Peach Magazine - Black Gay Pride 2018

Where’s the Party For Pride & Labor Day

Real Talk For a Positive Change

Asia O’Hara Takes The Throne Screen Savor Skate Kitchen

CONTENTS AUGUST 29, 2018

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From the Editor I case you haven’t noticed; we are in for a pretty epic holiday weekend. Labor Day weekend extends the party with a whole additional day, so get ready for some big parties and an extended Sunday Funday too – check out the lineup on page 16.

Dragon Con will also be happening downtown with all of its crazy and creative cosplay fun, but even bigger than that is the celebration of Black Gay Pride that will take over the city with workshops, seminars, and above all, huge parties that celebrate the black LGBTQ community in Atlanta and beyond. Check out our lineup on page 18, and don’t miss the op-ed by Percy Brown (page 20), and the column by Jamie Kirk (page 30) that dig deeper into what Black Gay Pride represents.

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CONTRIBUTORS

Percy Brown Len Evans/Project Publicity Jamie Kirk Branden Lee

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Add to that a new edition of New Gay In Town, an enlightening Q&A, and Asia O’Hara’s musical debut plus much more, and you have another incredible issue of Peach in your hands!

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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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Cirque du Soleil Presents Corteo Cirque du Soleil revisits Atlanta with their groundbreaking concept that always manages to take the plethora of acts to unimaginable levels. This time Cirque du Soliel presents Corteo – a Mediterranean-inspired show seen through the mind of a clown.

Corteo, which means cortege in Italian, is a joyous procession, a festive parade imagined by a clown. The show brings together the passion of the actor with the grace and power of the acrobat to plunge the audience into a theatrical world of fun, comedy, and spontaneity situated in a mysterious space between heaven and earth.

The clown pictures his own funeral taking place in a carnival atmosphere, watched over by quietly caring angels. Juxtaposing the large with the small, the ridiculous with the tragic and the magic of perfection with the charm of imperfection, the show highlights the strength and fragility of the clown, as well as his wisdom and kindness, to illustrate the portion of humanity that is within each of us. The music turns lyrical and playful carrying Corteo through a timeless celebration in which illusion teases reality.

The What, When and Where!

What: Cirque du Soleil Presents Corteo When: August 29 – September 2, 2018 Where: Infinite Energy Center, Duluth, Georgia Tickets via axs.com – and look for ticket giveaways on Peach’s Facebook page!

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NEW GAY IN TOWN: No Boyfriends During Black Gay Pride

By Branden Lee Branden Lee is a writer and actor living in Atlanta. Follow Branden on Instagram and Twitter @Brandensss. Watch Branden on his YouTube channel SexxxPerTease.

10 | 08.29.18

Black Gay Pride in Atlanta is one of the biggest Black Gay Pride celebrations in the country. Atlanta is the black gay mecca. Even when it’s not gay pride, so many gay black men flock to the ATL for weekends of debauchery and fun. So many black gay men from all walks of life move to Atlanta for a better life. I was one of them, and my life has definitely gotten better since moving to Atlanta. So, of course, celebrating Black Gay Pride is a must every Labor Day weekend.

I experienced not only my first Black Gay Pride in Atlanta last year, but it was my first Black Gay Pride I’ve ever been too. It was an astounding weekend of clubbing, debauchery, cheating on my boyfriend, having multiple threesomes with my now ex-boyfriend, and just an overall shitshow.

I definitely don’t want to have as much drama this year as last year, which is why I think it’s best to experience Black Gay Pride single. I’ve been all about Slutty Summer this year, and I did take some time off this month to try out monogamy again. Of course, that didn’t last long. I don’t know if it’s because I just don’t like being monogamous since it makes me feel trapped, and I thrive on feeling free to do whatever I want whenever I want.

Also, things with Boytoy just seemed to fizzle. He got depressed, wasn’t working, stressed about life, and his strife was bringing me down. Plus everything he was going through was exactly what I experienced with my ex, and I don’t want to relive that hellish relationship.

It’s summer, Slutty Summer. I should be enjoying being young, wild, and free. Plus I won’t have to worry about

cheating on Boytoy since he’s no longer in the picture. I’m single. I can enjoy Black Gay Pride. I can do whatever, whoever, whenever I want! That’s exactly how things should be.

Summer 2018 in general. Might as well live it up. This was my first full summer in Atlanta since I moved here in mid-July 2017. I’ve had a great summer so far.

Fall is the best time to get a boyfriend anyway. If Boytoy and I weren’t meant to be then oh well. Sometimes you find someone at the wrong time when you both aren’t ready for a serious relationship. I honestly feel like I’m not ready for one, especially not with a guy that’s exactly like my ex which just reminds me of a past I have no interest in revisiting.

I’ve had dates, lovers, hangouts, new friends, adventures, work, staying booked and busy, and enjoying life in general. I’ve been in Atlanta over a year, so it’s home. This is my city. It was a tumultuous first year, and my past relationship dominated that. I’m finally free, over my ex, and ingrained into the city. I’m ready for my new beginnings.

I do still need to figure out what’s happening during Black Gay Pride weekend, but I’m excited about all the festivities. I have made new friends since last year, so I’ll at least have people to go out with. I also have past lovers coming to town to visit, so maybe we’ll have some more fun while they’re in Atlanta.

Black Gay Pride is the time to celebrate everything. Celebrate my sexuality, my race, my freedom, and to celebrate being alive.

I do have work and filming Black Gay Pride weekend though, so I guess I can’t get buckwild every night. I sure will try though. It’s been a long, hot, exhausting summer. Black Gay Pride is the finale of Slutty Summer and

Too many expectations for a big event does tend to lead to disappointment, but I’m not expecting anything really. Except to enjoy the weekend, and make this year’s Black Gay Pride better than last year’s debacle. As long as I’m single, then I know I don’t have to worry about repeating those same mistakes. Since boyfriends and Black Gay Pride weekend don’t mix.

peachATL.com | 11

Real Talk For a Positive Change

By Mik Hyldebrandt

As the Executive Director of Real Bois Talk, Inc., Amber Moore provides a vehicle for African American Masculine Identified Gay Females to find resources, address health issues as well as empower the image that African American Masculine Identified Gay Females have of themselves and in the community. Peach talked to Amber about the upcoming Black Gay Pride celebrations.

Tell us about Real Bois Talk, Inc.?

Real Bois Talk, Inc. is to educate and bring awareness to health disparities among African American Masculine Identified Gay Females. We want to create a space of positive energy, positive images, and positive health among the African American Masculine Identified Gay Females.

What is your role and how are you connected to Black Gay Pride?

My role is a networker. I have used my networking experience and skills to connect the African American Masculine Identified Gay Females with the LGBT Greek community by hosting every year the LGBT Greek Brunch. This is the first year Real Bois Talk, Inc. has stepped out to embark on the next level and bring you the LGBT Greek Weekend. I believe that connecting all these communities support the vision of Real Bois Talk, Inc. Especially, since Atlanta Black Pride is 23 years, we are proud to be able to sit at the table as a partner with them. I believe it forges the motto “We are empowering, educating and celebrating the Black LGBT community.”

Can you highlight a few of the events that will happen over the weekend?

This is our LGBT Greek Weekend, and we have several events: • The 8th Annual LGBT Greek Meet & Greet Brunch (08/01 @ The Dennard Conference Center @ Atlanta Technical College)

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• The 1st Annual LGBT Greek Expo (08/01 @ The Dennard Conference Center @ Atlanta Technical College) • 1st Annual GREEKS IN THE PARK (08/02 @ CANDLER PARK)

Why do you think it is important to celebrate Black Gay Pride?

I believe that Black Gay pride is not all about parties, but it is important to show and celebrate the diversity within the Black LGBT community. It is also an opportunity to educate those that are allies or those that aren’t in the LGBT community whether black or white. It is also important because it provides resources that some LGBT blacks don’t have access to. I believe that it is possibly the only place that many get healed from the ignorant world we live in. For some, it is an opportunity to see others like them and to know that there are people that will celebrate them walking in their truth. Atlanta Black Gay Pride is all about empowering, educating and celebrating our Black LGBT community which makes a perfect fit for Real Bois Talk, Inc. to partner with.

What do you wish to change or impact with Real Bois Talk?

I want the impact of Real Bois Talk to show the diversity of the African American Masculine Identified Gay Females in a positive light. I want the impact of Real Bois Talk to promote the talents of the African American Masculine Identified Gay Females through our website and Facebook page.

I want the impact of Real Bois Talk to be a vehicle for resources for the African American Masculine Identified Gay Females and others in the LGBT community.

Check out realboistalk.org for more information and upcoming events.

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What’s Cooking?

By Gregg Shapiro *The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the opinion or position of Peach.

Award-winning filmmaker Crystal Moselle makes her dramatic feature directing debut with “Skate Kitchen” (Magnolia). While it’s at least 20 minutes too long, “Skate Kitchen” is nevertheless worth seeing for the performances Moselle gets out of her cast of mostly newcomers.

Camille (Rachelle Vinberg), a socially-awkward 18-year-old, lives with her single mother (Elizabeth Rodriguez from “Orange Is The New Black”) on Long Island. She enjoys going to the skateboard park and working on her skating skills.

She also posts videos of herself skateboarding on Instagram. When she takes a serious fall at the local skateboard park, getting banged up and “credit carded” in her genital region, she is treated by a gynecologist in the emergency room. Her overprotective mother’s main concern is that she might have done something to herself that would affect her ability to have children.

On the day Camille has her stitches removed, her mother makes her promise she won’t skate anymore. Camille acquiesces, but as soon as her mother leaves for work, she catches a train into the city with her skateboard in hand. At a Lower East Side skate park she meets Kurt (Nina Moran), a baby butch who follows her on Instagram, telling the other female skaters, Janay (Ardelia Lovelace), Indigo and photographer Ruby (Kabrina Adams) that Camille is “mad good”.

As she connects with these other young female skaters, we see Camille transform before our eyes.

She has found her crew and a place to belong.

Pretty soon, she’s sneaking out of the house with her skateboard on a regular basis and hanging out with her new “Skate Kitchen” friends.

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Camille is aware she’s not as cool as the others; she doesn’t get high, she’s not a hugger; she’s naïve.

But it’s her talent on a skateboard that guarantees her a place in the group.

Just as things begin to go well for her, conflicts arise. She misses the last train home from the city, get home late and fights with her mother, who then takes her board away. This doesn’t stop Camille from returning to the city where one of the boy skaters is nice enough to give her a board. Camille doesn’t answer her mother’s calls to her cell. She begins to stay at Janay’s house.

Things escalate when her mother comes to the skate park, embarrassing and then slapping Camille.

Camille packs her things and leaves home for good.

Unfortunately, Camille’s life becomes complicated again when she becomes attracted to Devon (Jaden Smith), a photographer, skateboarder and stock clerk at the supermarket where she works. Devon, as it turns out, is the heartbreaker ex-boyfriend of Janay. When word gets out that they’ve been hanging out together, Camille’s newfound social world comes crashing down on her.

While some potentially bleak scenarios arise, it’s not all doom and gloom. Camille is able to mend the broken wheels in her life and live to skate another day.

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By Mikkel Hyldebrandt The massive celebration of diversity involves not only the black LGBTQ community, but all friends, allies, family, and supporters. Through seminars, workshops, festivals, and, of course, epic parties throughout the day and night it is no wonder that Black Gay Pride in Atlanta attracts people in the tens of thousands. Here is a lineup of some of the many events and parties that will take place during this long holiday weekend.

Thursday - August 30 VIP Welcome Reception - 6pm-9pm, Georgian Terrace Welcome to Labor Ray Rock - 10pm-3am, Aurum Kickoff Party – event location TBA

Friday - August 31 Vendor Market Place, 11 am – 6 pm, Georgian Terrace Hotel The Pregame Mixer, 5-9pm, Truth 100 Men Strong Dinner & Mixer, 7-10pm, Georgian Terrace Hotel Hotlanta Party, 10pm-5am, Georgian Terrace Hotel Hotlanta – 10pm-5am, Georgian Terrace Hotel Revel “Ape Shit” Party – 10pm-3am, Revel We Lit – 12-6am at Southern Mill (address revealed the week of)

Saturday - September 1 1ST Annual LGBT Greek Expo - 1-6pm, The Dennard Convention Center Atlanta Technical College Vendor Market Place, 11 am– 6 pm, Georgian Terrace Hotel The Ultimate Day Party - 5-9pm, Aurum Saturday Night Live - 10pm-4am, Opera Day Party – 6-10 pm, event location TBA Official Main Event – 12-6am at The Dock (address revealed the week of) Labor Ray Rock - 10pm-3am, Georgian Terrace Hotel 10th Annual “All White Party” For The Mature Women Who Love Mature Women - 10pm - 3am, 595 North Avenue

Sunday - September 2 Men who Brunch - 12-3pm, Cirque Bar & Grill Pure Heat Community Festival – 12-8 pm, Piedmont Park 1ST Annual LGBT Greek Picnic -12-7pm, Candler Park Atlanta Black Gay Pride Fashion Show - 8-11pm, Marriott Buckhead HEIR: Atlanta Black Gay Pride 2018 – 10pm-3am, Havana Club Official Grand Finale – 12-6am at Zone Megaplex (address revealed the week of)

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Labor Day Party Lineup

By Mikkel Hyldebrandt

A long holiday weekend calls for even more parties!

It’s a time to let loose and have a little hard-earned frolicking and fun – and thankfully Atlanta’s nightlife is here to make sure you have a good time. Here is a lineup of some of the party events going on this weekend.

Friday – August 31 Labor Day Kick Off with DJ Mike Pope – 10pm-3am (no cover), The Heretic ONYX Southeast with DJ Ron Pullman – 10pm-3am (no cover), The Atlanta Eagle Celestial Friday Black Gay Pride Edition – 11pm, Blake’s on the Park

Saturday – September 1 Heyday 80s Dance Party - 10pm-3am, The Basement Bear Invasion with DJ Deanne – 10pm – 3am, The Heretic Saturday POP! with DJ Sean Michaels – 10pm, Blake’s on the Park

Sunday – September 2 Labor Day Sunday with DJ Dani Toro – 10pm-3am, The Heretic House In The Park 14 – 12-8pm, Friends of Grant Park Recreation Center End of Summer Patio Party, 4pm-?, TEN Atlanta Supersize Sunday – 8:30pm, Blake’s on the Park Cherry Bomb – 11pm, Midtown Moon

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Celebrating Black Gay Pride

By Percy Brown

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I can’t remember attending my first black gay pride, but there are memories that remind me of why black gay pride exists and is necessary.

A few years ago, I was in a local gay bar for an after-work happy hour with a group of mostly white gay male colleagues.

The light-hearted conversation shifted to our plans for Labor Day weekend, and I mentioned hosting friends flying in for Atlanta Black Gay Pride. All of a sudden, I hear a voice pipe up from outside of our small cluster. “Why do THEY get to have their own pride?”

The group all turned in my direction with looks of pain and surprise. They understood the intent of the question being asked and its underlying subtext. However, they refused to call out the bar patron, perhaps because they had asked the same question.

The question’s intent brushed against a familiar subject; a subject that they didn’t want to acknowledge, even as it stared them directly in the face.

This wasn’t my first time having to address race in a predominately white LGBT space, and this certainly would not be my last. As a black man, it’s always moments like these that make you take notice of your surroundings. You’re quickly reminded you have to fend for yourself, especially in white spaces or with white faces who refuse to address the elephant in the room.

Still in the moment, and powered by my second gin and tonic, I craned around a white body to say, “we have our own pride because of what you just said!” The man looked at me, shook his head, and continued to sip his drink. I wasn’t aiming to change his mind at that moment - I simply wanted to be heard.

The next day, I gathered my friends in town for Atlanta Black Gay Pride for brunch.

Our group of black men spent almost three hours catching up on each other’s lives – sharing work stories, toasting promotions,

speaking words of encouragement, but more importantly just sitting and laughing together. There was even a point where a familiar 90s R&B jam came on in the restaurant and singalong broke out at our table. This was what I needed. For the rest of the weekend, we lived in a bubble where we were our most unencumbered selves.

That memory of being surrounded by a loving and affirming community with other black gay men defined what black gay pride meant to me. An opportunity to simply, be.

Black gay pride grew out a 1988 Los Angeles beach gathering by black gay men who dared to celebrate the wholeness of their identity. Since then, black gay pride events have spread across the country to carve out a space to unite black lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender people in celebration of themselves. This weekend’s Atlanta’s Black Gay Pride is one of the largest events in the U.S. and continues to not only be relevant, but necessary.

As we see more outward recognition from the larger LGBTQ movement of our black heroes who stood on the frontlines – Marsha P. Johnson, Bayard Rustin, Audre Lorde, James Baldwin, and many others - there is still a struggle to ensure mainstream pride celebrations are fully inclusive of black people and other LGBTQ communities of color.

Black gay pride exists to offer a respite for people who look like me and don’t see themselves represented often by mainstream pride movements and events. More personally, black gay pride reminds me that the wholeness of my identity as a gay man and a black man deserves celebration.

Percy Brown is an LGBTQ advocate, writer, communications professional.

He’s on staff at Georgia Equality, an organization to advance fairness, safety, and opportunity for lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender communities and our allies throughout the state. He’s also a member of the HRC’s National Board of Governors, a volunteer-led group of corporate and community leaders who manage the organization’s local outreach nationwide. peachATL.com | 21

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Sharif has lived in Atlanta for 17 years where works as a recruiter. He lives in the city with his husband, Thomas, who he enjoys dancing with in their living room – in their underwear! Sharif shares a birthday with Beyoncé, which may explain his love for writing music, and why he loves spending time with his kids. He also likes to travel, meeting new people, and having a drink with friends – and he loves when all the people in his life are winning! Follow Sharif on IG @mrsharif.

Sharif Champ Colbert

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So, this edition is going to be filled with Black Gay Pride stuff. Most articles will be about the events, the celebrations, the parties, the pool parties and the hot bodies. Labor Day Weekend is gonna be a big hit like it is every year.

I thought about taking a stand and doing an article on “Is Black Pride really necessary?”

Then I thought about doing an article on “What I think it means to be a Black Gay Male.” Then I thought about doing an article on “Making Interracial Dating Work.”

All the Gay Pride Stuff

By Jamie Kirk

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

Then I thought about doing an article on “When did the Atlanta Club scene become so segregated?” And I thought about an article that explored the “What does the black gay community need to do differently?” But because they are all relevant, I ultimately decided to briefly tackle each one, if only to scratch the surface.

another race. Dating someone outside your race means you both will acknowledge the pink elephant in the room and not avoid the tough conversations. A long-term relationship will not work if you sugar coat the differences and dance around the topics like politics, religion, schools, gentrification, and racism not existing.

Topic #1: Is Black Pride Necessary?

Topic #4: When Did the Atlanta Club Scene Become So Segregated?

I thought long and hard and decided (drum roll please): I 100% believe a Black Pride is necessary for those that feel the need to be acknowledged and celebrated. For so long, the Pride events did not feel inclusive to the Black community. Many of the events were under-represented (either by choice or force), but nevertheless, there was not a feeling of welcoming. Black Pride being separate allows for events, parties, social awareness campaigns, etc. to be deliberate. I feel it is necessary because others feel it is necessary. Feelings are facts. I honor and admire the folks that started these events in LA, DC, and Atlanta.

Topic #2 What I Think It Means to Be A Black Gay Male?

How the hell should I know? All I know is that being a black male is hard, being gay is hard, so you mix the two together you prolly have a recipe for disaster. This question is such a loaded question because how you feel is the result of your experiences. Based on your experience coming out or if you never came out, it will influence and impact how you view your life and your feelings of worthiness, self-acceptance, and pride. I can’t answer these questions, not even gonna touch it. I just believe that when someone is trying to tell you how they feel and why they feel the way that they feel; you owe it to them to listen. Listen with your head and with your heart.

Topic #3: Making Interracial Dating Work Well, well, well. I am no expert, but I truly believe that you can make any relationship work if you have a level of understanding and empathy. An interracial relationship is complicated because you are both bringing your childhood into the relationship. Some childhoods were filled with prejudice, hatred, and disharmony. Some childhoods were characterized by abuse, discord, and a lack of tolerance for

30 | 08.29.18

I don’t mean Martin Luther King Jr. & David Dukes-ish.

It’s not THAT bad, but certainly, close. On any given Friday night, you will find pockets of whites at a club, while pockets of blacks at another. At brunch, you will see the white kids at brunch between 12:30-2:00, while the black kids are there from 2:00- well, until. There seems to be a line in the middle of this city (undiscussed, of course) that some clubs are more “white-friendly,” while some clubs are more “black-friendly.” For the record, I did not use the word cater. I just think over the years; people gravitate to people, places and things that are LIKE them. We could do a better job of making sure we are all welcoming and inviting. There is no such thing as a black club, and there is no such thing as a white club. We all need to get back to partying together and enjoying one another to the fullest. With perhaps a goal of attaining topic #3 (hehe).

Topic #5: What Does the Black Community Need To Do Differently?

I think the answer to this is to simply continue to fight for what is right. Continue to call out unacceptable antics by bar owners, policemen, corporations, actors, news anchors, friends and family, when you or someone you love is hurt by bigotry or racism. Doing the right thing sometimes is oh so very hard, but it will remain being the right thing. Don’t back down, and don’t give up, due to the opinion of others. It is important to stand up, stare down and not back down. There is not just one thing that needs to be done; it is several things that need to happen.

As a VILLAGE this can happen. Nothing can stop the powerful energy of a bunch of folks doing the right thing, in the same direction, at the same time.

Asia O’Hara Takes The Throne with her debut music release “Queen For Tonight”

By Len Evans

RuPaul’s Drag Race finalist Asia O’Hara assumes her rightful place on the throne with the release of her debut music single, “Queen For Tonight.”

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Nina Simone : Four Women

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In the empowering rally cry, she invites listeners to “a land with infinite possibilities, a house of trust and a house of color,” rapping over a worldly track that mixes Middle Eastern sitars and tropical marimbas with a classic hip-hop drum machine.

“I wanted to set the scene for a place that I feel like all of us struggle to get to our entire lives,” explains Asia O’Hara from her Texas home.

“Mentally and spiritually, it may seemingly be a place that is out of reach, but the truth is it’s right there in front of us.”

With her pageant personality full of smiles and optimism, Asia O’Hara proved herself a true queen on the tenth season of RuPaul’s Drag Race, enchanting fans with dazzling runway looks, her maternal instincts toward her sister queens and her willingness to boldly speak out for what she believed in.

Asia O’Hara’s “Queen For Tonight” is available now on iTunes, Spotify and all digital platforms. Visit her website: asiaoharaland.com. Follow Asia O’Hara on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter @ AsiaOharaLand.

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peachATL.com | 37

Aug 29 – Sept 5

Heyday 80s Dance Party

House In the Park

The 80s are indeed back in style in Atlanta, as Heyday presents another edition of their popular 80s dance party. Dress the part or come as you are just ready to dance and have some fun.

Come out to celebrate the 14-year anniversary of House in the Park with resident DJ’s Ramon Rawsoul, Kai Alce, Salah Ananse and DJ Kemit.

Saturday, September 1, 10pm-3am The Basement STAFF PICK!

Sunday, September 2, 12-8pm Grant Park & Friends of Grant Park Recreation Center

Dragon Con 2018 Dragon Con attracts over 85,000 people to downtown Atlanta for four days and more than 3,000 hours of comics, film, television, costuming, art, music, and gaming. More info at dragoncon.com.

August 30 - September 3 Hyatt Regency Atlanta, Marriott Marquis, Hilton Atlanta, Westin Peachtree, Sheraton Atlanta, and AmericasMart Buildings 1 and 2.

At the Wake of a Dead Drag Queen

A Midsummer Night’s Dream

The inaugural project of Out Front Theatre Company’ Spectrum Lab Series is an unconventional ghost story featuring Atlanta favorite, Terry Guest, on a journey through the memories of a young, black, drag queen in her quest to find her truth. Tickets via outfrontheatre.com.

The Alliance Theatre is producing a whimsical, outdoor production of “A Midsummer Night’s Dream” – Shakespeare’s most popular comedy at the Atlanta Botanical Garden. Tickets through alliancetheatre.org.

September 3 & 4, 8pm Out Front Theatre Company 38 | 08.29.18

September 5 – October 21 Atlanta Botanical Gardens

HSL CLOSING PARTY AT THE HERETIC

PHOTOS: Andrea Dwyer

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peachATL.com | 41

FOREVER

PROUD

WELCOME ATLANTA BLACK GAY PRIDE LABOR DAY WEEKEND 2018 INTHELIFEATLANTA.ORG

OCTOBER12-14,2018 atlantapride.org

Thank You, Atlanta!

Our mission is to bridge communities to brighten the lives of Georgia's children in need.

24,372 Backpacks Donated Since We Started

See you next year!

KATHLEEN'S FAREWELL AT THE HIDEAWAY PHOTOS: Andrea Dwyer

44 | 08.29.18

Mission Statement

Preserving Culture And Identity of Gay Georgia

• Diversity Cafe - a LGBTQ Bistro in Hartsfield-Jackson Airport • GayDM - a new gay EDM festival coming to Atlanta in 2019

Become a member and have your voice heard. Join at gagapac.com @gagapacGA

GAGA - Gay Georgia PAC

gagapacGA

peachATL.com | 45

LATE SUMMER NIGHTS IN ATLANTA PHOTOS: D Stephen Moss

48 | 08.29.18

MIDTOWN 1

Monroe Dr. NE

14

Amsterdam Ave.

12th St. NE

NE ve . tA

Piedmont Park

on

11

dm

6

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

50 | 08.29.18

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

fitness

retail 8 Barking Leather

4

Ponce De Leon Ave. NE

Ponce De Leon Ave. NE

1 2 3 4 5 6 7

Ponce De Leon Pl. NE

Spring St. NW

17

76 4th St. NW

16 17 18 19

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

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

billards/Darts drag dancers leather non-smoking area Patio

Cheshire 23

ansley 21

37

e

on

Rd

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

Midtown Moon 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

.

tC

BJ Roosters Opus 1 Tripps Woof's

e. nt mo ed

39 38

BARS 20 21 22 23

41

Pi

28 20

25 ge

Av

ge Rd Brid hire

.

24

id Br

E

Ches

.N

35

29

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Dr

Rd

40

32

oe

hir

36

nr

dm

es

ll D

31 er

Mo

Pi e

Ch

idde

kn

27

33

. NE

Manchester St. NE

Piedmont Rd. NE

22

42 L

ul

IX

34

x Rd

Fa

26

BL

Le no

30

Lambert Dr.

PU

St.

.

A l co

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

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

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

peachATL.com | 51

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

Bars & Clubs

EAST ATLANTA, GRANT PARK & EDGEWOOD

Retail

MIDTOWN

MARY’S

MIDTOWN

amsterdamatlanta.com

1287 Glenwood Ave SE

AMSTERDAM

502 Amsterdam Ave. NE

ATLANTA EAGLE

marysatlanta.com

SISTER LOUISA’S CHURCH

BARKING LEATHER AFTER DARK barkingleather.com

306 Ponce De Leon Ave NE

sisterlouisaschurch.com

CHESHIRE

SWINGING RICHARDS

BARKING LEATHER

1400 Northside Dr NW

805 Lambert Dr NE

BULLDOGS

Dining

2205 Cheshire Bridge Rd NE

FRIENDS NEIGHBORHOOD BAR

MIDTOWN

736 Ponce De Leon Ave NE

communitashospitality.com

atlantaeagle.com

306 Ponce De Leon Ave NE

BLAKE’S ON THE PARK

blakesontheparkatlanta.com 227 10th St NE

893 Peachtree St NE

friendsonponce-atl.com

466 Edgewood Ave SE

swingingrichards.com

10TH & PIEDMONT

MODEL T

991 Piedmont Ave NE

699 Ponce De Leon Ave NE

einsteinsatlanta.com

modeltatlanta.com

EINSTEIN’S

MY SISTER’S ROOM

1077 Juniper St NE

66 12th St NE

frogsmidtown.com

mysistersroom.com

TEN ATLANTA

tenatlanta.com

990 Piedmont Ave NE

CHESHIRE

SOUTHERN NIGHTS VIDEO

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

GCB & PLEASURES

brushstrokesatlanta.com 1510 Piedmont Ave. NE

FROGS CANTINA

Fitness

931 Monroe Dr

MIDTOWN

G’S

communitashospitality.com 219 10th St NE

HERETIC

HENRY’S

2069 Cheshire Bridge Road

132 10th St NE

BJ ROOSTERS

JOE’S ON JUNIPER

hereticatlanta.com

barkingleather.com

henrysatl.com

URBAN BODY FITNESS urbanbodyfitness.com

500 Amsterdam Ave NE

CHESHIRE GRAVITEE FITNESS graviteeatl.com

bjroosters.com

joesonjuniper.com

2043 Cheshire Bridge Road NE

1049 Juniper St NE

OPUS 1

LA HACIENDA

Spas/Baths/Adult

900 Monroe Dr NE

MIDTOWN

1931 Piedmont Circle N

CHESHIRE

FLEX SPA

WOOFS

LAS MARGARITAS

76 4th St NW

2425 Piedmont Road NE

1842 Cheshire Bridge Rd NE

CHESHIRE

ANSLEY

ROXX

MANIFEST 4U

MIDTOWN MOON

1824 Cheshire Bridge Rd NE

1492 Piedmont Ave NE

ANSLEY

FELIX’S

COWTIPPERS

1086 Alco St NE

TRIPPS

woofsatlanta.com

1510 Piedmont Ave NE

lahaciendamidtown.com

lasmargaritasmidtown.com

cowtippersatlanta.com

THE HIDEAWAY

1600 Piedmont Ave NE

1544 Piedmont Ave NE

DEKALB

MIXX

LIPS ATLANTA

1492 Piedmont Ave NE

3011 Buford Hwy NE

mixxatlanta.com

OSCAR’S

oscarsatlanta.com

1510 Piedmont Ave NE

52 | 08.29.18

atldragshow.com

2201 Faulkner Rd NE

flexspas.com

manifest4u.org

2103 Faulkner Rd NE

THE DEN

thedenatlanta.com

2135 Liddell Drive NE

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AID Atlanta NEEDS YOU!

AIDS Walk Atlanta and 5K Run is looking for hardworking individuals like yourself to help us on race day October 21,2018 Head to our website to sign up today aidswalkatlanta.com and click VOLUNTEER.

Email jeff@peachatl.com for more information. peachATL.com | 53

10 CLASSIC SONGS TO CELEBRATE PRIDE WITH ANTHEMS TO OPEN YOUR HEART AND MOVE YOUR HIPS!

I Will Survive – Gloria Gaynor

I’m Coming Out – Diana Ross

Freedom – George Michael

You Make Me Feel (Mighty Real) – Sylvester Smalltown Boy – Bronski Beat

Free – Ultra Naté

Let’s Have a Kiki – Scissor Sisters

Supermodel (You Better Work) – RuPaul

All the Lovers – Kylie Minogue 54 | 08.29.18

Last Dance – Donna Summer

Sunday Funday = Playmates and soul mates...

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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

Breaking a sweat in the gym is a good thing. NOT cleaning up after yourself is not

Asking for a friend: Is it hip, when I, as a vegan, loves a fat beet?

*Texting* Him: How is it possible your single?

Yes, honey – you are so unique. Just like everyone else!

Me: You’re*

How come I can’t get out of bed in the morning, but when I hear my dog chewing on something in the middle of the night, I’m up in seconds?

I used to think I was indecisive – but now I’m not too sure.

Ugh, why must I be so shy? A cute guy walks by, and I said nothing just because he was with his wife.

Me: I’ll never get rid of this belly!

Also me: I just finished the cookies and ice cream – do we have anymore?

Don’t try me like that or I’ll post, tweet, and IG and then we’ll see how many followers you have in the morning.

56 | 08.29.18

ARIES (MAR. 21 - APR. 19)

LIBRA (SEP. 23 - OCT. 22)

In your drive for success, the on-ramp may not be readily apparent. Find the best approach by slowing down and waiting for opportunity to present itself.

Make sure you’re ready to step on the gas when the light turns from red to green.

You love fashion. You love mixing and matching and flaunting your finely honed sense of style. Go out and buy yourself pretty today, preferably in pink, pale green and shades of blue. Don’t worry about affording it. If the devil can wear Prada, why can’t you?

TAURUS (APR. 20 - MAY 20)

SCORPIO (OCT. 23 - NOV. 21)

You will gain a deeper understanding of a person or situation if you look at things from a different angle.

Your own personal ideals and sense of purpose may also undergo a sea change as your enlightenment grows.

Getting the ball rolling will prove easy today as roadblocks fall, and friends are receptive to your leadership.

Even your partner will be impressed with your skill in implementing plans and communicating ideas.

GEMINI (MAY 21 - JUN. 20)

SAGITTARIUS (NOV. 22 - DEC. 21)

Confusing undercurrents abound as your partner becomes more like your boss than your lover. There may be something he’s not telling you, and it’s what he’s not saying that has you concerned. Through gentle persuasion he could reveal a personal problem that’s causing his recent change in behavior.

The focus will be on finances today as unexpected expenses cut into your mad money. Since a sugar daddy isn’t readily available, some belt tightening may be in order. Be smart about how you spend, as you may have to live on the cheap for a bit, or at least until the next paycheck.

CANCER (JUN. 21 - JUL. 22)

CAPRICORN (DEC. 22 - JAN. 19)

How well you deal with a problem could spell the difference between a great day and a crappy one. Your proven ability to turn snatch victory from the claws of defeat may be tested as a solution could call for extreme measures that make you uncomfortable.

You’ve admired him from afar, and you’ve finally caught his eye. Now what? Good energy and confidence in yourself has gotten you this far, so don’t stop now. Taking things slow, or at a pace you like, will pay off, as you impress him with your quiet, yet steadfast pursuit.

LEO (JUL. 23 - AUG. 22)

AQUARIUS (JAN. 20 - FEB. 18)

You’ve been quite the gym bunny lately, and you have the chiseled bod and six pack abs to prove it.

This gives the you an even higher sense of ego, but don’t go overboard on the pumping and flexing. Others may get bored with your ‘look at me’ preening, and you risk looking silly.

Managing a roomful of monkeys banging on buckets may be easier than handling your pals today. You may have to dish out some discipline if anything is going to get done, a position the water bearer is never comfortable with. Do it with tact and grace, and they could see things your way.

VIRGO (AUG. 23 - SEP. 22)

PISCES (FEB. 19 - MAR. 20)

Problems with a relationship only strengthens your resolve to make it work. Get him involved and talk about it. Better yet, make plans to share some entertaining activities with him today. By not being so critical, and keeping things light, you might be able to put the ‘fun’ back in dysfunction.

A group you are part of suddenly finds itself rudderless, drifting along without direction. Take charge by helping to find someone who will take the reins. You’ll need someone who is loyal, dedicated and who leads with a quiet aura of empathy. Sound like someone you know?

58 | 08.29.18

WHAT happened was . . .

What Happened Was...

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

I have just gone through this whole process of losing weight, stepping up my wardrobe, and taking better care of myself. Basically, working on my confidence.

And even though it’s working for me, I still can’t seem to attract a cute guy. In fact, I often feel more alone than before. What am I doing wrong?

Sincerely Sir Changed-a-Lot Dear Sir Changed-a-Lot Congratulations on making changes in your life and working on your confidence. Next question is: are you really though? You hint that you may have been doing this to attract guys better, so maybe this move wasn’t so much for yourself really, but more about being accepted by others? Plus you say that it is working for you and then proceed to say you feel more alone – so is it? So maybe you are not as done with the process as you think you are. Good news is that you are in the process, and you are taking positive strides towards a better you. Just remember that you should do this for you and no one else. So right now, you should maybe be focusing on the mental – and not the physical – side of becoming a better you. Self-esteem is not just having a smoking hot body, but also exuding confidence – and that is very attractive.

either way, not the best starting point for anything but a great friendship. We also live in modern times where labels are being dissolved, so maybe you are mistaking flirting for him just trying to put you at ease and showing his acceptance, to prove he’s cool with it and comfortable too? Sure, he may be bi or even thinking about coming out, but that is none of your business until he makes it that. What you need to ask yourself is whether or not you are happy in your relationship since you are clearly distracted by this other guy. Distractions are the first things we look for when things aren’t smooth at home, and maybe you are simply longing for something else? Start working on that before anything else, and then see where you are.

I recently moved to Atlanta, and I have been lucky to meet a great group of friends already. The thing is it seems this group of friends are sleeping with each other very casually, and I don’t think I’m ready for that.

I’m not a casual encounter guy, and I’m certain I would develop feelings for the person(s) I am intimate with.

I’m afraid to lose these friends, but on the other hand, I am not in it for the sex. What do I do?

Sincerely Friends Circling Dear Friends Circling

I think a friend of mine, who is straight with a girlfriend, is flirting with me. He pays me compliments, and says that my boyfriend is a ‘lucky guy.’ He has also hinted that we should go to a concert together – just him and I – and he has flirted with me quite obviously a few times we were out. I am starting to think that there may be something there. Should I try to explore it?

Sincerely Straight Connection Dear Straight Connection There is nothing wrong with a little flirt or even daydream about coulda woulda shoulda. But you also know that there is a lot at stake here. You are involved with a boyfriend, and he has a girlfriend –

60 | 08.29.18

Sex among friends is probably more common than you would think. You spend a lot of time together, you know each other very well, and you have a bunch of memorable times together. So why not add a sexual dimension to it? Easy, right? Wrong! No matter how you look at it, sex complicates things, and in a group of friends it will add new dimensions to the relationships, and things can quickly get complicated. Kudos to your friends if they make it work, but for you, it is totally ok if you let them know that you are not into it. If they are true friends, they will understand.

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

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