Peach v2 i17 issuu

Love Your Shape: Thick, Not Wasted HRC Gala: Impossible to Ignore

Swimwear For Your Best. Summer. Ever Get Your Beach Bum Ready!

CONTENTS APRIL 25, 2018

V2-17

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From the Editor This issue is dedicated to the favorite garment of the season: swimwear!

We collaborated with Boy Next Door Menswear on a cute little photo shoot and had Slade, John, and Keewan model the latest, sexy swimsuit styles. Darren Floro-Bryant guides you to how you get your body (or booty!) in better shape when wearing less, and Scott King and Jamie Kirk are all about body-positive outlooks and a lighter approach for summer.

Summertime equals party-time so we highlight the new and pleasurable Saturnalia party, and the upcoming HRC Atlanta Gala themed Impossible to Ignore.

We top the issue of with new editions of Q Music, Screen Savor, and New Gay In Town, and simply wish you the Best. Summer. Ever..

Darren Floro-Bryant Scott King Jamie Kirk Branden Lee Gregg Shapiro

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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.

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6 | 04.25.18

Saturnalia

Atlanta’s Newest Party!

In ancient Roman times, a festival celebrated life in honor of the Roman god Saturn. All types of people came to together to revel and enjoy in all the pleasures of life.

Saturnalia, Atlanta’s newest party lineup, was created in the spirit of the ancient Roman festival that celebrated all the pleasures of life in the name of the Roman god Saturn.

Saturnalia is the opportunity for everyone to come together and unite in enjoying delicious drinks, stunning visuals, amazing sounds, and DJs to party the night away.

The Saturnalia party lineup kicks off on Friday, April 27 at Deep End from 6-9 pm with the When Love Takes Over take-over event and special ‘Yappy Hour’ benefiting PALS Atlanta with specialty cocktails and delicious appetizers from the menu.

The main Saturnalia event takes place at the 595 North Event Center on April 28th from 10:30 pm3 am. The space will be transformed into an otherworldly environment and combined with the sounds of NYC DJ & producer Brett Osterhaus guests will be dancing the night away. Get your tickets at saturnaliaparty.com.

The Saturnalia celebration closes out with a special brunch at Agavero from 12-4 pm where you can recover with a great brunch and $10 bottomless mimosas.

Saturnalia has partnered with PALS Atlanta (Pets Are Loving Support) and will donate parts of the proceeds from all events to the non-profit, that provides ongoing care and support to the pets of Atlanta area persons living with disabilities due to HIV/AIDS and terminal illnesses.

Learn more at palsatlanta.org.

The What, When and Where!

What: Saturnalia Party Weekend When & Where: April 27 – When Love Takes Over presents Saturnalia Kick Off at Deep End. April 28 – Saturnalia Party at 595 North Event Center ($10-25 Tickets at saturnaliaparty.com) April 29 – Special Brunch at AGAVERO ($10 bottomless mimosas).

Photo: McCall Studio 8 | 04.25.18

THIS IS OUR TIME TO FACE THOSE WHO WANT TO IGNORE THE LESBIAN, GAY, BISEXUAL, TRANSGENDER, AND QUEER COMMUNITY.

JOIN HRC ATLANTA IN CELEBRATING OUR ADVANCEMENTS, FOCUSING ON THE NEEDS AND CONCERNS OF OUR DIVERSE COMMUNITY, AND PREPARING FOR THE WORK AHEAD.

05.05.18 TO PURCHASE TICKETS, VISIT

HRCAtlanta.com

HRC ATLANTA CORPORATE SPONSORS *AS OF APRIL 18

PRESENTING

PLATINUM

GOLD

SILVER

BRONZE

CRYSTAL

Boston Consulting Group Diageo InterContinental Hotels Group Littler Mendelson P.C. Morgan Stanley Morris, Manning & Martin LLP

The Fryer Law Firm Kilpatrick Townsend & Stockton LLP Seyfarth Shaw LLP

NEW GAY IN TOWN: North vs South Dating

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

10 | 04.25.18

I’ve lived in Atlanta nine months now, and I’m still getting accustomed to the differences between southern and northern men. I spent the first 26 years of my life living in the northeast, so this 27th year in Atlanta has definitely been a learning experience.

Southern men are definitely interesting creatures.

I have been lucky in the sense that as soon as I moved to Atlanta, I started seeing a guy, then got a boyfriend one month into moving here. I never found a boyfriend or dated anyone that consistently in my years in Boston or Philadelphia. So in my experience, the men in Atlanta are more likely to want to enter a relationship.

Granted the first guy I was seeing dumped me for his ex. Then my relationship with my boyfriend of six months was a toxic, dysfunctional, unhealthy situation. So is it better to have never had aboyfriend at all in the north, or have toxic relationships in the south?

Dating definitely felt easier in the north. In Atlanta, it seems difficult to get a date. Granted, I did need time to heal from my past relationship, but I used to go on 3-4 dates a week in Boston.Atlanta does have more attractive and appealing men than Phila-

delphia, but Boston still remains my favorite hunting ground.

In Atlanta, I’m constantly getting hit up for sex, but it’s rare a guy wants to actually go on a date.

Then when a guy does seem interested in a date, he always wants to talk on the phone first, which I don’t understand. The point of a first date is to talk, face to face. If we waste all your first date convo on the phone, are we just going to repeat it all on the date?

I’m an adult and I’ve been online dating since I was 20. Needing to talk on the phone before meeting is extremely juvenile to me, and a huge turn-off. Atlanta men are notorious liars, so I guess it makes sense many here need to make sure they aren’t being catfished.

Speaking of liars, the amount guys lie in Atlanta is astounding.

I’ve had guys lie about wanting to

date me only for them to get back with their ex. I’ve had guys lie and hide their social media from me.

I’ve had guys lie about being out of the closet.

In the north, I’ve had guys lie about their age, height, weight, dick size, though most of that is quickly disproven as soon as we meet. Atlanta men will keep the lie going for as long as possible. You can be seeing a guy for months until you find out the truth. I hate liars and try to live my life with as much transparency as possible. So having to constantly deal with guys that can’t live their truth is extremely frustrating.

Another difference is that it’s rare for me to meet guys with college degrees in Atlanta. I’m not a snob but I’ve met more guys with mugshots than degrees since I’ve moved to Atlanta.

Despite the negatives, Atlanta is home, and I like it here.

peachATL.com | 11

By Mik Hyldebrandt The annual HRC Atlanta Gala on May 5 is not only the biggest social highlight as well as their biggest fundraiser of the year, but a golden opportunity to tell the community about the work and progress of the campaign. Peach spoke to Gala Dinner & Auction Committee member, Ryan Roche, about the big night and essential work of the HRC Atlanta.

Tell us a little about the work of the HRC Atlanta?

Nationally, the Human Rights Campaign represents a force of more than 3 million members and supporters nationwide. As the largest national lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer civil rights organization, HRC resists the politics of hate in communities across the country. HRC envisions a world where LGBTQ people are ensured of their basic equal rights and can be open, honest and safe at home, at work, and in the community. Locally, we fight anti-LGBTQ legislation and legislators, and fuel pro-equality candidates to victory.

Tell us about the direction of the HRC - what are the main focuses of the HRC? The current focus of the Human Rights Campaign this election year is to build on our grassroots expansion with HRC Rising, a campaign to accelerate progress in states from coast-to-coast, resist the politics of hate, fight anti-LGBTQ legislation and fuel pro-equality candidates and initiatives.

With all the political turmoil right now, how do you see the role of the HRC in Atlanta and on a national level?

HRC Rising provides another front in our fight against the Trump-Pence agenda and includes mobilizing “equality voters” in Atlanta and beyond who will be crucial to success in local, state and national electoral races in November.

As a social highlight of the year, tell us about the HRC Gala on May 5 themed Impossible to Ignore - what can attendees expect?

Impossible to Ignore carries an important meaning in 2018. We hoped we would never again need to face an anti-equality administration that makes every attempt to destroy our hard-won rights, but we are not shaken.

Attendees will hear about HRC’s accomplishments at both the local and national levels as well as the challenges we have been facing and predict will come up in the near future.

12 | 04.25.18

Being a social event is one piece of a much larger purpose. The HRC Atlanta Gala provides an opportunity for attendees to hear directly from HRC leadership about the importance for and effectiveness of grassroots mobilization while simultaneously providing HRC with necessary funds to support local and national initiatives. We hope this opportunity gives our attendees and HRC the fuel to take action and mobilize against inequality.

Tell us about some of the presenters and the performers of the night?

We are excited to welcome Sen. Tammy Baldwin (D-WI) and Raphael Bostic, President and CEO of the Federal Reserve Bank of Atlanta. In addition to other surprise attendees, we are honored to present The Armorettes with this year’s Leon Allen & Winston Johnson Community Leadership Award and Victory for the World Church with the Dan Bradley Humanitarian Award.

How can you attend or get involved with the event?

Tickets are still available and can be purchased by visiting hrcatlanta.com. Last year’s 30th-anniversary event sold out not too long before the Gala, and we want to encourage those interested in attending to purchase a ticket sooner than later. Other engagement opportunities exist and include volunteering for the event, donating to the silent auction and becoming a corporate sponsor.

Anything you’d like to add?

We want to wish a sincere thanks to a few groups. First, our volunteers who have and continue to put in significant amounts of time and energy to make this event a great success. Next, our corporate sponsors who, in addition to their financial support, also provide safe workplaces allowing their LGBTQ employees to flourish and live authentically. To our table captains who are the backbone of the Gala and serve as ambassadors by spreading the word about HRC’s work. Finally, to the Atlanta and surrounding LGBTQ and allied communities whom we wish to thank for 31 years of dedicated and unconditional support. Thank you for all that you have done and continue to do to make this event and our community better.

Tickets for the HRC Atlanta Impossible to Ignore Gala on May 5 at the Hyatt Regency can purchased at hrcatlanta.com.

BEST.SUMMER. EVER! Summer is approaching and it’s time to secure your swimwear for the season – because before you know it, summer is here and all the cutest styles will be gone!

All clothing available at the Boy Next Door Menswear location on Piedmont and on boynextdoormenswear.com.

Photography and Styling: MH & RB Behind the Scenes: Tevin Roy Models: Slade Atkinson, John Fiscian, Keewan Williams

14 | 04.25.18

All images shot with the iPhone X

This Page: 2Eros Nautical Swim Brief, $59 • Polly & Crackers Golden Cock Tank, $30 • ES Collection Fit Tank Grey, $59.99 Argyle Grant Boyshort Graphite Rose, $69

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Opposite Page: Tribe Oceanic Boy Brief, $66 • 2Eros Desert Camo Swim Brief,$59.99 • Addicted Plant Swimshorts Yellow, $75 peachATL.com | 15

This Page: Argyle Grant Boyshort Trance, $69 Crochet Shirt, $59

•

Mission Summer

Opposite Page Addicted Plant Swimshorts Yellow, $75 ES Collection Happiness + Pleasure Tank, $44.99

16 | 04.25.18

•

All clothing courtesy of Boy Next Door Menswear.

A special thanks to Joe Ashkouti and Todd Shoemaker for making their backyard and pool available for this shoot – see you at the pool party! peachATL.com | 17

The Beirut of the Problem

By Gregg Shapiro Ongoing and recent events in Syria are a daily reminder of the fact that the Middle East has been in turmoil for generations. Hopes for peace in the region remain in doubt.

The thriller “Beirut” begins in 1972, at a time when Lebanon was relatively untouched by what was taking place around it. Diplomat Mason Skiles (Jon Hamm) and his wife Nadia (Leïla Bekhti) are hosting a cocktail party full of assorted politicians and high-ranking officials. As Mason puts it, Palestinians want nothing more than to “burn down the Israeli house next door.”

Among the locals that Mason and Nadia employ in their household is a young Palestinian boy named Karim. Unbeknownst to them, Karim is the younger brother of one of the terrorists responsible for orchestrating the massacre at the Munich Olympics.

When fellow diplomat Cal (Mark Pellegrino) arrives late to the party, with the news about Karim, he’s not alone. There are Mossad agents waiting outside to take the boy away.

Mason is shocked and tries to find a means of working out the situation. However, the arrival of Karim’s brother (who has escaped from prison) and several masked gunmen turn the situation chaotic.

Unfortunately, Nadia is killed during the assault.

Ten years later, Mason is a shell of a man. A “front-runner who stumbled,” he’s working as an arbitrator in Boston, and he’s an alcoholic. One evening, in a bar, a man walks in and attempts to recruit him for a gig in Beirut. He tells Mason that “time is tight” and that the “agency would be grateful for his cooperation,” and leaves behind an envelope with a passport and airline ticket.

With nothing left to lose, Mason heads to Beirut.

It’s 1982 and Beirut, in the midst of a civil war, is in worse shape than when he left, following the Palestinian siege of the city. He is visibly shaken when he takes in the bombed-out city view from his hotel window.

Deputy CIA attaché Sandy (Rosamund Pike) meets with Mason. She brings him to an event being hosted by the ambassador (Larry Pine). There he meets others on Sandy’s team and is told that “an American was pulled off the street in Beirut.” They want experienced negotiator Mason to broker the hostage situation deal with the kidnappers. Oh, and by the way, his old friend Cal is the hostage, and the lead kidnapper is a grown-up Karim (Idir Chender).

From this point on, “Beirut” becomes a tangled web spy thriller, full of double-crosses, tense and terrifying situations, and more than a few surprises to keep the action moving and the audience engaged.

Director Brad Anderson is a long way from his Boston rom-com “Next Stop Wonderland” of 20 years ago, but he handles the material with agility. It probably helps that he’s working from a screenplay

by Tony Gilroy (the “Bourne” series and “Michael Clayton”), a screenwriter (and director) who is at his best with this type of material.

Brutal and bloody, “Beirut” is a timely tale of intrigue.

peach rating: 3.5/5 Peaches: Ripe peach

18 | 04.25.18

Get Your Beach Bum Ready!

By Darren Floro-Bryant

It’s swimsuit season, so time to get your beach bum ready! Below are some exercises to help you look your best while wearing less.

The Basics

These first three exercises are the best way to engage a large number of muscle groups throughout your body which will also assist in keeping your metabolism fired up.

out the body. Just like push-ups, making small variations in the positioning of your feet can change the focus of the area of the legs you want to target. Another great way to add intensity to your squats is to alter the base of stability (ex. use a bosu or a wobble board to stand on), engaging other muscles and stabilizers.

Push-Ups!

A great exercise to help with posture, core strength, and balance. Push-ups are a very versatile exercise; just by making small changes in the positioning of your hands, feet, and angles, you can change the emphasis on the areas you would like to focus on.

Squats!

Another fantastic and versatile exercise. Squats not only utilize the biggest muscles in the body, but they also activate a lot of secondary muscle groups through20 | 04.25.18

Planks!

This is one of the best all-around exercises for core strength, supporting proper posture and improving balance. Holding the plank position takes strength and endurance in your back, abs, and core. In addition to the core and depending on the type, planks can also work muscles in your legs, shoulders, arms, etc. There are so many variations to this exercise that it is easy to add this exercise to any routine as a superset (compliment to what you are already doing).

The best thing about these exercises is that they can be done anywhere and with little to no equipment. Also, there are numerous variations to these exercises allowing you to target specific areas of the body you may want to focus on.

The Add-Ons

The next couple of exercises are great ways to add a little more detail and focus to areas of the body that will help you look and feel your best in your swimsuit.

Donkey Kicks!

This exercise focuses on the largest muscle in your body, the gluteus maximus. This is a great exercise simply because it works the muscles of the butt in the leg being “kicked” as well as the leg used for support. Also by keeping your upper body still for support, donkey kicks work your core, lower back, and a lot of secondary stabilizing muscles in the legs. Just by adding variations to this exercise you will maximize the results to one of your best assets in a swimsuit.

Bent Over Reverse Flys!

These are great because you do not need a lot of weight (sometimes none at all) to do this exercise. Reverse flys will help keep the shoulders back and chest up, which will help with your posture. This exercise works the rhomboid muscles, the rear deltoids, and middle trapezius muscles. These all help build a strong upper back and help balance your shoulder strength.

Pro Trainer Tip!

Having great posture and standing tall will help you look and feel your best. It will also help boost your self-confidence while wearing less - and don’t forget the sunscreen!

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 | 21

TEN PHOTOS: Sher Pruitt:

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DOGWOOD FESTIVAL PHOTOS: Sher Pruitt:

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STARS PARTY AT BILTMORE BALLROOMS PHOTOS: Sher Pruitt

PLEASE CHECK OUT FACEBOOK AND OUR WEBSITE FOR MORE PHOTOS 26 | 04.25.18

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Joshua is from Maine but moved to Atlanta in 2004. You may know him from his 7+ years at Swinging as a dancer, then bartender. Joshua works as a branding executive and was newly elected Director of Marketing for Joining Hearts. He also writes and publishes speculative fiction through his own Bearded Scribe Press. Outside of his incredibly busy schedule, Joshua enjoys cooking and entertaining, traveling, dancing, and spending time with friends and his dog, Marvin, and his fiancĂŠ, Emerich.

Joshua Allen Mercier

Seconds and Thirds

By:Gregg Shapiro

It’s best to get this tidbit out of the way first; Greta Kline, best known as singer/songwriter Frankie Cosmos is the daughter of actors Kevin Kline and Phoebe Cates. We know her father can sing because he was on Broadway in Pirates of Penzance (alongside Linda Ronstadt!), but we haven’t had the dance to hear her mother belt one out. Genetics aside, Vessel (Sub Pop), the third Frankie Cosmos album in four years, is as much an original artistic statement as it is an homage to her forebears Liz Phair and artists on the K Records roster.

These 18 irresistible songs (run-time 34 minutes), including the wondrous title track, “Accommodate”, “Cafeteria”, “This Stuff”, “Apathy”, “Caramelize”, “Being Alive” and “Same Thing” are a celebration of the economy of poetic language.

Almost everything you need to know about Caroline Rose can be heard on “More of the Same”, the extraordinary opening track on Loner (New West), Rose’s third album. There is humor, sensitivity, insight and an Op-1 keyboard; the combo is intoxicating. It’s an honest indication of what follows on songs that incorporate updated retro new wave sensibilities (“Cry!”), outrageous funk (“Jeannie Becomes A Mom”, “Talk”), 21st century sixties revival (“Bikini”, “Money”, “Soul No. 5”, “Animal”) and perfect pop (“Getting To Me”).

Without a doubt, one of the best albums of 2018 thus far.

Don’t let George Ezra’s booming baritone distract you.

The adorable Brit singer/songwriter, who featured Sir Ian McKellan in one of his music videos, is only in his mid-20s; much younger than he sounds. There’s also a maturity to his songwriting on the 11 songs heard on his second album Staying at Tamara’s (Columbia) that belies his years. If it was Ezra’s 2014 breakout single “Budapest” that initially caught your attention, the good news is that there are enough songs on Staying at Tamara’s that live up to those on his first album Wanted on Voyage.

“Paradise”, “Pretty Shiny People”, “Get Away”, “The Beautiful Dream” and “Only A Human” are among the best to be found here.

30 | 04.25.18

Valerie June calls her sound “organic moonshine roots music” and it fits. Her take on the modern Memphis style is in full effect on her second solo disc, The Order of Time (Concord). Equally haunting and exhilarating, the 12 songs beautifully highlight Valerie June’s unique vocals and her talents as a songwriter.

This distinctive combination is best exemplified on “Astral Plane”, “If And”, the aptly named “Got Soul” and the rocking “Shakedown”.

Let’s face it, there’s so much music being released these days that it’s easy to overlook some of the best. Coming from the piano/vocal tradition that includes Carole King, Laura Nyro and Tori Amos, Jillette Johnson made her debut in 2013 with the wonderful Water in a Whale album that featured the song “Cameron” about a queer kid. The follow-up, All I Ever See in You is Me (Rounder), released last year, lives up to the promise of her first disc.

Johnson is something of a triple threat – she has a powerful and emotive singing voice, she’s a gifted pianist and she writes memorable songs.

All three of those attributes come through on songs such as “Throw Out Your Mirror”, “Bunny”, “Like You Raised Me”, “Flip A Coin” and “In Repair”.

With his inclination towards a retro pop sound on Make Way for Love (Dead Oceans), singer/songwriter Marlon Williams could be the New Zealand male version of the previously mentioned Caroline Rose. Williams’ soulful voice, which at times crosses over into Anohni territory, serves songs such as “What’s Chasing You”, “Beautiful Dress”, “Love Is a Terrible Thing”, “Can I Call You”, “Make Way For Love” and “Nobody Gets What They Want Anymore” (featuring the above-mentioned Aldous Harding) very well. In spite of the vintage vibe, Williams is very much a contemporary artist as you can hear on “Party Boy”.

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

DEEP END APRIL 27 6 - 9 PM

Thick, Not Wasted or How to Love the Shape of Your Container

By Scott King

Somebody was at my apartment. We had had a nice time. It was time for him to go.

titans of the dancefloor. That’s life. Or so I thought.

I was sitting on my favorite couch in a slimming pair of Calvins, waiting patiently while my new friend gathered his clothes and put himself back together.

I was determined not to molest or fondle my phone, which was feet away and blowing up after at least half an hour’s worth of inattention.

After my epiphany in Calvins, I realized that everyone has the potential to dislike themselves because of a physical flaw that keeps them from fulfilling their fantasy of being crowned Mr. Universal Sex Symbol Du Jour. But that’s bullshit. Goldie Hawn laments her skinny ankles, and Marilyn Monroe lived in terror that everyone would discover she was a fraud.

It would be rude not to spend the last few minutes with my guest completely present. Once he had dotted his eyes and crossed his laces, he approached the sofa, stooped over, bent down and kissed me deeply, sweetly, and briefly. He lingered.

That brief, sunlit tryst in my apartment changed the way I looked at my body and my persona. I walked into rooms expecting people to be in awe of and intimidated by my thick-waisted figure. I was a man of substance. Of gravitas. Of import.

“What is it about you?” he pondered. “You’re so hot.”

For the next six months, there was basically a waiting list to touch my penis. I’m not saying this to brag; I’m just saying this to say, knowing you are sexy is sexy. Even people whom I don’t think are sexy but who THINK they are sexy, are sexy.

“I don’t know. What is it?”

My response was coy and insincere. I hadn’t yet learned how to take a compliment, and I wasn’t sure what was going on.

“It’s like ... it’s like ... you’re thick-waisted.” Totally.

My bodhisattva of a lover exited stage Grindr, and I was left with the light bulb burning. The light bulb of an idea. The idea that I was attractive not despite my current physical form, but because of it.

Since I had quit smoking several years before, I had turned what was left of my baby fat into something more attractive and sinuous: muscle tone. But my Greek god status had stalled out a couple of years into my smoke-free training. I loved food and carbs as much as I loved remix albums, punk rock compilations, and going through the motions at the gym.

Though my body was in decent, healthy shape, and I felt attractive, the icy pangs of insecurity still hit whenever I looked at a young, queerbaiting pro wrestler’s Instagram.

Sometimes I would go out to the club feeling fresh, but it would all fall apart when I was faced with the svelte 34 | 04.25.18

I have to admit it. It’s like, damn boo, you ARE sexy. I hate you, and you’re ugly, but you’re sexy. Checkmate, gurl.

The thick-waisted compliment only lasted so long. I had to find other things, both inside and outside of myself, to bolster my confidence. It’s part of growth.

It’s part of being alive. It’s part of interacting with a dynamic, modern, and fluid society. It’s also fun.

Writing this piece makes me feel sexy. Being good at my other jobs makes me feel confident, sexy, and vital.

Talking to strangers for no reason and with no ulterior motive makes me feel sexy. And alive.

Being alive is fabulous, so love the life and body, you’re in. It’s the only one you have. For now.

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.

As a part of our mission to help friends keep friends, we are opening our doors in 2018 to anyone needing to get their pet vaccinated and heartworm tested.

Not only is this a great deal for you, it is also a fundraiser for PALS Atlanta!!

Vaccine Clinic Pricing Full veterinary exam - FREE Dog or Cat Rabies Shot - $15 Dog or Cat Combo Shot - $15 Bordatella vaccination (dogs only) - $15 Heartworm testing (dogs only) - $25 Full year supply of heartworm medication AND a full year of flea/tick preventative - $100 (requires current negative heartworm test)

Even the Baby Steps Matter

By Jamie Kirk

One of the easiest emotions to have is jealousy. One of the most common emotions is fear. One of the hardest emotions to get over is envy. Yet, one of the emotions we rarely are comfortable expressing or feeling is joy.

The season of summer is fast approaching. Things should be lighter, our moods a little brighter and vacations should be taken. The gyms are a bit more packed.

The Beltline is a little more crowded. This is most definitely the time to lighten our loads and become a little bit more free-er in our thinking and our lives.

As we begin to take on the task of taking life a little less seriously, we have got to shift our thought processes and align our thoughts with little nuggets that don’t wear us down. And by wearing us down I mean mentally, emotionally, or physically.

Step 1 - Think Happy Thoughts I know that seems soooooo cliche, but it’s true. Only think things that you want to manifest. Focus your energy and thought process on things you want TO happen, not around things you do NOT want to happen.

Step 2 - Surround Yourself with Positive Stuff Meaning positive people. Positive places and positive things. If you are wondering what a positive place looks like, it’s a place that you want to visit, a place that you visualize calmness. Use a stock photo and put it as your wallpaper on your phone. Place it nearby. Get fresh flowers every week. Write down positive words and put them in your pocket, on the dash of your car or in your backpack. You want to have positive influences near and dear to your daily routine.

Step 3 - Break the Routines Break the same ole patterns. Take Marta, ride your bike to work, run a new route, walk to school. Breaking the routine is important because it requires that you think and takes you off autopilot. It allows you to acknowledge new things you may overlook and don’t appreciate.

36 | 04.25.18

Step 4 - Be Happy for Others Make it a point to do extra “likes” for a week or two on social media. Just go through and like crap that you normally would bypass. Instead of being jealous or envious of someone’s body, hair, tan, “member” (looks shy), home, car, etc., actually be happy for them. Step back, it’s just surface stuff and create a plan to get it - if you want it. Keep in mind, we’re all different, and it may not be in your cards to have it - don’t worry about trying to change something you have no control over. You will just end up frustrated, and our goal is to be light.

Step 5 - Focus On What’s Working There is lots of stuff going right in our lives that we do not give enough attention. We tend to go to that commonplace of “if only” and “why don’t I” or “how come.” It is important to shift our thinking to overcome the negative self-talk and override the thoughts of lack, with thoughts of gratitude. Being grateful and showing appreciation for what we have costs nothing. If we align our thoughts and focused energy on how blessed we are, it’s the law of attraction; we will attract more to be grateful for!

I am no perfect citizen walking around smiling regardless of the state I am in or even being kind to strangers.

I can’t even honestly promise I will practice the “tidbits” from this column. But I can 100% commit to trying.

Simply put, just trying to be a better human being by making daily strides at “getting it right.” We don’t have to be jealous, envious or fearful that our lives are off track, or not as meaningful as we once thought it would be. Let’s try to celebrate ourselves and others this upcoming season and lighten our loads.

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

Apr 25 – May 2

WHEN LOVE TAKEs OVER Presents Saturnalia

LEWK with Lucy Stoole!

Chicago’s bearded beauty, Lucy Stoole, will be taking over My Sister’s Room for a night of music, performance, Kick off the Saturnalia festivities with a special Yappy and sickening queer energy! Performances by Lucy Hour where portions of the proceeds from specialty Stoole and Brigitte Bidet. cocktails benefit PALS Atlanta.

Friday, April 27, 6-9pm The Deep End STAFF PICK!

Saturday, April 28 My Sister’s Room

Saturnalia – Atlanta’s Newest Party Kick off Atlanta’s newest party, Saturnalia, and savor amazing sounds, DJs, and incredible visuals all in the spirit of the god Saturn and celebrating all the pleasures of life. Tickets and info at saturnaliaparty.com. Portions of the proceeds benefit PALS Atlanta.

Saturday, April 28 595 North Event Center

Change of Seasons: This is Me

Good Witches Bad Bitches Ball

Joining Hearts brings back its renowned Change of Sea- A Harry Potter Themed fundraiser for Lost N Found sons event and presents an event inspired by the Great- Youth! Grab your wand and get ready to work some est Showman while you dance to the beats of DJ Eddie Magic!

Martinez, and Atlanta’s own, DJ Mike Pope. 100% of admission donations ($22) will go directly to Joining Hearts. Saturday, April 28 Tickets at Eventbrite or via the FB page.

Saturday, April 28 The Heretic 38 | 04.25.18

Atlanta Eagle

ATLANTA EAGLE LEATHER PRIDE PHOTOS: Kevin Bennett

40 | 04.25.18

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

BEAR BITES AT BLAKE'S PHOTOS: Sher Pruitt

44 | 04.25.18

SmartCare Welcomes Dr. John Destito as Our New Medical Director.

www.smartcareuc.com 46 | 04.25.18

Good Boys take their Mothers to Einstein’s...

& Bad Boys take their Mothers to Joe’s On Juniper!

Either way, make her proud and take her out this Mother’s Day! visit www.einsteinsatlanta.com to make a reservation

BEARS AND BEERS AT WOOFS PHOTOS: Sher Pruitt

PLEASE CHECK OUT FACEBOOK AND OUR WEBSITE FOR MORE PHOTOS 48 | 04.25.18

MIDTOWN 1

Monroe Dr. NE

14

Amsterdam Ave.

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Piedmont Park

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6 12th St. NE

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Juniper St. NE

14th St. NE

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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

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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

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Ponce De Leon Pl. NE

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76 4th St. NW

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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

’ 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

NE

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BJ Roosters Opus 1 Tripps Woof's

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1600 Piedmont Ave NE 1425 Piedmont Ave NE

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1529 Piedmont Ave, Suite L

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

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Bars & Clubs

OSCAR’S

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1510 Piedmont Ave NE

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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

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SISTER LOUISA’S CHURCH

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BARKING LEATHER

466 Edgewood Ave SE

SWINGING RICHARDS

barkingleather.com 805 Lambert Dr NE

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66 12th St NE

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MY SISTER’S ROOM mysistersroom.com

tenatlanta.com

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GCB & PLEASURES

990 Piedmont Ave NE

EINSTEIN’S

brushstrokesatlanta.com 1510 Piedmont Ave. NE

CHESHIRE HERETIC hereticatlanta.com 2069 Cheshire Bridge Road

einsteinsatlanta.com 1077 Juniper St NE

FROGS CANTINA frogsmidtown.com 931 Monroe Dr

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Fitness MIDTOWN URBAN BODY FITNESS urbanbodyfitness.com 500 Amsterdam Ave NE

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OPUS 1

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GRAVITEE FITNESS

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TRIPPS 1931 Piedmont Circle N

WOOFS woofsatlanta.com 2425 Piedmont Road NE

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FELIX’S 1510 Piedmont Ave NE

THE HIDEAWAY 1544 Piedmont Ave NE

MIXX mixxatlanta.com 1492 Piedmont Ave NE

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LA HACIENDA

CHESHIRE

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MIDTOWN

CHESHIRE

flexspas.com 76 4th St NW

LAS MARGARITAS

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10 SONGS TO KICKSTART YOUR SUMMER VIBE SING ALONG FOR A LITTLE SUNSHINE IN YOUR HEART!

Dennis Lloyd – Nevermind

Janelle Monae – Pynk

Kylie Minogue – Golden Nicki Minaj – Chun-Li

Bebe Rexha FerrariD

Carrie Underwood – Cry Pretty

Lil Pump – Esskeetit Sofi Tukker – Best FriendCajmere – Satisfy

Calvin Harris - Summer 54 | 04.25.18

Sunday Funday = Playmates and soul mates...

MISERABLE MONDAY

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20% Off Your first visit Promo code: davidmag 404.939.7666 | replenishIV.com | Hours: 10am-6pm 549-6 Amsterdam Avenue NE | Atlanta, GA 30306

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peachATL.com | 55

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

I can’t stop watching Beychella FYI: A carrot does not provide the same satisfying crunch as a potato chip.

Me: Look at his full beard!

Gorgeous!

Him: Be mindful of the shave effect!

Asking for a friend: Doesn’t warmer weather and flip-flops merit a pedicure? Or at least that your feet don’t look like hooves?

Me: The shave what?

Him: He may look like Thor with the beard but like Pewee Herman without it…

Today I witnessed someone catch their man bun in a door. There is a lesson to be learnt here, people!

Have we decided what season we’re doing today?Is it Fall maybe?

Just because you can match your socks to your belt, it doesn’t mean you all of a sudden have style.

Keep an eye out for those that just want to use you. They are everywhere and often will smile as they slide the knife in.

She’s feeling very Rambunctious and Ready to tango today!

56 | 04.25.18

ARIES (MAR. 21 - APR. 19)

LIBRA (SEP. 23 - OCT. 22)

Your moods will be ignitable this week. Couple that with a hectic day or two and spontaneous combustion is a very real possibility. Keep cool, diamond dog, because it’s embarrassing to lose it in public.

Sure, it always makes you feel better, but it’s still embarrassing.

Don’t obsess over relationships if you’re a single guy.

Haven’t you ever heard that the grass is never greener yada, yada, yada? Enjoy being single while you can, and don’t be in such a hurry. The money you’ll save on years of couple’s therapy alone will make it all worth it.

TAURUS (APR. 20 - MAY 20)

SCORPIO (OCT. 23 - NOV. 21)

Don’t be sad about another busted romance, as there’s always another one right around the corner.

Romance, that is. That, yes, will probably end up busted. It may seem like you’re stuck in a vortex, but this curious cycle must end some time. They can’t all be Mr. Wrong.

Don’t do anything butch or manly like tune up your car or work with power tools this week. The possibility of debilitating injury is only a hedge cutter away. Breaking a nail while fixing the plumbing in the bathroom could keep your out of macramé class for weeks.

GEMINI (MAY 21 - JUN. 20)

SAGITTARIUS (NOV. 22 - DEC. 21)

Listen to the advice of friends this week, but don’t act on that alone. They only know so much about your personal situation, and only you know the rest.

See how your gut feels, since it rarely lies, and then act. Sometimes you just have to solve things yourself.

This week will be fun, and you won’t believe how much you’ll get done! This will leave spare time for flirting with the UPS guy, gossiping with the gals in accounting or bidding online for a Burberry man purse. Why can’t work be this much fun all the time? Ponder this as you leave early.

CANCER (JUN. 21 - JUL. 22)

CAPRICORN (DEC. 22 - JAN. 19)

Seek out the company of those who share your personality traits this week. This way everyone will agree with each other, and no one will be surprised by emotional outbursts or dark moods. But too many of you can get the water boiling, and that’s not going to be good for anybody.

Cancel dinner plans and postpone coffee dates for tonight. You’ll be gripped by a strong urge to be alone and there won’t be a man handsome or rich enough to keep you from that. Well, there may be one thing to lure you out, but you’re not willing to do the work required to find out.

LEO (JUL. 23 - AUG. 22)

AQUARIUS (JAN. 20 - FEB. 18)

You see fiery potential in a new guy in your life. He smolders and simmers and you can see things getting quite hot. But remember that everything that glows eventually dims, and then you’re stuck with something lukewarm, tepid, and no longer of any use.

It’s tough selling advanced ideas to prehistoric minds.

That’s what you may face at work this week. It may be time to start thinking about changing jobs or careers.

Keep a job search on the down low, but be prepared to bolt faster than Elton John from paparazzi should the right offer come along.

VIRGO (AUG. 23 - SEP. 22)

PISCES (FEB. 19 - MAR. 20)

Problems with coworkers could reach a boiling point. It may be time for a mediator, someone other than your boss to help you work it out. Because escalating tensions will lead to a public catfight, and with the way you two have been sharpening those claws, it ain’t gonna be pretty.

Trying to work through the fog in your head will belike trying to figure out the relevance of Kim Kardashian.

That’s right, a complete waste of time. Try your best to get through a trying day. After work, engage in the type of brainless activities that only the Internet can offer in such abundance.

58 | 04.25.18

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.

Is there anything I can do to change this? I can’t change my skin color, but how can I change people’s minds?

I have a friend who is hopelessly in love with his ex. It’s not just normal break-up heartbreak but grounded in a profound fear of being alone. He recently started hanging out with his ex again, and he even took his ex out for his birthday with the guy who broke up the relationship between them! He says he can’t help it even though it nearly kills him to see his ex with this new guy who also has a quite terrible personality. I really want to help him and offer him advice on how to move on – what can I do?

Dear Discriminated

Sincerely Troubled Friend Dear Troubled Friend It is very tough watching your friends making bad choices and decisions, and you are very sweet for wanting to intervene in your friend’s destructive behavior. The downside is that this is his battle and he has to face it on his own and learn to live with the consequences. The upside is that you can be his support throughout the whole thing, and you can offer him advice when his vision is blurred by overwhelming emotions. By the shoulder to cry on and the one that listens to his tale of heartbreak. In time – and with your support – he will realize that he needs to move on and that his current actions are having a very negative effect on his life. Yes, it is troubling to see you friend suffer, and the best you can do is to be the best friend possible to him.

As a black, gay man I only experience racism on occasion when I’m out at bars and clubs, but it does happen. But where racism is increasingly rampant is when it comes to dating – either through apps or in person. More and more guys are laying out an entire menu of what they want – and don’t want! And they don’t mind saying ‘no blacks’ or something to that extent, plus if I approach someone on an app, I’m often shut down with more or less direct reference to my skin color. The same goes for when I go on dates (with white guys); it only goes so far and then it is shut down – and I’m pretty certain it is related to my skin color. I so wish this cycle could be broken and that people wouldn’t discriminate like this – especially when you’re on the receiving end of it!

60 | 04.25.18

Sincerely Discriminated Yes, racism is still very much a factor in our society and community. What you are doing is exactly right – you are bringing the issue to everybody’s attention and hopefully starting a conversation about it. Call people out when they are discriminatory and report people’s profiles if it is overtly racist. You have every right to do so! And for those guys who date you but don’t follow through based on racial biases?

Talk to them, let them know how you feel about – and then let them go. They don’t deserve you. You’d be surprised at how much you can change by starting a dialogue and making the unfamiliar familiar. It is one of the most powerful ways we have to address biases and misconceptions.

I have this fantasy about hooking up with total strangers, and it is something I really want to do. But how? I feel like my shyness will get in the way. I need some pointers.

Sincerely Hook’Em Dear Hook’Em First of all, you don’t have to act on a fantasy – maybe it’s supposed to remain a fantasy for the time being until you feel ready to do random hookups. Second of all, you say total strangers, so these are not people in your friend’s circle that you want to have casual sex with. If it is total strangers you need to use caution and rely heavily on your gut instincts. You need to feel safe at all times so if there’s even the slightest sketchiness don’t meet them, don’t go into their house, don’t have them over. Always let a friend know what you are doing so they can check in on you too. If you really crave sex with strangers, maybe you should opt for a sex party or club where you’ll have plenty of options to hook up anonymously.

Just remember to be safe at all times, and don’t engage in something you don’t want to do. You can always walk away, and you should never feel forced. Finally, you can hook up digitally with strangers. It can be just as exciting and give you the same relief – and staying anonymous is as easy as shutting off your phone.

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