& Silent Auction
A Jerusalem House Benefit To support HIV/AIDS Housing in Atlanta
Thursday, April 7, 2016 from 6:00 to 9:00 PM The Georgian Ballroom of The Biltmore 817 West Peachtree Street, NW Featuring our auction including getaways, entertainment, dining out packages, gifts, and artwork For more information or to register for this event, please visit www.jerusalemhouse.org/starsparty Presented through the support of Presenting Super Star Sponsors
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MARCH 2016 • V2 I2
Goliath Media Inc. 1874 Piedmont Ave., Suite 370-C Atlanta, GA 30324 404.418.8901 Management William Duffee-Braun
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CO-PUBLISHER
Mike Fleming
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EDITORIAL DIRECTOR
ART DIRECTOR Sales
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SENIOR SALES REPRESENTATIVE
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Jim Brams
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SALES REPRESENTATIVE
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Tray Butler Deven Green
Dustin Shrader Jeffery Silvey
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Premiere Partners Anderson Hair Sciences Center Atlanta Hair Studio • GCB • G Salon • Gravitee Fitness La Hacienda • Paramount Plastic Surgery Ransom & Associates • Simply Catering Thai Chili • UCI Kitchen & Baths The content of this Publication is for your general information and use only. It is subject to change without notice. The opinions expressed by any writer, advertiser, or other person appearing in the Magazine are not necessarily those of the Publication, its management or staff. The information and materials appearing in the Magazine are not guaranteed or warranted as to accuracy, timeliness, performance, completeness, or suitability of the information and materials found or offered for a particular purpose. It shall be your responsibility to ensure that any products, services, or information available through this Publication meets your specific requirements. The Publication is not responsible for claims made by advertisers, content of information, changes, events, and schedules. The Magazine contains information and material which is owned by or licensed to the Publication, including but not limited to articles, advertisement, design, layout, graphics, and logos. No part or portion of this Publication may be reproduced in any way without the prior written consent of the Publisher. Unauthorized use of this Publication may give rise to claims for damages and or criminal offenses. Your use of the information or materials in the Publication is strictly at your own risk.
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MARCH 2016 • V2 I2
Contents
Color story. Deep, bold and rich, these aren’t your oldschool pastels. Our Spring Fashion shoot super-saturates reds, teals and yellows until an entirely new look emerges from winter dressed to impress. This issue elevates your look further with fragrance, luxury activewear and a few style tweaks.
High heels. Broadway in Atlanta welcomes what may be the hottest gay ticket of the year. Sneak a peek at the touring production of Kinky Boots, then strap in and prepare to have your thigh-highs blown off.
Trail blazer. Meet Lee Harrop, our own shining gay star over our city’s own star attraction, the Atlanta BeltLine. When it comes to people you should know, this is the man with the plan. Literally.
Miami heat. Long before things start thawing in Atlanta, events in Florida seem downright summery. Check in with this month’s Winter Party organizers for what makes Miami a hot destination any time of year.
Games begin. March brings Atlanta’s pitchers, catchers, tight ends and other assorted gays out to play. Three sports leagues open spring seasons this month, and they let us in on what it means to be a gay jock.
Editor’s Note Showing your style is part of the fun of being a gay man. Making it your own is part of doing it right in a city ready to bust free from its winter doldrums. Perfect timing: Goliath has the people to see, places to go, things to do, and the clothes to wear for all of it. Welcome to our Spring Fashion issue. Nathan Stoan’s stunning photos of color-popping day looks help you kiss gray skies goodbye in our centerpiece spread. We complement it with some spring style tips that raise the bar on your everyday gay, and take a look into luxury active wear that ups your casual game. Put a top note on the whole package with our no-nonsense guide to choosing the right fragrance. Then it’s time to look at places to sport those new spring looks. Atlanta BeltLine’s Head Gay, aka engineer and Program Director Lee Harrop, lets us in on his next big plans for your daytime excursions, and the Kinky Boots tour offers a preview of a show everyone will be talking about at the Fox.
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Also ripe for your downtime attention, several gay leagues play their spring openers this month. As if local offerings weren’t enough to keep you busy, save some energy for our Travel column excursion down to Miami for Winter Party and its other sunny charms. As gay Atlanta comes out of hibernation, the Goliath guys emerge fresh, too, with coverage of local events. Look for Appearances photos from Love on the Rocks, HRC Superhero Bowling, and Lambda Legal’s Southern Affair. When you’re out and about this month, keep an eye out for our photographers working on the next issue, and always feel free to drop me a line with your own ideas at mike@goliathatlanta.com.
Mike Fleming EDITORIAL DIRECTOR
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G EVENTS
Agenda
G O LIATH
Must Attend Events Adam Lambert The gay rocker with the Elvis hair and dreamy eyes brings his latest show to Atlanta for a one-night-only tour de force performance that fans won’t want to miss. The former “Idol” runner up brings The Original High Tour complete with bigblast production numbers, current songs, as well as favorite hits from his whirlwind career. Lambert plays the Tabernacle on March 8. Visit tabernacleatl.org
Rihanna The Barbadian beauty hits Atlanta fresh on the heels of her Anti album release. Whether she had you at “Umbrella” or she finally made you “Stay,” superfans are chomping at the bit for this one. All the frustration over her release promises of 2015 are forgiven as she takes the stage for the adoration of her gays – you know, and everybody else. Rihanna plays Phillips Arena on March 9. Check out phillipsarena.com.
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Cirque du Soleil: Kurios A cabinet of curiosities is in store when the big top goes back up at Atlantic Station for the latest acrobatic extravaganza from the creative minds at Cirque du Soleil. Steampunk fantasies come to life with clockworks, gears, and Victorian inspirations flying through the air. Shows run March 3 through May 8 at Atlantic Station. Visit cirquedusoliel.com.
Purim Off Ponce Drinks, dance and drag queens collide at the annual fundraiser for SOJOURN. Southern Jewish Resource Network for Gender & Sexual Diversity celebrates the Purim holiday by welcoming all comers in costume. This year’s event takes on a “Wild” theme, but any costume will be embraced with open arms. Purim Off Ponce takes place March 5 at Le Fais do-do. Visit sojourngsd.org.
Courtesy NFFLA Courtesy Atlanta Gay Men’s Chorus
Kinky Boots
And Justice For All
Get ready for the Broadway smash about a drag queen with a heart of gold who helps save an ailing business with her thigh-high stilletos. When Lola’s takes over Charlie’s shoe factory, together they become the next big thing. Hilarity and musical numbers can ensue beginning March 29 and playing through April 3 at the Fox Theatre. Read our preview in this issue of Goliath, and get tickets and more information at foxtheatre.org
Atlanta Gay Men’s Chorus holds its first-ever full blown concert with its sisters of Atlanta Women’s Chorus. Collectively known at Voices of Note, a sound 200 voices strong performs songs of equality. The centerpiece work “Libertad” is composed by AGMC conductor Kevin Robison, based on poetry by Walt Whitman. Three performances on March 18-19 take place at Peachtree Road United Methodist Church. Visit voicesofnote.org.
NFFLA Margarita Bust Just as their gridiron games get started, National Flag Football League of Atlanta takes a break for one of their signature parties. The margaritas flow with the gay jocks playing host to typically hundreds of fans and supporters. Join the whole gang on the patio and inside at Midtown mainstay Zocalo on March 19.
Bubbles & Biscuits Victory Fund is the national organization that trains and campaigns to get LGBT candidates elected across the country. The local arm of the group throws this champagne reception with noshes to update supporters, hobnob with candidates and elected officials. Help them raise money for their ongoing work on March 20 at Wimbish House.
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G GROOMING
Looking Sharp
G O LIATH
You Smell So Good By Mike Fleming
Follow your nose, and this guide, to finding and wearing signature fragrances that put a top note on your style.
E
very gay man loves hearing that he smells amazing, and smelling other guys who do. But you may forego fragrance for fear of getting it wrong.
That’s a shame, because a signature scent can be a fun part of your style. The fifth sense in fashion is smell, and the right scent can put a finish on your first impression. So it’s time to man up and face your fears. Put those adolescent Old Spice nightmares and oldage Aqua Velva heaves out of your mind. Follow these steps to owning your scents like a boss. Step 1: You’re the Man Fragrance is subjective. However many people may get a whiff, you’re the one who has to live with it. You and only you can make the final call on which fragrance to wear. Taking other opinions from interested parties is fine as long as you let it inform, rather than dictate, your choices. Step 2: Don’t Overthink It. So you wouldn’t know a cologne from a toilette from a parfum, or a designer from a niche fragrance. Forget it. If it’s making you smell and feel great, you made the right choice. Step 3: Imagine Yourself Before you try a single spray or dab, think about where you want to wear it. Is your awesome-smelling dream self rocking jeans on Sunday, working on Wednesday, or sporting a Tux
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on Saturday night? In your mind, how does that smell? Hold that thought as we move forward. Step 4: Right Note. A few fragrance factoids can help at this stage. There are scads of “notes,” from top to midrange to base to finish. When you imagined your dream fragrance, was it woodsy and spicy, fruity and floral, or fresh and grassy? Some combination of those? Give the salesperson these hints, and they can point you in the right direction. Step 5: Forget the Price Brands and price are your enemy, unless you’re trying to impress someone besides yourself. If so, put a pretty bottle with a big name in plain sight and make sure to leave the price tag on it. Otherwise, ignore cost until you’re down to your top few, then let your wallet decide if necessary. Step 6: Try it and wait. The only way to find out what works is by putting it on your skin. Ignore magazine samples and those cards department stores pass out, and don’t spray it on your clothes. This is a chemistry experiment, and your natural odor is the X ingredient. Put one fragrance on each wrist and leave. Don’t make an impulse purchase today. Over the next three hours, smell each one and notice how it changes over time. Whiff something strong like coffee between each one. Once you decide, think about shopping online for the best deal.
Step 7: Switch it up Change of Seasons is not just a gay party in Atlanta. Remember your daydream scents and scenarios? Remember the notes and tones you put on them? Chances are you liked more than one. Shifts in the weather might be a good time to give your latest fragrance a break and find a new love. For example, florals and grasses are often great for spring, which kind of makes sense when you think about it. Step 8: Less is more. If you don’t switch up your scents depending on mood, season or setting, you run the risk of going nose blind. A bigger risk is putting on more product to compensate. Don’t. If you apply to more than two hot spots – neck, sternum, inside elbows and knees – you’re probably wearing too much. Speaking of less, start with a small bottle of each new fragrance until you know it’s a keeper. Step 9: Repeat. Take everything you’ve learned, as well as what you’ve decided as you got to know your new fragrance, and apply it to your next purchase. Maybe go back to one of your previous finalists to see how it holds up, maybe try on something new. Step 10: There are no mistakes. Fragrance is a journey, not a destination. Change your mind, change your taste, give the ones you don’t like to your nephew. You’re likely to find several scents that fit several aspects of your personal style, and that’s a good thing.
Our Two ‘Scents’ Recommendations from the Goliath guys as you embark on finding just the right fragrance With our how-to guide under your belt, you now know that you won’t find the right fragrance without giving several selections a test drive. Still, knowing what’s out there can help. These are a few suggestions of popular scents to kick-start your journey to a better smelling you. Paul Smith Sunshine Nutmeg, pepper, grapefruit Limited edition available through May $37
John Varvatos Dark Rebel Wood, rum, leather and vanilla $77
Tom Ford Tobacco Vanille Titular spices, plus ginger, anise and coriander $220
Replica: At the Barber’s Basil, geranium, rosemary and tonka bean $125
GOLIATHATLANTA.COM 15
G THEATRE
On Stage
G O LIATH
Put on Your Kinky Boots and Strut By Jeffery Silvey
One of Broadway’s biggest hits is about to strut right into town with what may be the hottest ticket in all of gay Atlanta this year.
O
ne of Broadway’s biggest hits is about to strut right into town. Kinky Boots, the winner of the Tony Award for Best Musical 2013, brings the high heels and the high kicks to Atlanta for a limited run at the Fabulous Fox Theatre at the end of this month.
This shoe-cente bit of fabulousness with a heart of gold proves that our girl Dorothy from Kansas wasn’t the only one whose life changed by the perfect pair of red heels, and we have the Broadway in Atlanta series to thank for it. “For two and a half hours, we get to play pretend and, in doing so, make people happy,” says Adam Kaplan, who brings lead character Charlie to life in the touring production. “It doesn’t get much better than that.” Based on true events, Kinky Boots tells the story of Charlie Price, a struggling businessman who is tasked with running his father’s shoe factory. With business lower than its most basic flat, Charlie desperately needs help saving the factory. Enter the unlikely friend and muse he finds in the form of drag queen and local cabaret superstar, Lola. Lola’s order of red, thigh-high, stiletto-heeled boots inspires a business revamp. The new and provocative footwear takes the characters – and the audience – from the assembly line of the small-town factory to the catwalks of Milan. Get ready for a modern day Cinderella story about
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friendship, determination, and how fate can change your life if you let it. “Lola offers the best, bluntest advice,” Kaplan says of his co-lead, played on tour by J. Harrison Ghee. Ghee agrees about Lola, and her infectious, uplifting personality is starting to leak into Ghee’s off-stage persona as well, he says. “Lola’s boldness is something I am definitely carrying over into my personal life more and more each day,” Ghee says. “I get to play my dream role every night. I never thought something like this would exist much less the reality of having the opportunity.”
ater experience. Who else could craft the edgy and quirky songs needed for a show of this kind? She injects the right proportion of whimsy into a story of heart, humility, and success against the odds. The work made her the first woman to win the Tony for Best Score without a collaborator. The two leads each prepare to take the stage with just one final word about Kinky Boots. “Heart,” Kaplan says. “Uplifting,” Ghee echoes. So strap on your thigh-highs! Kinky Boots is the feel good story sure to capture the hearts of underdogs everywhere. It’s a reminder that you can make it if you set your mind to it, and that if you can’t walk the typical walk, then just strut, baby.
Gay audiences who haven’t heard about the show yet will be impressed that the success of the show is largely attributed to the story’s writer and its lyricist: Harvey Fierstein and Cyndi Lauper, respectively. The two icons bring their well documented magic to the production. Fierstein of course is a veteran of both the American stage and drag, having already won a Tony award for his role as Edna Turnblad in Hairspray, in addition to his own Torch Song Trilogy. He also wrote the book for La Cage aux Folles, another popular musical featuring a drag queen as a main character. Lauper’s prolific career in pop music brought an X-factor to the production despite her lack of the-
Want to go? What: Where: When: Info:
Kinky Boots Fabulous Fox Theatre March 29 - April 3. foxtheatre.org
G PROFILE
G O LIATH
the next year. It begins with the design of the four-mile Southside Trail, from Memorial Drive to Murphy Avenue. He’s also overseeing construction updates on the three-mile Westside Trail (University Avenue to Washington Park), set to open in 2017. On top of all that, construction of the Eastside Trail Extension later this winter has to stay at the top of his radar. “We’re also wrapping up land acquisitions for a couple of the next park projects, so I’m hopeful that in the next year or so we’ll be announcing some major park design initiatives.”
Russ Youngblood
So what is it about the BeltLine that makes it such a big deal? Atlanta will continue to benefit from the BeltLine’s potential for consumers, businesses, residents and tourists indefinitely, Harrop says.
People to Know
Happy Trails
Doing the BeltLine with Lee Harrop
I
By Dustin Shrader
n a relatively short time, the Atlanta BeltLine has become a renowned tourist attraction for visitors and a lifestyle staple for residents. It already ranks as one of the country’s leading urban redevelopment programs, and it’s not even finished yet. The project provides a link between public parks, multifunctional trails and transportation, as well as a sweeping railroad corridor encircling midtown and downtown. It directly connects an increasing number of neighborhoods to each other, and the continued progression would not be possible without Atlanta BeltLine Program Director Lee Harrop. Long before becoming the BeltLine’s Head Gay, Harrop became part of the fabric of gay Atlanta. In 1991, he moved her from South Carolina to attend Georgia Tech. After graduating with a degree in Civil and Environmental Engineering, he worked in private consulting for 15 years. “It was then I decided to go back to school at Georgia State to get my MBA,” he recalls. “Shortly before graduating with my MBA, I was hired by Atlanta BeltLine, Inc. as their Program Director.” Since then, Harrop has been honored as the 2013 Engineer of the Year by the Georgia Society of Professional Engineers, and he was
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named one of Georgia Trend magazine’s 50 Most Notable Georgians in 2015. “In both of those cases, I fully recognize that the honor really goes to the work ABI is doing and not me specifically – I just happen to be the technical face of a great project.” Humble about the recognition, Harrop is much more than the face of the BeltLine when local news outlets – and gay media – come calling. His role touches on almost every aspect of the project. “I’m responsible for coordinating everything technical about the implementation of the Atlanta BeltLine. I work with partner organizations – PATH Foundation, Trees Atlanta, City Departments – while coordinating all of our real estate acquisition, design and construction activities.” Not an easy to-do list, to say the least. Yet Harrop’s passion and respect for his job manifests in a gift to Atlanta, and he is grateful for his role, as well as the lasting impact the BeltLine will have. “Every day is different, and I can see the difference we’re making in the city,” he says. “Opening a new trail segment or park is much more fulfilling than designing a water treatment plant or fuel farm.” Harrop is currently knee-deep in monitoring multiple projects, all due to be unveiled within
“I think there’s been a pent-up need for the Atlanta BeltLine for a while in the city, both from the standpoint of recreational amenities and neighborhood revitalization,” he says. “I think our community is able to see potential where others may not.” Yet, it is not all hard work in Lee Harrop’s world. The busy engineer is single and takes time to recuperate and enjoy the amenities he helped create. With his beloved Boston terrier by his side and a fantastic network of friends, he and his gays kick back on the trails, people watching and frequenting the restaurants scattered up and down the BeltLine. It’s a luxury that gay Atlanta may not realize exists thanks to one gay man’s determined diligence. When asked if there is anything about the BeltLine that gay Atlantans may not know, he is exuberant to offer his insider tips. The gays may be currently gravitating toward Eastside Trail shops and restaurants, but that’s just the beginning, Harrop says. “There’s so much more to the Atlanta BeltLine than the Eastside Trail,” he says. “We have 7 miles of completed trails, and the Eastside only accounts for 2.25 miles. The Northside Trail (Ardmore Park to Bobby Jones Golf Course) is amazing, and the Southwest Connector Trail (Lionel Hampton Trail to Westwood Avenue) is gorgeous. “As the weather warms up, I’d strongly encourage folks to check these trail segments out.” Thanks for the tip! Happy trails, Gay-TL.
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GOLIATHATLANTA.COM  19
G TRAVEL
Explore
G O LIATH
The Beach Goes On By Tray Butler
M
From boom to bust to boom, Miami’s South Beach is heating up again.
iami Beach is the place where neon goes to die. So said the late comedian Lenny Bruce — allegedly. The oft-repeated quote becomes questionable knowing that Bruce met his own untimely demise in 1966, long before the then-crumbling Art Deco District became “God’s Waiting Room” full of blue-collar retirees. In the half century since then, South Beach has tried on more outfits than a “RuPaul’s Drag Race” finalist, going from ghetto to gayborhood to playground for the one percent. The neon lights along Ocean Drive may have flickered over the years, but they definitely haven’t died. Cycles of boom and bust come with the territory in Miami, a Teflon Babylon that’s survived and even thrived despite hurricanes, cocaine and crime waves. These days, the city is on another upswing thanks to a burst of development and international investment. The downtown restaurant scene has nearly doubled since 2010. Miami boasts the most popular spring break in the nation and the busiest cruise ship port in the world. Last year, it came in sixth on Knight Frank’s list of the world’s top 10 cities for the super rich. 6 Days, 13,000 Partiers, 1 Sun “South Florida is booming,” says Justin Bell, chair of the 23rd annual Winter Party Festival, which returns to South Beach this month. Raising funds for the National LGBTQ Task Force and various local LGBTQ nonprofits, the festival has evolved in recent years beyond its circuit roots.
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It’s now a sprawling six-day celebration, featuring a juried art exhibition, silent auction, VIP receptions, film screenings, shopping events, and — of course — the much-loved dance parties. “We’re seeing more and more events move to unique neighborhoods in Miami, including Wynwood and downtown,” Bell says. The expansion strategy seems to have paid off. Attendance topped 13,000 last year and fundraising hit $1 million for the first time ever. This year, the venerable daytime events largely stick to a formula that’s worked for the past two decades. Under One Sun, the Saturday pool party, promises 2,000 bikiniand boxcut-clad revelers swarming the Shelborne Wyndham Grand South Beach, the festival’s host hotel. The next day, the crowd triples at Winter Party’s signature Beach Party, a sandy extravaganza like no other in the world. New for 2016, the Sunday event goes from 1-8 p.m., adding twilight hours to the beachfront bacchanal. Bell acknowledges that South Florida’s persuasive weather and unique venues help explain the festival’s popularity. He believes the real secret, though, may be the (lack of) attitude. “Our guests have come to realize that Winter Party Festival is the friendliest party on the planet,” he says. “We pride ourselves on ensuring everyone feels welcome.”
More Sights of Miami In 2013, the city’s reputation as a mecca for contemporary art got a boost with the unveiling of the $220 Million Pérez Art Museum Miami (1103 Biscayne Blvd., pamm.org). Culture vultures might also want to experience the Wynwood Arts District and Miami Design Districts, two downtown stomping grounds for aesthetes. If the back-to-back DJ sets of Winter Party Festival leave you somehow jonesing for more EDM, get those earplugs ready for Miami Music Week (miamimusicweek.com) March 15-20, which includes Ultra Music Festival. Hordes (as in hundreds of thousands) of ravers from every nation flock to South Florida for one of the world’s hottest electronic dance music spectacles. Even if it can’t exactly compare to New York or San Francisco, Miami Beach Pride (April 8-10, miamibeachgaypride.com) scores points for spunk — and for hosting what may be the earliest Pride observance on the calendar. The animated parade takes over the Art Deco District on Ocean Drive on April 10. A walking tour on Winter Party weekend? More like a stumbling tour, maybe. Take a stroll down memory lane and learn about the rich history of queer South Beach at the Miami Design Preservation League’s Gay Walking Tour (March 5, 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m., www.mdpl.org/tours/gay-andlesbian-walking-tour). The $26 outing starts at the Art Deco Welcome Center, 1001 Ocean Dr. For more on gay Miami Beach, visit goliathatlanta.com.
GOLIATHATLANTA.COM 21
G SPORTS
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Competitive Spirit
Spring Sporty Spice By Mike Fleming
“The NFFLA provides a social sanctuary for those looking to meet new people,” he says. “We have a draft every season, which provides a better opportunity for players to meet other players on a yearly basis. If you are nervous joining as a new player, we allow you to be on a team with another new or existing player that you already know. The love of football is an excellent reason to join us, too!” But it’s not football and forget it. These are the same guys who let their masc4masc veneers down for Ladies of the League. The drag-tastic fundraising pageant that puts the men into heels and wigs to see who comes out on top. “My favorite thing about NFFLA is the friendships I’ve made over the years,” Bauer says. “Doing that, playing the best sport is even better.” National Flag Football League of Atlanta plays a pre-season scrimmage on March 5, with Opening Day on March 12. They then play each Saturday at Boulevard Crossing Park. nffla.org Atlanta Bucks Rugby Football Club One of gay Atlanta’s most beloved sports teams is known for its burly boys, rough-and-tumble games, rowdy parties, and big ol’ hearts of gold. “I joined the Atlanta Bucks because I wanted a sport that I thought would challenge me,” says Gary Durden-Oswalt. “Rugby does that, but I stayed because the people in this club grew to be my family.”
March league openers are just another reason that it’s good to be gay in Atlanta
I
n an era when gay athletes are coming into their own, Atlanta stands out as a rare city to offer multiple sports options for gay and gay-friendly jocks. Other metropolises have gay rugby, softball, flag football, volleyball, swimming, or tennis. Our fair city boasts all of those and more. Call it another reason that it’s good to be gay in Atlanta.
The gay sports scene emerges rejuvenated each spring after an off-season that lasts only a few cold months. Local gay jocks are known for camaraderie, and for welcoming all skill levels without the shaming that gay players may remember from adolescent sports. Three of the most popular groups kick off this month with plans to play hard on the field and off. Here’s a sneak peek. Hotlanta Softball League With 35 years under its belt, HSL is home base for more than 500 members on some 35 teams in four divisions. There’s something special about softball that draws so many people, says HSL board secretary Jay Malloy. “Softball is a game that you can play with very little skill and learn fast from your fellow team-
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mates,” Malloy says. “This allows you to be as good as you want to be. We make no judgments on ability and include everyone.” Every year, top-flight HSL teams compete in the Gay Softball World Series, and Atlanta hosts the national Big Peach Tournament each Memorial Day Weekend. On the lighter side, look for events like the fun Mr. and Miss HSL pageants. In the end, it’s all about community, Malloy says. “I am so proud of all of the women and men who make up our league,” he says. “I would have never met so many great people without joining HSL.” Hotlanta Softball League throws its first pitch on March 20 and plays Sundays thereafter at Metro Sports Complex. Each game day is followed by an Extra Innings Beer Bust at various venues. hotlantasoftball.org National Flag Football League of Atlanta The men of NFFLA kicked off the spring season at their annual Super Bowl party. Now it’s time for the league’s teams to face off each week to find a champion. Plus, there are myriad opportunities for players beyond the games, says Brent Bauer, NFFLA president.
The Bucks play gay rugby clubs from other cities, as well as predominantly straight squads. Their schedule also includes a big tournament with a global reach. “This club has taken me places that I probably otherwise would not have gone,” Durden-Oswalt says. “The Bingham Cup [named after gay 9/11 hero Mark Bingham], which is held every other year, has been held outside of the US three times since I joined the Bucks, those being Dublin in 2008, Manchester in 2012, and Sydney in 2014.” In addition to their matches, the guys also host monthly bar nights, the fun annual Purple Dress Run through Midtown, and the raucous Miss Ruck N Maul drag pageant. The Bucks wrap the regular season in Atlanta at the end of April, then they head slightly north for the Bingham Cup. The tournament kicks off closer to home this time, in Nashville on May 27. Atlanta Bucks Rugby Football Club hosts its Home Opener against the college jocks of Georgia State on March 12. atlantabucksrugby.org You might also look into the gay sports groups Atlanta Team Tennis Association, atta.org; Hotlanta Volleyball, hotlantavolleball.org; and Atlanta Rainbow Trout Swim Team & Water Polo, atlantarainbowtrout.com.
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Shirt by Bonobos, Pants by Onward Reserve
color crush PHOTOGRAPHER: NATHAN STOAN | NATHANSTOAN.COM WARDROBE AND PROP STYLING KELLY MARTIN AND HANNAH LANCASTER OF THE SPIN STYLE AGENCY
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HAIR STYLING STEPHEN MANCUSO
TALENT PATRICK ANTHONY, STEPHAN FIELDS, KEVIN HAMPTON, COLE RICE COURTESY OF CHOSEN MODELS
Shorts provided by Boy Next Door Menswear, Glasses by Ray Ban
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Briefs provided by Boy Next Door Menswear
26 MARCH 2016 • V2 I2
Shirt by Bonobos, Jeans provided by Bill Hallman
GOLIATHATLANTA.COM  27
Shorts provided by Boy Next Door Menswear
28 MARCH 2016 • V2 I2
Jacket by Topman, Shirt and pants provided by Henry & June, Glasses by Ray Ban
GOLIATHATLANTA.COM  29
Shirt provided by Henry & June, Pants provided by Bill Hallman
30 MARCH 2016 • V2 I2
ON SALE NOW! • MARCH 29-APRIL 3 FoxTheatre.org/KinkyBoots 855-285-8499
G FASHION
12 G O LIATH
WAYS TO INSTANTLY ELEVATE YOUR LOOK By Mike Fleming
An easy dozen ideas, tips and basics that will raise your spring fashion bar without breaking the bank Does your fashion game need an upgrade? Are you inspired by our Spring Fashion Issue but unsure of how to make it work in real life? Never fear. Follow this roadmap to what every man can do on any budget to look his fashionable best.
SHINE YOUR SHOES
It only takes five minutes, it boosts your confidence, and guys are impressed even if they can’t put their finger on why.
GO-TO BLAZER
Every grown man needs a sport coat in classic navy, tan and/or black. Maybe a wool one for winter. The right purchase will last forever and be your go-to for every gay shindig.
FIT IS EVERYTHING
Ill-fitting clothes do no one favors. Did you lose weight but are still wearing your old pants? Did you gain enough that your love handles show when you raise your arms? Stop it.
DARK-WASH JEANS
How to do a staple right. Jeans go just about anywhere depending on how you pair them, and dark ones are slimming while looking more put-together than other washes.
CASHMERE SWEATER
Worth the investment because you’ll wear it for years, pick up one in your go-to neutral color. Throw it on to instantly upgrade jeans, khakis or suits.
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JUST SAY NO TO CARGO
This one is from gay style guru Tim Gunn. “The baggy cargo capri is the single worst item of clothing in America today.” Enough said!
COMFORTABLE, NOT SLOPPY
Every gay worth his salt earns that downtime, but you don’t have to go to a movie in the same thing you wear while flopped down on the couch.
AGED OUT
Gays of any age can do the right baseball cap, graphic tee or shorts. Still, if you’re asking if you’re too old, that’s your conscience. Age is just a number, but it comes with the maturity to make good choices.
BUY FRESH UNDERSHIRTS
Another one from Tim Gunn! “Life is too short for yellowed undershirts,” he says. Spend a couple bucks to keep that crisp, fresh look.
SWEATER VEST? YES
Forget what you heard. These little jewels keep your core cozy while looking classy and permit freedom of movement under jackets and coats.
PUT TANKS AND FLIP-FLOPS ON HOLD
‘Gay uniform’ or not, stand a head above the rest in a collared polo before Memorial Day – and all summer at casual occasions that aren’t the pool or beach.
GIRL! GET A NEW TIE
While your blazer, sweater and jeans may last season after season, your tie won’t. A new tie is a whole new, updated look.
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G SHOPPING
Must Haves
G O LIATH
From the Gym, to the Streets By Mike Fleming
Designers take everything you wear to work out and give it an upgrade you can rock just about anywhere.
C
ome on, gays. You already know not to show up in sweats unless you’re going to or from the gym, or you and your man are hibernating for a Netflix & Chill night.
Say hello to “Luxury Active Wear.” We tapped a few of our favorite Atlanta stores and national brands to investigate how real people can take it from the runway to the streets.
But take note: A new trend may finally let you get away with working those looks in public. Casualwear and athletic brands are co-opting athletic gear and re-imagining shoes, shirts, shorts and pants in lush fabrics and deluxe materials that give you and your casual look an upgrade.
Sexy-jock fits, silhouettes and styles get some high-end tweaks that you’d never wear to work out. Instead, you can totally work these versions at the bars, eating out, or running errands. Here are a few of our favorite things.
J. Crew Italian Cashmere Hoodie Solids, stripes, full and half zip JCrew.com and Ponce City Market $248 Pullin ‘Denim’ Joggers Jeans look, sweats feel Available at Boy Next Door $125 Tumi Alpha2 T-Pass Backpack Fine leather, includes laptop compartment Available at Roam by Mori, Ponce City Market $675 Ecco Biom Hybrid 2 Mutiple color combinations Available at Nordstrom From $165
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Dakota Hoodie Tee T-shirt weight perfect for spring Available at Q Clothier’s Rye51, Ponce City Market $155 ‘Camajuani’ T-shirt Marcelo Burlon County of Milan Farfetch.com $270 Briggs & Riley BRX Excursion Olive or Black Available at Roam by Mori, Ponce City Market $145 Reebok Classics Throwback in luxury leathers Reebok.com From $99 Woven-sweater Joggers & Jackets PublishBrand.com From $119
Varvatos Crewneck with Eyelets Available at Rye51, Ponce City Market $64 Doubleface ‘Baseball’ Raglan Two layers for warmth, multiple color combinations Available at Q Clothier’s Rye51, Ponce City Market $108 Velvet Knee Shorts JackAdams.com $85 New Balance for J. Crew Multiple color combinations Available at J. Crew, Ponce City Market $95 Zerogrand Commuter Pack Cole-Haan Available at Nordstrom $150
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REGISTER NOW
Research to Practice Suicide Prevention for LGBT Communities
March 12, 2016
Emory University School of Medicine To register, visit afsp.org/georgia or contact cowens@afsp.org
REGISTRATION FEE:
$75 standard $35 student
FEATURED SPEAKERS: Ilan Meyer, Ph.D., Williams Institute for Sexual Orientation Law and Public Policy, UCLA School of Law Stephen T. Russell, Ph.D., Department of Social and Behavioral Sciences, University of Arizona Anthony R. D’Augelli, Ph.D., College of Health and Human Development, Penn State University
CHAD MICHAELS FROM RUPAUL’S DRAG RACE WORLD PREMIER CHER IMPERSONATOR
GAY MEN’S CHO ENJOY AN ENSEMBLE FROM THE LEAD VOCALISTS PANACHE
RUS
SEVENTH ANNUAL GALA -Benefiting Lost-n-Found Youth-
APRIL 29TH 2016 | 6:30 PM
THE FOX THEATRE EGYPTIAN BALLROOM AND GRAND SALON Silent and live auctions, cocktails, great food from 10 of Atlanta’s top caterers. Fashion and hair show featuring Atlanta’s best designers accompanied by Steve Hightower Hair Salon & Day Spa along with Jyl Craven Studio. Music provided by Sentimental Journey Orchestra. GUEST EMCEE - KAREN GREER
TICKETS: $75/PERSON, $175 VIP OR $300/COUPLE TICKETS CAN BE PURCHASED ONLINE AT WWW.ATLTHRIVINGCHILDREN.ORG AT STEVE HIGHTOWER HAIR SALON & DAY SPA | 404.264.9006 AND AT LOST-N-FOUND YOUTH | 404.426.0987 V.I.P. SEATS WILL BE IN THE FIRST TWO ROWS WITH A SWAG BAG VALUED AT $250 OR MORE.
G Appearances
G O LIATH
HEROES FOR EQUALITY Never content to rest on its laurels and just knock down some pins for a cause, HRC Atlanta upped its fundraising game with the Superhero Bowl. On February 6, supporters descended on Midtown Bowl dressed in heroic costumes and t-shirts to benefit the local arm of the national LGBT rights organization. Individual and team games were punctuated with an HRC membership drive and costume contest. Visit hrcatlanta.org.
Photos by Russ Youngblood
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G Appearances
G O LIATH
TOAST TO EQUALITY The Atlanta regional office of Lambda Legal pulled out all the stops for its national board in late January. The weekend meeting included the Southern Affair fundraiser at the Center for Civil and Human Rights on January 30. Supporters gathered for an update on Lambda’s LGBT legal battles planned for 2016, and got a chance to hobnob with newly appointed Southern Regional Director and former Georgia State. Rep. Simone Bell. National Executive Director Kevin Cathcart also spoke to the crowd.
Photos by Russ Youngblood
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GOLIATHATLANTA.COM 43
G Appearances
G O LIATH
ALL ABOUT LOVE Joining Hearts knows how to shake off winter. The beloved HIV charity launched its 30th year with a signature annual cocktail party on February 13. Love on the Rocks filled the Cantoni showroom with dozens upon dozens of gay men and lots of love for each other, for the community, and for the cause. DJ Mike Pope and a silent auction kept things lively, and an after party at Henry’s continued the fun and fundraising. Visit joininghearts.org.
Photos by Russ Youngblood 44 MARCH 2016 • V2 I2
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G CONTRIBUTOR
G O LIATH
WELL HELLO.
IT’S DEVEN GREEN DEVEN GREEN is an award-winning comedy performer. You know her from the “Welcome To My Home” parodies, as the satirical Betty Bowers – America’s Best Christian, OCCmakeup ads, “RuPaul’s Drag Race,” World of Wonder, and performing her live music shows in brothels across America. DevenGreen.com Dear Deven: I am dating an older man. Anything I should be aware of? “Coddled in Cobb” Yes, your Daddy issue trumps your Oedipus Complex! You attract what you need to conquer, and it’s usually something that you never mastered in your childhood. Try not to completely use others for your own therapy. Dear Deven: I have no motivation to clean up my place. Will you light a fire under me? “Burning in Buford” Throw money at this problem by hiring a maid. I sense your place is cluttered, which is a direct reflection of where your mind is. Pick up one object right now. If you have used it in the past year put it down – it may stay. Keep what you need and let the rest go. Dear Deven: I’m really into rich men, but I hate accompanying them on business trips. What should I do? “Tripping in Thomaston” If you don’t want to be seen as arm candy, consider creating your own life and stop complaining about relying on the “kindness of strangers.” At least work on a skill so you have a fall back plan when this one expires. I’ve got it! Have these rich men pay for your education. Dear Deven: I want to kiss my partner in public. Is that so wrong? “Did It in Dunwoody” You don’t want my opinion, you want to be “right.” My answer will only serve to feed your power control issues. A clever man can make even the simplest of touches titillating. Dear Deven: I think there is a guy at work that likes me. Can I ask him if he is gay? “Occupied in Old Fourth Ward” Take out your big magnifying glass and search for clues. No you cannot ask him! Work on a great professional relationship and chill out on being an office predator. Dear Deven: My straight friends always want to give me dating advice even though they know I’m gay. How can I tell them to stop? “Arrested in Alpharetta” Be thankful that they care at all about your hook-ups. Does it matter what their sexual orientation is? As an example, I don’t take financial advice from people who make less money than I do no matter whom they sleep with. Check the source. Dear Deven: I never get a full night’s sleep when someone else is in bed. Is this common? “Dozing in Doraville” Yes, it is common when your mind is in overdrive. Lay there and think of one beautiful moment you are thankful for in your life. Close your eyes and be grateful. You may actually go back to sleep with a smile on your face. Then, when you wake up, you can figure out where the hell you are and get on home.
Photo: ReedDavisPhotography.com
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Send me your questions: DevenGreen@gmail.com PS: Would you like me to read this to you? Go to GoliathAtlanta.com and listen!