Peach v3i10

We’re Ready for

Season Changes

Tweaks to Get You Ready

Q Music

Jewel and Thereafter

Gen X Files

The Spring That Didn’t Break

Interview

Kyle MacLachlan: Like a Fine Wine

Spring

MAY 10-11, 2019 FRIDAY, MAY 10

RÜFÜS DU SOL

BIG GIGANTIC • san holo

WHAT SO NOT • SNAKEHIPS • LANE 8 • BOOGIE T SOLARDO • SNBRN • DOMBRESKY • MOON BOOTS WHIPPED CREAM • GG MAGREE • DIRT MONKEY • WIN + WOO PAZ • MANTIS • EDDIE GOLD • MOVIN’ KEYZ SATURDAY, MAY 11

MARTIN GARRIX

galantis • fisher • gryffin

CHRIS LAKE • BIG WILD • EKALI • PARTY FAVOR CLOZEE • VANIC • SQUNTO • DUCKY • CRAY • SLUMBERJACK MIDNIGHT KIDS • ZEKE BEATS • XIE • PLS&TY FUNK HUNTERS • DJ ZOE GRAY • AIRWOLF

TICKET INFO AT

SHAKYBEATSFESTIVAL.COM

CONTENTS MARCH 06, 2019

V3-10 PEACH ATL MEDIA, LLC 1874 Piedmont Ave NE Suite 580-E Atlanta, GA 30324

MANAGING PARTNER Brian Sawyer brian@peachatl.com

18

8

OPERATIONS Jeff Anderson

Sales and Development Director

jeff@peachatl.com

EDITORIAL

Mikkel Hyldebrandt Editorial Director mikkel@peachatl.com Brian Sawyer Graphics

32

EVENT MARKETING Thomas Le tomthomas@peachatl.com

SALES | DISTRIBUTION

From the Editor

Andrea Dwyer andrea@peachatl.com

There’s something about Spring that screams ‘fresh start’ to me. Maybe it’s the nicer weather that pulls you out of hibernation or the extra effort you put into getting ready for stripping off those layers of clothing.

Either way, Spring for me is when the year really takes off, and if you look at Atlanta’s social calendar, you will agree with me that a multitude of events await to fill your dance card over the next few months.

One of those happenings is More To Love, which will present an immersive party experience with a bazaar-style event and all-out afterparty at the Heretic. I talked to More To Love’s founder, Chad Wick, about the event, the people behind it, and what the raised funds will go to. Read that on page 10.

We also have an extensive interview with Kyle MacLachlan, fresh, new columns, a guide to get Spring ready, and so much more - so sink your teeth into this Spring edition of Peach.

CONTRIBUTORS Kevin Assam Chris Azzopardi Jeff Fuller Gregg Shapiro

NATIONAL AD REP Rivendell Media 908.232.202

EDITOR PHOTO

Rikke Falck-Larsen

Mikkel Hyldebrandt Editorial Director

ONLINE

peachatl.com

PRINT

At Distribution Points Across the City

SOCIAL

FB:facebook.com/peachatlmag

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

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

6 | 03.06.19

History Going in

Circles

After an extensive renovation of the 14,952-square-feet painting of the infamous battle of Atlanta, the Cyclorama: The Big Picture, opens in its new home at The Atlanta History Center.

After moving from its original cyclorama building in Grant Park to its new home at The Atlanta History Center, the immersive experience is now open again for visitors. The painting is a full-color, three-dimensional, and 360-degree illusion that is meant to transport the viewer onto the battlefield of the 1864 Battle of Atlanta during the American Civil War. 132 years old and standing 49 feet tall, it has undergone an extensive restoration that includes adding and recreating three missing sections, that were removed because of their problematic nature that depicted Confederate symbolism and skewed the victory towards the Confederacy instead of the North. The missing sections have been added despite criticism so that the audience can learn the actual facts of history and how history can be interpreted and even subjected to ‘alternative facts.’

The experience gives the viewer a 360-degree view of the painting from the viewing platform, and 12-minute projection directly onto the painting for an enhanced adventure into history.

More information and tickets at atlantahistorycenter.com.

On display now (with the all-inclusive general admission.

THE WHAT, WHEN,

and WHERE

WHEN: On Display Now 8 | 03.06.19

WHAT: Cyclorama: The Big Picture

WHERE:

The Atlanta History Center, 130 West Paces Ferry Road NW, Atlanta, GA 30305

I AM MY OWN WIFE • WINNER •

PULITZER PRIZE FOR DRAMA & TONY AWARD - BEST PLAY

The fascinating tale of Charlotte von Mahlsdorf, a real-life German trans woman who managed to survive both the Nazi onslaught and the repressive East German Communist regime.

By Doug Wright MARCH 14-30, 2019 Tickets: $15 and up Out Front Theatre Company 999 Brady Avenue, Atlanta

www.OutFrontTheatre.com

The Love Keeps Growing

By Mikkel Hyldebrandt On top of working as a Doctor of Physical Therapy and being in the process of opening his own wellness center in Atlanta, Chad Wick dedicates a good deal of his time to his charity, More To Love, that engages his close-knit group of friends as well as the community.

This year, More To Love is presenting an immersive experience to raise money for volunteer work in Thailand.

What is More To Love?

More To Love started during Valentine’s Season three years ago. Our culture has capitalized on only one aspect of love during this time, romantic love. Even though I’m happily involved in a romantic relationship, I have always felt inspired to challenge this cultural mindset. If we are going to celebrate love, why do we not celebrate love in its entirety? Love takes on many shapes and plays many roles, yet we limit ourselves by focusing on just one avenue in how it is demonstrated.

More To Love stems from just that idea; it is an avenue to help celebrate all forms of love, and hopefully, a refreshing reminder to everyone to love more through various avenues and on various platforms. More To Love started with just one big event per year with the goal of creating that exact atmosphere and by making it charity focused; however, it has since grown as we have teamed up with local like-minded charities for various events throughout the year.

On March 9 you will host a big party themed Wish! at the Heretic – tell us about it.

We like to consider our events an “Immersive Experience”; and by that, I mean, our desire is that each attendee is entertained in many facets throughout the night by all the senses. We try to go above and beyond in theme, lights, sets, characters, performers, etc. Hookahs, belly dancers, performers, specialty cocktail, dancers, fortune teller, bazaar market with various vendors, dance music by DJ Chris Gris and much more - all under a Moroccan inspired decorated tent! The event is from 4-10pm so come early and stay late. Ticket entry into this event will get you into the night party inside Heretic for free!

This year, the money you raise will have an international impact – tell us about how you plan to spend the funds allocated?

This year, More To Love is taking a group of volunteers over to Northern Thailand to help do humanitarian work for the Hill Tribes. We are teaming up with The Mirror Foundation which is a local, established team.

All money raised will go towards this mission which will include airfare, program fees, etc. Additional funds raised will go towards bedding and malaria nets for the community. Our desire is to take this love that has been kindled here and help set it ablaze not only locally but 10 | 02.27.19

globally. In my opinion, our community gives back, and we want to demonstrate that internationally. We truly believe that some are able to make this trip while others are able to support the trip but we all together, as a community, take this trip together.

How can people get involved with More To Love?

We are always looking for like-minded volunteers to help without various events throughout the year. No matter what skill sets or interest you have - we can use you! We are also always looking for like-minded organizations and charities to support throughout the year. Contact us via email at moretoloveatl@gmail.com.

Anything you’d like to add?

This event gets bigger and more elaborate every year, and that’s only because of its incredible volunteers and supporters. I feel like I am part of something that is much bigger than myself. There is a team that helps put these events on- their ideas, their contributions, their sacrifices. I feel honored to be a part of it all.

I also feel like we are tapping into an energy that is already there within us all, within our community. So, I consider it a privilege that I can have a role as an avenue for this ‘love focused energy’ to flow through.

-Join More To Love at the Heretic for Wish! on March 9 between 4-10 pm. Our admission tickets ($15 pre-sale via universe.com or $20 at the door) also gets you into the Heretic afterparty featuring DJ Roland Belmares.

Erectile Dysfunction or Peyronie's Disease Got Yo

u Do

Newest PATENTED Process and Treatment Program

?

wn

• Atlanta's Trusted Leader • No Drugs, No Needles and No Surgery • Fast, Safe, Effective, In-Office Treatment Program • Non-Invasive Solution Natu • Natural, Long-term results • Improves satisfaction and performance • Greatly enhances sensitivity

Call 470-747-8400 x-105 To Set Up Your Consultation With Our Doctors Atlanta Health Clinic LLC 2480 WINDY HILL RD SE, STE 404 MARIETTA, GA 30067

www.AtlantaHealthClinic.com peachATL.com | 11

by gregg shapiro

JEWEL and thereafter Are you sitting down? Jewel’s Atlantic Records debut album Pieces of You was released almost 20 years ago. That’s 18 years before 2019 Grammy queen Kacey Musgraves’ trio of major-label triumphs, and a good 10 years before Musgraves’ fellow 2019 Grammyrecipient (and Jewel’s fellow yodeler) Brandi Carlile’s debut album. So, how does the 12x platinum Pieces of You (Craft Recordings), newly (and officially) released as a 180-gram double LP (officially, because Atlantic released a similar vinyl set in the `90s) with five non-CD bonus tracks, hold up?

Better than you might expect. Released in 1995, when the music world was having one of its every so often womendominated music periods (see 1971 and Joni Mitchell, Carole King and Carly Simon, too), it took more than a year for Pieces of You to catch on, but when it did, it did so in a big way.

“You Were Meant For Me” and “Foolish Games”, two of the three significant hits from the album (including “Who Will Save Your Soul”), reached the very top of the singles charts.

Nevertheless, Jewel’s youth (she wrote many of the songs as a teen) and naivete were on display in the title track, with references to a “faggot” and a “Jew”, which might not have sat well with some listeners. In terms of the bonus material, “Emily” (from the Sean Penn-directed Jack Nicholson movie The Crossing Guard), “Everything Breaks” and “Angel Needs A Ride” are the standouts.

Six years after releasing her debut album, Rita Ora returns with the aptly titled Phoenix (WB). A soaring experience, when it comes to separating Ora from the pack, the artist (and her production team and co-songwriters) have found a way to showcase her vocal skills without overpowering them.

Opener “Anywhere” is probably the best example of this, as it flirts with both the dance-floor and sing-along crowds.

“Lonely Together”, a collaboration with the late Avicii, is in the same camp. Queer listeners will also find something appealing in “Girls”, a group-effort featuring Cardi B, Bebe Rexha and Charli XCX, with the refrain, “sometimes I just want to kiss girls”.

Chances are good that we wouldn’t have a Rita Ora or a Jewel without Mariah Carey. In many ways, Jewel’s earnest modern folk tunes could be seen as a reaction to Carey’s overblown bubblegum pop and sex kitten image, while Ora sounds like a direct musical descendant. The 21st century has not been kind to Carey (and vice versa), beginning with 2001’s dismal soundtrack to Glitter, her first (and last) lead

12 | 02.27.19

role in a movie (although she managed to redeem herself in 2009’s Precious). She’s also label-bounced from Virgin to Island/Def Jam and now to Epic with her latest Caution (Epic).

A vocal acrobat in the mold of Whitney Houston, Carey exhibits a kind of newfound restraint here. That doesn’t mean that the album doesn’t immediately fit into her considerable catalog of songs about finding strength in tough times with song songs such as “GTFO”, “A No No”, “With You”, “8th Grade” and the lush album-closer “Portrait”.

Heard It In A Past Life (Capitol), the much-hyped debut album

by Maggie Rogers is a fine introduction to a singer/ songwriter with impressive pipes and strong composition skills.

Sounding like a long-lost Haim sister, Rogers makes breezy and irresistible pop, collaborating with a variety of producers (mainly Greg Kurstin) and co-songwriters (ditto Kurstin).

Some of the songs, including “Give A Little”, “The Knife”, “On + Off”, “Fallingwater” (co-written by queer singer/songwriter Rostam Batmanglij), “Retrograde” and “Burning”, sound like Rogers is trying to please the hipster Pitchfork pack.

On the other hand, songs such as “Light On”, “Back In My Body” and “Overnight”, seemed geared to the kind of people who snapped up copies of The Greatest Showman soundtrack.

Last, but not least, like Carey, Dua Lipa is a recipient of a Best New Artist Grammy Award for her eponymous debut album. Owing more to P!nk and Lady Gaga than she does to Mariah, Dua Lipa runs the risk of getting lost in the shuffle with Camila Cabello, Ariana Grande, Bebe Rexha and Demi Lovato. Nevertheless, if you haven’t checked out her eponymous Warner Brothers debut album, featuring standout cuts including “Lost In Your Light”, “Be The One”, “IDGAF” (co-written with gay artist MNEK), “No Goodbyes” and “Homesick” (co-written with Coldplay’s Chris Martin), now is as good a time as any.

Photos: PR

M

Y

Y

Y

M

Y

Y

Y

Voted Atlanta’s Best Pharmacy - 2018

Henson_Peach_Half_Proofv3.pdf

1

2/27/19

2:07 PM

HURT AT WORK?

Don’t deal with the insurance company alone -- let Kellie get you the benefits and settlement you deserve!

#KELLIECARES! www.hensoninjurylaw.com kellie@hensoninjurylaw.com

Serving the Midtown community for over 15 years!

Call Attorney Kellie Henson for your free consultation today!

404.795.5100 peachATL.com | 13

GET READY TO

SPRING

By Mikkel Hyldebrandt Hair Game On Top A fresh haircut or perhaps even a new hairstyle makes you feel all new again. The trend this season is still classic men’s cuts, but they are a little less structured and more natural. Go for a softer hold product that can give you a little texture instead.

Triumph and Disaster Ponsonby Pomade, $30 Update Your Wardrobe Spring is perfect for adding a few new items to your closet. This year the trend is leaving the norm-core and venturing into more colors and exotic patterns, and the fit is looser than previous years.

Onia Vacation Shirt, $145 Check On Your Skin With warmer temps, you probably need a lighter moisturizer – and you most certainly need to start incorporating a sun filter into your regimen.

Nivea Maximum Hydration Protective Lotion SPF 15, $18

Get a Good Footing Pool parties, open footwear, and more time spent barefoot means that you will have to get your foot game in check. Get a pedicure, start using a foot cream, and make sure you keep an eye on the state of your feet.

Miracle of Aloe Foot Repair Cream, $15 Moisturize Rough Spots Elbows, knees, and shins may need a little extra love before being revealed to the world in skimpier clothing. Exfoliate lightly and then moisturize, moisturize, moisturize!

Eucerin Professional Repair Extremely Dry Skin Lotion, $7

New Scents Why not set the theme of your Spring and Summer with a new fragrance? A new cologne will have you breathing in Spring in a whole new way.

Clean Reserve Smoked Vetiver, $95 Photos: PR 14 | 03.06.19

What (Gay) Men Want

by Gregg Shapiro

Images courtesy of Warner Bros.

Head injuries are no laughing matter. Just ask Eric Trump. Be that as it may, two movies opening in theaters a week apart – “What Men Want” (Paramount Players) and “Isn’t It Romantic”, make light of the results of a painful blow to the crown.

Happily single, career-driven Ali (a marvelously comedic Taraji P. Henson) is a sports agent at the excessively cis male Summit Worldwide Management, which may as well be called Straight White Males, because that’s what the sister is up against. From sexist/racist boss Nick (Brian Bosworth) to co-workers Kevin (Max Greenfield), Eddie (Chris Witaske) and Ethan (Jason Jones), the deck is stacked against her. This is confirmed when, much to the surprise of Ali and her devoted, nerdy but knowledgeable, gay assistant Brandon (Josh Brener), she is passed over for an important promotion.

Seeking solace with her trio of besties – Mari (Tamala Jones), Ciarra (Phoebe Robinson) and Olivia (Wendi McLendon-Covey) – at Mari’s bachelorette party, Ali partakes in a variety of stimulants, including an exotic tea from Haiti served up by rent-a-psychic Sister (Erykah Badu in a scene-stealing supporting actress role that has Oscarnomination written all over it). Later, flying high at a nightclub, Ali takes a header on the dance-floor.

The next morning, she discovers that she is able to hear every thought of every man in her office. Ali is convinced that there is a connection between Sister’s brew and the new gift, which results in some of the biggest laughs in the movie. In the midst of negotiations with rising young basketball 16 | 03.06.19

star Jamal (Shane Paul McGhie) and his insane father Joe Dolla (Tracy Morgan), Ali realizes that she can use this talent to her advantage.

It also comes in handy with hot onenight-stand Will (Aldis Hodge), in terms of pursuing a relationship. But, as we all know, some gifts are better left unwrapped.

This a lesson that Ali learns the hard way when she ends up dropping the ball on the Jamal deal, causing an embarrassing scene at Mari’s wedding and using widower Will and his young son Ben (Auston Jon Moore) in the most uncool of ways. But fear not, this is a rom-com with a happy ending, and another bump on the head is the remedy.

In the capable hands of out director Adam Shankman, “What Men Want” is also one of the gayest movies of the year (so far). In addition to Ali’s assistant Brandon, there is a foul-mouthed co-worker (Pete Davidson) harboring a secret crush on Brandon. There is also a fine selection of men, shirtless or in skin-tight workout wear, to ogle. Best of all, there’s no trace of homophobe/anti-Semite Mel Gibson who starred in 2000’s “What Women Want”, the Nancy Myers rom-com on which “What Men Want” is based.

peach rating: 3/5 PEACHES: A RIPE PEACH

RUN-A-WAY A GROUNDBREAKING FASHION COMPETITION

BENEFITING: PALS(PETS ARE LOVING SUPPORT)

FASHION SHOW SILENT AUCTION SPECIAL GUEST PERFORMANCES DJ MIKE POPE

MARCH 30 6:00-9:00PM

COME SUPPORT 10 OF YOUR FAVORITE LOCAL BUSINESSES AS THEY BATTLE IT OUT IN A “MYSTERY BOX” FASHION DESIGN CHALLENGE BENEFITING PALS(PETS ARE LOVING SUPPORT)

HERETIC ATLANTA 2069 CHESHIRE BRIDGE RD

Kyle MacLachlan Is Like a Fine Wine

Giant Little Ones actor on his new gay dad role, reaching LGBTQ youth and his bear-loved rosé

By Chris Azzopardi

In Giant Little Ones, actor Kyle MacLachlan plays a gay divorced dad named Ray Winter parenting a distant teenage son, Franky (Josh Wiggins), who’s grappling with his own sexual identity. I repeat: Kyle MacLachlan, a gay dad. The 60-year-old actor’s range knows absolutely no bounds, inhabiting diversified worlds and traversing genre, from comedy to drama, from soapy to supernatural.

MacLachlan’s first major role was in David Lynch’s 1984 adaptation of Dune (soon, Call Me By Your Name actor Timothée Chalamet will be slipping into MacLachlan’s stillsuit for the forthcoming remake) and two years later,

Photos: Vertical Entertainment 18 | 02.27.19

Pals PRESENTS Pets Are Loving Support

DRAG QUEEN BINGO

Hostess Bubba Dee

Mar. 12, 2019

For tickets visit our website www.palsatlanta.org

peachATL.com | 19

in 1986, he collaborated with the screen auteur again on Blue Velvet, starring alongside Isabella Rossellini. But it was Lynch’s early-’90s cult TV series Twin Peaks that arguably made MacLachlan a marquee name (in 2017, he reprised his role as Agent Cooper in Twin Peaks: The Return).

In his three decades in TV and film and on stage, MacLachlan has played a city official based on first bigcity openly gay Mayor Sam Adams, Fred Flintstone’s boss, the guy who fucks Nomi Malone in a swimming pool, Riley’s dad in Inside Out, Charlotte’s husband on Sex and the City, Bree Van de Kamp’s husband on Desperate Housewives, and because why the hell not: Cary Grant’s ghost. Starring in writer-director Keith Behrman’s Giant Little Ones as Helpful Gay Dad was really just an inevitably, but for MacLachlan, Ray is a warm hug of a role he deeply feels is important. One that, as a parent himself, even hits close to home. Here, the actor talks about raising his son, Callum, much like Ray Winter does, gay fans who slip into his DMs and bears who love his rosé.

You’ve played dads before. But what about Ray spoke to you differently?

He had a journey in this as well, which I liked.

It was really about the connection with his son, and at that age it’s very difficult and made even more challenging by the fact that the parents are separated. Under the circumstances, Franky just doesn’t know what to think or what to say, and I like that (Ray) really hung in there. I think in the original draft he was maybe a little more demanding, and so we kind of softened that a little bit. There are still those issues, but it was really important to me to feel like Ray was there and he wasn’t gonna go anywhere and to remain as non-judgmental as possible.

His presence is always felt, but he’s able to give his kid space at the same time. I appreciated that he tells his son to focus on who you’re drawn to and not what to call it, essentially letting him know that sexuality is a spectrum. How did that resonate with you?

That was a really nice piece of writing on Keith’s part, I thought. Again, trying not to judge. Especially at that age, I remember for myself just kind of trying to find where you fit in, what you’re good at, what you’re not good at, who’s your group. There’s lots and lots of questions and insecurities that are masked by a false sense of identity or control or “I don’t want to hear what you say, I’ve got it figured out myself.” The idea of just being present, it’s the way I approach the relationship with my son, the not judging. I’m not going at it trying to make him into something he doesn’t want to be.

You were the stepfather of a gay son, Andrew Van de Kamp, on Desperate Housewives.

Who does the better job parenting a queer kid: Orson Hodge or Ray Winter?

(Laughs) Orson, bless his heart. You know, he had good intentions, and there was an understanding there at

20 | 03.06.19

attempting to connect. I don’t think Orson was ever comfortable in that role. I think Ray is more conscious and he’s a champion, in some ways, for anyone who’s being judged. In this particular case, it’s “hang on a second.” He’s sort of about turning the page: “Let’s look at this and what’s really happening here.” I liked that. And he does it with an inner strength and a firmness, but it’s not without a wry sense of humor, and that I liked about him too.

When were your eyes first opened to having an LGBTQ following?

I think it was probably with Blue Velvet, I guess.

Thematically it expected so much of the audience, and it told a story that was so unusual and so true. That sort of started it, but I think with the advent of social media, suddenly it’s really obvious and present. And it’s great.

How has it become obvious through social media?

Just through comments, and it’s fun to read and great to feel the support.

And then because so much of it is built around David Lynch, there’s a real shorthand just in terms of terminology and phrases, and because of David’s visuals and his images and his dialogue, of course.

I have a friend who says Blue Velvet was responsible for his sexual awakening.

Is that what gay fans tell you on Twitter?

(Laughs) Maybe not quite so personal! But you know, that’s film. Film is all about experiencing something and having your eyes opened, and I think that film in particular was about that; the exploration of it and the themes of it were so interesting, and they hadn’t really been dealt with that much.

What kind of attention did Showgirls get you from the LGBTQ community?

(Laughs) I don’t think it found its camp niche until a little bit later. It had to go through the “Oh my god, this is perhaps one of the worst films ever made” reaction and then people sort of said, “I think it was, in a way, a guilty pleasure.” Then that began to grow, and there’s a true hardcore following of it and that’s really fun. I’ve never said, “Oh yeah, in fact, actually, that was the intention,” or, “Oh yeah, it’s a great film” – it’s not a great film. But it succeeds at a level that I think is still entertaining and fun. And why not? That’s our business.

I was at a gay bar once and they were showing Showgirls on all the TVs. When you shot that film, did you expect for it to live on in the LGBTQ community like it has?

I think we all entered into the film – certainly, I did – looking at the creative side of it. So you had really talented people – (director) Paul Verhoeven, obviously – and I think his intention was to do something that was sort of hard and cutting-edge and exposé and I think it kind of got away from him a little bit and became something else that was unexpected. But at the same time, we’ve all embraced it and said, “This is where it went,” and I gotta say, the film was probably gonna have a much longer life because of how it ended up

than if it hadn’t. If it was a film that we intended to make, it would’ve been great and fine and OK, but now, it will live on forever.

Particularly at gay bars.

At least there! And midnight showings!

For 2004’s rom-com Touch of Pink, what was special about portraying the ghost of Cary Grant who gives advice to a gay Muslim man?

It was really fun. First of all, just the research alone was great. Getting to watch all the films, reading up about him, who he was as a person and the business side of things in Hollywood and how he really, really created this persona, which I think he tried to get away from but it was what he was known for. So I loved the research of it.

And the director, Ian (Iqbal Rashid), whose story this actually was, was so lovely and I see him occasionally when I’m in London. He’s just a terrific person and a very, very talented director, and I was flattered. He had actually seen me on the stage doing a new play with Woody Harrelson and I don’t quite know how he got there from that performance (laughs), but he thought I’d be perfect. So that’s a pretty big mantle to try to take on, and so we sort of softened that a little bit and said he’s more the spirit of Cary Grant – he’s not exactly Cary Grant. But I enjoyed stepping in those shoes and trying out that language and that kind of attitude and that whole thing. And it’s got a beautiful message, and just the ending when he has to let go, it’s very touching, I think.

In 2018, you were honored with a Dorian acting award by GALECA, the Society of LGBTQ Entertainment Critics, for Twin Peaks: The Return, and in 2009, Desperate Housewives received Outstanding Comedy Series from GLAAD. Is there something special or distinct about having your work acknowledged by LGBTQ audiences and organizations?

Yeah, those stories, if they can speak to a community and there’s a resonance there, that’s the goal of this.

They should be universal, but I think that if there’s a relationship that can be created then we’re doing a good job; something that’s worthwhile that creates an emotional response and a connection, that’s really what you want. I mean, that’s what I want.

It’s always about the quality of the material, so if it there was, it just wasn’t worth telling.

But then you read something like Giant Little Ones.

And you know that it is a beautiful story. I had the reaction that everyone had: This is a story that needed to be told, and for any kids out there who are having this kind of “I don’t know, I don’t know” and they don’t have anywhere to turn, it’s like, well, we’re not the answer, but we’re at least an experience to say, “You’re not alone.”

And a reminder to your own son that his dad is OK with whomever he becomes or wants to be.

In fact, he attends a school in New York and it’s all about that. It’s all about the acceptance of everyone, and it’s a wonderful thing to watch because that wasn’t my experience growing up. Public schools, small town, very conservative. Not unlike the situation of Franky, there was a lot of “however tough you are” and “whatever sports you play,” those are your identifiers. It’s nice that he’s having a completely different experience.

In your spare time, you are a winemaker.

Are gay men some of your most loyal rosé buyers?

(Laughs) I should hope so, for god’s sake! Rosé is one of those crazy things: It just keeps expanding and people love it and now it’s not just for summer anymore, it’s not just for the Hamptons anymore. It can be yearround and, yeah, it’s been really fun. And yeah, very supportive.

In a queer context “bear” means a hairy, chubby gay man, so it can’t hurt that “Pursued by Bear” is the name of your brand.

You know, I was really going after the Shakespeare play, obviously, but yeah, not unaware and I thought, that’s kind of funny. There’ve been occasions where I’ve met a few guys – bears, you know – and they’ve said, “Oh yeah, I’ve got this in my cellar.” And it cracks me up!

I’m like, “Fantastic, I’m glad you like it.” It’s good wine and it should be enjoyed.

Your role as the mayor of Portland in Portlandia: Do you think that character would make a good mayor of Twin Peaks or Wisteria Lane?

(Laughs) He wasn’t a really good mayor – but he was incredibly enthusiastic! I think that was the fun of it: He always got things a little bit wrong but they kind of ultimately ended up OK, with the help of Fred (Armisen) and Carrie (Brownstein), certainly. But, oh god, at least it would be a lot of fun to have him as a mayor of any community, I think.

Why haven’t we seen you in more openly gay roles?

(Laughs) It’s a good question. You know, the work just kind of comes, and it’s one of those things where once it sort of filters through a little bit of whatever it does in Hollywood it finds its way into my inbox and you take a look at it.

Have there been gay roles you’ve turned down?

As editor of Q Syndicate, the international LGBTQ wire service, Chris Azzopardi has interviewed a multitude of superstars, including Meryl Streep, Mariah Carey and Beyoncé. Reach him via his website at www.chris-azzopardi.com and on Twitter (@chrisazzopardi).

peachATL.com | 21

EAGLE PHOTOS: Andrea Dwyer

22 | 03.06.19

FREE HIV TESTING #STOPHIVATL

Contact us for free HIV testing dates and sites in Fulton County

678.365.4300 Provided through a grant from the Fulton County Board of Health.

LA CHOLOTECA AND GUESTS AT MJQ CONCOURSE PHOTOS: Mikkel

24 | 03.06.19

peachATL.com | 25

G8YTIES 80S PARTY AT THE HERETIC

PHOTOS: TOBY

PHOTOS PROVIDED BY: 26 | 03.06.19

April 6, 2019 Emory University Grab some friends and spend a fun day competing in your favorite version of schoolyard games. Tug-of-war, 3-legged and wheelbarrow races, and more.

Two fun events to raise money for AIDS vaccine research and local service organizations including Emory Vaccine Center, Positive Impact, AID Atlanta, Jerusalem House and HERO for Children.

May 18-19, 2019 A 2-day 200-mile bike ride across the beautiful Georgia countryside.

Shorter options are available, including relays.

Register for one or both events, volunteer and/or donate to a participant at actioncyclingatl.org

PRESENTS

Furniture Home Accessories Fashion and Art.

A NEW SHOPPING EXPERIENCE COMING THIS SPRING TO THE WORKS ATLANTA

We are proud sponsors of More To Love The Wish Event. www.tomasfrenes.com www.basikspaces.com www.theworksatl.com

Justin is originally from Columbus, Ohio, but has lived in Atlanta since 2015 where he does accounting for an electrical contractor. He considers himself a healthy mix of nerd and jock, so sometimes he’ll be gaming with friends and others he’ll be on the pitch playing rugby. He has been an intricate part of the Atlanta Bucks Rugby Club for three years now, which he believes to be one of the greatest decisions he’s ever made. Justin also has a lot of love for dogs, hard ciders, and watching romantic comedies.

Instagram @instatoller

Justin troller

30 | 03.06.19

The Outside Reflects the Inside

By Kevin Assam

Photo: Armando Ascorve Morales

Meatloaf! No. Roast Beef. Clearly my lesbian wife’s Rocky Horror Picture Show bash was still on my mind. Happy birthday, Beth! But this column involves a more mysterious lady in my life. Across the table sat my sometimes lesbian but mostly straight relationship expert. She was a semi-retired practicing witch too young to lead a coven but just old enough to qualify as experienced in the art community and more importantly handle my asinine questions and reasoning.

As we munched on our tender and tasteless octopus at an overhyped downtown spot, she relayed with great detail what the concept of “Roast Beef” was. I will spare this predominantly male audience the gory details and ask that you do not envision a roast beef sandwich — meat spewing out of the bun — and do not proceed to compare that to the anatomy of a certain lady part. Apparently, a mutual lesbian friend and a straight male acquaintance had both warned her that should she ever encounter this “meat delicacy” in her sexual exploits, she should roll the hell up and run for her god damn life.

Skewering the improved in taste bacon wrapped dates I remembered the popular pieces by The Guardian titled Me and My Penis and Me and My Vulva, which explored the various shapes, sizes, and colors of our nether regions through 100 photos of bare men and women respectively. As an anal virgin — and virgin in general in my eyes — my understanding of the aesthetics of sexual organs is pretty innocent. I once triumphantly pointed to a moderately sized chocolate covered pretzel stick in an iconic sweet shoppe and proudly remarked that I had finally found something that realistically looked like my snickerdoodle.

The uproar that followed in the store by my then friends after they collected themselves from the 32 | 03.06.19

floor made me feel a bit embarrassed. I thought a chocolate submerged pretzel stick was not exactly a french fry. Even if it was, is that a problem? It would probably mean I couldn’t top a man or woman. However, that would still leave the options of bottoming, oral, or cuddling.

As men, we do not all bear shafts that look perpetually smooth, rounded, and cohesive: a ripe extension of mainstream beauty cues of six packs and six feet statures. So as the quasi-witch dug into our barely appetizing mishmash of Mozzarella Caprese Salad I found myself agreeing with her heterosexual sentiments on “Roast Beef.” If you’re active and healthy enough to encounter upon an erotic romp and your playmate happens to have an unconventionally shaped albeit clean Picasso-esque banana or overflowing roast beef sandwich pleasure tunnel maybe you shouldn’t run. Maybe you shouldn’t roll on up out of there leaving untold mental carnage on someone who will never forget that moment of body shaming.

Perhaps in the case of women you can overlook the more artistic garnishes and focus on the meat of the platter. Perhaps in the case of men you can think of it as certain mishandled fruit or produce — a little dinged or blemished but just as tasty once everything is unpeeled.

Or maybe we should run? Just like I wanted to from that meal. We never did order dessert.

Kevin is a middling writer but top notch interviewer. His ideas on love and relationships are mostly fueled by his wild imagination. He often orders dessert first.

Membership Required.

Must be 21 to Enter.

Get the details on these and other great upcoming events on our website calendar.

We’re closer to Atlanta than you think!

Spring Weddings March 9 April 6

Coming May 31- Jun 2

with Del Shores Performing!

My European Spring That Never Awakened (Me)

By Jeff Fuller

I spent the spring semester of my junior year of college studying abroad at the University of Edinburgh. It was 1996. Scotland was entertaining a separation from the United Kingdom, possibly provoked by the previous year’s movie Braveheart. The band Oasis was wildly popular. “Don’t Look Back in Anger” and “Champagne Supernova” could be heard around every corner. Trainspotting was a hit movie, especially in Edinburgh, where the disturbing movie was set. Tracks from its soundtrack like “Born Slippy” and “Lust for Life” pulsated through the nightclubs.

men. From there, I traveled with two girls to Cordoba, Granada, Barcelona, Nice, Rome, Siena, Pisa, and Florence. After several days of travel with the girls, I was ready to explore places on my own.

Students at Edinburgh were blessed with a four week break from classes from March 15 to April 15. My fellow international students and I were eager to use the extended break to go backpacking around Europe. While the internet was around, we still relied on guidebooks like Let’s Go Europe and maps to find our way around, book accommodations and read about interesting things to see and do in each country.

We located a restaurant a few blocks from the Duomo.

Over dinner, I asked him who he was traveling with.

He said that he sung professionally with a group of a cappella singers. I mentioned that I sang with a rock gospel choir at Edinburgh, so he asked me to sing something for him. I politely refused. He asked me if I had seen Michaelangelo’s David yet and what I thought about it. Nice try! I eventually got him to admit to me that was gay. He asked me if I was. At this time in my life, I hadn’t opened up to anyone about my sexuality and this person seemed completely safe. However, I told him I was not. But I could tell that he didn’t really believe me. He invited me to come with him to a party that an Italian friend of his was having. I wanted so much to go, but I resisted, told him good night and went back to the hostel.

Andrew, an American friend of mine at the University, wanted to travel somewhere warm, but he only had a week to travel before he needed to go back to the States. We settled on traveling in Portugal together.

Andrew and I flew to Lisbon, explored the castle, cathedrals, the medieval Alfama district, and chanced upon cute little restaurants. At the time, English was not widely spoken in Portugal, but I learned enough Portuguese to help us get by. I remember being stunned by how good-looking the men were there.

But at this time in my life, I wasn’t ready to accept these feelings. After a few days in Lisbon, Andrew and I traveled down to the Algarve, the sunny coastal region in the south of Portugal. When we arrived in Lagos, I noticed that the pousada we had booked had a rainbow flag sticker on its door. Once we checked in, Andrew smiled at me and said: “We probably look like a couple.”

From the Algarve, I said goodbye to Andrew and headed by a bus overland to Spain. Interestingly, the bus never stopped at a border. The European Union’s Schengen Agreement had gone into effect the prior year, which abolished border crossings. However, we still used different currencies in each country we traveled to.

In Seville, I met up with my friend DeVere for a few days. I remember being so enthralled with Seville, its history, its architecture, its food and especially its 34 | 03.06.19

In Florence, I told the girls that I was going to stay at a different hostel. One evening at the hostel, I ended up striking up a conversation with a Canadian guy who was also traveling around Italy. Having no travel companions at this point, I asked him if he wanted to find some dinner with me.

A backpacking trip around Europe is a rite of passage, how college students often find themselves. That spring inspired many more journeys for me. It gave me the confidence to travel on my own and get to know people along the way. This trip gave me glimpses of who I was, but I kept looking away. At this time, when borders were disappearing all over Europe, acceptance of my sexuality was a frontier that I would not cross.

The GEN X Files

SOMETHING

WICKED

THIS WAY COMES...

GET YOUR SEASON OFF TO A WICKEDLY GOOD START!

$10 BOTTOMLESS BEER CUP! RAFFLES! LOTS OF FUN!

SUNDAY MARCH 10TH 448PM SEASON OPENER BEER BUST WITH WICKED! THANKS TO OUR SPONSORS: My European Spring That Never 1510 PIEDMONT AVE, NE ATLANTA, GA 30309 Awakened (Me)

By Jeff Fuller

You deserve Personalized Care & Individual Attention – that’s what we deliver at Family Health Care of Atlanta • Participating in many clinical trials • Certiied HIV Specialist, American Academy of HIV Medicine • 20+ years experience in Family & HIV Care SPECIALIZING IN DERMATOLOGY, STD’S, ANXIETY, DEPRESSION, UROLOGY, PSYCHIATRIC DISORDERS

Mar 7 – March 13

DILF Atlanta presents “Strapped”

Ruby Redd Presents the Heifer Review

No need to feel strapped in when the party is all about hanging out in your jockstrap and harness! Another edition of the DILF party hits Atlanta with hot beats, men, and fun.

Join the cast of heifers headed by Ruby Redd as they kick off the Heifer Review at their new location. Enjoy a revamped brunch menu as the herd stomps down Juniper and stops traffic.

Friday, March 8, 10 pm – 3 am The Heretic

STAFF PICK!

Sunday, March 10, 1-4 pm Joe’s On Juniper

P!nk’s Beautiful Trauma World Tour The timing couldn’t be better as the pop superstar just released new music from her upcoming album to be launched in April. A great voice combined with breathtaking acrobatics will no doubt stun the audience.

Tuesday, March 12, 7:30 pm State Farm Arena

PALS Drag Queen Bingo 80s Night

Atlanta Brunch Festival

The girls have dug out their outfits from decades ago, the shoulder pads have been strategically placed, and the hair has been teased and sprayed, so they are ready for a special 80s edition of their popular bingo night benefiting PALS Atlanta.

Tickets via palsatlanta.org.

Celebrate the ritual of brunch with 40+ great Atlanta restaurants that will provide you with great brunch dishes and ever-flowing mimosa and bloody marys. Several ticket options via bigtickets.com.

Tuesday, March 12, 7:30-9:30 pm LIPS Atlanta

38 | 03.06.19

Saturday, March 9, 12-4 pm Atlantic Station

BIG BROTHER CASTING CALL @ BLAKES PHOTOS: Andrea Dwyer

40 | 03.06.19

OCTOBER 11-13,2019 atlantapride.org

MIDTOWN 1

Monroe Dr. NE

14

Amsterdam Ave.

NE ve . tA

Piedmont Park

on

11

dm

6 12th St. NE

18

Pi e

Juniper St. NE

14th St. NE

7

9

2

10th St. NE

10

. NE

19

oe Dr

e. NE Piedmont Av

Juniper St . NE

Peachtree St. NE

3

Monr

Charles Allen Dr. NE

12 W. Peachtree St. NW

15

16

4th St. NE

8

13

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

5

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

9 10 11 12

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

clubs 13 Atlanta Eagle

306 Ponce De Leon Ave NE

306 Ponce De Leon Ave NE

14 Urban Body Fitness 500 Amsterdam Ave NE

spa/bath 15 Flex Spa

42 | 03.06.19

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

When the world throws you Let be your savedandgay.com

Cheshire 23

ansley 21

37

e

ge

Rd

on tC ir .

Piedmont Park BARS 2043 Cheshire Bridge Rd 1086 Alco St NE 1931 Piedmont Cir NE 2425 Piedmont Rd NE 1842 Cheshire Bridge Rd 1824 Cheshire Bridge Rd

32 33 34 35 36

Midtown Moon Felix's The Hideaway Mixx Oscar's

805 Lambert Dr. NE, Suite A 2205 Cheshire Bridge Rd 2069 Cheshire Bridge Rd 1739 Cheshire Bridge Rd 2201 Faulkner Rd NE

Spa / bath 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

Fitness 30 Gravitee Fitness

NE

.

clubs 28 Heretic 29 Tokyo Valentino

e. nt mo ed

39 38

Retail 26 Barking Leather 27 Southern Nights

41

Pi

28 20

Dining 24 Las Margaritas 25 Roxx

Av

ge Rd Brid hire

r.

E

Ches

.N

.

25

BJ Roosters Opus 1 Tripps Woof's

31 Manifest 4 U 42 The Den

35

24

id Br

Dr

Rd

BARS 20 21 22 23

40

32

oe

hir

36

nr

dm

es

ll D

31 er

Mo

Pi e

29

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 | 43

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

10thandpiedmont.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

gsmidtown.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

44 | 03.06.19

atldragshow.com

2201 Faulkner Rd NE

flexspas.com

manifest4u.org

2103 Faulkner Rd NE

THE DEN

thedenatlanta.com

2135 Liddell Drive NE

Georgia Body Works.com Mobile Fitness and Massage “I come to you, so let’s get started!”

678-557-1780

Personal Training • Massage • Entertainment georgiabodyworks.com

ADVERTISE In Atlanta's premier

LGBT MAGAZINE for as little as

35 per week!

$

Email jeff@peachatl.com for more information.

HELP WANTED

FULL TIME DESK CLERK POSITIONS AVAILABLE

8-4pm and 12-8am

Please apply online at Flexspas.com

Hot Tub and Swim Spas

60% OFF RETAIL AquaLivingStores.com 404-382-5329

peachATL.com | 45

10 Things to Get You Ready for Spring

SEASON IS CHANGING SO WHY NOT SWITCH UP A FEW THINGS!

Do a thorough spring cleaning Go deep as in deep clean

Change your skincare Your skin has new needs

Clean out your closet You know, does it spark joy?

Get outdoors It’s time to live outside the house too

Get your car spring ready Maybe a wash or new tires?

Plan a trip Before you know it, summer’s here!

Make a change New hair, new habit, new job?

Get your feet ready Open footwear is in your future

Revamp your workout Change it up for better results

Check in on your action plans Do you need to adjust goals?

46 | 03.06.19

WE'RE HIRING Playmates and soul mates...

WE ARE SEEKING Motivated, Hard-Working, Innovative People to be Our Next Superstar Ad Sales Representatives.

Jumpstart Your Career by Joining Atlanta's Newest Gay Media Company!

One Year Sales Experience Required EMAIL YOUR RESUME TO

Jeff@peachatl.com

Atlanta:

678-528-2525

18+ MegaMates.com

PRIDE Kickball Powered By GO Kickball

“Atlanta’s Premier Social Experience for the LGBT Community”

Get in the game this Spring!

Mondays at Piedmont Park | begins march 18 **Sign up as a team, small group or free agent** Registration closes mar 11

www.PRIDEKICKBALL.com peachATL.com | 47

Text your Peach Pits to 540-30-PEACH, or e-mail mikkel@PeachATL.com

Me: Even though we’re not together anymore, we can still be friends

I just realized that my birthday is nine months after National Margarita Day!

Him: You swear?

Me: Pinky swear!

Him: One favor though

One of those days where there just aren’t enough curse words to express myself!

Me: Yes?

Him: Shove that pinky up your a**, you’re an ass**e!

Asking for a friend: What bug spray will also repel humans?

I want a man who can tell me to shut up and obey. I won’t ever do it, but I’ll be turned on as hell!

Dad Joke Alert I don’t trust stairs because they’re always up to something

48 | 03.06.19

Don’t be concerned about me. Be concerned about your eyebrows instead

That time on a date where I ordered in perfect French, and the girl in the drivethru just asked ‘what?’

LEO (JUL. 23 - AUG. 22) You’re usually persistent in your attempt to meet and woo attractive new guys. This often works to your advantage, but it can also make you look even more pushy than usual. Be subtler in your approach today. And get rid of the baseball bat you use to club them over the head with.

VIRGO (AUG. 23 - SEP. 22) You may have to care for a sick friend today. So whip up some chicken soup and bust out the can of sympathy. Most of us no longer live with our mothers, so we rely on the support of our friends to get us through. Be one such friend today. Besides, you’ve got the legs for that nurse’s outfit.

PISCES (FEB. 19 - MAR. 20)

LIBRA (SEP. 23 - OCT. 22)

You find the absurdities of life to be entertaining, but you don’t have to be one of them. Acting the buffoon or behaving outlandishly may be a hoot to you, but others find it embarrassing and childish.

Does that matter to you? It should.

You’ll need to be flexible today. People may not be on the same wavelength as you, and they’ll disrupt your chi. There’s not much you can do other than go with the flow and be adaptable. Work with that philosophy and you’ll get through the day without going ballistic.

ARIES (MAR. 21 - APR. 19)

SCORPIO (OCT. 23 - NOV. 21)

You may not be feeling particularly good today.

Could it be a physical manifestation of a mental ailment? That’s a distinct possibility, given the way you stress out. Take a few days off next week if you can, and then see how you feel. But keep your therapist’s number handy, just in case.

Today’s a good one to get the things you want, especially with guys. Start with a subtle approach and try to go in through the back door. But if that doesn’t work, gather all your energies and charge full steam ahead until you emerge victorious.

TAURUS (APR. 20 - MAY 20)

SAGITTARIUS (NOV. 22 - DEC. 21)

Today would be a wonderful one for a dinner party. Nothing chases away the blues better than socializing with friends. So whip up a quick and easy meal, pop open some wine and invite some of the guys over. They may need the release as much as you do.

Follow your moods today. They may be like the sea: Unpredictable and forever shifting. But they’ll take you to new and exciting ports of call where you might find a first mate to help you navigate.

GEMINI (MAY 21 - JUN. 20) Your financial situation may be good, but make sure you have some tucked away for a rainy day. Right now the skies are sunny and you may be in a mood to spend. But don’t go crazy, or once the rains start you won’t even be able to afford an umbrella.

CANCER (JUN. 21 - JUL. 22) Watch how you snap those claws today, because there could be someone out there that’ll snap right back. It’s always interesting when two crabs meet; it can be like throwing gasoline on a fire. But, oh!

The passions ignite once the lights go out.

50 | 03.06.19

CAPRICORN (DEC. 22 - JAN. 19) Idiot coworkers will have you wishing you were somewhere else today, like on a beach in Tahiti, getting a massage and sipping a drink as you wonder what your idiot coworkers are up to.

AQUARIUS (JAN. 20 - FEB. 18) Be aware of developing health issues today. It’s easy to let your well-being slip in these busy times. But you’ve only got one body, and there are no exchanges. Start with a physical and dental checkup. Then develop a fitness routine that works for you. Your body and mind will thank you.

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.

M

y partner and I have been together for a looooong time, and we have a deep and fulfilling relationship. One thing I’d like to change is our sex: we have sex frequently, but they are always quickies right before work, bed, or going somewhere. It’s like it is only fulfilling the physical part of having sex and not the intimate part if you follow. The sex is always an intermission and never the main attraction. I deeply desire my partner, and I want to grow our intimacy, so how do we get that back?

Sincerely Inti-Mates Dear Inti-Mates Sex is a physical need and release, but ultimately sex is about the intimate connection you achieve with a partner. It seems like you have had that type of connection, so, of course, it can be frustrating if it’s veered off to being more about the physical release thing instead. Ask your partner if he has noticed the switch, and if he’d like to get the intimate connection back – that’ll also give you an excellent opportunity to let him know that you miss him intimately.

Next, instead of having unplanned, sporadic quickies, plan a romantic, sexy night where you take time to be all about each other. You don’t necessarily have to have sex, but after courting each other all night long, that may end up being the outcome. Another little exercise that builds an erotic, intimate connection is to lie next to each without touching and revealing a sexual fantasy to each other. Keeping it entirely in the head – at least for a while – helps to switch the sexual connection from the merely physical to an all-body experience. Low-key sex and quickies are fun, but not nearly as fulfilling as drawn-out sex in terms of pleasure and intimacy.

M

y friend is an addict, and after a stint in rehab, he has all this resentment and anger towards me and basically wants to blame me for not being there when he was in trouble. I wish I could have been there too, but the thing is that at the time, he was doing the best he could to conceal his substance abuse, and he was lying and effectively putting on the façade that everything was terrific. So I honestly had no idea just how bad things were with him until he checked himself into rehab and revealed the extent of his drug abuse. Now he is telling me that he doesn’t need friends like me who wasn’t there for him, and when I try to explain my point of view, he blames me for not trying to see his side of the story. We’re at an impasse, I don’t know what to do, and it seems like I’m losing a friend. How can I break through to him?

Sincerely Substance-Abused Dear Substance-Abused You ask how you break through to him, but it seems like the question is rather when will your friend have a breakthrough of his own! Needless to say, your friend is going through a lot right now, and coming down from not only substance abuse, but abuse of friendships and trust raises a multitude of issues on its own. Your friend probably feels very guilty for past behaviors, and that can be overwhelming. A natural reaction is to attempt to place blame on someone other than himself – and that’s you right now. I suggest you give him some space to sort out his own stuff, then, down the line, you can attempt to talk to him again and explain why you didn’t step in while he was in trouble. Acknowledge the fact that you wish you could have acted differently.

Express how sorry you are for what happened to him, and that you are willing to move forward by not placing any blame or guilt on him. Show him that you are indeed a true friend who had the right intentions all along, and he will hopefully one day understand that too.

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

52 | 03.06.19