The great () outdoors LGBT Outdoors offer exercise, adventure by Tammye Nash, Page 20 2 dallasvoice.com █ 01.22.21 toc01.22.21 | Volume 37 | Issue 38 7 headlines departments CAROLE ANN BOYD, DDS, PC JONATHAN VOGEL, DDS █ NEWS 4 InstanTEA 6 A new day in America 6 News Call today 214.521.6261 7 New at the Resource 19 Voices 4514 Cole Ave, Ste. 905 Center’s clinic 20 Life+Style DrBoyd.net 7 8 Coping with difficult times 25 Best Bets 11 App-propriate 27 Cassie Nova

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01.22.21 █ dallasvoice 3 DallasVoice.com/Category/Instant-Tea instan Biden signs executive order since she won the gold in 2018, but again (de- TEA protecting LGBTQ people servedly) ascended to the throne by winning the title. (2017 U.S. champion) made against discrimination an exquisite journey back to the podium to nab Within hours of being inaugurated, President the bronze, and two-time — and reigning — had finalized 17 executive actions, gold medalist ,15, battled puberty and including one to prevent workplace discrimina- a 3-inch growth spurt to earn a very respect- tion on the basis of sexual orientation or gender able pewter medal (4th place). identity. Biden’s office had previously described But then there is silver. that order as one that “builds on” the U.S. Shimmering silver. Supreme Court’s ruling last summer in Bostock Dallas’ own Amber Glenn skated like a war- v. Clayton County, declaring that Title VII of the rior and beat the odds to command the silver Civil Rights Act protects LGBTQ people from medal. discrimination in the workplace. (Glenn, the 2014 Junior National champion, Biden also signed order stopping funding for made a huge splash last year when she came Trump’s border wall, cancelling the Keystone XL out to Dallas Voice in a story that was reported Pipeline, rejoining the Paris Climate Accord and internationally.) stopping the U.S. from withdrawing from the Well-known for a fierce work ethic, Glenn, World Health Organization. More such orders 21, has battled the good and the bad since are expected in the days to come. 2014 to claim her own place on the senior level. —Tammye Nash Last night the bad became beautiful when she slayed the field with her emotionally shattering free skate to “Rain in Your Black Eyes” (original Courtesy of the National LGBT song by Ezio Bosso, musically reimagined and Media Association choreographed by the glorious ). Update from U.S. National — Coy Covington Championships The U.S. figure skating world was rocked last Rachel Levine tapped to night as the finals of the Ladies Competition aired live on NBC. Things were shaken like a become first out mad martini with a series of ups and downs, Senate-confirmed official spins and salchows, loops and lutzes. Rachel Levine, who Pennsylvania secretary has played lady-in-waiting of health guided her state through the corona- President Joseph R. Biden

4 dallasvoice.com █ 01.22.21 chosen for the senior health role, which is the in U.S. history. In the Obama administration, No. 3 leadership position at the Department of Dylan Orr at Department of Labor and Aman- Health & Human Services. da Simpson at the departments of energy Biden hailed Levine in a statement and defense made history as the first openly announcing her nomination, which builds transgender presidential appointees, but their on several openly LGBTQ appointments, roles didn’t require Senate approval. Trump, including Pete Buttigieg as transportation whose administration was marked by open secretary and Ned Price as State Department hostility to the transgender community, had no spokesperson. openly transgender appointments. No openly transgender person has ever — Chris Johnson | Washington Blade sought or obtained confirmation by the Senate

█ pet of the week / MIDNIGHT

a hug. He’s an active, curious dog who would do best in a home with an active owner who will take him out for daily exercise and play. He can be a bit timid meeting new people, but as soon as he sees the bag of treats in your hand, his whole face will light up. and he’ll do his very best to impress you. Midnight is looking for a home where he can be the only dog with adults and older teens. Midnight is super playful but also enjoys a good cuddle and head scratch. Midnight is waiting for you at the Jan Rees-Jones Animal Care Center in Dallas. To request an appointment to meet him, please visit spca.org/adopt.

In an effort to reduce the potential for spreading COVID-19, the SPCA of Texas’ shelters, clinics, mobile adoption events and mobile wellness events remain closed to the public until further notice. Adoptions are available by appointment only. Adopters will Rachel Levine need to submit an adoption inquiry form in order to begin the virus, has been tapped to become assistant federal official. tele-adoption process and schedule an appointment to complete secretary for health under the Biden admin- The Biden transition team on Tuesday, the Meet Midnight, a 4-year-old, 46-pound Chow mix who is going to be a delightful, loyal pal to whomever is lucky enough to adopt the adoption. Browse our available animals at spca.org/findapet istration, setting her up to become the first day before Joe Biden’s inauguration as pres- and visit spca.org/dogadopt to inquire about a dog or spca.org/ openly transgender U.S. Senate-confirmed ident, announced in a statement Levine was him. Midnight does a wonderful sit and is working on shake, although sometimes he can’t fight back his urge to turn it into catadopt to inquire about a cat.

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01.22.21 █ dallasvoice 5 A new day, a new administration President Joe Biden spent his Rights Act of 1964 as prohibiting work- first day issuing executive orders, place discrimination on the basis of sex- ual orientation and gender identity.” including one protecting LGBTQ Sharon McGowan, national legal di- people against discrimination rector of , said her orga- nization is “thrilled” with the the ex- ecutive order establishing the reach of LISA KEEN | Keen News Service Bostock. She noted that, as recently as of [email protected] Sunday, the U.S. Department of Justice under Trump issued a memo, saying that emocrat Joe DOJ’s Civil Rights Division would “con- Joe Biden is sworn in as the 46th president of the by Chief Justice John Roberts Biden was sworn tinue to abide by … the multiple statu- as Jill Biden holds the Bible during the 59th Presidential Inauguration on Wednesday, Jan. 20, as in Wednesday, tory and constitutional protections that their children Ashley and Hunter, and newly-inaugurated Vice President Kamala Harris, far right, watch. (AP Photo/Andrew Harnik, Pool) Jan. 20, as the may exempt religious employers and next president of educational institutions from the rule Grennell as acting director of national in- from Washington, D.C., came at a small the United States, announced in Bostock, or applications of telligence, a Cabinet-level position. 21-gun salute ceremony he staged for ushering in a Bostock’s reasoning to other statutes.” Television coverage showed Buttigieg himself at Andrews Air Force Base be- much-improved For McGowan, “We thought it was im- sitting with his husband Chasten on fore departing for his home in Florida political climate for LGBTQ people and, portant on Day One to recalibrate” the the inaugural platform. Both men were prior to Biden’s inauguration. many might say, the nation. federal government’s interpretation of wearing what appeared to be KN95 According to a White House pool re- In one of his first acts in office Wednes- Bostock “and have a definitive statement masks underneath black cloth masks, port, as Trump arrived, the sound speak- day, President Joe Biden signed several that the Biden administration will fully a combination that helps mitigate the ers played openly gay performer Elton executive orders, including the order implement Bostock.” build up of moisture on cloth masks on John’s “Love Lies Bleeding” (which in- “Preventing and Combating Discrimi- In addition to the executive order cold days, cludes the lyric, “Oh, it kills me to think nation on the Basis of Gender Identity or building on Bostock, President Biden Biden had already announced an- of you with another man”). Sexual Orientation.” signed 16 other executive moves within other first on Jan. 19, appointing an As Trump finished his impromptu re- The Biden LGBT executive order hours of his inauguration, many of them openly-transgender person, Dr. Rachel marks to the small gathering and began “builds” on the U.S. Supreme Court’s directly reversing actions by Trump. Levine, to serve as assistant secretary of walking to the plane, the speakers blared decision last June that holds that Title VII Among those were orders stopping the the Department of Health and Human the Village People hit song, “YMCA,” of the federal Civil Rights Act protects U.S.’s withdrawal from the World Health Services. Levine, who has been serving often referred to as the “gay national an- employees from discrimination based on Organization, rejoining the Paris Climate as Pennsylvania’s health director, be- them.” And as Air Force One lifted off sexual orientation and gender identity. Accord, mandating the wearing of masks comes the first out transgender person to the runway, the sound system was play- A press release on the President-Elect’s on federal property, cancelling the Key- be nominated for a position that requires ing the last words of Frank Sinatra’s “I website before inauguration did not elab- stone XL Pipeline and halting funding for U.S. Senate confirmation. According to Did It My Way.” orate on what “build” means but said the Trump’s border wall and more. the HHS website, the Office of the Assis- Biden’s inaugural ceremony includ- executive order “will also direct agencies Just prior to Biden’s swearing in tant Secretary for Health, “oversees the ed singing the National to take all lawful steps to make sure that Wednesday at noon, U.S. Supreme Court Department’s key public health offices Anthem, followed by Jennifer Lopez federal anti-discrimination statutes that Justice Sonia Sotomayor administered and programs, a number of Presidential singing a medley of “This Land is Your cover sex discrimination prohibit dis- the oath of office to now-Vice President and Secretarial advisory committees, 10 Land” and “America the Beautiful,” crimination on the basis of sexual orien- Kamala Harris, the former U.S. senator regional health offices across the nation, taking the chance in the middle of her tation and gender identity, protecting the from California and a strong and long- and the Office of the Surgeon General performance to declare triumphantly in rights of LGBTQ+ persons.” time supporter of LGBTQ equality. Her and the U.S. Public Health Service Com- Spanish, “One nation, under God, indi- According to the statement, “All ascension marks the first time a woman missioned Corps.” visible with liberty and justice for all,” persons should receive equal treat- has held one of the two highest positions Ruben Gonzales, executive director of before also adding a sliver of her own ment under the law, no matter their in the U.S. government, and also the first LGBTQ Victory Institute, called Levine hit, “Let’s Get Loud.” gender identity or sexual orientation. time a person of color has held the posi- “one of the foremost experts on respond- A female fire department captain from The Biden-Harris Administration will tion of vice president. ing to this pandemic,” adding that the South Fulton, Ga., delivered — and si- prevent and combat discrimination on On Thursday, Jan. 21, a U.S. Senate LGBTQ community is “united in standing multaneously signed for deaf observers the basis of gender identity and sexual committee took up Biden’s nomination with her for the confirmation fight ahead.” — the Pledge of Allegiance. And a high- orientation. To begin this work, Presi- of openly-gay Pete Buttigieg to serve The LGBTQ Victory Institute oversees light of the day came when 23-year-old dent-elect Biden will sign an executive as secretary of Transportation. His ap- a Presidential Appointments Initiative Amanda Gorman, the youngest inau- order that builds on the U.S. Supreme pointment marks the first time an open- that puts forward LGBTQ candidates for gural poet ever, who recited her poem, Court’s decision in Bostock v. Clayton ly LGBTQ person has been nominated positions throughout the administration. “This Hill We Climb.” County and ensures that the federal gov- to serve in a Cabinet position, although One of the more bizarre moments of In his inaugural address, Biden ac- ernment interprets Title VII of the Civil Trump in 2020 did appoint Richard outgoing President Trump’s departure NEW DAY, Page 13

6 dallasvoice.com █ 01.22.21 Resource Center expands patient services

Dr. Courtney Sherman describes “If we can prevent HIV, that’s responsible.” But her approach to patient care she said she felt she was working with people DAVID TAFFET | Senior Staff Writer who thought there was [email protected] “something wrong with gay men’s brains, [that] ourtney Sherman all they want to do is have said she’s a wom- sex.” en’s health prac- To Sherman, sexuality titioner by trade is a basic human activity. specializing in She had trouble under- sexual health. She standing the stigma and holds a doctor of equated it to her own sex- nursing practice uality. “Because I’m on degree. And the day we spoke she had birth control, I’m a slut?” passed her American Academy of HIV she said. “Human beings Medicine credentialing exam so is now have sex — regardless of considered an HIV specialist and has age or gender or sexual added AAHIVS to her long list of aca- orientation.” demic credits. She is now spending half Sherman, by the way, her day at the Nelson Tebedo Clinic in is married to a man and the PrEP clinic and half her time at Re- is the mother of four. Her source Center’s LGBTQ Primary Medi- dining room table is their cal Care office on the health campus on Zoom home school, with Reagan Street. her husband working Sherman said she learned primary from home and oversee- care in a military town and then got into ing their children’s edu- public health. She opened Tarrant Coun- cation. ty’s PrEP clinic but for the first couple of Sherman is passionate years wasn’t allowed to talk about it. She about expanding access wasn’t sure how it should be run, but she to PrEP and sexual health Courtney Sherman knew keeping it a secret wasn’t going to among the LGBTQ com- work. munity. She said some pa- how she deals with insurance claims for ing to expand its primary care practice “I had no idea what I was doing,” she tients come to her on the side so their pri- transgender patients: Most medical of- as well as get people on PrEP to protect said. “I ran into opposition. I discovered mary care physicians don’t know they’re fices would simply accept a rejection of themselves from HIV. To do that, the the LGBT community and learned about on PrEP, “like it’s dirty… .” coverage by an insurance provider, but health clinic now has bilingual staff. She the negligence of the medical community.” Sherman warned that her advice Sherman has found ways to work around encouraged trans men and women look- The opposition to prescribing PrEP comes with a little bit of sarcasm. But, that. She said her first diagnosis of breast ing for competent medical care to make seemed related to the idea that it gave she added, Dr. Marc Tribble, who will be cancer was in a man, so she learned early an appointment and try their services. gay men freedom to have sex without working with her as a primary care phy- to look for what’s unexpected and expect When it comes to the roll out of the vac- worrying about contracting HIV. Sher- sician in Resource Center’s health clinic the insurance company to pay what’s cine to protect against the coronavirus, man said she couldn’t see the difference a few days a week, offers more tradition- covered. Sherman called it very piecemeal and between PrEP and taking the vaccine to al doctoring consultation for those who But if a trans woman, for example, is said Resource Center would love to be- prevent HPV that’s spread sexually and prefer that. She said their styles compli- having prostate problems, she going to come a vaccine distribution point. causes cancers. ment each other well. treat the problem and deal with the in- As to her style, she said she’s also a She said from the beginning she ap- One bit of Sherman’s earliest medi- surance issues. patient: “I always try to be real and hu- proached PrEP from the standpoint, cal experience has translated well into Sherman said Resource Center is look- man.” █

01.22.21 █ dallasvoice 7 Getting through a start running, but that’s not necessary to improve mental health. “Walk difficult time around the block,” Tay- lor said. “That will in- Enduring the pandemic and their patience is short; loneliness and a crease oxygen in the attacks on LGBT rights requires feeling of being trapped are common. blood and aid dopamine “People are getting depressed,” she receptors in the brain.” taking special care of yourself said. While making time And while vaccines are starting to for physical activity DAVID TAFFET | Senior Staff Writer get distributed, more people than ever is something that can [email protected] are getting sick and the death rate is in- be done alone or with creasing. “All of that affects us in a neg- someone, Taylor said to or many people in the ative way and I’m a positive person,” be sure to make time for LGBT community, the Marcum said. healthy relationships. new year came this Dr. Chris Taylor of Taylor Counseling “Healthy relationships week with the inaugu- in Dallas had a number of suggestions are a fundamental part ration of Joe Biden and to help get through the next few months of the human condi- Kamala Harris as pres- as vaccine distribution improves, more tion,” he said. ident and vice presi- people are vaccinated and the rate of He said everyone dent. And with those sickness and death decreases. needs meaningful rela- inaugurations, the assault on LGBTQ First, Taylor suggests setting realistic tionships based on trust. rights from the top should come to an goals rather than making lofty resolu- Isolation can lead to de- end. tions. “We tend to come in with big, au- pression, which leads to So what better time to set goals and dacious goals, he said. a decreased quality of resolutions than the beginning of a new As an example, he noted that during life, so for good mental era? the pandemic many people have spent health, make time for Of course, we’re still in a pandemic, time cooking and put on weight. He family and friends. and that has caused stress in everyone’s suggested realistic goals might be to Taylor also suggests life. But counselor Candy Marcum is cook healthier and lose five pounds Candy Marcum, top and Dr. Chris Taylor, above practicing gratitude. optimistic. over the next month. That’s easier to Keep a list or call some- “When the Pfizer vaccine came out, I attain than the larger goal to lose 50 allowed to feel frustrated. We’re all one to say thanks. And remember, if felt a lot of hope,” Marcum said. “I was pounds eventually. struggling. you’re feeling depressed, stress or other happy to see how many people got in “Or if your goal is to travel the world, His next suggestion is to get a good symptoms during this difficult time, it’s line to get it.” And although she called this might be your year to save,” he con- night’s sleep. Taylor said uninterrupt- OK to tell your family or friends and ask the actual rollout a debacle, she said she tinued. ed sleep is important for mental health. for help. expects distribution to improve over the Next, Taylor said, be kind to your- A healthy diet and relieving anger and Finally, he said, his counseling cen- coming weeks. self and be kind to others: “Everyone stress are all aided by good sleep. ter works with a nonprofit organiza- But in her practice, Marcum said, she is stressed. It’s OK to be where you are Then, Taylor said, get out and get tion called OK To Say and supports it has seen quite a bit of what she described right now.” moving: “Five to 10 minutes of sunshine with one dollar from every counseling as claustrophobia impacting people People are feeling stuck and feeling a day boosts metabolism.” session. OK To Say fights the stigma of emotionally. People are irritable, and sad, and that’s ok, Taylor said; you’re Many people make the resolution to mental health. █

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01.22.21 █ dallasvoice 9 10 dallasvoice.com █ 01.22.21 still have no For Ezra Reynolds, who started using guarantee Plume last year, the process has been that their easy and convenient way to get to get health care hormone treatment without jumping App-ropriate providers through any hoops. will even un- “I was very open and honest,” he re- Making health care easier to derstand their called. “I was like, ‘Hey, I was on testos- health needs, much less not discriminate terone previously for five years. Here’s access for trans men, women against them. That’s why technology my dose.’ They basically took all the in- companies aimed toward the trans com- formation I gave them and ran with it. MATHEW SHAW | Contributing Writer munity like Plume exist. It was a really relaxed process.” [email protected] Plume is the first health technology The process for Reynolds includes company built by the trans community, scheduling a consultation, and the doc- f the almost for the trans community, according to tors get all information online through a 28,000 respon- Plume’s head of growth Soltan Bryce. third party app which enforces HIPAA dents who par- There are more than 1.4 million trans law. In addition, Reynolds said he likes ticipated in the folks in the U.S., yet they are one of the Soltan Bryce that the doctors are honest with him 2015 U.S. Trans- most underserved communities when about his testosterone hormone levels. gender Survey, it comes to access to reliable healthcare, He also noted that the pandemic has “I’m glad that they’re going to tell 33 percent re- Bryce said. an isolating impact that makes seeking me something in a positive manner,” he ported a nega- Guided by a team that is mostly trans, care difficult and has driven many to said. “They’re not going to allow you to tive experience while seeing a healthcare Plume provides access to gender-affirm- medication sharing. But, “Even in less take too much hormones if they don’t provider within the previous year, and ing hormone therapy through a smart- pressing times, up to 50 percent of trans think it’s necessary.” 23 percent did not see a doctor when phone. folks report both delaying care or not For many, the journey to expressing they needed to out of fear of being mis- “At Plume, we talk a bit about being seeking care out of fear of discrimination one’s authentic self as a trans person in- treated as a transgender person. for trans people, by trans people. And or harassment,” he noted. volves navigating a gender-normative Even though a federal judge last year we think that’s really important because Plume is an app that can be download- medical system, Bryce said. blocked the Trump administration from there’s a shared understanding about ed onto a smartphone for a $99 a month “There’s very few medical services enforcing a rule allowing healthcare the dearth of quality, accessible and con- subscription fee. The patient then fills out there that engage with people’s practitioners to discriminate against venient care for the trans community,” out some forms on the app to create an self expression, identity and personal trans patients, trans men and women Bryce said. individualized plan. APP, Page 13

01.22.21 █ dallasvoice 11 12 dallasvoice.com █ 01.22.21 PROUD TO BE A VITAL NEW DAY, From Page 6 knowledged the difficulty of the times Capitol, reportedly seeking to find and PART OF THE FIGHT — the coronavirus pandemic, loss of kill Vice President Mike Pence, House jobs and the rise of political extremism Speaker Nancy Pelosi and others Trump which we must confront and we will de- had identified as obstacles to his contin- AGAINST COVID-19! feat.” uation in office. In addition to the loss of more than Biden’s inaugural address urged 400,000 lives and millions of jobs to Americans toward unity and “truth,”

COVID-19 over the last 12 months, the and ending “this uncivil war.” █ nation on Jan. 6 witnessed a riotous mob, © 2021 Keen News Service. All rights incited by Trump, break into the U.S. reserved.

APP, From Page 11 well-being as both gender-affirming gender affirming care can be,” he ex- care does and as Plume does,” he not- plained. “The ability to express your ed. “We’ve heard numerous patients plumage.” stories that have been rife with exces- Plume is also the only company that sively long wait times, administrative offers virtual care 24/7. In under a year hurdles, [and] providers that are unfa- since its launch, it is available to more miliar with treatment.” than 60 percent of the trans community, Bryce added that Plume is ven- according to a press release. ture-backed, meaning it is funded by “What we really hope to do at Plume venture capital firms that make an in- is to take that access to care and expand Want to vestment in them. In addition, Plume it as widely as we can,” Bryce said. has added hundreds of patients a “Accessing care itself is the really diffi- participate month to its service. cult thing to do. It can be the difference STI testing & treatment at our in a vaccine “Plume symbolizes what the best of of life or death for some people.” █ location on the Baylor campus PrEP Services provided with study? specialty pharmacy on-site Financial & medication assistance available Prep & HIV Clinical Trials available CONTACT US AT Gender affirmation hormone therapy vaccine.study Anal Cancer screenings @ntidc.org We accept most insurance plans! MAKE YOUR IN-OFFICE OR TELEHEALTH APPOINTMENT AT 214.823.2533 3409 Worth St. Suite 710 Dallas, TX 214.890.1616 9301 North Central Expy. Suite 310 Dallas, TX

infectiousdiseases.com or ntidc.org

01.22.21 █ dallasvoice 13 Obituary

ander, could high kick to the heavens. He loved raising money for the community and was always there with a helping hand, a kind word and, sometimes when needed, a raised eyebrow. He loved collecting anything related to Garfield or Lucille Ball, and he had one room dedicated to Lucille Ball, his favorite entertainer, and had her VitaMeataVegaMin skit down to a T. Michael was known for his quick wit, beautiful smile, his com- passion and his love of life. The love of Michael’s life was his partner and husband of 33 years, Bill Lindsey. Together they entertained all over Texas and the U.S., raising money for various groups and individ- uals. The two of them founded the Miss Gay Texas State and Miss Gay Texas State at Large pageant system, which focused on quality female impersonation like other pageant system but also on raising money for the LGBTQ and HIV/AIDS commu- nities. They also loved to travel, especially to Maui. Michael is survived by his husband Bill, his sister Barbara Richmond and too many friends to name. (You know who you are.) Michael Champion — nurse, husband, brother, friend, and A Celebration of Life will be scheduled at a later time. In lieu mentor — passed away Tuesday, Jan. 12, due to COVID-19. of flowers, Bill asks that donations be made to the Miss Gay Michael was born in Plymouth, Ind., on Aug. 15, 1954. He Texas State Pageant System via their Venmo account at Miss- received his bachelor’s degree in Nursing and was director of GayTexas-State. nursing for the Park in Plano. Michael loved being a nurse and If you prefer to mail a check, please make check payable to the Miss always put his patients first. Gay Texas State Pageant System and mail it to Anna Dickerson, Michael was a natural entertainer; his alter ego, Sable Alex- 12050 High Meadow Court, Dallas, Texas 75234.

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01.22.21 █ dallasvoice 17 18 dallasvoice.com █ 01.22.21 Phone 214-754-8710 █ Fax 844-313-2282 █ commUNITY 1825 Market Center Blvd., Ste. 240, Dallas, Texas 75207 voices Hours: Weekdays 9 a.m.–5 p.m. • dallasvoice.com 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, J. Denton Bricker, Joey Cassiano, Jesus Chairez, Alicia Chang, D’Anne Witowski, Lawrence Ferber, Hardy Haberman, Scott Huffman, Lisa Keen, Mark Lowry, Steven Monacelli, Cassie Nova, Josh Robbins, Mikey Rox, Howard Lewis Russell, James Russell, Terri Schlichenmeyer, Leslie McMurray, Mathew Shaw, Brandi Amara Skyy, Mark Stokes, Jef Tingley, Time for a brave new day Casey Williams ike hundreds of thousands ed from And where there is no justice, there is advertising of others around the coun- slaves and no peace and there is no light. Chad Mantooth Advertising Director █ 131 Stephen Mobley MarketPlace Sales █ 123 L try — around the world — on raised by But when we demand that they pay National Advertising Representative Wednesday, Jan. 20, I watched the in- a single the price, we have to make those de- Rivendell Media Inc. 908-232-2021 auguration of Joseph R. Biden Jr. and mother mands for the right reason. It has to be Kamala D. Harris as president and vice can dream justice, not vengeance. Vengeance is art too easy, too common. And vengeance Kevin Thomas Art Director █ 119 president of the United States of Amer- of becom- ica. And yes, I got teary-eyed more ing presi- leads only to destruction. Hate only multimedia than once over the course of the day, as dent only breeds more hate. Stephen Mobley Social Media Director █ 123 Brian Kennedy Video Producer I am sure many others did, although no to find No, I am not saying we should just Israel Luna Video Producer/DVtv host doubt many were teary-eyed for very herself re- forgive and forget. This is no time to go Brad Pritchett DVtv Host different reasons. citing for all lollipops and rainbows. Brandi Amara Skyy DVtv Host It was, for me, such a profoundly one.” We can’t let misplaced sympathies Regina Lyn DVtv Host proud moment to watch as a woman And she and some people’s self-serving calls for circulation of color was sworn in as vice president challenged us to be what we should be: unity (now that they are no longer the Linda Depriter Circulation Director █ 120 and to see the joy and pride on her face “And yes, we are far from polished, far majority) distract us from justice. Jus- founders as she swore to well and faithfully dis- from pristine, but that doesn’t mean we tice is necessary. Robert Moore █ Don Ritz charge the duties of the office on which are striving to form a union that is per- But we still live in the midst of a affiliations/memberships she was about to enter, so help her God. fect. We are striving to forge our union pandemic that has already taken the Associated Press - Associate Member It gave me such a huge sense of relief with purpose. To compose a country lives of more than 400,000 people in National and Gay Journalists Association to hear President Biden speak, coher- committed to all cultures, colors, char- this country alone, more than 2 million Certified LGBT Business Enterprise ently and in full sentences, of hope and acters, and conditions of man.” worldwide. And the pandemic is far Founding Member - North Texas LGBT Chamber Founding Member - National LGBT Media Association unity and actual duty to country. It was I most sincerely hope we can meet from the only danger we face. So we so refreshing to hear him pledge to be her challenge. But to do so, we must don’t have time for infighting and pet- truthful and honest, truth and honesty truly take to heart this part of her mes- ty partisan bickering — and that goes having been in such short supply in the sage: “There is always light, if only we both ways. White House over the last four years. are brave enough to see it, if only we’re Democrats control the House, the There was just so much to celebrate brave enough to be it.” Senate and the White House. But that over the course of the day. But how can we “be the light”? doesn’t mean that Democrats get to But for me, in a day full of high- We don’t even all agree on what that just run roughshod over the Republi- lights, one of the biggest and brightest means. Part of the answer lies in Pres- cans. That will accomplish nothing. was 23-year-old Amanda Gorman, the ident Biden’s words when he talked That’s where bravery comes in. We © 2020 Voice Publishing Company, Inc. All rights reserved. youngest inaugural poet ever. With her about how we have to come together have to be brave enough to put our Reprint rights are available only by written consent of the publisher or managing editor. poem, “The Hill We Climb,” I believe as a country, how we have to learn to country first, above partisan politics Dallas Voice is published every Friday. Additional copies may be purchased for $1 each, payable in advance at Ms. Gorman has shown us the way we disagree without going to war against and above our personal needs and the Dallas Voice office. Dallas Voice may be distributed only by Dallas Voice authorized independent contractors must move forward. each other, how we must seek unity. wants. That, I believe, is where Trump or distributors. No person may, without prior written She reminded us of what we have Don’t get me wrong. I am not sug- and his whole administration came up permission of Voice Publishing, take more than one copy of each Dallas Voice weekly issue. been: “We’ve braved the belly of the gesting that we “unify” with the peo- drastically short. And that is where the Subscriptions via First Class Mail are available: Three months (13 consecutive issues), $65. Six months (26 beast. We’ve learned that quiet isn’t al- ple who stormed the U.S. Capitol on Biden administration and all of us can- consecutive issues), $85. One year (52 consecutive issues), not fall short. $130. Contact Dallas Voice at 214-754-8710 x123. ways peace. In the norms and notions Jan. 6 or with those in Congress — or Paid advertising copy represents the claim(s) of the of what just is isn’t always justice.” in the White House — who helped plan We must be brave enough to be the advertiser. Bring inappropriate claims to the attention of the publisher. Dallas Voice reserves the right to enforce She reminded us what we can be: and stage and incite that attack. They light. █ its own judgments regarding the suitability of advertising copy, illustrations and/or photographs. “We, the successors of a country and a must face the proper consequences for Tammye Nash is managing editor of Dal- Unsolicited manuscripts are accepted by email only. time where a skinny black girl descend- their heinous actions. That is justice. las Voice. Her opinions here are her own. To obtain a copy of our guidelines for contributors, send a request by email to [email protected].

01.22.21 █ dallasvoice 19 The great — gay — outdoors

Facebook group currently has more than 3,200 “family members,” which is thrilling since we only recently created it in April of last year. We ask that those who join our Facebook groups simply respect each other and our community culture. You can find the group at Facebook.com/groups/ LGBTOutdoors. What do you think are the main advan- tages of participating in the group? The chance to socialize; opportunities for physical fitness activities....something else? Nearly any doctor will tell you that physical activity of any sort is good for you, even better in the fresh air of a wild landscape. Most doctors will also tell you that having a sense of community — a sense of belonging — is vitally important Denver Ambassador Brian, friend of LGBT Outdoors Sarah, founder Justin Yoder and creative director Patrick Thompson hiking in Colorado. as well, especially in a pandemic. Getting back to nature, always played a big role in my life. I grew dent. We give our ambassadors a decent Even if most interaction is virtual at the up on a farm in Missouri and have always level of freedom to choose and host event the LGBTQ way moment (Facebook groups, virtual happy loved what the outdoors had to offer. After activities, as the terrain, outdoors culture hours, etc.), we’ve been overjoyed to see in 2010, I wondered if there and local natural offerings vary from chap- the conversations and connections taking ou don’t have to go to a gym to was still a place for me in the outdoors. ter to chapter. place. Our primary mission is to connect get the exercise you need to stay For a long time, I didn’t see one. So I How does one become a member? the LGBTQ+ community with the outdoors fit and healthy. In fact, some- started an Instagram account to feature Are there rules or dues involved? We — and to each other. We want to be a Y members of the LGBTQ community who times you can get more exercise — and currently don’t have a “membership.” We safe place for people to genuinely feel a have more fun — if you head outdoors. also loved the outdoors. I wanted to show curate a lively family/community in our part of something, away from the chaos That’s the idea behind LGBT Outdoors, the world that the outdoor space isn’t just private Facebook groups. We have a main and noise of the bars and clubs. for straight white guys — and that the a group founded by Dallasite Justin group and local groups for each of our Do you offer a variety of events to accom- LGBTQ+ community was equally capable Yoder to give LGBTQ people an outlet chapters. modate people of varying levels of abili- of exploring, enjoying, and tackling the In order to protect those who are not “out,” ty/physical fitness? Do you guys mainly that combines outdoor adventures and rugged wilderness. camaraderie. we keep our groups private and screen do activities in the warmer months, Nearly immediately, the response from It began about a year-and-a-half each person who wants to join. Our main or do you have winter activities, too? LGBTQ+ people was through the roof. ago when Yoder started an Instagram About a year-and-a-half later, we still get account featuring LGBTQ people who messages saying, “I thought I was the love the outdoors. It grew quickly only one!” Or “I’ve finally found my tribe!” and now has six chapters around the This over-the-top response clearly told us country. While the COVID-19 pandemic that the outdoor world was a place that slowed the organization’s gatherings, many LGBTQ+ people long for — and that Yoder said he hopes things will be a way to help facilitate connection was ramping up again soon with the group’s needed. first national gathering planned for Is this a local organization? Or is it state- September. wide or national with local chapters? Yoder took a few minutes recently to While we are homegrown and based answer some questions for Dallas Voice here in the DFW Metroplex, we currently and introduce his organization to the have six chapters across the U.S. DFW, broader community, Houston, New York, Chicago, Denver and — Tammye Nash Orange, Calif. Each chapter is led by a vetted LGBT+ Outdoors ambassador. Our ambassadors are incredibly passionate Dallas Voice: How did LGBT Outdoors about the outdoors and have diverse get started, and how long has it been backgrounds from IT, the U.S. military, around? Justin Yoder: The outdoors has police — there’s even a neuroscience stu- Fort Worth Ambassador Kenneth fishing at Rainbow Ranch

20 dallasvoice.com █ 01.22.21 Amber and Katie exploring some trails around Dallas

Do you have a schedule of upcoming tennis shoes and a water bottle in hand. events? I’ll answer these all together, as Amateur hiking doesn’t require any costly the answers sort of blur together. While gear or months of training. getting started last year, we did success- As we continue to grow (and create a larger fully have a small handful of in-person support base), we intend to offer many events — all with Covid-compliant social more in-person events to satisfy the distancing, extremely limited capacity, needs of all ability levels to the best of our masks, etc. We’ve hosted varied events capability. But we always want everyone — from hiking and kayaking in DFW, to feel welcome, no matter their experi- fishing in Houston, national park visits in ence level. Colorado and Wyoming, hiking in New And once Covid is safely pushed back, we York and even a volunteer trash clean up are open to nearly all outdoor activities. in California. While we have our core structure, LGBT+ The pandemic has obviously slowed things Outdoors is very much a community-driv- down as we can’t do what we want to do en machine. Feedback and input from safely. “the fam” is both wanted AND needed. That being said, we do like hiking as a fre- When the community says, “Hey! Let’s quent event. Hiking has a very low barrier do THIS!” then our ambassadors will take of entry. Nearly anyone can do it with █ OUTDOORS Page 24

Fort Worth Ambassador Kenneth fishing at Rainbow Ranch Kayaking at White Rock Lake

01.22.21 █ dallasvoice 21 The right wellness tools

SLEEVES & SUPPORTS Every athlete — from the pros to the weekend warriors — twists an ankle or pulls a muscle or something at some point. And if you, like me, are getting a little older, you might be finding out that you don’t have to be an athlete or even doing something even remotely strenuous to twist that ankle or pull that muscle. And there are all kinds of wraps and sleeves and supports available to help when that happens or to help keep it from happening. But Incrediwear’s wearable anti-inflammaory garments offer more than just support; they help you heal. Incrediwear offers everything from sleeves for arms, legs, knees, elbows, even body sleeves to fit around your abdomen, as well as braces for hips and Incrediwear knee sleeve backs. They also have shorts, socks, A few products to make your shoes, basketball shoes, hiking shoes, anxiety, relief from pain and more. gloves, performance pants and more, all fitness journey easier cross-trainers. But there’s a new trend HARMONY783 focuses on creatiung infused with the circulation-enhancing in athletic footwear that encourages stylish shoes engineered to facilitate the semiconductor elements germanium getting back to basics. These two brands constant transfer of revitalizing elec- and carbon, elements activated by your he key to success with any project are designed to help you do just that. trons into our bodies through the simple own body heat to help increase blood is having the right tools for the KINIS Barefoot is a minimalist act of walking. Walkers, joggers, loafers, flow, thus delivering more oxygen to T job. When the project is yourself footwear company focused on helping flip-flops — Harmony783 has them all. the affected area and promoting faster and your health and wellness, having you move in natural and healthy ways, Harmony783.com. healing while reducing inflammation. the right tools is even more important. offering two types of footwear de- Incrediwear.com. That’s why for our 2021 Wellness Issue, signed with a barefoot concept in mind. we’ve put together this list of fitness KINIS creates a sock-and-shoe hybrid SleepPhones “tools” to help you reach your fitness promoting the foot’s natural biome- goals. chanics — no arch support, zero drop — Tammye Nash and an ultra-thin outsole in a natural “foot-shaped” design to promote foot SHOES health. Check out the flexible, durable Harmony783 and machine washable Nomad style, the ultra-minimalist Lucy style or the biomechanically efficient Apollo Pro training shoes. Kinis.com With HARMONY783 shoes, the idea is to get as close to barefoot as possi- ble to take advantage of the concept of “grounding” or “earthing,” based on scientific research studies showing Let’s start with shoes, because if your that direct connection with the earth’s feet hurt, everything hurts. There are surfaces can have major positive effects all kinds of athletic shoes created for all on our well-being reduction of in- kinds of different activities — running flammation, improved sleep, reduced

22 dallasvoice.com █ 01.22.21 Now Under New Management

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01.22.21 █ dallasvoice 23 there’s no reason why we can’t be as well. continue with our in-person events. So You can hike the same trail in the middle of they’re on hold for the moment. We hope winter AND the middle of summer, and it will to be able to restart them in the spring, be two completely different experiences. pending COVID numbers and local guide- As I’ve said, COVID — especially recent- lines and regulations. ly with the tragic jump in cases — has We are, however, in the early stages of gotten to a point where we choose not to planning our first nationwide weekend event, LGBT+ OutdoorFEST Sept. 24-26, at one of Texas’ favorite LGBT+-owned campgrounds, Rainbow Ranch, LGBT+ Outdoorfest will welcome “family” from across the nation for a gathering of camping, kayaking, hiking, education, community and much more! This will be a campout open to our entire LGBT+ Outdoors family and will include work- shops, community experiences and some epic social time that can only be created outdoors. What else do you think people need to know about the LGBT Outdoors? We want all LGBTQ+ people to know that there is a place for them in nature! Sure, the bars and clubs can be fun, but when it comes to feeding your spirit, what can be better that getting outdoors? We have a Orange County Ambassador Riley snorkeling number of resources on our website, and, █ OUTDOORS From Page 20 New York and Illinois have snowy mountains as soon as it is safe to host events again, for skiing and snowboarding. California we will be ramping back up with a variety that input and try to put it into action. This has its famous beaches, which are great of events around DFW such as kayaking, is important because popular activities in year-round for surfing, camping, or just hiking and camping. So stay tuned and Texas might not be received well in Cali- beach-bumming. Nature is 24/7/365, and New York Ambassador Craig and his boy- watch our website, LGBTOutdoors.com, fornia or New York — and vice versa. friend hiking in Utah for information.

24 dallasvoice.com █ 01.22.21 LIFE+STYLE best bets

SAT 01.23 The House Dallas, a new church pastored by Chris Chism, invites anyone interested in joining its worship collective, creative team or house leadership teams to a “vision weekend” preview event. This will be held outdoors, weather permitting, with social distancing in place. The House Dallas is a collective of people from all walks of life meeting in homes and online for authentic and intimate worship gatherings. Begins at noon at 528 Northshore Drive, Valley View. For information visit Facebook.com/TheHouse214.

FRI 01.22-24 Who says the spooky has to end when Halloween is over? Paranormal Cirque is bring- ing spooky back in a new show created for adults — no one under 17 admitted without a parent or guardian — with breathtaking implications poised between fun and uninhibited fear to transport you to a dark world inhabited by creatures with incredible circus art abil- ities. Through Jan. 24 at Town East Mall in Mesquite; Jan. 28-Feb. 7 at Stonebrier Centre in Frisco. Tickets start at $10; available at ParanormalCirque.com.

THU 01.28 Creating Change, the largest annual LGBTQ activist conference in the country focused on learning, connecting and resisting toward the goal of full LGBTQ equality, is virtual this year, giving more people than ever before the chance to participate. This year’s theme is “The Power of You” and bounce queen Big Freedia performs Friday night during the opening keynote and Sunday at the closing plenary. Begins Thursday and goes through Sunday. For more information and to register visit TheTaskForce.org/CreatingChange.html.

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01.22.21 █ dallasvoice 25 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

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26 dallasvoice.com █ 01.22.21 scoop Cassie Nova Representation matters, but …

Good day, Muggles. I hope your new year is off and running in a magical way. Sure, it feels the world is burning around us, but how is it really going for you, personally? So, for me it has been pretty boring: I watch TV. I get on the treadmill occasionally. I cook. I do shows three nights a week. I do laundry on Thursdays, and I nap way too much. It is all just a blur of days that run into each other, making time fly by. I know 2020 was a horrible year but did anybody notice how fast it actually flew by? It’s crazy. Now I would like to get on my soapbox and bitch a little bit about people and their opinions. First off, I want to say that repre- sentation matters; it absolutely does. Have you watched Prom on Netflix? It is a cute little musical from the mind of Ryan Mur- phy starring Meryl Streep, Nicole Kidman and James Corden. The Late Late Show host plays a gay man in the movie, and it has pissed off a bunch of those keyboard warriors because he is — DUNT DUNT DUH! — straight! People — and by people I mean the squeaky wheel assholes — have so much to say about a “straight” man playing a gay dude. It is called acting, people! I am just so annoyed by people having a problem with this. I know lots of gay actors, but I don’t know a single one of them that only wants to play gay characters. Some people complained that he was too stereotypically gay, that he played the part just too gay. Fuck that! I know plenty of gays, and that is actually how some of us Theory as Kelly are so good on the show. It On a positive note, I got pulled over by didn’t get a ticket, and I added to my spank act. And I don’t see any shame in that. Some freaks me out when zombies are involved the police this week. Yes, I said “positive” bank. Win-win! of us have a little more swish in our step and in any way, but to not hear those fuckers because I only got a written warning. I pulled Remember to always love more, BITCH a little more sway in our hips. coming — that terrifies me. up to a four-way stop sign here in Midlothian LESS and be fabulous! XOXO, Cassie Nova I totally get using actual trans actors to Okay — I will get off my soapbox about and did what we call a California stop — you play trans parts, and I hate when they white- this for now. But in conclusion: In my opin- know, where you kinda stop, but it’s more of wash a character that should have been ion, you don’t have to be gay to play a gay a slow-down-keep-going kinda stop. Any- this week’s solution Asian but is played by Scarlett Johansson. on TV. You don’t gotta be straight to play way, the second I do that — mind you I am That is not what I am bitching about. James straight. Lord knows we have all done that the only car at the intersection — I see the Corden was fabulous in Prom. Cheyenne before. I played straight for years and was police SUV, and, of course, he immediately Jackson, an openly gay man, is playing a not particularly good at it. puts his lights on and comes after me. straight guy on Call Me Kat, and ain’t no- I should take my own advice and bitch I stop, get my insurance and driver’s body bitchin’ about that. less, but I’ve realized something: It is hard license out and wait, just cussin’ myself the There was also an uproar online from to be a constant beacon of light. First off, entire time: I’m so stupid. This is going to people bitching that a hearing individual — being positive isn’t nearly as funny as being be expensive. God, I don’t wanna tell my Henry Zaga, a total hottie — was playing bitchy. Second, it is just so easy to go dark; husband about this. a deaf and nonverbal man — Nick Andros my thoughts are usually already there. And Then the cutest, scruffy-bearded officer — in The Stand reboot. They think that the third — fuck it! I don’t need a third. strolls up to my passenger side window. part should have gone to a deaf actor. But if I like to think I would use the force for Bitch, he was fine AF. Every porno I have you know the story, you know that Nick can good, but more than likely, I would totally ever watched where the cop demands hear and speak in dreams, so I get why they turn to the dark side. It just seems more fun. services to keep from taking you to jail went used Zaga. BTDubs, y’all know I am a huge I think I am joking. through my head. Y’all know I have a dirty Stephen King fan, and I think this new Stand I’m not sure if my humor has gotten mind. is really good. They changed a lot to update darker, or if I am just going through a phase. But he said, “I know there were no other it, but I’m totally on board with it. I kind of think that until we get back to what- cars around, but you still have to stop, Mr. I would love to see more deaf or hear- ever the new normal will be, this is who I am. Love.” In my head I had so many witty, dirty ing-impaired actors being used in TV and I just feel like I have gotten so negative, and I things to say, but all I got out was “Yes, █ browse █ submit movies. The Walking Dead introduced a deaf do not like it. Or have I always been this way Daddy … I mean yes sir.” (JK!) character and a hard-of-hearing character but didn’t notice because I didn’t care? He went to his car, ran my info and gave For a more complete Community To submit an item for inclusion in a few seasons ago, and now they are fan Calendar online, visit the Community Calendar, visit Being self-aware is horrible. me a written warning. It made my day. I Tinyurl.com/dvevents. Tinyurl.com/dvevents. favorites. Lauren Ridoff as Connie and Angel

01.22.21 █ dallasvoice 27 LIFE+STYLE scene

Steven putting in the work at Planet Fitness Sex, drugs & Christian rock Adam getting swole

Taylor and Hunter get sweaty Ben Leal has been appointed to the DFW International Airport Board. Jeff at Planet Fitness

Flashback to two years ago when Katy Perry visited Gary Floyd at the piano. Rose Room Bottoms up at Cedar Springs Tap House Look at that big .... bird

28 dallasvoice.com █ 01.22.21 q-puzzle Eddie Izzard’s Wardrobe

Lesbian chef Susie Buck posts her first Eventbright cooking class.

Adam getting swole Eric likes to pump Blake masked up and pumped up

Solution on Page 27 Across 49 Greek group, for short 19 Shrek, for one 1 Lance once of ‘N Sync 51 Kofi once of the UN 23 Sparkles 5 “Put roses on the piano 52 End of the quote 24 Greek philosophical and tulips on the ___” 56 Gershwin of type 10 Milk-colored stone Of Thee I Sing 26 Cries of derision 14 In midvoyage, maybe 59 Lubricates 27 “Grease ___ word!” 15 Dorothy, to Em 60 Canal of Sal 28 Places for Mary and 16 Lesbian porn 61 Digital dealings her little lamb star Hartley 63 Becomes wife and 30 One way to serve 17 Start of an Eddie wife, e.g. your meat Izzard quote about 64 Caesar’s city 31 Nova follower his wardrobe 65 Alternative to TNT 33 Brew ending 20 Gaydar and such 66 On top of that 34 Crash cushion 21 “No need to explain” 67 Looked at 37 Socrates, and others 22 Designer Cassini 68 Goes down in defeat 38 British gun 24 Cold War letters 39 All-star game side, 25 You betcha Down maybe 26 Cary Grant’s 1 Clubs for Cubs 42 Bread ingredient ___ Girl Friday 2 Arthur of the for Gomer 29 More of the quote AIDS Quilt 44 Diner sign 32 Actor Milo of Oz 3 Stein’s Wars I Have ___ 45 John of M. Butterfly 35 Bowie collaborator 4 Affirm orally 50 The Celluloid Closet Brian 5 Singular type of sex? author Vito 36 Job for Burr’s Mason 6 ___ Tin Tin 51 At the front 40 Scary Movie Cheri 7 Prefix with political 52 The Music Man setting 41 Callas wooer Onassis 8 Thespians do it 53 Jessica of The Illusionist 42 Baked, to Buonarroti 9 Just out, kinda 54 Rev. Perry 43 More of the quote 10 Janis Joplin’s 55 Martinac’s Out of ___ 46 Mo. with 30 days “Down ___” 57 Disneyland feature 47 Home, to Glenn Burke 11 Religious reverence 58 They have 48 “Murder on the 12 Singer of “Tomorrow” foamy heads ___ Express” 13 Stays hard 62 Way, out east 18 Fam. member

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