Peach v2 i11 issuu

All the

YES!

Weddings, Vows, and Advice

Screen Savor: Love Simon

NGIT: Selfishly Single

Like a Virgin: How to Keep It Pure

CONTENTS MARCH 14, 2018

V2-11

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

34

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

CONTRIBUTORS

From the Editor Nine and half months after an NYE proposal, we finally arrived at the day where we were getting married. Months of planning and a few weeks of hectic preparation finally came to fruition. It was a lot, no lies. A lot of attention, a lot of money, a lot of work - but it was also a lot of love that not only celebrated us as a couple but tied our family and friends even closer to us. A truly magical day that will never be forgotten.

For this issue, we have asked Atlanta couples to share their wedding stories of proposals and preparations for the big day - and if you’re planning to tie the know, they even offer some sound advice on the best wedding devising.

My husband, Max, and I are now coming up on our 12 ½-year wedding anniversary (which by European standard is copper, halfway to silver) and we will no doubt recount that special day many years ago where we said YES to all of it!

Scott King Jamie Kirk Branden Lee Tyler Scruggs Gregg Shapiro

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 | 03.14.18

The Celebrating David Bowie Tour More than just a salute, the Celebrating David Bowie tour keeps Bowie’s music alive with musicians who worked closely with him throughout his career and other top musicians greatly influenced by him.

The rotating ensemble, with world-class multi-instrumentalists changing song to song, will perform a show highlighting elements like pop culture experimentation, art, fashion, science and futurism that all influenced Bowie - and which Bowie, in turn, influenced back.

The Celebrating David Bowie full band features key members of David Bowie’s bands including Mike Garson (keys/CdB band leader), Earl Slick (guitar), Gerry Leonard (guitar) and Carmine Rojas (bass), along with vocalist Bernard Fowler, who is known for his work with The Rolling Stones. Garson was Bowie’s longest and most frequent band member, having performed together for both David’s first and last concerts in the United States as well as at 1,000 concerts around the globe.

For more info on additional guests, surprise appearances, and ticket sales, please visit CelebratingDavidBowie.com.

The What, When and Where!

What: The Celebrating David Bowie Tour.

When: Sunday, March 18 Where: Buckhead Theatre, 3110 Roswell Rd NE, Atlanta, GA 30305 Tickets: Starting at $36.50 at celebratingdavidbowie.com

Photo: Jamie Trumper [Photo Credit: Garson at the Celebrating David Bowie] 8 | 03.14.18

NEW GAY IN TOWN: Selfishly Single

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.

10 | 03.14.18

Before my ex, I used to say “single is all I know.” I’d been single my entire life before my last relationship. Never had to answer to anyone. Never had to compromise. Never had to worry how my actions impacted whoever I was seeing.

Guys were disposable. Always coming and going. When one broke my heart, “on to the next one” was my motto.

There was always a next one. There always has to be.

I’ve only lived in Atlanta 8 months, and I spent the majority of that time in a relationship. So just being in Atlanta reminds me of my ex. Being here reminds me of who I was when I was in a relationship. I definitely changed.

I definitely evolved. I discovered new sides to myself. I discovered how to compromise, how to be selfless, how to take into account that it’s not just about me anymore. Relationships are teamwork. Which is also what I struggled most with while in a relationship.

My ex accused me of being selfish.

Selfish because I’d get snappy when in a bad mood. Selfish because I never wanted to have as much anal sex as he craved. Selfish because I wasdiscussing our relationship in my writing and blogs much to his chagrin.

I’m a Scorpio, an only child, and a spoiled brat. I know I’m selfish. I also was selfless more than I’d ever been while in a relationship. I never imagined I’d have to go through being the support system of someone that was disowned by their family for their sexuality or helping a partner deal with feeling suicidal.

Yet I did it. I helped the person, I loved, through it.

It does feel a bit ridiculous to be dumped for being “selfish” because of trivial things like bad moods, lack of sex, and sharing my life stories with the world, when I was there for my ex in life and death situations.

When I stuck by his side when he had nothing. No job, no car, no money, nowhere to live. Nothing.

That’s life. No one owes you their love. Love is fleeting. Which is why it’ important to be selfish in relationships. Never choose a man over what you love, because that man’s love for you isn’t guaranteed forever.

I’m not giving up my love of writing about my life, sexuality, and relationships because a guy doesn’t like what I have to say. That man is temporary in my life, but my history is forever.

I’m not going to give up my body to a man that I can’t even rely on to go a month without breaking up with me whenever he’s upset about something. Relationships are about

trust and commitment, and the sex I enjoy most is with someone I trust and feel connected to. It’s impossible to have that connection when the relationship ends every few weeks.

I’m not going to give up being entitled to a bad day and being in a bad mood now and then, because a guy can’t handle it. Especially when I was there to help my ex through bad times, and when I didn’t know if he was even going to make it out alive. It’s overwhelming to have to not only deal with your own life problems but in a relationship take on someone else’s life problems as well. Sometimes that stress will get you down, but you have to overcome it on your own.

My ex ended the relationship because I was too “selfish,” so now I’m single again. It’s scary. I liked being in a relationship, but I also love my freedom back. I feel like so much stress has been lifted from my life.

A burden has been discarded, and I have my independence back. I look forward to loving again, but for now, I’m enjoying getting to be selfish. I can do whatever I want, and only have to worry about myself. Being selfishly single feels amazing!

peachATL.com | 11

friday, may 4

jack white

david byrne • fleet foxes • courtney barnett • japandroids franz ferdinand • jimmy eat world • the black angels • rival sons the brian jonestown massacre • waxahatchee • ezra furman • the frights lillie mae • marlon williams • rolling blackouts coastal fever

the ghost of paul revere • welles • the war and treaty l.a. witch • liz brasher • *repeat repeat • amasa hines

saturday, may 5

queens stone age OF THE

the war on drugs • cake • manchester orchestra • matt and kim the distillers • parquet courts • circa survive • greta van fleet chicano batman • andrew w.k. • jacob banks • torres • broncho • bully charly bliss • mikky ekko • bayonne • the night game• teenage wrist the sherlocks • stop light observations • sun seeker

tickets on sale now at

SHAKYKNEESFESTIVAL.COM

the national

sunday, may 6

tenacious d • vance joy • nathaniel rateliff & the night sweats Lord huron • the voidz • all time low • black rebel motorcycle club alvvays • sir sly • the menzingers • basement • lukas nelson and promise of the real parcels • alice merton • mt. joy • the wild reeds • post animal • frankie rose

marshmello

friday, may 11

dillon francis • ludacris • g jones • herobust • quinn xcii london on da track • space jesus • minnesota • manic focus

CENTRAL PARK

atlanta, georgia

marvel years • thriftworks • buku • jack harlow

zedd

saturday, may 12

excision • playboi carti • san holo • borgore • whethan • K?D shiba san • ookay [live] • wolfgang gartner • bonnie x clyde louis futon • the him • bleep bloop • phantoms kidswaste • loosid • halogen • vandal rose

kygo

sunday, may 13

seven lions • louis the child • kayzo • troyboi • tokimonsta autograf • yehme2 • medasin • brohug • ofenbach • dr. fresch unlike pluto • billy kenny • parker • midnite panda

tickets on sale now at

SHAKYBEATSFESTIVAL.COM

Hosted by

YES To All of It!

By Mikkel Hyldebrandt

Whether you’re into fairytale nuptials or a quick trip to city hall to get hitched, wedding season is here! Peach spoke to some happy couples about the wedding process and asked their best advice if you’re planning to exchange rings this spring or summer.

Buzz Busbee & Rodney Foster

What was your wedding like?

They met within two months of moving from Atlanta to Seattle independently of each other. They have been married since July 2016. Buzz is the owner of a branding design studio & Creative Director of ABETTERBUZZ Brand Goods. Rod works for SAP Concur’s Global Business Transformation PMO Group.

We got married in Gas Works Park on Lake Union overlooking Seattle.

That’s where we went on our first date in 2008. The ceremony was picnic style, and we had about 70 friends and family attend. Following that, we had an amazing sunset dinner reception at Westward, a waterfront restaurant in Seattle.

Who proposed?

Our Advice for Planning a Wedding

Rodney proposed in 2015 in Sitges, Spain. We were walking through town to dinner, when he stopped and proposed just outside of the Iglesia de Sant Bartomeu in Santa Tecla.

Invest in finding and hiring the right wedding planner… it’s well worth the money.

Warren Schmitt & Taylor Tisdale The couple was legally married in 2016 in Spartanburg, SC. They met at work where lunches turned into dinners and then into an 18-year relationship. The couple doesn’t work together anymore though - Warren manages recruitment for ADP, and Taylor leads a business line in commercial real estate for JLL.

Who proposed?

Warren proposed to Taylor on December 31, 2015 at Il Localino just before midnight! Everyone in the restaurant cheered.

What was your wedding like?

We had a small group of about 60 people attend an outdoor ceremony at Piedmont Park. The reception was held at Magnolia Hall in the Park.

Our Advice for Planning a Wedding Be patient, as last-minute glitches always happen! Our wedding was about love, and we wanted our guests to have a great time. Also, a wedding planner is essential!

Jim Farmer and Craig Hardesty Jim is the man behind Out On Film, the Atlanta LGBT film festival, and Craig is HR Manager at McGuireWoods. The couple met on gay.com and were married in the summer of 2015. Craig proposed after the couple had watched the news about the legalization of gay marriage evolve.

Our Advice for Planning a Wedding Our advice is to do what is best for you, not what you are traditionally supposed to be and make sure you have fun in the process. We had no idea what was going to happen in the state moving forward, and we wanted to do this before there was any motion to deny it.

14 | 03.14.18

Phil Beechler & Ryan Lynch

What was your wedding like?

Phil and Ryan were friends for years before they started dating. They met in Charlotte through mutual friends and have now been married for five months. Phil works as a paralegal and Ryan is a bartender at Woofs.

We married on Pride Saturday last year and had a giant reception in the park. Rita Ora asked us to come on stage because of the giant “Mr. & Mr.” balloons - unfortunately, we were too far away to make it.

Who proposed?

Our Advice for Planning a Wedding

I would love to say that it was a giant romantic gesture, but that’s not the kind of guys we are.

We were watching TV on a Friday night, and I asked Ryan if he’d like to go down to the courthouse - so, I got down on one knee and asked.

We tailored our wedding to fit us - it was simple, straightforward, and all about the love that we have for each other.

Daniel Brennan & Laurence Brennan Photo: Tom Thomas The relationship started with a ‘hello’ on a dating app, and the couple has now been married since December 2016 with a ‘follow-up’ and traditional Jewish wedding in October 2017. Laurence is the operations manager at Real Tall Real Estate, and Daniel is an administrator for the U.S. Attorney’s Office.

Who Proposed?

As the sun set on a beach in Florida, I (Daniel) started singing a song to Laurence about how much I loved him, and got down on one knee and asked if he would be my husband. He said yes, and I then pulled out an identical ring for myself. Without missing a beat, he took the ring, got down on his knee and proposed to me as well. We both cried and then, like all good Jewish boys, called our mothers.

What was your wedding like?

The first one at the Temple on Peachtree was small and personal - and this one was our favorite. The second our big, gay, traditional, Jewish ceremony - was held on the banks of the Chattahoochee and had all of the trappings of a Jewish wedding complete with a chuppah, rabbi and lots of Hebrew.

Our Advice for Planning a Wedding’ Good communication, kindness for each other and patience with the process goes a long way to have the day you want to have for yourselves.

William Treadwell & Jesse Lirette Photo: Li Su The relationship started out as acquaintances on Facebook and evolved into a now 8-year relationship. William and Jesse have been married for a little over four years now.

William is Senior Director of Creative for the HQ of Floor & Décor, and Jesse is the General Manager and Director of Sales and Events at Southern Exchange.

Who Proposed?

Jesse proposed on my birthday at the top of the Westin. On Jesse’s birthday I surprised him with prepaid tickets to SF CA to be legally married (before gay marriage was legal in all states).

What was your wedding like?

We had a small SF ceremony at The Palace of Fine Arts with a magistrate and an intimate group of friends on January 1, 2014. Jesse is an event planner and took charge of all the planning of our large public wedding at 200 Peachtree in Atlanta June 8, 2014.

Our Advice for Planning a Wedding Have patience, listen to one another’s desires and have fun through the planning process. peachATL.com | 15

What is TRUVADA for PrEP?

® Get information and support to help reduce risky sexual behavior, such as having fewer TRUVADA for PrEP (pre-exposure prophylaxis) sex partners. is a prescription medicine that is used together ® Do not miss any doses of TRUVADA. Missing with safer sex practices to help reduce the risk doses may increase your risk of getting HIV-1 of getting HIV-1 through sex. This use is only for infection.

HIV-negative adults who are at high risk of getting ® If you do become HIV-1 positive, you need HIV-1. To help determine your risk of getting HIV-1, more medicine than TRUVADA alone to treat talk openly with your healthcare provider about HIV-1. TRUVADA by itself is not a complete your sexual health. treatment for HIV-1. If you have HIV-1 and take Ask your healthcare provider if you have questions only TRUVADA, your HIV-1 may become harder to about how to prevent getting HIV. Always practice treat over time. safer sex and use condoms to lower the chance of sexual contact with body fluids. Never reuse or TRUVADA can cause serious side effects: share needles or other items that have body fluids ® Worsening of hepatitis B (HBV) infection. on them.

TRUVADA is not approved to treat HBV. If you have HBV and stop taking TRUVADA, your HBV may IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION suddenly get worse. Do not stop taking TRUVADA What is the most important information I without first talking to your healthcare provider, should know about TRUVADA for PrEP? as they will need to monitor your health.

Who should not take TRUVADA for PrEP? Before taking TRUVADA for PrEP: ® You must be HIV-negative before you start Do not take TRUVADA for PrEP if you: taking TRUVADA for PrEP. You must get ® Already have HIV-1 infection or if you do tested to make sure that you do not already not know your HIV-1 status. If you are HIV-1 have HIV-1. Do not take TRUVADA to reduce the positive, you need to take other medicines with risk of getting HIV-1 unless you are confirmed TRUVADA to treat HIV-1. TRUVADA by itself is not to be HIV-negative. a complete treatment for HIV-1. If you have HIV-1 ® Many HIV-1 tests can miss HIV-1 infection and take only TRUVADA, your HIV-1 may become in a person who has recently become harder to treat over time. infected. If you have flu-like symptoms, you ® Also take certain medicines to treat hepatitis B could have recently become infected with infection.

HIV-1. Tell your healthcare provider if you had What are the other possible side effects of a flu-like illness within the last month before TRUVADA for PrEP? starting or at any time while taking TRUVADA for PrEP. Symptoms of new HIV-1 infection Serious side effects of TRUVADA may also include: include tiredness, fever, joint or muscle aches, headache, sore throat, vomiting, diarrhea, rash, ® Kidney problems, including kidney failure.

Your healthcare provider may do blood tests to night sweats, and/or enlarged lymph nodes in check your kidneys before and during treatment the neck or groin. with TRUVADA. If you develop kidney problems, While taking TRUVADA for PrEP: your healthcare provider may tell you to stop taking TRUVADA. ® You must continue to use safer sex practices. Just taking TRUVADA for PrEP ® Too much lactic acid in your blood (lactic may not keep you from getting HIV-1. acidosis), which is a serious but rare medical emergency that can lead to death. Tell your ® You must stay HIV-negative to keep taking healthcare provider right away if you get these TRUVADA for PrEP: symptoms: weakness or being more tired than ® Get tested for HIV-1 at least every 3 months. usual, unusual muscle pain, being short of breath ® If you think you were exposed to HIV-1, tell or fast breathing, stomach pain with nausea and your healthcare provider right away. vomiting, cold or blue hands and feet, feel dizzy or ® To further help reduce your risk of getting lightheaded, or a fast or abnormal heartbeat.

HIV-1: ® Severe liver problems, which in rare cases can ® Know your HIV status and the HIV status of lead to death. Tell your healthcare provider right your partners. away if you get these symptoms: skin or the white part of your eyes turns yellow, dark “tea-colored” ® Get tested for other sexually transmitted urine, light-colored stools, loss of appetite for infections. Other infections make it easier several days or longer, nausea, or stomach-area for HIV to infect you. pain.

Please see Important Facts about TRUVADA for PrEP including important warnings on the following pages.

We’re adventurous, not reckless.

We know who we are. And we make choices that fit our lives.

TRUVADA for PrEP™ is a once-daily prescription medicine that can help reduce the risk of getting HIV-1 when taken every day and used together with safer sex practices. ® TRUVADA for PrEP is only for adults who are at high risk of getting HIV through sex. ® You must be HIV-negative before you start taking TRUVADA for PrEP.

Ask your doctor about your risk of getting HIV-1 infection and if TRUVADA for PrEP may be right for you. ® Bone problems, including bone pain, softening, or thinning, which may lead to fractures. Your healthcare provider may do tests to check your bones.

Common side effects in people taking TRUVADA for PrEP are stomach-area (abdomen) pain, headache, and decreased weight. Tell your healthcare provider if you have any side effects that bother you or do not go away.

What should I tell my healthcare provider before taking TRUVADA for PrEP? ® All your health problems. Be sure to tell your healthcare provider if you have or have had any kidney, bone, or liver problems, including hepatitis. ® If you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. It is not known if TRUVADA can harm your unborn baby. If you become pregnant while taking TRUVADA for PrEP, talk to your healthcare provider to decide if you should keep taking TRUVADA.

Learn more at truvada.com

® If you are breastfeeding (nursing) or plan to breastfeed. Do not breastfeed. If you become HIV-positive, HIV can be passed to the baby in breast milk. ® All the medicines you take, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements. TRUVADA may interact with other medicines. Keep a list of all your medicines and show it to your healthcare provider and pharmacist when you get a new medicine. ® If you take certain other medicines with TRUVADA, your healthcare provider may need to check you more often or change your dose. These medicines include certain medicines to treat hepatitis C (HCV) infection.

You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit www.FDA.gov/medwatch, or call 1-800-FDA-1088.

IMPORTANT FACTS

(tru-VAH-dah)

This is only a brief summary of important information about taking TRUVADA for PrEPTM (pre-exposure prophylaxis) to help reduce the risk of getting HIV-1 infection. This does not replace talking to your healthcare provider about your medicine.

MOST IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT TRUVADA FOR PrEP Before starting TRUVADA for PrEP: • You must be HIV-1 negative. You must get tested to make sure that you do not already have HIV-1. Do not take TRUVADA for PrEP to reduce the risk of getting HIV-1 unless you are confirmed to be HIV-1 negative.

• Many HIV-1 tests can miss HIV-1 infection in a person who has recently become infected.

Symptoms of new HIV-1 infection include flu-like symptoms, tiredness, fever, joint or muscle aches, headache, sore throat, vomiting, diarrhea, rash, night sweats, and/or enlarged lymph nodes in the neck or groin. Tell your healthcare provider if you have had a flu-like illness within the last month before starting TRUVADA for PrEP. While taking TRUVADA for PrEP: • You must continue to use safer sex practices.

Just taking TRUVADA for PrEP may not keep you from getting HIV-1.

• You must stay HIV-negative to keep taking TRUVADA for PrEP. Get tested for HIV-1 at least every 3 months while taking TRUVADA for PrEP. Tell your healthcare provider right away if you think you were exposed to HIV-1 or have a flu-like illness while taking TRUVADA for PrEP. • If you do become HIV-1 positive, you need more medicine than TRUVADA alone to treat HIV-1. If you have HIV-1 and take only TRUVADA, your HIV-1 may become harder to treat over time.

• See the “How to Further Reduce Your Risk” section for more information. w

TRUVADA may cause serious side effects, including: • Worsening of hepatitis B (HBV) infection.

TRUVADA is not approved to treat HBV. If you have HBV, your HBV may suddenly get worse if you stop taking TRUVADA. Do not stop taking TRUVADA without first talking to your healthcare provider, as they will need to check your health regularly for several months.

ABOUT TRUVADA FOR PrEP TRUVADA for PrEP is a prescription medicine used together with safer sex practices to help reduce the risk of getting HIV-1 through sex. This use is only for HIV-negative adults who are at high risk of getting HIV-1.

• To help determine your risk of getting HIV-1, talk openly with your healthcare provider about your sexual health.

Do NOT take TRUVADA for PrEP if you: • Already have HIV-1 infection or if you do not know your HIV-1 status.

• Take certain medicines to treat hepatitis B infection.

HOW TO TAKE TRUVADA FOR PrEP • Take 1 tablet once a day, every day, not just when you think you have been exposed to HIV-1.

• Do not miss any doses. Missing doses may increase your risk of getting HIV-1 infection.

• Use TRUVADA for PrEP together with condoms and safer sex practices.

• Get tested for HIV-1 at least every 3 months. You must stay HIV-negative to keep taking TRUVADA for PrEP.

POSSIBLE SIDE EFFECTS OF TRUVADA FOR PrEP TRUVADA can cause serious side effects, including: • Those in the “Most Important Information About TRUVADA for PrEP" section.

• New or worse kidney problems, including kidney failure.

• Too much lactic acid in your blood (lactic acidosis), which is a serious but rare medical emergency that can lead to death. Tell your healthcare provider right away if you get these symptoms: weakness or being more tired than usual, unusual muscle pain, being short of breath or fast breathing, stomach pain with nausea and vomiting, cold or blue hands and feet, feel dizzy or lightheaded, or a fast or abnormal heartbeat.

• Severe liver problems, which in rare cases can lead to death. Tell your healthcare provider right away if you get these symptoms: skin or the white part of your eyes turns yellow, dark “tea-colored” urine, light-colored stools, loss of appetite for several days or longer, nausea, or stomach-area pain.

• Bone problems.

Common side effects in people taking TRUVADA for PrEP include stomach-area (abdomen) pain, headache, and decreased weight.

These are not all the possible side effects of TRUVADA. Tell your healthcare provider right away if you have any new symptoms while taking TRUVADA for PrEP. Your healthcare provider will need to do tests to monitor your health before and during treatment with TRUVADA for PrEP.

BEFORE TAKING TRUVADA FOR PrEP Tell your healthcare provider if you: • Have or have had any kidney, bone, or liver problems, including hepatitis.

• Have any other medical conditions.

• Are pregnant or plan to become pregnant.

• Are breastfeeding (nursing) or plan to breastfeed.

Do not breastfeed. If you become HIV-positive, HIV can pass to the baby in breast milk.

Tell your healthcare provider about all the medicines you take: • Keep a list that includes all prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements, and show it to your healthcare provider and pharmacist.

• Ask your healthcare provider or pharmacist about medicines that should not be taken with TRUVADA for PrEP.

HOW TO FURTHER REDUCE YOUR RISK • Know your HIV status and the HIV status of your partners.

• Get tested for other sexually transmitted infections. Other infections make it easier for HIV to infect you.

• Get information and support to help reduce risky sexual behavior, such as having fewer sex partners.

• Do not share needles or personal items that can have blood or body fluids on them.

GET MORE INFORMATION • This is only a brief summary of important information about TRUVADA for PrEP. Talk to your healthcare provider or pharmacist to learn more, including how to prevent HIV infection.

• Go to start.truvada.com or call 1-800-GILEAD-5 • If you need help paying for your medicine, visit start.truvada.com for program information.

TRUVADA FOR PREP, the TRUVADA FOR PREP Logo, the TRUVADA Blue Pill Design, TRUVADA, GILEAD, and the GILEAD Logo are trademarks of Gilead Sciences, Inc., or its related companies.

All other marks referenced herein are the property of their respective owners.

Version date: April 2017 © 2017 Gilead Sciences, Inc. All rights reserved. TVDC0136 08/17

BLAKES OSCARS SUNDAY PHOTOS: Sher Pruitt

20 | 03.14.18

peachATL.com | 21

SUNDAY FUNDAY AT ZOCALO PHOTOS: Sher Pruitt

22 | 03.14.18

AMENITIES, OPTIMIZED

Our 27-story high-rise in the heart of Tech Square features three levels of the most unique amenities in Atlanta (if not the U.S.!).

Experience our stunning collection of features and imagine your life, optimized.

Penthouse units will be available early 2018.

1/8 Mile Running Track Heated Saltwater Pool with Resistance Lane Membership-Class Fitness Center with Yoga Studio Internet-Enabled Fitness Equipment and Outdoor Crossfit Stations 95 8th Street NW | Atlanta, GA 30309 P. 855.208.3555 ModeraMidtown@MillCreekPlaces.com ModeraMidtown.com

peachATL.com | 23

THE ARMORY REUNION AT AMSTERDAM PHOTOS: Sher Pruitt

PLEASE CHECK OUT FACEBOOK AND OUR WEBSITE FOR MORE PHOTOS 24 | 03.14.18

DO YOU WANT TO LOSE ANOTHER PIECE OF GAY ATLANTA?

TR BACKS

EET

LE G N U J

ATL

R ARMO

Y

T? X E N D BE L U O C WHO

Go to gagapac.com for free membership and help save gay Georgia

PRESERVING CULTURAL AND LANDMARK LOCATIONS IMPORTANT TO GAY GEORGIA

CONTACT US (470) 658-7629 INFO@GAGAPAC.COM

You may know Daniel as a star on Walking Dead, and as the only out cast member.

He grew up in South Georgia, and today he lives in Atlanta where he is the executive producer on two network TV shows and the CEO of a tech company. He has always had an activist streak, and as an ambassador for HRC and GLAAD, he fights adamantly for LGBTQ rights. We also highly recommend you follow Daniel Newman on either Twitter, Snap, or Instagram.

Daniel Newman

Mar 15 - Mar 21

Twisted Broadway: A Benefit for AID Atlanta

The Sugarboyz! Dance Party + Performance Art

Lips Atlanta will host a special edition of their beloved Twisted Broadway show hosted by Edie Cheezburger that will benefit AID Atlanta. General admission is $45, and VIP is $65 – tickets and info at aidatlanta.org.

Get ready to werk, twerk & sissy that walk at a new nightlife event featuring androgynous & femme performers.

Wednesday, March 14 Lips Atlanta STAFF PICK!

Friday, March 16 The Heretic

The Return of the Cowtippers Heifer Review Now that Cowtippers is remaining open, Ruby Redd and her heifers are back with a vengeance to stampede up and down Piedmont and stop traffic!

Sunday, March 18 Cowtippers

Mr. & Ms. Atlanta Eagle The Last Hurrah!

Neonblk: A Drag Show Celebrating Black Excellence

Come out for the last bar night hosted by the reigning Mr. and Ms. Atlanta Eagle 2017 before new titleholders are crowned. A highlight is an auction for the jock strap that Mr. Atlanta Eagle will be wearing that night!

Eight excellent drag performers are coming together to put on a sickening showcase in celebration of Black Future Month, and everybody is welcome.

Friday, March 16 The Eagle 30 | 03.14.18

Wednesday, March 21 Argosy

Not So Simple Simon

By Gregg Shapiro

A

t first glance, you might not think that gay director Greg Berlanti’s 2018 gay rom-com(ing out movie) “Love, Simon” (Fox 2000) has much in common with the Oscar-nominated 2017 gay romdram “Call Me By Your Name,” but you’d be wrong.

First of all, both films are based on novels. “Love, Simon” is based on Becky Albertalli’s 2015 Y/A novel “Simon vs. the Homo Sapiens Agenda” while “Call Me By Your Name” is based on the 2007 novel by André Aciman. Additionally, both novelists are, as it turns out, straight.

Just wait, there’s more. Simon and Elio, the lead characters in each movie, are 17 years old.

They are both sexually awkward and coming to terms with being gay. They also have parents that, ultimately, embrace and support them.

In the case of Simon (Nick Robinson), his valedictorian mom Emily (Jennifer Garner), who is now a therapist, and his former quarterback dad Jack (Josh Duhamel), have made a loving home for him and his kitchen whiz kid sister Nora (Talitha Bateman) in suburban Atlanta.

So, where’s the conflict? It’s 2018, there are 208 days left until graduation, and Simon is in the closet! Not that there aren’t other gay kids at his high school. But watching gay classmate Ethan (Clark Moore) being relentlessly bullied and harassed by some of the jocks makes Simon visibly uncomfortable. You can see him cringing. Also, initially unaware of Simon’s sexuality, his father Jack tends to make insensitive remarks.

32 | 03.14.18

Photo: 20th Century Fox, Ben Rothstein

As for his social circle, including longtime best friends Leah (Katherine Langford) and Nick (Jorge Lendeborg Jr.), as well as Abby (Alexandra Shipp), they are among the generation for whom being gay is a non-issue.

But that doesn’t make it any easier for Simon.

Things take an interesting turn when Simon begins communicating anonymously via email with a fellow classmate, going by the handle Blue, who comes out in a blog post. It sets the stage for Simon’s imaginative sleuthing to try to determine which one of his classmates Blue might be.

Unfortunately, their correspondence is discovered on a school library computer by the obnoxious Martin (Logan Miller) who quickly becomes Simon’s nemesis when he begins to blackmail him. This leads to several awkward situations, eventually resulting in a blow-up that could cost Simon everything.

“Love, Simon” strikes a nice balance between the rom and the com, and even adds a powerful dramatic dimension (bring tissue if you are prone to tears). The performances, especially those by Robinson, Garner, Langford, Shipp, and even Duhamel are solid and believable just as teacher Ms. Albright, scene-stealer Natasha Rathwell, brings an abundance of comic relief.

Rating: B+

Like a Virgin

How to keep it pure for the man to come

By Scott King

I made it through the wilderness. Somehow, I made it through. I bought myself a cottage at the edge of the wood with an amazing view.

But enough about me. Let’s talk about you.

When you meet someone groovy, do you walk home with a spring in your step and your head in the clouds, or do you look down at the ground with a frown, trying to figure out how it will all go wrong?

Don’t be so negative, Nancy. Keep your Teen Spirit fresh. Fresh as driven snow.

Remember in January when it snowed on a Friday night and by early Saturday afternoon the sun came out and melted the white away by the end of brunch? True romantics like me got up early that morning, looked out the window as excitedly as a mame in an old movie (fixin’ to lose her religion), made the cocoa and then went out snapping pictures and reveling in the wonder of it all. The “likes” just wouldn’t stop.

The night is bitter, I know. The stars have left their glitter, so I hear. And all because of the man that got away. Do you know how many men there are on this planet? More than 3 billion, allegedly. I bet a decent percentage of them are totally bangable and would love to meet you.

Keep your chin up. Keep it real. Keep on pluggin’.

Here’s a story: My BFF in the ATL and I were at Sweetwater Creek, hiking a warm summer’s day away. And by hiking, I mean we were taking pictures and being beautiful. We got in the water in our underwear and had a swim. Because it was a beautiful day and because we love America, we started singing all three verses of Like a Virgin at the top of our lungs.

Along came a spider. Just kidding. It was a hot young bro in Umbro shorts, hiking boots, backpack and 0% body fat. That’s ALL he was wearing. A few moments later, his beta male friends came along behind him, bringing up the rear. They were chatting and happy-go-lucky. They had no idea how intensely we were staring at their hunky, intrepid friend.

The leader of the pack was a young heterosexual human male.

He kept staring straight forward with total respect to the gay boys in the water but tacitly asserting that he was not going to sleep with us. I looked up from this conga line of innocuous

34 | 03.14.18

heteronormativity just in time to notice my friend floating down the river with his Calvin Klein covered crotch popping into the air like a surprise FM radio hit. He was floating downstream, his dick leading the way towards his own personal Jesus.

No harm no foul. That’s how you keep it pure. Pure as Sweetwater Creek. You go after what you want, but you do not assault anyone, and you do not make it something that it’s not.

There was a heavy silence as we quietly put our clothes back on, but I got my friend laughing and singing again by busting out my rendition of Human Nature. And I’m not sorry.

Then we got lost, and we almost died, but we didn’t. We lived to fight another day. My friend is now in a happy relationship with someone about the same age as that precocious, stoic young man was then (Obama was President). This time around, the object of his affection is a well-read homosexual who is totally into him.

The blueprint of desire builds the house of soulmate. Don’t give up. There is power in goodbye. There is also power in saying hello. You have to kiss a lot of frogs, and then you have to tell them that you have to go. Let’s just pray that you make it through the wilderness without getting mono.

I’m not waiting on Prince Charming. I’m looking for Prince Sinister. I’ve never seen him on the hiking trails, but I know what he looks like. He’s tall, dark, and handsome. The tall part is negotiable.

But he’s a twisted fucker. Pensive, convoluted, and full of energy. He gets my jokes, and he makes me think. He tells me things I’ve never thought of before.

I’ve encountered his mini-me, several times. He usually has a nasty little drug habit or is barely legal. Or both. One day my prince will come and pass a piss test pure and clean.

Pure as driven snow.

Happy Anniversary!

Scott King is an Atlanta-based writer, consultant, and political activist. He enjoys tennis, hiking, rock concerts, and having drinks with friends.

He is currently working on a novel about a hooker with a heart of Bitcoin.

Book

Launch March 31st, 7PM

Atlanta resident, retired U.S. Air Force Captain Mark David Gibson makes his debut as an author with his memoir, Served in Silence The struggle to live authentically.

The Fabulous Fox Theatre - Atlanta, GA For tickets & info visit: MarkDavidGibson.com/events

Served in Silence is proud to partner with Lost-n-Found Youth (Portion of the proceeds of Served in Silence will go to LNFY)

Lost-n-Found Youth is an Atlanta-based nonprofit that exists to end homelessness for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer (LGBTQ+) and all sexual minority youth. lnfy.org

SPECIAL GUESTS INCLUDE Sam McClure

Eugene Cornelius Jr.

Jenn T. Grace

Senior Vice President, National LGBT Chamber of Commerce (NGLCC)

Deputy Associate Administrator for the Office of International Trade with the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA)

Publisher, Served in Silence, Founder of Publish Your Purpose Press and the Author’s Academy

SERVED IN SILENCE LAUNCH SPONSORED BY

SPONSORED BY

ST. PATRICK’S DAY 03.17.18

COACHES PARTY AT HERETIC

PHOTOS: Brian McCall

38 | 03.14.18

MIDTOWN 1

Monroe Dr. NE

14

Amsterdam Ave.

NE ve . tA

Piedmont Park

on

11

dm

6 12th St. NE

18

Pi e

Juniper St. NE

14th St. NE

7

9

2

10th St. NE

10

. NE

19

oe Dr

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

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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

37

ge

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on

Piedmont Park

ir .

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

NE

38

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BJ Roosters Opus 1 Tripps Woof's

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39

d.

BARS 20 21 22 23

41

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Manchester St. NE

Piedmont Rd. NE

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26

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30

Lambert Dr.

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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

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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

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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

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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

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tenatlanta.com

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EINSTEIN’S

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einsteinsatlanta.com 1077 Juniper St NE

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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

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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 | 03.14.18

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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 FOR A PERFECT ST. PATRICK’S DAY! AHHH, THE LUCK IF THE IRISH!

1

2

3

4

5

.. and a nip of whiskey!

6

Watch the parade

7

Kiss a leprechaun

8

Find a lucky clover

9

Go bar-hopping

Wear something green!

Eat a fish fry (fish and chips)

Seek out a local Irish pub

Drink a pint of beer…

46 | 03.14.18

10

Get an Irish Coffee for dessert

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

“Shelfie”, noun: a selfie taken while s(h)itting on the toilet

Asking for a friend: what do you actually do when people sing happy birthday to you?

Me: What kind of cologne are you wearing?

Him: Are you flirting with me?!

Me: Uh, not at all. You just smell good.

Him: Umm, let me ask my wife. She got it for me.

I hate playing “never have I ever” – because I’m a slut

Me: Oh ok, thanks Him: I hope you didn’t take that wrong, but... if I was into guys......(winks) Me: That attraction would only go one way. (winks)

Why is it a jockstrap party when; 1. None of these guys are jocks 2 None of them are strapping.

Grindr? I hardly even know her.

I have doubts about your ‘greatness’ if you have to advertise how wonderful you are every damn time … #havesomeclass

I guess they are serious know because they did the whole ‘look each other in the eyes while deleting Grindr’ ritual

When I go out I don’t wanna look cute, I wanna look drop dead GORGEOUS!

48 | 03.14.18

ARIES (MAR. 21 - APR. 19)

LIBRA (SEP. 23 - OCT. 22)

Your fantasy world is piqued, Aries. Your imagination is running wild. Maintain a certain amount of control over your emotions or they may get the better of you.

You could find yourself in a cloud of confusion in the afternoons. Avoid this by making an effort to ground yourself throughout the day. Make sure your actions result from an equal balance between thought and emotion

Bask in the sunshine of today. Focus on the positive aspects of your life and work to expand these energies.

There’s a great deal of opportunity open at this time.

The key to taking advantage of this is to stay close to the things that truly bring you the most happiness. The details will work themselves out with almost no effort.

Have faith that you will succeed and you will.

TAURUS (APR. 20 - MAY 20)

SCORPIO (OCT. 23 - NOV. 21)

You may get the feeling that you’re operating in an emotional crossfire this week, Taurus. On the one hand, you may have a “me first,” selfish feeling that demands attention from others. You may also sense the need to work to serve others and bring like-minded people together. Realize that both of these energies are valid and deserve your attention.

Balance is the key. Work to soothe your fluctuating emotions.

Make sure you’re getting enough sleep this week. You may seem groggy and your head could be a bit cloudy, but try not to let this stop you from getting your work done. Much of what you perceive may not exactly correlate with reality. Your emotions could be especially distorted. You may have a strong desire to escape into a fantasy world. Try to keep both feet on the ground.

GEMINI (MAY 21 - JUN. 20)

SAGITTARIUS (NOV. 22 - DEC. 21)

You’ll enjoy a week or so of high spirits and friendly interactions. The energy is in your favor, although it may not seem like it. Your emotions may become cloudy and it might seem like people are working against you socially. Although this may be true to some extent, realize that much of this silly paranoia comes more from your emotional insecurity than another’s plot against you.

There may be an area of your life that seems completely fanciful now. The issues regarding it have become a bit hazy. You may no longer be sure of the reality of the situation. This week’s energies will bring these issues into focus. Your emotions are especially heightened, and they, too, will seem a bit clouded. Try to stay balanced and gain a new perspective on the situation.

CANCER (JUN. 21 - JUL. 22)

CAPRICORN (DEC. 22 - JAN. 19)

Ask for help if you need it crabby. Your nature is to serve others, but in order to maintain that energy, make sure that you’re taken care of as well. Offer extra hugs to the people you love. (hell, just hug everyone!)

In work-related issues, make sure that you aren’t biting off more than you can chew. Delegate tasks to others. Pamper yourself tonight with a hot bath and a good meal.

Your fantasy life is especially active this week, so enjoy this little break into your dream world. Coming back to reality may be difficult. Keep tabs on your emotions so they don’t get the better of you. The impressions you receive from the outside world may not be accurate today. Keep your wits about you and try not to get caught up in alcohol.

LEO (JUL. 23 - AUG. 22)

AQUARIUS (JAN. 20 - FEB. 18)

Keeping your emotions in balance is going to be the key to a successful day. Don’t get swept away by a fanciful situation that could send your mind spinning. Maintain self-control at all times. This might be easier said than done. Give yourself a break and avoid excess alcohol or any sort of drug use. It will be hard enough to keep your mind clear without them – that’s right, put the Xanax down.

You’re in a fun-loving and jovial mood this week, and you should make time to enjoy it with friends. The one caveat is that your emotions may be a bit clouded. You may not have the most accurate impression of a situation. You might feel that people have the wrong impression of who you are. Try not to feel insecure. Have confidence in yourself and take the lead.

VIRGO (AUG. 23 - SEP. 22)

PISCES (FEB. 19 - MAR. 20)

You may feel like you’re running into a brick wall at every turn, especially when it comes to emotions.

The intensity of the week may have you feeling like you’re in a pressure cooker. Try not to blow things out of proportion. Realize that much of the drama is more a figment of your imagination than reality.

Clear away the clouds and get to the heart of the matter.

You may have a strange paranoia that people are out to get you, but don’t let this feeling paralyze you. Your emotions are more than likely getting the better of you.

The reality of the situation is much different than your sensitive emotions perceive. Avoid the tendency to escape even further into this fantasy world by going out for the sake of going out.

50 | 03.14.18

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 really enjoy having online or ‘cyber’ sex with guys, and I have even developed a pretty good relationship with a few of them without ever meeting them. The thing is I’m a total top, but when I engage in online sex, I fantasize about getting f**ked by these guys that are all either closeted or very straight-acting. In fact, my biggest fantasy is getting banged by a straight guy, and I want him to f**k my p**sy. So, I don’t quite know what’s going on. I’m a total top, but I want to get f**ked by a straight guy? Help me sort this out for me?

Sincerely Straight to the Top

Dear Deep Clean It sounds like you are taking a lot of steps to be a good bottom, but your boyfriend isn’t taking any steps towards being a good top! If you have anal sex, you are bound to get messy at some point regardless of how much you prepare.

Yes, you can eat sensibly, and high-fiber, and douching and other cleaning remedies are great to alleviate the worst, but you can’t be that squeaky clean the whole time. You have to eat, and your body needs to function. And the fact that he will borderline shame you for not being all clean is just no not cool - clearly, he has some issues there. Talk to him about how all this makes you feel, and that his expectations are simply too high at the moment. If he’s that afraid of getting shit on his dick or if he can’t take even the slightest smell or sight of poop then maybe he shouldn’t be doing anal in the first place!

Dear Straight to the Top So, you are a top who wants to get your p**sy banged by a straight guy? Talk about layers. Or issues rather, because, if you hadn’t noticed, you have some. There is nothing wrong with having fantasies that are out there - that’s what they are there for! But the straight thing isn’t going to happen, because if it would, it would be a gay thing, ok? It’s pretty clear that you struggle with what defines you and others.

You say you are total top, but still want to bottom - are you sure the issue isn’t more you having a hard time admitting to yourself that you are (also) a bottom? In this day and age, it really shouldn’t make a difference, but still, it does to some.

So start by working through the biases and preconceptions that you have - and then try getting f**cked by a gay guy.

Betcha anything, that once you get a taste for the real thing, your straight fantasies will wither away.

I’m seeing this guy, but our sex life is starting to get a little challenged. He is the top in the relationship, and he has from the get-go been very clear that he wants everything to be squeaky clean ‘down there.’ He can’t deal with any kind of mess to the point of gagging, and if even the smallest mess occurs, he needs days before he will even approach me again. He is also giving me advice on what to eat, and he will question my choices if we are out to dinner if he thinks that may end up upsetting my stomach. I really like him, but this whole keeping-it-clean-at-all-times scheme is taking over my life. What should I do?

Sincerely Deep Clean 52 | 03.14.18

I’m constantly being compared to my new boyfriend’s ex. He doesn’t do it consciously, but he lets comments slip that makes me feel like I’m not quite up to par with the guy before me. He is nice and loving and all, but sometimes I feel like the rebound guy or that I need to live up to this ideal. Should I stay or go?

Sincerely Second Best Dear Second Best First of all, you should never feel like second best in any relationship! Dynamics are always complicated but (even subconsciously) comparing you to someone else is a definite confidence killer. Tell him how you feel about and if it comes out that he is not really over his ex yet, you would do best in dropping him on the spot - or at least dial back the commitment considerably. You don’t deserve being second best, and you should be with someone who knows and appreciates your worth!

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