» THE FRIVOLIST
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EVENTS CALENDAR
AUGUST 9–23, 2017 • p20
6 Reasons Why Gay People Are a Higher Form of Evolution P F FACEBOOK.COM/MONTROSESTAR
THE PARTY STARTS HERE!
WEDNESDAY AUGUST 9, 2017 e VOL. VIII, 10
TODRICK HALL »
Houston Rainbow Herald
» Foodie Diaries
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» What a World
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INDEX Editorial Crossword A Couple of Guys
5 26 28
Found His Yellow Brick Road
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PAGE 2 | Montrose Star e | Wednesday August 9, 2017
YOU MATTER AND SO DOES YOUR HEALTH
That’s why starting and staying on HIV-1 treatment is so important.
WHAT IS DESCOVY®? DESCOVY is a prescription medicine that is used together with other HIV-1 medicines to treat HIV-1 in people 12 years and older. DESCOVY is not for use to help reduce the risk of getting HIV-1 infection. DESCOVY combines 2 medicines into 1 pill taken once a day. Because DESCOVY by itself is not a complete treatment for HIV-1, it must be used together with other HIV-1 medicines.
•
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.
•
Bone problems, such as bone pain, softening, or thinning, which may lead to fractures. Your healthcare provider may do tests to check your bones.
DESCOVY does not cure HIV-1 or AIDS. To control HIV-1 infection and decrease HIV-related illnesses, you must keep taking DESCOVY. Ask your healthcare provider if you have questions about how to reduce the risk of passing HIV-1 to others. Always practice safer sex and use condoms to lower the chance of sexual contact with body fluids. Never reuse or share needles or other items that have body fluids on them.
The most common side effect of DESCOVY is nausea. Tell your healthcare provider if you have any side effects that bother you or don’t go away. What should I tell my healthcare provider before taking DESCOVY?
IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION
•
All your health problems. Be sure to tell your healthcare provider if you have or have had any kidney, bone, or liver problems, including hepatitis virus infection.
DESCOVY may cause serious side effects: • Worsening of hepatitis B (HBV) infection. DESCOVY is not approved to treat HBV. If you have both HIV-1 and HBV and stop taking DESCOVY, your HBV may suddenly get worse. Do not stop taking DESCOVY without first talking to your healthcare provider, as they will need to monitor your health.
•
All the medicines you take, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements. Other medicines may affect how DESCOVY works. Keep a list of all your medicines and show it to your healthcare provider and pharmacist. Ask your healthcare provider if it is safe to take DESCOVY with all of your other medicines.
•
If you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. It is not known if DESCOVY can harm your unborn baby. Tell your healthcare provider if you become pregnant while taking DESCOVY.
•
If you are breastfeeding (nursing) or plan to breastfeed. Do not breastfeed. HIV-1 can be passed to the baby in breast milk.
What is the most important information I should know about DESCOVY?
What are the other possible side effects of DESCOVY? Serious side effects of DESCOVY may also include: • Changes in your immune system. Your immune system may get stronger and begin to fight infections. Tell your healthcare provider if you have any new symptoms after you start taking DESCOVY. •
•
Kidney problems, including kidney failure. Your healthcare provider should do blood and urine tests to check your kidneys. Your healthcare provider may tell you to stop taking DESCOVY if you develop new or worse kidney problems. 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.
You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit www.fda.gov/medwatch, or call 1-800-FDA-1088. Please see Important Facts about DESCOVY, including important warnings, on the following page.
Ask your healthcare provider if an HIV-1 treatment that contains DESCOVY® is right for you.
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Montrose Star e | Wednesday August 9, 2017 | PAGE 3
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IMPORTANT FACTS
This is only a brief summary of important information about DESCOVY® and does not replace talking to your healthcare provider about your condition and your treatment.
(des-KOH-vee) MOST IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT DESCOVY
POSSIBLE SIDE EFFECTS OF DESCOVY
DESCOVY may cause serious side effects, including: • Worsening of hepatitis B (HBV) infection. DESCOVY is not approved to treat HBV. If you have both HIV-1 and HBV, your HBV may suddenly get worse if you stop taking DESCOVY. Do not stop taking DESCOVY without first talking to your healthcare provider, as they will need to check your health regularly for several months.
DESCOVY can cause serious side effects, including: • Those in the “Most Important Information About DESCOVY” section. • Changes in your immune system. • New or worse kidney problems, including kidney failure. • 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. • Bone problems. The most common side effect of DESCOVY is nausea. These are not all the possible side effects of DESCOVY. Tell your healthcare provider right away if you have any new symptoms while taking DESCOVY. Your healthcare provider will need to do tests to monitor your health before and during treatment with DESCOVY.
ABOUT DESCOVY • DESCOVY is a prescription medicine that is used together with other HIV-1 medicines to treat HIV-1 in people 12 years of age and older. DESCOVY is not for use to help reduce the risk of getting HIV-1 infection. • DESCOVY does not cure HIV-1 or AIDS. Ask your healthcare provider about how to prevent passing HIV-1 to others.
BEFORE TAKING DESCOVY Tell your healthcare provider if you: • Have or had any kidney, bone, or liver problems, including hepatitis infection. • Have any other medical condition. • Are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. • Are breastfeeding (nursing) or plan to breastfeed. Do not breastfeed if you have HIV-1 because of the risk of passing HIV-1 to your baby. Tell your healthcare provider about all the medicines you take: • Keep a list that includes all prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements, and show it to your healthcare provider and pharmacist. • Ask your healthcare provider or pharmacist about medicines that should not be taken with DESCOVY.
GET MORE INFORMATION • This is only a brief summary of important information about DESCOVY. Talk to your healthcare provider or pharmacist to learn more. • Go to DESCOVY.com or call 1-800-GILEAD-5 • If you need help paying for your medicine, visit DESCOVY.com for program information.
HOW TO TAKE DESCOVY • DESCOVY is a one pill, once a day HIV-1 medicine that is taken with other HIV-1 medicines.
• Take DESCOVY with or without food.
DESCOVY, the DESCOVY Logo, LOVE WHAT’S INSIDE, GILEAD, and the GILEAD Logo are trademarks of Gilead Sciences, Inc., or its related companies. All other marks referenced herein are the property of their respective owners. Version date: April 2017 © 2017 Gilead Sciences, Inc. All rights reserved. DVYC0055 07/17
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Montrose Star e | Wednesday August 9, 2017 | PAGE 5
OP-ED
Creep of the Week: Donald Trump e by
d’anne witkowski
O
TOC AUGUST 9, 2017 | VOL. VIII, 10
“ So is Trump’s tweet
n July 26 at 8:55 a.m. Donald Trump tweeted: “After consultation with my Generals and military experts, please be advised that the United States Government will not accept or allow……” For nine long minutes there was no followup tweet. In fact, some members of the Pentagon initially feared that Trump was about to declare war. It turns out that Trump was declaring war, only it wasn’t on North Korea. It was on transgender troops right here in the United States. He followed his initial tweet with two more that read,“…. Transgender individuals to serve in any capacity in the U.S. Military. Our military must be focused on decisive and overwhelming victory and cannot be burdened with the tremendous medical costs and disruption that transgender in the military would entail. Thank you.” Yes, he really ended the third tweet with “Thank you,” you know, like a Commander In Chief does when he’s singled out a vulnerable minority in his own country’s military and fired them, opening them up for scorn and ridicule. Since this radical policy change we’ve seen many different responses to it. Everything from “the military spends more money on Viagra than it does on trans health care” to “Uh, we’re the generals and military experts and we weren’t told shit about this” to “Trump is a draft dodger who should be thankful there are people willing to volunteer for the armed forces.” In fact, as of July 31, the Pentagon had received no formal guidance regarding trans troops, according to ABC News. And until that happens, well, nothing really happens. So is Trump’s tweet just a meaningless temper tantrum? Hardly. Note that President Obama lifted the ban on trans service members. Conservatives were not happy. The Family Research Council’s Tony Perkins, for example, lamented back
in December that “feminists” and “the left” were emasculating the military’s culture “of manhood and masculinity.” The right-wing demonization of transgender people has been unrelenting in the past few years. Having lost the battle against marriage equality, keeping trans folks out of public restrooms became the new right-wing obsession. And since they couldn’t keep gays and lesbians out of the military, they’ve moved the goal posts again and put trans troops in the crosshairs. And they see Trump as their political savior. And Trump, who loves to be fawned over, is more than happy to sacrifice trans troops if it means that the religious right will stick by him and his total failure of a presidency. As Alex Wagner pointed out in Slate, trans troops are already serving. Wagner warns that if Trump’s tweets become policy it would result in “a horrifying witch hunt” “The military will be tasked to delve into the private lives of our armed forces to identify trans troops—who were, just a year ago, encouraged to serve openly,” Wagner writes. “Such a purge of transgender individuals from the ranks would represent an unprecedented attempt to socially engineer a military that is finally is open to all Americans who can meet its high standards.” Imagine being a trans troop member, open and brave and serving your country. And the President of the United States publicly declares you an enemy. Trump, of course, cannot meet and never has met the military’s high standards, or the high standards of the presidency, for that matter. He can’t even meet the most basic standards of human decency. Trump is a failure and a fraud. Lashing out against Americans who are dedicated to this country and willing to risk their lives for it, when Trump is neither, is beyond shameful. e
just a meaningless temper tantrum? Hardly.
”
COOKING WITH PAULA DREAM
For summer Light and easy eats
20
D’Anne Witkowski is a poet, writer and comedian living in Michigan with her wife and son. She has been writing about LGBT politics for over a decade. Follow her on Twitter @MamaDWitkowski.
DEEP INSIDE HOLLYWOOD
L Word revival in development
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OP-ED.................................................................. 5 HRH Report ....................................................... 6 Out at the Theatre ........................................... 7 What A World ................................................... 8 The Frivolist ..................................................... 12 Rising Star ........................................................ 14 Celebrity Feature ........................................... 19 Cooking With Paula Dream ....................... 20 Foodie Diaries ................................................. 21 Next2Weeks Community Calendar ......... 22 Across the Causeway.................................... 23 Crossword Queeries ..................................... 26 Deep Inside Hollywood ............................... 29 Guide To The Clubs ...................................... 30 HouPaul: All Things RuPaul in Houston .. 31 ©2016 MONTROSE STAR All Rights Reserved.
WAIVER:
CORRECTIONS & AMPLIFICATIONS:
August 9, 2017: None as of press time. +1 Google+ Find us on P F Facebook.com & P
PAGE 6 | Montrose Star e | Wednesday August 9, 2017
6 HRH Report
Crowning Glory, the President’s Full Throttle Attack on LGBTs and Other Top Stories e By
JoHnny TRliCa
O
ur President took a little flak recently when he was quoted in Golf Magazine referring to the White House as a “real dump.” That could explain why he has spent so much time away from there, instead spending nearly every weekend at one of his own resorts, at great public expense. But is the White House really a dump? Trump may have gotten this one right. After all, dumps are filled with rats, usually occupied by low life hooligans and are full of leaks. Here is a bit of what we’ve been reading at HoustonRainbowHerald.com.
JIM AYRES by day is an employee benefits and human resources writer. By night he turns his creativity toward the local food and restaurant scene. Do you know of a restaurant that needs a review? Info@montrose-star.com JOHN BUCHANAN is originally from Florida but now calls Houston home for 20+ years. “Proud to be Gay and part of the Community – Your Gay Realtor of Choice!” johnwb214@aol.com NANCY FORD has enjoyed a front row seat to the most remarkable and sparkly Cultural Revolution in the history of mankind. “What a world!” She reflects appropriately. After moving to Houston from Ohio in 1981, Ford became a highly visible player in Texas’ LGBT publishing circles as an editor and contributor to myriad other local and statewide LGBT magazines and newspapers. RANDALL JOBE has been a fixture in the Houston LGBT Community for several decades in marketing and promotions for top nightclubs, as an actor/director/writer for dozens of theatrical productions, and is also known for his whimsical art pieces. He is the author of the 12-part series “This Old Queen”, which summarized his many experiences living in the gay Mecca, Montrose. MARK KARIEL is from Marshall, Texas, but has called Houston home for almost 40 years. An accounting supervisor by day, he can be found working most Saturday nights at South Beach’s RuPaul’s Drag Race events. His RuPaul obsession began 6 years ago in Palm Springs. It will all be in his book, plus much more. Stay tuned! mark@sobehouston.com FOREST RIGGS is no stranger to the adventures of life, he bills himself as a “raconteur with a gypsy spirit.” A former educator, public speaker, hospital administrator, counselor and gay B&B owner, he was instrumental in the formation of OutSmart Magazine in the early 1990s. He has written for several newspapers, magazines and other publications. Recently he completed a collection of short stories about his beloved Galveston and is working on a novel. He currently resides on the island where he can be found wasting bait and searching for the meaning of life. JOHNNY TRLICA has called the Houston area home all of his life. Four years ago he founded and still edits the Houston Rainbow Herald and has worked in the apartment leasing industry for the past two years. His passion is keeping the battle for LGBT rights at the forefront of today’s headlines and fighting complacency in the LGBT community.
Photo by Michael Andrew Voight via Houston Press
T H E S TA R C O N T R I B U T I N G W R I T E R S
Violet S’Arbleu crowned Miss Gay Texas America Drag is more popular than ever as witnessed by the enormous popularity of RuPaul’s Drag Race and nearly every gay bar (and some straight ones) now hosting drag shows on a regular timetable. Houston Press’ Sam Byrd recently wrote a featurelength article on a drag pageant; it’s all about Houston’s Violet S’Arbleu, the newly crowned Miss Gay Texas America. Previous winners of the Miss Gay Texas America pageant include Hot Chocolate (1978), Tasha Kohl (1982), Sabrina Delorean (1983), Lauren Taylor (1996), Kofi (1998), Tara Dion (2001) and Kara Dion (2012), and Dessie Love-Blake (2014). In speaking of the 43 year history of the pageant, Violet S’Arbleu told HP: “Honestly, I’m just so humbled and thrilled to have the honor to join those ranks and represent the system this year.” S’Arbleu, AKA Jacob Chaput, said, “I’m looking forward to leaving a mark on Miss Gay Texas. I won this year because I was the most aware of who I am, and that led me to success. I want to encourage others to do the same, to think about who they are, and show who they are.” Read the entire story at HoustonPress.com. President moves to ban transgenders from military It all started with a tweet: “After consultation with my Generals and military experts, please be advised that the United States Government will not accept or allow transgender individuals to serve in any capacity in the U.S. Military. Our military must be focused on decisive and overwhelming victory and cannot be burdened with the tremendous medical costs and disruption that transgender in the military would entail.” The Tweeter-in-Chief had spoken. While tweets are not law, the content of those tweets has been made into “A Guidance Policy for Open Transgender Service Phase Out” by White House staff and the White House Counsel approved the policy as legal “guidance,” reports the LosAngelesBlade.com. An unnamed source speaking to The Blade said, “The administration want[s] to get rid of +1 Google+ F Facebook.com & P Find us on P
transgender service members as fast as they can.” The military should encourage early retirement and fire transgender people up for promotion in order to purge the military of the estimated 15,000 transgender people working for it, the report stated. Trump’s DOJ says Title VII does not protect gays from discrimination Yes folks, elections really do have consequences. CNN reports: “The Justice Department filed an amicus brief Wednesday [July 26] saying that Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 does not cover employment ‘discrimination based on sexual orientation.’” The DOJ filed the brief in the case of Donald Zarda, who had filed suit against his former employer Altitude Express in a case that questions whether sexual orientation is included in Title VII’s protections. Title VII prohibits employment discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex and national origin.” According to the DOJ’s brief, “The sole question here is whether, as a matter of law, Title VII reaches sexual orientation discrimination. It does not, as has been settled for decades. Any efforts to amend Title VII’s scope should be directed to Congress rather than the courts.” It concluded that “Title VII does not prohibit discrimination because of sexual orientation.” The American Civil Liberties Union blasted the DOJ’s position as a “gratuitous and extraordinary attack on LGBT people’s civil Violet S’Arbleu. rights.” The ACLU promised to continue the fight in the courts. Former Texas governor Mark White dies at 77 “Do right and risk the consequences.” That quote was attributed to Sam Houston but was used frequently by Mark White. The former Texas Governor died August 5 at his home in Houston, reported KTRK Channel 13. He was 77. The Democrat championed public education reforms that included the landmark “no-pass, no-play” policy for high school athletes during his single term in office, 1983-87. “He cared about Texas deeply,” his son said. “He realized that this wasn’t about getting re-elected. This wasn’t about being popular. This was about making Texas a better place.” “His tenure as governor came during the stormy economic times of the early- to mid-1980s, which led Mark to do two things that are an everlasting credit to his rich legacy—he laid the groundwork for diversification of the Texas economy, and he made significant investments in improving education in our great state,” said former President George H. W. Bush. e For the latest LGBTQ news and current events in 2017, click on HoustonRainbowHerald.com. Johnny Trlica is the editor of the HoustonRainbowHerald.com, the Bayou City’s only daily LGBT internet newspaper. Contact him at jtrlica@houstonrainbowherald.com.
Montrose Star e | Wednesday August 9, 2017 | PAGE 7
Out at the Theatre
e By
Randall Jobe
.D. Players, in its new Jeannette and L.M. George Theater, located at 5420 Westheimer presents an innovative telling of Godspell, a musical based on the Gospel according to St. Matthew. With book by JohnMichael Tehelak and music and new lyrics by Stephen Schwartz, the play took the world by storm when it first appeared off Broadway in 1971. This recently updated version infused with modern references and dynamic arrangements is a masterful retelling of the original. Through August 20. Tickets: www. adplayers.org or 713-536-2721. ExxonMobil’s Summer Chills returns with Alfred Hitchcock’s comedy thriller, The 39 Steps. Packed with nonstop laughs and over 150 eccentric characters (played by four actors) the play is about a man with an ordinary life who meets a woman with a strong accent who says she’s a spy. Through August 20. Alley Theatre’s Hubbard Theatre. Tickets: www.alleytheatre.org or 713-220-5700. The Music Box Theatre opens Feeling Groovy: And the Groove Goes On, a new musical production. The talented cast includes Brad Scarborough. Rebeka Dahl, Cay Sullivan, Kristina Sullivan and
Photo courtesy Elizabeth Scott
A
Queensbury Theatre’s Me & Jezebel.
Luke Wrobel. A casual setting with beverages and snacks make this a perfect date night or for entertaining groups of friends. Fridays and Saturdays, 7:30 p.m. Reservations recommended. Tickets: www.themusicboxtheater. com or 713-522-7722. Queensbury Theatre presents the play, Me & Jezebel. On May 28, 1985, star-struck Elizabeth Fuller’s dream came true when legendary Bette Davis came to dinner at her dilapidated New England cottage. Four weeks after her arrival, Ms. Davis
is still there as the New York Hotel strike rages on. In one short month she conquers suburbia, takes over the Fullers’ home and changes their lives forever. Directed by Ron Jones and starring Houston icon Mary Hooper as Davis. Thursdays through Sundays, through August 27. Tickets: www. queensburytheatre.org or 713-467-4497. Stages Repertory Theatre presents the regional premiere of Woody Sez: The Life and Times of Woody Guthrie, directed by Nick Corley with musical direction by David M. Lutken. New York Times says it’s “a haunting and
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powerful show (that) transcends its homespun materials to become a work of art.” Includes hits including “This Land is Your Land”, “Bound for Glory” and “The Ballad of Tom Joad”. Ben Hope, star of Stages’ 2011 production of Hank Williams: Lost Highway returns as Guthrie. Through September 3. Performances Wednesdays through Sundays, including Saturday matinees. 3201 Allen Parkway. Tickets: www.stagestheatre.com or 713-527-0123. BSVA Compass Broadway at the Hobby Center presents Deborah Cox in The Bodyguard: The Musical. Based on the Oscar-nominated blockbuster film of the same name, The Bodyguard is the tale of former Secret Service agent turned bodyguard, Frank Turner, who is hired to protect superstar Rachel Marron from an unknown stalker. Each expects the other to be in charge; what they don’t expect is to fall in love. Said by Sunday Mirror to be “the hottest ticket in town,” the romantic thriller features a host of chart topping hits including “So Emotional”, “One Moment in the Time”, “Saving All My Love”, and the iconic “I Will Always Love You”. August 15 through 20. Hobby Center’s Sarofim Hall, 800 Bagby Street. Tickets: www.tickets. com or 713-315-2400. e
PAGE 8 | Montrose Star e | Wednesday August 9, 2017
What A World
People Will Talk:
The trans, tweets and twits edition e By
nanCy FoRd
“After consultation with my Generals and military experts, please be advised that the United States Government will not accept or allow Transgender individuals to serve in any capacity in the U.S. Military. Our military must be focused on decisive and overwhelming victory and cannot be burdened with the tremendous medical costs and disruption that transgender in the military would entail. Thank you. ” —U.S. President Donald J. Trump in a series of July 26 tweets. Via Twitter.com
“There are 15,000 patriotic transgender Americans in the U.S. military fighting for all of us. What happened to your promise to fight for them? ”
“If the Commander-in-Chief won’t take care of our veterans, our veterans will. I will do surgery for free on the number of people that I have already lined up for surgery. “@Caitlyn_Jenner wake up It’s obvious discrimination; I think sweetheart give Your wonderful “Every patriotic American who is any fifth-grader could see that. I president a call & discuss qualified to serve in our military think the cost of getting rid of very #noTransgender in military should be able to serve. Full stop. ” well specialized, trained military congrats on a great choice! ” service people is exponentially “I read the tweet while I was larger than just taking care of “Those 15,000 transgender at work and, you know, it was them.” troops who volunteered to serve devastating because I still have our country were minding their work to do and here I am reading own business, protecting our “This latest reversal of another basically what sounds like the freedoms, when they all got fired President of the United States— Obama administration policy by tweet. That’s like your wife continues to send the message who is the commander in chief, divorcing you by cookie bouquet.” he is the ultimate boss of the to trans Americans that our military—telling me and anybody lives, our safety and service are else that is transgender that we less valuable and unwanted “…[T]he cost of extending in this country, the country I gender transition-related health are fired…. In the initial moments love and hold so dear. Let’s all after the tweet, I saw myself care coverage to transgender forced into the state that I was in come together and send the troops would range from $2.4 before I started transitioning—a message to trans Americans that, million to $8.4 million…. [T]he despite what this president and military spends $84 million each state of depression, exhaustion administration proclaim, that and inability to enjoy things. ” year on medicines to combat trans lives, safety and service are erectile dysfunction—nearly half valuable, that they matter.” of the sum on Viagra.” —Trans media star and self-professed conservative, Caitlyn Jenner. Via Twitter.com
“I totally support the President in his decision. You know what—I don’t check on the price of Viagra. ”
—U.S. Energy Secretary, former Texas governor and Air Force veteran Rick Perry. Via TexasTribune.com.
—Former U.S. Vice President Joe Biden. Via Twitter.com
—Sandra Bernhard. Via Twitter.com
—Former Navy surgeon and Dr. Christine McGinn, who is transgender, to CNN’s Michael SAmerconish. Via CNN.com
—The Late Show with Stephen Colbert host, Stephen Colbert. Via WashingtonPost.com
—U.S. Army Capt. Jennifer Sims, after President Donald Trump tweeted that transgender troops were no longer welcome. Sims has been on hormone therapy by her military doctor since November 2016. If she interrupts the treatment, her body will revert to being male. Via AssociatedPress.com
—Trans actor Laverne Cox to CNN. Via CNN.com
—Texas Tribune reporter, Jim Malewitz. Via TexasTribune.com. +1 Google+ F Facebook.com & P Find us on P
“I don’t think we should be discriminating against anyone. Transgender people are people, and deserve the best we can do for them. I look forward to getting much more information and clarity from our military leaders about the policy the President tweeted.” —U.S. Senator Orrin Hatch (R-UT). Via Vox.com
“[There will be]…no modifications to the current policy until the President’s direction has been received by the Secretary of Defense and the Secretary has issued implementation guidelines. In the meantime, we will continue to treat all of our personnel with respect.” —U.S. Department of Defense Joint Chiefs of Staff chairman General Joseph Dunford, in a memo to the military. Via CNN.com
“This is out of control. Just when you think he couldn’t be more of an ignorant douchebag.” —Actor Zoe Kravitz. Via MarieClaire.com
Montrose Star e | Wednesday August 9, 2017 | PAGE 9
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Montrose Star e | Wednesday August 9, 2017 | PAGE 11
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PAGE 12 | Montrose Star e | Wednesday August 9, 2017
The Frivolist
6 Reasons
Why Gay People Are A Higher Form of Evolution e by
Mikey Rox
S
cience has yet to definitively declare a “gay gene” – probably because all those evil-gelicals would abort their gaybies left and right and all hell would break loose (hallelujah?) – but just because the argument for biological evidence that determines sexual orientation hasn’t been substantiated doesn’t mean it doesn’t exist. Barring the discovery of an actual genetic modification that predisposes people to being gay, studies have shown that homosexuality is a heritable trait. Nonetheless, the research as it stands now is still just a bunch of lab-coat mumbo jumbo caught up in a tornado of politics. Personally, I believe I’m a higher form of evolution. Not just me, though, but all gay people. I look at our community as a whole and, well, we do just about everything better than those who are not inherently equipped to think above the status quo. I’m not a kook, either. Rather, I’m skeptical of most oddball concepts – like psychics, paranormal activity, crop circles, and whoever convinced Bill Cosby it’s a good idea to launch a speaking tour about sexual assault. But I do earnestly believe that you and I are genetically superior to our heterosexual counterparts. Here’s why.
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I use humor as a defense mechanism. Many of us do. But that’s because we were forced to find the happiness in an otherwise depressing situation. We’re made fun of, taunted, bullied, and put down everywhere we go – even today. But it’s because of that that we’re able to evaluate and identify our self-worth when nobody else will, and the sense of humor that evolves from that oppression is what makes us likeable, self-aware beings who can and will read another to filth just for kicks.
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. We encourage, adapt to, and continue the pursuit of progression
Since the earliest recorded history – about 97th-century BCE when Mesolithic rock in Sicily is said to depict male homosexual intercourse – gays have infiltrated and influenced all aspects of life, from art to government. We’re drawn to positions of power because we affect change more swiftly and more democratically than those seeking to rule, often iron-fistedly, simply to make up for their lack of anatomical endowment (which isn’t just conjecture, by the way; a study by the Kinsey Institute reported that gay guys typically have bigger dicks than straight guys) and we don’t have to look any further than our own current administration to see this timehonored tradition in practice. It stands to reason then that we have less to prove than straight men seeking power, who much of the time want to stifle progression, while we advocate on behalf of forging ahead, quite happy with what’s been bestowed between our legs. In the meantime, we may have already answered the age-old question: Does size matter? All t he world’s conflicts started by cranky old straight men decidedly point to yes.
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. We have an “eye” for just about everything
You can’t teach imagination or creativity; you’re either born with it or you aren’t. Certainly there’s a case to be made for the cultivation of our own capacities – which requires encouragement from those who raise us during our most vital developmental stages – but once we’re in tune with our own intelligence, we’re unstoppable. We corner the market on creative expression, from home design and culinary arts to science and movie making, and our insight is unrivaled
. Bullying and oppression has informed our sense of humor and self-worth
because we won’t allow it to be muted, even when some around us demanded it growing up. The downside to this, of course, includes our rampant daddy issues (for some of us, least) – but let’s be honest, we make the most of that, too. Before I wrote this column, I asked my friends why they thought gay people were a higher form of evolution. Mostly because I needed validation that my own ego wasn’t out of control. It is, mind you – everybody who knows me will tell you that – but in this case, I at least have comrades on my side. My buddy Jason provided his thoughts on this particular matter – why we seem to get “it” and ourselves more than straight people understand themselves and their place in this world. “For thousands of years, we have been systematically oppressed and persecuted by every major religion and every government,” he said. “Attempts have been made to eradicate our kind for millennia, quite unsuccessfully. I believe we are feared most because we are, and always have been, the most powerful beings on this planet. We give you your culture, your beauty, your fashion, your art. We know no bounds, and exist in every corner of the earth, from your governments to your churches to your families, and all of your institutions. We cover every race, every gender and every class.” In laymen’s terms, we’re here and we’re queer – and we will inherit this earth.
. People are naturally drawn to us – for one reason or another
Straight women follow us around like tongues-out Frenchies, and straight men envy all the things we possess that they desperately want, like the devotion of those straight women. Whether they’ll admit it or not, heterosexuals envy us – and we should all sleep better accepting that as pseudo-scientific fact.
5
. We are emotionally more advanced because of circumstance
My beautiful lesbian friend Leslie laid this one out bare: “The strength one must possess to ‘come out’ as different from the norm is pretty much as powerful as one can be,” she said. “As humans we want to belong and be accepted by our tribe. It takes incredible strength and resilience to risk being literally abandoned by your tribe and surviving.
It defies evolution as we know it, thus making us a whole new breed of fucking fabulous.”
6
. We are, in fact, essential to humanity
Dr. James O’Keefe delivered a TED Talk at TEDxTallaght in Dublin last year, and he related a story that was covered by NewNowNext about how his own son came out 13 years ago. Initially, Dr. O’Keefe feared for his son’s safety and happiness, but then his own analytic abilities led him to surmise that his boy was going to be just fine – because gay people are goddamned remarkable. “Viewed in the light of evolution, homosexuality seems to be a real self-defeating non-productive strategy,” O’Keefe told the audience at his TED talk. “Gays have 80 percent fewer kids than heterosexuals. This is a trait that ought to go extinct in a few generations, yet down through recorded history in every culture and many animal species as well, homosexuality has been a small but distinct subgroup. If this were a genetic error, natural selection should have long ago culled this from the gene pool.” Dr. O’Keefe went on to discuss how everyone probably has gay genes in their DNA, but they only would have been activated as a means of survival, like stressful external circumstances while in the womb. You can watch his talk about how homos are motherfucking gods among men on YouTube; the talk is titled “Homosexuality: it’s about survival – not sex,” because that’s the truthiest truth there is. e
Mikey Rox is an award-winning journalist and LGBT lifestyle expert whose work has been published in more than 100 outlets across the world. He splits his time between homes in New York City and the Jersey Shore with his dog Jaxon. Connect with Mikey on Twitter @mikeyrox.
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Montrose Star e | Wednesday August 9, 2017 | PAGE 13
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PAGE 14 | Montrose Star e | Wednesday August 9, 2017
Rising Star
Leo Laredo
Meet ‘Glam Bear’ Leo Laredo e By
Randall Jobe
L
eo Laredo had quite a journey to his win of this year’s “Superstar” event; an annual vocal competition hosted by Pride Houston and this year held at Rich’s. He was placed third in the 2013 contest after taking a hiatus from singing after the death of his mother in 2012. But, because she had always encouraged him to “keep singing,” he challenged himself and was pleased by the great experience, the opportunity to choose new music to match selected themes and the thrill of being in the finale. He admits that in that initial attempt he was not in the best space and lacked confidence. What a difference a few years can make. Laredo says he moved past what he calls the “karaoke mentality” of wanting everyone to like you and into a place where he created his own brand and challenges, and willingly pushing himself more so than he had ever done before. He sang original music and brought in oboe and guitar as accompaniment. In one selection he even featured an aerialist. His efforts paid off and he was named Pride Superstar 2017. He immediately went to work on an idea he has to create a “multimedia cabaret experience” entitled Becoming Leo: Confessions of a Preacher’s Kid. He insists that he will it will be an honest portrayal of his true self, of “who I am.” Laredo loves makeup, fashion and is a self-professed “Glam Bear”. He has incorporated his love into a +1 Google+ Find us on P F Facebook.com & P
profession as a beauty consultant for Walgreen’s. The retail chain has recently changed its format in over a dozen Houston locations to “Beauty Evolution Walgreen’s” focusing on skin care and product knowledge. Laredo has great support from management and has implemented such things as Beauty Spa Day and complimentary samplings of high end products to convince customers that, as in most things, “you get what you pay for.” Laredo also loves drag and cites Alyssa Edwards and Alaska as favorites, along with locals Dina Jacobs, Violet S’Arbleau, Lana Blake and Houston icon, Kara Dion. He admits that the heels are too much, but he can work around that. In the 2017 Superstar competition, he sang Whitney Houston dressed in a gorgeous sparkling tulle gown, dress jacket and tie, and of course a “beat face.” With an openness that few people possess, Laredo says: “I am not the best looking person. I’m overweight and am losing my hair.” But, he insists, “I love makeup, eye shadow and a good lip, and when I feel beautiful, I know I am beautiful.” He is an example to anyone struggling with image issues that they are in power of their own lives. It is this confidence and a sense of self that make Leo Laredo a perfect choice as MONTROSE STAR ’s “Rising Star”. e
Montrose Star e | Wednesday August 9, 2017 | PAGE 15
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PAGE 16 | Montrose Star e | Wednesday August 9, 2017
What is TRUVADA for PrEP?
Who should not take TRUVADA for PrEP?
TRUVADA for PrEP (pre-exposure prophylaxis) is a prescription medicine that is used together with safer sex practices to help reduce the risk of getting HIV-1 through sex. This use is only for HIV-negative adults who are at high risk of getting HIV-1. To help determine your risk of getting HIV-1, talk openly with your healthcare provider about your sexual health.
Do not take TRUVADA for PrEP if you:
Ask your healthcare provider if you have questions about how to prevent getting HIV. Always practice safer sex and use condoms to lower the chance of sexual contact with body fluids. Never reuse or share needles or other items that have body fluids on them.
IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION What is the most important information I should know about TRUVADA for PrEP? Before taking TRUVADA for PrEP: ® You must be HIV-negative before you start taking TRUVADA for PrEP. You must get tested to make sure that you do not already have HIV-1. Do not take TRUVADA to reduce the risk of getting HIV-1 unless you are confirmed to be HIV-negative. ® Many HIV-1 tests can miss HIV-1 infection in a person who has recently become infected. If you have flu-like symptoms, you could have recently become infected with HIV-1. Tell your healthcare provider if you had a flu-like illness within the last month before starting or at any time while taking TRUVADA for PrEP. Symptoms of new HIV-1 infection include tiredness, fever, joint or muscle aches, headache, sore throat, vomiting, diarrhea, rash, night sweats, and/or enlarged lymph nodes in the neck or groin. While taking TRUVADA for PrEP: ® You must continue to use safer sex practices. Just taking TRUVADA for PrEP may not keep you from getting HIV-1. ® You must stay HIV-negative to keep taking TRUVADA for PrEP: ® Get tested for HIV-1 at least every 3 months. ® If you think you were exposed to HIV-1, tell your healthcare provider right away. ® To further help reduce your risk of getting HIV-1: ® Know your HIV status and the HIV status of your partners. ® Get tested for other sexually transmitted infections. Other infections make it easier for HIV to infect you. ® Get information and support to help reduce risky sexual behavior, such as having fewer sex partners. ® Do not miss any doses of TRUVADA. Missing doses may increase your risk of getting HIV-1 infection. ® If you do become HIV-1 positive, you need more medicine than TRUVADA alone to treat HIV-1. TRUVADA by itself is not a complete treatment for HIV-1. If you have HIV-1 and take only TRUVADA, your HIV-1 may become harder to treat over time. TRUVADA can cause serious side effects: ® Worsening of hepatitis B (HBV) infection. TRUVADA is not approved to treat HBV. If you have HBV and stop taking TRUVADA, your HBV may suddenly get worse. Do not stop taking TRUVADA without first talking to your healthcare provider, as they will need to monitor your health.
® Already have HIV-1 infection or if you do not know your HIV-1 status. If you are HIV-1 positive, you need to take other medicines with TRUVADA to treat HIV-1. TRUVADA by itself is not a complete treatment for HIV-1. If you have HIV-1 and take only TRUVADA, your HIV-1 may become harder to treat over time. ® Also take certain medicines to treat hepatitis B infection.
What are the other possible side effects of TRUVADA for PrEP? Serious side effects of TRUVADA may also include: ® Kidney problems, including kidney failure. Your healthcare provider may do blood tests to check your kidneys before and during treatment with TRUVADA. If you develop kidney problems, your healthcare provider may tell you to stop taking TRUVADA. ® 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. ® Bone problems, including bone pain, softening, or thinning, which may lead to fractures. Your healthcare provider may do tests to check your bones. Common side effects in people taking TRUVADA for PrEP are stomach-area (abdomen) pain, headache, and decreased weight. Tell your healthcare provider if you have any side effects that bother you or do not go away.
What should I tell my healthcare provider before taking TRUVADA for PrEP? ® All your health problems. Be sure to tell your healthcare provider if you have or have had any kidney, bone, or liver problems, including hepatitis. ® If you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. It is not known if TRUVADA can harm your unborn baby. If you become pregnant while taking TRUVADA for PrEP, talk to your healthcare provider to decide if you should keep taking TRUVADA. ® If you are breastfeeding (nursing) or plan to breastfeed. Do not breastfeed. If you become HIV-positive, HIV can be passed to the baby in breast milk. ® All the medicines you take, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements. TRUVADA may interact with other medicines. Keep a list of all your medicines and show it to your healthcare provider and pharmacist when you get a new medicine. ® If you take certain other medicines with TRUVADA, your healthcare provider may need to check you more often or change your dose. These medicines include certain medicines to treat hepatitis C (HCV) infection. You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit www.FDA.gov/medwatch, or call 1-800-FDA-1088.
Please see Important Facts about TRUVADA for PrEP including important warnings on the following page.
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Montrose Star e | Wednesday August 9, 2017 | PAGE 17
I’m passionate, not impulsive. I know who I am. And I make choices that fit my life. TRUVADA for PrEP™ is a once-daily prescription medicine that can help reduce the risk of getting HIV-1 when taken every day and used together with safer sex practices. ® TRUVADA for PrEP is only for adults who are at high risk of getting HIV through sex. ® You must be HIV-negative before you start taking TRUVADA for PrEP.
Ask your doctor about your risk of getting HIV-1 infection and if TRUVADA for PrEP may be right for you.
Learn more at truvada.com
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7/26/17 10:28 AM
PAGE 18 | Montrose Star e | Wednesday August 9, 2017
IMPORTANT FACTS
This is only a brief summary of important information about taking TRUVADA for PrEPTM (pre-exposure prophylaxis) to help reduce the risk of getting HIV-1 infection. This does not replace talking to your healthcare provider about your medicine.
(tru-VAH-dah) MOST IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT TRUVADA FOR PrEP
POSSIBLE SIDE EFFECTS OF TRUVADA FOR PrEP
Before starting TRUVADA for PrEP:
• Those in the “Most Important Information About TRUVADA for PrEP” section. • New or worse kidney problems, including kidney failure. • 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. • Bone problems.
• You must be HIV-1 negative. You must get tested to make sure that you do not already have HIV-1. Do not take TRUVADA for PrEP to reduce the risk of getting HIV-1 unless you are confirmed to be HIV-1 negative. • Many HIV-1 tests can miss HIV-1 infection in a person who has recently become infected. Symptoms of new HIV-1 infection include flu-like symptoms, tiredness, fever, joint or muscle aches, headache, sore throat, vomiting, diarrhea, rash, night sweats, and/or enlarged lymph nodes in the neck or groin. Tell your healthcare provider if you have had a flu-like illness within the last month before starting TRUVADA for PrEP. While taking TRUVADA for PrEP: • You must continue to use safer sex practices. Just taking TRUVADA for PrEP may not keep you from getting HIV-1. • You must stay HIV-negative to keep taking TRUVADA for PrEP. Get tested for HIV-1 at least every 3 months while taking TRUVADA for PrEP. Tell your healthcare provider right away if you think you were exposed to HIV-1 or have a flu-like illness while taking TRUVADA for PrEP. • If you do become HIV-1 positive, you need more medicine than TRUVADA alone to treat HIV-1. If you have HIV-1 and take only TRUVADA, your HIV-1 may become harder to treat over time. • See the “How To Further Reduce Your Risk” section for more information. TRUVADA may cause serious side effects, including: • Worsening of hepatitis B (HBV) infection. TRUVADA is not approved to treat HBV. If you have HBV, your HBV may suddenly get worse if you stop taking TRUVADA. Do not stop taking TRUVADA without first talking to your healthcare provider, as they will need to check your health regularly for several months.
TRUVADA can cause serious side effects, including:
Common side effects in people taking TRUVADA for PrEP include stomach-area (abdomen) pain, headache, and decreased weight. These are not all the possible side effects of TRUVADA. Tell your healthcare provider right away if you have any new symptoms while taking TRUVADA for PrEP. Your healthcare provider will need to do tests to monitor your health before and during treatment with TRUVADA for PrEP.
BEFORE TAKING TRUVADA FOR PrEP Tell your healthcare provider if you: • Have or have had any kidney, bone, or liver problems, including hepatitis. • Have any other medical conditions. • Are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. • Are breastfeeding (nursing) or plan to breastfeed. Do not breastfeed. If you become HIV-positive, HIV can pass to the baby in breast milk. Tell your healthcare provider about all the medicines you take:
ABOUT TRUVADA FOR PrEP TRUVADA for PrEP is a prescription medicine used together with safer sex practices to help reduce the risk of getting HIV-1 through sex. This use is only for HIV-negative adults who are at high risk of getting HIV-1. • To help determine your risk of getting HIV-1, talk openly with your healthcare provider about your sexual health. Do NOT take TRUVADA for PrEP if you: • Already have HIV-1 infection or if you do not know your HIV-1 status. • Take certain medicines to treat hepatitis B infection.
HOW TO TAKE TRUVADA FOR PrEP • Take 1 tablet once a day, every day, not just when you think you have been exposed to HIV-1. • Do not miss any doses. Missing doses may increase your risk of getting HIV-1 infection. • Use TRUVADA for PrEP together with condoms and safer sex practices. • Get tested for HIV-1 at least every 3 months. You must stay HIV-negative to keep taking TRUVADA for PrEP.
• Keep a list that includes all prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements, and show it to your healthcare provider and pharmacist. • Ask your healthcare provider or pharmacist about medicines that should not be taken with TRUVADA for PrEP.
HOW TO FURTHER REDUCE YOUR RISK • Know your HIV status and the HIV status of your partners. • Get tested for other sexually transmitted infections. Other infections make it easier for HIV to infect you. • Get information and support to help reduce risky sexual behavior, such as having fewer sex partners. • Do not share needles or personal items that can have blood or body fluids on them.
GET MORE INFORMATION • This is only a brief summary of important information about TRUVADA for PrEP. Talk to your healthcare provider or pharmacist to learn more, including how to prevent HIV infection. • Go to start.truvada.com or call 1-800-GILEAD-5 • If you need help paying for your medicine, visit start.truvada.com for program information.
TRUVADA FOR PREP, the TRUVADA FOR PREP Logo, the TRUVADA Blue Pill Design, TRUVADA, GILEAD, and the GILEAD Logo are trademarks of Gilead Sciences, Inc., or its related companies. All other marks referenced herein are the property of their respective owners. Version date: April 2017 © 2017 Gilead Sciences, Inc. All rights reserved. TVDC0140 07/17
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Montrose Star e | Wednesday August 9, 2017 | PAGE 19
How Todrick Hall Found His Yellow Brick Road Photos : AwesomenessTV.
Kinky Boots star and doc subject on finding his courage,
shero emulation and inspiring ‘little Todricks’
e By
T
CHRiS aZZoPaRdi
odrick Hall grew up in Plainview, Texas, with a dream to be “one of these black women who could sing all these crazy notes.” It is, after all, in his blood – his cousin is none other than Dreamgirls song slayer Jennifer Holliday. But first, as a child, the aspiring soul singer found life in The Little Mermaid, replicating Ariel’s crimson hair with a red towel on his head and gadgets and gizmos a-plenty. Clasping a fork, he created a makeshift fishtail by binding his feet together with a water hose. Meanwhile, to channel another shero of his, Catwoman, he got his hands on some blue tape, nails and a jump rope, which doubled as his whip and tail. “My backyard was my playground,” the 32-year-old singer says of his childhood, when he discovered another one of his female role models: Mariah Carey. His adoration for the biracial diva ran deep. “I think I just was more inspired to be like Mariah Carey,” he says. In 1993, he made a revelation after seeing the “Dreamlover” music video: “I was like, ‘Oh my god.’ I had never seen anyone who appeared to be Caucasian sound like that. I was just fascinated.” His propensity for female vocalists extended to Lauryn Hill’s singing in Sister Act 2 and Brandy in the Whitney Houston-as-the-fairy-godmother version of Cinderella, along with ’90s R&B girlgroup sensation SWV. And, because he felt destined to become all these ladies, “I would practice day in and day out.” That practice led Hall beyond his own backyard, from ballet at age 9 to The Color Purple with American Idol alum Fantasia Barrino. Then, in 2009, he impressed the American Idol judges himself, nabbing a spot in the semifinals. With vocal tributes to artists such as Rihanna, Taylor Swift and Beyoncé, his “4” series on YouTube gave his career a nice boost. (Soon, he says he’ll be honoring his childhood idol with a webisode dedicated to Mariah Carey: “I just have to be on vocal rest for, like, three weeks; her music is so hard!”) After releasing an ambitious, 57-minute conceptual album in 2016 and replacing Billy Porter in Kinky Boots on Broadway that same year, Hall says, “I think my younger self would be really shocked (about my career now) because I didn’t have very high expectations for my life, and I’ve just gotten to do some really, really cool things I never thought I’d get to do.” The album, called Straight Outta Oz, reflects thoughtfully and powerfully on Hall’s coming-of-age as a gay black kid in Plainview, through his rise to fame while struggling to adjust to a new life in Los Angeles. “Color” ruminates on his first boyfriend, a handsome Londoner named Garrett, “the first to really know me.” Visually, it replicates
Dorothy’s own life in a new world, as yellows, blues and greens pop into the video’s stark, black-and-white frame. Guest stars include RuPaul’s Drag Race vets Kim Chi, Bob the Drag Queen and Willam Belli, as well as Joseph Gordon-Levitt, Nicole Scherzinger and, as Hall’s mother, Amber Riley, who contributes the moving tearjerker “See Your Face,” about a woman yearning for her distant son. “Got a picture framed of you on stage at your very first ballet, and I know that you won’t answer,” she wrenchingly sings, “but I’ll call you twice a day, just in case today might be the day I get to see your face.” For Hall, “I think I was honestly very naive growing up and thought I was a Disney princess my whole life,” he says, laughing. “I still kind of think I do feel that way! So, I didn’t feel super different as a child, minus the moments where my dad made me feel really weird. My mom always applauded me for wanting to do ballet. But I didn’t attach a sexual orientation to my life until much later.”
Todrick Hall and his mother Amber Riley
openly gay black man and so proud that me using my voice to tell my story can help people.” His journey through self-discovery and into empowerment is mirrored in his work, where being himself has been his greatest asset. He says he was offered the role of Lola, the lead in Kinky Boots, “without even auditioning, because they felt my story was so similar to that of Lola’s.” “It’s opened up so many doors,” he blithely adds. Hall’s galvanizing story is the kind that makes for movie magic, which is what filmmaker Katherine Fairfax Wright set out to create with the new documentary Behind the Curtain: Todrick Hall, currently making its film Though he grew up feeling fearless, when he moved to L.A. to pursue showbiz, “I learned how to be insecure and I learned how to doubt myself.” Ashamed of his race and sexuality, he admits, “I didn’t really believe in myself.” “I wished I could change so I could be more successful commercially,” he recalls. “I remember being on American Idol and I couldn’t be myself. I had to talk a certain way to (host) Ryan Seacrest. I was just so nervous that people would figure out my secret.” Even if “this is gonna sound really crazy,” during a rough patch with his mom caused by his relationship with Garrett (they’ve since reconciled), he found comfort in Nicole Richie. He says the star and her reality show, The Simple Life, were his pick-me-ups. “I just think she’s so funny and so whippety,” he says. “I literally had dreams about being friends with her. So, when I meet her one day, I’m gonna lose my mind.” Now, “not only am I not ashamed,” he asserts, “I’m so proud to be an
fest rounds. The documentary goes deep into the entertainer’s struggles to find his place in Hollywood as a gay black man. “There’s not a lot of roles for gay African-American men,” he says during the film. “I was like, ‘I’m gonna create my own opportunities because they don’t exist if I don’t.’” His moxie and unflappable ambition
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resulted in 16 videos – miraculously, all shot in two weeks – for Straight Outta Oz, its creation covered in depth during Wright’s Behind the Curtain. Post Straight Outta Oz, he began receiving calls from Broadway producers. Publishers offered him book deals. Even Taylor Swift, who came to see him in Kinky Boots, is a fan – and friend – now. During Thanksgiving last year, Hall celebrated with Swift and her crew, and – like a full-circle dream come true – the two even sat down at a piano to sing “Part of Your World” from The Little Mermaid. “It was such an epic moment,” he recalls, gushing about how she’s the “ultimate great best friend.” “She gives me the best advice,” he continues, “and when I watch her, it’s much like watching RuPaul – RuPaul is not only where he is because he’s a legend in his own right, he treats every single person who he works for and works with so well and that’s why he has people who’ve been around him for years.” After guest-judging RuPaul’s Drag Race,” Hall’s relationship with the drag and cultural icon has given him new aspirations: He, like RuPaul, hopes to empower people who once felt as discouraged and hopeless as him. “Every time I sit next to RuPaul on our panel, I’m like, ‘I want to be this one day.’ When you walk into a room and people say, ‘Thank you for doing what you have done.’” “I wanna be somebody who’s a trailblazer for our community – so a little Todrick in Texas right now can look up to me and say, ‘You know what? I can do it because Todrick did it.’” e As editor of Q Syndicate, the international LGBT wire service, Chris Azzopardi has interviewed a multitude of superstars, including Meryl Streep, Mariah Carey and Beyoncé. Reach him via his website at www.chris-azzopardi.com and on Twitter (@chrisazzopardi).
PAGE 20 | Montrose Star e | Wednesday August 9, 2017
Cooking With Paula Dream
For summer
Light and easy eats e by
paula dream (aka kale haygood)
W
hew! What a week! Like I told you in montrose star’s last issue Paula was on her way to West Hollywood. It took just under 24 hours to get to my hotel on Santa Monica Boulevard. First, a flight scheduled to leave Houston at 7 a.m. was delayed then totally cancelled at noon. So there were 200 people stranded at the mercy of the airline’s customer service desk with only two people working the desk. Finally it was my turn to see what they could do for me. My first option was to fly to Denver for an eight-hour layover to Los Angeles. What the f*@#? Then, finally, one seat left for San Francisco with a two-hour layover to L.A. was leaving in 10 minutes at a gate completely at the other end of the terminal. So I kicked off my orthopedic shoes and ran to the gate in my support hose to make the connection. Whew! I just made it in time only to find that flight was delayed, then delayed, and then delayed again. Finally, I boarded the plane. Finally, I’m in San Francisco, sitting in a bar for three hours. Finally, on my way to L.A. Finally, on the shuttle to my rent car. The line to get cars was long with only two people working the desk with the speed of a postal worker. Finally, I’m in my car and tired and hoping I don’t get lost in the dark.
All of of a sudden (you guessed it) I see red lights flashing in my rear view mirror. Here I am, driving a rented car with Nevada plates and a Texas driver license. The cop came to my window and said, “I stopped you for speeding. I was sitting there waiting on you.” I replied, “I got here as soon as I could,” like the smart ass that I am, thinking I’m going to the pokey now. The cop died laughing, then said, “Slow it down and be safe.” Go figure! Finally, on to cooking. This issue brings you great dip for entertaining or to take to a party, a healthy salad that has a great presentation, and a fantastic chicken dinner that goes with any side. As always, thanks for all your comments and for supporting our advertisers who helped pay for my trip. ARTICHOKE-GREEN CHILE DIP.
2 cups Parmesan cheese, grated 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded 1 can whole artichoke hearts (rinsed, patted dry and chopped) 1 cup mayonnaise 1/4 cup canned green chilies (chopped and drained) 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
Adjust your oven rack to a middle position and heat oven to 350 degrees. Combine all ingredients in a bowl, then transfer to a nine-inch pie plate. S 27
2 7 10 Montrose Blvd. Houston, T X 7 7 006
713.526.0202 Order Online www.pepperonis.net
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Artichoke-green chile dip
Foodie Diaries
Texas Beef Burger at Presidio
Presidio:
Bringing the Valley to the Heights?
e By
JiM ayReS
W
ell, maybe. Could be. If they say so. OK, I’ll bite. And boy, did I bite! Kidding aside, Presidio is one of the newest hot spots in the Heights. Whether they really intend to conjure a Rio Grande atmosphere, I don’t know. But the name’s fine because a restaurant that spotlights Texas food this well deserves an equally Texan identity. Inside, the walls are decoupaged with old Texas maps and older recipe cards from the kitchens of beloved abuelitas. Stained concrete floors are suitably rustic, but the comfortable, homey dining chairs are unexpected. The arts and crafts-inspired windows offer a glimpse of life on busy 11th Street. Two large patios bookend the former and fondly remembered Java Java, but on a hot afternoon, indoors is the place to be. I was immediately greeted with a very tall bottle of ice-cold water, but I knew a cocktail would refresh me even more. (Costco on Saturday will zap you!) I found it strange that I’d never ordered a Paloma before, so the jalapeno-tinged Paloma Picante called my name. Where had this classic tequila and grapefruit combination been all my life? Bright, fresh and delicious—I had two! If you’re looking for appetizers, Presidio has a long, creative list. I settled on two, the Fried Pickled Okra and the Sweet Potato Beignets. The okra, fresh from Presidio’s on-site garden, is pickled in-house and coated in a cornmeal batter. Once fried and served hot, the vegetable takes a new direction. Usually squishy, this okra was firm and crunchable.
I also loved the Sweet Potato Beignets. These aren’t the lighter-thanair beignets from Café Du Monde. Nor are they sweet. They’re more like soft, soggy hushpuppies, but please don’t let that deter you. Dusted with smoked paprika and accented with fennel, they’ll remind you of the orange dunes of Namib, but they’ll be much better tasting, I assure you! If the okra lacked ooze, it came bursting forth from the simply named Texas Beef Burger. All the great burger elements are there, including fresh salad fixings, cheddar, and whole grain mustard. The patty has a distinct backyard smokiness that doesn’t overpower, but what really sets it off is a liberal spreading of onion bacon jam. I never knew how much depth a sweet element could bring to a burger. This whole visit was quite the education for me, wasn’t it? I didn’t have room for any more food that day, but I’ll return to Presidio soon for Granny Rose’s Tacos (with black olives and Pepper Jack…oh yeah!) and if I’m in a group, a Whole Grilled Rainbow Trout (my favorite fish). And a Paloma Picante at Presidio special word for Presidio’s warm and welcoming staff: Everyone made sure everybody had a wonderful time. Chef Adam Dorris, formerly of Pax Americana, has done an amazing job bringing that sensibility to Presidio’s more casual vibe and price point. The biggest bonus of all? Ample parking for all! Presidio just gets everything right. e .
911 W. 11th Street Houston, Texas 77008 | 832-740-4574 W W W. P R E S I D I O H T X . C O M +1 Google+ Find us on P F Facebook.com & P
Montrose Star e | Wednesday August 9, 2017 | PAGE 21
e | Montrose | Wednesday e | | Montrose August 9, 2017 PAGE1 22 Star Wednesday June 14, 2017 PAGE Star
PLEASE NOTE EVENT TIMES AND DATES SUBJETC TO CHANGE WITHOUT NOTICE.
Ġ Wed › August 9 Q 23rd Street Station – Galveston: Destiny Lee Jacobs
Ġ Sun › August 13 Q 23rd Street Station – Galveston: Dixie Monroe hosts
hosts Karaoke, 9:30pm | Visit FB/23rdStreetStation Q Alley Theatre presents ExxonMobil’s Summer Chills thriller, Alfred Hitchcock’s The 39 Steps, 8pm (Thru 8/20) Visit alleytheatre.org Q Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion presents Straight No Chaser & Scott Bradlee’s Postmodern Jukebox with Jon McLaughlin, 7:30pm | Visit woodlandscenter.org Q Houston Museum of Natural Science: Mapping Texas: From Frontier to the Lone Star State, Daily 9am - 5pm (Thru 10/8) Q Matchbox 2: ReFine Arts Productions presents Reconstructing Alice, 7:00pm (Thru 8/13) | Visit matchouston.org Q Miller Outdoor Theatre presents Dancing to Hispanic Rhythms, featuring lively dances from Mexico and Spain, and other Latin countries, 11am | Visit milleroutdoortheatre.com Q Moody Gardens–Galveston presents Da Vinci: The Exhibition (Thru 1/8) Visit moodygardens.com Q Museum of Fine Arts presents Paint the Revolution: Mexican Modernism, 1910-1950 (Thru 10/1) Visit mfah.org Q Music Box Theatre presents Feeling Groovy 3, 7:30pm (Thru 8/26) Visit themusicboxtheater.com Q The Ripcord hosts Geeks Who Drink (the leader in the Pub Trivia Nerd Pack), 8:30pm Q Rumors Beach Bar - Galveston hosts Winesday Wednesdaya wine tasting and hors d’ouvres, 6pm | Visit rumorsbeachbar.com Q Stages Repertory Theatre presents Always…Patsy Cline (Thru 8/20) | Visit stagestheatre.com Q Stages Repertory Theatre presents Woody Sez, The Life and Music of Woody Guthrie, (Thru 9/3) | Visit stagestheatre.com
Trailer Trash BINGO, 7pm – PLUS – Hospitality LATE Nite specials, 11pm Q Rich’s Houston presents Fan-Tastic Sundays feat. DJ Joe Ross & DJ Melle, Doors at 5pm - No Cover! | Visit richsnightclub.com Q The Ripcord hosts Satisfaction Sunday with DJ Cori, 9pm | Visit FB/ripcordhouston Q Rumors Beach Bar - Galveston celebrates Sunday Funday all day; Drag Bingo, 4pm + Karaoke & Lip Sync Battles, 8pm | Visit rumorsbeachbar.com Q Tony’s Corner Pocket features the Hottest Male Dancers Revue, 10pm
Ġ Thu › August 10 Q Miller Outdoor Theatre presents Los Chicos del 512, A Tribute to Selena, 8:30pm | Visit milleroutdoortheatre.com Q Rich’s Houston hosts Dessie’s Drag Race, All-Stars 2 | Visit richsnightclub.com Q Rumors Beach Bar - Galveston hosts Thirsty Thursdayall-day drink specials + Karaoke and Trivia, 8pm | Visit rumorsbeachbar.com Q Tony’s Corner Pocket features the Hot Male Dancers Revue, 10pm Ġ Fri › August 11
Q 23rd Street Station – Galveston: Tonya Nixx hosts Friday Fantasy Male Dancer Contest, 9pm (every 2nd & 4th Friday) | Visit FB/23rdStreetStation Q Miller Outdoor Theatre presents Ozomatli, the Los Angeles based musical group, 8:30pm | Visit milleroutdoortheatre.com Q Rich’s Houston presents Stripper Electric Circus with special guest, 10pm | Visit richsnightclub.com Q Rumors Beach Bar - Galveston hosts “Rumor Report” Friday with DJ Joe Rios+Dancing; Drag Shows at 11pm & 12:30am | Visit rumorsbeachbar.com Q Tony’s Corner Pocket features the Hottest Male Dancers Revue, 10pm
Journey Through China VII
Ġ Mon › August 14
Q Miller Outdoor Theatre presents Journey Through China VII, 11am | Visit milleroutdoortheatre.com Q The Ripcord hosts Mondays Are Underwear Night, feat. free pool | Visit FB/ripcordhouston Q Rumors Beach Bar - Galveston hosts Martini Monday + Karaoke & Trivia, 8pm | Visit rumorsbeachbar.com Ġ Tue › August 15
Q Miller Outdoor Theatre presents Journey Through China VII, 11am | Visit milleroutdoortheatre.com Q Miller Outdoor Theatre presents Movies at Miller – Singing in the Rain, 8:30pm | Visit milleroutdoortheatre.com Q Rumors Beach Bar - Galveston hosts Tequila Tuesday with drink specials + Karaoke and Lip Sync Battles, 8pm | Visit rumorsbeachbar.com Q Tony’s Corner Pocket presents Tony’s Tuesday Closet Cases, A Lip-Sync Battle & Talent Showcase, co-hosted by Amanda RyderSwallow & Ashlee Houston, 8:30pm Ġ Wed › August 16
Q 23rd Street Station – Galveston: Destiny Lee Jacobs hosts Karaoke, 9:30pm | Visit FB/23rdStreetStation Q Miller Outdoor Theatre presents Movies at Miller – La La Land, 8:30pm | Visit milleroutdoortheatre.com Q The Ripcord hosts Geeks Who Drink (the leader in the Pub Trivia Nerd Pack), 8:30pm Q Rumors Beach Bar - Galveston hosts Winesday Wednesdaya wine tasting and hors d’ouvres, 6pm | Visit rumorsbeachbar.com
Ġ Sat › August 12
Q 23rd Street Station – Galveston host a birthday bash for Todd Farrish, 9pm - PLUS - Kiki Dion Van Wales hosts an all-new special show, 10:30pm | Visit FB/23rdStreetStation Q Aurora Picture Show: Q Fest presents Shorts Program: Come As You Are, 3:30pm | Visit q-fest.com Q Ballroom at Bayou Place: Melrose Creative Suite presents The Rising Roses, featuring Morena Roas for a night to support United Against Human Trafficking, 4-8pm Q Miller Outdoor Theatre presents The Fab 5 and Texas Medical Center Orchestra: 50th Anniversary Tribute to The Beatles, 8:30pm | Visit milleroutdoortheatre.com Q Rich’s Houston hosts Resurrection Saturdays featuring DJ Joe Ross, DJ Melle Mel and DJ Johnny Vibe, 10pm | Visit richsnightclub.com Q Rumors Beach Bar - Galveston hosts “Gossip Girls” Saturday with DJ Joe Rios+Dancing; Drag Shows at 11pm & 12:30am | Visit rumorsbeachbar.com Q Tony’s Corner Pocket features the Hottest Male Dancers Revue, 10pm Photos Courtesy
RECURRING EVENT S SUNDAYS: Q 23rd Street Station – Galveston: Hospitality LATE Nite specials, 11pm-2as Q Club Houston Sunday Buffet, 1pm Q Ripcord’s Sunday Funday ‘Church’ with DJ Cory, 7pm Q Tony’s Corner Pocket features a Sexy Sunday Show with host Regina Dane MONDAYS: Q 23rd Street Station – Galveston: Texas Hold-em Night Q KPFT 90.1FM: Queer Voices Radio Show
Q The Ripcord hosts Underwear Night, feat. Free Pool
TUESDAYS: Q 23rd Street Station – Galveston: Hospitality LATE Nite specials, 11pm-2am Q Guava Lamp: Lady Shamu hosts Bingo & Steak Night, 6pm Q KPFT 90.1 FM: Legacy Community Health’s drive-time radio show every Ġ Tue › 4:30-5pm Q Pearl Bar: Nina Lombardo hosts Lez-BINGO, 8pm + Steak Night, 6:30pm Q Ripcord’s Sync Battle with DJ Cori, 10pm sign-up, contest at 11pm Q Tony’s Corner Pocket presents Tony’s Tuesday Closet Cases, A Lip-Sync Battle & Talent Showcase, 8:30pm WEDNESDAYS:
Q 23rd Street Station – Galveston: Karaoke Night with Carly! 9pm Q The Ripcord hosts Geeks Who Drink, 8:30pm Q The Ripcord: DJ Cory hosts Game Night – Plus – Geeks Who Drink, 8:30pm
Q Tony’s Corner Pocket presents What the Duck? Variety show hosted by Duckie DuJour, 8:30pm Ġ Thu › August 17
Q Rich’s Houston hosts Dessie’s Drag Race, All-Stars 2 | Visit richsnightclub.com Q Rumors Beach Bar - Galveston hosts Thirsty Thursdayall-day drink specials + Karaoke and Trivia, 8pm | Visit rumorsbeachbar.com Ġ Fri › August 18 Q 23rd Street Station – Galveston hosts an 80’s Prom Night | Visit FB/23rdStreetStation Q Matchbox 1: Operativo presents L’Italiana in Algeri, 7:30pm | Visit matchouston.org Q Miller Outdoor Theatre: Classic Albums Live presents Creedence Clearwater Revival’s Chronicles, 8:30pm | Visit milleroutdoortheatre.com Q Rich’s Houston presents Stripper Electric Circus, 10pm | Visit richsnightclub.com Q Rumors Beach Bar - Galveston hosts Rumor Report Friday with DJ Joe Rios+Dancing; Drag Shows at 11pm & 12:30am | Visit rumorsbeachbar.com Ġ Sat › August 19
Q 23rd Street Station – Galveston: Kiki Dion Van Wales hosts an all-new special show with special guest Tara Dion, 10:30pm | Visit FB/23rdStreetStation Q Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion presents Foreigner with Cheap Trick & Jason Bonham’s Led Zeppelin Experience, 7pm | Visit woodlandscenter.org Q Matchbox 1: Operativo presents L’Italiana in Algeri, 7:30pm | Visit matchouston.org Q Matchbox 4: Green Eyed Theater presents Blink, Encore Screening, 6pm | Visit matchouston.org Q Miller Outdoor Theatre presents Incredible India: Unity in Diversity, 8:15pm | Visit milleroutdoortheatre.com Q Rich’s Houston hosts Resurrection Saturdays featuring DJ Joe Ross, DJ Melle Mel and DJ Johnny Vibe, 10pm | Visit richsnightclub.com Q Rumors Beach Bar - Galveston hosts “Gossip Girls” Saturday with DJ Joe Rios+Dancing; Drag Shows at 11pm & 12:30am | Visit rumorsbeachbar.com
Q Tony’s Corner Pocket features Hot Male Dancers with host An’Marie THURSDAYS; Q 23rd Street Station – Galveston: Beer Pong Night Q The Ripcord hosts Exodus, ‘Where the fun starts’ FRIDAYS: Q Classic Numbers every Friday at Numbers Nightclub Q The Ripcord’s Diversion with DJ Cori, a night of 80s, 90s and today’s hits Q Tony’s Corner Pocket features Hot Male Dancers with host An’Marie Gill SATURDAYS: Q 23rd Street Station – Galveston: Power Hour specials 9pm-1am Q The Ripcord hosts PRIME with DJ Groove Brothers, 8pm Q Tony’s Corner Pocket features Hot Male Dancers | with host An’Marie FIRST WEDNESDAY: Q Houston Political Caucus at Montrose Center FIRST FRIDAY: Q Front Runners Monthly Mixer Q SPRY Game Day SECOND THURSDAY: Q SPRY Potluck at the Montrose Counseling Center SECOND SATURDAY: Q LOAF’s monthly Womyn on the Move dance at Neon Boots SECOND SUNDAY: Q PFLAG meets at St. Paul’s Methodist Church THIRD THURSDAY: Q SPRY Movie Afternoon THIRD FRIDAY: Q SPRY Movie Day at Montrose Center FIRST & THIRD THURSDAY: Q LGBT Entrepreneurs and Business Professionals MeetUp at Midtown Bar & Grill Ġ Sat › August 19
Q Tony’s Corner Pocket features the Hottest Male Dancers Revue, 10pm Ġ Sun › August 20
Q Rich’s Houston presents Fan-Tastic Sundays feat. DJ Joe Ross & DJ Melle, Doors at 5pm - No Cover! | Visit richsnightclub.com Q Rumors Beach Bar - Galveston celebrates Sunday Funday all day; Drag Bingo, 4pm + Karaoke & Lip Sync Battles, 8pm | Visit rumorsbeachbar.com Q Tony’s Corner Pocket features the Hot Male Dancers Revue, 10pm Ġ Mon › August 21
Q Rumors Beach Bar - Galveston hosts Martini Monday + Karaoke & Trivia, 8pm | Visit rumorsbeachbar.com Ġ Tue › August 22 Q Rumors Beach Bar - Galveston hosts Tequila Tuesday with drink specials + Karaoke and Lip Sync Battles, 8pm | Visit rumorsbeachbar.com Q Tony’s Corner Pocket presents Tony’s Tuesday Closet Cases, A Lip-Sync Battle & Talent Showcase, co-hosted by Amanda RyderSwallow & Ashlee Houston, 8:30pm Ġ Wed › August 23
Q The Ripcord hosts Geeks Who Drink (the leader in the Pub Trivia Nerd Pack), 8:30pm Q Rumors Beach Bar - Galveston hosts Winesday Wednsday wine tasting and hors d’ouvres, 6pm | Visit rumorsbeachbar.com
Jason Bonham’s Led Zeppelin
Please note: Events, dates and times subject to change without notice. + P Facebook.com & P Google+ Findus uson on + 1 1 Google+ Find P FF Facebook.com & P
» CROSSWORD QUEERIES . . . . . . . . . . . 26
» A COUPLE OF GUYS
A-MAIZE-ING MARLON P F FACEBOOK.COM/MONTROSESTAR
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28
» GUIDE TO THE CLUBS
A Couple of Guys THE PARTY STARTS HERE!
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30
SERVING HOUSTON, THE BAY AREA & GALVESTON
Section
B
WEDNESDAY AUGUST 9, 2017 e VOL. VIII, 10
GALVESTON: AN ISLAND IN HEAT
Across the Causeway
e By
T
FoReST RiGGS
he end of summer and the high temperatures of August are truly upon us. Can it get any hotter? Will it get any hotter? The intense heat combined with high humidity levels has made island life pretty miserable over the past few weeks. Most folks stay inside, under an AC, and enjoy cool beverages. Things do cool down a bit at night and there is an occasional breeze, but for the most part August brings great heat and a huge wish for fall and cooler weather to get here. Recently I consulted the “oracle of weather,” my good friend, fellow Aggie and meteorologist Bob Rose in Austin. I have known Bob for over 30 years and many folks may recall his days on Channel 3 in Bryan-College Station, as well as his long presence in the Austin community. I asked Bob about August and what we can expect. Bob’s response was short and very “on air sounding.” “We shouldn’t see too many additional 100s in August. We appear to be moving into a wetter
and less hot pattern for most of August. Fall is shaping up to be wetter than normal with warm but not excessively hot temperatures. I can’t wait for the rain to return,” he forecasted. It’s always great to hear from Bob and get his scoop on the weather. At Texas A&M, I would refer to him as “Weatherina” and although I don’t think he liked the moniker, he took it in stride. Over the years, I have known several meteorologists and a large number of them are gay. I wonder what that is all about; must be something in the air! Despite the heat, Galveston’s LGBTQ community remains active and a large presence on the island. The three “watering holes” continue to provide respite from the heat, complete with libations, drag shows, bingo, karaoke, fund-raisers, food and good times. Sweet Misty Valdez, after being a little under the weather, is back on the fund-raising circuit and keeping the donations for ACCT pouring in. Meanwhile, S 24
PAGE 24 | Montrose Star e | Wednesday August 9, 2017
S 23 island sweetheart Christin Roe and hot husband Danny have been busy raising money for the Trans Assistance Project, a very worthy cause that offers assistance to our brothers and sisters in the trans community. Jesse Garza has been active on Facebook with a “pledge your birthday” fundraiser for ACCT and has been quite successful. There is a strong spirit of giving and support in the Galveston LGBTQ community and monies raised demonstrate a deep commitment to taking care of each other and making life better for those in need. Speaking of taking care, island favorite bartender and songster, Larry King, reports he is doing well and on the road to a great recovery. Larry is living with his twin brother and sisterin-law in Fort Worth and makes weekly trips to his hometown of Graham. It has been a long and and bumpy road for Pickles, as he is also known, since the auto accident in January of 2016 that nearly claimed his life. These days he is busy trying to find a position in a local theatre or music group that will enable him to use his two degrees and theatrical background. Pickles is happy to report that he has been on the “straight and narrow” since the accident and is enjoying his new life and family support. Brain injuries, depending on the severity, can be quite life changing. Fortunately, Larry is adjusting well to his new life and remains active and fills his days and nights with
projects, spiritual studies, reading and spending time with his family. A last note of interest: If you live on or visit the island and you have a heavy foot on the gas pedal, especially along the Seawall, you might want to slow down. The city has been working very hard to improve Seawall and had recently lowered the speed limit to 35 MPH, from end to end. There were some areas of higher speed limits, however in an effort to increase pedestrian and motorist safety, the limit has been lowered. With the number of visitors and beach-goers increasing so much as Seawall improvements begin, the city feels lowering the speed limit as well as designating well-marked crosswalks and stronger enforcement will aid the congested boulevard and cut down the number of accidents and injuries occurring along the route. Next time you are cruising along the Seawall and looking for eye-candy and other distractions, remember to slow down and watch your speed. So as summer winds down and folks are racing to get in their last beach getaways, remember to be safe, look out for others and, most of all, when you are on the island, have some fun! e Forest Riggs, a resident of Galveston, is no stranger to the adventures of life. A former educator and business owner, he enjoys Island life and all that comes with it. He says he is a “raconteur with a quixotic, gypsy spirit.” Forest has written for several newspapers and magazines as well as other writing pursuits, including a novel and collection of short stories.
Austin weather guru, Bob Rose
Larry ‘Pickles’ King, on the mend in Fort Worth
Christin Roe (right) and husband Danny, raising money for Trans Assistance Project +1 Google+ F Facebook.com & P Find us on P
Montrose Star e | Wednesday August 9, 2017 | PAGE 25
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PAGE 26 | Montrose Star e | Wednesday August 9, 2017
Crossword Queeries
A-MAIZE-ING MARLON Across
51 Fruitcake
12 Eastern U.S. region
1 Superman portrayer Dean
53 Position, in religion
15 Drawn-out assault
On
54 Collection suffix
21 Frequent online claim
Down the Road”
55 End of the quote
22 Mo. to elect pro-gay pols
9 Lickety-split
59 Crack the whip at, e.g.
26 Oooookla., once
13 Poet Seward
61 Poet Dickinson
28 Spill one’s seed
14 Like the menagerie
62 Mapplethorpe model, often
29 Singer Anita
of Tennessee
63 City near Tulsa
30 Short messages
64 Prepare to get plucked
33 HIV exam, e.g.
17 Say “So Long, Farewell”
65 The Unicorn author Murdoch
35 Prepared to
18 Place for a G-string
66 Fairy particles
become a breeder
19 If not
67 Feel (for)
36 Mork’s sign-off
20 Start of a quote about
68 Match parts, to Navratilova
37 Seismic sea waves
Marlon growing maize?
Down
38 “For
23 Foaming at the mouth
1 Heads, to Caesar
39 Gene’s makeup
24 It tops a queen
2 Prop for “I have a
40 Loud, to Copland
25 Diva’s problem
headache tonight ...”
44 JFK posting
27 Hans Christian of fairy tales
3 Serious encroachment
45 Tool for cutting carrots
31 Just the same
4 Temperament
47 Mauresmo’s game
32 Beckett no-show
5 “How queer!”
48 Bear
34 Jockey’s handful
6 Summer and Smoke heroine
49 Go over again
35 Movie of this puzzle’s quote
7 Car from Sweden
50 Burnout cause
41 Place for pansies
8 Name on a drag
52 Lily Tomlin, for one
42 Simple kind of question
queen’s compact
56 Talk show cohost
43 Like a careless
9 Shock’s partner
57 Glenn Burke, formerly
man’s condom
10 Giant actor
58 Daly of Judging Amy
46 Top athletes
11 Margaret Cho show
60 Summer hours in N.Y.C.
5“
16 “What
thinking?”
+1 Google+ F Facebook.com & P Find us on P
jolly good ...”
Montrose Star e | Wednesday August 9, 2017 | PAGE 27
Cooking With Paula Dream moving it until bacon is golden brown, about three minutes. Do not flip chicken. Sprinkle each breast with one tablespoon sugar. Transfer skillet to oven and roast, about 15 to 20 minutes. Remove skillet from oven and heat broiler. Broil until bacon is well browned, about four to five minutes. Let chicken rest about five minutes before serving. VERY SIMPLE TOMATO SALAD.
1-1/2 pounds ripe red, yellow, green tomatoes (cored and sliced 1/4 inch thick) 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil 1 tablespoon minced shallot 1 teaspoon lemon juice 1/4 teaspoon salt Bacon-wrapped chicken breast
S 20 (Be sure to dry the artichokes very well with paper towels; excess water can make the dip look soupy.) Bake until bubbling around the edges, about 30 minutes. Let cool for about 10 minutes, allowing it to set, then serve with tortilla chips, pita chips, or cut vegetables. BACON-WRAPPED CHICKEN BREAST.
1 teaspoon minced fresh rosemary 1 teaspoon salt 3/4 teaspoon pepper 4 (6 to 8 ounce) boneless skinless chicken breast, trimmed 8 strips bacon (thin-sliced) 1 tablespoon vegetable oil 1/4 cup packed brown sugar
Heat oven to 350 degrees, adjusting oven rack six inches from broiler element. Combine rosemary, salt, and pepper in bowl. Sprinkle chicken all over with mixture. Wrap each chicken breast with two pieces of bacon. Starting with one piece of bacon on the underside of wide end of breast, stretch and wrap bacon around breast, spiraling down toward middle. Continue wrapping with second piece of bacon until breast is completely wrapped and bacon seams end up on underside of breast. Heat oil in a 12-inch skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add chicken with bacon seam down, cooking without Very simple tomato salad
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1/4 teaspoon black pepper 2 tablespoons pine nuts, toasted 1 tablespoon fresh basil, torn
Arrange tomatoes on a large shallow platter. Whisk oil, shallot, lemon juice, salt and pepper in bowl. Spoon dressing over tomatoes. Sprinkle with pine nuts and basil. Best served with some crusty bread to sop up this wonderful dressing. For a variation to this recipe you can add one tablespoon rinsed capers, some mince anchovy and a few red pepper flakes to taste, and substitute fresh parsley for the basil. e Paula Dream, AKA Kale Haygood, owns Beyond Service, a Montrose-based home-cooking catering company. For more information, call 713-805-4106 or email barrykale@yahoo.com.
PAGE 28 | Montrose Star e | Wednesday August 9, 2017
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Deep Inside Hollywood
L Word revival in development
e By
RoMeo San ViCenTe
howtime knows what you want. And because you’re like us, you want – you have always wanted – more L Word. It was trashy, it was silly, it was like very few actual lesbians you know in real life, and it was glorious. Jennifer Beals knows this. So does Leisha Hailey and Kate Moennig. The three of them are working as producers on a revival of the series, currently in development at Showtime. Should it all go well and come to series – that’s what “in development” means, btw; it could all disintegrate over the course of a lunch gone wrong – the premise for now is that Bette, Alice and Shane would still be living in Los Angeles, surrounded by a pack of fresh lesbians. Or maybe more of the original cast will come back, too. Who knows. It’s all so very up in the air that it’s almost jinxing to talk about it. But Beals recently spoke to Entertainment Weekly about the project and she took the words out of our mouth: “We are needed.” Yes, they are. Start praying to the goddess, y’all. Kevin Spacey is (and is not) Gore Vidal Author and public intellectual Gore Vidal died in 2012, and his legacy – in the late 1960s, before Stonewall, he calmly and defiantly declared that his homosexuality was absolutely normal on a not-exactly-progressively-minded Mike Wallace news special titled, The Homosexuals – has been in need of a good solid biopic for some time. Now Netflix is shooting one now called Gore. Little is known about the production besides its director, Michael Hoffman (The Last Station), and its star, Kevin Spacey. But that star name is enough for now, because it raises some issues, not the least of which is the ongoing dance of denial Spacey has going with the press regarding his own sexuality. On the subject he’s tight-lipped, he’s playfully sarcastic, he’s antagonistic, he’s merely silent. He says what he wants, unless he doesn’t want to talk about it at all. And now, like Queen Latifah in Bessie, he’s playing a historical queer public figure while refusing to speak up about the absolutely normal. In the end, though, it’s the performance that counts in art, and Spacey will be great as Vidal because he’ll bring the author’s prickly, agitated intelligence to the part. Just don’t blame us for wanting a little more than that. Barry Jenkins is going his own way
The temptation for a filmmaker feeling the first flush of success – let’s call that filmmaker Barry Jenkins, whose magnificent Moonlight won the Academy Award for Best Picture – is to take the next big paycheck. And in Hollywood, in 2017, the big paycheck often means joining the Marvel Cinematic Universe and, let’s keep it real here, stifling your own creative vision and fitting yourself into the onehanded you by a corporate entity. But Barry Jenkins has other ideas. His next move will be to adapt the 1974 James
Photo: KathClick.
S
Jennifer Beals
Baldwin novel, If Beale Street Could Talk. Set in Harlem, the story revolves around a young engaged couple, with the man falsely accused of rape. Baldwin, who was black, gay, and could never once be accused of going along to get along (see the incredible documentary about his life, I Am Not Your Negro, to learn more), would probably be very pleased to see his work adapted by the serious-minded Jenkins. And while we’d also be thrilled to see what he’d do with a superhero story, this feels just right. Tony Kushner is writing a play about Donald Trump
In Tony Kushner’s acclaimed ’90s play Angels In America, there’s a scene in which the closeted politician Roy Cohn reacts to his AIDS diagnosis with an infamous monologue. In it, he declares that “Homosexuals are men who know nobody and who nobody knows.” Well, it turns out Roy Cohn and a younger Donald Trump were quite close in the 1980s, call the former a shark-like mentor to the latter, teaching him all the worst possible lessons of public life. And now it also just so happens that Kushner, the man who immortalized Cohn’s true legacy, is writing a play about the current sitting President of the United States. It has no title, and there are no details to share, but it’s happening, which means that we may yet see a definitive piece of art related to this person, one that is more substantive than a late-night talk show host’s impersonation or blistering response on Twitter, from a playwright who knows very well how to contextualize history at its most mind-boggling. Any why is he doing it? Call it a writer’s challenge. The Daily Beast, quoting Kushner: “[Trump]’s the kind of person, as a writer, I tend to avoid as I think he is borderline psychotic. I definitely think that incoherence lends itself well to drama, but he really is very boring. It’s terrifying because he has all the power, but without the mental faculties he ought to have. I think he is seriously mentally ill, and the fact that he is in the White House is very frightening.” We’ll wait, patiently. e Romeo San Vicente has a very long memory. +1 Google+ Find us on P F Facebook.com & P
Montrose Star e | Wednesday August 9, 2017 | PAGE 29
PAGE 30 | Montrose Star e | Wednesday August 9, 2017
HOUSTON
n MONTROSE - MIDTOWN Bayou City Bar & Grill 2409 Grant St, Houston (713) 522-2867 | • bayoucitybar.com Dance | Food | Patio | Mixed Crocker Bar 2312 Crocker St, Houston (713) 529-3355 Large Deck | Karaoke F Bar 202 Tuam St, Houston (713) 522-3227 | • fbarhouston.com Dance/Club | Patio | Shows | Mixed George’s Country Sports Bar 617 Fairview Ave, Houston (713) 528-8102 Sports Bar | Pool & Darts | Patio Guava Lamp 570 Waugh Dr, Houston (713) 524-3359 • guavalamphouston.com Video Lounge | Karaoke | Mixed JR’s Bar and Grill & Santa Fe 808 Pacific St, Houston (713) 521-2519 • jrsbarandgrill.com Videos | Patio | Karaoke | Shows Michael’s Outpost Piano Bar 1419 Richmond Ave, Houston (713) 520-8446 Neighborhood Bar | Pub | Piano South Beach 810 Pacifi c Ave, Houston (713) 521-0107 • sobehouston.com Dance Club | Dancers | Trance/House Rich's Houston 2401 San Jacinto (281) 846-6685 RichsNightclub.com TC’s Show Bar 817 Fairview Ave, Houston (713) 526-2625 • tcsshowbar.com Shows | Neighborhood Bar | CD/Trans
Guide To The Clubs The Ripcord 715 Fairview St, Houston (713) 521-2792 • facebook.com/ ripcordhouston Leather | Uniform | Fetish | Men
n NW HOUSTON Neon Boots Dancehall & Saloon 11410 Hempstead Highway Houston, TX 77092 (713) 677-0828 • neonbootsclub.com
n DOWNTOWN / EADO Lucky’s Pub - Downtown 801 St Emanuel St, 77003 (713) 522-2010 • Luckyspub.com Sports Bar | Food
Viviana’s Night Club 4624 Dacoma St, Houston (713) 681-4101 • vivianasniteclub.com Latino | Tejano | Dance
Moon Tower Inn 3004 Canal St, 77003 (832) 969-1934 • damngoodfoodcoldassbeer.com Hot Dogs | Beer Gardens Neil’s Bahr 2006 Walker St, 77003 (281) 352-7456 • NeilsBahr.com Premier Nerd | Gamer | Intellectual hangout Tout Suite 2001 Commerce, 77002 713-227-8688 • toutsuitetx.com Bakery | Cafe | Pub Voodoo Queen 322 Milby St, 77003 713-555-5666 • damngoodfoodcoldassbeer.com Casual | Po’ Boys | Games n DOWNTOWN / WARDS 1-4 Tony’s Corner Pocket 817 West Dallas Street, Houston (713) 571-7870 • tonyscornerpocket.com Neighborhood Bar | Pool | Dancers
n HOUSTON - SW Crystal Night Club 6684 SW Fwy, Houston (713) 278- 2582 • crystaltheclub.com Latin Dance | Salsa n HEIGHTS / WASHINGTON CORRIDOR Pearl Lounge 4216 Washington, Houston 832-740-4933 • pearlhouston.com Neighborhood Art Bar | Live Music | Women
GALVESTON
23rd Street Station 1706 23rd St, Galveston (409) 443-5678 • 23rdstreetstation.com Neighborhood Bar | Pub | Shows Robert’s Lafitte 2501 Ave Q, Galveston (409) 765-9092 • galveston.com/robertslafitte Neighborhood Bar | Pub | Cruise | Shows Rumors Beach Bar 3102 Seawall Blvd., Galveston (409) 497-4617 • RumorsBeachBar.com Beach bar | Shows
n HOUSTON - NORTH SIDE Ranch Hill Saloon 24704 Interstate 45, Spring (281) 298-9035 • ranchhill.com Country | Cowgirl | Neighborhood Bar The Room Bar 4915 FM 2920 Rd, Spring (281) 907-6866 • roombarspring.com Neighborhood Bar | Shows | Dance | Mixed
SOLUTION FROM p26
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Montrose Star e | Wednesday August 9, 2017 | PAGE 31
SASHA VELOUR!
HouPaul: All Things RuPaul in Houston
Lip sync and m ore!
e By
S
MaRk kaRiel
asha Velour’s unique drag aesthetic (amazingly intellectual and bald!) and high sense of fashion were too much for the other queens to overcome in the Season 9 grand finale of RuPaul’s Drag Race. ConDRAGulations, Sasha! Sasha Velour is a gender-fluid drag queen and designer currently living in Brooklyn. In addition to her appearance on Drag Race, Sasha produces the drag show Nightgowns, and is the creative force behind Velour: The Drag Magazine. Sasha’s journey on RuPaul’s Drag Race, Season 9, included two challenge wins in Episode 4, “Good Morning, Bitches” and Episode 9, “Your Pilot’s On Fire”. Both of these challenge wins were shared with fellow contestant, Shea Coulee, who made her Houston debut at South Beach on Saturday, July 15. Sasha was high in five episodes, safe in four episodes, and low in one episode. Prior to Episode 12, “Category Is”, the fans never got to see Sasha lip sync for her life, meaning she never landed in the bottom two in any episode, which is quite an accomplishment. Episode 12 featured all four remaining queens—Sasha, Peppermint, Shea Coulee and Trinity Taylor—lip syncing for their lives, but Mama Ru declared all four safe and moving on to the Season finale. This is the first season that four queens would still be in contention for the crown going into the grand finale. In that stunning grand finale’s turn of events, RuPaul decided that a “Lip Sync For The Crown” would be held for the first time evah! With the spin of a wheel, it was determined that the first lip sync would pit Peppermint versus Trinity Taylor lip syncing to Britney Spears’ “Stronger”, with Mama Ru declaring Peppermint as the first lip sync winner. Sasha Velour and Shea Coulee (close friends, by the way) then lip-synced against each other to Whitney Houston’s “So Emotional”, and Sasha Velour was declared victorious. In the final “Lip Sync For The Crown”, Sasha Velour and Peppermint lip synced to Whitney Houston’s “It’s Not Right But It’s Okay”. RuPaul then went on to declare Sasha Velour the winner with the title of America’s Next Drag Superstar! I don’t like to be pushy. However, stop what you’re doing right now and go watch those three lip syncs from the grand finale now! I have seen them many times, and decided to watch them all again just now. Prepare yourself for three amazing lip syncs. You’ll be glad you did—trust! RuPaul’s Drag Race Season 9 winner Sasha Velour makes her Houston debut at South Beach (810 Pacific Street, Houston, TX 77006) on Saturday, August 26. That night, Sasha Velour performs one big show with an encore after midnight, followed by an autograph and photo shoot party. Come have your photo taken with this sickening Season 9 winner of RuPaul’s Drag Race! e For more information, visit www.sobehouston.com or call 713-521-0107. +1 Google+ Find us on P F Facebook.com & P
Ru-minder: Stay tuned for the next edition of the MONTROSE STAR for many more upcoming RuPaul’s Drag Race events.