Out LGBTQ Figure Skater Timothy Leduc and His Partner Ashley Cain

Nationals bound Out LGBTQ figure skater Timothy LeDuc and his partner Ashley Cain-Gribble have their sights set on another national championship by Coy Covington, Page 9 2 dallasvoice.com █ 01.08.21 toc01.08.21 | Volume 37 | Issue 36 8 headlines departments CAROLE ANN BOYD, DDS, PC JONATHAN VOGEL, DDS █ TEXAS NEWS 6 InstanTEA 8 Tx Lege: 8 News Call today 214.521.6261 What to expect 12 Voices 4514 Cole Ave, Ste. 905 9 Tx skaters 14 Life+Style DrBoyd.net 14 look to nationals

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01.08.21 █ dallasvoice 3 IMPORTANT FACTS FOR BIKTARVY® This is only a brief summary of important information about BIKTARVY and does not replace (bik-TAR-vee) talking to your healthcare provider about your condition and your treatment.

MOST IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT BIKTARVY POSSIBLE SIDE EFFECTS OF BIKTARVY BIKTARVY may cause serious side effects, including: BIKTARVY may cause serious side effects, including: � Worsening of hepatitis B (HBV) infection. If you have � Those in the “Most Important Information About both HIV-1 and HBV, your HBV may suddenly get worse if BIKTARVY” section. you stop taking BIKTARVY. Do not stop taking BIKTARVY � Changes in your immune system. Your immune system without first talking to your healthcare provider, as they may get stronger and begin to fight infections. Tell your will need to check your health regularly for several months. healthcare provider if you have any new symptoms after you start taking BIKTARVY. ABOUT BIKTARVY � Kidney problems, including kidney failure. Your healthcare BIKTARVY is a complete, 1-pill, once-a-day prescription provider should do blood and urine tests to check your medicine used to treat HIV-1 in adults and children who kidneys. If you develop new or worse kidney problems, they weigh at least 55 pounds. It can either be used in people who may tell you to stop taking BIKTARVY. have never taken HIV-1 medicines before, or people who are � Too much lactic acid in your blood (lactic acidosis), which is replacing their current HIV-1 medicines and whose healthcare a serious but rare medical emergency that can lead to death. provider determines they meet certain requirements. Tell your healthcare provider right away if you get these symptoms: weakness or being more tired than usual, unusual BIKTARVY does not cure HIV-1 or AIDS. HIV-1 is the virus muscle pain, being short of breath or fast breathing, stomach that causes AIDS. pain with nausea and vomiting, cold or blue hands and feet, Do NOT take BIKTARVY if you also take a medicine that contains: feel dizzy or lightheaded, or a fast or abnormal heartbeat. � Severe liver problems, which in rare cases can lead to death. HUGO � dofetilide Tell your healthcare provider right away if you get these � rifampin symptoms: skin or the white part of your eyes turns yellow, LIVING WITH HIV SINCE 1995 � any other medicines to treat HIV-1 dark “tea-colored” urine, light-colored stools, loss of appetite REAL BIKTARVY PATIENT for several days or longer, nausea, or stomach-area pain. BEFORE TAKING BIKTARVY � The most common side effects of BIKTARVY in clinical studies were diarrhea (6%), nausea (6%), and headache (5%). Tell your healthcare provider if you: These are not all the possible side effects of BIKTARVY. � Have or have had any kidney or liver problems, including Tell your healthcare provider right away if you have any hepatitis infection. new symptoms while taking BIKTARVY. � Have any other health problems. You are encouraged to report negative side effects of � Are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. It is not known if prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit www.FDA.gov/medwatch KEEP BIKTARVY can harm your unborn baby. Tell your healthcare or call 1-800-FDA-1088. provider if you become pregnant while taking BIKTARVY. Your healthcare provider will need to do tests to monitor your � Are breastfeeding (nursing) or plan to breastfeed. Do not health before and during treatment with BIKTARVY. breastfeed. HIV-1 can be passed to the baby in breast milk. CONNECTING. Tell your healthcare provider about all the medicines HOW TO TAKE BIKTARVY you take: Take BIKTARVY 1 time each day with or without food. Because HIV doesn’t change who you are. � Keep a list that includes all prescription and over-the-counter GET MORE INFORMATION medicines, antacids, laxatives, vitamins, and herbal supplements, and show it to your healthcare provider � This is only a brief summary of important information about BIKTARVY® is a complete, 1-pill, once-a-day prescription medicine used and pharmacist. BIKTARVY. Talk to your healthcare provider or pharmacist to learn more. to treat HIV-1 in certain adults. BIKTARVY does not cure HIV-1 or AIDS. � BIKTARVY and other medicines may affect each other. Ask your healthcare provider and pharmacist about � Go to BIKTARVY.com or call 1-800-GILEAD-5 Ask your healthcare provider if BIKTARVY is right for you. medicines that interact with BIKTARVY, and ask if it is � If you need help paying for your medicine, visit BIKTARVY.com safe to take BIKTARVY with all your other medicines. for program information. See Hugo’s story at BIKTARVY.com. Featured patient compensated by Gilead.

Get HIV support by downloading a free app at BIKTARVY, the BIKTARVY Logo, DAILY CHARGE, the DAILY CHARGE Logo, LOVE WHAT’S INSIDE, GILEAD, and the GILEAD Logo are trademarks of Gilead Sciences, Inc., or its related companies. Version date: February 2020 Please see Important Facts about BIKTARVY, including important MyDailyCharge.com © 2020 Gilead Sciences, Inc. All rights reserved. BVYC0218 04/20 warnings, on the previous page and visit BIKTARVY.com.

4 dallasvoice.com █ 01.08.21

BVYC0218_BIKTARVY_B_10-375X11-5_DallasVoice_Hugo_r1v2jl.indd All Pages 7/10/20 3:21 PM IMPORTANT FACTS FOR BIKTARVY® This is only a brief summary of important information about BIKTARVY and does not replace (bik-TAR-vee) talking to your healthcare provider about your condition and your treatment.

01.08.21 █ dallasvoice 5

BVYC0218_BIKTARVY_B_10-375X11-5_DallasVoice_Hugo_r1v2jl.indd All Pages 7/10/20 3:21 PM DallasVoice.com/Instant-Tea the election. Paul Allen dies of Highlights from the Dallas Voice Website instan Visit DallasVoice.com for more coverage ‘homicidal violence’ TEA courtesy of The Washington Blade. Local musician Paul Allen, 65, was found — Michael Lavers & Kaela Roeder Trump extremists stage steps of the Capitol, then stormed further into dead in the passenger seat of his car at his attempted coup the building after they scaled walls and broke home in West Dallas on Dec. 23. windows. The Capitol was Dems sweep Georgia The cause of death is “homicidal violence” ac- placed on lockdown after senate races cording to the coroner and police say the motive the infiltration, and debate on Democratic candidates Rev. Ralph Warnock is unknown. Police found the body after respond- the Electoral College results and Jon Ossoff both won their runoff races in ing to a welfare check call. Allen had a heart certifying the election of Pres- Georgia on Tuesday, Jan. 5. The upper cham- attack while driving in September and friends ident-elect Biden and Vice ber of Congress is now half Democrats and half were worried he had suffered another one. President-elect Harris paused Republicans, which means that any tie votes Crime Stoppers is offering a $5,000 reward at around 2 p.m. after Jan. 20 will be decided by Vice President for information leading to an arrest. If you have After a recess of about six Kamala Harris, a Democrat. information, contact Det. Christopher Anderson hours, the Senate and the With Democrats in control of the White House, at 214-671-3616 or c.anderson@dallascityhall. House reconvened, and just the House of Representatives and the Senate, com and refer to case 228617-2020. before 4 a.m., Vice President “real change can happen,” said Tim Boyd, owner — David Taffet Mike Pence announced that and publisher of the Georgia Voice newspaper. Congress had finished count- “This is a great day for Georgia and the nation.” ing the Electoral College votes Fort Worth chef competing There was a lot riding on the outcome of and certified the election of Georgia’s two U.S. Senate races Tuesday. For on ‘Hell’s Kitchen’ Joe Biden and Kamala Harris. Openly LGBTQ chef Jordan Savell of Fort the LGBTQ community, it was the difference Four people died in what Worth is one of the 16 chefs from around the between securing federal laws prohibiting is being called an insurrection country competing to win the 19th season of Trump extremists storm the U.S. Capitol on Wednesday, Jan. discrimination based on sexual orientation and and an attempted coup. One Gordon Ramsay’s reality competition show 6, in an attempt to stop Congress from certifying the Nov. 3 gender identity and watching existing laws of the dead was a woman who Hell’s Kitchen, which premiered Thursday night, election results and officially declaring Joe Biden to be presi- ignored, challenged or misinterpreted to enable was shot inside the Capitol Jan. 7, at 7 p.m. on Fox 4 KDFW. dent-elect. (Washington Blade photo by Michael K. Lavers) such discrimination. building by police; the other Jordan is a former-EMT-turned-chef who Among the first order of business for the new three died of “medical emergencies.” previously worked as a line cook at Blue Sushi Thousands of President Trump’s supporters Congress will likely be passage of the Equality The chaos at the Capitol began after a rally and as a sous chef at Eddie V’s. She is also stormed the U.S. Capitol on Wednesday, Jan. Act, which has not been allowed a vote in the at which Trump encouraged the thousands about to launch her very own food truck here in 6, as lawmakers were beginning to certify the Republican-controlled Senate even after it has of people gathered to protest the certification the Fort Worth area. Electoral College results. passed the U.S. House three times. process to march to the Capitol and “protect” — Tammye Nash Trump loyalists breached security on the — Lisa Keen PET SUPPLIES PLUS® minus the hassle YOU CLICK, WE FETCH! FREE Curbside pickup in 2 hours

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6 dallasvoice.com █ 01.08.21 tered either yearly or every three years, required to be vaccinated against rabies by based on age and lifestyle. 4 months of age. In cases where a human Vaccines: Which are the most important ones for dogs? The parvo vaccine is typically combined is bitten by a dog, it is also extremely vital with another very important vaccine which to have our pups up to date on their rabies prevents infection with the virus called vaccines in order to avoid legal issues, and ello, and mostly distemper. This virus, also considered lethal, more importantly, avoid our babies from go- welcome to in the is transmitted mostly through saliva and ing through challenges that may be stressful a new year! digestive sneezing or coughing by an infected dog or or negative for them. Let’s hope that system. another animal that may carry the virus. It We usually start this vaccine after 3 the symbol- This lethal affects different systems in the body, espe- months of age, and while the first one is ism of a new virus, cially the respiratory and nervous systems. typically good for one year, it is usually year brings an trans- As with parvo, there is no cure for this administered every 3 years thereafter. opportunity to mitted viral infection, and prevention is the most There are other vaccines for dogs, but move forward through important aspect in keeping our pups from the vaccines discussed here are the most and learn from stools, suffering with this horrible disease. popular ones. Regarding vaccine reactions, the past as much as we can. I am excit- almost Another important organism that can be the most common ones that are usually not ed to welcome 2021 with my first Dallas always af- prevented from affecting dogs through a alarming are lethargy and soreness at the Voice Woof column of the year. And this fects pup- vaccine is the bacteria known as bordetella, injection site. These usually go away within time around, I want to discuss the most pies and which causes what is commonly known as 1-2 days after administering the vaccines. important vaccines and what they protect younger kennel cough. This vaccine, however, does However, more concerning reactions that our babies against. dogs, not fully prevent kennel cough, as there are can be seen include excessive vomiting/ I want to start by noting that many doc- especially other kinds of bacterias and viruses that diarrhea, facial swelling, hives and even tors have different approaches to vaccines if they are not fully vaccinated. It causes can cause this respiratory disease. It is still collapsing. These reactions can be life and how often they should be adminis- dehydration from vomiting and diarrhea, considered a very important vaccine for threatening and should be immediately ad- tered. I am a fan of “less is more” and of along with lack of appetite. Many times it dogs that socialize with other dogs, and it is dressed by your veterinarian. Thankfully, we determining which vaccines are needed starts with just lack of appetite and within always strongly recommended. are seeing less and less vaccine reactions based on lifestyle. just a couple of days, they are usually This vaccine is usually given after 8 these days, and they are considered to be We will be focusing on dog vaccines, as severely affected by the virus. weeks of age and, depending on the type an exception in the present, even with the there are multiple different ones that are Canine parvovirus can live in the envi- of vaccine and the lifestyle of the dog, it is strongest of vaccines. important to address. For my cat parents ronment for many months, which is why it usually repeated every year. As always, I hope this information I have and cat lovers: Feel free to contact me, and is so important to avoid taking our puppies Lastly, we have the rabies vaccine. This shared through my Woof column is helpful I will gladly discuss cat vaccines in detail. that are not fully vaccinated to areas where one is very important because it not only and cheers to an amazing year!! 2020 will But they are far more simple than dog other dogs go to to avoid exposure to this prevents a lethal disease that is transmis- not repeat itself, right? Abrazos, my friends. vaccines. and other infectious organisms. This vac- sible to humans, but it is also required by Dr. Josh owns Isla Veterinary Boutique Let us start with the most common dog cine is usually started at 6-8 weeks of age authorities. Hospital, 14380 Marsh Lane, Ste. 110 in vaccine: the parvo vaccine. Parvo is a virus and is given every three weeks until four According to the Texas Department of Addison (next to Tom Thumb). Visit IslaVet. that attacks with rapidly dividing cells, months of age. Afterwards, it is adminis- State Health Services, dogs and cats are com or call 972-738-1111.

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01.08.21 █ dallasvoice 7 The good, the bad

Following is a list of bills specifically What to dealing with LGBTQ and HIV/AIDS issues expect that have been prefiled for the 87th session of the Texas Legislature. out of Austin GOOD: • HB 73 by Rep. Gina Hinojosa, D-Aus- tin, barring the use of one’s LGBT identity against a person in court. A glimpse at the next • HB 126 by by Rep. Ina Minjarez, D-San legislative session Antonio, legalizing needle exchanges. • HB 188 by Rep. Diego Bernal, D-San Antonio, and SB 233 by Sen. John Whit- JAMES RUSSELL | Contributing Writer mire, D-Houston, banning discrimination [email protected] based on sexual orientation and gender identity. hat do se- • HB 191 by Bernal, banning housing discrimination against LGBTQ people. cession, • HB 198 by Rep. Mary Gonzalez, marijuana D-Clint, amending state statute to include and fla- same-sex couples under the state’s so- grant viola- called Romeo and Juliet law. tions of the • HB 338 Rep. Jon Rosenthal, D-Hous- ton, and SB 210 by Sen. Sarah Eckhardt, U.S. Consti- D-Austin, making it easier for a transgender tution have in person to change their names on govern- common? They’re all topics addressed ment records and changing the state’s among the more the bills filed ahead of Romeo and Juliet law to include same-sex the 87th legislative session, which con- couples. • HB 493 by Rep. Gene Wu, D-Houston, venes next week on Jan. 12. Incumbent requiring insurance cover HIV testing. and incoming legislators have filed more • HB 560 by Rep. Celia Israel, D-Austin, than 1,000 bills since legislators began to HB 407 by Rep. Ana Hernandez of Hous- file bills on Nov. 9. ton, and SB 97 by Sen. Jose Menendez, Pre-filed bills include a variety of top- D-San Antonio, all banning so-called repar- ative therapy on children 18 and younger. ics, from one calling for a voter referen- • HB 726 by Hernandez, banning dum on whether Texas should secede nonconsensual surgery for intersex foster from the United States filed by Rep. Kyle children. Angela Hale with journalist Harvey Kronberg at Equality Texas’ anniversary celebration in Biedermann, a Central Texas Republi- • HB 730 by González of Dallas, repeal- November 2019. can, to a bill abolishing the death penalty ing the language allowing religious foster agencies to refuse LGBT people, among filed by Rep. Harold Dutton, a Houston across the country in previous legislative Another bill, introduced by Rep. Garnet others. Democrat. sessions, including in Texas, restricting Coleman, D-Houston, that would have • SB 129 by Sen. Nathan Johnson, Legislative priorities have not been fi- bathroom access for trans people. added sexual orientation and gender D-Dallas, changing the language in state nalized, but members have filed a range While those bills failed in Texas, and identity to the state hate crimes’ statue, statute to include same-sex couples and of bills legalizing or decriminalizing even led to election losses for some of received a committee hearing as well. removing the state’s sodomy ban, which was ruled unconstitutional more than two marijuana for recreational use, further their most prominent backers, anti-LGBT But in a major victory for the progres- decades ago by the Supreme Court. criminal justice reforms and expanded advocates are not giving up on their ef- sive factions, Republican legislators last mental health services. forts attacking transgender people. session killed a set of bills considered a BAD: But the culture wars haven’t gone “They’re pivoting from bathroom priority by business groups and Repub- • HB 68 by Rep. Steve Toth, R-The away. A bill from Rep. Steve Toth, R-The bills and are now going after trans lican leaders. Those so-called pre-emp- Woodlands, banning medically-necessary procedures for children 18 and under. Woodlands, would punish medical pro- kids again,” Hale said. Transition care tion bills would have barred cities from • HB 369 by Rep. Tom Craddick, viders who provide transition care for includes hormone blockers, a medi- requiring companies to provide certain R-Midland, adding the use of HIV and other transgender children, is at the top of cally-approved process supported by benefits, including paid sick leave, and communicable diseases in a criminal case arch-conservative lawmakers’ minds. healthcare organizations. from regulating employee scheduling. to felony law. While there are other members that Other anticipated bills include some Those measures were popular among — James Russell support his bill, Toth may face an uphill restricting transgender athletes’ partic- Republicans, but the original Senate climb: He’s rescinded his endorsement ipation in sports and religious refusal sponsor bucked business groups and of Gov. Greg Abbott and has filed bills bills allowing faith-based groups to deny other stakeholders by also prohibiting push legislation that could be used as restricting Abbott’s emergency powers services to LGBTQ people based on reli- nondiscrimination ordinances. So the a vehicle for discrimination. “It’s com- as a result of the coronavirus pandemic. gious beliefs. bills ultimately died, in part due to then- pletely unacceptable ... . This is 2019,” he Angela Hale, Equality Texas’s senior Still, LGBTQ advocates may have rea- State Affairs Committee Chair Dade said at the time. advisor, said Toth’s bill is similar to bills son to be optimistic this session. Last Phelan, R-Beaumont. Phelan is now While Phelan overall earned a C on filed in other state legislatures. The at- session, in 2019, many LGBT bills re- Speaker of the House-elect. Equality Texas’s 2019 voting scorecard, tacks on transgender kids are what she ceived committee hearings for the first Phelan told the Texas Tribune last year Phelan is backed by the Republican cau- called “the bathroom bill 2 or 3.0,” re- time, including one by Rep. Celia Israel, he was “done talking about bashing on cus and many Democrats, including the ferring to the anti-transgender bills filed D-Austin, banning conversion therapy. the gay community” and didn’t want to AUSTIN, Page 10

8 dallasvoice.com █ 01.08.21 Making lemonade — or vodka? — out of 2020

Out U.S. Pairs figure skater said, “that the announcement was made Timothy LeDuc and his partner that Worlds were canceled. It was almost a blessing, I think, to be surrounded by Ashley Cain-Gribble head to Las all those other teams, because everyone Vegas prepared to fight to regain understood and felt the same thing. It their national title wasn’t like we were alone in the situa- tion. “Some of the teams took the news COY COVINGTON | Contributing Writer worse than others because it was going [email protected] to be their first Worlds, and they had worked so hard to achieve the minimal ome say if life gives you technical score to be eligible to compete,” lemons, make lemonade. she continued. “Plus, many were from Or, if life gives you pota- small nations and had done so much for toes, make vodka. In ei- the opportunity to represent their coun- ther case, it’s an optimis- tries.” tic view; 2020 tossed us It would have been so easy to let the a live hand grenade and disappointment define them; some told us to deal with it. teams retired after the cancellation. But The 2019 U. S. Nation- Cain-Gribble and LeDuc are almost pre- al Pairs Champion figure skaters Ash- ternaturally focused, so it was back home ley Cain-Gribble and her queer partner to prepare for what was next to come. Timothy LeDuc were gliding along into There was no ice in North Texas, but 2020 in fine form. They were looking to there was the Cain family backyard defend their national title, with an eye where they practiced lifts and strength- on a return trip to the world champion- ening and conditioning exercises. ships. The top two finishers at Nationals “We did anything we could to move traditionally are chosen for the World forward,” LeDuc said. “Just because team, and in 2020 two teams were qual- there was no ice didn’t mean that our ified based on the top-10 placement of task was finished. It was interesting and Cain-Gribble & LeDuc at the previous a new experience for us. Actually, it was 2019 world competition. good for us because we got really strong (Only one team qualified in 2018. Got and put a lot of time into our overall that? It can be a bit complicated.) physique, so that when we got back on But uncharacteristic mistakes by the ice we were able to move forward Cain-Gribble and LeDuc at the 2020 very quickly.” Nationals left them as pewter Medal- They even roller skated to keep mov- ists (fourth place), and their dreams of Timothy LeDuc and Ashley Cain-Gribble on the ice. (Photo courtesy of USFS) ing. a return to the World competition were The “overall physique” work is in ob- dashed. The 2020 World Championships were attention in New Jersey at an interna- vious evidence. Cain-Gribble (5 feet, 6 Or were they? set to be an ultra-marquee event. Taking tional team training camp with famed inches) and LeDuc (6 feet, 1 inch) have U.S. Figure Skating, the national gov- place mid-March in the magnificent des- Russian Coach Nina Mozer. sickening bodies. Often called “the tall erning body for the sport of figure skat- tination city of Montreal, all the top skat- “We were training with many of team,” they have a gorgeous and coming in the United States, has the right to ers were set to compete; the arena was the top teams that we would compete manding presence on the ice. Or in the name who goes to Worlds (other than the sold out. What could go wrong? against in Montreal,” Cain-Gribble re- back yard. gold medalists, who automatically nab a Cain-Gribble (Dallas born and bred) called. “Every day all the teams came in, As the days in quarantine grew longer reserved spot). Based on their superior and LeDuc (a native of Cedar Rapids, were working so hard and putting in all and longer, they continued the forward international experience, Cain-Gribble Iowa) train locally at the Children’s their effort.” momentum — still with no ice. “We cho- and LeDuc triple-flipped their way past Health StarCenter/Euless under the tu- Then the hand grenade detonated. No reographed the entirety of both our com- the bronze and silver medalists and were telage of Peter Cain and Darlene Cain lemonade. No vodka. Just the explosion petitive programs on a hardwood floor named to the world team (Lemon-lem- (Cain-Gribble’s parents). Prior to Mon- heard round the world. onade/potato-vodka!). treal, Team Cain was getting specialized “Then came the day,” Cain-Gribble 2020, Page 10

01.08.21 █ dallasvoice 9 they remain undaunted. “We chose the music,” said Leduc, “be- , From Previous Page 2020 Fun Fact: Cain-Gribble and LeDuc have cause both of us have had such wonder- with our choreographer in Michigan via a good friend who is a skater and drag ful experiences having watched so many queen that has choreographed competitive FaceTime,” LeDuc explained. programs for them. His boy name is of our favorite skaters have amazing During quarantine, they weren’t alone. Cordero, but fans will come to know him championship-winning moments with Cain-Gribble had her handsome hubby, better as Denali as he competes on Season this music. We wanted to do it much like Dalton. And LeDuc had his plants. Yep, 13 of RuPaul’s Drag Race. The first episode an homage to those who have inspired he’s a gardening master with a massive kicked off Jan. 1 with an odd new format us, but also as a way to bring our own that is receiving decidedly mixed reactions. verdant thumb, so he tended to his apart- But Denali served fab fierceness with a style and uniqueness to this piece. ment arboretum during his spare time. first costume that included, natch, beaded/ “We’re really excited to continue to de- LeDuc, a vocal activist for LGBTQ is- bangled boots and blades. You go, girl. velop the program, and, hopefully, when sues, was able to continue his advocacy Good luck, and don’t f*ck it up! people hear this music, they will associ- for DFW-Fuse, a group for gay, bisex- ate it with us as well as the past champi- ual, pansexual, queer and questioning detailed protocols (before and after the ons who inspired us,” he added. guys between the ages of 18 and 35 in event) and working with Orleans Arena Going into the 2021 U.S. National the Metroplex with a mission to foster Management and local health officials, Championships, returning to the skubble a safe, healthy, and supportive commu- the USFS skubble brought a contained at Orleans Arena, Cain-Gribble and LeDuc nity. LeDuc also serves on U.S. Figure and campus-like feel to the event where have kept up the pace with training, and Skating’s Diversity, Equity and Inclu- all the people working and competing they are confident going into what will be sion Task Force. Ever the passionate felt safe and protected. their fifth nationals competition. ally, Cain-Gribble joins LeDuc on the There were no spectators, but there “We are leaving no stone unturned USFS Athlete Advisory Committee. were fan cutouts placed around the are- in our preparation for these champion- The team finally got limited ice time in na, which helped give the illusion of an ships” LeDuc declared. “We’re very hun- late May and discovered the hard train- audience. Both Cain-Gribble and LeDuc gry to be national champions again. We ing had paid off because they were able heap praise on USFS for pulling off this think that we are far and away the best to land their jumps the first day back. An LeDuc and Cain-Gribble used the quarantine championship in grand fashion during team in this country. We are the most impressive feat. With impressive feet. downtime to work on their physical fitness off challenging times and noted that no one well rounded, the most consistent and Summer moved forward, and the the ice. got sick as a result of the event. the strongest. What we do on the ice, no team trained. There was a little “oops” Skate America was the first time other American team can do. We want to along the way when Cain-Gribble clob- mended enough to compete in a virtu- Cain-Gribble and LeDuc unveiled their show that and to reclaim our title.” bered LeDuc with an elbow during an al competition where they finished an new routines on a nationally-televised It would appear that Cain-Gribble and exit from a twist lift which earned him a impressive third. Then in October, they event. For their short program they skat- LeDuc looked 2020 in the face, did a hair- trip to the E.R. and a broken nose. Such competed at Skate America, which was ed a jazzy/bluesy “Never Tear Us Apart” flip and drank a toast to 2021. Wonder if injuries are not infrequent in pairs fig- an impressive accomplishment hosted by Bishop Briggs. Then came their free it was lemonade or vodka? █ ure skating which is fiercely challeng- by USFA in that it was successfully com- program, skated to the well-known war- Senior Competition at U.S. Nationals being and most assuredly a contact sport. peted in a skubble (skate bubble) at the horse, Rachmaninoff’s “Piano Concerto gins Jan. 14 and can be seen on NBC and Come September, the team had Orleans Arena in Las Vegas. Following No. 2.” It’s the team’s first warhorse, but NBCSN. Check local listings.

ty PAC. Her loss to Johnson makes her icine services. Currently, insurers do not guage allowing faith-based foster agen- party even more conservative, and since pay medical providers the same rate for cies to refuse LGBTQ people and others AUSTIN, From Page 8 Democrats also lost a seat, the House is telemedical services as they do for phys- based on religious beliefs, otherwise founding leaders of the LGBTQ Caucus. more conservative as well. ical appointments. known as religious freedom or religious The chamber’s partisan makeup will Johnson’s election, however, adds to the Julie Johnson also filed bills legalizing bills. That rule became law in 2017. be the same as last session’s, with Re- ranks of openly LGBTQ legislators in the marijuana. Thousands of bills may be already publicans holding 83 seats to Democrats’ lower chamber, bringing the total to six. Rep. Jessica González, D-Dallas, has filed, but many of those may never see the 67. Most of the damning anti-LGBTQ “Every legislative session, the rights filed 21 bills so far, including a package light. The legislature this year also must bills were dead on arrival last session, so of LGBTQ people are on the line,” Hale of 11 bills addressing affordable housing, address a budget multi-billion-dollar there is hope the same thing will happen said. But while the group and its allies the election code and strengthening the budget deficit caused by the COVID-19 this time around. have been on the defense, they want to habeas corpus process. pandemic, the decennial redistricting At the same time, the chamber ironi- be on the offense, including working “Despite the COVID-19 pandemic, our process (which will be controlled by Re- cally became even more conservative af- with both parties to advance pro-LGBTQ office has remained diligent in working publicans) and the prospect of a short ter the November elections. That’s when legislation. for House District 104,” Jessica González session initially focused on their one con- Rep.-elect Ann Johnson of Houston, a While members of the caucus are fo- said. “I am looking forward to the 87th stitutional duty: passing a budget. lesbian attorney and Democrat, defeat- cused on advancing pro-LGBTQ legis- Legislative session so we can continue Many lawmakers have suggested ed Republican Rep. Sarah Davis, R-West lation, they also have other legislative to serve our community. Protecting and holding a separation session for the re- University Place. Davis is a moderate Re- agendas. expanding affordable housing is a nec- quired decennial redistricting process publican, and the only steadfast backer Rep. Julie Johnson, D-Carrollton, has essary action to ensure our communities once vaccinations have been distributed of LGBTQ rights among Republicans in filed eight bills addressing health insur- can continue living in their homes and to the general public. Talks are ongoing, the House. She was backed by the Hu- ance reforms, including closing the pay neighborhoods.” and lawmakers have until the 87th ses- man Rights Campaign and Texas Equi- parity for doctors who provide telemed- She also filed a bill to repeal the lan- sion begins on Jan. 12 to decide. █

10 dallasvoice.com █ 01.08.21 MEDICAL PRACTICE OF Dr. Steven M. Pounders Erin Simms FNP-C Hands-on or Telehealth Steven M. Pounders, MD Services include: • In office appointments available • Primary Care Chad Nyland, DO • Telehealth appointments online • HIV Specialists • LGBT owned and operated • Gender Affirmation D. Trew Deckard, PA-C, MHS • More than 30 years-experience • Cosmetic Procedures Cameron Wyatt, • Ask about PrEP FNP-C

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01.08.21 █ dallasvoice 11 Phone 214-754-8710 █ Fax 844-313-2282 1825 Market Center Blvd., Ste. 240, Dallas, Texas 75207 █ commUNITY Hours: Weekdays 9 a.m.–5 p.m. • dallasvoice.com voices administration Leo Cusimano Publisher █ 114 editorial Tammye Nash Managing Editor █ 113 David Taffet Senior Staff Writer █ 125 Philip Burton Proofreader Contributors: Chris Azzopardi, Gary Bellomy, Jenny Block, A final from 2020 J. Denton Bricker, Joey Cassiano, Jesus Chairez, Alicia Chang, insult D’Anne Witowski, Lawrence Ferber, Hardy Haberman, guess the “year from hell” would coal mine COVID. My physician checked in on Scott Huffman, Lisa Keen, Mark Lowry, Steven Monacelli, not be complete for me if it didn’t as has me once they got my phone message Cassie Nova, Josh Robbins, Mikey Rox, Howard Lewis Russell, James Russell, Terri Schlichenmeyer, Leslie McMurray, I include the one thing I worked dili- been tout- (Remember: It was Christmas Day). Mathew Shaw, Brandi Amara Skyy, Mark Stokes, Jef Tingley, gently for just over 10 months to avoid: ed. Just They basically told me to drink liquids, Casey Williams COVID-19. The novel coronavirus de- because rest and take vitamin supplements. advertising cided to take up residence in my and you aren’t I was already on low-dose aspirin Chad Mantooth Advertising Director █ 131 my partner’s bodies as the year was running and blood thinners for another condi- Stephen Mobley MarketPlace Sales █ 123 coming to a close, though I suspect I a fever tion, and early reports say those things National Advertising Representative might have had symptoms a day or two doesn’t aid in recovery from COVID. Lucky Rivendell Media Inc. 908-232-2021 before my partner did. The confirma- mean me! Also, because I am asthmatic, I al- art tion came while I was preparing Christ- you don’t ready take an inhaled steroid, and that Kevin Thomas Art Director █ 119 mas dinner. have the might actually be keeping me from get- multimedia I was mincing fresh garlic to rub on virus. ting worse. Stephen Mobley Social Media Director █ 123 the turkey breast I was going to cook. There As I continue to recover, I find I feel Brian Kennedy Video Producer Normally when I am doing this, the is a lot compelled to warn people that the loos- Israel Luna Video Producer/DVtv host kitchen is infused with the aroma of about this disease we don’t know, so ey-goosey measures some people are Brad Pritchett DVtv Host garlic, and my fingers maintain the better safe than sorry. taking might not be enough to assure Brandi Amara Skyy DVtv Host Regina Lyn DVtv Host odor far longer than I would like. But Christmas day was uneventful, ex- you don’t pick up this malady. Wear a this time as I smashed the last clove, I cept that I felt overwhelmingly fa- mask whenever you go out in public. circulation realized I couldn’t smell it. tigued. I spent most of the day cooking Stay socially distanced (eight feet is my Linda Depriter Circulation Director █ 120 I had been having what I thought and napping. All that was missing was new standard). Stay away from groups founders was my typical seasonal allergy bout, watching football. That night I slept and crowds. If possible, stay home. Robert Moore █ Don Ritz but no amount of congestion has ever 10 hours — a record for someone like Wash your hands and use hand sani- affiliations/memberships masked the smell of fresh garlic. As I me who rises with the dawn, no matter tizer. Try not to touch your face. If you Associated Press - Associate Member began sautéing onions for the dressing, how late I stayed out the night before. have to meet with someone, do it over National Lesbian and Gay Journalists Association I again noted that there was absolutely We both called all our friends and rel- Zoom or some other online service. Certified LGBT Business Enterprise Founding Member - North Texas LGBT Chamber no heady aroma. atives and gave them the news, though Yes, I did all of that, and I still slipped Founding Member - National LGBT Media Association I mentioned this to my partner who both of us had no plans to get together up somewhere. I probably got over-con- had already become worried about my with anyone for the holidays. We were fident or just let my guard down. The sniffling and coughing, and we both following the CDC guidelines pretty point is, it only takes one little mistake promptly went online and made ap- closely. My hands are dry and chapped and BINGO! Except this thing has no pointments to get tested for COVID. from all the washing and hand sanitiz- winners. He drew an earlier appointment than er, and I have been beyond stir crazy as Not everyone ends up in the ER or mine, and so I drove him to the CVS lo- I worked from home on most days and on a ventilator, but going through this cation doing the testing. always stayed away from others and mild case so far, I can assure you it is no In just a few hours, we got a call from wore my mask religiously. picnic, and I want it to be over! the pharmacy: He had tested positive. What I have learned as I have expe- May 2021 bring not just the vaccine © 2020 Voice Publishing Company, Inc. All rights reserved. Reprint rights are available only by written consent of the Knowing that, I cancelled mine for the rienced this disease first-hand is that it that beats this disease, but common publisher or managing editor. next day. There was no doubt that I had is not exactly as advertised in the me- sense to everyone until that vaccine Dallas Voice is published every Friday. Additional copies may be purchased for $1 each, payable in advance at it as well. dia. For me and my partner, it has been reaches enough people to provide the the Dallas Voice office. Dallas Voice may be distributed only by Dallas Voice authorized independent contractors What seemed unique, though, was very mild — mainly a persistent cough, much heralded “herd immunity.” I wish or distributors. No person may, without prior written permission of Voice Publishing, take more than one copy of the fact that I never ran a fever, and a little shortness of breath and feeling you and yours the best going forward. each Dallas Voice weekly issue. neither did my partner. We checked our much like being hit by a truck. I did And oh yes, I also wish Donald Subscriptions via First Class Mail are available: Three months (13 consecutive issues), $65. Six months (26 temperature morning and night, before have chills one night — but no fever! Trump will stay in Mar-a-Lago and consecutive issues), $85. One year (52 consecutive issues), $130. Contact Dallas Voice at 214-754-8710 x123. and after the test results. His went up What treatment did I get? Well, I did never tweet again! Paid advertising copy represents the claim(s) of the a tad but never reached what could be not rush to the emergency room since I Hardy Haberman is a longtime local LGBT advertiser. Bring inappropriate claims to the attention of the publisher. Dallas Voice reserves the right to enforce called a fever. Mine stayed the same old understand very well that hospitals are activist and a board member of the Woodhull its own judgments regarding the suitability of advertising copy, illustrations and/or photographs. slightly-under normal it always is. So it far too overwhelmed to deal with some- Freedom Alliance. His blog is at Dungeon- Unsolicited manuscripts are accepted by email only. To obtain a copy of our guidelines for contributors, seems that fever is not the canary in the one with what is, so far, a mild case of Diary.blogspot.com. send a request by email to [email protected].

12 dallasvoice.com █ 01.08.21 01.08.21 █ dallasvoice 13 LIFE+STYLE Safety — familyauto life but not at the expense of fun

2021 Volvo XC60 Recharge Five-passenger, AWD Crossover 2021 Volvo XC60 recharges its • Powertrain: 2.0-liter I4 Hybrid, 8-spd trans Drive with abandon. automaker’s reputation • System output: 400hp/472 lb.-ft. Beyond ample smooth power, there • Suspension f/r: Air Ind/Ind are other talents. Unlike some competi- CASEY WILLIAMS | Contributing Writer • Wheels f/r: 20-inch/20-inch alloy devices with Bluetooth, Wi-Fi and wire- tors’ systems that can feel chattery over • Brakes f/r: Regen disc/disc less charging pad. bumps, the four-corner air suspension [email protected] • Must-have features: Safety, Driving • Fuel economy: 27/57 mpg gas/hybrid The big center touchscreen looks system on the XC60 provides a buttoned olvo has a well-earned repu- • Assembly: Gothenburg, Sweden intimidating but swipes through log- ride. Scroll through the drive modes tation for building autos that ical screens to conjure entertainment, for Pure Electric, Hybrid, Power, AWD Vprotect their passengers. But • Base/As-tested price: $41,700/$71,340 navigation and climate controls. Swipe and Off-road to adjust the steering and the automaker is now expanding its right to select from a full menu of crash suspension from light to firm and throt- compassion for humans to include the a 240v charger to give the wagon 19 avoidance systems: lane-keep assist, for- tle response from easy to spirited. The environment. It has launched its Pole- miles all-electric range. ward collision mitigation with pedestri- suspension even adjusts ride height — star electric vehicle division and offers Moving inside is to undertake a an/cyclist detection, blind spot warning lower in Power, higher in Off-road. an all-electric XC40 compact crossover, master class in Scandinavian design. with steering assist, cross-path detection Beyond all of that wizardry, drivers but plug-in versions of its traditional Run your fingers over natural wood on and road run-off mitigation systems. get information through a colorful models will add juice to the plans, and the dash, soft Nappa leather on the seats Out on the road, you realize Vol- flatscreen instrument cluster and head- the 2021 XC60 Recharge Inscription is a and laser etched switches for volume, vo sacrificed no driving enjoyment up display, keeping eyes safely focused great example. engine starter and drive mode selector in the pursuit of electrical plugs. In on the road. Inscription means it is the upper-level in the console. Swedish glass maker fact, the enjoyment amplified. The Volvo didn’t just create a foreshadow- trim with all of the luxury style and Orrefors crafted the crystal gear selector. heart of the hybrid system is a 2.0-li- ing of its electric future, but rather a bet- gear. The XC60 is already a slick design, Volvo seats have always been sup- ter turbo-charged and super-charged ter Volvo. It’s safer than ever before, but fronted by Volvo’s trademark grille with portive pillows of comfort, but these four-cylinder engine, connected to an delights owners with a sensibly luxuri- cross-slash logo, smooth flanks, strong hug your sides, extend their lower cush- eight-speed automatic transmission and ous interior, streaming power, smooth shoulders and tail lamps that extend ions for support and can be heated or electric all-wheel-drive system. Under ride and exemplary fuel efficiency. to the roof. But additional chrome, cooled. There’s a heated steering wheel, heavy loafers, the electric system con- Of course, that comes at a price. Base curve-following LED headlamps and too. And you can open the panoramic tributes to the combined 400 horsepow- XC60s start at $41,700, but plug-in Re- 20-inch wheels distinguish our fly ride. moonroof to let in fresh air. er and 472 lb.-ft. of torque. charge models rise from $53,500. An as-test- Look closer though, and you’ll see a I’d sell my cat for the Bowers & That’s rocket power in a mid-size ed price of $71,340 reflects all it contains. tiny little difference between the XC60 Wilkins audio system ($3,200 upgrade) crossover that makes no pretensions Storm Forward! █ Recharge and other versions: a door with Gothenburg Concert Hall mode. It of being a sports car. Even better, it Send comments to Casey at AutoCasey@ on the front fender that hides the plug. acts as one big subwoofer that fills the achieves 27 MPG combined burning gas aol.com; follow him on YouTube @AutoCa- Connect to household current or, ideally, cabin with a cloud of sound. Connect or 57 MPGe during the hybrid cycle. sey.

14 dallasvoice.com █ 01.08.21 L+S screen SMILE with your EYES!

When the stars align Firth deserves another Oscar for entire performance career on hold to care for Tusker, is in denial. this role as a gay man facing his But there’s no refuting Tusker’s husband’s death condition. Especially when, early in the movie, after a pitstop where Sam leaves GREGG SHAPIRO | Contributing Writer him asleep in the caravan and returns to [email protected] find Tusker and Ruby gone. In a panic, Sam drives down the road for a stretch, here are some people (this writer only to find Tusker off to the side, stand- included) for whom Colin Firth’s ing stock still in a state of confusion. Academy Award-worthy per- In terms of acceptance of his condi- Award-winning Contact Lens Specialists T Optometric Glaucoma Specialists • Therapeutic Optometrist formance was in 2010’s A Single Man tion, Tusker’s approach differs from (Firth’s initial gay role), his first such Sam’s. For example, he didn’t bring his 4414 Lemmon Ave. at Herschel nomination, even though he won the medication with him — not because he Dallas, TX 75219 • 214.522-EYES trophy the following year for The King’s forgot it, but because he doesn’t think it doctoreyecare.com Dr. Allen B. Safir Speech. That said, 10 years later, straight helps him, and it would only serve as a Firth is playing gay again, in Harry reminder of his illness. Macqueen’s Supernova (Bleecker Street), Sam and Tusker keep an audio jour- and this time he could potentially snag nal on microcassettes as another way OUT North his second Oscar. to monitor his waning ability to recall, Pianist Sam (Firth) and author Tusker as well as create an audio scrapbook Texas, 2021! (Stanley Tucci) are a married gay couple of memories. It’s one of the things that who have been together for many years. continues to link them, in the same way Who made Their communication consists of playful that looking at constellations through the cover banter, sweet bickering and loving Tusker’s high-power telescope does. admiration. The scenes with Sam’s family bring a The pair, who live in Sam’s native lightness to the story. There is a surprise England, are on a road trip in their party, and the occasion, which pro- caravan with their dog Ruby. Among vides some much-needed humor, feels Find out in January! the plans they have for this journey are genuine and celebratory. But the bliss is revisiting a campsite from years earlier, short-lived when Sam makes a series of Complete Guide to DFW! as well as a stopover at the home of discoveries pertaining to Tusker’s latest █ Sam’s sister Lilly (Pippa Haywood), her writing project, as well as his plans for Dynamic Relocation Guide husband Clive (Peter MacQueen) and the near future. █ daughter Charlotte (Nina Marlin). A Road trip movies, including the gay- Comprehensive Business Directory of people who want to do recital, marking Sam’s return to concert themed Uncle Frank, as well as Nomad- business with you. performance, is also on the schedule. land, made before we were all sheltering This voyage, however, has more in place, have become increasingly significance than others. Tusker, who popular. If we can’t travel, at least we Hitting Newsstands has been diagnosed with early onset have the pleasure of watching others dementia, is in rapid decline. For all do it. In that way, Supernova fits right January 2021! intents and purposes, this odyssey is into the current zeitgeist. In addition to

An Insider’s Guide: What to do, where to go, what to see! a chance for Tusker to say goodbye to that element of escapism, Supernova also OUT NORTH TEXAS 2020 OUTNTX.COM people who have meant something to brings dramatic realism to same-gender Dustin Lance

BlackTexas Raised him. love and relationships, along with all Texas Proud Of course, the hardest farewell will the heartache that it potentially gener-

The Oscar winner talks about be the one with Sam. Sam, who put his ates. Rating: A- █ life, love and the Lone Star State Dining | Shopping | Attractions | Arts | Entertainment

01.08.21 █ dallasvoice 15 L+S books Not long As history books go, Paper Bullets after their ar- is unique. A small part of this book is Part biography, part history — rival, World biography, though author Jeffrey H. War II broke Jackson seems a bit sedate about his out, and subjects. His portrayal of Lucy Schwob all informative Jersey was all is rather stonily detached, as if all we but aban- need are the barest facts, and they’re not Paper Bullets: Two Artists Who been long since the end of World War I, doned by the particularly complimentary. Suzanne Risked Their Lives to Defy the and life seemed exciting and fresh. British. Tele- Malherbe is treated better but still some- Nazis by Jeffrey H. Jackson (c.2020, They’d known one another since they phones lines what impassively. Neither subject seems Algonquin Books of Chapel Hill) were children, both hailing from well- were cut, fleshed-out enough. $27.95 336 pages. to-do households that supported this soldiers were Happily, the other, more prominent new endeavor. withdrawn, part of this book is more comfortable Pick, pick, pick. In Paris, Lucy and Suzanne enjoyed and the Nazis and exciting to read. That’s where the If you’re patient, that’s how you break cafe society and lives of social leisure, soon noticed. By 1940, German soldiers heart of the tale lies, in which these two big things into very little things. One meeting famous writers and artists, ul- arrived, and Lucy wasn’t taking that astoundingly courageous women fool pebble taken from here, another small timately becoming celebrated as artists lying down. She convinced Suzanne the Nazis through literally homegrown stone removed from there — and over themselves. Lucy also began a lifetime to join her in quiet resistance, and they resistance, and then, once the jig is up, time, you undermine the structure. It’s of political activism, a passion that Su- spent many long hours crafting demor- further befuddle Hitler’s men with the the same for dams, walls, foundations, zanne didn’t necessarily share. alizing messages, furtively leaving them ultimate heel-digging. The last third of people and, in the new book Paper Bul- By 1935, however, politics were where German soldiers were sure to the book almost reads like a months- lets by Jeffrey H. Jackson, it’s the same inescapable, and Lucy started thinking find them — in uniform pockets, on car long Hogan’s Heroes episode, only this is for wartime operations. about a quieter life, partly because Paris seats, on doorsteps, inside books and no sitcom. Twenty-six-year-old Lucy Schwob was becoming intolerant of people like magazines. In the end, if you’re in search of and her lover, 28-year-old Suzanne Mal- her and Suzanne. For her part, Suzanne And then one night during dinner, something biographical, it’s here — sort herbe, had never lived apart from their wasn’t interested in leaving the city. But someone pounded on the door. of. If history is what you want, though, families in Nantes, France. But one day by 1937, she gave in, and they moved “It was,” says Jackson, “the moment and biography is incidental, then Paper in 1920, they were on their way to their to an estate on Jersey, an island in the Lucy and Suzanne had been expecting Bullets is a good pick. █ new lives together in Paris. It hadn’t English Channel. every day for nearly four years.” — Terri Schlichenmeyer

16 dallasvoice.com █ 01.08.21 LIFE+STYLE best bets

SAT 01.09 Dallas Black Dance Theater presents DBDT: Encore!, a program of audience favorites featuring established and emerging choreographers using the Dallas landscape as its stage, with dancers filmed dancing in the East Quarter, Block House and at 2200 Main for the virtual event. Online at 7 p.m.; Tickets are $20 per household, available at DBDT.com.

SAT 01.09 Dallas Public Library’s Queer Reads Book Club will be discussing She of the Mountains, a novel by Canadian trans artist of color Vivek Shraya, at their next online meeting. The book is available on Hoopla (HooplaDigital.com) as an audiobook or an ebook. Registration is required. Online from 6:30-7:30 p.m.; register at DallasLibrary.LibraryMarket. com/events/queer-reads-book- club-0.

SUN 01.10 David Taffet, Patti Fink and Lerone Landis, host Lambda Weekly, the longest- running LGBTQ talk show on the air anywhere, on Sunday afternoon. 1 p.m. on 89.3 KNON-FM and live-streaming at KNON.org.

01.08.21 █ dallasvoice 17 L+S scoop from the second the vomit hit him until we got to his apartment. Luckily, he lived on Rawlins, so we only Cassie Nova had to walk a few blocks. Looking forward … cautiously Finally, he spoke, asking me to get his keys out of his pocket because he refused HAPPY NEW YEAR MY BABIES! We did to put his hands down — like he was trying it; 2020 is over! But I don’t want y’all to think with all of his might to keep a river of up- that, just like that, all our problems will be chuck from flowing down into the crack of over. I am hopeful that 2021 will be a fabu- his ass. I fished out his keys and opened the lous year, but shit can always get worse — door. Within seconds he had his shoes off, so, fingers crossed. My biggest fear is that wallet out and was standing fully clothed in at the end of 2021 we end up saying stuff the shower. like, “Remember when we thought 2020 was He showered for a long time — like, a a bad year, then 2021 came in and fucked us really loooooooong time. I felt so bad for all with IcyHot for lube?!” him, but I also couldn’t stop giggling about My point is, let’s not jinx it. Let’s treat 2021 it. I kept thinking, “He’s gonna have a really like a huge stray dog: “Who’s a good girl?” bad year.” — hoping she lets you pet her but knowing Of course, time after time for the next few at anytime she might rip your arm off. weeks, I would say what a fabulous year I Some people are so superstitious about was going to have, and then I would turn to New Years Day, and I admit, I cook and Lee and say, “How ‘bout you?” eat an abnormal amount of black-eyed For some reason he just kept flipping me peas, just in case. I don’t want to take any the bird. So rude. chances — like there is some Bean Fairy I don’t remember now if I had a better just waiting to grant you good luck if you eat than average year or if Lee had a shitty year. black-eyed peas, and if you don’t, he sends The thing about most New Year’s stuff is that in his goons to fuck up your entire year. it is so easily forgotten — like resolutions. Still not gonna take any chances: “Looky Looking back on that time in my life, I felt here Bean Fairy,” as I take a huge bite of the like I was always broke. But it was also when magical fruit. I had some of the most fun times of my I have a really good friend who believes life. Being young and stupid can be such a that however your new year starts will blessing. affect your entire year. So he is super nice This year I will not make a resolution that I to everyone as soon as the clock strikes 12 will feel guilty about if I don’t follow through midnight on New Year’s Eve. For 24 hours he with, but I will set some goals that I will work seriously tries to be nice and tries to stay in on. I will also eat some black-eyed peas and a good mood, or else, he thinks, he will have hopefully be nicer. I’m gonna help 2021 be a a horrible year. If he had a flat tire on New good year as much as possible. Year’s Day, the year was ruined for him. But Yes, it can always get worse. But it can if he won $5 on a scratcher, the year would also get better. So, if I have anything to say be magical. about it, 2021 is going to be fabulous! I always made fun of him for it — until one Remember to always love more, bitch less year back in the late ’90s. and be fabulous! XOXO, Cassie Nova Picture it: I was the low man on the totem pole as far as being a Rose Room cast member, so I wasn’t working on New Years Eve. And my best friend — let’s call him this week’s solution Lee — decides to party in the Rose Room stairs was watch as the vomit, in slow motion, for the countdown. “Three, two, one — Yay!” and splattered on Lee’s baseball cap, the back of Everybody yells and screams, welcoming in started his hair and all down his back. the new year. down Lee was disgusted — and rightfully so. Then, not 10 minutes into the new year, the stairs He is a bit of a neat freak as it is, so I can my boss at the time asked me to go down- towards only imagine how freaked out he was. Lee stairs to his office because he had some- me. And arched his back in a futile attempt to keep thing he wanted to ask me. So I told Lee I that’s when the sticky, liquidy mess from dripping down would be right back and headed downstairs. everything into his pants. I offered to take him into the (This was in the old Rose Room, so there went into slow employee restroom and clean him up, but was only one set of stairs into it.) motion. he just walked, kinda like Carrie, out of the My boss told me that, basically, I was It looked building and down the street. getting promoted. He said I was going like the prom I, being the good friend I am, followed from working one night every other week scene in Carrie, him. But of course, being the asshole I am, to working two nights a week, Wednesdays but instead of I laughed all the way, randomly yelling out, and Sundays! Lee being cov- “HAPPY NEW YEAR LEE!” That was huge for me! My new year ered in pigs blood He never said a word. Not a single was starting off so good! I was so freakin’ from above, he was “Fuck you” or “Shut up.” He just kept excited, and I couldn’t wait to tell my best doused in vomit from walking, with a disgusted look on his friend. So I thanked my boss, left his office the guy behind him. That face and a fierce determination to get █ browse █ submit and started up the stairs to go back into the guy spewed forth lukewarmness in the home. He just walked at a steady Rose Room to share my great news. form of regurgitated alcohol mixed with pace, back arched, head back and For a more complete Community To submit an item for inclusion in Calendar online, visit the Community Calendar, visit Just then, Lee walked out at the top of the some kind of pink candy. All I could do hands up. His pose never changed Tinyurl.com/dvevents. Tinyurl.com/dvevents.

18 dallasvoice.com █ 01.08.21 VOTE NOW @ dallasvoice.com/rva

Who are the Enter to win a Brightest Stars? DREAM DATE Each year our PACKAGE! readers select $500 CASH their local • Dinner for two favorites in at Cremona our annual Italian Bistro Best Of survey. • A pair of tickets to Uptown Players

Winner announced in our March 26th issue.

Vote for your local favorites in nine categories! VOTING ENDS JANUARY 31st!

01.08.21 █ dallasvoice 19 LIFE+STYLE scene

Robert Gamble from Classic Chassis Car Club

Barbie Davenport Dupree. (Photo courtesy Scotty Kirby) Layla and Rachel celebrate the new year

Israel and Baby Yoda (aka Grogu)

David and Brad build a snowman Big hair, don’t care

Mark and JoJo Do glasses make a girl look smarter?

20 dallasvoice.com █ 01.08.21 q-puzzle Iconic Kiss

Robert Gamble from Classic Chassis Car Club That coat...love it!

Layla and Rachel celebrate the new year

Solution on Page 18

The Cedar Springs Tap House crew Writer Steve Warren Across 49 So-so evaluation 11 Hershiser of baseball 1 Sign of a swollen 51 Dollar bill holder? 12 Susan Feniger member 53 Lesbian parents preparation 6 Oral votes 54 Direction from 13 Foreshadow 10 Site of a Rick Rodgers 19 “Beat it!” Lara Croft raid 55 Den of Bruins 21 Hail Mary path 14 Horny old goat 59 ___ For All Seasons 22 k. d. lang’s “Big Boned in the sky? 60 She shared an iconic ___” 15 Tombstone lawman kiss with 20- and 23 U-turn from WSW Wyatt 22-Across 27 Treating as a 16 Milk go-with 62 Vehicle with treads sexual object 17 Farm gear pioneer 63 Stick in the fridge? 29 Foursome after 18 Author Maupin 64 Name of many desertions 20 With 22-Across, she gay bars 30 Nuts shared an iconic kiss 65 Start of a rhyme 31 Pop vocalist Elliot with 60-Across about a tiger 33 Pyramid and cube 22 See 20-Across 66 Cordial, as a 35 Eve counterpart 24 Shakespeare’s handshake on Lesbos ___ Like It 67 Screen siren Garbo 38 Lush, perhaps 25 What Santa gave, 40 X-Men creator Lee in verse Down 41 Odd but not queer Big hair, don’t care 26 Rudely abrupt 1 Andy Warhol’s ___ 42 Prevailing condition 28 Eye-related (1977 film) 43 Brown on a book cover 32 Sculptor Edmonia 2 Moist ending 44 Liv of _Persona_ 34 Bound gaily 3 Stays in the closet, say 45 Sex scandal reporter, 36 Cell stuff, for short 4 Woman played by e.g. 37 “___ ask you!” Flip Wilson 50 Tall and thin 39 Plants yielding 5 Tuaolo once of the NFL 52 Sign in the stands cinnamon 6 “Uh-huh” 54 Ward on screen 42 The iconic kiss was in 7 A stud leaves it on 56 La ___ aux Folles this 1999 teen romantic a lobe? 57 Rhythmic tune drama film 8 Decision to stop 58 Architecture, to Julia 46 Like Abner, shooting off? Morgan before Viagra? 9 Word on Chinese 60 Spill one’s seed 47 Cunt author Muscio menus 61 Ask on one’s knees 48 Reel, e.g., to 10 Get the bottom line Do glasses make a girl look smarter? Mauresmo

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