Goliath Atlanta V3-I2

MARCH 2017 • v3 i2

AT L A N TA S I T E S I N S P I R E

YOUR COLOR STORY ONE WILD RIDE WITH

SANDRA BERNHARD POST-GAY MIDTOWN:

WHAT’S NEXT?

YOUR BEST BETS FOR

FARM FRESH TO TABLE MEET YOUR MARCH

MAN ABOUT TOWN

SWITCH IT UP

For Spring

LOOKING TIGHT IN

FITNESS ACCESSORIES

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EDITOR’S NOTE Not a moment too soon, here comes March to lift the veil on what seems in many ways like the proverbial Winter of Our Discontent. Some of our best coldweather looks stayed closeted in this weird Atlanta weather, and more than few of us have plodded through days coming to terms with potential effects that the election results could have on gay life.

Join the Goliath guys as we chant, Come on, springtime! with everything we can muster in our March issue.

The season is changing, and so can you. We’re here for you, starting with timely transitions that you can make to effectively press the reset button on your wardrobe, at the gym, in the kitchen, with your fragrance and even on that sometime-y man of yours.

You can do it. Just look how far we’ve come. That’s the impetus for our feature, Leaving Midtown, and what a post-gentrification, post-gay era means for gay men and gay culture in Atlanta much further out the current presidential pitfalls.

We’re of the mind that everything will be better now that you can leave home and spend more time outside.

To that end, our cover spread introduces color back into your life in spring fashions inspired by some of Atlanta’s favorite outdoor destinations.

Speaking of getting out and about, our Agenda calendar provides the best bets throughout the month, and we have an interview with one of our top picks:

Sandra Bernhard. The funny lady returns on her latest tour this month, and we talk to her about the show, her activism, and her commitment to LGBT issues.

While you’re out, try our dining suggestions for freshfood tastes that just scream spring, and get to know our March Man About Town, Christopher Stephens from the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra.

We know. You’ve been hibernating, and that’s OK. So while you work on that warm-weather body of yours, our fitness column goes shopping for the best gear to make the most of your exercise regimen. We also give you our Appearances pages from the best gay Atlanta events, with closing remarks from columnist comedian extraordinaire Deven Green.

Go ahead. We think you’ll be glad you dipped your toe into springtime with us. Say hello to the fresh and new, say so long to everything that came before today, and e-mail me with your feedback and ideas.

Mike Fleming Editorial Director Mike@GoliathAtlanta.com

6 MARCH 2017 • v3 i2

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CONTENTS M A R C H 2 0 17

PUBLISHERS William Duffee-Braun & David Thompson

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EDITORIAL Mike Fleming EDITORIAL DIRECTOR ART Tanner Gill ART DIRECTOR CONTRIBUTORS Gastohn Barrios • Deven Green • William Massey Gregg Shapiro • James Parker Sheffield

TRUE COLORS

SALES Russ Youngblood SENIOR SALES REPRESENTATIVE Jim Brams SALES REPRESENTATIVE Steve Tyrell SALES REPRESENTATIVE DISTRIBUTION Christopher Dixon • Brian Harmon

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N AT I O N A L A D R E P Rivendell Media 908.232.2021

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PRINT At Community Distribution Points Across the City ONLINE GoliathAtlanta.com

S E R I O U S LY S A N D R A

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AGENDA S P R I N G F O RWA R D EAU YES FORM & FUNCTION APPEARANCES WELL HELLO 8 MARCH 2017 • v3 i2

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G O L I AT H M E D I A I N C .

C: 404.547.4933 1874 Piedmont Ave., Suite 370-C O: 404.418.8901 Atlanta, GA 30324 404.418.8901 jonathan@davidatlanta.com 1874 Piedmont Ave. A JOINT VENTURE Suite 490-D Atlanta, GA 30324 davidatlanta.com 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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10 MARCH 2017 • v3 i2

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MUST ATTEND EVENTS The Magnetic Fields They’ve been making music cool and gay for longer than any of us like to admit, but their 2017 tour stop in Atlanta behind the 50 Song Memoir LP proves they still got it.

Take a walk on the indie-pop wild side with band mastermind Stephin Merritt and his goonies on March 27 at Variety Playhouse. variety-playhouse.com houseoftomorrow.com

Alan Cumming Tw o B o y s K i s s i n g Atlanta Gay Men’s Chorus performs a program of original works by Composer Joshua Shank based on the award-winning book by David Levithan.

Follow the stories of two gay teens out to break the world record for the longest kiss, two others falling in love, and one whose online life is discovered by his parents. Three shows March 31 and April 1 at Druid Hills Presbyterian Church. voicesofnote.org

The out Scottish actor and singer who redefined Cabaret’s emcee and boasts fans of the big and small screens as well hits the local stage in his wildly acclaimed one-man show on March 3 at Atlanta Symphony Hall. Standards and new material mark Alan Cumming Sings Sappy Songs as the must-see performance of the month. alancumming.com

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Sandra Bernhard The 30-year veteran of stage and screen is back with her latest one-woman show full of songs, silliness and smart comedy. Before you hit City Winery on March 9-10, check out our interview in this issue in which the writer and performer previews her Sandra Monica Boulevard: Coast to Coast tour in a Goliath interview you don’t want to miss. citywinery.com

I n m a n P a r k R e s t a u r a n t We e k

Baconfest

S t . P a t r i c k ’s D a y

So many delicious options, so little time. Well, one week to be exact. Dig in at more than a dozen scrumptious eateries in this popular intown burg. Specials and events dot the menus March 27 – April 2 at places like Pure, Barcelona, Parish, Fritti, Wisteria and Rathbun’s with a wide variety of price points and cuisines. inmanparkrestaurantweek.com

When someone tells you that all you really like about bacon is the salt, fat and crunch, say “Duh,” then direct them to the heavenly deliciousness that is this annual celebration of the stuff. Atlanta’s outrageously savory event in Old Fourth Ward offers ticket options including Bottomless Bacon and Whole Hog, and be warned: Prices go up after March 16. baconfestatl.com

Prepare for those Irish kisses during the annual Wearing of the Green. With the March 17 holiday falling on a Friday this year, more venues will offer green beer and other lucky leprechaun specials like the gay National Flag Football League of Atlanta’s annual margarita bust. Check out our sibling publication David Atlanta for a complete rundown. davidatlanta.com

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A CHANGE WILL DO YOU GOOD

S P R I N G S E T S T H E S TA G E F O R S W I T C H I N G T H I N G S U P I N E AC H A R E A O F YO U R L I F E .

By Mike Fleming

No other season spells transition quite like spring. As gay Atlanta dusts off its winter survival mindset for patio parties and Sunday fun days, it’s time for a paradigm shift, and not a moment too soon.

We’ll help change up your fragrance in the pages to come, but to make way for all aspects of Newly Budding Springtime You, let’s clear the cobwebs in other areas as well.

Don’t worry. This is the kind of spring-cleaning you won’t mind doing. When it comes to your closet, table, gym, and even your love life, a spring change will do you good.

EXERCISE EXCHANGES

CHANGE CLOTHES Literally. Move your heaviest sweaters and coats into storage – not that you were able to wear many of them in gay Atlanta’s warmest winter ever – and break out the windbreakers, tees and maybe even shorts. Moving your freshest looks to the front of the closet is an instant switch to your mindset. Now you’re ready to freshen the rest of your spring spaces.

BYE BYE BYE Say-Something Beanie A Well-Tied Scarf Burgundy, Navy & Forest Wool, Tweed and Plaid Leather Jacket

CUISINE CONVERSION Even if you’re not one for dietary ‘cutting’ and ‘shredding’ to hit Maximum Abs, that winter weight must go. Trade soups for salads, and forgo hearty hearth-made helpings for pleasing portions of protein plates.

Maybe you indulged since the holidays and never really got back on track.

Now’s the time.

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The season for bulking – a term you may have used too loosely lately to allow for extra poundage – is over. Replace resistance with runs – at least some of the time. We won’t take your lifting away, but bro, do you even cardio?

Your swimsuit will thank you.

5 F U L L - B O DY CA R D I O M OV E S

HEY HEY HEY! Statement Cap or Fedora The Perfect Tie Coral, Sky & Seafoam Cotton, Seersucker & Stripes Silk Bomber

1.

Jumping Jacks

2.

Rowing Machine

3.

Mountain Climbers

4.

High-Knee Runs

5.

Knee Smashes

R E L AT I O N S H I P R E P L A C E M E N T We’re not saying you need an upgrade, and we’d never take you from the love of your life. Still, if that guy was just keeping you warm as a placeholder, say sayonara and make room for that park candy and funday fare.

You’ll both be free to acknowledge, appreciate and move on.

BEST OUTDOOR PLACES TO MEET MEN THIS SPRING Piedmont Park Atlanta Beltline Anywhere you find the gay jocks of Hotlanta Softball, Flag Football League of Atlanta, Bucks Rugby and Rainbow Trout

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NOTES OF SPRING

Did you know? Fragrance is an effective bug repellant? While anything sweet and floral naturally attracts flyers and crawlers, scents from musk, citrus and lavender repel insects.

G O L IATH

EAU YES!

C ASUAL LY SE X Y A clean-cut burst of musk is accented by cool mint and fresh lime ideal for casual eye contact with a stranger walking by in the park.

Maison Francis Kurkdjian Aqua Celestia Eau de Toilette, $205

RU SSI AN IN T ERF EREN CE Inspired by artist Gosha Rubchinskiy, this fragrance mixes mineral notes with berries and vetiver to evoke memories of hot sidewalks and free-for-alls.

Comme des Garcons Gosha Rubchinskiy Eau de Toilette, $88 AN ICO N IN N EW C L OT H ES CK One has gone through countless iterations. This summer’s variant links back to the citrus-aromatic original while adding a lush tropical layer with lime, guava, and cedar.

Calvin Klein CK One Summer Cologne, $54

G O I N G ATL AN TI C Atlantiqve has the same fresh water accord as its popular ancestor, but with notes of sandalwood and vetiver for more depth to reflect the deepness of the ocean.

Bvlgari Aqva Pour Homme Atlantiqve Eau de Toilette, $88

TH O SE SU MME R N I G H TS

SPRING MEANS TIME TO SWAP FR AGR ANC E S FROM WOODSY WINTER TO SPORT Y SPRING

Balmy notes of musk, vanilla and tobacco go deep without weighing down your free spirit dancing under the open sky.

Maison Margiela ‘Replica’ Jazz Club Eau de Toilette, $126

By Mikkel Hyldebrandt

ADVAN C I N G C I TRU S Explore bergamot, a complicated citrus profile that’s fresh, green and earthy – so refreshing and so indulgent.

Commodity Bergamot Eau de Parfum, $135

There is something about spring and the subsequent summer months that leave us more open to adventure and taking life in with even deeper breaths. That bolder, yet lighter approach should be reflected in what fragrance you wear.

AF L OAT I N A Z U RE

Here are some great options, whether you seek sportily freshness or sexier sultriness now that you are showing more skin.

Why go light as the weather warms? Fragrances are dependent on heat – the molecules on your skin heat up and evaporate, creating a scent trail around you – so they smell stronger in spring and summer.

That’s why lighter scents, like citrus, botanical and aquatic notes, are preferred.

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O D E TO MASC U L I N I TY True to its namesake, this is a celebration of pure, raw masculinity in light suede with hints of smoke and sparkly citrus.

Tom of Finland Etat Libre d’Orange Eau de Parfum, $90

This lighter, fresher version of the original citrus blossom of the Italian Riviera is more like a dip in the azure-blue waters of that coastline: clear and refreshing!

Tom Ford Neroli Portofino Acqua Eau de Toilette, $152

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SOM EON E YOU SHOU L D K NOW

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MAN ABOUT TOWN CHRISTOPHER STEPHENS M E E T AT L A N TA S Y M P H O N Y O R C H E S T R A’ S C O R P O R AT E S A L E S MANAGER AND FIND OUT HOW EL SE H E E N H A N C E S G AY AT L A N TA

By Mike Fleming The rich diversity of Atlanta’s gay community touches on most every aspect of life in the city. Chances are if you are doing it, enjoying it, depending on it or supporting it in Atlanta, someone gay is helping make it happen.

This month’s Man About Town Christopher Stephens brings his skill set to the table at Atlanta Symphony Orchestra. At 31, this Augusta native with a Sports Management degree originally moved to Atlanta in 2007 to work for the Atlanta Hawks. He switched nearly two years ago to Team ASO. Stephens takes the time to let us in on his work there, the organization’s commitment to LGBT inclusion, as well as his other contributions to the many-faceted tapestry that makes up our community.

Tell us about your role at Atlanta Symphony Orchestra.

The Corporate Sales Manager aides Georgia business and organizations with employee engagement, and one of my proudest accomplishments is starting our ticket fundraising program. Even with our ASO fundraising goals, we have begun helping others with theirs. I also negotiate our deal site contracts and guide BRAVO, our young professional group.

A highlight of my responsibilities is planning our ASO LGBT nights. They are a great opportunity for our community to bond while enjoying an evening of fine arts. Following the concert, we have a reception with ASO musicians, and the first drink is on us! The next one is April 27.

What affiliations do you have outside the Symphony?

In an effort to aid in the fight for equality, I’ve served on the Atlanta Gay & Lesbian Chamber of Commerce board, volunteered with HRC and participated in GLAAD events. I currently serve on the board of the Health Initiative, an LGBT-focused non-profit that provides health care referrals and guidance.

I love my Alma Mater, Georgia Southern University, and now I serve on the Georgia Southern Alumni Advisory Council. Always interested in nonprofit organizations, I’ve also joined the Georgia Center for Nonprofits to learn more about their internal operations.

What do you do for fun?

Since I’m at the Woodruff Arts Center so often, it’s natural that being a patron of the arts has become one of my favorite hobbies. Recently I’ve taken to creating my own paintings….Let’s just say they’re works in progress.

I come from an active, outdoorsy family, so I love getting together with friends for hiking or kayaking adventures – still novice level – and jumping out onto the tennis court. I also attend all the Atlanta festivals I can manage, a favorite being the Food & Wine Festival.

If you were to die tomorrow, what would your legacy to be?

I realized early in life that I was gay, and I knew it was unacceptable where I grew up. I hope that the boards I’ve served on, volunteer hours I’ve donated, and places I’ve worked will leave a path for others to feel comfortable in their skin much sooner than I did. I don’t need a legacy as long as my actions have a positive effect on our equality and internal acceptance.

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PICKED FRESH & MADE TO ORDER

AT L A N TA S E R V E S U P T H E F R E S H E S T I N G R E D I E N T S TO Q UA S H YO U R S P R I N G T I M E C R A V I N G S F O R L I G H T E R , S AT I S F Y I N G FA R E .

TRUE FOOD KITCHEN

By James Parker Sheffield The onset of spring always sets gay Atlanta buzz- Café Sunflower ing. When flowers are blooming and boys are 2140 Peachtree Road, Atlanta 30309 playing outside, we need the right kind of fuel to www.cafesunflower.com keep us at the top of our game.

Tassili’s Raw Reality The junk food stashes we’ve been hoarding be- 1059 Ralph Abernathy Blvd, Atlanta 30310 tween Halloween and Valentine’s Day must go. www.tassilisrawreality.com It’s time to ramp up for healthier choices. Fortunately, Atlanta restaurants are prepared to de- S H O W M E T H E M E A T liver tasty treats that will make your body thank If you’re in search of fresh, healthy salads and you instead of curse you. sides paired with outstanding meat offerings, True Food Kitchen and Takorea provide a great Here’s a look at some of Atlanta’s best spots to selection. On the lighter side, both also have enjoy fresh eats that reflect the vibrancy of the bountiful veggie options. spring.

Located inside Lenox Square Mall, True Food VEGGIE DELIGHTS boasts “health-driven” seasonal selections with Tassili’s Raw Reality in Atlanta’s historic West menu changes to feature items at peak freshness.

End is a great option for guys-for-guys for great We can’t recommend their craft cocktails, fron vegan food. Tassili’s menu of wraps, salads, sides a variety of fresh-pressed juices, highly enough. and smoothies features a wide variety of fresh, unprocessed ingredients. With several items in With multiple locations, Takorea offers a taste all sharable portions, bring all your boys for a fami- its own with wildly popular and totally trending ly-style meal and try it all.

Mexican-Korean fusion. The spice is right on a menu set up for trying multiple items a-la-cart.

For over 20 years, Café Sunflower has served up an internationally eclectic menu featuring the True Food Kitchen best vegan and vegetarian cuisine. From amaz- Lenox Mall 3393 Peachtree Rd NE. Atlanta 30308 ing fried avocado tacos to handmade ravioli in www.truefoodkitchen.com a swanky Buckhead atmosphere, this is a great spot for dates, as well as groups with varying Takorea palates. Hungry? Don’t worry; they craft hearty 818 Juniper St NE, Atlanta choices certain to satisfy even the biggest big- www.mytakorea.com boy appetites.

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SOMETHING SWEET Spring might have you thinking from a more health-conscious perspective, but there’s no reason to deny yourself treats when you’re being this good on your diet. Along with seasonal options for the freshest savory entrees and sides, Alon’s Bakery & Market has some of Atlanta’s best cookies, pastries and breads. Grab an artisan salad and a handmade desert to take home, or dine in.

Alon’s Bakery & Market 1394 N Highland Ave NE, Atlanta 30306 www.alons.com K E E P I T G AY Also on the market-fresh train to your springtime tummy are these tried-and-true gay-founded and gay-run in-town eateries to keep your dollars working within the community.

Ria’s Bluebird Breakfast & Lunch Daily 421 Memorial Drive SE riasbluebird.com MetroFresh Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Mon-Sat, Brunch Sun 931 Monroe Drive metrofreshatl.com Radial Café Breakfast & Lunch Daily, Dinner Thurs-Sat 1530 DeKalb Ave. NE radial.us

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Fact: Bisexual Bernhard famously dated and dramatically dumped Madonna.

SERIOUSLY

SANDRA ACTRESS, COMEDIAN, SINGER AND LGBT HERO SANDRA BERNHARD S H OW S U S S O M E L O V E U P O N H E R R E T U R N T O AT L A N TA .

By Gregg Shapiro Over the years, Sandra Bernhard has found a way to make us laugh and think, often at the same time. She began as a stand-up comedian and moved on to performing acclaimed one-woman shows that cemented her popularity with gay audiences.

She’s proven her mettle as an actress in movies and on TV, and she’s even established herself as a singer with a few albums to her credit. Known for her outspoken opinions, she’s an author, too, having penned three books, as well as the host of her own radio show, Sandyland.

Now Bernhard embarks on a series of concert dates for her latest live show, Sandra Monica Blvd.: Coast to Coast, which hits City Winery on March 10. She chats about what to expect during the performance, her influences, and her insight on all manner of current affairs.

What can we expect from Sandra Monica Blvd.: Coast to Coast?

It covers a lot of territory. Funny encounters with people on the subway. A little bit of looking back at my own personal history. It’s all interwoven with great music and pieces that weave throughout the music. It’s a wild ride on Sandra Monica Boulevard [laughs].

What’s your process creating a show like Sandra Monica?

I do Joe’s Pub here in New York during the holidays, so throughout the year, while I’m doing an existing show, I’m putting together new material for Joe’s Pub. It’s an ongoing process (that directly feeds into the current live show).

I’m also doing my daily show Sandyland on Radio Andy and Sirius XM, that’s also an incubator for me when putting together a show and new material. It keeps me on my toes.

Are you finding material in the current political situation?

No, I’m not. I find little to no humor in it. If anything, it’s verbatim. It’s diatribes, and I don’t like to do that in my shows. … The most important thing for what I’m doing is to lift up people, to bring smart, sophisticated material to my audience. To keep the conversation elevated.

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You were at the Women’s March on Washington, and there’s an LGBT march scheduled for June. Is that something in which you would participate as well?

I’ll be participating in whatever marches go on from here on out!

Absolutely! Whether it’s LGBT rights or the environment or women’s rights or health care, it affects the people we care about. We’re one people in this country. Everybody deserves the best of all of it.

You performed at Gay Days in Orlando a week before the Pulse Nightclub attack. What are your reactions?

It was such a great vibe down there. I performed at Parliament House. It has a poolside stage and it was so fun. It was a sultry, fun Florida night. Everybody was in great spirits. (The shooting) was such a total shock on so many levels. …

I can’t say that it was influenced by international incidents. This guy was conflicted about his own sexuality and had been there (to Pulse) before. That doesn’t make it any better or worse. I’m just saying you have to be clear about how you couch things.

My point is that now, more than ever, people are able to disconnect emotionally and do terrible things that I don’t think we ever imagined possible. Horrible. Let’s hope these things are dwindling, but who knows? With what’s going on in the White House, all bets are off.

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LEAVING D E - G AY E D G AY B O R H O O D, H O M O H O M O G E N I Z AT I O N , A N D S P R E A D I N G O U T. W H AT N OW ?

By Mike Fleming

26 MARCH 2017 • v3 i2

MIDTOWN As some of the chatter goes, Midtown is being ruined by monied straight people reversing the urban flight of several decades ago, and gay Atlanta is somehow suffering for it.

“The neighborhoods have been trying to find a way to sunset the grandfather,” he told Project Q at the time. “There is going to be continued pressure from everybody to not be there anymore.”

We fixed up the place, and rich people moved in. Then we spread out to make our mark on in-town places like East Atlanta Village and Old Fourth Ward, and every suburb within driving distance.

He told local gay newspaper the GA Voice back then, “I just don’t think that the gay agenda is only 24-hour bars and sex clubs.”

But is this a bad thing? Whether it is or not, the de-gaying of Midtown is long over. It isn’t happening; it already happened –a while ago. Gone are the male prostitutes hanging out along Piedmont Avenue and West Peachtree Street north of 10th Street. Strip clubs and other adult venues are being replaced with pricey condos, and the last vestiges of the Red Light District along Cheshire Bridge Road are being razed while you read this.

Wan, who recently launched a campaign to become the next Atlanta City Council President, proposed and lobbied to put a moratorium on adult businesses. Despite a very public battle with some gay residents and the businesses, and some reconfiguring of his proposals to quiet the loudest protesters, he still easily won re-election of the “gay district” in a landslide sweep.

We can debate the legislation of morality and mourn the loss of some aspects of gay culture, but the battle is over. While many of us enjoyed those sides of gay life, others of us are part of the Midtown fabric that helped usher in the change, including Midtown’s gay Atlanta City Council member Alex Wan.

To show how gay life in Atlanta has already changed from some people’s perception as decades pass, the 2010 Census also shows that one in four same-sex households are raising kids in Atlanta.

That’s more than the nationwide average for any city with more than 100,000 people. None of the top five counties for gay people in the metro area are in Midtown. Check out our Where We Are sidebar on the next page to see where we are landing.

“There’s obviously a demand in the market for [the changes]” Wan said as far back as 2012, when adult-oriented businesses were enjoying a grandfather clause to the frustration of neighbors in the Cheshire area at Piedmont Avenue.

And when it comes to gay African-Americans, you’ll find the highest concentration in the country – yes that’s nationwide – in Clayton County south of I-20 and in pockets just east and south of Downtown Atlanta. Again, not Midtown.

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WHERE WE ARE The U.S. Census of 2010 was the first to ask about same-sex heads of household, and it gave us the first real numbers about where gay people live across the country, including pinpointing the “gayest” parts of each state and metropolitan area.

SIGNS OF THE TIMES So what are we bemoaning? Were gay people slighted in some way, or does life, culture and society just evolve?

As acceptance, visibility and equality of gay people grew across the country, times were going to change for gay Atlantans whether Midtown changed with them or not. Now gay people are only one of the many flavors you can enjoy as you hold hands through Piedmont Park, grab a meal with your man near Colony Square, or party at one of the Cheshire Bridge, 10th Street or Ansley-area venues.

Wan represents Midtown District 6 on City Council, a seat that’s been held by a gay person for some 20 years. Since taking office, he led the charge on the council backing marriage equality and officially opposing anti-gay bills. He stood with the full council and the mayor when the fire chief was fired for anti-gay rhetoric, and he helped get Sunday alcohol sales to the polls. In his role, Wan also got the council to add gender identity protections to city policy.

With all that specifically LGBT accomplishment, he vacates his seat with no concern about keeping the district gay. In fact, he doesn’t think the council rep being gay is crucial any longer to success in the area or for LGBT inclusion in its day-to-day life.

“In this day and age in Atlanta, especially with

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my experience in the district seat, people want to see the work get done and they want the person in there to do it,” Wan told Project Q last month.

“They don’t care if you are green or purple or Alex.

Thanks to folks like [former District 6 reps] Cathy [Woolard, who became City Council President herself and is running for mayor next year] and Anne Fauver, [being LGBT] has become a non-issue.”

While we beautify and enrich every area of town as close as Cabbagetown and Castleberry Hill, and as far as Marietta and Milton and beyond, we spread our acceptance by being who we are openly among our neighbors.

It’s human nature to mourn how things once were no matter who you are, but we can also celebrate the fact that our safety allows us to venture further out to suit our own lives without huddling in fear of reprisal.

To be sure, gay rights still have a ways to go, and concerns remain under the current federal administration and an as-yet-decided Atlanta change in leadership come Election Day. While the glory days of all-night bars and dancing are gone, a whole new acceptance and safer world appears to have opened its doors. There’s lots of room for hope to continue making our mark – in more places in Atlanta than ever.

Sources: Project Q Atlanta, United States Census, Williams Institute, Emory University, the GA Voice

Georgia leads the South with a whopping 8.3 same-sex-led homes for every 1,000 households. Dekalb and Fulton unsurprisingly lead the counties, but mountain burghs in Fannin, Gilmer and Rabun Counties round out the top five. Some guys even call Blue Ridge Midtown Mountain. We’re on the move.

The numbers skyrocket when looking at parts of Atlanta. Atlanta is fifth in the country for same-sex-run homes after San Francisco, Seattle, Oakland, and Minneapolis, respectively. Within the city, gay households are most prevalent in Avondale Estates, Decatur, North Druid Hills, Scottdale and North Decatur, with up to 50 gay-run homes per 1,000 households.

GAY-RUN HOMES IN METRO ATLANTA (per 1,000 Households) Avondale Estates

49.3

Decatur

39.37

North Druid Hills

36.87

Scottdale

32.36

North Decatur

30

Notice something? None of those neighborhoods are in Midtown, and that was seven years ago.

GOLIATHATLANTA.COM  29

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FA BU L OUSLY F I T

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FORM & FUNCTION GADGETS AND GEAR C A N ’ T M A K E YO U F I T, B U T T H E Y C A N M A K E YO U WO R K S M A R T A N D L O O K G R E AT O N T H E WAY.

Running Tights & Stretch Tank Modus Vivendi Sport $69 and $53 modusvivendi.com

By Mike Fleming If your gym goals are 10 percent inspiration and 90 percent perspiration, and the difference between fit and quit is as much mind as it is matter, let’s get you some backup, pronto.

Never fear. Your attitude cavalry is here. Work a look while you work that body in workout wear that makes you feel good enough for an extra set, and exercise extras that give a gay guy just the push he needs to finish strong.

Polar V800 Fitness Watch Heart rate, GPS, Online Progress Tracking App $180 polar.com

Birddog Shorts This year’s Chubbies.

Functional at the gym, Stylish at brunch $55 birddogsshorts.com

Pedestal Footwear Barefoot training benefits with built-in grip but without floor-grunge as gross as a motor inn $25 pedestalfootwear.com

30 MARCH 2017 • v3 i2

Main Image by Gastohn Barrios gastohn.com

Rogue Kettlebells $62 roguefitness.com Smith Drake Sport Shades Skip the Oakleys, please. Polarized, tech-enhanced and break resistant. $209 smithoptics.com

North Face Hyperair Training Jacket Spring showers are part of the deal, now you won’t be caught unprepared. $249

20

MINUTE

Kettle-Bell Shred All you need is a single kettlebell to crush calories, improve aerobic fitness and muscle endurance while hitting glutes, thighs, shoulders, and triceps.

15 swings (below) 10 goblet squats 5 shoulder presses with each arm.

Rest as much as you need, and repeat as often as you can for 20 minutes. Track your improvement over time.

Kestral Legend SL Road Bike $3,250 kestrelbicycles.com

Source: menshealth.com

Concept2 SkiErg Cross-country motion for one-stop cardio and resistance when you can’t get to the gym. $770 concept2.com

Yeti Rambler Bottle Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate. $40 yeticoolers.com

Reebok CrossFit Speed TR Mens Health-voted Best All-around Gym Shoe three years running. $100 reebok.com

GOLIATHATLANTA.COM 31

MAKING ITS TRIUMPHANT RETURN TO ATLANTA!

ON SALE NOW

FEBRUARY 22 - MARCH 5 FoxTheaTre.org/PhanTom • 855-285-8499

We are seeking AMBITIOUS, HARD-WORKING & TALENTED PEOPLE TO BE OUR NEXT ALL-STAR AD SALES REPRESENTATIVES Jumpstart your career by joining Atlanta’s leading gay media company!

Salary + Commission + Bonus Opportunity One Year Sales Experience Required Email your resume to william@goliathatlanta.com No Calls Please. Duffee Media and DRT Media Group are equal opportunity employers

32 MARCH 2017 • v3 i2

2169 Briarcliff Road | Atlanta, GA 30329 404-315-6750 Authentic Thai Cuisine Family owned and operated for 20 years

Dine-in | Take-out | Delivery | Catering Delivery within 3 miles. $15.00 minimum order.

www.thaichilicuisine.com

GOLIATHATLANTA.COM  33

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TRENDING FOR SPRING

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CO LOR STORY M A K E A P P E A R A N C E S A R O U N D T OW N T H I S S P R I N G A S YO U M A K E YO U R M A R K I N O N E - C O L O R L O O K S T H AT ARE ANYTHING BUT ONE-NOTE.

By Mike Fleming Take inspiration from Atlanta’s most colorful places as you step into spring in monochromatic looks that dress you in head-to-toe hues.

34 MARCH 2017 • v3 i2

Ensemble by Todd Snyder

YO U ’RE PLUMB ST YLING IN P L U M AT G R A N T PA R K A N D Z O O AT L A N TA , W H E R E PA N D A T W I N S YA L U N A N D X I LUN, ARE THE BIG D R AWS RI G H T N O W. Z O O AT L A N TA . O R G

POP IN BEIGE AND BROWN ON THE AT L A N TA B E LT LINE , FIND YOUR SELF UNDER THE WAT C H F U L E Y E S OF THIS WILLIAM MASSEY SCULPTURE. HE ALSO C R E AT E D T H I S M O N T H ’ S G O L I AT H COVER ART L AST YEAR. GOLIATHATLANTA.COM 35

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TRENDING FOR SPRING

G O L IATH

GEORGIA AQUARIUM I N S P I R E S YO U R WAT E R Y B L U E S A N D U LT R A MARINES WITH WILDLIFE T H AT W H I S K S YO U A N D A D AY D A T E A W AY I N T H E L A RG E S T FAC I L I T Y OF ITS KIND IN THE WESTERN HEMISPHERE. GEORGIA AQUARIUM.ORG

36 MARCH 2017 • v3 i2

Lacoste for Spring.

Photo by fashionstock.com

Lacoste for Spring,

Photo by fashionstock.com

B L E N D I N T O S TA N D O U T I N G R E E N AT AT L A N TA B O TA N I C A L GARDEN, WHICH F E AT U R E S O R C H I D D AY S T H I S S P R I N G FOR CHILLING ON A D AT E O R W I T H FRIENDS. AT L A N TA B G .O R G

GOLIATHATLANTA.COM  37

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TRENDING FOR SPRING

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NO SEASON IS COMPLETE WITHOUT A FE W BOYS NIGHT S A T T H E F O X T H E AT R E .

ST Y LE YOURSELF IN B E I G E S A N D TA U P E S LIKE THE ICONIC BUILDING ITSELF WHEN YOU DIP INTO NORAH JONES AND T HE BO DY GUARD IN MARCH, HEDWIG & THE ANGRY INCH IN APRIL. IDINA MENZEL T I C KE T S ARE ALRE ADY O N S A L E F O R J U LY. F OX T H E AT R E .O R G

38 MARCH 2017 • v3 i2

Lacoste for Spring.

Photo by fashionstock.com

THE ICONIC M A N U E L’ S TA V E R N WALL JUST GOT A 10 0 -Y E AR FAC E L I F T A LO N G WITH THE WHOLE E S TA B L I S H M E N T. YOU’RE SIT TING PRE T T Y IN PE ACH WHILE HANGING WITH YOUR LGBT DEMS, POLITICOS AND ACTIVISTS IN PONCE Y HIGHL AND. GOLIATHATLANTA.COM 39

40 MARCH 2017 • v3 i2

A Jerusalem House Benefit to support HIV/AIDS Housing in Atlanta

Thursday, May 4, 2017 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 packages, gifts, and artwork For more information or to register for this event, please visit

www.jerusalemhouse.org/starsparty

42 MARCH 2017 • v3 i2

650 NORTH AVENUE NE, PONCE CITY MARKET, ATLANTA, GA 30308 CITYWINERY.COM/ATLANTA 404.WINERY1

2.11

2.15

ATLANTA’S FIRST URBAN WINERY, INTIMATE MUSIC VENUE, RESTAURANT & PRIVATE EVENT SPACE

the music

Comedy & Cocktails Wasabassco Series Burlesque Hosted by Damon Sumner

2.1

2.8

Col. Bruce Hampton film & Wine Pairing

Wine & Chocolate Pairing Class

2.16-17

2.26

3.10

Anthony David

Deana Carter

Sandra Bernhard

the wine 2.14

2.16

Valentine’s Dinner

Wine School Winemaking France: 101: Red Wine Burgundy

the food Indulge your senses...

2.17

44 MARCH 2017 • v3 i2

SUPPORT THE BUSINESSES WHO SUPPORT YOU The AGLCC has been helping the LGBT community keep its dollars in the pockets of LGBT- and Ally-owned companies since the mid-1980’s. Our online Member Directory has everything you need to live your LGBTA life to the fullest—all while building the rainbow economy.

VISIT WWW.THEAGLCC.ORG TO LEARN MORE LGBT ADVOCACY THROUGH ECONOMICS

EVENTS | MEMBERSHIP | LGBT-FRIENDLY BUSINESS DIRECTORY

GOLIATHATLANTA.COM 45

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A DV ICE

G O L IATH

WELL HELLO.

IT’S DEVEN GREEN D E V E N G R E E N I S A N AWA R D - W I N N I N G C O M E DY P E R F O R M E R . YO U K N OW H E R F RO M T H E “ W E L C O M E TO M Y H O M E ” P A R O D I E S , A S T H E S AT I R I C A L B E T T Y B O W E R S – A M E R I C A’ S B E S T C H R I S T I A N , A N D P E R F O R M I N G H E R L I V E M U S I C S H OW S I N B ROT H E L S AC RO S S A M E R I C A .

DEVEN IS ALLERGIC TO APPLES. DEVENGREEN.COM

DEAR DEVEN: My partner is a chef who makes beautiful food, but a lot of it, and he wants me to eat EVERYTHING off of my plate. How can I say no? – “Fowl”

You don’t need to put anything in your mouth that you don’t want to. You should not be eating for two. Eat for you. “No” means no means in any context. If he is that great, I’m sure he can make smaller portions.

DEAR DEVEN: Should I eat meat?

– “Fauna”

That is an ethical question for you to answer not for me to tell you what to do. As you grow wiser, you make personal and physical revelations. Your beliefs may evolve as well.

DEAR DEVEN: I am getting heavier being a vegetarian.

Is there no winning? – “Flora”

DEAR DEVEN: Is there anything I should or shouldn’t eat before being intimate? – “Feast”

Photo: AustinYoung.com

DEAR DEVEN: Is there a way to have a “cleaner” diet?

– “Fruit”

Yes there is no winning! I’m sure you aren’t gaining weight by eating broccoli. Maybe you are putting a spoonful of sugar in your pie hole? You can trick your mind, but not your body.

Be intimate first, and then eat.

Try fiber. But you understand that there will always be “a little dirty” involved.

DEAR DEVEN: Why do guys use the eggplant (aubergine) emoji? – “Flexible”

It has no other “meme-ing” than exactly what it looks like.

DEAR DEVEN: I really want fresh produce all year long, but everything is seasonal. What’s a farmer wannabe to do? – “Frosted”

It has no other “meme-ing” than exactly what it looks like.

DEAR DEVEN: What is the difference between a fruit and vegetable? – “Flame”

Seeds and roots. I’m sure you understand.

DEAR DEVEN: When I am starving I over eat and put everything in my mouth. I feel awful afterward. How can I break this pattern?

– “Famished”

If you read the nutritional label on a package, that alone should stop you in your tracks. Try eating foods that have no label (i.e. a banana). If you know you get snack attacks, then be prepared with healthy choices! Be smarter than a bag of chips. And, as a general rule: If you have too much of anything in your mouth just spit it out – God knows I do.

DEAR FRIENDS: This column is for entertainment purposes...mostly mine.

Send me your questions: DevenGreen@gmail.com PS: Would you like me to read this to you? Go to GoliathAtlanta.com and listen!

46 MARCH 2017 • v3 i2

FEELING LUCKY? CUSTOMIZE ALL THINGS

ST. PATRICK’S DAY!

ATLANTA | 1080 W. Peachtree Street NW | mycreativeapproach.com Contact: Richard Pope | richard@mycreativeapproach.com | 404.480.8222 Creative Approach is a certified LGBT Business Enterprise and wants to partner with you!