Metra Issue 968 - AUG 2023

National Advertising: Rivendell Media 212-242-6863

Social Media: Bright Torch Media

Distributors: Eddie Desormeau Peter Rene

Wade Mercury UPS

Publication of the name of photograph of any person or organization in articles in METRA Magazine is not to be construed as an indication of the sexual organization of such person or organization. All copy text, display photos and illustrations in advertising are published with the understanding that the advertisers are fully authorized, have secured proper consents (written, verbal, e-mail, etc..) forthe use of names, pictures or testimonials of any living person(s) and METRA Magazine may lawfully publish and cause such publication to be made and advertiser automatically agrees to by submitting said ad and to indemnify and save blameless the publisher from any and all liability loss and expense of any nature of such publication. Nothing appearing in METRA Magazine may be reprinted either wholly or in part without written permission/e-mail from the publishers. Writings in Publication do not necessarily reflect the beliefs and opinions of leadership of the publication.

Around Town

Bars,

Camp Grounds

6:45 PM – 7:00 PM

LILIANNA ANGEL REYES (RUTH ELLIS CENTER) INTRODUCTION TO THE DETROIT BALLROOM SCENE FOLLOWED BY AMIE GARCON IN A VOGUE DANCE ROUTINE.

MISS GAY MICHIGAN AMERICA

7:00 PM – 7:15 PM

You’re cordially invited to an event we have been waiting almost 30 years for... ...an evening for the community unlike any other; red carpet gala and fierce pageantry.

WELCOMING AND OPENING REMARKS; JAY KAPLAN (ACLU OF MICHIGAN LGBTQ+ PROJECT) & JEYNCE POINDEXTER (RUTH ELLIS CENTER)

ITINERARY IN BRIEF:

5:00 PM – 6:45 PM VIP GALA; RED CARPET / HOLLYWOOD GLAM

6:45 PM – 7:00 PM

7:15 PM - 11:00 PM

LILIANNA ANGEL REYES (RUTH ELLIS CENTER) INTRODUCTION TO THE DETROIT BALLROOM SCENE FOLLOWED BY AMIE GARCON IN A VOGUE DANCE ROUTINE.

MISS GAY MICHIGAN AMERI CA PAGEANT, HOSTED BY MISS GAY AMERICA 2022 & MISS GAY AMERICA 2023

7:00 PM – 7:15 PM

WELCOMING AND OPENING REMARKS; JAY KAPLAN (ACLU OF MICHIGAN LGBTQ+ PROJECT) & JEYNCE POINDEXTER (RUTH ELLIS CENTER)

7:15 PM - 11:00 PM

MISS GAY MICHIGAN AMERI CA PAGEANT, HOSTED BY MISS GAY AMERICA 2022 & MISS GAY AMERICA 2023

Saint Andrews Hall 431 E Congress St. Detroit, Michigan 48226

SATURDAY AUGUST 12

Saint Andrews Hall 431 E Congress St. Detroit, Michigan 48226

MISS GAY MICHIGAN AMERICA

GET TICKETS NOW AT

SATURDAY AUGUST 12 GET TICKETS NOW AT MISS GAY MICHIGAN AMERICA

TICKETS STARTING FROM $35.00

TICKETS STARTING FROM $35.00

When I was first diagnosed with my House In Virginia, one of the scariest things I remember facing was the state’s “disclosure law.” What this basically said was “if you have HIV, regardless of your overall health or viral load levels, you must tell any sexual partner about your status.” In other words, someone with HIV could be criminally prosecuted for something as simple as a handy or a blowy if they didn’t reveal to their partner their status first. While common courtesy would say that someone with any preexisting condition should tell their partner, this was different. That law specifically targeted gay men and was used to embarrass and prosecute those living with HIV;

essentially making living with this condition a crime.

During a recent doctor’s visit I was reminded of some important changes in the law. Today, someone with this condition is not legally obligated to disclose their status if they are on an antiretroviral treatment, their viral load is undetectable, and if there is no willful intention to cause harm to their partner. This is a huge step forward for those living with a House In Virginia. There is no longer that fear hanging over your head about whether or not you will be prosecuted for a simple hand-job.

Love = Love and U = U.

Undetectable = Untransmittable

UPCOMING SUMMER LEAGUES

Sundays, 12pm-2pm

Registration Dates: 07/ 29 - 0 8/ 12

League Dates: 0 8/ 27 - 1 0/ 29

Thursdays, 6pm-8pm

Registration Dates: 07/ 10 - 07/ 28

League Dates: 0 8/0 1 - 09/ 26

Real Estate Talk with Realtor Kory

Hey Cuties!

I want to talk about something serious right now that is affecting our community across the nation. We are seeing our rights being challenged and taken away in real time!! So, these are the cities that have specific ordinances that prohibit housing discrimination based on sexual orientation and/or gender identity: Detroit, Dearborn Heights, Ferndale, Huntington Woods, Birmingham, Flint, Grand Ledge, Grand Rapids, Kalamazoo, Ypsilanti, Ann Arbor, Saugatuck, Douglas, East Lansing, Lansing, Mt. Pleasant, Saginaw, and Traverse City. It is so important to live in an area that will protect you from discrimination in the housing market just for being on the LGBTQ spectrum!

Everyone please register to vote if you haven’t already, because there has been a war placed on our community, but we have the power to protect our rights that they are trying to take away! Please be safe out there.

Check out my TikTok for more Real Estate tips, @ realtorkory or contact me today for all your real estate needs!

Email, DM, Text, or Call because I do it all!

-Kory Lambarth

Lions and Tigers and BEARS, oh yes!

Bears can become aggressive, and sometimes kinky, when defending their young.

The Hayloft Saloon, located at 8070 Greenfield Road in Detroit, is the bar for big game hunters, looking for that elusive, manly bear roaming the wild.

While on the hunt, patrons can enjoy a cold beer to cool down after checking out the hot men. Use caution, however, when attempting to snag a cub; Daddy

While mama bears are of course welcome to The Hayloft , this watering hole tends to attract the daddy bears. During mating season (which lasts from January to December) daddy bears can be found cruising the bar to find a mate to breed. Scientists are baffled though, that this immense and frequent breeding has not yet produced viable offspring between the male bears.

If you are looking for a challenging hunt, we highly recommend checking out The Hayloft Saloon , just make sure you pack a big… hunting rifle.

Affirmations Spotlight

How long have you been with Affirmations? I've been on staff since March 2023 but I've been involved with Affirmations since 2014 as a volunteer and board member.

What is Affirmations to you? Initially, Affirmations helped me connect to and support my community. However, after seeing firsthand how vital the center's programs and services are to the LGBTQ+ community, I realized it's a lifeline.

When you’re not working, what do you do for fun? There is no better stress buster than laughing with loved ones. But, I also enjoy time alone to read, listen to music, and snuggle my emotional support cat, Lemmy.

If you could be any TV character IRL, who would you be? I like TV dramas and, of course, I'm drawn to shows with strong female protagonists. I'd choose badass, Olivia Pope, from Scandal.

Cheryl Czach, Deputy Executive Director (Executive Director 2024)

What’s something you want everyone to know about Affirmations? I often hear people say "Wow, I had no idea you offered that" when I talk to people about Affirmations' programs and services. So, I encourage everyone to follow us on Facebook, Instagram, or TikTok! Each week we post about what's happening at the center. It's a great way to connect with us.

SATURDAY'S: BOYZ NIGHT OUT

UNDERWEAR CONTEST

As Pride Month shines a light on the LGBTQ+ community and its accomplishments, renowned therapist Joe Kort joins the celebration by emphasizing the importance of embracing one’s identity, promoting personal safety, and fostering a culture of inclusivity. Kort, known for his expertise in sexuality and relationships, encourages individuals to explore their authentic selves while providing valuable insights and practical tips for navigating the journey.

“Personal authenticity and self-expression should always be honored, regardless of whether one chooses to participate in pride festivals or parades. Everyone’s journey is unique, and it is perfectly acceptable to embrace our own paths and decide what feels right for us,” says Kort. “The power lies in honoring and celebrating our true selves in whatever form that may take, for it is through embracing our authentic identities that we can truly thrive and inspire others to do the same.”

Kort provides the following tips to celebrate Pride not just in June, but every day:

Embracing Acceptance: Acknowledge that not everyone will immediately accept your authentic self. Joe advises practicing patience while ensuring that your voice is heard. Understand that acceptance can take time for some individuals as they adjust their perspectives and understandings. By maintaining an open dialogue, educating others, and advocating for your identity, you can foster understanding and acceptance over time.

Identity Education: People may occasionally forget how to use pronouns and keep track of your identity. Joe emphasizes the importance of forgiveness and kindness in these situations. Understand that mistakes can happen, and it takes time for others to adjust. By gently correcting them and providing guidance on the use of pronouns, you can create a more inclusive and respectful environment, allowing others to learn and grow in their understanding of your identity.

Pride Participation: Remember that it is perfectly acceptable if you choose not to attend pride festivals or parades. Not every LGBTQ+ person feels the need for a larger community or public celebration. Your personal authenticity and self-expression should be honored, regardless of whether

Safety First: Prioritize your safety when considering coming out. Joe advises being aware of potential risks and checking in with trusted individuals in your life. Seek their perspectives and opinions on the timing and recipients of your coming-out journey. By involving supportive allies and engaging in open conversations, you can ensure a safer and more supportive environment during this vulnerable and transformative process.

Unique Journeys: Avoid comparing your coming out process to that of others. Each person’s journey is unique, and there is no one-sizefits-all approach. Joe emphasizes that some individuals opt for a gradual “inviting in” approach, sharing their truth with one person at a time, while others may choose a more public announcement. Respect your own path and pace, embracing your individual journey with self-compassion and confidence.

Celebrating Personal Identity: It is entirely normal and empowering to have a boutique identity that authentically represents who you are. Joe encourages individuals to embrace their unique experiences and expressions, even going as far as creating new words or terms to accurately convey their identities. Honor your self-defined terms and kindly request that others respect and use them as well. By celebrating and validating diverse identities, we can foster an inclusive environment that values and uplifts the richness of individual self-expression.

Embrace New Bedroom Experiences: Remember that sexual exploration should always be consensual, safe, and based on open communication. By embracing these principles, individuals can embark on new adventures, fostering trust, intimacy, and mutual satisfaction within their relationships. Joe recommends using Trojan Bareskin Raw Non Latex condoms for both protection and heightened sensitivity with Trojan Arouses and Intensifies Lube to enhance intimacy and comfort. Openly communicate desires and preferences, as effective communication is vital for creating fulfilling and satisfying experiences.

“As we celebrate Pride Month, let us remember the importance of embracing our true selves, celebrating our unique journeys, and fostering a world that values and uplifts diversity,” said Kort.

For more information, visit Joe Kort’s website.

if you're wanting to have some fun and connect with someone, make sure you visit your local gay bath house.

support your local gay bar.

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

“I hooked up with a guy for a little while and we both got pretty comfortable with each other. After the 4th or 5th visit, he said he had a big surprise for me if I was down for our next visit. I told him, yes, I’m looking forward to what trick he had up his sleeve. About a week goes by and he texts, same drill, come over after 11pm. This time he mentioned that he was just going to leave the door unlocked and to come in to the bedroom, just make sure you lock the front door after you arrive.

I walk into his master bedroom and he was dressed as a baby. Diaper, bonnet, rattle and pacifier. He coo’ed with excitement and smiled big behind the binkey. He took out his pacifier and in a nice deep Dean from Supernatural voice, he commanded: “Give baby his nom nom’s.” I was frozen in absolute shock. I shakingly started to undo my jean zipper

and then I stopped. My raging hard-on that I had prior to walking into the house is completely flaccid.

The giant baby started picking up the hint that this really wasn’t my jush. Before I could say anything else, he jumped on me like when Super Mario is wearing that crazy squirrel outfit. He is screaming, turning red and demanding to “give baby my Daddy Juice.” Making my terrified soft penis turn inside out and tuck itself into my upper canal (going from a good size outtie to a terrified innie). I donkey kicked him off of me and he went flying back onto his bed. When I hear a squish sound as he lands on the bed, realizing this 6 foot 3 tall and 250lb man just shit himself. That was it, I ran out the front door and drove home. I am all about expressing your kinks, but when it comes to that kink, it’s a no from me, dawg.”

ARIES: Revaluate your sexy propositions for better new future outcomes, pay attention to big dick that you’re craving. you could be overthinking something by making it a quicky. All details matter in this month. Just like how Ru says, “Don’t fuck it up!” or you be ending summer out without any Napkins!

TAURUS: When you use your mouth for more than just sucking that dick and sexting how you like it. You end up seeing that you can have your Cake and eat it too. Even face to face is hot too. It might seem to be a lot of work, but you’re able to learn faster now with clarity & eloquence cause of previous conversations & situations.

GEMINI: You Got to Rest before you can go round 2! Some guys are One Cum Wonders and that’s ok, be proud of that. But You are not listening to your body and Mental Battle within is real. If you just Sexify like the Show things could work out better than just taking the Bear Minimum! No one is keeping score these days, just saying.

CANCER: You are very “Ass for Gas” this month. By being resourceful, not lazy, you are able to push your limits and go deeper than you ever had been before. You need to be frugal for sex but ready like the Twinks into Kinks. The more provocative you seem to be the more you Get a head. Go have angry sex and chill out.

LEO: With every mouth that is open with you in the spotlight, you tend to have your

brown eye pucker for the flavor of the month. Keep it going and times are good, but you can be exhausted. Stop it soon and the Cum Train leaves. Cum into too many and watch the chaos unfold with only few walking away. You kind of get a do over Mid-month. Try to be Supportive to Score.

VIRGO: Don’t Just fuck everyone from the beginning of the month, save energy near the end, your sphincter will thank you later. Fuck the “blow and go’s” and do not waste time on masturbation. There is so much more out there to explore then the Closeted Neighbor that willing to do anything, but finding out that all he wanted was his dick sucked.

LIBRA: You got to be balanced or be willing to get the sloppiest seconds ever! Aim for that guy that you feel out of your league, take a chance at something that you normally don’t do to have a summer memory that you be jacking off to for the next 3 years. This is the time to improve your life. Don’t quit on anything you might regret later.

SCORPIO: You are more woke than tired but for some reason you are missing something, small details overlooked now will bring in more confusion to solutions later this month that you need to solve. Maybe a misplaced phone number down to an address to that hot as guy you wrote on junk mail. You don’t want to be going through the trash.

SAGITTARIUS: Booty in the Nightlife is about to shift for you and now it is the time to start planning things vs doing them. Start a new bucket list and to do list. The price might be right, or the location is free for booking. If you do things ahead of time for Fall you will have a better outcome. Seek new opportunities to gain more!

CAPRICORN: Your so Productive or Your being pampered maybe both! You can spark all sorts of attention that is bring all the men to your yard. Keep doing what is working, fixing something that is not needed will bring nothing but blue balls and sore nipples. Keep the Fun going and you seem to be on fire!

AQUARIUS: This is not a time to be a “know it all” If you have no clue about it, stay out of it. The whole situation could leave teeth marks on your cock and a nasty taste in your mouth from that Silicone lube. By Even knowing the facts the turn out will be a bigger let down worse than any disappointments that you think that it causes.

PISCES: What Chaos is for the Tweek is normal for the Beefcake. Everyone has something going on the orgy and you might be the scapegoat to someone you want no part in. Communication is Challenging to some fuck boys around you. Articulate with precise wording so no one is guessing what you said. It will save you from bad situations that pop up this month.

Drag is going very strong across the state of Michigan thanks to national media like RuPaul's Drag Race, The Boulet Brothers' Dragula, Camp Wannakiki and others. One fine day on vacation, Trevor Staub (his Mom calls him Mr. Entertainment) attended a packed drag brunch. Throughout the show he thought "why does this not exist in Michigan?" Over the next few months, the magic of the future MI Drag Brunch started to come together. Sourcing venues to host local drag shows, Staub quickly discovered some incredible local artists. Making their debut as GR Drag Brunch, in July 2018 it was quickly realized that Michigan was hungry for entertainment. In efforts to fulfill the demand rebranding as Michigan Drag Brunch was in order. Two separately produced shows tour around the entire state of Michigan each an d every Sunday. Premiering at Linear Restaurant, in Downtown Grand Rapids, the MI Drag Brunch Team is constantly working to improve the experience for audience members and help entertainers evolve to increase their potential.

Six day work weeks are often done to maintain a dynamic company like MI Drag Brunch. They are always looking for future opportunities to make sense to feature local drag and are a lways looking for new and exciting partnership opportunities. From strategic partners to venues, focusing on companies that meet event qualifications, but are also passionate in welcoming MI Drag Brunch into their space, and ensuring it is a Safe Space. It was incredibly important for Staub to offer a wide assortment of different types of drag in MI Drag Brunch. Their permanent entertainers are called, “The Brunchettes.” When it came to casting the Brunchettes, it was an absolute must for entertainers to possess a level of professionalism but also entertainers who knew their identity and character. Brunchettes are selected to present different styles and types of drag. “Representation matters, and it’s a firm belief that the Brunchettes contributed to just as much of our success” said Staub.

A sneak -peak into the man behind the curtain: In 2014, Trevor graduated from the American Musical and Dramatic Academy, in New York City. After working professionally off Broadway, Trevor needed to move home to help with my family. Trevor began working in the hospitality industry, and quickly became unfulfilled. “Premiering MI Drag Brunch was a true merging combination of my life’s experience through art and hospitality, infusing my background, skills and community.” When Trevor isn’t producing MI Drag Brunch, you can find him performing in theatre, film, and print throughout the state of Michigan.

Recently, Trevor and team celebrated their five year anniversary of brunching all over Michigan. A red-carpet gala was held at JW Marriott in Grand Rapids in their International Ballroom. Current Brunchettes, past entertainers, friends, partners, and family all came together to celebrate this huge milestone. It was truly a night to remember.

MI Drag Brunch hosts shows all over the State of Michigan. We encourage you to Support Local Drag, by going to a show and looking up some of the fierce talent that’s affiliated with MI Drag Brunch (like/follow/tip on socials and cash pay apps). Especially today, with t he heightened climate of the world, we must support Small Businesses (like MI Drag Brunch and others).

Wednesday's:

Trivia | Starts at 7 PM.

(Every week)

Friday's:"Name

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)

LARGE BAR & OUTDOOR PATIO AREA