Metra Issue 975 - MAR 2024

122 E

O:

Published monthly (est. 1979)

Co-Owner & Story Editor:

Charlie Frontera

Co-Owner & Chief Editor: Frankie Wingle

Operations Coordinator:

Justin Bettcher

Contributing Writers: TJ Drinksof

Davey Shadow

Dr. Joe Kort

Keegan Michelson

Tiki

Tim Nakie

Art Layout/Design:

Jerry Leasure

Additional Photography: RaeD8 Photography

Frankie Wingle

Cameron Banks

Midwest/Local Sales:

Charlie Frontera

248-543-3500

National Advertising:

Rivendell Media

212-242-6863

Distributors:

Eddie Desormeau

Brad Simmons

Nicholas Wendling UPS

14

Begins april 7th

Go Ahead: Go on a Masterdate

In a world often buzzing with shared moments and group gatherings, the idea of going on a masturdate might seem crazy. However, there’s a certain beauty in the simplicity and self-discovery that accompanies a solo date night.

Embracing solitude doesn’t equal loneliness; it’s a celebration of self-love and personal growth. Stepping out on your own can be a liberating experience, offering a unique opportunity to reconnect with yourself in a way that social outings sometimes don’t allow.

One of the perks of a solo date is the freedom to choose without compromise. Your favorite restaurant, that quirky indie film, or a spontaneous visit to an art gallery or new dance club –the decision is entirely yours. Without the need for consensus, your preferences take center stage, leading to a more authentic and fulfilling experience.

The absence of conversation partners doesn’t mean an absence of connection. Going on a date alone opens the door to striking up conversations with strangers, be it the friendly barista or fellow patrons. It’s a chance to engage with the world around you, fostering a sense of openness and

curiosity.

The solitude of a solo date allows you to be fully present in the moment. There’s no distraction from shared conversations or the buzzing of group dynamics. It’s an opportunity to savor the flavors of your meal, immerse yourself in the storyline of a film, or appreciate the strokes of an artist’s brush without external interruptions.

Perhaps most importantly, going on a date alone promotes self-reflection. In a society that often emphasizes external connections, taking the time to enjoy your own company can be a powerful act of self-care. It encourages introspection, helping you understand your desires, preferences, and values more deeply.

So, the next time you find yourself contemplating a masturdate, embrace the opportunity to be your own best company. After all, the most fulfilling relationships often start with a strong connection to oneself. Not to mention, the odds of your masturdate ending with some action your bed are definitely in your favor. But that’s another story…

Timmy Nakie

Around Town

Bars, Clubs, Tavern, Food, Clothing & More!

Camp Grounds

There’s Something About Chad

Get ready for a renaissance! Somewhere In Time, located in Lima, Ohio, is slated to make a comeback, this time bigger and better than ever before. For some time now, new owner Chad, was looking to make his mark on the LGBTQ+ community in a positive way. Originally looking for a place to open his new coffee shop concept, Chad came across Somewhere In Time in January of this year. He immediately fell in love, saying that the space “just felt like home.” Work began immediately and Chad has set an ambitious goal to have the new and improved space scheduled for its grand opening March 1st.

While the space has been closed on and off over the past few years due to the effects of COVID and the subsequent economic situation, Chad says this Re-grand opening will be for good. He has received support and encouragement from past patrons and employees of Somewhere In Time, all giving positive affirmation to reestablishing this treasured space. During the day, the plan is to have the space open as a coffee shop, but by night it’s going to be Lima’s hottest new safe space for the LGBTQ+ community. This will certainly be a welcome and needed space for our community in that part of the state.

Somewhere In Time is slated to open March 1st. Be sure to check out this new and exciting spot, we are certain it will be worth the trip for our Michigan and Toledo readers. “It’s not what it was, but we hope it’s more then it was ever expected to be.” said Chad.

THROUGH LGBTQ+ SPORTS LEAGUES

Follow us for details about our upcoming spring sports!

Affirmations’ Board is integral to the governing and growth of our center. Although they may not be the faces you see on a daily basis, their influence and expertise make our daily success possible. We’d love for you to get to know a little more about them!

Meet Brandon...

Brandon brings over a decade of diverse experience, spanning K-12 schools, adult education, higher education, and the nonprofit sector.

He currently works as a program officer at Borealis Philanthopy's Spark Justice Fund, which resources grassroots organizing groups advancing transformative visions of criminal justice reform in communities most impacted by incarceration.

In a bid to enhance civic participation, he successfully ran for and was elected as a precinct delegate, actively engaging in efforts to inform and boost voter turnout during pivotal elections.

Brandon is a graduate of Wayne State University, obtaining a B.A in Education and a master's in Public Administration and Policy from The University of Michigan-Dearborn.

Brandon Gleaton Member at Large

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Listen to REAL STORIES being told by REAL VOICES.

No matter where life takes you, Because HIV doesn’t change who you are.

BIKTARVY® is a complete, 1-pill, once-a-day prescription medicine used to treat HIV-1 in certain adults. BIKTARVY does not cure HIV-1 or AIDS.

Ask your healthcare provider if BIKTARVY is right for you.

People featured take BIKTARVY and are compensated by Gilead.

ELIAS SWITCHED TO BIKTARVY

IMPORTANT FACTS FOR BIKTARVY®

This is only a brief summary of important information about BIKTARVY® and does not replace talking to your healthcare provider about your condition and your treatment.

MOST IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT BIKTARVY

BIKTARVY may cause serious side e ects, including:

 Worsening of hepatitis B (HBV) infection. Your healthcare provider will test you for HBV. If you have both HIV-1 and HBV, your HBV may suddenly get worse if you stop taking BIKTARVY. Do not stop taking BIKTARVY without first talking to your healthcare provider, as they will need to check your health regularly for several months, and may give you HBV medicine.

ABOUT BIKTARVY

BIKTARVY is a complete, 1-pill, once-a-day prescription medicine used to treat HIV-1 in adults and children who weigh at least 55 pounds. It can either be used in people who have never taken HIV-1 medicines before, or people who are replacing their current HIV-1 medicines and whose healthcare provider determines they meet certain requirements.

BIKTARVY does not cure HIV-1 or AIDS. HIV-1 is the virus that causes AIDS.

Do NOT take BIKTARVY if you also take a medicine that contains:

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 any other medicines to treat HIV-1

POSSIBLE SIDE EFFECTS OF BIKTARVY

BIKTARVY may cause serious side e ects, including:

 Those in the “Most Important Information About BIKTARVY” section.

 Changes in your immune system. Your immune system may get stronger and begin to fight infections that may have been hidden in your body.

(bik-TAR-vee)

Tell your healthcare provider if you have any new symptoms after you start taking BIKTARVY.

 Kidney problems, including kidney failure. Your healthcare provider should do blood and urine tests to check your kidneys. If you develop new or worse kidney problems, they may tell you to stop taking BIKTARVY

 Too much lactic acid in your blood (lactic acidosis), which is a serious but rare medical emergency that can lead to death. Tell your healthcare provider right away if you get these symptoms: weakness or being more tired than usual, unusual muscle pain, being short of breath or fast breathing, stomach pain with nausea and vomiting, cold or blue hands and feet, feel dizzy or lightheaded, or a fast or abnormal heartbeat.

 Severe liver problems, which in rare cases can lead to death. Tell your healthcare provider right away if you get these symptoms: skin or the white part of your eyes turns yellow, dark “tea-colored” urine, light-colored stools, loss of appetite for several days or longer, nausea, or stomach-area pain.

 The most common side e ects of BIKTARVY in clinical studies were diarrhea (6%), nausea (6%), and headache (5%).

These are not all the possible side e ects of BIKTARVY. Tell your healthcare provider right away if you have any new symptoms while taking BIKTARVY.

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

Your healthcare provider will need to do tests to monitor your health before and during treatment with BIKTARVY.

Continued on next page.

Please see Important Facts, including important warnings, continued on the next page and at BIKTARVY.com.

Meet a few of the extraordinary people who take BIKTARVY. Watch their stories at BIKTARVY.com

IMPORTANT FACTS FOR BIKTARVY® (cont’d)

BEFORE TAKING BIKTARVY

Tell your healthcare provider if you:

 Have or have had any kidney or liver problems, including hepatitis infection.

 Have any other health problems.

 Are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. It is not known if BIKTARVY can harm your unborn baby. Tell your healthcare provider if you become pregnant while taking BIKTARVY.

 Are breastfeeding (nursing) or plan to breastfeed. Do not breastfeed. HIV-1 can be passed to the baby in breast milk.

Tell your healthcare provider about all the medicines you take:

 Keep a list that includes all prescription and over-the-counter medicines, antacids, laxatives, vitamins, and herbal supplements, and show it to your healthcare provider and pharmacist.

 BIKTARVY and other medicines may a ect each other. Ask your healthcare provider and pharmacist about medicines that interact with BIKTARVY, and ask if it is safe to take BIKTARVY with all your other medicines.

HOW TO TAKE BIKTARVY

Take BIKTARVY 1 time each day with or without food.

GET MORE INFORMATION

 This is only a brief summary of important information about BIKTARVY. Talk to your healthcare provider or pharmacist to learn more.

 Go to BIKTARVY.com or call 1-800-GILEAD-5.

 If you need help paying for your medicine, visit BIKTARVY.com for program information.

D’EVA

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DIMITRI ZACH THERON

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EXPLORE YOURSELF with the http://Squirt.org 31-Day Masturbation Challenge

Hey there, handsome, ready to bust? We’ve been feelin’ some Big Masturbation Energy at http://Squirt.org so we’ve put together a 31-day Squirt Sesh Challenge. It’s time to lube up, unzip, and celebrate your solo jack-off time to help you explore and discover new ways to fuck yourself.

These are intended to be fun suggestions as one of many ways for you to experiment with your sexual self. You know your body best and you are responsible for your well-being. Proceed with caution at your own risk!

Blindfold & Bust. Cover your eyes and jerk as you do. Rub your balls, sniff your pits, play with your hole, suck on your finger. Notice how your sense of smell, touch, taste and sound intensify. If it sounds hot, throw on some porn to hear the moans and groans. Try tasting your load after you bust and before the blindfold comes off. If you don’t have a blindfold, use a hankey, or towel, or try this in the dark. Blindfold play is a great way to introduce yourself to bondage and BDSM.

Organize A Circle Jerk. Whether you’re hosting at home or meeting at a bathhouse watching other guys stroke while you do can

be hot AF, especially with the added restraint of not being allowed to touch each other. That sexual tension can get super intense. Organize your group at http://Squirt.org . Our cruising club community members are always down for dick!

Be A Star. Record yourself jerking off and then rewatch or listen to the audio and cum again. Try watching some porn first to get inspiration on how to make love to the camera. Another trick is to have it playing while you’re recording so you can mimic the moves. Consider uploading the video to your http://Squirt. org cruising profile or sexting it to a friend.

Cam & Cum. Put what you learned in the last challenge to the test and ‘bate with someone in one of http://Squirt.org ’s Video Chat Rooms. For the advanced, arrange a virtual circle jerk! Camming is a safe way to explore anon sex from the comfort of your bed, or dungeon.

Thirsty For More? Visit daily.squirt.org for the full list of challenges. Plus porn scenes and stories inspired by our Global Cruising Club member’s hottest moments on our site, and loads of sexy content for guys into guys.

Religious trauma is real!

Religion, and religious identity, carries deeply impactful meaning in our lives. Losing that identity or a religious community can be traumatic – and that trauma can stay with us for years. But, there is a way to heal and move forward.

Today, some churches are “weaponizing” religion (as one religious leader calls it), which can cause very serious and deeply rooted emotional damage. In some religious institutions, for example, gay, lesbian and trans people are told that God condemns them because their traits are considered evil or sinful.

There are many sources of religious trauma: a divorce, a change in core beliefs, a sexual identity issue, or even sexual assault. In the case of divorce, a religious body may pressure someone to stay in a broken or even harmful marriage because of its dogmatic belief. For those going through a sexual identity issue, the church may ostracize that person.

When individuals feel have no choice but to leave the religious community that has harmed them, this experience can be devastating! They have lost an identity and belief structure that has been integral in their life for many years; friends and family have turned their back on them; they feel betrayed, alone, and confused. Even though the decision to leave can be healthy and even life-saving, it can leave a person feeling broken and traumatized.

Psychodynamic therapy is particularly well-suited to address the short- and long-term harm caused by religious indoctrination and trauma.

I am seeing a number of clients who are working through confusion, stress, anxiety, depression, self-doubt and feelings of social inadequacy because the religion they have followed and believed in their entire life no longer works for them.

derstanding the harm caused by religious trauma can feel like deconstructing a house, brick by brick.

How does the healing process start?

As a therapist trained to help victims of religious trauma, I begin anywhere the client wants to begin. The biggest step is deciding to seek professional help.

In their first visit, many people dealing with religious trauma feel hopeless and helpless. Without their religion, they feel ill-equipped to navigate life.

As a therapist and someone who personally has experienced religious trauma, I understand the pain, the anger, and the loneliness clients may feel. I can help.

The “deconstruction process” helps clients separate from their trauma and allows them to rebuild a new set of beliefs. I work with them to understand the ways in which their religious community caused harm, and how they can move forward from this as a stronger and healthier individual.

Deconstruction begins by helping clients examine the pieces of their religious beliefs and practices that are causing them pain. We break down the trauma into small, manageable components that allow clients to identify each specific issue and start making positive emotional “replacements.” They can begin to develop an adjusted set of beliefs that will give them new meaning in their life and their relationships. They can begin rebuilding their worldview and self-worth, and feel empowered to embrace life again in a much healthier way.

It’s not easy to separate personal values from religious beliefs, but with time and therapy, those facing the impact of religious trauma can create a life for themselves outside their religion – one that feels safe, healthy and authentic.

SATURDAY'S: BOYZ NIGHT OUT

UNDERWEAR CONTEST

Whore - o - Scopes

ARIES: Intimacy and romance come to the forefront for the spicy little ram this month! While you may have a habit of being a plow-and-go kind of guy, you can expect an extra dash of spiritual, sexual connection in the bedsheets. The God of War finds himself in particularly amorous moods and you may even feel a pull toward commitment. Whether it’s intense BDSM or good ol’ missionary, prepare yourself for a desire to connect from the heart.

TAURUS: Well, well, Taurus, this month has you feeling a bit more experimental, playful, and open minded than usual. Whether it’s exploring some fun group play dynamics, getting into some public play, or simply trying something you’ve never done before, the stars will applaud you for being adventurous. While your sign typically prefers what is routine, predictable, and filled with pleasure, opportunities for expansion and discovery are on the horizon. Besides, you have so much to teach others about pleasure, it would be a shame not to share it!

GEMINI: The sign of flirtation directs its energies toward professional and career oriented pursuits this month! Advancements in the workplace and your personal ambitions will surely take center stage, but don’t be surprised if you’re feeling a little frisky at work. Whether it’s a co-worker, customer, or client, there’s sure to be a bit of chemistry. Just be sure to follow company policies, and if you don’t, be sure not to get caught! Who knows – a little office romance could turn into a friends-with-bennies love affair!

CANCER: While intimacy and romance are natural attracting factors for you, Cancer, this month you’ll feel a draw toward what is exotic and unknown. Whether it’s attracting a lover or flirtation from a different background, having a fling while traveling, or simply getting out of the usual routine and finding yourself in thrilling new positions, you’re sure to have fun through exploring unfamiliar territory. A little party never hurt nobody – time to get out of your comfort zone and delve into something sexy!

LEO: The forces of nature turn their tides in your

direction with sex, death, rebirth, and intensity! There’s a transformational shift occurring this month where you begin to release old patterns, partners, or lovers and understand that sometimes in life, things are meant to be let go in order to allow something greater to take its place. Don’t be surprised if you’re drawn to intense bonding on the level of the soul. It’s a new level of depth in the heart, dear lion!

VIRGO: Always eager to please, you get to visit familiar territory this month, Virgo! The emphasis is on relationships, partnerships, and interactions with the people closest to you. Whether it’s doing the horizontal merengue with a loved one or bringing your skills of organization and meticulous care to those closest, the emphasis plays to your natural strengths. Because it’s familiar, try spicing things up by studying a new sexual technique to bring to your partners!

LIBRA: My, my, Libra, we have a spicy sexual exploration coming for you this month! The emphasis of exploring kink, Dom/sub dynamics, power play, and bondage come to the forefront. Don’t be surprised if sex begins to sneak into the tiny little details of the day to day with a partner or even with yourself. Outside of your sex life, you may be cleaning house and removing things from your home, straightening things up, and also replacing or tuning up things that may be out of date. From sex to the day-to-day, the earth moves under your feet, Libra!

SCORPIO: If power is Scorpio’s biggest turn on, prepare yourself for an astrological transit straight from your wet dreams. This month, the support of Saturn and Mars strengthen your ego, identity, and ability to get what you want. Run toward your personal desires and don’t be afraid to step into the spotlight. The stars will reward you for being courageous and there’s a call toward exercising your natural magnanimous seductiveness. Pushing the envelop will surely attract the power you so erotically crave.

SAGITTARIUS: While evermore drawn to what’s exotic, unpredictable, and fun, the centaur begins roaming more sensitive and vulnerable

pastures this month. Amidst all the adventure, be sure to take stock into your feelings and sensitivity. While kink and liveliness aren’t out of your comfort zone, processing what’s going on beneath the surface is. Make sure to honor your feelings to ensure your actions are in alignment with your true desires. Your personal life is favored during this period, so take a little time for you, Sag!

CAPRICORN: It’s time to step into your personal power and make dramatic leaps forward, both in your sexuality and your community, Cap! Whether it’s connecting deeper with others and expanding your network, dating and meeting new people, or exercising your boundaries and focusing on your personal growth, this month comes in with force. Sexually, you’ll be attracted to dominance and verbal play, and there is a curiosity to learning from others in order to expand your own sexual repertoire. Strength is in your corner, Cap – get it, baby!

AQUARIUS: Slow down, Aqua – it’s time to take stock and focus on creating stability in your life. Rather than viewing a moderate rate as boring, view this leisurely pace as an opportunity to further develop pleasure, beauty, and sensuality. Whether it’s exchanging massage and deep sensual love-making with a partner or pampering yourself with bubble baths, relaxing music, and good food, take a break from the whirlwind and embrace the divinity of satisfaction. You’re in for a well-needed rest – don’t be afraid to take some time off, dear water bearer!

PISCES: With Mars transiting Pisces this month, you can expect to be hornier, more assertive, and stepping into a more assertive way of being. Whether you prefer topping, bottoming, or siding is irrelevant as you step into actively pursuing the things that make you feel good. From monetary gain, sexual gratification, or simply building up your self-esteem through exercising, positive self-talk, or other personal goals, the planets smile on your effort towards self-empowerment transformation. No one’s gonna hit their goals like you will this month, Pisces!

Wednesday's:

Trivia | Starts at 7 PM.

(Every week)

Friday's:"Name That Tune" between 8pm and 10pm (Every week)

Saturday's:

karaoke | starts at 10 PM (Every week)

Sunday's:pool tournament starts at 4 pm (Every week)

5534 Secor Rd, Toledo OH (across from Brondes Ford)

There’s a sense of safety knowing PrEP can reduce your chance of getting HIV by 99%. See what other Michiganders say about it and take the next steps.

Michigan.gov/MIPrEP

Hook-up from hell Hook-up from hell Hook-up from hell

It was St. Patrick’s weekend, we all know how wild things can get. All of the gold, green and shamrocks. I usually stay in because one year I stumbled into a bar and ended up in a sumo wrestling contest that involved green jello and a mini pool. It scared me for quite awhile.

This last year I decided I’d break the tradition of staying in. The reason is only because my best friend decided having a bachelor party the weekend of St. Patrick’s would be the most fun? Not me! I’d made sure to wear something green to avoid being pinched.

I lived fairly close by the venue we were meeting up at. I had a gift in hand that I thought would be perfect. A little erotic, fun and everyone could use it. I was about a block away and some guy dressed in green was running toward me. My reaction was to book it, I didn’t know what was happening.

I started walking faster and he was getting closer, in no time he was right in front of me. He grabbed the bag out of my

hands and ran west. I took off after him, trying to keep up and I couldn’t. I decided to just go to the party without the gift, it was a great night. After all events were done I headed home.

On the walk home I decided to retrace the steps from when I was bag snatched. I figured I wouldn’t have any success of finding the person, or gift. I was walking for what seemed like awhile, I was a little tipsy and was singing aloud. I was walking by this building and heard a noise, or so I thought. I sure did!

As I was walking up the building the noises started getting louder and louder. As I’m approach I see the bag on the ground, the box, paper and all. I look over to my left and they had the double ended dildo that I got my friend, they looked at me and said they struck GOLD. I asked them why and I said “please don’t answer that”.

I told the guy to keep it and I took off running to the hills, back home. At least the gift got used.

“You clean?”

The most annoying, insensitive, and offensive thing you can say to someone living with HIV. Being on dating apps, hook up sites, social media, or whatever your method of cruising may be, the question of being clean always comes up, right? Your nameless, faceless fuck boy wants to make sure they don’t catch anything. But when someone asks if you are clean, and you’re undetectable, what do you say? Asking if someone is clean implies that there’s a chance you are dirty. And no one living with HIV is dirty (well, maybe the dude who doesn’t clean his smegma).

You could say “I’m clean but I’m HIV undetectable” you could

lie and just say you are clean. Or, you can take the opportunity to educate your potential nighttime lover. When asked this question I always respond with “I’m STI negative and undetectable.” This leaves the door open for discussion, or not. If they know what that means, then you don’t need to explain yourself. But if they say “hold up, so you got AIDS?” or whatever offensive comment they may say you can say “no, not AIDS, but HIV undetectable, meaning I carry the virus, but it can’t be measured by a lab test.” Most guys will say “oh, ok... so my place or yours?” The douche bags will show themselves very quickly, and let’s be honest, you don’t need that in your life.

Remember if you are living with a House In Virginia, you are not dirty, you are still fuckable, and someone loves you!

Winter Boondocking