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MANAGING EDITOR SENIOR STAFF WRITER STAFF WRITER PROOF READER CONTRIBUTORS

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AFFILIATIONS | MEMBERSHIPS Associated Press - Associate Member National Lesbian and Gay Journalists Association Certified LGBT Business Enterprise Founding Member - North Texas LGBT Chamber Founding Member - National LGBT Media Association September 3, 2021 In This Issue Volume 38 | Issue 18

1825 Market Center Blvd., Ste. 240, Dallas, Texas 75207 | 214-754-8710 | dallasvoice.com NEWS 08 | Moderna tests a new mRNA vaccine for HIV PUBLISHER Leo Cusimano, [email protected]

MANAGING EDITOR Tammye Nash, [email protected] 10 SENIOR STAFF WRITER David Taffet, [email protected] TRAVEL & LEISURE STAFF WRITER Rich Lopez, [email protected] 10 | A week exploring the Amazon opens a whole new world PROOF READER Philip Burton 12 | Queer and safe destinations, cruises and land vacations 12 CONTRIBUTORS Chris Azzopardi, Gary Bellomy, Jenny Block, Joey Casiano, | The Walkway Over the Hudson was inspired by the Katy Trail Jesus Chairez, Lawrence Ferber, Hardy Haberman, Scott 14 Huffman, Lisa Keen, Mark Lowry, Cassie Nova, Josh Robbins, 18 | Expert tips for the perfect solo road trip Howard Lewis Russell, James Russell, Terri Schlichenmeyer, Leslie McMurray, Mathew Shaw, David Webb, Casey Williams

ADVERTISING DIRECTOR Chad Mantooth, [email protected] MARKETPLACE MANAGER Stephen Mobley, [email protected] ON THE COVER NATIONAL REPRESENTATIVE National Advertising Representative BITES FROM OUR BLOG...... 4 Todd Evans, Rivendell Media Inc. 908-232-2021 VOICES...... 6 PLAN YOUR WEEK...... 25 ART DIRECTOR Kevin Thomas, [email protected] MULTIMEDIA Stephen Mobley, Social Media Director ROMEO SAN VICENTE...... 26 Israel Luna, DVtv Video Producer, Host SCENE...... 27 Brad Pritchett DVtv Host | Regina Lyn DVtv Host MARKETPLACE...... 30 18 CIRCULATION DIRECTOR Linda Depriter, [email protected] Cover photo by Jenny Block Design by Kevin Thomas FOUNDERS Robert Moore | Don Ritz

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09.03.21 █ dallasvoice 3 Proud to be one of Addressing urinary issues in pets the top HIV researchers Bites from our blog in the country! InstanTEA: DallasVoice.com

Sean Baugh and the Turtle Creek Chorale

Chorale tickets now on sale Capitol,” Meissner said. “We installed over twice We are PROUD Tickets for the Turtle Creek Chorale’s first big what we were told were necessary — three in concert “Broadway’s Back, Baby” are on sale the overhead air ducts, three stand-alones for to be part of now at TurtleCreekChorale.com, and range from the sides of the bar and one in each of the rest STI testing & treatment at our the LGBTQ+ $35-$85. rooms.” location on the Baylor campus This is the chorus’ first Broadway concert Even after adding the sophisticated air Community! in more than a decade. It will be performed on treatment, Meissner noted, the Hidden Door still PrEP Services provided with Oct. 9 at 7:30 p.m. and Oct. 10 at 2:30 p.m. at requests that customers wear masks when not specialty pharmacy on-site SMU’s McFarlin Auditorium. drinking inside the bar. Masks are optional on Two Dallas natives will join the chorale in the the Hidden Door patio, “which is the largest in Financial & medication two performances: Carter High School alum the Oak Lawn area,” he said. assistance available Major Attaway and Patty Breckenridge. — Tammye Nash — David Taffet Prep & HIV Clinical Trials Access to gender-affirming available Contact us Restaurants play musical chairs health care lowers suicide risk Gender affirmation today to Start with East Hampton Sandwich Company in trans people hormone therapy in Turtle Creek Village. First time there and the As Republicans in the Texas Legislature con- schedule your turkey, bacon and avocado sandwich is divine. tinue to attack transgender youth with legislation Anal Cancer screenings appointment! East Hampton’s sister company is Lucky’s that would limit their access to healthcare and Hot Chicken. They’re opening in the old Ein- their ability to participate in school sports, the We accept most insurance plans! stein’s Bagels location on Lemmon Avenue. If Williams Institute at UCLA School of Law this you want a preview before they open in Oak week released data showing that access to MAKE YOUR IN-OFFICE OR Lawn, they have a place on Gaston Avenue. gender-affirming care is associated with lower Einstein’s is going into the former Starbucks suicide risk for transgender people. TELEHEALTH APPOINTMENT AT location on Lemmon and Starbucks is now in Transgender people who need and receive the Start location on Lemmon. Start’s the one gender-affirming medical care have a lower that’s out of a location in Oak Lawn. prevalence of suicide thoughts and attempts 214.823.2533 — David Taffet than those who need it but have not received it, 3409 Worth St. Suite 710 Dallas, TX according to a new fact sheet released by the Hidden Door goes hi-tech institute, based on the 2015 U.S. Transgender 214.890.1616 Survey and other research. 9301 North Central Expy. Suite 310 in battling COVID with Research shows that an estimated 5 percent Dallas, TX ActivePure system of transgender people who accessed gender-affirming care attempted suicide in the past year Harvey Meissner, president and general man- compared to 9 percent of those who needed ager of The Hidden Door, announced this week care but did not receive it. Research also shows infectiousdiseases.com that the bar has installed ActivePure Technology that certain adverse experiences, such as that, according to the manufacturer, eliminates or ntidc.org discrimination or violence, are associated with more than 99.9 percent of the airborne virus that a higher risk of suicide thoughts and attempts causes COVID 19. among transgender people. In contrast, af- “Over one million ActivePure systems are cur- firming experiences, such as family and social rently in use to help safeguard front-line workers support, are associated with lower risks. in hospitals, such as the Cleveland Clinic, and in — Tammye Nash government buildings, including the Texas State

4 dallasvoice.com █ 09.03.21 Addressing urinary issues in pets Bites from our blog WOOF! DR. JOSH TALKS TO THE ANIMALS elcome (happening Lastly, there are diseases that can lead to on what’s happening with your baby. Some of InstanTEA: DallasVoice.com back, when the pet similar issues, which include diabetes and these issues may be addressed with behav- amigos gets excited another condition called Cushing’s disease. ioral management or environment control, and y amigas! or nervous) These two will typically present increased some may be addressed with medications This column and even frequency of urination, along with increased or special, prescribed diets. Surgery may be focuses on changes in water intake among other symptoms. Cats can recommended to address some causes of urinary issues. routine or also present urinary problems with Idiopathic abnormal urination. Sadly, major therapy may It seems many environment Cystitis (also known as Feline Lower Urinary be recommended if the cause of the issue is parents experi- (Some cats Tract Disease or FLUTD), which is just a related to cancer. ence problems and dogs will fancy term for inflammation of the bladder of Please be aware that multiple tests may with their dogs and cats at least once, when it let you know unknown cause. This is not a well-understood be needed to achieve a diagnosis, and there comes to inappropriate urination. they are mad condition, but we believe it is induced by will be occasions where nothing is found and The term “inappropriate” urination includes at you by stress or anxiety. a “diagnosis of exclusion” is made, which different presentations. The most common peeing where Another condition that can present problems means that because the common causes that things we see are straining to pee, blood in the they are not with urine is, sadly, cancer. The most common- could be tested for were not diagnosed, we urine and increased or decreased frequency of supposed to). ly affected urinary tract organ we tend to see assume a specific condition that cannot be urination. You may also see larger or smaller Some ba- with cancer is the bladder, but different parts tested for is present. Any time you may see quantities of urine produced, leaking urine, bies, especially as they mature, can also suffer of the urinary tract can be affected by different any urinary issues with your dog or cat, make change in urine scent (stronger, foul smelling), from urinary incontinence, just like humans types of cancer. sure you address them with your veterinarian licking privates (penis or vulva) and, with cats, do. We can also see dogs and cats develop Your doctor may suggest different tests to right away! urinating outside the litter box. Please keep in urinary tract infections, which tends to be more find the cause of the inappropriate urination, As always, I am very thankful for your inter- mind that these are usually observed in com- commonly seen with females. usually including urinalysis and blood work at est in reading my Woof column every month, parison to what is normal for each pet. More significant causes of urinary issues the most basic level. Blood work may need and I hope they are educational! Please be There are quite a few different causes of include formation of crystals and subsequently to be more specialized if the basic blood safe out there, get vaccinated if possible, and urinary issues. Some can be temporary and/or bladder stones or grit-like material. These usu- work shows red flags. Your doctor may also be kind to one another. The world is “under- Sean Baugh and the Turtle Creek Chorale easily addressed, and some can be alarming ally cause inflammation of the urinary tract and suggest imaging, meaning radiographs and/ staffed,” as they say, and we need to help and even life-threatening. can also be related to bacterial infections, but or ultrasound, among other modalities. There each other out as much as we can. ¡¡Abrazos, Capitol,” Meissner said. “We installed over twice There are some medications — like steroids they often lead to more serious issues where will be times that a urine culture and sensitiv- mi gente linda!! what we were told were necessary — three in — that can cause increased urination. Some surgery may be needed to resolve the issue. ity may be recommended to see if there are Dr. Josh owns Isla Veterinary Boutique the overhead air ducts, three stand-alones for behavioral problems can lead to inappropriate If stones or grit material get lodged in the ure- specific types of bacteria in the urine and what Hospital at 14380 Marsh Lane, Ste. 110, in the sides of the bar and one in each of the rest urination; these include marking territory by an thra, it can also lead to the inability to urinate, antibiotic option may be the best to use. Addison, next to Tom Thumb. Contact him by rooms.” intact male dog or cat, submissive urination which would be considered an emergency. When it comes to treatment, it truly depends phone at 972-738-1111 or visit IslaVet.com Even after adding the sophisticated air treatment, Meissner noted, the Hidden Door still requests that customers wear masks when not drinking inside the bar. Masks are optional on the Hidden Door patio, “which is the largest in the Oak Lawn area,” he said. — Tammye Nash Access to gender-affirming Rake in the health care lowers suicide risk in trans people As Republicans in the Texas Legislature continue to attack transgender youth with legislation Savings! that would limit their access to healthcare and their ability to participate in school sports, the Williams Institute at UCLA School of Law this week released data showing that access to gender-affirming care is associated with lower suicide risk for transgender people. $ Transgender people who need and receive gender-affirming medical care have a lower off prevalence of suicide thoughts and attempts Must be a Preferred Pet Club member. Sign up in store today. than those who need it but have not received it, 5 It’s easy. STORE COUPON. according to a new fact sheet released by the May be redeemed at Pet Supplies institute, based on the 2015 U.S. Transgender Plus only. One coupon per Survey and other research. household please. No cash value. Research shows that an estimated 5 percent No cash back. Not valid on the purchase of gift cards or prior of transgender people who accessed gender-af- purchases. May not be combined firming care attempted suicide in the past year ® wth any other offer. compared to 9 percent of those who needed OFFER VALID THRU care but did not receive it. Research also shows PET SUPPLIES PLUS September 30, 2021. PLU# 81042 that certain adverse experiences, such as discrimination or violence, are associated with minus the hassle a higher risk of suicide thoughts and attempts among transgender people. In contrast, affirming experiences, such as family and social 25 DFW locations to serve you. support, are associated with lower risks. — Tammye Nash petsuppliesplus.com

09.03.21 █ dallasvoice 5 VOICES OPINIONS FROM THE COMMUNITY

people who aren’t vaccinated against COVID-19 are 29.2 times as likely to be hospitalized due to the coronavirus as Getting boosted for COVID-19 fully vaccinated people. The study also eing over 65, I was able to get But the vaccination, I never doubted I would get found that infection rates among unvac- COVID vaccinations in Janu- phone a booster if they became available. Voi- cinated people were nearly five times B ary. After two shots of Pfizer, I call from la! Even in Florida, boosters are readily those of the fully vaccinated.” [Coronavi- breathed a deep sigh of relief and, over Gerry the available on one of two conditions for rus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) | CDC] time, haltingly returned to “normalcy.” following people my age: either there’s been an “A recent study by Johns Hopkins re- I also began forgetting to take my mask Wednes- eight-month period between one’s sec- searchers found that vaccinated immu- on occasion when I went out — another day was ond shot and the booster, or it’s been 28 nocompromised people are 485 times sign of relief. unexpect- days since vaccination if you are immu- more likely to end up in the hospital or Reality being what it is though, that ed: “I’ve nocompromised. I asked at my local Wal- die from Covid-19 compared to the gen- limited normalcy was short-lived given tested pos- greens if COPD was considered “com- eral population that is vaccinated. Based the arrival of the Delta variant (which itive for promised” and was told yes. That’s one on an estimate by the CDC, about 9 some here in Florida call the DeSantis COVID of the upsides of having been diagnosed million Americans are immunocompro- Deviant). Masking became SOP again. and can’t with it a few years ago, yes? Yes! mised, either because of diseases they That was ok; I have a most fashionable go to din- I filled out what I believed to be the nec- have or medications they take.” [FDA mask made by my neighbor, Fran (and ner tonight.” Our dinner outdoors at my essary paperwork and waited in barely authorizes additional Covid-19 vaccine dos- now a bag to go with it!). “Cheers bar” and restaurant, Isabelle’s contained chaos with others standing in es for certain immunocompromised people, On a Friday, two weeks ago, I attend- Veranda, is a much-loved weekly habit. multiple lines or just “around” the phar- CNN] ed an art opening, masked except when Still, I was able to get a COVID test last macy counter, waiting to be vaccinated. By definition, HIV/AIDS is an immu- eating noshes or sipping wine. I was de- Saturday and even more fortunate to get Then … oops, wrong paperwork! So the nocompromised condition. Treatments lighted to see several similarly-vaccinated “negative” results on Sunday. pharmacy staff completed it. Did I have for certain types of cancer also suppress friends there and left after about an hour. Despite the politicized debate over insurance? Yes. Oops, my insurer, Hu- the immune system. HIV/AIDS and can- mana, preferred not to cover the booster, cer continue to ravage the LGBTQ com- since the government would pay for it. munity. Both Pfizer’s and Moderna’s two- Did I have Medicare B? Yes, as part of my shot sequence are approved for boosters. Humana coverage. No, I wasn’t carrying The CDC is still studying whether boost- FALL the red, white and blue card that attested er shots are effective with the Johnson & to my status. Johnson single-shot vaccine. into Fashion! Social Security number? Yep. And Yes, I am aware of a long list of ob- Get Some with that I, who was lost in the bowels of jections to getting vaccinated. Yes, I un- Fashionable administrivia, was found. derstand citing scientific evidence or an The pharmacy staff was unfailingly emotional appeal supporting vaccina- New Glasses! helpful and solicitous, though I had to tion doesn’t work for everyone. I live smile when the young woman admin- in Florida where Gov. Ron DeSantis has istering shots apologized, saying an “el- outlawed mask mandates, while 21,000+ derly lady” needed to be seen ahead of people are diagnosed with COVID every me. The absence of a wheelchair must day as Florida takes the tragic role of ac- have signified I wasn’t “elderly;” I’ll take counting for one-fifth of all COVID-relat- that as an affirmation of my vitality! ed deaths across the US. I also experienced a Zen kind of accep- I can’t reach those of you who prefer tance of the experience — complications, “personal freedom” and conspiracy lies chaos and all. Instead of irritation or im- over community well-being. For every- patience during the hour I waited, I kept one else: Please, for your own sake and feeling appreciation. We were all in the for the sake of those you love, get vacci- same leaky boat and doing the best we nated if you haven’t already. If you are could. It’s a feeling I want to bottle and vaccinated, get a booster shot if you can. keep with me, as reality continues to be Mask. Socially distance. Take care. just what it is. You’re the only you we’ve got, and THAT is the point of this story, actual- you’re too important to lose to a disease ly. That, and one more thing: a heartfelt that is highly contagious and deadly Award-winning Contact Lens Specialists Optometric Glaucoma Specialists • Therapeutic Optometrist appeal to everyone to get vaccinated, if — and can be avoided by taking basic you aren’t already, and to get a booster precautions. If that last sentence sounds 4414 Lemmon Ave. at Herschel if you can. like a throwback to the 1990s, by the Dallas, TX 75219 • 214.522-EYES “According to recent CDC studies, way, it is. █ doctoreyecare.com Dr. Allen B. Safir

6 dallasvoice.com █ 09.03.21 OPINIONS FROM THE COMMUNITY

09.03.21 █ dallasvoice 7 New tech, new AIDS vaccine SCIENCE NEWS

Can Moderna’s new mRNA vaccine produce the immune response needed to prevent HIV infection?

DAVID TAFFET | Senior Staff Writer [email protected]

he new HIV vaccine Moderna is testing uses the same mRNA technology the pharmaceutical company uses in its COVID-19 vaccine. And the goal is to stimulate the patient’s immune system to create antibodies to the HIV virus. The first phase of human trials will test the vaccine’s safety and see if the vaccine is producing an immune response. An mRNA vaccine uses strands of mRNA to communicate to the immune system what to look for on the exterior surface of the virus that causes AIDS, Moderna is basing its new HIV vaccine on mRNA technology, the same technology used in its COVID-19 vaccine. Neither vaccine includes any prompting the immune system to pro- form of either the coronavirus on HIV. (K.M. Chaudary/Associated Press) duce antibodies that will fight off HIV in the future. The vaccine does not contain mune response. That’s not true for an COVID that is injected into the upper made over the years to create a tradition- living HIV virus and can’t transmit the mRNA vaccine. arm muscle contains a harmless piece of al vaccine to protect against HIV. That disease. “Instead, they teach our cells how to the spike protein found on the surface has proven difficult because the virus in- According to the Centers for Disease make a protein — or even just a piece of the COVID-19 virus. Cells use it to vades and becomes part of the immune Control, many vaccines put a weakened of a protein — that triggers an immune make the protein piece. After the protein system’s T-cells so quickly. By using the or inactivated germ into our bodies response inside our bodies,” the CDC piece is made, the cell breaks down the new mRNA technology, Moderna hopes to trigger an im- explains on its website. “That immune instructions and gets rid of what was in- there will be a great enough immune response, which produces antibodies, is jected, according to the CDC. response before the HIV virus invades what protects us from getting infected Next, those cells display the protein the immune system and succeeds where if the real virus enters our bodies.” piece on their surfaces. The immune sys- previous vaccines have failed. The COVID-19 mRNA tem recognizes that the protein doesn’t A portion of the vaccine has already vaccines include those belong there so it begins the immune re- been tested without using the mRNA made by Moderna and sponse by making antibodies. That way, technology. According to Popular Sci- Pfizer. The Johnson our bodies learn how to protect against ence, 97 percent of participants devel- & Johnson vaccine future infection. oped an immune response but not the and the AstraZen- COVID-19 mRNA vaccines can’t give full response needed to fight off HIV eca (used wide- someone COVID-19. And they don’t infection. ly around the affect or interact with our DNA in any Moderna hopes its trial vaccine will world but still way. The CDC says mRNA never enters produce a broader response to produce being tested the nucleus of the cell, which is where the antibodies needed to prevent HIV in the U.S.) do our genetic material is kept. The mRNA by using its mRNA technology. The not use this is simply a delivery system that the cell technology is also being tested in can- technology. breaks down and gets rid of soon af- cer research in hopes mRNA can trigger The mRNA ter it is finished using the instructions. an immune response to specific cancer

vaccine for A number of attempts have been cells. █

8 dallasvoice.com █ 09.03.21 SCIENCE NEWS

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09.03.21 █ dallasvoice 9 The adventure of a lifetime TRAVEL

A week exploring the Amazon heading out in another launch down the river. We saw monkeys almost imme- opens a whole new world diately — a good omen for the whole week when it came to wildlife spotting. JENNY BLOCK | Contributing Writer We headed back to the boat for lunch, [email protected] then — as I would each day — I read and napped before our afternoon launch, f you’ve ever wanted to go on from which we returned just in time a truly wild adventure, hiking for happy hour and dinner. Then it was and small boat cruising the straight to bed at 9 p.m. I knew that the Amazon with Amazon Na- daily 5:30 a.m. wake-up call was going ture Tours is it. to hit me hard. I’m not going to lie: The very idea terrified me. I’m not particularly athletic or much Sunday of a hiker. I do love an adventure though, Somehow, I jumped up right at 5:30 and when a longtime friend who had when the wake-up call came, downing a taken the trip assured me that I would quick pre-breakfast of oatmeal or grano- fall in love with the Amazon, I decided la and a cup of coffee before heading out to get my malaria pills and yellow fever on the first launch. We bird-watched and shot and head to Brazil. looked for monkeys and sloths. I found After a long day of travel, I arrived in myself transfixed by the jungle. Manaus, Brazil at 3 a.m. on a Friday. I After a full breakfast of the best eggs was met by a driver from the travel com- and manioc pancakes back on the boat, pany who took me directly to Hotel Mil- it was time for our first jungle hike. I lennium Manaus where I would be stay- went covered from head to toe for fear ing pre- and post-trip, and I took myself of bugs. directly to bed. The good news was I had It was hot, but I soon forgot my dis- a whole day before I would be picked up comfort as I became transfixed by trees and taken to the boat that would be tak- and plants like I’ve never seen. The forest ing me on my journey through the rain- floor was impossibly dense, with vines forest. tangled all around. Our guide knew ev- My trip began in earnest Saturday ery tree and leaf and bird and call. After lunch back onboard, we visited a village of 15 families living in what we would call poverty. But as they played football, and our crew joined in, it was hard not to wonder about the “right Author Jenny Block baits a hook while fishing for piranha (above) and hikes through the jungle way” or “best way” to live. (left). (All photos courtesy of Jenny Block) Dinner that night was local whole morning. I was greeted by staff at 6:15 Saturday fish with manioc, followed by our night a.m. in the lobby and met the other The Tucano was enchanting — ab- launch, where we saw a caiman, an guests who would be on the trip. Turns solutely dreamy, simple and classic. I iguana, dolphins, a kingfisher, herons out there were only two of them — a felt like I was in a Hemingway novel. It and the “Amazon chicken.” Then it was hilarious, super smart, well-traveled was full of rich, colored wood with sim- lights out at 10 p.m. sharp, since we were older gay couple. Luckily, we hit it off ple décor and fresh blooms. The rooms warned that the next day’s jungle walk right from the start. The other sched- are small but comfortable and air con- would be a hard one. uled guests apparently had some sort ditioned for sleeping. The shower is a of emergency and had to cancel at the head in the ceiling with a curtain to not last minute. We jumped into the van soak the toilet just beside/beneath it. Monday and headed for the dock where we were The only hot water is in the afternoon. We were up at 5:30 again to drink cof- picked up in a launch and taken to our But tepid water is perfect because it’s so fee, gear up and head to the launch. We home away from home for the week, the hot outside. saw so many monkeys, brown capuchin Tucano. And so, my journey began …. We enjoyed breakfast onboard before and squirrel, right from the start. There

10 dallasvoice.com █ 09.03.21 We were back on the boat for happy had jumped straight out of a safari cat- hour with boiled quail eggs, olives and alog. salted peanuts, followed by catfish for Back on the boat, I had the best show- dinner. Then we took off for another er and most delicious lunch; hiking will night launch where we saw fish-eating do that for you. Later we took a launch bats and nightjars, and more kingfishers. to sand bars. At the first one, we walked TRAVEL The best part of every night was the through the shallow water and squished stars — millions of them. It seemed you our toes in the sand. On the second one, could see the whole Milky Way, plus Ju- the crew played soccer, and I swam in piter and Scorpio, too. Then there are the the Rio Negro with Ed as the sun set and gigantic trees in shadow. It was like am- dolphins swam past. We laughed as one bling through a massive topiary garden of the crew ran towards the flock of birds as we cruised down the river. ’til they took off into the sky. At Happy Hour that night we ate the piranha we caught the day before, all Tuesday fried up and delicious. We pulled off On our morning launch, we didn’t their heads and tails and fins and bit into see any monkeys. But the forest and the the juicy delicious meat. After dinner, it Sunset on the Amazon, as seen from the deck of the Tucano. birds were just spellbinding. The guides was off to bed early for another big day are lots of kingfishers and herons, too. felt amazing and cool, especially back on made bird and rat and frog calls, and the ahead. So far, I had learned about swal- After breakfast, we headed back to the the water when the rain stopped, and the animals answered through the tangle of lows and herons and monkeys and rats. jungle. We hit much more difficult ter- air felt cool even in the sun as the launch jungle on either side of the river. But above all else, I learned to listen. rain that day and had to take a different returned us to the Tucano. After breakfast, we headed out for a path because of a fallen tree. We heard That afternoon it was time for the pretty tough hike with a local guide — rain but didn’t feel it because we were so main event: piranha fishing! I baited my required because the land belongs to the Wednesday protected by the canopy of the forest. hook with raw heart and caught one on locals. It began with a rather steep incline The next morning, the launch brought But then it poured, and we got soaked. my first go, then another later. Mostly to get into the forest. I had to laugh as us to lots of monkeys and then birds and I didn’t put on my poncho though. It was though, the piranha just stole the bait he led us wearing shorts and a polo shirt jungle scenery that made the world feel just too hot; it was better to get soaked. It from my hook. and bare feet while we looked like we ADVENTURE, Page 20

09.03.21 █ dallasvoice 11 Get TRAVEL out!

LGBTQ travelers show how to • Cedar Rapids, Iowa. Wait, what? travel safely this fall Yep, this charming Midwestern town is our top unexpected recommendation. ED SALVATO | Contributing Writer You’ll find historic cultural venues, a Courtesy of the National LGBT walkable entertainment district with Media Association plenty of topnotch live music and theatrical performances, a delectable culinary ust when we thought it was scene and a truly warm welcome. Find safe to hit the road again, trip-planning recommendations at the we were walloped by the destination’s website (TourismCedarRa- COVID-19 Delta variant, pids.com/LBGTQ). the latest plot twist in the 18-month-and-counting pan- Queer cruises and land demic story. The surprising data that fully vaccinated vacations people could transmit the Cruises are coming back, and it may virus came, shockingly, from be surprising to hear that they are prob- Provincetown with a 90 percent vacci- ably the safest vacation you can take. nation rate. Ptown quickly tightened re- According to Randle Roper, CEO at VA- strictions requiring masking at all indoor CAYA, an LGBT+ vacation company, locations and proof of vaccine at all en- “[w]ith cruise lines soon to mandate that tertainment venues — interventions that all guests and crew members must be worked. As of press time, the positivity Provincetown vaccinated, cruise ships will be among rate there is much lower than much of the very safest locations on the planet the rest of the U.S., and it remains one ing how safety measures are being im- — with the entire population vaccinat- of our top recommendations this fall and plemented throughout the community. ed. Making sensible choices like mask- beyond. Puerto Rico is the undisputed LGBTQ ing and social distancing while ashore, Ptown demonstrated a successful re- capital of the Caribbean, enticing visi- cruisers can avoid infection altogether.” sponse — stressing safety yet continuing tors with reliably warm, sunny weather Resort vacations are also safe with sim- to deliver a deeply satisfying experience. and a sincere outreach to queer travelers. ilar universal vaccinations and plenty of Read on for our favorite queer-friend- Despite unfortunate, highly-publicized room for guests to spread out. Remem- ly destinations striving to create a safe attacks on local transgender people, ber, with no children during LGBTQ space for you and strategies for navi- Puerto Rico boasts a visible and vibrant weeks at mainstream resorts, they offer gating the increasingly complex world trans community and nightlife options much more space per adult guest. of pandemic travel. Safe, beautiful and that specifically cater to queer and VACAYA’s big 2021 fall events include fun LGBTQ-friendly destinations, ex- non-binary folx. This helps create a saf- their all-inclusive Mexico Resort vaca- periences and accommodations beckon er, more comfortable environment than tion (Oct 30-Nov 6) and their New Or- whether you seek to recharge your bat- Women ProvincetownForWomen.com) other warm-weather destinations in the leans Cruise (Nov 14-22). In 2022, there teries, deplete them or a little of both. • Fort Lauderdale and Miami remain Caribbean or Mexico, which lack venues are only two trips that still have rooms the beating heart of LGBTQ-friendly for a trans community that mostly lives available as of press time: their Caribbe- Dallas Voice Queer and safe destinations Florida, despite the barbaric state-level in hiding. (Information: Discover Puer- an Cruise (Jan 10-17) and their all-inclu- pandemic response causing the Sunshine to Rico at DiscoverPuertoRico.com/ sive Costa Rica Resort (Jun 5-12). (Infor- DeliVereD! At Dallas Voice, we pride ourselves on delivering in-depth, comprehensive • Provincetown, Mass., is our very State to be among the worst-hit in the Things-to-do/LGBTQ-Travel) mation and booking at MyVacaya.com.) coverage of news and life+style information for the LGBT Texan. We work hard to make sure our news is timely and our features are contemporary, we want own home beyond the rainbow, as sug- U.S. Fort Lauderdale has been world-re- • Philadelphia, Penn., makes for a Not only will queer tour companies you to get them while they’re still hot. That’s why we send our subscriptions FIRST CLASS MAIL. Order your subscription today by calling gested by this year’s Carnival theme. nowned for its authentic and inclusive fun urban weekend getaway. Once the get you there and back safely, “They also 214-754-8710 ext. 110 or mail the form below. Book far ahead for popular weeks vibe for all visitors since 1996. More kids are back in school and the lines at can ensure your money is being spent I want the news while it’s still HOT! Please send my subscription to: (July 4, Bear Week and Carnival), but than 1,000 local businesses have taken the Liberty Bell disappear, you’ll find a with other welcoming, progressive and Name______Address ______Apt.#______we recommend visiting outside of the the Safe & Clean Pledge (Sunny.org/ warm, walkable and LGBTQ-welcoming even queer business and individuals City______State______ZIP______most popular times for a less frantic, Travel-Resources/Safe-Clean-Pledge). city. Find LGBTQ restaurants, safe night- around the world,” according to Robert Phone ______Please enter this subscription to Dallas Voice for: more enjoyable stay. There are diverse Likewise, Miami has implemented the life, engaging events and recommenda- Sharp, founder of Out Adventures (Out- Three months (13 issues) for $65 Six months (26 issues) for $85 LGBTQ-oriented events almost every Greater Miami Travel Guidelines and tions galore at Visit Philly (VisitPhilly. Adventures.com). “This is even more One year (52 issues) for $130 Please charge to my credit card Mail to: weekend through New Year’s Eve. Destination Pledge accessible from the com/LGBT/). Pro tip: Try to schedule important,” he continues, “when plan- Card Number______Dallas Voice Publishing 1825 Market Center Blvd. Ste. 240 Expiration Date______(Information: Provincetown Business destination’s homepage (MiamiAnd- a half day at the Barnes Foundation ning travel to countries that are known Dallas TX 75207 CVV Code______Dallas Voice subscriptions are Signature______mailed FIRST CLASS each Friday. 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12 dallasvoice.com █ 09.03.21 Visit their site to read about the New Choose LGBTQ-welcoming accommo- Year’s Eve trips to Thailand and Cuba dations and, in 2022, the Iceland Winter trip, and We’ve heard far too many stories of four back-to-back Croatia small group queer guests receiving a frosty welcome cruises, which are starting to sell out. (or worse) when checking into a hotel R Family Vacations is one of our top or AirBnB. These are our top choices for recommendations for planning an in- LGBTQ-friendly resources for accommo- TRAVEL credibly fun and satisfying tour or cruise dations where you can truly relax and be (big ship and river cruises) in the com- your authentic selves: pany of other queer travelers and allies. • MisterBnB (MisterBandB.com) in- You don’t even have to have children to cludes one million LGBTQ-friendly list- join their trips. ings in 200 countries and is primarily In 2022, R Family offers land tours in geared towards gay men. Thailand and Ireland, an LGBTQ group • FabStayz (FabStayz.com) proudly on board a cruise in Alaska, and a mag- offers accommodations inclusive of all ical all-queer full-ship-charter Uniworld the letters of our ever-growing acronym. river cruise in Northern Italy among oth- VACAYA has several LGBTQ cruises scheduled • Orbitz Pride (Orbitz.com/ er trips. (Information: RFamilyVacations. cruise and safari providers, as well as advocate when trips are cancelled or re- lp/LGBTQ-gay-travel-Hotels?p- com.) destinations and hotels and who under- scheduled. Best of all clients use travel waLob=wizard-hotel-pwa-v2) lists Expert LGBTQ travel advisors are stand innately the needs and concerns of advisors, like our top picks here, for no LGBTQ-friendly accommodations. standing by to help you. And they’re LGBTQ travelers. They dedicate them- additional fees: • Booking.com (Booking.com) is roll- free! selves to both LGBTQ travel safety and • Kelli Carpenter, who also co-owns ing out an LGBTQ certification program, Even in this uncertain time, you can keeping up with the latest, ever-shifting R Family Vacations (Kcarpenter@tzell. including live training and ancillary ma- enjoy enriching and joyful travel op- pandemic-era guidance, health proto- com). terials, for their hotel partners over the portunities in LGBTQ-friendly environ- cols, openings and closings. They know • Jonathan Alder, Travelstore USA next year. Look for the “Proud Hospitali- ments in a way that maximizes safety how to get the best value for your time ([email protected]). ty” label on listings. and minimizes risk. You just have to plan and money, and, thanks to their global • Sandie Anders, Bursch Travel (Sand- NYC-based Ed Salvato is a freelance a little more. connections, they can often score VIP up- [email protected]). travel writer, instructor at NYU and the We highly recommend using an grades for you at hotels, on cruise lines, • Giuseppe Giulio, Gay Friendly Italy University of Texas at Austin’s NYC LGBTQ expert travel advisor who keeps on tours and more. ([email protected]). Center, and an LGBTQ tourism market-

up to date on LGBTQ-friendly tour, They are also your most important ing specialist. █

Dallas Voice DeliVereD! At Dallas Voice, we pride ourselves on delivering in-depth, comprehensive coverage of news and life+style information for the LGBT Texan. We work hard to make sure our news is timely and our features are contemporary, we want you to get them while they’re still hot. That’s why we send our subscriptions FIRST CLASS MAIL. Order your subscription today by calling 214-754-8710 ext. 110 or mail the form below.

I want the news while it’s still HOT! Please send my subscription to: Name______Address ______Apt.#______City______State______ZIP______Phone ______

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09.03.21 █ dallasvoice 13 It’s not always bigger in Texas TRAVEL

The Walkway over the Hudson offers a dramatic view of the Hudson Valley (David Taffet/Dallas Voice)

Did I mention I hate heights? down from more than a story or two Heights make my knees feel above the ground, my knees turn to jelly.) like jelly And this bridge deck spans the wa- terway at a height of 212 feet above the DAVID TAFFET | Senior Staff Writer Hudson River. That’s more than 20 sto- [email protected] ries in the air. Completed and open to the public fter Dallas turned an old in 2009, Walkway Over the Hudson is rail line into a park — stable and safe. The bridge was renovat- the Katy Trail — it ed, fortified and rehabilitated. Despite a spawned imitators wind blowing up the river that day, the around the country. path was solid and secure — no vibra- Among them is tion; no swaying; no real reason to feel New York’s Rail queasy. Trail. When The bridge is located 85 miles north completed, it will stretch more than 700 of New York City in the foothills of the miles. I walked one of the most magnif- Catskills, and the surrounding scenery icent couple of miles of Rail Trail just is rural. On the east side of the river is as the leaves were beginning to change the historic town of Poughkeepsie. Park color. and enter the walkway at 61 Parker Ave. The Poughkeepsie-Highland Rail- On the west bank of the river, the road Bridge, built in 1886, is the oldest walkway takes you to Highland, a town surviving steel cantilever bridge in the about 15 miles north of Newburgh and world. And I was going to walk a mile- 15 miles south of Kingston. There’s and-a-half over this rusting, 125-year- plenty of parking close to the entrance old span. (Did I mention how much I to the walkway in Highland. don’t like heights? I mean, when I look The most stunning manmade feature

14 dallasvoice.com █ 09.03.21 you’ll see is the Mid Hudson Bridge, just glacier just 13,000 years ago. On the west about a mile south of the walkway. But side of the river are the foothills to the it’s the natural beauty of the mid-Hud- Catskill Mountains, and on the east are It’s not always bigger in Texas son Valley that’s the real reason to visit. the foothills to Massachusetts’ Berk- TRAVEL The Hudson River was carved by a shires. New York’s most majestic mountains, the Adirondacks, begin north of Albany more than 100 miles from the Walkway. These mountains near the walkway are just tree-covered, rolling hills in comparison. Fall is the best time to walk across the Hudson, because as the leaves turn col- ors, the hills turn magnificent yellows, reds and orange. On my last visit, the trees were just beginning to turn. Why go? There’s really nothing else like it. At this crossing, the river is more than a mile across and continues to be navigable for another 80 miles, just north of the state capital, Albany. Getting there: Take the Metro North commuter train from Grand Central Station to its terminus in Poughkeepsie or Amtrak’s Empire Corridor to Albany that stops in Poughkeepsie. The station is directly below the Walkway. Stewart Airport in Newburgh is the closest airport and is 25 miles from the Highland side of the Walkway. By car from either

the north or south, take Route 9W. █

09.03.21 █ dallasvoice 15

Head OUT on the highway TRAVEL

Expert tips for the perfect solo road trip

MIKEY ROX | Contributing Writer Instagram @mikeyroxtravels

ixteen months ago, I sold almost everything I owned, hopped in a van outfitted for living and hit the road. I had done a few short solo road trips in the past, but this was different: This was permanent. I didn’t have a place to call home anymore. Out there Mikey Rox has spent the last year-plus seeing the country in his specially-outfitted van. (Photos courtesy of Mikey Rox)

18 dallasvoice.com █ 09.03.21 was where I lived now. less costly levels of coverage that you can Rest up and start early wise to know where you’ll end up so you Nearly a year and a half later, I’ve purchase to fit your individual needs. I hate being rushed, and I hate driv- know where you’re staying the night. learned a lot about nomad life and solo Make sure you know where all your ing long distances, but I often can’t help You don’t want to travel all day just to road tripping specifically, especially un- vehicle’s tools — including the spare the latter if I have to get from A to B in pull into a city or town with no vacan- der the limiting parameters of a pandem- tire and its change kit — are located, a short period of time. To allow myself cies. You’ll be forced to get back on the ic. Since sharing is caring, here are my too. I was once driving on New York’s ample breaks on the road, I leave as early road and drive farther, and probably out expert tips on how to plan the best road back roads late at night with no cell ser- as I can with sufficient rest from the night of your way in the dark, to find a safe trip in the year 2021 AC (After Covid). vice when I blew a tire. I spent an hour before. I don’t drive more than two hours place to sleep. That’s not ideal on any frightened in the middle of nowhere straight without taking a reprieve, and I trip, and certainly not while traveling Prepare your vehicle frantically searching my Volkswagen for try to find interesting stop-offs along my queer and solo. the tire-changing tools before locating it route that will allow me to stretch my Before embarking on any road trip in a hidden compartment. It’s also crit- legs and take my mind off driving for a Add fun stops along the way that will take you more than a few hours ical that you learn how to change a flat bit. from home, make sure your vehicle is yourself if you don’t already know how. Your start time plays an important role To break up the monotony of driv- prepared. Change your oil, top off your Don’t be embarrassed to ask a friend or in how efficiently you’ll get to where ing (it’ll get tiresome if you’re traveling fluids, check your wipers and rotate or family member to show you. If you want you’re going. If I’m departing from a mundane highways with equally unre- upgrade your tires; the last thing you to DIY it, YouTube has plenty of videos, metro area, I always leave after morn- markable scenery), I choose a few attrac- want on this mobile vacation is frustrat- some specific to your vehicle’s make and ing rush hour to avoid beginning-of-day tions to stop at along my route. ing and expensive car trouble. If you’re model. Or, if you prefer a little eye candy traffic that will automatically stress me I love taking an hour or two to explore not a card-carrying AAA member, con- with your manual labor tutorials, let one out. Your road trip should be fun; don’t a small town’s shops and cafes, peruse an sider becoming one. (Road trips not- of the hot bois of TikTok educate you. put yourself in a position to get flustered antique mall (great for picking up mean- withstanding, it’s great coverage to have Flares also are important to have on as soon as you leave your driveway. ingful mementos of your travels), or visit in an emergency.) Because I’m on the hand for two reasons: so other vehicles historic sites, national monuments and road full time now, often in remote areas, can see your vehicle in the dark and to Have a destination in mind parks. I have an annual National Parks I have the premier membership plan that alert emergency services that you may pass, available for $80 at USParkPass. provides me with full benefits, including need assistance. A police officer will stop Some road trippers love the element com, which grants access to more than up to 200 miles of towing — an import- to help if they see flares marking your of surprise on their adventures and end- 2,000 federal recreation sites that fall un- ant perk if the nearest service center is a vehicle’s location. ing up where they end up. Not me; I like der the jurisdictions of the National Park long distance away. But there are lower, to have a plan and a set destination. It’s Mikey Rox has spent the last year-plus seeing the country in his specially-outfitted van. (Photos courtesy of Mikey Rox) HIGHWAY, Page 22

09.03.21 █ dallasvoice 19 ADVENTURE, From Page 11

Preparing some fresh fish for dinner. very big and our place in it very small. After breakfast we headed out for our Thursday jungle walk. There was a steep incline On our last day, it was too rainy and that I couldn’t have climbed without windy and there was too much lighten- the help of my faithful companions. ing for our morning launch so we slept There were massive trees and a vine that late — 6:30 a.m.! After breakfast we went looked like an anaconda. It was so hot out on the launch and, thankfully, the that I was dripping from every pore, but rain stopped almost immediately. After the scenery was worth every drop. lunch, we went for another launch and That afternoon, we took the launch to it was amazing. We saw four caimans visit a local family that builds boats and and three sloths, along with floating carves items from wood. I bought a min- houses and the incredibly magical spot iature boat and a dolphin and a bracelet where the rivers meet. You actually see made of seeds. We visited their dogs and the distinct line between the two. Happy pigs and chicken and rooster. Pineap- hour featured an amazing guitarist and ples grew from their massive plants and singer while we enjoyed caipirinhas and a vast diversity of fruit trees filled their pre-dinner bites. After a glorious dinner, primitive property we said good-bye to the crew. Since we Back on the boat, we gathered for a would have an early morning with only dazzling sunset and the most incredible a quick breakfast before disembarking. empanadas which I washed down with Guaraná Antarctica, my favorite Brazil- ian soda. After dinner, we prepared for Friday our final night launch, but lightening It was very hot aboard the Tucano for cancelled our plans. our final breakfast after such a remark-

20 dallasvoice.com █ 09.03.21 headed for city tour in the cool of the van’s air conditioning. We went on an inside tour of the opera house and then a driving tour of the city, with a stellar stop at the Mer- cado Municipal where there was the most incredible ar- ray of fish. I drank Açaí with honey and swooned at the market’s offerings, wishing I had a kitchen and a houseful of guests to cook for. I headed back to the hotel for dinner, just in time to experience the wildest of storms with thunder and lightning the likes of which I’ve never experienced.

Saturday I caught my flight home with my head spinning and my heart already longing to return to the Amazon. It was

able — dare I say, lifechanging, even — more magical than I could have ever week. The food was excellent, and our imagined, and I know there are still so guide, Ed, and the crew were the most many secrets left to discovered beneath kind and giving people. I only wished the dark water, deep in the jungle and I could speak Portuguese so we could beneath the tangle that covers the forest have talked more. I loved being on the floor. Tucano. It felt like home immediately, One thing I know for sure, the rain and I honestly could have stayed aboard forest and the debt and care we owe it for weeks more. will never be just theoretical for me ever

But we were off the boat by 7:30 a.m., again. █

09.03.21 █ dallasvoice 21 HIGHWAY, From Page 19 Service, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, the road the next day. In lieu of those Forest Service, US Army Corps of En- options, I look for bathhouses, cloth- gineers, Bureau of Land Management, ing-optional hot springs (I love a good and Bureau of Reclamation. Some of naked time), and LGBTQ campgrounds these sites require entry fees of $30 or for an opportunity to unwind with more, which allows the annual pass to like-minded folx. You’ll be surprised at pay for itself in a few visits. how many of these exist when you start When setting your GPS, type in na- searching for them. I can almost guar- tional monuments to see what’s avail- antee you’ll find at least one of these able along the way. I recently traveled destinations within four hours of your to Birmingham and Montgomery, Ala., home. and discovered the Freedom Riders These places are often much less ex- National Monument, one of the Nation- pensive than mainstream destinations al Park Service’s newest installations. as well. For instance, I stayed in my van I would have driven right past it if I at the Oz Campground in Unadilla, Ga., hadn’t done the advance research. Plus, for three nights this spring for around I got a little civil-rights history lesson $170 total, and I popped into the El Do- during my stop — something we can all rado Hot Springs outside of Phoenix, use in this day and age. Ariz., last year for $30 a night. Day pass- es are even more affordable if you don’t Make it a little gay plan to overnight. Pop in for a little R&R and be on your merry gay way. █ With gay bars dwindling in number Mikey Rox is an award-winning journal- across the country it can be difficult to ist and LGBT lifestyle expert whose work find one in less populated areas, and it’s has been published in more than 100 outlets not the best decision to get tipsy in an across the world. Connect with Mikey on In- unfamiliar area when you have to hit stagram @mikeyroxtravels Mikey Rox says always make time to stop and admire the scenery.

22 dallasvoice.com █ 09.03.21

24 dallasvoice.com █ 09.03.21 GAY AGENDA

LISTEN HERE Are you a fan of live music? Well Arlington’s Levitt Pavilion is the place to be the weekend of Sept. 3-5, offering up a weekend full not only of live music but free live music, starting Friday night with the Grammy Award-winning legendary Texas band Brave Combo, with opening act Meach Pango. The fun continues Saturday night with The Texas Gentlemen and opening act Josh Fleming. And it all wraps up Sunday night with Gina Chavez and opening act Almost Jaded. So grab your lawn chair, pack your cooler and head to the Levitt Pavilion, 100 W. Abram St. in downtown Arlington, with concerts from 7-9:30 p.m. each evening. Presented by Downtown Arlington.

HELP OUT HERE Donna Dumae and The United Court of the Lone Star Empire present the 25th annual Friends Help Friends Show: A Salute to Great Broadway Shows Saturday night, Sept. 4, at 7 p.m. Proceeds from the show benefit AIDS Services of Dallas. If you can’t make the show, you can donate to the cause online at The reigning Miss Gay Texas State Candi Carroll and Miss Gay Texas State at Large Gloria Devine will end their reigns and crown their DallasCourt.org, via Cashapp @$dallascourt successors this weekend at the 2022 Miss Gay Texas State and State at Large Pageant, beginning Friday night, Sept. 3, at 8 p.m. with and via Venmo @Dallas-Court. the contestant review and continuing Saturday and Sunday nights, Sept. 4 and 5, at 7 p.m. with the competition — all at The Urban Cowboy Saloon, 2620 E. Lancaster Ave. in Fort Worth. SEE GREAT DRAG HERE Kelexis Davenport hosts Ascend to the Heavens: PLAN YOUR WEEK The Rose Room Rising Star Pageant on Thursday, Sept. The Gay Agenda is now color-coded: • Sept. 4: Book signing 9, at The Rose Room inside Red for community events; blue for arts Doug Gault and his husband Joey Luong, • Through Sept. 5: Jurassic World: S4, 3911 Cedar Springs Road. The pageant and entertainment; purple for sports; green owners of Cufflink Art, a small, contemporary The Exhibition will feature Blue Valentine, and contestants gallery and fine art book shop in the Near You’ve seen the films. Now experience them for nightlife and orange for civic events will compete in presentation, swimsuit, talent, Southside of Fort Worth, host Hugh Nini in real life at Jurassic World: The Exhibition. and holidays. evening gown and lip-sync. The fun starts at and Neal Treadwell, authors of Loving: Educational, immersive, interactive and most of 10 p.m. A Photographic History of Men in Love all, awesome, the Exhibition will thrill audiences 1850s-1950s on Saturday, Sept. 4, from 5-7 of all ages as they come face to face with SEPTEMBER TALK ART HERE p.m. The authors will give a short presentation these mighty and sometimes vicious creatures. • Sept. 3: Name and gender The Amon Carter Museum followed by a Q&A and book signing. Cufflink Grandscape, 5752 Grandscape Blvd., The change workshop of American Art presents its Art, 120 St. Louis Ave., #149, Fort Worth. Colony. Now extended through Jan. 2. Lambda Legal discusses what the process Virtual Artist Talk, featuring CufflinkArt.com. looks like in Texas to secure state and federal Natasha Bowdoin, Thursday, • Through Sept. 5: Wicked identity documents. Lawyers can receive CLE Sept. 9, from 6-7:30 p.m. via • Sept. 4-6: Trick the Mini Fest Dallas Summer Musicals is back with a credit. Meeting via Zoom. LambdaLegal.org. Zoom. Bowdoin will talk with TRICK the Mini FEST brings DJs, drag shows return of the musical Wicked, a look at curator Shirley Reece-Hughes about her vision and Lil Miss Trick Contest that ends with a what happened in Oz from a different • Sept. 3-5: Miss Gay Texas State for the exhibit In The Night Garden. Tickets are crowning with a Tiara, cash and more. Saturday angle. The Music Hall at Fair Park. and State at Large Pageant $10 per person and free for Carter members, from 5 p.m.-1 a.m.; Sunday and Monday from DallasSummerMusicals.org. Contestant review on Friday at 8 p.m. followed available at CarterMuseum.org. Registration is noon-1 a.m. at 4015 Cedar Springs Road. by two nights of the 2022 Miss Gay Texas State required to access the Zoom link. and State at Large Pageant at 7 p.m. at Urban • Sept 8-9: Rooftop Cinema Cowboy, 2620 E. Lancaster Ave., Fort Worth. • Sept. 5: Super Clasico USA Series of outdoor films at Dallas Heritage Club America vs. Chivas de Guadalajara, a Village, 1515 S. Harwood St. Sept. 8: In the • Sept. 4: Friends Help Friends Mexican soccer rivalry that dates to 1926 at Heights. Sept. 9: Love & Basketball. Donna Dumae and the United Court present 4:30 p.m. at the Cotton Bowl in Fair Park. Tickets at RooftopCinemaClub.com/ the 25th annual Friends Help Friends Show: A FairParkTix.com. heritagevillage. Have an event coming up? Email your Salute to Great Broadway Shows at 7 p.m. at information to Managing Editor Tammye The Hidden Door, 5025 Bowser Ave. • Through Sept. 5: Buddha, Shiva, • Sept. 8-Oct. 16: Tiny Beautiful Things Nash at [email protected] or Senior Lotus, Dragon An online advice columnist uses her personal Staff Writer David Taffet at taffet@ • Through Sept. 4: Together The Kimbell Art Museum presents Buddha, experiences to help her readers who pour their dallasvoice.com by Wednesday at 5 p.m. The MAC presents its 23rd annual membership Shiva, Lotus, Dragon: The Mr. and Mrs. John hearts out to her. Adapted for the stage by for that week’s issue. D. Rockefeller 3rd Collection at Asia Society, a Nia Vardalos. In rep with Cake Ladies. Dallas exhibition, Together, in its new home in The Look for extended listings online at collection of sculptures, bronzes, ceramics and Theater Center, Wyly Theatre. ATTPAC.org. Cedars. The MAC, 1503 S. Ervay St. DallasVoice.com The-MAC.org. metalwork. Kimbell Art Museum, 3333 Camp Bowie Blvd., Fort Worth. KimbellMuseum.org.

09.03.21 █ dallasvoice 25 Romeo San Vicente DEEP INSIDE HOLLYWOOD

Into the cyberfuture with for it to take you on a bad trip this holi- Alexandra Billings day season.

We are huge fans of trans actor Alexan- dra Billings. She’s the reason we didn’t Growing up with BeBe bail on The Conners. And it’s exciting to Drag superstars are not born fully watch a performer come into their own formed, bursting out of the crib ready for on screen, which is how it seems to be their close-up. It takes time to develop going for her. Next, she’ll step into a role one’s artistry. And that is also the case in the upcoming Amazon original se- with BeBe Zahara Benet, who was the ries The Peripheral, starring Chloe Grace first-ever winner of RuPaul’s Drag Race, Moretz and Jack Reynor (the boyfriend in a moment when no one had heard of in the bear costume in Midsommar). such a competition and when the latest Based on the novel by legendary au- young crop of queens were entering ele- thor William Gibson, the plot involves mentary school. mysterious cyberspace-based employ- As it happens, the cameras were on ment, gaming and possibly murder Marshall Ngwa, aka BeBe, early in life, — none of which will really make sense growing up in Cameroon and then until we watch it. Our favorite detail: France before settling in Minneapolis Billings’ character, a major role as a and developing a beloved drag persona. mysterious detective, is transgender, as And it’s this 15-year-long accumulation was the character in the original novel. of archival footage that forms the fasci- So three cheers for giving trans roles to nating backstory of BeBe’s stardom in trans actors. Alexandra Billings the new documentary Being BeBe. Created by Scott B. Smith, starring We love the prospect of peeking back- people we enjoy, we’ll be watching. the big screen again with The Sixth Reel. for it to roll out into the world soon after. stage to watch a legend in progress, and Co-written and co-directed by Busch we’ll be ready for the doc’s premiere this Treasure hunting with Charles and Carl Andress, the latest project stars MK Ultra co-stars Jen summer at Los Angeles’ Outfest. After Busch as a movie memorabilia collector, that, it’ll surely sashay its way into the- Busch and Margaret Cho in obsessed with classic Hollywood. When Richards in CIA drug drama aters and streaming platforms before The Sixth Reel a friend’s death reveals the existence of Did you know that in the 1950s and year’s end. Legendary playwright and drag per- the final reel of a classic horror film that ’60s the CIA engaged in a program called Romeo San Vicente’s hot vax summer re- former Charles Busch (Psycho Beach was thought to be lost, a race to cash in Project MKUltra, and it was designed to quires proof of vaccination and stylish masks. Party, Die, Mommie, Die!) forged his commences with a variety of ruthless develop interrogation techniques with own path with the off-Broadway The- and comedic schemes. LSD, brainwashing and psychological atre-in-Limbo company, and, after cre- Along for the ride are Limbo alum Julie torture — and that they used human this week’s solution ating those comedy mainstays, he didn’t Halston, Tim Daly and stand-up queen subjects? rest on that success. That’s a longwinded Margaret Cho. The film will get its world Well, it’s yet another slice of American way of saying he’s back and ready for premiere at this summer’s Outfest. Look history they don’t teach you in school, and now there’s going to be a movie about it. ★ ALL NUDE! • BYOB! • ALL NUDE! • BYOB! • ALL NUDE! • BYOB! ★ ALL NUDE! • BYOB! It’s called MK Ultra, from writer-director Joseph Sorrentino (the documentary Coyote), and it stars Anson Mount (Star Back to Trek: Discovery) as a psychiatrist whose professional and ethical boundaries are School Party! tested when he becomes involved in the project. Jason Patric and Jaime Ray New- Tues, Sept 7th • 10pm-2am man (Little Fires Everywhere) co-star, as does one of our favorite ascendant trans actors/filmmakers, Jen Richards, who’s CLUB STALLIONS appeared in Clarice, Mrs. Fletcher and Call or Facebook for Membership Info. Tales of the City, and is an Emmy nominee █ browse █ submit 972-997-1493 • 11311 Harry Hines #203 for Her Story.

ClubStallionsVIP For a more complete Community To submit an item for inclusion in

ALL NUDE! • BYOB! Already in post-production, with an ALL NUDE! • BYOB! • ALL NUDE! • BYOB! • ALL NUDE! • BYOB! BYOB! • NUDE! ALL • BYOB! • NUDE! ALL • ComeBYOB! • see RyanNUDE! ALL Calendar online, visit the Community Calendar, visit ★ ★ expected release of late December, look Tinyurl.com/dvevents. Tinyurl.com/dvevents.

26 dallasvoice.com █ 09.03.21 SCENE PEOPLE, PLACES AND FACES Travel: Summer Vacation

Heather and family in Port Aransas

Vacation in Tulum

What happens in Vegas, stays in Vegas Celebrating summer in Puerto Rico

09.03.21 █ dallasvoice 27 Vacation shenanigans on the beach in the Maldives Rainbow hearts in Disney Springs The magic of Hawaii

Vacation in the mountains A Galveston state of mind

Hot boy summer in Austin Fun in sunny Cancun Chris in Austin Eric and Mark celebrating 35 years together!

28 dallasvoice.com █ 09.03.21 Will Grandmother PUZZLE | Come to the Wedding?

Rainbow hearts in Disney Springs The magic of Hawaii

Solution on Page 26 Across 48 State of polar bears 10 Word between 1 Cotton props in 50 Lessened, as anxieties partners’ names Showboat 53 The African Queen 11 Theatrical illumination 6 Prick author 12 Nouveau ___ 10 Pomo ___ Homos 54 End of the description 13 Brian of figure skating 14 Hamlet’s words before 55 Source of the 21 Hull section “to be” description 22 Cash for an actor 15 Sex, crudely 60 Hollywood Squares between parts? A Galveston state of mind Justin in Montana 16 Casino call regular 26 Starting from 17 Greek island 62 Kopay’s team 27 Sweet opening? 18 Disengage a bra hook 63 Collar kind 28 Not outstanding 19 Callie Torres, et al. 64 Writer Wystan Hugh 29 Revolting 20 Homophobe whose 65 Coward of 30 Louise’s partner granddaughter is The Scoundrel 31 Guilty, to Perry Mason marrying a woman 66 Top 34 Plot unit 23 Start of a description 67 Successful cross 36 Wear a lot of perfume, of 20-Across dresser’s cry? e.g. 24 Baltic port 68 Kind of child 37 Humorist Bombeck 25 Phone sex initiator 69 Where a cobbler puts 39 Rug-rat corrals 27 Oral secretion the tongue 40 Lubricated 31 Cola choice 43 Without detail 32 “Cowboys Are Down 46 Ready to Wear actor Frequently Secretly 1 Frida’s mouth Stephen Fond of ___ Other” 2 East of Eden son 47 “Beats me” 33 Scores with 3 Icon letters 49 Trojan hero Megan Rapinoe 4 Hit high, like 50 Ike’s opponent 35 Fairy tale bad guy Mauresmo’s balls 51 Rim job? 38 More of the 5 Family of James 1 52 Wonder Woman description 6 Caviar source star Carter 40 More of the 7 Patty Hearst’s 53 Synthetic fiber brand description SLA name 56 Nala or Simba 41 Pastoral poem 8 Verdi work adapted 57 Problem for skin 42 Singer Norah’s father by John 58 ”More” singer Perry 44 Word after pro 9 Grable and Parton 59 You may go down 45 Women’s rights on one Eric and Mark celebrating 35 years together! Getting out of the sun in Azerbaijan Josh in Boulder advocate Equi 61 Chef Traci ___ Jardins

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09.03.21 █ dallasvoice 31