Pride LGBTQ pro wrestlers come to North Texas with Big Gay Brunch, Wrestlemania - By Rich Lopez, Page 8 - Dallas Voice
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Pile-driving with
Pride LGBTQ pro wrestlers
come to North Texas
with Big Gay Brunch,
Wrestlemania
By Rich Lopez, Page 8
2 dallasvoice.com █ 04.01.22
In This Issue April 1, 2022
Volume 38 | Issue 48
1825 Market Center Blvd., Ste. 240, Dallas, Texas 75207 | 214-754-8710 | dallasvoice.com
NEWS
PUBLISHER Leo Cusimano, leo@dallasvoice.com 10 | Safe Space stickers are unsafe in Irving ISD
12 | Dallas protests trans discrimination
MANAGING EDITOR Tammye Nash, nash@dallasvoice.com
SENIOR STAFF WRITER David Taffet, taffet@dallasvoice.com 10
STAFF WRITER Rich Lopez, rich@dallasvoice.com
PROOF READER Philip Burton ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT
CONTRIBUTORS Chris Azzopardi, Gary Bellomy, Jenny Block, Joey Casiano, 08 | Wrestling with Pride
Jesus Chairez, Lawrence Ferber, Hardy Haberman, Scott Huffman,
Lisa Keen, Mark Lowry, Jonathon McCellan, Cassie Nova, 18 | Kimbell’s first African art exhibit in 25 years
Josh Robbins, Howard Lewis Russell, James Russell, Terri Schlichen-
meyer, Leslie McMurray, Gregg Shapiro, Casey Williams
ADVERTISING DIRECTOR Chad Mantooth, mantooth@dallasvoice.com
MARKETPLACE MANAGER Stephen Mobley, mobley@dallasvoice.com 12
NATIONAL REPRESENTATIVE National Advertising Representative ON THE COVER
Todd Evans, Rivendell Media Inc. 908-232-2021 BITES FROM OUR BLOG.............4
VOICES.......................................6
ART DIRECTOR Kevin Thomas, thomas@dallasvoice.com
PLAN YOUR WEEK....................23
MULTIMEDIA Stephen Mobley, Social Media Director
Jimmy Bartlett, Website Management JENNY BLOCK..........................24
Israel Luna, DVtv Video Producer, Host SCENE.......................................26
Tom Roma, DVtv Producer | Joseph Herrera, DVtv Producer
Regina Lyn, DVtv Host | Dom Pecikonis, DVtv Host MARKETPLACE........................30
CIRCULATION DIRECTOR 18
Linda Depriter, distribution@dallasvoice.com
Cover design by Kevin Thomas
FOUNDERS Robert Moore | Don Ritz
AFFILIATIONS | MEMBERSHIPS
Associated Press - Associate Member
National Lesbian and Gay Journalists Association
Certified LGBT Business Enterprise
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Founding Member - National LGBT Media Association
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04.01.22 █ dallasvoice 3
Bites from our blog
three council members for their work. Noting Lincoln Properties buys former
that she wasn’t speaking for the trans commu-
nity but as an ally to the trans community, Cox
iLume properties F
Ilume and ilume Park on Cedar Springs Road a
pointed out that “It’s not safe for many of our
have sold again, this time, to Lincoln Property o
trans allies to speak out for themselves.”
Company, which began managing the proper- r
InstanTEA: DallasVoice.com — David Taffet ties March 1. Lincoln Properties took over from 2
Venterra, the previous owners of the five-story
buildings with about 550 rental units. c
2nd protest set for Sunday at A current picture of the algae-covered pool n
Dallas Arboretum residents say is typical of the service they’ve w
Steve Atkinson, one of the organizers of the gotten since the new management company H
March 19 protest outside the Dallas Arboretum, took over.
has announced there will be a second peaceful Park West is the current name for ilume Park.
protest at the same location on Sunday, April It has two dog parks and allows residents to
3, from 11 a.m.-1 p.m. The protests are being have up to three dogs with no weight or breed
held in response to allegations of the Abore- restrictions. The resident said they ran out of
tum’s anti-LGBTQ employment policies and poop bags within days at the dog parks.
practices and alleged mistreatment of minority Rents run as high as $2,000 per month at the
visitors, and organizers say the protests will properties.
continue until the discrimination has been On the first day Lincoln took over manage-
addressed and rectified. ment of the property, it fired all of Venterra’s
Participants will rally outside the main en- property management staff. Three days later,
trance gates on Garland Road, and those par- they offered staff their jobs back at less pay. After
ticipating are encouraged to bring signs to be weeks of bad service, the new property manag-
used during the protest. Participants can park ers had a resident appreciation reception serving
Dallas City Council committee District 7 Councilman Adam Bazaldua, who
Chick-fil-A.
chairs the committee, condemned violence in the main lot accessed by driving through the
votes to support trans targeting the trans community and noted that main gate, but the main lot is likely to be full by “Tone deaf,” is how the resident put it. “Rain-
community, condemn eight of 66 hate crimes against trans people last 11 a.m. Sunday. If so, participants can park in bow crosswalks are right outside our door.”
year took place in Texas. And while the trans the Arboretum parking garage at 8720 Garland — David Taffet
Legislature community faced violence on the streets, the Road, next to Kwik Kar.
The Quality of Life Committee of the Dallas
Texas Legislature considered 13 bills targeting Anyone who has questions or wants more Missing Florida trans woman
City Council voted unanimously on Tuesday,
the trans community for discrimination. information can contact Atkinson by email at
March 29, to support the city’s transgender found in Texas; not connected
Deputy Mayor Chad West said about the res- steveatk85@gmail.com or by phone call or text
community and condemn the Texas Legislature
for the anti-transgender legislation passed in the
olution, “We took the step to tell the Legislature at 214-334-7404, or Cece Cox by email at to Athens kidnapping
enough is enough.” CCox@myresourcecenter.org. Julia da Silva, a transgender woman last seen
last special session. The resolution now goes to
Resource Center CEO Cece Cox thanked the — Tammye Nash March 24 leaving her home in North Bay Village,
the full council for a vote.
CITY OF
DALLAS
OFFICE OF FAIR HOUSING
The Fair Housing Ordinance makes it illegal to
discriminate against a person in regards to:
Race | Color | Religion | Sex | National Origin |
Handicap (Mental or Physical) | Familial Status
(Children Under 18) | Source of Income
(social security, spousal support, child support
or veterans with housing assistance vouchers) |
The actions that are covered by the
City Ordinance are:
RENTAL, including leasing, using and keeping a unit,
and property management;
SALES, including brokers, sales agents, lenders,
mortgage brokers, insurance agents and sellers;
ADVERTISEMENT, including brokers, sales agents,
lenders, mortgage brokers, insurance agents and sellers;
For complaints regarding Sexual Orientation and
Gender Identity;
HOUSING, including the rental and sale of housing
and all other business practices related to a person’s
housing activities;
EMPLOYMENT, including brokers, sales agents,
lenders, mortgage brokers, insurance agents
and sellers;
PUBLIC ACCOMMODATION, service in
restaurants, theaters, retail store, and
non-governmental public services
(relative to sexual orientation only).
If you suspect discrimination in these areas
and wish to file a complaint call:
214-670-FAIR (3247)
The work that provided the basis for this publication was supported by
funding under a Cooperative Agreement with the U.S. Department of
Housing and Urban Development. The substance and findings of the
work are dedicated to the public. The author and publisher are solely
responsible for the accuracy of the statements and interpretations con-
tained in this publication. Such interpretations do not necessarily reflect
the views of the Government.
4 dallasvoice.com █ 04.01.22
Fla., has been located in Texas, according to A spokeswoman for the North Bay Village
a report by ABC News. But despite rumors police confirmed Wednesday afternoon that
on social media, Da Silva was not the woman da Silva had been found in Texas, but said she
rescued from kidnappers Tuesday night, March could not give any more details because the
29, in Athens, just southeast of Dallas. investigation into the case is ongoing.
Henderson County Sheriff Botie Hillhouse ABC News reports today that North Bay
confirmed that the woman rescued Tuesday Village police are working with local authorities in
night by his office was not da Silva. “That’s not Texas and with family members to coordinate da
what we are being told,” he said of the rumors. Silva’s return to Florida.
Hillhouse did not identify the kidnapping victim. — Tammye Nash
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04.01.22 █ dallasvoice 5
VOICES
OPINIONS FROM THE COMMUNITY
Between a rock and a trans place
Abbott, Paxton are harming our
children, not protecting them
I
recently received a phone call from a
woman I’d never met. She was pret-
ty upset about the “opinion” of our
attorney general and our governor that
affirming care for trans youth is child
abuse.
Some perspective: She believes in
smaller government and responsible
spending. She has voted Republican for
as long as she can remember. She has
never really paid a lot of attention to “so- The terrifying thing that
cial issues” — until her child came out as should be in the mind of
non-binary. every parent is that this
She admitted to me that she had to can happen to you as well.
look up that definition. That’s a start. I also fear for our li-
She is a loving, caring mom, who wants censed professionals
the best for her child. She is certainly not — therapists, lawyers and doctors and have prohibited transgender girls from edge of a child’s medically necessary
the picture of an abusive parent — unless other “mandatory reporters” — com- participating in sports, citing the appall- care, should they become aware of it, and
you talk to Texas Attorney General Ken munication with them is generally pro- ing and tragic suicide rate among trans- potentially destroying a family and dev-
Paxton or Gov. Greg Abbott. tected and confidential, but not when it gender youth. Cox said, “I want them to astating the life of a child — all so you
The crocodile tears spilled by these comes to child abuse. They have a “duty live.” (Sadly, the Utah legislature didn’t can pander to your base during primary
two political opportunists under the to report” within 48 hours if they suspect share his concern and over-rode his season really worth it? You apparent-
guise of “protecting children” may fool “child abuse.” So, if you are a therapist veto.) ly trust parents to decide which library
some people, but we see through them. working with a child suffering with gen- Of 75,000 kids playing sports in Utah, books should be in a school library and
They have zero interest in protecting der dysphoria and is aware that the child only four are transgender, and only ONE which school to attend, so how about
children. If they did, they would address is receiving affirming, medically nec- was involved in girls’ sports. you butt out of the medical decisions?
the deplorable state of the foster care sys- essary care that the state deems “child If only our own governor had such In fact, Governor, if you really want
tem in Texas or speak out about the chil- abuse,” do you report this to Texas DFPS compassion and wisdom. to do something about saving the lives
dren being separated from their parents and lose a client (they will never trust Abbott isn’t trying to make the lives of children, how about doing something
at the border. you again) and potentially your practice of ordinary Texans better; he is instead about gun violence? In Dallas recently
Their interest is solely in protecting (word gets around) and also ruin a fam- working overtime to make the lives of this past week, 10 kids age 15-21 were
their phony-baloney jobs and, maybe as ily, possibly having that child separated those that he hates worse. shot at a spring break party. So far, an
a side benefit, devastating the families of from their parents? Or do you keep your As of March of this year, 15 states have 18-year-old has died. On Monday morn-
people they hate along the way. mouth shut and risk losing your license restricted access to gender affirming care ing, March 28, a child died after being
As things stand today, Lambda Legal for failure to report? or are currently considering laws that shot in a separate incident. And we hav-
and the ACLU have filed a lawsuit to The state of Texas is putting you in an would do-so. Missouri and Texas are two en’t heard a word from you.
stop CPS investigations of parents pro- untenable position from which no good states who are calling this medically nec- Maybe you hadn’t heard about any of
viding medically necessary care to their can come. essary care “child abuse.” The Williams that. I mean, you and Paxton have been
children. Most recently, the Texas 3rd If this “opinion” becomes law, the cost Institute estimates the number of youth so busy filing appeals to interfere in the
Court of Appeals has upheld the injunc- will be measured in lives. It is an undis- at risk of losing access to care in these healthcare needs of people who don’t
tion, preventing Texas from investigating puted fact: Access to gender affirming states at 58,200. need your hate-fueled brand of “help,”
these families, but Paxton has appealed services cuts the odds of severe depres- In my mind, it’s a criminal act for the you probably completely missed these
to the Texas Supreme Court to have that sion and even suicide among transgen- state to act in a way that serves no legit- actual atrocities harming children. █
injunction set aside and allow the DFPS der youth. Providing this medically imate state interest while endangering Leslie McMurray is transgender educa-
investigations to continue as the lawsuit necessary care IS NOT child abuse. But the health and very lives of some of our tion and advocacy associate at Resource Cen-
makes its way through the courts, leav- denying them that care IS. most vulnerable youth. ter in Dallas. She is also a regular columnist
ing loving, supportive parents in a night- In March, Utah’s republican governor, Greg Abbott, is putting every Texan in for Dallas Voice. Read more of her blogs at
mare of limbo. Spencer Cox, vetoed a bill that would the position of having to report knowl- lesliemichelle44.wordpress.com.
6 dallasvoice.com █ 04.01.22
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04.01.22 █ dallasvoice 7
Wrestling with Pride
IN THE RING
WrestleMania is coming to town several independent wrestling events as Pabst. Supporting their diverse grass- these heteronormative people who
— and so are Effy, Mike Parrow will be happening throughout DFW. roots community and talent in authentic thought they knew what gay wrestling
And Effy’s Big Gay Brunch at Fair Park and meaningful ways,” Seamus Gal- was. Instead, this thing that connects all
and Sonya Deville lagher, Pabst Blue Ribbon culture and of us eases the tension, and maybe opens
should certainly be the most fabulous.
“It’s a pro wrestling show at its core,” partnerships senior brand manager said minds.”
RICH LOPEZ | Staff writer Effy explained. “Surrounding that is my in an email. He says he has found a warm em-
rich@dallasvoice.com version of what I think LGBTQIA wres- Effy has long been an advocate for brace by all wrestling fans, but he’s also
tling looks like; we take that reverent queer wrestlers, and he does that by seen a safe space for queer fans too. And
restle- feeling of inclusion and turn it on its fusing gay culture with pro-wrestling he sees that these events open eyes to
Mania head.” tropes — not that it’s a far leap. He straight folks — particuarly through the
38, hosted This is the fourth Big Gay Brunch knows that wrestling is already pretty gay camp.
by World event Effy (nee Taylor Gibson) has host- gay — oiled up, muscled bodies in tights “I like the lingo of wrestling, and I
Wrestling ed that includes a bill of primarily queer groping each other (sounds like a night combine that with queer lingo to the
Entertain- wrestlers of all genders. Previous ver- at the Tin Room). point that I’ve become incomprehensi-
ment, body- sions have been held in Chicago, But his mission is to bring ble. But when we have teams like Team
slams its way Indianapolis and Tampa, but more than just the rainbow Bussy or the Bi-Curious Battle Royale
into North Texas this weekend for a two- he says this is looking to be to the ring. event, we make straight folks confront
day event at AT&T Stadium. The week- the biggest so far. “There’s this commu- those terms and our culture,” he said.
end will be highlighted by the Winner “We wanna bring that nity spirit that welcomes “We’re starting to make a dent and push
Takes All match for the WWE Champi- over-the-top wrestling everyone. All the gays all that into a viable ok-ness.”
onship and Universal Championship we have to everyone,” love coming to see Effy headlines the brunch card, taking
between Roman Reigns and Brock Le- he said. these characters, but on Mexican luchador Pimpinela Escarla-
snar, as well as Ronda Rousey vying for Mimosas may what we’re getting ta. Other wrestlers include Dark Sheik,
the SmackDown Women’s Champion- not be the high- are Allie Katch, the nonbinary nightmare
ship against Charlotte Flair. light at this gay Max the Impaler, Kidd Bandit and Mike
Surrounding WrestleMania are not brunch, but they Parrow. As Big Gay Brunch and other
only its Smackdown and Raw tapings will be there. queer-themed shows continue, Effy’s
Friday and Monday, but a number of Alongside food finding that these wrestlers are growing
independent wrestling matches all trucks for nosh. in popularity.
throughout Dallas-Fort Worth — includ- But, in short, “More people are attending, and,
ing some LGBTQ athletes who are right BGB is legit wres- as my reputation grows, the stars and
up in the middle of it all with a big gay tling — just with shows have grown into household
wrestling event on Saturday and one an even campier names, and they are being actively
WWE superstar who is taking an au- side. sought to wrestle,” he said.
thority over the ring. And it all This all sounds like Effy’s master plan
Learn more about WrestleMania 38 at comes with is going as planned.
WWE.com. backing not only If anything, he’s at least going to
from GCW but have a good time delivering his signa-
Out wrestler Effy serves even support ture moves such as the Bitch Slap or the
Fame-Asser.
up Pride and piledrivers by a sponsor
the community Effy acknowledged that some behind-
at Big Gay Brunch may not have the-scenes work goes into matches, but
Whether it’s the Bi-Curious Battle recognized as he enjoys that wrestling is still an unpre-
Royale, the Last Daddy Standing or an ally: “As fans dictable art form. “I’ve done standup.
the Twink Gauntlet, wrestler Effy, The of wrestling and I did some acting; I played in bands.
Weapon of Sass Destruction, is likely be- wrestling cul- There was always something repetitive
hind it. ture, Pabst saw about those that drove me away. So, I
As part of the Game Changer Wres- in GCW a part- marvel to be in this situation. It’s like the
tling (GCW) collective, Effy has worked ner rooted in only art form of theater that is complete-
to give a voice to queer-identifying a similar ethos ly contingent on the room.
wrestlers and allies on the independent of DIY and “We tell simple stories and we have to
circuit. Well, if not a voice, then at least inclusivity respond on our feet each time. It’s a fas-
some chokeholds. cinating art as well as violent and showy
With Wrestlemania weekend upon us, Effy and all that,” he said.
8 dallasvoice.com █ 04.01.22
Effy’s Big Gay Brunch presented by try to teach people and show how stuff “Without him, we wouldn’t have this WWE authority figure in the organiza-
GCW and Pabst Blue Ribbon, 11 a.m. like ‘You don’t look gay’ is very disre- platform. He took the risk, and it paid tion, which puts her character center-
Saturday at Fair Park, 3809 Grand Ave. spectful. I mean, I’m very gay; I married off,” Parrow said. “I refer to indepen- stage with her executive decisions on
Eventbrite.com. a man. I came out because of him,” he dent wrestling as purgatory, but you get matches.
said. “What’s great now is we are being to experiment. So many people tell us She headed to Dallas the day before
Monster bear Mike Parrow the people we need to see on television. ‘no,’ but Brett gave us this opportunity the chaos.
as well as showcases for people of color
muscles up queer culture on Before, companies had these token gays, “I’m starting tomorrow and going
and they were always sympathetic. I’m and all-women shows, and that leads to through the whole week with Smack-
the mat not a sympathetic character.” bigger opportunities.” down on Friday, then Wrestlemania and
Towering over most everyone else at On a more topical note, Parrow points Big gay wrestling is on the rise, and then Raw on Monday,” Deville said by
6 feet, 4 inches and 300 pounds of beef, out that shows like Big Gay Brunch defy Parrow is all about bringing that to the phone.
muscle and grimace, Mike Parrow is any notions of “Don’t say ‘gay.’” The forefront. “Non-gay people see a lot of Her character is often in front of the
an intimidating figure (or a unicorn de- glaring notion is that you can’t ignore a gay stuff as a weird fetish. I mean, we do audience as she sets up matches and per-
pending on your preference). He made giant like Parrow who is gay. have the pup-collar match, but we can’t haps does a little instigating as well. For
headlines with his coming out story in “We’ve been pushed back so far al- act like these things aren’t real. I think Wrestlemania, Deville is always ready to
2017, but before that, he had major con- ready. Our job is to give people hope and this all normalizes that, and normalizing get front and center on wrestling’s big-
flict about his identity. Still, it was love not take it away,” he said. our culture is a big thing for me.” gest stage — but especially this time.
that brought him out of the closet to be- “Wrestlemania is our Super Bowl.
come a powerhouse advocate and loving Since quarantine, this has been our first
husband. full event. We have some of the best
Parrow is part of this year’s Big Gay matchups, and our fans are going crazy
Brunch bill Saturday at Fair Park, and he already,” she said.
was there at the beginning at the explo- She assures fans will see her around
sion of LGBTQ presence in independent throughout each show.
wrestling. He takes on trans wrestler Deville entered WWE as a wrestler,
Dark Sheik this weekend. debuting in December 2015. She had her
“When I came out, there wasn’t really fair share of storylines and feuds as well
anybody that I knew. Some had the gay as peripheral appearances on WWE re-
gimmick. but it was on a straight charac- ality shows Total Divas and initially on
ter,” Parrow said. “So we wanted a place Tough Enough, WWE’s wrestling compe-
where queer wrestlers could be show- tition show.
cased to succeed.” It’s there that fans got to know the real
What he appreciates about Big Gay Sonya Deville. When asked about her re-
Brunch is how it opens up a queer safe lationship status, she divulged that she
space to everybody. This way, queer cul- had a girlfriend. And at that moment,
ture is on display to non-queer wrestling she became the first openly gay female
fans. He doesn’t want safe spaces to al- of WWE.
ways be bubbles that are ultimately ex- “I was being asked a question on a
clusive. reality show, and I got nervous, and I
“We like to bring our terminology and just said the truth. I didn’t have any clue
culture and normalize it to the straight what that meant at the time,” she said.
community. Some of them just haven’t Although not the first openly gay per-
been taught or don’t know, so we give son in WWE, Deville’s out-ness pushed
them a gay experience without any hete- her into historic — if not iconic — status.
ro-narrative.” Darren Young came out in 2015 and was
For Parrow, BGB thrusts queer culture Boss Lady Sonya Deville, the first out gay wrestler in WWE. He
on their terms in the backdrop of wres- was released from his contract in 2017
tling — and folks have a blast with it. In the ring, Effy and Parrow are adver- Find Mike Parrow on Instagram at and has since moved on to other wres-
“Even straight people get judged, so I saries. Mostly because Effy applies the @parrow. tling companies.
think they can come here, have fun, let term Daddy to himself, and Parrow — Deville said he paved the way for her.
go and not feel judged,” he said. who says his pronouns are sir and dad- Boss Lady Sonya Deville “He opened the door that I couldn’t
dy — isn’t having it. So basically, two
Parrow also likes how events like this
forges a queer path in open. Without Darren doing that, who
change the notion of stereotypes, some- queens are arguing over their gay label. knows,” she said. “And I’ve opened a
thing he has been doing for a while now. “We’re basically mean girls to each the WWE door that he couldn’t.”
Gays come in all shapes and sizes, but other,” Parrow said. Effy mentioned that When WWE hits the Metroplex, Sonya She said that she came out due to
Parrow said he has often encountered he tries to keep as far away from Parrow Deville will be all over it. Not only will nerves and didn’t know what, if any,
people who just can’t believe he could as he can. WWE host Wrestlemania 38, it will film repercussions she might face. Turns out
be…you know. That this can play out in the wrestling its shows Smackdown and Raw here this that, like with Young, WWE was sup-
“People will see ‘gay’ as more fem- ring is almost genius. Parrow gives cred- weekend, and Deville will be instrumen- portive of her. And ultimately, she was
inine and weak. You look at me, I’m it to Brett Lauderdale of Game Changer tal in those shows. Although a wrestler glad of her decision.
neither. I mean I could beat you up. We Wrestling. herself, these days Deville serves as a WRESTLING, Page 20
04.01.22 █ dallasvoice 9
Unsafe space
IN THE SCHOOLS
Those same stickers Dallas doesn’t happen in all classes because
police have been distributing some teachers wouldn’t be comfortable
with that.
are dangerous in Irving One person questioning her under-
stood she’s had some training and expe-
DAVID TAFFET | Senior Staff Writer rience in that sort of multi-tasking. An-
taffet@dallasvoice.com other tried framing it as some teachers
think they’re better than others: “So that
lacing Safe Space is [saying] basically all the other teachers
stickers on classroom are not a safe ...”
doors creates an un- But Stonecipher cut her off. “Well, that
safe environment in is a, I think, a misperception on the part
a school, according of the other teachers,” she said. “The
the Irving ISD school sticker does not mean you’re a good or a
board. The Safe Space bad person. It simply means that you feel
stickers in question are capable of having these conversations of
used in a school to indicate a person may being there for that kid, that you’re will-
enter the room and be protected from a ing to do the thing where you say, ‘Hey,
dangerous situation and that, should po- neighbor, watch my class for a second.’”
lice need to be called, that person may The grievance committee was not
safely wait there until help arrives. convinced and adopted the recommen-
Dallas police have been distributing dation of its attorney that Safe Space
Safe Space stickers since last year, along stickers make the school’s other places
with Dallas Hope Charities. Dallas Voice unsafe and therefore should be banned.
has one on its door. Stonecipher said she expects that, at its
But in Irving schools, the school board April 18 meeting, the school board will
has determined, those stickers are per- propose to terminate her contract but
Rachel Stonecipher
ceived as a danger. pay her through the end of the school
The controversy over the Safe Space place for an LGBTQ student to find the olate the law by not reporting abuse at year in August. The second GSA spon-
stickers began early this school year at open arms they needed when looking home and physical bullying on school sor who was removed from her class-
Irving’s MacArthur High School. The for a safe space. property. room resigned earlier in the school year.
high school’s new principal ordered Safe MacArthur Principal Natasha Stew- But Stonecipher said nothing could be After being removed from MacAr-
Space stickers removed from classroom art responded to the protests and the further from the truth. She said she under- thur, Stonecipher was reassigned to Ir-
doors without notifying anyone that it walkout by insisting all spaces in Irving stands the law and would report suspect- ving Secondary Reassignment Center.
would be happening. Three days later, schools are safe spaces. And while that is ed abuse at home. In addition, reporting She said there are normally 120 to 150
one of the faculty sponsors of the Gay- certainly the goal, Stonecipher said she bullying is exactly what the Safe Space students at the school who have been
Straight Alliance was removed from her wondered why, if the whole school were stickers encourage. She repeated that a placed there for 20 to 30 days at a time.
classroom after questioning the action. a safe place, so many students came to student could come to her room, discuss The school has smaller classes, and
Four days later, a second sponsor was her classroom to talk about bullying. what happened, but then report it. she said as a teacher who’s been placed
removed from her classroom, too. At the recent third group grievance “If students reported bullying, we re- there on disciplinary action, she thinks
After those two teachers were re- hearing for GSA sponsors, the argument ported it,” she said. she’s made an impact on some of her
moved from the school, students walked flipped. At the hearing, Stonecipher was asked, students.
out in protest. According to a transcript of the meet- “So if the kid is in crisis, so to speak, For some of her students, she’s found,
Rachel Stonecipher was the first GSA ing, the reason for removing stickers you’re in class, they’re going to come to “It’s a big deal to have a teacher that lis-
sponsor removed from the school. She from doors and other items from class- your class, whether kids were going to tens to you.”
said she heard that one teacher com- rooms such as Pride flags is because deal with it while their kids are in class.” Irving ISD remains one of the few
plained that if he didn’t have a sticker on teachers were not reporting incidents “Well, I can have that conversation school districts in Dallas County with
his door, his class wouldn’t be perceived when students came to them. Only outside of the class,” Stonecipher re- no LGBTQ employment protections rec-
as a safe space for students. LGBTQ-related items were removed sponded. “I can direct my kids very, very ommended by the state after the Bostock
Stonecipher said he was welcome to from classrooms. Religious items remain well and say, ‘Look, guys, I need you to v. Clayton County employment nondis-
participate in the program, but could the in Irving classrooms. be on page five and six today. I need to crimination case. And the school district
problem be that the logo on the sticker The school district accused the GSA handle something real quick,’ and they has no specific bullying policy or other
includes a Pride flag? If so, she suggest- sponsors of promising students confi- will. They will.” nondiscrimination policies in place to
ed, maybe his class wouldn’t be the best dentiality. In doing so, they would vi- She told the grievance committee that protect LGBTQ students. █
10 dallasvoice.com █ 04.01.22Dallas protests trans discrimination
FIGHTING FOR TRANS RIGHTS
UT Southwestern, Children’s Arboretum is taking the same position
Health say they never closed when it comes to allegations of employ-
their gender clinic. ment discrimination there. A former
employee’s claims they were fired for
including pronouns in their email sig-
DAVID TAFFET | Senior Staff Writer nature. while religious quotes continue
taffet@dallasvoice.com to be allowed in email signatures seem
to be part of a history of allegations of
llegedly after being discrimination at the facility. That for-
threatened by Gov. mer employee has filed suit against the
Greg Abbott, Genecis Arboretum.
Clinic at Children’s The Quality of Life Committee of the
Health last No- Dallas City Council isn’t buying the “It
vember stopped was a mistake” claims. This week, the
taking new committee passed a resolution support-
clients. This ing the trans community and condemn-
month the clinic’s founder filed a law- ing the Texas Legislature for passing
suit against Children’s and UT South- laws aimed at harming the trans commu-
western, which housed the clinic. But nity. The committee voted unanimously
now officials with UT Southwestern and on Tuesday, March 29, to condemn an
Children’s are saying it’s all a big mis- opinion from Attorney General Ken
understanding. Around 40 people participated in a March 19 protest outside Dallas Arboretum
On the other side of town, the Dallas TRANS, Page 14 (Dallas Taffet/Dallas Voice)
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Paxton that calls providing gender-af- the lawsuit prove to be true, the facility
firming care to trans youth child abuse. is violating city ordinances and the Dal-
Gov. Greg Abbott then based his direc- las city charter.
tive ordering the Department of Family Cox said she’s learned of additional
and Protective Services to launch abuse cases of discrimination at the Arboretum
investigations into parents providing ac- that have resulted in lawsuits, but that
cess to such care for their trans children. employees and former employees speak
The Quality of Life Committee’s reso- of a culture of discrimination at the gar-
lution now goes to the full council for a dens that operate under contract with
vote. the city and sit on city park land.
District 7 Councilman Adam Bazaldua
chairs that committee. At a press con- Backpedaling over Genecis
ference announcing the resolution,
Bazaldua condemned violence target- In a separate issue targeting the trans
ing the trans community and noted that community, Genecis Clinic at Children’s
eight of 66 hate crimes against trans peo- Health had operated for almost a de-
ple last year took place in Texas. And cade without controversy before last
while the trans community faced vio- fall. As the Texas Republican primary
lence on the streets, they also faced vio- approached and Abbott was being chal-
lence coming from the dome of the Texa lenged from the right, he put pressure on
Capitol as the Legislature considered 13 UT Southwestern to close the gender-af-
bills targeting the trans community for firming clinic for trans youth.
discrimination. In a statement released by UT South-
Deputy Mayor Chad West said of the western and Children’s Health, the orga-
resolution, “We took the step to tell the nizations wrote, “Last November, with
Legislature enough is enough.” And legal challenges to hormone therapy as a
Councilman Omar Narvaez described component of care for minors treated for
the Dallas trans community as vibrant, gender dysphoria gaining momentum in
adding “We have their backs here in Dal- Texas and elsewhere, UT Southwestern
las.” and Children’s Health suspended initi-
Narvaez talked about children in lov- ating this treatment for new patients, be-
ing homes being investigated for child lieving that a failure to act would put the
abuse, pledging that loving families entire program in jeopardy.”
in Dallas will not be investigate for or Their announcement at the time said
charged with abuse. “Dallas is a wel- nothing about “suspending,” but it was
coming city,” he said. “We will take care clear they were no longer taking new
of them.” patients. Even existing patients worried
As part of the resolution, city ordi- that their treatment would suddenly
nances will be reviewed to make sure end, although hospital officials’ state-
there’s specific language including gen- ment did promise they would continue
der identity. care for existing patients.
Resource Center CEO Cece Cox “In taking these actions, Children’s
thanked the three council members for Health and UT Southwestern weighed
their work. Noting that she wasn’t speak- the momentum of opposition to hor-
ing for the trans community but as an mone therapy for gender dysphoria
ally to the trans community, Cox point- for minors — and efforts to curtail it —
ed out that “It’s not safe for many of our against the unquestioned need for our
trans allies to speak out for themselves.” other gender-affirming care efforts and
Bazaldua acknowledged there was decided to focus on these important ser-
only so much support they can give on a vices,” the statement reads.
local level, although at the county level, LGBT Caucus legislative intern Ches-
District Attorney John Creuzot said his ley Hinds looked into what was going
office wouldn’t waste its time prosecut- on at Genecis and confirmed that “exist-
ing parents for making life-saving med- ing patients continue to have access to
ical decisions with their doctors for their blockers/hormone therapies.”
children. “New patients,” she wrote in an email
At the press conference, Cox also ex- to LGBTQ organizations across the state,
pressed her concern about the Arbore- “are referred out to gender-affirming
tum case. She said if the allegations in TRANS, Page 21
14 dallasvoice.com █ 04.01.22y
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s
s
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04.01.22 █ dallasvoice 15The language of beauty
ON DISPLAY
Exhibit is Kimbell Museum’s
first focused on African art
in 25 years
DAVID TAFFET | Senior Staff Writer
taffet@dallasvoice.com
T
he Language of Beauty in African
Art, a new exhibit at the Kimbell
Art Museum, gives “insight into
African cultures and their ideas of beau-
ty,” according to the museum’s director,
Eric Lee.
Three murals open the display to
show that much of what is shown was
part of a multi-sensory performance.
That includes masks, jewelry, helmets
and more in this massive exhibit of more
than 200 pieces of African art from West,
Central and Southern Africa.
While this exhibit may not be every-
one’s taste, it certainly is mine. I have a
collection of masks and carved statues,
18 dallasvoice.com █ 04.01.22size as or even larger than the compan-
ion male figure. In many of the African
cultures represented, women have equal
status to men. Even where the public
power was a man, women were equally
influential in those areas as advisors.
Beauty in African art has a purpose.
In some cases, it’s created to attract and
please deities or to protect. Ugly masks
made with horns and tusks were rough
and terrifying, powerful and danger-
ous. These war-like creations were in-
tentionally the opposite of beauty.
Works included in a final category of
works transcends ugly and beauty and
are sublime, powerful figures in an ag-
gressive posture taking a threatening
stance that were created by a carver and
a ritual specialist working together.
Most of the works in this vast exhibit
date from the late 1800s and early 1900s.
Shows like this are rare. This is the first
some from Africa, that I mostly picked es, the word beauty time in 25 years the Kimbell has focused
up at street markets. They don’t have the extends beyond visual entirely on African art. █
value of these museum-quality pieces, beauty and includes The Language of Beauty in African Art
but I learned several things about them goodness. runs April3-July 31 at the Kimbell Art Mu-
at the exhibit. In some sets of seum, 3333 Camp Bowie Blvd., Fort Worth.
According to Constantine Petridis, the sculptures, statues of $18. See more photos from the exhibit online
show’s curator, in many African languag- women are the same at DallasVoice.com.
04.01.22 █ dallasvoice 19WRESTLING, From Page 9
P
Mike Parrow
“It’s been a journey, but I had no idea part of the community. Folks will likely
what it would mean. I was nervous even see WWE celebrate Pride.
for weeks after I did it, but then that “We have some cool stuff planned for
turned into pride,” she said. “I wasn’t Pride month. I can’t wait,” Deville said.
really living my true self or didn’t fully She didn’t always want to be a wres-
accept myself until I came out.” tler. Deville got her start in mixed mar-
Now Deville sees herself as a path- tial arts (MMA), but found her sweet
way for representation and visibility spot in WWE. Growing up, though, she
for WWE and sports in general. recalls not quite having those women
She’s been working with WWE and to look up to.
its community relations department “There wasn’t much for women that
to really have a presence within the I saw, so it was hard for me to imagine
LGBTQIA community. Deville also has myself being part of all this,” she ac-
a huge stage for her platform. knowledged. “When you see it, it helps
“I don’t get too political, but I do to accept yourself.
speak on openness and equality for all. “When you see representation, you
Also, don’t be a jerk and don’t discrim- feel a bit more OK. I have young wom-
inate — my message is simple,” she en and parents come to me with their
said. “But getting that screen time and stories, and that makes everything I do
having important partnerships with now so cool and worthwhile. I think
GLAAD, I think we’re verbalizing our my younger self would be proud.”
message in the right ways.” Her younger self would also proud of
According to Deville, WWE is doing her boss status — which is first and fore-
more each year to participate and be a most this weekend. █
20 dallasvoice.com █ 04.01.22TRANS, From Page 14
Protesters rallied outside the Dallas Arboretum on Saturday, March 19. (David Taffet/Dallas Voice)
care providers listed in the attached When Dallas Voice visited the clin-
doc [and] located in Houston, Austin ic in its first year of operation, it was
[and] San Antonio (there are no refer- made clear that this was a stand-alone
rals offered for providers in DFW).” “program” and not some related hand-
Two of the five providers UT South- ful of services presented under some
western referred to — Texas Children’s catchy name. And it was presented that
Hospital in Houston and Legacy Com- way to parents of trans youth, as well.
munity Health — have stopped offer- One mom said at the time she was
ing blockers and hormone therapy to “delighted with the Genecis program.”
trans youth. The director of the program de-
Hinds noted that UT Southwestern scribed three years of “putting the Ge-
y cites three reasons for discontinuing pu- necis program together.”
berty blockers and hormone therapies Dallas Voice was not challenged by
r for trans youth: media attention, politi- UT Southwestern on that description.
. cal controversy and scientific controver- “To be clear: UT Southwestern phy-
- sy. While agreeing there has been plenty sicians are currently providing gen-
- of media attention and the issue is po- der-affirming care to both youths and
t litically controversial, she questions the adults,” the two organizations said in
e claims of scientific controversy. their statement this week.
n “Erroneous claims that there is uncer- “Our clinics for youths experiencing
tainty in the medical community about or needing evaluation for gender dys-
t the long-term physiological and physi- phoria were never closed and have been
e cal effects of these treatments on trans actively accepting new patients,” they
- children,” she wrote, citing findings also claim. “We continue to provide
s from UT Southwestern’s own published evaluations for gender dysphoria in
studies that support using blockers and youths, continue to provide psychiatric
u hormone therapy on trans teens. care for gender transition, and continue
- But the statement from UT South- the coordination of these services.”
r western continues with more half- But UT Southwestern and Children’s
o truths. Health won’t be providing the medica-
k “Although Genecis served as a coor- tion its own studies have shown are ef-
dinating brand for our pediatric trans- fective and life-saving treatments while
f gender services, contrary to what has referring patients to clinics hundreds of
- been reported, it was never a stand- miles away that, in some cases, don’t
█ alone clinic,” the statement continues. provide the treatments either. █
04.01.22 █ dallasvoice 21HALLELOO, it’s
VISIT
Complete Visitors Guide to DFW
OUT!
Available in newsstands now!
LIVE Visit us online at
Dynamic Relocation Guide
www.OUTntx.com
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Comprehensive Business Directory
22 dallasvoice.com █ 04.01.22GAY AGENDA
ARTRAGEOUS
Some 200 decorative and
visual artists, 100 bands
and singer/songwriters
performing on four stages
and two other performance
areas, food, drink and The Artists in Motion
Walk are all included in the 2022 Deep Ellum
Arts Festival, open April 1-3 on Main Street in
Deep Ellum. You’ll have the chance to check
out displays of cutting-edge decorative arts,
purchase art, commission special pieces
and even watch some of the artists at work,
creating on the spot. And each evening
will end with a performance by a national
headliner, including All The Cool Kids and, on
Saturday, Reverend Horton Heat. Get all the
details at DeepEllumArtsFestival.com
GIDDYUP Y’ALL
The last couple of pandemic
years have put a hitch in many
a get-along, especially for
LGBTQ nonprofits who rely
so much on money brought in
by fundraising events. This weekend, though,
you can get “Back in the Saddle” for the
The 2021 Black Tie Dinner raised a record-breaking $1.45 million, and now organizers are getting ready to launch the 2022 Black Tie return of Resource Center’s biggest party of
experience. The 2022 Black Tie Dinner Kick-Off event happens Wednesday, April 6, from 6:30-8:30 p.m. at On The Levee, 1108 Quaker the year, Toast to Life. The Western Glitz-
St., in the Design District. Organizers will announce Black Tie’s 2022 theme, beneficiaries and more, the first step in the process leading themed event features live entertainment from
up to the 41st annual Black Tie Dinner on Sept. 24. Tickets to the kick-off are $50, available online at EventBrite.com. DJ Blake Ward and the Breckinridge Band,
dancing, silent and live auctions, bites from
local restaurants and so much more. It’s all
PLAN YOUR WEEK happening Saturday, April 2, from 7-11 p.m.
at The Empire Room, 1225 N. Riverfront Blvd.
The Gay Agenda is now color-coded: n April 2: Colour Me Queer Play n April 3: Oak Cliff Earth Day Tickets and sponsorships are available online
n Red for community events Festival auditions Community event celebrating the environment at One.Bidpal.net/ToastToLife2022.
n Blue for arts and entertainment In-person auditions for the inaugural Colour at Lake Cliff Park, 300 E. Colorado Blvd, from
n Purple for sports Me Queer Play Festival is taking place at noon-5 p.m. OakCliffEarthDay.com. SELENA FOREVER
n Green for nightlife the Oak Lawn Branch Library, 4100 Cedar It’s been 27 years now since
n Orange for civic events and holidays Springs Road in the auditorium from 1-3 p.m. n Through April 3: Gary: A Sequel Yolanda Saldivar killed singer
Visit Dropbox.com/sh/2xad44hystfwka3/ to Titus Andronicus Selena Quintanilla, who was
AAACJrkqU0-8Okp9sULM9Ydaa?dl=0 to Written by Taylor Mac and presented by then just 23 years old, cutting
APRIL
submit a headshot/resume/virtual audition. Call Kitchen Dog Theater. Trinity River Arts Center, short a career that was on the
n April 1: Jen Fulwiler
972-913-6511 or email: blaqueac@gmail.com 2600 N. Stemmons Freeway, Suite 180. verge of super stardom. But there is no doubt
Stand-up comic Jen Fulwiler at Moody
for more information. KitchenDogTheater.org. that Selena remains the “undisputed queen of
Performance Hall, 2529 Flora St., at 7 p.m.
Tejano music,” and the queen of our hearts.
ATTPAC.org.
n April 2: Effy’s Big Gay Brunch n April 5: Classic Chassis Car Club meeting Back by popular demand, the Round-Up
Presented by Game Changer Wrestling, this Enjoy the cars out in the parking lots and then Saloon and Texas Latino Pride present the
n April 1-3: Deep Ellum Arts Festival
installment, hosted by out wrestler Effy, is one enjoy the food from 6-8 p.m. at Ojeda’s, 4617 third annual Siempre Selena Party on Sunday,
Live music, local artists and more will be
of the events showcasing LGBTQ wrestlers and Maple Ave. ClassicChassis.com. April 3, from 4:30-9 p.m., at the Round-up,
featured in this three-day festival. After a 10-
talent during WrestleMania 2022 here in Dallas. 3912 Cedar Springs Road, to celebrate what
year hiatus, Reverend Horton Heat will headline
11 a.m. at Fair Park, 3809 Grand Ave. n April 6: Black Tie Dinner Kick-Off Event would have been the singer’s 51st birthday
Saturday night’s festival. For more information,
Black Tie Dinner shares news of the dinner on April 16. Hosted by Greg Castillo and
visit DeepEllumArtsFestival.com.
• April 3: Walk Against Hate while enjoying drinks, bites and beats. Reveal Macarena, the party will include drink specials,
The Anti-Defamation League invites the LGBTQ of the 2022 beneficiaries, the theme and a “Fiesta Market” with food by Locura Small
n April 2: Toast to Life
community to participate in its Walk Against other exciting news from 6:30-8:30 p.m. at Bites and merchandise from Que Rico Tees
Back in the Saddle is the theme of this year’s
Hate at 9 a.m. at American Airlines Center. On the Levee, 1108 Quaker St. $50. Tickets and other vendors, as well as a Selena look-
Toast to Life, Resource Center’s biggest party
Parking in arena lots is free, but the lots close at Eventbrite.com/e/black-tie-dinner-kick-off- alike contest and a show.
of the year. Live entertainment from DJ Blake
at 8:45 a.m. Booths include HRC. Register at tickets-301551999147.
Ward and the Breckenridge Band, dancing,
WalkAgainstHate.org/dallas.
a silent and live auction, bites from local
n April 6-23: Dry Powder
restaurants and more from 7-11 p.m. at The
n April 3-July 31: The Language of Second Thought Theatre’s season opener
Empire Room, 1225 N. Riverfront Blvd.
Beauty in African Art is about the price of success and the real Have an event coming up? Email your
Presenting over two hundred works of art, The cost of getting the deal done. Performances information to Managing Editor Tammye Nash
n April 2: Dixie Longate
Language of Beauty in African Art emphasizes at Bryant Hall, 3400 Blackburn St. at nash@dallasvoice.com or Senior Staff Writer
From the creator of Dixie’s Tupperware Party,
concepts of beauty through the languages SecondThoughtTheatre.com. David Taffet at taffet@dallasvoice.com by
the world premiere of Cherry Bombs & Bottle
and perspectives of indigenous African Monday at 5 p.m. for that week’s issue.
Rockets. Bass Hall, 525 Commerce St., Fort
communities. Kimbell Art Museum, 3333 Camp Look for extended listings online at
Worth at 7:30 p.m. Tickets at BassHall.com.
Bowie Blvd., Fort Worth. KimbellArt.org. DallasVoice.com
04.01.22 █ dallasvoice 23Jenny Block
GIRL ON GIRLS
Living ‘horn up,’ but not always sations, and, yes I admit it, I had a really
good time.
I thought I was an extrovert — until One evening I met a chef who was at
I met my wife. I enjoy people. I talk to that night’s event on her own, and so we
strangers. I love speaking in front of large spent the entire evening together and
groups. But I also can get my energy eas- had a blast. The next day, I struck up a
ily zapped, and I would much prefer an conversation with the girl in the salon
amazing conversation with one person chair next to me when I was getting a
than small talk with lots of people. haircut, and she ended up joining me for
I am, it turns out, an extroverted intro- an event that evening. We had the best
vert. time. So much so that I learned to like
When my wife and I first met, she pinot noir.
loved how easily I fit into her friend And, the next day, I walked up to two
group. But one night she complained women who happened to be standing
that I was “holding court:” “You just outside of my hotel and asked if they al-
stayed in one spot and waited for people ready had a Lyft ordered for the event,
to come to you,” she said. and if so, might I join them. We shared
She felt the move was snobby. I felt like the ride and the day. We talked and
I wasn’t imposing myself on people. laughed and had a great time drinking
She lives to work a room, and I love too much and not eating nearly enough.
that about her. I will happily work one The next day, my friend arrived, and,
when required. But I have no need to. as always, we spent the rest of the week-
At her big promotion party, I went end attached at the hip and continuing
from person to person with her and to meet lots of great people, all the while
made the right jokes and told charming eating and drinking all manner of won-
stories. But, if I had my druthers, I would derful things.
have stood in one spot and spoken to And when the festival closed and we
anyone who spoke to me and hoped for said good-bye to our new friends and
at least one connection deep enough to one another, I felt grateful for my abili-
allow for conversation beyond shop talk ty to honor who I am and still push my
and the weather. comfort zone so that I never miss out. I
The great thing about being an extro- When my wife looks at a room — well, title. But the thing is, it’s true. People I am equally grateful for a partner who
vert is that you get your energy from she just talks to people. I envy that. And talked to about it found the idea so relat- respects and loves me — whether or not
being around others, and so you are sometimes, I channel that. But mostly, I able that I wrote a book about it.) I’m feeling horn up that day or not.
driven to connect with them. But when muster it. “That Unicorn” is the person who
being around too many people drains
you, it can be hard to muster the oomph
If you saw me in person, you’d likely
describe as an extrovert. I’m good with
walks into a room and everyone wants
to be around. They make everyone feel
this week’s solution
to insert yourself into conversations and people. I’m easy going and friendly. I’ve good about themselves. They are con-
already-established groups at parties or never met a stranger, and I enjoy getting fident and open and friendly, and they
events. to know people and what they love and love getting to know people.
Now, anyone who knows me in real what makes them tick. They live life, well, horn up.
life — or even who reads my writing But here’s the thing: Just because It’s not that I’m not “That Unicorn.”
about all my many adventures — is like- someone is good at something, that It’s not that I’m faking it. It’s just that my
ly shaking their head as they read this. doesn’t mean they find it easy to do. But inner introvert sometimes needs a little
“You’re not shy,” they’re saying, with a I don’t mind a challenge. pep talk. Sometimes she even does need
roll of their eyes. Since I do travel and go to events alone, to fake it, at least to get the ball rolling.
And they’re right. I’m not shy. I have made that challenge one I have And knowing that we all have “That
It’s just that when I look at a room, I to accept, unless I want to spend all my Unicorn” inside us helps us to do that.
think, “Who will welcome an intrusion, time not speaking to a soul (which some- And having a partner who seems to al-
and who might make for good compa- times I do) or go to a party and stand in ways be able to do it and yet still support
ny?” I’m looking for an energy boost the corner alone (which I do not do). my not doing it doesn’t hurt either.
rather than a zap. So, I put myself out there. I just do it in I recently went to the Charleston Wine
And, yes, I am an overthinker: my own way. and Food Festival. Although one of my
“Are they in a private conversation?” I channel what I like to call “That Uni- besties was meeting me there in a few █ browse █ submit
“Will they want to talk to me?” corn.” days, I had a few events to tackle alone.
For a more complete Community To submit an item for inclusion in
“Should I just wait and see who wan- (Pardon what might appear as a I knew I would miss out if I kept to my- Calendar online, visit the Community Calendar, visit
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