WORK! UBE's Vogue Academy offers community along with dance lessons - By Rich Lopez, page 8 - Dallas Voice
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You better WORK! UBE’s Vogue Academy offers community along with dance lessons By Rich Lopez, page 8
1825 Market Center Blvd., Suite 240, Dallas TX 75207 | 214-754-8710 | dallasvoice.com February 24, 2023 | Volume 39 | Issue 42 PUBLISHER Leo Cusimano, leo@dallasvoice.com MANAGING EDITOR Tammye Nash, nash@dallasvoice.com SENIOR STAFF WRITER David Taffet, taffet@dallasvoice.com STAFF WRITER Rich Lopez, rich@dallasvoice.com PROOF READER Philip Burton CONTRIBUTORS Chris Azzopardi, Sean Baugh, Gary Bellomy, Jenny Block, Joey Casiano, Jesus Chairez, Lawrence Ferber, Januari Fox, Hardy Haberman, Scott Huffman, Lisa Keen, Mark Lowry, Jonathon McCellan, Cassie Nova, Dr. Josh, Josh Robbins, Gilberto Rodriguez, James Russell, Howard Lewis Russell, Terri Schlichenmeyer, Leslie McMurray, Gregg Shapiro, Casey Williams ADVERTISING DIRECTOR Chad Mantooth, mantooth@dallasvoice.com CONTENT MARKETING SPECIALIST Mathew Dominguez, mathew@dallasvoice.com NATIONAL REPRESENTATIVE National Advertising Representative Todd Evans, Rivendell Media Inc. | 908-232-2021 ART DIRECTOR Kevin Thomas, thomas@dallasvoice.com MULTIMEDIA Jimmy Bartlett, Website Management Israel Luna, DVtv Video Producer Tom Roma, DVtv Producer; Joseph Herrera, Producer DVtv Hosts Regina Lyn, Larry The Fairy, Corry Williams CIRCULATION DIRECTOR Linda Depriter, distribution@dallasvoice.com FOUNDERS Robert Moore | Don Ritz AFFILIATIONS | MEMBERSHIPS Associated Press - Associate Member Certified LGBT Business Enterprise © 2023 Voice Publishing Company, Inc. All rights reserved. Reprint rights are available by written consent of the publisher. Dallas Voice is published every Friday. Additional copies may be purchased for $1, at the Dallas Voice office. Dallas Voice may be distributed only by authorized independent distributors. No person may, without prior written permission of Dallas Voice, take more than one copy of each weekly issue. Subscriptions via First Class Mail are available: Three months (13 consecutive issues), $69. Six months (26 consecutive issues), $92. One year (52 consecutive issues), $138. To subscribe call 214-754-8711. Paid advertising copy represents the claim(s) of advertisers. Bring inappropriate claims to the attention of the publisher. Dallas Voice reserves the right to enforce its own judgments regarding the suitability of advertising copy, illustrations and/or photographs. Unsolicited manuscripts are accepted by email only. To obtain a copy of our guidelines for contributors, send a request by email to the managing editor at editor@dallasvoice.com. 02.24.23 █ dallasvoice 3
Bites from our blog WHAT’S THE TEA: DallasVoice.com Construction site work begins at Resource Center’s Oak Lawn Place Apartments project (Photo courtesy of Resource Center) Debbie Gibson “dance artist of the decade” Kristine W and local favorite Jada Pinkett Fox as emcee. to headline MetroBall 16 Pre-sale tickets for MetroBall 16 are avail- ’80s pop superstar Debbie Gibson is re- able online now at GDMAF.org/MetroBall. turning to Dallas as headliner for MetroBall 16, — Tammye Nash officials with the Greg Dollgener Memorial AIDS announced this week. MetroBall is GDMAF’s Site work begins at Resource largest fundraising event each year, and this Center’s Oak Lawn Place year the event once again kicks off Dallas Pride weekend, taking place Friday night, June 2, at housing project S4, 3911 Cedar Springs Road. Resource Center officials this week said Joining Gibson in the MetroBall 16 enter- that construction site work has already begun tainment lineup are Billboard magazine’s 1990s on the center’s planned LGBTQIA-affirming Debbie Gibson (Photo by Nick Spanos) 4 dallasvoice.com █ 02.24.23
Obituary █ Adoptable / BRANDY Tanya “BJ huge talent on the dance floor. Her ener- out in a play yard and you’ll find she has plenty of energy to keep Laray” getic style earned her nicknames such as up and play with her people friends and other dogs. She does well Halle “the dancing dynamo” and “Happy Feet.” with kids, too, so bring the whole family down to the shelter to Tanya She was a fan favorite in shows around the meet her. Brandy would love to have a big, fenced-in yard, but a Metroplex, around the state and around low traffic apartment could work also. Halle, known to the country as she traveled with a troupe of Adult dogs and cats are normally a $75 adoption fee from the SPCA her fans as dancing women often led by the first-ever of Texas. Puppies and kittens under the age of six months are $150. dancing DJ National Lady of the Year Connie McLain. Adoption fees vary for small mammals, equestrian and livestock. BJ Laray, BJ won the National Lady of the Year title Fee includes spay/neuter surgery, age-appropriate vaccinations, passed in 1992, alongside another DFW dancer, 1992 a heartworm test for dogs six months and older and a FIV/FeLV away National Butch Lady of the Year Jazzi Bleu, test for cats four months and older, initial flea/tick preventative Tuesday, who this week memorialized her friend on and heartworm preventative, a microchip, 30 days of PetHealth Feb. 21, in social media: “You could out dance any drag Insurance provided by PetHealth, a free 14-day wellness exam Houston queen in that era but remained humble. You with VCA Animal Hospitals, a rabies tag and a free leash. The Jan- following earned their respect, and everyone that met Rees Jones Animal Care Center is open to the public seven days a a lengthy you loved your whole being, your positive week, noon-6 p.m. Appointments are required for foster animals Meet Brandy, a 56-pound lump of love a pittie mix who has been battle with metastatic breast cancer. vibes, always smiling even on dark days. and animal housed in the Russell E. Dealey Animal Rescue Center. patiently waiting for a forever family to adopt her at the SPCA of Although small of stature, “BJ” was known The dancing DJ never missed a beat on the Please browse available animals at SPCA.org/FindAPet and visit Texas. Brandy is a little snuggler and loves getting lots of attention for her huge smile, her huge spirit and her dance floor or while playing our music.” SPCA.org/DogAdopt to inquire about a dog or SPCA.org/CatAdopt — a few tasty treats would be greatly appreciated, too. Get her to inquire about a cat affordable housing project, Oak Lawn Place celebrates Resource Center’s 40th anniversary. entirely by LGBTQIA+ volunteers, is 1-888-OUT- source has told Dallas Voice both the victim Apartments. — David Taffet LGBT (1-888-688-5428), with a dedicated and the suspect were dancers at the bar, but The apartments are set to open at the website at LGBTcomingOUT.org. All services are police have not confirmed that information. end of 2024. Watch for announcements on free and confidential. Police said that the incident started as h groundbreaking parties and other events LGBTQ Coming Out hotline — Tammye Nash an argument between the two men, then coming soon. launches this week escalated into a fight. The victim then ran into Meanwhile, more than half a dozen people The LGBT National Help Center officially the suspect with his vehicle, and the suspect told stories to the camera on Monday, Feb. launched its newest program, the LGBT National 1 dead following shooting began shooting, striking the victim multiple 13. Coming Out Support Hotline, Tuesday, Feb. 21, on S. Riverfront times. The hours of recording will be used for focusing specifically on the concerns of those One man was killed early Sunday morning, Police said the case will be referred to the several projects, but first will be a five-minute struggling with coming out issues — regardless Feb. 19, and a second arrested following a Dallas County grand jury. They did not identify film about the center’s history that will debut at of age or how each person defines that process. shooting outside the newly-opened nightclub either man. Toast to Life on April 1. This year, Toast to Life The dedicated toll-free phone number, staffed The View on South Riverfront Boulevard. 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VOICES OPINIONS FROM THE COMMUNITY A target on transgender backs You don’t have to ‘get’ across the ber who demands books about trans- people. Maybe your gender identity is so country gender people be yanked from school entrenched that you can’t fathom being trans folks to understand are fix- libraries, every media talking head who trans or non-binary. Fine. they are human ated on uses their platform to dehumanize trans But the thing is, you don’t have to harming people — they all contribute to a culture understand someone to treat them hu- I just read an article about the mur- transgen- of violence where transgender people manely and allow them to live in dignity. der of Brianna Ghey, a transgender der peo- are unsafe. You know what being human feels like, teenager found stabbed to death in a ple. Every Which is, of course, the point. What and, if you’re a member of the LGB com- park in England. As NBC reports, single one was it that Sen. Mitt Romney, R-Utah, munity, you know what it feels like to Ghey had “visible stab wounds,” and, of these said about “self-deportation”? That if we be dehumanized for who you are. So do just in case you didn’t think this story measures, make the lives of immigrants horrible trans folks. could get any worse, “Police said they as well enough they’ll just leave on their own? You’d think that even cisgender het- have arrested two teenagers, both 15 as the an- That’s what is erosexual people would get that most years old, on suspicion of the murder.” ti-trans being advocated basic principle: Treat others how you My god. These are children. All of for trans people: would like to be treated. Very basic stuff. them. rhetoric fueling debate self-era- But instead, it seems like people are al- Perhaps many in the U.S. have become on the issue, serves to sure. And lowing themselves to believe that public numb to stories about kids killing kids spread the message anti-trans schools are somehow gender transition (our legislators certainly have), but this that transgender bigots don’t factories with teachers intent on creat- is truly horrific. people are, at care if that erasure ing a fully trans student body so that … I don’t have any further details about best, “icky” manifests itself What? the suspects. I don’t know if they did it, and, at worst, as staying in I don’t know what the end goal is in and I don’t know why they did it if they subhuman the closet or if this wild theory, actually. To destroy the are, indeed, guilty. and danger- it ends in death very idea of gender, maybe? There’s no I do know that, scrolling through my ous. by suicide or logic to follow, so that’s my best guess. newsfeed, just about every article related Reading murder. In an op-ed in USA Today, Vanessa to transgender people was “Texas gov- about Bri- And as Gil- and Michael Anspach, parents of a trans- ernor backs transgender ban for college anna Ghey’s lian Branstetter, gender child in Arizona, write about the sports,” and “South Dakota governor murder sur- a communications pending anti-trans legislation in Ari- signs bill prohibiting gender-affirming rounded by strategist at the zona, “It’s another bill that, on its face, treatment for transgender minors,” and these stories really American Civil Liber- is aimed at harming our trans kids by “Ban on health care for transgender crystalizes the reality ties Union, points out on instilling fear in others that schools are youth passed by Utah Legislature,” and that every politician who Twitter, in places that lack somehow ‘transitioning’ their kids be- “Arizona rep. proposes anti-transgender introduces anti-trans bills, ev- self-ID laws — meaning trans- hind their backs. It also aims to ‘protect’ ‘women’s bill of rights.’” ery religious leader who portrays trans gender people cannot legally change adults in schools who care more about It goes on and on. State legislatures people as evil, every school board mem- their IDs, including their names — trans- their politics than about treating others gender people are further marginalized with dignity and basic human decency.” OF FE WE N R B OW when newspapers print their “real” Yep. And this is true for all of this OT OX TO names and use the wrong pronouns. pending legislation. It’s all bullshit. It’s Tired of O ! Families can essentially do the same if the result of unserious people being SHAVING? they did not accept or support their dead relative’s identity. elected to do a serious job for which they are unqualified and in which they are We Can Help! “Trans people like Brianna are fighting uninterested. to tell the truth when the whole world They just want to use their power to Smashing High Prices! Serving the LGBT Community since 2011! wants us to tell a lie,” Branstetter post- hurt the people they don’t like. And ed to Twitter. “We are routinely censored transgender kids are getting hit hardest Call Today for your and penalized for that truth. And too of all. █ The Largest Selection of Cabinets, Doors, FREE often our death is seen as an opportuni- D’Anne Witkowski is a writer living in Vanities and Tubs in the DFW Area Consultation! ty — by police, the media, and even our Michigan with her wife and son. She has Save 40% - 60% 682-593-1442 own families — to erase that truth.” been writing about LGBTQ+ politics for htgtelectrolysis.com Look, maybe even you, dear reader, nearly two decades. Follow her on Twitter @ 2610 West Miller Rd • Garland • 972-926-0100 5832 E. Belknap • Haltom City • 871-831-3600 4245 N. Central Expy. are someone who doesn’t “get” trans MamaDWitkowski. Suite 450, Dallas, TX www.builderssurplustexas.com 6 dallasvoice.com █ 02.24.23
Live…work…vogue! BLACK HISTORY MONTH UBE’s Vogue Academy have a time and place to come out and practice. JRock described it as a time of puts the power in the pose fellowship and a way for the partici- pants to find their tribe. RICH LOPEZ | Staff writer But Jrock saw a bigger potential. rich@dallasvoice.com “Once I came along, I declared that I was going to have a ball,” he said. “We trike a pose; there’s were gonna have a mainstream ballroom nothing to it. At least, called Girls Just Wanna Have Fun. I got that’s the intention every there in May 2016, and we were gonna Friday night at United have the ball in June. So we had four Black Ellument’s Vogue weeks to get ready for it.” Academy. The weekly The ball came and went, but the stu- class held at Resource dents kept coming back for more. Center teaches the fun- At that time, UBE was based in Deep damentals of vogueing, Ellum. but it has also become a place for com- “We had the space for it, and since munity — proving the power of dance they were coming in weekly, we called it and expression. Vogue Academy and started structuring United Black Ellument is a program it since it was becoming a weekly thing,” at the Center geared toward empower- JRock said. “The other founder of the ing young, Black, same-gender-loving academy is Boss Lady Jakai Agacii.” men. Director Jalenzski Brown oversees the happenings for UBE, including the Deep in vogue academy. “There would be no academy without Then UBE left Deep Ellum to move Jalenzski,” said Cedrick Johnson, who into Resource Center’s current build- goes by Jrock. ing on Cedar Springs Road. Brown and In turn, there wouldn’t be the acad- Johnson were concerned that the change emy without Jrock. He serves as the would affect the academy and the stu- founder of today’s iteration of Vogue dents who were comfortable going to Academy and volunteers with Resource having fun and serving that self-expres- York City by Black and Latino commu- the original space. It didn’t. Center to teach his weekly students. He sion,” JRock said. “When we started to nities. The scene was created as an alter- “More kids kept coming out to the also founded the ballroom kiki scene formalize it, it grew into this big thing.” native to the drag pageants happening scene, and they kept hearing about it,” that stems from the academy. in the 1970s. Today, drag queen Crystal Jrock said. Brown and Johnson host the classes, A quick history LaBeija is often credited with founding Today, the academy breaks down the but their impact goes well beyond the ballroom culture some 50 years ago. elements of vogue. This is the place to RC doors. The ballroom scene — or ball culture “The House of LaBeija was created go to “mess up and look silly” before at- “The most important part of all this is — is a queer subculture started in New as an opposition to the racism that was tempting an appearance at the balls with happening in drag pageants at that no training. No one wants to look messy time,” said Jrock, whose full ballroom at a ball. Basic ballroom glossary stakes. According to Jrock Juicy Couture Ebony, kikis function for newer or younger name is Jrock Juicy Couture Ebony. At the academy, students learn ballroom artists or “children” bringing in new Houses are found families that com- hands, catwalk, spins, schwams (“not Ballroom culture has its own language styles to the scene before hitting the actual pete in balls but also serve as a support shablams”) and dips (“not deathdrops”). which has permeated its way into mainstream ballroom runways. system for their members. Houses are “When we put it all together, we let culture. Shows like Pose, RuPaul’s Drag Race • House: Formed within the community, a and Legendary have brought those terms into led by “mothers” and “fathers.” it flow with club house music and com- house serves as a found family and support mentating,” Jrock explained. “We open the light. So what do they mean? Here’s a system led by a mother or father. Often, the primer of a few basic ballroom terms. house supports young adults starting in the Academy origins up the floor for freestyling.” • Ballroom: Emerging from the Harlem scene but also needing resources for daily life. Some have come with two left feet, Renaissance, this is the umbrella term for the • Icon: A revered classification that sur- “UBE was hosting ‘Get Your Life’ ball- and in three to six months, they are culture and scene, whereas, balls are the seri- passes legendary status. ous formal competitions among the houses. room practice back in 2014,” Brown said. snatching trophies, he added. • Legend: A winner of multiple trophies with “It started as a monthly thing until JRock Vogue Academy though is not just for • 007: A free agent in ballroom who is not an extensive ballroom history, a veteran of the part of a house. scene. came in and reimagined it entirely.” UBE members. Friday nights are open to • Kiki: A competition with less serious • Walk: To enter a ballroom category Back then, the ballroom kids would anyone wanting to learn how to let their 8 dallasvoice.com █ 02.24.23
body go with the flow. balls. It shows that All photos courtesy of Resource Center “We never shut down the academy. the work of UBE and United Black Ellument It’s open to everyone,” Brown said. “All has extended,” he kinds of people come in on Friday night, added. and we’re creating these bonds.” Brown and Jrock note that the scene Love is the message really took off in 2019. They were What starts in the Vogue Academy hosting three to four certainly doesn’t stay there. As its scene mini-kiki balls and grows, so does the scene outside Friday mini balls a year, nights. with people com- But what Brown sees is more than ing from all over the vogue moves and music; he sees a to compete. By the community of people coming together end of 2019, they through love and culture. teamed up with “It’s this network of people not only DJ Rudeboy and Marty’s for UBE and RC, but for people in the Live for a Wednesday scene. When we formalized Vogue Acad- “Our emy, more re- networking spreads sources were way beyond Texas now,” Jrock poured into it. said. “It’s kind of underground And we started but all over the world, and our the Gulf Coast balls have up to 500 people. Kiki Coalition We’ve had a kiki ball at the Dal- which now has las Museum of Art, so even in- almost 900 mem- stitutions outside the scene are bers.” Catwalk of fame finding us.” Plus, UBE still Both Brown and Johnson have deep has to do its thing. night gig. Today, Vogue Academy and the pride in not only the scene and its legacy Brown ex- “By Christmas, we had Wednesday night scene at Marty’s keep but UBE’s part in all of it. plained, “It may Wednesdays for kiki vogue nights, with Dallas’ ballroom culture on the map. “All this happened right here at UBE,” look like we’re having fun all the all these categories that allowed our Some have graduated, if you will, and Brown said. “These kids are serious and time, but we are a movement that is here scene to express themselves,” Jrock said. have taken their talents beyond. House continue dancing when we all leave the to enable and empower young Black Then the coronavirus hit hard, but of Ebony’s XaPariis, a VA alum, compet- Resource Center. We’re proud of this men. The fun brings people out, but they Vogue Academy still kept it going in its ed on HBO’s Legendary with House of scene but also proud that they find fami- come with their stories and need help, so own way: “We learned how to do ball- Balmain’s Cali Dequan, also from Dallas. ly in this ballroom culture.” █ we get to do that too. room in a pandemic,” Jrock declared. Jrock mentioned that many performers Visit UBEDallas.org for more about Vogue “But it’s really beautiful to see how Zoom and virtual balls kept the spirit have gone on to snatch titles and tro- Academy. Watch videos of the local scene and the scene has grown and people forming and love alive. phies in other big ballroom cities such as more at Jrock’s The TensOrChops Television their own organizations and doing the Atlanta and New York. Network on YouTube. 02.24.23 █ dallasvoice 9
Dallas prepares for a quiet city council election ON THE BALLOT The new city council will look a lot like the old city council, and the mayor will run unopposed DAVID TAFFET | Senior Staff Writer taffet@dallasvoice.com lection Day for the new Dallas city coun- cil and mayor is Sat- urday, May 6. Early voting runs Monday, April 24 through Tues- day, May 2. And the new Dallas City Coun- cil looks as though it will be very similar to the current city council. Omar Narvaez, above, Chad West, top right and Annise Parker Mayor Eric Johnson, who was elected to his first of a possible two four-year deputy mayor pro tem; Chad West was Houston’s first terms in 2019, is seeking reelection. mayor pro tem last year. out council mem- While the office was hotly contested Both have drawn opponents in this ber was Annise with about 10 viable candidates last time election who are known in their districts. Parker who was Johnson will be running unopposed this Former City Councilwoman Moni- elected in 1997, year. Former Dallas ISD superintendent ca Alonso, whom Narvaez originally four years after Michael Hinojosa considered running, defeated and who has run against him Dallas began rou- but withdrew from the race in January. in each of his subsequent elections, has tinely electing The last time the office of Dallas may- filed to run against him again this year, LGBTQ council or was unopposed was in 1967, when too. He has two additional opponents as members and same-name, different-spelling Mayor well: first-time candidate Sidney Robles went on to be- Erik Jonsson was seeking his second Martinez and Tony Carrillo, who ran for come the city’s term. city council in the three previous elec- mayor. She’s now “It is the greatest honor of my life to tions. president and serve as the mayor of my hometown,” In District 1, Mariana Griggs, former CEO of the LGBT Johnson said in a statement. “We have wife of former City Councilman Scott Victory Fund. achieved significant, measurable results Griggs, has filed to run against West. A When it comes for the residents of Dallas over the past third candidate — Albert Mata — is also to LGBTQ repre- four years, and I look forward to con- running. sentation on the council this year, “We’re Nick Hellyar. tinuing this incredible progress in my West is popular in his district, but so a little antsy in Houston,” Parker said Unlike Dallas races where an incum- second term.” was Scott Griggs. The question in that this week. bent who is term-limited can sit out a Chief among his accomplishments is a race is whether Mariana Griggs has time Gay City Councilman Robert Gal- race and then run again, in Houston decrease in violent crimes. Dallas is the in the short election season to attract legos, who is term limited out of office, candidates are then banned for life from only major city in the U.S. to have scored enough support to force a run-off. is running for mayor of Houston. But running for the same position. a decrease in crime since the pandemic. Fort Worth is adding two seats to he’s behind in fundraising; four other Two other gay incumbents are run- Two of the 14 council members — Ca- its city council because of population candidates have more than $1 million in ning for city council seats in Texas this sey Thomas and Adam McGough — are growth. The Census Bureau estimated the bank. Victory Fund hasn’t endorsed spring. Jonathan Estrada is running for a in their fourth terms and can’t run again the city had 935,000 residents in 2021, in that race yet, but Parker said there’s second term in Pasadena and Jalen McK- this year. making that city about the size Dallas time, because Houston’s local elections ee-Rodriguez is up for reelection in San Both of the gay men currently on the was in 1979. aren’t until November. Antonio. council, who have both filed to run for Since Joel Burns left the council in “He has to step it up,” Parker said of Estrada, Parker said, “scratched out another term in office, have been recog- 2014, Fort Worth has had no LGBTQ rep- Gallegos. a win last time.” He has two challeng- nized with leadership positions during resentation. That will continue at least She said two newcomers are running ers this race, but Parker said he’s done a their tenures: Omar Narvaez serves as one more election cycle. for the council — Mario Castillo and DALLAS, Page 20 10 dallasvoice.com █ 02.24.23
Laser focused on HIV IN AUSTIN Groups from across the state to the table.” opportunities to catch HIV early. will converge on Austin to Jones has filed legislation on HIV/ “We’ve got all the tools,” she said. “We lobby lawmakers AIDS issues, and Prism Health North just need to start using them and get past Texas is sending a bus to the Capitol on the stigma.” March 27 to lobby for the bills he’s filed. This bill isn’t as controversial as oth- DAVID TAFFET | Senior Staff Writer Fox said participants will be most fo- er legislation, so, Fox said, she’s hop- taffet@dallasvoice.com cused on HB 2235, which would make ing Advocacy Day will help push the an HIV test part of a standard STD bill to get a hearing in committee and ep. Vinton Jones — screening in Texas. maybe get it to the House floor. But she the first member Currently, you have to ask your doctor acknowledged bills often take multiple of the state House to add an HIV test, or your doctor has to sessions before they become law. of Representatives ask if you’d like to include it, Fox said. Jones was assigned to the Public who is out about his To ask for an HIV test, you have to know Health Committee, so that increases the HIV-positive status it’s not automatically administered and chance of a hearing on the bill. — is already making be comfortable enough with your doctor Another bill Jones is planning to file is a difference in the to ask for the test. a decriminalization bill. Texas Legislature, advocate Januari Fox, Doctors, on the other hand, generally “HIV is in criminal statute now for the policy, advocacy and community don’t routinely include an HIV test for transmission,” Fox said. “It’s considered engagement director for Prism Health all patients but instead make assump- assault.” North Texas, said this week. “Vinton,” State Rep. Venton Jones is the first tions about who needs the test. Last session, one bill would have in- openly HIV-positive person elected to she added, “brings something different Fox said that leads to many missed the Texas House HIV, Next Page 02.24.23 █ dallasvoice 11
HIV, From Previous Page creased the penalties for transmitting HIV by upgrading it to aggravated as- sault, making it a felony. That bill died in committee. Criminalization is something we hear about when someone with HIV spits at a medical worker. But, Fox said, “That doesn’t match up with the science. It’s not how HIV is transmitted.” And, she added, “HIV is not a death Januari Fox sentence. It’s a treatable, manageable, to legislators about their own personal chronic disease.” experiences. Jones said she is trying get HIV re- Fox explained the schedule: Two vir- moved from the criminal code altogeth- tual trainings will be held on March 9 er. and March 23, including a legislation Then there are budget items. During 101 session and information on specific the pandemic, the ADAP program, issues. which funds HIV medications for those “We’ll stay laser-focused on HIV,” Fox who don’t have insurance and can’t assured. afford the medication, had a $36 mil- On Monday, March 27, a bus will lion deficit. Fox said it was a combina- leave Dallas early from a central location tion of money getting shifted around to where participants can park for the day. deal with COVID as well as an ordering All costs will be covered. glitch. Once in Austin, groups from around Another issue is the recent approval the state will meet at First United Meth- of Cabenuva, a once-every-other-month odist Church, a block from the Capitol, injectable treatment for HIV. Fox called where breakfast will be served. Jones that medication groundbreaking. An in- will give a rallying speech, and T-shirts jectable helps anyone who has trouble will be distributed. staying compliant with daily medica- “We want to get over to the Capitol by tion, those who don’t want the sigma of 11 a.m. for a proclamation,” Fox said. She having bottles of medicine around their noted that when the LGBT Chambers of house, the homeless who have no place Commerce recently went to the Capi- to store medications and others, Fox tol, the proclamation welcoming them said. didn’t pass. She hopes for a smoother But Cabenuva is expensive, and HIV day than the Chamber members had. advocates are looking for funding from Lunch and advocacy will follow. Ev- the state. eryone will be assigned to groups that They’re also looking for a change in will lobby together. No first-timers will rules. Currently those participating in lobby alone or even be expected to speak. the ADAP program have to be re-cer- Appointments will already be made for tified as eligible every six months. The each group. proposed rule would change that to Fox said they’ll wrap up by 5 p.m. once a year. The six-month renewal is a “If you want to come for a first time barrier to treatment for many because of and just watch the process, there’s no transportation, child care, taking time off pressure,” she said. “We want to capture work and more. folks interested in these issues and de- Fox said Prism Health North Texas velop them as advocates.” and other large HIV agencies across the What she’s seen happen is a newcom- state have people lobbying in the Capitol er will watch during the first office visit every week the Legislature is in session. and then later in the afternoon become They provide legislators with statistics comfortable enough to tell their own sto- and proposals so they have the facts ry in another office. about HIV. HIV advocacy days have happened in Now, they have the additional benefit the Texas Capitol since 2011. In 2021, ad- of having a colleague who is HIV-posi- vocacy day was virtual, so this is the first tive and who talks about it openly. time lobbying is back in person, meeting But lobbying day will bring people legislators face-to-face, since the pan- from around the state to Austin to talk demic. █ 12 dallasvoice.com █ 02.24.23
All that glitters MUSIC ON STAGE Queer Aussie Betty Who heads to Dallas with opener Shea Coulee.jpg Sounds of Pride This is a big week for concerts with a whole lot of Pride. Pop, drag and classical sounds can be part of your gay agenda for the week. Along with Jake Wesley Rogers’ headlining show next Friday, March 3, these three shows add to a big queer week of music in Dallas all starting on the same day! — Rich Lopez March 2: Betty Who, Shea Coulee Queer Australian pop singer Betty Who headlines her The Big Tour in support of her Jake Wesley Rogers (Photo by Alex Stoddard) latest album. For the gay cherry on top, Drag Race royalty Shea Coulee steps in as Who’s Jake Wesley Rogers Before his headlining concert with opening act. Doors at 7 p.m. at the Echo Lounge and Music Hall. TicketMaster.com. moves into spotlight opener Stacey Ryan, and even before the tour started, Rogers spoke to Dallas March 2: Adore Delano RICH LOPEZ | Staff writer Voice about his message, his music and Hard to believe that Adore Delano is out rich@dallasvoice.com how books are just the absolute best. promoting her fourth album. The former Drag Race and American Idol contestant brings her Party Your World Tour to Dallas present- he queer stars have Dallas Voice: As of press time, you aren’t ed by LGBTQ promoters Obsessed. 7 p.m. been in alignment on tour yet, but how are you feeling at The Kessler in Oak Cliff. TheKessler.org. for singer Jake about leading up to Peace Love and Wesley Rogers. Pluto? Jake Wesley Rogers: There’s a lot March 2-5: A Symphony Cantata of creative work, and I’ve just been pro- featuring Nicholas Phan Now on his fourth cessing things, but it’ll hit me. I’m a very Grammy-nominated tenor and out singer EP release, LOVE, Phan will join with sopranos Susanna Philips reflective person, so I try to step back which came out in from my experiences and try to witness and Sari Gruber for this Dallas Symphony October and with it. Some things can’t be processed, and Orchestra concert. Paul McCreesh conducts the help of a fellow queer musician, you just have to get through it. the performance that will feature works by the young pop artist has graduated to Mendelssohn and Parry. The concert will You’ve been in the business for a min- also feature the Dallas Symphony Chorus headliner on his first tour which kicks ute, but a headline tour is certainly a and the Lay Family Organ. off Friday, Feb. 24, in Tampa. The Peace milestone. When you realize that this DallasSymphony.org. Love and Pluto Tour comes to Dallas to is your dream, it has been exciting. It’s the House of Blues on March 3 in the just really fun, and I’m going to roll with it what’s under that. That’s where I’m at Cambridge Room. and accept it. It’s this beautiful mix of ex- now anyway. With his glam style and musicality, citement and terror and hope. I’m ready Do you have plans for a full album Rogers has gotten the obvious com- to play these songs and find the people release? I’m actually finishing my first parisons to another flamboyant music who want to hear them. album. There’s been a lot of stuff I’m icon. But while Rogers stands on such Being a reflective person, what does afraid to sway for a while and a lot of shoulders, he’s carving his own path on your music have to say? I’ve been in a stuff people haven’t heard, so it’s good his own terms. He’s also part of a new different place in all the music I put out in timing for that. All of it stems from my the past year. So I think all the song- story connecting to a bigger story. queer wave in music that’s brought us writing comes from a deeper and truer Lil Nas X, Orville Peck, Kim Petras and Books are kind of a big deal for you. palace. So I keep digging, because I feel Allison Ponthier, just to name a few. like I need something bigger and to see GLITTERS, Page 20 02.24.23 █ dallasvoice 13
Protecting parental rights FAMILY MATTERS Non-bio mom vs. sperm donor In De- case is a ‘call to action’ cember 2021, Wilson n Oklahoma judge has filed for ruled that a married, divorce, nonbiological mom claim- has no parental rights ing there to the child she and were no her wife created children and were raising “of” the together, but marriage the couple’s sperm donor does. The but that case shows both why LGBTQ families Vaughn is need to take extra steps to protect them- the father selves, and why there is a critical need to the one child born during the mar- for reform of parentage law across the riage. At the same time, she obtained country. a Victim Protection Order against Wil- liams, alleging domestic abuse and ban- ning Williams from contact with Wilson or their son for five years. Regardless of the allegations there — which Williams has denied but that are not available to the public — that is a separate matter from whether Williams is a legal parent. Vaughn also filed a motion in 2022 to establish his parental rights, and, on Feb. 13, 2023, Oklahoma County Dis- trict Court Judge Lynne McGuire ruled in his favor, denying that Williams is the child’s parent. The ruling explained that “The Uni- form Parentage Act that Oklahoma ad- HALLELOO, it’s opted was enacted in 2006 and does not Polly Crozier take into account same-sex marriage, and there is no presumption that the Kris Williams and Rebekah Wilson wife of the mother is automatically the married in 2019 and had a son later that presumed parent of a child born during OUT! VISIT year with the help of Harlan Vaughn, a the marriage.” Complete Visitors Guide to DFW gay man who agreed to be their sperm Polly Crozier, director of family ad- donor, court documents say. Wilson car- vocacy at LGBTQ legal organization LIVE ried the child, and both women’s names GLAD, told me, “This case highlights Dynamic Relocation Guide were placed on his birth certificate. The the vulnerabilities LGBTQ+ families child was given Williams’ last name, and their children still live with. Like EXPERIENCE and the two women jointly parented all family law matters, this story is com- Comprehensive Business Directory him for two years. plex, but the court’s conclusions are Wilson and Williams wanted their deeply concerning on several fronts.” child to know his donor, however, as The case hinges on whether same- Available in newsstands now! they had heard from other donor-con- sex married couples have the right to Visit us online at ceived people that this was important to the presumption of parentage, the legal them. They, therefore, let Vaughn meet principle long applied to heterosexu- www.OUTntx.com the child and spend time with him. RIGHTS, Page 18 16 dallasvoice.com █ 02.24.23
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RIGHTS, From Page 16 al couples that any child born within a of 2017.” marriage is presumed to be the child of Okla- both spouses. homa’s Crozier observed that McGuire “dis- parent- regarded the marital presumption of age laws, parentage that should have applied in like those this situation, finding that the presump- in 24 oth- tion does not apply to LGBTQ spouses. er states, The judge’s refusal to apply Oklahoma’s are based parentage statutes to this child because on the the decades-old law uses gendered lan- Uniform guage runs contrary to constitutional Parent- principles.” District Court Judge age Act, Lynne McGuire These principles, she explained, were model articulated in the U.S. Supreme Court parentage legislation developed by the rulings Obergefell v. Hodges, which es- Uniform Law Commission, a non-par- tablished nationwide marriage equality, tisan body of state lawmakers, judges, and Pavan v. Smith, which said both par- scholars, and lawyers. The UPA was first ents in a same-sex couple have the right developed in 1973, then updated in 2002 to be on their children’s birth certificates. to expand ways of determining legal “Those decisions affirmed that all mar- parentage for children born through as- ried people should be treated equally sisted reproduction and again in 2017 to and have equal access to the rights and ensure that state parentage laws remain responsibilities of marriage, including constitutional by providing equality and the marital presumption of parentage,” paths to parentage for LGBTQ families, Crozier said. among other changes. Despite those rulings, LGBTQ legal Seven states (California, Colorado, advocates have long advised that be- Connecticut, Maine, Rhode Island, Ver- cause not all states may honor that mar- mont and Washington) have adopted the ital presumption for same-sex couples, 2017 UPA or substantially similar legisla- even married nonbiological/nongesta- tion. Hawaii, Kansas and Massachusetts tional parents who are on their children’s have introduced bills this session to do birth certificates — an ability based on so. New Hampshire and New York have the marital presumption — should also also adopted some similar provisions. get a co-parent/second-parent adoption, Oklahoma’s parentage laws, however, court order of parentage or the equiva- and those of 10 other states — including lent. Texas — are still based on the 2002 UPA; Unlike birth certificates, these other many other states are further behind. actions legally establish — and don’t Crozer stressed, “This case is also a just record — a relationship between the painful reminder that LGBTQ+ families child and the parent and are guaranteed still need to make sure that they do ev- “full faith and credit” in all states. erything they can to protect their chil- Williams did not get a co-parent adop- dren, including completing co-parent tion, however. Because she could have adoptions.” pursued one but chose not to, McGuire She recommended that LGBTQ par- said in the ruling, that counted against ents consult the “What LGBTQ+ Fam- her claim. ilies Need to Know” guide (glad.org/ Williams’ attorney, Robyn Hopkins, post/faq-protect-your-family) created has told the media that they will appeal by GLAD, NCLR, COLAGE and Fami- the decision. ly Equality “to help families understand “Beyond the heartbreaking implica- what they can do now to protect their tions for this child, whose relationship children and their families, while we with one of their parents has now been continue to advocate for updated par- legally severed, this case should be a call entage laws across the country.” █ to action,” Crozier said. “States must en- Dana Rudolph is the founder and publish- sure their parentage laws are updated er of Mombian (mombian.com), a GLAAD and inclusive of LGBTQ families and Media Award-winning blog and resource di- their children, and there’s a model for rectory, with a searchable database of 1000+ doing so — the Uniform Parentage Act LGBTQ family books and more. 18 dallasvoice.com █ 02.24.23
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DALLAS, From Page 10 GLITTERS, From Page 13 good job and should win. council unless you care about potholes. Literature is everything to me. I think I was been loud and proud in pop music. McKee-Rodriguez was the first out Be passionate about it.” an author detailed by circumstance — ha- Have you thought at all about your Black man elected to office in Texas. She said she’s worked with city council ha. I stole that from Joni Mitchell. My truly place in this new queer wave of music Parker said he’s in his early 20s and has members who really wanted to be in the happiest place is disappearing into the in recent years? This is all a new concept done a good job. But he has six oppo- Legislature, and they didn’t make good world of an author or a book. which happened very fast. I wasn’t asking Technically you are an author — of songs. to be a part of all this, but it happened nents, so anything could happen there. city council members because they didn’t But what do you think it is that the writ- when it did, and these things merged “We want to see more LGBT folks step- care about garbage collection or other lo- ten word speaks to you so much? It’s sometimes. It’s incredible that I get to ping up to run,” Parker said, adding that cal issues that city councils deal with. do this, in this time, with my story. There kinda been my saving grace to discover she’s delighted to see McKee-Rodriguez “These are big expensive races,” Park- were so many who didn’t get to. Oscar Wilde and Maya Angelou and Mary and Estrada, also in his 20s, running as er continued. “In a citywide office in Oliver. Books connect me to a bigger art You seem to be in the queer gods’ favor. part of a new generation stepping up for Houston, you represent more people form, I think. Songs are basically a tweet, Another gay singer — Justin Tranter careers in politics. than the governors of 15 states.” but books are books. I certainly view them (Semi Precious Weapons) — signed Victory Fund recently ran a training in Parker said this is the year to watch as most sacred. you to his label. You almost opened for Plano for people considering a run, and, mayoral and local elections everywhere. Is there a book that, as a musician, you Ben Platt. You get the comparisons to while no new LGBTQ candidates are “It’s a big deal we have a Black lesbian recommend? Just Kids by Patti Smith Elton John. Oh, and your song “Hind- running for council in Dallas this year, running Chicago,” she said about Mayor is like a bible for me as an artist. She sight” was on the Bros soundtrack. Parker said, several were there eying up- Lori Lightfoot, who is up for reelection documents her journey into discovering The lessons I’m learning from all this are coming vacancies. on Tuesday, Feb. 28. what worked for her and the kismet when almost too many. There have been amaz- Victory Fund is seeing an increase this “Jane Castor,” Parker said, “should honoring her own path. Things mysteri- ing moments that have challenged me. I ously happen when you do so. It’s about think with all that, what I’m learning right year in LGBTQ candidates running for win without a problem. She’s doing a what it means to be an artist and how now is that I’m here to teach and sell my school boards, Parker said, as a reaction great job as mayor of Tampa.” That elec- hard it is. I think it’ll change anyone’s life story and keep my eyes calibrated toward to book bans, “don’t say gay” laws and tion will be held on March 7. my purpose. I think I now know more than to read that. other legislation under consideration in Parker said Victory Fund has also en- ever that I’m here to spread my message Florida, Texas and other states. dorsed Leslie Herod for mayor of Den- Toni Morrison once said, “The function of and love — and be fabulous. Parker’s advice to anyone running ver. She’d become the first woman elect- freedom is to free someone else.” I think books are how you free people. for office is this: “Political office is not a ed to that position. That election is on For tickets, visit Ticketmaster.com. Doors destination. It’s a tool. Don’t run for city April 4. █ Back to music, you’re blowing up at a at 7 p.m. time when many queer voices have 20 dallasvoice.com █ 02.24.23
PLAN YOUR WEEK - The Gay Agenda... Our LGBTQ community calendar! clash, turning well-intentioned neighbors into on four women who take over a Republican feuding enemies. Kalita Humphreys Theater, politician’s man cave and turn it into a sanctuary. 3636 Turtle Creek Blvd. DallasTheaterCenter.org. Trinity River Arts Center, 2600 N. Stemmons Fwy. KitchenDogTheater.org. n Through Feb. 26: MBS Productions: ‘Confessions of the Slave Nat Turner’ n March 7: Classic Chassis The play chronicles the trial and sentencing of Nat Classic Chassis Car Club meets 6-8 p.m. at Turner, the slave responsible for the first rebellion Ojeda’s, 4617 Maple Ave. in 1831 against white slaveholders. Addison Theatre Centre, 15650 Addison Road. Have an event coming up? Email your MBSProductions.info. information to Managing Editor Tammye Nash at nash@dallasvoice.com or Senior Staff Writer MARCH David Taffet at taffet@dallasvoice.com by Monday at 5 p.m. for that week’s issue. n March 2: Betty Who, Shea Coulee Look for extended listings online at The queer Australian pop star serves as headliner in DallasVoice.com support of her newest album Big! Drag Race royalty Shea Coulee opens. 7 p.m. at the Echo Lounge and Music Hall. LiveNation.com. Iconic drag performer Tasha Kohl hosts ICON Birthday Bash Sunday, Feb. 26, in The Rose Room. The show features Cassie Nova, Dina Jacobs, Chevelle Brooks and n March 2: Adore Delano Bubbalicious. Tickets range from $25-$35 and are available at the door. Doors open The former Drag Race and American Idol contestant at 5 p.m., and the show starts at 6 p.m. brings her Party Your World tour to Dallas presented by LGBTQ promoters Obsessed. 7 p.m. at The n Red for community events n Feb. 24-26: Modern Masterpieces Kessler in Oak Cliff. TheKessler.org. n Blue for arts and entertainment Texas Ballet Theater presents pieces by Bela n Purple for sports Bartok, Gustav Mahler and Philip Glass at the n March 2-4: ‘On Your Feet!’ n Green for nightlife Wyly Theatre, 2400 Flora St. ATTPAC.org. Broadway at the Center presents the story of n Orange for civic events and holidays Gloria Estefan. Winspear Opera House, 2403 n Feb. 25: ‘Eat Your Art Out’ Flora St. ATTPAC.org. n Every Wednesday: THRIVE Arlington Museum of Art’s biggest and most Resource Center’s THRIVE Wednesday Support delicious fundraiser of the year helps the museum n March 3-4: ‘Wood/Shop’ Group for LGBTQ adults 50 and older meets from present world class exhibitions from 7-9 p.m. Bruce Wood Dance presents new works by 11 a.m.-12:15 p.m. at Resource Center Community at Arlington Museum of Art, 201 W. Main St., company dancers at 7 p.m. at the Bruce Wood Center, 5750 Cedar Springs Road and is led by Arlington. Info and tickets at ArlingtonMuseum.org. Dance Studio. Tickets at EventBrite.com. interns from the SMU counseling program. For more information on the support group n Feb. 25: Disco vs. Retro n March 2-12: ‘Silver Foxes’ and how to join, please send an email to Panoptikon hosts Disco vs. Retro: Best of ’70s Uptown Players presents a premiere by Golden THRIVE@myresourcecenter.org. disco and ’80s Retro New Wavem, at 9 p.m. at Girls writers James Berg and Stan Zimmerman Sons of Hermann Hall, 3414 Elm St. Featuring Lord about three older queer men who save their best Byron on deck, Evil M at the door and DVR go-go FEBRUARY with Melissa Meaow. For 21 and up; $10 admission. friend from his facility. Presented on the Theatre Three stage. UptownPlayers.org. n Feb. 24: Dallas LGBTQ Global Symposium World Affairs Council of Dallas and Fort Worth n Feb. 26: ICON Birthday Bash n March 4-12: ‘Beautiful’ presents the Dallas LGBTQ Global Symposium on Iconic drag performer Tash Kohl hosts ICON The Carole King musical at Casa Mañana, 3101 W. equality and human rights from 8 a.m.-3 p.m. at Birthday Bash at 6 p.m. at The Rose Room Lancaster Ave., Fort Worth. CasaManana.org. Crum Auditorium, Southern Methodist University. inside S4, 3911 Cedar Springs. Show features Cassie Nova, Dina Jacobs, Chevelle Brooks and n March 5: Fly Queens Drag Brunch n Feb. 24: ‘Drag Race’ viewing party Bubbalicious. Tickets are $25-$35. Mesa Mezcal presents The Fly Queens Macarena and Pinche host a weekly viewing party hosted by Liquor Mini from 1-3 p.m. at for season 15 of RuPaul’s Drag Race each Friday n Feb. 26: Classic Chassis Mesa Mezcal, 400 W. Las Colinas Blvd., from 7-9 p.m. at The Round-Up Saloon, 3912 Cedar Classic Chassis Car Club lunch, social and The Irving. Reservations on Open Table. Springs Road. Visit the Facebook event page for Shop tour. Drive your classic to spend some time details. outdoors socializing. Then head upstairs for lunch n Through March 5: Kitchen Dog at the Derby restaurant before a tour of the facility. Theater: ‘Man Cave’ n Feb. 24: Another Badu Birthday Bash Derby/The Shop, 9100 John Carpenter Freeway. This regional premiere is a political thriller by Erykah Badu’s Another Badu Birthday Bash at 8:30 queer playwright John J. Caswell Jr. that centers p.m. at The Factory in Deep Ellum, 2713 Canton St. Tickets at axs.com. n Through Feb. 26: ‘Native Gardens’ You can’t choose your neighbors in this Adore Delano brings her Party Your World to contemporary comedy where cultures and gardens The Kessler in Oak Cliff Thursday, March 2. 02.24.23 █ dallasvoice 21
Cassie Nova ASK A DRAG QUEEN From peeing outside to weighted blankets — what’s on Cassie’s mind this week Hey y’all. I have no idea what to write about this week … I am just sitting here waiting for inspiration. I am so sick of all of the usual topics: Politics, weather, the Super Bowl — meh. I usually write about whatever is going on in my life, but it’s been pretty boring lately. I do have fami- ly dealing with some major health issues, but I’m not ready to tackle that subject. I feel like I am on the cusp of some- thing major happening soon, so I should enjoy the boring days to the fullest. By the way, my idea of a boring day is kind of awesome. If I can go the full day and never have to put on pants or leave the house, I consider that a win. It gives me nothing good to write about, but I take my recharging seriously. Here is a random fact about me: I pee outside about half of the time when I am my bed. just barely. It didn’t hang over the edg- I guess I shoulda called this another at home. My husband thinks it’s weird, Picture it: a California King-size bed, es by very much, and that bothered the installment of Cassie Nova’s Word Vom- but I don’t care. My backyard is pretty dark-painted walls that make the room both of us. it. From peeing to water consumption to secluded so if I take the dogs potty, I go feel like a cave, a window AC unit going So, he went searching and found the my supabedroom — this one got weird. too. We pee as a family. (mostly for the chill but also for the white biggest one that he could find. It was Sorry, not sorry. Y’all know by now how Not to mention that I havta pee so noise it creates) and our new king-sized, 45 pounds and hung over the sides by a my brain wor — Oh look! Something freaking much! I bought one of those 45-pound, weighted blanket that I got for good six inches. shinny! huge jugs to drink water out of that has Christmas. Jamie tosses around so much in his Remember to always love more, bitch the hours of the day on the side. It is It has created the perfect storm of com- sleep that the dogs get annoyed with him less and be fabulous! XOXO, Cassie supposed to help you keep track of how fort. and eventually migrate to be up against Nova much water you drink in a day. The goal I received a 15-20-pound, twin-sized me — a true doggie pile. Since we got the is to drink the entire thing throughout weighted blanket a few years ago for new heavy-ass blanket, though, he bare- the day, so you get your full 15 cups of water (15.5 cups are the recommended Christmas, and I loved it — except for the fact that when you pulled it up around ly moves. He seems to be sleeping better. I know I do. It’s like the blanket holds this week’s solution intake for a man). you, you would hear threads snap, and you down and hugs you the entire night. Now, I wanna be healthy and stay hy- within a few weeks, all of the little glass Plus, our little Chihuahua, Toby, who drated, but that is too much water for beads — or sand or whatever they use to has to sleep under the covers or else no me! I have to pee every 30 to 45 minutes make it weighted — eventually migrate one sleeps, is getting a workout. You trying to drink that much water. Then into the other segments, making the should see him wiggle and fight to get on show nights — well, do you know blanket wapsided. into his spot. And Toby needs all the how hard it is to go pee once you are in I was constantly trying to get Jamie to exercise he can get! His little no-neck- drag and fully padded? It ain’t easy. Not try the weighted blanket, but he runs hot havin’ ass — he looks like that guy Ed to mention how crazy your flow can be and feared it would be uncomfortable from 90 Day Fiancé. after tucking! Some days I pull it out, and overheat him. He is constantly reg- I am hoping that Jamie continues to and it shoots into two or three separate ulating his body temperature during the love it when we get into the summer streams, looking like a scene from Ghost- night by uncovering his feet and recov- months. Whatever they use inside the busters. Maybe my tuckers are too tight ering them. blanket keeps it from retaining too much …. I asked for a king-sized weighted heat, so I am hopeful. Not to mention Next subject: I have made my bed blanked for Christmas and Jamie, being that our bedroom can feel like a walk- too comfortable. I hear it calling to me the wonderful husband that he is, got us in freezer at times, so as long as I keep it during the day, and I fantasize about it the nicest one he could find. It came with chilly, we should be fine. █ browse █ submit when I am at work. Sometimes, when a lovely cover and was 35 pounds. He (I had no idea that this would turn into For a more complete Community To submit an item for inclusion in some rando is talking to me at the club, actually loved it, except that it wasn’t big an infomercial for a weighted blanket, Calendar online, visit the Community Calendar, visit I zone out and go to my happy place — enough. It covered a king size bed — but but here we are.) Tinyurl.com/dvevents. Tinyurl.com/dvevents. 22 dallasvoice.com █ 02.24.23
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