Montrose Star July 26, 2017 by Laura Villagran

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6 Way Gay Things to Get Into Right Now

Houston Rainbow Herald

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WEDNESDAY JULY 26, 2017 e VOL. VIII, 9

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» What a World

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INDEX Editorial Crossword A Couple of Guys

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2 HRH Report

A Daddy for Governor, Inclusive Veterinary Hospital and Other Top Stories e by

johnny trlica

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.

Daddy issues How about a gay daddy for Texas governor? Jeffrey Payne, owner of The Eagle in Dallas, filed as a Democratic candidate for the governor’s race, reports NBCNews.com. The leather bar proprietor won the title of International Mr. Leather in 2009. In a statement, Payne said Texans are tired of Governor Greg Abbott wasting time on “trivial legislation.” “Texas needs a Governor who believes in Real Texas Values, like integrity, honesty, freedom and independence. We need to stop wasting our time and money on trivial legislation and start investing in finding ways to help Texans, their families, and their businesses prosper,” Payne said in a statement. In an interview with CBS Dallas, Payne said he doesn’t think Texas voters will focus on his same-sex marriage—or, presumably, on his links to the BDSMtinged gay leather community. “If we don’t have compromise, and compassion for one another, we’re never going to reach a resolution.” Heights veterinary hospital celebrates diversity It looks like Hope may have a new doctor. Veterinarian Dr. Hilary Granson announced her new LGBTQ owned and operated Urban Animal Veterinary Hospital in a press release to HoustonRainbowHerald.com. “Throughout her career Hilary herself has faced a lot of discrimination due

to her gender non-conforming appearance. That’s ultimately what caused her to open up her own LGBTQ practice,” states the announcement. Her Heights facility is state-of-the-art. “LGBTQ owned and operated, Urban Animal Veterinary Hospital celebrates diversity and offers an environment where everyone should feel welcome. Hospital owner and veterinarian Dr. Hilary Granson says, “We don’t care about what you look like, your gender, whom you choose to love and how you choose to express yourself. We don’t discriminate on whether you’re intact, spayed or neutered, walk on two legs, four or require assistance. Urban Animal respects the uniqueness of anyone that comes into our hospital,” reads the hospital’s website (www. urbananimalveterinary.com). Anti-trans bathroom bill progresses Despite protests from individuals and businesses, Texas is moving closer to passing its “bathroom bills.” After hours of testimony against it, a bill legalizing discrimination against transgender people got approval from a Senate committee on Friday, July 21, and now heads to the full Senate for a vote, reports TexasTribune.com. The law makes it illegal for transgender people to use the bathroom that matches their gender identity and requires them to use the bathroom that matches the sex stated on their birth certificate. The Rent’s too damn high Remember the good old days when gays moved to Montrose because the rent was so cheap? My, how the tables have turned as the gayborhood now has the most expensive rent prices in the Bayou City, according to a report by RentCafe.com with data from YardiMatrix.com. The average apartment in ZIP code 77006 leases for $1,889 a month, making Montrose the priciest area in Houston. If it comes as any consolation, that is the sixth most expensive in the state, with areas of Austin and Dallas coming in at over $2000 per month. Burger wars Who doesn’t love a good burger? Whataburger is finally getting some big league competition now that In-NOut is officially cracking the Houston market, according to CultureMap.com. “After years of rumors and speculation, In-N-Out Burger appears to have concrete plans to open in Houston. The California-based burger chain has purchased property at 8373 Westheimer, according to Harris County records (first posted to the HoustonArchitecture.com and quickly reposted on Reddit.com),” reported the online news source. 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.

Photos courtesy via Eagle Dallas and Urban Animal Veterinary Hospital

THE STAR CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

veryone has that one friend who always plays matchmaker. Mine is Jeannie Mustachia who recently successfully paired me up with a perfect companion. Unfortunately, it wasn’t the man of my dreams. Hope is a seven or eight year-old black Labrador Retriever that Jeannie had been fostering for more than a year. In May, Jeannie accepted a temporary job out of town and I agreed to “babysit” Hope while she was gone. Well, let’s just say the babysitting job has turned into a permanent gig. Hope is the sweetest thing, a little shy, completely housetrained and loves her alone time, making her a perfect match as I am away at work all day. I’ll confess it took some time getting used to waking up earlier than normal for her morning walks and picking up after her was a little embarrassing at first, but the rewards are worth it. Adopting an abused animal can be a risky adventure, but if all rescue dogs are as pleasant as Hope, get to your nearest shelter as quickly as possible. Your perfect match may be waiting for you. Here’s a bit of what we’ve been reading at Houston Rainbow Herald.com.

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Jeﬀrey Payne (left) and veterinarian Dr. Hilary Granson.

Montrose Star e | Wednesday July 26, 2017 | PAGE 3

WE FOCUS ON HIV TO HELP YOU FOCUS ON

TODAY

Ask your doctor if a medicine made by Gilead is right for you. 1

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5/10/17 5:51 PM

PAGE 4 | Montrose Star e | Wednesday July 26, 2017

PFLAG-Houston News

ACLU’s Caroline Duble to address PFLAG Houston e By

Linda Bratsen

n Sunday, August 13, 2017, PFLAG Houston welcomes Caroline Duble, a community organizer with the Houston American Civil Liberties Union as guest speaker. In the United States, LGBTQ students are not specifically protected from discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender identity. As a result, they often must deal with bullying and verbal harassment, sometimes resulting in physical attacks. Duble discusses how LGBTQ students can more effectively assert their individual rights to promote a safe and respectful school enviroanment. The meeting begins at 2 p.m. in the Jones building at St. Paul’s United Methodist Church, 5501 Main Street. Parking is available between Fannin and San Jacinto. Small groups, where members and visitors can confidentially share their individual journeys, follow the program. A small group is dedicated to families of transgender loved ones, as is a group for Spanish speakers.

More PFLAG Houston meetings. PFLAG Houston’s Sharing Meeting meets on the third Thursday of each month, beginning at 7:30 p.m. The meeting is located at Bering United Methodist Church, 1440 Harold Street in Houston. Look for the rainbow flag inside.

Gender Infinity Conference T he 2017 Gender Infinity Conference is scheduled October 13 and14, 2017 from 8 a.m. until 5:30 p.m. at University of Houston’s Student Center South (4800 Calhoun Road, Houston, TX 77004). Gender Infinity creates affirming spaces for families, learners, advocates, and providers to advance relationships, knowledge, and resources that empower gender diverse individuals. The group aims to promote justice, equity, and hope in the celebration of infinite gender possibilities. For more information, please visit www.genderinfinity.org/.

PFLAG Houston’s Yahoo Group subscription list is confidential, and all members can immediately post messages to all other members of the network. Subscribers may search PFLAG Houston’s archives to look at all previous listings.

PFLAG Houston’s Clear Lake chapter meets the fourth Sunday of each month at 2 p.m. at Bay Area Unitarian Universalist Church in the fellowship hall. The church is located at 17503 El Camino Real Drive in Clear Lake. PFLAG Houston invites all family members, parents and/or youth who are having problems with coming out issues, and welcomes everyone, regardless of religious affiliation, ethnicity or political persuasion. The group is proud of its rich history and the continued contributions of members, and invites all to learn more about the organization and join in efforts to create a more diverse, accepting society.

Houston ACLU community organizer Carolyn Duble

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For information about support, upcoming events and meetings, as well as up-to-date news relevant to PFLAG Houston’s family and friends, visit www. pflaghouston.org, email PFLAG Houston’s hotline at helpline@pflaghouston.org or call 713-467-3524. e

Montrose Star e | Wednesday July 26, 2017 | PAGE 5

OP-ED

Creep of the Week: Jeff Sessions e by

d’anne witkowski

hen the country’s chief law says it’s hard being Christian in America enforcement officer meets with doesn’t know what “hard” means and likely a group that toils daily to hurt LGBTQ The cultural climate doesn’t know what “Christian” means, people, that’s deeply troubling. But when either. has become less he goes out of his way to praise said antiSessions continued, “The challenges our LGBTQ group, LGBTQ people have a hospitable to people of nation faces today concerning our historic good reason to be worried. First Amendment right to the ‘free exercise’ faith and Not that Attorney General Jeff of our faith have become acute.” Again, no. Sessions has every inspired confidence to religious belief The only thing acute here is the Christianity in anyone who cares about civil rights. Persecution Complex on display. Sessions has a long history of being a Sessions did say something I agree with. racist and, lo and behold, he doesn’t like He spoke of the government having a role LGBTQ people. Funny how those things “to provide the great secular structure” that tend to go together. is supposed to protect everybody’s rights. On July 11, Sessions spoke at the Alliance Defending He then undermines this very concept: “This Department Freedom’s Summit on Religious Liberty. of Justice will never allow this secular government of ours Now, that sounds nice. Who on earth could be against to demand that sincere religious beliefs be abandoned. We joining together to defend freedom? And wasn’t this country will not require American citizens to give intellectual assent founded on religious liberty? to doctrines that are contrary to their religious beliefs. And Alas, ADF’s definition of freedom is limited mainly to white they must be allowed to exercise those beliefs as the First heterosexual Christians. Ditto to religious freedom, especially Amendment guarantees.” if that religious freedom is being used to deny a couple of Now, of course the DOJ shouldn’t restrict religious belief. homos a wedding cake or something. But Sessions is clearly of the mind that by enforcing, say, antiOh, and wouldn’t you know it, ADF is currently representing discrimination laws that are designed to protect LGBTQ a baker who refused to cake for a gay wedding. A case on its way people is tantamount to quashing the free speech of antito the Supreme Court. No press was allowed, but Sessions’s LGBTQ people. Keep in mind that “religious freedom” has prepared remarks were published online by The Federalist. been used to defend things like slavery and segregation. After quoting Washington, Jefferson, and Martin Luther Sessions goes on to say, “Under this administration, King Jr. (to prove he’s not racist), Sessions lamented how hard religious Americans will be treated neither as an afterthought it is to be Christian in America. nor as a problem to be managed.” “The cultural climate has become less hospitable to people Says the guy who supports a ban on Muslims. of faith and to religious belief,” Sessions said. “And in recent Sessions has proved time and time again that he cannot be years, many Americans have felt that their freedom to practice trusted to enforce this country’s civil rights laws. He has the right their faith has been under attack.” under the first amendment to say otherwise, but Americans have Yes. This checks out. If you are Muslim, that is (or another the freedom, for now at least, to call him a liar. e religion practiced predominantly by people who aren’t white 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. and is thus swept up in anti-Muslim hysteria). Anyone who

TOC JULY 26, 2017 | VOL. VIII, 9

“

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COOKING WITH PAULA DREAM

Tasty fish and fritters

DEEP INSIDE HOLLYWOOD

Colton Haynes joins cast of American Horror Story

HRH Report ....................................................... 2 PFLAG-Houston News .................................... 4 OP-ED.................................................................. 5

What A World ................................................... 8 Out at the Theatre ........................................... 9

The Frivolist ..................................................... 12 Cooking With Paula Dream ........................ 18

Foodie Diaries ................................................. 19 Next2Weeks Community Calendar ......... 20 Across the Causeway.................................... 21 Next2Weeks Community Calendar .......... 23 Next2Weeks Community Calendar .......... 23 HouPaul: All things RuPaul in Houston! .. 25

Crossword Queeries ..................................... 26

HouPaul: All things RuPaul in Houston ... 27 Deep Inside Hollywood ............................... 29

WAIVER:

CORRECTIONS & AMPLIFICATIONS:

July 26, 2017: None as of press time. +1 Google+ Find us on P F Facebook.com & P

PAGE 6 | Montrose Star e | Wednesday July 26, 2017

In Memoriam:

Debbie Hunt D

1961-2017

ebra Elizabeth Hunt passed from this life in Galveston on July 12, 2017 after a valiant struggle with ovarian cancer. She died surrounded by her loved ones. Debbie was 56 years old. Debbie was born in San Antonio, Texas on May 7, 1961 to Joe Wesley Hunt and Martha Elizabeth Hunt. She was preceded in death by her father, Joe Hunt and by her spouse Connie Moore. Debbie is survived by her life partner Arabia Vargas of Galveston, her mother Martha Elizabeth Hunt (Cooke), sister Tracy Eileen Mitchell, nieces Rachel Mitchell and Samantha Mitchell, nephews Michael Cabral and Ryan Mitchell and his wife Dani Mitchell, her “pal” Justin Pick and many members of her extended Hunt and Cooke family. She graduated from the University Of Houston School Of Law in 1987. Soon after graduation, she became a founding partner of the Moore & Hunt law firm in Houston. Her legal practice was focused on estate planning, wills and probate. For nearly 30 years, Debbie enjoyed assisting her clients with end of life planning. She was a pioneer in promoting gay and lesbian rights. She was highly respected by her peers in the legal profession and beloved by her many clients. In 2017 Debbie received the Emerging Leader award from the Stonewall Association of Greater Houston and a scholarship was established in her honor for deserving law students. Debbie loved life, family and friends. She was a source of strength and wisdom to everyone she knew. Debbie was an enthusiastic, long-standing member of the Houston Pride Band, playing all manner of percussion instruments. Performing with the band always thrilled her. An avid sports fan, she delighted in cheering for her Astros, Texans, LSU Tigers, and UH Cougars. Debbie was known for her trademark converse shoes in every color. At her death her converse collection numbered 86 pairs.

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Debbie’s family would like to thank Dr. Gwyn Richardson for her continued kindness and care and her Gyn/Onc care team at UTMBGalveston. The family requests that donations be made in her memory to the Stonewall Association of Greater Houston Debra E. Hunt scholarship fund or the American Cancer Society through their websites, or to the Houston Pride Band through its website, www.houston-prideband.org. The following was posted on Houston Pride band’s Facebook page, following the announcement of Debbie’s death: “The Houston Pride Band will dearly miss our beloved friend, mentor, and fellow musician, Debbie Hunt. Debbie, who ironically was a percussionist by training, was the heartbeat of our organization for over 25 years. Along with her wife Connie, she brought fun, laughter, and love to both the Houston Pride Band and to our national parent organization, the Lesbian and Gay Band Association. She was with us just last month, carrying the Houston Pride Band banner in the Houston Pride Parade…. The Houston Pride Band will miss our friend Debbie. We are sad that she will not be with us August 31-September 3 when Houston hosts the 2017 LGBA national conference, but we know she’ll be with us in spirit, probably beating her own drum.” A memorial service for Debbie will be held on August 19, 4 p.m. at Carnes Brothers Funeral Home, 1201 Tremont, Galveston, Texas. e

Montrose Star e | Wednesday July 26, 2017 | PAGE 7

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PAGE 8 | Montrose Star e | Wednesday July 26, 2017

What A World Lookee! Lookee!

‘The L Word’ returns e By

Nancy Ford

t long last, lovely news has emerged in this heartbreaker of a year. Following a lengthy, languid, lugubrious eight-year period during which lesbians were forced to be entertained by their own pitiful dramas, it has been announced that The L Word will return. Lo, Showtime’s affable Sapphic TV trainwreck that ran between 2004 and 2009 was must-see viewing for a huge load of lesbians, lesbian wanna-be’s and, of course, lecherous straight men who tuned in for the libidinous girl-on-girl action. Lord, how we’ve missed our girls and the myriad lurkers and lookers who rolled in and out of The L Word’s 70 original episodes. Lamentably, when we last saw our L ladies, lawmen had fished the lifeless body of the deeply disturbed, yet deliciously hate-able “Jenny Schecter” (Mia Kirschner) from a swimming pool. None other than Zena, Warrior Princess herself (Lucy Lawless) was interrogating cast members to determine who was responsible for Jenny’s death. The series then abruptly ended, leaving loyal cliff-hanging fans to wonder if Jenny suicided, was murdered, or had simply expired from natural causes due to her own insufferable lunacy. According to Variety, “Showtime is currently in the process of bringing on a new writer, executive producer and show-runner who specifically has ties to the lesbian community to bring a fresh perspective to the show by documenting how relationships and experiences have evolved today, and what has changed and hasn’t changed, since the show first aired.” But when does this longawaited update debut? What date? We need to know when to cancel HBO and resubscribe to Showtime. And how will series creator Ilene Chaiken fast forward eight years to a next-gen TLW? Here’s an idea: The new season opens with the yummy, oversexed “Shane McCutcheon” (Katherine Moenning) lustfully lolling in bed, as she is wont to do. She slowly opens her eyes and flings off the sheets to reveal her lithe, boyish body. She is naked except for her designer tighty whities, just one of the products marketed under her own highly successful multi-national clothing label. Shane stumbles into the bathroom where steam is rolling from her shower. She opens the opaque shower door to see a lathered-up feminine form that slowly turns to her and says, “Good morning!” We see that it is Jenny. Shane collapses in shock, hits her head on the bathroom sink and dies immediately, giving everyone a brand new reason to +1 Google+ Find us on P F Facebook.com & P

hate Jenny. It becomes apparent that TLW’s abbreviated Season 6 was simply Shane’s elongated fever dream, brought about by her lingering post orgasmic illness syndrome. (Yes, that’s a thing.) As for other The L Word characters… • “Tina Kennard” (Laurel Holloman) has risen to the top of the indie film industry and now runs her own studio, financed by an unnamed sugar mommy. Tina still waivers between her attraction to both women and men, and is subsequently a nightmare to get behind in line at a Subway counter where she is unable to decide what kind of bread to order for her Veggie Delite®. • “Bette Porter” (Jennifer Beals) loses her gallery after being hit with a series of sexual harassment lawsuits stemming from her refusal to resist a Cosby-level stream of young art interns. Broken in body and spirit and living on the streets, she descends into alcoholism and drug addiction and is kept alive by the largesse of an anonymous passer-by who enjoys her sidewalk chalk art and generously drops $100 bills into her stained, battered, trenta-sized Starbucks cup. • “Kit Porter” (Pam Grier) now has her own rehab center/juice bar/ jazz club (thanks to a silent partner) where her sister Bette drops in to indulge in a monthly mango/kale/ estrogen cleanse and enjoy the club’s sporadic k.d. lang retrospectives. • “Max Sweeney” (Daniela Sea) revolutionizes the public lavatory industry by designing and marketing non-gender specific urinals. Ze later becomes the first non-gender specific U.S. senator, thanks to limitless financial backing from a dark money source. • “Dana Fairbanks” (Erin Daniels), who succumbed to breast cancer in Season 3, is genetically reanimated thanks to DNA extracted from a sweaty tennis towel kept in a locker all these years by a mystery stalker. Dana 2 is an even more accomplished athlete who breaks world-wide tennis records by simultaneously pummeling both Serena Williams and John McEnroe in a two-on-one match played at Martina Navratilova’s estate. • “Alice Pieszecki” (Leisha Hailey), buoyed by the popularity of “The Chart”, her useful “who-boinkedwho” tracker app, goes full-blown Silicon Valley, becoming a multibillionaire and the behind-the-scenes facilitator of the dreams and schemes of all of her L friends. Unfortunately, Alice’s seemingly limitless largesse is eventually drained, returning her to her previous life as an impoverished but still adorable freelance writer. It’s the way that she lives and loves.

Montrose Star e | Wednesday July 26, 2017 | PAGE 9

Out at the Theatre

e By

Randall Jobe

bsidian Theater presents Saucy Jack and the Space Vixens, a scifi musical in which all is not well. The evil shadow of a serial killer looms over the space-dive bar where cabaret performers are being killed off one by one. Luckily, the Space Vixens arrive to investigate. Part divas, part space heroes, the Space Vixensare allwoman champions of justice, whiskey and disco! Through August 8. 3522 White Oak Drive. Tickets: www. obsidiantheater.org or 832-889-7357. A.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 in July 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. Stages Repertory Theatre kicks off its 40th anniversary season with the crowd-pleasing, Always…Patsy Cline. It is one of the most performed stage productions in the United States, written by Stages’ founding artistic

p.m. Fridays, 8 p.m. Saturdays, 2:30 p.m. and 8 p.m. Sundays, 2:30 p.m. 3201 Allen Parkway. Tickets: www. stagestheatre.com or 713-527-0123. 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 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. On May 28, 1985, star-struck Elizabeth Fuller’s dream came true when legendary Bette Obsidian Theater Davis came to dinner at her director Ted Swindley and directed dilapidated New England cottage. by current artistic director Kenn Queensbury Theatre presents McLaughlin. It is an internationally the play, Me & Jezebel, Four weeks acclaimed musical based on a true after her arrival, Ms. Davis is still story and the unlikely friendship there as the New York Hotel strike between the beloved country singer rages on. In one short month she and an avid fan. Filled with 27 conquers suburbia, takes over the unforgettable song renderings that Fullers’ home and changes their lives flood the stage, and the audience, forever. Directed by Ron Jones and with memories, it stars Kelley Peters starring Houston icon Mary Hooper as “Patsy” and Susan Koozin as as Davis. Thursdays through Sundays, “Louise Seger”. Through August 20. August 4 through 27. Tickets: www. Wednesdays and Thursdays, 7:30 queensburytheatre.org or 713-467-4497.

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PAGE 10 | Montrose Star e | Wednesday July 26, 2017

Author Kevin Troxall’s ‘One Town’s Son’ explores murder, rural corruption W

Tony’s Place and Salvation Army’s Young Adult Resource Center join to assist homeless youth M

any hundreds of young people are living on the streets in Houston. Now two organizations, Tony’s Place and The Salvation Army’s Young Adult Resource Center (YARC), have begun an important collaboration to serve these young people. The two organizations have just begun sharing space at their new campus at 1621 McGowen Street, next door to The Salvation Army’s Family Residence women and children’s shelter. Each will maintain its separate identity, while providing services that complement those of the other. “The Salvation Army’s mission is to serve those most in need, without discrimination, and to meet the need of its local community,” said Major Kent Davis, area commander for The Salvation Army of Greater Houston. “Through this collaboration with Tony’s Place, we will be able to provide more services to the young adults who reach out to us for help.” “This is a wonderful opportunity for us to advance our mission of serving LGBT youth. In a recent count, about 25 percent of young people experiencing homelessness identified as LGBT,” said Al Amado, Tony’s Place board chair. “The Salvation Army’s YARC program has been at the forefront of caring for the needs of homeless youth for many years. The chance to work with YARC to address the unique needs of LGBT youth is extraordinary.” YARC is now open Monday through Thursday, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Tony’s Place has moved from its original location on Montrose Boulevard to the McGowen campus. It is open Fridays and Saturdays, 12 noon to 5 p.m. The two groups share similar missions. YARC connects homeless young adults 18 through 25 to housing, education and job training. Other services include emergency meals, job coaching and tutoring. Tony’s Place started as a drop-in center for LGBT youth up to 24 years

old who do not have stable housing. Its services to members have included hot meals, showers, laundry, clothing and use of computers. Tony’s Place is named for the late community leader Tony Carroll. “We stepped in as new players in the area, focusing on LGBT youth, and YARC has consistently been a wonderful strategic partner. With our tighter collaboration at the same location, we expect to be able to provide targeted case management for our members, instead of just providing basic services under a drop-in center model,” Amado noted. “Being on the same campus leverages the resources of both organizations, and that helps our clients more, while maximizing our resources. This now gives us the ability to tailor our programs and focus more on the special needs of LGBT youth, while still serving all youth in need.” YARC program manager Rafael Sarango added, “We are looking forward to not only being able to help even more young adults experiencing homelessness, but also be able to provide them with even more resources than before, thanks to this collaboration with Tony’s Place.” The Salvation Army Greater Houston Area Command serves Harris, Montgomery and Fort Bend Counties through youth programs, homeless shelters, disaster relief, social services, senior programs and rehabilitation. The mission of The Salvation Army Greater Houston Area Command is to meet human needs without discrimination. About 86.3 cents of every dollar raised locally is used to support the services offered in the Greater Houston Area. Nationally, The Salvation Army assists nearly 30 million Americans each year across 5,000 communities. The Salvation Army of Greater Houston is a United Way agency. For more information, please visit SalvationArmyHouston.org.

as it an accident? Or was it something more sinister? No one could say…or would say. A journey home to Glasgow, Kentucky, to investigate the death of former classmate and friend, Scotty Martin, brings author Kevin Troxall face to face with his own past to reconcile how growing up in the Bible Belt has shaped him as a gay man. Six years after Matthew Shepherd was brutally beaten and left to die in Laramie, Wyoming, Scotty Martin lay bleeding from his head at the foot of a retaining wall after his 10-year high school reunion in Glasgow, Kentucky. Ten days later, on author and friend Kevin Troxall’s birthday, Martin succumbed to his injuries and passed away in a Nashville hospital. Unlike Shepherd’s story, Martin’s would be quietly swept under the rug, all but forgotten by most of the town. However, as both Troxall and Martin were from Glasgow, both gay, and grew up just a year apart, Troxall felt a kinship with the victim and could not get the incident out of his mind. In the small southern town, rumors began to circulate about a potential sexual encounter, possible foul play, a botched investigation, cover-ups and conspiracies. Troxall was drawn to do his own investigation, and ensure Scotty’s story would be told. This is the story of One Town’s Son. “Simply put, I wanted to know what happened to Scotty and no one could tell me,” stated Troxall. “With so many stories as to what may have happened that night, I really wanted to separate fact from fiction. I also realized that, if this was a hate crime as I had heard in the gossip, I could have been the victim one year earlier at my reunion. It was unsettling to know that this could happen in my hometown.” Amid the investigation, Troxall found himself returning to his hometown both figuratively, through interviews with locals and reunion attendees, and literally, as he traveled back to pull reports, visit the site of the incident, and complete his research over a three-year span. In doing so, he realized that the book was as much about his return home to face his past, as it was to find the truth about what happened to Martin. “They say ‘You can never go home again,’ and there is some truth to that,” Troxall continued. “Glasgow was a fine

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place to grow up, even as a gay man. I had a loving family, great friends and a wonderful childhood. But when you return to a hometown of 13,000 people after living in L.A., Chicago, and New York, you realize how much the town has shaped you, and how much you resent it. It was a good life, but there was so much I didn’t know and saw again for the first time.” More than 15 years after the incident and more than five years after completing the book, Troxall was still compelled to release the book to keep the memory of Scotty Martin alive, as his murder investigation has now grown cold. It is Troxall’s hope that through the publishing of this book, the public’s feedback and the subsequent coverage, the Kentucky State Police will reopen the case and complete a more thorough investigation. One Town’s Son is Kevin Troxall’s first novel. A nosy person by nature, he has always been a fan of true crime and memoir. He is a native of Glasgow, Kentucky, and currently resides in Los Angeles, California with his husband

of 17 years, and their beagle Zoe. One Town’s Son (ISBN 9780692880487) is available online at numerous retailers including Amazon and Barnes & Noble and at any bookstore upon request. Troxall has also published additional documents, photos, and case evidence on a companion website at www. onetownsson.com to encourage dialogue and discussion. e

Montrose Star e | Wednesday July 26, 2017 | PAGE 11

HEALTH

AND

SEX BELONG TOGETHER

Healthysexuals

LOVE SHARING Talk about your sexual health. #NoFilter VISIT AND TALK TO A HEALTHCARE PROVIDER

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7/5/17 10:53 AM

PAGE 12 | Montrose Star e | Wednesday July 26, 2017

The Frivolist

6 way gay things to get into right now e by

Mikey Rox

ne of the best parts of my job as an LGBT lifestyle expert is discovering all the dynamic new people, places and things expected to interest the LGBT community. Some do, some don’t – I sift through A LOT of duds, in fact (like the travel-size cold-sore medicine one PR hack pitched me for years because he thought it would make a great stocking stuffer at Christmastime) – but every once in a while I stumble upon a few gems to tell you about it. As such, here’s what I’m into right now – and you might be too. 1. REVRY LGBT Streaming Service You have to tip your feathered caps to Netflix, Hulu and other popular streaming services for providing (for the most part) satisfying LGBT programming options, like trans creator Jill Soloway’s awardwinning Transparent over at Amazon. But now you can effectively eliminate all the hetero noise clogging up your queues and go full “queerated content” thanks to REVRY, the first dedicated LGBTQ+ digital streaming platform. Available on Apple TV, Chromecast, Roku, plus iOS and Android devices (with Pluto.tv and Amazon Fire capabilities coming soon), REVRY, which recently celebrated its first anniversary, features original content like 3030, a series about platonic black lesbian roommates living in Las Vegas; the newly added Bob the Drag Queen comedy special, Suspiciously Large Woman; as well as international shows and movies, like the subtitled Free Fall, characterized as the German Brokeback Mountain. Spoiler alert: They bang in the woods using nature’s lube. 2. Varsity Gay League When I lived in Manhattan I was a regular on the social sports scene – both “straight” and gay leagues – playing a wide range of activities, including bowling, kickball, dodgeball, trivia and cornhole (and yaaas, competitive cornhole is totally considered a sport, queen). When I left NYC for life in a small beach community on the Jersey Shore, however, being part of these teams was among the things I missed most. That could all change soon, though, as I was recently introduced to Varsity Gay League, which is celebrating

its milestone 10th anniversary this year. VGL is the largest sports league in California with more than 8,000 members, and it has outposts in San Diego, San Francisco, Long Beach, Sacramento, Austin, Orlando and Portland, with plans to add other major cities to meet demand. I’m currently in talks with the league’s founder Will Hackner to bring VGL to my part of the world, and if you think your city might benefit from this organized homo-raderie, hit ’em up on Twitter @vglsocal. 3. OUTshine on the Sea Earlier this year I attended the 10-day OUTshine LGBT film festival in Miami – which featured some of the best LGBT films I have ever seen (not an exaggeration; find French-Canadian film 1:54 and have a box of Kleenex handy) – and I’m pretty pumped for OUTshine on the Sea, the fest’s sevennight Eastern Caribbean Cruise (hitting Nassau, Punta Cana and St. Thomas), from February 17 to 23, 2018, aboard Celebrity Equinox. If you’re a film and cruise lover – two of my favorite things! – pack your movie-marathon sweatpants and let’s gain 10 pounds of popcorn weight on the open ocean together. 4. Hornet App If you’re fed up with all the blatant racism on your gay dating/hookup apps, take a break and zip into Hornet, a gay social-networking app oddly popular

REVRY LGBT Streaming Service in France, Russia, Brazil, Turkey and Taiwan (you want to expand your horizons, right?), but whose user base is consistently growing here at home. Aside from finding likeminded men nearby (the app includes a GPS component just like Gindr and the gang), you can tap into and share LGBT-focused new stories on its companion website UnicornBooty. com; discover local queer hotspots around your home and when you’re traveling; and keep your social calendar lit with curated homocentric events. 5. Ascension Asbury Park After years of false starts and delayed gentrification, Asbury Park, New Jersey is now a full-fledged LGBT destination for gay men and lesbians alike. There’s no shortage of “fam”-friendly places to stay (you won’t be disappointed with a night at the celebrated Asbury Hotel), dine (upscale Mexi-joint Barrio Costero has margies to die for), and get your swerve on (the pool at Paradise is always poppin’ after midnight on Saturdays during the summer). But if you really want to throw your weekend getaway into overdrive, swoop into town for Ascension, Aug. 4 to 6, featuring 11 high-octane events, including tea dances, beach bashes and glow parties taken to new heights by 14 DJs and thousands of prospective half-night stands. 6. Handmade Sexy Time My boyfriend and I are adventurous, especially when it comes to our bodies and bedroom activity, and we had an arousing at-home date night with Haus of Betch’s hand-crocheted jock straps – it was like Captain America himself was calling me hither in his blue three-starred weiner basket (sorry, no photos) – and an arts-and-crafts project making vibrating dildos of our own dicks with kits from Clone-A-Willy. The latter was a bit stressful because the process moved ultra-fast – we had to get and stay hard while mixing the plaster at an exact 90 degrees and cast our cocks in under three minutes! – but we shared laughs along the way, amazing sex afterward, and now we’ve got life-size replicas of our own wieners that we’ll probably just use to go fuck ourselves whenever we have a tiff. (Sorry; still no photos.) 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 July 26, 2017 | PAGE 13

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PAGE 14 | Montrose Star e | Wednesday July 26, 2017

The OutField

Pioneering football player makes LGBT sports safe e By

dan woog

ost sports fans have heard of Michael Sam. In 2014, the University of Missouri defensive end became the first openly gay Division I football player. Except he wasn’t. A decade before, Eric Lueshen was out to his University of Nebraska teammates. (No disrespect to Mizzou, but the Cornhuskers are one of college football’s truly legendary programs.) Lueshen’s experience was largely positive – and almost entirely media-free. Now he’s happy to talk to the press. But the story he tells is not all about him. Lueshen wants to discuss his passion: making sports safe for everyone. The organization he co-founded – LGBT SportSafe – is an important addition to the athletic world. Yet to understand it, you first must know where it came from. Lueshen calls Pierce, Nebraska – his hometown – “a tiny, conservative farm community.” He had several identities: nerd, band geek, jock (football, track, basketball, baseball and soccer). And gay. (“I was pegged that way even before I knew what gay was,” he says.) He came out in 11th grade. His relationship with his father was “tumultuous,” though today they are close. Lueshen overcame small-town homophobia, and was recruited as a kicker by Nebraska.

Entering college, he says, “I wasn’t going to jump back in the closet. But I’m not the type of person to parade with rainbows either.” However, after his very first team meeting as a freshman, a dozen players made anti-gay comments. Lueshen realized “this might be harder than I ever imagined.” He knew that his sexuality was only a small part of his identify. He was proud of his strong values, and figured they would allow him to be authentic. Fortunately, he lived on a floor with several popular freshman players. When they asked two months later if he was gay– and the word soon spread – their easy acceptance helped pave the way for most teammates to do the same. That other homophobic group persisted, though. A physical confrontation between the 195-pound kicker and a 350-pound lineman left Lueshen shaken. That was then. A year later, at a house party, the “biggest homophobe” welcomed him with a smile (and a bottle of Crown Royal). Lueshen was wary, but the teammate told him, “At first I didn’t know how to be around you. But you’re cool, you’re funny and you’re fun.” Then he said that if Lueshen ever had a problem, “these guys” – a group of enormous football players – would take care of it.

Lueshen’s career was checkered. A torn hamstring cost him a starting spot. In 2006, back surgery ended his playing days forever. Losing football was tough. He withdrew from teammates. Lueshen poured his energy into a Ph.D. program for biomedical engineering. Helping people, he realized, was his calling. Three months before earning his doctorate, Michael Sam came out. As a consensus All-American, this was Big News. Lueshen was one of thousands to post congratulations on Facebook. He added a few lines about his own experiences at Nebraska. Suddenly, the media wanted to hear his story too. Hours after appearing on a Lincoln sports radio talk show, Lueshen told his Ph.D. supervisor that he would postpone graduation by a year. “All this is happening for a reason,” Lueshen felt. “I have to honor this.” He gave speeches and interviews. He advised athletic departments on diversity and inclusion. He served as grand marshal of Nebraska Pride. Along the way, he was mentored by LGBT sports pioneers like Pat Griffin and Helen Carroll. Then, at a Nike LGBT Sports Summit in Portland, he met Nevin Caple. The former football player and the LGBT sports diversity consultant clicked professionally. Two years ago, Caple called Lueshen. Would he be interested in working on a program to help create safe sports environments for everyone, regardless of sexuality or gender expression? The founders stayed true to their

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athletic roots, forming a “3-Peat Model.” The three “P”s were Policy (helping ensure that all members of an athletic community are valued and respected); Programming (LGBT inclusion training for athletic administrators, coaches and recreational sports leaders), and Public Awareness (about LGBT experiences). LGBT SportSafe launched last year. The America East conference was the first organization to jump on board. A major event was a presentation at the National Association of Collegiate Directors of Athletics in Dallas. Dozens of universities followed up, asking how they could be part of LGBT SportSafe. One way is by earning a medallion from the organization. LGBT SportSafe awards gold, silver and bronze designations, depending on how well an athletic department performs based on inclusion criteria. It’s a great way to tap into the competitive juices of ADs and coaches. No one knows competition better than Eric Lueshen. After all, he beat Michael Sam out of the closet by a full decade. (For more information, click on www. LGBTSportSafe.com) e Dan Woog is a journalist, educator, soccer coach and gay activist. His latest book is “We Kick Balls: True Stories from the Youth Soccer Wars.” He can be reached care of this publication or at OutField@qsyndicate.com.

Montrose Star e | Wednesday July 26, 2017 | PAGE 15

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TLC:

PAGE 16 | Montrose Star e | Wednesday July 26, 2017 with their self-titled fifth studio album TLC and opening up to their gay fans. And no, they didn’t just stick to the rivers and lakes they’re used to. During our nostalgic and, ahem, educational interview, TLC talked about how “No Scrubs” gets the queers “crunk”... and, you know, just casually reminisced on that time they got schooled on what it means to be a top and a bottom. Have you ever been to a gay club when “No Scrubs” comes on? Because you’ve never seen anything gayer or more inspiring. T-Boz and Chilli: (Laughs)

So, I take it you’re aware of your LGBT following? T-Boz: Oh, very aware. Very, very, very! The thing I love about our fans is, we’ve grown with them and they’ve grown with us. Some of them have kids now, so we have generations there. But, yes, we are very, very, very aware of the community, honey, ’cause all of our friends let us know. I love it!

FROM TOP

T-Boz and Chilli talk Gay Sex 101, being lesbian-chased and the LGBT legacy of ‘Waterfalls’ e By

Chilli: You know what’s funny? One of my friends works for VH1 and, oh my gosh, it’s hilarious. He’s gay and I’m the only girl who could be his play girlfriend he tells me, and he always sends me – and, I mean, he just sent one the other day – video of when “No Scrubs” comes on, and he’s like, “Chilli, I love you!” And he’s singing and showing me everybody singing. It is crunk!

Chris Azzopardi

LC never had to go chasing their gay fans – we came to them. And not just because “Waterfalls,” one of pop history’s most prominent HIV/AIDSawareness anthems, made a generation of LGBT people more sexually responsible, or because “Unpretty” affirmed you’re fine just the way you are. Ever since their debut dropped in 1992, the selfproclaimed “prissy tomboys” – nobody could wear condoms quite like Lisa “Left Eye” Lopes, Tionne “T-Boz” Watkins and Rozonda “Chilli” Thomas – led us all to embrace our own crazy, sexy, cool selves, gender norms be damned. But when Lopes, the trio’s swagging rapper, was killed in a car accident in 2002, T-Boz, 47, and Chilli, 46, took a long break from the recording studio to tour and pursue solo ventures. Now, 15 years post TLC3D, and thanks to a Kickstarter that funded the project, one of pop music’s flyest girl groups is taking their final bow +1 Google+ Find us on P F Facebook.com & P

Montrose Star e | Wednesday July 26, 2017 | PAGE 17

When did you first know you had a gay following? T-Boz: I did a party around (1994’s) CrazySexyCool and that was one of the best parties I hosted. I learned so much! Like, I didn’t know there were certain terms and stuff! They hooked me up with a lot more knowledge of stuff that went on than I really realized. I was like, “Ohh?!” It was just such a free, fun party. No judging. No anything. It was just one of the best environments I had ever been in, so I thought that was cool. So, probably around ’95-ish when I was really aware. What did you learn about the gay community that night? T-Boz: I learned what a top was, a bottom was. And versatile! (Laughs) I learned all of those terms! I was like, “Oh my god – this is so cool.” Chilli: Oh, Lord. Oh, Jesus. I wasn’t at that party! Sounds like you really missed out, Chilli. When was your gay awakening then? Ha! Chilli: (Laughs) I don’t know why I feel weird saying it now, ’cause you already said it! The bottom part. And you know… the top. I keep laughing!

Ha! Moving on to the new album: Which songs on it do you hope become gay club anthems? Chilli: It’s funny that you kind of break it down like that. But really and truly, for me personally, I just kind of feel like when we make our songs, we make them for everybody. I mean, everybody. So, you never know who’s gonna like what the most. I guess we’ll find out in time by what song really speaks to whomever and what’s the most popular one that’s being played at certain clubs. It’s kind of harder to gauge that one for me. T-Boz: I think “Perfect Girls.” The three I’ve heard mostly from my gay friends have been “Perfect Girls,” “Scandalous” and “Start a Fire.” Those are the top three. But I think “Perfect Girls” has a message that’s been universal no matter what sex you are – anyone who’s ever felt like they don’t love themselves from the inside out or have a goal they’re trying to reach but can’t ’cause they’re looking at people who they think are perfect. But there’s no such thing!

cool because we let it be known that there was a new drug from this company and it could help HIV/AIDS patients. They would come up to us; they felt like we were their voice. It was such an epidemic at the time, so they just felt like we were speaking for them. Chilli: It was basically about bringing more awareness (to it) because nobody really talked about it. It was kind of just hush-hush, even though these things were happening. It was like, “People are getting sick, they’re dying and nobody is really talking about it much.” T-Boz: People even said they thought about committing suicide and it helped save their lives. We started really seeing the seriousness of it, especially when we did charity events. We got a lot of calls for charity events for AIDS benefits, so it started making a really big difference. We basically got one of our wishes through that song, because we always wanted to help change and save lives.

What do you remember of the LGBT community’s response to “Waterfalls” when it first came out? T-Boz: We did a campaign for Pfizer, and there was a new cocktail out. We did seminars and it was really

Gay icon Bette Midler covered “Waterfalls” a few years ago – what was it like hearing her rendition? Chilli: That was an honor. It was an honor because she is legend, oh my god. That’s legendary right there! And not only that, but she contributed to our Kickstarter campaign. We were shocked. We couldn’t believe, like, ‘Bette Midler?!’

TO BOTTOM

During RuPaul’s Drag Race, Tatianna showed some TLC love when she did T-Boz drag. Did you tune in for that? T-Boz: (Laughs) I absolutely saw it and I loved it! I put it on my page; I reposted it. Chili: I don’t think anybody ever has (dressed up as me). Maybe I’m boring! I’m no fun, I guess. (Laughs) I just got the long, wavy hair. And I don’t hardly wear any wake up, so I don’t think I’d be a fun person to dress up as, is what I’m thinking. T-Boz: Yeah, I’ve seen T-Boz drag more than once, actually. It’s cool to see different renditions of myself. It makes you go, “Oh, that’s how you see me!” (Laughs) What do you remember from RuPaul’s visit to the set of the “No Scrubs” video in 1999? Chilli: I remember the first time I saw him – and at first I didn’t know even it was him because he wasn’t in drag! He was just walking around with no makeup and it was so funny. But then, when he smiled, it was like, “Oh, that is RuPaul.” You know that smile anywhere. And he was so sweet too. And really tall! (Laughs) T-Boz: He just came to show love. He was just there to support us, which I thought was awesome. That was it. He was just showing love. At the start of your career, you rocked a tomboy look. How intentional was your subversion of gender? And what did that do for your lesbian following? Chilli: This is how we looked at it: We call ourselves “prissy tomboys” ’cause we’re super girly, but we’re tomboys at the same time, so we felt like we represented all the girls who did not feel comfortable wearing a tight dress. We represented that crew. Then lettin’ everybody know you don’t have to wear a tight dress to be sexy – it’s the attitude. So, even though we had baggy clothes and all that kind of stuff, we were still feminine, So, again, whoever gravitated toward that and felt comfortable, we helped them feel more comfortable. That’s how it was, because we didn’t wanna wear tight dresses! We still don’t really like dressing like that. Did your style give the ladies the wrong idea – that you were lesbian? What do you remember of those rumors? T-Boz: I got most of it! They was always after me, child! (Laughs) All the lipstick lesbians – everybody! Child, I got everything. But that doesn’t bother us. Ultimately, no matter what your sexual orientation, we were standing up for anybody that felt like they didn’t fit in. We were letting them know you can still be sexy in boy clothes, you can rock this, you don’t have to be naked or half-dressed. You can be yourself and be just as fly. 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). +1 Google+ Find us on P F Facebook.com & P

PAGE 18 | Montrose Star e | Wednesday July 26, 2017

Cooking With Paula Dream

Tasty fish and fritters e by

paula dream (aka kale haygood)

2 7 10 Montrose Blvd. Houston, T X 7 7 006

713.526.0202 Order Online www.pepperonis.net

owdy, STAR readers! I don’t know about you, but Paula is sweating her support hose off in this steamy July heat. While you are reading this, Paula will be back in West Hollywood doing my eighth screen test at The Price Is Right. Oh my! The boys are so friendly out there. But on to cooking. Paula has been in the fish mood lately. So, here are a couple of my favorite recipes that you will find easy to prepare, plus a substitute recipe for the traditional hushpuppies usually served with fish. Try it! You will like it. And thanks again for supporting our advertisers, who help make this publication possible and pay my salary.

in remaining one tablespoon oil over medium heat until fragrant, about 30 seconds or so. Add corn, tomatoes and sour cream, simmering 10 minutes. Stir in cilantro. Serve fish with corn mixture and lemon wedges. Yum yum!

CURRIED TILAPIA WITH CILANTRO SAUCE.

In a bowl, mix first six ingredients with 1/4 cup sour cream; season with salt and pepper. In large saucepan, heat oil to 360 degrees. Fry batter by the tablespoon about five minutes or until golden brown, turning once. In a processor, pulse remaining 1 cup sour cream and mint. Serve with a mint if you would like. bonus tip: Everyone looks at the stains on their wood or plastic cutting boards. They look clean, but are actually filthy. Here is Paula’s cure: Wash your board. Dry. Take the juice from 1/2 lemon and rub it in all over the board. Concentrate on the stains. Now go to the bathroom and retrieve four denture tablets. Go back to the kitchen and crush the denture tablets on to the cutting board and rub in to the surface. Let sit for about 30 minutes. Wash with warm soapy water.

2 teaspoons curry powder 2 teaspoons flour 4 tilapia fillets (6 oz. ea.) 1/4 cup olive oil 2 cups (packed) fresh cilantro 2/3 cup salsa verde 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice 2 teaspoons minced fresh ginger 2 teaspoons honey

Salt and pepper, to taste In a bowl, mix curry and flour. Season fish with salt and pepper; coat in flour. Heat in skillet, over medium-high, cooking fish until opaque in center, approximately three minutes per side. Puree remaining ingredients for sauce. CAJUN CATFISH WITH A CORN SAUTE.

4 6-ounce catfish filets 2 tablespoons olive oil 1 tablespoons Cajun seasoning Salt and pepper, to taste 3 cloves garlic, chopped 1 14-ounce bag frozen corn thawed 1 10-ounce can diced tomatoes with chilies, drained 2 tablespoons sour cream 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped 1 lemon, quartered

On a foil-lined baking sheet, brush fish with one tablespoon oil. Season with salt and pepper; sprinkle with Cajun seasoning. Broil until flaky, about five minutes. In large skillet, cook garlic +1 Google+ F Facebook.com & P Find us on P

CARROT FRITTERS.

1 cup chopped red onion 1/2 cup self-rising flour 1/2 cup grated carrots 1 egg 3 jarred cherry peppers, drained and chopped 2 tablespoons cornmeal Salt and pepper, to taste 1 and 1/4 cup sour cream 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint 4 cups vegetable oil

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.

Foodie Diaries

Snooze Breakfast Tacos

Breakfast worth waking up for

e By

jiM ayres

ave you ever gotten up in the morning and decided, “Hey, I’ll go out for breakfast today”? Yeah, I haven’t either. Brunch, yes. Many times! But a regular weekday breakfast? Unless I’m on the road and hit a drive-through, I’ve got all the basics at home. Snooze, an A.M. Eatery (that’s the full, official name) may just change my mind about that. A Colorado-based chain, Snooze has been delighting Austin for a while now, and made its move into Houston last year on Montrose Boulevard. It’s been popular ever since, as I was surprised to find on a recent Wednesday morning. Snooze was filled with a diverse mix of people—from nearby offices celebrating birthdays, college students, and those embracing the “work from home” culture who can take a little time away for an amazing breakfast. And amazing these breakfasts are. Everything on Snooze’s wide-ranging menu is over the top in flavor and presentation. I saw decadent French toast with salted caramel and fresh strawberries. I saw pancakes with blueberries and almond streusel. Still more pancakes with blackberries, mascarpone and key lime filling. There’s a whole section of the menu devoted to Hollandaise sauce. From a classis Eggs Benedict to variants with quinoa cakes or barbacoa, to lox style salmon over rye, to pulled pork Benedict over salsa verde and tortillas, each has its own style of Hollandaise. Several breakfast sandwiches (and a smattering of non-breakfast ones) are also on the list. If you want it, you can even get a good old plate of bacon and eggs. And cocktails. Yes, Snooze has a full bar with Mimosas, Bloody Marys, a White Peach Basil Bellini, and the

intriguingly named Boss Hog, Mountain Mule, and Bacon and Eggs pick-me-ups among others. It should be noted that on this weekday morning, no one was indulging in these, but I imagine they’re a hit on weekends! Since my visit to Snooze was a solo affair, I could only order one thing for myself. After perusing the menu and drooling over everything, I decided on Juan’s Breakfast Tacos. Three full size corn or flour (but really, who orders corn?) tortillas are loaded with scrambled eggs, hash browns, jack cheese, green chile hollandaise and pico de gallo. I added chorizo just for kicks. Good heavens, these tacos were good! Every bite was juicy and oozy and exploding with all the flavors. I could only finish two and happily brought the third one home to enjoy later. They’re a fantastic, decadent way to start your day. I loved the bright 1960s retro look inside Snooze. I really liked the perky, happy servers that made the experience even more special. I even liked the prices that were higher than Denny’s but less than I’d expect to pay for such welldone food. I didn’t like the parking. There’s only a small lot in front (and Snooze only gets half of it), and street parking was completely occupied. I waited a good 10 minutes for a spot, but that wait was totally worth it! e

3217 Montrose Boulevard Houston, Texas 77006

(713) 574-6655

W W W. S N O O Z E E AT E R Y. C O M +1 Google+ Find us on P F Facebook.com & P

Montrose Star e | Wednesday July 26, 2017 | PAGE 19

PAGE 20 | Montrose Star e | Wednesday July 26, 2017 Ġ Wed › July 26

10pm Ġ Fri › July 28

Q 23rd Street Station – Galveston: Tonya Nixx hosts Friday Fantasy Male Dancer Contest, 9pm (every 2nd & 4th Friday) | Visit FB/23rdStreetStation Q Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion presents Nickelback with Daughtry and Shaman’s Harvest, 6:15pm | Visit woodlandscenter.org Q Miller Outdoor Theatre presents the Houston Shakespeare Festival’s comedy Twelfth Night, 8:15pm | Visit milleroutdoortheatre.com Q Museum of Fine Arts, Houston: Q Fest presents The Fabulous Allan Carr, 7pm | Visit q-fest.com Q Rice Media Center: Q Fest presents In A Glass Cage, 9pm | Visit q-fest.com Q Rich’s Houston presents Stripper Electric Circus with special guest porn stars Jimmy Durant and Will Wikle, 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 Smart Financial Centre at Sugar Land presents Hank Williams, Jr., with special guest Lewis Brice, 8pm | Visit smartfinancialcentre.com

Courtesy of Tom of Finland Foundation

Q 23rd Street Station – Galveston: Destiny Lee Jacobs 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 Ensemble Theatre presents Simply Simone (Thru 7/30) Visit ensemblehouston.org for dates/times PLEASE NOTE EVENT TIMES AND DATES SUBJETC TO CHANGE WITHOUT NOTICE. Q Houston Museum of Natural Science: Mapping Texas: From Frontier to the Lone Star State, Daily 9am - 5pm (Thru 10/8) Q Matchbox 3: the Catastrophic Theatre presents Tamarie’s Ġ Sat › July 29 Ġ Sat › August 5 Merry Evening of Mistakes and Regrets, 8pm (Thru 8/12) Visit Q 23rd Street Station – Galveston: Kiki Dion Van Wales hosts a special show, 10:30pm | Visit FB/23rdStreetStation Q 23rd Street Station – Galveston: Kiki Dion Van Wales hosts matchouston.org Q Aurora Picture Show: Q Fest presents Shorts Program: Come As You Are, 3:30pm | Visit q-fest.com a special show, 10:30pm | Visit FB/23rdStreetStation Q Matchbox 4: Main Street Theater presents The Wizard of Oz (Thru Q Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion presents REO Speedwagon & STYX with Don Felder, 7pm | Visit woodlandscenter.org Q Matchbox 2: ReFine Arts Productions presents 7/30) Visit matchouston.org for all dates/times Q Miller Outdoor Theatre presents the Houston Shakespeare Festival’s comedy Twelfth Night, 8:15pm | Visit Reconstructing Alice, 7:00pm (Thru 8/13) | Visit Q Moody Gardens–Galveston presents Da Vinci: The Exhibition milleroutdoortheatre.com matchouston.org (Thru 1/8) Visit moodygardeans.com Q Museum of Fine Arts, Houston: Q Fest presents Desert Hearts, 7pm | Visit q-fest.com Q Miller Outdoor Theatre presents the Houston Shakespeare Q Museum of Fine Arts presents Paint the Revolution: Mexican Q Rice Media Center: Q Fest presents Bones of Contention, 5:15pm | Both Ways, 9:45pm | Visit q-fest.com Festival’s comedy Twelfth Night, 8:15pm | Visit Modernism, 1910-1950 (Thru 10/1) Visit mfah.org Q Rich’s Houston hosts Resurrection Saturdays featuring DJ Joe Ross, DJ Melle Mel and DJ Johnny Vibe, 10pm | Visit milleroutdoortheatre.com Q Museum of Fine Arts, Houston presents Pipilotti Rist: Pixel Forest Q NRG Center, Hall E: Abilities EXPO, The event for the richsnightclub.com and Worry Will Vanish , 10am | Visit mfah.org for all dates/times Q The Ripcord: Q Fest presents Julio of Jackson Heights, 1:30pm | Visit q-fest.com disability community, 11am–5pm, Free Workshops! (Thru Q Music Box Theatre presents Feeling Groovy 3, 7:30pm (Thru 7/29) Q Rumors Beach Bar - Galveston hosts “Gossip Girls” Saturday with DJ Joe Rios+Dancing; Drag Shows at 11pm & 12:30am | 8/6) Visit abilities.com/houston Visit themusicboxtheater.com Q Rich’s Houston presents the audacious DJ Dave Audé, 10pm Visit rumorsbeachbar.com Q Obsidian Theater presents Saucy Jack and The Space Vixens Q Tony’s Corner Pocket Hottest Male Dancers Revue, 10pm | Visit richsnightclub.com (Thru 8/5) Visit obsidiantheaser.org Q Rich’s Houston hosts Resurrection Saturdays featuring Q The Ripcord hosts Geeks Who Drink (the leader in the Pub Trivia DJ Joe Ross, DJ Melle Mel and DJ Johnny Vibe, 10pm | Visit Q The Water Works at Buffalo Bayou Park’s Volunteer Workday, 8:30am | Visit buffalobayou.org Nerd Pack), 8:30pm richsnightclub.com Q Rumors Beach Bar - Galveston hosts Winesday Ġ Wed › a wine Ġ Sun › July 30 Idina Menzel Q Rumors Beach Bar - Galveston hosts “Gossip Girls” tasting and hors d’ouvres, 6pm | Visit rumorsbeachbar.com Saturday with DJ Joe Rios+Dancing; Drag Shows at 11pm & Q Smart Financial Centre at Sugar Land presents Idina Menzel, Q 23rd Street Station – Galveston: Dixie Monroe hosts Trailer Trash BINGO, 7pm – 12:30am | Visit rumorsbeachbar.com PLUS – Hospitality LATE Nite specials, 11pm 2017 World Tour, 8pm | Visit smartfinancialcentre.com Q Asia Society Texas Center: Q Fest presents Small Talk, 3pm | Visit q-fest.com Q Tony’s Corner Pocket features the Hottest Male Dancers Q Stages Repertory Theatre presents Always…Patsy Cline Q Miller Outdoor Theatre presents the Houston Shakespeare Festival’s comedy Revue, 10pm (Thru 8/20) | Visit stagestheatre.com Twelfth Night, 8:15pm | Visit milleroutdoortheatre.com Q Stages Repertory Theatre presents Woody Sez, The Life and Ġ Sun › August 6 Q Museum of Fine Arts, Houston: Q Fest presents Maurice, 5pm | Visit q-fest.com Music of Woody Guthrie, (Thru 9/3) | Visit stagestheatre.com Q Rice Media Center: Q Fest presents Tom of Finland, 8pm | Visit q-fest.com Q MATCH Gallery: The Leather Apron Foundation presents Ġ Thu › July 27 Q Rich’s Houston presents Fan-Tastic Sundays feat. DJ Joe Ross & DJ Melle, Doors at Strut For Strength, 1pm and 4pm. This foundation event Q Matchbox 3: Q Fest presents the Opening Night & Houston 5pm - No Cover! | Visit richsnightclub.com proceeds to benefit adolescents and young adults diagnosed Premiere Film Hello Again, 7:30pm | Visit q-fest.com Q The Ripcord hosts Satisfaction Sunday with DJ Cori, 9pm | Visit FB/ with cancer | Visit matchouston.org Q Rumors Beach Bar - Galveston hosts Thirsty Thursday ripcordhouston Q Matchbox 2: ReFine Arts Productions presents all-day drink specials + Karaoke and Trivia, 8pm | Visit Q Rumors Beach Bar - Galveston celebrates Sunday Funday all day; Drag Bingo, Reconstructing Alice, 7:00pm (Thru 8/13) | Visit rumorsbeachbar.com 4pm + Karaoke & Lip Sync Battles, 8pm | Visit rumorsbeachbar.com matchouston.org Q Tony’s Corner Pocket features the Hottest Male Dancers Revue, 10pm Q Tony’s Corner Pocket features the Hot Male Dancers Revue, Q NRG Center, Hall E: Abilities EXPO, The event for the Tom of Finland

Ġ Thu › August 3

Q Matchbox 4: MATCH presents Mary Black, The Last Call Tour, 7:30pm | Visit matchouston.org Q Rich’s Houston hosts | Visit richsnightclub.com Q Rumors Beach Bar - Galveston hosts Thirsty Ġ Thu › all-day drink specials + Karaoke and Trivia, 8pm | Visit rumorsbeachbar.com Ġ Fri › August 4

Q Matchbox 2: ReFine Arts Productions presents

Ġ Tue › August 1

Q Rice Media Center: Q Fest presents Thirsty, 7:30pm | Visit q-fest.com Q Rich’s Houston hosts Dessie’s Drag Race, Season 10 | Visit richsnightclub.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

Q 23rd Street Station – Galveston: Destiny Lee Jacobs hosts Karaoke, 9:30pm | Visit FB/23rdStreetStation Q Miller Outdoor Theatre presents the Houston Shakespeare Festival’s comedy Richard III, 8:15pm | 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 Ġ Wed › a wine tasting and hors d’ouvres, 6pm | Visit rumorsbeachbar.com

Q Tony’s Corner Pocket features the Hottest Male Dancers Revue, 10pm Ġ Mon › July 31

Ġ Wed › August 2

Q Miller Outdoor Theatre presents the Houston Shakespeare Festival’s comedy Twelfth Night, 8:15pm | Visit Tom of Finland 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

Reconstructing Alice, 7:00pm (Thru 8/13) | Visit matchouston.org Q NRG Center, Hall E: Abilities EXPO, The event for the disability community, 11am–5pm, Free Workshops! (Thru 8/6) Visit abilities.com/houston Q Rich’s Houston presents Stripper Electric Circus Official Launch Party with special guest Trenton Ducati and International superstar, DJ Dan Slater, 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

disability community, 11am–4pm, Free Workshops! | Visit abilities.com/houston Q Rich’s Houston hosts an Art Show & Sale, to benefit the Montrose Center’s Campaign for Affordable LGBT-Affirming Senior Housing, 3-7pm | Visit richsnightclub.com 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 7

Q Rich’s Houston hosts Dessie’s Drag Race, Season 10 | Visit richsnightclub.com Q Rumors Beach Bar - Galveston hosts Martini Monday + Karaoke & Trivia, 8pm | Visit rumorsbeachbar.com Ġ Tue › August 8

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 Ryder-Swallow & Ashlee Houston, 8:30pm Ġ Wed › August 9

Q The Ripcord hosts Geeks Who Drink (the leader in the Pub Trivia Nerd Pack), 8:30pm Q Rumors Beach Bar - Galveston hosts Winesday Ġ Wed › a wine tasting and hors d’ouvres, 6pm | Visit rumorsbeachbar. com

PLEASE NOTE: EVENTS, DATES AND TIMES SUBJECT TO CHANGE WITHOUT NOTICE. +1 Google+ F Facebook.com & P Find us on P

» CROSSWORD QUEERIES . . . . . . . . . . . 26

» A COUPLE OF GUYS

6 GAY ICONS P F FACEBOOK.COM/MONTROSESTAR

...............

» GUIDE TO THE CLUBS

............

A Couple of Guys THE PARTY STARTS HERE!

SERVING HOUSTON, THE BAY AREA & GALVESTON

Section

WEDNESDAY JULY 26, 2017 e VOL. VIII, 9

Keep Galveston Beautiful:

Please don’t trash the Playland of the South e By

Forest riggs

Across the Causeway

efore the Great Storm of 1900, Galveston Island was the destination for many Americans looking to get away and experience the “tropical paradise” in the Gulf of Mexico. Wealthy New Englanders summered on the sandy island and enjoyed an escape from the big city’s “hustle and bustle” fast pace and overcrowded conditions. Some of the wealthier families owned huge mansions along Broadway and along the “Boulevard” as the street along the surf was called. They would return each summer to enjoy “the season.” There were huge hotels where High Tea was served daily at 4 p.m. There were amusement parks, gardens, a zoo and of course music and entertainment venues. The sparkling “Jewel in the Gulf” drew folks from all over and just about every station in life, from the well-heeled to the common family just looking for a little vacation. Train traffic onto and off the island was at its peak and “catching the 3 p.m. to Boston” was not an uncommon phrase. Sailing and steamships brought New Yorkers and others to the island twice a week and the majestic vessels were a common site along the piers. After the devastating storm in September of 1900, it took a few years to rebuild the famous island and complete the Seawall as well as the massive undertaking of “raising” of the city. Resilient Galvestonians did it, and with gusto! By the early teens, the recovered island was again a highly desired destination for escape, pleasure and culture. Though many things have changed over the last 120-plus years, some things have remained the same. Powerful hurricanes and economic downturns combined with several types of competition

plagued the island off and on for decades, but like the legendary Phoenix, the island survived and eventually thrived. In the 1980s the island began to experience a revival or rejuvenation that would bring the little bar island back to the forefront as a tourist destination and sparkling jewel, just “south of Texas.” Today Galveston, like the island of yesteryear, is filled with crowds of tourist coming and going, attractions (both historical and modern), cultural events, fine dining, quaint shopping areas filled with galleries and boutiques and a large and vibrant LGBTQ community. Over the past 20 years or so, there has been much discussion and debate about the coming of legalized gambling, casinos, beach side hotels, high-rise development and more. This, however, remains to be seen and only time will tell. Galvestonians love and welcome visitors. The locals take great pride in their home and sharing it with visitors. For example, the recent 4th of July weekend saw more than 650,000 visitors come to

the island. Over 175,000 vehicles crossed the causeway, carrying loads of excited families and friends wanting to celebrate the holiday on the island. Thousands lining the streets and enjoying the festivities viewed the parade along the Seawall. The fireworks exploding in the night sky were awe-inspiring and cast a beautiful reflection on the warm, Gulf waters. The Historic Pleasure Pier never looked prettier sitting above the waves and under the colored night sky. But here is the bad part: litter! That’s right; remember “Give a hoot, don’t pollute” and all the anti-litter slogans and ad campaigns we grew up hearing and seeing on the television? What became of the Lady Bird Johnson’s “Keep America Beautiful” mindset? The Galveston Island Park Board, which oversees the beaches, seawall and parks, picked up over 49,000 pounds of litter and trash after the holiday weekend. They started at 3 a.m. and worked around the clock until the island was clean. Celebrants, visitors and locals with complete disregard for the island had left trash and litter at every gathering—papers, cans, food containers, plastic bags, soiled diapers, bones, broken lawn chairs and bent canopies, coolers, cigarette butts, firework debris and just about everything imaginable (and other things, well, not imaginable). I watched as families parking along the Seawall, simply dumped their butt-filled ashtrays onto the pavement, tossed trash bags, wrappers and food containers out the window, like the Island was some huge garbage dump. Sitting on East Beach (the “gay beach” as we locals call it), I was amazed and appalled to watch little groups of people, some gathered under bright umbrellas, others just laying on a towel, do nothing as their plastic grocery bags blew away and tumbled along the beach. Twist off caps were hurled into the wind as if some S 22

PAGE 22 | Montrose Star e | Wednesday July 26, 2017 S 21 sporting event. Being a “litter nut” it made me sick to see these litterbugs with no regard for the Island that was freely offering them a good time. Disgusting behavior! I wondered how the inside of some of their homes must appear as I watched them carelessly trash the Island. The irritating thing is that trash bins and receptacles are easily within walking distance all along the Seawall and the beaches. Is this laziness, stupidity and ignorance, or just plain nasty? It should not happen, here or anywhere. All people need to respect the land, trite as

it may sound, and do their part to pick up cans and trash when they encounter it along the walkways, beaches and streets. Keep your trash with you, take it home or put it in a bin. It does not belong on the ground in Galveston! Keeping American clean is the responsibility of every person and we can start right here on Galveston Island. Litter is nasty and 49,000 pounds of it is absolutely unacceptable. Do your part when you can and help keep Galveston sparkling. 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.

Keeping American clean is the responsibility of every person and we can start right here on Galveston Island.

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Montrose Star e | Wednesday July 26, 2017 | PAGE 23

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PAGE 24 | Montrose Star e | Wednesday July 26, 2017

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Montrose Star e | Wednesday July 26, 2017 | PAGE 25

HouPaul: All things RuPaul in Houston!

The many beautiful shades of Violet e By

Mark karieL

iolet Chachki first graced South Beach with her presence on Saturday, May 9, 2015, a mere three weeks before she was announced as the Season 7 winner on the Grand Finale episode. Violet then made her return visit to the South Beach stage on Saturday, July 16, 2016. On Saturday, August 5, 2017, Violet returns for her third appearance on the South Beach stage. Violet Chachki was one of 14 contestants vying for the title of America’s Next Drag Superstar on RuPaul’s Drag Race, Season 7. Violet is the stage name of Paul Jason Dardo. Violet is much more than simply one of the beautiful colors of the rainbow. From Atlanta, Georgia, Violet is young (the low end of 20-something) and apparently has the smallest waist in RuPaul’s Drag Race history (the low end of 20-something). With a large personality to offset her youth and tiny waist, we watched Violet “inch” her way toward the top of Season 7. Violet was previously featured at Jungle Atlanta, where she was a regular member of the club’s popular The Other Show every Friday night. I’m not sure how often Violet is actually in Atlanta these days, if

at all, due to the vast amount of traveling as a result of not only being on RPDR but winning the title! Violet Chachki 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 7 winner of RuPaul’s Drag Race! For more information, visit www. sobehouston.com, or call 713-5210107. South Beach is located at 810 Pacific St. Houston, TX 77006. Here are some interesting facts about Violet:

• Violet is amongst only a handful of queens from all seasons of the show who never was in the bottom two and therefore was never required to “lip-sync for your life”. • During Snatch Game, always the most highly anticipated episode each season, Violet was originally planning to impersonate Donatella Versace, until it was revealed that Miss Fame was also planning to be the same character. In the workroom, as Violet was trying to decide if she should stick to her original idea or go with something new, RuPaul complimented Violet on her Alyssa Edwards impression and suggested that she change. In the end, Violet impersonated Alyssa Edwards and was

highly praised for her delivery of the likeness and mannerisms of the highly popular Season 5 (and All Stars Season 2) queen. • During Season 7, Violet had three main challenge wins, in Episodes 1, 10 and 11. She is a true winner! • The name “Violet” refers to Jennifer Tilly’s character in the film Bound, while “Chachki” is a variant of the Yiddish word “tchotchke”, a small object that is decorative rather than functional. • During the Season 8 finale in May of 2016, Violet completely upstaged

everyone in attendance. If you were watching, you couldn’t help but gasp when Violet came out in an almost indescribable gown simply dripping in jewels. Amazing! • As the winner of Season 7, Violet received a cash prize of $100,000. That’s a huge chunk of change! • Dardo identifies as genderfluid and has no preferred pronoun. e a Ru-minder: Stay tuned for the next edition of the MONTROSE STAR for many more upcoming RuPaul’s Drag Race events.

Featured Artist

Kermit Eisenhut shares love and talent on canvas K

ermit Eisenhut is a pet lover who understands how much we all cherish our fourlegged friends. Many of his clients have a pet they want to remember forever, and he makes that happen with incredible accuracy and likeness in hand-painted portraits using acrylic on canvas. One such piece is the featured selection of the Art Show and Sale on August 6, 2017 at Rich’s Nightclub (2401 San Jacinto in Houston). The show is co-sponsored by Rich’s and Montrose stAr and includes artists Eisenhut, Crystal Murley, Alfred Sanchez, Larry Crawford and Randall Jobe; all of whom will be donating 50 percent of all art sales to benefit the senior housing community under the Montrose Center’s umbrella. Doors open at 3 p.m. with a VIP reception and continues until 7 p.m. There is no door charge, but donations are welcomed. There will be a live auction at 6 p.m. In his pet portraits, Eisenhut attempts to capture the sparkle that exists between owner and pet. He wants the painting to reflect that genuine love and it is obvious to anyone viewing the detailed artwork. However, he does not

Morgan McMichaels

Kermit Eisenhut +1 Google+ Find us on P F Facebook.com & P

limit himself to pet portraits. He also paints traditional landscapes, whimsical pieces, flowers, murals and even cows, mustangs and oversized boots for the Houston Rodeo. Eisenhut also paints furniture and numerous fun public art pieces. His true passion lies in teaching art to people with terminal illnesses at area hospitals. He feels fortunate to be able to share his gift and he hopes it makes a difference by allowing others to see the importance of art in their lives. More information on this project may be found on his website under Art Therapy Painting Classes. Eisenhut is involved with the Houston community and participates in numerous charities including SNAP’s Collars for a Cause, Texas Children’s Hospital, Cow Parade, the American Heart Association, plus several AIDS and cancer organizations. He will be on hand to show and sell his art August 20 at Rich’s. Take time to meet this talented and giving individual, grace your home or office with his art and, as does he, lend a hand to someone in need. Learn more about Kermit Eisenhut at www.kermitart.com. e

PAGE 26 | Montrose Star e | Wednesday July 26, 2017

Crossword Queeries

6 GAY ICONS Across

I Sing

after your honey

21 Of

51 Jude of The Talented

24 Long-winded

5 Left to pirates

Mr. Ripley

25 Shakespearean forest

9 Rubyfruit Jungle

54 Bit of dental work

26 Ancient erection

writer Rita Mae

59 Stonewall veteran

28 One of the Marianas

14 Shakespeare’s Hathaway

drag queen

30 Like a cunning linguist

15 US citizen

62 On the ocean

31 Crotchety sort

16 The sound of music?

65 Type of leather from a reptile

32 Sir, in India

17 One who does it

66 Lindsay of Liz & Dick

33 Melrose

just for the money

67 Inedible Apple

34 Hollywood Squares choice

68 It’s a gas on Broadway

35 PBS science show

tigers and bears...”

69 Former congressman Barney

37 Motoristís offense, briefly

20 MLK associate and

70 Like young Abe Lincoln

38 Trust, with “on”

LGBT advocate

71 Venus de Milo’s lack

40 Stocking stuffer?

22 Verdi opera

Down

1 “I’m not in the

19 “

!”

and

23 Math degree 24 “Till There

You”

27 Work unit 29 Cowboy’s job in The Boys in the Band 32 Nine inches 36 Zami author 39 Star in Perseus 41 Leave open-mouthed 42 Sing part of “The Lonely Goatherd” 43 San Francisco activist 46 Daly of Judging Amy 47 Time of frigidity 48 Gay rodeo affirmative 50 One who goes

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44 “We’re here! We’re queer!” e.g.

1 Latin dance 2“

45 Spartacus director at time!”

49 Nice Nellie

(serial monogamy motto)

52 To no

3 Way to serve your meat

53 Sprinter Rudolph

4 Kid’s “tattoo,” for example

55 Trump ex

5 Eve counterpart on Lesbos

56 Try to put a restraint on

6 Nicky, in Funny Girl

57 One who handles your horse

7 The Golden Girls episode

58 Picks up

8 No-tell motel meeting

59 Jack portrayer Hayes

9 Start of a song from

60 Tug

South Pacific

61 Six Feet Under creator Ball

10 Totally screw

62 TV character from

11 Rene Auberjonois role

beyond Uranus

12 Come out on top

63 Rocky top

13 Sixty-nine and others (abbr.)

64 Singing syllable

18 Gardner of mystery

(in vain)

Montrose Star e | Wednesday July 26, 2017 | PAGE 27

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PAGE 28 | Montrose Star e | Wednesday July 26, 2017

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Deep Inside Hollywood

Netﬂix picks up trans activist Marsha P. Johnson’s story

e By

roMeo san vicente

Photo: KathClick.

The Death and Life of Marsha P. Johnson, the most recent project from acclaimed documentary filmmaker David France (Academy Awardnominated for How To Survive a Plague) will be getting a global platform with Netflix. The streaming service has picked up the film, where it will debut for audiences later in the year. Johnson was a trans woman and self-described “street queen” of New York’s gay population in the late 1960s. Alongside Sylvia Rivera, she co-founded STAR (Street Transvestites Action Revolutionaries), the first trans activist organization. Her death by apparent homicide in 1992 was ignored by law enforcement, and France’s film (for which the director worked alongside transgender consultants) follows investigators working to piece together information about the crime, as well as providing an overview of Johnson and Rivera’s groundbreaking work on behalf of gender-nonconforming people and trans people of color, who remain disproportionately targeted for violence during the Trump era. Death and Life recently screened at New York’s Tribeca Festival and Los Angeles’ Outfest, is a moving tribute to this important figure in LGBT history, and we can’t wait to add it to our streaming queue.

Harvey Fierstein

Harvey Fierstein revives Torch Song Tony and Oscar winner Mercedes Ruehl is heading back to the stage to co-star with Michael Urie in the revival of Harvey Fierstein’s Torch Song Trilogy, now to be known as simply Torch Song. Urie will step into the lead role that earned playwright and original star Fierstein a Tony Award, that of drag performer Arnold Beckoff, a man looking for love in 1970s New York City. Ruehl will play Arnold’s unsupportive mother, a part taken by Anne Bancroft in the 1988 film version. Moises Kaufman (The Laramie Project) will direct the

production, which will open at Second Stage, off-Broadway, this fall. This is great news for fans of Ruehl, whose relatively low profile after winning an Academy Award has always felt unjust. It’s also great timing for a revival of this play in particular, a chance for younger audiences to get a taste of vintage, postStonewall, pre-AIDS gay life, when the struggle for civil rights was kicking into high gear. It wasn’t all poppers and seeing Bette Midler at the Continental Baths, you know. J.J. Totah has Magic to do

We tend to fret over the wellbeing of child actors, but there’s a kid out there named J.J. Totah who we don’t worry about at all. He sings, he dances, he does stand-up, but mostly he plays lots of gay child roles (and/or exacting and competitive children who read as gay) and he does so hilariously and with a commanding presence. From Glee to Jessie to his breakout role in last year’s acclaimed indie comedy Other People, he makes audiences pay attention and say, “Wait, who is this kid?” He’s currently stealing a little moment in Spider-Man: Homecoming that we won’t spoil here, but if you’re ready to follow the 15-year-old’s growing career, he’ll soon be seen in the comedy Magic Camp. From director Mark Waters (Mean Girls), the movie follows a struggling magician (Adam Devine) trying to rehab his career with a magic camp for kids. Totah will be the kid with the take-charge personality and – we’re fairly confident in saying this – the sassy dialogue. You might not even know what he looks like yet, but you won’t miss him when the film hits theaters next spring. Dear White People, the sophomore year If only you were following Justin Simien on Instagram like we do, you’d know this already, but Netflix just announced some very good news for fans of Simien’s hilarious sitcom, Dear White People: a second season is on the way. All the stars from season one seem to be returning, with Logan Browning, Brandon P. Bell, Antoinette Robertson, DeRon Horton, John Patrick Amedori, Ashley Blaine Featherson and Marque Richardson all coming back for the 10-episode run. And if you haven’t started watching yet, what are you waiting for? It’s a wildly inventive show set among the black students at a predominantly white Ivy League university, one where racial friction sets the stage for a brilliant ensemble cast to explore love, sexual identity and the inevitable political realities of being a person of color in a white world. You’ve got a little time – the new episodes will air in 2018 – so fit it into your binge TV schedule. e Romeo San Vicente binges on Ina Garten cooking shows and then orders in. +1 Google+ Find us on P F Facebook.com & P

Montrose Star e | Wednesday July 26, 2017 | PAGE 29

PAGE 30 | Montrose Star e | Wednesday July 26, 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

SOLUTION FROM p26

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Montrose Star e | Wednesday July 26, 2017 | PAGE 31

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