Peach v2 i08 issuu

Take Me Out! The Dating Issue

Dating in the Age of Apps

BHM: The Case for Yes!

Bars for Your Gay Night Out

Screen Savor: Battle of the Sexes

10

CONTENTS

FEBRUARY 21, 2018

V2-08

PEACH ATL MEDIA, LLC 925B Peachtree St. NE, Suite 168 Atlanta, GA 30309 404.835.2016

OPERATIONS Jeff Anderson

Sales and Development Director

jeff@peachatl.com

14

8

EDITORIAL

Mikkel Hyldebrandt Editorial Director mikkel@peachatl.com Rodney Belcher Graphic Designer

rodney@peachatl.com

SALES

32

Andrea Dwyer andrea@peachatl.com Steve Tyrrell steve@peachatl.com

CONTRIBUTORS

From the Editor Nothing beats going on a really great date. The lively conversation, the growing bond, the promise of getting even more intimate later… But dating is also hard! It’s complicated and time-consuming, and quite frankly very stressful! So, this issue is dedicated to dating with all its ups and downs sprinkled with a few things that will hopefully make your dating game better.

We’ve also asked our incredible writer and motivator par excellence, Jamie Kirk, to contribute with a piece about Black History Month, which is celebrated throughout February. I recommend you read it, because not only does it speak to the importance of Black History Month in our current society, but it also encourages you to be a part of the change and to strive to make things better. Motivation indeed.

James Hicks Gregg Shapiro Tony Kearney Casey Deynton Branden Lee Jamie Kirk

DISTRIBUTION Brian Harmon

NATIONAL AD REP Rivendell Media 908.232.202

Enjoy, Peaches!

Mikkel Hyldebrandt Editorial Director

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The content of Peach ATL Media is for your general information and use only. It is subject to change without notice. The opinions expressed by any writer, advertiser, or other person appearing in the Peach ATL Media are not necessarily those of this publication, its management or staff. The information and materials appearing in the magazine are not guaranteed or warranted as to accuracy, timeliness, performance, completeness, or suitability of the information and materials found or offered for a particular purpose. It shall be your responsibility to ensure that any products, services, or information available through Peach ATL Media meets your specific requirements. Peach ATL Media is not responsible for claims made by advertisers, content of information, changes, events, and schedules. The magazine contains information and material which is owned by or licensed to Peach ATL Media, including but not limited to articles, advertisements, design, layout, graphics, and logos. No part or portion of Peach ATL Media may be reproduced in any way without the prior written consent of the publisher.

Unauthorized use of Peach ATL Media may give rise to claims for damages and or criminal offenses. Your use of the information or materials in Peach ATL Media is strictly at your own risk.

6 | 02.21.18

Last Chance!

Guo Pei: Couture Beyond at SCAD FASH The impressive SCAD FASH Museum of Fashion + Film presents “Guo Pei: Couture Beyond” – a landmark exhibition of more than 30 of the designer’s grandest, most dramatic gowns from the past decade, alongside a selection of her prêt-à-porter dresses and jackets. Guo Pei was the first Chinese national designer invited to join the prestigious Chambre Syndicale de la Haute Couture.

In her fantastical, unrestrained creations, Guo Pei imbues contemporary high fashion with ancient tradition, invoking history and mythology through intricate craftsmanship, opulent embroidery, and sumptuous detail.

Featured prominently in the exhibition is the now-iconic imperial yellow cape worn by Rihanna to the Metropolitan Museum of Art’s Costume Institute Gala in 2015 — a seminal moment that introduced Guo Pei to America’s fashion cognoscenti.

SCAD FASH exhibits the couture creations in the most beautiful and creative ways, and if you haven’t been to an art show at the beautifully renovated museum, you are in for a treat – apart from worldclass exhibitions you will also get a fantastic view over Atlanta’s Mid- and Downtown area.

“Guo Pei: Couture Beyond” runs until March 4 so consider this your last call.

What: Guo Pei: Couture Beyond.

When: Now through March 4, 2018 Where: SCAD FASH Museum of Fashion + Film, 1600 Peachtree St NW, Atlanta, GA 30309 Admission: $10 general admission, scadfash.org.

8 | 02.21.18

HOW TO BE SINGLE IN ATLANTA

By Branden Lee Branden Lee is a writer andactor now living in Atlanta. Follow Branden on Twitter and Instagram @Brandeness. and watch Branden on his YouTube channel SexxxPerTease.

T R O B I S

&

Being in a relationship is amazing, but so is being single. Better to be happy and fulfilled while alone, than unhappy and unfulfilled while dating someone else. Life can often feel like we’re pressured to pursue relationships and that being single is just a holding spot until the next relationship. But that is far from the case.

B A R

ECLECTIC

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Here are some ways to enjoy spending singledom in Atlanta 1. Fun With Friends Friends often start to get neglected when relationships begin, so it’s important to enjoy time with friends when you’re not preoccupied with a boyfriend. Brunches, lunches, dinners, go to the movies, game nights, go out to clubs, parties, be social. Enjoy time with friends. Once the late 20s hit, careers, families, and relationships often take precedence over friendships, so it’s important to enjoy as much time with friends as possible while you’re single and unattached.

2. Clubbing The club isn’t that fun when in a relationship, but can be tons of fun while single. Going out to the club isn’t just about trying to find a hot guy to go home with and looking for a boyfriend. Clubbing provides the opportunity to get dressed up, feel good about yourself, feel sexy and confident, dance, drink, make new friends, and enjoy time with old friends.

Clubbing seems to always get a bad rep in the gay world for superficial sexual reasons, but sometimes you just want to go to the club to enjoy a good drag show or being in a fun environment with other gays.

3. Volunteer When not having all your free time sucked up by a

relationship and the drama that comes with them, being single gives time to make a difference in the community. There are tons of organizations, especially LGBT organizations in Atlanta, that need help. Volunteer. Make a difference, meet new people, improve the lives of others, especially the less fortunate.

4. Dating Apps, Speed Dating, Matchmaking, etc.

Yes, being single can be fun, but it’s also important to be social and put yourself out there. Go on dates, try new restaurants, enjoy good conversation. Maybe you’re not looking for your next boyfriend, but still, don’t be closed off to the potential of a relationship if the right man comes along.

peachATL.com | 11

WHISKEY & WIENERS

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Available only when you close on the purchase of a quick move-in home in the Towns at Druid Hills community pursuant to a purchase contract you sign on or between January 8, 2018 and February 18, 2018. *Up to $5,000 towards closing costs is subject to limits and is contingent upon buyer closing a loan with our affiliated lender, CalAtlantic Mortgage or, where permitted by seller, another seller preferred lender, and obtaining title insurance and closing services from our affiliated title agent, CalAtlantic Title Atlanta, LLC. The offer to pay closing costs does not include payment of prepaid taxes, property or mortgage insurance, or mortgage installments. Pre-payments of HOA assessments are typically subject to lender limits. **Receipt of up to 50% off discount (up to $25,000 value) the costs of unfinished basements is applicable only to quick move-in homes that have unfinished basements. The combined value of seller incentives, credits and other seller contributions may exceed lender limits established for the loan program for which buyer qualifies. Buyer should ask his or her lender about the impact of such limits. Prices, plans and terms are effective on the date of publication and subject to change without notice.

Depictions of homes or other features are artist conceptions. Hardscape, landscape and other items shown may be decorator suggestions that are not included in the purchase price and availability may vary. CalAtlantic Mortgage, Inc., NMLS# 203897 , Georgia Residential Mortgage Licensee License #24225, 8660 E Hartford Drive, Suite 200A, Scottsdale, AZ; 1000 Mansell Exchange West, Suite 210, Alpharetta, GA License #68278. CAATL491

Dating in the Age of Apps

By Mikkel Hyldebrandt

So, I have never been on a dating or hook-up app. I met my partner the ‘traditional way’ while we were volunteering at a non-profit HIV/AIDS organization. Yeah, so we were go-go dancers for their nightlife initiative, so not quite traditional anyway, I suppose. Instead of locking eyes across a room, we immediately got very physically close to each other, because, you know, choreography. But sparks definitely flew.

Although I have never been on a hookup app, I do consider myself a valid witness as to how apps have completely changed the landscape of dating to a point where we now have a whole generation of people who grew up dating mainly via an app on their phone. As an outsider but also a confidant to my friends’ dating endeavors, I have seen how online dating, which was later replaced (almost completely) by mobile dating, went from being taboo to a completely integrated part of modern dating. The question of ‘how did you two meet?’ would back in the day probably require a well-rehearsed and vague story about meeting through a mutual friend because online or mobile dating just wasn’t comme il faut. It wasn’t the ‘right’ way to meet a potential partner. Today, the dating game fully incorporates apps, in fact, it is the go-to method when it comes to hooking up or dating, and is simply the way you connect with someone in the digital age. We have become technosexuals.

But it seems things are about to change again because even though apps are an excellent gateway for connectivity to other guys, it doesn’t do much for the actual connection. I have heard complaints about how apps can be a wasteful effort given the time you spend getting to know, ‘vetting,’ and negotiating with a potential date or hook-up partner. Add to that the fact that your online persona who is sparky and delightfully sexy online, may crumble under shyness or insecurity once you meet face to face. Sure, if you’re just out to get laid, your profile can set up a menu for what you offer and what you prefer, but if it comes to dating and going through the motions of getting to know someone, mobile dating is bound to fall short because of its innate sexual nature – or algorithm rather.

14 | 02.21.18

The consequence? Many have deleted the multitude of mobile dating app offerings to focus on a select few that cover their hook-up needs with the potential of meeting someone eligible to go on a date with. Unless the app is strictly focused on sex, the nature of the profiles has also changed to incorporate less sex and more intimacy. A close friend told me he had just as many cuddle dates as actual sex dates, and although the cuddling may lead to sex, the focus was simply being close to someone else and experiencing physical bonding and closeness.

Cute, but also a testament as to how the mobile dating culture has moved towards phasing out ‘traditional’ cruising and locking those eyes across that room. Flirting is also suffering heavily under the apps, because I have seen literally hundreds of times how friends have spotted a hot guy at the bar, and then immediately consult their phone to give him a woof or wave instead of an in-person ‘hi’ with eye contact.

If mobile dating acts as an extension of real life dating habits then there seems to be a gap between what the apps offer, and what we actually want. Mobile dating has done away with a good deal of romanticism and intimacy, but somehow that’s exactly what we’ve ended up wanting.

So, what do we do from now? How does the dating game move away from being an almost gamified experience to also being about seeking intimacy that could potentially translate into a long-term connection? Maybe it’s starting to flirt again, making eye contact while stowing away your phone in your back pocket not to be taken out again. Maybe it’s re-learning the art of cruising where it’s all about bodily signals however subtle they may be. Or maybe – before we know it – there will be an app for that too.

Mikkel Hyldebrandt is the editor of Peach Magazine.

Feel free to email him questions or comments at mikkel@peachatl.com.

Choosing a Trainer

By Darren Floro-Bryant

We all have our own reasons for choosing a personal trainer. Although you’re not going to date your personal trainer, it makes sense to consider what you want in a trainer and what criteria must be met – much like dating.

After looking through the personal trainer want ads and conducting a (non-scientific) survey, I discovered the most popular reason a client chooses a trainer is their personality. Everyone I asked simply wanted to make sure that they got along with their trainer. Trainers and clients can potentially spend a lot of time together and often in close proximity. In addition, clients need to put a lot of trust in their trainer, so it’s important to feel a connection and support; and the more time you spend together, the more you inadvertently get to know about one another. One person, I surveyed even echoed the interaction to be like dating, with the hopes of a long-term relationship.

‘Personality’ was followed up by ‘leads by example’ meaning, the physique of their trainer was also important. Clients mentioned they found motivation from their trainer’s look, gaining inspiration when they witnessed the work that their trainer put into themselves. Clients said they even found more comfort when they saw their trainer doing exercises or movements they asked their clients to do. Also stressed as part of ‘leading by example’ was whether a trainer could lead by being able to clearly explain an exercise, what the benefits are, and what muscles are being utilized or working.

Referrals were also high on the list when considering a personal trainer. Clients listened to their friends or paid attention to posts or comments on social media. Many mentioned the desire to feel validated regarding their choice in a trainer or a need to quantify the reasoning for their choice. Also, clients said they like feeling part of “the club; they want to feel as strongly about their choice as the recommendations they received and want to share their successes.

aspects of their training to remain fresh and evolving, again like a relationship.

Surprisingly, certification was not the deciding factor in most clients’ decision process. When questioned about it, many clients said certifications are important and made their decision easier, but almost all of them said that all of the certifications in the world do not make a person relatable. Clients consider certifications a necessity, rather than a reason.

Choosing a personal trainer is something that every individual looks at differently, and there are many other factors that are taken into account when starting the process. Money, time, convenience, specialties, availability; but when it comes down to it, most clients are looking for a connection with results. After all, it is your health and fitness that is at stake, and we all want the best versions of ourselves that we can be, right?

The Essentials on Picking a Trainer (or WTBU (Wanting to Bulk-Up) Seeks PT (Personal Trainer)) • Must be approachable, easy to talk with, and a good listener.

• Must be able to understand my goals, practice what they preach, lead by example, and explain exercises well.

• References are very important, and certification is required.

Important Questions to Ask When Choosing a PT? • Is the trainer certified?

• Have any of my friends used them as a trainer?

Would they recommend them?

• Will our personalities mesh? Will we get along?

• Do they participate in physical activity themselves?

Will they understand my struggles?

But like any relationship…

Clients want to see and experience results. They also want to be told why they are doing the exercises they’re being asked to do and why it was good for them or how it applies to their results. Clients want to see progress not just in themselves, but also in the exercises being asked of them. They want all

Darren Floro-Bryant has worked as a certified Group Fitness Instructor, Fitness Coach, and Personal Trainer for more than 25 Years. He also owns DFB Fitness and Foundation Fitness, operating out of Gravity Fitness. DFBFitness.com / FoundationFitness.co.

peachATL.com | 15

Got it Covered By:Gregg Shapiro Programmed to sound as if you are listening to one of Dr. Demento’s long-running radio shows, complete with the host’s commentary, the double-disc set Dr. Demento Covered in Punk (Demented Punk) contains 64 tracks featuring performances by acts across the musical spectrum, including “Weird Al” Yankovic, The Kipper Kids (featuring Bette Midler’s husband Martin von Haselberg), Rasputina, The Misfits, Quintron & Miss Pussycat, The Dead Milkmen, Shonen Knife, Los Straitjackets, Colleen Green and William Shatner. The distinguishing part of the compilations is that the artists perform renditions of the “demented” songs made famous on Dr. Demento’s program. Not surprisingly, two of the best are by queer musicians; Joan Jett and the Blackhearts doing “Science Fiction/Double Feature” from Rocky Horror Picture Show and the B52’s Fred Schneider doing a cover of Gloria Balsam’s “Fluffy.”

The single disc CD companion to Barbra Streisand’s Netflix concert special, The Music…The Mem’ries…The Magic! (Columbia) includes 19 songs from her show recorded in Miami in December of 2016. In addition to a pair of duets, including one performed live with Jamie Foxx (“Climb Ev’ry Mountain”), the live recording features Streisand’s live renditions of classics and fan favorites ranging from “People”, “Happy Days Are Here Again” and “Don’t Rain On My Parade” to “The Way We 16 | 02.21.18

Were”, “Evergreen” and “Papa, Can You Hear Me?” Petula Clark had been making records for a few years before she hit it big stateside in 1964. After that, she was one of Streisand’s biggest competitors throughout the 1960s, even starring in a movie musical (Finian’s Rainbow) in 1968. Also like Streisand, Clark has continued to perform and record.

Her new album Living For Today (BMG) is a blend of covers and originals. Clark’s renditions of Steve Winwood’s “While You See A Chance,” The Beatles’ “Blackbird” and “Fever” (made famous by Peggy Lee) show that, at 85, Clark’s still got it.

The fittingly titled 30-track, triple-disc album Triplicate (Columbia) is the latest chapter in Bob Dylan’s ongoing infatuation with tunes from the Great American Songbook. Divided into three distinct sections – “’Til The Sun Goes Down”, “Devil Dolls” and “Comin’ Home Again” – Dylan sounds like he’s been listening to Marianne Faithfull’s collaborations with Hal Wilner or Willie Nelson’s Stardust. Chances are, after you hear Dylan’s reading of these songs, you will never listen to these classics in the same way again. While hearing Dylan tackle standards has a novel appeal, do we have to worry that one of the most important songwriters in American history has run out of his own things to say?

Since the beginning of Joni

Mitchell’s career, her songs have lent themselves to interpretation by others, often with wonderful results. Originally released in 2007, and a recipient of Album of the Year and Best Contemporary Jazz Album honors at the 50th Annual Grammy Awards, River: The Joni Letters (Verve) by Herbie Hancock has been reissued in an expanded that now includes a second disc of additional material. Mitchell’s own jazz explorations make it less surprising that a legend of the genre such as Hancock would want to return the favor, so to speak.

Although it is far from perfect, River features a stellar list of guest vocalists including Joni herself, as well as Tina Turner turning in a breathtaking reading of “Edith and the Kingpin”. Bonus tracks include Hancock’s takes on “A Case of You” and “Harlem in Havana”, as well as Sonya Kitchell performing “All I Want”.

On An American Troubadour: The Songs of Steve Forbert (Blue Rose Music) more than 20 artists pay tribute to the singer/songwriter whose “Romeo’s Tune” was an unlikely hit single in 1980. There are plenty of familiar names among the performers, including John Oates and Bekka Bramlett (“I Blinked Once”), Jim Lauderdale (“What Kinda Guy?”), Robert Earl Keen (“It Isn’t Gonna Be That Way”), John Popper (“You Cannot Win”) and Todd Snider (“It Sure Was Better Back Then”). Nicki Bluhm & The Grambler’s version of “Romeo’s Tune” puts a nice opposite-gender spin on the song.

Recorded live at the John W. Engeman Theater in Northport, New York, on Long Island, Don’t Monkey With Broadway (Broadway Records) by legendary Broadway performer Patti LuPone is proof that you can go home again. A Northport native, and “a product

of the Northport Public School System”, LuPone is joined onstage for some of the concert by Northport High School Tour Choir. As you might expect, LuPone works her way through Broadway show tunes including “Easy To Be Hard”, “Meadowlark”, “Millworker”, “Don’t Cry For Me, Argentina”, “The Ladies Who Lunch” and “Somewhere” to mention a few.

LuPone cites Rodgers and Hart as one of her first major musical influences. Kyle Riabko, who performed on Broadway in Spring Awakening and the revival of Hair, has also made a name for himself by paying tribute to songwriters, including Burt Bacharach. On Richard Rodgers Reimagined (Ghostlight), he appears to share LuPone’s affinity for Rodgers and Hart, singing songs such as “Where Or When”, “The Lady Is A Tramp”, “Bewitched”, “My Funny Valentine” and “Blue Moon”, as well as a few Rodgers and Hammerstein selections.

Syleena Johnson, daughter of singer/songwriter Syl Johnson, has been perfecting her original approach to classic R&B over the course of several album since the beginning of the 21st century. On the suitably named Rebirth of Soul (Shanachie), Johnson puts down her pen and turns her attention to essential soul numbers such as “Chain of Fools”, “Lonely Teardrops”, “These Arms of Mine” and “I’d Rather Go Blind”. Her version of her father’s “Is It Because I’m Black?” is a showstopper.

peachATL.com | 17

The Case for Yes!

By Jamie Kirk

As we celebrate Black History Month in 2018, we are facing challenges; very similar to those of the past, some not. Once again white nationalism and bigotry are a threat to marginalized groups of people. But unlike before, more white people are realizing that they are equally responsible for preparing themselves and their children to fight injustice, as black people have done forever.

It feels like the last 365 days have been used to slowly remove the progress that we’ve made over the last 300 years. Harmful, divisive rhetoric can be seen on every talk show, read in any comment section, and overhead in any public conversation. It’s reminiscent of the climate mentioned by Martin Niemöller in his widely quoted “First They Came.” piece. It feels as if no one is safe.

Similarly, no one is absolved from the responsibility of resisting all the hatred that stands before us. We cannot hide.

Preparation for tough times is nothing new to many black people. Through the centuries, we’ve had to continue pressing on through enslavement, lynchings, and segregation. Now, we continue to do so through police brutality, wealth inequality, and mass incarceration.

which we hail. It is true, black Americans’ accomplishments have been long overlooked in this nation.

But that isn’t new information to black Americans - a quick conversation with our grandparents on the cost of integrating the education system will tell that story.

Thankfully the mainstream media is putting dollars and sense, oops, cents behind the effort of telling many of the untold stories in history. Movies like The Great Debaters, Hidden Figures, and Black Panther are all examples of the Hollywood suits realizing our story should be recognized and celebrated.

In the past, Black History Month has existed to remind us of the greatness we didn’t know we possessed. But in the era of #Blackgirlmagic and #Blackexcellence twitter trends, we see it. Black History Month is worth honoring and celebrating, but black people have expanded beyond our 28-day celebration, and it is our duty to pass the gift on to neighbors, co-workers, bosses, and alas - our children (or nieces, nephews, and cousins, etc.) that may exist in our family structure.

Black people have never had the choice to fight for their rights and the right to be treated fairly. This was a right taken away from us, and replaced with the need to fight for our rights and the need to be treated fairly. Daily, the fight against injustice is front and center and cannot be “opted-out” of. It’s not an insurance elective or the extended warranty on your car; it is mandated that we do what is necessary to allow injustice to lose its stronghold in our society.

In 2018, I believe Black History Month has an altered purpose. In addition to showing the persistence of black Americans, it provides an opportunity for white people to get even more educated not only about the contributions made by black Americans but also to give them an insight to the circumstances that led to the creation of this month. Fully understanding that the precursor to Black History Month was created in 1926 in the United States when Carter G. Woodson and the Association for the Study of Negro Life announced the second week of February to be “Negro History Week.” The week was chosen because it coincided with the birthday of Abraham Lincoln on February 12th and the birthday of Frederick Douglass born on February 14th.

Historically, Black History Month has been seen as an opportunity for black folks to stop, look and listen with a dedicated focus on the power and lineage from

If you’re a white person that has “black friends” (which I hate that expression by the way) in America who wants to know how to have an impactful role in

18 | 02.21.18

the deconstruction of white supremacy as it is now, celebrate Black History Month. And celebrate it beyond just 11 out of 12 months. We can be united in our approach, steadfast and unwavering in our acknowledgment of the contribution made by many and our commitment to liberty and justice for all; not sometimes, not when it’s convenient, not when it’s easy, but each and every time the need arises.

Black History Month provides education to white Americans who are unaware of the social, systemic and personal grievances experienced by the descendants of African slaves. The current white nationalist movement is based on hatred, fear of change and, more importantly, willful ignorance. Each and every one of us has the responsibility and the accountability to make sure children are educated in our history enough so that ignorance doesn’t grow. And fester. It starts with us and should be spread to people we touch that may need to be educated or re-educated on the history of black folks.

We need white Americans to use this month (and all others) to speak with their communities and their children and educate those in your circle about the differences between prejudice and racism. White nationalism did not develop overnight. It was cultivated through silence.

Each Black History Month exists as a call to action. It is our opportunity to study the connecting thread between the struggles of the past and the transformations of today. By educating ourselves and others around us, we can hopefully reduce the number of people we see proudly chanting hateful messages and carrying tiki torches.

Black History Month exists as an opportunity to remind everyone else that black individuals have value and black lives matter, along with all other lives.

And lastly, don’t just give Black History Month your approval by lip service. Go into an underserved area and ask what you can do. Volunteer in areas that have poor voter turn out and share copies of how the State and Local Government officials, can influence change. Model compassion and a commitment to justice at home, even when you don’t get credit for it, for you never know who is being impacted by your decision to to-the-right-thing.

Let’s all give it the old college try and spend more concentrated efforts on studying black history, and becoming more familiar with Black History Month and the impact it has on our own life. We have to continue to force change and strive to make things better. We have to come together and not allow someone, or someone’s to divide us into thinking this month is ONLY about the history of blacks, but it is the history of how both cultures have and need to continue to coexist in harmony and positive contributions to this great nation.As we celebrate Black History Month in 2018, we are facing challenges; very similar to those of the past, some not. Once again white nationalism and bigotry are a threat to marginalized groups of people. But unlike before, more white people are realizing that they are equally responsible for preparing themselves and their children to fight injustice, as black people have done forever.

It feels like the last 365 days have been used to slowly remove the progress that we’ve made over the last 300 years. Harmful, divisive rhetoric can be seen on every

talk show, read in any comment section, and overhead in any public conversation. It’s reminiscent of the climate mentioned by Martin Niemöller in his widely quoted “First They Came.” piece. It feels as if no one is safe.

Similarly, no one is absolved from the responsibility of resisting all the hatred that stands before us. We cannot hide.

Preparation for tough times is nothing new to many black people. Through the centuries, we’ve had to continue pressing on through enslavement, lynchings, and segregation. Now, we continue to do so through police brutality, wealth inequality, and mass incarceration.

Black people have never had the choice to fight for their rights and the right to be treated fairly. This was a right taken away from us, and replaced with the need to fight for our rights and the need to be treated fairly. Daily, the fight against injustice is front and center and cannot be “opted-out” of. It’s not an insurance elective or the extended warranty on your car; it is mandated that we do what is necessary to allow injustice to lose its stronghold in our society.

Historically, Black History Month has been seen as an opportunity for black folks to stop, look and listen with a dedicated focus on the power and lineage from which we hail. It is true, black Americans’ accomplishments have been long overlooked in this nation. But that isn’t new information to black Americans - a quick conversation with our grandparents on the cost of integrating the education system will tell that story. Thankfully the mainstream media is putting dollars and sense, oops, cents behind the effort of telling many of the untold stories in history. Movies like The Great Debaters, Hidden Figures, and Black Panther are all examples of the Hollywood suits realizing our story should be recognized and celebrated.

In the past, Black History Month has existed to remind us of

Did You Know...

Black History Month, also known as African-American History Month in the U.S., is an annual observance in Canada, the United Kingdom, the United States, and the Netherlands, where it is called Black Achievement Month. It began as a way of remembering important people and events in history, which have sometimes been un-recognized and sometimes not even acknowledged. It is celebrated annually in the United States and Canada in February, as well as in the United Kingdom and the Netherlands in October.

Jamie Kirk works for a software company and is a certified spinning instructor. He also enjoys yoga, swimming, bicycling and running. He aspires to start a blog about what we put in our bodies not only fuels our body but our mind and spirit as well.

Follow Jamie on IG @tysonsdad

peachATL.com | 19

THE MYSTERY OF LOVE AND SEX AT OUT FRONT THEATRE CO. PHOTOS: Sher Pruitt

20 | 02.21.18

Sign a purchase contract on a select Quick Move-in Home between January 8, 2018 and February 18, 2018 and receive:

5,000

Up $ To Towards Closing Costs* When financing with our affiliated lender, CalAtlantic Mortgage and obtaining title insurance and closing services from our affiliated title company, CalAtlantic Title Atlanta, LLC.

Enclave at Druid Hills

Gated Community | Townhomes from the upper $500s For more information, please call 404-634-4485 or visit CalAtlanticHomes.com.

– PLUS –

25,000

Up $ To

in Flex Credits**

Towards Design Center options and upgrades, price discounts, closing costs and/or temporary rate buy downs.

Available only when you close on the purchase of a quick move-in home in the Enclave at Druid Hills community pursuant to a purchase contract you sign on or between January 8, 2018 and February 18, 2018. *Up to $5,000 towards closing costs is subject to limits and is contingent upon buyer closing a loan with our affiliated lender, CalAtlantic Mortgage or, where permitted by seller, another seller preferred lender, and obtaining title insurance and closing services from our affiliated title agent, CalAtlantic Title Atlanta, LLC. The offer to pay closing costs does not include payment of prepaid taxes, property or mortgage insurance, or mortgage installments. Pre-payments of HOA assessments are typically subject to lender limits. **Up to $25,000 Seller provided Flex Credits may be applied to available upgrades and options at Seller’s Design Center, price discounts, closing costs and/or temporary rate buy downs. Availability of items may vary, including whether buyer’s lender permits such credits. Offer does not have any cash value. The combined value of seller incentives, credits and other seller contributions may exceed lender limits established for the loan program for which buyer qualifies. Buyer should ask his or her lender about the impact of such limits. Prices, plans and terms are effective on the date of publication and subject to change without notice. Depictions of homes or other features are artist conceptions. Hardscape, landscape and other items shown may be decorator suggestions that are not included in the purchase price and availability may vary. CalAtlantic Mortgage, Inc., NMLS# 203897, Georgia Residential Mortgage Licensee License #24225, 8660 E Hartford Drive, Suite 200A, Scottsdale, AZ; 1000 Mansell Exchange West, Suite 210, Alpharetta, GA License #68278. CAATL491

peachATL.com | 21

HSL MARDI GRAS AT HIDEAWAY PHOTOS: Andrea Dwyer

22 | 02.21.18

peachATL.com | 23

MORE TO LOVE BRINGS YOU DANGEROUS LIAISON AT AMSTERDAM BENEFITS LOST N FOUND PHOTOS: Sher Pruitt

PLEASE CHECK OUT FACEBOOK AND OUR WEBSITE FOR MORE PHOTOS 24 | 02.21.18

Arley is Colombian-American, he is a Branch Manager at Ansley Mall Bank of America, and he is working on getting a Master’s in accounting in graduate school. He previously lived in Paris (France), Orlando, and Asheville, but currently lives in Midtown with his husband Scott and their little hairless Chinese Crested dog. Arley loves to cook, going to the gym, and the occasional Sunday Funday with his best friends.

Arley Sanchez

Preserving cultural and landmark locations important to gay Georgia

Feb 22 – Feb 28

Star Wars: A New Hope In Concert

NonsenseATL Presents WussyBopz

Come experience the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra perform the film score of Star Wars: A New Hope while the movie is screened in HD at Symphony Hall! Costumes are encouraged!

Get ready for a night of sickening tunes from yesteryear!

Category is 80s/90s Rave, Electroclash, Acid House, and Disco Bloodbath 2000. Jams by JSPORT and Kimber.

February 22-24

February 23

Atlanta Symphony Hall

The Heretic

STAFF PICK!

The Queeriety Variety Show: The Pilot Atlanta’s all LGBTQIA+-identifying comedy group, Queeriety, gives you an old-school variety show with a queer twist jam-packed with improvisation, live sketch comedy, stand-up comedy, puppetry, and drag performances.

February 24 The Village Theatre

Leather & Lace ATL

Out Loud: Misti Shores - Midtown

Drag Queens and Leathermen combine forces to Smackdown entertain you for a night of fun with live singing and enThe reigning Miss Dixie, and divine diva of drag, Misti tertainment. $5 suggested donation at the door - 100% of tips and donations go to benefit Lost-N-Found Youth. Shores hosts an interactive game show style drag show that takes “Family Feud” to a whole new level

February 24 Atlanta Eagle

30 | 02.21.18

February 24 Out Front Theatre Company

peachATL.com | 31

10

Bars You Should Include On Your Gay Night Out

By Jamie Kirk

By Tyler Scruggs

Rather than centralizing itself to a singular gayborhood like, Atlanta’s gay scene opts for a more grassroots, tailor-made scene for diverse gay experiences. Plenty of fun can be had in the vibrantly-lit, Ariana Grande-scored, true-to-the-genre Midtown gay bars, but you may be unfamiliar with some of the other queer-friendly spots in town. And with the (potential) closing of Cowtippers and the downfall of Burkhart’s, you may soon be in the market for a new regular spot.

The Cockpit 465 Boulevard SE Still one of my favorites in Atlanta, this small, humble Grant Park gay bar in an innocuous shopping center isn’t going to be a particular hotspot in the community, but we can sure as hell try! With a more-than-competent karaoke set-up (eclipsing the likes of Mary’s, if you ask me) and friendly staff, you’ll be hard-pressed to find a queer space with breathing room and neighborly warmth like this one.

Amsterdam Pub 502 Amsterdam Ave NE The size queens in Atlanta must not be familiar with Amsterdam Pub, cause this bar is HUGE. What’s essentially an Oscar’s on Steroids regarding bar design, this tucked away bar just north of Piedmont Park has a lot to offer in terms of themed nights and a gorgeous view from the patio.

Woofs on Piedmont 2425 Piedmont Rd NE Are you a friendly cub who just so happens to be a Chicago Cubs fan? Woofs is for you. I love queer sports bars because it’s a chance to experience the camaraderie and massive positive energy sports can bring, without the toxic masculinity. Catch me there with a beer and a ballcap, but don’t bother me when baseball’s on (unless you’re handsome).

ster-straight than queer on most occasions. That doesn’t mean it can’t be taken over by The Gays though, and it frequently is! Especially at Second Service on the second Sunday of every month.

Swinging Richards 1400 Northside Dr. NW You know what I’m willing to go to bat for if you’re looking for a gay bar where you can sit and chat on a weeknight? Swinging-FrickinRichards. Although there’s still a cover fee, there’s virtually no one there other than the staff and dancers, meaning you and your friends can have your pick of table, and attention from the dancers. It’s got everything you need — music, drinks, eye candy, and a place to have a conversation. If you’re in West Midtown, why the hell not?

Model T 699 Ponce de Leon Ave NE Beneath the Beltline and at the base level of Ford Factor Lofts, the aptly-named Model T is a classic bar spot with games, food, and more. It’s definitely worth checking out for at least a drink while you stroll by on the beltline.

Friends On Ponce 736 Ponce de Leon Ave. NE In the mood for a smokey, unpretentious crowd that has great music and a no-nonsense bar staff? You’re probably already familiar with Friends on Ponce, but it bears repeating. Any visit to Friends turns into a wild story to tell the next morning, and thank God for it.

Bulldogs 893 Peachtree St NE If you’re looking for a bar that caters to but doesn’t condescend to queer people of color, Bulldogs is for you. Though there’s an irritating $3 cover to get in daily and the bar is cash only, you won’t need more than a twenty to get you plenty of drinks and a good time. It’s worth checking out, especially if you’ve never given it the chance.

The Mercury 675 Ponce De Leon Ave, 2nd floor of Ponce City Market

My Sister’s Room 66 12th St NE

Perched upon the second floor of Atlanta’s hugely successful lifestyle center Ponce City Market, The Mercury is a classy, usually quiet spot where the cocktails are as good as the conversation. With a friendly staff and a wonderful Monday special with up to half-off some classic cocktails. If you work in the area, you may have discovered your next post-work hangout.

Last but not least, the little lesbian bar that is the new host of Tossed Salad, Sunday night’s drag extravaganza previously home to Burkhart’s. If it wasn’t for the swift and smooth transition, who knows how differently the saga would’ve gone down? Regardless, it’s brought a spotlight to a great space that’s definitely going to grow in popularity thanks to its Midtown convenience and friendly staff.

Sister Louisa’s Church of the Living Room & Ping Pong Emporium 466 Edgewood Ave Although Yelp and other sites categorize Church as a gay bar, anyone who has been recently can tell you that it definitely leans more hip-

32 | 02.21.18

Tyler Scruggs is a writer and musician living in Atlanta with his partner Mark. When he’s not churning out internet content, he’s paying too much for coffee and buying movie tickets weeks in advance. Follow him on Instagram @Scruggernaut and Twitter @TylerScruggs - or on Scruff (you’ll know it when you see it).

Screen Savor: No love Lost

By Gregg Shapiro

Battle of the Sexes (Fox Searchlight), about the famed 1973 tennis match between Billie Jean King and Bobby Riggs, is that rare movie that successfully combines biography, sports and queer subject matter for a thoroughly entertaining and educating experience. First and foremost, credit goes to co-directors Jonathan Dayton and Valerie Faris (Oscar-winner Little Miss Sunshine). Even though we know the outcome (King walloped male chauvinist pig Riggs), they managed to make it feel fresh and exhilarating.

Oscar-winning screenwriter Simon Beaufoy (“Slumdog Millionaire”) also deserves his due, even with some of the liberties he took in glamorizing the story for the big screen. The fact that it’s handled with a large dose of humor, as well as sensitivity, prevents Battle of the Sexes from feeling as misogynistic and hopeless as, say, the 2016 presidential election.

Battle of the Sexes begins in 1972, when King (Emma Stone) was a reigning U.S. tennis champion and the most successful women’s tennis player of all time. Even Richard Nixon took time out of his corrupt day to call her and congratulate her on her triumph. Regardless of her successes, King was paid far below what she was worth.

When King and World Tennis Magazine publisher Gladys Heldman (Sarah Silverman) joined forces to confront tennis promoter Jack Kramer (Bill Pullman), little did they realize what they would be setting into motion. In addition to founding the Women’s Tennis Association, they were also able to secure corporate sponsorship (ironically Virginia Slims cigarettes) and stand up for themselves against the men who were determined to keep them subservient to them.

34 | 02.21.18

The focus on the personal lives of King and Riggs is what truly gives Battle of the Sexes its emotional artillery. The buffoonish Riggs (Steve Carell), long past his tennis glory days, is stuck in an office job in a company run by the wealthy father of his second (and third) wife Priscilla (Elisabeth Shue).

He’s a gambling addict and doesn’t seem too concerned that, even though he’s a loving father, his marriage is on the rocks. Seeing King on TV only exacerbates the situation, leading him to return to tennis with a challenge to stuffy Australian tennis pro Margaret Court (Jessica McNamee), whom he trounces and humiliates.

King’s story is the heart of the film. Married to Larry (Austin Stowell), who was by her side throughout her meteoric rise, King confronts her same-sex attraction when she meets L.A.-based hairdresser Marilyn (Andrea Riseborough). The sexual tension of their first meeting and the intimacy they soon explore is a reminder of how different things were for queer people more than 40 years ago. Stone’s performance is breathtaking, culminating in a moving locker-breakdown scene. The gay Greek chorus of tennis couturiers Ted (Alan Cumming) and Henry (Wallace Langham) provide additional queer perspective and wisdom.

Blu-ray+DVD+digital bonus features include three featurettes – Raw Footage: Billie Jean’s Grand Entrance, Reigniting the Rivalry and Billie Jean King: In Her Own Words, as well as image galleries.

Thank you, Atlanta, for helping brighten the lives of local families in need! featuring DJ Liz Ellis Presented by

special thanks to

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Atlanta Gay Men’s Chorus Dance 101 Innerfusion fitness the other show Rainbow trout

FRIENDS ON PONCE: NEW FACES PHOTOS: Keith Bailey

38 | 02.21.18

MIDTOWN 1

Monroe Dr. NE

14

Amsterdam Ave.

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Piedmont Park

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6 12th St. NE

18

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Juniper St. NE

14th St. NE

7

9

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10th St. NE

10

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19

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e. NE Piedmont Av

Juniper St . NE

Peachtree St. NE

3

Monr

Charles Allen Dr. NE

12 W. Peachtree St. NW

15

16

4th St. NE

8

13

BARS Amsterdam Blake's Bulldogs Friends The Model T My Sister’s Room Ten Atlanta

5

Dining 502 Amsterdam Ave NE 227 10th St NE 893 Peachtree St NE 736 Ponce De Leon Ave NE 699 Ponce De Leon Ave NE 66 12th St NE 990 Piedmont Ave NE

9 10 11 12

10 th & Piedmont Campagnolo Einstein's F.R.O.G.S

clubs 13 Atlanta Eagle

306 Ponce De Leon Ave NE

306 Ponce De Leon Ave NE

14 Urban Body Fitness 500 Amsterdam Ave NE

spa/bath 15 Flex Spa

40 | 02.21.18

991 Piedmont Ave NE 980 Piedmont Ave NE 1077 Juniper St NE 931 Monroe Cir NE

fitness

retail 8 Barking Leather

4

Ponce De Leon Ave. NE

Ponce De Leon Ave. NE

1 2 3 4 5 6 7

Ponce De Leon Pl. NE

Spring St. NW

17

76 4th St. NW

16 17 18 19

G’s Midtown Henry’s Joe's on Juniper La Hacienda

219 10th St NE 132 10th St NE 1049 Juniper St NE 900 Monroe Dr NE

billards/Darts drag dancers leather non-smoking area Patio

www.SavedAndGay.com NEW COVENANT Church of Atlanta

404.929.1400

Cheshire 23

ansley 21

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BARS 2043 Cheshire Bridge Rd 1086 Alco St NE 1931 Piedmont Cir NE 2425 Piedmont Rd NE

Dining 24 Las Margaritas 25 Roxx

1842 Cheshire Bridge Rd 1824 Cheshire Bridge Rd 805 Lambert Dr. NE, Suite A 2205 Cheshire Bridge Rd

clubs 28 Heretic 29 Jungle

2069 Cheshire Bridge Rd 2115 Faulkner Rd NE

Fitness 30 Gravitee Fitness

2201 Faulkner Rd NE

Spa / bath 31 Manifest 4 U 42 The Den

32 33 34 35 36

Burkhart's Felix's The Hideaway Mixx Oscar's

2103 Faulkner Rd NE 2135 Liddell Drive NE

1492 Piedmont Ave NE 1510 Piedmont Ave NE 1544 Piedmont Ave NE 1492 Piedmont Ave NE 1510 Piedmont Ave NE

Dining 37 Cowtippers 38 Eclectic Bistro

Retail 26 Barking Leather 27 Southern Nights

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1600 Piedmont Ave NE 1425 Piedmont Ave NE

Retail 39 Boy Next Door 1447 Piedmont Ave NE 40 Brushstrokes/Pleasures 1510 Piedmont Ave NE

Fitness 41 Equilibrium Fitness

1529 Piedmont Ave, Suite L

NOT SHOWN

The Cockpit Atlanta Mary's Sister Louisa’s Church Swinging Richards Lips Atlanta

465 Boulevard SE 1287 Glenwood Ave SE 466 Edgewood Ave SE 1400 Northside Dr NW 3011 Buford Hwy NE

A snapshot of Gay Atlanta’s favorite destinations. View their ads in Peach ATL & visit their websites for weekly event listings.

Bars & Clubs

OSCAR’S

MIDTOWN

1510 Piedmont Ave NE

AMSTERDAM 502 Amsterdam Ave. NE

EAST ATLANTA, GRANT PARK & EDGEWOOD

ATLANTA EAGLE

THE COCKPIT

amsterdamatlanta.com

atlantaeagle.com 306 Ponce De Leon Ave NE

BLAKE’S ON THE PARK blakesontheparkatlanta.com 227 10th St NE

BULLDOGS 893 Peachtree St NE

FRIENDS NEIGHBORHOOD BAR friendsonponce-atl.com 736 Ponce De Leon Ave NE

MODEL T modeltatlanta.com 699 Ponce De Leon Ave NE

MY SISTER’S ROOM mysistersroom.com

oscarsatlanta.com

thecockpit-atlanta.blogspot.com 465 Boulevard SE

MARY’S marysatlanta.com 1287 Glenwood Ave SE

SISTER LOUISA’S CHURCH sisterlouisaschurch.com 466 Edgewood Ave SE

SWINGING RICHARDS swingingrichards.com 1400 Northside Dr NW

Dining MIDTOWN

66 12th St NE

10TH & PIEDMONT

TEN ATLANTA

communitashospitality.com

DEKALB LIPS ATLANTA atldragshow.com 3011 Buford Hwy NE

Retail MIDTOWN BARKING LEATHER AFTER DARK barkingleather.com 306 Ponce De Leon Ave NE

CHESHIRE BARKING LEATHER barkingleather.com 805 Lambert Dr NE

SOUTHERN NIGHTS VIDEO 2205 Cheshire Bridge Rd NE

ANSLEY BOY NEXT DOOR MENSWEAR boynextdoormenswear.com 1447 Piedmont Ave NE

GCB & PLEASURES

tenatlanta.com

991 Piedmont Ave NE

brushstrokesatlanta.com

990 Piedmont Ave NE

EINSTEIN’S

1510 Piedmont Ave. NE

einsteinsatlanta.com 1077 Juniper St NE

Fitness

FROGS CANTINA

MIDTOWN

CHESHIRE HERETIC hereticatlanta.com 2069 Cheshire Bridge Road

frogsmidtown.com 931 Monroe Dr

G’S BJ ROOSTERS bjroosters.com

communitashospitality.com 219 10th St NE

URBAN BODY FITNESS urbanbodyfitness.com 500 Amsterdam Ave NE

CHESHIRE

2043 Cheshire Bridge Road NE

HENRY’S

OPUS 1

132 10th St NE

graviteeatl.com

JOE’S ON JUNIPER

2201 Faulkner Rd NE

joesonjuniper.com 1049 Juniper St NE

Spas/Baths/Adult

LA HACIENDA

MIDTOWN

1086 Alco St NE

TRIPPS 1931 Piedmont Circle N

WOOFS woofsatlanta.com

henrysatl.com

lahaciendamidtown.com

GRAVITEE FITNESS

900 Monroe Dr NE

FLEX SPA

ANSLEY

CHESHIRE

76 4th St NW

BURKHART’S

LAS MARGARITAS

CHESHIRE

lasmargaritasmidtown.com

MANIFEST 4U manifest4u.org

2425 Piedmont Road NE

burkharts.com 1492 Piedmont Ave NE

FELIX’S 1510 Piedmont Ave NE

THE HIDEAWAY

1842 Cheshire Bridge Rd NE

ROXX 1824 Cheshire Bridge Rd NE

1544 Piedmont Ave NE

ANSLEY

MIXX

COWTIPPERS

mixxatlanta.com 1492 Piedmont Ave NE

42 | 02.21.18

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flexspas.com

2103 Faulkner Rd NE

THE DEN thedenatlanta.com 2135 Liddell Drive NE

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t ha nks T H A N KS TO AL L OF OUR F RIEN DS A N D S P O N S O R S! S EE Y ’AL L N EXT YEA R !

ATLANTA PRIDE FESTIVAL Oct. 13-14, 2018 | atlantapride.org

10 THINGS YOU MUST DO WHEN YOU’RE SINGLE

‘CAUSE YOU’RE FREE TO DO WHAT YOU WANT TO DO

1

2

3

4

5

Don’t fall too fast

6

Reconnect with old friends

7

Take time to get in shape

8

Learn about commitment from long-term couples

9

Find out what makes you happy

Travel by yourself

Focus on your career

Take a trip with your best friend

Meet new people

46 | 02.21.18

10

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Text your Peach Pits to 256-60-PEACH, or e-mail mikkel@PeachATL.com Illustrations by: Jerel Ely

It’s only a matter of time before bars start serving Tide Pods shots

Asking for a friend: Do I need to read up on things before watching Hamilton? #rustyhistory

Him (at the gym): What exactly is that exercise good for?

Can we please retire the phrase ”living your best life”? It’s not like you’re choosing an outfit or picking out an avocado.

Me: I don’t know. I just do it because I get to stick my butt out

I only like Valentine’s Day, ‘cause if you say it backwards it sounds remarkably like ‘chocolate’

That face-morph app on Facebook has me looking like I’m the killer in Scream Sometimes, I’m shocked at the smart things I say. Other times I try to get out of the car with my seat belt on

48 | 02.21.18

ARIES (MAR. 21 - APR. 19)

LIBRA (SEP. 23 - OCT. 22)

You’ll need to come up with unique ways to approach a hectic workday. Drinking plenty of coffee is one solution, as is exercising before heading to work. But your best tactic could be staying in bed, and leaving the mountain of headaches for your coworkers to deal with.

Repeatedly striking out with men recently may have you feeling depressed. Cheer up mate, because it’s the dawning of a whole new day. If you act like a desperate jerk, you’re only going to attract desperate jerks, so accentuate the positive and see what happens.

TAURUS (APR. 20 - MAY 20)

SCORPIO (OCT. 23 - NOV. 21)

You will be turtle-like today, slow moving and meticulous. Too bad the day will start in overdrive and only get faster from there. You’ll have to ramp up as quickly as possible. You know what happens when the turtle tries to move into the fast lane.

The boss will be in a good mood today, an opportune time to sell him some of your ideas. You’ll be amazed at how easy that will be, and he’ll give you the green light on all of them. But hopefully it wasn’t the Prozac speaking, and he remembers it tomorrow.

GEMINI (MAY 21 - JUN. 20)

SAGITTARIUS (NOV. 22 - DEC. 21)

Curb your enthusiasm if a friend approaches you with an interesting business proposition today.

Look at his plans from all angles, but remember that business can be like dating. You may find someone who looks attractive, but you’ll only wind up getting screwed, and not in a way you’d like.

Recent overspending may have left your finances in a weakened and pitiful state. Tighten that belt strap today, and get frugal. You may have to return some favors if you want people to help you out, and hopefully some of them won’t involve taking off your pants.

CANCER (JUN. 21 - JUL. 22)

CAPRICORN (DEC. 22 - JAN. 19)

Difficulties will arise at work today, but you’ll handle them with the poise of a miracle worker. It’ll be like you have a magic wand and those problems will instantly disappear. Now where was that wand when you needed it last week?

The high energy with which you’ll greet the day will be countered by slow moving coworkers. You won’t have the patience for their sluggishness, and you’ll tell them so. This won’t make them work any faster, and will cast you as the office pariah for the remainder of the day, if not the week.

LEO (JUL. 23 - AUG. 22)

AQUARIUS (JAN. 20 - FEB. 18)

You’ll try to make a good impression with a new acquaintance today. But your massive ego may have him running in the other direction. Toning it down a bit could have you figuring out how to lure him back, and why it is you have so few friends.

Despite your best laid plans, today will be one disaster after another. You won’t be able to figure out why that is, but don’t try to fight it. Go with the flow and you’ll get though this difficult day, but expect frustration and a headache that will feel like your brain is caught in a vice.

VIRGO (AUG. 23 - SEP. 22)

PISCES (FEB. 19 - MAR. 20)

The dating game can be played anywhere, even at work. Fix your eyes on coworkers who may be looking at you. Hopefully those colleagues will be guys who play for the same team. Otherwise you may have some ‘splainin’ to do.

You may have to rely on favors from friends in high places today. Being beholden to others is not a comfortable place for you, because there’s no telling what they’ll expect in return. So keep your integrity intact, and don’t do anything that involves farm animals, a leather thong and a blender.

50 | 02.21.18

WHAT happened was . . .

What Happened Was...

Trouble in the love department? With sex? Or just people in general? Send us your queries, questions, and problems, and we’ll give you the answers served straight up and with a little ice.

I want to go on more dates, but I have a hard time meeting guys when I go out with my friends or to bars. And I refuse to do the online or app thing because I want to be able to say I met my guy in the right way.

Sincerely Real Connections Dear Real Connections I don’t know what decade you just climbed out of, but you have got to get with the times. In case you haven’t noticed, meeting guys online and perhaps having that connection grow into a beautiful relationship is not something that is taboo anymore. It is a valid and fully acceptable way of meeting guys in this day and age. Sure, some apps a more about hooking up but you will find plenty of options and plenty of profiles where sex isn’t the first thing that is being looked for. Think of an app as a pretty accurate vetting tool: you can establish initial connection and find out if you are somewhat compatible through the messages. With a little common sense, you can weed out the worst of them just by engaging in a simple chat. Sure, you’ll find your assholes, but hey, that’s dating regardless where you meet your Mr. Right or Not-Quite. So drop the notion of meeting someone the right way, you will only limit yourself and definitely not go on more dates.

that you need things to change. When it comes to dating, it can be more complicated, but think about switching up the locations of your daily routine – gym, grocery store, bar, etc. – so you can get different energy than the one you’re receiving right now. Or – and hold on for this one – sometimes life requires more drastic measures! Maybe a move to a new city could be for you. It sounds like you could even have opportunities with your current employer in other locations? A fresh start, a new outlook on life, a chance to meet new people that can become friends, lovers, and perhaps partners. Moving is never easy, but maybe it is time for you to weigh the pros and cons of staying or going?

I’m dating a man that’s older than me, and we are on wildly different income levels – I’m in school, and he is early retired and very wealthy – which hasn’t been a problem. Until recently.

Granted, he picks up the check much more often than me, and we have been on a few trips financed entirely by him, but I try to contribute with what and when I can. But just a few days ago, he was going on a trip, and he asked me to housesit for him. When I told him I couldn’t do it, he said that this would make up for some of all the things he had paid for so far. It made me feel terrible, and I was shocked that he would think I was indebted to him. So, now I don’t know what to do. Is he my sugar Daddy all of a sudden?

Sincerely Sweet As Sugar Baby Dear Sweet As Sugar Baby

I feel like Atlanta has just about chewed me up and spit me out. Not so much workwise – I have a great job with a big telecom company – but dating and guys have really given me a hard time. I have met some great guys that have used me and hurt me in the end. I feel like my friend’s circle is becoming increasingly complicated and people are prone to gossip and intrigue instead of true connections. I feel far removed from my roots and family, and even though I have a busy social life, I feel less and less connected to the people around me. I have really tried to make close friends and find someone to be in a relationship with, but I’m not succeeding.

What can I do to change my attitude?

All relationship have structures that resemble power struggles, but none is as evident as the ‘income inequality’ power struggle that you are experiencing right now. Why? Because the power has just shifted, so you feel like you’re the less fortunate and a purchased prize rather than an equal partner. Your boyfriend has no right to make you feel that way, and you need to let him know that. Even though it shouldn’t be dollar for dollar, you need to find a way where you both feel you contribute to the union – if he doesn’t understand that, well, then there’s a real problem in your relationship that may be difficult to overcome long-term.

Sincerely Detaché Dear Detaché Sometimes life has a way of disconnecting itself from oneself, and it can be tough to cope with. It sounds like you have been through it already, and that you feel a little hopeless about your situation. Either you do one more concerted effort to let your friends know how you feel, and

52 | 02.21.18

NEED ANSWERS? REACH OUT TO US, AND YOU WILL GET THEM! SEND YOUR BURNING QUESTIONS VIA OUR EDITOR AT MIKKEL@PEACHATL.COM.