JUNE 2023

48 ALLIES IN HOPE

AIDS Foundation Houston’s CEO Jeffrey Campbell discusses the nonprofit’s new name

87 A NEW HEIGHTS DELI

Urban Eats expands its menu with the popular new Salt & Sugar deli counter

52

COMMERCIAL SUCCESS

Drag artist Blackberri shines again in her second ad appearance

91 FOOD AND DRINK FOR A CAUSE

Local restaurants support local charities during Pride Month with menu specials

96 MID-CENTURY MASTER

The sublime drawings of gay Texas artist Gray Foy are featured at The Menil

56

PRIDE HOUSTON 365

The organization’s lineup of Pride events will culminate in Houston’s 45th annual parade on June 24

94 LGBTQ SOCIAL GROUPS

It’s easy to make community connections with these diverse interest groups

101 PRIDE IN THE MEDIA

Trey Serna has moved on from Houston’s CW39 evening newscast

58

PRIDE ’23

OutSmart celebrates the people who make this city’s vibrant LGBTQ community what it is:

60 Alton DuLaney

62 Zach Paugh

66 Kelon Campbell

70 Cameron Samuels

74 Grace Gibson

77 Jake Newsome

82 Kevin Anderson

130 WIGGING OUT

Chloe Crawford Ross shows off her high-fashion Pride colors

Kevin Anderson and Ian L. Haddock

For nearly sixty years we’ve provided essential care for the place we call home.

Saving lives in the middle of the night at a nationally renowned trauma center.

Providing equitable prevention and treatment at the first HIV care facility of its kind in the country.

You might not know our name. And that’s okay.

YOU’LL KNOW US BY THE WORK WE DO.

OVER

FIFTY

Lesbians Over Age Fifty have a good time! LOAF provides opportunities to socialize several times throughout the month. Activities range from:

•

JUNE 2023

NEWS & COMMENT

The right-wing media universe declares war on businesses that support diversity; Target stores move to protect employees (pg. 32)

30

38

104

Harris Health appoints Dr. Cody Pyke as its first nonbinary transgender trustee

Muffy Vanderbilt III competes in the streaming reality series Camp Wannakiki; Jordy unveils a new album ahead of his Houston appearance at Discovery Green this month

OUT & ABOUT

much more!

We try to have something for everyone. Come get involved and make new friends or reacquaint with old ones. Community is good for the soul.

THE PRIDE ISSUE

Introducing transgender drag artist Chloe C. Ross Photo by Alex Rosa for OutSmart, dress by Viva Vidalia, hair by Kitty Kontour, and makeup by Adriana LaRue

Publisher/Editor-in-Chief Greg Jeu

Creative Director Alex Rosa

Copy Editor Howard Maple

Contributing Writers

Olivia Flores Alvarez, Rich Arenschieldt, Bill Arning, Susan Bankston, Connor Behrens, Jenny Block, Sam Byrd, David Clarke, Dick Dace, Blase DiStefano, Andrew Edmonson, Ste7en Foster, Alys Garcia Carrera, Martin Giron, Lillian Hoang, DL Groover, Marene Gustin, Kim Hogstrom, James Hurst, Lisa Keen, Ryan M. Leach, Zachary McKenzie, David Odyssey, Joanna O’Leary, Lilly Roddy, Terri Schlichenmeyer, Gregg Shapiro, Janice Stensrude, Sheryl Taylor, Terrance Turner, Grace S. Yung

Photographers/Illustrators

Edgardo Aguilar, John-Paul Arreaga, Victor  Contreras, Dalton DeHart, Yvonne Feece, Frank Hernandez, Ashkan Roayaee, Alex Rosa

Operations Manager Michael Gurnas

Business Development Manager Aryeh Gruber

Sales and Marketing Dept.

Local Advertising Reps 713.520.7237

Tom Fricke, Aryeh Gruber, Chris Lew, Gene Mikulenka

National Advertising Representative Rivendell Media - 212.242.6863

OutSmart Media Company

Publishers of OutSmart Magazine 3406 Audubon Place • Houston, TX 77006 713.520.7237 • 713.522.3275 Fax

Subscriptions: $36/12 Issues, $58/24 Issues

E-mail: editor@outsmartmagazine.com

Website: OutSmartMagazine.com

O ut S mart is published monthly. Estimated readership in Houston and surrounding areas is 60,000. OutSmart Media Company is not responsible for claims and practices of advertisers. The opinions and views expressed herein do not necessarily reflect those of the staff or management of O ut S mart Inclusion in O ut S mart does not imply sexual orientation. ©2023 by OutSmart Media Company. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part without permission of the publisher is strictly prohibited. Unsolicited material is accepted. No manuscript returned without SASE.

TRAVEL WITH CONFIDENCE. TRAVEL WITH PRIDE.

Safety should be a top priority for every traveler, and overall, traveling as an LGBTQ+ traveler isn’t much different than everyone else. However, there are some unique situations only LGBTQ+ travelers might experience and sometimes special safety considerations need to be made. Experiences for LGBTQ+ travelers can vary globally, and AIG Travel recognizes the need for greater understanding and awareness regarding safety for LGBTQ+ travelers. That’s why we’ve developed a travel safety center with information and resources that will help LGBTQ+ travelers feel more comfortable as they plan their travel.

Learn more by visiting www.travelguard.com/lgbtq.

And don’t forget our Travel Guard® travel insurance plans can cover for medical emergencies and include 24/7 assistance services to help with flight and hotel rebookings, lost luggage, passport replacement and much more. To learn more about our product offerings, visit www.travelguard.com.

Travel, Inc., a member of American International Group, Inc., is a worldwide leader in travel insurance and global assistance. Travel Guard® is the marketing name for its portfolio of travel insurance and travel-related services, including medical and security services, marketed to both leisure and business travelers around the globe. Services are provided through a network of wholly owned service centers located in Asia, Europe and the Americas. For additional information, please visit our website at www.travelguard.com.

Happy Pride! O utSmart magazine is so grateful to celebrate another Pride Month with Houston’s LGBTQ community while we continue to promote our pride in the local community throughout the year.

This Pride Month, the joy and strength we find in community are even more important to affirm in these perilous times. Black trans women—two of whom rose up at the Stonewall Inn and sparked our modern civil-rights movement—remain at a heightened risk of anti-queer, anti-trans violence in Texas, the state that leads the nation in transgender murders. Texas lawmakers also passed legislation restricting drag performers, banning books that highlight queer experiences, and blocking health care for trans youth.

Though most of those bills died over the course of this year’s legislative session, some pro-LGBTQ bills never even made it to a

EDITOR’S NOTE

vote. Equality Texas has classified 141 Texas bills as dangerous for the LGBTQ community. And this month, we start to see more and more pushback against major companies recognizing Pride Month with their support. Through all of this, though, Houstonians will gather to celebrate the LGBTQ community throughout this Pride Month and beyond.

Sam Byrd brings us a Q&A with our cover star, Chloe C. Ross, a transgender drag artist who had always been in awe of our local drag legends and, after watching Season 3 of RuPaul’s Drag Race, gained the courage to begin performing herself.

We also recognize several hometown heroes, including artists Alton DuLaney and Zach Paugh, who describe what art means to them and to the larger community. Cameron Samuels, the teen activist who pushed against Katy ISD’s homophobic book bans and internet filters, received the Human Rights Cam-

paign’s Trailblazer Award for their advocacy. Grace Gibson, a local drag king, opens up to writer Zach McKenzie about finding freedom through drag as Gibson began her sobriety journey.

Kevin Anderson, founder of The T.R.U.T.H. Project, discusses the challenge of finding pride within himself as a Black gay man.

In our ongoing “Then and Now” series that marks O utSmart ’s 30th anniversary, we check in with our 2021 cover star Blackberri, who has been busy since making her national debut in a Super Bowl ad campaign. Then writer Connor Behrens chats with drag star Muffy Vanderbilt III about her appearance on the streaming reality series Camp Wannakiki, where drag performers compete for the title of “Queen of Camp.”

Also in this issue, we have a Pride Month guide that will help you find dining and drink specials across the city that benefit local and national LGBTQ

Support OutSmart’s LGBTQ journalism

For 30 years, OutSmart has brought award-winning coverage of LGBTQ news to Houston. Consider making a tax-deductible donation to the Outsmart Foundation for Community Media, a 501(c)(3) organization that supports OutSmart’s journalism. Your support helps us to continue telling the stories that impact our lives and celebrating the diversity of our community.

Thank you for your support!

organizations.

Drag star Chloe C. Ross’ words ring especially true this month: “Pride Month is needed more than ever—not just as a way to make corporate money in June, but as a lifestyle promoting love. Being trans is not my whole personality, but it is the part of me that causes so much vitriol in others. People are always scared of the unknown, and education is key. Being able to show your pride in who you are—year-round—is always my goal, and not just in June.”

Living authentically is not only a gift to yourself, but also a gift to the world. Your truth has the power to create positive change in the world.

Greg Jeu Publisher

“In Houston, one of my lifelines was OutSmart. Houston was not always a friendly place for LGBTQ people. But OutSmart provided that sense of community and common purpose— easing our isolation and chronicling our lives—that was critical for organizing to make positive change. OutSmart is a necessity in a city like Houston. I am confident that Houston is a more equal city for LGBTQ people because of its great journalism.”

Support OutSmart Foundation for Community Media

—Former Houston Mayor Annise Parker

Use your phone's camera to scan the QR code below Or visit:

You can also donate by texting OSF30 to 53-555. Use your phone’s camera to scan the QR code here

Or visit: givebutter.com/ outsmartfoundation

https://givebutter.com/outsmartfoundation

Happy Pride from the Staff of OutSmart.

STAGE

June 8–18

SWAN LAKE

The classic ballet makes its way to the Houston stage in a production choreographed by Stanton Welch. Swan Lake marks the end of Houston Ballet’s 2022–’23 season with an opulent performance showing the love between maiden-turnedswan Odette and Prince Siegfried, tested by the evil knight Rothbart and his own swan enchantress, Odile.

The Houston production is inspired by pre-Raphaelite painter John William Waterhouse’s painting The Lady of Shalott and features lavish sets and costumes

QUEER THINGS to DO

For a roundupweekly of LGBTQ visithappenings,OutSmartMagazine.com

by Kristian Fredrickson. Utilizing Tchaikovsky’s full score, this three-act production imbues its main characters with greater psychological complexity, giving the work “a 21st-century pace.”

The production is showing through June 18, with an Out at the Ballet performance on the night of June 16. O utSmart partners with Houston Ballet to provide 25 percent off orchestra-level tickets along with a complimentary drink and access to a private reception before the show and during intermission. tinyurl.com/br9eyh5p

STAGE

June 16–25

ALLEY ALL NEW FESTIVAL

Alley All New is made up of public and in-house programs that highlight new playwrights with a variety of programming year-round. The 7th annual festival features new plays in development with free readings and workshops that are open to the public. tinyurl.com/5a9wdyp2

STAGE

June 9–July 2

THE SERVANT OF TWO MASTERS

The Alley presents the world premiere of Rob Melrose’s adaptation of Carlo Goldoni’s commedia dell’arte classic. Melrose’s production follows the servant Truffaldino as he attempts to serve two masters at the same time. Attend on June 22 for the ActOUT pre-performance mixer complete with music, complimentary cocktails, and appetizers. tinyurl.com/mr2psvsm

COMMUNITY

June 23

PRIDE IN BUSINESS

Hosted by the Greater Houston LGBT Chamber of Commerce, this celebration spotlights the unique and vital role that LGBTQ and allied businesses play in the local economy. tinyurl.com/24r2fw6p

NIGHTLIFE

June 23

EDEN 2023

Come to RISE Rooftop for Eden, the Official Pride Girl+ Party hosted by Pride Houston. Everyone must be 18+ to attend, and tickets are available online in advance. tinyurl.com/zdaw5mtb

COMMUNITY

June 17

GAY LIBERATION FORUM

The Montrose Center hosts the Gay Liberation Extravaganza Forum, where attendees will learn how to “form a relationship with yourself” and gain the tools and resources to practice self-love. This event is produced by Self Luv Organics and is open to all. tinyurl.com/32vb4uux

COMMUNITY

June 25

PRIDE “RECOVERY” BRUNCH

Join the Montrose Center for their 5th annual Pride “Recovery” Brunch to celebrate LGBTQ Pride and those who paved the way for us today. Attendees should consider donating to the Montrose Center in support of this event by purchasing tickets online. tinyurl.com/2rkhw32s

COMMUNITY

June 22

ROCK THE RUNWAY

Come to Pride Houston’s annual fashion show featuring LGBTQ designers, models, DJs, and more, all at RISE Rooftop. All ages are welcome, and admission is free for the first 200 RSVPs who get their tickets online.

tinyurl.com/2tay5wjc

NIGHTLIFE

June 22

SPACE CITY PRIDE

Enjoy Space City Pride 2023 at Numbers nightclub with Marcia Marcia Marcia, Saline EsTitties, Jasmine Kennedie, Landon Cider, and Jax.

tinyurl.com/3s9pw4c2

NIGHTLIFE

June 24

HOUSTON PRIDE BAR CRAWL

Join PubCrawls for the “most colorful bar crawl in Houston.” Purchase tickets online to get free entry to venues, drink specials, food specials, and a costume contest during the event. tinyurl.com/yckcpx6a

COMMUNITY

June 4

ST. PAUL’ S PRIDE PICNIC

Visit St. Paul’s United Methodist Church in the Museum District for their annual indoor Pride Picnic. Enjoy boxed lunches, photo booths, and art activities that will create banners for the Pride parade. Sign up online in advance.

tinyurl.com/yvy8sk6y

COMMUNITY

June 11

PRIDE REVERSE DRAG BRUNCH

Enjoy Houston’s first “reverse drag” brunch, featuring performances by drag artists and celebrity impersonators—a mix of classy entertainment and raunchy comedy.” tinyurl.com/z56va22v

COMMUNITY

June 8

OUT IN TECH

Join Out in Tech to celebrate Pride at AvantGarden. Network with other tech professionals for résumé reviews, complimentary head shots, and drink specials. tinyurl.com/4aw3me2t

STAGE

June 29

THE GAY AGENDA

The Riot presents The Gay Agenda in a special Pride edition of this queer variety show. Enjoy steak night and $5 pints while watching some of the community’s funniest comedians. tinyurl.com/yexkmfks

NIGHTLIFE

June 24

PRIDE PARADE AFTER-PARTY

Jeff Harmon presents Rich’s at Rise Rooftop–The Official Houston Pride Afterparty 2023 with the iconic DJ Kitty Glitter from Australia and DJ Drew G from Houston. Dance the night away, long after the parade has ended.

tinyurl.com/2u4mcxwc

ART

June 13

PRIDE OPEN-MIC AND BOOK FAIR

Write About Now Poetry, which hosts poetry slams, open mics, and other literary events, sponsors this Pride open mic and book fair at Rudyard’s. Tickets available online.

tinyurl.com/3mxbz99z

COMMUNITY

June 10

LOVE AT FIRST GAME

Check out this LGBTQ singles mixer to kick off Pride Month. The mixer’s first newly matched couple to kiss will receive free drinks. tinyurl.com/2p8eb4k9

COMMUNITY

June 15

THERAPEUTIC THURSDAY

Therapeutic Thursday is in full swing with live poetry, R&B, a drag show, food and drinks, hookah, and more. Discounted advance tickets available online. tinyurl.com/yrb8s6py

NIGHTLIFE

June 17

PEARL PRIDE TEASER

Get a taste of Pride Month at Pearl Bar Houston with Alissa Butt and Sexy Lexie. More events to be announced soon.

tinyurl.com/sbpn637e

MELISSA TAYLOR MELISSA TAYLOR

SAVE the DATES QUEER THINGS to DO

COMMUNITY

JULY 15

PRIDE FORUM

Join the Houston LGBTQ+ Political Caucus for a discussion about upcoming City Council and mayoral races. The event includes a candidate meet-and-greet, a comptroller’s forum, and a mayoral forum. tinyurl.com/ycya6vsp

COMMUNITY

July 15

TRANS LEGAL AID CLINIC

Join Trans Legal Aid at the Montrose Center for assistance getting your ID and other documents updated. Volunteers will help you navigate this process for name and gender-marker changes. tinyurl.com/5xfdhxvr

STAGE

JULY 21–AUGUST 27

THE MURDER OF ROGER ACKROYD

Agatha Christie’s The Murder of Roger Ackroyd comes to the Alley Theatre as part of its Summer Chills series. Mark Shanahan adapted (and directs) this world premiere of the classic theatrical who-dun-it. tinyurl.com/3tchd9wr

STAGE

JULY 7–8

WHEN BOYS EXHALE

Enjoy this staged tribute to Waiting to Exhale with an LGBTQ twist—a hilarious and thought-provoking celebration of Black queer friendship. tinyurl.com/2yvzxx5p

Submit your events at calendar@outsmartmagazine.com

For 100 years, Miller Outdoor Theatre has delighted generations of audiences with the best in performing arts entertainment. And every performance free.

Plus, celebration events July 14-15 and Nov. 11 packed with fun for the whole family. Dress in themed attire. Enjoy costumed performers, live mural paintings, epic photo installations and more. All free!

PRIDE ALL MONTH LONG

Over a dozen local celebrations that you won’t want to miss.

June Pride is in full swing, with dozens of events across the city. OutSmart has you covered with details on 15 of the hottest Pride Month events in H-Town.

COMMUNITY

June 4

PRIDE MARKET

COMMUNITY

June 10

TALKING WITH PRIDE

The Woodlands Pride is excited to present its inaugural summit, Talking with Pride, featuring various speakers and panels discussing mental health, advocacy, and other topics impacting the LGBTQ community. tinyurl.com/sf7kk9wn

SPORTS

June 10–11

PRIDE WEEKEND WITH DYNAMO & DASH

Celebrate Pride at Pride Houston’s official Pride Market, hosted at Karbach Brewery. Enjoy DJs, food trucks, performances, giveaways, contests, plenty of beer, and a market of vendors and organizations showcasing their wares to the community. tinyurl.com/yck5wh4e

ART

June 8

PRIDE HAPPY HOUR AT THE MOODY

Celebrate Pride with the Houston Dynamos and Houston Dash throughout the weekend. tinyurl.com/4zm45vpw

COMMUNITY

June 17

PRIDE RIDE

COMMUNITY

June 17

COMMUNITY PRIDE CELEBRATION

Rice University’s Moody Center for the Arts hosts a Pride Happy Hour where you can enjoy music by Pride Chorus Houston, DJ Krazzy Kris, and see the new gallery exhibition Love and Wondervision. Free and open to the public. tinyurl.com/54vsxyrk

18 JUNE2023 | OutSmartMagazine.com

Houston’s Annual Pride Ride is back again with vendors, a drag show, raffles, and a celebration of all things Pride—including a ride down the original parade route through Montrose. tinyurl.com/ystxfdkk

Celebrate Pride Month and the Montrose Center’s 45th anniversary at a free Community Pride Celebration with live stage performances; an indoor and outdoor market with dozens of LGBTQ organizations, food trucks, and other vendors; an LGBTQ history exhibit; a Rainbow Run and Stiletto Sprint; and more.

tinyurl.com/2bb93wm4

NIGHTLIFE

June 17

PRIDE BAR CRAWL

Join Crawl With US for their sixth annual Pride Bar Crawl. A portion of the proceeds will be donated to local pride organizations and The Trevor Project. A ticket for the crawl includes two complimentary drinks or shots, waived cover at all venues, free cover for the drag show, and more.

tinyurl.com/5xv6cfre

SPORTS

June 20

PRIDE NIGHT AT THE HOUSTON ASTROS

STAGE

COMMUNITY

Cheer on our hometown team and celebrate Pride with the Astros as they face off against the New York Mets at Minute Maid Park. tinyurl.com/2s4957hv

NIGHTLIFE

June 22-25

EVERYTHING’S BIGGER PRIDE!

Benefiting the Montrose Center, Everything’s Bigger Pride! proves that everything really is bigger in Texas. With events spanning the entire weekend, an all-star international DJ lineup, and multiple venues, The DNVRMX Team is excited to present one of the largest productions of the summer. tinyurl.com/3xhvceun

23 RAINBOW ON THE GREEN

June

This year’s free, family-friendly Discovery Green celebration and concert features the LA-based pop singer/songwriter JORDY and Houston-based vocalist Z’maji. tinyurl.com/yk3w246k

COMMUNITY

June 23

BIG QUEER QUIZ

Join Houston Cider Co. for a charity quiz night benefiting Grace Place, an organization that serves youth of all sexualities and genders experiencing homelessness. Compete as a team for fabulous prizes and enter raffles for Astros tickets, gift cards, summer-themed swag, and more. tinyurl.com/3etx7hmn

NIGHTLIFE

June 23–25

EAGLE PRIDE FESTIVAL

Join Houston Eagle for three days and nights celebrating Pride with an engaging entertainment lineup. tinyurl.com/54abve5v

COMMUNITY

June 24

FAMILIES WITH PRIDE

Join Council Member Abbie Kamin and the Greater Houston LGBT Chamber of Commerce for the second annual Families with Pride event, a free celebration of family and togetherness at Levy Park. tinyurl.com/mjxu4ku7

June 24

PRIDE RUN

Get revved up before the parade begins with Pride Run, the race made for everyone. There’s a 5K, a 10K, and a 5K walk beginning at Hennessy Park in downtown Houston. Come ten minutes before the run to participate in the Rainbow Throw, with colored powder thrown in the air. tinyurl.com/2uw64t4b

COMMUNITY

June 24

THE ANNUAL PRIDE PARADE

The 45th Annual Official Houston Pride LGBT+ Parade will take place downtown on Smith and Milam streets, the culmination of an entire month of events celebrating the LGBTQ community. This is Houston’s premier Pride event, attended by thousands each June. The parade is free, but Pride Houston encourages everyone to register. tinyurl.com/4dddt87p

NIGHTLIFE

June 24

KINKY CIRCUS PRIDE PARTY

Kinky Collective and Numbers nightclub present Kinky Circus, an evening supporting local circus performers with a market featuring local artists and vendors. Enjoy music and food trucks throughout the night, as well. tinyurl.com/343rsfpb

On April 30, 2023, a Backyard BBQ Sunday Funday fundraiser for Mario Castillo, candidate for Houston City Council’s District H, was hosted by Stephen Miranda and Blake Mudd. Pictured are Stephen Miranda, Mario Castillo, Joel Rottier, and Blake Mudd.

SCENE OUT

Photos by DALTON DEHART AND CREW

The National AIDS Memorial opening reception with Bank of America and the Greater Houston LGBT Chamber of Commerce was held on May 3, 2023. Pictured are Bank of America team members and LGBT Chamber leaders and members.

OUT for Education’s annual scholarship presentation ceremony recognized its 2023 recipients at Big Brothers and Big Sisters of Houston on May 3, 2023. Pictured are the scholarship recipients.

On May 4, 2023, the Greater Houston LGBT Chamber of Commerce Pride @5 event was held at MarMo Plaza in Galveston. Pictured are Jack Berger, Robert Zahn, Tom Schwenk, Christie Cornelius, Tammi Wallace, and Brian Schwenk

The Black Queer AF Festival was held at Stampede Houston on May 6, 2023. Pictured are Marti Harper, Ava Brooks, Ian L. Haddock, and Rev. Dr. Sande Bailey-Gwinn.

On May 12, 2023, the Housing Our Future Gala, sponsored by the Montrose Center, was held at the Ballroom at Bayou Place. Pictured are Meleah Jones, and Kennedy Loftin

The Montrose Softball League Association held its Miss MSLA Pageant at South Beach on May 20, 2023. Pictured are Celina Dominguez-Lucci, Naomi Gordon (the new Miss MSLA), and MimiMosa.

On May 26, 2023, Congressman Al Green hosted a Pride Town Hall at Urban Eats Bistro

Michael’s Outpost presented Modern Nostalgia with hosts Lana Blake and Violet S’Arbleu on May 28, 2023. Pictured are Violet S’Arbleu, Vegas Van Cartier, Veronica Strutts, and Lana Blake

Bar & Market. Pictured are Levi Rollins, Congressman Al Green, and Eric Munoz.

Equality Texas hosted its May social at Axelrad on May 21, 2023. Pictured are Ethan Ganz, Miranda Wood, Meghan Fairbanks, Wil Jeudy, and David Galvin

On May 21, 2023, Legacy Community Health presented its 21st annual Mint Julep blast-off party at the home of Tony Bravo and Richard Werner. Pictured are JD Doyle, Tony Bravo, Linda Cantu, Steve Stellenwerf, Chree Boydstun, Cyndy Garza Roberts, and Ray Purser

On May 13, 2023, the closing reception for The Art of Black Pride: A Black LGBTQ Art Exhibition was held at Modern Art Gallery. Pictured are (front row) Harrison Guy (curator), Tempest, Tyron Favalora, Deon Hunter, Shawn Artis (ally/ asst. curator), Rhys Caraway, (top row) Abiola Wabara, Terrell Swinton, Wyntress X’ion, and Jon Eric Wright

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The War on ‘Woke’

Right-wing outlets are demonizing businesses that support Pride Month.

Analysis by OLIVER DARCY, CNN

(CNN) — Prepare yourself for a Pride Month imbued with callous intolerance.

Fueled by right-wing media personalities and institutions like Fox News, conservatives are waging a ferocious war on companies that express support for the LGBTQ community, with hostilities against the celebration of gay rights swelling to levels not seen in many years. In effect, the supposedly anti-cancel culture crowd is leading the summer’s biggest cancel-culture campaign.

In recent weeks, right-wing media has smeared and incited boycotts against Bud Light and Target, two jumbo American brands that have been thrust into the center of the toxic culture wars. Both companies have been relentlessly attacked over their show of public support for the LGBTQ community. In recent days, The North Face, Kohl’s, and Chick-fil-A have also come under assault in the expanding war. And Disney, of course, has been an endless punching bag since it spoke out against the so-called “Don’t Say Gay” bill in Florida last year.

In the right-wing media universe, in which millions of Americans firmly reside,

these companies have been portrayed as “woke” and evil corporations seeking to groom children with radical—even Satantic—gender ideology that will corrupt their brains and ultimately lead to the destruction of society.

The attacks have put companies in the uncomfortable position of standing up for the values of their own employees and the public writ large against a relentless volley of threats of mass boycotts, lost revenue, and ultimately, long-term brand harm. With each offensive—and claimed victories— the activists wielding the pitchforks have become more emboldened and the business atmosphere more chilled.

Written in black and white, the attacks look deranged. But it is precisely what some of the loudest and most influential rightwing media figures are promoting to their large followings, with new self-generated outrage cycles generated daily. It isn’t quite QAnon, but it’s close—and it is being fed to the GOP base in broad daylight. You don’t have to go to the dark corners of the internet to find this style of crazed commentary; it’s available each day via mainstream rightwing outlets.

ERIC THAYER/BLOOMBERG/GETTY IMAGES

In many cases, prominent personalities are not even trying to be secretive about their end goal, as they perhaps would have done in years past. In fact, they are saying the quiet part aloud. The Daily Wire’s Matt Walsh, one of the leading purveyors of anti-LGBTQ rhetoric in the US, has explicitly stated that the aim is to make the open embrace of the LGBTQ community harmful to brands.

“The goal is to make ‘Pride’ toxic for brands,” Walsh tweeted. “If they decide to shove this garbage in our face, they should know that they’ll pay a price. It won’t be worth whatever they think they’ll gain. First Bud Light and now Target. Our campaign is making progress. Let’s keep it going.”

It is important to remember that a notso-insignificant portion of the American populace takes this rhetoric to heart. For the conservative news organizations and businesses that promote it, the rhetoric is profitable because it resonates with and excites their audiences. The articles generate clicks, videos attract eyeballs, and the content in general prompts significant engagement—the lifeblood of the internet.

Which is to say that this burgeoning facet of the culture wars, which is now unquestionably the most dominant strain, is not going away any time soon. In fact, with Pride Month underway and more brands showing their support for the LGBTQ community, expect more fronts to open up. As the right-wing media personalities leading this campaign have said: Bud Light and Target were just the beginning.

The Human Rights Campaign released a statement Wednesday, signed by more than 100 advocacy organizations and allies, condemning the right’s use of “the extremist playbook of attacks.”

“Their goal is clear: to prevent LGBTQ+ inclusion and representation, silence our allies, and make our community invisible,” the coalition said. “These attacks fuel hate against LGBTQ+ people, just as we’ve seen this year with more than 500 anti-LGBTQ+ bills that restrict basic freedoms and aim to erase LGBTQ+ people.”

“RIGHT-WING MEDIA PERSONALITIES ARE LEADING THE SUMMER’S BIGGEST CANCEL-CULTURE CAMPAIGN.”

While we have led the way with expanded services and programs for people from all walks of life, we have also stayed true to our roots: We believe neighbors should help neighbors and that by doing what is right, lending a hand to one another, we are making a difference.

To learn more about our comprehensive services and programs, including Adult Primary Care, Behavioral Health, HIV/STI Testing, Prevention, & Treatment, OB/GYN, Pharmacy, & Transgender Care, call (832) 548-5000 or visit LegacyCommunityHealth.org

A Historic Appointment

Dr. Cody Pyke is the first transgender and nonbinary Harris Health System trustee.

By MARENE GUSTIN

On May 16, Harris County Commissioners Court made history when it unanimously approved Dr. Cody Pyke as the first openly transgender and nonbinary member of Harris Health System’s nine-member board of trustees.

An appointee of newly elected Precinct 4 Commissioner Lesley Briones, Dr. Pyke (who uses both she and they pronouns) is a medical doctor, attorney, bioethicist, and adjunct professor at the University of Houston College of Medicine. They have a medical doctorate from Baylor College of Medicine, a juris doctorate and Master of Laws in Health Law from the University of Houston Law Center, a Master of Science degree in bioethics from Clarkson University, and a Bachelor of Music degree from Trinity University. Dr. Pyke has served on the National Perinatal Association Board of Directors and has worked on public policy for the Texas Senate and in nonprofits such as the

Children’s Assessment Center and the Tahirih Justice Center. The Harris Health System appointment is for a two-year unpaid term.

“I am incredibly proud to appoint Dr. Pyke to the Harris Health board,” said Commissioner Briones. “Not only are they exceptionally qualified for this role, but their perspective as an advocate for health equity and intersectional justice in health care is much needed. Her lived experience as a nonbinary transgender woman will bring a needed perspective to the board as we strive to create a more equitable and inclusive healthcare system in Harris County. While the Texas Legislature advances harmful legislation targeting the transgender community, we must remain committed to science-based medical practices that prioritize reliable health care for every person in our community. Harris County must be datadriven and strive to be a model of inclusivity, equality, and fairness.”

Commissioner Briones later told O utSmart, “Dr. Pyke is so well qualified, it’s a win-win for

Harris Health—especially given the very dangerous legislation going on in Austin this session. There is a stark contrast between Harris County and the State of Texas. Harris County will champion inclusion. It gives me pride that the decision was unanimous. I thought it might be a four-toone split [since the Court has four Democratic commissioners and one Republican]. I was surprised it was unanimous, but very proud.”

Dr. Pyke is also a powerful advocate for trans people in Texas. In March of this year, Dr. Pyke testified at a State Senate committee hearing on bills targeting LGBTQ Texans, including Senate Bill 14. It was the same hearing in which Houston doctor and GOP activist Steven Hotze called trans people and their providers “pedophiles.” Senator José Menéndez admonished him for the remark, and when Hotze replied “That’s bullshit,” he was removed from the hearing.

Dr. Pyke remarked at the time that Republican committee chair Bryan Hughes “seemed to take no issue with transphobia, only profanity.”

“Since transitioning myself, I have been subject to physical and verbal assaults by complete strangers on the streets,” they said. “It’s not a fad; it’s not a social contagion. It is a real identity, and we deserve your protection, not your hatred.”

Harris Health oversees a fully integrated $2.3 billion healthcare system that includes community health centers, same-day clinics, multi-specialty clinic locations, a dental center, a dialysis center, mobile health units, and two full-service hospitals in Harris County. It is the county’s key safety-net provider for 300,000 indigent and low-income patients. Last year, Harris Health took over healthcare services for the county jail.

“My most important priority for Harris Health is making sure health care is accessible for all, regardless of citizenship status or health insurance,” Dr. Pyke said. “I have done extensive research on incarcerated health care and have given talks on pregnancy care in jail. Having an LGBTQ person at the table for the first time will add a voice for the community.”

Concerning the multiple anti-LGBTQ bills floating through the Texas Legislature, Dr. Pyke was very adamant. “That’s the million-dollar question right now, isn’t it?” I will push the board to do what we can for LGB and trans people in Harris County. The bills will be tied up in legal battles—as they are now in other states where similar bills have been passed. The mission of Harris Health is to improve the health of those most in need in Harris County—[including] trans people—through quality care delivery, coordination of care, and education.”

“HAVING AN LGBTQ PERSON AT THE TABLE FOR THE FIRST TIME WILL ADD A VOICE FOR THE COMMUNITY.”

—Dr. Cody Pyke

Targeting Target

Analysis by NATHANIEL MEYERSOHN, CNN

New York (CNN) — During every Pride Month in June for the past decade, Target has sold merchandise for LGBTQ customers, employees, and allies. But this year, Target faced an anti-LGBTQ campaign that went viral on social media.

Fueled by far-right personalities and on social-media platforms, the anti-trans campaign spread misleading information about the company’s Pride Month products and its business practices.

Hurting brands’ sales and reputations was the stated goal of the campaign: “The goal is to make ‘Pride’ toxic for brands,” said right-wing commentator Matt Walsh on Twitter. “If they

CELEBRATE PRIDE WITH A JEWISH TWIST!

Keshet Houston invites you to our upcoming Pride events.

FRIDAY, JUNE 23

decide to shove this garbage in our face, they should know that they’ll pay a price. It won’t be worth whatever they think they’ll gain.”

The campaign became hostile, with threats levied against Target employees and instances of damaged products and displays in stores.

That effectively held Target hostage: the company was forced to make an impossible choice to either safeguard its employees and stores or continue to support customers who wanted to buy the products it was selling.

In the end, Target opted to protect employee safety by removing certain items that it said caused the most “volatile” reaction from opponents.

“Target should put the products back on the shelves and ensure their Pride displays

are visible on the floors, not pushed into the proverbial closet. That’s what the bullies want,” said Kelley Robinson, the president of the Human Rights Campaign, a civil-rights group. “Target must be better.”

Like Bud Light before it, Target ended up alienating just about everyone in the process with its response.

Meeting Demand

Target became the focus of the anti-LGBTQ campaign’s ire for its Pride Month merchandise, but the campaign misrepresented Target’s ambitions.

Target, one of the largest retailers in the country, was selling Pride-themed merchandise to customers who wanted to buy them. It’s capitalism and ultimately a business decision in the interest of enriching Target’s shareholders.

Yoram Wind, a marketing professor at the University of Pennsylvania’s Wharton School, said Target was trying to reach a growing LGBTQ market of customers and employees. Around 7 percent of Americans identified as LGBTQ in 2021, according to Gallup, up from 3.5 percent in 2012.

“It’s helping us drive sales, it’s ➝

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SATURDAY, JUNE 24

March with the Jewish community to the tunes of a klezmer band in Pride Houston’s downtown parade.

For more info and to register, go to WWW.KESHETHOUSTON.ORG or email info@keshethouston.org.

The giant retailer is being held hostage by an anti-LGBTQ campaign.

building greater engagement with both our teams and our guests, and those are just the right things for our business today,” Target CEO Brian Cornell told Fortune last month of the company’s diversity and inclusion initiatives.

The campaign made other false claims, including that Target was marketing one product for transgender adults to children. Target sold a women’s swimsuit that was described as “tuck friendly” for its ability to conceal male genitalia. The bathing suit was available for adults only, according to screenshots of the items taken when they were available online.

Opponents also highlighted Target’s products made by trans designer Erik Carnell, who has designed merchandise with images of horned skulls and symbols of Satan. Target did not sell any of these products. For Target, the UK designer said on Instagram that he created a bag, tote, and sweatshirt for adults with messages such as “We Belong Everywhere,” “Too Queer for Here,” and “Cure Transphobia.” Misinformation spread that his Target collection was for children.

Those products were just a handful of the approximately 2,000 items in Target’s Pride Month collection that includes shirts, coffee mugs, and stationery.

Target on Wednesday said in a statement

it was removing “items that have been at the center of the most significant confrontational behavior.” The company said it experienced threats that impacted employees’ sense of safety and well-being.

The company told the Wall Street Journal that people have confronted workers in stores, knocked down Pride merchandise displays, and put threatening posts on social media with video from inside stores.

“Our focus now is on moving forward with our continuing commitment to the LGBTQIA+ community and standing with them as we celebrate Pride Month and throughout the year,”

Target said in its statement.

But Target’s response has frustrated supporters of gay and transgender rights, who argued the company caved to bigoted pressure.

“CEO of Target Brian Cornell selling out the LGBTQ+ community to extremists is a real profile in courage,” California Gov. Gavin Newsom said on Tuesday.

Sarah Kate Ellis, president of the advocacy group GLAAD, said that corporate leaders must step up for their LGBTQ employees and consumers and “not cave to fringe activists calling for censorship.”

A Pride Month merchandise display at a Target store in New Jersey. SETH WENIG/AP

Pressure on Brands

More brands are being caught in cultural issues, in part because of social media.

“It’s always been best-practice, in my view, for brands to stay away from super-controversial issues that are not directly related to their business,” said Tim Calkins, a marketing professor at Northwestern University’s Kellogg School of Management. “The problem is that today there are many issues that are controversial.”

The campaign against Target comes amid a record number of anti-LBGTQ bills introduced in statehouses this year, and escalating political attacks on transgender people by leading Republican candidates for president.

Companies such as Bud Light and Nike have also been targeted over promotional campaigns featuring transgender people.

Disney has also been caught in a protracted fight with Florida Governor Ron DeSantis stemming from legislation he signed that prohibits teachers from discussing sexual orientation and gender identity in class, known by critics as the “Don’t Say Gay” law.

And the Los Angeles Dodgers this week also reversed course and extended a new invitation to a drag group after earlier disinviting them from the team’s upcoming Pride Night at Dodger Stadium.

Although Target was acting to protect employees, some corporate marketing experts say the company’s response could embolden gay- and transgender-rights opponents to target other brands.

They questioned why Target couldn’t attempt other solutions, such as beefing up store security or trying to educate customers and employees, before pulling the products altogether.

“It does seem like you’re caving in to a bully,” said Paul Argenti, a professor of corporate communication at Dartmouth University’s Tuck School of Business. “It sets a dangerous precedent.”

“OUR FOCUS NOW IS ON MOVING FORWARD WITH OUR CONTINUING COMMITMENT TO THE LGBTQIA+ COMMUNITY.”

Five More Fails for 2023

It’s been a real un-fun couple of months, what with the mass shooting in Allen, Texas, followed by another one in Cleveland, Texas. Or the first-ever indictment of a former president, followed by a first-ever conviction for sexual abuse and defamation. Then we had the indictment of a current member of Congress for his hanky-panky problem. Air Force fighter jets shot down multiple UFOs over North America, and they won’t tell us what they are. The war in Ukraine, and threats of war in Asia. Floods in California, and floods of desperate migrants coming across the southern border.

For those of you hoping for some fresh bad news to kick off your summer, I give you here my five best predictions. It’s gonna be a helluva summer, y’all.

Former Texas Governor Rick Perry is seriously considering running once again for President of the United Damn States of America. This is the man who, in a presidential debate, could not remember all three of the federal departments he wanted to abolish, and ended up just saying “Oops” to a stunned audience of voters who were in search of a candidate who could remember three things at once. Perry now believes that the ability to remember things is actually not a quality America needs in a president.

I’ve determined that he has three reasons for this newfound belief, but I can only give you two of them because I forgot the third one: (1) Being forgetful is actually a plus these

LEFT OUT

By SUSAN BANKSTON

days, because it makes testifying under oath so much easier, and (2) He ain’t got nothin’ else to do, Sue. Bless his heart, he couldn’t organize a pissing contest in a beer brewery.

2. Witnesses Revealed Republicans in Congress announced they had a slam-dunk corruption case against Joe Biden and his family, with a certified whistleblower and nine others willing to testify under oath. But then the headlines stopped dead. Congressvarmint James Comer, who appears to be leading this circus, revealed that they had lost their witnesses. Yeah, they “lost” them. Shocking. (Translation: Not one damn bit shocking.)

Comer said of the missing witnesses, “Nine of the ten people that we’ve identified have very good knowledge with respect to the Bidens, [but] they’re either currently in court, they’re currently in jail, or they’re currently missing.”

Honey, if they were from Texas, they could be all three things at once.

Three of the witnesses gave their names as Mike Rotch, Dixie Normous, and Haywood Jablowmee, and all three used James Comer’s home address as their residence.

Personally, I think the missing witnesses were in one of those UFOs that the Air Force shot down.

3. Donald Trump Disappoints

CNN can kiss my big blue butt. Giving Trump free airtime on the teevee is not news, commentary, biographical background, or healthy for children. It is rot. It is lower than a snake’s belly in a wheel rut. It is pornography with bad lighting. It is a boring plot line delivered with boring elevator music in the background.

So everybody is all upset that the Chinese are spying on us. All of that outrage is kind of like leading the charge into hell with a bucket of ice cubes while screaming about weather balloons.

Do you want to stop people from spying on you? Turn off that damn Alexa.

Good Lord, Honey, everybody on my street has a Ring doorbell so they can spy on package thieves at their front door—and at the house across the street and two houses on either side of that one. I’ve got one of those thief-cams, and I’m not even Chinese.

5. Legislators Won’t Legislate

This year’s 88th Texas Legislative Session has me rolling my eyes so far back that I’m checking out my own butt. While Republicans were hollering about pedophiles grooming children, a Texas legislator got caught molesting young women working at the Capitol. A Republican legislator, of damn course.

In June of 2003, the Supreme Court ruled that every single state law banning sodomy was unconstitutional. But of course, Republicans in the Texas Legislature still refuse to take the unenforceable Texas sodomy law off the books. They do it for one reason, and one reason only: to be mean. That’s it.

Until next month, if you can’t get out and shake it, do like I do and just rattle a little. Happy Pride!

Susan Bankston lives in Richmond, Texas, where she writes about her hairdresser at The World’s Most Dangerous Beauty Salon, Inc., at juanitajean.com.

1. Rick Perry Runs

4. Spy Scandals Exposed

Hot predictions to keep us on our toes.

By GRACE YUNG, CFP

The Pitfalls of Reverse Mortgages

Is it wise to borrow against your home equity?

A reverse mortgage is a type of loan that allows homeowners to borrow against the equity in their homes while still living in them. Instead of making monthly payments to a lender, the lender pays the borrower in a lump sum, in monthly payments, or as a line of credit. This type of loan may sound like a good idea for older adults who want to supplement their income, but there are several reasons why reverse mortgages are not always a good option, and why people need to be careful.

One of the main reasons why reverse mortgages are not a good option is that they can be very expensive. The fees and closing costs associated with a reverse mortgage can be much higher than those associated with a traditional mortgage. In addition, the interest rates on reverse mortgages are often higher than those on traditional mortgages, which means that borrowers end up paying more over time. This can be a significant burden for older adults who are already on a fixed income and may not have the means to pay for unexpected expenses.

Another reason why people need to be careful is that a reverse mortgage can be complex and difficult to understand. Many people who take out a reverse mortgage do not fully understand the terms and conditions of the loan, which can lead to confusion and financial hardship down the road. For example, borrowers may not realize that they are responsible for paying property taxes and homeowners insurance even after they have taken out the loan. This can be a significant burden for older adults who may not have the means to pay for these expenses on their own.

In addition to being expensive and complex, reverse mortgages can also be risky. If a borrower outlives the loan, they

may be forced to sell their home or repay the loan with interest. This can be a significant burden for older adults who may not have the means to repay the loan. Furthermore, if the value of the home decreases over time, borrowers may end up owing more on the loan than the home is worth. This can leave borrowers in a difficult financial situation, and can even lead to foreclosure.

It is also important to note that reverse mortgages are not the only option for older adults who want to supplement their income. There are other ways to tap into the equity in a home, such as selling the home or taking out a home equity loan or line of credit. These options may be more cost-effective and less risky than a reverse mortgage, depending on individual circumstances.

Preparing for retirement is an essential step toward financial security and independence in one’s golden years. Here are some suggestions for saving for retirement, and a few alternative income strategies that

can help individuals avoid the need for a reverse mortgage to supplement their retirement income:

1. Start saving early.

It is never too early to start saving for retirement. The earlier one starts, the more time investments will have to grow. Consider setting up a retirement savings plan such as a 401(k) or IRA and contribute to it regularly.

2. Live within your means. Living below your means can free up money that can be saved for retirement. Budgeting, avoiding debt, and living frugally can help individuals save more money over time.

3. Work with a financial-planning professional and invest wisely. Investing in stocks, bonds, and mutual funds can help grow wealth over time. However, it is important to invest wisely and seek professional advice.

4. Consider alternative income strategies. There are several alternative income strategies that individuals can consider as they are saving for retirement. Some options include rental income from a property, dividend income from stocks, or starting a side business.

5. Maximize Social Security income. For example, delaying Social Security benefits until age 70 can increase the amount of retirement income an individual receives each month. Also, if you are married, you and your spouse can strategize to maximize your total benefits.

6. Downsize or relocate. Downsizing to a smaller home or relocating to a less expensive area can reduce living expenses and free up money for retirement savings.

7. Work a part-time job. Working part-time in retirement can provide additional income while also keeping individuals active and engaged in their community.

These suggestions for proactively saving for retirement can help reduce the need for a reverse mortgage to supplement your retirement income later in life. It is important to plan, seek professional advice from a qualified financial professional, and stay informed about the best options for retirement savings and income strategies.

While reverse mortgages may seem like a good option for older adults who want to supplement their income, they are not always the best choice. They can be very expensive, complex, and risky, and can leave borrowers in a difficult financial situation if they are not careful. Before taking out a reverse mortgage, it is important to carefully consider all the options and to fully understand the terms and conditions of the loan. It may also be helpful to consult with a financial-planning professional, an attorney, and other trusted professionals to determine the best course of action.

Grace S. Yung, CFP ®, is a Certified finanCial P lanner practitioner with experience in helping LGBTQ individuals, domestic partners, and families plan and manage their finances since 1994. She is the managing director at Midtown Financial Group, LLC, in Houston. Member FINRA / SIPC. For more information, visit: www.midtownfg.com

Dr. Marcus de Guzman

Dr. Robert Hines

Dr. Ruby Charania

DEEP ROOTS FOR A STRONG FUTURE.

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AIDS Foundation Houston Rebrands as Allies in Hope

Jeffrey Campbell , its first Black CEO, talks rebranding and organizational evolution.

By ZACHARY McKENZIE

As the conversation surrounding HIV/AIDS has evolved over time, so too have the organizations behind all of the work being done to end the epidemic. Such is the case for AIDS Foundation Houston, which recently announced they have changed their name to Allies in Hope on May 22.

The new name is meant to inspire inclusion and connect with a larger subset of the community. Jeffrey Campbell, who became the first Black CEO of the organization in March, sees the rebrand as an opportunity to serve more Houstonians who would benefit from the nonprofit’s services. “My hope is that our light will shine brighter, and that our reach will be extended. We are moving away from this name that was stigmatizing to many, and I get it,” he says.

“Our organization started in the 1980s as the Kaposi Sarcoma (KS) Committee of Houston. This was the founding name that was created by MD Anderson employees who were seeing this type of rare cancer among young gay men who were otherwise healthy,” Campbell explains. “In 1984, the name was changed to KS AIDS Foundation. The term ‘AIDS’ replaced the term ‘GRID,’ or Gay Related Infectious Disease, as the syndrome of symptoms and opportunistic infections. The word ‘Foundation’ was more than likely added to indicate that the agency was no longer just a committee.” Eventually, the KS was dropped and ‘AIDS Foundation Houston’ (AFH) was adopted. “This was at a time when HIV and AIDS were so closely linked, and opportunistic infections other than KS were being identified.”

When Campbell arrived at AFH in 2019 to serve as the chief program officer, he recalls having some early conversations about the name change. “I came into this organization as a person who had been working in this field for 20-plus years, and had seen us move from a place where we were just trying to keep persons living with HIV healthy to a place where we were talking about longevity. We were also

understanding that an HIV diagnosis was not going to inevitably lead to an AIDS diagnosis. Also, even the medical and science community was no longer using the term ‘AIDS.’ The term is stigmatizing, and has really caused people to shy away from services, whether it’s testing or care or housing.”

“In 2021, we began to put some real efforts

behind the name change. We brought on a marketing firm, Gilbreath Communications, in 2022 to help us with the process,” Campbell says. “Gilbreth conducted focus groups with community partners, AFH staff, and even with our board. There was a lot of research that was done to determine that there needed to be a name change.”

Multiple factors went into the conclusion that a new name was needed to reflect the fresh messaging direction of the organization. “We’ve outgrown the name, and it’s tied to a significant amount of stigma. The other thing that I don’t know if people recognize is that we’re not a foundation. A foundation gives out money. We, as a nonprofit, have to do fundraising and grants and so forth to run this organization. We needed to get that word out of the name.”

Campbell points to the power of education as he reflects on the challenge of convincing those stakeholders who clung to the name. “In the conversations regarding the name, not everybody was convinced. But as the conversations rolled on and information was provided, people began to see the need.”

The rebrand was rooted in creating a more inclusive nonprofit organization and representing the catalog of services it provided. “We once had a person experiencing homelessness that [refused to accept] AIDS Foundation Houston services because of the stigma attached to the name,” Campbell says. “The other thing is that we don’t just serve people living with HIV. We serve

people who have food insecurity, those who are experiencing homelessness, and those not living with HIV but fit into another criteria of one of our housing programs. On the prevention side, we are constantly providing testing opportunities. The work that we do still centers around ending the HIV epidemic. A part of that includes keeping individuals who are HIV-negative in the space of living as an HIV-negative individual.”

Ultimately, thanks to the experts at Gilbreath Communications and input from stakeholders, a new name was decided upon.

“As of May 22, we are Allies in Hope. On that day, the website changed, as did our socialmedia pages, our email addresses, and our logo. We have a great new logo that I love,” Campbell adds. “Our staff, board, volunteers, and even our donors are considered allies, and we’re going to be rolling out a social-media campaign called ‘We Are Your Allies’ that will be attached to [publicizing our new name]. We stand with, and in support of, individuals who are vulnerable to the acquisition of HIV and those who are living with HIV. Everybody who is vulnerable to the acquisition of HIV or living with HIV doesn’t have the same needs, so as an allied organization and as individual allies, we want to stand in that space and let our community know that we’re in this together.

“I’ve gotten messages from people who were around years ago who are questioning why we are doing this. I’ve shared that HIV is not what it was 40 years ago, and as such, this organization should not be the same,.” Campbell concludes. “We should be doing things differently, even though we are maintaining the mission. Moving forward, we will shine brighter and be able to expand our reach and the impact that we have.”

LONG-ACTINGPrEP

APRETUDE is a prescription medicine used for HIV-1 PrEP to reduce the risk of getting HIV-1 infection in adults and adolescents who weigh at least 77 pounds (at least 35 kg).

Reasons to ask your doctor about APRETUDE

APRETUDE is the first and only long-acting, injectable PrEP for reducing the risk of getting HIV-1

It’s an injection given every other month, instead of a pill you take every day

Studied in HIV-1 negative cisgender men, transgender women, and cisgender women at risk of getting HIV-1

APRETUDE is given every other month by a healthcare provider after initiation injections have been given 1 month apart for 2 consecutive months. Stay under a provider’s care while receiving APRETUDE. You must receive it as scheduled. If you will miss a scheduled injection by more than 7 days, call your provider right away.

IMPORTANT FACTS ABOUT APRETUDE

This is only a brief summary of important information about APRETUDE and does not replace talking to your healthcare provider about your medicine.

AP-reh-tood

MOST IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT APRETUDE

Important information for people who receive APRETUDE to help reduce their risk of getting human immunodeficiency virus-1 (HIV-1) infection, also called pre-exposure prophylaxis or “PrEP”:

MOST IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT APRETUDE (cont'd)

Before receiving APRETUDE to reduce your risk of getting HIV-1:

• You must be HIV-1 negative to start APRETUDE. You must get tested to make sure that you do not already have HIV-1 infection.

• Do not receive APRETUDE for HIV-1 PrEP unless you are confirmed to be HIV-1 negative.

• Some HIV-1 tests can miss HIV-1 infection in a person who has recently become infected. If you have flu-like symptoms, you could have recently become infected with HIV-1. Tell your healthcare provider if you had a flu-like illness within the last month before starting APRETUDE or at any time while receiving APRETUDE. Symptoms of new HIV-1 infection include: tiredness; joint or muscle aches; sore throat; rash; enlarged lymph nodes in the neck or groin; fever; headache; vomiting or diarrhea; night sweats. Please see additional Important Facts About APRETUDE at right.

Eligible patients may pay as little as a $0 co-pay per injection on prescribed APRETUDE.

IMPORTANT FACTS ABOUT APRETUDE (cont'd)

MOST IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT APRETUDE (cont'd)

While you are receiving APRETUDE for HIV-1 PrEP:

• APRETUDE does not prevent other sexually transmitted infections. Practice safer sex by using a latex or polyurethane condom to reduce the risk of getting sexually transmitted infections.

• You must stay HIV-1 negative to keep receiving APRETUDE for HIV-1 PrEP.

° Know your HIV-1 status and the HIV-1 status of your partners.

° Ask your partners with HIV-1 if they are taking anti-HIV-1 medicines and have an undetectable viral load. An undetectable viral load is when the amount of virus in the blood is too low to be measured in a lab test. To maintain an undetectable viral load, your partners must keep taking HIV-1 medicine as prescribed. Your risk of getting HIV-1 is lower if your partners with HIV-1 are taking effective treatment.

° Get tested for HIV-1 with each APRETUDE injection or when your healthcare provider tells you. You should not miss any HIV-1 tests. If you become HIV-1 infected and continue receiving APRETUDE because you do not know you are HIV-1 infected, the HIV-1 infection may become harder to treat.

° Get tested for other sexually transmitted infections such as syphilis, chlamydia, and gonorrhea. These infections make it easier for HIV-1 to infect you.

° If you think you were exposed to HIV-1, tell your healthcare provider right away. They may want to do more tests to be sure you are still HIV-1 negative.

° Get information and support to help reduce sexual risk behaviors.

° Do not miss any injections of APRETUDE. Missing injections increases your risk of getting HIV-1 infection.

° If you do become HIV-1 positive, you will need to take other medicines to treat HIV-1. APRETUDE is not approved for treatment of HIV-1.

If you have HIV-1 and receive only APRETUDE, over time your HIV-1 may become harder to treat.

ABOUT APRETUDE

APRETUDE is a prescription medicine used for HIV-1 PrEP to reduce the risk of getting HIV-1 infection in adults and adolescents who weigh at least 77 pounds (at least 35 kg). HIV-1 is the virus that causes Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS).

It is not known if APRETUDE is safe and effective in children younger than 12 years of age or weighing less than 77 pounds (less than 35 kg).

DO NOT RECEIVE APRETUDE IF YOU:

• already have HIV-1 infection. If you are HIV-1 positive, you will need to take other medicines to treat HIV-1. APRETUDE is not approved for treatment of HIV-1.

• do not know your HIV-1 infection status. You may already be HIV-1 positive. You need to take other medicines to treat HIV-1. APRETUDE can only help reduce your risk of getting HIV-1 infection before you are infected.

• are allergic to cabotegravir.

• are taking any of the following medicines: carbamazepine; oxcarbazepine; phenobarbital; phenytoin; rifampin; rifapentine.

BEFORE RECEIVING APRETUDE

Tell your healthcare provider about all your medical conditions, including if you:

• have ever had a skin rash or an allergic reaction to medicines that contain cabotegravir.

• have or have had liver problems.

• have ever had mental health problems.

• are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. It is not known if APRETUDE will harm your unborn baby. APRETUDE can remain in your body for up to 12 months or longer after the last injection. Tell your healthcare provider if you become pregnant while receiving APRETUDE.

BEFORE RECEIVING APRETUDE (cont'd)

• are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed. It is not known if APRETUDE can pass to your baby in your breast milk. Talk with your healthcare provider about the best way to feed your baby while receiving APRETUDE.

Tell your healthcare provider about all the medicines you take, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements. Some medicines may interact with APRETUDE. Keep a list of your medicines and show it to your healthcare provider and pharmacist when you get a new medicine. You can ask your healthcare provider or pharmacist for a list of medicines that interact with APRETUDE. Do not start a new medicine without telling your healthcare provider. Your healthcare provider can tell you if it is safe to receive APRETUDE with other medicines.

POSSIBLE SIDE EFFECTS OF APRETUDE

APRETUDE may cause serious side effects, including:

• Allergic reactions. Call your healthcare provider right away if you develop a rash with APRETUDE. Stop receiving APRETUDE and get medical help right away if you develop a rash with any of the following signs or symptoms: fever; generally ill feeling; tiredness; muscle or joint aches; trouble breathing; blisters or sores in mouth; blisters; redness or swelling of the eyes; swelling of the mouth, face, lips, or tongue.

• Liver problems. Liver problems have happened in people with or without a history of liver problems or other risk factors. Your healthcare provider may do blood tests to check your liver function. Call your healthcare provider right away if you develop any of the following signs or symptoms of liver problems: your skin or the white part of your eyes turns yellow (jaundice); dark or "tea-colored" urine; lightcolored stools (bowel movements); nausea or vomiting; loss of appetite; pain, aching, or tenderness on the right side of your stomach area; itching.

• Depression or mood changes. Call your healthcare provider or get medical help right away if you have any of the following symptoms: feeling sad or hopeless; feeling anxious or restless; have thoughts of hurting yourself (suicide) or have tried to hurt yourself.

The most common side effects of APRETUDE include: pain, tenderness, hardened mass or lump, swelling, bruising, redness, itching, warmth, loss of sensation at the injection site, abscess, and discoloration; diarrhea; headache; fever; tiredness; sleep problems; nausea; dizziness; passing gas; stomach pain; vomiting; muscle pain; rash; loss of appetite; drowsiness; back pain; upper respiratory infection. These are not all the possible side effects of APRETUDE.

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

GET MORE INFORMATION

• Talk to your healthcare provider or pharmacist.

• Go to APRETUDE.com or call 1-877-844-8872 where you can also get FDA-approved labeling.

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Then & Now:

Commercial Success

Blackberri shines again in a Pride Month ad campaign.

By SAM BYRD

Photo by VICTOR CONTRERAS

Queer Houstonians love to see one of our own making a big splash. That’s exactly what bearded drag entertainer Blackberri did two summers ago when she was featured in a Facebook marketing campaign that first appeared during the Mount Olympus of television events: the Super Bowl.

“The [ad producers] scouted me from social media and reached out to me. They said they love my content and my drag, and they wanted me to travel to Austin to film a commercial,” she recalls about the project. “When I initially got the call, I thought it was a scam—one of those modeling things people do in the mall. But it ended up being legit, and I’m glad I answered the call.”

For her brief scenes in the commercial, the entertainer drove to Austin and filmed for nine hours. “I didn’t know when [the ad] would be released, and I didn’t know it was going to be as big as it was.”

Much to her pleasant surprise, the scope of the ad campaign was immense, and the reaction was almost instantaneous. As soon as the ad hit on Super Bowl Sunday, the messages started pouring in.

“My Facebook flooded with people tagging me in pictures and videos. It’s something you don’t expect from a Black

fat bearded queen from Texas. It was an amazing opportunity, and I’m glad I got to do it. I got to showcase ‘alternative drag’ for Middle A merica, [where they] probably think I’m the devil,” she told O utSmart in 2021.

But the Super Bowl was only the beginning, and the ad started playing on Telemundo, Netflix, Hulu, and YouTube. “People were seeing it all over the place. It was kind of crazy,” she recalls.

Blackberri already had a prominent following in the Greater Houston area, but the national recognition (and nice paycheck) she gained propelled her even further toward her drag aspirations.

“It honestly gave me a new start. I was able to buy a car and buy more costumes, and do stuff like that,” she says. “Also, the commercial elevated my drag [by providing] opportunities that I didn’t have before.”

Two years after making her national debut, Blackberri’s life has not slowed down.

“Since the ad, I’ve been traveling a lot for out-of-town gigs. Everything’s been pretty amazing,” she said.

Naming some of her notable accomplishments, the glamazon rattled off a who’s-who list of organizations and people she’s worked

with recently.

“I was the first official emcee for Bunnies on the Bayou. They’ve never had an emcee for the event, so that was an amazing opportunity to help raise money for some great causes,” she recalls. “I’ve been booked to perform twice on cruise ships alongside Jimbo from RuPaul’s Drag Race Canada. I’ve opened for Miz Cracker and for Alaska Thunderfuck 5000. I’ve opened for a couple of music artists at the House of Blues, and I hosted both Serve! Legends Only drag shows at Warehouse Live.”

Through all of the success, she has not forgotten about her fans here in H-town. She performs regularly at JR’s, Hamburger Mary’s, ReBar, The Room Bar in North Houston, and occasional event bookings across the city.

As for any future projects she’s got her eye on, Blackberri remains tight-lipped but does manage to drop a few clues.

“I actually am a part of a national campaign for a popular company that will be out for Pride. I can’t say what it’s for, but it’s pretty huge. It’s just as big [as the Facebook campaign],” she hints.

Follow Blackberri on Facebook at facebook.com/darius.marq.

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Blackberri on the cover of OutSmart’s 2021 June Pride issue.

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All Medicare Beneficiaries are susceptible to Medicare fraud, but there are certain challenges that LGBT adults face that increase their vulnerability.

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the service is for a sex that is di erent than their identification papers. Do not worry! This is typically due to an “auto-rejection” and can be fixed. Remember: Medically necessary services cannot be denied due to gender. 90MPPG0017, from the U.S. Administration for Community Living, Department of Health and Human Services, Washington, D.C. 20201.

Houston’s 45th Annual Pride Parade

Pride Houston 365 celebrates inclusivity and equality.

By MORGAN GAGE

Pride Houston 365 will host the 45th annual Pride parade downtown on June 24, with prime viewing spots at Houston City Hall, 901 Bagby Street, on Saturday, June 24, 2023, from 7 to 11 p.m.

Hundreds of thousands of attendees are expected. The parade is free to everyone, though Pride Houston 365 encourages attendees to register in advance. VIP packages are also available for purchase, which include seated parade-viewing areas, an open bar during the parade, and light snacks. As of early June, organizations could still register to march or enter a float in the parade.

Although there is no Pride Festival this year, Pride Houston 365’s event page encourag-

es attendees to begin the afternoon in Montrose and patronize the bars before heading downtown for the parade.

Grand-marshal ballots were still being cast in early June, with nominees being presented in female-identifying, male-identifying, gendernonconforming/nonbinary, and ally categories. Nominees include Margarita Pérez Frinsco, Katharine Ligon, and Joelle Bayaa-Uzuri in the female-identifying category; Chip Ware and Ethan Gantz in the gender-nonconforming/ nonbinary category; W. Jeffrey Campbell, Dylan Forbis, and Brad Pritchett in the maleidentifying category; and Mary Hooper, Christian D. Menefee, and Christian Kelleher in the ally category.

After community grand-marshal voting is complete, winners will be announced during Pride kickoff events. Responsibilities of a grand marshal include event appearances, media appearances, and participation in the Pride parade. According to Pride Houston 365’s website, grand-marshal nominees and grand marshals are expected to “positively represent Pride Houston, Inc. in all public activities.”

Other events hosted by Pride Houston 365 include an official Pride Market at Karbach Brewing on June 4; the annual fashion show Rock the Runway at RISE Rooftop on June 22; EDEN, hosted at RISE Rooftop on June 23; and an official parade after-party at RISE Rooftop on June 24.

WHAT: The 45th Annual Official Houston Pride LGBT+ Parade

WHEN: Saturday, June 24, 7–11 p.m.

WHERE: Houston City Hall, and on Smith and Milam Streets

INFO: pridehouston365.org

First, we speak with Alton DuLaney, who lives and breathes art—from airport exhibitions to creating brilliantly wrapped gifts. He is convinced that Houston has “by far the most supportive and embracing art scene.” Then we visit with Zach Paugh, a performing and visual artist who you may have seen in Star Warsinspired drag ensembles throughout Space City. And Houston-based TikTok creator Kelon Campbell has created a variety of characters that charm (and befuddle) viewers who tune in to chat live on the app.

We check in with student activist Cameron Samuels, the teen who battled Katy ISD’s homophobic internet search filters and book bans, as well as Grace Gibson, a local drag king who opens up about her journey with sobriety

that helped her fully realize her queer identity.

And don’t miss Dr. Jake Newsome’s insights about the original 1970s symbol of Pride: the pink triangle that was originally used in Nazi Germany to identify LGBTQ concentration-camp prisoners.

Then Kevin Anderson, founder of The T.R.U.T.H. Project, talks about the challenges of finding pride within himself, and the inseparability of being both Black and gay.

Throughout this special Pride edition, we also have your go-to guides to keep you celebrating—from a diverse lineup of LGBTQ social groups to mouthwatering food and drink specials to, of course, information on many of the must-attend Pride events throughout the city.

Houston is trading in spring showers for rainbows as Pride Month sweeps across the city. Here at OutSmart, we are celebrating the people who make Houston’s vibrant LGBTQ community what it is.

THE ARTISTIC ODYSSEY

Alton DuLaney believes in the transforming power of art.

By CONNOR BEHRENS

Whether he’s curating the perfect exhibit at Houston airports or creating dazzlingly wrapped presents as “The World’s Most Famous Gift Wrap Artist,” Alton DuLaney lives and breathes art.

“Art, and beauty, has always been and continues to be the driving force in my life,” he says. “Creativity has always come easy to me. My mom likes to tell the story that when I was six years old, I announced to her that I was going to be an artist when I grew up. I said I would travel the world and be famous!”

DuLaney made his childhood dreams come true, as the artist has appeared on numerous national TV shows including Rachael Ray, The Jimmy Kimmel Show, The Today Show, Good Morning America, and CBS Sunday Morning In addition to being featured in numerous local and national publications, DuLaney’s own show, The Great Gift Exchange on YouTube Originals, encourages creativity and the beauty of inspiration. He is also the host of #HoustonAirportsArt, where he promotes art in public places.

Ever since he was a teenager, DuLaney has been captivated by the freedom and creativity of art. “I’ve always been fascinated with art’s ability to transform objects, images, and actions into something else,” he says. “What makes a clump of clay into an invaluable sculpture? What makes the movement of the body into dance? What makes sound into music? The answer to all of these is art.

“Growing up in Splendora, I discovered the world of art through the James Surls studio, where I became an intern and was exposed to artists, exhibitions, performances, and an entire creative universe,” he recalls. Those connections soon took him across the country as he gained more and more experience in the art world.

“My entire adult life and career in New York, LA, and now back in Texas, has all been lived under a creative umbrella encompassing some pretty exciting career opportunities. Flash-forward to the present, and I currently have a piece of sculpture in the A Gift from the Bower show curated by DiverseWorks out at the Locke Surls Center for Art and Nature in Splendora.”

What has garnered the most national attention from the public, however, is DuLaney’s gift-wrapping abilities.

“Working as the creative director for a paper-goods company, I was nominated to represent the company in a national gift-wrap competition. The event was held at Rockefeller Center, home of NBC. When the curtains opened and with the cameras rolling, the show began. I won the competition! The next thing I knew, I was in a limo headed to Good Morning America. That afternoon, I was on a flight to LA for a talk show. The press appearances have continued for the last 15 years. CBS Sunday Morning did a feature and coined my nowfamous nickname: The World’s Most Famous Gift Wrap Artist!”

Currently, DuLaney is the Houston Airport System’s curator of public art, overseeing one of the largest public art collections in Texas. DuLaney says this title comes with a lot of pride, and he strives to leave travelers with a fantastic exposure to Houston’s diverse art scene.

“As the curator, I am playing to my audience,” he says. “At the Houston airports, that audience is literally the world. We serve, on average, one million passengers per week. The largest museum in Houston doesn’t get that many visitors in an entire year! So, the exposure for our artists and our program is unparalleled anywhere in the city. Our goal at the airport is to deliver a 5-star guest experience, for which the public-art program plays an important role. Many of our guests [who just change planes in Houston] never leave the airport, so we want to provide them with a taste of the culturally rich and creative talent that is the Houston art world.”

There is something so multifaceted and exciting about Houston’s art scene, with its Southern sensibilities and its melting pot of artists who create their art with an eclectic and interesting palette.

“Having lived in a number of cities around the world, Houston has by far the most supportive and embracing art scene,” he says. “It is friendly, hospitable, and welcoming. There is undeniably some of that Southern charm. It makes me proud to call Texas home.”

DuLaney believes that the LGBTQ community’s natural affection for art is because the community is forced to be creative in a predominately straight world.

“It takes an inventive mind and an inspired sense of survival to navigate cultural norms to find your true self,” he observes. “The world of art is a safe haven for many original thinkers and non-traditionals—not just the gay community. The world of art, television, film, and decor are realms of created realities. Similarly, each of us ultimately creates our own reality.”

Art will always be an important part of our society because the medium can mend gaps and spark conversation between groups of people, DuLaney says.

“There is always beauty in art, if we are open to see it. Art can get you to surround yourself with beautiful people, places, and things.”

For more info, visit AltonDulaney.com.

ART Bench 1, 2021. Carved gray Texas granite, on view at the Splendora Art and Nature Center.

Archival print from DuLaney’s 2018 ART Brand performance at the Splendora Gardens.

“ART, AND BEAUTY, HAS ALWAYS BEEN AND CONTINUES TO BE THE DRIVING FORCE IN MY LIFE.”

—Alton DuLaney

FROM THE STAGE TO THE STARS

Zach Paugh embraces both the performing arts and outer-space adventures.

By CONNOR BEHRENS

Between building outerspace gear for astronauts and appearing around Houston as an intergalactic Star Wars drag queen and cosplayer, self-proclaimed sci-fi nerd Zach Paugh wouldn’t be where he is today without his love for the visual and performing arts.

“I’ve always gravitated toward film and TV,” he says. “Ever since I was little, I was always looking for a story like mine—and also for stories completely unlike mine, in locations I could only dream about visiting. I loved watching films and seeing people draped in beautiful yardages of fabrics or adorned with glittery jewelry. For me, art is the greatest form of escapism.”

Paugh’s involvement with art spans all the way back to his youth. In high school, he became involved in theater as a performer. After making one costume before enrolling in college, he decided to dabble in professional costuming. The 30-year-old worked with Cirque du Soleil and Magic Mike Live in Las Vegas before moving to Houston to work as the costume shop manager for the Houston Ballet.

Living in Houston has been a fun transition from Las Vegas, Paugh says, noting that downtown Houston offers up tons of diverse, engaging entertainment.

“What is unique about the arts scene in Houston is [its easy] accessibility, and how abundantly it flourishes,” he observes. “Coming from Vegas, where there’s a consistent lineup of shows running twice a night, five days a week, I appreciate how every night in Houston there’s something different to do. It’s almost so much that I can’t see it all! I still have plenty more exploring to do.”

Paugh isn’t stopping with the theater stage, however. The designer and costume technician is now involved in creating gloves

for astronauts, an opportunity that grew out of an aerospace structures and materials course that he took online during COVID-19.

“In September of last year, I joined the softgoods team at KBR/Axiom Space and am currently the xEVAS Spacesuit Glove Lead,” he explains. “My team and I build gloves for astronauts, and our gloves will be worn by the first woman and the first person of color on the moon in 2025!”

Paugh’s journey from Houston Ballet to outer space is a natural next step for the costumer, given his intense love for sci-fi and all things Star Wars

“My fascination with Star Wars comes from the lore of the Force, the costume design, and the idea that there’s more life out there in the galaxies surrounding us,” he says. “That’s me in a nutshell! I believe in the interconnectedness of people—the energy between us and wearing clothes that help facilitate and nurture that energy. And I love meeting people and learning about people.

doing it. There isn’t anything more badass than that!”

And it doesn’t stop there. Paugh loves taking his love for design and sci-fi and mixing it with drag. Cici Pingpong, his drag persona, often wears looks inspired by the many fabulous alien species from the Star Wars series.

“I’ve always loved drag,” he says. “My passion for drag comes from my love for theater and for telling stories. In college, I auditioned for the drag show, got in, and used it as a platform to be as wild and creative as I wanted. I love designing and building my own looks, mixing my own music tracks, and just connecting with the audience. I love having fun. Doing the unexpected and making people laugh is what I really love about the whole process.”

Paugh believes the queer community’s love of the arts is a way of overcoming imposed societal norms. “I think the LGBTQ+ community appreciates art because of our history of repression by society who, for too long, has told us how to exist instead of allowing us to flourish by loving the things, and the people, we want to love,” he muses. “I think we love art because we want to find peace and reset our lives—to see something we haven’t seen, to revisit our pasts, to see what we need to see.”

“In particular, the character of Padmé Amidala inspired me to start a career in costume design and costume construction. Padmé was a cunning leader who, despite being told the odds by everyone around her, managed to unite the other races of her planet and use her small contingent of decoys and guards to free her people from occupation. Plus, she wore a velvet tunic with wide sleeves, full half-skirt, and a giant headpiece while

From the stage to the stars, Paugh says he has no plans to slow down, and he’s excited about the next chapter of his artistic journey.

“I am open to whatever the universe has in store for me next,” he says. “I am grateful for the many experiences I have had in my life so far. I welcome the adventure. Whatever it is, I’m up for the challenge.”

Keep up with Zach Paugh on Instagram @pawpr1nts.

“FOR ME, ART IS THE GREATEST FORM OF ESCAPISM.”

—Zach Paugh

Zach Paugh models the astronauts’ glove he is producing for NASA’s 2025 moon mission.

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GOING LIVE WITH TERRI JOE

Houston-based creator Kelon Campbell brings hilarity and shock value to TikTok.

By ZACH McKENZIE

On any given night, “Terri Joe,” one of the characters invented by Kelon Campbell, a queer, Black, male-identifying creator from Humble, Texas, can be seen chatting on TikTok Live with people from all over the world. In spite of what viewers see on their screens, Campbell humorously describes Terri Joe as a white, conservative, heterosexual Christian Southern belle who wears a shoulder-baring floral dress and a dainty cross necklace while spewing homophobic rhetoric, among other gasp-inducing comedy bits.

With his star on the rise, Campbell is setting himself apart from other TikTok creators with visions of bringing his provocative characters to larger audiences in the future.

“All of my characters come from archetypes of people that I enjoy on TV. Terri comes from a show that I used to watch, and still watch to this day, called True Blood. It’s a vampire show with some religious and racial elements,” the 27-year-old explains. “She was mostly inspired by that show, because I don’t know anybody in my life that is in that vein at all.”

The zany Terri Joe condemns homosexuality (referring to gay folks as “hommaseggsyuhs”), liberalism, and non-Christian values. She spends her time on TikTok Live either flirting with her costars, reading them for filth during back-and-forth roast sessions, or having some other sort of dialogue while in character.

Campbell describes his character saying, “She’s definitely Christian, but there’s more behind her. The hate she has for certain groups of people is fueled by ignorance she learned from her family. She says her mother is a ‘benevolent being,’ but her mother’s also the most racist and homophobic person on the planet.” The backstory Campbell has created for Terri Joe creates a complex individual, perfectly poised for improvisation. “She grew up in a sheltered home. She doesn’t want to hate these groups of people, but growing up, that’s what was taught to her. She is a girl

who is very conflicted on what the Bible says, what her parents say, and how she feels.”

Campbell’s natural talent and comedic timing have made him stand out on TikTok, even catching the eye of some familiar names who wanted to go Live with Terri Joe. “Some of the standouts are Madonna, Hunter Schafer, Doja Cat, and Ziwe. I see celebrities as regular people. I actually enjoy the Lives where I’m talking to a random person who doesn’t know what I’m doing or what’s going on, and is confused the entire time.”

While overnight success can go to many creators’ heads, Campbell keeps a low profile as he adjusts to his growing fame. “My personal

life hasn’t changed much, [other than] people coming up to me and wanting to talk or take pictures. Going out in general, and being recognized at the most random places like Walmart, actually makes me super-nervous. People talk to me and recognize me because they see me on the internet and I’m in everyone’s face, but I’m actually super-shy in person at first,” he says with laughter. “TikTok is my job now; I don’t have to work a typical job, [so that’s] a big difference.”

Through his characters, Campbell is able to do and say the most outrageous and seemingly offensive things. It’s the skin he’s in that allows the Houstonian to push the envelope as his various alter egos—including his original character, Jeorgia Peach. “I’ve always been a crazy, wild person—my friends could tell you that. My personality just shines through the characters.”

His refreshingly unfiltered comedic style challenges cancel-culture, as Campbell uses his politically incorrect characters to voice the outrageous insults and jokes that are inspired by his own existence.“I feel like people take life too seriously. Sometimes you have to push those barriers to get people to break out of their shell and think outside of the box. I only say things that adhere to what I can say. I am part of the LGBTQ community, so I get to say these things. I would never say anything about another race or religious group. I’m only saying things that personally relate to me.”

With hopes of bringing his characters to larger platforms in the future, Campbell explains there’s plenty of room at the TikTok table for others looking to pursue internet stardom. “The hardest part is starting. Most people procrastinate, and that’s how it was for me. I’ve always wanted to do something within the social media realm since I was in high school, and I just got into it last year,” he admits.

A comedy career was never one of Campbell’s goals, but acting, in some capacity, has always intrigued him. “The earlier you start, the better you’ll get. Just throw yourself into it, because if you never start, you’ll never know what could happen in the future.”

Keep up with Kelon Campbell on TikTok _psyiconic_, Twitter @TerriJoetheHoly, and Instagram @_psyiconic_/.

“ALL OF MY CHARACTERS COME FROM ARCHETYPES OF PEOPLE THAT I ENJOY ON TV.”

—Kelon Campbell

Terri Joe

TRAILBLAZING TEENAGER

Student activist Cameron Samuels makes a stand by fighting for a seat.

By SAM BYRD

The LGBTQ community is well acquainted with facing discrimination in many forms, but, to borrow a phrase from Martin Luther King Jr., “The arc of the moral universe is long, but it bends toward justice.”

For Cameron Samuels, the courageous teen who battled Katy Independent School District in a 2021 dispute involving the district’s homophobic internet search filters and book bans, being recognized with the Human Rights Campaign’s Trailblazer Award in April was a moment of resolution.

“It was such an honor to receive this award. I made so many connections, and loved having a voice in this program. I hope that my words during the [acceptance speech] inspire more students to act,” says the Seven Lakes High School graduate who uses they/them pronouns.

“It’s not an easy job, and I know that I alone cannot make a substantial change that will finish this work. But I know that I am inspiring others and working with others who will continue and finish this work,” they add. “It means a lot to be recognized for these tireless efforts that can become exhausting. I know there’s so much more to be done, but the recognition, support, and involvement of organizations like the Human Rights Campaign are so appreciated.”

To fully appreciate what that HRC award meant to Samuels, one must understand the origin of their frustration with the suburban Houston school district.

“Katy ISD implemented an internet filter that prohibited students from accessing LGBTQ websites and resources in our schools. Other students and I wanted to find a way to make a change on this policy. We came together and spoke at school board meetings,” they recall. “Then we started seeing that books were being banned as well, so we organized to collect books from publishers and nonprofits, distributed them at after-school clubs, and got

a lot of momentum rolling [that demonstrated] the power that students can have in school districts and school-board policy.”

The Katy Independent School District finally restored access to LGBTQ-affirming websites at its nine high schools after a complaint filed in 2022 by the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) of Texas and Lambda Legal on behalf of Samuels.

Samuels’ narrative extends beyond these initial wins, though, and they used that success as a catalyst for change on a larger scale.

policy, but decision-makers are making policy about us without us, we cannot have our needs met and our voices heard. [Giving] students a seat at the table with school boards—or being involved in policy decision making with state legislators—gives students the confidence and the pride to be the best they can,” Samuels says. “[When our] voices are not only heard as consultants, but are involved in the process, then policymakers can reflect our values more directly. [But] when we’re left out, it only reinforces the status quo created by the traditionally adult-dominated field of politics.”

Since graduating from high school, Samuels is now studying at Brandeis University in Massachusetts, majoring in politics with a journalism minor. And they show no signs of slowing down in Texas politics, despite the geographic distance.

“Along with several other students, I co-founded Students Engaged in Advancing Texas (SEAT). We’re demanding a seat at the table [so we can have a voice in] decisions directly affecting us. We’ve been at the Capitol every week since March, and have been introducing bills and resolutions to support student [participation] in policy decision-making,” they explain.

The group introduced a bill that would prohibit school districts from having internet filters like the one in Katy, and it is pushing legislation that would include students by requiring a student board-member position in Texas school districts. Ultimately, the organization hopes to spread this model of sustainable organizing across Texas.

“When students are directly affected by

“It has played out very well so far. Even though I’m out of the state at Brandeis, we continue to organize digitally. Studying politics and journalism has been really influential for me with regard to building movements in our Texas community,” they say. “I’ve certainly had my eyes on Texas this entire year, so it seems like the Texas can’t be taken out of me. They’re not done with me yet!”

As Samuels contemplates the future, one thing seems certain: they will be involved with change making.

“I am going to see where the opportunity to make change will take me. I’m not entirely sure where it will end up, but politics happens whether or not we are at the table,” they conclude. “I definitely want a seat at the table—for myself, and for other young people, too. Wherever there’s a need to utilize our voices, I hope that I and other young people will be filling that gap.”

Follow SEAT on Instagram

@StudentsEngagedTX.

HRC’s Chris Barry (l) with Samuels at this year’s HRC awards dinner

DALTON DEHART

“KATY ISD IMPLEMENTED AN INTERNET FILTER THAT PROHIBITED STUDENTS FROM ACCESSING LGBTQ WEBSITES AND RESOURCES IN OUR SCHOOLS. OTHER STUDENTS AND I WANTED TO FIND A WAY TO MAKE A CHANGE ON THIS POLICY. WE CAME TOGETHER AND SPOKE AT SCHOOL BOARD MEETINGS.”

—Cameron Samuels

A TEXAS 12-STEP

Grace Gibson finds freedom as a drag king living in sobriety.

By ZACH McKENZIE

When the spotlight found Grace Gibson onstage at Lambda Center Houston, a star was reborn, in a sense. Gibson, who assumes the alias Hugh Stone when delighting crowds as a drag king, went on to win the Mister Lambda 2022 competition, cementing her spot in drag history. Today, the senior talent buyer for music venues credits her sobriety journey as a gateway into drag, the LGBTQ community, and an invitation to fully realize her queer identity.

The Houston native spent her early adult years enjoying the riches of life while indulging in the party lifestyle. In 2021, however, a run-in with the law ultimately led to a lifechanging, court-mandated year of sobriety. “I felt super-isolated and just kind of miserable after my arrest. Everything that I had identified with and my social life was gone. I was very unhappy, and it all felt very out of my control.

“My probation officer suggested I go to an intensive outpatient program (IOP),” the outgoing professional explains. “I had never really been vulnerable with other people, especially people that were also going through tough things. I had never really listened to other people’s experiences. Suddenly, I was hearing stuff that really resonated with me. I always thought that everyone else was just better than I was at not drinking more than a few drinks a night. I blacked out more than other people, and I was so ashamed of that.”

After learning more about different programs and groups aimed at supporting those living a sober life, Gibson decided to check out an in-person recovery group. “I was coming up on 90 days sober, which is a big milestone in early recovery.” With meetings mostly still taking place via Zoom due to the ongoing pandemic, Gibson had a hard time finding a group that was open and available for her to collect her three-month sobriety chip—a tangible reminder for those in 12-step programs to take one day at a time. “I was actually really trying

to avoid Lambda,” Gibson says laughing. “I was married to a man and I had never really thought of myself as straight, but I made a commitment to be in this hetero marriage.”

The infectiously friendly Houstonian rode her bike to Lambda, Houston’s LGBTQ 12-step recovery “clubhouse,” and the rest, in her words, is history. “The topic of the meeting that day was laughter,” she recalls. “All of these people with different lengths of sobriety were talking about how much fun they have in sobriety. Any hesitation about going to Lambda completely disappeared.”

Gibson found safety and a chosen family at the Center. “Whether or not I was gay wasn’t even on my radar anymore. Lambda was the place where I was going to stay sober.”

Eventually, Gibson, who has a musical background that includes performing in a yacht-rock tribute band in New York City, entered in the organization’s Pride competi-

tion, Miss & Mister Lambda. Members of the Center perform in drag and compete for the honor of riding in the Houston Pride parade. One year after getting sober, the newly divorced, freshly out lesbian decided that it was time to pursue the competition.

“I went with the name Hugh Stone and initially thought how cool it would be to have a drag king doing drag story time with kids at libraries. I grew up around drag in Montrose in the ’90s, but I didn’t get to identify with any of it. I just kind of marveled at it. As a kid who was a performer really early on, I can’t help but wonder how seeing an AFAB drag performer would have impacted me.”

Hugh Stone ultimately took the Mister Lambda crown after executing a flawless, high-energy performance of Bruce Springsteen’s “Dancing in the Dark” that was met with boisterous applause. The drag bug had officially bitten. Today, Gibson, who has completed drag bootcamp and recently competed in the Game of Kings contest at Pearl Bar, has an apartment filled with various props such as her handmade drum set, foam wigs, and even a suit made of bubble wrap.

The artist has fully embraced her drag persona, and looks forward to continuing performing despite the senseless ongoing political attacks on the art form. “What I’ve learned the most from doing drag is that it truly is freedom,” she says.

Currently more than two years sober, she pauses before concluding, “Having a creative outlet with that level of intention is so rewarding. It has offered imperative growth and improvements to my mental health. It has impacted how I approach my day-to-day life in general. It’s helped me to be more comfortable in my own skin, and show up in my life as a more authentic and grounded version of myself.”

Learn more about the June 16 Miss & Mister Lambda Competition at lambdahouston.com.

Grace Gibson’s alter ego Hugh Stone

VICTOR CONTRERAS

The Pink Triangle’s Legacy

Dr. Jake Newsome shares his insights on the original 1970s Pride symbol.

By ZACH McKENZIE Photo by JAKE NEWSOME

Today, the rainbow Pride flag waves proudly outside of bars, businesses, and homes, signaling to the general public that members of the LGBTQ community are welcome and affirmed in those spaces. Before the colorful flag first appeared in San Francisco in 1978, the use of the pink triangle—a symbol used in Nazi Germany to identify members of the queer community— was reclaimed by queer activists worldwide.

Dr. Jake Newsome, a scholar of American and German LGBTQ history, has compiled his extensive research on the symbol, its impact on queer liberation, and its historical significance in his book Pink Triangle Legacies: Coming Out in the Shadow of the Holocaust. On June 7, Newsome will speak at Holocaust Museum Houston and share more about the history of the pink triangle and the lessons its meaning inspires for the queer movement today.

“I was first introduced to the history of the Holocaust in college. I am not Jewish, so I didn’t learn about the Holocaust through family history, and unfortunately I didn’t learn about it in high school,” says Newsome, who grew up in rural Georgia. “It wasn’t until I was in college at Valdosta State University that I even knew that there was this thing called the Holocaust. This was around the same time that I was personally beginning to come out and grappling with my identity as being gay, wondering how I fit in with the world and with history.”

Newsome began his research by diving into the literature. “I ended up trying to learn a lot about queer history through books. It suddenly dawned on me that none of my teachers ever talked about what happened to people like me during the Holocaust, or what life was like for LGBTQ folks living in Nazi Germany,” the author explains.

Living in Buffalo and attending graduate school at SUNY’s Buffalo State University, Newsome ventured out to find community and was surprised by what he found. “I learned that queer prisoners in the camps were forced to wear a pink triangle badge. At the same time, I went to my first gay bar in Buffalo and saw

pink triangles used as decorations in the bar,” he recalls. “I had this moment when I wondered if this was the same triangle that I was learning about in Holocaust history. That really set me on this path of trying to learn not only the history, but how this symbol went from the Holocaust to a symbol of the gay community in America 40 years later.

“Before the Nazis came to power, Berlin was the gay capital of the world. Queer people enjoyed a level of freedom and tolerance that no one else had in the rest of the world. Germany was a democracy, and there was this vibrant LGBTQ community and LGBTQ activism. The world’s first gay-rights activist organization was formed in Berlin before the Nazis

came to power,” Newsome says. “And all of this was able to be radically destroyed and driven back underground within a matter of weeks.”

Newsome explains that the Nazis, having inherited Germany’s anti-gay bill, amended that law in 1935, deeming the original too constricting on their ability to arrest queer people. Named Paragraph 175, the new bill made all “indecency” between men a punishable offense. “They intentionally left [the new law’s] language very vague so that they could interpret it however they wanted to on a case-by-case basis, with the goal of arresting as many men as possible and sending them to concentration camps.

“Although Paragraph 175 applied only to queer men, other members of the LGBTQ community were also persecuted by the Nazis,” he says. “That fact often gets glossed over in history. The Nazis treated trans women as cross-dressing gay men, and they were also arrested under Paragraph 175. The Nazis used a range of policies and laws to arrest lesbians and other queer people. They were also sent to concentration camps by the thousands and were marked with a black triangle—the badge for so-called ‘asocials’ (or social deviants).

“The Nazis wanted everything that they did to have a legal backing to it—which I think is important, because the right wing today is passing all of these laws because they want everything to point back to a particular law or policy.”

Newsome describes the law further, saying, “After that 1935 amendment, essentially any type of evidence was enough for an arrest to persecute queer people. This was anything from two men holding hands to being seen kissing, or spending the night together. A lot of times the Nazis would arrest one man who they knew was queer, and essentially torture him to give up the names of other people in his circle.”

In the 1970s, almost three decades after World War II came to an end, Europeans who were witnessing the impact of New York City’s Stonewall Riots decided it was time for them to stage their own movement. Newsome explains, “There was a group of European gender-nonconforming radical queer activists who went to their fellow cis gay activists and said, ‘Look, just by being gender-nonconforming, we are immediately identifiable by society. [But you cis gay men] could pass as straight. You need to understand [that] if you were easily identifiable as gay, you would also face persecution.’”

The groups came together to determine what a gay symbol would entail. “Germans didn’t have to go very far back in their own history, because there was already this pink triangle symbol that was forced upon gay people. They decided to reclaim that symbol, and try to rob it of its negative power,” Newsome explains. “By wearing it by their own choice, they were effectively going to tell society that being gay is in no way shameful or criminal—that it should be, in fact, something that they identify with pride and resilience.

“There were several American activists in Berlin at the time that brought that information about [Nazi] history and the pink triangle back to New York in 1974, and it took off all across the United States, Canada, and jumped the Atlantic back into

Europe as a gay-rights symbol,” Newsome says. “The symbol acted as two things simultaneously: a historical warning of what happens if homophobia is left unchecked, and as a rallying cry. If you saw someone walking down the street with this pink triangle on, you knew that they were part of the community. It was a way to identify each other to help build a community and solidarity, and help turn a queer identity into something that you could have pride in.”

Newsome’s fluency with the history of the pink triangle’s origin in Nazi concentration camps, and how it resonates today as a badge of honor, will be the focus of his Houston lecture.

“I think that folks will come away with a better understanding of not only what happened to queer people during the Holocaust and in the years following, but also with a better understanding of why that history is so incredibly relevant for today,” Newsome says. “I think that this story has something to tell us, more broadly, about how societies decide what’s important to teach as history—and the repercussions of silencing and erasing chapters of history.”

WHAT: Free LGBTQ history lecture by Dr. Jake Newsome

WHEN: June 7, 6:30 p.m.

WHERE: Holocaust Museum Houston

INFO: hmh.org/events

A 1994 Queer Nation Berlin poster depicting a pink triangle and a pink labrys destroying a Nazi swastika.

COURTESY OF MELANIE WEILAND

COURTESY OF QUEER NATION BERLIN

IT’S BEEN A ROUGH LEGISLATIVE SESSION.

LGBTQ+ TEXANS have been under attack in the Texas Legislature like never before, including the passage of terrible, hateful legislation targeting families with trans children. We fought like hell, but I won’t lie to you: Shameful laws were passed this session.

BUT I STILL BELIEVE IN TEXAS AND I HOPE YOU DO TOO. We won’t give in. We won’t give up. And we’ll never stop fighting until love triumphs over hate in Texas. Texas is our home and it’s worth fighting for.

Pol. Adv. paid for by Jerry for Judge Campaign, Jerry Simoneaux, Treasurer, P.O. Box 942, Seabrook, TX 77586. In voluntary compliance with the Judicial Campaign Fairness Act.

FINDING PRIDE IN THE MARGINS

The T.R.U.T.H. Project’s Kevin Anderson reflects on his journey of self-discovery.

By IAN L. HADDOCK

June looks different for Black queer people as we celebrate Pride and commemorate Juneteenth within the same month. Pride is queer activism that started with a riot by two trans women of color in 1969. June 19 (Juneteenth) is the day in 1865 that enslaved Africans in Galveston, Texas, learned of their freedom, marking the end of slavery in Texas. So in the context of Juneteenth, Pride Month becomes an even larger act of courage for Black queer people.

This year, these two concurrent events spark added emotions for our intersecting identities as hateful and oppressive anti-LGBTQ+ bills are passed in the Texas State Legislature. At the same time, we still feel the disparity as Black people who have never genuinely become free.

As I began to think about our continued journeys to freedom, it brought me to a notable local activist whose work often conjoins these complexities of race and sexuality. Kevin Anderson is widely known as a community advocate who founded The T.R.U.T.H. Project, an organization created to utilize the power of art as a catalyst for wellness and healing. The T.R.U.T.H. Project installments have given a stage of expression to many poets, dancers, visual artists, and musicians, including Marsha Ambrosius and Grammy Award-winning artist Chrisette Michelle. Still, Kevin’s journey to find peace within himself as a Black queer man has been a continuously winding road. He says, “I must remind myself that the work I do is often for me first.”

Kevin walked in to be interviewed as he enters any space: with a composed nature, a youthful look, and with salt-and-pepper locks falling to the middle of his back. After hearing his deep, mellow voice, you would never suspect the silencing he experienced as an 11-year-old boy. He describes that child as “an effeminate, double-dutching boy who regularly could be found with his hands on his hips.” Early on, his cousins would ridicule him to stop his expressions of queerness—even before he had the language or understanding to call it that.

For many queer kids, this is the norm. But being around Black men makes asserting our masculinity even more necessary. After all, for many Black males, the only thing they have to take pride in is their maleness.

In this context, Pride is obscured by the

effects of generations of slavery and structural racism—all manifested in a boy’s identity uplifted by glorifying masculinity as his only asset.

As a young, effortlessly flamboyant boy in 1986, Kevin’s family treated him like a dark blemish. So shortly after he turned 17, he left for the military. “The first time I was around Black men was in the Navy; I picked up on many of their behaviors in that space,” Kevin recalls. “We pick up cloned behaviors. It’s all a part of us trying to find ourselves.”

Kevin’s chronic inability to feel his own pride seemed inescapable, even today. Sitting on the floor rubbing his legs, Kevin gazed up, remembering some of the difficult things he’s had to manage as he searched for contentment within himself. He recounts having suicidal ideations while he was driving to work, and realizing he needed someone to care for him. Turning his car around, he headed to the emergency room and checked himself into a mental health facility. This awakened him to realize how depleted he had become in searching for his best self. “Access to pride,” he says, “is not just opening the door. It really is about being conscious about looking for patterns.”

event in May—came to be. After Black people started attending an annual event primarily centering white gay men, its organizers moved the event elsewhere because of the influx of Black people. Although Pride is widely considered a time for the entire spectrum of queerness to experience joy and celebrate their existence, history reminds us why race must be intentionally included.

Still, Kevin is resolved to experience pride, joy, and love in all his intersections. “You find pride in creating a culture of new traditions that impact others, knowing that love is connected to trust. The joy is continuing to be a part of creative spaces and collaborations, knowing we’ve had and will continue to experience trauma. But that shouldn’t stop us from trying.”

This is why during this year’s Pride Month, The T.R.U.T.H. Project is producing its fourth installment of an event titled “Feel My Pride” on June 30, in collaboration with MECA Houston. It’s a space where LGBTQ+ people of color—Black and Brown alike—will come together to express Pride through the lens of art. This event holds space for all the nuances connected to Pride, and for the reimagining of a culture that upholds freedom and the responsibility it entails.

“The tools we use to create this culture are vulnerability, openness to being coached, checking privilege, and honoring uncomfortability,” Kevin emphasizes as he sits upright against the wall with delight.

Though he may have been talking about curating an event that celebrates two cultures, Kevin’s description is the solution to finding Pride in Blackness for the entire spectrum of the LGBTQ+ community.

These patterns make being Black and gay inseparable identities that are essential to how one sees and is seen—patterns that make celebrating Pride Month and Juneteenth a single movement, intertwined within each other for those who exist as both Black and LGBTQ+.

Our local Pride Houston organization has worked to bridge the gap of race, and over the past decade we have seen notable recognition given to Black LGBTQ+ people throughout the month of June. Still, as Kevin notes, we celebrate “Black Pride” in May—a separate month, and proof of how disconnected race is with Pride.

O utsmart ’s May 2018 issue documented how Houston Splash—Houston’s Black Pride

Black queer people have always existed in the margins of the greater LGBTQ+ community. With the spirit of our ancestors—color, identity, and orientation included—we still have the same fight for liberation. Without ignoring either part of our history, we find as much pride in our rainbows as we do in our locks. As much pride in our parades as we do in our coily hair. As much pride in our beads as we do in our long nails, and as much pride in our identity and orientation as we do in our Blackness.

For more info, visit truthprojecthtx.org.

Ian L. Haddock aspires to be a conduit of joy in all things activism and art. He is a published author and writer and leads a team of nontraditional activists at The Normal Anomaly Initiative, Inc.

“ACCESS TO PRIDE IS NOT JUST OPENING THE DOOR. IT REALLY IS ABOUT BEING CONSCIOUS ABOUT LOOKING FOR PATTERNS.”

—Kevin Anderson

A GHOST KITCHEN MATERIALIZES

Urban Eats expands with a new Salt & Sugar deli menu.

By MARENE GUSTIN

Salt & Sugar, a new deli operation in the Heights, popped up back in April as a ghost kitchen with no physical address.

People were ordering the sweet and savory noshes such as delicious deli sandwiches, bagels, and praline French toast bread pudding from the Salt & Sugar website, and had to use a delivery service like Uber Eats, DoorDash, or Grubhub to get the goods.

“But people started figuring out where the food was coming from, and started showing up at Urban Eats,” says Levi Rollins, co-owner (with his partner of 19 years, Eric Munoz) of Urban Eats. That popular Heights eatery and food market, which resides in a two-story former auto repair shop, is quite a unique food emporium that

the couple opened in 2014. But the kind of deli delights that Rollins started dreaming about just didn’t fit the Urban Eats menu.

“We always planned on launching Salt & Sugar, but I put it on the side burner during the pandemic,” Rollins says. “We were so overwhelmed with just keeping the daily business operating. I thought about it every day. We survived by quickly moving to to-go and delivery. We added more grab-and-go grocery items to our market. Because we had the market on the first floor, we were able to stay open and sell togo food. It was a life saver. Our community kept us alive, ordering dinner bundles and meals for delivery or curbside pickup. In addition, we borrowed $650,000 from the SBA to pay our people.

But once the pandemic slowed and businesses were able to reopen, there were more problems with supply-chain issues and raging

inflation.

“I thought, ‘I have the space, I have the product, I have the staff,’” Rollins says. “With all the stress related to inflation and the cost of goods going up, I was noodling around trying to find a way to utilize our space more. So why not start a ghost kitchen?” Thus, Salt & Sugar was born. Offering sandwiches like the truffled egg salad, a classic Rueben, and more, as well as deli eats, fresh salads, and crispy potato wedges, Salt & Sugar has become quite popular in the neighborhood—to the point that people started coming into Urban Eats asking for bagels with a schmear, scones, and fried-chicken biscuits.

“So in May, we set up a deli counter downstairs in the market to sell Salt & Sugar products. They’ll still be two separate businesses, but they will share the same address and hopefully support each other.”

Deluxe Bagel Cluck and Gobble

Levi Rollins (l) and Eric Munoz

“Now, more than ever, we need the support of the community,” Rollins adds. “With the increased food costs, labor costs, and debt, staying operational is so hard. But thinking out of the box and launching Salt & Sugar now has really [allowed us] to save jobs, utilize our space and inventory, and offer the community some great food that I couldn’t make work on the Urban Eats menu.”

While waiting for your deli delights, you can pick up some local food staples or grab a specialty coffee drink in Urban Eats’ first-floor market filled with artisan olive oils, balsamic vinegars, pastas, and other locally sourced food specialties and fresh-baked goods from the kitchen. Then take a peek upstairs to make plans for a luncheon in the bistro, which serves everything from cowboy sliders to meatloaf dinners and lobster ravioli. There’s also a cozy side porch and a rooftop terrace. Some nights there will be live music after 9:00 p.m., and there are always local artists’ paintings featured on the walls for sale.

What

Salt & Sugar’s new Balsamic

Glazed Chicken Club Sandwich

else will be new?

Clairvoyant Tarot Readings By L.A.

Clairvoyant Tarot Readings By L.A.

Clairvoyant Tarot Readings By L.A.

Here is what one client has to say:

Here is what one client has to say:

Here is what one client has to say:

“As a professional forecaster myself, I can attest to L.A. Brown’s remarkable ability to “see” the future. She’s as insightful as she is delightful, whether she’s amazing my party guests or giving me a personal reading, L.A. is spot-on with her predictions...and she goes out a lot farther than my 10-day forecast!”

“As a professional forecaster myself, I can attest to L.A. Brown’s remarkable ability to “see” the future. She’s as insightful as she is delightful, whether she’s amazing my party guests or giving me a personal reading, L.A. is spot-on with her predictions...and she goes out a lot farther than my 10-day forecast!”

“I want to add some homemade kolaches to the Salt & Sugar menu,” Rollins says. “Do you know there’s nowhere on Washington Avenue to get homemade kolaches and bagels?”

If you are in the mood, be sure to try Rollins’ favorite bagel offering: the Funky Monkey Bagel.

—FrankBillingsley

—FrankBillingsley

“As a professional forecaster myself, I can attest to L.A. Brown’s remarkable ability to “see” the future. She’s as insightful as she is delightful, whether she’s amazing my party guests or giving me a personal reading, L.A. is spot-on with her predictions...and she goes out a lot farther than my 10-day forecast!”

—FrankBillingsley

“It’s a schmear of strawberry cream cheese with peanut butter,” Rollins says. “I know it sounds weird, but it is really good!”

Visit Salt & Sugar online at eatsaltandsugar.com.

SPACE CITY PRIDE SPECIALS

Food and Drink with a Cause

By MORGAN GAGE

BETELGEUSE BETELGEUSE

FORGET PUMPKIN SPICE SEASON. GIVE ME PRIDE COCKTAILS AND VIBRANT DESSERTS, SUMMER FLAVORS, AND MONEY DONATED TO ORGANIZATIONS SERVING THE LGBTQ COMMUNITY. DIG INTO PRIDE MONTH WITH THESE FOOD AND DRINK SPECIALS THROUGHOUT HOUSTON WHILE CONTRIBUTING TO THE COMMUNITY’S BETTERMENT.

This Washington Avenue bar is serving up the Yass Queen!, the perfect cocktail to fuel partiers throughout Pride Month. This blend of vodka, fresh strawberries, lemon, simple syrup, edible glitter, and sparkling wine comes in individual cocktails for $11, or $45 pitchers that serve 4 to 6 people. For each drink served throughout June, $1 will be donated to the Montrose Center.

URBAN EATS

Support LGBTQ community journalism with $10 Pride Frosé or Love of Life cocktail. Urban Eats is a bistro, bar, and market owned by two gay men. The frosé is their frozen Peach Mango Sangría swirled with the Tequila Berry Sunset, and Love of Life is a blend of hibiscus syrup, gin, vodka, citrus, and Topo Chico. 50 percent of proceeds, or $5 per drink, will be donated to OutSmart magazine to support continued community-building journalism.

THE WAFFLE BUS

Cool off as temperatures rise across Texas with a Taste the Rainbow Italian Ice. Served up by The Waffle Bus, these Italian ices are colorful with sweet flavoring. Each 6-oz. Italian ice is $4.99, with 10 percent of proceeds donated to Montrose Grace Place, a local nonprofit drop-in center for youth of all genders and sexualities experiencing homelessness.

AXELRAD

Grab a Chromarita at Axelrad. This $11 cocktail consists of tequila, triple sec, lime juice, and hibiscus syrup with a rainbow salt-andsugar rim to pull the drink together. Axelrad will donate 15 percent of their Chromarita sales to the Montrose Center during Pride Month.

GIACOMO’S CIBO E VINO

For every “Pasta Ona Pride” sold throughout the month of June, Giacomo’s will donate $5 to the Montrose Center. The pasta is a colorful mix of sauteed corn, red bell pepper, zucchini, shrimp, and chorizo Ibérico tossed with housemade tagliatelle in a white wine basil butter sauce.

THE ORIGINAL NINFA’S

Enjoy Ninfa’s infamous fajitas with a refreshing watermelon mojito to wash it down. Throughout the month of June, the mojito is $13 with $1 of each drink sold donated to the Gay & Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation (GLAAD).

HAROLD’S

Celebrate Pride with “Love Wins,” a cocktail with Absolut Vodka, smoked pineapples, Aperol, St. Germain, pea flower lavender-infused Gunpowder Gin, and edible glitter topped with La Marca. Cocktails are $10, and carafes are $35. If you want to grab a bite, try a slider flight with rainbow-colored slider buns holding a cheeseburger, fried chicken, pulled pork, veggies, and shrimp. Each flight is $15. For each drink and slider flight sold throughout June, $1 will be donated to Legacy Community Health Clinics $5 will be donated per carafe.

DESSERT GALLERY

Dessert Gallery Bakery and Cafe will have a special Pride menu throughout the month of June, with 20 percent of all purchases from this menu donated to Allies in Hope, formerly known as AIDS Foundation of Houston. Nine-inch Pride cakes will be sold for $62.50, or $9.95 for a slice. The bakery will also feature hand-decorated butter cookies, chocolate petit fours, and chocolate-and-vanilla cupcakes decked out for Pride month.

P. KING CHINESE FOOD

Celebrate Pride every weekend of June with 10 percent off lunch specials Friday through Sunday. A portion of proceeds will be donated to Montrose Grace Place.

COWBOYS AND INDIANS

Start your meal off with an All CNI, made up of bourbon, guava, and pea flower, for $14—and don’t pass on the opportunity to try the Pakora Fritter, made with cornmeal, cauliflower, potato, and onions, for $11. Ten percent of the profits from these two items will be donated to Montrose Grace Place, a local nonprofit drop-in center for youth of all genders and sexualities experiencing homelessness.

LOW TIDE

Low Tide’s “Love Wins” $10 cocktail (or $35 carafe) is made with Skyy Vodka— blood orange, Malibu peach, smoked cherries, grape ginger ale, fresh-squeezed lemon juice, and edible glitter topped with La Marca. Try their rainbow slider flight as well: $15 for colorful buns encasing a cheeseburger, fried chicken, pulled pork, veggies, and shrimp. For each cocktail and slider flight sold throughout June, $1 will be donated to Legacy Community Health Clinics. $5 will be donated per carafe.

EUREKA HEIGHTS BREWERY

Eureka Heights will host an array of Pride events throughout June, and their special Lavender Bunny Cream Ale is back for another Pride Month. For each 4-pack or pint sold, $1 will be donated to the Montrose Center. The brewery raised $20,000 in support of the Montrose Center last year. You can also buy a shirt in their taproom or round up your tab to support the Center. Named in O utSmart ’s Gayest & Greatest for two years, Eureka Heights will continue to host Pride events throughout the year.

CONNECTING TO COMMUNITY

Check out this diverse lineup of LGBTQ social groups.

By MORGAN GAGE

Pride Month offers many opportunities to connect and celebrate community, but there are also ways to stay connected with the LGBTQ community in Houston year-round. Even outside of the large citywide events, many groups around the city are creating spaces for queer Houstonians to connect through common interests, whether that’s staying active through biking or running, or finding joy in gaming—both online and in person. Check out these interest groups created specifically for building queer community.

about cars in a queer-friendly space? Houston LGBTQIA+ Car Club is the first of its kind in Houston, with periodic meetups beginning bright and early at 8 a.m. They encourage attendees to bring their “new car, old car, exotic or hooptie.” Even if you’re just beginning to explore your interest in all things automotive, this judgment-free zone is a great way to share your enthusiasm. Meetup times are posted on Meetup.com.

on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays, it’s easy to connect with other members of Houston’s LGBTQ community to stay active. For more in-depth connection, the group also has a private Facebook group, a Garmin Connect group, and a Strava group.

HOUSTON GAYMERS

PRIDE BIKE RIDE

There aren’t many things better than zooming through the gayborhood on two wheels with a group of friends. Pride Bike Ride gives you the chance to do just that. Social rides begin and end at Eagle Houston every Tuesday at 7:30 p.m., and with a Facebook group, Instagram page, and Strava group, there are plenty of ways to get connected with Pride Bike Ride.

HOUSTON QUEER PARENT CIRCLE

Parenting can certainly be a challenge, but seeking support from your community makes carrying the load a bit easier. Every second Sunday, LGBTQ parents with kids of all ages, as well as prospective parents, are encouraged to take part in this community support group. Meet with other queer parents and share your triumphs and struggles while creating community with each other. Meeting times are posted on Meetup.com.

Join the largest LGBTQ gaming group in Texas: Houston Gaymers. A highly active nonprofit community group, Houston Gaymers strives to provide a safe space for LGBTQ video-game enthusiasts through online community as well as monthly meetups. Join their Discord and check their website for more information on how to get involved.

HOUSTON LGBTQIA+ CAR CLUB

Do you own a sweet ride? Do you want to chat

FRONTRUNNERS HOUSTON

Why run or walk alone when you can join FrontRunners Houston to walk, run, and socialize? With three meeting times each week

LGBTQ TABLETOP GAME NIGHT

Maybe you’re a bit more old-fashioned in your gaming tastes. That’s no reason to miss out on connecting with other LGBTQ gamers. With frequent game nights at Coral Sword, Tabletop members are encouraged to bring their favorite games to share with the group and spend the night playing. Most of the group’s events are hosted in Katy,

but gamers from Houston and beyond are encouraged to attend. Meetup times are posted on Meetup.com.

PRIDE SPORTS HOUSTON

If you’re a fan of team sports, it’s easy to stay active with Pride Sports Houston. This sports organization was founded to provide an affordable, organized, and inclusive league for everyone.

QUEER CALIBER LGBT WOMEN

For queer women with an interest in guns, Queer Caliber LGBT Women is the perfect group. Meetings consist of shooting events followed by social activities afterward. Though their activities have not been posted online since mid-2022, the group is still on Meetup.com so you can keep an eye out for future events.

LGBT AND FRIENDS MOTORCYCLE CLUB

Maybe pedaling isn’t your thing. There are still plenty of ways to tour around with fellow members of the LGBTQ community. Houston LGBT and Friends Motorcycle Club was created by and for the LGBTQ community in Houston. Meetup times are posted on Meetup.com.

A Texas Mid-Century Master

By ANDREW EDMONSON

Gay artist Gray Foy was an American original. Born in Dallas in 1922 and educated at Southern Methodist University, he arrived in New York City in 1947, preternaturally handsome and fully in command of a mature artistic vision.

In 1948, the New York Herald Tribune praised Foy as “a superb craftsman, a young person who will someday be reckoned with in the field of modern art.” That same year, he met the man who would become his life partner of 50 years, Leo Lerman, a highly influential editor at Condé Nast for four decades.

Together, they built a golden life in the beau monde of mid-century Manhattan, cultivating a circle of friends from the artistic and cultural elite. Foy ran with such boldfaced names as Maria Callas, Marlene Dietrich, Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis, Truman Capote, George Balanchine, and Margot Fonteyn.

When Foy died at the age of 90 in 2012, an obituary in the New York Times hailed him as “an artist and avatar of a gilded age,” praising him as “a tastemaker, bon vivant, salonnier, partygoer, party-giver, genteel accumulator, and perennial fixture of New York cultural life.”

Now, a decade after his death, Houston’s Menil Drawing Institute is presenting a retrospective entitled Hyperreal: Gray Foy, part of an effort to introduce his arrestingly imaginative work to a wider audience. The exhibition features almost three dozen of his meticulous drawings and commercial art, tracing the arc of his career from the 1940s to the 1970s. It is the first solo museum exhibition for the artist, and it celebrates two major gifts of 80 pieces of Foy’s work, which will make the Menil Drawing Institute the largest repository of his art in the world. The exhibition is curated by Kirsten Marples, who spent 18 months immersing herself in the artist’s work.

Rebecca Rabinow, director of The Menil Collection, observed, “Gray Foy’s unusual talent caught the eye of some of the savviest drawings connoisseurs of the mid-20th century, but because Foy stopped working mid-career, he is not well known today.”

His work enjoyed powerful champions, including actor Steve Martin, who purchased Foy’s Dimensions and donated it to the Museum of Modern Art in New York

The Menil Drawing Institute adds 80 pieces by artist Gray Foy to its collection.

Untitled (Nudes Emerging from Botanical and Avian Forms), 1948 ➝

City. An early large-scale work from 1945 and 1946, Dimensions exemplifies the astonishing detail and mesmerizing surrealistic vision that characterized much of Foy’s early oeuvre. (The Menil helpfully provides magnifying glasses to allow viewers to savor the minute details of Foy’s graphite-onpaper artistry.)

Of Dimensions, the esteemed art critic Robert Pincus-Witten observed, “The picture demonstrates what is most arresting about Foy’s talent—a skilled, hyperobsessional observation of human figures or exfoliating flowers and fantastic particulars rendered as if he were transcribing them through a jeweler’s loupe. Such intense focus recalls the backgrounds of Northern Renaissance painting—Jan van Eyck, for example.”

Foy spent between ten and thirteen months creating Dimensions, and he often lavished that much time on his other graphite drawings. He might be paid $100 for a drawing, which made the economics of his artistic career a challenge.

A subtle undercurrent of homoeroticism runs through some of the works from this early period that are on display at The Menil, most notably in Untitled (Nudes Emerging from Botanical and Avian Forms) from 1948.

By the end of the 1940s, Foy had begun to distance himself from surrealism. “Please don’t put me down as a surrealist,” Foy told an interviewer in 1948. “I may turn out to be a realist. After all, hyper-realism actually becomes the supernatural.” This notion of transcending visible reality is a through line within Foy’s body of work.

Foy began to develop an ecological consciousness, frequently depicting flowers and vegetation. Of his work from this period, New York Times critic Stuart Preston observed, “Foy’s pencil and brush spin out a tissue of delicacy and transparency, light enough to seem to have settled on the paper like frost, strong enough to have netted in its gossamer texture enough visual data about the plant forms to astound a botanist.”

In 1961, he was awarded a prestigious John Simon Guggenheim fellowship, and took a year to create the large-scale watercolor and graphite on paper The Third Kingdom, also on display in the exhibition. Art historian Pincus-Witten called these later pieces from the 1950s and ’60s “his best work.”

But even in his late drawings, subjects ostensibly drawn from the natural world, such as 1970’s Untitled (Botanical Globe with Emerging Life Forms), are imbued with a surreal mystery that lingers hauntingly in the viewer’s mind.

WHAT: Hyperreal: Gray Foy art exhibition

WHEN: Through September 3

WHERE: The Menil Drawing Institute, 1412 West Main St.

INFO: menil.org/drawing-institute

PHOTO BY VIVIAN CROZIER

The Menil Collection is now the largest repository of works by celebrated gay Texas artist Gray Foy (1922-2012), pictured here circa 1960.

Anchoring Pride and Positivity

Meet Trey Serna , the vibrant LGBTQ voice in news.

By MARENE GUSTIN

You may recognize the handsome 39-year-old Trey Serna from his time in Houston on CW39’s evening newscast. He came here from his home in the Lower Rio Grande Valley in 2010, starting out as a producer and part of the team that created NewsFix Houston, the city’s first-ever anchorless newscast. He worked his way up the ranks to senior and supervising producer before making the jump in front of the camera as a reporter and co-anchor of a three-hour morning show. Apparently he’s a true morning person, as he is now back in the Valley as the anchor for KRGV’s Channel 5 News This Morning program.

“I really enjoy morning news,” Serna says. “I don’t mind anchoring other newscasts, but I sincerely thrive in the mornings. I try to not be that annoying, energetic guy in the morning to my co-workers because I know not everyone is a morning person. But I can’t help but be that guy sometimes. It’s also really fun for me to help viewers start their day. I know we have to report bad news sometimes, but it’s not all bad. And if I can give them a little something positive before they start their day, and help them start off on the right foot, then I’ve succeeded.”

Serna grew up in Harlingen, where he attended Harlingen High School and then UT’s Rio Grande Valley campus in Edinburg. He graduated magna cum laude with a degree in communications and journalism, and began his TV sojourn in 2008 as a producer for Channel 5.

Photo by JULIO H. GONZALEZ

“I always knew I enjoyed writing and telling stories, especially on video,” he says. “It wasn’t until I was in college that I decided to major in journalism. Initially, I wanted to be a newspaper reporter. I took an internship at a website company as a copywriter during my last semester of college. It turned into my first full-time job after graduation. But 2008 came around, and I was laid off. I knew a reporter from the local TV station in my hometown who encouraged me to apply for a producer position at the station he worked at. That’s how I got into TV news. I’ve done other media and public-relations types of work, but I’ve always ended up back in TV news. It’s where I feel the most comfortable. I love what I do.”

Serna is more than happy to be back in the Rio Grande Valley, but he does miss Houston.

“I do miss being in Houston on a regular basis,” he admits. “But it was the height of the pandemic, I hadn’t seen my family in more than a year, and I saw an opportunity open up to anchor in my hometown where I grew up. One thing led to another, and I ended up landing the job. It’s been absolutely incredible, and I’m so thankful I was able to do this. While it’s nice being back where I grew up, my home and my husband are

still in Houston. This is just one chapter in our story. I’ll be back soon.”

Serna and his husband, Johnny, have two fur babies, Cooper and Charlie, and they all enjoy spending time together while watching TV.

As he reflects on his broadcasting career, Serna admits he’s been lucky in not having to face any real discrimination for being gay.

“I’ve never dealt with a major discrimination issue—at least nothing glaringly obvious,” he says. “I’ve had viewers say things, especially on social media, that are rather ignorant or hateful. But those sorts of comments, unfortu-

nately, come with the business sometimes. I’ve never been an ‘I’m here, I’m queer, and you have to accept me’ kind of guy. I’ve also never been ‘the gay anchor’ that points out that I’m gay every time I’m on TV. My advocacy is through representation. I discuss my life as anyone else would. I talk about my husband, my dogs, my likes and dislikes, and everything about my life because I have a seat at the table. It’s that simple to me. And the more we normalize these sorts of conversations—without having to point out the ‘difference,’ based on my sexual orientation—the more change I feel we make.

“I also want to serve as a positive influence to any queer kid who may be watching and may feel like they don’t have a place. I didn’t grow up with many positive gay figures on TV, especially on local news. So, to me, it’s very important,” he adds.

Last year, Serna and his husband had a fun time at Houston’s Pride celebration. The June Pride observances are very important to Serna in ways that go beyond just having a good time.

“Pride means so much to me,” he says. “But ultimately, I think it boils down to being proud of yourself, embracing everything you are, and spreading that positivity to others.”

Keep up with Trey Serna on Instagram @trey.serna.

Serna and his husband, Johnny, with their two fur babies, Cooper and Charlie

Summer Camp That’s a Drag

Muffy Vanderbilt III discusses her appearance on the reality series Camp Wannakiki.

By CONNOR BEHRENS

If you’ve ever ventured out into the gay club scene in Houston, you’ve likely run into the colorful, high-energy Muffy Vanderbilt III. Starting this month, she’s headed for summer camp as she makes her small-screen debut in the LGBTQ reality series Camp Wannakiki

Vanderbilt, a Houston native, is the latest queen to compete on Camp Wannakiki, a streaming show where several drag queens see who can last a week at a summer camp and claim the title of “Queen of Camp.” For Vanderbilt, this is the culmination of a journey that began several years ago during her time in the theater.

“Once upon a time, I was in the theater arts,” she says. “I actually have done professional theater for most of my adult life, and I was in a regional production of Cinderella, playing the ugly stepsister. Having recently gotten out of a very toxic relationship, I started slowly inching into the gay scene in Montrose and had a realization that I could perform all the time through drag. The rest is herstory!”

Vanderbilt says that her drag name and the larger-than-life persona came from her two favorite things: Legally Blonde, and money.

“The Vanderbilts are a very rich, posh family in the real world,” she explains. “Very Ivy League. And Muffy is a vaginal joke made in Legally Blonde about a stuffy rich girl. I like to think of Muffy as a Disney princess who was raised in a unicorn-colored cabbage patch of cotton candy and Whataburgers.”

Like many in the gay community, Vanderbilt is a massive fan of pop culture and film, so her persona is also very referential.

“I love to pay homage to films and movies,” she says. “I also love pop culture and high fashion. I think our current culture revolves around pop culture, and I think the gay community in particular uses these art forms to heal and thrive since there is still so much hate in our world.”

From her personality to her love of pop culture, Vanderbilt says she knew Camp Wannakiki would be a natural fit for her when the opportunity arose.

“I have auditioned for RuPaul’s Drag Race three times now,” she says, “and it is still my dream to walk that mainstage. But I am also

impatient. I believe we make our own success and opportunities if we want them. So when I heard about the Camp Wannakiki streaming series, I watched a few seasons and thought it matched my personality and would be a lot of fun. I decided to audition and made it on my first try!”

Vanderbilt says viewers of this season’s Camp Wannakiki can expect camp at its finest.

“This season, in particular, is very elevated,” she says. “It was just a crazy shoot. I legit had to sleep on a child-sized bunk bed in a cabin with no air conditioning for two weeks with five others and one bathroom. But I wouldn’t change anything for the forever family I got in the process!”

Vanderbilt’s goal after this season airs is to continue to expand her brand, noting that Houston’s gay scene has been a great place to start.

“I love Houston, and we have a really dynamic scene,” she notes. “There is something for everyone. I am very lucky to come from a place that has such high standards. When I travel, I notice the other scenes don’t all have the high standard that Houston sets. So, I am thankful to all the legends we have here that set us up for success—Dina Jacobs, Tommy Ross, Dejzah Opulent Mirage, and my drag mom, Dessie Love Blake!”

Vanderbilt has slowly gained confidence in herself during her last few years in the Houston drag scene. “This whole experience has taught

Nick (the person I wake up as in the morning) so much about social interactions and the power of self-esteem,” she says. “Drag allows for a power dynamic and confidence that your out-of-drag body may not always know. You slowly learn to channel that power into your real life. Drag is a very powerful thing.”

In spite of the recent demonization of drag queens by far-right Republicans, Vanderbilt remains optimistic that the country will rally behind any drag performers facing prosecution, and choose love over hate.

“I am grateful that I have not been personally affected yet,” she says. “Now, more than ever, we have to stand with our trans community and our drag queens. They need us, and we need them. Nobody should be under attack for being authentically themselves.”

Going forward, Vanderbilt is focused on building her persona online and becoming a future RuPaul’s Drag Race contestant. “I’m hoping Ru is paying attention,” she adds. “I am ready to pull a Jade Jolie! At the moment, I’d just love to get to 10,000 Instagram followers!”

Follow Vanderbilt on Instagram @MuffyVanderbiltTheThird. Camp Wannakiki streaming information is at CampWannakiki.com.

Vanderbilt (center) with her fellow “Queen of Camp” contestants

Rescued Pets Movement, Inc. (RPM) is a Houston-based nonprofit providing a second chance for thousands of homeless dogs and cats through rehabilitation and transport to forever homes in communities throughout the country that have a need for adoptable pets.

You can help by becoming a temporary foster home partner.

Rescued Pets Movement

RescuedPetsMovement.org/Foster-Us

From TikTok Sensation to Pride Month Performer

Jordy unveils his authentic sound and empowering anthems in the album Boy.

By GREGG SHAPIRO

Photos by DANTE VELASQUEZ

Out singer/songwriter Jordy is on a career high. After gaining national attention via appearances on The Today Show and Good Morning America—as well as becoming a TikTok sensation, playing a series of music festivals, and releasing his debut album in 2021—Jordy’s back with his sophomore full-length Boy (300 Elektra Entertainment). Just in time for summer (and Pride), Jordy’s brand of honest and uplifting queer pop is just what we need at this difficult time for the LGBTQ community.

Jordy made time to speak with O utSmart ahead of his Pride Month appearance in Houston at Rainbow on the Green at downtown’s Discovery Green.

Gregg Shapiro: Jordy, the last time we spoke in April 2021, some incredible career events had just occurred for you. You signed with 300 Entertainment (now 300 Elektra Entertainment), you performed on TheTodayShow, and your song “Long Distance” had become a breakout hit. When you look back on that time, what stands out the most to you?

Jordy: It was such a crazy time for me. I had been putting out music for years, but all of a sudden, things were happening so incredibly quickly. I think it was a good reminder from the universe that I was doing all the right things—writing music that was honest and authentic to me and sharing it with the world. I’m so grateful for that time in my life. It was such a stepping stone.

Two years later, do you feel like you’ve had the chance to fully absorb the events of the recent past?

I try every day to live as presently as possible. I think it’s so easy to forget to celebrate the victories along the way because we, as artists, are always thinking about what’s coming next. But when I think about what I’ve accomplished over the years, it makes me emotional. I’m doing what I’ve always dreamed of doing, and there’s not a day that goes by when I don’t think about how grateful I am for that. ➝

You went to college in Boston, as I did (at Emerson College), and I was wondering if you were able to take advantage of the city’s renowned music scene while you lived there.

I was an a cappella boy! [Laughs] At BU, I was a member of the “treblemakers” and I truly have the fondest memories. I learned how to perform, how to sing in more of a pop lane after being classically trained in high school, and I made friends that will be my friends forever. Eventually, I started writing a bit and gigged around Boston and Cambridge, which was also really fun for me. I wanted to establish myself as a solo artist, and that was really the beginning of it all. I love that city so much.

Me, too! This interview is taking place while you’re in Europe, where last night you performed at the Night & Day Café in Manchester, England. It’s all just so crazy. Playing Birmingham and London already, it’s been insane to see the turnout and the people screaming the lyrics back at me. I get so stuck in my bubble of LA that I forget the music is being listened to by people all over the world. It’s so cool, and also fun to hear people singing my songs with a different accent! [Laughs] I cannot wait to come back.

Your new album, Boy, was released a few weeks ago. What was the best part of the experience of making Boy for you?

Honestly, working with my best friends. I feel so lucky to work with stupidly talented people, but even luckier that they are the people I love the absolute most—some who have been with me since my very first single. It’s so special. It was also a very cathartic experience writing about my life over the past couple of years. Growing up is so hard, and being able to write about that in the music was so therapeutic. I am immensely proud of the project, and so happy it’s out for people to enjoy.

At a time when the subject of mental health is a large part of the national conversation, some of the songs on Boy, including “Good Not Great,” “Boy (Intro),” “Hypothetical Party,” “Dry Spell,” “Love You and Let You Go,” sound like you’re being honest about your own struggles. What do you hope to achieve by sharing songs such as these? I think when I was young, I just wanted to feel heard and seen. I was closeted and insecure and so emotional in a time when it wasn’t “cool” for boys to express that. When I write music, I want my listeners to feel seen in a way I wasn’t. All those songs express very true parts of myself,

and I wanted to be as vulnerable as possible so that my fans felt less alone after listening to the record. We’re all human, and we deserve to experience art that honestly represents our journeys.

“Story of a Boy” includes your queer interpolation of Nine Days’ “Story of a Girl,” but the song is taking on added meaning as it has become a kind of anthem for the trans community. What does that mean to you?

It’s been such a humbling and emotional experience for me. The trans community is under attack right now. They need their voices lifted. They need protection. So, for this trend to happen organically during this time is incredibly powerful. At first, I thought it was cool that I was taking the original song and making it my own, which is the gay experience, but now it’s taken on a whole other meaning. Meeting trans fans at shows and hearing how much the song means to them is why I do what I do. Tell your trans friends you love them. They need it.

“luv u, bye” is a hot dance track that sounds like it could be a hit at tea dances. How would you feel if the song was embraced by DJs and became a club hit?

I would love that! Let’s make it happen!

[Laughs]

You’re playing some upcoming Pride

festivals, including ones in West Hollywood, Houston, and Chicago. As a native of the Chicago area, what does it mean to you to be performing for your hometown crowd?

Every time I get a chance to perform in Chicago, it warms my entire heart. That city is my home and my heart. And to be representing my city and the queer community all at the same time is truly a dream come true. Pride can’t come soon enough!

When you perform in a state such as Texas, where the LGBTQ community is under threat, do you feel a responsibility to use your platform as an artist to speak out against injustice?

Absolutely. Every show in those states is an act of protest. I will sing every song proudly and speak on behalf of my community without fear. We need to be loud. We need to speak up. And I am honored to do that for my community. It’s my duty as an artist.

What: Rainbow on the Green with JORDY and Z’maji

When: June 23, 7:00 – 10:00 pm

Where: 1500 McKinney St.

Info: discoverygreen.com/event/ rainbow-on-the-green/

I WANTED TO BE AS VULNERABLE AS POSSIBLE SO THAT MY FANS FELT LESS ALONE AFTER LISTENING TO THE RECORD.

—Jordy

Two Decades in the Making

Kevin England and Brian Bartlett tied the knot in Puerto Vallarta.

By ZACH McKENZIE

Photos by EVA SICA of Ave Sol Photography

When radio personality and DJ Kevin “Special K” England and his medicalprofessional husband, Brian Bartlett, danced with their mothers at their beachfront wedding reception, guests delighted in Lizzo’s lyrics for her hit song “About Damn Time.” After a two-decade courtship, the couple finally tied the knot during a picture-perfect ceremony in Puerto Vallarta. Guests are still talking about that one-of-a-kind 2023 wedding that turned tradition on its head.

The couple first met back in 2001. “I was a 21-year-old DJ and spinning at what is now Blur,” England recalls. “I went out to pick up

my records on a Saturday night and tried to slip in under the radar. When I was looking through the records, I saw this incredibly handsome dude out on the floor dancing. I was like, ’I don’t need to be hollering at anybody, but wow, he is very attractive.’”

As fate would have it, England found the perfect excuse to talk to Bartlett. “Turns out, he was dancing with a buddy of mine and I had him introduce us.”

Bartlett adds, “I was six months single and I wasn’t really looking for anything. I just wanted to go out and dance and have a good time.”

The duo reconnected at England’s brunch gig the following day. Bartlett, a California native and a home geriatric-health professional, says the rest was history. “We met and shacked up

soon after.”

Flash-forward to 2021, and England, who is originally from Delaware, decided it was time to take the plunge and propose during a trip to Puerto Vallarta, the couple’s favorite destination.

“I had no idea,” Bartlett recalls, laughing. “It was hot and I was wearing something probably less than appropriate. Kevin asked me to change. He never even looks at what I’m wearing, so I was like, ‘Okay, I’ll put on something else.’

Surrounded by friends, the couple made their way to the beach at sunset. Bartlett admits he was still in the dark when England started taking pictures. “He was like, ‘Let’s go take a sunset picture,’ which is also some-

Kevin England (l) and Brian Bartlett

thing he normally doesn’t ask to do.”

England knew the big moment had arrived for a sunset proposal on the beach. “While he had his back turned, I got down on one knee and asked him.”

The couple began wedding planning while simultaneously embarking on a home renovation. “We wanted somewhere all of our relatives could go, which [we assumed] meant doing it somewhere in the United States,” England explains. But once the cost estimates came in, the couple opted for a ceremony in their home away from home. “The amount that you get for your dollar in Puerto Vallarta was mind-blowing. I think every decision we made from that point on was impactful, yet budget-friendly,” England says. “Some of those decisions were ridiculous, like the price of laying a runway down in the middle of a pool. Totally worth it and super-impactful, but it was probably one of the most expensive things.”

“Every time that we go to Puerto Vallarta, it feels like our second home. It feels like we are included and welcomed as a gay couple,” Bartlett explains. “The community is fabulous and the locals don’t treat us any differently than they treat their other community members. That was really impactful to us.”

The couple treated their wedding guests to a plethora of fabulous activities. “The first night was a cocktail party at our favorite disco bar, and on the second day, our waiter at the beach bar set up this massive group event with 40 chairs lined up on the beach,”

England describes. “The next night, we took our immediate family to Casa Kimberly, which is Elizabeth Taylor’s house. It was breathtaking.”

The trip culminated in a wedding for the ages. “We invited everyone out to a villa that we rented that looked like a damn castle,” England continues. “When you come into this villa, you go down in an elevator that drops about six stories, and you get a view of the entire villa. Bamboo chairs overlooked the sunset, and the waves were crashing up against this beach right below where we got married. People were having cocktails before the ceremony, and then our niece and nephew walked Brian and I down the aisle.

“After the ceremony was over, our officiant said, ‘Now, sashay away!’ That RuPaul command was the cue for everyone to follow the couple up the aisle in a festive procession. “We snuck away to watch our guests do their runway walks from the view above,” England recalls.

The night concluded with dancing, toasts, and a remix of “Copacabana” with original lyrics and vocals by the grooms. “At the end of the song, the frickin’ fireworks shot off behind us,” England says. “People were like, ‘Oh my God, I’m never going to another wedding again!”

“GUESTS ARE STILL TALKING ABOUT THAT ONEOF-A-KIND 2023 WEDDING THAT TURNED TRADITION ON ITS HEAD.”

OUT THERE

HOUSING OUR FUTURE GALA ”STARS, STATEMENTS, & LEGENDS” SPONSORED BY THE MONTROSE CENTER

May 12, 2023

The Housing Our Future Gala at Bayou Place broke records with a crowd embracing the “Stars, Statements, and Legends” theme. Guests wore striking costumes inspired by queer iconic figures. The night kicked off with a VIP reception, followed by dinner and a captivating show by drag artists including Miss Conception and Blackberri. The after-party, hosted by DJ Danny Nunez, closed the successful spring gala that raised $255,000 for local LGBTQ youth housing and case management services.

Photos by DALTON DEHART & CREW

OUT THERE

EQUALITY’S NIGHT OUT HOUSTON HOSTED BY

LAMBDA LEGAL

June 1, 2023

Lambda Legal’s Equality’s Night Out event celebrated 50 years of fighting for LGBTQ rights and people living with HIV. The cocktail-and-hors d’oeuvres gathering at Ronin Harrisburg also introduced Shelly Skeen as the organization’s new SouthCentral Region director.

Photos by DALTON DEHART & CREW

OUT THERE

BLACK QUEER AF MUSIC FESTIVAL 2023

May 6, 2023

The second annual Black Queer AF Music Festival—Houston’s “Party with a Purpose” at Stampede Houston—brought in major performers including Kidd Kenn, KenTheMan, and Keke Wyatt. The innovative event, hosted by The Normal Anomaly Initiative, also featured immersive games and activities, and celebrated the launch of 14 businesses in the Project Liberate program. The Normal Anomaly Initiative is a nonprofit organization dedicated to eliminating barriers and creating new norms for Black queer people.

Photos by DALTON DEHART & CREW

OUT@TUTS: RENT

May 25, 2023

Houston theatergoers enjoyed a night of song and dance at Theatre Under the Stars’ production of the acclaimed musical Rent. The performance was followed by Out@TUTS, a reception for LGBTQ patrons and friends sponsored by OutSmart and hosted by Regina Thorne-DuBois. Guests enjoyed drink specials and light bites, and mingled with many of the cast members, including our May cover star Tomás Matos.

Photos courtesy of RUBEN VELA FOR THEATRE UNDER THE STARS

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DRAG YOUR A** TO BRUNCH

May 30, 2023

The Houston LGBTQ+ Political Caucus hosted “Drag Your A** to Brunch,” a fundraiser combatting 140 antiLGBTQ bills in the Texas Legislature, at Pinstripes. Among the attendees were several elected officials including US Representative (and Houston mayoral candidate) Sheila Jackson Lee, Judge Phyllis Frye, and Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo. Founded in 1975, the Houston LGBTQ+ Political Caucus is the oldest LGBTQ civil-rights organization in the South.

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J am e s S . Walk e r ... .... ... .... ... Wa l k e r t e x a s l a w y e r. c o m E r i c K ir k p a t r i c k K i r k p a t r i c k l a w c o m J e ff r e y D Wa t t e r s w w w. g r ay r e e d c o m ... ... ... ... ... ... .... ... ... . 7 1 3 - 9 8 6 - 7 1 1 3

AU T O M O T I V E R E PA IR S

Te c h A u t o M a i n t e n a n c e

3 7 Wau g h D r

U n l i m i t e d O ff - R o a d , L L C w w w. u n lim i t e d o ff r o a d t x . c o m ...

AU T O M O T I V E S A L E S

Fr e d H a a s Toyo t a Wo r l d F r e d H aa sTo y o t a c o m .... ... ... ... ... .... ... .

P l a n e t F o r d

R e s u r r e c t i o n M C C

2 0 2 5 W 1 1 t h 7 1 3 /8 6 1 - 9 1 4 9

S t P a u l ’s U n i t e d M e t h o d i s t C h u r c h

5 5 0 1 M ain

S t S t e p h e n ’s E p i s c o p a l C h u r c h

1 8 0 5 W A l ab am a s t s t e p h e n s h o u s t o n o r g

Tr i n i t y E p i s c o p a l C h u r c h

1 0 1 5 H o lm an S t. ... ... .... ... .... w w w. t r in i t y m i d t o w n . o r g

C O M M U N I T Y/N O N PR O FI T

A l l i e s i n H o p e A lli e s inh o p e o r g

B e r i n g C o n n e c t

B u n n i e s o n t h e B ayo u B u nn i e s O nT h e B ay o u o r g

K e s h e t H o u s t o n k e s h e t h o u s t o n o r g

D i a n a F o u n d a t i o n ... .... ... .... ... ... ... ... ... ... .... ... ... .T h e D i an a F o u n d a t i o n . o r g

E PA H E PA H o r g

G r e a t e r H o u s t o n L G B T C h a m b e r o f C o m m e r c e

H o u s t o n L G B T C h am b e r c o m 8 3 2 /5 1 0 - 3 0 0 2

H o u s t o n L G B T Q + P o l i t i c a l C a u c u s t h e c au c u s o r g

K P F T R a d i o k p f t o r g... ... ... ... ... ... .... ... .... ... .... ... ... ... .. 7 1 3 - 5 2 6 - 4 0 0 0

L e s b i a n H e a l t h I n i t i a t i ve (L H I)

4 0 1 B r an ar d lh ih o u s t o n o r g

L e s b i a n s O ve r A g e F i f t y (L O A F )

l e s b ian s o v e r a g e 5 0 o r g 7 1 3 /9 0 7- 5 3 7 8

H o u s t o n L G B T H i s t o r y O r g a n i z a t i o n ... .... ... .... ... ... ... ... ... ... .... ... .... ... h o u s t o n l gb t h i s t o r y. o r g

P e t P a t r o l T h e P e t P a t r o l o r g

P l a n n e d P a r e n t h o o d G u l f C o a s t p p g u l f c o a s t o r g / l g b t q

R ya n W h i t e P l a n n i n g C o u n c i l r w p c H o u s t o n o r g .. .... ... .... ... .... ... ... ... ... 7 1 3 - 5 7 2- 3 7 24

T h e Wo o d l a n d s P R I D E t h e w o o d l an d s t x p r i d e o r g

C O M P U T E R S/IN T E R N E T/I T S E R V I C E S

C o p y c o m

1 2 0 1 - F We s t h e im e r . .... ... .... ... .... ... ... ... ... .

C O NS T R U C T I O N/H O M E R E M O DE L IN G

M r H a n d y m a n

V C S C o n s t r u c t i o n & R e m o d e l i n g w w w v c s h o u s t o n c o m . .... ... .... ... ... ... ... 7 1 3 /8 2 8 - 3 0 9 7

E D U C AT I O N L o n e S t a r C o l l e g e N o r t h H N - I n f o @ L o n e S t ar e d u l o n e s t ar e d u

E N T E R TA IN M E N T/N I G H T L IFE

A l l e y T h e a t r e

/ 7

- 8

2 0 4 0 3 I - 4 5 S p r in g T X 7 7 3 8 8 8 6 6 / 8 7 9 - 9 3 2 8 P l a n e t L i n c o l n

2 0 4 0 3 1 I - 4 5 S p r in g T X 7 7 3 8 8 8 8 8 / 2 4 2 - 5 0 5 9

We s t S i d e K i a

2 3 0 0 5 K a t y F r w y .. .... ... .... ... ... ... ... .... ... .. 2 8 1 - 9 4 2 - 0 2 4 2

B A N K IN G /FIN A N C I A L INS T I T U T I O NS A m e g y B a n k a m e g y b a n k c o m /d i v e r s i t y b a n k i n g H o u s t o n F e d e r a l C r e d i t U n i o n H o u s t o n F C U o r g 8 6 6 / O U R - H F C U P r i m e way F i n a n c i a l C r e d i t U n i o n w w w. p r im e w ay f c u c o m ... ... ... ... .... ... . 7 1 3 / 7 9 9 - 6 2 0 0

B A K E R IE S/CU S T O M C A K E S D e s s e r t G a l l e r y D e s s e r t G a ll e r y c o m 7 1 3 - 5 2 2 - 9 9 9 9

B E V E R AG E S

E u r e k a H e i g h t s B r e w e r y 9 4 1 W 1 8 t h E u r e k a H e i g h t s c o m

C OAC H IN G & W E L L N E S S

H ave n S p a c e C o a c h i n g

2 1 24 . We l c h S t .... ... .... ... .... h a v e n s p a c e c o a c h i n g . c o m

B e r i n g C h u r c h

4 4 0 H ar o l d b e r in g c h u r c h o r g

6 1 5 Te x a s Av e a ll e y t h e a t r e o r g

Fr o s t To w n B r e w i n g

1 0 0 N J a c k s o n S t 7 1 3 -2 24 - 5 3 2 6

J R ’s /S a n t a F e

8 0 8 P a c i f i c 7 1 3 /5 2 1 -2 5 1 9

M i d t o w n H o u s t o n

M i l l e r O u t d o o r T h e a t r e

FIN A N CI A L PL A N N IN G

B r o u g h t o n I nve s t m e n t G r o u p t h e b r o u gh t o ninve s t m e n t gr o up c o m 7 1 3 / 3 3 7- 4 5 0 0

R i c h a r d D i c k s o n /G a l e n e F i n a n c i a l 5 2 0 P o s t O ak S t e 7 8 0 ... ... .... ... .... ... .... ... 7 1 3 /4 8 9 - 4 3 2 2

S h a n e T h e r i o t / E d wa r d J o n e s

8 8 8 - A Av e nu e D K a t y

G r a c e Yu n g / M i d t o w n F i n a n c i a l

3 3 5 5 A l ab am a , S t e 1 8 0

FI T NE S S CL U B S/PE R S O N A L T R A IN IN G C l u b H o u s t o n 2 2 0 5 F an n in

J o h n A a r o n O n l i n e F i t n e s s w w w j a o f i t c o m

FL O O R C OV E R IN G S F l o o r C ove r i n g s I n t e r n a t i o n a l f l o o r c o v e r in g s in t e r n a t i o n a l c o m 8 3

G A R DE N IN G /L A N D S C A PIN G F o u n t a i n s & S t a t u a r y 1 1 8 0 4 H e m p s t e a d .. ... ... ... .... ... .... ... .... ... .7

J o s h u a ’s N a t i ve P l a n t s & A n t i q u e s 5 0 2 W 1 8 t h S t 7 1 3 / 8 6 2 - 74 4 4

G R O C E R Y S T O R E H - E - B M u l t ip l e l o c a t i o n s h e b c o m

H A IR /N A IL /M A K E - U P S A L O NS

N U - C u t s H a i r S a l o n 5 1 5 We s t h

281/454-2056 Clear Lake 281/484-1186

HEALTH CARE–OPTOMETRISTS

Boutique Eye Care/Juliet Farmer, OD 1806 Westheimer, Ste. A 713/528-2010 Eye Gallery 1806B Westheimer 713/523-1279 1700 Post Oak Blvd, Ste 110 713/622-7470

Montrose Eye Care/ Paul Lovero, OD 520 Waugh Dr..................................................... 713/352-0974

HEALTH CARE/PHARMACIES Avita Pharmacy AvitaPharmacy.com/HIV Legacy Pharmacy LegacyCommunityHealth.org/services/pharmacy Scott Read Pharmacy 536 Waugh Drive 83/649-3142

HEALTH CARE–PHYSICIANS Octavio Barrios, MD 507 West Gray 713/942-7546 Gordon Crofoot, MD/Crofoot MD 3701 Kirby, Ste.1230 713/526-0005

M. Sandra Scurria, MD 6565 West Loop South, Ste 300 .............. 281/661-5901 Derek Smith, AGPCNP-BC/Crofoot MD 3701 Kirby, Ste.1230 713/526-0005

HEALTH

S h a n e H e n n e s e y, M e d , L P C - S w w w t h e s t r e s s d o j o c o m 2 8 1 - 7 2 6 - 3 0 2 7

T h e M o n t r o s e C e n t e r 4 0 1 B r an ar d 7 1 3 / 5 2 9 - 0 0 3 7

M a t t Tr i e t s c h

M a t t-Tr i e t s c h c o m 5 1 2 / 5 9 1 - 8 5 1 0

M i n d f u l i n P r a c t i c e D r M a n i z e h M i r z a - G r u b e r, M D

1 7 2 8 B i s s o n n e t S t r e e t 3 4 6 / 2 0 4 - 5 4 74

C h r i s t i n e W y s o n g

2 3 0 We s t c o t t , S t e 2 1 0 7 1 3 / 8 6 9 - 74 0 0

H E A LT H C A R E – C O S M E T I C S U R G E R Y

G W P l a s t i c S u r g e r y/G e o r g e Wa s h i n g t o n , M D

74 0 0 F an n in S t S t e 8 5 0 7 1 3 / 6 7 8 - 0 0 1 9

H E A LT H C A R E – DE N T IS T S

B ayo u C i t y S m i l e s / M a r c u s d e G u z m a n , D D S

2 3 1 3 E d w ar d s S t , S t e 1 5 0 7 1 3 / 5 1 8 - 1 4 1 1

B ayo u C i t y S m i l e s /C y n t h i a C o r r a l , D D S

2 3 1 3 E d w ar d s S t . , S t e 1 5 0.... ... .... ... .... ... ... 7 1 3 / 5 1 8 - 1 4 1 1

C o r y L o g a n , D D S

5 3 0 Wau g h D r 7 1 3

HEALTH

M i d t o w n h o u s t o n c o m

M ill e r O u t d o o rT h e a t r e c o m 2 8 1/ 3 7 3 - 3 3 8 6

O u t & P r o u d L i ve o u t an d p r o u d li v e c o m

P e a r l B a r

4 2 1 6 Wa s h in g t o n P e ar l H o u s t o n c o m

R e B a r

2 0 2 Tu am 3 4 6/ 2 2 7- 8 6 1 3

S o c i e t y F o r T h e P e r f o r m i n g A r t s

S PA H o u s t o n o r g 7 1 3 / 2 2 7- 4 7 7 2

S t a g e s T h e a t r e S t a g e sT h e a t r e c o m 7 1 3 - 5 2 7- 0 1 2 3

T h e a t r e U n d e r T h e S t a r s

8 0 0 B a g b y, S u i t e 2 0 0 t u t s c o m /o u t

To ny ’s C o r n e r P o c k e t

8 1 7 W D a ll a s

E L EC T R I C I T Y

P r a t t P o w e r P a r n e r s , L L C p r a t t p o w e r p ar t n e r s c o m

INSURANCE

INVESTMENTS

Doug Smith/Hawthorne Capital

1210 West Clay, Ste. G ...............HawthorneFunds.com

JEWELERS

Silverlust

1338-C Westheimer .....................................713/520-5440

Tenenbaum Jewelers

4310 Westheimer .................TenenbaumJewelers.com

Zadok Jewelers

1801 Post Oak Blvd, Ste. 100 ............................Zadok.com

LEATHER GOODS

Montrose Forge

3423 White Oak ................................................713/893-5002

Sir Rat Leather and Gear LLC

711 Fairview .................................................sirratleather.com

MASSAGE THERAPISTS

Faust Massage

.............................................................................FaustMassage.com

Ryan Fugate, RMT RyanMassageWorks.com...........................713/269-7926

PEST CONTROL SERVICES & TRAPPING

Andy’s All Star Pest Control

......................................................................713/732-7742

PET SERVICES & SUPPLIES

Bayou City Veterinary Hospital

4720 Washington ............................................713/343-9909

DOGTOPIA

1839 W. Alabama St ........................................281/985-5158

Midtown Veterinary Hospital

MidtownVetHospital.com ..........................713-528-4900

The Urban Vet/Dr. Eric Cagle

2625 Louisiana St. Ste D100 ...................713/903-2364

Vergi 24/7 Emergency & Critical Care Hospital

8921 Katy Freeway ..........................................713/932-9589

West Alabama Animal Clinic

2030 W. Alabama .............................................713/528-0818

PHOTOGRAPHERS

Dalton DeHart Photography

DaltonDehart.com ...........................................713/622-2202

Yvonne Feece Photography yvonnefeece.com ...........................................832/876-1053

PLUMBING

In The Loop Plumbing Services

....................................................................................346/253-4444

MET Plumbing

......................................................................................832-221-7628

Metro Plumbing metroplumbing.us ...........................................346-401-0511

U-Plumb-It Plumbing Supply

1424 Montrose .....................................................713-942-2277

POOLS & POOL SERVICES

Venture Pools

.......................................................................................713/447-9201

PRINTING/COPY CENTERS

2daypostcards.com

621 Richmond ....................................................713/224-8808

Copy.com

1201-F Westheimer ............................................713/528-1201

REAL ESTATE–MORTGAGE/TITLE

Janet Friedman/J Friedman Mortgage JFriedmanLoans.com ....................................713-785-5626

Chicago Title –Inner Loop 3700 Buffalo Speedway ................................713/418-7000

Cody Grizzoffi/NRL Mortgage

Codygrizzoffi.com ............................................832-541-1103

Cari Middaugh/AmCap Mortgage myamcap.com/cari-middaugh/............281/450-2235

Lyn Sullivan /Alamo Title 4265 San Felipe, Ste 520 .............................713/228-0801

REAL ESTATE–REALTORS

Brooks Ballard/Engel & Volkers 309 Gray..................................................................713/522-7474

David Batagower/Compass Realty bayoucitypropertygroup.com ................713/253-8609

David Bowers/The House Company/Galveston David@DavidBowers.com .......................409/763-2800

Mike Copenhaver/Remax Metro mikecopenhaver@remax.net ................713/528-4963

Karen Derr/Karen Derr Realty karenderr.com ...................................................713/875-7050

Tom Eickleberry/Pride Street Realty TomSellsHoustonHomes.com...................713/201-5257

Paul Gomberg/The Rock Star Real Estate Group ......................................................................................713-446-8810

Jason Knebel/Greenwood King .......................................................................................713/232-9712

Houston Association of Realtors har.com ..................................................................713/629-1900

Debbie Levine/Sotheby’s International Realty sothebysrealty.com .....................................713/942-6857

Lynette Lew/Better Homes and Gardens LynetteLew.com...............................................713/582-2202

Danny Pleason/Martha Turner/Sotheby’s dannypleason.com .........................................832/661-1502

Richard Ray / Douglas Elliman Real Estate ........................................................................................713-416-3931

Tom Schwenk/Tom’s Galveston Real Estate Tomsgalvestonrealestate.com ...............713/857-2309

VJ Tramonte/Joe Tramonte Realty 1802 Broadway/Galveston ........................409/765-9837

Martha Turner Properties Marthaturner.com ..............................................713/520-198

Colby Wulf/Compass har.com/colbywulf ......................................713-444-8919 1

REAL ESTATE-RENTALS/MANAGEMENT

iTrip Vacations itrip.net/hcw........................................................877-233-1195

RECREATION

Rainbow Ranch Campground www.rainbowranch.net ............................254-729-8484

RESTAURANTS/COFFEE/WINE BARS

Cantina Laredo

11129 Westheimer Rd ...................................713-952-3287

Chapultepec Lupita

813 Richmond .....................................................713/522-2365

Dessert Gallery

DessertGallery.com .......................................713-522-9999

Eugene’s

1985 Welch St .....................................................713/807-8883

Free Grillin’/Chef Michele

......................................................................................832/419-0165

Frost Town Brewing 100 N. Jackson St ..............................................713-224-5326

Giacomo’s cibo e vino

3215 Westheimer.............................................713/522-1934

Harold’s In the Heights

350 W. 19th ..........................................................713/360-6204

Niko Niko’s

2520 Montrose...................................................713/528-4976

93’ Til

1601 W Main St .................................................281/846-6405

Pho 518!

9330 Broadway, #416 ..................................832/736-9903

Riva’s Italian Restaurant

1117 Missouri St .................................................713/529-3450

Low Tide Kitchen

2030A Bingle......................................................713/360-6304

Tacos Doña Lena

8788 Hammerly ................................................713/993-6486

Urban Eats

3414 Washington Ave ....................feasturbaneats.com

SPECIALTY RETAIL

Phoenicia Specialty Foods phoeniciafoods.com ....................................832/360-2222

STORAGE

Morningstar Storage The Heights

4495 Katy Fwy ..................................................281-728-4509

TOURS

Mr. McKinney’s Historic Houston Tours MisterMcKinney.com ....................................713/364-8674

TRAVEL/TRAVEL AGENCIES

Concierge Travel, Inc

4920 Mimosa .........................................................713/661-2117

Why would you buy a cake from someone who doesn’t want to sell you one?

HOUSTON

2.0

Montrose’s newest dance club is open Thursday through Sunday and features a daily Happy Hour from 7 to 10 p.m.

2320 Crocker St, Houston TX 77006

Barcode

With the longest daily Happy Hours in Montrose from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m., this neighborhood watering hole is a popular spot. Drag shows occur Wednesday through Sunday, and the bar hosts karaoke on Mondays and Wednesdays.

817 Fairview, Houston TX 77006

Blur Bar

This multi-level dance club features an upstairs lounge and balconies, with weekly events including Travesura Thursdays and Latin Saturdays.

710 Pacific St, Houston TX 77006

BUDDY’S

“EveryBUDDY’S welcome” at this modern LGBTQ bar with “events as diverse as Houston.” The bar features cocktails, beer, karaoke, pool, DJ’s, and more.

2409 Grant St STE A, Houston TX 77006

Club Crystal

With roots going back to the iconic club Inergy, Club Crystal is Houston’s original LGBTQ Latino nightclub. Find some of Ingegy’s décor at this tworoom Latin/hip-hop club.

6680 Southwest Freeway, Houston TX 77036

Club Geminis

The newest LGBTQ club in Southeast Houston, where couples are welcome. Friday-night super show with Rosselyn D Montiel. $3 shots. No cover, free parking.

10705 Gulf Freeway, Houston, TX 77034

Crocker Bar

This comfortably remodeled Montrose nightspot offers karaoke on Tuesdays and Thursdays, and extended Happy Hour prices throughout the week.

2312 Crocker, Houston TX 77006

Eagle Houston

As part of the worldwide Eagle family, Eagle Houston is the definitive home of the man’s man. Leather, bear, or jock, you’ll find them all here. This neighbor-

hood bar has multiple levels and outdoor decks, and regularly features DJs and male dancers.

611 Hyde Blvd., Houston TX 77006

George Country Sports Bar

Regulars rule at this comfortable neighborhood sports bar with dart boards and pool tables. Sports fans can watch games on televisions, and Steak Night with chef Michele Free is on Thursday nights.

617 Fairview St, Houston TX 77006

Hamburger Mary’s Houston

This drag-queen themed downtown restaurant serves up the best in entertainment, delicious food, and gloriously yummy drinks.

1008 Prarie St., Houston TX 77006

JR’s Bar & Grill

Proudly serving Montrose for 40 years, JR’s Bar & Grill offers drag Sunday through Thursday, karaoke Wednesday through Sunday, and daily Happy Hour specials on a spacious courtyard patio.

808 Pacific St, Houston TX 77006

KIKI

Montrose’s newest experience! Award winning DJs, spectacular cocktails, amazing lighting and huge screens make for the best club vibe in town. Doors open at 9p. Thursday - Sunday.

2409 Grant St., STE D., Houston, TX 77006

La Granja Disco y Cantina

One of Houston’s favorite Latin LGBTQ bars, La Granja Disco y Cantina is open Wednesday through Sunday and features daily Happy Hour prices, DJs, drag shows, and karaoke nights.

5505 Pinemont Dr, Houston TX 77092

Michael’s Outpost

The only piano bar in Montrose offers great drinks, award-winning drag shows, and a roundup of talented musicians taking turns on the keys seven nights a week.

1419 Richmond Ave, Houston TX 77006

Neon Boots Dancehall & Saloon

Houston’s only LGBTQ country dance hall is open Wednesdays through Sundays and hosts dance classes, steak nights, bingo, and karaoke.

11410 Hempstead Hwy, Houston TX 77092

Houston’s Hottest Male Amateur Strip Contest Headquarters!

There’s always something going on at TONY’S CORNER POCKET! Nightly Specials – Call for Details Cold Beverages & Hot Guys! 817 W. Dallas 713.571.7870

Tues. and Thurs, – Sunday Nights

RENAISSANCE FAMILY CLINIC

Papi’s

Houston’s newest Latin LGBTQ club offers dancing, drag, and game shows all week long. Visit Papi’s and experience the spicy side of Montrose!

570 Waugh Dr, Houston TX 77019

Pearl Bar

Houston’s only lesbian bar—one of just 21 left in the nation—is home to a wide variety of events including weekly drag-king shows, nationally known LGBTQ DJs, and a queer farmers market on the patio.

4216 Washington, Houston TX 77007

ReBar

This full-service venue offers distinctive food with Southern flair, a popular patio, multiple bars, VIP bottle-service areas, a large dance floor, and some of Houston’s most acclaimed resident DJs.

202 Tuam St, Houston TX 77006

Sabroso Patio Bar and Restaurant

Northwest Houston’s newest LGBTQ destination, serving delicious food and cocktails in a beautiful patio setting.

5503 Pinemont Dr, Houston TX 77092

South Beach

Montrose’s favorite dance club has re-opened to rave reviews. South Beach’s state-of-the-art sound, laser light show, and world-class DJs make the club a must-visit destination.

810 Pacific Street, Houston TX 77006

RIPCORD

Since 1982, this leather bar has been a fixture in Houston’s LGBTQ community. It’s where the wild, the weird, and the kinky gather on a nightly basis—no pretense, no gatekeeping, just pure camaraderie and debauchery.

715 Fairview, Houston TX 77006

Tony’s Corner Pocket

If you love a friendly bar staff, sexy male dancers, and entertaining showgirls, Tony’s Corner Pocket is the perfect spot. The bar is open seven days a week and hosts shows like Tornado Tuesdays, Wepa Wednesdays, and Sassy Saturdays.

817 W. Dallas, Houston TX 77019

Viviana’s Nite Club

This weekend-only LGBTQ Latin dance club is home to a variety of DJs, singers, talent shows, and Sunday strippers.

4624 Dacoma St, Houston TX 77092

GALVESTON

23rd St. Station Piano Bar

This upscale piano bar with an extensive martini menu offers daily drink specials. Happy Hour prices from 4 to 7pm and live entertainment every evening. Closed Monday and Tuesday. Weekends include a full-service outside garden patio bar. 1706 23rd Street

Galveston 77550

Robert’s Lafitte

Texas’ oldest bar has been open for over half a century, and is home to Galveston’s original drag show. 2501 Avenue Q, Galveston TX 77550

Island Time Bar and Grill

Located at the historic Seawall Boulevard on 31st Street, this Galveston spot offers dancing, food, drinks, drag, and a wide variety of themed nights. 3102 Seawall Blvd, Galveston TX 77550

HUNTSVILLE

Ranch Hill Saloon

The first (and only) LGBTQ bar in Walker County offers DJs, dancing, drink specials, and drag shows. 1000 12th St, Huntsville TX 77340

SPRING

The Room

This bar and video lounge has a laid-back atmosphere and features daily drink specials, karaoke, free pool, drag shows, and live DJs several nights a week.

4915 FM 2920 #148, Spring TX 77388

COLLEGE STATION

Halo

The only LGBTQ dance club in Bryan/College Station is this sleek spot located smack in the middle of Aggieland.

121 North Main Street, Bryan TX 77803

OCTAVIO BARRIOS, MDLUCIA MANGLE, MPAS, PA-C

The Houston Women’s Group

A diverse multi-generational, multi-cultural feminist group for all women where each one defines her own feminism.

Speakers, conversation, and lunch afterward

EVERY SUNDAY • 10:30 AM

FIRST UNITARIAN UNIVERSALIST

5200 Fannin St. @ Southmore Blvd. Room 302 • Elevator accessible ~ where women learn, connect, and rise! www.facebook.com/houstonwomensgroup

Galveston Beach Rental

Recently renovated and furnished 2/1 cottage, just two blocks from the beach at 34th Street, has plenty of charm for your next vacay or quick getaway. It’s also walking-distance to many restaurants, clubs, and attractions. If you don’t see your preferred dates available, send me a message—we might be able to unblock those dates for you. For more information, use the QR Code or text Tom at 713-677-9921. Email: Fricke.tom@gmail.com • Lic# GVR 07057

By LILLY RODDY

Time to Look Deeper

The Gemini retrogrades and inner growth take center stage.

There is a lot of activity this month as some of the outer planets go retrograde. We are taking a deeper dive into finding solutions at work. We will need to make deeper commitments if we expect to see good outcomes.

Our Full Moon on June 3 in Sagittarius reminds us of the different views people have about “truth.” Our views are expanded, and the New Moon on the 18th in Gemini stimulates us to think about our youth, our friends, and ways to make daily activities more interesting.

The sun starts the month in Gemini, but enters Cancer on the 21st. Mercury, our communicator, is very busy as it begins the month in Taurus. On the 11th, Mercury enters Gemini, and finally moves into Cancer on the 26th. Venus begins the month in Cancer, but soon enters Leo on June 5.

Good days this month are June 9, 11, 17, 19, 28 and 30. Days to use extra shielding are June 4, 5, 15, 18, and the 25th. June 1, 13, 21, and 26 are extra-tense!

ARIES (Mar. 21–Apr. 19)

As the month begins, you are trying to get more order into your daily life. You are paying a lot more attention to your finances and looking for other sources of income. You children will play a bigger role in your life over the next couple of months. You will want to have more fun and not take life so seriously. Later in the month, home and family take the spotlight. This can be a great time to consider relocating, remodeling, or expanding your family. You may just want to spend more time at home! You are also re-examining your social groups, and you may be leaving some of them behind if the personal interactions are not friendly and accepting.

TAURUS (Apr. 20–May 20)

This is going to be a busy year. Two major planets—Jupiter, the planet of growth and expansion, and Uranus, the planet of reinvention—are both traveling through your sign. Jupiter will be there until next May. Uranus has been in Taurus for the last four years. You are considering a possible change in your life’s direction, including your career. This continues to be a very good time for partnerships, both business and personal. You are open to new ideas about improving your resources with upgraded systems. Family is very important this month, and a get-together may have you taking a lead role. This can also be a time of remodeling or relocation. Your communications improve in late June.

GEMINI (May 21–June 21)

This is your yearly birthday cycle of reviewing the past year and looking at future goals. It’s the time of year to focus on yourself! You are getting clearer about career and long-term security. This is a time to take a leader-

ship position at work, or maybe start something on your own. For the older folk, this may be a time of cutting back on work or even retiring. Your inner spiritual life is very active as you expand your view of the cosmos and other belief systems. Later in the month, you are shifting your direction to resources and finances. Family security becomes more important. There are lots of small jobs this month to keep you extra-busy!

CANCER (June 22–July 22)

You continue to be more socially active this month. This is a great time to reach out to friends and colleagues for emotional and practical advice and support. In the latter part of the month, you are ready for some rest and retreat. You are more sensitive to your environment, so harsh conditions could be a problem. Choose your company and events carefully. Spirituality, and finding a deeper purpose in your life, continues to be a priority. Finances are very active this month. There is a lot of impulse-buying energy that will continue through July, so watch your spending! Relationship energies are improving, making it easier to work on common goals in both personal and business partnerships. This will help you gain clarity about career goals. You will be ready to act by the end of the month.

LEO (July 23–Aug. 22)

Career and relationships are the main topics for June. You are needing to find something that sparks career passion. You may be bored with your situation and feel the need to become more personally involved. The energy for starting something on your own is very strong until next May. If you are older, this could be a time of cutting back to do something you enjoy more.

Relationship activity is very strong in your chart. This is a super month to get away from routines and renew those vows. If you are single, you are feeling more courageous and ready to step outside of your comfort zone. All Leos are feeling more energetic, so you may have a harder time sleeping. This is a super month for improving health and exercise programs, and late June is a perfect time for getting a makeover and finding some personal time to relax.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept.22)

Relationships, decision making, and committing to others and to personal goals are leading the way this month. You are open to new ideas and furthering your education, or possibly seeking a whole new path. This is the time for social-media engagement as you re-examine your career goals. You are wanting to make better use of your time and avoid useless activities. Relationships are in a time of renewal. For good relationships, take the time to look to the future. For problematic partnerships, you will need to resolve your issues before you can move forward. You are trying to find a better balance between home and work!

LIBRA (Sept. 23–Oct. 23)

You are more social this month as you try to get out and connect with friends. This trend continues well into July. You are still working on being more honest with yourself and acknowledging your inner fears. This continues to be a great time for therapy or any type of cleansing. You don’t want anyone—including yourself—to hold you back. Friends and colleagues can be very supportive with your activities or proj-

ADRIAN HERNANDEZ

ects. In fact, they can be an inspiration. If you have investments, this is an excellent time to review your portfolio. You may find some lucrative speculations. You are paying more attention to your health regimen as you feel the impact of aging this year. In late June, your career and public life take the spotlight. This is a good time to push your own agenda!

SCORPIO (Oct. 24–Nov. 21)

Relationships continue to be a big focus for you this month, but career energies are becoming more active. If you are single, it’s time to meet new people. If you are involved, this energy helps improve the quality of the relationship. If you are having a difficult partnership, this can make you hungry for something more satisfying. You are looking not only for a lover but a friend, in the deepest sense of the word. With your career, this is a time to take on a leadership role. You have ideas that need expressing. This could create some conflict or jealousy as others see their own shortcomings. This is a good time to step out on your own. You will not be very patient over the next month and a half. Moderate exercise helps to release tension as you prepare for a break at the end of the month.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov.22–Dec.21)

You are trying to bring more stability into your life. This could mean taking on a family leadership role as you see your parents more as real people. You

may also be looking to move, remodel, or even downsize. What are your responsibilities, and where are your boundaries? You are still getting your routines in place as you improve both your work environment and your health regimen. This continues to be a good time to upgrade your electronics, especially for work. Your relationships will need more attention this month, and it’s a great time to reconnect. Your creative energies are very strong this month. Make sure you take some time for fun!

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22–Jan. 19)

As the month begins, you are making your workplace more comfortable and adapting it to new routines. You may be looking at improving your electronics and also creating a less restrictive schedule. You may be exploring ways to improve your finances to gain more freedom in this area of your life. In late June, relationships take the spotlight. You need more intimacy in your life. This can be a great time to reconnect—or to solve your difficulties before you move forward. If you have children, they are growing fast and stepping outside of normal boundaries. This also describes your own inner child in need of some renewal. Find the time for play, and put it on your schedule!

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20–Feb. 18)

Activity at home continues to keep you busy with kitchen upgrades. For some, this can be the time to either relocate or remodel. You are looking for more freedom by letting go of old responsibilities. There could

be real changes happening with your extended family! You are in a more playful mood in the first half of the month. This is a great time to focus on your hobbies, or connect with others who share your interests. Later in June, you are making your workplace a warmer and happier place. People feel your “mothering” energies at work, prompting them to share more about their lives with you. Relationships are extra-energetic this month. Your partner needs some extra attention, or you may see them being much more dramatic than usual. Remind them how special they are to you!

PISCES (Feb. 19–Mar. 20)

As most of you have felt, there is a big stabilizing force visiting Pisces for the next two years. This will help with decision making, creating better boundaries, setting new relationship goals, improving career satisfaction, and making sure you have plenty of time for yourself. As the month begins, home and family are taking more of your time. In the past, you may have felt like you were an arbitrator, but now you are setting the rules and making yourself happier! This is a very good time for writing, connecting on social media, and creating more stability in daily activities. Your voice will have an impact. Pay attention to your health over the next month and a half. You are ready to make improvements there!

For more astro-insight, visit lillyroddyshow.com.

Presenting the Bronzed Goddess

Chloe C. Ross serves high fashion with an old soul.

By SAM BYRD |

Photo by ALEX ROSA | Dress by VIVA VIDALIA | Hair by KITTY KONTOUR | Makeup by ADRIANA LaRUE

When fashionista Chloe Crawford Ross takes the stage, everyone stops to see what glamorous outfit she’s wearing. The diva with the golden touch is known for her sultry presence and those can’t-miss fashion creations draped across her sinfully curvy body—a piece of art in motion. Chloe has just the right balance of fashion knowhow and sex appeal to melt hearts across Houston with just one devilish look. Read on to find out what makes this bronzed beauty a star in the making.

Pronouns? She/Her

Inner avatar? A phoenix

Home town? New York City

Drag birthday ? June 1, 2011

What got you interested in drag?

I have always been in awe of the drag legends, but I didn’t think that I had what it took to actually perform. But when I saw RuPaul’s Drag Race Season 3, I gained the courage to push through my fear of rejection.

How did you pick your name?

I wrote down five names I liked and had people vote.

Any pageant titles?

Miss Harris County America

What does Pride Month mean to you?

My idea of Pride has changed over the years. With so much overt hate for the community, it feels like Pride Month is needed more than ever—not just as a way to make corporate money in June, but as a lifestyle promoting love. Being trans is not my whole personality, but it is the part of me that causes so much vitriol in others. People are scared of the unknown, and education is always key. Being able to show your pride in being who you are—year-round—is always my goal, and not just in June.

Share some details about your drag family.

I have been fortunate to be a part of three drag families. Sometimes it takes a village! My drag mother is the legendary Tommie Ross.

She has taught me so much, both professionally and personally. Vancie Vega is also my drag mother. Although she no longer lives in Houston, our relationship continues with her constant guidance and lots of love. Grayson Chandler is my drag father, and his wife, Kymber Devine, adopted me into her family. It’s always a loving and nurturing experience when we’re around each other. It may seem like a lot, but I wouldn’t have it any other way.

Describe your aesthetic.

I love fashion. I love designing oneof-a-kind looks—haute couture with some va va voom. I get ideas from old movies, fashion magazines, red-carpet looks, and then I’ll throw some Chloe into the mix.

What would people be surprised to know about you?

I have always been a big fan of fashion. I’ve always wanted to be a fashion designer, but my dad told me to get a business degree. The compromise was that I graduated from the Art Institute of Houston with a bachelor’s degree in fashion and retail management. I was able to take design classes and still learn about the nature of business.

What was your dream job as a child?

Honestly, being an entertainer. While growing up, my family had season tickets to TUTS. The idea of being onstage seemed so magical.

Have you ever had a defining moment in your life?

When I chose to live my truth and transition from male to female.

If you could pick one celebrity (living or dead) to perform with you, who would it be and why?

Prince. We share birthdays, and for some delusional reason I felt like that connected me to him. I feel like he would know me already if we met.

Advice for up-and-coming performers? Remain humble, stay eager to learn, find an interest outside of drag, and any opportunity to get onstage to hone your craft, take it!

Where can fans see you perform?

JR’s, South Beach, and Bar Boheme.

Follow Chloe C. Ross on Instagram @chloecrawfordross

PHOTOS