Peach Magazine V6-i47 | It’s Giving Gifting

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MANY MOR e ONLIN e @ P e ACHAt L.COM

2022 FOR t H e KID tOY PARt Y

PHOtOS BY RUSS BOweN-YOUNgBLOOD

LYNN BARFIELD

1970-2022

On December 8, we lost a pillar, ally, and support of our community. Gone way too soon, Lynn Barfield was loved and cherished by so many, and she leaves a huge void behind. Her legacy was to love, to give, and to support a community that loved her back so deeply in return. She will be forever missed.

The Heart of Midtown

This open letter was submitted by Tony HageninresponsetothesuddenlossofLynn Barfield, a dedicated supporter and ally of theLGBTQ+community.

Lynn,

Why does this feel so different? We’ve lost many others, but losing you hurts in a different way.

Perhaps it’s because you made Midtown feel like, well, Midtown. Like a small community in the middle of a big city. You brought the charm to our gayborhood. Without you, we’re left wondering where to find it.

You were a friendly neighbor to every person in town: You welcomed us to Blake’s, rallied us for fundraisers and made us feel like everything was going to be alright.

When you lost loved ones to AIDS, you made it your mission to help the community. You advocated for awareness. You showed us what real leadership looked like.

We weren’t ready to say goodbye. You weren’t done leading the way. But you left us stronger, and it’s time for us to take your lead.

Losing you hurts more than I ever imagined. Not because of your legendary hugs, or even the love you spread. Losing you hurts most because of what you represented. You represented a local community where we all belonged. A community that welcomed everyone with open arms. A community to

be proud of.

And as our local gay establishments continue to crumble around us, we’re losing that sense of community. We’re starting to lose what made Midtown different, it’s heart. And that’s exactly what you were: The heart of Midtown.

I can only hope this loss inspires us to bring back that heart. For you. And for our queer community that needs it so desperately.

To an ally, inspiration, and life-changing force, thank you. Thank you for making us better.

We love you forever, Midtown

Your wallet is one of your most prized possessions, so why not upgrade it? The stylish ultra-slim cardholder from Ekster holds cards and cash that can be accessed with a click of a button. And it prevents wireless theft with its RFID-blocking

Your wallet is one of your most prized possessions, so why not upgrade it? The stylish ultra-slim cardholder from Ekster holds cards and cash that can be accessed with a click of a button. And it prevents wireless theft with its RFID-blocking

Ekster 18K Gold Cardholder, $250 at ekster.com

Elevate Your Cocktail Game

A good cocktail can save the day, so why not invest in one of the best cocktail shakers ever made? With its vacuum seal and insulation, you won’t spill or freeze your fingertips off, and the lid has practical measurements for perfect cocktail concoctions.

Elevated Craft Hybrid Cocktail Shaker, $70 at elevatedcraft. com

Get Going In Style

Skip the line at your local Starbucks and get that freshly ground and brewed coffee at home! With five preprogrammed favorites and customizable brewing and steaming functions, this user-friendly espresso machine will get you going barista-style in the morning.

Breville Barista Touch Damson Blue Espresso Machine. $1,100 at crateandbarrel.com

Be Ultra On Time

If you thought that your Apple Watch already packed all the assets you needed in your life, wait until you go ultra! The most rugged and capable Apple Watch ever packs additional styling and features that are perfect for the everyday adventurer or athlete.

Apple Watch Ultra (shown with Midnight Ocean Band), $799 at apple.com

The Gift of Custom-Made

Nothing says personal like custom-made – and if you’ve ever had the experience of getting a shirt made-to-measure, you know that it’s a luxury that is hard to give up again. Right now, Atlanta-based HKT Custom Clothiers is offering several custom shirt packages at favorable prices.

Custom Shirt Packages starting at $695 (3 shirts) at hktclothiers.com

Give Away!

Our Holiday Gift Guide

Ah, the holidays are here! Along with your growing list of parties and things to get done before the end of the year, you probably have a few gifts to get and to give. But don’t worry, Peach has compiled some select items that make excellent gifts – for yourself or someone deserving of a bit of holiday cheer.

If you work out regularly, you need to get into a lululemon t-shirt. The Drysense technology is not only sweat-wicking but will keep you dry and comfortable even though you are sweaty. Plus, the tech will also hold sweaty odors at bay for dressing – and it doesn’t hurt if it’s a little sexy, too! The X-series by 2Eros is silky soft, sexy, and breathable while offering just the right lift and support for your front and back.

2eros X-Series Trunk, $30 at boynextdoormenswear.com

Say It with a Sweatshirt

Yeahbuzzy now offers the popular Queers Varsity design in a super soft special blend fleece sweatshirt. The premium hot pink felt lettering is available in two colorways (moss and charcoal) to keep you stylish and on message all winter. Queers Crew Sweatshirt Charcoal, $65 at yeahbuzzy.com

Walk On the Wild Side

Make your fashion statement piece a little wilder this season. The coat features a tiger print design on a plush faux fur, hook and eye closure, collar lapel, and a satin lining.

Designed by Alfons Dovana and produced in the U.S. Alfons Dovana Wild Tiger Coat, $695, available at alfonsdovana.com

Strappy Bag

This is the fashionable evolution of the cross-body bag. The rubberized leather and adjustable strap will make the perfect carrier for your most prized worldly possessions –and it will also carry nicely into spring and summer!

Jacquemus Le Baneto Strap Pochette Bag, $650 at jacquemus.com

Update Your Brunch Boot Game

The Chelsea boot – also known as the ‘brunch boot’ – has now become a mainstay in every man’s wardrobe. So, why not elevate your boot game, and get a pair that will also last you a lifetime of super stylish brunching?

Saint Laurent Wyatt Chelsea Boots In Suede, $1,150 at ysl. com

What’s In a Chosen name? everythIng, that’s What

By ChrIs azzopardI photos: apple tv+

In early 2022, Michaela Jaé Rodriguez made history as the first openly trans actor to win a Golden Globe, an award she earned for her role on “Pose.” Nearly a year later and she’s yet to properly celebrate that groundbreaking moment for herself and the trans community, she told me during our recent interview.

And it’s not just because she’s been busy bossing around Maya Rudolph in the Apple TV+ sitcom “Loot,” which was recently renewed for a second season. Rodriguez assured me she’d pop open a bottle of bubbly soon, but not until she was done with her ambassador duties for Citibank, which recently expanded its transgender-friendly chosen name feature to debit customers, allowing eligible Citi cardholders to update their cards with their chosen first name without requiring a legal name change.

In our interview, Rodriguez chatted about her own chosen-name experiences, her upcoming foray into music, and why “Loot” was such a “glorious surprise.”

Why was it important for you to get involved with Citi’s chosen-name campaign?

It was most important to me [because of] the youth. I think about their level of confidence when they receive something that they’ve always wanted. And I also think about just trans individuals in general, regarding who they are and their identity, how that’s most important to them. Knowing that Citibank was willing to partner [with me] was not only, I feel, outstanding and kind of an honor, but to know that they’re willing to make sure we feel protected in ourselves and our identity. Also, they’re not slow in the process because they make it happen at the drop of a dime. There’s no long hauling to giving your information and giving all of this documentation that is quite embarrassing. You don’t have to go through that process.

So thinking of all those things, and regarding the youth as well, and just trans people in general, that’s why I partnered with them. It’ll give them a peace of mind. And they can walk out and know that not only they have a card that they’re going to be using, but a card that represents the name

to their identity.

Growing up, what was the thing for you that had your chosen name on it that meant the world to you?

I was 11 years old, and I was in a music program, and I remember my dad taking me to go see “Spider-Man” with Tobey Maguire and Kirsten Dunst. And I remember them calling her MJ. And I was like, “Oh my god, those are my initials.” I wanted to be called MJ because she’s really cool, and she’s quite fab, and I love her red hair.

I remember receiving my first Equity card and them saying, “What’s your stage name?” And I said, “Well, it’s MJ Rodriguez. I’ve been called MJ all my life. That’s my name.” And they were like, “OK, perfect.” And from then on it stuck. Then, obviously, growing older, becoming a grown woman, you’re like, “OK, those little girl days are gone. People need to know who Michaela Antonia Jaé is. Who the creative artist is.”

The significance of Michaela is people getting to understand who the person is outside of the actress MJ Rodriguez. Michaela Jaé is my artist name. I wanted people to see the differentiations. I didn’t want them to stronghold me to just one character, but a multitude.

What are some of the challenges you’ve run into with changing your name?

I mean, there’s always a worry or a setback on the documentation and giving your dead name when you don’t want to give your dead name. All of these lawyers that I feel aren’t [necessary]. But yeah, I’ve gone through that, but it also didn’t deter me. It didn’t make me sad, it didn’t break me down. It just kind of pushed me a little farther.

I won’t say I was embarrassed, but I know a lot of my sisters who have also gone through this and have felt quite embarrassed about the process they have to go through with getting a name changed. And the youth won’t have to go through this anymore. They won’t have to worry about that when it comes to Citibank.

Recently, we’ve seen a wave of anti-trans

legislation, much of it focused on chosen names. What do you have to say to school administrators and politicians who’ve made it difficult for trans students to change their names and pronouns?

More than anything, I would say they need to probably open their minds and, even though they may not even receive a message like this, to open their minds and dig a little deeper into the actual human being that is there, beyond your expectations or your stigmas and ideas of who we are as people. I think what most importantly needs to be broken down is how we are as human beings. I would say just pay attention. If I were the person to give them the energy of anger, that would defeat the purpose of love. But I would say the disappointment that I have, as well, is needed for every trans person and every person who is an ally.

Regarding your Golden Globe — do you carry it everywhere you go?

[Laughs.] Believe it or not, and I always say this to everyone, but I’m a regular shmegular girl, but I still have it in my case. This may be TMI, but I don’t know if I’ve actually yet really celebrated that moment of winning it. I know it’s weird to say, but I probably need to do that.

I’d say that celebration is overdue. Yeah, it definitely is. It’s a process. It was a lot that I had to process when I won that Golden Globe. I was so, so happy. But I also felt like I didn’t deserve it. But that’s due to, I guess, the shame, and what comes with transness in the industry, and how you feel you fit or how you belong. And when I got that, I was like, “Oh my god, does this mean I truly belong?” Maybe even worse, I was wondering, “Am I deserving of this?” And I had to really take the moment, and I’m still obviously in that space. Don’t think for a second, though, that I’m not proud of myself for winning because it was a feat for so many girls who have not had space. It opened, hopefully, a good amount of doors, but also what comes with that is my reality.

I want to ask about your role on “Loot” as Sofia Salinas, which feels groundbreaking because it’s not about being trans. I read that you decided that the character would be trans, but it wouldn’t be a primary characteristic. Why was that important to you?

Being cast on this show, just a general role, was such an amazing moment in my life. I did not expect it. I did not believe I was even capable of getting that. Again, this was a totally different lane from what I am used to. I’m a drama girl, and being thrust into comedy in the most beautiful way was such a glorious surprise.

So being trans, I didn’t want people to just subject her to transness. People know me as Michaela Jaé, as a trans woman in the world. So being in that role of a woman who could possibly be trans or cis, it really bridges the gap between what actually we all go through as women, aside from being marginalized as trans. I had a show [“Pose”] where it showed the true experience of what trans women go through and I wanted, now in this moment, to try something different, make people laugh, and also let them see the struggle

of not only just trans women, but cis women in general, and women in general. How we grow, how we fight, how we strive. And Sofia — she is starchy and real stiff, OK? That is just not Miss Michaela. I love the crap out of her. I love that she’s this way. You need someone like her in your life. So I’m just like, “She helps me.” When I read the script, I was like, “Damn, sis.”

There’s a lot you could influence in the coming years. Have you thought about that and where you want your career to go from here?

I’ve continued to pursue my acting career, but I also am really excited for my music career to start fully next year. I promise it’s something that… well, I think it will be good. I promise I’m not biased.

You released the single “Something to Say” in 2021, so a full album?

Well, I don’t think it’s going to be a full album. I’m going to do an EP, just to give people a snippet and see if they like [it], and then start writing more. Because my fans are really important. I really like having my hand in being creative and having a say.

ChrisAzzopardiistheEditorialDirectorofPride Source Media Group and Q Syndicate, the nationalLGBTQ+wireservice.Hehasinterviewed amultitudeofsuperstars,includingCher,Meryl Streep,MariahCareyandBeyoncé.Hisworkhas also appeared in The New York Times, Vanity Fair,GQandBillboard.ReachhimviaTwitter@ chrisazzopardi.

Geologie’s customized regimens are based on a skin quiz

products complimenting your base regimen. One is this excellent, skin-boosting serum packed with vitamins C and E Geologie Vitamin C+E Ferulic Serum, $48 at geologie.com

scene, and with good reason: the customizable selection of products, practical packaging, and the great scent profiles of

Luxury at Lower Prices

You know that high-end fragrance is the way to go, but it can be a significant investment. Dossier Perfume replicates all the biggest and best fragrances so that you can test them out at a fraction of the cost before committing – or you can have fun trying out a bunch of different styles!

Dossier Woody Sandalwood, $49 at dossier.co

Limited Edition Duo

Give the gift of a luxury spa moment in the comfort of your own home with the limited-edition gift box designed in collaboration with Laila Gohar.

Byredo De Los Santos Body Wash and Body Lotion Set, $125 at byredo.com

Under Eye Wonder

Stick these in the fridge and pop them under your eyes for just 20 minutes and get some serious de-puffing and rehydrating effects under your eyes after that late night out after the Christmas party.

Dermora Under Eye Mask Patches, (20 pcs), $20 at amazon. com

Luxuriate Your Laundry

If you’re fed up with plain-smelling laundry detergent that ravishes your fashions with harsh chemicals, switch to a smarter way to clean clothes with Dirty Labs. With active bio enzymes, this detergent is gentle on clothes and skin, is biodegradable, and has a scent profile more like Le Labo rather than Gain.

Dirty Labs Signature Bio Enzyme Laundry Detergent, $14 (32 loads) at dirtylabs.com

The Gift of the Stars

Mark that special day or occasion like never before with a star map. Get a custom map of the exact location of the stars on a quality print and options to add your own message, framing, and different color schemes to make it all extra personal.

Starry Maps staring at $59 at starrymaps.com

Cuddle Up to a Candle

If you love scented candles and gifting them, you must check out Maison de Lecroix. The clean-burning natural wax blend combined with the incredible and effective scent profiles make these candles worth giving and getting this holiday.

Maison de Lecroix Juniper + Sweet Tobacco, $21 at shopmdlc.com

The Gift of Protection

This bicycle helmet is not only stylish but adds layers of protection to the wearer. With integrated lights, optional turn signals and brake lights, and certified crash protection, this helmet is a great way to express just how valuable you think someone is to you.

Unit 1 Faro Smart Helmet, $250 at unit1gear.com

Put a Chain On It

A stylish accessory while also signifying what you have together. A cool pendant chain is a great way to show appreciation and affection – and it isn’t a ring, so it’s not at a 100 on the commitment scale either.

MVMT Hex Necklace, $58 at mvmt.com

Monogrammed Wanderlust

A thoughtful and personal gift that could underline the resolve to travel together in the new year – or it could even be paired with a pair of tickets to a dream destination!

Mark & Graham Fillmore Vegan Leather Passport Case, $49 at markandgraham.com

Initial Advances

You’ve already gifted beautiful jewelry, so why not give it something gorgeous to live in? The personalized trinket or jewelry box with engraved initials will look perfect on any nightstand.

Personalized Monogram Jewelry Box, $50 on etsy.com

Peach Scene @

JOININ g H e ARt S CH e CK PR e S e N tAt ION

PHOtOS BY RUSS BOweN-YOUNgBLOOD

Socializers Christmas Party

@ X Midtown| December 15, 7 pm

Join the Socializers Club for the annual Christmas party. Festive attire encouraged for Peach’s onsite photographer and get ready to join an amazing raffle with extra special prizes to close out an amazing Socializers Club year.

Medusa Dirty Elf

@ Heretic | December 16, 10 pm – 3 am

The annual Medusa DIRTY ELF is back with resident DJ Paulo Fragoso! Come dressed Naughty or Nice, it’s going to be a Jolly good time.

A Hot Mess Christmas

@ The Basement

December 16, 10 pm – 3 am Ho, ho, hoes! Get festive at the long-awaited return of Nonsense’s holiday extravaganza, when the Basement is transformed into the ultimate Christmas experience!

2022 Atlanta Christkindl Market

@ Buckhead Village District Daily 3-8:30 pm until December 24 Find yourself taken back to an incredible, traditional German market at this year’s Atlanta Christkindl Market, hosted this year at The Buckhead Village District.

Furry Night

@ Atlanta Eagle| December 17, 9pm – 2am

ALP-SEBB Events presents Furry night at the Atlanta Eagle. Whether you’re a furry or just appreciate having one to snuggle up to, come out for a bit of fur fantasy.

WUSSY Prom: The Jingle Ball

@ Ammazza | December 17, 10 pm

Pull out the faux furs and formal wear and join us for the 7th annual WUSSY Prom. Music by Brian Rojas (Deep South), Esmé (La Choloteca), and Zaida Zane (MORPH) and special chaperones Kelly Mantle and Tammie Brown (meet and greets available). Tix at wussymag.com/shop.

Brownwood Ave. Holiday Pop-Up

@ Big Mamas Crib | December 18, 12 pm

Visit the Holiday Pop-Up with over 20 local vendors to shop with along with a visit from Santa from 1 until 3pm. $10 donation to go to both @East Atlanta Kids Club and @Pet Buddies Atlanta.

Tammie’s Holiday Sparkle!

@ City Winery | December 18, 12 pm

Happy Holidays, tootsie-loos! The livesinging diva of your dreams, Tammie Brown, is bringing her holiday drag spectacular ‘Holiday Sparkle’ back to Atlanta for drag brunch with special guest, Kelly Mantle! Pop that champagne and be teleported to Mars.

The Ugly Sweater Party

@ The Hideaway | December 18, 3 pm

Break out that Christmas Sweater or Onesie and Bring it on down. It’s the 5th Annual Ugly Sweater Party featuring Calico DeVille’s Parade of Sweaters Contest.

Winter Tea Dance w/ DJ Guy Scheiman

@ Future Atlanta | December 18, 6-11 pm

Show up in your sexiest holiday attire at this no cover event and dance to the beats of DJ Guy Scheiman, who makes his Future debut.

A John Waters Christmas

@ Variety Playhouse

December 19, 8-11 pm

It’s a John Waters Christmas at the Variety Playhouse in Atlanta, and your eyes will pop right out of your head. Tickets at axs.com.

I have a kink or fetish that has only gotten stronger the older I get. I get very aroused in locker rooms. I am turned on by the nudity, by the potential of voyeurism and exhibitionism, and the chance of someone checking me out. I have engaged in mutual masturbation with other guys, but I am starting to think about how my peeking could be perceived as nonconsensual or even perverted. I guess I do feel a little ashamed that I find it difficult to contain my excitement as soon as I start to get undressed to shower at the gym. How do I unpack this?

It makes no sense to ask you to stay out of the locker room because it is good for you to shower after a sweaty workout, and being naked is 100% acceptable in a locker room. So from that perspective, you are doing nothing wrong. Besides, those guys trying to get in and out of their underwear while being wrapped in a towel are so awkward. Add to that the fact that most men’s locker rooms are often somewhat erotically charged, and things can get a bit confusing. In your case, you seem to have pretty good bearings as to who is into what. Whatever you do, go slow, and even though verbal consent is likely not given, you can discreetly signal that you want to be looked at: eye contact, a slightly open shower curtain, a quick stroke, etc. There is nothing wrong with a little mutual sexual chemistry as long as others aren’t inconvenienced by it. And of course, if you engage in public sex (yes, masturbation counts too), be aware of the fact that there can be consequences that range from being banned at the gym to actual legal trouble.