FREE | MAY 20 - 27, 2021
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Philly-filmed ‘Made in Chinatown’ finally released after a tornado of troubles
‘MADE’ IN
MAYHEM Image | Courtesy of ‘Made in Chinatown’
Meet the Philly filmmaker who’s received critical acclaim for his recent short film, ‘The Flower People.’ | Page 14
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CRIME BEAT
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3
THE BEST ‘JACK’ IN TOWN
Two assistant U.S. attorneys take down South Philly drug gang
B
asil Bey – the leader of a major drug trafficking gang in South Philadelphia – was sentenced to 19 and a half years in prison, Acting U.S. Attorney Jennifer Arbittier Williams’ office announced recently. Bey was convicted in 2017, but legal appeals delayed his sentencing. Several of his criminal associates were also convicted and sentenced. I reached out to the two veteran assistant U.S. attorneys who prosecuted this case, Jason Bologna and Kevin Jayne, to find out some details. “I believe it was a significant prosecution. A total of 10 people were indicted for operating a drug business 24/7,” Bologna said. “Basically, the drug business was organized around a phone. People would call the phone and agree to a price and time to meet the drug dealer, and they would purchase either heroin, laced with fentanyl, crack cocaine, or some combination of those. The scope of running this operation day in and day out was staggering. It was, to be blunt, a blight upon the South Philadelphia community.” Jayne added: “I made the point at Mr. Bey’s sentencing that the number of contacts on the drug phone being used for this business were on the order of something close to 400,000.” The large volume of calls, Jayne noted, was indicative of the level of business the opera-
gangs. tion was doing in South Philadelphia. “Mr. Bey was the leader of the group. There Bologna said a good number of confidential sources were used by the FBI to make more were certain powerful quotes that were extracted from the cell’s wiretap. One of which than 35 drug buys, which were videotaped. had him saying, ‘I have the best ‘jack’ in the “The videos were compelling evidence. city,” Bologna said. There were literally times when “There was another call where the jury could see the defendants he was referring to the ‘graveyard counting out the money in the drivshift,’ which is the overnight shift er’s seat of the car that they had rethat various drug dealers had to ceived from the confidential source work. and handing over the package of “He was chastising one of his drugs,” Bologna recalled. co-conspirators for falling asleep “You could hear it with your during the shift. own ears and see it with your own “Mr. Bey was a person who was eyes.” proud of the drug business that he “This was an efficient and effechad created.” tive investigation between the FBI, Bologna added that there was the DEA and also the Philadelphia an instance in which a confidenPolice Department,” Jayne said. tial source was making a purchase “The controlled purchases from from Bey. members of the conspiracy inThey discussed his drug gang volved significant resources by law and Bey said his associates would enforcement.” PAULDAVISONCRIME.COM do what he told them to do. Jayne said one of the significant “That comment refers to Bey bepieces of evidence at trial was a ing in charge,” Bologna said. wiretap that was placed on two cell phones “It is the government’s contention that Mr. that provided direct evidence of the defendants contacting customers and customers Bey led this organization, and it was a business that operated 24/7. He was very successcontacting them to arrange for the sale of ful until the investigation got to a point where drugs. he was arrested, and the drug business was I asked the prosecutors who Bey is and dismantled.” how his drug group differed from other drug
PAUL DAVIS
Jayne said that Bey’s drug organization in South Philadelphia had all the markers one might find in a legitimate business, such as an established hierarchy. The organization had supervisors, employees and internal discipline. “They needed to employ ‘tradecraft’ techniques to thwart law enforcement if law enforcement happened to be investigating them, such as doing their hand-to-hand purchases inside the vehicle and switching up their corners,” Jayne said. “They also kept a ‘stash’ house, so they didn’t keep a large amount of drugs on them in case they encountered a rival drug dealer or law enforcement. And Mr. Bey, we allege, was very ruthless and very effective at running this organization. I think that is a little different than your run-of-the-mill loosely affiliated small-time drug dealers.” Jayne added that the lack of violence from the group was part of Bey’s business plan, as violence brings unwanted attention. “I’m really proud of what we did in this case because there are some very dangerous drugs being distributed in South Philadelphia, and through the hard work of law enforcement, we were able to make a difference.” Paul Davis’ Crime Beat column appears here each week. He can be contacted via pauldavisoncrime.com.
PHILADELPHIA WEEKLY | MAY 20 - 27, 2021
4
STATE OF OUR CITY
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STATE
With incumbent D.A. Larry Krasner’s win in Tuesday’s Democratic primary, it appears that it will be up to Republican Charles Peruto to pull a Ron Castille in the upcoming General Election if Philly streets are to get any safer. Castille, you’ll recall, was the last Republican to be elected district attorney, way back in the mid-1980s. If the crime stats keep going up – and who’s betting against that? – he has a shot, at least.
198
Image | Courtesy of Charles Peruto
Philly’s murder rate is on the climb, as noted elsewhere on this page, and the D.A.’s race is set up between incumbent Democrat Larry Krasner and Republican Charles Peruto. What do you think the city’s murder tally will be on Nov. 2, General Election day? Send your best guess to voices@philadelphiaweekly.com. We’ll keep track of all of the entries and send the winner (whoever comes closest to the right number) some sweet swag. Send your entries by the end of the month. Guessing tip: Look up whatever the murder count was last year on Nov. 2 and add 50 percent to it. Time to break out the calculator (or calculator app).
CITY
It’s up to Chuck
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Guess the murders, win a prize
OF OUR
The current number of homicide victims year-to-date under Mayor Jim Kenney and District Attorney Larry Krasner’s leadership. That’s a 40 percent increase over last year at this time.
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SIGHTS SET ON CHINATOWN A lawsuit, cast infighting, and this film is finally ready to watch
“M
ade in Chi- duced the film, which was co-dinatown” is rected by Bobby Samuels and a cross-cul- James Lew. Wiley got the idea for tural gang- the movie more than 20 years ago ster comedy while visiting the part of Manfilm about a hattan where the Chinatown and young Chi- Little Italy neighborhoods abut each other. Seeking admission nese-Amerito a private Kung Fu club, he was can man who tries to join La Cosa Nostra. It was shot mostly in Phila- turned away. Walking across the street, the idea came to delphia for 22 days back in him: What if a Chinese the summer of 2018. The film’s long road to screens BY STEPHEN guy crossed Canal Street SILVER and tried to join an Italian was much more tumultuclub, like the mob? ous: It took nearly three “Made in Chinatown” years and consisted of money woes, a lawsuit from the made quite a bit of local news in crew, disagreements with post-pro- September of 2018, when members duction houses, and ultimately, a of the film’s crew, led by director of photography Derrick Berry, global pandemic. But now, the film is finally avail- filed a class action lawsuit against able to watch, after its video-on-de- Wiley and his production company, claiming that they weren’t paid mand release on May 11. “Made in Chinatown” features some recog- for about 120 hours of work near nizable faces from both Asian cin- the end of the shoot. Wiley told Philadelphia Weekly ema and “The Sopranos,” and even in an interview that the dispute though it’s set in New York, you came about after the film did not, can see plenty of Philly in the film. as they had anticipated, qualify for Philadelphia-area native Mark V. Wiley wrote and executive-pro- the Pennsylvania Film Production SEE MOVIE, PAGE 6
‘Made in Chinatown,’ a gangster comedy flick, was shot mostly in Philadelphia back in 2018. Image | Courtesy of ‘Made in Chinatown’
PHILADELPHIA WEEKLY | MAY 20 - 27, 2021
6
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‘Made in Chinatown’ is now available on video on demand, after getting past years of production issues. Image | Courtesy of ‘Made in Chinatown’
MOVIE, FROM PAGE 5 Tax Credit. “We ran out of money right at the end, in the last week of filming, because the tax credit didn’t come through,” he said. “We had money in the account, but payroll doesn’t allow you to make partial payments… It took a couple of weeks to get in more money so we would have enough to cover payroll. “The crew was getting upset, and I kept telling them, ‘hold on we’re almost there,’” Wiley said. He added that the disputed money was ultimately paid right around the time the lawsuit was filed. “It got settled for $1,000,” he said of the suit, although it did cost Wiley and his company $8,000 in legal fees. “All of that bad press for me, and I’m out nine grand for him to get a thousand bucks.” The Philadelphia civil docket lists the suit as having been discontinued the following March; the plaintiff’s attorney in the suit did not reply to a request for comment. Wiley said that while he had been led to believe the movie was a shoo-in for the tax
MAY 20 - 27, 2021 | PHILADELPHIA WEEKLY
credit funds, most of the money allocated that year went to bigger-budget Hollywood films like “Creed II” and “Shazam.” The production kept filing during the multiple years of post-production, but never received the credit then, either. During that time, such projects as M. Night Shyalaman’s “Servant,” Jason Segel’s “Dispatches From Elsewhere” and the Kate Winslet HBO series, “Mare of Easttown” were shot locally. Sharon Pinkenson, the longtime executive director of the Greater Philadelphia Film Office, said that “Made in Chinatown” is an example of the need for an expanded Film Production Tax Credit in Pennsylvania. “The program is ridiculously underfunded and the shows that get the tax credits are the big budget films,” Pinkenson told PW. “There’s a push, again, to increase the programs [to] $125 million. But I think there should be a carve-out for indies. Maybe this will be the year.” The lawsuit wasn’t what caused the long delay. But it also wasn’t the last time the production would have financial trouble. Wiley said that during the long post-production period, he had to pull in money from his personal savings.
“We got ripped off with a post-production house in Los Angeles, who took all this money for post and then didn’t do their job,” Wiley added. A later post-production house, he said, “took out all the fun stuff that was in the movie, they said it was stupid.” Shake Audio Post, a post-production facility on N. 7th St., ended up doing the final audio mix. In the film, Vinny Chow (played by Hollywood newcomer Jay Kwon) is the son of Chinese immigrants, but he feels something of a disconnection with his heritage. He dreams of getting in with the Italian mob, mostly because he likes a girl (Theresa Moriarty) who is attracted to wiseguys. This gets him caught between rival mob bosses, portrayed by “The Sopranos” veterans Vincent Pastore (who played Big Pussy) and Tony Darrow (who was Larry Boy Barese.) Another “Sopranos” actor, Tony “Paulie Walnuts” Sirico, was originally slated to star in the film, but dropped out for health reasons. The same thing happened with “Rocky” co-star Burt Young, who also once guest-starred on “The Sopranos.” Some mob movies are about action, while others are about complex moral conflict. “Made in Chinatown” doubles down on silli-
ness. For one thing, there’s a lot less violence than in most mob pictures, and the mobsters don’t deal drugs or traffic in gambling or prostitution, but rather meats, cheeses, and spices. Sure, Don Corleone established the Genco Olive Oil Company, but that was a front for actual criminal rackets. (Wiley says this was in order to keep things light and get a PG-13 rating, while also paying homage to movie mobsters’ longtime obsession with food.) There’s a lot of humor based on characters having funny names like Amadore Condimento, Sean O’Greedy, Hung Phat, and Al Capella, and near-constant references in the dialogue to famous crime movies, with lots of “you talkin’ to me” and “fuggedaboutit.” The film shot 20 of its 22 days in Philadelphia, with Philly’s Chinatown standing in for New York’s. Some scenes were shot in South Philly, Fishtown, and Head House Square. The rest were in New York, mostly for exteriors, although there are some moments when Vinny Chow is shown walking down the street in New York’s Chinatown, turning the corner, and emerging in Philly’s Chinatown. Wiley said it was more cost-effective to shoot in Philadelphia than in New York. “Chinatown in New York City today has di-
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Officials say ‘Made in Chinatown’ is an example of the need for an expanded Film Production Tax Credit in Pennsylvania. Image | Courtesy of ‘Made in Chinatown
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minished in size and color so that they simply couldn’t make it there,” Pinkenson said. “But Philadelphia’s Chinatown is second only to San Francisco.” “Well, this has been a [long] journey getting this film completed and out for the world to see...I am extremely pleased with the final print,” Samuels told PW. Samuels is a veteran of Hong Kong cinema who also appears in the film as an actor.
“Timing is everything, and with the challenges that our country is going through on so many fronts...This film, I feel, will help with healing and getting people to understand and appreciate each other and our ethnicity.” The film, which played at some festivals, pre-pandemic, was picked up by Vision Films for release. It will be available for rental from all major cable on-demand platforms, as well as Amazon, Apple, Google Play, and Vudu.
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PHILADELPHIA WEEKLY | MAY 20 - 27, 2021
8
VOICES
OF OUR
CITY
End the filibuster The filibuster was created to undermine our voice as voters and slow progress on critical issues. It’s time to put an end to this Jim Crow relic and make sure our government is working for us. The filibuster is a loophole, historically used to block civil rights legislation. The original Senate rules did not include the filibuster rule. The modern-day filibuster took root during the Jim Crow era, when racist southern senators used it to delay passage of important civil rights legislation. Now, the filibuster means that 60 out of 100 U.S. senators have to vote on almost all legislation. The filibuster blocks deliberation and progress on important issues facing the American people. There are senators who
PHILADELPHIAWEEKLY.COM @PHILLYWEEKLY
THE SHOUT OUT
came to Washington to get things done for us – their constituents – and these rules prevent any possibility of change. Senators no longer hold the floor, talking-until-they-drop. It’s now a stealth tool of obstruction. Any senator can signal an objection, and suddenly the Senate has to clear a 60-vote threshold. Every issue you may care about will likely be held hostage by the filibuster. If we reform Senate rules we have a real chance at: voting rights and campaign finance reform; immigration reform; gun safety; raising the minimum wage. action on climate change; and police accountability and racial justice. Our senators must end the filibuster – and do the job that we, their constituents, sent them to Washington to do: legislate.
Julie Avrutine | Philadelphia
Keep the broadband
ball rolling in PA In Harrisburg, policymakers tend to get easily sidetracked to focus on issues demanding immediate attention. This often means the overshadowing of existing priorities. The Pennsylvania State Grange’s top legislative priority continues to be broadband because of its critical importance. Specifically, we urge: • Funding the new Broadband Authority in the state budget. • Taking the Governor’s Office of Broadband Initiatives, established several years ago, and giving it a lineitem in the state budget. It was never funded. • Doing an inventory of state-owned structures in rural areas to see which might be suitable for a technological “piggyback” to expand fixed broad-
•
•
•
•
band (Internet through a link to a stationary source). Seeing how much of the federal COVID stimulus money PA has already received and dedicate some of that for broadband. Standardizing installation requirements for small cell facilities that expand high-speed broadband in neighborhoods that do not have access now. Making it easier for smaller communities (municipal authorities) to become their own internet service providers if the telecommunication companies are too slow in reaching out to them. Reducing regulatory requirements for rural telephone companies that now restrict their expansion of broadband services.
Wayne Campbell | President, Pennsylvania State Grange
MAY 20 - 27, 2021 | PHILADELPHIA WEEKLY
Image | Kayla Speid
The CDC said fully vaccinated people can ditch the mask. Your turn: If you’re fully vaccinated, are you eager to go maskless, or would you prefer to hang on to the mask a bit longer? Send your thoughts to voices@philadelphiaweekly.com
PHILADELPHIAWEEKLY.COM @PHILLYWEEKLY
VOICES OF OUR CITY
ARE YOU READING THIS? GOOD. SO ARE YOUR CUSTOMERS. Are your customers under 40? Engaged in the city? Chances are they read PW, and we want to help you get more of them. Our marketing team will help you build a multi-channel campaign that delivers REAL RESULTS, and new customers in the door.
March 16, 2020. The day the stay-at-home order took effect in the Delaware Valley. That day will likely remain a vivid memory of just how drastically our lives can change in an instant. While many of us were able to transition to remote work, not everyone could. Nowhere has this been more apparent than in hospitals. More than one year into the COVID-19 pandemic, we must continue to recognize those who remain on the frontlines, fighting for the well-being of our community. This includes one of our nonprofit partners, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, which has been there to provide premier medical care to the youngest members of the community throughout this crisis. Although children have been found to be less susceptible to COVID-19 than adults, the CHOP team has still had to overcome many challenges during the pandemic. Keeping patients, their families, and employees safe and healthy has been a top priority. Additionally, CHOP’s Policy Lab has been doing critical research, including tracking the pandemic and modeling its future path to guide our leaders’ response. Unfortunately, COVID-19 hasn’t prevented other illnesses. CHOP has continued treating children with chronic conditions that require round-the-clock care, such as those battling cardiac conditions. The Cardiac Center at CHOP is ranked one of the best in the country. CHOP’s cardiology unit cares for children of all ages, from babies
to teens with congenital and acquired heart conditions. CHOP has about 125 experts in cardiac care to help with a patient’s care. Children are undoubtedly in excellent hands. At NRG, we are proud to support CHOP and more specifically, the Cardiac Center. Four years ago, CHOP became one of the first nonprofits to partner with us for the Choose to Give program. Through Choose to Give, NRG offers electricity plans that benefit local nonprofits. With the Choose to Give CHOP plan, we contribute $50 to the hospital for every customer that enrolls in the program and contribute 1 percent of each customer’s electricity supply charges annually. It’s a unique opportunity to give back to the community with the simple flip of a switch. Thanks to our customers, we are thrilled to report we have contributed more than $1 million to CHOP’s Cardiac Center, which will help advance breakthrough research and provide exceptional care to improve the lifelong health and well-being of children with congenital heart disease. While we can’t celebrate this milestone in person just yet, there is a light at the end of the tunnel. Thanks to the hard work of so many essential workers, educating the public about the importance of being immunized and more people are getting vaccinated. Let’s all show our support for these tireless fighters and give them a heartfelt thank you.
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GOSSIP
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ICEPACK
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MAY 20 - 27, 2021 | PHILADELPHIA WEEKLY
FEST FUN I
MIA, Firefly plan their return
f you’re thinking that the last seven is closing. For now. Shame that. They should days of Philly have been more raw have just stayed cool like DJ Bobby Startup than sashimi, exposed nerve endings and the late great David Carroll built up Bar and Eddie Murphy combined, then Noir to be. And if Franklin is going to come you are so not alone. From quickly back, don’t ask your bouncers to wear funny losing a ghoulish health commissionTrilby hats and vests. er now notorious for tossing human Housewife spotted remains in to a dustbin (to think, for a minute I’ll tell you what’s weird: the very same there I spent my mornings press Zooming that night that I dined with friends at Estia Downguy), to a hardcore DA’s race for this city’s town, across from the Academy of Music (the streets and its collective soul, to the rush of Arni Youvetsi was fall-off-the-bone fabulous), block rocking protests facing everyBravo Network Real Housewife of thing from the Israel/Gaza conflict to New Jersey Teresa Guidice and her MOVE’s Poweltown Village disaster, beau Luis Ruelas ate at Estia Taverna BY A.D. last week – THIS MONTH – feels like in Radnor. Save for our shared ethnic AMOROSI it has been one, long cluster-fucking make-up and good hair, that is the Faustian bargain of wrong with no only similarity that I have with Guidone coming out a winner. And usually May ice. That, and maybe a few table-tossing tanis so darn pretty and nice. Ack. Anyway, let’s trums. see if we can get some stupid and silly in here, A Giant supermarket fast. Just because you call it “Heirloom” doesn’t Music fests return mean that it holds some elegant allure or that Philly’s Hova-curated Made in America fesI want a Giant supermarket left of center in tival, the one beloved by hip hop millennials Center City at the legendary old Strawbridge’s and…not so much by the old heads living in building on Market Street. Then again, the the Art Museum area? Word has it that after Fashion District….. ugh. Either way, all this missing the pandemic’s 2020, the annual MIA enthusiasm for a grocery store is jarring. will happen, in person, and live. City officials The Main Point are currently jiggling things around with JigThere is an interesting memorialization ga. Stay tuned. Also, Dover, Delaware’s Firefly gearing up for The Main Point, the legendFest that I said would happen for September ary, intimate Bryn Mawr live venue/coffee in my PW cover, The Comeback, just got its house, first opened in 1964, where, as a wee headliners with Billie Eilish, Lizzo, The Killone, I recall seeing Tom Waits, Joni Mitchell, ers and Tame Impala. Stay tuned for more Charles Mingus and Bruce Springsteen, to acts to follow the ‘Fly. say nothing of being a local time home to the Another closing likes of George Carlin, Bonnie Raitt, MudI never like seeing anything close. Even dy Waters, Billy Joel, Philly’s own Jim Croce places I hate. You need a hate to hold onto. and and many more. The 40-40-40: Forever ReThat said, the Franklin Mortgage & Investmembered program is in tribute to The Main ment Company on 18th Street – the one-time Point’s 40th anniversary of being closed in Bar Noir location that pretended this was New 1981. Sounds like a plan. For info and to doYork, and went for a dumb speakeasy vibe – nate, visit kellycenter.org
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More than cheese now Masked Philly: Kelsey Fabian Tria. It ain’t just cheese anymore. Their In Icepack’s continuing saga of asking Rittenhouse outlet, Bar Poulet (literally the mask-donning local celebrities what they’ve been up to, beyond the pale, during C-19 – from only word I can remember from six years of French lessons), is doing chicken right, fried, lockdown to the current, slow reopening – I reached out this week to Kelsey Fabian from and with champagne. Not bad. PHL 17 Morning News. Hustling to Camden The Pennsylvania native newsperson C’mon, man. Philly has been waiting (especially the Italian Market where he filmed picked up one truly digable hobby during the a love stroll with Queen Latifah) for the re- Great Quarantine of 2020-2021. “During the pandemic I picked up puzturn of The Sandman, Adam Sandler and the zling,” she said enthusiastically. “I did puzrest of the production of his Netflix film with co-producer LeBron James, “Hustle.” They zles with my grandma when I was a little girl, but I hadn’t done one in years until the filmed throughout Philly until around C-19 lockdown. I actually forgot how much I loved Halloween 2020, and promised to come back them! I found one sitting in our closet during for pick-up scenes. So far, however, the only the first week of quar“Hustle” scenes comantine, after that I was ing up for Sandler, the hooked. I even joined Queen, Robert Duvall a Puzzle Exchange and the rest of the Group in Philly. And cast will be in Camden when it comes to throughout August work, I learned how to and September, per navigate all of my protheir current schedule. duction skills workPhilly heat for ing from home which ‘Easttown’ is something I never Not for nothing, by thought I would do in the way – and withTV news.” out giving away a The Morning News major rough plotline woman isn’t so much for those who need to into artisanal craftcatch up – HBO’s loed masks like many cally-lensed “Mare of of my Masked Philly Easttown” got some interviewees. What major Philly heat in she is into, howevits Sunday, May 16 eper, is snow. “It’s out isode by relying upon of season now, but I theatahhh actor and really love my snowNew Paradise Laboraman face mask. My tories co-founder Jeb mom bought it for me Kreager in a nasty in the winter of 2020. pivotal role. Kreager I think it makes peohas been down the ple smile and laugh. television series supI loved wearing it on port role road in shows TV whenever I was such as “Mindhunter” covering fun feature and “The Punisher,” Image | Courtesy of Kelsey Fabian stories during the winbut this one is balls to ter months. It’s just the wall harsh. Plus, Jeb didn’t have to learn to say “warhter” or so cute. The whole face mask thing in general hang a Wawa to get to the method, maaaan. doesn’t really bother me. I will admit I don’t love exercising in them, but I love not having Also, dig a little deeper into Easttown and you will find several local theater magnates in the to wear a full face of makeup for television. I Mare cast, such as Kittson O’Neill, the artis- often only do my eye makeup for work since tic director of Shakespeare in Clark Park (as the rest of my face is covered. It buys me a few extra minutes of sleep.” Officer Holbert) and Suli Holum, a Pig Iron Along with getting ready for long, deep Theatre Co. co-founder and member of the breaths, “when masks are gone forever, I Wilma’s Hothouse company. guess I will have to put on my full face of Bad blood? makeup again.” Kelsey also is prepping for a DJ Akademiks, a crucial part of last week’s whole Joe Budden podcast deba- huge 2021, personally. “This is a big year for me – I am getting cle where host Budden unceremoniously married in October so I am really looking fordumped his co-hosts for wanting equity and some say-so, also is claiming that there is ward to that! Also looking forward to the honbad blood between MMG label boss and old eymoon, I can’t wait to travel again! My fiancé Meek Mill pal Rick Ross and Millie from and I have never flown together, so wish us luck.” Philly with some major beef regarding the latter’s MMG contract with the former. Dag.
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PHILADELPHIA WEEKLY | MAY 20 - 27, 2021
Important Facts About DOVATO
This is only a brief summary of important information about DOVATO and does not replace talking to your healthcare provider about your condition and treatment. What is the most important information I should know about DOVATO? If you have both human immunodeficiency virus-1 (HIV-1) and hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection, DOVATO can cause serious side effects, including: • Resistant HBV infection. Your healthcare provider will test you for HBV infection before you start treatment with DOVATO. If you have HIV-1 and hepatitis B, the hepatitis B virus can change (mutate) during your treatment with DOVATO and become harder to treat (resistant). It is not known if DOVATO is safe and effective in people who have HIV-1 and HBV infection. • Worsening of HBV infection. If you have HIV-1 and HBV infection, your HBV may get worse (flare-up) if you stop taking DOVATO. A “flare-up” is when your HBV infection suddenly returns in a worse way than before. Worsening liver disease can be serious and may lead to death. ° Do not run out of DOVATO. Refill your prescription or talk to your healthcare provider before your DOVATO is all gone. ° Do not stop DOVATO without first talking to your healthcare provider. If you stop taking DOVATO, your healthcare provider will need to check your health often and do blood tests regularly for several months to check your liver. What is DOVATO? DOVATO is a prescription medicine that is used without other HIV-1 medicines to treat human immunodeficiency virus-1 (HIV-1) infection in adults: who have not received HIV-1 medicines in the past, or to replace their current HIV-1 medicines when their healthcare provider determines that they meet certain requirements. HIV-1 is the virus that causes Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS). It is not known if DOVATO is safe and effective in children. Who should not take DOVATO? Do not take DOVATO if you: • have ever had an allergic reaction to a medicine that contains dolutegravir or lamivudine. • take dofetilide. What should I tell my healthcare provider before using DOVATO? Tell your healthcare provider about all of your medical conditions, including if you: • have or have had liver problems, including hepatitis B or C infection. • have kidney problems. • are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. One of the medicines in DOVATO (dolutegravir) may harm your unborn baby. ° Your healthcare provider may prescribe a different medicine than DOVATO if you are planning to become pregnant or if pregnancy is confirmed during the first 12 weeks of pregnancy. ° If you can become pregnant, your healthcare provider will perform a pregnancy test before you start treatment with DOVATO. ° If you can become pregnant, you should consistently use effective birth control (contraception) during treatment with DOVATO. ° Tell your healthcare provider right away if you are planning to become pregnant, you become pregnant, or think you may be pregnant during treatment with DOVATO. • are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed. Do not breastfeed if you take DOVATO. ° You should not breastfeed if you have HIV-1 because of the risk of passing HIV-1 to your baby. ° One of the medicines in DOVATO (lamivudine) passes into your breastmilk. ° Talk with your healthcare provider about the best way to feed your baby.
©2020 ViiV Healthcare or licensor. DLLADVT200007 August 2020 Produced in USA.
Tell your healthcare provider about all the medicines you take, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements. Some medicines interact with DOVATO. Keep a list of your medicines and show it to your healthcare provider and pharmacist when you get a new medicine. • You can ask your healthcare provider or pharmacist for a list of medicines that interact with DOVATO. • Do not start taking a new medicine without telling your healthcare provider. Your healthcare provider can tell you if it is safe to take DOVATO with other medicines. What are possible side effects of DOVATO? DOVATO can cause serious side effects, including: • Those in the “What is the most important information I should know about DOVATO?” section. • Allergic reactions. Call your healthcare provider right away if you develop a rash with DOVATO. Stop taking DOVATO and get medical help right away if you develop a rash with any of the following signs or symptoms: fever; generally ill feeling; tiredness; muscle or joint aches; blisters or sores in mouth; blisters or peeling of the skin; redness or swelling of the eyes; swelling of the mouth, face, lips, or tongue; problems breathing. • Liver problems. People with a history of hepatitis B or C virus may have an increased risk of developing new or worsening changes in certain liver tests during treatment with DOVATO. Liver problems, including liver failure, have also happened in people without a history of liver disease or other risk factors. Your healthcare provider may do blood tests to check your liver. Tell your healthcare provider right away if you get any of the following signs or symptoms of liver problems: your skin or the white part of your eyes turns yellow (jaundice); dark or “tea-colored” urine; light-colored stools (bowel movements); nausea or vomiting; loss of appetite; and/or pain, aching, or tenderness on the right side of your stomach area. • Too much lactic acid in your blood (lactic acidosis). Lactic acidosis is a serious medical emergency that can lead to death. Tell your healthcare provider right away if you get any of the following symptoms that could be signs of lactic acidosis: feel very weak or tired; unusual (not normal) muscle pain; trouble breathing; stomach pain with nausea and vomiting; feel cold, especially in your arms and legs; feel dizzy or lightheaded; and/or a fast or irregular heartbeat. • Lactic acidosis can also lead to severe liver problems, which can lead to death. Your liver may become large (hepatomegaly) and you may develop fat in your liver (steatosis). Tell your healthcare provider right away if you get any of the signs or symptoms of liver problems which are listed above under “Liver problems.” You may be more likely to get lactic acidosis or severe liver problems if you are female or very overweight (obese). • Changes in your immune system (Immune Reconstitution Syndrome) can happen when you start taking HIV-1 medicines. Your immune system may get stronger and begin to fight infections that have been hidden in your body for a long time. Tell your healthcare provider right away if you start having new symptoms after you start taking DOVATO.
SO MUCH GOES INTO WHO I AM HIV MEDICINE IS ONE PART OF IT. Why could DOVATO be right for you? DOVATO is proven to help control HIV with just 2 medicines in 1 pill. That means fewer medicines* in your body while taking DOVATO. It’s proven as effective as an HIV treatment with 3 or 4 medicines. Learn more about fewer medicines at DOVATO.com DOVATO is a complete prescription regimen to treat HIV-1 in adults who have not received HIV-1 medicines in the past or to replace their current HIV-1 medicines when their doctor determines they meet certain requirements. Results may vary. *As compared with 3- or 4-drug regimens.
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What are possible side effects of DOVATO? (cont’d) • The most common side effects of DOVATO include: headache; nausea; diarrhea; trouble sleeping; tiredness; and anxiety. These are not all the possible side effects of DOVATO. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit www.fda.gov/medwatch, or call 1-800-FDA-1088. Where can I find more information? • Talk to your healthcare provider or pharmacist. • Go to DOVATO.com or call 1-877-844-8872, where you can also get FDA-approved labeling. August 2020 DVT:4PIL Trademark is owned by or licensed to the ViiV Healthcare group of companies.
New to treatment? Considering a switch?
Ask your doctor about DOVATO.
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FILM
Philly’s Charles A. Christman III has received critical acclaim for his recent short film, ‘The Flower People.’
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A PARENT’S
BIGGEST FEAR “P
‘The Flower People’ draws from a child’s abduction
hilly filmmaker duction team included Roberto Lombardi, Charles A. Christ- Zay Rodriguez, Wendell Raulston Jr., and man III has added Scott Perloff. Local actors Hannah Kathto the city’s movie ryn Young, Yasiris Alvarado and Xavier legacy. His most re- Thorton played the leading roles. PW recent short film “The cently caught up with Christman to talk about his career and latest film. Flower Let’s go back to the beginPeople,” has captured 37 awards ning. When did you first beand more than 90 film festival BY: EUGENE come interested in making selections, and is garnering ZENYATTA films? worldwide attention throughout My interest in filmmaking bethe industry. Filmed in Northgan in college. My English teacher at the east Philadelphia, and featuring a local cast and crew, “The Flower People” tells Community College of Philadelphia, Dr. the story of a mother and son who have a Jerry McDade, assigned a project where I had to write a 25-page paper on a topic chance encounter with a mysterious woman selling flowers. The son disappears the of my choice. I originally wanted to write about vampire lore, but another student next day and becomes the victim of a cult had already picked that topic. In talking kidnapping. The Philadelphia-based pro-
MAY 20 - 27, 2021 | PHILADELPHIA WEEKLY
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PHILADELPHIAWEEKLY.COM @PHILLYWEEKLY with Dr. McDade, he asked if I liked movies, and the answer, of course, was “I love movies.” And just like that, I had my topic – vampires in cinema. I received an A-plus on the paper, and Dr. McDade asked if I would be interested in taking his film classes. I signed up for all three classes and enjoyed them so much that I went on to pursue film studies at Temple University. Talk a little about “The Flower People.” How did it come together and how can people see it? “The Flower People” draws from what could be considered a parent’s biggest fear – the abduction of their child. It’s truly a horrific nightmare and a parent can’t find solace until they know what happened to their child. The film relies heavily on psychological aspects. I drew a lot of inspiration from the RKO Pictures of Val Lewton from the 1940s, especially “Cat People,” “The Seventh Victim” and “Curse of the Cat People.” Lewton’s philosophy was that in darkness, the audience will create their biggest fear in their own mind. The scariest thing is what you don’t see – the mind creates the monster. Another influence was Steven Spielberg’s “Schindler’s List.” Not technically a thriller or horror film, but the real-life events that happened during the holocaust are true evil at its purest. I shot “The Flower People” in black and white, but wanted to add some color to the film. The scene in “Schindler’s List” with the girl in a red jacket gave me the inspiration to have all of the roses and the cult’s flower pins in red. This added another layer of beautiful dread that leaves the audience questioning themselves about the “flower people.” The story for “The Flower People,” in one form or another, has been with me since high school. I took a class where we studied cults and the teacher doubled down on my fears when he told me that the people selling flowers on street corners were actually cult members. So, like any other artist, the only way I could extract my fear was to write a story about it. I wrote the short story back in 2015, but did not begin production until 2019. Postproduction was completed about a year later. The film premiered at the Venice Island Performing Arts Center right before the nationwide shutdown due to COVID-19. “The Flower People” is still on the festival circuit so it’s currently unavailable for public viewing right now due to festival rules and restrictions. But after its festival run, I plan on showing it on a streaming platform like Amazon Prime. Why do you think the film was so successful? In addition to the amazing cast and crew, I credit the film’s success to the fact that it was released during a unique moment in history. Living through a global pandemic, no one had any idea what was going to happen at first. People were afraid and very isolated, and being alone is scary for people. They needed to channel their fears into something they know
FILM is not real, and movies are a perfect outlet. I also feel that the events of last year, whether it was the protests and riots or the presidential election, led to a horrible mentality of “us vs. them,” which is horror storytelling 101. People see the enemy and it’s the people who don’t look like them or do the things they do. The evil is the other tribe, and “The Flower People” gives you that. What was the Philadelphia film scene like before the pandemic, and how do you think it will recover now that it appears the pandemic is easing, as are its restrictions? The Philadelphia indie film scene before the pandemic was very much alive and flourishing. A lot of filmmakers in this area were making wonderful and unique films. I was proud to call myself a Philadelphia independent filmmaker. But once the pandemic hit, everything came to a halt. People weren’t making films anymore unless they were in the confines of their own house. But just like any Philadelphian, you can’t stop us from doing what we love. We are resilient and just built in a different way. I know plenty of independent filmmakers who are making movies now and have been following all of the guidelines set by the CDC. I am honored to call them colleagues. In the end, this is just another huge hurdle that we have to get back up from, but I know you’re going to see some amazing stories and films in the years to come. What advice do you have for aspiring filmmakers? Just be yourself. If you find something you love, follow your heart and do whatever it takes. I’m from the Holmesburg section of Philadelphia, where the arts weren’t pushed on to me. I always felt that movies or TV was something I’d be good at, but thought it was an impossible dream. Most kids went to college, learned a trade, went to work for the city or became another cautionary tale. Don’t let others dictate what you want to do. Find it and go for it. Yes, you’re going to fail, but failure is a part of the process. Don’t get discouraged or bogged down by it. When you fail, see it as an opportunity for growth and take steps forward to your goals. I think my father said it best, “If it was easy, everyone would do it.” What’s ahead for you? Are you working on any new films? I am just finishing up the last draft of a script for a new project. It’s another short horror film, called “Rathill.” This one is going to be a little less serious than “The Flower People,” paying homage to the slasher films of the 1980s. It will still have aspects of horror and thriller films from the ‘30s and ‘40s, but with a fun and bloody twist. Think of 1932’s “White Zombie” meets 1987’s “The Monster Squad.” We are just looking for investors to help with the financial aspect to begin production. But I can say with confidence that this film is going to be a blast to make and watch. Get your popcorn ready!
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PHILADELPHIA WEEKLY | MAY 20 - 27, 2021
16
THE RUNDOWN
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THE RUNDOWN Image | Nathan Ansell
10th annual Philadelphia Latino Film Festival
#Whitina
This short narrative film is by J. Sean Smith, the first Latina to be awarded the George Lucas Family Foundation Scholarship at the University of Southern California School of Cinematic Arts MFA program. The film, inspired by coming of age cult classics, is about exploring the crossroads of the inner and outer struggles of being Mexican-American against the backdrop of a social media-obsessed society. High school cheerleader and whitina (white acting Latina) Genesis Valdez is forced to go on the run with her two former best friends after a confrontation with undercover I.C.E. agents. Not realizing the whole thing was filmed by two middle schoolers, the group goes #viral. While on the run, Chris reveals he is a dreamer and could get deported. Genesis makes a decision to help Chris escape learning what it really means to be “down for La Raza.”
The 10th annual Philadelphia Latino Film Festival, taking place May 30 to June 6, will feature eight days of virtual filmmaker offerings, free screenings and more. For all the details, visit phlaff.org/2021films, but, for now, here are some of our favorites.
When You Clean a Stranger’s Home
This short video essay by Sharon Arteaga is a film about a first-generation high school student describing what her and her mom learn about people when cleaning their homes for a living. House décor and items left around convey a privilege that unveils her imagination, jealousy and frustrations. This will be the film’s east coast premiere. The film also won the audience award at the 2020 Cine Las Americas International Film Festival.
La Nave del Olvido
Joyride
NEGRA
Superestar
By Nicole Ruiz Benavides from Chile, this film follows the life of Claudina, a repressed elderly woman who is a widow from the countryside. She meets Elsa, a married woman, who invites Claudina to discover real love. Claudina embarks on a tough journey to find freedom and eventually learns that it is individual and inalienable.This is the film’s Philadelphia premiere. The film also won two awards at the Huelva Film Festival in Spain. Also premiering at the festival is this feature-length documentary film from Mexico by Medhin Tewolde Serrano that shows the director in her search of exploring what it means to inhabit Mexico as a Black woman. It tells the story of five afro-descendant women from southern Mexico, exposing racism, resistance and the processes of self-acceptance, strategies for transcending stereotypes, and the celebration of their identity.
MAY 20 - 27, 2021 | PHILADELPHIA WEEKLY
This short, narrative film by Edwin Alexis Gómez tells the story of sisters Marina and Karina, who break their grandmother, Juana, out of her senior living facility. Juana enlists them to take her to the Grand Canyon in secret. The car ride reveals some painful family history and allows Juana to carry out some unfinished business. This will be the film’s east coast premiere. The film also won the Most Popular Award at the 2020 PBS Short Film Festival. This short narrative film by Daniel Larios is about two Salvadoran women, one a first-generation indiepop singer, and the other an immigrant bathroom attendant at an LA nightclub, as they bond over their different troubles and their mutual love of music. This will be the film’s east coast premiere.
THE RUNDOWN
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English Orpheus
Tempesta di Mare – Philadelphia Baroque Orchestra presents Jacob Perry, the tenor who won everyone’s heart at the 2018 Messiah, as he takes center stage in an intimate five-act cabaret on love’s eternal themes – courtship, requital, betrayal, breakup and solace – as told through English songs by Dowland, Purcell, Blow, and Handel, and poetry by Shakespeare, Dryden, Wortley, and Congreve. June 19 at 7pm. tempestadimare.org
From the reopening of a museum to live music once again, Philly is waking up this spring to all kinds of fun things to do. Here are some of our favorites.
Music, art and more on tap Mario Lanza Museum
After two years of renovation, the Mario Lanza Museum is now open at its new location at 1214 Reed Street in South Philadelphia. The Lanza Museum, now at its fifth location, houses a collection of memorabilia and artifacts from the life and career of the legendary south Philly born tenor. In addition to offering guided tours of the museum, there will be educational programs such as lectures, vocal master classes, concerts, and the screening of Lanza’s films and television appearances. For all of the details, including hours, tickets and more, visit mariolanzainstitute.org.
Slaphappy: A COVID-era Commedia
Villanova Theatre will be presenting this devised show from May 20-30. Imagine a universe where cutthroat collegiate teams vie for glory in the high-stakes world of...Commedia dell’Arte? Outsized characters, physical shtick, running gags, improvisation, and – perfect for the COVID Era — masks! Visit villanovatheatre. org/slaphappy for more information.
Jefferson Berry & the UAC
Jefferson Berry & the UAC combine storytelling in the Urban Folk tradition with the intricacies of JamBand and Roots instrumentation. Now you can see them live, yes live, Saturday, May 22, 8-10pm at Jamey’s House of Music, 32 S. Lansdowne Ave., Lansdowne. Visit jameyshouseofmusic.com for all the details.
Dan + Shay
Second Saturdays
The Chestnut Hill Business District has launched a new monthly series, Second Saturdays, highlighting Chestnut Hill’s vibrant arts scene. Each month, the event will allow the arts to come alive on splendid, tree-lined streets along the 7600 to 8600 blocks of Germantown Avenue. Second Saturdays will be held from 2 to 6 p.m. on June 12, July 10, Aug. 14, Sept. 11, Oct. 9, and Nov. 13; rain dates will fall on the following Saturday. Includes live music, retail and restaurant specials, and family-friendly activities. chestnuthillpa.com
Three-time consecutive Grammy Award-winning duo Dan + Shay are gearing up to get back on the road with their headline Dan + Shay The (Arena) Tour. The tour was rescheduled due to COVID-19; all previously purchased tickets will be honored for new, rescheduled dates as outlined below. Their Philly stop is on Sept. 14 at the Wells Fargo Center. Visit danandshay.com for all the details.
PHILADELPHIA WEEKLY | MAY 20 - 27, 2021
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THE RUNDOWN
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Interactive dance
Nichole Canuso Dance Company will premiere The Garden: Invisible Branches, an interactive dance commissioned by the Philadelphia Museum of Art, for four weeks, May 21 – June 19, at the Philadelphia Museum of Art in conjunction with the inaugural exhibition, New Grit: Art & Philly Now. The concise and socially distanced performances will run four times a day, three days a week starting May 21. Reservations are required. To purchase admission and reserve a performance date/time, visit philamuseum.org.
All kinds of things are popping up on our radar in the coming days and weeks. From movies to trivia and more, here are some of the upcoming events we’re most excited about.
Looking for something to do? Latino Nature Trivia Night New Eagles book Movie Nights Under the Stars & Stripes
Movie Nights Under the Stars & Stripes are back at the Betsy Ross House on First Fridays, June through October. Suspended during COVID, these movie nights have been a crowd favorite at the House for the last few years. The $7 admission includes an after-hours tour of the house, and a movie in the courtyard at dusk. The series kicks off Friday, June 4, with the B-movie classic, “Attack of the Crab Monsters.” Visit historicphiladelphia.org for additional shows and all the details.
MAY 20 - 27, 2021 | PHILADELPHIA WEEKLY
Presented by the Schuylkill Center for Environmental Education, put your nature knowledge to the test at the upcoming bilingual virtual trivia night. It’s a cornucopia of questions covering all things nature – from plants and birds to reptiles and insects, and more. Questions will be read in English and in Spanish. May 27 at 7pm. schuylkillcenter.org
Paddle Penn’s Landing
Starting May 28, Paddle Penn’s Landing will reopen for the 2021 season. Visitors can paddle their way around the Penn’s Landing basin in a kayak, rowboat, swan or dragon for the perfect outdoor recreational activity. New to the fleet this season, guests can now rent a flamingo or yellow duck (both four-seaters) for a unique afternoon adventure with family and friends. Summer hours are Monday through Friday, 3pm to dusk, and Saturday and Sunday noon to dusk through Labor Day. 211 S. Columbus Blvd. Visitors are encouraged to purchase tickets in advance at phillyseaport.org/onwater.
The legendary Ray Didinger opens his lively memoir “Finished Business: My Fifty Years of Headlines, Heroes, and Heartaches” with the Philadelphia Eagles’ upset win in Super Bowl LII. When the Eagles finally hoist the Lombardi Trophy, Didinger does his best to straddle the emotions of a working reporter and a longsuffering Philly fan. Didinger will discuss his memoir at the Free Library of Philadelphia in a virtual event on May 26 at 7:30pm. libwww. freelibrary.org
Cabaret of the Exiled
Theatre Exile’s upcoming virtual fundraiser, Cabaret of the Exiled – Spring Edition, will take place on Monday, May 24 at 7pm. Emceed by and featuring the charismatic Johnny Showcase, the Cabaret will feature performances by talented actors, musicians, and special guests, as well as an online raffle featuring exciting Philadelphia themed prizes. The event is Theatre Exile’s most significant annual fundraiser that supports free outreach programs, mainstage productions, and new play development efforts. Visit theatreexile.org for details.
THE RUNDOWN
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FringeArts presents the annual two-week festival of contemporary circus arts June 3-13. Featuring performances in the theater, La Peg, and outdoors, Hand to Hand brings remarkable levels of artistry and ability together for a thrilling lineup of events – a circus festival perfect for the whole family. Performances and workshops include acrobatics, aerials, clowning, juggling, and everything in between. For all of the details, including tickets, locations and more, visit fringearts.com. Here’s what’s coming up.
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Circus Midway
Learn the art of the circus at this day of free outdoor, socially-distanced workshops! Teachers and performers from the Philadelphia School of Circus Arts will give attendees of all ages a chance to learn basic aerial acrobatics, juggling, plate spinning and tight wire, with additional offerings for younger children including scarf-tossing and balance challenges. Circus Midway will also feature short circus performances throughout the day. Free and fun for all ages and abilities! Please note: Entry will be timed, so be sure to RSVP. June 12.
Hand to Hand: A FringeArts Circus Festival Test Flights
In this special circus edition of scratch night, jugglers, acrobats and aerial artists impress with physical feats and incredible skills as they push the boundaries of what circus is and what it can say. Expect tenderness and virtuosity, the absurd and the extraordinary, as emerging and established artists and companies share works-in-progress in a rapidlyevolving art form. Curated and hosted by Zak McAllister, the evening will feature six short performances, offering an inside look at the future of contemporary circus. June 3.
Monday Is Years Long
Exploring isolation by embodying digital reality, Monday Is Years Long examines the contradictions and overlaps between virtual closeness, spatial distance and the proximity of live performance. Warm, reflective, radically honest, and intensely playful, this full-length world premiere tells the story of individuals with limitless access to connection through technology, who suddenly find themselves stuck in a world where their desire for human contact may lead to disaster and death. Through moments both public and private, comic and intimate, glimpse the lives of these individuals as they try to coexist in small, isolated spaces. June 5.
Eventide
Eventide follows the story of a young couple in a rough patch fueled by thoughtless patterns and personal misgivings. One late night, in a twilight daze, they find the freedom to relive pivotal moments, face hard truths, and pursue reconciliation, healing, and personal growth. Eventide is a multidisciplinary piece produced and performed by modern circus performers and dancers, Kyle Driggs, Andrea Murillo, and Luna Deasy, and co-directed by Mark Lonergan that uses expressive movement, object manipulation, and contemporary, surreal scene-setting to expose the challenges we face in romantic relationships and relationships with ourselves. June 11-13.
Heliopause
In astronomy, the heliopause is the point beyond termination shock that marks the edge of the heliosphere, the end of our sun’s reach, and the moment where the pressure of the solar winds and the pressure of the interstellar medium come into balance. Heliopause is a show about where we end and the other(s) begin(s). June 4-6.
PHILADELPHIA WEEKLY | MAY 20 - 27, 2021
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MAY 20 - 27, 2021 | PHILADELPHIA WEEKLY
SEX WITH TIMAREE
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HOW TO TRY OUT NEW TRICKS IN BED
good – as long as everyone is happy. If someQ: So I always hear people talk about exploring new things sexually, and over the one would like to expand their repertoire but pandemic there kept being articles doesn’t have a latent kink, they can about “now is a good time for you always turn to adult content for inand your partner to try out new spiration. Porn exists for this very stuff.” But literally: how does that purpose: as entertainment, a hywork? Maybe I’m just not very creperbolic imagining of sex, where ative, but I don’t know where to practical considerations like having start. What new stuff do I try? It incredibly long fingernails or being would be easier if my boyfriend had step-siblings don’t get in the way of ideas and took the lead and I just a good time. went along, but he’s pretty much Perhaps porn isn’t your thing. satisfied with the regular stuff. The Maybe you just want a menu of opwhole thing makes me feel super tions. A fun online tool for partners anxious. to use is Mojo Upgrade, where you I absolutely love this question. both (separately) register your level Every time I see pithy advice like of interest in an activity – like strip“don’t be afraid to spice things up,” ping, sensual massage, or role play I always think: “OK, cool. Now this – and it reports back the areas of @TIMAREE_LEIGH is where a overlap. And helpful arplenty of ticle would magazines – break this even Oprah! into steps.” – have bucket So, let’s do lists of cute that. things to try. Step Step 2: 1: What How Do I ‘Stuff’ Do I Bring This Try? Up? For In a situsome folks, ation that is there are low pressure fantasies and private, perched in discuss what their brain, kind of exstacked perience you atop each other in a libidinous heap, eagerdesire. Be specific, rather than just saying the ly waiting for a green light. For other folks, activity and assuming you both understand the classic Insert-Tab-A-Into-Slot-B has been it to be the same thing. Take, for instance, more than satisfactory and anything fancier spanking. You may envision some light taps would just make things complicated. Both are with an open palm while a partner may think
TIMAREE SCHMIT
“It’s important that trust and communication are established and maintained. If you don’t trust your partner to listen to your boundaries or respect your consent, then you probably shouldn’t experiment with them.”
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you want welts across your ass from a wooden paddle with spikes. Describe the sensation you’re looking for, the things you want/ don’t want to have happen. Sexual experimentation can be daunting because of fears of rejection, awkwardness, or even physical pain. Some folks also resist trying out things that their partners request because they are afraid that if they consent to an act once, they won’t be able to go back. If you’ve never had anal sex, it’s easier to keep not having it, for example. This is why it’s important that trust and communication are established y. If some- and maintained. If rtoire but you don’t trust your , they can partner to listen to ent for in- your boundaries or this very respect your consent, nt, a hy- then you probably experiex, where shouldn’t ke having ment with them. But s or being if you do trust them, he way of and you’re ready to embark on some sciour thing. ence, make it easy to enu of op- convey how the situar partners tion is going for you. where you If talking explicitly your level during the activity like strip- isn’t the vibe, use a role play series of safe words. e areas of Have some way to rlap. And indicate things are nty of going well and can gazines – be escalated, if things n Oprah! should stay at the ave bucket current pace, or if s of cute the action should ngs to try. slow or halt entireStep 2: ly. A simple solution w Do I is saying “green,” ng This “yellow” and “red,” like traffic signals. ? n a situ- If what you’ll be doon that is ing makes it hard to pressure speak – like someone d private, is gagged – make sure cuss what there’s a non-verbal d of ex- way to communicate. ience you Step 3: Read Up saying the & Grab Your Gear nderstand Go to a trusted instance, sexuality education source for advice on safelight taps ty, techniques and what toys are suggested. may think Bringing in a vibrator or dildo? Depending on
SEX WITH TIMAREE what it’s made of, you might need to switch what type of lube you use. Silicone lube does not play well with silicone-based toys, for instance. Oil-based lubes are no good with latex – including condoms. Trying out something physically dangerous, like choking? Make sure you learn how to press in from the sides of the neck and not down on the windpipe. Trying ass play for the first time? Look up warm up methods before diving in too far. Step 4: Remember This Is Supposed to Be Fun Keep pleasure at the forefront of experimentation. This is less about getting a job done than about connecting, feeling sensations, and moving out of the comfort zone into a place where we’re less sure of what’s going to happen. Stay present in the experience, honor your limitations, and make it easy for your partner to know what’s working and what could be adjusted. Feel free to laugh if something silly happens. If it stops being fun, move on to something else. Step 5: Debrief Afterward, chat about how it went for you. What did you love? What was surprising? What would you have wanted more of ? What would you like to try again? Discuss what transpired using “I statements” about what you felt, hold back on critiques. Few people are stellar at anything the first time. Don’t be afraid to try, and try again. Have a question for Timaree? Send an email to asktimaree@philadelphiaweekly. com.
“For some folks, there are fantasies perched in their brain, stacked atop each other in a libidinous heap, eagerly waiting for a green light. For other folks, the classic Insert-Tab-A-IntoSlot-B has been more than satisfactory and anything fancier would just make things complicated.”
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NOTICE OF APPLICATION TO RELOCATE A BRANCH OFFICE Notice is hereby given that Citizens Bank, National Association, One Citizens Plaza, Providence, RI 02903, has filed an application with the Comptroller of the Currency on May XX, 2021, as specified in 12 CFR 5 for permission to relocate the branch at 4221 Pearl Road, Cleveland, OH 44109 to 4106 Pearl Road, Cleveland, OH 44109. Any person wishing to comment on this application may file comments in writing with the Director for Large Bank Licensing, Office of the Comptroller of the Currency, 400 7th Street SW, Mail Stop 10E-2, Washington, DC 20219 within 30 days after the date of this publication. General Employment
GENERAL AND TREATMENT FOSTER PARENTS NEEDED Open your heart and home to children of all ages New Foundations, Inc. 215-203-8733 www.nfi4kids.org SECRETARY/ LEASING AGENT - F/T Located in NE Phila. Pleasant person with good phone skills, to show apts., process applications, minimal secretarial work. Email resume to: nsgprop@gmail.com or Call 732-886-6830 PAID RESEARCH SUBJECT SPACE MISSION SIMULATION 8 day study of resilience at U. of PA. Must be healthy, about 27-55 yr. old with BS/BA or military exp. Compensated time & travel. Call 215-573-5855
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Full Time Flagger Traffic Plan seeks FT Flaggers to set up & control traffic around construction sites. A valid drivers license is a must, good pay & benefits. If interested please fill out an application at 510 Hertzog Boulevard King Of Prussia, PA 19406 on Mondays 9am -12pm or apply online at or online at www.trafficplan.com
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Full Stack Developer. Architect/design/dev. software soln’s. U.S. Bach. or higher or foreign equiv. (Computer Science or related) req’d. 5 yrs’ prog. responsible post-bacc. experience in IT field req’d. Prior exp. must include min. 2 yrs. in software developer and/or programmer position(s) a) involving appl’n of CI & CD principles and b) using Microsoft Azure, React JS, TIBCO EMS to develop, program & customize software solutions. ECFMG, Philadelphia, PA 19104. EOE. Resumes to: Recruiting, ECFMG, 3624 Market Street, 4th Flr., Philadelphia, PA 19104.
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T-Mobile proposes to modify an existing facility (new tip heights 241.4’ & 244’) on the building at 115-121 S. Broad St, Philadelphia, PA (20190643). Interested parties may contact Scott Horn (856-809-1202) (1012 Industrial Dr., West Berlin, NJ 08091) with comments regarding potential effects on historic properties.
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