Peach Magazine V5-10 - Take Charge

Take Trans Icon Angelica Ross

Celebrating Women’s History Month

On Everybody’s LIPS Brigitte Bidet Moves Up

Open relationships Is It The Right Thing?

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ontents

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MAR 17, 2021 V5-10

PEACH MEDIA 6050 Dawson Blvd, Ste O Norcross, GA 30093 MANAGING PARTNER & OPERATIONS Brian Sawyer brian@peachatl.com

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SALES | EVENTS & BRAND AMBASSADOR Josh King Josh@peachatl.com EDITORIAL Mikkel Hyldebrandt Editorial Director mikkel@peachatl.com Brian Sawyer Graphics

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SALES | DISTRIBUTION Andrea Dwyer andrea@peachatl.com

From the Editor

In recognition and celebration of March being Women’s History Month, let’s pause and reflect on the fantastic progress made but also on the progress ahead. The inaugural celebration was in 1987, and although so much has happened since then, it is also abundantly clear that there is a long way to go until women are represented equally in this world. Our cover model, trans icon, and activist Angelica Ross is the perfect example of that. As a trans woman, she still has to emphasize the simple fact that trans women are women too. Read her incredible interview on page 12, where she states it beautifully: “… if we’re going to celebrate – truly celebrate – the beautiful, diverse spectrum of womanhood, then we need to celebrate Black women, that includes Black trans women, Latinx women, women who have been struggling with fertility in this world.”

Happy Women’s History Month

CONTRIBUTORS Marci Alt Chris Azzopardi Vince Shifflett NATIONAL AD REP Rivendell Media 908.232.2021

Mikkel Hyldebrandt

Editorial Director | IG @hyldebrandt ONLINE

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

Celebrating Women Photographers

1. Mickalene Thomas (American, born 1971), Les Trois Femmes Deux, 2018, dye coupler print, High Museum of Art, Atlanta, purchase with funds from the Friends of Photography, 2018.214

3. Sandy Skoglund (American, born 1946), Gathering Paradise, 1991, dye coupler print, 47 x 60 ½ inches, Gift of Mr. and Mrs. James L. Henderson, III, 1991.270

Zanele Muholi (South African, born 1972), Zibuyile I (Syracuse), 2015, gelatin silver print, 25 5/8 x 17 inches, purchase with funds from the Donald and Marilyn Keough Family and the H. B. and Doris Massey Charitable Trust, 2017.300

Come out to support and empower the Latinx community!

In continuation of Women’s History Month, the High Museum of Art will present “Underexposed: Women Photographers from the Collection,” an exhibition featuring more than 100 photographs from the Museum’s collection, including many that have never before been exhibited. The artworks demonstrate women’s notable contributions throughout the history of photography, spanning from innovators of the medium to contemporary practitioners investigating the intersections of photography, representation, and identity.

Originally conceived in conjunction with the centennial of the passage of the 19th Amendment, “Underexposed” pays homage to the work of women who have pioneered and championed the art of photography from its earliest days through today. The exhibition is arranged roughly chronologically and showcases distinct arenas in which women photographers flourished and often led the way: as professionals working across multiple genres; as avid experimenters pushing photography into new directions; as teachers and patrons who supported the growth of the medium; and as creative, critically engaged artists exploring such issues as gender, identity, and politics.

WHAT Underexposed: Women Photographers from the Collection WHEN April 17 - August 1, 2021 WHERE The High Museum Tickets at high.org 8 | follow us @ peachatlmag

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By Marci Alt Photo: Meak Productions Productions

Because we all need a wise, Lesbian BFF! As always, I want to thank my editor, Mikkel, who is always there to lend a helping sentence. You and the Peach ATL team really have made me feel welcomed and comfortable.

This is an exciting week with the launch of my new podcast, “Let’s Chat,” with Ginger Nichols and me. Please check it out; I promise Ginger and I will have your ears listening and your laughter loud. Also, thanks to my readers - keep up the questions coming! I love answering them. It may not be the right one, but I will answer.

Dear Lesbo It pains me to ask this question as most men would find it annoying that I’m complaining about my lover and his sexual erotic fantasies.

My friends complain about their lack of sex, and I dream that would be a good problem. My question is that my lover wants sex morning, noon, and night, and rarely is it just simple sex.

I have been a top for 20 years, but for the past six years, my partner has been more the top. My first issue is that I feel like sometimes I’m being abused or pounded like a rag doll. Lately, his fantasy is me being tied up and constrained to where if I struggle, it hurts, and he gets upset.

Having sex 2-3 times per day has left me raw and dreading his footsteps. I love him; I just don’t want to hurt him. How do I tell him we need to be versatile and share being a top? I believe I have created a sex monster that can’t be tamed. Please help, as breaking up is not the answer.

Hurting Homo

promise he will alter his newfound studliness.

Let him know you were interested in a versatile lover, so you introduced him to being a top. If this doesn’t work, go to Tokyo Valentino and buy him a male stud DOLL to F*CK! Trust me; he will adhere to your requests willingly.

Dear Lesbo I am so tired of all the apartments and condos being built in Atlanta. Soon enough, there will be no more places like Joe’s or Einstein’s. Our community has so few places for such a big city. Is there any way you can help me fight this concrete jungle that Midtown is turning into? I am all for progress; however, when does it end?

Concrete City Crud Concrete Crud Unfortunately, I can’t help you with this as I am not a gazillionaire that could stop this kind of thing. I suggest keeping your dollars going into small businesses so they will thrive and won’t have to close. The pandemic has hurt so many businesses, so this may be Metrotainment’s only way out. Local restaurants and stores really need our help.

I believe this is the only way to preserve the businesses we love to frequent. I know this may not be the answer you’re looking for, but it’s the best I got.

Marci Alt is a household name within the Atlanta LGBTQ+ community – she created the The Gay Community Yellow Pages and runs the popular Gayborhood online platform.

Being part of the community does not give her the experience alone to answer the questions on this page, but many years owning and running several successful businesses and being the parent of two amazing children Wow Hurting Homo I feel your pain; thankfully, it’s not literal for certainly quantifies her knowledge, that she so generously me. This answer is really quite easy. Sit the shares with you in this column.

STUD MONSTER down and just be honest. Let him know you love him and that he is physically Do you have a question to Ask the Lesbo? Please email your hurting you as well as mentally. If you tell him questions to marci@peachatl.com. this behavior will make you stop having sex, I

Flaming Out, Flaming Over

By Chris Azzopardi Photos: Joseph Rivera and James Anthony

For Angelica Ross, her short time on “Pose” wasn’t an end — it was a beginning.

After famously portraying Candy Ferocity on the FX series, which depicts New York City ball culture, Ross starred in another Ryan Murphy production, “American Horror Story: 1984,” making her the first trans woman to have two series-regular roles.

Today one of the most prominent trans names in Hollywood, Ross uses her spotlight to bring attention to pressing issues that affect the trans community. Last year, she signed a TV development deal with the production company Pigeon to develop and co-produce scripted and nonscripted content. She also serves as a consultant who has a hand in shaping trans narratives. And since 2014, she’s been running her own business, TransTech Social Enterprises, which helps trans people secure jobs in the workforce. In 2019, Ross became the first trans person to host a presidential forum when she moderated the firstof-its-kind event, with candidates Joe Biden, Pete Buttigieg and Elizabeth Warren debating LGBTQ+ issues.

Now on a new song with dance pop diva Ultra Naté and trans activist and performer Mila Jam,

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Ross brings her signature sense of empowerment and resilience to help put an end to the epidemic of violence against trans women of color.

“Fierce” is an electro-pop anthem that also serves as a charitable release with the mission of enlightening, educating and celebrating the trans community. The proceeds benefit the GLAAD Transgender Media Program, The Sylvia Rivera Law Project and The Marsha P. Johnson Institute.

During a recent Zoom interview, Ross talked about the single’s origins, celebrating our trans foremothers during Women’s History Month and what else needs to be talked about when it comes to trans women in Hollywood.

I was gonna ask how fierce you feel. Because you look fierce.

Thank you! I feel very, very fierce today. I had some great makeup done today. I’m feeling great.

Lately things have been kicking into high gear because I’m promoting a song, I’m going back to work on “American Horror Story.” There’s just a lot. I’m producing television shows. Like, there’s a lot on my plate right now. If I can put on a face at the beginning of the day, then it can take me throughout all my meetings.

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How did “Fierce” come together?

It’s pretty amazing: Anthony Preston, from A2 (Productions), contacted me. He had this song he had been working on with Ultra Naté, and she has been on the dance charts for just a while rocking the dance charts as a Black woman. Anthony being a Black queer man, her being someone in the dance genre who’s been around LGBTQ folks and who’s been an ally for so long — they wanted this to be like a rally cry, an inclusive one, to not just include all women but also bring light to the issues that trans women (are) facing. So they brought on Mila Jam; she ended up singing the second verse to the song. And so (Anthony) played the song for me and I was like, “Um, Anthony, I need to be on this song. You need to put me on this song.”

So I ended up singing the hook to the song: “Be legendary, be necessary, be extraordinary.” And I guess the rest is history from there. But now it’s got two trans women and a cis woman standing in solidarity, really calling everyone to the dance floor to celebrate themselves.

I’m curious what the word “fierce” means to you and when in your life you first felt fierce.

I have been a fierce queen for a very long time. And for me, fierce comes out of this resistance and this resilience that really bucks up against the system that would rather have you cower down or dim your light for people, but instead I’m gonna burn brighter than I ever have and I’m gonna be fierce about everything that I do.

And I think I’ve been doing that since, you know, probably grade school. So to finally have an opportunity at this level to have an accumulation of fierceness — at this point, I’m flaming out. I’m flaming over. I’m boiling out. It’s just so much fierceness going on it can’t even be contained. So we had to put it in a song, so you can put it on repeat and put it in rotation and play it again, and again, and again.

If ever there was a moment to feel fierce, I feel like it’s now, right?

You have to. Right now is a time where there’s so much being thrown at us and so much trying to take our energy and to get us to give up, or to want to not fight back against the system. But again, now more than ever we need to be fierce about who we are.

The proceeds from “Fierce” are being donated to a variety of trans organizations working to end violence against trans women. What else can those who want to get involved do?

Well, here’s the deal: I want to encourage folks to realize that we are in the year 2021 and that most of us who are a little older thought that we’d be flying on skateboards by now or doing a lot of things by now. But actually we’re still fighting for some of the same rights that we were fighting for during the ’60s and the ’50s, and even before.

So what I want folks to realize is that when we talk about trans equality or racial equality none of these conversations are new. They are just new to you. Which means there’s so much information out there for you to get on your own. There’s no need to use the labor of a Black trans woman who’s already burdened by society. There’s no need to ask a Black woman to give you the inside on Black Lives

Matter when you can hit play on so many of the accounts from organizations to individual activists who are telling you exactly what the issues are.

So what I would say is easily open up the Google browser and just say, “Trans rights.” Go there.

“LGBTQ rights.” “Racial justice.” These are just keywords that you can Google. But then understand that I don’t care whether you are white, Black, Latino, Asian — I don’t care what ethnicity, religion, sexual orientation (you are). Whoever you are, I want you to recognize that you have power to change the world, which means you have power to change the things that are going on right now.

The violence against trans women — how? By learning how to speak up from your own perspective, in your own circles and in your own workplaces and in your own homes. Know that there is always an opportunity. And from my Buddhist practice, I learned this acronym “NOW.” When you want to know when is the time I should speak up or say something: NOW. No Opportunity Wasted. Even if you don’t feel that person can fully take on what you are going to say, you can at least drop a seed now that will blossom later.

While we’re on the topic of shedding light on the danger trans men and women experience on a daily basis, your role on “Pose” did just that. When you look back at your time on “Pose,” what do you hope is the lasting legacy of your role?

You know for me it was never about the awards, although it would have been nice to be recognized for the performance and the contribution you’re giving. But also, there’s always been this conversation around trans actors and saying that folks like Jared Leto or these cis men are more qualified to play trans women when I just played Candy Ferocity and the world listened and the world cried.

I know this because they tagged me in all of their videos. And I don’t mean that in a light way. I mean that I felt the wave of love from the audience because they tagged me in it on Twitter, on Facebook, on TikTok, on Instagram, on every platform to let me know that they get it now and that they watched it with their family and their family gets it now. So, for me, that’s all the reward that I need: knowing that the world is changing from something that I helped put out into the world.

You’re the first trans woman to have two series regular roles, with “Pose” and “American Horror Story.” On “American Horror Story,” your character didn’t identify as trans, though Candy does. Is it important to you that trans actors are not just seen as people who can only play trans characters?

I think we’re finally getting to the point here. The point is: an actor is an actor is an actor. Sometimes people want to say actress, but in reality, most of us who are on the feminist vibe, we still say “actor” because an actor is an actor is an actor. And at the end of the day, I can play a trans woman if I’m the best person for the part. And I can play a cis person or not — just a person in the script — if I’m the best person for the part. But you (are) not going to tell me that Ving Rhames is going to play

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a better trans woman than myself. I mean, that was cute in “Holiday Heart.” That was fine for the time and he did his best with that, let me tell you.

But you know, now you can see these pieces of art will stand next to each other when you compare the performances of (Mj Rodriguez as) Blanca (on “Pose”) and Indya Moore and Hailie Sahar and Dominique (Jackson) and Shakina (Nayfack) from “Difficult People,” Alexandra Grey, Alexandra Billings, Laverne Cox, Trace Lysette. There are so many trans actors out there who are proving the point that we can represent ourselves better than anybody else can but also we can play everyday roles. Because why? Trans people exist in everyday society.

I was thinking of “Disclosure,” the Netflix documentary about trans depiction in the media that you were a part of.

There have been many conversations around what it’s like being trans in Hollywood.

But what is not talked about when it comes to being trans in this business that needs to be talked about?

I love that “Disclosure” talked a lot about how trans representation in media has been throughout our history, but I’m now a consulting producer on a show that is coming up – can I say something? I think so (laughs). But I’m a consulting producer for something for network television that is going to be coming out that is going to talk about what it’s like as actors, actually, in the industry. So I think we haven’t actually talked about what our experience is in the casting room: dealing with casting directors, being on set as a trans person and the challenges that we face.

So definitely look forward to that conversation during Pride Month in June on network television on E! But yeah, honestly, as someone who works in front of the camera as well as behind the camera, I’m going to continue to look to how we can tell these stories from different angles and be even more inclusive.

As a trans woman, what does it mean to you to be the face of Louis Vuitton?

As a Black trans woman, to be in my second Louis Vuitton campaign — the first one where I was able to wear my natural afro and just my natural hair and everybody was on board for it — and cut my hair

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completely off and wear it natural and still be able to give an amazing vibe that is at the same time female and feminine and also non-binary, it’s all of the things. So I was just able to just be myself, and that’s what I love about Louis Vuitton is that however I come to the table, they just recognize my beauty as a Black trans woman and that’s amazing.

You are the CEO and founder of TransTech Social Enterprises, which provides job training and professional support for transgender men and women, as well as non-binary and gender non-conforming people. What has been its impact since it launched in 2014?

Well, listen, think about this: When I was younger, I went to places like Discovery Zone or the science museum in Chicago, or for some people it’s the Apple Store. And going into the Apple Store — for me, 10 years ago, I used to actually work for the Apple Store — and that’s why I even mention it because I understand what it’s like to be wowed by technology and all of a sudden discover you can do and be creative and do something beyond what you’re currently doing.

For me, that is the essence that I brought to TransTech because I realized technology was actually in the hands of people who were helping to oppress me, meaning other folks had gotten the whim of technology to create adult websites and things that were sort of exploiting trans women. And being in the sex industry, what I realized from myself being marginalized into that space was that I didn’t have to take my clothes off, I didn’t have to be exploited, but I could work behind the website on graphic design or on retouching photos or on coding, CSS, HTML.

So I discovered there was such a spectrum in technology. So now in 2021, with TransTech, when I say tech I also mean people who have podcasts, folks working in sound engineering or working in film or lighting. There are so many things that trans can now have access to if they can just have access to training that involves technology because that’s what this new environment is driven by.

In honor of March being Women’s History Month, why is it important that, when we celebrate Women’s History Month, we also

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make sure we celebrate trans women?

It’s just as simple as this: trans women are women.

So if we’re going to celebrate – truly celebrate – the beautiful, diverse spectrum of womanhood then we need to celebrate Black women, that includes Black trans women, Latinx women, women who have been struggling with fertility in this world.

So many times when we talk about racial justice movements, women are just left out of the narrative when it’s many times women who are leading that narrative. And many times, trans women who are in those spaces (are) leading that narrative. And I will

tranny; except for you, you homo.” So that’s why I say Black Trans Lives Matter. I wouldn’t have to say it if I didn’t have to say it.

Who is the most influential trans woman you know?

For me, I feel like Marsha P. Johnson is one of the most influential trans women because her name is finally echoing throughout this movement to understand who we should be focusing on. But also voices like Janet Mock, who, even though she’s younger than I am, is someone who is really

go forward even to say when we talk about men’s issues that we talk and include trans men as well because trans men are men.

pioneering this industry and opening up many doors for many of us to walk through, including myself.

It sounds so simple and yet for so many people it’s not, so I think it’s important to still talk about it.

It’s important to talk about it until we understand that we’re still in a situation (where) if I go to certain rallies in certain places and I say “Black Lives Matter” and somebody recognizes that I am trans I might be in danger. So in these moments they’re saying, “Black Lives Matter, except for you,

This interview has been lightly edited and condensed for clarity.

As editor of Q Syndicate, the LGBTQ wire service, Chris Azzopardi has interviewed a multitude of superstars, including Cher, Meryl Streep, Mariah Carey and Beyoncé. His work has also appeared in The New York Times, Vanity Fair, GQ and Billboard.

Reach him via Twitter @chrisazzopardi. | 15

Brigitte Bidet Back in Heels and On Everybody’s Lips

By Mikkel Hyldebrandt

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She is fierce and fabulous, and she is the new emcee at Lips for their Thursday night Divas Show.

We spoke to the incredible Brigitte Bidet about life after a full year of living under a pandemic, feeling optimistic about soon being able to do live shows, and the new gig that has her on everybody’s lips.

For those few who need introductions of you, please welcome to the stage…

Hello! I’m Brigitte Bidet. It’s like “Bridget” but French and Bidet like... a bidet. Brigitte is a drag queen, emcee, and showgirl here in Atlanta. I perform at all the bars and clubs in the city and work a lot with Wussy Mag on producing queer media and events.

With things starting to look up in terms of vaccination rollout and people cautiously starting to get back out there, what are your hopes and plans for the summer?

Last time we chatted, you were busy being an activist to get people to vote, you performed at select, safe, and socially distanced events, and your podcast was really taking off? What’s the Brigitte Bidet status now?

Your Good Judy podcast is still going strong. Can you give us an update on that too?

I’m holding on to Daddy Fauci’s words; he said adults will be vaccinated by the end of May, and that’s what I’m hoping for! I might be a little too optimistic, but it beats the alternative. We’ve all had a rough year, especially the Drag Queens.

Here’s to getting back on our high-heeled feet!

Like, I’m totally ready to see a performer fall down the stairs at Mary’s. It’s just been too long. I need to see it.

The podcast is still going strong. Stream Good Judy every Tuesday and Friday! Lately, Brigitte has been gearing up for the reopening of everything. Vaccines are going out, and I see a light at the end of the tunnel! I plan to stay engaged with local politics and will always be thinking of ways to create more accessible events. But for now, I’m just ready to be a professional party girl out in public again!

As with all things in my life, we find ourselves doing the *most* over at Good Judy. We’ve got some exciting film projects in the works (join our Patreon!) We are also focusing more on how podcasts can serve as archives for Queer History. We recently interviewed Lena Lust and Jayne County and being able to hear their stories resonated with our listeners of all ages. By having them on as guests and hearing about their lives and careers, we are actively cataloging LGBTQ+ history. It’s f*ckin fierce.

Speaking of events: you are now the hostess of the Thursday night Divas Show at Lips Atlanta! Tell us about your new, amazing gig.

With a spring and summer that seems to be kicking back into gear for you, what’s next for the illustrious Brigitte Bidet?

YAS. I’m thrilled to be working in such a fierce, theatre-style environment. It is dinner and a show, hunny! Sometimes in the bars, it can feel like you’re competing for attention. At Lips, they come for the show. Queens are the main attraction, and that’s an amazing feeling. Come see me and my ~oral expressions~ every Thursday night!

LIVE SHOWS. Please put a strep-covered dollar bill in my mouth. A $20 if you’re feeling like a feminist! Let’s do this!

Lips is such an incredible and important franchise – how does it feel to be an official part of their stellar lineup?

Well, first of all, THANK YOU for giving a lil’ crossdresser like me a platform. Becoming a full-time DRAG QUEEN in Atlanta, Georgia, has been an amazing journey so far, and it is my reality because of other people’s support. Stay tuned to all things Brigitte on social media @brigittebidet, and be sure to listen to the Good Judy podcast! XOXO

It feels super validating as an emcee to get hired there. I am following in some pretty legendary footsteps... just trying to soak it all in and learn from these amazing queens. Christian Valentino showed me the ropes when I first got hired, so I really got a master class on how to own the room. I feel like it set the stage for how much I’ll grow as an artist by working there. I can’t wait to learn some new dick jokes and make fun of drunk bachelorettes! #CareerGoals.

Can you reveal a little bit about the performances at this fierce and fabulous show?

The theme is DIVAS, so everyone is giving their best drag! Their most glamorous costumes and show-stopping numbers. We have some celebrity illusions as well, but it’s also about showing off your own definition of Diva! The girls serve up a lot of different looks and vibes, so there’s certainly something for everyone. Especially straight guys.

They seem to really enjoy themselves...

We can’t enough of you, so where can our readers follow you to be up to date on Brigitte?

WHAT The Divas Hosted by Brigitte Bidet WHEN Thursdays, 7 – 10 pm (seating at 7-7:30 pm) WHERE Lips Atlanta lipsatl.com | Reservations at 404.315.7711

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Open Relationship: Is It the Right Thing?

Open Relationship. Is it right for you and your partner/spouse? I have seen a huge increase in the number of my readers contacting me to talk about this very issue, so I decided to write about it.

Growing up, it was absolutely unheard of to have anything but a monogamous relationship.

Or at least that is what was taught in the church and by society, while at the same time infidelity was rampant both in the church and in society. Is monogamy realistic?

Let me first start by being clear that I do not believe there is a right or wrong when it comes to relationships? No judgment. It is whatever works for the people involved in the relationship and not for others to decide or judge.

I tried monogamous relationships. I have been in them most of my life because I believed it was the right thing to do. The rise of divorce and infidelity led me to ponder this issue. Are we perhaps trying to put ourselves in this little box that society and religion have told us we belong in once again?

You meet that special one, get married, have two kids, the house with the white picket fence, and you live happily ever after. Sounds beautiful, but the research is showing that it doesn’t work for many. Again, not being judgmental but instead just thinking outside the box. That box that we’ve been put in.

There are many different types of relationships. There are monogamous relationships, polyamorous relationships, open relationships, and more. Open is defined by the people involved. It is important to have a conversation, so both are on the same page with what open actually means. Again, no right or wrong.

I am currently in an open relationship. It is my first and has turned out to be my best.

There seems to be a huge tendency for people to say they are in a monogamous relationship while at the same time lying, cheating, being deceitful, and harboring secrets. How healthy is that? In my opinion, it is much healthier to be honest and have the open conversations without judgment. Why would one choose to cheat, lie, and harbor secrets as opposed to an open, honest conversation and relationship?

People evolve and change, which can make relationships challenging. You must be able to have the conversations as you evolve without fear of judgment from your partner or fear of losing them. I know for me, I stayed in a “monogamous” relationship out of fear of losing my partner. I instead cheated, lied, and hid things from him. Ultimately that ended the relationship.

An open relationship is not a license to be careless or disrespectful to the one you love.

Maintaining respect is essential. Neither myself nor my partner actively goes out looking for sex with others, but we are both adult enough to realize that it could happen on a rare occasion. For us, it is about no judgment. We do not feel the need to talk about it if it does happen. We just have an understanding between us with parameters that are good for us.

Sex does not equal love. Just because I have that rare occasion when sex may occur with another does not mean I am in love with them.

I am in love with my partner and have full trust in his love for me. Could it perhaps be a lack of trust and insecurity that causes one to suppress their normal desires or act on them in secrecy? Could it be tradition that keeps one in a “monogamous” relationship? Could it possibly be fear that your partner will fall in love with the person he has sex with? Are any

of these good reasons to remain monogamous?

Sex has many different purposes. It is obviously used for procreation, but it is also used for pleasure. Sex can be a spiritual experience when shared with the one you love. It is a way to bring the two of you closer together.

Vince is an author, speaker, registered nurse, and popular blogger. You can sign up to receive his monthly blog on his website at vinceshifflett.com.

If monogamy is for you and it is working with no secrets, lies, or cheating, then it is a beautiful thing. Having said that, open relationships and polyamorous relationships are also beautiful. The main question to ask yourself is, are you totally happy in your relationship? Can you get everything you need from one person? What type of relationship do you desire? What type of relationship best suits your ideas?

I chose honesty. I chose healthy conversations.

I chose unconditional love without judgment.

I chose to be my authentic self. I chose an open relationship.

Whatever type of relationship you choose to be in, remember there is no right or wrong. Let us end the judgment of others who choose a different type of relationship than us.

Much love, Vince

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WINTER TO SPRING RECAP ALL MASKED UP Photos by Snow

WINTER TO SPRING RECAP THE QUEENS Photos by Snow, Voss Events

CARSON COWAN REALTOR® c. 404.998.9944 / o. 404.874.0300 / carson@carsoncowan.com / CarsonCowanRealEstate

Atlanta Fine Homes, LLC fully supports the principles of the Fair Housing Act and the Equal Opportunity Act. Each franchise is independently owned and operated.

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PREMIERING ON 3/14

LET’S CHAT Marci

with

and Ginger

A podcast and chat show by Atlanta legendaries Marci Alt and Ginger Nichols Tune in as this dynamic duo explores current issues, share life experiences, and dive into the topics that you want to hear about!

Available on meakproductions.com, Mixcloud, and Soundcloud COMING UP ON THE NEXT EPISODE Let’s Chat with Cathy Woolard Let’s Chat is produced and published by

WINTER TO SPRING RECAP THE TRADE Photos by Snow

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FRIDAYS @ 10pm $17 BEER BUCKETS $6 ABSOLUT COCKTAILS

THE PLACE TO BE

1544 PIEDMONT AVE, NE ATLANTA, GA 30324 ANSLEY MALL - BEHIND PUBLIX

Taylor has lived in Atlanta for over 20 years, and his husband Warren and him will celebrate their 21st-anniversary this year. Taylor received his MBA from Georgia State University and currently is an executive in the corporate real estate industry for over ten years. Both Taylor and Warren enjoy updating their mid-century modern home, running errands with their grandsons, and extensive travel, including Argentina, Colombia, Australia, India, Spain, and Greece.

Taylor loves music, including symphony orchestra, 80s/90s alternative, and EDM. Favorite bands include PSB, Depeche Mode, and Above & Beyond.

Taylor Tisdale

IG @Taylor_Atl

Meet Our Newest Peach As the newest addition to the Peach Sales Team, you’ll be seeing a lot more of Josh!

We’re here to showcase your business and services, so give Josh a call!

PRINT ADVERTISING • DIGITAL PROMOTION EVENT MARKETING • PRINT SOLUTIONS Josh King josh@peachatl.com (404) 814-3014 – ext. 702

PEACH MEDIA & PRINTING

March 17 - 24

We believe in safety first, so this lineup features mainly virtual events or in-person events with limited capacity that enforce CDC guidelines.

Please keep yourself updated on an event’s status as it may change last-minute.

VIRTUAL Business Builder Lunch OUT Georgia presents their Virtual Business Builder Lunch (BBL) series, bringing Georgia’s LGBTQ+ and allied business owners, nonprofit leaders, and professionals together for a concentrated networking session centered on referrals and connections. Register at outgeorgia.org.

Thursday, March 18, 12 – 1 pm Online Event Botanical Garden Party Celebrate spring’s arrival surrounded by thousands of beautiful blooms during Garden Party, an exclusive evening of live music, specialty drinks, and more amidst stunning spring color. Masks are required and social distance required—tickets at atlantabg.org/calendar/garden-party.

Saturday, March 20, 5 pm Atlanta Botanical gardens Queer Threads Pop-Up Thrift Store In need of some new threads and on a budget? Look no further! Queer Threads, Southern Fried Queer Pride’s pop-up thrift shop, is doing a $5 grab bag sale! They will provide a bag, and you only pay $5 for everything you can put in the bag.

March 20-21 Georgia Beer Garden SheNUNigans LIVE Join the Atlanta Sisters for a fun hour of chat, entertainment, and dishing about community happenings broadcasted live on Facebook and YouTube.

Sunday, March 21, 7 pm Online Event

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MIDTOWN 1

Monroe Dr. NE

14

Amsterdam Ave.

12th St. NE

NE ve . tA

Piedmont Park

on

11

dm

6

18

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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

Charle s Alle n Dr . N E

12 W. Peachtree St. NW

15

16

P o n ce D e Leo n Pl . N E

Spring St. NW

17

4th St. NE

8

13

Ponce De Leon Ave. NE

4

Ponce De Leon Ave. NE

BARS

Dining

2 Blake's 3 Bulldogs 4 Friends

227 10th St NE 893 Peachtree St NE 736 Ponce De Leon Ave NE

6 My Sister’s Room 7 Ten Atlanta

66 12th St NE 990 Piedmont Ave NE

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

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

clubs 13 Atlanta Eagle

306 Ponce De Leon Ave NE

fitness

retail 8 Barking Leather

9 10 11 12

306 Ponce De Leon Ave NE

14 Urban Body Fitness 500 Amsterdam Ave NE

spa/bath 15 Flex Spa

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

ansley 21

idg

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on tC ir .

NE

BARS 2043 Cheshire Bridge Rd 1086 Alco St NE 1931 Piedmont Cir NE

1842 Cheshire Bridge Rd 1824 Cheshire Bridge Rd

32 33 34 35 36

Midtown Moon Felix's The Hideaway Mixx Oscar's

1510 Piedmont Ave Suite A 2205 Cheshire Bridge Rd 2069 Cheshire Bridge Rd 1739 Cheshire Bridge Rd

Fitness 2201 Faulkner Rd NE

Spa / bath 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 38 Eclectic Bistro

clubs

30 Gravitee Fitness

e. nt mo ed Pi

Piedmont Park

Retail

28 Heretic 29 Tokyo Valentino

39

36

d.

Dining

26 Barking Leather 27 Southern Nights

41

38

BARS

24 Las Margaritas 25 Roxx

Av

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28 20

25 r eB

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26 35

24

20 BJ Roosters 21 Sequel 22 Tripps

42 The Den

40

32

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31

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27

33

. NE

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29

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34

x Rd

Manchester St. NE

Piedmont Rd. NE

22

42 L

Fa

BL

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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 The T Woof's

1287 Glenwood Ave SE 466 Edgewood Ave SE 1400 Northside Dr NW 3011 Buford Hwy NE 465 Boulevard SE 494 Plasters Ave NE

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

BARS & CLUBS MIDTOWN ATLANTA EAGLE atlantaeagle.com 306 Ponce De Leon Ave NE BLAKE’S ON THE PARK blakesontheparkatlanta.com 227 10th St NE BULLDOGS 893 Peachtree St NE FRIENDS NEIGHBORHOOD BAR friendsonponce-atl. com 736 Ponce De Leon Ave NE MY SISTER’S ROOM mysistersroom.com 66 12th St NE TEN ATLANTA tenatlanta.com 990 Piedmont Ave NE THE T modeltatlanta.com 465 Boulevard SE CHESHIRE HERETIC hereticatlanta.com 2069 Cheshire Bridge Road BJ ROOSTERS bjroosters.com 2043 Cheshire Bridge Road NE SEQUEL 1086 Alco St NE TRIPPS 1931 Piedmont Circle N

ANSLEY MIDTOWN MOON 1492 Piedmont Ave NE FELIX’S 1510 Piedmont Ave NE THE HIDEAWAY 1544 Piedmont Ave NE MIXX mixxatlanta.com 1492 Piedmont Ave NE OSCAR’S oscarsatlanta.com 1510 Piedmont Ave NE WOOFS woofsatlanta.com 494 Plasters Ave NE EAST ATLANTA, GRANT PARK & EDGEWOOD MARY’S marysatlanta.com 1287 Glenwood Ave SE SISTER LOUISA’S CHURCH sisterlouisaschurch. com 466 Edgewood Ave SE SWINGING RICHARDS swingingrichards. com 1400 Northside Dr NW

DINING MIDTOWN 10TH & PIEDMONT 10thandpiedmont. com 991 Piedmont Ave NE EINSTEIN’S einsteinsatlanta. com 1077 Juniper St NE FROGS CANTINA frogsmidtown.com 931 Monroe Dr G’S gsmidtown.com 219 10th St NE

RETAIL MIDTOWN BARKING LEATHER AFTER DARK barkingleather.com 306 Ponce De Leon Ave NE CHESHIRE SOUTHERN NIGHTS VIDEO 2205 Cheshire Bridge Rd NE ANSLEY BOY NEXT DOOR MENSWEAR boynextdoormenswear.com 1447 Piedmont Ave NE

HENRY’S henrysatl.com 132 10th St NE

GCB & PLEASURES brushstrokesatlanta. com 1510 Piedmont Ave. NE

JOE’S ON JUNIPER joesonjuniper.com 1049 Juniper St NE

BARKING LEATHER barkingleather.com 1510 Piedmont Ave Suite A

LA HACIENDA lahaciendamidtown. com 900 Monroe Dr NE CHESHIRE LAS MARGARITAS lasmargaritasmidtown.com 1842 Cheshire Bridge Rd NE ROXX 1824 Cheshire Bridge Rd NE DEKALB LIPS ATLANTA atldragshow.com 3011 Buford Hwy NE

FITNESS MIDTOWN URBAN BODY FITNESS urbanbodyfitness.com 500 Amsterdam Ave N

CHESHIRE

GRAVITEE FITNESS graviteeatl.com 2201 Faulkner Rd NE

SPAS/BATHS ADULT FLEX SPA flexspas.com 76 4th St NW CHESHIRE THE DEN thedenatlanta.com 2135 Liddell Drive NE

peach CLASSIFIEDS

Atlanta’s premier for as little as

LGBT MAGAZINE

35 per week! $

Email jeff@peachatl.com for more information.

ADVERTISE In Atlanta’s Premier LGBT Magazine for a little as $35 Per week!

Email: jeff@peachatl.com for more info.

10

LGBTQ+ artists in Atlanta to support

Atlanta’s bustling art scene has suffered from living a whole year under a pandemic. Here is a list of amazing Atlantabased LGBTQ+ artists who you should keep your eyes on, because they are amazing – and support if you have the means!

(In no particular order) 1. Barry Lee Illustrator, Muralist & Storyteller barrylee.co 2. Jody Fausett Photographer jacksonfineart.com 3. Terry Hardy Painter, sculptor, performance and installations artist hardyspace.com 4. John Folsom Multimedia Artist johnfolsomonline.com 5. Allison Shockley painter, sculptor, and drawer allisonshockley.com

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6. Suellen Parker Sculptor, Photographer, Multimedia whitespace814.com 7. Bret Busch Musician babyrobotmedia.com/bretbusch 8. Jon Dean Photographer, founder of Wussy Mag jondeanphoto.com 9. Jon Arge Photographer exhibits.libraries.emory.edu 10. Alli Royce Soble Photographer, Painter, Mixed Media houseofsobolovitz.com

www.peachatl.com

Playmates and soul mates...

Atlanta:

678-528-2525

18+ MegaMates.com

We’re closer to Atlanta than you think!

Get the details on our website calendar.

Membership Required * Must be 21 to Enter

Pool Opens April 1!

24-Hour Day Passes Available!

RV Sites Heated Cabins Tent Sites 706-213-8081 www.camptheriversedge.com

The Rivers Edge Campground, 2311 Pulliam Mill Road, Dewy Rose, GA 30634

We got in a fight again

E-mail your Peach Pits to mikkel@PeachATL.com

Oh no, over what?

Grindr is the best place to find a husband. Sure, it’s someone else’s husband, but there are a lot on there!

Anybody is allowed to send me $1400. It doesn’t have to be the government!

ByI cutting off the sleeves didn’t want to give him of more all your t-shirts? money Doesn’t he have a job?

Yes, but he expects me to pay for things

If all he does is yell and ask for money, you should just date a pastor. Dump him!

I love wearing a mask so I can be ugly in peace

Don’t let anyone ruin your day!

It’s YOUR day. Ruin it yourself I wish I could donate body fat to those in need. I would be so generous

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Daddy Joke Alert I Gays: “I love all body types”

Daddy Joke Alert II Congratulations to my liver, employee of the month since March, 2020

www.peachatl.com

VIRGO (AUG. 23 - SEP. 22) You’ll be quite the therapist today as friends come to you with their problems. You’ll offer uncanny insight into their troubles, and they’ll thank you for your help. Their thanks may be short-lived, however, after they get your Venmo request, and they discover that your services don’t come cheap.

LIBRA (SEP. 23 - OCT. 22) Share your manscaping skills with friends today, because some of them may really need it. Teach them the value of good grooming and always looking your best. If it works for you, it can work for them, even those with the grooming habits of a caveman.

ARIES (MAR. 21 - APR. 19)

SCORPIO (OCT. 23 - NOV. 21)

Your emotions could get the best of you today if you don’t find an outlet. Don’t think you’re that your masculinity is threatened In fact, afterward, You’ll experience how empowering letting your true feelings shine feels, and you will feel like a new man.

Stock up on extra Kleenex today if you plan on watching any sad shows tonight. Even the manliest of men can benefit from a good cry, so let yourself go. But you may have explaining to do should friends stop by in the middle of Wandavision – they won’t believe that you were just peeling onions.

TAURUS (APR. 20 - MAY 20)

SAGITTARIUS (NOV. 22 - DEC. 21)

You may be sick of the snooty attitude of men, so hang out with your gal pals today. Plan fun activities like a walk in the park or socially distanced dinner. You’ll enjoy the unique perspective a woman bring to the table. They, in turn, will greatly appreciate the cosmetic and beauty tips you’ll pass on to them.

You may find yourself attracted to someone who is completely different from you. Your energies may be mismatched, but you’ll swear there’s an attraction. The only way to find out is to approach him. That’s when you’ll find out he’s from a different country, and you don’t even speak the same language.

GEMINI (MAY 21 - JUN. 20)

CAPRICORN (DEC. 22 - JAN. 19)

Recent financial downturns may force you to get tight with your money. The timing couldn’t be worse, as you foresee quite a few expenses to arise. But it’ll be in your best interest to be thrifty, no matter how many seasonal sales are going on.

Deal with issues as they arise today. This will keep them from exploding in your face at the most inopportune times. It could also have you dumping a guy who has become a real nuisance, and who is only a phone call away from becoming a bona fide stalker.

CANCER (JUN. 21 - JUL. 22)

AQUARIUS (JAN. 20 - FEB. 18)

Today’s a good one to grab the bull by the horns.

Being confident and assertive will help you get the things you want today, especially when it comes to men and work. You’ll be so poised guys and coworkers may actually be a little intimidated by you. That’ll be a good thing, as it will add to your mysterious allure.

You’ll have tons of romantic fun today as guys will be attracted to your dreamy, sensitive side. They’ll find everything you do to be fascinating and cool.

Until you start reciting your own poetry to them, and their discomfort will be palpable.

LEO (JUL. 23 - AUG. 22)

PISCES (FEB. 19 - MAR. 20)

You’ll see your sensitive side emerge today, and this may not sit too well with you as you make the social rounds. Devoid of your usual bite, there may be wolves who’ll see a chance to take advantage of the vulnerable lion. But one mighty roar could snap you back into shape, and you’ll find those wolves are actually lambs in disguise.

Why so serious? Your raging emotions could derail what should be a relaxing day. Keeping them under control could be tough, however, as you tend to wear them on your sleeve. Lighten up, or you could find yourself spending the evening alone…again.

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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’ve started dating a guy who I’ve had a crush on for the longest time. We started ‘virtual dating’ during the pandemic, and now we are actually at a point where we can consider each other as ‘bubble poddies,’ which also means that we have started having sex. He is gorgeous but also the first uncut guy I have been with, so here my issue: it seems like all my tried and tested tricks just don’t work for him. I’m actually scared that I may have caused him pain sometimes. I have done some research about how to handle him down there, but I’m not sure it works because he still doesn’t seem to like it. A little help, please.

Sincerely Uncut to the Boner Dear Uncut to the Boner When it comes to his foreskin, why not try communication instead? Simply ask him how he likes to be touched. As a rule, the head is more sensitive than on a cut guy, so grab him on the middle of the shaft instead of at the top where you can potentially pull the foreskin back too much and cause pain. Too much direct contact on the head can also be painful or sensitized, but that can vary with the degree of arousal. Otherwise, an uncut penis works the same way, so you can do oral, deepthroat, and even explore the foreskin with your tongue.

Have fun with it and ask a few questions along the way!

I have a ‘COVID sex buddy,’ and throughout these months, we have hooked up a couple of times. He is very hot and sexy, but the last few times, I have noticed that he wasn’t quite clean ‘back there.’ I don’t demand that guys douche their guts out, but I do prefer that they are somewhat clean, because poop anywhere near my penis is the biggest boner killer there is. How do I bring up the subject of cleanliness or ask him if he’s clean? I don’t want to shame or embarrass him, but this is kind of important to me. Again, I don’t demand that he is squeaky clean, just nice and fresh, I guess?

Sincerely Not That Douche Dear Not That Douche I once had a boyfriend that didn’t wear deodorant, so if he weren’t freshly showered, I would start our sex in the shower. Maybe that could work for you too? Without so much as telling him, you are showing him that when he is clean, you are so much more turned on by him. You can even go as far as to comment on how much you enjoyed that he was fresh and clean, and hopefully, that will sink in.

It certainly worked for me with that ex-boyfriend!

Once you are both more comfortable with each other, you can possibly bring up that you – generally speaking – like when guys are clean but that you don’t expect a full-on douching regimen. You are already very aware of the fact that something like this can be embarrassing for someone, so keep that level-headed sense of sensibility, and you’ll be just fine.

NEED ANSWERS? SEND YOUR BURNING QUESTIONS TO MIKKEL@PEACHATL.COM