Botanical Garden With more than 30 acres of gardens, forest, wildﬂower trails and the 10,000-square-foot Fuqua Orchid Center, the Atlanta Botanical Garden is one of Atlanta’s most beautiful attractions. The Canopy Walk, a 40-foot high suspension bridge creating a treetop walking trail, is the garden’s latest addition. Visitors will also enjoy the Edible Garden Outdoor Kitchen and soothing sanctuary of the Cascades Garden. www.atlantabotanicalgarden.org

Don’t miss a visit to the Atlanta Botanical Gardens – it’s at the far north end of Piedmont Park. (Phoro by Anthony Masterson)

Georgia Aquarium Dive into a one-of-a-kind aquatic experience at the Georgia Aquarium, where imaginations go to play. At the world’s largest aquarium, you’ll discover graceful beluga whales, spectacular whale sharks, playful penguins and aquatic animals from around the globe. Make a splash with the AT&T Dolphin Tales exhibit – a theatrical experience featuring live actors, elaborate costumes and, of course, dancing dolphins! www. georgiaaquarium.org

Atlanta History Center The Atlanta History Center features 32 acres of gardens, wildlife trails and woodland areas. The complex includes the Tullie Smith Farm (1840s) and the fully restored 1928 Swan House mansion. The museum offers exhibitions on the Civil War, African-American heritage, and Southern folk art, with a wing dedicated to the 1996 Centennial Olympic Games. www.atlantahistorycenter.com Atlantic Station Great boutiques, sidewalk cafes, hip restaurants and a 16-screen IMAX® 3D theater are the focus at Atlantic Station, designed to feel like a city within a city. Every week, taste the local ﬂavor during Food Truck Fridays. Each summer Central Park hosts open-air artisan markets and screens just-released ﬁlms. Free shuttles are available from the Arts Center MARTA Station. www.atlanticstation.com Centennial Olympic Park Home of the 1996 Centennial Olympic Games and the world’s largest Olympic Ring fountain, Centennial Olympic Park provides year-round entertainment including concerts, festivals and family activities. www. centennialpark.com

The Fox Theatre Designed in the late 1920s, this opulent, historic landmark was originally the Yaarab Temple Shrine Mosque. Today, The Fox Theatre presents shows by Broadway in Atlanta, Broadway Across America and Theater of the Stars, as well as a summer movie series. It is also home to the Atlanta Ballet’s annual performance of “Nutcracker.” www.foxtheatre.org

The Georgia Aquarium is one of the largest aquariums in the world. (Photo by Laura Douglas-Brown)

In the heart of Midtown: The Fox Theatre is located at 660 Peachtree St. (Publicity photo)

Center for Puppetry Arts As the largest organization in North America dedicated to the art of puppetry, the Center for Puppetry Arts features the nation’s largest interactive museum, Puppets: The Power of Wonder. Weekly performances include a fun family series and New Directions for adults. www.puppet.org

ters for your next river trip. The Chattahoochee Nature Center in Roswell offers educational programs, canoe trips and other activities. www. chattnaturecenter.org

Chattahoochee River Fun Sixteen recreation areas along a 48-mile stretch of the Chattahoochee River have been designed to preserve the river and provide outdoor family fun. Contact Chattahoochee Outﬁt-

The Children’s Museum of Atlanta The Children’s Museum of Atlanta features hands-on exhibits and activities where kids can discover, imagine and explore as they learn how things work in their world. Whether it’s building a sand castle, painting on the walls, or exploring the latest exhibit, children will discover why it’s a smart place to play! www.childrensmuseumatlanta.org

Grant Park Atlanta’s oldest city park features lush lawns and stunning views. Framed by gorgeous Victorian homes and bordering Zoo Atlanta, Grant Park is a haven for families. It is also near Oakland Cemetery as well as the Atlanta Cyclorama, which immortalizes the 1864 Battle of Atlanta. www.grantpark.org High Museum of Art & Local Galleries The High Museum of Art offers a diverse selection of art including 19th and 20th century American works, European paintings, and African and African-American art, as well as modern and contemporary art. The High is the leading art museum in the Southeast, and a part of the Woodruff Arts Center. Afterward, step across the street to MODA (Museum of Design Atlanta)

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Entertainment around town THINGS TO DO, continued from Page 25 and explore innovative, urban-inspired exhibits of design and style. www.high.org Inside CNN Studio Tour Tour the core of CNN Worldwide for an upclose look at global news in the making. This 55-minute guided walking tour offers behindthe-scenes views of Atlanta’s CNN studios and an exclusive glimpse of news and broadcasting in action. www.cnn.com/tour/ Jimmy Carter Presidential Library & Museum The Jimmy Carter Presidential Library & Museum is an opportunity to learn about the life and work of the 39th president. Explore a replica of the Oval Ofﬁce, view special exhibits, and listen to oral histories and interviews from the Carter White House. You will also trace Carter’s life from his 6th grade report card to his 2002 Nobel Peace Prize. www.jimmycarterlibrary.gov Margaret Mitchell House & Museum Margaret Mitchell lived in a three-story Tudor Revival mansion in Midtown while writing the Pulitzer Prize-winning novel Gone With the Wind. The house, which Mitchell nicknamed “The Dump,” includes tours, a museum, souvenir shop and a literature series. www.margaretmitchellhouse.com

Centennial Olympic Park in the heart of Atlanta. (Publicity photo)

treetop adventure course, and Geyser Towers, a multi-level ropes course, which combines the challenge of climbing with the thrill of a water park. www.stonemountainpark.com Underground Atlanta Visit historic Underground Atlanta for food trucks on Wednesdays and annual events such as the Peach Drop New Year’s Eve Celebration, Elevate Art Above Underground exhibition and Heritage Arts Festival. It also offers guided tours and the Kenny’s Alley music and nightlife district. www.underground-atlanta.com

Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Site & Sweet Auburn District The area of Sweet Auburn served as the thriving center of Atlanta’s black enterprise from the 1890s to the 1940s. At the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Site, explore his birth home, historic Ebenezer Baptist Church and The King Center, where Dr. King’s Nobel Peace Prize is displayed. The crypt and grave site of Dr. King and his wife, Coretta Scott King, are also located here. www.doi.gov/index.cfm Michael C. Carlos Museum Located on Emory University’s campus, the Michael C. Carlos Museum houses ancient objects from Egypt, Rome, the Near East, and the West. It is also home to collections of 19th and 20th century sub-Saharan African art and European and American Renaissance works. www. carlos.emory.edu Six Flags Over Georgia Six Flags Over Georgia celebrates 45 years with more squeals, thrills and spills than ever before! This 100-acre park just west of the city features 40 rides, fun family adventures and a bustling for-kids-only section. Purchase The Flash Pass and ride your favorite coasters without waiting in line. The park offers 27 eateries with great dining options for a full meal or quick snack, as well as numerous souvenir shops. www.sixﬂags.com/overGeorgia/index.aspx

Civil Rights Legend Martin Luther King, Jr.’s birthplace in Old Fourth Ward. (Publicity photo)

Stone Mountain Park Home to the world’s largest piece of exposed granite rock and longest running laser show, Stone Mountain Park is Georgia’s most-visited attraction. The Lasershow Spectacular in Mountainvision™ has graphics and awe-inspiring effects that create multi-dimensional magic on one of the world’s largest screens – Stone Mountain. With more than 3,200 acres of natural beauty, you’ll ﬁnd family-oriented recreational activities, special events, lodging and camping. Visit the 1870s town of Crossroads® for live shows, craft demos, shopping and dining, or enjoy the Great Locomotive Adventure, Scenic Railroad and Antebellum Plantation & Farmyard. Other family favorites are Sky Hike, the largest

World of Coca-Cola Experience the intriguing World of Coca-Cola! The attraction features a multi-sensory 4-D theater, an extraordinary 1880s soda fountain, live-action bottling line, and the opportunity to sample nearly 60 different beverages from around the world. Now you can experience the quest for one of the world’s best-kept secrets in the Vault of the Secret Formula. www.worldofcoca-cola.com Zoo Atlanta Located in historic Grant Park, Zoo Atlanta features more than 200 species of animals from the African plains and Asian forests. Visit baby Po and the other playful Giant Pandas, marvelous mammals and adorable reptiles and amphibians! The Ford African Rain Forest houses 24 gorillas in one of North America’s largest captive populations. www.zooatlanta.org This article appears courtesy Atlanta.net/AVCN

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Some of the highlights in this year’s Lambda Car Club exhibit at Pride include a ’59 Chevy Apache pickup truck, a ’72 Mustang Mach 1 and a late ‘70s VW Beetle Convertible. (Photo courtesy Lambda Car Club)

Pride showcases gay car and motorcycle club Lambda Car Club displays vintage, collectible and unusual automobiles By JIM FARMER It’s an aspect of Atlanta Pride weekend that can ﬂy a little under the radar, but the annual Car and Motorcycle Show on Saturday is a chance for area and regional LGBT car lovers to showcase their prized possessions. John Muller, a longtime Atlanta resident, is the president of Lambda Car Club (LCC) International, which is America’s largest car club for gay men and lesbians. LCC Dogwood, based in Atlanta and founded in 1989, is the Southeast chapter, covering Georgia, Alabama and the Carolinas. Muller served as the local president before taking over the national post. For the past decade, LLC Dogwood has worked with Atlanta Pride to place cars in Piedmont Park on Pride Saturday. “We have 25 to 30 each year,” says Muller. “We try and get a variety.” Some of the highlights this year include a ’59 Chevy Apache pickup truck, a ’72 Mustang Mach 1 and a late ‘70s VW Beetle Convertible. It’s not just an assemblage of old cars but specialty ones as well. Some members, for instance, are into miniature cars. According to Muller, there’s a rotation of automobiles each year. The cars belong to individual members and some of them are used the next day to transport grand marshals in the parade. Part of the club’s function is outreach — getting the word out to others that there’s a group with similar interests. Members can share an online database to look up other LGBT car lovers or speciﬁc cars. Men make up the majority of members although some women are involved. Heterosexuals are welcome too. The chief ingredient is sharing the sentiment that cars

MORE INFO Atlanta Pride Car and Motorcycle Show Saturday, Oct. 12, 10:45 a.m – 4 p.m. Roadway inside Piedmont Park between 12th Street and 14th Street Gates Piedmont Park.

are about more than transportation. More than 2,000 auto hobbyist and enthusiasts are involved nationally, as well as some in Canada and Europe. LLC Dogwood used to have a booth at Pride but then they decided to do an exhibit of cars instead. Something the group is considering for the future is to keep the exhibit on Saturday but return to having a booth on Pride Sunday for more personal interaction, says Muller. Yet the group’s activities aren’t once a year gigs. LLC Dogwood coordinates other events throughout the calendar year to boot, such as Cruise Ins, visits to auto shows and various social outings. Muller feels gay and lesbians like old cars for the reasons they like anything vintage. “Gay society has a sense of preserving what was strong and special in their previous day,” he says. Muller has 14 vintage cars. His ﬁrst — purchased in the early ’80s — was a 1966 Lincoln four-door convertible. But his pride and joy is a 1960 Cadillac El Dorado Brougham. Buck Cooke, executive director of Atlanta Pride, feels that the Car and Motorcycle show is a unique addition to the already busy weekend, adding to the multi-faceted element of what Pride is about. “The fact is, (the LGBT community) is full of stylish people and some people exhibit their style through their cars,” he says. Adjacent to the exhibit will be motorcycles displayed by the Lost Boys, which is a queer Atlanta motorcycle group, which Muller calls a great supplement to the exhibit.

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Pride: who, what, when, where page 31 Clubs: the best places to party page 33 Dining: ATLâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s best eats page 34

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2013 Atlanta Pride Schedule of Events Highlights of Atlanta’s Pride Schedule of Events

Friday, Oct. 11 Fifth Annual Official Atlanta Pride Kick-off Party at the Georgia Aquarium 7:00 p.m. – 11:30 p.m. This event is a great way to kickoff the Atlanta Pride weekend with over 4,000 of your closest friends! In 2012, this event won the prestigious event industry ALLIE AWARD for Best Themed Party in Atlanta. This is an a.m.azing way to experience the Georgia Aquarium with special evening hours and exclusive admission pricing just for Atlanta Pride. Imagine exploring the world’s largest, most magical aquarium with dim lighting and the sounds of Atlanta’s very own DJ Vicki Powell. This year DJ Chris Griswold will be adding to the experience with his signature sound in our Oceans Ballroom located on the second level. Official Atlanta Pride Kick-off After Party at Jungle Atlanta 9:00 p.m – 3:00 a.m. DJ Ed Bailey heats up the main room starting at 9:00 p.m. with a special live performance by Cazwell. Edie Cheezburger and the Other Show Girls kick off the night in the Jungle Cabaret with a special performance at 9:30 p.m. 18 and up are welcome.

Saturday, Oct. 12 Pride Marketplace at Piedmont Park 10:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m. Featuring over 200 market vendor booths, the Atlanta Pride Marketplace is the largest expo of its kind in the Southeast and is comprised of non-proﬁt organizations, small businesses, large businesses, and national corporations. YoGaga (Lady Gaga-inspired yoga) at Piedmont Park Athletic Fields (towards the Bud Light Stage) 10:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. Tough Love Yoga and lululemon athletica are back for an encore, presenting a yoga inspired event by the mother monster herself Lady Gaga! This all-levels class focuses on building strength and ﬂexibility. Car and Motorcycle Show at Roadway inside Piedmont Park between 12th Street and 14th Street Gates 10:45 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.

Come check out this stunning combination of antique, classic, special interest cars and motorcycles owned by members of the Lambda Car Club and the Lost Boys. Atlanta Pride Commitment Ceremony at W Atlanta Midtown - Altitude (27th floor) 11:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. This non-denominational ceremony gives couples the opportunity to pledge their commitment to each other publicly before friends and family. Although registration for this event closes Oct. 4 it’s still a moving event to attend. Atlanta Pride Trans March Outside the Visitor’s Center near 12th Street Gate 1:45 p.m. – 2:45 p.m. This march celebrates and promotes visibility of the Trans community. The march takes place on the festival grounds and all Trans people and Trans allies are welcome to participate. We encourage people to make and bring signs supportive of the Trans community Campus Pride LGBT College Fair 2:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. Presented by PNC Bank in partnership with Atlanta Pride at Large tent near the Playground and Greystone Pool House Military Veterans Taps and Wreath Placing Ceremony at Veterans Marker, 1071 Piedmont Avenue NE (near the intersection of 12th Street and Piedmont Avenue) 5:00 p.m. – 5:30 p.m. Active duty military personnel will join veterans from World War II to Afghanistan. The ceremony will include the retirement of the flag that flies over the monument, the placing of a wreath, and the playing of taps. Please join us as we honor all the men and women who serve to defend our nation’s freedom, particularly those who have given their lives in defense of liberty, and commemorate the momentous changes in the past years from the repeal of DADT to the fall of DOMA. Atlanta Pride Dyke March at Charles Allen Gate 6:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. The Dyke March is open to all women loving women (trans-inclusive) of any race, culture, orientation, ability, health, socioeconomic level, family structure, faith or age. You do not have to register for the Dyke March, simply show up at the Charles Allen Gate no later than 6:00 p.m. There will be a trolley with first-come, first-served seating

for the elderly, those with mobility impairments, or famiilies with small children. Queer Your Gender Dance Party at the Bud Light Stage 6:45 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. Dyke March Folks, Trans March Folks, and queers of all stripes will be getting down to the sounds of DJ Ree de la Vega at this free event. All are welcome! Official Atlanta Pride Women’s Party: Crush at My Sister’s Room Oct 12 at 7:00 p.m. – Oct 13 at 3:00 a.m. Hosted by Whitney Mixter and Sara Bettencourt from “The Real L Word,” Crush will feature DJ Liz Owen and DJ Tina V. MSR will be serving food until 2:00 a.m. and you must be 21 and up to attend this event. My Sister’s Room is celebrating 17 years and is the longest-running lesbian bar in the Southeast. Color Our World: Life, Spirit, Magic! at Ferst Center for the Arts at Georgia Tech 8:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m. Over 200 musicians from 32 different LGBT bands will ﬁll the Ferst Center stage with the latest in symphonic wind music. Atlanta Freedom Bands hosts the Lesbian and Gay Band Association’s international conference during Atlanta Pride weekend, bringing together the largest number of LGBT bands ever assembled in one place at the same time.The concert also features the world premiere of “Colors: A Celebration!” from Atlanta composer Tim Jansa, specially commissioned for this event. Atlanta author, GAVO columnist and playwright Topher Payne will be the special guest host for the evening.

Sunday, Oct. 13 Community Health Expo at Blue Market Row 10:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m. The Community Health Expo gathers community health organizations in one central location. Whether you need an HIV test, information on preventing breast cancer, or general information on staying healthy, these organizations can assist you. Cultural Exhibit at Bridge across Lake Clara Meer 10:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m. Atlanta Pride features a retrospective of past exhibits, highlighting different aspects of the LGBTQ experience through culture, politics, and human rights.

JustUsATL Youth Space at Bandstand 10:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m. All LGBT youth aged 13-28 are invited to spend time with members of JustUsATL, a youth-founded and youth-lead organization. Youth can learn more about JustUsATL and their services and meet others in their age group Pride Marketplace at Piedmont Park 10:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m. Featuring over 200 market vendor booths, the Atlanta Pride Marketplace is the largest expo of its kind in the Southeast and is comprised of non-proﬁt organizations, small businesses, large businesses, and national corporations. Official Atlanta Pride Brunch: 12th Annual HRC Pride Brunch: Fall In Love With Pride at Empire State South 11:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. Enjoy two hours of bottomless mimosas, bloody Marys, and a delicious brunch while watching the Atlanta Pride Parade from the best location on the route!. Enjoy good music, great friends, and fall in love with Pride all over again. Doors open at 11:30 a.m. and service begins at 12:30 p.m. Atlanta Pride Parade Peachtree Street and Ralph McGill Boulevard to Charles Allen Drive NE and 10th Street 1:00 p.m. – 3:30 p.m. Assembly at 10:00 a.m., steps off at 1:00 p.m. The annual Atlanta Pride Parade is the largest parade in the City of Atlanta. Join tens of thousands of spectators as we celebrate our pride in the streets of Midtown. Starlight Cabaret at Coca-Cola Stage 7:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. The best drag entertainment that the city has to offer closes out Pride weekend each year and is always a crowd-pleaser.

THINGS TO DO

Plan your Pride

THINGS TO DO

NIGHTLIFE

THINGS TO DO

Burkhart's Pub

1492 Piedmont Ave. Atlanta, GA 30309 404- 872-4403 | www.burkharts.com

From drag to superstar DJs, Atlanta’s LGBT nightlife offers a little something for everyone.

Atlanta Eagle 306 Ponce de Leon Ave. Atlanta, GA 30308 404-873-2453 www.atlantaeagle.com The home of Atlanta’s leather community for more than 25 years. Masters, slaves, daddies, bears and cubs all dancing in the den. Leather shop on site for all of your naughty needs.

AMSTERDAM 502-A Amsterdam Ave. NE Atlanta, GA 30306 404-892-2227 www.amsterdamatlanta.com Mostly a guys’ spot with a few women mixed in. Sports, music videos and gay TV faves on the many flat screens around the bar. Full menu including $5 lunch specials.

BJ Roosters 2043 Cheshire Bridge Road Atlanta, GA 30324 404-634-5895 www.facebook.com/bj.roosters Neighborhood go-go boy bar with pool, darts and video moved to a new, larger location on Cheshire Bridge Road in 2013.

Bliss Atlanta 2284 Cheshire Bridge Road Atlanta, GA 30324 404-320-1924 www.blissofatlanta.com From full male nude revues to private dancing. Watch the action from the floor or from the luxurious skyboxes while sipping on your favorite cocktails and enjoy the beats of live DJ mixes.

Burkhart’s has something for everyone: a wide range of glam and camp drag keeps the energy going in the main area, an upstairs with pool tables and balcony overlooking the performance area and perhaps the best patio in Midtown. Head there after work and you’ll find a dinner crowd gnoshing from Burkhart’s full menu of tavern favorites.

Bulldogs 893 Peachtree St. NE Atlanta, GA 30309 404-872-3025 An ATL institution since 1978. Located in the heart of Midtown. Great DJs spinning house and hip-hop; heavyhanded bartenders assure you get your money’s worth. Patio. Expect a line out the door on weekends.

Blake's ON THE PARK 227 10th St. Atlanta, GA 30309 404-892-5786 blakesontheparkatlanta.com Blake’s is a must-do for gay male travelers. There’s not much of a dance floor, but that doesn’t stop the party. Blake’s attracts a beautiful mix of men of all ages, a fair number of women, and boasts some of the city’s most legendary drag queens. Conveniently located just off Piedmont Park.

THE COCKPIT Atlanta 465 Boulevard Atlanta, GA 30312 thecockpit-atlanta.blogspot.com Speakeasy bar in East Atlanta for men who seek men for scruffy good times. Smoke-free interior with a large covered patio. Full kitchen. Free Pool.

Felix's Atlanta 1510-G Piedmont Ave. Atlanta, GA 30324 404-249-7899 www.felixsatlanta.com Small neighborhood bar in Ansley Square. Fun for early-evening drinks and hanging out with friends.

Friends

Mary's

76 4th St., Atlanta, GA 30308 404-815-0456 www.flexbaths.com

1287 Glenwood Ave. | Atlanta, GA 30316 | 404-624-4411 | www.marysatlanta.com

Flex is a gay bathhouse complete with sauna, steam room, pool, sundeck and private rooms. Membership required; available on daily, six month and annual rates.

Mary’s has been the hip bar of choice for alt-gays and self-proclaimed queers for several years. Proudly called East Atlanta’s gay dive bar, don’t miss Mary-oke held every Tuesday and Saturday evening.

HERETIC 2069 Cheshire Bridge Road Atlanta, GA 30324 404-325-3061 www.hereticatlanta.com If you’re looking to dance with a mix of the shirtless and light leather crowds, the Heretic is definitely the place to go. You’ll find a diverse mix on weekends with heavy beats from guest DJs from around the country. 3-Legged Cowboy dancing on Tuesdays, Thursdays and select Saturdays draw out the ladies, too.

THE HIDEAWAY 1544 Piedmont Ave. Atlanta, GA 30324 404-874-8247 www.atlantahideaway.com Midtown’s oldest neighborhood gay bar. Free pool and wi-fi. Located behind Cooks Warehouse at Ansley Mall.

Jungle 2115 Faulkner Road | Atlanta, GA 30324 | 4 04-844-8800 www.jungleclubatlanta.com Huge newly renovated dance club that plays host to a variety of events, most notably Monday’s “Stars of the Century” drag show and Saturday’s dance night with big-name DJs and a younger crowd. One of Atlanta’s few 18 to party, 21 to drink clubs.w

My Sister's Room 1271 Glenwood Ave. Atlanta, GA 30316 678-705-4585 www.mysistersroom.com Atlanta’s only lesbian bar, My Sister’s Room is located in the heart of thriving East Atlanta Village with a sports bar/pub feel during the day and a nightclub feel at night. There’s plenty of space for dancing inside, mingling on the back deck, and there’s a stage for live music and entertainment. Commonly called

Mixx ATLANTA Ansley Square 1492 Piedmont Ave. #B Atlanta, GA 30309 404-228-4372 www.mixxatlanta.com Atlanta’s premiere video venue hosts three different lounges for socializing with friends or hosting a party or an event. “Chill’ on weeknights with piano night on Tuesdays and other weekly events, then “Sizzle” with DJs Fridays through Sundays.

Model T 699 Ponce de Leon Ave. Atlanta, GA 30308 404-872-2209 www.modeltatlanta.com Nightly events including poker and Wii. Pool, jukebox, video games and wi-fi. Known for its great drinks.

LeBuzz

Opus 1

585 Franklin Road Marietta, GA 30067 770-424-1337 www.thenewlebuzz.com

1086 Alco St. Atlanta, GA 30324 404-634-6478

People outside Interstate 285, the perimeter highway that circles Atlanta, know how to party every day of the week thanks to the Marietta bar, the New LeBuzz, which holds regular drag queen and king shows in its massive space in Marietta, about a half hour from downtown Atlanta.

Very friendly bar with a devoted local following; no pretention here.

Oscar's 1510 Piedmont Ave. Atlanta, GA 30324 404-815-8841 www.oscarsatlanta.com

A recent renovation with a new look and feel in the same location at popular Ansley Square. Video on demand; weekly events include show tunes, karaoke and DJs.

SWINGING RICHARDS 1400 Northside Drive Atlanta, GA 30318 404-352-0532 www.swingingrichards.com Legendary men’s strip club acclaimed for its huge stable of totally nude hunky dancers. A particularly fun adventure for a group of friends looking to celebrate and cut loose.

Tripp's Bar 1931 Piedmont Circle Atlanta, GA 30324 www.trippsatlanta.com Cozy unassuming bar with karaoke, darts and free wi-fi. Taco bar on Wednesdays.

WOOFS

2425 Piedmont Road Atlanta, GA 30324 404-869-9422 www.woofsatlanta.com Atlanta’s only gay sports bar, Woofs hosts a pretty regular bear crowd with little elbow room on game days. The weekly line-up includes trivia, poker, sports on 21 screens, pool, darts and a popular menu.

XION 2241 Faulkner Road Atlanta, GA 30324 http://on.fb.me/Me5diq Known for hosting big-name DJs, frequently on major party weekends, Xion is a members-only after hours social club. Located behind Jungle and only open Sunday morning from 3 a.m. to 9 a.m.

XS Ultra Lounge 708 Spring St Atlanta, GA 866-602-5553 www.facebook.com/ XSUltraLounge XS is home to Traxx Atlanta — the mega-popular black gay nightlife group that hosts weekly events and huge parties during Atlanta’s infamous Black Gay Pride. VIP sections and outrageously good cocktails. The perfect place for an after-work drink and dance.

242 Boulevard Atlanta, GA 30312 404-588-0006 www.agaverestaurant.com From stuffed mountain trout tomatillo to Mexican rack of lamb and traditional Posole soup, Agave is known for eclectic Southwestern food plus an extensive tequila bar.

APRES DIEM

931 Monroe Dr. Atlanta, GA 30308 404-872-3333 www.apresdiem.com For a romantic night out, you can’t beat Apres Diem. Among the bistro’s perks are its candlelit ambience, great wine choices and wait staff who never seem in a hurry to bustle customers out the door. The roasted lamb and Moroccan salmon are great, too.

Campagnolo 980 Piedmont Ave. Atlanta, GA 30308 404-343-2446 www.peasantatl.com Campagnolo offers a variety of Italian and Mediterranean dishes in a casual atmosphere for lunch, dinner and weekend brunch. The patio provides a street-level view of Atlanta’s most beautiful, LGBT-friendly neighborhoods.

COWTIPPERS

1600 Piedmont Ave. Atlanta, GA 30324 404-874-3751 www.cowtippersatlanta.com

Photo via Facebook

Bar food with a Southwestern ﬂair done right: steaks, burgers, nachos and margaritas to live for. The spacious patio practically spills gay

THINGS TO DO

clientele onto Piedmont Avenue. People watching at its ﬁnest.

to Dine ONE MIDTOWN KITCHEN

Delia’s Chicken Sausage Stand

489 Moreland Ave. Atlanta, GA 30316 404-474-9651 www.thesausagestand.com Delia Champion burst onto the Atlanta food scene in 1993 when she opened the ﬁrst Flying Biscuit in Candler Park. The lesbian restaurateur returned in 2011 with her Chicken Sausage Stand, which offers sliders and “slingers,” homemade link sausage served on a hoagie. Open 24 hours on weekends.

Einstein’s

1077 Juniper St. | Atlanta, GA 30309 404-876-7925 www.einsteinsatlanta.com Still going strong at its Midtown spot after oh so many years, Einstein’s is a terriﬁc place for a quick bite to eat while meeting with clients/colleagues, or for a lovely brunch or dinner with friends, with a menu that never seems static.

Fox Brothers BBQ 1238 DeKalb Ave. Atlanta, GA 30307 404-577-4030 www.foxbrosbbq.com

Featuring meats slow-cooked with hickory chips, Fox Brothers BBQ serves Texas roots and Southern style. Try the Fox Brothers Burger and a side of the Frito pie for a unique beef brisket treat.

Henry's Midtown Tavern

32 10th St. Atlanta, GA 404-537-4477 Maureen Kalmanson, owner of

From hip local eateries to upscale restaurants and even our most popular chains, Atlanta’s dining scene is packed with options at all price levels — and all of our favorites come with a helping of gay. Italian eatery Campagnolo, opened Henry’s in June 2013 with a chefdriven menu of appetizers, pastas, sandwiches, entrée salads and des serts. Large front patio and a casual atmosphere.

Joe's on Juniper

1049 Juniper St. | Atlanta, GA 30309 404-875-6634 | www.joesatlanta. com/juniper Joe’s is a must-stop for travelers looking for a gay dining experience: sassy waiters, popular music and a wide variety beyond bar food. It’s THE patio to see and be seen on good weather days. Variety of programming including trivia and bingo during the week.

THE LIVINGSTON

659 Peachtree St. Atlanta, GA 30309 404-897-5000 www.livingstonatlanta.com The perfect place for cocktails before catching a show or for dinner afterwards. Located in the Georgian Terrace Hotel just across the street from the Fabulous Fox Theatre. Super gay-friendly.

559 Dutch Valley Road Atlanta, GA 30324 404-892-4111 www.concentricshospitality.com A perfect place to spend an evening noshing on ﬁne food. The appetizers (such as parmesan fries), wine and desserts don’t disappoint either.

Parker's on Ponce 116 East Ponce de Leon Ave. Decatur, GA 30030 404-924-2230 www.parkersonponce.com Located in the heart of historic downtown Decatur, Parker’s calls itself a steakhouse but it is much more. It’s hard to pass on the salmon, sea scallops and calamari here. Two local brothers have created an oasis of wood, warmth and wine.

RIA'S BLUEBIRD 421 Memorial Drive Atlanta, GA 30312 404-521-3737, www.riasbluebird.com Retro and tiny with an all-day breakfast menu chocked full of killer huevos and pancakes; queer Chef Ria Pell won the Food Network’s “Chopped” in 2012.

ROXX 1824 Cheshire Bridge Road Atlanta, GA 30324 | 404-892-4541 Known for its burgers and gay male crowd, Roxx serves up a wide variety and heaping dishes of gay atmosphere and friendliness.

Sotto Sotto

dishes like Tortelli di Michelangelo and Naked Ravioli. Italian-only wine list.

TEN ATLANTA 990 Piedmont Ave. | Atlanta, GA 30309 404-347-3360 | www.tenatlanta.com Billed as an upscale restaurant by day and bar by night, Ten Atlanta has quickly staked out its place in the city’s LGBT scene. Brunch and dinner menus include a variety of salads, sandwiches, burgers and entrees like hangar steak and fried Southern catﬁsh.

Yeah Burger 1017 North Highland Ave. Atlanta, GA 30306 404-437-7845 1168 Howell Mill Road Atlanta, GA 30318 404-496-4393 www.yeahburger.com All-natural, organic ingredients make this gourmet burger chain stand out; the extensive bar doesn’t hurt either. Build your own masterpiece starting with a chicken breast or beef, bison, turkey or veggie burger, then choose from an extensive list of toppings.

ZOCALO 187 10th St. Atlanta, GA 30309 404-249-7576 www.zocalocreativemex.com A favorite at the Midtown epicenter of 10th Street and Piedmont Avenue, Zocalo offers “Mexican comfort food,” margaritas and more.

313 N Highland Ave. Atlanta, GA 30307 404-523-6678 www.sottosottorestaurant.com A cozy authentic Italian place with

Photo via Facebook

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Event spotlight

SATURDAY, OCT. 12

BEST BETS CALENDAR

10.11.13

Publicity photo via Facebook

The official Women’s Party for Atlanta Pride is tonight at MSR, with Sara Bettencourt of “The Real L Word” and Halycon live in concert, beginning at 9 p.m., www.mysistersroom.com

SUNDAY, OCT. 13 The Atlanta Bucks edition of Bear Invasion with DJ Bryan Reyes begins at 7 p.m., Atlanta Heretic, www.atlantaheretic.com

10.11.13-10.24.13

FRIDAY -SUNDAY, OCT. 11 -13

Disney On Ice Presents “Let’s Celebrate!” at Philips Arena various times this weekend, www.philpsarena.com

Erica Jong publicity photo

Legendary writer Erica Jong celebrates 40 years of “Fear of Flying,” published in 1973, with a local appearance, presented by Charis and the Georgia Center for the Book at the Jimmy Carter Library of the Carter Center, 7 p.m., www.cartercenter.org

bout Tell us aBT event your LG ays to submit your

two w ur online There are lusion in o c in r fo t n it your LGBT eve ars. Subm ice. d n le a c t n Vvo and pri ww.theGA or@ w to fo in t even to edit ail details -m e r o m co e.com. theGAVoic

(Photo by Brent Rence Corcoran/RNZ Photography)

FRIDAY-SATURDAY, OCT. 11-12 Arts and crafts and authentic German food are part of Oktoberfest this weekend, from noon to 6, with beer and dinner until 8 p.m., at Stone Mountain Village, www.stonemountainvillage.com

FRIDAY, OCT. 11

Fourth Tuesday – the lesbian networking group – hosts Happy Hour at Mixx Atlanta from 6 – 9 p.m., www.mixxatlanta.com

FRIDAY, OCT. 11

The Official Atlanta Pride Kickoff after party is tonight, beginning at 7 p.m., with DJ Ed Bailey, Atlanta Jungle. www.jungleatl.com Dani Toro spins at the Atlanta Heretic, preceded by a bear bust at 7 p.m., at 10 p.m., Atlanta Heretic, www.hereticatlanta.com From gay director Brian Clowdus comes the new “The Sleepy Hollow Experience,” 8 p.m., Serenbe Playhouse, www.serenbeplayhouse.com “The Fab Five” – Morgan, Alyssa Edwards, Detox and Phoenix - present RuPride, 9 p.m., Burkharts, www.burkharts.com It’s Ladies’ Night Upstairs night, with special guest DJ Liz Owen, at 9 p.m., Blakes, www.blakesontheparkatlanta.com

MONDAY, OCT. 14

www.theGAVoice.com

The biggest women’s party of the year, the Heaven Pride Party with DJ Yvonne Monet, features aerial performances, sexy pole dancing, an art show and erotic Liquid Sky performances by Melissa Coffey, Marilyn Chen and more, from 9:30 p.m. to 2:30 a.m., Park Tavern in Piedmont Park, www.parktavern.com Kitty LeClaw’s Power Hour, with music by DJ Shane V, rocks it at 11 p.m. at Ten Atlanta, www.tenatlanta.com Club Rush presents the La Supermana/Latino Pride Fiesta, 2715 Buford Highway, Atlanta, GA 30324 TAB, “Atlanta’s hottest Pride After Party,” includes RuPaul drag queens Jujubee, Chad

The Official Atlanta Pride Kickoff party is tonight at the Georgia Aquarium, with DJs Vicki Powell and Chris Griswold, 7 – 11:30 p.m., www.georgiaaquarium.org

SOMETHING GAY EVERY DAY! Bookmark www.thegavoice.com to get your daily dose of local LGBT events.

Michaels, Mariah and also with DJs Jay McCracken and Nina Flowers. Ticket prices include ride on Atlanta’s Sky View Ferris Wheel. Doors open at 10 p.m., The Tabernacle, 152 Luckie St., Atlanta, GA 30303, tabernacleatl.com/

World: Life, Spirit, Magic!,” featuring 200 musicians from 32 different bands, with special guest Topher Payne, from 8 – 10 p.m. at the Ferst Center for the Arts, www.ferstcenter.gatech.edu

SATURDAY-SUNDAY, OCT. 12-13

Funny woman Wanda Sykes brings her sly humor to town tonight at 8 p.m., Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre, www.cobbenergycentre.com

Atlanta Pride weekend begins with activities all weekend, www.atlantapride.org

SATURDAY, OCT. 12

Stock up on trees at the Trees Atlanta Tree Sale Atlanta, 8 a.m. – 2 p.m., Trees Atlanta Kendeda Center, www.treesatlanta.org Out On Film presents an encore of one of their most popular films from this year’s festival, 12 p.m., Landmark Midtown Art Cinema, www.outonfilm.org As part of the Atlanta 2013 LGBA Conference, Atlanta Freedom Bands presents “Color Our

The W Midtown Atlanta hosts the Women’s Pride Party The L Lounge, from 9 p.m. to 2:30 p.m., W Midtown Atlanta, www.atlantamidtown.com Whiskey Park at the W Midtown Atlanta hosts a performance by Evah Destruction and also serves as the official release party for “Here Kitty Kitty” - the debut single from Sing for your Life Season 1 winner Josette , 9 p.m. – 2:30 p.m., W Midtown Atlanta, www.atlantamidtown.com

CALENDAR

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10.11.13

DJ Shane Stiel spins from 9 p.m. – 3 a.m., Atlanta Heretic, www.atlantaheretic.com

Event spotlight

DJ/director Chi Chi LaRue and a slew of adult film stars party at BJ Roosters, www.yelp.com/biz/bj-roosters-atlanta DJ Tony Moran spins tonight with Phoenix, Atlanta Jungle. www.jungleatl.com

SUNDAY, OCT. 12

Electric Six and The Sexual Side Effects join forces to play The Earl, 8 p.m., www.badearl.com The Official Atlanta Pride closing party with Alyson Calagna is tonight, beginning at 9 p.m. at Atlanta Jungle. www.jungleatl.com

TUESDAY, OCT. 15

Aaron Carter performs at 8:30 p.m. at Buckhead Theatre, thebuckheadtheatre.com A Tuesday night tradition – Showtunes at Amsterdam Atlanta, beginning at 9 p.m., www. amsterdamatlanta.com

WEDNESDAY, OCT. 16

The Impact of the Affordable Care Act on Small Business will be discussed at the WOW Wednesday Atlanta Gay and Lesbian Chamber of Commerce (AGLCC) event from 5:30 – 8 p.m., cial Palmer House Properties, Ferst www.palmerhouseproperties.com

THURSDAY, OCT. 17

Family Equality Council, the nation’s leading rgy advocate for LGBT parents, hosts a reception to learn more about efforts to achieve full equality for our families- especially in light of the Supreme Court’s decision this summer to strike down the n’s Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA), 5 - 7 pm, No 2:30 Mas Cantina, www.NoMasAtlanta.com AEN hosts its Third Thursday Networking at 6:30 p.m. at the Georgian Terrace Hotel, www.thegeorgianterrace.com

a and Charis Books &More and Cliterati pair up to Here present an inviting and fierce open mic & readr your ing series on the third Thursday of every month, m., hosted by the anarchic spoken word team of com Karen G and Theresa Davis, 7:30 p.m., www.charisbooksandmore.com

via Facebook

SATURDAY, OCT. 12

Boy George comes to Park Tavern as part of his new tour, singing “Do You Really Want to Hurt Me?” and more beginning at 7 p.m., www.prideatparktavern.com

THURSDAY, OCT 17 – 19

The first ever LGBT social media conference hosted by Salon website convenes in the ATL, with a number of national speakers and presenters, www.salonlgbtq.com

FRIDAY, OCT. 18

Support a great cause at the Pink Party for breast cancer, 10 – 11 p.m. at Atlanta Eagle, www.atlantaeagle.com

SATURDAY, OCT 19

The support group “LGBT Today,” sponsored by ASCORG, meets on Saturdays at 4:30 p.m. at First MCC Community Center, www.firstmcc.com SAGE Atlanta hosts a Lesbians 50+ plus potluck, 6 – 8 p.m., Phillip Rush Center, www.rushcenteratl.org Atlanta Contemporary Art Center brings back Art Party: Noirish, a multi-media event with art and entertainment, 7 p.m. – midnight, www.thecontemporary.org/artparty/ Rod Stewart sings his greatest hits at 7:30 p.m. at Philips Arena as part of his “Live the Life” tour with Steve Winwood joining him, www.philipsarena.com Get your rock groove on at Mary-oke!, tonight at Mary’s, www.marysatlanta.com Every Saturday, Angelica Paige leads Midnight Madness at 10th & Piedmont, www.communitashospitality.com/10th-and-piedmont

SUNDAY, OCT. 20

Miss USA 2012 and HIV/AIDS Activist Nana Meriwether joins “American Idol finalist” RJ Helton for the 23rd annual AIDS Walk at Piedmont Park, www.aidswalkatlanta.com

Sunday evenings are Super Star Sundays – hosted by Phoenix - at the new Lips, with the show getting started at 8 p.m., www.lipsatl.com

TUESDAY, OCT 15 The gay-friendly Noah and the Whale from England comes to Atlanta to play Variety Playhouse at 8 p.m., www.variety-playhouse.com

On October 20 from 5 to 6 p.m., add a little pink to your plank with Roots Juices, lululemon athletica, Pink Heals Foundation and W Atlanta - Buckhead at W ThinksPink: Core for a Cure. Tickets are $10 and include a one hour yoga session and sips from Roots Juices. Purchase your tickets by visiting www.thinkspinkyoga.eventbrite.com Providing a place for entertainers new to the stage, Friends Neighborhood Bar presents the New Faces Talent Contest. Produced by Mama Regina Simms, and starring Aqualencia Litre’, New Faces welcomes performers from any genre from singing and dancing to female impersonation. 9 p.m. www.friendsonponce-atl.com

SATURDAY, OCT. 19

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Festival on Ponce’s fall arts and crafts festival is this weekend at Olmsted Linear Park, www.festivalonponce.com

TUESDAY, OCT. 22

LGBT friendly recording artist Jesse Ware brings her melancholy vocals to Center Stage tonight beginning at 8 p.m., www.centerstage-atlanta.com/shows

THURSDAY, OCT. 24

The Restorative Justice Center of Atlanta host the first annual “Diamond on the Half Shell” Benefit at the Atlanta City Hall Atrium from 6 - 9 p.m., with actress and LGBT ally Jasmine Guy, www.restorativejusticecenter.org

FRIDAY-SUNDAY OCT. 25 - 27

Join Amnesty International USA’s 2013 Southern Regional Conference in coming together to hear inspiring speakers, participate in informative workshops. Courtyard Marriott Decatur, www.amnestyusa.org/events/regionalconferences/southern-regional-conference

Publicity photo

Adult film star Tommy Defendi makes an appearance at Ten Atlanta, 11:30 p.m., www. tenatlanta.com

Publicity photo

DJ Tony Moran is in the house for Atlanta’s Best Dance Party- Pride Edition, 9 p.m. - 3 a.m., Jungle Atlanta, www.jungleatl.com Southern Bears Bar Night out is tonight at 11 p.m. at the Atlanta Eagle, www.atlantaeagle.com

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SATURDAY, OCT. 19

Pop singer, songwriter and musician Todd Carey kicks off his “8 Bit Heartbeat” U.S. tour with a headlining show tonight at 8 p.m. at Atlanta’s Smith’s Olde Bar, www.smithsoldebar.com

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10.11.13

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10.11.13

PRIDE

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Pop diva Taylor Dayne takes on Atlanta Pride Music legend ‘Proves Her Love’ for her LGBT fans

PERFORMERS

by DAVID AARON MOORE Dance and pop music vocalist Taylor Dayne ﬁrst appeared on the American music scene with the release of her hit single “Tell It To My Heart,” which made it to the number seven spot on the Billboard Hot 100 in late 1987. But that wasn’t where her story began. She was born in New York in 1962 as Leslie Wunderman, and would later release her ﬁrst musical efforts under the name Les Lee. While those songs didn’t fare so well, they did lead her to a contract with Arista Records, which eventually catapulted her to stardom with other songs after “Tell It To My Heart” that shot straight to the top of multiple charts: “Prove Your Love,” “Don’t Rush Me,” “With Every Beat of My Heart” and “Love Will Lead You Back,”(which made it to the number one position on the Billboard Hot 100) were among the 18 songs that received substantial air and club play. After a quick shot to major stardom, Dayne’s life took a different turn. The world of music had changed, and the danceable pop sound that had made her so famous had fallen out of vogue, with listeners gravitating towards a more earthy rock music sound. While Dayne’s mainstream fan base may have stepped back a few degrees, her gay fans have always stood by her, loyal to her powerhouse vocals and easily danceable tunes. “I’ve always loved gay audiences,” she tells GAVO matter-of-factly. “They like to have a good time. They appreciate your efforts and they stick by you.” But her dedication to the LGBT community doesn’t end there: she performed at the Gay Games in Germany in 2010, singing the song “Facing a Miracle” to a crowd of more than 25,000. “That was an amazing experience,” she recalls. “People from all over the world. Incredible athletes. The whole thing was something I’ll remember forever…you can actually see it if you want…it’s on youtube.”

DETAILS Taylor Dayne headlines Atlanta Pride Saturday, Sept. 12, Coca-Cola Stage Piedmont Park

Taylor Dayne in Adam Bouska’s No H8 campaign: ‘I just hope … it helped in some way.’ (Right) The song that started it all: a video shot from ‘Tell It To My Heart.’

She also appeared in Adam Bouska’s No H8 campaign, in an effort to show her support to prevent bullying and violence towards gay people. “I felt it was important to share that, because it wasn’t just a brief period. “It went on for years. That kind of stuff makes you scared to go to school, makes you scared to participate in anything. I’m sure everyone has a story they can relate to that kind of experience. I just hope … it helped some way.” Dayne’s love for her gay friends and fans is evident – she’s made a number of appearances at LGBT pride festivals in recent years. In a recent interview with The Virginian-Pilot, she was happy to point to her gay fans as the most enjoyable audiences she’s ever played for. “I’m not doing clubs anymore, mostly Pride events, which are more joyful and celebratory,” Dayne said. “It’s not kids clubbin’ in the middle of the night. I see real communities coming

together now. They’re giving back so much. As long as there’s an audience, it’s all good.” Even though many years have passed since Dayne’s biggest success in mainstream pop music, she’s always maintained a regular audience attendance from her gay fans. She reportedly plays an average of 150 shows a year, which include private parties and international appearances. Here at home, she remains a big draw at Pride events, with recent performances at gay prides in New York, Charlotte and Boston. She recently picked up roots from New York and made the move to Los Angeles. “I’m out here with my kids, and we’re having the house remodeled,” she says with a slight chuckle. “It’s a very busy time of year,” she says. “I’m trying to play mom, homemaker and

keep up with my career. It can be tough, but I’m used to it.” Speaking of tough, Dayne says she’s faced some challenges as a single mom, and she easily equates them to the struggles the LGBT community has dealt with in recent struggles over same-sex marriage issues. “For me, it’s about family. All families need to have that protection in place to make sure they are safe and taken care of, no matter if they’re straight or gay. And of course, everybody has the right to love and share a life with whoever they want and we all should be entitled to those same beneﬁts, those same rights.” In addition to her concert performances, she’s been appearing on Broadway as the character Grizzabella in the decades long-running “Cats” and now wants to try her hand at some more acting. “I’ve been out making the rounds and looking in to what I might be able to do in television. The world’s a different place now and there are so many different opportunities.” Although Dayne won’t give any speciﬁcs, it seems likely she’s looking to follow in the footsteps of some of her musical contemporaries like Cyndi Lauper or The GoGo’s Jane Wiedlin and try her hand at a reality series. Her career plans seem a bit mysterious at this point – but one thing’s for sure – she’s not throwing in the towel anytime soon. “Are you kidding me?” She laughs. “I’ve still got way too much I want to do. I’m nowhere near being done yet.”

PRIDE

www.theGAVoice.com

Atlanta recognized as top gay-friendly travel destination Large LGBT community, cultural celebrations make for welcoming environment by VICTORIA LIGHTFOOT/ATLANTA CVB Atlanta continues to receive national recognition as a top U.S. gay travel destination. In August, Gaytravel.com listed Atlanta as one of the “Top 10 Gayest Cities in the South.” In June, Passport Magazine recognized Atlanta as a “Great Destination for Gay Families,” citing venues like the Georgia Aquarium, Stone Mountain Park and the Center for Puppetry Arts as ideal stops on a visiting family’s itinerary. “Atlanta continues to receive recognition as the world’s most welcoming city,” said William Pate, president and CEO, Atlanta Convention & Visitors Bureau. “The LGBT community is a very important travel segment for our city, and we offer a variety of events and promotions to encourage LGBT travelers to make a visit to Atlanta.” Atlanta, which recently became a Silver Global Partner of the International Gay & Lesbian Travel Association, hosts a number of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) events throughout the year. The city’s Atlanta Pride Festival is the largest pride festival in the southeast,

(Photo by Chuck Koehler)

and provides an outlet for celebration while promoting equality. The festival draws more than 200,000 people to Atlanta, and serves as the centerpiece of the Atlanta Pride Committee’s activism efforts. Held over Labor Day weekend, the recent Atlanta Black Pride Festival provides a platform for African-American LGBT community members to gather for music, ﬁlm and parties throughout Midtown. The Out On Film Festival features eight days of cinematic showings that document the journeys of the gay community. The East Point Possums Show is a large, outdoor drag show that raises funds for charity by celebrating self-expression. Visit www.gay-atlanta.com for more gayfriendly Atlanta travel deals and ideas, including attractions, restaurants, nightlife and more.

Campus Pride comes to ATL Organization specifically recruiting LGBT students by REBBY KERN ATLANTA, GA – For the first time ever, the LGBT college-focused group Campus Pride will come to Atlanta to host one of its national college fairs, specifically for students. The fair will be held in conjunction with the Atlanta Pride Festival on Saturday, October 12 from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. on festival grounds in Piedmont Park. The fair is free and open to the public and will feature colleges and universities from across the country, as well as resources for financial aid, scholarships and ACT/SAT testing services. “Accessibility to higher education for LGBT youth should be a number one priority, especially in the South. Research tells us that LGBT youth are at higher-risk when it comes to harassment and safety in secondary education, so we need to be sure that

they ﬁnd the right college for post-secondary education,” said Shane Windmeyer, Executive Director of Campus Pride, “The colleges at this fair are actively providing services to LGBT students and want students who are out and part of the campus community.” The organization’s presentation will include several representatives from local, regional and national colleges and universities to allow LGBT students to interact with campus representatives and ask questions. Campus Pride is the leading national educational organization for student leaders Now in its sixth year, it is the only organization of its kind. Upcoming stops include Chicago, Boston, Los Angeles (Oct. 19), and New York City (Nov. 1). The fairs are held in tandem with the Campus Pride Index, the nation’s most comprehensive benchmarking tool for colleges and universities seeking to create safer and more inclusive environments for LGBT students. For more information on Campus Pride, the Campus Pride Index, the College Fair Program or other Campus Pride projects and services, visit www.campuspride.org.

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ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

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Pride performer profile: Ricky Simone She’s a hip hop, lesbian human rights activist with a mission By PAMELA PERRY Ricky Simone is a hip hop, lesbian human rights activist. She performs hip hop music and poetry with thought-provoking content intending to inspire love and the liberation of oppressed communities. “I grew up in Michigan in a poor family,” Simone says. “I knew I wanted a different life. I felt a rumbling in my soul, wondering why some people have things and others don’t.” Ricky got into activism at the University of Detroit Mercy. She was the first person in her family to go to college. On campus, she became president of the black student LGBT group. The campus was not welcoming to the group, but with the help of the Triangle Foundation (now known as Equality Michigan), the organization was able to continue. Simone got her master’s degree in social work at the University of Michigan and began to explore social injustice as a poet and writer. “I wasn’t courageous enough to get into music until I got to Athens, Ga.,” she relates. “I had to get this music out of me, and I did my first song in 2011. “I do hip hop but without the noise or disrespectful messages. My music is positive and uplifting, motivational. My mission is to liberate the LGBT community.” Simone says she seeks a partnership between the LGBT and other oppressed communities. Her concerns include economic justice, immigration issues, women’s issues and racial injustice. Her advice to young people coming to terms with their sexuality is, “It does get better. There are a lot of sources of love and empowerment out there. Don’t try to change for PERFO anyone. Love yourself; don’t internalize the hate. Instead, work hard to change hateful attitudes.” Although she realizes that there is quite a way still to go in the battle against prejudice, Simone is optimistic. “I think the tide’s changing,” she says. “Love is the new normal. I think there really

(Publicity photo)

DETAILS Ricky Simone Oct. 12 2:15, Bud Light Stage

has been a shift in the way people think and hate is becoming a thing of the past. Of course, there are people out there who are holding on to it like it’s their last breath. But more people are getting tired of hating and getting over it. Hate is out of date.” She points out that different groups such as African Americans and Jews have been singled out for prejudice through the years, with time dimming some of the harsh edges of judgmental attitudes. “I think it’s finally our turn to experience some positive energy,” she says. Among her many community activities, Simone has been involved in the campaign to implement RMERS domestic partnership benefits throughout the University System of Georgia. Although UGA adopted a resolution to provide soft benefits in 2012, a system-wide full benefit program has yet to be enacted. “I’m happy and excited about performing at Pride,” she says. “It will be the biggest stage I’ve ever worked on.”

“My music is positive and uplifting, motivational. My mission is to liberate the LGBT community.” —Ricky Simone

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ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

‘All-American’ sensation: Interview with Steve Grand Openly gay singer catches the attention of country music By GREGG SHAPIRO In these days of instant internet celebrity, overnight sensations are a dime a dozen. But Chicago-based gay singer/songwriter Steve Grand seems to be an exception with his song “All-American Boy” and its accompanying video. Sure, he’s breathtaking to look at and that doesn’t hurt. He’s even put in time as a model. More than just a pretty face and amazing body, Grand is a musician with a message. Striking a chord across boundaries, Grand’s song and video of unrequited love, set to an unlikely country music beat, has found a devoted audience and earned more than a million views on YouTube. On the (boot)heels of this viral video, Grand has received attention and coverage from a variety of sources, including The Hufﬁngton Post, Good Morning America and The Los Angeles Times, not to mention numerous LGBT websites and publications. A proudly gay voice for his generation and others, Grand is still getting used to being in the spotlight. I spoke with him about the experience, his music and his future during the summer of 2013.

PERFORMERS

10.11.13

r o l CoWorld Atlanta Freedom Bands present

Life,

GA VOICE | 47

Featuring the 200+ musicians of the Lesbian and Gay Band Association and the world premiere of a new work by Atlanta composer Tim Jansa

OuSrpirit, & Magic!

Saturday October 12 8 PM

Ferst Center for the Arts at Georgia Tech 349 Ferst Drive NW, Atlanta 30322 Tickets: $30 general, $15 seniors, $10 students Free Parking Information & Tickets:

www.AtlantaFreedomBands.com

Steve Grand: ‘I never set out to write a country song.’ (Publicity photo)

I would go through different phases as a kid, as we all do and I would get obsessed and driven to be creative. Whenever I would get into something I would want to replicate it, express it in my own way out of cardboard. My parents picked up on it and they got us this old, shitty upright piano and we all started taking lessons. I was the one that was really into it, especially the piano. I took music classes in high school.

Steve, how does it feel to be performing around the country live? More than anything, I’m just grateful my [music] has reached people that it has meaning for. People that feel the same way I felt and that it resonates with people emotionally. That’s all I hoped DETAILS for. That’s all you can hope for as Did you give piano recitals? Steve Grand a songwriter, as one who makes At a local church, but it wasn’t Oct. 12, 3:45 p.m. music and performs. I certainly a contest and I wasn’t being evaluCoca-Cola stage hope that this is just the very ated by someone from a university beginning, the tip of the iceberg, or something. My teacher was a of a career. Because that’s what I stay-at-home mom, a very talented got into this to do, not to be a ﬂash in the pan. woman. I didn’t really understand music theTo continue to create good music that reso- ory until I was a teenager and then everything nates with people emotionally. started to click. When I started to play guitar and started to Is there anything in your background listen to rock music, there was a guitar teachor training as an artist and performer that er who really helped develop my ear and help prepared you for this moment? me listen to things and feel things out. I feel I started taking piano when I was six years like I have a really good balance of traditional, old. When I was four I started making models classical training balanced with playing by of pianos out of cardboard. I was so fascinated ear. I can read charts and sight read to some even with just the aesthetic of a piano. I was degree and I also know what chords are being obsessed with Schroeder, from Charlie Brown, and his piano. Please see GRAND on Page 49

photo by Tom Fahey

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With Special Guest Host

Topher Payne Playwright and Author

Lloyd E. Russell Foundation

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ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

10.11.13

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Pride performer profile: Debby Holiday Musician and vocalist says to LGBT community: ‘You are all beautiful beings’ by PAMELA PERRY Debby Holiday, who grew up in Los Angeles, is an American singer/songwriter whose music is a mixture of soul and rock. Her father was musician and songwriter Jimmy Holiday (1934-1987), who co-wrote “Put a Little Love in Your Heart” and other hits. Debby has toured with Joe Walsh, Rod Stewart and Kiss. She sings the theme song “Dig Deep” for the now canceled TV drama “Dirt” that starred Courtney Cox. She is also featured on the song “Universal Soldier” by John Waite. She’s had 11 Consecutive Billboard Top 20 Dance Singles. She released “Dive 2013” and “Fantasy” with DJ/Producer Jerome Farley earlier this year. She is currently producing music for the Upcoming Del Shores Film “Southern Baptist Sissies.” In 2012, Holiday appeared in the film “Blues for Willadean,” which also featured Academy Award Winner Octavia Spencer, who won the award for Best Supporting Actress for her role in the movie “The Help.” She performs Saturday at 6:25 p.m. on the Coca-Cola stage. GA Voice spoke with her before her Atlanta appearance. Your father was a musician, so I guess you were into music at an early age? Actually, I fought against it. I started studying dance when I was four. But when I got my own guitar at 13, I turned toward music. Your anti-bullying video, “Key to Your Soul,” which you co-wrote with Jeff Fedak and John Le Page, is a very powerful piece. This is clearly an important issue for you. My main issue is equality and respect for anyone who is different. I’m also a big supporter of marriage equality. You seem to have accomplished a lot during your career. Did you have any struggles? The music part is easy, but funding your projects can be a challenge. I was with Warner Brothers for four years, during which time I worked with so many amazing people like Jeffrey Steele, Bobby Huff, Tommy Sims, Clif Magness, Marti Frederiksen and Billy Steinberg. At the moment, I’ve got a project on Kickstarter in hopes of funding my next album, “Free2B.” And besides you father, who were some of your musical influences?

Kick the Robot from Athens, Ga.. (Publicity photo)

Pride 2013 boasts two stages, exciting roster of performers Debby Holiday has had 11 Consecutive Billboard Top 20 Dance Singles. (Publicity photo)

DETAILS Debby Holiday performs live on the Coca-Cola stage at Atlanta Pride on Saturday Oct. 12 at 6:25 p.m.

David Bowie, Prince, Queen, Aretha Franklin, AC/DC, Ray Charles, Led Zep, Dolly Parton, Heart, Billie Holiday, Radiohead, The Stones, Stevie Wonder, Bette Midler, Live, Lenny Kravitz. What they all have in common is passion, unique artistry, and leaving it all on the stage with style and raw electrifying emotion. These are just a few of the artists who shaped my musical world. Genre never mattered. So, it makes sense that I grew up singing heavier rock and have ended up also loving the world of dance music. Atlanta will welcome you to Pride this week. What advice would you give young people coming to terms with their sexual identity? More people are starting to say you belong. I think you should accept that and move on. Don’t let other people’s negativity get you down. There’s an entire community out there saying that you are all beautiful beings. Self loathing is not an option.

PERFORMERS

What advice, if any, would you have for upand-coming musicians? Hear your own voice, just hear your own voice.

by PAMELA PERRY “I am excited for the variety these artists will bring to our festival,” said Buck Cooke, executive director of Atlanta Pride in a press release. “We have acts ranging from country to dance, hip-hop to rock, and everything in between. In addition to the different types of music, I am thrilled about the artists themselves. We have some old favorites, some upand-coming talent, and some Atlanta natives to shine onstage.” Cooke, continued, “While some of these acts have performed in Atlanta many times, a few will be making their Atlanta debut on our stage. It is exciting to think that Atlanta Pride is helping to introduce talented artists to not only the LGBTQ and allied community who will be at our festival, but we’re introducing them to our city as well.” Below is a list of the complete 2013 Atlanta Pride Entertainment line-up. Please note that all talent and times are subject to change without notice.

PRIDE PERMFORMERS Saturday on the Bud Light Stage: Youth Block Brian Sharp Ricky Simone Liquid Holly Elle Kick the Robot Monica Mason DJ Ree de la Vega

Saturday on the Coca-Cola Stage: Maria Gabriella Band Jen Foster Steve Grand Symphony Crack Orchestra A Great Big World Debby Holiday Bonnie McKee Taylor Dayne

Sunday on the Bud Light Stage: Yoeshi Roberts & Acoustic Encouragement Unbreakable Bloodline Neil Cribbs Sunday on the Coca-Cola Stage: The Michel Jons Band Aiden Sonia Leigh The Starlight Cabaret

Above, Monica Mason and Jen Foster. (Publicity photos)

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

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10.11.13

GA VOICE | 49

Gay country country crooner plays Atlanta Pride GRAND, continued from Page 47 played when I listen to a song on the radio. Because “All-American Boy” has a touch of twang, the song is being pigeonholed as country and even led to you receiving a favorable mention on a Nashville website. But being an openly gay musician in Music City can still be risky as we saw when Chely Wright came out as a lesbian. Do you have any thoughts about that? I never set out to write a country song. I would never dismiss (that) if it sounds like country to some people. That’s ﬁne. At the heart of it country music is good storytelling and “All-American Boy” is a story. So I think that’s where that comes from. I think also the imagery in the video leads people to give it that title. Even if I am labeled as a country singer, which isn’t a label I gave myself, I certainly wouldn’t want to take away anything from the brave men and women who came before me.

I was always crushing on my best friends. The song isn’t about anyone specific. It’s the accumulation of experiences. I definitely knew the story, as far as the video goes, all the imagery and things like that. I had a very particular vision in mind. I think all that was influenced by everything I’ve been through, growing up and having this happen to me over and over again. Because of your religious upbringing and

what you went through with your family and ex-gay therapy you are being looked up to as a symbol of strength and overcoming the odds. What does that mean to you? It’s very ﬂattering to be a symbol of anything like that. To some degree I feel like, wow, I can’t live up to that [laughs]. Don’t put me in a position to be a role model. But the story is true. I don’t want to let people down. I got into this to play music as a way to express myself and tell stories. My focus now is not letting the

people who put their trust in me down and being there for them. What is the next step for you professionally? I’m trying to build a team now because this is a little bigger than one or two people can handle. Trying to put together team of people who know, respect and can see my vision and can help point me in the right direction so that I’m staying true to myself and true to my art.

Just miles east of Atlanta

Have you written and recorded any other songs? Yes. I’ve been writing since age 11, so I have lots of music that I’ve written. I’ve been recording for a long time, too. I’m always changing my mind and I obsess over certain parts. Sometimes I’ll do a vocal take 300 times, so things take me kind of a while. But I do have a lot of songs recorded. From the response I got here, it’s obviously inspired me and inﬂuenced what will come next.

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You mentioned the impact that the song has had. For a lot of LGBT folks, “All-American Boy” is instantly relatable because everyone has had the experience of being attracted to or falling love with someone straight or unattainable. How personal is that experience for you? Wow! What a good question. We’ve all been there, and I mean gay, straight, bi, whoever you are. We’ve all fallen for someone that we can’t have, but it especially rings true in the speciﬁc story for LGBT people. It is the story of my life since I was 13. I was always crushing on the straight guy. I think it’s always been there because I grew up in a place where gay people weren’t visible.

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Are you being inundated with offers from record labels and if so, are you taking them under consideration or would you prefer to remain an independent artist? I deﬁnitely don’t want to close the door to any opportunities or offers at this point. So I’m keeping an open mind. I believe that we’re in a day and age where we can do it independently. There are pros and cons on both sides. You have to consider who you are as an artist, what you want to be and what kind of impact you want to have.

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THE 2013-2014 SEASON

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ARTS & ENTRTAINMENT

10.11.13

THEATER BY JIM FARMER

From the playwright of Wolves and Octopus

Horseman rides again

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Major funding for this organization is provided by the Fulton County Board of Commissioners under the guidance of the Fulton County Arts Council. This program is supported in part by the Georgia Council for the Arts through appropriations from the Georgia General Assembly. GCA is a Partner Agency of the National Endowment for the Arts. This program is supported in part by the City of Atlanta Office of Cultural Affairs.

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9/26/13 10:31 PM

‘The Sleepy Hollow Experience’ company’s ﬁrst fall presentation For a theater company that is not used to producing outside of the summer, Serenbe Playhouse is offering a doozy of a fall time show. Gay artistic director Brian Crowdus has just opened his “The Sleepy Hollow Experience” at the company. Normally Clowdus schedules a three show season in the summer, but he felt there was buzz around his 2013 schedule. With that momentum, he talked to his board of directors and felt the timing was right for the company’s ﬁrst fall production. (His goal ultimately, he admits, is to produce year-round.) He had always wanted to use the Serenbe Stables as part of a production and it all came together with “The Sleepy Hollow Experience,” with Clowdus directing. Adpated by Kathryn Schultz Miller, this production is based on the folk tale by Washington Irving and tells the tale of Ichabod Crane (Chris Mayers,) a schoolteacher who comes to the town of Sleepy Hollow and becomes infatuated with Katrina Van Tassel, before he has a fateful encounter one evening with the Headless Horseman. Clowdus calls his version a cross between a haunted house and a play, with a quirky aesthetic. “It’s not a new version,” he says. “This is a retelling with an old but modern feel.” As a director, he is employing both some live music and some pre-recorded music as well to give the piece atmosphere. As always, his production will be an event. It will be a walking production, save for a middle sequence where patrons can dance and sing at a party, but the production allows a few opportunities to sit along the way. Without even trying, the stables have become central characters. “The stables themselves are very creepy, and naturally scary,” he says. The director will be using horses as part of the show— at least two — and will have a traditional Headless Horseman. Luckily, he is achieving that effect mostly through costuming — no actors will be decapitated. Clowdus has been asked by parents if the new production is appropriate for kids and is leaving it up to them to decide. There is no blood and guts, nor any adult content, but there are chills aplenty. “Kids who like spooky movies will like it — it’s not ‘Texas Chainsaw Massacre’,” he says. After the Halloween night performance, a special Halloween Monster Mash party will take place and the 2014 Serenbe season will be

Director Jim Clowdus on ‘Sleepy Hollow’: ‘There’s some eye candy, and queens like to scream and be scared.’ (Publicity photo)

DETAILS WWW.SERENBEPLAYHOUSE.COM “The Sleepy Hollow Experience” Through October 31 Serenbe Playhouse 9110 Selborne Lane Suite 210, Chattahoochee Hills, GA 30268

announced. Although there is no specific queer content, the director thinks LGBT audiences will like this. “There’s some eye candy, and queens like to scream and be scared,” he laughs. Clowdus formed Serenbe back in 2009 but wasn’t living here full-time. He was finishing up master’s work at the University of South Carolina for the first two years of the company. He later moved to the area and divides his time between an apartment in Atlanta and a place in Serenbe, which is known as an artist’s colony. He has noticed that a lot of gay people have moved to the area of late, especially couples. Clowdus has had a dream year — Serenbe presented the acclaimed children’s play “Velveteen Rabbit,” the drama “A Walk in the Woods” and an excellent version of “Hair” this summer. He has also found time to freelance as a director, just finishing staging the comedy “Walter Cronkite is Dead” at Aurora Theatre. Yet the fall season hasn’t been without some controversy — “Hair” was expected to contend for major awards at the annual Suzi Bass awards but it was largely ignored, as was another musical he starred in at Fabrefaction Theatre, “Assassins.” He was stung a bit by the exclusions but has responded by quickly getting back to work. He’s been encouraged that ticket pre-sales for “The Sleepy Hollow Experience” have been higher than any other Serenbe production so far.

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Sitcom is a welcome change for Justina Machado Actress stars in new series ‘Welcome to the Family’ by GREGG SHAPIRO Even if you don’t know Justina Machado by name, you probably recognize her as Vanessa from “Six Feet Under” or Stephanie from “Private Practice.” Maybe you recently say her on the “The Fosters,” the series about the lesbian foster moms or as Pedro Zamora’s sister Milly in the biopic Pedro. Justina, you are playing Lisette in the new NBC sitcom Welcome to The Family. What was it about that character that made you want to portray her? I didn’t read the script, I read the sides (condensed script) first. I thought it was amazing. She was funny. It also had to do with her being a well-written character. I like that. It just fit well. I read it and I automatically got it, I understood it. This is the person I want to play. It was just that simple Lisette isn’t just a mother, she’s also about to become a grandmother, and a young one at that. How are your maternal instincts? I don’t have maternal instincts. I don’t have any kids [laughs]. I am the oldest of five children. There’s quite an age gap. With one of my brothers there is only a year. But with my sister there is 14 years. I also have twin brothers and there are 17 years between us. I went to Lane Tech High School (in Chicago). When I was a senior my mother gave birth to the twins. I used to come home after school and relieve my mom so that she could go to work. I waited until my stepdad came home from work and he would take over. I loved it. I’ve always loved taking care of little babies. I don’t have so much patience now that I’m older [laughs]. But I loved it when I was younger. Do you think Lisette would feel differently about the situation if it was her daughter who

Debby Holiday has had 11 Consecutive Billboard Top 20 Dance Singles. (Publicity photo)

was pregnant as opposed to her son being the father? Wow, that’s a really good question. I would hope that it wouldn’t be any different because, male or female, they’re still 18 years old. You still worry about the rest of their life ahead of them. I’m trying not to put myself in it (the answer) and think of what Lisette would do. I know how Justina would feel but I’m thinking that Lisette would be for it and would feel the same way, the way she is with Junior. This is what the situation

is, this is what you’ve chosen to do, I can’t do anything about that, you’re 18 years old, she’s 18 years old, so what I have to do now is support the both of you. I’m thinking that’s what she would do. Speaking of dramas, you were recently seen on the show The Fosters, which features a pair of lesbian moms raising foster kids. A show such as that has a large viewership within the LGBT community and I was wondering if, as an actress who has appeared in

movies, on TV, and on Broadway, if you were aware of a queer fan-base. When I was doing Six Feet Under, I was very aware. I am super excited and proud of it. One of my brothers is gay. It’s really important for me to do everything for that. That’s why I did The Fosters. That show is amazing. It’s freaking brilliant and beautiful. Anything for the LGB T community, I’ll do it. I’m also really proud that I have a fan base. What’s a better fan base than gay men, are you kidding me [laughs]? And gay women!

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AID Atlanta gears up for annual AIDS Walk

Event expected to attract record crowd On Sunday, October 20, Piedmont Park will host AID Atlanta’s 23rd annual AIDS Walk & 5K Run. The event has grown to be the largest AIDS-related fundraising event in the Southeast. In 2012 alone, the walk had an estimated 10,000 participants and raised more than $940,000 for eight area AIDS Service Organizations. “AID Atlanta is excited to embark on our annual AIDS Walk Atlanta & 5K Run campaign,” says Cathy Woolard, Interim Executive Director of AID Atlanta. “The event brings a diverse group together in support of those living with HIV/ AIDS, education and prevention to reduce new infections and a forum to remember those we have lost to the disease. We are most grateful to those who raise funds to support the campaign; the funds make it possible for us to continue our necessary work in metro Atlanta where the rate of HIV infection continues to rise.” The yearly event benefits thousands of people living with HIV/AIDS. Since its inception, the AIDS Walk Atlanta and the later added 5k Run has increased awareness of HIV/AIDS throughout the community and attracts approximately 10,000 participants each year. AID Atlanta and the seven participating agencies, who benefit from the annual fundraising event, provide treatment and medications, prevention education, meals, hospice, mental health services, child care, substance abuse counseling, pastoral care, and clinical research to help thousands of our families, neighbors and friends living with, affected by, and at risk for HIV/AIDS in Atlanta. As the event has continued to grow over the years it has attracted numerous celebrity endorsements, and this year is no different. First to come onboard this time around was former Miss USA 2012 Nana Meriwether, who is an active advocate for HIV/AIDS programs through her organization The Meriwether Foundation, which provides nutrition, education, prevention, counseling and testing in South Africa. Meriwether will welcome the crowd during the opening ceremony. “I am excited to be part of the event, in an effort to change the future of HIV/AIDS,” says Meriwether. “HIV/AIDS affects so many lives, and I am happy to encourage others to raise critical funds for AIDS service organizations throughout the Atlanta area. Also joining the cause is American Idol finalist RJ Helton, an Atlanta native, who rose quickly to fame after finishing in the Top 5 during American Idol Season One. “I walk for the millions of men women

Says former American Idol finalist RJ Helton: ‘I walk for the millions of men women and children living with HIV and AIDS … and for the millions of people this disease has already taken.’ (Publicity photo via Facebook)

and children living with HIV and AIDS,” says Helton.”And for the millions of people this disease has already taken. I walk for the friends and families who mourn every day, and for the millions of people who don’t have access or the resources to the life saving medications they so critically need. I walk because I care and I walk because I believe we can ﬁnd a cure.” Helton is an Atlanta native, who captured national attention for his performance on the show, and for his decision to come out publicly as a gay man in 2006, despite the fact his following was largely a Christian gospel musicbased audience. SIRIUS radio show host Larry Flick asked the young performer why he was no longer performing gospel music, despite his large fan base. “I can have a faith but can’t be who I want to be. So a lot of it was just personal things I needed to overcome and just be proud of who I was. Just because I am gay does not mean I can’t love God.” Helton will perform during the opening ceremony. It’s still not too late to register for the 2013 AIDS Walk Atlanta & 5K Run. For more information visit www.aidswalkatlanta.com or call (404) 876-WALK (9255). Meriwether is adamant about the need for community participation in AIDS Walk Atlanta & 5K Run. ”According to the Georgia Department of Community Health,” she explains, “Georgia is ranked sixth in the nation for new HIV infections. This disease is something that truly affects everyone.” For more information, visit www.aidswalkatlanta.com

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OPINION

GA VOICES OUR OPINION EDITOR'S NOTE

Welcome to Atlanta By DAVID AARON MOORE If you’re a resident, get ready for the big weekend of fun you know Pride can be. If you’re visiting from elsewhere, welcome to the LGBT mecca of the south. In addition to events planned by Pride like the kick-off party at the Georgia Aquarium, the legendary parade, the vendor fair and an endless list of performers guaranteed to keep everyone entertained, there’s the city itself: full of adventure, history, entertainment and culture unlike anywhere else you’ll ﬁnd in the country. Our annual Pride issue, the year’s largest, marks my third as the new editor of Georgia Voice. As I indicated in an earlier note and as GAVO Managing Partner Chris Cash mentioned in a story published in late October, I share a history with some staff members of Georgia Voice when we worked together at the former Southern Voice and even further back when I worked as a studio coordinator at a public access television station and the A&E editor of the now de-

funct Etcetera Magazine. My point is – I go back. Perhaps a little further than I care to admit, but far enough that I can recall a time in 1990 when Atlanta’s annual Pride celebration was a smallish event for a city of its size – attracting a crowd of somewhere between 3000-5000. The following year a new crew of people threw their hats into the ring, becoming involved with the event and – quite likely – changing the course of Atlanta Pride history. Many names and faces come to mind: Barbara Snell, Padraig McManus McLaughlin, Samantha Claar, Lynn Cauthren, Cherry Hussein, and Jack Pelham, among countless others. Pelham’s involvement was particularly signiﬁcant. As the media liaison, he reached out directly to LGBT publications and organizations throughout the south, alerting the region to the 1991 summer Pride celebration. What he and others involved that year accomplished was nothing short of miraculous: an event that had once been relatively low key exploded from approximately 5,000 to 20,000. I’m proud to say I was part of it in a small way. I covered it for the gay and straight press

at the time, and I was on hand to witness the mind-boggling numbers of people pouring into the park following the Pride’s largest parade to date. It had jumped leaps and bounds beyond any of our wildest imaginations. At the time, it was the largest gathering of LGBT people I had ever seen in one place in my life. In the years that followed, the crowds continued to grow, big name entertainers took to the stage, city politicians gushed out hearty endorsements, tolerance evolved into acceptance and eventually, enthusiastic welcoming. Then I left. Just shortly over a decade later I’ve returned to find a city that not only welcomes its LGBT residents and visitors, but practically rolls out the red carpet to make sure we feel safe, at peace and at home. In the past month since my return, I’ve reconnected with old friends and made many new ones. Only in the past two weeks have I finally settled on a neighborhood I’m ready to call home: Poncey Highlands. For the first few weeks I stayed with a friend in Inman Park – a beautiful mix of posh and his-

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toric – and now I’m staying with other friends in West End, another amazing neighborhood, full of incredible architecture. Since the late 1970s, it has been more-or-less home base for the city’s intown African-American community. I’m surrounded by neighborhoods like Mozley Park, Cascade, People’s Town, Cascade and Adair Park. There are plenty of friendly folks that now include many of the elderly residents who have lived here for decades (along with many of their children and grandchildren) mixed in with an ever-growing sprinkling of gay and lesbian couples, artists and musicians: a sure sign that the neighborhood will eventually become as hot a destination as other urban hotspots like Midtown, Virginia Highland, East Atlanta and Little Five Points. There have been two particularly exciting things I’ve realized while staying in this neighborhood and waiting for my new place to become available. According to a report in the Advocate, Atlanta has the largest gay population in the United States. A story in the Hufﬁngton Post conﬁrms Atlanta is also home to the second largest African-American community in the country. That blend, along with a sea of other forward thinking, good hearted progressives from every walk of life, has made Atlanta grow from the city that’s too busy to hate, to a city that is ready to embrace everyone: including you. Whether you choose to come only for a visit during Pride, or fall in love and eventually decide to call it home – we welcome you. When you take a break from the revelry of Pride, don’t pass up the chance to explore some of the other things the city has to offer – as detailed in sections included in this issue that delve into neighborhoods, clubs, dining establishments and various tourist attractions. I bet you’ll be as excited about being part of Atlanta as I am.

OP-ED COLUMN

When Pride changes fear: The chance to practice compassion By MARK KING In my home town of Bossier City, La., I was the first teenager on my block to have enormous platform shoes in the disco year of 1977. I was so excited about my overtly gay purchase that I wore them to Youth Night at my church, where the sight of my festive feet was met with horrified looks from my fellow Methodists. The evening concluded with my being chased down the long hallways of the fellowship hall by three angry boys, ready to commence bashing, until I finally gave up the race and faced them, exclaiming “Please! I can’t run in these heels!” They stopped in their tracks. Their fury had been transformed to confusion, like dogs who had finally caught a car. They muttered “faggot” under their breath, but they retreated. I wasn’t being courageous. I was scared to death. Fear is a curious emotion. As an LGBT com-

munity, most of us have been raised on it. The fear of being rejected or threatened or simply misunderstood, of being unloved or unlovable. To grow beyond those early wounds and become comfortable in our own skin is quite a feat of resilience, and for some of us, a lifelong process. How we transform our fears into something more productive is a tricky thing. And that’s why Gay Pride has such social, emotional, and spiritual signiﬁcance. Beyond standing as a political statement — which surely it is, now more than ever — Gay Pride serves as a sort of recovery process for the fears that brought us to where we are today. Reading this newspaper might be the only way a lot of people acknowledge Gay Pride this year. Maybe they don’t like crowds. But it’s just as likely they fear the loss of family, friends or their own peace of mind if they come too close. If you’ve ever been plagued by the thought of “if you knew me, you wouldn’t love me,” imagine the number of people trying their damndest to overcome that simply by showing up in Pied-

mont Park. If only those fears stopped at the gates of our community. Instead, we internalize the standards we foist on each other and worry that we’re too fat for these jeans, too feminine to be proud, too old, too butch, too shy. We fear what we are, and what we are not. Nowhere is our fear more acute than among gay men when it comes to HIV. We fear infection. We fear rejection. We fear being swept up in the stigma that permeates online cruise sites and phone apps. Granted, hook-up sites aren’t exactly hotbeds of our higher character, but the animosity displayed on them between positive and negative gay men is downright depressing. Our individual anxieties can also easily blot out the profound nature of what is actually happening during Pride: the astounding numbers of LGBT people basking in the safety and support of one another. It allows us the chance to practice a little compassion. This year, take pride, but not only in yourself. Take pride in the woman standing next

to you, in the flamboyant dancer on the float, the lesbian biker, the HIV outreach worker, the older gentleman waving from the car. Consider your own fears and what it took to bring you to this place, and treat them all with the same empathy you may have been searching for. Who knows what kind of courage you may actually be witnessing. And then, hold on to that sense of compassion for our community, and practice it again on Monday. And the day after. And the month after that. Our need for a touch of grace is a year long proposition. At my first Atlanta Pride 20 years ago, I wore a shirt that read, “No One Knows I’m HIV Positive.” I’m going to wear it again this year. Sure, I’m a little nervous about it. But somewhere along the way, my pride in all that I am — and the chance to send a message of tolerance toward those of us living with the virus — has finally managed to trump whatever fears I might still have lurking about. The platforms, however, are staying at home.

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MELISSA CARTER

THAT'S WHAT SHE SAID Adventures in breeding A follow-up to my Fantastic Four When I was in seventh grade, I tried out for the cheerleading squad at my junior high school. I really wanted that spot, since to secure it meant immediate excitement from my friends and an automatic acceptance from other groups in the school I was not yet a part of. I practiced all my moves and cheers, and gave it my all on audition day. But it wasn’t meant to be, and despite my disappointment and confusion as to what else I could have done to have achieved that goal, I moved on having been tougher for enduring the experience. The same holds true now regarding my frozen embryos, who I deemed the Fantastic Four, since that experience also did not work out the way I would have wanted it to. The process of freezing the embryos was outlined in the GA Voice article, “Q100’s Melissa Carter On Road to Motherhood,” published in April of 2010. Since that time we found a gestational carrier. Keeping her identity anonymous, I am happy to share that she is also a lesbian and we were fortunate not to experience any awkward conversations or misunderstandings through this process. I know she was rooting for the success of the procedure as much as we were. Once the Fantastic 4 were thawed they survived for a couple days, but the clinic informed us their progress was slower than normal. Because of that, they decided to transfer all 4, changing what we thought might be two attempts at this into one. All our chips were in and now it was up to the dealer. The day of the procedure the nurses told Katie and me that only one of us could be in the room with our carrier, and we decided since I was the biological mother I would be the one to don some scrubs. Katie, our sperm donor, and his wife sat in the lobby as our carrier laid on the table, with me bedside her.

Melissa Carter is currently one of the Morning Show hosts on B98.5. In addition, she is a writer for Huffington Post. She is recognized as one of the first out radio personalities in Atlanta and one of only a few in the country. Follow her on Twitter @MelissaCarter

Watching through an ultrasound machine, I saw a syringe place all four embryos in their new home. And just like that it was over. Years of preparation for a procedure that took seconds. Our carrier laid on the table for a few minutes afterward, and then asked if she could go pee, since she had to have a full bladder for the transfer. Once everyone was gone, I stayed in the room for an extra minute, tears welling up at what a privilege it was to have been there, regardless of the outcome. It would be several days before our carrier could get an ofﬁcial pregnancy test, and Katie and I busied ourselves during that week that seemed to never end. I was meeting Katie to go grocery shopping one night, when standing in a Kroger parking lot she simply nodded “no” to me, having gotten the call from our carrier on the way. That’s how I learned it did not take, the pregnancy test had been negative, and the little popsicles that had given us so much hope were gone. I put my arm around her and we continued with our errand, and our lives. I think there was a small part of me that knew it wouldn’t work. I’m not sure if that was fear talking or an instinct that odds were against success the ﬁrst time around, but it was a nagging thought dragging at my heart those last weeks before the transfer. However, those microscopic embryos had more love, support and prayers than many, and they had the best chance possible. The fact they all survived to transfer, and were able to complete their journeys together, seemed right. And I am proud for my contribution to that experience. We’ll try again, but how and when will likely be more private next time around. This has been a process years in the making, and I think Katie and I are ready to take a mental break from it. For now.

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TOPHER PAYNE

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DISTURBED Gays of Our Lives It was a family ritual: Every weekday afternoon, my sister and I would lay out our homework on the coffee table, Mama would pour herself a Diet Coke, and we’d get caught up on the latest shocking developments on the daytime TV soap opera “Days of Our Lives.” The beleaguered citizens of the show’s mythical town of Salem couldn’t catch a break, and we were rabid consumers of their glossy agonies – plane crashes, amnesia, and a persistent problem with shipwrecks. We were locked onto the living room Zenith for it all. “Days of Our Lives” was structured in a really useful way, in that one could ignore a scene entirely while doing math homework, then get caught up in the next scene when characters repeated the exact same plot points, very slowly. I’ve always assumed the reason so many awful things happened in Salem was because everyone had trouble processing basic information. KRISTEN: “John, Marlena. Let me repeat this again. I’m pregnant with John’s baby.” JOHN: ”You’re… pregnant? With my… with my … baby?” KRISTEN: “Yes. The baby growing inside of my body is yours. Because of the sex we had that time.” MARLENA: “I don’t understand! What are you saying? John, what is she saying?” JOHN: “I can’t make any sense of this at all! How dare you? How… dare you! The three of us would sit in the living room, nodding in recognition of a given fact which the characters were unlikely to know for months, perhaps even years: Somehow, some way, Stefano DeMira was behind this. DeMira was the source of all sorrow and consternation in the little town of Salem. Whenever anybody was thrown down a well or locked in a secret chamber by their evil twin, all roads would lead back to proverbial villain. Once the truth was revealed, someone would murder Stefano. This would restore order for a little while, until Stefano returned, even more nefarious and vowing revenge because someone had murdered him again. It was really useful, spending my childhood

Topher Payne is an Atlanta-based playwright, and the author of the book “Necessary Luxuries: Notes on a Semi-Fabulous Life.” Find out more at www.topherpayne.com

watching Stefano DeMira plotting and conniving. Because then I grew up, and I wasn’t surprised to see the Stefanos of the real world. They’re the people so single-minded in their desire to wreak havoc on their targets that they’ve lost the ability to evaluate why they’re doing it. And any time there’s trouble, it doesn’t take long to find their fingerprints all over the damning evidence. Our community’s Stefano is Brian Brown. He’s the president of the National Organization for Marriage. When marriage equality becomes a hot topic in a state, Brian is never far behind, armed with righteous indignation and media talking points. Brian was the Oxford-educated, camera-ready replacement for the previous NOM president, Maggie Gallagher, a shrieking harpy who looks like the result of inflating Edna Mode, and then melting her. It was impossible to take her seriously as a spokesperson for traditional marriage, because she seemed absolutely miserable. Who the hell would want to be like her? Brian is a far more charismatic villain. He’s quick to resist the “bigot” label. He claims not to be prejudiced in the slightest. He’s simply a patriotic Catholic who believes that some people are more deserving of rights than others, based upon arbitrary distinctions defined by people who live and think like he does. And anyone who disagrees with him is attempting to destroy America. But call him a bigot? How dare you! dare you! But you’ve got to look a little closer to really appreciate the Stefano DeMira-level villainy this man pursues. The anti-marriage equality protests in France – guess who’s there? Brian Brown. Who flew to Moscow to encourage passage of the draconian anti-gay legislation? Yep, it’s the globetrotting Brian Brown, spreading hatred, fear, and mistrust around the planet. But something interesting happens with those single-minded villains: they eventually become parodies of themselves. People stop listening, because it’s always the same story over and over. They never learn.

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